Allegiance by Cayla Kluver

Alera is now Hytanica's newly crowned queen, a person with the title, but no real power. Her only concern is to run the household and raise the children... her forced marriage with Steldor is becoming more and more strained, especially when he discovers her past relationship with Narian, who is still nowhere to be found.
When Alera's sister, Miranna, is abducted right from the palace by Cokyrians, Alera believes that nothing could be worse... Only to discover that the Cokyrians are preparing to launch a full scale attack, and the man that will lead: Narian

Under Narian's direction, Hytanica will fall...


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Allegiance was a huge improvement compared to Legacy, it retained its unique ideas and themes but the writing was a lot better, there was far less unnecessary description (phew what a mouthfull) and more focus on what was important, rather than discussing each very-boring item in a room, Cayla Kluver directed her attention onto the characters and the current scene that is taking place.

The story was better developed and there was a lot more action than in the previous book, although there were several gob-smacking twists, it all flowed very nicely. The plot was once again very unpredictable, with people dropping dead like flies and others fighting for justice! (hahaha that sounds so cheesy). The enemies were closer than ever, and the threats were very real. There was also the appearance of magic in this book, in Legacy, the characters were only hinting at such a force, but you actually get to see it in action in Allegiance.

I found that Alera actually puts her money where her mouth is, and is useful (occasionally). Hmmm... She's willing to step up to new things now for the sake of others and (dare I say?) is actually growing a backbone. Still quite naive, and stubborn. Alera is a little too soft, and is unwilling to sacrifice some things/ people for the good of others. She seems to hold onto some things(as useless as they are)for dear life whilst dropping others carelessly. I can give her the credit for trying to help, and yes as mentioned before, she sometimes does. I like to think that Alera is growing a little more with each book, gaining more experience, becoming stronger, and hopefully this is the case :)

I'm really liking the members of the elite guards, they're all so unique and I reckon they're more interesting than Alera! London, is of course my favourite, why wouldn't he be? he's mysterious and loyal, he's been through much but still pushes on, and he's always the one that ends up saving the others, even if it means giving up his own life.

The romance, ah the romance...
I was without a doubt curious about the marriage between Alera and Steldor, but it wasn't how I quite expected it, sure they have their jabs at each other and their little childish spats but Steldor is actually quite nice.

**dun dun duuuuuuun** Signalling the end of the world :)

But seriously, Steldor is far nicer a character, and he's changed so much. It makes the way Alera acted seem completely cruel, like kicking a little puppy, because in Allegiance, Steldor reveals a kinder more compassionate side. I was actually hoping that Alera would turn to Steldor and just forget Narian, who was absent for much of the book, but no such luck **sigh**, it would have been a nice change to see Alera with Steldor...

Overall, a very intriguing read, and now I really want to learn what happens in Sacrifice, the turn of events in Allegiance is astonishing!

Legacy by Cayla Kluver

16 years ago, the bloody war between the Kingdoms of Hytanica and Cokyri ended abruptly, but not on peaceful terms. The ruthless Cokyrians unexpectedly withdrew from battle, but not without a final act of coldblooded murder, 49 newborn boys were taken from their cradles, their lifeless bodies strewn outside the city walls. But a mystery surrounds the story for only 48 bodies were returned.

17 year old crown Princess Alera, lives in peace and safety within the castle walls, knowing nothing of the hardships of war. But her father, the King, feels the strain after 30 long years on the throne and demands that Alera find a man, a husband, fit to rule, though it seems he means one man in particular, a man Alera detests: Lord Steldor.

It seems that fighting off the unwanted advances of Lord Steldor is Alera's biggest problem, but when a series of confusing and confronting events leads to the arrival of Cokyrian raised Narian, Alera finds herself challenging everything she's known.

A war draws near with the Cokyrians, and Alera, with her heart divided between duty and love, must make a decision before the Kingdom is destroyed.


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Legacy was a very captivating story, woven with great artistry and imagination. The idea behind the story was one very different from books I've read before, and it just kept on giving, just when you think you've got it all worked out... BAM!!! something jumps out and crushes your theory into a bajilion smithereens. I found myself really enjoying the story, though I thought the pace lagged a little in the middle. The writing was good, but I found that the descriptions piled on top of one another, and often repeated themselves, it was a tad overwhelming.

I was completely enthralled by the prologue though, it was simply put, brilliant. The first couple of lines had my eyes glued to the page. Cayla Kluver managed to use the right combination of words and setting. it was darn creepy, as (hopefully) was intended, but it also left an air of mystery.

Alera was a very fitting protagonist, as Princess she is obviously very privileged but she doesn't take advantage of her wealth or status (much :D hehehe) So no, she's not too spoilt (although she's a little whiney).
I like how she's eager to challenge the positions and jobs associated with women, and embrace new things. Alera is rebellious by Hytanican standards and refuses to bow under the pressure of her father, or at least tries to. Though she maybe be a rebel, she can also be loyal. At times she seems a little misguided, though her intentions are always honest and noble. Her curious nature often gets her into trouble, but she's stubborn (in a good way) and doesn't back down easily.
Alera's love life is a jumble! It seems that though she may be in love with Narian, she has some sort of mixed feelings for Steldor, because though she may say she detests him, she still likes his smell :) hehehehe
Reading about Alera was undoubtedly fascinating and entertaining.

The other characters were very well written. And Alera's two suitors couldn't be more different which makes the story just that little bit more interesting.
Steldor is arrogant, big headed, narcissistic... whatever you want to call it. But the trouble with him, is that he has a nicer, more charming side to him... Whilst Narian is an enigma, his past is a mystery... everything about him is unknown but he's thoughtful and gives his full undivided attention to Alera, doesn't treat her like an inferior woman.
Ah! decisions decisions decisions...
Alera's relationship to her bodyguard London is also very different, and I really enjoyed being introduced to all the different members of the Elite Guard.

I can't wait dive into the unique fantasy world once more in Allegiance!