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The Heir of Atlantis #2

The Forever Queen

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The Princess plays a fatal game, and the stakes are higher than she ever could have imagined.

Princess Asherah Delmar, the former heir to the throne of Atlantis, makes a heart-wrenching sacrifice as she embarks on a perilous journey into the enemy realm of Corenathia. Under the cunning guise of Prince Lux Nacan's betrothed, she must retrieve the goddess's artifact. One only she can find.

As Atlantis slides further into darkness, Asherah leaves behind her unbonded mate, Commander Draevyn Eliron, and risks the lives of the humans in Atlantis, a decision she does not take lightly.

When Asherah arrives in Corenathia, she discovers a treacherous world that will challenge her integrity and shake her will to stay silent. But with help from the most unlikely of allies, she is determined to find the hidden artifact and escape Queen Sessi’s realm in time to save Atlantis and solidify the bond with Draevyn.

Though Asherah doesn't realize she's playing a deadly game with a wicked queen who holds all the cards.

Including hers.

Unknown Binding

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About the author

S.T. Fernandez

12 books128 followers
S.T. Fernandez (a.k.a. Stephanie) is a Latinx, award-winning author originally from Orlando, Florida. She now lives in the charming beach town of Ventura, California, with her husband and their two spirited wiener dogs.

Stephanie holds a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature from Saint Leo University and has been a lifelong fan of romantic fiction, particularly fantasy and paranormal romance. As a proud BookFest Award winner, she crafts immersive stories that transport readers to vivid, emotional worlds filled with magic, passion, and heart.

When she’s not writing or marketing like a mad woman, you’ll likely find her on the patio soaking up the California sun, a glass of red wine in one hand and a book in the other—probably one with a swoon-worthy shadow daddy and a strong, unforgettable heroine.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
Profile Image for Leanna Streeter.
351 reviews57 followers
December 6, 2025
The second I hit that cliffhanger in book one, I knew I wasn’t taking a breath before diving straight into this sequel and wow, this book did not hold back. It picks up immediately and throws you right back into the danger, the politics, and the heartbreak. The tension is higher, the stakes are sharper, and Ash is pushed to her absolute limit in every possible way.

One of my favorite things about this installment is how much deeper we get to go into the fae realms. The Fire Kingdom in particular is brutal, corrupt, and full of characters who made my blood boil in the best way. You really feel Ash’s frustration and fear because the writing makes you sit in it with her. It’s darker than book one, but the emotional payoff is so worth it.

Ash’s growth here is phenomenal. She’s grieving, carrying the weight of an entire realm, and still trying to stay true to who she is. Watching her fight for her people, for her crown, and for her future even when every path is dangerous made me love her even more. And her bond with Draevyn continues to be such a tender thread woven through all the chaos, even when circumstances force them apart. Their loyalty to each other is so grounding.

And then there’s Lux. I didn’t expect to adore him, but he completely won me over. His relationship with Ash felt so layered with trust, frustration, reluctant alliance, friendship. The fake engagement storyline was so much fun in the middle of all the darkness, and their dynamic added so much emotional depth to the journey.

This book is packed with betrayals, sacrifices, political scheming, dangerous missions, hidden motives, and moments that made me want to scream at the characters through the page. The world expands beautifully, the magic deepens, and every chapter feels like the stakes are tightening another notch.

And then that ending.
Once again I’m staring at the wall because HOW am I supposed to wait after that? S.T. Fernandez really said “let me wreck your entire evening” and succeeded.

This sequel is intense, emotional, magical, heartbreaking, and completely addictive. I loved every minute and I’m already bracing myself for book three.
Profile Image for Hayley Gallant .
835 reviews82 followers
August 11, 2025
5 stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Thank you to the author for my copy!

Omgosh! This was everything I needed and more.


After that crazy cliffhanger that book one left us with, I'm so glad that this book covered what happened right from the beginning.

Did we get less spice/more action in this one? Yes we did. But, did we get dream spice ... also yes. And it was magical.

I loved this book so much, I enjoyed so many of the characters. There was also a character in here that has my maiden name, which was so fun and sweet of the author to do.

I felt so much angst in this one, tension was through the roof, and characters that I just wanted to strangle.

And then of course we end on another cliffhanger ... 🤯

You get:
• Fantasy Romance
• Spicy
• Don't Trust Anyone
• Bond Mates
• Prophecy
• Magic & Elementals
• Brutaility


I can't wait for the next one! Available on KU, ebook, and paperback. (September 1st)
Profile Image for S.T. Fernandez.
Author 12 books128 followers
Currently reading
September 30, 2025
His thumb brushed across my cheek as his other hand swept a pathway across my lower back, holding me close to him. “What else is troubling you?”

A lump formed in my throat as I swallowed against the threatening tears. “I’ve been yanked from the only home I’ve ever known, the only place that has felt like home. Then, just as I’m getting comfortable in the palace, I’m yanked from there, too. And I… I feel like an ungrateful brat for saying this… but this house isn’t my home, regardless of what Dad says. I may have a room here, but it’s not my home. I don’t fit in here.” I blinked past the tears that inevitably fell down my damp cheeks.

Draevyn pinched my chin, lifting it to meet his Caribbean green eyes. “Don’t you understand, nanichi?”

My brow furrowed. “Understand what?”

He grabbed my hand and pressed it against his heart, the steady rhythm beating beneath my palm. “Do you feel that?” I nodded slowly. “That is your home,” he murmured as he placed his palm over my heart, “just as this is my home. Wherever we are, whatever city or town or realm it might be, I am your home, and you are mine."
Profile Image for Maddy Freitas.
228 reviews10 followers
August 12, 2025
EXCUSE ME WHILE I GO OFF MYSELF IN SACRIFICE TO THIS BOOK 😍👌👏♾️⭐️📚😩🌊

Holy shit. I cannot even form all the words yet. I just finished this, and I am in shock. This is one of the best books I've ever read, and I loved the first 2 in this series, but this was somehow a million times better. It IMMEDIATELY went into the story and was dark and f*cked up and gruesome, and I was here for it.

S.T. Fernandez writes about the Goddess, but I think she is the Goddess of writing ✍️ Damn. She can write the most detailed stories that are impossible to put down. Every character, every moment, every plot twist had my heart racing, and I did not want to stop reading. The different elements and the class system between fae and humans and even other types of fae were infinitely well done.

I also f*cking HATE the characters from the fire fae realm, like I had rage in my heart and felt the pain and frustration that Asherah felt. It's like I was part of the book. This book was a lot darker than the other 2, and this new realm is brutal. Asherah had a task to complete that was assigned by the goddess Atabey because she is the Hekiti (has all elemental magic) and needs to claim her throne and rule over all fae. Of course, Malaysa has other plans and is taken over by fear and madness while still trying to claim Drae as her bondmate when he clearly isn't. I LOVE prince Lux and their friendship, and that poor boy was given a rough fate for his life under his mother, Queen Sessi's rule. He was such a sweet friend, and their fake betrothal was perfect. I loved the subtle challenges they waged against Queen Sessi and their defiance over the treatment of humans. There were a lot of sacrifices in this book, and a lot of depth that is going to be important for the rest of the series.

I'm genuinely mad because now I have to wait again to see what happens next, but words really just can't express my feelings for this right now!

Thank you SO much S.T Fernandez for letting me be a Book Guardian and getting to read this early!
Profile Image for ash✿.
228 reviews10 followers
July 30, 2025
I'm still trying to pick my jaw up from the floor after that MIND-BLOWING cliffhanger ending!!! I didn't see it coming, and now I'm literally counting down the days until the next book is released! 💀 The suspense is killing me!

The romance between the two main characters is absolute perfection - the way they navigate their long-distance relationship, the patience they show each other, and the angst that comes with it... it's all so beautifully done. And let's talk about that fake fiancé trope - I'm HOOKED! The way it adds an extra layer of complexity to all their relationships is just on point.

I devoured this book in one sitting (yes, I'm talking 35%-100% in one go, no joke!) and I couldn't get enough. The plot twists, wars, and dangers had me on the edge of my seat, biting my nails and screaming at the characters to make better decisions (don't @ me). I loved the characters, but I'd love to see more depth in some of them in the next book. I'm invested in their stories, and I want to know more!

If you're a fan of fantasy romance with a dash of drama, suspense, and swoon-worthy moments, you'll LOVE this book. Trust me, you won't regret it! The world-building is immersive, the characters are complex, and the romance is swoon-worthy. Now, where's book three?!

I'm ready to dive back into this world and experience the next part of the journey with these characters.
Profile Image for Thais • tata.lifepages •.
630 reviews1,051 followers
September 26, 2025
Y’all know retellings are my thing, guess how excited I was when I discovered this SPICY Romantasy retelling of the myth of ATLANTIS 😱 I enjoyed this sequel even more than book 1 The Veiled Threat 😍

This series is perfect if you love magical underwater worlds, elemental fae, a lost heir to the throne and a slow burn romance with spice (she’s the princess and he’s her guardian 🥵).

In Book 2, Asheran, a water fae, becomes queen of Atlantis after her mother’s murder. She begins her training with Commander Draevyn, and as they fall in love, they prepare to attend their bonding ceremony to become mates. However, the ceremony must be postponed when Draevyn is nearly kidnapped by their enemies.

Although their romance continues to burn, Asheran is forced to wed the Fire Fae Prince, Lux, instead, in order to fulfill a prophecy. I love the fake engagement trope!! She must seek out four sacred objects—one in each realm—to become a powerful Hekiti, the chosen one destined to bring peace to all. It ends in a cliffhanger and I was SCREAMING!! 😱
Profile Image for Katelynn Seaman.
107 reviews2 followers
July 4, 2025
Draevyn and Asherah were perfection I love their relationship and how attentive and reassuring he was for her. They have gone through so much together since book one that I’m excited to see what happens in book 3 because holy crap that cliffhanger ending.
Profile Image for Maria Elena | pagesofmaria.
782 reviews235 followers
September 28, 2025
Let’s go to Atlantis!

The Forever Queen is the second book in The Heir of Atlantis series. This Romantasy is the perfect read for those of us who love political intrigue, secret royals and steamy romance!

The story follows Asherah, who wants to become a marine biologist. However, she discovers she is the lost heir of a water fae kingdom, and when tragedy strikes her family, she must return to her kingdom to claim her throne, a task that comes with its challenges. After living so long as a human, she must learn how to become part of this world, and she must also protect her crown from those who don’t deem her worthy of the title.

I read the first book last year and I enjoyed the setting and intrigue. One of my favorite aspects was discovering Atlantis, its magic and politics through Asherah’s eye. This is one of the most unique mermaid books I’ve read, and this continues to hold true in this sequel. Following the twist from the previous book, Asherah needs to navigate the court politics and deceptions and strikes an alliance that if on the one side she needs, on the other it could threaten everything and cost her the throne. As always, I enjoyed the steamy moments between Asherah and the Captain of the Guard, Draevyn, though they spend quite some time apart in this installment. I also enjoyed getting to explore the Fire Kingdom.

Here are some tropes!
🧜‍♀️ elemental fae and merfolk
🧜‍♂️ fated bonds
🏰 political intrigue
👑 fight for the throne
🤝 deception and alliances
💍 fake engagement!

Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy. Opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Krista Nicole.
241 reviews19 followers
August 18, 2025
I am absolutely gutted over that ending and I need that next book ASAP please! I loved book 1 of this series and book 2 picks up right where book 1 left off. With the throne now hanging in the balance and all of the world possible, Ash must follow through on her plan and head to the fire fae kingdom and leave those she loves behind, including her mate. This book follows her into this new realm full of injustice but she must do all she can to retrieve the artifact she needs and unlock more of her powers. With the help of some unlikely allies, Ash must continue on her quest with the fate of the world on her shoulders.

I liked the first book and adored this one even more! The world building continued to amaze as we explored this new kingdom and new styles of powers. I loved the relationships/friendships that got to be explored this book and the background and character development we got for Prince Lux, I’m hoping he maybe gets his own book, or him and his 3 siblings stories are all still followed. I also loved the dual POV with Drae so we still got to see what was happening in Atlantis and his scheming to keep things at bay while Ash was gone and seeing the two of them yearn for their bond even at such a distance. There are some pretty intense scenes in this book so make sure to check out the trigger warnings! Overall I really enjoyed this book and cannot wait for the next one! My rating 4.7/5!
Profile Image for Megan Todaro.
358 reviews6 followers
July 18, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5 Stars
🌶️🌶️🌶️

I loved the first book and after that brutal cliffhanger (still bitter about it) I couldn’t wait to dive into book 2! In this book we explore the fire realm, and this is nothing like Atlantis. The fire realm is a dangerous place with an evil queen who has it out for Ash. Ash is out of her realm here and is racing against the clock to complete this part of the quest before she can return to Atlantis.

But what will Atlantis look like when she returns? We get some glimpses back into Atlantis while Ash is in the fire realm and things are looking bleak…

I loved Ash’s journey is this book, her character arc is beautiful and we get to watch her continue to grow in her powers and develop new powers that she needs to complete her quest.

There is a lot more political intrigue in this book and I enjoyed that aspect. The last 70% of the book had me on the edge of my seat! It was action packed with quests, fights, romance, and everything in between! There is not as much spice in this book as the first (bc FMC and MMC are separated for most of the book) but don’t worry it’s there and it’s worth the wait (trust me it’s HOT AS HELL)!

Cannot wait to see where the story goes next!

But the cliffhanger…why do you do this to us!?!
Profile Image for Enelyae Is Reading.
466 reviews11 followers
September 2, 2025
OMG LUX!! I LOVE HIM! I seriously love the sibling like relationship that happens between Lux and Ashley. I feel like that’s what it was like throughout the whole book and how much they did for each other! I so want a Lux book now! I also really like his siblings so far! The shit they have to go through is insane. I just wanna hug them all.

So even though Lux’s mother is an evil c*nt, I actually hate stupid manipulative bitch Melysah so much more. Is that weird? I don’t know but I seriously cannot stand her UGH! And poor Drae having to deal with her. Also need to mention that I forgot how much I love Dax! He’s such a grumpy grumbly bear and I think it’s great!

I am so excited to continue to see where the story goes cause it just keeps getting better and more epic and there are so many of these characters that I have fallen in love with! Thank you S.T. Fernandez for letting me be a part of the team and experiencing the amazingness of this world!!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Profile Image for Ana.
489 reviews5 followers
August 1, 2025
I mean from having at the end of book 1 going crazy and wanting to have all the answers. Reading this one and the ending left me again not knowing what to do with my life. I was not able to concentrate on another book for a while after. From starting where we left off, to the absolutely adventure our Ash has to go through. With Lux and Draevyn helping her all the way. I absolutely loved it. From beginning to end, every single turn of the page had me wanting more and more. Ash, you are amazing and I hope you can conquer it all. Draevyn you are still one of my favorites♡ but can we all agree we dislike Melysah and still in this is one I do not want her to continue showing up. But hey I guess she is part of the story.


I can't wait for the next book, this will forever be one of my fave elemental fae series♡
Profile Image for Valeria Jiun.
97 reviews6 followers
September 4, 2025
ATABEY, WHAT AN ADVENTURE 🔥🌊💨🪨 this book is filled with so many memorable side characters and really cool world building that i wanted to immerse myself into 🤩 PLUS THE ACTION AND ADVENTURE WAS NAIL BITING 🙌🏽 i loved exploring the new fire realm and watching Asherah continue to be such a badass FMC 👏🏽 and s.t. KNOWS how to do a cliffhanger like COME ON I NEED THE NEXT BOOK YESTERDAY 👀 THE WAY I GASPED AT THE ENDING

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️
Read if you love:
● Elemental Fae
● Fake Fiancé
● Dark 🔥 Realm
● Secret Identity
● Bondmates
● Dual POV
● Prophecy
● Heroine’s Quest
● World building

Thank you S.T. Fernandez & R&R book tours for this eARC 🫶🏼 can honestly say i LOVED it.
Profile Image for Gloria Ramirez Cox.
72 reviews2 followers
August 12, 2025
EXCUSE ME!!!! What in the cliffhanger heck was that!?!?!
my mind is blown by that ending!!!!
First of all Melysah can just walk off a cliff and all her little followers too! because UGH. Everytime she showed up on the page I had the biggest eye rolls 🙄

Book 2 definitely had me needing some anxiety medication because you just didnt know what was gonna happen next and our girl Ash was going through it. I dont want to put spoilers but be prepared you will get some twists and turns.

I love this series and cannot wait for the third.
Profile Image for Taylor.
101 reviews9 followers
August 23, 2025
The Forever Queen was so good even though Asherah and Draevyn spent most the book apart while Asherah went on her mission that she set in place at the end of The Veiled Heir with Lux. Queen Sessi of Corenathia is horrible and treats the Princess along with so many others horribly and I hate her! I’m glad there were people on Asherah’s side within Corenathia to help her even when some of them unfortunately met their end. All in all, I devoured this book and I highly recommend this series. I cannot wait for the next one!
Profile Image for Adreanna.
159 reviews6 followers
September 1, 2025
Reading The Forever Queen felt like stepping into a world that’s both breathtakingly vast and deeply personal. What really stood out to me is how Fernandez’s writing doesn’t just give us a powerful queen at the center of the story; she gives us a woman who is complex, vulnerable, and constantly forced to weigh her heart against her duty. That balance between strength and sacrifice is what kept me turning the pages.

The worldbuilding is lush and immersive, with all the royal politics, hidden agendas, and high-stakes decisions you’d expect from a sweeping fantasy. But at the same time, it never loses sight of the characters’ emotions and relationships. I found myself really invested in the queen’s choices.

For me, this book was the perfect mix of epic scope and emotional depth. If you love fantasy that has strong, layered women at its core, I think you’ll love this one too.
Profile Image for Ve (ve_xo).
671 reviews113 followers
October 16, 2025
4.5 stars

The Forever Queen by S.T. Fernandez completely swept me back into the world of Atlantis and left me clutching my heart. This sequel raises the stakes in every way and I couldnt put it down!

Princess Asherah Delmar has always been brave, but her courage truly shines here. Disguised as Prince Lux Nacan’s betrothed, she ventures into the enemy kingdom of Corenathia to retrieve a goddess’s artifact that could save her people. Every choice she makes carries heavy consequences, leaving behind her unbonded mate, Draevyn, and stepping into a court ruled by the manipulative Queen Sessi.

I adored Asherah’s strength and vulnerability. She’s clever, loyal, and so easy to root for. The longing between her and Draevyn is palpable…even separated by kingdoms, their bond burns through every page. The worldbuilding is stunning, full of danger, betrayal, and unexpected alliances that keep you guessing until the end.

This book is everything I want in a romantasy: heart, tension, and impossible choices. Fernandez writes with such emotion that you feel every ounce of Asherah’s determination and heartbreak.

Tropes you’ll find:
👑 Fake betrothal
🔥 Star-crossed lovers / bondmates
💔 Duty vs. desire
🕯️ Political intrigue & betrayal
✨ Hidden identity
⚔️ Fierce heroine on a dangerous mission

Huge thanks to ST Fernandez for gifting me a copy! Can’t wait to read more by her! All opinions are my own
Profile Image for Caitlin.
856 reviews10 followers
July 15, 2025
This series is an 5 star and just keeps getting better and better.

I am so in love with all of these characters...well not Melysah or Queen Sessi- they can both get fkd. But, my God the way I just want Asherah and Draevyn to have their happy ending.

The number of times I was pacing or on the edge of my seat- too many to count. The number of times I wanted to cry for Asherah- also too many to count. The number of times I swooned over Draevyn- once again, too many to count.

In The Forever Queen, we get an undercover fake engagement that was seriously done so well and it was so sweet and made me fall in love with Lux so much more. More fated mates and bonding ceremonies. Some answers to prophecy's and lots more questions.

Yes the end is a cliffhanger but there is so much happy right before it that I am surviving on that until book 3 releases!
Profile Image for Mrs Holm Reads.
61 reviews10 followers
July 27, 2025
Wow, this book completely caught me off guard with its intense twists and turns! With themes of bonded mates, betrayal, and an evil queen, the struggle for the crown beneath Asherah is truly captivating. She must seek alliances in the most unexpected places. As the chosen one of the goddess, her journey is fraught with challenges. Being separated from her bond mate is tough, especially while maintaining a facade of marriage and connection without cracking under pressure. This story is packed with lust, jealousy, and both emotional and physical turmoil, making it an incredibly engaging read!
Profile Image for Jazzy Mermaid .
143 reviews12 followers
July 29, 2025
Omgosh, I have been anticipating this book and it did NOT disappoint!!!! This book takes off where book one ended where Princess Asherah and Fire Prince Lux are "engaged" and will need to go to Corenathia in order for Asherah to retrieve the Jujo.

To prevent spoilers I will leave their adventures to the summary of they endure so much and are tested in ways that forces them to shift in their process.

This book at me at the edge of my seat the entire time and as the plot thickened I was equally panicking and excited. ✨️📚✨️
Profile Image for Akku.
520 reviews13 followers
July 8, 2025
✦ 𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 - 4.5✨

✦ 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 - Sept 2, 2025

✦ 𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬 -
• undercover in enemy territory
• fake engagement
• slow burn
• fated mates
• forbidden love
• fantasy royalty
• hidden identity
• one bed
• political tension

✦ 𝐌𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 -
Omg this book was a whole experience. I felt like I was underwater with Asherah, living through every secret and lie. She's strong and graceful but also raw and emotional and I just love that balance. The way she walks into enemy land with her head high and heart guarded had me in chills. The fake fiancée setup was sooo good and that forbidden tension with Prince Lux gave me butterflies even though my heart will always belong to Draevyn.
Speaking of Draevyn... their bond in this book was so intense and aching and beautiful. They’re not even always together but their hearts still speak to each other and that made everything more romantic. The angst, the loyalty, the longing—it’s all done so well. And those little moments between the chaos made me swoon hard. This world is rich, layered and full of secrets, and the way the plot unfolded felt so cinematic. The ending hit hard and now I’m just sitting here waiting for Book 3 like 🫠
Thank you so much hayling bookstrom and author for the free ARC!
Profile Image for jlreadstoperpetuity.
493 reviews19 followers
August 6, 2025
“Diplomacy is just another battlefield—for hearts as much as kingdoms.”

🗓𝗣𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗗𝗮𝘁𝗲: September 2, 2025
🫶𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: S. T. Fernandez

✨️𝗤𝘂𝗶𝗰𝗸 𝗦𝘂𝗺𝗺𝗮𝗿𝘆 & 🍵𝗧𝗲𝗮 𝗧𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀
Asherah Delmar, once heir to the throne of Atlantis, embarks on a mission in enemy territory—masquerading as Prince Lux’s betrothed to steal a goddess-level artifact. She leaves behind her unbonded mate, Commander Draevyn, and everything she thought she knew. In Corenathia, she must weave through palace intrigue, deception, and shifting loyalties to save her world while protecting the fragile bond she sacrificed everything for.

I really liked this sequel—I read the first book and loved how it set up Asherah’s complicated, high-stakes world, and this one dives even deeper. It feels like stepping into a gilded maze where every corridor hides traps—or unexpected allies. The stakes feel real because they hit home: love tangled in betrayal, identity bound to purpose, and the kind of sacrifice that haunts you long after the final page. Asherah is a queen in name and a survivor in spirit. Watching her navigate court games, shadowy alliances, and her own grief made me feel every heartbeat. And those moments—when she’s both vulnerable and unbreakable—landed me right in the storm with her.

🛡️ Undercover royal mission & political chess
🌊 Betrayal, sacrifice & forbidden bonds
⚔️ Power plays between rival kingdoms
🤍 Love, grief & legacy intertwined
👑 Female leadership under threat & scrutiny
Profile Image for Britt 🐺.
450 reviews16 followers
September 2, 2025
THE FOREVER QUEEN IS HERE! 🌋

I’m so proud of Stephanie for her newest book baby being released for the world to read. The Forever Queen was such a whirlwind of a book. I was feeling allllll the emotions. I loved getting to explore new places and meet new characters while following Ash on the next leg of her journey to Queen. This book got dark but I was here for it! The darkness brought another layer of emotion and grit to the story which I loved. We also get to see the relationship progression between Draevyn and Ash which had me full on swooning. And of course, the spice was spicing 🌶️

In The Forever Queen, we spend our time in Corenathia which is soooo different from Atlantis. I really loved getting closer to Lux. He is such a fun character, I adore him and his sass. WE LOVE OUR VOLCANO DADDY!!!!!

But that ending!?!?! Criminal. I need the next book STAT. I cannot wait to see where the story goes next!

Thank you SO much, Stephanie for the ARC 🖤
Profile Image for Jayme Ball.
318 reviews
September 4, 2025
4.25 stars
I had a GREAT time reading this book.

This book is like a high stakes scavenger hunt/heist and escape. And it's so well written. There's a whole cast of characters with parts great and small that all have roles to play in order to pull it off.

Asherah and Lux are engaged to be married in order to get inside Corenathia, the enemy realm of fire, to complete part of a quest. The Queen of Corenathia is... awful. I can't think of a better word. She rules fiercely and viciously. Humans are servants and entertainment in this realm and punishment for crimes committed are steep.

Asherah has to leave her realm of Atlantis in the awful hands of Melysah. A woman that claims to be rightful heir to the crown with a seat on the council with a vastly deep knowledge of all council rules and regulations. She will stop at nothing to have exactly what she wants and is highly manipulative.

It feels like we have many villains in this series... I love having people to hate.

Characters:
-Asherah is constantly learning and growing in her powers and I enjoy that part of the book the most of all. I enjoy how the powers manifest and the impact characters have on her development.
-Lux... I adore him. I enjoyed him in book 1, but now...
He's a character with depth and a tragic past. That's the way straight to my heart.
His siblings are mixed into this story and I wouldn't mind (and hope for) more of them in the future. I could handle a whole Lux novella.
-Draevyn (and Asherah)... I love the way they balance one another in their relationship and support some of the necessary evils that occur in their atypical life. I look forward to more of Draevyn in the books to come. He was a minor character of sorts in this one.


I did receive this book as an ARC and am grateful for the opportunity to provide my opinion...
The reasons it was not 5 stars for me:
-I did not care for Asherah unnecessarily putting herself in harms way by not biting her tongue knowing full well she's not necessarily the only one that suffers the consequences and that she had things she needed to get done. I get being hot headed, feisty, and what not... but... it felt... distracting
-Pacing felt a bit disjointed to me at times but not enough for me to be completely pulled out of the story.
-It felt all too convenient the timing of when they got back coinciding with the timing of another event they needed. I might have missed where that was purposely planned though.

I am not someone that cares much for spice, but I also don't mind it. I understand why people enjoy it. But this is a book where if you were to skip the spicy pepper scenes, you won't miss anything in the story. But if you skip on the book altogether, I do feel like you're missing something.

I will absolutely keep reading this series. I have to know where it's going and look forward to the battle of good vs. evil that is brewing.
Profile Image for Jenée Duran.
72 reviews3 followers
August 24, 2025
Thank you to S.T. Fernandez, NetGalley, and Azalea Press, LLC for providing me with this e-ARC to read!

Okay, this book picks up right from where The Veiled Heir leaves off and OMG it really kicks the series into high gear. Whereas The Veiled Heir was more like foundation-building for the series (in my opinion), this book kicks the action/adventure into place right away with high stakes missions just all over the place. I was so nervous the whole book, expecting the worst to happen and sometimes feeling like Ash/Draevyn/Lux just cannot catch a break anywhere. It definitely keeps the reader on the edge of their seat. Also, Lux? Grade A, top tier friend and character in this series. Big fan of this man.

I really liked that Ash had to do so much on her own in this book; not having Draevyn or any of her usual friends/protectors I feel really helped her develop as a character, learning to survive on her own without a safety net. I also liked that she started to really focus on big picture here; while it hurts her knowing and seeing that she can't save everyone, her acknowledgement of their sacrifices and not letting them have been in vain helps the reader empathize with her and the sacrifices she's making to her own feelings and humanity having to face these very serious issues without breaking down.

After so much turmoil and being denied their bonding ceremony in book 1, it was so satisfying for the reader to see not only Ash and Draevyn getting a little bit of happy in this book. It was also nice to see Lux and Cecylia get their own slice of happiness too; it just sucks that it was cut short for both of them at the end of this book. That was super disappointing, once again going back to these characters not seeming to be able to catch a break. But what would a romantasy series be without a little drama?!

I thought that this book was even better than The Veiled Heir but damn, was that cliffhanger at the end a killer. Guess I'm just going to have to wait for Book 3 to see how it all pans out! This one is a solid 4.25 stars for me, would definitely recommend this series to a friend :)
853 reviews19 followers
September 3, 2025
(4.5 rounded to 5 stars where necessary) I am voluntarily writing this honest review after reading a free ARC of this novel via the author. THE FOREVER QUEEN is the second book in the HEIR OF ATLANTIS series by S.T. Fernandez. Princess Asherah Delmar, former heir to the throne of Atlantis, made an enormous sacrifice undertaking a dangerous journey into the enemy realm of Corenathia, home of the Fire Fae. Asherah travelled there under the guise of a betrothal to Prince Lux Nacan in order to retrieve the Goddess’ artifact. She left her unbound mate and the state of the Queendom of Atlantis behind her in order to complete this necessary task. At the end of her journey, she found a dangerous and treacherous world filled with tyranny, but Asherah was determined to find the artifact and escape. As Queen Sessi’s treachery played out, she began to wonder whether she would get out of this quest with her life. This novel was just as enthralling as its’ predecessor, and I was engrossed from cover to cover. It ended with another crushing cliffhanger for Asherah, and I am anxious to read what will happen next. This is not a stand-alone novel, so reading the first book would be necessary before picking up this one, but I highly recommend this series. While this is about “the Fae,” not in the traditional sense of the Seelie and Unseelie courts. It is about magical beings from the four elements: water, fire, air, and earth. It is a first person, dual POV, open door, fantasy romance with tropes such as elemental fae, fake betrothal, prophecy, bondmates, secret identity, heroine’s quest, and a new dark realm. It is not a sophisticated story, but incredibly enjoyable and easy to read. If not for the explicit passages, I would consider it geared toward a YA audience. (I should mention that I love reading YA novels, so don’t consider that a criticism!) I recommend it for readers who enjoy new adult fantasy romance and are eighteen and older, due to explicit language and activities. There are a list of trigger warnings at the beginning of the book or on the author’s website. THE VEILED HEIR and THE FOREVER QUEEN are both available in the Kindle Unlimited program.
Profile Image for Lindsey Adams.
1,083 reviews22 followers
September 11, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️️⭐️/ ️🌶️🌶️🌶️

The long awaited book 2 in The Heir of Atlantis series is here! ST Fernandez has outdone herself in The Forever Queen. After ending book 1 like she did, I was ready for this one, but it stunned me as I read. The storyline is wonderfully paced, the characters are easy to connect to and feel for, and ST brings us her beautiful writing style. The world building continues to be epic with vivid imagery dripping from the pages. She immediately brought her readers into the story and didn’t let go until the very end.

Ash has already been through so much from book 1, but her journey is just beginning. Needing to complete her magical abilities, she must leave everyone she loves behind and venture to a new realm. She has always been strong and determined, but this book pushes her to her breaking point, truly showing readers how much she can persevere through anything. Of course, I devoured everything between her and Drae. Having them being distanced added to the love story and had me aching for them to be back together.

ST takes us to the fire realm in book 2. Ruled by an evil queen who wants nothing more than to see Ash fail, this realm is full of danger. As time runs out to complete her tasks, Ash is yearning to go home, while dealing with all the new characters within the fire realm. Who is an ally? Who is an enemy? Even those I disliked, I loved reading about and seeing how they added to the storyline.

This book leaves you wanting more, just as book 1 did. Book 3 can’t come soon enough and I am excited to see where ST takes her journey to next. The ending is so good and while it rips your heart out, like I said, it leaves you wanting more. Amazing characters, perfect plot line with twists and turns, and a love that expands time and space creates the perfect story that I highly recommend you read.

As always, review any author notes before reading.

What to Expect:
🔥Romantasy
💗Bond Mates
🔥Magic and Elements
💗Prophecy
🔥Political Intrigue
💗Atlantis Reimagined
Profile Image for Susmita Dhara.
119 reviews
July 22, 2025
I’m still salty over that cliffhanger from book one (how dare it??), so you know I dove headfirst into this sequel — and wow, what a ride!

This time, we leave the waters of Atlantis and step straight into the fire realm… and let me tell you, it is NOT a vacation spot. Between an evil queen, political unrest, and Ash racing the clock to complete her quest, the stakes have never been higher. And poor Ash — she’s out of her element, pretending to be engaged (hello, fake fiancé trope!), growing her powers, and trying not to die. Casual.

The world-building expands beautifully, and the political intrigue?? Chef’s kiss. While the first part felt a little slow (Ash, girl, just get to Corenthia already!), once the story hits the 30% mark, it’s GAME ON. The last 70% is packed with danger, action, betrayal, romance, and ✨bonding magic✨ that had me clutching my imaginary pearls.

Ash’s growth was phenomenal. Her journey felt real, raw, and powerful — and Draevyn? My heart. Their connection is so soft and steady in a world that keeps testing them. I swooned. I paced. I might’ve screamed at the pages a few times. No regrets.

And yes, the spice is toned down this round because of plot reasons (separation angst, anyone?), but when it hits? It’s hot. Like fire realm hot. 🔥

My only gripe? Some early pacing issues and Ash’s defiance in certain scenes felt… a bit forced. But those were minor bumps in an otherwise solid, emotional rollercoaster of a book.

And that ending? It hurts but also gave me just enough hope to emotionally function until book 3.

Also: Lux?? Unexpected crush unlocked.

Final thoughts: Sessi and Melysah can get yeeted into the sun. I said what I said.

If you’re into magical realms, high-stakes quests, fated mates, and cliffhangers that make you shout into the void, The Forever Queen needs to be on your TBR. 👑🔥
Profile Image for The Page Ladies Book Club.
1,756 reviews110 followers
August 31, 2025
I devoured The Forever Queen the moment I picked it up, and let me just say if I thought The Veiled Heir had high stakes, this sequel cranks the tension up to eleven!

Asherah is back, and once again she’s forced to make impossible choices. This time, she’s walking straight into the enemy’s lair, masquerading as Prince Lux’s betrothed in order to steal an artifact that could change the fate of Atlantis. I loved how Fernandez really leaned into the spy in a dangerous court vibe here. Corenathia is gorgeous but absolutely treacherous, and every page made me question who could be trusted, answer: basically no one.

The emotional weight of this book hit me even harder than the first. Asherah has to leave Draevyn behind and that unbonded mate pull between them? Torture. Every time his name came up, I felt the ache right alongside her. It’s that perfect mix of longing and duty that keeps you rooting for them through all the chaos.

I also really liked seeing Asherah grow into her role as not just a pawn in other people’s games but someone who’s learning how to play her own. She’s clever, vulnerable, and stubborn in a way that makes her feel so real even when she’s standing toe-to-toe with a queen who practically oozes menace. Queen Sessi is the kind of villain you love to hate, and her scenes were deliciously tense.

By the end, I was breathless. The political intrigue, the impossible bargains, the constant sense that time is running out it all builds to a finale that left me desperately needing the next book.

If you enjoyed the lush worldbuilding and romance of The Veiled Heir, The Forever Queen raises the bar with sharper twists, higher stakes, and a heroine who refuses to break even when the odds are stacked against her.

Profile Image for Linda.
Author 9 books77 followers
August 25, 2025
This is the 2nd book in The Veiled Heir series and follows Asherah's journey as she leaves her home kingdom of Atlantis for the realm of Corenathia with a secret mission.

Corenathia is a vastly different place from Atlantis, and the author was painstaking in her world-building here, providing an immersive experience to showcase the dangerous realm, its inequalities and cruelties.

The book was nail-biting from the start. There was so much subterfuge, and Ash was in so much danger, that I had anxiety reading. 

A note about female villains in this series - I abohored Melysah so much early on in The Veiled Heir and now in The Forever Queen, but then we got to the chapters with Sessi and I couldn't decide who I hated more. I wanted to claw both their eyes out!

The story showcased the deepening and wonderful friendship between Ash and Lux. I thoroughly enjoyed every moment with Lux, the mishaps, the trauma-bonding, and the vulnerabilities revealed. I don't know if Lux will return in other books but I hope he does.

Lastly, my favorite lines from the book (both of which were conversations that Ash had with Lux):

"That's okay, you know."
"What's okay?"
"To not feel okay."

and

"Hate only serves to destroy the one harboring the feeling. Hate is the claw of your enemy sinking itself into your soul."

No shade to Draevyn, but I'm a Lux fan if you can't tell. 

Loved this story so much. I can't wait for the next installment and Ash's adventures in Airelandia!
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