The Queen and the Half-blood

The Unforgiven #1

by Jayne Castel

Some alliances are forged in desperation. Some burn everything down.

Enemies-to-lovers. Marriage of convenience with a morally grey hero you'll never forget. Slow-burn steam that will leave you breathless. Celtic mythology meets Frog Prince vibes. First in an epic duology. Perfect for fans of LJ Andrews and Rachel Gillig.

Lara’s kingdom is dying.

The enemy has claimed the North—a fae army poised to take the rest of Albia. If she doesn’t reclaim her stolen lands, her people will become slaves. Or worse, be wiped from existence entirely.

She’s out of options. Out of time. Out of hope.

Until he offers her a deal.

Alar, the half-fae, half-human outcast who saved her life, leads an army of wulvers. He's spent his life in the shadows, but now he’s ready to step into the light … and he wants power. Her throne. Her kingdom.

Her.

The deal is simple: he’ll fight for Albia if she marries him and makes him co-ruler.

Previously married to a brute—she swore never again. But Alar isn't like her first husband. He's dangerous in a different way. Under his feral exterior lies a man carrying wounds deeper than her own.

As battles rage and betrayals mount, Lara discovers that the greatest threat might not be the enemy at her gates … but the man sharing her bed.

Dive into a Celtic Romantasy with forbidden magic, impossible choices, and a marriage that could save—or shatter—a kingdom.

Genres: Fantasy, Fae, Magic, Mythology, Romance

382 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 25, 2025

About the author

Multi-award-winning author Jayne Castel writes epic Historical and Fantasy Romance. Her vibrant characters, richly researched historical settings and action-packed adventure romance transport readers to forgotten times and imaginary worlds.

Jayne is the author of a number of best-selling series. In love with all things Scottish, she writes romances set in both Dark Ages and Medieval Scotland.

When she's not writing, Jayne is reading (and re-reading) her favorite authors, cooking Italian feasts, and going on long walks with her husband. She's from New Zealand, but now lives in Edinburgh, Scotland.

Sign up to Jayne's newsletter and get a free bundle of short stories! https://www.jaynecastel.com/

Jayne loves to hear from her readers - email her at: contact@jaynecastel.com

Connect with Jayne on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaynecastel...
Connect with Jayne on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JayneCastelR...
Follow Jayne on Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/jaynecastel/...
Follow Jayne on BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/jayne...

Reviews

[MyRomanceHasNoLimits · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an immersive read, where the prose helps to take to an ancient Celtic world. But don’t think you will have trouble reading about the deadly spirits, the bog, the fae creatures and monsters ready at every corner to trick you and kill.
You will follow Lara, the new unprepared young Queen, navigate politics, old customs, forbidden magic, prejudice, wulvers, an evil Fae Queen’s army invasion, betrayal, her people’s acceptance and so much more (in the shape of a handsome half-blood 😏)

As I dutifully informed the author, I need the next book of this duology(to be released in December) this instant 😂🥲

I pre-ordered the digital but was very lucky to get the ARC!

I sincerely advise you to start on the previous duology,, starting with Bound By Deception, to get a better introduction to our Queen and to meet Bree (one of my favorite FMCs)

[Hannah B · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Queen and the Half Blood was a captivating read that kept me fully engaged and eagerly turning its pages. I received an ARC of this book and I am happy to review it with my own thoughts.

Jayne Castel is a talented storyteller who always manages to successfully bring her characters to life. I’ve really enjoyed her step into fantasy with this new series, and it’s without a doubt my new favorite of hers!

Lara is perhaps my favorite heroine this author has ever wrote. I really empathize with her feelings of melancholy and isolation, yet no matter how she feels, she does her best to project strength and stays the course no matter what. I admire her determination and I enjoyed how Alar began to bring her out of her shell.

Now, what to say about Alar! He was a great trickster character who I definitely wanted to root for. As a light spoiler, be prepared to be very unhappy with him at the end of this book. His inevitable betrayal is foreshadowed all throughout the story so I don’t know how much of a spoiler this really is. I will say, Jayne did get me with the level of betrayal, despite the hints she had been dropping, I didn’t quite expect that! Though in hindsight, when considering the numerous times the numbers of their respective forces was dropped, after finishing the book I did realize that should have been my first guess. But nonetheless, I still really like that sly dog! He had one of my favorite personalities for a love interest.

I assume Jayne will have the required levels of groveling and repairing their bond in the next book. And after an appropriate amount of angst, I’m really looking forward to it!

I highly recommend The Queen and the Half Blood as a delightful read full of emotion and enchantment. I eagerly await the next book in the series to see how these two love birds’ stories unfold!

[Gg Tames · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG!! This book was FANTASTIC, FABULOUS, FANTABULOUS!!! I can't believe I have to wait until December for the sequel!! The characters are fascinating. Lara has developed into a real badass, and I love, love, LOVE Alar!! This anti-hero is so very vulnerable in such a twisted way that he brough tears to my eyes at times. Lara as well, so lonely and vulnerable really touched my soul. Of course, the background story (Mirren) is just as heartbreaking, and I hope she grows into a badass with a backbone of steel. I really feel for her. The plot is so deliciously twisted that I had trouble tracking certain details and had to re-read it again to catch on to everything going on, but that's my bad for being so eager for this book I read it in one afternoon the first time around. One thing I would like to bring up though, the Wulvers. I saw them as benevolent characters at the beginning of the book and in the other two books set in this world we caught glimpses of them in a very benevolent light. I refuse to believe they are traitors. I think they will surprise us at the end, just like our two main characters. I give this book two thumbs and two toes up, that's how good I think it is. Loved it!! Write fast!!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Angela Pearse · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wild ride! Really enjoyed this Celtic Romantasy set in the realm of Albia, which features in the author's previous duology Bound by Deception and Ashes of Betrayal.

High Queen Lara is so relatable and you're rooting for her from the get go having to broker an arranged marriage to a man she clearly doesn't trust in order to save her people. Alar was an enigmatic character and I liked getting to know him through his own POV.

I also liked the array of mythical creatures that feature in the story (and are lodged in actual Scottish folklore). They added an exciting element of danger and suspense, especially the Slew - I wouldn't want to encounter those on a dark winter's night!

Highly recommend, and I can't wait for the next book in the duology to find out what happens next after that doozy of a cliffhanger!

[Lumie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Book Sirens for the ARC.

Plot 3.75/5
Characters 3.75/5
Ending 4/5
Interest 4/5

Overall 3.75/5

-These types of books are very often kind of hit or miss for me. And this one was a good one. The atmosphere felt kind of dark, with a war looming over, a deal for a queen’s hand in marriage, there were many elements to make this great. I enjoyed it overall and was invested in the world and how the characters were dealing with the battles.

-The characters were alright. Lara was a strong headed queen trying her best to take care of her friends and her people. Alar is the half-blood of proposes a marriage bargain to the queen. Their relationship was interesting because he seemed like a great guy, trying to do good by Lara. He never wanted to make her do something she didn’t do and that was great.

-The ending was where things really picked up. The book itself was quite slow because it felt like it was a lot of war strategy but at the end, there was quite a big switch which turned the whole situation on its head and that is where I felt truly invested in the story. I would like to read book 2 and considering it’s only a duology, I would love to see the whole story through.

[Chere Gruver · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can Lara actually become the High Queen of Albia?

Now that her father and her brother are both dead, Lara has become the High Queen. She is definitely not ready for the challenge but will do her best to care for her people—not like her father did, however. Against her better judgement, Lara decides to handfast herself to the Half-Blood since he commands an army of wulvers, which will enable her to take back the land she has lost. This is not my first Jayne Castel book and I can promise it will not be the last. Her writing makes me feel as if I can see the corpse candles myself, along with the other faerie creatures she describes so well and that I am in medieval Scotland. The plot keeps moving right along and doesn’t bog down and I cannot wait for Book 2 of The Unforgiven! A story by Jayne Castel reminds me why I fell in love with medieval Scottish romances and this one is no exception.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Madeleine Hunt · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Queen and the Half-Blood is an enemies to lovers romantasy jam packed with action and mystery. A definite page turner!

The plot was thick with Celtic folklore, a great read for any historical and Scottish fantasy lovers. The Celtic world they live in and the magical creatures and spirits that the characters have to contend with made for an action packed plot. The High Queen is fighting for her place in her kingdom and Alar takes advantage of her at her lowest point. Alar has so many secrets.. and he’s a hard character to trust from the beginning. The author does a great job of making you want to like him.. then BAM!

This story ends on a cliffhanger and what a cliffhanger it is! I’m not sure how Lara and Alar can come back from that one but I am looking forward to continuing their story with book 2. I think our characters have many more secrets they haven’t told us about yet!

Courtesy of BookSirens, I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Angela Brannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Queen and the Half-Blood is Book 1 of The Unforgiven duology but starts up right after Ashes of Betrayal, book 2 in The Enforcers Bride duology. While it can be read as a stand-alone, the events will make more sense if you read Bound By Deception and Ashes of Betrayal first.

Lara is a great leading lady. We are introduced to her in The Enforcers Bride duology where she becomes close to Bree before her brother is killed in a Shee raid. Lara becomes the heir to the throne, a role she never expected to fill. In The Queen and the Half-blood, she is thrust into the position of high queen of a kingdom at war with the much stronger invading Shee after her father's death in battle. She rises to the challenge with poise and grace in the face of constant criticism from those who say a woman is not fit to rule a kingdom.

Lara has a lot of growing to do in this book, including coming to grips with a mysterious and forbidden power that is beginning to show itself at inopportune times. Lara and her friends are a group I would love to hang out with. The characters are all carryovers from the previous duology, and you will appreciate them much better if you read the series in order. Bree, her warder, has gone through so much and always has Lara's back, Mirren, her lady-in-waiting, has become a dear friend and much more than a servant to Lara.

Alar, the leader of the wulvers, is a total hottie. He has been fighting the prejudices and injustices that the gentle wulvers have been subjected to by the Marav for so long that he has major trust issues. He is striving to carve out a place in society for the wulvers so they aren't forced into the forests and corners of the kingdom like Lara's father decreed. I loved Alar’s determination to make a better world for his people, and I was pulling for him to open up and trust Lara with his heart.

Lara must pull together allies to bolster her battered army, and reluctantly accepts a pact with Alar to gain the strength and numbers of the wulver army. She has vowed to never remarry after her brute of a husband is killed in the war, but is forced into marriage to secure her alliance. Can Alar change her mind and win her heart?

This story is so action packed there is never a let-up. Attacks come fast and furious from all quarters and everyone must pull together to keep the evil creatures crawling out of Shehallion and from the dark corners of the human world at bay. But the biggest attack comes at the cliffhanger ending, and the betrayal will leave you breathless. I did not see it coming and it took me totally by surprise! I can't wait for the second book to see how it all plays out.

I read an advance copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Luminea · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am completely obsessed with the dark Celtic fantasy world of Albia and its inhabitants! Jayne Castel's deeply atmospheric writing immerses the reader in a lush and eerie landscape where the fearsome creatures of Scottish folktales are vividly brought to life.

Here we meet sinister powries, whose red caps are soaked in the blood of their victims, bloated bog wights dragging travellers into the fertid water to drown, and the terrifying spirits of the Slew. There are water horses and fae hounds, and the Washerwoman who foretells death or might grant a wish if you catch her unaware. The author's descriptions of these creepy beings totally gave me chills!

I was a couple of chapters into The Queen and the Half-Blood when I realized that there was an earlier duology set in this same world. So I paused my reading of this book to immerse myself in The Enforcer's Bride series. While this wasn't necessary, I'm so glad that I did, because I was completely captivated by the story of Bree and Cailean, and swept away by this dark and alluring fantasy world. It also provided a window into Lara's past that gave me a greater appreciation of her character's development.

Upon returning to the The Queen and the Half-Blood, I absolutely devoured it! Lara is like a phoenix rising from the ashes of all the men who have betrayed her, stepping into her own power and fanning the flames of her courage. It was such a joy to see Lara's transformation from a vulnerable young woman in need of protection to a competent leader capable of using her gifts to defend her people in return.

Alar is also a deeply layered and appealing character with many wolf-like traits. He is feral yet tender, devoted but also conflicted in his loyalty. I was fascinated by his backstory and the wulvers. The cliffhanger at the end of this story is painful, and I am dying for Alar to redeem himself!

I simply cannot get enough of Albia and her people! Not only do I need the sequel to this book now, but I also need a duology about Mirren and Torren, as well as several others! There are so many fantastic secondary characters who are deeply interesting and deserve a book of their own.

I'm grateful to Book Sirens for providing me with an ARC of this book and introducing me to Jayne's wonderful writing. I am leaving this review voluntarily. I have since purchased several of the author's other books and look forward to reading more of her work!

[Dayna Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arc Review✨
Thank you to the author Jayne Castel for sending me this digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.

-All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Rich, Character-Driven Fantasy That Builds Beautifully on the Past

The Queen and the Half-blood is a stunning return to Jayne Castel’s vivid fantasy world. Readers who’ve followed the previous duology will feel right at home, as many beloved characters reappear — stronger, more complex, and even more compelling than before.

Lara, our young queen, has a tremendous journey ahead of her. As she grapples with leadership, loyalty, and a forbidden power that begins to surface at the worst possible moments, you can’t help but root for her. Her growth is at the heart of the story, and it’s handled with nuance and care.

The supporting cast truly shines. Bree, her loyal warder, is fierce, steadfast, and quietly powerful — the kind of protector anyone would want by their side. Mirren, Lara’s lady-in-waiting, is far more than a servant; she’s a true friend and emotional anchor, adding warmth and humanity to Lara’s journey.

And then there’s Alar — the brooding, principled, and yes, undeniably swoon-worthy leader of the wulvers. Castel doesn’t just write a love interest here — she crafts a fully realized character battling prejudice, trauma, and a lifetime of injustice. His mission to create a safe place for the wulvers, in the face of deep-rooted Marav oppression, is both timely and deeply moving. Watching him slowly open up and begin to trust Lara was one of the highlights of the book.

The themes of found family, identity, and overcoming division are seamlessly woven into a story that never sacrifices emotional resonance for action. The world-building is layered and alive, and the relationships — romantic, platonic, and political — are full of tension and tenderness.

This is a fantastic start to a new series — emotional, adventurous, and deeply human. Highly recommended, especially for those who’ve read Castel’s earlier books.

[Alison · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Queen and the Half-blood
An Epic Celtic Romantasy
Jayne Castel
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Lara is a High Queen without allies. The enemy rules half of her realm, and the other half is about to rebel. She needs help or Albia will fall to the Fae.
Then one night Lara is lured into the woods by corpse candles, and a handsome stranger saves her from a grisly death.

This was Lara's first time meeting the half-blood, but it won't be her last.

Alar is half Fae and half human. He was cast out of society for being who he is and has lived for so long in the shadows. Now he's ready to step into the light once more. He wants revenge and he wants power. Two things he believes he will receive if he fights for the High Queen. He'll fight and bring an army of wulvers with him as long as she accepts him as her husband and allows him to co-rule with her.

Lara's kingdom is slowly dying, and she will do anything to save it, so she accepts Alar as her husband, but she doesn't know him. She doesn't know his plans.

Wow, this book was incredible. Jayne Castel tries her hand at romantsy and totally rocks it. This book had me from the get go and I couldn't put it down. The way it ended was so different than I'm used to, but now I can't wait for the next book. Alar was strong and he had real feelings for Lara. Lara is one tough cookie, and the perfect young Queen. These two main characters were absolutely brilliant together. Ms. Castel you have totally amazed me with this book.

Note: This book ends on a cliffhanger so be prepared to read the next book when it comes out.

[Chi Chang]

As expected, The Queen and the Half-blood is a very well-written story. I had been waiting for this book since its announcement from the previous duology, and it did not disappoint. The world-building and the pacing of the story were just right, showing us the troubles and complicated relationships between the Marav and wulvers. Our main heroine, Lara, is a well-rounded character, blending a strong female lead with vulnerability, particularly given the circumstances she has been thrust into as the High Queen. The relationship between her and our main hero, Alar, was such a beautiful yet heartbreaking thing to read and witness. There is a complexity to Alar that you, as the reader, can feel from his entrance to the end of the first book. Similar to Lara, you wish that the layers surrounding him could be broken, and you yearn for their happiness because they are both lonely souls who see and complement each other very well. I loved the loyalty, support, and trust that Lara and Alar gave each other, despite the interesting twist at the end. Especially how Alar protects Lara - not stifling, not overbearing, but enough that she can step into her own power. Just how will they and we, as the reader, come back from that heart-wrenching revelation!? I can't wait to see more on how their relationship develops, how they will survive, and navigate this cruel twist.

[Lara · Rating 4 out of 5]

The first thing I notice about Jayne Castel's books are the beautiful covers. The Queen and the Half-blood is a romantasy steeped in celtic and pictish legend. The first in the Unforgiven series. Although I've read a few of Castel's books in the past, this is the first romantasy. I believe that there may be other stories that connect to this one and may provide some additional context and world building. This story can be read on it's own, but there were definitely a few things that I was confused about and a few additional hints about the world would help.

The story focuses on Lara, the High Queen, who takes the offer of a half-fae to help in a war in exchange for marriage. Although Lara has no desire to marry, she soon finds herself falling for her new husband. However, not everything is as it seems. The story ends on a cliff hanger, with Lara and her kingdom in flux. I'm giving this one 3.5 stars and will look forward to book two.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Rose Seals · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very well written , full of drama, intrigue, suspense, action, emotions, danger, betrayal, twists and turns. May have some triggers, please read the authors warnings. High Queen Lora is ready to take on a fight to take back lands that her late father has lost. She is in a fight and it isn't going well. She meets Alar, a half blood , who offers her help to fight and win back some of her land using his troops. Alar has his own secrets that will hurt her and her people but feels it's what is do him and his people. They make an agreement and plan to marry. Lora is also working to control of her secret, she is a fire weilder. Now married, Alar is aware of this secret. The march to the other forts is long with lots of action happening. Alar betrays her after his troops take over 2 of the forts that she won. Will have to wait for the next book to find out what, when and how things happen for Lora and Alar. Ends on a cliffhanger but will keep you on the edge and wanting more. Would strongly recommend to others.

I received this story and leave this unbiased, honest review.

[Ann Gonzalez · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book took me on an emotional roller coaster of loving and hating Alar, the Half-blood. Lara, the High Queen, was someone I knew would only grow stronger throughout this book once she took over after her father's death. The author did an amazing job of writing Lara as a strong queen, yet still showed her vulnerability. I was thrilled Cailean, Bree, and Skaal are still at Lara's side, protecting her.
The book flows at a nice pace and is hard to put down. There is a lot going on, and it can be hard to keep track of characters at times, so full attention is needed. There are a few well-written spicy scenes and fould language for those that don't care for it.
Let me be clear that I normally don't read fantasy, but for this amazingly talented author, I will not hesitate. I am desperately awaiting book 2 of this duology.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lynn P · Rating 5 out of 5]

Laura became queen with the death of her brother and father and has to prove her ability to rule. Since the Shee attacked Doure and has taken possession, she will attack and reclaim Doure. But, her troops are obviously failing when Alar, half fae, half human offers her a solution. Can she trust him to save her and her people?
Alar was cast out as a child and has to fend for himself. Wulvers saved him from hanging and offer him a safe place. He is filled with rage and revenge for himself and the wulvers who are also not accepted into society.
You can always expect a good story from Jayne Castle and this is a great one. It has everything; great characters, revenge, treachery, fantasy, Celtic lore and possibly love. It ended in a cliffhanger. The next three months will drag waiting for the next book in the duology, “The Burning Crown Book Two: The Unforgiven release date 12/18/2025. I can't wait!

[Fiona · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW!!!
I am a big fan of Jayne Castel’s Highland books so I was nor sure with this change to a Fae type story. I am also a bit picky when it comes to fae stories. But this book was far from a disappointment.
The book grabbed you right away with its characters and story and pulled you right into the story as if you were in it. It is a very compelling story. The characters both normal and fae all face relatable struggles and issues in life. In the story you will find love, betrayal, loyalty, hate, war and personal growth and discovery
The end is a bit of a cliff hanger but book 2 is only around the corner to finish off the great story.
I would recommend this book series to anyone. Looking forward to book 2!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Rainelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed the story. The characters were very intriguing more so for Alar. I liked his character even more. He brought character, mystery and allure to the story. Lara is a brilliant Queen when it came to the emotional and leadership demands between her people and Alar. The book was interesting and for the most part a fun read. I did have some issues to were the challenges and the adversaries Lara and her followers faced. I would of like to read from the villains pony of view as well. This book is more of a one sided telling. I missed the excitement and anticipation of a good twist to the plot. More engagement from other characters. I wanted that push pull effect that the real effects of going to war and political battles among the people. I miss the imagination with the characters, the story and the plot. Until next time readers. Read on!

[Lyn Brownlie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unlikely duo
This story is set in the same world as The Enforcers Bride and I love that Cailean and Bree feature in it.
Lara has taken over as High Queen now and needs to stop the Fae Queen before she invades her kingdom and all the lands.
With an unlikely coupling with Alar, Half-fae, half-human she accepts his proposal and her fate is sealed.
With plenty of action, danger, spice and all the magical beasts they encounter along the way, this story had me engrossed from the very start so much so, that I couldn’t put it down.
Amazing storyline with fantastic characters but be aware that this is a duology that ends in a cliffhanger.
I can’t wait to read the next book to find out what happens next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Cherie S · Rating 5 out of 5]

Believe It or Not This is OneThrilling Love Story
This author has written the most dynamic imaginative book that took me into a unique realm that completely captivated me from the very start.
The entire cast of characters is nothing short of fascinating along with a plot that is filled with so many gripping scenes, strange creatures with stranger names, terrifying battles, betrayals, heated passion, and so much more.
This is a genre that I don't usually read but this authors descriptive writing took me right into the pages of this story
🤔Seriously, this book is incredible even though it doesn't finish the story until the next book
✔Mature Advisory 🔥🔥🔥
✔Favorite Fun Character: Skaal the fae dog💖

[Avid Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first book in a new duology in this epic series. Lara was never meant to rule but after the death of her brother then her parents she is left altogether reign as The High Queen. Her father's reign and brutal treatment of other supernatural beings has left her without allies in a world filled with war. In desperation she agrees to a bargain with a half blood Fae/human Alarm and his army of Wulvers against the wishes of her Council and close confidantes. A fast paced action packed book full of myths, legends, superstitions, greed, betrayal, prejudice, abuse but also love, loyalty and friendship. The cliffhanger ending is perfect and I cannot wait for the conclusion.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Frank · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quite a ride!

The four main characters (Lara, Ala, Bree, & Cailean) are very well drawn.

There is good scene setting right from the start - provides sufficient background to get into the plot quickly but with plenty of hooks for future expansion.

The descriptive narrative throughout is high quality, especially the delicately written scenes regarding the "wedding night" (balancing fear & dread against tenderness & care) and the pain of past betrayals.

The action, tension, and emotion build throughout - right up to the edge of that cliff at the end of the book ... Roll on December for the sequel!


(I was fortunate to receive an ARC however the above is, as ever, my own opinion.)

[Becca Storm · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book drew me in from the start and having characters I was familiar with from another series, helped to quickly build my intrigue.

There is lush world building, the plot grips immediately, the characters have flaws and hidden secrets. The Celtic themes are great and stay true to Scottish mythology and folklore whilst bringing it to life on the page.

The narrative builds to the dramatic ending and although I knew something was brewing, I didn't predict the outcome.

I am looking forward to the next instalment where I'm sure it will deliver the same intrigue and the love, deception and betrayal captured in book 1.

You'll enjoy this book if you like Outlander or Wheel of Time. An enjoyable read!

[Rachel (Get Booked with Rae) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jayne Castel has done a number on my sanity with this one!

I devoured the enforcers bride Duology and have been waiting for this ever since! The story of that world continues as the Raven queens threat of war is eminent. Lara, the high Queen is desperate to form her alliance. Thus her hand fasting to a Halfblood with his own secrets and plans.

Their relationship grows slowly. Then just when we think they will live happily ever after: the world turns upside down for Lara.

I loved the Celtic mystical elements woven into the story in such a fantastic way. The ending of this one is not for the faint of heart. But I have a feeling we will see some redemption in book 2.

Now, I can’t wait to get my hands on book 2: the burning crown.

[theresa simington · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book was extremely suspenseful and a page turner. This book is book 1 in a 2 book series cliffhanger. And what a cliffhanger, wow. Strong character development, with mythological creatures. Strong plot. Slightly dark mood. Not sure how the Queen and the Half blood can resolve this type of betrayal. The author has trigger warnings. Please read the warnings. I had no issues reading this book. Totally looking forward to the next and final book. I recommend reading this book. I got this as an ARC and leaving an honest and voluntary review.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is part one of a story set in ancient Scottish folklore with dangerous mythological creatures.
It contains a little of everything – suspense, deceit, secrets, action, betrayal and romance.

It ends on a cliffhanger

This is a follow up series after the Enforcers Bride duology. Although it contains characters and mention events from that series it can be read without reading the previous series although I think it will be better enjoyed if you know at least a little of the background.

How will Lara ever recover from the betrayal?
I really enjoyed this book and am looking forward to the next.

I received a free copy of this book and freely and honestly leave my review.

[Claire · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I liked this book right from the beginning and I am not necessarily a great fan of romantsy. Also, I am definitely NOT a fan of cliffhangers, so why the 5 stars? First of all, I AM a fan of Ms. Castel. She is very good at what she does! Secondly, this was a great story, well written with engaging characters. So jump right in and wait anxiously for the next book in the story along with all the rest of us. I have no idea how the characters will resolve such a serious situation but I’m more than ready to find out!

[Cody Marie Phoenix · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finding familiar characters from the first set of books within these pages made it seem as this was a continuation of the story, just focusing on a different couple. Lara and Alar are great characters to set against each other, or cozy up to each other. Skaal is funny in the way she flabbergasted the chief enforcer, but a girl has the choice to choose which males to cling too! The ending was expected, but still exasperating and December is still months away for the conclusion. Sad that!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Brooke Scudder · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book! While I found myself wishing for a bit more background and world-building at times, I’ve since learned there’s another series set in the same universe — so I’m definitely planning to dive into that before starting book two.

One of the standout elements for me was how the FMC discovered and developed her magic. It felt unique and I was completely hooked watching her grow into her power. I also loved the spice — it was perfectly done.

And that ending? Total cliffhanger. I need the next book in my hands ASAP.

But what truly sold it for me was the FMC herself. She’s strong, smart, and relatable. I’m fully invested in her journey and can’t wait to see where the story takes her next!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Rena Petroutsa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Scottish folklore meets The Rings of Power and Game of Thrones. THE QUEEN AND THE HALF-BLOOD is an epic Fantasy Romance, set in a dark and lush world inspired by Celtic myth, with a marriage of convenience, delicious spice, and a morally grey hero who will break your heart.
Engaging storytelling as always with jayne castel, that draws you in and never let you leave until the last page. It is full of the perfumes of Scotland, wonderful plot and characters. One of my fav authors now in this genre. Go for it it's a sure thing