What do you think?
Rate this book
The Princess & the Spy #2
Leather
This book has been temporarily unpublished. Sign up for the author's newsletter to receive updates about newer editions.
282 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 22, 2021
112 people are currently reading
529 people want to read
About the author
Lisette Marshall
27 books1,618 followersLisette Marshall is a fantasy romance author, language nerd and cartography enthusiast. Having grown up on a steady diet of epic fantasy, regency romance and cosy mysteries, she now writes steamy, swoony stories with a generous sprinkle of murder.
Lisette lives in the Netherlands (yes, below sea level) with her boyfriend and the few house plants that miraculously survive her highly irregular watering regime. When she’s not reading or writing, she can usually be found drawing fantasy maps, baking and eating too many chocolate cookies, or geeking out over Ancient Greek.
To get in touch, visit www.lisettemarshall.com, or follow @authorlisettemarshall on Instagram, where she spends way too much time looking at pretty book pictures.
Lisette lives in the Netherlands (yes, below sea level) with her boyfriend and the few house plants that miraculously survive her highly irregular watering regime. When she’s not reading or writing, she can usually be found drawing fantasy maps, baking and eating too many chocolate cookies, or geeking out over Ancient Greek.
To get in touch, visit www.lisettemarshall.com, or follow @authorlisettemarshall on Instagram, where she spends way too much time looking at pretty book pictures.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
July 3, 2021
5 steamy, forbidden stars!
I’m becoming a little bit obsessed with this world, and with this book, Lisette Marshall well and truly sucked me in as she brings the romance, and OMG, I loved it!
This book is set a few months after the first book in the series, Velvet. Princess of the Peaks, Viviette, is home and loving her life at Rock Hall. She is happy and settled, and in a secret relationship with her father’s Spymaster, Jaghar, working with his team and helping to solve crimes and uncover secret plots within the Five Kingdoms.
And then her father declares that it is time for her to marry, and that he’s betrothed her to the widowed king of a far away country. For the sake of her father, her people, and the tentative peace within the Five Kingdoms, she has no choice but to go through with the marriage, even when it means saying goodbye to the man she loves.
Viviette and Jaghar have the most fantastic dynamic. From enemies to lovers in the first book, they bickered and bantered, but their mad sexual chemistry drew them together and they found a connection that has rocked both of their worlds. They are now best friends, close confidants, trusted partners and red-hot lovers. Neither of them ever expected to fall for the other, and even though they’ve never actually said the words, it seems that’s exactly what has happened, and now they are forced to end it.
OMG, the feels are intense, and I loved seeing these two feel so much for each other! Their love was unexpected and, given their positions, they both knew that nothing could ever come of it, but seeing them torn apart is really freaking brutal.
When Jaghar learns that Viviette is in danger as she travels to her new home in the Riverlands, he drops everything to get to her. So not only does the Princess have a loyal bodyguard for the journey, but Jaghar is by her side as she arrives at her new home. Which is just as well, because not all is as it seems in the Riverlands, with danger seeming to loom from multiple sources. And when Viviette begins to question the disappearance of her betrothed’s first wife, she begins to realise just how much danger she’s in.
The whole time, Jaghar is there for her, protecting and defending her, helping her work through the mysteries they are faced with, but keeping his distance out of loyalty to his King, and the knowledge that Viviette deserves so much better than he can offer. It’s a heartbreaking situation that is dripping with sexual tension as we feel the emotional intensity that burns between Jag and Viviette, but they can’t act on it, and the angst and longing had my heart pounding through each and every encounter.
It’s exciting and intriguing, and I couldn’t turn the pages quick enough. My mind was spinning with theories to figure out what was going on within the castle walls - what happened to their last Queen? Is the bad guy who I think it is? What are they plotting? How is it all going to play out? And of course, when will Jag and Viviette get their happy ending? It’s a great read, well written, and really cleverly plotted, and I loved watching it all unfold.
But for me, it was all about the romance, and I was not disappointed. I won’t say too much, but the chemistry, the emotion and the passion was all there, and it was everything that I wanted when Jag and Viviette find their happy together.
The stage is set for what is sure to be a fantastic ending to the trilogy, and I am so excited to see where the story is going to go from here.
I loved it! 5 stars!
Note - this book contains spoilers for the novella, Damask, so if you're planning on reading that one (and you should, because it's great), read it before you make a start on this one.
An Advanced Reader Copy of this book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
I’m becoming a little bit obsessed with this world, and with this book, Lisette Marshall well and truly sucked me in as she brings the romance, and OMG, I loved it!
This book is set a few months after the first book in the series, Velvet. Princess of the Peaks, Viviette, is home and loving her life at Rock Hall. She is happy and settled, and in a secret relationship with her father’s Spymaster, Jaghar, working with his team and helping to solve crimes and uncover secret plots within the Five Kingdoms.
And then her father declares that it is time for her to marry, and that he’s betrothed her to the widowed king of a far away country. For the sake of her father, her people, and the tentative peace within the Five Kingdoms, she has no choice but to go through with the marriage, even when it means saying goodbye to the man she loves.
He was the breath on her lips, the blood in her veins – because he alone made her feel fully and truly alive. Because he made her feel like her.
Viviette and Jaghar have the most fantastic dynamic. From enemies to lovers in the first book, they bickered and bantered, but their mad sexual chemistry drew them together and they found a connection that has rocked both of their worlds. They are now best friends, close confidants, trusted partners and red-hot lovers. Neither of them ever expected to fall for the other, and even though they’ve never actually said the words, it seems that’s exactly what has happened, and now they are forced to end it.
OMG, the feels are intense, and I loved seeing these two feel so much for each other! Their love was unexpected and, given their positions, they both knew that nothing could ever come of it, but seeing them torn apart is really freaking brutal.
“I’ll miss you, Velvet,” he whispered, resting his forehead against hers as he filled her again. “I’ll miss you more than I’ll ever find the words to say – but…” He closed his eyes, faltering at his next slow thrust. “Thank you for all you’ve been these months. And remember I’ll be there – I’ll always be there – whenever you need me. I promise.”
When Jaghar learns that Viviette is in danger as she travels to her new home in the Riverlands, he drops everything to get to her. So not only does the Princess have a loyal bodyguard for the journey, but Jaghar is by her side as she arrives at her new home. Which is just as well, because not all is as it seems in the Riverlands, with danger seeming to loom from multiple sources. And when Viviette begins to question the disappearance of her betrothed’s first wife, she begins to realise just how much danger she’s in.
The whole time, Jaghar is there for her, protecting and defending her, helping her work through the mysteries they are faced with, but keeping his distance out of loyalty to his King, and the knowledge that Viviette deserves so much better than he can offer. It’s a heartbreaking situation that is dripping with sexual tension as we feel the emotional intensity that burns between Jag and Viviette, but they can’t act on it, and the angst and longing had my heart pounding through each and every encounter.
“You make me feel so safe, and so strong – you make it so ridiculously easy to be the person I want to be.”
It’s exciting and intriguing, and I couldn’t turn the pages quick enough. My mind was spinning with theories to figure out what was going on within the castle walls - what happened to their last Queen? Is the bad guy who I think it is? What are they plotting? How is it all going to play out? And of course, when will Jag and Viviette get their happy ending? It’s a great read, well written, and really cleverly plotted, and I loved watching it all unfold.
But for me, it was all about the romance, and I was not disappointed. I won’t say too much, but the chemistry, the emotion and the passion was all there, and it was everything that I wanted when Jag and Viviette find their happy together.
“I want you to be mine, and mine alone. I want to be yours, and yours alone.”
The stage is set for what is sure to be a fantastic ending to the trilogy, and I am so excited to see where the story is going to go from here.
I loved it! 5 stars!
Note - this book contains spoilers for the novella, Damask, so if you're planning on reading that one (and you should, because it's great), read it before you make a start on this one.
An Advanced Reader Copy of this book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
January 3, 2022
First and foremost, make sure you finish this series before starting The Queen and the Assassin (which, in my opinion, is even better) because it takes the joy out of a certain plot twist.
While I unwittingly spoiled the surprise for myself, I'd still consider this book a worthwhile read. It had its flaws - I was frustrated with Viviette and Jaghar for a significant portion of the book BECAUSE THEY WERE BOTH FEELING THE EXACT SAME THINGS YET WOULDN'T TELL EACH OTHER - but it was still an enjoyable read. Don't let the caps tell you otherwise, I'm just ✨ dramatic ✨
Viviette doesn't let Jaghar get away with anything and I really love that, we need more female MC's who won't accept poor communication skills.
It was really interesting seeing Viviette and Jaghar in someone else's territory, and the climax of the story was absolutely brilliant - somehow incredibly passionate and heartwarmingly sweet at the same time!
While I unwittingly spoiled the surprise for myself, I'd still consider this book a worthwhile read. It had its flaws - I was frustrated with Viviette and Jaghar for a significant portion of the book BECAUSE THEY WERE BOTH FEELING THE EXACT SAME THINGS YET WOULDN'T TELL EACH OTHER - but it was still an enjoyable read. Don't let the caps tell you otherwise, I'm just ✨ dramatic ✨
Viviette doesn't let Jaghar get away with anything and I really love that, we need more female MC's who won't accept poor communication skills.
It was really interesting seeing Viviette and Jaghar in someone else's territory, and the climax of the story was absolutely brilliant - somehow incredibly passionate and heartwarmingly sweet at the same time!
June 24, 2021
The continuation of Vivivette and Jaghar's story is just as thrilling as the first one. Her father has found her a husband, King Donovan, and she must marry him as is her duty to her kingdom. But how can she marry a man that isn't Jaghar? And what secrets is King Donovan hiding?
This book was more action packed and steamy than the first one. Velvet (Viviette) is such an incredible and complex character and her love with Jaghar is something romances are made from.
This book was more action packed and steamy than the first one. Velvet (Viviette) is such an incredible and complex character and her love with Jaghar is something romances are made from.
June 29, 2021
Steamy fantasy romance at its hottest! Sexy and charming. Marshall hooked me again. Jaghar has earned a place on my list of forever-book-boyfriends.
May 26, 2023
These two are so smart and trustworthy
Again, just when you start to get nervous and fear the worse, our princess saves the day. Why? Because he trusts her too. Love it
Again, just when you start to get nervous and fear the worse, our princess saves the day. Why? Because he trusts her too. Love it
June 27, 2021
“Leather” is second in the trilogy The princess and the spy”, by Lisette Marshall. The story starts from a point where Jaghar and Viviette are comfortably living their passion, without too many expectations for the future. They like to be together, but they know that sooner or later the princess will have to face a marriage of convenience. And the moment arrives faster than they imagine: Viviette receives a proposal of marriage of the Kingdom of Riverlands, an opportunity of alliance between Peaks and a powerful neighbor. Unsurprisingly, Jaghar accompanies the princess to her new country, where they will face the truth about the feelings that unite them, as well as intrigues involving Viviette's fiancé, King Donovan, and the mysterious disappearance of his last wife, Ysabel.
It's the time for the spymaster and his Velvet discover that they cannot deny the power of their sentiments and they start to think they really want to be together, not just as a skilled pair of spy lovers, but also as a couple, king and queen of the Peaks. In “Leather”, Lisette introduces us a new place in her Five Kingdoms world, the kingdom of Riverlands and continues with the shaking pace of Jaghar and Viviette's adventures. You can expect for fights, scheming and, of course, the same steamy tension of “Velvet” between the lovers. Yes, that means hot and very explicit scenes, but with extremely elegant writing and without losing the emotional component you would expect from a good love story. In all, this is a worth sequel to “Velvet”, especially about the development of the world building and the increasing in Jaghar and Vivi’s emotional feelings. Now, I’m truly anxious to read “Silk” and know how the destinies of the characters and the future of the kingdom of Peaks will intertwine. Fortunately, the third book is coming in August, so we won't be long without news from the spymaster and his princess.
It's the time for the spymaster and his Velvet discover that they cannot deny the power of their sentiments and they start to think they really want to be together, not just as a skilled pair of spy lovers, but also as a couple, king and queen of the Peaks. In “Leather”, Lisette introduces us a new place in her Five Kingdoms world, the kingdom of Riverlands and continues with the shaking pace of Jaghar and Viviette's adventures. You can expect for fights, scheming and, of course, the same steamy tension of “Velvet” between the lovers. Yes, that means hot and very explicit scenes, but with extremely elegant writing and without losing the emotional component you would expect from a good love story. In all, this is a worth sequel to “Velvet”, especially about the development of the world building and the increasing in Jaghar and Vivi’s emotional feelings. Now, I’m truly anxious to read “Silk” and know how the destinies of the characters and the future of the kingdom of Peaks will intertwine. Fortunately, the third book is coming in August, so we won't be long without news from the spymaster and his princess.
June 22, 2021
Lisette has done it again. Not that I ever doubted her, but then again, it's pretty hard to top a book I read in two days... so naturally, I also devoured Leather in two days. Maybe slightly less - it was a quick read. I have THOUGHTS. Most of which involve variations of 'how dare you make this so cute and witty at the same time.'
We pick up four months after Velvet left off, and it's been four very happy months of bliss for Viviette and Jaghar. They're still keeping their relationship quiet, of course, but enjoying each other thoroughly behind closed doors. That is until news of Viviette's engagement arrives, and brings the extended honeymoon to a screeching halt. The two break things off as Viviette gets shipped off to her new home to meet and wed her husband, but it soon becomes very clear that all is not as it seems. Leather quickly goes from romance to murder mystery (but still a romance), and I thoroughly enjoyed the ride.
And I'll say it once again...that ending had no right being that cute. I'm smiling like an idiot to no one. Five stars, because obviously this deserves more.
We pick up four months after Velvet left off, and it's been four very happy months of bliss for Viviette and Jaghar. They're still keeping their relationship quiet, of course, but enjoying each other thoroughly behind closed doors. That is until news of Viviette's engagement arrives, and brings the extended honeymoon to a screeching halt. The two break things off as Viviette gets shipped off to her new home to meet and wed her husband, but it soon becomes very clear that all is not as it seems. Leather quickly goes from romance to murder mystery (but still a romance), and I thoroughly enjoyed the ride.
And I'll say it once again...that ending had no right being that cute. I'm smiling like an idiot to no one. Five stars, because obviously this deserves more.
December 18, 2021
(If you're here after reading book 1 "Velvet", I strongly recommend that you read the novella "Damask" before reading book 2 "Leather" - the novella shows the growth of their relationship, and also provides extra context for book 2!)
[UPDATE: Damask is only available for download from the author's BookFunnel. If you have the Velvet ebook, she has included the download link at the end of it. Or else, you could message her on Instagram at "authorlisettemarshall" and I'm sure she'll be happy to share the link, she's really nice!]
An amazing second book, I absolutely loved the angst in this one, as well as the ending. It was the best mix of romance and mystery, and very very gripping ❤️
TW: Sexual assault scenes both in the present and as flashback
There were SO many cool tropes and plotlines in this trilogy!
⭐ Forbidden Love (and so much angst 🥲)
⭐ Murder mysteries (MCs solving mysteries together 💯)
⭐ Spying, political intrigue
⭐ Uncovering secrets and betrayals
... and so many more subplots!
The ending was SO good, I've reread it like multiple times ❤️ I love Vivi and Jaghar so much!
[UPDATE: Damask is only available for download from the author's BookFunnel. If you have the Velvet ebook, she has included the download link at the end of it. Or else, you could message her on Instagram at "authorlisettemarshall" and I'm sure she'll be happy to share the link, she's really nice!]
An amazing second book, I absolutely loved the angst in this one, as well as the ending. It was the best mix of romance and mystery, and very very gripping ❤️
TW: Sexual assault scenes both in the present and as flashback
There were SO many cool tropes and plotlines in this trilogy!
⭐ Forbidden Love (and so much angst 🥲)
⭐ Murder mysteries (MCs solving mysteries together 💯)
⭐ Spying, political intrigue
⭐ Uncovering secrets and betrayals
... and so many more subplots!
The ending was SO good, I've reread it like multiple times ❤️ I love Vivi and Jaghar so much!
September 5, 2021
After reading book one, Velvet, I had to continue with the adventures of Vivi and Jaghar. Their fraught and intense love affair meets with a major obstacle as the princess confronts the necessity of a marriage of state. I appreciated that her duty to comply and his duty to support her weren't glossed over - AND I love the dramatic rescue. Marshall is finding her storytelling footing here and I very much enjoyed. Definitely recommend!
December 9, 2022
Leather was a fabulous continuation of the Princess & The Spy Trilogy! Not only was this book extremely steamy again, but it also had political intrigue, creepy foreshadowing and a few twists that left me reeling! Fantasy lovers definitely need to check out this trilogy!
Viviette and Jaghar were both forced to put duty ahead of their own needs, when she was told by her father that she was to be married to another. My heart ached for them. Because regardless of what was expected of them, they still wanted each other. Unfortunately that just couldn't be. So as the story unfolded, we found them again searching for clues, trying to discover the bigger picture and I loved watching them work as a team. Together they seemed unstoppable, even with so many obstacles in their way! And when some twists not only left them blindsided, but me too, I was left gasping and hoping for blood or retribution!
Jaghar was definitely my favorite in this book. I loved how he could be so smart, calm, collected, clever, and selfless. It not only made me fall harder for him, but my heart ached for life to be fair to him. It seemed like an impossible feat at times since who he cared for was to be married to another. But that didn't matter when it came to protecting Viviette. The things he did in this story to keep her safe?! *Swoon* Jaghar was amazing! Viviette stepped up her game too and I loved how she tried her best to do what was expected of her but at the end of the day she did what she thought was right. My respect for her climbed even higher.
With mystery, intrigue, sacrifice, romance and the stakes being even higher, Leather was a fantastic addition to The Princess & The Spy Trilogy! I'm definitely thankful that this series is complete because I have to know how Jaghar and Viviette's story ends! Fans of steamy Fantasy should check this one out!
For more of my reviews, please visit:
‘I did what I thought was best for you.’
‘But you didn’t bother asking what I thought was best for me.’
Viviette and Jaghar were both forced to put duty ahead of their own needs, when she was told by her father that she was to be married to another. My heart ached for them. Because regardless of what was expected of them, they still wanted each other. Unfortunately that just couldn't be. So as the story unfolded, we found them again searching for clues, trying to discover the bigger picture and I loved watching them work as a team. Together they seemed unstoppable, even with so many obstacles in their way! And when some twists not only left them blindsided, but me too, I was left gasping and hoping for blood or retribution!
‘Tell me if you want to get out of here,’ he muttered. The words left a bitter taste of treason on his tongue, but for once, with the mixture of rage and concern burning in his veins, he couldn’t bring himself to care.
Jaghar was definitely my favorite in this book. I loved how he could be so smart, calm, collected, clever, and selfless. It not only made me fall harder for him, but my heart ached for life to be fair to him. It seemed like an impossible feat at times since who he cared for was to be married to another. But that didn't matter when it came to protecting Viviette. The things he did in this story to keep her safe?! *Swoon* Jaghar was amazing! Viviette stepped up her game too and I loved how she tried her best to do what was expected of her but at the end of the day she did what she thought was right. My respect for her climbed even higher.
‘I never told you…’ His voice was hoarse, but the words fell from his lips easily as if he had written them out in his mind. ‘I never really told you – what you do to me, what you’ve been doing to me since the day you came storming into that corridor to eavesdrop on your own bloody father—’
A smile broke through on her face at the memory.
With mystery, intrigue, sacrifice, romance and the stakes being even higher, Leather was a fantastic addition to The Princess & The Spy Trilogy! I'm definitely thankful that this series is complete because I have to know how Jaghar and Viviette's story ends! Fans of steamy Fantasy should check this one out!
For more of my reviews, please visit:
June 24, 2021
This book is everything you wanted at the end of Velvet! Vivivette and Jaghar had so much chemistry - how could they be satisfied with their situation, amirite? Viviette's arranged marriage forces everything to the forefront. ALL the feels. From the beginning something about the arrangement and the prospective groom to be felt off to them, but can they figure out what is going on and who the real enemy is before it is too late?
I loved that right from the beginning we see how clever the two of them are and how well they work together as an espionage team and complement one another. The romantic tension in this one is off the charts. Primarily a love story, it is wrapped around a murder mystery and some serious political ramifications. This book has a couple steamy fully consensual scenes. It also gets a bit darker than the first in that it includes *trigger warning* a rape scene and a character dealing with PTSD from assault and rape.
Book 2 in the Princess and the Spy series, plot-wise it can be read as a standalone, but I think reads better after Velvet where you get to see more character development and the relationship building.
I loved that right from the beginning we see how clever the two of them are and how well they work together as an espionage team and complement one another. The romantic tension in this one is off the charts. Primarily a love story, it is wrapped around a murder mystery and some serious political ramifications. This book has a couple steamy fully consensual scenes. It also gets a bit darker than the first in that it includes *trigger warning* a rape scene and a character dealing with PTSD from assault and rape.
Book 2 in the Princess and the Spy series, plot-wise it can be read as a standalone, but I think reads better after Velvet where you get to see more character development and the relationship building.
December 1, 2023
This book went places I did not expect at all. There was a lot of me very disappointed in the lack of any actual relationship growth between Viviette and Jaghar bc they were both too dense to talk to the other person about how they felt (which was very annoying). But still an enjoyable read.
Everything with Ysabel was so horrifying and also kind of… glossed over so quickly at the end, they just briefly mentioned the horrors she’d been through, dropped her off at home and went on their merry way. Idk I felt like there needed to be more with that whole plot line, maybe there will be but dang that was intense for what felt kind of like a throwaway thing just to get viviette and jaghar in close proximity again.
Also it’s kind of been driving me crazy that I can’t figure out jaghar’s age. We know that viviette is 19 and I think it was mentioned that Donovan is 30, and joghar was taken by what’s his face when he was 11 and he’s been with the court for 9 years… but I know there was a gap of him being a beggar between being 11 and coming to the court and it just bothers me that I can’t figure it out lol
⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️.5
3rd person dual pov
Everything with Ysabel was so horrifying and also kind of… glossed over so quickly at the end, they just briefly mentioned the horrors she’d been through, dropped her off at home and went on their merry way. Idk I felt like there needed to be more with that whole plot line, maybe there will be but dang that was intense for what felt kind of like a throwaway thing just to get viviette and jaghar in close proximity again.
Also it’s kind of been driving me crazy that I can’t figure out jaghar’s age. We know that viviette is 19 and I think it was mentioned that Donovan is 30, and joghar was taken by what’s his face when he was 11 and he’s been with the court for 9 years… but I know there was a gap of him being a beggar between being 11 and coming to the court and it just bothers me that I can’t figure it out lol
⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️.5
3rd person dual pov
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 8, 2023
Sometimes middle books are obvious filler books - THIS ONE WAS NOT! again, I inhaled this book like a glass of water at 3 am. Lisette destroyed my soul with this book as well. I am obsessed with Vivi and Jaghar. I love them so much.
This book starts off with poor Vivi having to go and live with her new betrothed and Jaghar realizing he must end things between them because she is a princess and must wed someone of Royal blood. Because their world is backwards and women aren’t seen as someone who can hold power… for now. 👀
Shit goes down, and not all is as it seems in this new kingdom. Jaghar swoops in like the spymaster he is and protects his secret lady love Vivi.
Not only is this book incredibly steamy and romantic, but the mystery and suspense of the secrets and drama happening are SO GOOD. I was on the edge of my seat the entire book. The ending had me dancing with joy, and immediately downloading the last of the series. If you’re reading this, please do yourself a favor and download the first book - Velvet. (But check CWs first!) it’s such an amazing series that deserves all the praise!
This book starts off with poor Vivi having to go and live with her new betrothed and Jaghar realizing he must end things between them because she is a princess and must wed someone of Royal blood. Because their world is backwards and women aren’t seen as someone who can hold power… for now. 👀
Shit goes down, and not all is as it seems in this new kingdom. Jaghar swoops in like the spymaster he is and protects his secret lady love Vivi.
Not only is this book incredibly steamy and romantic, but the mystery and suspense of the secrets and drama happening are SO GOOD. I was on the edge of my seat the entire book. The ending had me dancing with joy, and immediately downloading the last of the series. If you’re reading this, please do yourself a favor and download the first book - Velvet. (But check CWs first!) it’s such an amazing series that deserves all the praise!
March 15, 2025
“Because he was the breath on her lips, the blood in her veins – because he alone made her feel fully and truly alive.” 💛
I loved this book so much and it was such a great follow up to the first book in the series! The way Jahgar fought to keep Viviette safe made me tear up because he loves her so much. He had to fight against his feelings and push her away because he didn’t think he was good enough for her but all along she didn’t care! Their miscommunication killed me sometimes but I’m glad they finally talked things out by the end of the book!
“I love you, I want you, I need you, I don’t want to see you in anyone else’s arms ever again.”
Jahgar and Vivette’s love for each other is so passionate and all-consuming and I love reading about their forbidden romance. Now that it looks like they may not need to sneak around with each other anymore, I can’t wait to read how their love story concludes in the final book!
If you love forbidden romance; spicy romantasy; murder mystery; and political intrigue, then definitely check out this book and the entire series! ❤️
I loved this book so much and it was such a great follow up to the first book in the series! The way Jahgar fought to keep Viviette safe made me tear up because he loves her so much. He had to fight against his feelings and push her away because he didn’t think he was good enough for her but all along she didn’t care! Their miscommunication killed me sometimes but I’m glad they finally talked things out by the end of the book!
“I love you, I want you, I need you, I don’t want to see you in anyone else’s arms ever again.”
Jahgar and Vivette’s love for each other is so passionate and all-consuming and I love reading about their forbidden romance. Now that it looks like they may not need to sneak around with each other anymore, I can’t wait to read how their love story concludes in the final book!
If you love forbidden romance; spicy romantasy; murder mystery; and political intrigue, then definitely check out this book and the entire series! ❤️
June 29, 2021
This second book in The princess and the Spy, is the continued tale of Viviette and Jaghar. Their connection is still strong yet muddled by past scars and dark times. The past still haunts the Spymaster and it makes it that more difficult for Viviette to understand his reasons. BUT when her life is suddenly changed and she is forced to marry (for the sake of the country's alliance with their neighboring kingdoms) a prince she certainly does not love, she is relieved to know that Jaghar will always be there to protect her.
The story is thrilling and filled with pent-up passion and longing. At times I was on the edge of my seat when the story progressed in the end building up to the final climax. Couldn't stop reading by then. And oh the passion those two share is amazing and the author does show their love and connection quite brilliantly. Looking so much forward to read the next book... they will certainly still have some hardships to face.
The story is thrilling and filled with pent-up passion and longing. At times I was on the edge of my seat when the story progressed in the end building up to the final climax. Couldn't stop reading by then. And oh the passion those two share is amazing and the author does show their love and connection quite brilliantly. Looking so much forward to read the next book... they will certainly still have some hardships to face.
September 2, 2021
After the events of book 1, the hero and heroine know they love each other but oh noes now she must do her duty as a princess and go marry a distant king... How will they ever be together????
Fortunately hero tags along on the journey to Distant King's castle and they discover all is not as it seems. The mystery in this one surrounds the death of Distant King's first wife.
Very fast-paced and super tense. The atmosphere of the Riverlands fortress is ominous and claustrophobic, and I was genuinely worried for both characters' safety at various points. Lots of angst in this one, as each of them is trying their best to stay away from the other For Duty.
Content notes
Sexual violence
Fortunately hero tags along on the journey to Distant King's castle and they discover all is not as it seems. The mystery in this one surrounds the death of Distant King's first wife.
Very fast-paced and super tense. The atmosphere of the Riverlands fortress is ominous and claustrophobic, and I was genuinely worried for both characters' safety at various points. Lots of angst in this one, as each of them is trying their best to stay away from the other For Duty.
Content notes
Sexual violence
February 7, 2023
Leather
The Princess & The Spy #2
Fantasy
Lisette Marshall
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The pacing of this was very good, I actually finished reading in about 5 hours and I couldn't put it down.
There was more of the miscommunication trope though and I just found it frustrating 😅. I wanted to knock some sense into both Jaghar and Viviette.
My heart broke for Viviette throughout this book. Her father, the king, has agreed to an arranged marriage with King Donovan but her heart belongs to Jaghar.
It was interesting to see the secrets surrounding King Donovan unravel but I wish there was more background/world building when it came to his kingdom and Ysabel.
I don't think this book was quite as good as the previous one but I still really enjoyed it and I'm looking forward to reading the final book in this series.
The Princess & The Spy #2
Fantasy
Lisette Marshall
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The pacing of this was very good, I actually finished reading in about 5 hours and I couldn't put it down.
There was more of the miscommunication trope though and I just found it frustrating 😅. I wanted to knock some sense into both Jaghar and Viviette.
My heart broke for Viviette throughout this book. Her father, the king, has agreed to an arranged marriage with King Donovan but her heart belongs to Jaghar.
It was interesting to see the secrets surrounding King Donovan unravel but I wish there was more background/world building when it came to his kingdom and Ysabel.
I don't think this book was quite as good as the previous one but I still really enjoyed it and I'm looking forward to reading the final book in this series.
July 1, 2021
Thank you Lisette Marshall for the awesome chance to read your new ARC.
Lisette Marshall has done it again. After the small novella Damask, where we tag along as Viviette and Jaghar play detective, comes the second full book Leather.
Now Leather was a great June read and a fast one at that. In Leather, Viviette has to accept that it's time to get married for the good of her kingdom...but that would mean parting from that grumpy but hot spymaster of hers.
Mind you, that parting was anything but nice to my heart. Fear not that those two will always find a way to be together and to face danger as a strong pair.
I really liked this book and I am so excited for the next one. Lisette I want that happy ending please ;)
Lisette Marshall has done it again. After the small novella Damask, where we tag along as Viviette and Jaghar play detective, comes the second full book Leather.
Now Leather was a great June read and a fast one at that. In Leather, Viviette has to accept that it's time to get married for the good of her kingdom...but that would mean parting from that grumpy but hot spymaster of hers.
Mind you, that parting was anything but nice to my heart. Fear not that those two will always find a way to be together and to face danger as a strong pair.
I really liked this book and I am so excited for the next one. Lisette I want that happy ending please ;)
May 6, 2022
How does one even begin to describe a series and an author so perfect when there are not enough superlatives available in the world?
Lisette Marshall’s way of blending suspense, slow burn, steam, love, and action with two perfect characters is magical, mythical, wonderful. Viviette and Jaghar are smart, funny, sexy, in equal measure. I’ve never loved the main characters equally in most series. With these two, everything is perfection! The action is fast paced, the mysteries are murky and keep you guessing, the tension is brilliant and the steam is awesome. Unputdownable!
Lisette Marshall’s way of blending suspense, slow burn, steam, love, and action with two perfect characters is magical, mythical, wonderful. Viviette and Jaghar are smart, funny, sexy, in equal measure. I’ve never loved the main characters equally in most series. With these two, everything is perfection! The action is fast paced, the mysteries are murky and keep you guessing, the tension is brilliant and the steam is awesome. Unputdownable!
June 18, 2023
A must read if you like pity parties, questionable writing choices for a medieval setting, and an alarming twist that didn’t remotely get enough time dedicated to it.
I can’t remember what possessed me to read the second one after Velvet fell so low on my list - still just not wanting to be done the Fae Isles probably - and I’m now just ultra convinced that if we cut out the self-sacrificing whining, all these could have been one okay book.. that STILL could have been solved with a simple conversation.
I can’t remember what possessed me to read the second one after Velvet fell so low on my list - still just not wanting to be done the Fae Isles probably - and I’m now just ultra convinced that if we cut out the self-sacrificing whining, all these could have been one okay book.. that STILL could have been solved with a simple conversation.
June 22, 2021
Viviette (Velvet) is being married off to a king she’s never met and leaving the man she loves to do her duty to her kingdom. Jaghar founds out there are assassins that are going to kill Velvet. The story has a lot of twists and turns. It is a great second book and it is well worth reading. You need to read “Leather” to see what happens to Velvet and Jaghar! Will they finally get their happy ever after or will duty still get in the way!
This is my honest review!
This is my honest review!
March 31, 2022
Admittedly I loved Velvet more than I did Leather, but there was something about this book that had me so enthralled. I hit 50% and couldn't put it down that I ended up finishing it in a matter of hours. The last bit of the book was SO good, especially that ending. Now.. Book three I can already tell is going to knock it out of the park. Well done by Marshall, I've already purchased book three and will be starting it immediately. And probably finishing it very quickly!! LOL
November 1, 2022
TW: rape (not MCs)
If you're into pining and forbidden love and lack of admitting feelings, this book is for you.
It's not what I personally enjoy, but it was well executed so I see no reason to deduct another star.
It's not nearly as steamy as the first book, and I found myself rather bored about halfway through and put the book down for several months before continuing it. I'm hoping the third will be more engaging.
If you're into pining and forbidden love and lack of admitting feelings, this book is for you.
It's not what I personally enjoy, but it was well executed so I see no reason to deduct another star.
It's not nearly as steamy as the first book, and I found myself rather bored about halfway through and put the book down for several months before continuing it. I'm hoping the third will be more engaging.
October 19, 2023
This book had so many great elements: a forbidden romance tangled up in the political affairs and solving a mystery.
The authors writing is so charming, it's impossible to not like the characters Vivienne alias Velvet and Jaghar. Again there was a swoon-worthy romance with delicious spicy scenes.
As I made the mistake to read the Queen and Assassin series first, some events of this book were not that surprising but the story was sufficiently written with tension and suspense.
The authors writing is so charming, it's impossible to not like the characters Vivienne alias Velvet and Jaghar. Again there was a swoon-worthy romance with delicious spicy scenes.
As I made the mistake to read the Queen and Assassin series first, some events of this book were not that surprising but the story was sufficiently written with tension and suspense.
November 9, 2024
Second novella in The Princess & The Spy trilogy. Fallowing Velvet and Jaghar as they deal with traveling and meeting Velvets betroth. However upon arriving they stumble into a mystery. The mystery was interesting but there was a heavy element of miscommunication throughout the story. While it exist for understandable reasons it was frustrating to see given there history of comminicating. A middle book in the trilogy but not a bad middle book overall.
July 8, 2025
⭐️⭐️
Unfortunately, this one didn’t work for me.
I went into Leather hoping for a dark, seductive, high-stakes fantasy—but what I got felt more like style over substance. The concept had promise, and there were moments where the tension and world hinted at something deeper, but overall, it just didn’t deliver.
The pacing dragged, the plot felt thin, and the characters never fully clicked for me. I found myself skimming more than reading, waiting for something to happen. The dynamic between the leads lacked the emotional weight I was hoping for, and while the writing had flashes of beauty, it often felt bogged down by repetition and slow movement.
I can see how others might enjoy the vibe and aesthetic, but personally, it left me feeling underwhelmed.
Unfortunately, this one didn’t work for me.
I went into Leather hoping for a dark, seductive, high-stakes fantasy—but what I got felt more like style over substance. The concept had promise, and there were moments where the tension and world hinted at something deeper, but overall, it just didn’t deliver.
The pacing dragged, the plot felt thin, and the characters never fully clicked for me. I found myself skimming more than reading, waiting for something to happen. The dynamic between the leads lacked the emotional weight I was hoping for, and while the writing had flashes of beauty, it often felt bogged down by repetition and slow movement.
I can see how others might enjoy the vibe and aesthetic, but personally, it left me feeling underwhelmed.
June 27, 2021
This trilogy just gets better and better. It contains everything you need for a gripping read - and covers so many genres. This continuing story of Princess Viviette and Jaghar the spy is full of drama, danger, passion and intrigue. What more do you need? I received an ARC and am leaving a totally voluntary, unbiased and honest review.
June 25, 2022
Wow, what a clever story! I did not see that coming (except for the part I was spoiled cause I've already read the Queen & the Assassin). An emotional read: hearts are broken and healed, some horrifying scenes. The lies are a bit much at times. The spice is, as always, amazing. Love the writing.
A good ending before the closure is coming in Silk.
A good ending before the closure is coming in Silk.
May 22, 2024
3.5 stars! Still a bit rough but there’s more of a plot this time beyond the sex, which is toned down from the first. These are popcorn novels, despite starring a Spymaster/Royalty there’s not much political maneuvering. This one is more about the angst of having to marry for political reasons when you are in love with someone else. At 250 pages it’s a quick and fun read.
September 3, 2024
it's kind of insane to me how this series isn't more popular, by far one of my most favorite relationship dynamics in a book to date. the angst!!! the TENSION!!!!! the STEEAAAAM!!! and a damn good plot to go along with it. all my favorite tropes in a book series. i'm already putting off the third book because i don't want it to be over 😭
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews