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The Ghost and The Fallen
Illusionist trickster, Jinx, has spent her entire life away from her family. Unable to be near them from a deal she’s struck. she lives by the names and faces of others, being the one thing society fears. A Cursed, a magic user. Reaching the age of 20, she’s visited again by the creature from the woods in her dreams. One year to break the deal, solve the riddle, and return home.
Son of the Seven and heir to his family, Apollo Voclaine, lives at the peak of aristocracy. However, he lives with a secret that could potentially destroy him in the eyes of society. Magic hidden in his bones and a devil embedded in his soul, Apollo searches for the remedy to rid of his abilities. When he encounters the illusionist no one has set eyes on, he offers her a deal she’s unable to refuse
Son of the Seven and heir to his family, Apollo Voclaine, lives at the peak of aristocracy. However, he lives with a secret that could potentially destroy him in the eyes of society. Magic hidden in his bones and a devil embedded in his soul, Apollo searches for the remedy to rid of his abilities. When he encounters the illusionist no one has set eyes on, he offers her a deal she’s unable to refuse
391 pages, Hardcover
Published November 9, 2023
About the author
Lana J. Prince
3 books20 followersLana J. Prince is an American–Argentinian aspiring author who appeals to the Young Adult Fantasy audience. She has always had a passion for the arts whether it be: Sketching, Dancing, Film and TV, or in this case Writing! Lana had started her writing journey back in middle school when she learned about wattpad (before you try to search… no, it did not go well. I deleted them.) Though years later, she rediscovered her love for reading, eventually getting the crazy idea to start writing again.
If Lana isn’t writing she is spending most of her time on google searching for synonyms. She’s currently in the works of her first novel and can’t wait to share it with the rest of the community.
If Lana isn’t writing she is spending most of her time on google searching for synonyms. She’s currently in the works of her first novel and can’t wait to share it with the rest of the community.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
November 16, 2023
Thank you to Netgalley and Lana J. Prince for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review
•✿•➳3.5✫
"𝓘 𝔀𝓲𝓵𝓵 𝓭𝓸 𝓮𝓿𝓮𝓻𝔂𝓽𝓱𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓲𝓷 𝓶𝔂 𝓹𝓸𝔀𝓮𝓻 𝓽𝓸 𝓱𝓮𝓵𝓹 𝔂𝓸𝓾. 𝓔𝓿𝓮𝓷 𝓲𝓯 𝓘 𝓭𝓲𝓮 𝓽𝓻𝔂𝓲𝓷𝓰"
Jinx is such a badass character; I really like her. Her power is deadly and so damn cool. I'm really invested in her character in the next book.
Apollo is my sweet tortured soul, and I just want to wrap him in a warm blanket. He cared for his family, which is heartwarming to see, yet he sacrificed himself doing so.
Honestly, I came in with zero expectations. I almost forgot this arc first of all. but I didn't expect to love this.
Story-wise, it's not original at all. As I read this I found myself saying oh this reminds me of this book and that book but it has it's own characteristics and I like it. I can see the twist from the start and some information dumping at first here and there but it doesn't take the fun away from me to enjoy the book.
It consists of magic, action packed, secret alliances, a little bit of enemies to lovers, and one bed🤭
•✿•➳3.5✫
"𝓘 𝔀𝓲𝓵𝓵 𝓭𝓸 𝓮𝓿𝓮𝓻𝔂𝓽𝓱𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓲𝓷 𝓶𝔂 𝓹𝓸𝔀𝓮𝓻 𝓽𝓸 𝓱𝓮𝓵𝓹 𝔂𝓸𝓾. 𝓔𝓿𝓮𝓷 𝓲𝓯 𝓘 𝓭𝓲𝓮 𝓽𝓻𝔂𝓲𝓷𝓰"
Jinx is an illusionist trickster unable to be near her family because of a deal she's made and to break it she has to solve the riddle. Apollo Voclaine lives with magic hidden and secrets inside him. When the two meet Apollo offers her a deal that can help her.
Jinx is such a badass character; I really like her. Her power is deadly and so damn cool. I'm really invested in her character in the next book.
Apollo is my sweet tortured soul, and I just want to wrap him in a warm blanket. He cared for his family, which is heartwarming to see, yet he sacrificed himself doing so.
Honestly, I came in with zero expectations. I almost forgot this arc first of all. but I didn't expect to love this.
Story-wise, it's not original at all. As I read this I found myself saying oh this reminds me of this book and that book but it has it's own characteristics and I like it. I can see the twist from the start and some information dumping at first here and there but it doesn't take the fun away from me to enjoy the book.
It consists of magic, action packed, secret alliances, a little bit of enemies to lovers, and one bed🤭
November 6, 2023
A thrilling first book in a series that is action-packed filled with twists and turns around each corner and an intricate magic system that will leave you waiting on the next one.
No spoilers -- Jinx is searching for the answer to a riddle that will finally bring her back home. Apollo is also searching for answers to questions that he hasn't even allowed himself to consider. Both find themselves working with each other, jumping headfirst into an intrigue that is more dangerous than either of them bargained for.
I enjoyed our main characters and their budding friendship immensely, as well as others that Jinx was able to establish throughout the book. Jinx was a delightful creature, capable of many things, and not just because of her magic. Both she and Apollo are idealists searching to make their world a better place despite some of their perceived selfish behavior. I enjoyed the world building that seemed to mimic late 19th and early 20th centuries in addition to the god-like divinities and powers of the Cursed that lent to the magic structure of the book.
This was fast-paced and well plotted, mimicking social issues between classes that was almost akin to the X-Men universe -- humans versus the Cursed. I couldn't wait to keep going back for more. This ended on a cliffhanger, I can't wait to see the next chapter of Jinx and Apollo's story unfold.
A big thank you to NetGalley and Lana J Prince for an advanced e-copy of this book.
Note: I understand that this is an uncorrected copy, but there were a lot of editing errors. I was able to look past them as I thoroughly enjoyed this one!
No spoilers -- Jinx is searching for the answer to a riddle that will finally bring her back home. Apollo is also searching for answers to questions that he hasn't even allowed himself to consider. Both find themselves working with each other, jumping headfirst into an intrigue that is more dangerous than either of them bargained for.
I enjoyed our main characters and their budding friendship immensely, as well as others that Jinx was able to establish throughout the book. Jinx was a delightful creature, capable of many things, and not just because of her magic. Both she and Apollo are idealists searching to make their world a better place despite some of their perceived selfish behavior. I enjoyed the world building that seemed to mimic late 19th and early 20th centuries in addition to the god-like divinities and powers of the Cursed that lent to the magic structure of the book.
This was fast-paced and well plotted, mimicking social issues between classes that was almost akin to the X-Men universe -- humans versus the Cursed. I couldn't wait to keep going back for more. This ended on a cliffhanger, I can't wait to see the next chapter of Jinx and Apollo's story unfold.
A big thank you to NetGalley and Lana J Prince for an advanced e-copy of this book.
Note: I understand that this is an uncorrected copy, but there were a lot of editing errors. I was able to look past them as I thoroughly enjoyed this one!
October 14, 2023
I am not going to lie.....I under estimated this book..and it is haunting me - UGH IT ISN'T EVEN RELEASED AND I NEED THE SECOND BOOK!!
Thank you Lana and NetGalley for the advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review!
Synopsis:
Illusionist Jinx has fought and survived after making a deal with a demon years ago. She has one year to crack the riddle and get back to her family, while also trying to fight for her Cursed people that are being murdered just because of who they are.
Son of the Seven and heir to his family, Apollo Voclaine, lives at the peak of aristocracy. However, he lives with a secret that could potentially destroy him in the eyes of society. Magic hidden in his bones and a devil embedded in his soul, Apollo searches for the remedy to rid of his abilities. When he encounters the illusionist no one has set eyes on, he offers her a deal she’s unable to refuse.
When I tell you, this is a fantasy book you NEED to read - I mean it.
We have such a different fantasy story that the author nails in terms of world building. There is a bit of info dumping in the beginning - but what fantasy book doesn't have this?
The Cursed reminded me of X-Men powers, and yet so different.
MFC: Jinx is probably one of the most badass female characters. She never came off annoying. Her backstory and character development were so heart wrenching, I was so invested in her story.
MMC: Apollo - He was giving Mr. Darcy vibes in terms of being guarded, stoic, playing a role of strength in order to not hurt others. You get his POV and I loved being able to bear witness to his internal and external struggles. He is a tortured soul and I was so connected to his inner dialogue.
AND THEN - LANA - THE ENDING - FUCKING RIPPED ME TO SHREDS. I WAS FUCKIN CRYING. My baby Apollo - UGHHHH.
Plot: Overall, I loved the story line - there were times where I think the author needs to clean up a bit in terms of moving onto next scenes. The ending - get ready for a massive cliffhanger and heartbreak.
This was a more romantic read in terms of the fantasy I am used to.
Side characters: Apollo's family - I need to be adopted into. I loved everyone's interactions together, and you get to know each and everyone one of them through Jinx's interactions.
Tropes:
Enemies to lovers - but in a way that I have never seen done before - and I loved. EVERY second of it.
Slow burn - and I mean, SLOW.
One bed
Found family
Cursed/ special abilities
Dark Secrets
100% recommend!
Release Date: 11/9/2023
Thank you Lana and NetGalley for the advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review!
Synopsis:
Illusionist Jinx has fought and survived after making a deal with a demon years ago. She has one year to crack the riddle and get back to her family, while also trying to fight for her Cursed people that are being murdered just because of who they are.
Son of the Seven and heir to his family, Apollo Voclaine, lives at the peak of aristocracy. However, he lives with a secret that could potentially destroy him in the eyes of society. Magic hidden in his bones and a devil embedded in his soul, Apollo searches for the remedy to rid of his abilities. When he encounters the illusionist no one has set eyes on, he offers her a deal she’s unable to refuse.
When I tell you, this is a fantasy book you NEED to read - I mean it.
We have such a different fantasy story that the author nails in terms of world building. There is a bit of info dumping in the beginning - but what fantasy book doesn't have this?
The Cursed reminded me of X-Men powers, and yet so different.
MFC: Jinx is probably one of the most badass female characters. She never came off annoying. Her backstory and character development were so heart wrenching, I was so invested in her story.
MMC: Apollo - He was giving Mr. Darcy vibes in terms of being guarded, stoic, playing a role of strength in order to not hurt others. You get his POV and I loved being able to bear witness to his internal and external struggles. He is a tortured soul and I was so connected to his inner dialogue.
AND THEN - LANA - THE ENDING - FUCKING RIPPED ME TO SHREDS. I WAS FUCKIN CRYING. My baby Apollo - UGHHHH.
Plot: Overall, I loved the story line - there were times where I think the author needs to clean up a bit in terms of moving onto next scenes. The ending - get ready for a massive cliffhanger and heartbreak.
This was a more romantic read in terms of the fantasy I am used to.
Side characters: Apollo's family - I need to be adopted into. I loved everyone's interactions together, and you get to know each and everyone one of them through Jinx's interactions.
Tropes:
Enemies to lovers - but in a way that I have never seen done before - and I loved. EVERY second of it.
Slow burn - and I mean, SLOW.
One bed
Found family
Cursed/ special abilities
Dark Secrets
100% recommend!
Release Date: 11/9/2023
September 17, 2023
Fantasy
Romance
Mystery
Grumpy MMC
Dangerous MFC
Secret Society
Spicy
Jinx has not had contact with her Mother and uncle since she was eight years old. Living in the slums in absolute poverty was too much to handle. To help her mother, Jinx went into the forest to find the legendary creature of the woods to make a bargain to help her family.
The creature granted her wish at a cost, she was not allowed to contact her family in any way unless she solved the riddle that ended her curse. Breaking the rules meant instant death for her mother.
The curse has its benefits because she is able to change her form in any way, mimicking anyone she wanted to be.
The only way for Jinx to survive on her own is through crime. Now that she has turned 20, she only has a year left to break the curse.
Apollo Voclaine, an emotionless son of a Duke teams up with Jinx to try and break the curse. He fights to remain cold and distant towards Jinx but he keeps slipping up.
He has his own reasons to break the curse, because the reason for him supressing his emotions is eating him up alive.
Jinx moves into the Voclaine Mansion under false pretences and quickly falls in love with Apollo’s parents and siblings. She has not known love like this since she was home with her own mother and dreads the day the farce ends and she has to move on.
This is an action packed fantasy set in Victorian times and ends on a nail biting cliff hanger. If you love magic, mystery with romance and some spice then this is the book for you. I loved the banter between the two main characters and enjoyed the way they interacted with each other. I gave it four stars because there were parts that felt a bit slow but after a while it picked up nicely. I look forward to the next book of the series.
This book is definitely worth reading.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
A huge thank you to NetGalley and Lana J. Prince for this e-arc.
Romance
Mystery
Grumpy MMC
Dangerous MFC
Secret Society
Spicy
Jinx has not had contact with her Mother and uncle since she was eight years old. Living in the slums in absolute poverty was too much to handle. To help her mother, Jinx went into the forest to find the legendary creature of the woods to make a bargain to help her family.
The creature granted her wish at a cost, she was not allowed to contact her family in any way unless she solved the riddle that ended her curse. Breaking the rules meant instant death for her mother.
The curse has its benefits because she is able to change her form in any way, mimicking anyone she wanted to be.
The only way for Jinx to survive on her own is through crime. Now that she has turned 20, she only has a year left to break the curse.
Apollo Voclaine, an emotionless son of a Duke teams up with Jinx to try and break the curse. He fights to remain cold and distant towards Jinx but he keeps slipping up.
He has his own reasons to break the curse, because the reason for him supressing his emotions is eating him up alive.
Jinx moves into the Voclaine Mansion under false pretences and quickly falls in love with Apollo’s parents and siblings. She has not known love like this since she was home with her own mother and dreads the day the farce ends and she has to move on.
This is an action packed fantasy set in Victorian times and ends on a nail biting cliff hanger. If you love magic, mystery with romance and some spice then this is the book for you. I loved the banter between the two main characters and enjoyed the way they interacted with each other. I gave it four stars because there were parts that felt a bit slow but after a while it picked up nicely. I look forward to the next book of the series.
This book is definitely worth reading.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
A huge thank you to NetGalley and Lana J. Prince for this e-arc.
September 26, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley for sending me the eARC!
To begin, I'm not sure how so many pages went by with absolutely nothing occurring in them, it was painful to read knowing that if I skipped a chapter, there would be no plot progression. Sometimes I could like the book, and then it dragged on and on. The dialogue is overwhelming in the book, and the world-building is lackluster. I enjoyed the idea, I really did, just not the execution. This book could benefit from being half as long and telling the same amount of information. To top it all off, it needs to be edited, I found some glaring grammatical errors throughout the book that diminished the experience.
Character-wise, I liked Jinx and could grow to MAYBE enjoy Apollo. I get that he needs to hold back emotions because of the "demon" but at this point the character is dull, and honestly a bore to read about, the lying to Jinx and withholding information just made him seem like an edgy teenager, like come on.
I think, in another life, I would finish this series, but for now, the amount of skimming that was performed at the end of the story won't make the journey worth it to me.
To begin, I'm not sure how so many pages went by with absolutely nothing occurring in them, it was painful to read knowing that if I skipped a chapter, there would be no plot progression. Sometimes I could like the book, and then it dragged on and on. The dialogue is overwhelming in the book, and the world-building is lackluster. I enjoyed the idea, I really did, just not the execution. This book could benefit from being half as long and telling the same amount of information. To top it all off, it needs to be edited, I found some glaring grammatical errors throughout the book that diminished the experience.
Character-wise, I liked Jinx and could grow to MAYBE enjoy Apollo. I get that he needs to hold back emotions because of the "demon" but at this point the character is dull, and honestly a bore to read about, the lying to Jinx and withholding information just made him seem like an edgy teenager, like come on.
I think, in another life, I would finish this series, but for now, the amount of skimming that was performed at the end of the story won't make the journey worth it to me.
December 30, 2023
genuinely one of the best books i’ve read in a VERY long time!!!! possibly two of my favorite MCs ever. seriously i need the second book right now!
August 21, 2023
This book is very much similar to a magical mystery, a romantic fantasy and a very binge-able read! You are given an extremely strong female main character and a very misunderstood male main character. The magical system is truly unique and the world you're placed into is close to being very futuristic as well as the late 1890s time period,
The book begins with a series of info-dumping and slight character introductions, in which, could be a bit overwhelming and confusing at first. The mystery of who your main characters are and their need to be brought together/form an alliance is also a bit confusing at first.
Jinx, your master trickster, possesses magical abilities which she has hones to perfection. This leads to an emotional barrier between who she is and who she wants to be, making friendship, love and trust she chooses to stray away from.
Apollo, also under the difficulties of emotions, is known to be cold and detached. His inner dialogue and outward expressions combating constantly, making him vert misunderstood.
A fantasy book with magic, character development, enemies to lovers, secret alliances, angst, romantic tension and detailed world building makes this an extremely enjoyable read! Not to mention the EXTREME cliffhanger!
The anticipation for book number 2 is already kicking my curious mind into gear! I cannot wait to see where this story goes in the future and what is to come of our Jinx and Apollo.
The book begins with a series of info-dumping and slight character introductions, in which, could be a bit overwhelming and confusing at first. The mystery of who your main characters are and their need to be brought together/form an alliance is also a bit confusing at first.
Jinx, your master trickster, possesses magical abilities which she has hones to perfection. This leads to an emotional barrier between who she is and who she wants to be, making friendship, love and trust she chooses to stray away from.
Apollo, also under the difficulties of emotions, is known to be cold and detached. His inner dialogue and outward expressions combating constantly, making him vert misunderstood.
A fantasy book with magic, character development, enemies to lovers, secret alliances, angst, romantic tension and detailed world building makes this an extremely enjoyable read! Not to mention the EXTREME cliffhanger!
The anticipation for book number 2 is already kicking my curious mind into gear! I cannot wait to see where this story goes in the future and what is to come of our Jinx and Apollo.
February 6, 2024
I’m late writing a review, and I’ll keep it short to avoid spoilers!
Prince has such a lovely writing style. I adore the way she paints a picture for scenes effortlessly! Jinx is by far my favorite, she’s clever and intimidating. Apollo also has my heart! I love the way their relationship developed, and can’t wait to see more of them. Looking forward to book two!
Prince has such a lovely writing style. I adore the way she paints a picture for scenes effortlessly! Jinx is by far my favorite, she’s clever and intimidating. Apollo also has my heart! I love the way their relationship developed, and can’t wait to see more of them. Looking forward to book two!
December 4, 2023
A huge thank you to the author and NetGalley for providing this e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The first book in a new fantasy that had me on the edge of my seat and absolutely having to finish this book to find out what happens next. (AND me needing the sequel, ASAP).
This book reminded me of a perfect mix of:
Hannah Whitten’s - The Foxglove King
MK Lobb’s - Seven Faceless Saints
Rachel Gillig’s - One Dark Window
Kate Dramis’ - The Curse of Saints
Honestly, if you liked any (or all) of these books I would highly encourage you to check out this novel for yourself, because believe me it does NOT disappoint.
This book perfectly blends the fantasy and romance aspects of this novel, and doesn’t let the worldbuilding or plot fade into the background when the romance does happen. (I like romantasy, don’t get me wrong, but it always bothers me when books with fascinating worlds and plots get sidelined for the romance, rather than having them both work together.)
We follow Jinx, a thief, as she tries to solve a riddle that keeps her away from her family, and Apollo, an aristocrat, who is dealing with suffering from an affliction that is punished by his society. Jinx has the power to transform herself into looking like anyone, and using illusions to trick people into seeing things incorrectly - and this power allows her to be a notorious thief well-known for their exploits. However, she is forced to work alongside Apollo when she realizes she can blackmail him into helping her solve the riddle that failure to solve will sever her from her family forever. Doing this, they both learn secrets about the other and learn how to work together, while also learning that they may have more in common than they initially thought. As they work together to solve both of their problems, they begin uncovering a higher corruption in their society and need to solve it - before it destroys them both.
The worldbuilding and magic in this novel was fascinating, as we learn that those who were afflicted with a plague 20 years ago were transformed into people who have magic powers and may be not quite human anymore. This affliction, called being Cursed, makes them the bottom of society where merely existing can be a death sentence - unless they can prevent themselves from being found out. There is also a religious aspect in this novel, where as we learn more and more of it, we can see some of the cracks in the pieces that are missing - and that, when it is discovered - is a huge game changer for how they understand their world. (This highly reminded me of the religion in Seven Faceless Saints.)
The characters in this novel are very lifelike, and it isn’t hard to sympathize with both Jinx and Apollo as they navigate their lives and try to solve their problems. However, as the story progresses you start to see that what both of them assumed were their biggest issues are only scratching the surface of what is really going on - and this book ends on a killer cliffhanger that I cannot wait to see how the next book continues.
I would highly recommend this novel if you like romantasy along with plot, political intrigue, and a religion that may or may not have a secret hidden in plain sight. I wasn’t expecting to love this book as much as it did, but once it started it grabbed me to the last page and I couldn’t stop reading until it was finished.
The first book in a new fantasy that had me on the edge of my seat and absolutely having to finish this book to find out what happens next. (AND me needing the sequel, ASAP).
This book reminded me of a perfect mix of:
Hannah Whitten’s - The Foxglove King
MK Lobb’s - Seven Faceless Saints
Rachel Gillig’s - One Dark Window
Kate Dramis’ - The Curse of Saints
Honestly, if you liked any (or all) of these books I would highly encourage you to check out this novel for yourself, because believe me it does NOT disappoint.
This book perfectly blends the fantasy and romance aspects of this novel, and doesn’t let the worldbuilding or plot fade into the background when the romance does happen. (I like romantasy, don’t get me wrong, but it always bothers me when books with fascinating worlds and plots get sidelined for the romance, rather than having them both work together.)
We follow Jinx, a thief, as she tries to solve a riddle that keeps her away from her family, and Apollo, an aristocrat, who is dealing with suffering from an affliction that is punished by his society. Jinx has the power to transform herself into looking like anyone, and using illusions to trick people into seeing things incorrectly - and this power allows her to be a notorious thief well-known for their exploits. However, she is forced to work alongside Apollo when she realizes she can blackmail him into helping her solve the riddle that failure to solve will sever her from her family forever. Doing this, they both learn secrets about the other and learn how to work together, while also learning that they may have more in common than they initially thought. As they work together to solve both of their problems, they begin uncovering a higher corruption in their society and need to solve it - before it destroys them both.
The worldbuilding and magic in this novel was fascinating, as we learn that those who were afflicted with a plague 20 years ago were transformed into people who have magic powers and may be not quite human anymore. This affliction, called being Cursed, makes them the bottom of society where merely existing can be a death sentence - unless they can prevent themselves from being found out. There is also a religious aspect in this novel, where as we learn more and more of it, we can see some of the cracks in the pieces that are missing - and that, when it is discovered - is a huge game changer for how they understand their world. (This highly reminded me of the religion in Seven Faceless Saints.)
The characters in this novel are very lifelike, and it isn’t hard to sympathize with both Jinx and Apollo as they navigate their lives and try to solve their problems. However, as the story progresses you start to see that what both of them assumed were their biggest issues are only scratching the surface of what is really going on - and this book ends on a killer cliffhanger that I cannot wait to see how the next book continues.
I would highly recommend this novel if you like romantasy along with plot, political intrigue, and a religion that may or may not have a secret hidden in plain sight. I wasn’t expecting to love this book as much as it did, but once it started it grabbed me to the last page and I couldn’t stop reading until it was finished.
September 20, 2023
I requested to recieve an early copy of this book due to the amazing blurb and story set-up. As much as I wanted to love it, I feel it was a little let down by the dialogue and plot seeming "rushed". There were moments where I would think "wow okay, I think I could really enjoy this" and then some piece of dialogue of info-dumping would set off the pace for me and read as somewhat jarring.
I admire this authors ability to easily shift into the tone and style of different characters and I loved the multiple POV's we got! The story itself was pretty unique, which I enjoyed, but sadly I did not finish reading. As much as I would love to have been able to, the written style didn't come together for me and that made it hard to get through. I think in terms of diaglogue, it would be helpful to use more conjunctives (I realise this is meant to be set in a regency style era however, the lack of use of conjunctives left the dialogue feeling really stuntedand took away from the actual content.)
I do want to end my review by saying that the world the author has imagined in The Ghost and the Fallen has clearly been well-thought-out and lots of time and energy have gone into it's creation - which I deeply admire. I believe that my issues with reading were more related to my personal reading preferences and I would encourage anyone who enjoys enthralling worlds. an array of sassy characters and mysterious plot points - to give this book a go.
I admire this authors ability to easily shift into the tone and style of different characters and I loved the multiple POV's we got! The story itself was pretty unique, which I enjoyed, but sadly I did not finish reading. As much as I would love to have been able to, the written style didn't come together for me and that made it hard to get through. I think in terms of diaglogue, it would be helpful to use more conjunctives (I realise this is meant to be set in a regency style era however, the lack of use of conjunctives left the dialogue feeling really stuntedand took away from the actual content.)
I do want to end my review by saying that the world the author has imagined in The Ghost and the Fallen has clearly been well-thought-out and lots of time and energy have gone into it's creation - which I deeply admire. I believe that my issues with reading were more related to my personal reading preferences and I would encourage anyone who enjoys enthralling worlds. an array of sassy characters and mysterious plot points - to give this book a go.
September 26, 2023
*ARC Reader*
I received this ebook in exchange for my honest opinion.
This book is unquestionably worth reading! I enjoyed the plot, the vibe, the characters, I don't think I've read any similar fantasy book!
This is an exhilarating fantasy tale set during the Victorian era, concluding with a thrilling cliffhanger that will leave you on the edge of your seat. If you have a passion for enchantment, intrigue, a dash of romance, and a touch of excitement, then this book is a must-read. I particularly relished the witty exchanges between the central characters and found their dynamic thoroughly engaging.
An immensely enjoyable read, this fantasy book boasts magic, character growth, enemies to lovers trope, clandestine alliances, emotional turmoil, captivating romantic anticipation, and intricately crafted world-building.
I gave this book 3 stars because there were moments that seemed to drag a bit, and at the beginning the story felt a bit rushed. Also the writing style is not one of my favorites here.
Overall, I enjoyed this read and I would recommend this book to any fantasy book lover! I think I will give book two a chance as well because of the cliffhanger.
October 3, 2023
First I want to thank Lana & NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC for an honest review.
Wow! Just wow. I loved reading this debut novel of Lana J Prince. It kept me wanting to read more and more. It had me on the edge of my seat needing to find out the mystery behind Jinx’s and Apollos powers. The background story for each of the main characters and the story itself was so well written! I loved how all of the details that you find out in the beginning come together perfectly around 75-80% of the book. And the ending !! *chefs kiss*
If you love a magical mystery with a lot of tension mixed in between, this is for you.
She set the ending up so well for the second book and I honestly can’t wait for it to come out!
Also, If you like these tropes, this book is for you!
- Enemies to lovers
- Slow burn
- One bed
- Dark secret
Wow! Just wow. I loved reading this debut novel of Lana J Prince. It kept me wanting to read more and more. It had me on the edge of my seat needing to find out the mystery behind Jinx’s and Apollos powers. The background story for each of the main characters and the story itself was so well written! I loved how all of the details that you find out in the beginning come together perfectly around 75-80% of the book. And the ending !! *chefs kiss*
If you love a magical mystery with a lot of tension mixed in between, this is for you.
She set the ending up so well for the second book and I honestly can’t wait for it to come out!
Also, If you like these tropes, this book is for you!
- Enemies to lovers
- Slow burn
- One bed
- Dark secret
October 19, 2023
A story of a roundabout game with a demon, The Ghost and The Fallen will have you swooning for the romance, turning the pages for the adventure, and second guessing until the very end.
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Full review to come!
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Full review to come!
November 23, 2023
4.25 stars
that feeling when you discover an unknown book and end up falling for it big time? is surely the best. rating purely based on enjoyment because i love this book and can't stop thinking about it ever since.
that feeling when you discover an unknown book and end up falling for it big time? is surely the best. rating purely based on enjoyment because i love this book and can't stop thinking about it ever since.
August 28, 2023
Not only am I upset that I have to wait for this book to be published but that I have to wait even longer for the next book. Time is running out for Jinx as she tries to solve the mystery that will give her back her life and the only one she can trust is a cold grumpy Duke to be. Their dynamic is unique from enemies to maybe friends to maybe lovers, as you read you feel the push and the pull between them as they slowly learn to trust one another to survive. For both of them, time is running out, Jinx has to solve the riddle to get her life back and Apollo has to save himself. The need to finish this book was unreal as I kept wanting to know the next piece of the puzzle, always trying to figure it out, but a new twist was always there to keep me guessing.
November 7, 2023
"And when I kiss you, you'll understand what living means"
After a plague ravaged the city of Somnium, there's been a clear divide between the cursed, who developed the ability to use magic, and those who didn't. Jinx is an illusionist trickster, able to wear the face of anyone she desires, a ghost hidden within society, but a wanted one. Having spent her days separated from her family, after striking a deal with a dangerous and terrifying creature in the woods, Jinx, now 20, only has a year to break the desperate deal she made, solve the riddle and finally return home. Apollo Voclaine indulges in the highest aristocracy, the heir to one of the seven most powerful family lines in all of Somnium, life couldn't be better from the outside, but Apollo harbours a deep and treacherous secret, one that could very well lead to the downfall of himself and his family. Apollo has magic thriving below the surface, and a demon embedded in his soul, determined to get his life back, and rid his body of this horrifying and dangerous creature, Apollo is desperate. So when he comes face to face with the revered and notorious trickster Jinx, they strike a deal that neither one can refuse.
Jinx is morally grey and an absolute baddie, she spends her life in the shadows, or hidden behind the faces of others. Revered and feard in equal measure, Jinx is powerful and boy does she know it, using her cunning, intelligence and pugnacious attitude to take on any foe stupid enough to take her on. Sassy, witty and full of grit and determination, Jinx will have you absolutely giddy with her antics, and make you feel so seen and empowered in a world that still looks down on women. Underneath all her bravado though is a young girl, who longs to be reunited with her mother and uncle, and just wants to protect innocents and those neglected, oppressed and hunted by the society they're thrust into. Desperate and determined to finally break this deal, and with only one year left to do it in, she accepts a deal with a different kind of devil, an aristocratic, cold and grumpy young man.
Apollo Voclaine is dreamy, in a stoic, grumpy and aloof kind of way. He gives off definite bad boy vibes but has a heart of gold hidden under it all, he wants to make a difference to the society they live in, protect innocents and allow others to take control and narrative of their own lives (especially women). With a demon goading his every move, and feeding off every intense emotion he has, and the illustrious Jinx stealing the one thing to stave off the monsters incessant and dark motives, Apollo is desperate to rid himself of the magic that lingers within his veins, and protect his family, no matter the cost.
The interactions between Apollo and Jinx were so seamless and brimming with razor sharp wit, and humorous banter. It's gripping, and beautiful watching their relationship growth, and seeing them become vulnerable around each other, finding kindred spirits as two lonely souls, who should be enemies, but whom are thrust together whilst fighting two separate but personal battles, and yet seeing each other so transparently, it was wholesome and heart-warming.
I was immediately pulled into this world, the writing is so beautiful and atmospheric, it seamlessly transports you. The characters were so vibrant and realistic, and their personalities oozed through the pages. The Voclaine siblings are some of my all-time favourite side characters, they each have such vivid and powerful personalities, and I loved seeing their interactions between each other, and Jinx. Thatcher and Jinx's friendship absolutely blew me away, the way Thatcher just consistently hypes Jinx up despite her reputation, and Jinx encouraging him in all of his endeavours, science based or otherwise, it was truly so beautiful to witness.
The world-building was so immersive, and gorgeously crafted, the lore is astounding and refreshing, and the story itself is just overflowing with characters who feel so raw, and realistic, both in their interactions and personalities, they'll burrow deep into your heart and not let go. Get ready for a story that is brimming with magic, mystery, and intrigue with scorching tension, and giddying banter. I'm gasping for the next book because that ending?!?! I'm shook.
After a plague ravaged the city of Somnium, there's been a clear divide between the cursed, who developed the ability to use magic, and those who didn't. Jinx is an illusionist trickster, able to wear the face of anyone she desires, a ghost hidden within society, but a wanted one. Having spent her days separated from her family, after striking a deal with a dangerous and terrifying creature in the woods, Jinx, now 20, only has a year to break the desperate deal she made, solve the riddle and finally return home. Apollo Voclaine indulges in the highest aristocracy, the heir to one of the seven most powerful family lines in all of Somnium, life couldn't be better from the outside, but Apollo harbours a deep and treacherous secret, one that could very well lead to the downfall of himself and his family. Apollo has magic thriving below the surface, and a demon embedded in his soul, determined to get his life back, and rid his body of this horrifying and dangerous creature, Apollo is desperate. So when he comes face to face with the revered and notorious trickster Jinx, they strike a deal that neither one can refuse.
Jinx is morally grey and an absolute baddie, she spends her life in the shadows, or hidden behind the faces of others. Revered and feard in equal measure, Jinx is powerful and boy does she know it, using her cunning, intelligence and pugnacious attitude to take on any foe stupid enough to take her on. Sassy, witty and full of grit and determination, Jinx will have you absolutely giddy with her antics, and make you feel so seen and empowered in a world that still looks down on women. Underneath all her bravado though is a young girl, who longs to be reunited with her mother and uncle, and just wants to protect innocents and those neglected, oppressed and hunted by the society they're thrust into. Desperate and determined to finally break this deal, and with only one year left to do it in, she accepts a deal with a different kind of devil, an aristocratic, cold and grumpy young man.
Apollo Voclaine is dreamy, in a stoic, grumpy and aloof kind of way. He gives off definite bad boy vibes but has a heart of gold hidden under it all, he wants to make a difference to the society they live in, protect innocents and allow others to take control and narrative of their own lives (especially women). With a demon goading his every move, and feeding off every intense emotion he has, and the illustrious Jinx stealing the one thing to stave off the monsters incessant and dark motives, Apollo is desperate to rid himself of the magic that lingers within his veins, and protect his family, no matter the cost.
The interactions between Apollo and Jinx were so seamless and brimming with razor sharp wit, and humorous banter. It's gripping, and beautiful watching their relationship growth, and seeing them become vulnerable around each other, finding kindred spirits as two lonely souls, who should be enemies, but whom are thrust together whilst fighting two separate but personal battles, and yet seeing each other so transparently, it was wholesome and heart-warming.
I was immediately pulled into this world, the writing is so beautiful and atmospheric, it seamlessly transports you. The characters were so vibrant and realistic, and their personalities oozed through the pages. The Voclaine siblings are some of my all-time favourite side characters, they each have such vivid and powerful personalities, and I loved seeing their interactions between each other, and Jinx. Thatcher and Jinx's friendship absolutely blew me away, the way Thatcher just consistently hypes Jinx up despite her reputation, and Jinx encouraging him in all of his endeavours, science based or otherwise, it was truly so beautiful to witness.
The world-building was so immersive, and gorgeously crafted, the lore is astounding and refreshing, and the story itself is just overflowing with characters who feel so raw, and realistic, both in their interactions and personalities, they'll burrow deep into your heart and not let go. Get ready for a story that is brimming with magic, mystery, and intrigue with scorching tension, and giddying banter. I'm gasping for the next book because that ending?!?! I'm shook.
October 1, 2023
I requested a copy of the e-arc because I found the blurb rather fascinating. Did it live up to it? Hmm, kind of middling.
I actually liked the first half of the book. There was an interesting start to the plotline: Jinx the FMC is cursed with an affliction that is expiring on her next birthday when its effects would render itself permanently on her being. She is trying to reverse the curse based on a riddle by the demon who cursed her. She seeks the help of Apollo Voclaine, a young nobleman who is also secretly cursed and is trying to find his own ways to be rid of it. They form an alliance to seek out a particular Vessel that would supposedly help them in ending Apollo's woes, and in turn, allow Jinx to access a particular location to help her in solving her puzzle.
Initially, I felt the main characters, despite being rather clichéd, were tolerable. Jinx is a female assassin and face-changer who is described as being beautiful, tough and deadly. Apollo meanwhile, is devastatingly handsome, a part of society's upper echelons and is what I would consider putting up a 'bad boy' act. While I am all for reading about tough female characters, there was a sense that Jinx was a little too perfect: she's undeniably deadly, tries to be helpful to her own people while silently (and sometimes not) holding rage against society who has ostracized Cursed folk, gets away easily with assassination, killing, escapes, etc and from all this, does not give me much reason to be in tune with her or to empathize her case. Likewise with Apollo, he holds a large secret within him and pushes all forms of emotion away, even with supposedly close family and friends. While there is a reason behind it, it really puts a stopper on trying to understand him as a character. That being said, their personalities do show in this sense and continues throughout them slowly getting to know each other and beyond.
As I progressed with the book, I couldn't help but think that the story was dragging longer than necessary. The main plot and lore of the story, while having been established early on, was quickly forgotten as Jinx and Apollo go about with a whole bunch of other side quests that I feel may not have been at all essential to the overarching plot. Yes, some of the quests did lend to the story progression, but could it have been compressed to be less complex and roundabout? I think so. There were also what I felt were meaningless story fillers that did not at all contribute to the story, which in turn made it longer than it should have been.
The worldbuilding wasn’t that great or expansive. The setting of the story is still somewhat foggy for me. The magic system was also a little underwhelming. As it is such a crucial part to Jinx and Apollo's character, especially for Jinx, it did not feel well fleshed out even though you do get the gist of what it does. There is also the fact that while Cursed beings/magic users are being pushed into the underground, you get little sense of why that is so except that society hates the Cursed. Aside from Jinx and Apollo, you do not see any other form of magic being used in the whole of the story, which creates a blank as to trying to understand why it is that the rest of society does not find the Cursed tolerable.
I noted a number of grammatical errors, overuse of certain words, unstructured sentences/paragraphs and some other oddities. This is personal preference, but I am peeved by the usage of slightly more modern tongue when the setting is clearly not a modern universe.
I think the book could use with some more refinement before being published. I typically enjoy a bit of a complex story, but the plot felt a little lost in this one with how much is packed into it, making it feel more complicated than it should be.
I actually liked the first half of the book. There was an interesting start to the plotline: Jinx the FMC is cursed with an affliction that is expiring on her next birthday when its effects would render itself permanently on her being. She is trying to reverse the curse based on a riddle by the demon who cursed her. She seeks the help of Apollo Voclaine, a young nobleman who is also secretly cursed and is trying to find his own ways to be rid of it. They form an alliance to seek out a particular Vessel that would supposedly help them in ending Apollo's woes, and in turn, allow Jinx to access a particular location to help her in solving her puzzle.
Initially, I felt the main characters, despite being rather clichéd, were tolerable. Jinx is a female assassin and face-changer who is described as being beautiful, tough and deadly. Apollo meanwhile, is devastatingly handsome, a part of society's upper echelons and is what I would consider putting up a 'bad boy' act. While I am all for reading about tough female characters, there was a sense that Jinx was a little too perfect: she's undeniably deadly, tries to be helpful to her own people while silently (and sometimes not) holding rage against society who has ostracized Cursed folk, gets away easily with assassination, killing, escapes, etc and from all this, does not give me much reason to be in tune with her or to empathize her case. Likewise with Apollo, he holds a large secret within him and pushes all forms of emotion away, even with supposedly close family and friends. While there is a reason behind it, it really puts a stopper on trying to understand him as a character. That being said, their personalities do show in this sense and continues throughout them slowly getting to know each other and beyond.
As I progressed with the book, I couldn't help but think that the story was dragging longer than necessary. The main plot and lore of the story, while having been established early on, was quickly forgotten as Jinx and Apollo go about with a whole bunch of other side quests that I feel may not have been at all essential to the overarching plot. Yes, some of the quests did lend to the story progression, but could it have been compressed to be less complex and roundabout? I think so. There were also what I felt were meaningless story fillers that did not at all contribute to the story, which in turn made it longer than it should have been.
The worldbuilding wasn’t that great or expansive. The setting of the story is still somewhat foggy for me. The magic system was also a little underwhelming. As it is such a crucial part to Jinx and Apollo's character, especially for Jinx, it did not feel well fleshed out even though you do get the gist of what it does. There is also the fact that while Cursed beings/magic users are being pushed into the underground, you get little sense of why that is so except that society hates the Cursed. Aside from Jinx and Apollo, you do not see any other form of magic being used in the whole of the story, which creates a blank as to trying to understand why it is that the rest of society does not find the Cursed tolerable.
I noted a number of grammatical errors, overuse of certain words, unstructured sentences/paragraphs and some other oddities. This is personal preference, but I am peeved by the usage of slightly more modern tongue when the setting is clearly not a modern universe.
I think the book could use with some more refinement before being published. I typically enjoy a bit of a complex story, but the plot felt a little lost in this one with how much is packed into it, making it feel more complicated than it should be.
November 16, 2023
📚BOOK REVIEW📚
The Ghost and the Fallen by Lana J. Prince
(Book 1 in the Somnium City series)
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️/3
Genres: romantic fantasy
Tropes: reluctant allies, strangers to friends to lovers, mutual pinning, not everything is what it seems, cursed beings, forbidden powers, slow burn, chaos
20 years prior, a plague spread across the region and made humans develop powers. These humans are known as the Cursed, and they are hunted down and killed by non-cursed humans.
Jinx is a Cursed (with strong illusion powers), but she didn’t get her powers from the plague. She made a deal with a creature in the woods to raise her family out of poverty, but the requirement was that she could no longer see them (and now she is Cursed). If she can solve the creature’s riddle before she turns 21, she can return to her family.
Apollo, the heir to a powerful family, has a secret. He is also Cursed. He has been distancing himself from his friends and family to protect them, but is consequently very unhappy in life. That is, until fate brings him and Jinx together.
They both have things they want from each other, so they make a deal. They quickly realize that the things they both want are actually intertwined.
Through the course of the story, more details are revealed regarding how both of them got Cursed, as well as the history of the plague that started it all.
This story is a dual POV between Jinx and Apollo.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I think the overall plot concept of this one was really unique, and definitely very interesting. The last 25% of the book was super fast paced, with a lot going on; it ended up being very hard to put down. I enjoyed the dynamic between Jinx and Apollo; always fun to have two characters who trust no one who have to now learn how to trust each other with their deepest darkest secrets. The witty/sarcastic banter between the two of them was super fun as well.
However, the first 75% of the book was fairly slow. I’m not even sure what was making it drag on, but I found it very hard to stay interested/captivated while reading the first 75%. The world-building and background also didn’t really kick in until the 75% mark either, which feels kind of late. A lot of the things that were confusing and unclear in the beginning do make sense by the end, but that’s a long time to be left hanging. There are also a couple small plot things and character actions that feel inaccurate/unrealistic.
Overall, this was a solid start to a series. I enjoyed the last bit of the book enough to want to keep reading the series. If you like fantasy with a “it goes all the way to the top” type of feel, definitely check this one out.
Thank you to BOMM Tours and the author for a copy of this to read ✨
The Ghost and the Fallen by Lana J. Prince
(Book 1 in the Somnium City series)
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️/3
Genres: romantic fantasy
Tropes: reluctant allies, strangers to friends to lovers, mutual pinning, not everything is what it seems, cursed beings, forbidden powers, slow burn, chaos
20 years prior, a plague spread across the region and made humans develop powers. These humans are known as the Cursed, and they are hunted down and killed by non-cursed humans.
Jinx is a Cursed (with strong illusion powers), but she didn’t get her powers from the plague. She made a deal with a creature in the woods to raise her family out of poverty, but the requirement was that she could no longer see them (and now she is Cursed). If she can solve the creature’s riddle before she turns 21, she can return to her family.
Apollo, the heir to a powerful family, has a secret. He is also Cursed. He has been distancing himself from his friends and family to protect them, but is consequently very unhappy in life. That is, until fate brings him and Jinx together.
They both have things they want from each other, so they make a deal. They quickly realize that the things they both want are actually intertwined.
Through the course of the story, more details are revealed regarding how both of them got Cursed, as well as the history of the plague that started it all.
This story is a dual POV between Jinx and Apollo.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I think the overall plot concept of this one was really unique, and definitely very interesting. The last 25% of the book was super fast paced, with a lot going on; it ended up being very hard to put down. I enjoyed the dynamic between Jinx and Apollo; always fun to have two characters who trust no one who have to now learn how to trust each other with their deepest darkest secrets. The witty/sarcastic banter between the two of them was super fun as well.
However, the first 75% of the book was fairly slow. I’m not even sure what was making it drag on, but I found it very hard to stay interested/captivated while reading the first 75%. The world-building and background also didn’t really kick in until the 75% mark either, which feels kind of late. A lot of the things that were confusing and unclear in the beginning do make sense by the end, but that’s a long time to be left hanging. There are also a couple small plot things and character actions that feel inaccurate/unrealistic.
Overall, this was a solid start to a series. I enjoyed the last bit of the book enough to want to keep reading the series. If you like fantasy with a “it goes all the way to the top” type of feel, definitely check this one out.
Thank you to BOMM Tours and the author for a copy of this to read ✨
September 2, 2023
˗ˏˋ4.5 ★ ˎˊ˗
The book is a binge-worthy read that transports you into a world before technology was rampant, but where a unique magic is very much alive!
I was completely enamored by the illusions of Jinx and captivated by the emotionless heir, Apollo. The story follows these contrasting characters as they forge a temporary alliance in pursuit of their personal goals. However, as they navigate their partnership, they uncover that each other's personalities might not be what they initially thought.
The world-building was seamlessly blended into the narrative, making it easy to follow without becoming tedious. The unique magic system, along with the gods, was intriguing and added depth to the story. All the characters were well-written, easy to love, and easy to relate to. I appreciated that both Jinx and Apollo underwent significant character development. Their growth in terms of personality, attitude, and their evolving dynamic as partners (or more) stood out to me. There were also side characters introduced who remained shrouded in mystery, making me even more excited and anticipatory for the second book.
Thank you Netgalley and Lana for the digital arc in exchange for an honest review. Everything in this review has been written willing fully.
Since I read a proof copy of the book any grammatical errors did not impact the rating.
─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───
Instagram @maggies.nook
tiktok @maggies_pov
─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───
My Rating and Spice Scale:
5⭐ The book is perfect! I love everything about it
4.5⭐ I love the book and would highly recommend it. There might still be something small that I want from the book
4⭐It was entertaining. Not perfect but it hooked me big time. I would recommend it to anyone
3.5⭐ I liked the book but I have issues with some things. I would recommend it to those who enjoys the specific genre, writing style or author
3⭐ A not so bad book. I neither disliked or liked the book. It just didn't connect with me. I would recommend with reservations
2⭐ I had a hard time finishing the book. It's not for me and wouldn't recommend it
1⭐ I don't like it at all and would not recommend
─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───
🌶️ Fade to black/Closed door/Implied
🌶️🌶️ Open door with minimal descriptions
🌶️🌶️🌶️ Open door with significant descriptions and details. Light kinks
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ Open door with explicit descriptions. There are more scenes and are longer. Plot is still there.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ Extremely explicit description. All possible kinks are present. There is more spice than plot.
The book is a binge-worthy read that transports you into a world before technology was rampant, but where a unique magic is very much alive!
I was completely enamored by the illusions of Jinx and captivated by the emotionless heir, Apollo. The story follows these contrasting characters as they forge a temporary alliance in pursuit of their personal goals. However, as they navigate their partnership, they uncover that each other's personalities might not be what they initially thought.
The world-building was seamlessly blended into the narrative, making it easy to follow without becoming tedious. The unique magic system, along with the gods, was intriguing and added depth to the story. All the characters were well-written, easy to love, and easy to relate to. I appreciated that both Jinx and Apollo underwent significant character development. Their growth in terms of personality, attitude, and their evolving dynamic as partners (or more) stood out to me. There were also side characters introduced who remained shrouded in mystery, making me even more excited and anticipatory for the second book.
Thank you Netgalley and Lana for the digital arc in exchange for an honest review. Everything in this review has been written willing fully.
Since I read a proof copy of the book any grammatical errors did not impact the rating.
─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───
Instagram @maggies.nook
tiktok @maggies_pov
─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───
My Rating and Spice Scale:
5⭐ The book is perfect! I love everything about it
4.5⭐ I love the book and would highly recommend it. There might still be something small that I want from the book
4⭐It was entertaining. Not perfect but it hooked me big time. I would recommend it to anyone
3.5⭐ I liked the book but I have issues with some things. I would recommend it to those who enjoys the specific genre, writing style or author
3⭐ A not so bad book. I neither disliked or liked the book. It just didn't connect with me. I would recommend with reservations
2⭐ I had a hard time finishing the book. It's not for me and wouldn't recommend it
1⭐ I don't like it at all and would not recommend
─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───
🌶️ Fade to black/Closed door/Implied
🌶️🌶️ Open door with minimal descriptions
🌶️🌶️🌶️ Open door with significant descriptions and details. Light kinks
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ Open door with explicit descriptions. There are more scenes and are longer. Plot is still there.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ Extremely explicit description. All possible kinks are present. There is more spice than plot.
October 24, 2023
I really enjoyed reading “The Ghost and the Fallen.” It tells us the story of Jinx, a young woman with the ability to cast supernatural illusions to change the perception of the around her. Jinx is a criminal, exiled from her home by a deal she struck with an unnamed demon, and forced to protect herself and the supernatural parias called “Cursed.” Despite being placated by her life on the run, Jinx longs to return home just once more to see her family, but she must solve a riddle given to her by the demon in order to do so. She has all but given up hope when she meets Apollo, a wealthy lord who just might have the answer she’s looking for.
This story includes:
- magical curses
- dual POV
- unwilling allies to maybe more
- supernatural abilities
- concealed identities
- one bed trope
- meddling gods
This book is engaging from start to finish. I found Jinx’s character exciting from page one. Her character is clever and cool and likable…Like cmon, as an assassin of sorts she would wear people’s faces as she killed them, that’s so metal. I also really enjoyed Apollo and his painful brooding. I wish we would have gotten his entire story from the woods, so I will definitely be tuning back in for book 2 to figure out what happened there.
There were a chunk of pages ~130 to ~160 with some editing errors, but beyond that I don’t have any complaints about the book. The magic system is a bit ungrounded, but I feel like the twists at the end kind of explained that and I have a feeling book 2 will really dive deep into how the supernatural abilities work. There were also a few moments where I questioned if I were reading the first book: like when Vandar and Rylee were mentioned. But I don’t think there’s a prequel or anything. (EDIT: I looked it up and there are two prequel novellas that I will be reading asap.)
Either way, it was a great book with unique characters and a fantastic plot. I’m definitely a fan.
I received this ebook as an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher.
This story includes:
- magical curses
- dual POV
- unwilling allies to maybe more
- supernatural abilities
- concealed identities
- one bed trope
- meddling gods
This book is engaging from start to finish. I found Jinx’s character exciting from page one. Her character is clever and cool and likable…Like cmon, as an assassin of sorts she would wear people’s faces as she killed them, that’s so metal. I also really enjoyed Apollo and his painful brooding. I wish we would have gotten his entire story from the woods, so I will definitely be tuning back in for book 2 to figure out what happened there.
There were a chunk of pages ~130 to ~160 with some editing errors, but beyond that I don’t have any complaints about the book. The magic system is a bit ungrounded, but I feel like the twists at the end kind of explained that and I have a feeling book 2 will really dive deep into how the supernatural abilities work. There were also a few moments where I questioned if I were reading the first book: like when Vandar and Rylee were mentioned. But I don’t think there’s a prequel or anything. (EDIT: I looked it up and there are two prequel novellas that I will be reading asap.)
Either way, it was a great book with unique characters and a fantastic plot. I’m definitely a fan.
I received this ebook as an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher.
November 9, 2023
4.25 Stars
I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this book. It is Lana J Prince's first book, born from short stories she wrote.
The Ghost and the Fallen is the story of Jinx, an illusionist who has spent the majority of her life away from her family as a result of a bargain she struck. She moves through the world masquerading as other people, using both their faces and their lives. Jinx is A Cursed, a magic user in a world where the Cursed are feared and despised. She has until the age of 21 solve a riddle and be reunited with her family. If she cannot solve the riddle, she can never return and they will forget of her existence. Apollo Voclaine lives an aristocratic life. He is a Son of the Seven and his family's heir. Apollo has a secret: he has magic in his bones and a demon in his soul. When Apollo and Jinx meet, they strike a bargain to help them both.
Both of the MCs had their lives forever changed at an early age. Who they are when they meet makes for clever interactions between two intelligent and hyperaware people. I found the magic system in this world interesting and believable. Every so often, I wanted the pacing of story and revelations to be a bit different, but overall this was alright. There was some repetition of information I could have done without.
I read this story in big chunks because I kept needing to know what happened next. I had some predictions of where I thought the tale would go; some were correct and others were not as I was surprised by the author. I liked the Voclaine siblings and think Prince did a good job of developing distinct characters. There were multiple story pieces introduced in this book related to the siblings that I look forward to continuing on with in the next book. I really appreciated that the FMC was the expert and experienced one and the MMC was the one who was new to using magic and needed training.
I received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
TW: murder, violence
I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this book. It is Lana J Prince's first book, born from short stories she wrote.
The Ghost and the Fallen is the story of Jinx, an illusionist who has spent the majority of her life away from her family as a result of a bargain she struck. She moves through the world masquerading as other people, using both their faces and their lives. Jinx is A Cursed, a magic user in a world where the Cursed are feared and despised. She has until the age of 21 solve a riddle and be reunited with her family. If she cannot solve the riddle, she can never return and they will forget of her existence. Apollo Voclaine lives an aristocratic life. He is a Son of the Seven and his family's heir. Apollo has a secret: he has magic in his bones and a demon in his soul. When Apollo and Jinx meet, they strike a bargain to help them both.
Both of the MCs had their lives forever changed at an early age. Who they are when they meet makes for clever interactions between two intelligent and hyperaware people. I found the magic system in this world interesting and believable. Every so often, I wanted the pacing of story and revelations to be a bit different, but overall this was alright. There was some repetition of information I could have done without.
I read this story in big chunks because I kept needing to know what happened next. I had some predictions of where I thought the tale would go; some were correct and others were not as I was surprised by the author. I liked the Voclaine siblings and think Prince did a good job of developing distinct characters. There were multiple story pieces introduced in this book related to the siblings that I look forward to continuing on with in the next book. I really appreciated that the FMC was the expert and experienced one and the MMC was the one who was new to using magic and needed training.
I received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
TW: murder, violence
October 1, 2023
"The Ghost and the Fallen" is a na fantasy romance written by Lana J. Prince, the first installment of a currently ongoing series.
It is a book that left me with conflicted feelings! On paper it had all the makings of winning me over, and in part it did! I was captivated by the enchanting world building inspired by the Victorian era, the intricate magic system, the plot full of action, subterfuge, deception and mysteries, and the complex, tormented and interesting characters. The problem that spoiled everything a bit? The writing!
I admit that on the one hand I enjoyed the prose. On a purely aesthetic and visual level (places, clothing, physical appearance of the characters, etc...) it convinced me. I found the descriptions vivid, evocative, and enchanting. I loved the way certain settings were depicted, so much so that I ended up in a swoon. The problem is everything else! The pace seemed slow and heavy to me, made worse by the presence of rather long chapters. The narration gets lost between empty and chaotic situations, unable to find the right middle ground. Sentences are often unnecessarily convoluted, with numerous repetitions that made reading extremely difficult for me. I felt a general sense of dragging, at times truly exasperating. Not to mention the coldness of the text! The writing seemed cold, detached, and dry of emotion. I felt no passion and this prevented me from getting attached to the story and the characters. And I'm really sorry about that! Because, as mentioned above, I loved the general idea of the various elements, sensing their charm and potential. But in detail the book conveyed nothing to me, except boredom and frustration.
All in all, this is a book with fantastic premises and great potential, which unfortunately did not convince me because of the writing!
Thank you to NetGalley and Lana J. Prince for giving me an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
It is a book that left me with conflicted feelings! On paper it had all the makings of winning me over, and in part it did! I was captivated by the enchanting world building inspired by the Victorian era, the intricate magic system, the plot full of action, subterfuge, deception and mysteries, and the complex, tormented and interesting characters. The problem that spoiled everything a bit? The writing!
I admit that on the one hand I enjoyed the prose. On a purely aesthetic and visual level (places, clothing, physical appearance of the characters, etc...) it convinced me. I found the descriptions vivid, evocative, and enchanting. I loved the way certain settings were depicted, so much so that I ended up in a swoon. The problem is everything else! The pace seemed slow and heavy to me, made worse by the presence of rather long chapters. The narration gets lost between empty and chaotic situations, unable to find the right middle ground. Sentences are often unnecessarily convoluted, with numerous repetitions that made reading extremely difficult for me. I felt a general sense of dragging, at times truly exasperating. Not to mention the coldness of the text! The writing seemed cold, detached, and dry of emotion. I felt no passion and this prevented me from getting attached to the story and the characters. And I'm really sorry about that! Because, as mentioned above, I loved the general idea of the various elements, sensing their charm and potential. But in detail the book conveyed nothing to me, except boredom and frustration.
All in all, this is a book with fantastic premises and great potential, which unfortunately did not convince me because of the writing!
Thank you to NetGalley and Lana J. Prince for giving me an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 9, 2023
💚🌿𝗕𝗢𝗢𝗞•𝗥𝗘𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗪🌿💚
🌿𝚃𝙷𝙴 𝙶𝙷𝙾𝚂𝚃 𝙰𝙽𝙳 𝚃𝙷𝙴 𝙵𝙰𝙻𝙻𝙴𝙽 𝙱𝚈 𝙻𝙰𝙽𝙰 𝙹. 𝙿𝚁𝙸𝙽𝙲𝙴
🌿𝙱𝙾𝙾𝙺 𝟷 𝙸𝙽 𝚃𝙷𝙴 𝚂𝙾𝙼𝙽𝙸𝚄𝙼 𝙲𝙸𝚃𝚈 𝚂𝙴𝚁𝙸𝙴𝚂
🌿𝙶𝙴𝙽𝚁𝙴: 𝙵𝙰𝙽𝚃𝙰𝚂𝚈
🌿𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️//𝟱
꧁★☾★꧂❀꧁★☾★꧂
Thank you so much to @lanajprince and @bookofmatchesmedia for my gifted eARC of 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗚𝗛𝗢𝗦𝗧 𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗙𝗔𝗟𝗟𝗘𝗡!
I really enjoyed this read and this book caught me completely by surprise! It has so many amazing fantasy aspects and I loved every single one of them. This book follows the story of Jinx and Apollo, as they meet and team up to search for answers to their own personal endeavors.
Jinx is such an awesome FMC! Her power of illusions is SO cool to me and she was such a fierce character! I loved her character growth so much. Apollo went through such character development, too, and I really enjoyed watching their dynamic and relationship grow and change throughout the story. They were relatable and likable and I found myself incredibly invested in their stories. Their slow burn romance was beautifully written and I loved the pining and tension between them! I loved how they each opened up to the other, when they weren’t really used to doing that with others. Their personalities meshed so well and I feel like they were exactly what the other needed to grow.
The magic system and world building were so unique and I loved how balanced the plot and world building were. It never felt overwhelming to me. You get some parts where there are info dumps but that is necessary sometimes, especially in the first books in a new fantasy series. Prince did an excellent job of explaining everything in a really easily digestible way and I LOVED the Victorian vibes we were getting!
Overall, I definitely recommend this one for all lovers of fantasy and romance! It was a really excellent read and will leave you needing Book 2 ASAP after that cliffhanger ending!
🌿💚𝗧𝗥𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗦🌿💚
✨Reluctant Allies
✨Strangers to Friends to Lovers
✨Mutual Pinning
✨Not Everything is What it Seems
✨Badass FMC
✨Slow Burn
꧁★☾★꧂❀꧁★☾★꧂
🌿𝚃𝙷𝙴 𝙶𝙷𝙾𝚂𝚃 𝙰𝙽𝙳 𝚃𝙷𝙴 𝙵𝙰𝙻𝙻𝙴𝙽 𝙱𝚈 𝙻𝙰𝙽𝙰 𝙹. 𝙿𝚁𝙸𝙽𝙲𝙴
🌿𝙱𝙾𝙾𝙺 𝟷 𝙸𝙽 𝚃𝙷𝙴 𝚂𝙾𝙼𝙽𝙸𝚄𝙼 𝙲𝙸𝚃𝚈 𝚂𝙴𝚁𝙸𝙴𝚂
🌿𝙶𝙴𝙽𝚁𝙴: 𝙵𝙰𝙽𝚃𝙰𝚂𝚈
🌿𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️//𝟱
꧁★☾★꧂❀꧁★☾★꧂
Thank you so much to @lanajprince and @bookofmatchesmedia for my gifted eARC of 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗚𝗛𝗢𝗦𝗧 𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗙𝗔𝗟𝗟𝗘𝗡!
I really enjoyed this read and this book caught me completely by surprise! It has so many amazing fantasy aspects and I loved every single one of them. This book follows the story of Jinx and Apollo, as they meet and team up to search for answers to their own personal endeavors.
Jinx is such an awesome FMC! Her power of illusions is SO cool to me and she was such a fierce character! I loved her character growth so much. Apollo went through such character development, too, and I really enjoyed watching their dynamic and relationship grow and change throughout the story. They were relatable and likable and I found myself incredibly invested in their stories. Their slow burn romance was beautifully written and I loved the pining and tension between them! I loved how they each opened up to the other, when they weren’t really used to doing that with others. Their personalities meshed so well and I feel like they were exactly what the other needed to grow.
The magic system and world building were so unique and I loved how balanced the plot and world building were. It never felt overwhelming to me. You get some parts where there are info dumps but that is necessary sometimes, especially in the first books in a new fantasy series. Prince did an excellent job of explaining everything in a really easily digestible way and I LOVED the Victorian vibes we were getting!
Overall, I definitely recommend this one for all lovers of fantasy and romance! It was a really excellent read and will leave you needing Book 2 ASAP after that cliffhanger ending!
🌿💚𝗧𝗥𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗦🌿💚
✨Reluctant Allies
✨Strangers to Friends to Lovers
✨Mutual Pinning
✨Not Everything is What it Seems
✨Badass FMC
✨Slow Burn
꧁★☾★꧂❀꧁★☾★꧂
November 9, 2023
Set in a regency era, this story follows Jinx and Apollo. Jinx, an illusionist trickster, has spent many years away from her family. She struck a deal with a mystery being in the woods that caused her to not be able to be near her family. She is now a Cursed, a magic wielder, and lives by the faces of others. On her 20th birthday, she is visited by the creature in her dreams. It reminds her of their terms. She has one year left to break the deal, solve the riddle and she can return to her family. Apollo Voclaine, as the heir to his family, has an important role in society. However, he is cool, detached, and living with a secret. When he has a run in with Jinx, they realize they are looking for similar answers. To get her help, Apollo offers Jinx a deal she can’t refuse.
This book had amazing world building and an interesting plot. From the beginning, it drew in my attention and left me needing more. Jinx was a strong FMC and I enjoyed reading about her. She was clever, determined, and could easily hold her own. Also, the fact that her magic ability was to wear others faces was awesome. And brooding Apollo. The fact that he is so trapped on expressing his feelings and alienated himself from his family to protect them, broke my heart. I enjoyed reading about him accepting who he is, much to Jinx's help.
“You’re a fool for believing you have no value. You are more significant than you realize, Temptress.”
I loved the relationship between Jinx and Apollo. It felt natural and progressed nicely throughout the book. They started off as two people striving for answers to the same questions but over time, became friends. The tension between them was perfect and you could feel the attraction through the pages!
Overall, I was very impressed with this book and will be looking forward to the next one, especially after that cliffhanger! Thank you NetGalley and Lana J. Prince for the ARC opportunity!
This book had amazing world building and an interesting plot. From the beginning, it drew in my attention and left me needing more. Jinx was a strong FMC and I enjoyed reading about her. She was clever, determined, and could easily hold her own. Also, the fact that her magic ability was to wear others faces was awesome. And brooding Apollo. The fact that he is so trapped on expressing his feelings and alienated himself from his family to protect them, broke my heart. I enjoyed reading about him accepting who he is, much to Jinx's help.
“You’re a fool for believing you have no value. You are more significant than you realize, Temptress.”
I loved the relationship between Jinx and Apollo. It felt natural and progressed nicely throughout the book. They started off as two people striving for answers to the same questions but over time, became friends. The tension between them was perfect and you could feel the attraction through the pages!
Overall, I was very impressed with this book and will be looking forward to the next one, especially after that cliffhanger! Thank you NetGalley and Lana J. Prince for the ARC opportunity!
September 28, 2023
“The Ghost and the Fallen” by Lana J. Prince
In Somnium a plague twenty years ago caused the inflicted to become the “Cursed”. The Cursed are people with magical abilities that are easy to pick out with their silver ringed eyes. The Cursed are forced into a life of secrecy and evasion, as they are relentlessly hunted.
Jinx has an illusionist ability that she can change her appearance at any moment which helps in her profession of theft. She did not become cursed because of the plague though; she made a willing deal with a demon to ensure her family to be financially taken care of. The loophole to the deal is she must solve a riddle before her impending twenty-first birthday, an ominous deadline that looms ever closer.
Apollo Voclaine, Son of the Seven- the seven aristocratic families that rule Somnium. He hides the fact that he is cursed with the help of a magical ring. When the ring gets stolen by Jinx is sets a new deal in the works. Jinx will help Apollo if he helps her in return. Joining forces, they set out to find a lost artifact. Will Jinx and Apollo end up falling in love with each other in the process?
The last 40 pages of the book was EVERYTHING!!!!!!! I absolutely loved this book so much. I really liked the characters and their trauma and how it brings them closer and keeps them apart throughout the entire book. It is a slow burn type of romance for most of it but I’m really hoping for them the entire time. I liked the world building and magic system and dystopian quality to the story. And like I said the ending was so good that I’m going to have trouble waiting for book two. Perfect 5 out of 5 stars.
In Somnium a plague twenty years ago caused the inflicted to become the “Cursed”. The Cursed are people with magical abilities that are easy to pick out with their silver ringed eyes. The Cursed are forced into a life of secrecy and evasion, as they are relentlessly hunted.
Jinx has an illusionist ability that she can change her appearance at any moment which helps in her profession of theft. She did not become cursed because of the plague though; she made a willing deal with a demon to ensure her family to be financially taken care of. The loophole to the deal is she must solve a riddle before her impending twenty-first birthday, an ominous deadline that looms ever closer.
Apollo Voclaine, Son of the Seven- the seven aristocratic families that rule Somnium. He hides the fact that he is cursed with the help of a magical ring. When the ring gets stolen by Jinx is sets a new deal in the works. Jinx will help Apollo if he helps her in return. Joining forces, they set out to find a lost artifact. Will Jinx and Apollo end up falling in love with each other in the process?
The last 40 pages of the book was EVERYTHING!!!!!!! I absolutely loved this book so much. I really liked the characters and their trauma and how it brings them closer and keeps them apart throughout the entire book. It is a slow burn type of romance for most of it but I’m really hoping for them the entire time. I liked the world building and magic system and dystopian quality to the story. And like I said the ending was so good that I’m going to have trouble waiting for book two. Perfect 5 out of 5 stars.
November 9, 2023
𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗚𝗛𝗢𝗦𝗧 𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗙𝗔𝗟𝗟𝗘𝗡 by Lana J. Prince
Thank you so much to @lanajprince and @bookofmatchesmedia for my gifted print copy. Make sure you grab a copy, link in my Bio.
»༒»❀🍁❀«༒«
{𝐌𝐘 𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒}
𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗚𝗛𝗢𝗦𝗧 𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗙𝗔𝗟𝗟𝗘𝗡 by Lana J. Prince is a engaging fantasy romance. Set in an alternative regency era, told in dual POV’s that follows Jinx, a trickster who struck a deal with a creature of legends. Jinx would do anything to alleviate her family circumstances. So she bargains herself with a notorious creature of the woods. In doing so she has suffered from her alienation from her family, surviving the only way she knows how. Now that she is twenty years old the clock is ticking and she only has one year to solve the riddle presented to her and ultimately end her curse.
Apollo Voclaine, an aloof son of a Duke is suffering from his own secret simmering under the surface. An heir to one of the seven most powerful family lines in all of Somnium. So when Apollo crosses paths with the fierce and snarky Jinx, who hides behind the face of others, they form an unlikely alliance.
Lana J. Prince writing draws readers into the lives of her characters, making this book a fast read and one that I completely inhaled. Wonderful character growth as the story unfolds. Rich world building along with a slow burning romance that will satisfy any reader. I especially enjoyed how the author sets the stage giving me enough information in an ambiguous way, to lay the groundwork for the storyline.
A captivating book that sucks you in and keeps you hungry for more until you reach the mind-blowing cliffhanger ending.
{𝐇𝐀𝐒𝐇𝐓𝐀𝐆𝐒} #TheGhostAndTheFallenBOMMARCTour #BookOfMatchesMedia
Thank you so much to @lanajprince and @bookofmatchesmedia for my gifted print copy. Make sure you grab a copy, link in my Bio.
»༒»❀🍁❀«༒«
{𝐌𝐘 𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒}
𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗚𝗛𝗢𝗦𝗧 𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗙𝗔𝗟𝗟𝗘𝗡 by Lana J. Prince is a engaging fantasy romance. Set in an alternative regency era, told in dual POV’s that follows Jinx, a trickster who struck a deal with a creature of legends. Jinx would do anything to alleviate her family circumstances. So she bargains herself with a notorious creature of the woods. In doing so she has suffered from her alienation from her family, surviving the only way she knows how. Now that she is twenty years old the clock is ticking and she only has one year to solve the riddle presented to her and ultimately end her curse.
Apollo Voclaine, an aloof son of a Duke is suffering from his own secret simmering under the surface. An heir to one of the seven most powerful family lines in all of Somnium. So when Apollo crosses paths with the fierce and snarky Jinx, who hides behind the face of others, they form an unlikely alliance.
Lana J. Prince writing draws readers into the lives of her characters, making this book a fast read and one that I completely inhaled. Wonderful character growth as the story unfolds. Rich world building along with a slow burning romance that will satisfy any reader. I especially enjoyed how the author sets the stage giving me enough information in an ambiguous way, to lay the groundwork for the storyline.
A captivating book that sucks you in and keeps you hungry for more until you reach the mind-blowing cliffhanger ending.
{𝐇𝐀𝐒𝐇𝐓𝐀𝐆𝐒} #TheGhostAndTheFallenBOMMARCTour #BookOfMatchesMedia
September 5, 2023
What a refreshing read! The Ghost and the Fallen is a story of a young girl who made an unfortunate deal at the tender age of 8 with a demon in the woodlands to save her family from poverty. This deal brought her family good fortune but at a stiff cost. Jinx had to lose her family for good unless she could solve a riddle. She spent many years living as a ghost, stealing from the rich and giving to others who were cursed such as herself, but not of their own doing while she searched for the answer to the riddle. Until she meets Apollo. Their paths cross and they begin an adventure together to help find out more about a cursed box that is tethered to the two of them in a way that they do not understand nor comprehend. While working together to try and find the missing artifact they find themselves becoming more entangled with each other and realizing that maybe, they don't always need the tough exteriors that they have become accustomed to. Through their time together, they come across information that will help them both succeed in their paths but also leads them to a darker truth that may end up destroying more than just themselves. It's a beautiful story about 2 lost souls trying to find their way through the darkness. It seems they may have found a way in each other, but things aren't always as they seem....
August 19, 2023
Years ago, when she was but a child, Jinx made a heartbreaking deal that benefitted her family but kept her away from them on pain of death. She has months left until she turns 21 to solve the riddle and break the deal or else she will be forever kept away from her loved ones. Apollo, the hard drinking young noble every woman in the land lusts after, has a secret of his own, an evil that is threatening to take him over for good.
Of course, they need each other in order to help themselves.
The world building is on the light side, to be sure, with Jinx "zooming out" to see the bigger picture and other modern world concepts and phrases, but both Jinx and Apollo are more than what most people get to see. They start off as enemies, with Jinx stealing something very important from Apollo, and then they become wary allies. Their relationship grows believably and soon theirs is a friendship with something more brewing.
With everything on the line, the book ends in a cliffhanger that has me waiting for the next book in the series to find out what happens to these two. Ms. Prince has created two well rounded characters who have so much to lose, the only one who can understand them is the other.
Of course, they need each other in order to help themselves.
The world building is on the light side, to be sure, with Jinx "zooming out" to see the bigger picture and other modern world concepts and phrases, but both Jinx and Apollo are more than what most people get to see. They start off as enemies, with Jinx stealing something very important from Apollo, and then they become wary allies. Their relationship grows believably and soon theirs is a friendship with something more brewing.
With everything on the line, the book ends in a cliffhanger that has me waiting for the next book in the series to find out what happens to these two. Ms. Prince has created two well rounded characters who have so much to lose, the only one who can understand them is the other.
October 1, 2023
This book had me ignoring my family and housework so I could binge read and solve this mystery. Apollo and Jinx are end game ❤️ I was surprised how quickly I fell in love with both characters despite their flaws and secrets. There was such a subtle shift in Apollo's feelings and actions toward Jinx that made it all feel natural and genuine. The magic in this world was unique and different from other fantasy books and I found myself more invested in the story because of it. Another shining star in this book is the dynamic of the Voclaine family. I loved all the siblings and their nuances and quirks. The chatacters felt so real and I appreciated the intelligent debates and character development we witness.
The story hints at bigger things coming and gives direction to future plot lines. I can't wait for the next book and to see where this cliffhanger left us! Overall, a great bingable book with unique magical aspects, slow burn relationship, and who-dun-it mystery! ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
✅ Impossible choice between love and family
✅ Love the sibling dynamic
✅ Fight between the gods that affects mortals
✅ Bargains and debts
➖ Polish up some grammatical errors
➖ Lost momentum at some points, slowing the story down
➖ I got confused at some spots when Jinx would shift and it wasn't explicit that she shifted back so I wasn't sure what face she was wearing
The story hints at bigger things coming and gives direction to future plot lines. I can't wait for the next book and to see where this cliffhanger left us! Overall, a great bingable book with unique magical aspects, slow burn relationship, and who-dun-it mystery! ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
✅ Impossible choice between love and family
✅ Love the sibling dynamic
✅ Fight between the gods that affects mortals
✅ Bargains and debts
➖ Polish up some grammatical errors
➖ Lost momentum at some points, slowing the story down
➖ I got confused at some spots when Jinx would shift and it wasn't explicit that she shifted back so I wasn't sure what face she was wearing
August 19, 2023
The story of Jinx officially continues! If you've read the short stories before reaching this book, which you totally should (The Disappearance of Elijah Benjamin and The Death of Sophia Acadaine), you would've followed her at 16 and then again at 18. Now at the age of 20, she's visited by the same creature that found her all those years ago. One year to solve the riddle and break the curse, the curse that has left her isolated from not only her family but the world.
The difference between the short stories and this book: she's not doing it alone. Enter Apollo Voclaine, Son of the Seven and heir to his family. He's cool, calm, and collected, and also mysterious to society as everyone has seen the shift within him - carefree to reserved.
They partner up for the benefit of their own, in search of answers. I don't think anyone understands how excited I am for November. I am obsessed with Apollo, Jinx, and the Voclaine's and this story is so well rounded and it's just the beginning!
The difference between the short stories and this book: she's not doing it alone. Enter Apollo Voclaine, Son of the Seven and heir to his family. He's cool, calm, and collected, and also mysterious to society as everyone has seen the shift within him - carefree to reserved.
They partner up for the benefit of their own, in search of answers. I don't think anyone understands how excited I am for November. I am obsessed with Apollo, Jinx, and the Voclaine's and this story is so well rounded and it's just the beginning!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews