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His redemption might be her downfall…

Tristan has nothing left to lose. His best friend’s betrayal cost him everything. Now, he’s going to take it back. All he has to do to get the Hawks reinstated to their rightful position at the palace is track down the traitor’s younger sister and turn her over for execution. But Nim’s not the girl Tristan left behind years ago; she’s a stubborn, loyal, beautiful woman, and he can’t stop himself from wanting her.

Nim fled with nothing when the king’s favorite came for her. All she has left is the conviction that her brother is innocent—and her determination to free him. She’ll do anything…even if it means convincing Tristan to help her. But the man he’s become is a far cry from the boy she fell in love with so long ago. He’s formidably stern and deeply untrusting. She’ll just have to hope he still has a heart under that battle-scarred exterior.

When love and duty collide, will Tristan follow his orders or follow his heart?

Tristan, book 1 in The Hawks series, is a sexy, steamy, adult fantasy romance full of swords, shifters (kind of), and tons of action. But fair warning: This book is intended only for readers who love fast-paced adventure, soul mates and found family—and characters who curse when they fight for survival. If that’s you, happy reading.

 

ebook

First published February 22, 2021

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About the author

Jennie Lynn Roberts

12 books48 followers
Jennie Lynn Roberts believes that every kickass heroine should have control of her own story, a swoony hero to fight beside her, and a guaranteed happily ever after. Because that doesn’t always happen in real life, she began creating her own worlds that work just the way they should. And she hasn’t looked back since.

Jennie would rather be writing than doing anything else—except for spending time with her gorgeous family, of course. But when she isn’t building vibrant new worlds, she can be found nattering with friends, baking up a storm, or strolling in the woods around her home in England.

If you want to talk books, romance, movies, reluctant heroes, or just about anything else with Jennie, feel free to contact her on Facebook or Instagram But be prepared to settle in for a long chat if you bring up shifters, vampires, Star Wars, or The Princess Bride….


You can find out more and sign up for newsletter updates at:
https://jennielynnroberts.com/

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
Profile Image for Sadie Forsythe.
Author 1 book279 followers
March 26, 2021
3.5

I generally enjoyed this. The writing is eminently readable, editing pretty clean, it has a gorgeous cover, and I liked the characters and the dynamic of the Hawks in general. I only really have one big complaint and a couple small ones.

My biggest complaint is the cliched use of rape to signal evil. I swear to the Goddess, I sometimes think authors have been told there is no other way to make someone truly evil, like this is required to be included or something. What's more, it's too often used as a proxy. Want the reader to know this character is evil, but don't want to develop him? Just make him try and rape someone. No need for more; the reader will follow  the signal. But, as a reader, I don't want a proxy or a signal. I don't want something to stand in for character development and tell me a character is evil. I want to understand that character and their evil.

Roberts is guilty of that here. She wanted the king, his chancellor, and the guards to be evil. So, she made them all open, sadistic rapists. (Though there is no on-page rape, thank goodness.) Sure, I understand that the king is supposed to have created an atmosphere that allowed others to do as he himself does, maybe even surrounded himself with like-minded men. But it was just ridiculous and angering as a female reader. I want better from authors, especially female authors. There are so many other, more subtle ways to make a character evil. Why keep bashing us with this blunt instrument?

My first smaller complaint is that the love is insta (at least for the reader). Which I find especially amusing because the author says, "This book is intended only for readers who love slow burn romance, fast-paced adventure, soul mates and found family..." I wholly disagree that this is a slow burn. I literally laughed out loud when I read that sentence. The soul mates part makes more sense. The romance is a lot more like shifters finding their mates. The beast knows, and all that. I'd call it a lot closer to insta-love than a slow burn. A LOT closer.

Lastly, the main characters kept trying to sacrifice themselves for each-other, for example, "She had to get out. Get to Grendal. Hand herself in. Save Tristan..." when it was very clear that the villains would kill both, not one or the other. They were clearly dealing with individuals who were not going to let one go if they had the other. So, the fact that both characters repeatedly overlooked this obvious fact and kept trying to trade themselves irritated me. As did the contrived misunderstanding about Keely, at the end.

But really, other than the rape thing (which is huge for me and probably, sadly, one of my most common criticisms in reviews, which tells you something about why it needs to be pointed out if it's that problematically frequent in general), I have very little to criticize. I enjoyed Tristan and will happily read another Roberts book.
Profile Image for Justine (bookshelf_fairy).
127 reviews2 followers
February 21, 2021
Thank you to Jennie Lynn Roberts for giving me the chance to read her book for an honest review. Tristan is the first debut Novel of a new series. And it did not disappoint.

The world building and descriptive writing was just enthralling. The troupes in this book were just perfect and the characters history and relationships felt palpable throughout the pages. I love a book where there is a strong sense of brotherhood of loyalty, trust. The Hawks ( Tristan's men) story builds up throughout the book, where we see snippets of their own stories to come.
After years of waring between kingdoms, peace has finally arrived, only to be stumped out by a traitor to the crown. Tristan loses everything, his best friend has betrayed him and destroyed his life as well as the lives of the Hawks. At this point Tristan is certain he couldn't lose anything else. Until the day he is given orders to hunt down his best friends sister Nim.

Nim is desperate to prove her brother's innocences. Even if it means walking to her death to prove it. Can she convince the man she fell in love with all those years ago to help her.

There is an undercurrent in this story and it is all about trust. Tristan has given his life for a king and kingdom, but when he is faced with lies and deceit who can he trust, when answers are not very clear.

I loved Tristan's story in the book, abandoned , betrayed, fighting against his better judgment.
This is an adult fantasy tale. The following books will be about each member of the Hawks.

Profile Image for Adela Cacovean .
254 reviews545 followers
May 12, 2021
Trigger warning for the book: rape

Actual rating: 3.5

The Hawks by Jennie Lynn Roberts is a series of Adult Fantasy Romance books, each focusing on a different member of the Hawks (a group of Blue Coats or Palace Guards).

So far, each book gets its title from the male it focuses on. Book one is about Tristan, a Tarasque who feels betrayed when his best friend Val is accused of treason and sentenced to death after killing the king and having an affair with the Princess. As a reader, I found everything about that incident to be obvious and guessed from the start the actual culprit and how the events took place, though not all the details. However, this didn't make the book unenjoyable. On the contrary, I found it to be very action-packed and the Romance was sweet, believable, not your typical insta-love since the characters knew each other from childhood. They are not perfect, but they care a lot about each other and theirs is a relationship based on trust. When one of them thinks the other has betrayed them, they soon realize the bigger picture and are able to get back up and out of difficult situations, not getting into pointless childish fights.

For me, the series would've been a whole lot better with more world-building. I am a sucker for anything Fantasy, especially Fae books so seeing the cover for these, I jumped at the opportunity to read them and take part in this virtual book tour. I was surprised, however, that there is no focus on the Fantasy aspects of the story. The author didn't use the name Fae or Fairy to describe her supernatural beings, but there are a few unique names mentioned such as Nephilim (some kind of truth/mind reader), Tarasque (who have an inner beast and can partially? transform into it when they get angry like claws getting out) or winged-type ones which I forgot the name of. But you have to figure most of it out yourself since there is no clear explanation while you are getting introduced to different characters, you're just putting everything together. Something I found strange was how little these supernatural abilities play a part in the story. Nim's and Val's wings sometimes have to be hidden to avoid them being recognized or they get mentioned for making Nim looking pretty in a scene and they are obviously crucial a few times for... well, flying purposes. Tarasque characters sometimes have their scales visible, colors varying from character to character, and their claws get out when they lose control of the "beast inside" but I didn't find the power being used to its full potential. Nephilim are literally a walking truth serum/mind reader and they only used their power once or twice which was frustrating since it could've saved them a lot of screw-ups with trusting the wrong people or not trusting the right ones from the start.

The history of the world is also a bit rushed. "Six generations ago, a young Brythorian princess had married a Verturian prince in a political attempt to tie the kingdom into one great nation." She dies during childbirth and Verturia is accused of murdering her. Why would they think that? I don't know, I guess they either had no common sense or were just looking for an excuse to choose violence. The war kept escalating every year and after being unsuccessful at winning for many years, king Geraint of Brythoria wanted to end it by marrying his son Ballanor to Princess Alanna of Verturia. And things get messy from here because Ballanor has daddy issues and wants the war to go on so he can prove just what a badass motherf... he is a better ruler than his father.

Despite these issues, the books are thoroughly enjoyable and for me a breath of fresh air after reading mostly YA Fantasy lately. The characters are mature, the story is very action-packed and when there is no fight or scheming involved, it focuses on the relationships between the Hawks as friends as well as the relationship between each of the male and their lover. I recommend it to those looking for a page-turner.
Profile Image for Lois Jackman.
Author 1 book3 followers
March 4, 2021
*Tristan ARC Review! No Spoilers*

Overall: 4/5. This is an enjoyable read!

Storyline: ‘Tristan’ has a solid, engaging storyline that is both sensical and compelling! I enjoyed it. Also, I found the romantic scenes to be well-written and engaging, which is high praise from me as I think intimate scenes are some of the hardest to write well—Jennie has done a refreshingly great job with these scenes!

Characters: I loved Tor and Mathos in particular. At first, Nim got on my nerves a little as she was ruled by her (often wild) emotions to the point of putting herself and others in danger. BUT, it works for this story because she is balanced out by rational and collected characters, and, when it counts, she redeems herself by using cool logic and focus.

Grammar, etc: There are a few syntax & grammar errors throughout the book, but they aren’t overly distracting, and they didn't detract from my experience. I think that I noticed them only because I proof and edit for a writer-friend, so I’m always subconsciously looking for errors!

My favourite thing about the book: I love the thought that went into the creation of the different races, e.g. the mabin. Also, everything about Mathos' character!

One thing I would change: I wish ‘Gods’ was used less frequently. IMO, it would have much more impact if used sparingly, especially since it’s the narrator who says this and not a character saying/speaking it.

Would I recommend this book: Yes, to any fan of adult fantasy.

Would I consider reading the next book in the series: Yes.

Bottom line: It's a good book!
Well done, Jennie, and thank you for providing me with an ARC!
Profile Image for CC Albert.
13 reviews
February 27, 2021
This! THIS is the story I did not realize I have been craving! A beautifully written fantasy with heart pounding action, fiendish plots, and chemistry for days? Shut up and take my money!

I love this book. Every character (from the loyal, straitlaced Tristan and his fellow Hawks, to the infinite badass that is Nim, to the graceful fortitude of Queen Alanna) is brimming with personality and voice. Even the antagonists were characters that I very much enjoyed hating. From the get-go, these bastards were so skin-crawlingly slimy that I absolutely could not wait to see them get their teeth kicked in. 

The world-building is damn near flawless,  as well. Roberts does an excellent job of sprinkling in information on the different races and customs at play here. The significance of certain tattoos, physical characteristics of each being, and even the meaning of different uniforms was all delivered to the reader in a way that never felt boring. In fact, it left me wanting more!

And I live for the main couple! Tristan and Nim have such palpable chemistry. The deep love and tenderness they share for each other really has you rooting for them and makes the terrible situation they're in all the more nail-biting. And we didn't even have to play the will-they-won't-they game! Well, maybe a little, but not that much. 

All in all, this book scratched a definite itch for me, and any adult-fantasy lover would be foolish not to pick it up. 
Profile Image for Renee (BookLoveWithRenee).
271 reviews16 followers
March 2, 2021
Tristan ● Hawks Book 1
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
@jennielynnroberts_author

When Jennie reached out to me about reading her book, I was hesitant. I've always thought fantasy/PNR/shifters tropes are not my thing (not sure why because I've loved the ones I've been asked to read). Well, once again, I was proved wrong. This book was different from everything I usually read, but I absolutely loved it.

It is set in a medieval type world. Tristan & his friend Val are guards of the palace. After Val is believed to be behind an attack on the king, he's held captive & sentenced to death. Tristan is ordered to retrieve Nim, Val's little sister, and bring her for execution as well. Things change & truths are revealed. Tristan, Nim, and the rest of the Hawks work together to rescue Val from the castle.

Authors, like Jennie, who write fantasy/PNR always amaze me. It blows my mind they are able to create entire worlds based on fantasy. The first half of the book is a little slow going, but I couldn't put it down for the 2nd half. Tristan & Nim's love and dedication to each other is beautiful. The loyalty of the Hawks to each other is touching. I definitely recommend this book! It's a great way to escape from reality into a different world for awhile. Looking forward to Val's story in book 2.
Profile Image for S.L. Prater.
Author 16 books224 followers
April 10, 2022
A friend of mine sent me this quote from the book Tristan by Jennie Lynn Roberts:

"He pushed himself up, ready to demand an explanation when he realized that he was completely naked. He hesitated, trying to decide whether it was worth punching Tristan with his dick hanging out. Yes. He took a step forward, it would definitely be worth it."

I knew in an instant that I had to read this one, and I'm so glad I did. The humor and action implied in this quote paint an accurate picture of the entire novel. There are enough sword and adventure moments to please you romantic fantasy fans, and plenty of second chance romance/unrequited love vibes for fantasy romance readers (like me--give me all the kissing books). Tristan is a strong, warrior-type hero with all the growly, loyal-to-a-fault character traits I adore.

Quick blurb: Tristan is captain of the Hawks (guard). He's sent to track down Nim, his best friend's sister, who's destined to be executed along with her traitor brother. Twist: Nim and Tristan loved each other as children. They've grown into different people, but the sparks are still flying and their chemistry is electric . . .

This is an adult fantasy romance with scorching levels of on-page steam. Tristan likes the F word--I do too, but if that's not your thing, keep it in mind. Check out that pretty cover. It beautified my e-reader library nicely. I got it off Kindle Unlimited. It's the first book in a series.
Profile Image for The Lusty Literarians.
799 reviews43 followers
March 26, 2022
Wonderful!

Great start to a series. I liked that Tristan is a unique paranormal character. I also really liked that Nim and the other ladies were strong and did heroic things, even though Tristan and the Hawks were the guards and military guys. The story was fast paced and once I started reading it I couldn’t stop! The side characters were also interesting enough to want to continue the series. 4 1/2 stars!

Check out Bonded Books Podcast for our episode on this book!


Profile Image for Merissa (Archaeolibrarian).
3,749 reviews108 followers
July 26, 2021
TRISTAN is the first book in The Hawks series and be prepared to lose your heart to every single one of these men!!!

After many years of war, a chance of peace happens, before betrayal takes over. This devastates Tristan as it looks -- and he is told by his king -- that his best friend is one of those responsible. He is sent away from the main city as penance for 'allowing' the old king to die. Whilst he and his men are gone, lots of changes take place, and none of them good.

What a brilliant story!!! Now, as an unbiased reader, I can tell you I was shouting at my kindle when Tristan believed the prince. I mean, come on, but Tristan was honourable and loyal, and his vow to the king was everything. Nim is Val's sister and believes him to be innocent. Of course, this may have something to do with the way she is treated by the king and his chancellor. When she escapes them, the only thought in her mind is to save her brother. Once she is captured by Tristan and his men, things get really interesting.

The world-building is simply sublime! Details are given in passing that you won't even need to think about, just because they simply are! Wings, scales, healing, you name it. I just want to know more! It is a fast-paced story that takes you on a steamy, and sometimes violent, adventure - where good is good and bad is downright horrible.

As a first book in a series, it's amazing. As a debut novel, it's astounding. I was captured by this world, and the characters who live there, and I really can't wait for more. Absolutely fantastic and highly recommended by me.

** same worded review will appear elsewhere **

* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *

Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
4 reviews2 followers
February 14, 2021
What an enthralling book, I could not put it down. An absolutely brilliant first book from a new author in the fantasy genré. The characters are gripping from the start, as is their world, all not quite earthly, but endowed with the same human heroism, weakness and passions when in love.
Profile Image for Mama Rednax.
90 reviews3 followers
November 24, 2022
Where is book 2, I must know what happens next!

This one started very slowly for me. The world that Ms. Roberts built didn't come with a lot of explanation, we were just thrown head first into a world with shifters and faes. It was a turnoff in the beginning. I admittingly never read the blurb or anything about the book, I just saw a pretty cover and started reading.

Then, when Tristan is sent to look for Nim, everything starts getting interesting, and then BAM! Like a firecracker, the book explodes into action. I couldn't put it down. I read while I ate and stayed up way too late reading it.

***Spoiler Alert***
Tristan is the leader of a special forces team tasked with protecting the royals. When ambushed, Tristan fails to keep the king alive, and those who survived the ambush are stripped of their title and sent off to do grunt work by the Prince. Tristan's best friend, Val, has been tasked with protecting the princess and is accused of conspiracy and trussed up like a traitor.

When the Prince and his advisor go after Val's little sister, they tell Tristan if he brings her in that they will reinstate him to special forces. At first, Tristan doesn't question anything, believing his superiors in their accusations, but when he falls for his best friend's baby sister, he suddenly starts seeing the signs that he's been lied to.

Will he and his men be able to get to Val? The castle where they once served has gone from beautiful to seedy as the new guards are rapists and sadists. There are new fortifications and more guards than ever before making the task of getting out alive slim.

Betrayed by one of his own, Nim is taken hostage and sent to be hanged in the morning after being subjected to the villain and his henchmen.

Nim, the princess, and a handmaid fight back against the prince and his advisor and race through the castle, trying to avoid being captured. They stumble on Val and struggle to get him free of his chains before retreating back into hiding.

Meanwhile, Tristan and his men are storming the castle looking for Nim. When they finally find them, it seems like their luck is changing as they escape out of the castle. They escape to a small farm, but they are only given a moment of rest before they are discovered.

Hiding Val and the women in the mill, Tristan takes the fall for the mission and is being dragged back to the castle to hang as a traitor while his men are burned alive.

Nim, being stubborn and self-sacrificing, comes out of hiding and is able to rescue the men from the burning farmhouse. Then, with two of the men, Nim rushes to save Tristan and ends up with a blade to her throat.

Having hidden Tristan's dagger in her clothing, Nim waits for an opening, and as Tristan takes out the other men, she stabs the man who tried on several occasions to assault her.

We're left with a happy moment for Tristan and Nim, but Val is finally awake and insisting they rescue the princess.

Can the special forces team do the impossible for a second time? Will they make it there in time to save the princess? There is zero time for Val to heal. How is he ever going to have the strength to save the day?!

Now if you'll excuse me, I have a book 2 to read!
Profile Image for Michelle .
2,054 reviews290 followers
March 25, 2021
Tristan is the first book in The Hawks series by Jennie Lynn Roberts. The Hawks series is an adult fantasy romance series that is full of action and plenty of swoony romance. I really enjoyed Tristan and I can't wait to continue on with the series. If you are fan of fantasies that have wonderfully feisty characters, a twisty turny plot, and great world building with a steamy romance to boot, then Tristan is the perfect book for you to check out. This is the first book I have read from author Jennie Lynn Roberts, but I know it won't be my last because she sucked me right into the world she created and I fell in love with her characters hardcore. This was an excellent book. I loved Tristan.

In Tristan we meet out main characters, Tristan and Nim. Tristan has just suffered a major upheaval and betrayal all in one. I loved how honorable Tristan is, even if it does mean that he comes off as a little rigid and uptight. Honestly, it made me relate to him even more because he was that way. Nim is like the opposite of Tristan. She is all fiery emotions, not to mention she can really kick butt! This is definitely a case of opposites attract, because Nim and Tristan has scorching hot chemistry right form the beginning. When I read my first scene with both of them in it, I knew that I was going to be a sucker for the romance.

As much as I loved the characters and the romance, the world building really shone in Tristan. I loved the way that Jennie Lynn Roberts gave the reader information. She scattered it throughout the story in such a way that didn't leave us in the dark but also didn't overwhelm us with an info dump. It was perfect in my opinion and it made the world feel rich and come to life. A central part of this world are the guys that make up the Hawks. I loved learning about each of them, and I can't wait to see them in future installments in the series. They each had such distinct personalities that it was a pleasure to get to know them as a group. I always admire a strong sense of friendship and these guys have that in spades. I think my favorite so far (other than Tristan) is Val, who is Nim's brother. Which brings us to the plot of Tristan. The current king accuses Val of Treason, and Nim steps in to clear her brother's name. This thrusts her in Tristan's path because he was the one that had to arrest Val for Treason.  I really enjoyed the politics in this book as well. Things are heating up between two of the kingdoms and there are plenty of lies, twists turns and untrustworthy characters to suss out while reading. If you know me, you know I a love a good political system in my fantasy worlds, so this was right up my alley. If you are fan of wonderful world building, a great gang of friends and fantastic romance, I think the Hawks series is going to be an adult fantasy series that you won't want to miss. I loved Tristan and I can't wait to read book 2!
Profile Image for Cristina Machado.
68 reviews7 followers
February 20, 2021
Tristan is first in a new Fantasy Romance series by new author Jennie Lynn Roberts. I’m simply delighted to discover this new voice in fantasy and this new series, because it features some tropes I love in fantasy: a) a brotherhood of charming and valiant guys – The Hawks - we all go to know and adore during the series; b) a consistent medievalesque setting with some magical connections; c) glimpses of future stories and characters during the prime narrative. For all this I would already be loving the tale, but I can say that I fell in love even more when I discovered the childhood love story between Tristan and Nim. Young partners in crime, Tristan, Nim and Val (a member of Hawks brotherhood and hero of second book in the series), grow up living a relationship of deep friendship, punctuated by the childish adoration of Val's sister, Nim, by her brother's friend. However, the compromises of Tristan and Val with their lives in the royal army of Brythoria and the politic intrigues of the time end up creating a conflict. Val is accused of treason and Tristan is forced to arrest Nim as a participant in her brother's felony. Obliviously, everything is a big lie orchestrated by Brythoria's unscrupulous new sovereign. Tristan then frees Val and Nim, of whom he seeks to rescue trust and for whom he finds himself hopelessly in love. Then they escape with the other Hawks, seeking to hide from the king and his allies.The narrative is full of action and details of the political intrigues between the kingdoms of Brythoria and Verturia and the world building is largely marked by the relations among three magical kinds of people: the tarasques (those with the legacy of a beast in their blood, like Tristan); the mabin (those with wings and who can flying, like Val and Nim), the appolions (tattooed strong building beings) and nephilim. About these two last, I hope Jennie will tell us more in next books. I’m excited now to read the other stories in the series, especially because, in the end of Tristan, the author already teased us with the synopses of the next two books, which will be about Val and Mathos. Really hope to know more also about two favorite of mine, the caring Jos and the seductive Reece, they promise great stories in future. I only suggest the author that, in next books, she brings maps and short explanations about the world she created, such as, for example, who are the nephilim and the appolion. This is always useful when we are reading fantasy. In all, The Hawks is a series that already conquered my heart and which I cannot fail to recommend to anyone who loves romantic fantasy with medieval flavor, lots of action and consistent world building.
I received an ARC for an honest review.




Profile Image for DebbieReadsBooks.
2,517 reviews42 followers
March 17, 2021
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.

This book, right? This book is bloody AMAZING!!

I mean, this is the author's first book, that I can see, and it blew me away, it really did.

It's told from Nim and Tristan's point of view, with two others getting a say for a short time. They have clear and concise voices, and you get the setting of this world in dribs and drabs. You do NOT get everything all at once, and I really loved being able to process every little bit as and when it came at me.

And you can process it, just in time for the next bit to be thrown at you. And I really LOVED getting thrown at! I can't tell you how much I love being able to take steps into a new world a bit at a time, I really can't.

There is something much bigger going on here, that is revealed, I'm sure. The clues are there, I think, but I'm not sure I put it all together in the way it's meant to be put together. I mean, SOME things are totally clear, but it's the other bits and pieces that are a little fuzzy and I love that they are, cos I NEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEED the next book to make things unclear!

Tristan and Nim's story is dark and deadly, and somewhat graphic in it's violence in places, but it really is needed, for you to get what has happens to the Blues since the ambush and death of their king. There is passion and love here, but it's not especially explicit, but as much as the violence IS needed, the sex is NOT. You get all you need between Nim and Tristan with what is here.

The people in this world are varied and different, with their own skills and powers and traits unique to their race. Some hints about dragons and Nephilim. Wings for Nim, her brother Val and a couple of Tristan's men. Those things are just *there*, you know? You don't get a big long winded explanation, just Nim stretched her wings. And I loved that!

Like I said, I bloody LOVED this book, and if this really IS this author's first book, she nailed it! Absolutely NAILED it and I cannot wait to see what comes next. I know that Val is next, Nim's brother, and given what happens to him in this book, I think that one might be a much more difficult read.

5 full and shiny stars

**same worded review will appear elsewhere**

Profile Image for Cranky - The Book Curmudgeon.
2,091 reviews153 followers
February 23, 2021
5 Cranky Stars


This is a story of evil kings, armies and love. Tristan is Captain of the Palace Guard and his best friend is Val who was promoted to Princess Alanna's personal guard. They were members of the Hawk company and proud of it. They loved working for the King and protecting him and his family. Their loyalty knew no limits. One morning the King, his daughter-in-law Princess Alanna and the Guard went to a secret spot to meet a representative from the Princess's family. They were to discuss a Treaty between the two countries that the marriage was a part. However, things went badly. First, Prince Ballanor canceled at the last moment so that is why the King went to the meeting. When they got there, they set up and started waiting. The diplomat was late so the Princess wanted to walk in the field. Val of course accompanied her, while the others guarded the king. Then they were all shot at with arrows. Poor King Geraint received a mortal wound. Many of the Guard were killed as a hasty retreat was made. Val pulled the Princess onto his horse and rode off. That was the end of life as everyone knew it. Prince Ballanor and his Assistent were ruthless rulers. They demoted the Hawks to foot soldiers and when they found Val and the Princess, Val was sentenced to death for treason. The Princess was suspected as setting up the whole assassination. As things kept deteriorating, Tristan found out that the hunt was on for Val's younger sister. The word was that she was his accomplice too. Well, the story is about Tristan and Nim. Tristan truly believes that Val is guilty but Nim knows he is innocent. Tristan and his fellow soldiers go on the search and when they find her, a new story ensues.


This is a must read love story with lots of evil pulling the two apart and then reuniting them. I can't wait for more books in this series as the characters are so diverse and honorable.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Lea Queen.
196 reviews2 followers
March 10, 2021
Two words: Disastrously amazing!
It’s not just a story, it’s an…an emotion!! Tristan is the story of our enigmatic leads Tristan and the angelic Nim. Tristan , the leader of the Hawks , is told by his present king that his best mate and personal guard of Princess Alana of Verturia , Lanval ,has commited treason and was found to have helped in plotting the murder assault of their previous king. Feeling betrayed and hurt by his friend’s act and the resulting demotion of the Hawks to cavalry, Tristan is bloodthirsty for catching and punishing all involved in the scheme. But when the King’s chancellor orders him to catch Lanval’s only family left, his sister Nim, Tristan’s resolve starts to flatter a little. Not only is she ,the sister of his once best mate but she is also the child whose father sheltered him and gave him the love of a family.
The story is strung around the emotions that flare when they meet , the misinformation, the doubts that shadow them and make them consider and reconsider the other’s loyalty at each and every step.
But what I liked most about the story was the beautiful way in which the words were woven , the way in which the protagonist’s emotions were expressed. In today’s time, when fantasy is shifting more towards world building, the author has amazingly focused on the descriptions of the mind too, making us feel, and that too, deeply , each and every aspect of the lead character’s emotions.
I cried and laughed with Nim and Tristan, and felt their anger , their insecurities, as if they were my very own! Also, though the dual narration is a little difficult to grasp at first, but as the story progresses, it is the very aspect that makes us enjoy the story more and more!!!
Altogether an amazing and highly recommended read to all the fantasy and romance lovers out there!!!!
Profile Image for Steph.
17 reviews
October 3, 2022
For me this was the perfect mixture of everything I want to read in this genre. Enough believable and evocative world building without going into excessive detail and strange people and place names that confuse. The plot is detailed yet spare enough. The brotherhood of these men I found irresistibly described. Each man’s personality believable, mixture of vulnerability and strength in balance. Real men without the taint of alpha-hole-itis. Loyal and sexy. Profoundly insightful. Wonderful female characters. Strong. (Without being in any way shape or form annoying as can be the case when feisty women are written about.) And the slow burn was just right and the steam was in the right place and perfectly, 100% spot on in my opinion. Mentioning the steam content feels like —should I mention it, should I leave it out? Personally I feel like it’s so important to this genre. Otherwise I’d be reading Dickens.(whom I also love, but you know what I mean) This is on page steam, descriptive, yet not gratuitous and perfectly timed within the HEA arc. How often have I read steamy scenes thinking … really? Why is he not paying attention to X part of her body? Or it’s just weirdly off or vulgar. Or it’s too tame. Jennie Lynn Roberts, in my opinion, has it 100% spot on. I am hooked on this series and have been reading it non stop since I picked up this first in series. (I also read a free copy of Kaden having signed up to the author’s newsletter, which comes before this book and is a short, sweet read.)PERFECTION. All the stars. Plus
Profile Image for Rita.
294 reviews1 follower
August 11, 2021
Mit Tristan hab ich mein erstes Buch der Autorin gelesen und ich hab es sehr genossen. Perfekt für alle Romantasy Fans mit verschiedenen Wesen, einer starken Prota und jeder Menge beschützerischer Jungs ;)

Die Geschichte beginnt mit den Hawks und man bekommt einen Einblick in die Welt, wie alles anfängt und um wen es eigentlich geht. Wie der Titel verrät, ist Tristan einer der Hawks, einer Gruppe Beschützer, der Royal Guard, welche einen schweren Verrat hinnehmen müssen .. oder auch nicht? Denn da kommt Nim, die Schwester eines Hawks ins Spiel und kämpft um dessen Ehre und versucht, Geheimnisse aufzudecken.

Hier prallen Welten aufeinander, denn obwohl sich Tristan und Nim kennen, vertrauen sie sich anfangs jedoch nicht, da beide an eine jeweils andere Wahrheit glauben. Aber im Laufe der Reise kommen sie sich näher, und werden mehr und mehr zu einem Team.
Natürlich darf hier ein broody Mann nicht fehlen, eine Frau, welche um die Liebe kämpft und ganz viel Humor und Banter :D

Das Buch ist sicherlich nicht tiefgründigst, aber ich hab es genossen zu lesen, und ich mag die fast-paced Romance :)

Die Reise an sich ist für Tristan und Nim abgeschlossen, aber das Abenteuer selber noch nicht. Buch 2 behandelt den nächsten Hawk - ich freu mich drauf.
Profile Image for Gunvor.
37 reviews
January 17, 2023
As this is the first book in a series, it was a little hard to start it, as there is no real explanation of the world that we are in, which makes the first few chapters a little hard to read, but slowly as the story develops it gets easier to understand the world and the different characters.

Tristan is loyal to his job and his king. So loyal that it almost costs him his friend and brother his life. Not to mention the best friend's sister. At least he is man enough to admit when he is wrong and then he shows why he is the Captain of the Hawks and he leads his brothers/friends to safety.

Nim is a strong woman. Hurt and alone to begin with. Lucky for her, the Hawks find her and decide to believe her and therefore help her save her brother Val from hanging.

Meanwhile, Tristan and Nim fall for each other. Nim always secretly loved him, but finally, he realizes what a remarkable girl she is.

There is a lot of action in this book. It also has a few twists and turns where you are very surprised.
I can definitely recommend reading this book and this series.
Profile Image for Hendrik.
95 reviews6 followers
February 18, 2021
Jennie Lynn Roberts is a Debut Author and she didn’t disappoint with her first release, Tristan. Tristan is the first installment to The Hawks series and what a kick off. The story is well-written, easy to read and a page-turner. The setting of the story is interesting and attention driven. I was hooked from the first page.

Tristan has lost everything. His best friend’s betrayal has destroyed him. Hunting down the traitor’s sister, Nim, to have her executed alongside her brother. Nim is not the same girl she used to be. She is al grown up, stronger and more independent.

Nim will do anything to proof that her brother is innocent. She wants to convince Tristan to help her free her brother. Tristan is the opposite of a man she remembered and fell in love with. He has changed so much since joining The Hawks.

Tristan has an obligation towards the King. Will he go against his King’s orders or will he follow his heart?

I loved the journey of Tristan and Nim. The only thing in their way is trust.

We all face difficult decisions in life and are not always sure who to trust. Even the people close to you can betray you.

I cannot wait to continue with The Hawks series. I would recommend Tristan to all the Adult Fantasy Romance Readers.

A MUST READ.

Profile Image for Maria Fatma.
386 reviews4 followers
November 6, 2021
I really loved this book! It was pretty intense and even though I knew the characters would get their HEA, the stakes were still pretty high and I was on the edge of my seat the entire time. I felt all the emotions while reading this. Loved the romance between Tristan and Nim. I freaking adored the Hawks. They truly felt like a found family. The only minor critique that I have is that Tristan and Nim got together too soon for my liking but I didn't mind it that much. Also it made sense for them to get together so soon because clearly they had a lot of history. Overall I just had a great time with this and I'm excited to continue the series.
17 reviews1 follower
July 18, 2022
Amazing!!

With so many new books released every week, it’s hard to know which book and which author to read. Especially when it’s a new author. Sometimes it’s a win, sometimes it’s a loose. Tristan by Jennie Lynn Roberts was a win,and that makes me so very happy. Tristan is well written with an interesting and attention holding story line. I loved Tristen and Nim and all the supporting characters. I really, really enjoyed this story and I’m going to download the next book, Van, right now. Thank you Jennie for a wonderful story and a great new world.
Profile Image for Ene George.
Author 1 book
December 4, 2022
It's a relief to finally find an adult fantasy series with characters who are not teens. This was a fast fun read and easy to digest. There's nothing to over think here. Just dive in and enjoy a new fantasy world with characters that are different from the prototypical fae/shifter types. There's no real magic, just lots of fast paced action which I enjoyed. The romance is sweet and unlike some reviews I saw, is not 'insta love', as they've known each other practically all their lives and that's clear in the story.
Profile Image for Danielle.
34 reviews2 followers
April 21, 2022
This series is amazing, the character development and plot is just phenomenal. I read the entire series in a matter of days. I saw this book on a Facebook ad and figured I would give it a shot. I fell in love with Tristan and Nim, but the rest of the Hawk’s stories are just as amazing if not better. I would highly recommend.
Profile Image for M.
14 reviews
December 16, 2022
Yeah so I'm a sucker for a band of people who were brought together through duty and end up so incredibly loyal to one another that they will do anything to keep them safe... and that's exactly who the Hawks are.
Excellent beginning to a series, decent plot, interesting characters, some good spice. Written beautifully. Going to start book two, like, right now.
691 reviews6 followers
February 22, 2021
Great first book in series

This is a great first book in series...I would’ve like a little more world building and a little bit more character development.

However it was a great fast paced adventure to rescue someone and a romance as well.

Looking forward to next book
Profile Image for Bronwyn Lea.
Author 1 book29 followers
March 2, 2021
Fantasy is not usually my genre of choice but I loved being swept up into this world! Roberts has created a shimmering world with drama, complexity, and a good amount of sizzle. Will definitely look out for #2 of the hawks.
Profile Image for Malia Harvey.
8 reviews
April 20, 2022
I loved this! My absolute favorite part is that all the main women in this book are people you want to root for. All of the Hawks are amazing and redemption in this novel makes it end on such a high note that you HAVE to read the next one
29 reviews1 follower
November 29, 2023
I love the Hawks

Amazing world, incredible characters, stunning romance, and fantastic storytelling. Roberts is quickly becoming one of my favorite fantasy romance authors! Love Nim and Tristan together, and so eager to read the next book. The Hawks are amazing! 10/10 recommend
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