House of Strife (Poisoned Houses #4) in Reverse Harem Readers

Aug 31, 2019 Jennifer G rated it really liked it

They are the Councilor's children, the Elite. Untouchable. But if what Declan said, that's not true. The time for games is over. Someone is targeting the High Houses. Someone with power. Caitlyn Lonette has been raised to rule, to be calculating and to conduct herself at all times in a manner befitting the First House. However, she wants more. She is tired of living for her father and grandmother. She is tired of a silent, unemotional existence. She is now part of a team, a new family and it's b They are the Councilor's children, the Elite. Untouchable. But if what Declan said, that's not true. The time for games is over. Someone is targeting the High Houses. Someone with power. Caitlyn Lonette has been raised to rule, to be calculating and to conduct herself at all times in a manner befitting the First House. However, she wants more. She is tired of living for her father and grandmother. She is tired of a silent, unemotional existence. She is now part of a team, a new family and it's being threatened. It's time she takes charge of her life. Time for her and her men to figure out what is going on before it's too late.

I don't feel that I can do justice to this book. Lyn Forester is a master at world-building, a master wordsmith. There are so many layers involved in this book that the stacked cities can't even begin to compete. Caitlyn is coming into her own as a person. Her self-reflection and honesty are admirable. She's adjusting to her desires with the guys and is handling each man and each relationship individually. She is embroiled in a deadly investigation better suited for professionals. She is doing all of this while attending classes and continuing her duties as the Lonette heir.

The writing is subtly complex. There is such depth. There are nuances to every scene. Caitlyn proved herself to be a brilliant player in the city this time. She is equally comfortable as the demi-Councilor or sneaking about in the insides of the city. I was impressed by her throughout but especially at the bank and at the club. Nikola is also remarkable. His intelligence and his expertise on such a wide range of matters and topics are sexy to me. He may be my favorite. I hope my regard is not poorly placed. Felix and Connor are such a perfect balance to one another. Although they are each desirable separately, I can't imagine not having them both. Energy and calm, precision and spontaneity. They are two sides of the same coin and offer the best of all options. It was nice to get to know Felix and address certain issues and time spent with Connor was perfect. Declan didn't have his best showing. Fear and jealousy are not good looks on anyone. This is made so much more complicated by his absence. Whether we want it to or not, the world keeps on moving without us. There is work to be done here. Of course, these are the main characters but there are so many vital minor characters: Skittles, Myrrine, their families, and several scene players. Each of these minor characters is fully fleshed out and play important roles. Skittles is pure resourcefulness and cunning. Each outing with her is an adventure and a lesson. Myrrine offered some of the most sage advice in the book. They may not get lots of page-time but they make the most of what they get. No one stands alone in this book. Each character is interwoven with the others and then woven into multiple storylines within the major plot. Like I said, layered.

The overall read is fantastic. The political intrigue and the dangerous game Caitlyn and the boys are playing casts tension over every page. Yet there's still time for emotional and physical advancement between Caitlyn, Connor, Felix, and Nikola. I have to say my favorite scene in the entire book was the game of Traboshan. Absolutely brilliant. I won't say a word about it for fear of spoiling anything but I could talk about it for hours. So much happens and yet there is still so much unknown. It's maddening. In the end, however, no matter what else is going on, I felt that this was Caitlyn's book. She has grown so much. I see her combining her life lessons in Lonette Manor with the rebellious disc-bike racer. Caitlyn, Sprinkles, and Spark are all beginning to merge into the woman she will become. And she will be a force. She will be an intellectual equal to Nikola, able to control Felix, be a perfect counterpart for Connor and able to challenge Declan. Mr. Black, Mr. Blue, and Mr. White won't know what hit them and Grandmother and Father will have to accept The Lonette. ...more

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Sep 16, 2019 Aimee rated it it was amazing

This series just continues its awesomeness with each book! So, much crazy going on that Caitlyn has to keep track of and figure out her future. She is torn between wanting her freedom, wanting her guys, and keeping her position where she might actually get to make a difference. More answers revealed and yet even more questions. Love this series and can't wait for more! ...more

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Jan 12, 2020 Amanda Morgan rated it it was amazing

Fantastic

I seriously love this series. There are numerous times where I can help but laugh out loud. The characters are amazing and I love all the guys! I can’t wait to read the next book!

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