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The Black Jewels #5
Dreams Made Flesh
Return to the realm of the Blood in Dreams Made Flesh鈥攆eaturing four revelatory all-new adventures of Jaenelle and her kindred鈥�.
Jaenelle is the most powerful Witch ever known, centuries of hopes and dreams made flesh at last. She has forged ties with three of the realm鈥檚 mightiest Blood warriors: Saetan, the High Lord of Hell, who trains Jaenelle in magic and adopts her as his daughter; Lucivar, the winged Eyrien warlord who becomes her protector; and the near-immortal Daemon born to be Witch鈥檚 lover. Jaenelle has assumed her rightful place as Queen of the Darkness and restored order and peace to the realms鈥ut at a terrible cost.
In Dreams Made Flesh, discover the origin of the mystical Jewels, and experience the forbidden passion between Lucivar and a simple hearth witch. Witness the clash between Saetan and a Priestess that may forever change reality. And learn whether the sacrifice of Jaenelle鈥檚 magic has destroyed any hope of happiness between her and Daemon.
Jaenelle is the most powerful Witch ever known, centuries of hopes and dreams made flesh at last. She has forged ties with three of the realm鈥檚 mightiest Blood warriors: Saetan, the High Lord of Hell, who trains Jaenelle in magic and adopts her as his daughter; Lucivar, the winged Eyrien warlord who becomes her protector; and the near-immortal Daemon born to be Witch鈥檚 lover. Jaenelle has assumed her rightful place as Queen of the Darkness and restored order and peace to the realms鈥ut at a terrible cost.
In Dreams Made Flesh, discover the origin of the mystical Jewels, and experience the forbidden passion between Lucivar and a simple hearth witch. Witness the clash between Saetan and a Priestess that may forever change reality. And learn whether the sacrifice of Jaenelle鈥檚 magic has destroyed any hope of happiness between her and Daemon.
439 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 2, 2005
413 people are currently reading
6,137 people want to read
About the author
Anne Bishop
59听books10.4k听followersAnne Bishop lives in upstate New York where she enjoys gardening, music, and writing dark, romantic stories. She is the author of over twenty novels, including the award-winning Black Jewels Trilogy. She has written a new series, the Others, which is an urban dark fantasy with a bit of a twist.
Crawford Award (2000)
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. .
Crawford Award (2000)
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. .
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 445 reviews
July 19, 2019
Overall Rating 4 Stars 鈽� 鈽嗏湴猸�
Dreams Made Flesh is a compilation of stories told in the world of the Black Jewels. It is four stories of various lengths and I can鈥檛 say that I usually enjoy that since you don鈥檛 get the same depth in a short story but since we have a lot of world building and knowledge of this world it works.
鈽� 鈽嗏湴 Weaver of Dreams is a pretty short story of how the Black Widows and Weavers were gifted their magic from one of Draka鈥檚 daughters. It is a cute story shown from the perspective of a spider and that isn鈥檛 something you read every day. Because it is so short it wasn鈥檛 my favorite of the compilation.
鈽� 鈽嗏湴猸愨湬The Prince of Ebon Rih is my favorite story in this book and the main reason I鈥檇 recommend reading it. It is set before Queen of Darkness, which is great since I was so confused with Lucivar was already married in it and we鈥檇 never read anything about his wife prior to that.
Marian comes from a family that didn鈥檛 value her because she was a hearth witch and not powerfully jeweled. After her father makes an unforgivable bargain, Marian is saved from a horrible fate and ends up in Lucivar鈥檚 household.
I loved the story of how Lucivar and Marian became friendly and then more than friendly. They had plenty of things to overcome due to his power being so much greater than hers, his mother鈥檚 interference and Roxy who is a spiteful little twit. But the patience that Lucivar shows to Marian to make her his wife eventually was incredibly tender and sweet.
So happy for his HEA love story.
鈽� 鈽嗏湴猸� Zuulaman explains why even though it might have been easier to kill Lucivar or Daemon, Heckatah wouldn鈥檛 dare. Saetan has been the mentor in these books. He is the quiet patient man with crazy kids and kindred running around everywhere. But once he walked in the land of the living and married the wrong woman, once she tried to play him and an entire people paid for her vicious game. This story shows that even when you thought you hated Heckatah as much as possible, you are wrong and could hate her more. Saetan is a powerful man and no one remembers Zuulaman now because of the part they played in Heckatah鈥檚 schemes.
I liked how this story shows how vicious Saetan could be if pushed. It also showed how he was with his boys when they were young and what a good father he could have been to Daemon and Lucivar, had they not been stolen from him. The take away from Zuulaman鈥on鈥檛 mess with Saetan.
鈽� 鈽嗏湴猸� Kaeleer鈥檚 Heart is in the aftermath of Queen of Darkness. Jaenelle has paid a price to save the blood and the land and the price was high. Only the kindred believed enough to save her. She is weak and healing and Daemon would never press her for anything, he will stand by her through it all, so why does it feel like she is pushing him away.
I really liked how this explored how sometimes when someone has been ill, they are put in a little protective box and it is so hard to see when they are ready to be better. Jaenelle is healing and while weak she is better but the boys of the family aren鈥檛 ready to see it. With a little push from Surreal and Marrian they will try to help Jaenelle out and get her back into fighting and loving form.
Dreams Made Flesh is a compilation of stories told in the world of the Black Jewels. It is four stories of various lengths and I can鈥檛 say that I usually enjoy that since you don鈥檛 get the same depth in a short story but since we have a lot of world building and knowledge of this world it works.
鈽� 鈽嗏湴 Weaver of Dreams is a pretty short story of how the Black Widows and Weavers were gifted their magic from one of Draka鈥檚 daughters. It is a cute story shown from the perspective of a spider and that isn鈥檛 something you read every day. Because it is so short it wasn鈥檛 my favorite of the compilation.
鈽� 鈽嗏湴猸愨湬The Prince of Ebon Rih is my favorite story in this book and the main reason I鈥檇 recommend reading it. It is set before Queen of Darkness, which is great since I was so confused with Lucivar was already married in it and we鈥檇 never read anything about his wife prior to that.
Marian comes from a family that didn鈥檛 value her because she was a hearth witch and not powerfully jeweled. After her father makes an unforgivable bargain, Marian is saved from a horrible fate and ends up in Lucivar鈥檚 household.
鈥淢arian sank down on one of the kitchen chairs and braced her head in her hands. He got mad at her for sweeping up spilled sugar but dragged her outside to throw a skillet at bales of hay. She threw a pot at him and missed, so he was going to teach her how to clobber him with a skillet. Even taking into account that he was an Eyrien male, there was only one explanation for his behavior. The man was insane.鈥�
I loved the story of how Lucivar and Marian became friendly and then more than friendly. They had plenty of things to overcome due to his power being so much greater than hers, his mother鈥檚 interference and Roxy who is a spiteful little twit. But the patience that Lucivar shows to Marian to make her his wife eventually was incredibly tender and sweet.
So happy for his HEA love story.
鈽� 鈽嗏湴猸� Zuulaman explains why even though it might have been easier to kill Lucivar or Daemon, Heckatah wouldn鈥檛 dare. Saetan has been the mentor in these books. He is the quiet patient man with crazy kids and kindred running around everywhere. But once he walked in the land of the living and married the wrong woman, once she tried to play him and an entire people paid for her vicious game. This story shows that even when you thought you hated Heckatah as much as possible, you are wrong and could hate her more. Saetan is a powerful man and no one remembers Zuulaman now because of the part they played in Heckatah鈥檚 schemes.
I liked how this story shows how vicious Saetan could be if pushed. It also showed how he was with his boys when they were young and what a good father he could have been to Daemon and Lucivar, had they not been stolen from him. The take away from Zuulaman鈥on鈥檛 mess with Saetan.
鈽� 鈽嗏湴猸� Kaeleer鈥檚 Heart is in the aftermath of Queen of Darkness. Jaenelle has paid a price to save the blood and the land and the price was high. Only the kindred believed enough to save her. She is weak and healing and Daemon would never press her for anything, he will stand by her through it all, so why does it feel like she is pushing him away.
I really liked how this explored how sometimes when someone has been ill, they are put in a little protective box and it is so hard to see when they are ready to be better. Jaenelle is healing and while weak she is better but the boys of the family aren鈥檛 ready to see it. With a little push from Surreal and Marrian they will try to help Jaenelle out and get her back into fighting and loving form.
April 5, 2022
The illogic of this fantasy world drives me nuts. Supposedly the women are dominant and in charge, but then there are Saetan, Daemon, and Lucivar rampaging about, making all these theoretically powerful women wet themselves from fear. If women actually ruled, there wouldn't be all these snarly alpha males hogging the limelight. It makes me grumpy.
This volume consists of four pieces of short fiction in the Black Jewels world. The first one was almost incomprehensible to me, so there's that. Then each of the remaining three centred around one of the three men mentioned above. Two of them (Lucivar's and Daemon's stories) are basically romances, getting Lucivar married to Marian and repairing Daemon's relationship with Jaenelle (and incidentally marrying them too). Despite all the referencing of Hell, darkness, spiders, venom, etc., they pretty typical romances, complete with jealousy, misunderstandings, and forgiveness culminating in happily ever after endings.
Several of my friends really like a couple of other series that Anne Bishop writes, so I'm hoping to like those better when I get to them. Despite all my eye rolling at the details that distract me in these books, I like them well enough to continue on. However, I completely understand those folks who find them ridiculous, I think I understand why some love them, and I would never critique either position. We like what we like. I probably wouldn't choose to continue if they weren't part of my reading project, but I don't hate them, so I鈥檒l continue onwards.
Book Number 449 of my Science Fiction and Fantasy Reading Project
This volume consists of four pieces of short fiction in the Black Jewels world. The first one was almost incomprehensible to me, so there's that. Then each of the remaining three centred around one of the three men mentioned above. Two of them (Lucivar's and Daemon's stories) are basically romances, getting Lucivar married to Marian and repairing Daemon's relationship with Jaenelle (and incidentally marrying them too). Despite all the referencing of Hell, darkness, spiders, venom, etc., they pretty typical romances, complete with jealousy, misunderstandings, and forgiveness culminating in happily ever after endings.
Several of my friends really like a couple of other series that Anne Bishop writes, so I'm hoping to like those better when I get to them. Despite all my eye rolling at the details that distract me in these books, I like them well enough to continue on. However, I completely understand those folks who find them ridiculous, I think I understand why some love them, and I would never critique either position. We like what we like. I probably wouldn't choose to continue if they weren't part of my reading project, but I don't hate them, so I鈥檒l continue onwards.
Book Number 449 of my Science Fiction and Fantasy Reading Project
February 29, 2020
From the moment I began reading the first book in Anne Bishop's Black Jewel Series I was captivated, moved, and entralled with the story and the characters. Having fallen in love with the dark jewel trilogy I was expecting a lot from this book. AND I got it... The book consists of 4 stories. Usually I am not a big fan of short stories, but "The Prince of Ebon Rih" and "Kaeleer's Heart" are long enough, and detailed enough to be really satisfying. I really liked the way the story of Lucivar and Marian was fleshed out. My only complaint is that I think it would have been even better if Lucivar had had a conversation with Marian's family...
I'm also so glad Anne Bishop added a footnote to the end of "The Queen of Darkness." "Kaeleer's Heart" lets the reader know how Janelle's recovery progressed and what her powers are like with twilight's dawn. It adds a feeling of completeness that I missed with "The Queen of Darkness."
"Zuulaman" is short, but haunting. It adds on to the story of Saetan and Heketah; it doesn't tell us much we didn't already know, but it adds emotion and depth to Saetan's character--and Hekatah's depravity.
I absolutely love the Dark Jewels universe and these stories. The authors style pulls your whole-heartedly into the story and envelops you in the character's world. This book of stories fills in some of missing events between the original three and makes the collection more vibrant and meaningful. An absolute must read if you like the dark jewels universe.
I'm also so glad Anne Bishop added a footnote to the end of "The Queen of Darkness." "Kaeleer's Heart" lets the reader know how Janelle's recovery progressed and what her powers are like with twilight's dawn. It adds a feeling of completeness that I missed with "The Queen of Darkness."
"Zuulaman" is short, but haunting. It adds on to the story of Saetan and Heketah; it doesn't tell us much we didn't already know, but it adds emotion and depth to Saetan's character--and Hekatah's depravity.
I absolutely love the Dark Jewels universe and these stories. The authors style pulls your whole-heartedly into the story and envelops you in the character's world. This book of stories fills in some of missing events between the original three and makes the collection more vibrant and meaningful. An absolute must read if you like the dark jewels universe.
March 4, 2020
There are four short stories in Dreams Made Flesh.
The first story, Weaver of Dreams features the Spider spinning her web and how and who gifted them with magic.
In the second one, The Prince of Ebon Rih, Lucivar is the main character, In this story, we learned how he met and fell in love with Marian, his wife.
The third one, Zuulaman is all about Saetan. Is narrated in the past. Saetan is still married to Hekatah and he has a son with her and another one on the way. In this one, you learn of the power Saetan has and how scheming and evil Heketah really is.
The fourth one, Kaeleer鈥檚 Heart, belongs to Daemon and Jaenelle. This short story happens after the events of the Queen of Darkness. A woman has decided that Daemon must be hers and she would do anything to get him. Mistakenly, she believes Daemon is staying with Jaenelle for duty and not love or attraction. Jaenelle is still recuperating and while weak, she is getting better day by day. She's just having trouble with any of the men around her to understanding that she's ready to
I like the last 3 stories. Weavers of Dreams is too short to offer an opinion.
I love romance, so Marion and Lucivar's love story was good with just the right amount of drama to enjoy it. I got to see another facet of Lucivar. One where he tries to be romantic but at the same time showing Marian how to defend herself instead of recurring to violence.
Zuulaman gave me a better understanding of the power of Saetan. It reinforced the love he had for his family and how when push comes to shove, he'll do whatever is necessary.
Jaenelle and Daemon's story wouldn't be as great without Surreal. She steals most of the scenes.
Overall, I liked it.
Cliffhanger: No
3.75/ 5 Fangs
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November 20, 2018
Dreams Made Flesh is a collection of short stories and novellas set in the world of Anne Bishop's Black Jewel series, the stories add in some extra backstory and also work as an extended epilogue to the original trilogy so I wouldn't recommend reading this book until after Queen of the Darkness. If you enjoyed the first three books then I'm sure you'll love this collection though, it gives so much more insight into some of the character's backstories and I loved getting a chance to spend more time with some of my favourites.
Let's talk about each story individually though to give you an idea what to expect:
Weaver of Dreams:
This is set well before the beginning of the series and gives a bit more insight into the dream weaver spiders. The story is very short and I have to admit I didn't enjoy it as much as the others in this collection but it was interesting to read something from the point of view of a spider.
The Prince of Ebon Rih:
In my opinion it would be worth buying this book for this story alone, I loved Lucivar's character in the original trilogy but even though I was glad that he had found a HEA I was disappointed we didn't get to see it happen for ourselves. This story fits into the timeline during听Queen of the Darkness and lets us see how Lucivar and Marian first met and fell in love. They meet under dark circumstances but their actual romance was really sweet and heartwarming and I loved the way Marian stood up for Lucivar against an unwanted rival.
Zuulaman:
Another fab story this gives us a bit more background into the relationship between Saetan and Hekatah long before Daemon or Lucivar were born. This was pretty heartbreaking and made me love Saetan more than ever even though he takes truly drastic measures to get revenge after something horrendous happens. It never ceases to amaze me how low Hekatah is willing to sink in her quest for power but this shows us exactly why she's so terrified of Saetan throughout the series, he really isn't someone you should mess with!
Kaeleer鈥檚 Heart:
This story is like an extended epilogue to Queen of the Darkness that shows us the fallout from Jaenelle's sacrifice both physically and emotionally. There's no denying what she did saved the world but the aftermath put a lot of strain on the relationship between Jaenelle and Daemon that they now need to work through in order to move forward. I really enjoyed seeing how Jaenelle was affected by what happened and how all of the family reacted to that. I also really liked how this story tied back in with The Prince of Ebon Rih with the reappearance of a certain character who desperately needed to get her comeuppance. I'll never get enough of this world or these characters so was thrilled with this glimpse into their happily ever after.
Let's talk about each story individually though to give you an idea what to expect:
Weaver of Dreams:
This is set well before the beginning of the series and gives a bit more insight into the dream weaver spiders. The story is very short and I have to admit I didn't enjoy it as much as the others in this collection but it was interesting to read something from the point of view of a spider.
The Prince of Ebon Rih:
In my opinion it would be worth buying this book for this story alone, I loved Lucivar's character in the original trilogy but even though I was glad that he had found a HEA I was disappointed we didn't get to see it happen for ourselves. This story fits into the timeline during听Queen of the Darkness and lets us see how Lucivar and Marian first met and fell in love. They meet under dark circumstances but their actual romance was really sweet and heartwarming and I loved the way Marian stood up for Lucivar against an unwanted rival.
Zuulaman:
Another fab story this gives us a bit more background into the relationship between Saetan and Hekatah long before Daemon or Lucivar were born. This was pretty heartbreaking and made me love Saetan more than ever even though he takes truly drastic measures to get revenge after something horrendous happens. It never ceases to amaze me how low Hekatah is willing to sink in her quest for power but this shows us exactly why she's so terrified of Saetan throughout the series, he really isn't someone you should mess with!
Kaeleer鈥檚 Heart:
This story is like an extended epilogue to Queen of the Darkness that shows us the fallout from Jaenelle's sacrifice both physically and emotionally. There's no denying what she did saved the world but the aftermath put a lot of strain on the relationship between Jaenelle and Daemon that they now need to work through in order to move forward. I really enjoyed seeing how Jaenelle was affected by what happened and how all of the family reacted to that. I also really liked how this story tied back in with The Prince of Ebon Rih with the reappearance of a certain character who desperately needed to get her comeuppance. I'll never get enough of this world or these characters so was thrilled with this glimpse into their happily ever after.
March 11, 2020
4,5 stars solely for the novella 鈥淧rince of Ebon Askavi鈥� because that鈥檚 the only one I reread this time鈥� it tells the story of how Lucivar met and fell in love with Marian鈥� once I reread it again at some point, more slowly this time, cause I devoured it way too quickly after having a long break from the last time I did it, I will write a more comprehensive review, but for now, that鈥檚 all I have for you :)
XOXO
A
XOXO
A
November 2, 2010
This book contains 4 short stories set in the world of Anne Bishop's Black Jewels Trilogy and should only be read by those who have read at least the first 3 books. You don't need to read the 4th book as it has nothing to do with the events in this book. **Warning** If you haven't read the first 3 books there could be possible SPOILERS in this review.
The first story in Dreams Made Flesh is called "Weaver of Dreams" and my interpretaion is its about how the dream weaver spiders came to be. Out of all the stories this one shortest and less interesting. A little because it was a tad confusing at what time this occured, before all of the Blood were created or at that start of when Jaenelle (Witch) was made into existence.It was beautifully written with very dark descriptions but I was a tad confused of the timeline.
"The Prince of Ebon Rih", is about how Lucivar and Marianne met, I enjoyed finding out about the progression of this relationship.
"Zuulaman", the third story, for me this was an awesome story, but I am a bit confused as to
why, if Saetan has such power,why he couldnt use it to destroy Dorothea and get his sons back. However he does have an awesome power and I liked reading more about him.
The fourth and last story is "Kaeleers Heart", and is about the events that occured between Jaenelle and Daemon after Book #3 in the trilogy, for those of you who wanted more closure after that book this one ties up a few loose ends. I must confess I am getting quite bored with Jaenelle and Daemons relationship problems. But if you are a big fan of those two you will love this story too.
Bottom line this was a good "fix" for my Anne Bishop addiction but I am wearing thin on the Jaenelle/Daemon relationship. They were more fun when
in the earlier books
The first story in Dreams Made Flesh is called "Weaver of Dreams" and my interpretaion is its about how the dream weaver spiders came to be. Out of all the stories this one shortest and less interesting. A little because it was a tad confusing at what time this occured, before all of the Blood were created or at that start of when Jaenelle (Witch) was made into existence.It was beautifully written with very dark descriptions but I was a tad confused of the timeline.
"The Prince of Ebon Rih", is about how Lucivar and Marianne met, I enjoyed finding out about the progression of this relationship.
"Zuulaman", the third story, for me this was an awesome story, but I am a bit confused as to
why, if Saetan has such power,why he couldnt use it to destroy Dorothea and get his sons back. However he does have an awesome power and I liked reading more about him.
The fourth and last story is "Kaeleers Heart", and is about the events that occured between Jaenelle and Daemon after Book #3 in the trilogy, for those of you who wanted more closure after that book this one ties up a few loose ends. I must confess I am getting quite bored with Jaenelle and Daemons relationship problems. But if you are a big fan of those two you will love this story too.
Bottom line this was a good "fix" for my Anne Bishop addiction but I am wearing thin on the Jaenelle/Daemon relationship. They were more fun when
in the earlier books
December 21, 2021
I have reread this book so many times that spine is more a series of creases than anything else.
Popsugar 2016 Reading Challenge | Task 40: A book guaranteed to bring you joy
Prior to 2016:I loved the story about Marian and Lucivar, it was such a hole in the plot during .
Popsugar 2016 Reading Challenge | Task 40: A book guaranteed to bring you joy
Prior to 2016:I loved the story about Marian and Lucivar, it was such a hole in the plot during .
July 11, 2020
THE PRINCE OF EBON RIH:
Second read on Feb 12, 2018: 5 stars. I reread something I just read because apparently 1) I don鈥檛 have other books to read (lol) and 2) I couldn鈥檛 stop thinking about what a perfect novella this was. Bumping up to 5 stars.
First read on Feb 11, 2019: 4.5 stars. I love this so much. I know the Black Jewels world is problematic but I could read a hundred novellas like this. Lucivar and Marian make my heart melt (the cold feet! The fussing certificate!).
Second read on Feb 12, 2018: 5 stars. I reread something I just read because apparently 1) I don鈥檛 have other books to read (lol) and 2) I couldn鈥檛 stop thinking about what a perfect novella this was. Bumping up to 5 stars.
First read on Feb 11, 2019: 4.5 stars. I love this so much. I know the Black Jewels world is problematic but I could read a hundred novellas like this. Lucivar and Marian make my heart melt (the cold feet! The fussing certificate!).
December 24, 2024
I missed Jaenelle and her circle last book! So it was great to have all of the main characters back here.
So much bleak, but also so much love!
This series is just so phenomenal
5 Stars
So much bleak, but also so much love!
This series is just so phenomenal
5 Stars
January 11, 2022
This series of stories is just the perfect complement to this series. I loved it the first time I read them, but I do remember having a hard time accepting Janelle's change in status the first time. But no on this reread through the series I love where Janelle's at. Being older I understand so much better how she could have wanted to live more of a normal life. But all of these stories just filled in so much background around some of my favorite characters.
Weaver of Dreams
Oh this is just wonderful. I love seeing the origins of the Weaver of Dreams. How the golden spiders gained the powers to weave a tangled web was just so unique and interesting.
The Prince of Ebon Rih
Oh my god, yes! I loved getting to actually see Lucivar and Marian's love story. They had a lot to work through to find each other, but Lucivar's patience was just lovely to watch. Marian is so sweet but with a backbone of steel. I loved seeing her discover her own power and come into her own. She flourished in Lucivar's household and they are just adorable together.
Zuulaman
Saetan, you poor thing. God this one just rips out the heart. Hekatah was always evil, but man her unmitigated horribleness in this one takes the cake. She's just horrendous and Saetan always deserved better. His love for his children is epic. Oh, how I hate her. But I adore him so much.
Kaeleer's Heart
Jaenelle and Daemon! These two...they've been through so much to save the world. I love getting this extra long epilogue as these two learn to be together again. Daemon is so fearful of losing Jaenelle he doesn't recognize that she has truly healed from the damage done during her decent into the abyss. Their reconnection, and Lucivar and Surreal's parts in it, was just fun to see. Of course it wouldn't be a story without some horrible evil bitch wanting what isn't hers. I love this story as it gives closure to Jaenelle and Daemon's story. They're perfect together and deserved to have their happily ever after.
Weaver of Dreams
Oh this is just wonderful. I love seeing the origins of the Weaver of Dreams. How the golden spiders gained the powers to weave a tangled web was just so unique and interesting.
The Prince of Ebon Rih
Oh my god, yes! I loved getting to actually see Lucivar and Marian's love story. They had a lot to work through to find each other, but Lucivar's patience was just lovely to watch. Marian is so sweet but with a backbone of steel. I loved seeing her discover her own power and come into her own. She flourished in Lucivar's household and they are just adorable together.
Zuulaman
Saetan, you poor thing. God this one just rips out the heart. Hekatah was always evil, but man her unmitigated horribleness in this one takes the cake. She's just horrendous and Saetan always deserved better. His love for his children is epic. Oh, how I hate her. But I adore him so much.
Kaeleer's Heart
Jaenelle and Daemon! These two...they've been through so much to save the world. I love getting this extra long epilogue as these two learn to be together again. Daemon is so fearful of losing Jaenelle he doesn't recognize that she has truly healed from the damage done during her decent into the abyss. Their reconnection, and Lucivar and Surreal's parts in it, was just fun to see. Of course it wouldn't be a story without some horrible evil bitch wanting what isn't hers. I love this story as it gives closure to Jaenelle and Daemon's story. They're perfect together and deserved to have their happily ever after.
June 8, 2024
I suggest that you read this book BEFORE you read . It will make the emotional ending of this novel all the more poignant.
The the very least, read the second novella in this book first. It is about Lucivar and how he finds Marian, his simple hearth witch. This is the story that will make a greater impact on what happens near the end of Queen of the Darkness.
The last story in this book should be read AFTER you read Queen of the Darkness. It explains what happened after the events in book 3.
The the very least, read the second novella in this book first. It is about Lucivar and how he finds Marian, his simple hearth witch. This is the story that will make a greater impact on what happens near the end of Queen of the Darkness.
The last story in this book should be read AFTER you read Queen of the Darkness. It explains what happened after the events in book 3.
February 22, 2025
Great continuation of the series. Marian is a very adorable character, and I like her growth into a more assertive woman. Getting to see her and Lucivar's love story was very cute. Luthvian is still awful but I can't help but like her.
This book actually made me like Saetan. The horror he faced at the killing and dismemberment of his son was so deeply sad and it made me finally like his character. Him completely destroying zuulaman from the face of the earth was so horrifying but understandable. Though he definitely killed innocents which is definitely not good. Hekatah is so much worse than I ever thought, mutilating and killing her own baby. I keep forgetting how dark this series is until this stuff happens again.
Though I was kind of annoyed at the misunderstandings between Jaenelle and Daemon, I did like the vulnerability and insecurity Jaenelle showed. I've never liked her character but these human moments make her more likeable.
I love Surreal as always. Though it sucks that her relationship with what's his name, Falonar, didn't work out. Just like in real life too many men don't like assertive independent women like Surreal.
One thing that's bothering me more over the series is how the warlord princes are so naturally violent and how everyone just needs to put up with it because it's "in their nature" Sure, they generally use that power and anger to protect women, but it's too similar to how men defend their poor actions in real life using that same justification. And though I like Daemon, it does get annoying that everyone has to watch out when he gets in sadist mode or else he'll really hurt or kill them. He can so easily get into a volatile killing mood and everyone just to deal with what's basically a yandere flipping out and hurting them. It's ridiculous. The characters, though they're often quite fair, can be very tyrannical sometimes. Always thinking they know best and can do as they please.
And while Daemon loves his friends and families, the extent to which he puts Jaenelle over them grosses me out. When he says she's everything he means it. Even Lucivar is more considerate of others. Daemon killed Lektra's cousin for no reason too. The guy just told a lie for Lektra, and he was murdered for it. That was really shitty of Daemon. And of course, no consequences for him.
Jaenelle's power being limited is conflicting to me. I hate when female characters lose their power or have it reduced. But this one is at least different. The power loss was a necessity to save millions and Jaenelle chooses not to want that excessive power back because of how much trouble it caused her. I still don't like that she's wanting to reduce her power, but it's not the worst way the trope could be done either. At least everyone still looks to her for guidance like they used to.
This book actually made me like Saetan. The horror he faced at the killing and dismemberment of his son was so deeply sad and it made me finally like his character. Him completely destroying zuulaman from the face of the earth was so horrifying but understandable. Though he definitely killed innocents which is definitely not good. Hekatah is so much worse than I ever thought, mutilating and killing her own baby. I keep forgetting how dark this series is until this stuff happens again.
Though I was kind of annoyed at the misunderstandings between Jaenelle and Daemon, I did like the vulnerability and insecurity Jaenelle showed. I've never liked her character but these human moments make her more likeable.
I love Surreal as always. Though it sucks that her relationship with what's his name, Falonar, didn't work out. Just like in real life too many men don't like assertive independent women like Surreal.
One thing that's bothering me more over the series is how the warlord princes are so naturally violent and how everyone just needs to put up with it because it's "in their nature" Sure, they generally use that power and anger to protect women, but it's too similar to how men defend their poor actions in real life using that same justification. And though I like Daemon, it does get annoying that everyone has to watch out when he gets in sadist mode or else he'll really hurt or kill them. He can so easily get into a volatile killing mood and everyone just to deal with what's basically a yandere flipping out and hurting them. It's ridiculous. The characters, though they're often quite fair, can be very tyrannical sometimes. Always thinking they know best and can do as they please.
And while Daemon loves his friends and families, the extent to which he puts Jaenelle over them grosses me out. When he says she's everything he means it. Even Lucivar is more considerate of others. Daemon killed Lektra's cousin for no reason too. The guy just told a lie for Lektra, and he was murdered for it. That was really shitty of Daemon. And of course, no consequences for him.
Jaenelle's power being limited is conflicting to me. I hate when female characters lose their power or have it reduced. But this one is at least different. The power loss was a necessity to save millions and Jaenelle chooses not to want that excessive power back because of how much trouble it caused her. I still don't like that she's wanting to reduce her power, but it's not the worst way the trope could be done either. At least everyone still looks to her for guidance like they used to.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 20, 2020
3.5 Stars
I've enjoyed the dark and intriguing world of The Black Jewels. Dreams Made Flesh consists of four stories that gives more insight and depth to the world building and it's characters.
Weaver of Dreams : This was too short to form any opinion but it was intriguing how much power and dreams were woven into the web for The Witch.
The Prince of Ebon Rih: In Queen of Darkness Lucivar was already married to Marian. This story gives the background of how it happened. It's the best in this collection.
Zuulaman: Saetan has always been portrayed as a loving and caring father figure to Jaenelle and the coven. In Zuulaman we get to see his ruthless side. Saetan has been my favorite character and to see him interacting with Peyton and Mephis, making mistakes and wielding so much power was a pleasure to read. I thought I couldn't hate Heketah more but this proved me wrong.
Kaeleer鈥檚 Heart: The ending of Queen of Darkness had left me unsatisfied. This story picked up right off the events that led to Jaenelle's sacrifice and it's aftermath. It was fun to see Daemon and Jaenelle working on their relationship but after sometimes it got boring. I thought the story was dragged a bit with all unnecessary drama from another witch.
All in all Dreams Made Flesh is an interesting addition to this series.
I've enjoyed the dark and intriguing world of The Black Jewels. Dreams Made Flesh consists of four stories that gives more insight and depth to the world building and it's characters.
Weaver of Dreams : This was too short to form any opinion but it was intriguing how much power and dreams were woven into the web for The Witch.
The Prince of Ebon Rih: In Queen of Darkness Lucivar was already married to Marian. This story gives the background of how it happened. It's the best in this collection.
Zuulaman: Saetan has always been portrayed as a loving and caring father figure to Jaenelle and the coven. In Zuulaman we get to see his ruthless side. Saetan has been my favorite character and to see him interacting with Peyton and Mephis, making mistakes and wielding so much power was a pleasure to read. I thought I couldn't hate Heketah more but this proved me wrong.
Kaeleer鈥檚 Heart: The ending of Queen of Darkness had left me unsatisfied. This story picked up right off the events that led to Jaenelle's sacrifice and it's aftermath. It was fun to see Daemon and Jaenelle working on their relationship but after sometimes it got boring. I thought the story was dragged a bit with all unnecessary drama from another witch.
All in all Dreams Made Flesh is an interesting addition to this series.
November 18, 2017
Good collection of stories! Ties up some loose strings! I just love these characters!
September 9, 2016
I loved the first three books and I loved the characters and I liked the way that arc ended. The trouble with Dreams Made Flesh is that ideally it should have focused on secondary characters, like the other queens instead of sticking with Jaenelle and Daemon. Allow me to explain.
I liked the first story about the creation of the Web of Dreams, it was interesting, like an origin story. Then there was the second story about the courtship of Lucivar and Marian and even that was enjoyable. But in that story, we met Luthvian and Roxie yet again. Luthvian may have redeemed herself at the end of Queen of the Darkness but here she was far from that version of herself. She was hateful and manipulative.
I liked Lucivar and Marian. They were a sweet pair and I liked that Marian wasn't afraid of letting Lucivar know when he was behaving like a neanderthal. For his part, Lucivar tried to be patient and mostly succeeded. And perhaps, most of all I enjoyed their interactions with Jaenelle (the first time she, Marian and Saetan go shopping was hilarious) But then the irritants started piling on. I've already mentioned Luthvian. Then there was Roxie. She is so vile, like a disgusting insect, except even they serve some purpose. She was just vile and I couldn't understand why Luthvian let her stay with her when she knew that she made her son uncomfortable. She knew what Lucivar had gone through in Terielle and she still let Roxie parade around him. Here she was even more outrageous, letting people think that not only was Lucivar sleeping with her but when that didn't work, she planned to accuse him of rape and let him wear the Ring of Obedience. Thankfully that didn't happen thanks to Marian.
I didn't read the story about Hekatah making Saetan's life miserable, I had seen enough of her in the first three books and I had no intention of reading more about her. The final story is about Daemon trying to help Jaenelle after the events of the Queen of the Darkness. She lost her dark Jewels but gained a new one, the Twilight's Dusk. In addition to seeing Daemon try to reach Jaenelle and rekindle their relationship, there was also the additional (and unnecessary plot) of another aristo woman, Lektra trying to lure Daemon to her bed.
She spreads rumors of his infidelity and when that doesn't work, she tries to sabotage the carriage that Daemon and Jaenelle were in and when even that backfires, she decides to insinuate to Daemon that Jaenelle had taken another lover. I mean seriously! Give me a break. Haven't we already dealt with women like that? And of course, once again Roxie was back. Why wasn't she dead? I thought all the Blood who had Dorothea and Hekatah's taint had perished. If anyone in the Dhemlan had their taint, it was Roxie so why was she still alive. So she's also back stirring trouble.
While it was fun seeing more of Jaenelle, Daemon, Lucivar and Surreal, that joy was undermined by the sheer frustration with regard to the plot. I'll admit, I wasn't very worried that the women's hair-brained schemes would work just because by now, the reader has a very clear idea about just how deep Daemon's devotion to Jaenelle is and that he genuinely loves her. Having said that, it was gratifying to see the women get what they deserve. They tangled with the Sadist and had no idea what they were getting themselves into.
The frustration stems from the fact that the plot feels repetitive. We've seen these themes before and not much has changed here. It was engrossing the first time but then it got dragged for three whole books. In Dreams Made Flesh (and in the final story to be precise) the plot just feels old. There was nothing new here, nothing exciting. Which is why I said that it would have been better to focus on secondary characters instead of going back to the original protagonists time and again. Their story concluded and concluded well, let them be. I would have liked to see Karla (one of my favourite characters from the first three books) or Gabrielle or some of the other Queens. But far from focusing on them, they didn't even appear.
I'm going to give these books a break now, if at all, I'll read Tangled Web but not anytime soon. I think I'm done with this universe and I want to leave while I still like the series.
I liked the first story about the creation of the Web of Dreams, it was interesting, like an origin story. Then there was the second story about the courtship of Lucivar and Marian and even that was enjoyable. But in that story, we met Luthvian and Roxie yet again. Luthvian may have redeemed herself at the end of Queen of the Darkness but here she was far from that version of herself. She was hateful and manipulative.
I liked Lucivar and Marian. They were a sweet pair and I liked that Marian wasn't afraid of letting Lucivar know when he was behaving like a neanderthal. For his part, Lucivar tried to be patient and mostly succeeded. And perhaps, most of all I enjoyed their interactions with Jaenelle (the first time she, Marian and Saetan go shopping was hilarious) But then the irritants started piling on. I've already mentioned Luthvian. Then there was Roxie. She is so vile, like a disgusting insect, except even they serve some purpose. She was just vile and I couldn't understand why Luthvian let her stay with her when she knew that she made her son uncomfortable. She knew what Lucivar had gone through in Terielle and she still let Roxie parade around him. Here she was even more outrageous, letting people think that not only was Lucivar sleeping with her but when that didn't work, she planned to accuse him of rape and let him wear the Ring of Obedience. Thankfully that didn't happen thanks to Marian.
I didn't read the story about Hekatah making Saetan's life miserable, I had seen enough of her in the first three books and I had no intention of reading more about her. The final story is about Daemon trying to help Jaenelle after the events of the Queen of the Darkness. She lost her dark Jewels but gained a new one, the Twilight's Dusk. In addition to seeing Daemon try to reach Jaenelle and rekindle their relationship, there was also the additional (and unnecessary plot) of another aristo woman, Lektra trying to lure Daemon to her bed.
She spreads rumors of his infidelity and when that doesn't work, she tries to sabotage the carriage that Daemon and Jaenelle were in and when even that backfires, she decides to insinuate to Daemon that Jaenelle had taken another lover. I mean seriously! Give me a break. Haven't we already dealt with women like that? And of course, once again Roxie was back. Why wasn't she dead? I thought all the Blood who had Dorothea and Hekatah's taint had perished. If anyone in the Dhemlan had their taint, it was Roxie so why was she still alive. So she's also back stirring trouble.
While it was fun seeing more of Jaenelle, Daemon, Lucivar and Surreal, that joy was undermined by the sheer frustration with regard to the plot. I'll admit, I wasn't very worried that the women's hair-brained schemes would work just because by now, the reader has a very clear idea about just how deep Daemon's devotion to Jaenelle is and that he genuinely loves her. Having said that, it was gratifying to see the women get what they deserve. They tangled with the Sadist and had no idea what they were getting themselves into.
The frustration stems from the fact that the plot feels repetitive. We've seen these themes before and not much has changed here. It was engrossing the first time but then it got dragged for three whole books. In Dreams Made Flesh (and in the final story to be precise) the plot just feels old. There was nothing new here, nothing exciting. Which is why I said that it would have been better to focus on secondary characters instead of going back to the original protagonists time and again. Their story concluded and concluded well, let them be. I would have liked to see Karla (one of my favourite characters from the first three books) or Gabrielle or some of the other Queens. But far from focusing on them, they didn't even appear.
I'm going to give these books a break now, if at all, I'll read Tangled Web but not anytime soon. I think I'm done with this universe and I want to leave while I still like the series.
February 26, 2023
Est-ce que je vais vraiment lire les 12 l脿 ? Faut m'arr锚ter
October 19, 2024
Book 5 Dreams Made Flesh
Love anything Ann bishop. It's an awesome book but more a collection of short story鈥檚. Even if I think I read them in wrong order it was still mind blowing.
1st Story Weaver of Dreams
This is the beginning of how the Blood were made. The only female dragon left in world with power decides to fly over the world and gift people with the power to protect the earth and people less powerful then them.
The main focus is how the Dragon gifted the Weaver of Dreams The spiders power of the jewels and eventually help Jaenelle Weaver Tangled web.
2nd Story The Prince of Ebon Rih
Jaenelle rescued Lucivar from mines and near death, healed him also became Jaenelle鈥檚 First Escort when she became Queen and set up the dark court.
Jaenelle gifts Ebon Rih to Lucivar to rule and protect.
This story is after the third book but before Daemon comes back from Twisted Kingdom. Lucivar is over run with helpful females and Jaenelle recommends a housekeeper which Jaenelle finds and Lucivar finds himself falling in love with her.
I absolutely love this story and re-read often.
3rd Story Zuulaman
This is prequel to all previous books when Saetan was married to Heketah and a baby was born but then killed. This book is about the strength of Saetan power and what he would do to if his children were killed.
Not my favourite especially with how upsetting the child鈥檚 death is but explains a lot more especially as Lucivar ask Saetan why he did try and get Daemon and Lucivar back once they were in Heketah and Dorothea control.
4th Story Kaeleer鈥檚 Heart
This book takes place after Jaenelle and Daemon defeat Dorothea/Hekatah and Daemon breaks his friendship with Lucivar and Covent for keeping the secrets Jaenelle asked him too.
Jaenelle has now returned from healing web but now before it was fully finished leaving her fragile and easily bruised by Daemon when he moves her.
For the secrets Daemon demanded a wedding ring to become her husband and not consort but after Jaenelle鈥檚 recovery Daemon and Jaenell鈥檚 relationship struggles. As neither properly talk to each other and assume neither wants to be held to there past obligations.
I love that Jaenelle鈥檚 new jewels are a big part of this book and a lot of explained why she now longer where Ebony-grey jewels.
Just gutted it鈥檚 not a full novel but a absolute must read for Black Jewel fans.
Love anything Ann bishop. It's an awesome book but more a collection of short story鈥檚. Even if I think I read them in wrong order it was still mind blowing.
1st Story Weaver of Dreams
This is the beginning of how the Blood were made. The only female dragon left in world with power decides to fly over the world and gift people with the power to protect the earth and people less powerful then them.
The main focus is how the Dragon gifted the Weaver of Dreams The spiders power of the jewels and eventually help Jaenelle Weaver Tangled web.
2nd Story The Prince of Ebon Rih
Jaenelle rescued Lucivar from mines and near death, healed him also became Jaenelle鈥檚 First Escort when she became Queen and set up the dark court.
Jaenelle gifts Ebon Rih to Lucivar to rule and protect.
This story is after the third book but before Daemon comes back from Twisted Kingdom. Lucivar is over run with helpful females and Jaenelle recommends a housekeeper which Jaenelle finds and Lucivar finds himself falling in love with her.
I absolutely love this story and re-read often.
3rd Story Zuulaman
This is prequel to all previous books when Saetan was married to Heketah and a baby was born but then killed. This book is about the strength of Saetan power and what he would do to if his children were killed.
Not my favourite especially with how upsetting the child鈥檚 death is but explains a lot more especially as Lucivar ask Saetan why he did try and get Daemon and Lucivar back once they were in Heketah and Dorothea control.
4th Story Kaeleer鈥檚 Heart
This book takes place after Jaenelle and Daemon defeat Dorothea/Hekatah and Daemon breaks his friendship with Lucivar and Covent for keeping the secrets Jaenelle asked him too.
Jaenelle has now returned from healing web but now before it was fully finished leaving her fragile and easily bruised by Daemon when he moves her.
For the secrets Daemon demanded a wedding ring to become her husband and not consort but after Jaenelle鈥檚 recovery Daemon and Jaenell鈥檚 relationship struggles. As neither properly talk to each other and assume neither wants to be held to there past obligations.
I love that Jaenelle鈥檚 new jewels are a big part of this book and a lot of explained why she now longer where Ebony-grey jewels.
Just gutted it鈥檚 not a full novel but a absolute must read for Black Jewel fans.
August 14, 2010
The short stories in this book are best read only if you read the original Black Jewels Trilogy as they fill in some of the blanks. I must say these stories are a lot less gritty and dark than the trilogy (except for one), but I found three of them a joy to read and was happy to find out more about some of the things that were only hinted at in the trilogy. Bishop's writing is excellent and rich as always.
Here's an overview of the stories:
Weaver of Dreams
This story is about the creation of the Jewels and although I loved the richly written text I found the story a bit boring I must confess.
The Prince of Ebon Rih
This story is about how Lucivar finds love.
I really like this one and was glad it was included as I thought Lucivar's marriage was glossed over very hastily in the Trilogy.
Zuulaman
This is the only dark and disturbing story of the four, but I loved it. It gives more insight in Saetan and why he became who and what he is.
Kaeleer's Heart
This is the story about what happens just after the end of the original Trilogy and centers on Jaenelle and Daemon. A great read.
Here's an overview of the stories:
Weaver of Dreams
This story is about the creation of the Jewels and although I loved the richly written text I found the story a bit boring I must confess.
The Prince of Ebon Rih
This story is about how Lucivar finds love.
I really like this one and was glad it was included as I thought Lucivar's marriage was glossed over very hastily in the Trilogy.
Zuulaman
This is the only dark and disturbing story of the four, but I loved it. It gives more insight in Saetan and why he became who and what he is.
Kaeleer's Heart
This is the story about what happens just after the end of the original Trilogy and centers on Jaenelle and Daemon. A great read.
October 26, 2010
And I thought "Queen of The Darkness" was a terrific ending...this book attach all the loose strings on the past books, and in what way!!!
We got to know more about Lucivar and Marian (a delightful and exciting story) and of course, what happened with Daemon and Jaenelle. I mean--sigh--their story is one of the most romantic and heartmelting stories I've ever seen. If you go and look "unconditional love" in a dictionary, their names would be placed next--in capital letters. Just breathtaking...
We got to know more about Lucivar and Marian (a delightful and exciting story) and of course, what happened with Daemon and Jaenelle. I mean--sigh--their story is one of the most romantic and heartmelting stories I've ever seen. If you go and look "unconditional love" in a dictionary, their names would be placed next--in capital letters. Just breathtaking...
July 24, 2012
Holy crap, I love this woman! (author) I love her people, i love her world, I love her story. I want to be a part of it. The characters are worth their weight in gold. I never want this to end, never! This book was actually four short stories. Loved every one of them. I'm not a lover of novellas, but I loved these.is there a limit on how many times I can say love?
August 13, 2024
鈥� 10/06/14 | (kindle)
鈥� 23/07/23
鈥� 27/07/24
-鈥�-鈥�-鈥�-鈥�-鈥�-鈥�-鈥�-鈥�-鈥�-鈥�-
Weaver of Dreams 2%
Prince of Ebon Rih 4%
Zuulaman 52%
Kaeleer's Heart 61%
鈥� 23/07/23
鈥� 27/07/24
-鈥�-鈥�-鈥�-鈥�-鈥�-鈥�-鈥�-鈥�-鈥�-鈥�-
Weaver of Dreams 2%
Prince of Ebon Rih 4%
Zuulaman 52%
Kaeleer's Heart 61%
June 25, 2019
Always fun to play again in the world of the Blood.
September 3, 2017
Now all I want to do is reread Daughter of the Blood.
July 13, 2017
Est谩 a ser um ver茫o excelente, este em que volto a mergulhar neste mundo negro e fant谩stico em cujo universo se passa a s茅rie Joias Negras. De tal modo que considero, de bom grado, voltar a ler os tr锚s volumes principais, logo que terminem as f茅rias e que acabe de ler estes volumes independentes entre si mas que est茫o interligados. Como uma teia de sonhos, constru铆da pela feiticeira Anne Bishop para gaudio dos seus f茫s 鈥� onde me incluo.
Dividido em quatro hist贸rias, este volume responde a algumas quest玫es鈥� Ficamos a conhecer a hist贸ria de Lucivar e Marian, porque 茅 que Zuulaman desapareceu e porque 茅 que Saetan o fez. E ficamos, por fim, a saber, quem 茅 o cora莽茫o de Kaeleer e o que significa a joia que Jaenelle passou a usar.
Cativante desde as primeiras p谩ginas, este livro fez-me passar alguns bocados mais constrangedores nos transportes p煤blicos ou mesmo enquanto almo莽ava. E tudo porque algumas passagens me deixaram a rir ou a sorrir. S茫o 498 p谩ginas de puro deleite, de reencontro com velhos amigos e que me souberam a muito pouco (o que, ali谩s, 茅 um problema recorrente nos livros de Anne Bishop. Sabem-me sempre a pouco).
Dividido em quatro hist贸rias, este volume responde a algumas quest玫es鈥� Ficamos a conhecer a hist贸ria de Lucivar e Marian, porque 茅 que Zuulaman desapareceu e porque 茅 que Saetan o fez. E ficamos, por fim, a saber, quem 茅 o cora莽茫o de Kaeleer e o que significa a joia que Jaenelle passou a usar.
Cativante desde as primeiras p谩ginas, este livro fez-me passar alguns bocados mais constrangedores nos transportes p煤blicos ou mesmo enquanto almo莽ava. E tudo porque algumas passagens me deixaram a rir ou a sorrir. S茫o 498 p谩ginas de puro deleite, de reencontro com velhos amigos e que me souberam a muito pouco (o que, ali谩s, 茅 um problema recorrente nos livros de Anne Bishop. Sabem-me sempre a pouco).
January 9, 2019
This anthology contains four stories set in the Black Jewels universe.
Weaver of Dreams tells how spiders learned from a dying dragon how to weave webs that can hold or create lives.
The Prince of Ebon Rih takes place after the events of Heir to the Shadows and tells the story of Lucivar's courtship of Marian.
Zuulaman tells a story from Saetan's past when he was married to Hekatah and the Warlord Prince of Dhemlan. A country called Zuulaman tries to get the best of his country, aided by the 100 families of Hyall and Hekatah, and Saetan shows them just what a black-jeweled warlord prince can do.
Kaeleer's Heart tells what happens after the events of Queen of the Darkness when Jaenelle heals quite changed and Daemon wonders if she doesn't love him anymore. Their relationship is complicated by someone who wants to ruin Daemon's reputation and wreck his relationship with Jaenelle so that he will turn to her. He shows everyone why he was nicknamed the Sadist while he was a pleasure slave in Terreille.
All of these stories were great at providing more about the fascinating Black Jewels world. The Prince of Ebon Rih and Kaeleer's Heart were also wonderful romances.
Weaver of Dreams tells how spiders learned from a dying dragon how to weave webs that can hold or create lives.
The Prince of Ebon Rih takes place after the events of Heir to the Shadows and tells the story of Lucivar's courtship of Marian.
Zuulaman tells a story from Saetan's past when he was married to Hekatah and the Warlord Prince of Dhemlan. A country called Zuulaman tries to get the best of his country, aided by the 100 families of Hyall and Hekatah, and Saetan shows them just what a black-jeweled warlord prince can do.
Kaeleer's Heart tells what happens after the events of Queen of the Darkness when Jaenelle heals quite changed and Daemon wonders if she doesn't love him anymore. Their relationship is complicated by someone who wants to ruin Daemon's reputation and wreck his relationship with Jaenelle so that he will turn to her. He shows everyone why he was nicknamed the Sadist while he was a pleasure slave in Terreille.
All of these stories were great at providing more about the fascinating Black Jewels world. The Prince of Ebon Rih and Kaeleer's Heart were also wonderful romances.
March 26, 2020
I'm not a big fan of short stories. This book is different, though, because I already had a connection with the characters and the world because I'd already read the prior books.
My most favorite part was that I finally got to see how Lucivar got married. It was such a shock to find him suddenly married in the third book in the series. Frankly, I felt a bit ripped off.
Because of my dislike of short stories, I never bothered to read this book before. I'm glad that social distancing meant I got a chance to read it and finally have some answers.
My most favorite part was that I finally got to see how Lucivar got married. It was such a shock to find him suddenly married in the third book in the series. Frankly, I felt a bit ripped off.
Because of my dislike of short stories, I never bothered to read this book before. I'm glad that social distancing meant I got a chance to read it and finally have some answers.
May 21, 2023
I鈥檓 conflicted about this one because it was so satisfying to get the epilogue of sorts as well as Lucivar and Marian鈥檚 story, so many details filled in and questions answered, but I hate one of the main tropes in this book (I won鈥檛 say which one bc I don鈥檛 want to spoil it). Also the side story of Saetan felt odd, out of character, and unnecessary. It kind of ruined his character imo. Like why did she feel the need to add that?? But again, Lucivar and Marian鈥檚 story was so charming. And we got to see events after the war and I enjoyed reading it. Again just鈥� conflicted.
May 8, 2024
{3.5 rounded up} A good collection of 4 stories filling in some of the blanks in both the recent and distance past as well as some advancing the main arc-plot in the aftermath of the main series. On the one hand the series as a whole is pretty dark with various trigger warnings, while using roles' reversals to tackle some of the more serious topics, but on the other hand there are some lighter quirky moments sprinkled around to make the reader smile / blush.
February 13, 2020
Five stars overall; however, will rank the stories too!
Mother night! These short stories were fantastic. Anne Bishop does a great job expanding the black jeweled world.
Full review @
Mother night! These short stories were fantastic. Anne Bishop does a great job expanding the black jeweled world.
Full review @
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