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Fairytale Tarot #1
The Queen's Card
She's a mortal desperate for magic. He's a raven-shifting fae desperate to get rid of his.
When mortal guard in training Mira Gray discovers a breach in her kingdom's wards, she confronts the stranger in hopes of proving her loyalty and earning her place. But it's the ruthless, raven-shifting second-in-command of the enemy queen, who kidnaps her, intent on forcing her into a fae bargain.
Bael, her captor, has a wicked reputation and vicious shadow magic, but he's harboring secrets and an agenda of his own. The longer she spends magically tied to him, the more she realizes he may not be the enemy at all.
But the enemy queen will stop at nothing to make the mortals bow, and the only thing more dangerous than her twisted, arcana magic is the truth that is destined to tear Mira and Bael apart.
Inspired by Sleeping Beauty, THE QUEEN'S CARD is book 1 of an enemies-to-lovers romantasy trilogy with a morally gray, raven-shifting MMC and tarot card magic.
When mortal guard in training Mira Gray discovers a breach in her kingdom's wards, she confronts the stranger in hopes of proving her loyalty and earning her place. But it's the ruthless, raven-shifting second-in-command of the enemy queen, who kidnaps her, intent on forcing her into a fae bargain.
Bael, her captor, has a wicked reputation and vicious shadow magic, but he's harboring secrets and an agenda of his own. The longer she spends magically tied to him, the more she realizes he may not be the enemy at all.
But the enemy queen will stop at nothing to make the mortals bow, and the only thing more dangerous than her twisted, arcana magic is the truth that is destined to tear Mira and Bael apart.
Inspired by Sleeping Beauty, THE QUEEN'S CARD is book 1 of an enemies-to-lovers romantasy trilogy with a morally gray, raven-shifting MMC and tarot card magic.
262 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 24, 2025
63 people are currently reading
524 people want to read
About the author
Erin Archer
3 books23 followersErin Archer writes fairytale inspired romantasy featuring resilient heroines & the morally gray men who fall for them first. Her novels feature slow burn enemies-to-lovers romances and hard earned happily ever afters. Follow her @Authorerinarcher on Instagram or Facebook!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 160 reviews
March 4, 2025
This was such a fun read! Thank you to Erin for reaching out to me and asking me to review it. If life hadn’t gotten a bit in the way, I would have been able to say this was a full ARC review.
For a shorter story, this was so much fun and the plot moved at a very good pace [proportionate to our page count]. I think there could have been more detail/conversation added to our characters to make them deeper overall, but for the most part, you can see their profiles come through.
This was another interesting magic system to read, as it was based on Tarot (something I’m not intimately familiar with). There’s definitely room to expand upon the magic correlates to cards, so I’m excited to see how this advances to the next book! The main plot of this book is wrapped up nicely and we are given a good on ramp to a second book, without feeling like we’re just dropped off at the end with a pearl clutching cliff hanger.
For a shorter story, this was so much fun and the plot moved at a very good pace [proportionate to our page count]. I think there could have been more detail/conversation added to our characters to make them deeper overall, but for the most part, you can see their profiles come through.
This was another interesting magic system to read, as it was based on Tarot (something I’m not intimately familiar with). There’s definitely room to expand upon the magic correlates to cards, so I’m excited to see how this advances to the next book! The main plot of this book is wrapped up nicely and we are given a good on ramp to a second book, without feeling like we’re just dropped off at the end with a pearl clutching cliff hanger.
February 6, 2025
My application to be part of Erin Archer’s ARC team for this book was accepted and I received an ARC from her directly.
Words cannot describe how much I love this book and the fact that Erin Archer doesn’t have any miscommunication in a romantasy novel. I knew it was going to be a sleeping beauty retelling and honestly that made me slightly hesitant because I know that retellings can sometimes come across as just a recycled version of the original story, but this was different and fresh and everything I needed. The slow burn was everything and I can’t wait to recommend this book to people at the libraries I work at when it comes out!
Words cannot describe how much I love this book and the fact that Erin Archer doesn’t have any miscommunication in a romantasy novel. I knew it was going to be a sleeping beauty retelling and honestly that made me slightly hesitant because I know that retellings can sometimes come across as just a recycled version of the original story, but this was different and fresh and everything I needed. The slow burn was everything and I can’t wait to recommend this book to people at the libraries I work at when it comes out!
February 22, 2026
I usually don’t read inspired or retelling but with this book being inspired by Sleeping Beauty, I liked it. I’m looking forward to next one!
March 6, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - 4 stars
"You can find beauty in the most unexpected things. Those are the things that I guard with my life."
"It may have started with the mark, Mira." His warm breath tickles my lips. "But this," he brushes his lips along mine, "is real. At least to me."
Review:
This book was a quick, fast-paced read that kept me hooked from start to finish. One of the highlights was its unique magic system.
It’s a loose retelling of Sleeping Beauty, but with a dark twist and an evil queen that you can’t help but hate. She works together with goblins, which made it extra creepy.
The FMC is no damsel in distress but a royal guard. The MMC is a raven shifter who kidnaps the FMC. Their tension was amazing, paired with a great slow burn.
It ended with a cliffhanger, which left me eagerly anticipating the next book. I can’t wait to see what happens next!
- Romantasy
- Sleeping Beauty retelling
- Royal Guard FMC
- Raven shifter MMC
- Evil queen
- Unique magic system
- Tarot cards
- Slow burn
- Tension
- No spice
- Fast paced
"You can find beauty in the most unexpected things. Those are the things that I guard with my life."
"It may have started with the mark, Mira." His warm breath tickles my lips. "But this," he brushes his lips along mine, "is real. At least to me."
Review:
This book was a quick, fast-paced read that kept me hooked from start to finish. One of the highlights was its unique magic system.
It’s a loose retelling of Sleeping Beauty, but with a dark twist and an evil queen that you can’t help but hate. She works together with goblins, which made it extra creepy.
The FMC is no damsel in distress but a royal guard. The MMC is a raven shifter who kidnaps the FMC. Their tension was amazing, paired with a great slow burn.
It ended with a cliffhanger, which left me eagerly anticipating the next book. I can’t wait to see what happens next!
- Romantasy
- Sleeping Beauty retelling
- Royal Guard FMC
- Raven shifter MMC
- Evil queen
- Unique magic system
- Tarot cards
- Slow burn
- Tension
- No spice
- Fast paced
February 20, 2025
“Just when I thought my world was black and white, he showed me the beauty of the gray.”
This was a refreshing take on a sleeping beauty reimagining, especially with the mix of tarot card magic and raven shifters.
My favorite character is obviously the love interest, Bael, as I loved his humorous banter and felt the most dimensional. I wished the romance was a tad more fleshed out as it didn’t feel much as a slow-burn as advertised, but you can’t deny that there’s an obvious chemistry between him and Mira!
I love the direction this book concluded with, and I just know any and all questions will be answered the further this story progresses.
If you love enemies to lovers, forbidden romance, magical abilities unleashed, and a kingdom at war- you’ll love this book!
This was a refreshing take on a sleeping beauty reimagining, especially with the mix of tarot card magic and raven shifters.
My favorite character is obviously the love interest, Bael, as I loved his humorous banter and felt the most dimensional. I wished the romance was a tad more fleshed out as it didn’t feel much as a slow-burn as advertised, but you can’t deny that there’s an obvious chemistry between him and Mira!
I love the direction this book concluded with, and I just know any and all questions will be answered the further this story progresses.
If you love enemies to lovers, forbidden romance, magical abilities unleashed, and a kingdom at war- you’ll love this book!
July 13, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️ — A Promising Premise with Room to Grow
As a new reader of Erin Archer’s work, The Queen’s Card caught my eye with its intriguing title and hints of courtly drama and hidden magic. The world-building is rich and full of potential, with a unique setting that blends fantasy and political intrigue in a refreshing way. I appreciated the glimpses of deeper lore and the clever use of tarot elements throughout the plot.
That said, I found the pacing a bit uneven—some sections dragged while others felt rushed. The main character had compelling moments, but I struggled to fully connect with her journey at times. I also hoped for a bit more depth in the supporting cast, as a few characters felt underdeveloped or overly convenient to the plot.
Still, there’s a charm to Archer’s writing style, and I think fans of light fantasy with royal drama will find this an enjoyable read. I’m curious to see how the series progresses, and I think there's real potential if future books build on the strong foundation set here.
As a new reader of Erin Archer’s work, The Queen’s Card caught my eye with its intriguing title and hints of courtly drama and hidden magic. The world-building is rich and full of potential, with a unique setting that blends fantasy and political intrigue in a refreshing way. I appreciated the glimpses of deeper lore and the clever use of tarot elements throughout the plot.
That said, I found the pacing a bit uneven—some sections dragged while others felt rushed. The main character had compelling moments, but I struggled to fully connect with her journey at times. I also hoped for a bit more depth in the supporting cast, as a few characters felt underdeveloped or overly convenient to the plot.
Still, there’s a charm to Archer’s writing style, and I think fans of light fantasy with royal drama will find this an enjoyable read. I’m curious to see how the series progresses, and I think there's real potential if future books build on the strong foundation set here.
February 16, 2026
Thank you to the author for sending me a copy of this.
Wow what a ride! This was such a unique story and I loved the tarot magic as well as the raven shifters. I wasn’t always a fan of Mira, the FMC, but her character did evolve so that made me happy. And I loved Bael. He’s such a great character and the depth to him got to me. The pacing of this was great and things were constantly happening which I loved. And some reveals I definitely didn’t see coming. The slow burn was great too. The ending didn’t completely blow me away but because I really enjoyed the story I’m looking forward to continuing the series.
Wow what a ride! This was such a unique story and I loved the tarot magic as well as the raven shifters. I wasn’t always a fan of Mira, the FMC, but her character did evolve so that made me happy. And I loved Bael. He’s such a great character and the depth to him got to me. The pacing of this was great and things were constantly happening which I loved. And some reveals I definitely didn’t see coming. The slow burn was great too. The ending didn’t completely blow me away but because I really enjoyed the story I’m looking forward to continuing the series.
August 24, 2025
The Queen's Card was captivating, interesting and an easy enjoyabel romantasy read!
A big thanks to Erin Archer for the ARC, and I wish you all the best of luck with this beautiful book!
✨️ romantasy
💚 (upper) YA
✨️ slow burn
💚 raven-shifter (and a shadow-daddy)
✨️ badass FMC
💚 lot's of magic
✨️evil queen
💚 eminmes to lovers
✨️fairy tale retelling
A big thanks to Erin Archer for the ARC, and I wish you all the best of luck with this beautiful book!
✨️ romantasy
💚 (upper) YA
✨️ slow burn
💚 raven-shifter (and a shadow-daddy)
✨️ badass FMC
💚 lot's of magic
✨️evil queen
💚 eminmes to lovers
✨️fairy tale retelling
February 26, 2025
Thank you to Erin Archer for the ARC!
The Queen’s Card is a loose Sleeping Beauty retelling, with the FMC as the princess’s guard instead of being the princess. It was a pretty fast read, the author packed a lot of action into 250 pages so it was hard to put down.
The story takes place over the course of a few days, so the slow burn can only be so slow. It felt a bit closer to insta-love, however I still enjoyed the chemistry between Bael and Mira. I liked seeing how Mira’s preconceived notions of Bael and the Azrea kingdom change as she learned more about them. There were several twists that I didn’t see coming, and I love when a story surprises me.
I would’ve liked a little more of an explanation of the magic system and world. It seems that Mira was kept in the dark about a lot of details due to not being a Keeper, but as the princess’s guard I was a bit surprised about how little she knew.
I appreciate that the main story is wrapped up by the end of the book - I like a good cliffhanger but it’s not always necessary. There are still some unresolved elements left to explore, and I’m interested to see how those play out in the sequel.
Some of my favorite quotes:
‘"You're giving me a weapon?" I ask, my eyebrow raised. "A fork," he amends.
"Consider it a peace offering. No stabbing though. It's a house rule."’
“Just when I thought my world was black and white, he showed me the beauty of the gray.”
“I don't want to see the suffering in his eyes, to see the sorrow there. He's supposed to be nothing but pure malice and cruelty. He's not supposed to be a victim, too.”
The Queen’s Card is a loose Sleeping Beauty retelling, with the FMC as the princess’s guard instead of being the princess. It was a pretty fast read, the author packed a lot of action into 250 pages so it was hard to put down.
The story takes place over the course of a few days, so the slow burn can only be so slow. It felt a bit closer to insta-love, however I still enjoyed the chemistry between Bael and Mira. I liked seeing how Mira’s preconceived notions of Bael and the Azrea kingdom change as she learned more about them. There were several twists that I didn’t see coming, and I love when a story surprises me.
I would’ve liked a little more of an explanation of the magic system and world. It seems that Mira was kept in the dark about a lot of details due to not being a Keeper, but as the princess’s guard I was a bit surprised about how little she knew.
I appreciate that the main story is wrapped up by the end of the book - I like a good cliffhanger but it’s not always necessary. There are still some unresolved elements left to explore, and I’m interested to see how those play out in the sequel.
Some of my favorite quotes:
‘"You're giving me a weapon?" I ask, my eyebrow raised. "A fork," he amends.
"Consider it a peace offering. No stabbing though. It's a house rule."’
“Just when I thought my world was black and white, he showed me the beauty of the gray.”
“I don't want to see the suffering in his eyes, to see the sorrow there. He's supposed to be nothing but pure malice and cruelty. He's not supposed to be a victim, too.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 22, 2025
Erin Archer’s The Queen’s Card is a beautifully atmospheric tale that draws you into a world of veiled power, rebellion, and a magic system rooted in fate and intuition. From the start, Archer’s world-building is graceful and immersive… never heavy-handed, but rich with detail. The world feels authentic and lived-in with a subtle tension humming beneath the surface. You sense the politics and dangers behind palace doors.
At the heart of this world is a unique and enchanting form of magic: the cards. Reminiscent of tarot but infused with their own lore, the deck offers more than mere fortune-telling. Archer treats this magic with reverence and restraint, letting it shape the story in quiet, powerful moments rather than grand displays. It’s the kind of magic that stays with you, not because of what it does, but because of what it means.
What makes all of this work so well is Archer’s writing. Her prose is elegant and filled with emotion and intention. Descriptions bloom softly across the page, and conversations unfold authentically, making even the smallest interactions feel significant. She trusts her readers by never over-explaining or rushing. The result is a reading experience that feels like being drawn into a spell: slow, deliberate, and captivating.
The Queen’s Card isn’t a book for those seeking relentless action. It’s for readers who appreciate layered storytelling, magic, and a world that whispers rather than shouts. Erin Archer has crafted something rare: a fantasy that breathes; it lingers. And long after the final page, you’ll still feel its cards turning in your mind.
At the heart of this world is a unique and enchanting form of magic: the cards. Reminiscent of tarot but infused with their own lore, the deck offers more than mere fortune-telling. Archer treats this magic with reverence and restraint, letting it shape the story in quiet, powerful moments rather than grand displays. It’s the kind of magic that stays with you, not because of what it does, but because of what it means.
What makes all of this work so well is Archer’s writing. Her prose is elegant and filled with emotion and intention. Descriptions bloom softly across the page, and conversations unfold authentically, making even the smallest interactions feel significant. She trusts her readers by never over-explaining or rushing. The result is a reading experience that feels like being drawn into a spell: slow, deliberate, and captivating.
The Queen’s Card isn’t a book for those seeking relentless action. It’s for readers who appreciate layered storytelling, magic, and a world that whispers rather than shouts. Erin Archer has crafted something rare: a fantasy that breathes; it lingers. And long after the final page, you’ll still feel its cards turning in your mind.
June 29, 2025
I have one big weakness: fairytale retellings! And, I have a book series I absolutely loved: Once Upon a Broken Heart. When I saw this book on Netgalley and saw that it combined both, I had to request a copy. I was very happy that the author granted me a digital one!
What I absolutely loved about this book, is the original way to retell the famous story of Sleeping Beauty. All the well known elements are there: The Evil Witch, the Ravens, the Sleeping Princess, the lack of invitations and of course magic. However, we're not experiencing all this through the eyes of the princess or the witch, but through a guard and a raven! It made the story fresh, interesting and new.
That's also because of the magic and world building. I have to admit that it sometimes felt like this could have been explained a little better. It was hard to grasp the magic, the rules and what was going on with the cards. However, I liked how the magic was different, how this was really about politics and the bigger picture and I'm curious about what's waiting for us in the sequel.
I also liked the character growth throughout this story. Our heroine starts with a certain view on the world, her magic and what she should be and throughout the story she learned more and more about what's truly going on and was able to change her view on things. And that all felt natural and realistic. She's not turning all of a sudden. She's just gradually understanding the world better.
What I absolutely loved about this book, is the original way to retell the famous story of Sleeping Beauty. All the well known elements are there: The Evil Witch, the Ravens, the Sleeping Princess, the lack of invitations and of course magic. However, we're not experiencing all this through the eyes of the princess or the witch, but through a guard and a raven! It made the story fresh, interesting and new.
That's also because of the magic and world building. I have to admit that it sometimes felt like this could have been explained a little better. It was hard to grasp the magic, the rules and what was going on with the cards. However, I liked how the magic was different, how this was really about politics and the bigger picture and I'm curious about what's waiting for us in the sequel.
I also liked the character growth throughout this story. Our heroine starts with a certain view on the world, her magic and what she should be and throughout the story she learned more and more about what's truly going on and was able to change her view on things. And that all felt natural and realistic. She's not turning all of a sudden. She's just gradually understanding the world better.
February 21, 2026
This is a great shorter read. want to read a book on a short flight, this is it. It was so refreshing to not have an entire book with a miscomunication trope. I will say the first 1 or 2 chapters I felt lost of where the story was going. but that quickly resolved . interesting magic system and how the Arcana cards play a role.
There were maybe 2 or 3 small parts that felt like sleeping beauty, but overall I did not see a full connection.
excited for the next book in the series!😁☺️
"You can find beauty in the most unexpected things. Those are the things that I guard with my life."
"You don't always have to be doing something to make a difference."
Thank you Erin for letting me join the ARC team.
There were maybe 2 or 3 small parts that felt like sleeping beauty, but overall I did not see a full connection.
excited for the next book in the series!😁☺️
"You can find beauty in the most unexpected things. Those are the things that I guard with my life."
"You don't always have to be doing something to make a difference."
Thank you Erin for letting me join the ARC team.
February 16, 2025
3.75 stars rounded up
This book was action packed and had a lot of moving parts, especially for only being like 250 pages. I definitely enjoyed it, but I wish the magic system/world building was a little bit more explained.
Mira just wants to be appreciated by her sister and friends, as well as become a Keeper but keeps facing trials that prevent that from happening. However Mira’s tenacity never stops.
Baels backstory was very complex and in Mira’s eyes at first he’s the villain but soon enough she learns to trust him. In my opinion Bael and Mira’s love story was insta love, but I am excited to read book 2 and continue their journey!
Thank you Erin Archer for the arc!
This book was action packed and had a lot of moving parts, especially for only being like 250 pages. I definitely enjoyed it, but I wish the magic system/world building was a little bit more explained.
Mira just wants to be appreciated by her sister and friends, as well as become a Keeper but keeps facing trials that prevent that from happening. However Mira’s tenacity never stops.
Baels backstory was very complex and in Mira’s eyes at first he’s the villain but soon enough she learns to trust him. In my opinion Bael and Mira’s love story was insta love, but I am excited to read book 2 and continue their journey!
Thank you Erin Archer for the arc!
June 16, 2025
It was an enjoyable read! I love the theme and it somehow felt like a loose retelling of Snow White to me instead of Sleeping Beauty? With the queen and the ravens and the mirror (I like that tho). I really like the tarot card part, although I do wish we get to see them more utilized and see more cards mentioned / used. I do love the characters and want to know more about them in following books. Excited to see where this series would go!
June 28, 2025
I really enjoyed this book, the magical system stood out as one of the most unique aspects, it felt fresh and different from most fantasy or fairytale inspired reads I’ve come across. Erin Archer has crafted a world that feels both whimsical and mysterious, which kept me intrigued throughout. The characters were likable and engaging, and I found myself wanting to learn more about them. A bit more depth or description would have made them even stronger, but I’m hopeful we’ll get that the future book. This is a great pick for readers who enjoy fairytale retellings with a magical twist. I’m already looking forward to the next installment in the series!
January 8, 2026
I loved this! It was so entertaining and the characters were very interesting (although sometimes I confused some of them). Mira’s realization of what world she was really living in and the veil being pulled off was simply amazing. I simply didn’t understand some of the story because it went by too fast (but there’s a second book so it’s ok) and I can safely say that I fell in love with Bael and Mira but I am sad about how their bond ended. Hoping they get it back in the next one!
February 7, 2025
I was lucky enough to get this as an ARC read. I started reading this book as soon as a I got the email and only put it down when I had to go to work.
Mira is a heroine people can relate to. She struggles with her identity and where she fits in the world but knows she is made for more. Bael is COMPLEX. Around every turn you learn more about him and how looks can be very deceiving.
This maybe one of the best fairytale retellings I’ve read because it wasn’t just Sleeping Beauty in someone else’s words. It was an original story that worked off the fairytale. And to not have it from “royalties” POV made it even better.
The reason I give it ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ is because I struggled with the 250 pages. I would have loved even 50 more pages to add more depth to some of the chapters, they went by very quickly.
I can’t wait for book 2!
Mira is a heroine people can relate to. She struggles with her identity and where she fits in the world but knows she is made for more. Bael is COMPLEX. Around every turn you learn more about him and how looks can be very deceiving.
This maybe one of the best fairytale retellings I’ve read because it wasn’t just Sleeping Beauty in someone else’s words. It was an original story that worked off the fairytale. And to not have it from “royalties” POV made it even better.
The reason I give it ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ is because I struggled with the 250 pages. I would have loved even 50 more pages to add more depth to some of the chapters, they went by very quickly.
I can’t wait for book 2!
February 6, 2025
4.5 stars
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. (via the author)
I read this the day I got the email with my ARC lol. I'm always mildly hesitant when it comes to shorter stories (~250 pages here) because usually the things I love to see aren't there. I'm delighted to have been proved wrong.
I was impressed with how well the world was built how Mira and Bael grew as characters throughout the story. Mira was grappling with finding out the reality of what she thought she knew and Bael showed there was more to him than being the Queen's pawn. The slow burn between them felt natural and was at the perfect pace for the story.
Smidge of a cliffhanger at the end but I will (mostly) survive waiting for the next one, though I am looking forward to it!
March 25, 2025
Anytime someone puts a Sleeping Beauty retelling out there, you just know I'm going to run to get my hands on it.
And I LOVED this book so much, it was a nice breath of fresh air that I needed when picking up a new book. Erin did this retelling such a justice, obsessed!
And I LOVED this book so much, it was a nice breath of fresh air that I needed when picking up a new book. Erin did this retelling such a justice, obsessed!
February 22, 2026
You must give this book a try. It was a very good book that has a retelling story of sleeping beauty and had some snow white aspects to it. Loved how it has raven shifters in it and magic. I just finished it yesterday and it's still sticking with me today. Can't wait for book 2.
August 27, 2025
The Queen’s Card was such a fun and quick read! I really enjoyed following the characters, who were engaging and easy to connect with, and the story moved at a pace that kept me turning the pages.
I particularly liked the magic system built around tarot cards, it felt imaginative and added a unique touch to the worldbuilding without ever being too heavy-handed. The balance of character interactions and magical elements made for an enjoyable, light fantasy that was easy to get lost in.
I particularly liked the magic system built around tarot cards, it felt imaginative and added a unique touch to the worldbuilding without ever being too heavy-handed. The balance of character interactions and magical elements made for an enjoyable, light fantasy that was easy to get lost in.
March 2, 2026
The magic, the characters, the storyline. I’m completely sucked in. The humor was perfect with a very relatable FMC who’s really just out here doing her best. Cute enemies to lovers with fun banter and relationship progression. A quick read and absolutely worth every minute!
February 7, 2026
What a fun read this was. I couldn’t put it down.
Mira is a mortal who is determined to find her keeper magic. Raven is on his own secret mission when he bumps into Mira inside her Kings castle. Little did they know just how useful they would become to one another in order to reach their goals.
I loved everything about this book….
* The characters
* The unique world of tarot card magic that was action packed at a fast and steady pace.
* The slow build of enemies to lovers that pulls you right in from the start with the fun banter.
* The storytelling and beautiful written worlds as the story unfolds with wait…what…type of plot twists.
* Flashbacks and how they were written in.
* The overall vibe.
You’ll definitely want to add this to your TBR!
Thank you Erin for this amazing opportunity of being apart of your ARC team for your trilogy.
Cant wait to see what happens next in book 2.
Mira is a mortal who is determined to find her keeper magic. Raven is on his own secret mission when he bumps into Mira inside her Kings castle. Little did they know just how useful they would become to one another in order to reach their goals.
I loved everything about this book….
* The characters
* The unique world of tarot card magic that was action packed at a fast and steady pace.
* The slow build of enemies to lovers that pulls you right in from the start with the fun banter.
* The storytelling and beautiful written worlds as the story unfolds with wait…what…type of plot twists.
* Flashbacks and how they were written in.
* The overall vibe.
You’ll definitely want to add this to your TBR!
Thank you Erin for this amazing opportunity of being apart of your ARC team for your trilogy.
Cant wait to see what happens next in book 2.
December 10, 2025
3 / 5 Stars ⭐️
Easy quick read. I think it could have easily been refined and flushed out more. The characters felt a bit flat to me at times.
Easy quick read. I think it could have easily been refined and flushed out more. The characters felt a bit flat to me at times.
June 27, 2025
The first thing that drew me to The Queen's Card was its stunning cover and as a lover of fairy tale retellings, I knew I had to read it. The story didn’t disappoint!
Told from Mira’s perspective, the plot revolves around her desire to protect the kingdom like the Keepers, but she can’t claim that role until she unlocks her magic. Alongside her is Bael, her raven-shifter love interest whose protective instincts and deep connection with Mira added so much depth to the story. I really loved their chemistry, Bael’s care for her was swoon-worthy.
The plot had plenty of twists and turns that kept me engaged throughout. The Queen of Azrea’s character was another highlight, strong, commanding, and well-written. The world-building was immersive and action-packed, with enough intrigue to keep you flipping the pages.
Every character had their own role and shined in it, and the pacing made it a binge-worthy read. Erin Archer’s writing shows great promise, and the book ends with a solid cliffhanger that leaves you eager for the next part.
Can’t wait for Book 2!
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC! All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own and honest.
Told from Mira’s perspective, the plot revolves around her desire to protect the kingdom like the Keepers, but she can’t claim that role until she unlocks her magic. Alongside her is Bael, her raven-shifter love interest whose protective instincts and deep connection with Mira added so much depth to the story. I really loved their chemistry, Bael’s care for her was swoon-worthy.
The plot had plenty of twists and turns that kept me engaged throughout. The Queen of Azrea’s character was another highlight, strong, commanding, and well-written. The world-building was immersive and action-packed, with enough intrigue to keep you flipping the pages.
Every character had their own role and shined in it, and the pacing made it a binge-worthy read. Erin Archer’s writing shows great promise, and the book ends with a solid cliffhanger that leaves you eager for the next part.
Can’t wait for Book 2!
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC! All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own and honest.
February 22, 2025
Erin Archer's The Queen's Card is a breathtaking fairytale retelling that brilliantly intertwines the whimsy of classic stories with the grit and determination of a modern fantasy. This novel not only reimagines the traditional roles within a fairytale but also introduces a heroine whose journey is as enchanting as it is empowering.
Mira, the protagonist, is a vividly drawn character whose resolve and courage are tested time and again. As she trains to become a Keeper of the Wards, a guardian charged with protecting the kingdom, she faces both external and internal challenges. Her quest to prove herself and earn her magic is fraught with danger, especially as a formidable enemy—the tarot-using queen—threatens the stability of their world.
The depth of the world-building in this novel is exceptional. The kingdom, with its layers of magic and secrecy, is depicted in rich detail, making it easy for readers to lose themselves in its intrigue. The use of tarot as a tool of both prophecy and peril adds a unique and compelling layer to the narrative, deepening the mystical atmosphere of the story.
Archer excels in creating dynamic relationships, particularly between Mira and the Raven, the enemy queen’s mysterious second-in-command. Their initial hostility slowly transforms into a complex alliance that is as unpredictable as it is thrilling. This evolution is handled with a deft touch, providing a slow burn that fans of both fantasy and romance will find irresistible.
The plot of The Queen's Card is tightly paced, with twists that are both surprising and satisfying. Each chapter builds upon the last, weaving a tale of adventure, betrayal, and romance that is impossible to put down. The stakes are high, making the battles—both physical and magical—intense and compelling.
Archer's prose is lyrical yet accessible, striking the perfect balance between descriptive imagery and action. The emotional depth she brings to her characters, especially Mira, allows the reader to truly connect with their struggles and triumphs. The themes of identity and destiny are explored with sensitivity and insight, giving the story a resonant impact that goes beyond its pages.
In summary, The Queen's Card is a masterpiece of retelling, transforming familiar tropes into something entirely new and exciting. Erin Archer has not only written a tale of magic and adventure but has also crafted a story about discovering one's strength and forging one's path. This novel is a must-read, deserving of its five stars and a place on any fantasy lover's bookshelf.
Mira, the protagonist, is a vividly drawn character whose resolve and courage are tested time and again. As she trains to become a Keeper of the Wards, a guardian charged with protecting the kingdom, she faces both external and internal challenges. Her quest to prove herself and earn her magic is fraught with danger, especially as a formidable enemy—the tarot-using queen—threatens the stability of their world.
The depth of the world-building in this novel is exceptional. The kingdom, with its layers of magic and secrecy, is depicted in rich detail, making it easy for readers to lose themselves in its intrigue. The use of tarot as a tool of both prophecy and peril adds a unique and compelling layer to the narrative, deepening the mystical atmosphere of the story.
Archer excels in creating dynamic relationships, particularly between Mira and the Raven, the enemy queen’s mysterious second-in-command. Their initial hostility slowly transforms into a complex alliance that is as unpredictable as it is thrilling. This evolution is handled with a deft touch, providing a slow burn that fans of both fantasy and romance will find irresistible.
The plot of The Queen's Card is tightly paced, with twists that are both surprising and satisfying. Each chapter builds upon the last, weaving a tale of adventure, betrayal, and romance that is impossible to put down. The stakes are high, making the battles—both physical and magical—intense and compelling.
Archer's prose is lyrical yet accessible, striking the perfect balance between descriptive imagery and action. The emotional depth she brings to her characters, especially Mira, allows the reader to truly connect with their struggles and triumphs. The themes of identity and destiny are explored with sensitivity and insight, giving the story a resonant impact that goes beyond its pages.
In summary, The Queen's Card is a masterpiece of retelling, transforming familiar tropes into something entirely new and exciting. Erin Archer has not only written a tale of magic and adventure but has also crafted a story about discovering one's strength and forging one's path. This novel is a must-read, deserving of its five stars and a place on any fantasy lover's bookshelf.
October 18, 2025
{Fairy Retelling; M/F; single first-person POV: Clean Romance}
Now this is what I have been seeking: a fresh take, romance with plot, characters, and world-building. Too bad it feels like the author lost track of their own magic rules.
For years Mira has wanted to imitate her mother and sister and become a Keeper, or basically, a guardian who strengthens the wards around her kingdom. Wanting to prove her worth, she lurks in odd places around the kingdom as she sees shadows creeping between the cracks and in the throne room.
In one such dark hallway she accidentally meets the opposing kingdom’s second enforcer, and he kidnaps her. She discovers that magic is much more than simple ward-casting, and that tarot cards underpin the whole magical economy. Little did she know, Bael, or Raven, is not who he seems, and he introduces her to the gnarly underbelly of the city to show her life is not bliss in the magical realms.
It’s a ‘coming-of-age’ story where Mira not only grows into her own power but actively creates the plan to take down evil, despite not being the most powerful creature around. I like that.
But I need to mention some things that made me wince. “You don’t always have to be doing something to make a difference.” What?!? Mira is supposed to grow as a character, but her epiphanies confused me. Mira’s explanation of how she grew more aware was completely strange and unwanted. I can figure this out. What I took from the story is that without intent, we might all be the same. And to make the story fit the wicked witch of the west melting, Mira suddenly found another power she shouldn’t have, visions. So much for not needing powers to make a difference.
❤️ The Romance ❤️
Bael seems to be a Shadow Daddy? I see this fad but don’t really understand why it’s so popular. He’s conflicted, cursed, and caring. To prevent her from running away, Bael makes a magical bargain, and (oops) they form a mate bond.
Kissing and touching
Forced tattoo?
The World-building:
There are 3 kingdoms, two of which have magic. Mira lives in Lander, the supposedly magic-less realm that is protected by stolen ward-making.
Azrea: is the land of desperation. Queen Roma ruthlessly controls the citizens, but they foment rebellion in a half-hidden manner.
Cool items:
⁃ Magic Mirror
⁃ Bael. The raven.
⁃ Tarot: death card
⁃ Steamboat casinos
⁃ broken logic
Now this is what I have been seeking: a fresh take, romance with plot, characters, and world-building. Too bad it feels like the author lost track of their own magic rules.
For years Mira has wanted to imitate her mother and sister and become a Keeper, or basically, a guardian who strengthens the wards around her kingdom. Wanting to prove her worth, she lurks in odd places around the kingdom as she sees shadows creeping between the cracks and in the throne room.
In one such dark hallway she accidentally meets the opposing kingdom’s second enforcer, and he kidnaps her. She discovers that magic is much more than simple ward-casting, and that tarot cards underpin the whole magical economy. Little did she know, Bael, or Raven, is not who he seems, and he introduces her to the gnarly underbelly of the city to show her life is not bliss in the magical realms.
It’s a ‘coming-of-age’ story where Mira not only grows into her own power but actively creates the plan to take down evil, despite not being the most powerful creature around. I like that.
But I need to mention some things that made me wince. “You don’t always have to be doing something to make a difference.” What?!? Mira is supposed to grow as a character, but her epiphanies confused me. Mira’s explanation of how she grew more aware was completely strange and unwanted. I can figure this out. What I took from the story is that without intent, we might all be the same. And to make the story fit the wicked witch of the west melting, Mira suddenly found another power she shouldn’t have, visions. So much for not needing powers to make a difference.
❤️ The Romance ❤️
Bael seems to be a Shadow Daddy? I see this fad but don’t really understand why it’s so popular. He’s conflicted, cursed, and caring. To prevent her from running away, Bael makes a magical bargain, and (oops) they form a mate bond.
Kissing and touching
Forced tattoo?
The World-building:
There are 3 kingdoms, two of which have magic. Mira lives in Lander, the supposedly magic-less realm that is protected by stolen ward-making.
Azrea: is the land of desperation. Queen Roma ruthlessly controls the citizens, but they foment rebellion in a half-hidden manner.
Cool items:
⁃ Magic Mirror
⁃ Bael. The raven.
⁃ Tarot: death card
⁃ Steamboat casinos
⁃ broken logic
June 17, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and Erin Archer for the opportunity to read an early copy of The Queen’s Card in exchange for my honest review.
This was a beautifully imaginative start to what could become a truly captivating series. From the opening chapters, I was pulled in by the richly detailed worldbuilding and the creative spin on fairytale elements. The use of tarot magic was unique and intriguing, and I loved spotting nods to classic tales like Sleeping Beauty and Snow White, (though I wouldn’t exactly categorize this as a straightforward retelling.) There’s definite potential in this concept and universe.
The first third of the book felt strong and immersive, but as the story progressed, I found myself skimming more than I wanted to. The pacing became noticeably rushed, especially when it came to the romance. Mira and Bael had the bones of an interesting dynamic, but their emotional connection wasn’t fully fleshed out, making the love story feel a bit more convenient than earned.
There was also a lot going on plot wise for a short novel, and unfortunately, much of it was left under explained. Key aspects of the world, like the royal family’s lineage, the fate of Mira’s parents, and even the foundational rules of the tarot based magic, felt a bit vague or brushed over. I also would have loved more depth when it came to the main character herself. We don’t get too much insight into Mira’s background, personality, or her relationships with anyone, which made it difficult to fully connect with her as a heroine.
That said, the book is a fast read with clear ambition, and I did enjoy the atmosphere and the promise of the larger narrative arc. I truly believe this story would have benefitted from being expanded into a much longer book or even two books, giving the characters and plot room to develop and breathe.
I’m hopeful the future books will take the time to explore more of the lore, the emotional layers, and give us a stronger sense of who these characters are and why we should root for them. I’ll be keeping an eye out for what comes next in the series.
I give it a solid 3.5 stars
Spice Rating; 🌶️ (Some Kissing)
This was a beautifully imaginative start to what could become a truly captivating series. From the opening chapters, I was pulled in by the richly detailed worldbuilding and the creative spin on fairytale elements. The use of tarot magic was unique and intriguing, and I loved spotting nods to classic tales like Sleeping Beauty and Snow White, (though I wouldn’t exactly categorize this as a straightforward retelling.) There’s definite potential in this concept and universe.
The first third of the book felt strong and immersive, but as the story progressed, I found myself skimming more than I wanted to. The pacing became noticeably rushed, especially when it came to the romance. Mira and Bael had the bones of an interesting dynamic, but their emotional connection wasn’t fully fleshed out, making the love story feel a bit more convenient than earned.
There was also a lot going on plot wise for a short novel, and unfortunately, much of it was left under explained. Key aspects of the world, like the royal family’s lineage, the fate of Mira’s parents, and even the foundational rules of the tarot based magic, felt a bit vague or brushed over. I also would have loved more depth when it came to the main character herself. We don’t get too much insight into Mira’s background, personality, or her relationships with anyone, which made it difficult to fully connect with her as a heroine.
That said, the book is a fast read with clear ambition, and I did enjoy the atmosphere and the promise of the larger narrative arc. I truly believe this story would have benefitted from being expanded into a much longer book or even two books, giving the characters and plot room to develop and breathe.
I’m hopeful the future books will take the time to explore more of the lore, the emotional layers, and give us a stronger sense of who these characters are and why we should root for them. I’ll be keeping an eye out for what comes next in the series.
I give it a solid 3.5 stars
Spice Rating; 🌶️ (Some Kissing)
June 15, 2025
Wow. Just, wow! "The Queen's Card" by Erin Archer is an absolute masterpiece of a fairytale retelling, and I devoured every single page. This book completely captivated me from start to finish, earning a solid 5 out of 5 stars!
What makes this book so incredibly special is its fresh and ingenious twist on the classic Sleeping Beauty tale. It doesn't just rehash the story you know; instead, it flips expectations on their head, focusing on Mira, a royal guard training to be a Keeper, rather than the princess herself. This fresh perspective immediately pulled me in, offering a thrilling new lens through which to view a beloved legend.
And speaking of that twist, it weaves seamlessly into the utterly captivating romance. The enemies-to-lovers dynamic between Mira and the enigmatic Raven (Bael) is perfectly executed. Their slow-burn chemistry sizzles, growing from intense animosity to a deep, compelling connection that felt incredibly earned. The way their relationship develops against the backdrop of this reimagined fairytale—with the core Sleeping Beauty elements impacting their journey and choices—is simply brilliant. It’s not just a love story; it’s a love story intrinsically tied to the very fabric of the twisted fairytale itself, making it feel fresh and unforgettable.
Erin Archer's writing is immersive, pulling you into a world filled with unique tarot-inspired magic, dangerous secrets, and high stakes. The pacing is fantastic, keeping the tension high and the pages turning effortlessly. Mira's journey of self-discovery and her fight to protect her kingdom are incredibly compelling, and Bael is the perfect morally gray, intriguing love interest you can't help but root for.
If you're a fan of fairytale retellings that dare to be different, crave a truly satisfying enemies-to-lovers slow burn, and want to get lost in a richly imagined fantasy world, then stop what you're doing and pick up "The Queen's Card." It's everything I could want in a romantasy, and I'm already desperate for book two!
What makes this book so incredibly special is its fresh and ingenious twist on the classic Sleeping Beauty tale. It doesn't just rehash the story you know; instead, it flips expectations on their head, focusing on Mira, a royal guard training to be a Keeper, rather than the princess herself. This fresh perspective immediately pulled me in, offering a thrilling new lens through which to view a beloved legend.
And speaking of that twist, it weaves seamlessly into the utterly captivating romance. The enemies-to-lovers dynamic between Mira and the enigmatic Raven (Bael) is perfectly executed. Their slow-burn chemistry sizzles, growing from intense animosity to a deep, compelling connection that felt incredibly earned. The way their relationship develops against the backdrop of this reimagined fairytale—with the core Sleeping Beauty elements impacting their journey and choices—is simply brilliant. It’s not just a love story; it’s a love story intrinsically tied to the very fabric of the twisted fairytale itself, making it feel fresh and unforgettable.
Erin Archer's writing is immersive, pulling you into a world filled with unique tarot-inspired magic, dangerous secrets, and high stakes. The pacing is fantastic, keeping the tension high and the pages turning effortlessly. Mira's journey of self-discovery and her fight to protect her kingdom are incredibly compelling, and Bael is the perfect morally gray, intriguing love interest you can't help but root for.
If you're a fan of fairytale retellings that dare to be different, crave a truly satisfying enemies-to-lovers slow burn, and want to get lost in a richly imagined fantasy world, then stop what you're doing and pick up "The Queen's Card." It's everything I could want in a romantasy, and I'm already desperate for book two!
February 5, 2025
Thank you Erin Archer for sending me this ARC!
The Queen’s Card is the first book in a Fantasy Romance series filled with interesting magic, great characters and slow burn romance and I really liked it.
All Mira wants is to become a keeper like her sister and get her own magic so she can better guard the princess and when she finally sees a chance to prove herself, she does her best only to end up kidnapped by the enemy queen’s second in command. Forced to work together with the mysterious queen’s raven, Mira needs to find a way to stop the queen’s magic, which proves difficult with her princess in peril and her growing feelings for Bael.
The Queen’s Card is a fun and quick read, I really liked the twist to this Sleeping Beauty retelling where the FMC is not the princess, but her guard. The magic system, with the addition of the tarot cards, was really interesting and the fast paced plot had me finishing this book in one sitting. Mira was a bit childish and annoyed me in the beginning, but it was great to see how much she grew in this book and I really liked her at the end of it. Bael, the queen’s Raven, was the kind of shadow wielding MMC we all love and I liked his and Mira’s slow burn enemies to allies to lovers romance, they were great together and I always love the he falls first trope.
The reason I couldn’t give this book 5 stars is because I couldn’t really connect with the characters. I liked reading about them and found them interesting, but there was just something missing that stooped me from fully loving this book. It also felt like everything happened really quickly without explaining some things which left me confused at times, but it’s a 250 pages fast paced book so I guess that is to be expected.
The Queen’s Card is an interesting fantasy romance book that I really enjoyed and recommend to everyone who likes this genre.
The Queen’s Card is the first book in a Fantasy Romance series filled with interesting magic, great characters and slow burn romance and I really liked it.
All Mira wants is to become a keeper like her sister and get her own magic so she can better guard the princess and when she finally sees a chance to prove herself, she does her best only to end up kidnapped by the enemy queen’s second in command. Forced to work together with the mysterious queen’s raven, Mira needs to find a way to stop the queen’s magic, which proves difficult with her princess in peril and her growing feelings for Bael.
The Queen’s Card is a fun and quick read, I really liked the twist to this Sleeping Beauty retelling where the FMC is not the princess, but her guard. The magic system, with the addition of the tarot cards, was really interesting and the fast paced plot had me finishing this book in one sitting. Mira was a bit childish and annoyed me in the beginning, but it was great to see how much she grew in this book and I really liked her at the end of it. Bael, the queen’s Raven, was the kind of shadow wielding MMC we all love and I liked his and Mira’s slow burn enemies to allies to lovers romance, they were great together and I always love the he falls first trope.
The reason I couldn’t give this book 5 stars is because I couldn’t really connect with the characters. I liked reading about them and found them interesting, but there was just something missing that stooped me from fully loving this book. It also felt like everything happened really quickly without explaining some things which left me confused at times, but it’s a 250 pages fast paced book so I guess that is to be expected.
The Queen’s Card is an interesting fantasy romance book that I really enjoyed and recommend to everyone who likes this genre.
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