Shelia R. (MamaDragon3) -
Helpful Score: 5
I guess I'm the sole voice of dissent so far, as I was somewhat disappointed with this book. I had been looking forward to this storyline for so long! It was an opportunity to see how a mainstream author and series handled a gay relationship. As a reader of m/m books, I didn't want J. R. Ward to chicken out on the emotional and physical aspects of a gay romance, but I think she did just that.
Like many of Ward's other books, the side characters were almost as dominant as the person the book is supposed to be about. I felt there was almost too much of Trez, Assail, and Xcor and not enough of Qhuinn and Blay. It was difficult to wade through some of the side stories to get to the Qhuinn and Blay parts, and there certainly were not enough of those for me.
As for the relationship between Qhuinn and Blay, it seemed very neat. Sure, there were difficulties to overcome, but they resolved themselves predictably. Other than the first time Qhuinn and Blay are together sexually (where they destroy the room), there is not enough detail about the sex. In Ward's other books in this series, the sex scenes were always smoking hot--and I feel she held back a lot with the sex scenes between Qhuinn and Blay.
I also was not a fan of having to wait until the very end of the book for the two of them to get their heads out of their arses and get together for real. The "wedding" scene at the end was too rushed, and not well thought out, in my opinion.
Overall, I liked it, but it could have been so much better. I am still a dedicated fan of the series, but this book was not my favorite.
Like many of Ward's other books, the side characters were almost as dominant as the person the book is supposed to be about. I felt there was almost too much of Trez, Assail, and Xcor and not enough of Qhuinn and Blay. It was difficult to wade through some of the side stories to get to the Qhuinn and Blay parts, and there certainly were not enough of those for me.
As for the relationship between Qhuinn and Blay, it seemed very neat. Sure, there were difficulties to overcome, but they resolved themselves predictably. Other than the first time Qhuinn and Blay are together sexually (where they destroy the room), there is not enough detail about the sex. In Ward's other books in this series, the sex scenes were always smoking hot--and I feel she held back a lot with the sex scenes between Qhuinn and Blay.
I also was not a fan of having to wait until the very end of the book for the two of them to get their heads out of their arses and get together for real. The "wedding" scene at the end was too rushed, and not well thought out, in my opinion.
Overall, I liked it, but it could have been so much better. I am still a dedicated fan of the series, but this book was not my favorite.
Robin M. (robinmy) -
Helpful Score: 4
Qhuinn and Blaylock have been friends since childhood; growing up together, going through their transitions together, and fighting with the Brotherhood together. But when Blay admitted his feelings for Qhuinn, they started to drift apart. After years of unrequited love, Blay found another relationship and tried to move on. Now Qhuinn has realized his feelings for Blay. But his impending fatherhood, emotional baggage and Blay's relationship with Qhuinn's cousin is standing in the way.
With all of the build up of Blay and Qhuinn's relationship over the last five books, I wasn't sure if Ward could pull off a believable relationship for them. Well, I was far from disappointed. Ward writes a beautiful and intense love story that I couldn't put down. Blay is a guy who has been rejected once, and doesn't know if he can risk his heart again. Showing Qhuinn's backstory helps us understand his character and shows us how he has evolved since he was introduced early in the series.
As usual with the Black Dagger Brotherhood series, there is lots going on. Layla, who is having difficulties with her pregnancy, now shows independence and confidence. In the past I was never a big fan of this character, but I've really come to appreciate her and want to see more of her and her fascination with Xcor. Xcor is another character in this series that is growing on me. He's not a cut and dried villain. I can't wait to see if Layla can turn him around.
Assail is the intriguing druglord who was introduced in the last book. While trying to stay far away from the Glymera and their politics, he finds that a human woman is spying on him and wants to know why. This part of the book was almost as interesting as the Qhuinn/Blay story. We also spend time with Trez and iAm, the shadow brothers, and find that since birth Trez has been destined to mate with his Queen's oldest daughter and is not dealing well with the situation. Another plot we will see more of in the future.
This is the eleventh book in the Black Dagger Brotherhood series. Ward does not give a lot of background information on how we've got to this point in the series. So, if you're interested in jumping into these books, start with book 1. I would have liked to have seen a subplot revisiting some of the past characters in the series, but it still doesn't stop me from giving this book 5 Stars.
With all of the build up of Blay and Qhuinn's relationship over the last five books, I wasn't sure if Ward could pull off a believable relationship for them. Well, I was far from disappointed. Ward writes a beautiful and intense love story that I couldn't put down. Blay is a guy who has been rejected once, and doesn't know if he can risk his heart again. Showing Qhuinn's backstory helps us understand his character and shows us how he has evolved since he was introduced early in the series.
As usual with the Black Dagger Brotherhood series, there is lots going on. Layla, who is having difficulties with her pregnancy, now shows independence and confidence. In the past I was never a big fan of this character, but I've really come to appreciate her and want to see more of her and her fascination with Xcor. Xcor is another character in this series that is growing on me. He's not a cut and dried villain. I can't wait to see if Layla can turn him around.
Assail is the intriguing druglord who was introduced in the last book. While trying to stay far away from the Glymera and their politics, he finds that a human woman is spying on him and wants to know why. This part of the book was almost as interesting as the Qhuinn/Blay story. We also spend time with Trez and iAm, the shadow brothers, and find that since birth Trez has been destined to mate with his Queen's oldest daughter and is not dealing well with the situation. Another plot we will see more of in the future.
This is the eleventh book in the Black Dagger Brotherhood series. Ward does not give a lot of background information on how we've got to this point in the series. So, if you're interested in jumping into these books, start with book 1. I would have liked to have seen a subplot revisiting some of the past characters in the series, but it still doesn't stop me from giving this book 5 Stars.
Cindy D. (ladybird) reviewed Lover at Last (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Bk 11) on + 44 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
Wow, did not disappoint! Only the Warden could have done this story justice and made this non-traditional relationship work as the focus for a non-erotic genre book, and come off as totally hot too! Everyone reading this series wants Qhuinn and Blay to get their HEA. But I wondered how it would work as the focus of a full length novel. I had no reservations and complete confidence that Ms. Ward would make it work. And she did...in spades! Anyone with concerns about reading this book should put them away immediately. Especially if they are a fan of the series. The Warden keeps true to the characters, their past, their history together, (their total hotness!), and I loved seeing clips of all my boys (some more than others). Also is a key book in the developing storyline with Assail and Xcor. I can't decide who to like or dislike!
Alice J. (ASJ) -
Helpful Score: 2
I really enjoyed the book. Was it too long?yup, did I care about all the new characters? not all. so what did I like about the book? I love the brotherhood and how they have each others back, I like the caring for the young, the intimacy between mates. Well written love seens. Main characters are still interesting and you want to know what is going on in their lives. Looking forward to the next one.
Valerie (IDOLFAN) -
Helpful Score: 1
Awesome!!! Love it!! Lots of things going on in this one. It's Great.
Helpful Score: 1
Perfect title for the long awaited resolution to the Qhuinn/Blaylock love story. Unfortunately their story was constantly interrupted by other stories and subplots: Xcor and Layla (whose story at least marginally ties into Qhuinn and Blay), Assail and Sola (why do we care about them?), Trez and his sex addiction and Solange. There were some side bits with Beth and Wrath (separately) that hopefully is leading somewhere interesting.
A very satisfying resolution to the primary story. But overall, Ward's style becomes tiring. Constant introduction of new characters and distraction from the main plot of the book, glorification of drug dealers and killers, and never any progress made with the situation of Lessers and now the Band of Bastards.
She ends this book "and they lived happily ever after". It seems like a fitting place to quit the series (at least for this reader). Although there's a tantalizing internet gossip about the next book being called The King and supposedly about Wrath and Beth. Difficult to pass up a book about favorite past characters.
A very satisfying resolution to the primary story. But overall, Ward's style becomes tiring. Constant introduction of new characters and distraction from the main plot of the book, glorification of drug dealers and killers, and never any progress made with the situation of Lessers and now the Band of Bastards.
She ends this book "and they lived happily ever after". It seems like a fitting place to quit the series (at least for this reader). Although there's a tantalizing internet gossip about the next book being called The King and supposedly about Wrath and Beth. Difficult to pass up a book about favorite past characters.
Helpful Score: 1
I am a huge fan of JR Ward and this instalment did not dissapoint. There isn't as many sub-plots this time as in the other books.
Helpful Score: 1
Blay and Qhuinn's story was wonderful. The rest of the book was a mess. There were over 14 different POV's in the book and it just was not easy to keep interested in any one storyline (except Qhuay) when so many other stories were being juggled. Thank goodness she recognized that she needs more character development before she can move to a new couple. If she hadn't this would have been my last BDB book....
Trish B. (tbecker) reviewed Lover at Last (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Bk 11) on + 34 more book reviews
JR Ward knows how to weave that magical & addictive tale!
First, I admit Qhuinn has held my heart since the first mention of him, back in the days of clubbing with Blay and John. Now, Blay and Qhuinn have grown into a handsome, respected adult men amongst the brotherhood. Blay is dating Saxton still, and Qhuinn is having a 'young' with Layla the chosen. The events that follow lead us to the two warriors' hearts that have struggled to come to grips for so long, and finally choosing the happy ending meant to be theirs.
I couldn't read the novel fast enough. I love getting thrown into the BDB world. Its a whirlwind that sucks me in.
First, I admit Qhuinn has held my heart since the first mention of him, back in the days of clubbing with Blay and John. Now, Blay and Qhuinn have grown into a handsome, respected adult men amongst the brotherhood. Blay is dating Saxton still, and Qhuinn is having a 'young' with Layla the chosen. The events that follow lead us to the two warriors' hearts that have struggled to come to grips for so long, and finally choosing the happy ending meant to be theirs.
I couldn't read the novel fast enough. I love getting thrown into the BDB world. Its a whirlwind that sucks me in.
Alaina H. (laina42107) reviewed Lover at Last (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Bk 11) on + 115 more book reviews
Wasn't sure how I would feel about this one. A story about two male lovers is not something I've ever read about before. Never the less it's was another great story from J.R. Ward. Blay and Qhuinns love story was beautiful and organic. More good twists and lots of upcoming stories for Layla and Xcor, Assail and Marisol, Trez and Selena, and the continuation of the Brotherhood and their Shellans. Can't wait for the next book!
Laurie C. (softrbreeze) reviewed Lover at Last (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Bk 11) on + 27 more book reviews
I loved Blay and Quinne's story and would have given this a 5/5 except for the TOO numerous POVs, which made it very frustrating at times. I know the "lessers" give the Brotherhood their reason for existing, but to be honest, I would like to read a lot less about them then the Brothers.
Elisabeth P. (BetsyP) reviewed Lover at Last (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Bk 11) on + 566 more book reviews
Paranormal romance/ thriller (not so much) by JR Ward, #12 in the Black Dagger Brotherhood series. This is the first in the series to feature a m/m romance. Blay and Qhuinn have been best friends for years. Blay has yearned for Qhuinn forever, while Qhuinn has had more lovers than he can count, both male and female.
I've read lots of erotica, and have never cared for m/m romances. But, I have to say this is one of the best romances I've ever read. The sex scenes are smokin' hot. Really, this is how every love story should end: supportive friends and a loving accepting family.
The rest of the book is kind of choppy, jumping from narratives of a bunch of different characters. This is a little distracting. But, there are several really intriguing sub-plots going on. I will be very interested to see what happens. Will Leyla and Xcor get together? Or will he be executed for treason? What will happen to Sora the human thief? Will Assail find her in time? And what the heck is going to happen with Qhuinn's brother?
Loved the book, I even teared up in a couple of places. Can't wait for the next.
I've read lots of erotica, and have never cared for m/m romances. But, I have to say this is one of the best romances I've ever read. The sex scenes are smokin' hot. Really, this is how every love story should end: supportive friends and a loving accepting family.
The rest of the book is kind of choppy, jumping from narratives of a bunch of different characters. This is a little distracting. But, there are several really intriguing sub-plots going on. I will be very interested to see what happens. Will Leyla and Xcor get together? Or will he be executed for treason? What will happen to Sora the human thief? Will Assail find her in time? And what the heck is going to happen with Qhuinn's brother?
Loved the book, I even teared up in a couple of places. Can't wait for the next.
Harriet H. (southern2005) reviewed Lover at Last (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Bk 11) on + 31 more book reviews
Well, I got the book read parts and found that it was not up to what I have read from the author in the past..it is different...so keep and open mind..
Veronica S. (snowkitty) -
I've only read 1/3 of this book, but I wanted to put my two cents in and maybe add to it when I finish the book. There were a few books she wrote I didn't care for and to be honest I thought this would be another one because it's about a homosexual relationship between men. Didn't think I would find it interesting; not my 'cup of tea'. Just the opposite is true. For me this is the best one so far. Ward's writing really pops in this book, more so than usual. I can actually feel what the character's feel. So far two thumbs up and 5 stars.
ETA: Best book ever. My favorite in the series, and although I've never re-read a book, I'm seriously thinking that this will be my first.
ETA: Best book ever. My favorite in the series, and although I've never re-read a book, I'm seriously thinking that this will be my first.
Karen B. (Jitterbug3) reviewed Lover at Last (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Bk 11) on + 198 more book reviews
Finally--I couldn't wait for this book and Blay/Quinn to have their story. I was very impressed--both with their story and the emotions that had to be revealed by both of them. I thought Ward handled their romance and relationship as well as she handled most of the others (the ones I did like).
I do wish, as I have for the last several books, that more of the original brothers had a larger role in the stories and not as many new characters. I truly hope that when we get to the actual battle for the throne that it focuses on the brotherhood and their defense of their king and not so much on the group led by Xcor.
But overall, very happy with this book. The last two have really brought the series back to the excellence of the first 3-4 books!
I do wish, as I have for the last several books, that more of the original brothers had a larger role in the stories and not as many new characters. I truly hope that when we get to the actual battle for the throne that it focuses on the brotherhood and their defense of their king and not so much on the group led by Xcor.
But overall, very happy with this book. The last two have really brought the series back to the excellence of the first 3-4 books!
Karen B. (Jitterbug3) reviewed Lover at Last (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Bk 11) on + 198 more book reviews
Loved, loved, loved this book! So happy to finally get the Blay and Qhuinn story. What I loved most about it (other than a happy ending) was the fact that so many of the brothers were included in both the fighting and the personal parts. I do like the fact that the story has shifted to the battle for the 'king' and not so much on the lessers. I am guessing that the next story will be Throe and Layla so I am very curious to see how that plays out.
With the last one (Tohr and Autumn) and with this one, it looks like Ward is back on track, Hope it continues!!!
With the last one (Tohr and Autumn) and with this one, it looks like Ward is back on track, Hope it continues!!!
Heather D. (daylily77) reviewed Lover at Last (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Bk 11) on + 236 more book reviews
Another winning book from a most excellent author. Love the brothers! So much going on, so many places to go with the next book! I just can't wait! They don't come out fast enough! Ward remains one of my favorite authors in this genre! I put away other books to read hers.
Sally S. (bobsall) reviewed Lover at Last (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Bk 11) on + 151 more book reviews
great book
Danielle R. (danielleraybuck) reviewed Lover at Last (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Bk 11) on + 76 more book reviews
All her books are amazing!
Glenna G. (keno) reviewed Lover at Last (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Bk 11) on + 866 more book reviews
on my kindle can't wait to read it! she is one of my favorite writers- a must have!
