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Rise of the Iliri #4
Inseparable
DISASTER! THE BLACK BLADES DISBANDED, AN ALLIANCE IN TURMOIL...
The intersecting worlds of the iliri, grauori, and men collide when an alliance is declared, and the humans renege. In the midst of offering an olive branch to other races, they seem secretly hellbent on destroying them all—and they begin by putting Sal on trial and disbanding the Black Blades. Auryn Hadley offers up deft commentary on racism between communities—melded with fantastical action-adventure in a world at war, and passionate erotic romance in this fourth installment of the Rise of the Iliri.
True to its title, in Inseparable, on the world of Ogun, it’s the connections between all beings—human and otherwise—that will save or destroy them.
Her recent mission a success, fearless (and irresistibly arousing) iliri warrior Lieutenant Salryc Luxx gets thanks in the form of imprisonment by the Conglomerate of Free Citizens. Sal’s not even sure what she’s accused of, but she suspects it’s the color of her pale skin—not her actions—that’s really on trial.
Kinetry, an old comrade and ally of the Black Blades now forced to hold Sal, warns her that a rash of anti-iliri sentiment is sweeping Parliament and the military. In fact, it seems men don’t care for any race but their own. But Kinetry doesn’t know that the King of Anglia is on his way to the military stronghold. Nor does he know the King is bringing with him thousands of grauori soldiers, members of a race of formerly hidden human-like wolves whose hunting and battle skills are unmatched.
If the King arrives before Sal’s trial is resolved, he’ll learn something in the courtroom that may destroy all hope of the intended alliance. Torn between truth and treason, Sal must navigate political sensitivities to hold the three races together. And just when she seems to get somewhere, the Conglomeration disbands the Black Blades.
The most psychologically complex and emotionally stirring of the Iliri tales, Inseparable delves deep into relationships: the connections between the iliri, grauori, and humans in increasingly uncertain and dangerous times, and the connections between comrades and lovers in all their grit and glory. Everyone knows Sal is irresistible to males, that’s part of what makes her such a brilliant assassin, but it’s her unbreakable devotion to her tribe that keep her alive—and the steamy interactions with her mates—old, new, and surprising—that keep the pages turning.
528 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 7, 2016
473 people are currently reading
430 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 156 reviews
July 2, 2023
re-read ...
well, I think I should stop re-reading now ... There are things that get annoying ... But it's also just so gooooood, damn.
"She's an assassin who was born a slave. She's been beaten, probably raped, nearly killed a few times, and has slaughtered more people than we can count, right?"
"Yeah?" Rayna nodded at her again.
"And her body is covered in stories of love. Above all else, they focus on that because it's what keeps them going." 🖤
Sometimes I wonder how many hours there are in a day on this planet... There is so much action in part four and yet there is enough time to focus on the relationships among the characters. Simply wonderful.
On the one hand, the differences between the humans of Anglia and those of the Conglomerate are the focus regarding their attitude towards the iliri. Opposed are the irresolvable prejudices and the absolute acceptance of the ways of Sal and her Black Blades.
On the other hand, this part is dedicated to the emotions of Zep. With Zep, it took me a few run-throughs, but I think after the fourth read or so, I like him. Having my fixation so reduced to Jase, makes it hard to accept another man in Sal's life. Maybe it's because this reverse-harem development is one of the slower ones. But unlike Blaec, Zep puts Sal first and for that he gets a lot of sympathy points.
The Zep-Sal - Sal-Jase triad is hot either way and is one of my favorite scenes.
And Sal ... yes she is becoming MORE. Just like Zep always describes it. She takes on the role of a leader seemingly effortlessly, rallying more and more people around her who willingly follow her, and who accept it when she completely controls them.
A fantastic design of the plot and character drawings that makes you addicted to more. The minor repeats (such as the description of the smell of steel and the like) can be forgiven.
well, I think I should stop re-reading now ... There are things that get annoying ... But it's also just so gooooood, damn.
"She's an assassin who was born a slave. She's been beaten, probably raped, nearly killed a few times, and has slaughtered more people than we can count, right?"
"Yeah?" Rayna nodded at her again.
"And her body is covered in stories of love. Above all else, they focus on that because it's what keeps them going." 🖤
Sometimes I wonder how many hours there are in a day on this planet... There is so much action in part four and yet there is enough time to focus on the relationships among the characters. Simply wonderful.
On the one hand, the differences between the humans of Anglia and those of the Conglomerate are the focus regarding their attitude towards the iliri. Opposed are the irresolvable prejudices and the absolute acceptance of the ways of Sal and her Black Blades.
On the other hand, this part is dedicated to the emotions of Zep. With Zep, it took me a few run-throughs, but I think after the fourth read or so, I like him. Having my fixation so reduced to Jase, makes it hard to accept another man in Sal's life. Maybe it's because this reverse-harem development is one of the slower ones. But unlike Blaec, Zep puts Sal first and for that he gets a lot of sympathy points.
The Zep-Sal - Sal-Jase triad is hot either way and is one of my favorite scenes.
And Sal ... yes she is becoming MORE. Just like Zep always describes it. She takes on the role of a leader seemingly effortlessly, rallying more and more people around her who willingly follow her, and who accept it when she completely controls them.
A fantastic design of the plot and character drawings that makes you addicted to more. The minor repeats (such as the description of the smell of steel and the like) can be forgiven.
July 26, 2022
REREAD: JULY 2022
Rise of the Iliri is one of my favourite series, and I'm doing a full reread after the author released updated versions of all the books.
Inseparable is the fourth book (of 11) in the Rise of the Iliri series by Auryn Hadley, where the last of her kind Kaisae Salryc Luxx a conscript turned assassin, turned ruler, is working to liberate her people.
In this book, the Black Blades have returned to the CFC and disbanded, but now Sal is doing what she can to have them stay together. When all of this blows up, Sal is stuck in the middle and must do what she can to help her kind and the ones who look to her for help.
This was another great addition to this series, and I liked it a lot! Inseparable has a lot to live up to after book three, but I thought the plot was really good. It’s much more political than the books that came before it, but it's fun to see Sal claim her place as the Kaisae in the CFC and show them what she's really all about.
I enjoyed the characters, too. We get more of Zep in this book and meet lots of new characters. I also love Sal’s relationship with Dom.
I will say that some ideas have become repetitive now - the constant need to explain to new characters the ways of the iliri and their lifestyle, and instant military promotions, etc., but I still enjoy it all and find myself wanting to keep reading late into the night.
Rise of the Iliri is one of my favourite series, and I'm doing a full reread after the author released updated versions of all the books.
Inseparable is the fourth book (of 11) in the Rise of the Iliri series by Auryn Hadley, where the last of her kind Kaisae Salryc Luxx a conscript turned assassin, turned ruler, is working to liberate her people.
In this book, the Black Blades have returned to the CFC and disbanded, but now Sal is doing what she can to have them stay together. When all of this blows up, Sal is stuck in the middle and must do what she can to help her kind and the ones who look to her for help.
This was another great addition to this series, and I liked it a lot! Inseparable has a lot to live up to after book three, but I thought the plot was really good. It’s much more political than the books that came before it, but it's fun to see Sal claim her place as the Kaisae in the CFC and show them what she's really all about.
I enjoyed the characters, too. We get more of Zep in this book and meet lots of new characters. I also love Sal’s relationship with Dom.
I will say that some ideas have become repetitive now - the constant need to explain to new characters the ways of the iliri and their lifestyle, and instant military promotions, etc., but I still enjoy it all and find myself wanting to keep reading late into the night.
July 8, 2023
2nd reread and let me just say. I absolutely love Cyno he is my favorite out of all the men. But Godsdamn Zep is trying to steal that spot. The only reason Cyno has kept first is because of how he brings them all together. He loves Zep as much as Sal.
I love this series so much! I can't get enough of the blades.
I love this series so much! I can't get enough of the blades.
April 30, 2018
Wonderful action, sweet romance combined with more than a hint of cannibalism! Once again the author has given me a wonderful fantasy, with the romance spiced with angst between Sal's men. The evil empire gets a taste of the future, and the gorgeous pups save the day. Fantasy does not get much better than this and I can't see how the next book can top it. It is amazing.
May 27, 2019
1:48am is when I finished this book, and I only started it this (unless I’ve slept it’s still the same day) this morning.
Wow. This book is crazy! CRAZY! So much goes on here there’s seriously too much. But the Conglomerate sucks. They really let their hatred lead even though Sal and the Blades did all kinds of work for them.
I kept wondering if we’d get more people for the relationship aspect since this is book 4 and supposedly a reverse harem and she’s only had 2 for so long. Well in this book she adds another and I’m so surprised at who it is.
Some minor issues like there were quite some typos.
Overall though I enjoy the series and I know it’s not complete and I’m trying not to devour it, but this series is awesome. I’m enjoying reading it quite a bit.
Wow. This book is crazy! CRAZY! So much goes on here there’s seriously too much. But the Conglomerate sucks. They really let their hatred lead even though Sal and the Blades did all kinds of work for them.
I kept wondering if we’d get more people for the relationship aspect since this is book 4 and supposedly a reverse harem and she’s only had 2 for so long. Well in this book she adds another and I’m so surprised at who it is.
Some minor issues like there were quite some typos.
Overall though I enjoy the series and I know it’s not complete and I’m trying not to devour it, but this series is awesome. I’m enjoying reading it quite a bit.
February 22, 2021
Amazing
The series just gets better. A lot happens in this book. Zep makes me love him more and more, though Cyno will always be my first love. There are a whole bunch of great moments in this book. I found myself smiling and laughing g out loud a lot. There is one moment near the end that had my heart in my throat, but it sure worked out in an unexpected way and I loved it. Sal and crew just keep getting better.
The series just gets better. A lot happens in this book. Zep makes me love him more and more, though Cyno will always be my first love. There are a whole bunch of great moments in this book. I found myself smiling and laughing g out loud a lot. There is one moment near the end that had my heart in my throat, but it sure worked out in an unexpected way and I loved it. Sal and crew just keep getting better.
September 23, 2022
Third reread of this amazing series! It's sweeping, beautiful, painful and flat-out wonderful. As with any long series, there are things that I would change or events that I wish didn't happen 0 but overall, this is a solid series that I would recommend again and again.
April 15, 2020
I get very lost in the world of the Iliri every time I read one of the books in this series. Some ideas have become repetitive now - the constant need to explain to new characters the ways of the iliri and the harem, and instant promotions, etc. but I still enjoy it all and it makes sense as those things are so very different from what they have known. I look forward to the rest of the series very much.
3.75
3.75
July 14, 2018
“It starts with a secret...”
I thought this series would be a quick read... I was so wrong. There is so much detail, so many characters and places to pay attention to, new words to remember, signals and call signs to give attention to. Battles and training are described and referred to at later times. Relationships and alliances are described, detailed, etc. then put into the background to be remembered and used later. This series is a work of art in the way that Hadley sets everything up to have a purpose. An alliance formed in book one doesn’t make sense until book five, a favor owed and a life saved in book two doesn’t come back up until book four. So much care and thought went into the planning of these books, that much is clear.
Warning: They are long. But totally worth the read.
Book 4: Inseparable
Well, the title of this book sort of gives what happens away. The Blades are disbanded after Sal is courtmartialed, each of the members reassigned to a different elite unit. Dom and the Anglians are in the Conglomerate for peace talks/alliance meetings, but those meetings are still weeks away and the Blades need to obey until then... to a point. It’s a great start to another great book by Hadley for sure.
And in this story we see again the extensive detail into battles, trainings, movement, politics, etc. Dom is, perhaps, a political strategist and genius, and he is just one example. The characters that Hadley has created and developed in these books show the time and planning that had to go into her writing. They are meticulous and cunning. Their thoughts and beliefs stretch across books and hundreds of pages. These are the reasons that I will be finishing the series despite some of the short comings in this particular book.
I can see what Hadley is doing in regards to the whole Anhor/Denour thing, slowly building the ranks of the pack. It will be interesting to see where that goes and if it starts to feel forced. It’s already turning that way and I have to say that it’s a little disappointing when it all seemed to flow so well before. I’ll be keeping an eye on that in future books for sure.
I will say that there were more gaps of time in this book than the others. Time is a weakness in this series for sure... a lot happens in shorts amounts, then suddenly the story is months into the future with no explanation as to how it got there. Sometimes the details get to be a little much, once you’ve read one battle you can pretty much determine the rest... skipping over some scenes helped me keep my sanity.
Sal finally finally becomes the powerful leader we all know she is meant to be. This comes with some amazing revelations about her power too. Anglia flips the Conglomerate the bird, and it is so epic. Jase and Zep have the best bromance, and the relationship between Zep and Sal? Yeah it’s epic. The nuvauri are another awesome group that bring so much more to the story, just like the Anglians and grauori were. Hadley is really amazing and making large groups fit seamlessly into the storyline (watch the Devil Dogs in this story!).
As a little bonus, Sal finally gets a female friend that she can talk with about her men. It’s awesome.
My ongoing review for this entire series as I read is at kyyzillathebookdevourer.blogspot.com
I thought this series would be a quick read... I was so wrong. There is so much detail, so many characters and places to pay attention to, new words to remember, signals and call signs to give attention to. Battles and training are described and referred to at later times. Relationships and alliances are described, detailed, etc. then put into the background to be remembered and used later. This series is a work of art in the way that Hadley sets everything up to have a purpose. An alliance formed in book one doesn’t make sense until book five, a favor owed and a life saved in book two doesn’t come back up until book four. So much care and thought went into the planning of these books, that much is clear.
Warning: They are long. But totally worth the read.
Book 4: Inseparable
Well, the title of this book sort of gives what happens away. The Blades are disbanded after Sal is courtmartialed, each of the members reassigned to a different elite unit. Dom and the Anglians are in the Conglomerate for peace talks/alliance meetings, but those meetings are still weeks away and the Blades need to obey until then... to a point. It’s a great start to another great book by Hadley for sure.
And in this story we see again the extensive detail into battles, trainings, movement, politics, etc. Dom is, perhaps, a political strategist and genius, and he is just one example. The characters that Hadley has created and developed in these books show the time and planning that had to go into her writing. They are meticulous and cunning. Their thoughts and beliefs stretch across books and hundreds of pages. These are the reasons that I will be finishing the series despite some of the short comings in this particular book.
I can see what Hadley is doing in regards to the whole Anhor/Denour thing, slowly building the ranks of the pack. It will be interesting to see where that goes and if it starts to feel forced. It’s already turning that way and I have to say that it’s a little disappointing when it all seemed to flow so well before. I’ll be keeping an eye on that in future books for sure.
I will say that there were more gaps of time in this book than the others. Time is a weakness in this series for sure... a lot happens in shorts amounts, then suddenly the story is months into the future with no explanation as to how it got there. Sometimes the details get to be a little much, once you’ve read one battle you can pretty much determine the rest... skipping over some scenes helped me keep my sanity.
Sal finally finally becomes the powerful leader we all know she is meant to be. This comes with some amazing revelations about her power too. Anglia flips the Conglomerate the bird, and it is so epic. Jase and Zep have the best bromance, and the relationship between Zep and Sal? Yeah it’s epic. The nuvauri are another awesome group that bring so much more to the story, just like the Anglians and grauori were. Hadley is really amazing and making large groups fit seamlessly into the storyline (watch the Devil Dogs in this story!).
As a little bonus, Sal finally gets a female friend that she can talk with about her men. It’s awesome.
My ongoing review for this entire series as I read is at kyyzillathebookdevourer.blogspot.com
June 15, 2023
3 stars because it’s good. It’s a transition book so I’m assuming the next one has amazing potential. Lots of (political) badassness
Ranting about who gets added to the love fest. It’s obvious in the beginning of the book so it’s not really a spoiler just my feelings about it 🙃
The book is fresh and I’m feeling like it’s time for a good ole rant.
Unpopular opinion: loveee the plot. Not really feeling the romance. Nothing is stable. So it takes away from the whole story. I thought it was great with just blaec and jase. Honestly I loveeeee jase. zep is annoying me. To the point where I might just say goodbye to this series bc I skimmed everything that had to do with him and it looks like he’s not goin anywhere. I’m actually pissed he’s still alive in this series. Harsh? I know. He used to be one of my favie favs until they had to ruin the good friendship dynamic and awkwardly bring him in.
Seriously?
Why can’t a girl just have that one stable friendship?? I think seeing him stay as a friend would’ve been more impressive. If you were going to bring him into this bullshit, why did it have to feel so awkward, cringy and make him so envious. There was no build up it was just “oh he’s my brother” to “oh now he’s my forever mate”. In literally a single chapter. Weird.
On top of everything that mentions him being the polar opposite of hot and steamy, he’s so overly protective, and seems extremely jealous. SOMETHING ABOUT IT JUST CREEPS ME OUT. IDK.
I don’t think I’ve ever went from loving to disliking a character so fast . I might have emotional whip lash. I miss jase and blaec.
There is my rant/tantrum. Sorry if anyone loves zep. Maybe he won’t creep me out or maybe jase will get a lil more love in the next book who knows.
Ranting about who gets added to the love fest. It’s obvious in the beginning of the book so it’s not really a spoiler just my feelings about it 🙃
The book is fresh and I’m feeling like it’s time for a good ole rant.
Unpopular opinion: loveee the plot. Not really feeling the romance. Nothing is stable. So it takes away from the whole story. I thought it was great with just blaec and jase. Honestly I loveeeee jase. zep is annoying me. To the point where I might just say goodbye to this series bc I skimmed everything that had to do with him and it looks like he’s not goin anywhere. I’m actually pissed he’s still alive in this series. Harsh? I know. He used to be one of my favie favs until they had to ruin the good friendship dynamic and awkwardly bring him in.
Seriously?
Why can’t a girl just have that one stable friendship?? I think seeing him stay as a friend would’ve been more impressive. If you were going to bring him into this bullshit, why did it have to feel so awkward, cringy and make him so envious. There was no build up it was just “oh he’s my brother” to “oh now he’s my forever mate”. In literally a single chapter. Weird.
On top of everything that mentions him being the polar opposite of hot and steamy, he’s so overly protective, and seems extremely jealous. SOMETHING ABOUT IT JUST CREEPS ME OUT. IDK.
I don’t think I’ve ever went from loving to disliking a character so fast . I might have emotional whip lash. I miss jase and blaec.
There is my rant/tantrum. Sorry if anyone loves zep. Maybe he won’t creep me out or maybe jase will get a lil more love in the next book who knows.
November 22, 2018
The Black Blades are being disbanded, but now Sal will do what she can to have them stay together and be part of Anglia's citizens. When all of this blows up Sal is stuck in the middle and must do what she can to help her kind and the ones who look to her for help.
This was another great addition to this series, and I really liked it a lot! I thought the plot was really good, and I enjoyed the characters as well.
I can't wait for more now, this series if very interesting, and enjoyable.
This was another great addition to this series, and I really liked it a lot! I thought the plot was really good, and I enjoyed the characters as well.
I can't wait for more now, this series if very interesting, and enjoyable.
December 25, 2019
This was great
I love Auryn's writing.
This book has more politicking and less action than the first three in the series, but the characters are brilliant and I'm excited by the direction the story is heading.
Very highly recommended.
I love Auryn's writing.
This book has more politicking and less action than the first three in the series, but the characters are brilliant and I'm excited by the direction the story is heading.
Very highly recommended.
July 24, 2022
Two weeks and everything changes. The negotiations will be crucial for Sal and the blades and all illiri. We also see how her bond with one of the guys is slowly transforming. Her nose could not be fooled, but the man's mind proved his largest obstacle. Giving in just made all pieces fit and they'll feven more determined to fight to keep their love and their pack.
June 19, 2020
Fascinating
Sal's story isn't over but she finally starts getting her Tanour to open his eyes. What an amazing adventure. Despite a lot of politics, I am fascinated by the Iliri thinking process. There were so many ups and downs and twists. I loved it and didn't want to put this story down.
Sal's story isn't over but she finally starts getting her Tanour to open his eyes. What an amazing adventure. Despite a lot of politics, I am fascinated by the Iliri thinking process. There were so many ups and downs and twists. I loved it and didn't want to put this story down.
January 11, 2019
An absolutely brilliant book. The characters, relationships (romantic, friends, families, allies and enemies) and world are incredibly well developed. One of the best series I’ve read in a long time. This book deserves more stars than I can give it
March 22, 2024
I 100% recommend this series
I 100% recommend this series
This series is absolutely incredible and I'm kinda glad it was already finished when I started because immediately after finishing a book I had to start the next.
The story is beautiful and runs the whole spectrum of emotions. I absolutely adore the characters. I'm going to miss reading about them but the ending was one of the best I've ever read.
Start to finish this story is amazing and the amount of detail is wonderful.
I 100% recommend this series
This series is absolutely incredible and I'm kinda glad it was already finished when I started because immediately after finishing a book I had to start the next.
The story is beautiful and runs the whole spectrum of emotions. I absolutely adore the characters. I'm going to miss reading about them but the ending was one of the best I've ever read.
Start to finish this story is amazing and the amount of detail is wonderful.
June 18, 2018
“To them, all that mattered was being together. Love wasn't something they could ever see as shameful”
I'm conflicted.
While the writing improves and evolves with each book and the plot is moving along quite nicely (although I would really like a map included in the books), some things stay still and remain the same.
The characters sure know how to make a scene and make it a big and dramatic one. I love watching them play politics, they are always so imposing and shit. And smart, damn they are smart. The fighting scenes are also very fascinating to read about.
But their separate relations are bothering me. First, and this is starting to get ridiculous, when will we learn anything about the individual Blades? Shift? Razor? I'm not even mentioning the new guys.
Then there is the harem. I finally figured out what was bothering me - the placing. The rating of everyone - first, second, third. I get putting Cyno first, he's like an alpha and her soul mate, but don't rate the others, count them as equals.
On the plus side, I like that we finally got a Taunor. He's not exactly who I expected, but not bad at all. He's fitting right in with everyone else and I like the dynamic Sal now has with her guys.
But Blaec. Damn. They are constantly excluding him from everything and he's barely in the book at all.
“They love her enough to live every second with her, completely." He took a deep breath, staring glassy-eyed at the three of them. "I love her enough not to.”
He's gonna die, isn't he? This is what it's all about, right? Trying to distance us from his character. I'm onto you and I don't like what you're doing. I want more of Blaec.
In other news, I really liked Dom in this one. He's finally starting to act like a ruler and not a stupid horny fool. This is the King I'd like to read more of.
So I don't really know how to feel. As a whole, I love the book. My overall impression of it is definitely a good one. But when I start looking at the little things, that is when I start to waver and frown. I hope it all manages to smooth out in the next installment.
October 24, 2018
I read books 1-8 in quick succession so am giving a review on the series, to date.
The world building is excellent. Humans colonize a distant world, low on metals and with indigenous life. Thousands of years later, the resulting society is one of basically medieval tech, but with ceramics and resin replacing metals. Very clever extrapolation and made more interesting with the integration of the indigenous life.
The series is both a Sci-Fi/Paranormal-esque epic adventure and a romance. The heat level of the romance rises throughout the series, not hitting 'erotic' levels until about Book 7 and starting relatively low, though all well written at the heat levels they're at. I mention this because this switch/transition may surprise some readers. At times, the balance between the epic adventure and the romance is off a bit, throwing off the pacing of the overall story, but not so much as to want you to stop reading - it remains engaging throughout.
The plot, and plot twists, of the epic adventure are well done, creating a well-crafted story that could stand alone, even without the romance. There are some quibbles around how the military is organized, specifically around unit sizes and organization, but unless you have a background in the area or read a lot of military fantasy/historicals you probably won't notice. The fight scenes are well done, even if all in the contexts of small skirmishes.
Overall, I'm thoroughly enjoying this series. It's based in a wonderfully crafted world and includes some amazing elements. It's only some nits about how these elements are put together that keeps this from getting 5 stars.
The world building is excellent. Humans colonize a distant world, low on metals and with indigenous life. Thousands of years later, the resulting society is one of basically medieval tech, but with ceramics and resin replacing metals. Very clever extrapolation and made more interesting with the integration of the indigenous life.
The series is both a Sci-Fi/Paranormal-esque epic adventure and a romance. The heat level of the romance rises throughout the series, not hitting 'erotic' levels until about Book 7 and starting relatively low, though all well written at the heat levels they're at. I mention this because this switch/transition may surprise some readers. At times, the balance between the epic adventure and the romance is off a bit, throwing off the pacing of the overall story, but not so much as to want you to stop reading - it remains engaging throughout.
The plot, and plot twists, of the epic adventure are well done, creating a well-crafted story that could stand alone, even without the romance. There are some quibbles around how the military is organized, specifically around unit sizes and organization, but unless you have a background in the area or read a lot of military fantasy/historicals you probably won't notice. The fight scenes are well done, even if all in the contexts of small skirmishes.
Overall, I'm thoroughly enjoying this series. It's based in a wonderfully crafted world and includes some amazing elements. It's only some nits about how these elements are put together that keeps this from getting 5 stars.
October 23, 2018
First of all, I have to say that I've been reading non-stop since I started book 1. This series is compelling and interesting AND I can see why so many people love these books. But now that I've finished book 4, I can say that while I do love the over-all story (esp the fight/action stuff), I am not a fan of the romance.
This may be just me, but I don't get any happy feels. In fact, the romantic relationships --- their scenes and conversations --- somehow just leave me sad and depressed. I like some of the things that are happening relationship-wise, but I don't like some of the others.
I find it hard to read these books even if the plot is so good. Why? Mainly bec I feel like none of them will live long enough. Ugh. Their future seems so bleak and uncertain, I don't see how a HEA is possible. I always feel like Death is looming over these people and I keep getting a Titanic-the-iceberg-is-about-to-hit feeling. And I don't like it.
So I think I'm just going to stop right here bec reading this series is making me feel so blue and I don't want to feel this heavy anymore. I read bec I want the HEA, the happy feels. I'm not a fan of romances where one of my MC's dies or gets terminally ill. No one in this series has died (YET!) but I can't help but think that someone will and I don't want to read anymore
This may be just me, but I don't get any happy feels. In fact, the romantic relationships --- their scenes and conversations --- somehow just leave me sad and depressed. I like some of the things that are happening relationship-wise, but I don't like some of the others.
I find it hard to read these books even if the plot is so good. Why? Mainly bec I feel like none of them will live long enough. Ugh. Their future seems so bleak and uncertain, I don't see how a HEA is possible. I always feel like Death is looming over these people and I keep getting a Titanic-the-iceberg-is-about-to-hit feeling. And I don't like it.
So I think I'm just going to stop right here bec reading this series is making me feel so blue and I don't want to feel this heavy anymore. I read bec I want the HEA, the happy feels. I'm not a fan of romances where one of my MC's dies or gets terminally ill. No one in this series has died (YET!) but I can't help but think that someone will and I don't want to read anymore
July 16, 2018
I'm a huge fan of this series! This book was missing something for me. It wasn't the action, it wasn't the story, but something just seemed off.
And I think it's LT (Blaec) and Sal's relationship. I'm a fan of LT and I guess their relationship is something different for me. I love RH so that's not it. I think it's the fact that it's not a personal relationship? It's more of a professional one. I don't think LT or Sal really care about each other. I think Sal thinks of LT as replaceable and so does Cyno (Jase) and Zep. This book gave us a relationship between Zep and Sal. And in my opinion Zep means more to Sal than LT. It's partly Blaec's fault but it's also Sal's. The way the other two men talk about Blaec often irritate me. It's like they trash talk him and know that he's not that important. Sal would be able to live if Blaec died but if the other two did, she wouldn't be able to handle it. To me, I just feel tremendous sadness for Blaec. I hope the relationship changes because I don't know how much more of this I can handle....
The spelling errors and grammar mistakes are still prominent.
Overall: 4/5
And I think it's LT (Blaec) and Sal's relationship. I'm a fan of LT and I guess their relationship is something different for me. I love RH so that's not it. I think it's the fact that it's not a personal relationship? It's more of a professional one. I don't think LT or Sal really care about each other. I think Sal thinks of LT as replaceable and so does Cyno (Jase) and Zep. This book gave us a relationship between Zep and Sal. And in my opinion Zep means more to Sal than LT. It's partly Blaec's fault but it's also Sal's. The way the other two men talk about Blaec often irritate me. It's like they trash talk him and know that he's not that important. Sal would be able to live if Blaec died but if the other two did, she wouldn't be able to handle it. To me, I just feel tremendous sadness for Blaec. I hope the relationship changes because I don't know how much more of this I can handle....
The spelling errors and grammar mistakes are still prominent.
Overall: 4/5
July 15, 2022
Ratings - completed series:
#1 BloodLust: ★★★★☆
#2 Instinctual: ★★★★☆
#3 Defiance: ★★★★☆
#4 Inseparable (this book): ★★★★☆
#5 Tenacity: ★★★★★
#6 Resilience: ★★★★★
#7 Dissent: ★★★★★
#8 Upheaval: ★★★★★
#9 Havoc: ★★★★★
#10 Risen: ★★★★★
#11 Hope: ★★★☆☆
#1 BloodLust: ★★★★☆
#2 Instinctual: ★★★★☆
#3 Defiance: ★★★★☆
#4 Inseparable (this book): ★★★★☆
#5 Tenacity: ★★★★★
#6 Resilience: ★★★★★
#7 Dissent: ★★★★★
#8 Upheaval: ★★★★★
#9 Havoc: ★★★★★
#10 Risen: ★★★★★
#11 Hope: ★★★☆☆
April 19, 2018
OH.MY.GODS!!! This book delivered on everything. I can't even begin to describe how much I loved it. Even when I was crying my eyes out I loved it.
This author has a gift with words and story building. She has me hooked as if her words is my drug of choice.
With each book she builds her world into something amazing. The character development, the world building, the emotions she manages to evoke is simply stunning!
This series is definitely one I will reread time and time again. So hurry up and experience for yourself what I'm talking about. I promise you won't regret it. 💖
This author has a gift with words and story building. She has me hooked as if her words is my drug of choice.
With each book she builds her world into something amazing. The character development, the world building, the emotions she manages to evoke is simply stunning!
This series is definitely one I will reread time and time again. So hurry up and experience for yourself what I'm talking about. I promise you won't regret it. 💖
June 16, 2021
So much happens in Inseparable. Sal’s relationships continue to grow and become more complex. Dom and Anglia show Sal what life can really be. I love how complex these stories are. You have not only Sal’s story, by secondary stories with the Dogs, the Shields, and Dom. What seems a minor plot point in earlier books, comes to have major significance. I love the world that Hadley has created!
October 9, 2022
I am running out of ways to describe this series! I can't use the same words because they get better with each book. These characters are more then just the pages of the book they come from. I am totally invested in what happens to each of them. This is true epic fantasy at it finest and I am dying to know where it goes.
August 5, 2019
Overall I liked it but it was annoying how the characters and thereby the readers were constantly being told about how the iliri are different and not human; it's the fourth book in the series, we get it.
September 25, 2024
I think perhaps because I’m reading this series in one go it dragged a bit compared to the others but there was lots of relationship developments, I just am not sure if I care about the side characters
August 7, 2019
Yaaasssss so much yes!
I freaking love this book! I cry my eyeballs out and laugh and enjoy. Things are coming together nicely. Sigh, so much love for this series!
I freaking love this book! I cry my eyeballs out and laugh and enjoy. Things are coming together nicely. Sigh, so much love for this series!
January 2, 2025
Please note that this review is for the SERIES, not the individual book.
Ok. I don't know where to begin. I want to say ALL the things because this series is all kinds of amazing. There is a not zero chance that my excitement may get away with me, so please excuse any seemingly random bits of rambling.
First off, this is an 11 book completed series that absolutely MUST be read in order as a series. You won't make heads nor tails of it if you try to pick and choose. This series is a little similar to the Five Fangs series by Mary Ann Weir. While there is a main character and her harem, this one also has a lot of communal storylines and relationships. It's one of the few 3rd person PoV that I have truly enjoyed, as it gives a better perspective on the entire experience. And this IS an experience.
A.H. Hadley is a master wordsmith. I've read most of her bibliography and enjoyed all of it. I was a bit skeptical about this series as 11 books are a heckuva commitment. I've been it recommended everywhere though, so I finally decided to give it a shot, and I wish I could personally thank every person who suggested it.
Her world building is a skill that most authors could learn from. From the rich history of the land and people to the customs and motives of the people, I was constantly taking information in and assimilating it from one book to the next. The true talent, though, is the fact that I never once felt overwhelmed by it.
The foundation is beautifully laid for the complex web of plotlines that permeates this story. There are plots within plots and plans without plans. Rise of the Iliri is a masterwork of the uncertain. I THOUGHT I knew what I was getting into. At numerous times while reading, I THOUGHT I knew what to expect. I was unprepared, and I loved every moment.
I do disagree with many of my fellow readers, however. This series was recommended as a reverse harem romance, but I'm just not sold on that. Yes, romance plays a part in the story arc. Yes, there are multiple men in a relationship with one woman. So, I guess that technically, they are correct. But it is so much more. The author labels it as "a complete epic science-fantasy story." I personally think it's more of a space opera. There is romance, but also anger and hatred, good verses evil, overcoming adversity, and amazing action sequences, plus plenty more that I can't find the words for. (But for the smut hounds, there are ample shenanigans which are relatively detailed and beautifully written)
The characters are never two dimensional. They start out fully fleshed out, but as the story progresses, they change. Traits become deeper. Thoughts become richer. They grow - as individuals as well as the groups. Especially Sal, the female main character. She has an entire evolution/metamorphosis arc that is without compare. I have never read anything quite like it.
If I could, I would rate this series as an 8 out of 5 stars. It exceeded my expectations in every way. Yes, it is a time commitment, but in all honesty, I didn't realize it. I started reading in book 1 and it consumed my attention until I closed book 11.
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Please stop reading here if spoilers in the form of content warnings are a deal breaker for you. This series has some heavy s#!t in it that I wasn't really prepared for, so I'm going to let you in on it. Mental health matters.
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Expect graphic vi0|ence, gore, a metric crap ton of unaliving, grief & loss, past SA for several characters, extreme prejudice & discrimination as well as humiliation and degradation (and not the kinky fun kind.) The FMC was conscripted into the military from her owner's home. Slavery is all through this story, so be prepared. And this is the one that kinda frakked me up - one of the MCs dies. Usually, I pass on books where that is in the content warning, however, in this instance, it becomes a jumping off point for the continuing progression of the story. I would encourage you to not let that particular TW prevent you from an otherwise truly remarkable reading experience.
Ok. I don't know where to begin. I want to say ALL the things because this series is all kinds of amazing. There is a not zero chance that my excitement may get away with me, so please excuse any seemingly random bits of rambling.
First off, this is an 11 book completed series that absolutely MUST be read in order as a series. You won't make heads nor tails of it if you try to pick and choose. This series is a little similar to the Five Fangs series by Mary Ann Weir. While there is a main character and her harem, this one also has a lot of communal storylines and relationships. It's one of the few 3rd person PoV that I have truly enjoyed, as it gives a better perspective on the entire experience. And this IS an experience.
A.H. Hadley is a master wordsmith. I've read most of her bibliography and enjoyed all of it. I was a bit skeptical about this series as 11 books are a heckuva commitment. I've been it recommended everywhere though, so I finally decided to give it a shot, and I wish I could personally thank every person who suggested it.
Her world building is a skill that most authors could learn from. From the rich history of the land and people to the customs and motives of the people, I was constantly taking information in and assimilating it from one book to the next. The true talent, though, is the fact that I never once felt overwhelmed by it.
The foundation is beautifully laid for the complex web of plotlines that permeates this story. There are plots within plots and plans without plans. Rise of the Iliri is a masterwork of the uncertain. I THOUGHT I knew what I was getting into. At numerous times while reading, I THOUGHT I knew what to expect. I was unprepared, and I loved every moment.
I do disagree with many of my fellow readers, however. This series was recommended as a reverse harem romance, but I'm just not sold on that. Yes, romance plays a part in the story arc. Yes, there are multiple men in a relationship with one woman. So, I guess that technically, they are correct. But it is so much more. The author labels it as "a complete epic science-fantasy story." I personally think it's more of a space opera. There is romance, but also anger and hatred, good verses evil, overcoming adversity, and amazing action sequences, plus plenty more that I can't find the words for. (But for the smut hounds, there are ample shenanigans which are relatively detailed and beautifully written)
The characters are never two dimensional. They start out fully fleshed out, but as the story progresses, they change. Traits become deeper. Thoughts become richer. They grow - as individuals as well as the groups. Especially Sal, the female main character. She has an entire evolution/metamorphosis arc that is without compare. I have never read anything quite like it.
If I could, I would rate this series as an 8 out of 5 stars. It exceeded my expectations in every way. Yes, it is a time commitment, but in all honesty, I didn't realize it. I started reading in book 1 and it consumed my attention until I closed book 11.
**********
Please stop reading here if spoilers in the form of content warnings are a deal breaker for you. This series has some heavy s#!t in it that I wasn't really prepared for, so I'm going to let you in on it. Mental health matters.
**********
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
Expect graphic vi0|ence, gore, a metric crap ton of unaliving, grief & loss, past SA for several characters, extreme prejudice & discrimination as well as humiliation and degradation (and not the kinky fun kind.) The FMC was conscripted into the military from her owner's home. Slavery is all through this story, so be prepared. And this is the one that kinda frakked me up - one of the MCs dies. Usually, I pass on books where that is in the content warning, however, in this instance, it becomes a jumping off point for the continuing progression of the story. I would encourage you to not let that particular TW prevent you from an otherwise truly remarkable reading experience.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 6, 2023
MISS HADLEY!!!!
You did not have to us so dirty in the end of this book (thankfully you rectified it but still….. side eye).
The absolute hysteria that you provoked in me and the amount of tears that I shed is not acceptable.
Please, graciously I ask you do not put me through that emotional turmoil again.
Anyways,
I was rooting for Zep since the beginning but never really saw it coming to fruition so imagine my surprise when he opened his heart up to Sal and became the third “husband”.
Ugh they are pure love and light together and then his relationship with Jase on top of everything makes this pairing so perfect.
Like I love Blaec and I know he had an important part to play in her becoming who she is, but he needs to play a more active role in my opinion… I’m honestly just starting to feel bad for the dude because he’s never part of the group thing, he’s always just lurking on the outside; and even though the love is still there between the two of them it’s starting to feel more distanced.
Also why do all his sexy scenes fade to black and the others don’t??? Odd.
Big political developments in this book and things keep getting more interesting and in depth.
We start to see sides of the iliri that we didn’t really get to see before - I.e the bonding during sex or the eating of the humans… yeah I know that sounds super disturbing but it really just works for them y’a know?
Also Sal being drunk off human meat was kinda hilariously cute. I love a vulnerable Sal.
Things are just getting better for the iliri population and I’m so glad that Sal is making such a difference for her people.
She’s truly become a queen in her own right but the most badass one you’ve ever seen.
She is such a fierce warrior and a force to be reckoned with that you can’t help but love it when people underestimate her.
She is something truly admiring.
Again I’m loving the slow build of the harem.
It’s keeping me really invested in the series and I’m starting to become really attached to the men and the relationships she has with each of them (hence why I literally cried my eyes out when some shit went down with our new member).
The love they have for Sal and the love she gives each of them is so unique and unconditional.
She’s accepting her place as Kaisae and I can’t wait to see who she sets her sights on next!!!
I really want Arctic but she did mention in this book that maybe that wouldn’t be her next choice…
Anyways I’m happy to be content with the 3 hubbys for now and see how that goes before she starts scouting for a new harem member.
This story is getting more complex and I’m getting used to the fact that the world in which things are taking place is growing and sometimes my mind can’t keep up while reading but I’m just going with the flow and enjoying it as much as I can with what I do understand.
Another action-packed and emotionally-testing book in the series and I’m eager to see what Sal and the gang gets up to in the fifth instalment!
~4 stars~
You did not have to us so dirty in the end of this book (thankfully you rectified it but still….. side eye).
The absolute hysteria that you provoked in me and the amount of tears that I shed is not acceptable.
Please, graciously I ask you do not put me through that emotional turmoil again.
Anyways,
I was rooting for Zep since the beginning but never really saw it coming to fruition so imagine my surprise when he opened his heart up to Sal and became the third “husband”.
Ugh they are pure love and light together and then his relationship with Jase on top of everything makes this pairing so perfect.
Like I love Blaec and I know he had an important part to play in her becoming who she is, but he needs to play a more active role in my opinion… I’m honestly just starting to feel bad for the dude because he’s never part of the group thing, he’s always just lurking on the outside; and even though the love is still there between the two of them it’s starting to feel more distanced.
Also why do all his sexy scenes fade to black and the others don’t??? Odd.
Big political developments in this book and things keep getting more interesting and in depth.
We start to see sides of the iliri that we didn’t really get to see before - I.e the bonding during sex or the eating of the humans… yeah I know that sounds super disturbing but it really just works for them y’a know?
Also Sal being drunk off human meat was kinda hilariously cute. I love a vulnerable Sal.
Things are just getting better for the iliri population and I’m so glad that Sal is making such a difference for her people.
She’s truly become a queen in her own right but the most badass one you’ve ever seen.
She is such a fierce warrior and a force to be reckoned with that you can’t help but love it when people underestimate her.
She is something truly admiring.
Again I’m loving the slow build of the harem.
It’s keeping me really invested in the series and I’m starting to become really attached to the men and the relationships she has with each of them (hence why I literally cried my eyes out when some shit went down with our new member).
The love they have for Sal and the love she gives each of them is so unique and unconditional.
She’s accepting her place as Kaisae and I can’t wait to see who she sets her sights on next!!!
I really want Arctic but she did mention in this book that maybe that wouldn’t be her next choice…
Anyways I’m happy to be content with the 3 hubbys for now and see how that goes before she starts scouting for a new harem member.
This story is getting more complex and I’m getting used to the fact that the world in which things are taking place is growing and sometimes my mind can’t keep up while reading but I’m just going with the flow and enjoying it as much as I can with what I do understand.
Another action-packed and emotionally-testing book in the series and I’m eager to see what Sal and the gang gets up to in the fifth instalment!
~4 stars~
May 28, 2021
5 She Had No Idea It Was Impossible Stars
Inseparable is the fourth book in the Rise of the Iliri series by Auryn Hadley.
Particularly a favorite of mine, officially. While part of me still feels off about the whole “the Terran got the kill” thing, and it’s a continuous ache waiting for the other shoe to drop after this lie. However, so many truly awaited and reverent outcomes finally come to pass. For the Iliri. For the Blades. For the Anglians. That’s not even taking into account the grauori and Viraenova, and how desolated and hopeless they felt for many of the great things that transpired in these pages.
Sal, of course, must shock us once again, and again, and again, etc. What she will potentially be capable of is a complete and utter mystery. Given the power she now holds, the abilities she’s stumbled upon here, and the inevitable surprises in store for her future.
Zep was honestly tied for my favorite aspect of this book. His evolution, not only in his own character development, but in that of his relationship with Sal (and Jase) was influential to the story as a whole. It cannot be ignored that Blaec and Jase, while they felt more fitting as Dernor and Ahnor instead of the opposite, did not feel whole just by themselves. Zep perfectly fills the space in left in Sal’s heart. I will honestly be surprised if she takes a fourth. Maybe in the future when Blaec is more comfortable with their needs, and his own?
I feel so terribly for the allies left behind in the Conglomerate, having to straddle the line of respect for their comrades/friends that now serve Anglia and that of their own safety within the Free Citizens. Comparatively it’s entirely too easy to decide which nation I would wish to live in, and under the rule of. Take out all the overwhelming abilities, merely focus on the respect freely given to all citizens and the way in which they carry themselves and their concern for the people they lead? Is that even a choice, truly? Ayati.
It feels terribly human to disregard the benefits, the good in something (someone), not only that but to relentlessly smother it in oppression, but then turn around and refuse to allow anyone to find anything within that which you do not want remarkable. Let your trash be someone’s treasure.
Inseparable is the fourth book in the Rise of the Iliri series by Auryn Hadley.
Particularly a favorite of mine, officially. While part of me still feels off about the whole “the Terran got the kill” thing, and it’s a continuous ache waiting for the other shoe to drop after this lie. However, so many truly awaited and reverent outcomes finally come to pass. For the Iliri. For the Blades. For the Anglians. That’s not even taking into account the grauori and Viraenova, and how desolated and hopeless they felt for many of the great things that transpired in these pages.
Sal, of course, must shock us once again, and again, and again, etc. What she will potentially be capable of is a complete and utter mystery. Given the power she now holds, the abilities she’s stumbled upon here, and the inevitable surprises in store for her future.
Zep was honestly tied for my favorite aspect of this book. His evolution, not only in his own character development, but in that of his relationship with Sal (and Jase) was influential to the story as a whole. It cannot be ignored that Blaec and Jase, while they felt more fitting as Dernor and Ahnor instead of the opposite, did not feel whole just by themselves. Zep perfectly fills the space in left in Sal’s heart. I will honestly be surprised if she takes a fourth. Maybe in the future when Blaec is more comfortable with their needs, and his own?
I feel so terribly for the allies left behind in the Conglomerate, having to straddle the line of respect for their comrades/friends that now serve Anglia and that of their own safety within the Free Citizens. Comparatively it’s entirely too easy to decide which nation I would wish to live in, and under the rule of. Take out all the overwhelming abilities, merely focus on the respect freely given to all citizens and the way in which they carry themselves and their concern for the people they lead? Is that even a choice, truly? Ayati.
It feels terribly human to disregard the benefits, the good in something (someone), not only that but to relentlessly smother it in oppression, but then turn around and refuse to allow anyone to find anything within that which you do not want remarkable. Let your trash be someone’s treasure.
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