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Court of Elves #3
The Beautiful Liar
After her showdown with Mordren Darkbringer, Kenna's life has gotten even more complicated and dangerous. It certainly doesn't help that the tenuous peace between the courts is threatened by an upcoming tournament in the Court of Fire. Old rivalries between the elven princes flare up as a result of it, and anyone who gets too close risks getting burned.
In the middle of this rising tension, Kenna has to try and figure out how she fits into it all. But in a world where everyone has a secret agenda, trust is scarce, and one wrong move can have disastrous consequences. So when Kenna is approached with a proposition that is both intriguing and highly lucrative, she grudgingly joins forces with the Prince of Shadows. Keep your enemies close, and all that.
Can Kenna and Mordren set aside their differences long enough to accomplish their mission? Or will their heated emotions ruin a shot at revenge and set their whole world ablaze?
In the middle of this rising tension, Kenna has to try and figure out how she fits into it all. But in a world where everyone has a secret agenda, trust is scarce, and one wrong move can have disastrous consequences. So when Kenna is approached with a proposition that is both intriguing and highly lucrative, she grudgingly joins forces with the Prince of Shadows. Keep your enemies close, and all that.
Can Kenna and Mordren set aside their differences long enough to accomplish their mission? Or will their heated emotions ruin a shot at revenge and set their whole world ablaze?
342 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 1, 2024
203 people are currently reading
709 people want to read
About the author
Marion Blackwood
32 books1,602 followersMarion Blackwood is the author of The Oncoming Storm series, the Court of Elves series, the Ruthless Villains series, the Ruthless Enemy trilogy, and the Flame and Thorns series. She has a Master's Degree in English and History Education, and she worked as a high school teacher before becoming a full-time author. When she's not busy writing fantasy books or traveling the world, she reads, binges shows, and loses at video games. Marion has previously lived in the US and China, but now she once again calls the beautiful country of Sweden home. To find out more, visit: www.marionblackwood.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
January 13, 2022
Another breathtaking part in the “Court of Elves” series! This series just keeps getting better and better and more intense each time! I am obsessed with these characters y’all! I am so in love with this series, it’s insane.
The storyline is quick paced and filled with action and it keeps you hooked the entire time. It’s one of those books that makes you feel everything at once! The mix of action and romance and the tension is the perfect combination to make every reader fall in love with reading all over again! And the slow burn, knife to throat enemies to lovers? *Chef’s kiss*!! It’s so so well done, this might be one of my favorite enemies to lovers of all time!
The writing style, as always, is absolutely perfect! This author deserves so much more hype honestly because her books, literally every single one of them, made it to my favorites’ list. I’ve read 10 books from her so far and I cannot wait for her next ones to come out!
Note: Thank you to the author for sending me an early arc in exchange for a review!
The storyline is quick paced and filled with action and it keeps you hooked the entire time. It’s one of those books that makes you feel everything at once! The mix of action and romance and the tension is the perfect combination to make every reader fall in love with reading all over again! And the slow burn, knife to throat enemies to lovers? *Chef’s kiss*!! It’s so so well done, this might be one of my favorite enemies to lovers of all time!
The writing style, as always, is absolutely perfect! This author deserves so much more hype honestly because her books, literally every single one of them, made it to my favorites’ list. I’ve read 10 books from her so far and I cannot wait for her next ones to come out!
Note: Thank you to the author for sending me an early arc in exchange for a review!
February 24, 2022
5 stars★★★★★
☞ Trigger warnings: **contains spoilers**
Court of Midnight and Deception reviews:
#1 The Traitor Spy: ★★★☆☆
#2 The Wicked Betrayal: ★★★★★
#3 The Beautiful Liar: ★★★★★
#4 The Fire Soul: 28th Feb release
The Wicked Betrayal ended with a successful robbery, Kenna's freedom from slavery and hope for the future. Also I debuted by shiny new Marion Blackwood plot-outline theory which states:
Theory:
When (almost) every scheme/plan works, then the last, most important scheme will fail (and vice versa).
Meaning:
In the context of The Beautiful Liar, the schemes throughout were successful but the final plan did not go well. It was a shit-show really.
**Disclaimer: Once again I am not claiming it's foolproof but if you look at other Marion Blackwood books, you will see the same pattern but I urge you to come up with your own conclusions. These are just mine. **
Let me not get ahead of myself. Let's start at the beginning.
Kenna is free. She has bought her freedom via an unwilling donor and now life is her oyster. Unfortunately, other people have plans to use her skills for nefarious means. Sure, her plans tend to be nefarious but her future is no longer set in stone, with any and all opportunies open to her. She can do and be anyone she wants and who's to stop her?? No one owns her and no one is beholden to her. She is in control of her life and destiny.
That destiny brings her back to the Prince of Shadows and his cadre. Does the Prince want her there? Yes but also no. It's complicated. What he wants is to carry out a very dangerous, very secret and very important plan. It involves getting into very hard places and only Kenna has the ability and skill to help them accomplish it. Also there is a time limit. Nothing ever ends well if there is a time limit.
What happens is unexpected for Kenna. She grows attachments and relationships with the people she works with. She opens up, shares her life and experiences and enjoys herself without the overarching weight of secrets and the crushing need to find her freedom. She is a free woman and that means she isn't beholden to a different court. She can enjoy what this new court has, and help them with no expectations of betrayal or punishment. She could walk away if she wanted to and that has never been an option for her.
Kenna doesn't walk away because what they are trying to accomplish is bigger than vengeance. The Prince of Fire is a shitty guy. Like scoundrel of the earth type with a bad history with the Prince of Shadows. Vengeance is the obvious reason for trying to carry out this plan but the people in the Prince of Fire's Court would have a drastically better standard of living with him out of the picture. Kenna is not only doing this because she would like to see the Prince of Fire eat dirt, but because she was like those people, helpless to the whims of their Prince. The people under the Prince of Fire suffer greatly and are simply seen as possessions.
I have trouble deciding how I feel about the other members of the Prince of Shadow's cadre. I don't necessarily have any huge attachments to them and I feel like we didn't really delve in to each character as much as I would like. We were on their home turf, and it would have been nice to see her personally connect with each member over time. Maybe it will be in the future books, as there is a bigger overarching conflict on the horizon that will help establish this but I wanted to see Kenna interact with the others in more depth, especially without the Prince there. Kenna doesn't have many friends and I wanted them to be her new set of friends that will eventually be her new family. At the end of this book, Kenna does acknowledge that her new friends are the Princes' and that she feels like the outsider, the add-on. I felt that reading and it made me sad that she fully still doesn't have anywhere that she belongs. She stakes her life for these people, time and time again. I hope she grows these new relationships but also finds her place within this world, with her own friends that are as strong as the Prince of Shadows cadre.
Favourite scene: When Kenna got jumped and her love interest goes all alpha-male on her attackers. That was hot.
Also I was screaming at the Void reveal!!! SCREAMING !!! I will never recover from the shock. I loved it. It was giving the end of Glint!! She chucked a Raven Kennedy!!! Iconic.
The romance in this one was firmly established. It got hot and heavy in this book and Kenna finally admits that this relationship was pretty serious. They both understand each other deeper than anyone ever has and its beautiful to see this connection form. Am I scared about the fact it's only book 3 and they are down-bad for each other so soon? Yes but I have faith that Marion Blackwood won't break my heart. I am rooting for them and I know I will be rewarded for my loyalty.
Do most of their plans leading up to the ultimate plan work? Yes. The team works well together and trust each other. They are all schemers and this isn't their first rodeo. This leads me back to my theory . As everything is going off without a hitch (mostly), then we all know what's about to happen. *dun dun dunnn*
Yeah, it's not good. Kenna has done something to save another, but at the cost of her life. That's not good. She has had what, maybe 6 months of freedom and then she's back, under the control of the grossest man alive. I blame the Prince of Shadows for this. I knew everything was going too well. The Prince of Shadows is going to be in deep shit with the King but bloody hell I am not ready for the deep shit Kenna is going to have to trudge through. Kenna saved them all but I worry she will regress with little help from the outside. It doesn't look good. I hope the cadre are happy because I am definitely not.
Would I recommend this book?
Yeah I would recommend this book/series. It's low fantasy with great characters, funny banter and shocking scenes.
I would probably tell you to read Marion Blackwood's first series The Oncoming Storm.
Will I continue reading this series?
Yes 100%.
Will I re-read this book?
Yeah I would. Marion Blackwood is a favourite author that I would go back to again, and again.
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December 22, 2021
I received a free ARC copy of this book and am leaving a review voluntarily.
Once again, Marion manages to surpass the previous book while introducing new conflict, new challenges and putting our main character through all new situations that challenge her world view and sense of self.
One of the things Marion does so well with these books is building on the previous books at a pace that feels earned—not too fast but not too slow to forget the build up. The result is a beautiful finale of feelings! And she’s not even done!
I absolutely adore how we see and feel with our MC yet can continue to get frustrated with some of her decisions too. But the pay off is so good!
Definitely pick up this series if you haven’t yet. Worth the time invested!
Once again, Marion manages to surpass the previous book while introducing new conflict, new challenges and putting our main character through all new situations that challenge her world view and sense of self.
One of the things Marion does so well with these books is building on the previous books at a pace that feels earned—not too fast but not too slow to forget the build up. The result is a beautiful finale of feelings! And she’s not even done!
I absolutely adore how we see and feel with our MC yet can continue to get frustrated with some of her decisions too. But the pay off is so good!
Definitely pick up this series if you haven’t yet. Worth the time invested!
December 18, 2021
Wow. What a book! This series just gets better and better! Such an emotionally rollercoaster! I had to put the book away at one point to just breath and not cry my eyes out! Finally something happens that I've longed for in the second book (and figured from the first book). But to really feel all these emotions you have to read the first and second book! Its just.. Mindblowing! And a lot of pieces comes togheter in this from the prebooks of this series! What will happen in the next book!? I just, want it now! The question is, will my heart survive it!?
February 13, 2022
My god, I have the the urge and need to applaud Marion for this book.
The Beautiful Liar is the amazing third installment in The Court of Elves series. You have no idea how many times I was completely shocked, stunned and surprised by everything happening. This book what’s a total build up, the pacing was just perfect and everything that happened; it’s really incredible.
Kenna is truly, a beautiful liar. She has grown so much since the first time we see her and I love how confident she is now. AND FINALLY MORDREN AND HER ADMIT THEY LIKE EACHOTHER AND MORE.
I really do love him.
All lovers of fantasy, mystery, enemies to lovers and action, will absolutely adore this book and series.
The Beautiful Liar is the amazing third installment in The Court of Elves series. You have no idea how many times I was completely shocked, stunned and surprised by everything happening. This book what’s a total build up, the pacing was just perfect and everything that happened; it’s really incredible.
Kenna is truly, a beautiful liar. She has grown so much since the first time we see her and I love how confident she is now. AND FINALLY MORDREN AND HER ADMIT THEY LIKE EACHOTHER AND MORE.
I really do love him.
All lovers of fantasy, mystery, enemies to lovers and action, will absolutely adore this book and series.
December 19, 2021
Oh my, what a book! This is the best in the series so far. I love the plot, the relationships and the magical world. This book is just perfect and gives the maincharacter a purpose. Well, that's what I'm rooting for anyway. A family. Love.
As always I'm amazed by how the writing brings all these emotions. I just finished this and I'm still crying my eyes out. I'm longing for the next book and how that will start to heal my broken heart 💔
As always I'm amazed by how the writing brings all these emotions. I just finished this and I'm still crying my eyes out. I'm longing for the next book and how that will start to heal my broken heart 💔
December 26, 2021
I'm convinced, Marion Blackwood cannot write a bad book. This was absolutely amazing, and I enjoyed every minute of it. I loved seeing Kenna and Mordren working together, and their dynamics remind me so much of Storm and Shade from the Oncoming Storm series, but there is enough differentiation to make it clear it's a different story. Marion is truly a master of her craft, and I can't wait for book 4!!
December 27, 2021
The enemies in love community would like to thank Ms Marion Blackwood for NOT making us wait six books for a certain prince of shadows and a certain scheming blackmailer.
Give me the next book NOW. Respectfully.
Give me the next book NOW. Respectfully.
January 6, 2022
You need to read this series…
That is legit all I have to say. Read this series guys. Like. Just wow. Please. Read it so I can cheer you on and squeeeee with you.
Please.
That is legit all I have to say. Read this series guys. Like. Just wow. Please. Read it so I can cheer you on and squeeeee with you.
Please.
November 17, 2025
It’s so cheesy but I can’t stop. Here for the banter and the schemes
December 6, 2021
Holy roast potatoes!
Marion Blackwood delivers yet again with a fast paced fantasy with twists, turns, deception and more!
Kenna is the morally grey female lead you never know you needed and totally want!
I NEED THE NEXT BOOK!!!!!!
Marion Blackwood delivers yet again with a fast paced fantasy with twists, turns, deception and more!
Kenna is the morally grey female lead you never know you needed and totally want!
I NEED THE NEXT BOOK!!!!!!
December 27, 2021
I received an ARC for this book and with this you can expect my voluntarily and honest opinion about this book.
Kenna faces new challenges and obstacles in this book. Definitely more action packed and planning schemes than the previous ones. Love how the relationships in this series are coming along.
Personally the best book of the series, and now not to so patiently waiting on the next one!
The Beautiful Liar - part 3 of the Court of Elves series - will be out December 27th.
Kenna faces new challenges and obstacles in this book. Definitely more action packed and planning schemes than the previous ones. Love how the relationships in this series are coming along.
Personally the best book of the series, and now not to so patiently waiting on the next one!
The Beautiful Liar - part 3 of the Court of Elves series - will be out December 27th.
November 14, 2021
Kenna explores her life as a free person and somehow still ends up being more tied to others than she ever was by any contract. Only now it is an emotional bond. But do not worry, she is as badass as ever.
Ms. Blackwood did it again. I am way too invested in these characters and all the action and emotions they are facing. I just cannot wait for the next book to come.
Ms. Blackwood did it again. I am way too invested in these characters and all the action and emotions they are facing. I just cannot wait for the next book to come.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 12, 2022
💋The Beautiful Liar Review💋
Marion Blackwood
💋The Beautiful Liar Review💋
▪️💋Court of Elves book 3💋▪️
〰️💋I received an Advance Reader Copy of the book for an honest review by Marion Blackwood💋〰️
▪️This was may favorite book in this series so far and the ending kept me on the edge of my seat and unable to put the book down until I finished it and the extra bonus scene. I enjoyed seeing how Kenna expands her friend group with more people who are loyal to her and how she overcomes her past servitude. Even though I LOVED this book, the ending did frustrate me with Kenna’s predicament in the Court of Fire.
💋SPOILER: In this book Kenna is finally free after her VERY successful scheme against Prince Mordren. Book 3 gives many preludes for events that may arise and goals Kenna has that we may see play out in future books. I love how strong-willed she is and how she starts to really become her own in this book.
▪️As far as the romance goes, we finally see some HEAT in this book. Mordren and Kenna begin to explore their relationship and start considering what they re to each other in this book. A pivotal scene is where Kenna almost dies and Mordren rushes to save her in the Court ofd Water.
💋SPOILER 2: In regards to Mordren seeking help from the Court of Water he does hint at Kenna being something “special” to him but we are not given any more details about this yet. I have a hunch they are ‘soul-mates’ and that she is his true love.
▪️Overall, this book was a great read and I suggest taking the time to reread the previous two books first. Also, we begin to see Kenna’s backbone and tenacity in this book and can picture her goals for becoming a ruler over a court.
💋#oncomingstorm #marionblackburn #traitorspy #elves #fantasy #books #romancebook #bookblogger #bookstagram #bookreview #romancereads #dark #contemporary #spy #thieves #darkfantasy #shadowelves #assassinsguild #thievesguild #evilking #poison #darkromance #bookish #youngadult #newadult #stoneelves #woodelves #paranormalromance #magic #highelves #blackmail #wardancers
Marion Blackwood
💋The Beautiful Liar Review💋
▪️💋Court of Elves book 3💋▪️
〰️💋I received an Advance Reader Copy of the book for an honest review by Marion Blackwood💋〰️
▪️This was may favorite book in this series so far and the ending kept me on the edge of my seat and unable to put the book down until I finished it and the extra bonus scene. I enjoyed seeing how Kenna expands her friend group with more people who are loyal to her and how she overcomes her past servitude. Even though I LOVED this book, the ending did frustrate me with Kenna’s predicament in the Court of Fire.
💋SPOILER: In this book Kenna is finally free after her VERY successful scheme against Prince Mordren. Book 3 gives many preludes for events that may arise and goals Kenna has that we may see play out in future books. I love how strong-willed she is and how she starts to really become her own in this book.
▪️As far as the romance goes, we finally see some HEAT in this book. Mordren and Kenna begin to explore their relationship and start considering what they re to each other in this book. A pivotal scene is where Kenna almost dies and Mordren rushes to save her in the Court ofd Water.
💋SPOILER 2: In regards to Mordren seeking help from the Court of Water he does hint at Kenna being something “special” to him but we are not given any more details about this yet. I have a hunch they are ‘soul-mates’ and that she is his true love.
▪️Overall, this book was a great read and I suggest taking the time to reread the previous two books first. Also, we begin to see Kenna’s backbone and tenacity in this book and can picture her goals for becoming a ruler over a court.
💋#oncomingstorm #marionblackburn #traitorspy #elves #fantasy #books #romancebook #bookblogger #bookstagram #bookreview #romancereads #dark #contemporary #spy #thieves #darkfantasy #shadowelves #assassinsguild #thievesguild #evilking #poison #darkromance #bookish #youngadult #newadult #stoneelves #woodelves #paranormalromance #magic #highelves #blackmail #wardancers
December 13, 2023
Kenna
Good opening. He just watches while she's caught and handcuffed, then watches amused as she gets herself out of it and gets away.
I guess I'm glad that Mordran didn't purchase her, because now they can work together!
Hadeon: "Are you serious? You haven't shut up about her since the day you started. Not. One. Single. Day. For over a month. And now you suddenly have nothing to say?". Lol.
I'm very surprised, I'm enchanted by the family love between Modran and Eilan and Hadeon and Ellyda - Kenna says she almost feels bad for poisoning Mordran in front of the other two because she could see the love in their gazes.
She has good reason to question who she should trust and if she should trust him. His little "family" is a really good setup for giving her a good reason to trust him.
The meeting Volkan scene - good writing. Volkan's power against Mordran's power, Ida a moment from killing Hadeon, Hadeon a moment from killing Ida... good. Book 3 is so far better than book 1 and 2. This "attack" basically started because he put his hand on Kenna, then Mordren pushed his hand away with his shadows... it was mostly a ruse to allow Eilan to sneak in and do stuff, but she wonders if his reaction was all really an act...
I had to take a break because I got very sick and binged gossip girl instead. It's really nice to come back to this story of adults trying to accomplish something after binging about naïve teenagers dealing with high school drama.
I feel like the author was instructed to use the word 'wicked' in every chapter. Now she's started trying to also use the word 'villain/villainous'. And it's always regarding her's or someone else's smirk.
Being sick impacted the read, made it feel a little more mechanical, and made it a little harder to immerse into the story. Nonetheless, I enjoyed it, and I was entertained.
Something the author is good at is making her characters real.
In comparison to the first 2 books, book 3 is 5 material, but in comparison to The Oncoming Storm, it's 4. I'm still hoping for more. Also, my enjoyment (including the effect of being sick)... 4.
Ranking:
-Book 3: she teams up with Mordran to kill Prince Volkan. Meanwhile, learning the family dynamic between him and his friends and meeting the high elves. They fail, and she becomes a spy/slave in his court. Huge shift in quality in this book. Very focused and intentional with every chapter. 4
-Book 2: Her family admits they sold her (she wasn't taken). She's all on her own. She meets Valerie and Theo. She plays games with Mordren, and he plays back. She tricks him into buying her freedom from the Stone Prince. 4
-Book 1: Intro to the story. She helps her family pay off a gambling debt. Evander, her "mark," is secretly a spy for the princess who attempted to kill the king. 3.5
Good opening. He just watches while she's caught and handcuffed, then watches amused as she gets herself out of it and gets away.
I guess I'm glad that Mordran didn't purchase her, because now they can work together!
Hadeon: "Are you serious? You haven't shut up about her since the day you started. Not. One. Single. Day. For over a month. And now you suddenly have nothing to say?". Lol.
I'm very surprised, I'm enchanted by the family love between Modran and Eilan and Hadeon and Ellyda - Kenna says she almost feels bad for poisoning Mordran in front of the other two because she could see the love in their gazes.
She has good reason to question who she should trust and if she should trust him. His little "family" is a really good setup for giving her a good reason to trust him.
The meeting Volkan scene - good writing. Volkan's power against Mordran's power, Ida a moment from killing Hadeon, Hadeon a moment from killing Ida... good. Book 3 is so far better than book 1 and 2. This "attack" basically started because he put his hand on Kenna, then Mordren pushed his hand away with his shadows... it was mostly a ruse to allow Eilan to sneak in and do stuff, but she wonders if his reaction was all really an act...
I had to take a break because I got very sick and binged gossip girl instead. It's really nice to come back to this story of adults trying to accomplish something after binging about naïve teenagers dealing with high school drama.
I feel like the author was instructed to use the word 'wicked' in every chapter. Now she's started trying to also use the word 'villain/villainous'. And it's always regarding her's or someone else's smirk.
Being sick impacted the read, made it feel a little more mechanical, and made it a little harder to immerse into the story. Nonetheless, I enjoyed it, and I was entertained.
Something the author is good at is making her characters real.
In comparison to the first 2 books, book 3 is 5 material, but in comparison to The Oncoming Storm, it's 4. I'm still hoping for more. Also, my enjoyment (including the effect of being sick)... 4.
Ranking:
-Book 3: she teams up with Mordran to kill Prince Volkan. Meanwhile, learning the family dynamic between him and his friends and meeting the high elves. They fail, and she becomes a spy/slave in his court. Huge shift in quality in this book. Very focused and intentional with every chapter. 4
-Book 2: Her family admits they sold her (she wasn't taken). She's all on her own. She meets Valerie and Theo. She plays games with Mordren, and he plays back. She tricks him into buying her freedom from the Stone Prince. 4
-Book 1: Intro to the story. She helps her family pay off a gambling debt. Evander, her "mark," is secretly a spy for the princess who attempted to kill the king. 3.5
June 22, 2023
Rating: ♾️/5
“You’re intelligent and cunning and powerful and you fight and scheme your way to what you want with ruthless determination.”
Finally free from the Court of Stone, Kenna finds herself unsure of what to do with her new life. Yes, she enjoys her freedom. But, she needs something more. Enter, once again Mordren Darkbringer and the Court of Shadows.
Mordren Darkbringer and his friends have one goal in mind. To destroy one of the other elven princes. But they can’t do it alone. They need someone who is cunning and determined. Perhaps someone who could walk through walls. Enter Kenna.
Whilst Kenna and Mordren work together (despite their lack of trust for one another), new problems arise in all of the courts.
The Beautiful Liar, so far, is my favorite book of the Court of Elves series. In fact, no amount of stars could explain how much I loved this book. It was so interesting to see both Mordren and Kenna’s character development as well as their relationship development. Kenna is such a selfless/badass character. I absolutely adore the banter between her and Mordren. Hadeon, Eilan, and Ellyda are perfect additions to the book (although they do make an appearance in the previous books). I loved the group dynamic so so much. Absolutely fantastic.
I absolutely can not get over the Court of Water scene. It lives in my mind rent free. Also, the plot twist towards the end (the beautiful liar). Unbelievable. I truly was not expecting that. I really love this series.
“You’re intelligent and cunning and powerful and you fight and scheme your way to what you want with ruthless determination.”
Finally free from the Court of Stone, Kenna finds herself unsure of what to do with her new life. Yes, she enjoys her freedom. But, she needs something more. Enter, once again Mordren Darkbringer and the Court of Shadows.
Mordren Darkbringer and his friends have one goal in mind. To destroy one of the other elven princes. But they can’t do it alone. They need someone who is cunning and determined. Perhaps someone who could walk through walls. Enter Kenna.
Whilst Kenna and Mordren work together (despite their lack of trust for one another), new problems arise in all of the courts.
The Beautiful Liar, so far, is my favorite book of the Court of Elves series. In fact, no amount of stars could explain how much I loved this book. It was so interesting to see both Mordren and Kenna’s character development as well as their relationship development. Kenna is such a selfless/badass character. I absolutely adore the banter between her and Mordren. Hadeon, Eilan, and Ellyda are perfect additions to the book (although they do make an appearance in the previous books). I loved the group dynamic so so much. Absolutely fantastic.
I absolutely can not get over the Court of Water scene. It lives in my mind rent free. Also, the plot twist towards the end (the beautiful liar). Unbelievable. I truly was not expecting that. I really love this series.
May 15, 2025
I continue growing on this catchy, fast-paced, adventurous series, and the third book was great! The ending hit me not once but twice: I never saw this coming! Marion Blackwood outsmarted me again, and I think she is only getting better at this race!
Kenna is free now, but she is not sure what to do with her life. Her past in servitude to the Stone Prince still comes as a nostalgia, even though Kenna got what she craved so desperately. Her new friends, Theo and Valerie, saved a spot for her in their crew, but Kenna never wanted to obey the orders; she would prefer to give the orders herself. That's why she takes the presented opportunity to work for Mordren Darkbringer, the Shadow Prince and her rival, with whom the game is always at its highest stake. Kenna steps into a dangerous path because Mordren plans something equally reckless and grandeur. But Kenna is all about taking great risks and winning the best prize; besides, running alongside Mordren might be much more entertaining than she imagined.
Apart from this, there is a new player on the horizon: the mythical race of High Elves approached the shore and their presence may switch things into the most unpresedented way, because the current Princes of the Courts are the descendants of the Lower Elves who escaped the High Elves millenia ago.
Wow, wow, wow! This book is gripping, kinetic and a super entertaining read! I am just happy to have all seven of them in my possesion and can binge one after another! Just wish I could have more time on my hands to read them faster!
Kenna is free now, but she is not sure what to do with her life. Her past in servitude to the Stone Prince still comes as a nostalgia, even though Kenna got what she craved so desperately. Her new friends, Theo and Valerie, saved a spot for her in their crew, but Kenna never wanted to obey the orders; she would prefer to give the orders herself. That's why she takes the presented opportunity to work for Mordren Darkbringer, the Shadow Prince and her rival, with whom the game is always at its highest stake. Kenna steps into a dangerous path because Mordren plans something equally reckless and grandeur. But Kenna is all about taking great risks and winning the best prize; besides, running alongside Mordren might be much more entertaining than she imagined.
Apart from this, there is a new player on the horizon: the mythical race of High Elves approached the shore and their presence may switch things into the most unpresedented way, because the current Princes of the Courts are the descendants of the Lower Elves who escaped the High Elves millenia ago.
Wow, wow, wow! This book is gripping, kinetic and a super entertaining read! I am just happy to have all seven of them in my possesion and can binge one after another! Just wish I could have more time on my hands to read them faster!
December 16, 2021
Thank you to the author, Marion Blackwood, for providing a copy of The Beautiful Liar (Court of Elves book 3). I have reviewed honestly.
The Beautiful Liar features, but is not limited to, the following themes:
○ YA fantasy
○ Sassy FMC
○ Enemies to lovers
○ Found family
○ Schemes
○ Magic
○ Anti heroes
○ Elves
○ Spies
My overall rating for The Beautiful Liar is…
5 Stars!
Our favourite half elf, half human anti-hero is back with all the sass and schemes we crave! This book was exhilarating! I think I've mentioned in previous reviews how exceptional this author is at mapping out a plot to blow your mind, and this book was no exception. The journey Blackwood took us on in this chapter of Kennas life was poetic in its brilliance. Conspiracies, battles, thievery, balls, magic, romance and so much more! This book kept me on my toes, that's for sure. And that finale! Tense, gripping and downright shocking. I don't know how it's possible for each book in this series to surprise me that little bit more but Blackwood pulls it off and then some! I am so ready for book 4!
The Beautiful Liar features, but is not limited to, the following themes:
○ YA fantasy
○ Sassy FMC
○ Enemies to lovers
○ Found family
○ Schemes
○ Magic
○ Anti heroes
○ Elves
○ Spies
My overall rating for The Beautiful Liar is…
5 Stars!
Our favourite half elf, half human anti-hero is back with all the sass and schemes we crave! This book was exhilarating! I think I've mentioned in previous reviews how exceptional this author is at mapping out a plot to blow your mind, and this book was no exception. The journey Blackwood took us on in this chapter of Kennas life was poetic in its brilliance. Conspiracies, battles, thievery, balls, magic, romance and so much more! This book kept me on my toes, that's for sure. And that finale! Tense, gripping and downright shocking. I don't know how it's possible for each book in this series to surprise me that little bit more but Blackwood pulls it off and then some! I am so ready for book 4!
December 15, 2021
This book is the third in the traitor spy series. I highly recommend reading the first two before this one.
I liked this book. And I would recommend it. Heck I’ll even read it again. I just feel like it didn’t start grabbing at me until the end. I wanted to give it 4.5 but gave it the 5 because I really do enjoy this story. I’m excited for the next installment and finding out what becomes of Kenna. I wanna see her take the crown so badly. Marion has created characters that I’m invested in and and an intriguing story that will keep me coming back for more.
Im going to be honest this was not my favorite of the three so far but I would still recommend because it is a good book just in my opinion not as strong as the first two - at least not until the end but every series has one or two books that just aren’t as strong as all the others. That being said I am still a super fan of this series/author and can’t wait to see where she takes us next.
I liked this book. And I would recommend it. Heck I’ll even read it again. I just feel like it didn’t start grabbing at me until the end. I wanted to give it 4.5 but gave it the 5 because I really do enjoy this story. I’m excited for the next installment and finding out what becomes of Kenna. I wanna see her take the crown so badly. Marion has created characters that I’m invested in and and an intriguing story that will keep me coming back for more.
Im going to be honest this was not my favorite of the three so far but I would still recommend because it is a good book just in my opinion not as strong as the first two - at least not until the end but every series has one or two books that just aren’t as strong as all the others. That being said I am still a super fan of this series/author and can’t wait to see where she takes us next.
December 19, 2021
OH MY GOD.
What the hell happened.
It was so so good to be back in Kenna and Mordren's story. And they finally gave in to each others feelings! I've been waiting for exactly this moment. You don't know how loud I squealed when the kissed. Oh it was so so good! The intensity between Kenna and Mordren is freaking good.
The plot. The plot was so good. In every book we read about a new court and everything about it. Which is super amazing!
The characters are so so well written. Everytime I read about Valery I automatically smile. She's that contagious. The relationship between Mordren, Elian and Ellyda and her brother is so pure and it's amazing that Kenna has more people at her side. Can we talk about Elian's power. Let me say it because I DID NOT EXPECT IT. I couldn't expect it. Not even in my dreams!
Ahh it was so amazing to read it! Can't wait to see how Kenna survives and what will Mordren do to save her!
What the hell happened.
It was so so good to be back in Kenna and Mordren's story. And they finally gave in to each others feelings! I've been waiting for exactly this moment. You don't know how loud I squealed when the kissed. Oh it was so so good! The intensity between Kenna and Mordren is freaking good.
The plot. The plot was so good. In every book we read about a new court and everything about it. Which is super amazing!
The characters are so so well written. Everytime I read about Valery I automatically smile. She's that contagious. The relationship between Mordren, Elian and Ellyda and her brother is so pure and it's amazing that Kenna has more people at her side. Can we talk about Elian's power. Let me say it because I DID NOT EXPECT IT. I couldn't expect it. Not even in my dreams!
Ahh it was so amazing to read it! Can't wait to see how Kenna survives and what will Mordren do to save her!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 28, 2021
Just Wow. have you ever felt like," yes, finally, I've started to unravel the authors thinking process, and can see where the ending is going", and after reading ALL the previous books of Marion Blackwood (including bonus scenes) , and having read UF, paranormal, so on for years, I was expecting a certain turn of events.
But, what happened was, I was expecting a turn, and this book, just pulled the rug from under me. Like wow, Authors do surprise me, a lot and I enjoy reading for the romance and adventure, But this series, everything is in spades.
Romance 5/5
Plot 5/5
Side Characters 5/5
World Building 5/5
Will I be desperately waiting for the next book in this series- YES
What I don't like about this book- The next one only comes out after approx. 2 months. I need The Fire Soul faster.
December 29, 2021
So freakin good! Three words that sum up this book pretty accurately if I do say so myself.
In The Beautiful Liar Kenna’s adjusting to her new life of freedom, and trying to answer the complicated question of what to do now. Meanwhile she has to stay 2 steps ahead of Mordren, the Prince of Shadows who’s eager to get revenge for being poisoned, among other slights. As you start thinking this will most likely be the main plot of the book things take a interesting turn, Kenna gets hired by
the Shadow Court to help scheme to kill Prince Volkan so Mordren can take over the Fire Court. Add in a unexpected visit from High elves who once’s enslaved there kind and u got a recipe for tension and mystery. So be prepared for a fascinating battle of wits, some hot tension, death defying scheming, romance, unlikely friendships, and a steep price.
I won’t spoil the crazy twist ending (which Marion is famous for) but I will say I’m chomping at the bit to see what book 4 has in store!
In The Beautiful Liar Kenna’s adjusting to her new life of freedom, and trying to answer the complicated question of what to do now. Meanwhile she has to stay 2 steps ahead of Mordren, the Prince of Shadows who’s eager to get revenge for being poisoned, among other slights. As you start thinking this will most likely be the main plot of the book things take a interesting turn, Kenna gets hired by
the Shadow Court to help scheme to kill Prince Volkan so Mordren can take over the Fire Court. Add in a unexpected visit from High elves who once’s enslaved there kind and u got a recipe for tension and mystery. So be prepared for a fascinating battle of wits, some hot tension, death defying scheming, romance, unlikely friendships, and a steep price.
I won’t spoil the crazy twist ending (which Marion is famous for) but I will say I’m chomping at the bit to see what book 4 has in store!
January 22, 2022
Marion Blackwood manages to outdo herself with every book in the Court of Elves series. These books have become one of my favourite series, and I am obsessed with this story. Marion's writing is perfectly paced and each book in this series has had me hooked right from the start until the very end.
The Beautiful Liar is my favourite of the series so far. It continues with the slow burn while giving readers a bit of a reprieve. It has some of the intricate scheming and plotting that Kenna is known for, and it sets up the next book in the series perfectly. As per usual, we are left desperate to get our hands on the next book in the series!!
If you are a fan of morally grey characters, slow burn romance, enemies to lovers, badass fight scenes, kickass female characters or sexy princes, this series is for you.
The Beautiful Liar is my favourite of the series so far. It continues with the slow burn while giving readers a bit of a reprieve. It has some of the intricate scheming and plotting that Kenna is known for, and it sets up the next book in the series perfectly. As per usual, we are left desperate to get our hands on the next book in the series!!
If you are a fan of morally grey characters, slow burn romance, enemies to lovers, badass fight scenes, kickass female characters or sexy princes, this series is for you.
January 14, 2022
Yet again, Marion has delivered another breathtakingly beautiful book in part of another fantastic series.
I'm totally enamoured by Mordren, he's dark and mysterious but I get the impression that he could be a bit of a softy if given the chance (away from the eyes of the public ofc! 😉).
This installment of the Court of Elves has a slightly faster pace than the previous 2 while still having the same *I can't turn the pages fast enough* quality.
I had this review all planned out in my head, with fancy words and maybe a quote or 2 and now after the heart jarring ending, it all snuffed out and disappeared in a puff of breath. Kudos Marion! Kudos!
Can't wait to get my grubby little fingers on book 4! 😍
I'm totally enamoured by Mordren, he's dark and mysterious but I get the impression that he could be a bit of a softy if given the chance (away from the eyes of the public ofc! 😉).
This installment of the Court of Elves has a slightly faster pace than the previous 2 while still having the same *I can't turn the pages fast enough* quality.
I had this review all planned out in my head, with fancy words and maybe a quote or 2 and now after the heart jarring ending, it all snuffed out and disappeared in a puff of breath. Kudos Marion! Kudos!
Can't wait to get my grubby little fingers on book 4! 😍
September 16, 2022
Entertaining
And quite well done fightscenes. I really like the twisted intrigues of the courts. This series would have been a solid 5star if it had been better edited. If you write good enough for this level and able to produce so and so many books in one series, then you really should know not to use the exact same phrases repeatedly in the same type of scene. Enough so that you notice it already in the first two (3)books...because of this I don't think I'll finish this anytime soon because it actually really annoyed me to the point of the story stuttering , in spite of liking it, so kind of like more annoyed, cheated and disappointed. How do you miss something like that?! Sorry author...
And quite well done fightscenes. I really like the twisted intrigues of the courts. This series would have been a solid 5star if it had been better edited. If you write good enough for this level and able to produce so and so many books in one series, then you really should know not to use the exact same phrases repeatedly in the same type of scene. Enough so that you notice it already in the first two (3)books...because of this I don't think I'll finish this anytime soon because it actually really annoyed me to the point of the story stuttering , in spite of liking it, so kind of like more annoyed, cheated and disappointed. How do you miss something like that?! Sorry author...
February 5, 2023
She’s so freakin cool. So. Cool.
I absolutely have been wanting to read about a scheming, cunning, beautiful woman. I want to see her wield power. I want to see her succeed.
This heroine right here? The best.
It is difficult for me personally to understand her ambition because I have a lack of it, but what I can understand is everything else.
I must admit, I became a little disheartened seeing where the plot was going romance-wise, but by the end? I’m am 100% in.
I need this woman to shine like nothing else. I need her to rule all. And I am so here, watching the whole story evolve.
Love this 100%
Oh? And her two thief friends? Hilarious! I need more of them in her life.
I absolutely have been wanting to read about a scheming, cunning, beautiful woman. I want to see her wield power. I want to see her succeed.
This heroine right here? The best.
It is difficult for me personally to understand her ambition because I have a lack of it, but what I can understand is everything else.
I must admit, I became a little disheartened seeing where the plot was going romance-wise, but by the end? I’m am 100% in.
I need this woman to shine like nothing else. I need her to rule all. And I am so here, watching the whole story evolve.
Love this 100%
Oh? And her two thief friends? Hilarious! I need more of them in her life.
July 1, 2025
It is a twisted tale .
I had no idea about the ending, I knew it would not be that simple, but what a twist. Kenna constantly shocks me regarding her decisions. She has grown a lot since the beginning, and Mordren has so much to do with that. Their tangled relationship is complicated, and the sexual tension between them could be cut with a knife. They are so alike it is scary. Her family is tragically broken, parents who sold her into slavery and did nothing to help her. Valerie and Theo sound like a wonderful pair, great thieves, and friends. I am really enjoying this series so far.
I had no idea about the ending, I knew it would not be that simple, but what a twist. Kenna constantly shocks me regarding her decisions. She has grown a lot since the beginning, and Mordren has so much to do with that. Their tangled relationship is complicated, and the sexual tension between them could be cut with a knife. They are so alike it is scary. Her family is tragically broken, parents who sold her into slavery and did nothing to help her. Valerie and Theo sound like a wonderful pair, great thieves, and friends. I am really enjoying this series so far.
December 15, 2021
OH MY WORD! I am on serious book hangover because I stayed up until midnight finishing this book. I could not put it down! The progression of Kenna and Mordren’s relationship is to die for! For me the scene stealers in many of the chapters were the secondary characters, especially Valerie, Theo and the High Elves. Marion does leave us in a little bit of suspense…ok a lot of suspense! These books are so well written and thought out that every plot in the story line flows seamlessly together. I am serious you need to read this series!
December 28, 2021
Thank you so much to the author for a copy of the eARC in exchange for an honest review!
Each book in this series just gets better and better as more scheming and plotting takes place and we see Kenna deal with the consequences. I love the way the plot builds on the events of each book and we slowly see the result of it as the story progresses. It's a slow burn but oh so satisfying. I think this third one is my favourite book so far, because now I've gotten more attached to the characters and the things I've hoped for have finally happened! I cannot wait to read the next one!!
Each book in this series just gets better and better as more scheming and plotting takes place and we see Kenna deal with the consequences. I love the way the plot builds on the events of each book and we slowly see the result of it as the story progresses. It's a slow burn but oh so satisfying. I think this third one is my favourite book so far, because now I've gotten more attached to the characters and the things I've hoped for have finally happened! I cannot wait to read the next one!!
December 28, 2021
Love her writing
I love the way she writes and brings the characters to life. I always fall into the world and the characters, she has the ability to make them come alive. I must say most writers by the third book they have dragged everything out so long I'm waiting for them to tie everything up. Not with her she has the ability to keep me hooked on the characters and schemes.
I love the way she writes and brings the characters to life. I always fall into the world and the characters, she has the ability to make them come alive. I must say most writers by the third book they have dragged everything out so long I'm waiting for them to tie everything up. Not with her she has the ability to keep me hooked on the characters and schemes.
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