What do you think?
Rate this book
Dawn of the White Witch
Given the choice between him and the hangman’s noose… She’d pick the noose.
Abandoned by her human father to be raised among the fae healers of Duje, half-breed Katya prefers to keep to the shadows and far away from her stepfather’s cane. When he is suddenly called to court, her stepfather forces Katya to come along and spy on the crown. His instructions are simple: watch, listen and don’t get killed.
But nothing about court life is simple, and Katya soon finds herself thrust into the center of a political storm, her every move monitored by the prince’s fearsome head of guard, Aemon Cregg.
Aemon is as deadly as he is beautiful. He’s also cocky, hotheaded, and intent on infuriating Katya any chance he gets. But though he sets her temper aflame, the heat that burns between them is undeniable.
Yet even Aemon can’t protect her when the king calls for Katya’s arrest. Terrified and alone, she taps into a forbidden magic to escape. Now, she's running for her life, and Aemon is hot on her trail.
But in the depths of the mountains, an even more insidious threat awaits, one that will bring into question everything Katya thought she knew about her kingdom, her people and herself.
Dawn of the White Witch is the first book in a dark, fantasy romance series, perfect for readers who enjoy steamy romance, unique magic systems, morally gray heroes, witty banter, and political intrigue. This enemies-to-lovers romantasy will appeal to fans of The Serpent and the Wings of Night, From Blood and Ash and A Court of Thorns and Roses.
Abandoned by her human father to be raised among the fae healers of Duje, half-breed Katya prefers to keep to the shadows and far away from her stepfather’s cane. When he is suddenly called to court, her stepfather forces Katya to come along and spy on the crown. His instructions are simple: watch, listen and don’t get killed.
But nothing about court life is simple, and Katya soon finds herself thrust into the center of a political storm, her every move monitored by the prince’s fearsome head of guard, Aemon Cregg.
Aemon is as deadly as he is beautiful. He’s also cocky, hotheaded, and intent on infuriating Katya any chance he gets. But though he sets her temper aflame, the heat that burns between them is undeniable.
Yet even Aemon can’t protect her when the king calls for Katya’s arrest. Terrified and alone, she taps into a forbidden magic to escape. Now, she's running for her life, and Aemon is hot on her trail.
But in the depths of the mountains, an even more insidious threat awaits, one that will bring into question everything Katya thought she knew about her kingdom, her people and herself.
Dawn of the White Witch is the first book in a dark, fantasy romance series, perfect for readers who enjoy steamy romance, unique magic systems, morally gray heroes, witty banter, and political intrigue. This enemies-to-lovers romantasy will appeal to fans of The Serpent and the Wings of Night, From Blood and Ash and A Court of Thorns and Roses.
452 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 31, 2024
355 people are currently reading
2253 people want to read
About the author
C.R. Lee
9 books78 followersC. R. Lee is a writer of fantasy and romance filled with drama, humor and a whole lot of steam. She prides herself on creating troubled yet compelling characters, then putting them through hell for your entertainment.
You’re welcome.
But no matter how cruel she may be, rest assured, all of her books are guaranteed to have a HEA.
C. R. Lee currently lives in North Carolina with her husband, two children, two dogs, a cat, and a leopard gecko. When she’s not writing, she enjoys reading and drinking copious amounts of coffee-preferably at the same time.
You’re welcome.
But no matter how cruel she may be, rest assured, all of her books are guaranteed to have a HEA.
C. R. Lee currently lives in North Carolina with her husband, two children, two dogs, a cat, and a leopard gecko. When she’s not writing, she enjoys reading and drinking copious amounts of coffee-preferably at the same time.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
September 4, 2024
2.75 rounded up⭐️
This started slowly, got kinda decent in the middle.. and then went downhill again.
So the FMC was kinda bland and I did not vibe with her. The MMC was likeable enough. I enjoyed their banter and the fact he had to chase her a bit, BUT by the end, the author keeps telling me they are in love, each others other half blah blah but it did not feel that way. It was too rushed, it felt silly. Especially given how the book ends..
The plot was repetitive, some parts intrigued me but it there just wasn’t any real depth to it, it felt like something I’ve read before.
Overall, I think someone who was just starting out in fantasy might enjoy this? I don’t think I’ll be reading the second book because I just wasn’t invested enough by the end.
It’s on kindle unlimited💫
This started slowly, got kinda decent in the middle.. and then went downhill again.
So the FMC was kinda bland and I did not vibe with her. The MMC was likeable enough. I enjoyed their banter and the fact he had to chase her a bit, BUT by the end, the author keeps telling me they are in love, each others other half blah blah but it did not feel that way. It was too rushed, it felt silly. Especially given how the book ends..
The plot was repetitive, some parts intrigued me but it there just wasn’t any real depth to it, it felt like something I’ve read before.
Overall, I think someone who was just starting out in fantasy might enjoy this? I don’t think I’ll be reading the second book because I just wasn’t invested enough by the end.
It’s on kindle unlimited💫
August 30, 2024
TOP 3 FAV READ OF THE YEAR!
I’m so honored to get to ARC read this book in exchange for an honest review. This book had me SAT and I ATE every piece of this up. Left no crumbs.
If you loved the banter and trials in Powerless, the plot and trials of Throne of Glass, and the witchy angst of Heartless Hunter, you’re going to LOVE this new dark fantasy romance. Please please please pick it up and read it!
Thank me later
I’m so honored to get to ARC read this book in exchange for an honest review. This book had me SAT and I ATE every piece of this up. Left no crumbs.
If you loved the banter and trials in Powerless, the plot and trials of Throne of Glass, and the witchy angst of Heartless Hunter, you’re going to LOVE this new dark fantasy romance. Please please please pick it up and read it!
Thank me later
August 25, 2024
Such an awesome read!
”There’s just something about her that calls to me. I can’t ignore it. I don’t know how to.”
When Katya Valstrad’s eyes first meet those of Aemon Cregg, the moment is electric for both of them. However, they stand on opposite sides of a political agenda. This story was pacy, intense and so engrossing. It’s a constant push and pull between them, all the while their feelings are growing. As the story progresses, we learn much about them and their gifts, although Katya has the biggest journey of all as she finds her true calling.
”You will always belong to me, and I will worship you until my dying breath.”
I adored the fire between them - they were passionate, stubborn, courageous. So much was thrown at them both and yet they fought their way through for one another. This author did a fantastic job of world building and I loved the Gladiator vibes in the story. I feel hugely invested in Katya and Aemon’s story and can’t wait for the next instalment.
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/customer-re...
”There’s just something about her that calls to me. I can’t ignore it. I don’t know how to.”
When Katya Valstrad’s eyes first meet those of Aemon Cregg, the moment is electric for both of them. However, they stand on opposite sides of a political agenda. This story was pacy, intense and so engrossing. It’s a constant push and pull between them, all the while their feelings are growing. As the story progresses, we learn much about them and their gifts, although Katya has the biggest journey of all as she finds her true calling.
”You will always belong to me, and I will worship you until my dying breath.”
I adored the fire between them - they were passionate, stubborn, courageous. So much was thrown at them both and yet they fought their way through for one another. This author did a fantastic job of world building and I loved the Gladiator vibes in the story. I feel hugely invested in Katya and Aemon’s story and can’t wait for the next instalment.
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/customer-re...
August 24, 2024
Amazing! Couldn’t put it down. Wasn’t sure what to expect with this book, but it went above and beyond anything I could have imagined!
So much happening from start to finish. Both MC are strong, smart characters with insecurities and doubts. Instant attraction, steamy moments, surprises and plot twists, adventure, secrets revealed and self discovery. No damsel in distress in this story, they come to each other’s rescue and help each other and are strong for each other when needed.
Fantasy, romance, suspense and a fight for their lives all wrapped in this perfect world that kept me frozen in place turning the pages until it was done and I was so satisfied and still want more!
So much happening from start to finish. Both MC are strong, smart characters with insecurities and doubts. Instant attraction, steamy moments, surprises and plot twists, adventure, secrets revealed and self discovery. No damsel in distress in this story, they come to each other’s rescue and help each other and are strong for each other when needed.
Fantasy, romance, suspense and a fight for their lives all wrapped in this perfect world that kept me frozen in place turning the pages until it was done and I was so satisfied and still want more!
September 24, 2024
I wanted to DNF at 50% and almost did at 80%. Im trying to think of something to say but I actually didn’t like any part of this.
The FMC refers to the MMC’s dick as a “thingy” three times and her own genitalia as “girly bits” and I’ve never read anything more offensive in my life.
The FMC refers to the MMC’s dick as a “thingy” three times and her own genitalia as “girly bits” and I’ve never read anything more offensive in my life.
July 22, 2024
couldn’t put it down!
August 17, 2024
Review coming soon ☺️
dnfs
November 17, 2024i don’t want to be mean but unfortunately, this was not a hidden gem. i made it 52 pages in and nothing has happened. if it was because of world building i’d understand, but there wasn’t much of that either. the writing style didn’t work for me. decided to just dnf and move on to the next
August 25, 2024
Utterly brilliant
This is such an epic story, I cannot wait for book two! From the first page I was captivated. The story instantly grabbed my attention and wove it’s spell. Full of action, intrigue, mystery, tragedy, suspense, violence and emotion. It sweeps you from small town life to Royal palaces, to dungeons, slave mines and gladiator arenas.
You meet devoted families, power hungry leaders, struggling captives, hidden rebels and through it all Katya and Aemon fight. For acceptance, survival, revenge, each other and love.
The characters are multi-layered, emotionally complex and continually evolving.
Katya is all kinds of brilliance. From an abused child, a scholar, a magic-less half mage, loving daughter and sister, unwilling spy, instant friend, to finding out she is all kinds of different and powerful. She’s innocent and naive but quickly learns she has an inner strength that she desperately needs when her whole world turns upside down.
Aemon at first appears to be an arrogant guard, close to the heir apparent, but he shows his protective inner heart and his belief of justice. We see he has hidden skills and his own story to tell.
The chemistry between them is undeniable, full of banter, a battle of stubborn wills and a innate sense of trust and compulsion to save each other. The romance blooms as they survive numerous hardships, only to leave the reader filled with heartbreak as we approach the epilogue.
Murder, betrayal, secrets, lies, mistrust, cover-ups and a whole Royal power struggle are an underlying background to the real story of Katya finding out who and what she truly is.
This is a new side to Ms Lee and I can’t wait to see where the journey and our star-crossed lovers go next.
This is such an epic story, I cannot wait for book two! From the first page I was captivated. The story instantly grabbed my attention and wove it’s spell. Full of action, intrigue, mystery, tragedy, suspense, violence and emotion. It sweeps you from small town life to Royal palaces, to dungeons, slave mines and gladiator arenas.
You meet devoted families, power hungry leaders, struggling captives, hidden rebels and through it all Katya and Aemon fight. For acceptance, survival, revenge, each other and love.
The characters are multi-layered, emotionally complex and continually evolving.
Katya is all kinds of brilliance. From an abused child, a scholar, a magic-less half mage, loving daughter and sister, unwilling spy, instant friend, to finding out she is all kinds of different and powerful. She’s innocent and naive but quickly learns she has an inner strength that she desperately needs when her whole world turns upside down.
Aemon at first appears to be an arrogant guard, close to the heir apparent, but he shows his protective inner heart and his belief of justice. We see he has hidden skills and his own story to tell.
The chemistry between them is undeniable, full of banter, a battle of stubborn wills and a innate sense of trust and compulsion to save each other. The romance blooms as they survive numerous hardships, only to leave the reader filled with heartbreak as we approach the epilogue.
Murder, betrayal, secrets, lies, mistrust, cover-ups and a whole Royal power struggle are an underlying background to the real story of Katya finding out who and what she truly is.
This is a new side to Ms Lee and I can’t wait to see where the journey and our star-crossed lovers go next.
August 24, 2024
I was captivated from start to finish. The imaginative world building, the sense of urgency, and the depth of the characters kept me entranced. I didn’t want to know what happened next, I needed it like my next breath. I was immersed in the storyline, my heart pounding, palms sweating, and plucking the strings of attraction between the main characters.
Katya has deep inner strength and determination, I loved watching her use those things to continually become a better version of herself.
Aemon had my heart and mind in a twist. Do we trust him? Do we lust for him? Do we hate him? Picking through his web was equally frustrating as it was exciting.
This fantasy book has blown me away and pining away for book two. I can hardly stand it, conjuring all the characters next moves in my mind, because I just can’t stop obsessing over it.
Katya has deep inner strength and determination, I loved watching her use those things to continually become a better version of herself.
Aemon had my heart and mind in a twist. Do we trust him? Do we lust for him? Do we hate him? Picking through his web was equally frustrating as it was exciting.
This fantasy book has blown me away and pining away for book two. I can hardly stand it, conjuring all the characters next moves in my mind, because I just can’t stop obsessing over it.
July 2, 2024
It was another world completely, but a good one. I was totally into it, did not expect it, but the magic worked. Katja and every member of her family thought , that she had no power whatsoever, but actually she had a pretty nifty one, just wished she could have mastert it much better. I liked, that she was a tough girl, and not a cry baby. Aemon and she came in some heavy situations and had to do everything to survive. All in all a really good new series, sometimes it was a bit hard to read with all the new words, but really cool, the end was kind of open.
July 12, 2024
Heat level: 2.5/5. This was a new to me author and I LOVED this story! The world, the story, and the characters were very interesting and kept me turning those pages. I can't wait to read the next one of this new series! One of my favorite things in this is how the main characters keep saving each other's lives. She is not your ordinary damsel in distress. I enjoy slow burns especially when it's enemies to lovers. The tension between them boiled over a couple of times and had me feral for more. I'm all in for this ride! I'm excited to read what happens next.
May 27, 2025
1st Fantasy
This was my first dab into fantasy and what a great choice! I did the audiobook along with Kindle and it worked great for me. This book will leave you on a cliffhanger for book 2 which I can't wait for. For an easy fantasy read to get you into this genre go pick up Dawn of the White Witch!
This was my first dab into fantasy and what a great choice! I did the audiobook along with Kindle and it worked great for me. This book will leave you on a cliffhanger for book 2 which I can't wait for. For an easy fantasy read to get you into this genre go pick up Dawn of the White Witch!
August 18, 2025
Genre: Dark Romantasy
⭐️ 3.75/5
🌶 2/5
🧠 5/10
🎵 Closer by Nine Inch Nails
Noteworthy: Late industrial era fantasy. Book 1 of an incomplete series. Dual POV. Multiple content warnings, including SA and DV.
Nooooooo.. I did not see that plot twist at the end coming. My heart! 😭 I went into this book not knowing what to expect, and I'm glad I went in blind. There were things I loved and things I didn't vibe with so much.
Things I loved.
The setting. It was inspired by the late industrial revolution time period with trains, top hats, and 6 shooters. This feels like a rarity in fantasy, and I instantly loved it.
The MMC Aemon. He is very Flynn Rider coded to me. Attractive , confident, charismatic, with bad boy vibes masking all he's been through just to survive. Has he done bad things? Yes. Is he a bad person? No. I just loved everything about him!
The FMC Katya. I loved her from start to finish. She was strong but vulnerable with so much room to grow. She made choices I didn't agree with, but I fully understood why. Her journey is far from over, and I'm in it for the long hall.
The magic. The stones represented by the minor gods and houses are very cool.
The ending. I loved how it made so much sense and left us looking over the cliff instead of fighting for our lives. I wish more authors would do it like this honestly.
Things I didn't vibe with.
The under the mountain portion lasts so long. I understand the importance of it, but it took up so much of the story. I was almost ready to start skimming, but I am glad that I didn't.
The language. It felt a little too modern at times. It's not over the top but just somewhat. Enough to make me feel it.
Lack of knowledge. I know this was only a dual pov, but I would have loved knowing what was going on at the palace later in the book. Although I'm confident we will get that info in book 2.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book more than I expected. I think because I went in blind, my bar was set low. I will be jumping right into book 2!
⭐️ 3.75/5
🌶 2/5
🧠 5/10
🎵 Closer by Nine Inch Nails
Noteworthy: Late industrial era fantasy. Book 1 of an incomplete series. Dual POV. Multiple content warnings, including SA and DV.
Nooooooo.. I did not see that plot twist at the end coming. My heart! 😭 I went into this book not knowing what to expect, and I'm glad I went in blind. There were things I loved and things I didn't vibe with so much.
Things I loved.
The setting. It was inspired by the late industrial revolution time period with trains, top hats, and 6 shooters. This feels like a rarity in fantasy, and I instantly loved it.
The MMC Aemon. He is very Flynn Rider coded to me. Attractive , confident, charismatic, with bad boy vibes masking all he's been through just to survive. Has he done bad things? Yes. Is he a bad person? No. I just loved everything about him!
The FMC Katya. I loved her from start to finish. She was strong but vulnerable with so much room to grow. She made choices I didn't agree with, but I fully understood why. Her journey is far from over, and I'm in it for the long hall.
The magic. The stones represented by the minor gods and houses are very cool.
The ending. I loved how it made so much sense and left us looking over the cliff instead of fighting for our lives. I wish more authors would do it like this honestly.
Things I didn't vibe with.
The under the mountain portion lasts so long. I understand the importance of it, but it took up so much of the story. I was almost ready to start skimming, but I am glad that I didn't.
The language. It felt a little too modern at times. It's not over the top but just somewhat. Enough to make me feel it.
Lack of knowledge. I know this was only a dual pov, but I would have loved knowing what was going on at the palace later in the book. Although I'm confident we will get that info in book 2.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book more than I expected. I think because I went in blind, my bar was set low. I will be jumping right into book 2!
July 7, 2024
This fantasy book has a magic and gladiator vibe. Katya is a young woman who's stubborn, sassy, and full of curiosity. She meets an older and charming captain of the Kings army, Aemon ! It's sparks at first glance, and it's true when they say opposite do attract! Aemon wants to protect Katya from her abusive stepfather, the king, and herself, but again, she is stubborn and lets everyone around her know it. Katya and Aemon both help each other find their way through an unbelievable situation when they get captured by a ruthless tribe. This has a few slow burns to a few heated moments that make it worth waiting for.
I can't wait for book two to see what happens to Aemon and Katya in their world of magic and cruelty!!
I can't wait for book two to see what happens to Aemon and Katya in their world of magic and cruelty!!
August 25, 2024
Excellent!!
Right away this story captured my attention and I was invested until the end!
It checked off all my boxes and more!
Filled with adventure, danger, mystery, and even betrayal. It also brought out so many feelings.
I loved Katya. She is intelligent and innocent, but she grows into so much more.
The chemistry between Katya and Aemon was so good. The banter, the tension, and romance. I can't wait to see what happens between them in the next book.
Right away this story captured my attention and I was invested until the end!
It checked off all my boxes and more!
Filled with adventure, danger, mystery, and even betrayal. It also brought out so many feelings.
I loved Katya. She is intelligent and innocent, but she grows into so much more.
The chemistry between Katya and Aemon was so good. The banter, the tension, and romance. I can't wait to see what happens between them in the next book.
August 28, 2024
I had never read anything by this author before but so glad I did! This was C.R. Lee's first fantasy book and I absolutely loved it! I was hooked from the start to finish! It is a slow burn that has a few steamy scenes leaving you wanting more!
I'm invested in Aemon and Katya's story and absolutely need to know the next phase for them!
I'm invested in Aemon and Katya's story and absolutely need to know the next phase for them!
March 9, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ interesting magic system! The chemistry was 🔥🔥
I can’t wait for the next book where I think the FMC will really be strong and independent.
I can’t wait for the next book where I think the FMC will really be strong and independent.
March 23, 2025
It just kept going
At about 30% in I thought it was the end of the book, so that was a nice surprise. Twists, twists, twists. The end of the book made me sad. Reveal of why the title is what it is was neat.
At about 30% in I thought it was the end of the book, so that was a nice surprise. Twists, twists, twists. The end of the book made me sad. Reveal of why the title is what it is was neat.
May 8, 2025
This was in desperate need of an editor and multiple rounds of editing. Dialogue, continuity, pacing, etc needed more consideration. Some interesting ideas at first but not enough to distract from poor writing.
January 14, 2025
HELLO?? THAT ENDING??? i think by the time i reached the 90% mark i was just screaming "what?" and "oh my god" over and over again like help i wasn't ready for that??? but omg this was actually way better than i thought it would be, i literally started and finished it all in one day. like i wasn't even planning on writing a review but like the Thoughts became to strong to keep to myself. anyways i would die for aemon i love him so much, that is all.
August 28, 2024
This story grabs your attention from the start. It's dark, mysterious, romantic, and has edge of your seat action that plays out in your head like a movie in your mind. It also has parts that are laugh out loud funny to break the tenaion. So well written and I didn't see the twists coming. Can't wait for the next!
July 31, 2024
Excellent fantasy book! Loved the banter between the two main characters. Constant action with no dull moments within the book. Loved the character development and the changes they go through throughout the book. Can’t wait for the next book to continue the journey.
August 6, 2024
This book. Mannnn. It kept me hooked the entire time. I stayed up way too late reading it, and slept just to wake up and pick it up again. Story was amazing. Details were on point. GREAT read. Can not wait to read the second one. Thank you so much for such an amazing read.
September 27, 2024
What a ride! I am not the target audience for this because I am a fantasy reader primarily and not a romance reader. Dawn of the White Witch is definitely a romance, with prickly MCs who drive each other crazy in fun ways. I don't know much about spice levels and the expectations of romance, so I'll just say that the leads are maddeningly stubborn and sparky and leave it at that.
But in reading this story, it is clear that dark fantasy is where CR Lee's passion thrives.
To me the heart of this story is the fantasy, which honors the genre yet goes in some unexpected directions. The FMC Katya is, quite simply, run through the wringer. Every time I thought I knew what the plot is, it takes another turn into a new situation that is just as complicated and high-stakes as the last one Katya just got out of. I found myself rooting for her in a different way at each step of a harrowing journey. Katya goes through real character growth that you can almost see changing through the ink on the page. And although the story foreshadows the twists, I still found myself constantly surprised by where CR Lee took things.
The pace is equally unexpected. I found it patient and measured at times, and careening wildly at others, which goes along with the overall theme of "don't get too comfortable." Whenever I thought I had the book figured out, I found myself reading an entirely different, yet cohesive, story within a few pages. At each new setting and twist, I always felt that CR Lee had a clear vision for where she was taking Katya. All the seeds of the finale were there from the start, which gives the ending a satisfying cohesion.
Dark fantasy can get really grim and desolate, and there are definitely grim themes here that are provocative. But I never felt buried under darkness for darkness's sake. The grit is part of the world and the characters, and is explored with respect for the reader.
If you're looking for a story that gives equal weight to romance and fantasy you'll find what you're looking for in this book.
But in reading this story, it is clear that dark fantasy is where CR Lee's passion thrives.
To me the heart of this story is the fantasy, which honors the genre yet goes in some unexpected directions. The FMC Katya is, quite simply, run through the wringer. Every time I thought I knew what the plot is, it takes another turn into a new situation that is just as complicated and high-stakes as the last one Katya just got out of. I found myself rooting for her in a different way at each step of a harrowing journey. Katya goes through real character growth that you can almost see changing through the ink on the page. And although the story foreshadows the twists, I still found myself constantly surprised by where CR Lee took things.
The pace is equally unexpected. I found it patient and measured at times, and careening wildly at others, which goes along with the overall theme of "don't get too comfortable." Whenever I thought I had the book figured out, I found myself reading an entirely different, yet cohesive, story within a few pages. At each new setting and twist, I always felt that CR Lee had a clear vision for where she was taking Katya. All the seeds of the finale were there from the start, which gives the ending a satisfying cohesion.
Dark fantasy can get really grim and desolate, and there are definitely grim themes here that are provocative. But I never felt buried under darkness for darkness's sake. The grit is part of the world and the characters, and is explored with respect for the reader.
If you're looking for a story that gives equal weight to romance and fantasy you'll find what you're looking for in this book.
August 24, 2024
Dawn of the White Witch by CR Lee is the first book in a new dark romantasy series Kingdoms of Light and Shadow. For her debut fantasy novel, I have to say that CR Lee has knocked it out of the park with this amazing story. If you try just one new fantasy author this year, PICK THIS ONE!!! This book is fantastic, and if this is her first attempt at writing fantasies, I am ALL IN for anything she writes in the future! This is hands down the BEST fantasy book I have read this year.
First, this cover is GORGEOUS! It immediately caught my eye, and I honestly wanted to read it just based off of the cover alone. The world building is completely on point, just enough to paint a picture but not overwhelming you in the least. The characters and the plot definitely shine in the well written and fast paced story.
Katya is half breed with very few powers, but that doesn't stop her from being one bad*** female. She is awkward at times, but as the story progresses, her character's growth is incredible. Who doesn't love a morally gray man?? That is where Aemon comes in. He is brutal and cutthroat, but there is a whole other side to him that we see to him as the story unfolds.
The story grabs your attention from the very first pages and takes you on a whirlwind adventure with just enough banter between Katya and Aemon and definitely the right amount of spice and keeps you in its grasp until the very last pages. I am anxiously awaiting the arrival of book two and can't wait until I see where Katya and Aemon's story will progress.
I cannot say this enough - I LOVE LOVE LOVE this book! Go read it today and I promise, you won't be disappointed!
First, this cover is GORGEOUS! It immediately caught my eye, and I honestly wanted to read it just based off of the cover alone. The world building is completely on point, just enough to paint a picture but not overwhelming you in the least. The characters and the plot definitely shine in the well written and fast paced story.
Katya is half breed with very few powers, but that doesn't stop her from being one bad*** female. She is awkward at times, but as the story progresses, her character's growth is incredible. Who doesn't love a morally gray man?? That is where Aemon comes in. He is brutal and cutthroat, but there is a whole other side to him that we see to him as the story unfolds.
The story grabs your attention from the very first pages and takes you on a whirlwind adventure with just enough banter between Katya and Aemon and definitely the right amount of spice and keeps you in its grasp until the very last pages. I am anxiously awaiting the arrival of book two and can't wait until I see where Katya and Aemon's story will progress.
I cannot say this enough - I LOVE LOVE LOVE this book! Go read it today and I promise, you won't be disappointed!
April 12, 2025
Great start!
This was good. There's actual character development and world building, that's so rare anymore
Katya is an interesting character. She's intelligent but extremely naive. She's immature as hell, but I'll let that slide because she was really sheltered.
Aemon was also an interesting character, and I really appreciated that he was more than a caveman. He was still a caveman, but he did more than just pound his chest and scream, "Mine!" He also read as male instead of a twelve year old girl. Lee, you don't even know.... that was refreshing.
The repetitive plot devices were disappointing, and that's what kept this from being 5 stars. I understand that they were used to get the characters in the same vicinity, but you gotta keep things interesting instead of repeating scenes. And this hurt the book.
I like that there's two bad sides here, which allow for two fronts to be active at once. This isn't done often. I also like that Katya is a little morally grey. I kind of want to her rage out rather than go the goodie two shoes route.
Anyway, this exceeded my expectations and was a great start to a series. I'll definitely pick up the next one.
This was good. There's actual character development and world building, that's so rare anymore
Katya is an interesting character. She's intelligent but extremely naive. She's immature as hell, but I'll let that slide because she was really sheltered.
Aemon was also an interesting character, and I really appreciated that he was more than a caveman. He was still a caveman, but he did more than just pound his chest and scream, "Mine!" He also read as male instead of a twelve year old girl. Lee, you don't even know.... that was refreshing.
The repetitive plot devices were disappointing, and that's what kept this from being 5 stars. I understand that they were used to get the characters in the same vicinity, but you gotta keep things interesting instead of repeating scenes. And this hurt the book.
I like that there's two bad sides here, which allow for two fronts to be active at once. This isn't done often. I also like that Katya is a little morally grey. I kind of want to her rage out rather than go the goodie two shoes route.
Anyway, this exceeded my expectations and was a great start to a series. I'll definitely pick up the next one.
January 6, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
I liked it, I didn’t like it, I liked it again. A decent romantasy, interesting magic system. But this felt like 3 complete books in one:
- Court life: the one where Katya has to navigate the royal court as a spy for her abusive stepfather
- Fugitive on the run: the one where Katya unsuccessfully tries to escape Aemon, the sexy leader of the royal guard, and he’s bringing her back to the palace
- Underground vampire fae: the one where Katya and Aemon are captured by blood fae and forced into slavery, Aemon fighting in cage battles and Katya serving as a thrall
Idk, it was kinda fun, kinda exhausting. Katya takes so long to catch up to Aemon’s feelings and then OMG GUESS WHAT there’s a “big reveal” at the end that tears them apart and she rides off into the sunset, alone and feeling betrayed. So surprising - said no one.
I liked it, I didn’t like it, I liked it again. A decent romantasy, interesting magic system. But this felt like 3 complete books in one:
- Court life: the one where Katya has to navigate the royal court as a spy for her abusive stepfather
- Fugitive on the run: the one where Katya unsuccessfully tries to escape Aemon, the sexy leader of the royal guard, and he’s bringing her back to the palace
- Underground vampire fae: the one where Katya and Aemon are captured by blood fae and forced into slavery, Aemon fighting in cage battles and Katya serving as a thrall
Idk, it was kinda fun, kinda exhausting. Katya takes so long to catch up to Aemon’s feelings and then OMG GUESS WHAT there’s a “big reveal” at the end that tears them apart and she rides off into the sunset, alone and feeling betrayed. So surprising - said no one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 30, 2024
Fantasy romance with far, magic, humans and shifters.
Kayta has spent her whole life believing she’s inept whilst putting up with her step father’s abuse in order to be near her mother and little brother. She suddenly becomes useful to her step father and travels with him to the palace for a set of political meetings where he wants her to spy for him.
A framed murder sets off a catalyst of events in which Katya discovers her powers, romance, her real father and vengeance.
Well written and action paced story with romance on the side. FMC is naïve and clumsy but given her background that’s expected.
Oh and Aemon is the big grumpy head of security love interest - who is also not what he seems.
Does have potential trigger warnings for some.
Kayta has spent her whole life believing she’s inept whilst putting up with her step father’s abuse in order to be near her mother and little brother. She suddenly becomes useful to her step father and travels with him to the palace for a set of political meetings where he wants her to spy for him.
A framed murder sets off a catalyst of events in which Katya discovers her powers, romance, her real father and vengeance.
Well written and action paced story with romance on the side. FMC is naïve and clumsy but given her background that’s expected.
Oh and Aemon is the big grumpy head of security love interest - who is also not what he seems.
Does have potential trigger warnings for some.
August 19, 2025
Holy shit. I'm not even sure where to begin with this 5-star read. Our FMC Katya is a magi, but she doesn't have any magic of her own. When she's forced to go to the castle with her stepfather, she is given various magi. crystals from her mother in case of "emergencies." Little did Katya know that when she was 'mind walking' unintentionally that it would be into the Queen's own mind. This is where she sees Aemon Cregg, the king's guard, for the first time. The banter, angst, and longing between these two is quite apparent from the start. I was shipping for them to be together up until the last 3% of this book, where I was hit with a massive twist. Aemon made decisions that resulted in Katya leaving him, but I have a feeling they will find their way back to one another soon enough.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews