The Shadow Queen

The Shadow Queen (World of Hetar) You can't go wrong with Bertrice Small!! You either LOVE her books or can't stand them cause they're too "graphic" for you. I personally LOVE her writing & have EVERY ONE of her books to date.

With the death of her beloved husband Magnus Hauk, Dominus of Terah, Lara's life journey will begin anew. Because of her son Prince Taj's tender age, he'll need guidance in the decisions he makes for the people of Terah therefore as part of Magus Hauk's last wishes, Lara takes on the role of Shadow Queen. She'll advise her son on his duties but like all children, Taj believes he knows best so her position won't be an easy one. Lara needs a support system of her own and fortunately there's a man who's always been willing to provide a helping hand - and so much more. Prince Kaliq of the Shadows is in love with Lara but he's always understood that she has a destiny to fulfill. He's a powerful ally and she'll certainly need his support now that her life has become so overwhelming. Prince Kaliq understands Lara's concerns and her fears but more importantly he's willing to put his own needs second while helping her get her children's situations handled. Immediately thrust into the role of Shadow Queen following the accidental death of Magnus Hauk, Lara has very little time to mourn his passing. There are many enemies who'd like nothing more than to use this opportunity to get a foothold in Terah and they'll use any means available to do so. Greed brings out the worst in some family members but Lara's quick to devise a solution to that situation. Some of the other problems that quickly arise she won't be able to fix - including her daughter Zagiri's decision to disobey her mother and marry Jonah, Lord High Ruler of Hetar. Her youngest daughter Marzina is sent to train with Lara's mother as she's the only child who has faerie traits. Lara's idealistic life is changing drastically. Fortunately she's strong enough to accept the changes and carry on, however being only half faerie, her human side aches for her children's fates - as well as her beloved husband. Whether historical, contemporary, or fantasy, Bertrice Small is a talented author who's tales engage all a reader's emotions. I have to confess I cried through the first chapter of THE SHADOW QUEEN. Magnus Hauk was such a beloved character it broke my heart that he passes away under such devastating circumstances. On the other hand his death and how Lara deals with everything that happens afterwards displays the sheer strength she possesses. As mothers women often struggle with their children's choices in life and Lara's no different in that factor but she faces more challenges than most women. What I especially loved about this story is the gentle and honest way Prince Kaliq cares for Lara. By no means is their relationship a typical romance but it's obvious that the love is there and no matter what life throws at them it always will be. All of Ms. Small's books have not only found a place on my keeper shelves, they're ones I return to time and again whenever I need a book that I know will leave me completely satisfied. Chrissy Dionne (courtesy of Romance Junkies)

I have been reading Ms. Small's work for over 30 years.....is that possible? Time flies when you are reading. I have read every one of her books and enjoyed them all but I must say that this magical series is my favorite....sorry Skye! I, like the two ladies before me, read this book in about 3 days and couldn't put it down. I anxiously await the next installment of this charming tale.

Thank Goodness this awesome novel arrived before we got 10 inches of snow!! I read all weekend and couldn't put it down until I was done. For this old and loyal fan, this newest installment of the Hetar series is awesome. I love the drama, plot twists, continuing story lines, lovely and not-so-lovely characters and, of course, the romance!! I was sad that Magnus died at the beginning, but that's the way the world is, ours and Hetar. As always, I can't wait for the next book in this series and I eagerly await 'The Border Lord and The Lady' in October. Thanks again, Bertrice!!