She is the weapon of kings. The question is, who will wield her?
Princess Narine has known war practically her whole life. Her father has spent years training her to be his perfect weapon in the war against the rebellious New Kingdom. Perhaps, some might say, neglecting to teach her how to rule. But when an attempt to assassinate their enemy’s heir goes horribly wrong, Narine finds herself imprisoned by the newly crowned King Reynland and he’s not quite what she expected.
But she escapes, or perhaps is let go… Safely back in her own kingdom, she starts to question everything she’s known. The true depths of her father’s cruelty make themselves known, and she decides that the only way to save her people might be to join forces with the one person she shouldn’t trust.
From the author of the "In Shadows" series comes a decades-long war, growing passions, and a looming betrayal in this adult fantasy romance novel for fans of Leigh Bardugo, Sarah J Maas, and Holly Black.
The plot was promising but I feel that the pacing was off, certain plot points weren't fleshed out enough, and the character relationships fizzled. The romance was keeping me interested at first, but there was nothing special about it the characters didn't really behave naturally throughout it. There were also times where the perspective was confusing; for the most part it's third person semi omniscient, with Narine being the character whose feelings and thoughts we have the most insight into. However, there were moments where other characters inner thoughts were described, in a way that made it unclear if Narine was aware of their intentions or not.
On a smaller note, I was a bit disappointed that there seemed like there would be a moment where a specific event from Narine's past would be revealed or told to Reynland, but it never happened.
It would have also been nice if the book had delved more into the magic system and world building.
I loved this from start to finish! I loved that it had every element of a fantasy novel that I enjoy, whilst only being a stand-alone. There aren't many stand-alone fantasy books, and I really enjoyed this one. Great story from start to finish, and I don't have to wait a year to know how it ends.
I loved the relationship between Narine and Reyn, I loved their dynamic. I thought the characters that were important were likeable, e.g., Theo, Katya, etc. I feel they could've had a bit more of an identity. However, this for me didn't lessen my love for the book.
I would've loved to read more about these characters, but I am also glad that I have loved their story and have left them where they are.
2.5 stars. This was fine, it was very middle of the road. It started out very interesting and I liked the main characters and setup but unfortunately it didn't continue that way. The characters felt like they were never fully developed and as much as I want to find standalone fantasy's it felt rushed. Unfortunately because I didn't feel like I knew the characters I didn't care when things were happening which is why I can't rate it any higher. I'm glad I finished it and it was overall a decent ending but it did feel a little lackluster even though it was wrapped up. TBH it just left me wanting more.
Loved this book from start to finish! It’s a great enemies to lovers fantasy book to cozy up with. I especially loved that the female love interest was always ready to fight for what she believed in regardless of it’s effects on her romance.
My favorite Sutton book! Something about the fantasy setting really hooked me and had me running through the story. I had such visceral reactions to every twist and turn. I’ll continue to follow Sutton’s career, but it’ll be hard to top Heirs of War!