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Great installment

Megan Derr spins another intriguing tale of love can conquer all in the 2nd volume of her Unbreakable Soldiers series. She takes us through strife, love lost, love found, trials that show the strength and honor of her characters all in a fantastical world for a happy ending. This story lacked a little in the humor I find show occasionally throughout a Megan Derr read; however, was still captivating to the end.

Istari, Prince of Belemere, has been handed over as a peace treaty ambassador as part of peace offerings. In truth, he has been resigned to his position as a glamorous prisoner and suffered the loss of his long-time fiancée Flora as a result of this continuing term in Tallideth. It is in the midst of this sad annulment that he meets Teverem, or Tevi to his friends, whom recently inherited the title of Earl of Kormandane and his brother’s heir Ceverth and nieces Mirina and Jonni. Encounters with Tevi and his heir and nieces bring brief moments of joy to Istari’s otherwise dismal situation. They help to show Istari as more than a dark warrior, but a passionate misunderstood artist who placed his heart into everything he attempted – be it his paintings, his snipering in the military or his honoring of his family’s requests. After a near death incident with Koit, former friend and current Minister of Tallideth, things improve for Istari in Belemere overall which is certainly a relief.

Circumstances of Ceverth’s birth come up and his safety and the peace between various nations become in peril. As a result, Tevi and Istari agree to a betrothal between the two and to move back to Istari’s estate where his military team of expert, somewhat retired snipers can provide an extra layer of protection. Their journey is wrought with many dangers, kidnapping, rescue and assassinations. We experience the strength and depth of Tevi and Istari’s dedication for each other. We learn of Tevi’s sexual indifference where no strong emotion exists between him and his potential partners. We learn of Istari’s asexualism in the lack of an emotional or intrinsic connection. We muddle through emotional awkwardness with Istari and Tevi as they try to be honest with each other about their mutual feelings. We meet Morrin, Istari’s royal brother and current King of Belemere whom is sexually polygamous. We meet Istari blood father who is always willing to sell Istari out and his secret half-sister whom he must rescue from Dethmane plotters who hope this would assist them in capturing Ceverth. Tevi seems to play a softer role as Istari’s life as a royal and a expert marksmen play a integral role in resolving the situations that crop up in this story; however, Derr shows her artistry in making the reader believe that Tevi is Istari’s strength. His concern, his willingness to help, his taking a stance at the right time are perfectly timed supports that make Istari a fragile but strong protagonist. As usual, I love the happy ending after successful trials and tribulations!

A copy of the book was provided to me by Reading Alley in exchange for an honest and unbias review.