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Cronin's Key #4
Kennard's Story
Kennard and Stas have been enjoying being newly bonded mates, hidden away for the last six months in Stas' cabin, deep in the forests of Northern Russia. When they get a visit from Alec, Cronin, Eiji, and Jodis, Kennard and Stas decide to return to London where they get news of a supernatural disturbance in India. Excited for a new adventure, the band of friends embark on a journey like they've never seen before. Following a trail of snakes and serpents, they slip through gates into timeless dimensions all over the world, leaving them without their vampire powers. Even Alec is powerless as they follow a trail of gates and doorways to their final destination. But the bad guy isn't who they think it is, and Kennard will need to draw on his past to save their future. Because history is never what it seems...
156 pages, Paperback
First published January 26, 2019
198 people are currently reading
694 people want to read
About the author
N.R. Walker
139 books5,176 followersAuthor also writes as A. Voyeur
N.R. Walker is an Australian author, who loves her genre of gay romance. She loves writing and spends far too much time doing it, but wouldn't have it any other way.
She is many things; a mother, a wife, a sister, a writer. She has pretty, pretty boys who she gives them life with words.
She likes it when they do dirty, dirty things...but likes it even more when they fall in love. She used to think having people in her head talking to her was weird, until one day she happened across other writers who told her it was normal.
She’s been writing ever since...
https://www.facebook.com/N.R.WalkerAu...
N.R. Walker is an Australian author, who loves her genre of gay romance. She loves writing and spends far too much time doing it, but wouldn't have it any other way.
She is many things; a mother, a wife, a sister, a writer. She has pretty, pretty boys who she gives them life with words.
She likes it when they do dirty, dirty things...but likes it even more when they fall in love. She used to think having people in her head talking to her was weird, until one day she happened across other writers who told her it was normal.
She’s been writing ever since...
https://www.facebook.com/N.R.WalkerAu...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews
January 26, 2019
I think the title is slightly misleading. While, yes, the story is told from Kennard's third-person perspective, this isn't as much Kennard's story as it is another adventure with Alec, Cronin, Eiji, and Jodis.
Kennard and Stas spend a few months getting to know each other in the most carnal way possible. The first couple chapters show them together and how close they've grown. I loved this and wanted more. Alas, that was not to be!
Alec and Co. show up and recruit Kennard and Stas to help them fight another power-hungry vampire, this one located in a sealed-up Indian temple.
I won't get into the details, but the plot arc follows the one established in the previous books. I wish there had been more focus on Kennard and Stas's relationship. We do get some background on Kennard's human family and how he was turned.
The ending is a HEA, because of course it is. Kennard and Stas are fated mates after all. I just wanted more sweetness and steam.
I love N.R. Walker's writing style; this book isn't long, and I read it in one sitting.
If you've read the other books, you'll enjoy this action-packed adventure. Please note that Kennard's Story cannot be read as a standalone.
Kennard and Stas spend a few months getting to know each other in the most carnal way possible. The first couple chapters show them together and how close they've grown. I loved this and wanted more. Alas, that was not to be!
Alec and Co. show up and recruit Kennard and Stas to help them fight another power-hungry vampire, this one located in a sealed-up Indian temple.
I won't get into the details, but the plot arc follows the one established in the previous books. I wish there had been more focus on Kennard and Stas's relationship. We do get some background on Kennard's human family and how he was turned.
The ending is a HEA, because of course it is. Kennard and Stas are fated mates after all. I just wanted more sweetness and steam.
I love N.R. Walker's writing style; this book isn't long, and I read it in one sitting.
If you've read the other books, you'll enjoy this action-packed adventure. Please note that Kennard's Story cannot be read as a standalone.
April 21, 2019
3.5 Stars
Yep. I’m a broken record again.
Shifting slightly to focus on newly mated vamps Kennard and Stas, Walker continues to take real life history, interweaving those events into a plot that’s impressive in scope and imagination.
I admit, the intricate details of everything that went down and everyone who participated in the prior 3 books is a lot hazy. However, this was a nice visit with Cronin, Alec, and company, who are heroic as ever and are always at the ready to save the day from paranormal/supernatural domination.
This was easy breezy entertainment, full of all the mate mojo and love one can handle in a short 156 pages!
Yep. I’m a broken record again.
Shifting slightly to focus on newly mated vamps Kennard and Stas, Walker continues to take real life history, interweaving those events into a plot that’s impressive in scope and imagination.
I admit, the intricate details of everything that went down and everyone who participated in the prior 3 books is a lot hazy. However, this was a nice visit with Cronin, Alec, and company, who are heroic as ever and are always at the ready to save the day from paranormal/supernatural domination.
This was easy breezy entertainment, full of all the mate mojo and love one can handle in a short 156 pages!
March 18, 2019
4 Stars
In this fourth installment, newly mated vampires, Kennard and Stas, join forces with their friends, Alec, Cronin, Jodis and Eiji, to risk their lives in yet another dangerous and thankless mission through time and history, in an effort to save humanity from a new (but familiar) evil that is hell-bent on unleashing their unwelcome brand of crazy upon our world.
This was all things fun, adventurous, and romantic, and, as always, I’m left in awe of the way Walker impressively wove historical facts with her own brand of unique fantasy fiction, putting a cool-as-hell spin on some famous figures and well-known events throughout history and in myth.
Although this was technically Kennard and Stas story, it was certainly an ensemble piece, with the whole gang playing major roles and being present throughout the entirety of the story. I loved this and I didn’t think it took anything away from Kennard and Stas’ romance, as I’d much rather enjoy the group dynamics and endlessly amusing banter between all of these characters than solely be following two loved up fated mates in their romantic exploits.
In particular, it was great to see Alec now well-established in his vampirism and utilising his kick-ass vamp-y powers like an all-powerful god. He’s fairly impressive, and in truth it’s a bit scary what he’s capable of, but that's half the fun! His and Cronin’s love is still as epic and swoon-worthy as ever, too, and it was certainly nice to revisit these guys once again.
It was also especially awesome to learn about Kennard’s astonishing, but tragic human past – it was definitely a fun yet clever spin on British history, which I absolutely loved.
Honestly, I didn’t realise I wanted more of this series, but I’m damn glad I got it!
In this fourth installment, newly mated vampires, Kennard and Stas, join forces with their friends, Alec, Cronin, Jodis and Eiji, to risk their lives in yet another dangerous and thankless mission through time and history, in an effort to save humanity from a new (but familiar) evil that is hell-bent on unleashing their unwelcome brand of crazy upon our world.
This was all things fun, adventurous, and romantic, and, as always, I’m left in awe of the way Walker impressively wove historical facts with her own brand of unique fantasy fiction, putting a cool-as-hell spin on some famous figures and well-known events throughout history and in myth.
Although this was technically Kennard and Stas story, it was certainly an ensemble piece, with the whole gang playing major roles and being present throughout the entirety of the story. I loved this and I didn’t think it took anything away from Kennard and Stas’ romance, as I’d much rather enjoy the group dynamics and endlessly amusing banter between all of these characters than solely be following two loved up fated mates in their romantic exploits.
In particular, it was great to see Alec now well-established in his vampirism and utilising his kick-ass vamp-y powers like an all-powerful god. He’s fairly impressive, and in truth it’s a bit scary what he’s capable of, but that's half the fun! His and Cronin’s love is still as epic and swoon-worthy as ever, too, and it was certainly nice to revisit these guys once again.
It was also especially awesome to learn about Kennard’s astonishing, but tragic human past – it was definitely a fun yet clever spin on British history, which I absolutely loved.
Honestly, I didn’t realise I wanted more of this series, but I’m damn glad I got it!
January 28, 2019
This was a nice short novella, and I liked it. Consistent with the theme of all Cronin's Key books this has all the adventure you can stand with a side heaping of humor and adorable vampires. I loved how Ms Walker spun Kennard and Stas' stories. It was a very curious take on history. Overall, light and funny story full of myths and folklore. I recommend it!
January 26, 2021
Like links in the chain of history, the Key leads on.
Mythology, fairy tales, ancient history, archeology, religion, gods, monsters, pyramids, fire, water, stone, air, symbols, astrology astronomy, mathematics, geometry, signs, language, royalty, deities, creatures, transformation, alchemy, light, dark, portals, history, inheritance, wars, land, countries, doorways, and passages are all tied together in ways not seen by modern men. The Key is the key to it all and is learning about what and why the modern world is still laced together in ways that bind everyone and everything into a network of myth, magic, marvel, and method to make it work.
This is not a good book to read if you do not like snakes and dragons. But it does explain the links of many things to each other, and the love that holds it together.
Mythology, fairy tales, ancient history, archeology, religion, gods, monsters, pyramids, fire, water, stone, air, symbols, astrology astronomy, mathematics, geometry, signs, language, royalty, deities, creatures, transformation, alchemy, light, dark, portals, history, inheritance, wars, land, countries, doorways, and passages are all tied together in ways not seen by modern men. The Key is the key to it all and is learning about what and why the modern world is still laced together in ways that bind everyone and everything into a network of myth, magic, marvel, and method to make it work.
This is not a good book to read if you do not like snakes and dragons. But it does explain the links of many things to each other, and the love that holds it together.
February 5, 2019
3.5*
Another enjoyable read.
I love Kennard and I’m so happy he’s finally found his mate Stas. The beginning of this book was fabulous. Kennard and Stas enjoying some alone time.
Now personally I would have liked more of this. More time with just these two. But another adventure calls and so along with Alec and Cronin, Elji and Jadis they set off.
I’m loving this series and these characters. Now these books are not without their faults hence the rating but they are a good read.
Another enjoyable read.
I love Kennard and I’m so happy he’s finally found his mate Stas. The beginning of this book was fabulous. Kennard and Stas enjoying some alone time.
Now personally I would have liked more of this. More time with just these two. But another adventure calls and so along with Alec and Cronin, Elji and Jadis they set off.
I’m loving this series and these characters. Now these books are not without their faults hence the rating but they are a good read.
January 30, 2019
4 stars.
I recently found out that Kennard was getting his own book and I was super excited to get in my hands. I mean hell, I loved the first 3 books.
While this was fast paced with lots of action - which I enjoyed - I wish we got more of Kennard and Stas. It honestly didn't feel like their story half the time. But I'm glad we got to see more of the rest of the crew from the previous books.
It was short and sweet with lots of LOL moments. I've always been a fan of NR Walker and I always will be. I can't wait to read more.
Find me on: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Blog
I recently found out that Kennard was getting his own book and I was super excited to get in my hands. I mean hell, I loved the first 3 books.
While this was fast paced with lots of action - which I enjoyed - I wish we got more of Kennard and Stas. It honestly didn't feel like their story half the time. But I'm glad we got to see more of the rest of the crew from the previous books.
It was short and sweet with lots of LOL moments. I've always been a fan of NR Walker and I always will be. I can't wait to read more.
Find me on: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Blog
December 26, 2021
Kennard nunca penso que podria tener a su pareja destinada, pero cuando aparece junto a el en Rusia en medio de un nuevo complot para destruir el mundo, lo unico que puede pensar es, el es para mi y no voy a pederlo de vista nunca mas. Asi que cuando lograron derrocar a las gargolas, el y Stan se internaron durante meses en la cabaña de Stan en los bosques de Rusia y hasta que no aparecieron en su puerta Cronin y Alec, no se preocuparon por el mundo exterior.
Pero su escases de preocupacion no evita que surga otro ser que quiera dominar el mundo, pero en este caso no son solo los poderes de Alec lo que le ayudaran a derrocarlo, sino el poder de la misma sangre de Kennard y del pasado que simpre ha querido olvida.
Es un buen spin-off, bastante corto, que nos ayuda a conocer mas de la historia de Kennard, aunque no mucho mas de la historia de Stan. Tiene todos los elementos de los libros anteriores, pero le falto algo que impidio que me atrapara igual que los anteriores, pero es un buen libro extra de la saga, que no es necesario leer si no se quiere, pero que aporta un poquito mas de historia de uno de los secundarios que tan poco conocemos.
Es una lastima que el libro no estuviera basado en Eiji y Jodis, que aunque se mencionan mucho en los libros, realmente no se sabe mucho de ellos.
Pero bueno, al final es una saga que vale la pena leer, es divertida, entretenida, llena de accion y bastante romance, ademas de mucho humor.
Pero su escases de preocupacion no evita que surga otro ser que quiera dominar el mundo, pero en este caso no son solo los poderes de Alec lo que le ayudaran a derrocarlo, sino el poder de la misma sangre de Kennard y del pasado que simpre ha querido olvida.
Es un buen spin-off, bastante corto, que nos ayuda a conocer mas de la historia de Kennard, aunque no mucho mas de la historia de Stan. Tiene todos los elementos de los libros anteriores, pero le falto algo que impidio que me atrapara igual que los anteriores, pero es un buen libro extra de la saga, que no es necesario leer si no se quiere, pero que aporta un poquito mas de historia de uno de los secundarios que tan poco conocemos.
Es una lastima que el libro no estuviera basado en Eiji y Jodis, que aunque se mencionan mucho en los libros, realmente no se sabe mucho de ellos.
Pero bueno, al final es una saga que vale la pena leer, es divertida, entretenida, llena de accion y bastante romance, ademas de mucho humor.
January 27, 2019
I was curious about Kennard since the first time I met him in Cronin's story. And Walker didn't disappoint me by giving him his own story. And what a story this is! Then enter Stas, a gentle giant vampire from Russia, and no vampire more adorable and sweet as he is! I'm falling in love with Stas. And the way he wanted and and clinged to Kennard...oh my, made me wanted my very own Stas :)
Then we are of course meet Alec, Cronin, Jodis and Eiji.
Speaking of Eiji, poor baby had to deal with all his friend's bullying! LOL!
Loved this story as much as I loved the previous books in the series.
I don't think I can get enough with these guys.
More please!
Then we are of course meet Alec, Cronin, Jodis and Eiji.
Speaking of Eiji, poor baby had to deal with all his friend's bullying! LOL!
Loved this story as much as I loved the previous books in the series.
I don't think I can get enough with these guys.
More please!
January 8, 2024
3.5 Stars
Tbh, I was beyond excited when I saw this today. It was unexpected, but I was somewhat disappointed. Maybe my expectations were too high. I loved the other books in this series, and I loved Kennard in all the other books. The relationship progression was non existent in this book. I wish we could've seen Stas and Kennard before they disappeared into the woods. It was more adventure than relationship, and left me wanting more. However, N.R. is still one of my faves!
Tbh, I was beyond excited when I saw this today. It was unexpected, but I was somewhat disappointed. Maybe my expectations were too high. I loved the other books in this series, and I loved Kennard in all the other books. The relationship progression was non existent in this book. I wish we could've seen Stas and Kennard before they disappeared into the woods. It was more adventure than relationship, and left me wanting more. However, N.R. is still one of my faves!
October 15, 2020
3.5 Stars
So, coming back to stories after I've read the previous installment so long ago, is always weird...and I think my next year's resolution is to re-read at LEAST the prior book in a series before starting a new one because while this one was good, I didn't likee it as much as I remember liking the others.
Of course, I also listened to most of those and that when it's a good narrator it makes the whole experience more enjoyable. Hopefully this one will be audio as well.
That said, this was still a good story. NRW does such a good job of taking historical people and/or events and putting a supernatural/paranormal spin to them.
So, coming back to stories after I've read the previous installment so long ago, is always weird...and I think my next year's resolution is to re-read at LEAST the prior book in a series before starting a new one because while this one was good, I didn't likee it as much as I remember liking the others.
Of course, I also listened to most of those and that when it's a good narrator it makes the whole experience more enjoyable. Hopefully this one will be audio as well.
That said, this was still a good story. NRW does such a good job of taking historical people and/or events and putting a supernatural/paranormal spin to them.
February 10, 2019
3.5 stars
February 7, 2022
not quite what the readers wanted from this story I think.
Instead of focusing on what happens directly after Kennard and Stas meet - which I think we can agree on would've been really interesting (the culture clash, the language barrier, etc etc) it jumps ahead to them having been together for a bit.
We do get to check in with Alec and the crew, go on a little adventure, which was nice and all, but a little boring tbh. Which is why I put off reading this for so long.
Instead of focusing on what happens directly after Kennard and Stas meet - which I think we can agree on would've been really interesting (the culture clash, the language barrier, etc etc) it jumps ahead to them having been together for a bit.
We do get to check in with Alec and the crew, go on a little adventure, which was nice and all, but a little boring tbh. Which is why I put off reading this for so long.
February 25, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
The story is mainly told from Kennard’s point of view, though there are a couple of choice chapters when we get to reconnect with Alec and Cronin directly. Alec’s powers enable him to carry people in physical contact with him through any portal—because he is a “key.” In the search for the ultimate source of malevolence, they traverse ancient temples from India, Cambodia, South America, China, and Japan, among others. In the end, they must face down characters of the Greek and Indian pantheons in a battle that is both Olympic and aquatic. It’s a whirlwind, in many ways, with fun details sprinkled in to ground the meandering path in real-world myth and legend. This is also true of Kennard’s history.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
The story is mainly told from Kennard’s point of view, though there are a couple of choice chapters when we get to reconnect with Alec and Cronin directly. Alec’s powers enable him to carry people in physical contact with him through any portal—because he is a “key.” In the search for the ultimate source of malevolence, they traverse ancient temples from India, Cambodia, South America, China, and Japan, among others. In the end, they must face down characters of the Greek and Indian pantheons in a battle that is both Olympic and aquatic. It’s a whirlwind, in many ways, with fun details sprinkled in to ground the meandering path in real-world myth and legend. This is also true of Kennard’s history.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
January 29, 2019
✮4 Stars✮
January 28, 2019
It's as Dani(ela) wrote in her review: a nice continuation of the series. A nice revisiting of the Scooby-Doo gang (Kennard's words and quite accurate this time) on their kind of paper chase through myth and history. I easily could picture it as a nice online game and that way I don't even have to complain about the antagonist in the boss fight at the last level. This time that fits completely.
Only complain because I might be a bit too sensitive in that regard: guys, if you're a vampire with the need to kill someone because you can't stop before you got even the last drop of his blood, then do that and spare me you're reasoning by only draining some criminals or individuals with hideous intentions. You're a predator, no need to hide behind self-justice.
Only complain because I might be a bit too sensitive in that regard: guys, if you're a vampire with the need to kill someone because you can't stop before you got even the last drop of his blood, then do that and spare me you're reasoning by only draining some criminals or individuals with hideous intentions. You're a predator, no need to hide behind self-justice.
January 28, 2019
*** 4.5/5 Stars ***
I’ve been waiting for Kennard story since forever and when it finally release, can you imagine how excited I am?
This book is so intense, the story is not only about Kennard and Stas and their newly-mate-energizer-bunny-activities (well, I must admit the first few chapter kinda ‘intimidating’ me in fun way of course!), BUT it also came with whole full package of the interesting adventures and journey to solve the new mystery that caught Kennard and his Scooby-Doo Gang friends attention.
I must admit that this book a bit ‘heavy’ for a short story, I mean with all those ancient mythology and history from all around the world mentioned and some of them materialize and 'squeezed' into the story had succeed added the tensions to the story and make it feels a bit heavy.
I love the story, especially when this book gave me a chance to meet Alec, Cronin, Jodis and Eiji again and have fun moment with their fun jokes even in the most dangerous moments they still can make me laugh with their fun banter. I didn’t realize that I miss them so much until I read this book.
Alec still amazed me with his amazing powers as the key, he and Cronin also success stole the spotlight in this book, but that didn’t dimmed Kennard and Stas story, especially when Kennard jaw dropping secret finally revealed!!!!
Trust me, I have that jaw-dropping-oh-really moment when I read that part!
Handara Golf & Resort at Bedugul, Bali (source : @ros_leon Instagram)
Another thing that excited me more is when my favorite author mentioned some famous place from my country (Bali, Indonesia) in the story! And that make me can't stop grinning during the reading!
So, if you’re also a Cronin’s Key series fanatic like me, then you shouldn’t miss Kennard's book!!!
(c) Nova Kurniawan/Travelingyuk
* I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this book without bias or persuasion from the author*
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that history is never what it seems....
I’ve been waiting for Kennard story since forever and when it finally release, can you imagine how excited I am?
This book is so intense, the story is not only about Kennard and Stas and their newly-mate-energizer-bunny-activities (well, I must admit the first few chapter kinda ‘intimidating’ me in fun way of course!), BUT it also came with whole full package of the interesting adventures and journey to solve the new mystery that caught Kennard and his Scooby-Doo Gang friends attention.
I must admit that this book a bit ‘heavy’ for a short story, I mean with all those ancient mythology and history from all around the world mentioned and some of them materialize and 'squeezed' into the story had succeed added the tensions to the story and make it feels a bit heavy.
I love the story, especially when this book gave me a chance to meet Alec, Cronin, Jodis and Eiji again and have fun moment with their fun jokes even in the most dangerous moments they still can make me laugh with their fun banter. I didn’t realize that I miss them so much until I read this book.
Alec still amazed me with his amazing powers as the key, he and Cronin also success stole the spotlight in this book, but that didn’t dimmed Kennard and Stas story, especially when Kennard jaw dropping secret finally revealed!!!!
Trust me, I have that jaw-dropping-oh-really moment when I read that part!
Handara Golf & Resort at Bedugul, Bali (source : @ros_leon Instagram)
Another thing that excited me more is when my favorite author mentioned some famous place from my country (Bali, Indonesia) in the story! And that make me can't stop grinning during the reading!
So, if you’re also a Cronin’s Key series fanatic like me, then you shouldn’t miss Kennard's book!!!
(c) Nova Kurniawan/Travelingyuk
* I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this book without bias or persuasion from the author*
January 30, 2019
I enjoyed the next part in this story and it was great to have the gang back together. I probably wouldn’t have labeled it as Kennards story, even though there was time with him & Stas, this really involved all 6 characters with as much focus on Cronin & Alex. Regardless, it was an interesting look and perspective on many of the myths & legends from the past - a great effort in research happened here !
January 31, 2019
The gangs back together
3.5 stars
This book is through Kennard's POV and takes place after his mating with Stas. They are spending their time in a secluded cabin when Alec and the gang come to them.
Some activity is going on in an ancient tomb and Alec wants to solve the mystery. This leads them on another epic/crazy/dangerous adventure.
3.5 stars
This book is through Kennard's POV and takes place after his mating with Stas. They are spending their time in a secluded cabin when Alec and the gang come to them.
Some activity is going on in an ancient tomb and Alec wants to solve the mystery. This leads them on another epic/crazy/dangerous adventure.
Want to read
January 22, 2019I actually forgot who Kennard and Stas are....
I know shame on me.... -_-'
I know shame on me.... -_-'
July 15, 2023
Nope, not enough Kennard and fails on the history side
Unfortunately, this final book managed to annoy me by not having enough of Kennard and Stas but also for the choices made with his backstory.
Because, as a loyal Ricardian, anything which slavishly follows the Shakespearean version of Richard III and makes him into a villain who killed his nephews, just makes me cross.
It's only a minor part of the story, it also gets mixed up with the wrong King's name as the father of the Princes in the Tower, and it confuses Edward IV's birth in the English-owned territory of Rouen to make him half French, when both of his parents were English.
So, all that aside, the rest of the story is a jumbled amalgamation of different religions including Greek and various South American traditions to explain the appearance of serpentine creatures in all mythologies.
That works okay even if it gets a bit repetitive as we go on a temple by temple tour by way of magic gates!
The rest of the tale actually carries a fair bit of pathos, including female vampires and mythological creatures who've been badly done to and who, you could argue, have a good case for wanting world domination 😁
Still, Alec gets to wield his uber powers once more, the Scooby Gang is on hand to help out and there's the typical pop culture references which haven't dated well at all unfortunately.
Unfortunately, this final book managed to annoy me by not having enough of Kennard and Stas but also for the choices made with his backstory.
Because, as a loyal Ricardian, anything which slavishly follows the Shakespearean version of Richard III and makes him into a villain who killed his nephews, just makes me cross.
It's only a minor part of the story, it also gets mixed up with the wrong King's name as the father of the Princes in the Tower, and it confuses Edward IV's birth in the English-owned territory of Rouen to make him half French, when both of his parents were English.
So, all that aside, the rest of the story is a jumbled amalgamation of different religions including Greek and various South American traditions to explain the appearance of serpentine creatures in all mythologies.
That works okay even if it gets a bit repetitive as we go on a temple by temple tour by way of magic gates!
The rest of the tale actually carries a fair bit of pathos, including female vampires and mythological creatures who've been badly done to and who, you could argue, have a good case for wanting world domination 😁
Still, Alec gets to wield his uber powers once more, the Scooby Gang is on hand to help out and there's the typical pop culture references which haven't dated well at all unfortunately.
March 22, 2019
What a delight! A chance to see Kennard with his newly found lifemate, Stas. Kennard is the youthful-looking, handsome vampire who rules the coven in London. He’s also the vampire who despaired so much about never having found his mate after over 500 years that he was more than willing to help Alec and Cronin in their battle against Genghis Khan in book three. And it was there he first set eyes on the big, gruff 800-year-old Russian, Stas.
The first chapters are full of Kennard’s and Stas’s nonstop sexual adventures. After all, they waited hundreds of years to meet, so they have to make up for lost time. But the author injected enough warmth and humor to make it more romantic than erotic, and my heart was engaged quickly.
In this adventure, Alec and Cronin, Jodis and Eiji, and Kennard with Stas set off to protect humankind from the vampire who is supposedly locked in a tomb in India. The adventure actually leads them all over Asia and to a location deep in the sea where they encounter none other than—oops, I don’t want to say. Spoiler zone. And readers will appreciate the surprise as much as I did, I think.
This author does research—lots and lots of research and the books are full of facts, both well-known and minutia most of us wouldn’t know. But it’s interesting and mixed with enough adventure to keep me on my toes. Constantly. In fact, I hate to stop for real life activities because I want to know—I need to know what is going to happen next. The characters are as memorable as any I’ve read and came to life within the first pages of revisiting them. Kennard and Stas and their relationship was heartwarming and loving and they struck just the perfect balance together. Who knew I’d fall in love with a 500-year-old who, in turn, loved an 800-year-old? Only NR Walker could infuse so much energy and life into this grand adventure, not to mention the surprise twists using historical persons who I previously thought were boring.
I highly recommend this book—in fact, this series—to all lovers of MM romance packed with action, adventure and a dash of world history.
ARC provided by the publisher through Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words in exchange for an impartial review.
The first chapters are full of Kennard’s and Stas’s nonstop sexual adventures. After all, they waited hundreds of years to meet, so they have to make up for lost time. But the author injected enough warmth and humor to make it more romantic than erotic, and my heart was engaged quickly.
In this adventure, Alec and Cronin, Jodis and Eiji, and Kennard with Stas set off to protect humankind from the vampire who is supposedly locked in a tomb in India. The adventure actually leads them all over Asia and to a location deep in the sea where they encounter none other than—oops, I don’t want to say. Spoiler zone. And readers will appreciate the surprise as much as I did, I think.
This author does research—lots and lots of research and the books are full of facts, both well-known and minutia most of us wouldn’t know. But it’s interesting and mixed with enough adventure to keep me on my toes. Constantly. In fact, I hate to stop for real life activities because I want to know—I need to know what is going to happen next. The characters are as memorable as any I’ve read and came to life within the first pages of revisiting them. Kennard and Stas and their relationship was heartwarming and loving and they struck just the perfect balance together. Who knew I’d fall in love with a 500-year-old who, in turn, loved an 800-year-old? Only NR Walker could infuse so much energy and life into this grand adventure, not to mention the surprise twists using historical persons who I previously thought were boring.
I highly recommend this book—in fact, this series—to all lovers of MM romance packed with action, adventure and a dash of world history.
ARC provided by the publisher through Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words in exchange for an impartial review.
February 21, 2019
“Our universe grants every soul a twin-a reflection of themselves -the kindred spirit – And no matter where they are or how far away they are from each other- even if they are in different dimensions, they will always find one another. This is destiny; this is love.” – Julie Dillon
It is said that you can tell who your real friends are when they stick by you, not just through the easy times but the hard times as well. Cronin and Alex know that they can always depend on their close-knit group of friends, anytime for anything.
In spite of the fact that Kennard has had lots of people around him who support, and often fear him, Kennard has been lonely, especially since his best friends Cronin and Alec, and Eiji and Jodis, have bonded. Kennard has resigned himself to being alone, believing that it will never happen for him; that is, until he meets Stas, a mountain of a man who is his exact opposite in in almost every way, but, nonetheless, his soulmate. Now that they have finally accepted their fate, they are happier than they have been and are burning up the sheets several times a day, perhaps trying to make up for lost time. They have retreated to Stas’s remote Russian cabin where they believe that no one can find them, that is, until they receive flowers from Cronin and Alex. They should have known that Alex, with his mental gifts, can find anyone, anywhere, any time.
Kennard calls his friends, thanks them for the flowers, and invites them to come for a visit. He and Stas make themselves presentable and await the arrival of their friends. Alec’s ability to jump through time and space ensures that they are there in a few moments. The group engage in small talk and good-natured teasing for a while. Kennard decides that it’s time for him to go back to London and check up on things. Alex jumps them all there in record time. Stas is completely overwhelmed by the opulence of Kennard’s London apartment and, even more so, by Kennard’s club and office. He finds it remarkable that Kennard would want to stay at his cabin, out in the middle of nowhere, when he has all this, but Kennard assures him that home is wherever Stas is. Back at the apartment, they reminisce about their past adventures. Things have been relatively quiet for the group for a while now. When they begin to discuss a disturbance that has been felt in India, they almost simultaneously decide to go to investigate it.
This book was shorter than others in the series, but not any less adventure-packed. I was so elated when I realized that this was Kennard’s story and that he was finally getting his well-deserved happy ending. Not only that, it was good to see that Kennard, who has always felt kind of left out because he has no superpowers other than those afforded to him by his vampirism, finds that he is unique in a way that the others’ gifts can’t match. I loved all the flashbacks reminding me of facts from the other stories and the camaraderie between them. It was nice, after all they have been through, to have some easy times. Thanks, N.R., for another fascinating story about vampires who, despite their “snacks”, are the good guys.
It is said that you can tell who your real friends are when they stick by you, not just through the easy times but the hard times as well. Cronin and Alex know that they can always depend on their close-knit group of friends, anytime for anything.
In spite of the fact that Kennard has had lots of people around him who support, and often fear him, Kennard has been lonely, especially since his best friends Cronin and Alec, and Eiji and Jodis, have bonded. Kennard has resigned himself to being alone, believing that it will never happen for him; that is, until he meets Stas, a mountain of a man who is his exact opposite in in almost every way, but, nonetheless, his soulmate. Now that they have finally accepted their fate, they are happier than they have been and are burning up the sheets several times a day, perhaps trying to make up for lost time. They have retreated to Stas’s remote Russian cabin where they believe that no one can find them, that is, until they receive flowers from Cronin and Alex. They should have known that Alex, with his mental gifts, can find anyone, anywhere, any time.
Kennard calls his friends, thanks them for the flowers, and invites them to come for a visit. He and Stas make themselves presentable and await the arrival of their friends. Alec’s ability to jump through time and space ensures that they are there in a few moments. The group engage in small talk and good-natured teasing for a while. Kennard decides that it’s time for him to go back to London and check up on things. Alex jumps them all there in record time. Stas is completely overwhelmed by the opulence of Kennard’s London apartment and, even more so, by Kennard’s club and office. He finds it remarkable that Kennard would want to stay at his cabin, out in the middle of nowhere, when he has all this, but Kennard assures him that home is wherever Stas is. Back at the apartment, they reminisce about their past adventures. Things have been relatively quiet for the group for a while now. When they begin to discuss a disturbance that has been felt in India, they almost simultaneously decide to go to investigate it.
This book was shorter than others in the series, but not any less adventure-packed. I was so elated when I realized that this was Kennard’s story and that he was finally getting his well-deserved happy ending. Not only that, it was good to see that Kennard, who has always felt kind of left out because he has no superpowers other than those afforded to him by his vampirism, finds that he is unique in a way that the others’ gifts can’t match. I loved all the flashbacks reminding me of facts from the other stories and the camaraderie between them. It was nice, after all they have been through, to have some easy times. Thanks, N.R., for another fascinating story about vampires who, despite their “snacks”, are the good guys.
February 19, 2020
When this first came out in January 2019, I DNF'ed @ ~35 %. I wanted to save it for when I wanted to reread the Cronin's Key-series and read it in succession so it would all be fresh and more enjoyable. Well, that time was this week.
Kennard's story is very interesting, and it was nice to see a little more of him behind the scenes. I do wish we had been given the same courtesy of his mate, Stas and perhaps even their time together.
The mystery was a little confusing at first until that aha!-moment when it all made sense.
Kennard's story is very interesting, and it was nice to see a little more of him behind the scenes. I do wish we had been given the same courtesy of his mate, Stas and perhaps even their time together.
The mystery was a little confusing at first until that aha!-moment when it all made sense.
Read
February 3, 2019OMGosh!!!!!!!!!
I absolutely love this author! This story is no different. It had me entranced from the time I picked up my kindle until I finished the story. Kennard is so fun and I am tickled pink that he found his mate!! I just hope down the road that we get a glimpse of their future.
I absolutely love this author! This story is no different. It had me entranced from the time I picked up my kindle until I finished the story. Kennard is so fun and I am tickled pink that he found his mate!! I just hope down the road that we get a glimpse of their future.
January 26, 2019
Yet another incredible book by NR Walker. The fourth book in the Cronin’s Key series. This is Kennard’s story, the story of him and his mate Stas. Don’t worry all the usual Scooby Gang are all there fighting to save the world.
I think NR Walker has a bit of a fascination with snakes in this one!
Well written. The depth of characters is incredible, as usual.
I received this ARC for a truthful and unbiased review.
I think NR Walker has a bit of a fascination with snakes in this one!
Well written. The depth of characters is incredible, as usual.
I received this ARC for a truthful and unbiased review.
January 29, 2019
Wow. Just wow.
Yet another incredible book by NR Walker. The fourth book in the Cronin’s Key series. This is Kennard’s story, the story of him and his mate Stas. Don’t worry all the usual Scooby Gang are all there fighting to save the world.
I think NR Walker has a bit of a fascination with snakes in this one!
Well written. The depth of characters is incredible, as usual.
Yet another incredible book by NR Walker. The fourth book in the Cronin’s Key series. This is Kennard’s story, the story of him and his mate Stas. Don’t worry all the usual Scooby Gang are all there fighting to save the world.
I think NR Walker has a bit of a fascination with snakes in this one!
Well written. The depth of characters is incredible, as usual.
December 8, 2019
I liked this okay, but I didn't love it the way I did the previous installments in this series.
February 17, 2019
3.5 Stars
This book has two names. One is Cronin's Key IV: Kennard's Story and the other is simply Kennard's Story. The latter is very misleading because this is, first and foremost, the fourth installment in the Cronin's Key series. Yes, it's from Kennard's perspective and parts of it are dedicated to him and Stas (mainly the beginning) but it's not really just his story.
For one thing, Alec shows up pretty early on with another Key-related quest. We get another ancient being trying to take over the world, another mystery, and even more interpretations of history. And I liked it. I love Alec and Cronin and Eiji and Jodis, and it was great to see them again. That's the part of the book I didn't mind. I also liked the parts of history the book targeted (though we kinda rushed through them). I just didn't see a purpose. It was just another quest. It was fun but, more like an epilogue than a chapter.
Also, I really wish we could've focused more on Kennard and Stas. I mean, they'd just met in the last book and here, they were fully in love and stuff. It sucks that we missed all the good stuff, the relationship building stuff.
Overall, this was a good addition to the series. Not only did we get to spend more time with Alec and friends, we also got to know Kennard better. It was also more coherent and laid back than the third book, which is my least favourite of the series so far, and I definitely recommend it for people who also like the characters and want one last adventure with them.
This book has two names. One is Cronin's Key IV: Kennard's Story and the other is simply Kennard's Story. The latter is very misleading because this is, first and foremost, the fourth installment in the Cronin's Key series. Yes, it's from Kennard's perspective and parts of it are dedicated to him and Stas (mainly the beginning) but it's not really just his story.
For one thing, Alec shows up pretty early on with another Key-related quest. We get another ancient being trying to take over the world, another mystery, and even more interpretations of history. And I liked it. I love Alec and Cronin and Eiji and Jodis, and it was great to see them again. That's the part of the book I didn't mind. I also liked the parts of history the book targeted (though we kinda rushed through them). I just didn't see a purpose. It was just another quest. It was fun but, more like an epilogue than a chapter.
Also, I really wish we could've focused more on Kennard and Stas. I mean, they'd just met in the last book and here, they were fully in love and stuff. It sucks that we missed all the good stuff, the relationship building stuff.
Overall, this was a good addition to the series. Not only did we get to spend more time with Alec and friends, we also got to know Kennard better. It was also more coherent and laid back than the third book, which is my least favourite of the series so far, and I definitely recommend it for people who also like the characters and want one last adventure with them.
April 18, 2021
2.5 stars - This was definitely my least favorite in the Cronin’s Key series. The whole “adventure” thing was so OTT and strange. Stas sometimes spoke broken English and sometimes his speech was fluid and perfect. Very inconsistent.
The best part of the whole book was the part where Alec FINALLY taught Cronin, Eiji, and Jodis how to drive. Sadly, that was at the beginning of the book and it was downhill from there.
On a side note, I am with Eiji on all the pop culture references - completely lost. Unlike Eiji, I find no humor in it when I don’t understand what is being referred to. One book does not need so many Harry Potter references. (Which I had to look up because I didn’t understand!) It makes me wonder if someone were to pick up this book years from now, how many of those references would make any sense to those readers? I hate pop culture references in books. Many of them don’t stand the test of time.
The best part of the whole book was the part where Alec FINALLY taught Cronin, Eiji, and Jodis how to drive. Sadly, that was at the beginning of the book and it was downhill from there.
On a side note, I am with Eiji on all the pop culture references - completely lost. Unlike Eiji, I find no humor in it when I don’t understand what is being referred to. One book does not need so many Harry Potter references. (Which I had to look up because I didn’t understand!) It makes me wonder if someone were to pick up this book years from now, how many of those references would make any sense to those readers? I hate pop culture references in books. Many of them don’t stand the test of time.
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