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The Empty Throne Trilogy #2
Contested Crown
I can’t give him up, even if it costs me my life...
Miles and Cade are on the run. Without money, protection, or allies they have only each other to rely on as they flee the most powerful mage house in the country. Unfortunately, the outside world is even more dangerous than the lion’s den they just escaped from.
No matter how right it feels to have the mage prince relying on him, Miles knows the closer they get to each other the more dangerous it is for both of them.
A new mage house is Cade’s only chance to survive the magical war he started. With House Morrison exclusively interested in Cade, Miles will be left out in the cold. And can he stay with Cade when every moment together risks revealing Miles’s deepest secret?
Miles and Cade are on the run. Without money, protection, or allies they have only each other to rely on as they flee the most powerful mage house in the country. Unfortunately, the outside world is even more dangerous than the lion’s den they just escaped from.
No matter how right it feels to have the mage prince relying on him, Miles knows the closer they get to each other the more dangerous it is for both of them.
A new mage house is Cade’s only chance to survive the magical war he started. With House Morrison exclusively interested in Cade, Miles will be left out in the cold. And can he stay with Cade when every moment together risks revealing Miles’s deepest secret?
14 pages, Audible Audio
First published February 26, 2024
196 people are currently reading
230 people want to read
About the author
Kai Butler
26 books495 followersKai has been reading and writing romance novels since she was a teenager. She lives in California with her two children and her very supportive husband.
She writes M/M romance with an emphasis on HEAs and all the feels. Her current series are San Amaro Investigations and the Imperial Space Regency Novels. She likes dashing heroes and couples with banter.
She writes M/M romance with an emphasis on HEAs and all the feels. Her current series are San Amaro Investigations and the Imperial Space Regency Novels. She likes dashing heroes and couples with banter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
March 17, 2024
Really enjoying this series but I wish I had waited until book 3 was released so I could binge the whole thing. Now I have to wait until June for the finale 😭😭
February 28, 2024
Action-packed and fast-paced. Can't put down - need to know what happens next kind of book.
But also character growth and relationship development. Epic ending - the big secret is now in the open. But there are still more questions than answers. The 3rd book can't be here soon enough!
At a certain point, the action was a bit overwhelming, I wanted some downtime for myself and the MCs 😀
The book is not a stand-alone. Need to start with the first book.
But also character growth and relationship development. Epic ending - the big secret is now in the open. But there are still more questions than answers. The 3rd book can't be here soon enough!
At a certain point, the action was a bit overwhelming, I wanted some downtime for myself and the MCs 😀
The book is not a stand-alone. Need to start with the first book.
April 4, 2024
Finished this one three hours ago. Yes I know there is a third book. There in lies my spiral into ice cream wellness and don't enter mode. Boi that was a absolute pleasure to read
Now excuse me...the ice cream is starting to melt.
Now excuse me...the ice cream is starting to melt.
October 27, 2024
This is a really good story but the writing is heavily missing emotion. There’s a ton of scenes that should be full of emotion and it’s just kind of …meh.
For example, Miles should have been experiencing a shit ton more jealousy at House Morrison with their proposal to Cade, especially when Cade was “considering” it.
Another example was the end of the book. It was way too rushed and there’s no emotion in the final scene between two people who said they loved each other. It’s just so blah. Cade is written a touch better at showing emotion but Miles is just dull.
I truly hated the ending and I think it knocked a full star off my enjoyment for me. Cade and Miles worked so hard together and loved each other so much and that ending burned through me. I thought we were avoiding the cliche of it because of everything that came before it and was actually excited about it.
Edit: also, are we supposed to be excited about Miles’ pack of criminals?
For example, Miles should have been experiencing a shit ton more jealousy at House Morrison with their proposal to Cade, especially when Cade was “considering” it.
Another example was the end of the book. It was way too rushed and there’s no emotion in the final scene between two people who said they loved each other. It’s just so blah. Cade is written a touch better at showing emotion but Miles is just dull.
I truly hated the ending and I think it knocked a full star off my enjoyment for me. Cade and Miles worked so hard together and loved each other so much and that ending burned through me. I thought we were avoiding the cliche of it because of everything that came before it and was actually excited about it.
Edit: also, are we supposed to be excited about Miles’ pack of criminals?
October 17, 2024
3.5
Miles and Cade are on the run and there is no minute to rest, neither for them nor for the reader. Additionally they have to deal with their strange magic situation which Miles takes better than Cade whose on the brink of depression but Miles is his rock and keeps him from falling. Strangely it's House Morrison and not Leon who captures them and the breathless running turns political quite quickly. New allies and old acquaintances turn up and the guys slowly become aware of the greater threat that doesn't only put the werwolves or Cade's House at risk.
This part of the series shows Miles and Cade as equals and they dance cautiously around the question if they are more than partners and it's such a relieving and sweet scene when they finally get to say those 3 words but sadly the past isn't as mastered as Miles believes it is.
I totally understood their struggle; I loved how they grew together, not too fast, not too slow, and how they dealt with the situation together but each one with his own qualities. The author really cared to show that they are equal and not in the way it is done so often in other books that one is the protector and the other the support. I just wonder how they are going to deal with Miles conflicting wish to wear Cade's collar and therefore submit to his prince and being a strong wolf emperor with his mate at his side. I was a little disappointed with how Declan was defeated. The fight against an old enemy from Miles past was much more like the end game of this book.
Now I'm looking forward how Butler is knotting all the loose ends and lead those two into their well earned HEA.
Miles and Cade are on the run and there is no minute to rest, neither for them nor for the reader. Additionally they have to deal with their strange magic situation which Miles takes better than Cade whose on the brink of depression but Miles is his rock and keeps him from falling. Strangely it's House Morrison and not Leon who captures them and the breathless running turns political quite quickly. New allies and old acquaintances turn up and the guys slowly become aware of the greater threat that doesn't only put the werwolves or Cade's House at risk.
This part of the series shows Miles and Cade as equals and they dance cautiously around the question if they are more than partners and it's such a relieving and sweet scene when they finally get to say those 3 words but sadly the past isn't as mastered as Miles believes it is.
I totally understood their struggle; I loved how they grew together, not too fast, not too slow, and how they dealt with the situation together but each one with his own qualities. The author really cared to show that they are equal and not in the way it is done so often in other books that one is the protector and the other the support. I just wonder how they are going to deal with Miles conflicting wish to wear Cade's collar and therefore submit to his prince and being a strong wolf emperor with his mate at his side. I was a little disappointed with how Declan was defeated. The fight against an old enemy from Miles past was much more like the end game of this book.
Now I'm looking forward how Butler is knotting all the loose ends and lead those two into their well earned HEA.
August 25, 2024
I kinda want Cade's pov.
February 21, 2024
Multitudes
Faaabulous!!!! I have the best/worst book hangover because of Miles and Cade. Not sure how my heart is gonna survive until our finale and I think know I’ll need to re-read them again and again until then, but oh boy and how, do these two deserve the biggest, most amazing HEA of them all!
“I didn’t know why I kept coming back, except every part of him was starting to feel like home.
He was the planet I couldn’t stop orbiting, and I knew I couldn’t give him up.”
Same, so much the same, I claim them as mine, for eternity. Prepare yourself now because the angst is real, the chemistry is fantastic, and the jaw-dropping moments are unforgettable. I knew events were coming and still they bowled me over. My heart plunked straight into the ground where it shall safely stay until Cade and Miles can forever breathe life back into it.
Faaabulous!!!! I have the best/worst book hangover because of Miles and Cade. Not sure how my heart is gonna survive until our finale and I think know I’ll need to re-read them again and again until then, but oh boy and how, do these two deserve the biggest, most amazing HEA of them all!
“I didn’t know why I kept coming back, except every part of him was starting to feel like home.
He was the planet I couldn’t stop orbiting, and I knew I couldn’t give him up.”
Same, so much the same, I claim them as mine, for eternity. Prepare yourself now because the angst is real, the chemistry is fantastic, and the jaw-dropping moments are unforgettable. I knew events were coming and still they bowled me over. My heart plunked straight into the ground where it shall safely stay until Cade and Miles can forever breathe life back into it.
March 4, 2024
Paranormal/urban fantasy romance between a mage and a werewolf shifter. Not a stand-alone.
The story picks up from the end of the first book in the series (Exiled Heir.) Miles and Cade are on the run from House Bartlett, while trying to figure out Leon's plan and where Declan fits into it all. They try to remain under the radar but trouble follows them at every turn. A lot happens in this book. Most importantly, Cade discovers Miles' true identity and the story ends on another cliffhanger.
Can't wait to read the final book in the trilogy.
The story picks up from the end of the first book in the series (Exiled Heir.) Miles and Cade are on the run from House Bartlett, while trying to figure out Leon's plan and where Declan fits into it all. They try to remain under the radar but trouble follows them at every turn. A lot happens in this book. Most importantly, Cade discovers Miles' true identity and the story ends on another cliffhanger.
Can't wait to read the final book in the trilogy.
March 26, 2024
Contested
This is a 5/5! When does book three come out? All I can say is wow!
I guess I will wait.
This is a 5/5! When does book three come out? All I can say is wow!
I guess I will wait.
September 22, 2024
Royal Issues as the truth about Declan and Leon are revealed.
Cade and his partner are challenged with reality and history as they begin to destroy Declan's Drug Lord operations and discover what Thorne really can do. The antidote may change everything as Cade realizes who the Wolf Emperor is to his family.
Cade and his partner are challenged with reality and history as they begin to destroy Declan's Drug Lord operations and discover what Thorne really can do. The antidote may change everything as Cade realizes who the Wolf Emperor is to his family.
August 19, 2024
4/5
I listened to the audiobook.
This book left me in the same state as Good Omens season 2 did!! (If you know, you know)
This book was SO GOOD though, full of action, romance-relationship growth and sexy times (honestly I think the book had the most sexy times from any of the author's books I've read-and of course I wasn't complaining 😉) It was a long book but the hours flew by because of how much I was into it!
How the hell am I now supposed to wait until June for the final book!!??
I listened to the audiobook.
This book left me in the same state as Good Omens season 2 did!! (If you know, you know)
This book was SO GOOD though, full of action, romance-relationship growth and sexy times (honestly I think the book had the most sexy times from any of the author's books I've read-and of course I wasn't complaining 😉) It was a long book but the hours flew by because of how much I was into it!
How the hell am I now supposed to wait until June for the final book!!??
February 26, 2024
Can wait to read the next book and see what happens, I am already sad that will be the end of the series.
I hope Miles's parents get unequivocally exonerated.
I understand Cade is traumatized but he refuse to think about what happened rationally and his behavior towards Miles is unfair, even if Miles parents did really kill his own, it wouldn't be Miles fault, he is a victim too.
I hope Miles's parents get unequivocally exonerated.
I understand Cade is traumatized but he refuse to think about what happened rationally and his behavior towards Miles is unfair, even if Miles parents did really kill his own, it wouldn't be Miles fault, he is a victim too.
April 16, 2024
Readable
I love the characters and the concept and I am mildly entertained. That being said, there is something missing here, something that other series by the author found where this series doesn’t. I can’t really put my finger on it. I care enough about the characters to want to finish the series but it feels like work to me.
I love the characters and the concept and I am mildly entertained. That being said, there is something missing here, something that other series by the author found where this series doesn’t. I can’t really put my finger on it. I care enough about the characters to want to finish the series but it feels like work to me.
March 27, 2024
Unfortunately I get frustrated with constant fight, run, catch, escape plots - the last quarter bumped from 2 stars to 3. They were powerless for most of the book which is another pet peeve. Love the new pack formation bonds and it ended on a good note. Will see how the final book holds up
July 13, 2024
This is a really nice follow up to the previous book, and hits all the right notes and begins answering some of our questions. It picks up with Miles and Cade on the run from house Bartlet, with Cade in a deep depression following the betrayal at the hands of one of his most trusted servants. Miles is supporting Cade through this, who is not only mentally weak at this point in the book, but also magically. The tables have completely turned from the beginning of the first book in which Cade possessed all the power and was calling the shots, to now Miles having to rescue Cade from his predicament.
Each of our main characters in this book undergoes a lot of development, they have to begin confronting their pasts and overcoming their weaknesses in order to combat Declan and Leon. Miles finally starts to come into his familial role that he is destined for and finally pursues a pack of his own, out of necessity at first but then just because its something that he craves after and has wanted for himself for years. Cade's growth comes from him slowly opening up and trusting others. Now that he has no choice but to rely on Miles' protection in earnest, it brings them closer together in a way that makes the two of them stronger- quite literally.
That's what makes the ending of this book such a sucker punch, with that trust that they built up being totally eradicated. I do feel however that the somewhat misdirect that were given earlier in the book is a little unnecessary, it makes Cade seem stupider than he otherwise would have come across as. Its a painful ending, but it ensures an interesting third entry that i'm looking forward to getting my hands on.
There's plenty of action in this one, and fast moving plot that takes us from pillar to post a lot of the time. It can come across as unstructured and meandering as a result, but due to the intense action and excellently executed scenes, i'm willing to overlook the lack of direction. The pacing does suffer as a result of this, its pretty much like being in a car with someone who can't quite get it into the right gear. Miles' ascension to emperor wolf is a prime example of this, with it being this pondered and distant dream to immediate reality out of nowhere. The building of his pack is even more egregious in that sense, seemingly made up of a bunch of random wolves that Miles has vaguely worked with in the past.
This book isn't short, its close to 500 pages, but the story isn't evenly distributed, resulting in a somewhat rushed ending that is in contrast with the weight and importance of the events unfolding. But I really enjoyed this story regardless, I love these two characters together and i'm excited to see how they overcome their obstacles in the next book.
Each of our main characters in this book undergoes a lot of development, they have to begin confronting their pasts and overcoming their weaknesses in order to combat Declan and Leon. Miles finally starts to come into his familial role that he is destined for and finally pursues a pack of his own, out of necessity at first but then just because its something that he craves after and has wanted for himself for years. Cade's growth comes from him slowly opening up and trusting others. Now that he has no choice but to rely on Miles' protection in earnest, it brings them closer together in a way that makes the two of them stronger- quite literally.
That's what makes the ending of this book such a sucker punch, with that trust that they built up being totally eradicated. I do feel however that the somewhat misdirect that were given earlier in the book is a little unnecessary, it makes Cade seem stupider than he otherwise would have come across as. Its a painful ending, but it ensures an interesting third entry that i'm looking forward to getting my hands on.
There's plenty of action in this one, and fast moving plot that takes us from pillar to post a lot of the time. It can come across as unstructured and meandering as a result, but due to the intense action and excellently executed scenes, i'm willing to overlook the lack of direction. The pacing does suffer as a result of this, its pretty much like being in a car with someone who can't quite get it into the right gear. Miles' ascension to emperor wolf is a prime example of this, with it being this pondered and distant dream to immediate reality out of nowhere. The building of his pack is even more egregious in that sense, seemingly made up of a bunch of random wolves that Miles has vaguely worked with in the past.
This book isn't short, its close to 500 pages, but the story isn't evenly distributed, resulting in a somewhat rushed ending that is in contrast with the weight and importance of the events unfolding. But I really enjoyed this story regardless, I love these two characters together and i'm excited to see how they overcome their obstacles in the next book.
February 29, 2024
4 3/4 Stars
Contested Crown is a great continuation of the Empty Throne Trilogy. I did reread the first book since there are so many characters to keep up with; it helped a lot when I picked up this one.
I was completely drained by the time I finished this book. There is so much action, so many machinations, so many characters (doing what they were meant to do and doing it well, I might add), so many emotional highs and lows, so much everything! I was wiped out. And the ending...
I fell for Miles in the first book and care about him even more now. His character is made up of bits and pieces from the different lives he has led (you can tell where each bit comes from too) and they all come together to form someone to love and respect. I would follow him if he asked.
Cade completely won me over this time around. I could see what lay beneath his icy demeanor and it broke my heart.
I was rooting for Miles, Cade, and their friends to gather strength, make good plans, and find ways to win the day.
But the ending...ah, jeez, that was hard. Worth the read, but hard.
I look forward to more from this author.
Contested Crown is a great continuation of the Empty Throne Trilogy. I did reread the first book since there are so many characters to keep up with; it helped a lot when I picked up this one.
I was completely drained by the time I finished this book. There is so much action, so many machinations, so many characters (doing what they were meant to do and doing it well, I might add), so many emotional highs and lows, so much everything! I was wiped out. And the ending...
I fell for Miles in the first book and care about him even more now. His character is made up of bits and pieces from the different lives he has led (you can tell where each bit comes from too) and they all come together to form someone to love and respect. I would follow him if he asked.
Cade completely won me over this time around. I could see what lay beneath his icy demeanor and it broke my heart.
I was rooting for Miles, Cade, and their friends to gather strength, make good plans, and find ways to win the day.
But the ending...ah, jeez, that was hard. Worth the read, but hard.
I look forward to more from this author.
March 1, 2024
My mind is still reeling 🤯🤯. The first book, Exiled Heir, started off a little slow, not as much action and suspense (but still good). But this book did not hold back any punches... starting off with a bang and it did not stop. It had non-stop action, suspense, twist and turns, humor, the world building was amazing, the characters continued to develop and become even more intriguing (not stale or repetitive). Miles and Cade's relationship started rocky but little by little it gained some trust, love, and faith....leading you into a sense of calm and happiness and then BAM! What a roller coaster ride of emotions. The delicate trust and faith has crumbled, needing to not only rebuild the trust between them, but also between the mages and werewolves to present a united front and survive the schemes of a deranged mage. Now I really need the next book, there still so many secrets to uncover and evil to defeat.
June 19, 2024
I'm just going to leave this here, because... though it was technically better and more interesting (in terms of "action" elements of the plot, not necessarily as a whole), I can't say much more than I already have without being redundant.*
*I'm always redundant so I don't know why I'm sparing myself or you here.
*I'm always redundant so I don't know why I'm sparing myself or you here.
August 22, 2024
***4.5 Stars***
June 22, 2024
So glad I waited for the final book to be released before I read this one. For a second book in a trilogy, I’ve been pleasantly surprised and relieved that this book hasn’t gone the way of most other books where the main conflict is a rift between the main characters that they then pause the main plot for an entire book just to resolve their relationship issues. What a relief this book focuses on more mystery, more developments in their individual magics that in turn add more mystery. The very end had me twitching, but overall I believe what could have been a very overdone conflict was handled so well, which is awesome.
Would I go back in time and still read this book, knowing what I know now?
Most definitely.
See below for the four criteria I use to decide whether and when to read a book
CHARACTERS: Miles and Cade’s growth as individuals and as a couple is really brilliant to read in this book. Cade is pulled out of his comfort zone this time and is drawn more into the world Miles came from (as compared to Miles entering Cade’s world in book one). At the same time, the addition of the quintessential royal politics that occur as the main conflict in the first half of the book really showcase the strength Cade and Miles have together, especially when they’re both handicapped in their respective magics. You really can see them both coming together as a unit and I truly enjoyed that.
PLOT: I touched on the plot a little bit above, but thankfully only part of the book is spent focusing on the issues that the book blurb details. It isn’t my favorite type of conflict, (re: royal politics that include your usual “you must marry someone you don’t love and give up your love”). However, I believe Kai handled it so well and even though I’m grateful that issue only took up the first half of the book rather than the whole plot, the author still did an incredible job with it! The pacing is similar to book one, not super fast-paced, but there is a sense that everything is picking up due to the tension as more and more mystery comes to light, revealing more of the bigger picture.
EMOTIONAL INTENSITY: There is no good/bad here. Sometimes I just want a low-investment entertainment read whereas other times a high-stakes 'I need a therapist to recover' is what I need.
5 out of 5/high. The world is still as immersive as ever and the tension ratcheted up in this book.
CATHARTIC FULFILLMENT: Is the emotional journey worth it? Do I finish this book feeling that I've crested the wave of the climactic moment and everything has been settled, leaving me settled and fulfilled?
75%. I am so glad I chose to wait to read this book until the third book was published. Because the smack in the face at the very end which is part cliffhanger and leaves their biggest relationship conflict finally brought to light and VERY MUCH unresolved definitely had me bleh. I’m hopeful though, because it’s impossible to put the main plot on hold for the next book in order for them to figure their sh*t out, since it’s the last book.
February 27, 2024
an Outstanding Magical book of twists and turns, a must read
Rating: 4.75🌈
Contested Crown, the second novel in The Empty Throne Trilogy, hits so many high marks. It easily overcomes the usual second book syndrome in a series, by ramping up the multiple storylines Butler has already established in the first book. The author does a great job introducing new characters whose meaning and connections to the men on the run are clouded by the new dark mysteries forming. Some of these new storylines include elements that are of a wildly magical nature while others are deeply rooted within the supernatural drug-related crime world.
It picks up right after the shocking events of Exiled Heir, with mage Cade and werewolf Miles on the run after Cade , Prince of House Bartlett, was betrayed by those closest to him m, stealing his throne and his heritage. But Miles, whose real name is Miles Castillo, is also a dethroned Prince in hiding from the very man he’s on the run with.
Butler’s narrative explores this tangled relationship that’s full of potential conflict between two cruelly connected pasts , pasts with dangerous secrets . The author’s dramatic choice to make the suspenseful , angst filled , hunted run the driving force behind the story is a fantastic narrative springboard.
Emotionally, the forced intimacy, their continued dependency under these circumstances, the constant peril, and the growing affection/attachment towards each other that this trip is allowing them to feel, it’s everything the reader wants and the author’s storytelling is beautifully achieving. It packs a darkly magical, sexual punch.
Butler’s writing simultaneously moves into new areas here with Cade and Miles, especially with regard to their magic, the use of tattoos, and the return of a old friend. The new creativity here giving their world more depth and diversity in its magical history as well as using it in the current criminal scene.
There’s so many great twists and shocks here, ones to delight and horrify. This is a book once you get started it’s impossible to put down.
That ending especially is a killer.
Now everything is in place for the dramatic events and tumultuous times to come in Ascendant King. That can’t be here quickly enough.
One last note, Contested Crown, as magnificent as it is, is definitely a bridge novel. It doesn’t exist without the first book . Nor the one to come. As a reader you must have read that first book, and have the knowledge to go along with it to understand and appreciate the events and stories that happen here.
I’m highly recommending you read both because both are outstanding.
The Empty Throne Trilogy:
- [x] Exiled Heir #1
- [x] Contested Crown #2
- [ ] Ascendant King #3 - June 17,2024
Rating: 4.75🌈
Contested Crown, the second novel in The Empty Throne Trilogy, hits so many high marks. It easily overcomes the usual second book syndrome in a series, by ramping up the multiple storylines Butler has already established in the first book. The author does a great job introducing new characters whose meaning and connections to the men on the run are clouded by the new dark mysteries forming. Some of these new storylines include elements that are of a wildly magical nature while others are deeply rooted within the supernatural drug-related crime world.
It picks up right after the shocking events of Exiled Heir, with mage Cade and werewolf Miles on the run after Cade , Prince of House Bartlett, was betrayed by those closest to him m, stealing his throne and his heritage. But Miles, whose real name is Miles Castillo, is also a dethroned Prince in hiding from the very man he’s on the run with.
Butler’s narrative explores this tangled relationship that’s full of potential conflict between two cruelly connected pasts , pasts with dangerous secrets . The author’s dramatic choice to make the suspenseful , angst filled , hunted run the driving force behind the story is a fantastic narrative springboard.
Emotionally, the forced intimacy, their continued dependency under these circumstances, the constant peril, and the growing affection/attachment towards each other that this trip is allowing them to feel, it’s everything the reader wants and the author’s storytelling is beautifully achieving. It packs a darkly magical, sexual punch.
Butler’s writing simultaneously moves into new areas here with Cade and Miles, especially with regard to their magic, the use of tattoos, and the return of a old friend. The new creativity here giving their world more depth and diversity in its magical history as well as using it in the current criminal scene.
There’s so many great twists and shocks here, ones to delight and horrify. This is a book once you get started it’s impossible to put down.
That ending especially is a killer.
Now everything is in place for the dramatic events and tumultuous times to come in Ascendant King. That can’t be here quickly enough.
One last note, Contested Crown, as magnificent as it is, is definitely a bridge novel. It doesn’t exist without the first book . Nor the one to come. As a reader you must have read that first book, and have the knowledge to go along with it to understand and appreciate the events and stories that happen here.
I’m highly recommending you read both because both are outstanding.
The Empty Throne Trilogy:
- [x] Exiled Heir #1
- [x] Contested Crown #2
- [ ] Ascendant King #3 - June 17,2024
March 1, 2024
4,5 stars
Phew!
Now that’s what I call action-packed! I'm virtually exhausted now.
I could hardly catch my breath for the first 30% as Cade and Miles run from a variety of people who are out to get them. It felt totally hopeless for them, as they get caught again and again, never being able to get rest, a break or stop fearing for their lives. Tbh, at one point I got a teeny bit annoyed at the author for putting them through all of this! 😅
Things get more complex in the second third of the book with throwing in a possible political marriage for Cade and quite a few mind-boggling developments in the magic department. With Cade’s magical strength very much depleted after the events of book 1 and Miles’s ability to shift suppressed by the drug he was given in book 1, they totally rely on each other to get out of one hairy (Ha!) situation after another.
I loved what’s eventually happening between them on the power front and on how they interact with each other. And as we near the end of the book when their relationship really blossoms and Miles thinks that Cade knows and accepts who he is (although it’s never discussed), everything gets blown open wide by an ‘unexpected’ revelation. (well, not totally unexpected, I kind of suspected something like this would happen, considering what the fortune teller predicted in book 1!)
In this book Miles comes into his own, he finds himself and his destiny with, as it seems, Cade left a little bit behind. There is, as usual, so much going on, with them trying to find out what’s happening with all the lay lines being poisoned and the changing relationship between werewolves and mages. Old enemies return with a vengeance and new ones are made.
Can’t wait for the final in the series. There is tons to be resolved, particularly with that CLIFFHANGER we’re left with. Thank you, author. I may have had a whole night (or two) speculating how this is going to work out!😂
Phew!
Now that’s what I call action-packed! I'm virtually exhausted now.
I could hardly catch my breath for the first 30% as Cade and Miles run from a variety of people who are out to get them. It felt totally hopeless for them, as they get caught again and again, never being able to get rest, a break or stop fearing for their lives. Tbh, at one point I got a teeny bit annoyed at the author for putting them through all of this! 😅
Things get more complex in the second third of the book with throwing in a possible political marriage for Cade and quite a few mind-boggling developments in the magic department. With Cade’s magical strength very much depleted after the events of book 1 and Miles’s ability to shift suppressed by the drug he was given in book 1, they totally rely on each other to get out of one hairy (Ha!) situation after another.
I loved what’s eventually happening between them on the power front and on how they interact with each other. And as we near the end of the book when their relationship really blossoms and Miles thinks that Cade knows and accepts who he is (although it’s never discussed), everything gets blown open wide by an ‘unexpected’ revelation. (well, not totally unexpected, I kind of suspected something like this would happen, considering what the fortune teller predicted in book 1!)
In this book Miles comes into his own, he finds himself and his destiny with, as it seems, Cade left a little bit behind. There is, as usual, so much going on, with them trying to find out what’s happening with all the lay lines being poisoned and the changing relationship between werewolves and mages. Old enemies return with a vengeance and new ones are made.
Can’t wait for the final in the series. There is tons to be resolved, particularly with that CLIFFHANGER we’re left with. Thank you, author. I may have had a whole night (or two) speculating how this is going to work out!😂
March 4, 2024
It's a good book, and I had a lot of fun reading it. However, I didn't like it as much as the first one or other books from Butler.
Cade and Miles are on the run from Leon, both weakened and almost penniless. The story is fine and fast-paced with a good amount of tension. There's plenty of magic and action. Also, I really prefer books with a single point of view. We get to know more about Miles as we see the world through his eyes. The world-building is fantastic, the plot (or plots) is great, featuring action and politics.
However, on the downside, Miles comes off as a somewhat boring and simplistic character, often acting like an insecure teenager making silly decisions. The end of the book is also a bit disappointing. I won't spoil it, but it was resolved in a way that raises the question: if it was so simple, why hadn't they done it before?
Then there's the relationship between Miles and Cade. It's refreshing to read a story that doesn't revolve around the usual instant, eternal love. They struggle to come together, both reserved and distrustful, and every step closer is followed by two steps apart. Amidst all this, there's a discussion about dominance between them, who leads whom, who owns whom. This could have been really interesting, but in the end, it fails to hit the mark and becomes somewhat boring and shallow, making the book's conclusion utterly predictable. Moreover, the unnecessary amount of explicit scenes was quite tedious.
If you, like me, enjoyed the first book, you should give this one a try. I liked it, but perhaps my expectations were too high, and it let me down. However, it wasn’t enough to make me regret reading it, and I'll be picking up the last one as soon as it becomes available
Cade and Miles are on the run from Leon, both weakened and almost penniless. The story is fine and fast-paced with a good amount of tension. There's plenty of magic and action. Also, I really prefer books with a single point of view. We get to know more about Miles as we see the world through his eyes. The world-building is fantastic, the plot (or plots) is great, featuring action and politics.
However, on the downside, Miles comes off as a somewhat boring and simplistic character, often acting like an insecure teenager making silly decisions. The end of the book is also a bit disappointing. I won't spoil it, but it was resolved in a way that raises the question: if it was so simple, why hadn't they done it before?
Then there's the relationship between Miles and Cade. It's refreshing to read a story that doesn't revolve around the usual instant, eternal love. They struggle to come together, both reserved and distrustful, and every step closer is followed by two steps apart. Amidst all this, there's a discussion about dominance between them, who leads whom, who owns whom. This could have been really interesting, but in the end, it fails to hit the mark and becomes somewhat boring and shallow, making the book's conclusion utterly predictable. Moreover, the unnecessary amount of explicit scenes was quite tedious.
If you, like me, enjoyed the first book, you should give this one a try. I liked it, but perhaps my expectations were too high, and it let me down. However, it wasn’t enough to make me regret reading it, and I'll be picking up the last one as soon as it becomes available
April 3, 2024
An interesting follow-up to Exiled Heir, picking up right where the previous book left off, but people hoping for some satisfying answers will apparently have to wait for the final book in the trilogy.
I thought being on the run and away from House Bartlett should shake things a bit and sure, it's definitely less back-stabbing and more front-stabbing this time. However, as much as I like fast-paced stories with non-stop action, after yet another incident of Miles and Cade getting chased by yet another murderous bunch of mages or werewolves, I couldn't help thinking ‘what, again?’. To be fair though, between one fight and another there's quite a lot happening in the relationship development department. Even the ice prince was showing some signs of getting attached so for a hot second I might have believed they can actually get somewhere at last. Too bad it all went down the drain when Miles' biggest cat got out of the bag.
Personally, I'm still more invested in the over-arching intrigue and court politics than in Miles and Cade's HEA. I think I would have liked it better if the narration wasn't one-sided and we got at least a peek into Cade's state of mind, but as it is, I've got serious trouble believing in this partnership going anywhere good, especially with the constant one step forward, ten steps backward setup. That being said, the story actually keeps the reader curious about the remaining hows and whys and makes them want to see where it all goes next, so the sequel can't come soon enough.
ARC provided by the author, I have chosen to read and write an honest review.
I thought being on the run and away from House Bartlett should shake things a bit and sure, it's definitely less back-stabbing and more front-stabbing this time. However, as much as I like fast-paced stories with non-stop action, after yet another incident of Miles and Cade getting chased by yet another murderous bunch of mages or werewolves, I couldn't help thinking ‘what, again?’. To be fair though, between one fight and another there's quite a lot happening in the relationship development department. Even the ice prince was showing some signs of getting attached so for a hot second I might have believed they can actually get somewhere at last. Too bad it all went down the drain when Miles' biggest cat got out of the bag.
Personally, I'm still more invested in the over-arching intrigue and court politics than in Miles and Cade's HEA. I think I would have liked it better if the narration wasn't one-sided and we got at least a peek into Cade's state of mind, but as it is, I've got serious trouble believing in this partnership going anywhere good, especially with the constant one step forward, ten steps backward setup. That being said, the story actually keeps the reader curious about the remaining hows and whys and makes them want to see where it all goes next, so the sequel can't come soon enough.
ARC provided by the author, I have chosen to read and write an honest review.
August 28, 2025
4.5 Stars 🌟
This series has been the come from behind series of the week for me. I think it might have been because I went into this with really no expectations and boy oh boy did it just blow my mind.
The storyline itself revolves around our two MMC's- Cade and Miles - as they are now on the run from everybody. Cade of course, is the exiled Prince (and a Mage) who was betrayed by his family so brutally that it hurt my heart - not to mention they tried to kill him. Then there is Miles, a werewolf shifter who has been through the gamut because of Cade (and his life is on the line too). Cade is not aware of the fact that Miles' mother was "supposedly" the wolf who killed his parents, but Miles does not believe that (and honestly, neither do I). Unfortunately, Cade freezes up whenever the topic arises, so it is not something that they have ever discussed.
So they are on the run, and trying to deal with the poison that they were injected with that not only took away Miles' ability to shift but did crazy things to Cade's magic. BUT...these guys are not giving up and little by little, things are beginning to possibly look up. No spoilers, but let's just say that some things are happening that might change the course that they thought they were on.
Of course, this book ends with an AWFUL cliffhanger, but by this time, I am completely invested. Seriously, I already went and bought the next book. I HAVE to find out how they are going to deal and recover from the latest blow to their lives.
This series has been the come from behind series of the week for me. I think it might have been because I went into this with really no expectations and boy oh boy did it just blow my mind.
The storyline itself revolves around our two MMC's- Cade and Miles - as they are now on the run from everybody. Cade of course, is the exiled Prince (and a Mage) who was betrayed by his family so brutally that it hurt my heart - not to mention they tried to kill him. Then there is Miles, a werewolf shifter who has been through the gamut because of Cade (and his life is on the line too). Cade is not aware of the fact that Miles' mother was "supposedly" the wolf who killed his parents, but Miles does not believe that (and honestly, neither do I). Unfortunately, Cade freezes up whenever the topic arises, so it is not something that they have ever discussed.
So they are on the run, and trying to deal with the poison that they were injected with that not only took away Miles' ability to shift but did crazy things to Cade's magic. BUT...these guys are not giving up and little by little, things are beginning to possibly look up. No spoilers, but let's just say that some things are happening that might change the course that they thought they were on.
Of course, this book ends with an AWFUL cliffhanger, but by this time, I am completely invested. Seriously, I already went and bought the next book. I HAVE to find out how they are going to deal and recover from the latest blow to their lives.
August 31, 2024
Sooo annoyed by the ending. But I truly should've known it was too good to be true. And I did think that for a long time and then just didn't think about it. It was stated throughout though that "just didn't want to talk about it."
Regardless, it extremely frustrated me. I thought we were going to have a story with characters that wouldn't have that drama. Was suuper disappointing.
Cade and Miles had built so much. And it was so refreshing not to have that drama. It is not the fault of the child for what the parents may or may not have done. In fact, they didn't even kill them.
So much of this series just seems like drama for drama's sake.
Finally Cade and Miles were working together, doing great together, talking and building something. And then this. Beyond disappointed.
Magic and pack aspects were fun here. I... Well, another review I'm going to come back to cuz I'm just too frustrated by the ending. Cannot emphasize disappointment enough (even if it wasn't surprising).
Quick review of audiobook and will try my best to add more soon since it does deserve more. Greg Tremblay did a fantastic job as narrator, always bringing characters to life. I'll probably continue with the next but... Meh. This book had me interested for a bit where I thought it could be going but didn't. Dunno how many are intended for the series either.
Regardless, it extremely frustrated me. I thought we were going to have a story with characters that wouldn't have that drama. Was suuper disappointing.
Cade and Miles had built so much. And it was so refreshing not to have that drama. It is not the fault of the child for what the parents may or may not have done. In fact, they didn't even kill them.
So much of this series just seems like drama for drama's sake.
Finally Cade and Miles were working together, doing great together, talking and building something. And then this. Beyond disappointed.
Magic and pack aspects were fun here. I... Well, another review I'm going to come back to cuz I'm just too frustrated by the ending. Cannot emphasize disappointment enough (even if it wasn't surprising).
Quick review of audiobook and will try my best to add more soon since it does deserve more. Greg Tremblay did a fantastic job as narrator, always bringing characters to life. I'll probably continue with the next but... Meh. This book had me interested for a bit where I thought it could be going but didn't. Dunno how many are intended for the series either.
March 3, 2024
Immersive and riveting, Kai Butler gives us yet another strong series set in a fictional community in the California coast.
In this second book of the trilogy, Miles and Cade start out being on the run from House Bartlett - but soon rival House Morrison is after them, too. In frantic, action packed chapters, the couple race from one tenuous urban refuge to another. To make matters worse, a new drug on the streets is amping werewolves into hyper-aggressive thugs, so in addition to two mage houses out for their blood, they also need to fend off the random territorial supernatural creature.
After being caught by House Morrison, Cade is given an ultimatum that would force him to give up Miles. But as they snoop around the Morrison compound, Miles and Cade discover a troubling secret that effects both mages and werewolves.
Ultimately, Miles and Cade regroup to focus on the third BBEG of the series: drug kingpin Declan Monroe, whose dealings with House Bartlett threatens the very existence of werewolves and is somehow poisoning the wellsprings of magic, the ley lines.
Very well done. I’m ordering hard copies of the books for my home library, which already has a section for Butler’s San Amaro series (two full sets, actually - one set signed by the author).
In this second book of the trilogy, Miles and Cade start out being on the run from House Bartlett - but soon rival House Morrison is after them, too. In frantic, action packed chapters, the couple race from one tenuous urban refuge to another. To make matters worse, a new drug on the streets is amping werewolves into hyper-aggressive thugs, so in addition to two mage houses out for their blood, they also need to fend off the random territorial supernatural creature.
After being caught by House Morrison, Cade is given an ultimatum that would force him to give up Miles. But as they snoop around the Morrison compound, Miles and Cade discover a troubling secret that effects both mages and werewolves.
Ultimately, Miles and Cade regroup to focus on the third BBEG of the series: drug kingpin Declan Monroe, whose dealings with House Bartlett threatens the very existence of werewolves and is somehow poisoning the wellsprings of magic, the ley lines.
Very well done. I’m ordering hard copies of the books for my home library, which already has a section for Butler’s San Amaro series (two full sets, actually - one set signed by the author).
February 22, 2024
Second in series (The Empty Throne Trilogy), must be read in order. Paranormal urban fantasy. Established couple. Close proximity. Single POV. Miles and Cade are on the run and can’t seem to catch a break, while fleeing House Bartlett they have to come up with a plan to survive. They finally determine that to return Cade to his rightful place they need to determine how the drugs harming wolves is tied in with overthrowing Cade, which requires Miles to confront Declan. This whole story from page one is filled with constant action, tension from constant danger, and the lingering secrets still being kept. There is so much more relationship development between Cade and Miles in this book, glimpses of their bond and feelings growing, but their shared past hangs over them constantly waiting to ruin it all. I enjoyed seeing Miles come into his own, and that Cade accepts the equality of their relationship, both men willing to sacrifice in order to save the other. If the series continues getting better, the last book should be a wild ride and I can’t wait.
May 30, 2024
I listened to the audio version of this book.
Kai Butler's Empty Throne trilogy offers the reader/listener a full meal in their stories. Characters are developed entwined together as lovers or friends or pack mate or enemy. Kai brings the events from the first book into this story seamlessly as Cade and Miles find their way through a deadly maze of Machiavellian machinations. Horrific drugs, post trauma loss and pain, powerful mages, and a deadly poison infecting magical lay lines all work together to make this book in the series one that's hard to put down. I listened pretty much straight through until I had to sleep! Greg Tremblay is a wonderful narrator for this series.
I only wish the third book in the series was already available since I've become engaged with the story and the outcome for Cade's and Mile's relationship. Will they let love or lies win? Will House Bartlett survive Leon and Declan's machinations? What about the nascent San Amaro pack? What about the other mage houses?
Kai Butler's Empty Throne trilogy offers the reader/listener a full meal in their stories. Characters are developed entwined together as lovers or friends or pack mate or enemy. Kai brings the events from the first book into this story seamlessly as Cade and Miles find their way through a deadly maze of Machiavellian machinations. Horrific drugs, post trauma loss and pain, powerful mages, and a deadly poison infecting magical lay lines all work together to make this book in the series one that's hard to put down. I listened pretty much straight through until I had to sleep! Greg Tremblay is a wonderful narrator for this series.
I only wish the third book in the series was already available since I've become engaged with the story and the outcome for Cade's and Mile's relationship. Will they let love or lies win? Will House Bartlett survive Leon and Declan's machinations? What about the nascent San Amaro pack? What about the other mage houses?
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