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Knights of The Compass #2
The Knight and The Red Cloak
After three knights and three failed tries, Sir Rowan Wolf sets of into the kingdom of the West to learn two things: why King Maas is in a hurry to marry into the royal family of the West; and who keeps drugging his men and sending them back down the river.
Noel, dressed in his late father’s red cloak, is asked by the king to keep him in hiding and perform one task, a task that Noel wishes he could refuse. But doing so would condemn his kingdom to King Maas’s vicious hand.
No choice but to prepare a potion that will kill the king of the West, Noel hunts for ingredients in the deep, dark woods. Woods Noel thinks he knows like the back of his hand . . . until he meets a Wolf that leads him astray.
Noel, dressed in his late father’s red cloak, is asked by the king to keep him in hiding and perform one task, a task that Noel wishes he could refuse. But doing so would condemn his kingdom to King Maas’s vicious hand.
No choice but to prepare a potion that will kill the king of the West, Noel hunts for ingredients in the deep, dark woods. Woods Noel thinks he knows like the back of his hand . . . until he meets a Wolf that leads him astray.
74 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 20, 2013
13 people are currently reading
117 people want to read
About the author
Dru Wellington
5 books25 followersContact: http://www.druwellington.com/?page_id=47.
I love fairy tales, both original and retellings, and that is where my idea for The Compass stemmed. A world where all these amazing fairy tales could live and breathe with some of my own little twists . . .
I'm really enjoying writing these novellas and discovering more of The Compass as I go. Perhaps someday a bigger novel will come out of this setting, and I hope these stories help to cultivate the world-building.
Of course, these novellas can be read as standalones, too. Each one features new heroes and the journey they go on to reach their happy ending.
The first volume in the world of "The Compass" will involve four "Knight" stories, but others are planned: Lords of the Compass, Pirates of the Compass, ... stay tuned! They are in some way interrelated (with a couple that aren't) with a bigger story-conflict.
Feel free to contact me at: druwellington (at) gmail.com or check my website, www.druwellington.com.
I love fairy tales, both original and retellings, and that is where my idea for The Compass stemmed. A world where all these amazing fairy tales could live and breathe with some of my own little twists . . .
I'm really enjoying writing these novellas and discovering more of The Compass as I go. Perhaps someday a bigger novel will come out of this setting, and I hope these stories help to cultivate the world-building.
Of course, these novellas can be read as standalones, too. Each one features new heroes and the journey they go on to reach their happy ending.
The first volume in the world of "The Compass" will involve four "Knight" stories, but others are planned: Lords of the Compass, Pirates of the Compass, ... stay tuned! They are in some way interrelated (with a couple that aren't) with a bigger story-conflict.
Feel free to contact me at: druwellington (at) gmail.com or check my website, www.druwellington.com.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
June 3, 2023
The good news is that this book is much better written than the first one and the storytelling is somewhat improved. That strange, overly formal, over written style that the author used in the first book is gone. Unfortunately, the author over corrected a bit because I find it jarring to have characters in these medieval settings use words like 'okay', but I much preferred this style to the one used in the first book.
This story is a Little Red Riding Hood re-telling but like the first book, you don't have to know details about the fairytale (or anything about it) to enjoy it. In fact, I found it kind of distracting to know the actual fairytale because I kept noticing jarring changes that made no sense. In addition, the author forced the inclusion of some scenes from the fairytale that made no sense in this story . But that's a minor complaint.
Some other minor issues were the many plot holes that the author left all over the place, clearly because they didn't care enough to make the story fully make sense.
In fact, the entire book was based on a dumb premise.
What was interesting in this book was that my dislike of the MCs was flipped from what it was in the first book. In the first one, I hated the smaller/weaker MC Corinth while in this book, I hated the bigger/warrior MC Rowan.
Related to that - this book was once again an epic case of instalust. There was zero chemistry between the MCs for most of the book and both of them had severe cases of Chronic Arousal Syndrome. I felt their chemistry improved as the story progressed but the dub-con/non-con nature of their sexual relationship made me sour on them as a couple anyway.
To be fair, this book did have positives and there were more than in the first book. The book has a much more cohesive and interesting plot (if we ignore the plot holes I mentioned at the start of the review). Once again, I liked the subtle inclusions of characters or references to MCs from future and past books. I loved the father-son bond between Noel and the Western King and the reason behind that bond. I also enjoyed that Rowan and Noel spend much of the book trying to use each other to fulfill their own goals, which included them using their strengths against each other. Rowan used his physical strength and fighting ability to overpower Noel while Noel used his acting abilities and knowledge of medicine to drug and manipulate Rowan. This back and forth between them was enjoyable.
Overall, these books aren't my cup of tea. While some of the ideas are good, the storytelling is lackluster and the romance is all instalust, which isn't my thing. I have no reason to believe that the last two books will be any different so I'm not going to continue the series. It's a real shame that the author stepped away from fantasy as abruptly as they got into it because it's clear they have a lot of good ideas and this series could have been really great if the writing and storytelling were better.
This story is a Little Red Riding Hood re-telling but like the first book, you don't have to know details about the fairytale (or anything about it) to enjoy it. In fact, I found it kind of distracting to know the actual fairytale because I kept noticing jarring changes that made no sense. In addition, the author forced the inclusion of some scenes from the fairytale that made no sense in this story . But that's a minor complaint.
Some other minor issues were the many plot holes that the author left all over the place, clearly because they didn't care enough to make the story fully make sense.
In fact, the entire book was based on a dumb premise.
What was interesting in this book was that my dislike of the MCs was flipped from what it was in the first book. In the first one, I hated the smaller/weaker MC Corinth while in this book, I hated the bigger/warrior MC Rowan.
Related to that - this book was once again an epic case of instalust. There was zero chemistry between the MCs for most of the book and both of them had severe cases of Chronic Arousal Syndrome. I felt their chemistry improved as the story progressed but the dub-con/non-con nature of their sexual relationship made me sour on them as a couple anyway.
To be fair, this book did have positives and there were more than in the first book. The book has a much more cohesive and interesting plot (if we ignore the plot holes I mentioned at the start of the review). Once again, I liked the subtle inclusions of characters or references to MCs from future and past books. I loved the father-son bond between Noel and the Western King and the reason behind that bond. I also enjoyed that Rowan and Noel spend much of the book trying to use each other to fulfill their own goals, which included them using their strengths against each other. Rowan used his physical strength and fighting ability to overpower Noel while Noel used his acting abilities and knowledge of medicine to drug and manipulate Rowan. This back and forth between them was enjoyable.
Overall, these books aren't my cup of tea. While some of the ideas are good, the storytelling is lackluster and the romance is all instalust, which isn't my thing. I have no reason to believe that the last two books will be any different so I'm not going to continue the series. It's a real shame that the author stepped away from fantasy as abruptly as they got into it because it's clear they have a lot of good ideas and this series could have been really great if the writing and storytelling were better.
December 31, 2013
The fairy tale origins of the story are even clearer here than they were with book 1: this is a proto-sugar-kink gay red riding hood. Woot!
Again, there is that lovely repetition in the narrative, as Sir Wolf and Noel match wits. Very sweet, very light, great for relaxing after a hard day. Also a dollar!
Again, there is that lovely repetition in the narrative, as Sir Wolf and Noel match wits. Very sweet, very light, great for relaxing after a hard day. Also a dollar!
November 5, 2018
I’m sad to say I really didn’t like this one. It was as insta as you can get, the entire story takes place over 2 or 3 days. I just don’t buy commitment and devotion to someone you only met the day before. Worse than that for me was the way Wolf I was just completely grossed out and super disappointed.
There are two more books in the series but this one left such a terrible taste in my mouth and hurt in my heart that I will not continue.
There are two more books in the series but this one left such a terrible taste in my mouth and hurt in my heart that I will not continue.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 2, 2014
Clearly taking inspiration from Red Riding Hood – the follow-up to The Knight and The Prince now telling the story of Rowan Wolf, Knight Axle right hand man (from book 1) and Noel, a healer from West Kingdom.
Plot wise, it was less straight forward than the prequel and truthfully I was a bit confused in the beginning with the necessity of Noel killing the King of the West. It had something to do with a myth though, which explained later on, but still a little weird. I also scratched my head regarding Noel’s relationship with the King – I assumed that Noel’s father and the King became lovers, at one time, but wasn’t the King married and already have a daughter?!?
Oh, well ... nonetheless, let’s focus on Noel and his Wolf, shall we? I enjoyed their time together; for a healer, Noel surely had tricks up his sleeves a couple of times to get away from the Knight. I liked their sexy time, it was a bit leaning to ALMOST dub-con situation, because Rowan Wolf’s idea of ‘punishing’ Noel involved some sex moves
. It was pretty fun though, and I never for once thought Noel didn’t enjoy being with Wolf, even with a lot of teeth involved (Wolf surely loved to bite!!).
Noticed a wrong reference one time (second-to-last chapter: King Garret was the Western King but it referred as Eastern King). The ending felt bit rushed. But in overall, I wasn’t too annoyed.
Fun and light sexier sequel, which you can gobble up under an hour, for less than one dollar (when I bought this somehow I got a promotion discount and ended up paying 50% from actual price). Give it a try if you like your fairy-tale. I definitely can’t wait for story #3 and wonder which knight will get his story...
Plot wise, it was less straight forward than the prequel and truthfully I was a bit confused in the beginning with the necessity of Noel killing the King of the West. It had something to do with a myth though, which explained later on, but still a little weird. I also scratched my head regarding Noel’s relationship with the King – I assumed that Noel’s father and the King became lovers, at one time, but wasn’t the King married and already have a daughter?!?
Oh, well ... nonetheless, let’s focus on Noel and his Wolf, shall we? I enjoyed their time together; for a healer, Noel surely had tricks up his sleeves a couple of times to get away from the Knight. I liked their sexy time, it was a bit leaning to ALMOST dub-con situation, because Rowan Wolf’s idea of ‘punishing’ Noel involved some sex moves
. It was pretty fun though, and I never for once thought Noel didn’t enjoy being with Wolf, even with a lot of teeth involved (Wolf surely loved to bite!!).Noticed a wrong reference one time (second-to-last chapter: King Garret was the Western King but it referred as Eastern King). The ending felt bit rushed. But in overall, I wasn’t too annoyed.
Fun and light sexier sequel, which you can gobble up under an hour, for less than one dollar (when I bought this somehow I got a promotion discount and ended up paying 50% from actual price). Give it a try if you like your fairy-tale. I definitely can’t wait for story #3 and wonder which knight will get his story...
September 2, 2018
1.5 stars. Uninspired riff on Little Red Riding Hood with angry sex and a terrible pun. Skimmed to finish.
October 8, 2018
4.5 stars
Short fantasy retelling of Red Riding Hood featuring a determined knight and a healer on a mission.
Probably my favourite of the series. Rowan and Noel had a great dynamic and I enjoyed Noel's knowledge about herbs and making potions. The plot itself was also refreshing.
Content warnings include: violence, drugging, sex on-page, BDSM elements (mild D/s, biting, manhandling/rough sex, impact play), character is ask to aid the death of a friend
Short fantasy retelling of Red Riding Hood featuring a determined knight and a healer on a mission.
Probably my favourite of the series. Rowan and Noel had a great dynamic and I enjoyed Noel's knowledge about herbs and making potions. The plot itself was also refreshing.
Content warnings include: violence, drugging, sex on-page, BDSM elements (mild D/s, biting, manhandling/rough sex, impact play), character is ask to aid the death of a friend
Want to read
February 24, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (2/24/2019)! 🎁
February 24, 2017
Another nice installment to this story.
Didn't quite capture my interest as much as the first. Sir Wolf didn't really do it for me, but I liked Noel. Still not sure how the solution to the problem works, but I'm willing to go along with it.
Didn't quite capture my interest as much as the first. Sir Wolf didn't really do it for me, but I liked Noel. Still not sure how the solution to the problem works, but I'm willing to go along with it.
December 15, 2015
** 3.5 Stars **
Not as good as the first tale but entertaining nonetheless.
April 23, 2018
There's nothing like yaoi to get you back in the game.
I haven't read the prequel to this since only this one was free but I've gotta say I might try it. The world is a little confusing, but the easy writing and simple story made up for it.
It's a stand-alone tho, so it's not like I just jumped in the middle of a story. The characters were fun (I am a big fan of the smug bastard who saves the day so yaaay (gaaay?) and he's got black hair! The only color allowed!!) Also there's two full scenes of people stuck in nets and I love that there's not enough, a re-enactment of Little Red Riding Hood (THAT TOO MORE IT WAS SO FUNNY) and fluff here and there. Really you're not losing anything by reading this, it's free! Freedom!
My main issue with this was the length. I like my romances to go on and on and on, okay? 74 pages isn't enough to get to know the characters and buy their romance, especially Enemies-to-Lovers which is THE BEST ROMANCE TROPE EVER I WANT IT EVERYWHERE. Just look at how long it took for Beraht and Dieter to finally get it on.
So yeah, this feels very instalove-y. Also, I love these relationships that build on misunderstandings and deals (ex: Act as my lover for a year and I'll fix your debt, work for me and I'll forget you stole my magical apples, two guys thinking the other only wants casual sex and they still do it because they can't not be together) then it evolves into real love and caring and stuff.
But like... Rowan is really rapey at first? Like he catches Noel and is like 'I'll have your ass' and is surprised that Noel doesn't mind? Like what if he'd been straight? Or just not interested? Would they still have had sex? DO NOT LIKE
Like, I love rough sex/non-con in my yaoi just as much as the other guy, but there has to be this... actual love in it? It's roleplay basically. But Rowan 1) doesn't know Noel 2) isn't in love with him and 3) is actually really, really mad at him. What that tells me is that Noel is just a pretty ass to him, not 'something he just found that he doesn't want to lose'.
*THERE'S NO RAPE OK.* Noel just likes playing the ice queen and Rowan is more than happy to indulge him. He never says no and does say yes and Rowan asks permission, it's just I can't really buy Rowan falling in love with Noel because it seems that had it be any other person he still would've wanted to fuck them. HE WANTS SEX IS ALL
Apart from that it's alright, relaxed and got back into reading. Yaoi forever.
I haven't read the prequel to this since only this one was free but I've gotta say I might try it. The world is a little confusing, but the easy writing and simple story made up for it.
It's a stand-alone tho, so it's not like I just jumped in the middle of a story. The characters were fun (I am a big fan of the smug bastard who saves the day so yaaay (gaaay?) and he's got black hair! The only color allowed!!) Also there's two full scenes of people stuck in nets and I love that there's not enough, a re-enactment of Little Red Riding Hood (THAT TOO MORE IT WAS SO FUNNY) and fluff here and there. Really you're not losing anything by reading this, it's free! Freedom!
My main issue with this was the length. I like my romances to go on and on and on, okay? 74 pages isn't enough to get to know the characters and buy their romance, especially Enemies-to-Lovers which is THE BEST ROMANCE TROPE EVER I WANT IT EVERYWHERE. Just look at how long it took for Beraht and Dieter to finally get it on.
So yeah, this feels very instalove-y. Also, I love these relationships that build on misunderstandings and deals (ex: Act as my lover for a year and I'll fix your debt, work for me and I'll forget you stole my magical apples, two guys thinking the other only wants casual sex and they still do it because they can't not be together) then it evolves into real love and caring and stuff.
But like... Rowan is really rapey at first? Like he catches Noel and is like 'I'll have your ass' and is surprised that Noel doesn't mind? Like what if he'd been straight? Or just not interested? Would they still have had sex? DO NOT LIKE
Like, I love rough sex/non-con in my yaoi just as much as the other guy, but there has to be this... actual love in it? It's roleplay basically. But Rowan 1) doesn't know Noel 2) isn't in love with him and 3) is actually really, really mad at him. What that tells me is that Noel is just a pretty ass to him, not 'something he just found that he doesn't want to lose'.
*THERE'S NO RAPE OK.* Noel just likes playing the ice queen and Rowan is more than happy to indulge him. He never says no and does say yes and Rowan asks permission, it's just I can't really buy Rowan falling in love with Noel because it seems that had it be any other person he still would've wanted to fuck them. HE WANTS SEX IS ALL
Apart from that it's alright, relaxed and got back into reading. Yaoi forever.
December 20, 2017
“I didn’t mean a little, Sir Rowan Wolf. I meant a lot.”
This series is so fun!!
So, I still don't know what retelling the first book is (romeo and Juliet?? Idk. LOL!) But this of course is a retelling of Red Riding Hood which I loved.
I really enjoyed the love hate tension in this one much more than the first, loved the chase and the catch. It was more fun where the first one felt more hateful and a downer before they finally got to the romance!
The trickery in this one is great and adds to their relationship and the back and forth!
So that 'first' sex scene definitely has me scratching my head (so matter of factly) but I enjoyed the rest and really enjoy these novellas.
So, there does seem to be a tension, a love/hate arc in these books, that does take up most of the book and then something happens then all the confessions of love come about, it feels sudden and it is in a way but the author brings about these feelinhs in subtle moments along the way but they are short stories so it feels sudden so as a reader you've gotta accept that or you're more than likely not going to enjoy these books...
I do though! The plots are a bit same-y but once I pace myself in between books then I'm fine with it because I'm really liking these books, love the setting and the characters and hopefully seeing King Maas falling from the throne!
This series is so fun!!
So, I still don't know what retelling the first book is (romeo and Juliet?? Idk. LOL!) But this of course is a retelling of Red Riding Hood which I loved.
I really enjoyed the love hate tension in this one much more than the first, loved the chase and the catch. It was more fun where the first one felt more hateful and a downer before they finally got to the romance!
The trickery in this one is great and adds to their relationship and the back and forth!
So that 'first' sex scene definitely has me scratching my head (so matter of factly) but I enjoyed the rest and really enjoy these novellas.
So, there does seem to be a tension, a love/hate arc in these books, that does take up most of the book and then something happens then all the confessions of love come about, it feels sudden and it is in a way but the author brings about these feelinhs in subtle moments along the way but they are short stories so it feels sudden so as a reader you've gotta accept that or you're more than likely not going to enjoy these books...
I do though! The plots are a bit same-y but once I pace myself in between books then I'm fine with it because I'm really liking these books, love the setting and the characters and hopefully seeing King Maas falling from the throne!
May 12, 2018
Short and sweet, this was a nice and interesting in between read.
The story was free and it is part of a series (actually it is already part 2),
I enjoyed it, but as usual with novellas, it was a little too short to develop the characters fully or get the feeling for this world and its inhabitants.
I am not complaining and I am not really a big fan of extremly long stories, but this one could have used a few more pages to make it more believable and interesting.
The (little) drama there is, was solved far too easily and quickly and the love story didn`t get enough space either.
Still above average and 3.5 stars for me.
The story was free and it is part of a series (actually it is already part 2),
I enjoyed it, but as usual with novellas, it was a little too short to develop the characters fully or get the feeling for this world and its inhabitants.
I am not complaining and I am not really a big fan of extremly long stories, but this one could have used a few more pages to make it more believable and interesting.
The (little) drama there is, was solved far too easily and quickly and the love story didn`t get enough space either.
Still above average and 3.5 stars for me.
July 20, 2018
Little red riding hood.
A little sad, a little happy and a lot of fun. Rowan is on a mission to find the king of the west, each attempt sending him down the river or into a trap. Noel is a perfect match for him, a healer tasked with the worst mission. I liked the western king, how kind and good he is compared to Maas.
A little sad, a little happy and a lot of fun. Rowan is on a mission to find the king of the west, each attempt sending him down the river or into a trap. Noel is a perfect match for him, a healer tasked with the worst mission. I liked the western king, how kind and good he is compared to Maas.
April 29, 2022
little Red Riding hood reimagined
If you look at this like the fairytale it is, the speed of the relationship is typical. I really liked how the story relates to Little Red Riding Hood. King Maas is still evil but I’m sure he’ll be thwarted in the end.
If you look at this like the fairytale it is, the speed of the relationship is typical. I really liked how the story relates to Little Red Riding Hood. King Maas is still evil but I’m sure he’ll be thwarted in the end.
May 7, 2017
Entertaining even though not my usual type of read.
I mean, gay Red Riding Hood retelling? I'm in. Now, if only we had more depth and time to see their feelings develop...
I mean, gay Red Riding Hood retelling? I'm in. Now, if only we had more depth and time to see their feelings develop...
April 18, 2014
Finally got to reading the second story of the "Knights of the Compass".
I admit, I have a soft spot for these stories (I've finished all four of them now and can't wait for the next story). The idea of taking fairy tales, giving them a new twist but keeping some of their distinguishing attributes, is intriguing. And I loved the result.
Sir Wolfe meets red-hooded Noel. Oh...now we have a growly guy and a sassy counterpart. I loved their chemistry.
If I have to complain about one thing, it would be that the story could have been a bit longer. I wasn't really ready to let them go in the end, a bit more time with them would have been better, especially because the apperance of Rumpel at the end already kind of led into the next story.
But still - chemistry and all, this is one really interesting couple and I'd love to see them around for more (even if I only hear the slapping of leather gloves on skin through closed doors).
I admit, I have a soft spot for these stories (I've finished all four of them now and can't wait for the next story). The idea of taking fairy tales, giving them a new twist but keeping some of their distinguishing attributes, is intriguing. And I loved the result.
Sir Wolfe meets red-hooded Noel. Oh...now we have a growly guy and a sassy counterpart. I loved their chemistry.
If I have to complain about one thing, it would be that the story could have been a bit longer. I wasn't really ready to let them go in the end, a bit more time with them would have been better, especially because the apperance of Rumpel at the end already kind of led into the next story.
But still - chemistry and all, this is one really interesting couple and I'd love to see them around for more (even if I only hear the slapping of leather gloves on skin through closed doors).
July 12, 2015
Another fun, sexy story in the Compass universe. This one is about two different characters (one of whom has a supporting role in The Knight and The Prince) and the MCs from the first book are only referenced. But the overarching storyline about the North empire is moved forward. I really liked Noel and the fact that he was a healer rather than a fighter. Off to read book #3 now.
March 1, 2014
How awesome was this? ♥♥♥
I was blown away with the way the author incorporated the Little Red Riding Hood bits in this story. From the wolf to the cloak, from grandmother's bonnet to the switching in the bed pretending, from the voice pretending to the freaking CLASSIC LINE. That was so freaking awesome! I totally read through this whole book in one sitting. Such a great job! Will be rereading!
And saw a glimpse of Rumple! Can't wait for his story! :)
I was blown away with the way the author incorporated the Little Red Riding Hood bits in this story. From the wolf to the cloak, from grandmother's bonnet to the switching in the bed pretending, from the voice pretending to the freaking CLASSIC LINE. That was so freaking awesome! I totally read through this whole book in one sitting. Such a great job! Will be rereading!
And saw a glimpse of Rumple! Can't wait for his story! :)
December 8, 2015
I liked this more than The Knight and The Prince since the plot wasn't too straightforward. A couple of pleasant twists, more backstory of the kingdom and more fantasy. This series is such a guilty pleasure and I'm enjoying it thoroughly.
Read
April 19, 2016In a sense, I liked this more than the previous book - it had more plot and twists, even though the characters annoyed me sometimes, and certain things became repetitive.
Also, I know this is a m/m series, but why is everyone gay? xD Putting this series on hold for a while, as I'm not in the mood for it.
May 12, 2016
Mildly entertaining continuation of the story. Lots of sex scenes. To me they are a waste of space as there are only so many ways to have sex. A knight meets a clever healer, instant love. Everyone in this world is gay.
September 10, 2016
***copy provided by author
September 6, 2015
I didn't really enjoy this one.
June 2, 2015
Keeps getting better
This one has well rounded characters. The background story is becoming clearer and the filling of it more intriguing. On to the next! Thanks!
This one has well rounded characters. The background story is becoming clearer and the filling of it more intriguing. On to the next! Thanks!
August 3, 2016
Sir Wolf, more like Knight in shining armor!
I loved Rowan, oh what a hero he is. He fell in love so quickly, he never stood a chance against Noel's charms
I loved Rowan, oh what a hero he is. He fell in love so quickly, he never stood a chance against Noel's charms
Want to read
April 22, 20184/22/18: Currently FREE via Amazon US: https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B00HG0RL8...
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews