What do you think?
Rate this book
Thorns of a Crown
The epic series continues in book two!
Before the dawn of a new age can begin, the old one must die.
An empire will crumble. And a champion will lose.
It’s the same every millennia when the cycle of prophecy begins anew. One by one, the kingdoms of Teitora fall to the words of a book written long ago.
Samara Chrysos has assumed the title of princess of her father’s kingdom. Hiding in plain sight to shield herself from those who would see her executed simply for existing.
She once longed for adventure, now she simply hopes to survive.
To the empire, her sister, Odessa occupies the palace in their father’s absence. Only Samara and a few infuriatingly stubborn guards know the truth.
Odessa is gone, scouring the farthest reaches of the kingdom for a way to survive the looming prophecy that would usher in the end of everything she holds dear.
In her role, as the feared princess chosen by the Shadow Crown, stands Samara—a girl raised in isolation, unprepared and out of place. She knows little of the kingdom she was born into and even less of the storm that is fast approaching.
And it is coming.
Fire and ash. Flesh and blood. The empire will suffer the prophecies written long ago. Two sisters, destined to clash in battle. A forbidden guard, bound by oaths and secrets. And lies so dangerous, they could kill them all before the prophecy even has its chance.
Join Samara and Odessa once again as they fight the prophecy, their enemies, and each other.
Before the dawn of a new age can begin, the old one must die.
An empire will crumble. And a champion will lose.
It’s the same every millennia when the cycle of prophecy begins anew. One by one, the kingdoms of Teitora fall to the words of a book written long ago.
Samara Chrysos has assumed the title of princess of her father’s kingdom. Hiding in plain sight to shield herself from those who would see her executed simply for existing.
She once longed for adventure, now she simply hopes to survive.
To the empire, her sister, Odessa occupies the palace in their father’s absence. Only Samara and a few infuriatingly stubborn guards know the truth.
Odessa is gone, scouring the farthest reaches of the kingdom for a way to survive the looming prophecy that would usher in the end of everything she holds dear.
In her role, as the feared princess chosen by the Shadow Crown, stands Samara—a girl raised in isolation, unprepared and out of place. She knows little of the kingdom she was born into and even less of the storm that is fast approaching.
And it is coming.
Fire and ash. Flesh and blood. The empire will suffer the prophecies written long ago. Two sisters, destined to clash in battle. A forbidden guard, bound by oaths and secrets. And lies so dangerous, they could kill them all before the prophecy even has its chance.
Join Samara and Odessa once again as they fight the prophecy, their enemies, and each other.
- GenresFantasy
273 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 15, 2025
1 person is currently reading
27 people want to read
About the author
M. Lynn
58 books408 followersMichelle MacQueen is a USA Today bestselling author of love. Yes, love. Whether it be YA romance, NA romance, or fantasy romance (Under M. Lynn), she loves to make readers swoon.
The great loves of her life to this point are two tiny blond creatures who call her "aunt" and proclaim her books to be "boring books" for their lack of pictures. Yet, somehow, she still manages to love them more than chocolate.
When she's not sharing her inexhaustible wisdom with her niece and nephew, Michelle is usually lounging in her ridiculously large bean bag chair creating worlds and characters that remind her to smile every day - even when a feisty five-year-old is telling her just how much she doesn't know.
The great loves of her life to this point are two tiny blond creatures who call her "aunt" and proclaim her books to be "boring books" for their lack of pictures. Yet, somehow, she still manages to love them more than chocolate.
When she's not sharing her inexhaustible wisdom with her niece and nephew, Michelle is usually lounging in her ridiculously large bean bag chair creating worlds and characters that remind her to smile every day - even when a feisty five-year-old is telling her just how much she doesn't know.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
May 15, 2025
I received an eARC of this book from the authors. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of this review.
Thorns of a Crown by M. Lynn, Melissa A. Craven is the second installment in The Falling Kingdoms, a YA epic fantasy adventure. Picking up right where Shadows of a Crown left off, this story follows Odessa, the crowned princess, and Samara, the twin she didn’t know existed, as they fight fate to break the prophecies. If you have not read book one of this series, there may be spoilers to it ahead. Read at your own risk. Odessa and Zak are traveling across the Aleshaan Mountains in search of the dragons. Whoever controls the dragons controls the prophecy, or so Odessa believes. Having stolen away in the night, she left Samara no choice but to fill her shoes and pretend to be Odessa. With the help of Gideon, the head of Odessa’s Chosen, Samara makes her way back to Doragune and assumes the role of princess, hoping it won’t lead to her own death.
Odessa is on a mission to find the dragons. She’s headstrong and her thoughts are being tainted by the power of the Shadow crown. She’s hearing voices that are not her own, speaking with power she didn’t know she had, and all-in-all scaring poor Zak, the new keeper and Samara’s best friend. Zak has followed her because the Book of Prophecy told him to, and as its keeper, he’s inclined to follow its instruction. Their trek across the mountains is perilous, but also revealing. We learn a lot about the prophecies, where they originated, and who the key players are this cycle.
Across the continent, Samara is scared and feeling trapped. One wrong word, one wrong action could out reveal that she isn’t Princess Odessa. She’s coping with everything she’s lost: her home in Jinpoli, her makeshift family there, her best friend Zak leaving her, and now a sister who also left her. Honestly, I feel like she handles it well, better than I would. Gideon helps where he can, but the two clash constantly arguing. He is trying to guide her in what Odessa might do in situations, and she just wants to be seen as Samara. The danger she is in increases when someone from her past shows up at the castle, someone she thought dead.
While Shadows of a Crown focused on setting up the world and the characters, this book zooms in on the prophecies and fleshes out our main characters. It is intricate and laid out so as not be overwhelming for the reader. The POV alternates mostly between Odessa and Samara. We also get some perspectives from Zak as well as Luca, who plays a much bigger role than I originally thought. The plot is fast-paced. I did not want to sit it down. In fact, I finished it in two days.
Overall, I really enjoyed Thorns of a Crown. I think I may have even liked it more than the first book. I love how the authors show the relationships that are being forged and trust that is broken. It is easy to get sucked into the action and the plight facing each character. There is something for every reader here: action, adventure, romance, fantasy, and fate. If you are a fan of epic or high fantasy, I highly recommend it.
Thorns of a Crown by M. Lynn, Melissa A. Craven is the second installment in The Falling Kingdoms, a YA epic fantasy adventure. Picking up right where Shadows of a Crown left off, this story follows Odessa, the crowned princess, and Samara, the twin she didn’t know existed, as they fight fate to break the prophecies. If you have not read book one of this series, there may be spoilers to it ahead. Read at your own risk. Odessa and Zak are traveling across the Aleshaan Mountains in search of the dragons. Whoever controls the dragons controls the prophecy, or so Odessa believes. Having stolen away in the night, she left Samara no choice but to fill her shoes and pretend to be Odessa. With the help of Gideon, the head of Odessa’s Chosen, Samara makes her way back to Doragune and assumes the role of princess, hoping it won’t lead to her own death.
Odessa is on a mission to find the dragons. She’s headstrong and her thoughts are being tainted by the power of the Shadow crown. She’s hearing voices that are not her own, speaking with power she didn’t know she had, and all-in-all scaring poor Zak, the new keeper and Samara’s best friend. Zak has followed her because the Book of Prophecy told him to, and as its keeper, he’s inclined to follow its instruction. Their trek across the mountains is perilous, but also revealing. We learn a lot about the prophecies, where they originated, and who the key players are this cycle.
Across the continent, Samara is scared and feeling trapped. One wrong word, one wrong action could out reveal that she isn’t Princess Odessa. She’s coping with everything she’s lost: her home in Jinpoli, her makeshift family there, her best friend Zak leaving her, and now a sister who also left her. Honestly, I feel like she handles it well, better than I would. Gideon helps where he can, but the two clash constantly arguing. He is trying to guide her in what Odessa might do in situations, and she just wants to be seen as Samara. The danger she is in increases when someone from her past shows up at the castle, someone she thought dead.
While Shadows of a Crown focused on setting up the world and the characters, this book zooms in on the prophecies and fleshes out our main characters. It is intricate and laid out so as not be overwhelming for the reader. The POV alternates mostly between Odessa and Samara. We also get some perspectives from Zak as well as Luca, who plays a much bigger role than I originally thought. The plot is fast-paced. I did not want to sit it down. In fact, I finished it in two days.
Overall, I really enjoyed Thorns of a Crown. I think I may have even liked it more than the first book. I love how the authors show the relationships that are being forged and trust that is broken. It is easy to get sucked into the action and the plight facing each character. There is something for every reader here: action, adventure, romance, fantasy, and fate. If you are a fan of epic or high fantasy, I highly recommend it.
May 12, 2025
(4,5 ☆)
[Some minor spoilers if you haven't read the first book!]
"When the first and second collide, the dragons will arise."
Odessa, Crown Princess and future Queen, has left her sister Samara to act as her while she goes in search of the dragons. Odessa hopes that the dragons can help her to control the shadow crown that chose her. With her is Zak, Samara's best friend and the new keeper of the book of prophecies. Meanwhile Samara is doing her best to convince everyone that she's Odessa. Her life depends on it.
Besides the three already mentioned, we also get Luca's POV. Luca, who's also known as Fate, has three sisters: Life, Death and Chaos. They all have parts to play every time the prophecies begin a new cycle. I'm not yet fully aware of how, but I guess that will be answered further on in the series.
The romance part is really slow burn; only a few kisses have been shared so far. A new character is introduced. Damien is a powerful Lamia (a sort of water nymph) that Odessa's father has decided will marry his daughter. He offers some comic relief and I like him, contrary to some of the other characters. My feelings towards most of them are actually rather complicated, but I'm fully invested and ready to see where we're going from here!
[Some minor spoilers if you haven't read the first book!]
"When the first and second collide, the dragons will arise."
Odessa, Crown Princess and future Queen, has left her sister Samara to act as her while she goes in search of the dragons. Odessa hopes that the dragons can help her to control the shadow crown that chose her. With her is Zak, Samara's best friend and the new keeper of the book of prophecies. Meanwhile Samara is doing her best to convince everyone that she's Odessa. Her life depends on it.
Besides the three already mentioned, we also get Luca's POV. Luca, who's also known as Fate, has three sisters: Life, Death and Chaos. They all have parts to play every time the prophecies begin a new cycle. I'm not yet fully aware of how, but I guess that will be answered further on in the series.
The romance part is really slow burn; only a few kisses have been shared so far. A new character is introduced. Damien is a powerful Lamia (a sort of water nymph) that Odessa's father has decided will marry his daughter. He offers some comic relief and I like him, contrary to some of the other characters. My feelings towards most of them are actually rather complicated, but I'm fully invested and ready to see where we're going from here!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 14, 2025
Book 2 of the Queens of the Fated Empire
Thorns of a Crown raises the stakes in every way. As ancient prophecy resurfaces, the kingdoms of Teitora teeter on the edge of collapse. This sequel is rich with tension, emotional depth, and powerful worldbuilding. The characters—flawed, fierce, and unforgettable—struggle under the weight of fate and sacrifice, making every choice feel heartbreakingly real.
With elegant prose and nonstop suspense, Lynn and Craven deliver an epic continuation that’s both sweeping and intimate. Fans of prophecy-driven fantasy will be hooked.
Rating: ★★★★☆
Perfect for: Readers who love character-driven epic fantasy with magic, destiny, and heartbreak.
Thorns of a Crown raises the stakes in every way. As ancient prophecy resurfaces, the kingdoms of Teitora teeter on the edge of collapse. This sequel is rich with tension, emotional depth, and powerful worldbuilding. The characters—flawed, fierce, and unforgettable—struggle under the weight of fate and sacrifice, making every choice feel heartbreakingly real.
With elegant prose and nonstop suspense, Lynn and Craven deliver an epic continuation that’s both sweeping and intimate. Fans of prophecy-driven fantasy will be hooked.
Rating: ★★★★☆
Perfect for: Readers who love character-driven epic fantasy with magic, destiny, and heartbreak.
May 22, 2025
Discovering a twin sister to the princess seems like a bad omen, bringing the start of a new cycle which means destruction and death. The events are already in motion, and if the situation wasn't complicated yet, Odessa went on her own quest, searching for dragons and fighting the whispers of the Shadow crown, leaving Samara to play the role of the actual princess. Both discover dire truths and uncover secrets, and while their actions are vastly different, the motivation for both seems to be the same... only the means to the end differ.
I am absolutely hooked. The story is brilliant, full of tension and unpredictable moments, with great characters and very fast dynamic. Plot, characters, and relationships are developing rapidly, and I am very much enjoying the general atmosphere of the book, with heightened emotions, sense of urgency, and constant threat. And there are dragons!
I am absolutely hooked. The story is brilliant, full of tension and unpredictable moments, with great characters and very fast dynamic. Plot, characters, and relationships are developing rapidly, and I am very much enjoying the general atmosphere of the book, with heightened emotions, sense of urgency, and constant threat. And there are dragons!
October 26, 2025
Thorns of a Crown by M. Lynn and Melissa Craven is an emotionally charged, richly layered fantasy that deepens the intrigue and heartache of its predecessor. The authors deftly balance sweeping political tension with personal stakes, weaving a tale of twin sisters—Samara and Odessa—pulled to opposite sides of destiny. Their voices feel distinct yet deeply connected, grounding the epic scale of magic, prophecy, and rebellion in raw human emotion. Lynn and Craven’s worldbuilding feels lived-in and cinematic, with every choice carrying the weight of sacrifice. While it’s undeniably a bridge book, Thorns of a Crown never feels like filler—it’s a story of identity, power, and the painful beauty of transformation that leaves you eager for what comes next.
May 15, 2025
ARC review for the second book in The Falling Kingdoms series, comes back to Samara and Odessa trying to survive a prophecy. Full of a world brimming with suspense and danger, and characters whose emotional depth can be felt while reading. Once again I was pulled into a world that had me on edge with anticipation. These two authors really know how to weave a tale that holds your heart captive! Can’t wait for the third installment.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 29, 2025
This is the second book in the Falling Kingdoms series. After thoroughly enjoying the first book, I was eager to read this one. The book immediately drew me back into the story and swept me away. The characters developed beautifully, and I loved learning more about them. This book grabbed me even more than the first one and didn't let go. That's why I'm really looking forward to the third book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 3, 2025
Do you know what it's like waiting for the next installment in a series? Even when you are invested in the characters as you are reading, sometimes the wait blurs your memory. Not these characters though! Each is vividly real and the two separate main plot lines thrilling and unique enough to be remembered. This is a series worthy of an epic film or better yet a mini-series. The prose paints such realistic imagery that it feels just as much like something you have seen as a story you've read.
May 27, 2025
This is book 2 of The Falling Kingdoms series. This picks up where Shadows of a Crown left off. The story of Odessa and Samara attempts to keep the kingdom as is, is the most gripping and interesting. I cannot wait for book 3!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 30, 2025
Action, adventure, Prophecy and more. Two sisters against each other. Follow Odessa on her mission, can she accomplish it? If they find out the truth that Samara is not the real rincess what will happen. Follow this story to see how the prophecies pan out.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 26, 2025
this one picks up right after the events of the first and it doesn't slow down. A series worth checking out.
June 24, 2025
The Falling Kingdoms is a fabulous series … book 2 “Thorns of a Crown” by M. Lynn was great and cannot wait for more
July 11, 2025
‘The dragons are on the move’…
…and they ‘will make themselves known’.
‘A ruthless leader to make the difficult choices that will ensure Teitora’s survival.’
The rulers chosen by the Shadow Crown don’t cause the trying times, but rather are selected because they are strong enough to fight the evil. This leads me to ask if this is even a prophecy or merely that the Shadow Crown is a tried & true tool for when history repeats itself? Perhaps the powers that be understand what’s happening in the world and simply nudge the necessary person into place? Similar to the “ax-men” hired by corporations to cut costs, increase productivity, etc. (I worked for such a C-suite manager – and his talents were very much-needed). Made me think…
LUV me some of Andi’s snark:
‘A princess, a keeper, and a guy named Fate walk into a tavern… Sounds like the start of a bad joke.’
Now, time for some scones and jam with cream. Or maybe homemade dragon bread with cinnamon butter and ‘strong coffee with thick cream’ Yummers!
…and they ‘will make themselves known’.
‘A ruthless leader to make the difficult choices that will ensure Teitora’s survival.’
The rulers chosen by the Shadow Crown don’t cause the trying times, but rather are selected because they are strong enough to fight the evil. This leads me to ask if this is even a prophecy or merely that the Shadow Crown is a tried & true tool for when history repeats itself? Perhaps the powers that be understand what’s happening in the world and simply nudge the necessary person into place? Similar to the “ax-men” hired by corporations to cut costs, increase productivity, etc. (I worked for such a C-suite manager – and his talents were very much-needed). Made me think…
LUV me some of Andi’s snark:
‘A princess, a keeper, and a guy named Fate walk into a tavern… Sounds like the start of a bad joke.’
Now, time for some scones and jam with cream. Or maybe homemade dragon bread with cinnamon butter and ‘strong coffee with thick cream’ Yummers!
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews