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The Dark Reflection #3
Her Cruel Redemption
“When you’ve known love to slip through gentle hands, you’ll grip it with teeth and claws.”
Now a queen in hiding, Rhiandra has taken refuge in the Yawn with Gwinellyn, tolerated but never truly welcomed by the princess’s new friends. Driven by a thirst for vengeance against the man who betrayed her, Rhiandra struggles to master a dangerous power that no one wants her to wield. But she must learn control, for Draven is hunting her.
When word of war between Brimordia and Oceatold reaches them, Gwinellyn can no longer stand idly by as her people suffer. Determined to reclaim her birthright, she needs Rhiandra’s help to retake the throne. But as they journey through a battle-scarred land, both women are haunted by secrets—Gwinellyn wonders if she can trust her stepmother, while Rhiandra hides truths that could shatter their fragile alliance. Many of those secrets centre on her tumultuous relationship with the man now calling himself king.
If they want to win this fight, blood and lives will not be the only price.
The epic finale of The Dark Reflection series tests the boundaries of love, power, and destiny. When lovers turn enemies and vengeance becomes obsession, the lines begin to blur between justice and tyranny. Loyalties will be tested and kingdoms will tremble as Rhiandra treads the path of redemption—but whose? And what will it cost them all?
Now a queen in hiding, Rhiandra has taken refuge in the Yawn with Gwinellyn, tolerated but never truly welcomed by the princess’s new friends. Driven by a thirst for vengeance against the man who betrayed her, Rhiandra struggles to master a dangerous power that no one wants her to wield. But she must learn control, for Draven is hunting her.
When word of war between Brimordia and Oceatold reaches them, Gwinellyn can no longer stand idly by as her people suffer. Determined to reclaim her birthright, she needs Rhiandra’s help to retake the throne. But as they journey through a battle-scarred land, both women are haunted by secrets—Gwinellyn wonders if she can trust her stepmother, while Rhiandra hides truths that could shatter their fragile alliance. Many of those secrets centre on her tumultuous relationship with the man now calling himself king.
If they want to win this fight, blood and lives will not be the only price.
The epic finale of The Dark Reflection series tests the boundaries of love, power, and destiny. When lovers turn enemies and vengeance becomes obsession, the lines begin to blur between justice and tyranny. Loyalties will be tested and kingdoms will tremble as Rhiandra treads the path of redemption—but whose? And what will it cost them all?
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
March 2, 2025
Thank you, Hailey Jade, for the free book!
I have been obsessed with this series since book one, and Her Cruel Redemption was everything I hoped for—and more. I haven’t stopped thinking about Rhiandra and Draven’s story, wondering how on earth it could possibly end, and this conclusion did not disappoint. It was brutal, breathtaking, and ended in the only way that felt right, making it all the more satisfying.
This dark take on Snow White is one of my favorite retellings ever. The tension, the betrayals, the sheer intensity of every relationship—it’s all woven together so masterfully. Rhiandra’s journey is raw and haunting, and I loved the way the themes of vengeance, redemption, and power played out.
If you love dark fantasy, morally complex characters, and a romance that will break you before it heals you, The Dark Reflection series is an absolute must-read. Highly, highly recommend!
I have been obsessed with this series since book one, and Her Cruel Redemption was everything I hoped for—and more. I haven’t stopped thinking about Rhiandra and Draven’s story, wondering how on earth it could possibly end, and this conclusion did not disappoint. It was brutal, breathtaking, and ended in the only way that felt right, making it all the more satisfying.
This dark take on Snow White is one of my favorite retellings ever. The tension, the betrayals, the sheer intensity of every relationship—it’s all woven together so masterfully. Rhiandra’s journey is raw and haunting, and I loved the way the themes of vengeance, redemption, and power played out.
If you love dark fantasy, morally complex characters, and a romance that will break you before it heals you, The Dark Reflection series is an absolute must-read. Highly, highly recommend!
March 1, 2025
Oh. My. Lore. How is this possible? How did this series end in such a way that actually makes sense and still fit it's dark, twisty romance roots?
If you really want to know, you'll have to read it. It's a very slow paced finale, and spicy scene enthusiasts might have to hold their horses until past 50%, but wooey, if you've loved that fantasy politics, war and rebellion storyline spawned from something a bit Snow White-like, there is so much to get your teeth into.
... And wait long enough and your steam needs will be met. Just saying.
We catch up with Draven after the shocking events ending book 2 (#spoiler #notspoiler), follow Rhiandra off into the unknown where, let's face it, she's not going to get a friendly reception, and see meek little princess Gwinellyn decide she's done with being pushed around. All three have hard journeys ahead, though conflict and self discovery and what might be the most charged no contact dark romance of their lives.
First of all: The character arcs are so good. I had no idea how they'd be believeable considering the way we left them all but color me impressed. Rhiandra and Gwin both come under a lot of pressure to be honest with themselves about who they really are and what they really want. I loved their closeness, though that might not be the best word. They care for and want the best for each other, despite their (many) relationship issues. Spikey characters are capable of kindness, even if it's in a tough love sort of way. How Gwin learns from Rhiandra is so much more than your usual book frenemies. Draven needed a shock to wake him up, and despite everything that's come before, he too has to confront himself as much as he does the renegade ladies he's hunting.
Oh, and the chemistry. It's there. It burns. It is ever present, even if our two dark and dangerous MCs aren't together. And when they are... You know how it's going to go. Dark romance can be such a fine line to walk, and I think we get a balance between two damaged characters who feel equal in levels of power despite their obvious (and magical) differences.
Love the plot, love the development, love the Lady-Gaga-Bad-Romance, and the ending is one to leave a nice bit of closure. Zero regrets at re-reading the whole trilogy back to back.
TL:DR; If you're here only for steam, you may come away without quite as much of it as you were after. But if you're here for a war-ravaged political/magical fantasy that just happens to have sizzling chemistry alongside an unexpectedly emotional journey of self discovery, jump in.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
If you really want to know, you'll have to read it. It's a very slow paced finale, and spicy scene enthusiasts might have to hold their horses until past 50%, but wooey, if you've loved that fantasy politics, war and rebellion storyline spawned from something a bit Snow White-like, there is so much to get your teeth into.
... And wait long enough and your steam needs will be met. Just saying.
We catch up with Draven after the shocking events ending book 2 (#spoiler #notspoiler), follow Rhiandra off into the unknown where, let's face it, she's not going to get a friendly reception, and see meek little princess Gwinellyn decide she's done with being pushed around. All three have hard journeys ahead, though conflict and self discovery and what might be the most charged no contact dark romance of their lives.
First of all: The character arcs are so good. I had no idea how they'd be believeable considering the way we left them all but color me impressed. Rhiandra and Gwin both come under a lot of pressure to be honest with themselves about who they really are and what they really want. I loved their closeness, though that might not be the best word. They care for and want the best for each other, despite their (many) relationship issues. Spikey characters are capable of kindness, even if it's in a tough love sort of way. How Gwin learns from Rhiandra is so much more than your usual book frenemies. Draven needed a shock to wake him up, and despite everything that's come before, he too has to confront himself as much as he does the renegade ladies he's hunting.
Oh, and the chemistry. It's there. It burns. It is ever present, even if our two dark and dangerous MCs aren't together. And when they are... You know how it's going to go. Dark romance can be such a fine line to walk, and I think we get a balance between two damaged characters who feel equal in levels of power despite their obvious (and magical) differences.
Love the plot, love the development, love the Lady-Gaga-Bad-Romance, and the ending is one to leave a nice bit of closure. Zero regrets at re-reading the whole trilogy back to back.
TL:DR; If you're here only for steam, you may come away without quite as much of it as you were after. But if you're here for a war-ravaged political/magical fantasy that just happens to have sizzling chemistry alongside an unexpectedly emotional journey of self discovery, jump in.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 7, 2025
4.5/5 ⭐️
There was a point in the middle of this in which I wondered how on earth the author was going to wrap everything up but ohhh my god that ending killed any doubts I had. What a beautiful end to a series. Loved it and loved the growth of the characters we saw.
I’m just so happy
There was a point in the middle of this in which I wondered how on earth the author was going to wrap everything up but ohhh my god that ending killed any doubts I had. What a beautiful end to a series. Loved it and loved the growth of the characters we saw.
I’m just so happy
February 18, 2025
Amazing conclusion to a fantastic series. (I'm hoping there'll be a spin off with Lester and Leela 🤞). I could not put this book down I needed to know the fates of these two morally grey characters, and they got the ending they deserved.
It started a bit slow but when there was a gear change, OMG I'm surprised my kindle didn't go up in flames from the sparks flying between Draven and Rhiandra.
There was magic, there was battles, this book was action packed and at the centre of it all were the two schemers who have captured my heart. I haven't felt this attachment to characters since Cersei and Jaime Lannister, that's how epic they are!!!
So if you like phenomenally written enemies to lovers with 🌶🌶🌶 READ THIS SERIES 😍
It started a bit slow but when there was a gear change, OMG I'm surprised my kindle didn't go up in flames from the sparks flying between Draven and Rhiandra.
There was magic, there was battles, this book was action packed and at the centre of it all were the two schemers who have captured my heart. I haven't felt this attachment to characters since Cersei and Jaime Lannister, that's how epic they are!!!
So if you like phenomenally written enemies to lovers with 🌶🌶🌶 READ THIS SERIES 😍
February 27, 2025
"I suppose if you've known love to slip from gentle hands, you'll grip it with teeth and claws. But just remember that you'll likely destroy what you're trying to hold onto."
This series is a fantasy romance Snow White retelling and follows our Snow White princess and her stepmother as they both go through their individual and joined journeys of finding love and obtaining their kingdom.
I had a great time with all 3 of these books! This one in particular had many POVs to keep us informed as well as on our toes waiting for what happens next. I really enjoyed the banter and the relationships especially the ones between Draven & Rhi and Gwin & Rhi. It showed that the family you find and choose is truly the only one that matters.
I loved the ending and think it wrapped up so well after the adventure we went on!
⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️
This series is a fantasy romance Snow White retelling and follows our Snow White princess and her stepmother as they both go through their individual and joined journeys of finding love and obtaining their kingdom.
I had a great time with all 3 of these books! This one in particular had many POVs to keep us informed as well as on our toes waiting for what happens next. I really enjoyed the banter and the relationships especially the ones between Draven & Rhi and Gwin & Rhi. It showed that the family you find and choose is truly the only one that matters.
I loved the ending and think it wrapped up so well after the adventure we went on!
⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️
February 25, 2025
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
3.75⭐️
I wanted to love it! 😭
Don't get me wrong, I still enjoyed it and I actually really liked the ending! I think it was perfect, more sweet than bitter but still realistic.
All in all though, HCR did not do, what book 2 has done. I think I just personally prefer vailed court politics to open war and there was not enough of our power couple in this one. Steamy scenes were as always tastefull but having in mind what Rhi and Draven had to deal with emotionally, they seemed a little bit out of place to me. The angst was laying elsewhere.
It is a good, solid conclusion to the story which also gives other characters time to shine. I'm glad I read it and I loved to see what happened to our anti hero and anti heroine.
3.75⭐️
I wanted to love it! 😭
Don't get me wrong, I still enjoyed it and I actually really liked the ending! I think it was perfect, more sweet than bitter but still realistic.
All in all though, HCR did not do, what book 2 has done. I think I just personally prefer vailed court politics to open war and there was not enough of our power couple in this one. Steamy scenes were as always tastefull but having in mind what Rhi and Draven had to deal with emotionally, they seemed a little bit out of place to me. The angst was laying elsewhere.
It is a good, solid conclusion to the story which also gives other characters time to shine. I'm glad I read it and I loved to see what happened to our anti hero and anti heroine.
February 24, 2025
ARC Review
5 ⭐️
Omg Omg Omg!!!
I’m screaming, I’m crying, and I just don’t want it to end! I haven’t been this invested in a book series in a long time where I’m still enjoying it 3 books in!
I love this series so much. The enemies to lovers. the spice, the magic, just everything 💜
Go pick up a copy and read it now!
5 ⭐️
Omg Omg Omg!!!
I’m screaming, I’m crying, and I just don’t want it to end! I haven’t been this invested in a book series in a long time where I’m still enjoying it 3 books in!
I love this series so much. The enemies to lovers. the spice, the magic, just everything 💜
Go pick up a copy and read it now!
September 20, 2025
A great ending to a hidden-gem trilogy. So glad I got book one on a "stuff your kindle day" or I likely never would have found it.
Rhi and Draven go through so much to work through their PTSD and it shows a side that often isn't seen - the mistrust, the fear to get close to others, the relationship issues. Gwin's story is also great. Love seeing her continue to grow and become confident.
********************spoilers***********************************
My only complaints about the book:
1. I did not like the epilogue. I felt it wasn't needed, a bit rushed/spoon-fed, and didn't fit with the style of the rest of the book. Kind of annoyed I bothered to read it.
2. The book felt a bit too long. There were a few slow parts throughout that could have been cut or condensed. Some of Rhi's continued denial about Draven scenes maybe. It was very established, so having so many scenes of it felt like filler at times.
I will say I was a tad surprised the whole wyvern thing never came up again. It felt like Gwin was going to use this in battle or something the way it popped up in book 2. Gwin completely staying out of the battles, while realistic, also felt like she was less of a main character in book 3. I would have liked to see more of her relationship with Elias near the end, just so we got a hint of where it was going, but it's ok it wasn't there. The epilogue would have been better from Gwin's point of view or Leela's, with some kind of letter from Rhi with an update.
I enjoyed seeing more of Draven's point of view in this book. I liked what happened with him and Leela, it was very fitting. Leela was a fav side character of mine. I thinks he and Lester would be a cute side couple. Haha.
Otherwise, I liked it all. The battle was well-written. The journey to learn to use lightning was good, and I like that she never fully mastered it. It felt more realistic that way. I loved that she got to be the one to kill Draven's abuser. It felt like justice, and it showed Draven that she really did care. I loved the non-epilogue ending. The way the rescue was staged, the hesitation and how she and Draven kind of realized at the same time that she had planned to go with him all along, even if she'd been a bit in denial. Their happily ever after is bumpy and full of complications, but it's them.
Rhi and Draven go through so much to work through their PTSD and it shows a side that often isn't seen - the mistrust, the fear to get close to others, the relationship issues. Gwin's story is also great. Love seeing her continue to grow and become confident.
********************spoilers***********************************
My only complaints about the book:
1. I did not like the epilogue. I felt it wasn't needed, a bit rushed/spoon-fed, and didn't fit with the style of the rest of the book. Kind of annoyed I bothered to read it.
2. The book felt a bit too long. There were a few slow parts throughout that could have been cut or condensed. Some of Rhi's continued denial about Draven scenes maybe. It was very established, so having so many scenes of it felt like filler at times.
I will say I was a tad surprised the whole wyvern thing never came up again. It felt like Gwin was going to use this in battle or something the way it popped up in book 2. Gwin completely staying out of the battles, while realistic, also felt like she was less of a main character in book 3. I would have liked to see more of her relationship with Elias near the end, just so we got a hint of where it was going, but it's ok it wasn't there. The epilogue would have been better from Gwin's point of view or Leela's, with some kind of letter from Rhi with an update.
I enjoyed seeing more of Draven's point of view in this book. I liked what happened with him and Leela, it was very fitting. Leela was a fav side character of mine. I thinks he and Lester would be a cute side couple. Haha.
Otherwise, I liked it all. The battle was well-written. The journey to learn to use lightning was good, and I like that she never fully mastered it. It felt more realistic that way. I loved that she got to be the one to kill Draven's abuser. It felt like justice, and it showed Draven that she really did care. I loved the non-epilogue ending. The way the rescue was staged, the hesitation and how she and Draven kind of realized at the same time that she had planned to go with him all along, even if she'd been a bit in denial. Their happily ever after is bumpy and full of complications, but it's them.
May 31, 2025
This was a fantastic conclusion to this series. It was completely different than the first two though, and it kind of felt like a completely different story.
On one side, it was nice to see Rhiandra knocked down a peg and made to atone for some of the terrible things that she’s done, but at the same time I really hated seeing her so weak. The same can be said for Draven as well. It was hard to view him as the same character when he did a complete 180 from evil incarnate to a man willing to give up everything for love.
I did love how political heavy this book was. Considering book 2 took place in a castle and Rhiandra was a literal queen, this one felt like it had a lot more to it in regards to politics and rebellions and scheming.
There’s so much to say about character development here, for absolutely everyone. Gwin’s growth from a meek little princess, Rhiandra’s growth from tavern girl, to evil queen and back again, Draven’s growth from the history we finally get to learn about… it’s all so perfect and I love them all so much.
There’s also something to be said about the ending. I had no idea how this was going to end until it was over, and I’m happy to say that I loved it.
On one side, it was nice to see Rhiandra knocked down a peg and made to atone for some of the terrible things that she’s done, but at the same time I really hated seeing her so weak. The same can be said for Draven as well. It was hard to view him as the same character when he did a complete 180 from evil incarnate to a man willing to give up everything for love.
I did love how political heavy this book was. Considering book 2 took place in a castle and Rhiandra was a literal queen, this one felt like it had a lot more to it in regards to politics and rebellions and scheming.
There’s so much to say about character development here, for absolutely everyone. Gwin’s growth from a meek little princess, Rhiandra’s growth from tavern girl, to evil queen and back again, Draven’s growth from the history we finally get to learn about… it’s all so perfect and I love them all so much.
There’s also something to be said about the ending. I had no idea how this was going to end until it was over, and I’m happy to say that I loved it.
May 8, 2025
The tension in this book was off the charts. I've never read characters who are so magnetic before. I honestly wasn't sure how it would all pan out after the revelations of book 2 and was fairly convinced we either wouldn't get a happy ending, or the happy ending would be pulled off in a way that felt cheap and didn't honor the magnitude of what Rhi and Draven did to each other, but color me impressed because the ending was flipping perfect. I am 100% satisfied with the cost of Draven's redemption and feel like his character held true, and that Rhi's decisions felt justified. She held that man ACCOUNTABLE.
Draven sums it up perfectly in this quote-
"We were never going to get love right on the first try. People like us don't know how to do it. We've never lived it. But that doesn't mean we can't learn."
I mean, come on. Perfection in paying off the theme. I didn't expect to be left with so much hope and I am just so happy.
But I'm also gutted it's over
Draven sums it up perfectly in this quote-
"We were never going to get love right on the first try. People like us don't know how to do it. We've never lived it. But that doesn't mean we can't learn."
I mean, come on. Perfection in paying off the theme. I didn't expect to be left with so much hope and I am just so happy.
But I'm also gutted it's over
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 18, 2025
This series has been addicting from the start, and this latest installment has just upped the ante somehow. This was an amazing way to end an epic series, and I have to applaud Jade for building the tension and raising the stakes, and not letting up until the very end. While you do need to start at book one, I promise that not only is it worth it, but the books are going to fly by once you dive in. Jade takes you right back into everything where the previous installment left off, and watching the characters be forced to confront what’s in their hearts and minds, plays in heavily. Romance is also there, woven into the plot, but not heavy, and the steamy parts don’t come in until a bit later. (Not that I mind a bit of spice!) Overall, the way this all ended was just perfect. I could not imagine a more perfect ending to this dark, delightfully twisted story, with flawed characters that will steal their way into your heart before you know what’s happening.
March 1, 2025
I absolutely love this series, I love Rhi and how she adapts so to speak to every situation she finds herself in, I really love her as a character and I thought she really grew in this novel. I love Draven too, I know, I know but I can't help it.. he's so morally grey. I love Hailey Jade's writing, it's so engaging and she paints a picture with all her words. The way everything is described really makes you feel like you're there with our characters.
Having read this series from the beginning and waiting for the next to come out I feel highly satisfied with how Her Cruel Redemption played out. I feel like we got our stratifying ending. The novel gave us action and suspense and a lot of 'what is going to happen next'. I loved it, I highly recommend this series.
Having read this series from the beginning and waiting for the next to come out I feel highly satisfied with how Her Cruel Redemption played out. I feel like we got our stratifying ending. The novel gave us action and suspense and a lot of 'what is going to happen next'. I loved it, I highly recommend this series.
March 3, 2025
I loved this. I didn't want it to end. It was a little slow to start but it wasn't long before I was gripped (as soon as Rhiandra and Draven are reunited obviously).
I felt everything in this and could not see how it would resolve in a HEA which made it even more painful and gripping.
I love Rhiandra's character she is in no way likable but so strong and fierce and in some ways relatable you are rooting for her which I think is a sign of excellent writing. I'll definitely read more by Hailey Jade. I'm just sad this story is over.
I felt everything in this and could not see how it would resolve in a HEA which made it even more painful and gripping.
I love Rhiandra's character she is in no way likable but so strong and fierce and in some ways relatable you are rooting for her which I think is a sign of excellent writing. I'll definitely read more by Hailey Jade. I'm just sad this story is over.
March 29, 2025
I'm in love with Draven. I'm in love with Rhiandra. But mostly, I think I'm in love with Hailey Jade. She writes so well...I have never highlighted that many times. I'm hooked, hypnotised by her words. I've never read anything like this. It was perfect. The ending was just so beautifully made. Thank you Hailey for this ride. All the serie was 5 stars reads for me and it's the first it happened to me. I almost didn't start the first book back then and oh my, what a mistake it would have been. I'm so happy to have read this amazing story. What. A. Ride.
PS: Draven, my man...I love you <3
PS: Draven, my man...I love you <3
March 15, 2025
This amazingly matches the dedication note which I love a lot. I've loved Rhiandra - one FMC - the most. I loved some characters whom I'm unsure I should do it. The bad point - spoiler free - of reading this fantastic story and solid conclusion of these series is I didn't want it to end.
June 6, 2025
The third and final installment in this series did not disappoint.
I enjoyed the series from the start and recommend it if you enjoy dark fairytale retellings.
Thank you Booksprout for the ARC.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I enjoyed the series from the start and recommend it if you enjoy dark fairytale retellings.
Thank you Booksprout for the ARC.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 16, 2025
I have thoroughly enjoyed this the first book. It is exceptionally well, and I find myself captivated by the characters. Their storylines flow, and twists are truly remarkable.
May 11, 2025
I love, love, love this series! From the start of the 1st book, I knew this series would be one of my faves. Can definitely re-read these over and over!!
June 20, 2025
Finished this whole trilogy in three days cause it was so damn interesting but the ending left me dissatisfied and disappointed🥲 lester hands down has to be my favourite character in this in this trilogy! That man was so flippant and hilarious 😸
July 21, 2025
The happy ever after they deserve😭😭😭
I was going to pull out a gun if it wasn’t a happy ending
I was going to pull out a gun if it wasn’t a happy ending
April 24, 2025
Absolutely loved this series. The ending was perfect for me💚💚💚💚💚
April 6, 2025
This was, arguably, my most anticipated release of the year.
In my preparation of it's release, I re-read books 1&2 and found myself even more in love with the characters and story the second time around.
This book had me sobbing and blubbering and laughing more times than I can literally count... especially the sobbing.
The love story within these pages was so absolutely intense...a mix of star crossed lovers and betrayal which had me being pulled in so many different directions. It gave the entire scenario a sense of reality whilst still being heavily enmeshed in fantasy.
On top of all that, I was never entirely certain how things were going to play out because this was my first "ending" by Hailey Jade that I was in the midst of experiencing. But I can now, without a single doubt, say that I was satisfied with the conclusion. It was almost bitter sweet. I found myself glassy eyed and smiling faintly as I turned the final page.
Without spoiling anything, I'll just backtrack a little to explain that this book picked up right where book 2 had ended.
Those that enjoy the high fantasy aspects of this and other stories are treated to a vast amount of political scheming and the battles that culminate from the decisions that had been made from the very beginning.
It truly does become a dark story about betrayal, vengeance, obsession and the narrow path leading to a fragile sense of trust , friendship and love.
Other characters continued to shine through with complex and riveting personalities, some providing comedic relief whilst others gave found family elements and secondary love stories.
I loved the character development of Snow White. She was definitely one to root for as we watched her grow into herself.
But the main couple remained the most hypnotic to me. I very much appreciated the high fantasy aspects but was heavily invested in the romance element, above all else.
I cried and swooned over them numerous times. Rhiandra was an absolute force to be reckoned with. And Driven stirred up a litany of emotions in me, to say the very least. 🫠😮💨
This trilogy is now officially one of my all time favorites.
I need special editions in the worst kind of way.
I need people to read these books and fall as hopelessly in love with this story as I have.
* Snow White retelling from the Evil Queen POV
* High fantasy elements with fae and a complex magic system
* Reluctant allies to enemies to lovers
*Arranged marriage
*Morally grey characters
* Trilogy with a HEA
* Star crossed lovers
* Touch her and die
* She's MINE
QUOTES:
"Falling for you.... It was a tragedy in slow motion. I'd already made the mistakes that would doom us at the start. And I still couldn't stop myself."
"I want you to feel every moment of it and know it's me inside you. I want you to know you want this just as much as I do "
"I may never have your forgiveness.. and you don't owe it to me. But I'm going to spend every breath I have left in my body trying to find a way to earn it. And if you never give it to me, then I'll love you anyway. You can hate me until the day you die, and I'll love you anyway."
"We were never going to get love right on the first try... People like us don't know how to do it. We've never lived it. But that doesn't mean we can't learn "
In my preparation of it's release, I re-read books 1&2 and found myself even more in love with the characters and story the second time around.
This book had me sobbing and blubbering and laughing more times than I can literally count... especially the sobbing.
The love story within these pages was so absolutely intense...a mix of star crossed lovers and betrayal which had me being pulled in so many different directions. It gave the entire scenario a sense of reality whilst still being heavily enmeshed in fantasy.
On top of all that, I was never entirely certain how things were going to play out because this was my first "ending" by Hailey Jade that I was in the midst of experiencing. But I can now, without a single doubt, say that I was satisfied with the conclusion. It was almost bitter sweet. I found myself glassy eyed and smiling faintly as I turned the final page.
Without spoiling anything, I'll just backtrack a little to explain that this book picked up right where book 2 had ended.
Those that enjoy the high fantasy aspects of this and other stories are treated to a vast amount of political scheming and the battles that culminate from the decisions that had been made from the very beginning.
It truly does become a dark story about betrayal, vengeance, obsession and the narrow path leading to a fragile sense of trust , friendship and love.
Other characters continued to shine through with complex and riveting personalities, some providing comedic relief whilst others gave found family elements and secondary love stories.
I loved the character development of Snow White. She was definitely one to root for as we watched her grow into herself.
But the main couple remained the most hypnotic to me. I very much appreciated the high fantasy aspects but was heavily invested in the romance element, above all else.
I cried and swooned over them numerous times. Rhiandra was an absolute force to be reckoned with. And Driven stirred up a litany of emotions in me, to say the very least. 🫠😮💨
This trilogy is now officially one of my all time favorites.
I need special editions in the worst kind of way.
I need people to read these books and fall as hopelessly in love with this story as I have.
* Snow White retelling from the Evil Queen POV
* High fantasy elements with fae and a complex magic system
* Reluctant allies to enemies to lovers
*Arranged marriage
*Morally grey characters
* Trilogy with a HEA
* Star crossed lovers
* Touch her and die
* She's MINE
QUOTES:
"Falling for you.... It was a tragedy in slow motion. I'd already made the mistakes that would doom us at the start. And I still couldn't stop myself."
"I want you to feel every moment of it and know it's me inside you. I want you to know you want this just as much as I do "
"I may never have your forgiveness.. and you don't owe it to me. But I'm going to spend every breath I have left in my body trying to find a way to earn it. And if you never give it to me, then I'll love you anyway. You can hate me until the day you die, and I'll love you anyway."
"We were never going to get love right on the first try... People like us don't know how to do it. We've never lived it. But that doesn't mean we can't learn "
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