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Dark Tales of Randamor the Recluse #3
The Invisible Chains - Part 3: Bonds of Blood
Anaxantis, prince of Ximerion.
Not certain who he can trust, Anaxantis keeps recruiting and training troops, with dogged tenacity, to face the barbarian invasion.
Who is the spy, leaking information to his father, the high king? What to do about the new arrival who tries to free his brother? Was the barbarian prince really captured or does he have a hidden agenda?
Amid all the preparations for war, Lorcko of Iramid is looking for love. True love, this time. However, his reputation is working against him.
Anaxantis has his own troubles in the love department.
Soon he will be forced to make some hard decisions. Is he up to it, or will he finally buckle down under the strain?
Not certain who he can trust, Anaxantis keeps recruiting and training troops, with dogged tenacity, to face the barbarian invasion.
Who is the spy, leaking information to his father, the high king? What to do about the new arrival who tries to free his brother? Was the barbarian prince really captured or does he have a hidden agenda?
Amid all the preparations for war, Lorcko of Iramid is looking for love. True love, this time. However, his reputation is working against him.
Anaxantis has his own troubles in the love department.
Soon he will be forced to make some hard decisions. Is he up to it, or will he finally buckle down under the strain?
Kindle Edition
First published June 28, 2011
9 people are currently reading
186 people want to read
About the author
Andrew Ashling
19 books175 followersI write mainly Epic Historical Fantasy with Gay Main Characters
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You can read the first twelve chapters of the Dark Tales of Randamor the Recluse series on my website, Ximerion .
----------
If you'd like me to send you an email when I release a new book, you can subscribe to my New Releases Newsletter
----------
You can follow me on Bluesky
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I have no great literary ambitions. I just tell stories, and I try to do it as good as I can, hoping other people will enjoy reading them.
Most of them have explicit scenes in them, often of a rather kinky nature. But they're only the raisins in the pudding, because — as I already said — I actually enjoy telling stories. That means there always is a plot, or, more often, several plots.
I love exploring what makes people tick, what makes them do the often quirky things they do. Also, I enjoy playing with expectations, boundaries, taboos even.
I don't think I'm going to send out friend requests myself. I write stuff and people get the impression that you only want to befriend them to get them to read your work and write reviews.
That's not to say I don't want friends (or reviews, for that matter). If you want to befriend me, just send me an invitation. I will almost certainly accept.
If you have questions, or remarks, or you need to contact me for another reason, you're very welcome to do so through this contact form .
Andrew
----------
You can read the first twelve chapters of the Dark Tales of Randamor the Recluse series on my website, Ximerion .
----------
If you'd like me to send you an email when I release a new book, you can subscribe to my New Releases Newsletter
----------
You can follow me on Bluesky
----------
I have no great literary ambitions. I just tell stories, and I try to do it as good as I can, hoping other people will enjoy reading them.
Most of them have explicit scenes in them, often of a rather kinky nature. But they're only the raisins in the pudding, because — as I already said — I actually enjoy telling stories. That means there always is a plot, or, more often, several plots.
I love exploring what makes people tick, what makes them do the often quirky things they do. Also, I enjoy playing with expectations, boundaries, taboos even.
I don't think I'm going to send out friend requests myself. I write stuff and people get the impression that you only want to befriend them to get them to read your work and write reviews.
That's not to say I don't want friends (or reviews, for that matter). If you want to befriend me, just send me an invitation. I will almost certainly accept.
If you have questions, or remarks, or you need to contact me for another reason, you're very welcome to do so through this contact form .
Andrew
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
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March 9, 2015Oh, hello there. *cracks knuckles* *clears throat*
Wanna talk about this one? Huh. Alright.
Can you say furious? Enraged? Exasperated? Even a little bit hurt?
[Um, this review is not PG-13. But then nothing I say is ever PG-13.]
Andrew Ashling, I love you. I really do. You're a master storyteller, you have a twisted mind, you're clever, you're cool. I like you. But this, here, was a major fail.
I don't consider this a spoiler, because I knew from the beginning that there was a 50% chance for the series to end like this, but it irks me when even the smallest details aren't put under spoiler tags (which I then read anyway, but that's beside the point) so I'll do this for people like me.
Here. I've said it.
Also - this appears in the first two books, so shut up because it's not a spoiler - will you just shut up already with that split personality shit? I get it, you were traumatised, poor Anaxantis, but that doesn't mean everyone has MPD. Ehandar is one person and one person only, unless he's disturbed or possessed. The fact that you see two, three, however the fuck many people in him doesn't mean he's anything other than a human. A human you dehumanised.
Does it show that I'm mad as hell? Because I am.
But hey, other than that, this was still great. It has adventure; war - okay, AA, you could've done a better job with that: someone had to die, to keep things real; sexy man love - not too explicit, but then I'm pervy, so don't trust me; friendship - straying into bromance territory, which is fucking awesome as far as I'm concerned; humour; sadness; yadda yadda, all of the feels. Everything, really. Makes this whole series kind of an all-encompassing, true-to-life story, but not quite. Because dehumanisation and slavery disguised as love. (Which I suppose must have happened at least a few times in real life, but fuck me if I care.)
I could talk about all the secondary characters I fell in love with (or hated), all the events that made my heart pound, all the scenes that made my soul melt. But I won't, for two reasons. One, it's all so delightful and well done that you deserve, you need, to read it for yourself. Two, I'm too mad to think about anything other than that... that- abomination.
So there you go; I loved this novel, then I hated it. How the fuck do you rate this?
Wanna talk about this one? Huh. Alright.
Can you say furious? Enraged? Exasperated? Even a little bit hurt?
[Um, this review is not PG-13. But then nothing I say is ever PG-13.]
Andrew Ashling, I love you. I really do. You're a master storyteller, you have a twisted mind, you're clever, you're cool. I like you. But this, here, was a major fail.
I don't consider this a spoiler, because I knew from the beginning that there was a 50% chance for the series to end like this, but it irks me when even the smallest details aren't put under spoiler tags (which I then read anyway, but that's beside the point) so I'll do this for people like me.
Here. I've said it.
Also - this appears in the first two books, so shut up because it's not a spoiler - will you just shut up already with that split personality shit? I get it, you were traumatised, poor Anaxantis, but that doesn't mean everyone has MPD. Ehandar is one person and one person only, unless he's disturbed or possessed. The fact that you see two, three, however the fuck many people in him doesn't mean he's anything other than a human. A human you dehumanised.
Does it show that I'm mad as hell? Because I am.
But hey, other than that, this was still great. It has adventure; war - okay, AA, you could've done a better job with that: someone had to die, to keep things real; sexy man love - not too explicit, but then I'm pervy, so don't trust me; friendship - straying into bromance territory, which is fucking awesome as far as I'm concerned; humour; sadness; yadda yadda, all of the feels. Everything, really. Makes this whole series kind of an all-encompassing, true-to-life story, but not quite. Because dehumanisation and slavery disguised as love. (Which I suppose must have happened at least a few times in real life, but fuck me if I care.)
I could talk about all the secondary characters I fell in love with (or hated), all the events that made my heart pound, all the scenes that made my soul melt. But I won't, for two reasons. One, it's all so delightful and well done that you deserve, you need, to read it for yourself. Two, I'm too mad to think about anything other than that... that- abomination.
So there you go; I loved this novel, then I hated it. How the fuck do you rate this?
July 25, 2011
In my review for book 1, I talked about the plot, for book 2, the writing.
For this book, I have to talk about the battle. I don't think that's giving anything away since by about page 10 of the first book, you know there's gonna be a battle. With most ancient times books that involve a battle, usually my eyes kind of glaze over when the author starts talking about tactics and maneuvers. I don't get it, and I probably never will. For this book, I totally understood what was happening at every moment. The author includes maps showing troop positioning throughout the battle which goes a long way towards helping me conceptualize what's going on.
The battle itself is impressive because of it's complexity. Not many authors can write about military tactics. And throught most of it, you STILL aren't sure how it's all going to end! I loved that! Because the author isn't afraid to damage his characters, as you read, you aren't sure if anyone comes out of the battle in one piece or even alive.
Oh, and the characters. Every time Ryhunzo goes on one of his rants, I die laughing! He's one of the funniest characters of all time. All the characters are really amazing. They each have their own unique voice, a great deal of depth and are very well fleshed-out.
Again, I was just so very impressed with the depth and breadth of every aspect of this series. I can't wait to see what else Andrew Ashling comes out with!!!!
For this book, I have to talk about the battle. I don't think that's giving anything away since by about page 10 of the first book, you know there's gonna be a battle. With most ancient times books that involve a battle, usually my eyes kind of glaze over when the author starts talking about tactics and maneuvers. I don't get it, and I probably never will. For this book, I totally understood what was happening at every moment. The author includes maps showing troop positioning throughout the battle which goes a long way towards helping me conceptualize what's going on.
The battle itself is impressive because of it's complexity. Not many authors can write about military tactics. And throught most of it, you STILL aren't sure how it's all going to end! I loved that! Because the author isn't afraid to damage his characters, as you read, you aren't sure if anyone comes out of the battle in one piece or even alive.
Oh, and the characters. Every time Ryhunzo goes on one of his rants, I die laughing! He's one of the funniest characters of all time. All the characters are really amazing. They each have their own unique voice, a great deal of depth and are very well fleshed-out.
Again, I was just so very impressed with the depth and breadth of every aspect of this series. I can't wait to see what else Andrew Ashling comes out with!!!!
May 5, 2012
Good conclusion to the trilogy. It made my brain happy that Ashling stopped with the fantasy-name-abuse and just wrote the story; I think it helped he had a great big battle to get his teeth into. Very satisfactory ending.
January 15, 2015
Truly stirring conclusion. This has ended up one of my favorite fantasy series, exemplifying why I love this genre. I read so much fantasy, but this is a story that will stay with me, thanks in large part to the grueling journey we undergo with these two brothers. No other fantasy series I've read goes this far in delving into the psychological impact of crime, guilt, punishment, expiation, and redemption from the perspective of both the offender and the victim. As painful as the process is, as sorry as I felt for Ehandar, I had to remind myself that his was no small crime--and what Ashling does with it is just so complex and unexpected, revealing dimensions in both boys' natures that could never be revealed in any other context. Their harrowing private conflict is set against an amazing canvas of epic battles, dynastic maneuverings, and a host of memorable characters (including the peerless Ryhunzo, alias pookie, and his great love, Rahendo). The writing has just gotten better, and amazingly, the next series, The Invisible Hands - Part 1: Gambit, which continues their story, is better still.
This is definitely for fantasy addicts, but for that lucky group of readers, you are in for a hell of a ride.
Added: Extra word of praise for perhaps my favorite scene in the history of the genre: Obyann, Ryhunzo and Arranulf discussing, (cough, cough), the manly sport of wrestling.
This is definitely for fantasy addicts, but for that lucky group of readers, you are in for a hell of a ride.
Added: Extra word of praise for perhaps my favorite scene in the history of the genre: Obyann, Ryhunzo and Arranulf discussing, (cough, cough), the manly sport of wrestling.
September 6, 2011
This, the third installment of the "Invisible Chains" trilogy, was in my opinion the best, with the first a close second. Mr. Ashling masterfully laid out the climax of the series: the battle for the Northern Marches and the resolution of the troubled relationship between the two princes, Anaxantis and Ehandar. In spite of my lingering frustration with the lack of "cleanup" editing (typos abound), by the end I didn't care all that much. This is a testament to Mr. Ashling's unique voice and his knack for creating characters that are wonderfully flawed and irresistible.
MILD SPOILERS FOLLOW:
I do hope that Mr. Ashling will consider a re-edit of these books, if only to do justice to the intelligence and strength of the writing. The same is true for another point that has been discussed in some of the reviews: use of modern language in the stories. I realize now that the modern language only bothered me when it crept into the narrative itself. Since most of the narrative is in a more formal voice, this "ragged edge" could also be taken care of in a re-edit. With these two caveats, I'd have given the entire series a 5-star.
In spite of the minor blemishes, Mr. Ashling delivers a brilliantly executed story that I will probably reread at some point. Five stars for the outstanding story-telling and character development, as well as the intricate and intelligent plotting throughout.
MILD SPOILERS FOLLOW:
I do hope that Mr. Ashling will consider a re-edit of these books, if only to do justice to the intelligence and strength of the writing. The same is true for another point that has been discussed in some of the reviews: use of modern language in the stories. I realize now that the modern language only bothered me when it crept into the narrative itself. Since most of the narrative is in a more formal voice, this "ragged edge" could also be taken care of in a re-edit. With these two caveats, I'd have given the entire series a 5-star.
In spite of the minor blemishes, Mr. Ashling delivers a brilliantly executed story that I will probably reread at some point. Five stars for the outstanding story-telling and character development, as well as the intricate and intelligent plotting throughout.
July 24, 2011
Once regarded as the underling, the least threatening and far less likely to defend the Realm, young Anaxantis cunningly planned his ascendance to supremacy not as the most deserving prince but as a revered warlord and an unstoppable juggernaut. He hoped against hope to fight a war. Will he win it too against all odds? While the reasons to go into battle were obvious to all, there was one that was known to him alone.
“Yes, us...Where they couldn't get at us. And that is what I did. What I am still doing.”
True love, obscurity par excellence, was vindicated. War was its testimony. While the first two books were about rawness, growing up and manning up, this final chapter is about gumption, mastery, redemption, retribution, acceptance and worthiness.
The Dark Tales of Randamor the Recluse series was one the most if not the most captivating m/m series I have ever read. I do not even know how to classify it because it is but it really isn’t. I do know that it is in its own world of awesomeness and I was so in it.
“Yes, us...Where they couldn't get at us. And that is what I did. What I am still doing.”
True love, obscurity par excellence, was vindicated. War was its testimony. While the first two books were about rawness, growing up and manning up, this final chapter is about gumption, mastery, redemption, retribution, acceptance and worthiness.
The Dark Tales of Randamor the Recluse series was one the most if not the most captivating m/m series I have ever read. I do not even know how to classify it because it is but it really isn’t. I do know that it is in its own world of awesomeness and I was so in it.
June 1, 2017
I'm ridiculously happy that there are 3 more books in this series, cause althought I enjoyed the book that ending was not satisfying. Some dark and twisted, I love it.
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November 15, 2012Listen to my fangirl squee. Oh, this was late in coming, but AHMAGAAAAAWD.
Hmm...something weird... Is Tarno or isn't he a separate entity? Like, DID? Hard to tell; it's abstractly vague on that...
I think Tarno is much more a separate entity of sorts then Ehandar admits. Even Randamor admits, maybe.
Likewise I'll refrain from rating if/when I ever actually read this.
But hot damn. The ending. Ashling really does weave a complicated web of characterization and character intent.
Either way, I can't wait until the next one...
I think Tarno is much more a separate entity of sorts then Ehandar admits. Even Randamor admits, maybe.
Likewise I'll refrain from rating if/when I ever actually read this.
But hot damn. The ending. Ashling really does weave a complicated web of characterization and character intent.
Either way, I can't wait until the next one...
August 31, 2011
So the saga ends and even though I wish I could have rated this imaginative tale higher, the modern language is just too damn jarring to ignore. Not to mention some of the characters just grated on my last nerve and their side stories did nothing to advance the plot. I'm sure a lot of readers found Ryhunzo and his paramour really sweet and cute, but they just annoyed me like the little ukes they were.
There are some great examples of fantasy novels which feature M/M couples--Wicked Gentlemen, Luck in the Shadows--which get everything right. That's why I'd hoped The Invisible Chains series would be comparable. Then again, I freely admit to being a fantasy snob, LOL and I realize there are aspects that I need in order for me to feel totally immersed in a fantasy realm. Worse, I got the feeling that the author really wanted to make Anaxantis' behavior towards his brother more acceptable and understandable, not to mention his decisions regarding war. As a fantasy reader, I don't need that. I like for my heroes to be wonderfully flawed, to do things that raise an eyebrow or make me think "OMG, why are you doing that?" Trust me, without the uncessary inner dialog, Anaxantis was just fine, thank you.
Even the battle scene didn't read as epic as I'd hoped, though the maps were a nice touch. The fact that only one of the good guys was seriously wounded just made me face-palm. War is a nasty, brutal business and it would have read more realistic had some of Anaxantis' decisions led to the demise of characters I might have grown to love (like some of the pages or even Hermachidas). Oh well, again that's me. On the other hand, what did I expect? There was going to be a happily ever after.
There are some great examples of fantasy novels which feature M/M couples--Wicked Gentlemen, Luck in the Shadows--which get everything right. That's why I'd hoped The Invisible Chains series would be comparable. Then again, I freely admit to being a fantasy snob, LOL and I realize there are aspects that I need in order for me to feel totally immersed in a fantasy realm. Worse, I got the feeling that the author really wanted to make Anaxantis' behavior towards his brother more acceptable and understandable, not to mention his decisions regarding war. As a fantasy reader, I don't need that. I like for my heroes to be wonderfully flawed, to do things that raise an eyebrow or make me think "OMG, why are you doing that?" Trust me, without the uncessary inner dialog, Anaxantis was just fine, thank you.
Even the battle scene didn't read as epic as I'd hoped, though the maps were a nice touch. The fact that only one of the good guys was seriously wounded just made me face-palm. War is a nasty, brutal business and it would have read more realistic had some of Anaxantis' decisions led to the demise of characters I might have grown to love (like some of the pages or even Hermachidas). Oh well, again that's me. On the other hand, what did I expect? There was going to be a happily ever after.
March 22, 2012
Andrew Ashling's story telling gets deeper, more intricately planned and funnier. Be warned, my review may contain small spoilers. In the third book in the Dark Tales of Randamor the Recluse series, "Bonds of Blood", he brings in the Mukthars and their prince, Timishi. The Mukthars are the sworn enemies for which the the War Lord, Anaxantis, has been preparing. They are fierce, have bad manners and, of course, are sexy as hell.
At this juncture, Andrew has made me feel like an intimate friend of the pages as well. Their story, while very light on actual combat, is clearly a major tactical play. I love to hear poor Obyann complain about his charges nakedness and their apparent love of each other's bodies. Andrew has funny and horny all mixed up with these guys and its a great combination.
Finally, I must say that, typically, descriptions of battles either bore me or completely mix me up. Andrew's descriptions, including battle plans and maps, made the battle scenes come alive for me and I was totally able to follow the action. There was never a point where I thought --and a miracle happens here-- in order to end the scene.
I understand Andrew has another series, or continuation of this series, almost ready for his loyal followers. Whatever it is, you can bet it will quickly find its way onto my e-reader and into my heart. Thank you Andrew, for the wonderful read and marvelous entertainment you've given me through your words.
At this juncture, Andrew has made me feel like an intimate friend of the pages as well. Their story, while very light on actual combat, is clearly a major tactical play. I love to hear poor Obyann complain about his charges nakedness and their apparent love of each other's bodies. Andrew has funny and horny all mixed up with these guys and its a great combination.
Finally, I must say that, typically, descriptions of battles either bore me or completely mix me up. Andrew's descriptions, including battle plans and maps, made the battle scenes come alive for me and I was totally able to follow the action. There was never a point where I thought --and a miracle happens here-- in order to end the scene.
I understand Andrew has another series, or continuation of this series, almost ready for his loyal followers. Whatever it is, you can bet it will quickly find its way onto my e-reader and into my heart. Thank you Andrew, for the wonderful read and marvelous entertainment you've given me through your words.
April 19, 2012
Final of the trio. Best of them all. Absolutely wonderful, edgy, brutal, loving and unforgettable.
May 28, 2012
Andrew has the ability to suspend belief and make you believe you are reading an historical account of someone's life, or, like Ava March, you are reading a fictional account of a real time period, it really does not cross your mind that you are reading a piece of fiction set in a fictional world and time period!
When you do realize that, the author's talent for creating this world is even more apparent! I usually need to take a break from period pieces, real or fictional, however, so much happened in this book, and I got so much more wrapped up in the characters, I couldn't resist going there again so I immediately started "The Invisible Hands Bk 1: Gambit"!!!
The events built up in books 1 and 2 come to a head in this book, and a battle does take place, but that is probably not until you are over halfway in the book, which means you spend a lot of time with the characters, their stories and develop an attachment to them, needless to say, there is a bit of heartbreak after the battle and who is lost. It stands to reason, but there was one point I was bawling my face off and I've mentioned before in other reviews, when a book can pull that much emotion out of me, I consider it a great book (which by some opinions, probably makes me weird, but that is not news to me!) so yes, I consider this a great book!
However, I'm not sure how to write a review without giving too much away for what I love about it, aside from saying that if you enjoy fantasy books, medieval eras and like the idea of it having elements of M/M pairings, you will enjoy these books.
What I will say, is I thought it was a very interesting and surprising ending (for now) with Anaxantis and Tarno/Ehandar, I wondered how Anaxantis would take care of him if something had happened to him during the battle. I hope Arranulf gets a break sometime where he can get the attention of the one he wants. I still very much adore Rahendo and feel protective of him and Arranulf. Ryhunzo, well, he is still quite the character, sounds like he has fantasies of going out in a blaze of glory, but so far, he has not hurt Rahendo, which is good! The story arc with Lorcko, Ambrick and later Timishi was very interesting, very unexpected. I was happy for Lorcko, and despite what Ambrick tried to set up a few times, still felt a certain amount of compassion for what his character experienced by the end, although I could understand the motivation behind what the Mukthars did, and appreciated that Lorcko was oblivious to that part of the battle and aftermath, he has enough to weigh him down without thinking of that and possibly thinking he led Ambrick to it, even though it was all Ambrick's choices and manipulations that led him to where he ended up!
The battle scenes were very exciting, and how the prisoners are dealt with, well, Timishi and Hermachidas are probably right about how it will affect Anaxantis, but Anaxantis is also stuck between the possibilities of what to do and what message is sent to the other parts of the country by what choice he makes. And he does this while still the ripe old age of 17! He really is an amazing character.
I have been warned that the heartache I experienced with this book and it's characters is not the end, which makes sense, so I go into the next series with excitement, anticipation and trepidation, but I know it will be a great read and a fantastic journey into another world because these books seem to get better and better.
When you do realize that, the author's talent for creating this world is even more apparent! I usually need to take a break from period pieces, real or fictional, however, so much happened in this book, and I got so much more wrapped up in the characters, I couldn't resist going there again so I immediately started "The Invisible Hands Bk 1: Gambit"!!!
The events built up in books 1 and 2 come to a head in this book, and a battle does take place, but that is probably not until you are over halfway in the book, which means you spend a lot of time with the characters, their stories and develop an attachment to them, needless to say, there is a bit of heartbreak after the battle and who is lost. It stands to reason, but there was one point I was bawling my face off and I've mentioned before in other reviews, when a book can pull that much emotion out of me, I consider it a great book (which by some opinions, probably makes me weird, but that is not news to me!) so yes, I consider this a great book!
However, I'm not sure how to write a review without giving too much away for what I love about it, aside from saying that if you enjoy fantasy books, medieval eras and like the idea of it having elements of M/M pairings, you will enjoy these books.
What I will say, is I thought it was a very interesting and surprising ending (for now) with Anaxantis and Tarno/Ehandar, I wondered how Anaxantis would take care of him if something had happened to him during the battle. I hope Arranulf gets a break sometime where he can get the attention of the one he wants. I still very much adore Rahendo and feel protective of him and Arranulf. Ryhunzo, well, he is still quite the character, sounds like he has fantasies of going out in a blaze of glory, but so far, he has not hurt Rahendo, which is good! The story arc with Lorcko, Ambrick and later Timishi was very interesting, very unexpected. I was happy for Lorcko, and despite what Ambrick tried to set up a few times, still felt a certain amount of compassion for what his character experienced by the end, although I could understand the motivation behind what the Mukthars did, and appreciated that Lorcko was oblivious to that part of the battle and aftermath, he has enough to weigh him down without thinking of that and possibly thinking he led Ambrick to it, even though it was all Ambrick's choices and manipulations that led him to where he ended up!
The battle scenes were very exciting, and how the prisoners are dealt with, well, Timishi and Hermachidas are probably right about how it will affect Anaxantis, but Anaxantis is also stuck between the possibilities of what to do and what message is sent to the other parts of the country by what choice he makes. And he does this while still the ripe old age of 17! He really is an amazing character.
I have been warned that the heartache I experienced with this book and it's characters is not the end, which makes sense, so I go into the next series with excitement, anticipation and trepidation, but I know it will be a great read and a fantastic journey into another world because these books seem to get better and better.
January 30, 2015
“ I want my Ehandar back. My proud, haughty, grumpy Ehandar. Who stays with me because he wants to, not because he feels he must. Not because he thinks he has to make up for what he did, but who stays because he loves me, pure and simple.
“It's you I want.”
My sentiments exactly Anaxantis.
There's so many new love budding in this book but I couldn't care less of their love lives. Everybody was like falling in love in this book but Ehandar was still deep in lala-land and didn't get more pages for himself . It was frustrating because I was looking for more Ehandar and Anaxantis' development all throughout this book.
And as I slowly lose Ehandar, I was hating Anaxantis more and more. At least, I like Obyann okay. He's funny and I like his character. There are new characters everywhere, I wonder how the author keeps track of them. And the names, jfc, it hurts my head just trying to remembering them.
I have a one-sided love and hate relationship with Anaxantis but I still can't hide the fact that I admire him despite of my issues with him and this book. He's clever and brave. And I like the fact that he's such a loyal leader to both his people and his friends.
On the other characters, how Arranulf, Obyann, Rohendo and Ryhunzo survived while in the middle of the battlefield was beyond me. I just wanted to smack each and everyone of them for running towards the death zone despite the fact that they didn't have proper training. Hoh! well, miracles happen.
Anyway, in the end, Randamor just made me feel guilty for feeling more sorry for Ehandar than Anaxantis.
Your cruelty and lack of compassion have tired me.
I might not have enough compassion for Anaxantis but everybody gets to choose his/her side and I chose Ehandar's. I'd been in Ehandar's side since I started this book.
You couldn't take my guilt away and to even the balance you became guilty yourself.
Though, Anaxantis sure did gets a lot from Ehandar.
Oh well, what everything boils down to in Ehandar and Anaxantis' relatiosnhip is that the end justifies the means. Anaxantis got what he wanted in the end.
What I like most in this book are the after war events. It's bloody obvious why this book got an extra star.
Review posted on 01/06/15
September 3, 2011
The saga ends and I have to say it's an example on how to tell a story. While the previous two books were all about developing the characters and furthering all the different plots, this last book brings the conclusion in a way that is beyond all my expectations. Not only did Anaxantis go from runt of the litter to conqueror and vanquisher of all his enemies, including his father and two brothers, he also conquers himself.
I would have loved to have more, would have happily read a fourth book to see where Hermachridas and Arranulf go, if they go together; get to see more of Rahendo and Ryhunzo, who make the story worth reading all on their own; see Obie and his beloved be married and have at least a dozen kids, but most of all, I would have liked to see Anaxantis and Ehandar have an 'honest to goodness' HEA. It's all in the imagination, so I imagine it happened. Still, the author would have told it better.
My only peeve, and notice it didn't bother me enough to take any stars off, was the lack of grammar editing. Yes, I'm stupid that way, it yanks me out at times to stumble on little stuff like that, which could have been easily fixed.
Anyway, if you like epic romance with rugged, beautiful military men, this is an excellent choice. Don't pass it up!
I would have loved to have more, would have happily read a fourth book to see where Hermachridas and Arranulf go, if they go together; get to see more of Rahendo and Ryhunzo, who make the story worth reading all on their own; see Obie and his beloved be married and have at least a dozen kids, but most of all, I would have liked to see Anaxantis and Ehandar have an 'honest to goodness' HEA. It's all in the imagination, so I imagine it happened. Still, the author would have told it better.
My only peeve, and notice it didn't bother me enough to take any stars off, was the lack of grammar editing. Yes, I'm stupid that way, it yanks me out at times to stumble on little stuff like that, which could have been easily fixed.
Anyway, if you like epic romance with rugged, beautiful military men, this is an excellent choice. Don't pass it up!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 29, 2011
An excellent book! A real page turner. You CARE about these people!
Well worth the read by any fantasy/intrigue/romance/historical fiction book lover who will appreciate the carefully crafted world created by the trilogy. There is some highly charged m/m sexual content in some parts, including non-consensual sex and some enslavement. Yet there are some very comedic characters, whose antics and conversations will have you laughing out loud, sections which lighten the tension. The battle plans are well thought out and well written and the many characters lend depth to the numerous plots being followed.
Hopefully, the end really is only a pause as I want to know what happens next? Did I hear a fourth book is on the way? A new trilogy...??
Ashling is a very skillful and competent writer, a really good storyteller.
P.S. The story has small places that make it read like it was written in a different language and translated into English, with a few translation, etc., errors.
Well worth the read by any fantasy/intrigue/romance/historical fiction book lover who will appreciate the carefully crafted world created by the trilogy. There is some highly charged m/m sexual content in some parts, including non-consensual sex and some enslavement. Yet there are some very comedic characters, whose antics and conversations will have you laughing out loud, sections which lighten the tension. The battle plans are well thought out and well written and the many characters lend depth to the numerous plots being followed.
Hopefully, the end really is only a pause as I want to know what happens next? Did I hear a fourth book is on the way? A new trilogy...??
Ashling is a very skillful and competent writer, a really good storyteller.
P.S. The story has small places that make it read like it was written in a different language and translated into English, with a few translation, etc., errors.
November 5, 2011
A great book 3 to cap off this series. I really wish that the author would write a 4th book or maybe a 2nd series as a follow-up. Again, very solid plot that remains coherent despite its complexity -- this is probably my greatest source of admiration for the world that the author has woven. Often, I'll begin a novel only to grow irritated by meaningless microscopic plotlines or descriptions that obscure the direction of the plot and characters -- the writer has organized both characters and events very clearly in all three of the books in this series. The writing is strong, the world building extremely well done and the characters will engage you. Highly recommended.
March 5, 2019
There's nothing I can say that I haven't already in the first two parts so I won't get into anything lengthy even though I could talk about this story forever. I adore and am very attached to this story, the world of Ximerion and its characters. Out of all three parts, this is probably the one I'm drawn to the most. All the build-up, all the tension, everything pays off here. The events before, during and after the battle are spectacular and I GOT it. Excellent, loved it all!
June 17, 2023
Gahhh... I'm really rating the trilogy four stars rather than this single part of it, bc although each book has its own arc, it definitely is a single story, without a clear resolution until here (and even here, some threads are left dangling). And I have kind of mixed feelings. On the one hand, some of the violence of these books leaves me grossed out and skipping pages, and the page sections can get boring and too sexual for me to enjoy when they're about teenage boys. On the other hand, the character arcs are good and complex, and I love the politicking and the intricate webs of relationships. Like who the fuck saw anything about Lorcko's plotline coming? and I still don't know where that's headed! it was so boring in book 2 and so wild in book 3, omg.
Also: I do not know where this is going but I think I will need to continue the series.
Also: I do not know where this is going but I think I will need to continue the series.
May 12, 2019
Wow! So Many Twists and Turns.
I had no idea what to expect from the author or his characters when I started this book trilogy. I must admit that I've been blown away by the excellent writing and editing that keep this series moving along at a fast pace with enough plot lines to keep you wondering where this is going and who's going to make it all the way to the end of the series.
I honestly think our young Prince would be a.grandmaster chess payer as he was always thinking 20 moves ahead at any given time. What is truly mind boggling is the whole trilogy takes place in a title over 13 months. The 5 months Anaxantis was held and the 8 months that he held his big brother.
What I do know is that I can't wait to see what the next book holds.
I had no idea what to expect from the author or his characters when I started this book trilogy. I must admit that I've been blown away by the excellent writing and editing that keep this series moving along at a fast pace with enough plot lines to keep you wondering where this is going and who's going to make it all the way to the end of the series.
I honestly think our young Prince would be a.grandmaster chess payer as he was always thinking 20 moves ahead at any given time. What is truly mind boggling is the whole trilogy takes place in a title over 13 months. The 5 months Anaxantis was held and the 8 months that he held his big brother.
What I do know is that I can't wait to see what the next book holds.
June 21, 2016
Strangely enough I came across this books needing a light easy read and boy was I in for a srprise.
Where do you start? I would have liked to have scored the 3 books higher but I felt there were a few story lines that thought wrong and unnecessary. But who am I, I am not the author only the audience.
I liked the structure of the novel with short chapters switching from one character to another. Though I must admit the progression of the narrators relationship with the listener a bit odd. But heh Ho
I liked the way Andrew ashling introduces people and builds up their good or bad see. There where a few twists where I was thrown where the romantic in me was disappointed that the count de not get his boy but in the end he did get his man. But the others ending. You also wonder is Andrew building us up for a flanger in the later books when lorcko finds out about his fakers demise. If so that will be disappointing.
I agree with one reviewer along the line the main storyline of Anaaxantis and Ehandar I felt was wrong , and to be honest the only thing that kept me going was the image on the front cove of book 3.where y had both crests displayed. Yes what Ehandar did was horrific but equally what was done to home was just as bad. Rape weather it is of the body or the mind is wrong and you get a feeling that Ehandar I'll end up the bad guy even with the end of book 3. I do hope that the apparent need for authors these days to have twists and turns-everywhere off putting. We the subsidence needy so much into reading the books , care should be taken of our delicate minds and hearts.
I know that the book is a fantasy set in a different world when men where men and women where women but a
Anaaxantis and Ehandar where just glorified boys brought up in a ruthless environment. I felt that the author could have done more about boys struggling to be men. Ehandars wish to leave it all behind and break for the border would have been an interesting one but in essence we know the ending in as much as the dialogue between narrator and listener.
One could go on and on. I and a third of the way through gambit and enjoying but I do hope, Andrew, that the twists and turns are not too severe. Would love to see Ana and Ehandar making to the end and their love surviving it. I don't know if I like hermachidads and definitely if he ends up being mr Darcy it will be disappointing.
As I say a great read, some great characters,loads of laughs, tears (had to read the last chatter of book 3 a few times. I think in here Ana sees that he was as much a rapist as Ehandar was. Perhaps there is salvation for all.
The names, it makes writing a review impossible.
Where do you start? I would have liked to have scored the 3 books higher but I felt there were a few story lines that thought wrong and unnecessary. But who am I, I am not the author only the audience.
I liked the structure of the novel with short chapters switching from one character to another. Though I must admit the progression of the narrators relationship with the listener a bit odd. But heh Ho
I liked the way Andrew ashling introduces people and builds up their good or bad see. There where a few twists where I was thrown where the romantic in me was disappointed that the count de not get his boy but in the end he did get his man. But the others ending. You also wonder is Andrew building us up for a flanger in the later books when lorcko finds out about his fakers demise. If so that will be disappointing.
I agree with one reviewer along the line the main storyline of Anaaxantis and Ehandar I felt was wrong , and to be honest the only thing that kept me going was the image on the front cove of book 3.where y had both crests displayed. Yes what Ehandar did was horrific but equally what was done to home was just as bad. Rape weather it is of the body or the mind is wrong and you get a feeling that Ehandar I'll end up the bad guy even with the end of book 3. I do hope that the apparent need for authors these days to have twists and turns-everywhere off putting. We the subsidence needy so much into reading the books , care should be taken of our delicate minds and hearts.
I know that the book is a fantasy set in a different world when men where men and women where women but a
Anaaxantis and Ehandar where just glorified boys brought up in a ruthless environment. I felt that the author could have done more about boys struggling to be men. Ehandars wish to leave it all behind and break for the border would have been an interesting one but in essence we know the ending in as much as the dialogue between narrator and listener.
One could go on and on. I and a third of the way through gambit and enjoying but I do hope, Andrew, that the twists and turns are not too severe. Would love to see Ana and Ehandar making to the end and their love surviving it. I don't know if I like hermachidads and definitely if he ends up being mr Darcy it will be disappointing.
As I say a great read, some great characters,loads of laughs, tears (had to read the last chatter of book 3 a few times. I think in here Ana sees that he was as much a rapist as Ehandar was. Perhaps there is salvation for all.
The names, it makes writing a review impossible.
December 7, 2015
In the roughest of estimates I read this book twice. The first time I only read the parts that had Ehander in them because I was so curious to find out his fate and I knew the battle was going to block him out. So yeah in short a lot of the suspense was lost on me. So even though this book was my so far least liked in the series, I guess if I had read it in order it would have been a 5 star read. So this one is getting 5 stars as well.
Okay after I had ascertained Ehander’s fate, I read the book in its entirety from start to finish re-reading the parts I had already read. This book was a little slow and didn’t have the many twist and turns I have come to love about this series, all the plotting and treachery. But there is a very plausible reason for that and that was the war with the Mukhtars that, we have been building up for two books, was finally here. And when you are going on war everything else takes a back seat.
On the whole by the end of the book I knew I had to read the next part. Because in the end we finally meet Tenaxos II and Portonas IV, and then the end with Ehander and Anaxantis was so cool.
And now finally it is time for the High King of Ximerion to fall. We still don’t know what Anaxantis’ plans are but I really hope the whole atmosphere of political intrigue will be really picked up the next book.
Ambrick of Kelyd was one of the minor characters introduced in the second book, but I am almost certain he will be important at some time. Considering I went from really loving his shrewdness in the second book to earnestly hating him in the beginning of the third to pitying him by the end.
Actually in a way now that the Mukhtars are out of the way, in a lot of ways now the real game can begin. And I have a feeling the author was giving us a feel of the main characters in this new game we will be playing.
Also I wonder about the storyteller’s origins. Initially I wondered if he was one of the princes’ that is either Ehander or Anaxantis, but now I really don’t want him to be either, what with his randy ways. But I have a feeling he has been an active participant (like an important character) in the era of which he speaks about.
Okay after I had ascertained Ehander’s fate, I read the book in its entirety from start to finish re-reading the parts I had already read. This book was a little slow and didn’t have the many twist and turns I have come to love about this series, all the plotting and treachery. But there is a very plausible reason for that and that was the war with the Mukhtars that, we have been building up for two books, was finally here. And when you are going on war everything else takes a back seat.
On the whole by the end of the book I knew I had to read the next part. Because in the end we finally meet Tenaxos II and Portonas IV, and then the end with Ehander and Anaxantis was so cool.
And now finally it is time for the High King of Ximerion to fall. We still don’t know what Anaxantis’ plans are but I really hope the whole atmosphere of political intrigue will be really picked up the next book.
Ambrick of Kelyd was one of the minor characters introduced in the second book, but I am almost certain he will be important at some time. Considering I went from really loving his shrewdness in the second book to earnestly hating him in the beginning of the third to pitying him by the end.
Actually in a way now that the Mukhtars are out of the way, in a lot of ways now the real game can begin. And I have a feeling the author was giving us a feel of the main characters in this new game we will be playing.
Also I wonder about the storyteller’s origins. Initially I wondered if he was one of the princes’ that is either Ehander or Anaxantis, but now I really don’t want him to be either, what with his randy ways. But I have a feeling he has been an active participant (like an important character) in the era of which he speaks about.
March 20, 2013
This is the third, and probably the best, book of the trilogy. As I was reading, I kept wishing it would never end. (Fortunately, Mr.Ashling has written more books yey). There are many things that make this trilogy different from any other fantasy/m-m books I've read. The most important one is, the author has a plot. And he builds on it. The story is not an excuse to depict m-m relationships; instead, these add to a great story. He also handles an impressive array of characters, with their worries, unique personality traits, love and hate relationships. Anaxantis would deserve his own review; smart, brave yet full of shadows. The women in the trilogy are strong and resolute, although they are inevitably pushed to the background in the third book (and it's justified, I think). Mr. Ashling doesn't flinch when he describes brutality, gore, rape or insanity; he takes hold of these taboos and really uses them to improve the story. He also makes an excellent job of the description of the battle against the Mukthars, providing maps and all the necessary information you need to know what is going on.
All his characters speak, and yet the silence of things unsaid is as important as words.
These are only a few of the reasons why you, fantasy and m-m lover, should read these books. There are more, but those you'll have to find for yourself. Now I'll go and read the second trilogy, because Mr Ashling certainly left me craving for more.
All his characters speak, and yet the silence of things unsaid is as important as words.
These are only a few of the reasons why you, fantasy and m-m lover, should read these books. There are more, but those you'll have to find for yourself. Now I'll go and read the second trilogy, because Mr Ashling certainly left me craving for more.
April 9, 2015
Once again, I can only give this book, which is the third and final in the Invisible Chains series, only 3 stars, and actually it is only a 2.5 star book for me. I thought the plotting was pretty good. I wasn't all that interested in Anaxantis' war strategies, and some of it was hard to follow because the maps were pretty small and difficult to read as a result. I was really most interested in the relationship between Anaxantis and Ehandar and was fairly gratified that the author resolved the problems between the two of them in a satisfying way.
Once again, my biggest problem with this book was the same problem I had with the previous two books in the series - the editing. There were numerous times where incorrect words were used. I actually had to look up some of the words to see if maybe they might be some vague synonym or something, but most of the time the word was just plain wrong. For example: "a wan smell" - what kind of a smell is that? There was also quite a bit of incorrect grammar.
I still can't figure out why the author had Ryhunzo speak in purple prose. It sounded pretty silly and made that character sound pretty silly too. As a matter of fact, the author's decision to use such modern vernacular made the story seem frivolous at times and didn't make the story any better. In fact, I think it damaged the story as a whole.
I see that there is another series of books about Anaxantis, but if the editing isn't any better, I think I may skip this next series.
Once again, my biggest problem with this book was the same problem I had with the previous two books in the series - the editing. There were numerous times where incorrect words were used. I actually had to look up some of the words to see if maybe they might be some vague synonym or something, but most of the time the word was just plain wrong. For example: "a wan smell" - what kind of a smell is that? There was also quite a bit of incorrect grammar.
I still can't figure out why the author had Ryhunzo speak in purple prose. It sounded pretty silly and made that character sound pretty silly too. As a matter of fact, the author's decision to use such modern vernacular made the story seem frivolous at times and didn't make the story any better. In fact, I think it damaged the story as a whole.
I see that there is another series of books about Anaxantis, but if the editing isn't any better, I think I may skip this next series.
August 18, 2014
Another worthy installment to this series. Lots of battle action in this one but many, many funny and witty moments to balance it. I LOVE ANAXANTIS' PAGES!! Had to wait till the very end to get my Ehandar moment, but it made my heart smile. I can't wait to see where Book 4 takes Ehandar and Anaxantis because it's obvious that they have their work cut out for them. This book made me laugh; it made me cry; it made me smile. Love this series.
Goodness, I've just read the first three books in a little over 2 days and I'm about to start book 4. So happy I found this author!
Goodness, I've just read the first three books in a little over 2 days and I'm about to start book 4. So happy I found this author!
March 19, 2015
Oh, my god, this book is so good. I was crying at the end and I'm still so happy about how this trilogy concluded. As a side note, Anaxantis reminds me of Alexander the Great in many ways. Anaxanis is a leader who is young and cunning, but also flawed who knows how to make his troops love him. It will be interesting to see how his character progresses. I'll certainly be reading on because I have to know what comes next. The wrap up was awesome, and the intrigue for the books to come are set.
September 20, 2012
4.5 stars
July 24, 2013
Good ... I've read them all till now. Worth reading and better than most Gay fiction.
January 14, 2016
Reread 1/2016
May 13, 2016
Loved this book. Took off a star because Ashling killed my favourite wolf mukthar.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews