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Roman’s Chronicles #1
Sanctuary
It’s not easy serving the Chernobog, the God of Destruction, Darkness and Death…especially during the holidays; and especially when you’re out of eggnog and one of your pesky, freeloading mythic creatures has eaten your last cookie.
Roman would like nothing more than to be left alone, but when a wounded boy stumbles into his yard and begs for sanctuary, Roman takes him in. Now elite mercenaries are camped out on his property, combat mages are dousing the house with fire, and strange priests are unleashing arcane magic. They thought Roman was easy pickings, just a hermit in the woods, but they chose the wrong dark priest to annoy. For while Roman might be patient, he is the Black Volhv, filled with the love of his terrible god. For his adversaries, it's a fight to the death, but for him, it's just another day in the neighborhood.
Roman would like nothing more than to be left alone, but when a wounded boy stumbles into his yard and begs for sanctuary, Roman takes him in. Now elite mercenaries are camped out on his property, combat mages are dousing the house with fire, and strange priests are unleashing arcane magic. They thought Roman was easy pickings, just a hermit in the woods, but they chose the wrong dark priest to annoy. For while Roman might be patient, he is the Black Volhv, filled with the love of his terrible god. For his adversaries, it's a fight to the death, but for him, it's just another day in the neighborhood.
152 pages, ebook
First published July 30, 2024
About the author
Ilona Andrews
151 books31.9k followersIlona Andrews is the pseudonym for a husband-and-wife writing team. Ilona is a native-born Russian and Gordon is a former communications sergeant in the U.S. Army. Contrary to popular belief, Gordon was never an intelligence officer with a license to kill, and Ilona was never the mysterious Russian spy who seduced him. They met in college, in English Composition 101, where Ilona got a better grade. (Gordon is still sore about that.)
Gordon and Ilona currently reside in Oregon with their two children, three dogs and a cat. They have co-authored two series, the bestselling urban fantasy of Kate Daniels and romantic urban fantasy of The Edge.
Gordon and Ilona currently reside in Oregon with their two children, three dogs and a cat. They have co-authored two series, the bestselling urban fantasy of Kate Daniels and romantic urban fantasy of The Edge.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 654 reviews
August 3, 2024
Review for the serial:
I usually don't read the serials on Andrews' website these days because I feel like the quality goes up and down, particularly with the Innkeeper series. When they release the final edition, many of those bumps have been smoothed out. However, when I heard about the new story devoted to Roman, priest of Chernobog, the God of Destruction, Darkness and Death, I couldn't resist.
I love what the Andrews team does with this world, but I love what they do with characters and their emotional arcs even more. Can't wait for the release, which will include "an extended epilogue." I pre-ordered so it'll be a fun surprise for me
I usually don't read the serials on Andrews' website these days because I feel like the quality goes up and down, particularly with the Innkeeper series. When they release the final edition, many of those bumps have been smoothed out. However, when I heard about the new story devoted to Roman, priest of Chernobog, the God of Destruction, Darkness and Death, I couldn't resist.
I love what the Andrews team does with this world, but I love what they do with characters and their emotional arcs even more. Can't wait for the release, which will include "an extended epilogue." I pre-ordered so it'll be a fun surprise for me
August 11, 2024
Peer Pressure.
It's not always a bad thing.
So.
While I had pre-ordered this like a good little IA fan, I was mercilessly bullied by not one, but two fellow Goodreaders into reading this in serial form.
For the purposes of this review, we'll call them Sarah who smells of shrimp & lowercase carol.
And while I love that IA puts their stuff out there for fans, I'm terrible about keeping up with the serial format. Plus, I simply did. not. have time for this.
So, it says a lot about how much I love the characters in this world that I was rather easily swayed to dive into this anyway. I did have to tell my family to piss off several times in order to get it done, though.
No, it's not the final-final draft.
I believe there will be an epilogue. <--desperately want the epilogue!!
But I have wanted a book about Roman since he first popped up in the KD world. And even though this is a short story, it packs a punch.
Rescuing a boy and his freaky puppy, potential romance with a girl whose shoelaces you may or may not have turned into snakes when you were children, taking in ugly pets, fighting mercenaries and mages, and dragging a Christmas tree in service to a dark god.
All in a day's work.
Also.
Backstory, backstory, backstory. <--we finally get a good bit of it!!!
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED for fans of Kate Daniels.
PS-
Just finished re-reading now that the book is out for reals.
It. is. excellent.
It's not always a bad thing.
So.
While I had pre-ordered this like a good little IA fan, I was mercilessly bullied by not one, but two fellow Goodreaders into reading this in serial form.
For the purposes of this review, we'll call them Sarah who smells of shrimp & lowercase carol.
And while I love that IA puts their stuff out there for fans, I'm terrible about keeping up with the serial format. Plus, I simply did. not. have time for this.
So, it says a lot about how much I love the characters in this world that I was rather easily swayed to dive into this anyway. I did have to tell my family to piss off several times in order to get it done, though.
No, it's not the final-final draft.
I believe there will be an epilogue. <--desperately want the epilogue!!
But I have wanted a book about Roman since he first popped up in the KD world. And even though this is a short story, it packs a punch.
Rescuing a boy and his freaky puppy, potential romance with a girl whose shoelaces you may or may not have turned into snakes when you were children, taking in ugly pets, fighting mercenaries and mages, and dragging a Christmas tree in service to a dark god.
All in a day's work.
Also.
Backstory, backstory, backstory. <--we finally get a good bit of it!!!
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED for fans of Kate Daniels.
PS-
Just finished re-reading now that the book is out for reals.
It. is. excellent.
August 12, 2024
3.5 stars
I wish this was longer. Also, listening to the audiobook made it hard to keep some of the mythological animals/characters straight in my mind. Oh well, still enjoyed it!
I wish this was longer. Also, listening to the audiobook made it hard to keep some of the mythological animals/characters straight in my mind. Oh well, still enjoyed it!
November 10, 2024
Actual rating: 4.56875986316 stars
➽ And the morals of this reread are:
① I'mkidnaping adopting Roman's menagerie of nechist, kolovershi, kolovertishi, anchutkas, and aukas. He can keep the melalo because I'm generous like that this little birdie's story is way too disturbing weird, even for me.
② Roman's convos with his beloved mother are some of the most heartwarming scenes in the book. And that is a scientifically proven fact.
P.S. Oh look, it turns out I never actually wrote a proper review for this story! Lucky you and stuff!
[Pre-review nonsense]
[April 5th, 2024]
No, it hasn't been released yet. Yes, I have read it already—in serial form 😬—and am therefore entitled to rate it and stuff. So there.
And now let us all dance for the Black Volhv's Eeyore sleepers.
➽ Actual (if Super Extra Short) review to come upon release and stuff.
➽ And the morals of this reread are:
① I'm
② Roman's convos with his beloved mother are some of the most heartwarming scenes in the book. And that is a scientifically proven fact.
“Have you had yourself checked?” “For what?” he snarled. “For low sperm count.” Roman groaned. “How is your testosterone? Or is that you are having trouble sealing the deal? If you’re having equipment malfunctions, I have herbs for that—” “Mother!” he roared.See what I mean?
P.S. Oh look, it turns out I never actually wrote a proper review for this story! Lucky you and stuff!
[Pre-review nonsense]
[April 5th, 2024]
No, it hasn't been released yet. Yes, I have read it already—in serial form 😬—and am therefore entitled to rate it and stuff. So there.
And now let us all dance for the Black Volhv
➽ Actual (if Super Extra Short) review to come upon release and stuff.
July 10, 2024
I love this world, love this world, love this world!!!!!
So, I'm guessing if the book is called Roman’s Chronicles, Book 1 that there will be a Book 2 and maybe if we are lucky a Book 3 too 🤞🏼🤞🏼 at least I hope so.
I honestly LOVE that this world is getting bigger and bigger and that we are getting these different POVs, from Julie and now from Roman.
Roman has always been one of my favorite characters. I love his snark and banter that comes out with whoever he meets, but mainly with Kate and Curran - because whom am I kidding???
And I'm so glad I waited for the full novella instead of reading a weekly serial. It's just not the same for me. Enjoying the full story without interruptions is just what I needed today.
I really enjoyed Roman's backstory and how he became Chernobog's volhv. Loved to learn more about his fascinating and chaotic family. And his little menagerie was just the icing on the cake. Roman is such a softie 😍
Surprisingly, Sanctuary wasn't exactly what I expected.
The novella feels like the beginning of a longer story. Which I'm not mad about.....
Because Roman is a character that is fascinating in his own right, and deserves a longer story than just a novella.
I adore his signature snark. But in Sanctuary he is also a broody Roman. Which I never would have guessed of him. And I swooned at his soft heart and his collecting of beasties. Working for the gods is not an easy job, and Sanctuary gave me a bigger glimpse of how Roman feels about his work and the slavic gods in this world.
My love for this world and its characters has not diminished over the years. It's still the BEST thing since sliced bread. And finishing one book just means that I'm craving the next one, and the next one, and the next one ...
___________________________________
I received a copy of this book from the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review. My opinions have not been influenced by the publisher or the author.
So, I'm guessing if the book is called Roman’s Chronicles, Book 1 that there will be a Book 2 and maybe if we are lucky a Book 3 too 🤞🏼🤞🏼 at least I hope so.
I honestly LOVE that this world is getting bigger and bigger and that we are getting these different POVs, from Julie and now from Roman.
Roman has always been one of my favorite characters. I love his snark and banter that comes out with whoever he meets, but mainly with Kate and Curran - because whom am I kidding???
And I'm so glad I waited for the full novella instead of reading a weekly serial. It's just not the same for me. Enjoying the full story without interruptions is just what I needed today.
I really enjoyed Roman's backstory and how he became Chernobog's volhv. Loved to learn more about his fascinating and chaotic family. And his little menagerie was just the icing on the cake. Roman is such a softie 😍
Surprisingly, Sanctuary wasn't exactly what I expected.
The novella feels like the beginning of a longer story. Which I'm not mad about.....
Because Roman is a character that is fascinating in his own right, and deserves a longer story than just a novella.
I adore his signature snark. But in Sanctuary he is also a broody Roman. Which I never would have guessed of him. And I swooned at his soft heart and his collecting of beasties. Working for the gods is not an easy job, and Sanctuary gave me a bigger glimpse of how Roman feels about his work and the slavic gods in this world.
My love for this world and its characters has not diminished over the years. It's still the BEST thing since sliced bread. And finishing one book just means that I'm craving the next one, and the next one, and the next one ...
___________________________________
I received a copy of this book from the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review. My opinions have not been influenced by the publisher or the author.
July 31, 2024
Happy publication day!
Love me an Ilona Andrwes book :)
This is a whole new world and I am here for it. It's also been ages since I read a book where the sole pov was a man, and I should be more intentional about it because this was just fascinating.
Why so short, I need more :(
Love me an Ilona Andrwes book :)
This is a whole new world and I am here for it. It's also been ages since I read a book where the sole pov was a man, and I should be more intentional about it because this was just fascinating.
Why so short, I need more :(
September 11, 2024
I truly don't remember Roman from the Kate Daniels world, but if you give me a book from Ilona Andrews, I'm going to read it. I'm an Ilona Andrews fan-girl.
Sanctuary was... dense. You need to wade through a ton of Slavic world-building and lore, and it didn't always quite hold my interest. This book can 100% be read as a stand-alone, so it isn't as though the Kate Daniels' books would really help here, but I'll admit I was confused at times. It was action-forward, and not romance-y, though there is certainly potential there, and it didn't hold my interest quite as well as some of the other more recent series by this author duo. However, I'm very hopeful that the following books in the series will be more engaging and easier to follow now that some of the groundwork is already there.
If Ilona Andrews is writing a book, I'm going to read it. Let's keep the momentum going.
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Sanctuary was... dense. You need to wade through a ton of Slavic world-building and lore, and it didn't always quite hold my interest. This book can 100% be read as a stand-alone, so it isn't as though the Kate Daniels' books would really help here, but I'll admit I was confused at times. It was action-forward, and not romance-y, though there is certainly potential there, and it didn't hold my interest quite as well as some of the other more recent series by this author duo. However, I'm very hopeful that the following books in the series will be more engaging and easier to follow now that some of the groundwork is already there.
If Ilona Andrews is writing a book, I'm going to read it. Let's keep the momentum going.
*~*Follow me on instagram for more reviews, book talk, and deals posts*~*
September 18, 2024
I will never get enough of books set in Kate Daniel‘s world! Roman the Black Volhv was already intriguing as a minor character in the main novels and here, in his very own novella, he continues to fascinate. I really love how what we consider traditional evil is turned on its head.
The adventure itself, Roman protecting a teenage boy from a mercenary group and some mysterious priest and warrior, relied heavily on Slavic myth and as ever I enjoyed what the Andrews made of it. A very quick, fun 130 pages I‘d recommend to anyone who loves the Kate Daniels series. (Note that Kate herself and our usual cast of characters does not appear here.)
The adventure itself, Roman protecting a teenage boy from a mercenary group and some mysterious priest and warrior, relied heavily on Slavic myth and as ever I enjoyed what the Andrews made of it. A very quick, fun 130 pages I‘d recommend to anyone who loves the Kate Daniels series. (Note that Kate herself and our usual cast of characters does not appear here.)
July 25, 2024
Thank you to Netgalley for granting my wish for the Audiobook version of this book. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I have wanted a Roman story since Andrea's novella. The dark Volhv who sometimes shows up in a variety of silly pajamas from time to time finally gets a story of his own. The Slavic gods are really interesting and getting to see Roman at his home protecting a boy and his dog that showed up asking for sanctuary makes me think he can't be all that evil.
It is time to see what Roman and Chernobog can do when a group of mercenaries come looking for the boy and the only thing separating them is a stretch of land Roman has carefully cultivated. Remember, Roman is beloved by evil things, which means he has some nasties living there along with a plethora of unusual creatures that are only slightly evil sometimes. Roman only seems rivaled by House Harrison in the pet department.
I thoroughly enjoyed this trip through Ilona Andrews ideas for Slavic lore. Going through Nav and learning how a few of the gods interact along with Roman's origin story was just everything I was hoping for. Roman really is soft hearted to belong to a death god but probably brings great balance to that god as well. It is hard being devoted to a god and can definitely mess up your dating life, but maybe Roman has a shot with the character introduced within this story, since she also serves the gods.
As always Ilona Andrews brings creativity and ingenuity into lore that isn't commonly known and creates something magical. My only complaint is that it wasn't long enough...but that is always my complaint when I have to step out of one of the worlds they have created. From the ending, I'm thinking we could possibly get another story with Roman as the MC, we can only cross our fingers and pray to Chernobog or whoever else has blessed Ilona Andrews that happens.
Narration:
They got Chris Brinkley! He is the voice of all the Winston Brother's books by Penny Reid and I have loved his voice since I first heard it in that series and all the spin offs. He is a fantastic pick for our Dark Volhv, his voice is so rich and can do the slight accent I always assumed Roman to have with his Russian heritage. I read this when it was posted on IAs blog but he helped to really bring out the best in the story and made it all the more enjoyable.
I have wanted a Roman story since Andrea's novella. The dark Volhv who sometimes shows up in a variety of silly pajamas from time to time finally gets a story of his own. The Slavic gods are really interesting and getting to see Roman at his home protecting a boy and his dog that showed up asking for sanctuary makes me think he can't be all that evil.
It is time to see what Roman and Chernobog can do when a group of mercenaries come looking for the boy and the only thing separating them is a stretch of land Roman has carefully cultivated. Remember, Roman is beloved by evil things, which means he has some nasties living there along with a plethora of unusual creatures that are only slightly evil sometimes. Roman only seems rivaled by House Harrison in the pet department.
I thoroughly enjoyed this trip through Ilona Andrews ideas for Slavic lore. Going through Nav and learning how a few of the gods interact along with Roman's origin story was just everything I was hoping for. Roman really is soft hearted to belong to a death god but probably brings great balance to that god as well. It is hard being devoted to a god and can definitely mess up your dating life, but maybe Roman has a shot with the character introduced within this story, since she also serves the gods.
“Those trees in the distance are the Twilight Forest, where wolves of Doubt and Uncertainty prowl. The open ground you see is the Grueling Field, where spirits of the punished plant and plow, but never reap or harvest. It is a place of thankless work, nourished by worries that plagued humankind since farming began. A place where seedlings die from crippling frost and plants are felled by cruel wind. The pines around us are the Evening Forest, where the birds of Regret and Missed Chances shriek and wail. When we pass through it, we will enter the Glades of Remembrance. They will make you relive your most painful memories.”
As always Ilona Andrews brings creativity and ingenuity into lore that isn't commonly known and creates something magical. My only complaint is that it wasn't long enough...but that is always my complaint when I have to step out of one of the worlds they have created. From the ending, I'm thinking we could possibly get another story with Roman as the MC, we can only cross our fingers and pray to Chernobog or whoever else has blessed Ilona Andrews that happens.
Narration:
They got Chris Brinkley! He is the voice of all the Winston Brother's books by Penny Reid and I have loved his voice since I first heard it in that series and all the spin offs. He is a fantastic pick for our Dark Volhv, his voice is so rich and can do the slight accent I always assumed Roman to have with his Russian heritage. I read this when it was posted on IAs blog but he helped to really bring out the best in the story and made it all the more enjoyable.
July 25, 2024
Ilona Andrews books are the kind of books I read over and over again and the Kate Daniels world the most. So it was a no brainer that when I knew this book was coming out I knew I would need to read it. I may have squealed when my Netgalley wish was granted. I have always loved Ramon and was eager to read more about him and from his perspective. This book did not disappoint. I listened to the audiobook and I thought the narrator did an ok job although it wasn’t quite the voice for Ramon I had imagined or hoped for. Ramon isn’t the priest anyone chooses to come to. He serves a dark god, but when he wanders outside and finds a bleeding teenaged boy on his property he is confused. When the boy wakes up only to speak “sanctuary” he’s beyond curious but also the type of dark priest that no one should plan on crossing.
August 7, 2024
Book 16 of the
2024 Read Your Hoard Challenge
So, yesterday I got an email from my favourite bookstore. Your order is ready. It was 3:30 pm. I checked their hours. They are open until 5:30. It is rush hour, but I should be able to do this thing. I hop in the car and head into the rat race. I've been retired for a while and this feels weird now. I pick up my books and battle traffic on my way home. I do the necessary tasks for the evening, then settle in with Roman.
I had read a lot of this story on the Andrews' blog. I still enjoyed it very much this time around. I loved Roman's menagerie of odd critters. I enjoyed the Andrews’ version of Slavic mythology. It was great to learn about Roman's personal history. The witches and volhvs entertained me during the Kate Daniels books, so this was like a favourite treat. I remember smiling when Roman flirted with Andrea as well as when he tangled with Kate. Kate holding his staff hostage. The family fight at the big conclave (the one to deal with the magic-eliminating device).
I always suspected that Chernobog was (as Roman explains to Finn) a dark god, not an evil god. There is no life without death. That's not evil, it's just a fact. I know certain folks of the Book Devouring Horde have a thing for Roman. (I'm more of a Luther fan, myself.) But I love and adore the Kate Daniels world and I am so glad to have added this novella to my collection. I reread it this morning. I am an inveterate rereader, so I have absolutely no doubt that I will read it many times in the future. Thank you, Ilona and Gordon, for adding to a beloved series.
So, yesterday I got an email from my favourite bookstore. Your order is ready. It was 3:30 pm. I checked their hours. They are open until 5:30. It is rush hour, but I should be able to do this thing. I hop in the car and head into the rat race. I've been retired for a while and this feels weird now. I pick up my books and battle traffic on my way home. I do the necessary tasks for the evening, then settle in with Roman.
I had read a lot of this story on the Andrews' blog. I still enjoyed it very much this time around. I loved Roman's menagerie of odd critters. I enjoyed the Andrews’ version of Slavic mythology. It was great to learn about Roman's personal history. The witches and volhvs entertained me during the Kate Daniels books, so this was like a favourite treat. I remember smiling when Roman flirted with Andrea as well as when he tangled with Kate. Kate holding his staff hostage. The family fight at the big conclave (the one to deal with the magic-eliminating device).
I always suspected that Chernobog was (as Roman explains to Finn) a dark god, not an evil god. There is no life without death. That's not evil, it's just a fact. I know certain folks of the Book Devouring Horde have a thing for Roman. (I'm more of a Luther fan, myself.) But I love and adore the Kate Daniels world and I am so glad to have added this novella to my collection. I reread it this morning. I am an inveterate rereader, so I have absolutely no doubt that I will read it many times in the future. Thank you, Ilona and Gordon, for adding to a beloved series.
August 19, 2024
Thank goodness these authors have such a wide variety of characters from their main series because inevitably they satisfy the desires of the horde and surprise is with companion stories from POVs we either always wanted or never knew we wanted and in this case, for me, it's the later. And then they make their interesting character (because let's be real they are always interesting in some way) even more interesting -- and layered! First, Hugh. Now, Roman.
Having said that, while I maybe didn't fall head over heels for this one, I am definitely intrigued, I definitely want more, and I can definitely see myself loving the instalments to come. Especially considering a certain dynamic that came late in the game that I think might inspire said love.
Need a hook? A broody dark but maybe misunderstood non-baddie and his weird little creature menagerie get an unexpected visitor, and comes to terms with his guilt, at Christmas.
---
This review can also be found at A Take From Two Cities.
Having said that, while I maybe didn't fall head over heels for this one, I am definitely intrigued, I definitely want more, and I can definitely see myself loving the instalments to come. Especially considering a certain dynamic that came late in the game that I think might inspire said love.
Need a hook? A broody dark but maybe misunderstood non-baddie and his weird little creature menagerie get an unexpected visitor, and comes to terms with his guilt, at Christmas.
---
This review can also be found at A Take From Two Cities.
July 31, 2024
4.5 Stars
Roman is grumpy, back from a task assigned by his Slavic god, Chernobog, still not complete, but he has the Koliada, the Winter Festival off. All he wants is to rest, sip eggnog and eat cookies, but things change when a teenage boy and his puppy (cue heart eyes!) shows up on his property and asks for sanctuary.
You’d think Roman, a Dark Volhv serving an evil god wouldn’t be a big-hearted softy, but “evil” in this story isn’t defined in the traditional sense. Soon after taking the boy in, a band of mercenaries show up determined to take the boy and the dog, but they have another thing coming if they think Roman’s just going to give him up. It was fun to see them underestimate Roman and his rag-tag bunch of strange and lethal creatures, adorable in their own odd way!
I’m a big fan of Ilona Andrews! It was fun to have Roman fleshed out, as I’ve liked him in the Kate Daniels series. Sanctuary was a fun, fast read, action-packed and infused with Andrews’ signature humor! Things wrapped up, but there were paths left open and I’m eager for more stories! A possible romance a-brewing? I’m all in!
I listened to the audio version with Chris Brinkley, a narrator I’ve enjoyed in the past, performing. His pronunciation of what seemed to be to me, difficult words (gods, mythology, etc.) was smooth and well done! I thoroughly enjoyed his performance! I listened at my usual 1.5x normal speed.
I voluntarily listened to an advanced audio copy courtesy of the publisher. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Roman is grumpy, back from a task assigned by his Slavic god, Chernobog, still not complete, but he has the Koliada, the Winter Festival off. All he wants is to rest, sip eggnog and eat cookies, but things change when a teenage boy and his puppy (cue heart eyes!) shows up on his property and asks for sanctuary.
You’d think Roman, a Dark Volhv serving an evil god wouldn’t be a big-hearted softy, but “evil” in this story isn’t defined in the traditional sense. Soon after taking the boy in, a band of mercenaries show up determined to take the boy and the dog, but they have another thing coming if they think Roman’s just going to give him up. It was fun to see them underestimate Roman and his rag-tag bunch of strange and lethal creatures, adorable in their own odd way!
I’m a big fan of Ilona Andrews! It was fun to have Roman fleshed out, as I’ve liked him in the Kate Daniels series. Sanctuary was a fun, fast read, action-packed and infused with Andrews’ signature humor! Things wrapped up, but there were paths left open and I’m eager for more stories! A possible romance a-brewing? I’m all in!
I listened to the audio version with Chris Brinkley, a narrator I’ve enjoyed in the past, performing. His pronunciation of what seemed to be to me, difficult words (gods, mythology, etc.) was smooth and well done! I thoroughly enjoyed his performance! I listened at my usual 1.5x normal speed.
I voluntarily listened to an advanced audio copy courtesy of the publisher. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 31, 2024
Yazar ağzımıza bir parmak bal çaldı gitti yine.🙄
Bu evreni seviyorum ama bazen aşırı bilgi yüklemesi yaşıyor gibiyim. Özellikle de pek bilmediğim bir mitolojik evrene atıflar olduğunda.
Ben Hugh karakterine kitap beklerken Pagan bir Rahip olan Roman'dan kısa bir okuma aldık.Hakkında anlatılacak daha çok şey var ve bu belli ki giriş kısmıydı.Ama yine de başlarda biraz sıkıldım.Belki havalardandır.
Olaya başka bir karakter de dahil olunca ilgim uyandı.Geçmişleri vs. yine merak ettirdi.Ama çok hızlı anlatılmış sanki.Bu olaylar daha fazla detayı hak ediyordu.
Bu evreni seviyorum ama bazen aşırı bilgi yüklemesi yaşıyor gibiyim. Özellikle de pek bilmediğim bir mitolojik evrene atıflar olduğunda.
Ben Hugh karakterine kitap beklerken Pagan bir Rahip olan Roman'dan kısa bir okuma aldık.Hakkında anlatılacak daha çok şey var ve bu belli ki giriş kısmıydı.Ama yine de başlarda biraz sıkıldım.Belki havalardandır.
Olaya başka bir karakter de dahil olunca ilgim uyandı.Geçmişleri vs. yine merak ettirdi.Ama çok hızlı anlatılmış sanki.Bu olaylar daha fazla detayı hak ediyordu.
July 31, 2024
Well, Ilona Andrews has done it again, taken a man from the Kate Daniels universe for whom I had an instinctive dislike and made him into a (sort of) hero. The last time she did this was with 'Iron And Magic' when she made Hugh d’Ambray, Preceptor of the Iron Dogs, Warlord of the Builder of Towers, a violent, amoral, narcissistic killer, into a person rather than a monster. This time she's taken Roman Semionovich, Black Volhv, servant of Chernoblog, God of Destruction, Darkn ess and Death, made him into a protector of the innocent and shown him to be a man labouring under an over-heavy burden of guilt-ridden duty.
'Sanctuary' is an entertaining novella, heavy on magical fights, family history and Slavic mythology (which is not as dark as it seems and sometimes is almost cute - if a two-headed vulture with one dead head can be cute), As always, the magical fights are vivid and convincing, escalating from the confrontational standoff to high body count epic conflict.
Roman is surprisingly soft-hearted: a sort of dark shadow of Saint Francis in his treatment of darkling creatures; kind to children and puppies and reluctant to kill the bad guys invading his land unless he absolutely has to (of course, he DOES absolutely have to - in surprisingly large numbers an with great ingenuity).
All the Slavic myths were new to me (I didn't even know how to pronounce most of the names) but Ilona Andrews brought it to life a little at a time without making me feel that I was being lectured.
'Sanctuary' is an alternative Christmas story, that supplants to Christian myths with older Slavic ones and celebrates Koliada but kinda sorta keeps the Christmas spirit. There was even a point, when Roman was in The Glades Of Remembrance, that the story almost hit an 'It's A Wonderful Life' note. As well as being an action-packed story of a lone Volhv standing against a group of magical mercenaries looking to abduct a child, 'Sanctuary' is about duty and guilt and family and foregiveness. That's an impressive achievement in a 130 page novella.
'Sanctuary' is an entertaining novella, heavy on magical fights, family history and Slavic mythology (which is not as dark as it seems and sometimes is almost cute - if a two-headed vulture with one dead head can be cute), As always, the magical fights are vivid and convincing, escalating from the confrontational standoff to high body count epic conflict.
Roman is surprisingly soft-hearted: a sort of dark shadow of Saint Francis in his treatment of darkling creatures; kind to children and puppies and reluctant to kill the bad guys invading his land unless he absolutely has to (of course, he DOES absolutely have to - in surprisingly large numbers an with great ingenuity).
All the Slavic myths were new to me (I didn't even know how to pronounce most of the names) but Ilona Andrews brought it to life a little at a time without making me feel that I was being lectured.
'Sanctuary' is an alternative Christmas story, that supplants to Christian myths with older Slavic ones and celebrates Koliada but kinda sorta keeps the Christmas spirit. There was even a point, when Roman was in The Glades Of Remembrance, that the story almost hit an 'It's A Wonderful Life' note. As well as being an action-packed story of a lone Volhv standing against a group of magical mercenaries looking to abduct a child, 'Sanctuary' is about duty and guilt and family and foregiveness. That's an impressive achievement in a 130 page novella.
July 12, 2024
Series Info/Source: This is the 1st book in Roman's Chronicles a spin-off series from the Kate Daniels World. I got an eGalley of this to review through NetGalley.
Thoughts: I wanted to give this four stars because I wanted to love it, but after writing this review I just can't. I didn't even really like this one, so even three stars feels high to me. I have loved so many of the Kate Daniels' books that I wonder if my expectations were too high. This book is the start of another spin-off series in the Kate Daniels world this time following Roman, a minor character from the original series that serves the God Chernobog. I was actually hoping this was a new project for them rather than yet another Kate Daniels extension.
We start off with Roman enjoying the Christmas holidays off from his godly duties...that is until a wounded boy wanders onto his property and begs sanctuary. Shortly after that, mercenaries start attacking Roman and his creatures in an effort to get to the boy.
I did not engage with this book very well. A lot of it feels like a lecture on Russian folklore/mythology rather than a good story. I also couldn't remember Roman from the original series (my husband has read the series more recently and tried to explain to me how Roman relates to everything else). Again, this may be on me...I read a lot of books and a lot of them have characters named Roman in them... Even after having my husband remind me, I only had vague inklings of the part Roman played in the original series.
This felt a bit fan fiction-like to me and not as professional as other books they have released. I am usually a huge Andrews fan and was very excited to see this was coming out. I was just completely underwhelmed by it. There are long portions of the book that were fight scenes that were hard to picture despite the huge amount of description. This was broken up by journeys to a godly dimension where dreamlike scenes took place. I did not have any connection to the characters and found all the terminology thrown at the reader made things even harder to visualize. Despite this being short, I struggled and was happy just to get through it.
I did find some of the Russian folklore intriguing, but so much is thrown at the reader at once that it feels more like an info dump than a story. I think the index should have been put at the front of the book so readers could read that before trying to dive into all this Russian terminology. It was hard to picture the creatures and follow some of the story because of this.
I can't help but sigh at the fact that this is another first book in a new Kate Daniels spin off series...are any of these series going to go anywhere? What happened to the Aurelia Ryder series and the Iron Covenant series? It would be great to get completion on one of those series before yet another spin-off series is started, and on such a minor character too. I just feel like there's no cohesion here. Which I guess...if they can sell it, then why not.
My Summary (3/5): Overall this was disappointing to me. I am a huge Andrews fan and generally love everything they write. However, this book felt off to me. The writing wasn't as professional; the balance between character development, action, and story wasn't there. The way this alternates between battles and mythology info dump was jarring and had me struggling to stay engaged. Not to mention the disappointment at yet another spin-off series being started but all the other spin-off series being left unfinished.
Thoughts: I wanted to give this four stars because I wanted to love it, but after writing this review I just can't. I didn't even really like this one, so even three stars feels high to me. I have loved so many of the Kate Daniels' books that I wonder if my expectations were too high. This book is the start of another spin-off series in the Kate Daniels world this time following Roman, a minor character from the original series that serves the God Chernobog. I was actually hoping this was a new project for them rather than yet another Kate Daniels extension.
We start off with Roman enjoying the Christmas holidays off from his godly duties...that is until a wounded boy wanders onto his property and begs sanctuary. Shortly after that, mercenaries start attacking Roman and his creatures in an effort to get to the boy.
I did not engage with this book very well. A lot of it feels like a lecture on Russian folklore/mythology rather than a good story. I also couldn't remember Roman from the original series (my husband has read the series more recently and tried to explain to me how Roman relates to everything else). Again, this may be on me...I read a lot of books and a lot of them have characters named Roman in them... Even after having my husband remind me, I only had vague inklings of the part Roman played in the original series.
This felt a bit fan fiction-like to me and not as professional as other books they have released. I am usually a huge Andrews fan and was very excited to see this was coming out. I was just completely underwhelmed by it. There are long portions of the book that were fight scenes that were hard to picture despite the huge amount of description. This was broken up by journeys to a godly dimension where dreamlike scenes took place. I did not have any connection to the characters and found all the terminology thrown at the reader made things even harder to visualize. Despite this being short, I struggled and was happy just to get through it.
I did find some of the Russian folklore intriguing, but so much is thrown at the reader at once that it feels more like an info dump than a story. I think the index should have been put at the front of the book so readers could read that before trying to dive into all this Russian terminology. It was hard to picture the creatures and follow some of the story because of this.
I can't help but sigh at the fact that this is another first book in a new Kate Daniels spin off series...are any of these series going to go anywhere? What happened to the Aurelia Ryder series and the Iron Covenant series? It would be great to get completion on one of those series before yet another spin-off series is started, and on such a minor character too. I just feel like there's no cohesion here. Which I guess...if they can sell it, then why not.
My Summary (3/5): Overall this was disappointing to me. I am a huge Andrews fan and generally love everything they write. However, this book felt off to me. The writing wasn't as professional; the balance between character development, action, and story wasn't there. The way this alternates between battles and mythology info dump was jarring and had me struggling to stay engaged. Not to mention the disappointment at yet another spin-off series being started but all the other spin-off series being left unfinished.
August 8, 2024
Interesting, bloody, cute and entertaining.
Love me some mythology!
Love snarky but softie recluse Roman!
I've only read Innkeepers chronicles from this author but I think I need more of this fascinating world/worlds, mythologies or whatever.
Love me some mythology!
Love snarky but softie recluse Roman!
I've only read Innkeepers chronicles from this author but I think I need more of this fascinating world/worlds, mythologies or whatever.
August 30, 2024
Stop the presses, I think I'm in love! 😍😍😍
Roman was a fascinating character in Kate Daniels series but this is where we truly get to know him. You'd never think of a Death god priest that he'd be a deeply moral upstanding guy in touch with his feelings, sheltering a ragtag pack of magical critters, saving strangers, and breaking fools. Gives you a pause, right? Just another example of how you shouldn't just judge people on the face of things.
I'm so ready for this new chapter of the KD universe. Bring it on!
Oh and the Slavic mythology is top notch as always.
Over and out
Roman was a fascinating character in Kate Daniels series but this is where we truly get to know him. You'd never think of a Death god priest that he'd be a deeply moral upstanding guy in touch with his feelings, sheltering a ragtag pack of magical critters, saving strangers, and breaking fools. Gives you a pause, right? Just another example of how you shouldn't just judge people on the face of things.
I'm so ready for this new chapter of the KD universe. Bring it on!
Oh and the Slavic mythology is top notch as always.
Over and out
September 9, 2024
3.5 stars
I don't remember Roman. Like, at all. It's my fault - I don't remember details and I don't do re-read. I love Kate Daniels series but the ones stood out for me were Kate, Curran, and Derek. I probably remember the other characters when I read that series. Except Roman. Again, I don't remember him.
No worries, I still enjoy this one - most of the times. But it's VERY HEAVY on the Slavic myth, and those names and the explanations were enough to make my brain froze. I did love Roman's menagerie though. And I kind of hoping that Finn will end up staying with Roman as well.
Good start.
I don't remember Roman. Like, at all. It's my fault - I don't remember details and I don't do re-read. I love Kate Daniels series but the ones stood out for me were Kate, Curran, and Derek. I probably remember the other characters when I read that series. Except Roman. Again, I don't remember him.
No worries, I still enjoy this one - most of the times. But it's VERY HEAVY on the Slavic myth, and those names and the explanations were enough to make my brain froze. I did love Roman's menagerie though. And I kind of hoping that Finn will end up staying with Roman as well.
Good start.
November 3, 2024
Just what I needed.
July 21, 2024
3.5-4 strange way to end this book especially since there are so many questions left lingering.
August 20, 2024
I’ve enjoyed interactions with Roman in the Kate Daniels series, so I was excited to spend time with him. Roman, a Dark Volhv, serves the Slavic god Chernobog, the God of Destruction, Darkness, and Death. He is in the middle of a task, but it’s Koliada and all he really wants to do is drink eggnog, eat cookies and rest. All of that changes when he discovers a young boy and his dog. Trouble is following them and the tale that unfolds was addictive.
This is a fun intro to the Kate Daniels world if you haven’t read/listened to the series. For fans, it was fantastic getting to know a character from within the world. The Andrews are fantastic storytellers, and I gobble up anything they write.
Roman is grumpy, but he also has a soft spot for animals, strays and I delighted in the telling of this story. We get Roman’s backstory and learn how he became the Black Volhv. We battle mercenaries, learn about the young boy, a fallen Volhv, and complete a task for a god. The creatures we encounter are unique and provide humor and aid. Good times.
Chris Brinkley did a stellar job of capturing Roman and the others. He enhanced an already brilliant tale and I hope he’ll be back for the next audiobook.
I highly recommend Sanctuary and all the books/audiobooks written by Ilona Andrews. If they write it, I will buy it and recommend them to fans of urban fantasy, mythology, kick-ass characters, humor, magic and more. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
This is a fun intro to the Kate Daniels world if you haven’t read/listened to the series. For fans, it was fantastic getting to know a character from within the world. The Andrews are fantastic storytellers, and I gobble up anything they write.
Roman is grumpy, but he also has a soft spot for animals, strays and I delighted in the telling of this story. We get Roman’s backstory and learn how he became the Black Volhv. We battle mercenaries, learn about the young boy, a fallen Volhv, and complete a task for a god. The creatures we encounter are unique and provide humor and aid. Good times.
Chris Brinkley did a stellar job of capturing Roman and the others. He enhanced an already brilliant tale and I hope he’ll be back for the next audiobook.
I highly recommend Sanctuary and all the books/audiobooks written by Ilona Andrews. If they write it, I will buy it and recommend them to fans of urban fantasy, mythology, kick-ass characters, humor, magic and more. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
November 23, 2024
Readers encounter a certain Black Volhv priest to Chernabog early on in the Kate Daniels’ series who then becomes the occasional recurring character. Ilona Andrews writes an amazing world, plot, and characters and this is especially true because readers like me fall for the minor characters right along with the main talent. Roman is just such a one and I was jazzed as can be to see him get his own story beginning with this Sanctuary novella.
Slavic mythology and the post-apocalypse urban fantasy world of Kate Daniels blend for the backdrop for an engaging dark priest-style adventure. Roman, avoiding the winter holidays with family and fretting about not getting some well-earned time off from his godly boss, gives sanctuary to a mysterious teen boy who arrives in his back woods just before a cocky group of mercs show up demanding Roman hand over the kid.
Roman’s got his own magic, his own menagerie posse, and a grumpy attitude so the demand doesn’t set well and he digs in for a good scrap with all the mercs and their magical support throw at him.
When all is said and done, readers get a fabulous insight into Roman’s entertaining perceptions, his way of mentoring the young man who turns out to need the sort of guidance that only one like Roman can give, and the revelation of Roman’s past which gets some strong resolution through the quirk of a god.
Sanctuary wraps up in a good place, but leaves space for further adventures for Roman and his new-old acquaintances along with his adopted crowd of unusual pets. Roman is a wonderful nuanced character I look forward to knowing better as his chronicles progress. Incidentally, there is a bonus short story at the end following up on a small portion of the novella. Kate Daniels’ fans are the primary target for this book since it would be a hard place for new readers to jump in though I suppose it could be done.
My full review will post at The Reading Frenzy 9.17.24.
Slavic mythology and the post-apocalypse urban fantasy world of Kate Daniels blend for the backdrop for an engaging dark priest-style adventure. Roman, avoiding the winter holidays with family and fretting about not getting some well-earned time off from his godly boss, gives sanctuary to a mysterious teen boy who arrives in his back woods just before a cocky group of mercs show up demanding Roman hand over the kid.
Roman’s got his own magic, his own menagerie posse, and a grumpy attitude so the demand doesn’t set well and he digs in for a good scrap with all the mercs and their magical support throw at him.
When all is said and done, readers get a fabulous insight into Roman’s entertaining perceptions, his way of mentoring the young man who turns out to need the sort of guidance that only one like Roman can give, and the revelation of Roman’s past which gets some strong resolution through the quirk of a god.
Sanctuary wraps up in a good place, but leaves space for further adventures for Roman and his new-old acquaintances along with his adopted crowd of unusual pets. Roman is a wonderful nuanced character I look forward to knowing better as his chronicles progress. Incidentally, there is a bonus short story at the end following up on a small portion of the novella. Kate Daniels’ fans are the primary target for this book since it would be a hard place for new readers to jump in though I suppose it could be done.
My full review will post at The Reading Frenzy 9.17.24.
August 1, 2024
Roman's menagerie DELIGHTED me so much. This definitely wasn't what I ever expected from a Roman story, much as I have always coveted one, but I am so, so pleased with. I do agree that it feels prequel-like, and if we never get more I will be sad but I will also be fine because again, just so pleased that this exists!!
July 30, 2024
Great insight into a side character from the Kate Daniel’s series. I loved Roman in this short book! He is kind of an Eeyore (love the PJs, btw!!!) character who must represent the God of Destruction but he does so with a surprisingly good and kind heart. I wasn’t all that into all the “Gods” stuff, and of course, I wish the story were a full novel… but that happens every single time I read an IA book. I just want more!!
August 8, 2024
4.5 quick novella stars
August 15, 2024
This was a fun novella focused on Roman and his backstory (along with a heaping amount of Slavic mythology). The main antagonistic drive of the story fizzled out completely, but Roman's backstory and emotional arc was pretty great to see.
August 5, 2024
Between 2 and 3. Inferences based in the knowledge of Ilona's world building with no enforcement of those conclusions to be found. Also the third person perspective kept throwing me. Was "he" Roman or Finn? etc. My brain also tried to loop Dresden in here in place of Roman...completely me? I don't know.
August 4, 2024
Stars: 5 out of 5.
I read this when it was published in serial format on the authors blog, then patiently waited for the release of the finished book. I loved it!
Kate Daniels series was my gateway into the wonderful works of Ilona Andrews, and still remains my favorite series to this day. And Roman is such a fun character to learn more about. He acts all brooding and cynical, but has a heart of gold. Watching him slowly amass his managery of netchist and other magical critters and caring for them, all while complaining about it, is very heart warming. Trigger found a good home.
The whole story had a very warm and fuzzy feeling to it, even though it takes place in the middle of winter in the realm of a winter goddess.
I would definitely love more Roman adventures in the future.
I read this when it was published in serial format on the authors blog, then patiently waited for the release of the finished book. I loved it!
Kate Daniels series was my gateway into the wonderful works of Ilona Andrews, and still remains my favorite series to this day. And Roman is such a fun character to learn more about. He acts all brooding and cynical, but has a heart of gold. Watching him slowly amass his managery of netchist and other magical critters and caring for them, all while complaining about it, is very heart warming. Trigger found a good home.
The whole story had a very warm and fuzzy feeling to it, even though it takes place in the middle of winter in the realm of a winter goddess.
I would definitely love more Roman adventures in the future.
July 30, 2024
I loved that we are getting Roman’s book. He was always such an interesting side character in the Kate Daniel series. I loved learning more about him. You first learn in the Kate Daniel series that he has a big heart despite serving the God of Destruction. His good heart just shines even more in Sanctuary. I loved his menagerie of animals that he begrudgingly takes care of and it only made sense that he would protect and mentor his unexpected guest seeking sanctuary. I highly recommend the audiobook because the narrator Chris Brinkley was a delight to listen too. He’s a new narrator for me and I absolutely loved his voice!
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