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Royal Houses #2
House of Shadows
Kerrigan Argon, a half-human, half-Fae, has joined the Dragon Society against almost everyone’s wishes.
A year of training is required with her dragon.
But first she must travel with the dark Fae prince, Fordham Ollivier, back to his home in the House of Shadows. Nothing but slavery and death has ever awaited a half-Fae in their halls.
Yet something is wrong within their wicked world. A thousand year old spell is weakening. Cracks forming in the foundation. And Kerrigan may just be their ruin or their salvation.
A year of training is required with her dragon.
But first she must travel with the dark Fae prince, Fordham Ollivier, back to his home in the House of Shadows. Nothing but slavery and death has ever awaited a half-Fae in their halls.
Yet something is wrong within their wicked world. A thousand year old spell is weakening. Cracks forming in the foundation. And Kerrigan may just be their ruin or their salvation.
450 pages, Paperback
Published October 19, 2021
About the author
K.A. Linde
90 books9,665 followersK.A. Linde is the USA Today bestselling author of the Avoiding Series, Wrights, and more than thirty other novels. She has a Masters degree in political science from the University of Georgia, was the head campaign worker for the 2012 presidential campaign at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and served as the head coach of the Duke University dance team. She loves reading fantasy novels, traveling to far-off destinations, and dancing in her spare time.
She currently lives in Lubbock, Texas, with her husband, son, and super-adorable puppy.
Visit her online at www.kalinde.com and on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @authorkalinde.
Join her newsletter at www.kalinde.com/subscribe for exclusive content, free books, and giveaways every month.
She currently lives in Lubbock, Texas, with her husband, son, and super-adorable puppy.
Visit her online at www.kalinde.com and on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @authorkalinde.
Join her newsletter at www.kalinde.com/subscribe for exclusive content, free books, and giveaways every month.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
November 13, 2021
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Narrated by Amy McFadden, 🎧︎📚House of Shadows by K. A Linde is the second book in the Royal House series. On completion of the House of Dragons, I was eager to learn what new adventures awaited Kerrigan and her friends. Action, suspense, intrigue, romance and magic awaits you, so grab your earbuds an prepare for an awesome ride.
🎧︎📚House of Shadows picked up from where House of Dragons left off. I had a blast with this installment, which came as no surprise. Kerrigan has defied the odds. Enrolled in The Society's training program, Kerrigan is now on her way to becoming a full fledged member. However, she still faces prejudices as not all members of The Society welcomed her. This meant she needed to work extra hard to prove her admittance to the training program was not a fluke. Her being a member of The Society place her in the perfect position in becoming an advocate for half faes. Not only did she have to deal with prejudice, there was also the issue of corruption within The Society. Someone among the group was responsible for the attacks against the half faes and humans.
Kerrigan's faces many challenges in her to journey to becoming a full fledge member of The Society, but has expected she never backed down. She faced each one head on. Those she could not conquer directly, she overcame through other means. During the course of her training she made new discoveries about her magical abilities. Discoveries, which provides aid in some of the challenges she faced.
House of Dragons hinted at a possible romance between Kerrigan and Fordham. Things between them heated up in this installment. However, complications both old and new placed a damper on the budding romance.
While I loved most of the characters , there were some I wished would disappear for good. Their bigotry and sense of entitlement grated on my nerves. Frankly, I found it hard to drum up sympathy for any of them, even for the one who had been framed.
The story featured several shocking revelations, but the ones at the end proved to be the biggest shocker of all. These revelations left me for the next book in the series.
NARRATION
Amy McFadden continues to narrate this awesome series. She brought the story and each of the characters to life through her narration. Her brilliant performance, which enhanced the listening experience, shows why she is the perfect narrator for this series.
This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading
April 30, 2023
4.25 Stars / 2.5 Steam Fans
Picks up where we left off in Book 1 where Kerrigan has won a spot in an academy setting. She is also dealing with her special magic and all that entails. There are mystery and political aspects that are continually explored in this section of the world. More is revealed and new villains emerged. I'm looking forward to seeing how things play out in book 3.
CW: Political Aspects, Real Life Parallels, Racism, Classism, Betrayal, Conspiracy, Discrimination
Video review available in Week 17: Apr 23 – Apr 29, 2023, weekly book reviews on Steph's Romance Book Talk (https://www.youtube.com/@stephsromanc...)
Picks up where we left off in Book 1 where Kerrigan has won a spot in an academy setting. She is also dealing with her special magic and all that entails. There are mystery and political aspects that are continually explored in this section of the world. More is revealed and new villains emerged. I'm looking forward to seeing how things play out in book 3.
CW: Political Aspects, Real Life Parallels, Racism, Classism, Betrayal, Conspiracy, Discrimination
Video review available in Week 17: Apr 23 – Apr 29, 2023, weekly book reviews on Steph's Romance Book Talk (https://www.youtube.com/@stephsromanc...)
October 19, 2021
4 stars!!
House of Shadows throws us back in the world of magic, mystery, mayhem, and murder. It picks up from the end of House of Dragons and we get more of everything we love in YA fantasy.
After winning the tournament, Kerrigan now must complete the training for her and her dragon if she wants to be a member of the society. There are five total trainees and not all may make it through the rigorous tasks ahead. They will be tested like never before and it is stressful. I love the bonds that form between Kerrigan and the other trainees and I was rooting for them all.
Kerrigan and Ford are back and better than ever. Their relationship progresses but there are still things standing in their way. I know they would be perfect for each other and they even give us some heat *finally* but just when I thought things were good another roadblock pulls them apart. It is frustrating to say the least and though I get it, I am not happy about it. I need to see these two together especially since Ford really turned up the swoon!!
Kerrigan also has to face the House of Shadows, a magical wall, and the Red Masks who want to wipe out everyone who is not full-fae. Her plate is obviously full but she is awesome and has proved time and tie again that she can persevere when she puts her mind and heart into things.
We get new friends and new foes and everything isn’t as it seems. I love the twists and turns the story takes and how things are unfolding. Kerrigan and the other trainees get to use their powers because there is definitely action in the installment. From battles and riots to society meetings and balls, they are thrown into things that are unfamiliar and they have to learn fast. It’s exciting and nerve-racking at times and I couldn’t put it down when the action picked up.
The mystery is intriguing and I was desperate to see how the story would go. We do get answers at the very end and, OMG, I am left desperate for the next book. I need to see how things will play out not only with the romance but with the mastermind behind the threat to Kerrigan and the whole Society.
Overall, House of Shadows adds so much to this entertaining fantasy series and I can’t ways for more!! I loved it!
*ARC generously provided by the author and Wildfire Marketing Solutions*
House of Shadows throws us back in the world of magic, mystery, mayhem, and murder. It picks up from the end of House of Dragons and we get more of everything we love in YA fantasy.
After winning the tournament, Kerrigan now must complete the training for her and her dragon if she wants to be a member of the society. There are five total trainees and not all may make it through the rigorous tasks ahead. They will be tested like never before and it is stressful. I love the bonds that form between Kerrigan and the other trainees and I was rooting for them all.
Kerrigan and Ford are back and better than ever. Their relationship progresses but there are still things standing in their way. I know they would be perfect for each other and they even give us some heat *finally* but just when I thought things were good another roadblock pulls them apart. It is frustrating to say the least and though I get it, I am not happy about it. I need to see these two together especially since Ford really turned up the swoon!!
"You shouldn't stay hidden. You can't be contained, and no one should try to force you. Wild and untamed are the only ways in which you should exist."
Kerrigan also has to face the House of Shadows, a magical wall, and the Red Masks who want to wipe out everyone who is not full-fae. Her plate is obviously full but she is awesome and has proved time and tie again that she can persevere when she puts her mind and heart into things.
We get new friends and new foes and everything isn’t as it seems. I love the twists and turns the story takes and how things are unfolding. Kerrigan and the other trainees get to use their powers because there is definitely action in the installment. From battles and riots to society meetings and balls, they are thrown into things that are unfamiliar and they have to learn fast. It’s exciting and nerve-racking at times and I couldn’t put it down when the action picked up.
The mystery is intriguing and I was desperate to see how the story would go. We do get answers at the very end and, OMG, I am left desperate for the next book. I need to see how things will play out not only with the romance but with the mastermind behind the threat to Kerrigan and the whole Society.
Overall, House of Shadows adds so much to this entertaining fantasy series and I can’t ways for more!! I loved it!
*ARC generously provided by the author and Wildfire Marketing Solutions*
September 3, 2021
YES! So happy to be back in the Royal Houses world again. Ford has my heart and I never, ever want it back. Add in the fierce Kerrigan in all her half-human, half-fae awesomeness, dragon training, the House of Shadows, and all of the mystery and destruction that comes with it, I'm hooked! Can't wait for the next one.
December 13, 2021
I really enjoyed the first novel in this series and very disappointed with this one. I had hopes that it would be a good book as well, but it is not.
The characters are just not well done, very little connection to them. The relationships do not feel as though they go together. I don't care or like any of the characters. A lot of the story makes no sense in how the author wrote it (it's errors in the writing, not intentional storyline) There is no flow to the story, it jumps around and is rushed. The magic system also does not make a whole lot of sense and isn't written well.
Overall it's mediocre writing at best. There was potential, but it was lost in this book. Authors REALLY need to step up their writing game when it comes to the Fantasy genre. There are many extremely well written books in the fantasy genre and this isn't one of them.
The characters are just not well done, very little connection to them. The relationships do not feel as though they go together. I don't care or like any of the characters. A lot of the story makes no sense in how the author wrote it (it's errors in the writing, not intentional storyline) There is no flow to the story, it jumps around and is rushed. The magic system also does not make a whole lot of sense and isn't written well.
Overall it's mediocre writing at best. There was potential, but it was lost in this book. Authors REALLY need to step up their writing game when it comes to the Fantasy genre. There are many extremely well written books in the fantasy genre and this isn't one of them.
January 26, 2023
5 ADDICTION STARS!! I am so addicted to Kerrigan and Fordham's story....I NEED MORE. What a ride it has been....my teeth hurt from grinding them through their story. If you haven't started this series, do it now.
April 9, 2022
1.5 stars rounded up to 2.
It just felt that the characters kept making bad decision after bad decision and the plot felt a bit too over the place.
It just felt that the characters kept making bad decision after bad decision and the plot felt a bit too over the place.
October 17, 2021
I received a free copy of this title to read and review for Wicked Reads
House of Shadows is the second installment in the Royal Houses series. Since it is a continuation in an epic fantasy series, book one, House of Dragons, must be read first to avoid confusion and to understand the complex world building.
Since it had been a long time since I read the debut, I was fearful I would be confused at the start of House of Shadows, but KA Linde flawlessly delivered cues to clue the reader in without massive amounts of info dumps, leading with a smooth transition from one book to the next as if ending one chapter and beginning another.
Kerrigan was abandoned at the House of Dragons when she was a child. While she was under the impression she was removed by her father due to her half-fae lineage, it was to keep her safe under the protection of the mountain.
After the events of the previous installment, which I won't highlight to avoid those reading this review before deciding to start the series, Kerrigan is training to become a full-fledged member of the society. Combat, history, and bonding with her dragon, while being targeted by Society members for not being full fae, she has a large target on her back.
Kerrigan is a strong heroine. She's as gifted as she is flawed. Nothing comes easy to her, trying with all her might to succeed even when she fails. She doesn't necessarily take things in stride, but that is what makes her feel more realistically human. Bridging the gap between all social classes, royals, fae, half-fae, human, and destitute human, Kerrigan becomes a symbol of hope.
House of Shadows is an adventure. While fast-paced, it was a long, complex journey filled with politics, battles, push-pull romance between enemies turned lovers, smoldering into a slow burn with the whisper of a triangle (quadrangle?) as Kerrigan is torn between what she wants, what she needs, what would be for the good of her people, and what would be good for the people she represents, not only in the Society or her royal lineage but for those she sees as her people.
Everyone fighting each other, inter-fighting and species fighting, I won't get into the overall plot, as that is something best dove into blindly. What I will say is that Linde is a master of angst. Not only is our Dark Prince a persnickety sort, stoic with a hot and cold personality, Kerrigan is dealing with the King of the dregs, feelings from her teen years quite possibly rearing their ugly head as he becomes protector instead of negotiator... then the royal line comes in to create mischief, dragging along a betrothal of the lost princess, one in which who needs her to be queen to his future king.
It's a year long wait, which I will be anticipating the next installment, as it promises to deliver more of which readers voraciously read in the first and second installments. One thing I know not to fear is the seamless transition from one book to the next, no need to reread, but I will say the prospect is temping.
My guilty pleasure, sentient beings in a series, where they take on a life of their own. Be it an inner beast, a gargoyle or a pixie, or a sarcastic dragon partner. The relationship Kerrigan develops with her dragon, the witty repartee, the teasing, the little snips and digs, it brings life to a creature that is generally just on the pages.
Highly recommended to fans of both adult and young adult epic fantasy. House of Shadows is sure to please the masses.
House of Shadows is the second installment in the Royal Houses series. Since it is a continuation in an epic fantasy series, book one, House of Dragons, must be read first to avoid confusion and to understand the complex world building.
Since it had been a long time since I read the debut, I was fearful I would be confused at the start of House of Shadows, but KA Linde flawlessly delivered cues to clue the reader in without massive amounts of info dumps, leading with a smooth transition from one book to the next as if ending one chapter and beginning another.
Kerrigan was abandoned at the House of Dragons when she was a child. While she was under the impression she was removed by her father due to her half-fae lineage, it was to keep her safe under the protection of the mountain.
After the events of the previous installment, which I won't highlight to avoid those reading this review before deciding to start the series, Kerrigan is training to become a full-fledged member of the society. Combat, history, and bonding with her dragon, while being targeted by Society members for not being full fae, she has a large target on her back.
Kerrigan is a strong heroine. She's as gifted as she is flawed. Nothing comes easy to her, trying with all her might to succeed even when she fails. She doesn't necessarily take things in stride, but that is what makes her feel more realistically human. Bridging the gap between all social classes, royals, fae, half-fae, human, and destitute human, Kerrigan becomes a symbol of hope.
House of Shadows is an adventure. While fast-paced, it was a long, complex journey filled with politics, battles, push-pull romance between enemies turned lovers, smoldering into a slow burn with the whisper of a triangle (quadrangle?) as Kerrigan is torn between what she wants, what she needs, what would be for the good of her people, and what would be good for the people she represents, not only in the Society or her royal lineage but for those she sees as her people.
Everyone fighting each other, inter-fighting and species fighting, I won't get into the overall plot, as that is something best dove into blindly. What I will say is that Linde is a master of angst. Not only is our Dark Prince a persnickety sort, stoic with a hot and cold personality, Kerrigan is dealing with the King of the dregs, feelings from her teen years quite possibly rearing their ugly head as he becomes protector instead of negotiator... then the royal line comes in to create mischief, dragging along a betrothal of the lost princess, one in which who needs her to be queen to his future king.
It's a year long wait, which I will be anticipating the next installment, as it promises to deliver more of which readers voraciously read in the first and second installments. One thing I know not to fear is the seamless transition from one book to the next, no need to reread, but I will say the prospect is temping.
My guilty pleasure, sentient beings in a series, where they take on a life of their own. Be it an inner beast, a gargoyle or a pixie, or a sarcastic dragon partner. The relationship Kerrigan develops with her dragon, the witty repartee, the teasing, the little snips and digs, it brings life to a creature that is generally just on the pages.
Highly recommended to fans of both adult and young adult epic fantasy. House of Shadows is sure to please the masses.
October 20, 2021
After reading House of Dragons, I can easily say that The Royal Houses series has earned its place on my favorite series list!! As soon as I finished reading book #1 I jumped straight in to book #2 House of Shadows. I enjoyed reading "House of Dragons", but this one is even better!!! Kerrigan journey continues on, she thought her life was difficult but now it's about to get a whole lot more complicated. A touch of mystery, action and suspense; the power of creating friendships with the unlikeliest people, and using your voice to fight back especially for those who are afraid to speak up. Kerrigan lived in the shadows for most of her life, and now, it's her time to be in the spotlight. This might frighten her, but she's strong and Kerrigan faces her fears head on. And let's not forget the romance! Kerrigan's love/personal life is interesting to say the least! I mean, you could say there's a *slight* love triangle or more like Kerrigan who has quite a few people from the opposite sex who are interested in her. However, she can't have a relationship with the person she truly wants to be with.
Kerrigan and Fordham created a great friendship; they connected on a much deeper level. And the chemistry between them is sizzling. But they can't be together, so they settled on being friends. Well... the status of their friendship is interesting, to say the least. I mean, the greenhouse and lake scenes were too steamy. Amongst other things, she's working together with her teammates/friends, and training around the clock while looking for answers that she desperately needs. Phew, Kerrigan sure does have a lot on her plate. My goodness!! The the last few chapters?!!!! I was literally screaming!!!! I mean, it was so unexpected! Especially the cliffhanger! Cannot wait to read House of Curses next year!!!
Navigating through turbulent waters Kerrigan is now a Society ("a ruling class") member and a dragon rider in training; she's the first half-fae to become a member. Leaving the "House of Dragons" a place she spent most of her life; it was her home from the past ten years. She embarks on a new journey, with her companion the Shadow prince she's heading to the "House of Shadows". Its going to be an interesting yet difficult welcoming for both of them. The House of Shadows have a strong disliking towards humans and half-faes, but this won't deter Kerrigan. After all, she can handle anything that is thrown her way. The Dragon riding training tasks are harsh and complicated. But it's crucial to complete and pass each task, hence she needs to do it in order to survive. And on top of this Kerrigan and Fordham are tip toeing around each other, they have a strong connection and dormant chemistry between them but they can't give in to the temptation, or more like he can't. Oh, and let's not forget that Kerrigan is also learning more about her magic/abilities. So many things happening in such little time.
**I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review
Kerrigan and Fordham created a great friendship; they connected on a much deeper level. And the chemistry between them is sizzling. But they can't be together, so they settled on being friends. Well... the status of their friendship is interesting, to say the least. I mean, the greenhouse and lake scenes were too steamy. Amongst other things, she's working together with her teammates/friends, and training around the clock while looking for answers that she desperately needs. Phew, Kerrigan sure does have a lot on her plate. My goodness!! The the last few chapters?!!!! I was literally screaming!!!! I mean, it was so unexpected! Especially the cliffhanger! Cannot wait to read House of Curses next year!!!
Navigating through turbulent waters Kerrigan is now a Society ("a ruling class") member and a dragon rider in training; she's the first half-fae to become a member. Leaving the "House of Dragons" a place she spent most of her life; it was her home from the past ten years. She embarks on a new journey, with her companion the Shadow prince she's heading to the "House of Shadows". Its going to be an interesting yet difficult welcoming for both of them. The House of Shadows have a strong disliking towards humans and half-faes, but this won't deter Kerrigan. After all, she can handle anything that is thrown her way. The Dragon riding training tasks are harsh and complicated. But it's crucial to complete and pass each task, hence she needs to do it in order to survive. And on top of this Kerrigan and Fordham are tip toeing around each other, they have a strong connection and dormant chemistry between them but they can't give in to the temptation, or more like he can't. Oh, and let's not forget that Kerrigan is also learning more about her magic/abilities. So many things happening in such little time.
**I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review
October 26, 2021
This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
Review copy was received from Publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I am really enjoying this Royal Houses series. House of Dragons was first and very exciting and unexpected. I loved the dragons and all the magic aspects in the world building, along with Royal Houses. The Society is sort of a law enforcement organization made up of fae with dragons providing extra abilities to help with protecting the different lands. Kerrigan becomes a trainee even though she is half fae.
There is so much happening in House of Shadows giving a long complex story. Kerrigan is the first to visit in pretty much a thousand years. She connects with the half fae and humans there, who are mostly enslaved by the fae. Kerrigan has dealt with the slurs for nearly all her life. But now she becomes more of advocate since she is now joining the Society as a half fae. The House of Shadows has been hidden from the rest of the world for a thousand years with no one able to leave until Fordham was cast out. Kerrigan can sense the wall and it is tied in with her own magic somehow.
After the visit, the training begins for the new candidates for the Society. It is grueling. Kerrigan faces many challenges, and prejudice. Even in the Society, whose purpose is to provide protection, there is corruption and bias. Kerrigan also has to learn more about her own magic.
The RFA - Rights For All is a protest group trying to support better treatment for half fae and humans. Kerrigan believes in their cause and attends some rallies and supports them. Dozan and Clover are also participants. The Red Masks want to eliminate all half fae and humans and the groups clash at a protest.
Kerrigan is also pursued by three men. Dozan casually pursues her, it seems more for her skills he might utilize. Marsh wants to claim her as a fiance to secure his own title of King and take over her lands. Fordham is the one she loves and he is afraid to give in to loving her as he is cursed. It sometimes feels a bit reverse haram except Kerrigan is only interested in Ford.
Kerrigan works so hard, loves so deeply, has such compassion for all the people. She really is on a tightrope throughout the events. There are some shocking twists along the way and a couple big ones at the end. I enjoyed this so much and look forward to seeing how Kerrigan faces her new challenges.
Narration:
I was glad to have the same narrator continue with the series. I enjoyed the performance and rather different voices for males and females. We get Kerrigan's point of view and she became Kerrigan for me. I was able to listen at my usual 1.5x speed.
Listen to a clip: HERE
COYER # 28 A strong female protagonist.
Review copy was received from Publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I am really enjoying this Royal Houses series. House of Dragons was first and very exciting and unexpected. I loved the dragons and all the magic aspects in the world building, along with Royal Houses. The Society is sort of a law enforcement organization made up of fae with dragons providing extra abilities to help with protecting the different lands. Kerrigan becomes a trainee even though she is half fae.
There is so much happening in House of Shadows giving a long complex story. Kerrigan is the first to visit in pretty much a thousand years. She connects with the half fae and humans there, who are mostly enslaved by the fae. Kerrigan has dealt with the slurs for nearly all her life. But now she becomes more of advocate since she is now joining the Society as a half fae. The House of Shadows has been hidden from the rest of the world for a thousand years with no one able to leave until Fordham was cast out. Kerrigan can sense the wall and it is tied in with her own magic somehow.
After the visit, the training begins for the new candidates for the Society. It is grueling. Kerrigan faces many challenges, and prejudice. Even in the Society, whose purpose is to provide protection, there is corruption and bias. Kerrigan also has to learn more about her own magic.
The RFA - Rights For All is a protest group trying to support better treatment for half fae and humans. Kerrigan believes in their cause and attends some rallies and supports them. Dozan and Clover are also participants. The Red Masks want to eliminate all half fae and humans and the groups clash at a protest.
Kerrigan is also pursued by three men. Dozan casually pursues her, it seems more for her skills he might utilize. Marsh wants to claim her as a fiance to secure his own title of King and take over her lands. Fordham is the one she loves and he is afraid to give in to loving her as he is cursed. It sometimes feels a bit reverse haram except Kerrigan is only interested in Ford.
Kerrigan works so hard, loves so deeply, has such compassion for all the people. She really is on a tightrope throughout the events. There are some shocking twists along the way and a couple big ones at the end. I enjoyed this so much and look forward to seeing how Kerrigan faces her new challenges.
Narration:
I was glad to have the same narrator continue with the series. I enjoyed the performance and rather different voices for males and females. We get Kerrigan's point of view and she became Kerrigan for me. I was able to listen at my usual 1.5x speed.
Listen to a clip: HERE
COYER # 28 A strong female protagonist.
October 19, 2021
House of Shadows, book two in K.A Linde's epic fantasy/paranormal Y/A series Royal Houses and for me a highly anticipated read that did not disappoint.
So at the risk of spoiling things for both book one and two, I'm going to keep this short and sweet.
Kerrigan was everything I thought she'd be and more. She's fearless and sweet and perfectly flawed. Nothing in life has ever come easy to our half fae queen. Torn between two worlds that are both so very different, she is trying to find her balance among all the crazy whist fighting the unknown in every direction. Let me tell you there is never a dull moment.
House of Shadows, just like book one is a intricately woven and at times necessarily long winded story of up hill battles and overcoming the unknown. Its tension filled, suspenseful and surprising. Its frustrating and teasing and even swoony on times. Truth be told its a freaking rollercoaster. The attention to detail is next level and whilst I did find at time it could drag, that did have its purpose in terms of making you feel.
The characters are so depthy and I feel we haven't even scratched the surface. With every chapter a new layer is peeled back and I am left even more intrigued for what else is coming. Obviously Ford is a huge slice of mystery with his hot and cold personality and his devilish good looks. I found myself having a love hate relationship with him and his mood swings but it also added that extra something to the story because the tensions!!!!. Lordy. I cannot.
I am a romance reader and normally the lack of romance for me would be off putting but this story is so well written with so much going on and truly great characters.. I didn't find myself missing it as much as I usually would.
Obviously there is romantic aspects in here but it is very little to my norm. Not a bad thing though here because the author killed it with character and story development.
Now let me tell you... I am tamping about the wait for the next book!!!. This is terrible for me, I am going to be biting at the nail for book three!!!!. AHHHHHHGGGH.
So at the risk of spoiling things for both book one and two, I'm going to keep this short and sweet.
Kerrigan was everything I thought she'd be and more. She's fearless and sweet and perfectly flawed. Nothing in life has ever come easy to our half fae queen. Torn between two worlds that are both so very different, she is trying to find her balance among all the crazy whist fighting the unknown in every direction. Let me tell you there is never a dull moment.
House of Shadows, just like book one is a intricately woven and at times necessarily long winded story of up hill battles and overcoming the unknown. Its tension filled, suspenseful and surprising. Its frustrating and teasing and even swoony on times. Truth be told its a freaking rollercoaster. The attention to detail is next level and whilst I did find at time it could drag, that did have its purpose in terms of making you feel.
The characters are so depthy and I feel we haven't even scratched the surface. With every chapter a new layer is peeled back and I am left even more intrigued for what else is coming. Obviously Ford is a huge slice of mystery with his hot and cold personality and his devilish good looks. I found myself having a love hate relationship with him and his mood swings but it also added that extra something to the story because the tensions!!!!. Lordy. I cannot.
I am a romance reader and normally the lack of romance for me would be off putting but this story is so well written with so much going on and truly great characters.. I didn't find myself missing it as much as I usually would.
Obviously there is romantic aspects in here but it is very little to my norm. Not a bad thing though here because the author killed it with character and story development.
Now let me tell you... I am tamping about the wait for the next book!!!. This is terrible for me, I am going to be biting at the nail for book three!!!!. AHHHHHHGGGH.
October 19, 2021
Linde is absolutely knocking it out of the park with the Royal Houses series and it’s killing me to have to wait so long in between each series. Because I’m so eager to know what’s going to happen. Fast-paced and my goodness, the tension between Kerrigan and Fordham is through the roof!
Book 2 pretty much picks up where the last one ended, not going to lie, since it’s been so long I definitely forgot some things here and there. But as I kept reading, my memory of what happened was coming back. Kerrigan has a rigorous year to get through to officially be a part of the Society. She’s definitely come along way and has faced so much adversity because of what she is. She’s paving the way for her future and there’s quite a bit working against her.
I loved how engaging this story is from beginning to end. I wasn’t expecting all the different POVs, but it was a great insight that seemed necessary to the story. I was getting quite suspicious of people and there’s possibly a few surprises as you get towards the end. Even though we get a ton of questions answered, more will be popping up.
Ah, the romance! It was so nice to see things finally pick up a bit more, but Fordham is still holding on to his curse. It’s quite frustrating because more than anything, I just want them to be together.
There is a little bit of a cliffhanger towards the end, but I’m pretty okay with the way it ended. Kerrigan still has a lot to learn and I’m pretty excited to see her personal journey. We’re going to see a ton of growth with her as we get through the series and I’m eager to see how it all plays out in the end.
Such a great addition to the series, it’s still a little unknown how many books we’ll get. The year-long wait has me a little antsy, but I’m so very much invested.
House of Shadows is not a standalone, House of Dragons must be read first before starting this one.
Book 2 pretty much picks up where the last one ended, not going to lie, since it’s been so long I definitely forgot some things here and there. But as I kept reading, my memory of what happened was coming back. Kerrigan has a rigorous year to get through to officially be a part of the Society. She’s definitely come along way and has faced so much adversity because of what she is. She’s paving the way for her future and there’s quite a bit working against her.
I loved how engaging this story is from beginning to end. I wasn’t expecting all the different POVs, but it was a great insight that seemed necessary to the story. I was getting quite suspicious of people and there’s possibly a few surprises as you get towards the end. Even though we get a ton of questions answered, more will be popping up.
Ah, the romance! It was so nice to see things finally pick up a bit more, but Fordham is still holding on to his curse. It’s quite frustrating because more than anything, I just want them to be together.
There is a little bit of a cliffhanger towards the end, but I’m pretty okay with the way it ended. Kerrigan still has a lot to learn and I’m pretty excited to see her personal journey. We’re going to see a ton of growth with her as we get through the series and I’m eager to see how it all plays out in the end.
Such a great addition to the series, it’s still a little unknown how many books we’ll get. The year-long wait has me a little antsy, but I’m so very much invested.
House of Shadows is not a standalone, House of Dragons must be read first before starting this one.
October 13, 2021
I have been waiting for this book since last October! This book did not disappoint.
It took a bit to remember what happened in the first book but I didn't have trouble delving back into this world.
I enjoyed seeing the House of Shadows. I also enjoyed seeing Kerrigan and Fordham's relationship develop.
I am not a fan of March. Ugh I'm curious to see how that will play out and how Kerrigan can get out of it.
There was so much happening with the wall, training, mysteries of the Red Masks and the Father. It almost felt like too much at times. Like the story was all over the place and nothing was adding up. Deception is everywhere. Definitely some surprising reveals.
The ending though! I had predicted it and once it confirmed my thoughts. I'm dying to the next book next October! I want more!
Overall, I enjoyed the second installment of this series. The story is great for fans of Avatar, ACOTAR, Shadow and Bone, and any other fantasy books. I couldn't put this book down.
It took a bit to remember what happened in the first book but I didn't have trouble delving back into this world.
I enjoyed seeing the House of Shadows. I also enjoyed seeing Kerrigan and Fordham's relationship develop.
I am not a fan of March. Ugh I'm curious to see how that will play out and how Kerrigan can get out of it.
There was so much happening with the wall, training, mysteries of the Red Masks and the Father. It almost felt like too much at times. Like the story was all over the place and nothing was adding up. Deception is everywhere. Definitely some surprising reveals.
The ending though! I had predicted it and once it confirmed my thoughts. I'm dying to the next book next October! I want more!
Overall, I enjoyed the second installment of this series. The story is great for fans of Avatar, ACOTAR, Shadow and Bone, and any other fantasy books. I couldn't put this book down.
March 6, 2024
Okay.
I was SO excited for this next book. The first one was so good and I expected this one to be as well, if not better.
It wasn’t.
The story was there, but the weird POV side character relationship stuff was weird. It wasn’t placed well, and honestly it was unnecessary. The weird love triangle doesn’t really make sense? Like March wasn’t allowed to go to her father’s estate uninvited but then all of a sudden showed up without an invitation?
And there were a TON of spelling and grammar mistakes. At one point it went from third person POV to first person POV then back to third person POV all in the same page. It was bad enough that I almost DNF’d but I loved the first book too much to do that.
I’m really excited to see where Ker and Ford’s relationship goes and will definitely be trying the third book out.
Also THE ENDING! Never saw it coming.
I was SO excited for this next book. The first one was so good and I expected this one to be as well, if not better.
It wasn’t.
The story was there, but the weird POV side character relationship stuff was weird. It wasn’t placed well, and honestly it was unnecessary. The weird love triangle doesn’t really make sense? Like March wasn’t allowed to go to her father’s estate uninvited but then all of a sudden showed up without an invitation?
And there were a TON of spelling and grammar mistakes. At one point it went from third person POV to first person POV then back to third person POV all in the same page. It was bad enough that I almost DNF’d but I loved the first book too much to do that.
I’m really excited to see where Ker and Ford’s relationship goes and will definitely be trying the third book out.
Also THE ENDING! Never saw it coming.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 19, 2021
As soon as i reached the end of House of Dragons I instantly started looking forward to this second installment! I picked this one up as soon as i could and got back into the Royal Houses world! I enjoyed this second installment!
Kerrigan's journey continues! I wasn't sure what all was going to happen next in her story and I really liked how this installment kept me on my toes. I enjoyed getting to dig deeper into this world and with these characters. Once again, I so enjoyed what Fordham brought to the story!
With House of Shadows, Ms.Linde has created such a good read! I am so looking forward to getting back into this world with the third installment, House of Curses!
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from Wildfire Marketing Solutions / the author*
Kerrigan's journey continues! I wasn't sure what all was going to happen next in her story and I really liked how this installment kept me on my toes. I enjoyed getting to dig deeper into this world and with these characters. Once again, I so enjoyed what Fordham brought to the story!
With House of Shadows, Ms.Linde has created such a good read! I am so looking forward to getting back into this world with the third installment, House of Curses!
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from Wildfire Marketing Solutions / the author*
October 20, 2021
So, let me preface this if you have NOT read House of Dragons, stop, turn around and go back to read it because it is an absolute must! Now that is out of the way, OMG! This book! The level of depth that Linde gives us with her fantasy books is 100% chef’s kiss! I could NOT stop reading this one once I started. I was wrapped up in Kerrigan and how things were all going to play out for her. We delved into the House of Shadows this time and I was just absolutely spellbound by everything. It is raw, intense and so many levels of twists that I bow to Linde and her writing. The whole connection between Kerrigan and Ford is just WOW! I am dying to get my hands on more from this series!
January 30, 2023
This definitely has a different feel to it than the first one. It feels more like a fantasy story than an academy genre where Kerrigan has multiple love interests. The politics of the world shift into focus here.
I think if I read this vs the audio book I would have enjoyed it more. There are far too many characters to keep straight, especially with the shifting third person POV. it's easy to lose track.
I think if I read this vs the audio book I would have enjoyed it more. There are far too many characters to keep straight, especially with the shifting third person POV. it's easy to lose track.
October 21, 2021
I was so ready to get back to this series! Book 1 left me so intrigued with the characters and I couldn’t wait to see where the story would go. I love the multiple perspectives that we get in this book. It really opens up the world even more. Fordham and Kerrigan’s relationship builds and builds and the trust they have in each other makes my romantic heart thrilled. Can’t wait to see what twists we’ll see in House of Curses!!
October 21, 2021
I waited a year for this installment and I was not disappointed. However, KA is no longer my best friend! I do NOT have the patience to wait another year for the next book!! GIVE IT TO ME NOW! I cannot wait for this next one!
Great job to the Angst Queen on leaving us wanting more!
Great job to the Angst Queen on leaving us wanting more!
October 5, 2023
Great follow up! Can't wait to see how this will all play out.
March 15, 2024
I finally got my spice, I loved it. The story is still wild. I’m hooked, the letter at the end made me cry, and even though I guessed the twist at the end, I still loved it!
October 20, 2021
How am I going to wait a whole year for the next book!? This addition to the series was such a wild ride. Drama, battles, twists, and a slow burn, what more could you want!?
August 20, 2023
Mon avis en Français
My English review
Le premier tome de la série était très sympa et j’étais curieuse de découvrir la suite des aventures de nos chers personnages.
Kerrigan a enfin réussi à rentrer dans la société, alors qu’elle pensait que ce n’était pas possible. Mais mieux encore : elle a un dragon. Malheureusement, la vie n’est pas un long fleuve tranquille. Après avoir découvert la maison des ombres, une visite qui ne se passe pas comme prévu, elle se retrouve lancée dans sa formation. Problème : tout est plus compliqué que prévu. D’autant plus qu’elle cache un secret qui pourrait la faire virer.
En plus, son ancien fiancé débarque et affirme que leurs fiançailles sont toujours d’actualité, quoi qu’elle n dise. Kerrigan n’en veut pas, mais elle va devoir trouver le moyen de briser ce lien qu’il semble vouloir plus que tout.
Une guerre approche et Fordham va devoir choisir sa place, ce ne sera pas simple. Nos deux héros vont devoir faire des choix difficiles, et les conséquences seront tout aussi difficiles. Je suis très curieuse de lire le dernier tome, après tout ce qui s’est passé ici.
My English review
Le premier tome de la série était très sympa et j’étais curieuse de découvrir la suite des aventures de nos chers personnages.
Kerrigan a enfin réussi à rentrer dans la société, alors qu’elle pensait que ce n’était pas possible. Mais mieux encore : elle a un dragon. Malheureusement, la vie n’est pas un long fleuve tranquille. Après avoir découvert la maison des ombres, une visite qui ne se passe pas comme prévu, elle se retrouve lancée dans sa formation. Problème : tout est plus compliqué que prévu. D’autant plus qu’elle cache un secret qui pourrait la faire virer.
En plus, son ancien fiancé débarque et affirme que leurs fiançailles sont toujours d’actualité, quoi qu’elle n dise. Kerrigan n’en veut pas, mais elle va devoir trouver le moyen de briser ce lien qu’il semble vouloir plus que tout.
Une guerre approche et Fordham va devoir choisir sa place, ce ne sera pas simple. Nos deux héros vont devoir faire des choix difficiles, et les conséquences seront tout aussi difficiles. Je suis très curieuse de lire le dernier tome, après tout ce qui s’est passé ici.
May 5, 2023
Book 2 in the series, my memory is already fading, but I thought it was better than book 1.
Maybe it was just the changed setting, or the increased interaction between Kerrigan and Fordham.
Maybe it was just the changed setting, or the increased interaction between Kerrigan and Fordham.
October 8, 2023
This was another compelling read in this ongoing series. Things intensified in this one, the stakes bigger than ever and more than one assassin that wants to still Kerrigan because she dares to buck the system. Our heart goes out to Kerrigan time and time again for everything she endures, she is so pure of heart and all she wants to do is change their world for the better.
We love that Tieran and Kerrigan have gotten closer the animosity is gone the teasing still there which we absolutely love but, they truly care about one another and that is the best of all.
The mystery intensifies and boy do we learn about a very big secret in this one, and it will blow your mind.Fordham and Kerrigan, still making their ways separately but, by now you know Kerrigan well enough to know that she will never give up here man as she considers him hers their connection and chemistry will not let them be apart for long.
More intrigue traitors in the mist and so much more to sink your teeth into with this one, we loved every bit of the ride...
We love that Tieran and Kerrigan have gotten closer the animosity is gone the teasing still there which we absolutely love but, they truly care about one another and that is the best of all.
The mystery intensifies and boy do we learn about a very big secret in this one, and it will blow your mind.Fordham and Kerrigan, still making their ways separately but, by now you know Kerrigan well enough to know that she will never give up here man as she considers him hers their connection and chemistry will not let them be apart for long.
More intrigue traitors in the mist and so much more to sink your teeth into with this one, we loved every bit of the ride...
Shelved as 'did-not-finish'
October 6, 2023DNF at 80%
There’s no use in me forcing myself to finish this book. I was here for the academic setting with dragons, but book two took a huge step back from that story and has instead been focusing on rebels, revolution, royalty and the romance - and I’ve really not been enjoying it.
Plus the weird twists, the most recent twist had me feeling like it was a bit ridiculous and a bit too much. Made me wonder what kind of story this series is trying to tell because it’s stopped making any sense.
There’s no use in me forcing myself to finish this book. I was here for the academic setting with dragons, but book two took a huge step back from that story and has instead been focusing on rebels, revolution, royalty and the romance - and I’ve really not been enjoying it.
Plus the weird twists, the most recent twist had me feeling like it was a bit ridiculous and a bit too much. Made me wonder what kind of story this series is trying to tell because it’s stopped making any sense.
November 6, 2022
Not sure if it counts as a DNF, if I skipped through most of the book and only read the last few chapters. I felt pretty caught up and didn’t feel the need to go back.
October 20, 2021
Check out our full post for HOUSE OF SHADOWS on Wicked Reads OR our full post for HOUSE OF SHADOWS on Wicked Reads: YA Edition, our teen-friendly blog.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Erica – ☆☆☆☆☆
HOUSE OF SHADOWS is the second installment in the Royal Houses series. Since it is a continuation in an epic fantasy series, book one, HOUSE OF DRAGONS, must be read first to avoid confusion and to understand the complex world building.
Since it had been a long time since I read the debut, I was fearful I would be confused at the start of HOUSE OF SHADOWS, but K.A. Linde flawlessly delivered cues to clue the reader in without massive amounts of info dumps, leading with a smooth transition from one book to the next as if ending one chapter and beginning another.
Kerrigan was abandoned at the House of Dragons when she was a child. While she was under the impression she was removed by her father due to her half-fae lineage, it was to keep her safe under the protection of the mountain.
After the events of the previous installment, which I won't highlight to avoid those reading this review before deciding to start the series, Kerrigan is training to become a full-fledged member of the society. Combat, history, and bonding with her dragon, while being targeted by Society members for not being full fae, she has a large target on her back.
Kerrigan is a strong heroine. She's as gifted as she is flawed. Nothing comes easy to her, trying with all her might to succeed even when she fails. She doesn't necessarily take things in stride, but that is what makes her feel more realistically human. Bridging the gap between all social classes, royals, fae, half-fae, human, and destitute human, Kerrigan becomes a symbol of hope.
HOUSE OF SHADOWS is an adventure. While fast-paced, it was a long, complex journey filled with politics, battles, push-pull romance between enemies turned lovers, smoldering into a slow burn with the whisper of a triangle (quadrangle?) as Kerrigan is torn between what she wants, what she needs, what would be for the good of her people, and what would be good for the people she represents, not only in the Society or her royal lineage but for those she sees as her people.
Everyone fighting each other, inter-fighting and species fighting, I won't get into the overall plot, as that is something best dove into blindly. What I will say is that Linde is a master of angst. Not only is our Dark Prince a persnickety sort, stoic with a hot and cold personality, Kerrigan is dealing with the King of the dregs, feelings from her teen years quite possibly rearing their ugly head as he becomes protector instead of negotiator... then the royal line comes in to create mischief, dragging along a betrothal of the lost princess, one in which who needs her to be queen to his future king.
It's a year-long wait, which I will be anticipating the next installment, as it promises to deliver more of which readers voraciously read in the first and second installments. One thing I know not to fear is the seamless transition from one book to the next, no need to reread, but I will say the prospect is temping.
My guilty pleasure, sentient beings in a series, where they take on a life of their own. Be it an inner beast, a gargoyle or a pixie, or a sarcastic dragon partner. The relationship Kerrigan develops with her dragon, the witty repartee, the teasing, the little snips and digs, it brings life to a creature that is generally just on the pages.
Highly recommended to fans of both adult and young adult epic fantasy. HOUSE OF SHADOWS is sure to please the masses.
Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
June 5, 2023
https://my-bo0ks.over-blog.com/2023/0...
L'an dernier, je me plongeais dans La maison des dragons, le premier tome des Amants maudits et j'avais vraiment adoré ma lecture. Alors bien sur, quand j'ai eu l'occasion d'acheter en avant-première le second tome lors de la Pop-Up store des éditions Bookmark, je n'ai pas réfléchis longtemps, j'ai sauté dessus. A noter que ce second tome sort officiellement le 9 août prochain.
Pour me replonger dedans, j'ai décidé de relire le premier tome avant de me lancer dans cette belle petite brique. Concrètement, j'ai bien fait car si je me souvenais de l'essentiel, ce second tome reprend exactement là où on s'est arrêté et autant vous dire que dans cette suite il se passe énormément de choses et le suspense est à son comble ! J'ai beaucoup aimé ma lecture et je me languis déjà de la suite.
Pour ceux qui ne connaissent pas encore la série, on est sur de la fantasy avec des dragons (et ils ne font pas de la figuration). Kerrigan, notre héroine est mi-humaine, mi-fae et a été abandonné très jeune devant la Maison des dragons à cause de sa nature. Mais sa magie, son passé et surtout, l'arrivée du Prince des Ombres, Fordham a bouleversé tout ça. Rébellion, complots, action et romance interdite, on est bien servis. Alors go lire le premier tome !
Ce second tome est vraiment intense. Comme je vous le disais plus haut, il se passe beaucoup de choses. Contre toute attente, on ne passe que peu de temps à la Maison des ombres, là où vit donc reclus le peuple et la famille de Ford. Autant dire que les coutumes et les manières de faire sont aussi archaïques que différentes et pour démêler le vrai du faux, Kerrigan aura bien du mal. D'autant que la barrière qui les maintient depuis des années semble montrer quelques fêlures.
Mais finalement, pas de repos pour nos personnages et voilà Kerrigan et Ford de retour pour leur apprentissage avec les Dragons. Car pour devenir un membre de la société et devenir maitre dragon, encore faut-il réussir l'entrainement. Une tâche bien difficile pour Kerrigan et Tieran (son dragon) vu qu'ils n'ont pas réussi à se lier comme cela devrait être le cas. Une petite pression supplémentaire qui vient s'ajouter.
Côté romance, on progresse, doucement mais surement. En même temps, on partait de loin et cette relation interdite va causer bien des tourments. Mais je dois dire que j'ai adoré cette tension qu'il y a entre eux et l'évolution de leur relation. Notre cœur est soumis à rude épreuve dans ce tome et j'ai hâte de les voir de nouveau réuni. Car en plus des raisons de Ford de prendre ses distances, Dozan, le roi des rebuts est toujours dans le décor et un autre personnage vient bouleverser tout cela. Je l'ai détesté dès le début, comme on peut s'en douter. On est pas dans un triangle amoureux mais on le frôle dangereusement.
Enfin, niveau action et rebondissements on est servis. Entre le personnage qui tire les ficelles depuis le premier tome, et qui en veut à nos personnages tout en usant de stratégie, dont on apprend ENFIN l'identité en fin de tome, ce qui m'a vraiment laissé sur le... cette révélation m'a beaucoup surprise, je ne m'y attendais pas. Les manigances de chacun, la rébellion qui fait rage et les choix à prendre, autant dire que ce tome nous tient en haleine.
Qu'une chose à dire, l'autrice sait nous mener en bateau et nous surprendre quand on s'y attend le moins. Peut-être un chouille moins séduite que le premier mais cela joue exclusivement sur l'évolution de la romance et les prétendants de notre héroine, même si, je le répète, pas de triangle amoureux ici (du moins pour l'instant). En tout cas, j'ai hâte de poursuivre.
L'an dernier, je me plongeais dans La maison des dragons, le premier tome des Amants maudits et j'avais vraiment adoré ma lecture. Alors bien sur, quand j'ai eu l'occasion d'acheter en avant-première le second tome lors de la Pop-Up store des éditions Bookmark, je n'ai pas réfléchis longtemps, j'ai sauté dessus. A noter que ce second tome sort officiellement le 9 août prochain.
Pour me replonger dedans, j'ai décidé de relire le premier tome avant de me lancer dans cette belle petite brique. Concrètement, j'ai bien fait car si je me souvenais de l'essentiel, ce second tome reprend exactement là où on s'est arrêté et autant vous dire que dans cette suite il se passe énormément de choses et le suspense est à son comble ! J'ai beaucoup aimé ma lecture et je me languis déjà de la suite.
Pour ceux qui ne connaissent pas encore la série, on est sur de la fantasy avec des dragons (et ils ne font pas de la figuration). Kerrigan, notre héroine est mi-humaine, mi-fae et a été abandonné très jeune devant la Maison des dragons à cause de sa nature. Mais sa magie, son passé et surtout, l'arrivée du Prince des Ombres, Fordham a bouleversé tout ça. Rébellion, complots, action et romance interdite, on est bien servis. Alors go lire le premier tome !
Ce second tome est vraiment intense. Comme je vous le disais plus haut, il se passe beaucoup de choses. Contre toute attente, on ne passe que peu de temps à la Maison des ombres, là où vit donc reclus le peuple et la famille de Ford. Autant dire que les coutumes et les manières de faire sont aussi archaïques que différentes et pour démêler le vrai du faux, Kerrigan aura bien du mal. D'autant que la barrière qui les maintient depuis des années semble montrer quelques fêlures.
Mais finalement, pas de repos pour nos personnages et voilà Kerrigan et Ford de retour pour leur apprentissage avec les Dragons. Car pour devenir un membre de la société et devenir maitre dragon, encore faut-il réussir l'entrainement. Une tâche bien difficile pour Kerrigan et Tieran (son dragon) vu qu'ils n'ont pas réussi à se lier comme cela devrait être le cas. Une petite pression supplémentaire qui vient s'ajouter.
Côté romance, on progresse, doucement mais surement. En même temps, on partait de loin et cette relation interdite va causer bien des tourments. Mais je dois dire que j'ai adoré cette tension qu'il y a entre eux et l'évolution de leur relation. Notre cœur est soumis à rude épreuve dans ce tome et j'ai hâte de les voir de nouveau réuni. Car en plus des raisons de Ford de prendre ses distances, Dozan, le roi des rebuts est toujours dans le décor et un autre personnage vient bouleverser tout cela. Je l'ai détesté dès le début, comme on peut s'en douter. On est pas dans un triangle amoureux mais on le frôle dangereusement.
Enfin, niveau action et rebondissements on est servis. Entre le personnage qui tire les ficelles depuis le premier tome, et qui en veut à nos personnages tout en usant de stratégie, dont on apprend ENFIN l'identité en fin de tome, ce qui m'a vraiment laissé sur le... cette révélation m'a beaucoup surprise, je ne m'y attendais pas. Les manigances de chacun, la rébellion qui fait rage et les choix à prendre, autant dire que ce tome nous tient en haleine.
Qu'une chose à dire, l'autrice sait nous mener en bateau et nous surprendre quand on s'y attend le moins. Peut-être un chouille moins séduite que le premier mais cela joue exclusivement sur l'évolution de la romance et les prétendants de notre héroine, même si, je le répète, pas de triangle amoureux ici (du moins pour l'instant). En tout cas, j'ai hâte de poursuivre.
October 15, 2021
RATING:
4 STARS
Before reading further, please be aware! While this review is free of any spoilers for House of Shadows, there might be minor spoilers for House of Dragons . Proceed at your own risk.
House of Shadows by K.A. Linde is the second book in the Royal Houses series and begins where House of Dragons ended. Kerrigan Argon, our scrappy half-fae half-human heroine has just won the Tournament of Dragons against all odds and is slated to begin her training as a dragon rider. She heads out for the mysterious House of Shadows with Prince Fordham, but things are not as easy there as she might have hoped. Kerrigan must deal with all the trials that come with the mysterious House of Shadows and its members, while also making sure she passes her dragon rider training to become a full member of the society and contending with the rampant anti-halfling sentiment. So many challenges to deal with, but Kerrigan has my vote for being up to the task.
I am a major fan of the young adult fantasy genre, and as far as I’m concerned every story improves with the inclusion of a dragon. I love the magic system in this book and how the tribal system/houses work. The power balance between the different houses is definitely interesting. I would have loved to see more of the ancient, ginormous dragons like Gelryn the Destroyer make an appearance. Don’t get me wrong - I’m very much a fan of all the dragons you do get to see due to the society dragon rider training. I just wish we got to see the older, elder dragons more (a lot of the dragons that make appearances are very young by dragon standards).
In the first book, the romance between Fordham and Kerrigan was definitely “slow burn”. Things do move forward in this book (yay for scenes with a bit of spiciness) but not enough for my romance-loving heart. I’m crossing my fingers and hoping that things work out for them in the third book because I absolutely adore Fordham (total book boyfriend material). Fordham and Kerrigan deserve to be together after everything that’s happened over the course of the two books. I’m also really hoping that things work out between Darby and Clover because as happy as I am that Darby has her new house and tribe and all, they deserve to be happy too.
I recommend this book to fans of the young adult fantasy genre who love magic, dragons, and action-packed stories. While there are some intimate scenes, nothing’s graphic in description (heavy makeout scenes and implications of what’s going on between two characters). House of Shadows is the second book in the Royal Houses series, and I do recommend reading them in order (otherwise some of the events and references in House of Shadows will not make sense).
Thank you to the author and Wildfire Marketing Solutions for allowing me the opportunity to read the book early. I appreciate it immensely. I’m eagerly awaiting news of when the third book in the series, House of Curses will release in 2022. As a note, I voluntarily read and reviewed an early copy of House of Shadows; this does not affect my opinion of the book or the context of my review.
Before reading further, please be aware! While this review is free of any spoilers for House of Shadows, there might be minor spoilers for House of Dragons . Proceed at your own risk.
House of Shadows by K.A. Linde is the second book in the Royal Houses series and begins where House of Dragons ended. Kerrigan Argon, our scrappy half-fae half-human heroine has just won the Tournament of Dragons against all odds and is slated to begin her training as a dragon rider. She heads out for the mysterious House of Shadows with Prince Fordham, but things are not as easy there as she might have hoped. Kerrigan must deal with all the trials that come with the mysterious House of Shadows and its members, while also making sure she passes her dragon rider training to become a full member of the society and contending with the rampant anti-halfling sentiment. So many challenges to deal with, but Kerrigan has my vote for being up to the task.
I am a major fan of the young adult fantasy genre, and as far as I’m concerned every story improves with the inclusion of a dragon. I love the magic system in this book and how the tribal system/houses work. The power balance between the different houses is definitely interesting. I would have loved to see more of the ancient, ginormous dragons like Gelryn the Destroyer make an appearance. Don’t get me wrong - I’m very much a fan of all the dragons you do get to see due to the society dragon rider training. I just wish we got to see the older, elder dragons more (a lot of the dragons that make appearances are very young by dragon standards).
In the first book, the romance between Fordham and Kerrigan was definitely “slow burn”. Things do move forward in this book (yay for scenes with a bit of spiciness) but not enough for my romance-loving heart. I’m crossing my fingers and hoping that things work out for them in the third book because I absolutely adore Fordham (total book boyfriend material). Fordham and Kerrigan deserve to be together after everything that’s happened over the course of the two books. I’m also really hoping that things work out between Darby and Clover because as happy as I am that Darby has her new house and tribe and all, they deserve to be happy too.
I recommend this book to fans of the young adult fantasy genre who love magic, dragons, and action-packed stories. While there are some intimate scenes, nothing’s graphic in description (heavy makeout scenes and implications of what’s going on between two characters). House of Shadows is the second book in the Royal Houses series, and I do recommend reading them in order (otherwise some of the events and references in House of Shadows will not make sense).
Thank you to the author and Wildfire Marketing Solutions for allowing me the opportunity to read the book early. I appreciate it immensely. I’m eagerly awaiting news of when the third book in the series, House of Curses will release in 2022. As a note, I voluntarily read and reviewed an early copy of House of Shadows; this does not affect my opinion of the book or the context of my review.
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