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The Lochlann Deception #2
Fragile Oath
She sacrificed herself to save him. He’ll sacrifice everything to get her back.
Davin and Galina's story will wrap up in book two of The Lochlann Deception Duology, perfect for fans of Danielle Jensen, Elise Kova, and Sarah J Maas.
Davin and Galina's story will wrap up in book two of The Lochlann Deception Duology, perfect for fans of Danielle Jensen, Elise Kova, and Sarah J Maas.
406 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 24, 2023
192 people are currently reading
881 people want to read
About the author
Robin D. Mahle
36 books1,173 followersRobin D. Mahle started out as a pen name I shared with my husband for The World Apart Series, but since then, I've absconded with it to delve into the wonderful world of fairy tale retellings and fantasy romances with my partner in crime, Elle Madison.
When I'm not writing, you can find me spending time with my seven hundred cats and drinking wine by the barrel.
When I'm not writing, you can find me spending time with my seven hundred cats and drinking wine by the barrel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 150 reviews
January 8, 2025
Excellent conclusion to the series - both character and plot-wise.
I absolutely loved how both Davin and Galina made some changes and compromised to become better people and better for each other.
The plot twist was a great one as well, I never saw it coming! I also enjoyed how certain plot points weren't unnecessarily dragged, but instead got resolved and the plot moved on to something else. It made sense and it made reading it a lot more enjoyable.
I absolutely loved how both Davin and Galina made some changes and compromised to become better people and better for each other.
The plot twist was a great one as well, I never saw it coming! I also enjoyed how certain plot points weren't unnecessarily dragged, but instead got resolved and the plot moved on to something else. It made sense and it made reading it a lot more enjoyable.
February 22, 2024
I love these characters and this world
November 24, 2023
Gah! This was so good! I was lucky to be able to read this book as an ARC, and it did not disappoint! I devoured this one in less than a day!
This was the perfect conclusion to Davin and Galina's story and the perfect addition to the Lochlann stories. I am really hoping that we will keep getting more of this world and these characters because they are always flawlessly done! I will admit that I was a bit uninformed going into this one and didn't realize that this series would be a duology and not be longer, but it all worked out!
I grew to love Galina much more in this book! She annoyed me at the start for the same reasons as in the first book, but it was understandable. We knew why she was doing what she was doing... but I just didn't agree with her doing it. And Davin was perfection as usual. This man is charming and smart and kind and protective and witty! Everything we love in a man! Their journey was so well executed, and their ups and downs were relatable and realistic. I enjoyed every bit of their journey!
I do think that the ending felt a little bit rushed and pulled together almost too quickly, but everything made sense. All of the clues added up. The plot lines all seemed to close. I do wish we had gotten a little bit more of an ending, but it really did not detract from the story in my eyes because we knew the bad guys were caught and the couple was ending up together. I think one thing that would have made it feel more final to me was if we saw more of them taking down the rebellion. More than just catching The Viper, but something telling us or showing us that they were able to clear out the soldiers working against them and quell the masses a bit. But I will also say that the fact that this isn't touched upon at the end, as well as the multiple mentions of different factions of rebels throughout the books, gives me hope that there will be more books in the Lochlann series!
Rating: 4.5⭐️
This was the perfect conclusion to Davin and Galina's story and the perfect addition to the Lochlann stories. I am really hoping that we will keep getting more of this world and these characters because they are always flawlessly done! I will admit that I was a bit uninformed going into this one and didn't realize that this series would be a duology and not be longer, but it all worked out!
I grew to love Galina much more in this book! She annoyed me at the start for the same reasons as in the first book, but it was understandable. We knew why she was doing what she was doing... but I just didn't agree with her doing it. And Davin was perfection as usual. This man is charming and smart and kind and protective and witty! Everything we love in a man! Their journey was so well executed, and their ups and downs were relatable and realistic. I enjoyed every bit of their journey!
I do think that the ending felt a little bit rushed and pulled together almost too quickly, but everything made sense. All of the clues added up. The plot lines all seemed to close. I do wish we had gotten a little bit more of an ending, but it really did not detract from the story in my eyes because we knew the bad guys were caught and the couple was ending up together. I think one thing that would have made it feel more final to me was if we saw more of them taking down the rebellion. More than just catching The Viper, but something telling us or showing us that they were able to clear out the soldiers working against them and quell the masses a bit. But I will also say that the fact that this isn't touched upon at the end, as well as the multiple mentions of different factions of rebels throughout the books, gives me hope that there will be more books in the Lochlann series!
Rating: 4.5⭐️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 12, 2023
What a fantastic conclusion to The Lochlann Deception duology!! Twists and turns abound! Love a knight in shining armor! We get to see some beloved Lochlann characters!! 😍 Just a fabulous tale by the dynamic duo affectionately known as ElBin.
💕 Romantic Content: Steamy kisses leading up to Fade to black
⚠️ CW: Mentions of domestic violence (not between the main couple)
🗨 Some Quotes:
Something dark unfurled inside of me, clawing at my insides and threatening to burst through my skin. Perhaps I was capable of murder, after all.
Perhaps it wouldn’t take very much at all to push me over that edge.
Davin was here. He had come for me.
P.S. Interestingly enough, Socairan law dictates that you are no longer considered married if your spouse dies.
P.P.S. I’m told that the elbow is one of the most painful places to be stabbed.
💕 Romantic Content: Steamy kisses leading up to Fade to black
⚠️ CW: Mentions of domestic violence (not between the main couple)
🗨 Some Quotes:
Something dark unfurled inside of me, clawing at my insides and threatening to burst through my skin. Perhaps I was capable of murder, after all.
Perhaps it wouldn’t take very much at all to push me over that edge.
Davin was here. He had come for me.
P.S. Interestingly enough, Socairan law dictates that you are no longer considered married if your spouse dies.
P.P.S. I’m told that the elbow is one of the most painful places to be stabbed.
November 28, 2023
Started this and basically never stopped. I love this world so much! I really loved the relationship development between Davin and Galina. Honestly, I did not see the big reveal coming. This world is honestly one of the best. I’m really happy with how Davin and Galinas story ended. Very well written. One of my favorite worlds!
December 3, 2023
I loved the first book in this series and this was a good conclusion!
The very beginning and the very end felt rushed. The villain of the start and the villain of the end were dealt with too quickly and I wish there was a bit more drama.
I love Galina and I feel like people never really acknowledged all she went through (Not just the abuse but the whole purity culture up bringing). Jocelyn was the most understanding and I LOVE that the MIL was her biggest supporter.
Please let the next book in this series be about Avani - she needs a second chance at love!!
The very beginning and the very end felt rushed. The villain of the start and the villain of the end were dealt with too quickly and I wish there was a bit more drama.
I love Galina and I feel like people never really acknowledged all she went through (Not just the abuse but the whole purity culture up bringing). Jocelyn was the most understanding and I LOVE that the MIL was her biggest supporter.
Please let the next book in this series be about Avani - she needs a second chance at love!!
April 3, 2024
2.5 Stars- I disliked the main character so much and the book felt disjointed to me. I think this duet could have been one 500 page book if we cut out the unnecessary bit of her being taken by her former fiancée only to then come right back to Lochlan.
I did like how the authors wrote their spicy scenes and I’m a clothing girl so I loved the descriptions of all the clothes and jewelry.
I did like how the authors wrote their spicy scenes and I’m a clothing girl so I loved the descriptions of all the clothes and jewelry.
November 30, 2023
I wish I could kiss whoever recommended these two authors to me. I love everything I’ve read by them and this book is no exception! They do such a great job story telling and I love all the individual stories so much!!!!
July 23, 2024
4 stars I love the Lochlann universe and I am so sad there are no more books left to read from this world.
Fragile Oath was the perfect wrap up to this duology. There was scandal, kidnapping, rebellion and a beautiful romance between our two main characters.
Fragile Oath was the perfect wrap up to this duology. There was scandal, kidnapping, rebellion and a beautiful romance between our two main characters.
December 2, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
I cannot get over that reveal! I flew through this book in less than a day! I love Davin & Galina’s story so much 🩶 The ending tied together so wonderfully with the clues adding up. I cannot wait to read more by these authors!!!
I cannot get over that reveal! I flew through this book in less than a day! I love Davin & Galina’s story so much 🩶 The ending tied together so wonderfully with the clues adding up. I cannot wait to read more by these authors!!!
December 11, 2023
I loved this conclusion to Davin and Galina's story! It was a real will they won't they, but the character growth through the book felt genuine and true to their character.
This book almost felt like it could have been split into two parts, the cliffhanger from the first book takes time to be resolved, and is almost a whole story on it's own. Once this has been dealt with, we come back to where the story was left before that interruption, and the main plot has to be resolved, as well as the relationship between the main characters. This sub-plot did serve to move the story along, and really fleshed out the character's personalities and helped them develop their relationship. It was quite dramatic and felt like a race against the clock, so the pacing of the book was quite fast and slow, fast and slow, but I really enjoyed it. It felt like you had some time to let the characters settle before another bomb was dropped on them.
The main "villain" reveal kept me on my toes throughout the whole book, I kept going back and forth and think I suspected everyone at some point - at once stage I had convinced myself Galina was the villain! The whole reveal was so well done, so that you were realising what was happening along with the characters, which I loved. I'm not always a fan of knowing the truth before the characters work it out themselves, and this reveal was so well-timed.
If you enjoy a low spice fantasy romance, I would definitely recommend this series, as well as Mahle and Madison's other books in the Lochlann realm.
This book almost felt like it could have been split into two parts, the cliffhanger from the first book takes time to be resolved, and is almost a whole story on it's own. Once this has been dealt with, we come back to where the story was left before that interruption, and the main plot has to be resolved, as well as the relationship between the main characters. This sub-plot did serve to move the story along, and really fleshed out the character's personalities and helped them develop their relationship. It was quite dramatic and felt like a race against the clock, so the pacing of the book was quite fast and slow, fast and slow, but I really enjoyed it. It felt like you had some time to let the characters settle before another bomb was dropped on them.
The main "villain" reveal kept me on my toes throughout the whole book, I kept going back and forth and think I suspected everyone at some point - at once stage I had convinced myself Galina was the villain! The whole reveal was so well done, so that you were realising what was happening along with the characters, which I loved. I'm not always a fan of knowing the truth before the characters work it out themselves, and this reveal was so well-timed.
If you enjoy a low spice fantasy romance, I would definitely recommend this series, as well as Mahle and Madison's other books in the Lochlann realm.
November 23, 2023
A worthy conclusion to this duology. Davin has grown so much as a person since Scarlet Princess and Galina is a refreshingly different kind of strong.
Highly recommended.
Highly recommended.
December 19, 2024
Yes, yes I'm really following the first book (4-star) with a 1-star review.
I know the author likes to do the whole miscommunication, not-talking trope (annoying) but THIS ONE IS UTTERLY RIDICULOUS (unforgivably so).
Lina leaves a note to cut Davin to pieces in an effort to keep him from following her. But he does anyway. And when he shows up? She decides keeping up the charade that she left him willingly is a better idea than begging him to understand because her family and his is in danger if he doesn't leave right now and pretend he never caught up to them????
I flipped ahead to see if she does actually convince him (she does) so the rest here on out is going to be: angst, angst, angst, he finds out it was a ruse anyway, drama wherein he kills Alexei at some (along with he's probably The Viper or Lina's clan leader is), finishing with Davin finally getting the wedding of his dreams.
This could have been a singular book without so much freaking back and forth and I'm so pissed that it wasn't.
I know the author likes to do the whole miscommunication, not-talking trope (annoying) but THIS ONE IS UTTERLY RIDICULOUS (unforgivably so).
Lina leaves a note to cut Davin to pieces in an effort to keep him from following her. But he does anyway. And when he shows up? She decides keeping up the charade that she left him willingly is a better idea than begging him to understand because her family and his is in danger if he doesn't leave right now and pretend he never caught up to them????
I flipped ahead to see if she does actually convince him (she does) so the rest here on out is going to be: angst, angst, angst, he finds out it was a ruse anyway, drama wherein he kills Alexei at some (along with he's probably The Viper or Lina's clan leader is), finishing with Davin finally getting the wedding of his dreams.
This could have been a singular book without so much freaking back and forth and I'm so pissed that it wasn't.
January 19, 2024
4.25
This book was pretty good. It slowed down in the middle, but then picked right back up. I would recommend it. It’s pretty good for a book two
This book was pretty good. It slowed down in the middle, but then picked right back up. I would recommend it. It’s pretty good for a book two
December 20, 2023
UGH. I am so annoyed. There were so many times I almost DNF. I kept going for Rowan’s sake and while there WERE parts of this book that DID help with overall character development of both Davin and Gavina, overall it was still one big mess.
I know she has trauma but UGH. It just wasn’t handled well. The BEST scene was with her and Gwyn when she was crying … I needed more vulnerability and not just in her head. I needed ACTUAL conversations!!!! I was so frustrated with her in almost every scene. And then I feel like we only skimmed the surface of what Davin was going through (how everyone was leaving him…) - I wanted DEEPER convo with him. Gavina never once acknowledged the part she played in him feeling that way. She was constantly saying how brave she wanted to be (like the other women in his family) yet her actions never showed that. She could have been brave with her EMOTIONS yet she never was. Even in the end when she started sharing more truths… it felt like a little too late. Or maybe I just needed to read a better convo of her explaining / apologizing to him and THEN sharing her truths! Again, their communication as a couple was one of the WORST I have ever read. 😫🫠
I also think I am annoyed with yet another series in this world that has political drama w/ the rebels. Are these people really just terrible leaders?! Why do we have so much of the SAME drama happening in the country?!
All in all, it had potential but the lack of communicating between the two of them about literally EVERYTHING had me doubting their love. I honestly loved Gwyn the most in all this and now I need her and Gal to have a story.
I know she has trauma but UGH. It just wasn’t handled well. The BEST scene was with her and Gwyn when she was crying … I needed more vulnerability and not just in her head. I needed ACTUAL conversations!!!! I was so frustrated with her in almost every scene. And then I feel like we only skimmed the surface of what Davin was going through (how everyone was leaving him…) - I wanted DEEPER convo with him. Gavina never once acknowledged the part she played in him feeling that way. She was constantly saying how brave she wanted to be (like the other women in his family) yet her actions never showed that. She could have been brave with her EMOTIONS yet she never was. Even in the end when she started sharing more truths… it felt like a little too late. Or maybe I just needed to read a better convo of her explaining / apologizing to him and THEN sharing her truths! Again, their communication as a couple was one of the WORST I have ever read. 😫🫠
I also think I am annoyed with yet another series in this world that has political drama w/ the rebels. Are these people really just terrible leaders?! Why do we have so much of the SAME drama happening in the country?!
All in all, it had potential but the lack of communicating between the two of them about literally EVERYTHING had me doubting their love. I honestly loved Gwyn the most in all this and now I need her and Gal to have a story.
November 9, 2024
Fragile Oath, the second book in The Lochlann Deception duology, wraps up Davin and Galina’s story with a powerful focus on trust and second-chance love. The authors build a rich fantasy world filled with engaging politics and complex characters, making it easy to dive right into the drama. It’s an emotional, immersive read, and I’m excited to explore more of their books!
November 25, 2023
You can find this review of Fragile Oath on my blog, Heart’s Content!
**Received an Advanced Reader’s Copy from the authors in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! This book has minor spoilers for The Lochlann Deception series and maybe The Lochlann Feuds series too, so do not proceed if you haven’t read them.**
Fragile Oath is the second book in The Lochlann Deception duet which concludes Davin and Galina’s story. I first came across Robin and Elle through BOMM (Book of Matches Media) where I read their The Lochlann Feuds series and fell in absolute love with them and their work. That series was amazing and it was such a treasure that it was extended by a book. I think it’s the new and expected choice nowadays that a series be 4-5 books so I didn’t think much of it then and was honestly happy to be able to read one more book casting Evander and Rowan. I will add that I was especially pleased when I realised that the plot truly required that extra book. So when I saw that this series was only two books, I was surprised. Nowadays, when even standalone books are rare, a duet? Can they pull it off?
They absolutely did.
Galina and Davin are introduced in Rowan and Evander’s story and while I don’t remember much of Galina, I have lots of warm memories of Davin and I was curious when I found out he was getting his own story.
Fragile Oath picks up where Hollow Court left us, with Davin and Galina pulled apart by their circumstances and the infamous Viper at loose. The book gets straight to the point and though initially I considered recommending every reader do a quick reread of Hollow Court before starting, I found as I continued reading everything fell into place swiftly. For me, this is such a big plus, given that this book so easily reminds you of what has happened without delving into pages long summary mid-dialogue/plot.
The pace was stunning in this book. I just breezed through it! I was done with the book in nearly two sittings. The book was a chase of one significant thing: the truth; one that stemmed from betrayal and one from love. I loved watching the unravelling of the story on both fronts, in alternative perspectives of the protagonists. There was never a dull moment, nor one where I stumbled confused whose mind I was in. Kudos to the writing on that front.
I’ve always thought that Elle and Robin make a great team. I love reading their work. They bring a lot of humour, heart and emotion to everything they write and Fragile Oath is no different. Their work has always been easy to read, the world-building neat and comprehensible and their characters loveable.
The plot was rather straightforward but the reveal came as a real surprise! I love that I couldn’t predict the ending and at the same time it was still rather believable. This series reads a little like a novella to me, so perhaps that’s why we did not get to have some more information on the characters, which would’ve added to the shock of the reveal. Though it’s also likely that that would’ve given away too much? Honestly, it’s a very subjective preference.
The female protagonist—Galina—really took her time in this duet, to understand herself, trust herself and those around her. It was a slow progress that was hindered and then restarted. Perhaps because the duet is filled with so many things happening, there wasn’t as much tension or emotional investment I felt toward the love story between the protagonists. So, I didn’t really feel sad or frustrated or anything too intensely—as I did in their other series. I found myself just watching the emotional events between the MMC and FMC unfold naturally and just went with it.
I absolutely loved the family dynamics in this gigantic series that Robin and Elle have built and I would recommend reading them in that order to be able to truly enjoy these connections. The cousins are my favourite and I love that they’ve been there in the series for one another throughout. I have to say a certain character is on my mind and I’m curious to see if his story is what we’ll read about next.
Four stars! Happy reading! As always, do check trigger warnings for this book!
**Received an Advanced Reader’s Copy from the authors in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! This book has minor spoilers for The Lochlann Deception series and maybe The Lochlann Feuds series too, so do not proceed if you haven’t read them.**
Fragile Oath is the second book in The Lochlann Deception duet which concludes Davin and Galina’s story. I first came across Robin and Elle through BOMM (Book of Matches Media) where I read their The Lochlann Feuds series and fell in absolute love with them and their work. That series was amazing and it was such a treasure that it was extended by a book. I think it’s the new and expected choice nowadays that a series be 4-5 books so I didn’t think much of it then and was honestly happy to be able to read one more book casting Evander and Rowan. I will add that I was especially pleased when I realised that the plot truly required that extra book. So when I saw that this series was only two books, I was surprised. Nowadays, when even standalone books are rare, a duet? Can they pull it off?
They absolutely did.
Galina and Davin are introduced in Rowan and Evander’s story and while I don’t remember much of Galina, I have lots of warm memories of Davin and I was curious when I found out he was getting his own story.
Fragile Oath picks up where Hollow Court left us, with Davin and Galina pulled apart by their circumstances and the infamous Viper at loose. The book gets straight to the point and though initially I considered recommending every reader do a quick reread of Hollow Court before starting, I found as I continued reading everything fell into place swiftly. For me, this is such a big plus, given that this book so easily reminds you of what has happened without delving into pages long summary mid-dialogue/plot.
The pace was stunning in this book. I just breezed through it! I was done with the book in nearly two sittings. The book was a chase of one significant thing: the truth; one that stemmed from betrayal and one from love. I loved watching the unravelling of the story on both fronts, in alternative perspectives of the protagonists. There was never a dull moment, nor one where I stumbled confused whose mind I was in. Kudos to the writing on that front.
I’ve always thought that Elle and Robin make a great team. I love reading their work. They bring a lot of humour, heart and emotion to everything they write and Fragile Oath is no different. Their work has always been easy to read, the world-building neat and comprehensible and their characters loveable.
The plot was rather straightforward but the reveal came as a real surprise! I love that I couldn’t predict the ending and at the same time it was still rather believable. This series reads a little like a novella to me, so perhaps that’s why we did not get to have some more information on the characters, which would’ve added to the shock of the reveal. Though it’s also likely that that would’ve given away too much? Honestly, it’s a very subjective preference.
The female protagonist—Galina—really took her time in this duet, to understand herself, trust herself and those around her. It was a slow progress that was hindered and then restarted. Perhaps because the duet is filled with so many things happening, there wasn’t as much tension or emotional investment I felt toward the love story between the protagonists. So, I didn’t really feel sad or frustrated or anything too intensely—as I did in their other series. I found myself just watching the emotional events between the MMC and FMC unfold naturally and just went with it.
I absolutely loved the family dynamics in this gigantic series that Robin and Elle have built and I would recommend reading them in that order to be able to truly enjoy these connections. The cousins are my favourite and I love that they’ve been there in the series for one another throughout. I have to say a certain character is on my mind and I’m curious to see if his story is what we’ll read about next.
Four stars! Happy reading! As always, do check trigger warnings for this book!
January 6, 2024
❄️ An icy Socairan lady
🤜 kidnapped by her Ex
🏰 A Lochlannian laird
💖 A fake betrothal... Or is it?
👑 A court to win over
⚔️ A rebellion looming
🐍 A viper to find
Just as her fake betrothal was becoming something more Galina's new life was shattered as her brutish and dangerous clan leader ex kidnaps her under threat of violence against those she loves. Seeing no choice she follows duty instead of her heart. 💔
Davin awakes to find his betrothed missing and his cousin dead with a murder accusation levelled against him, and a full trial where one wrong move could spark rebellion against his family. 😬
In a race against time Davin risks everything to save Galina, and find the mysterious Viper - the real person responsible for both the murder of his cousin and inciting the ever increasing threat of rebellion. ⚔️
Can Davin and Galina save each other or will their relationship be one more victim of the Viper's machinations and their own folly? 🐍
I like the fantasy historical fiction vibes, the clan politics, the plot twists and the faux betrothal forced proximity troupe. 🥰
I was excited to see where Davin and Galina's story went but I found their complete lack of communication about their feelings beyond infuriating. This is one of the tropes that always irritates me and boy did these two try my patience. I love Davin, and I liked Galina individually but their evolution as a couple was so slow and stilted which is partially understandable for the characters butbI thought went a little too far/long - both characters had things they needed to work through. They could have been such a powerful force if they had opened up and worked together instead it felt like they were continually going in circles in their relationship with each other. 💞
However, I was invested enough in the clan politics and mystery of who the Viper is to push through my annoyance at our leading couple 🤣 I also loved seeing more of Gal, Gwyn and Davin in action together and Davin's family dynamics in this one. Honestly the family are my faves 🥰
The ending felt a bit rushed after almost the first half - 2/3 of the book was dedicated to saving Galina but did wrap everything up well. All in all an enjoyable read!
🤜 kidnapped by her Ex
🏰 A Lochlannian laird
💖 A fake betrothal... Or is it?
👑 A court to win over
⚔️ A rebellion looming
🐍 A viper to find
Just as her fake betrothal was becoming something more Galina's new life was shattered as her brutish and dangerous clan leader ex kidnaps her under threat of violence against those she loves. Seeing no choice she follows duty instead of her heart. 💔
Davin awakes to find his betrothed missing and his cousin dead with a murder accusation levelled against him, and a full trial where one wrong move could spark rebellion against his family. 😬
In a race against time Davin risks everything to save Galina, and find the mysterious Viper - the real person responsible for both the murder of his cousin and inciting the ever increasing threat of rebellion. ⚔️
Can Davin and Galina save each other or will their relationship be one more victim of the Viper's machinations and their own folly? 🐍
I like the fantasy historical fiction vibes, the clan politics, the plot twists and the faux betrothal forced proximity troupe. 🥰
I was excited to see where Davin and Galina's story went but I found their complete lack of communication about their feelings beyond infuriating. This is one of the tropes that always irritates me and boy did these two try my patience. I love Davin, and I liked Galina individually but their evolution as a couple was so slow and stilted which is partially understandable for the characters butbI thought went a little too far/long - both characters had things they needed to work through. They could have been such a powerful force if they had opened up and worked together instead it felt like they were continually going in circles in their relationship with each other. 💞
However, I was invested enough in the clan politics and mystery of who the Viper is to push through my annoyance at our leading couple 🤣 I also loved seeing more of Gal, Gwyn and Davin in action together and Davin's family dynamics in this one. Honestly the family are my faves 🥰
The ending felt a bit rushed after almost the first half - 2/3 of the book was dedicated to saving Galina but did wrap everything up well. All in all an enjoyable read!
June 24, 2025
Did not like. Frankly I want to give it one star.
Did not like this one. I had to DNF. No matter that I tried my hardest to push myself through it, I simply couldn’t do it.
As much as I want to give it only one star, I’ll stick with two since it wasn’t a dumpster fire. It just wasn’t my thing. I don’t enjoy being stuck reading from a characters perspective that brings nothing but negativity. It’s like marinating in negative energy for hours. Hard pass thanks.
It was torture being in that headspace. Seeing things through her eyes and her thoughts. MFC was about as smart as a bag of hair. When a character continuously makes bad decision after bad decision yet proceeds to do so even with the bad outcomes experienced, I tend to be unable to connect with them no matter what turn of events may lie around the corner. This girl didn’t learn, didn’t change, didn’t grow. There has to be some kind of growth taking place. She really got worse instead. She brought on so much of her misery herself. She caused problems for so many other people. Yet she played the blame game every single time. She was the biggest hypocrite I think I’ve ever been stuck reading. She literally did nothing but lie and hide things throughout the entirety of both books. Yet continuously accused the MMC of having lied to her, threw it in his face multiple times and held it against him. And the fact was he had valid reasoning for not telling her who he really was. And FFS couldn’t just once actually speak up for herself with MMF outside of when she was trying to be purposefully cruel to him? She had no problems speaking her mind then. Take, take, take was all she did. Nope. Couldn’t get behind her.
Quite a few editing issues as well. Duplicated words in sentences. Missing words. Grammar.
Did not like this one. I had to DNF. No matter that I tried my hardest to push myself through it, I simply couldn’t do it.
As much as I want to give it only one star, I’ll stick with two since it wasn’t a dumpster fire. It just wasn’t my thing. I don’t enjoy being stuck reading from a characters perspective that brings nothing but negativity. It’s like marinating in negative energy for hours. Hard pass thanks.
It was torture being in that headspace. Seeing things through her eyes and her thoughts. MFC was about as smart as a bag of hair. When a character continuously makes bad decision after bad decision yet proceeds to do so even with the bad outcomes experienced, I tend to be unable to connect with them no matter what turn of events may lie around the corner. This girl didn’t learn, didn’t change, didn’t grow. There has to be some kind of growth taking place. She really got worse instead. She brought on so much of her misery herself. She caused problems for so many other people. Yet she played the blame game every single time. She was the biggest hypocrite I think I’ve ever been stuck reading. She literally did nothing but lie and hide things throughout the entirety of both books. Yet continuously accused the MMC of having lied to her, threw it in his face multiple times and held it against him. And the fact was he had valid reasoning for not telling her who he really was. And FFS couldn’t just once actually speak up for herself with MMF outside of when she was trying to be purposefully cruel to him? She had no problems speaking her mind then. Take, take, take was all she did. Nope. Couldn’t get behind her.
Quite a few editing issues as well. Duplicated words in sentences. Missing words. Grammar.
December 1, 2023
I have been dying to read the conclusion to Davin and Galina's story the moment I finished the first one. And as always, Elle and Robin didn't disappoint.
Davin has been my favorite of the cousins since the Lochlann Feuds series and I was so excited when they decided to tell his story next. His cocky and charming personality and protectiveness over his family has always made me love him. And his character had so much growth in this series, especially in this book. I will be honest. In the Feuds series I wasn't the biggest fan of Galina and even though there were times I was slightly frustrated with her stubbornness, she definitely ended up winning me over quite quickly.
I have to say this was definitely my favorite of the two books because of how many of the original characters they brought in. I truly loved Charlie's story and the characters that made me fall in love with Elle & Robin's writing to begin with. And I absolutely love how they brought so many of them into this book.
Saying all of that, this book had me on the edge of my seat the entire time, having to know what was going to happen next. It always kept you guessing and just when you think you had it figured out, something else would happen to make you question everything. Overall it was a great end to the series, I especially loved how they closed it with the final chapter.
*I received an ARC from the authors in exchange for an honest review*
Davin has been my favorite of the cousins since the Lochlann Feuds series and I was so excited when they decided to tell his story next. His cocky and charming personality and protectiveness over his family has always made me love him. And his character had so much growth in this series, especially in this book. I will be honest. In the Feuds series I wasn't the biggest fan of Galina and even though there were times I was slightly frustrated with her stubbornness, she definitely ended up winning me over quite quickly.
I have to say this was definitely my favorite of the two books because of how many of the original characters they brought in. I truly loved Charlie's story and the characters that made me fall in love with Elle & Robin's writing to begin with. And I absolutely love how they brought so many of them into this book.
Saying all of that, this book had me on the edge of my seat the entire time, having to know what was going to happen next. It always kept you guessing and just when you think you had it figured out, something else would happen to make you question everything. Overall it was a great end to the series, I especially loved how they closed it with the final chapter.
*I received an ARC from the authors in exchange for an honest review*
November 22, 2023
𝘍𝘳𝘢𝘨𝘪𝘭𝘦 𝘖𝘢𝘵𝘩 𝘣𝘺 𝘙𝘰𝘣𝘪𝘯 𝘋 𝘔𝘢𝘩𝘭𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘌𝘭𝘭𝘦 𝘔𝘢𝘥𝘪𝘴𝘰𝘯
𝓢𝓱𝓮 𝓼𝓪𝓬𝓻𝓲𝓯𝓲𝓬𝓮𝓭 𝓱𝓮𝓻𝓼𝓮𝓵𝓯 𝓽𝓸 𝓼𝓪𝓿𝓮 𝓱𝓲𝓶. 𝓗𝓮’𝓵𝓵 𝓼𝓪𝓬𝓻𝓲𝓯𝓲𝓬𝓮 𝓮𝓿𝓮𝓻𝔂𝓽𝓱𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓽𝓸 𝓰𝓮𝓽 𝓱𝓮𝓻 𝓫𝓪𝓬𝓴.
After the heart-stopping cliffhanger of Hollow Court, the finale of the Lochlann Deception duology focuses on determining who is truly worthy of your love and your loyalty.
Davin and Galina are separated, fighting betrayal and prejudice at every turn. And the one thing they will never stop fighting for?
Each other.
Delve back into the Lochlann realm to experience heartbreak, laughter and love alongside old, new and furry friends. The banter, political tension and the worldbuilding are just perfection whilst the characterisation is reminiscent of every book written by Robin Mahle and Elle Madison: the writing duo consistently create characters who we fall in love with and who will stay with us for years to come. Each reader becomes a member of the Pendragon family and we wouldn’t change it for the world!
This duology has it all: sass, swooning and just the right amount of sinister.
With references to domestic abuse and violence, this is not going to be an easily won happily ever after for Galina and Davin but, after he stole our hearts back in Scarlet Princess, we will never stop rooting for our favourite Lochlanian playboy
Thank you to the authors for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest opinions.
𝓢𝓱𝓮 𝓼𝓪𝓬𝓻𝓲𝓯𝓲𝓬𝓮𝓭 𝓱𝓮𝓻𝓼𝓮𝓵𝓯 𝓽𝓸 𝓼𝓪𝓿𝓮 𝓱𝓲𝓶. 𝓗𝓮’𝓵𝓵 𝓼𝓪𝓬𝓻𝓲𝓯𝓲𝓬𝓮 𝓮𝓿𝓮𝓻𝔂𝓽𝓱𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓽𝓸 𝓰𝓮𝓽 𝓱𝓮𝓻 𝓫𝓪𝓬𝓴.
After the heart-stopping cliffhanger of Hollow Court, the finale of the Lochlann Deception duology focuses on determining who is truly worthy of your love and your loyalty.
Davin and Galina are separated, fighting betrayal and prejudice at every turn. And the one thing they will never stop fighting for?
Each other.
Delve back into the Lochlann realm to experience heartbreak, laughter and love alongside old, new and furry friends. The banter, political tension and the worldbuilding are just perfection whilst the characterisation is reminiscent of every book written by Robin Mahle and Elle Madison: the writing duo consistently create characters who we fall in love with and who will stay with us for years to come. Each reader becomes a member of the Pendragon family and we wouldn’t change it for the world!
This duology has it all: sass, swooning and just the right amount of sinister.
With references to domestic abuse and violence, this is not going to be an easily won happily ever after for Galina and Davin but, after he stole our hearts back in Scarlet Princess, we will never stop rooting for our favourite Lochlanian playboy
Thank you to the authors for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest opinions.
November 22, 2023
What do you do when your loyalties are tested? Worse when you aren’t sure who deserves your loyalty? Should it be based on fear? On archaic social values? On history? Or on love? Is it even possible to choose ? How do you protect those you care about, and still find a way to keep yourself safe and maybe just maybe even have a shot at true love and the happily ever after we all want?
Once again we see scenarios that touch our hearts and challenges that are rooted in reality, hardships too many have had to face, choices that in one way or another we have all had to make.
Love, betrayal, family ties, politics and more are just some of the things our couple have to navigate their way through.
The artful world building, the characters that move us, and the familiar banter that these ladies are known for, are included in every page. Over and over I’m impressed by how the characters in the is world all are intertwined and how each series, Lochlan Treaty, Lochlan Feuds and now Lochlan Deception, all seamlessly flow in and around one another.
Bravo! You’ve captured our hearts and our minds again.
Once again we see scenarios that touch our hearts and challenges that are rooted in reality, hardships too many have had to face, choices that in one way or another we have all had to make.
Love, betrayal, family ties, politics and more are just some of the things our couple have to navigate their way through.
The artful world building, the characters that move us, and the familiar banter that these ladies are known for, are included in every page. Over and over I’m impressed by how the characters in the is world all are intertwined and how each series, Lochlan Treaty, Lochlan Feuds and now Lochlan Deception, all seamlessly flow in and around one another.
Bravo! You’ve captured our hearts and our minds again.
December 2, 2023
This book did not go at all how I expected it to go, and I loved that! I like smart writing that doesn't follow "normal' story arcs that are so common nowadays. Without giving too much away, there ended up being two main story lines in this book and the authors meshed them together very well. There is tension and drama in the first major part of the story; and wow, the second part qualifies as a fantasy/thriller (is that a genre?). If it had been a movie, I'd have been on the couch, chin on my knees and a big pillow in from of me, with my hands over my eyes, peeking out between my fingers at the end of the movie. Scared to see what was coming, but just HAVING to know how it ended! The characters are good and well written, the story is terrific with tension, mystery, and good character development. If you like epic fantasy, you'll love this duology. I recommend that you read 'The Hollow Court' first to get the background for this exciting story. In fact, the whole Lochlann series is well worth the time to read, with well loved characters and stories that will stay with you long after you put the books down.
January 26, 2024
If the first book kept me on the edge of my seat, this one had me hopping up and down like a nut! Omg. It was so good.
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Galina really stressed me out sometimes, but seeing her really find herself was lovely. And Davin. 😍 Seeing what's happening behind his rakish charm was the best. He may not have the woo-woo powers, but his bad side should still be avoided.
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And all the heightened political tensions and investigations just kept this one really action packed!
Touch her and 💀 is literal. And the best.
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And of course the full cast of delightful characters. The twins were always great, but I exceptionally enjoyed getting to see a wee bit of Princess Avani.
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And the letters between Davin and Rowan. Bwahahahahaha! These two. Even when the sh!t is hitting the fan their candor and banter is hilarious. Especially the way Davin flirts with Evander just to annoy him, and manages via letter which is really impressive.
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This is such a wonderful duology. I enjoyed immensely and I highly recommend it! I also recommend reading at least the Lochlann Feuds set first for the best understanding of the situation.
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Galina really stressed me out sometimes, but seeing her really find herself was lovely. And Davin. 😍 Seeing what's happening behind his rakish charm was the best. He may not have the woo-woo powers, but his bad side should still be avoided.
.
And all the heightened political tensions and investigations just kept this one really action packed!
Touch her and 💀 is literal. And the best.
.
And of course the full cast of delightful characters. The twins were always great, but I exceptionally enjoyed getting to see a wee bit of Princess Avani.
.
And the letters between Davin and Rowan. Bwahahahahaha! These two. Even when the sh!t is hitting the fan their candor and banter is hilarious. Especially the way Davin flirts with Evander just to annoy him, and manages via letter which is really impressive.
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This is such a wonderful duology. I enjoyed immensely and I highly recommend it! I also recommend reading at least the Lochlann Feuds set first for the best understanding of the situation.
November 29, 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed this conclusion to Davin and Galena’s story. Fragile Oath is the second book in the Lachlann Deception duology (which is part of the greater Lochlann world you need to visit!). I really don’t want to write a summary of the book because you either read the description already or someone told you to read the story… so I’ll just tell you how it hits.
I feel like we’ve loved Davin for so long now, and man he went through some stuff. And Galena, too. I’m so happy for them. I feel like we’re old friends, and I love the hea for them. My only issue… I was super frustrated that work and momming and life got in the way of finishing it faster, but it was worth every minute I was able to steal away. I do feel like the ending was a bit fast and maybe too easy? Otherwise I enjoyed the drama and the pacing and the banter!
If you haven’t already, take a deep dive into this world. This was just one of many amazing stories, and I’m they write more in this world. Maybe Avani’s story…she deserves a hea.
I feel like we’ve loved Davin for so long now, and man he went through some stuff. And Galena, too. I’m so happy for them. I feel like we’re old friends, and I love the hea for them. My only issue… I was super frustrated that work and momming and life got in the way of finishing it faster, but it was worth every minute I was able to steal away. I do feel like the ending was a bit fast and maybe too easy? Otherwise I enjoyed the drama and the pacing and the banter!
If you haven’t already, take a deep dive into this world. This was just one of many amazing stories, and I’m they write more in this world. Maybe Avani’s story…she deserves a hea.
December 6, 2023
Mahle and Madison have done it again! I absolutely adored being back in Lochlann with our whole crazy crew. The second book in the Lochlann Deception kept me on my toes the whole time. When I thought the major plot point that needed to be solved was over, there was a whole other issue that needed to be resolved, even bigger than the first! There were one or two revelations I didn’t see coming that really wowed me. And Malishka, my new fav character ❤️❤️ I loved the little quirks such as the intro to grandma Siobhan’s ring that no one could even pretend was beautiful 😂 one of my favorite parts was seeing the OG generations characters back in action. I enjoyed seeing Galina’s character grow and develop and overcome her upbringing, despite reverting to old ways at one point and seeing whether her family could/would support her growth or not. Gal and Gwyn were some of my favorites this book and I’m really hoping we get more with them. I also liked getting to now Avani a bit this book, creatures and all. This world is one of my all-time favorites and I can’t wait for more!
January 3, 2024
This was a hard one for me to start, but I'm glad I finally made my way through it. The story as a whole was wonderful when you think of both books together. These two authors together really write just amazing books. I enjoyed how cohesive this was from one book to the next, continuing themes and conflicts without plot holes or random new characters.
I'll be honest, I don't like Galina. She really didn't redeem herself for me at all throughout the entire story, and that detracted from my wanting to read her point of view on things. Davin was better, although this pair just isn't my favorite couple from the Lochlann realm. I was super excited to see the thieves make an appearance and get to see a tiny bit more of Fia, with just a potential glimpse into some of her background.
My favorite part was actually the ending because it went a completely different way than I was expecting. The viper was no one on my suspicions list and the way it was revealed and resolved was just really well done.
Overall, I think this story as a whole was worth reading and should be read by fans of the other lochlann series, but I wouldn't go out of my way to reread it. It was nice to return to Lochlann.
I'll be honest, I don't like Galina. She really didn't redeem herself for me at all throughout the entire story, and that detracted from my wanting to read her point of view on things. Davin was better, although this pair just isn't my favorite couple from the Lochlann realm. I was super excited to see the thieves make an appearance and get to see a tiny bit more of Fia, with just a potential glimpse into some of her background.
My favorite part was actually the ending because it went a completely different way than I was expecting. The viper was no one on my suspicions list and the way it was revealed and resolved was just really well done.
Overall, I think this story as a whole was worth reading and should be read by fans of the other lochlann series, but I wouldn't go out of my way to reread it. It was nice to return to Lochlann.
January 8, 2024
I know this sounds stupid but I did not know that three of these different series were of the same family and so I read them in the wrong order. I also read them with enough time a part that I forgot the other stories. I think I would have enjoyed this more if I read them in quick succession. I preferred the other two series better than this duology.
Read them in this order:
The Lochlann Treaty: Complete Series
Rowan: The Lochlann Feuds - Complete Series
Hollow Court
Read them in this order:
The Lochlann Treaty: Complete Series
Rowan: The Lochlann Feuds - Complete Series
Hollow Court
July 7, 2024
Loved seeing more of Davin! I feel like we got to get to know him a lot better. There are a lot of things I love about this series, but some I didn’t.
——Spoilers ahead! ———
I loved seeing more of Davin’s life, meeting Galina and learning about her (I see so much of myself in her), the almost thriller- esque search for the Viper, the shock when you find out who it really is, etc.
One thing I didn’t like though is how it felt forced at times. It was kinda over all but one example I can think of is how Davin won the fight with Alexi so fast - Alexi was hyped up to be this brute and to be feared and to see how Davin took him down with such ease, no tension, no main-character build up of getting knocked down but pushing through, it was almost too easy. And there was one section that was literally repeated like copy and paste. And there was a spelling mistake. Those last two truly are not important, and overall it’s still an amazing story I enjoyed so much. The ending almost made me cry 🥹
——Spoilers ahead! ———
I loved seeing more of Davin’s life, meeting Galina and learning about her (I see so much of myself in her), the almost thriller- esque search for the Viper, the shock when you find out who it really is, etc.
One thing I didn’t like though is how it felt forced at times. It was kinda over all but one example I can think of is how Davin won the fight with Alexi so fast - Alexi was hyped up to be this brute and to be feared and to see how Davin took him down with such ease, no tension, no main-character build up of getting knocked down but pushing through, it was almost too easy. And there was one section that was literally repeated like copy and paste. And there was a spelling mistake. Those last two truly are not important, and overall it’s still an amazing story I enjoyed so much. The ending almost made me cry 🥹
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