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Psy-Changeling #14
Shards of Hope
The “smoldering heat, epic romance, and awesome action”* of Nalini Singh’s New York Times bestselling series continues as two Arrows find themselves caught in a chilling conspiracy that spans all three races…
Awakening wounded in a darkened cell, their psychic abilities blocked, Aden and Zaira know they must escape. But when the lethal soldiers break free from their mysterious prison, they find themselves in a harsh, inhospitable landscape far from civilization. Their only hope for survival is to make it to the hidden home of a predatory changeling pack that doesn’t welcome outsiders.
And they must survive. A shadowy enemy has put a target on the back of the Arrow squad, an enemy that cannot be permitted to succeed in its deadly campaign. Aden will cross any line to keep his people safe for this new future, where even an assassin might have hope of a life beyond blood and death and pain. Zaira has no such hope. She knows she’s too damaged to return from the abyss. Her driving goal is to protect Aden, protect the only person who has ever come back for her no matter what. This time, even Aden’s passionate determination may not be enough—because the emotionless chill of Silence existed for a reason. For the violent, and the insane, and the irreparably broken…like Zaira.
*Jaci Burton, New York Times bestselling author
Awakening wounded in a darkened cell, their psychic abilities blocked, Aden and Zaira know they must escape. But when the lethal soldiers break free from their mysterious prison, they find themselves in a harsh, inhospitable landscape far from civilization. Their only hope for survival is to make it to the hidden home of a predatory changeling pack that doesn’t welcome outsiders.
And they must survive. A shadowy enemy has put a target on the back of the Arrow squad, an enemy that cannot be permitted to succeed in its deadly campaign. Aden will cross any line to keep his people safe for this new future, where even an assassin might have hope of a life beyond blood and death and pain. Zaira has no such hope. She knows she’s too damaged to return from the abyss. Her driving goal is to protect Aden, protect the only person who has ever come back for her no matter what. This time, even Aden’s passionate determination may not be enough—because the emotionless chill of Silence existed for a reason. For the violent, and the insane, and the irreparably broken…like Zaira.
*Jaci Burton, New York Times bestselling author
484 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 2, 2015
469 people are currently reading
6182 people want to read
About the author
Nalini Singh
239 books26.6k followersI've been writing as long as I can remember and all of my stories always held a thread of romance (even when I was writing about a prince who could shoot lasers out of his eyes). I love creating unique characters, love giving them happy endings and I even love the voices in my head. There's no other job I would rather be doing. In September 2002, when I got the call that Silhouette Desire wanted to buy my first book, Desert Warrior, it was a dream come true. I hope to continue living the dream until I keel over of old age on my keyboard.
I was born in Fiji and raised in New Zealand. I also spent three years living and working in Japan, during which time I took the chance to travel around Asia. I’m back in New Zealand now, but I’m always plotting new trips. If you’d like to see some of my travel snapshots, have a look at the Travel Diary page (updated every month).
So far, I've worked as a lawyer, a librarian, a candy factory general hand, a bank temp and an English teacher and not necessarily in that order. Some might call that inconsistency but I call it grist for the writer's mill.
I was born in Fiji and raised in New Zealand. I also spent three years living and working in Japan, during which time I took the chance to travel around Asia. I’m back in New Zealand now, but I’m always plotting new trips. If you’d like to see some of my travel snapshots, have a look at the Travel Diary page (updated every month).
So far, I've worked as a lawyer, a librarian, a candy factory general hand, a bank temp and an English teacher and not necessarily in that order. Some might call that inconsistency but I call it grist for the writer's mill.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,521 reviews
June 20, 2015
Edit: 06/20/2015
4,5 stars
I read several times Nalini saying how she always had a plan; how she knew where story is going from the start.
It was never more obvious than here.
In Shards of Hope, the longest Psy/Changeling book to date, every thread woven, every character introduced, every alliance made and bridge mended through course of series comes together perfectly to round a story about a society emerging into new era.
Shards is happening only four months after Kaleb made a big announcement and it's primarily focused on Arrows. Through their leader, Aden Kai, Arrows are now having a seat in Council, newly formed ruling body. But,everyone is still adjusting to the fact that emotions are not forbidden for Psy anymore and the deadliest of them who are assigned to Arrows even more so. It's a precarious time and a mysterious enemy is using that to bring disruption. That makes Aden a target.
Shards of Hope is brilliantly executed book- it has that perfect bland of engaging plot and great romance that makes Nalini Singh one of authors you can always count on to deliver.
There is a lot of things happening. This story made me think how, after so many books behind us and so many characters introduced getting to hold all those threads together AND tell a romance in the process has to be getting harder. In a way this is decisive of how much you will enjoy this novel- it's heavy on world-building and events, but romance is very simple and easy. I always loved whole Silence arc and bigger story, so this one worked for me perfectly.
One of the things I keep reminding myself with this series is that we, readers only got to know the best an most powerful Psy characters. Their Silence was perfect (or they faked it perfectly), their powers are off the chart and so on...but there is a bigger chunk of Psy people who are less than perfect and Fall of Silence had to hit them hard. It's entirely new way of thinking- emotional connections are encouraged whereas they were forbidden on reasons it causes insanity. So, yes, Psy need to rebuild their institutions and those who are the most powerful have to step in. This is why our characters can't seem to catch a break in this novel.
This is also why you are going to see everyone. Seriously- everyone. :) Beside usual suspects, new Changeling Packs are getting some page time including BlackEdge and RainFire packs and even reclusive BlackSea.
Fan Service- she gave us something that made me positively giddy. :)
My favorite scene is scene were Aden's power is revealed.
...I had goosebumps reading it. :)
I loved Zaira.
Zaira is everything.Fierce, protective and a truly badass character. :) Definitely one of the best female characters she's written.
Whole romance was rather enjoyable to read, because it's straighforward and (mostly) conlict-free which worked for me since a lot of thing was happening around them. Aden with his calm and understanding nature and cool demeanor contrasted well to Zaira's passionate and possessive personality.
I really appreciate the fact that culmination built for 11 books (Fall of Silence) wasn't deus ex machina and simply swept under a rug once we finished Heart of Obsidian. It is a huge change for Psy race and it creates a ripple on entire socioeconomic structure of the world so I am glad Nalini made a point to show us that. With some important questions answered I would say that Shards of Hope completes trio of books focused on break from Silence and opens a new chapter in series. :)
By laws of logic and probability, next book should have changeling character and Nalini teased several options, so I have high hopes! :) (ETA: in latest Q&A, Nalini revealed that next book will be ensemble cast.)
*ARC provided from author. No compensation was provided and all opinions are strictly my own.
4,5 stars
I read several times Nalini saying how she always had a plan; how she knew where story is going from the start.
It was never more obvious than here.
In Shards of Hope, the longest Psy/Changeling book to date, every thread woven, every character introduced, every alliance made and bridge mended through course of series comes together perfectly to round a story about a society emerging into new era.
Shards is happening only four months after Kaleb made a big announcement and it's primarily focused on Arrows. Through their leader, Aden Kai, Arrows are now having a seat in Council, newly formed ruling body. But,everyone is still adjusting to the fact that emotions are not forbidden for Psy anymore and the deadliest of them who are assigned to Arrows even more so. It's a precarious time and a mysterious enemy is using that to bring disruption. That makes Aden a target.
Shards of Hope is brilliantly executed book- it has that perfect bland of engaging plot and great romance that makes Nalini Singh one of authors you can always count on to deliver.
There is a lot of things happening. This story made me think how, after so many books behind us and so many characters introduced getting to hold all those threads together AND tell a romance in the process has to be getting harder. In a way this is decisive of how much you will enjoy this novel- it's heavy on world-building and events, but romance is very simple and easy. I always loved whole Silence arc and bigger story, so this one worked for me perfectly.
One of the things I keep reminding myself with this series is that we, readers only got to know the best an most powerful Psy characters. Their Silence was perfect (or they faked it perfectly), their powers are off the chart and so on...but there is a bigger chunk of Psy people who are less than perfect and Fall of Silence had to hit them hard. It's entirely new way of thinking- emotional connections are encouraged whereas they were forbidden on reasons it causes insanity. So, yes, Psy need to rebuild their institutions and those who are the most powerful have to step in. This is why our characters can't seem to catch a break in this novel.
This is also why you are going to see everyone. Seriously- everyone. :) Beside usual suspects, new Changeling Packs are getting some page time including BlackEdge and RainFire packs and even reclusive BlackSea.
Fan Service- she gave us something that made me positively giddy. :)
My favorite scene is scene were Aden's power is revealed.
...I had goosebumps reading it. :)
I loved Zaira.
Zaira is everything.Fierce, protective and a truly badass character. :) Definitely one of the best female characters she's written.
Whole romance was rather enjoyable to read, because it's straighforward and (mostly) conlict-free which worked for me since a lot of thing was happening around them. Aden with his calm and understanding nature and cool demeanor contrasted well to Zaira's passionate and possessive personality.
I really appreciate the fact that culmination built for 11 books (Fall of Silence) wasn't deus ex machina and simply swept under a rug once we finished Heart of Obsidian. It is a huge change for Psy race and it creates a ripple on entire socioeconomic structure of the world so I am glad Nalini made a point to show us that. With some important questions answered I would say that Shards of Hope completes trio of books focused on break from Silence and opens a new chapter in series. :)
By laws of logic and probability, next book should have changeling character and Nalini teased several options, so I have high hopes! :) (ETA: in latest Q&A, Nalini revealed that next book will be ensemble cast.)
*ARC provided from author. No compensation was provided and all opinions are strictly my own.
December 31, 2017
I liked this book but it didn't wow me. I tend to find most psy/psy couples boring as psy don't show a lot of personality they tend to fall flat. However I didn't find Zaira flat. Nope she was bat shit crazy. Just sayin'! I liked her but every time she talk about her rage monster I'd have flashes of the movie anger management were Nate was yelling "The anger sharks are swimming in my head!" lol. I also really liked Aden so a good 4 star read for me. I still think Ming is lame as shit.
June 29, 2015
4 Stars
So I'm gonna start this off with a story...
...A story about a conversation that many of us readers can probably relate to....
As many of us do, I read all kinds of random shit - vampires, werewolves, gay orc lords, fairies, bdsm, high school teenie bopper love - whatever, bring it on.
And my husband knows this.
And usually teases me about it all quite mercilessly.
Thus, everyday when he asks his daily questions of husbandly interest - "What are you reading? Is it good?" - My usual response is, "Oh,you know, just a book, it's fine."
But last night - for whatever reason - when he got home early from work, came over to me to give me a kiss hello and asked his usual stuff, instead of my usual answer, this is what happened...
(edited a bit to not include too many spoilers)
"Oh my God, it was just awesome right now!!!! Everyone in the PsyNet thought Aden had only mid-level powers on the gradient, but then he just totally did [this] and [this] and [this] and showed them all what a total badass he really is with his super psychic powers and now the PsyBeacon Livestream is totally blowing up with how bitchin' the Arrow Squad really is, isn't that awesome?"
I'm sure I had an expression similar to this one in tandem with this awesome display of verbal diarrhea:
And his response?
*
*
*
*
*
"Wow...
Well, I have no idea what any of that means...But you're cute, babe."
*pats my head*
So there's that. LOLZ
But anyway, epic geek-out aside, about this book...
Nalini Singh is one of my all time favorite authors.
Her writing skills are flawless, her world building skills are ridiculous, and her plots are exciting.
Shards of Hope was no different.
Seriously though, the world she has built in this series is just so unique, original, and dynamic - I love it.
In this installment, Aden finally gets his book and we finally get to witness all the things alluded to in previous books.
Also, building upon Vasic and Ivy's story, we get a more in depth look at the Arrows and their community as a whole.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book.
Aden is truly a character you will always root for. He is just a great, honorable man who wants the best for his Arrow family and society at large.
There were so many awesome, meaningful moments in this book that I can't even begin to do them justice.
So why not 5 stars you say?
In a bit of "it's not you, it's me" fashion, I had trouble connecting to Zaira at first.
I'm not sure if it was because my reading times were more disjointed at first than usual due to RL stuff or if I was just slow to warm up to her in general, but it is what it is.
I have mentioned in reviews for previous books in the series that I have trouble getting engaged with character pairings that don't include a Changeling (I just find them to be the most exciting, #sorrynotsorry) and I think perhaps that might have been the case here initially.
We do get to touch base with a LOT of our favorite characters, e.g., Judd, Kaleb/Sahara, Aden/Ivy, Lucas/Sascha, and my personal favorite, Hawke/Sienna...BUT those "cameos" felt like more of a tease to me...because I just prefer to hang out with the Changelings, if I'm honest.
But anyway!
This book ended with SO much potential for future awesomeness.
I am hoping we get a RainTree book next - their alpha Remi was scrumptious - and I would love a possible BleackSea book...that could be really awesome...or potentially super creepy since they live in the water and might be sharks and/or jellyfish, but whatevs!
If anyone can make that work, Singh can.
Looking forward to the next installment.
***ARC generously provided by author and Berkley Publishing***
So I'm gonna start this off with a story...
...A story about a conversation that many of us readers can probably relate to....
As many of us do, I read all kinds of random shit - vampires, werewolves, gay orc lords, fairies, bdsm, high school teenie bopper love - whatever, bring it on.
And my husband knows this.
And usually teases me about it all quite mercilessly.
Thus, everyday when he asks his daily questions of husbandly interest - "What are you reading? Is it good?" - My usual response is, "Oh,you know, just a book, it's fine."
But last night - for whatever reason - when he got home early from work, came over to me to give me a kiss hello and asked his usual stuff, instead of my usual answer, this is what happened...
(edited a bit to not include too many spoilers)
"Oh my God, it was just awesome right now!!!! Everyone in the PsyNet thought Aden had only mid-level powers on the gradient, but then he just totally did [this] and [this] and [this] and showed them all what a total badass he really is with his super psychic powers and now the PsyBeacon Livestream is totally blowing up with how bitchin' the Arrow Squad really is, isn't that awesome?"
I'm sure I had an expression similar to this one in tandem with this awesome display of verbal diarrhea:
And his response?
*
*
*
*
*
"Wow...
Well, I have no idea what any of that means...But you're cute, babe."
*pats my head*
So there's that. LOLZ
But anyway, epic geek-out aside, about this book...
Nalini Singh is one of my all time favorite authors.
Her writing skills are flawless, her world building skills are ridiculous, and her plots are exciting.
Shards of Hope was no different.
Seriously though, the world she has built in this series is just so unique, original, and dynamic - I love it.
In this installment, Aden finally gets his book and we finally get to witness all the things alluded to in previous books.
Also, building upon Vasic and Ivy's story, we get a more in depth look at the Arrows and their community as a whole.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book.
Aden is truly a character you will always root for. He is just a great, honorable man who wants the best for his Arrow family and society at large.
There were so many awesome, meaningful moments in this book that I can't even begin to do them justice.
So why not 5 stars you say?
In a bit of "it's not you, it's me" fashion, I had trouble connecting to Zaira at first.
I'm not sure if it was because my reading times were more disjointed at first than usual due to RL stuff or if I was just slow to warm up to her in general, but it is what it is.
I have mentioned in reviews for previous books in the series that I have trouble getting engaged with character pairings that don't include a Changeling (I just find them to be the most exciting, #sorrynotsorry) and I think perhaps that might have been the case here initially.
We do get to touch base with a LOT of our favorite characters, e.g., Judd, Kaleb/Sahara, Aden/Ivy, Lucas/Sascha, and my personal favorite, Hawke/Sienna...BUT those "cameos" felt like more of a tease to me...because I just prefer to hang out with the Changelings, if I'm honest.
But anyway!
This book ended with SO much potential for future awesomeness.
I am hoping we get a RainTree book next - their alpha Remi was scrumptious - and I would love a possible BleackSea book...that could be really awesome...or potentially super creepy since they live in the water and might be sharks and/or jellyfish, but whatevs!
If anyone can make that work, Singh can.
Looking forward to the next installment.
***ARC generously provided by author and Berkley Publishing***
July 19, 2016
"Why did he persist in believing himself Silent? He cared. Aden had always cared. It was the biggest open secret in the squad. It was why they all fought so furiously for him and with him. Because Aden came back for his people. He’d come back for her."
This is the perfect "in-between plots" book. There's a great couple that holds it together, we see all the favorite characters from previous books (but they are not overwhelming in appearances, just a hint for us to be happy XD), we are introduced to new characters and honestly I'm already looking forward to reading their books. There are new bad guys and it's all so mysterious it makes me want to keep reading. And that's the point of it all, right?
Even after 14 books, this series hasn't lost it's edge, in fact, it's just getting better and better with each new book.
So, to fans of this series - you won't be disappointed!
Aden
“All my life,” he said, taking the first step, “I’ve done what was best for the squad. I’ve never resented it, never wished I’d been born in another time or place.” This was his time and he was right where he was meant to be. “But now, I have a moment when I can simply be Aden and there is no one I’d rather be with in this moment than you.”
I loved him! He was just perfect. I'm weak for those silent controlled Psy men and he really was one. His new friendship with Remi is so great, I loved how he considers himself an alpha of the Arrows (which he essentially is).
But most of all, I love how he never gives up on anyone, he is loyal to the bone. Perfect hero.
Zaira
“If you’re mad, then I will walk with you into the darkness,” Aden said, his grip tightening on the side of her face. “Don’t you choose to leave me, Zaira. Don’t you do that.”
She is one uber-kickass heroine, I loved that about her!! She's tough and competent and well, an Arrow, so that should tell you something.
My favorite scene was
I did have a problem with her and that's why I'm giving it 4 stars, it really bugged me.
Except for that, she was pretty great. Oh yes sorry for another spoiler but my second favorite scene was when she
Other characters
Little kid shifters. I swear I melt every time one appears in a book and I loved it here.
Little kid Arrows. I wanted to hug them all!!!!!!
Remi *.* His book can't come soon enough, though it's probably too early for him. Still. Mucho potential!!!!
Sea-changelings. They are still so mysterious, I don't know what to think of them. But Miane seems great!
Anthony & Nikita. They need a book! Or a novella. A really, really long novella.
Book 15 is next and I can't begin to guess who it will be about. I'm just happy with how this one ended and what it brought to the Psy/Changeling world :))))))
*ARC provided by author & publisher via Netgalley*
*I will compare and edit my quotes accordingly to the retail version of the book*
June 10, 2015
4 1/2 Stars!
I loved this book but it was also a bittersweet read for me.
REVIEW TO COME SOON!
March 1, 2015 Orginal Post
WooHoo!!!
Just got home from the trip of a lifetime and discovered a fantastic surprise in my mailbox—an ARC from my favorite author for the 14th book in her Psy-Changeling series, SHARDS OF HOPE.
I can't wait to read Aden and Zaira's story.
I LOVE THIS SERIES!
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review
I loved this book but it was also a bittersweet read for me.
REVIEW TO COME SOON!
March 1, 2015 Orginal Post
WooHoo!!!
Just got home from the trip of a lifetime and discovered a fantastic surprise in my mailbox—an ARC from my favorite author for the 14th book in her Psy-Changeling series, SHARDS OF HOPE.
I can't wait to read Aden and Zaira's story.
I LOVE THIS SERIES!
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review
June 4, 2015
Spoilers
This was disappointing. I was expecting Aden's story to be great after all the build up he and the Arrows got, but I was mostly bored by him and his relationship with Zaira/the Arrows. It didn't help that the story and the dynamics between characters were very similar to the last few books in the series, there was nothing new or exciting or interesting about any of it.
Liked:
-The secondary characters were fun to read about, especially Nikita, Anthony, Kaleb, and Sienna.
-It was easy to immerse into the psy-changeling world again and enjoy all the different elements of it.
-The introduction of the RainFire pack, loved the idea of a fairly new pack/alpha trying to establish themselves.
-The floating cities of the water changelings, they sounded pretty amazing.
-The psy/humans/changelings developing alliances and relationships with each other.
-Loved Beatrice's character, even though she had a relatively small role she still managed to have more depth and nuance than Zaira. I hope she crops up again in future books.
Plot summary:
Zaira: Oh noes, we've been kidnapped. I'm small and curvy but oh so dangerous. Also, I have a dark past which means I can't have a normal life.
Aden: Let's escape. I'm good and honourable and kind and modest.
Bad guys: Lets kidnap children and drug people and try to kill Aden and his Arrows. How else can we take over the world?
Zaira: I lurve Aden, I lurve him so much. I lurve, lurve, lurve him. I have a dark past, I deserve no-one, I can't be normal. OMG, I wonder who kidnapped us. Do they know I have a dark past?
Aden: Children are the future, we must protect them. Good guys are good, bad buys are bad. I lurve Zaira, she so small and curvy and deadly, it turn me on. Must remember to find bad guys.
Zaira: I am rage monster, stay away from me!! My dark past haunts me and controls me etc, etc. Children are small and innocent, what I do with them?
Aden: The Arrows are my family, and children are children who need protecting. Hope, faith, love.
Zaira: I hate anybody who hurts children. I'm also evil but I lurve Aden and also the children and innocents but that don't mean I good. My dark past haunts me.
Aden: Hope, faith, love. That's all you need Zaira. Family, children, home, protect, good guys, hope, faith, love, children, innocents.
Zaira: I have a rage monster, my dark past haunts me! I kiss Aden but can't be with him. I kiss him again.
Aden: Zaira so powerful and sexy. Hope, faith, love. I have patience.
Zaira: I cannot be helped. My dark past haunts me! Nobody hurts children or I kill them.
Aden: Children need protecting, they also need family, hope, faith and love. I lurve Zaira.
Zaira: My dark past haunts me. I have a rage monster. I want Adrian but my dark past haunts the me. I kiss him?
Aden: Hope, faith, love, family, children, home, kebabs. I lurve Zaira.
Zaira: My dark past haunts me. But hope, faith, love, family, children also haunting the me now. That mean I good.
Aden: Hope, faith, love.
Zaira. Yes Aden, you be right. Hope, faith, love. My dark past no longer haunting the me because of the hope, the faith and the love.
Bad guys: Let be planning for world domination, just because. Hee hee, we so evil.
The end.
Disliked:
-The plot didn't click with me at all. Aden and Zaira were targeted by some mysterious shadowy bad guys, and then there was a bunch of other craziness going on with someone trying to create dissension between the different races. So Aden and Zaira ran around trying to figure out what was going on and who was behind all the chaos, all whilst getting angsty and sexy with each other.
-I DESPISED Zaira, she irritated me so much. No other heroine in the series so far has annoyed me as much as her. She was a one note character with no shades of grey, she kept having the same internal struggle and kept saying and doing the same thing over and over and over again. Ugh, I felt like punching her.
-Aden was nowhere near as good a main character as I thought he'd be. He was so much more interesting and charismatic as a secondary character, his romance with Zaira sucked all the life out of him, he was just so boring. Also, not once did I believe in his feelings for Zaira, it all seemed so fake, forced and unconvincing.
-I was so sick of Zaira banging on about her rage, her monster, her darkness, her aloneness, her awfulness, her twisted rage, her traumatic childhood, her worthlessness, and how damaged, broken, scarred and insane she was. Boo fucking hoo. That was all she thought about and talked about, there was nothing else to her - well, except for her unhealthy obsession with Aden. I needed less angsty, repetitive monologuing and more character development and growth.
-I hated how Zaira kept going back and forth about her relationship with Aden, she couldn't make a decision and stick to it, she kept running away. I didn't care about her inner pain or the monster inside her or all the crap she'd been through. The more she bought up her tortured past, the less I cared about her. She didn't read like a fully fleshed character, she had no depth or nuance, she was just a bunch of tragedies. It didn't help that she literally had no-one in her life except for Aden, even that guy who imprinted on her was nothing but a background thought. She was just a flat character whose world revolved around Aden. At least Aden had his squad, Vasic, Ivy, and Walker to flesh him out, Zaira had no-one. A heroine needs more than a love interest and a dark past to be interesting and nuanced.
-Zaira's obsession with Aden was beyond pathetic and embarrassing. Her jealousy and possessiveness for him wasn't endearing, it was fucked up. Aden should have run a mile from her craziness.
-The way Zaira treated Aden pissed me off, for someone who was that desperately in love she sure treated him like crap. He was patient and supportive of her but all she did was string him along and play hot and cold. I don't know why Aden put up with her wishy washy attitude, she really didn't deserve it.
-Zaira banging on about her rage monster was beyond irritating, she literally wouldn't shut up about it. The silly cow thought she was insane because she killed her evil, abusive parents, and for some reason she thought that meant she was evil just like them (despite only ever hurting people who deserved it). She conveniently seemed to forget how protective she was of children, innocents and the vulnerable, and that she would do anything to help and save them. I can't stand characters who berate and hate themselves about 'bad' things they've done (which are actually reasonable and understandable things) whilst forgetting all the many good and martyr-ish things they've done. The lack of perspective and logic in characters like that is so frustrating to read.
-Didn't enjoy the mystery of who was after Aden/Zaira/the Arrows and who was trying to cause dissension between the major psy/changeling/human groups. It took too long to find out what was going on and even then it was kept a mystery just to drag things out. And the whole evil Consortium group trying to take over the world at the end was so corny and generic, I couldn't care less about them or their cheesy taking over the world plans.
-I was sick of the psy and the Arrows, their relationships, dynamics, and whole set up was dull to read about. I used to think they were different and interesting but they've become more and more boring with each book.
-Took way too long to find out what Aden's powers were, by the time they were revealed I no longer cared.
-The children, the bloody children. So cute, so precocious, so innocent, so vulnerable, so ugh. Every other page someone was banging about kids and what little miracles they were and how they were every good guys weakness and how they needed love and protection. Give me a fucking break.
The amount of times various characters mentioned the miracle of children and how oh so precious and innocent they were was ridiculous. It almost started to sound preachy. It was cheap and lazy how the child characters were used to show how the good guys were good and the bad guys were bad, it was so heavy handed. Ugh.
-Every action and thought and conversation a character had/did was analysed to the extreme. Nothing was left to the readers imagination. If Aden was angry at some bad guy, his entire thought process and the feeling behind his anger was explained in minute detail as if we we're too dumb to figure it out ourselves. And if Zaira was pushing Aden away, she monologued or talked about why she was doing exactly what she was doing, despite it being obvious or already being explained a thousand times before. There was so much telling and not enough showing, and no room for imagination or interpretation.
Overall, I wasn't impressed with Aden or Zaira or their relationship, they didn't entertain me in any way. Hopefully, the next couple will be more exciting and engrossing than boring Aden/Zaira.
This was disappointing. I was expecting Aden's story to be great after all the build up he and the Arrows got, but I was mostly bored by him and his relationship with Zaira/the Arrows. It didn't help that the story and the dynamics between characters were very similar to the last few books in the series, there was nothing new or exciting or interesting about any of it.
Liked:
-The secondary characters were fun to read about, especially Nikita, Anthony, Kaleb, and Sienna.
-It was easy to immerse into the psy-changeling world again and enjoy all the different elements of it.
-The introduction of the RainFire pack, loved the idea of a fairly new pack/alpha trying to establish themselves.
-The floating cities of the water changelings, they sounded pretty amazing.
-The psy/humans/changelings developing alliances and relationships with each other.
-Loved Beatrice's character, even though she had a relatively small role she still managed to have more depth and nuance than Zaira. I hope she crops up again in future books.
Plot summary:
Zaira: Oh noes, we've been kidnapped. I'm small and curvy but oh so dangerous. Also, I have a dark past which means I can't have a normal life.
Aden: Let's escape. I'm good and honourable and kind and modest.
Bad guys: Lets kidnap children and drug people and try to kill Aden and his Arrows. How else can we take over the world?
Zaira: I lurve Aden, I lurve him so much. I lurve, lurve, lurve him. I have a dark past, I deserve no-one, I can't be normal. OMG, I wonder who kidnapped us. Do they know I have a dark past?
Aden: Children are the future, we must protect them. Good guys are good, bad buys are bad. I lurve Zaira, she so small and curvy and deadly, it turn me on. Must remember to find bad guys.
Zaira: I am rage monster, stay away from me!! My dark past haunts me and controls me etc, etc. Children are small and innocent, what I do with them?
Aden: The Arrows are my family, and children are children who need protecting. Hope, faith, love.
Zaira: I hate anybody who hurts children. I'm also evil but I lurve Aden and also the children and innocents but that don't mean I good. My dark past haunts me.
Aden: Hope, faith, love. That's all you need Zaira. Family, children, home, protect, good guys, hope, faith, love, children, innocents.
Zaira: I have a rage monster, my dark past haunts me! I kiss Aden but can't be with him. I kiss him again.
Aden: Zaira so powerful and sexy. Hope, faith, love. I have patience.
Zaira: I cannot be helped. My dark past haunts me! Nobody hurts children or I kill them.
Aden: Children need protecting, they also need family, hope, faith and love. I lurve Zaira.
Zaira: My dark past haunts me. I have a rage monster. I want Adrian but my dark past haunts the me. I kiss him?
Aden: Hope, faith, love, family, children, home, kebabs. I lurve Zaira.
Zaira: My dark past haunts me. But hope, faith, love, family, children also haunting the me now. That mean I good.
Aden: Hope, faith, love.
Zaira. Yes Aden, you be right. Hope, faith, love. My dark past no longer haunting the me because of the hope, the faith and the love.
Bad guys: Let be planning for world domination, just because. Hee hee, we so evil.
The end.
Disliked:
-The plot didn't click with me at all. Aden and Zaira were targeted by some mysterious shadowy bad guys, and then there was a bunch of other craziness going on with someone trying to create dissension between the different races. So Aden and Zaira ran around trying to figure out what was going on and who was behind all the chaos, all whilst getting angsty and sexy with each other.
-I DESPISED Zaira, she irritated me so much. No other heroine in the series so far has annoyed me as much as her. She was a one note character with no shades of grey, she kept having the same internal struggle and kept saying and doing the same thing over and over and over again. Ugh, I felt like punching her.
-Aden was nowhere near as good a main character as I thought he'd be. He was so much more interesting and charismatic as a secondary character, his romance with Zaira sucked all the life out of him, he was just so boring. Also, not once did I believe in his feelings for Zaira, it all seemed so fake, forced and unconvincing.
-I was so sick of Zaira banging on about her rage, her monster, her darkness, her aloneness, her awfulness, her twisted rage, her traumatic childhood, her worthlessness, and how damaged, broken, scarred and insane she was. Boo fucking hoo. That was all she thought about and talked about, there was nothing else to her - well, except for her unhealthy obsession with Aden. I needed less angsty, repetitive monologuing and more character development and growth.
-I hated how Zaira kept going back and forth about her relationship with Aden, she couldn't make a decision and stick to it, she kept running away. I didn't care about her inner pain or the monster inside her or all the crap she'd been through. The more she bought up her tortured past, the less I cared about her. She didn't read like a fully fleshed character, she had no depth or nuance, she was just a bunch of tragedies. It didn't help that she literally had no-one in her life except for Aden, even that guy who imprinted on her was nothing but a background thought. She was just a flat character whose world revolved around Aden. At least Aden had his squad, Vasic, Ivy, and Walker to flesh him out, Zaira had no-one. A heroine needs more than a love interest and a dark past to be interesting and nuanced.
-Zaira's obsession with Aden was beyond pathetic and embarrassing. Her jealousy and possessiveness for him wasn't endearing, it was fucked up. Aden should have run a mile from her craziness.
-The way Zaira treated Aden pissed me off, for someone who was that desperately in love she sure treated him like crap. He was patient and supportive of her but all she did was string him along and play hot and cold. I don't know why Aden put up with her wishy washy attitude, she really didn't deserve it.
-Zaira banging on about her rage monster was beyond irritating, she literally wouldn't shut up about it. The silly cow thought she was insane because she killed her evil, abusive parents, and for some reason she thought that meant she was evil just like them (despite only ever hurting people who deserved it). She conveniently seemed to forget how protective she was of children, innocents and the vulnerable, and that she would do anything to help and save them. I can't stand characters who berate and hate themselves about 'bad' things they've done (which are actually reasonable and understandable things) whilst forgetting all the many good and martyr-ish things they've done. The lack of perspective and logic in characters like that is so frustrating to read.
-Didn't enjoy the mystery of who was after Aden/Zaira/the Arrows and who was trying to cause dissension between the major psy/changeling/human groups. It took too long to find out what was going on and even then it was kept a mystery just to drag things out. And the whole evil Consortium group trying to take over the world at the end was so corny and generic, I couldn't care less about them or their cheesy taking over the world plans.
-I was sick of the psy and the Arrows, their relationships, dynamics, and whole set up was dull to read about. I used to think they were different and interesting but they've become more and more boring with each book.
-Took way too long to find out what Aden's powers were, by the time they were revealed I no longer cared.
-The children, the bloody children. So cute, so precocious, so innocent, so vulnerable, so ugh. Every other page someone was banging about kids and what little miracles they were and how they were every good guys weakness and how they needed love and protection. Give me a fucking break.
The amount of times various characters mentioned the miracle of children and how oh so precious and innocent they were was ridiculous. It almost started to sound preachy. It was cheap and lazy how the child characters were used to show how the good guys were good and the bad guys were bad, it was so heavy handed. Ugh.
-Every action and thought and conversation a character had/did was analysed to the extreme. Nothing was left to the readers imagination. If Aden was angry at some bad guy, his entire thought process and the feeling behind his anger was explained in minute detail as if we we're too dumb to figure it out ourselves. And if Zaira was pushing Aden away, she monologued or talked about why she was doing exactly what she was doing, despite it being obvious or already being explained a thousand times before. There was so much telling and not enough showing, and no room for imagination or interpretation.
Overall, I wasn't impressed with Aden or Zaira or their relationship, they didn't entertain me in any way. Hopefully, the next couple will be more exciting and engrossing than boring Aden/Zaira.
February 7, 2020
Aden (Psy) and Zaira (Psy) - Both Arrows
“If I take you,” she said, and it was a warning, “I’ll keep you. Always.”
Aden and Zaira have been kidnapped. They’re both injured with blocked Psy abilities and held in a compound. They will manage to escape and they will try to find out who took them and why.
Poor Zaira is so damaged beginning from her childhood when she killed her parents. Still she appears to be Silent. On the other hand Aden never really been Silent.
Although there is an understanding between them, it will take them a while to be developed to a romance.
Both are very likable characters and I totally enjoyed their lovestory.
Besides their lovestory, the main plot moves forward and the past characters make a cameo appearance.
“If I take you,” she said, and it was a warning, “I’ll keep you. Always.”
Aden and Zaira have been kidnapped. They’re both injured with blocked Psy abilities and held in a compound. They will manage to escape and they will try to find out who took them and why.
Poor Zaira is so damaged beginning from her childhood when she killed her parents. Still she appears to be Silent. On the other hand Aden never really been Silent.
Although there is an understanding between them, it will take them a while to be developed to a romance.
Both are very likable characters and I totally enjoyed their lovestory.
Besides their lovestory, the main plot moves forward and the past characters make a cameo appearance.
June 6, 2015
This book reminded me why the Psy-Changeling series is one of my absolute favorites. Nalini Singh accomplishes several things here. First and foremost, she creates a satisfying and emotional romance between the enigmatic Arrow leader Aden and his damaged fellow soldier Zaira. But she also sets up a fantastic new arc to carry the series forward, with a new mysterious villain; and she introduces a wealth of new characters who can create a fertile breeding ground for future stories. Pretty impressive.
I’ll get to the bigger picture stuff in a moment, but first I want to focus on the central romance. Aden is one of the last characters I have been waiting to see featured in the series and Singh did not disappoint me. There is so much more to him than we ever knew. What is interesting about him is that he has never been entirely what he seems. He’s never really been Silent. He’s never really been average. He just hides himself very, very well. I loved watching Singh unwrapping his layers. But perhaps the very best surprise of the book is the heroine, Zaira.
As the story begins, Aden and Zaira have been kidnapped. They’re both injured. Their Psy abilities are blocked. Someone is holding them in a compound, but even injured, Arrows will not be prey. They escape, but it takes some time before they can get back home –and through their trials, we see that there is already a very deep bond between these two. It’s not a romance yet, but they are bound by their past, their mutual trust and an emotion that neither has tried to name before now.
Zaira is so very damaged, even more so than the other Arrows, who endured abandonment and torture to make it where they are today. She was driven to kill her own parents as a child and has stuffed her anger, hurt and dysfunction so far down, she appears Silent. But deep inside, she knows how volatile she is. She considers herself a monster, unworthy to be Aden’s mate. He will never settle for anyone else, though. So we watch their tentative dance as they step toward one another, then she steps back. He steps forward and around it goes. Normally that would drive me crazy, but I believed in Zaira’s fear. Her monster is real and she loves Aden too much to destroy him.
I may have cried once or twice. Or maybe three times. It’s just that her wonder at his love is so bittersweet. Her realization of her worth through his eyes really touched me. I loved them together.
Meanwhile, these two are working to drill down on who took them and why. The plot keeps widening until we see all the major players from the series to this point. As always, the world building is stellar. And the pace builds and builds to a perfect climax where we see the true glory that is Aden Kai. I couldn’t have asked for more.
I can’t wait to see where Singh takes the series next. She has done a great job transitioning us to the next arc. It’s going to be another fantastic ride.
Rating: B+/A-
*ARC provided by publisher
I’ll get to the bigger picture stuff in a moment, but first I want to focus on the central romance. Aden is one of the last characters I have been waiting to see featured in the series and Singh did not disappoint me. There is so much more to him than we ever knew. What is interesting about him is that he has never been entirely what he seems. He’s never really been Silent. He’s never really been average. He just hides himself very, very well. I loved watching Singh unwrapping his layers. But perhaps the very best surprise of the book is the heroine, Zaira.
As the story begins, Aden and Zaira have been kidnapped. They’re both injured. Their Psy abilities are blocked. Someone is holding them in a compound, but even injured, Arrows will not be prey. They escape, but it takes some time before they can get back home –and through their trials, we see that there is already a very deep bond between these two. It’s not a romance yet, but they are bound by their past, their mutual trust and an emotion that neither has tried to name before now.
Zaira is so very damaged, even more so than the other Arrows, who endured abandonment and torture to make it where they are today. She was driven to kill her own parents as a child and has stuffed her anger, hurt and dysfunction so far down, she appears Silent. But deep inside, she knows how volatile she is. She considers herself a monster, unworthy to be Aden’s mate. He will never settle for anyone else, though. So we watch their tentative dance as they step toward one another, then she steps back. He steps forward and around it goes. Normally that would drive me crazy, but I believed in Zaira’s fear. Her monster is real and she loves Aden too much to destroy him.
I may have cried once or twice. Or maybe three times. It’s just that her wonder at his love is so bittersweet. Her realization of her worth through his eyes really touched me. I loved them together.
Meanwhile, these two are working to drill down on who took them and why. The plot keeps widening until we see all the major players from the series to this point. As always, the world building is stellar. And the pace builds and builds to a perfect climax where we see the true glory that is Aden Kai. I couldn’t have asked for more.
I can’t wait to see where Singh takes the series next. She has done a great job transitioning us to the next arc. It’s going to be another fantastic ride.
Rating: B+/A-
*ARC provided by publisher
June 4, 2019
Nalini Singh is the best when it comes to Paranormal Romance/Sci-Fi Romance. I enjoy this series immensely. She has created a universe, so vast, so expansive, so complex yet so vivid and alive. Aden and Zaira made a great couple, not my favorite although I love them a characters in this series but I enjoyed their interaction.
Angela Dawe is amazing as always.
Angela Dawe is amazing as always.
March 10, 2021
3 Snug Stars
This book is about two Arrows – Zaira, who in this is the wild card, dangerous and potentially a ticking time bomb and Aden – who is leading the Arrows into a new way of life and a new way of living/being. He is the glue that holds the squad together and he has always wanted Ziara, she may feel the same but she feels her desire/craving for him is too dangerous to give in it. Be warned Ziara is pretty angsty.
I loved seeing the Psy and Changeling children that popped into this book, and seeing Kaleb, Lucas and Sascha again was fab. Plus, the floating cities of the water changelings sound ace.
When I first read this book, not long after it was released, I really, really disliked the book – my expectations perhaps were too high, but it’s now a book I overall enjoy re-reading, albeit not as prolifically as others in the series. I never find myself drawn in as powerfully as I am with other books that come before this one in the series, but it has some really good parts and makes a nice easy read.
This book is about two Arrows – Zaira, who in this is the wild card, dangerous and potentially a ticking time bomb and Aden – who is leading the Arrows into a new way of life and a new way of living/being. He is the glue that holds the squad together and he has always wanted Ziara, she may feel the same but she feels her desire/craving for him is too dangerous to give in it. Be warned Ziara is pretty angsty.
I loved seeing the Psy and Changeling children that popped into this book, and seeing Kaleb, Lucas and Sascha again was fab. Plus, the floating cities of the water changelings sound ace.
When I first read this book, not long after it was released, I really, really disliked the book – my expectations perhaps were too high, but it’s now a book I overall enjoy re-reading, albeit not as prolifically as others in the series. I never find myself drawn in as powerfully as I am with other books that come before this one in the series, but it has some really good parts and makes a nice easy read.
March 25, 2015
Really great addition to this series. I loved Aden but I really loved the heroine. We a glimpse of a lot of past characters too - and the plot moves forward well.
Love that it was two Arrows put together, and love how protective the heroine is over the hero. Well done.
Love that it was two Arrows put together, and love how protective the heroine is over the hero. Well done.
July 26, 2017
After awhile I finally started to read this series and I really liked it. There's a reason why I love Nalini Singh and it's her effortless writing and incredible imagination that makes every story work for me. I love the characters, although this time Zaira did get slightly repeatable about how she's mad and not good enough for Aden. But in the end, what an alpha want, the alpha gets. The plot is of course super detailed and we do get a new huge enemy that we also have in the next books, also new developments that I liked, such as a new mindset for the kids and new allegiances. I loved that we got the met new packs and I cannot wait to read their story. But the only thing that really bothered me is the lenght of this book.
I mean, I love Nalini but almost 500 pages is a bit too much for me. Near the end, I was struggling to finish the story. Not because the book was lacking but simply because I've been reading it for almost a whole week and I really wanted to start Silver Silence. In the end though, I enjoyed every page. Great plot, characters and twists.
I mean, I love Nalini but almost 500 pages is a bit too much for me. Near the end, I was struggling to finish the story. Not because the book was lacking but simply because I've been reading it for almost a whole week and I really wanted to start Silver Silence. In the end though, I enjoyed every page. Great plot, characters and twists.
May 19, 2021
⭐5 Stars!⭐
The interactions between Arrows and Arrow kids (and changeling kids too! 🥺💕💋💞) completely stole my heart! My hearts always melts while reading about them 🥺💕🤍💕
And Seeing Aden Kai's hidden ability once again gave me goosebumps.
Sooo on this reread I decided to up my rating to a solid 5 star! 🥺💕
........................................................................................
4.5⭐
I LOVED THIS BOOK! 💛🤍
How f*ckin' brilliant Nalini Singh is! 💓
*and I'm still gathering my thoughts and feels*
All in all, this series is.. Gah!
The interactions between Arrows and Arrow kids (and changeling kids too! 🥺💕💋💞) completely stole my heart! My hearts always melts while reading about them 🥺💕🤍💕
And Seeing Aden Kai's hidden ability once again gave me goosebumps.
Sooo on this reread I decided to up my rating to a solid 5 star! 🥺💕
........................................................................................
4.5⭐
I LOVED THIS BOOK! 💛🤍
How f*ckin' brilliant Nalini Singh is! 💓
*and I'm still gathering my thoughts and feels*
All in all, this series is.. Gah!
June 24, 2015
It was just amazing. This is the book where the storyline ends and new one begins. Nalini singh introduced us new changeling packs and new arrows. All of them have huge potentials.
I would love to read more about remi's pack and lion changelings . I'm curious about water changelings but they seems sneaky :D
Aden and zaira are just plain cute and they're perfect together. aden's power is so awesome
even Kaleb questioned himself against the power of aden. And nalini made a right decision about given that much power to a man like aden , a good man , beautiful inside and out. You're such a good writer , I love you women really :D
Can't wait to read new stories and hope you're an immortal vampire so you can write forever .
I would love to read more about remi's pack and lion changelings . I'm curious about water changelings but they seems sneaky :D
Aden and zaira are just plain cute and they're perfect together. aden's power is so awesome
even Kaleb questioned himself against the power of aden. And nalini made a right decision about given that much power to a man like aden , a good man , beautiful inside and out. You're such a good writer , I love you women really :D
Can't wait to read new stories and hope you're an immortal vampire so you can write forever .
October 22, 2015
I like books that have assassins and lethal killers as the heroes. I also love it when they do their job and kill people. Call me crazy, but I like my cold-hearted killers to actually be cold-hearted killers. Weird, huh?
Do your job!
he gets it!
In this book we get to look at the deadliest psy group on the planet, the Arrows. They all have some sort of psychic powers that are so dangerous that their parents give them up to be trained assassins when they are toddlers. The training has always been brutal - basically torture. That's right, child-torturing. But, hey, they become some major badasses after the years of child abuse. And, here I am raising my children with love, compassion, and support... like a chump!
Our two heroes are the leader of the Arrows, Aden, and his seriously disturbed homicidal girlfriend, Zaira. Zaira was so badly damaged and abused as a child that she goes into bloody rages. I really like her.
They are trying to learn how to be together and to change things in the Arrow squad. They don't want the children to be beaten and abused anymore. And, they are determined to teach Arrows how to have the feels.
No more bathing in blood? What will we do with ourselves all day?
In the meantime, there is a new group rising up that is determined to kill Aden. They keep trying, over and over again. I give them points for their persistence, but they kind of suck at killing someone. They need an Arrow in their group. An old-school Arrow - not one of the new rainbows and kittens, share-your-feelings, hippy Arrows.
Arrow squad, how far you have fallen! Get a haircut and put on a freaking shirt!
I loved everyone in this book. I'm ready to join the hippies in singing kumbaya, or whatever about it. Not only is the romance good, but there are so many feels. Not the kind I hate, either. No cancer-kids trying to manipulate my feelings - just the happy stuff that assaults me when there are kids learning to love and crap. I know, it's weird, right?
The bluebird of happiness crapped all over this book.
Do your job!
he gets it!
In this book we get to look at the deadliest psy group on the planet, the Arrows. They all have some sort of psychic powers that are so dangerous that their parents give them up to be trained assassins when they are toddlers. The training has always been brutal - basically torture. That's right, child-torturing. But, hey, they become some major badasses after the years of child abuse. And, here I am raising my children with love, compassion, and support... like a chump!
Our two heroes are the leader of the Arrows, Aden, and his seriously disturbed homicidal girlfriend, Zaira. Zaira was so badly damaged and abused as a child that she goes into bloody rages. I really like her.
They are trying to learn how to be together and to change things in the Arrow squad. They don't want the children to be beaten and abused anymore. And, they are determined to teach Arrows how to have the feels.
No more bathing in blood? What will we do with ourselves all day?
In the meantime, there is a new group rising up that is determined to kill Aden. They keep trying, over and over again. I give them points for their persistence, but they kind of suck at killing someone. They need an Arrow in their group. An old-school Arrow - not one of the new rainbows and kittens, share-your-feelings, hippy Arrows.
Arrow squad, how far you have fallen! Get a haircut and put on a freaking shirt!
I loved everyone in this book. I'm ready to join the hippies in singing kumbaya, or whatever about it. Not only is the romance good, but there are so many feels. Not the kind I hate, either. No cancer-kids trying to manipulate my feelings - just the happy stuff that assaults me when there are kids learning to love and crap. I know, it's weird, right?
The bluebird of happiness crapped all over this book.
March 30, 2022
Makes no sense. Why couldn’t Vasic or Kaleb or even Judd find Blake with a facial lock?
I did enjoy the story, which takes place 4 months after Silence fell in the Heart of Obsidian, and about 5 weeks after the Honeycomb Protocol in Shield of Winter.
But I have a few quibbles: Singh's language has become increasingly flowery (purple) and repetitive. I wish she would stop with the overblown references, like "said the woman who was his soul" or "said the woman who owned his heart" or "to the man with eyes of coldest frost" (that kind of nonsense feels absurd and gets old). And the childhood torture scenes felt excessive. Likewise, IMO, the serial killer scenes felt gratuitous and irrelevant to the plot (I explain further below).
No major spoilers here, I think. And try the quiz: https://www.goodreads.com/quizzes/res...
The opening chapters were fabulous — when Aden and Zaira escape their captors (see book synopsis). Vivid scenes, and credible. True grit, loyalty, courage. An imminent and ominous threat. A link to prequels, and the creation of neural implants (see Mine to Possess and Hostage to Pleasure, for example). The introduction of some new characters. Perhaps these opening chapters were the best in the book.
I went back to a prequel, Tangle of Need, and found an excerpt pointing the finger at the most likely mastermind behind this plot. Spoiler!!!!!!
Heartwarming scenes with children. Jo-Jo, Tavish, etc. I really enjoy the way Singh writes kids into the series (no scenes with the children we already know in this book, though).
Kaleb is now considered an honorary member of
With one caveat, I liked the fiercely protective and possessive Zaira. Her feelings for Aden were bedrock and of long standing, if kept silent. Loved the scene when she took down a killer in public view. Vivid!! Appreciated the fact that sex did not intrude upon the relationship development until late in the book, and then only a few times. Her fear of madness made sense. But, Zaira's repeated thoughts about her madness and rage got old, as Blacky said in her review:
Loved Aden. Loyal to the bone. Loved seeing what this humble Arrow can really do. Great scene! Vividly written. A unique and beautiful ability. And wasn't Kaleb's reaction to Aden's über-power a hoot? (I can see how Walker's psychic spinning X-fire filter -- see Kiss of Snow -- is loosely similar to Aden's special talent).
Loved seeing so many beloved characters from prequels come together to help Arrows learn to socialize and form community in a non-silent world. Helpers included Walker, Sienna, Lucas, Ivy, Vasic, Remi who hates to be called Remington (alpha of Rainfire Leopard Pack in the Smokie Mountains of Tennesee--Carolina). Loved seeing old friends from all three races put their heads together to figure out what the !@#% was going on! We see Judd (Caressed by Ice) use his TK-cell skills and Devraj Santos Blaze of Memory) put his affinity with metals and machines to good use. Vasic saves the day numerous times with his teleporting and intelligence, becoming a strong second-in-command when Aden goes missing. Kaleb plays his part, too, as does Bo Knight, from the Human Alliance (see Branded by Fire and Tangle of Need). We see Selenka, alpha of the Black Edge wolves, and Miane, alpha of the Black Sea water pack — she's one shrewd shark!
Best of all, we see the good guys foil the bad with the brightest and best weapons in the world ••• open communication and trust. Hoorah to Singh for portraying these leaders as wise enough to see beyond emotional manipulation.
Quibbles and Complaints: Much as I enjoyed the book, it gradually lost points with me. Why? Overkill. There was no need to inflict yet another serial killer upon my poor abused senses, as seen in soooo many prequels, beginning with #1 Slave to Sensation. It was a plot digression, adding nothing, and infringing on one of the smexiest scenes in the book. Furthermore, wouldn't the empathic Psy Net alleviate some of that pathology? Remove the serial killer scenes and the pace would flow swiftly (this book is the longest of them all, and bogs in places).
Likewise, did Zaira really have to have such an unbelievably horrible childhood?? As a toddler and very young girl, and given her fragile Psy body, how did she even survive such torture, for years? ( Did Singh have to repeat that tale of childhood abuse so many times?? And Zaira's monstrous rage? Repetitious.
I hate to say this, but such horrific abuse is heavy-handed. In fact, Singh seems to rely on this excessive childhood abuse trope across this series, to garner sympathy for her heroes /heroines. Remember poor Kaleb, in Heart of Obsidian, young Sophie, in Bonds of Justice, and young Tallin, in Mine to Possess? It's not credible or necessary in this book. I would sympathize with Zaira simply for being raised in Silence, as an Arrow, abandoned by unfeeling parents, as was the case with Vasic in Shield of Winter.
Aden's childhood was not as bad, but still....
By the way, I still don't forgive Nikita for what she condoned as council member for years. Her supposed love for Sascha cannot excuse all the horror she allowed and sometimes even actively planned. Neural implants. Deer changeling attacks.
Bottom line: The stage is set for future books, with a shiny new alliance formed, and the evil mastermind still a mystery. I have my guesses, but nothing solid. The series-wide plot is cohesive and fairly credible. I'm still in. :-)
Oh...And the word "lethal" didn't seem quite so predominant as in prequels. Yay!
I did enjoy the story, which takes place 4 months after Silence fell in the Heart of Obsidian, and about 5 weeks after the Honeycomb Protocol in Shield of Winter.
But I have a few quibbles: Singh's language has become increasingly flowery (purple) and repetitive. I wish she would stop with the overblown references, like "said the woman who was his soul" or "said the woman who owned his heart" or "to the man with eyes of coldest frost" (that kind of nonsense feels absurd and gets old). And the childhood torture scenes felt excessive. Likewise, IMO, the serial killer scenes felt gratuitous and irrelevant to the plot (I explain further below).
No major spoilers here, I think. And try the quiz: https://www.goodreads.com/quizzes/res...
The opening chapters were fabulous — when Aden and Zaira escape their captors (see book synopsis). Vivid scenes, and credible. True grit, loyalty, courage. An imminent and ominous threat. A link to prequels, and the creation of neural implants (see Mine to Possess and Hostage to Pleasure, for example). The introduction of some new characters. Perhaps these opening chapters were the best in the book.
I went back to a prequel, Tangle of Need, and found an excerpt pointing the finger at the most likely mastermind behind this plot. Spoiler!!!!!!
Heartwarming scenes with children. Jo-Jo, Tavish, etc. I really enjoy the way Singh writes kids into the series (no scenes with the children we already know in this book, though).
Kaleb is now considered an honorary member of
With one caveat, I liked the fiercely protective and possessive Zaira. Her feelings for Aden were bedrock and of long standing, if kept silent. Loved the scene when she took down a killer in public view. Vivid!! Appreciated the fact that sex did not intrude upon the relationship development until late in the book, and then only a few times. Her fear of madness made sense. But, Zaira's repeated thoughts about her madness and rage got old, as Blacky said in her review:
Loved Aden. Loyal to the bone. Loved seeing what this humble Arrow can really do. Great scene! Vividly written. A unique and beautiful ability. And wasn't Kaleb's reaction to Aden's über-power a hoot? (I can see how Walker's psychic spinning X-fire filter -- see Kiss of Snow -- is loosely similar to Aden's special talent).
Loved seeing so many beloved characters from prequels come together to help Arrows learn to socialize and form community in a non-silent world. Helpers included Walker, Sienna, Lucas, Ivy, Vasic, Remi who hates to be called Remington (alpha of Rainfire Leopard Pack in the Smokie Mountains of Tennesee--Carolina). Loved seeing old friends from all three races put their heads together to figure out what the !@#% was going on! We see Judd (Caressed by Ice) use his TK-cell skills and Devraj Santos Blaze of Memory) put his affinity with metals and machines to good use. Vasic saves the day numerous times with his teleporting and intelligence, becoming a strong second-in-command when Aden goes missing. Kaleb plays his part, too, as does Bo Knight, from the Human Alliance (see Branded by Fire and Tangle of Need). We see Selenka, alpha of the Black Edge wolves, and Miane, alpha of the Black Sea water pack — she's one shrewd shark!
Best of all, we see the good guys foil the bad with the brightest and best weapons in the world ••• open communication and trust. Hoorah to Singh for portraying these leaders as wise enough to see beyond emotional manipulation.
Quibbles and Complaints: Much as I enjoyed the book, it gradually lost points with me. Why? Overkill. There was no need to inflict yet another serial killer upon my poor abused senses, as seen in soooo many prequels, beginning with #1 Slave to Sensation. It was a plot digression, adding nothing, and infringing on one of the smexiest scenes in the book. Furthermore, wouldn't the empathic Psy Net alleviate some of that pathology? Remove the serial killer scenes and the pace would flow swiftly (this book is the longest of them all, and bogs in places).
Likewise, did Zaira really have to have such an unbelievably horrible childhood?? As a toddler and very young girl, and given her fragile Psy body, how did she even survive such torture, for years? ( Did Singh have to repeat that tale of childhood abuse so many times?? And Zaira's monstrous rage? Repetitious.
I hate to say this, but such horrific abuse is heavy-handed. In fact, Singh seems to rely on this excessive childhood abuse trope across this series, to garner sympathy for her heroes /heroines. Remember poor Kaleb, in Heart of Obsidian, young Sophie, in Bonds of Justice, and young Tallin, in Mine to Possess? It's not credible or necessary in this book. I would sympathize with Zaira simply for being raised in Silence, as an Arrow, abandoned by unfeeling parents, as was the case with Vasic in Shield of Winter.
Aden's childhood was not as bad, but still....
By the way, I still don't forgive Nikita for what she condoned as council member for years. Her supposed love for Sascha cannot excuse all the horror she allowed and sometimes even actively planned. Neural implants. Deer changeling attacks.
Bottom line: The stage is set for future books, with a shiny new alliance formed, and the evil mastermind still a mystery. I have my guesses, but nothing solid. The series-wide plot is cohesive and fairly credible. I'm still in. :-)
Oh...And the word "lethal" didn't seem quite so predominant as in prequels. Yay!
June 2, 2015
I waited 24 hours to even start this review so I did not sound like some gibbering fan, it was hard. First of all, this book might not have the same effect on people that have not been through all of the previous 13 books, this is the culmination of a lot of things and it was awesome (and I dislike using that word usually).
Before I get into a few details let me make sure you understand that this book is a progression of this series, it builds on things that happened in previous books and without that knowledge I seriously doubt you could really get the deeper meaning of many of the things that happen in this novel.
This book does not progress slowly like most of the others have, we are dropped into a life or death situation which for any Arrow is a bit of a new feeling. Most of this book revolves around either the attempts to get two Arrows who have lived most of their live under Silence to become a couple which may not be possible at all for reasons you will see as the story moves forward. This is not a typical romance with a guaranteed HEA but a real struggle that could leave one or both of them dead.
The majority of the rest of the book pursues a plot where people unknown seem to be targeting Arrows (Aden in particular) which to me would have seemed like a really stupid idea but you will see how it goes.
There are a few other small subplots that play directly into one or the other of the above plots and everything weaves together beautifully so much that I have to say that I may have to give this my vote for the best book in the series (and after Heart of Obsidian and Shield of Winter, that is not something I say lightly).
The fact that even with such save the world type plots going on Nalini Singh manages to inject some laugh out loud moments just makes this more of a masterpiece of urban fantasy than it would have been without it (two adults needing a friend to write them a sex manual so they might do it right was entertaining to say the least). It is the depth of the characters involved that make this series such an exceptional work of fiction. No cardboard cutouts here folks, we get to know most of these people deeply and if we don’t, usually means they have a book of their own coming in the future.
I dislike writing long winded reviews since they tend to start coming off like publicists wrote them and I consider myself unbiased as a reviewer but exceptional books always ruin my reading schedule because you just have to sit back and kind of catch your breath and just say ‘WOW”. That is where this book left me and giving it 5 Stars seems inadequate for something like this.
There are only two types of books when you boil it down to basics, those you read and those you feel like you are living, this is one of those latter types. The problem with those types are you never want it to end because you love being part of those people’s lives while the story goes on and you hate it when it ends.
Nalini Singh, because of you it is going to be very, very hard to get enthused about the next book on my reviewer’s list after Shards of Hope.
Before I get into a few details let me make sure you understand that this book is a progression of this series, it builds on things that happened in previous books and without that knowledge I seriously doubt you could really get the deeper meaning of many of the things that happen in this novel.
This book does not progress slowly like most of the others have, we are dropped into a life or death situation which for any Arrow is a bit of a new feeling. Most of this book revolves around either the attempts to get two Arrows who have lived most of their live under Silence to become a couple which may not be possible at all for reasons you will see as the story moves forward. This is not a typical romance with a guaranteed HEA but a real struggle that could leave one or both of them dead.
The majority of the rest of the book pursues a plot where people unknown seem to be targeting Arrows (Aden in particular) which to me would have seemed like a really stupid idea but you will see how it goes.
There are a few other small subplots that play directly into one or the other of the above plots and everything weaves together beautifully so much that I have to say that I may have to give this my vote for the best book in the series (and after Heart of Obsidian and Shield of Winter, that is not something I say lightly).
The fact that even with such save the world type plots going on Nalini Singh manages to inject some laugh out loud moments just makes this more of a masterpiece of urban fantasy than it would have been without it (two adults needing a friend to write them a sex manual so they might do it right was entertaining to say the least). It is the depth of the characters involved that make this series such an exceptional work of fiction. No cardboard cutouts here folks, we get to know most of these people deeply and if we don’t, usually means they have a book of their own coming in the future.
I dislike writing long winded reviews since they tend to start coming off like publicists wrote them and I consider myself unbiased as a reviewer but exceptional books always ruin my reading schedule because you just have to sit back and kind of catch your breath and just say ‘WOW”. That is where this book left me and giving it 5 Stars seems inadequate for something like this.
There are only two types of books when you boil it down to basics, those you read and those you feel like you are living, this is one of those latter types. The problem with those types are you never want it to end because you love being part of those people’s lives while the story goes on and you hate it when it ends.
Nalini Singh, because of you it is going to be very, very hard to get enthused about the next book on my reviewer’s list after Shards of Hope.
December 25, 2018
I don't have much - or anything really - to add this time around. I loved the story (again) and I adore these characters. If you want to see how to write a paranormal romance heroine with issues usually reserved for the heroes, this is the book. You can't get any more possessive than Zaira and I loved her.
---
Still good. I have a feeling I loved these characters even more this time (if that's possible). Aden's speciality is extraordinary.
Kaleb Krychek's opinion on Aden: “I have a feeling even if you handed him control of the PsyNet on a silver platter, he wouldn’t take it.” “The irony is that if I had to hand off power for whatever reason, he’s the only one of the Ruling Coalition I’d trust to take the Net in the right direction.”
---
Psy-Changeling books almost always seem too short. Plus, I am usually unable to write a meaningful review.
In Shards of Hope Aden Kai finally gets his own story. It is unfair to label this book romance. Aden and Zaira's story is only a small part of this story. And the type of romance you do get is exactly the one the two Arrows, one of them with deeper issues then the other, could have. If they had started acting like the changeling, humans or even E-Psy, it would have been ridiculous. They are Arrows.
Another thing I loved is the way Nalini Singh reversed the usual roles. It's the woman who has more issues and I loved the way Aden handled it all. It was always her choice. Anyone expecting an explosive, wild and fast relationship will be disappointed. Their connection is not the focus of this book and that might be a deal-breaker for some readers. It worked quite well because both characters are Arrows.
The other part of the story is what makes this book extraordinary. You get to see a new, ruthless and clever enemy rising. All the previous alliances come together in this book. Not a single group previously mentioned was forgotten.
My favourite part was Aden learning to be the leader his Arrows need. The veterans have their own set of issues (guilt mostly), those like Aden and Zaira need help to cope with the consequences of the fall of Silence, but the most heartbreaking part of it all are the Arrow children. They need to be told they can have a hug anytime they want.
Overall, it is important to note that Shards of Hope lacks the usual type of romance, but the moment you remember the who in this case, it makes more sense.
---
Still good. I have a feeling I loved these characters even more this time (if that's possible). Aden's speciality is extraordinary.
Kaleb Krychek's opinion on Aden: “I have a feeling even if you handed him control of the PsyNet on a silver platter, he wouldn’t take it.” “The irony is that if I had to hand off power for whatever reason, he’s the only one of the Ruling Coalition I’d trust to take the Net in the right direction.”
---
Psy-Changeling books almost always seem too short. Plus, I am usually unable to write a meaningful review.
In Shards of Hope Aden Kai finally gets his own story. It is unfair to label this book romance. Aden and Zaira's story is only a small part of this story. And the type of romance you do get is exactly the one the two Arrows, one of them with deeper issues then the other, could have. If they had started acting like the changeling, humans or even E-Psy, it would have been ridiculous. They are Arrows.
Another thing I loved is the way Nalini Singh reversed the usual roles. It's the woman who has more issues and I loved the way Aden handled it all. It was always her choice. Anyone expecting an explosive, wild and fast relationship will be disappointed. Their connection is not the focus of this book and that might be a deal-breaker for some readers. It worked quite well because both characters are Arrows.
The other part of the story is what makes this book extraordinary. You get to see a new, ruthless and clever enemy rising. All the previous alliances come together in this book. Not a single group previously mentioned was forgotten.
My favourite part was Aden learning to be the leader his Arrows need. The veterans have their own set of issues (guilt mostly), those like Aden and Zaira need help to cope with the consequences of the fall of Silence, but the most heartbreaking part of it all are the Arrow children. They need to be told they can have a hug anytime they want.
Overall, it is important to note that Shards of Hope lacks the usual type of romance, but the moment you remember the who in this case, it makes more sense.
June 1, 2015
In a series built on alpha over protective heroes, it's nice to see an alpha over protective heroine for once. I've waited a long time for Aden's story and Singh blows me out of the water in Shards of Hope. Not only in terms of protagonists but in the way she advances the arc, introduces new characters, and effortlessly continues to change the characterization of an entire race. A fabulous series that continues to grow by leaps and bounds.
June 12, 2015
When you have read thirteen (more if you’ve read the novellas) books in a series you think that maybe it should start getting dull…maybe I should be over this world and the characters in it…maybe there isn’t any more to discover….Then, if you are like me, you read the fourteenth and decide nope still interesting, still new facets, still love seeing glimpses of old characters too. Actually sometimes those scenes with prior characters steal the show.
I will admit that prior to Heart of Obsidian I was wondering how much longer it could hold my attention. I mean after Hawk and Sienna there really wasn’t another Changeling couple I was really interesting in at the time. I am enjoying the shift of the PNR focus to Psy-couples. It has added a new dimension to the story especially post silence as everyone is trying to figure it out.
It isn’t often I say this in a PRN genre book but I enjoyed the plot much more than I enjoyed the romance in this book. It took me forever to warm up to Aden and Zaira as a couple, she was extremely hard to like at the beginning but it did come to me a little after the mid-point of the book. She is an arrow, so maybe she was supposed to be hard to like initially. By the end of the book I love them together but for the most part I was much more interesting in the overall plot, finding out what Aden’s ability really is (it is awesome) and side characters.
Aden is bringing the Arrows into a world after silence and not all of them think there is a place for them in this new world. He needs to find a way to connect the old to the young and create a safe environment to teach child Arrows that does not involve the cruelty he, Vasic and Zaira all faced as children. There is also a plot to assassinate him and a few other key individuals in an attempt to destabilize this post silent world and snatch up power from an unknown group that seems to be using people from Psy, Changeling and human groups. It gets intense as they have learned a lot from the prior groups that tried such things and failed before them.
To win against them all the factions will have to work together and find ways to build even stronger bonds to keep them fighting together. I enjoyed the addition of a new pack that is in the early stages for Aden to build a friendship with. Remi and his band of cats and other loners was a good addition as both he and Aden can be remedial Alpha’s together they have the workings of building new alliances together and Remi teaching Aden ways to discipline children that are more affective and less harmful to the child.
There are some moments that really tug on my heartstrings in this. The Arrows have been a solitary group for so long but I loved how Aden wanted to make sure they were like a family and that every one of them had a home no matter what they did. These were some of the biggest emotional moments for me in the book, much more than the relationship between Aden and Zaira. Deadly Arrow children learning that they will be cared for loved and not hurt anymore was enough to touch on so many tender feelings inside me.
Gah…..right in the feelings.
Kaleb is also one of my favorite characters of the series so I’m always happy to see his PoVs especially when he decides that ‘The Ghost’ should make and appearance. The underwater pack is becoming more interesting all the time and I’d like to get an inside view of how they live. But the side characters that stole the show for me this time were Nakita and Anthony Kyriakus. I’ve been certain for a few books now that ‘something’ is going on between them or should be and dare I hope that there are some developments on that front.
ME TOO!!! I really want to see what goes on behind closed doors with those two. Nikita is one of the more interesting characters in the story as I’ve gone from completely hating her in the first few books to getting to know her a little better overtime and how far she is willing to go to protect Sasha, even when it didn’t look like that is what she was doing. Like Kaleb she is one of the more complicated and intricate characters of the series and I would definitely like to see at least a novella if not an entire book devoted to her.
This book had one of the better plots with a new and terrible group, more cunning than others of the past, a lot of action and fighting, tempered with a few other problems throughout. The beginning was a little slow until Aden and Zaira met up with Remi’s pack but once things really start going it is a good ride.
I’m sure you don’t need me to tell you to read this if you are already this far into the series, but it is holding up well for me and if you are more into plots than romance this installment might be one of your favorites.
I will admit that prior to Heart of Obsidian I was wondering how much longer it could hold my attention. I mean after Hawk and Sienna there really wasn’t another Changeling couple I was really interesting in at the time. I am enjoying the shift of the PNR focus to Psy-couples. It has added a new dimension to the story especially post silence as everyone is trying to figure it out.
It isn’t often I say this in a PRN genre book but I enjoyed the plot much more than I enjoyed the romance in this book. It took me forever to warm up to Aden and Zaira as a couple, she was extremely hard to like at the beginning but it did come to me a little after the mid-point of the book. She is an arrow, so maybe she was supposed to be hard to like initially. By the end of the book I love them together but for the most part I was much more interesting in the overall plot, finding out what Aden’s ability really is (it is awesome) and side characters.
Aden is bringing the Arrows into a world after silence and not all of them think there is a place for them in this new world. He needs to find a way to connect the old to the young and create a safe environment to teach child Arrows that does not involve the cruelty he, Vasic and Zaira all faced as children. There is also a plot to assassinate him and a few other key individuals in an attempt to destabilize this post silent world and snatch up power from an unknown group that seems to be using people from Psy, Changeling and human groups. It gets intense as they have learned a lot from the prior groups that tried such things and failed before them.
Killing him would destroy the Arrows and strike a blow to the Ruling Coalition at the same time. As a bonus, it would rip away the shield of fear and mystique that protected the most vulnerable members of the squad. After all, shooting Aden in full view of so many witnesses would prove his lack of strength. Not only that, but if some of the witnesses were also murdered, it would indict the squad as being ineffective protectors against the monsters.
To win against them all the factions will have to work together and find ways to build even stronger bonds to keep them fighting together. I enjoyed the addition of a new pack that is in the early stages for Aden to build a friendship with. Remi and his band of cats and other loners was a good addition as both he and Aden can be remedial Alpha’s together they have the workings of building new alliances together and Remi teaching Aden ways to discipline children that are more affective and less harmful to the child.
There are some moments that really tug on my heartstrings in this. The Arrows have been a solitary group for so long but I loved how Aden wanted to make sure they were like a family and that every one of them had a home no matter what they did. These were some of the biggest emotional moments for me in the book, much more than the relationship between Aden and Zaira. Deadly Arrow children learning that they will be cared for loved and not hurt anymore was enough to touch on so many tender feelings inside me.
“Is there something you need, Carolina?”
Her smile was glorious. “You know my name!”
“Zaira told me.”
“I like Zaira. She’s not mean.” Smile fading, Carolina continued to stare at him.
He hunkered down in front of her so she didn’t have to crane her neck. “What is it?” he asked, certain she wanted something.
She shuffled closer and beckoned him with one hand. When he placed his ear next to her mouth, she whispered, “Can I have a hug, too?”
Gah…..right in the feelings.
Kaleb is also one of my favorite characters of the series so I’m always happy to see his PoVs especially when he decides that ‘The Ghost’ should make and appearance. The underwater pack is becoming more interesting all the time and I’d like to get an inside view of how they live. But the side characters that stole the show for me this time were Nakita and Anthony Kyriakus. I’ve been certain for a few books now that ‘something’ is going on between them or should be and dare I hope that there are some developments on that front.
“Anthony?”
“He’s connected to Nikita.” While Kaleb could work with Nikita, he’d never trust her. “I can’t predict how that connection will alter his viewpoints.”
“I don’t know.” Sahara leaned with her elbows on the counter. “I have a feeling if change is to happen, it’ll occur in the other direction—Anthony Kyriakus does not budge from where he stands.”
“Neither,” Kaleb pointed out, “does Nikita Duncan.”
“Immovable force meets irresistible object?” Her eyes sparkled. “I wish I could be a fly on that wall.”
ME TOO!!! I really want to see what goes on behind closed doors with those two. Nikita is one of the more interesting characters in the story as I’ve gone from completely hating her in the first few books to getting to know her a little better overtime and how far she is willing to go to protect Sasha, even when it didn’t look like that is what she was doing. Like Kaleb she is one of the more complicated and intricate characters of the series and I would definitely like to see at least a novella if not an entire book devoted to her.
….it was Nikita who’d made sure Sascha survived to adulthood in a world hostile to empaths. Nikita wasn’t “good,” would probably never be good, but she’d been as much of a mother to Sascha as she could be, given her own experiences and the state of the world while Sascha was growing up.
This book had one of the better plots with a new and terrible group, more cunning than others of the past, a lot of action and fighting, tempered with a few other problems throughout. The beginning was a little slow until Aden and Zaira met up with Remi’s pack but once things really start going it is a good ride.
I’m sure you don’t need me to tell you to read this if you are already this far into the series, but it is holding up well for me and if you are more into plots than romance this installment might be one of your favorites.
May 20, 2022
Superb!!!!
As always I loved Nalini singh's this book too. It was action packed, romantic, emotional read , what more does anyone want?
I adored Aden and Zaira. It was refreshing to read from different point of views and the book ended with new promise for the world.
I especially loved the interaction between Arrow children and adult. I am eagerly waiting for more novellas about a number of characters introduced in this book! Specifically arrow novellas.
I will recommend this series to everyone who loves romance and action.
Oh, totally forgot to mention Nikita duncan and 'somone special '. I hope there will be more to come about them.
I already bought next book Which the author said will be different .
And eagerly waiting for archangel's viper.
Recommended.
As always I loved Nalini singh's this book too. It was action packed, romantic, emotional read , what more does anyone want?
I adored Aden and Zaira. It was refreshing to read from different point of views and the book ended with new promise for the world.
I especially loved the interaction between Arrow children and adult. I am eagerly waiting for more novellas about a number of characters introduced in this book! Specifically arrow novellas.
I will recommend this series to everyone who loves romance and action.
Oh, totally forgot to mention Nikita duncan and 'somone special '. I hope there will be more to come about them.
I already bought next book Which the author said will be different .
And eagerly waiting for archangel's viper.
Recommended.
July 15, 2018
5 Amazing "I-can-no-longer-be-Silent stars"!
There are so many reasons why I look forward to reading Nalini Singh's serials (I have a tendency to loose interest in a series around the 6-7th book. "I" find the stories get too repetitive and loose their 'fresh' story-lines), and one of those reasons is that her story-lines continue to flow smoothly from one book to the next without 'repeating' a previous story.
Once again, Ms. Singh has brought her readers to the amazing world where Psy, changelings, and humans co-exist.
Her writing is wonderful, and her characters unique, intelligent, loyal, strong, and dominant.
Nalini's 'gift' in her story-telling is that she is able to give her readers a brand new story while developing characters who have been introduced as secondary characters throughout the series.
It's wonderful to finally read 'their' stories, and I've been eagerly waiting for Aden and Zaira's story for a long time!
This story has Aden and Zaira caught in a conspiracy that involves all three races trying to cause chaos and disorder since the newly fallen Silence.
Aden is the leader of the Arrow's. He was never considered a threat by the leaders of the squad because of his low Tk and M gradient. He was only ever trained as an Arrow because both his parents were Arrow's. Little did the head of the Arrow's know what they had over-looked in Aden.
They could never have fathomed the potential and greatness that this "invisible" little boy had within him...that he could eventually change the world.
Ever since he was a boy, is heart has been on caring and protecting his comrades in the squad. He was only ever able to do this subtly, and covertly and in small measures, because if he was ever discovered he would have be crushed.
Throughout the years Aden was able to help many people, including those Arrow's in the squad who were deemed no longer useful and sentenced to execution. Aden found a way for them to 'die' so he could hide them until a time would come when they would be able to come out of hiding.
Each and every person he helped over the years never forgot his loyalty or the sacrifices he made in order to protect them. They knew that no matter what happened, Aden would never abandon them and they would never be left behind.
As one Arrow stated when he broke squad protocol when Aden's leadership abilities were continually being questioned,
"Aden is not our leader because of his abilities.
He is our leader because he understands each and every member of his squad and pushes us to our very best.
He is our leader because he goes first against every threat, no matter the risk.
He is our leader because we know that should we fall in battle, he will not leave us behind. He understands to code of soldiers as the Council never did.
He is our leader because he has never forgotten that he is an Arrow. He may sit on the Ruling Coalition, but he is no politician and he is no Councilor. He is an Arrow and he will always be an Arrow."
Zaira is one of Aden's Commanders in the squad.
When she came to the Arrows' as a young girl she was broken and abused by her parents.
Zaira's parents thought they could beat, starve and cage their little girl in order to control her combat high gradient.
Zaira had never needed Silence, because by the time she reached the Arrow's what had been done to her in childhood had caused her to retreat so far into her psyche, that she had shoved her emotions into a dark hole just in order to survive.
The only loyalty Zaira has is to her squad because they are her family and the only place she belongs, and to Aden-absolutely.
Aden was the only person in her life who ever showed her compassion and care. Even when he was transferred to another training facility when they were teenagers, Aden found a way to hack into a computer and send Zaira messages to let her know she was not forgotten and not to let the trainers break her.
He always had time for her and treated as if she was precious and mattered.
Zaira held onto to every little thing Aden did for her. It was the only reason she survived, and didn't let the rage of the little girl that lives within her take over and make her the monster that her parents created.
Aden and Zaira's story is one of two broken people who have a chance of a new beginning.
It's also a story of redemption.
They can't change what they did in the past, but they no longer have to live there.
The fall of Silence gives them hope for a new life and a new future. This story is about them learning to actually "live", to trust one another, give into their love for one another, and let their 'shields' down.
Incredible addition to the Psy-Changeling series!
I can't wait to see what happens next!
dnf
August 14, 2015DNF at 43%
When the book first came out, I couldn't gather enough enthusiasm to read it right away. I had a bad feeling in my gut that I would not enjoy it as I did with previous books. I hate to be right.
I cannot believe I am going to say this to one of my favorites ever -- but I'm quitting the Psy/Changeling series. I realized after Kaleb's book, which was basically the end of 'the first arc', that I was no longer interested with the rest of the characters. Yes, I was able to give Vasic's book 4-stars, but I also complained about too many alternate POVs (the story was no longer just about the main couple) and the tiresome life-and-death situation.
The truth is, I felt like the 'big bang' ended with the fallen of Silence Protocol and Kaleb being exposed as The Ghost. This second arc felt repetitive in theme: distrust, betrayal, threats. For me, to be told repeatedly that Psys are broken and dangerous has become tedious and annoying.
So my problems with this book were two-folds:
1) I didn't care enough for Aden and Zaira; I thought they were boring as a couple -- and Zaira was not strong enough to spark my interest as a character.
2) I felt that the politics, the set-up for the next conflicts, and too many POVs from others (Remy, Selenka, Kaleb, Vasic, Bo, etc. I didn't make it to the end) grated on my nerves.
I did admit I was curious with the new changeling packs, and the cubs were cute. But I could also predict this execution-style would still be present in the next books, which definitely NOT the way I enjoy the series. It was difficult to care with the main couple when they had to share the spotlights with others.
Unless my friends could convince me otherwise, this is where I say goodbye to the Psy/Changeling gang. Thanks for giving me Judd, Hawke (and Sienna), and Kaleb. From now on, I will focus on Singh's other urban fantasy series, The Guild Hunter instead.
When the book first came out, I couldn't gather enough enthusiasm to read it right away. I had a bad feeling in my gut that I would not enjoy it as I did with previous books. I hate to be right.
I cannot believe I am going to say this to one of my favorites ever -- but I'm quitting the Psy/Changeling series. I realized after Kaleb's book, which was basically the end of 'the first arc', that I was no longer interested with the rest of the characters. Yes, I was able to give Vasic's book 4-stars, but I also complained about too many alternate POVs (the story was no longer just about the main couple) and the tiresome life-and-death situation.
The truth is, I felt like the 'big bang' ended with the fallen of Silence Protocol and Kaleb being exposed as The Ghost. This second arc felt repetitive in theme: distrust, betrayal, threats. For me, to be told repeatedly that Psys are broken and dangerous has become tedious and annoying.
So my problems with this book were two-folds:
1) I didn't care enough for Aden and Zaira; I thought they were boring as a couple -- and Zaira was not strong enough to spark my interest as a character.
2) I felt that the politics, the set-up for the next conflicts, and too many POVs from others (Remy, Selenka, Kaleb, Vasic, Bo, etc. I didn't make it to the end) grated on my nerves.
I did admit I was curious with the new changeling packs, and the cubs were cute. But I could also predict this execution-style would still be present in the next books, which definitely NOT the way I enjoy the series. It was difficult to care with the main couple when they had to share the spotlights with others.
Unless my friends could convince me otherwise, this is where I say goodbye to the Psy/Changeling gang. Thanks for giving me Judd, Hawke (and Sienna), and Kaleb. From now on, I will focus on Singh's other urban fantasy series, The Guild Hunter instead.
March 28, 2020
1st read: 2-3 june 2015
I love, love, love this book and series! Nalini is taking the series in a wonderful direction.
Nalini Q&A on FB, I cleaned it up a bit :)
http://alysmiscellany.blogspot.ro/201...
2nd read: 3- June 2017
I love, love, love this book and series! Nalini is taking the series in a wonderful direction.
Nalini Q&A on FB, I cleaned it up a bit :)
http://alysmiscellany.blogspot.ro/201...
2nd read: 3- June 2017
February 26, 2024
The last several books in this series have largely focused on the Psy world, which is very much in flux. Silence, the suppression of all emotion, has been broken. Psy who experience emotion are no longer sent for rehabilitation, but that doesn't mean that they know how to handle it. The return of sexual desire is especially confusing and Singh's characters often wish for a manual (and are quite excited when they realize there are such things). They share tips and files and watch online porn as training videos. Adorable!
The personal is political and while the new Council is finding its way a shadowy Consortium has decided to seize power. They are sneaky and determined to sow discord between humans, Changelings and Psy. Even between various groups within those main divisions. The elite Psy force, the Arrows, have their hands full. Their leader, Aden, is determined to provide a supportive training program, rather than the brutal regime of the past. He wants a family structure for these men, women, and children who must learn to control their dangerous psychic abilities. There have been kidnappings of marine Changelings to be dealt with, in addition to the Consortium's meddling (assassination attempts, financial shenanigans, etc.)
Since the Psy are my favourites among the three populations, these books have been a great deal of fun for me. I love watching them relearn how to love and be compassionate to their children and each other. My Psy are thawing, leaving behind the icy state of Silence.
The personal is political and while the new Council is finding its way a shadowy Consortium has decided to seize power. They are sneaky and determined to sow discord between humans, Changelings and Psy. Even between various groups within those main divisions. The elite Psy force, the Arrows, have their hands full. Their leader, Aden, is determined to provide a supportive training program, rather than the brutal regime of the past. He wants a family structure for these men, women, and children who must learn to control their dangerous psychic abilities. There have been kidnappings of marine Changelings to be dealt with, in addition to the Consortium's meddling (assassination attempts, financial shenanigans, etc.)
Since the Psy are my favourites among the three populations, these books have been a great deal of fun for me. I love watching them relearn how to love and be compassionate to their children and each other. My Psy are thawing, leaving behind the icy state of Silence.
June 3, 2015
As I finish the fourteenth installment of my all times favorite series I wonder, was Nalini Singh planning this all along? Does all of it make sense out of luck and good writing, or are all the reminders that Harry has his mother's eyes crucial to Severus' actions through the books?
Because if you told me that the woman who started as a flawed, lonely individual of an emotionless race would become a mother, a mate, a friend, a healer and an outstanding Alpha of one of the most powerful changeling packs in the world, I would never have believed it. If you told me a wolf and a leopard would mate and have pupcubs, I would have laughed at you. If you told me the most powerful individual on Earth would restrain himself from destroying the world because of a woman, I would have told you to get your head checked.
And if you had told me that Aden Kai had the power to turn the world around, I would have said Aden who? I thought we were talking about real power.
If Slave of Sensation was the first step and Kiss of Snow was the war, then Shards of Hope is the beginning of a different world, a better world. And Aden, who most people underestimated next to flashier powers like Kaleb, is the most promising leader this universe has shown us. He is, in a way, the true hero of the series. The one that makes what would appear to be the ultimate objective of the series possible.
As for the romance, it wasn't the tenderness of Sascha and Lucas, the epicness of Sienna and Hawke, or the power of Sahara and Kaleb. Like the book, it was rather unlike any of the others. Yet it felt right. For me, it had the emotion and absoluteness the last couples lacked. Aden is Zaira's, and Zaira is Aden's. It's not a mating bond, nor simple human love, or even a psychic bond. It's different, it's unique, and it's final. They knew it and I knew it from the beginning, the rest of the book merely formalities.
This is why I sit here and wonder, did this extraordinary author plan it all along? Has she always had the ending point for what she would call "the first season of this tv show"?
But more importantly, what comes after? Actually, I don't want to know. I'd rather let her surprise me. After all, if one thing can be said for this world, is that it never disappoints.
Although, if Nikita dies, I will fucking murder Nalini Singh.
Because if you told me that the woman who started as a flawed, lonely individual of an emotionless race would become a mother, a mate, a friend, a healer and an outstanding Alpha of one of the most powerful changeling packs in the world, I would never have believed it. If you told me a wolf and a leopard would mate and have pupcubs, I would have laughed at you. If you told me the most powerful individual on Earth would restrain himself from destroying the world because of a woman, I would have told you to get your head checked.
And if you had told me that Aden Kai had the power to turn the world around, I would have said Aden who? I thought we were talking about real power.
If Slave of Sensation was the first step and Kiss of Snow was the war, then Shards of Hope is the beginning of a different world, a better world. And Aden, who most people underestimated next to flashier powers like Kaleb, is the most promising leader this universe has shown us. He is, in a way, the true hero of the series. The one that makes what would appear to be the ultimate objective of the series possible.
As for the romance, it wasn't the tenderness of Sascha and Lucas, the epicness of Sienna and Hawke, or the power of Sahara and Kaleb. Like the book, it was rather unlike any of the others. Yet it felt right. For me, it had the emotion and absoluteness the last couples lacked. Aden is Zaira's, and Zaira is Aden's. It's not a mating bond, nor simple human love, or even a psychic bond. It's different, it's unique, and it's final. They knew it and I knew it from the beginning, the rest of the book merely formalities.
This is why I sit here and wonder, did this extraordinary author plan it all along? Has she always had the ending point for what she would call "the first season of this tv show"?
But more importantly, what comes after? Actually, I don't want to know. I'd rather let her surprise me. After all, if one thing can be said for this world, is that it never disappoints.
Although, if Nikita dies, I will fucking murder Nalini Singh.
June 9, 2015
It is amazing to me that this series is 14 books strong and still so amazing! This author brings her A game for every book, the writing never dips and the story is always so consuming. I loved loved loved this book. Aden was sweet, protective and a damn badass lol. And Zaira is now one of my favourite heroines in this series. She was just so possessive and protective and that's not something you get from heroine's a lot. It was a nice change. And I just really liked how she was sort of weird lol. Like this is probably one of my favourite things she says in the book,
"I'm keeping this"
"You'll have to shorten the arms."
"I'll just fold them. If I cut them, you won't be able to wear it."
"I thought you were keeping it."
"I'm going to lend it to you sometimes. But it's mine."
They way she was written was just amazing.
And of course one of the best things about these books is that we get to check in with lots of other characters, other couples we love, and see what they're up too.
This whole series is definitely something I would highly recommend to everyone! If you like PNR then you should be reading these.
"I'm keeping this"
"You'll have to shorten the arms."
"I'll just fold them. If I cut them, you won't be able to wear it."
"I thought you were keeping it."
"I'm going to lend it to you sometimes. But it's mine."
They way she was written was just amazing.
And of course one of the best things about these books is that we get to check in with lots of other characters, other couples we love, and see what they're up too.
This whole series is definitely something I would highly recommend to everyone! If you like PNR then you should be reading these.
January 23, 2016
Rating~ 4.75 stars
Update 30 Oct'2014 JUST LOOK AT THAT COVER!!!
Update Oct 16th'2014: IT HAS A BLURB and A TITLE !!! Just look.
it doesn't even have a date yet it just says 2015:
IT ALSO MAKES ME WANT TO LOSE MY MIND !!!
Finally Aden's book.
Nalini singh confirmed that this will be Aden's book on twitter YAY !!!
Update 30 Oct'2014 JUST LOOK AT THAT COVER!!!
Update Oct 16th'2014: IT HAS A BLURB and A TITLE !!! Just look.
it doesn't even have a date yet it just says 2015:
IT ALSO MAKES ME WANT TO LOSE MY MIND !!!
Finally Aden's book.
Nalini singh confirmed that this will be Aden's book on twitter YAY !!!
September 5, 2024
2021 re-read additional thoughts: Look. Zaira is...perfect. I love her. I love her and Aden together. I love this story. I could re-read it a million times and always be happy and in love with it.
Nalini Singh tied up the over-arcing storyline for the Psy/Changeling series in Heart of Obsidian, two books ago. She then wrapped a nice epilogue on the plot in Shield of Winter. One would be forgiven for going into this book thinking that Shards of Hope couldn't possibly live up to the bar that Nalini Singh has set for herself. Though I was desperate for Aden's story, and seeing more of the Arrows, I wasn't sure what to expect from the plot - something that I'd always greatly enjoyed in this series.
Shards of Hope takes the changed world and ups the ante. There are lingering threats that still get page time, and there are new threats that are clearly going to take us into the next plot-arc. From the first moments, when Aden and Zaira wake up captured, I was on the edge of my seat trying to figure out who this new, insidious, enemy is. Anxious to know where the world was heading and if those characters that I've come to love so dearly were going to be able to come out on top, continuing to build and shape the world in the best possible way.
There is a lot going on in this book. A LOT. And that's why it's a little hard for me to talk about the romance between Aden and Zaira. I loved their moments, but more than that I loved seeing Zaira figure out a way to actually live in this new world, not just survive. Plenty of times they had me near tears and I became so invested in them that I couldn't stop turning pages.
With each new revelation, I became more and more invested in what was happening in this new world. I need to know who is pulling the strings. Is it someone that we know and loathe already, or a new player(s) come to wreak havoc?
I loved seeing the glimpses of characters we know and love - they fit in with the storyline and weren't just thrown in there for no reason at all. Nikita, in particular, has become a character that I'm anxious to see more about. She's intriguing, in the way that "villainous" characters are. Even more intriguing when taking into account the minute changes in her outward actions - that perhaps, just maybe, betray a deeper well of emotion that we might have originally imagined.
As I said at the beginning of this review, one could have been forgiven for going into this book not expecting Ms. Singh to pull it off. However, the same can't be said upon finishing it. One major change has been achieved, but like real life the story doesn't end there. There's tons more conflict to be fought and victories to be won. I, for one, can't wait to read what she has in store for us next.
Nalini Singh tied up the over-arcing storyline for the Psy/Changeling series in Heart of Obsidian, two books ago. She then wrapped a nice epilogue on the plot in Shield of Winter. One would be forgiven for going into this book thinking that Shards of Hope couldn't possibly live up to the bar that Nalini Singh has set for herself. Though I was desperate for Aden's story, and seeing more of the Arrows, I wasn't sure what to expect from the plot - something that I'd always greatly enjoyed in this series.
Shards of Hope takes the changed world and ups the ante. There are lingering threats that still get page time, and there are new threats that are clearly going to take us into the next plot-arc. From the first moments, when Aden and Zaira wake up captured, I was on the edge of my seat trying to figure out who this new, insidious, enemy is. Anxious to know where the world was heading and if those characters that I've come to love so dearly were going to be able to come out on top, continuing to build and shape the world in the best possible way.
There is a lot going on in this book. A LOT. And that's why it's a little hard for me to talk about the romance between Aden and Zaira. I loved their moments, but more than that I loved seeing Zaira figure out a way to actually live in this new world, not just survive. Plenty of times they had me near tears and I became so invested in them that I couldn't stop turning pages.
With each new revelation, I became more and more invested in what was happening in this new world. I need to know who is pulling the strings. Is it someone that we know and loathe already, or a new player(s) come to wreak havoc?
I loved seeing the glimpses of characters we know and love - they fit in with the storyline and weren't just thrown in there for no reason at all. Nikita, in particular, has become a character that I'm anxious to see more about. She's intriguing, in the way that "villainous" characters are. Even more intriguing when taking into account the minute changes in her outward actions - that perhaps, just maybe, betray a deeper well of emotion that we might have originally imagined.
As I said at the beginning of this review, one could have been forgiven for going into this book not expecting Ms. Singh to pull it off. However, the same can't be said upon finishing it. One major change has been achieved, but like real life the story doesn't end there. There's tons more conflict to be fought and victories to be won. I, for one, can't wait to read what she has in store for us next.
May 17, 2015
Shards of Hope is the fourteenth book in this excellent, auto-buy series, and with every new book, I marvel at the breadth and depth of this unique world, these stirring characters, and this heart-pounding series. With a now sprawling cast of Changeling, Psy and humans, all with varying talents, skills, challenges, issues and idiosyncrasies, the Psy-Changeling series is one full of surprises, romance, pain and, as the title of this book clearly states, hope.
Injured and isolated, Arrows Aden and Zaira must fight to escape not just their would-be jailers, but also the harsh environment that threatens their lives as much as the men gunning for them. These deadly shadow soldiers have no choice but to survive, as attempts to shatter the unstable peace after the fall of Silence jeopardizes the fledging hope of those facing this new world.
With the future promising a chance for even the most deadly and volatile members of society, Aden is determined to do all he can to ensure that no Arrow is left behind. But his blind faith may not be enough; not enough to stop those determined to take down the squad, and not enough to help Zaira see that her past and her pain does not make her broken beyond repair...
Having read and re-read this series so many times, to say I was excited to get my hands on Aden's story would be an understatement of epic proportions. But underneath my excitement was a healthy dose of nerves. Would this book live up to the others, including the fantastic previous installment, Shield of Winter? Would this story be enough for a reader whose desperation to return to the Changelings packs bordered on obsessive? Would the reveal of Aden's hidden, but hinted at, power be as epic as it needed to be? I am happy to say the answer all those questions was a resounding YES.
Within the first few pages, I was hooked. The action was rapid; the characters addicting. I'm amazed -- which, really, I shouldn't be given Ms. Singh's track record with this series and her equally brilliant Guild Hunter series -- at how seamlessly the characters, new and old, are worked into the overall story. And at how Shards of Hope intricately weaves a tale that's not only wonderful on its own, but is also the perfect addition to a series that moves forward rapidly and unapologetically.
So much happens in this book, it would be impossible for me to list it all. And I wouldn't want to, because reading Aden and Zaira's story, a story about need and hope and faith and love, should be experienced without preconceived ideas about who and what they are, where they have been and where they are going, and how/if they are going to get there. Both of these characters have been seen in earlier books -- Aden more so -- but never like this. Ms. Singh makes their growth, and the changes they affect in themselves and those surrounding them, believable and understandable. Desirable. Needed. And a little bit heart-breaking.
Shards of Hope pushed this series into a new dimension. The story has changed so much since Slave to Sensation, and yet it's been so organic, you can't help but feel like you're living in this world. And as such, formed a strong bond with all of these characters, strong or weak, good or (mostly) bad, male or female, Psy, Changeling or human. I'm excited to see what comes next. With so many questions still unanswered and scores of characters that deserve their happily ever after, my desperation now knows no bounds. I need more of this series. And right now, I don't care how I get it. Or who it's about. ~ Beth, 5 stars
Injured and isolated, Arrows Aden and Zaira must fight to escape not just their would-be jailers, but also the harsh environment that threatens their lives as much as the men gunning for them. These deadly shadow soldiers have no choice but to survive, as attempts to shatter the unstable peace after the fall of Silence jeopardizes the fledging hope of those facing this new world.
With the future promising a chance for even the most deadly and volatile members of society, Aden is determined to do all he can to ensure that no Arrow is left behind. But his blind faith may not be enough; not enough to stop those determined to take down the squad, and not enough to help Zaira see that her past and her pain does not make her broken beyond repair...
Having read and re-read this series so many times, to say I was excited to get my hands on Aden's story would be an understatement of epic proportions. But underneath my excitement was a healthy dose of nerves. Would this book live up to the others, including the fantastic previous installment, Shield of Winter? Would this story be enough for a reader whose desperation to return to the Changelings packs bordered on obsessive? Would the reveal of Aden's hidden, but hinted at, power be as epic as it needed to be? I am happy to say the answer all those questions was a resounding YES.
Within the first few pages, I was hooked. The action was rapid; the characters addicting. I'm amazed -- which, really, I shouldn't be given Ms. Singh's track record with this series and her equally brilliant Guild Hunter series -- at how seamlessly the characters, new and old, are worked into the overall story. And at how Shards of Hope intricately weaves a tale that's not only wonderful on its own, but is also the perfect addition to a series that moves forward rapidly and unapologetically.
So much happens in this book, it would be impossible for me to list it all. And I wouldn't want to, because reading Aden and Zaira's story, a story about need and hope and faith and love, should be experienced without preconceived ideas about who and what they are, where they have been and where they are going, and how/if they are going to get there. Both of these characters have been seen in earlier books -- Aden more so -- but never like this. Ms. Singh makes their growth, and the changes they affect in themselves and those surrounding them, believable and understandable. Desirable. Needed. And a little bit heart-breaking.
Shards of Hope pushed this series into a new dimension. The story has changed so much since Slave to Sensation, and yet it's been so organic, you can't help but feel like you're living in this world. And as such, formed a strong bond with all of these characters, strong or weak, good or (mostly) bad, male or female, Psy, Changeling or human. I'm excited to see what comes next. With so many questions still unanswered and scores of characters that deserve their happily ever after, my desperation now knows no bounds. I need more of this series. And right now, I don't care how I get it. Or who it's about. ~ Beth, 5 stars
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