What do you think?
Rate this book
Betrothed
For years, Seri’s simple people have lived under the thumb of the Athonites, a regal, erudite caste. She wants no part of politics, though; she simply wants to live in peace. But when she’s given the opportunity to work at the enemy’s castle, she takes it, not realizing that she is sealing her own fate.
Prince Graeme is surprised to see the wild girl at court acting as a servant. He’s even more surprised when, during an important ceremony, she is decreed as his chosen bride – his Betrothed. As his Betrothed, she will give something long denied those of his lineage: relief from his age-old secret curse.
As kingdoms come to war and Seri’s people begin an uprising, she will have to pick sides. Will she choose her own folk…or the mysterious prince that is slowly stealing her heart?
Prince Graeme is surprised to see the wild girl at court acting as a servant. He’s even more surprised when, during an important ceremony, she is decreed as his chosen bride – his Betrothed. As his Betrothed, she will give something long denied those of his lineage: relief from his age-old secret curse.
As kingdoms come to war and Seri’s people begin an uprising, she will have to pick sides. Will she choose her own folk…or the mysterious prince that is slowly stealing her heart?
197 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 31, 2013
9 people are currently reading
554 people want to read
About the author
Jill Myles
42 books1,675 followersJILL MYLES writes as Jessica Clare and Jessica Sims.
A NOTE ABOUT FRIENDING: I will happily friend you back if you friend me! Goodreads is, after all, about discussing books we both love. I will NEVER self-promote my books to you. And if you self-promote your books to me, no matter how nicely, I'm deleting you off my list. Sorry. Goodreads is about fun, not spam.
A NOTE ABOUT MY REVIEWS: Hey, look at that! Most of my reviews are really positive! This is not me kissing ass - It's because at heart, I am a lazy reader. If I'm not enjoying a book, I don't finish it. I don't review anything I didn't finish, ergo, most of the reviews I put up here are pretty much positive across the board because I finished them and was happy with the story. Makes sense, right?
A NOTE ABOUT FRIENDING: I will happily friend you back if you friend me! Goodreads is, after all, about discussing books we both love. I will NEVER self-promote my books to you. And if you self-promote your books to me, no matter how nicely, I'm deleting you off my list. Sorry. Goodreads is about fun, not spam.
A NOTE ABOUT MY REVIEWS: Hey, look at that! Most of my reviews are really positive! This is not me kissing ass - It's because at heart, I am a lazy reader. If I'm not enjoying a book, I don't finish it. I don't review anything I didn't finish, ergo, most of the reviews I put up here are pretty much positive across the board because I finished them and was happy with the story. Makes sense, right?
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
June 6, 2018
I really liked this book. it's good romance. it was short but it was sweet...
I recommend this book.
I recommend this book.
July 23, 2018
2.5 stars
Thank you to Shanelle for the recommendation!
Started off really good with a rock and hard place heroine and dark, cold, mysterious, but standing up for her hero. Has a historical feel with setting and clothing but dialogue is modern. The world building was shaky at times and there were little contradictory things (hero has short cropped hair and then hair reaches his collar and bangs in the face) throughout. Heroine grew to be TSTL with her decision making and forced lack of seeing a character for who he really was, eye-rolling. This is first person from the heroine and I again missed any insight from the hero.
Something interesting here but felt a raw and unrefined.
Thank you to Shanelle for the recommendation!
Started off really good with a rock and hard place heroine and dark, cold, mysterious, but standing up for her hero. Has a historical feel with setting and clothing but dialogue is modern. The world building was shaky at times and there were little contradictory things (hero has short cropped hair and then hair reaches his collar and bangs in the face) throughout. Heroine grew to be TSTL with her decision making and forced lack of seeing a character for who he really was, eye-rolling. This is first person from the heroine and I again missed any insight from the hero.
Something interesting here but felt a raw and unrefined.
October 24, 2013
Awesome. Just awesome.
I just couldn't put this book down. My only critism is that the book was too short, and it's not a series. I would have loved to read several novels based on the world that Jill Myles has created.
In this world, the native people have been conquered by a more advanced nation. The native group live in poverty and the ruling classes impose heavy taxes on the people to prevent rebellion. The story begins with Seri, a local native girl, coming in contact a man from the ruling class. She eventually is given a position as a servant for a local festival by one of the ruling classes' ladies.
Everyone is horrible to her. The ruling class looks down upon her because she can't read or do frivolous things like recite poetry. The soldiers constantly harass her because they think she's a whore.
Everything changes when she's chosen by the gods to be betrothed to one of the ruling class guys. There is an instant attraction, but the couple has culture, society and vampires to content with. Yep, vampires.
This is a great book. It blends everything I like: romance, culture, vampires, sex... all that good stuff. I love how developed both people are, and it's not cut and dry as to who are the good guys all the time.
Read this book and you'll be hooked on all of Jill Myles' work.
I just couldn't put this book down. My only critism is that the book was too short, and it's not a series. I would have loved to read several novels based on the world that Jill Myles has created.
In this world, the native people have been conquered by a more advanced nation. The native group live in poverty and the ruling classes impose heavy taxes on the people to prevent rebellion. The story begins with Seri, a local native girl, coming in contact a man from the ruling class. She eventually is given a position as a servant for a local festival by one of the ruling classes' ladies.
Everyone is horrible to her. The ruling class looks down upon her because she can't read or do frivolous things like recite poetry. The soldiers constantly harass her because they think she's a whore.
Everything changes when she's chosen by the gods to be betrothed to one of the ruling class guys. There is an instant attraction, but the couple has culture, society and vampires to content with. Yep, vampires.
This is a great book. It blends everything I like: romance, culture, vampires, sex... all that good stuff. I love how developed both people are, and it's not cut and dry as to who are the good guys all the time.
Read this book and you'll be hooked on all of Jill Myles' work.
November 26, 2016
When the overlords of the land come back to rule, Seri never thought to ever go to the castle much less become the destined betrothed of the prince. Despite being enemies they have to strive for common ground or risk destroying both of their groups.
I wanted to like this book more than I did. There were so many deep issues in the book that were overlooked or solved rather quickly. There was no build up for the characters and they fell flat.
I wanted to like this book more than I did. There were so many deep issues in the book that were overlooked or solved rather quickly. There was no build up for the characters and they fell flat.
September 25, 2013
loved it until 3/4 thru when I can no longer ignore that the heroine, Seri is an indesicive, passive, spineless fool without morals. I can take it from YA teenage heroine novels but it's too absurb when the spineless fool is supposed to be a ruler. Concept of right and wrong may be alternable but a passive, fool of a ruler for a lead character is just hate-inspiring.
April 27, 2017
I'm not wasting time writing a review for this terrible book because NO ONE TOLD ME this was a vampire romance novel. NO ONE.
So readers beware: THIS IS A VAMPIRE ROMANCE NOVEL. AND A HORRIBLE ONE.
Goodbye.
So readers beware: THIS IS A VAMPIRE ROMANCE NOVEL. AND A HORRIBLE ONE.
Goodbye.
October 3, 2013
POV: Seri & The blood Prince Graeme. *My POV preference was Graeme. IMO the story would have benefited from more chapters from his POV.
The Athonites have long ago concord Seri's people. They're a harsh nation & have earned the hate of Seri's people.
Seri is a hardworking goose girl with a blind sister & a bed ridden father. She's the sole provider for her family. Seri will be hand-fasted to Rilen in a very short time. She hopes this hand-fasting will bring more stability to her family being Rilen is better off financially. Rilen is familiar to Seri & this hand fasting is her choice.
Rilen is a farm boy who has dealings Seri is unaware of. His actions throughout the book speak for themselves. Therefore I will not get into any sort of detail on them.
The blood Prince Graeme is a pompous & cold individual. He's decided to retire from the Athonites court & decides he'll move into an old castle near the wild land. His father agrees to this being his constant presence may detour some resistance from the barbarians (Seri's people). Keep a closer watch & a tighter leash if you will.
My feelings on the book: I was upset with Seri. Thought her easily influenced, a people pleaser, & oblivious, as she continued to be manipulated. I believe the author did this on purpose in an attempt to show growth. However this is only 100 odd page ebook & I was afraid this book would be a DNF. I had to continuously take a moment away from the book & calm myself. My mantra "Do not damage the kindle. You cannot throw it across a wall." During that frustrating portion of the story I was extremely happy I only purchased the ebook for $.99 @ this point. Oddly enough this short ebook turned out to be one of my favorites & I would have loved for it to be a series. I believe it's stand alone though.
I'm in love with the prince of blood. I'd be happy to have someone like him in my bed & heart. I'm likely to glow for him without any assistance from the one god.
The Athonites have long ago concord Seri's people. They're a harsh nation & have earned the hate of Seri's people.
Seri is a hardworking goose girl with a blind sister & a bed ridden father. She's the sole provider for her family. Seri will be hand-fasted to Rilen in a very short time. She hopes this hand-fasting will bring more stability to her family being Rilen is better off financially. Rilen is familiar to Seri & this hand fasting is her choice.
Rilen is a farm boy who has dealings Seri is unaware of. His actions throughout the book speak for themselves. Therefore I will not get into any sort of detail on them.
The blood Prince Graeme is a pompous & cold individual. He's decided to retire from the Athonites court & decides he'll move into an old castle near the wild land. His father agrees to this being his constant presence may detour some resistance from the barbarians (Seri's people). Keep a closer watch & a tighter leash if you will.
My feelings on the book: I was upset with Seri. Thought her easily influenced, a people pleaser, & oblivious, as she continued to be manipulated. I believe the author did this on purpose in an attempt to show growth. However this is only 100 odd page ebook & I was afraid this book would be a DNF. I had to continuously take a moment away from the book & calm myself. My mantra "Do not damage the kindle. You cannot throw it across a wall." During that frustrating portion of the story I was extremely happy I only purchased the ebook for $.99 @ this point. Oddly enough this short ebook turned out to be one of my favorites & I would have loved for it to be a series. I believe it's stand alone though.
I'm in love with the prince of blood. I'd be happy to have someone like him in my bed & heart. I'm likely to glow for him without any assistance from the one god.
June 5, 2013
Jill's writing style seems effortless and flows smoothly. It draws you in until you realize you've been reading for 4 hours straight and it is now 4:49 am. You're not even sure if you've eaten dinner yet. Goddamn the ending was satisfying and I can't help but love a clear resolution.
August 2, 2013
3.5 stars
I liked the idea and the setting, and I liked the hero. Seri was great at times, but there were some moments when I wanted to slap her. Hard. Especially towards the end. Freeing her murderous countrymen after they beat and killed that poor girl? Not only a mistake, a HUGE mistake! And taking so much crap from her former fiance... Let him slap her and keeping silent about the stupid rebelion just because she felt guilty? The bastard had let her family starve! I would have handed him to the guards right away. She realised she loved Graeme and still did nothing. Such stupidity!
But I blame the author, not poor Seri. I could see she was changed to suit the action, not the other way around. I find it hard to believe the proud and defiant girl from the begining would behave so... idiotic.
And there was to much drama at the finale. Unnecessary drama.
It could have been much better, a pitty.
I liked the idea and the setting, and I liked the hero. Seri was great at times, but there were some moments when I wanted to slap her. Hard. Especially towards the end. Freeing her murderous countrymen after they beat and killed that poor girl? Not only a mistake, a HUGE mistake! And taking so much crap from her former fiance... Let him slap her and keeping silent about the stupid rebelion just because she felt guilty? The bastard had let her family starve! I would have handed him to the guards right away. She realised she loved Graeme and still did nothing. Such stupidity!
But I blame the author, not poor Seri. I could see she was changed to suit the action, not the other way around. I find it hard to believe the proud and defiant girl from the begining would behave so... idiotic.
And there was to much drama at the finale. Unnecessary drama.
It could have been much better, a pitty.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 14, 2013
Review originally posted here: http://thebookpushers.com/2013/06/14/...
MinnChica: When I got Myles’ newsletter about her latest release, I immediately went and purchased it. I love a really well done fantasy romance, and the blurb sounded so much like WARPRIZE by Elizabeth Vaughan, that I knew it was bound to be incredible. I am so glad that I picked this book up, it was everything I hoped it would be and then some. I was so sad when the story was over, because I wanted to continue in the world that Myles created and find out more and more about Graeme and Seri!
Has: I luuuuved WARPRIZE which is one of all time favourite romance and because BETROTHED had a similar premise, I definitely jumped at the chance. I really enjoyed the setting and the differing cultures of the Athonites and the Vidari and Myles really paid attendtion to detail which really added a vividand rich layer to the story.
However, while I liked most of the characters – I did find Seri, the heroine frustrating for me. I felt she made some silly mistakes which she seems to not have learned from and I disliked how she kept repeating them. Although I understand why she was so mistrustful and suspicious of the Athonites because of the oppressive history they have over the Vidari people. But I also felt she trusted her own allies who betrayed her even more than what the Athonites represented.
MinnChica: I really liked Seri. She came across to me as really sweet and young and innocent and sheltered and very, VERY naive. She only knew the way of life for her people, so being thrown into the Athonite court was a huge culture shock, and one that I don’t think she ever really got the hang of, even at the end. She trusted the wrong people, and let her instincts fall to the wayside in favor of what she thought she knew. But all in all I kind of adored her. I wanted to take her under my wing and protect her from all the pain that she had to endure.
I really loved Prince Graeme. I wish that Myles would have given us more scenes from his point of view, because I think he had some really strong and conflicting emotions towards Seri. I wanted to get more into his head and see just how strong his lust was for her, and just how much he wanted her love and acceptance. If there was one aspect of this book I could change, it would be that.
Has: I loved the culture shock which Seri experiences – it really emphasizes the level of detail and thought went into setting up the difference between the Vidari and the Athonites. I also felt that is when Seri really came alive for me when she rebelled against the constrictions of the Athonites especially on how a lady has to behave.
I also definitely agree with you about Prince Graeme about the lack of his POV. I think his character was great. I loved his cool exterior but underneath he was sensitive and there was more dimensions to his character. I only felt that he was more fleshed out when we came to his POV chapter, when we learned there was more sides to his character.
MinnChica: I hope and pray that Myles writes more books within this world, as I think that the world building was so fleshed out. She told me via Twitter that she would love to write more within this world, but only if there is an audience for it. I thought that the secondary characters were so great, both in a positive light and a negative light. I loved Seri and Graeme’s sisters, and they showed some potential to have amazing stories. I do hope that we can see more from them, and from Seri as she learns to navigate the Athonite way.
Has: I agree – I think the world she created is fantastic and I really hope there is more to come. I loved how she made the noble born Athonites who have been cursed into a vampire like race and how this connected with the magical mythology on the betrothal between Seri and Graeme. It was very promising and vibrant and I would love to see more of this in the future. But overall the romance for me was the real highlight, although they had issues and a lot of suspicions, when they started to bond and embrace their feelings, the love story really shined for me (pun intended when you read the book!) I love the enemies turned to lovers trope especially with the fate of the welfare of their people in the balance – it really adds an epic tone to the story.
MinnChica: All in all I really loved this story. I thought Seri had so much to deal with and adjust to, and I loved the differences in their cultures and how much that affected her relationship with her family and Graeme alike. While I wanted more POV time with Graeme, I am a big fan of the way Myles mixed the paranormal elements into the story. I sincerely hope that this book gets a large enough audience that Myles will consider writing more books set within the world.
I give Betrothed an A.
Has: I enjoyed BETROTHED, even though I had issues with Seri’s character, the romance, the rich backdrop and the vivid focus on the cultures of the Vidari and the Athonites made this a fun and enjoyable read. And Jill Myles created a wonderful and rich setting with engaging characters. I also hope there is more to come especially with the hints of the growing tension between the two cultures which hasn’t been resolved will be interesting to see develop.
I give Bethrothed a B
MinnChica: When I got Myles’ newsletter about her latest release, I immediately went and purchased it. I love a really well done fantasy romance, and the blurb sounded so much like WARPRIZE by Elizabeth Vaughan, that I knew it was bound to be incredible. I am so glad that I picked this book up, it was everything I hoped it would be and then some. I was so sad when the story was over, because I wanted to continue in the world that Myles created and find out more and more about Graeme and Seri!
Has: I luuuuved WARPRIZE which is one of all time favourite romance and because BETROTHED had a similar premise, I definitely jumped at the chance. I really enjoyed the setting and the differing cultures of the Athonites and the Vidari and Myles really paid attendtion to detail which really added a vividand rich layer to the story.
However, while I liked most of the characters – I did find Seri, the heroine frustrating for me. I felt she made some silly mistakes which she seems to not have learned from and I disliked how she kept repeating them. Although I understand why she was so mistrustful and suspicious of the Athonites because of the oppressive history they have over the Vidari people. But I also felt she trusted her own allies who betrayed her even more than what the Athonites represented.
MinnChica: I really liked Seri. She came across to me as really sweet and young and innocent and sheltered and very, VERY naive. She only knew the way of life for her people, so being thrown into the Athonite court was a huge culture shock, and one that I don’t think she ever really got the hang of, even at the end. She trusted the wrong people, and let her instincts fall to the wayside in favor of what she thought she knew. But all in all I kind of adored her. I wanted to take her under my wing and protect her from all the pain that she had to endure.
I really loved Prince Graeme. I wish that Myles would have given us more scenes from his point of view, because I think he had some really strong and conflicting emotions towards Seri. I wanted to get more into his head and see just how strong his lust was for her, and just how much he wanted her love and acceptance. If there was one aspect of this book I could change, it would be that.
Has: I loved the culture shock which Seri experiences – it really emphasizes the level of detail and thought went into setting up the difference between the Vidari and the Athonites. I also felt that is when Seri really came alive for me when she rebelled against the constrictions of the Athonites especially on how a lady has to behave.
I also definitely agree with you about Prince Graeme about the lack of his POV. I think his character was great. I loved his cool exterior but underneath he was sensitive and there was more dimensions to his character. I only felt that he was more fleshed out when we came to his POV chapter, when we learned there was more sides to his character.
MinnChica: I hope and pray that Myles writes more books within this world, as I think that the world building was so fleshed out. She told me via Twitter that she would love to write more within this world, but only if there is an audience for it. I thought that the secondary characters were so great, both in a positive light and a negative light. I loved Seri and Graeme’s sisters, and they showed some potential to have amazing stories. I do hope that we can see more from them, and from Seri as she learns to navigate the Athonite way.
Has: I agree – I think the world she created is fantastic and I really hope there is more to come. I loved how she made the noble born Athonites who have been cursed into a vampire like race and how this connected with the magical mythology on the betrothal between Seri and Graeme. It was very promising and vibrant and I would love to see more of this in the future. But overall the romance for me was the real highlight, although they had issues and a lot of suspicions, when they started to bond and embrace their feelings, the love story really shined for me (pun intended when you read the book!) I love the enemies turned to lovers trope especially with the fate of the welfare of their people in the balance – it really adds an epic tone to the story.
MinnChica: All in all I really loved this story. I thought Seri had so much to deal with and adjust to, and I loved the differences in their cultures and how much that affected her relationship with her family and Graeme alike. While I wanted more POV time with Graeme, I am a big fan of the way Myles mixed the paranormal elements into the story. I sincerely hope that this book gets a large enough audience that Myles will consider writing more books set within the world.
I give Betrothed an A.
Has: I enjoyed BETROTHED, even though I had issues with Seri’s character, the romance, the rich backdrop and the vivid focus on the cultures of the Vidari and the Athonites made this a fun and enjoyable read. And Jill Myles created a wonderful and rich setting with engaging characters. I also hope there is more to come especially with the hints of the growing tension between the two cultures which hasn’t been resolved will be interesting to see develop.
I give Bethrothed a B
Want to read
August 21, 2020WHERE'S THIS BOOK????????
This book was recommended by my friend and the author is Kindle Unlimited elite a.k.a. coolest authors ever but I can't find it anywhere!!!!!!!
UPDATE 08/21
GUUUYYSSS, THIS COVER IS OUTDATED!!
Marissa just told me that this is an oudated cover, please guys get your book copies on KU, so that you get the best version of a book with the best cover.
Updated cover and content look like this
This is what Marissa-san told me, girl you're such a sweetheart!
I just wanted to make sure you saw my comment about the book Betrothed being retitled to Queen of Blood. Jill Myles self published Betrothed in 2013, but then signed with a publisher and they retitled Betrothed to Queen of Blood in 2015. It is available on KU. Hope that helps!
So there it is!
This book was recommended by my friend and the author is Kindle Unlimited elite a.k.a. coolest authors ever but I can't find it anywhere!!!!!!!
UPDATE 08/21
GUUUYYSSS, THIS COVER IS OUTDATED!!
Marissa just told me that this is an oudated cover, please guys get your book copies on KU, so that you get the best version of a book with the best cover.
Updated cover and content look like this
This is what Marissa-san told me, girl you're such a sweetheart!
I just wanted to make sure you saw my comment about the book Betrothed being retitled to Queen of Blood. Jill Myles self published Betrothed in 2013, but then signed with a publisher and they retitled Betrothed to Queen of Blood in 2015. It is available on KU. Hope that helps!
So there it is!
June 28, 2013
I really liked this book. It was a quick read, kept me riveted, and though Eris made wrong choice after wrong choice, the reasons for making her decisions were understandable. My only criticism is that the end was a little rushed, I think the book could have been longer. I believe this is a standalone book (which I haven't read in a long time), but I wouldn't mind reading another book or two about Josdi and Viktor, or Meluoe and a Vidari man. I definitely recommend this book!
June 4, 2013
Darn you Nicole! This was pushed on me by a friend and it was quite good. I was worried a bit about the heroine and how much crap she took from her countryman but she redeemed herself over time. I enjoyed seeing the clash of cultures and how things ended up starting to improve.
I am interested to see what other PNR Myles has up her sleeve.
I am interested to see what other PNR Myles has up her sleeve.
February 12, 2015
An interesting take on the whole vampire thing.
July 27, 2014
UGGGGHHHH
I don't think this book was as good as it could have been. Or maybe I just didn't like how the author wrote the story. The writing was fine, but the story… Okay maybe some fault can be put on it being only 12 chapters. But I think that if you write a short book, than things should be more balanced. Majority of the book, the relationship between Graeme and Seri was miserable. Not the romance I am used to at all. I was waiting for the sun to break through the dark clouds of their relationship, which never happened until the last chapter. See what I mean by unbalanced? There was hardly anytime to bask in the Love they eventually share. You might be okay with that, but I hated that majority of my reading this book was emotionless stares, and cold tones from the male lead. And it bothered me that Seri never thought to retrieve her family on her own. I'm sure she could have taken some guards with her or something. I don't see this book as a romance. The wedding was over in a flash. There were no talks of love. The only thing they could agree on was their lust for each other. And was Graeme serious about not turning woman away from his bed even after they are married? They never cleared that up and I hate cheaters!
See Me by Wendy Higgins is how a betrothal should be written.
I don't think this book was as good as it could have been. Or maybe I just didn't like how the author wrote the story. The writing was fine, but the story… Okay maybe some fault can be put on it being only 12 chapters. But I think that if you write a short book, than things should be more balanced. Majority of the book, the relationship between Graeme and Seri was miserable. Not the romance I am used to at all. I was waiting for the sun to break through the dark clouds of their relationship, which never happened until the last chapter. See what I mean by unbalanced? There was hardly anytime to bask in the Love they eventually share. You might be okay with that, but I hated that majority of my reading this book was emotionless stares, and cold tones from the male lead. And it bothered me that Seri never thought to retrieve her family on her own. I'm sure she could have taken some guards with her or something. I don't see this book as a romance. The wedding was over in a flash. There were no talks of love. The only thing they could agree on was their lust for each other. And was Graeme serious about not turning woman away from his bed even after they are married? They never cleared that up and I hate cheaters!
See Me by Wendy Higgins is how a betrothal should be written.
August 30, 2014
I liked how this book started out... but by the end of it I was sick of Seri and Graeme. Let's start with Seri shall we?
Seri is part of the Vidari tribe that had been conquered by Price Graeme's people, the Athoni, about a century ago. They are considered savages. Due to certain circumstances, they get married.
It started out interesting, where we, the readers, were told how the Vidari and treated and forced to live in poverty. I heart wept for them and I found myself rooting for them to win the war against the Athoni. However, Seri is as changeable as the weather in her decisions to stay firm in helping the Vidari. I found myself disliking her character and indecisive mind.
Graeme on the other hand is a control freak. I hate it when the main love interest behaves like the protagonist is a thing to be possessed.
Even though I did not enjoy this book as much as I thought I would, I would still recommend giving the Scarecrow King, by the same author, a try.
Seri is part of the Vidari tribe that had been conquered by Price Graeme's people, the Athoni, about a century ago. They are considered savages. Due to certain circumstances, they get married.
It started out interesting, where we, the readers, were told how the Vidari and treated and forced to live in poverty. I heart wept for them and I found myself rooting for them to win the war against the Athoni. However, Seri is as changeable as the weather in her decisions to stay firm in helping the Vidari. I found myself disliking her character and indecisive mind.
Graeme on the other hand is a control freak. I hate it when the main love interest behaves like the protagonist is a thing to be possessed.
Even though I did not enjoy this book as much as I thought I would, I would still recommend giving the Scarecrow King, by the same author, a try.
November 12, 2013
I enjoyed this book and read it in one go, I thought the beginning was really good but then it seemed to lose its way a little in the middle this was due in a large part to Seri turning into a sulky, spoilt brat, it's beyond me why authors do this they give us a good female character and then have them act like little children it happens time and again, anyway I loved the whole idea of this book I would have liked to view certain things from Graeme's POV but it's still an enjoyable read.
August 21, 2014
Girl was too dumb. All proud and glorious, and forgets to see if her pa and sister have eaten?? Um... And the first love scene set my inner feminist a rage. I searched for a beauty and the beast retelling and this came up, so I gave it a try. Nope. The scarecrow king is decent with no smut. I bought them at the same time. But this one had a wickedly dumb heroine so it was hard to get into and the bedroom scenes were too much or me. They weren't good.
April 15, 2016
Seri and Blood Prince Graeme were both likable characters and I especially like reading Prince Graeme's POV too bad it was kind of short. I don't really feel anything about Seri but I like the prince.
January 27, 2020
This is the same book than Queen of Blood.
May 12, 2025
"Perhaps I should just marry your vizier, then. He seems to do all the work around here."
I'd been striking out on a couple of choices and wondering if I was in a reading slump. Taking a break, I decided to spend some time cleaning up my shelves and my kindle content (note to self: do this more often because YEARS of content took FOREVER).
Betrothed was one of the older books I'd decided to peruse because I'd really enjoyed Myles' novel, The Scarecrow King. I'm not sure why, but I was really surprised at how much I enjoyed this one.
"I am afraid that the Vidari are more concerned with trying to eat than whether or not they can recite poetry."
Seri has known only hardship and poverty. In order to take care of her blind sister and ailing father, Seri jumps at the chance to make a small fortune in exchange for a couple days of humiliation: attend the upcoming Athoni ceremony as a servant for one of the noblewomen.
Nothing smarts so much as when the gods choose Seri during the ceremony as Prince Graeme's bride: his Betrothed. The Vidari are a proud people and Seri wastes no time in making her displeasure over this change in situation known. But the prince isn't as cold and distant as he appears. As Graeme and Seri attempt to make the best of their unwanted circumstances, Seri's people start to rise up...forcing her to choose sides between those of her people and her prince.
"My son has surely been cursed by the gods to have them choose you to put in his life." "On that, madam, we can certainly agree."
Seri, like most strong female leads, is one of my favorites. Especially because she refused to be cowed even in the face of such disdain and uncertainty. She made her own decisions and I swear was a queen in her own right through her own actions. Despite her angst over her dual loyalties, I found it really fitting that her father was the one that made her see how she could succeed at being a part of both her worlds.
Graeme wasn't my favorite at the beginning. He was cold and haughty, as a prince would be. Used to hiding his emotions because of court life, he wasn't very personable. (Seri often remarked it was like he was a cold statue and she was right.) However, as it became apparent the more they clashed that he really was considering Seri's differences, he grew on me.
...It also helped that part of his families curse added a few vampiric tendencies (they have to live on the blood of others being the primary one...especially because his own personal honor code forbids him from being a brute about it). I don't know about you but there is no bigger button than that of the neck biting variety for me! Yum.
While I wouldn't necessarily label the novel as enemies-to-lovers, it definitely had the tension of one. And while I felt the "come-to-Jesus moment" was a bit abrupt, the ending was perfection.
"You taste of sunshine and light, Seri. Of forbidden things I can never have."
Recommended for fantasy romance lovers that want a bit of neck-biting fun.
February 17, 2017
it's good romance..for the simple story...
Seri lives in Vidari, a land which not prosperous with sick's father and blind sister. in Vidari, there's a castle who live noble's family, which is abhored by Vidari's peole
for Seri, she just want money for her family to live. so, when one of noble's girl offered a chance to be her maid with high price (money), Seri accepted.
when she entered the castle, she is just like stranger, a wild girl in noble's family. although she didn't like the noble's manner, who look at her like see a savage person, Seri accepted it for her
in that night, there is ceremony, for Prince Greamae choose for the bride. FYI, Prince Greame is vampire, who have lived for hundred years. her bride must be selected by Moon's goddess for every ten years.
so...Greame didn't expect Seri is his chosen bride. It's true the he see Seri like a wild girl, although as ruler of Land he want to make a peace with Astonish people. maybe in this chance, he can achieve his goal...but first Greame must win Seri's heart.
comment :
#for Seri, she has stubborn heart and didn't ashamed for her people. it makes dilemma for her....she find Greame is not bad as she expected.
#for Greame, just like another hero..but for the first time he see Seri, he underestimated her so...when he said the word that made Seri angry, he got "slap" from Seri. ouch...but thanks for that, he know Seri better than before.
# for the conflict...it's simple and interesting to see how Seri and Greame solve the problem and for the romance, I like how they build the trust between them.
4 star
Seri lives in Vidari, a land which not prosperous with sick's father and blind sister. in Vidari, there's a castle who live noble's family, which is abhored by Vidari's peole
for Seri, she just want money for her family to live. so, when one of noble's girl offered a chance to be her maid with high price (money), Seri accepted.
when she entered the castle, she is just like stranger, a wild girl in noble's family. although she didn't like the noble's manner, who look at her like see a savage person, Seri accepted it for her
in that night, there is ceremony, for Prince Greamae choose for the bride. FYI, Prince Greame is vampire, who have lived for hundred years. her bride must be selected by Moon's goddess for every ten years.
so...Greame didn't expect Seri is his chosen bride. It's true the he see Seri like a wild girl, although as ruler of Land he want to make a peace with Astonish people. maybe in this chance, he can achieve his goal...but first Greame must win Seri's heart.
comment :
#for Seri, she has stubborn heart and didn't ashamed for her people. it makes dilemma for her....she find Greame is not bad as she expected.
#for Greame, just like another hero..but for the first time he see Seri, he underestimated her so...when he said the word that made Seri angry, he got "slap" from Seri. ouch...but thanks for that, he know Seri better than before.
# for the conflict...it's simple and interesting to see how Seri and Greame solve the problem and for the romance, I like how they build the trust between them.
4 star
May 22, 2014
I read this book in one night -- I obviously really liked it. Seri is a complicated character. She pretty much single-handedly takes care of her family and takes pride in her own character and being a Vidari. At the same time, her character was at times frustrating (how many times with she trust Rillen after he lies to her?!?) and she is very wishy-washy about whose side she is on. Nevertheless, you can't help but root for her, especially when Lady Mila and the other ladies of the court attempt to humiliate her again and again.
I love stories where the h/H are thrown together because of forces outside their control and must work out their differences, and this was no exception. I also like jerks and Graeme definitely qualifies at the beginning of the novel.
This book had unique take on the traditional mortal/vampire love story, my only main complaint was that I was left with a lot of questions at the end of the book. I really wish there had been a lot more back story -- particularly explaining Graeme's family and their relationships and history and ). These things were sort of sketched out in the book but not filled in.
I love stories where the h/H are thrown together because of forces outside their control and must work out their differences, and this was no exception. I also like jerks and Graeme definitely qualifies at the beginning of the novel.
This book had unique take on the traditional mortal/vampire love story, my only main complaint was that I was left with a lot of questions at the end of the book. I really wish there had been a lot more back story -- particularly explaining Graeme's family and their relationships and history and ). These things were sort of sketched out in the book but not filled in.
April 3, 2017
I really like the story, love it actually. But it would be nicer if the author expanded on Graeme's thoughts, his POV more because it would provide more depth to his character. It seems too good to be true to have a Prince who sort of insta-give-everything to his "savage" wife just because they both possessed the bond. More insight on the bond and more together time will also help to make the story a little believable(?), because to have characters truly loving one another (in the book) requires both to have some sacrifices nicely-spaced in between or possibly drama/adventure together to lead to the realisation that they need one another badly, not just depending on the unexplained bond. Graeme did sacrifice for Seri, but there wasn't something more solid to support the fact that he loved her, like how did he come to love her?
As for Seri, her character seemed more realistic in her line of thoughts. However, the story somehow lacks together moments to slowly build their feelings for one another. Maybe give more Graeme's gentle side throughout the story rather than at the ending? These are just my two cents (:
Overall, the author did a good job though. It's a memorable read and I truly enjoyed the book. (:
As for Seri, her character seemed more realistic in her line of thoughts. However, the story somehow lacks together moments to slowly build their feelings for one another. Maybe give more Graeme's gentle side throughout the story rather than at the ending? These are just my two cents (:
Overall, the author did a good job though. It's a memorable read and I truly enjoyed the book. (:
May 7, 2020
I read it from beginning to end, which-- in my little book dry-spell I'm having-- is a bonus. But the thing is... Siri was a moron. At first I thought it endearing and it made sense, the little goose girl was not brilliant and didn't know how to cope with everything that was heaped upon her. But after she failed time and again to prove that she could learn from her mistakes, I began to dislike her... a lot.
I liked Graeme only a little better, because for all his... (whatever it was we were supposed to be impressed with) he was an idiot who refused to communicate at all, with anyone ever until writing down his thoughts and making a big, grand, empty, foolish gesture.
The end result was that I didn't care enough about either of them to be engaged. I rushed to the end and shrugged before tossing it aside.
I feel like the characters had such a great base for growth, there was so much potential to the world, so much that could have been developed-- but wasn't. So I was very underwhelmed.
The end.
I liked Graeme only a little better, because for all his... (whatever it was we were supposed to be impressed with) he was an idiot who refused to communicate at all, with anyone ever until writing down his thoughts and making a big, grand, empty, foolish gesture.
The end result was that I didn't care enough about either of them to be engaged. I rushed to the end and shrugged before tossing it aside.
I feel like the characters had such a great base for growth, there was so much potential to the world, so much that could have been developed-- but wasn't. So I was very underwhelmed.
The end.
December 12, 2013
I liked the basic concept of this story but there was just somethin that I feel was missing.
I would have loved more of Graeme's POV because honestly I didn't even know he loved her, I couldn't tell. Their love for each other felt rushed and I didn't even see them falling in love.
I started the book thinkin that Seri was the kind of person that rebelled all the rulings of the Anthon kingdom.....but was greatly disappointed. The only thing she seem to greatly object is just having to bow.She isn't a strong character either.
Overall, I just feel that everything in the story felt rushed and incomplete.
I would have loved more of Graeme's POV because honestly I didn't even know he loved her, I couldn't tell. Their love for each other felt rushed and I didn't even see them falling in love.
I started the book thinkin that Seri was the kind of person that rebelled all the rulings of the Anthon kingdom.....but was greatly disappointed. The only thing she seem to greatly object is just having to bow.She isn't a strong character either.
Overall, I just feel that everything in the story felt rushed and incomplete.
August 3, 2017
Betrothed is a cool, exciting story, that makes you believe in the plot and the characters.
Seri has lived her life in dire poverty, as have most of her people, since they were conquered by the cruel Athonites. Strange tales surround the Athonite royalty, including their strange customs of royal betrothal. They have an odd belief that their Goddess will sometimes favor a royal prince with a wife of her own choosing, with whom he can sire daughters. Otherwise he sires only sons. When a wealthy Athonite lady offers Seri more money than she has ever seen to act as her lady in waiting at the choosing, Seri cannot afford to refuse. But what she had not counted on was the Goddess choosing her.
Seri has lived her life in dire poverty, as have most of her people, since they were conquered by the cruel Athonites. Strange tales surround the Athonite royalty, including their strange customs of royal betrothal. They have an odd belief that their Goddess will sometimes favor a royal prince with a wife of her own choosing, with whom he can sire daughters. Otherwise he sires only sons. When a wealthy Athonite lady offers Seri more money than she has ever seen to act as her lady in waiting at the choosing, Seri cannot afford to refuse. But what she had not counted on was the Goddess choosing her.
November 30, 2017
It was a good book. Although what made me give it 4 stars was tat I found Seri to be frustrating because she did what Rilen told her to do when he was untrusting and a complete jerk. (I HATED HIM) Also she didn't tell Graeme how she truly felt and she cause the death of a girl from Graeme's kingdom and let her killers go. I mean I understand they were her people but the girl was innocent and she deserved justice because they were not going to be punished. She just felt guilty over a lot of things but didn't do anything or if she did she didn't try hard enough and it pissed me off but at least it all worked out in the end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 8, 2013
4.5 stars. This was just what the doctor ordered. A fast and entertaining vampire paranormal romance wrapped in a medieval-esque fantasy (not urban) world with a different bit of lore.
As is typical of Jill Myles the characters are engaging and easy to empathize with, even if it's it's not always clear who the good guys are at first. The relationship angst was "just right" for me, in that it wasn't over done, the reasons for it were plausible in terms of the story, and several characters grew a great deal through the course of the book.
It really was good, light, fun.
As is typical of Jill Myles the characters are engaging and easy to empathize with, even if it's it's not always clear who the good guys are at first. The relationship angst was "just right" for me, in that it wasn't over done, the reasons for it were plausible in terms of the story, and several characters grew a great deal through the course of the book.
It really was good, light, fun.
October 23, 2013
This was an ok read. I like romance stories like these set in fantasy but there was nothing spectacular about it either. Seri was an interesting character torn with conflict over her people and her new role. I did think she was very harsh on Graeme at first but I think it makes sense given who she is in that situation. Graeme is ok but I wanted more characterization from him. The vampire twist was a bit odd. Good romantic read for a rainy day.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews