Reviewed by Eric Ferrar for Readers' Favorite

Courtney and Clarke Collins make a grand return with In the Name of Pride: Vows & Valor (Book 2). The story centers on Kaleela and her loyal guard-turned-partner, Dimitar, as they navigate the fallout of the first book's war. Kaleela is busy reconnecting with her elven relatives in the Sun’Din Forest, but it is far from a happy reunion. She has severe guilt over the magic sacrificed to save her life. Just as she is forced to face the man who murdered her in a formal trial, the political situation in the elven capital explodes. A faction of exiled elves, marked by clipped ears, has grown weary of the status quo and decides to seize the throne by force. Now, Kaleela must abandon her role as a passive royal and lead a counter-attack along with her father, King Kahled, and her motley crew of allies. Will Kaleela's struggle for identity and justice be enough to save her people from the rising rebellion?

Courtney and Clarke Collins's In the Name of Pride is a high-stakes epic fantasy that centers on the idea that every action has a heavy price. The plot focuses on the widening rift between humans and elves, creating an atmosphere that feels like a powder keg waiting to ignite. I found the secondary arcs compelling, especially that of Rialyn, the elven captain who serves as a vital sounding board for Kaleela's identity crisis. The romance between Kaleela and Dimitar kept me very engaged in the storyline, adding another layer of personal intrigue against the backdrop of all the political drama taking place. Additionally, the way Dimitar grapples with his own perceived failures adds a unique level of tension to their relationship. On the whole, the narrative development flows smoothly, making it easy to get lost in the story. The escalating hostility between the royal family and the radical exiles created a constant sense of suspense that kept me eagerly turning the pages. This sequel is a must-read if you're already hooked on Kaleela's journey. Recommended.