Why I read it: I received a review copy from the publisher. I read and enjoyed the first few books in the series and I own all the rest. But, I stopped reading the series at Phury's book - it was sooo long and the series was heading away from PNR and more into urban fantasy territory. I have been hearing about Qhuinn and Blaylock for a while now though and I was so excited that a mainstream publisher was printing an m/m romance. That, in itself would have been enough to make me want to read it. I caught up on the series using cheatsheets put together by Decadence at Book Thingo. Fair warning, my opinion may be is no doubt coloured by not having read all the books in the series.
What it's about: (from Goodreads) Qhuinn, son of no one, is
used to being on his own. Disavowed from his bloodline, shunned by the
aristocracy, he has finally found an identity as one of the most brutal
fighters in the war against the Lessening Society. But his life is not
complete. Even as the prospect of having a family of his own seems to be
within reach, he is empty on the inside, his heart given to another....
Blay, after years of unrequited love, has moved on from his feelings for Qhuinn. And it’s about time: The male has found his perfect match in a Chosen female, and they are going to have a young- just as Qhuinn has always wanted for himself. It’s hard to see the new couple together, but building your life around a pipe dream is just a heartbreak waiting to happen. As he’s learned firsthand.
Fate seems to have taken these vampire soldiers in different directions... but as the battle over the race’s throne intensifies, and new players on the scene in Caldwell create mortal danger for the Brotherhood, Qhuinn finally learns the true definition of courage, and two hearts who are meant to be together... finally become one.
Blay, after years of unrequited love, has moved on from his feelings for Qhuinn. And it’s about time: The male has found his perfect match in a Chosen female, and they are going to have a young- just as Qhuinn has always wanted for himself. It’s hard to see the new couple together, but building your life around a pipe dream is just a heartbreak waiting to happen. As he’s learned firsthand.
Fate seems to have taken these vampire soldiers in different directions... but as the battle over the race’s throne intensifies, and new players on the scene in Caldwell create mortal danger for the Brotherhood, Qhuinn finally learns the true definition of courage, and two hearts who are meant to be together... finally become one.
What worked for me (and what didn't): This is a long book - nearly 600 pages - but if you expect wall to wall Qhuinn and Blay you will be disappointed. There are various plot threads advanced - a little bit from Beth and Wrath, some from Xcor and Layla, Layla and Qhuinn, Assail and a new lady by the name of Sola, Trez and iAm, the lessers, Wrath's reign, changes to the laws - it's all happening. In amongst it, is the romantic culmination of Qhuinn's and Blay's story.
