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Cara's Twelve
Raised in the backwater province of Crowthorne, Cara finds her fate bound to a system she despises and a goddess she no longer believes in. When it becomes clear that the heir to the Elbian throne has found disfavor in the eyes of the goddess Annul, Cara is ordained by blood and required by law to take her cousin’s place as heir apparent.
One man from each of the twelve provinces are chosen by the royal council to pledge their lives and swords as champions and consorts of the future queen. From these men, Cara must choose the future king of Elbia. Before she is able to take her place on the throne, Cara and her Twelve must visit each province and perform a sacred ceremony, one that will make Cara question everything she thought was real.
Cara soon realizes that not all of the men who swore to protect her are what they seem, and there are those who would use her as a tool to gain power.
One man from each of the twelve provinces are chosen by the royal council to pledge their lives and swords as champions and consorts of the future queen. From these men, Cara must choose the future king of Elbia. Before she is able to take her place on the throne, Cara and her Twelve must visit each province and perform a sacred ceremony, one that will make Cara question everything she thought was real.
Cara soon realizes that not all of the men who swore to protect her are what they seem, and there are those who would use her as a tool to gain power.
335 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 14, 2015
216 people are currently reading
2134 people want to read
About the author
Chantel Seabrook
25 books521 followersAmazon Bestselling Paranormal, Fantasy & Reverse Harem author Chantel Seabrook writes sexy stories with possessive bad boys who fight hard to get their happily ever afters. ❤
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 202 reviews
August 24, 2016
4.75 stars
Effin hell, i am surprised by my own decision in rating BUT this was a hell of a journey of passion, growth, decisions, choices, love, impossible love, and more cluster fuck of feels i cant even begin to dwell upon...
Phenomenal writing above all...the flow of the story is neat and fluid...
it just takes you right in the middle of the storm...
The characters- holy hell, where to begin and who to start with...
Cara, above all, astonising female character- thrown into a political ploy of major aspect of deceit, turned her, from a reluctant and angry, defiant young woman, into a force of many faces and many trades as she comes to know herself and her role as a future queen.
She lived up to all of my expectations and reigned not only her future Kingdom but her power lay in her heart that choose to split into three parts...loving two men who pledged their loyalties, destinies and lives to her and for her...and for the third and outmost valuable essence made out of that love...that essence being the key of insuring the future of peace and unison amongst her people...
The Twelve- interesting concept above all, a reverse dominance in matriarchy pledged twelve men as a personal army of protectors and consorts to a future queen who had a choice to choose who to pick...who to love...who to make a King.
Only two of them will actually win her heart as well as they will split it...and somehow i found it believeable and palpable...to love both of them equaly in a different shade and in different layers...
as they all end up fighting for freedom, against treason, betrayal and ultimate deceitful ploy of gigantic proportions...
these characters will find themselves and lose themselves on the brick of war only to be subjected to the sacrifices made out of duty...
I think this story will stay with me for quite some time...
Copy provided by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review
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September 21, 2015
Chantel Seabrook is giving away 2 eCopies & 1 Print Copy!
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Completely enthralling, completely enchanting, Cara’s Twelve by Chantel Seabrook is a heartbreaking and beautiful tale of a naive young girl, forced to become heir to a throne she despises. She is required to visit each of the twelve provinces of the kingdom, each having sent their champion to travel with and protect her, to pledge their lives to her and all she represents of the great goddess, Annul. This is what she has been told, but is there more? From these men, Cara discovers, she is destined to find her true mate, the man to rule beside her as King, but her heart and soul belongs to one warrior, or will her treacherous journey open her heart to another? Can she love two men who fulfill both sides of her heart and soul? Need, desires and duty, only one can win out.
Trapped in the midst of deceit, treachery and the vile machinations of traitors to the throne, Cara and her warriors face battle, torture and emotional blackmail. The last thing Cara can abide is having someone die for her, but die they will, and it is up to her to do her duty to the masses that have suffered and to Annul, possibly forsaking her heart in the process. What is good for the masses may not be good for one and her kingdom needs her now, more than ever.
I cannot compliment Chantel Seabrook enough on this tale that is written with heart and most definitely from her heart. Imagine castles and wicked queens, the fawning of the ruling class who are eager for you to turn your back so they may unsheathe their blades. Ms. Seabrook doesn’t give Cara much backstory on her position and ”the rules,” leaving her to discover what is expected of her as we do. Talk about in the moment! With no wasted words, and sometimes heartwrenching dialogue, each character comes to life, some to become better people, some to uncover their oily and dark side, some to hide their true feelings behind a cloak of indifference and self-loathing. Through all this we watch Cara come apart and rebuild herself over and over.
Ms Seabrook has a gift that will enrapture each reader she touches as her fantasy unfolds like a tale from long ago. Flowing words, a plot that thickens as each layer is revealed, the heroic, the brave and one young girl will take a stand to save their world. Will their sacrifices be worth it? Think tales of women of power and how they achieved it, all I can believe is Cara will reach those heights and beyond.
I received this copy from Chantel Seabrook in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: June 14, 2015
Publisher: Creativia
ISBN-13: 9781514725498
Genre: Fantasy | Coming of Age
Print Length: 335 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For reviews and more: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Ends October 5, 2015 - Don't miss out on great reading - Click on Banner to enter!
Completely enthralling, completely enchanting, Cara’s Twelve by Chantel Seabrook is a heartbreaking and beautiful tale of a naive young girl, forced to become heir to a throne she despises. She is required to visit each of the twelve provinces of the kingdom, each having sent their champion to travel with and protect her, to pledge their lives to her and all she represents of the great goddess, Annul. This is what she has been told, but is there more? From these men, Cara discovers, she is destined to find her true mate, the man to rule beside her as King, but her heart and soul belongs to one warrior, or will her treacherous journey open her heart to another? Can she love two men who fulfill both sides of her heart and soul? Need, desires and duty, only one can win out.
Trapped in the midst of deceit, treachery and the vile machinations of traitors to the throne, Cara and her warriors face battle, torture and emotional blackmail. The last thing Cara can abide is having someone die for her, but die they will, and it is up to her to do her duty to the masses that have suffered and to Annul, possibly forsaking her heart in the process. What is good for the masses may not be good for one and her kingdom needs her now, more than ever.
I cannot compliment Chantel Seabrook enough on this tale that is written with heart and most definitely from her heart. Imagine castles and wicked queens, the fawning of the ruling class who are eager for you to turn your back so they may unsheathe their blades. Ms. Seabrook doesn’t give Cara much backstory on her position and ”the rules,” leaving her to discover what is expected of her as we do. Talk about in the moment! With no wasted words, and sometimes heartwrenching dialogue, each character comes to life, some to become better people, some to uncover their oily and dark side, some to hide their true feelings behind a cloak of indifference and self-loathing. Through all this we watch Cara come apart and rebuild herself over and over.
Ms Seabrook has a gift that will enrapture each reader she touches as her fantasy unfolds like a tale from long ago. Flowing words, a plot that thickens as each layer is revealed, the heroic, the brave and one young girl will take a stand to save their world. Will their sacrifices be worth it? Think tales of women of power and how they achieved it, all I can believe is Cara will reach those heights and beyond.
I received this copy from Chantel Seabrook in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: June 14, 2015
Publisher: Creativia
ISBN-13: 9781514725498
Genre: Fantasy | Coming of Age
Print Length: 335 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For reviews and more: http://tometender.blogspot.com
June 25, 2015
I absolutely loved this book. Caras' journey with her twelve consorts was gripping, emotional, and sometimes heartbreakingly tragic as they navigated a ravaged land in order to secure her place as Queen.
Fighting against predudice, depravity, arrogance and betrayal, Cara has to deal with losing friends and loved ones along the way. Torn between two strong but very different men, she struggled with the age old heart over head problem and I so wished she could have them both.
The ending was refreshing in that although it was happy, it was also bitter sweet. I look forward to reading more of this authors work in the future.
Buy it, read it and enjoy!
Fighting against predudice, depravity, arrogance and betrayal, Cara has to deal with losing friends and loved ones along the way. Torn between two strong but very different men, she struggled with the age old heart over head problem and I so wished she could have them both.
The ending was refreshing in that although it was happy, it was also bitter sweet. I look forward to reading more of this authors work in the future.
Buy it, read it and enjoy!
September 16, 2015
OMG this was such a great book! I love reading about about a woman who gets to "experiment" with more than one man, but how about several men!!! Gosh, I wish I was Cara for a few months! I loved the characters and dynamic tension, and the book is written in a way that is totally conceivable (unfortunately, probably not in my life time). Without giving away too much information, unfortunately my hubby is Finn, not Tahdoan. The book is very well written, and I can't wait for book 2!
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November 21, 2016DNF at 20%
Not really feeling it at the moment, I think I will try and pick it back up in the future.
Not really feeling it at the moment, I think I will try and pick it back up in the future.
February 18, 2017
I received a free copy of this audio book in exchange for an honest review.
This book had so much potential, but it just didn't achieve it. I have so many issues with this book like:
1. After proving that the Queen is a murderous woman, why do you then leave her on the throne and go off on a two year haunt through the country? Could you not have announced a state of emergency and put off the tour until you solved the issue?
2. You decide to take a woman who has been tortured out in a carriage in the hope that she'll survive. Like what? She's gravely ill and needs medical attention so you take her on a two year tour and hope she survives? And you love this woman? What?? No! That's crazy!
3. The Queen. Does she have an actual reason for doing what she did besides *power*? Like she already has power. I feel like her favorite word is *because* literally because that's synonymous with what she did.
4. I just don't get how in a society that worships a female deity, how women are considered so little in this book. Like the country is supposedly ruled by the Queen, but the King has more power than the Queen, Cara is supposed to become the new Queen, but she still gets harassed by Edmund.
5. It just seemed devoid of logic and clear thinking. Something bad happens (repeatedly) and instead of doing something about it, the characters have sex instead. Like what?? Why?? Do something!!! Stop having sex and sort out all the people who are being brutally murdered!!!
Also, why exactly was Cara shocked to become Queen in the first place? If the Queen only has one living heir, and you're next in live, why is it such a surprise that you are called on as the new Royal?
6. Emotionless characters. The main character's father died early on after her complaining that she hasn't seen him nearly every other line and you're told that he died of a heart attack after she supposedly died. And then she moves on almost immediately. That wasn't the only example. There were so many deaths that are skimmed over and forgotten about that it makes it meaningless. And did Cara even like her own child? I don't remember a single scene with her and her child. Like... half the plot is her trying to conceive a (female, but see point 4) child so that the monarchy could continue and then its like... you don't see them together at all. I get that you're the Queen and everything and you probably have wet maids or nursemaids or whatever, but it would have been nice to see something.
7. Instead of growing as a character, Cara seems to stunt. I just don't get it. She goes from this smart beautiful teenager who seems to have a brain to this woman who is more interested in sex with multiple guys than anything else.
The ending came as a surprise to me as is usual in a YA love triangle, you have the dark and mysterious bloke and the steady but boring bloke and the main character has to choose between them,
It just wasn't good, and it really had the potential to be so.
This book had so much potential, but it just didn't achieve it. I have so many issues with this book like:
1. After proving that the Queen is a murderous woman, why do you then leave her on the throne and go off on a two year haunt through the country? Could you not have announced a state of emergency and put off the tour until you solved the issue?
2. You decide to take a woman who has been tortured out in a carriage in the hope that she'll survive. Like what? She's gravely ill and needs medical attention so you take her on a two year tour and hope she survives? And you love this woman? What?? No! That's crazy!
3. The Queen. Does she have an actual reason for doing what she did besides *power*? Like she already has power. I feel like her favorite word is *because* literally because that's synonymous with what she did.
4. I just don't get how in a society that worships a female deity, how women are considered so little in this book. Like the country is supposedly ruled by the Queen, but the King has more power than the Queen, Cara is supposed to become the new Queen, but she still gets harassed by Edmund.
5. It just seemed devoid of logic and clear thinking. Something bad happens (repeatedly) and instead of doing something about it, the characters have sex instead. Like what?? Why?? Do something!!! Stop having sex and sort out all the people who are being brutally murdered!!!
Also, why exactly was Cara shocked to become Queen in the first place? If the Queen only has one living heir, and you're next in live, why is it such a surprise that you are called on as the new Royal?
6. Emotionless characters. The main character's father died early on after her complaining that she hasn't seen him nearly every other line and you're told that he died of a heart attack after she supposedly died. And then she moves on almost immediately. That wasn't the only example. There were so many deaths that are skimmed over and forgotten about that it makes it meaningless. And did Cara even like her own child? I don't remember a single scene with her and her child. Like... half the plot is her trying to conceive a (female, but see point 4) child so that the monarchy could continue and then its like... you don't see them together at all. I get that you're the Queen and everything and you probably have wet maids or nursemaids or whatever, but it would have been nice to see something.
7. Instead of growing as a character, Cara seems to stunt. I just don't get it. She goes from this smart beautiful teenager who seems to have a brain to this woman who is more interested in sex with multiple guys than anything else.
The ending came as a surprise to me as is usual in a YA love triangle, you have the dark and mysterious bloke and the steady but boring bloke and the main character has to choose between them,
It just wasn't good, and it really had the potential to be so.
September 25, 2015
When your reaction to a book is, “NOOOOOOOOOOO!” because it has ended, that’s the sign of a truly good book.
A heart wrenching tale, Cara’s Twelve was like a dramatic medieval episode of The Bachelorette. (This may sound like an insult, but for someone who is obsessed with that show, I couldn’t get enough.)
Even though I suspected about half-way what was going to happen in the end, I was still completely heartbroken when it did happen. Without giving spoilers, what I wanted just wasn’t meant to be. BUT DAMMIT, I WANTED IT SO MUCH.
When I put the book down to do things I didn’t want to do – like eat, sleep, work – my mind kept constantly wandering back to Cara and her twelve men.
The action never stopped and there was never a dull moment. There was love, death, betrayal, heartbreak, and even a few laughs.
The characters had depth, and there were my favourites: Reyn, Maeve, Efy, Helfrich, and the guy I like to call T because I can’t pronounce his actual name.
Some of the things that happened were hard to stomach, and if I’m completely honest, I did have to skim one particular scene which still haunts me even though I’d missed half of it. I would not recommend this to anyone who has issues reading about sexual assault. Even though I had an issue with this, I know that it is completely a preferential thing, and that it’s a common thing within this genre.
Which brings me to my last point – I was hesitant to read this at first because of the genre. It's not my favourite, or one I ever seek out. But I’m so glad I stumbled across this and stepped out of my comfort zone. If I hadn’t done that, I would’ve missed out on a truly amazing book.
A heart wrenching tale, Cara’s Twelve was like a dramatic medieval episode of The Bachelorette. (This may sound like an insult, but for someone who is obsessed with that show, I couldn’t get enough.)
Even though I suspected about half-way what was going to happen in the end, I was still completely heartbroken when it did happen. Without giving spoilers, what I wanted just wasn’t meant to be. BUT DAMMIT, I WANTED IT SO MUCH.
When I put the book down to do things I didn’t want to do – like eat, sleep, work – my mind kept constantly wandering back to Cara and her twelve men.
The action never stopped and there was never a dull moment. There was love, death, betrayal, heartbreak, and even a few laughs.
The characters had depth, and there were my favourites: Reyn, Maeve, Efy, Helfrich, and the guy I like to call T because I can’t pronounce his actual name.
Some of the things that happened were hard to stomach, and if I’m completely honest, I did have to skim one particular scene which still haunts me even though I’d missed half of it. I would not recommend this to anyone who has issues reading about sexual assault. Even though I had an issue with this, I know that it is completely a preferential thing, and that it’s a common thing within this genre.
Which brings me to my last point – I was hesitant to read this at first because of the genre. It's not my favourite, or one I ever seek out. But I’m so glad I stumbled across this and stepped out of my comfort zone. If I hadn’t done that, I would’ve missed out on a truly amazing book.
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April 4, 2025DNF at 20%
I'm just not feeling this one. The characters lack distinctive character or even common sense. The evil Queen is evil because... reasons, I guess? I mean seriously, what is her motivation behind being the evil b*tch that she is apart from desire for more power? She already has power, she is the Queen.
I wasn't falling for the romance (see what I did there?), and I HATE love triangles with a passion, so that didn't help me stick with the story either. I guess I just grew too old and cynical for romance books.
I'm just not feeling this one. The characters lack distinctive character or even common sense. The evil Queen is evil because... reasons, I guess? I mean seriously, what is her motivation behind being the evil b*tch that she is apart from desire for more power? She already has power, she is the Queen.
I wasn't falling for the romance (see what I did there?), and I HATE love triangles with a passion, so that didn't help me stick with the story either. I guess I just grew too old and cynical for romance books.
September 30, 2015
Chantel Seabrook storms onto the literary scene with Cara's Twelve, a brilliantly-written epic story that has pretty much everything a love of fiction could want: action, intrigue, suspense, and sex. (Oh, yes, there is a LOT of this.)
At the heart of an intricate, expertly-woven plot is Cara, a young woman who is shoved headlong into a much larger world when she is named the heir to the throne of Elbia, which elicits the anger of many, not the least of which is the former queen, the contemptible Birkita, whose ruthless schemes to seize the power for herself are ... well, scary.
Complicating matters is the ritual tour of the country that Cara must undergo, with twelve male representatives of each of the country's regions at her side, several of whom would see her dead before she ascends to the throne. But Cara has allies as well, and Seabrook spins a love triangle (quadrangle?) into the story, leaving the reader to wonder who Cara will ultimately choose as her king: the handsome but possessive Finn, the brooding , mysterious Tahdaon, or someone else?
As Cara proceeds through the lands she hopes to rule, alliances are tested, leaders are toppled, and the future of the entire land falls into jeopardy, and Cara must use all her resources to keep the evil men who would claim ownership of Eliba from usurping her throne.
Let me tell you this: this book is NOT for the faint of heart, and should NOT be read by anyone under, say, seventeen or eighteen, as the book contains multiple scenes of sex, violence and brutality (one character, literally, gets "medieval" on another character's ass). But if you have the stomach for such things, this is one damn... awesome... book.
I heartily recommend it to anyone who loves ... well, reading!
At the heart of an intricate, expertly-woven plot is Cara, a young woman who is shoved headlong into a much larger world when she is named the heir to the throne of Elbia, which elicits the anger of many, not the least of which is the former queen, the contemptible Birkita, whose ruthless schemes to seize the power for herself are ... well, scary.
Complicating matters is the ritual tour of the country that Cara must undergo, with twelve male representatives of each of the country's regions at her side, several of whom would see her dead before she ascends to the throne. But Cara has allies as well, and Seabrook spins a love triangle (quadrangle?) into the story, leaving the reader to wonder who Cara will ultimately choose as her king: the handsome but possessive Finn, the brooding , mysterious Tahdaon, or someone else?
As Cara proceeds through the lands she hopes to rule, alliances are tested, leaders are toppled, and the future of the entire land falls into jeopardy, and Cara must use all her resources to keep the evil men who would claim ownership of Eliba from usurping her throne.
Let me tell you this: this book is NOT for the faint of heart, and should NOT be read by anyone under, say, seventeen or eighteen, as the book contains multiple scenes of sex, violence and brutality (one character, literally, gets "medieval" on another character's ass). But if you have the stomach for such things, this is one damn... awesome... book.
I heartily recommend it to anyone who loves ... well, reading!
March 14, 2018
Absolutely mesmerizing! I had work early the next day but read this book in one night. Cara is a kick-ass heroine right from the start who struggles with making her own decisions while caring for those she loves around her. The variety of characters, especially her Twelve, are interesting to see interact with her. And, yes, some scenes with them are super steamy!
The plot involves Cara and her Twelve touring the twelve provinces to ensure she gets the throne, while some provinces grow increasingly protesting. Plus...she must choose one of her Twelve as King.
Overall, the plot was engaging, writing descriptive but accessible, and world-building fantastic to delve into. Definitely recommend for those of the fantasy genre!
The plot involves Cara and her Twelve touring the twelve provinces to ensure she gets the throne, while some provinces grow increasingly protesting. Plus...she must choose one of her Twelve as King.
Overall, the plot was engaging, writing descriptive but accessible, and world-building fantastic to delve into. Definitely recommend for those of the fantasy genre!
June 22, 2015
AWESOME JOB. Wonderful read. Epic plot. Hang onto your hat, it's a heck of a ride. Chantel Seabrook creates a wonderfully believable medieval-like world where a virgin princess learns the price of becoming a queen. Twelve consorts pledge allegiance, and she can take them to her bed ... or not. She must bind the hearts of these men, to hold onto her land. The characters are deep, the plot intriguing, and the sights and sounds will take your breath away. The book should come with a warning. Impossible to put down!
August 27, 2015
This novel was a real surprise. It reminded me a little of Throne of Glass when it began, though it soon became apparent that there were hardly any similarities at all.
Cara is a beautiful young girl whose world is turned upside down when she suddenly becomes the future queen of Elbia. It's a title and a privileged life of service and duty she does not want, but it carries with it many benefits; twelve chosen consorts to the future queen accompany her on a two year tour of each of the their provinces. Along the way Cara becomes a woman and she soon discovers that she has to choose her lovers and suitors from among them, for one is the future King.
Cara's Twelve is wonderfully written and original; what starts as a traditional fantasy soon crosses genres into adult reading/erotica and back again with effortless ease. There is plenty of romance in store for Cara, intrigue in abundance as all twelve scheme and plot in some way for her affections, mystery and suspense as they jockey and compete for position, as well as a twist or two in the plot to keep the reader guessing as to who will be chosen. Cara makes her decisions and her mistakes, influenced by events and those around her.
Readers will connect with the characters who are well developed and have different characteristics. You will root for your chosen favourite, especially between the two who compete most for Cara's affection. You will also pity and loathe others. And to add to what is a great first novel, there is also a killer ending I did not see coming.
I have to say this was a departure from my main genres as it contained adult scenes I usually do not read but I thoroughly enjoyed it and believe female lovers of fantasy and erotica will find this book very hard to put down. M/s Seabrook has crafted an original, professional and engaging piece of work which bodes extremely well for the future. I am sure this is only the beginning of a wonderful journey for her and look forward to reading more of her work.
Cara is a beautiful young girl whose world is turned upside down when she suddenly becomes the future queen of Elbia. It's a title and a privileged life of service and duty she does not want, but it carries with it many benefits; twelve chosen consorts to the future queen accompany her on a two year tour of each of the their provinces. Along the way Cara becomes a woman and she soon discovers that she has to choose her lovers and suitors from among them, for one is the future King.
Cara's Twelve is wonderfully written and original; what starts as a traditional fantasy soon crosses genres into adult reading/erotica and back again with effortless ease. There is plenty of romance in store for Cara, intrigue in abundance as all twelve scheme and plot in some way for her affections, mystery and suspense as they jockey and compete for position, as well as a twist or two in the plot to keep the reader guessing as to who will be chosen. Cara makes her decisions and her mistakes, influenced by events and those around her.
Readers will connect with the characters who are well developed and have different characteristics. You will root for your chosen favourite, especially between the two who compete most for Cara's affection. You will also pity and loathe others. And to add to what is a great first novel, there is also a killer ending I did not see coming.
I have to say this was a departure from my main genres as it contained adult scenes I usually do not read but I thoroughly enjoyed it and believe female lovers of fantasy and erotica will find this book very hard to put down. M/s Seabrook has crafted an original, professional and engaging piece of work which bodes extremely well for the future. I am sure this is only the beginning of a wonderful journey for her and look forward to reading more of her work.
October 11, 2015
Cara's Twelve, by Chantel Seabrook, was a wonderful surprise. Being a huge fan of 'A Song of Ice and Fire', I was scared I would unintentionally start comparing the two, and find Cara's Twelve lacking. Boy was I wrong! I was totally captivated by this medieval tale of adventure and romance.
The story centers around a matriarchal society where the Queen is actually an extension of the Goddess, Annul. When the presiding Queen's daughter is found to be barren and cannot continue the royal bloodline, her cousin, Cara, is chosen to be Queen. Cara wants nothing to do with this plan, but given no choice, she finally realizes 'her life is no longer her own.'
Forced into the role, she must now travel the twelve provinces, accompanied by a warrior chosen from each province...one of which will become her King. Provinces torn apart by war, treachery, deceit and assassinations. Never a dull moment for Cara! Add to that the turmoil of her mixed feelings for two of her twelve warriors, and you have the makings of a wonderful tale.
The narrative is crisp and real. It never seems stiff or forced at all. The characters are so well developed; they are easy to love and hate. The plot moves at a great pace and pulls you in, holding your attention from beginning to end. And the love scenes are beautifully written. Warning though, they may make you blush a little :) A great tale of castles, Queens and legends. I cannot wait to read more from this author. 5 out of 5 shiny stars!
The story centers around a matriarchal society where the Queen is actually an extension of the Goddess, Annul. When the presiding Queen's daughter is found to be barren and cannot continue the royal bloodline, her cousin, Cara, is chosen to be Queen. Cara wants nothing to do with this plan, but given no choice, she finally realizes 'her life is no longer her own.'
Forced into the role, she must now travel the twelve provinces, accompanied by a warrior chosen from each province...one of which will become her King. Provinces torn apart by war, treachery, deceit and assassinations. Never a dull moment for Cara! Add to that the turmoil of her mixed feelings for two of her twelve warriors, and you have the makings of a wonderful tale.
The narrative is crisp and real. It never seems stiff or forced at all. The characters are so well developed; they are easy to love and hate. The plot moves at a great pace and pulls you in, holding your attention from beginning to end. And the love scenes are beautifully written. Warning though, they may make you blush a little :) A great tale of castles, Queens and legends. I cannot wait to read more from this author. 5 out of 5 shiny stars!
September 19, 2015
whew...what an intense fantasy read. This was definitely not young adult. also, for my friends that like "safe" reads this is a hell no. the heroine, while technically isn't cheating (because all of the 12 men are dedicated to her and pledged their loyalty and faithfulness to her) does get a lot of action. from multiple partners that are in this group. there's was also a lot of death. It was pretty depressing. as soon as you got to know a character they were killed off. still, this was an intense read and I loved the writing style. It was even offered as a kindleunlimited. I wasn't pleased with the ending, I just wanted more, but it was still a really good, and original fantasy.
September 15, 2015
Whoa
This book has my emotions so mixed up I'm not sure if I should be crying or smiling. Two men, one queen and she loved them both and so did I. Damn it! Tahdaon is the strong, silent type, a fierce and strong warrior unwilling to express his feelings. Finn also a strong warrior is not afraid to express is love for Queen Cara and he excepts her feelings for Tahdaon. Who she will end up with will shock you at the end as it shocked me. This tale grips you from beginning to end by the flawless writing, the engaging scenes and the amazing love story of three.
This book has my emotions so mixed up I'm not sure if I should be crying or smiling. Two men, one queen and she loved them both and so did I. Damn it! Tahdaon is the strong, silent type, a fierce and strong warrior unwilling to express his feelings. Finn also a strong warrior is not afraid to express is love for Queen Cara and he excepts her feelings for Tahdaon. Who she will end up with will shock you at the end as it shocked me. This tale grips you from beginning to end by the flawless writing, the engaging scenes and the amazing love story of three.
June 9, 2019
This novel had, in my eyes, potential to be much better than it was. I think I am greatly outnumbered in terms of my thoughts regarding this novel. Most reviewers have given it effusive praise, and I respect their opinions although I may not share them myself. Deciding to abstain from ranting and aimlessly raving, I have compiled a lengthy list of my thoughts expressed for all to read below.
1. Despite an original premise featuring a matrilineal succession of Elbia's crown and a weird spousal selection process very much like the Bachelorette, this novel falls on very familiar tropes. Many characters are basically caricatures of what we all see in every single YA novel.
Birkita was the default evil queen who has no actual, substantial motive for all of the things she does. She kills her previous children *because power*, physically and mentally abuses her daughter *just because*, and then leaves the said daughter to be tortured and left for dead in the dungeons *because why not?*. I mean, listen to this wholly original and completely enlightening gem:
"There is only one thing in this world worth having. Power. Without it you are nothing but a pawn to be used and discarded." Ugh.
The main character herself is a caricature of every single YA novel ever. Cara is a brown haired, brown eyed Caucasian who obviously thinks she's not so pretty despite being around so many boys who thinks she's so hawttt and make their lusty feelings known. To make it worse, she's also that girl in nearly every single YA book who is all like "No man tells me what to do" - despite the fact that some pieces of advice, or lifesaving instructions, are actually legitimate things she should do. Like, the time she lost control of her horse, and despite being saved, screamed “Let go of my horse!”: because being thrown off an unstable animal and falling to her death was much worse than being a metre within some guy she was angry with. And we’re told that she is intelligent.
She’s also motherless
A note on YA orphans: What is it with making every single YA heroine an orphan? Sometimes it works very well, because some authors have the literary prowess to convey how deprived their heroines are due to the absence of a parental figure. Unfortunately for me, Chantel Seabrook (and most YA authors too) is not one of them. First her mother is dead and then her father dies and I’m supposed to be like, “Oh, my bleeding heart! That poor, sad child!”, but she just takes it in her stride. I mean, her father died a horrible death – he had a heart failure after being told that his daughter died and then we’re all supposed to just swallow it all up. Ugh.
Also, the main love interests also always end up being the golden, upright leader boy versus the piercing-watchful-gaze broody dark horse. There’s also a bonus nerdy friend with red hair. (The presence of Efy, a third party who Cara had casual flings with, alleviated the stifling, predictable drama of Finn v Tahdeon and was shown in an empowering light which I concede was a positive aspect in the novel. )
2. The second thing that really got to me was complete absence of logic and human reactions by nearly every single character in this novel . Ugh.
Firstly, she comes to find out that the leader of her nation, Birkita, is a crazy evil pyscho and then leaves to wander around with twelve hawwtt guys all around the country for two years. I don’t care if it’s tradition and the way you become queen. It doesn’t make sense that a council AND a king that listened to her when she told them to arrest the queen for murdering her daughter would then not listen to her if she decided to declare a state of emergency and go back to the capital city or to safety before she reached Ashwater, where she knew she’d be surrounded and arrested by hostile forces. She didn’t have to visit every single province, especially when one was practically destroyed by the Queen and her allies.
And despite the people of Elbia worshiping a female deity and having a female royal line, why are all of the women so unempowered in their society? This doesn't make sense. They either face terrible violence like Cush’s sister and Wynne, or harassment like Cara – who is the queen! She is still constantly accosted by Edmund, despite being queen! If your world worships a female goddess and had female rulers, why can’t any of your female characters even ride their horse properly or just learn how to defend themselves with a small dagger or something? Ugh.
Also, so many people die horrible and pitiful deaths and it flies over the heads of everyone! Cara! Your kingdom is disintegrating! Batch was raped and murdered horribly! Cara! Cush’s family holding was invaded, his parents were murdered by a mob! His sister was raped! His little brother was slaughtered! You lost your most powerful and wealthy allies! Look, Cush just died in front of you too! Your father died because he thought you died! Why the hell are you making love next to a waterfall?! You need to get to safety! You are wasting time!
A note on waterfall make out sessions: Whenever there is a waterfall and scenic isolated lake, the author always conveniently has their couple there.
I was also disappointed with the female characters of the story, but I understand that a standalone novel with so many characters runs the risk of having shallow characters. There was the bland and timid Mauve, who is not supposed to be as remarkable as the main character. However, Mauve has a very human outburst, understandably, after being tortured and mistreated by her mother for years.
Mauve snapping at Cara is regarded as an insult to our poor main heroine, who feels so hurt that she dramatically runs away. We’re meant to feel sympathy for Cara but I’m annoyed that she is the one I’m encouraged to see as a victim.
3. Lastly, if the author went to the trouble of writing about so many regions for the purposes of world building, she could have described settings a little more. I know this is a standalone novel and she cannot get into too much detail, but just mentioning little idiosyncrasies like subtle differences in customs, peculiarities in architecture, clothing would have enhanced the reading experience and showcased the author’s imagination. Instead, it’s just this region is poor, this region is rich, this region has scantily clad serving girls because their Viceroy is a lecherous misogynist etc.
Also, her final battle speech. Not very rousing. It felt bland and unoriginal and not as emotive as we're told it is. Here's a link to a really good battle rally speech:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BtLB7...
The end of the novel, where Cara chooses her spouse, surprised me though. I was impressed by what I had regarded as a deeply unremarkable character’s decision. Cara gained some semblance of wisdom. After two years.
1. Despite an original premise featuring a matrilineal succession of Elbia's crown and a weird spousal selection process very much like the Bachelorette, this novel falls on very familiar tropes. Many characters are basically caricatures of what we all see in every single YA novel.
Birkita was the default evil queen who has no actual, substantial motive for all of the things she does. She kills her previous children *because power*, physically and mentally abuses her daughter *just because*, and then leaves the said daughter to be tortured and left for dead in the dungeons *because why not?*. I mean, listen to this wholly original and completely enlightening gem:
"There is only one thing in this world worth having. Power. Without it you are nothing but a pawn to be used and discarded." Ugh.
The main character herself is a caricature of every single YA novel ever. Cara is a brown haired, brown eyed Caucasian who obviously thinks she's not so pretty despite being around so many boys who thinks she's so hawttt and make their lusty feelings known. To make it worse, she's also that girl in nearly every single YA book who is all like "No man tells me what to do" - despite the fact that some pieces of advice, or lifesaving instructions, are actually legitimate things she should do. Like, the time she lost control of her horse, and despite being saved, screamed “Let go of my horse!”: because being thrown off an unstable animal and falling to her death was much worse than being a metre within some guy she was angry with. And we’re told that she is intelligent.
She’s also motherless
A note on YA orphans: What is it with making every single YA heroine an orphan? Sometimes it works very well, because some authors have the literary prowess to convey how deprived their heroines are due to the absence of a parental figure. Unfortunately for me, Chantel Seabrook (and most YA authors too) is not one of them. First her mother is dead and then her father dies and I’m supposed to be like, “Oh, my bleeding heart! That poor, sad child!”, but she just takes it in her stride. I mean, her father died a horrible death – he had a heart failure after being told that his daughter died and then we’re all supposed to just swallow it all up. Ugh.
Also, the main love interests also always end up being the golden, upright leader boy versus the piercing-watchful-gaze broody dark horse. There’s also a bonus nerdy friend with red hair. (The presence of Efy, a third party who Cara had casual flings with, alleviated the stifling, predictable drama of Finn v Tahdeon and was shown in an empowering light which I concede was a positive aspect in the novel. )
2. The second thing that really got to me was complete absence of logic and human reactions by nearly every single character in this novel . Ugh.
Firstly, she comes to find out that the leader of her nation, Birkita, is a crazy evil pyscho and then leaves to wander around with twelve hawwtt guys all around the country for two years. I don’t care if it’s tradition and the way you become queen. It doesn’t make sense that a council AND a king that listened to her when she told them to arrest the queen for murdering her daughter would then not listen to her if she decided to declare a state of emergency and go back to the capital city or to safety before she reached Ashwater, where she knew she’d be surrounded and arrested by hostile forces. She didn’t have to visit every single province, especially when one was practically destroyed by the Queen and her allies.
And despite the people of Elbia worshiping a female deity and having a female royal line, why are all of the women so unempowered in their society? This doesn't make sense. They either face terrible violence like Cush’s sister and Wynne, or harassment like Cara – who is the queen! She is still constantly accosted by Edmund, despite being queen! If your world worships a female goddess and had female rulers, why can’t any of your female characters even ride their horse properly or just learn how to defend themselves with a small dagger or something? Ugh.
Also, so many people die horrible and pitiful deaths and it flies over the heads of everyone! Cara! Your kingdom is disintegrating! Batch was raped and murdered horribly! Cara! Cush’s family holding was invaded, his parents were murdered by a mob! His sister was raped! His little brother was slaughtered! You lost your most powerful and wealthy allies! Look, Cush just died in front of you too! Your father died because he thought you died! Why the hell are you making love next to a waterfall?! You need to get to safety! You are wasting time!
A note on waterfall make out sessions: Whenever there is a waterfall and scenic isolated lake, the author always conveniently has their couple there.
I was also disappointed with the female characters of the story, but I understand that a standalone novel with so many characters runs the risk of having shallow characters. There was the bland and timid Mauve, who is not supposed to be as remarkable as the main character. However, Mauve has a very human outburst, understandably, after being tortured and mistreated by her mother for years.
Mauve snapping at Cara is regarded as an insult to our poor main heroine, who feels so hurt that she dramatically runs away. We’re meant to feel sympathy for Cara but I’m annoyed that she is the one I’m encouraged to see as a victim.
3. Lastly, if the author went to the trouble of writing about so many regions for the purposes of world building, she could have described settings a little more. I know this is a standalone novel and she cannot get into too much detail, but just mentioning little idiosyncrasies like subtle differences in customs, peculiarities in architecture, clothing would have enhanced the reading experience and showcased the author’s imagination. Instead, it’s just this region is poor, this region is rich, this region has scantily clad serving girls because their Viceroy is a lecherous misogynist etc.
Also, her final battle speech. Not very rousing. It felt bland and unoriginal and not as emotive as we're told it is. Here's a link to a really good battle rally speech:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BtLB7...
The end of the novel, where Cara chooses her spouse, surprised me though. I was impressed by what I had regarded as a deeply unremarkable character’s decision. Cara gained some semblance of wisdom. After two years.
September 15, 2015
This was a five-star fantasy read, but a two-star romance read, so I will settle in the middle with 3.5 stars rounded to four. Fantasy readers will devour this book and enjoy every second of it, but if your primary genre is romance (like me), then this book is a little tougher on your literary sensibilities. Cara's Twelve was a page-turner, and I couldn't rush through it fast enough. However, the end left me with a heartache, and a search through the author's website doesn't indicate if this book is the end of Cara's story or just an interlude.
Backwater heir-to-throne Cara finds herself suddenly thrust into the intrigue of the Elbian court with the illness of her cousin. She is naive and unprepared, but is convinced by her childhood friend that she can do good for her impoverished region with the power she can wield. Seabrook crafts an interesting mythology, with a matriarchal lineage for the crown that has ties to a goddess belief system that is both sensual and mystical. Like modern times, the people of the Elbian provinces manipulate religion to advance their purposes, and this has a strong influence on the plot of the novel. Each of the twelve provinces provides a high-born man suitable to be a consort and the prospect to be king. Elbia is a large monarchy and not all provinces are equal, but then neither are the consorts. Each man becomes a character integral to the novel, which sets up both the political and romantic conflicts.
This book moves at an incredibly quick pace, and Seabrook smartly begins to separate the consorts with potential and those less... appealing... to the sensual side of Cara. However, Cara quickly learns that she must deal not only with the consorts, but with their powerful families and countless alliances. All this becomes very dangerous as the consort caravan winds its way through the provinces, performing the required sacred ceremonies. Not all will survive.
Seabrook's exposition of romance in this book is very much based on the notion of chivalry, but with a sensual edge forced by adherence to the goddess Annul's ceremonies. And to keep the peace, Cara must be equitable in her consideration of each consort. This is where the romance falters, because the heart goes where it wants to go, but politics keep interfering. Also, each of these men is flawed enough that nobody at first seems absolutely suited to be king. It is confusing to Cara, and muddies the clear path to love that romance-genre aficionados expect.
This book was filled with adventure, conspiracy, and violence, motivated by either a desire for power or a desire for love. Seabrook does an excellent job of outlining each person's motivations because she has also drawn a myriad of robust characters. This book does not bog down for an instant and is filled with both heart-wrenching and exhilarating moments. Your satisfaction at the end will depend on whether you are primarily a fantasy reader or a romance reader.
Backwater heir-to-throne Cara finds herself suddenly thrust into the intrigue of the Elbian court with the illness of her cousin. She is naive and unprepared, but is convinced by her childhood friend that she can do good for her impoverished region with the power she can wield. Seabrook crafts an interesting mythology, with a matriarchal lineage for the crown that has ties to a goddess belief system that is both sensual and mystical. Like modern times, the people of the Elbian provinces manipulate religion to advance their purposes, and this has a strong influence on the plot of the novel. Each of the twelve provinces provides a high-born man suitable to be a consort and the prospect to be king. Elbia is a large monarchy and not all provinces are equal, but then neither are the consorts. Each man becomes a character integral to the novel, which sets up both the political and romantic conflicts.
This book moves at an incredibly quick pace, and Seabrook smartly begins to separate the consorts with potential and those less... appealing... to the sensual side of Cara. However, Cara quickly learns that she must deal not only with the consorts, but with their powerful families and countless alliances. All this becomes very dangerous as the consort caravan winds its way through the provinces, performing the required sacred ceremonies. Not all will survive.
Seabrook's exposition of romance in this book is very much based on the notion of chivalry, but with a sensual edge forced by adherence to the goddess Annul's ceremonies. And to keep the peace, Cara must be equitable in her consideration of each consort. This is where the romance falters, because the heart goes where it wants to go, but politics keep interfering. Also, each of these men is flawed enough that nobody at first seems absolutely suited to be king. It is confusing to Cara, and muddies the clear path to love that romance-genre aficionados expect.
This book was filled with adventure, conspiracy, and violence, motivated by either a desire for power or a desire for love. Seabrook does an excellent job of outlining each person's motivations because she has also drawn a myriad of robust characters. This book does not bog down for an instant and is filled with both heart-wrenching and exhilarating moments. Your satisfaction at the end will depend on whether you are primarily a fantasy reader or a romance reader.
June 25, 2015
Cara’s Twelve by Chantel Seabrook is a well-crafted Shakespearean tragedy set in a medieval land where deception, treachery and murder mark a bloody path to the Elbian throne. It has been decreed that an heir to the throne be anointed, and Cara of Crowthorne appears to be the chosen one. Only the reigning King and the treacherous Queen have their own agenda, and each sow seeds of betrayal designed to eliminate Cara from the internecine competition. Tradition decrees that a representative from each of the twelve provinces of Elbia be afforded a chance to court the lady in waiting, the winner crowned as King alongside the new Queen. More than one of these men are agents given the task of eliminating their rivals, and it becomes apparent that Cara herself may become one of the victims.
Seabrook weaves a clever tale of suspense and intrigue as we find Cara in competition with her own cousin, the fair Maeve. Only Maeve becomes one of the first victims which causes the twelve suitors to take sides in the conflict. Finn and Tahdaon are the major protagonists, stepping up to protect and defend the cousins as the conspiracy begins to take shape. Edmund is dynamic as the major antagonist, his strategy and tactics evolving from menacing innuendo to ruthless predation as the conflict unfolds. Eventually the storyline erupts into a thrilling climax as Cara and Maeve find their very lives at stake. The suitors are forced to stake their claims with their own lives in the balance.
This is a breath of fresh air, a throwback to the days of myth and legend, devoid of wizards and dragons. This is all about fair maidens and fearless warriors and their pursuit of their dreams and destinies. Pick up a copy of Cara’s Twelve by Chantel Seabrook and enjoy the romance and adventure of centuries past.
Seabrook weaves a clever tale of suspense and intrigue as we find Cara in competition with her own cousin, the fair Maeve. Only Maeve becomes one of the first victims which causes the twelve suitors to take sides in the conflict. Finn and Tahdaon are the major protagonists, stepping up to protect and defend the cousins as the conspiracy begins to take shape. Edmund is dynamic as the major antagonist, his strategy and tactics evolving from menacing innuendo to ruthless predation as the conflict unfolds. Eventually the storyline erupts into a thrilling climax as Cara and Maeve find their very lives at stake. The suitors are forced to stake their claims with their own lives in the balance.
This is a breath of fresh air, a throwback to the days of myth and legend, devoid of wizards and dragons. This is all about fair maidens and fearless warriors and their pursuit of their dreams and destinies. Pick up a copy of Cara’s Twelve by Chantel Seabrook and enjoy the romance and adventure of centuries past.
September 14, 2015
A Suspensful Romantic Fantasy!
Cara's Twelve has that perfect entanglement of romance, suspense, and action all set in a beautifully crafted fantasy world.
I loved the plot of the story. A poor girl (Cara) thrust unexpectedly into the life of a Princess and soon to be Queen. But what makes it different and even more intriguing are Cara's twelve consorts and the rituals behind how one is to be chosen as her King. Through the Twelve you get a more in-depth look into the world created for you and how each province differs from the next in beauty, customs, status, wealth, and loyalty to their soon to be Queen.
If you think love triangles are heartbreakingly suspenseful then hold on to your knickers because of course there's bound to be lots of heartache, blooming love, and holly-cow-I-was-not-expecting-that-to-happen moments when one woman is to choose from twelve men. Granted not all the men are worthy, but it's still an interesting ride. My favorite parts of the story were getting to travel to all the different lands and learn their customs and how each would perceive and celebrate the Goddess Annul in their own way.
Overall a very good read. If you like Romance set into a Fantasy world of Kings and Queens and a femal MC with a backbone then check out Cara's Twelve by Chantel Seabrook.
**I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review**
Cara's Twelve has that perfect entanglement of romance, suspense, and action all set in a beautifully crafted fantasy world.
I loved the plot of the story. A poor girl (Cara) thrust unexpectedly into the life of a Princess and soon to be Queen. But what makes it different and even more intriguing are Cara's twelve consorts and the rituals behind how one is to be chosen as her King. Through the Twelve you get a more in-depth look into the world created for you and how each province differs from the next in beauty, customs, status, wealth, and loyalty to their soon to be Queen.
If you think love triangles are heartbreakingly suspenseful then hold on to your knickers because of course there's bound to be lots of heartache, blooming love, and holly-cow-I-was-not-expecting-that-to-happen moments when one woman is to choose from twelve men. Granted not all the men are worthy, but it's still an interesting ride. My favorite parts of the story were getting to travel to all the different lands and learn their customs and how each would perceive and celebrate the Goddess Annul in their own way.
Overall a very good read. If you like Romance set into a Fantasy world of Kings and Queens and a femal MC with a backbone then check out Cara's Twelve by Chantel Seabrook.
**I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review**
July 20, 2015
This debut novel has all the elements I look for in a good read. Her settings are well described where they need to be but she does not dwell on unnecessary detail. The plot moves smoothly and the pace and tension kept me glued to the pages. It had intrigue, suspense, lots of action and kept me guessing. There were a couple of outcomes I could predict but those did not detract as they had to happen for the story to work. Her three main characters, Cara, Finn and Tahdaon were well developed and grew as the plot moved forward. I found myself liking and caring about them, as well as some of the lesser characters. Her antagonist was satisfyingly evil. My preference as a reader is always to lean to character over plot. This book had a nice balance between them so I could have my cake and eat it, too, so to speak.
If there was one hint I would give Seabrook it would be that not all men rake their hands through their hair quite so frequently.
Seabrook has written an engaging, compelling novel. I look forward to reading more from her as her style matures. She is a promising new author.
If there was one hint I would give Seabrook it would be that not all men rake their hands through their hair quite so frequently.
Seabrook has written an engaging, compelling novel. I look forward to reading more from her as her style matures. She is a promising new author.
January 15, 2017
I have missed high fantasies that I love!
It was lovely reacquainting myself with this genre again.
It was lovely reacquainting myself with this genre again.
September 10, 2017
4.5 stars. I'm still raging! What the hell was that ending?! Why why why why why?!?! I LOVED this book. There was such heartbreak and hope and it was such an emotional rollercoaster I think I need to go and grab a cup of tea to recover....
Okay, tea acquired, moving on.
The first 85-ish% of the book is brilliant, wondrous, marvellous, spectacular. In fact, it all is. But the reason I can't give it that last half a star is - despite how it made sense to do so - at the end Cara became such a duty-obsessed Queen. She didn't want the crown to start with, then sacrificed so many people she loved for it and then at the end, still ends up with half a broken heart to show for it. It all seemed just a little too unfair. I wanted her to come up with a way to have two kings.
Romances like this are supposed to be like fairy tales - miracles are accepted and encouraged. I don't care if it might have had to been a miracle handed down from the goddess Annul herself, Cara should have had Tahdaon and Finn!
Gah I need more tea.
Okay, tea acquired, moving on.
The first 85-ish% of the book is brilliant, wondrous, marvellous, spectacular. In fact, it all is. But the reason I can't give it that last half a star is - despite how it made sense to do so - at the end Cara became such a duty-obsessed Queen. She didn't want the crown to start with, then sacrificed so many people she loved for it and then at the end, still ends up with half a broken heart to show for it. It all seemed just a little too unfair. I wanted her to come up with a way to have two kings.
Romances like this are supposed to be like fairy tales - miracles are accepted and encouraged. I don't care if it might have had to been a miracle handed down from the goddess Annul herself, Cara should have had Tahdaon and Finn!
Gah I need more tea.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 20, 2018
Okay so..... I wasn't expecting much for a free read, but I really liked it. There wasn't as much depth to the world or the characters as I prefer, but I liked the story. I would absolutely read a sequel if there was one.
August 28, 2015
Oh my gosh! I don't even know where to begin. I LOVED this book! The crazy thing is... I did not expect to like it this much.
Let me explain.
When I started reading Cara's Twelve, I found the story interesting, but was not immediately hooked. I met Cara and was thrust in this world where female rulers have all the authority (fan of that), and Cara is suddenly next in line for the throne. Read it before, right?
THEN... I met the twelve! That's when all the fun began.
Cara, as the future goddess-blessed ruler, gets 12 consorts to escort her through her realm as she receives vows of fealty from the 12 regions. During this tour, she gets the chance to learn about the men and ultimately select one to be her husband and future king. All the while, dealing with the political turmoil she will inevitably inherit along with the crown.
Chantel Seabrook continues the story with enthralling character interactions, surprisingly detailed and unexpected intrigues and plot twists, not to mention both heartwarming and heart-wrenching romances with certain members of her twelve. I could not put this book down!
Also noteworthy was how the book ended. A significant number of the questions I had while reading (regarding the characters' fates) were wrapped up in a well-written and satisfying way (to me at least). I was not left biting my nails with a thousand questions. I was okay with how things worked out. It stayed true to all we learned about the politics and relevant characters' selves.
However, that does not mean I am not eagerly awaiting the continuation.
If there is one...
Oh gosh, I hope there is one!
In short, Cara's Twelve is fantastic! Might have started slow to me, but it soon picked up and became a favorite. Please do yourself a favor and read this book. You won't regret it.
Chantel, Brava!
MAYBE SPOILER? Not really sure if it is, but wanted to give you a chance to look away just in case!
I don't know how Chantel Seabrook managed it, but she divided my heart with this book. I have never before read a story with a love triangle where I did not favor one guy over the other. At first, I was all about Finn. He was perfect: all about Cara, handsome, loyal, etc. To me, I could not imagine Cara even considering anyone else. Then, in walks Tahdaon, with his complicated personality and conflicted emotions. I couldn't help but to root for him to find happiness with Cara. Then Finn comes back in, making me remember how nice and reliable he is. But wait... then Tahdoan says or does something so sweet it tugged at my heart wanting him to get his happy ending. I experienced such a roller-coaster of emotion it wasn't even funny.
In the interest of complete disclosure, I did find numerous typos and simple mistakes in grammar that are easily done when writing a 300+ page book. Luckily, the errors did not deter me from thoroughly enjoying the story. Had the plot not been so engrossing, it probably would have bothered me more.
Let me explain.
When I started reading Cara's Twelve, I found the story interesting, but was not immediately hooked. I met Cara and was thrust in this world where female rulers have all the authority (fan of that), and Cara is suddenly next in line for the throne. Read it before, right?
THEN... I met the twelve! That's when all the fun began.
Cara, as the future goddess-blessed ruler, gets 12 consorts to escort her through her realm as she receives vows of fealty from the 12 regions. During this tour, she gets the chance to learn about the men and ultimately select one to be her husband and future king. All the while, dealing with the political turmoil she will inevitably inherit along with the crown.
Chantel Seabrook continues the story with enthralling character interactions, surprisingly detailed and unexpected intrigues and plot twists, not to mention both heartwarming and heart-wrenching romances with certain members of her twelve. I could not put this book down!
Also noteworthy was how the book ended. A significant number of the questions I had while reading (regarding the characters' fates) were wrapped up in a well-written and satisfying way (to me at least). I was not left biting my nails with a thousand questions. I was okay with how things worked out. It stayed true to all we learned about the politics and relevant characters' selves.
However, that does not mean I am not eagerly awaiting the continuation.
If there is one...
Oh gosh, I hope there is one!
In short, Cara's Twelve is fantastic! Might have started slow to me, but it soon picked up and became a favorite. Please do yourself a favor and read this book. You won't regret it.
Chantel, Brava!
MAYBE SPOILER? Not really sure if it is, but wanted to give you a chance to look away just in case!
I don't know how Chantel Seabrook managed it, but she divided my heart with this book. I have never before read a story with a love triangle where I did not favor one guy over the other. At first, I was all about Finn. He was perfect: all about Cara, handsome, loyal, etc. To me, I could not imagine Cara even considering anyone else. Then, in walks Tahdaon, with his complicated personality and conflicted emotions. I couldn't help but to root for him to find happiness with Cara. Then Finn comes back in, making me remember how nice and reliable he is. But wait... then Tahdoan says or does something so sweet it tugged at my heart wanting him to get his happy ending. I experienced such a roller-coaster of emotion it wasn't even funny.
In the interest of complete disclosure, I did find numerous typos and simple mistakes in grammar that are easily done when writing a 300+ page book. Luckily, the errors did not deter me from thoroughly enjoying the story. Had the plot not been so engrossing, it probably would have bothered me more.
July 8, 2015
Cara's Twelve by Chantel Seabrook revolves around Cara, the future queen of Elbia. As a direct descendant of Goddess Annul, she has been appointed by the High Priestess and the Queen's Council as the heir apparent. One man from each of the twelve provinces is also chosen as a potential consort to the future queen. Cara has to now choose the future king of Elbia from these twelve men. She also has to visit all the twelve provinces with these men and perform a sacred ceremony. As she gets to know these men more, she realizes that they are not as good as they seem and some of them are only interested in power. Will Cara be able to choose the future king of Elbia from the twelve men?
The author has woven together romance, mystery, whimsy, intrigue and adventure very well. Cara's reluctance to be the future queen of Elbia and the realization that her life is not going to be in her hands anymore will make readers feel for Cara and her plight. There are twists and turns in the plot as the story progresses, and the author masterfully blends the sub plots into the main plot. The characters are all well portrayed and they lend strength and credibility to the scenes. The narration is detailed and Cara's trip to the twelve provinces is descriptive and interesting. The book has everything that makes it a compelling story. It's fast paced and readers will not be able to put it down.
The author has woven together romance, mystery, whimsy, intrigue and adventure very well. Cara's reluctance to be the future queen of Elbia and the realization that her life is not going to be in her hands anymore will make readers feel for Cara and her plight. There are twists and turns in the plot as the story progresses, and the author masterfully blends the sub plots into the main plot. The characters are all well portrayed and they lend strength and credibility to the scenes. The narration is detailed and Cara's trip to the twelve provinces is descriptive and interesting. The book has everything that makes it a compelling story. It's fast paced and readers will not be able to put it down.
August 5, 2015
The Bachelorette meets the Magical Mystery Tour
In a land where the haves had plenty and the have-nots floundered, CaraLynne is summoned to the capitol by the high priestess to be her heir apparent. Holy moly! Cara will be the next Queen, instead of her barren cousin. Due to her lineage, there’s no refusing this terrible honor. She travels to the royal court in the Holy City of Anuul and undergoes the rites that bind her to her 12 champions.
According to tradition, she will travel with her 12 suitors to each of their countries within the realm. When she has visited all the places, she will then return to the Holy City for her coronation. The process is an eye-opener for an innocent maiden.
Rivalry among the men for Cara’s favor disturbs her at first, then she gets into the swing of dating them. Then civil unrest leads to civil war and her tour is disrupted. Can the blood of the goddess save them?
I thought Cara’s Twelve was a lot like The Bachelorette meets the Magical Mystery Tour. Ms. Seabrook crafts a powerful tale, epic in scope, with a ripe sensuality that was unexpected and a twist of mythology. A heady brew of lust for power, this tale shows the lengths people will go to achieve their need for power, and it showcases the changing power of love.
Maggie Toussaint and Rigel Carson for Muddy Rose Reviews
In a land where the haves had plenty and the have-nots floundered, CaraLynne is summoned to the capitol by the high priestess to be her heir apparent. Holy moly! Cara will be the next Queen, instead of her barren cousin. Due to her lineage, there’s no refusing this terrible honor. She travels to the royal court in the Holy City of Anuul and undergoes the rites that bind her to her 12 champions.
According to tradition, she will travel with her 12 suitors to each of their countries within the realm. When she has visited all the places, she will then return to the Holy City for her coronation. The process is an eye-opener for an innocent maiden.
Rivalry among the men for Cara’s favor disturbs her at first, then she gets into the swing of dating them. Then civil unrest leads to civil war and her tour is disrupted. Can the blood of the goddess save them?
I thought Cara’s Twelve was a lot like The Bachelorette meets the Magical Mystery Tour. Ms. Seabrook crafts a powerful tale, epic in scope, with a ripe sensuality that was unexpected and a twist of mythology. A heady brew of lust for power, this tale shows the lengths people will go to achieve their need for power, and it showcases the changing power of love.
Maggie Toussaint and Rigel Carson for Muddy Rose Reviews
August 31, 2015
I borrowed this book on Kindle Unlimited and read it in ONE sitting! From the start, the book gave me a "Game of Thrones" feeling. The reigning queen is forceful, conniving and manipulative. The council has ruled that the heir apparent is ill and barren, therefore it transfers the title of heir to Cara who does not want such a title. Cara faces numerous obstacles in preparing for her new role, but from the start of the book, we know the "Cersei"-like reigning Queen has no intention of making life easy for her. Along the way, we meet two very different men who could possibly be her destined love. I'm not even usually a romance reader, yet I loved how the scene was described the first time she kissed one of the characters. Without the dragons and magic, this book has all of the best of Game of Thrones and none of it's pitfalls.
I found this to be a well written, well thought book that neatly wrapped up the story and characters at the end. Some others mentioned a lot of grammar and spelling issues that pulled them from the story. Either the book has been edited or I was too engrossed with the story to notice or care. This is a great read for anyone who loves historical fiction (as I do, because the magic and dragons are missing), fantasy, or romance. Kudos Ms. Seabrook.
I found this to be a well written, well thought book that neatly wrapped up the story and characters at the end. Some others mentioned a lot of grammar and spelling issues that pulled them from the story. Either the book has been edited or I was too engrossed with the story to notice or care. This is a great read for anyone who loves historical fiction (as I do, because the magic and dragons are missing), fantasy, or romance. Kudos Ms. Seabrook.
July 3, 2016
One queen, twelve consorts dedicating themselves to her for life, nearly two years of travel to visit all provinces of her kingdom and only one consort able to be chosen by her as king…well…Cara has a big task in front of her not only in the choosing of her life companion but also in learning about her kingdom and how best to rule it.
Cara has not been raised to be queen and is not interested in the position. She is, however, compelled to begin the process of becoming queen when her cousin Maeve is found barren. With a cruel and selfish queen on the throne and traitors working against her she begins her life’s journey unsure of what the future will hold.
This was a well written, complex, emotion-filled romantic fantasy that was unique and fascinating. In this novel there were cruelties and kindnesses, understandings and misunderstandings, love and hate, births and murders, loyalties and betrayals, promises made and broken…and a whole lot more.
The story left me thinking and feeling and wishing I could foresee the future of Cara, her consorts, her children and her country.
I would like to thank NetGalley and Creativa for the copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Cara has not been raised to be queen and is not interested in the position. She is, however, compelled to begin the process of becoming queen when her cousin Maeve is found barren. With a cruel and selfish queen on the throne and traitors working against her she begins her life’s journey unsure of what the future will hold.
This was a well written, complex, emotion-filled romantic fantasy that was unique and fascinating. In this novel there were cruelties and kindnesses, understandings and misunderstandings, love and hate, births and murders, loyalties and betrayals, promises made and broken…and a whole lot more.
The story left me thinking and feeling and wishing I could foresee the future of Cara, her consorts, her children and her country.
I would like to thank NetGalley and Creativa for the copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
September 19, 2015
Cara must take her cousins place as heir to the throne. From each of the twelve provinces one man will be recruited to serve and protect her impending highness. These men will swear an oath to lay down all they have, their weapons as well as their entire existences―their lives, to serve this noble lady. One of these men she will pick to be her king. Care will doubt everything she has known to be true. The lives of Cara, Maeve and the last of the suitors will be in jeopardy. What will become of Noble family and of the Empire? I found the narrative fine-tuned, steady paced, and containing abundant twists and turns. It is a well written fantasy tale, of a beautiful young queen to be, and her valiant, handsome warriors. Congratulations Chantel, for your well written debut fantasy novel. Recommended for 18 and older, due to adult subject matter.
February 10, 2017
This book was must certainly not what I was expecting... mostly in a good way. It was full of action, mystery, and romance. (A few love triangles that had me side-eyeing the book, but whatever.) At times Cara was so strong and made really tough choices, but other times she acted so childish, and she stomped off or huffed away too many times. There were many love stories going on in the book, although I didn't agree with who she ultimately choose in the end, I understood her dilemma in making the decision. The abuses and murders that happened in this book shocked me. I was not expecting it when I starting reading this book and they were heartbreaking. Although there wasn't a cliffhanger, I wonder if there'll be a book 2.
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