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Chronicles of Tournai #3
The Scholar's Heart
Though he is the youngest son of a royal duke, Etan is a scholar at heart, happiest in a library surrounded by his books. He contentedly juggles his work for the prince’s government with his studies of the history and legends of Tournai, a subject of particular interest to him because he shares the secret magical Talent that runs in the royal bloodline. However, Etan’s peaceful world turns upside down when his best friend—the man he secretly loves—unexpectedly marries someone else.
Tristan is the oldest son of a wealthy merchant, raised to shoulder responsibility for the family business one day. That day comes far sooner than anticipated, and he makes a deathbed promise to his father to marry the woman his father chose and become head of the company and family. Tristan values his friendship with Etan and has always been attracted to him, but he can’t forsake his duty to his father, even if it means giving up the possibility of having Etan as a lover.
A year later, Tristan is a widower with an infant daughter and a mother who demands he marry again quickly—something Tristan resists. Circumstances throw Etan and Tristan together again, but even as they succumb to the desires they’ve always harbored, Etan battles his feelings, wary of being cast aside once more. When the unimaginable happens, Etan and Tristan must come together and support each other through the ordeal…and maybe beyond.
Tristan is the oldest son of a wealthy merchant, raised to shoulder responsibility for the family business one day. That day comes far sooner than anticipated, and he makes a deathbed promise to his father to marry the woman his father chose and become head of the company and family. Tristan values his friendship with Etan and has always been attracted to him, but he can’t forsake his duty to his father, even if it means giving up the possibility of having Etan as a lover.
A year later, Tristan is a widower with an infant daughter and a mother who demands he marry again quickly—something Tristan resists. Circumstances throw Etan and Tristan together again, but even as they succumb to the desires they’ve always harbored, Etan battles his feelings, wary of being cast aside once more. When the unimaginable happens, Etan and Tristan must come together and support each other through the ordeal…and maybe beyond.
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First published May 30, 2016
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About the author
Antonia Aquilante
13 books88 followersAntonia Aquilante has been making up stories for as long as she can remember, and at the age of twelve, decided she would be a writer when she grew up. After many years and a few career detours, she has returned to that original plan. Her stories have changed over the years, but one thing has remained consistent - they all end in happily ever after.
She has a fondness for travel (and a long list of places she wants to visit and revisit), taking photos, family history, fabulous shoes, baking treats which she shares with friends and family, and of course reading. She usually has at least two books started at once and never goes anywhere without her Kindle. Though she is a convert to ebooks, she still loves paper books the best, and there are a couple thousand of them residing in her home with her.
Born and raised in New Jersey, she is living there again after years in Washington, DC, and North Carolina for school and work. She enjoys being back in the Garden State but admits to being tempted every so often to run away from home and live in Italy.
She is a member of the Romance Writers of America and the New Jersey Romance Writers.
She has a fondness for travel (and a long list of places she wants to visit and revisit), taking photos, family history, fabulous shoes, baking treats which she shares with friends and family, and of course reading. She usually has at least two books started at once and never goes anywhere without her Kindle. Though she is a convert to ebooks, she still loves paper books the best, and there are a couple thousand of them residing in her home with her.
Born and raised in New Jersey, she is living there again after years in Washington, DC, and North Carolina for school and work. She enjoys being back in the Garden State but admits to being tempted every so often to run away from home and live in Italy.
She is a member of the Romance Writers of America and the New Jersey Romance Writers.
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May 27, 2016
Etan has bided his time and hidden his love for his friend Tristan. However, when he seems certain that Tristan is over what feelings he'd had for Amory, Tristan's lifelong friend who was now married to Etan's cousin, Etan is poised to make his feelings known when Tristan confesses that his father has arranged a marriage for him. To a woman. Even though Etan prefers men (though his father doesn't know that), and secretly desires Etan.
Etan is crushed. Over the next year (off page) Etan pulls away from their friendship, but when Tristan's wife dies in childbirth he and Etan are brought together again. Though Tristan did not understand why his friend had been so absent, his attraction remains and he eventually acts upon it.
However, Etan isn't willing to be one of Tristan's casual conquests. He explains that casual encounters aren't something he's interested in, and Tristan offers Etan an exclusive arrangement (sort of an exclusive friends with benefits). Even though they're lovers the two still don't communicate with one another about their true feelings or past hurts until much towards the end of the story when circumstances finally force them to do so.
The story also covers the magic in the world, Etan's Talent for shapeshifting into a cat, and Tristan's Talent for fire, follows some intrigue, and there is even a kidnapping to interest the reader.
Though I haven't read the other novels in the series I was able to easily follow along and figure out the characters and the magic-filled world they live in. Though the world building was interesting, I thought the miscommunication in this went on for far too long and, honestly, it leached what enjoyment I had from the story. There were also some times the story lagged in places while I waited impatiently for something else of interest to happen.
Mostly though I raged and seethed at Tristan's mother and her meddling. I was flabbergasted at Tristan's seeming easy forgiveness for her actions. Flabbergasted.
If you like magic infused fantasy stories, with strong characters, medium angst, a bit of intrigue, and don't mind miscommunication, you should check it out for yourself.
Advanced Review Galley copy of The Scholar's Heart (Chronicles of Tournai #3) provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
Etan is crushed. Over the next year (off page) Etan pulls away from their friendship, but when Tristan's wife dies in childbirth he and Etan are brought together again. Though Tristan did not understand why his friend had been so absent, his attraction remains and he eventually acts upon it.
However, Etan isn't willing to be one of Tristan's casual conquests. He explains that casual encounters aren't something he's interested in, and Tristan offers Etan an exclusive arrangement (sort of an exclusive friends with benefits). Even though they're lovers the two still don't communicate with one another about their true feelings or past hurts until much towards the end of the story when circumstances finally force them to do so.
The story also covers the magic in the world, Etan's Talent for shapeshifting into a cat, and Tristan's Talent for fire, follows some intrigue, and there is even a kidnapping to interest the reader.
Though I haven't read the other novels in the series I was able to easily follow along and figure out the characters and the magic-filled world they live in. Though the world building was interesting, I thought the miscommunication in this went on for far too long and, honestly, it leached what enjoyment I had from the story. There were also some times the story lagged in places while I waited impatiently for something else of interest to happen.
Mostly though I raged and seethed at Tristan's mother and her meddling. I was flabbergasted at Tristan's seeming easy forgiveness for her actions. Flabbergasted.
If you like magic infused fantasy stories, with strong characters, medium angst, a bit of intrigue, and don't mind miscommunication, you should check it out for yourself.
Advanced Review Galley copy of The Scholar's Heart (Chronicles of Tournai #3) provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
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May 31, 2016When I first met Tristan in The Prince’s Consort, I knew I needed his story. When book two came out and it wasn’t Tristan’s story I was a bit disappointed and while I bought the book, I wasn’t exactly ready to read more about Cathal. But when I saw this, I was so damn happy and couldn’t wait to read it.
Now, having read book one but not book two I will say that you can read this as a stand alone but both couples from the previous books do show up and it is nice to have their back story and after saying that… I need to go back and see just how Cathal redeemed himself, but anyway.
I am in love with this story and I can’t contain myself as I write this. I want to say all the things and tell Tristan that what he has wanted has always been in front of him if he’d just took a longer look and to sit and read with Etan in the library because books really are better than people most of the time. I just want to go back to page one and read this all over again because it was that good.
This is my kind of story, unrequited love. Ugh. I can’t say enough how much this is one of my most favorite tropes and from the beginning we know that Etan is head over heels for his friend Tristan and just when he gets up the courage to do something about it, Tristan announces he is being forced to marry.
Flash forward, a year later and we learn that Tristan’s wife has died in childbirth and left him a widower and a single father. When Etan learns of this, he isn’t quite sure how he is to handle it as he has distanced himself from his friend after his marriage yet duty aside, Etan will be there to pay his respects.
Goodness, the first encounter with these two was emotional and that is saying a lot as we don’t get much of them together on page before then but you feel it. I love that we get a dual POV in this story as I needed to know exactly what each man was thinking. I needed to know how Tristan was going to handle Etan’s feelings and when Etan would let them be known.
Oh boy.
Yeah. How that all plays out was so damn good, so damn sexy and so damn emotional. This book, it’s full of the kind of angst that I am a goner for. I love the angst that comes along with the will they/won’t they feelings as well as the “I am totes in love with you but I am gonna play it cool to guard my heart” kind of angst and this had it in spades. I loved being on this journey with Tristan and Etan; seeing their feelings go through a myriad of changes as they not only learn to be friends once again but become lovers. From eye contact across rooms to confessions in libraries, hallways, birthday parties and ones meant for doorsteps… each new emotion confirmed and revealed had my heart in my throat and me holding my breath.
It was wonderful to see Amory and Phillip again and get their POV’s. I loved Tristan’s talent and his reaction to learning Etan’s talent was so swoony (but I just wished we could have seen more of it as we did with Phillip and Amory) though the reason he learns it was anything but. The whole deal with Tristan’s mother made me angry and though it lead to a central part of the story line - the kidnapping- she wasn’t in the story as much as I thought she would be. Tristan’s mother is a brute who was blessed with wonderful sons she doesn’t deserve at all. Nope.
As per the norm, I am rambling along... oops.
The Scholar’s Heart is a wonderful story where best friends learn the true meaning of friendship and how they can reap the benefits of it turning into love. It’s a story of romantic love and familial love that took me out of a book sort of slump and had me reading was passed my bed time because I couldn’t put it down. It’s simply a wonderful story and I hope the series continues because there a few men, even women, I would love to see get a HEA.
July 2, 2016
I was looking forward to this book. Since Tristan was sad when Amory was a love match for, and then married, Prince Philip. From the hurt after Amory married, to the new connection formed between Etan and Tristan. From how Etan felt when it was announced Tristan was marrying a woman. This pairing was always going to be the relationship in the series. That one readers look forward to. I rarely follow series because you get let down or bored. And I was let down – by the relationship, by the character development, by the lack of chemistry so apparent from close to the beginning of this book.
Tristan marries a woman his father chose for him. After a year, while in childbirth, she dies. Tristan is in mourning for his wife because, while he didn’t love Dariela, he cared for her deeply. He also has a baby to look after, which is overwhelming, as well as his annoying mother who feels men can’t be responsible for babies. Who keeps harping and hassling Tristan to hand Bria over to her. His sister is annoying and supports her mother. Thankfully, one of Tristan’s younger brothers is sensible and a good support from his side of the family.
Etan is still very hurt by Tristan marrying – he stayed away for the period of his betrothal and marriage because he didn’t want it to be so obvious how he felt when Tristan was marrying/married to someone else. He’s a good friend though, and he’s there, as are the rest of the royals, when Tristan is going through a hard time. He doesn’t think to encroach on Tristan’s mourning period. However, that doesn’t mean he doesn’t often think of Tristan, albeit warily. That Tristan maybe never loved him or has fallen out of love with him. So, loving Tristan comes with obvious caution and emotion that Etan has tried to bury.
After a while Tristan needs to scratch an itch. He is gay and was married to a woman due to (seeming) family desire for an heir. However, months after Dariela’s death, Tristan wants a release and that will always be with another man. The unfortunate thing is he scratched that itch with others – nothing is ever on page for those who need to know. Etan is gutted when he sees Tristan leaving a pub one night with another man. And gutted more when he discovers that Tristan has been with other men before he married, but never him, and yet they were so close. Etan is thoroughly perplexed by this. Tristan is perplexed that Etan stayed away during his betrothal and marriage… thus begins the utter lack of communication in this book.
Things I liked :
Philip and Amory. They are such a terrific couple. You couldn’t ask for better friends and family. You can tell the author loves them because they are always true to character and consistently sweet, loyal and steadfast. It’s nice to see Adeline- Amory’s sister – happy and all of them forming a network of support for and around Tristan. These are kind people whom I like revisiting. Antonia Aquilante always does a good job of incorporating previous couples without overwhelming the new couple.
Cathal was good to see again. I’m so glad he is more relaxed and he was a good brother to Etan when he needed him. If he had more time on page I wouldn’t have complained.
Etan had taken a few steps away when Cathal called him back. “Etan?”
“Yes?”
“If what you did with Tristan… if it makes you happy, even a little, for a little while, you can let yourself enjoy it. Let yourself be happy.”
“And if I end up hurt at the end of it?”
“Maybe you won’t be.”
The writing is technically sound and pretty. It suits the alt-historical fantasy world that Ms Aquilante has developed nicely.
I enjoy the shapeshifting Talents of the royals of Tournai and the mystery shrouding it. I liked Tristan’s Talent of fire. But neither of these were explored much in this book.
Things I didn’t like:
There was repetition and filler throughout that bogged the storyline down. At 294 pages it is too long. It could have been cut down and more of the primary relationship concentrated on. Or at least one thread could have been handled more in-depth and to conclusion, alongside a good relationship that developed with intensity.
The whole Savarin thread – the main Sorcerer in the series – was weak. He came to Etan because he believed the magical protections around Tournai were weakened in some places. Nothing much is known about the spells cast a long time ago and he wanted to explore that more. It’s a great concept but nothing came of it other than, yes, they are weakened in places. Time was wasted because there was no informative conclusion.
The visiting academic, Corantin, was a furphy. What was that even about? Nothing. It was kind of implied in the beginning that he may be a suitor for Etan or someone to push Tristan out of his clueless stupor. That didn’t happen. That arc also fizzled.
What was it with the questions? If Etan said he didn’t trust Tristan, Tristan would ask what that meant. If Etan said he had an issue with secrets, and he’d explain a little, Tristan would ask what that meant. It was like he had no knowledge of simple words and sentence structure. He’s a well educated young businessman – I felt like shaking him and saying, “Well, a secret means…”
The chemistry/passion was non-existent. This book should have had a slow burn to knock the reader’s socks off. All it did was frustrate me as a reader of the series. I know this is not a steamy series, it’s not written that way, but I wanted more between this pair. It was so awkward when they were together. I don’t want ruminative perplexity and walls up when a couple is going to bed in my sweet books. In something dark and brooding maybe, but it still better be sexy. I wanted and needed to feel a connection, I wanted and needed some heat, I just needed some overall passion! The kissing was sad as well and the kissing in this series is usually very sensual.
The kidnapping of Tristan’s baby daughter was a weak plot device. I can’t add much more without a spoiler. There was no ransom and the captain of the guard kept checking in with no information at all – filler. I honestly don’t understand the whys of the kidnapping, the details were shoved off the page so quickly I got whiplash and thought, ‘Hang on, what about the bad guys and their full reasoning?’ other than the one partially given. I don’t mind a child if the romance and the couple is to the fore, but neither were. The child and the kidnapping did nothing more than interfere with the already impotent romance between Etan and Tristan.
One more thing. A HUGE thing, Tristan’s clueless behaviour annoyed and frustrated me throughout. It’s bad enough that you don’t personally announce your wedding to someone else when that someone else is more than just a friend. It’s further compounded when you have rendezvous with other men. It’s made worse when you suggest a friends with benefits arrangement when the person concerned tells you they are more about the emotional connection with someone, not just sex for sex’s sake. It is also poor form that Tristan didn’t know much about Etan and yet Etan knew a lot about Tristan. Tristan was a terrible listener, poor friend and potential partner. The most passion I derived from this book was my anger at Tristan for over 90% of the book. Etan doesn’t get off scot free – no. He was a terrible communicator, a very good friend and a very gentle, considerate man, yes, but shocking at letting his feelings and passion be known.
“Why didn’t you, then? Not right at that moment—you know what I mean.”
Etan thought he did. Why not kiss him, why not bed him, when they first met? But that wasn’t Etan, and he thought Tristan understood that about him. He didn’t want to explain any of this now, not when there wasn’t anything between them anymore. “I don’t do that, Tristan. Then we became closer, knew each other more, but you were in love with Amory. And then you were married. It’s different now.”
I feel so miserable writing this review. This series has been a lifeline of sorts for me. I was so looking forward to this book. How I wish it could be rewritten… but that’s not going to happen. I wanted to love this story more than the others. Etan was my man going in and I still think highly of his character. Tristan let me down. Maybe my expectations were raised too high because I view this book as a missed opportunity. I have very much enjoyed the series, which is quite out of character for my usual reading tastes. However, in spite of my difficulties with The Scholar’s Heart, I will be reading more of Ms Aquilante in the future – I thoroughly enjoyed books #1 & 2. If you want to read a gentle fantasy series set in an alt-historical world then maybe you’ll be right into The Chronicles of Tournai and maybe you’ll enjoy The Scholar’s Heart. Sadly, it’s 2 stars from me for this particular book.
Book supplied by the publisher in return for an honest review.
July 14, 2020
‘The Chronicles of Tournai’ series is set in a fantasy world that I find increasingly fascinating. There is magic, with almost everyone having some level of Talent and the royal family of Tournai having a whole lot but keeping it a secret that some of them can turn into cats. There is secrecy and intrigue, as the mighty empire of Ardunn is trying to overpower the much smaller but resilient country of Tournai. And there is a group of characters who are beginning to feel like family. Crown Prince Philip and his husband Amory starred in the first book, followed by Philip’s cousin Cathal and his husband Flavian, a fugitive from Ardunn, in the second volume. And yes, I think you should read both of them first so that you can get maximum enjoyment out of ‘The Scholar’s Heart’. This third novel is about Cathal’s younger brother, Etan, and his unrequited love for Tristan, Amory’s best friend. Their story is not an easy one, filled with sadness and tragedy, but it is also entertaining, full of revelations, and new questions around not just the big cats who are rumored to protect Tournai, but also around legendary dragons.
Please find my full review of the second edition on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review of the second edition on Rainbow Book Reviews.
July 14, 2020
‘The Chronicles of Tournai’ series is set in a fantasy world that I find increasingly fascinating. There is magic, with almost everyone having some level of Talent and the royal family of Tournai having a whole lot but keeping it a secret that some of them can turn into cats. There is secrecy and intrigue, as the mighty empire of Ardunn is trying to overpower the much smaller but resilient country of Tournai. And there is a group of characters who are beginning to feel like family. Crown Prince Philip and his husband Amory starred in the first book, followed by Philip’s cousin Cathal and his husband Flavian, a fugitive from Ardunn, in the second volume. And yes, I think you should read both of them first so that you can get maximum enjoyment out of ‘The Scholar’s Heart’. This third novel is about Cathal’s younger brother, Etan, and his unrequited love for Tristan, Amory’s best friend. Their story is not an easy one, filled with sadness and tragedy, but it is also entertaining, full of revelations, and new questions around not just the big cats who are rumored to protect Tournai, but also around legendary dragons.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
August 15, 2016
From the blurb: Youngest son of a royal duke, Etan is a scholar at heart who juggles his work for the prince with his studies of the history and legends of Tournai, something of particular interest to him because he shares the magical Talent that runs in the royal bloodline. Etan’s peaceful world turns upside down when his best friend—the man he secretly loves—unexpectedly marries a woman. Though Tristan values his friendship with Etan and has always been attracted to him, he is a dutiful son, raised to shoulder responsibility for the family business one day. That day comes far sooner than anticipated, and he makes a deathbed promise to his father to marry the woman his father chose and become head of the company and family.
A year later, Tristan is a widower with an infant daughter and a mother who demands he marry again quickly—something Tristan resists. Circumstances throw Etan and Tristan together, and even as they succumb to the desires they’ve always harbored, Etan battles his feelings, wary of being cast aside again. When Tristan’s daughter is kidnapped, Etan and Tristan must come together to find her, find the person responsible, and support each other through the ordeal… and maybe beyond.
*****
I'm going to be v short. I've been rooting for Ethan and Tristan to find their hea together since i noticed their "friendship" growing so beautifully and steady through the series, and i was very excited they were finally getting their book. I suppose given how the situation between them evolved (re: suddenly and sadly deteriorated) at the end of the previous book, this installment was as cute as it could be. Many readers will definitely love it.
As for me, I couldn’t really stop sulking at how unhappy and disappointed i was by those very annoying (imo) cliché forced into Ethan x Tristan in the first place and ultimately that spoiled my experience of book#3 / didn’t let me enjoy how things between the mcs developed through this volume.
Also, I get it there were some obvious stones and hitches along the road for them but was all that annoying miscommunication necessary? Same as some obvious and trivial plot developments i could sniff chapters before. /sighs/
A hea is still a hea tho, even when it comes out of poor and disappointing (to me) storylines choices, hence the 2 stars :)
*****
Post Scriptum: me @ Tristan through the book
Quoting Kazza's review on that because it shares my same thoughts:
A year later, Tristan is a widower with an infant daughter and a mother who demands he marry again quickly—something Tristan resists. Circumstances throw Etan and Tristan together, and even as they succumb to the desires they’ve always harbored, Etan battles his feelings, wary of being cast aside again. When Tristan’s daughter is kidnapped, Etan and Tristan must come together to find her, find the person responsible, and support each other through the ordeal… and maybe beyond.
*****
I'm going to be v short. I've been rooting for Ethan and Tristan to find their hea together since i noticed their "friendship" growing so beautifully and steady through the series, and i was very excited they were finally getting their book. I suppose given how the situation between them evolved (re: suddenly and sadly deteriorated) at the end of the previous book, this installment was as cute as it could be. Many readers will definitely love it.
As for me, I couldn’t really stop sulking at how unhappy and disappointed i was by those very annoying (imo) cliché forced into Ethan x Tristan in the first place and ultimately that spoiled my experience of book#3 / didn’t let me enjoy how things between the mcs developed through this volume.
Also, I get it there were some obvious stones and hitches along the road for them but was all that annoying miscommunication necessary? Same as some obvious and trivial plot developments i could sniff chapters before. /sighs/
A hea is still a hea tho, even when it comes out of poor and disappointing (to me) storylines choices, hence the 2 stars :)
*****
Post Scriptum: me @ Tristan through the book
Quoting Kazza's review on that because it shares my same thoughts:
Tristan’s clueless behaviour annoyed and frustrated me throughout. It’s bad enough that you don’t personally announce your wedding to someone else when that someone else is more than just a friend. It’s further compounded when you have rendezvous with other men. It’s made worse when you suggest a friends with benefits arrangement when the person concerned tells you they are more about the emotional connection with someone, not just sex for sex’s sake. It is also poor form that Tristan didn’t know much about Etan and yet Etan knew a lot about Tristan. Tristan was a terrible listener, poor friend and potential partner. The most passion I derived from this book was my anger at Tristan for over 90% of the book.
February 15, 2023
Book – The Scholar's Heart (Chronicles of Tournai #3)
Author – Antonia Aquilante
Star rating - ★★★★★
No. of Pages – 294
Cover – Stunning!
POV – 3rd person, past tense, multiple POV (Predominantly Etan and Tristan, which small instances of Philip and Amory)
Would I read it again – Yes.
Genre – LGBT, Fantasy, Adventure, Romance
** I WAS GIVEN THIS BOOK, BY THE AUTHOR, IN RETURN FOR AN HONEST REVIEW **
This has to be the best in the series so far. Though I absolutely loved the light, sweetness of Amory and Philip, and the tension between Cathal and Flavian, the story of Etan and Tristan had me nearly in tears the whole way through. Not only was it heartbreaking, with a few light moments, but I've waited so long to read it and how it ends up is just so unfair, after all they've been through.
~
Well, as I expected, I absolutely LOVED this story. I've been waiting so long to read about Etan and Tristan and I wasn't disappointed. But, due to not wanting to give away spoilers and being emotionally drained after finishing it, I don't really want to say too much.
I was crying by 3%, because Tristan was still perfect, I still loved Etan and now Bria was included. It was just too much for my heart to take. Then there was that conversation between Amory and Tristan. Amory, as usual, rushing to Tristan's side in his time of need, doing everything possible to make his best friend happy and take care of him.
I hated Tristan's mother right from the start and, as the story progressed, that didn't change. I didn't much like Selene either.
Seeing both sides was so much more effective in this story, because the relationship is so much more uncertain and unsettled than the previous stories. For the first time, all I wanted to do was grab them, shake them and scream at both of them about how obvious they were, misinterpreting what they thought they knew.
The brotherly talks – Etan and Cathal, Amory and Tristan, now Maxen and Tristan too – seriously killed me. They were the absolutely heart-breaking moments for me.
~
Overall, the story was so much sadder than the others. I must have spent about 80% of it near to tears, with the rest evenly split between smiling and crying. I've always loved Tristan and Etan, since they were first introduced in this series, and that hasn't changes. But sometimes they can be such idiots!
~
Favourite Quote
“Tristan blinked bright blue eyes once, then again, at his harshly spoken question. Etan had loved those eyes, loved how bright everything about Tristan seemed to be. Now, looking at them just hurt.”
““I don't want you hurt, Etan.”
“I know. So this morning needs to be the end of it with Tristan.”
“The end of everything?””
““You can, you know,” he said quietly, trying to convey all his feelings, all that he would do for Tristan in just his voice as he spoke the words. “You can break if you need to, here, with me. I'll be here, and I'll hold on to you, and I'll help you put the pieces back together.””
Author – Antonia Aquilante
Star rating - ★★★★★
No. of Pages – 294
Cover – Stunning!
POV – 3rd person, past tense, multiple POV (Predominantly Etan and Tristan, which small instances of Philip and Amory)
Would I read it again – Yes.
Genre – LGBT, Fantasy, Adventure, Romance
** I WAS GIVEN THIS BOOK, BY THE AUTHOR, IN RETURN FOR AN HONEST REVIEW **
This has to be the best in the series so far. Though I absolutely loved the light, sweetness of Amory and Philip, and the tension between Cathal and Flavian, the story of Etan and Tristan had me nearly in tears the whole way through. Not only was it heartbreaking, with a few light moments, but I've waited so long to read it and how it ends up is just so unfair, after all they've been through.
~
Well, as I expected, I absolutely LOVED this story. I've been waiting so long to read about Etan and Tristan and I wasn't disappointed. But, due to not wanting to give away spoilers and being emotionally drained after finishing it, I don't really want to say too much.
I was crying by 3%, because Tristan was still perfect, I still loved Etan and now Bria was included. It was just too much for my heart to take. Then there was that conversation between Amory and Tristan. Amory, as usual, rushing to Tristan's side in his time of need, doing everything possible to make his best friend happy and take care of him.
I hated Tristan's mother right from the start and, as the story progressed, that didn't change. I didn't much like Selene either.
Seeing both sides was so much more effective in this story, because the relationship is so much more uncertain and unsettled than the previous stories. For the first time, all I wanted to do was grab them, shake them and scream at both of them about how obvious they were, misinterpreting what they thought they knew.
The brotherly talks – Etan and Cathal, Amory and Tristan, now Maxen and Tristan too – seriously killed me. They were the absolutely heart-breaking moments for me.
~
Overall, the story was so much sadder than the others. I must have spent about 80% of it near to tears, with the rest evenly split between smiling and crying. I've always loved Tristan and Etan, since they were first introduced in this series, and that hasn't changes. But sometimes they can be such idiots!
~
Favourite Quote
“Tristan blinked bright blue eyes once, then again, at his harshly spoken question. Etan had loved those eyes, loved how bright everything about Tristan seemed to be. Now, looking at them just hurt.”
““I don't want you hurt, Etan.”
“I know. So this morning needs to be the end of it with Tristan.”
“The end of everything?””
““You can, you know,” he said quietly, trying to convey all his feelings, all that he would do for Tristan in just his voice as he spoke the words. “You can break if you need to, here, with me. I'll be here, and I'll hold on to you, and I'll help you put the pieces back together.””
June 2, 2016
The Scholar’s Heart was… in a word, wonderful. It is a story of love, pain, redemption, friendship, learning, and so much more. It is also one that teases the reader. It made me want to demand, when is book four coming? The author graciously has informed me that we only *cough* have to wait until November/December for the follow-up, and trust me, you will want it.
This is not just as story of romantic love, but one about family. Tristan has a baby daughter and has lost his wife tragically. While he didn’t love her, he did care for her, so this is a hard thing for him. His mother doesn’t make things easier for him. The blurb doesn’t do justice to how pushy and bullying his mother is about the idea of him remarrying.
Etan has loved Tristan for years now, as we all know. He however, pulled away when Tristan married. I can’t blame him, I would have too. But fate, tragedy, and maybe even their friends intercede and before long, they are faced with the truth. But has too much happened, too much time, too much pain, too much hurt. Can Etan trust Tristan? Can Tristan relegate himself, body and heart, to one man? And can they save Tristan’s daughter?
Thankfully, The Scholar’s Heart is an HEA, so yes, but it wasn’t easy getting there. And the things we learn…. The things we are teased with possibilities about…. The world building is again excellent and the characters well developed. The plot twisty enough to be enjoyable, the sex hot enough to require a fan or two, and the romance sweet and tangible enough that my heart hurt, squeezed, and raced for Tristan and Etan. Definitely a ReRead.
This is not just as story of romantic love, but one about family. Tristan has a baby daughter and has lost his wife tragically. While he didn’t love her, he did care for her, so this is a hard thing for him. His mother doesn’t make things easier for him. The blurb doesn’t do justice to how pushy and bullying his mother is about the idea of him remarrying.
Etan has loved Tristan for years now, as we all know. He however, pulled away when Tristan married. I can’t blame him, I would have too. But fate, tragedy, and maybe even their friends intercede and before long, they are faced with the truth. But has too much happened, too much time, too much pain, too much hurt. Can Etan trust Tristan? Can Tristan relegate himself, body and heart, to one man? And can they save Tristan’s daughter?
Thankfully, The Scholar’s Heart is an HEA, so yes, but it wasn’t easy getting there. And the things we learn…. The things we are teased with possibilities about…. The world building is again excellent and the characters well developed. The plot twisty enough to be enjoyable, the sex hot enough to require a fan or two, and the romance sweet and tangible enough that my heart hurt, squeezed, and raced for Tristan and Etan. Definitely a ReRead.
July 14, 2020
This is the third book in a fantasy series, and likely best enjoyed when read in sequence, though it can be read as a standalone.
Etan is a cousin to Philip, the Crown Prince of Tournai, a small but well-situated country with a bustling trade port in its capital city of Jumelle. Etan lives in the palace with Philip his consort-husband Amory and Etan's brother Cathal who is married to Flavian, an artist who escaped the emperor of Ardunn's plots to enslave him for his Talent. Etan and Cathal are ministers (of a sort) in the governance of Tournai, indispensable to both Philip and Amory--with whom they are both family and close friends.
Two years ago Etan fell hard for Amory's childhood friend Tristan, and he thought his love was reciprocated, though they had no physical demonstrations. Etan is a shy man, a noted scholar at the university in addition to his duties to the crown. He didn't quite know how to approach Tristan with his desire for intimacy, especially because he was sensitive to Tristan's heartbreak when Amory married the Prince. Over their acquaintance, Etan--who is usually best at home in his library--makes time to spend with Tristan socially. He was about to propose marriage when Tristan stuns Etan by deciding to marry a woman, and their friendship essentially disintegrates. A year has gone by and Tristan's wife has just died in the process of childbirth. And duties to Tristan's place as Amory's oldest friend necessitate bringing Tristan and Etan back together.
Tristan never loved his wife. He preferred men, as his father knew, but Tristan felt pressured to marry a woman to create heirs for the shipping company he now runs. As the eldest of the family, Tristan runs the business since his father died shortly after his wedding. That was the reason to marry with haste, after all. He didn't hate his wife, but they were more cordial acquaintances than lovers, and he's mourning the loss of her in his baby daughter Bria's life. Tristan is furious that his high-handed mother sent the Prince's chief healer away during the birth because his healing Talent could have saved his wife--and he's appalled that his mother has plans to take his infant to her own home to raise. No, he will not allow this, but his mother is sneaky. If she can't raise the baby herself she's going to pressure Tristan into another marriage to a woman who can raise the baby. It's a problem.
Tristan is happy to welcome Etan back into his life, but he's quick to notice that Etan is not the same close friend anymore. He's reserved and their relations are strained. Tristan doesn't understand, and he's shocked when Etan sends his an evil eye one night when their paths cross, because Etan witnesses Tristan leaving teh gathering with intent to bed a man he picked up there. Etan has never gotten over the hurt he felt when Tristan married, but he's never spoken about the depth of his feelings with anyone, let alone Tristan. Some hard truths have to come out if these men are going to salvage thier friendship, and plan for a future together.
As with the previous books, there is court intrigue and troubles both within and abroad. Tristan's troubles are all domestic, and he's pitted against his own mother for the right to live his adult life as he sees fit. He's a doting father, and his love for Bria grows by the day. It is in contrast to the machinations of his mother that Tristan begins to see Etan in a new light. And, he's eager to pursue a lasting liaison if Etan is willing. Etan, for his part, saw Tristan as his forever person, and he's afraid to let himself love him again and get his heart obliterated. Still, he follows the counsel of Cathal, begining a physical relationship with Tristan if they can remain monogamous. He still keeps his emotions separate, for a time--even when Tristan is all in. And, when Etan finally decides to give his whole heart back to Tristan, it's at the exact moment Tristan needs his unconditional love the most, because Bria is in danger this daddy is a hot mess.
I really liked the story, and how Etan and Tristan navigate their paths to reconnection. Their previous friendship was a solid foundation, but Tristan soon realized he was more selfish in that arrangement, never seeing or comprehending the lengths that Etan went to to allow their friendship to flourish. His awakening to these situations has come at a hard cost, but he strives every day to do it better, and be a better man. He regrets the compromises he made that shut Etan out of his life, but his love for Bria is a boon. The love story grew reliably and equally this second time around. Expect some real courting, lots of court business, and scholars getting a handle on new and exciting information. Tristan makes the big leap for love, and Etan is not long in following him.
Not sure where this series is going, but there are plenty of royal cousins who could get the happily Ever Afters in the service of Tournai.
Etan is a cousin to Philip, the Crown Prince of Tournai, a small but well-situated country with a bustling trade port in its capital city of Jumelle. Etan lives in the palace with Philip his consort-husband Amory and Etan's brother Cathal who is married to Flavian, an artist who escaped the emperor of Ardunn's plots to enslave him for his Talent. Etan and Cathal are ministers (of a sort) in the governance of Tournai, indispensable to both Philip and Amory--with whom they are both family and close friends.
Two years ago Etan fell hard for Amory's childhood friend Tristan, and he thought his love was reciprocated, though they had no physical demonstrations. Etan is a shy man, a noted scholar at the university in addition to his duties to the crown. He didn't quite know how to approach Tristan with his desire for intimacy, especially because he was sensitive to Tristan's heartbreak when Amory married the Prince. Over their acquaintance, Etan--who is usually best at home in his library--makes time to spend with Tristan socially. He was about to propose marriage when Tristan stuns Etan by deciding to marry a woman, and their friendship essentially disintegrates. A year has gone by and Tristan's wife has just died in the process of childbirth. And duties to Tristan's place as Amory's oldest friend necessitate bringing Tristan and Etan back together.
Tristan never loved his wife. He preferred men, as his father knew, but Tristan felt pressured to marry a woman to create heirs for the shipping company he now runs. As the eldest of the family, Tristan runs the business since his father died shortly after his wedding. That was the reason to marry with haste, after all. He didn't hate his wife, but they were more cordial acquaintances than lovers, and he's mourning the loss of her in his baby daughter Bria's life. Tristan is furious that his high-handed mother sent the Prince's chief healer away during the birth because his healing Talent could have saved his wife--and he's appalled that his mother has plans to take his infant to her own home to raise. No, he will not allow this, but his mother is sneaky. If she can't raise the baby herself she's going to pressure Tristan into another marriage to a woman who can raise the baby. It's a problem.
Tristan is happy to welcome Etan back into his life, but he's quick to notice that Etan is not the same close friend anymore. He's reserved and their relations are strained. Tristan doesn't understand, and he's shocked when Etan sends his an evil eye one night when their paths cross, because Etan witnesses Tristan leaving teh gathering with intent to bed a man he picked up there. Etan has never gotten over the hurt he felt when Tristan married, but he's never spoken about the depth of his feelings with anyone, let alone Tristan. Some hard truths have to come out if these men are going to salvage thier friendship, and plan for a future together.
As with the previous books, there is court intrigue and troubles both within and abroad. Tristan's troubles are all domestic, and he's pitted against his own mother for the right to live his adult life as he sees fit. He's a doting father, and his love for Bria grows by the day. It is in contrast to the machinations of his mother that Tristan begins to see Etan in a new light. And, he's eager to pursue a lasting liaison if Etan is willing. Etan, for his part, saw Tristan as his forever person, and he's afraid to let himself love him again and get his heart obliterated. Still, he follows the counsel of Cathal, begining a physical relationship with Tristan if they can remain monogamous. He still keeps his emotions separate, for a time--even when Tristan is all in. And, when Etan finally decides to give his whole heart back to Tristan, it's at the exact moment Tristan needs his unconditional love the most, because Bria is in danger this daddy is a hot mess.
I really liked the story, and how Etan and Tristan navigate their paths to reconnection. Their previous friendship was a solid foundation, but Tristan soon realized he was more selfish in that arrangement, never seeing or comprehending the lengths that Etan went to to allow their friendship to flourish. His awakening to these situations has come at a hard cost, but he strives every day to do it better, and be a better man. He regrets the compromises he made that shut Etan out of his life, but his love for Bria is a boon. The love story grew reliably and equally this second time around. Expect some real courting, lots of court business, and scholars getting a handle on new and exciting information. Tristan makes the big leap for love, and Etan is not long in following him.
Not sure where this series is going, but there are plenty of royal cousins who could get the happily Ever Afters in the service of Tournai.
July 23, 2020
Originally published on my blog: Nonstop Reader.
The Scholar's Heart is the third book in a series by Antonia Aquilante. Originally released in 2016, this reformat and re-released 13th July 2020 is ~357 pages and available in ebook format. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately.
This is an M/M romance with light racy consensual content. There is kissing and touching involved but nothing completely explicit (soaring heights, panting, etc - purple prose, but nothing else). There is a lot of misunderstanding between the characters and so incredibly much unnecessary drama along with a weird infant kidnapping subplot. The denouement seemed forced and the pacing was odd. I also spent quite a lot of the book wanting to whack Tristan with a clue-by-four and lock his revolting mother in the broom closet).
Although it's the third book in the series, I didn't have any trouble following the storyline. The plotting is capable and the writing is quite good. The characterizations are well done and the dialogue is generally good and not clunky. It's just the unnecessary drama and the plot filler which dragged it down for me personally.
I didn't feel much chemistry between the two main characters and the resolution is sweet, but lacked verisimilitude for me. I also felt the fantasy setting was lacking. Yes, the royal family are shapeshifters, and there's a minor (unresolved in this book, presumably the plot of book 4) subplot element about the kingdom's border protection spells weakening, but it just felt like incidental scene-dressing. I would recommend this one to current fans of the series or fans of drama filled M/M romance.
Three stars, probably 4 for current fans of the series.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
The Scholar's Heart is the third book in a series by Antonia Aquilante. Originally released in 2016, this reformat and re-released 13th July 2020 is ~357 pages and available in ebook format. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately.
This is an M/M romance with light racy consensual content. There is kissing and touching involved but nothing completely explicit (soaring heights, panting, etc - purple prose, but nothing else). There is a lot of misunderstanding between the characters and so incredibly much unnecessary drama along with a weird infant kidnapping subplot. The denouement seemed forced and the pacing was odd. I also spent quite a lot of the book wanting to whack Tristan with a clue-by-four and lock his revolting mother in the broom closet).
Although it's the third book in the series, I didn't have any trouble following the storyline. The plotting is capable and the writing is quite good. The characterizations are well done and the dialogue is generally good and not clunky. It's just the unnecessary drama and the plot filler which dragged it down for me personally.
I didn't feel much chemistry between the two main characters and the resolution is sweet, but lacked verisimilitude for me. I also felt the fantasy setting was lacking. Yes, the royal family are shapeshifters, and there's a minor (unresolved in this book, presumably the plot of book 4) subplot element about the kingdom's border protection spells weakening, but it just felt like incidental scene-dressing. I would recommend this one to current fans of the series or fans of drama filled M/M romance.
Three stars, probably 4 for current fans of the series.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
July 24, 2020
A slow burn, friends-to-lovers royal romance.
'The Scholar's heart' is book #3 in the Chronicles of Tournai series but can be read as a standalone, though I think it would be more enjoyable if read after the previous 2 books as the cast of side characters all play important roles in the story.
The story revolves around Etan-scholar and total bookworm at heart, who possesses the secret magical talent that runs in the royal bloodlines. He's also hopelessly in love with his friend Tristan, who's a little clueless and beared down by the burden of familial obligations.
When the two rekindle their friendship and give into the intense attraction they share, Tristan is swept by the whirlwind of emotions as he discovers the multiple facets of Etan's kindness, intelligence and his heart. Their chemistry is off the charts and the slow burn nature of their romance is heart-warming to read.
The author's writing flows well and it's hard not to fall in love with Etan's personality-soft, vulnerable but at the same time determined and independent.
Recommended to those who are fans of this series and those looking for a good slowburn, second chance romance. I'll be looking to catch up on the other books in this series.
'The Scholar's heart' is book #3 in the Chronicles of Tournai series but can be read as a standalone, though I think it would be more enjoyable if read after the previous 2 books as the cast of side characters all play important roles in the story.
The story revolves around Etan-scholar and total bookworm at heart, who possesses the secret magical talent that runs in the royal bloodlines. He's also hopelessly in love with his friend Tristan, who's a little clueless and beared down by the burden of familial obligations.
When the two rekindle their friendship and give into the intense attraction they share, Tristan is swept by the whirlwind of emotions as he discovers the multiple facets of Etan's kindness, intelligence and his heart. Their chemistry is off the charts and the slow burn nature of their romance is heart-warming to read.
|"They knelt there together, exchanging more kisses, ghosting fingertips across expanses of skin, and Tristan began to feel as if he were floating, drugged by the touch of Etan’s lips to his, the feel of Etan’s skin against his, the movement of Etan’s hands over his body, the scent of Etan in each breath."|
The author's writing flows well and it's hard not to fall in love with Etan's personality-soft, vulnerable but at the same time determined and independent.
Recommended to those who are fans of this series and those looking for a good slowburn, second chance romance. I'll be looking to catch up on the other books in this series.
July 26, 2020
This is a solid installment in a really interesting series. Tournai is such a nuanced world, full of rich detail and just enough unique lore to be immersive rather than overwhelming. The royal family and its assorted romances make a steady and rewarding ley line through each book, and the couple at the heart of this one definitely added to the overall narrative.
Tristan (reformed player, bit oblivious) and Etan ( lifelong royal bookworm, also oblivious) are infuriating in the best possible ways. They love each other, but they find ways to not communicate, and then miscommunicate, both obvious and not-so-much, as the story progresses. It should be off-putting, how seriously bad they are at just talking to each other already, or reading emotional expressions, or body language, or gentle and not so gentle hints from friends and family, but somehow, it really isn’t. The angst builds, ebbs, builds again and somehow the ride is totally worth it. There’s plenty of drama-- marriage to someone else, a baby, a horrible family, a kidnapping-- and by the time everyone makes it relatively unscathed to the end you know that they’ve really earned that HEA. Also, there’s just enough foreshadowing around larger dramas to come for the kingdom to make you want to reach for the next book.
I received an ARC of this book and voluntarily composed an unbiased review
Tristan (reformed player, bit oblivious) and Etan ( lifelong royal bookworm, also oblivious) are infuriating in the best possible ways. They love each other, but they find ways to not communicate, and then miscommunicate, both obvious and not-so-much, as the story progresses. It should be off-putting, how seriously bad they are at just talking to each other already, or reading emotional expressions, or body language, or gentle and not so gentle hints from friends and family, but somehow, it really isn’t. The angst builds, ebbs, builds again and somehow the ride is totally worth it. There’s plenty of drama-- marriage to someone else, a baby, a horrible family, a kidnapping-- and by the time everyone makes it relatively unscathed to the end you know that they’ve really earned that HEA. Also, there’s just enough foreshadowing around larger dramas to come for the kingdom to make you want to reach for the next book.
I received an ARC of this book and voluntarily composed an unbiased review
April 29, 2024
Tristan and Etan get their story in this book. Etan is the cousin of the prince of Tournai and he has had strong feelings for Tristan since he met him. Tristan is a lifelong close friend of the prince's consort and so he has crossed paths with Etan at many functions. As one point, the two men were drawing close to each other and Etan had hopes for something more. However, Tristan's father unexpected became terminal and a last request was that Tristan marry a woman and produce an heir. Tristan complied in his grief, although he is only attracted to men. This devastated Etan and he withdrew his contact to heal his heart.
Now, sadly, Tristan's wife has died in childbirth leaving a beautiful infant girl. Etan still wants to guard his heart, but the friend circle is drawing around Tristan to support him and Etan realizes he still cares for Tristan. Can these two men find their way to love despite the surrounding grief, dangers, life changes, and hurt? This book also features elements of a larger mystery as to what is behind the various threats against Tournai's sovereignty. It has updates on various other characters in this world, a supportive friends group, irresistible passion, and beautiful forever love.
Now, sadly, Tristan's wife has died in childbirth leaving a beautiful infant girl. Etan still wants to guard his heart, but the friend circle is drawing around Tristan to support him and Etan realizes he still cares for Tristan. Can these two men find their way to love despite the surrounding grief, dangers, life changes, and hurt? This book also features elements of a larger mystery as to what is behind the various threats against Tournai's sovereignty. It has updates on various other characters in this world, a supportive friends group, irresistible passion, and beautiful forever love.
July 21, 2020
The Scholar's Heart is the third installment of the series, but it can be read as a stand- alone .
I personally haven't read the previous ones, which wasn't a problem, besides the fact I wish I knew more about Philip.
And he was a central figure in the first book.
Anyway- both main leads here, Etan and Tristan are very interesting. Likable, especially Etan.
The progression of the romance was...Well, I don't even know- strange?
The sex scenes were not fade to black, but it was more like- a very detailed description of them getting to it, kissing and touching.
And then - they're lying breathless next to each other .Like- we have an en end-to-end scene, then the middle of it was just cut off and we have a beginning, an ending and a hole in the middle.
Enough with the romance.
I found the story overall lacking. I was waiting for an actual conflict for good 40% of the book. I was hoping to see more fantasy, and not just be told this is a fantasy book.
I really, really wish I could give it more stars, because I really loved the Author's style and the story started so well. And then , just ...
*Copy generously provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
I personally haven't read the previous ones, which wasn't a problem, besides the fact I wish I knew more about Philip.
And he was a central figure in the first book.
Anyway- both main leads here, Etan and Tristan are very interesting. Likable, especially Etan.
The progression of the romance was...Well, I don't even know- strange?
The sex scenes were not fade to black, but it was more like- a very detailed description of them getting to it, kissing and touching.
And then - they're lying breathless next to each other .Like- we have an en end-to-end scene, then the middle of it was just cut off and we have a beginning, an ending and a hole in the middle.
Enough with the romance.
I found the story overall lacking. I was waiting for an actual conflict for good 40% of the book. I was hoping to see more fantasy, and not just be told this is a fantasy book.
I really, really wish I could give it more stars, because I really loved the Author's style and the story started so well. And then , just ...
*Copy generously provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
March 14, 2018
Rating: 3 stars
I wanted to like this book more than I did. I really liked Etan from the previous books and was looking forward to reading his story. Unfortunately, this book did not live up to my expectations. I found it extremely tedious. Etan bothered me greatly. I know he had been hurt, but I wanted him to step up and fight for the man of his dreams and that never really happened. Tristan was just plan clueless for most of the book and that bothered me also.
Then there was the issue with Tristan’s family. His mother was just so over the top I wanted Trisan to put his foot down with her way sooner than he did. Also, I don’t feel like we got total resolution to all the events in the story. I’m assuming they will be address in future installments. The only bright spot in the book for me was reading about Amory and Philip. I could read about them and their child all day and not get tired of it.
Overall, the book was just okay. I liked it enough to finish it but wasn’t my favorite in the series by any means.
I wanted to like this book more than I did. I really liked Etan from the previous books and was looking forward to reading his story. Unfortunately, this book did not live up to my expectations. I found it extremely tedious. Etan bothered me greatly. I know he had been hurt, but I wanted him to step up and fight for the man of his dreams and that never really happened. Tristan was just plan clueless for most of the book and that bothered me also.
Then there was the issue with Tristan’s family. His mother was just so over the top I wanted Trisan to put his foot down with her way sooner than he did. Also, I don’t feel like we got total resolution to all the events in the story. I’m assuming they will be address in future installments. The only bright spot in the book for me was reading about Amory and Philip. I could read about them and their child all day and not get tired of it.
Overall, the book was just okay. I liked it enough to finish it but wasn’t my favorite in the series by any means.
July 11, 2020
After reading the first two installments, I was definitely excited to finally read Tristan and Etan's story. After Tristan watched his best friend get married and start a family, I desperately wanted him to also find a happy ending and read on about his friendship with Etan. I don't want to spoil too much in my review, but I found myself disappointed in a lot of the events leading up to his ending.
Having Tristan marry, have a child and become a widower just didn't sit right with me. I wanted him to fight for his happiness and to not settle, even for a dying parents wish. I also felt like there was a lack of communication between Tristan and Etan when there didn't need to be. They do eventually communicate with one another on their true feelings, but it is sort of a forced conversation.
Overall, I did like that the author touched more on the magic and shape shifting in this book in comparison to the other books. It was a nice summer read though so I would recommend it to anyone who has started this series.
Having Tristan marry, have a child and become a widower just didn't sit right with me. I wanted him to fight for his happiness and to not settle, even for a dying parents wish. I also felt like there was a lack of communication between Tristan and Etan when there didn't need to be. They do eventually communicate with one another on their true feelings, but it is sort of a forced conversation.
Overall, I did like that the author touched more on the magic and shape shifting in this book in comparison to the other books. It was a nice summer read though so I would recommend it to anyone who has started this series.
July 15, 2020
A happily ever after romance.
This is a story based around two men who are in love with each other- Etan and Tristan. Within this world love between two people of the same sex is not disproved of and men can , with magical support, have children. In this story all of the main couples of note are gay and within secure relationships.
The main thread of the storyline is around Etans and Tristans love story, with some time devoted to a kidnapping and use of magic.
From a personal viewpoint I was really pleased to follow a relationship between men. However, the women in the story are all determinedly against a child being bought up by their father (any father) and resort to kidnap in order to carry the day. The Mother , always Mother, and sister are almost grotesqueries in their insensitivity.
With such an interesting dynamic I think I would say- could’ve been better.
Not for you if you like layered and detailed plotting. Great as a quick read!
This is a story based around two men who are in love with each other- Etan and Tristan. Within this world love between two people of the same sex is not disproved of and men can , with magical support, have children. In this story all of the main couples of note are gay and within secure relationships.
The main thread of the storyline is around Etans and Tristans love story, with some time devoted to a kidnapping and use of magic.
From a personal viewpoint I was really pleased to follow a relationship between men. However, the women in the story are all determinedly against a child being bought up by their father (any father) and resort to kidnap in order to carry the day. The Mother , always Mother, and sister are almost grotesqueries in their insensitivity.
With such an interesting dynamic I think I would say- could’ve been better.
Not for you if you like layered and detailed plotting. Great as a quick read!
July 11, 2020
Etan loves Tristan and is devastated when Tristan marries someone else. He always thought they would eventually be together. When Tristan’s wife dies in childbirth, Etan once again has a spark of hope.
The book moved at a slow pace. Their feelings for each other progressed slowly because of a lack of communication. Their story got more interesting when the main plot point kicked in. Interesting side characters helped the book.
Good writing kept me interested. The magic that people possessed could of been more explained I think. I haven’t read the other books in the series so possibly I’m missing some information. However, I think this book works okay as a standalone.
This book was provided by the author via IndiGo Marketing & Design in exchange for an honest review. Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
The book moved at a slow pace. Their feelings for each other progressed slowly because of a lack of communication. Their story got more interesting when the main plot point kicked in. Interesting side characters helped the book.
Good writing kept me interested. The magic that people possessed could of been more explained I think. I haven’t read the other books in the series so possibly I’m missing some information. However, I think this book works okay as a standalone.
This book was provided by the author via IndiGo Marketing & Design in exchange for an honest review. Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
July 27, 2020
This is a great third addition to the highly engaging Chronicles of Tournai series. Etan and Tristan were wonderful characters and I absolutely loved watching them grab hold of their second chance to be together. Loss, family pressure, and danger all combine to make for a page-turning story in a series I just can't get enough of.
*I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by NetGalley*
*I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by NetGalley*
July 21, 2020
It's good ending to the this series that I enjoyed.
The plot is fast paced and full of twists and turns, the characters and the dynamic of the relationship are interesting, the world building is well done.
I recommend it.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
The plot is fast paced and full of twists and turns, the characters and the dynamic of the relationship are interesting, the world building is well done.
I recommend it.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
September 20, 2020
I enjoyed this installment much more than the first book in the series, but many of the same issues persist. The writing is flat and often feels more like a fanfiction than a published work, but it's not unreadable or anything. The conflicts are fairly simple and predictable but it's good for a light read.
November 2, 2023
The background story to this series is heating up.
Here in book three, the author seems to have found balance with the background story and the romance. This book moved along at a good pace, and the author is expanding both the world and the story. Things are getting interesting.
Here in book three, the author seems to have found balance with the background story and the romance. This book moved along at a good pace, and the author is expanding both the world and the story. Things are getting interesting.
June 8, 2017
3.75 Stars
July 17, 2020
4.5
Review soon
Review soon
February 1, 2017
Possibly my favorite of the series. So enjoyed Etan and Tristan's finding their happy ending!
June 6, 2016
A copy of this book was provided for a fair and honest review through Love Bytes Same Sex Book Reviews.
I have been looking forward to Etan and Tristan’s book ever since I finished The Artist’s Masquerade. This is a classic tale of friends to lovers where one of the friends is in love with the other and the second is blissfully unaware. Tristian is so totally unaware that he spends the first half of the book confused and not understanding the actions of his best friend.
Etan is totally and completely in love with Tristan and just when he believes that maybe Tristan feels the same, Tristan announces that he is getting married. To a woman! He feels he must bow to family pressure to marry and produce an heir. This leaves Etan completely devastated. To try and recover from his hurt he pulls away from Tristan as much as he can considering their close family and friendship ties.
When tragedy leaves Tristan with an infant daughter, everyone rallies around him to lend their support. This brings Etan closer to Tristan once more and he finds him hard to resist. Tristan has missed his friend and longs for them to be close again.
As the two dance ever closer and closer together, revelations and emotions bring their relationship to a crossroads. Can Etan trust Tristan’s declarations or should he pull back to protect himself? The kidnapping of Tristan’s daughter changes everything as everyone pulls together to search for the child and support Tristan.
Etan is one of my favourite characters in the series. He is so terribly hurt by Tristan’s actions, but he does not become bitter. And Tristan is so clueless that it is impossible to blame him for his actions. The full cast in prominent in this story as with the other books in the series. The fact that Etan is the cousin to the Prince and that Tristan is the best friend to the Consort keeps the storyline tight.
I love how the paranormal aspect is woven throughout this series. It is done in a casual kind of way that makes it stunning when it launches to the forefront of the story. Overall I am very pleased with this addition to the series and am looking forward to where it goes next. Tristan’s brother perhaps?
I have been looking forward to Etan and Tristan’s book ever since I finished The Artist’s Masquerade. This is a classic tale of friends to lovers where one of the friends is in love with the other and the second is blissfully unaware. Tristian is so totally unaware that he spends the first half of the book confused and not understanding the actions of his best friend.
Etan is totally and completely in love with Tristan and just when he believes that maybe Tristan feels the same, Tristan announces that he is getting married. To a woman! He feels he must bow to family pressure to marry and produce an heir. This leaves Etan completely devastated. To try and recover from his hurt he pulls away from Tristan as much as he can considering their close family and friendship ties.
When tragedy leaves Tristan with an infant daughter, everyone rallies around him to lend their support. This brings Etan closer to Tristan once more and he finds him hard to resist. Tristan has missed his friend and longs for them to be close again.
As the two dance ever closer and closer together, revelations and emotions bring their relationship to a crossroads. Can Etan trust Tristan’s declarations or should he pull back to protect himself? The kidnapping of Tristan’s daughter changes everything as everyone pulls together to search for the child and support Tristan.
Etan is one of my favourite characters in the series. He is so terribly hurt by Tristan’s actions, but he does not become bitter. And Tristan is so clueless that it is impossible to blame him for his actions. The full cast in prominent in this story as with the other books in the series. The fact that Etan is the cousin to the Prince and that Tristan is the best friend to the Consort keeps the storyline tight.
I love how the paranormal aspect is woven throughout this series. It is done in a casual kind of way that makes it stunning when it launches to the forefront of the story. Overall I am very pleased with this addition to the series and am looking forward to where it goes next. Tristan’s brother perhaps?
November 18, 2016
The Scholar’s Heart
is a tale of fantasy and a love story that turns into love. The prologue sets the pace for Etan’s and Tristan’s relationship. Our first look at how they interact showed us how much they meant to each other, even when they took the other for granted.
By the start of the actual story, Etan is heartbroken, and Tristan walks the line between loving his infant daughter and mourning his wife. It’s this event that brings Etan back into Tristan’s life and rekindles their relationship after almost a year apart. Their easy banter and camaraderie came back with ease.
After several awkward meetings and tribulations, the MCs agreed to explore their desires. Then, they fight their feelings for each other. Etan’s trying to figure out if getting his heart broken one more time is worth it, and Tristan has to fight his mother’s insistence to remarry and have more kids.
The author did an excellent job getting the reader to be part of the events surrounding Ethan and Tristan. I didn’t read the previous two books in this series and didn’t miss any important element. The main characters in book #1 & #2 are an integral part of this book, but we get enough information to know who they are and how they got together without getting spoilers from their full stories. The reader would only need to read them to satiate their curiosity.
Complete review at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words.
ARC provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
By the start of the actual story, Etan is heartbroken, and Tristan walks the line between loving his infant daughter and mourning his wife. It’s this event that brings Etan back into Tristan’s life and rekindles their relationship after almost a year apart. Their easy banter and camaraderie came back with ease.
After several awkward meetings and tribulations, the MCs agreed to explore their desires. Then, they fight their feelings for each other. Etan’s trying to figure out if getting his heart broken one more time is worth it, and Tristan has to fight his mother’s insistence to remarry and have more kids.
The author did an excellent job getting the reader to be part of the events surrounding Ethan and Tristan. I didn’t read the previous two books in this series and didn’t miss any important element. The main characters in book #1 & #2 are an integral part of this book, but we get enough information to know who they are and how they got together without getting spoilers from their full stories. The reader would only need to read them to satiate their curiosity.
Complete review at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words.
ARC provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
July 12, 2016
I can't say I liked this one too much. It was a decent read, not poorly written or anything, but the plot killed me. 75% of the book was Etan and Tristan tiptoeing round each other. And then the whole plot with figuring out who stole the baby was poorly done as well.
I think the only thing I can say that worked was the whole romance between Etan and Tristan. It sucked that Tristan married and his and Etan's relationship suffered, but I liked that there was drama. Everything else surrounding the story that helped supposedly drive the relationship plot was just weak. I can't say this is my favorite of the series. I liked seeing precious characters, but I just couldn't get into this one.
I think the only thing I can say that worked was the whole romance between Etan and Tristan. It sucked that Tristan married and his and Etan's relationship suffered, but I liked that there was drama. Everything else surrounding the story that helped supposedly drive the relationship plot was just weak. I can't say this is my favorite of the series. I liked seeing precious characters, but I just couldn't get into this one.
November 15, 2016
This title was originally reviewed for Prism Book Alliance®
Anyone who read books 1 and/or 2 of the Tales of Tournai was probably eagerly awaiting both Tristan's story and Etan's story. The fact that they are one in the same will probably come as no surprise. Regardless of whether you wanted these two together at the start of the story, but they time they finally make it official you will hopefully be as in love with these two as I am.
For complete Review see http://www.prismbookalliance.com/?p=5...
October 16, 2022
3.5, Finished my oldest netgalley ARC! I was worried when I realized this was actually a later title in a series but while reading it, i realized that each book is set in the same world but follows diff couples. A cute read but I felt it focused too much on things like family and children, though I loved the pushback on traditional gender roles. Some of the magic was also interesting (mpreg) and I was really curious about learning more (the MCs specifically). Typical romance tropes with a resolution that didn't feel came from the characters but more from circumstances
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