About The Book
Alessandra has always been overlooked, but she’s ready to change that with a bold plan—woo the Shadow King, marry him, and then kill him to take his kingdom. However, as she works to make the king hers, she discovers she’s not the only one trying to kill him. While keeping him alive long enough to become his queen, Alessandra must fight not to lose her heart along the way.
Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/3CpgfmI
My Rating
From the very first chapters, this book grabbed my attention and didn’t let go. It’s the first in a standalone interconnected romantasy duology, and the story kept me hooked the whole way through. The author has a real talent for pulling readers in from start to finish! The characters are likable, and while the world-building isn’t overly detailed, it’s still immersive and easy to get lost in.
The story revolves around Alessandra, a strong and intriguing female protagonist. At first, she comes off as cold and calculated, but she undergoes significant development throughout the book. Her growth adds depth to her actions and motivations. Seeing her evolve from someone driven by a single, ruthless goal into a more compassionate, selfless, and empathetic person was a real highlight of the story.
The relationship between Alessandra and the Shadow King is one of the most enjoyable parts of the book. Their connection feels natural and keeps you engaged. Their interactions are filled with chemistry and just the right amount of tension. The moments of sexual tension are especially well-written, making their relationship even more exciting to follow.
The plot moves quickly, which isn’t always the case with YA fantasy, especially when the story is so character-driven. However, it blends romance, mystery, and adventure really well. I was equally invested in both the romance and the overall plot. The author does a great job of balancing the different plot elements, keeping me completely engaged and excited to see what would happen next.
“A woman is not defined by what she does or doesn’t do in the bedroom.”
While the conclusion felt a little rushed and predictable, it still wrapped things up nicely. The quick ending didn’t take away from my enjoyment, though I would’ve liked a bit more depth in those final moments. That said, Tricia Levenseller’s writing is still great, and she does an excellent job creating engaging stories and memorable characters.
Overall, as someone who’s started moving away from YA, I found this to be a refreshing and entertaining read. The author’s take on the romantasy genre was captivating and fast-paced, making it a great starting point for anyone new to the genre. I’m definitely excited to read the sequel. Plus, this is a closed-door romantasy, so if you’re not into explicit scenes, this book is a safe pick.
In the comments, let me know your favorite romantasy books or what you look for in a great fantasy romance! I love stories with strong character development and a balance of romance and adventure. Don’t forget to like this post and share it with fellow book lovers. Before you go, if you could give the blog a follow, it would really help it grow and keep you up-to-date with all the latest reviews and bookish content!
Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny