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Order and Chaos #2
City of Mirth and Malice
Some debts are not so easily repaid—or forgiven.
Nicolai Attano finally has everything he’s ever wanted: control over the Iron Saint Railway, safety for his family, and not a single rival syndicate to stand in his way. Never could he have imagined he’d want anything more than power—not until Camilla Marchese.
Six weeks have passed since the disaster on the train and his wife was kidnapped, but to get her back, he’ll need help. Nico struggles to work with a city poisoned against him and is instead forced to seek the aid of a disreputable black-market dealer. A simple deal to ensure her rescue, Nico doesn’t think twice. A bargain is struck, and the cost is higher than ever. The collateral? His life.
Meanwhile, Camilla fights to gain control over her newfound powers as the alchemist in charge of her confinement puts her to the test. Forced to free what she’s held so close, the only light in this hellish prison is the hope to see her family again, and the husband who stole her heart. Three trials and three chances to find the source of her Chaos and use it to save herself, if it doesn’t destroy her first.
Cracks in the city draw lines between loyalties, and time is running out until everything comes crashing down. Return to Lynchaven in this action-packed and swoony conclusion of Nico and Milla’s story.
Nicolai Attano finally has everything he’s ever wanted: control over the Iron Saint Railway, safety for his family, and not a single rival syndicate to stand in his way. Never could he have imagined he’d want anything more than power—not until Camilla Marchese.
Six weeks have passed since the disaster on the train and his wife was kidnapped, but to get her back, he’ll need help. Nico struggles to work with a city poisoned against him and is instead forced to seek the aid of a disreputable black-market dealer. A simple deal to ensure her rescue, Nico doesn’t think twice. A bargain is struck, and the cost is higher than ever. The collateral? His life.
Meanwhile, Camilla fights to gain control over her newfound powers as the alchemist in charge of her confinement puts her to the test. Forced to free what she’s held so close, the only light in this hellish prison is the hope to see her family again, and the husband who stole her heart. Three trials and three chances to find the source of her Chaos and use it to save herself, if it doesn’t destroy her first.
Cracks in the city draw lines between loyalties, and time is running out until everything comes crashing down. Return to Lynchaven in this action-packed and swoony conclusion of Nico and Milla’s story.
495 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 1, 2024
About the author
Alexis L. Menard
5 books842 followersAlexis is a registered nurse based out of Louisiana where she lives with her husband, toddler, and two oversized dogs. She enjoys long walks through the Renaissance Fair, reading smutty romance into the dark hours of the night, and wine nights with her "Finer Things Club." She hopes to enrich the lives of her readers with worlds they can both escape in and take with them long after the final chapter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 534 reviews
May 6, 2024
This was a perfect way to wrap Camilla and Nicolai's story. Also, so much better written compared to the first book.
When it comes to the House of Bane and Blood, I had found myself confused and thought the plot execution was weak. City of Mirth and Malice was much refined in writing. It was also easy to follow through mostly but the whole Order and Chaos thing towards the end still managed to lose my attention which is why it's a four star read for me rather than five.
I loved the Peaky Blinders vibes again and also the whole prison storyline was very Azkaban vibes imo 👀 I lived for the romance between Camilla and Nicolai, both of them have grown so much as individuals and a couple. It was endearing. Their chemistry, angst and spice was perfect!! Ngl I swooned every time Nicolai talked about her as "my wife." It just never gets old. The only thing that annoyed me a bit was the amount of interruptions made by Luther whenever the two were about to have a spicy moment. It was just dragged for nothing imo 😅
The ending left me satisfied. Would definitely recommend
~•~•~
So excited for this sequel. Also, loving the artwork but most importantly the recap cause my goldfish memory would have struggled 🫣
When it comes to the House of Bane and Blood, I had found myself confused and thought the plot execution was weak. City of Mirth and Malice was much refined in writing. It was also easy to follow through mostly but the whole Order and Chaos thing towards the end still managed to lose my attention which is why it's a four star read for me rather than five.
I loved the Peaky Blinders vibes again and also the whole prison storyline was very Azkaban vibes imo 👀 I lived for the romance between Camilla and Nicolai, both of them have grown so much as individuals and a couple. It was endearing. Their chemistry, angst and spice was perfect!! Ngl I swooned every time Nicolai talked about her as "my wife." It just never gets old. The only thing that annoyed me a bit was the amount of interruptions made by Luther whenever the two were about to have a spicy moment. It was just dragged for nothing imo 😅
The ending left me satisfied. Would definitely recommend
~•~•~
So excited for this sequel. Also, loving the artwork but most importantly the recap cause my goldfish memory would have struggled 🫣
May 15, 2024
"For what it's worth, I'm really glad you're here. I didn't think..." She swallowed hard. "I didn't think I'd ever see you again."
The pain of the truth filled her eyes, and the force of it nearly broke my heart. "There isn't a hell in the void that could keep me from you, Milla. I'd suffer for a lifetime to have another moment on your lips."
My honesty was rewarded with the tip of her chin, lifting her mouth to mine in a way that felt like an offering. "I think we have a moment to spare.
EXCUSE ME WHILE I FANGIRL LIKE IT'S 2008 BUT THIS WAS JUST TOO BEAUTIFUL!!1!111!!!!!!
I can't believe this duology is already over, like...what do you mean there's only two books? I'd read a thousand novels about Nico and Milla, and I'd probably read a few about the rest of the Attano family, as well, included a prequel about Nonna, if there ever was one!
Seriously, I can see myself hyping this series up till the end of my days, because it was just that good.
The sequel picks up immediately after the first installment and it doesn't give you the chance to take a breath. I found myself overwhelmed by what was going on because there was literally always something
Those last 6 chapters were pure torture and I'm going to send Alexis Menard my hairdresser bill when I'll have to cover the grays her evil mind procured me.
I unfortunately didn't adore it as much as the first book and I think it's because it was really packed with endless adrenalinic scenes that sometimes were too fast-paced and that gave the fluffiest moments an edge I wasn't expecting.
I also didn't really vibe with how the truth about Milla's true nature was handled. I have so many questionssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss???????????????????????????
On the other hand, the romance was just as exquisite as it was in House of Bane and Blood and I can't get enough of these two idiots who are so in love with each other they make me wanna barf rainbows. I love them and their relationship so much T___T
Menard's spice is so enjoyable and soooooo hot. The office scene was pure fire and the carriage one also made my stomach clench so many times (except I still don't know how I feel about that whole false hand update business lol - I'm pretty positive Milla enjoyed despite what I think about it).
I wished we had more sweet moments and, why not, I wouldn't have minded a couple more smutty ones, either.
If only Luther wasn't such an immense cockblocker.
Plotwise speaking, there is very little I didn't like. The first part was so entertaining and interesting, both in terms of character depth and story development. I loved seeing Nico and Milla fight to come back to each other, because there's very little they wouldn't do to be together and it's the thought of spending eternity together that guides their actions, making them unhinged and completely reckless. We love a morally gray FMC just as much (possibly even more, really) as we love a morally questionable MMC, in this household. And Milla is a total badass.
Another thing I wanna praise the author for is how she managed to create conflict in and outside the main relationship without throwing unnecessary drama or meaningless break-ups in the readers face. Every time shit hit the fan I kept bracing myself for heartbreak, but it never came, and it made me appreciate the romance even more.
Not that this prevented my heart from being broken. Fuck my life, there were moments that really had me worried. Aramis, if you're reading this, I hope every side of your pillow is always warm.
In conclusion, this was the perfect conclusion to a perfect duology that I'll never stop recommending. I can't already wait to re-read it.
July 11, 2024
2 ★’s
This is not a bad book, but it’s not for me.
My thoughts for this are very similar to the first book.
This has many of the things I usually enjoy when reading; action, political intrigue, scheming, found family, interesting magic system, etc.
However, all of this falls completely flat when the main characters are the least interesting part of the books.
Only looking at the romance, I cannot see any sort of tension or chemistry between them.
Due to their actions, I buy that there is love there but it’s more so giving an elderly couple that is neglecting each other, rather than a newly in-love couple that hasn’t even confessed their feelings yet.
I think too much was focused on the spice building their chemistry and dynamic, whereas their communication was just plain, unexciting and nothing I haven't heard before. We never really got to see them open up or bond over anything.
Looking at the main characters separately as individuals.
Camilla was incredibly whiny and honestly stupid throughout a lot of this book, which made me not really care for her all that much.
However, Nicolai I actively dislike. The way he went through all this trouble of saving her, for then not actually spending any time with her? And every time they did spend together, he was just thinking about how horny she made him?
The moment Nico said “you were worth it all” after them having sex for the first time after him saving her, made me want to throw my kindle into the wall. (Don’t worry, I didn’t - my kindle is safe and sound)
Over to the things I did enjoy:
I love a good found family, and that was my favourite part about book one of this series and it continues to be the favourite thing in this book.
Nonna, Esme & Luther are my loves, and I wished to have seen them even more.
"We're her family too" coming from Luther made my heart burst just a little bit.
The revenge plot felt a bit vague at times, but the ending did end up being satisfying. The last 20% of the book is probably when I felt most engulfed in the story.
I also want to give credit for an incredibly well made recap. When it’s been a little while between books, it’s so easy to forget details and relations. Here the recap cleared out any question marks in advance.
All in all, I can see why some people like this. It’s unique, well written and has an overall interesting plot. Although, as I personally couldn’t connect to the main characters I didn’t end up feeling immersed in the story, hence this wasn’t for me.
Thank you to Booksirens and the publisher for the free copy in exchange for an honest review.
________
⌞Pre-read:⌝
I'm way too indecisive rn, but I just remembered this one that I have to finish. I hope this is gonna do it for me🤞
This is not a bad book, but it’s not for me.
My thoughts for this are very similar to the first book.
This has many of the things I usually enjoy when reading; action, political intrigue, scheming, found family, interesting magic system, etc.
However, all of this falls completely flat when the main characters are the least interesting part of the books.
Only looking at the romance, I cannot see any sort of tension or chemistry between them.
Due to their actions, I buy that there is love there but it’s more so giving an elderly couple that is neglecting each other, rather than a newly in-love couple that hasn’t even confessed their feelings yet.
I think too much was focused on the spice building their chemistry and dynamic, whereas their communication was just plain, unexciting and nothing I haven't heard before. We never really got to see them open up or bond over anything.
Looking at the main characters separately as individuals.
Camilla was incredibly whiny and honestly stupid throughout a lot of this book, which made me not really care for her all that much.
However, Nicolai I actively dislike. The way he went through all this trouble of saving her, for then not actually spending any time with her? And every time they did spend together, he was just thinking about how horny she made him?
The moment Nico said “you were worth it all” after them having sex for the first time after him saving her, made me want to throw my kindle into the wall. (Don’t worry, I didn’t - my kindle is safe and sound)
Over to the things I did enjoy:
I love a good found family, and that was my favourite part about book one of this series and it continues to be the favourite thing in this book.
Nonna, Esme & Luther are my loves, and I wished to have seen them even more.
"We're her family too" coming from Luther made my heart burst just a little bit.
The revenge plot felt a bit vague at times, but the ending did end up being satisfying. The last 20% of the book is probably when I felt most engulfed in the story.
I also want to give credit for an incredibly well made recap. When it’s been a little while between books, it’s so easy to forget details and relations. Here the recap cleared out any question marks in advance.
All in all, I can see why some people like this. It’s unique, well written and has an overall interesting plot. Although, as I personally couldn’t connect to the main characters I didn’t end up feeling immersed in the story, hence this wasn’t for me.
Thank you to Booksirens and the publisher for the free copy in exchange for an honest review.
________
⌞Pre-read:⌝
I'm way too indecisive rn, but I just remembered this one that I have to finish. I hope this is gonna do it for me🤞
May 7, 2024
I am so excited to conclude Nico and Milla's story with City of Mirth and Malice. Their story has changed my life and my career as an author, and I am so grateful for everyone who has read, starred, reviewed, and/or shared House of Bane and Blood.
You can absolutely expect more books from this world, and I am so excited to start writing the next installment! Follow me on IG and TT, and don't forget to subscribe to my newsletter for more information regarding future books!
You can absolutely expect more books from this world, and I am so excited to start writing the next installment! Follow me on IG and TT, and don't forget to subscribe to my newsletter for more information regarding future books!
June 30, 2024
4 - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“Your laugh is a song of victory, proving you faced their worst and not only survived, but came out with joy still in your heart. And that fucking smile, not to mention your eyes—the light still shining in your eyes—they are beacons to me, guiding me to my true home as they have since the first time I caught a glimpse of them.”
We continue in City of Mirth and Malice where we left off in the first book, so you are hit yet again with a sense of immense dread (without spoiling anything).
The sequel promises non-stop thrilling action and scheming while in parallel transporting us to darker settings. In a world of lethal magic and vengeful gang families, the stakes are extremely high and the potential consequences are devastating if one wrong move is made.
Milla goes through so much and her arc is done splendidy even if my heart hurt for what she had been subjected to. On the other hand, Nico is completely devoted and helplessly in love with his wife he is willing to burn the whole world for her.
Among all the seriousness, there were some lighthearted and hilarious scenes that made me howl! I adore the familial bonds and I consider them part of the backbone of the duology as much as the romance and magic system.
I think the pacing faltered a bit midway and the scenes didn't flow easily with so much happening, but it all builds up to an explosive climax.
I'm elated to know that this won't be the end of the world of Order and Chaos, I'm excited to see what Alexis has planned next!
Content warning: profanity, tobacco and alcohol use, graphic sexual content, mentioned death of a parent and sibling, gaslighting family members, brief breath play, torture, violence, and mentions of suic*de.
“Your laugh is a song of victory, proving you faced their worst and not only survived, but came out with joy still in your heart. And that fucking smile, not to mention your eyes—the light still shining in your eyes—they are beacons to me, guiding me to my true home as they have since the first time I caught a glimpse of them.”
We continue in City of Mirth and Malice where we left off in the first book, so you are hit yet again with a sense of immense dread (without spoiling anything).
The sequel promises non-stop thrilling action and scheming while in parallel transporting us to darker settings. In a world of lethal magic and vengeful gang families, the stakes are extremely high and the potential consequences are devastating if one wrong move is made.
Milla goes through so much and her arc is done splendidy even if my heart hurt for what she had been subjected to. On the other hand, Nico is completely devoted and helplessly in love with his wife he is willing to burn the whole world for her.
Among all the seriousness, there were some lighthearted and hilarious scenes that made me howl! I adore the familial bonds and I consider them part of the backbone of the duology as much as the romance and magic system.
I think the pacing faltered a bit midway and the scenes didn't flow easily with so much happening, but it all builds up to an explosive climax.
I'm elated to know that this won't be the end of the world of Order and Chaos, I'm excited to see what Alexis has planned next!
Content warning: profanity, tobacco and alcohol use, graphic sexual content, mentioned death of a parent and sibling, gaslighting family members, brief breath play, torture, violence, and mentions of suic*de.
May 6, 2024
A very solid 4.5 ⭐️
“You spoil me, Attano.”
“You’re already spoiled, princess.” 🫠🥹🤧
This was definitely better than book 1! I kind of had a feeling it would be because the plot and good characters were there. It’s was just a little awkward in book 1, but I kind of understand because world building alongside a plot can’t be easy.
It neatly ties up Milla and Nico’s story, with a nice HEA(for now? I don’t know if we’ll get more books regarding Milla’s search for her past…)
Similar to the first instalment, it’s a dual POV.
City and Mirth continues where House of Bane and Blood left off; with Milla in the Hightower Prison and Nico trying to save her. Nico spends a good portion of the book scheming and doing all he can free his wife. We also get to see Milla’s challenges in the prison and the awful tests she is put through. This is where you can see that the writing style and plot has DEFINITELY improved - my God, the way we see Milla struggle and how she is being broken whilst we see how stressed and desperate Nico is on the outside? 👏🏾🥺 I was really sad for the first could chapters.
Without spoiling how, Milla and Nico eventually reunite ➡️
“Nico,”
“Hello, princess.” 🤧🥹🫠🫶🏾
Then we get all the romance. The romance was romancing!! And Nico’s love declarations were EVERYTHING ➡️ “There isn’t a hell in the void that could keep me from you, Milla. I’d suffer for a lifetime to have another moment on your lips.” CRYING IN THE CLUB RIGHT NOW X
Only complaint is that Nico and Milla were a little too cringey at times…there’s a difference between cheesy (kinda good) and cringey (kinda bad). But that’s okay because the overall romance was a solid 4/5.
The whole story is a big game of politics. It’s also the classic plot of those in power trying to control those different from them (descendants with magic). We see this time and time again - stories where the rich and powerful fear the loss of status…fear those they do not understand will someday overpower them...cowards. This story had a little bit more substance with in my opinion, and it came together quite well. I started to understand the plot and magic system way more and how the those in the row threatened the nine families.
Last point: I still really really REALLY hate Aramis, Milla’s brother. There’s a good storyline here about how family can gaslight you. Also, how people closest to you can think they are protecting you by controlling you and refusing to let you make your own decisions. Again, no spoilers but I hated how everything turned out with her brothers. Because they were still wrong!!!!!
Anyways, yes to this book. 👏🏾 I’ve seen lots of descriptions refer to it as a peaky blinders fantasy and I’d have to say these are accurate.
——————————————
Ready for some Nico and Camilla content 🎉🤞🏾
Dear Alexis L Menard,
Please give me some Luther healing and justice narrative or I will RIOT.
Sincerely, a dramatic reader xo
“You spoil me, Attano.”
“You’re already spoiled, princess.” 🫠🥹🤧
This was definitely better than book 1! I kind of had a feeling it would be because the plot and good characters were there. It’s was just a little awkward in book 1, but I kind of understand because world building alongside a plot can’t be easy.
It neatly ties up Milla and Nico’s story, with a nice HEA(for now? I don’t know if we’ll get more books regarding Milla’s search for her past…)
Similar to the first instalment, it’s a dual POV.
City and Mirth continues where House of Bane and Blood left off; with Milla in the Hightower Prison and Nico trying to save her. Nico spends a good portion of the book scheming and doing all he can free his wife. We also get to see Milla’s challenges in the prison and the awful tests she is put through. This is where you can see that the writing style and plot has DEFINITELY improved - my God, the way we see Milla struggle and how she is being broken whilst we see how stressed and desperate Nico is on the outside? 👏🏾🥺 I was really sad for the first could chapters.
Without spoiling how, Milla and Nico eventually reunite ➡️
“Nico,”
“Hello, princess.” 🤧🥹🫠🫶🏾
Then we get all the romance. The romance was romancing!! And Nico’s love declarations were EVERYTHING ➡️ “There isn’t a hell in the void that could keep me from you, Milla. I’d suffer for a lifetime to have another moment on your lips.” CRYING IN THE CLUB RIGHT NOW X
Only complaint is that Nico and Milla were a little too cringey at times…there’s a difference between cheesy (kinda good) and cringey (kinda bad). But that’s okay because the overall romance was a solid 4/5.
The whole story is a big game of politics. It’s also the classic plot of those in power trying to control those different from them (descendants with magic). We see this time and time again - stories where the rich and powerful fear the loss of status…fear those they do not understand will someday overpower them...cowards. This story had a little bit more substance with in my opinion, and it came together quite well. I started to understand the plot and magic system way more and how the those in the row threatened the nine families.
Last point: I still really really REALLY hate Aramis, Milla’s brother. There’s a good storyline here about how family can gaslight you. Also, how people closest to you can think they are protecting you by controlling you and refusing to let you make your own decisions. Again, no spoilers but I hated how everything turned out with her brothers. Because they were still wrong!!!!!
Anyways, yes to this book. 👏🏾 I’ve seen lots of descriptions refer to it as a peaky blinders fantasy and I’d have to say these are accurate.
——————————————
Ready for some Nico and Camilla content 🎉🤞🏾
Dear Alexis L Menard,
Please give me some Luther healing and justice narrative or I will RIOT.
Sincerely, a dramatic reader xo
August 29, 2024
3.5⭐
Book one? IMMACULATE. This one just fell a little flat unfortunately.
I felt like the beginning was a tad slow and hard to follow, like I still actually have questions. Then the middle picked up a little and I started to really enjoy it - and then it kinda just ended. I know this is a duet but I still feel like there could be more honestly.
I definitely didn't hate it like book one I loved so much and gave it 5 stars so the duet as a whole would probably get 4 stars from me and I definitely will still recommend it, I just really think book one is much stronger than book two. The banter didn't really feel as natural and I also almost felt like Milla wasn't as badass and that was my absolute favorite thing about her.
Anyway, still recommend this duet & will 100% read more from this author in the future!
Book one? IMMACULATE. This one just fell a little flat unfortunately.
I felt like the beginning was a tad slow and hard to follow, like I still actually have questions. Then the middle picked up a little and I started to really enjoy it - and then it kinda just ended. I know this is a duet but I still feel like there could be more honestly.
I definitely didn't hate it like book one I loved so much and gave it 5 stars so the duet as a whole would probably get 4 stars from me and I definitely will still recommend it, I just really think book one is much stronger than book two. The banter didn't really feel as natural and I also almost felt like Milla wasn't as badass and that was my absolute favorite thing about her.
Anyway, still recommend this duet & will 100% read more from this author in the future!
May 7, 2024
How is it that so much and NOTHING happened all at the same time??
This book felt so discombobulated and jumbled. I had such high hopes after really enjoying book 1, but it felt watered down and filled with overly complicated, oftentimes confusing exposition. Towards the end I found myself just wanting it to be done.
I haven't seen any reviews that are not from ARCs rating it 4 or 5 stars, but to me this just did not live up to the first book (I even noticed a couple typos...)
This book felt so discombobulated and jumbled. I had such high hopes after really enjoying book 1, but it felt watered down and filled with overly complicated, oftentimes confusing exposition. Towards the end I found myself just wanting it to be done.
I haven't seen any reviews that are not from ARCs rating it 4 or 5 stars, but to me this just did not live up to the first book (I even noticed a couple typos...)
May 1, 2024
Rating- Five stars
(Kindle Unlimited)
Thank you to the author for letting me have an ARC of this book 🫶
Happy publication day to this amazing book!
This book was brilliant. The second book in a series can be the test point for the series but this book was great and definitely was a great second book. This book concluded Nico's and Milla's story which is so sad but gives other characters their own book. We will probably still see them both though. The things I would do for either a Luther/Gideon book.
The emotions throughout this book were insane. The amount of times I either laughed or cried and the occasional anger was unreal. Aramis I am looking at you... At one point it was so stressful and I did not believe the book would have gone the way it did (no spoilers here!)
This book was also so unique compared to a lot of fantasy romances out there which was a nice change. The world was more built up and developed and answers lots of questions from the previous book. Like the other book, this was Dual Povs again where we got both Camilla's and Nico point of views.
I am really glad that I was given the oppournity to have an ARC of this book and can not honestly wait for further instalments in this world. Thank you so much. It was such a beautiful ending to Camilla and Nico relationship/story.
(Kindle Unlimited)
Thank you to the author for letting me have an ARC of this book 🫶
Happy publication day to this amazing book!
This book was brilliant. The second book in a series can be the test point for the series but this book was great and definitely was a great second book. This book concluded Nico's and Milla's story which is so sad but gives other characters their own book. We will probably still see them both though. The things I would do for either a Luther/Gideon book.
The emotions throughout this book were insane. The amount of times I either laughed or cried and the occasional anger was unreal. Aramis I am looking at you... At one point it was so stressful and I did not believe the book would have gone the way it did (no spoilers here!)
This book was also so unique compared to a lot of fantasy romances out there which was a nice change. The world was more built up and developed and answers lots of questions from the previous book. Like the other book, this was Dual Povs again where we got both Camilla's and Nico point of views.
I am really glad that I was given the oppournity to have an ARC of this book and can not honestly wait for further instalments in this world. Thank you so much. It was such a beautiful ending to Camilla and Nico relationship/story.
August 1, 2024
Nico is my light. My heart. My star. My sun. My moon.
August 12, 2024
UGH. I’m sad. This one definitely did not have me in the same chokehold as the first book did and fell completely flat in every aspect.
The plot? Lackluster. The spice? Mid. The characters? Dull.
Milla was nowhere close to being the sassy badass she was in book one. And her powers?? We barely got to see her use them. And Nico was nowhere close to being the sexy mysterious gang lord he was in book one.
They spent most of the book apart & when they were together, the witty banter I craved was basically nonexistent 😒
So yeah basically, I needed more 🤷🏻♀️
The plot? Lackluster. The spice? Mid. The characters? Dull.
Milla was nowhere close to being the sassy badass she was in book one. And her powers?? We barely got to see her use them. And Nico was nowhere close to being the sexy mysterious gang lord he was in book one.
They spent most of the book apart & when they were together, the witty banter I craved was basically nonexistent 😒
So yeah basically, I needed more 🤷🏻♀️
August 12, 2024
AHHHHHH Nico and Camilla have my whole heart. They are ride or die amazing. I also really liked the plot and how the world expanded in here. This setting is so unique and refreshing compared to all the fae romantasy out there without feeling too urban fantasy. I can't wait to see what comes next
April 18, 2024
4.5 stars - I absolutely loved this! Such a solid conclusion to Nico and Camilla's story.
This instalment answered a lot of the questions I had about the world and magic system in book 1, and I'm really glad because in the first half I still felt a little confused about it all. But we do indeed get answers and explanations. This one also continued to have the peaky blinders x fantasy vibe, with lots of political intrigue. The heart of this book is definitely the romance and it was wonderful. I'm biased because I'm one of those people that doesn't mind (dare I say...enjoys) when a couple gets together and stays together lol so I was totally eating up all their adorable moments.
This book picks up a few weeks after book 1 wraps up. It starts with Nico and co. trying to get Camilla back (with various roadblocks along the way ofc) and Camilla just doing her best to survive at Hightower. As the story goes on, we see the team navigating enemies from the previous book, new threats, implications of certain powers, implications and the fallout of deals that were made earlier in the book. There's mystery, there's tension, there are train chases, and there's even a fun heist moment! It felt like something was constantly happening and as with the first book, everything felt fresh and unique for the genre. There are some of the tried and tested tropes, but they're still just presented in a refreshing, non-generic way. It was great to see all the characters working together to deal with all these conflicts, while navigating potential traitors in their midst and wavering alliances.
The only reason I didn't give this a full 5 stars is that I found the first ~30% or so to be a tad slow. However, once things got going, they continued to be great until the very end. The way it ended has me really intrigued about where the next book will take us!
Thank you so much to the author for sending me an eARC! <3
This instalment answered a lot of the questions I had about the world and magic system in book 1, and I'm really glad because in the first half I still felt a little confused about it all. But we do indeed get answers and explanations. This one also continued to have the peaky blinders x fantasy vibe, with lots of political intrigue. The heart of this book is definitely the romance and it was wonderful. I'm biased because I'm one of those people that doesn't mind (dare I say...enjoys) when a couple gets together and stays together lol so I was totally eating up all their adorable moments.
This book picks up a few weeks after book 1 wraps up. It starts with Nico and co. trying to get Camilla back (with various roadblocks along the way ofc) and Camilla just doing her best to survive at Hightower. As the story goes on, we see the team navigating enemies from the previous book, new threats, implications of certain powers, implications and the fallout of deals that were made earlier in the book. There's mystery, there's tension, there are train chases, and there's even a fun heist moment! It felt like something was constantly happening and as with the first book, everything felt fresh and unique for the genre. There are some of the tried and tested tropes, but they're still just presented in a refreshing, non-generic way. It was great to see all the characters working together to deal with all these conflicts, while navigating potential traitors in their midst and wavering alliances.
The only reason I didn't give this a full 5 stars is that I found the first ~30% or so to be a tad slow. However, once things got going, they continued to be great until the very end. The way it ended has me really intrigued about where the next book will take us!
Thank you so much to the author for sending me an eARC! <3
May 17, 2024
DNF @ 54%
The plot of this book was all over the place and it is begging to be properly edited. I tried to ignore all the grammatical issues, spelling mistakes, and incorrect word usage in the first book, but it was just egregious in this one.
I definitely feel like this book is trying to lean heavily on popular tropes, but it doesn't deliver. The romantic spark between Milla and Nico feels off compared to their first book.
Because of all this, I couldn't force myself to continue reading.
The plot of this book was all over the place and it is begging to be properly edited. I tried to ignore all the grammatical issues, spelling mistakes, and incorrect word usage in the first book, but it was just egregious in this one.
I definitely feel like this book is trying to lean heavily on popular tropes, but it doesn't deliver. The romantic spark between Milla and Nico feels off compared to their first book.
Because of all this, I couldn't force myself to continue reading.
August 11, 2024
Claims to be Peaky Blinders meets fantasy, but it's just a messy enemies-to-lovers disaster with ultra boring and pathetic characters.
Want to read
May 1, 2024Nico takes his whiskey neat. Excited!
April 11, 2024
4.5 stars
I absolutely loved it; it was just so good! When so much of the fantasy romance genre is the same, this is a breath of fresh air. It's got such a unique vibe. It's Peaky Blinders meets Six of Crows with some spice. It's a completed duet that is going to be part of a series. It has a unique magic system, a strong plot, great world-building, and loveable characters. I felt like the character development for the FMC was a little weak, but other than that, I thought it was perfect. This is one of my favorite fantasy romances, and I can't wait to see what comes next!
I absolutely loved it; it was just so good! When so much of the fantasy romance genre is the same, this is a breath of fresh air. It's got such a unique vibe. It's Peaky Blinders meets Six of Crows with some spice. It's a completed duet that is going to be part of a series. It has a unique magic system, a strong plot, great world-building, and loveable characters. I felt like the character development for the FMC was a little weak, but other than that, I thought it was perfect. This is one of my favorite fantasy romances, and I can't wait to see what comes next!
April 15, 2024
My Rating⭐⭐⭐⭐
Amount of spice:🔥🔥
Explicitness: 🌶️🌶️.5
OMG I was so stressed for this entire read but I usually take this as a good sign because it means I’m invested. Camilla and Nico have definitely won me over. I love them both separately and they make such a fantastic duo too. There was found family, a whole lot of the ‘touch my wife and d*e’ trope and so much action and adventure.
I really admire authors like Alexis L. Menard who can write really detailed fantasies but my pea brain cannot keep up. There was so much going on - almost too much. I adored all of the characters but I didn’t have the same love for the plot which might have been a me thing. It’s also very unlike me to say this but I wish this was a trilogy because the ending felt almost unfinished and it ended really abruptly.
I do think Alexis is a fantastic author and this world and characters she has created are wonderful. I can’t wait to see more from her.
Thanks so much Alexis for the ARC of COMAM! I am one lucky gal
Amount of spice:🔥🔥
Explicitness: 🌶️🌶️.5
OMG I was so stressed for this entire read but I usually take this as a good sign because it means I’m invested. Camilla and Nico have definitely won me over. I love them both separately and they make such a fantastic duo too. There was found family, a whole lot of the ‘touch my wife and d*e’ trope and so much action and adventure.
I really admire authors like Alexis L. Menard who can write really detailed fantasies but my pea brain cannot keep up. There was so much going on - almost too much. I adored all of the characters but I didn’t have the same love for the plot which might have been a me thing. It’s also very unlike me to say this but I wish this was a trilogy because the ending felt almost unfinished and it ended really abruptly.
I do think Alexis is a fantastic author and this world and characters she has created are wonderful. I can’t wait to see more from her.
Thanks so much Alexis for the ARC of COMAM! I am one lucky gal
April 20, 2024
Thank you to Alexis Menard for the ARC!!!! getting to read this ahead of its release was truly an honor🥹😭
4⭐️ this wrapped up milla and nicos story so well🫶🏼 i am just in love with how Alexis writes her characters. nico and milla are both so🤌🏼🤌🏼 the plot of this one got so much bigger than i even predicted but i was just happy to be along for the ride😌 let me just say how much i freakin adore the peaky blinder vibes ITS TOP NOTCH MATERIAL HERE‼️‼️ also, GIDEON SUPREMACY I LOVE HIM🥺 i can’t wait for everyone to read this duology it’s literally so unique and fun and just ugh read it!!! must say house of bane and blood was still my favorite tho🤭
4⭐️ this wrapped up milla and nicos story so well🫶🏼 i am just in love with how Alexis writes her characters. nico and milla are both so🤌🏼🤌🏼 the plot of this one got so much bigger than i even predicted but i was just happy to be along for the ride😌 let me just say how much i freakin adore the peaky blinder vibes ITS TOP NOTCH MATERIAL HERE‼️‼️ also, GIDEON SUPREMACY I LOVE HIM🥺 i can’t wait for everyone to read this duology it’s literally so unique and fun and just ugh read it!!! must say house of bane and blood was still my favorite tho🤭
August 14, 2024
3.5. The first half could have been 50 pages. The second half I devoured. I enjoyed the first book more but I love these characters so much that I’d read anything with them!
April 10, 2024
ARC review
I loved this book so, so much. Alexis is not a new author to me. I read her Last Daughter duology so I kind of knew what to expect from the writing style. I knew I was gonna like it but I didn't expect to fall in love with Milla and Nico that much. Milla is an amazing character. Strong, fearless and determined and Nico is something else. He's ready to face anything for her. His devotion to Milla is magnificent and the love they have for each other is beautiful. The side characters in this book are amazing. I love Nico's cousins, especially my baby Luther. The Attanos are wonderful people. The way the accepted Milla as part of their family almost immediately in the first book was awesome. In this book their family dynamic is everything. Especially Milla's relationship with Nonna. It's so precious to me. Milla's brothers on the other hand were an enigma to me. More specifically Aramis. I couldn't figure out that guy throughout the whole book. I'd changed my opinion about him about five times. I despised him, then liked him, then he irritated the shit out of me with his attitude, then I loathed him and went back to liking him in the end. And I loved every time I switched my opinion. Even though they're civil now, I really hope in the future books he and Milla will fix their relationship completely. The last 20% percent were a real rollercoaster. WHAT THE F*CK WAS THAT?? Yeah, that about sums it up. So many things were happening and the plot twist on betrayals was executed interestingly. And now I need book 3 because I'm gonna miss this world.
I loved this book so, so much. Alexis is not a new author to me. I read her Last Daughter duology so I kind of knew what to expect from the writing style. I knew I was gonna like it but I didn't expect to fall in love with Milla and Nico that much. Milla is an amazing character. Strong, fearless and determined and Nico is something else. He's ready to face anything for her. His devotion to Milla is magnificent and the love they have for each other is beautiful. The side characters in this book are amazing. I love Nico's cousins, especially my baby Luther. The Attanos are wonderful people. The way the accepted Milla as part of their family almost immediately in the first book was awesome. In this book their family dynamic is everything. Especially Milla's relationship with Nonna. It's so precious to me. Milla's brothers on the other hand were an enigma to me. More specifically Aramis. I couldn't figure out that guy throughout the whole book. I'd changed my opinion about him about five times. I despised him, then liked him, then he irritated the shit out of me with his attitude, then I loathed him and went back to liking him in the end. And I loved every time I switched my opinion. Even though they're civil now, I really hope in the future books he and Milla will fix their relationship completely. The last 20% percent were a real rollercoaster. WHAT THE F*CK WAS THAT?? Yeah, that about sums it up. So many things were happening and the plot twist on betrayals was executed interestingly. And now I need book 3 because I'm gonna miss this world.
July 26, 2024
~3.5 stars~
May 9, 2024
I think this would be a 5 star read for me IF it was a trilogy, not a duology. This book felt rushed. We got a lot of off page progression with stuff that I really wanted on page, such as Milla’s training with her remnant. Besides her time in Hightower, the training and mastering of her remnant was nonexistent on page. Her trauma following Hightower was also skimmed over, and I think exploring that with Milla would have brought so much depth to her character and arc.
The thing this book has going for it was how fast paced and action packed it is. I never wanted to put it down. But once it was over, I wanted so much more from the story that I just didn’t get. Once I realized that there was only 15% left and so much was still unresolved, I worried I was in for a rushed ending. The ending heavily hinted at possibly getting more? But I also know the duology is complete? So I’m confused.
If Alexis were to release a 3rd book, I would read it in a heartbeat. I do enjoy this story. Nico is 🤤 and Camilla is exactly what I look for in a FMC. The plot is unique, the characters are interesting, and I want to quite literally dive into the world that has been created. As it was, and even though I love a happily ever after, Milla and Nico’s story just feels incomplete and lacking.
The thing this book has going for it was how fast paced and action packed it is. I never wanted to put it down. But once it was over, I wanted so much more from the story that I just didn’t get. Once I realized that there was only 15% left and so much was still unresolved, I worried I was in for a rushed ending. The ending heavily hinted at possibly getting more? But I also know the duology is complete? So I’m confused.
If Alexis were to release a 3rd book, I would read it in a heartbeat. I do enjoy this story. Nico is 🤤 and Camilla is exactly what I look for in a FMC. The plot is unique, the characters are interesting, and I want to quite literally dive into the world that has been created. As it was, and even though I love a happily ever after, Milla and Nico’s story just feels incomplete and lacking.
April 9, 2024
THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU to the author for this e-arc.
I love this world. I love the Attanos. The whole family. I want to live in that house.
Aramis and Vanya gave me serious whiplash.
I cannnnoootttt wait to see Camilla really master her powers. The scenes we’ve gotten so far were beautifully catastrophic and I’m here for her to raise hell.
I did feel like for half the book I wasn’t entirely sure what the bigger plot was? It was all about retrieving Camilla. Which I get. It needed to happen, I needed her out too. But then when she got out, it felt like a “…..ok but now what” moment. This was easily remedied by the fact that THINGS kept happening, but it did get me to the 4/5 instead of the 5/5.
I love this world. I love the Attanos. The whole family. I want to live in that house.
Aramis and Vanya gave me serious whiplash.
I cannnnoootttt wait to see Camilla really master her powers. The scenes we’ve gotten so far were beautifully catastrophic and I’m here for her to raise hell.
I did feel like for half the book I wasn’t entirely sure what the bigger plot was? It was all about retrieving Camilla. Which I get. It needed to happen, I needed her out too. But then when she got out, it felt like a “…..ok but now what” moment. This was easily remedied by the fact that THINGS kept happening, but it did get me to the 4/5 instead of the 5/5.
June 22, 2024
Bugger. This was one of my most anticipated reads and it was good but I struggled. I think if I read the first book following into this I may have loved it more. There was a recap from the first book at the start of this which I appreciated. It started strong but lost its way. Once Nico got Camilla back they jumped straight into business. I was hoping Nico would take care of and devour her but every time these two characters would get intimate someone always interrupted it was frustrating. Both these characters were strong in the first book but now a sappy mess in this second. Yes, Camilla went through a lot at the start but she cried many times. The ending for me seemed rushed and unfinished. Why go to all that hassle to get the book but not do anything with it? When Nonna fell why did Nico freak out and jump straight into business? He loved that woman and ran away. What is the extent of Camilla’s power? I feel like many things could have been explored more. Unfortunately, it fell flat for me and lost its spark from the first book.
If you love:
🔹Adult Fantasy Romance
🔹Marriage Of Convenience
🔹Rivals
🔹Magic System
🔹Rescue Mission
🔹A Little Bit Of Spice
Genre/Type: Adult Fantasy Romance 18+
APK: Physical Read
Pages: 497
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️.5
Series or Stand Alone: Final Book In The Order And Chaos Duet
Tropes or Themes: Marriage Of Convenience, Rivals To Lovers, Found Family, My Wife, Kidnapping, Cursing, Violence, Injury, Death, Sexual Content
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫
All Round Romance Reader
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | StoryGraph | Everand | Amazon | Audible Reviews 💫
If you love:
🔹Adult Fantasy Romance
🔹Marriage Of Convenience
🔹Rivals
🔹Magic System
🔹Rescue Mission
🔹A Little Bit Of Spice
Genre/Type: Adult Fantasy Romance 18+
APK: Physical Read
Pages: 497
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️.5
Series or Stand Alone: Final Book In The Order And Chaos Duet
Tropes or Themes: Marriage Of Convenience, Rivals To Lovers, Found Family, My Wife, Kidnapping, Cursing, Violence, Injury, Death, Sexual Content
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫
All Round Romance Reader
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | StoryGraph | Everand | Amazon | Audible Reviews 💫
April 28, 2024
I would just like to start this with a round of applause for Ms Menard 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
Y’all want to know what I think is one of the most considerate things an author can do for a reader? Write a freaking recap. I read book 1, House of Bane and Blood back in October. So I mean, it’s been a few months. But this woman wrote a perfect little recap at the beginning and I just really love that and hope to see this more in the future.
Now, on to the book. YALL. I JUST CANT. THIS BOOK WAS PHENOMENAL. Just like book one, I am obsessed. This duet right here is so freaking good. This story just genuinely sticks out more than most. Maybe it’s the premise, fantasy but with Peaky Blinders vibes, or the superb character development. Or maybe the 100 other perfect things about this book. But all I know is that this book DELIVERED. Suspense, romance, action, and magic, we have it all.
The plot is great, and our character’s journeys were fantastic. And honestly, I liked how Nico and Camilla’s story was wrapped up (but will we get more from this world???). Their relationship grew BEAUTIFULLY in this book. Like I loved them in book 1, but my god, not just the growth but the emotion was so genuine and it just constantly gave me the warm and fuzzies.
Individually, I love these characters as well. Camilla is such a BA and I love her journey, chefs kiss 🤌🏻 and of course we love a morally grey man obsessed and willing to go lengths for his women. Nico is perfection. AND THE FOUND FAMILY. I LOVE these side characters. Overall, this series is such an enjoyable read. It’s so action packed and magical and I cannot recommend it more.
Without ruining the whole story, y’all, if you’re looking for a NOW COMPLETED duet featuring all the bests:
✨Found family
✨Rivals to lovers
✨Marriage of convenience
✨Morally grey characters
✨”Where is my wife”
✨Slow burn but 🌶️
✨Gaslamp vibes
✨Mafia but fantasy
Then I 100% think you should read this amazing story ✌🏻
Y’all want to know what I think is one of the most considerate things an author can do for a reader? Write a freaking recap. I read book 1, House of Bane and Blood back in October. So I mean, it’s been a few months. But this woman wrote a perfect little recap at the beginning and I just really love that and hope to see this more in the future.
Now, on to the book. YALL. I JUST CANT. THIS BOOK WAS PHENOMENAL. Just like book one, I am obsessed. This duet right here is so freaking good. This story just genuinely sticks out more than most. Maybe it’s the premise, fantasy but with Peaky Blinders vibes, or the superb character development. Or maybe the 100 other perfect things about this book. But all I know is that this book DELIVERED. Suspense, romance, action, and magic, we have it all.
The plot is great, and our character’s journeys were fantastic. And honestly, I liked how Nico and Camilla’s story was wrapped up (but will we get more from this world???). Their relationship grew BEAUTIFULLY in this book. Like I loved them in book 1, but my god, not just the growth but the emotion was so genuine and it just constantly gave me the warm and fuzzies.
Individually, I love these characters as well. Camilla is such a BA and I love her journey, chefs kiss 🤌🏻 and of course we love a morally grey man obsessed and willing to go lengths for his women. Nico is perfection. AND THE FOUND FAMILY. I LOVE these side characters. Overall, this series is such an enjoyable read. It’s so action packed and magical and I cannot recommend it more.
Without ruining the whole story, y’all, if you’re looking for a NOW COMPLETED duet featuring all the bests:
✨Found family
✨Rivals to lovers
✨Marriage of convenience
✨Morally grey characters
✨”Where is my wife”
✨Slow burn but 🌶️
✨Gaslamp vibes
✨Mafia but fantasy
Then I 100% think you should read this amazing story ✌🏻
September 2, 2024
AHHHHH That is all. Everyone should read this series. I will read anything Alexis writes Nico and Camilla have my entire heart.
June 15, 2024
4.5 stars.
Thank you for the E-ARC Alexis 💝
Absolutely loved this! It’s taken me an age to read purely because I’ve been in a reading slump and it’s the type of book that requires focus, however I did enjoy it thoroughly.
What I liked about this book was that we get a lot of Camilla and Nico as individuals growing and having their own plots, yet they’re not separated so long that it’s infuriating and kills the romance of the book.
It ended as the perfect conclusion to their story for me, and I think we have room for future books in this world which is exciting!
I did find the first 30% slower in pace which is the only reason it’s not 5 stars
Thank you for the E-ARC Alexis 💝
Absolutely loved this! It’s taken me an age to read purely because I’ve been in a reading slump and it’s the type of book that requires focus, however I did enjoy it thoroughly.
What I liked about this book was that we get a lot of Camilla and Nico as individuals growing and having their own plots, yet they’re not separated so long that it’s infuriating and kills the romance of the book.
It ended as the perfect conclusion to their story for me, and I think we have room for future books in this world which is exciting!
I did find the first 30% slower in pace which is the only reason it’s not 5 stars
May 3, 2024
This was a fantastic conclusion of Nico and Milla's story. This book had me on my toes the entire time. The lies, betrayal and near constant action was so enthralling! I look forward to any further books related to this series.
Shelved as 'dnf'
June 3, 2024I will come back to this one. I just find myself not caring at the moment.
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