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Inheritance #2
Knight of Flames
Headstrong. Telekinetic. Pariah.
On the run from his family, Quentin d’Arcy has settled in San Diego with dwindling funds and the growing suspicion that his gifts might not be limited to telekinesis. When he meets a psychic who can control people’s actions with a few words, his comfortable life starts to unravel.
Demigod. Oracle. Hunter.
Laurence Riley almost died killing one god only to discover that he’s descended from another. Before he can come to terms with that revelation, Quentin’s twin brother walks into his life, and there’s no way to know what his motives may be.
With great power comes great danger.
Kane Wilson wants to make a better world: a world in which psychics are open about who and what they are without fear of reprisal or hatred. With the power to control others he might be able to pull it off, but there’s going to be collateral damage.
If Quentin and Laurence can’t get to the bottom of Wilson’s plan, Kane will out the existence of psychics not only to San Diego but to the world, and all hell will break loose.
Knight of Flames is the second book in the Inheritance series and contains mature themes and events which may be distressing to some readers. It has a mild heat rating and an HFN ending.
On the run from his family, Quentin d’Arcy has settled in San Diego with dwindling funds and the growing suspicion that his gifts might not be limited to telekinesis. When he meets a psychic who can control people’s actions with a few words, his comfortable life starts to unravel.
Demigod. Oracle. Hunter.
Laurence Riley almost died killing one god only to discover that he’s descended from another. Before he can come to terms with that revelation, Quentin’s twin brother walks into his life, and there’s no way to know what his motives may be.
With great power comes great danger.
Kane Wilson wants to make a better world: a world in which psychics are open about who and what they are without fear of reprisal or hatred. With the power to control others he might be able to pull it off, but there’s going to be collateral damage.
If Quentin and Laurence can’t get to the bottom of Wilson’s plan, Kane will out the existence of psychics not only to San Diego but to the world, and all hell will break loose.
Knight of Flames is the second book in the Inheritance series and contains mature themes and events which may be distressing to some readers. It has a mild heat rating and an HFN ending.
460 pages, ebook
First published August 23, 2016
56 people are currently reading
404 people want to read
About the author
Amelia Faulkner
22 books288 followersAmelia Faulkner was born in Thame, Oxfordshire, and sprouted upward in short order. The ground around Thame is reasonably mucky, especially in the winter, and she can’t be blamed for wanting to get away from it.
Raised on a steady diet of Star Trek and Doctor Who, Amelia stood no chance in not becoming a grade-A geek. She has sat on the board of the British Fantasy Society, contributed fiction and fluff to various published roleplaying games, and written non-fiction for SciFiNow and SFX Magazines. For every positive there is an equal and opposite negative, and Amelia is forced to admit that she loves Wild Wild West.
In her spare time she enjoys travel, photography, walking her Corgi, and trying to convince her friends to replay the Pathfinder Adventure Card Game with all the Goblins decks.
Visit her website at http://ameliafaulkner.com!
Raised on a steady diet of Star Trek and Doctor Who, Amelia stood no chance in not becoming a grade-A geek. She has sat on the board of the British Fantasy Society, contributed fiction and fluff to various published roleplaying games, and written non-fiction for SciFiNow and SFX Magazines. For every positive there is an equal and opposite negative, and Amelia is forced to admit that she loves Wild Wild West.
In her spare time she enjoys travel, photography, walking her Corgi, and trying to convince her friends to replay the Pathfinder Adventure Card Game with all the Goblins decks.
Visit her website at http://ameliafaulkner.com!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews
September 2, 2018
You know that feeling when you're reading a good book and you sort of know where it's going and it goes there but it's still okay because you still had a good time getting there? But there's also this undercurrent of weird niggling at you the entire time and then you get to the last page and it sucker punches you in the brain and then you can't figure out if you're really excited or super dreading what's going to come next?
And all of a sudden everything you've read prior to that moment is put into this whole other context and it makes this horrible kind of sense and you don't know what to make of it? Yeah, that's me and this book.
This was going to be a solid four stars, and the first 95% of the book totally is. But now? Gotta raise it up a star. The author is toying with us, just because she can! I bet this is what Ms. Faulkner was doing as she was writing that page:
Laurence and Quentin are still figuring out their psychic powers and their relationship, and how to get past Quentin's various hangups with sex or anything sexual in nature. Along the way, Quentin gets an unexpected visitor, Ethan gets a boyfriend, and we get to meet new psychics. The other really starts to expand on this world while also giving us a little more background on Quentin. We don't get quite as much focus on Laurence, as this one is more Quentin-centric, but we still go back and forth on their POVs.
The flaws exist only because the characters are flawed, and to say more about it would be giving away too much of the plot. Let me just say, you'll yell at these characters like they're in a horror movie but at least Laurence is somewhat genre savvy. Quentin is as always tragically oblivious.
What else can I say? The author's geography of San Diego continues to prove good. Kind of off on our weather. May's usually not that hot, but freak heat waves do happen all year long so I'll give her that one.
And all of a sudden everything you've read prior to that moment is put into this whole other context and it makes this horrible kind of sense and you don't know what to make of it? Yeah, that's me and this book.
This was going to be a solid four stars, and the first 95% of the book totally is. But now? Gotta raise it up a star. The author is toying with us, just because she can! I bet this is what Ms. Faulkner was doing as she was writing that page:
Laurence and Quentin are still figuring out their psychic powers and their relationship, and how to get past Quentin's various hangups with sex or anything sexual in nature. Along the way, Quentin gets an unexpected visitor, Ethan gets a boyfriend, and we get to meet new psychics. The other really starts to expand on this world while also giving us a little more background on Quentin. We don't get quite as much focus on Laurence, as this one is more Quentin-centric, but we still go back and forth on their POVs.
The flaws exist only because the characters are flawed, and to say more about it would be giving away too much of the plot. Let me just say, you'll yell at these characters like they're in a horror movie but at least Laurence is somewhat genre savvy. Quentin is as always tragically oblivious.
What else can I say? The author's geography of San Diego continues to prove good. Kind of off on our weather. May's usually not that hot, but freak heat waves do happen all year long so I'll give her that one.
August 16, 2018
I’ve tried writing a review, but that epilogue scrambled my brain.
If you're looking for coherent thoughts, read Linda's review.
If you're looking for coherent thoughts, read Linda's review.
November 14, 2016
I enjoyed this book more than the first. The pace is more even, the action clearer, and the relationship progresses with some interesting setbacks. The villain(s) are (probably) just human psychics and the old gods element is temporarily put on the back burner, in favor of new conflicts.
Quentin becomes a much more rounded character here, although the mystery of his past is clearly going to be a slooooooow reveal. His interactions with everyone, especially Lawrence, become warmer, more human, and more complex. In this one, I came to believe in their relationship as something with real content, not just unwilling attraction.
The plot brings in quite a few secondary characters, both among the antagonists and in Lawrence's home life. Also in Quentin's - a relative shows up, with unclear motives, to muddy the waters but add interest. A lot of threads are building, but are not tied off yet. There's some moral ambiguity to the action climax that I hope will get its emotional due in the next book.
I had a few plot quibbles, both with the bad guys' motives and methods, and with a couple of TSTL moments from our heroes. I both enjoyed and was irked by Quentin's continued naiveté for someone his age, but I connected with him better in this book. There is clearly a story on a wider stage developing, as we see hints not only of the gods and psychics, but of different kinds of psychic ability, and possibly of classic magic as well. The ending is HFN, but with an ominous epilogue that hints at more danger to come. Not a cliffhanger to where I'm irritated by it, but this book is tenuous in its ending. I do want the next one.
Quentin becomes a much more rounded character here, although the mystery of his past is clearly going to be a slooooooow reveal. His interactions with everyone, especially Lawrence, become warmer, more human, and more complex. In this one, I came to believe in their relationship as something with real content, not just unwilling attraction.
The plot brings in quite a few secondary characters, both among the antagonists and in Lawrence's home life. Also in Quentin's - a relative shows up, with unclear motives, to muddy the waters but add interest. A lot of threads are building, but are not tied off yet. There's some moral ambiguity to the action climax that I hope will get its emotional due in the next book.
I had a few plot quibbles, both with the bad guys' motives and methods, and with a couple of TSTL moments from our heroes. I both enjoyed and was irked by Quentin's continued naiveté for someone his age, but I connected with him better in this book. There is clearly a story on a wider stage developing, as we see hints not only of the gods and psychics, but of different kinds of psychic ability, and possibly of classic magic as well. The ending is HFN, but with an ominous epilogue that hints at more danger to come. Not a cliffhanger to where I'm irritated by it, but this book is tenuous in its ending. I do want the next one.
January 31, 2021
This is actually kind of amazing and I remember trying to start the first book a couple of years ago and just stopped but I don't think there was any good reason. I am very glad to have picked it back up because it's really very good so far and in the vein of books I am wanting to read right now. Urban fantasy used to be one of my favorite genres before I started reading romance and found some UF that I have liked both when I was reading MF and now in MM but this is reminiscent of others before that but I am really appreciating the slow burn part of the sexual relationship due to whatever trauma. It seems at least somewhat realistic.
As far as the storyline, I really love the juxtaposition of Quentin and Laurence's personalities and how they are still trying to work together even with their differences. I am wondering what the reason is behind Quentin's lack of worldliness is since his brother doesn't suffer from the same thing. Quentin is at the same time pretentious and gullible. His noble upbringing has probably kept him from making quite a few mistakes such as getting taken by con men because he didn't really deal too much with commoners, but when presented with animals or children in need, he can't help himself but wants to rescue them (as well as Laurence now.) I am just glad he has Laurence to help him navigate the world more and protect him too because Quentin is very soft-hearted at the core.
Laurence is overtly kind and welcoming which has gotten him into trouble in his past because he had little self-worth and was taken advantage of, he is a fierce protector of those he loves. Now, he has Quentin who isn't trying to take advantage of him and just wants to take care of him. They are sort of made for each other in the emotional sense. Now they just have learn how to be in a healthy relationship while battling actual evil, so hey, no pressure.
This particular bad guy was pretty terrifying because he has the power of persuasion and that is entirely too powerful especially in someone that smart. It was a bit of a nail-biter, for sure.
Then we meet Frederick.
So, just out of curiosity, as of now there are 7 books and there's supposed to be an 8th book that was going to come out at the end of last year, but I am sure with the world in upheaval getting books out isn't exactly easy, but does anyone know how many books are planned?
As far as the storyline, I really love the juxtaposition of Quentin and Laurence's personalities and how they are still trying to work together even with their differences. I am wondering what the reason is behind Quentin's lack of worldliness is since his brother doesn't suffer from the same thing. Quentin is at the same time pretentious and gullible. His noble upbringing has probably kept him from making quite a few mistakes such as getting taken by con men because he didn't really deal too much with commoners, but when presented with animals or children in need, he can't help himself but wants to rescue them (as well as Laurence now.) I am just glad he has Laurence to help him navigate the world more and protect him too because Quentin is very soft-hearted at the core.
Laurence is overtly kind and welcoming which has gotten him into trouble in his past because he had little self-worth and was taken advantage of, he is a fierce protector of those he loves. Now, he has Quentin who isn't trying to take advantage of him and just wants to take care of him. They are sort of made for each other in the emotional sense. Now they just have learn how to be in a healthy relationship while battling actual evil, so hey, no pressure.
This particular bad guy was pretty terrifying because he has the power of persuasion and that is entirely too powerful especially in someone that smart. It was a bit of a nail-biter, for sure.
Then we meet Frederick.
So, just out of curiosity, as of now there are 7 books and there's supposed to be an 8th book that was going to come out at the end of last year, but I am sure with the world in upheaval getting books out isn't exactly easy, but does anyone know how many books are planned?
June 22, 2022
4 Stars
Review:
Ok, I'm more into the series now.
First things first, Quentin didn't do the "one" thing or say "dear/old boy" as much, which was my biggest issue with the first book. It also helped him feel like he had more actual depth.
In fact, both Laurence and Quentin are likeable and memorable. I'm enjoying them as main characters and looking forward to getting to know them more and more.
Something this author does particularly well is write panic/anxiety spirals. Sometimes Quentin will suddenly panic and get lost in his thoughts, thoughts that just start spiraling out of control, and it really comes through in the way it's written.
The plot was great. Not super action-packed, but plenty going on to keep me reading. Pretty much independent of the events in the first book, and resolved by the end, but with the characters and their development and relationships and lives and growing psychic powers being the connecting threads, and the ending hinted at a bigger, overarching plot or events to come.
Despite some issues I have, which I'll get more into below, the romance is sweet and continuing to grow into something strong. They have some little emotional struggles here and there, but that just makes it even better for me, and it's only because they feel so strongly for each other. And shit, that bathtub scene was hot. The slow burn build up to it... Laurence's desperation... Quentin feeling things he's never felt before... Whew!
Talking about the sex, however, feels tricky. One character loves sex and wants to have it all the time. The other has a fear of physical intimacy and has only just started to be ok with a bit of kissing at the start of the book. Characters sometimes say/think/feel/do things that are a bit problematic or not ideal. Laurence sometimes gets frustrated with Quentin and pushes him a bit. Quentin sometimes ends up in situations that make him uncomfortable or panicked. There's a bit of a vibe that Quentin is the one who is wrong and needs to change. It could be upsetting to some readers. However, it seems Quentin isn't sex-repulsed, he might not even be asexual, rather he has fear/anxiety around sex but enjoys it when he's able to get past that. So he seems to me like someone who knows essentially nothing about sex and who's just never experienced romantic or sexual attraction until now with Laurence. And viewing it that way, it's less problematic. It would've been better if we had just seen Quentin clearly express to Laurence that it's something he wants, but *shrug*. I felt it was realistic that things wouldn't go perfectly, that characters would sometimes make mistakes or get frustrated or be imperfect. And Quentin wasn't forced into anything. And now their feelings about sex seem to be slowly becoming more compatible.
Overall though, I'm getting into this series, and I enjoyed this book! The plot kept my attention, the psychic powers made things more interesting, the romance was sweet with a touch of emotional struggle, and I definitely want to learn more about Laurence and Quentin and see what more is in store for them.
*Rating: 4 Stars // Read Date: 2022 // Format: Ebook via TTS*
Recommended For:
Fans of Book 1 in A.K. Faulkner's Inheritance series. Anyone who likes psychic/telekinetic abilities, magic, sweet and strong m/m romance, slow-burn sex, and characters struggling with addiction and abuse trauma.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
Review:
Ok, I'm more into the series now.
First things first, Quentin didn't do the "one" thing or say "dear/old boy" as much, which was my biggest issue with the first book. It also helped him feel like he had more actual depth.
In fact, both Laurence and Quentin are likeable and memorable. I'm enjoying them as main characters and looking forward to getting to know them more and more.
Something this author does particularly well is write panic/anxiety spirals. Sometimes Quentin will suddenly panic and get lost in his thoughts, thoughts that just start spiraling out of control, and it really comes through in the way it's written.
The plot was great. Not super action-packed, but plenty going on to keep me reading. Pretty much independent of the events in the first book, and resolved by the end, but with the characters and their development and relationships and lives and growing psychic powers being the connecting threads, and the ending hinted at a bigger, overarching plot or events to come.
Despite some issues I have, which I'll get more into below, the romance is sweet and continuing to grow into something strong. They have some little emotional struggles here and there, but that just makes it even better for me, and it's only because they feel so strongly for each other. And shit, that bathtub scene was hot. The slow burn build up to it... Laurence's desperation... Quentin feeling things he's never felt before... Whew!
Talking about the sex, however, feels tricky. One character loves sex and wants to have it all the time. The other has a fear of physical intimacy and has only just started to be ok with a bit of kissing at the start of the book. Characters sometimes say/think/feel/do things that are a bit problematic or not ideal. Laurence sometimes gets frustrated with Quentin and pushes him a bit. Quentin sometimes ends up in situations that make him uncomfortable or panicked. There's a bit of a vibe that Quentin is the one who is wrong and needs to change. It could be upsetting to some readers. However, it seems Quentin isn't sex-repulsed, he might not even be asexual, rather he has fear/anxiety around sex but enjoys it when he's able to get past that. So he seems to me like someone who knows essentially nothing about sex and who's just never experienced romantic or sexual attraction until now with Laurence. And viewing it that way, it's less problematic. It would've been better if we had just seen Quentin clearly express to Laurence that it's something he wants, but *shrug*. I felt it was realistic that things wouldn't go perfectly, that characters would sometimes make mistakes or get frustrated or be imperfect. And Quentin wasn't forced into anything. And now their feelings about sex seem to be slowly becoming more compatible.
Overall though, I'm getting into this series, and I enjoyed this book! The plot kept my attention, the psychic powers made things more interesting, the romance was sweet with a touch of emotional struggle, and I definitely want to learn more about Laurence and Quentin and see what more is in store for them.
*Rating: 4 Stars // Read Date: 2022 // Format: Ebook via TTS*
Recommended For:
Fans of Book 1 in A.K. Faulkner's Inheritance series. Anyone who likes psychic/telekinetic abilities, magic, sweet and strong m/m romance, slow-burn sex, and characters struggling with addiction and abuse trauma.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
February 23, 2017
“If I should ever lose you, I want no other. Ever.”
All I want is to read more about Quentin and Laurence, their relationship is so sweet ant it always leaves you wanting more. Just like in the first book, in “Knight of Flames” every conflict that is introduced get resolved in the end, i love when books in series don’t end with cliffhangers because they don’t rely in the reader’s curiosity to find out how a conflict gets resolved but instead, their focus is in introducing interesting characters and creating strong relationships between them.
With Jack from the previous book dead, I was afraid that this book would not be as interesting as the first but thankfully, “Knight of Flames” did not disappoint. There are plenty of new characters introduced into the story, Laurence and Quentin continue their journey to find out more about themselves and a lot of characters discover new powers.
“It seemed beyond just “good with animals” and risked veering well into the realm of Disney princess.”
My favorite part though, will always be the romance between Laurence and Quentin. There might have been some obstacles and some frustration but I like the fact that they were able to solve all their disagreements without too much drama. What I loved most seeing in their relationship was the way they pushed each other to grow and the patience Laurence showed while helping Quentin with his fear about sex.
Compared to “Jack of Thorns”, Quentin’s progress here is huge, not only was he able to handle more sexual activities thanks to Laurence’s help, but because we see a lot more from his point of view, we have the chance to see him, as he comes to understand better his feelings about Laurence.
“How long until he saw Laurence? How much time before they were together again? The ache which only ever abated in the younger man’s presence was still with him, and it would begin anew the moment he stepped into a taxi this evening.”
Freddy was also a very intriguing character that was briefly mentioned in the previous book and appeared for the first time in this one. He is Quentin’s twin brother and though both had the same upbringing and have some similarities in their personalities, Freddy was handling the modern world better and was more aggressive when necessary. I enjoyed reading about him a lot and I would have liked to see more about him in the next books., Of course Quentin is still my favorite character, the way he stands out from the rest of the world and the way he interacts with other people will always be funny to read.
-“How about you just hand over anything valuable, huh?”
-“Why would I do such a thing?”
-“Uh. Because I told you to?”
-“Dear boy, if I always did as I was told I would not be here to begin with.”
I am really excited to see what the next installment in the Inheritance series will bring, even with Freddy’s appearance we still don’t know a lot of things about Quentin’s dark past, the possibility of him being abused becomes more and more certain so I would really like to see Quentin’s father appear. He is a person that is always mentioned and is portrayed by Quentin as someone evil and his perspective could give some answers.
I voluntarily reviewed the free copy that I received.
April 28, 2017
**4.5 stars**
This book is the second in the series and it's a great read. There is such tenderness between these main characters. The author does a great job of allowing the reader to feel the sexual tension between these two lovers, Quentin and Laurence. Quentin continues on his sexual exploration along with his poor self body image.
What has caused his scars? Why is he so afraid of his sexuality? Will he stick around or run as he has done in the past?
Even though there is very little sex in the book, what little there is, the author makes you feel the heat without having to have explicit sex scenes.
Additionally, the MCs get involved with some mysterious people to try to figure out if they are legitimate or not. Do they mean harm?
Quentin's brother comes into the picture. What is his agenda?
Great read if you like magic, sexual exploration between two men who love each other, mystery, and learning to love yourself despite your imperfections.
This book is the second in the series and it's a great read. There is such tenderness between these main characters. The author does a great job of allowing the reader to feel the sexual tension between these two lovers, Quentin and Laurence. Quentin continues on his sexual exploration along with his poor self body image.
What has caused his scars? Why is he so afraid of his sexuality? Will he stick around or run as he has done in the past?
Even though there is very little sex in the book, what little there is, the author makes you feel the heat without having to have explicit sex scenes.
Additionally, the MCs get involved with some mysterious people to try to figure out if they are legitimate or not. Do they mean harm?
Quentin's brother comes into the picture. What is his agenda?
Great read if you like magic, sexual exploration between two men who love each other, mystery, and learning to love yourself despite your imperfections.
September 19, 2022
Knight of Flames is the second book in AK Falkner’s urban fantasy series Inheritance, and Laurence and Quentin return as new obstacles come between them as they navigate their powers and relationship. Much of Quentin’s traumatic past is still hidden, but the sudden appearance of his twin brother may provide Laurence answers he isn’t ready for. Meanwhile, a fellow psychic with mind control powers has come to recruit Quentin into his team of “mutants”, but he may not be as benevolent as he claims to be.
I really enjoyed the growing intimacy between Quentin and Laurence and how they trying to move past Quentin’s trauma response to nearly any form of physical intimacy past kissing. The surprisingly tender bathroom scene really captured their chemistry and attraction and love for each other. The mystery behind Quentin’s past still remains hidden, but more and more is being hinted at.
The X-men-esque storyline was a bit of a surprise as I was seeing the story more from the fantasy lens, but it does make sense with the abilities both Quentin and Laurence have can be considered superpowers. Again, the book takes very dark turns along the way with potentially triggering mentions of forced suicides and physical violence. Like last time, Quentin and Laurence are forced to make tough choices to defeat their foe and figure out how much they are willing to do for the one they love.
Knight of Flames is a natural progression of the story and characters in this queer dark fantasy series that delivers on the dark themes and action and hints at even more.
I really enjoyed the growing intimacy between Quentin and Laurence and how they trying to move past Quentin’s trauma response to nearly any form of physical intimacy past kissing. The surprisingly tender bathroom scene really captured their chemistry and attraction and love for each other. The mystery behind Quentin’s past still remains hidden, but more and more is being hinted at.
The X-men-esque storyline was a bit of a surprise as I was seeing the story more from the fantasy lens, but it does make sense with the abilities both Quentin and Laurence have can be considered superpowers. Again, the book takes very dark turns along the way with potentially triggering mentions of forced suicides and physical violence. Like last time, Quentin and Laurence are forced to make tough choices to defeat their foe and figure out how much they are willing to do for the one they love.
Knight of Flames is a natural progression of the story and characters in this queer dark fantasy series that delivers on the dark themes and action and hints at even more.
March 5, 2018
"Quentin would tear the world apart for him, wouldn’t he?"
This was so good! Laurence and Quentin continue to oh-so-cautiously navigate the physical side of their relationship, while at the same time openly showing how absolutely devoted they are to each other (all within the context of a bunch of other stuff going on, of course).
“You don’t have to stay here if you don’t want to.” Quentin snorted. What a preposterous suggestion. Where on earth else could he possibly want to be?
The epilogue had me questioning some things - moving forward with the series is now IMPERATIVE.
This was so good! Laurence and Quentin continue to oh-so-cautiously navigate the physical side of their relationship, while at the same time openly showing how absolutely devoted they are to each other (all within the context of a bunch of other stuff going on, of course).
“You don’t have to stay here if you don’t want to.” Quentin snorted. What a preposterous suggestion. Where on earth else could he possibly want to be?
The epilogue had me questioning some things - moving forward with the series is now IMPERATIVE.
May 18, 2020
Once again Amelia Faulkner delivered a fantastic reading experience, with even better pacing and all the care and attention to detail in regards to the characters and their developing relationship that enchanted me in the first book.
In the second installment, a few months have passed since Laurence and Quentin defeated the god Jack. Laurence is dealing with his underlying fear that Quentin will leave, either because Laurence frightens him or that the suppressed and deep-seated dread Quentin has of his father finding him, which fuels his many relocations, will eventually overcome Quentin’s desire to be with Laurence. While working through the minefield that is the physical aspect of their relationship and Laurence’s worries about their relationship dynamics, Quentin meets a psychic named Kane, who runs a home for young psychics, and is asked to help the adolescents gain better control of their gifts. Although Quentin jumps at the chance to be useful and help kids who seemed to have been abandoned by their families/society, Laurence is hesitant to get involved with Kane, who has the ability to control minds and wants to eventually expose the existence of psychics.
As mentioned, this book benefited from a more even pacing/storyline. The MCs have acquired more confidence in their abilities and more caution regarding strangers with powers, well Laurence has, so there is less of the hesitancy and insecurity that slowed down and added circularity to their dealings with Jack and the use of their gifts. Moreover, the story focuses on learning about Kane and his motives, which is much more straightforward than dealing with a god you accidentally summoned while fearing for your life. Unfortunately, while you learn a little more about the events that isolated Quentin and led to his flight across the pond and see some of his family dynamics with the introduction of his twin brother, Frederick, you are still left in the dark about what makes Quentin so sometimes charmingly, sometimes frustratingly naive and what happened during his childhood that did so much emotional/mental damage.
Most importantly, to me at least, was that the story maintained the element that captured my attention and made me love the first book—the thoughtful exploration of the early aspects of courtship that usually get brushed aside for the “big finish” of physical intimacy. This book allows you to experience and enjoy each building block to trust and intimacy.
“It was an unfathomable gift. The opportunity to gain new memories, happy memories... He took a deep breath and held it, tasting the salt spray on the air. Every detail he could etch into his mind, every wash of the tide and every dip of Laurence’s head, had to be captured. He couldn’t bear the idea that he might forget something so precious.”
How can you not love an engaging, paranormal story with this much beauty in it?
January 4, 2017
If you haven’t read the first book in the Inheritance series, Jack of Thorns, I suggest you read that before you read this book. If you have read Jack of Thorns and are wondering if you should continue the series, you should.
The second book in the series gives you more of what you’ve grown to love, Laurence and Quentin and their hilarious and adorable personalities. Though we don’t find out much more about what Quentin is, we do come to understand that both boys are extremely unique and special–in a class all to their own, if you will.
Being able to watch those two interact again was the big win for me. On the downside, there were a lot of red flags about their relationship, which put a rather bitter taste in my mouth by the end of it. Starting with Laurence, we know he’s a drug addict and needs to stay sober because being drunk causes him to lose control of his addiction, and while Quentin is supportive–in that he doesn’t drink anymore either–their relationship has Laurence teetering on the edge of sobriety time and time again. At one point he flat out tells Quentin that he needs him to stay sober. That’s… really not good. In fact, that was so alarming I stopped seeing them as a cute couple and was immediately and severely concerned for the rest of the story. I no longer think they are suited for each other, and since there’s a third book on its way, I hope it addresses this issue or I may have to bail on the series. That’s how strongly I felt about it.
And Laurence isn’t the only one who’s a hot mess. Quentin is living outside his means, but seems incapable of making a decision–any decision–to gain control over his finances. He has powers he’s too afraid to use (most of the time), and he had intense anger/fear/denial issues. Not only that, but Laurence is a self professed slut and Quentin is… he doesn’t know what, but he’s certainly not interested in a sexual relationship with Laurence. He’s terrified of the idea of that, or of even letting Laurence see him naked.
Those are some pretty big obstacles to overcome, and to be fair, they are working on it, but meanwhile we have Laurence slowly losing his shit and Quentin slowly headed for the poor house. I’m not saying they aren’t made for each other just because Quentin may be asexual–far from it–but if they had asked my advice, I would have told them to both take a break from each other and work on themselves. Neither is fit for a relationship, especially not with each other.
The plot and the antagonist weren’t as great as I felt they could have been, but the pacing was good. I tore through this book rather quickly for the length, I must say. At the end of the novel I felt as if both characters had a larger purpose, but I still wonder if perhaps they could become more friends than boyfriends. It may help them focus.
All in all, a good read.
The second book in the series gives you more of what you’ve grown to love, Laurence and Quentin and their hilarious and adorable personalities. Though we don’t find out much more about what Quentin is, we do come to understand that both boys are extremely unique and special–in a class all to their own, if you will.
Being able to watch those two interact again was the big win for me. On the downside, there were a lot of red flags about their relationship, which put a rather bitter taste in my mouth by the end of it. Starting with Laurence, we know he’s a drug addict and needs to stay sober because being drunk causes him to lose control of his addiction, and while Quentin is supportive–in that he doesn’t drink anymore either–their relationship has Laurence teetering on the edge of sobriety time and time again. At one point he flat out tells Quentin that he needs him to stay sober. That’s… really not good. In fact, that was so alarming I stopped seeing them as a cute couple and was immediately and severely concerned for the rest of the story. I no longer think they are suited for each other, and since there’s a third book on its way, I hope it addresses this issue or I may have to bail on the series. That’s how strongly I felt about it.
And Laurence isn’t the only one who’s a hot mess. Quentin is living outside his means, but seems incapable of making a decision–any decision–to gain control over his finances. He has powers he’s too afraid to use (most of the time), and he had intense anger/fear/denial issues. Not only that, but Laurence is a self professed slut and Quentin is… he doesn’t know what, but he’s certainly not interested in a sexual relationship with Laurence. He’s terrified of the idea of that, or of even letting Laurence see him naked.
Those are some pretty big obstacles to overcome, and to be fair, they are working on it, but meanwhile we have Laurence slowly losing his shit and Quentin slowly headed for the poor house. I’m not saying they aren’t made for each other just because Quentin may be asexual–far from it–but if they had asked my advice, I would have told them to both take a break from each other and work on themselves. Neither is fit for a relationship, especially not with each other.
The plot and the antagonist weren’t as great as I felt they could have been, but the pacing was good. I tore through this book rather quickly for the length, I must say. At the end of the novel I felt as if both characters had a larger purpose, but I still wonder if perhaps they could become more friends than boyfriends. It may help them focus.
All in all, a good read.
January 6, 2017
Now this had much more going on than the first book of the series. The beginning did start off a bit slowly for me, but quickly moved up to speed with plenty of mystery and intrigue in addition to the advancement of Quentin and Laurence's physical relationship-though only by a bit in that area (and that bit certainly was intense).
With the introduction of Kane Wilson's character and the addition of Quentin's brother Freddy into the mix, the tension ratchets up quite a bit and as a reader I was constantly kept guessing as to where everything was going. I didn't trust either Kane or Freddy from the start, though much of my ire was drawn primarily toward Kane, particularly the further in to the story I got.
Knight of Flames shows there is so much more to all of this than what one might expect, and it served to really dig in and pique my interest a whole bunch more-I really need the next book ASAP as I just HAVE to know what's going to come next. From the slower start I had in the first book to where I'm at now at the end of this one, I can surely say I'm fully dragged into this storyline and can't wait for more!
4.5 stars for Knight of Flames, it really pulled me totally into this series not with gentle tugs but one hell of a huge yank. I'm highly recommending this series to M/M paranormal fans, and while the physical aspect of Quentin and Laurence's relationship may be on the heavier end of the R-rated spectrum, it's still going to have readers wanting more. It makes me wonder if when things really get heated between them if they're just going to explode ;-)
With the introduction of Kane Wilson's character and the addition of Quentin's brother Freddy into the mix, the tension ratchets up quite a bit and as a reader I was constantly kept guessing as to where everything was going. I didn't trust either Kane or Freddy from the start, though much of my ire was drawn primarily toward Kane, particularly the further in to the story I got.
Knight of Flames shows there is so much more to all of this than what one might expect, and it served to really dig in and pique my interest a whole bunch more-I really need the next book ASAP as I just HAVE to know what's going to come next. From the slower start I had in the first book to where I'm at now at the end of this one, I can surely say I'm fully dragged into this storyline and can't wait for more!
4.5 stars for Knight of Flames, it really pulled me totally into this series not with gentle tugs but one hell of a huge yank. I'm highly recommending this series to M/M paranormal fans, and while the physical aspect of Quentin and Laurence's relationship may be on the heavier end of the R-rated spectrum, it's still going to have readers wanting more. It makes me wonder if when things really get heated between them if they're just going to explode ;-)
August 23, 2016
Even better than the first book. These books are hard. They deal with issues of addiction, something that never goes away. Kidnapping. Sexual assault, which was only discussed about. Sexual issues, not sure if Quen is not sure about moving things forward because it's a man he is attracted too, possibly asexual or most likely demisexual. Or it might come down to he is afraid to lose control and let his talents inadvertently hurt Laurence. I know his scars really bother him. I have to jump to Fredrick for a second. You had to keep that hidden from them? They took a big risk opening up and telling you and you couldn't have done the same? And why did you take that to father? And what does father want with it. What is really going on in that house? When we first met Kane, I though he was a savior but little things he said and did made it easy for me to catch on to him. His ending was so appropriate. As for Quen's real weakness I kind of had that figured out before it was talked about. I love Ethan and hope Adien is the one. I so can't wait for the next book in the series.
This series will be going onto my multiple reading shelf
ARC graciously proved by the author in exchange for an honest review.
This series will be going onto my multiple reading shelf
ARC graciously proved by the author in exchange for an honest review.
October 31, 2016
2016 Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention: Knight of Flames by Amelia Faulkner
1) It's a fast-paced thriller and fairly comprehensible on its own, but as a sequel, it does refer back to events in Volume #1. Several settings, all clearly described, with reference to local weather events and their significance. Fairly realistic, considering that the major characters have superpowers and/or are descended from gods. Excellent writing style, including dialogue that shows differences between American and British characters. This novel manages to be a fast read despite being written from alternating viewpoints AND being over 600 pages long.
2) I loved this book completely from beginning to end. I adored to super Britishness of Quentin and Freddy, and how down-to-earth Laurence and his mom are, and the unapologetic bi characters – that this reads as a full-rainbow story is glorious. My only regret is that I didn’t read book one first (which makes for a bamboozling first couple of chapters, but I soon caught on), and I would recommend everyone does!
1) It's a fast-paced thriller and fairly comprehensible on its own, but as a sequel, it does refer back to events in Volume #1. Several settings, all clearly described, with reference to local weather events and their significance. Fairly realistic, considering that the major characters have superpowers and/or are descended from gods. Excellent writing style, including dialogue that shows differences between American and British characters. This novel manages to be a fast read despite being written from alternating viewpoints AND being over 600 pages long.
2) I loved this book completely from beginning to end. I adored to super Britishness of Quentin and Freddy, and how down-to-earth Laurence and his mom are, and the unapologetic bi characters – that this reads as a full-rainbow story is glorious. My only regret is that I didn’t read book one first (which makes for a bamboozling first couple of chapters, but I soon caught on), and I would recommend everyone does!
March 20, 2018
Things are starting to get clear here... The author is really clever hinting just enough, but if you pay attention you can guess where this is headed. However, its still interesting going there through her words. The world she've created is alive and full of surprises, some more unexpected than others.
In this book we meet interesting characters I hope we keep meeting them in next books because I'm curious about them and their motives. Let's see how that develops. I felt unconfortable at moments with some of the characters' actions, but they're flawed and it suits perfectly to the story. The ending left me wanting more (I'm off to start the third), but I know there's a horrible truth laying there somewhere and I'm dreading to read about it.
In this book we meet interesting characters I hope we keep meeting them in next books because I'm curious about them and their motives. Let's see how that develops. I felt unconfortable at moments with some of the characters' actions, but they're flawed and it suits perfectly to the story. The ending left me wanting more (I'm off to start the third), but I know there's a horrible truth laying there somewhere and I'm dreading to read about it.
June 13, 2017
I'm not going to finish this one. I should've stopped before 70%. Stupid sunk cost fallacy...
Reason one is, I'm bored. I was a little bored in the first book, but this one's pace is terrible.
Reason two is, I'm no longer invested in the slow-burn relationship. I've read a masterful slow burn relationship in 2 books (so far) that is wicked good. It's not the slowness. It's the utter stand-still. Hope needs some fuel, you know? Or at least distract me with other events.
Reason three is, my time is precious. I'm going to spend it elsewhere.
Reason one is, I'm bored. I was a little bored in the first book, but this one's pace is terrible.
Reason two is, I'm no longer invested in the slow-burn relationship. I've read a masterful slow burn relationship in 2 books (so far) that is wicked good. It's not the slowness. It's the utter stand-still. Hope needs some fuel, you know? Or at least distract me with other events.
Reason three is, my time is precious. I'm going to spend it elsewhere.
February 8, 2017
I loved this book completely from beginning to end. I adored to super Britishness of Quentin and Freddy, and how down-to-earth Laurence and his mom are, and the unapologetic bi characters – that this reads as a full-rainbow story is glorious. My only regret is that I didn’t read book one first (which makes for a bamboozling first couple of chapters, but I soon caught on), and I would recommend everyone does!
September 22, 2017
I jumped right into Knight of Flames after finishing Jack of Thorns, and I was not disappointed! Most of the beginning is giving Quentin and Laurence some time together as they adjust to life after Jack, and moreover, life together. It’s the adjustment period after the hecticness that was their meeting and first weeks together, and allows them (and us) the time to get to know them better, how they operate, and possibly most importantly, how they are considerate of each other’s needs and are concerned for the other’s well-being/safety – most of this is Laurence being considerate of Quentin and Quentin’s insecurities and fears, but Quentin also begins to acknowledge some of how his actions and words affect Laurence. It did a lot to advance the relationship between Quentin and Laurence, in many areas of their relationship, and showed also how they have built and are continuing to build trust with one another. Trust is no simple thing; there are many angles to it, many sides to consider.
What I found an interesting choice was that the main antagonist in this book did not make an appearance until 20% in – so Ms. Faulkner really wanted to show us more of Q&L together, and build up the romance portion larger than it was in the previous book. Where the romance in Jack of Thorns was very subdued, and bedroom shenanigans non-existent (hence the “light” in the description), we get a bit more into it in this book, but it evolves naturally, with that mutual trust and respect mentioned previously. I found it very positive that so much emphasis is given to making sure both partners are okay with the direction things are headed, and they listen and respond to each other’s needs:
The power to say no if he ever needed to.
That mattered. (page 15)
Of course, the positivity is not restricted to romance, but it extends to personal beliefs, sexual orientation, familial relationships (surprising as that may sound!), and different worldviews in general. The Big Ideas threaded through this novel are present in a very level, open, compassionate way, and really emulate some of how things might work “in a perfect world”.
Side note: I vastly appreciated the X-Men and Spider-Man references, veiled or not as they were!
Which brings me to the themes that came up in dealings with Kane Wilson. As noted in my status updates, so much of the ideas he presented and brought to the forefront in conversation with Quentin and others echoed very strongly themes brought up in X-Men – I can’t say much new ground was treaded, necessarily, but it was presented in such a way that it echoed true in both the fictional X-Men world and our real world. It brought that extra element of realism, of facing up to our actual reality, to the novel, making it that much more relatable. Right down to the powerful influence the media has over us. (I rather got a kick out of the diss given to one media outlet in particular.)
A few spoilery comments/musings I had:
I was happy to see, also, the continued presence of violent thoughts in Laurence’s mind, with varied amounts of questioning their presence. Basically, it means that I can’t hardly wait to see this expanded in the next book! What can I say, the whole dilemma of a burgeoning nature that is contrary to what you have nurtured as your proper nature really gets me intrigued. On the other hand, and as noted with Kane not making an appearance until 20% in, this book felt a bit off-balanced, a bit clunkier. Going along Quentin didn’t quite sound like the same (or even evolved) Quentin from the first book, or at least not quite as close. I also would have liked to see more of Quentin’s . There were still many good moments, and by and large I enjoyed it – I mean, I went and bought the third and final volume as soon as I finished the book! That says something, right there.
Favorite quotes plus some specific commentary:
[Quentin] could see that it made a certain sort of sense, to know what you were and to gain confidence that there was nothing wrong in it, but Quentin did not feel as though there was anything wrong in his interest in Laurence. It was out of the ordinary among his peers, yes, but nothing about it felt incorrect. – page 29
The idea that anyone would do harm to children was abhorrent. – page 89
…he reached for the knife block in the kitchen…careful to steer it into his hand across the intervening space without risking the dogs or his own fingers. – page 95 – Rather vague/ambiguous way to show that he used his telekinesis.
There was no cause to do [Quentin] ill, but the fact that Laurence perceived there may be one should really be something Quentin took more notice of in the future, should it not? – page 109 – Sounds like my mom about me getting rides with people I had only just met that day at a book/comic convention…
“ […] We exist. The things that we can do are not in our imaginations. So it does not matter where they come from. It changes nothing. […]” – page 119 (Quentin to Laurence).
“[…] There is nothing people covet so much as power, and when others have it and they do not it turns from desire to fear.” [Freddy explained] – page 166
“ […] We are slaves to our inheritances […]” – page 167 (Freddy)
[Laurence] Honesty with Quentin wasn’t so bad. It was the honesty with himself that hurt. – page 223-224
Typos:
Inconsistency:
He knew were Laurence’s hands had begun … -- page 35 – “were” should be “where”
…he was onto the second joint. – page 44 – I could be mistaken, but I think “onto” should be “on to” here.
…but managed to pull himself of them. – page 134 – should be “himself out of them”
He sipped, bit his drink was … - page 173 – “bit” should be “but”
We’ve even got zones were guns are flat-out illegal… -- page 205 – “were” should be “where”
Ethan stuffed a rice ball into his mouth… -- page 229 – It works, but I think it would be smoother if it was “Ethan had stuffed” because it was already done, not because he stuffs a rice ball in his mouth instead of answering the question.
Freddy spread his hands and laid them on the table either side of his plate. – page 230 – Better if it read “to either” or “on either”
Probably the Principal. -- page 254 – Principal should not be capitalized, as it is preceded by “the”
All this time without one of the trucks… -- page 298 – should be “with one”
…long enough convince… -- page 339 – should be “long enough to convince”
What I found an interesting choice was that the main antagonist in this book did not make an appearance until 20% in – so Ms. Faulkner really wanted to show us more of Q&L together, and build up the romance portion larger than it was in the previous book. Where the romance in Jack of Thorns was very subdued, and bedroom shenanigans non-existent (hence the “light” in the description), we get a bit more into it in this book, but it evolves naturally, with that mutual trust and respect mentioned previously. I found it very positive that so much emphasis is given to making sure both partners are okay with the direction things are headed, and they listen and respond to each other’s needs:
The power to say no if he ever needed to.
That mattered. (page 15)
Of course, the positivity is not restricted to romance, but it extends to personal beliefs, sexual orientation, familial relationships (surprising as that may sound!), and different worldviews in general. The Big Ideas threaded through this novel are present in a very level, open, compassionate way, and really emulate some of how things might work “in a perfect world”.
Side note: I vastly appreciated the X-Men and Spider-Man references, veiled or not as they were!
Which brings me to the themes that came up in dealings with Kane Wilson. As noted in my status updates, so much of the ideas he presented and brought to the forefront in conversation with Quentin and others echoed very strongly themes brought up in X-Men – I can’t say much new ground was treaded, necessarily, but it was presented in such a way that it echoed true in both the fictional X-Men world and our real world. It brought that extra element of realism, of facing up to our actual reality, to the novel, making it that much more relatable. Right down to the powerful influence the media has over us. (I rather got a kick out of the diss given to one media outlet in particular.)
A few spoilery comments/musings I had:
I was happy to see, also, the continued presence of violent thoughts in Laurence’s mind, with varied amounts of questioning their presence. Basically, it means that I can’t hardly wait to see this expanded in the next book! What can I say, the whole dilemma of a burgeoning nature that is contrary to what you have nurtured as your proper nature really gets me intrigued. On the other hand, and as noted with Kane not making an appearance until 20% in, this book felt a bit off-balanced, a bit clunkier. Going along Quentin didn’t quite sound like the same (or even evolved) Quentin from the first book, or at least not quite as close. I also would have liked to see more of Quentin’s . There were still many good moments, and by and large I enjoyed it – I mean, I went and bought the third and final volume as soon as I finished the book! That says something, right there.
Favorite quotes plus some specific commentary:
[Quentin] could see that it made a certain sort of sense, to know what you were and to gain confidence that there was nothing wrong in it, but Quentin did not feel as though there was anything wrong in his interest in Laurence. It was out of the ordinary among his peers, yes, but nothing about it felt incorrect. – page 29
The idea that anyone would do harm to children was abhorrent. – page 89
…he reached for the knife block in the kitchen…careful to steer it into his hand across the intervening space without risking the dogs or his own fingers. – page 95 – Rather vague/ambiguous way to show that he used his telekinesis.
There was no cause to do [Quentin] ill, but the fact that Laurence perceived there may be one should really be something Quentin took more notice of in the future, should it not? – page 109 – Sounds like my mom about me getting rides with people I had only just met that day at a book/comic convention…
“ […] We exist. The things that we can do are not in our imaginations. So it does not matter where they come from. It changes nothing. […]” – page 119 (Quentin to Laurence).
“[…] There is nothing people covet so much as power, and when others have it and they do not it turns from desire to fear.” [Freddy explained] – page 166
“ […] We are slaves to our inheritances […]” – page 167 (Freddy)
[Laurence] Honesty with Quentin wasn’t so bad. It was the honesty with himself that hurt. – page 223-224
Typos:
Inconsistency:
He knew were Laurence’s hands had begun … -- page 35 – “were” should be “where”
…he was onto the second joint. – page 44 – I could be mistaken, but I think “onto” should be “on to” here.
…but managed to pull himself of them. – page 134 – should be “himself out of them”
He sipped, bit his drink was … - page 173 – “bit” should be “but”
We’ve even got zones were guns are flat-out illegal… -- page 205 – “were” should be “where”
Ethan stuffed a rice ball into his mouth… -- page 229 – It works, but I think it would be smoother if it was “Ethan had stuffed” because it was already done, not because he stuffs a rice ball in his mouth instead of answering the question.
Freddy spread his hands and laid them on the table either side of his plate. – page 230 – Better if it read “to either” or “on either”
Probably the Principal. -- page 254 – Principal should not be capitalized, as it is preceded by “the”
All this time without one of the trucks… -- page 298 – should be “with one”
…long enough convince… -- page 339 – should be “long enough to convince”
July 9, 2017
An improvement over the first book. I'm a little frustrated by how slowly the "big picture" is developing, and given the fact that this book was 400+ pages and I just saw that book 5 was released recently . . . well, looks like you gotta be in it for the long haul with this series. This second book was enough of an improvement that, for now, I'm eager to see where it goes.
did-not-finish
October 21, 2019Given that I started reading this thing over a year ago and I'm still not done, I think I need to just admit that I'm not going to finish it. If, at some later date, I pick it back up, I can do so. But letting it sit in my "currently reading" pile is a lie. I'm not reading it. I haven't been reading it for a long time. It's time to stop pretending.
March 3, 2017
*I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review through the MMRG Don’t Buy My Love Program.*
Knight of Flames is the second book in Faulkner's Inheritance series. The first book, Jack of Thorns, saw me falling head over heels in love with the series's main couple, Laurence and Quentin. This second installment has me falling even deeper in love with this couple; I just can't get enough. Seriously, my offer to be a third in this relationship still stands...
(As an aside: We really need a ship name here. I'm tired of having to write out "Laurence and Quentin." Also, they really are so exquisitely matched. OTP forever! Perhaps QuLa, pronounced like koala? Or maybe Bambury? Or possibly Bamtin? I can't decide!! Ok; aside over.)
This was an absolutely fantastic read, managing - somehow - to be even better than the first. Characterization remains one of Faulkner's strong suits, as the pages of this book are littered with a diverse cast of nuanced, believable human characters who are trying to find their way in the world, albeit a world fraught with more danger than that inhabited by your standard human. Speaking of characters, readers are introduced to an ever-widening cast of secondary characters in this novel. I suspect they will begin to play larger and larger roles in the storyline that is yet to come.
While Knight of Flames is clearly a romance novel, the romance is not the entire focus of the book; rather, the romance is a framework around which a capable fantasy story is told, complete with villains to be stopped, harrowing and heartwarming heroics, and a web of connections shrouded in mystery. This installment does a great job of pulling readers even further into this world that Faulkner has created - exploring more nuances of the world's magic system (for lack of a better term), its power politics, and its history.
This is not to say that the romance isn't important. The relationship between Laurence and Quentin continues to be portrayed and developed in a masterful way. Faulkner deftly teases readers with moments both heartfelt and sensual, as our two main men navigate their relationship that is complicated by the pasts they each bring to it. Readers are greatly rewarded for sticking with this relationship through thick and thin (as if they had a choice). Knight of Flames contains the most sensual, artfully-presented handjob scene I've ever read. I can tell you it was quite awkward to read while on a plane...
Overall, I am happy to have had the opportunity to continue inhabiting both the heads and hearts of both Laurence and Quentin and I happily look forward to continuing the trend by reading Lord of Ravens, book 3 in the Inheritance series.
Trigger warning: This book contains depictions of and discussions about drug and alcohol abuse and addiction as well as underage prostitution.
Knight of Flames is the second book in Faulkner's Inheritance series. The first book, Jack of Thorns, saw me falling head over heels in love with the series's main couple, Laurence and Quentin. This second installment has me falling even deeper in love with this couple; I just can't get enough. Seriously, my offer to be a third in this relationship still stands...
(As an aside: We really need a ship name here. I'm tired of having to write out "Laurence and Quentin." Also, they really are so exquisitely matched. OTP forever! Perhaps QuLa, pronounced like koala? Or maybe Bambury? Or possibly Bamtin? I can't decide!! Ok; aside over.)
This was an absolutely fantastic read, managing - somehow - to be even better than the first. Characterization remains one of Faulkner's strong suits, as the pages of this book are littered with a diverse cast of nuanced, believable human characters who are trying to find their way in the world, albeit a world fraught with more danger than that inhabited by your standard human. Speaking of characters, readers are introduced to an ever-widening cast of secondary characters in this novel. I suspect they will begin to play larger and larger roles in the storyline that is yet to come.
While Knight of Flames is clearly a romance novel, the romance is not the entire focus of the book; rather, the romance is a framework around which a capable fantasy story is told, complete with villains to be stopped, harrowing and heartwarming heroics, and a web of connections shrouded in mystery. This installment does a great job of pulling readers even further into this world that Faulkner has created - exploring more nuances of the world's magic system (for lack of a better term), its power politics, and its history.
This is not to say that the romance isn't important. The relationship between Laurence and Quentin continues to be portrayed and developed in a masterful way. Faulkner deftly teases readers with moments both heartfelt and sensual, as our two main men navigate their relationship that is complicated by the pasts they each bring to it. Readers are greatly rewarded for sticking with this relationship through thick and thin (as if they had a choice). Knight of Flames contains the most sensual, artfully-presented handjob scene I've ever read. I can tell you it was quite awkward to read while on a plane...
Overall, I am happy to have had the opportunity to continue inhabiting both the heads and hearts of both Laurence and Quentin and I happily look forward to continuing the trend by reading Lord of Ravens, book 3 in the Inheritance series.
Trigger warning: This book contains depictions of and discussions about drug and alcohol abuse and addiction as well as underage prostitution.
August 31, 2016
I was gifted my copy of this book direct from the author, I thank Ms Faulkner for that!
Quentin and Laurence are getting on with their lives after dealing with Jack, getting to know one another, dating. First, Quentin meets Kane, who wants to build a better life for psychics, and then Quentin's twin brother, Freddy, turns up. Both Quentin and Laurence's powers are growing, ever more revealing what they can do. They need to get to the bottom of what Kane and Freddy really are up to, while still developing their relationship.
Book two, and you NEED to read book one, Jack of Thorns, before you embark on this one. It will not only give you a better understanding of what these two men went through, but also because I SAID SO! And its a five star read, so read book one.
Quentin has been teaching himself how to control his powers, using methods taught by Laurence. But he is keeping something from Laurence, and it is revealed spectacularly here. OH! We know, of course we do, but Laurence doesn't, and the others involved don't. And I loved that its kept from everyone til that point. We get more of Quentin and his background, his upbringing, but still, I don't think we have it all. I think there is much MUCH more to come. I think Quentin has buried it deep, and it will take some time for Faulkner to dig it out of him. When we finally get it all, its gonna be bad, I know it is. Real bad. We have little hints, reactions, comments, here that make you think. But I'm not thinking too hard to put it together, not yet, because I have a feel I'm gonna be so terribly wrong.
Quen and Laurence's relationship, both emotional and physical, continues to grow. Slowly, steadily, but still growing. Still fairly low on the steam range, but its growing, getting hotter, along with Quentin's powers. Its so beautifully written, how they are growing into their relationship, so very beautifully put across from both man's point of view.
It doesn't quite carry the cliff hanger that book one does, but it does carry a very intriguing epilogue told from Freddy's point of view. Makes you ask questions, questions and more questions. Can't wait to find out just what he is up to, and just what it is he can do!
Little bit sexier, but so much more deadlier than book one, I thought. Still, it gets...
5 stars
**same worded review will appear on Goodreads, BookLikes, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.com and Barnes and Noble**
Quentin and Laurence are getting on with their lives after dealing with Jack, getting to know one another, dating. First, Quentin meets Kane, who wants to build a better life for psychics, and then Quentin's twin brother, Freddy, turns up. Both Quentin and Laurence's powers are growing, ever more revealing what they can do. They need to get to the bottom of what Kane and Freddy really are up to, while still developing their relationship.
Book two, and you NEED to read book one, Jack of Thorns, before you embark on this one. It will not only give you a better understanding of what these two men went through, but also because I SAID SO! And its a five star read, so read book one.
Quentin has been teaching himself how to control his powers, using methods taught by Laurence. But he is keeping something from Laurence, and it is revealed spectacularly here. OH! We know, of course we do, but Laurence doesn't, and the others involved don't. And I loved that its kept from everyone til that point. We get more of Quentin and his background, his upbringing, but still, I don't think we have it all. I think there is much MUCH more to come. I think Quentin has buried it deep, and it will take some time for Faulkner to dig it out of him. When we finally get it all, its gonna be bad, I know it is. Real bad. We have little hints, reactions, comments, here that make you think. But I'm not thinking too hard to put it together, not yet, because I have a feel I'm gonna be so terribly wrong.
Quen and Laurence's relationship, both emotional and physical, continues to grow. Slowly, steadily, but still growing. Still fairly low on the steam range, but its growing, getting hotter, along with Quentin's powers. Its so beautifully written, how they are growing into their relationship, so very beautifully put across from both man's point of view.
It doesn't quite carry the cliff hanger that book one does, but it does carry a very intriguing epilogue told from Freddy's point of view. Makes you ask questions, questions and more questions. Can't wait to find out just what he is up to, and just what it is he can do!
Little bit sexier, but so much more deadlier than book one, I thought. Still, it gets...
5 stars
**same worded review will appear on Goodreads, BookLikes, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.com and Barnes and Noble**
January 21, 2017
Book & Author: Knight of Flames by Amelia Faulkner (Inheritance Series)
Rating: 5 Stars
I am in love, IN LOVE I tell you, with this series.
Knight of Flames is book two in the Inheritance series and focuses more on Quentin then book one did. It gives us a little more of a glimpse in his thoughts and background which is helped along by the appearance of his twin brother Freddy.
The main draw to this series for me are two things...well okay that’s a lie. I love it all. The bad guys who we think are good guys, the good guys who I am still not sure aren’t really bad guys, the kids (OMG the kids!!!), and the ever evolving and growing powers of both men. But what I connect with the most is this journey that Quentin and Laurence are on. The struggle with their powers, learning to trust each other at the same time they are are still getting to know about each other with so much still left unknown about Quentin past and the cause for his panic.
Quentin and Laurence's journey, which is not easy, but is worth every struggle to see the little break throughs that they work at together. With their ever changing powers things can get dangerous fast. When Laurence learns of his ancestors it gives him a place, a starting point to figure his own self our. We still do not know a lot about Quentin but he is so much more of a complex character, one of the best I’ve seen in a long time. He’s not confusing but he is confused. Only one thing is certain for him, he cannot live without Laurence.
I can’t be without you, darling. I need you. I can’t bear to be apart.
Whatever that costs, I will spend it gladly, because I love you.”
He leaned into Laurence’s touch and rested his hands against the taller man’s chest.
“I love you,” he whispered.
The appearance of new secondary characters in this book added many layers to a already filled story. Some of these characters gave me an AH HA moment while others it was more questioning what part they would play in the scheme of things. That is just another thing I loved about this story that each of those characters are not fillers for space or plot they are important to the overall story of Laurence and Quentin.
I cannot wait what book three has in store for me!
*I received a copy of this book through http://diversereader.blogspot.com/*
Rating: 5 Stars
I am in love, IN LOVE I tell you, with this series.
Knight of Flames is book two in the Inheritance series and focuses more on Quentin then book one did. It gives us a little more of a glimpse in his thoughts and background which is helped along by the appearance of his twin brother Freddy.
The main draw to this series for me are two things...well okay that’s a lie. I love it all. The bad guys who we think are good guys, the good guys who I am still not sure aren’t really bad guys, the kids (OMG the kids!!!), and the ever evolving and growing powers of both men. But what I connect with the most is this journey that Quentin and Laurence are on. The struggle with their powers, learning to trust each other at the same time they are are still getting to know about each other with so much still left unknown about Quentin past and the cause for his panic.
Quentin and Laurence's journey, which is not easy, but is worth every struggle to see the little break throughs that they work at together. With their ever changing powers things can get dangerous fast. When Laurence learns of his ancestors it gives him a place, a starting point to figure his own self our. We still do not know a lot about Quentin but he is so much more of a complex character, one of the best I’ve seen in a long time. He’s not confusing but he is confused. Only one thing is certain for him, he cannot live without Laurence.
I can’t be without you, darling. I need you. I can’t bear to be apart.
Whatever that costs, I will spend it gladly, because I love you.”
He leaned into Laurence’s touch and rested his hands against the taller man’s chest.
“I love you,” he whispered.
The appearance of new secondary characters in this book added many layers to a already filled story. Some of these characters gave me an AH HA moment while others it was more questioning what part they would play in the scheme of things. That is just another thing I loved about this story that each of those characters are not fillers for space or plot they are important to the overall story of Laurence and Quentin.
I cannot wait what book three has in store for me!
*I received a copy of this book through http://diversereader.blogspot.com/*
August 25, 2016
*I received a free copy of this book from the author, in exchange for an honest review*
This is the second in the Inheritance series by Amelia Faulkner and I would not recommend it to be read as a standalone, as you would miss too much of the back story and Laurence's background, as well as how our unlikely couple met.
In this second instalment we focus mainly on Quentin's story. We start off a short while after book 1 finished. Both are recovered from Jack's attack, both are sober and have been for weeks on end and Laurence is frustrated and horny as Quentin's issues will not allow any intimacies beyond kissing.
Out jogging Quentin meets a mysterious stranger, who attempt to mug him with no success. The stranger later seeks Quentin out again, laying out the fact, that he is another psychic and a self proclaimed Robin Hood, who steals from the rich to feed and care for gifted children.
Quentin's brother shows up in San Diego and Quentin has to figure out how to stop running from his past or else to live without Laurence.
This story was great. Gripping from the get go and I loved that it was mainly centered around Quentin and his powers and personal growth. Don't get me wrong, there is loads of action and suspense too, but mainly this is a story of Quentin coming into his powers. Magnificently so. There are still layers and layers of vulnerability and secrets to be discovered about him and his past, but the parts that are revealed in Knight of Flames, shows a man that moves in leaps and bounds from the person we first met at the beginning of Jack of Thorns.
Once again Ms. Faulkner leaves us with enough of a HFN ending to satisfy, but also with an alluring tidbit of what's to come, which will leave you chomping at the bit for the next book in the series!
4-4.5 stars. A warmly recommended series so far. Cannot wait to continue.
This is the second in the Inheritance series by Amelia Faulkner and I would not recommend it to be read as a standalone, as you would miss too much of the back story and Laurence's background, as well as how our unlikely couple met.
In this second instalment we focus mainly on Quentin's story. We start off a short while after book 1 finished. Both are recovered from Jack's attack, both are sober and have been for weeks on end and Laurence is frustrated and horny as Quentin's issues will not allow any intimacies beyond kissing.
Out jogging Quentin meets a mysterious stranger, who attempt to mug him with no success. The stranger later seeks Quentin out again, laying out the fact, that he is another psychic and a self proclaimed Robin Hood, who steals from the rich to feed and care for gifted children.
Quentin's brother shows up in San Diego and Quentin has to figure out how to stop running from his past or else to live without Laurence.
This story was great. Gripping from the get go and I loved that it was mainly centered around Quentin and his powers and personal growth. Don't get me wrong, there is loads of action and suspense too, but mainly this is a story of Quentin coming into his powers. Magnificently so. There are still layers and layers of vulnerability and secrets to be discovered about him and his past, but the parts that are revealed in Knight of Flames, shows a man that moves in leaps and bounds from the person we first met at the beginning of Jack of Thorns.
Once again Ms. Faulkner leaves us with enough of a HFN ending to satisfy, but also with an alluring tidbit of what's to come, which will leave you chomping at the bit for the next book in the series!
4-4.5 stars. A warmly recommended series so far. Cannot wait to continue.
September 3, 2016
Ever since I read the first book in this series, all I could think of was - what's next for Laurence and Quentin?! And WHEN can I read it?! Jack of Thorns was one of my favorite stories from earlier this year and I couldn't wait for more!
Well, the follow up/continuation of their story has been worth the wait! I definitely do not recommend starting with this one - please, please start with the first book in the series and get ready for fall in love with these characters.
The story was gripping...it deals with serious, real issues, and you just have to root for Quentin and Laurence to keep sober, to make things work, and also for them hopefully reach a level of intimacy since Quentin has issues that doesn't allow them to get very physical. I also really love that this one got into Quentin's family and past, and we got to meet his brother, learn about his father and the family history.
While this does end on somewhat of a HFN type of ending, I know that Quentin and Laurence are totally IT for each other, definitely end game together. But the epilogue definitely has me wanting more NOW, gotta know what happens next! If you want to read something with fantastic storytelling and great characters, then I completely recommend this!
I received an ARC copy of this in exchange for an honest review.
Well, the follow up/continuation of their story has been worth the wait! I definitely do not recommend starting with this one - please, please start with the first book in the series and get ready for fall in love with these characters.
The story was gripping...it deals with serious, real issues, and you just have to root for Quentin and Laurence to keep sober, to make things work, and also for them hopefully reach a level of intimacy since Quentin has issues that doesn't allow them to get very physical. I also really love that this one got into Quentin's family and past, and we got to meet his brother, learn about his father and the family history.
While this does end on somewhat of a HFN type of ending, I know that Quentin and Laurence are totally IT for each other, definitely end game together. But the epilogue definitely has me wanting more NOW, gotta know what happens next! If you want to read something with fantastic storytelling and great characters, then I completely recommend this!
I received an ARC copy of this in exchange for an honest review.
February 20, 2017
I didn't like this one as much as the first one, I'm afraid. I still liked it, mind you, but not as much as its predecessor. I found it predictable and Quentin's naiveté about his own body almost drove me to distraction. If the man is asexual, fine. If the man doesn't like sex, fine. If the man has had some past trauma and is afraid os sex, fine. But a 24yo pulling the old confused, 'what's this going on with my body' schtick makes I want to scream. And his refusal to even look at or name his own anatomy, let alone Laurence's annoyed me. How has a man lived 24 years and never experienced his own body? Dislike it, avoid it, shun it, sure. But don't pretend he's somehow lived his own life without ever noticing it was there or what biology makes happen every day! He comes across as if he might be on the Aspergers spectrum somewhere, but even then I'd expect him to know he has a penis, what it does and what it's for, even if he doesn't like it.
I liked the introduction of Frederick, Ethan and Adrien as side characters and I still find Laurence and Quentin a cute couple. I'm curious to see what is in Quentin's past and how things progress.
I liked the introduction of Frederick, Ethan and Adrien as side characters and I still find Laurence and Quentin a cute couple. I'm curious to see what is in Quentin's past and how things progress.
February 9, 2021
Absolutely wonderful follow-up to the first Inheritance book! The development of main characters Laurence and Quentin is wonderful, showing the natural progression not only with their own interactions but with how each of them deal with the characters on the periphery. There is an evolution to their abilities, though admittedly we see far less from Laurence than we do from Quentin this time around, but both are getting more comfortable in their own skin and with what makes them truly special.
Absolutely wonderful LGBTQ representation, just like in the last book, without being over the top or coming across as pandering, nor simply being as simple as gay or straight. I love the other parts of the spectrum being included and spotlighted, and I'm sure others will too.
Absolutely wonderful LGBTQ representation, just like in the last book, without being over the top or coming across as pandering, nor simply being as simple as gay or straight. I love the other parts of the spectrum being included and spotlighted, and I'm sure others will too.
April 17, 2017
I tried, really I tried. But having gotten through 50%, I gave up. I enjoy stories with well-developed characters, which this one has, but I also need need a story with action and a build up of tension. Just too meandering for my tastes.
August 2, 2025
Ohhhhh that was good!!! So queer! Little bit of spice in this one. More abilities, more fabulous characters, and that ending! Oh I can't wait to see what these folk get up to next
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