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Queenmakers Saga #5
The Elf King's Lady
In the midst of a war between elves and men, two unlikely companions find love. But in this battle of ages, can they defy the very blood that courses through their veins?
The human kingdom of Thorius is once again under threat from the dark elven menace. General Kain Jazara has sworn to protect Thorius from all danger, magical or otherwise – but first he must rescue the highborn family of alluring healer Lady Alique Zorba.
Thrown together in their quest to save Alique's family, and eventually themselves, from the merciless elven clan, the pragmatic General and the impulsive Lady Alique discover an undeniable passion. But when Kain's world is torn apart by a personal revelation, he turns his back on both Alique and his homeland.
Can Kain find a path back to love and victory in time? Or will he allow revelations from his family's mysterious past to destroy his relationship, his happiness, and his kingdom?
Perfect for fans of Nalini Singh and C.L. Wilson.
The human kingdom of Thorius is once again under threat from the dark elven menace. General Kain Jazara has sworn to protect Thorius from all danger, magical or otherwise – but first he must rescue the highborn family of alluring healer Lady Alique Zorba.
Thrown together in their quest to save Alique's family, and eventually themselves, from the merciless elven clan, the pragmatic General and the impulsive Lady Alique discover an undeniable passion. But when Kain's world is torn apart by a personal revelation, he turns his back on both Alique and his homeland.
Can Kain find a path back to love and victory in time? Or will he allow revelations from his family's mysterious past to destroy his relationship, his happiness, and his kingdom?
Perfect for fans of Nalini Singh and C.L. Wilson.
ebook
Published November 1, 2015
15 people are currently reading
49 people want to read
About the author
Bernadette Rowley
16 books68 followersBernadette Rowley is an Australian epic fantasy romance author who is also a veterinarian. After flirting with picture books, junior fiction and space opera, Bernadette was challenged to write a romance in 2011 and she hasn’t looked back.
First published by Penguin Australia and then Pan Macmillan Australia, Bernadette is now an independently published author. The Queenmakers Saga contains twelve books spanning the genres of fantasy romance and romantic fantasy.
Her favorite tropes are enemies to lovers, forced proximity and forbidden romance. Strong themes include the horse/human bond and healing.
When not at her desk, Bernadette can be found absorbed in a good romance or romantic suspense, swimming, walking or having coffee with friends.
First published by Penguin Australia and then Pan Macmillan Australia, Bernadette is now an independently published author. The Queenmakers Saga contains twelve books spanning the genres of fantasy romance and romantic fantasy.
Her favorite tropes are enemies to lovers, forced proximity and forbidden romance. Strong themes include the horse/human bond and healing.
When not at her desk, Bernadette can be found absorbed in a good romance or romantic suspense, swimming, walking or having coffee with friends.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
dnf-set-aside-for-later
May 25, 2016DNF- 36%
Oh dear, I really wanted to like this one. I haven't read a fantasy romance in a long time.
First of all, and I will take the hit for this, I didn't realize this was part of a series or at least a group of books sharing the same world since it wasn't marked as such on the page I found, but I see that it is marked on another GR page as part of the Wildecoast Saga. Immediately, I felt dropped into an ongoing story. So when I investigated, I discovered that indeed, this is one of several books connected together by the same world. Once, I established this fact, I decided to keep reading. And though I stopped a third of the way along, I think it would be okay as a standalone or out of order though it hints strongly back to other characters and stories.
But, the heroine was the other thing that stuck in my craw. From the first moment and all the way through to the point I stopped, she annoyed the heck out of me. Spoiled, self-absorbed, petulant, temperamental, and so on. She does likeable things and isn't all bad, but for the most part there was little for me to like. She uses her rank to bully her way into a situation that she can't possibly contribute to or be of help which lands the hero in a tight spot trying to protect her and others. The first words out of her mouth most of the time are antagonistic or woefully naive (aka stupid) because she is generally taking a temper or getting riled. The hero is put between a rock and a hard place and she makes it worse. She is described as this fiery, strong, courageous type, but as can happen my observations of her words and actions didn't see her that way.
There was a final straw for me. The hero is going through a horrible crisis and she comes onto him. He tries to reasonably get her to realize that her proposition is bad timing, she's using him as a distraction, and she has no plans on a future with him b/c she is highborn and he is not. He tells her no more than once and even has to gently hold her back. She continues to push and seduce with not a care for the fact that he is a captured general with the weight of the whole kingdom on his shoulders, he is trying to keep her alive and find a way to get her free, he is being pressured that he will cooperate with the enemy with only a swift death his future, not to mention he is trying to come to terms with the possibility that he is not who he thought he was and that his real parent is someone else and dead. But does this matter to Little Miss Scratch My Itch? Nope. She has needs.
And that was it. Done. Just because he's male doesn't make it alright for her to ignore his clear and definite refusal and to take advantage of him in a hard, weak moment makes me boil.
Would have liked to know what happened in the war between humans and elves and how Kain dealt with his mixed heritage, but that stunt on the part of the heroine after a long line of annoyances ruined it.
So, I'm not going to tell people to avoid the book because its very possible that things I find annoying won't bother someone else and I think it might be a good fantasy romance. I'm bummed that it won't be for me.
I received this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
Oh dear, I really wanted to like this one. I haven't read a fantasy romance in a long time.
First of all, and I will take the hit for this, I didn't realize this was part of a series or at least a group of books sharing the same world since it wasn't marked as such on the page I found, but I see that it is marked on another GR page as part of the Wildecoast Saga. Immediately, I felt dropped into an ongoing story. So when I investigated, I discovered that indeed, this is one of several books connected together by the same world. Once, I established this fact, I decided to keep reading. And though I stopped a third of the way along, I think it would be okay as a standalone or out of order though it hints strongly back to other characters and stories.
But, the heroine was the other thing that stuck in my craw. From the first moment and all the way through to the point I stopped, she annoyed the heck out of me. Spoiled, self-absorbed, petulant, temperamental, and so on. She does likeable things and isn't all bad, but for the most part there was little for me to like. She uses her rank to bully her way into a situation that she can't possibly contribute to or be of help which lands the hero in a tight spot trying to protect her and others. The first words out of her mouth most of the time are antagonistic or woefully naive (aka stupid) because she is generally taking a temper or getting riled. The hero is put between a rock and a hard place and she makes it worse. She is described as this fiery, strong, courageous type, but as can happen my observations of her words and actions didn't see her that way.
There was a final straw for me. The hero is going through a horrible crisis and she comes onto him. He tries to reasonably get her to realize that her proposition is bad timing, she's using him as a distraction, and she has no plans on a future with him b/c she is highborn and he is not. He tells her no more than once and even has to gently hold her back. She continues to push and seduce with not a care for the fact that he is a captured general with the weight of the whole kingdom on his shoulders, he is trying to keep her alive and find a way to get her free, he is being pressured that he will cooperate with the enemy with only a swift death his future, not to mention he is trying to come to terms with the possibility that he is not who he thought he was and that his real parent is someone else and dead. But does this matter to Little Miss Scratch My Itch? Nope. She has needs.
And that was it. Done. Just because he's male doesn't make it alright for her to ignore his clear and definite refusal and to take advantage of him in a hard, weak moment makes me boil.
Would have liked to know what happened in the war between humans and elves and how Kain dealt with his mixed heritage, but that stunt on the part of the heroine after a long line of annoyances ruined it.
So, I'm not going to tell people to avoid the book because its very possible that things I find annoying won't bother someone else and I think it might be a good fantasy romance. I'm bummed that it won't be for me.
I received this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
March 14, 2021
In Bernadette Rowley's fifth book The Elf Kings Lady we see two characters from book four who now get their own story Lady Alique and Captain Kain Jazara. If you have been reading the series Lady Alique had the hot's for Nikolas but Nik already had his hand full with a mermaid. Now Lady Alique switches her focus from Nikolas to his best friend, Captain Kain.
The one thing that has stood out the most for me while reading the series is how Ms. Rowley has created really strong women in difficult roles. They all have gone through some form of torture whether it be physical or emotional and they preserver and love is the glue that holds everything together. Lady Alique is more then a soft pampered Lady to the Queen. She can hold her own, and was taught as a child how to survive outdoors if the need arises. Both Captain Kain and Lady Alique are very stubborn and we see them butt heads more then a few times. Ms. Rowley's men are all very deep, moody, sometimes pig headed but underneath it all is a hidden sensitivity trying to emerge. And it takes a strong women to get under their skin and help them see the hero and lover within.
What really surprised me was the match up of Captain Kain and Lady Alique, I didn't see that coming. Now I am really curious who will Bernadette match up in the rest of the series. If you love strong women and equally strong men, fantasy and romance combined with lots of adventure and steamy interludes you will love this series.
The one thing that has stood out the most for me while reading the series is how Ms. Rowley has created really strong women in difficult roles. They all have gone through some form of torture whether it be physical or emotional and they preserver and love is the glue that holds everything together. Lady Alique is more then a soft pampered Lady to the Queen. She can hold her own, and was taught as a child how to survive outdoors if the need arises. Both Captain Kain and Lady Alique are very stubborn and we see them butt heads more then a few times. Ms. Rowley's men are all very deep, moody, sometimes pig headed but underneath it all is a hidden sensitivity trying to emerge. And it takes a strong women to get under their skin and help them see the hero and lover within.
What really surprised me was the match up of Captain Kain and Lady Alique, I didn't see that coming. Now I am really curious who will Bernadette match up in the rest of the series. If you love strong women and equally strong men, fantasy and romance combined with lots of adventure and steamy interludes you will love this series.
October 31, 2015
I received a free digital copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
What an awesome book with an enthralling plot! It ended so perfectly it makes one almost yearn that's the end of their story, even with so many remaining issues that need to be settled. I shan't go in too much detail about the plot because this is one of those books you NEED to read yourself to enjoy. Kain is such an awesome character that even when he's reeling from being identified as part elf he still focuses on protecting Alique. This book was one of the best books I've gotten to review yet I don't know what to say without ruining it... read and enjoy it! I will definitely be reading more of Bernadette Rowley's works.
What an awesome book with an enthralling plot! It ended so perfectly it makes one almost yearn that's the end of their story, even with so many remaining issues that need to be settled. I shan't go in too much detail about the plot because this is one of those books you NEED to read yourself to enjoy. Kain is such an awesome character that even when he's reeling from being identified as part elf he still focuses on protecting Alique. This book was one of the best books I've gotten to review yet I don't know what to say without ruining it... read and enjoy it! I will definitely be reading more of Bernadette Rowley's works.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 12, 2020
Wow! What a rollercoaster ride! The Elf King's Lady, Bernadette Rowley's 5th installment in the Queenmakers Saga, starts off with a bang and just keeps on rolling! When Lady Alique Zorba was introduced in book 4, The Lord and the Mermaid, I was not a big fan. I found her to be self-centered, bossy and very arrogant. In The Elf King's Lady, we are introduced to a whole different persona, one in which she cares for others, loves deeply and possesses determination whatever the task. The same could be said for General Kain Jaraza; he too underwent a transformation from a cold, selfish person to a kind, caring (although conflicted) individual. These two together create some very interesting chemistry that comes through regardless the situation. Kain must definitely battle his own issues, and hope that there are pieces left to be picked up afterward. This storyline is fast-paced, filled with twists and turns, intrigue, danger and romance. The character development continues to get better and better! I love meeting old firends (and enemies) in new books, and enjoy watching their characters continue to grow as Nikolas and Merielle's did in this installment. I can't wait to see what adventure are in store in book 6, The Lady and the Pirate by Bernadette Rowley.
August 13, 2019
ONE INCREDIBLE DELIGHT!!!
Leaping lizards! Bernadette rocks this baby from the start. One tumultuous wild ride with a surplus of unexpected misfortune and surprising incidents that blasts all of your emotions bursting into play perfectly. One delectable storyline and compelling plot jolting this baby together fabulously. All the drama, angst, danger and suspense make for one incredible experience. Twists and turns, ups and downs, along with a few bumps and bruises bring this baby together smoothly. One non-stop action packed, fast paced, page flipping delight that grabs your attention and holds it until the last page. The characters and scenes are written in true to life form that brings this little guy bursting to life delightfully. Amazing job Bernadette, thanks for sharing this bad boy with us.
Leaping lizards! Bernadette rocks this baby from the start. One tumultuous wild ride with a surplus of unexpected misfortune and surprising incidents that blasts all of your emotions bursting into play perfectly. One delectable storyline and compelling plot jolting this baby together fabulously. All the drama, angst, danger and suspense make for one incredible experience. Twists and turns, ups and downs, along with a few bumps and bruises bring this baby together smoothly. One non-stop action packed, fast paced, page flipping delight that grabs your attention and holds it until the last page. The characters and scenes are written in true to life form that brings this little guy bursting to life delightfully. Amazing job Bernadette, thanks for sharing this bad boy with us.
November 7, 2016
Lady Alique Zorba has found out that the man she thought would be her perfect husband has fallen for another, one she considers less worthy of their class. General Kain Jazara agrees to help her confirm that his opinion won’t change.
I really didn’t like Lady Alique. I didn’t like her attitude right from the beginning. She starts off pining away for someone who hasn’t really said two words to her. She’s also very snobbish.This book just wasn’t for me. I don’t recommend.
I really didn’t like Lady Alique. I didn’t like her attitude right from the beginning. She starts off pining away for someone who hasn’t really said two words to her. She’s also very snobbish.This book just wasn’t for me. I don’t recommend.
April 6, 2025
An Enchanting Blend of Fantasy, Romance, and Adventure
Alique and Kain are thrust into a perilous journey after being captured by dark elves—an event that marks only the beginning of their epic adventure. Along the way, they uncover hidden truths, face treacherous challenges, and slowly fall in love. With danger lurking at every turn, their bond is put to the test. Will their love survive? I enjoyed the story and am curious to see where the series goes next.
Alique and Kain are thrust into a perilous journey after being captured by dark elves—an event that marks only the beginning of their epic adventure. Along the way, they uncover hidden truths, face treacherous challenges, and slowly fall in love. With danger lurking at every turn, their bond is put to the test. Will their love survive? I enjoyed the story and am curious to see where the series goes next.
March 1, 2020
Enjoyable
I wasn't a big fan of Lady Alique Zorba in previous books, but in The Elf Kong's Lady, you really get to know her. I was a fan of what I found. Factor in the gruff General Jazara, and tempers ignore. This might be one of my favorite books in the series thus far. An enjoyable read for sure!
I wasn't a big fan of Lady Alique Zorba in previous books, but in The Elf Kong's Lady, you really get to know her. I was a fan of what I found. Factor in the gruff General Jazara, and tempers ignore. This might be one of my favorite books in the series thus far. An enjoyable read for sure!
August 28, 2019
This is a fantastic addition to this series. The story building is great. Has a great flow with the story. The Characters are brought out so well. I felt like tgey jumped off the pages. Its definitely a series I highly recommend.
Shauna Joesten
Shauna Joesten
May 27, 2022
Wonderful
This is part of the continuation of the series. Just as full of action, suspense, intrigue and drama throughout the story. It also has deceit sprinkled throughout the story.
This is part of the continuation of the series. Just as full of action, suspense, intrigue and drama throughout the story. It also has deceit sprinkled throughout the story.
September 21, 2025
Bernadette Rowley weaves together magic, danger and passion in The Elf King’s Lady. Lady Alique and General Kain’s slow burn is irresistible, enemies at first, but their chemistry lights up every page
September 23, 2025
Bernadette Rowley masterfully blends magic, intrigue, and passion in The Elf King's Lady. The chemistry between Alique and Kain is electric, set against a richly imagined world filled with peril and dark elves. A must read for fans of epic fantasy romance!
August 29, 2019
This is one awesome story to take you away to the Elven world for enjoyment. Humans and elves together. Absolutely loved it.
September 4, 2019
Never a disappointment this author is magnificent. Action, loss love everything you could possibly want, a wonderful storyline and great character lineup. Give it a chance you won’t be sorry.
September 21, 2025
This is high fantasy done right: rich world‑building, vivid mythical creatures, political intrigue and a romance that feels both earned and intoxicating. A must‑read from Rowley.
September 21, 2025
I was completely entranced by Thorius and the dark elven menace. Alique is impulsive and courageous; Kain is pragmatic yet haunted. Their clash, their trust, their love, everything sings
September 21, 2025
The Elf King’s Lady is a masterclass in enemies to lovers romance with high stakes. The twists in Kain’s past will still haunt me. Rowley has delivered another queenmaker’s gem.
September 21, 2025
From hostage missions to explosive revelations, this fifth installment of the Queenmakers Saga maintains the momentum. Magic, combat, love the balance is perfect.
November 16, 2015
The Elf King’s Lady’s beautiful cover ensnared me and convinced me to read it. Although I enjoy both romance novels and high fantasy, this combination of the two genres just didn’t quite work for me.
I didn’t read the first book in the series, and I assume that the adversarial relationship between the hero and heroine of this entry is introduced there. I felt like I jumped into this book in the middle of a story. I didn’t feel any chemistry. The overall plot moved too slowly while the development from adversaries to heated lovers moved too quickly.
For me, The Elf King’s Lady contains too much genre romance sex for high fantasy and too much political intrigue and fantasy world building for genre romance. The combination just didn’t work for me (and the language was overblown even for genre romance, e.g., “‘Make love to me, Kain,’ Alique said. ‘I yearn to be one with you.’” (p. 207 of the advance reader copy).
I read an advance reader copy of The Elf King’s Lady.
I didn’t read the first book in the series, and I assume that the adversarial relationship between the hero and heroine of this entry is introduced there. I felt like I jumped into this book in the middle of a story. I didn’t feel any chemistry. The overall plot moved too slowly while the development from adversaries to heated lovers moved too quickly.
For me, The Elf King’s Lady contains too much genre romance sex for high fantasy and too much political intrigue and fantasy world building for genre romance. The combination just didn’t work for me (and the language was overblown even for genre romance, e.g., “‘Make love to me, Kain,’ Alique said. ‘I yearn to be one with you.’” (p. 207 of the advance reader copy).
I read an advance reader copy of The Elf King’s Lady.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews