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The Forge & Fracture Saga #2
Saint-Seducing Gold
The second book in the stunning YA historical fantasy trilogy that New York Times bestselling author Ayana Gray called “nothing short of spectacular”
There’s danger in the court of James I. Magical metal-worker Joan Sands must reforge the Pact between humanity and the Fae to stop the looming war. As violence erupts across London and the murderous spymaster Robert Cecil closes in, the Fae queen Titanea coerces Joan into joining the royal court while holding her godfather prisoner in the infamous Tower of London. Now Joan will have to survive deadly machinations both magical and mortal all while balancing the magnetic pull of her two loves—Rose and Nick—before the world as she knows it is destroyed forever
There’s danger in the court of James I. Magical metal-worker Joan Sands must reforge the Pact between humanity and the Fae to stop the looming war. As violence erupts across London and the murderous spymaster Robert Cecil closes in, the Fae queen Titanea coerces Joan into joining the royal court while holding her godfather prisoner in the infamous Tower of London. Now Joan will have to survive deadly machinations both magical and mortal all while balancing the magnetic pull of her two loves—Rose and Nick—before the world as she knows it is destroyed forever
9 pages, Audible Audio
First published April 30, 2024
23 people are currently reading
2972 people want to read
About the author
Brittany N. Williams
5 books213 followersBrittany N. Williams is an actress, writer, and nerd of many fandoms. She holds a BFA in Musical Theatre from Howard University (HU, You Know) and an MA in Classical Acting from the Royal Central School of Speech & Drama (Carrie Fisher’s alma mater for 18 months).
Brittany has performed across three continents—including a year spent as a principal vocalist at Hong Kong Disneyland—and her writing has been featured on Black Nerd Problems, Tor.com, in The Indypendent, The Gambit, Fireside Magazine, and in the Star Wars anthology From a Certain Point of View: The Empire Strikes Back. Her first novel, That Self-Same Metal , a YA historical fantasy set in William Shakespeare’s London.
You can find her on Twitter and Instagram at @BrittanyActs and at brittanynwilliams.com.
Brittany has performed across three continents—including a year spent as a principal vocalist at Hong Kong Disneyland—and her writing has been featured on Black Nerd Problems, Tor.com, in The Indypendent, The Gambit, Fireside Magazine, and in the Star Wars anthology From a Certain Point of View: The Empire Strikes Back. Her first novel, That Self-Same Metal , a YA historical fantasy set in William Shakespeare’s London.
You can find her on Twitter and Instagram at @BrittanyActs and at brittanynwilliams.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
April 10, 2024
If you haven't tried this series yet and you are a fan of the fae, queer romance, and Shakespeare then you definitely should. Saint-Seducing Gold (still not sure why this is the title tbh?) continues to follow Joan, a bisexual young Black woman living in a magical version of Shakespearean London where the fae from Midsummer Nights Dream really exist and are trying to take over the human government. She is the daughter of a blacksmith and makes stage weapons for Shakespeare's productions, but is now getting caught up in far larger plots. Not to mention the fact that she is falling for a boy and a girl at the same time, while yet another boy is blackmailing her into a relationship. We got hints in book 1 that this might end up being polyamorous, and based on what happens here I think that is extremely likely. It's a fun, quick read and I will definitely pick up the concluding volume when it releases! The audio narration is great as well. I received an audio review copy of this book via Netgalley, all opinions are my own.
July 2, 2024
I am absolutely loving this series! I love the take on the Shakespeare Era! This book has twist and turns that will have your rooting for the main character. Do I find her hardheaded and hot tempered at times, yes. Do I still love her will to sacrifice and help others, yes! I also love the magic system and how she references the powers coming from the African Gods (Orisha). I can't wait to read the next book and see what happens next.
September 23, 2024
While I enjoyed the first book of the series, That Self-Same Metal for the blend of theatre and mythology, I felt there were some issues holding it back from being as good as it could have been. Well, I’m glad that Saint-Seducing Gold improves on many of my issues of the first book, with a tighter and fast paced plot and fleshed out characters, all while raising the stakes, and I couldn’t pull myself away. If you’re into fae, Orisha, Shakespearian London, and magic, this series is one you need to get into as soon as you can!
Overall, the story feels more focused than the first book. The main conflicts are clear and unlike the first book, where I felt like I had to remember a bunch of stuff to keep up, I rarely got confused on things and mostly enjoyed listening through the book over a single weekend (I had a bunch of errands), and it’s not super long either, compared to the last handful of reads that were twice as long. There was little meandering in this one, and I think part of it was the main cast feeling more focused on fewer characters than last time.
Once again, we’re in a magical version of Shakespearian London, where in this book, the fairies have hidden themselves within high human society, with Joan forced to mingle with one in particular, continuing form the very intriguing cliffhanger from the first book. Joan’s out of her element, but still willing to get her godfather out so they can end the crisis before it truly begins. She also has to deal with the magic hating secretary of state, Cecil and his son, William, both of whom I hated by the end for good reason. Quite a bit for her to manage instead of being in a theatre troupe. I really enjoyed Joan’s growth and cleverness as she’s stuck in a situation she doesn’t want to be in, proving herself in more ways in one as she’s trying to restore the pact before the fae get too strong to handle. Her goals and motivations were easier to pinpoint and made me enjoy her twice as much as I did in the first installment. Determined yet caring.
The romance didn’t feel like it was intruding too much into the plot, and it was intriguing to an extent. Especially the whole blackmail into marriage part with someone Joan dislikes. There is the love triangle thing going (Joan is bi), but I have a feeling it won’t be resolved in the traditional manner, which makes me so happy.
There are little interludes that expand the world through other characters, and I felt these were more relevant to the story this time around, and gave us a glimpse of what’s happening. Instead of being a distraction to the story, they were an enhancement.
Overall, the rest of the world was fascinating to explore with interesting magic, which was a high point in the first book, fusing two traditions from different cultures. The fae’s magic was confusing in the fist book, but being more present from the start of this installment, their magic was easier to follow. I wish there was a bit more explained to some of the magic sometimes. The fights are dynamic and easy to follow. Again, some of it gets a bit graphic and bloody, so be warned. The prose was crisp, descriptive, and yet easy to listen to. The narrator, Patrica Allison, was great once again, with her British accent giving an extra air of immersion.
I also did like the historical notes at the end of the book, and actually took notes on some of it. Williams did her research and it shows, as it was a strong point in the first book as well and got better here.
This was a great improvement and I’m looking forward to the final book of the series and see how everything wraps up!
*I received an ARC from Netgalley and Spotify Audiobooks. All opinions are my own.*
Overall, the story feels more focused than the first book. The main conflicts are clear and unlike the first book, where I felt like I had to remember a bunch of stuff to keep up, I rarely got confused on things and mostly enjoyed listening through the book over a single weekend (I had a bunch of errands), and it’s not super long either, compared to the last handful of reads that were twice as long. There was little meandering in this one, and I think part of it was the main cast feeling more focused on fewer characters than last time.
Once again, we’re in a magical version of Shakespearian London, where in this book, the fairies have hidden themselves within high human society, with Joan forced to mingle with one in particular, continuing form the very intriguing cliffhanger from the first book. Joan’s out of her element, but still willing to get her godfather out so they can end the crisis before it truly begins. She also has to deal with the magic hating secretary of state, Cecil and his son, William, both of whom I hated by the end for good reason. Quite a bit for her to manage instead of being in a theatre troupe. I really enjoyed Joan’s growth and cleverness as she’s stuck in a situation she doesn’t want to be in, proving herself in more ways in one as she’s trying to restore the pact before the fae get too strong to handle. Her goals and motivations were easier to pinpoint and made me enjoy her twice as much as I did in the first installment. Determined yet caring.
The romance didn’t feel like it was intruding too much into the plot, and it was intriguing to an extent. Especially the whole blackmail into marriage part with someone Joan dislikes. There is the love triangle thing going (Joan is bi), but I have a feeling it won’t be resolved in the traditional manner, which makes me so happy.
There are little interludes that expand the world through other characters, and I felt these were more relevant to the story this time around, and gave us a glimpse of what’s happening. Instead of being a distraction to the story, they were an enhancement.
Overall, the rest of the world was fascinating to explore with interesting magic, which was a high point in the first book, fusing two traditions from different cultures. The fae’s magic was confusing in the fist book, but being more present from the start of this installment, their magic was easier to follow. I wish there was a bit more explained to some of the magic sometimes. The fights are dynamic and easy to follow. Again, some of it gets a bit graphic and bloody, so be warned. The prose was crisp, descriptive, and yet easy to listen to. The narrator, Patrica Allison, was great once again, with her British accent giving an extra air of immersion.
I also did like the historical notes at the end of the book, and actually took notes on some of it. Williams did her research and it shows, as it was a strong point in the first book as well and got better here.
This was a great improvement and I’m looking forward to the final book of the series and see how everything wraps up!
*I received an ARC from Netgalley and Spotify Audiobooks. All opinions are my own.*
July 13, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley, Spotify Audiobooks, Amulet Books, Harry N. Abrams, Brittany N. Williams, and Patricia Allison (audio narrator) for the opportunity to read and listen to the audiobook of Saint-Seducing Gold in exchange for an honest review.
Saint-Seducing Gold is the second book in the Forge & Fracture Saga, a planned trilogy, the first novel being That Self-Same Metal.
A Historical Legacy:
In the treacherous court of James I, Joan Sands, a metal-worker with a gift from her patron deity Ogun, is tasked with the crucial mission of reestablishing the Pact between humanity and the Fae to prevent an imminent war. Amidst escalating violence in London and the relentless pursuit of the ruthless spymaster Robert Cecil, Joan finds herself manipulated by the Fae queen Titanea (not to be confused with the fairy in Shakespeare's famous play with the self-same name), who forces her into the royal court and holds her godfather captive in the Tower of London. Joan must navigate through perilous magical schemes and mortal dangers while also exploring her conflicting feelings for her two loves, Rose and Nick, all while racing against time to save the world from impending doom. With her ability to manipulate metals, Joan might just be the only one who can stop the Fae from their killings.
Challenges and Choices:
As Joan strives to fulfill her mission and survive the complex web of political intrigue and threats from the Fae, she faces the daunting task of maintaining a delicate balance between her loyalty to her loved ones and the pressing demands of her duty. She has always known what her future should look like, but with greater powers at play, alternative choices must be considered... With the fate of the world hanging in the balance, Joan must confront the consequences of her actions as she aims to grasp an understanding of the possibility of losing everything she holds dear in a world teetering on the brink of destruction.
Final Thoughts:
Being a Shakespeare lover and and English teacher, this is a must-have for my classroom library. I enjoy the comparison of the fictional choices Williams makes to that of real-life events, enjoying the historical notes at the end of the novel. I also appreciate the note on the Orisha. While used in a more magical sense in the novel, it is based off of a real religious belief in West Africa, which adds even more depth to the cultural and diverse allure of this novel.
This book features Shakespeare and some of his players as supporting characters in Joan's quest to reforge the pact between the humanity and the Fae. In a time where those who are Black or LGBTQ are viewed as lesser and treated disrespectfully, the main character is a highlight to the power of voice, race, culture, and self. This book is an absolute icon for teen readers.
Saint-Seducing Gold is the second book in the Forge & Fracture Saga, a planned trilogy, the first novel being That Self-Same Metal.
A Historical Legacy:
In the treacherous court of James I, Joan Sands, a metal-worker with a gift from her patron deity Ogun, is tasked with the crucial mission of reestablishing the Pact between humanity and the Fae to prevent an imminent war. Amidst escalating violence in London and the relentless pursuit of the ruthless spymaster Robert Cecil, Joan finds herself manipulated by the Fae queen Titanea (not to be confused with the fairy in Shakespeare's famous play with the self-same name), who forces her into the royal court and holds her godfather captive in the Tower of London. Joan must navigate through perilous magical schemes and mortal dangers while also exploring her conflicting feelings for her two loves, Rose and Nick, all while racing against time to save the world from impending doom. With her ability to manipulate metals, Joan might just be the only one who can stop the Fae from their killings.
Challenges and Choices:
As Joan strives to fulfill her mission and survive the complex web of political intrigue and threats from the Fae, she faces the daunting task of maintaining a delicate balance between her loyalty to her loved ones and the pressing demands of her duty. She has always known what her future should look like, but with greater powers at play, alternative choices must be considered... With the fate of the world hanging in the balance, Joan must confront the consequences of her actions as she aims to grasp an understanding of the possibility of losing everything she holds dear in a world teetering on the brink of destruction.
Final Thoughts:
Being a Shakespeare lover and and English teacher, this is a must-have for my classroom library. I enjoy the comparison of the fictional choices Williams makes to that of real-life events, enjoying the historical notes at the end of the novel. I also appreciate the note on the Orisha. While used in a more magical sense in the novel, it is based off of a real religious belief in West Africa, which adds even more depth to the cultural and diverse allure of this novel.
This book features Shakespeare and some of his players as supporting characters in Joan's quest to reforge the pact between the humanity and the Fae. In a time where those who are Black or LGBTQ are viewed as lesser and treated disrespectfully, the main character is a highlight to the power of voice, race, culture, and self. This book is an absolute icon for teen readers.
March 25, 2025
Mostly completed as audiobook, like the first one. I was delighted to realize that the narrator is Patricia Allison, who plays Ola in Sex Education!!! As per the first novel, the audiobook is top tier. One of my favorite audiobooks I've ever heard, and no doubt part of what got me hooked on this series.
I didn't love this one quite as much as the first. The plot was quite slow, with a lot happening in the last 50 pages and setting up the third book. I do think the third book will be phenomenal, between the main conflict and exploring Joan's romantic situation.
A lot of the book was about Joan's personal development. I was surprised by how many pages were dedicated to time before she went to court with Titanea, as I expected that to be most of the plot of this book. It took so long for her to get to court that at some points I had no idea what the book was about other than Joan's relationships. Again, I think this sets up a great third novel but made the second one a bit weaker.
I didn't love this one quite as much as the first. The plot was quite slow, with a lot happening in the last 50 pages and setting up the third book. I do think the third book will be phenomenal, between the main conflict and exploring Joan's romantic situation.
A lot of the book was about Joan's personal development. I was surprised by how many pages were dedicated to time before she went to court with Titanea, as I expected that to be most of the plot of this book. It took so long for her to get to court that at some points I had no idea what the book was about other than Joan's relationships. Again, I think this sets up a great third novel but made the second one a bit weaker.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 4, 2023
A great addition to this series! I love Joan and this cast of characters (most of them anyways haha), and I'm eagerly anticipating the next one.
April 15, 2024
This audiobook was made available for me to listen to and review by Brittany N. Williams, Spotify Audiobooks, and NetGalley.
I absolutely adored the first book in this series, That Self-Same Metal. When I saw an opportunity to review this sequel on NetGalley, I was extremely excited. Let me just start by saying, this sophomore novel was absolutely wonderful. I tend to struggle sometimes with the 2nd book in a trilogy. At times it can feel like the author is stretching the action or adding filler to force a shorter narrative into a trilogy, which can be frustrating. However, this novel had none of that energy. The story was bursting with action, the cast is greatly expanded as Joan spends more time at the royal court. We meet King James I, who I don't think was even introduced in the first book. As with the first novel, I love the play on Shakespeare's work as well as the real UK historical characters. The author is clearly well versed in British history for this time period and is obviously a fan of Will Shakespeare. I love the Midsummer Nights references. This is very clever and the author is fully able to make it work.
The basics are Joan is Black, she lives with her parents and twin brother in James I's London. Her father is a goldsmith who designs jewelry & weapons. Her brother, James, is an apprentice with the King's Men, William Shakespeare's own theater troupe. Joan choreographs the acting company's fight scenes. She also designs, creates and maintains the troupes' acting weapons. Joan, James and their parents are children of the Orisha. They have magical abilities given to them by their Orisha. Each family member has their own Orisha and gifts. Two millennia before the story starts the Orisha Ogun brokered a pact between the people of the UK and the Fae to protect non-magical residents. This pact was interrupted in the first novel and this entire novel deals with the politics of this fallout. Joan's romantic relationships grow in important ways in this novel as well.
I loved this every bit as much as the first book and eagerly await the third and final book in this series!
Patricia Allison is the perfect narrator for this audiobook. She was also the narrator of the first book in this series, so for me, she is the voice of Joan Sands. Her voice perfectly embodied the emotional scenes and her narration of the fight sequences are unmatched. I hope to listen to more audiobooks narrated by her in the future.
Thank you to Brittany N. Williams, Spotify Audiobooks and NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to and review this audiobook. All opinions and viewpoints expressed in this review are my own.
I absolutely adored the first book in this series, That Self-Same Metal. When I saw an opportunity to review this sequel on NetGalley, I was extremely excited. Let me just start by saying, this sophomore novel was absolutely wonderful. I tend to struggle sometimes with the 2nd book in a trilogy. At times it can feel like the author is stretching the action or adding filler to force a shorter narrative into a trilogy, which can be frustrating. However, this novel had none of that energy. The story was bursting with action, the cast is greatly expanded as Joan spends more time at the royal court. We meet King James I, who I don't think was even introduced in the first book. As with the first novel, I love the play on Shakespeare's work as well as the real UK historical characters. The author is clearly well versed in British history for this time period and is obviously a fan of Will Shakespeare. I love the Midsummer Nights references. This is very clever and the author is fully able to make it work.
The basics are Joan is Black, she lives with her parents and twin brother in James I's London. Her father is a goldsmith who designs jewelry & weapons. Her brother, James, is an apprentice with the King's Men, William Shakespeare's own theater troupe. Joan choreographs the acting company's fight scenes. She also designs, creates and maintains the troupes' acting weapons. Joan, James and their parents are children of the Orisha. They have magical abilities given to them by their Orisha. Each family member has their own Orisha and gifts. Two millennia before the story starts the Orisha Ogun brokered a pact between the people of the UK and the Fae to protect non-magical residents. This pact was interrupted in the first novel and this entire novel deals with the politics of this fallout. Joan's romantic relationships grow in important ways in this novel as well.
I loved this every bit as much as the first book and eagerly await the third and final book in this series!
Patricia Allison is the perfect narrator for this audiobook. She was also the narrator of the first book in this series, so for me, she is the voice of Joan Sands. Her voice perfectly embodied the emotional scenes and her narration of the fight sequences are unmatched. I hope to listen to more audiobooks narrated by her in the future.
Thank you to Brittany N. Williams, Spotify Audiobooks and NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to and review this audiobook. All opinions and viewpoints expressed in this review are my own.
September 21, 2024
Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.
Saint-Seducing Gold is the second book in the YA Forge & Fracture fantasy trilogy by Brittany N. Williams. Released 23rd April 2024 by Abrams on their Abrams Kids imprint, it's 304 pages and is available in hardcover, audio, and ebook formats. Paperback format due out from the same publisher in second quarter 2025. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links throughout.
Featuring a strong young female protagonist named Joan, it's set in a fictitious Shakespearean London and includes a mash-up of A Midsummer Night's Dream (with real faeries) and swashbuckling political drama and skullduggery.
The author has an impressive facility with characterization, and even the secondary characters are well fleshed out and three dimensional (for good or ill). Joan is an appealing MC, and it's genuinely nice to see some representation for non-traditional stereotype leads. The use of alternating chapters from different characters' points of view isn't always entirely successful, but it works well enough.
Four stars. Generally quite well written and with a number of bonus positive points (swashbuckling fantasy with a female PoC lead and bi-positive representation). It would be an excellent choice for public library acquisition, or a binge/buddy read or book club selection. The third/concluding book in the trilogy is due out in early second quarter 2025.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
Saint-Seducing Gold is the second book in the YA Forge & Fracture fantasy trilogy by Brittany N. Williams. Released 23rd April 2024 by Abrams on their Abrams Kids imprint, it's 304 pages and is available in hardcover, audio, and ebook formats. Paperback format due out from the same publisher in second quarter 2025. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links throughout.
Featuring a strong young female protagonist named Joan, it's set in a fictitious Shakespearean London and includes a mash-up of A Midsummer Night's Dream (with real faeries) and swashbuckling political drama and skullduggery.
The author has an impressive facility with characterization, and even the secondary characters are well fleshed out and three dimensional (for good or ill). Joan is an appealing MC, and it's genuinely nice to see some representation for non-traditional stereotype leads. The use of alternating chapters from different characters' points of view isn't always entirely successful, but it works well enough.
Four stars. Generally quite well written and with a number of bonus positive points (swashbuckling fantasy with a female PoC lead and bi-positive representation). It would be an excellent choice for public library acquisition, or a binge/buddy read or book club selection. The third/concluding book in the trilogy is due out in early second quarter 2025.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
February 9, 2024
~~Thank you to Edelweiss and Abrams for the ARC!~~
3.5/5 stars rounded up.
I went into this book thinking I would have the same feelings I had about its predecessor That Self-Same Metal, but I actually found myself enjoying it more than I expected.
Don't get me wrong, there are still elements I found annoying, like the one chapter POVs from random characters as a world-building tool, or lacking, like the romance, but I could see Williams has improved on other things.
One aspect I liked was the fish out of water situation Joan found herself in for this installment. She has to navigate court politics, and she fumbles quite a bit doing so. I felt like I got a better grasp on her as a character through her failures, as well as the strong desire she has in protecting her family and community. Plus, her antagonism with Cecil was so good. He's obviously such a pathetic guy who's threatened by a much stronger Black teenage girl, but he gets ahold of some info on Joan that makes him a big threat. I really enjoyed them two at each other's throats, especially whenever Joan got the upper hand.
Again, I must bring up the admiration I have for Williams and all the devotion she had dedicated to her research. She has such a way of making a long past world feel so alive with the amount of tiny details she pinpoints and naturally integrates into the story. It's my favorite thing about her writing and these books.
Overall, this was a good read! I definitely want to pick up the next (And final, I believe) book, because the story ends with so much left for Joan and gang that they need to do - and I really want to see it through.
3.5/5 stars rounded up.
I went into this book thinking I would have the same feelings I had about its predecessor That Self-Same Metal, but I actually found myself enjoying it more than I expected.
Don't get me wrong, there are still elements I found annoying, like the one chapter POVs from random characters as a world-building tool, or lacking, like the romance, but I could see Williams has improved on other things.
One aspect I liked was the fish out of water situation Joan found herself in for this installment. She has to navigate court politics, and she fumbles quite a bit doing so. I felt like I got a better grasp on her as a character through her failures, as well as the strong desire she has in protecting her family and community. Plus, her antagonism with Cecil was so good. He's obviously such a pathetic guy who's threatened by a much stronger Black teenage girl, but he gets ahold of some info on Joan that makes him a big threat. I really enjoyed them two at each other's throats, especially whenever Joan got the upper hand.
Again, I must bring up the admiration I have for Williams and all the devotion she had dedicated to her research. She has such a way of making a long past world feel so alive with the amount of tiny details she pinpoints and naturally integrates into the story. It's my favorite thing about her writing and these books.
Overall, this was a good read! I definitely want to pick up the next (And final, I believe) book, because the story ends with so much left for Joan and gang that they need to do - and I really want to see it through.
September 27, 2023
The court of James I is a treacherous place -- and that's even before the Fae are involved. And now that Joan Sands, magical metalworker blessed by Ogun, has been made a reluctant lady-in-waiting to Queen Anne, she must navigate a course between petty enemies, the deadly hatred of Robert Cecil (the king's spymaster), his lovelorn and manipulative son William, and the Fae queen herself, Titanea. With her godfather Baba Ben imprisoned in the Tower, it's up to Joan to find a way to reforge the ancient Pact between humans and the Fae -- before the entire Orisha community is destroyed.
Whew, this second book in the Forge and Fracture Saga was loaded with action! Not only does Joan have to find a balance between proper behavior for the court and drawing on her magical power to fight enemies, but her family and her colleagues among The King's Men (Shakespeare's theatre company) have their own hazardous parts to play. While there isn't a huge amount of new character development in the book, I loved seeing how Joan was able to tap into her connection with Ogun and explore her own powers. The fight scenes were thrilling to read, and Shakespeare and his troupe always entertain me.
I'm still enjoying this much more colorful Elizabethan/Jacobean world (more characters of color, more range of gender and sexuality) and can't wait for the final book of the trilogy. 4 stars.
Thank you, Amulet Books and NetGalley, for providing an eARC of this book. Opinions expressed here are solely my own.
Whew, this second book in the Forge and Fracture Saga was loaded with action! Not only does Joan have to find a balance between proper behavior for the court and drawing on her magical power to fight enemies, but her family and her colleagues among The King's Men (Shakespeare's theatre company) have their own hazardous parts to play. While there isn't a huge amount of new character development in the book, I loved seeing how Joan was able to tap into her connection with Ogun and explore her own powers. The fight scenes were thrilling to read, and Shakespeare and his troupe always entertain me.
I'm still enjoying this much more colorful Elizabethan/Jacobean world (more characters of color, more range of gender and sexuality) and can't wait for the final book of the trilogy. 4 stars.
Thank you, Amulet Books and NetGalley, for providing an eARC of this book. Opinions expressed here are solely my own.
April 2, 2024
After That Self-Same Metal ending on an incredible cliffhanger, I was immediately desperate for more. Fortunately in the follow-up, Saint-Seducing Gold, author Brittany N. Williams doesn’t make the reader wait before launching back into the world of Joan Sands, The King’s Men, and the powerful Fae that threaten life in 1600s London as they know it. The book hits the ground running for a breathless, fast-paced adventure that hits on everything we loved about the first book, and taking them even further as the stakes continue to grow.
At the heart of the story, of course, is Joan, who has now become a Lady-in-Waiting to the Fae queen Titanea - herself still posing as the mortal queen - as a way for the mercurial Fae queen to keep her close. This pulls her away from both her family and her beloved troupe of players as she is now thrust into the sneaky political world of the Royal Court, a far less accepting place than the communities Joan usually calls home. Not that this stops Joan from working with her family and friends to try and find a way to reforge the pact between humans and the Fae before it’s too late.
For all that the Fae side of the plot is full steam ahead practically from the word go, in Saint-Seducing Gold Williams strikes a much-needed balance, knowing when to bring down the intensity and give Joan quieter moments with James and their parents, with Nick and Rose, the two loves of her life, and with her old theater troupe — including one scene in particular that blends all of these elements and called back to one of my more niche Shakespeare faves that had me unexpectedly emotional.
It’s hard to dive into the super-specifics of the parts of Saint-Seducing Gold that worked so well without giving away the twists in the story, but suffice it to say anyone who has an appreciation for Shakespeare and the era in which he lived and worked will enjoy this book, and anyone who has ever had to carve out a place in a world that doesn’t know what to do with them, will find themselves reflected back in a beautiful, thoughtful way that makes this series a must-read for book lovers of all ages.
Saint-Seducing Gold hits shelves on April 23. Special thank you to Abrams Books for an advance copy for review purposes.
At the heart of the story, of course, is Joan, who has now become a Lady-in-Waiting to the Fae queen Titanea - herself still posing as the mortal queen - as a way for the mercurial Fae queen to keep her close. This pulls her away from both her family and her beloved troupe of players as she is now thrust into the sneaky political world of the Royal Court, a far less accepting place than the communities Joan usually calls home. Not that this stops Joan from working with her family and friends to try and find a way to reforge the pact between humans and the Fae before it’s too late.
For all that the Fae side of the plot is full steam ahead practically from the word go, in Saint-Seducing Gold Williams strikes a much-needed balance, knowing when to bring down the intensity and give Joan quieter moments with James and their parents, with Nick and Rose, the two loves of her life, and with her old theater troupe — including one scene in particular that blends all of these elements and called back to one of my more niche Shakespeare faves that had me unexpectedly emotional.
It’s hard to dive into the super-specifics of the parts of Saint-Seducing Gold that worked so well without giving away the twists in the story, but suffice it to say anyone who has an appreciation for Shakespeare and the era in which he lived and worked will enjoy this book, and anyone who has ever had to carve out a place in a world that doesn’t know what to do with them, will find themselves reflected back in a beautiful, thoughtful way that makes this series a must-read for book lovers of all ages.
Saint-Seducing Gold hits shelves on April 23. Special thank you to Abrams Books for an advance copy for review purposes.
April 21, 2024
I was given a chance by Spotify Audio & NetGalley to listen to an audio arc of this book in exchange for my honest review of the works.
The plot is cooking, and Book 3 is going to be good!
With the Fae taking the face of the Queen and using the boan against Joan, the threats are everywhere.
Joan is used to actions and fighting, so it was genius of the faerie Queen to place her into the political Court element and leave her out of her element. It added a great chance for Joan to grow as a character in an area she was exposed to. The growth of the political plot was just wanted this book needed to grow the characters & the plot.
Between chapters, we witness innocents being attacked, turned and eaten by the fae, now free of their binds - which was excellent to see and adds to the horror of the situation, like that orphanage one & plague scene were terrifying.
This is the second book I've read lately with two love interests that are both amazing, and I was TORN like the main character, but then Rose & Nick suggesting they all be a couple, and I clapped because yes. "Love us both or neither."
Everyone loves each other and supports Joan; I'm here for it! Speaking of that, have you all seen the artwork of Joan/Rose/Nick? It's GORGEOUS!
ALSO: Cecil and his son, William, DISGUST ME! One is a racist little man, and the other is a weasel/predator trying to threaten Joan into a relationship. I was with Joan and wished she had not saved him.
The plot is cooking, and Book 3 is going to be good!
With the Fae taking the face of the Queen and using the boan against Joan, the threats are everywhere.
Joan is used to actions and fighting, so it was genius of the faerie Queen to place her into the political Court element and leave her out of her element. It added a great chance for Joan to grow as a character in an area she was exposed to. The growth of the political plot was just wanted this book needed to grow the characters & the plot.
Between chapters, we witness innocents being attacked, turned and eaten by the fae, now free of their binds - which was excellent to see and adds to the horror of the situation, like that orphanage one & plague scene were terrifying.
This is the second book I've read lately with two love interests that are both amazing, and I was TORN like the main character, but then Rose & Nick suggesting they all be a couple, and I clapped because yes. "Love us both or neither."
Everyone loves each other and supports Joan; I'm here for it! Speaking of that, have you all seen the artwork of Joan/Rose/Nick? It's GORGEOUS!
ALSO: Cecil and his son, William, DISGUST ME! One is a racist little man, and the other is a weasel/predator trying to threaten Joan into a relationship. I was with Joan and wished she had not saved him.
April 7, 2024
Picking up the plot where That Self-Same Metal ended, Williams takes readers back into Shakespeare's England where Joan Sands is very much in danger... as is the rest of London.
Saint-Seducing Gold definitely does not suffer from the second book slump. Selfishly I was a little bummed that not much of the plot revolved around any of Shakespeare's plays, but I understand why this book was focused elsewhere. But the conflict kept me on the edge of my seat, I appreciated the development in the romantic side of Joan's life, and now I will be anxiously waiting for the third book in this series to find out what happens next.
The author's note at the end adds more depth to the background of this world and the characters in it.
Patricia Allison does a great job with the audiobook narration.
Advanced Reader’s Copies (I ended up with an egalley and the audiobook) that were provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The audiobook is from Spotify Audiobooks and the egalley is from ABRAMS Kids/Amulet Books.
Saint-Seducing Gold definitely does not suffer from the second book slump. Selfishly I was a little bummed that not much of the plot revolved around any of Shakespeare's plays, but I understand why this book was focused elsewhere. But the conflict kept me on the edge of my seat, I appreciated the development in the romantic side of Joan's life, and now I will be anxiously waiting for the third book in this series to find out what happens next.
The author's note at the end adds more depth to the background of this world and the characters in it.
Patricia Allison does a great job with the audiobook narration.
Advanced Reader’s Copies (I ended up with an egalley and the audiobook) that were provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The audiobook is from Spotify Audiobooks and the egalley is from ABRAMS Kids/Amulet Books.
May 6, 2024
Saint-Seducing Gold is the second book in the Forge & Fracture series. Again we follow Joan Sands as she's been newly appointed a lady-in-waiting to Queen Anne, Titanea in disguise. What's more is Joan has her own personal feelings to deal with as she gets closer to both Rose and Nick.
I enjoyed this second installment of the Forge & Fracture series. But I didn't love it as much as the first one. The Shakespearen stuff seemed to peter off the more time Joan spends in court. One thing I also didn't love was the not-quite-love-triangle. I appreciate rep like this especially in YA stories though, it's just not my personal cup of tea. I enjoyed the story and Joan's continued character development was great. I will read the 3rd one when it comes out.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for this ALC. Patricia Allison is undoubtedly the voice of Joan, and no one can beat her on that. She's a fabulous narrator.
I enjoyed this second installment of the Forge & Fracture series. But I didn't love it as much as the first one. The Shakespearen stuff seemed to peter off the more time Joan spends in court. One thing I also didn't love was the not-quite-love-triangle. I appreciate rep like this especially in YA stories though, it's just not my personal cup of tea. I enjoyed the story and Joan's continued character development was great. I will read the 3rd one when it comes out.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for this ALC. Patricia Allison is undoubtedly the voice of Joan, and no one can beat her on that. She's a fabulous narrator.
April 17, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC of this novel. 4/5 stars.
I loved the first one (and I did enjoy this one), but I think this fell victim to the "second book in a trilogy" problem where it sets up a LOT of stuff for the remaining book...but not a whole lot actually happens in this. There's a lot of rising tension and problems, but by the end I was looking at the percentage I had remaining and going "how do I only have 20% left? I feel like things are just now developing"
Regardless of that, this series is still a delight for those who love Shakespeare, Shakespeare's London, History, and Orisha-inspired fantasies. Like, SHAKESPEARE? MAGIC? ORISHA? On top of Joan being able to wield metal like she does AND THEN YOU ADD IN HISTORICALLY LEGEND ACCURATE FAE (like, red-caps are terrifying).
Anyways, I still utterly consumed this and need the next one now.
I loved the first one (and I did enjoy this one), but I think this fell victim to the "second book in a trilogy" problem where it sets up a LOT of stuff for the remaining book...but not a whole lot actually happens in this. There's a lot of rising tension and problems, but by the end I was looking at the percentage I had remaining and going "how do I only have 20% left? I feel like things are just now developing"
Regardless of that, this series is still a delight for those who love Shakespeare, Shakespeare's London, History, and Orisha-inspired fantasies. Like, SHAKESPEARE? MAGIC? ORISHA? On top of Joan being able to wield metal like she does AND THEN YOU ADD IN HISTORICALLY LEGEND ACCURATE FAE (like, red-caps are terrifying).
Anyways, I still utterly consumed this and need the next one now.
April 29, 2024
ARC Review, courtesy of NetGalley
To read this book is to appreciate this book. Brittany N Williams so clearly did her research and it pays off. Not only are the references clear and the usage of history intentional, but she finds ways to captivate even the most anti-shakespeare readers. I loved seeing Joan come into her own and appreciated seeing her grapple with the love in this story. Joan is 16 and it feels so real. Williams paints her thoughts and insecurities throughout the story while highlighting her efforts and confidences. Saint-Seducing Gold picks up right after That Self-Same Metal and does a lot of the work to fill in the gaps from the first book of the series. I enjoyed this story more than That Self-Same Metal but both were solid reads.
C 8.5
A 7
W 8
P 7
I 8
L 7
E 9
To read this book is to appreciate this book. Brittany N Williams so clearly did her research and it pays off. Not only are the references clear and the usage of history intentional, but she finds ways to captivate even the most anti-shakespeare readers. I loved seeing Joan come into her own and appreciated seeing her grapple with the love in this story. Joan is 16 and it feels so real. Williams paints her thoughts and insecurities throughout the story while highlighting her efforts and confidences. Saint-Seducing Gold picks up right after That Self-Same Metal and does a lot of the work to fill in the gaps from the first book of the series. I enjoyed this story more than That Self-Same Metal but both were solid reads.
C 8.5
A 7
W 8
P 7
I 8
L 7
E 9
May 28, 2024
Thank you Netgalley and Spotify Audiobooks for this ALC!
- This was such a good sequel! It kept the pacing up throughout the book and really built on what happened in book 1.
- I really love the way the interludes are added throughout-it's such a cool way to get more POVs without feeling overwhelming.
- While I do feel like the chemistry between the love interests is a little lacking, I am loving the way that plot has been handled!
- The mixing of real historical events with a fantastical fae plot is so fun, especially if you're at all familiar with the history in the late 1500s! Williams does a great job of explaining the history throughout, as well as including thorough information in the author's notes at the end, which helps if you're less familiar!
- I loved the escalating fights and conflicts in this one, and I think its set up the third book really well!
- This was such a good sequel! It kept the pacing up throughout the book and really built on what happened in book 1.
- I really love the way the interludes are added throughout-it's such a cool way to get more POVs without feeling overwhelming.
- While I do feel like the chemistry between the love interests is a little lacking, I am loving the way that plot has been handled!
- The mixing of real historical events with a fantastical fae plot is so fun, especially if you're at all familiar with the history in the late 1500s! Williams does a great job of explaining the history throughout, as well as including thorough information in the author's notes at the end, which helps if you're less familiar!
- I loved the escalating fights and conflicts in this one, and I think its set up the third book really well!
April 20, 2025
Review:
This was such a good sequel! The magic, the fey, the history, and even some romance! This book had so many intense moments and kept me on edge, wanting more. Titania was up to no good and caused so much drama. Joan had a lot to handle between the court, the theater, and Fey. The writing was incredible and took you to another place. I do like the blooming romance between Joan, Rose, and Nick. I haven't read many books with polyamory, so it's interesting, but they seem to be great together. I love the sibling bond. Family was a big theme in this book, like the last, but more so. It also wasn't just blood ties, but found family. Overall, I enjoyed this book, though sometimes there were moments it dragged, but it wasn't often and didn't take away from my enjoyment. The last few chapters were intense, and I was so shocked, and I can't wait for the next book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 6, 2023
Saint-Seducing Gold is the second book in The Forge & Fracture Saga. It takes place after the breaking of the fae pact and continues with the troupe secretly apposing the fae. Joan is a rash well meaning girl. Unfortunately, mistakes can cost lives. Joan is called to be a lady in waiting to Queen Anne and must bide her time while in the spotlight.
Saint- Seducing Gold was easy to follow and filled with action packed scenes. I do feel like there wasn’t as much character development as I would prefer. Joan got in trouble more than once for rash actions and was apologizing more than needed. IT felt like she had not learned from any of her mistakes. I am eagerly awaiting the next installment.
I received an ARC and am leaving a review of my own volition.
Saint- Seducing Gold was easy to follow and filled with action packed scenes. I do feel like there wasn’t as much character development as I would prefer. Joan got in trouble more than once for rash actions and was apologizing more than needed. IT felt like she had not learned from any of her mistakes. I am eagerly awaiting the next installment.
I received an ARC and am leaving a review of my own volition.
August 2, 2024
thanks to NetGalley for the eARC
⭐️=3.5? | 😘=2.75 | 🤬=2 | ⚔️=3.75 | 14/15+
summary: That Self-Same Metal
thoughts: so this is super short (like barely 300 pages) and super fast paced and surprisingly packs quite a bit into it? but because of that it also felt like none of the side characters were fully distinguished and the magic wasn’t as well-established as in book 1? idk?? but I didn’t hate it???? but also the slow burn romance is killing me but also it wouldn’t make sense for it to go any faster. so.
⭐️=3.5? | 😘=2.75 | 🤬=2 | ⚔️=3.75 | 14/15+
summary: That Self-Same Metal
thoughts: so this is super short (like barely 300 pages) and super fast paced and surprisingly packs quite a bit into it? but because of that it also felt like none of the side characters were fully distinguished and the magic wasn’t as well-established as in book 1? idk?? but I didn’t hate it???? but also the slow burn romance is killing me but also it wouldn’t make sense for it to go any faster. so.
April 4, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Saint-Seducing Gold is the thrilling, enrapturing sequel to That Self-Same Metal, with beautiful characters, a fantastic world, and even more adventure.
I LOVED this book. Seeing new and old characters and their development was fantastic, and I loved the budding romance and queer representation. The magic system and world were explored in new and fun ways. The writing was just as captivating, and the book was beautifully paced. And the ENDING. I need book three right now.
The narrator was also fantastic! She captures the story, world, and characters so well and truly makes the reading experience even more powerful!
Thank you to the publisher for the free ALC!
Saint-Seducing Gold is the thrilling, enrapturing sequel to That Self-Same Metal, with beautiful characters, a fantastic world, and even more adventure.
I LOVED this book. Seeing new and old characters and their development was fantastic, and I loved the budding romance and queer representation. The magic system and world were explored in new and fun ways. The writing was just as captivating, and the book was beautifully paced. And the ENDING. I need book three right now.
The narrator was also fantastic! She captures the story, world, and characters so well and truly makes the reading experience even more powerful!
Thank you to the publisher for the free ALC!
April 17, 2024
A great blend of historical fiction and fantasy and a wonderful sequel. I enjoyed this original take on 17th century history featuring a bad ass Black heroine who becomes the Queen's consort, wields a sword like no other, loves Shakespeare and his plays and has a secret connection to the fae. Full of action, adventure and cutthroat fantastical beings, this was pure entertainment and great on audio too. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early audio copy in exchange for my honest review. I can't wait to see how the series ends! Highly recommended for fans of books like One for all by Lilli Lainoff.
July 15, 2025
This was a definite improvement from the first one! I thought the themes of picking your battles were implemented well, especially at the end. Brittany N. Williams does a great job making you feel so angry and afraid for Joan as she tries to wrestle back just a bit of power in her situation, and that makes the plot feel more interesting and driven. I think the writing can be a bit heavy-handed at points (how many times did I need to hear Joan get told she should've forfeited her duel, come on) and I hope we get a bit more focus Joan's relationship with Ogun in the future, but I had a very nice time with this book. Also again, everyone is gay and that's wonderful.
June 2, 2024
Fun romp of a mid-trilogy book that gets to focus on court moves and leans more into being ok with triads as solutions to the love triangle dilemma, which I am a huge fan of as a little bisexual nerd who read a lot as a girl. Things end up going off fairly suddenly, and gets a bit farther away from the historical part of the last book (though there is a good explainer in back for those who want to know more!), but I can't wait to see where the final book in the trilogy goes. Also, baller as hell cover.
February 17, 2025
This series is so much fun!! I can not WAIT for the next book to come out and see what happens next. These characters are so easy to root for, but still complex characters that definitely have their flaws. I also love how we get LGBTQ representation. Joan is a strong female protagonist that breaks a lot of the stereotypes we see in the FMC in most fantasies. This was such an action-packed, well-written sequel and I enjoyed every moment. The pacing was much better this time around and I was captivated! I honestly wished it was longer! I hope the third book is even more impressive!
March 22, 2025
In contrast to the first book in the series, this one hit the ground RUNNING. So much happened so fast, but despite all the action there was still plenty of time for introspection. I adore the audiobook narrator, even though some of the gory scenes are a bit much to listen to. This is such a fun large ensemble of characters, truly evil villains that make your skin crawl, and I love the historical fantasy setting. It was looking pretty sticky there at the end, so I’m very nervous to read the final book in the series later this year. 4.5/5⭐️
April 30, 2025
Very fun, no middle-book slump here. The pace is picking up, and Joan runs from crisis to crisis, between her family and her magic and her new role as a lady-in-waiting and her two crushes. I did smile and roll my eyes just a little at how both Nick and Rose are 100% fine with (potentially) being in a bi throuple with Joan, but heaven knows she's got enough drama going on, why not make romance easy on her?
Time to go send Shakespearean couplets to the library until they agree to purchase Book 3!
Time to go send Shakespearean couplets to the library until they agree to purchase Book 3!
December 25, 2023
I was curious to about where the second book would lead Joan. She ends up in the queens courts having to deal with a lot more attention. There is a great deal more action in the second book that kept those parts fast paced and fun to read.
Thank you Brittany N. Williams and NetGalley for letting me read this book.
Thank you Brittany N. Williams and NetGalley for letting me read this book.
April 1, 2024
Thank you Spotify Audiobooks and NetGalley for the advanced electronic audio review copy of this great book. This is a wonderful continuation of The Forge & Fracture Saga. Lots of action, same great characters, and fast moving plot made this a fast and enjoyable read. Can’t wait to see how it all ends in the final book of the trilogy.
January 6, 2025
very cool series of Black Orisha-Blessed twins living in Elizabethan London who act with Shakespeare's players. The heroic female MC must deal with racism, classism and the Fae, who are trying to take over london. I loved the after-chapters which described the real people and events that had been adapted into the book.
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