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Fractured Kingdom #3
Destiny
Persephone's final battle awaits in this last installment of the epic YA romantasy trilogy, The Fractured Kingdom. For fans of Leigh Bardugo's Shadow and Bone series.
On the heels of a tragic discovery, Persephone was all but torn from Azriel’s waiting arms. She now finds herself desperately alone, in terrible danger and burdened by responsibilities she would do almost anything to escape.
But some responsibilities are inescapable, and Persephone is not the girl she once was. Knowing that the clans are in mortal peril and that the realm is descending into chaos, she is fiercely determined to defeat Mordesius and set things to right for all people.
But she cannot imagine doing so without the handsome thief she has fallen helplessly, hopelessly in love with.
And so, armed with nothing but her wit, her dagger and her dauntless courage, Persephone races across the realm in search of Aziel and a path forward. As the stakes rise ever higher, loyalties shift, disasters strike and catastrophic grief gives way to inexpressible joy.
And just when it seems like it’s finally over, the Fates play their cruelest trick of all . . .
In this epic, exhilarating final adventure in the Fractured Kingdom trilogy, destiny is coming for the girl who started it all.
On the heels of a tragic discovery, Persephone was all but torn from Azriel’s waiting arms. She now finds herself desperately alone, in terrible danger and burdened by responsibilities she would do almost anything to escape.
But some responsibilities are inescapable, and Persephone is not the girl she once was. Knowing that the clans are in mortal peril and that the realm is descending into chaos, she is fiercely determined to defeat Mordesius and set things to right for all people.
But she cannot imagine doing so without the handsome thief she has fallen helplessly, hopelessly in love with.
And so, armed with nothing but her wit, her dagger and her dauntless courage, Persephone races across the realm in search of Aziel and a path forward. As the stakes rise ever higher, loyalties shift, disasters strike and catastrophic grief gives way to inexpressible joy.
And just when it seems like it’s finally over, the Fates play their cruelest trick of all . . .
In this epic, exhilarating final adventure in the Fractured Kingdom trilogy, destiny is coming for the girl who started it all.
Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2014
9 people are currently reading
3941 people want to read
About the author
M.L. Fergus
4 books44 followersAuthor also writes as Maureen Fergus
M.L Fergus also writes illustrated kids books under the name Maureen Fergus. Her many books have been translated into more than a dozen languages, optioned for television, adapted for stage and won or been shortlisted for numerous prestigious awards. She lives in Winnipeg, Canada with her family.
M.L Fergus also writes illustrated kids books under the name Maureen Fergus. Her many books have been translated into more than a dozen languages, optioned for television, adapted for stage and won or been shortlisted for numerous prestigious awards. She lives in Winnipeg, Canada with her family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
March 25, 2025
I like to thank the publisher and NetGalley for allowing me to finish up this joy of a series.
Sure some small things weren't really figured out, but overall I had a blast! This was a YA fantasy (guess you could also say adult at times given the villain and the things he thought / did) that for the first time didn't seem to really talk down to the readers. The narrative fit at home with Princess Bride with the tone and sometimes the humor, but there was so much to love.
The growth the characters went through in three books made the story an absolute delight to see to the end. The ending was the best part, but falls short a star because you never seemed to really get answers (or maybe I missed them) on a few characters and their purpose.
The villain is an absolute delight and purely why I enjoyed this series so much. I hope Miss Fergus writes us another fantasy book or books in the future with a villain as enjoyable as this one.
Sure some small things weren't really figured out, but overall I had a blast! This was a YA fantasy (guess you could also say adult at times given the villain and the things he thought / did) that for the first time didn't seem to really talk down to the readers. The narrative fit at home with Princess Bride with the tone and sometimes the humor, but there was so much to love.
The growth the characters went through in three books made the story an absolute delight to see to the end. The ending was the best part, but falls short a star because you never seemed to really get answers (or maybe I missed them) on a few characters and their purpose.
The villain is an absolute delight and purely why I enjoyed this series so much. I hope Miss Fergus writes us another fantasy book or books in the future with a villain as enjoyable as this one.
October 19, 2025
I loved this book. Hands down the best of the series. Seeing Persephone and Azriel's perfect ending was amazing. I don't want to give any spoilers, so this review is going to be very short, but I will say that I was incredibly happy with the ending. The plot, pacing, characters, and, of course, romance were awesome, and I loved every page of it. Having a completely evil villain is not something that I see a lot nowadays, but it was so refreshing to read. The side characters were so good in this book, especially Rachel and Zdeno.
This series was so much fun, and while it may not be the best-written or most complex plot I have ever read, it was awesome, and I totally recommend it to everyone. If you loved The Princess Bride, this series is for you!
This series was so much fun, and while it may not be the best-written or most complex plot I have ever read, it was awesome, and I totally recommend it to everyone. If you loved The Princess Bride, this series is for you!
August 1, 2014
If you want to get a good nights sleep don't read this book. It will keep you up half the night reading it and once you're done it, you will be so filled with the story that sleep is not an option. A FANTASTIC end to the trilogy! I honestly couldn't think of a better ending. My feelings for these characters are definitely real, and please excuse my crying over the perfection of this book(especially the ending!). A book hangover is now in session so while I heal, GO! Bye the book, read it, and know that you have read one of the best ends to a trilogy ever.
June 30, 2016
Every time I finish a book I have this whole long review planned out in my head, then I never actually get around to typing it.
What do ya know.... It's happened again.
Ill write one soon... but in summary.... Azriel, Persephone, ending, Beautiful.
I cannot stress enough how beautiful the epilogue is. It is a perfect way to end the book and it is happy, sweet, and sad all at the same time, and fully beautiful.
What do ya know.... It's happened again.
Ill write one soon... but in summary.... Azriel, Persephone, ending, Beautiful.
I cannot stress enough how beautiful the epilogue is. It is a perfect way to end the book and it is happy, sweet, and sad all at the same time, and fully beautiful.
June 25, 2014
A tense, nail-biting conclusion to the fantasy-romance trilogy.
November 13, 2025
Destiny by M.L. Fergus
My Thoughts 💭
This is book 3 in the trilogy, and you’re thrown in headfirst with nonstop action and a fast moving plot. It genuinely makes this one hard to put down. I liked having multiple points of view because with the brink of war on the horizon, it was interesting seeing the different sides and listening to how each group thought they had the upper hand. You get to see the little victories, the losses, and all the shifting tension.
Persephone is our FMC who is on a mission to claim her throne. I appreciated that she’s someone who slows down to think before acting. She assesses her surroundings, weighs her options, and makes smart decisions. She has survived so much and has formed trusting friendships along the way with people who guide her and offer advice. Her love interest Azriel is loving, kind, and protective. I really enjoyed his dedication and devotion to Persephone.
Mordesius takes cruel and heartless to another level, and Lord Bartok is right behind him. The author did a great job writing them in a way that shows how far someone will go when they’re blinded by their hunger for power and what horrors they’re willing to commit to get it.
‼️ There are mature themes throughout the story that support the plot well, but I do recommend checking trigger warnings before starting.
Would I recommend this book?
Yes, absolutely. The writing, the world building, and the characters were all intriguing, and I truly enjoyed every part of this book. ✅
The Fractured Kingdom Trilogy in order:
1. Prophecy
2. Odyssey
3. Destiny
Thank you to M. L. Fergus, LibraryThing’s Early Reviewers program, Tundra Books and Penguin Random House Canada for providing me with a copy of Destiny to review. Although I received this copy for review, all thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
My Thoughts 💭
This is book 3 in the trilogy, and you’re thrown in headfirst with nonstop action and a fast moving plot. It genuinely makes this one hard to put down. I liked having multiple points of view because with the brink of war on the horizon, it was interesting seeing the different sides and listening to how each group thought they had the upper hand. You get to see the little victories, the losses, and all the shifting tension.
Persephone is our FMC who is on a mission to claim her throne. I appreciated that she’s someone who slows down to think before acting. She assesses her surroundings, weighs her options, and makes smart decisions. She has survived so much and has formed trusting friendships along the way with people who guide her and offer advice. Her love interest Azriel is loving, kind, and protective. I really enjoyed his dedication and devotion to Persephone.
Mordesius takes cruel and heartless to another level, and Lord Bartok is right behind him. The author did a great job writing them in a way that shows how far someone will go when they’re blinded by their hunger for power and what horrors they’re willing to commit to get it.
‼️ There are mature themes throughout the story that support the plot well, but I do recommend checking trigger warnings before starting.
Would I recommend this book?
Yes, absolutely. The writing, the world building, and the characters were all intriguing, and I truly enjoyed every part of this book. ✅
The Fractured Kingdom Trilogy in order:
1. Prophecy
2. Odyssey
3. Destiny
Thank you to M. L. Fergus, LibraryThing’s Early Reviewers program, Tundra Books and Penguin Random House Canada for providing me with a copy of Destiny to review. Although I received this copy for review, all thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
October 23, 2014
Tomorrow's Kingdom concludes Fergus' Gypsy King trilogy, and it once again picks up from where book two left off, so fair warning, there are spoilers for the previous books ahead. If you want to avoid them, see my reviews for book one and book two.
In Tomorrow's Kingdom Persephone has been separated from her husband, Azriel, after she goes to confront Mordecai on her own. Persephone now has to escape the evil and lecherous Mordecai's clutches, and it's going to take some daring and ingenuity. And when she finally does gain her freedom, Persephone has an even more difficult task ahead of her: taking back her thrown. There's no simple married life ahead for Persephone and Azriel, they've got an army to raise and kingdom to save, not to mention wading through the political machinations of the old council. An added complication for this young queen is the fact that she's pregnant. Now, I don't think I've ever encountered a YA novel where the heroine is pregnant and the novel's not an "issue book". Personally, I'm not sure how I feel about it, and I have to admit that I found it surprising. What I do appreciate is Persephone's reaction to having a child, she's not exactly comfortable about it:
I really like the fact that Persephone is conflicted, it added a much-needed element of realism. Persephone is a teenager, one that's had to grow up fast, to be sure, but a teenager none-the-less. And a teenager is likely to be less excited about the prospect of motherhood, especially when their in the circumstances that Persephone is in. I also liked that Persephone's anxiety of motherhood is also related to her experiences as a slave. She's always aspired to freedom, and having a child is not going to allow for that. But, Persephone has changed a lot since book one and she learns to put others before herself, after all, becoming queen is not going to provide her with the type of freedom that she's always craved. Persephone has to make some sacrifices in order to fulfill the prophecy of bringing forth the gypsy queen. While I can't help but wish Persephone got the true freedom she's always wanted, I loved this type of character development.
So why haven't a rated this one higher? Alas, I really struggled to get through Tomorrow's Kingdom. I was really disappointed with the continued use of the villain's point of view. Readers are treated to Mordecai and the devious Lord Bartok's thought process and I really felt that they slowed the plot considerably. It was really easy for me to set my book down when I got to these chapters, and unfortunately, it wasn't as easy to pick the book back up.
Further, I also felt that the villains were caricatures rather than fully fleshed out villains. They're plans were diabolical and over the top and I thought they stretched the imagination too far. For example, Mordecai gets it into his head that he's going to lead the army, but I'm not sure I buy the fact that he wields so much power. The council is always lamenting the fact that he's low born, I'm just not sure that I believe he would ever gain the type of power he has, at least without it be unchecked. Why would the council allow for this? Why didn't they remove him from power? Why do the New Men follow him? For me, the lack of explanation for Mordecai's rise to power was a plot hole and one that became more obvious in book three.
I was also off-put by the continued mentioning of women being abused. The villains continually mentioned how they wanted to use Persephone for their own bids to the throne, and would use force as necessary. I thought this discussion of women being sexually assaulted was heavy handed. While I don't doubt that this could happen, it was over emphasized and troubling. There was something a little disturbing about these themes being juxtaposed with Persephone's relationship with her husband.
When the villains weren't talking about how they would use Persephone, Persephone and Azriel were constantly jumping into bed. Now, I've been a fan of the romance in this series from the start, but it did not live up to expectations in book three. Azriel seemed like window dressing in Tomorrow's Kingdom. He was around and Persephone was enjoying her time with him, but that's it. Azriel did heroic stuff, but where were the great conversation between these two that made book one so awesome? There was no real development in their relationship, and it was so disappointing from a romance perspective.
Ultimately, I felt a little disappointed with Tomorrow's Kingdom. The first book in this series started off so strong. It was funny and action packed; I couldn't put it down. I really wanted to do same for the last book in the trilogy, but I felt that this book lost it's steam. While I recognize the fact that the third book can't be the same as the first, there has to be momentum, I really would have liked to have seen more of what I loved about book one. Namely, the humour that contrasted so sharply with the despair and harsh realities of this world. I'm happy to have finished the trilogy and know that the conflict has been resolved, I just wasn't as excited with the book as I expected to be.
Review originally published with similar reads at The Book Adventures.
In Tomorrow's Kingdom Persephone has been separated from her husband, Azriel, after she goes to confront Mordecai on her own. Persephone now has to escape the evil and lecherous Mordecai's clutches, and it's going to take some daring and ingenuity. And when she finally does gain her freedom, Persephone has an even more difficult task ahead of her: taking back her thrown. There's no simple married life ahead for Persephone and Azriel, they've got an army to raise and kingdom to save, not to mention wading through the political machinations of the old council. An added complication for this young queen is the fact that she's pregnant. Now, I don't think I've ever encountered a YA novel where the heroine is pregnant and the novel's not an "issue book". Personally, I'm not sure how I feel about it, and I have to admit that I found it surprising. What I do appreciate is Persephone's reaction to having a child, she's not exactly comfortable about it:
The night Cairn had first shown Persephone the sketch of the girl who was supposedly going to help set the prophesied Gypsy King upon his throne - the girl who so resembled her and Rachel - Persephone has seen her dream of freedom without entanglements put at considerable risk. But that risk was nothing compared to the risk posed by a baby. For what was a baby but a lifelong entanglement - a crying, hungry set of fetters? (p. 21)
I really like the fact that Persephone is conflicted, it added a much-needed element of realism. Persephone is a teenager, one that's had to grow up fast, to be sure, but a teenager none-the-less. And a teenager is likely to be less excited about the prospect of motherhood, especially when their in the circumstances that Persephone is in. I also liked that Persephone's anxiety of motherhood is also related to her experiences as a slave. She's always aspired to freedom, and having a child is not going to allow for that. But, Persephone has changed a lot since book one and she learns to put others before herself, after all, becoming queen is not going to provide her with the type of freedom that she's always craved. Persephone has to make some sacrifices in order to fulfill the prophecy of bringing forth the gypsy queen. While I can't help but wish Persephone got the true freedom she's always wanted, I loved this type of character development.
So why haven't a rated this one higher? Alas, I really struggled to get through Tomorrow's Kingdom. I was really disappointed with the continued use of the villain's point of view. Readers are treated to Mordecai and the devious Lord Bartok's thought process and I really felt that they slowed the plot considerably. It was really easy for me to set my book down when I got to these chapters, and unfortunately, it wasn't as easy to pick the book back up.
Further, I also felt that the villains were caricatures rather than fully fleshed out villains. They're plans were diabolical and over the top and I thought they stretched the imagination too far. For example, Mordecai gets it into his head that he's going to lead the army, but I'm not sure I buy the fact that he wields so much power. The council is always lamenting the fact that he's low born, I'm just not sure that I believe he would ever gain the type of power he has, at least without it be unchecked. Why would the council allow for this? Why didn't they remove him from power? Why do the New Men follow him? For me, the lack of explanation for Mordecai's rise to power was a plot hole and one that became more obvious in book three.
I was also off-put by the continued mentioning of women being abused. The villains continually mentioned how they wanted to use Persephone for their own bids to the throne, and would use force as necessary. I thought this discussion of women being sexually assaulted was heavy handed. While I don't doubt that this could happen, it was over emphasized and troubling. There was something a little disturbing about these themes being juxtaposed with Persephone's relationship with her husband.
When the villains weren't talking about how they would use Persephone, Persephone and Azriel were constantly jumping into bed. Now, I've been a fan of the romance in this series from the start, but it did not live up to expectations in book three. Azriel seemed like window dressing in Tomorrow's Kingdom. He was around and Persephone was enjoying her time with him, but that's it. Azriel did heroic stuff, but where were the great conversation between these two that made book one so awesome? There was no real development in their relationship, and it was so disappointing from a romance perspective.
Ultimately, I felt a little disappointed with Tomorrow's Kingdom. The first book in this series started off so strong. It was funny and action packed; I couldn't put it down. I really wanted to do same for the last book in the trilogy, but I felt that this book lost it's steam. While I recognize the fact that the third book can't be the same as the first, there has to be momentum, I really would have liked to have seen more of what I loved about book one. Namely, the humour that contrasted so sharply with the despair and harsh realities of this world. I'm happy to have finished the trilogy and know that the conflict has been resolved, I just wasn't as excited with the book as I expected to be.
Review originally published with similar reads at The Book Adventures.
May 5, 2017
so much love for this series.
December 27, 2025
I received a copy of this book for free through Library Thing.
Amazing. The story though all three books had me hooked from the beginning. Azriel is a little perfect, but I forgive him. I enjoyed every twist and turn in this series. The only character I'm not sure about is the general. He didn't make a lot of sense to me, but I'm okay with that.
Will read again!
Amazing. The story though all three books had me hooked from the beginning. Azriel is a little perfect, but I forgive him. I enjoyed every twist and turn in this series. The only character I'm not sure about is the general. He didn't make a lot of sense to me, but I'm okay with that.
Will read again!
January 24, 2016
To be fair, I don't tend to read a lot of Young Adult fiction.
This kind of book is exactly why.
Though I'm often not a fan or simply not drawn to YA fiction, I pick up the occasional book as light or easy reading in between others. And to give to due credit to Maureen Fergus, I read through the preceding two Gypsy King novels in single sittings; the plot was cheesy and the romance predictable, yes, but still they were enjoyable. But after reading Tomorrow's Kingdom after a somewhat-lengthy pause in between, I cannot help but wonder if the others were as dreadful as this, and I had only been temporarily blind to it.
Tomorrow's Kingdom had potential, but it was utterly dashed. The writing is simple and even mediocre, but this is to be expected from some YA fiction. Still, it did not help. The main villain, who by know readers of Fergus' series will know as the Regent Mordecai, is painted in an even weaker, flat light than I remember. Entirely Disney-esque in his villainy, he is the kind of antagonist that spells out his plans in great detail and (when chapters are told from his POV) repeats the same malicious thoughts in half-new sentences. He is boring, to put it plainly - as is Persephone. Beloved by the kingdom's people for seemingly no reason at all, good at everything she does, merciful, beautiful, somehow able to create complex battle plans with no prior experience in warfare, and able to escape any kind of nefarious scenario presented to her, she is quite plainly, a Mary Sue. A flat, boring, perfect character. The character flaws that made her likable in previous books - namely, her anger, which is trait present throughout the previous Gypsy King books - is notably absent in Tomorrow's Kingdom.
And most importantly, Fergus leans entirely on deus ex machina moments to help her protagonists along. Now, a coincidentally helpful (or comedic) moment coming in the form of a well-timed wave, gust of wind, or absent-minded guard is excusable, but the amount of times Persephone, Azriel & Co. prevail due to the aforementioned plot devices is hideous. They are plentiful enough to make me believe Fergus simply gave up on creating plausible ideas for plotlines, escape or rescue, instead deciding to simply throw as many horrible things at her characters as possible only to magically lift them out of it because she could not be bothered to think harder.
I did finish the book, if that means anything to reviewers. But partly, I pushed on because I wanted to see just how ridiculous things could get.
I have never left a review on GoodReads before because I couldn't be bothered. That is how much this book has effected me. Chuck Palahniuk said to write books not that people would like, but books that would be remembered; in that way, Tomorrow's Kingdom is a success. I don't see forgetting how ludicrous this book was anytime in the near future.
This kind of book is exactly why.
Though I'm often not a fan or simply not drawn to YA fiction, I pick up the occasional book as light or easy reading in between others. And to give to due credit to Maureen Fergus, I read through the preceding two Gypsy King novels in single sittings; the plot was cheesy and the romance predictable, yes, but still they were enjoyable. But after reading Tomorrow's Kingdom after a somewhat-lengthy pause in between, I cannot help but wonder if the others were as dreadful as this, and I had only been temporarily blind to it.
Tomorrow's Kingdom had potential, but it was utterly dashed. The writing is simple and even mediocre, but this is to be expected from some YA fiction. Still, it did not help. The main villain, who by know readers of Fergus' series will know as the Regent Mordecai, is painted in an even weaker, flat light than I remember. Entirely Disney-esque in his villainy, he is the kind of antagonist that spells out his plans in great detail and (when chapters are told from his POV) repeats the same malicious thoughts in half-new sentences. He is boring, to put it plainly - as is Persephone. Beloved by the kingdom's people for seemingly no reason at all, good at everything she does, merciful, beautiful, somehow able to create complex battle plans with no prior experience in warfare, and able to escape any kind of nefarious scenario presented to her, she is quite plainly, a Mary Sue. A flat, boring, perfect character. The character flaws that made her likable in previous books - namely, her anger, which is trait present throughout the previous Gypsy King books - is notably absent in Tomorrow's Kingdom.
And most importantly, Fergus leans entirely on deus ex machina moments to help her protagonists along. Now, a coincidentally helpful (or comedic) moment coming in the form of a well-timed wave, gust of wind, or absent-minded guard is excusable, but the amount of times Persephone, Azriel & Co. prevail due to the aforementioned plot devices is hideous. They are plentiful enough to make me believe Fergus simply gave up on creating plausible ideas for plotlines, escape or rescue, instead deciding to simply throw as many horrible things at her characters as possible only to magically lift them out of it because she could not be bothered to think harder.
I did finish the book, if that means anything to reviewers. But partly, I pushed on because I wanted to see just how ridiculous things could get.
I have never left a review on GoodReads before because I couldn't be bothered. That is how much this book has effected me. Chuck Palahniuk said to write books not that people would like, but books that would be remembered; in that way, Tomorrow's Kingdom is a success. I don't see forgetting how ludicrous this book was anytime in the near future.
December 28, 2014
Absolutely amazing book. At first I wasn't too sure about reading this book because I didn't thinks that I was going to like it, but boy was I ever wrong! Once I started reading it I couldn't put it down. The amount of sabotage and backstabbing while trying to fulfill ones own greed is intriguing. Not to mention the rightful heir of the throne is battling to save herself and the ones she cares for all while pregnant and grieving. Highly recommend this book to anyone....love this book!!!!
September 23, 2014
Loved this trilogy for the fun light hearted reading that it was. Would have loved to have seen the animals included more like in the first book though. I missed their humour as the series progressed.
November 30, 2016
So much happened and it was wonderful
September 23, 2025
Destiny by M. L. Fergus
Book review: 3.75/5 ⭐️
Genre: YA fantasy
Themes: prophecy, legend, quest, battle
📖 Read if you like: The Princess Bride, Powerless
Ripped apart and each in perilous situations, book 3 of this trilogy picks up right at the end of the second instalment. Persephone must free herself from ruthless captors and Azriel, Rachel and Zdeno must escape the city crawling with New Men. As peril is mounting on several fronts, each member of this party must own to their promises and responsibilities as they make their way back to each other and attempt to safeguard the people by defeating the regent Mordesius.
The baddies in this story are almost comically villainous. They are a sort of caricature with exaggeratedly horrible personalities and behaviour. Misogyny and cruelty taken to the max where their loathsome nature was really highlighted, while other parts of their beings were over simplified. On the other hand, Persephone was given a naive virtuosity that no real ruler would ever have the luxury of, though she at least had some personal growth throughout the series. Wars mean death and some people deserve to have their punishment meted out. On the whole, I didn’t hate it, as it created an over the top good versus evil fantasy plot. There was a general feeling that reminded me a bit of The Princess Bride, with an epic quest, a love story with some road blocks and funny banter and band of supporting characters that are easy to love.
A part of the ending made me mad. I like that the fates sent an unrelenting wave of cruel happenings, but I don’t like when there are leaps made to propel a plot. I couldn’t really fathom how a kidnapping would be possible, nor why the queen would venture out on her own. The villains always seemed to have an upper hand that superseded logic and General Murdoch’s general sense of loyalty needed to be better explored.
So some parts worked for me, while others didn’t. I still found this entire series entertaining and easy to read, with book 1 being the standout. I liked that there was a lot of action and a full circle for all story lines so that everything was neatly tied up with a bow. This is a very satisfying feeling for a trilogy and the happily ever after was rather sweet. Excited to see what this author writes next!
Thank you to Netgalley and Tundra Books for letting me finish this series with an eARC.
Book review: 3.75/5 ⭐️
Genre: YA fantasy
Themes: prophecy, legend, quest, battle
📖 Read if you like: The Princess Bride, Powerless
Ripped apart and each in perilous situations, book 3 of this trilogy picks up right at the end of the second instalment. Persephone must free herself from ruthless captors and Azriel, Rachel and Zdeno must escape the city crawling with New Men. As peril is mounting on several fronts, each member of this party must own to their promises and responsibilities as they make their way back to each other and attempt to safeguard the people by defeating the regent Mordesius.
The baddies in this story are almost comically villainous. They are a sort of caricature with exaggeratedly horrible personalities and behaviour. Misogyny and cruelty taken to the max where their loathsome nature was really highlighted, while other parts of their beings were over simplified. On the other hand, Persephone was given a naive virtuosity that no real ruler would ever have the luxury of, though she at least had some personal growth throughout the series. Wars mean death and some people deserve to have their punishment meted out. On the whole, I didn’t hate it, as it created an over the top good versus evil fantasy plot. There was a general feeling that reminded me a bit of The Princess Bride, with an epic quest, a love story with some road blocks and funny banter and band of supporting characters that are easy to love.
A part of the ending made me mad. I like that the fates sent an unrelenting wave of cruel happenings, but I don’t like when there are leaps made to propel a plot. I couldn’t really fathom how a kidnapping would be possible, nor why the queen would venture out on her own. The villains always seemed to have an upper hand that superseded logic and General Murdoch’s general sense of loyalty needed to be better explored.
So some parts worked for me, while others didn’t. I still found this entire series entertaining and easy to read, with book 1 being the standout. I liked that there was a lot of action and a full circle for all story lines so that everything was neatly tied up with a bow. This is a very satisfying feeling for a trilogy and the happily ever after was rather sweet. Excited to see what this author writes next!
Thank you to Netgalley and Tundra Books for letting me finish this series with an eARC.
October 28, 2025
This is a YA novel yet the violence is somewhat graphic (not least the villain's sadistic fantasies, occasionally made real). Thankfully there are no overlong or overwrought descriptions of sex. Bear in mind that this YA trilogy was first published as: 'Gypsy King', 'A Fool's Errand' and 'Tomorrow's Kingdom' before being repackaged as the Fractured Kingdom trio (Prophecy, Odyssey and Destiny). Along the way the Gypsy tribe became the Methusians and the evil Regent's name morphed from Mordecai to Mordesius.
The plot involves a dying prince, an evil regent and a lost princess from the ruling clan, along with a handsome and charming rogue from a lesser clan at risk of ethnic cleansing. Our heroes are Persephone (a former slave) and Azriel (a Methusian thief) who must defeat the villainous and crippled Regent Mordesius to fulfil an ancient prophecy. In the first novel (Prophecy), Azriel, described as a 'thief', meets the enslaved Persephone and buys her freedom. They journey to the capital where Prince Finnian, the teenage heir to the throne, is so sickly that the kingdom is ruled by a regent and council of lords. As Finn prepares to turn 18 and be crowned King, the Regent is plotting how to retain power and usurp the kingdom for himself. Persephone's beauty matches the description in an ancient prophecy which foretells that the child of a union between a woman like her and a Methusian man will one day become King and unite the nation in peace. In the second part (Odyssey) Persephone and Azriel must journey around the kingdom to find the mythical Pool of Genezing, which is believed to heal and rejuvenate. Mordesius hopes to heal his fire-crippled body. Time runs out for our heroes but Persephone can produce an 'undying twig and leaf' to try to prove to Mordesius the fabled pool does exist. Finally in Destiny, our heroes - first forced apart by a kidnapping - break free and reunite to foment an uprising to unseat Mordesius.
Without giving away spoilers, it seems reasonable to state that the plot has some well-worn tropes, the characters are caricatures and stereotypes and the writing is flawed. Nonetheless the trilogy starts as an entertaining romantasy, develops into a quest amid political and ethnic turmoil, then resolves with violence.
The plot involves a dying prince, an evil regent and a lost princess from the ruling clan, along with a handsome and charming rogue from a lesser clan at risk of ethnic cleansing. Our heroes are Persephone (a former slave) and Azriel (a Methusian thief) who must defeat the villainous and crippled Regent Mordesius to fulfil an ancient prophecy. In the first novel (Prophecy), Azriel, described as a 'thief', meets the enslaved Persephone and buys her freedom. They journey to the capital where Prince Finnian, the teenage heir to the throne, is so sickly that the kingdom is ruled by a regent and council of lords. As Finn prepares to turn 18 and be crowned King, the Regent is plotting how to retain power and usurp the kingdom for himself. Persephone's beauty matches the description in an ancient prophecy which foretells that the child of a union between a woman like her and a Methusian man will one day become King and unite the nation in peace. In the second part (Odyssey) Persephone and Azriel must journey around the kingdom to find the mythical Pool of Genezing, which is believed to heal and rejuvenate. Mordesius hopes to heal his fire-crippled body. Time runs out for our heroes but Persephone can produce an 'undying twig and leaf' to try to prove to Mordesius the fabled pool does exist. Finally in Destiny, our heroes - first forced apart by a kidnapping - break free and reunite to foment an uprising to unseat Mordesius.
Without giving away spoilers, it seems reasonable to state that the plot has some well-worn tropes, the characters are caricatures and stereotypes and the writing is flawed. Nonetheless the trilogy starts as an entertaining romantasy, develops into a quest amid political and ethnic turmoil, then resolves with violence.
March 24, 2025
"'I met a girl, wed a princess and now find myself married to a queen. I would be a poor husband, indeed, if I did not stand her most loyal subject.'"
Destiny is the third and final installation in the Fractured Kingdom trilogy, and although I have a few mixed feelings about the ending, I think most readers will be satisfied. I received all three books as Netgalley ARCs, so I'm incredibly lucky to have been able to read these books relatively close together in time. I know they were published before under a different name/publisher, so I'd be interested to see what all has changed. That being said, I enjoyed this series and I'm glad I got a chance to read it.
This book is more plot-focused than the first two, which I think works both for and against it. I would say that at least 40% of the total page time is spent in the POVs of the various antagonists, which - while helpful in some cases - severely drags the pacing in others. I also thought the first 70% of the book was significantly slower than the ending, but because the ending was so quickly paced, I didn't mind it too much. Also, some plot points felt more convenient than they had been in past books, but again, I didn't mind it too much. Overall, I did enjoy the storyline and had fun reading this book, I just found it to be a bit more heavy-handed on the plot than in previous books, perhaps even too much so.
I also found the characters to be a bit flatter in this one. Most of their development has apparently occurred in earlier books because none of them really changed in this one. While I did appreciate Persephone's mixed feelings on certain developments and enjoyed seeing her kindness juxtaposed against Mordesius's cruelty, she just felt a bit generic compared to book one. Azriel felt the same way; his snark has been replaced with constant simping, which isn't bad...it's just obnoxious at times. I didn't mind Rachel and Zdeno, but they weren't really relevant. Mordesius is just as evil as ever. I still liked the characters, I just wish they were a bit more dynamic.
Destiny is the nail-biting conclusion to the Fractured Kingdom trilogy, perfect for fans of The Princess Bride.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the free e-ARC!
3.75/5
Destiny is the third and final installation in the Fractured Kingdom trilogy, and although I have a few mixed feelings about the ending, I think most readers will be satisfied. I received all three books as Netgalley ARCs, so I'm incredibly lucky to have been able to read these books relatively close together in time. I know they were published before under a different name/publisher, so I'd be interested to see what all has changed. That being said, I enjoyed this series and I'm glad I got a chance to read it.
This book is more plot-focused than the first two, which I think works both for and against it. I would say that at least 40% of the total page time is spent in the POVs of the various antagonists, which - while helpful in some cases - severely drags the pacing in others. I also thought the first 70% of the book was significantly slower than the ending, but because the ending was so quickly paced, I didn't mind it too much. Also, some plot points felt more convenient than they had been in past books, but again, I didn't mind it too much. Overall, I did enjoy the storyline and had fun reading this book, I just found it to be a bit more heavy-handed on the plot than in previous books, perhaps even too much so.
I also found the characters to be a bit flatter in this one. Most of their development has apparently occurred in earlier books because none of them really changed in this one. While I did appreciate Persephone's mixed feelings on certain developments and enjoyed seeing her kindness juxtaposed against Mordesius's cruelty, she just felt a bit generic compared to book one. Azriel felt the same way; his snark has been replaced with constant simping, which isn't bad...it's just obnoxious at times. I didn't mind Rachel and Zdeno, but they weren't really relevant. Mordesius is just as evil as ever. I still liked the characters, I just wish they were a bit more dynamic.
Destiny is the nail-biting conclusion to the Fractured Kingdom trilogy, perfect for fans of The Princess Bride.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the free e-ARC!
3.75/5
June 15, 2025
5⭐️
The story of a chicken thief and a slave with her dog, hawk, and horse and a tale of the Pool of Genezing that has magical healing powers that has not been found in ages.
As this is the third book in a trilogy many plot points further develop and resolve, the development in each singular character is incredible. The relationships between Azriel and Persephone and their found family is unexpected but diverse. They all have these bonds that are full of pride and confidence in one another’s skills and strengths that have developed throughout all three books. As the reader you can feel the unspoken trust and loyalty that all the characters have for each other. M.L. Fergus has created one of my favorite collections of characters within a story from our main character to Persephone to the villain the Regent Mordesius to each of the animals that were also included in this story. The animals were one of my favorite aspects of the story as they are so loyal to Persephone and always appear when they are needed to protect her, they also provided comedic relief throughout all three books. In this book, I appreciated that all of the developing plot points from each book has been resolved. Destiny did in fact make me cry in the ending, seeing these characters achieve their happy ending was so amazing and was well deserved as you watch what they endured in all three books.
Overall, this medieval themed tale for the search for the Pool of Genezing and the prophesy of an old Methusian Seer to find the Methusian King is full of adventure, yearning, whiplash, and escapism. I am so grateful to Tundra books for giving me early access to this story and to M.L. Fergus for having the amazing mind to provide us readers this tale.
The story of a chicken thief and a slave with her dog, hawk, and horse and a tale of the Pool of Genezing that has magical healing powers that has not been found in ages.
As this is the third book in a trilogy many plot points further develop and resolve, the development in each singular character is incredible. The relationships between Azriel and Persephone and their found family is unexpected but diverse. They all have these bonds that are full of pride and confidence in one another’s skills and strengths that have developed throughout all three books. As the reader you can feel the unspoken trust and loyalty that all the characters have for each other. M.L. Fergus has created one of my favorite collections of characters within a story from our main character to Persephone to the villain the Regent Mordesius to each of the animals that were also included in this story. The animals were one of my favorite aspects of the story as they are so loyal to Persephone and always appear when they are needed to protect her, they also provided comedic relief throughout all three books. In this book, I appreciated that all of the developing plot points from each book has been resolved. Destiny did in fact make me cry in the ending, seeing these characters achieve their happy ending was so amazing and was well deserved as you watch what they endured in all three books.
Overall, this medieval themed tale for the search for the Pool of Genezing and the prophesy of an old Methusian Seer to find the Methusian King is full of adventure, yearning, whiplash, and escapism. I am so grateful to Tundra books for giving me early access to this story and to M.L. Fergus for having the amazing mind to provide us readers this tale.
March 17, 2025
I want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart to the author, the publisher and Netgalley for allowing me the privilege of being able to read this book and reach the conclusion of this series!
I honestly don't know what to say. This book blew me away! Every feeling I felt it. This is the perfect conclusion to a series, the perfect ending for these beloved characters! I was on the edge of my seat throughout the whole book, that I binged it in a few hours. I was so so nervous for the end of this book. I was recently burned by the ending of another series I've read recently that between that series and the blurb for this book I was torned between the prospect of my heart being ripped to shreds and the hope that maybe it wouldn't. I am so grateful that well I was nerve-wracked almost to the last page, to have come across that ending it was everything I needed and more!
I have zero complaints about this book, this ending to a wonderful series! In the beginning with Prophecy I really wasn't so sure how I would feel about this series until halfway through. Odyssey sucked me in and delivered everything and more, ending on a cliffhanger I desperately needed a conclusion for. Than Destiny delivered and so much more. You stole my heart for one of my friends, but that conclusion more than made up for it. There were no loose ends, no really grasping for straws to haft to agree to disagree with anything. It was beautiful, breathtaking, heart wrenching and utter perfection!
Thank you so much from the bottom of my heart for introducing me to this world, and giving me the perfect journey and ending in a world I fell in love with! I can't wait to bring the last two home!
I honestly don't know what to say. This book blew me away! Every feeling I felt it. This is the perfect conclusion to a series, the perfect ending for these beloved characters! I was on the edge of my seat throughout the whole book, that I binged it in a few hours. I was so so nervous for the end of this book. I was recently burned by the ending of another series I've read recently that between that series and the blurb for this book I was torned between the prospect of my heart being ripped to shreds and the hope that maybe it wouldn't. I am so grateful that well I was nerve-wracked almost to the last page, to have come across that ending it was everything I needed and more!
I have zero complaints about this book, this ending to a wonderful series! In the beginning with Prophecy I really wasn't so sure how I would feel about this series until halfway through. Odyssey sucked me in and delivered everything and more, ending on a cliffhanger I desperately needed a conclusion for. Than Destiny delivered and so much more. You stole my heart for one of my friends, but that conclusion more than made up for it. There were no loose ends, no really grasping for straws to haft to agree to disagree with anything. It was beautiful, breathtaking, heart wrenching and utter perfection!
Thank you so much from the bottom of my heart for introducing me to this world, and giving me the perfect journey and ending in a world I fell in love with! I can't wait to bring the last two home!
December 28, 2025
What a great conclusion to the series! Unfortunately, it was not without some heart break, but it would not have been the engaging - and harrowing - story that it is without the emotional turmoil.
This instalment expands the narrative with even more points of view than the previous books, allowing reader to see the story unfold on many levels and better understand the forces driving the overall plot. There is evil on many fronts, with some many characters out for themselves.
Honestly, I can’t say much without spoiling the book, which is odd for me. As I write this, I find myself erasing sentences because they reveal too much. So, in summary, the series will be enjoyable for people that enjoy found family, imperfect and unexpected heroes, good banter, humour, slow-burn romance, a villain (or villains) to loathe, betrayal, good plot twists, and lots of adventure. The book offers a satisfying ending, but there may be tears.
Many thanks to Tundra Books and NetGalley for an early digital copy of the book. The opinions expressed are given freely and are honest and my own.
This instalment expands the narrative with even more points of view than the previous books, allowing reader to see the story unfold on many levels and better understand the forces driving the overall plot. There is evil on many fronts, with some many characters out for themselves.
Honestly, I can’t say much without spoiling the book, which is odd for me. As I write this, I find myself erasing sentences because they reveal too much. So, in summary, the series will be enjoyable for people that enjoy found family, imperfect and unexpected heroes, good banter, humour, slow-burn romance, a villain (or villains) to loathe, betrayal, good plot twists, and lots of adventure. The book offers a satisfying ending, but there may be tears.
Many thanks to Tundra Books and NetGalley for an early digital copy of the book. The opinions expressed are given freely and are honest and my own.
September 10, 2025
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Destiny was a really satisfying conclusion to this trilogy. I was so fortunate as to have received ARCs of each of the books in this series and I have had such a fun time reading them. Although this book is not what I would usually pick up and it has a lot of different tropes that are not my favourite, this book was so unique that it worked. The characters were consistent over the three books and it was fun to have some side characters from the first two books return. It takes special talent to create so many characters who were all different. Despite how not all of the ends felt completely tied up and I may have cried, this book was a worthy conclusion to the series.
Destiny was a really satisfying conclusion to this trilogy. I was so fortunate as to have received ARCs of each of the books in this series and I have had such a fun time reading them. Although this book is not what I would usually pick up and it has a lot of different tropes that are not my favourite, this book was so unique that it worked. The characters were consistent over the three books and it was fun to have some side characters from the first two books return. It takes special talent to create so many characters who were all different. Despite how not all of the ends felt completely tied up and I may have cried, this book was a worthy conclusion to the series.
October 8, 2025
This book was amazing! I do have some feedback though, I felt like the ending of the book was just really rushed and that I didn't have enough time to understand what was happening. Other than that though, I really really enjoyed this book and I will definitely be re-reading it!
April 29, 2018
Amazing end to an amazing series. Strongly recommend
June 11, 2022
2.75 stars
October 7, 2025
i just loved all the men underestimating persephone and then getting absolutely WASTED
November 7, 2017
There are few series that have gripped me from the get-go enough to compel me to be first in line at the bookstore to buy the sequel(s) on release day. And fewer still are the number of books that have kept a hold on my heart long after they’ve found a resting place on my bookshelf. Maureen Fergus’ The Gypsy King trilogy fits squarely into both categories, and I strongly urge you to run very, very quickly to Chapters or Indigo and grab a copy of all 3 books if you don’t already have them!
Let me tell you about Tomorrow’s Kingdom, the finale of the series that gave me all the feels! A Fool’s Errand left off with such a jaw-dropping cliffhanger that I practically got papercuts from the speed with which I flipped through and devoured the pages of TK’s opening chapters. I literally—-yes, literally—-had to cover the pages on the right so that I would force myself to slow down and appreciate everything on the left. Otherwise, in my haste to find out what happens to Persephone when she goes against Azriel (again), I’d miss out on the fine nuances in Fergus’ writing that bring her story to life. What makes a story so good that you just have to share your new-found treasure with someone else? The content and the writing, exactly.
And peeps, let me tell you how Fergus scores not just the game-winning goal with TK, but the game-7-OT-Stanley-Cup-winning game-winning goal!
The Content
This book has:
1. Romance
Um, yeah. There were times when I wished I didn’t care about all the other characters so that I could skip the chapters without Azriel and Persephone. Their love story is just so charming and endearing … I want to read more and more and more of it.
2. Adventure
Forests, castles, glens, caves, rivers, waterfalls … all there!
3. Comedy
Azriel is my favourite, but all of Fergus’ characters have some great comedic nature that I laughed out loud so many times throughout this book. I LOLed alone, with friends, and among complete strangers in crowded rooms … and I laughed often!
4. Heartache
Every great love story has some heartache in it. I’ll let you discover this for yourself …
In short, TK has almost everything I’m looking for in a book. The only thing missing? Magic. But you know what? Fergus’ writing weaves everything together so flawlessly that there must’ve been some pixie dust sprinkled on these pages … which brings me to the other reason everyone should read TK …
The Writing
Fergus’ writing is:
1. Intelligent
Fergus writes for an intelligent audience, and that is something I appreciate very much. She splashes her writing with a mix of complex and inverted sentences; she loves inserting rhetorical questions; and she makes her characters spout witty, well-timed one-liners, all of which add flavour to an already great story line.
2. Funny
I have found a kindred spirit in any author whose wit and dry humour flow easily across the page, and Fergus has tons of well-placed comedic scenes and one-liners that really strike to the heart of the matter. I love reading everything she writes.
3. Powerful
Check these out:
You know the saying, “If you want to be a better writer, read”? Well, read Fergus. Read this trilogy. Read everything else she’s written. I can try to teach you how to write well jusqu’à perpète, but it’s so much more effective and entertaining if you read this trilogy. You’ll walk away from TK feeling exhilarated about the ride you were on, a little sad at having to say goodbye to some new friends, and a lot in awe at the great fortune of having just read a masterpiece by one of Canada’s greatest authors.
A complete version of this review originally appeared on www.squinklebooks.wordpress.com.
Let me tell you about Tomorrow’s Kingdom, the finale of the series that gave me all the feels! A Fool’s Errand left off with such a jaw-dropping cliffhanger that I practically got papercuts from the speed with which I flipped through and devoured the pages of TK’s opening chapters. I literally—-yes, literally—-had to cover the pages on the right so that I would force myself to slow down and appreciate everything on the left. Otherwise, in my haste to find out what happens to Persephone when she goes against Azriel (again), I’d miss out on the fine nuances in Fergus’ writing that bring her story to life. What makes a story so good that you just have to share your new-found treasure with someone else? The content and the writing, exactly.
And peeps, let me tell you how Fergus scores not just the game-winning goal with TK, but the game-7-OT-Stanley-Cup-winning game-winning goal!
The Content
This book has:
1. Romance
Um, yeah. There were times when I wished I didn’t care about all the other characters so that I could skip the chapters without Azriel and Persephone. Their love story is just so charming and endearing … I want to read more and more and more of it.
2. Adventure
Forests, castles, glens, caves, rivers, waterfalls … all there!
3. Comedy
Azriel is my favourite, but all of Fergus’ characters have some great comedic nature that I laughed out loud so many times throughout this book. I LOLed alone, with friends, and among complete strangers in crowded rooms … and I laughed often!
4. Heartache
Every great love story has some heartache in it. I’ll let you discover this for yourself …
In short, TK has almost everything I’m looking for in a book. The only thing missing? Magic. But you know what? Fergus’ writing weaves everything together so flawlessly that there must’ve been some pixie dust sprinkled on these pages … which brings me to the other reason everyone should read TK …
The Writing
Fergus’ writing is:
1. Intelligent
Fergus writes for an intelligent audience, and that is something I appreciate very much. She splashes her writing with a mix of complex and inverted sentences; she loves inserting rhetorical questions; and she makes her characters spout witty, well-timed one-liners, all of which add flavour to an already great story line.
2. Funny
I have found a kindred spirit in any author whose wit and dry humour flow easily across the page, and Fergus has tons of well-placed comedic scenes and one-liners that really strike to the heart of the matter. I love reading everything she writes.
3. Powerful
Check these out:
“[I]t was a truly lovely thing to be cherished by a man who had eyes for none but her and who acted as though she were more beautiful than the stars, more fragile than blown glass, and more precious than a bucketful of jewels.”
“Do this and though I cannot promise we will ever be friends, I can promise that I will honour you … now and forever.”
“It was as if, by mutual accord, they were avoiding speaking of the dangers tomorrow might hold that they might better enjoy the sweet, fleeting moments of today.”
You know the saying, “If you want to be a better writer, read”? Well, read Fergus. Read this trilogy. Read everything else she’s written. I can try to teach you how to write well jusqu’à perpète, but it’s so much more effective and entertaining if you read this trilogy. You’ll walk away from TK feeling exhilarated about the ride you were on, a little sad at having to say goodbye to some new friends, and a lot in awe at the great fortune of having just read a masterpiece by one of Canada’s greatest authors.
A complete version of this review originally appeared on www.squinklebooks.wordpress.com.
July 19, 2014
"Tomorrow's Kingdom" is the third book in the high-energy, fast-paced, exciting " Gypsy King Trilogy" which is set in the kingdom of Glyndoria after the death of its young king. As his heir Persephone`s bound by an oath to ascend Finn`s throne but must escape Mordecai's clutches and bind the tribes of Glyndoria together if she is to defeat his army of New Men. What she doesn't expect in the power struggle is to be faced with the deception and hostility of the highest nobleman in the land, Lord Bartok who wants the throne for himself and will step on anyone to get it including his son and daughter. Pregnant and deeply in love with her husband Persephone has to make some serious decisions which could cost the lives of her friends, Azriel and the lowborn people she's trying to protect. In this final book that spins together the threads of this captivating series the question of who the prophesied Gypsy King is finally answered.
Like all the previous books the plot is rich in adventure, suspense and intrigue, and filled with realistic, complex characters who fuel the passion and drama of the story. Persephone, the once ragged slave has been sworn to defeat Mordecai and free the country from his bloodthirsty cruelty. A fearless queen Persephone struggles to puts aside her anxiety for the health of her unborn child, and takes on royal responsibilities that will see the unification of the five tribes and the mustering of an army to trounce Mordecai`s troops; much to Azriel`s consternation. In this story she`s even more defiant, determined and feisty winning the faith, loyalty and love of the people of Glyndoria. Azriel, the gypsy thief and skilled warrior who`s hopelessly in love is reckless and brave, devoted to Persephone and his child. Torn between keeping his only family safe and supporting the Queen in her battle to bring the perpetrators of evil against her people to justice, he takes up arms and leads Persephone`s army into battle, facing death from those that would like to see the " gypsy cockroach" squashed.
Add to the heroes and heroines in this story Rachel, Persephone`s timid lookalike who longs to do something important with her life; Zdeno, the valiant birth-marked fighter who`s sworn to protect the princess; Aurelia, Lord Bartok`s snobby, self-centered daughter who`s as conniving and duplicitous as her father; Atticus Bartok, the cowardly wastrel willing to betray anyone to gain a lordship; Miter, the little Gorgishman who`s as shrewd as he is disrespectful, rude and unpleasant and Cairn, the fanatical, no-nonsense gypsy leader. Mixed in with the colour and spice of these characters are the antagonists; Mordecai, the evil, cold-blooded, merciless cripple who craves a throne and its Queen; Lord Bartok, the ruthless noble whose sly, self-serving plans backfire and General Murdock, the ruthless henchman whose loyalty to duty is all-consuming.
With an enthralling, well-developed plot and fascinating characters it is no wonder that Maureen Fergus has written a winning series that captures your imagination from the first page to the last. I rate it highly and will look for more books from one of my favorite authors.
Like all the previous books the plot is rich in adventure, suspense and intrigue, and filled with realistic, complex characters who fuel the passion and drama of the story. Persephone, the once ragged slave has been sworn to defeat Mordecai and free the country from his bloodthirsty cruelty. A fearless queen Persephone struggles to puts aside her anxiety for the health of her unborn child, and takes on royal responsibilities that will see the unification of the five tribes and the mustering of an army to trounce Mordecai`s troops; much to Azriel`s consternation. In this story she`s even more defiant, determined and feisty winning the faith, loyalty and love of the people of Glyndoria. Azriel, the gypsy thief and skilled warrior who`s hopelessly in love is reckless and brave, devoted to Persephone and his child. Torn between keeping his only family safe and supporting the Queen in her battle to bring the perpetrators of evil against her people to justice, he takes up arms and leads Persephone`s army into battle, facing death from those that would like to see the " gypsy cockroach" squashed.
Add to the heroes and heroines in this story Rachel, Persephone`s timid lookalike who longs to do something important with her life; Zdeno, the valiant birth-marked fighter who`s sworn to protect the princess; Aurelia, Lord Bartok`s snobby, self-centered daughter who`s as conniving and duplicitous as her father; Atticus Bartok, the cowardly wastrel willing to betray anyone to gain a lordship; Miter, the little Gorgishman who`s as shrewd as he is disrespectful, rude and unpleasant and Cairn, the fanatical, no-nonsense gypsy leader. Mixed in with the colour and spice of these characters are the antagonists; Mordecai, the evil, cold-blooded, merciless cripple who craves a throne and its Queen; Lord Bartok, the ruthless noble whose sly, self-serving plans backfire and General Murdock, the ruthless henchman whose loyalty to duty is all-consuming.
With an enthralling, well-developed plot and fascinating characters it is no wonder that Maureen Fergus has written a winning series that captures your imagination from the first page to the last. I rate it highly and will look for more books from one of my favorite authors.
March 30, 2017
First off, I thought that book 3 had a pretty satisfying ending to the trilogy, I’d rate it like 3.5 stars. Once again, it comes off as more of a fun read sort of book/not too heavy. The kind where you have the feeling throughout that everything is eventually going to be okay and the author isn’t out to rip your heart out and tear it to shreds. You know that type?
Anyways, the story continues with Persephone trying to fight for her right for the throne and garner support + get ready for a war in this book. Mordecai continues to be one hell of a disturbed person who is most definitely mentally unstable and needs some serious help. By book 3 you know that he’s just so insecure and jealous of practically every able-bodied person, is delusional, and doesn’t even have the decency to treat the one man completely loyal to him (Murdock) with an ounce of care. Whatever fleeting moments of pity you have for him are quickly erased by his repulsive behavior.
There were a few things that did bother me from this final book though- like whatever happened to the prophecy of gypsies eventually settling down next to the Healing Pool of Genezing? Or whatever happened to Lord Bartok- it’s kind of an implied situation I guess. I was disappointed with the lack of involvement from the Marinese (but I suppose that aligns with their disposition as a group).
What I did like from this book were the multiple twists I did not see coming near the end and Persephone’s growth from slave to Queen. I liked how all the male characters that seek to control and use women to their own ends end up having a not-so-great fate. (For example, Bartok, Mordecai, Atticus). Their mentality towards women as being basically “brood-mares” made me roll my eyes so many times in this trilogy I thought they were going to fall out of my sockets. I understand that it’s probably appropriate towards that sort of time period it is set in, and it successfully added to my dislike for those men (as the author probably intended). However, that didn’t stop me from cringing every time I read phrases such as “plant his seed in her belly.” Like YIKES. It’s so gross-sounding.
Overall, it was an enjoyable-enough read with a theme of gypsies that I don’t usually come across/I’m not familiar with, but I don’t think it’s a story I’ll go back to again and again. I’d recommend this trilogy for a light and fun read.
Anyways, the story continues with Persephone trying to fight for her right for the throne and garner support + get ready for a war in this book. Mordecai continues to be one hell of a disturbed person who is most definitely mentally unstable and needs some serious help. By book 3 you know that he’s just so insecure and jealous of practically every able-bodied person, is delusional, and doesn’t even have the decency to treat the one man completely loyal to him (Murdock) with an ounce of care. Whatever fleeting moments of pity you have for him are quickly erased by his repulsive behavior.
There were a few things that did bother me from this final book though- like whatever happened to the prophecy of gypsies eventually settling down next to the Healing Pool of Genezing? Or whatever happened to Lord Bartok- it’s kind of an implied situation I guess. I was disappointed with the lack of involvement from the Marinese (but I suppose that aligns with their disposition as a group).
What I did like from this book were the multiple twists I did not see coming near the end and Persephone’s growth from slave to Queen. I liked how all the male characters that seek to control and use women to their own ends end up having a not-so-great fate. (For example, Bartok, Mordecai, Atticus). Their mentality towards women as being basically “brood-mares” made me roll my eyes so many times in this trilogy I thought they were going to fall out of my sockets. I understand that it’s probably appropriate towards that sort of time period it is set in, and it successfully added to my dislike for those men (as the author probably intended). However, that didn’t stop me from cringing every time I read phrases such as “plant his seed in her belly.” Like YIKES. It’s so gross-sounding.
Overall, it was an enjoyable-enough read with a theme of gypsies that I don’t usually come across/I’m not familiar with, but I don’t think it’s a story I’ll go back to again and again. I’d recommend this trilogy for a light and fun read.
September 24, 2014
*Note that this review contains NO SPOILERS for ANY book in the series.
Maureen Fergus swept me away with the first book in her YA fantasy series, The Gypsy King. I loved the sequel, but I was a bit apprehensive waiting for Tomorrow's Kingdom to come out. The ending of a series is so difficult, but Tomorrow's Kingdom completely nails it.
Tomorrow's Kingdom marks the end of a terrific fantasy series; one that I highly recommend to both fans of fantasy and readers who are new to it.
Reasons to Read:
1. Uncommon stakes for YA:
One thing I love about The Gypsy King is that Persephone is put in a position fairly unique position compared to her YA counterparts. She takes on responsibilities virtually unheard of for most characters in YA - and that's part of why I love this series. And the risks have never been greater for Persephone than they are in Tomorrow's Kingdom. In some ways, this makes it seem like a more mature read, yet it will still enthrall younger readers.
2. The adventure of a lifetime:
Persephone embarks on a quest that will change her life. It's not at all what she expected for her future, but she's a resilient young woman who adapts to the difficult situations she encounters. Tomorrow's Kingdom is the conclusion of an epic adventure, which is sure to please readers who appreciate courageous characters on a risky journey. And as much as I loved the ending, the losses are strongly felt.
3. Endearing secondary characters:
I adore Persephone and Azriel, but I'm just as in love with the minor characters from the story as well! I didn't realize how much so until this third book. Persephone and Azriel make friends with so many people along the way, and they really add this extra dimension of depth to the story. The story becomes about much more than simply Persephone's life - it's about the future of an entire kingdom which is perfectly exemplified by the little group Persephone brings together.
I have loved following Persephone's story over these past couple of years. Fantasy has always been one of my favourite book genres, and The Gypsy King series is one in particular that I enjoy and will miss reading. It has plenty of excitement for its readers, with characters that will stay with you long past the time you finish reading the books. Just as importantly, it's great for readers who both love fantasy as much as I do and those readers who still need an introduction to it.
Hardcover personally purchased.
Maureen Fergus swept me away with the first book in her YA fantasy series, The Gypsy King. I loved the sequel, but I was a bit apprehensive waiting for Tomorrow's Kingdom to come out. The ending of a series is so difficult, but Tomorrow's Kingdom completely nails it.
Tomorrow's Kingdom marks the end of a terrific fantasy series; one that I highly recommend to both fans of fantasy and readers who are new to it.
Reasons to Read:
1. Uncommon stakes for YA:
One thing I love about The Gypsy King is that Persephone is put in a position fairly unique position compared to her YA counterparts. She takes on responsibilities virtually unheard of for most characters in YA - and that's part of why I love this series. And the risks have never been greater for Persephone than they are in Tomorrow's Kingdom. In some ways, this makes it seem like a more mature read, yet it will still enthrall younger readers.
2. The adventure of a lifetime:
Persephone embarks on a quest that will change her life. It's not at all what she expected for her future, but she's a resilient young woman who adapts to the difficult situations she encounters. Tomorrow's Kingdom is the conclusion of an epic adventure, which is sure to please readers who appreciate courageous characters on a risky journey. And as much as I loved the ending, the losses are strongly felt.
3. Endearing secondary characters:
I adore Persephone and Azriel, but I'm just as in love with the minor characters from the story as well! I didn't realize how much so until this third book. Persephone and Azriel make friends with so many people along the way, and they really add this extra dimension of depth to the story. The story becomes about much more than simply Persephone's life - it's about the future of an entire kingdom which is perfectly exemplified by the little group Persephone brings together.
I have loved following Persephone's story over these past couple of years. Fantasy has always been one of my favourite book genres, and The Gypsy King series is one in particular that I enjoy and will miss reading. It has plenty of excitement for its readers, with characters that will stay with you long past the time you finish reading the books. Just as importantly, it's great for readers who both love fantasy as much as I do and those readers who still need an introduction to it.
Hardcover personally purchased.
April 20, 2015
I'm hovering somewhere between 2.5 and 3 stars rating for the final book of The Gypsy King Trilogy. The biggest reason for the lower rating is that, for me, Tomorrow's Kingdom lacked that certain spark that was present in its predecessors. I was pretty much indifferent to the story until about 75% in after which Persephone and Mordecai finally faced off against each other. In fact, except for the few action parts and a few of the significant plot points, I can't seem to recall anything about the book. And I'm sitting here wondering what was used to fill up the 400 some pages.
However what I do know is that the author has the ability to create excellent characters like Persephone and exciting action/adventure scenes. I just wish she had given more of a personality to her villains. They were just so one-track mind, so Disney-esque. More than Mordecai and Bartok, I enjoyed reading about Murdok because there was a certain mystery about him, and it would've been nice if we had a glimpse of his past or a cause for his utmost loyalty to Mordecai.
With regards to the good guys, it was disappointing that Azriel was still unable to have a bigger impact on me. From a handsome chicken-thief to a handsome prince consort, Azriel failed to gain any significant progress in terms of character or involvement in the story. No doubt he is present to support Persephone at all times and has a hand in many things done in the book, but there was never a moment where he was the reason behind a clever idea or a won battle. More than that, the naughty, rakish behavior that was present in the first book was little present here. It was pretty much a one man, or rather a one woman's show for the entire book and most of the trilogy.
Overall, while the The Gypsy King Trilogy was an entertaining read, it was, regrettably, nothing remarkable.
However what I do know is that the author has the ability to create excellent characters like Persephone and exciting action/adventure scenes. I just wish she had given more of a personality to her villains. They were just so one-track mind, so Disney-esque. More than Mordecai and Bartok, I enjoyed reading about Murdok because there was a certain mystery about him, and it would've been nice if we had a glimpse of his past or a cause for his utmost loyalty to Mordecai.
With regards to the good guys, it was disappointing that Azriel was still unable to have a bigger impact on me. From a handsome chicken-thief to a handsome prince consort, Azriel failed to gain any significant progress in terms of character or involvement in the story. No doubt he is present to support Persephone at all times and has a hand in many things done in the book, but there was never a moment where he was the reason behind a clever idea or a won battle. More than that, the naughty, rakish behavior that was present in the first book was little present here. It was pretty much a one man, or rather a one woman's show for the entire book and most of the trilogy.
Overall, while the The Gypsy King Trilogy was an entertaining read, it was, regrettably, nothing remarkable.
August 3, 2014
Full review posted at: My Bibliophile Mind
Last time I was up until 3AM finishing A Fool’s Errand. This time, I beat my personal record and finished at 2AM. Sleep be damned.
his book starts off marvellously. There’s a huge ohhh my gosh, this changes everything moment right off the bat. It’s a delicious and unique plot twist, unlike many YA of this genre, and after I got over my initial shock I loved it because it added a dose of realism to this fantasy world.
I thought the best part of the book happened towards the end. In terms of plot and writing, Maureen Fergus was genius. She played the story so well, drew it out in such a way that I was delighted and furious and eager to keep reading all at the same time. Just when I thought things were over, and we were only left with tying the loose ends and a “The end”, Fergus was at it again.
The book wasn't perfect for me, but every adventure, blunder, heart-wrenching smile, and loss was one I am loathe to leave behind as I close the final page.
Thank you Maureen Fergus, for the gift of Persephone and Azriel.
Last time I was up until 3AM finishing A Fool’s Errand. This time, I beat my personal record and finished at 2AM. Sleep be damned.
his book starts off marvellously. There’s a huge ohhh my gosh, this changes everything moment right off the bat. It’s a delicious and unique plot twist, unlike many YA of this genre, and after I got over my initial shock I loved it because it added a dose of realism to this fantasy world.
I thought the best part of the book happened towards the end. In terms of plot and writing, Maureen Fergus was genius. She played the story so well, drew it out in such a way that I was delighted and furious and eager to keep reading all at the same time. Just when I thought things were over, and we were only left with tying the loose ends and a “The end”, Fergus was at it again.
The book wasn't perfect for me, but every adventure, blunder, heart-wrenching smile, and loss was one I am loathe to leave behind as I close the final page.
Thank you Maureen Fergus, for the gift of Persephone and Azriel.
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