When King Arthur's reign of terror threatens to destroy the world, can Sterling and Scarlet use their divine blessings to banish him once and for all?
In the mystical continent of Primordia, two divine foxes, Sterling and Scarlet, are born from the ashes of a world scorched by King Arthur's fury.
When Sterling and Scarlet return a lost child to a village bordering the divine forest, they become curious about human life and grow attached to the little town.
But dark knights plunder the village, and Sterling and Scarlet must reveal their true selves to shield the townspeople from a harsh winter. They eventually rebuild and expand the town into a thriving citadel called Ravenheim.
However, even as Sterling and Scarlet's love blossoms, shadows loom: Prince Phillip, the son of King Arthur himself, rides into town with his retinue. Torn between his sense of duty and the allure of the charcoal-colored fox frequenting his dreams, will Phillip choose to aid or destroy Ravenheim?
As King Arthur's grief-stricken madness culminates, he calls on the devil Azazel. Can Sterling, Scarlet, and their allies protect their way of life? Or will the devil's shadow plunge the world into darkness?
When King Arthur's reign of terror threatens to destroy the world, can Sterling and Scarlet use their divine blessings to banish him once and for all?
In the mystical continent of Primordia, two divine foxes, Sterling and Scarlet, are born from the ashes of a world scorched by King Arthur's fury.
When Sterling and Scarlet return a lost child to a village bordering the divine forest, they become curious about human life and grow attached to the little town.
But dark knights plunder the village, and Sterling and Scarlet must reveal their true selves to shield the townspeople from a harsh winter. They eventually rebuild and expand the town into a thriving citadel called Ravenheim.
However, even as Sterling and Scarlet's love blossoms, shadows loom: Prince Phillip, the son of King Arthur himself, rides into town with his retinue. Torn between his sense of duty and the allure of the charcoal-colored fox frequenting his dreams, will Phillip choose to aid or destroy Ravenheim?
As King Arthur's grief-stricken madness culminates, he calls on the devil Azazel. Can Sterling, Scarlet, and their allies protect their way of life? Or will the devil's shadow plunge the world into darkness?
In the tranquil embrace of a new morning, the sun stretched its golden fingers across the sky, casting an enchanting tapestry of dawn that painted the world in shades of amber and rose. It was within this gentle awakening that Scarlet stirred from her slumber, cradled in the warmth of the sun's radiant embrace. Her dainty steps led her atop Sterling's head, rousing him from his own peaceful rest. As the world slowly came into focus, both foxes found themselves caught in a moment of surreal connection. They exchanged glances filled with disbelief and awe, their eyes mirroring the question that hung in the air like a shimmering secret: "Since when can we talk?" Their thoughts danced in unison, their silent conversation weaving threads of wonder into the fabric of their existence. It was a newfound ability, a gift that had blossomed like a rare and beautiful flower overnight. The world around them had undergone a profound shift, and the destiny that beckoned now brimmed with enigma and wonder. But their awakening was not without its trials. As they ventured deeper into the forest, the remnants of the king's army assault revealed themselves. Scorched earth and blackened trees bore witness to the devastation left in the wake of human greed. The forest told a story of pain, loss, and the scars of the past, and Scarlet and Sterling, with hearts as sensitive as they were powerful, couldn't help but feel the weight of it all. One day, their journey led them to a part of the forest still smoldering from the flames, a painful reminder of the inferno that had threatened to consume it. Scarlet, curious and brave, ventured too close, and before she knew it, the hungry flames surrounded her, their fiery tongues dancing with malevolent delight. Panic welled up within her as the inferno closed in, her vibrant red fur almost indistinguishable from the fiery backdrop. Sterling, a mixture of fear and determination coursing through him, tapped into a power he hadn't fully comprehended until now. With a focused thought and a deep breath, he summoned forth the frost's embraceâa cascade of ice and cold that enveloped Scarlet, extinguishing the flames and saving her from harm. As the last ember flickered out, the forest seemed to breathe a collective sigh of relief. The world stood still in awe of Sterling's newfound power, a power that had emerged out of sheer instinct and the fierce need to protect the one he loved. Scarlet, trembling but unharmed, gazed at Sterling with gratitude and a newfound sense of wonder. The forest around them, though scarred, seemed to pulse with life and resilience. It was as if the very land recognized the significance of this moment, the birth of a power that would shape the destiny of Primordia. Their journey had just begun, and with every step, the mysteries of their divine gifts unraveled like a carefully woven tapestry. They were now bound not only by love but also by destinyâa destiny intertwined with the fate of the forest, the creatures that called it home, and the lives they would touch. Together, Scarlet and Sterling embarked upon a path filled with enigmatic wonders, determined to protect the delicate balance of their world and the hearts that thrived within it. The blessings bestowed upon them by the benevolent gods had set them on a journey where every step brought them closer to understanding their extraordinary gifts and the profound purpose they held within Primordia's vast and mysterious embrace. As days turned into weeks, Scarlet and Sterling roamed through the forest, watching the land heal itself from the scars left by the king's army. They couldn't help but marvel at the swiftness of nature's recovery and the resilience of the forest they had sworn to protect. Even more astonishing, they discovered that their own wounds, no matter how minor, healed with a remarkable speed, as if the very essence of the forest had permeated their beings. Their newfound gifts, a blessing from the gods, seemed to grow stronger with each passing day. While Sterling's mastery over ice became more profound, Scarlet's abilities remained a carefully guarded secret. She had the power to peer into the hearts of beings, deciphering the intricate tapestry of emotions within. This unique gift allowed her to sense the feelings of those around her, to understand their pain, and to offer solace when needed. During their explorations in the forest, a remarkable encounter unfolded that would forever change the relationship between Scarlet, Sterling, and the villagers. As they ventured deeper into the woods, they stumbled upon a small, hidden hole in the ground. To their surprise, within that hole, they discovered a lost child from the nearby village, trembling with fear. Thinking quickly, Sterling utilized his extraordinary ice-manipulating abilities to craft a makeshift set of steps into the wall of the hole. With his gentle guidance, the frightened child was able to climb out to safety. However, the child was still overcome with anxiety. Scarlet, with her innate ability to sense the emotions of others, approached the child with great compassion. She encouraged the young one to nestle her head against her soft chest, soothing her fears with her comforting presence. In a gentle, reassuring tone, Scarlet spoke to the child, "Fear not, little one. We shall return you safely to your mother's loving embrace. Your heart longs for the warmth and love of your mother, and you need not worry. We are blessed by the gods, and it is our sacred duty to aid all creatures in the forest, including humans, when they are in need." With these comforting words, they carried the child back to the village, sitting together near the child's home. As they approached, they could hear the child's mother crying tears of relief and joy. She embraced her child tightly, overwhelmed with gratitude. The child, pointing to Scarlet and Sterling, said, "They are divine beings, blessed by the gods themselves. They helped me out of the hole and brought me safely back to you." Overwhelmed with gratitude, the mother expressed her heartfelt thanks to the two foxes. She couldn't find adequate words to convey her emotions, but her teary eyes spoke volumes. Scarlet and Sterling, deeply moved by the mother's love for her child, turned and made their way back into the forest. As they retreated into the depths of the forest, the foxes reflected upon the humans and their actions. Touched by the villagers' gestures of kindness and gratitude, they felt a growing sense of responsibility toward the village and its inhabitants. They made a silent vow to keep a watchful eye over the child and her family for the days to come. The following day, the children of the village, inspired by the divine beings they had encountered, banded together to construct a shrine near the border of the forest. They brought offerings of fresh fruits, bread, and other precious items, a heartfelt gesture of appreciation for the guardians of the woods. Scarlet and Sterling, from their hidden vantage point, observed this act of kindness with wonder. They were deeply touched by the villagers' actions and their gestures of respect. With grateful hearts, they accepted the offerings, partaking in the sustenance with a sense of appreciation for the humans' goodwill. One fateful night, they made their way to the village once more. This time, they ventured into the heart of the village square, where the sounds of laughter and music filled the air. Approachable and filled with humility, they addressed the gathered villagers. Scarlet spoke of the importance of love, empathy, and healing, while Sterling shared tales of his connection to the forest and his mastery over the element of ice. The villagers, spellbound by their words and the magic that seemed to surround them, were awestruck. They soon recognized that they were in the presence of beings blessed by the gods themselves. This encounter marked a pivotal moment in their relationship with the villagers, forging a deeper bond based on mutual respect and a shared commitment to the well-being of their cherished land. And so, beneath the celestial canopy of the night sky, an extraordinary connection was woven between the villagers and the divine guardians of Primordia, a connection rooted in gratitude and a shared vision of harmony between humans and nature. The celebration continued long into the night, a harmonious testament to the new understanding and unity that had blossomed within the hearts of all who were present. The night was still, and the village celebration had drawn to a close. Scarlet and Sterling retreated to the peaceful solitude of the forest, where they found themselves perched atop a sun-kissed rock. They gazed up at the heavens, their thoughts intertwined with the mysteries of the future. The twinkling stars above seemed to hold countless secrets, and as they contemplated what lay ahead, they couldn't help but wonder about the path their divine gifts would lead them down. The forest, their beloved home, whispered its own secrets in the rustling leaves and gentle breezes that caressed their fur. In that quiet moment, as the world slumbered around them, they made a silent vow to protect this land and its inhabitants with all the strength their gifts could offer. The bond between them deepened, and they knew they were destined for something extraordinary. With the first light of dawn gently kissing the sky, Scarlet and Sterling awoke to a transformation that would forever change their existence. They had assumed human forms during their slumber, yet these forms retained echoes of their fox nature, a mesmerizing blend of the ethereal and the earthly. Their eyes bore the radiant colors that once graced their fur, a testament to the enchantment that now flowed within their very veins. As humans, they moved through the village with a grace that transcended the ordinary, their ethereal beauty drawing the gaze of all who beheld them. Scarlet's hair flowed like a river of fiery crimson, her eyes shimmering like the most precious of gemstones. Sterling possessed an otherworldly charm, his hair a silvery cascade reminiscent of moonlight, and his eyes as bright and blue as the boundless skies. Together, they were a vision of regal splendor, a living testament to the harmonious coexistence of nature and humanity. The villagers, however, did not immediately recognize them, for their human forms were unlike anything the villagers had ever seen. Driven by fear and uncertainty, some among the villagers brandished hayforks, their voices trembling with apprehension. They saw these magnificent beings, naked and unadorned, and believed them to be otherworldly entities or perhaps even demons. Faced with the villagers' fear and aggression, Sterling decided to quell the rising tension. With a powerful and commanding presence, he underwent a swift transformation, returning to his fox form before their very eyes. His fur shimmered with silvery elegance as he stood before them, his gaze unwavering, and in a voice that resonated with a divine authority, he declared, "I am Sterling, the King of the Forest, and this is my Scarlet, my soulmate. Your fear has blinded you to the divine power that we embody." The village chief, a wise and compassionate leader, recognized the truth in Sterling's words. He quickly intervened, urging the villagers to lower their weapons and take heed of the bracelets adorning the divine pair's wrists, each bearing their namesâScarlet and Sterling. In a gesture of goodwill, the villagers hurriedly provided clothing for their unanticipated guests and ushered them into the chief's house. Inside the chief's humble abode, the true reason for their timely visit became evident. The chief recounted the events that had unfolded since their last encounter, revealing that shortly after their visit, a group of ten knights clad in ominous black armor had descended upon the village. These marauders had seized the villagers' entire supply of grain, a crucial resource needed for the impending winter. Desperation and uncertainty loomed over the village, for they did not know how to survive the harsh months ahead without their precious stores. In response, Sterling assured the villagers that the forest would provide for them, just as they had promised to protect and cherish the village. He vowed to use his abilities to ensure the well-being of the villagers and to replenish their grain supplies. Two weeks after their arrival in the village, Scarlet and Sterling found themselves at the heart of a joyous celebrationâthe wedding ceremony of two villagers. It was a momentous occasion, filled with love, laughter, and the vibrant colors of blossoming flowers. The entire village had gathered to witness the union, and the air was filled with a palpable sense of anticipation and happiness. As they watched the ceremony unfold, both Scarlet and Sterling were captivated by the heartfelt vows exchanged between the couple. The words "I love you" were spoken with such sincerity and tenderness that they resonated deeply within the hearts of all who heard them. It was a moment of pure, unadulterated emotion, a declaration of love that transcended words and reached into the very soul. For Scarlet, witnessing these three simple words held profound meaning. It was as if a veil had been lifted, revealing the power of those words to bind hearts and kindle a love so intense that it could move mountains. She saw the temptation it generated in the couple's hearts, the way their eyes sparkled with adoration and their smiles radiated happiness. The sight of the couple exchanging their vows stirred something within Scarlet's own heart. She couldn't help but imagine herself and Sterling standing in their place, pledging their love for each other before the village, with the Chief presiding over the ceremony. The thought of such a union filled her with warmth and longing, and she wondered if it was a dream they could one day turn into reality. Amidst the vibrant celebration of the village wedding, Scarlet and Sterling found themselves lost in their own thoughts. They watched as the newlywed couple exchanged vows, their hearts overflowing with love and joy. The words "I love you" hung in the air like a sweet, intoxicating fragrance, and both foxes couldn't help but savor the moment. Scarlet's eyes shimmered with a deep, reflective quality as she gazed at the couple. In her mind, she imagined herself and Sterling standing at the altar, just as the villagers had, declaring their love for each other in front of the entire community. She envisioned the Chief offering his blessing, and the village celebrating their union with the same fervor and happiness. As the couple shared their first dance beneath the moonlit sky, Scarlet could feel the rhythm of her own heart quicken. The warmth and tenderness that enveloped the newlyweds seemed to seep into her very soul, filling her with a longing for a love so profound that it would light up the darkest of nights. Meanwhile, Sterling stood beside her, his eyes fixed on the dance floor. In his thoughts, he imagined the two of them gliding across the square, their steps synchronized in perfect harmony. The idea of declaring his love for Scarlet, not just in the privacy of their hearts but before their entire community, filled him with a sense of pride and anticipation. Both knew that the three simple wordsâthose magical words, "I love you"âhad the power to transform a moment, to create a memory that would last a lifetime. They couldn't help but savor the beauty of the wedding, the way it celebrated the boundless possibilities of love and unity. As the night continued to unfold, Scarlet and Sterling found themselves immersed in the celebration, their hearts warmed by the love and happiness that surrounded them. It was a night they would cherish, a night that brought them one step closer to their own dream of a weddingâa dream that would someday become a reality, uniting their hearts in a love as deep and enduring as the forest itself. As the winter's icy grip tightened around the village, conversations filled with hope and determination echoed through the frosty air. One particularly significant dialogue unfolded between Sterling and the village chief, a man of great wisdom and a deep understanding of the bonds between humans and nature. One evening, beside a crackling fire that cast flickering shadows upon their faces, Sterling and the chief sat in quiet contemplation. The chief's eyes, aged yet filled with a youthful spark, met Sterling's with a profound sense of trust. "Sterling," the chief began, his voice carrying the weight of his words, "the trials of this winter have tested us in ways we could never have imagined. Yet, through it all, you and Scarlet have stood by our side, guiding us with your wisdom and your divine presence." Sterling nodded, his expression a mixture of gratitude and humility. "It has been an honor to stand with you all, to witness the strength of this village and its unwavering spirit." The chief's gaze bore into Sterling's, his voice unwavering as he continued, "We, the villagers of this small village, have discussed our future. We have pledged that if we survive the trials of winter, if we emerge from the cold and darkness with our spirits unbroken, we shall pledge our loyalty to you, Sterling. We shall accept you as the Divine Forest King, a ruler not only over the animals but also over us humans." Sterling's heart swelled with emotion at the chief's words. He understood the significance of this pledge, the bridge it would create between humans and nature, and the hope it represented for a harmonious future. In a voice filled with determination and a hint of emotion, he replied, "I accept your pledge, Chief, not as a ruler, but as a guardian and a friend. Together, we shall nurture this land, ensuring its prosperity for generations to come." And so, beneath the winter's starlit sky, Sterling and the village chief sealed their pactâa promise that would come to fruition as the days grew longer and the chill of winter gradually relinquished its hold on the land. As winter descended upon the land with unforgiving cold, Scarlet and Sterling's presence brought warmth and hope to the villagers. Despite the challenges of adjusting to her newfound human form, Scarlet found herself drawn to Sterling, her heart swelling with a burning warmth whenever she witnessed his tireless efforts to improve the village's conditions. Her cheeks would flush with rosy hues, and a radiant smile would grace her lips, even though she struggled with the human custom of expressing the three words that mirrored the depths of her feelings: "I love you." Whenever the thought of confessing her love to Sterling crossed her mind, she became flustered, her heart racing with anxiety. Her attempts to voice those words ended in a panicked retreat, as she desperately searched for distractions to avoid the vulnerability of such a confession. The arrival of spring filled the air with an infectious joy that even touched the heart of Scarlet. She reveled in the warmth of the sun's caress, her playful spirit akin to that of a child. It was a time of renewal and hope, a season that whispered promises of growth and life. One morning, as the sun bathed the world in its golden light, Sterling rose from his bed with purpose etched upon his features. He knew it was time to seek aid from their forest allies. Before embarking on this important journey, however, he felt compelled to fulfill a promise made during the harsh winter months. The village chief, a man of honor and wisdom, had extended an offer. He had pledged that if the village survived the trials of winter, they would pledge their loyalty to Sterling and accept him as the Divine Forest King, ruler over both animals and humans. Their shared vision involved embracing the ways of nature, constructing a castle, and crowning Sterling and Scarlet as the rightful monarchs of the Divine Forest Kingdom. With a determined stride, Sterling opened the door to the chief's dwelling. The chief, his demeanor filled with respect and reverence, greeted Sterling with the words, "My lord." With a deep sense of gratitude, the chief acknowledged Sterling's faithfulness in keeping his promise. He spoke earnestly, "As you and Scarlet have held true to your word, I, along with the entire village, shall follow you wherever your path may lead." A warm smile graced Sterling's countenance as he responded, "I shall return with friends from the forest, dear chief. Together, we will embark on the journey to transform your village into the sanctuary of all creatures and humanity as well as the grand Castle of the Divine Forest Kingdom." With the sun at its zenith, Sterling set forth, accompanied by an array of creatures from the forest. Their shared mission was clear: to join forces with the humans of the village, crafting a harmonious alliance that would breathe life into their shared vision and elevate the village to new heights. In this endeavor, they found unity in purpose and an unwavering commitment to creating a world where both nature and humanity could thrive together. In a remarkable display of unity and collaboration, the animals of the Divine Forest and the humans of the village worked tirelessly together. In just two months, they achieved the extraordinary feat of constructing an entire castle, complete with imposing city walls and a multitude of houses. Each district was meticulously designed to serve the diverse needs of a flourishing kingdom, from artisans to farmers, and scholars to merchants. At the heart of it all, a splendid church dedicated to Freya and God rose majestically, its spires reaching skyward as a symbol of divine grace. As the village transformed into a thriving kingdom, something equally profound was happening within the hearts of the villagers. The time spent with Scarlet and Sterling had a profound effect, cleansing their souls of greed, jealousy, and suffering. Through the gentle guidance and boundless love of the Divine Forest's rulers, the villagers learned the true meaning of love. They discovered that a heart filled with emotions was not a curse, but a profound blessing. Emotions were the threads that wove the tapestry of their lives, binding them to one another and to the world around them. In embracing love, they found a source of strength and compassion that transcended their previous understanding. It was a transformation that touched every corner of the kingdom, leaving behind a legacy of empathy and harmony.
Set in the enchanting realm of Primordia, we are immediately pulled into this magical world as the prologue reveals the captivating backstory. We come to understand that a plague of darkness is threatening to corrupt the continent, and two divine foxes hold the key to salvation. The plot is centred around Scarlet and Sterling, who are bestowed by the Gods to offer emancipation in face of the encroaching doom. Their love shines like a glittering star against the mad King Arthur, and Hoeger provides a new take on the battle between light and dark through their fraught relationship.
Eternal Love is intensely atmospheric, powered by beautifully crafted descriptions. Almost every inanimate object is brought to life - the twinkling stars hold secrets, rooms hold their breath in anticipation, weapons thirst for the blood of innocents - and this incessant personification gives it a whimsical edge, allowing it to read like a fairytale. The heart of this book comes from Hoegerâs devotion to keeping the writing style so ethereal. I was captivated by the sheer creativity of it all and found myself saving delicious quotes non-stop!
If you can take one message from this book, its the notion that love is unyielding and forever destined to conquer evil. This is to say, Eternal Love definitely falls into the âlives up to its titleâ category. The two main characters have a spiritual awakening where they find themselves eternally bound to each other. Their love is divine and unexplainable, âit was as if their love had the power to reshape reality.â We are reminded at every chance that their souls belong to each other, to the point that their hearts start beating in rhythm. It is a profound and otherworldly connection which is a delight to read, but admittedly felt somewhat repetitive at parts.
In terms of a critique, there were a few aspects of Eternal Love which made me knock off two stars. Unfortunately, although it works as a very fast paced book, some parts felt rushed and confused - particularly the main conflict at the end. On top of this, there were a few grammatical errors, and I found that the structural choice in terms of paragraphing was all over the place. This did a disservice to the beautiful writing and left the book somewhat flawed. With further editing, this could have been a four-star read for me.
One final thought, Eternal Love may appeal to readers who enjoyed the Once Upon a Broken Heart series, if you want to stick with the foxy fairytale theme.