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Lara of Xy and her Warlord, Keir of the Cat, have been through much together. Lara abandoned her lands and people for love of him. She adopted his ways and learned of his tribe. Together they have faced plague and insurgency -- and despite these struggles, they have known happiness and joy.
Now they face their most arduous Keir must take Lara into the Heart of the Plains, and introduce her as the Warprize to the warrior-priests. She must be tested--questioned, examined, watched--and must find favor with the warrior-priests and the tribe's elders before they will confirm her as a true Warprize.
But in Lara's heart there are doubts--for what if she is found wanting? Will Keir give up everything he knows to be with his Warprize?
Now they face their most arduous Keir must take Lara into the Heart of the Plains, and introduce her as the Warprize to the warrior-priests. She must be tested--questioned, examined, watched--and must find favor with the warrior-priests and the tribe's elders before they will confirm her as a true Warprize.
But in Lara's heart there are doubts--for what if she is found wanting? Will Keir give up everything he knows to be with his Warprize?
336 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published March 6, 2007
139 people are currently reading
1947 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Vaughan
40 books848 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name.
Elizabeth A. Vaughan is the author of the Chronicles of the Warlands, a fantasy romance trilogy from Tor Books: Warprize (her first novel), Warsworn, and Warlord..
She's always loved fantasy and science fiction, and has been a fantasy role-player since 1981. By day, Beth's secret identity is that of a lawyer, practicing in the area of bankruptcy and financial matters, a role she has maintained since 1985.
Beth is owned by three cats, and lives in the Northwest Territory, on the outskirts of the Black Swamp, along Mad Anthony's Trail on the banks of the Maumee River.
Elizabeth A. Vaughan is the author of the Chronicles of the Warlands, a fantasy romance trilogy from Tor Books: Warprize (her first novel), Warsworn, and Warlord..
She's always loved fantasy and science fiction, and has been a fantasy role-player since 1981. By day, Beth's secret identity is that of a lawyer, practicing in the area of bankruptcy and financial matters, a role she has maintained since 1985.
Beth is owned by three cats, and lives in the Northwest Territory, on the outskirts of the Black Swamp, along Mad Anthony's Trail on the banks of the Maumee River.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 317 reviews
May 30, 2017
First off, the freaking twist in this book damn near gave me a heart attack. A HEART ATTACK.
Ok, now that we've got that out the way... I loved this book. The romance was so beautiful. Their loyalty and willingness to sacrifice for each other was amazing. I loved that Lara let her fiercer side out to play and she let everyone know she was getting her Warlord.
You find out a lot more about Marcus in this book and I was rather intrigued. You also find out more about the infrastructure of the plains and its' peoples.
The events took some surprising turns and I was on the edge of my seat at the end of the book. I thought many things would go differently, only for them to string up and shock me.
Although I was sad to see Keir and Lara's story come to an end, I was satisfied with how it ended. No exactly an open ending, but enough for you to make your own assumptions about what the future held for them.
Ok, now that we've got that out the way... I loved this book. The romance was so beautiful. Their loyalty and willingness to sacrifice for each other was amazing. I loved that Lara let her fiercer side out to play and she let everyone know she was getting her Warlord.
You find out a lot more about Marcus in this book and I was rather intrigued. You also find out more about the infrastructure of the plains and its' peoples.
The events took some surprising turns and I was on the edge of my seat at the end of the book. I thought many things would go differently, only for them to string up and shock me.
Although I was sad to see Keir and Lara's story come to an end, I was satisfied with how it ended. No exactly an open ending, but enough for you to make your own assumptions about what the future held for them.
April 24, 2016
(Full series review to come.)
I don't know if I'm Chris or Andy or both.
I don't know if I'm Chris or Andy or both.
September 10, 2011
4.5/5.0
*sigh* Oh, I love that moment when, after a wonderful story, you turn the last page happy, satisfied and filled, knowing there really is a happily ever after, even if it is in our dreams. "Warlord" finishes a trilogy that is the stuff bedtime stories are made of - a beautiful princess, a strong honorable prince (Warlord in this instance) who fight for their dreams, perils that threaten to destroy good, evil that is sure to overcome. *another sigh* Oh, that life were so exciting and ended so well!
*sigh* Oh, I love that moment when, after a wonderful story, you turn the last page happy, satisfied and filled, knowing there really is a happily ever after, even if it is in our dreams. "Warlord" finishes a trilogy that is the stuff bedtime stories are made of - a beautiful princess, a strong honorable prince (Warlord in this instance) who fight for their dreams, perils that threaten to destroy good, evil that is sure to overcome. *another sigh* Oh, that life were so exciting and ended so well!
September 15, 2010
The final book in Vaughan’s trilogy.
‘The Chronicles of the Warlands’ reminded me a little bit of Diana Gabaldon’s ‘Outlander’ series. There’s no time travel, and Vaughan’s series is nowhere near as epic as Outlander – but on a smaller scale the two series have a few things in common. An outsider follows her warrior lover to his homeland. And both female protagonists are ‘healers’ – persecuted for their peculiar ways by their new adoptive people.
In this final book Lara finally sets foot on Keir’s firelander homeland. It’s a very different community than the bricks and mortar Lara is used to – Keir’s people live in tents, and as if their living establishments aren’t strange enough – their customs are utterly bewildering to Lara. Keir’s people are open with their sexuality (and homosexuality, a bizarre concept to Lara) they walk around naked if the mood suits them and take multiple lovers unless bonded. Keir’s people also have very different ideas of family – firelander women are expected to birth no less than five babes before being allowed to join the army. They do not raise their children, but leave child rearing to the designated ‘theas’ (nurse maids) of the village.
Vaughan has created a fascinating world, and it is interesting to read all of the minute details of these foreign people. It’s still a bit frustrating that Vaughan doesn’t give anything away as to whether or not the trilogy is set in ‘real time’ or alternate universe, but that can be forgiven because the world she’s created is so vivid and compelling. I’m a bit concerned about the cover of ‘Warlord’ however, proclaiming it to be ‘Paranormal Romance’. I really didn’t read anything paranormal – except perhaps for the Warrior-Priests of Keir’s village who supposedly use magic to heal (in actuality they pass out magic mushrooms to make their patients hallucinate). The only other way this could be even remotely paranormal is if Vaughan did mean for her trilogy to be set in an alternate universe – but since that is never explicitly stated, I really think the ‘paranormal romance’ tag is misleading.
The good news about ‘Warlord’ is that Vaughan gets a little bit more confident in her sex scenes. She actually uses the words ‘nipple’ and ‘impale’ a few times. Hallelujah! It took her 3 books to get there, but Vaughan did eventually write details of Lara & Keir’s sexual encounters.
‘The Chronicles of the Warlands’ is only a trilogy, which I am a bit disappointed at; especially because Vaughan doesn’t tidily wrap up the series. There’s no ‘cliffhanger’ per say, just lots of loose ends and questions unanswered. For one thing, in ‘Warlord’ two secondary characters are given romances – but as Vaughan draws the book to a close there is no follow-up to those relationships, which is beyond frustrating!
One of the most fascinating things about ‘Warlord’ was the revelation about the firelanders attitude toward family and child rearing. Lara is adamant that she will break with fireland tradition and raise her own children. There is also the fact that firelanders have to have five children before being allowed to join the army – men have to impregnate at least five times, and women birth five times. However, Lara never asks Keir about his five children, which seems to be a HUGE couples conversation they just skipped over.
And it would have been nice to have details about how Lara intended to overcome fireland tradition and raise her own children – it seems like that would have been a compelling fourth book?
Despite my grievances about the ending, I did really enjoy this final book and would highly recommend it.
‘The Chronicles of the Warlands’ reminded me a little bit of Diana Gabaldon’s ‘Outlander’ series. There’s no time travel, and Vaughan’s series is nowhere near as epic as Outlander – but on a smaller scale the two series have a few things in common. An outsider follows her warrior lover to his homeland. And both female protagonists are ‘healers’ – persecuted for their peculiar ways by their new adoptive people.
In this final book Lara finally sets foot on Keir’s firelander homeland. It’s a very different community than the bricks and mortar Lara is used to – Keir’s people live in tents, and as if their living establishments aren’t strange enough – their customs are utterly bewildering to Lara. Keir’s people are open with their sexuality (and homosexuality, a bizarre concept to Lara) they walk around naked if the mood suits them and take multiple lovers unless bonded. Keir’s people also have very different ideas of family – firelander women are expected to birth no less than five babes before being allowed to join the army. They do not raise their children, but leave child rearing to the designated ‘theas’ (nurse maids) of the village.
Vaughan has created a fascinating world, and it is interesting to read all of the minute details of these foreign people. It’s still a bit frustrating that Vaughan doesn’t give anything away as to whether or not the trilogy is set in ‘real time’ or alternate universe, but that can be forgiven because the world she’s created is so vivid and compelling. I’m a bit concerned about the cover of ‘Warlord’ however, proclaiming it to be ‘Paranormal Romance’. I really didn’t read anything paranormal – except perhaps for the Warrior-Priests of Keir’s village who supposedly use magic to heal (in actuality they pass out magic mushrooms to make their patients hallucinate). The only other way this could be even remotely paranormal is if Vaughan did mean for her trilogy to be set in an alternate universe – but since that is never explicitly stated, I really think the ‘paranormal romance’ tag is misleading.
The good news about ‘Warlord’ is that Vaughan gets a little bit more confident in her sex scenes. She actually uses the words ‘nipple’ and ‘impale’ a few times. Hallelujah! It took her 3 books to get there, but Vaughan did eventually write details of Lara & Keir’s sexual encounters.
‘The Chronicles of the Warlands’ is only a trilogy, which I am a bit disappointed at; especially because Vaughan doesn’t tidily wrap up the series. There’s no ‘cliffhanger’ per say, just lots of loose ends and questions unanswered. For one thing, in ‘Warlord’ two secondary characters are given romances – but as Vaughan draws the book to a close there is no follow-up to those relationships, which is beyond frustrating!
One of the most fascinating things about ‘Warlord’ was the revelation about the firelanders attitude toward family and child rearing. Lara is adamant that she will break with fireland tradition and raise her own children. There is also the fact that firelanders have to have five children before being allowed to join the army – men have to impregnate at least five times, and women birth five times. However, Lara never asks Keir about his five children, which seems to be a HUGE couples conversation they just skipped over.
And it would have been nice to have details about how Lara intended to overcome fireland tradition and raise her own children – it seems like that would have been a compelling fourth book?
Despite my grievances about the ending, I did really enjoy this final book and would highly recommend it.
March 9, 2020
I decided to write just one review for these three books in the series, cause they all tell a story of one couple, Lara and Keir :) originally, I rated the first two book 4 stars, but after a few weeks have passed, I decided to give all three of them 3 stars instead… mostly because the more I thought about it, the more I was sure that it was only a mediocre story for me… don’t get me wrong, I found the first book on sale and was in a mood for a fantasy-ish / historical story with some sort of arranged relationship in it, so I started reading the first installment straight away… and yes, I was invested enough in the story and curious when it will go that I picked up both sequels right after another… and I did enjoy my time while I was reading them, although I wasn’t the biggest fan of some of the decisions the author made within the story, especially in that third book, but still… I finished them for a reason… but even after only a few weeks I have already forgotten most of the details about it… the main couple was interesting, but I still think their romance was underdeveloped… I can appreciate some topics the author tried to tackle when it comes to a relationship between two strong minded people, but it could have been all handled better… I liked quite a few secondary characters a lot, but even though I already know they have their own stories, if we’re being completely honest, I don’t think I will ever come back to this world… it was all too *meh* for me to spend my time reading even more stories set in it, especially since there are so many more that hit me in all my feels that much stronger… if you are interested in picking this series up then I highly encourage you to check out some other reviews of it before making up your mind :)
XOXO
A
XOXO
A
July 21, 2015
And the hits keep coming...in Warprize, I really liked Lara. I thought she was interesting and unique. Keir was a little flat, but he served his role as the strong, silent barbarian conqueror. Then, in Warsworn, Lara made stupid decision after stupid decision...like 40+ days straight of just idiotic choices because Vaughan needed a transition novel between the first and last book in order to make her trilogy. Complete waste of time.
Now for Warlord....let's forget for a moment that Vaughan couldn't decide if she was writing in present or past tense for the majority of the first chapter. It's good to know, though, that even the most independent and courageous people become gibbering idiots when they fall in love. Keir, for the most part, stays the same. He doesn't say much, which ultimately plays in his favor because his Warprize doesn't know when to stop speaking.
Their entire relationship ends and begins with sex. Aside from him knowing she's a healer, which EVERYONE knows because that's all she cares about, and her knowing that he's handsome and powerful, they know nothing about each other. Instead of getting to know each other, they have sex. When in life-or-death situations, they have sex. When they are surrounded by their closest friends/guards, they have sex. Not to disappoint, kids, but no.
Furthermore, her every reaction is either smiling or weeping...Women, especially those who are happily in love, waited on hand and foot, and supposed to be strong leaders do more than just smile and cry. Looking back, I should've made a drinking game out of all of the 172 uses of the word "smile" and 40+ tearful moments. I recommend everyone either stop with Warprize, or buy their favorite bottle of liquor to help them through this book.
Now for Warlord....let's forget for a moment that Vaughan couldn't decide if she was writing in present or past tense for the majority of the first chapter. It's good to know, though, that even the most independent and courageous people become gibbering idiots when they fall in love. Keir, for the most part, stays the same. He doesn't say much, which ultimately plays in his favor because his Warprize doesn't know when to stop speaking.
Their entire relationship ends and begins with sex. Aside from him knowing she's a healer, which EVERYONE knows because that's all she cares about, and her knowing that he's handsome and powerful, they know nothing about each other. Instead of getting to know each other, they have sex. When in life-or-death situations, they have sex. When they are surrounded by their closest friends/guards, they have sex. Not to disappoint, kids, but no.
Furthermore, her every reaction is either smiling or weeping...Women, especially those who are happily in love, waited on hand and foot, and supposed to be strong leaders do more than just smile and cry. Looking back, I should've made a drinking game out of all of the 172 uses of the word "smile" and 40+ tearful moments. I recommend everyone either stop with Warprize, or buy their favorite bottle of liquor to help them through this book.
November 3, 2018
Alot of questions were answered in this book, which makes sense since this was the last book in a trilogy.
I wish that the reader would have found exactly what happened to Isdra and not have had to guess at it.
Lara thought that she did did not commit suicide but we didn't get a real answer.
We also find out the identity of Marcus's mate.
I did not like that Keekai died, they, the good guys, had already lost too many.
Lara's horse was a riot, napping all of the time and he came in very handy at the end.
My favorite part in the book was when Lara went through the Warprize Ceremony and Keir
walked to her the exact way that she walked to him in book one, it was very symbolic and it showed how equal
their relationship was and would continue to be.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 19, 2018
A solid end to the series. Not as good as book one but so much better than book two.
January 15, 2013
I currently have a headache from trying to keep in my need to bawl during the last third of this novel.
My heart was in my mouth when reading a certain passage and I felt I could 'curse the skies' because my lunch was over and I had to go back to work. How could I? With three chapters remaining?
Storytelling like this reminds me why I read in the first place. It sucks you in and demands that you stay up until you fall asleep in front of the pages. You think constantly about the story when you're forced to emerge and attend to 'real life' things.
It's a gift and a curse, methinks.
Doesn't matter - I loved this story and seriously look forward to seeing if there's anything else for our Lara and Keir. As a third part to the story, I don't feel like I should give a real 'review' but just how I feel after I finished the story.
Sure, some scenes I wished could've been longer - particularly the scene where our Lara was approached by all the Warlords. I'm so curious about the people of the Plains and how all the different factions live, yet for some reason, our author writes very niggardly towards those situations that I find myself anticipating.
Also to be crass and honest, I really do wish the love scenes were a bit more steamier. ;) I'm impressed that the author went from a typical flowery approach in the first book to a it more "okay, I can do this" approach in the last novel. Not too shabby, though I can't wait to see how else she's improved by reading more of this series.
My heart was in my mouth when reading a certain passage and I felt I could 'curse the skies' because my lunch was over and I had to go back to work. How could I? With three chapters remaining?
Storytelling like this reminds me why I read in the first place. It sucks you in and demands that you stay up until you fall asleep in front of the pages. You think constantly about the story when you're forced to emerge and attend to 'real life' things.
It's a gift and a curse, methinks.
Doesn't matter - I loved this story and seriously look forward to seeing if there's anything else for our Lara and Keir. As a third part to the story, I don't feel like I should give a real 'review' but just how I feel after I finished the story.
Sure, some scenes I wished could've been longer - particularly the scene where our Lara was approached by all the Warlords. I'm so curious about the people of the Plains and how all the different factions live, yet for some reason, our author writes very niggardly towards those situations that I find myself anticipating.
Also to be crass and honest, I really do wish the love scenes were a bit more steamier. ;) I'm impressed that the author went from a typical flowery approach in the first book to a it more "okay, I can do this" approach in the last novel. Not too shabby, though I can't wait to see how else she's improved by reading more of this series.
December 18, 2025
A strong conclusion, not as good as the first book, but certainly better than the second.
August 27, 2015
Much better than book 2. IMO you could skip book 2, the first few pages summarize it.
August 29, 2024
🆗✅ Characters
🆗✅ Plot
🆗 World-building
🆗 Pace
🆗❌ Romance
Soooo...
After enjoying Warprize and being so disappointed in Warsworn, I was dreading Warlord. Let's just say that it was better than Warsworn, but still not that good as the first book.
Lara is still annoying me with every bad decision and every speech that she makes though. All she cares about is healing and sex with Keir. They have a problem to solve? Sex. They fight? Sex. They go through a life or death situation? Sex. Whether they are alone or surrounded by guards and friends? Sex. Always sex. I really don't mind more explicit and sexy scenes, romance, but let's be realistic here. Sex seems to be the answer to every question Lara has.
With the building of this story (Lara going to the heart of the plain to meet Keir's clan and prove to them that she is a true Warprize) I was expecting a strong ending. I was hoping for Lara to do something remarkable and to prove her worth. I was a little disappointed though. The ending was sweet and cheesy, not the strong climactic finale that I was hoping for.
1. Warprize ⭐⭐⭐⭐
2. Warsworn ⭐⭐.5
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🆗✅ Plot
🆗 World-building
🆗 Pace
🆗❌ Romance
Soooo...
After enjoying Warprize and being so disappointed in Warsworn, I was dreading Warlord. Let's just say that it was better than Warsworn, but still not that good as the first book.
Lara is still annoying me with every bad decision and every speech that she makes though. All she cares about is healing and sex with Keir. They have a problem to solve? Sex. They fight? Sex. They go through a life or death situation? Sex. Whether they are alone or surrounded by guards and friends? Sex. Always sex. I really don't mind more explicit and sexy scenes, romance, but let's be realistic here. Sex seems to be the answer to every question Lara has.
With the building of this story (Lara going to the heart of the plain to meet Keir's clan and prove to them that she is a true Warprize) I was expecting a strong ending. I was hoping for Lara to do something remarkable and to prove her worth. I was a little disappointed though. The ending was sweet and cheesy, not the strong climactic finale that I was hoping for.
1. Warprize ⭐⭐⭐⭐
2. Warsworn ⭐⭐.5
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June 12, 2020
It is still not a fantasy. It is a medieval-ish romance.
I liked it better than the last book. I felt like Lara grew a bit of a spine, and I appreciated that she wasn't bending over backwards to help people that only wanted to hurt her. I think her character arc was decent.
But I don't think it should ever have gotten as far as it did, with Iften. I mean, come on now. That guy should have been killed in book 1.
And I don't forgive Joden. He's a dickhead. Nothing that happened was harder on him than it was on anyone else. It doesn't give him license to be a shit to Lara, who trusted him as one of her only friends in this new place... and he abandoned her, believed shitty things her enemy was saying about her, and was cold to her as if she was the source of all the bad things. Fuck Joden.
I liked it better than the last book. I felt like Lara grew a bit of a spine, and I appreciated that she wasn't bending over backwards to help people that only wanted to hurt her. I think her character arc was decent.
But I don't think it should ever have gotten as far as it did, with Iften. I mean, come on now. That guy should have been killed in book 1.
And I don't forgive Joden. He's a dickhead. Nothing that happened was harder on him than it was on anyone else. It doesn't give him license to be a shit to Lara, who trusted him as one of her only friends in this new place... and he abandoned her, believed shitty things her enemy was saying about her, and was cold to her as if she was the source of all the bad things. Fuck Joden.
February 23, 2024
This is really good.
We learn that things are not so simple for Kier and Lara to just be together.
It's quite funny, in parts and I loved how they all looked out for Lara.
HEA.
I loved book 1 and book 3 but I disliked book 2 on the initial read that I didn't want to spoil the story by rereading it.
We learn that things are not so simple for Kier and Lara to just be together.
It's quite funny, in parts and I loved how they all looked out for Lara.
HEA.
I loved book 1 and book 3 but I disliked book 2 on the initial read that I didn't want to spoil the story by rereading it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 6, 2021
4.5 stars
December 27, 2017
SHE BROUGHT ME BACK WOO! 5 SHINING STARS!
February 21, 2023
In the third installment, The Warlord, we continue from the second book, they are entering the Plains of the Firelanders, and this installment will prove Keir and Lara and the love they have for each other. Neither of them will be tested as in the WARLORD. Because not only will Lara have to prove her worthiness to be the Warprize, but Keir will have to prove his honor and integrity and deal with the rumors that are spreading, and none of them are good. Upon entering the valley, Lara learns that she will be tested, questioned, and separated from Keir until the elders come with a decision. In Warlord, Lara will learn about her inner strength, and will have to decide if she has what it takes to fight for herself and her warlord. With them being Separated, Lara craves Keir's touch and his presence more than ever, when she needs him the most. But she soon learns that she isn't alone, and that despite feeling alone, her friends from the firelander's camp are surrounding her, offering her comfort and aid should she call. She will also have to deal with proving herself, and fighting other warlords that would court her. She will also learn the secrets of Marcus's past (Marcus is a personal favorite of mine, and I so want him to find his happy ending). He is Keir friend and takes care of the Warlord and his Warprize and their needs. You seem more intrigue in the plot than others, and what a battle Keir and Lara have to fight, and they aren't even allowed to see each other. But for a Warlord, he fights for what he wants, and a Warlord always will find a way to be with his woman, in very creative ways. I loved seeing this story develop even more, and seeing both Keir and Lara tested even more, but what a powerful story this was. I think it might be my favorite book of the series, which is hard to say, because I adored them all. But this one, really keeps you engaged in the story, and I felt on the edge the whole way through, needing this couple to find their HEA, and its not a easy one to get for them. They have to fight for it, but what a battle. A story to fascinate, intrigue, captivate you in ways you don't see coming!! POWERFUL AND INTRICATELY WRITTEN!!!
Read
May 28, 2012so, i'm not sure if i've ever felt this way about a trilogy before. . .
here are my thoughts.
i loved the other two books in the trilogy--because they deepened my love for the first book, warprize. i'm not sure that i loved then as much for their own merits. strange, huh? i loved warprize so much--and having a full picture of the culture, motivation, and characters through the next two books made re-reading the first book even better. yes, i said re-reading the first book (well large chunks of my favorite parts again). and luckily, they didn't ruin the first book for me--which can happen in a series.
and have i mentioned how much i love my kindle? my husband surprised me on mother's day. i love everything about it--and it's certainly the best way to read a trilogy--downloading the third book as soon as the second is finished. joy. oh joy. and i was able to tear through this trilogy because my kindle was always in my purse--a few minutes here and there whenever i was waiting. and now i have warprize close at hand whenever i want to re-read my favorite scenes again.
i loved these thoughts from reviewer "uniquelymoi" (about another book): "Well, when I sit down to read a book and escape the crap that comes with real life, it's not the properly placed semi colon or comma that makes me sigh, nor is it the perfectly structured sentence that brings tears to my eyes, it's the amazing characters, the characters who stop being just words on the page and become living, breathing people... their lives, their stories... those are the things that make me content. Happy." that's what all my personal favorites have in common. characters that i care about because they become real to me. and i simply can't put the story down because i care so much. and then i want to revisit--because they've become people i know.
content warning: there were several scenes i skipped in the last two books:). as always, email me for content questions.
here are my thoughts.
i loved the other two books in the trilogy--because they deepened my love for the first book, warprize. i'm not sure that i loved then as much for their own merits. strange, huh? i loved warprize so much--and having a full picture of the culture, motivation, and characters through the next two books made re-reading the first book even better. yes, i said re-reading the first book (well large chunks of my favorite parts again). and luckily, they didn't ruin the first book for me--which can happen in a series.
and have i mentioned how much i love my kindle? my husband surprised me on mother's day. i love everything about it--and it's certainly the best way to read a trilogy--downloading the third book as soon as the second is finished. joy. oh joy. and i was able to tear through this trilogy because my kindle was always in my purse--a few minutes here and there whenever i was waiting. and now i have warprize close at hand whenever i want to re-read my favorite scenes again.
i loved these thoughts from reviewer "uniquelymoi" (about another book): "Well, when I sit down to read a book and escape the crap that comes with real life, it's not the properly placed semi colon or comma that makes me sigh, nor is it the perfectly structured sentence that brings tears to my eyes, it's the amazing characters, the characters who stop being just words on the page and become living, breathing people... their lives, their stories... those are the things that make me content. Happy." that's what all my personal favorites have in common. characters that i care about because they become real to me. and i simply can't put the story down because i care so much. and then i want to revisit--because they've become people i know.
content warning: there were several scenes i skipped in the last two books:). as always, email me for content questions.
July 28, 2020
June 2019
Audiobook
Book 1 - 4 Stars - I really liked it
Book 2 - 3 Stars - I liked it
Book 3 - 3.5 Stars - I liked it
I fell into this story from the beginning and kept going until I finished the trilogy. There are more books involving these characters and this world and there is a good chance that I will read them.
I loved the first book. I enjoyed the characters, the world, the barbarian-type culture, the friendships... just so much. The story moves at a nice and steady pace and it builds well. Layering more and more to help us see the growth of the various relationships and the growth of confidence.
The first book ends well enough that if you didn't want to continue on, you could stop. However, it's clear that there is more to come in the future books.
The second book isn't the same way. There is a lot of conflict and problems all throughout the second book and that slows the pace and excitement down. It also means that the ending doesn't leave things so that you could quit the series at that point, not without leaving a lot of things hanging.
The third book picks up again and the warriors are on the move. We meet more characters and lots of answers are revealed. This has a pretty good ending with most questions tied up but there is definitely a feeling that there is more story to be told.
I believe any future books will focus on different characters but I'm pretty sure Keir & Lara will make an appearance as well.
Keir and Lara make a lovely couple, although, it takes them a while to grow into their relationship because of the differences in their cultures.
This is a safe read meaning no cheating. There is some sex with mild details then fade-to-black. The third book sex scenes are slightly more detailed but still mostly FTB. There is some violence and death. The only profanity is in the warriors language.
Audiobook
Book 1 - 4 Stars - I really liked it
Book 2 - 3 Stars - I liked it
Book 3 - 3.5 Stars - I liked it
I fell into this story from the beginning and kept going until I finished the trilogy. There are more books involving these characters and this world and there is a good chance that I will read them.
I loved the first book. I enjoyed the characters, the world, the barbarian-type culture, the friendships... just so much. The story moves at a nice and steady pace and it builds well. Layering more and more to help us see the growth of the various relationships and the growth of confidence.
The first book ends well enough that if you didn't want to continue on, you could stop. However, it's clear that there is more to come in the future books.
The second book isn't the same way. There is a lot of conflict and problems all throughout the second book and that slows the pace and excitement down. It also means that the ending doesn't leave things so that you could quit the series at that point, not without leaving a lot of things hanging.
The third book picks up again and the warriors are on the move. We meet more characters and lots of answers are revealed. This has a pretty good ending with most questions tied up but there is definitely a feeling that there is more story to be told.
I believe any future books will focus on different characters but I'm pretty sure Keir & Lara will make an appearance as well.
Keir and Lara make a lovely couple, although, it takes them a while to grow into their relationship because of the differences in their cultures.
This is a safe read meaning no cheating. There is some sex with mild details then fade-to-black. The third book sex scenes are slightly more detailed but still mostly FTB. There is some violence and death. The only profanity is in the warriors language.
August 18, 2011
Once again this story takes off were Warsworn left off. Keir and Lara are headed to the heart of the plains, where all the tribes congregate for the summer. Lara must meet the Elders of the plains and be found acceptable before them, before she can be officially the Warprize and be Keir's bonded. This story was full of mystery, adventure, and intrigue. I love Mrs. Vaughan's world building it was so captivating to me. I love Keir and Lara's relationship and how it continues to grow. All my favorite characters were back in this book as well. One of my favorites is Marcus, he has an injury that has left him disfigured and because of this he is considered to be less than a human,and offensive to the gods. He is such an amazing friend to both Keir and Lara. He really watches over them, especially Lara. He helps her to learn and understand their ways,and protects her. Really a great cast of characters. I love how Lara stands up for herself and is so willing to give freely of her healing methods. This story has a lot of things that take place and was really well done.
no language
not a clean romance once again just goes over the line into explicit, I had to skip pages, sad once again good story.
adult read
no language
not a clean romance once again just goes over the line into explicit, I had to skip pages, sad once again good story.
adult read
March 18, 2015
Okay, after the serious let-down of book two, this was much much better. I still didnt think it was as good as the first book but after reading book two I almost didn't read it at all. Xylara is on her way to the plains to meet Keir's people and try to win their acceptance of her as the warprize. It doesn't seem very likely at this point after the huge obstacle in book two, as she is bearing quite a bit of the blame for what happened in book two. As I was reading I was really looking forward to the big climactic ending where she proves herself to the tribes of the plains and they realize that she really does have something to offer, and yes a very deserving war prize. I was disappointed in that regard. She did a few tricks, yes but nothing really remarkable. In the end it was a very nice love story and I was happy with the way things turned out for the happy couple. I just felt a little let down with the rest of it.
July 6, 2015
Mesmerizing! It took my breath away completely!
And oh, how I cried! I could relate to Lara so much. I was experiencing it all through her eyes.
I felt what she felt: love for Keir, true and burning like scorching fire. Her doubts, her fears, her burdens. I experienced it all, as if I was there!
And Keir, oh such a heroic Warlord. All other Warlords (Conan the Barbarian included) I've ever got to know, stand in his shadow. He's the best of the best and so much more than that!
I can't wait to begin to read WARCRY. :D
I want to rate it as much stars as the skies count on the Longest Night in winter on the Plains! If that doesn't say it all about this fantastic book series, I don't know what else will! :D
And oh, how I cried! I could relate to Lara so much. I was experiencing it all through her eyes.
I felt what she felt: love for Keir, true and burning like scorching fire. Her doubts, her fears, her burdens. I experienced it all, as if I was there!
And Keir, oh such a heroic Warlord. All other Warlords (Conan the Barbarian included) I've ever got to know, stand in his shadow. He's the best of the best and so much more than that!
I can't wait to begin to read WARCRY. :D
I want to rate it as much stars as the skies count on the Longest Night in winter on the Plains! If that doesn't say it all about this fantastic book series, I don't know what else will! :D
May 16, 2015
Fantasy/Romance Heartbreaking
Now this, my friends, is true romance...two hearts, beating as one, standing together, even when all is lost.
There are so many lovely elements to this story, the legend of the ghost riders, the humor of a 4 year old "warrior", charging on her trustysteed goat, the loyalty of an aged horse, the meaning of honor.
My advice? Don't read another review. Believe me, you don't want to spoil the plot.
Highly recommended. I am writing this the next day, with tears still in my eyes.
Clean in terms of language, there are brief intimate scenes, tastefully done, never overtaking the plot.
Now this, my friends, is true romance...two hearts, beating as one, standing together, even when all is lost.
There are so many lovely elements to this story, the legend of the ghost riders, the humor of a 4 year old "warrior", charging on her trusty
My advice? Don't read another review. Believe me, you don't want to spoil the plot.
Highly recommended. I am writing this the next day, with tears still in my eyes.
Clean in terms of language, there are brief intimate scenes, tastefully done, never overtaking the plot.
July 18, 2017
After skipping book 2 (because of bad reviews and also the plot looked like it would drive me nuts) I really enjoyed book 3 Warlord. I had a few issues catching up with what was happening but that didn't last long.
This book is much more about political maneuvering and power. But the romance between Lara and Kier was still front and center. The ending is just so sweetly romantic. I loved it.
Not sure if I will continue the series.
This book is much more about political maneuvering and power. But the romance between Lara and Kier was still front and center. The ending is just so sweetly romantic. I loved it.
Not sure if I will continue the series.
November 19, 2014
man, this has gone downhill fast. lame.
December 21, 2014
Phew, this book nearly gave me a heart attack! :) review coming
May 9, 2020
I didn't know what to expect when I first started with this series. I must say that I was delighted with the innovative world. The protagonist is no pushover. I usually don't like them being paired with older men but Keir was quick to warm my heart. I was enticed by the simple life of the Firelanders. Their world called to me. Wouldn't I like to live under the stars, but for the comfort of my precious books. I would definitely encourage people to read this series.
Read on my fellow readers!
Read on my fellow readers!
January 27, 2019
I want 10 million more stories about Lara and Keir, no new people, just them! Damn it, I'm not crying, you're crying!
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