saluki's review against another edition
5.0
After all the internal tension, external political struggles, and constant threats, Damianos and Laurent's story comes to an exceptional conclusion. There were a few plot points that seemed implausible but I'm that invested in these characters that I wasn't so bothered.
Sort of spoilery for anyone who hasn't read the first two books...
There are many things I loved about this trilogy. First is the love story. Hands down. Damianos and Laurent are polar opposite characters, as well as heirs to opposing kingdoms, which ensures their relationship is fraught with exquisite tension. Second, all the mind-games and manipulation employed by Laurent as well as his uncle. Deliciously devious, intelligent battles of wit. Third, Damianos' consistent noble and honourable ideals and his slow realisation that many think along different paths, yet he maintains his sense of justice and fairness. Fourth, that Pacat doesn't shy away from difficult topics such as slavery, non-consensual sex, and abuses of power. Fifth, that same-sex relationships are the norm in this world. Sixth, the fast pace and action rarely dropped. Seventh... I'd better stop because then I'd start getting crazy spoilery.
Simply, I love these characters who get put through the proverbial wringer far more than most. And the love story is heartfelt. I didn't want to finish!
Sort of spoilery for anyone who hasn't read the first two books...
There are many things I loved about this trilogy. First is the love story. Hands down. Damianos and Laurent are polar opposite characters, as well as heirs to opposing kingdoms, which ensures their relationship is fraught with exquisite tension. Second, all the mind-games and manipulation employed by Laurent as well as his uncle. Deliciously devious, intelligent battles of wit. Third, Damianos' consistent noble and honourable ideals and his slow realisation that many think along different paths, yet he maintains his sense of justice and fairness. Fourth, that Pacat doesn't shy away from difficult topics such as slavery, non-consensual sex, and abuses of power. Fifth, that same-sex relationships are the norm in this world. Sixth, the fast pace and action rarely dropped. Seventh... I'd better stop because then I'd start getting crazy spoilery.
Simply, I love these characters who get put through the proverbial wringer far more than most. And the love story is heartfelt. I didn't want to finish!
cas_the_second's review against another edition
challenging
emotional
funny
hopeful
mysterious
reflective
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
mimmie_massie's review against another edition
5.0
What the hell did I just read? First of all the regent,I cannot believe him like what????Has he no bounds?
Second,aren't Damen and Laurent so sweet
Second,aren't Damen and Laurent so sweet
toodlebean's review against another edition
4.0
This is what the first two books should have been. Pacat finally added some suspense and character development to her trilogy. It's such a shame that it took two books to set up her story because I enjoyed this one so much. I actually found myself looking forward to reading ahead, I couldn't wait to finish work so I could devour the last 3 chapters. I wasn't expecting to get as invested as I did in this book given my reviews of the first two of the series.
gwens's review against another edition
4.0
So, is Laurent still looking for a new slave? I volunteer.
zeraphyr's review against another edition
dark
emotional
funny
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
pusztaigyongyi's review against another edition
dark
emotional
funny
reflective
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.5
maiamatson's review against another edition
4.0
Not sure how I feel about the end. But as far as a hot and steamy romance read goes that contains controversial topics it's a good time.