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Chronicles of the Warlands#2
Warsworn
Lara is the Warprize
A powerful healer, she has sworn an oath of loyalty to Keir the Warlord, and his people. Now the Warlord and his chosen mate face enemies within the tribe and danger lurks on every hand as they journey toward Keir's homeland.
When they reach a village marked with the warnings of the plague, Keir forbids Lara to heal the sick, commanding that she not risk her own life. But both Lara and Kier are strong of will and neither will bend easily, even for love; and when Lara disobeys, she pays the both she and Kier are plague-struck... and so is their entire encampment.
In the midst of the dying, Iften, a rival warrior, gathers his followers and challenges Keir for the right to rule their tribe. If Keir, weakened by the sickness, loses -- he dies.
And so does Lara.
To save her love, her life, and her adopted people, Lara must find a cure for the plague -- and fully embrace her sworn role as Warprize to her Warlord.
A powerful healer, she has sworn an oath of loyalty to Keir the Warlord, and his people. Now the Warlord and his chosen mate face enemies within the tribe and danger lurks on every hand as they journey toward Keir's homeland.
When they reach a village marked with the warnings of the plague, Keir forbids Lara to heal the sick, commanding that she not risk her own life. But both Lara and Kier are strong of will and neither will bend easily, even for love; and when Lara disobeys, she pays the both she and Kier are plague-struck... and so is their entire encampment.
In the midst of the dying, Iften, a rival warrior, gathers his followers and challenges Keir for the right to rule their tribe. If Keir, weakened by the sickness, loses -- he dies.
And so does Lara.
To save her love, her life, and her adopted people, Lara must find a cure for the plague -- and fully embrace her sworn role as Warprize to her Warlord.
325 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published April 4, 2006
About the author
Elizabeth Vaughan
30books833followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name.
Elizabeth A. Vaughan is the author of the Chronicles of the Warlands, a fantasy romance trilogy from Tor Books: Warprize (her first novel), Warsworn, and Warlord..
She's always loved fantasy and science fiction, and has been a fantasy role-player since 1981. By day, Beth's secret identity is that of a lawyer, practicing in the area of bankruptcy and financial matters, a role she has maintained since 1985.
Beth is owned by three cats, and lives in the Northwest Territory, on the outskirts of the Black Swamp, along Mad Anthony's Trail on the banks of the Maumee River.
Elizabeth A. Vaughan is the author of the Chronicles of the Warlands, a fantasy romance trilogy from Tor Books: Warprize (her first novel), Warsworn, and Warlord..
She's always loved fantasy and science fiction, and has been a fantasy role-player since 1981. By day, Beth's secret identity is that of a lawyer, practicing in the area of bankruptcy and financial matters, a role she has maintained since 1985.
Beth is owned by three cats, and lives in the Northwest Territory, on the outskirts of the Black Swamp, along Mad Anthony's Trail on the banks of the Maumee River.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 366 reviews
September 16, 2010
I didn't like this one.
My ratings for all three books in the series are:
WARPRIZE (4 stars)
WARSWORN (2 stars)
WARLORD (3 stars)
This was the 2nd book in the series. The lovers are traveling back to his world. Along the way they see a village that has quaranteed itself due to the plague.
CAUTION SPOILERS:
I did not like Lara's stupidity when she did the following. She insisted that she enter the village to see if she could help using her healing abilities. This was pride and arrogance on her part, because she had no cures at that time and ended up saving no one from the village except one baby, which was due to luck. In addition, a friend who accompanied her ended up dying of the plague. She lied to her lover Keir by not telling him that they would have to wait 40 days before journeying on, to be sure they didn't spread the plague. She and Keir ended up getting the plague sickness. The plague then spread to Keir's army. It was not clear to me if Lara's actions caused the spread or something else in the environment caused the army to catch it. This book was devoted almost entirely to the story of the plague, healing methods for it and resulting deaths. It was not an enjoyable story. The first book was very good. The third book was ok. I think readers could skip this second one without missing too much.
DATA:
Sexual content: mild. Setting: medieval times. Copyright: 2006. Genre: medieval fantasy romance.
My ratings for all three books in the series are:
WARPRIZE (4 stars)
WARSWORN (2 stars)
WARLORD (3 stars)
This was the 2nd book in the series. The lovers are traveling back to his world. Along the way they see a village that has quaranteed itself due to the plague.
CAUTION SPOILERS:
I did not like Lara's stupidity when she did the following. She insisted that she enter the village to see if she could help using her healing abilities. This was pride and arrogance on her part, because she had no cures at that time and ended up saving no one from the village except one baby, which was due to luck. In addition, a friend who accompanied her ended up dying of the plague. She lied to her lover Keir by not telling him that they would have to wait 40 days before journeying on, to be sure they didn't spread the plague. She and Keir ended up getting the plague sickness. The plague then spread to Keir's army. It was not clear to me if Lara's actions caused the spread or something else in the environment caused the army to catch it. This book was devoted almost entirely to the story of the plague, healing methods for it and resulting deaths. It was not an enjoyable story. The first book was very good. The third book was ok. I think readers could skip this second one without missing too much.
DATA:
Sexual content: mild. Setting: medieval times. Copyright: 2006. Genre: medieval fantasy romance.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 13, 2018
Nope. Too boring. I skimmed a lot of this because so very, very bored. The plague was the entire plot of this book and that was too much. Especially since there was no hooray, I found an answer & cure.
The genre of this book is incorrectly classified as fantasy romance. It's more so a medieval historical romance in a made up world. I think of magic and mythological creatures when I think fantasy books - there are none in this. It's very disappointing.
I like Keir, the male mc, and most of the characters, they're just boring me. Lara, the female mc, is TSTL in this book.
The genre of this book is incorrectly classified as fantasy romance. It's more so a medieval historical romance in a made up world. I think of magic and mythological creatures when I think fantasy books - there are none in this. It's very disappointing.
I like Keir, the male mc, and most of the characters, they're just boring me. Lara, the female mc, is TSTL in this book.
March 9, 2020
I decided to write just one review for these three books in the series, cause they all tell a story of one couple, Lara and Keir:) originally, I rated the first two book 4 stars, but after a few weeks have passed, I decided to give all three of them 3 stars instead… mostly because the more I thought about it, the more I was sure that it was only a mediocre story for me… don’t get me wrong, I found the first book on sale and was in a mood for a fantasy-ish / historical story with some sort of arranged relationship in it, so I started reading the first installment straight away… and yes, I was invested enough in the story and curious when it will go that I picked up both sequels right after another… and I did enjoy my time while I was reading them, although I wasn’t the biggest fan of some of the decisions the author made within the story, especially in that third book, but still… I finished them for a reason… but even after only a few weeks I have already forgotten most of the details about it… the main couple was interesting, but I still think their romance was underdeveloped… I can appreciate some topics the author tried to tackle when it comes to a relationship between two strong minded people, but it could have been all handled better… I liked quite a few secondary characters a lot, but even though I already know they have their own stories, if we’re being completely honest, I don’t think I will ever come back to this world… it was all too *meh* for me to spend my time reading even more stories set in it, especially since there are so many more that hit me in all my feels that much stronger… if you are interested in picking this series up then I highly encourage you to check out some other reviews of it before making up your mind:)
XOXO
A
XOXO
A
May 11, 2017
I was bored. Truly bored:(
June 28, 2019
Princess Lara offers herself as a sacrifice to Warlord Kier, agreeing to be his slave to save her brother, the King, and country from being ravaged and pillaged by the Fireland warriors.
Returning back to the Firelands, Warlord Kier does not treat Lara as a slave or demand any carnal pleasures from her, though he keeps her by his side and in his bed. Communication between the two is a challenge as they speak different languages but as his slave she only needs to know the basics. Lara finally seeks out Kier's singer (truth teller/historian/neutral party) in training to help her understand the facts of life and what role a WarPrize serves. The answers will be a game changer between the two.
Traveling close to a stronghold to rest for a night, Kier's army is denied entry. Preparing to storm the village, Lara convinces her Warlord to look beyond and deeper into the stronghold's actions, uncovering a foe that cannot be fought and leaves no survivors.
* * * *
This is the second installment in the "Chronicles Of The Warlands"that can't be read as a standalone. the series builds off each installment which means any potential reader is going to have to start from the beginning.
Kier & Lara. I appreciate that the deception premised inWarPrizewas cleared up so the two can begin and act on their mutual attraction. While I was disappointed in the fade to black intimate scenes between the two, I respect any author's choice and free will to present her tale and characters in her own manner, as he/she is comfortable with.
Secondary characters. Marcus. Marcus. Marcus. So many feelings regarding this character though I need more info before coming to a final opinion (ps. I have re-read the entire series and done that but it would be spoiler for this installment so.... ). The large cast of supporting characters make it impossible to list out my favorites and/or who were standouts but that's the beauty of this series. That there is such a large cast of different colors, shapes, sizes, and personalities.
Each book in this series is engaging and provides the reader with action-adventure-romance-mystery-suspense-intrigue-angst-violence galore. One non-spoiler tidbit. I totally appreciated the introduction of the game Chess into the story line. What a wonderful analogy to compliment the story with the game......
Lastly, I detest and avoid tearjerker stories. My personal career is emotionally draining and includes supporting those who are in crisis and despair. My zen is to lose myself in the fictional world of romance in all genres. Totally blindsided that I had to grab the tissue box and engage in a good cry but I understand and support that bad things can happen to good people - it's how they deal with it that matters.
Returning back to the Firelands, Warlord Kier does not treat Lara as a slave or demand any carnal pleasures from her, though he keeps her by his side and in his bed. Communication between the two is a challenge as they speak different languages but as his slave she only needs to know the basics. Lara finally seeks out Kier's singer (truth teller/historian/neutral party) in training to help her understand the facts of life and what role a WarPrize serves. The answers will be a game changer between the two.
Traveling close to a stronghold to rest for a night, Kier's army is denied entry. Preparing to storm the village, Lara convinces her Warlord to look beyond and deeper into the stronghold's actions, uncovering a foe that cannot be fought and leaves no survivors.
* * * *
This is the second installment in the "Chronicles Of The Warlands"that can't be read as a standalone. the series builds off each installment which means any potential reader is going to have to start from the beginning.
Kier & Lara. I appreciate that the deception premised inWarPrizewas cleared up so the two can begin and act on their mutual attraction. While I was disappointed in the fade to black intimate scenes between the two, I respect any author's choice and free will to present her tale and characters in her own manner, as he/she is comfortable with.
Secondary characters. Marcus. Marcus. Marcus. So many feelings regarding this character though I need more info before coming to a final opinion (ps. I have re-read the entire series and done that but it would be spoiler for this installment so.... ). The large cast of supporting characters make it impossible to list out my favorites and/or who were standouts but that's the beauty of this series. That there is such a large cast of different colors, shapes, sizes, and personalities.
Each book in this series is engaging and provides the reader with action-adventure-romance-mystery-suspense-intrigue-angst-violence galore. One non-spoiler tidbit. I totally appreciated the introduction of the game Chess into the story line. What a wonderful analogy to compliment the story with the game......
Lastly, I detest and avoid tearjerker stories. My personal career is emotionally draining and includes supporting those who are in crisis and despair. My zen is to lose myself in the fictional world of romance in all genres. Totally blindsided that I had to grab the tissue box and engage in a good cry but I understand and support that bad things can happen to good people - it's how they deal with it that matters.
January 29, 2018
So, I am re-reading this series and decreased my rating on this particular book because found the characters so irritating. I still like this whole series, even though a couple of books are weaker in their characters than others.
June 11, 2020
I don't know.
I mean, still no elements of fantasy. And I found Lara to be... reaaaaaallllllly stupid in this one. I don't entirely know why Kier likes her. Plus, everyone is so sensitive about what her ways are, and being respectful of them, but she's pretty disdainful of their ways, and doesn't even try. Honestly, she's kind of an asshole.
And the Joden arc was depressing. And Gils. And Iften is just such a complete asshole. I don't know why Kier hasn't just killed him, but frankly it feels like weakness that he hasn't, at this point. Plus, there's just so much stuff that is weird but never discussed again. Like...Basically, things happen, and they are treated in a bit of a loaded way by the author, but then they never go anywhere or resolve into anything. I don't get it.
I'm soldiering onwards, but I'm pretty lukewarm right now, tbh.
I mean, still no elements of fantasy. And I found Lara to be... reaaaaaallllllly stupid in this one. I don't entirely know why Kier likes her. Plus, everyone is so sensitive about what her ways are, and being respectful of them, but she's pretty disdainful of their ways, and doesn't even try. Honestly, she's kind of an asshole.
And the Joden arc was depressing. And Gils. And Iften is just such a complete asshole. I don't know why Kier hasn't just killed him, but frankly it feels like weakness that he hasn't, at this point. Plus, there's just so much stuff that is weird but never discussed again. Like...Basically, things happen, and they are treated in a bit of a loaded way by the author, but then they never go anywhere or resolve into anything. I don't get it.
I'm soldiering onwards, but I'm pretty lukewarm right now, tbh.
June 10, 2023
#1.)Warprize:★★★★★
#2.)Warsworn:★★★
#3.)Warlord:★★★
Yeah...been there, done that. A shame, all those deaths.
THE GOOD
...?
THE BAD
This book's flaws are everything the other reviewers made them out to be: the plot is slow and plodding; Xylara's recklessness (or adherence to the Hippocratic oath?) and the dastardly results were deeply unfortunate; and the book as a whole doesn't seem to be necessary to continue on with the trilogy.
THE VERDICT
Eh. I skimmed this book in under an hour because I read enough reviews to know it wasn't going to be a good experience. I have no regrets, though. It made me want to go back and reread Warprize ...which is exactly what I'm going to do.
#2.)Warsworn:★★★
#3.)Warlord:★★★
Yeah...been there, done that. A shame, all those deaths.
THE GOOD
...?
THE BAD
This book's flaws are everything the other reviewers made them out to be: the plot is slow and plodding; Xylara's recklessness (or adherence to the Hippocratic oath?) and the dastardly results were deeply unfortunate; and the book as a whole doesn't seem to be necessary to continue on with the trilogy.
THE VERDICT
Eh. I skimmed this book in under an hour because I read enough reviews to know it wasn't going to be a good experience. I have no regrets, though. It made me want to go back and reread Warprize ...which is exactly what I'm going to do.
October 12, 2013
This book was a miserable read. I enjoyed the first book for its' ideas, there was a lot of greatness that was not quite realized, but I liked it enough to overlook its' shortcomings. Those shortcomings were exponentially more pronounced in this book. It was incredibly boring, dull, poorly conceived and unclear in its' intentions. I found myself agreeing with Iften's side: Lara is an incredibly selfish e-hat who put thousands of warriors at risk because she would not listen to anyone else. She caused so much suffering and death, and I do not forgive her. She is the worst part of this book and yet she is the narrator and the only point of view we get. I do not know what Keir sees in her. All I could do was trudge through this book so I can read the next one and finish the series (I already bought the books and wasted the money). Such a disappointment to go from that first book, Warprize, to this droning misery.
March 11, 2018
I liked this book up until the cliffhanger ending. Lots of sorrow, but I could figure out who was murdered and who just died. Good book overall.
June 18, 2017
An unsatisfactory follow up to the excellent Warprise, Warsworn's plot drags and the main character Lara actions seem out of character from her strong debut in Warprise.
The TL;DR review
I really enjoyed the first book warprise and quickly bought this book. I didn't enjoy this book as much as I thought I would.
Things I liked
- further exploration of the Firewalker culture
- Marcus!
- Lara teaching chess to Keir
- the quiet love between Lara and Keir
Things I didn't like
- The plague plot line dragged on for far too long.
- Seriously, it was watch the village die of the plague, then Lara's friend succumb to the plague, then Lara succumb to plague and recover, watch it spread to the camp, watch people die or recover, watch Keir when he gets the plague, end of book
- Lara should have never gone to that village in the first place. She listened to no one and the plague spread to hundreds of people. It seemed out of character for her to make such a foolish decision.
This book is character driven and it shows the internal turmoil of a character who has done all they can to help someone heal and watch them die painfully. I am a nurse. I have watched as we do everything medically possible for our patients and they still pass away. It's hard and it wears on the soul. This book does a good job covering the heartbreak of senseless death of the plague. I would have rather seen Lara have a little less arrogance in her healing abilities, but her humility is earned in a heartbreaking way.
This book would have been a five star read if the plague plot line had covered half of the book instead of the entire plot. Hopefully book three will be back on track.
The TL;DR review
I really enjoyed the first book warprise and quickly bought this book. I didn't enjoy this book as much as I thought I would.
Things I liked
- further exploration of the Firewalker culture
- Marcus!
- Lara teaching chess to Keir
- the quiet love between Lara and Keir
Things I didn't like
- The plague plot line dragged on for far too long.
- Seriously, it was watch the village die of the plague, then Lara's friend succumb to the plague, then Lara succumb to plague and recover, watch it spread to the camp, watch people die or recover, watch Keir when he gets the plague, end of book
- Lara should have never gone to that village in the first place. She listened to no one and the plague spread to hundreds of people. It seemed out of character for her to make such a foolish decision.
This book is character driven and it shows the internal turmoil of a character who has done all they can to help someone heal and watch them die painfully. I am a nurse. I have watched as we do everything medically possible for our patients and they still pass away. It's hard and it wears on the soul. This book does a good job covering the heartbreak of senseless death of the plague. I would have rather seen Lara have a little less arrogance in her healing abilities, but her humility is earned in a heartbreaking way.
This book would have been a five star read if the plague plot line had covered half of the book instead of the entire plot. Hopefully book three will be back on track.
February 9, 2014
I love the world Ms. Vaughan has created. The scenes with Lara teaching Keir about chess and how it spreads throughout the camp and grows into a massive chess tournament are hysterical! I really got a kick out of those scenes.
Keir still knocks my socks off. He is one sexy and sometimes very stubborn man who loves Lara completely. And Lara is an amazing heroine, amazing not because she’s a warrior or tough (she’s actually pretty weak compared to the other women), but because of her dedication to her craft.
I was saddened that some of the characters didn’t make it, especially since I enjoyed them so much. And I’ve decided that I truly hate Iften! But Lara’s curse on Iften’s manhood is truly one of the best curses I’ve ever heard, and I’m looking forward to when he finally gets what he deserves.
This good is a good continuation to WARPRIZE and the way it ended ensures that I’ll read WARLORD.
Keir still knocks my socks off. He is one sexy and sometimes very stubborn man who loves Lara completely. And Lara is an amazing heroine, amazing not because she’s a warrior or tough (she’s actually pretty weak compared to the other women), but because of her dedication to her craft.
I was saddened that some of the characters didn’t make it, especially since I enjoyed them so much. And I’ve decided that I truly hate Iften! But Lara’s curse on Iften’s manhood is truly one of the best curses I’ve ever heard, and I’m looking forward to when he finally gets what he deserves.
This good is a good continuation to WARPRIZE and the way it ended ensures that I’ll read WARLORD.
June 23, 2024
I enjoyed this second instalment, but maybe not as much as I did its predecessor. I think mostly because I felt we didn't progress much in terms of the overall plot. I did find this to be at times rather depressing and dire with limited feel-good vibes due to the awful situations it was depicting. I just felt there needed to be something to counter-balance all of this doom and gloom and there wasn't.
Despite the above, this was still a solid addition to the series. It was again well written and I am planning to continue on with this story. I adore Lana and Keir as a pairing and am rooting for them every step of the way. I'm looking forward to seeing what happens next and recommend this series for anyone wanting a romance series that is high on the feels but low on the spice and that comes served with a heavy barbarian vibe.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
February 21, 2023
In the second installment, the "Warsworn" we continue off from where the first book ended. Keir and Lara, are together, and are traveling their way to the plains so that Lara can become the official Warprize from the elders of their people. Lara has left everything she knows for the man she loves, but life is about to get a bit harder than she imagined. They stumble on a village, a village that is suffering from the plague, and despite Kier's protests, Lara goes in with a couple of her guards, and she finds only a couple of people left alive. A sickness, that kills in a few hours, and soon circumstances end up with the forces of the firelanders being contaminated with it, and Lara is fighting to heal and save those she can. Meanwhile, Keir's second in command, is causing turmoil among the camp, causing doubts against their Warlord. In Warsworn, we see more of Keir and Lara, and much more intensity and their bond is about to be tested. We see how these two are not only fighting for each other, but for their people. We see quite a bit of focus on Lara, in this installment, as we see her struggle with events that she has little control over. Where she is fighting for her life and the life of Keir and the future of the Firelanders. Lara has adopted them as her own, and she will do anything to save them. There is quite a bit of emotion displayed in this book, and I got put through the ringer on this one. It definitely isn't a easy one, but very satisfying!! I just kept cheering for this couple, there is so much against them and I just wanted Lara to find a way to win this one. From the first book you begin to really admire Lara, but this installment, you see her being constantly tested, and she comes out on top. I loved seeing Keir fight for his love, and I just wanted to cry in this book. Another win for Elizabeth Vaughan, and what a spectacular ending and I loved how it finishes off, in a way that ties some ends off, and begins new threads that makes you aching to read the next book in the series. Such a beautifully woven story of determination, power of true love and perseverance and to fight for what you believe in, no matter the cost. STUNNING IN ITS DETAIL!!
June 19, 2017
I'm rereading this book, because I want to read the 4th, but I'm already wondering if I really want to re-read it. I didn't like it nearly as much as the first, and in fact, because of that I've never made it to the third book. I wonder if it would be better to skip (or skim?) this one and move to the 3rd. I find Lara just not nearly as likeable in this book, and in fact, culpable of being a bit selfish in endangering everyone else.
September 10, 2011
3.5/5.0
This second in a trilogy continues the wonderful story of the warlord Keir and his warprize, Xylara. The story is just as well written as the first, The topic of fighting the plague just wasn't nearly as riveting a subject as others would have been. Still, it has me captivated enough to dive into the third book!
This second in a trilogy continues the wonderful story of the warlord Keir and his warprize, Xylara. The story is just as well written as the first, The topic of fighting the plague just wasn't nearly as riveting a subject as others would have been. Still, it has me captivated enough to dive into the third book!
April 20, 2015
I didn’t love this book the way I loved Warprize. But I did like it. Overall, it maintains the tone and the feel of the original. The worldbuilding is growing. The sex is a little steamier. The pacing, well, this isn’t really an action series. It’s about choices the characters make –and their implications. In the first book, it was about Lara’s decision to become the Warprize and the effect that choice had on her people, the people of the Plains, and her new Warlord. In this installment, it’s about Lara’s decision to try to save a town stricken by plague, and the ripple effect that choice creates.
Here’s the thing. In Waprize, Lara’s decision was a wholly admirable one. Not only was it selfless, it was wise. Here, she is still selfless to be sure, but wise? Not so much. Which makes it a little bit tougher to love.
Lara’s identity is firmly rooted in her calling as a Healer. But she does not adequately consider the consequences of exposing herself and her guards to a deadly disease. Not only does she over-inflate her abilities in her own mind, but she doesn’t think about what her own infection could mean to Keir. What her failure would say about his ability to rule. What her death would do to his heart. Her intentions are good, but is that a good enough reason to forgive her actions? –For many readers, that answer is likely no. For me, it didn’t destroy her character, but it definitely took some of the shine off the rose.
The events surrounding the plague are really the core of this book. There is not a lot of movement. But, I don’t consider it a waste. Here’s why: I like reading about Lara and Keir. I enjoy watching them come to know and love each other. I love the secondary characters, like Marcus, Isidra, and Gils. Even Iften is a character I love to hate. And while Lara made me want to shake a little of the stupid out of her, I feel like she learned from the events of the book. She grew. Her relationship with Keir is tested and it comes out stronger for it. And speaking of Keir (**swoon**) –what a great hero. He is powerful and sexy and smart and really a good man. I love him.
There are some tough parts of this book. We lose some people we’ve grown to love. And loyalties are tested; and some of them break. But it’s in the emotion that this book shines. In the friendships and love, heartbreak and triumph. I’m glad I read it –now I’m onto book 3.
Rating: B-
Here’s the thing. In Waprize, Lara’s decision was a wholly admirable one. Not only was it selfless, it was wise. Here, she is still selfless to be sure, but wise? Not so much. Which makes it a little bit tougher to love.
Lara’s identity is firmly rooted in her calling as a Healer. But she does not adequately consider the consequences of exposing herself and her guards to a deadly disease. Not only does she over-inflate her abilities in her own mind, but she doesn’t think about what her own infection could mean to Keir. What her failure would say about his ability to rule. What her death would do to his heart. Her intentions are good, but is that a good enough reason to forgive her actions? –For many readers, that answer is likely no. For me, it didn’t destroy her character, but it definitely took some of the shine off the rose.
The events surrounding the plague are really the core of this book. There is not a lot of movement. But, I don’t consider it a waste. Here’s why: I like reading about Lara and Keir. I enjoy watching them come to know and love each other. I love the secondary characters, like Marcus, Isidra, and Gils. Even Iften is a character I love to hate. And while Lara made me want to shake a little of the stupid out of her, I feel like she learned from the events of the book. She grew. Her relationship with Keir is tested and it comes out stronger for it. And speaking of Keir (**swoon**) –what a great hero. He is powerful and sexy and smart and really a good man. I love him.
There are some tough parts of this book. We lose some people we’ve grown to love. And loyalties are tested; and some of them break. But it’s in the emotion that this book shines. In the friendships and love, heartbreak and triumph. I’m glad I read it –now I’m onto book 3.
Rating: B-
August 18, 2011
This is the 2nd book in the Warlands series, and for me it was just about as good as Warprize. I really like the way Mrs. Vaughan can tell a story. I felt like I was right there with the people of the Plains. I enjoyed learning more about the Plains people and their customs. This story picks up were Warprize left off so if you haven't read it read it first. I love how Lara goes after what she wants, and how she does it so gracefully and courageously. I have enjoyed watching Lara and Keir's relationship grow, they have such a gentle and kind relationship, however there are some definite trust and honesty issues that are addressed as this story unfolds. Kier, Lara and his warriors stumble upon a village that they think is being hostile. When come to find out they are all sick and dying from an unknown plague. Lara, in her duty as a healer wants/demands that she helps these people. I have to say what was she thinking?? Plague usually means stay away, chances are you will get it too. Sure enough she and many of The Worriors with Kier end up sick and dieing. This does not set well with these people of the plains they are not use to this unseen enemy known as illness that kills. There are many ramifications for Kier and Lara over this illness that is amongst their people. I loved how it all played out, I love Kier, Lara and many of the other characters in this story. It was completely enjoyable to be back in this world.
no language
not a clean romance just tips over the edge into explicit. Which made me very sad, because the story is really good.
adult read
no language
not a clean romance just tips over the edge into explicit. Which made me very sad, because the story is really good.
adult read
May 8, 2017
Another great read in this series. I loved seeing Keir and Lara's relationship grow. It hit a few snags (I'm looking at you Lara), but in the end it was stronger for their struggles. There was still plenty of action and sadly, lots of deaths because of the sickness that swept through the army. I started hating a few more people and saw the depths of a lot more characters.
I wanted to slap Lara for certain decisions that she made, but at the same time, I knew that she was trying to stay true to who she was. Keir was trying so hard to join the 2 cultures and I admired his efforts and him in general. He was still so caring and took every opportunity to show Lara how much she meant to him.
Going to order book 3 right now.
I wanted to slap Lara for certain decisions that she made, but at the same time, I knew that she was trying to stay true to who she was. Keir was trying so hard to join the 2 cultures and I admired his efforts and him in general. He was still so caring and took every opportunity to show Lara how much she meant to him.
Going to order book 3 right now.
June 22, 2020
This is a continuation of the Chronicles of the Warlands series. This was hard to get through. Not because it was a bad story. But because it was good. I’m invested in these characters story and their lives. Which makes it hard to see them go through hard times. It was painful to see things start to go bad. And not just the loss of life but the obstacles and opposition that is starting to mount against Kier and Lara. That’s the part that was hard to get through. And it’s really only beginning. The next book is where they will face their most opposition I think.
September 8, 2024
The second installment is focussed mainly on Lara and how she copes within Keir's camp and society. Their bond is stronger with each day that goes by and any obstacle they overcome, but the plague is a test that will solidify or oblitarate it.
"No regrets. Whatever comes."
I was very pleasantly surprised with how well the author had thought out all their cultural differences, especially concerning family bonds or rituals.
"No regrets. Whatever comes."
I was very pleasantly surprised with how well the author had thought out all their cultural differences, especially concerning family bonds or rituals.
July 3, 2015
Not as good as the first book but a solid fantasy romance read. What I really enjoy about this series is that the adversities and plot twists feel real and are not overly dramatic as we often see in a lot of adult romance stories.
March 21, 2020
All I wanted was to read the second book in this fantasy romance and escape reality for a little bit. However, I soon learned that this book revolves around the plague. So, it turned out to not be much of an escape. I guess that's what I get for diving right in and not reading the synopsis.
While this story does take a much slower pace, there was still a lot that happens. Between Keir's second in command trying to take over, to Lara pretty much bringing the plague to Keir's people, there was quite a bit going on. It kind of felt like one really long, Lara doesn't listen, manipulates Keir into getting her way, and instead brings a lot of death and devastation with her. I get that she's a healer and wants to help everyone, but girl come on, the plague?! I could understand if she stumbled on it and didn't know what it was, but she does, and tricks Keir into allowing her and her guard to enter a plague ridden keep. Of course the people are beyond saving, she brings it back to Keir's people and they start dying. I swear, the choices this girl made during this book astounded me. If I were Keir, I'd toss her back to her people and ride like the devil himself was chasing me back to my homelands.
Phew. Yeah, to say I had some issues with Lara would be an understatement. How Keir makes it out of this alive is beyond me. That woman is a curse, but I digress. While the main character may have annoyed me beyond belief with her selfish and childish ways, I still enjoyed the story. I enjoyed getting to see the dynamics change among Keir's people as well as watching the plot thicken. I will still be tuning into the next book. I just hope Lara pulls herself out of her own little bubble and starts to realize the heat that they are in.
While this story does take a much slower pace, there was still a lot that happens. Between Keir's second in command trying to take over, to Lara pretty much bringing the plague to Keir's people, there was quite a bit going on. It kind of felt like one really long, Lara doesn't listen, manipulates Keir into getting her way, and instead brings a lot of death and devastation with her. I get that she's a healer and wants to help everyone, but girl come on, the plague?! I could understand if she stumbled on it and didn't know what it was, but she does, and tricks Keir into allowing her and her guard to enter a plague ridden keep. Of course the people are beyond saving, she brings it back to Keir's people and they start dying. I swear, the choices this girl made during this book astounded me. If I were Keir, I'd toss her back to her people and ride like the devil himself was chasing me back to my homelands.
Phew. Yeah, to say I had some issues with Lara would be an understatement. How Keir makes it out of this alive is beyond me. That woman is a curse, but I digress. While the main character may have annoyed me beyond belief with her selfish and childish ways, I still enjoyed the story. I enjoyed getting to see the dynamics change among Keir's people as well as watching the plot thicken. I will still be tuning into the next book. I just hope Lara pulls herself out of her own little bubble and starts to realize the heat that they are in.
May 31, 2024
Too much death from disease and suicide
This entire book is dedicated to the FMC ineffectually dealing with a plague, and the constant appearance of suicide in the barbarian society that dominates this series, which I personally find utterly horrifying. I couldn't get past 52%. I'm not going on with this series.
DNF.
This entire book is dedicated to the FMC ineffectually dealing with a plague, and the constant appearance of suicide in the barbarian society that dominates this series, which I personally find utterly horrifying. I couldn't get past 52%. I'm not going on with this series.
DNF.
November 3, 2018
**Spoilers**
Dang It!
I knew it was To Good To Be True..
While I enjoyed book one, book two, not so much.
Book two starts off a couple of days from the ending of book one, which was good.
I wanted to rate this book higher, but I could not.
I will list my Three reasons:
- Lara's ego
- Gils death
- The Plague lasted way too long in the book.
1.)
Lara quickly started getting on my Nerves.
She was insecure, whiny and basically a brat.
If she was not worrying about Keir and if he still cared about jer then she was going around with her
large inflated ego about her Healing Abilities.
She tries so hard to explain the Plague to Keir and his men and yet she insists on going into
of the village.
I thought she should have left medicine with instructions by the village's gate and then continued
on her journey to the Plains.
I wanted her to complete the ceremony and then return to her home, however, that was not in the cards.
I also couldn't believe that she did not speak with Keir about the agreement that she made with
her council and her first born child with Keir.
Lara, being her usual stubborn self had to check on the village people.
Ok, I understand her concern but we are talking about a "Plague"
not some regular illness of a few people, not broken bones or a pregnancy.
It was just too much for just one person to deal with..
She soon found out that there were only four survivors, three adults and a baby.
She could not save the adults, the baby was not infected, Lara ended up getting sick herself
AND, Epor became infected and died.
That made me very angry.
The author goes so far as to tell the Reader how important or special bonded couples are and
the only one that the reader gets to see so far are separated? WTH?
Why? Why would the author kill off one after stating how special they are?
I could not believe the turn the book / series has taken and Lara worked on my nerves too much.
She is a Healer, yes, but she is only one person.
How did she think she could save an entire village.
After she explained how series the plague is to the warriors, she then says:
"I will not allow this illness to spread. To your people or to mine." I looked
at Epor and Isdra. "Do you understand what you are risking?"
- She is way over confident, self absorbed, bordering on a "God Complex".
How does she know that she can contain the plague?
How does she know that it hasn't spread already?
Then, she goes even further and says:
"If all three of us sicken and all the villagers are dead. We must set fire to the village and kill
ourselves, to prevent the spread of the disease. "
- Really? Now she is just being a martyr...
Then Lara had to kept telling herself that she was doing the "right" thing and
that she had to lie or stretch the truth because Kier would not have allowed her to go into
of the village.
Her behavior and actions just came across as stupid, selfish and suicidal.
She never had experience with a plague before.
Iften challenging Keir, AGAIN, soon after his illness and
everyone going along with it was, ridiculous.
2.)
Gils being killed was ridiculous.
I thought that Gil would really be her apprentice, learn from Lara and stay with her.
Why would Lara say that she could not help him, when she knows what
they do to wounded warriors on the battlefield?
She did not even try to help Gils, she felt his far head that was it.
I can't believe after ALL of the people that Gils, helped that his thanks and reward
was for them to stab him in the heart with a dagger, WTF?!?
Why would the author kill him off? It made no sense.
Right after Keir was out of the woods, the author had to take another character,
just so that Iften could have an excuse to challenge Keir, a sick man.
There is no honor in that.
Iften worked on my nerves in the first book but he was worse in the second book.
He was nothing but a big ole complaining bully.
The entire scene was such BS!
I can NOT believe that Lara wanted to help Iften and his broken arm.
He wanted to kill Keir and would have if Isdra had not stepped in and attacked Iften.
Lara helped the ungrateful Iften more than she helped Gils.
3.)
Over seventy-five percent centered on the plague, who was affected, which herbs were used to treat the person.
I kept wondering where the author was going with it?
I know the whole purpose of the plague and the sickness was to bring the two main characters, Lara and Keir together
But, the plague lasted too long, took too many people and lasted over three-fourths of the book,
enough already.
Since most of the problems were worked out in book one and the two main characters had
a better understanding of each other, I thought that book two would have a little adventure
and more Romance than book one.
I guess I was wrong..
Dang It!
I knew it was To Good To Be True..
While I enjoyed book one, book two, not so much.
Book two starts off a couple of days from the ending of book one, which was good.
I wanted to rate this book higher, but I could not.
I will list my Three reasons:
- Lara's ego
- Gils death
- The Plague lasted way too long in the book.
1.)
Lara quickly started getting on my Nerves.
She was insecure, whiny and basically a brat.
If she was not worrying about Keir and if he still cared about jer then she was going around with her
large inflated ego about her Healing Abilities.
She tries so hard to explain the Plague to Keir and his men and yet she insists on going into
of the village.
I thought she should have left medicine with instructions by the village's gate and then continued
on her journey to the Plains.
I wanted her to complete the ceremony and then return to her home, however, that was not in the cards.
I also couldn't believe that she did not speak with Keir about the agreement that she made with
her council and her first born child with Keir.
Lara, being her usual stubborn self had to check on the village people.
Ok, I understand her concern but we are talking about a "Plague"
not some regular illness of a few people, not broken bones or a pregnancy.
It was just too much for just one person to deal with..
She soon found out that there were only four survivors, three adults and a baby.
She could not save the adults, the baby was not infected, Lara ended up getting sick herself
AND, Epor became infected and died.
That made me very angry.
The author goes so far as to tell the Reader how important or special bonded couples are and
the only one that the reader gets to see so far are separated? WTH?
Why? Why would the author kill off one after stating how special they are?
I could not believe the turn the book / series has taken and Lara worked on my nerves too much.
She is a Healer, yes, but she is only one person.
How did she think she could save an entire village.
After she explained how series the plague is to the warriors, she then says:
"I will not allow this illness to spread. To your people or to mine." I looked
at Epor and Isdra. "Do you understand what you are risking?"
- She is way over confident, self absorbed, bordering on a "God Complex".
How does she know that she can contain the plague?
How does she know that it hasn't spread already?
Then, she goes even further and says:
"If all three of us sicken and all the villagers are dead. We must set fire to the village and kill
ourselves, to prevent the spread of the disease. "
- Really? Now she is just being a martyr...
Then Lara had to kept telling herself that she was doing the "right" thing and
that she had to lie or stretch the truth because Kier would not have allowed her to go into
of the village.
Her behavior and actions just came across as stupid, selfish and suicidal.
She never had experience with a plague before.
Iften challenging Keir, AGAIN, soon after his illness and
everyone going along with it was, ridiculous.
2.)
Gils being killed was ridiculous.
I thought that Gil would really be her apprentice, learn from Lara and stay with her.
Why would Lara say that she could not help him, when she knows what
they do to wounded warriors on the battlefield?
She did not even try to help Gils, she felt his far head that was it.
I can't believe after ALL of the people that Gils, helped that his thanks and reward
was for them to stab him in the heart with a dagger, WTF?!?
Why would the author kill him off? It made no sense.
Right after Keir was out of the woods, the author had to take another character,
just so that Iften could have an excuse to challenge Keir, a sick man.
There is no honor in that.
Iften worked on my nerves in the first book but he was worse in the second book.
He was nothing but a big ole complaining bully.
The entire scene was such BS!
I can NOT believe that Lara wanted to help Iften and his broken arm.
He wanted to kill Keir and would have if Isdra had not stepped in and attacked Iften.
Lara helped the ungrateful Iften more than she helped Gils.
3.)
Over seventy-five percent centered on the plague, who was affected, which herbs were used to treat the person.
I kept wondering where the author was going with it?
I know the whole purpose of the plague and the sickness was to bring the two main characters, Lara and Keir together
But, the plague lasted too long, took too many people and lasted over three-fourths of the book,
enough already.
Since most of the problems were worked out in book one and the two main characters had
a better understanding of each other, I thought that book two would have a little adventure
and more Romance than book one.
I guess I was wrong..
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 13, 2015
"I didn't know what it meant."
"Didn't know what forever meant."
"'Forever' means every day, every breath. Through the mistakes that we make, through the love that we share between our bodies, through illness we suffer, through sorrow, grief, and joy. All of it, Lara."
"It's the total of all our shared moments, good and bad, perfect and ugly."
"What I am trying to say is that now that I do know what it means, it makes it mean so much more."
"Forever."
"One thing I know. I have no regret in claiming you as Warprize."
"And I have no regret making you claim me."
This book did an amazing job of demonstrating a real relationship as these quotes show. Lara and Keir go through a lot in this book, dealing with illness, death, grief, sorrow, mistakes, guilt, responsibilities, consequences, and a plethora of more, all while living in a real relationship. I absolutely loved Warprize more, but that doesn't mean that I didn't love this book, because I absolutely do! It showed such a good example of what a real relationship is and what it goes through. Cannot wait to read the next and last!!!
"Didn't know what forever meant."
"'Forever' means every day, every breath. Through the mistakes that we make, through the love that we share between our bodies, through illness we suffer, through sorrow, grief, and joy. All of it, Lara."
"It's the total of all our shared moments, good and bad, perfect and ugly."
"What I am trying to say is that now that I do know what it means, it makes it mean so much more."
"Forever."
"One thing I know. I have no regret in claiming you as Warprize."
"And I have no regret making you claim me."
This book did an amazing job of demonstrating a real relationship as these quotes show. Lara and Keir go through a lot in this book, dealing with illness, death, grief, sorrow, mistakes, guilt, responsibilities, consequences, and a plethora of more, all while living in a real relationship. I absolutely loved Warprize more, but that doesn't mean that I didn't love this book, because I absolutely do! It showed such a good example of what a real relationship is and what it goes through. Cannot wait to read the next and last!!!
July 4, 2017
First of all, this is a direct sequel to the first book; it starts a few days after the end of Warprize. While there is some recapping, I strongly suggest to read them in order to fully enjoy them.
About the book, I liked it. It continues the world building, which is very good as was the pace. Keir is a serious contender for book boyfriend. He's strong, both physically and emotionally, kind, loyal, loving thinks before acting (aside from a couple of instances he regrets) and he learns from his mistakes. He does have a temper but he's an alpha warlord, he has to have a temper. And despite being a self-proclaimed barbarian with no gift for words, he can really melt your heart when he tries.
Lara seemed a little whiner in than the previous book, but given everything she goes through, I think that's reasonable. She's still strong, determined, caring, had the will to fight for what she believed was right and stand up to anyone.
The secondary characters are great, so much that I really teared up when two died. The villain was a real *ss, as all villains should be.
The only weak point for me was the plot. Well, my problem was that we get no answers as to why or where the plague came and that was a big reason why she took the actions she took that led to everything else (I'm being vague as to not give spoilers). I'm not a big fun of the unknown but this might be a limitation of first person narrative as we only know what she knows. And we might find out more in the next book as the story hasn't been wrapped up yet.
Anyway, I really liked the book and I'm looking forward to the next ones.
About the book, I liked it. It continues the world building, which is very good as was the pace. Keir is a serious contender for book boyfriend. He's strong, both physically and emotionally, kind, loyal, loving thinks before acting (aside from a couple of instances he regrets) and he learns from his mistakes. He does have a temper but he's an alpha warlord, he has to have a temper. And despite being a self-proclaimed barbarian with no gift for words, he can really melt your heart when he tries.
Lara seemed a little whiner in than the previous book, but given everything she goes through, I think that's reasonable. She's still strong, determined, caring, had the will to fight for what she believed was right and stand up to anyone.
The secondary characters are great, so much that I really teared up when two died. The villain was a real *ss, as all villains should be.
The only weak point for me was the plot. Well, my problem was that we get no answers as to why or where the plague came and that was a big reason why she took the actions she took that led to everything else (I'm being vague as to not give spoilers). I'm not a big fun of the unknown but this might be a limitation of first person narrative as we only know what she knows. And we might find out more in the next book as the story hasn't been wrapped up yet.
Anyway, I really liked the book and I'm looking forward to the next ones.
May 15, 2015
Fantasy/RomanceStepped up a notch!
One thing I find lacking in the Historic Romance genre as a whole is a true sense of danger. For me, it's not til tragedy draws near that my heart fully commits, that the characters and their story become unforgettable.
This novel came close, very close. We have the unimaginable devastation of a plague hitting the warrior camp, with no allowance made for the poor reader's emotions.(That's a compliment.)
Plus, we have the increasing probability that Lara's position as Warprize, a highly honored and rare status, will be brutally denied by the elders when the army finally returns to their homeland. The ramifications of that would be devastating not just for Lara and Keir, but for Lara's entire country.
Keir still needs fleshing out for this story to attain a full 5 star rating, but Ms. Vaughan has me well hooked. I'm glad this series is already complete, as it looks like there will be no rest for me til I finish it:)
This one is not clean, there are 2-3 intimate scenes, brief and with little detail, though tastefully done. The language is clean.
One thing I find lacking in the Historic Romance genre as a whole is a true sense of danger. For me, it's not til tragedy draws near that my heart fully commits, that the characters and their story become unforgettable.
This novel came close, very close. We have the unimaginable devastation of a plague hitting the warrior camp, with no allowance made for the poor reader's emotions.(That's a compliment.)
Plus, we have the increasing probability that Lara's position as Warprize, a highly honored and rare status, will be brutally denied by the elders when the army finally returns to their homeland. The ramifications of that would be devastating not just for Lara and Keir, but for Lara's entire country.
Keir still needs fleshing out for this story to attain a full 5 star rating, but Ms. Vaughan has me well hooked. I'm glad this series is already complete, as it looks like there will be no rest for me til I finish it:)
This one is not clean, there are 2-3 intimate scenes, brief and with little detail, though tastefully done. The language is clean.
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