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Legends of the Storm #2
Storm of Desire
The old eddas speak of dreki—fabled creatures that haunt the depths of Iceland's volcanoes and steal away fair maidens.
Haakon wants none of such myths. For years he's searched for the beast that stole his wife, desperate to slay the golden dreki and rescue his precious Árja. He has sacrificed everything to find her—including his honor—but now Haakon knows the truth. His entire marriage was a lie. The woman he knew as his wife was no victim, but the dreki herself. And when he finally tracks down the deceitful princess, there will be a reckoning of passion and glory....
She came to him on a storm...
Long ago, Árdís gave her heart to a mortal man, despite knowing it could only end in tragedy. When her clan summoned her home, she had no choice but to leave—or see her husband pitted against her vicious cousin, Sirius.
When Sirius insists upon a betrothal that will help him gain the dreki throne, she is forced to flee—straight into the arms of the now-ruthless dragon hunter she once called husband. But can Haakon ever forgive her deceit? And can she save him from a spurned dreki prince who would see them both dead?
Haakon wants none of such myths. For years he's searched for the beast that stole his wife, desperate to slay the golden dreki and rescue his precious Árja. He has sacrificed everything to find her—including his honor—but now Haakon knows the truth. His entire marriage was a lie. The woman he knew as his wife was no victim, but the dreki herself. And when he finally tracks down the deceitful princess, there will be a reckoning of passion and glory....
She came to him on a storm...
Long ago, Árdís gave her heart to a mortal man, despite knowing it could only end in tragedy. When her clan summoned her home, she had no choice but to leave—or see her husband pitted against her vicious cousin, Sirius.
When Sirius insists upon a betrothal that will help him gain the dreki throne, she is forced to flee—straight into the arms of the now-ruthless dragon hunter she once called husband. But can Haakon ever forgive her deceit? And can she save him from a spurned dreki prince who would see them both dead?
ebook
First published January 25, 2018
140 people are currently reading
817 people want to read
About the author
Bec McMaster
58 books3,469 followersKidnapped by a dread pirate when she was a child, USA Today Bestselling Author Bec McMaster was raised on myth and legend, and offered her younger siblings to the goblin king many a time. Unfortunately, he did not accept.
Now she writes epic fantasy romance with a dark and sexy twist, which is almost as much fun. She has a secret weakness for villainous heroes, wicked fae princes and dangerous vampires, though in all her daydreams, she’s the one rescuing them.
Bec lives happily-ever-after with her very own hero and princess-in-training in the wilds of Australia, where she can often be found drinking tea or plotting her next travel adventure.
Escape the ordinary at www.becmcmaster.com
Join Bec's mailing list at http://eepurl.com/F_LkD for all the latest news on releases, exclusive excerpts, cover reveals, and epilogues.
Newest Release: CROWN OF DARKNESS (Available now)
Next release: MASTER OF STORMS (Legends of the Storm #5--coming January, 2021)
Where to start?
If you want deliciously dark fae princes, then try Dark Court Rising or Court of Dreams.
For sexy dragon shifters, see Legends of the Storm.
Sorcery and magic?
Try the Dark Arts series.
Kick-bustle ladies-saving-the-day steampunk romance?
Then check out London Steampunk and the London Steampunk: The Blue Blood Conspiracy series.
For rocket-fuelled post-apocalyptic romance with a twist on the werewolf theme, then read the Burned Lands.
Now she writes epic fantasy romance with a dark and sexy twist, which is almost as much fun. She has a secret weakness for villainous heroes, wicked fae princes and dangerous vampires, though in all her daydreams, she’s the one rescuing them.
Bec lives happily-ever-after with her very own hero and princess-in-training in the wilds of Australia, where she can often be found drinking tea or plotting her next travel adventure.
Escape the ordinary at www.becmcmaster.com
Join Bec's mailing list at http://eepurl.com/F_LkD for all the latest news on releases, exclusive excerpts, cover reveals, and epilogues.
Newest Release: CROWN OF DARKNESS (Available now)
Next release: MASTER OF STORMS (Legends of the Storm #5--coming January, 2021)
Where to start?
If you want deliciously dark fae princes, then try Dark Court Rising or Court of Dreams.
For sexy dragon shifters, see Legends of the Storm.
Sorcery and magic?
Try the Dark Arts series.
Kick-bustle ladies-saving-the-day steampunk romance?
Then check out London Steampunk and the London Steampunk: The Blue Blood Conspiracy series.
For rocket-fuelled post-apocalyptic romance with a twist on the werewolf theme, then read the Burned Lands.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews
March 7, 2021
"I will wait for you," he whispered, as if he saw her indecision. "No matter how long it takes, Arja. I will wait for you to make your choice." This man. She didn't deserve this man.
Definitely not as good as the first, but still enjoyable nonetheless. I found it hard to like Haakon (H) and Arja (h) because I didn't agree with the way they handled certain things. But I suppose love makes people (or dreki in this case) do stupid things.
The main highlight of this story for me was definitely seeing the power imbalance (I realize that sounds terrible...) between Haakon and Arja. It's always cool to see a heroine that's physically more powerful than the hero and I also appreciate how it didn't hurt the hero's pride. It was also nice to see Rurik and Freyja again!
I also liked the way this book sets up for the next one, I can't wait for Sirius's story! I'm a sucker for warriors and assassins.
Rating: 3/5
May 17, 2024
The story continues and brings different myths and legends to life through these characters, and I'm loving it more and more with each book.
There was magic, forbidden romance and two wonderful characters, who developed beautifully.
The author gave us Árdís, another fierce heroine, who was not afraid to grow and develop her strength; and Haakon, an alpha hero, who was not intimidated by the heroine's power and did everything he could to help her find that strength. Their love story was epic, of course, but I loved all the little moments in-between, the angst and insecurities, that grew into something else when they let themselves believe in their bond.
A beautiful addition to the series, I even think about buying all of them on paper.
There was magic, forbidden romance and two wonderful characters, who developed beautifully.
She needed a warrior, one who wasn't afraid to stand at her side, instead of in front of her, using his body as her shield. [...] To save her, he had to set her free. To let her become what she was always meant to be.
The author gave us Árdís, another fierce heroine, who was not afraid to grow and develop her strength; and Haakon, an alpha hero, who was not intimidated by the heroine's power and did everything he could to help her find that strength. Their love story was epic, of course, but I loved all the little moments in-between, the angst and insecurities, that grew into something else when they let themselves believe in their bond.
A beautiful addition to the series, I even think about buying all of them on paper.
January 22, 2018
*I was provided a pre-publication copy of this book by the publisher for review purposes.*
Here are some of my thoughts:
• I love the nonstop bantering and arguing between Haakon and Ardis.
• I appreciate the message of Ardis learning to fight on her own, instead of falling back, passively waiting or being protected.
• I am glad that for a romance that has technically started prior to the events of this book, it has a good amount of reminiscing/flashbacks but not too many. I don’t like when books overdo it with the flashbacks, focusing too much on past events rather than the present. Fortunately, this book has the main couple primarily focused on the present and moving forward.
• Tormund is MVP. He is hilarious and I hope he gets his own book because he has been so helpful, funny, and lovable.
• Awwww the Freyja and Rurik’s scenes have me loving them more than ever. They’re so adorable. It makes me want to read their book again.
• Ohmygosh I seriously already adore Malin and Sirius. Their scenes have me at the end of my seat. I’m finding myself anticipating their book from the 1st scene I see them in. I ship them already. Also, how did Bec McMaster manage to get me hooked on another couple with just a few glimpses before reaching that couple’s own book again? (The same thing happened for Charlie&Lark, Sebastian&Cleo, and Colton&Eden for me)
• Once again, Bec McMaster does a great build-up in her plotline (especially regarding the politics of her world) through the books in her series. In one book, there is seemingly not too many plot developments, but as a whole, through every book in the series, I see her plot evolving and building up to somewhere. I love that feeling of anticipation, seeing the subtle developments through each book. Everything is just paced so well.
• That is a great twist at the end, with the “outsmart”-ing.
Overall, this has been a very fun and sweet read, and it certainly has me excited to read the next book already.
Things that you might want to know (WARNING: Spoilers below)
Happy/satisfying ending?
Love triangle? Cheating? Angst level? Other things to note?
Tears-worthy?
Humor?
Favorite scenes?
What age level would be appropriate?
Here are some of my thoughts:
• I love the nonstop bantering and arguing between Haakon and Ardis.
• I appreciate the message of Ardis learning to fight on her own, instead of falling back, passively waiting or being protected.
• I am glad that for a romance that has technically started prior to the events of this book, it has a good amount of reminiscing/flashbacks but not too many. I don’t like when books overdo it with the flashbacks, focusing too much on past events rather than the present. Fortunately, this book has the main couple primarily focused on the present and moving forward.
• Tormund is MVP. He is hilarious and I hope he gets his own book because he has been so helpful, funny, and lovable.
• Awwww the Freyja and Rurik’s scenes have me loving them more than ever. They’re so adorable. It makes me want to read their book again.
• Ohmygosh I seriously already adore Malin and Sirius. Their scenes have me at the end of my seat. I’m finding myself anticipating their book from the 1st scene I see them in. I ship them already. Also, how did Bec McMaster manage to get me hooked on another couple with just a few glimpses before reaching that couple’s own book again? (The same thing happened for Charlie&Lark, Sebastian&Cleo, and Colton&Eden for me)
• Once again, Bec McMaster does a great build-up in her plotline (especially regarding the politics of her world) through the books in her series. In one book, there is seemingly not too many plot developments, but as a whole, through every book in the series, I see her plot evolving and building up to somewhere. I love that feeling of anticipation, seeing the subtle developments through each book. Everything is just paced so well.
• That is a great twist at the end, with the “outsmart”-ing.
Overall, this has been a very fun and sweet read, and it certainly has me excited to read the next book already.
Things that you might want to know (WARNING: Spoilers below)
Happy/satisfying ending?
Love triangle? Cheating? Angst level? Other things to note?
Tears-worthy?
Humor?
Favorite scenes?
What age level would be appropriate?
December 1, 2019
4.5 "She came to him on a storm..." Stars
I loved this book as much as I did the first one.Again Bec McMaster is brilliant with her words and the world she creates is fabulous.Again we have adventure, battles, myths, passion and love.
The story picks up the events after the first book finished.
After Haakon learns the truth about his missing wife from Rurik , he decides to set a trap to catch her and demand answers. He indeed manages to capture her and from there on their adventure begins.
Ardis and Haakon are very complex characters. They love eachother even after 7 years apart , but the anger and hurt H feels for h leaving him creates a continuous push/pull between them. They want to be together but their emotions and stubbornness keeps them at arm length for a while.They are taunting eachother, banter, argue ..and then make-up, very passionately I must say.
Rurik's and Ardis mother is purely evil and malicious and to be honest makes some villains from other books look like child's play.
We get to meet Freyja and Rurik again and as well we are acquainted to another couple to be( next book) Sirius and Malin.
*It's safe to say both Mcs were loyal to each other in the 7 years apart.
As in the first book I would like for a more consistent epilogue .I know we will meet the couple in the next book but I still would like to have more of them being happy.
I loved this book as much as I did the first one.Again Bec McMaster is brilliant with her words and the world she creates is fabulous.Again we have adventure, battles, myths, passion and love.
The story picks up the events after the first book finished.
After Haakon learns the truth about his missing wife from Rurik , he decides to set a trap to catch her and demand answers. He indeed manages to capture her and from there on their adventure begins.
Ardis and Haakon are very complex characters. They love eachother even after 7 years apart , but the anger and hurt H feels for h leaving him creates a continuous push/pull between them. They want to be together but their emotions and stubbornness keeps them at arm length for a while.They are taunting eachother, banter, argue ..and then make-up, very passionately I must say.
Rurik's and Ardis mother is purely evil and malicious and to be honest makes some villains from other books look like child's play.
We get to meet Freyja and Rurik again and as well we are acquainted to another couple to be( next book) Sirius and Malin.
*It's safe to say both Mcs were loyal to each other in the 7 years apart.
As in the first book I would like for a more consistent epilogue .I know we will meet the couple in the next book but I still would like to have more of them being happy.
April 4, 2024
So positively surprised. 💋 4.5 big stars
I know Bec McMaster can write but I didn’t really care for Árdís story, hence my lack of excitement for starting this story.
Haakon was always interesting to me, (because hot Norwegian dragonslayer duh) but the dreki Princess? Not so much.
But oh boy did I change my mind.
I found their story compelling, honest, heartfelt and their TEMPERS. I do love a good fight😈. Actually it’s one of my favorite things to read because the emotions are so raw.
Plus it layed some pretty cool groundwork for Malins & Sirius’ story.
I am so ready for the next story🌼
Read: 28/01/2021
1st rating: 4.5 stars
Genre/tropes: Paranormal/shifters/dragons/trolls/romance
Cover: 3 stars
POV’s: Multiple 3rd person (Primary Árdís & Haakon)
Will I recommend: Yes- (cannot be read as a stand-alone)
I know Bec McMaster can write but I didn’t really care for Árdís story, hence my lack of excitement for starting this story.
Haakon was always interesting to me, (because hot Norwegian dragonslayer duh) but the dreki Princess? Not so much.
But oh boy did I change my mind.
I found their story compelling, honest, heartfelt and their TEMPERS. I do love a good fight😈. Actually it’s one of my favorite things to read because the emotions are so raw.
Plus it layed some pretty cool groundwork for Malins & Sirius’ story.
I am so ready for the next story🌼
Read: 28/01/2021
1st rating: 4.5 stars
Genre/tropes: Paranormal/shifters/dragons/trolls/romance
Cover: 3 stars
POV’s: Multiple 3rd person (Primary Árdís & Haakon)
Will I recommend: Yes- (cannot be read as a stand-alone)
March 21, 2018
This one was okay, too!
No, seriously though, apart from being okay, this series has made me laugh. Bec McMaster seems to have been slightly inspired by Game of Thrones.
Sigh. I fear, Bec McMaster's books will always remain a mystery to me. Well, not really. I know where the problem lies. I've enjoyed her world building in her London Steampunk series. I always enjoy her characters, even though her baddies are rather one dimensional. But one thing that has always been missing for me in her books, with the exception of Kiss of Steel, is the romance. Hmm, maybe 'missing' is the wrong choice of words here. It's definitely there. It's just a tad bit too fast, too insta-ish, not explored well enough.
Or maybe, and there I won't even try to pretend otherwise, I should stop rereading my favourite books, HR, CR, PNR, whatever. Maybe if I stopped rereading, as I have been for months now, I'd stop comparing. I. Shall. Not. Name. Other. Books.
Oh, here I go again, babbling away. I haven't even said anything about the book's content. I did mention it was okay, though.
But seriously, Bec McMaster is good entertainment.
That the romance part doesn't really work for me is also okay. It's still entertaining. I read her books when I'm in one of my moods again; when emotional detachment is what I need because I know that her books won't suck me in emotionally. A bit of a paradox, considering I'm reading romance, I know. But hey, I do try to make sense from time to time...
No, seriously though, apart from being okay, this series has made me laugh. Bec McMaster seems to have been slightly inspired by Game of Thrones.
Starting with some very familiar names to certain family constellations. But never fear, no incestuous relations in this one.
Sigh. I fear, Bec McMaster's books will always remain a mystery to me. Well, not really. I know where the problem lies. I've enjoyed her world building in her London Steampunk series. I always enjoy her characters, even though her baddies are rather one dimensional. But one thing that has always been missing for me in her books, with the exception of Kiss of Steel, is the romance. Hmm, maybe 'missing' is the wrong choice of words here. It's definitely there. It's just a tad bit too fast, too insta-ish, not explored well enough.
Or maybe, and there I won't even try to pretend otherwise, I should stop rereading my favourite books, HR, CR, PNR, whatever. Maybe if I stopped rereading, as I have been for months now, I'd stop comparing. I. Shall. Not. Name. Other. Books.
Though I'd like to believe that I have the intellectual capacity to rate and review a book based on its own merits, or the lack thereof. But then, sometimes I'd like to believe that Joshua Templeman is my boyfriend, or Colin, or...
Oh, here I go again, babbling away. I haven't even said anything about the book's content. I did mention it was okay, though.
But seriously, Bec McMaster is good entertainment.
That the romance part doesn't really work for me is also okay. It's still entertaining. I read her books when I'm in one of my moods again; when emotional detachment is what I need because I know that her books won't suck me in emotionally. A bit of a paradox, considering I'm reading romance, I know. But hey, I do try to make sense from time to time...
October 5, 2018
This book had alot of ups and downs, mainly ups though so thats how it gets a 4 star review. In the beginning I LOATHED the heroine. Maybe one of the worst characters ive ever read, but the author managed to give her enough character development to make me change my opinion of her. In the beginning she was selfish, irresponsible, and an entitled princess. And for the first time EVER I was even hoping the hero would do something with another women to wake up the heroine, but it also speaks to how much I loved the hero because he stayed true to the heroine no matter how much she pushed him away. By the end you could see how much her character had grown so it was slightly redeemed.
Safety:
100% safe. Both Virgins when they both meet and there are no other people after meeting. No OW/OM drama except that the heroine is betrothed to the hero of book 3 and hes already in love with someone else.
Safety:
100% safe. Both Virgins when they both meet and there are no other people after meeting. No OW/OM drama except that the heroine is betrothed to the hero of book 3 and hes already in love with someone else.
August 27, 2024
the execution didn't quite live up to the premise of this second chance romance between a secret dragon (dreki) who married a human and left him after three years due to political issues // an arranged marriage. he became a dragon hunter intent on revenge (he think she got eaten by dragons) and then discovers she's a dreki.
i loved all of that. where i sort of fizzled out was when they pretty much resolved their issues and went on to combat the dreki court political machinations (got bored).
That said it was spicy, pretty fun, and i do like the world McMasters has built in Iceland. Will def read more in this series.
i loved all of that. where i sort of fizzled out was when they pretty much resolved their issues and went on to combat the dreki court political machinations (got bored).
That said it was spicy, pretty fun, and i do like the world McMasters has built in Iceland. Will def read more in this series.
December 31, 2018
Not my favorite Bec McMaster book, but I solidly liked this one.
April 8, 2018
She came to him on a spring storm and disappeared after two years of marriage bliss. After years passed to hunt winged beasts, someone revealed him the truth about his wife : she's still alive and she's not human.
"Seven years spent believing his wife was either killed of kidnapped by a dreki who rode one of these storms, only to discover his wife was the actual dreki had left him bitter and hollow. It was time for a reckoning."
To say that Haakon is pissed is an euphemism, but he's not seeking revenge. He wants answers. Why she hid her true identity and why she left ? And whether he wants it or not, the love he felt for her is not dead. The reunion between husband and wife is explosive but despite desperate needs, Haakon have a closed-off attitude at first.
"It was both a secret joy and a misery to be so close to him after all these years, and yet so far."
What would you do, if loving your soulmate could mean a death sentence for him ? For dreki princess Ardis, it was the obvious choice to go back to court even if it means bethrothed an other man. Her mother and uncle rules with violence, fear and hatred (seriously the Queen make the stepmothers from fairytales look like misbehaving bad girls in comparison), but Ardis thought she was safe from their scheming. Will Haakon accept to help her if she go back to him now that he knows who she is ?
Talk about a beautiful, moving and passionate story of second chance for two people from two different worlds. But like this tale will show you, love is the most powerful thing. I especially liked when the hero realize what it means for Ardis to be a dreki, her needs to transform and that he accepted her with her two identities.
"It always felt so strange to shift forms. The dreki was mighty and impervious, gilded by scales of gold that protected her from danger, but also from so much raw sensation. In her dreki form she heard each groan of the earth, and the whisper of winds through the skies in a way her mortal ear could not perceive, and yet to be human connected her to the world in ways she'd never been able to imagine before her first shift."
"Ardis had been born from fire, but she loved this mortal realm with a curious heart other dreki curled their lips at."
Everytime I review a book from this author, I always feel like I didn't quite succeed at demonstrating her creative genius. There's something that is difficult to translate into words about her ability to describe sceneries, events and emotions and to give life to fascinating universes and irresistible characters. That's why she became not only a favorite author of mine but also an auto-buy. Every time I open one of her books, she makes me travel into different countries or different worlds. There's no better form of therapy for me :)
"His breath caught. His stubborn dreki princess.
Utterly glorious.
Wild and free."
"Seven years spent believing his wife was either killed of kidnapped by a dreki who rode one of these storms, only to discover his wife was the actual dreki had left him bitter and hollow. It was time for a reckoning."
To say that Haakon is pissed is an euphemism, but he's not seeking revenge. He wants answers. Why she hid her true identity and why she left ? And whether he wants it or not, the love he felt for her is not dead. The reunion between husband and wife is explosive but despite desperate needs, Haakon have a closed-off attitude at first.
"It was both a secret joy and a misery to be so close to him after all these years, and yet so far."
What would you do, if loving your soulmate could mean a death sentence for him ? For dreki princess Ardis, it was the obvious choice to go back to court even if it means bethrothed an other man. Her mother and uncle rules with violence, fear and hatred (seriously the Queen make the stepmothers from fairytales look like misbehaving bad girls in comparison), but Ardis thought she was safe from their scheming. Will Haakon accept to help her if she go back to him now that he knows who she is ?
Talk about a beautiful, moving and passionate story of second chance for two people from two different worlds. But like this tale will show you, love is the most powerful thing. I especially liked when the hero realize what it means for Ardis to be a dreki, her needs to transform and that he accepted her with her two identities.
"It always felt so strange to shift forms. The dreki was mighty and impervious, gilded by scales of gold that protected her from danger, but also from so much raw sensation. In her dreki form she heard each groan of the earth, and the whisper of winds through the skies in a way her mortal ear could not perceive, and yet to be human connected her to the world in ways she'd never been able to imagine before her first shift."
"Ardis had been born from fire, but she loved this mortal realm with a curious heart other dreki curled their lips at."
Everytime I review a book from this author, I always feel like I didn't quite succeed at demonstrating her creative genius. There's something that is difficult to translate into words about her ability to describe sceneries, events and emotions and to give life to fascinating universes and irresistible characters. That's why she became not only a favorite author of mine but also an auto-buy. Every time I open one of her books, she makes me travel into different countries or different worlds. There's no better form of therapy for me :)
"His breath caught. His stubborn dreki princess.
Utterly glorious.
Wild and free."
January 23, 2018
Having been intrigued by Haakon and his missing wife in the previous book Heart of Fire I was beyond excited to finally get my hands on their story. Poor Haakon has spent years destroying dragons all in the hope of finding the one who cruelly stole Ardis away. Now he's found out that he was tricked and Ardis was never human but actually the golden dreki who he believed had taken his beloved wife. A marriage built on lies but Haakon is determined to finally track down the wayward and deceitful Ardis !
Ardis knew her time with Haakon would be limited but wasn't prepared for the evil machinations of her family. Now she is being forced to mate with her cousin but Ardis still yearns for her very human husband but things have changed and Haakon is much more wily then ever .
Wow what a horrible family! These dreki royalty are deceitful, cunning and just plain murderous ! I particularly liked that although the author alludes to past events the plot wasn't bogged down with numerous flashbacks and I could still believe in the real love between the couple. I'm enjoying the supporting characters as even though they never dominate the storyline they certainly do add greatly to it. If you love sexy, sizzling stories that are deftly sprinkled with humour then this book should definitely be on your wish list.
This voluntary take is of an advance copy and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
Ardis knew her time with Haakon would be limited but wasn't prepared for the evil machinations of her family. Now she is being forced to mate with her cousin but Ardis still yearns for her very human husband but things have changed and Haakon is much more wily then ever .
Wow what a horrible family! These dreki royalty are deceitful, cunning and just plain murderous ! I particularly liked that although the author alludes to past events the plot wasn't bogged down with numerous flashbacks and I could still believe in the real love between the couple. I'm enjoying the supporting characters as even though they never dominate the storyline they certainly do add greatly to it. If you love sexy, sizzling stories that are deftly sprinkled with humour then this book should definitely be on your wish list.
This voluntary take is of an advance copy and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
May 16, 2020
I’m picky with my animal porn, let alone my dragon-porn. Aiken is it for me, the laughter, the crazy family dynamics, the sexxxx...the claws. Takes a lot to be worth my time to read about humping lizards.
McMaster’s dragon world here isn’t about humor, though there’s a few grins. The family featured is black and white, good and bad - not so much crazy as soulless, led by the evil queen mother and her devoted side kick brother (who seem...uncomfortably close) versus their own good guy and gal children. The sex is sexy...a few rips and scratches. The story here features the Princess who falls for a human...who is manly enough to be almost equal to her in strength though this reader prefers stories where Royalty is the dude.
Which is why the next book wets my whistle. Sirius isn’t just a satellite radio platform. Yum!
McMaster’s dragon world here isn’t about humor, though there’s a few grins. The family featured is black and white, good and bad - not so much crazy as soulless, led by the evil queen mother and her devoted side kick brother (who seem...uncomfortably close) versus their own good guy and gal children. The sex is sexy...a few rips and scratches. The story here features the Princess who falls for a human...who is manly enough to be almost equal to her in strength though this reader prefers stories where Royalty is the dude.
Which is why the next book wets my whistle. Sirius isn’t just a satellite radio platform. Yum!
January 13, 2023
Marriage in trouble and second chance are my least favorite tropes. So this one was an uphill battle before it even started for me and lo! This author can perform feats of magic because I ended up really enjoying this. A dragon shifter story where the shifter is the heroine? Oh yes! Here for a powerful heroine. And while Haakon was a Dragonslayer he was still a human. This is the kind of power imbalance I can get behind. Excellent world-building and loads of likable side characters made this a quick read. Alas, one of the aspects of second chance I don't like is that I feel like I miss the best part of a romance- when the MCs fall in love. We get some flashbacks but it wasn't enough to satisfy me. The third book begins here and omg I'm starting it immediately! Assassin anti-hero? Put it in my veins!
🌟🌟🌟🌟
🔥🔥
🌟🌟🌟🌟
🔥🔥
January 24, 2018
I'm so crazy in love with this world. The fantastic final fight scene filled with magic & trickery reminded me so much of today's current events! How could you fight winners who cheated & lied & disregarded honor & laws? Haakon & Árdís/Árya did it! Without having to lower themselves to become cheaters too, they defeated Queen Amadea! For now!
The romance was super gorgeous! I'm looking forward to the next book ♡ Clash of Storms ♡
The romance was super gorgeous! I'm looking forward to the next book ♡ Clash of Storms ♡
February 24, 2026
Re-reading this series in hopes that the author will release the next book :')
Its been YEARS!!
Its been YEARS!!
January 4, 2021
I love steam punk and I love magic and I love fantasy. So, seeing the prevalent shortage of good books in these areas, I have inevitably come across Bec McMaster books several times by now. They are not the worst books I’ve read nor are they the best and I always wonder at it, because in most cases she chooses very promising premises. But there is always this general sense of something lacking at the end of her books that I can’t always be bothered to put my fingers on.
I think the number one culprit is her pacing, she’s very bad at pacing, she manages to singlehandedly erase all and any momentum she might have gained in her plot design, by the pacing. One simply doesn’t care any more by the end. Character development is another weakness of hers. To date she hasn’t been able to create a protagonist that one would root for. She also needs to work more on depicting the chemistry between her MC’s and what draws them to each other. If she manages to overcome all these hurdles, she could easily write books which would be memorable.
I think the number one culprit is her pacing, she’s very bad at pacing, she manages to singlehandedly erase all and any momentum she might have gained in her plot design, by the pacing. One simply doesn’t care any more by the end. Character development is another weakness of hers. To date she hasn’t been able to create a protagonist that one would root for. She also needs to work more on depicting the chemistry between her MC’s and what draws them to each other. If she manages to overcome all these hurdles, she could easily write books which would be memorable.
February 15, 2021
If one loves Dragons (Dreki), intrigue and strong, alpha warriors, this one can’t be beat!!
September 4, 2019
I voluntarily reviewed an early copy of this book :) this is the sequel in an absolutely fantastic fantasy series by one of my all time favourite authors ever :) but don’t worry if you haven’t read the first one… though you really should, cause it’s amazing :) nonetheless, this one actually works really well as a standalone… although if you are planning to read them out of order, you will be spoiled about certain things, especially the ones connected to the main couple in this installment… ok, hopefully that made sense… I can’t be sure, since I am fighting a cold of some sorts, and I’m not at my full capacity to form coherent sentences… yeah… this should be fun :)
First, let me tell you a bit more about the world this story takes place in general… we are in Iceland... Norway... generally, within that area ;) in the late 1800s… well, it’s an alternate verison of our world, since there are a few magical creatures living amongst humans… dreki being the most powerful ones :) and whatever you do, don’t mistake them with dragons… ;) yes, there are similarities, but it would just make them angry… dreki have the ability to shapeshift into human form, but they remain very powerful, wild and untamed… each book focuses on a different couple, but that definitely doesn’t mean that we won’t see some familiar faces along the way ;) not to mention that certain events have far reaching consequences, or that I am still waiting for resolutions to very intriguing teasers and clues left along the way by the author ;) anywho... let's talk more about our main couple in this particular story :) Ardis and Haakon... oh, they have quite a history together... :) I don't really want to go into too many details, in case you are new to the series, but since some of it is in the synopsis, well... here goes :) Haakon, a human, thought he lost his wife a few years back to one of the mighty drekis, until very recently he discovered that the beast he thought kidnapped her, is actually his wife... yeah... whatever you think his reaction to that piece of news might be, you are underestimating it... now, when they meet again, all of that turmoil will lead to some very interesting interactions... that's all I'm gonna say :) I'm not gonna go into too many details about what exactly happens between them, because their story is a one you really should experience for your own... so let me jump into my still spoiler free thoughts and opinions about this book :)
I loved it :) I know, what a shocker... but to be honest, I am a bit surprised... not because I thought I would hate it... I adore Bec's writing style way too much to think I would hate one of her stories... but after getting to know a little bit about these people within the pages of the first installment, and thinking I sort of know where their story might be headed... let's just say it's not my favourite type :) these second chance romances usually are not my cup of tea, so imagine my surprise when the more I got to know our main couple, the more I fell in love with them and their story... both Haakon and Ardis had these amazing character development arcs that really impressed me... growing into your own skin and finding out who you truly are, and what you're capable of to defend what's important to you... falling in love with the person... the whole person, flaws and all, and not just the person who you thought they are or should be... those are very important and beautiful messages that are very present throughout the whole story :) besides the surprisingly wonderful main couple, we also have some very tempting teasers about the main couple from the next book and oh the agony... :) I need that one like yesterday :) #NoJoke... you'll understand it when you read the book, cause I am definitely NOT spoiling that one but oh... #TheStruggleIsReal ;) I have this feeling, that it's gonna be one of those stories... that type of a story that I love the most... fingers crossed :) I just finished the book like less than an hour ago, so all my thoughts are still a bit chaotic in my head, so I may forget to mention a thing or two, but what you need to know is this: this book, as well as this series in general, is an absolute gem that you all have to read... there's no doubt in my mind that more people have to know about Bec and how talented she is... each of her stories, no matter how different they are from each other... when she writes dystopian, action packed romances... paranormal / steampunk romances full of dangerous creatures or fantasy romances that blow my mind... all of them are absolutely phenomenal :) and "Storm of desire" is no exception to that rule :) even though I did not expect it, this novel absolutely stole my heart, and the beautiful story of Haakon and Ardis will stay with me for a long time :) go get this gem immediately :)
XOXO
A
First, let me tell you a bit more about the world this story takes place in general… we are in Iceland... Norway... generally, within that area ;) in the late 1800s… well, it’s an alternate verison of our world, since there are a few magical creatures living amongst humans… dreki being the most powerful ones :) and whatever you do, don’t mistake them with dragons… ;) yes, there are similarities, but it would just make them angry… dreki have the ability to shapeshift into human form, but they remain very powerful, wild and untamed… each book focuses on a different couple, but that definitely doesn’t mean that we won’t see some familiar faces along the way ;) not to mention that certain events have far reaching consequences, or that I am still waiting for resolutions to very intriguing teasers and clues left along the way by the author ;) anywho... let's talk more about our main couple in this particular story :) Ardis and Haakon... oh, they have quite a history together... :) I don't really want to go into too many details, in case you are new to the series, but since some of it is in the synopsis, well... here goes :) Haakon, a human, thought he lost his wife a few years back to one of the mighty drekis, until very recently he discovered that the beast he thought kidnapped her, is actually his wife... yeah... whatever you think his reaction to that piece of news might be, you are underestimating it... now, when they meet again, all of that turmoil will lead to some very interesting interactions... that's all I'm gonna say :) I'm not gonna go into too many details about what exactly happens between them, because their story is a one you really should experience for your own... so let me jump into my still spoiler free thoughts and opinions about this book :)
I loved it :) I know, what a shocker... but to be honest, I am a bit surprised... not because I thought I would hate it... I adore Bec's writing style way too much to think I would hate one of her stories... but after getting to know a little bit about these people within the pages of the first installment, and thinking I sort of know where their story might be headed... let's just say it's not my favourite type :) these second chance romances usually are not my cup of tea, so imagine my surprise when the more I got to know our main couple, the more I fell in love with them and their story... both Haakon and Ardis had these amazing character development arcs that really impressed me... growing into your own skin and finding out who you truly are, and what you're capable of to defend what's important to you... falling in love with the person... the whole person, flaws and all, and not just the person who you thought they are or should be... those are very important and beautiful messages that are very present throughout the whole story :) besides the surprisingly wonderful main couple, we also have some very tempting teasers about the main couple from the next book and oh the agony... :) I need that one like yesterday :) #NoJoke... you'll understand it when you read the book, cause I am definitely NOT spoiling that one but oh... #TheStruggleIsReal ;) I have this feeling, that it's gonna be one of those stories... that type of a story that I love the most... fingers crossed :) I just finished the book like less than an hour ago, so all my thoughts are still a bit chaotic in my head, so I may forget to mention a thing or two, but what you need to know is this: this book, as well as this series in general, is an absolute gem that you all have to read... there's no doubt in my mind that more people have to know about Bec and how talented she is... each of her stories, no matter how different they are from each other... when she writes dystopian, action packed romances... paranormal / steampunk romances full of dangerous creatures or fantasy romances that blow my mind... all of them are absolutely phenomenal :) and "Storm of desire" is no exception to that rule :) even though I did not expect it, this novel absolutely stole my heart, and the beautiful story of Haakon and Ardis will stay with me for a long time :) go get this gem immediately :)
XOXO
A
January 29, 2018
Ten years ago, Haakon thought that he met the love of his life and would've lived a happy marriage until it was all ripped away. For the past seven years, he had been killing dragons, challenging drekis, gaining the name Haakon Dragonsbane as act of revenge while trying to rescue his wife. Until Haakon finds out that his beloved Árja is none other than a dreki herself (Árja is not even her real name!), that she has never been kidnapped, and the marriage is a sham. Now that he finally tracks Árdís, Haakon wants answers...
Ah ... estranged husband and wife ... torn away by deceits, lies, threats to their lives ... and how I gobbled this all up. McMaster once again has written a winner for me. All these tensions clearly because Haakon and Árdís still love each other, despite Haakon's determination to no longer have any ties to Árdís (plus their sex is hot and tender and full of emotion *sigh*)
Another thing that I always love from McMaster is how she creates worthy villains. At the same time, introducing antagonist characters that ends up as heroes themselves. Let's just say that I couldn't wait to read the Blackfrost book next. I hope book #3 will be released this year as well...
Ah ... estranged husband and wife ... torn away by deceits, lies, threats to their lives ... and how I gobbled this all up. McMaster once again has written a winner for me. All these tensions clearly because Haakon and Árdís still love each other, despite Haakon's determination to no longer have any ties to Árdís (plus their sex is hot and tender and full of emotion *sigh*)
Another thing that I always love from McMaster is how she creates worthy villains. At the same time, introducing antagonist characters that ends up as heroes themselves. Let's just say that I couldn't wait to read the Blackfrost book next. I hope book #3 will be released this year as well...
February 3, 2018
ARC REVIEW
Storm of Desire is book two in the Legends of the Storm series. Bec McMaster carefully crafts a complex world filled with dreki (a relative of dragons), magic, and some wacked out royals. This book features Árdís, princess in the royal court, and Haakon a human dragon slayer. In the first book, Haakon discovers that his wife, whom he thought was kidnapped by the dreki, is instead a dreki. Feeling the biting edge of betrayal, he tricks her into meeting him and demands an explanation. The answers Haakon seek are not easy. Árdís cannot fully explain the reasons why she left Haakon because her explanations are rooted in the politics of the dreki court.
This is a second chance romance that hits all the right buttons. There are betrayals, misunderstandings, and sweet, sweet forgiveness. My favorite part is Haakon. For being a hard-to-core dragon slayer, he has a tenderheart that he has buried the day he lost his wife. It takes blessed time for the trust to be rebuilt, but it is a beautiful reunion of the heart. The chemistry lacking in the first book is abundant in this relationship. We also get a good start in the next book and it promises to be edgy and heroic.
I voluntarily reviewed an early copy of this book.
Storm of Desire is book two in the Legends of the Storm series. Bec McMaster carefully crafts a complex world filled with dreki (a relative of dragons), magic, and some wacked out royals. This book features Árdís, princess in the royal court, and Haakon a human dragon slayer. In the first book, Haakon discovers that his wife, whom he thought was kidnapped by the dreki, is instead a dreki. Feeling the biting edge of betrayal, he tricks her into meeting him and demands an explanation. The answers Haakon seek are not easy. Árdís cannot fully explain the reasons why she left Haakon because her explanations are rooted in the politics of the dreki court.
This is a second chance romance that hits all the right buttons. There are betrayals, misunderstandings, and sweet, sweet forgiveness. My favorite part is Haakon. For being a hard-to-core dragon slayer, he has a tenderheart that he has buried the day he lost his wife. It takes blessed time for the trust to be rebuilt, but it is a beautiful reunion of the heart. The chemistry lacking in the first book is abundant in this relationship. We also get a good start in the next book and it promises to be edgy and heroic.
I voluntarily reviewed an early copy of this book.
May 26, 2019
Since the first book of this series was meh for me, I held off on reading this one, but that was a mistake. Because I devoured this and the next one in the series in a couple of hours. We met the hero of this in the first one, and he didn't come across as such a great guy hunting dragons. But we learn he is just a heartbroken man, who at the age of 20 fell in love with a young woman, married her, but few years later she disappeared and he thought the dreki took her. But now she knows that she was and is a dreki.
Our heroine is a reluctant heir and princess of kingdom ruled by her brutal mother and her brother. Her heart beat and continues to beat for the hero, with whom she lived for wonderful three years until her mother called on her, and fearing for her husband's life she fled. She wanted him to think she was gone and be happy, even if that broke her heart. She never intended to lead him on the path of being a hunter.
However, the hero lays down a perfect trap for her, for a confrontation and you can see the palpable connection between them, the love. But the heroine who cannot lie being a dreki, side-steps the truth, even though the way she holds on to her wedding ring still shows what she feels. But these two meet again of course when the heroine finally flees her mother and the mate she wants to force on her, intending to go to her exiled brother. The hero has to help her along on her journey because of the bracelet her put on her that doesn't let her access her dreki magic.
I think the beauty of Bec's books are rich plot, wonderful characters and showing such a great connection between h/H. These two truly loved each other and it showed. And yes they had been celibate in all their time apart as they were it for each other.
Our heroine is a reluctant heir and princess of kingdom ruled by her brutal mother and her brother. Her heart beat and continues to beat for the hero, with whom she lived for wonderful three years until her mother called on her, and fearing for her husband's life she fled. She wanted him to think she was gone and be happy, even if that broke her heart. She never intended to lead him on the path of being a hunter.
However, the hero lays down a perfect trap for her, for a confrontation and you can see the palpable connection between them, the love. But the heroine who cannot lie being a dreki, side-steps the truth, even though the way she holds on to her wedding ring still shows what she feels. But these two meet again of course when the heroine finally flees her mother and the mate she wants to force on her, intending to go to her exiled brother. The hero has to help her along on her journey because of the bracelet her put on her that doesn't let her access her dreki magic.
I think the beauty of Bec's books are rich plot, wonderful characters and showing such a great connection between h/H. These two truly loved each other and it showed. And yes they had been celibate in all their time apart as they were it for each other.
September 14, 2021
I was amazed by this story, the world building, the chemistry and introduction of some very interesting side characters. It's a complete package that left me wowed. And honestly, I had gone into this with very low expectations.
This is nothing like book 1 in the series which was, now that I compare it with this story, frankly quite average.
The leads are Haakon, a human turned dragon hunter, who feels deeply betrayed by his wife, Ardis, a pure-blooded dreki princess. To say that this pairing is unconventional, is putting it mildly.
Ardis had met Haakon in her mortal form and they had fallen in love, gotten married and spent 3 years in martial bliss. When suddenly one day, Haakon found a pure gold dragon flying away in the place of his wife, he assumes that the dragon has stolen away his wife. He sets out to avenge his wife and turns himself into a dangerous dragon hunter.
This story begins with Haakon finding out the truth about the betrayal. He wants to capture Ardis and confront her about the truth. Ardis is on the run from the dreki court, seeking shelter from her brother Rurik, the exiled dreki prince.
Circumstances force them to travel together and it's clear that there are serious unresolved feelings between them. The chemistry, phew, was enough to burn the pages. The angst level was also pretty high. I loved the story to bits and want to read the rest to know what happens in this world and with the other characters.
This is nothing like book 1 in the series which was, now that I compare it with this story, frankly quite average.
The leads are Haakon, a human turned dragon hunter, who feels deeply betrayed by his wife, Ardis, a pure-blooded dreki princess. To say that this pairing is unconventional, is putting it mildly.
Ardis had met Haakon in her mortal form and they had fallen in love, gotten married and spent 3 years in martial bliss. When suddenly one day, Haakon found a pure gold dragon flying away in the place of his wife, he assumes that the dragon has stolen away his wife. He sets out to avenge his wife and turns himself into a dangerous dragon hunter.
This story begins with Haakon finding out the truth about the betrayal. He wants to capture Ardis and confront her about the truth. Ardis is on the run from the dreki court, seeking shelter from her brother Rurik, the exiled dreki prince.
Circumstances force them to travel together and it's clear that there are serious unresolved feelings between them. The chemistry, phew, was enough to burn the pages. The angst level was also pretty high. I loved the story to bits and want to read the rest to know what happens in this world and with the other characters.
September 7, 2022
Wow.
I genuinely thought this series can’t get better but it just does.
I just love second chance and we got heaps and bounds of the pining and angst here. Simply perfect *chefs kiss*
Haakon believed that his wife was kidnapped and possibly killed by a dreki seven year ago and has not stopped searching for the golden dragon since. When he finds out that his wife left him willingly, his world comes crushing down.
Ardis left the man she loved more than life to save him. And to continue saving him, she will push him away when he finds her.
As the two are thrust into political corruption and assassination events, there’s no one else to trust other than each other.
Gosh, I loved it so much.
🔥 pining
🔥 one bed-ish
🔥 second chance
🔥 misunderstanding
It’s also so nice seeing previous favourites and I am so bloody excited for Sirius!
I genuinely thought this series can’t get better but it just does.
I just love second chance and we got heaps and bounds of the pining and angst here. Simply perfect *chefs kiss*
Haakon believed that his wife was kidnapped and possibly killed by a dreki seven year ago and has not stopped searching for the golden dragon since. When he finds out that his wife left him willingly, his world comes crushing down.
Ardis left the man she loved more than life to save him. And to continue saving him, she will push him away when he finds her.
As the two are thrust into political corruption and assassination events, there’s no one else to trust other than each other.
Gosh, I loved it so much.
🔥 pining
🔥 one bed-ish
🔥 second chance
🔥 misunderstanding
It’s also so nice seeing previous favourites and I am so bloody excited for Sirius!
February 20, 2018
I would sell my soul for Sirius's book right now
February 24, 2020
I liked this one. A bit different from the first one, but still it has the semi continuation of the overall arc. I cant wait to read the next one now.
February 13, 2025
Fun.
Magical.
Sexy.
Magical.
Sexy.
February 4, 2018
This paranormal shape shifiting romance is the second in the 'legends of the storm' series . It is the story of Haakon, the dragon-slayer and his runaway wife, who it turns out, is really a dragon like creature called a Dreki (don't call them dragons – they hate that – and you really do not want to make them angry). Ardis was forced to abandon her unsuspecting husband 10 years ago when her mother, the Dreki queen, recalled her to take her place at court, but she has never been able to forget him. He has not been forgotten her either, he has spent the past 10 years searching for her, changing into a battle hardened, leather trouser wearing dragon killer in the process. When finally he discovers the truth, and tracks her down, the spark between then quickly rekindles. Haakon and Ardis are both feisty and opinionated – they argue constantly – but the tension between then is irresisable. This is an unusual love story, set against the uncompromising landscape of Iceland and the complex political workings of the Dreki court.
I loved this book, it is even better than the first in the series. It is beautifully written and it is so easy to care about the wonderfully flawed characters. The world of the Dreki court is carefully constructed and the story fairly sizzles along.
I received a free copy of this e-book to review.
I loved this book, it is even better than the first in the series. It is beautifully written and it is so easy to care about the wonderfully flawed characters. The world of the Dreki court is carefully constructed and the story fairly sizzles along.
I received a free copy of this e-book to review.
September 27, 2018
I’m always wary when reading a sequel that follows a family member/another character mentioned in the first, and i didn’t think McMaster would be able to make me like Haakon after what he did to Freyja in the first book but THIS WAS SO GOOD. i loved it. I enjoyed learning more about dreki court and Sirius is brilliant! I fist pumped toward the end when he did something cool (can’t say what, no spoilers after all :D) i wish Freyja had been able to demonstrate some of her kickass magic but all in good time, i’m hoping. Straight onto the third i think!
March 12, 2018
4 stars
Second book I read this year (gezzz... I getting sloppy) and also I rarely review in English nowadays, so I might get rusty :/. Storm of Desire is the second book of Legends of the Storm series by my favorite Australian author Bec McMaster, and while I still think this series is not her strongest work (yet), I enjoy this more than the previous installment, Heart of Fire (should I lower its rating, hmm?). Both H/h already introduced, with Haakon is one of the villain in Heart of Fire (but...turn out he's not) and Ardis is Rurik's sister. Both were married but for some reason Ardis left Haakon 7 years ago and Haakon thought a dreki (aka dragon, but don't mixed them up. Dreki think dragon are lower being than them) stole his wife. Turn that Ardis herself is dreki. This is very awkward and you can't blame for Haakon to feel betrayed. They said hell hath no fury like women scorned, but I think it can applied to men too.
Plot wise and character wise, I feel that Storm of Desire is well written compared to Heart of Fire, that imho, feel a little bit mature. Maybe because McMaster already wrote Heart of Fire long time ago and she just tweak it a little bit (this is just a guess). While Haakon mostly brood because he feel betrayed, Ardis have so much character development. I think this book mainly focused to Ardis and I liked it, because so many books I read tend to develop the hero more. The angst can be too much and yes, kinda overshadow the action part, but I will said its relatable. I married, so I know if you fought with your spouse, it can get messy. Beside second chance is my favorite trope, so I don't mind to read Haakon and Ardis banter and their internal conflict. McMaster insert how Ardis already sacrifice much to be with Haakon, and I think this kinda ring true. Every women who enter marriage is sacrifice too much. Her family, her identity, her freedom. To see Haakon finally set Ardis set free, with let her being her self, her dreki self is very heart warming. It's like a punch to all the patriarchy bullshit we hear nowadays. That's why I also like Haakon more than Rurik, because despite his alpha manliness, Haakon didn't try to force Ardis (well, he didn't do it because he feel hurt. So he try to avoid her. Understable), and its unique to see Ardis got so territorial with Haakon. Might be because her dreki self.
I like that McMaster didn't conclude the final act with deus-ex-machina subplot and give some room for story development in the future. Like what she did with Haakon in Heart of Fire, McMaster also give Ardis's ex-betrothed, Sirius Blackfrost, an important role. Turn that he is not what he seems to be, and there some secret that he harbor of his own regarding what actually happen to the previous king murder that make Rurik go into exiled and his younger brother, Marduk, disappear. Seems like we will get more of drekis world with Sirius and his will-be-mate-but-she-doesn't-know-yet story to be told in Clash of Storm. I really can't wait :D.
Second book I read this year (gezzz... I getting sloppy) and also I rarely review in English nowadays, so I might get rusty :/. Storm of Desire is the second book of Legends of the Storm series by my favorite Australian author Bec McMaster, and while I still think this series is not her strongest work (yet), I enjoy this more than the previous installment, Heart of Fire (should I lower its rating, hmm?). Both H/h already introduced, with Haakon is one of the villain in Heart of Fire (but...turn out he's not) and Ardis is Rurik's sister. Both were married but for some reason Ardis left Haakon 7 years ago and Haakon thought a dreki (aka dragon, but don't mixed them up. Dreki think dragon are lower being than them) stole his wife. Turn that Ardis herself is dreki. This is very awkward and you can't blame for Haakon to feel betrayed. They said hell hath no fury like women scorned, but I think it can applied to men too.
Plot wise and character wise, I feel that Storm of Desire is well written compared to Heart of Fire, that imho, feel a little bit mature. Maybe because McMaster already wrote Heart of Fire long time ago and she just tweak it a little bit (this is just a guess). While Haakon mostly brood because he feel betrayed, Ardis have so much character development. I think this book mainly focused to Ardis and I liked it, because so many books I read tend to develop the hero more. The angst can be too much and yes, kinda overshadow the action part, but I will said its relatable. I married, so I know if you fought with your spouse, it can get messy. Beside second chance is my favorite trope, so I don't mind to read Haakon and Ardis banter and their internal conflict. McMaster insert how Ardis already sacrifice much to be with Haakon, and I think this kinda ring true. Every women who enter marriage is sacrifice too much. Her family, her identity, her freedom. To see Haakon finally set Ardis set free, with let her being her self, her dreki self is very heart warming. It's like a punch to all the patriarchy bullshit we hear nowadays. That's why I also like Haakon more than Rurik, because despite his alpha manliness, Haakon didn't try to force Ardis (well, he didn't do it because he feel hurt. So he try to avoid her. Understable), and its unique to see Ardis got so territorial with Haakon. Might be because her dreki self.
I like that McMaster didn't conclude the final act with deus-ex-machina subplot and give some room for story development in the future. Like what she did with Haakon in Heart of Fire, McMaster also give Ardis's ex-betrothed, Sirius Blackfrost, an important role. Turn that he is not what he seems to be, and there some secret that he harbor of his own regarding what actually happen to the previous king murder that make Rurik go into exiled and his younger brother, Marduk, disappear. Seems like we will get more of drekis world with Sirius and his will-be-mate-but-she-doesn't-know-yet story to be told in Clash of Storm. I really can't wait :D.
March 4, 2019
Well, a book about Scandinavian dragon shifters? Sweet. Also sweet, the sensual tension between our two leads: a nice big guy turned brutal dragon slayer and his estranged dragon princess wife. There’s nothing I disliked about the set up - all kinds of fun interactions between these two hopeless lovebirds trying to keep each other safe while a taut line of sensual tension wars with years of hurt. The romance? Ace.
But I thought that the villains were cartoonish, the side characters flat, and the non-romantic relationships were dull. I hear Rurik is the star of the first novel and another dragon is the star of the third, but I’m just not interested in them after this book. To be fair, I’m not usually a fan of this type of sequel... so if I’d read the first book, I probably wouldn’t have wanted to read the second.
That said, the mythology was awesome and it was fun! So I’m probably just going to pretend it’s a stand-alone.
But I thought that the villains were cartoonish, the side characters flat, and the non-romantic relationships were dull. I hear Rurik is the star of the first novel and another dragon is the star of the third, but I’m just not interested in them after this book. To be fair, I’m not usually a fan of this type of sequel... so if I’d read the first book, I probably wouldn’t have wanted to read the second.
That said, the mythology was awesome and it was fun! So I’m probably just going to pretend it’s a stand-alone.
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