He was sent to conquer. She was promised to another. When love defies duty and blood is spilled, only exile—and ancient magic—can offer a way forward.
For an Exile’s Heart is the second book in the Ancient Songs series. All of which can be read as standalone romances.
Overview
Adair is the third son of the Chief. His father has sent him to claim the lands of Dalriada, where his two older brothers have failed. There he finds Bradana, Dalriada’s chief’s daughter. They fall in love despite Bradena being betrothed to another.
When Adair challenges and kills Bradana’s betrothed for not letting her back out of the wedding, things take a horrible turn. They are forced to flee to the wilderness. When all seems lost, Alba provides.
Positives
Another well-written Scottish romance. For an Exile’s Heart is full of romance, mysterious landscapes, and battles to defend their love and survive. On this journey, Adair and Bradana discover who they are to themselves and to each other.
I love how this series entwines folklore into these stories and saves the characters, both mentally and physically. There was a point where I stopped and almost didn’t finish because everything was so bleak. But I remembered how in For a Warrior’s Heart, just when there was no hope, something magical happened. So I kept going, and sure enough, on the very next page was some magical intervention.
Negatives
For an Exile’s Heart does have some dark themes, so it can be a bit difficult to get through. You have to hold out a little longer than I’m used to. That also leads to my biggest issue. There isn’t much between the climax and the conclusion. Once you hit the climax, all you get is the conclusion, so there is no unwinding to embrace the few resolutions that are provided.
Recommendations
If you are looking for a light, cozy read, this isn’t it. While I am fine with the darker themes, the ending pace is rough. I have to give it three stars. I just wish I could get a little more wrap-up and answers to some questions.
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