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The Huntress #1
The Huntress
Betrayed by their allies, the last of the Picts have escaped to the innermost part of an endless, dark forest, content to remain hidden there forever. Made queen at just a child, Cyrene has given all of her life and heart to the task of making sure her people are never terrorized again.
When a handsome stranger from the kingdom that betrayed them falls injured at the boundary of her village, she’s forced to choose between mercy and duty.
The second son of a ruling monarch, Duncan would never be considered for the throne, neither did he wish to be. But when a plague sweeps through the land, he is the only one of royal blood left standing. Returning to the tower that holds too many dark memories, the truth of his father’s tangled reign begins to unravel and Duncan is once again forced into a role he never wanted.
When a handsome stranger from the kingdom that betrayed them falls injured at the boundary of her village, she’s forced to choose between mercy and duty.
The second son of a ruling monarch, Duncan would never be considered for the throne, neither did he wish to be. But when a plague sweeps through the land, he is the only one of royal blood left standing. Returning to the tower that holds too many dark memories, the truth of his father’s tangled reign begins to unravel and Duncan is once again forced into a role he never wanted.
391 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2023
788 people are currently reading
5836 people want to read
About the author
Carrie Cotten
9 books364 followersCarrie is a Louisiana born, Texas transplant and recent North Carolina resident. She earned her BA in English from East Texas Baptist University where she met and fell in love at first sight with her hunky husband, Jeffrey Craig Cotten.
After a short tour in Alaska with the Army, Carrie and Jeff returned to Texas to start a family. Fifteen years and four kids later, they answered God's call to enter the ministry, embarking on a wild adventure that led them to the Appalachian mountains.
When Carrie isn't writing, you can find her cuddling a chicken, petting a pig or snuggling a sheep on their small family farm. She loves the freedom they've found in homeschooling and the unlimited opportunities to explore the mountains. Camping, farming, and watching movies are some of their favorite family activities. Carrie and Jeff serve together at a small church where Jeff is the youth pastor.
Her favorite thing to do is steal a quiet moment to sit on her front porch and take in the most beautiful view she's ever seen in her life.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 301 reviews
February 20, 2025
I was shocked at how much I LOVED this book! I’m so glad I took a chance on something different - it paid off.
What I loved about it:
💚The way I was transported back in time and into the story; this author has amazing skill
💚The beautiful words that danced on the pages; Carrie Cotten writes beautiful sentences!
💚A swoon-worthy male character - Oh my goodness…Duncan.
💚A courageous and determined female character - Cyrene
💚The themes of trust, patience, vengeance, courage, commitment, impossible choices and finding the truth for ourselves rather than relying on someone else’s words.
Quotes I highlighted:
✔️“Vengeance is a choice, Huntress, as is anger and wrath and unforgiveness.”
✔️“Draw deep. Dunna let the darkness steal your courage. The Lord is wi’ us, I ken it to be true.
✔️“Each step he took across the cobblestone floor pounded conviction of his chosen distance further into his heart. But there was also the steadfast call of his Savior, pleading with him to return.”
✔️“I made a promise. I will go wi’ ye. I will fight wi’ ye, die wi’ ye if An T-aon wills. Whatever comes for our people, for those we love, we will face it - together.”
✔️“My mother told me once that when a person has only ever known darkness, their first exposure to light sometimes burns, but once ye be touched by that light - once ye can see when ye had been blind - ‘tis all ye crave.”
✔️“The Lord doesna call us to be cowards.”
Parts that will stay with me for quite some time:
⭐“He might have studied scriptures, but that didn’t mean he lived by them.”
Reminder to walk the talk. Ugh. I needed this.
⭐Raising our eyes and looking for our king
Cyrene reminds herself and others to raise their eyes and look for the King; good spiritual advice
⭐Sometimes, like Duncan, we are put through the ringer in an effort to bring us back to God.
This beautiful redemption story will be at the top of my 2025 reads! I can’t wait for book 2.
What I loved about it:
💚The way I was transported back in time and into the story; this author has amazing skill
💚The beautiful words that danced on the pages; Carrie Cotten writes beautiful sentences!
💚A swoon-worthy male character - Oh my goodness…Duncan.
💚A courageous and determined female character - Cyrene
💚The themes of trust, patience, vengeance, courage, commitment, impossible choices and finding the truth for ourselves rather than relying on someone else’s words.
Quotes I highlighted:
✔️“Vengeance is a choice, Huntress, as is anger and wrath and unforgiveness.”
✔️“Draw deep. Dunna let the darkness steal your courage. The Lord is wi’ us, I ken it to be true.
✔️“Each step he took across the cobblestone floor pounded conviction of his chosen distance further into his heart. But there was also the steadfast call of his Savior, pleading with him to return.”
✔️“I made a promise. I will go wi’ ye. I will fight wi’ ye, die wi’ ye if An T-aon wills. Whatever comes for our people, for those we love, we will face it - together.”
✔️“My mother told me once that when a person has only ever known darkness, their first exposure to light sometimes burns, but once ye be touched by that light - once ye can see when ye had been blind - ‘tis all ye crave.”
✔️“The Lord doesna call us to be cowards.”
Parts that will stay with me for quite some time:
⭐“He might have studied scriptures, but that didn’t mean he lived by them.”
Reminder to walk the talk. Ugh. I needed this.
⭐Raising our eyes and looking for our king
Cyrene reminds herself and others to raise their eyes and look for the King; good spiritual advice
⭐Sometimes, like Duncan, we are put through the ringer in an effort to bring us back to God.
This beautiful redemption story will be at the top of my 2025 reads! I can’t wait for book 2.
December 16, 2023
Honestly, my long-standing TBR cannot stay mad at me when I impulsively jump into an enemies-to-love marriage of convenience, new-to-me-author Kindle Unlimited gamble that so majorly pays off. At this point, it should be understood TBR procrastination sacrifices must be made chasing this top-tier trope combo, especially if it’s Christian fiction and trusted fellow readers are shouting its praises. And, happy to report: 10 out of 10 all across the board from this humble avid reader.
This is outstanding, transporting writing (some lines had me just immediately rereading in befuddlement) with stand-up-and-cheer progression pacing choices and bone-deep characterization arcs. I am obsessed; I buy myself almost zero physical books, and this is the first time I’ve ever felt the urge to buy a copy of something I read on KU just to look at it and hold it and thank it for all the romance reader enjoyment. And, as one that sticks mostly to HEAs that come about in Regency ballrooms or Victorian sitting rooms, I was so happy this gave me everything I could want in trope promises and tension plus some aspects I sometimes feel I’m missing out by not often going back to Medieval times or venturing into romantasy. Like, some actual high stakes warring kingdoms’ enmity, you know? You don’t get that kind of deep-seated, generational mistrust from a cut direct or an unanswered calling card or a marriage that’s convenient because it might lower the chances of whole villages being ravaged. No more FOMOOHSE (Fear of Missing Out on High Stakes Enmity) here. For me, it’s just the perfect amount of grounding in the historical and some spiritual/lore aspects with the romance so absolutely center stage.
And she had me locked down, all-in invested from the prologue. If we’re going to go back and time jump from childhood to get some individual set up, this is how you do it: out of the gate just grab me by the wimple with a taut scene of the intersection of two reluctant, innate leaders facing an unexpected allies marriage as a desperate last resort. With only their kindred mutual understanding of their most elemental motivations to save their people as a tentative bond, when the queen of the woods gets right into the king of stone’s face and lets rip all her misgivings and impotent rage, and he’s all resigned, stoic steadfastness, I was like “See, TBR? This just proves my flighty mood reading is the way to go.” Set up is everything to me, and I was ready to happily follow along anywhere she would take me just with the promise of that first scene. The wariness I still held on to over whether that tension would hold out throughout was unwarranted because, both with the internal and the external conflicts, this does not let up on that push and pull, steps forward, shoves back, not to mention these two have Romanesque-turret-sized hurdles of generations of suspicion to overcome, so tenseness was verra much still there. To only be heightened to the point of “Welp, no recovering from THAT in this remaining percentage”, but then have all the threaded themes, faith journeys and build up to giving in to trust, and, agh, I don’t know how it was done, but, oh, how satisfyingly so.
This is now my favorite Exhibit A on how, if you give me brilliant characterization and progression, palpable tension, and effortless, vivid writing (plus favorite tropes do not hurt), I could read any non-explicit romance subgenre and be just as overenthusiastically engrossed. Off to DM yell at the author that homeschool moms rock, I loved her book and that we’re talking physical need for the next books in this series.
Content notes MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS:
*
*
Married couple fade to black, consummation implied. All very vaguely described: On page violent parent death, children in danger on page, mention of off page sibling death, on page war violence, on page toxic parent.
This is outstanding, transporting writing (some lines had me just immediately rereading in befuddlement) with stand-up-and-cheer progression pacing choices and bone-deep characterization arcs. I am obsessed; I buy myself almost zero physical books, and this is the first time I’ve ever felt the urge to buy a copy of something I read on KU just to look at it and hold it and thank it for all the romance reader enjoyment. And, as one that sticks mostly to HEAs that come about in Regency ballrooms or Victorian sitting rooms, I was so happy this gave me everything I could want in trope promises and tension plus some aspects I sometimes feel I’m missing out by not often going back to Medieval times or venturing into romantasy. Like, some actual high stakes warring kingdoms’ enmity, you know? You don’t get that kind of deep-seated, generational mistrust from a cut direct or an unanswered calling card or a marriage that’s convenient because it might lower the chances of whole villages being ravaged. No more FOMOOHSE (Fear of Missing Out on High Stakes Enmity) here. For me, it’s just the perfect amount of grounding in the historical and some spiritual/lore aspects with the romance so absolutely center stage.
And she had me locked down, all-in invested from the prologue. If we’re going to go back and time jump from childhood to get some individual set up, this is how you do it: out of the gate just grab me by the wimple with a taut scene of the intersection of two reluctant, innate leaders facing an unexpected allies marriage as a desperate last resort. With only their kindred mutual understanding of their most elemental motivations to save their people as a tentative bond, when the queen of the woods gets right into the king of stone’s face and lets rip all her misgivings and impotent rage, and he’s all resigned, stoic steadfastness, I was like “See, TBR? This just proves my flighty mood reading is the way to go.” Set up is everything to me, and I was ready to happily follow along anywhere she would take me just with the promise of that first scene. The wariness I still held on to over whether that tension would hold out throughout was unwarranted because, both with the internal and the external conflicts, this does not let up on that push and pull, steps forward, shoves back, not to mention these two have Romanesque-turret-sized hurdles of generations of suspicion to overcome, so tenseness was verra much still there. To only be heightened to the point of “Welp, no recovering from THAT in this remaining percentage”, but then have all the threaded themes, faith journeys and build up to giving in to trust, and, agh, I don’t know how it was done, but, oh, how satisfyingly so.
This is now my favorite Exhibit A on how, if you give me brilliant characterization and progression, palpable tension, and effortless, vivid writing (plus favorite tropes do not hurt), I could read any non-explicit romance subgenre and be just as overenthusiastically engrossed. Off to DM yell at the author that homeschool moms rock, I loved her book and that we’re talking physical need for the next books in this series.
Content notes MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS:
*
*
Married couple fade to black, consummation implied. All very vaguely described: On page violent parent death, children in danger on page, mention of off page sibling death, on page war violence, on page toxic parent.
June 4, 2025
My Quick Takes:
- 3/5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Language 🤐 none
- Spice ❤️🔥 kisses only
- Content 🤔 themes of war, murder, killing
I really wanted to like this, I know it is well loved and highly recommended by many whose reviews I trust. I can see how readers enjoy and love it.
I'm not going to pick apart a book just to pick it apart, at the end of the day I just couldn't get past some of the world building, writing style, and plot issues I had throughout the narrative. There were a couple scenes that I really enjoyed within the book, but I do not plan to continue on in the series.
For everyone questioning my sanity, if you've been interested in this book, give it a try! I see raving reviews for it all the time, if you like historical/medieval romance, strong faith themes, enemies to lovers and a redemption arc then I hope you enjoy it.
- 3/5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Language 🤐 none
- Spice ❤️🔥 kisses only
- Content 🤔 themes of war, murder, killing
I really wanted to like this, I know it is well loved and highly recommended by many whose reviews I trust. I can see how readers enjoy and love it.
I'm not going to pick apart a book just to pick it apart, at the end of the day I just couldn't get past some of the world building, writing style, and plot issues I had throughout the narrative. There were a couple scenes that I really enjoyed within the book, but I do not plan to continue on in the series.
For everyone questioning my sanity, if you've been interested in this book, give it a try! I see raving reviews for it all the time, if you like historical/medieval romance, strong faith themes, enemies to lovers and a redemption arc then I hope you enjoy it.
December 23, 2025
Reread (original review below): I got an ALC for the audiobook of this book, and let me tell you, it was the best audiobook I have ever listened to!!! The narrators did a fantastic job and they really brought the characters to life!! Their accents are so fitting for the characters and the story! Also I love Duncan's voice! The way he would say m'lady... oh my heart! 😩 And the sound effects!?! The production quality was phenomenal and it felt like listening to a movie! I love the way that the female narrator would narrate Cyrene's POV, and also do all the female voices in Duncan's POV, while the male narrator narrated Duncan's POV and did all the male voices in Cyrene's POV. Usually in audiobooks, the female narrator will just do all the voices in the fmc's POV, and the male narrator would do the same for the mmc (the guy will do female voices in the mmc's POV and the girl will do male voices) I always hated that, so I was so glad to hear the way the voices were done! Not having to listen to a guy try to do a female's voice. 😅
There were some changes made to the audiobook that are not in the physical copy, since it is a revised edition. Initially, I was hesitant if I would like these changes since I'm so in love with this book that I didn't think it needed any. But I actually loved them so much! Yes the book was perfect before, but it got even more perfect somehow! The story is not changed at all, and only improvements were made. There's just a few tweaks and things that were added! Oh and let me tell you, they were so amazing! Cyrene and Duncan's interactions were really brought to the next level. I always loved their romance, but there were some lines that were added that really solidified their relationship as one of my all-time favorites! Their love felt even more real and I was almost brought to tears and some of the things that were said! Truly, it was beautiful. I really hope a physical copy of the revised edition comes out because there are so many things that I NEED to highlight! I'M GENUINELY SO SHOCKED THAT A BOOK THAT WAS SO PHENOMENAL COULD BE MADE EVEN BETTER!
As always, (said it before I'll say it again) the plot, the romance, the characters, the faith content, and literally everything about this book is perfection. Somehow I enjoyed this book even more this time around, and was literally on the edge of my seat, AND IT'S A REREAD I KNOW WHAT HAPPENS!! It's simply that good of a book!
Literally from the bottom of my heart, and with every fiber of my being, please read this book and listen to the audiobook! (yes and. literally do both) It's an absolute masterpiece, and I really hope that we get audiobooks for the rest of this series! I'm beyond grateful to have gotten an ALC for this audiobook and I have never enjoyed an audiobook more than I have this one! I'm already ready to re-listen to it!
Original review: That was amazing! 4⭐
I liked the world it was set in and the plot was very entertaining. I also liked all the characters and I can't wait to read Astrid's book! The faith content was really good and didn't feel out of place. Both of the main characters were Christians and I liked how they didn't become Christians because of each other. They had things they struggled with in their relationship with Christ and they both overcame the struggles in a beautiful way that didn't just involve them being in love with someone that was a Christian (if you get what I'm saying). Also the last chapter was so heartwarming.🥰 I'll definitely be continuing this series!
~content~
🤐Language: none
⚔️Violence: mild/wars and fighting. Some death, murder, and injury but not graphic or descriptive and it's not the main point of the book.
🌶️Spice: none/very vague fade to black on a wedding night; a few kisses, none of the above being inappropriate or overly descriptive.
✝️Faith:strong/both main characters are Christian and God is worshiped in both of their kingdoms.
⚠️other content: child birth scene; no inappropriate details.
POV: duel pov with Cyrene and Duncan 🫶
I received a free copy of this audiobook for an honest review, and all the thoughts and opinions I expressed are completely my own.
There were some changes made to the audiobook that are not in the physical copy, since it is a revised edition. Initially, I was hesitant if I would like these changes since I'm so in love with this book that I didn't think it needed any. But I actually loved them so much! Yes the book was perfect before, but it got even more perfect somehow! The story is not changed at all, and only improvements were made. There's just a few tweaks and things that were added! Oh and let me tell you, they were so amazing! Cyrene and Duncan's interactions were really brought to the next level. I always loved their romance, but there were some lines that were added that really solidified their relationship as one of my all-time favorites! Their love felt even more real and I was almost brought to tears and some of the things that were said! Truly, it was beautiful. I really hope a physical copy of the revised edition comes out because there are so many things that I NEED to highlight! I'M GENUINELY SO SHOCKED THAT A BOOK THAT WAS SO PHENOMENAL COULD BE MADE EVEN BETTER!
As always, (said it before I'll say it again) the plot, the romance, the characters, the faith content, and literally everything about this book is perfection. Somehow I enjoyed this book even more this time around, and was literally on the edge of my seat, AND IT'S A REREAD I KNOW WHAT HAPPENS!! It's simply that good of a book!
Literally from the bottom of my heart, and with every fiber of my being, please read this book and listen to the audiobook! (yes and. literally do both) It's an absolute masterpiece, and I really hope that we get audiobooks for the rest of this series! I'm beyond grateful to have gotten an ALC for this audiobook and I have never enjoyed an audiobook more than I have this one! I'm already ready to re-listen to it!
Original review: That was amazing! 4⭐
I liked the world it was set in and the plot was very entertaining. I also liked all the characters and I can't wait to read Astrid's book! The faith content was really good and didn't feel out of place. Both of the main characters were Christians and I liked how they didn't become Christians because of each other. They had things they struggled with in their relationship with Christ and they both overcame the struggles in a beautiful way that didn't just involve them being in love with someone that was a Christian (if you get what I'm saying). Also the last chapter was so heartwarming.🥰 I'll definitely be continuing this series!
~content~
🤐Language: none
⚔️Violence: mild/wars and fighting. Some death, murder, and injury but not graphic or descriptive and it's not the main point of the book.
🌶️Spice: none/very vague fade to black on a wedding night; a few kisses, none of the above being inappropriate or overly descriptive.
✝️Faith:strong/both main characters are Christian and God is worshiped in both of their kingdoms.
⚠️other content: child birth scene; no inappropriate details.
POV: duel pov with Cyrene and Duncan 🫶
I received a free copy of this audiobook for an honest review, and all the thoughts and opinions I expressed are completely my own.
February 22, 2025
This book has waited impatiently until I could read it and how I wished I read it ages ago!
I was captivated from page one and finished it in less than a day. I could not stop reading!
I loved that Duncan and Cyrene had so much depth of character and facets of who they were. I loved that they were both courageous and loved their people fiercely.
I loved the thread of faith in Christ, the power of prayer and ultimately putting our lives in His hands.
I cannot wait to go devour the rest of the series asap and catch up to everyone else that was smarter to enjoy this series way before me.
Easily a top read and I will not stop singing its praises!
Level 2 non descriptive longer kissing
Zero Swearing
Dual 3rd Person POV
I was captivated from page one and finished it in less than a day. I could not stop reading!
I loved that Duncan and Cyrene had so much depth of character and facets of who they were. I loved that they were both courageous and loved their people fiercely.
I loved the thread of faith in Christ, the power of prayer and ultimately putting our lives in His hands.
I cannot wait to go devour the rest of the series asap and catch up to everyone else that was smarter to enjoy this series way before me.
Easily a top read and I will not stop singing its praises!
Level 2 non descriptive longer kissing
Zero Swearing
Dual 3rd Person POV
October 27, 2023
Masterfully told, The Huntress is immersive and delightful, cementing Carrie Cotten's reputation as a skilled storyteller who rightly divides the word of truth.
May 23, 2024
4.5 stars
I love when a book captures my full attention with its prologue. And this book definitely did that. With enemies to lovers between a reluctant king and a warrior queen, this book did not disappoint.
𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒏𝒐 𝒕𝒓𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒅 𝒃𝒆𝒕𝒘𝒆𝒆𝒏 𝒉𝒆𝒓, 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒒𝒖𝒆𝒆𝒏 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒐𝒐𝒅𝒔, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒉𝒊𝒎, 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒕𝒐𝒘𝒆𝒓.
Cyrene and Duncan have reasons to hate each other. Their families have a tragic past that’s intertwined, but neither knows the full story of what really happened so many years ago. When these two are forced together to defeat a common enemy, magic happens!
𝑵𝒐 𝒎𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒉𝒐𝒘 𝒅𝒆𝒍𝒊𝒄𝒂𝒕𝒆 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒃𝒆𝒂𝒖𝒕𝒚, 𝒔𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒆𝒓 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒑𝒆𝒐𝒑𝒍𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒑𝒐𝒏𝒔𝒊𝒃𝒍𝒆 𝒇𝒐���� 𝒓𝒊𝒑𝒑𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒅𝒐𝒎 𝒂𝒑𝒂𝒓𝒕 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒅𝒆𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒐𝒚𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒉𝒊𝒎 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒈𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒇.
Cyrene and Duncan both had great character growth. As they learn the truth about the past, they must set aside their hatred and resentment. With their enemy charging in, they must join together and fight. There were some epic battle sequences!
I also really enjoyed the faith elements and how scripture was woven throughout.
This book sets up nicely for book 2 and I can’t wait to read it soon!
📖
🔥 kissing, implied intimacy between a married couple
🤬 none
❓mild violence
I love when a book captures my full attention with its prologue. And this book definitely did that. With enemies to lovers between a reluctant king and a warrior queen, this book did not disappoint.
𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒏𝒐 𝒕𝒓𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒅 𝒃𝒆𝒕𝒘𝒆𝒆𝒏 𝒉𝒆𝒓, 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒒𝒖𝒆𝒆𝒏 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒐𝒐𝒅𝒔, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒉𝒊𝒎, 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒕𝒐𝒘𝒆𝒓.
Cyrene and Duncan have reasons to hate each other. Their families have a tragic past that’s intertwined, but neither knows the full story of what really happened so many years ago. When these two are forced together to defeat a common enemy, magic happens!
𝑵𝒐 𝒎𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒉𝒐𝒘 𝒅𝒆𝒍𝒊𝒄𝒂𝒕𝒆 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒃𝒆𝒂𝒖𝒕𝒚, 𝒔𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒆𝒓 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒑𝒆𝒐𝒑𝒍𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒑𝒐𝒏𝒔𝒊𝒃𝒍𝒆 𝒇𝒐���� 𝒓𝒊𝒑𝒑𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒅𝒐𝒎 𝒂𝒑𝒂𝒓𝒕 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒅𝒆𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒐𝒚𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒉𝒊𝒎 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒈𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒇.
Cyrene and Duncan both had great character growth. As they learn the truth about the past, they must set aside their hatred and resentment. With their enemy charging in, they must join together and fight. There were some epic battle sequences!
I also really enjoyed the faith elements and how scripture was woven throughout.
This book sets up nicely for book 2 and I can’t wait to read it soon!
📖
🔥 kissing, implied intimacy between a married couple
🤬 none
❓mild violence
December 14, 2025
"𝑭𝒐𝒓 𝒎𝒂𝒏𝒚 𝒚𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒔, 𝑰 𝒘𝒊𝒔𝒉𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒎𝒚 𝒒𝒖𝒆𝒔𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒔𝒘𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒅. 𝑰 𝒘𝒊𝒔𝒉𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒌𝒆𝒏 𝒘𝒉𝒚 𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒍𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒔 𝒉𝒂𝒅 𝒃𝒆𝒆𝒏 𝒔𝒐 𝒕𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒃𝒍𝒆𝒅. 𝑰𝒕 𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒔𝒖𝒎𝒆𝒅 𝒎𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒔𝒕𝒐𝒍𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒋𝒐𝒚 𝑰 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒔𝒉𝒂𝒓𝒆𝒅 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝑨𝒏-𝑻-𝒂𝒐𝒏. 𝑴𝒂𝒚𝒉𝒂𝒑 𝒘𝒆 𝒅𝒖𝒏𝒏𝒂 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒔𝒘𝒆𝒓𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒌𝒆𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝑨𝒏-𝑻-𝒂𝒐𝒏 𝒊𝒔 𝒈𝒐𝒐𝒅...𝑴𝒂𝒚𝒉𝒂𝒑 𝒘𝒆 𝒄𝒂𝒏 𝒋𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒕𝒓𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒉𝒆 𝒊𝒔. 𝑾𝒆 𝒄𝒂𝒏 𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒐𝒘 𝒉𝒊𝒎 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆 𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒇𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒏𝒅 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒈𝒊𝒗𝒆 𝒖𝒔 𝒍𝒊𝒇𝒆, 𝒃𝒐𝒕𝒉 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒆𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒏𝒊𝒕𝒚."
I've not always been a huge fan of Scottish books, but this one completely won me over. Scottish medieval with the best quotes and spiritual aspects, what more could you want? 😍
My heart just broke so many times throughout this book, all the hurt and loss and confusion and battles...but it was all worth it for that amazing story. 🩷
As I've mentioned before, I'm never a fan of the marriage of convenience trope, but this was written so well with it, I just loved it. This was the perfect reminder to stay close to those you love, especially when life can be too short. 🩷
A clean, action-packed medieval book I highly recommend!
*I received an e-copy for review, all opinions are my own
I've not always been a huge fan of Scottish books, but this one completely won me over. Scottish medieval with the best quotes and spiritual aspects, what more could you want? 😍
My heart just broke so many times throughout this book, all the hurt and loss and confusion and battles...but it was all worth it for that amazing story. 🩷
As I've mentioned before, I'm never a fan of the marriage of convenience trope, but this was written so well with it, I just loved it. This was the perfect reminder to stay close to those you love, especially when life can be too short. 🩷
A clean, action-packed medieval book I highly recommend!
*I received an e-copy for review, all opinions are my own
December 13, 2025
Title: The Huntress
Author: Carrie Cotten
Genre: Historical Fiction
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Synopsis: “She was as wild and untamed as the woods in which she rules, as the seas on stormy tides. A sudden desperate need to keep that fierce wildness, to protect it and cherish it, filled his heart with such force, it ached.” The Dorcha has long been known as a forest of darkness ruled by a fierce and formidable queen that the Tower King has long avoided. Queen Cyrene keeps her woods safe from the betrayal and destruction that marks her past because she’s always been told never to trust the Tower King. But when word of Norse attack comes knocking on the walls, King Duncan finds himself seeking alliance and rides into the forest for help only to be intercepted by this mysterious Huntress. In a desperate attempt to survive, Duncan and Cyrene enter the only alliance that could possibly save their people. As the two prepare for battle, their trust is tested as one question remains: can they really survive to see tomorrow?
Analysis: If I could go back in time and move this book up on my TBR, I 100% would. I have no idea why I waited so long to read it. The writing is beautiful, and the unique medieval history drew me in from the very first chapter! The characters are bold and courageous but also face the conflicts of their past and questions of where their faith and trust really lies. This book is rich in gospel themes of forgiveness, faith, and redemption. And the romance is perfect! There really wasn’t a slow moment for me. The plot is absolutely brilliant. As for the ending, you just need to set aside a couple hours so you can finish it in one sitting. The fierce battle scenes and gripping storyline will have you wanting to do nothing else! I LOVED this book; it will easily be one of my favorites from this year. So if you need me, you’ll find me racing to my kindle to grab book 2!
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Author: Carrie Cotten
Genre: Historical Fiction
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Synopsis: “She was as wild and untamed as the woods in which she rules, as the seas on stormy tides. A sudden desperate need to keep that fierce wildness, to protect it and cherish it, filled his heart with such force, it ached.” The Dorcha has long been known as a forest of darkness ruled by a fierce and formidable queen that the Tower King has long avoided. Queen Cyrene keeps her woods safe from the betrayal and destruction that marks her past because she’s always been told never to trust the Tower King. But when word of Norse attack comes knocking on the walls, King Duncan finds himself seeking alliance and rides into the forest for help only to be intercepted by this mysterious Huntress. In a desperate attempt to survive, Duncan and Cyrene enter the only alliance that could possibly save their people. As the two prepare for battle, their trust is tested as one question remains: can they really survive to see tomorrow?
Analysis: If I could go back in time and move this book up on my TBR, I 100% would. I have no idea why I waited so long to read it. The writing is beautiful, and the unique medieval history drew me in from the very first chapter! The characters are bold and courageous but also face the conflicts of their past and questions of where their faith and trust really lies. This book is rich in gospel themes of forgiveness, faith, and redemption. And the romance is perfect! There really wasn’t a slow moment for me. The plot is absolutely brilliant. As for the ending, you just need to set aside a couple hours so you can finish it in one sitting. The fierce battle scenes and gripping storyline will have you wanting to do nothing else! I LOVED this book; it will easily be one of my favorites from this year. So if you need me, you’ll find me racing to my kindle to grab book 2!
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
November 1, 2024
I was so so so so excited to read this book. I followed the author on Instagram and had been debating whether or not to just give in and buy this gorgeous book when my mom sent me the reel of this series-and that was it. That was my last straw. My deciding factor! I bought the book and started it the next day once it arrived!
I liked the beginning, I read and read and read...and read....and read
It just got so boring. Once Duncan was introduced it just kind of...plummeted. It was flat. It was forced. The romance was flaky and way too quick, there was no build up whatsoever. It just felt like a flavorless mess. But oh my I loved how Jesus was so loved and worshipped and mentioned in this book so much. Without that fact it wouldve been a one star from me.
Im sad to say this was disappointing, but the writing style was wonderful. I hated the writing of the accent. It was hot to imagine their husky voices but definitely not fun to read...I did love how Duncan called her ''bonnie'' so many times, it was sooo precious. But I swear if I ever read or hear 'mayhap' again-I'll tear my hair out.
I liked the beginning, I read and read and read...and read....and read
It just got so boring. Once Duncan was introduced it just kind of...plummeted. It was flat. It was forced. The romance was flaky and way too quick, there was no build up whatsoever. It just felt like a flavorless mess. But oh my I loved how Jesus was so loved and worshipped and mentioned in this book so much. Without that fact it wouldve been a one star from me.
Im sad to say this was disappointing, but the writing style was wonderful. I hated the writing of the accent. It was hot to imagine their husky voices but definitely not fun to read...I did love how Duncan called her ''bonnie'' so many times, it was sooo precious. But I swear if I ever read or hear 'mayhap' again-I'll tear my hair out.
November 20, 2023
This medieval historical has a fantasy-esque quality to it that introduces the reader to a powerful cast of characters in a fractured, war torn land. I loved the slow burn enemies-to-lovers romance, and the dialogue was expertly written to feel immersive without being hard to understand. Cyrene’s life has held much loss, but in laying down her life to lead her people, she has found courage and even joy. Duncan is a reluctant leader, truly using his power to serve rather than rule. You’ll love spending time with all of this intriguing cast of characters. Looking forward to book 2!
April 29, 2025
I really enjoyed this medieval era story. I couldn't put it down and finished it in one day! it was so good.
May 13, 2025
This Medieval Christian romance is an example of beautiful and captivating writing. The characters are well developed, the romance is a slow build, and the faith themes are woven in seamlessly. I really enjoyed it! The biblical truths sprinkled throughout were fantastic.
Content: Fade to black (implied, no details), death of loved ones, childbirth/child loss, injuries, war time violence
Content: Fade to black (implied, no details), death of loved ones, childbirth/child loss, injuries, war time violence
November 9, 2025
Incredible.
Carrie Cotten wrote a masterpiece. Breathtaking, swoony, and action packed. I absolutely cannot wait to read the rest of this series!
Carrie Cotten wrote a masterpiece. Breathtaking, swoony, and action packed. I absolutely cannot wait to read the rest of this series!
May 6, 2025
I have actually no words
January 25, 2025
This is a new author for me, and I have to say I love her writing style. Lyrical and emotional, with beautiful prose. You really grow to care for these characters and their people. I liked that it was fictitious but based on some history, with a little bit of a supernatural element to it that leans heavily on Christianity. I love finding Christian authors who write well!
September 11, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
This was SO beautiful! A fantastic story!!! DUNCAN 😩🫶🏼
My only problem was the pace and some of the plot twists that landed weird for me.
This was SO beautiful! A fantastic story!!! DUNCAN 😩🫶🏼
My only problem was the pace and some of the plot twists that landed weird for me.
February 19, 2025
I will be honest: I was pretty uncomfortable with the way paganism was romanticized in this Christian novel. And also uncomfortable with the fact that Christ seemed to be set aside in deference to the pagan version of God. I understand (or I think I do) what the author was trying to do, but it really did not sit right with me. Would probably have been less bothered if the book were not billed as a Christian novel, but anyway. I did really enjoy the characters. Most of them. Cyrene is one of those heroines I tend to roll my eyes at, and there's a chunk in the last 3/4 of the novel where she devolves into something completely unbearable. I mean *just completely.* I almost dropped the novel at 84% because she was so annoying. The situation felt like a regurgitated plot device, to be honest, and not at all true to her character. I'm glad she got a full arc, though, even though I didn't always love her. Duncan is <3 <3 <3 <3, though, and I loved the side characters so so much; I am about to start reading the next book just for their sake.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 11, 2025
This is an imaginary tale, possibly inspired by what little history is known of the conflicts in the 820s with the Vikings as they invaded the northern British Isles. The author makes no claim to historical veracity.
This is a tale of passion, patriotism, and vows of the heart that bind us in darkness. It reflects the desperation of the peoples of that era as they were invaded, conquered and enslaved by Vikings and neighboring tribes. Angry bitterness can lead to vengeance, which, in turn, can make one even darker than the enemy one despises.
While this is the story of a man and a woman, a king and a queen, of two enemy peoples, it is also a story of faith, redemption and hope. The author was not glib in developing her characters. They suffered, battled inner demons of distrust, hostility and hatred. They wrestled with their faith. There is no fairytale moment where two sweethearts join hands and live happily ever after. As a result, the faith that pervades this is nitty gritty real. It’s a story that will linger with you.
This is a tale of passion, patriotism, and vows of the heart that bind us in darkness. It reflects the desperation of the peoples of that era as they were invaded, conquered and enslaved by Vikings and neighboring tribes. Angry bitterness can lead to vengeance, which, in turn, can make one even darker than the enemy one despises.
While this is the story of a man and a woman, a king and a queen, of two enemy peoples, it is also a story of faith, redemption and hope. The author was not glib in developing her characters. They suffered, battled inner demons of distrust, hostility and hatred. They wrestled with their faith. There is no fairytale moment where two sweethearts join hands and live happily ever after. As a result, the faith that pervades this is nitty gritty real. It’s a story that will linger with you.
November 20, 2023
Full disclosure: I signed up for an arc of this because I thought the blurb had the word “fantasy” in it. I do not know how I misread that, but this is not a historical fantasy just in case you were wondering 😆
That being said, I did really enjoy this! Historical fiction is a genre I used to read a lot of, but have moved away from in recent years. This one was well-done, with a great setting, likable characters, plenty of conflict (assassination! Betrayal! Invasions!), fierce lady warriors, a slow-burn enemies to lovers romance, and a strong theme of faith in God.
I really liked the main characters, Cyrene and Duncan, and their journey together. I’m definitely going to read the next book—I need more of Astrid!
I highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys medieval history and Christian fiction.
Content: war/battle (boring to me, but not gory imo), kisses & implied off-page consummation of a marriage.
That being said, I did really enjoy this! Historical fiction is a genre I used to read a lot of, but have moved away from in recent years. This one was well-done, with a great setting, likable characters, plenty of conflict (assassination! Betrayal! Invasions!), fierce lady warriors, a slow-burn enemies to lovers romance, and a strong theme of faith in God.
I really liked the main characters, Cyrene and Duncan, and their journey together. I’m definitely going to read the next book—I need more of Astrid!
I highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys medieval history and Christian fiction.
Content: war/battle (boring to me, but not gory imo), kisses & implied off-page consummation of a marriage.
June 6, 2024
WOW! I never thought I’d be so invested in medieval Scotland kingdoms, but here we are!
This book is a TRUE enemies to lovers. Duncan and Cyrene both selflessly love their kingdoms and would do anything to protect them. Which they prove time and time again.
I loved the faith in this book and how naturally it unfolded through each page. The friendships with side characters were the perfect addition to the depth of the story as well as the budding animosity to love between the two kingdom’s captains.
There were some major twists that added even more to the already deep plot. Once I got into this story I never wanted to put it down. Action, romance, faith, battles, betrayal, royalty, secrets, The Huntress has it all.
If you’re in the market for a faith-filled Christian romance based in medieval Scotland, pick up The Huntress and dive into the story with Duncan and Cyrene!
This book is a TRUE enemies to lovers. Duncan and Cyrene both selflessly love their kingdoms and would do anything to protect them. Which they prove time and time again.
I loved the faith in this book and how naturally it unfolded through each page. The friendships with side characters were the perfect addition to the depth of the story as well as the budding animosity to love between the two kingdom’s captains.
There were some major twists that added even more to the already deep plot. Once I got into this story I never wanted to put it down. Action, romance, faith, battles, betrayal, royalty, secrets, The Huntress has it all.
If you’re in the market for a faith-filled Christian romance based in medieval Scotland, pick up The Huntress and dive into the story with Duncan and Cyrene!
November 27, 2023
Incredible
I loved Huntress! The slow burn between Duncan and Cyrene was beautiful. The story of faith practiced to faith becoming authentic was lovely. I'd recommend this to fans of LOTR, Tamara Leigh, or Jody Hedlund's Knights of Brethren
I loved Huntress! The slow burn between Duncan and Cyrene was beautiful. The story of faith practiced to faith becoming authentic was lovely. I'd recommend this to fans of LOTR, Tamara Leigh, or Jody Hedlund's Knights of Brethren
January 6, 2024
This book is a masterpiece! Every scene, every sentence served a purpose. Not a single thing pulled me out of this beautiful, intricately woven story. It is my new favorite historical novel.
There is one fade to black scene between a married couple, but it is closed door and resectful, and key to the plot. I wouldn't recommend to young teens. It is targeted at adult Christians.
I loved the use of Scripture in this book. It moved my heart deeply. And it was FILLED with Scripture! In a handful of books that use a lot of Scripture, the use of Scripture can sometimes feel out of place or forced, but in this book, it was always perfectly placed and made me hunger even more for the Word.
There are many bloody battles in this book, but nothing gratuitous. There is heartbreak and healing.
I highly recommend to any lovers of Medieval fiction, Scottish fiction, and even those who enjoy Fantasy, as the historical setting here is similar to many of the settings that inspire fantasy. It even felt a little like low fantasy (because of the special "marks" certain characters receive).
There is one fade to black scene between a married couple, but it is closed door and resectful, and key to the plot. I wouldn't recommend to young teens. It is targeted at adult Christians.
I loved the use of Scripture in this book. It moved my heart deeply. And it was FILLED with Scripture! In a handful of books that use a lot of Scripture, the use of Scripture can sometimes feel out of place or forced, but in this book, it was always perfectly placed and made me hunger even more for the Word.
There are many bloody battles in this book, but nothing gratuitous. There is heartbreak and healing.
I highly recommend to any lovers of Medieval fiction, Scottish fiction, and even those who enjoy Fantasy, as the historical setting here is similar to many of the settings that inspire fantasy. It even felt a little like low fantasy (because of the special "marks" certain characters receive).
May 1, 2024
“I promise I willna leave ye.”
“The world can wait.”
“I’m going to kiss ye now.”
Those three phrases. 🫠🫠🫠
If you haven’t read Carrie Cotton’s The Huntress yet… you’re missing out.
I’ve always been a sucker for marriage of convenience. But this one… ooooh!
I was invested from the start. I had to know what would happen next. All the complex relationships. The deep story line, along with the backstory on Cyrene’s mother. The focus on faith. It was all woven together like an intricate tapestry.
The wedding vows 🥵
The battle scenes ⚔️
The landscape and setting ⛰️
“This beautiful world wasn’t created for death; it was created for life. But it was broken. Everything was broken. She thought mayhap beauty still remained, but it was so mingled with ashes, she could only ever see the gray.”
“Father Malcolm reminded him that though he may wander far from God, God would never wander far from him.”
“The world can wait.”
“I’m going to kiss ye now.”
Those three phrases. 🫠🫠🫠
If you haven’t read Carrie Cotton’s The Huntress yet… you’re missing out.
I’ve always been a sucker for marriage of convenience. But this one… ooooh!
I was invested from the start. I had to know what would happen next. All the complex relationships. The deep story line, along with the backstory on Cyrene’s mother. The focus on faith. It was all woven together like an intricate tapestry.
The wedding vows 🥵
The battle scenes ⚔️
The landscape and setting ⛰️
“This beautiful world wasn’t created for death; it was created for life. But it was broken. Everything was broken. She thought mayhap beauty still remained, but it was so mingled with ashes, she could only ever see the gray.”
“Father Malcolm reminded him that though he may wander far from God, God would never wander far from him.”
August 6, 2025
This is my first medieval historic fiction book. I can’t recommend it enough! I have become one with the world @authorcarriecotten has created & have no desire to leave it anytime soon.
Her personification creates a richness in depth to her story that reaches out and grabs you and pulls you deep into the middle of the tale.
I cannot say enough good things about this book except go out and buy it today and you will not regret it!
Her personification creates a richness in depth to her story that reaches out and grabs you and pulls you deep into the middle of the tale.
I cannot say enough good things about this book except go out and buy it today and you will not regret it!
December 10, 2025
3.75🌟
The huntress
By Carrie Cotten
The huntress: 1
I was so excited to read this book!!
And don't worry, I enjoyed it😊
The way they spoke to each other did threw me off a bit.
But other than that. The faith aspect, the characters, the setting. I loved it all!❤️
The plot was a bit too predictable for me.
Also, the e-book version has drawings😱😍
* death of parents
* talk about enslavement
* war
The huntress
By Carrie Cotten
The huntress: 1
I was so excited to read this book!!
And don't worry, I enjoyed it😊
The way they spoke to each other did threw me off a bit.
But other than that. The faith aspect, the characters, the setting. I loved it all!❤️
The plot was a bit too predictable for me.
Also, the e-book version has drawings😱😍
* death of parents
* talk about enslavement
* war
![Profile Image for Jacquelyn 💐 {This Rapunzel Reads} [Jesus Christ, my Living Hope].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1766269624i%2F169222098._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
May 23, 2025
Hmm…it’s hard to put all my thoughts into one place for this book. I really wanted to love it since I had heard great things about it. But I just didn’t. I felt like it was lacking in certain areas and was missing pieces.
👑 First, the writing and wording is hard to follow and understand. I had to reread several sentences just to understand what was being said. It became annoying especially with how they talked, but that could just be me. 🤷🏼♀️
👑 Second, Duncan and Cyrene…I get why they got married and I was intrigued to see how it turned out. But it was kinda weird and felt off especially their wedding night. They hated each other and then suddenly there was this complete one eighty and they loved each other. It didn’t feel like it was fully developed and I couldn’t really see that they actually loved each other. I wanted to see them overcome their hate and really fall in love with each other. Also, Cyrene was so mean to him a lot of the times and I didn’t really like her as a character. Overall, it wasn’t the best marriage of convenience that I’ve read and it had potential!
👑 Third, I know it was during the medieval times period which is why there was a lot of fighting. But that seemed to be all that they did. There was a lot of killing and murdering. I felt like I was confused most of the book on what on earth was happening. But that could just be me.
👑 Fourth, the time jumps were really confusing and felt a bit strange. I kept having to look back and like where in the world are we or whose POV is this? I felt like it could have been done better with less jumping around.
👑 With that being said, they are some things that I did like and that’s what kept it at three stars. First, the cover is beautiful and the attention to detail is amazing! I don’t have a lot of green books on my shelf.
👑 Second, the faith content was good even if it was a bit confusing with the different name for God and the way they described things. But I didn’t like how the paganism seemed to be mixed in with Christianity. I don’t think that was the author’s intent, but that’s what it came off as. I think there should have been some more depth to them turning away from that and towards Christianity.
👑 Third, I was intrigued and wanted to see what happened next, but that didn’t happen until halfway through the book.
👑 Fourth, I did like Astrid! She was a character and made me grin or laugh in certain occasions.
Perhaps, I’ll come back to this book in a couple years and reread it. But I don’t really have any desire to read the rest of the series as of right now. If you loved and enjoyed it, that’s great!
👑 First, the writing and wording is hard to follow and understand. I had to reread several sentences just to understand what was being said. It became annoying especially with how they talked, but that could just be me. 🤷🏼♀️
👑 Second, Duncan and Cyrene…I get why they got married and I was intrigued to see how it turned out. But it was kinda weird and felt off especially their wedding night. They hated each other and then suddenly there was this complete one eighty and they loved each other. It didn’t feel like it was fully developed and I couldn’t really see that they actually loved each other. I wanted to see them overcome their hate and really fall in love with each other. Also, Cyrene was so mean to him a lot of the times and I didn’t really like her as a character. Overall, it wasn’t the best marriage of convenience that I’ve read and it had potential!
👑 Third, I know it was during the medieval times period which is why there was a lot of fighting. But that seemed to be all that they did. There was a lot of killing and murdering. I felt like I was confused most of the book on what on earth was happening. But that could just be me.
👑 Fourth, the time jumps were really confusing and felt a bit strange. I kept having to look back and like where in the world are we or whose POV is this? I felt like it could have been done better with less jumping around.
👑 With that being said, they are some things that I did like and that’s what kept it at three stars. First, the cover is beautiful and the attention to detail is amazing! I don’t have a lot of green books on my shelf.
👑 Second, the faith content was good even if it was a bit confusing with the different name for God and the way they described things. But I didn’t like how the paganism seemed to be mixed in with Christianity. I don’t think that was the author’s intent, but that’s what it came off as. I think there should have been some more depth to them turning away from that and towards Christianity.
👑 Third, I was intrigued and wanted to see what happened next, but that didn’t happen until halfway through the book.
👑 Fourth, I did like Astrid! She was a character and made me grin or laugh in certain occasions.
Perhaps, I’ll come back to this book in a couple years and reread it. But I don’t really have any desire to read the rest of the series as of right now. If you loved and enjoyed it, that’s great!
January 12, 2025
Oh my word! Why did I wait for so long to read this story? It had every possible element I could want in a viking story! Expect lots of exclamation points in this review.
I feel like the author really captured the essence of the viking world! First there's Cyrene, a young girl who becomes a queen as an adolescent girl. She then strives to take care of those who have no one else and builds her "kingdom." And then there's Duncan, who is set to not be a king, but to live a quiet life, except his father and older brother die and he's immediately thrust into a role he doesn't want.
The threat of his cousin overthrowing him, he rushes into the forest where he comes face to face with a little girl from his past who is now grown and deciding his fate. Oooo lemme tell you, the tension between these two rulers will have you quickly turning the page! Their distrust of each other and hatred for what's happened in the past threatens to take them down.
But God...
He plays such a vital role in this story! Cyrene would love to exact her vengeance, but the Lord calls her to mercy. Duncan believes the queen and her people to be pagans who only know how to do evil, except they're healing him. I loved how this thread of faith all played into the story! We see the battle between doing what He calls us to do and giving into the flesh, be it anger, retaliation, etc.
We can't forget the supporting characters in this story. First are Astrid and Revna. These two, along with Cyrene are forces to be reckoned with! Do you ever want to imagine yourself in a story and wonder what you might be like? I would love to see myself as one of these fiercely loyal women! When they're in protect mode, people beware! Second is Eowin, Duncan's closest friend. Both of these men are men of honor and only want to protect their people. The solution to to both Cyrene & Duncan's problem has them putting aside assumptions (at least occasionally) and rallying their people to battle their common enemy!
This story had me blazing a trail and thinking about it when I wasn't reading it. I can't wait to get back to everyone I've grown to love in book two!
I feel like the author really captured the essence of the viking world! First there's Cyrene, a young girl who becomes a queen as an adolescent girl. She then strives to take care of those who have no one else and builds her "kingdom." And then there's Duncan, who is set to not be a king, but to live a quiet life, except his father and older brother die and he's immediately thrust into a role he doesn't want.
The threat of his cousin overthrowing him, he rushes into the forest where he comes face to face with a little girl from his past who is now grown and deciding his fate. Oooo lemme tell you, the tension between these two rulers will have you quickly turning the page! Their distrust of each other and hatred for what's happened in the past threatens to take them down.
But God...
He plays such a vital role in this story! Cyrene would love to exact her vengeance, but the Lord calls her to mercy. Duncan believes the queen and her people to be pagans who only know how to do evil, except they're healing him. I loved how this thread of faith all played into the story! We see the battle between doing what He calls us to do and giving into the flesh, be it anger, retaliation, etc.
We can't forget the supporting characters in this story. First are Astrid and Revna. These two, along with Cyrene are forces to be reckoned with! Do you ever want to imagine yourself in a story and wonder what you might be like? I would love to see myself as one of these fiercely loyal women! When they're in protect mode, people beware! Second is Eowin, Duncan's closest friend. Both of these men are men of honor and only want to protect their people. The solution to to both Cyrene & Duncan's problem has them putting aside assumptions (at least occasionally) and rallying their people to battle their common enemy!
This story had me blazing a trail and thinking about it when I wasn't reading it. I can't wait to get back to everyone I've grown to love in book two!
September 25, 2025
I’ve heard nothing but wonderful things about The Huntress and the books that follow it. And I’ve heard those things from many different fronts, from readers who read primarily Christian contemporary romance, or historical romance, or romantic suspense, or fantasy. This series is outside of many of my friends’ typical genres of choice, and yet they are passionate about their love for it. After reading it for myself, I can see why. It’s not often that I am actually shocked by how excellent something is, but that’s how I felt about this book. From the prose to the pacing, the characters to the setting, the plot to the faith, The Huntress exceeded my already high expectations in every way imaginable.
The prose is lovely, even though the dialogue—which felt very Scottish—took some getting used to. But that dialogue choice underscored and deepened the strong sense of place. This series is almost medieval fantasy, but it’s not quite. Instead, it’s something entirely its own. We have a hidden kingdom of Picts imbedded in the real Scotland of 800s AD. That setting combined with the lush beauty of the writing made every aspect of this story feel timeless, classic, and romantic. The story begins with a tense prologue followed by a jump back in time. The first chapter was such a quaint and then suddenly traumatic beginning, bringing to mind the opening scenes of Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire.
Our main characters are Cyrene and Duncan. In the beginning, both have siblings they love who are meant to take their parents’ respective thrones. They come from neighboring but opposing kingdoms, once joined in marriage and now split over that marriage betrayed, a mother murdered and her twin daughters vanished. Cyrene is a preternaturally accurate archer, lending her the title Huntress. Her aim, and the distance at which she can maintain her accuracy, is mind-boggling, and serves as the main almost fantastical element in the story. Different tragedies bring Cyrene and Duncan to their thrones in some of the darkest days their peoples have ever faced. When Vikings begin to strike, stealing away their women and children, the two make an impossible choice: bind themselves to one another in hopes of giving their people better odds against their shared enemy.
Marriage of convenience is too weak a term for the union between Cyrene and Duncan. This is more of a marriage of necessity, an uneasy truce between enemies so that their kingdoms might band together against a greater foe. But there is still a deep lack of trust between the two, rooted in the war between past generations. The slow building of trust in their relationship was lovely, as was the faithfulness of each to their word.
The battle scenes were absolutely phenomenal. As someone who has read a ton of popular fantasy series in the general market, I've experienced my fair share of excellently portrayed as well as subpar battlefield scenes. Those in this book, especially the chapters-long final battle, were among the best I've read. Which shocked me. Elements of these scenes were every bit as epic and tense and brilliantly portrayed as a Malazan novel, or something from Sanderson or Gywnne, Abercrombie or Martin. I was insanely impressed.
One of my favorite aspects of the story was Cotten’s presentation of faith. Christianity was so vital, blatant, and strong in these pages. Both characters wrestled mightily with their shared beliefs, with raw questions and shaky personal faith. One of the core themes here was learning to trust God and believe in His goodness even when the darkness of the world around you tries to convince you of the contrary. The struggles both perspective characters had with God felt so incredibly honest. I found myself weeping over the last chapter of the book. It ended on such a beautiful note of healing and hope that my heart wasn’t big enough to contain it.
There were some great side characters here, especially among Cyrene’s inner circle. I’m so excited to get more of Astrid and Revna's stories in the second and third installments in the series. I found Revna especially fascinating. She reminded me of characters like Arya Stark, or X-23, or Nona from Mark Lawrence's Book of the Ancestor. She is terror and death in a young female body, but she uses her powers for good, to protect and free those who cannot protect or free themselves.
I loved every single thing about The Huntress. This will definitely be one of my favorite books of 2025. It’s the kind of story that sweeps you away, that grips your mind and heart long after the final pages have been read. I’m so excited to continue the series, to see where Cotten brings these characters with whom I fell in love so quickly. If you’re looking for a story that will transport you, that will make you laugh and cry and think and have you on the edge of your seat, this is the book for you.
The prose is lovely, even though the dialogue—which felt very Scottish—took some getting used to. But that dialogue choice underscored and deepened the strong sense of place. This series is almost medieval fantasy, but it’s not quite. Instead, it’s something entirely its own. We have a hidden kingdom of Picts imbedded in the real Scotland of 800s AD. That setting combined with the lush beauty of the writing made every aspect of this story feel timeless, classic, and romantic. The story begins with a tense prologue followed by a jump back in time. The first chapter was such a quaint and then suddenly traumatic beginning, bringing to mind the opening scenes of Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire.
Our main characters are Cyrene and Duncan. In the beginning, both have siblings they love who are meant to take their parents’ respective thrones. They come from neighboring but opposing kingdoms, once joined in marriage and now split over that marriage betrayed, a mother murdered and her twin daughters vanished. Cyrene is a preternaturally accurate archer, lending her the title Huntress. Her aim, and the distance at which she can maintain her accuracy, is mind-boggling, and serves as the main almost fantastical element in the story. Different tragedies bring Cyrene and Duncan to their thrones in some of the darkest days their peoples have ever faced. When Vikings begin to strike, stealing away their women and children, the two make an impossible choice: bind themselves to one another in hopes of giving their people better odds against their shared enemy.
Marriage of convenience is too weak a term for the union between Cyrene and Duncan. This is more of a marriage of necessity, an uneasy truce between enemies so that their kingdoms might band together against a greater foe. But there is still a deep lack of trust between the two, rooted in the war between past generations. The slow building of trust in their relationship was lovely, as was the faithfulness of each to their word.
The battle scenes were absolutely phenomenal. As someone who has read a ton of popular fantasy series in the general market, I've experienced my fair share of excellently portrayed as well as subpar battlefield scenes. Those in this book, especially the chapters-long final battle, were among the best I've read. Which shocked me. Elements of these scenes were every bit as epic and tense and brilliantly portrayed as a Malazan novel, or something from Sanderson or Gywnne, Abercrombie or Martin. I was insanely impressed.
One of my favorite aspects of the story was Cotten’s presentation of faith. Christianity was so vital, blatant, and strong in these pages. Both characters wrestled mightily with their shared beliefs, with raw questions and shaky personal faith. One of the core themes here was learning to trust God and believe in His goodness even when the darkness of the world around you tries to convince you of the contrary. The struggles both perspective characters had with God felt so incredibly honest. I found myself weeping over the last chapter of the book. It ended on such a beautiful note of healing and hope that my heart wasn’t big enough to contain it.
There were some great side characters here, especially among Cyrene’s inner circle. I’m so excited to get more of Astrid and Revna's stories in the second and third installments in the series. I found Revna especially fascinating. She reminded me of characters like Arya Stark, or X-23, or Nona from Mark Lawrence's Book of the Ancestor. She is terror and death in a young female body, but she uses her powers for good, to protect and free those who cannot protect or free themselves.
I loved every single thing about The Huntress. This will definitely be one of my favorite books of 2025. It’s the kind of story that sweeps you away, that grips your mind and heart long after the final pages have been read. I’m so excited to continue the series, to see where Cotten brings these characters with whom I fell in love so quickly. If you’re looking for a story that will transport you, that will make you laugh and cry and think and have you on the edge of your seat, this is the book for you.
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