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Age of the Andinna #2
The Mercenary's Bounty
With freedom, comes uncertainty, and with uncertainty, comes mistakes.
Mave has been making a lot of those. As she draws closer to the Free Cities of Olost, she finds herself juggling between learning about her people, and learning the nuances of the males around her. Males she has to work with if she wants to survive the world she’s about to jump into feet first as the newest member of the Ivory Shadow Mercenary Company. She has no choice but to learn to trust them.
Through all of it, Mave has found herself hopeful for Olost and the new beginnings she’s found. The opportunities of new friendships, new family, and maybe more draws her further out of her shell every moment. With all of her courage, she continues to take those shaky first steps, leaving the life of slavery and being an outcast far behind her.
But freedom doesn’t hold all the promises she hoped it did. Olost might be free, but that doesn’t mean it’s safe.
Her enemies will never rest and neither can she.
The Mercenary’s Bounty is a 144,000+ words, full-length novel.
Age of the Andinna is a reverse harem epic fantasy series. The female lead will collect her lovers as the series progresses.
There is triggering content in this series including but not limited to: abuse, violence, mature language, and sexual content. It’s recommended for mature audiences.
Mave has been making a lot of those. As she draws closer to the Free Cities of Olost, she finds herself juggling between learning about her people, and learning the nuances of the males around her. Males she has to work with if she wants to survive the world she’s about to jump into feet first as the newest member of the Ivory Shadow Mercenary Company. She has no choice but to learn to trust them.
Through all of it, Mave has found herself hopeful for Olost and the new beginnings she’s found. The opportunities of new friendships, new family, and maybe more draws her further out of her shell every moment. With all of her courage, she continues to take those shaky first steps, leaving the life of slavery and being an outcast far behind her.
But freedom doesn’t hold all the promises she hoped it did. Olost might be free, but that doesn’t mean it’s safe.
Her enemies will never rest and neither can she.
The Mercenary’s Bounty is a 144,000+ words, full-length novel.
Age of the Andinna is a reverse harem epic fantasy series. The female lead will collect her lovers as the series progresses.
There is triggering content in this series including but not limited to: abuse, violence, mature language, and sexual content. It’s recommended for mature audiences.
482 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 15, 2019
511 people are currently reading
618 people want to read
About the author
Kristen Banet
27 books1,392 followersKristen Banet has a Diet Coke problem and smokes too much. She curses like a sailor (though, she used to be one, so she uses that as an excuse) and finds that many people don’t know how to handle that. She loves to read, and before finally sitting to try her hand at writing, she had your normal kind of work history. From tattoo parlors, to the U.S. Navy, and freelance illustration, she’s stumbled through her adult years and somehow, is still kicking.
She loves to read books that make people cry. She likes to write books that make people cry (and she wants to hear about it). She’s a firm believer that nothing and no one in this world is perfect, and she enjoys exploring those imperfections—trying to make the characters seem real on the page and not just in her head.
She might just be crazy, though. Her characters think so, but this can’t be confirmed.
Check out her social media to catch what's going on in the worlds inside her head. She drops teasers, new covers, and opens ARC reader slots through her Facebook group, The Banet Pride.
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/kristenbanet...
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/TheBa...
She loves to read books that make people cry. She likes to write books that make people cry (and she wants to hear about it). She’s a firm believer that nothing and no one in this world is perfect, and she enjoys exploring those imperfections—trying to make the characters seem real on the page and not just in her head.
She might just be crazy, though. Her characters think so, but this can’t be confirmed.
Check out her social media to catch what's going on in the worlds inside her head. She drops teasers, new covers, and opens ARC reader slots through her Facebook group, The Banet Pride.
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/kristenbanet...
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/TheBa...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 252 reviews
dnf
July 28, 2023DNF 51% - still too slow and I keep losing interest. Plus the Andinna courtship rituals are so convoluted and feel like rapey patriarchal values masquerading as matriarchy.
April 25, 2019
BRYNNNNNNN
YER MAH HEART.
Can’t say I didn’t see that coming.
We had a few shifts in this book that kinda surprised me.
low key is anyone else hoping Rain + Alchan is gonna be a thing or is that just me?
I loved this book except for one teenie problem:
is there a definite plot?
I ain’t blind but I don’t see one.
Also:
TREVAN: PULL THROUGH MAN. C’mon.
Besides that not much to say, can’t wait to see WHO IS NEXT to join the fam.
Obvi, it’s Lucas with a Y.
That’s all folks. Can’t wait for the third book.
YER MAH HEART.
Can’t say I didn’t see that coming.
We had a few shifts in this book that kinda surprised me.
low key is anyone else hoping Rain + Alchan is gonna be a thing or is that just me?
I loved this book except for one teenie problem:
is there a definite plot?
I ain’t blind but I don’t see one.
Also:
TREVAN: PULL THROUGH MAN. C’mon.
Besides that not much to say, can’t wait to see WHO IS NEXT to join the fam.
Obvi, it’s Lucas with a Y.
That’s all folks. Can’t wait for the third book.
November 16, 2023
amo que el 50% del libro fue ellos siendo familia y hablando boludeces RE CONTRA RE MIL BANCO YO ACA VINE POR EL FOUND FAMILY (y el reverse harem)
lo que si voy a quejarme es que la autora usa excesivamente el recurso de "ups... me olvide de decirte [inserte cosa básica que le tendrían que haber dicho sobre sus costumbres/sociedad porque la mina creció sin saber nada de su costumbres/sociedad]" como que te seca un poco las pelotas pero bueno fue entretenido
ese último capítulo.... más vale que no haga nada pelotudo este chabon porque si no EL BARDO que se le va a armar....
lo que si voy a quejarme es que la autora usa excesivamente el recurso de "ups... me olvide de decirte [inserte cosa básica que le tendrían que haber dicho sobre sus costumbres/sociedad porque la mina creció sin saber nada de su costumbres/sociedad]" como que te seca un poco las pelotas pero bueno fue entretenido
ese último capítulo.... más vale que no haga nada pelotudo este chabon porque si no EL BARDO que se le va a armar....
April 17, 2019
Spoilers!!!
Lions, tigers, and character development oh my!
Oooh man. I love how much more in depth this book goes with character development. I feel as though I have a slightly better understanding of everyone's issues and the dynamics within the group.
Some musings
As far as future harem members, I honestly have no idea. I'm just excited and want to know more about them all, and I'm already attached to every single one. I feel whenever I read RH the second a cute guy enters the story I mentally fling the MC at them regardless of whether or not it actually makes sense lol. So I think I'll just list my suspicions and wants.
Luykas: I'd think this will be the next focus in the next book. I feel for the guy. Stuck between a rock and a hard place for making a split second decision. I hope stuff smooths out more.
Alchan: ok I have a soft spot for grumps. This guy is the King of Grumps. Literally. Upon reading about how much he struggles with romantic anything's because of how he's genetically hardwired (he's look for a sub female, a rare thing) I still find myself loving the dynamic he has going with mave, the queen of grumps. Their dominance battles have evolved to be something a little more playful. Since he seemed worried about mave treating him differently upon her knowing his real name and station, He seems to like the way she doesn't put up with his shit, but I don't think he'd ever admit it. This is the selfish hope in me, but I hope those two grump out more together and at least become friends. And maybe, just maybe, despite who he is and his aversion to dominant females and sharing, maybe become something a little more. Maybe. It's a tall, delusional order, but I'm not so sure it wouldn't be something sweet.
Trevan: This poor poor man. I am rooting hard for you buddy! I believe in you! I really hope he gets the chance to know the free mave in the ways I'm sure he wanted to before getting caught. He is very much a Sydney Carton from Tale of Two Cities type character, and deserves to get out and get the girl for once.
Varon and Nevyn: I can't think of any better "Bad Influence Gay Dads/Uncles." I love them. The best! More please!
Zayden: my heart goes out to this grumpy single dad. I understand his character probably the best. Loving something so strong yet fragile as his son is not easy, especially knowing that one day you're going to outlive him. I'm glad he was able to be affectionate with his kid finally at the end. You never grow out of dad's love. Even if he's an overbearing helicopter dad. I wasn't fortunate enough to have a good dad, but if I could choose, I'd want Zayden to be my dad.
Rainev: I hope in the next one he's able to reach out to the people he needs to begin to heal. PTSD is no joke. As much as he needs his family and friends, they need him too. It's not truly a sunny day without a little Rain :)
Looking forward to the next one!
Lions, tigers, and character development oh my!
Oooh man. I love how much more in depth this book goes with character development. I feel as though I have a slightly better understanding of everyone's issues and the dynamics within the group.
Some musings
As far as future harem members, I honestly have no idea. I'm just excited and want to know more about them all, and I'm already attached to every single one. I feel whenever I read RH the second a cute guy enters the story I mentally fling the MC at them regardless of whether or not it actually makes sense lol. So I think I'll just list my suspicions and wants.
Luykas: I'd think this will be the next focus in the next book. I feel for the guy. Stuck between a rock and a hard place for making a split second decision. I hope stuff smooths out more.
Alchan: ok I have a soft spot for grumps. This guy is the King of Grumps. Literally. Upon reading about how much he struggles with romantic anything's because of how he's genetically hardwired (he's look for a sub female, a rare thing) I still find myself loving the dynamic he has going with mave, the queen of grumps. Their dominance battles have evolved to be something a little more playful. Since he seemed worried about mave treating him differently upon her knowing his real name and station, He seems to like the way she doesn't put up with his shit, but I don't think he'd ever admit it. This is the selfish hope in me, but I hope those two grump out more together and at least become friends. And maybe, just maybe, despite who he is and his aversion to dominant females and sharing, maybe become something a little more. Maybe. It's a tall, delusional order, but I'm not so sure it wouldn't be something sweet.
Trevan: This poor poor man. I am rooting hard for you buddy! I believe in you! I really hope he gets the chance to know the free mave in the ways I'm sure he wanted to before getting caught. He is very much a Sydney Carton from Tale of Two Cities type character, and deserves to get out and get the girl for once.
Varon and Nevyn: I can't think of any better "Bad Influence Gay Dads/Uncles." I love them. The best! More please!
Zayden: my heart goes out to this grumpy single dad. I understand his character probably the best. Loving something so strong yet fragile as his son is not easy, especially knowing that one day you're going to outlive him. I'm glad he was able to be affectionate with his kid finally at the end. You never grow out of dad's love. Even if he's an overbearing helicopter dad. I wasn't fortunate enough to have a good dad, but if I could choose, I'd want Zayden to be my dad.
Rainev: I hope in the next one he's able to reach out to the people he needs to begin to heal. PTSD is no joke. As much as he needs his family and friends, they need him too. It's not truly a sunny day without a little Rain :)
Looking forward to the next one!
April 14, 2019
I can't express enough how much I love this series. Mercenary's Bounty didn't disappoint. It came out just as strong as book one did.
The world Kristen continues building in each book is engaging and almost tangible. You can't help but feel something for each character you meet. You experience their highs and the lows as they do.
Now I'm back to craving more, like an itch under my skin I just can't seem to satisfy completely, until the next book releases.
The world Kristen continues building in each book is engaging and almost tangible. You can't help but feel something for each character you meet. You experience their highs and the lows as they do.
Now I'm back to craving more, like an itch under my skin I just can't seem to satisfy completely, until the next book releases.
May 23, 2019
I'm not even surprised this happened, to go from loving the first book to feeling meh about the second one seems to be a pattern I can't shake off. I was prepared for a long book, what I wasn't prepared for was a long filler content book.
This book was so slow. So much of space dedicated to explaining language, inner repeated monologues or very mundane scenes that served no purpose than to talk about those monologues over and over again. It felt like there was so much of unnecessary stuff that could probably condense the book to a way shorter length if it was removed.
All those 13 chapters spent on that boat with an overload of language learning and turmoil laced POVs talking about their feelings with no action felt bland. Then to reach the city and have that dragged out journey till the village. It's just bloated with so much of inactive normal scenes that takes the fun out of the plot. The whole tension between Elvasi and Andinna that was very prevalent in the first book was very much diluted to periodic fights in this one. That sense of reading something very engaging is lost with barely there actions scenes.
The romance was very much present but the monologues were a bit excessive. The constant confusion and self doubting was too much in Brynec's POV. I was bored reading the same thoughts over and over again. I'm not sure how I feel about the guessing game when it comes to her harem members but I'm not annoyed yet.
I still want to see how things are going to work out for the Andinnas, I just hope to see more content rich story in the next book. Details and descriptions are great but in the end it's the content that matters.
This book was so slow. So much of space dedicated to explaining language, inner repeated monologues or very mundane scenes that served no purpose than to talk about those monologues over and over again. It felt like there was so much of unnecessary stuff that could probably condense the book to a way shorter length if it was removed.
All those 13 chapters spent on that boat with an overload of language learning and turmoil laced POVs talking about their feelings with no action felt bland. Then to reach the city and have that dragged out journey till the village. It's just bloated with so much of inactive normal scenes that takes the fun out of the plot. The whole tension between Elvasi and Andinna that was very prevalent in the first book was very much diluted to periodic fights in this one. That sense of reading something very engaging is lost with barely there actions scenes.
The romance was very much present but the monologues were a bit excessive. The constant confusion and self doubting was too much in Brynec's POV. I was bored reading the same thoughts over and over again. I'm not sure how I feel about the guessing game when it comes to her harem members but I'm not annoyed yet.
I still want to see how things are going to work out for the Andinnas, I just hope to see more content rich story in the next book. Details and descriptions are great but in the end it's the content that matters.
April 16, 2019
This was an excellent sequel to book one! There was loads of character development, and someone was added to Mave's maraya. We get to know several characters better, and there's a fun strike against the empire. I feel awful for Rain, with his whole situation. I am able to empathize with Rain's dad more as we get to know him better. I have to admit, in this book, I became a much bigger fan of Alchan and his gruffness. He's one of my favorites now. It's interesting (and kind of cool) that he's . Lots of responsibility. I never suspected it. Luykas won me over some, too. I want learn more about what he and Mave could do together with that blood bond of theirs. Also, I appreciate that Overall, I thought The Mercenary's Bounty was excellent: long (almost 500 pages!), full of character development, which is nice for a second book, easy to read, and funny to boot! I loved it. Also, I recognize the scene the cover is from, which is very fun. 5 stars!
March 10, 2020
Awesome fantasy.
Let’s be honest I’m here for the harem. I love the slow burns like this. This book is somewhat detailed, and somewhat confusing sometimes. I sometimes don’t get the references or the nuances and no one mentions things, only things Mave missed. This picks up with them you know I forgot where this starts exactly since I started right after I finished book one. But I’m so stuck in this universe and am bummed I can’t just binge my way through it bc it’s amazing. The next book is only out in 2 days though, but then that means I’ll be waiting a while for book 4. But I don’t feel like I can leave this universe yet. It’s detailed and intricate. There are many povs but surprisingly in this I’m not annoyed. The author changes povs in a consistent manner and doesn’t always leave us hanging before going to another POV. Which I appreciate. Overall I’ll be recommending this series. Has Rise of the Iliri feel for me, but slightly different and really it’s own thing.
Let’s be honest I’m here for the harem. I love the slow burns like this. This book is somewhat detailed, and somewhat confusing sometimes. I sometimes don’t get the references or the nuances and no one mentions things, only things Mave missed. This picks up with them you know I forgot where this starts exactly since I started right after I finished book one. But I’m so stuck in this universe and am bummed I can’t just binge my way through it bc it’s amazing. The next book is only out in 2 days though, but then that means I’ll be waiting a while for book 4. But I don’t feel like I can leave this universe yet. It’s detailed and intricate. There are many povs but surprisingly in this I’m not annoyed. The author changes povs in a consistent manner and doesn’t always leave us hanging before going to another POV. Which I appreciate. Overall I’ll be recommending this series. Has Rise of the Iliri feel for me, but slightly different and really it’s own thing.
May 3, 2019
so i'm minding my own business when gaby*me myshelf and I* springs an excited Arnold Schwarzenegger meme on my head! * rubs head, ouch* looks around and realised that its time for BR with the cake hoarders at RHR mansion....kristen banetThe mercenary's bountry (age of the Andinna, #2).
at first i was all
till about 30%-40% i was getting frustrated at all the " i'm not the MC type and i'm into the opposite sex and i'm not looking at the MC that way at all... its not going to happen.... my frustration grew! hello, build your harem, i get delicious scrumptious character development takes precedence but.... come on!!!
buuuut as the slow moving sequel to one of the best written RH books to come out in ALOOOONG time, i was willing to put up with alot of slow moving action... the MC adds to her harem and there is a little joyful moment of RH smexy times.
ultimately this book was devoured quite quickly, i was blown away by the language development which is something you just don't see with other RH books. Lots of things are hinted at without being thrown out there more obviously... i wait with baited breath for the next instalment.
at first i was all
till about 30%-40% i was getting frustrated at all the " i'm not the MC type and i'm into the opposite sex and i'm not looking at the MC that way at all... its not going to happen.... my frustration grew! hello, build your harem, i get delicious scrumptious character development takes precedence but.... come on!!!
buuuut as the slow moving sequel to one of the best written RH books to come out in ALOOOONG time, i was willing to put up with alot of slow moving action... the MC adds to her harem and there is a little joyful moment of RH smexy times.
ultimately this book was devoured quite quickly, i was blown away by the language development which is something you just don't see with other RH books. Lots of things are hinted at without being thrown out there more obviously... i wait with baited breath for the next instalment.
March 30, 2025
Ese final me acaba de dejar un poco pretérito pluscuamperfecto 🤨
Btw, AMO A BRYNEC 😩🫂💞
Btw, AMO A BRYNEC 😩🫂💞
March 11, 2020
Hard work
Mave continues to work hard at understanding her culture and her friends. I love that she starts getting closer to Mat and Bryn. I really feel for Rain and Luykas. Both are tormented but neither are to the point that Trevan is at. Everyone's journey is full of adventure and emotional roller coasters. It's such an exciting story.
Mave continues to work hard at understanding her culture and her friends. I love that she starts getting closer to Mat and Bryn. I really feel for Rain and Luykas. Both are tormented but neither are to the point that Trevan is at. Everyone's journey is full of adventure and emotional roller coasters. It's such an exciting story.
April 18, 2019
I loved this book! I love that Mave is learning about her people and she's learning how to be dominate but also nice. I feel like she grew soooo much in this book. And we got Bryn! LOVE him! Mat was just as fantastic as he was in the first book. The reason I took off a star was because it was just a little bit boring in the beginning while they were on the ship.. once they got off the ship, the book was perfect.
I can not wait to get my hands on the next one
I can not wait to get my hands on the next one
April 21, 2019
One of my favorite reads!
This book was amazing. This series is one of the best series I have ever read. It’s unique, thrilling, and the world building that Kristen Banet creates is flawless. I can’t wait to see who joins the harem, who will resist until the last second, and Traven! I can’t wait until we see that scene unfold. I look forward to the next installment.
Overall: 5/5
This book was amazing. This series is one of the best series I have ever read. It’s unique, thrilling, and the world building that Kristen Banet creates is flawless. I can’t wait to see who joins the harem, who will resist until the last second, and Traven! I can’t wait until we see that scene unfold. I look forward to the next installment.
Overall: 5/5
September 19, 2019
She asked him to be her husband like a boss
I’m convinced Mave is a Taurus. It’s good to see her coming out of her shell and being dominant to those around her even if it is awkward for her at times. I’m just waiting to see her throw the uppity female, the ex, in the dirt. I’m expecting problems from her.
I’m convinced Mave is a Taurus. It’s good to see her coming out of her shell and being dominant to those around her even if it is awkward for her at times. I’m just waiting to see her throw the uppity female, the ex, in the dirt. I’m expecting problems from her.
May 1, 2019
I'm truly amazed at the world building and the story progression of this one. Usually RH books aren't this detailed and I'm blown away. I honestly can't wait to see where this one will go.
January 23, 2021
pls don't make him turn evil ;_;
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 18, 2023
Amazing ! I’m in awe with this world and those characters
Re-read 15/06/23
Re-read 15/06/23
May 4, 2020
It has been 10 months since I read the first book in the Age of Andinna series, so it took a few chapters for me to remember all the different characters and what was happening, but I quickly remembered how much I liked Mave - she is such a dominant character and a wicked fighter, having been forced for centuries to be a gladiator that has to participate in fight to the death.
The Mercenary's Bounty sees Mave adapting to her new life and new companions within the Ivory Shadow Mercenary Company. Initially Mave feels very unsure of her place within the group and struggles with feeling like an outsider, but she slowly starts to feel more comfortable with the majority of the males. Even being unsure, she is still highly dominant........." There she goes with the I'm going to eat people face again ". Yep - Mave has a really good glare for those that annoy her.
Mave is building different relationships throughout this book - new friends within the company, Rain who fills the role of a brother for her, and also starting to build her own 'mayara' (reverse harem). What I enjoy about this author's books (that I have read so far) is that the reverse harem aspect happens slowly across the books in the series, in this instance it is a real slow burn build up with the new male that catches Mave's attention. Once again there are multi POV's and numerous fight scenes.
The Mercenary's Bounty sees Mave adapting to her new life and new companions within the Ivory Shadow Mercenary Company. Initially Mave feels very unsure of her place within the group and struggles with feeling like an outsider, but she slowly starts to feel more comfortable with the majority of the males. Even being unsure, she is still highly dominant........." There she goes with the I'm going to eat people face again ". Yep - Mave has a really good glare for those that annoy her.
Mave is building different relationships throughout this book - new friends within the company, Rain who fills the role of a brother for her, and also starting to build her own 'mayara' (reverse harem). What I enjoy about this author's books (that I have read so far) is that the reverse harem aspect happens slowly across the books in the series, in this instance it is a real slow burn build up with the new male that catches Mave's attention. Once again there are multi POV's and numerous fight scenes.
December 13, 2023
After a long journey on a ship Mave is finally on her way across the kingdom and every step brings her closer to freedom. Slowly but surely Mave is finding her place int he world and it's fortunate she now has so many Andinna she can at the very least learn from if not befriend. I will say there are so many more characters introduced throughout the first book that it's still positive I'm not 100% on board by the end. I almost wanted to create a family tree but the differing POV's helped separate the characters a lot better in my mind. Not only is Mave slowly building her harem (she has two confirmed by the end) she is also slowly learning to adapt to life outside the arena. The Empress however is relentless in her pursuit to get Mave back and continues to send fighters and hunters out looking for her. I have a feeling Mave won't get to enjoy her freedom as long as she likes but I do know for sure she won't take shit anymore, from ANYONE!!
April 17, 2019
What an amazing follow up to book one, with this engaging fantasy series that will leave you needing more. Ms. Banet does an excellent job of writing plots, characters and worlds that just drag us in and do not let go.
Mave is adjusting to freedom and trying to figure everything out. She is doing better about her feelings and I liked watching her grow trying to figure things out. I enjoyed seeing her relationships grow. There is lots of action, but what really stuck out to me was her relationships and working on those as well. I really feel like I learned more about the world and how things worked as well. So overall a great second installment to this exciting fantasy read.
Mave is adjusting to freedom and trying to figure everything out. She is doing better about her feelings and I liked watching her grow trying to figure things out. I enjoyed seeing her relationships grow. There is lots of action, but what really stuck out to me was her relationships and working on those as well. I really feel like I learned more about the world and how things worked as well. So overall a great second installment to this exciting fantasy read.
December 14, 2023
aaaAAAAHhhH me encanta que literal casi todo el libro sean ellos conociéndose he intentando ser una familia por la cresta basta
aparte el chisme que se cargan entre todos ellos?????? los amo wn, me encantan sus interacciones
ame también que Bryn ahora este con Mave, tbh, Mat es regio pero me faltaba algo y Bryn 🛐🛐🛐
y bueno, Luykas ya tendrá su momento yo lo se le va a costar nomás 🕴🏼🫡🫡
aparte el chisme que se cargan entre todos ellos?????? los amo wn, me encantan sus interacciones
ame también que Bryn ahora este con Mave, tbh, Mat es regio pero me faltaba algo y Bryn 🛐🛐🛐
y bueno, Luykas ya tendrá su momento yo lo se le va a costar nomás 🕴🏼🫡🫡
December 1, 2024
4 ⭐️
This dragged for me just the teeeeeeniest bit at some parts but still highly enjoyed it!!!
This dragged for me just the teeeeeeniest bit at some parts but still highly enjoyed it!!!
December 4, 2024
1.5
unnecessarily wordy without saying anything
unnecessarily wordy without saying anything
April 16, 2019
I thoroughly enjoyed the second book in Banet's epic Andinna adventure. There's romantic development, character development, relationship (of the nonromantic kind) growth, and we're seeing the stakes rise higher and higher as Mave tries to create a free life with the Shadow Company.
Plus, I love me some big books, especially one that keep a strong sense of story-telling, where you don't exchange page count for a loss of quality. Each moment drew me further into Mave's saga, and I loved all the moments that we got glimpses into the eyes and minds of the other men in the company and some other key players who are sure to matter farther down the line.
Like Hadley's Rise of the Iliri, we're faced with this uber dominant female who's really meant to lead, to fight, to inspire, and she struggles with learning how to truly be a part of a people that she wasn't raised with, to grasp a culture that she was denied by the people who thought her to be lesser. While Mave has a lot of traits that resonate with Sal, and the Andinna books give me the strong ROTI re-read urge, I think it stands on its own, and it's more of a high compliment to connect the two series together. For me, that's a big bonus.
The matriarchal nature of their society, and the way relationships are built, is something that's definitely explored more in TMB, and we're definitely in for a bit of a long ride as Mave builds her mayara. We do get a new addition by the end of TMB, and some hopeful signs about who might grow closer to her as we continue into the next book.
I like that Banet is taking her time- even though I'm a little impatient because I love the romance of it all- it makes so much sense for the story she's building and the characters who are running the show. Anything else would be disingenuous, and while I might be momentarily appeased, I'd probably look back at it later and be angry that it was rushed. For me, the way the mayara is forming is perfect.
The story's action is flowing at a sedate pace as well since we're in for a marathon, not a sprint. TMB is character-driven, so we're seeing a lot of small moments that really focus on developing their stories and connections with each other, growing our knowledge of the Andinna culture, rather than rushing from one action-packed scene to the next.
If you're looking for nonstop action, a book that's stocked with bloody battles of epic proportions...well, this is not it. But if you want something that has a wealth of detail, characters that drag you in with no regrets, and a world that's unfolding slowly but steadily before your eyes, by all means, click that button now and dig into this wonderful addition to a series that I've quickly grown to love.
Plus, I love me some big books, especially one that keep a strong sense of story-telling, where you don't exchange page count for a loss of quality. Each moment drew me further into Mave's saga, and I loved all the moments that we got glimpses into the eyes and minds of the other men in the company and some other key players who are sure to matter farther down the line.
Like Hadley's Rise of the Iliri, we're faced with this uber dominant female who's really meant to lead, to fight, to inspire, and she struggles with learning how to truly be a part of a people that she wasn't raised with, to grasp a culture that she was denied by the people who thought her to be lesser. While Mave has a lot of traits that resonate with Sal, and the Andinna books give me the strong ROTI re-read urge, I think it stands on its own, and it's more of a high compliment to connect the two series together. For me, that's a big bonus.
The matriarchal nature of their society, and the way relationships are built, is something that's definitely explored more in TMB, and we're definitely in for a bit of a long ride as Mave builds her mayara. We do get a new addition by the end of TMB, and some hopeful signs about who might grow closer to her as we continue into the next book.
I like that Banet is taking her time- even though I'm a little impatient because I love the romance of it all- it makes so much sense for the story she's building and the characters who are running the show. Anything else would be disingenuous, and while I might be momentarily appeased, I'd probably look back at it later and be angry that it was rushed. For me, the way the mayara is forming is perfect.
The story's action is flowing at a sedate pace as well since we're in for a marathon, not a sprint. TMB is character-driven, so we're seeing a lot of small moments that really focus on developing their stories and connections with each other, growing our knowledge of the Andinna culture, rather than rushing from one action-packed scene to the next.
If you're looking for nonstop action, a book that's stocked with bloody battles of epic proportions...well, this is not it. But if you want something that has a wealth of detail, characters that drag you in with no regrets, and a world that's unfolding slowly but steadily before your eyes, by all means, click that button now and dig into this wonderful addition to a series that I've quickly grown to love.
February 5, 2021
Loved this one!
This book is NOT plot heavy; it’s very much a book focused on character development and relationships. There is a basic plot, but it’s more background as we dive into learning more about all the members of the Company (whom I all love. Seriously, they’re just a big family), the Andinna, and Mave as she gains confidence and comes into her own. As someone who loves characters and character-driven stories, I am not bothered by slower plot if everything makes sense. And there is definitely things happening; I can see the gears being turned at the macro-level as we start to set up the larger war that is being reawakened between the Elvari and the Andinna.
This book also continues to tackle the theme of sexual assault, especially for males, and I appreciated how it was handled. It’s a long, hard healing process, and we see different characters at different points of their unique journeys. Rape is not treated gratuitously or for shock value in this series, which I’m thankful for. I look forward to how book 3 continues to develop this storyline.
Also, Nevyn and Varon are gossipy, matchmaking kings, and I love them. They have seriously some of the best moments in the book.
Matesh is also amazing, and I’m so glad he’s there for Mave as she kind of blindly stumbles along. He has flaws and messes up, but it’s refreshing to see a male lead who has the maturity to recognize those moments, apologize, and do better.
Actually, in general, I appreciate how there is a lot of mature, open conversations between characters in this culture. There are so many networks of support, whether it’s male-male, male-female, or female-female. You can see how the community comes alive in the different relationships in the book. It feels really organic, and those support networks do so much to help all these characters start to heal from the horrible things that have happened to them.
One other thing: I also love how none of the characters are overpowered, which tends to be a thing in warrior bands I’ve seen in other series. Like we have some magic, but nothing crazy that feels overdone or invincible. The stakes feel real.
This might be becoming one of my fav series. 5 more to go! :)
P.S. I’M ROOTING FOR YOU, TREVAN! PLEASE DON’T DIE!
Note: while this is a reverse harem, this is a lot of slow burns (which I’m a sucker for). Sex scenes aren’t gratuitously done every other chapter like some books I’ve come across lately. In fact, I think they’re done well in terms of when they’re detailed vs not, and are placed well in terms of story (and include actual relationship/character development *gasp*). The sex scenes are pretty secondary/minor compared to the story development overall, which is typically the balance I like to see in my fantasy books.
This book is NOT plot heavy; it’s very much a book focused on character development and relationships. There is a basic plot, but it’s more background as we dive into learning more about all the members of the Company (whom I all love. Seriously, they’re just a big family), the Andinna, and Mave as she gains confidence and comes into her own. As someone who loves characters and character-driven stories, I am not bothered by slower plot if everything makes sense. And there is definitely things happening; I can see the gears being turned at the macro-level as we start to set up the larger war that is being reawakened between the Elvari and the Andinna.
This book also continues to tackle the theme of sexual assault, especially for males, and I appreciated how it was handled. It’s a long, hard healing process, and we see different characters at different points of their unique journeys. Rape is not treated gratuitously or for shock value in this series, which I’m thankful for. I look forward to how book 3 continues to develop this storyline.
Also, Nevyn and Varon are gossipy, matchmaking kings, and I love them. They have seriously some of the best moments in the book.
Matesh is also amazing, and I’m so glad he’s there for Mave as she kind of blindly stumbles along. He has flaws and messes up, but it’s refreshing to see a male lead who has the maturity to recognize those moments, apologize, and do better.
Actually, in general, I appreciate how there is a lot of mature, open conversations between characters in this culture. There are so many networks of support, whether it’s male-male, male-female, or female-female. You can see how the community comes alive in the different relationships in the book. It feels really organic, and those support networks do so much to help all these characters start to heal from the horrible things that have happened to them.
One other thing: I also love how none of the characters are overpowered, which tends to be a thing in warrior bands I’ve seen in other series. Like we have some magic, but nothing crazy that feels overdone or invincible. The stakes feel real.
This might be becoming one of my fav series. 5 more to go! :)
P.S. I’M ROOTING FOR YOU, TREVAN! PLEASE DON’T DIE!
Note: while this is a reverse harem, this is a lot of slow burns (which I’m a sucker for). Sex scenes aren’t gratuitously done every other chapter like some books I’ve come across lately. In fact, I think they’re done well in terms of when they’re detailed vs not, and are placed well in terms of story (and include actual relationship/character development *gasp*). The sex scenes are pretty secondary/minor compared to the story development overall, which is typically the balance I like to see in my fantasy books.
April 13, 2019
An absolutely we'll deserved 5 stars!
The Reverse Harem genre is one that is, on the whole, remarkably shallow. Now, don't get me wrong, I have been deeply emmersed in it for over a year now, and love it, but more often than not, the writing is mediocre to okay, the plot and characets engaging enough, but a lot of the time it is really just an excuse for the romance.
Well, Kristen Banet didn't do that in The Reception Saga, and she certainly doesn't do it in this series.
She manages to pull of a complex fantasy novel, with nuanced and in-depth characterisation, and isn't afraid to devote page time to finely crafting those relationships developing.
I would say that this book focuses more on the Ivory Shadow company becoming a unit, and the multiple point of views is really effective in getting to know these amazing characters and how their dynamics, and potentially their world, is changed by the addition of Maeve. The over arching plot is developed further, but if all of the characets weren't so bloody awesome, I might say that not a massive amount progresses here, but it didn't detract from my enjoyment one bit.
Maeve is such a detailed character and seeing her slow changes and developments is really rewarding. She grows a lot in this book.
We also see some developments on the Harem front here, although I still have no clue who will be next!
In summary, if you loved the first book, you'll totally love this. And if you haven't read the first book go and do it right now! You won't regret it!
The Reverse Harem genre is one that is, on the whole, remarkably shallow. Now, don't get me wrong, I have been deeply emmersed in it for over a year now, and love it, but more often than not, the writing is mediocre to okay, the plot and characets engaging enough, but a lot of the time it is really just an excuse for the romance.
Well, Kristen Banet didn't do that in The Reception Saga, and she certainly doesn't do it in this series.
She manages to pull of a complex fantasy novel, with nuanced and in-depth characterisation, and isn't afraid to devote page time to finely crafting those relationships developing.
I would say that this book focuses more on the Ivory Shadow company becoming a unit, and the multiple point of views is really effective in getting to know these amazing characters and how their dynamics, and potentially their world, is changed by the addition of Maeve. The over arching plot is developed further, but if all of the characets weren't so bloody awesome, I might say that not a massive amount progresses here, but it didn't detract from my enjoyment one bit.
Maeve is such a detailed character and seeing her slow changes and developments is really rewarding. She grows a lot in this book.
We also see some developments on the Harem front here, although I still have no clue who will be next!
In summary, if you loved the first book, you'll totally love this. And if you haven't read the first book go and do it right now! You won't regret it!
December 12, 2020
Better and better.
April 19, 2021
I am happy to announce that this was another brilliant addition to this series. I had a lot of fun. I don't have all that much experience with RH but I absolutely love the way that, even though there was a new love line going on, Matesh wasn't forgotten about.
Y'know, with this one, I noticed more that it was a tad long winded. I don't mind so much because I'm thrilled with the end result, but sometimes it really does feel like the same things are being said again and again. But! I still had a good time :p
Am really looking forward to The Warrior's Assault now
Y'know, with this one, I noticed more that it was a tad long winded. I don't mind so much because I'm thrilled with the end result, but sometimes it really does feel like the same things are being said again and again. But! I still had a good time :p
Am really looking forward to The Warrior's Assault now
September 23, 2019
Love this series
This review is gonna pretty simple, read this series you will love it! It’s action packed, great in depth characters, family vibes & comradeship, sexy times, strategic fights, FMC is just freaking awesome and strong and is such a pleasure to read her journey and see her vulnerabilities no longer needing to be hidden as she learns to find her place and build on her harem.
This review is gonna pretty simple, read this series you will love it! It’s action packed, great in depth characters, family vibes & comradeship, sexy times, strategic fights, FMC is just freaking awesome and strong and is such a pleasure to read her journey and see her vulnerabilities no longer needing to be hidden as she learns to find her place and build on her harem.
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