What do you think?
Rate this book
Sunset at Dawn #2
Treason & Thievery
Sparks fly as a female Robin Hood collides with a too-noble King Arthur in the second installment of this no-spice trilogy!
His throne was stolen from him.
The Bandit Queen will help reclaim it—
With the condition that he wed her.
Elspeth has performed her greatest heist stealing the Sacred Prince from the capital just as a release of dark magic turned its citizens against him. That was the easy part. Now she has to safely deliver the reluctant refugee across the province to her camp where he believes the Bandit King will bargain with his army to help Otello reclaim his stolen throne. Except, she is the Bandit King, and that bargain is a marriage arrangement.
Otello's life was turned upside-down in a single moment. Now he's forced to ally himself with the woman who betrayed him with a kiss if he wants to survive, let alone have a chance at seizing back the seat of his empire from the necromancer who wants his blood. As does everything else, it seems, from vampires to gysts. All that is, except the one the magic in his veins has imprinted on, the right hand of the Bandit King who he knows better than to trust with anything, let alone his heart.
He is prophesied to save the Empire. She is destined to destroy him.
If you enjoy fated love, enemies to lovers, and antagonistic marriages of convenience, stay tuned for all three books in this epic, fade-to-black romantic fantasy with a touch of comedy. The fate of an empire will be shaped by two stubborn lovers. It's perfect for fans of Shari L. Tapscott, Alisha Klapheke, and Elise Kova.
Survive the Empire.
Save the Prince.
Steal the Throne.
His throne was stolen from him.
The Bandit Queen will help reclaim it—
With the condition that he wed her.
Elspeth has performed her greatest heist stealing the Sacred Prince from the capital just as a release of dark magic turned its citizens against him. That was the easy part. Now she has to safely deliver the reluctant refugee across the province to her camp where he believes the Bandit King will bargain with his army to help Otello reclaim his stolen throne. Except, she is the Bandit King, and that bargain is a marriage arrangement.
Otello's life was turned upside-down in a single moment. Now he's forced to ally himself with the woman who betrayed him with a kiss if he wants to survive, let alone have a chance at seizing back the seat of his empire from the necromancer who wants his blood. As does everything else, it seems, from vampires to gysts. All that is, except the one the magic in his veins has imprinted on, the right hand of the Bandit King who he knows better than to trust with anything, let alone his heart.
He is prophesied to save the Empire. She is destined to destroy him.
If you enjoy fated love, enemies to lovers, and antagonistic marriages of convenience, stay tuned for all three books in this epic, fade-to-black romantic fantasy with a touch of comedy. The fate of an empire will be shaped by two stubborn lovers. It's perfect for fans of Shari L. Tapscott, Alisha Klapheke, and Elise Kova.
Survive the Empire.
Save the Prince.
Steal the Throne.
410 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 16, 2024
About the author
Jes Drew
74 books537 followersJes Drew is the author of the Cursed Fae of Orphydice Manor Series, the Sunset at Dawn trilogy, The Samurai's Student saga, the Ninja and Hunter trilogy, the Howling Twenty trilogy, the Kristian Clark saga/The Man on the Run series, the Castaways trilogy, The Dystopian Takeover trilogy, Summers of Yesteryear series, The Clockwork Faerie Tale Novellas, the Legends of the Master Spy series, The New ESE Files series, Tales from Parallel Worlds, Genie and Serena, Accidentally on the Run, This Side of Heaven, and The Death of a Hero.
She has three degrees, including a Master of Arts in Behavioral Counseling. Also, she has about five million houseplants (and counting— the plants and not the degrees . . . unless she relapses). She is still debating if having a fae husband is worth the hassle.
Sign up to Jes' newsletter to read Entreaty of Shadows for free!
https://mailchi.mp/ddd429767392/untit...
She has three degrees, including a Master of Arts in Behavioral Counseling. Also, she has about five million houseplants (and counting— the plants and not the degrees . . . unless she relapses). She is still debating if having a fae husband is worth the hassle.
Sign up to Jes' newsletter to read Entreaty of Shadows for free!
https://mailchi.mp/ddd429767392/untit...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
May 13, 2026
So it’s a slowww burn. Rightt got it got it. Of the best kind too. The type where they’re enemy-ing even when they’re lover-ing. I loved this continuation to the series, it was better than book one by a landslide. After the first installment I had to dive into this here book because of how addictive the writing in this series is. One thing that’s unlike most romantasy books nowadays is that this series is completely spice free, which is a pro in my book as that tends to pull me out of the story. We have multiple POVs here, and I loved being in Otello’s head the most personally. It’s around a 4 star, the pacing was great even with how long this book actually was. Really enjoying this series so far.
May 23, 2024
This book has absolutely left me speechless! The first book in the series, Betrayal and Banditry, was awesome and left me wanting more, but Treason and Thievery was even better. I loved all the different POVs and was able to tell that each character had his or her own voice in telling the story. The characters grew from the first book, and I had so much fun learning more about them and their stories. And, of course, I have to talk about the romance. It was really well written and the ending was perfect! I am definitely (somewhat impatiently) for the next book! Can't wait to read more from Jes Drew!
(I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.)
(I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.)
June 26, 2024
Packed with action, political intrigue, and feisty flirting, Treason & Thievery is an entertaining sequel to Betrayal & Banditry. The Holy Empire wavers between the powers of good and evil as both sides rally to crown a new Emperor first. Complications arise as Elspeth and Otello continue to misunderstand each other’s intentions while fighting against their growing attraction. These two are severely stubborn in their determination to have things go their way but must find a compromise before the villain can place a false ruler on the throne.
I loved the fast-paced action and the battles against haunting creatures, including estries (vampires) and gysts (ghosts). It was fun to see the fighting spirits of the protagonists shine as they worked together, and sometimes at odds, to get things moving. However, every time they progressed in their romantic relationship, one or the other seemed to mess things up! I enjoyed the knowledge they each gained as the author revealed secrets, and backstories came into focus. I also loved learning more about the portal magic briefly mentioned in book one and can’t wait to see how this plays into the dreaded prophecy/vision of the future. I hope things are not quite what they seemed, and I will be playing plenty of “what ifs” through my mind as I try to figure out how this story will end in book three!
As a side note, I’m 100% team Irwin as a match for Meredith. I can’t wait to see how their story plays out and how Irwin’s scientific endeavors contribute to conquering the enemies.
My one complaint is that it sometimes felt like the relationship between Elspeth and Otello was based more on physical attraction. I prefer to see enemies become lovers as they learn to admire each other’s character strengths and show compassion for vulnerabilities. Still, I think they started to empathize with each other’s tragic pasts in this book. They still have a ways to go before they get their happily ever after and save the empire from doom at the hands of a powerful enemy, but it looks like they're getting closer to their goals.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I loved the fast-paced action and the battles against haunting creatures, including estries (vampires) and gysts (ghosts). It was fun to see the fighting spirits of the protagonists shine as they worked together, and sometimes at odds, to get things moving. However, every time they progressed in their romantic relationship, one or the other seemed to mess things up! I enjoyed the knowledge they each gained as the author revealed secrets, and backstories came into focus. I also loved learning more about the portal magic briefly mentioned in book one and can’t wait to see how this plays into the dreaded prophecy/vision of the future. I hope things are not quite what they seemed, and I will be playing plenty of “what ifs” through my mind as I try to figure out how this story will end in book three!
As a side note, I’m 100% team Irwin as a match for Meredith. I can’t wait to see how their story plays out and how Irwin’s scientific endeavors contribute to conquering the enemies.
My one complaint is that it sometimes felt like the relationship between Elspeth and Otello was based more on physical attraction. I prefer to see enemies become lovers as they learn to admire each other’s character strengths and show compassion for vulnerabilities. Still, I think they started to empathize with each other’s tragic pasts in this book. They still have a ways to go before they get their happily ever after and save the empire from doom at the hands of a powerful enemy, but it looks like they're getting closer to their goals.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 19, 2026
I have mixed feelings about this book. On one hand, the story is SO good. It’s so different from the usual cookie-cutter romantasy plots that all bleed together after a while. It’s refreshing in that aspect, and I love that the author plays on the purity of the characters, makes it an important part of their identity. I also love the Christian undertones of their culture that is also a big part of the world building and such. The characters are also very likable (even if SOME of them are morons at times). Elspeth and Otello are great characters who remain consistent in their desires and goals.
That being said, my issues with this book series is that the editing done on it is atrocious. All throughout the book there were so many typos and continuity errors that kept pulling me out of the story. One example is an outfit is introduced as being light lavender. One paragraph later, it’s turned maroon. That sort of thing. Plus missing words, wrong words used, etc…
This book apparently had several editors and beta readers, and all of them failed to do their job. I hope the author didn’t pay thousands of dollars for the editing or she seriously got robbed.
Still, overall I did like this book and think it is worth reading, just because of the entertaining story and characters, which I plan to immediately start book three to find out what happens next!
Five stars for the story and overall good writing, but three for the terrible editing job.
That being said, my issues with this book series is that the editing done on it is atrocious. All throughout the book there were so many typos and continuity errors that kept pulling me out of the story. One example is an outfit is introduced as being light lavender. One paragraph later, it’s turned maroon. That sort of thing. Plus missing words, wrong words used, etc…
This book apparently had several editors and beta readers, and all of them failed to do their job. I hope the author didn’t pay thousands of dollars for the editing or she seriously got robbed.
Still, overall I did like this book and think it is worth reading, just because of the entertaining story and characters, which I plan to immediately start book three to find out what happens next!
Five stars for the story and overall good writing, but three for the terrible editing job.
June 18, 2025
Treason & Thievery is book two of the Sunset at Dawn trilogy and is action-packed, full of political intrigue, and tons of chemistry between our FMC and MMC.
A false prince has risen and Prince Otello has been cast aside thanks to a dark, unknown magic. To take his rightful place as emperor and save his brother, Otello must make alliances. Although betrayed by Elspeth, marrying her now may be his only salvation.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I loved the action-packed battles between our two main characters and the different creatures they came across, like estries and gysts. Elspeth and Otello flowed beautifully with each other while under pressure.
Otello is such a cutie. He falls for Elspeth quickly, which makes the marriage of convenience between the two more uncomfortable for him; however, he doesn't see another option to reclaim his throne.
The story ended on a cliffhanger, which has me so excited to read the last book in the trilogy, Romance & Robberies.
I highly recommend the audiobook. Mari Bee and Jon Brattin did an incredible job bringing Elspeth and Otello to life.
romantasy • enemies to lovers • robin hood • arthurian • retelling • high fantasy • closed door romance • marriage of convenience • elves
A false prince has risen and Prince Otello has been cast aside thanks to a dark, unknown magic. To take his rightful place as emperor and save his brother, Otello must make alliances. Although betrayed by Elspeth, marrying her now may be his only salvation.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I loved the action-packed battles between our two main characters and the different creatures they came across, like estries and gysts. Elspeth and Otello flowed beautifully with each other while under pressure.
Otello is such a cutie. He falls for Elspeth quickly, which makes the marriage of convenience between the two more uncomfortable for him; however, he doesn't see another option to reclaim his throne.
The story ended on a cliffhanger, which has me so excited to read the last book in the trilogy, Romance & Robberies.
I highly recommend the audiobook. Mari Bee and Jon Brattin did an incredible job bringing Elspeth and Otello to life.
romantasy • enemies to lovers • robin hood • arthurian • retelling • high fantasy • closed door romance • marriage of convenience • elves
February 16, 2025
3.5⭐️ 0🌶️
A great continuation to the series, while also being an easy read. The most impactful part of this novel for me was the amount of time that the author used to help really deepen these characters, especially with understanding their needs and motivations.
The novel continues to follow Elspeth and Otello as they navigate their new roles in life even though she has betrayed him prior. Meanwhile prophecies are being hidden, necromancy is at work, his half brother is still trapped in his old home. Meanwhile to help take back their lives alliances have to be made. It’s just that neither of them intended to slowly fall for each other.
I also had the opportunity to listen to the book while reading it and the voice actors did an amazing job of bringing the world and characters to life.
A great continuation to the series, while also being an easy read. The most impactful part of this novel for me was the amount of time that the author used to help really deepen these characters, especially with understanding their needs and motivations.
The novel continues to follow Elspeth and Otello as they navigate their new roles in life even though she has betrayed him prior. Meanwhile prophecies are being hidden, necromancy is at work, his half brother is still trapped in his old home. Meanwhile to help take back their lives alliances have to be made. It’s just that neither of them intended to slowly fall for each other.
I also had the opportunity to listen to the book while reading it and the voice actors did an amazing job of bringing the world and characters to life.
April 9, 2025
This epic fantasy trilogy was stunning in its breadth and scope! I loved the world building and the character growth that I saw! The twists and unexpected turns made the story exciting and interesting while the fallibility of those same characters often frustrated me! The story as a whole was clean and uplifting, but there were some instances where things could have morally gone south in a hurry if the author had chosen to let them. Thank goodness she didn’t! The other thing that could have bothered me (but didn’t, because I read them all together) was that the first two books in the trilogy ended rather abruptly in quite the cliffhangers! I would recommend that you read all three books together as one very long novel.
April 10, 2026
This review is for the entire series.
First, I'm not the intended audience. Once vampire-like creatures are introduced, I generally bail since I'm such an immersive reader and books will invade my dreams. And this trilogy did, unfortunately.
Several POVs. The story was well written. We have a world on the verge of a convergence. A dead world is trying to take over the alive world to attempt to harness the sun. There are several non-alive or undead creatures in this world. I saw the plot twist before Jes apparently lol. Heinrich really drew the short straw. Elspeth and Otello finally figure things out. And alls well that ends well, mostly.
I like other books from Jes. This one wasn't for me.
First, I'm not the intended audience. Once vampire-like creatures are introduced, I generally bail since I'm such an immersive reader and books will invade my dreams. And this trilogy did, unfortunately.
Several POVs. The story was well written. We have a world on the verge of a convergence. A dead world is trying to take over the alive world to attempt to harness the sun. There are several non-alive or undead creatures in this world. I saw the plot twist before Jes apparently lol. Heinrich really drew the short straw. Elspeth and Otello finally figure things out. And alls well that ends well, mostly.
I like other books from Jes. This one wasn't for me.
April 10, 2026
This review is for the entire series.
First, I'm not the intended audience. Once vampire-like creatures are introduced, I generally bail since I'm such an immersive reader and books will invade my dreams. And this trilogy did, unfortunately.
Several POVs. The story was well written. We have a world on the verge of a convergence. A dead world is trying to take over the alive world to attempt to harness the sun. There are several non-alive or undead creatures in this world. I saw the plot twist before Jes apparently lol. Heinrich really drew the short straw. Elspeth and Otello finally figure things out. And alls well that ends well, mostly.
I like other books from Jes. This one wasn't for me.
First, I'm not the intended audience. Once vampire-like creatures are introduced, I generally bail since I'm such an immersive reader and books will invade my dreams. And this trilogy did, unfortunately.
Several POVs. The story was well written. We have a world on the verge of a convergence. A dead world is trying to take over the alive world to attempt to harness the sun. There are several non-alive or undead creatures in this world. I saw the plot twist before Jes apparently lol. Heinrich really drew the short straw. Elspeth and Otello finally figure things out. And alls well that ends well, mostly.
I like other books from Jes. This one wasn't for me.
March 23, 2025
Ahhh loved it so much!
So Elspeth and Otello ( I adore the names) adventure and teasing continues.
I like that its real build of relationship and not insta love or too much overthinking but they do themselves and beside grew together thru many adventures!
I still like the world built however a “new world” surfaces and found some new bad guys over there.
I felt sometimes that Heinrich story is more of distraction time to time as it cuts in in the “worst” of times but it gets our attention on the rightand what and end match it brings!
More than happy to grab book3 as soon as possibe!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
So Elspeth and Otello ( I adore the names) adventure and teasing continues.
I like that its real build of relationship and not insta love or too much overthinking but they do themselves and beside grew together thru many adventures!
I still like the world built however a “new world” surfaces and found some new bad guys over there.
I felt sometimes that Heinrich story is more of distraction time to time as it cuts in in the “worst” of times but it gets our attention on the rightand what and end match it brings!
More than happy to grab book3 as soon as possibe!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 20, 2024
Treason and Thievery is book 2 in the Sunset at Dawn Series by Jes Drew. All of the citizens have been turned against Prince Otello. He must wed Elspeth to reclaim his throne. Weddings should be joyous and happy… except, it is not. This fantasy revolves around the wedding; but, vampires, werewolves, ghost, shadow creatures… are all playing havoc in the kingdom. Will marriage solve everything? Maybe book 3 will tell me! I received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.
February 23, 2026
I really enjoyed this. The tale is so intriguing; and this mixed with the setting and characters makes it a joy.
Even though it is clean, it has a lot more sexual references than most of Drew's books, given the couple's engaged status (e.g. discussing the wedding night, being horrified at accidentally seeing one another partially dressed, etc.).The storyline is a little convoluted at times, and the editing could be better, but it is definitely worth it.
I recommend to older teens and adults.
Even though it is clean, it has a lot more sexual references than most of Drew's books, given the couple's engaged status (e.g. discussing the wedding night, being horrified at accidentally seeing one another partially dressed, etc.).The storyline is a little convoluted at times, and the editing could be better, but it is definitely worth it.
I recommend to older teens and adults.
January 5, 2026
This is such a good book. The fighting, world building and banter between this duo is just *chef's kiss*. I wish they would just have a freaking conversation but you know, it's for the ✨️plot✨️
Also,
"I’d only kiss her in the name of national security. And if that’s the sacrifice I’m called on to make, I suppose I’ll have to find some way to follow through."
Also,
"I’d only kiss her in the name of national security. And if that’s the sacrifice I’m called on to make, I suppose I’ll have to find some way to follow through."
January 10, 2026
Once again, loving the plot, not digging the writing but I'm too invested in the story to not finish the series. Lots of sentences that are incomplete and don't make sense. This book does have more sexual flirtation, though most is within a marriage. So just be aware if that is something that you want to steer away from.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 7, 2024
I received this book as an ARC.
Jes drew has officially become my favourite author. I have read the 1st book in this series (Betrayal and banditry.) and I’ve read some of her other books such as Trapped by Vengeance and Kristian Clark and the Holly Heist. I am obsessed with her books and this one definitely didn’t disappoint. I am now waiting on the edge of my seat for the next book and hope it comes soon.
To anyone who loves clean fantasy romance this is the book for you and to anyone who would like to try fantasy or has time on their hands I highly recommend this author and her books.
Jes drew has officially become my favourite author. I have read the 1st book in this series (Betrayal and banditry.) and I’ve read some of her other books such as Trapped by Vengeance and Kristian Clark and the Holly Heist. I am obsessed with her books and this one definitely didn’t disappoint. I am now waiting on the edge of my seat for the next book and hope it comes soon.
To anyone who loves clean fantasy romance this is the book for you and to anyone who would like to try fantasy or has time on their hands I highly recommend this author and her books.
June 4, 2024
This was an enjoyable read and worked well as a sequel. I did find that I did not quite get into this book and found some of the structure a bit distracting. The concept was intriguing. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 20, 2025
Thrilling
The banter and the chemistry are off the charts, and this remains a clean read. Superb writing. Otello is just adorable! I so want there to be hope for Heinrich. He is so pure and innocent. So looking forward to the next book.
The banter and the chemistry are off the charts, and this remains a clean read. Superb writing. Otello is just adorable! I so want there to be hope for Heinrich. He is so pure and innocent. So looking forward to the next book.
March 9, 2023
The most fun I ever had writing a book was this one. Otello fell in love with Elspeth too early. I fell in love with Otello too fast. And now here we are.
April 18, 2024
The story itself is much improved and the romance is compelling. The lack of proofreading and basic editing, however, is a serious issue.
March 8, 2025
Amazing romantic fantasy! Mesmerizing, with lots of action and adventure.. Characters wonderful and full of life..
April 12, 2025
The second story in the Sunset at Dawn. I enjoyed listening to Elspeth and Otello's engaging story and found Mari Bee and Jon Brattin narration of the story to be well worth listening to.
July 28, 2025
Yes! 100 times yes. I love King Arthur, and Robin Hood mixed in? It was wonderful. It was full of drama and so many good themes and life lessons and kept me coming back again and again.
November 27, 2025
Part of an interconnected series that is best if read in order.
Written from multiple POV
dark magic
False Prince
Fighting attraction
Rebellion
Written from multiple POV
dark magic
False Prince
Fighting attraction
Rebellion
April 14, 2026
Second in the series. Liked the enemies to lovers slow-burn storyline between hElspeth and Otello
October 7, 2025
Jes Drew's Treason & Thievery, the second installment in her captivating trilogy, is a triumph of romantic fantasy, earning a resounding five stars. It masterfully executes the enticing premise of a cunning "Bandit Queen" and a noble "Sacred Prince" caught in a high-stakes game of thrones, love, and destiny.
The narrative plunges readers directly into the aftermath of a daring abduction, with Elspeth, our formidable "Bandit King," having pulled off her greatest heist by "stealing" Otello, the Sacred Prince. What follows is a thrilling journey across a perilous province, brimming with danger and the crackling tension between our two protagonists. The plot is intricately woven, expertly balancing political intrigue, magical threats (from necromancers to gysts and vampires), and the ever-present, escalating romantic conflict. The pacing is superb, ensuring that the story never lags, propelling readers through each chapter with a compelling blend of action and character development.
Elspeth and Otello are truly a magnificent pairing. Elspeth is everything a reader could want in a "Robin Hood" figure – intelligent, resourceful, fiercely loyal to her people, and possessing a sharp wit that often leaves Otello delightfully flustered. Otello, for his part, embodies the "too-noble King Arthur" archetype perfectly, forced to reconcile his rigid principles with the harsh realities of his stolen throne and the undeniable pull towards the woman who betrayed him with a kiss. Their dynamic is the absolute highlight of the book. The "enemies to lovers" and "antagonistic marriage of convenience" tropes are explored with refreshing depth, their electric banter and palpable tension making every interaction a joy to read. The "fated love" element is subtly woven, making their burgeoning connection feel both inevitable and hard-won.
Drew's world-building continues to impress, establishing a richly imagined empire shadowed by dark magic and political machinations. The stakes feel incredibly real, with the fate of the entire empire resting on the shoulders of these two stubborn, compelling individuals. The "fade-to-black" approach to the romance is expertly handled – for readers who appreciate intricate emotional intimacy and escalating tension without explicit scenes, this book delivers beautifully. The "touch of comedy" promised in the description also shines through, providing well-placed moments of levity amidst the high drama.
For fans of Shari L. Tapscott, Alisha Klapheke, and Elise Kova, particularly those who relish strong character dynamics, high-stakes fantasy, and a deeply satisfying, character-driven romance that prioritizes emotional connection, Treason & Thievery is an absolute must-read. Jes Drew has crafted a truly immersive and unforgettable experience that leaves readers eagerly anticipating the final chapter of this epic trilogy.
The narrative plunges readers directly into the aftermath of a daring abduction, with Elspeth, our formidable "Bandit King," having pulled off her greatest heist by "stealing" Otello, the Sacred Prince. What follows is a thrilling journey across a perilous province, brimming with danger and the crackling tension between our two protagonists. The plot is intricately woven, expertly balancing political intrigue, magical threats (from necromancers to gysts and vampires), and the ever-present, escalating romantic conflict. The pacing is superb, ensuring that the story never lags, propelling readers through each chapter with a compelling blend of action and character development.
Elspeth and Otello are truly a magnificent pairing. Elspeth is everything a reader could want in a "Robin Hood" figure – intelligent, resourceful, fiercely loyal to her people, and possessing a sharp wit that often leaves Otello delightfully flustered. Otello, for his part, embodies the "too-noble King Arthur" archetype perfectly, forced to reconcile his rigid principles with the harsh realities of his stolen throne and the undeniable pull towards the woman who betrayed him with a kiss. Their dynamic is the absolute highlight of the book. The "enemies to lovers" and "antagonistic marriage of convenience" tropes are explored with refreshing depth, their electric banter and palpable tension making every interaction a joy to read. The "fated love" element is subtly woven, making their burgeoning connection feel both inevitable and hard-won.
Drew's world-building continues to impress, establishing a richly imagined empire shadowed by dark magic and political machinations. The stakes feel incredibly real, with the fate of the entire empire resting on the shoulders of these two stubborn, compelling individuals. The "fade-to-black" approach to the romance is expertly handled – for readers who appreciate intricate emotional intimacy and escalating tension without explicit scenes, this book delivers beautifully. The "touch of comedy" promised in the description also shines through, providing well-placed moments of levity amidst the high drama.
For fans of Shari L. Tapscott, Alisha Klapheke, and Elise Kova, particularly those who relish strong character dynamics, high-stakes fantasy, and a deeply satisfying, character-driven romance that prioritizes emotional connection, Treason & Thievery is an absolute must-read. Jes Drew has crafted a truly immersive and unforgettable experience that leaves readers eagerly anticipating the final chapter of this epic trilogy.
July 31, 2024
Jes Drew’s Treason & Thievery is a captivating continuation of her trilogy, blending the legendary tales of Robin Hood and King Arthur into a unique narrative. In this second installment, the classic Robin Hood character is reimagined as a compelling female protagonist who encounters a noble King, adding a fresh twist to the well-loved stories.
The novel excels with its use of multiple perspectives, allowing each character to share their individual emotions and actions, which enriches the story and deepens reader engagement. The character development since the first book, Sunset at Dawn, is remarkable, with the characters showing significant growth and evolution.
Additionally, the romance in Treason & Thievery is beautifully written, striking a perfect balance without overshadowing the main plot. This thoughtful approach enhances the story rather than detracting from it, making it a standout element of the book.
The novel excels with its use of multiple perspectives, allowing each character to share their individual emotions and actions, which enriches the story and deepens reader engagement. The character development since the first book, Sunset at Dawn, is remarkable, with the characters showing significant growth and evolution.
Additionally, the romance in Treason & Thievery is beautifully written, striking a perfect balance without overshadowing the main plot. This thoughtful approach enhances the story rather than detracting from it, making it a standout element of the book.
January 28, 2025
After finishing the first book in the Sunset at Dawn series I could not wait to start “Treason and Thievery.” While the first book ended with most of the characters barely escaping with their lives, this book keeps the characters in constant peril! So often, I found myself clutching my Kindle, worrying a favorite character would befall some awful fate.
There are so many great characters in the book. I especially like Elspeth and Otello. They have a “will they won’t they,” storyline that keeps me wanting more. I also admire their dedication to doing anything to save their people. I hope they don’t lose what they value most.
I have many questions concerning this prophecy, but it seems I will have to wait until book three.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
There are so many great characters in the book. I especially like Elspeth and Otello. They have a “will they won’t they,” storyline that keeps me wanting more. I also admire their dedication to doing anything to save their people. I hope they don’t lose what they value most.
I have many questions concerning this prophecy, but it seems I will have to wait until book three.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 10, 2024
What a fantastic sequel in the Sunset at Down series! With undertones of the tales of Robin Hood and King Arthur, Treason & Thievery brings readers right back into it with our favorite enemies to lovers, Elspeth and Otello. These two are the perfect opposites of one another and it makes me giggle every time they bicker. But boy, is that heated tension right under the surface of every quip. These two did start to have a better understanding of one another as we learned more about their pasts, and this definitely added another layer to their relationship and interactions. The world continues to expand before our eyes, and I am so excited to see what is next for these characters in book 3!
November 29, 2024
I highly enjoyed the first book of the series and this one was even better! I will be on the lookout for the next book.
I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews