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lifeinthebooklane's review against another edition
4.0
This is another captivating, entertaining and well written instalment of the Men of the North series. I very much enjoyed Raven and Leo's story, though there is so much more to this story than just them. Be prepared for some real shocks along the way, and one heck of a build up to the final book, The Pacifist.
The push and pull between Raven and Leo was very nicely portrayed, it wasn't too angsty or over the top, but had just enough edge to hold my interest. The first person POV allows you to really know, understand and connect to both main characters, it also helped me to believe in their feelings and relationship. Whilst the book is written from both Leo and Raven's point of view, this felt very much more than just their story. At times it did feel as though the romance was almost a side story in this, there was so much else happening, however I still was very much invested in this couple and their HEA.
Elin Peer writes really amazing books, every single one holds my attention from start to finish. They all have characters who feel real and whom you want to be friends with. She is also pretty darn amazing at world building. She sets the bar so high, that whilst this perhaps isn't one of my favourites by her, it still stands head and shoulders above the vast majority of what I've read in the last few months. This is a book I would gladly read again and again, and also happily recommend to friends, family and anyone who'll listen!
The push and pull between Raven and Leo was very nicely portrayed, it wasn't too angsty or over the top, but had just enough edge to hold my interest. The first person POV allows you to really know, understand and connect to both main characters, it also helped me to believe in their feelings and relationship. Whilst the book is written from both Leo and Raven's point of view, this felt very much more than just their story. At times it did feel as though the romance was almost a side story in this, there was so much else happening, however I still was very much invested in this couple and their HEA.
Elin Peer writes really amazing books, every single one holds my attention from start to finish. They all have characters who feel real and whom you want to be friends with. She is also pretty darn amazing at world building. She sets the bar so high, that whilst this perhaps isn't one of my favourites by her, it still stands head and shoulders above the vast majority of what I've read in the last few months. This is a book I would gladly read again and again, and also happily recommend to friends, family and anyone who'll listen!
abby_victoria2001's review against another edition
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.0
storiedconversation's review against another edition
5.0
I received this book for free from in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.Raven is one of the children that were in the first combined school in earlier books. Seeing her now as an adult fighting for her dream is so awesome! Having lived in both the Motherlands and in the North she is unique. One of the few people who can say she grew up in both places. From the first time we meet her she wants to do all of the things that the boys do.
The problem is that in the North girls and women are protected, to the point of almost being wrapped in bubble wrap. Yet Raven was raised by a fierce fighter and had access to the first (and only) woman of the North who learned to fight. She knows what she wants and no one is going to stop her. Not even her boss who happens to want to fight for her best friend's hand in marriage.
Leo has been assigned the task of taking care of Raven so he gives her the easiest and most boring task ever. Go through the cold case files and organize them. He will discover what a mistake that was when she decides to investigate one of those cases. He is working towards fighting in the next tournament for Raven's friend. He is certain she will select him when he makes it to the final five. What he didn't count on was is just how far under his skin Raven could get.
These two are so perfect together as characters. This book had me biting my nails. Raven is funny, determined, and can kick butt like no one else. Leo is has a softer side that we get to see here. He doesn't laugh much and is serious but I think that is one of the reasons they work. There was a point in this book though that I was screaming NOOOO right along with the characters. It shattered me. It was unfathomable to me as to what happened but I am certain that it sets things up for the next book perfectly. It was just hard to read. I wanted to burst into tears and felt like I waiting the news on a family member. From beginning to end this book reminded me how much I want to go live in the North with all of those overbearing, sexy men. This review was originally posted on A Lucky Grace
The problem is that in the North girls and women are protected, to the point of almost being wrapped in bubble wrap. Yet Raven was raised by a fierce fighter and had access to the first (and only) woman of the North who learned to fight. She knows what she wants and no one is going to stop her. Not even her boss who happens to want to fight for her best friend's hand in marriage.
Leo has been assigned the task of taking care of Raven so he gives her the easiest and most boring task ever. Go through the cold case files and organize them. He will discover what a mistake that was when she decides to investigate one of those cases. He is working towards fighting in the next tournament for Raven's friend. He is certain she will select him when he makes it to the final five. What he didn't count on was is just how far under his skin Raven could get.
These two are so perfect together as characters. This book had me biting my nails. Raven is funny, determined, and can kick butt like no one else. Leo is has a softer side that we get to see here. He doesn't laugh much and is serious but I think that is one of the reasons they work. There was a point in this book though that I was screaming NOOOO right along with the characters. It shattered me. It was unfathomable to me as to what happened but I am certain that it sets things up for the next book perfectly. It was just hard to read. I wanted to burst into tears and felt like I waiting the news on a family member. From beginning to end this book reminded me how much I want to go live in the North with all of those overbearing, sexy men. This review was originally posted on A Lucky Grace
isitcake's review against another edition
fast-paced
3.0
Not what I expected of Raven's story. As the first female police officer in the Northlands I thought we'd spend a lot more time watching her struggle but there's really only that first chapter of one scene. After that she's a trainee? with Leo as her mentor (from Solo's book when he and Zasquash (both Doomsmen) and Leo (a police officer) had to protect the traveling Motlander performers). It felt like we barely got to see any real struggle, this was a very lighthearted read instead. Plus Raven makes a joke of everything (? I didn't remember her doing this as a kid) which isn't the best personality to read about. I thought her and Leo's relationship was unconvincing.
The best part about this book was that imo Raven's and Leo's relationship was secondary to Raven solving the murder of Khan and Magni's sister, Dina, and the shit that goes down with Magni and Khan and the reveal.
Raven discovers Dina's file in the police basement which has her death marked as suicide. She decides to investigate and enlists her best friend Mila and Mila's adopted mother Laura to help. She tracks down clues and discovers basically this sequence of events
1. Erika and Marcus Arelius had Dina. The then ruler Lord Wolf came to visit them where he preceded to rape Erika while his men held back Marcus who had to watch it happen. Then Marcus killed Wolf and became the ruler of the Northlands.
2. As Khan grew older, it was pretty obvious that he was Wolf's son. An ~11-year-old Dina overheads Marcus and Erika arguing and learns that Khan isn't really Marcus' son.
3. At 15, Dina has her bridal tournament and marries Henry, a construction work. It's never confirmed but highly suspected that Henry was bisexual at least as he had been living with his roommate, Michael, in a 1-bedroom tiny apartment. Henry had entered the tournament for the $1 million prize money mainly.
4. Marcus was broke and only paid out $100k of the prize money to Henry. This wasn't enough for them to afford to move out of their tiny apartment. Dina constantly calls Marcus in the week after her marriage and eventually threatens to reveal that she knows Khan isn't really his own unless he pays the rest of the prize money.
5. Erika goes to Dina to try to reason with her. This was still a time of upheaval and their power wasn't as stable as Khan's rule is today. As they're arguing Dina pulls out of Erika's arm and falls out of the attic window, crashing to the ground of their apartment building where she instantly dies.
6. Erika goes back to Marcus and confesses. Marcus goes to Henry to make sure he keeps his mouth shut and also has to kill him since he didn't protect Dina.
After this big reveal, Pearl convinces Khan that too many people know about this to stop it getting out and instead he should be proactive. Reveal it and hold an election. At the end of this book he's planning his electoral campaign for President.
The other shocker that happens is that while Raven is solving the case she and Laura went in person to question Michael (Henry's presumed lover). As they were flying back their drone broke down. Magni and Leo were flying to get them when their drone was struck by lightning and the ejection feature breaks down. Leo manages to eject but Magni crashes, losing both legs and part of his left arm, and his left eye is damaged. They manage to save him but he's a cripple and is on suicide watch for months. I was like :O :O :O not Magni!!!! His key trait is that he's the best warrior in the Northlands!
And lastly there's a lot of things not being said between Jonah and Mila as she prepares for her bridal tournament. I have to imagine that'll be even more of a struggle for her not to go through with it now after what happens to Magni. Since Jonah is a Motlander, no one respects him and he refuses to fight, so there's no way Magni will accept him as a husband capable of protecting Mila.
The best part about this book was that imo Raven's and Leo's relationship was secondary to Raven solving the murder of Khan and Magni's sister, Dina, and the shit that goes down with Magni and Khan and the reveal.
1. Erika and Marcus Arelius had Dina. The then ruler Lord Wolf came to visit them where he preceded to rape Erika while his men held back Marcus who had to watch it happen. Then Marcus killed Wolf and became the ruler of the Northlands.
2. As Khan grew older, it was pretty obvious that he was Wolf's son. An ~11-year-old Dina overheads Marcus and Erika arguing and learns that Khan isn't really Marcus' son.
3. At 15, Dina has her bridal tournament and marries Henry, a construction work. It's never confirmed but highly suspected that Henry was bisexual at least as he had been living with his roommate, Michael, in a 1-bedroom tiny apartment. Henry had entered the tournament for the $1 million prize money mainly.
4. Marcus was broke and only paid out $100k of the prize money to Henry. This wasn't enough for them to afford to move out of their tiny apartment. Dina constantly calls Marcus in the week after her marriage and eventually threatens to reveal that she knows Khan isn't really his own unless he pays the rest of the prize money.
5. Erika goes to Dina to try to reason with her. This was still a time of upheaval and their power wasn't as stable as Khan's rule is today. As they're arguing Dina pulls out of Erika's arm and falls out of the attic window, crashing to the ground of their apartment building where she instantly dies.
6. Erika goes back to Marcus and confesses. Marcus goes to Henry to make sure he keeps his mouth shut and also has to kill him since he didn't protect Dina.
After this big reveal, Pearl convinces Khan that too many people know about this to stop it getting out and instead he should be proactive. Reveal it and hold an election. At the end of this book he's planning his electoral campaign for President.
The other shocker that happens is that while Raven is solving the case she and Laura went in person to question Michael (Henry's presumed lover). As they were flying back their drone broke down. Magni and Leo were flying to get them when their drone was struck by lightning and the ejection feature breaks down. Leo manages to eject but Magni crashes, losing both legs and part of his left arm, and his left eye is damaged. They manage to save him but he's a cripple and is on suicide watch for months. I was like :O :O :O not Magni!!!! His key trait is that he's the best warrior in the Northlands!
And lastly there's a lot of things not being said between Jonah and Mila as she prepares for her bridal tournament. I have to imagine that'll be even more of a struggle for her not to go through with it now after what happens to Magni. Since Jonah is a Motlander, no one respects him and he refuses to fight, so there's no way Magni will accept him as a husband capable of protecting Mila.
ezichinny's review against another edition
4.0
I have always loved Raven. She always stood our and as she branded herself, a pioneer. I am glad that Christina and Boulder adopted her because I don't know any other Nmen who would have nurtured Raven's rebellious spirit. I don't even consider Raven rebellious, she is just someone who doesn't accept status quo. She bucks societal norms and she doesn't like to be told she weak or lacking.
Raven's acceptance into the law enforcement training academy was bound to make waves, but the change was more in Leo and ruling class of Nmen. Her tenacity and decision to solve a cold case led to Raven realizing love and also accepting that marriage won't make her less than her male counterpart.
As far as the story, the resolution of Dinah's death (Magni & Khan's older sister) revealed many secrets that impact the ruling family. I suspected Marcus Auerlius knew what happened but I am glad it wasn't him. Khan and Magni's seem poised to taking the country in a new direction, and I can't help but see Pearl and the other Motherland females written all over this decision. Slowly, and I mean slowly, there is a merging of ideals, and I look forward to the day the Nmen would be less misogynistic and Motherland citizens as less judgmental.
This series continues to be an intriguing look on society for me.
Raven's acceptance into the law enforcement training academy was bound to make waves, but the change was more in Leo and ruling class of Nmen. Her tenacity and decision to solve a cold case led to Raven realizing love and also accepting that marriage won't make her less than her male counterpart.
As far as the story, the resolution of Dinah's death (Magni & Khan's older sister) revealed many secrets that impact the ruling family. I suspected Marcus Auerlius knew what happened but I am glad it wasn't him. Khan and Magni's seem poised to taking the country in a new direction, and I can't help but see Pearl and the other Motherland females written all over this decision. Slowly, and I mean slowly, there is a merging of ideals, and I look forward to the day the Nmen would be less misogynistic and Motherland citizens as less judgmental.
This series continues to be an intriguing look on society for me.
amyiw's review against another edition
4.0
3 1/2 bump up maybe
A lot happens in this one and a lot of changes for the north. Her investigation skills have a lot to be desired but the investigation moves along and show some real eye openers. I still don't know why it would matter. So then even more thing happen, all while Raven and her superior are falling for each other. I was a little upset that she had to fight to the point that she did and there were no consequences for fair play. It was really good more for the changes and the relationship. Her position on the police force was a total farce.
A lot happens in this one and a lot of changes for the north. Her investigation skills have a lot to be desired
Spoiler
as soon as it is thought that Mangus and Connal are not brothers she should be thinking rape, not affair or other stupidity.Spoiler
Conal is still the first brother, accepted by his father and if nothing else, a son of the last ruler. Why would he not be still accepted? Also Mangus doesn't want the job. Still... It has been might is right for years.shealwaysreads's review
5.0
While I wasn't entirely pleased with the story line *Cough* Mangi ( because I'm a fan of his), it was thought out and well played. Offering the perfect amount of shock value to throw you off while reminding us that Peer is capable of throwing anything at us. So don't get too Comfortable. I wish I could say more but I fear if I keep going I will spill the beans on this remarkable read.
daisyblu3's review
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
meluhnie's review against another edition
dark
emotional
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child death
Moderate: Rape and Misogyny
Minor: Racism, Murder, Child abuse, and Domestic abuse
wickedlyromance's review against another edition
5.0
I received this book for free from in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.Raven is one of the children that were in the first combined school in earlier books. Seeing her now as an adult fighting for her dream is so awesome! Having lived in both the Motherlands and in the North she is unique. One of the few people who can say she grew up in both places. From the first time we meet her she wants to do all of the things that the boys do.
The problem is that in the North girls and women are protected, to the point of almost being wrapped in bubble wrap. Yet Raven was raised by a fierce fighter and had access to the first (and only) woman of the North who learned to fight. She knows what she wants and no one is going to stop her. Not even her boss who happens to want to fight for her best friend's hand in marriage.
Leo has been assigned the task of taking care of Raven so he gives her the easiest and most boring task ever. Go through the cold case files and organize them. He will discover what a mistake that was when she decides to investigate one of those cases. He is working towards fighting in the next tournament for Raven's friend. He is certain she will select him when he makes it to the final five. What he didn't count on was is just how far under his skin Raven could get.
These two are so perfect together as characters. This book had me biting my nails. Raven is funny, determined, and can kick butt like no one else. Leo is has a softer side that we get to see here. He doesn't laugh much and is serious but I think that is one of the reasons they work. There was a point in this book though that I was screaming NOOOO right along with the characters. It shattered me. It was unfathomable to me as to what happened but I am certain that it sets things up for the next book perfectly. It was just hard to read. I wanted to burst into tears and felt like I waiting the news on a family member. From beginning to end this book reminded me how much I want to go live in the North with all of those overbearing, sexy men. This review was originally posted on A Lucky Grace
The problem is that in the North girls and women are protected, to the point of almost being wrapped in bubble wrap. Yet Raven was raised by a fierce fighter and had access to the first (and only) woman of the North who learned to fight. She knows what she wants and no one is going to stop her. Not even her boss who happens to want to fight for her best friend's hand in marriage.
Leo has been assigned the task of taking care of Raven so he gives her the easiest and most boring task ever. Go through the cold case files and organize them. He will discover what a mistake that was when she decides to investigate one of those cases. He is working towards fighting in the next tournament for Raven's friend. He is certain she will select him when he makes it to the final five. What he didn't count on was is just how far under his skin Raven could get.
These two are so perfect together as characters. This book had me biting my nails. Raven is funny, determined, and can kick butt like no one else. Leo is has a softer side that we get to see here. He doesn't laugh much and is serious but I think that is one of the reasons they work. There was a point in this book though that I was screaming NOOOO right along with the characters. It shattered me. It was unfathomable to me as to what happened but I am certain that it sets things up for the next book perfectly. It was just hard to read. I wanted to burst into tears and felt like I waiting the news on a family member. From beginning to end this book reminded me how much I want to go live in the North with all of those overbearing, sexy men. This review was originally posted on A Lucky Grace