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The Nightmare Queen:
I will become assassin, queen, and monster to reclaim what is mine.
In the wake of the Neverseen King’s capture and my escape from the Wolf’s clutches, I venture into the depths of the Fae realm, armed with little but my own gritty determination to take back my husband and throne.
The clock is ticking, the destruction of Lulythinar drawing ever nearer, threatening to take what little I have left in this world. Enemies surround me on every side, but I will not let them win.
Even if it costs me my very life.
The Nightmare Queen is the romantic and epic conclusion to this fantasy romance trilogy of a tortured assassin and her dangerous fae husband, perfect for fans of The Serpent and the Wings of Night, Throne of Glass, and Powerless who love dark, swoon-worthy heroes and heart wrenching, slow-burn romance.
In the wake of the Neverseen King’s capture and my escape from the Wolf’s clutches, I venture into the depths of the Fae realm, armed with little but my own gritty determination to take back my husband and throne.
The clock is ticking, the destruction of Lulythinar drawing ever nearer, threatening to take what little I have left in this world. Enemies surround me on every side, but I will not let them win.
Even if it costs me my very life.
The Nightmare Queen is the romantic and epic conclusion to this fantasy romance trilogy of a tortured assassin and her dangerous fae husband, perfect for fans of The Serpent and the Wings of Night, Throne of Glass, and Powerless who love dark, swoon-worthy heroes and heart wrenching, slow-burn romance.
280 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 18, 2025
168 people are currently reading
373 people want to read
About the author
Anastasis Blythe
15 books527 followersAnastasis Blythe makes her home in central Texas with her husband. When she’s not writing, she gardens, accompanies local bands and choirs on piano, rescues feral cats, and tries to keep up with the laundry. She loves exploring the world through reading, walks in nature, and thoughtful conversations. You can find her on Instagram at @anastasisblythe and on her website at AnastasisBlythe.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
August 6, 2025
okay, totally devoured that! 5 stars!! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
⤷ first off, this is lusciously written. every description and word used here was perfect to the end. i was not disappointed, and there was never a cheesy part in this.
⤷ also LOVED how the author wrapped things up!
⤷ there is quite a bit of gore/blood/wounds/anything injury-related, so that may be a trigger to some.
⤷ Kaladen will always be dear, and Nadira handled things that came at her so well! the vines were also SO cute!!
⤷ i also really loved the Prince Trenian/Valehaven crossover, i read Bride of the Fae Prince first, but it really doesn't matter what order you read it in.
⤷ the plot twists, romance, and everything in between caught me SO off guard, superb!!! i was feeling so overwhelmed, and i wasn't even in the characters shoes!!
thank you SO much, Anastasis Blythe, for the eARC!! I REALLY appreciate it!!
⤷ first off, this is lusciously written. every description and word used here was perfect to the end. i was not disappointed, and there was never a cheesy part in this.
⤷ also LOVED how the author wrapped things up!
⤷ there is quite a bit of gore/blood/wounds/anything injury-related, so that may be a trigger to some.
⤷ Kaladen will always be dear, and Nadira handled things that came at her so well! the vines were also SO cute!!
⤷ i also really loved the Prince Trenian/Valehaven crossover, i read Bride of the Fae Prince first, but it really doesn't matter what order you read it in.
⤷ the plot twists, romance, and everything in between caught me SO off guard, superb!!! i was feeling so overwhelmed, and i wasn't even in the characters shoes!!
thank you SO much, Anastasis Blythe, for the eARC!! I REALLY appreciate it!!
November 23, 2025
Great option for no spice romantasy, and a satisfying end to the trilogy! Love a highly capable FMC and a MMC with enough insight into his own insecurities that he doesn’t limit her. Good stuff, fun for the fae romance girlies who want a PG rated romance with all the swoon-y vibes and none of the spice.
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August 19, 2025“If you must die, I would have it be in my arms. So I could hold you. So you would not be alone again. So you could feel safe as you passed from this life to the next.”
The Neverseen King making readers swoon everywhere!
Y’all this series has been my Roman Empire since TAB came out almost two years ago. I’ve obsessed and gushed over Nadira and Kaladen to anyone and everyone who would listen. I’m so sad to see it end but ended so satisfyingly that I guess I’ll survive 😆
TNQ was the perfect conclusion to this amazing series. It was full of danger, surprise, tender moments, and satisfying resolutions. I’m always in awe of the imagination it took to create this vivid and unexpected world. Anastasis is extremely talented and if you haven’t read her books yet you are truly missing out.
While I love these characters and books with all my heart, I have to give a huge shoutout to Prince Trenian! That wickedly cunning and charming fae absolutely steals the show every single time he comes on page. His devil-may-care attitude, his knee-weakening swagger, and his never-ending wit that is always right on cue…I need more!
Read this one now! It was amazing!
Thank you Anastasis for the advanced copy! All opinions are my own.
The Neverseen King making readers swoon everywhere!
Y’all this series has been my Roman Empire since TAB came out almost two years ago. I’ve obsessed and gushed over Nadira and Kaladen to anyone and everyone who would listen. I’m so sad to see it end but ended so satisfyingly that I guess I’ll survive 😆
TNQ was the perfect conclusion to this amazing series. It was full of danger, surprise, tender moments, and satisfying resolutions. I’m always in awe of the imagination it took to create this vivid and unexpected world. Anastasis is extremely talented and if you haven’t read her books yet you are truly missing out.
While I love these characters and books with all my heart, I have to give a huge shoutout to Prince Trenian! That wickedly cunning and charming fae absolutely steals the show every single time he comes on page. His devil-may-care attitude, his knee-weakening swagger, and his never-ending wit that is always right on cue…I need more!
Read this one now! It was amazing!
Thank you Anastasis for the advanced copy! All opinions are my own.
November 4, 2025
4⭐️ I waited 2 whole months for this book to come out, and I’m just relieved this couple gets their happily ever after. Cause we are put through it for 3 whole books!
But I’ll be honest, it was kind of an anticlimactic ending. I still liked this book and this series as a whole and will recommend it for forever, but I just felt like it was a bit rushed, too many things happened (but like nothing happened at the same time), and our main characters were separated for a lot of it.
I think ultimately I wanted more. I don’t really have much to say but I’m happy with the ending and how these characters’ stories played out.
Side note, I loved how big of a part Prince Trenian played in this book. If you loved him in this, he has his own book and it was a 5 star read for me.
Content 💋:
- Kisses only
- No language
But I’ll be honest, it was kind of an anticlimactic ending. I still liked this book and this series as a whole and will recommend it for forever, but I just felt like it was a bit rushed, too many things happened (but like nothing happened at the same time), and our main characters were separated for a lot of it.
I think ultimately I wanted more. I don’t really have much to say but I’m happy with the ending and how these characters’ stories played out.
Side note, I loved how big of a part Prince Trenian played in this book. If you loved him in this, he has his own book and it was a 5 star read for me.
Content 💋:
- Kisses only
- No language
August 6, 2025
I. Am. Speechless.
This is by far the best book I have read by Anastasis Blythe - yes, even better than Bride of the Fae Prince (something I wasn't aware was possible). I LOVE this world! I LOVE Kaladen and Nadira! I LOVE the writing! And I LOVE the romance!
Nadira is probably my favorite FMC of any book I have ever read. She is scared but doesn't let fear define her. She is kind but not afraid to fight for those she loves. She is strong and powerful but still shows weakness. Her love for Kaladen is one of the most beautiful parts of this book. She is the Nightmare Queen.
We didn't see as much from Kaladen's POV in this book, but I did not mind (or really even notice) at all because, again, Nadira is my favorite character. He is so tender and sweet and a giant golden retriever. It was honestly humorous re-reading The Assassin Bride and seeing the Neverseen King for the first time and thinking how scary he was. After reading "The Neverseen King" and "The Nightmare Queen" all I could see him as was a big softie. Now, did I cry almost every time I read something from his POV? Yes. Yes I did.
Okay, a quick note for Trenian—because if I hadn’t already fallen in love with him in Bride of the Fae Prince (which, if you haven't read yet...what are you doing??), I definitely would’ve hated him here. All I could think whenever he did something... very Trenian-ish was, "What would Stella say to that?"
I physically could not put this book down when I first picked it up. Not one second was boring (I don't think Anastasis Blythe is capable of writing "boring") and I was at the edge of my seat (quite literally, mind you) for over half of this book. I could not catch my breath from everything happening in this book. Just thinking about how this is the last book in this series brings me to tears. Nadira and Kaladen will forevermore live rent-free in my head as my favorite fantasy couple of all time.
This is by far the best book I have read by Anastasis Blythe - yes, even better than Bride of the Fae Prince (something I wasn't aware was possible). I LOVE this world! I LOVE Kaladen and Nadira! I LOVE the writing! And I LOVE the romance!
Nadira is probably my favorite FMC of any book I have ever read. She is scared but doesn't let fear define her. She is kind but not afraid to fight for those she loves. She is strong and powerful but still shows weakness. Her love for Kaladen is one of the most beautiful parts of this book. She is the Nightmare Queen.
We didn't see as much from Kaladen's POV in this book, but I did not mind (or really even notice) at all because, again, Nadira is my favorite character. He is so tender and sweet and a giant golden retriever. It was honestly humorous re-reading The Assassin Bride and seeing the Neverseen King for the first time and thinking how scary he was. After reading "The Neverseen King" and "The Nightmare Queen" all I could see him as was a big softie. Now, did I cry almost every time I read something from his POV? Yes. Yes I did.
Okay, a quick note for Trenian—because if I hadn’t already fallen in love with him in Bride of the Fae Prince (which, if you haven't read yet...what are you doing??), I definitely would’ve hated him here. All I could think whenever he did something... very Trenian-ish was, "What would Stella say to that?"
I physically could not put this book down when I first picked it up. Not one second was boring (I don't think Anastasis Blythe is capable of writing "boring") and I was at the edge of my seat (quite literally, mind you) for over half of this book. I could not catch my breath from everything happening in this book. Just thinking about how this is the last book in this series brings me to tears. Nadira and Kaladen will forevermore live rent-free in my head as my favorite fantasy couple of all time.
August 21, 2025
10/5 🥹💜 Absolutely adored this ending to such an amazing series and world.
I went back and forth between devouring it at light speed and reading as slowly as possible to prevent it being over too soon. In a way I wish there were more books in the series, but I also think this ending was incredibly well done and wrapped things up so nicely. Perfect pacing and action the WHOLE time.
I love the whole series so, so much and I am just so obsessed with the world, the plot, the pacing, the romance, and ALL of the characters. I’m more invested in the two (plant) vines from this book than I am in most characters from other books for Pete’s sake 😂💜💜
I went back and forth between devouring it at light speed and reading as slowly as possible to prevent it being over too soon. In a way I wish there were more books in the series, but I also think this ending was incredibly well done and wrapped things up so nicely. Perfect pacing and action the WHOLE time.
I love the whole series so, so much and I am just so obsessed with the world, the plot, the pacing, the romance, and ALL of the characters. I’m more invested in the two (plant) vines from this book than I am in most characters from other books for Pete’s sake 😂💜💜
August 21, 2025
Perfect conclusion to the series. Loved it!
August 26, 2025
Glad to have the Resolution
3.5 stars rounded up. If I were to pick a word to describe the tone of the book I’d say “desperation”. At times there were so many moments of desperation that it all started to feel less desperate. I am glad for the resolution and wishing I reread the others before reading this because I think I missed out on some of the emotion because I was more removed from it. It was a decent final book though.
3.5 stars rounded up. If I were to pick a word to describe the tone of the book I’d say “desperation”. At times there were so many moments of desperation that it all started to feel less desperate. I am glad for the resolution and wishing I reread the others before reading this because I think I missed out on some of the emotion because I was more removed from it. It was a decent final book though.
August 9, 2025
"I would never have experienced love like I know now. Love that can rip you apart even as it heals you. Love that . . . changes you."
The Nightmare Queen is a lovely series finale. It is action packed with a plot twist that I didn't see coming. The HEA for the MCs is definitely hard won; to witness those events causing Nadria and Kaladen to grow closer and have the self-revelations they had about their journey was the sweetest part.
Many thanks to the author for the ARC
The Nightmare Queen is a lovely series finale. It is action packed with a plot twist that I didn't see coming. The HEA for the MCs is definitely hard won; to witness those events causing Nadria and Kaladen to grow closer and have the self-revelations they had about their journey was the sweetest part.
Many thanks to the author for the ARC
August 8, 2025
Hope? Nope! It's like the shifting of the tides. There is hope, then it's demolished. Plot twists decimate the hope that seems to be there, leaving loopholes that make sense with the world-building, but shocked me.
I cannot explain how much I loved this book. As the final in the King and the Assassin series, it pushes the reader to morph their view of what has been happening the entire series. No spoilers, but with the last major plot twist, everything starts to make sense in a way that I went through several theories before the reality behind the twist finally set in.
Things are not what they seem....
Filled with struggle and battle, the night is darkest before the dawn, but "dawn will come."
Ahhhhhh, and I love how this series connects so well with the Brides of the Fae series. The world-building and the characters, and everything. Honestly, Blythe is an amazing writer. She knows how to write people, and plot, and trauma, and it feels so real! So grateful for the opportunity to read this book pre-release.
I cannot explain how much I loved this book. As the final in the King and the Assassin series, it pushes the reader to morph their view of what has been happening the entire series. No spoilers, but with the last major plot twist, everything starts to make sense in a way that I went through several theories before the reality behind the twist finally set in.
Things are not what they seem....
Filled with struggle and battle, the night is darkest before the dawn, but "dawn will come."
Ahhhhhh, and I love how this series connects so well with the Brides of the Fae series. The world-building and the characters, and everything. Honestly, Blythe is an amazing writer. She knows how to write people, and plot, and trauma, and it feels so real! So grateful for the opportunity to read this book pre-release.
August 26, 2025
4.5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
AHHHHHHHHH I can’t even describe the way this book made me feel!!!
I was literally crying within the first couple of chapters!
I am soo sad the series is over!
-no language
-the romance is very tame for the couple to be married but there wasn’t much time for a lot of romance-no spicy sense just kisses
-very violent
AHHHHHHHHH I can’t even describe the way this book made me feel!!!
I was literally crying within the first couple of chapters!
I am soo sad the series is over!
-no language
-the romance is very tame for the couple to be married but there wasn’t much time for a lot of romance-no spicy sense just kisses
-very violent
September 14, 2025
This was a good end to the trilogy, and while we got a lot of closure and a good ending, I still wanted more. And overall too much of this book was just full of life-threatening danger to our MCs for me to enjoy it as much as the first two.
August 18, 2025
What an ENDING to this wonderful series! So sad, I want more of this story. I did not know how much I could love a character that was a plant! Badh-o and Badh-a added so much to the story and stole my brown thumb heart. As well as Nadira and the Neverseen King of course! Anastasis has a talent for closed door romance that is still so swoony and high tension-y! Highly recommend anything by A.B. As I always say in an Anastasis Blythe book review….she has not written a book I don’t LOVE!
Want to read
September 2, 2024YAY A DAY BEFORE MY BDAYYY
August 6, 2025
Did. Not. Put. It. Down.
I received an advanced readers copy of this book, I was not paid for my review.
***
I will become assassin, queen, and monster to reclaim what is mine.
In the wake of the Neverseen King’s capture and my escape from the Wolf’s clutches, I venture into the depths of the Fae realm, armed with little but my own gritty determination to take back my husband and throne.
The clock is ticking, the destruction of Lulythinar drawing ever nearer, threatening to take what little I have left in this world. Enemies surround me on every side, but I will not let them win.
Even if it costs me my very life.
***
Literally could not stop reading. I’ve been so excited about the final book in this series, hooked on Nadira’s story – and it did not disappoint. I’ve never read a book in this style of setting before and Anastasis does a fantastic job throughout the series of pulling you in, through both rich detail and those quiet little moments that bring everything to life.
One of the things I love most about this series is how immersive it is. There’s no overdone retelling of the previous books, you’re just dropped right into the chaos with the characters, feeling every twist and turn as they do.
There are some moments that made me groan and shout “no!” and at others cheering way too loudly. The side characters as always are so well written, that you can’t help but love them and want to hear more.
I’m hard pressed to come up with anything in this book that let me down or made me wish for something extra. I mean, except that I hope that there is a chance for more stories from this world...
The ending left me perfectly happy, not just in a satisfying “ahhh” kind of way, but because the action and character arcs kept going right to the very last page. It rounds off the journey of our little assassin perfectly, and with a fantastic final twist. Get it, read it, love it!
I received an advanced readers copy of this book, I was not paid for my review.
***
I will become assassin, queen, and monster to reclaim what is mine.
In the wake of the Neverseen King’s capture and my escape from the Wolf’s clutches, I venture into the depths of the Fae realm, armed with little but my own gritty determination to take back my husband and throne.
The clock is ticking, the destruction of Lulythinar drawing ever nearer, threatening to take what little I have left in this world. Enemies surround me on every side, but I will not let them win.
Even if it costs me my very life.
***
Literally could not stop reading. I’ve been so excited about the final book in this series, hooked on Nadira’s story – and it did not disappoint. I’ve never read a book in this style of setting before and Anastasis does a fantastic job throughout the series of pulling you in, through both rich detail and those quiet little moments that bring everything to life.
One of the things I love most about this series is how immersive it is. There’s no overdone retelling of the previous books, you’re just dropped right into the chaos with the characters, feeling every twist and turn as they do.
There are some moments that made me groan and shout “no!” and at others cheering way too loudly. The side characters as always are so well written, that you can’t help but love them and want to hear more.
I’m hard pressed to come up with anything in this book that let me down or made me wish for something extra. I mean, except that I hope that there is a chance for more stories from this world...
The ending left me perfectly happy, not just in a satisfying “ahhh” kind of way, but because the action and character arcs kept going right to the very last page. It rounds off the journey of our little assassin perfectly, and with a fantastic final twist. Get it, read it, love it!
August 19, 2025
This is the final book in The King and The Assassin trilogy following Nadira and Kaladen's journey through Lulythinar. It was a wild ride that took me through every emotion from giddy to devastated but I loved every minute of the ride!
Nadira and Kaladen are faced with so many challenges in this book that they must overcome after the events in The Never Seen King ripped them apart. There are some pretty hard moments when the characters are faced with near certain death as they fight to save each other and their worlds. Let's be honest, I was on the edge of my seat with tears flowing for a good portion of this one just hoping for a happy ever after!
While the first two books had some character growth, I was also happy to see a lot of growth in Nadira's character in this final chapter of their story. I felt like she came a long way not only in acceptance of a loving relationship after the life she had lived but also in overcoming her own fears and moments of panic. There were many moments where you could see such big changes in her.
This book was extremely well paced. It kept me hooked from the first page and I didn't want to put it down! There were some twists I did not see coming as well. What I thought was going to be a pretty predictable ending based on how the characters were set up to succeed was definitely not the case and I love endings I never see coming!
I highly recommend this series for anyone looking for a clean adult fantasy with a beautiful love story!
Nadira and Kaladen are faced with so many challenges in this book that they must overcome after the events in The Never Seen King ripped them apart. There are some pretty hard moments when the characters are faced with near certain death as they fight to save each other and their worlds. Let's be honest, I was on the edge of my seat with tears flowing for a good portion of this one just hoping for a happy ever after!
While the first two books had some character growth, I was also happy to see a lot of growth in Nadira's character in this final chapter of their story. I felt like she came a long way not only in acceptance of a loving relationship after the life she had lived but also in overcoming her own fears and moments of panic. There were many moments where you could see such big changes in her.
This book was extremely well paced. It kept me hooked from the first page and I didn't want to put it down! There were some twists I did not see coming as well. What I thought was going to be a pretty predictable ending based on how the characters were set up to succeed was definitely not the case and I love endings I never see coming!
I highly recommend this series for anyone looking for a clean adult fantasy with a beautiful love story!
August 18, 2025
final, emotional conclusion to the “King and Assassin Series”
“The Nightmare Queen” is the final, emotional conclusion to the “King and Assassin Series” by @anastasisblythe. Honestly, I don’t know whether to rejoice or cry.
The first book, “The Assassin Bride,” sets the stage with its intriguing magic portals, a mysterious house, a shadow king, and an assassin bride caught in forces far beyond her control.
The second installment, “The Neverseen King,” deepened the world and the characters. This is where we truly fell in love with Kaladen and Nadira, only to have our hearts ripped out by that cliffhanger ending. 😳
Now, in “The Nightmare Queen,” all the pieces come together. We watch Nadira rise from a scared girl, forced into the role of assassin, to a fierce queen willing to tear the world apart for the people she loves. She fights for her people, her friends, her king (sigh), and herself. She is tested, again and again, and every time she breaks, she chooses to rise.
Kaladen, meanwhile, is forced to live his worst nightmare, watching the woman he loves walk through fire, knowing he can’t shield her from it. He must come to terms with the painful truth: to truly help her rise, he may have to let her go. These two are fierce, flawed, and unforgettable. We rooted for them through every twist, every battle, and every heartbreak.
* Favorite Character: Still Kaladen. Forever the ultimate Shadow Daddy.
* Swoony Romance: Yes, the tender romance that we love is there, but the rising threats push the action to the forefront.
* Language: Clean.
* Worldbuilding: We’re dropped right back in, and it’s like we never left.
* Favorite Side Character: Badh-o (IYKYK)
* Runner-Up Side Character: Prince Trenian. Can’t get enough of him? Check out “Bride of the Fae Prince” to see what happens when he finally collects on that deal...
* Favorite quote: “You were made to fight, Nadira. You were made to rise up. So few people in this world are strong—but you are.”
My Thoughts:
“The Nightmare Queen” is a thrilling, emotional, satisfying ending to a beautifully crafted series. If you’ve been with Nadira and Kaladen since the beginning, prepare yourself, this finale does not hold back.
“The Nightmare Queen” is the final, emotional conclusion to the “King and Assassin Series” by @anastasisblythe. Honestly, I don’t know whether to rejoice or cry.
The first book, “The Assassin Bride,” sets the stage with its intriguing magic portals, a mysterious house, a shadow king, and an assassin bride caught in forces far beyond her control.
The second installment, “The Neverseen King,” deepened the world and the characters. This is where we truly fell in love with Kaladen and Nadira, only to have our hearts ripped out by that cliffhanger ending. 😳
Now, in “The Nightmare Queen,” all the pieces come together. We watch Nadira rise from a scared girl, forced into the role of assassin, to a fierce queen willing to tear the world apart for the people she loves. She fights for her people, her friends, her king (sigh), and herself. She is tested, again and again, and every time she breaks, she chooses to rise.
Kaladen, meanwhile, is forced to live his worst nightmare, watching the woman he loves walk through fire, knowing he can’t shield her from it. He must come to terms with the painful truth: to truly help her rise, he may have to let her go. These two are fierce, flawed, and unforgettable. We rooted for them through every twist, every battle, and every heartbreak.
* Favorite Character: Still Kaladen. Forever the ultimate Shadow Daddy.
* Swoony Romance: Yes, the tender romance that we love is there, but the rising threats push the action to the forefront.
* Language: Clean.
* Worldbuilding: We’re dropped right back in, and it’s like we never left.
* Favorite Side Character: Badh-o (IYKYK)
* Runner-Up Side Character: Prince Trenian. Can’t get enough of him? Check out “Bride of the Fae Prince” to see what happens when he finally collects on that deal...
* Favorite quote: “You were made to fight, Nadira. You were made to rise up. So few people in this world are strong—but you are.”
My Thoughts:
“The Nightmare Queen” is a thrilling, emotional, satisfying ending to a beautifully crafted series. If you’ve been with Nadira and Kaladen since the beginning, prepare yourself, this finale does not hold back.
August 20, 2025
......Wow.....absolutely wow.
This book was amazing! I have been so invested in this series and I absolutely loved it. I'm very sad to end the series but very happy to see how it all came to a close.
I literally read this book in 4 hours. I was so immersed and couldn't put it down. The book was filled with action and suspense the whole time that my heart rate was up the whole book.
Gosh, how I love watching Nadria learn to love herself but how it hurt to watch the trauma she had to overcome. Nadria is strong, persistent, and loving. She does has some fear but thats what makes her stronger. In this book you finally get to see her relationship with Kaladen grow to an unbreakable point.
Man oh man Kaladen owns my heart, His fierce feelings for Nadria melts me. He learns to overcome his fear of loosing Nadria (slowly lol) and learns how important she truly is. You don't get much of his POV this book but I was okay with it because you still get as much as you need.
I always say Anastasis Blythe's books are my favorite but this book for real by far is the best one she has written. I am super thankful I got to be along for the ride. I will be rereading this series several times.
This book was amazing! I have been so invested in this series and I absolutely loved it. I'm very sad to end the series but very happy to see how it all came to a close.
I literally read this book in 4 hours. I was so immersed and couldn't put it down. The book was filled with action and suspense the whole time that my heart rate was up the whole book.
Gosh, how I love watching Nadria learn to love herself but how it hurt to watch the trauma she had to overcome. Nadria is strong, persistent, and loving. She does has some fear but thats what makes her stronger. In this book you finally get to see her relationship with Kaladen grow to an unbreakable point.
Man oh man Kaladen owns my heart, His fierce feelings for Nadria melts me. He learns to overcome his fear of loosing Nadria (slowly lol) and learns how important she truly is. You don't get much of his POV this book but I was okay with it because you still get as much as you need.
I always say Anastasis Blythe's books are my favorite but this book for real by far is the best one she has written. I am super thankful I got to be along for the ride. I will be rereading this series several times.
November 12, 2025
I enjoyed this book so much, but it was my least favorite of the trilogy. And here's why:
First, there was so much tension without much of a break. The characters were either imprisoned, fighting against enemies, or being compelled to do things they didn't want to do. I would have liked some break times throughout the story, but there wasn't enough of that. There was also so much that happened which made it feel like all hope was lost.
Second, there was very little romance. I had hoped for a bit more at the end at least, but it was too brief.
Note: There's also a torture scene in the book, which was awful to read.
Some things I loved:
First, I loved how Nadira and Kaladen protected each other and had each other's backs.
Second, I loved the ending when Nadira finds out the truth of Crenfyre.
One additional thing I would have liked: The title is The Nightmare Queen, but this was never addressed in the book. I don't believe the word nightmare was ever mentioned, and it would have been nice to learn more about the meaning of the title, and what it means that it refers to Nadira as the nightmare queen. Perhaps it meant that she was a nightmare to the enemies.
First, there was so much tension without much of a break. The characters were either imprisoned, fighting against enemies, or being compelled to do things they didn't want to do. I would have liked some break times throughout the story, but there wasn't enough of that. There was also so much that happened which made it feel like all hope was lost.
Second, there was very little romance. I had hoped for a bit more at the end at least, but it was too brief.
Note: There's also a torture scene in the book, which was awful to read.
Some things I loved:
First, I loved how Nadira and Kaladen protected each other and had each other's backs.
Second, I loved the ending when Nadira finds out the truth of Crenfyre.
One additional thing I would have liked: The title is The Nightmare Queen, but this was never addressed in the book. I don't believe the word nightmare was ever mentioned, and it would have been nice to learn more about the meaning of the title, and what it means that it refers to Nadira as the nightmare queen. Perhaps it meant that she was a nightmare to the enemies.
August 8, 2025
Mind-blown! 🤯
That was the most epic ending to one of my favorite and most incredible trilogies ever, and now I don't know what to do with myself! The plot twists, the romance, the dealing with grief and hurt, facing enemies (and frenemies), the sacrifices made... This book made me laugh, made me tear up and cry, and it made me swoon. I'm not ready to say goodbye to these characters yet, and I'm sure that Nadira and Kaladen (and even sweet Badh-o and the banister) will always have a piece of my heart. 💓
The crossover with Valehaven and Prince Trenian was great, and if you have the chance, I'd say read this trilogy first and then go follow up with Bride of the Fae Prince. However, I read the latter in the middle of this series, so truly, it's OK in whichever order you read them. One will end up making you want to read the other for its own reasons, and there's plenty of fae intrigue and hold-your-breath moments to go around.
"Dawn will come again."
Truly, Anastasis Blythe is a mastermind in the Romantasy genre, and having read pretty much all of her backlist, I know I'll be eagerly awaiting her comeback and whatever new story she delivers next. ~ 5+ stars that make their own new constellation, and completely recommended!
That was the most epic ending to one of my favorite and most incredible trilogies ever, and now I don't know what to do with myself! The plot twists, the romance, the dealing with grief and hurt, facing enemies (and frenemies), the sacrifices made... This book made me laugh, made me tear up and cry, and it made me swoon. I'm not ready to say goodbye to these characters yet, and I'm sure that Nadira and Kaladen (and even sweet Badh-o and the banister) will always have a piece of my heart. 💓
The crossover with Valehaven and Prince Trenian was great, and if you have the chance, I'd say read this trilogy first and then go follow up with Bride of the Fae Prince. However, I read the latter in the middle of this series, so truly, it's OK in whichever order you read them. One will end up making you want to read the other for its own reasons, and there's plenty of fae intrigue and hold-your-breath moments to go around.
"Dawn will come again."
Truly, Anastasis Blythe is a mastermind in the Romantasy genre, and having read pretty much all of her backlist, I know I'll be eagerly awaiting her comeback and whatever new story she delivers next. ~ 5+ stars that make their own new constellation, and completely recommended!
October 4, 2025
This was a great read. Though the tropes that drive the entire trilogy are nothing new—a deadly bridal competition, a heroin who also happens to be an assassin, a mysterious, shadowy fae king with a heart of gold—the author managed to infuse it with her own unique voice. I love how the main characters were both so strong and yet so terribly broken, and how, despite being a deadly assassin and an immortal king, they were also, real, vulnerable people I could relate to. People who were plagued by sorrow, guilt, fear, doubt, and yes, even love.
I love the action points as well. So many times, it seemed things were about to fall to pieces, and our protagonists were sometimes literally hanging from the edge of a cliff. This is definitely an edge-of-your-seat novel.
The one thing I would change is the fate of the one character that died. Even though she died in a previous book of the series, her absence was keenly felt in this book. And yet even that absence served to push the story, and the characters, forward.
I love the action points as well. So many times, it seemed things were about to fall to pieces, and our protagonists were sometimes literally hanging from the edge of a cliff. This is definitely an edge-of-your-seat novel.
The one thing I would change is the fate of the one character that died. Even though she died in a previous book of the series, her absence was keenly felt in this book. And yet even that absence served to push the story, and the characters, forward.
December 4, 2025
The Nightmare Queen by Anastasis Blythe
After the Neverseen King’s capture, Nadira ventures into the depths of the Fae realm, armed with little but her own gritty determination to take back her husband and throne.
Absolutely loved the conclusion to this trilogy! After the cliffhanger at the end of book 2 things only seemed to get worse for our poor characters! This book does a super good job of putting you in the moment with the characters. A happy ever after never seems guaranteed. Perfect ending though. I really enjoyed how the romance was more in the background and the plot really shone through. Would love to read more books like this one! Highly, highly reccomend!
Genre: Fantasy romance (no spice)
Book 3 in the King and the Assassin (best read in order)
Quote: "No effort expended, no wound incurred, no shame suffered is pointless when my wife’s life is on the line."
Favorite character: Prince Trenian (side character, but he gets his own book later!)
Favorite scene: Getting the Roltwart soul
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
After the Neverseen King’s capture, Nadira ventures into the depths of the Fae realm, armed with little but her own gritty determination to take back her husband and throne.
Absolutely loved the conclusion to this trilogy! After the cliffhanger at the end of book 2 things only seemed to get worse for our poor characters! This book does a super good job of putting you in the moment with the characters. A happy ever after never seems guaranteed. Perfect ending though. I really enjoyed how the romance was more in the background and the plot really shone through. Would love to read more books like this one! Highly, highly reccomend!
Genre: Fantasy romance (no spice)
Book 3 in the King and the Assassin (best read in order)
Quote: "No effort expended, no wound incurred, no shame suffered is pointless when my wife’s life is on the line."
Favorite character: Prince Trenian (side character, but he gets his own book later!)
Favorite scene: Getting the Roltwart soul
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
August 18, 2025
The epic conclusion to The King and the Assassin series.
Lulythinar approaches.
Danger, love and betrayals mark the start of new challenges for Nadira and Kaladen.
With the fate of both worlds on a knifes edge and hope is all that remains against the destructive power of the Fae and Crenfyre. What would you sacrifice to save the one you love against all odds.
This book lived up to the rest of the series with a twist I never saw coming but was a fitting ending to this adventure.
The character development comes full circle, with Nadira standing for those she cares for against the fae and faces her past as the Mourner.
Kaladen must also face his worst fear of once again losing his wife during the upcoming battle of Lulythinar.
With the perfect balance of comic relief, anguish and pending disaster. The fight for those you love is never more important.
The finale did not disappoint and was phenomenally written.
Lulythinar approaches.
Danger, love and betrayals mark the start of new challenges for Nadira and Kaladen.
With the fate of both worlds on a knifes edge and hope is all that remains against the destructive power of the Fae and Crenfyre. What would you sacrifice to save the one you love against all odds.
This book lived up to the rest of the series with a twist I never saw coming but was a fitting ending to this adventure.
The character development comes full circle, with Nadira standing for those she cares for against the fae and faces her past as the Mourner.
Kaladen must also face his worst fear of once again losing his wife during the upcoming battle of Lulythinar.
With the perfect balance of comic relief, anguish and pending disaster. The fight for those you love is never more important.
The finale did not disappoint and was phenomenally written.
August 21, 2025
Thank you so much to Anastasis Blythe for this ARC!
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My rating: ☆☆☆☆☆ (4.75 stars rounded up to 5)
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AHHHHHHHH. What an epic conclusion to a beautiful series. I can't believe it's over. Honestly, my only real complaint about this book is that it ended. It was too short, I wanted more! This book is fast-paced and action-filled. Nadira and Kaladen spend the entire book fighting for their lives. The romance is threaded in between their constant battle but through it all you can feel their deep love for each other. There are some great characters - including a cute vine - and the return of my man Ash! I was so happy to see him again. It made me wanna go read Bride of the Fae Prince again. I love how these two series are blended together. I don't know how I'm supposed to go on now that it's over and I'll never see the King and the Assassin ever again. If you haven't read the previous books in this series yet, now is the time! And I highly recommend reading this finale when it comes out!
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My rating: ☆☆☆☆☆ (4.75 stars rounded up to 5)
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AHHHHHHHH. What an epic conclusion to a beautiful series. I can't believe it's over. Honestly, my only real complaint about this book is that it ended. It was too short, I wanted more! This book is fast-paced and action-filled. Nadira and Kaladen spend the entire book fighting for their lives. The romance is threaded in between their constant battle but through it all you can feel their deep love for each other. There are some great characters - including a cute vine - and the return of my man Ash! I was so happy to see him again. It made me wanna go read Bride of the Fae Prince again. I love how these two series are blended together. I don't know how I'm supposed to go on now that it's over and I'll never see the King and the Assassin ever again. If you haven't read the previous books in this series yet, now is the time! And I highly recommend reading this finale when it comes out!
November 1, 2025
And it’s the final part of the Neverseen King trilogy and Nadira still never quite grew on me- she’s just too superhuman for belief, but then in a story where a orphaned human assassin marries a fae king in order to help him prevent Armageddon via a sentient parlance that holds countless portals to other worlds, suspended belief is to be expected.
Kaladen, for all his strengths and knowledge, it’s Nadira that ends up finding the way to solve the mess that no one else in the centuries before her could figure out… which is saying a lot for a girl who is 18 when her husband has been dealing with all of this for two centuries now.
Still, there’s even more Trenian to love here (yay!) and I never knew I could possibly adore that self-absorbed little schmuck more. I love that he got his own story in Bride of the Fae Prince (which I highly recommend).
Satisfying end to the series, and I look forward to more Fae stories to come!
Kaladen, for all his strengths and knowledge, it’s Nadira that ends up finding the way to solve the mess that no one else in the centuries before her could figure out… which is saying a lot for a girl who is 18 when her husband has been dealing with all of this for two centuries now.
Still, there’s even more Trenian to love here (yay!) and I never knew I could possibly adore that self-absorbed little schmuck more. I love that he got his own story in Bride of the Fae Prince (which I highly recommend).
Satisfying end to the series, and I look forward to more Fae stories to come!
August 6, 2025
As book three of the series, it picked right up from where book two ended. From the start, this wasn't a fluffy series and book three jumps right in with all the danger and drama. What run throughout the series and this story especially is the relationship between Nadira and Kaladen filled with deep devotion, care, and unconditional love. You marvel at all the of different magics and strange magical beings that come through the portals. Prince Trenian makes a couple of interesting appearances in his homeland as well as in Risya when the action accelerates. Never in a million years would I guess the conclusion. You might make predictions, but this ending came as a real surprise. Love the series!
I did receive an ARC of this book.
I did receive an ARC of this book.
August 8, 2025
This book has so many feels. I loved reading every second of it. Nadira and Kaladen go through a lot, but I'm satisfied with how it ended. My favorite part was a twist that I didn't see coming. This book is filled with action, amazing characters, and swoony romance. I would highly recommend reading this series in order because starting on this book will make you miss a lot of context.
I'm hoping that there will be a connected story following a certain side character who still seemed to have unresolved business.
I was fortunate enough to receive an early copy and this is my honest review. As always, my opinions are my own.
I'm hoping that there will be a connected story following a certain side character who still seemed to have unresolved business.
I was fortunate enough to receive an early copy and this is my honest review. As always, my opinions are my own.
August 19, 2025
Stellar third act! I loved this one! It answered the cliffhanger from book 2 perfectly and had that same spark between Kaladan and Nadira with a perfect balance of their personalities. Lots of action, lots of angst, several moments where it didn’t seem like things could possibly work out—this book had them all and still managed a happily ever after. Definitely recommend this one!!
Rated PG-13
—clean romance without explicit content (mild innuendo)
—moderate gore/death/action
—no language
—little to no torture
I received this eARC free from the author without expectation of a review. My opinions are my own and voluntarily given.
Rated PG-13
—clean romance without explicit content (mild innuendo)
—moderate gore/death/action
—no language
—little to no torture
I received this eARC free from the author without expectation of a review. My opinions are my own and voluntarily given.
August 19, 2025
The long awaited third book in Anastasis Blythe's Assassin and the King series is finally here!! And it was definitely worth the wait!
📚
I will become assassin, queen, and monster to reclaim what is mine.
📚
This book was everything that I hoped it would be and so much more! This book sucked me right in and didn't let go. I've read all the books in the series and while I enjoyed everyone, this one is definitely my favorite! I loved seeing people conquering impossible odds, even when I had NO idea how they were going to!
📚
I received this book from the author, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
#fantasy #cleanromance #torturedassassin #faeking #romantasy
📚
I will become assassin, queen, and monster to reclaim what is mine.
📚
This book was everything that I hoped it would be and so much more! This book sucked me right in and didn't let go. I've read all the books in the series and while I enjoyed everyone, this one is definitely my favorite! I loved seeing people conquering impossible odds, even when I had NO idea how they were going to!
📚
I received this book from the author, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
#fantasy #cleanromance #torturedassassin #faeking #romantasy
August 24, 2025
Oh wow how do I even start… I am literally experiencing a bittersweet nostalgic feeling of the first time I came across Book 1 The Assassin Bride on Amazon Kindle Vella and I got HOOKED! Then the torture of waiting for The Neverseen King and the whole suspense of enduring months before The Nightmare Queen and now it’s done… phew 😮💨 bittersweet! I am sad the series is over but I am glad to have been on the journey and the ending and just about everything! This series will stay with me FOREVER! It captured my heart from the start, never letting go even till the very end. Anastasis, thank you for a story well written and epically told! 🙏🏽
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