What do you think?
Rate this book
The Lochlann Feuds #1
Scarlet Princess
A reckless princess. An enemy kingdom. And a mistake that could cost her everything.
Rowan only wanted a bit of adventure. She never meant to start a war.
But when a vodka smuggling trip goes wrong and lands her in the hands of the people she was brought up to hate, the Lochlannian princess is forced to put her life on the line for the sake of her cousin and her kingdom. Her only ally is one of her captors, a man who is turning out to be so different from the barbarian she expected him to be.
Now she’s in over her head with ancient vendettas, blood debts, and the dangerous political games she’s never been good at playing. Even Theo’s help may not be enough to save her when the Socairans still blame her for her parents’ war… and when she’s tempting fate by falling for one of their own.
Rowan will have to find a way to smooth things over without causing more chaos, before she accidentally kicks off a conflict that could forever alter the fate of two kingdoms.
*Scarlet Princess is a steamy (but not spicy) enemies-to-lovers romance with witty banter, found family, and only one bed.
Rowan only wanted a bit of adventure. She never meant to start a war.
But when a vodka smuggling trip goes wrong and lands her in the hands of the people she was brought up to hate, the Lochlannian princess is forced to put her life on the line for the sake of her cousin and her kingdom. Her only ally is one of her captors, a man who is turning out to be so different from the barbarian she expected him to be.
Now she’s in over her head with ancient vendettas, blood debts, and the dangerous political games she’s never been good at playing. Even Theo’s help may not be enough to save her when the Socairans still blame her for her parents’ war… and when she’s tempting fate by falling for one of their own.
Rowan will have to find a way to smooth things over without causing more chaos, before she accidentally kicks off a conflict that could forever alter the fate of two kingdoms.
*Scarlet Princess is a steamy (but not spicy) enemies-to-lovers romance with witty banter, found family, and only one bed.
324 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2021
1535 people are currently reading
44275 people want to read
About the author
Robin D. Mahle
39 books1,216 followersRobin D. Mahle started out as a pen name I shared with my husband for The World Apart Series, but since then, I've absconded with it to delve into the wonderful world of fairy tale retellings and fantasy romances with my partner in crime, Elle Madison.
When I'm not writing, you can find me spending time with my seven hundred cats and drinking wine by the barrel.
When I'm not writing, you can find me spending time with my seven hundred cats and drinking wine by the barrel.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,387 reviews
November 8, 2024
˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗ 2.75 Stars ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗
So, I've seen this series going around and thought the premise sounded pretty good and decided to give it a try.
Rowan our FMC and 'Scottish Princess' and her cousin Davin are captured in a tunnel in neighboring lands that connects through a mountain to their lands while drunk on vodka.
"Death was a hefty price to pay for vodka."
They wake up hungover in a prison cell and are told they're being charged with smuggling(the vodka). Even though she is a Princess in Lochlann and her cousin is from the Royal Family, it doesn't matter, they were found in neighboring lands and they aren't exactly cordial.
Rowan is a pretty solid FMC - she's funny, sassy, brave, strong.
"Freedom isn't giving someone a small chunk of life and expecting them to be content with it."
So, they're being held by this guy who is a Duke in that land and we're lead to believe that the price for smuggling and stealing from their land is death. But wait. First they need to call this Summit which is a gathering of all the Clans in their land to vote on a judgement.
The brother of this Duke is Theo, a Lord I believe and he's the almost instant love interest. He's alright... I mean, he's blonde, and if SJM has taught me anything .. it's don't trust the first blonde guy that comes rolling up.
They set out for this Summit together, the Lords of the house and Rowan to see what price she will have to pay for smuggling.
The world building is below average in my opinion. You're really just tossed in and it's not very descriptive. Also, I may have missed it but it felt so weird that the names of these Clans were names of animals... like 'Bear', 'Elk', 'Viper' - Like why? Normally a Clan name is after their Laird, no? Like MacKenzi, Frazier, etc.
The writing gives off a very YA vibe and it is a clean romance which is fine with me but it does come across very young.
The ending is a bit of a cliffy..
╰⪼ 🗡️Insta-Lust/Love
╰⪼ 🗡️Forced Proximity
╰⪼ 🗡️One Bed
╰⪼ 🗡️Rivaling Clans
╰⪼ 🗡️Potential Love Triangle
╰⪼ 🗡️Stabby Feisty FMC
I may check out book 2, but I'm undecided.
So, I've seen this series going around and thought the premise sounded pretty good and decided to give it a try.
Rowan our FMC and 'Scottish Princess' and her cousin Davin are captured in a tunnel in neighboring lands that connects through a mountain to their lands while drunk on vodka.
"Death was a hefty price to pay for vodka."
They wake up hungover in a prison cell and are told they're being charged with smuggling(the vodka). Even though she is a Princess in Lochlann and her cousin is from the Royal Family, it doesn't matter, they were found in neighboring lands and they aren't exactly cordial.
Rowan is a pretty solid FMC - she's funny, sassy, brave, strong.
"Freedom isn't giving someone a small chunk of life and expecting them to be content with it."
So, they're being held by this guy who is a Duke in that land and we're lead to believe that the price for smuggling and stealing from their land is death. But wait. First they need to call this Summit which is a gathering of all the Clans in their land to vote on a judgement.
The brother of this Duke is Theo, a Lord I believe and he's the almost instant love interest. He's alright... I mean, he's blonde, and if SJM has taught me anything .. it's don't trust the first blonde guy that comes rolling up.
They set out for this Summit together, the Lords of the house and Rowan to see what price she will have to pay for smuggling.
The world building is below average in my opinion. You're really just tossed in and it's not very descriptive. Also, I may have missed it but it felt so weird that the names of these Clans were names of animals... like 'Bear', 'Elk', 'Viper' - Like why? Normally a Clan name is after their Laird, no? Like MacKenzi, Frazier, etc.
The writing gives off a very YA vibe and it is a clean romance which is fine with me but it does come across very young.
The ending is a bit of a cliffy..
╰⪼ 🗡️Insta-Lust/Love
╰⪼ 🗡️Forced Proximity
╰⪼ 🗡️One Bed
╰⪼ 🗡️Rivaling Clans
╰⪼ 🗡️Potential Love Triangle
╰⪼ 🗡️Stabby Feisty FMC
I may check out book 2, but I'm undecided.
August 12, 2022
⇢ Actual rating: 3.5🌟
This book got my attention from the first line
⤏ What to expect:
∘ Young Adult Fantasy
∘ Romance
∘ Sassy, kick-ass heroine
∘ Royalty
⤏ Tropes:
∘ Enemies to Lovers
∘ Only one bed
⤏ Summary
Princess Rowan is a little fire cracker who finds herself trapped in the enemy kingdom, after being captured while smuggling a couple bottles of vodka. The punishment for smuggling? Death.
With the tunnels caved in, she can't return home and can't do nothing but remain in Socairan, waiting, while her case is being put up to the Summit, members of which are going to decide her fate.
⤏ Plot/Writing
Rowan is being forced to refrain from her reckless nature, and instead act like a demure and proper Socairan lady. We are following Rowan while she learns more about the Socairan ways and what has become of this kingdom - which she quickly finds out isn't faring that well.
I liked the writing, it was easy to understand the politics and all the new restrictions put in place after the war between those two kingdoms and the way the authors described the dresses made me think of The Shadows Between Us by Tricia Levenseller.
⤏ Worldbuilding
This book has great worldbuilding, I've always found the idea of clans, instead of royalty, pretty interesting.
I also wanted to mention that I appreciate that the authors decided to put a pronunciation guide at the end and the Clan Sigils were also a nice detail.
There's also mention of fae, but the story isn't focusing on this aspect too much.
⤏ Characters
∘ Rowan
Reckless, rebellious, sassy and a great sense of humor - these characteristics make Rowan the person she is. Being forced to act the opposite isn't an easy task for her and because she always acted childish, not taking things seriously, she now realizes that people won't take her serious when it really matters.
I liked her as a character, she's strong, would do anything for the people she loves and isn't afraid to stand up for what's right, even with the risk of being punished.
∘ Lord Theodore
He was a cutie from the beginning, despite acting all cold and distant, I knew he'll break pretty quick. It's easy to see that he's infatuated with Rowan and would do anything for her.
⤏ The relationship between characters
There is so much tension between her and the other characters, that you could cut it with a knife. The Socairan's hold so much hatred toward her just for the blood running through her veins...
I liked her friendship with Mila though, so sweet and I hope to see it evolve in the next books.
⤏ Romance
Despite the fact that they're enemies, they can't ignore the attraction between them and while I like Theodore as a character, I'd lie if I said I ship him with Rowan. They have a cute relationship, but I don't see it as a long-term one. - This is, of course, only my opinion.
⤏ Conclusion
This book was a nice surprise and if you're looking for a short, fast-paced fantasy story this is worth a try.
*while digging for more info about this book, I found out there was a previous series - a fact that I would've liked to know before starting this one, but it is what it is.
This book got my attention from the first line
"Death was a hefty price to pay for vodka."
⤏ What to expect:
∘ Young Adult Fantasy
∘ Romance
∘ Sassy, kick-ass heroine
∘ Royalty
⤏ Tropes:
∘ Enemies to Lovers
∘ Only one bed
⤏ Summary
Princess Rowan is a little fire cracker who finds herself trapped in the enemy kingdom, after being captured while smuggling a couple bottles of vodka. The punishment for smuggling? Death.
With the tunnels caved in, she can't return home and can't do nothing but remain in Socairan, waiting, while her case is being put up to the Summit, members of which are going to decide her fate.
⤏ Plot/Writing
Rowan is being forced to refrain from her reckless nature, and instead act like a demure and proper Socairan lady. We are following Rowan while she learns more about the Socairan ways and what has become of this kingdom - which she quickly finds out isn't faring that well.
I liked the writing, it was easy to understand the politics and all the new restrictions put in place after the war between those two kingdoms and the way the authors described the dresses made me think of The Shadows Between Us by Tricia Levenseller.
⤏ Worldbuilding
This book has great worldbuilding, I've always found the idea of clans, instead of royalty, pretty interesting.
I also wanted to mention that I appreciate that the authors decided to put a pronunciation guide at the end and the Clan Sigils were also a nice detail.
There's also mention of fae, but the story isn't focusing on this aspect too much.
⤏ Characters
∘ Rowan
Reckless, rebellious, sassy and a great sense of humor - these characteristics make Rowan the person she is. Being forced to act the opposite isn't an easy task for her and because she always acted childish, not taking things seriously, she now realizes that people won't take her serious when it really matters.
I liked her as a character, she's strong, would do anything for the people she loves and isn't afraid to stand up for what's right, even with the risk of being punished.
∘ Lord Theodore
He was a cutie from the beginning, despite acting all cold and distant, I knew he'll break pretty quick. It's easy to see that he's infatuated with Rowan and would do anything for her.
⤏ The relationship between characters
There is so much tension between her and the other characters, that you could cut it with a knife. The Socairan's hold so much hatred toward her just for the blood running through her veins...
I liked her friendship with Mila though, so sweet and I hope to see it evolve in the next books.
⤏ Romance
Despite the fact that they're enemies, they can't ignore the attraction between them and while I like Theodore as a character, I'd lie if I said I ship him with Rowan. They have a cute relationship, but I don't see it as a long-term one. - This is, of course, only my opinion.
⤏ Conclusion
This book was a nice surprise and if you're looking for a short, fast-paced fantasy story this is worth a try.
*while digging for more info about this book, I found out there was a previous series - a fact that I would've liked to know before starting this one, but it is what it is.
February 15, 2025
Yup I ate this book up…. On to the next one
Also WTH was that ending hahaha I’m so excited to see how everything goes down
Also WTH was that ending hahaha I’m so excited to see how everything goes down
July 7, 2023
see. i started this book because tik tok said it was really good enemies to lovers but it better pull an ACOTAR moment in book two or i will have wasted my TIME. The lead MMC is fine i guess but mostly reminds me of lukewarm hot chocolate that you keep drinking because you think it’s hot but then remember it’s been sitting beside you too long.
October 24, 2023
“The kind of love you go to war for. And that’s exactly what I intended to do.”
♥
♚ I'm not really a YA girl anymore, but this is 100% my BEST YA READ OF THE YEAR.
♚ I've seen this series circling around social media, and I fell into the trap.
(I'm a sucker for an insta reel okay, sue me!!!)
♚ This book had everything I want in a read, the only thing missing for me would be a bit more... maturity??? (translation--->MORE SPICE) lol I AM WHO I AM 🤭😩
Fade to black/closed door reads literally make me want to SOB, but I still gobbled down this entire series. There was angst, and secret pining, and hfdjkhssh THE TENSIONNNN!!! It became *obsessive* for me even, I needed to know how this was going to settle.
***ALSO MMC USES THE SWEETEST PETNAME*** (yes yes I'm a sucker for this as well)
♚ Rowan, our FMC is 1st & foremost, hilarious lol. 2nd she is the Daughter of the Warrior Queen (bada$$ confirmed) & 3rd absolutely RECKLESS.
♚ I genuinely *devoured* all 4 books, and the 20+ bonus chapters 🤭🙃
(YES I REC THIS VERSION &&& OOOOH DON'T GET ME STARTED ON THE AUDIOBOOK)
I've seen quite a few reviews comparing this to ACOTAR, and I would do so loosely, there is just a thin FAE magic common theme. This is more of a naïve young princess attempting to find her own place within harsh & misogynistic lands .... well when I put it like that???🤔😅 lmfao. I guess same same but still so diff!!!
♚ With bonus BRAVE/LOVE TRIANGLE/ENEMIES TO LOVERS/ROYALTY ROMANCE/MARRIAGE OF CONVENIENCE/SCOTLAND VIBES/HIGH FAE/ content
♚QUOTES♚
“May the stars light your path and may the mountains tremble in your wake”
“Most of all, I want the chaos and laughter and life that you bring with you everywhere you go, and I want it always. I want you, always. As my wife, in every possible sense of the word.”
“And, Lemmikki?” he said softly. “I love you with every last broken piece of my soul, too.”
“I had never wanted a love that could break me. But, looking at ******* now, I knew that I would choose to be broken by him again and again for the rest of my masochistic life if that was the cost of loving him. Of being loved by him.”
“Do you still want me to keep my hands to myself?” My words were a whisper against his lips.
“I think you sometimes forget that I’m a princess,” I said. He snorted softly. “I think you sometimes forget that you’re a princess.”
“Because I might have told Rowan there was nothing I wouldn’t do for the safety of my clan, but if something happened to her...I would raze this entire kingdom to the ground to get her back.”
♚ I'm not really a YA girl anymore, but this is 100% my BEST YA READ OF THE YEAR.
♚ I've seen this series circling around social media, and I fell into the trap.
(I'm a sucker for an insta reel okay, sue me!!!)
♚ This book had everything I want in a read, the only thing missing for me would be a bit more... maturity??? (translation--->MORE SPICE) lol I AM WHO I AM 🤭😩
Fade to black/closed door reads literally make me want to SOB, but I still gobbled down this entire series. There was angst, and secret pining, and hfdjkhssh THE TENSIONNNN!!! It became *obsessive* for me even, I needed to know how this was going to settle.
***ALSO MMC USES THE SWEETEST PETNAME*** (yes yes I'm a sucker for this as well)
♚ Rowan, our FMC is 1st & foremost, hilarious lol. 2nd she is the Daughter of the Warrior Queen (bada$$ confirmed) & 3rd absolutely RECKLESS.
♚ I genuinely *devoured* all 4 books, and the 20+ bonus chapters 🤭🙃
(YES I REC THIS VERSION &&& OOOOH DON'T GET ME STARTED ON THE AUDIOBOOK)
I've seen quite a few reviews comparing this to ACOTAR, and I would do so loosely, there is just a thin FAE magic common theme. This is more of a naïve young princess attempting to find her own place within harsh & misogynistic lands .... well when I put it like that???🤔😅 lmfao. I guess same same but still so diff!!!
♚ With bonus BRAVE/LOVE TRIANGLE/ENEMIES TO LOVERS/ROYALTY ROMANCE/MARRIAGE OF CONVENIENCE/SCOTLAND VIBES/HIGH FAE/ content
♚QUOTES♚
“May the stars light your path and may the mountains tremble in your wake”
“Most of all, I want the chaos and laughter and life that you bring with you everywhere you go, and I want it always. I want you, always. As my wife, in every possible sense of the word.”
“And, Lemmikki?” he said softly. “I love you with every last broken piece of my soul, too.”
“I had never wanted a love that could break me. But, looking at ******* now, I knew that I would choose to be broken by him again and again for the rest of my masochistic life if that was the cost of loving him. Of being loved by him.”
“Do you still want me to keep my hands to myself?” My words were a whisper against his lips.
“I think you sometimes forget that I’m a princess,” I said. He snorted softly. “I think you sometimes forget that you’re a princess.”
“Because I might have told Rowan there was nothing I wouldn’t do for the safety of my clan, but if something happened to her...I would raze this entire kingdom to the ground to get her back.”
August 12, 2023
A Merida retelling- I gobbled up this entire series in one weekend! I love the main character and how powerful yet vulnerable she is. The humor was a 10/10 also!
October 27, 2023
Guys, GUYS. WHERE HAS THIS SERIES BEEN????
The fact that while I'm writing this review, I'm already on BOOK 3 OF THIS SERIES AHFJDKGHDJKGH
Pls if you love fantasy, feisty MCs, gorgeous gorgeous banter with slow burn hate-to-love romance READ THIS
Idk even how to review this so I'm just gonna mention a few things that I liked.
1. Rowan is sort of like Merida I guess? she's got this crazy red hair and likes to fight, which is amazing but what's even better is how she appreciates other women who aren't like her, who are maybe more girly or like/want other things in life. Not only that, but when other men tell her she is so special, she immediately shuts those comments off.
"You are like no woman I have ever met."
"Or perhaps, you have met many women like me. Only you aren't aware of them because you never let them speak."
2. the world building is interesting and for once, I didn't skip those pages filled with descriptions
3. every character is unique and definitely important to the story. Even minor characters have this quality to them, layers and personalities. I cared for every single person in this story, even the bad guys - wanted to see what their motives were.
4. most importantly, this story is so. much. fun. Especially because the Socairans think red hair is cursed and usually stare in horror or even pray whenever Rowan passes by so we get stuff like this:
It was probably the hair. Maybe I could twirl around too fast and accidentally hit him in the face with the full force of my curls.
The amount of ways Rowan thought of disposing people with her hair is admirable. Not only that, she also asks the important questions such as:
"Why? Why was soup cold in the middle of autumn?"
Honestly, I could quote the whole book and it wouldn't be enough. Especially bc the sequel is even betterrrr bc that one character that shows up pretty late in the story and who I thought to be pretty interesting turns out to be an important person in the 2nd book 😏
But let's be honest here, when it comes to the plot...
But did I notice it? NOPE. The writing is just that good, I flew through the book not even noticing the lack of a complex storyline. It's just lots of traveling, amazing banter and Rowan being the sassiest fighter slash princess. And I didn't mind one bit.
The fact that while I'm writing this review, I'm already on BOOK 3 OF THIS SERIES AHFJDKGHDJKGH
Pls if you love fantasy, feisty MCs, gorgeous gorgeous banter with slow burn hate-to-love romance READ THIS
Idk even how to review this so I'm just gonna mention a few things that I liked.
1. Rowan is sort of like Merida I guess? she's got this crazy red hair and likes to fight, which is amazing but what's even better is how she appreciates other women who aren't like her, who are maybe more girly or like/want other things in life. Not only that, but when other men tell her she is so special, she immediately shuts those comments off.
"You are like no woman I have ever met."
"Or perhaps, you have met many women like me. Only you aren't aware of them because you never let them speak."
2. the world building is interesting and for once, I didn't skip those pages filled with descriptions
3. every character is unique and definitely important to the story. Even minor characters have this quality to them, layers and personalities. I cared for every single person in this story, even the bad guys - wanted to see what their motives were.
4. most importantly, this story is so. much. fun. Especially because the Socairans think red hair is cursed and usually stare in horror or even pray whenever Rowan passes by so we get stuff like this:
It was probably the hair. Maybe I could twirl around too fast and accidentally hit him in the face with the full force of my curls.
The amount of ways Rowan thought of disposing people with her hair is admirable. Not only that, she also asks the important questions such as:
"Why? Why was soup cold in the middle of autumn?"
Honestly, I could quote the whole book and it wouldn't be enough. Especially bc the sequel is even betterrrr bc that one character that shows up pretty late in the story and who I thought to be pretty interesting turns out to be an important person in the 2nd book 😏
But let's be honest here, when it comes to the plot...
But did I notice it? NOPE. The writing is just that good, I flew through the book not even noticing the lack of a complex storyline. It's just lots of traveling, amazing banter and Rowan being the sassiest fighter slash princess. And I didn't mind one bit.
December 31, 2023
DNF 80% I just can't do this. There's next to nothing here. :(
September 22, 2021
“The Scarlet Princess (The Lochlann Feuds #1)" by Robin Mahle and Elle Madison is a combination of the Disney Pixar movie, “Brave” mixed in with a little bit of Sarah J Maas’ (“A Crown of Wings and Fury” series).
Princess Rowan and her cousin Davin are arrested for trespassing and smuggling, held captive by the “barbarian” country that has been at war with their home of Lochlann, for years. Rowan is able to convince the Socairans to let Davin go free, but in exchange, she is to face a trial at the hands of the elder leaders of the surrounding communities. Accompanied to the Summit by Theo, a Socairan prince, Rowan anxiously awaits her fate- wondering if she will be subject to death. But as the journey goes forward and the Summit date draws near, Rowan and Theo begin to fall for each other even though both know that a relationship between the two rival clans would not be looked at favourably. As the Summit arrives, Rowan fears that she will be separated from Theo forever and Theo wonders if his influence will be enough to save Rowan’s life.
“Scarlet Princess” has nothing in its plotline that will be unexpected. Fans of this genre, and YA fantasy fans, will know exactly what is going to happen and how it will play out. That does not mean, of course, that you can’t enjoy the ride along the way.
Rowan is spunky and wry, unwilling to accept the fate dolled on upon her by the male leaders, every ounce the stereotypical young female role model. Sarcastic and brave, she is the very face of the protagonist we come to expect in a female-led YA fantasy series. Theo too, is the “well built, handsome and chiseled” prince whose love for Rowan is unexpected, and risky, but the two fall madly in love with each other anyway, after less than two weeks together.
The novel is the first in a series, and I adored Rowan enough that I am invested in seeing what happens next. “Scarlet Princess” is well-written, easy to read, and has great flow. The characters are completely charming and likable, and there is an instant bond between Rowan and the reader. I was invested in what her fate would be, and the ending provided the expected cliff-hanger that comes with a series of novels. “Scarlet Princess” is a light and fun fantasy read, and it will definitely appeal to fans of Sarah J Maas and authors of her ilk.
Princess Rowan and her cousin Davin are arrested for trespassing and smuggling, held captive by the “barbarian” country that has been at war with their home of Lochlann, for years. Rowan is able to convince the Socairans to let Davin go free, but in exchange, she is to face a trial at the hands of the elder leaders of the surrounding communities. Accompanied to the Summit by Theo, a Socairan prince, Rowan anxiously awaits her fate- wondering if she will be subject to death. But as the journey goes forward and the Summit date draws near, Rowan and Theo begin to fall for each other even though both know that a relationship between the two rival clans would not be looked at favourably. As the Summit arrives, Rowan fears that she will be separated from Theo forever and Theo wonders if his influence will be enough to save Rowan’s life.
“Scarlet Princess” has nothing in its plotline that will be unexpected. Fans of this genre, and YA fantasy fans, will know exactly what is going to happen and how it will play out. That does not mean, of course, that you can’t enjoy the ride along the way.
Rowan is spunky and wry, unwilling to accept the fate dolled on upon her by the male leaders, every ounce the stereotypical young female role model. Sarcastic and brave, she is the very face of the protagonist we come to expect in a female-led YA fantasy series. Theo too, is the “well built, handsome and chiseled” prince whose love for Rowan is unexpected, and risky, but the two fall madly in love with each other anyway, after less than two weeks together.
The novel is the first in a series, and I adored Rowan enough that I am invested in seeing what happens next. “Scarlet Princess” is well-written, easy to read, and has great flow. The characters are completely charming and likable, and there is an instant bond between Rowan and the reader. I was invested in what her fate would be, and the ending provided the expected cliff-hanger that comes with a series of novels. “Scarlet Princess” is a light and fun fantasy read, and it will definitely appeal to fans of Sarah J Maas and authors of her ilk.
September 14, 2021
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. This review is a Read-Along Review (I've reviewed the book as I read it) and pretty much SPOILER-FREE! (Minor Spoilers only).
Contents
First Impression
Little things I appreciate
The Scarlet in The Title
The Dresses
Stars
Friendship with Mila
Princess Rowan's Character
World Building
Things I didn't enjoy
The romance
The characters
Bonus
Final Impression
The Last Chapters
Summary
FIRST IMPRESSION
Scarlet Princess starts with quoted lines from one of my favourite songs - Runaway by Aurora. That gives me a gist of what I might be in for. I start expecting an adventure here. As I read the prologue, I get exactly that. Princess Scarlet seems to be on run but from what? Or who? Before we can find that out, she's caught.
I like the fact that there is no mention of any Prince Charming in the very first pages. I like good romance in my books but I don't like to jump to it directly. I want to hear some backstory and Scarlet Princess gives me exactly that. So far so good.
Enter Prince Charming.
And oh the handsome devil does make a sinister entry. Seems like the Princess and the cousin have done a capital crime. That's what our Prince Charming Laird Theodore says. Now if you're smarty pants, you know that nobody is dying just yet. But I dooooo sense an enemies-to-lovers trope and I am so excited!
LITTLE THINGS I APPRECIATE
The Scarlet in The Title
Until the second chapter, I thought Scarlet was the name of the Princess. It's not. That's fine but what disappointed me was that she wasn't the only princess with red hair. In fact, her sisters had even curls like her along with the same red colour. This was disappointing because it just made me feel like any of them could be addressed as the Scarlet Princess. So what unique value did that title bring?
I realized later that during Princess Rowan's stay at Elk Clan, she was the only one with red hair. And she was a princess. Hence the Scarlet Princess. It seems fitting now.
However, I still think this book could be named something else.
The Dresses
In their texts, the authors have successfully described how complex and intricate the Socairan dresses are. I can feel the suffocation through the description.
The details weren't as good as that mentioned in a fairly similar book The Shadows Between Us by Tricia Levenseller but they came close.
Later in the book, we saw Princess Rowan wearing another kind of dresses which I wish I had the talent to draw!
The suffocating dresses weren't just for show, however, as they added to the story when more than once, they helped ease the tense atmosphere.
Stars
In Shadowhunters, they'd say "By the Angel". In Lochlann Feuds , they say, "Stars". This is unique and Intriguing. I wonder what it means. I suspect it has to do with astrology. Were there Astrologers during Lochlann times? What is their importance, if yes?
I figure I'd be able to check that out if I read The Lochlann Treaty series by the same authors.
Friendship with Mila
Among the entire squad of Princess-Haters, I was glad to find someone who was friendly with her from the beginning of their relationship. Princess Rowan met Mila at The Summit. (The Summit decides the fate of the princess. I would not spoil the book for you by detailing the subject:)
Mila was the first one to openly call her the Scarlet Princess . I look forward to their relationship progressing in the next books. (Oh, did I not mention? It's a series and I'm hoping for the second book soon!)
Princess Rowan' Character
Last but not least, I've a separate section for this as I think the princess deserves a distinctive focus. I feel that she was the only character written in-depth. I liked her really much. She is fierce and fiery like her hair. It suits her. She is unlike other girls in Socair (but not unlike book heroines).
I liked her forwardness. It reminded me of Alessandra from The Shadows Between Us. However, I strongly feel Alessandra was a much better (but not the best) character. The reason probably being Rowan's character influenced by Clarie from Outlander.
Yet she was pretty sassy and I enjoyed that. What for her amusing terms like arseling for Lord Evander to the de-stars-damned-mure, a play on the word demure, a vital trait required in Socairan women! Oof.
She reminds me of a song by Caylee Hammack perfectly fitting for a Scarlet Princess :
Rowan's an astounding character! Despite being caught in the land of the foe, she takes time to truly look around. She strives to understand why things are the way they are, all the while being surrounded by those who believe red-hair is cursed.
Her fight scene is especially impressive. I almost expected that to happen yet I thoroughly enjoyed it. As you read it, you'd understand that it was a pivotal scene in the story.
However, like her father said, she couldn't go five minutes without doing something stupid. She does live up to her reputation until the end. Many would say that the character is stupid and lacking but I only think that this very trait gave Rowan the naturality much needed in a lead.
The story hence is all about how a reckless princess survives the culture shock and save her life. I applaud the authors for this one.
World Building
The world of Socairns and Lochalnns is a pretty intricate one. What with their laws and regulations. The unclanned also bring in flavor to the world. I'm reasonably satisfied with Lochlann universe and wish to read more of it.
THINGS I DIDN'T ENJOY
The romance
While I was looking forward to an enemies-to-lovers dark romance, I didn't really get the feels of it as we progress in the book. Scarlet Princess had undertones of Outlander by Diana Gabaldon. I figured the authors were aiming for a couple like Jamie and Claire. First off, I have mixed feelings about that ship, to begin with. However, in the setting of Outlander, it seemed fitting. What went wrong here I feel is that Jamie and Claire weren't enemies-to-lovers (e2l). They were friends from the start. One could convert that into e2l but I feel the authors did not do it efficiently enough.
Our Princess Rowan and Prince Charming Lord Theodore started off nice and I was looking forward to how it'd develop but along the way, the flow was somehow lost. Lord Theodore wasn't dark enough to be a morally grey character and hence be one of the enemies in the e2l. If I had to really stretch it, I'd say he was pretty light grey but only at the very beginning.
Moreover, when they actually came together, the confession didn't make much sense. I couldn't figure out at what point exactly did they start liking each other. Frankly, there weren't any strong moments between them until then at least.
On a side note, I felt that Lord Evander could have been a better suitor. A true enemy but much charming he was.
Like I said before, I was very excited about it, but now I'm fairly disappointed. This is where I subtract half star as this is something that cannot even be fixed in the later books.
And seriously? In-love within a week?
Love-at-first-sight is my biggest pet peeve! As I have stated in my review of The Sun is Also A Star, "that term is so wrong really. Like attraction-at-first-sight or like-at-first-sight, is okay. That’s natural. Biological. But Love-at-first-sight is misleading. That never happens. Not literally."
Following bonus part contains a huge spoiler of both Scarlet Princess and Outlander so read at your own risk.
The characters
Except for Rowan's and Mila's character, I enjoyed none others truly. They weren't deep enough and I see no valuable development. I cannot really feel any strong connections among the characters in the story. I feel like it may fare better to include more Lochlann characters as they sounded richer than Socairan characters, which were just different shades of the same colour (except Lord Evander).
But to be fair, I'd better judge the characters at the series end and not at the book's end as there's much hope for them. They have a lot of potentials and I look forward to experiencing that.
FINAL IMPRESSION
The Last Chapters
OMGOMGOMG!! The last chapters are completely mind-blowing!! Like I will not tell you what happens because gosh that would just be a majoooorrr spoiler but stars be damned, you gotta read this book! It is so thrilllling by the end and makes up for the disappointment just before! Like this is where I change my star rating to 3.5 instead of 3 because really really it is worth it! Go ahead and read it, I promise you won't be disappointed by it.
Authhorsss, when next book?? (BTW It is called "Tranished Crown"! I'm excited for the cover reveal even!!)
Summary
Princess Rowan is an astonishing character laced with a flare of recklessness and fearlessness. She's a feisty redhead who has the bravery to rebel but not the brains to preserve. Everything was good and there was some very disappointing parts, too. However, it was the end that blew my mind! I totally did not see that coming. I don't like the Outlander undertone of the book. I'm hoping that it'd be fixed in the next books and the story would be naturally Lochlannian and Socairn instead of Outlandish. (Which if the last chapters are any suggestion, it very much might be!)
The romance is more of forbidden love than enemies to lovers which was very much of a disappointment. The characters Mila and Davin are fairly entertaining however we don't get to see a great lot of either, which I wish would change in the next books. (Also I'm totallllly shipping Rowander. I might finally get my enemies-to-lovers!). The writing style was pretty impressive. The world-building was crafty. The story wasn't enthralling but it surely was an entertaining experience. It definitely is fast-paced and the perfect length for me.
I would love to read more from Robin D. Mahle and Elle Madison in the hopes that this time they deliver a more rich experience. Tell me what do you think of the book. I welcome similar recommendations and your thoughts even if they don't align with mine.
Thank you for reading, have a good day!
To support me buy the book from the link here: https://amzn.to/3kMO2Ju
Contents
First Impression
Little things I appreciate
The Scarlet in The Title
The Dresses
Stars
Friendship with Mila
Princess Rowan's Character
World Building
Things I didn't enjoy
The romance
The characters
Bonus
Final Impression
The Last Chapters
Summary
FIRST IMPRESSION
Scarlet Princess starts with quoted lines from one of my favourite songs - Runaway by Aurora. That gives me a gist of what I might be in for. I start expecting an adventure here. As I read the prologue, I get exactly that. Princess Scarlet seems to be on run but from what? Or who? Before we can find that out, she's caught.
I like the fact that there is no mention of any Prince Charming in the very first pages. I like good romance in my books but I don't like to jump to it directly. I want to hear some backstory and Scarlet Princess gives me exactly that. So far so good.
Enter Prince Charming.
And oh the handsome devil does make a sinister entry. Seems like the Princess and the cousin have done a capital crime. That's what our Prince Charming Laird Theodore says. Now if you're smarty pants, you know that nobody is dying just yet. But I dooooo sense an enemies-to-lovers trope and I am so excited!
LITTLE THINGS I APPRECIATE
The Scarlet in The Title
Until the second chapter, I thought Scarlet was the name of the Princess. It's not. That's fine but what disappointed me was that she wasn't the only princess with red hair. In fact, her sisters had even curls like her along with the same red colour. This was disappointing because it just made me feel like any of them could be addressed as the Scarlet Princess. So what unique value did that title bring?
I realized later that during Princess Rowan's stay at Elk Clan, she was the only one with red hair. And she was a princess. Hence the Scarlet Princess. It seems fitting now.
However, I still think this book could be named something else.
The Dresses
In their texts, the authors have successfully described how complex and intricate the Socairan dresses are. I can feel the suffocation through the description.
The details weren't as good as that mentioned in a fairly similar book The Shadows Between Us by Tricia Levenseller but they came close.
Later in the book, we saw Princess Rowan wearing another kind of dresses which I wish I had the talent to draw!
The suffocating dresses weren't just for show, however, as they added to the story when more than once, they helped ease the tense atmosphere.
Stars
In Shadowhunters, they'd say "By the Angel". In Lochlann Feuds , they say, "Stars". This is unique and Intriguing. I wonder what it means. I suspect it has to do with astrology. Were there Astrologers during Lochlann times? What is their importance, if yes?
I figure I'd be able to check that out if I read The Lochlann Treaty series by the same authors.
Friendship with Mila
Among the entire squad of Princess-Haters, I was glad to find someone who was friendly with her from the beginning of their relationship. Princess Rowan met Mila at The Summit. (The Summit decides the fate of the princess. I would not spoil the book for you by detailing the subject:)
Mila was the first one to openly call her the Scarlet Princess . I look forward to their relationship progressing in the next books. (Oh, did I not mention? It's a series and I'm hoping for the second book soon!)
Princess Rowan' Character
Last but not least, I've a separate section for this as I think the princess deserves a distinctive focus. I feel that she was the only character written in-depth. I liked her really much. She is fierce and fiery like her hair. It suits her. She is unlike other girls in Socair (but not unlike book heroines).
I liked her forwardness. It reminded me of Alessandra from The Shadows Between Us. However, I strongly feel Alessandra was a much better (but not the best) character. The reason probably being Rowan's character influenced by Clarie from Outlander.
Yet she was pretty sassy and I enjoyed that. What for her amusing terms like arseling for Lord Evander to the de-stars-damned-mure, a play on the word demure, a vital trait required in Socairan women! Oof.
She reminds me of a song by Caylee Hammack perfectly fitting for a Scarlet Princess :
God made the blondes, black-haired, and the brunettes
Devil dropped in said, "I don't think you're done yet"
Let's make a compromise, make an angel backslide
So they chipped in, and they made a little redhead
Rowan's an astounding character! Despite being caught in the land of the foe, she takes time to truly look around. She strives to understand why things are the way they are, all the while being surrounded by those who believe red-hair is cursed.
Her fight scene is especially impressive. I almost expected that to happen yet I thoroughly enjoyed it. As you read it, you'd understand that it was a pivotal scene in the story.
However, like her father said, she couldn't go five minutes without doing something stupid. She does live up to her reputation until the end. Many would say that the character is stupid and lacking but I only think that this very trait gave Rowan the naturality much needed in a lead.
The story hence is all about how a reckless princess survives the culture shock and save her life. I applaud the authors for this one.
World Building
The world of Socairns and Lochalnns is a pretty intricate one. What with their laws and regulations. The unclanned also bring in flavor to the world. I'm reasonably satisfied with Lochlann universe and wish to read more of it.
THINGS I DIDN'T ENJOY
The romance
While I was looking forward to an enemies-to-lovers dark romance, I didn't really get the feels of it as we progress in the book. Scarlet Princess had undertones of Outlander by Diana Gabaldon. I figured the authors were aiming for a couple like Jamie and Claire. First off, I have mixed feelings about that ship, to begin with. However, in the setting of Outlander, it seemed fitting. What went wrong here I feel is that Jamie and Claire weren't enemies-to-lovers (e2l). They were friends from the start. One could convert that into e2l but I feel the authors did not do it efficiently enough.
Our Princess Rowan and Prince Charming Lord Theodore started off nice and I was looking forward to how it'd develop but along the way, the flow was somehow lost. Lord Theodore wasn't dark enough to be a morally grey character and hence be one of the enemies in the e2l. If I had to really stretch it, I'd say he was pretty light grey but only at the very beginning.
Moreover, when they actually came together, the confession didn't make much sense. I couldn't figure out at what point exactly did they start liking each other. Frankly, there weren't any strong moments between them until then at least.
On a side note, I felt that Lord Evander could have been a better suitor. A true enemy but much charming he was.
Like I said before, I was very excited about it, but now I'm fairly disappointed. This is where I subtract half star as this is something that cannot even be fixed in the later books.
And seriously? In-love within a week?
Love-at-first-sight is my biggest pet peeve! As I have stated in my review of The Sun is Also A Star, "that term is so wrong really. Like attraction-at-first-sight or like-at-first-sight, is okay. That’s natural. Biological. But Love-at-first-sight is misleading. That never happens. Not literally."
Following bonus part contains a huge spoiler of both Scarlet Princess and Outlander so read at your own risk.
The characters
Except for Rowan's and Mila's character, I enjoyed none others truly. They weren't deep enough and I see no valuable development. I cannot really feel any strong connections among the characters in the story. I feel like it may fare better to include more Lochlann characters as they sounded richer than Socairan characters, which were just different shades of the same colour (except Lord Evander).
But to be fair, I'd better judge the characters at the series end and not at the book's end as there's much hope for them. They have a lot of potentials and I look forward to experiencing that.
FINAL IMPRESSION
The Last Chapters
OMGOMGOMG!! The last chapters are completely mind-blowing!! Like I will not tell you what happens because gosh that would just be a majoooorrr spoiler but stars be damned, you gotta read this book! It is so thrilllling by the end and makes up for the disappointment just before! Like this is where I change my star rating to 3.5 instead of 3 because really really it is worth it! Go ahead and read it, I promise you won't be disappointed by it.
Authhorsss, when next book?? (BTW It is called "Tranished Crown"! I'm excited for the cover reveal even!!)
Summary
Princess Rowan is an astonishing character laced with a flare of recklessness and fearlessness. She's a feisty redhead who has the bravery to rebel but not the brains to preserve. Everything was good and there was some very disappointing parts, too. However, it was the end that blew my mind! I totally did not see that coming. I don't like the Outlander undertone of the book. I'm hoping that it'd be fixed in the next books and the story would be naturally Lochlannian and Socairn instead of Outlandish. (Which if the last chapters are any suggestion, it very much might be!)
The romance is more of forbidden love than enemies to lovers which was very much of a disappointment. The characters Mila and Davin are fairly entertaining however we don't get to see a great lot of either, which I wish would change in the next books. (Also I'm totallllly shipping Rowander. I might finally get my enemies-to-lovers!). The writing style was pretty impressive. The world-building was crafty. The story wasn't enthralling but it surely was an entertaining experience. It definitely is fast-paced and the perfect length for me.
I would love to read more from Robin D. Mahle and Elle Madison in the hopes that this time they deliver a more rich experience. Tell me what do you think of the book. I welcome similar recommendations and your thoughts even if they don't align with mine.
Thank you for reading, have a good day!
To support me buy the book from the link here: https://amzn.to/3kMO2Ju
November 6, 2023
A mature YA romantasy that deserves all the stars! Theo is the sweetest. And Rowan is the type of FMC you cannot help but root for.
Listened to the audiobook and was hooked from beginning to end by Olivia King’s performance.
Listened to the audiobook and was hooked from beginning to end by Olivia King’s performance.
December 8, 2023
3.5 because i have never read a fantasy quite like this
okay, that might be exaggerating.
BUT just forget about the plot, the characters, everything other than the writing/pacing. it’s literally jennifer lynn barnes if she wrote fantasy. fast paced, short chapters, the sort of writing that you don’t even realize when you’ve read 100 pages.
there’s just no fantasies like that, at least not that i’ve come across. as someone who reads the genrenonstop often, it’s annoying when i get in a slump and there’s none with this type of writing. authors, take notes!!!
okay now the plot itself was a little cliche. girl gets caught by rival kingdom doing something illegal, girl gets taken prisoner, girl faces dire punishment, but while waiting for said punishment girl falls in love with rival country member.
it got a bit boring, if i’m being honest. the first half or so is our fmc being taken to “the summit” but the journey was repetitive - travel, problem arises, stop for the night, steal kisses with our mmc, pretend it didn’t happen, then repeat.
even at the summit, the routine was very repetitive. more fun and interesting this time, but still.
i did like the characters. they remind me a lot of acotar characters, especially after the way this ended. rowan’s attitude was a lot like feyre’s. evander’s demeanor was described to be a lot like rhys’. but as someone who ate up (is still eating up, actually) acotar, i ... well, ate this up.
will definitely be continuing the series!!! and it’s a bonus that these are indie authors. so if you’re looking for an easy, fast paced fantasy or are wanting to get into the genre, this is your book!
okay, that might be exaggerating.
BUT just forget about the plot, the characters, everything other than the writing/pacing. it’s literally jennifer lynn barnes if she wrote fantasy. fast paced, short chapters, the sort of writing that you don’t even realize when you’ve read 100 pages.
there’s just no fantasies like that, at least not that i’ve come across. as someone who reads the genre
okay now the plot itself was a little cliche. girl gets caught by rival kingdom doing something illegal, girl gets taken prisoner, girl faces dire punishment, but while waiting for said punishment girl falls in love with rival country member.
it got a bit boring, if i’m being honest. the first half or so is our fmc being taken to “the summit” but the journey was repetitive - travel, problem arises, stop for the night, steal kisses with our mmc, pretend it didn’t happen, then repeat.
even at the summit, the routine was very repetitive. more fun and interesting this time, but still.
i did like the characters. they remind me a lot of acotar characters, especially after the way this ended. rowan’s attitude was a lot like feyre’s. evander’s demeanor was described to be a lot like rhys’. but as someone who ate up (is still eating up, actually) acotar, i ... well, ate this up.
will definitely be continuing the series!!! and it’s a bonus that these are indie authors. so if you’re looking for an easy, fast paced fantasy or are wanting to get into the genre, this is your book!
August 31, 2021
Guuuyyyssss! I have so many feelings! This was 👏 just 👏 fantastic 👏 It's a clean YA fantasy read.
Rowan is a sassy little thing, who gets herself into a lot of trouble. 😂
Theo is so swoon-worthy *sigh* Nothing sexier than a tough yet romantic man who fights for his woman! 💪
Their chemistry is 🤌🏼 *chefs kiss*
SUCH a great story. Laugh out loud moments. Happy tears. Sad tears. Some action. An enemy kingdom. Mind blowing twists. Loads of fun! And ... a cliffhanger in true ElBin fashion. 😆 These Ladies are fantastic story tellers. Very much looking forward to the next installment.
If you enjoyed The Lochlann Treaty you'll absolutely love this, and vice versa.
.
📚 Some Quotes
“I thought we could do something fun, but it would appear you are already enjoying yourself too much.”
“Fun? I wasn’t aware that Socairans knew the meaning of the word,” I responded dryly.
“It might not be as enjoyable as annoying me or smuggling vodka, but then again, what is?”
.
Still, I loved my parents together, but I didn’t want the kind of love you went to war for. I didn’t want the kind of love that could break you.
.
"You are like no woman I have ever met."
Rowan is a sassy little thing, who gets herself into a lot of trouble. 😂
Theo is so swoon-worthy *sigh* Nothing sexier than a tough yet romantic man who fights for his woman! 💪
Their chemistry is 🤌🏼 *chefs kiss*
SUCH a great story. Laugh out loud moments. Happy tears. Sad tears. Some action. An enemy kingdom. Mind blowing twists. Loads of fun! And ... a cliffhanger in true ElBin fashion. 😆 These Ladies are fantastic story tellers. Very much looking forward to the next installment.
If you enjoyed The Lochlann Treaty you'll absolutely love this, and vice versa.
.
📚 Some Quotes
“I thought we could do something fun, but it would appear you are already enjoying yourself too much.”
“Fun? I wasn’t aware that Socairans knew the meaning of the word,” I responded dryly.
“It might not be as enjoyable as annoying me or smuggling vodka, but then again, what is?”
.
Still, I loved my parents together, but I didn’t want the kind of love you went to war for. I didn’t want the kind of love that could break you.
.
"You are like no woman I have ever met."
July 30, 2024
girl bye...
this not only is NOT enemies to lovers, but it also is insta love. that would be okay if the politics and magic system made up to it but IT DOES NOT.
just a bland ass book
I can't even imagine why the author would need 4 FUCKING BOOKS to finish the >no plot< of this series ???
this not only is NOT enemies to lovers, but it also is insta love. that would be okay if the politics and magic system made up to it but IT DOES NOT.
just a bland ass book
I can't even imagine why the author would need 4 FUCKING BOOKS to finish the >no plot< of this series ???
August 21, 2023
★★★.5
If she doesn’t end up with Evander I quit!!!!!!!!!
It was a nice first book in a series but it’s not the most incredible book ever. It’s quite cliche which I don’t mind but the main thing that bothered me was the romance. Theo and Rowan know each other for 10 days and they’re already in love ? No sorry Theo I love a blond man but my heart goes to Evander who is mysterious, a bit mean and cold and WE LOVE THAT. I’d like to be owned by him and I’m sure (hope) Rowan is going to be very lucky. Thank you for coming to my ted talk.
Tropes:
• enemies to lovers
• one bed
• forced proximity
If she doesn’t end up with Evander I quit!!!!!!!!!
It was a nice first book in a series but it’s not the most incredible book ever. It’s quite cliche which I don’t mind but the main thing that bothered me was the romance. Theo and Rowan know each other for 10 days and they’re already in love ? No sorry Theo I love a blond man but my heart goes to Evander who is mysterious, a bit mean and cold and WE LOVE THAT. I’d like to be owned by him and I’m sure (hope) Rowan is going to be very lucky. Thank you for coming to my ted talk.
Tropes:
• enemies to lovers
• one bed
• forced proximity
September 13, 2023
Perfect for fans of Outlander and A Court of Thorns and Roses
- enemies to lovers
- feisty heroine
- witty banter
- imprisonment
- forced proximity
I was able to get all the audiobooks for the whole series with one audible credit….the author is genius for doing this because after reading the first book, I’m going to buy the whole series in paperback too.
- enemies to lovers
- feisty heroine
- witty banter
- imprisonment
- forced proximity
I was able to get all the audiobooks for the whole series with one audible credit….the author is genius for doing this because after reading the first book, I’m going to buy the whole series in paperback too.
Read
August 29, 2023Hard DNF. The characters weren't really my cup of tea. I could not for the life of me understand how exactly this princess kept taking the fact she was isolated on enemy territory so lightly. She woke up in a dungeon and asked for food and kind of treated the whole ordeal like it was some grand joke. Meanwhile, I'm over here looking at my English royalty history books thinking about how horrible this would have played out for her all because she wanted some fucking vodka. She's lucky they didn't cut off her fingers idk I'm maybe too aware of the history between England and Scotland/Ireland. I know they're called something different here but 👀😏 come on. I see you.
Theodore (our love interest) is about as interesting as a wet blanket. His personality slipped between racism, misogyny and constipation from that broom handle shoved so far up his ass. Not a pleasant dude from the jump. He's also SURROUNDED by equally unpleasant dudes which somehow made me despise him for being the milder choice in a sea of ineptitude.
Theodore (our love interest) is about as interesting as a wet blanket. His personality slipped between racism, misogyny and constipation from that broom handle shoved so far up his ass. Not a pleasant dude from the jump. He's also SURROUNDED by equally unpleasant dudes which somehow made me despise him for being the milder choice in a sea of ineptitude.
February 11, 2024
3.5 stars
Okay... intruiged enough to continue with the series.
Okay... intruiged enough to continue with the series.
August 27, 2021
(4,5 ☆)
Princess Rowan of Lochlann and her cousin Davin are on a smuggling mission when the tunnel they're in collapses, preventing them from getting home. Instead they're captured by some guards from the kingdom Socarian, where smuggling is punished with death...
Rowan is a wonderful character! Outspoken, sassy, fierce, and always looking for an adventure. This, of course, means that she often finds herself in trouble, and I sometimes want to strangle her, or at least ask her to consider the ramifications! Other times I can fully understand her actions. I can also understand Theo's frustration with her!
The kingdoms Lochlann and Socarian are sworn enemies, and when the Elk Clan find out that their prisoner is a Lochlann royalty they realise they can't decide her fate on their own. They call for a Summit with the other eight clans and Rowan has no other choice than to let a group of hostile clan leaders decide whether she lives or dies. Her only hope is that no one really wants to risk another war...
To Rowan, coming to Socarian means a cultural clash, and she always has to think about how she acts and what she says. Other than being enemy territory, Socarian is a patriarchy, where women are to be seen, but not heard. Rowan, who's used to freedom and defending herself - literally - can't believe that socarian women are to be sheltered and defended by the men. She's been taught sword fighting since she was a child.
Theo, the brother of the leader of the Elk Clan, is Rowan's opposite in many ways. Strict, soft-spoken, and rarely showing emotions. I would have liked to get Theo's POV as well as Rowan's, but that's really my only "complaint". The book has short chapters (easy to read "just one more chapter"), it's funny (the things Rowan says sometimes...!), exciting and has one of my favourite tropes, enemies to lovers!
This is a spin off of another series, The Lochlann Treaty, and takes place about 20 years after and with a new generation. I haven't read the first series (yet), and you don't have to in order to understand "Scarlet Princess", but I definitely want to do that now!
* I received an ARC from the authors and I'm giving my honest review. *
Princess Rowan of Lochlann and her cousin Davin are on a smuggling mission when the tunnel they're in collapses, preventing them from getting home. Instead they're captured by some guards from the kingdom Socarian, where smuggling is punished with death...
Rowan is a wonderful character! Outspoken, sassy, fierce, and always looking for an adventure. This, of course, means that she often finds herself in trouble, and I sometimes want to strangle her, or at least ask her to consider the ramifications! Other times I can fully understand her actions. I can also understand Theo's frustration with her!
The kingdoms Lochlann and Socarian are sworn enemies, and when the Elk Clan find out that their prisoner is a Lochlann royalty they realise they can't decide her fate on their own. They call for a Summit with the other eight clans and Rowan has no other choice than to let a group of hostile clan leaders decide whether she lives or dies. Her only hope is that no one really wants to risk another war...
To Rowan, coming to Socarian means a cultural clash, and she always has to think about how she acts and what she says. Other than being enemy territory, Socarian is a patriarchy, where women are to be seen, but not heard. Rowan, who's used to freedom and defending herself - literally - can't believe that socarian women are to be sheltered and defended by the men. She's been taught sword fighting since she was a child.
Theo, the brother of the leader of the Elk Clan, is Rowan's opposite in many ways. Strict, soft-spoken, and rarely showing emotions. I would have liked to get Theo's POV as well as Rowan's, but that's really my only "complaint". The book has short chapters (easy to read "just one more chapter"), it's funny (the things Rowan says sometimes...!), exciting and has one of my favourite tropes, enemies to lovers!
This is a spin off of another series, The Lochlann Treaty, and takes place about 20 years after and with a new generation. I haven't read the first series (yet), and you don't have to in order to understand "Scarlet Princess", but I definitely want to do that now!
* I received an ARC from the authors and I'm giving my honest review. *
April 19, 2022
3.25 Stars
This was okay. I'm definitely seeing the potential so I'm sure it will get better, but this book was just a bit repetitive at times with and immature heroine. I'm liking the hero already though.
This was okay. I'm definitely seeing the potential so I'm sure it will get better, but this book was just a bit repetitive at times with and immature heroine. I'm liking the hero already though.
September 10, 2024
I read this book in one sitting! It was simple, cute with an incredible and entertaining banter! The storyline so far is meh, but the politics and the difference between kingdoms is good! I wouldn't call it a fabtasy, but there is a mention of blood fae and abilities!
Our FMC Rowan is awesome! She is sassy, funny, compassionate and talented with a sword! I honestly like her a lot, especially her comments when she knew that people in this kingdom are prudes, it was so fun and I laughed many times!
Theodore is cool! So far I like him, but there is something telling me that he is another TamTam! So far, he is honourable and pretty much interested immediately in Rowan! I don't know if he is the endgame though!
Evander is the typical dark haired asshole, we met him by the end of the book, yet he did leave an impression on me, and I'm ashamed to admit that i like him 🫣🫣!
Was this book revolutionary? Not really, but it made me laugh and the romance gave me butterflies so that's good enough for me!
Favourite scene Theo and Rowan's first kiss!
Our FMC Rowan is awesome! She is sassy, funny, compassionate and talented with a sword! I honestly like her a lot, especially her comments when she knew that people in this kingdom are prudes, it was so fun and I laughed many times!
Theodore is cool! So far I like him, but there is something telling me that he is another TamTam! So far, he is honourable and pretty much interested immediately in Rowan! I don't know if he is the endgame though!
Evander is the typical dark haired asshole, we met him by the end of the book, yet he did leave an impression on me, and I'm ashamed to admit that i like him 🫣🫣!
Was this book revolutionary? Not really, but it made me laugh and the romance gave me butterflies so that's good enough for me!
Favourite scene Theo and Rowan's first kiss!
August 27, 2021
I enjoyed reading this book. It was a great book and I loved the storyline and the characters. I can’t wait to read the second book.
August 13, 2023
Death was a hefty price to pay for vodka.
I mean with an opening line like that you know it’s going to be a great book right?!
Regular readers will know I’m a bit of an ElBin fangirl and often devour their books in 1 or 2 days. Scarlet Princess was no exception: I kept my kids fed and held down my full-time job for the day but the rest of the time was spent reading this amazing return into the Lochlann world.
Scarlet Princess is the first in the Lochlann Feuds series which is based approximately 20 years after Autumn’s Reign, the final in the Lochlann Treaty series. However, you don’t have to read the Lochlann Treaty in order to read Scarlet Princess: the world building, plot and characters shine just as brightly for this to be a standalone novel.
“It’s a lotus flower. They’re rare, complex flowers. Difficult to keep alive.”
“That doesn’t sound like anyone I know”
Scarlet Princess introduces us to Rowan, the Princess of Lochlann and her cousin Davin, whom we briefly met in the Lochlann Treaty. The cousins give the impression that they either go looking for trouble, or trouble just finds them! Therefore, it shouldn’t be so surprising that when we meet them, Rowan and Davin are just about to find themselves imprisoned in the neighbouring kingdom of Socair.
Sadly, Socair and Lochlann don’t have the friendliest history so getting home will be no easy feat for the cousins, if they can escape death first.
“Amicable and accommodating, Princess. I wonder if you are capable of either.“
Rowan is, without a doubt, a product of her parents: with her fiery red curls and equally fiery attitude it is easy for us to assume that Rowan takes after her father but then you find yourself internally shouting (or externally- no judgement) “why did you do that?!” and suddenly you see her mother's emotional, impulsive nature.
The smart mouth and the booziness? Well that’s just what makes Rowan, Rowan! And we love her for it!
“Am I boring you Princess Rowan?” He sighed.
“Always”
As Rowan’s journey continues though we see that she has been deeply affected by her parents’ quest for love. Our princess is quite closed off to love and is happy for a marriage to be arranged for her. At her young age Rowan equates love with warring kingdoms, losing children, losing husbands: ultimately, she equates love with loss.
Maybe that is why Rowan hides behind a mask of sarcasm and glib comments, seldom ever facing the reality of her predicament until it is too late.
I didn’t want the kind of love that could break you.
Behind her sarcasm though it is clear Rowan cares deeply about issues such as poverty and equality. She is forced to see that her life is very different in Lochlann, where villagers are not suffering and are looked after by their leaders; women are not seen as quiet mice who need protecting as they are in Socair. Maybe, just maybe, her life in Lochlann wasn’t as bad as she thought? But will Rowan ever see Lochlann again?
Besides, I never had been good at making the smart choice.
The cast of characters surrounding Rowan are equally as amazing as our princess. Davin is a ladies’ man just like his father, Iiro is authoritative one minute but then casually tortures his brother sensibilities the next and Mila is a great friend who comes swooping into Rowan’s life – there is definitely more to Mila than meets the eye though.
Rowan’s escort through Socair and the poor soul on the other end of most of her sarcasm is Lord Theodore, her captor and the heir to the Elk clan. Theo is fair where Rowan is fiery; stoic where she is scandalous and the tension between them …. oof it’s enough to make you swoon!
“You know when something just catches your attention and you can’t explain it?“
I loved revisiting Lochlann only to be immersed in the Kingdom of Socair: the mysterious enemy lurking behind the mountain. The 9 clans created a whole new dynamic from the previous books and the plot arc could have easily got lost within all the clan politics but it flowed beautifully.
All I will say is that I really shouldn’t trust Robin and Elle with happy endings – they will always rip it away with a few chapters to go. These two are the Queens of cliff-hangers!
Grab your copy of Scarlet Princess on August 27th 2021. Devour it in one day and then join me anxiously anticipating the sequel, Tarnished Crown in November 2021.
I mean with an opening line like that you know it’s going to be a great book right?!
Regular readers will know I’m a bit of an ElBin fangirl and often devour their books in 1 or 2 days. Scarlet Princess was no exception: I kept my kids fed and held down my full-time job for the day but the rest of the time was spent reading this amazing return into the Lochlann world.
Scarlet Princess is the first in the Lochlann Feuds series which is based approximately 20 years after Autumn’s Reign, the final in the Lochlann Treaty series. However, you don’t have to read the Lochlann Treaty in order to read Scarlet Princess: the world building, plot and characters shine just as brightly for this to be a standalone novel.
“It’s a lotus flower. They’re rare, complex flowers. Difficult to keep alive.”
“That doesn’t sound like anyone I know”
Scarlet Princess introduces us to Rowan, the Princess of Lochlann and her cousin Davin, whom we briefly met in the Lochlann Treaty. The cousins give the impression that they either go looking for trouble, or trouble just finds them! Therefore, it shouldn’t be so surprising that when we meet them, Rowan and Davin are just about to find themselves imprisoned in the neighbouring kingdom of Socair.
Sadly, Socair and Lochlann don’t have the friendliest history so getting home will be no easy feat for the cousins, if they can escape death first.
“Amicable and accommodating, Princess. I wonder if you are capable of either.“
Rowan is, without a doubt, a product of her parents: with her fiery red curls and equally fiery attitude it is easy for us to assume that Rowan takes after her father but then you find yourself internally shouting (or externally- no judgement) “why did you do that?!” and suddenly you see her mother's emotional, impulsive nature.
The smart mouth and the booziness? Well that’s just what makes Rowan, Rowan! And we love her for it!
“Am I boring you Princess Rowan?” He sighed.
“Always”
As Rowan’s journey continues though we see that she has been deeply affected by her parents’ quest for love. Our princess is quite closed off to love and is happy for a marriage to be arranged for her. At her young age Rowan equates love with warring kingdoms, losing children, losing husbands: ultimately, she equates love with loss.
Maybe that is why Rowan hides behind a mask of sarcasm and glib comments, seldom ever facing the reality of her predicament until it is too late.
I didn’t want the kind of love that could break you.
Behind her sarcasm though it is clear Rowan cares deeply about issues such as poverty and equality. She is forced to see that her life is very different in Lochlann, where villagers are not suffering and are looked after by their leaders; women are not seen as quiet mice who need protecting as they are in Socair. Maybe, just maybe, her life in Lochlann wasn’t as bad as she thought? But will Rowan ever see Lochlann again?
Besides, I never had been good at making the smart choice.
The cast of characters surrounding Rowan are equally as amazing as our princess. Davin is a ladies’ man just like his father, Iiro is authoritative one minute but then casually tortures his brother sensibilities the next and Mila is a great friend who comes swooping into Rowan’s life – there is definitely more to Mila than meets the eye though.
Rowan’s escort through Socair and the poor soul on the other end of most of her sarcasm is Lord Theodore, her captor and the heir to the Elk clan. Theo is fair where Rowan is fiery; stoic where she is scandalous and the tension between them …. oof it’s enough to make you swoon!
“You know when something just catches your attention and you can’t explain it?“
I loved revisiting Lochlann only to be immersed in the Kingdom of Socair: the mysterious enemy lurking behind the mountain. The 9 clans created a whole new dynamic from the previous books and the plot arc could have easily got lost within all the clan politics but it flowed beautifully.
All I will say is that I really shouldn’t trust Robin and Elle with happy endings – they will always rip it away with a few chapters to go. These two are the Queens of cliff-hangers!
Grab your copy of Scarlet Princess on August 27th 2021. Devour it in one day and then join me anxiously anticipating the sequel, Tarnished Crown in November 2021.
August 27, 2021
Elle and Robin have done it again!
I LOVED THIS STORY!
Rowan, our heroine, is sassy, brash, fun and brave. I loved how she was constantly getting herself in trouble, and honestly, I was goading her to keep going.
Theo, our hero, was quiet at first, but he's got a wild side that I loved seeing. A true gentleman and totally swoon worthy.
Basically if you vibe with these things: A Scottish historical(esque) setting, family bonds, romance, humor, action, and a bad guy where you're not so sure what's up with him yet, but you're ready to find out more.... you will love this book.
That cliffhanger has left me begging for the next book, so cliff haters beware. (Read it anyway, it's worth it.)
This book was a total delight to read. It kept me on my toes the whole time and I didn't want to put it down. It was well-paced, beautiful (and fun) writing, lush world building, interesting characters, warring countries, political tension, and so much more.
I highly recommend it.
I LOVED THIS STORY!
Rowan, our heroine, is sassy, brash, fun and brave. I loved how she was constantly getting herself in trouble, and honestly, I was goading her to keep going.
Theo, our hero, was quiet at first, but he's got a wild side that I loved seeing. A true gentleman and totally swoon worthy.
Basically if you vibe with these things: A Scottish historical(esque) setting, family bonds, romance, humor, action, and a bad guy where you're not so sure what's up with him yet, but you're ready to find out more.... you will love this book.
That cliffhanger has left me begging for the next book, so cliff haters beware. (Read it anyway, it's worth it.)
This book was a total delight to read. It kept me on my toes the whole time and I didn't want to put it down. It was well-paced, beautiful (and fun) writing, lush world building, interesting characters, warring countries, political tension, and so much more.
I highly recommend it.
March 11, 2024
This book had me literally laughing out loud and turning red with giddiness. I was kicking my feet and the ending had me shook. I immediately want to pick up the next book to see what happens. If you haven’t read it you should!
January 12, 2023
I LOVED THIS BOOK!!!!! It is so underrated and a total must read if you are a fantasy or SJM fan! 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼 it’s like if Brave and SJM got together. Heavy ACOTAR and ToG vibes. So fantastic!!!!! Can’t wait to read book 2! 🥰
May 20, 2024
this was so dragged out
January 9, 2025
so fast paced that i didn’t want to put it down. can’t wait to see where the rest of the series goes
August 30, 2023
★★☆☆☆ 2 stars!
I was intrigued by the premise of this book (and series). Fantasy with 'Brave' vibes? Sign me UP.
I knew going in that this was labeled as YA, and I tend to stick to new adult and adult, but some YA novels have pleasantly surprised me in the past with their overall strong writing styles. YA writing can tend to feel juvenile for me. It's not necessarily about the age of the characters, but rather being able to connect to the writing, the HOW the story is told.
The writing in this novel was OK, but did fall into some classic YA writing style at times. It was a good story overall, and I was planning on picking up the second book in the series, but based on the ending and synopses from future books, it looks like a big old love triangle is coming, which, if you know me, is the easiest way to turn me off from a book. I truly don't know why love triangles (and dead spouse) tropes are my 2 kryptonite, but it is what it is.
So, I don't think this series is for me, but if you enjoy YA fantasy with a love triangle romance, I think it would be worth giving it a chance.
I was intrigued by the premise of this book (and series). Fantasy with 'Brave' vibes? Sign me UP.
I knew going in that this was labeled as YA, and I tend to stick to new adult and adult, but some YA novels have pleasantly surprised me in the past with their overall strong writing styles. YA writing can tend to feel juvenile for me. It's not necessarily about the age of the characters, but rather being able to connect to the writing, the HOW the story is told.
The writing in this novel was OK, but did fall into some classic YA writing style at times. It was a good story overall, and I was planning on picking up the second book in the series, but based on the ending and synopses from future books, it looks like a big old love triangle is coming, which, if you know me, is the easiest way to turn me off from a book. I truly don't know why love triangles (and dead spouse) tropes are my 2 kryptonite, but it is what it is.
So, I don't think this series is for me, but if you enjoy YA fantasy with a love triangle romance, I think it would be worth giving it a chance.
December 18, 2021
I received a copy of this book from Elle and Robin. This is my honest review.
Needless to say. I loved this. I loved it from the very first page, and I wanted to just devour the whole thing in one go!
Elle and Robin have yet to write a book I don’t love. They never disappoint, and you can never predict where the story will go. I thought I knew how this would end, and it almost ended that, until that cliffhanger! Now I’m dead. I’m in the corner crying. I’m not okay.
I was so excited to return to the Lochlann world, and I can’t deny how much I fell in love with Rowan and Theo. Rowan is fearless, she has a big mouth on her, that constantly gets her into trouble, and has a great sense of humour!
I can’t even get over how much I loved this. Every second. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series!
Needless to say. I loved this. I loved it from the very first page, and I wanted to just devour the whole thing in one go!
Elle and Robin have yet to write a book I don’t love. They never disappoint, and you can never predict where the story will go. I thought I knew how this would end, and it almost ended that, until that cliffhanger! Now I’m dead. I’m in the corner crying. I’m not okay.
I was so excited to return to the Lochlann world, and I can’t deny how much I fell in love with Rowan and Theo. Rowan is fearless, she has a big mouth on her, that constantly gets her into trouble, and has a great sense of humour!
I can’t even get over how much I loved this. Every second. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,387 reviews