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Sunset at Dawn #1
Betrayal & Banditry
She's a noblewoman turned thief. He's the Sacred Prince. Neither recall being betrothed.
When Elspeth loses everything in one night for the crime of being born an elf, she wants vengeance. Forced to resort to banditry in order to survive, her forest becomes a safe haven for others dismissed by the Empire. But becoming the Bandit Queen isn't enough to compensate for the castle she lost; only the royal palace will do. To become the Empress, though, she first needs to save the Sacred Prince.
After a devastating decree, Prince Otello intends to put his empire to rights and make restitution. If that means taking on a false name to better investigate the crimes committed against the elves, so be it. Perhaps he can even locate the noblewoman who plagues his dreams like a lost memory. The last thing he anticipates, though, is the vexing maiden on the wrong side of the law - and his own growing desire to rescue her from the clutches of the Bandit King.
A prophecy of destruction tore them apart. Now a vision of doom will unite them.
When Elspeth loses everything in one night for the crime of being born an elf, she wants vengeance. Forced to resort to banditry in order to survive, her forest becomes a safe haven for others dismissed by the Empire. But becoming the Bandit Queen isn't enough to compensate for the castle she lost; only the royal palace will do. To become the Empress, though, she first needs to save the Sacred Prince.
After a devastating decree, Prince Otello intends to put his empire to rights and make restitution. If that means taking on a false name to better investigate the crimes committed against the elves, so be it. Perhaps he can even locate the noblewoman who plagues his dreams like a lost memory. The last thing he anticipates, though, is the vexing maiden on the wrong side of the law - and his own growing desire to rescue her from the clutches of the Bandit King.
A prophecy of destruction tore them apart. Now a vision of doom will unite them.
284 pages, Hardcover
Published April 16, 2023
74 people are currently reading
474 people want to read
About the author
Jes Drew
87 books528 followersJes Drew is the author of the Cursed Fae of Orphydice Manor Series, the Sunset at Dawn trilogy, The Samurai's Student saga, the Ninja and Hunter trilogy, the Howling Twenty trilogy, the Kristian Clark saga/The Man on the Run series, the Castaways trilogy, The Dystopian Takeover trilogy, Summers of Yesteryear series, The Clockwork Faerie Tale Novellas, the Legends of the Master Spy series, The New ESE Files series, Tales from Parallel Worlds, Genie and Serena, Accidentally on the Run, This Side of Heaven, and The Death of a Hero.
She has three degrees, including a Master of Arts in Behavioral Counseling. Also, she has about five million houseplants (and counting— the plants and not the degrees . . . unless she relapses). She is still debating if having a fae husband is worth the hassle.
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She has three degrees, including a Master of Arts in Behavioral Counseling. Also, she has about five million houseplants (and counting— the plants and not the degrees . . . unless she relapses). She is still debating if having a fae husband is worth the hassle.
Sign up to Jes' newsletter to read Entreaty of Shadows for free!
https://mailchi.mp/ddd429767392/untit...
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April 15, 2023What a fun first installment in Jes Drew’s Sunset at Dawn series! Robin Hood meets King Arthur in this story of revenge, prophecies, and unwittingly betrothed MCs. I really enjoyed the main couple of the story, Elspeth and Prince Otello, and their relationship and banter was so much fun.
The world-building is really intricate, as is the magic system, though I had a hard time at first trying to keep track of how it all works. By the end of the story though I understood it for the most part, though I’m sure the magic system will be explained more in-depth in the following books. The romance was light, closed-door for anyone who likes things on the cleaner side, and I adored their marriage of convenience, thorny as it may be. I also really enjoyed Elspeth and her dedication to exacting revenge and trying to take the throne.
All told, an exciting and fast-paced tale that’s filled with some of my favorite tropes. A great read for anyone who enjoys a good fantasy tale with Robin Hood vibes, revenge plots, and clean romance. 3.5 stars.
The world-building is really intricate, as is the magic system, though I had a hard time at first trying to keep track of how it all works. By the end of the story though I understood it for the most part, though I’m sure the magic system will be explained more in-depth in the following books. The romance was light, closed-door for anyone who likes things on the cleaner side, and I adored their marriage of convenience, thorny as it may be. I also really enjoyed Elspeth and her dedication to exacting revenge and trying to take the throne.
All told, an exciting and fast-paced tale that’s filled with some of my favorite tropes. A great read for anyone who enjoys a good fantasy tale with Robin Hood vibes, revenge plots, and clean romance. 3.5 stars.
June 1, 2023
A slightly lighter fantasy book than most I’ve read. The couple have met but have had their memories of the event stolen which did ever so slightly cause me to wonder what was actually going in initially. However I pushed on and actually came to enjoy the path that the story took as at times it was extremely amusing. Elspeth is not the typical a** kicking heroine as she’s quite sheltered but I couldn’t fault her gung-ho attitude. Otello was everything I imagined a fairytale Prince to be when I was growing up. Yes there’s a slight Disney feel to it with secret identities and huge misunderstandings but as this ended I was truly invested in this fun story with its darker ending.
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
Three and a half
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
Three and a half
April 6, 2023
A YA fantasy with action and adventure!
I would definitely recommend this to anyone who likes beginner YA books! I’m excited for the next one🥰
I also loved the themes of a loving and wonderful creator!
Though be warned, it took me quite a while to get into the story and actually feel invested. The POV’s confused me- I wasn’t sure who was who. There was quite a bit of setup before things actually started happening. The characters had the slight feel of having sprung into existence right as I opened the book. All references to their pasts felt fake to me. And the men were a little too perfect. They kept referencing things like having never touched a woman or seen a woman’s legs and I would think… so this man doesn’t do dancing? Has he spoken to any women? Where are the women in his country?
Further reading revealed a pretty fun enemies to lovers thing setting up, and an intense ending that I was very engrossed in. How shocking was it to turn the page and find out out it was a cliffhanger😂
THANK YOU to Books of Matches Media and Jes Drew for gifting me with an ARC!
I would definitely recommend this to anyone who likes beginner YA books! I’m excited for the next one🥰
I also loved the themes of a loving and wonderful creator!
Though be warned, it took me quite a while to get into the story and actually feel invested. The POV’s confused me- I wasn’t sure who was who. There was quite a bit of setup before things actually started happening. The characters had the slight feel of having sprung into existence right as I opened the book. All references to their pasts felt fake to me. And the men were a little too perfect. They kept referencing things like having never touched a woman or seen a woman’s legs and I would think… so this man doesn’t do dancing? Has he spoken to any women? Where are the women in his country?
Further reading revealed a pretty fun enemies to lovers thing setting up, and an intense ending that I was very engrossed in. How shocking was it to turn the page and find out out it was a cliffhanger😂
THANK YOU to Books of Matches Media and Jes Drew for gifting me with an ARC!
July 2, 2024
After being disappointed by the current trend of YA fantasy, it’s a delight to find gems that shine with what YA fantasy *should* be—and this was one of them!
In the rise of morally grey MMC (which have their place, don’t get me wrong), we have a noble hero in Othello. I got King Arthur vibes from him. And his dynamic with his valet/best friend Heinrich was on par with the Merlin & Arthur banter in BBC Merlin. Gotta love that best-friend duo!
Elspeth is the girl of good intentions turned into a female Robin Hood. She makes me mistakes and is full of sass, but she’s got a good heart for protecting her found-family.
There’s an epic quest, shadow creatures, mistaken identities, and fantasy world built around strong Christian principles. There’s romance, which I found adorable and suitable for the YA range—no lusty thoughts and overtly descriptive kissing. It’s all cute!
Due to the intense nature of the plot, I recommend reading this with a clear mind. I tried reading it a night once and my brain couldn’t keep up and I had to backtrack significantly the next day, haha.
All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed this book! It kicked me out of my fantasy slump, and I ordered a copy before I even finished because I’m thrilled to add it to my shelf!
In the rise of morally grey MMC (which have their place, don’t get me wrong), we have a noble hero in Othello. I got King Arthur vibes from him. And his dynamic with his valet/best friend Heinrich was on par with the Merlin & Arthur banter in BBC Merlin. Gotta love that best-friend duo!
Elspeth is the girl of good intentions turned into a female Robin Hood. She makes me mistakes and is full of sass, but she’s got a good heart for protecting her found-family.
There’s an epic quest, shadow creatures, mistaken identities, and fantasy world built around strong Christian principles. There’s romance, which I found adorable and suitable for the YA range—no lusty thoughts and overtly descriptive kissing. It’s all cute!
Due to the intense nature of the plot, I recommend reading this with a clear mind. I tried reading it a night once and my brain couldn’t keep up and I had to backtrack significantly the next day, haha.
All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed this book! It kicked me out of my fantasy slump, and I ordered a copy before I even finished because I’m thrilled to add it to my shelf!
June 9, 2023
Betrayal & Banditry is a fun first book in the series. Elspeth is an elf who had her home taken away from her because of hatred towards elves. Otello is a prince who is trying to make up for crimes against the elves. They were in love and to be married until fate tore them apart, making them forget each other. Now they find themselves drawn back to each other as Elspeth becomes the Bandit Queen getting vengeance for what was done to her. Now she must help Otello save his throne and the country.
I feel the characters could have been developed more; however, I feel the intention is to have them develop through the course of the series so that doesn’t bother me currently. I thought the plot started out a bit slow and some of the language pulled me out of the story. As the story progressed, I couldn’t put it down and the issue I had with the language went away. I’m excited to read the sequel once published. I’d give the book 3.5 stars and look forward to the next.
Thank you Net Galley and the publishing company for sharing this with me for my honest review.
I feel the characters could have been developed more; however, I feel the intention is to have them develop through the course of the series so that doesn’t bother me currently. I thought the plot started out a bit slow and some of the language pulled me out of the story. As the story progressed, I couldn’t put it down and the issue I had with the language went away. I’m excited to read the sequel once published. I’d give the book 3.5 stars and look forward to the next.
Thank you Net Galley and the publishing company for sharing this with me for my honest review.
August 30, 2025
The writer has put a lot of thought into the romantic aspect of the book between the two main characters of the story. The fantasy has some good points that makes the story pretty fun to read. As far as the plot the writer will need to work at harnessing the plot in with the characters background stories to make the story more believable. Draw that plot into their emotional state. Take what twist that have to entice the story and make it an unbelievable draw dropping story that your readers will never forget. And with that I enjoyed the romance and the entertainment of the book. The book has some interesting elements of entertainment. I was engaged at the end. The book was an alright read for me.
June 1, 2023
Three and a half
A slightly lighter fantasy book than most I’ve read. The couple have met but have had their memories of the event stolen which did ever so slightly cause me to wonder what was actually going on initially. However I pushed on and actually came to enjoy the path that the story took as at times it was extremely amusing. Elspeth is not the typical a** kicking heroine as she’s quite sheltered but I couldn’t fault her gung-ho attitude. Otello was everything I imagined a fairytale Prince to be when I was growing up. Yes there’s a slight Disney feel to it with secret identities and huge misunderstandings but as this ended I was truly invested in this fun story with its darker ending.
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
A slightly lighter fantasy book than most I’ve read. The couple have met but have had their memories of the event stolen which did ever so slightly cause me to wonder what was actually going on initially. However I pushed on and actually came to enjoy the path that the story took as at times it was extremely amusing. Elspeth is not the typical a** kicking heroine as she’s quite sheltered but I couldn’t fault her gung-ho attitude. Otello was everything I imagined a fairytale Prince to be when I was growing up. Yes there’s a slight Disney feel to it with secret identities and huge misunderstandings but as this ended I was truly invested in this fun story with its darker ending.
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
June 16, 2023
I was slightly confused at the beginning as the prologue starts with them being betrothed and then it just switches to them in a completely different setting. It's a dual POV book, which sometimes had me going back to the chapter title to check whose POV it was. All in all it was a fun read, light and fast. I'm very curious to see how the rest of the story unfolds as this is the first installment. I would have loved to know more about the prologue scene and the events surrounding it. I would recommend it to a reader looking for a light YA fantasy book with elves, a courageous but naive MMC and a loyal, family oriented FMC.
April 14, 2023
This was very intricate and a good setup for the rest of the series. As with all fantasy books, it took a little while to understand the world and system of magic. I am hoping that Kin Magic is described and explained a bit more in the second book, as I don’t totally understand it. I loved the concept of switching bodies and was laughing out loud during certain miscommunication scenes. I am interested in finding out how Otello and Elspeth will reconcile, after their ginormous misunderstanding. There were so many characters, and I liked how they each came from different places to form a ragtag group. One of my favorite characters was Meredith, and I enjoyed the snippets that I saw from her.
As for the plot, I thought that it was developed decently, and I hope more details are explained throughout the rest of the trilogy. I think that Otello is sometimes very clueless, and Elspeth will be the main brainpower behind the rest of the series. There were several points where I think that great foreshadowing took place, and I cannot wait to see what happens in this universe.
As for the plot, I thought that it was developed decently, and I hope more details are explained throughout the rest of the trilogy. I think that Otello is sometimes very clueless, and Elspeth will be the main brainpower behind the rest of the series. There were several points where I think that great foreshadowing took place, and I cannot wait to see what happens in this universe.
April 11, 2023
Thank you to Book of Matches Media and Jes Drew for providing me with an eARC of this book. This is my honest review.
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Light fantasy romance anyone? 👀 Betrayal and Banditry is a fast-paced fantasy with a Robin Hood twist and slowly budding romance. The book starts off at a gallop, so strap in! 🗣️
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While the back and forth between POV’s during the same scene took some getting used to, I soon found myself falling into the rhythm and enjoying the story. The chemistry between Elspeth and Otello was definitely the highlight of the book 🙌🏽 I like the slow build of their attraction as the story progresses.
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There are some elements I wish we had learned more about like the elves, the different types of magic, and the different types of beings we interact with. I think the world-building may have benefited from a longer book, but what we see in Betrayal and Banditry was still very interesting! There are so many things to explore later on in the series.
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And that ending?! 😱 Talk about a major cliffhanger! I’m excited to see what happens next!
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Overall, I enjoyed Betrayal and Banditry. It was a fun read with light romance and a nice way to start off a series. If you’re looking for a one sitting fantasy read, give this book a shot!
-
Light fantasy romance anyone? 👀 Betrayal and Banditry is a fast-paced fantasy with a Robin Hood twist and slowly budding romance. The book starts off at a gallop, so strap in! 🗣️
-
While the back and forth between POV’s during the same scene took some getting used to, I soon found myself falling into the rhythm and enjoying the story. The chemistry between Elspeth and Otello was definitely the highlight of the book 🙌🏽 I like the slow build of their attraction as the story progresses.
-
There are some elements I wish we had learned more about like the elves, the different types of magic, and the different types of beings we interact with. I think the world-building may have benefited from a longer book, but what we see in Betrayal and Banditry was still very interesting! There are so many things to explore later on in the series.
-
And that ending?! 😱 Talk about a major cliffhanger! I’m excited to see what happens next!
-
Overall, I enjoyed Betrayal and Banditry. It was a fun read with light romance and a nice way to start off a series. If you’re looking for a one sitting fantasy read, give this book a shot!
April 11, 2023
Thank you to the author and BOMM for sending me an ARC to this incredible read with Robin Hood vibes.
When Elspeth loses everything in one night for the crime of being born an elf, she wants vengeance. Forced to resort to banditry in order to survive, her forest becomes a safe haven for others dismissed by the Empire. But becoming the Bandit Queen isn't enough to compensate for the castle she lost; only the royal palace will do. To become the Empress, though, she first needs to save the Sacred Prince.
After a devastating decree, Prince Otello intends to put his empire to rights and make restitution. Perhaps he can even locate the noblewoman who plagues his dreams like a lost memory. The last thing he anticipates, though, is the vexing maiden on the wrong side of the law — and his own growing desire to rescue her from the clutches of the Bandit King.
A prophecy of destruction tore them apart. Now a vision of doom will unite them. This was an interesting tale with mistaken identities, prophecies and magic. I enjoyed getting to know about the characters. As a dual POV story, it did confuse me sometimes as to who was talking. But as the story progressed, their characters became more defined and easier to distinguish.
This was a character driven story with a rich history and the plot was well developed and written. I am excited to learn more about the characters and how their lives get entwined after the recent developments.
When Elspeth loses everything in one night for the crime of being born an elf, she wants vengeance. Forced to resort to banditry in order to survive, her forest becomes a safe haven for others dismissed by the Empire. But becoming the Bandit Queen isn't enough to compensate for the castle she lost; only the royal palace will do. To become the Empress, though, she first needs to save the Sacred Prince.
After a devastating decree, Prince Otello intends to put his empire to rights and make restitution. Perhaps he can even locate the noblewoman who plagues his dreams like a lost memory. The last thing he anticipates, though, is the vexing maiden on the wrong side of the law — and his own growing desire to rescue her from the clutches of the Bandit King.
A prophecy of destruction tore them apart. Now a vision of doom will unite them. This was an interesting tale with mistaken identities, prophecies and magic. I enjoyed getting to know about the characters. As a dual POV story, it did confuse me sometimes as to who was talking. But as the story progressed, their characters became more defined and easier to distinguish.
This was a character driven story with a rich history and the plot was well developed and written. I am excited to learn more about the characters and how their lives get entwined after the recent developments.
April 15, 2023
Betrayal and Banditry is a Dual POV, YA slow burn, fantasy read with elves, Robin Hood vibes, magic and tropes like mistaken identity, he falls first, and only one bed. I love mistaken identity, and it's so satisfying when they realize who each other are (FYI, this happens around 88%).
After the engaging, dramatic start, it took me a while to get into this book. I don't know if it's because I'm a mood reader, have a lot going on right now, and have a ton of other ARCs to read, but I struggled. However, I'll say the last 20% ish of the book was worth the struggle, and it had a great twisted ending! I'll probably still do a re-read later and see how it goes then.
Thanks to the author and BOMM for the ARC!
After the engaging, dramatic start, it took me a while to get into this book. I don't know if it's because I'm a mood reader, have a lot going on right now, and have a ton of other ARCs to read, but I struggled. However, I'll say the last 20% ish of the book was worth the struggle, and it had a great twisted ending! I'll probably still do a re-read later and see how it goes then.
Thanks to the author and BOMM for the ARC!
April 15, 2023
Betrayal & Banditry by @authorjesdrew is a quick and easy read. I really enjoyed the gender-bent Robin Hood theme in this book. Elspeth is a strong lead and Otello is swoon worthy! The world building is established quickly while jumping into the story right away. Sometimes I get lost in world building so I really appreciate that Drew jumps right into the storyline. The magic system interwoven in the story is also easy to follow. I am excited to read the rest of the series!
December 31, 2023
Betrayal & Banditry
Jes Drew
Rating🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟/5( yup you saw that right!! I'm officially in love again)
Highlight:
📌“After the province was shaken by the Night of Broken Walls, a new legend arose. The avenging Bandit King. No one quite knows who he is, whether man or elf. But they say he steals from the rich and delivers the poor.”
Review
This book was EVERYTHING!! As if I couldn't love her writing even more Jes penned this book and made my heart pitter patter, flitter flutter and all the fluffy alliteration, the acquaintance to enemies to maybe friends(okay that's stretching it..... allies maybe) the way the characters are crafted shows Jes' masterful craftsmanship and the plot is just so brilliantly constructed.
Our main female protagonist is Elspeth, she's an Elf who was chased out of her own home on the night of the Broken Walls and had to go into hiding in the woods to escape Vontrapp, and thus begins the tale of the Bandit King.
Otello is the son of the holy Emperor, but the king had a bastard son who looks quite similar to Otello and they like to switch places(and it's not the hallmark switcheroo kind either), the only problem is something is brewing on the horizon that would put Otello's life in danger!
Heinrich the bastard son, the brother and valet of prince Otello, is mistaken for a fake while the fake Heinrich is beside Otello will he find the true Heinrich on time? Will they save the emperor? Will Otello survive? And what's the role of the Bandit King in all of this? Want to know?
Then grab your copy today, I would recommend the hardback because what hides under the dust jacket is so so pretty ✨
The writing style is amazing as always, reader friendly, the language is easy to tap into, the dual POV is well written and helps understand better because of the switcheroos happening within, the plot is constructed beautifully and paves way for book 2 & 3, the plot twists are set perfectly, the cover is beautiful, the naked hardback is just a beautiful surprise and the title makes total sense!!
Jes Drew
Rating🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟/5( yup you saw that right!! I'm officially in love again)
Highlight:
📌“After the province was shaken by the Night of Broken Walls, a new legend arose. The avenging Bandit King. No one quite knows who he is, whether man or elf. But they say he steals from the rich and delivers the poor.”
Review
This book was EVERYTHING!! As if I couldn't love her writing even more Jes penned this book and made my heart pitter patter, flitter flutter and all the fluffy alliteration, the acquaintance to enemies to maybe friends(okay that's stretching it..... allies maybe) the way the characters are crafted shows Jes' masterful craftsmanship and the plot is just so brilliantly constructed.
Our main female protagonist is Elspeth, she's an Elf who was chased out of her own home on the night of the Broken Walls and had to go into hiding in the woods to escape Vontrapp, and thus begins the tale of the Bandit King.
Otello is the son of the holy Emperor, but the king had a bastard son who looks quite similar to Otello and they like to switch places(and it's not the hallmark switcheroo kind either), the only problem is something is brewing on the horizon that would put Otello's life in danger!
Heinrich the bastard son, the brother and valet of prince Otello, is mistaken for a fake while the fake Heinrich is beside Otello will he find the true Heinrich on time? Will they save the emperor? Will Otello survive? And what's the role of the Bandit King in all of this? Want to know?
Then grab your copy today, I would recommend the hardback because what hides under the dust jacket is so so pretty ✨
The writing style is amazing as always, reader friendly, the language is easy to tap into, the dual POV is well written and helps understand better because of the switcheroos happening within, the plot is constructed beautifully and paves way for book 2 & 3, the plot twists are set perfectly, the cover is beautiful, the naked hardback is just a beautiful surprise and the title makes total sense!!
Read
June 7, 2023ARC from NetGalley
DNF @16%
This is a very disjointed and confusingly written book. It seems like large swaths of information are missing. The tense changes from present to past within the same paragraph. And it's not interesting enough for me to continue the trudge.
This is where I peace out:
"I guess I contributed best by daring to go into town with my cloak hood over my head and my ears sharp to hear what news there was. When I can't bear to hear the constant bird whistles between the brothers while they hunt that I can somehow hear no matter where I wander in these woods."
DNF @16%
This is a very disjointed and confusingly written book. It seems like large swaths of information are missing. The tense changes from present to past within the same paragraph. And it's not interesting enough for me to continue the trudge.
This is where I peace out:
"I guess I contributed best by daring to go into town with my cloak hood over my head and my ears sharp to hear what news there was. When I can't bear to hear the constant bird whistles between the brothers while they hunt that I can somehow hear no matter where I wander in these woods."
May 16, 2023
A promising premise and some interesting worldbuilding quirks, but ultimately an underdeveloped jumble with some major missteps.
Elspeth is a minor noblewoman with elvish blood and Otello is the Sacred Prince of the Holy Empire. They’re betrothed almost at first sight because she saves him from a falling chandelier, but a mysterious magical sage shows up and erases both their memories of the event. Several years later, after the Empire declares open season on elves, Elspeth’s aunt is murdered and she flees her home for the woods, and Otello decides that his response to his father actively committing genocide is to… go on a tour of the baronies [formerly] held by elven barons? To apologize?
Otello’s grand plan to somehow make up for his father murdering an unknown number of elves in his empire with no explanation or warning is never actually explained, and the obvious ridiculousness of a *renegade genocide apology tour* while said genocide is *actively occurring* is simply ignored.
The book hurtles through action after action at an astonishing clip (three “heists” in less than 40 pages, for example, all over without a single moment of suspense) without enough explanation or grounding details to follow the reasoning behind any of it, propelled by snappy dialog that I found stilted and awkward and a constant stream of instant, impulsive decision making by every single character.
The author also drops unfamiliar terms with little to no explanation consistently through the narrative, which I found confusing.
Ultimately this book was not for me!
(Thank you to NetGalley and Boo’s Books for the eARC!)
Elspeth is a minor noblewoman with elvish blood and Otello is the Sacred Prince of the Holy Empire. They’re betrothed almost at first sight because she saves him from a falling chandelier, but a mysterious magical sage shows up and erases both their memories of the event. Several years later, after the Empire declares open season on elves, Elspeth’s aunt is murdered and she flees her home for the woods, and Otello decides that his response to his father actively committing genocide is to… go on a tour of the baronies [formerly] held by elven barons? To apologize?
Otello’s grand plan to somehow make up for his father murdering an unknown number of elves in his empire with no explanation or warning is never actually explained, and the obvious ridiculousness of a *renegade genocide apology tour* while said genocide is *actively occurring* is simply ignored.
The book hurtles through action after action at an astonishing clip (three “heists” in less than 40 pages, for example, all over without a single moment of suspense) without enough explanation or grounding details to follow the reasoning behind any of it, propelled by snappy dialog that I found stilted and awkward and a constant stream of instant, impulsive decision making by every single character.
The author also drops unfamiliar terms with little to no explanation consistently through the narrative, which I found confusing.
Ultimately this book was not for me!
(Thank you to NetGalley and Boo’s Books for the eARC!)
June 11, 2023
3.5 Stars ⭐️
Overall this book was not bad, and I did find myself really getting into it after our two main characters' stories collided. I really did love the secret identities part of the story, and it made for a very interesting plot and just generally a lot of fun. This was a very fast read, but where my first and main criticism comes in is that it was confusing at times.
I think the beginning was really messy and confusing, and it quite frankly did put me off a little. Thankfully it did redeem itself further in, but for other readers who dnf books a bit easier than it may be very offputting. I feel like it really just threw you into the book a little bit after where the plot actually started, and it felt like a very confusing game of catch-up. Plus I am not the biggest fan of instant love, and that was heavily where the book started off at. Plus it was sometimes hard to follow along with the doppelganger part of the book, which I think was purposeful at times but it did make it difficult to understand.
Pushing past the first part of the story though, and I really did enjoy it. There was a lot of perfectly placed humor, banter, and action that really got the book rolling and helped me get into it. The ending was also super fun and really helped lead the excitement into the next installment of this series.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this book in exchange for my honest review.
Overall this book was not bad, and I did find myself really getting into it after our two main characters' stories collided. I really did love the secret identities part of the story, and it made for a very interesting plot and just generally a lot of fun. This was a very fast read, but where my first and main criticism comes in is that it was confusing at times.
I think the beginning was really messy and confusing, and it quite frankly did put me off a little. Thankfully it did redeem itself further in, but for other readers who dnf books a bit easier than it may be very offputting. I feel like it really just threw you into the book a little bit after where the plot actually started, and it felt like a very confusing game of catch-up. Plus I am not the biggest fan of instant love, and that was heavily where the book started off at. Plus it was sometimes hard to follow along with the doppelganger part of the book, which I think was purposeful at times but it did make it difficult to understand.
Pushing past the first part of the story though, and I really did enjoy it. There was a lot of perfectly placed humor, banter, and action that really got the book rolling and helped me get into it. The ending was also super fun and really helped lead the excitement into the next installment of this series.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this book in exchange for my honest review.
May 25, 2023
I found the start of the book a little slow at first and a little confusing. The timeline didn't seem to work for me because as far as I knew Elspeth had only robbed one place after the events of her family's deaths and was already seen as a legend and given the title of Bandit King. I felt I'd missed something.
As the book progressed, however, I really got into it. Elspeth really grew on me as did Irwin. I also loved Heinrich and found him very funny and witty, I really hope we see more of him in the second book though the epilogue has me worried for his character.
I love that, despite a few kisses, Elspeth and Otello didn't jump immediately into a relationship. With everything going on it was nice to see that their relationship was strained and not immediately going into a full blown love story. I felt like it would have detracted from the rest of the story.
As the book progressed, however, I really got into it. Elspeth really grew on me as did Irwin. I also loved Heinrich and found him very funny and witty, I really hope we see more of him in the second book though the epilogue has me worried for his character.
I love that, despite a few kisses, Elspeth and Otello didn't jump immediately into a relationship. With everything going on it was nice to see that their relationship was strained and not immediately going into a full blown love story. I felt like it would have detracted from the rest of the story.
June 5, 2023
Thank you so much to the author and the publisher, Victory Editing NetGalley, for sharing an ARC copy of this book with me on NetGalley!!
"We already have a plan." Irwin sets his hard gaze on me. "We rescue the Prince. He rescues the Empire."
Intriguing and unexpected. This is how I would describe this fantasy romance book!! It is the first in a series so it would be too soon to know who it will unravel but so far I can say that it more than enchanted me a bit with its stories of long lost love, forgotten by magic and always in search of one another. A kingdom almost falling down at the hands of a wizard who wants the power despite having to claim to it and a young she-elf woman who simply wants to survive and protect her kin!!!! And a wonderful albeit naive Prince who would simply want to protect those in need and the ones he loves!! Their story is one of deception and betrayal and most of all a complicated form of love that from lovers turned strangers than enemies than lovers will lead them down a path to bring them back with one another !!! Book two, I need you now !!!
"We already have a plan." Irwin sets his hard gaze on me. "We rescue the Prince. He rescues the Empire."
Intriguing and unexpected. This is how I would describe this fantasy romance book!! It is the first in a series so it would be too soon to know who it will unravel but so far I can say that it more than enchanted me a bit with its stories of long lost love, forgotten by magic and always in search of one another. A kingdom almost falling down at the hands of a wizard who wants the power despite having to claim to it and a young she-elf woman who simply wants to survive and protect her kin!!!! And a wonderful albeit naive Prince who would simply want to protect those in need and the ones he loves!! Their story is one of deception and betrayal and most of all a complicated form of love that from lovers turned strangers than enemies than lovers will lead them down a path to bring them back with one another !!! Book two, I need you now !!!
June 6, 2023
I’m going through this book so fast💨
If you’re looking for:
• YA fantasy
• Elf Magic / interesting magic system
• Secret/mistaken identity
• Robin hood inspired storyline
This book will definitely a right fit for you✨
The book is dual pov within the same time sequence, giving you the in look of the inner monologue of each characters, Elspeth and Otello.
It’s fun, entertaining and the world building is easy to digest with an interesting character and storyline. It’s a YA book with not many action but still hold on to it’s fantasy aspect with elf and mortals, cool magic and somehow kinda reminds me of the cruel prince. Maybe, because Elspeth and Otello dynamic is quite similar with Jude and Cardan in a way.
I would say, if you’re a fan of any elf/fairy/fairies/fae related story or plot, give this book a go.
On the side notes, because this book is pretty short for a fantasy book (only 200-ish pages) it might look a little bit jumble and out of place in some part, but i honestly doesn’t really mind that because it’s still fun🤩
Thank you Netgalley, Jes Drew and Publisher for this E-ARC in exchange of an honest review💫
If you’re looking for:
• YA fantasy
• Elf Magic / interesting magic system
• Secret/mistaken identity
• Robin hood inspired storyline
This book will definitely a right fit for you✨
The book is dual pov within the same time sequence, giving you the in look of the inner monologue of each characters, Elspeth and Otello.
It’s fun, entertaining and the world building is easy to digest with an interesting character and storyline. It’s a YA book with not many action but still hold on to it’s fantasy aspect with elf and mortals, cool magic and somehow kinda reminds me of the cruel prince. Maybe, because Elspeth and Otello dynamic is quite similar with Jude and Cardan in a way.
I would say, if you’re a fan of any elf/fairy/fairies/fae related story or plot, give this book a go.
On the side notes, because this book is pretty short for a fantasy book (only 200-ish pages) it might look a little bit jumble and out of place in some part, but i honestly doesn’t really mind that because it’s still fun🤩
Thank you Netgalley, Jes Drew and Publisher for this E-ARC in exchange of an honest review💫
June 7, 2023
Firstly thankyou to NetGalley for an e-copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.25/5 Stars.
So going into this book I knew I was going to like it being one of my favourite genre's of fantasy romance but this book had me gripped from page 1. The banter and miscommunication between Elspeth and Otello is amazing and the family dynamic with the side characters for both of them are really cute and wholesome, WolfBear is awesome and I hope we get to see more of them in future books.
I have already recommended this book to friends and family and will continue in future and I cannot wait to read more from Jes Drew.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.25/5 Stars.
So going into this book I knew I was going to like it being one of my favourite genre's of fantasy romance but this book had me gripped from page 1. The banter and miscommunication between Elspeth and Otello is amazing and the family dynamic with the side characters for both of them are really cute and wholesome, WolfBear is awesome and I hope we get to see more of them in future books.
I have already recommended this book to friends and family and will continue in future and I cannot wait to read more from Jes Drew.
April 7, 2023
3.5 rounded up.
I really liked the premise of this book. It was a very light and fast read. I thought Elspeth was a strong female MC and Otello was a good MMC. Some of the world building was lost on me. I was confused by a lot of the species and this religion they live by. I would have liked more explanation early on. The author throws you right in and usually I like that but I would have preferred more of an introduction. The cliffhanger left me wanting more and I will probably continue the series.
Thank you to Jes Drew for a copy of this ARC.
I really liked the premise of this book. It was a very light and fast read. I thought Elspeth was a strong female MC and Otello was a good MMC. Some of the world building was lost on me. I was confused by a lot of the species and this religion they live by. I would have liked more explanation early on. The author throws you right in and usually I like that but I would have preferred more of an introduction. The cliffhanger left me wanting more and I will probably continue the series.
Thank you to Jes Drew for a copy of this ARC.
April 9, 2023
Good for readers of fantasy romance!
This follows two main characters. There is an elf, Elspeth who's also a noblewoman who gotten the identity of Bandit Queen. As for the other character, Prince Otello is the sacred prince of the empire. They are both betrothed to each other but have no idea about each other true identities when they venture out with their own plans.
There is dramatic irony in this book, where the readers would know about the whole identity situation but the characters don't. It makes you anticipate for the very moment when they finally figure each other out!
If you like tropes such as royalty, he falls first, marriage of (in)convenience, fate-bond, prophecy of doom, kiss of betrayal, elf/mortal, and many more in this book, give this a read!
This follows two main characters. There is an elf, Elspeth who's also a noblewoman who gotten the identity of Bandit Queen. As for the other character, Prince Otello is the sacred prince of the empire. They are both betrothed to each other but have no idea about each other true identities when they venture out with their own plans.
There is dramatic irony in this book, where the readers would know about the whole identity situation but the characters don't. It makes you anticipate for the very moment when they finally figure each other out!
If you like tropes such as royalty, he falls first, marriage of (in)convenience, fate-bond, prophecy of doom, kiss of betrayal, elf/mortal, and many more in this book, give this a read!
May 16, 2023
I enjoyed this book. The plot flowed well and the characters were well developed. I look forward to reading the next book.
****Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an ARC in exchange for my honest review****
****Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an ARC in exchange for my honest review****
May 30, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. It was well paced, entertaining and enjoyable to read.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. It was well paced, entertaining and enjoyable to read.
June 8, 2023
I really love the cover! The writing style is great and the plot is top notch. I really loved all of the characters. It was just missing the romance for me but other than that it was a great read. And a cliffhanger? Goodness, really can’t wait to read the rest of the series!
June 8, 2023
I really love the cover! The writing style is great and the plot is top notch. I really loved all of the characters. It was just missing the romance for me but other than that it was a great read. And a cliffhanger? Goodness, really can’t wait to read the rest of the series!
April 17, 2023
A huge thank you to @authorjesdrew and @bookofmatchesmedia for the Advance copy of Betrayl and Banditry, which releases tomorrow.
This book is a perfect for YA fans that are looking for a twist on a Robin hood retailing. I enjoyed how strong of a character our FMC, Elspeth is and how she takes on the world. This book starts you right in the middle of everything, so pay attention and leads you right to an fantastic cliffhanger.
This book is a perfect for YA fans that are looking for a twist on a Robin hood retailing. I enjoyed how strong of a character our FMC, Elspeth is and how she takes on the world. This book starts you right in the middle of everything, so pay attention and leads you right to an fantastic cliffhanger.
June 17, 2023
Unique story line. Elves. Magic, prophecy so many things that hook you in. I love wolfbear sooo much.
April 18, 2023
It was such a good read. Got me hooked from the beginning and i absolutely loved it, can't wait to get my hands on the second book!
If you like YA, you should definitely check this one out.
The whole thing with changing apperances? AMAZING, sometimes EVEN I wasn't sure who is who haha
I really enjoyed the plot, characters are very likeable and i am really curious what will happen in the next book.
If you like YA, you should definitely check this one out.
The whole thing with changing apperances? AMAZING, sometimes EVEN I wasn't sure who is who haha
I really enjoyed the plot, characters are very likeable and i am really curious what will happen in the next book.
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