What do you think?
Rate this book
The Wicked Princess #1
Dynasty of the Wicked
A wicked princess. A cursed heir. A marriage bound in blood.
When Princess Zhi Ruo is ripped from her father’s vicious court and imprisoned by the enemy kingdom, she thinks her empire will rescue her–but she’s wrong.
Abandoned by her father and his men, she’s left to rot in enemy territory. Her last hope comes from Feng Mian, the cursed, blind heir imprisoned alongside her.
Feng Mian offers her a a marriage bond that will allow her to use his dark magic to escape, or death. But binding herself to the beautiful, ruthless heir has its own his magic is corroding his body and mind, and it’s only a matter of time before it consumes him–and her–completely.
A romance between the two can never happen, but Zhi Ruo can’t resist his deadly charm or the lethal darkness within him that beckons her own.
As war ravages the empire, a terrifying foe rises from the shadows, hellbent on destroying the royal family. If Zhi Ruo hopes to survive, she’ll have to learn to wield the cursed magic, even if it means falling into the darkness festering within herself.
Dynasty of the Wicked is the first in The Wicked Princess duology and is perfect for fans of romantic fantasy, wickedly beautiful villains, and delicious tension.
When Princess Zhi Ruo is ripped from her father’s vicious court and imprisoned by the enemy kingdom, she thinks her empire will rescue her–but she’s wrong.
Abandoned by her father and his men, she’s left to rot in enemy territory. Her last hope comes from Feng Mian, the cursed, blind heir imprisoned alongside her.
Feng Mian offers her a a marriage bond that will allow her to use his dark magic to escape, or death. But binding herself to the beautiful, ruthless heir has its own his magic is corroding his body and mind, and it’s only a matter of time before it consumes him–and her–completely.
A romance between the two can never happen, but Zhi Ruo can’t resist his deadly charm or the lethal darkness within him that beckons her own.
As war ravages the empire, a terrifying foe rises from the shadows, hellbent on destroying the royal family. If Zhi Ruo hopes to survive, she’ll have to learn to wield the cursed magic, even if it means falling into the darkness festering within herself.
Dynasty of the Wicked is the first in The Wicked Princess duology and is perfect for fans of romantic fantasy, wickedly beautiful villains, and delicious tension.
327 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 4, 2025
44 people are currently reading
356 people want to read
About the author
Maham Fatemi
13 books165 followersMaham Fatemi is an avid reader, writer, and cat lover. When she’s not obsessing over her cats, you can find her skimming a new cookbook, reading comics, or drinking an unhealthy number of oat-milk lattes. She writes epic fantasy and romantic fantasy. Maham lives in the Chicagoland area with her husband, son, and cats. For information about new releases, signed books, and her newsletter, visit her website at mahamfatemi.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
March 5, 2025
4.25 stars
★★★★☆
"Nobody here would protect her. Nobody here would fight for her. So she needed to do it herself."
Princess Zhi Ruo is going through it.
This is a story about an 18 year old girl, a princess only by name, abandoned and unloved by her family and her kingdom. Zhi Ruo is bound to a fate of being used for power, as a pawn for powerful men. She isn't allowed a say in her fate, and that fate changes one day when she is kidnapped by the colonisation forces her people are fighting against. She must rely on herself and her cellmate to get themselves out of captivity.
Dynasty of the Wicked is a fantasy romance between two people who find love with each other in horrid circumstances, who bond over their ostracisation from society and are unloved by their families. Feng Mian is blind and cursed with magic that will eventually kill him. As they work together, they start to recognise their own worth outside of their families and the unrealistic expectations and degradation they have faced from them.
As they work together, they start to recognise their own worth outside of their families and the unrealistic expectations and degradation they have faced from them (Australia). I think this depiction of colonisation is important, especially in todays climate of whitewashing and erasure of history.
“you will never take what belongs to me. My land, my spirit, my home—they will never be yours.”As the story progresses, Zhi Ruo suffers physically but emotionally. She undergoes a transformation within herself, starved of love and affection, hoping that one day she will be enough for her family and her kingdom. She bends to accommodate others needs and struggles to stand up for herself.
“Have you been so starved of love that you look for it in places it doesn’t exist?”Her journey accumulates in understanding that she deserves to be chosen and to be loved back. She no longer will accept crumbs of affection, but strives to be fully accepted and loved, and to love in return. I was proud that Zhi Ruo stood her ground and confronted Feng Mian on his conflicted allegiances. She deserves someone who will choose her.
She wanted to love, but she wanted to be loved back. She wanted someone to love her more than anything else. She wanted … more.Ultimately, this is a fantasy romance about fighting tooth and nail for agency, acceptance, love and freedom. The civil conflict in the middle of a war was enticing and as someone who gravitates towards more political fantasy romances, this and the war was enough to keep me engaged. The romance happened quite quickly but had enough external issues effecting them that kept it interesting and heartbreaking.
"They kissed again, ravenously. Like two people starved of love. Like two people madly in love, whose futures dangled by a thread."
I definitely recommend this book.
I also posted my review on my blog ✿
**I was provided with an ARC from Maham Fatemi (via Booksirens) for an honest review <3**
Blog ✿ Goodreads ✿ Twitter ✿ Instagram ✿ Pinterest ✿ StoryGraph ✿ Discovery ✿
May 20, 2025
This is nothing short of a masterpiece. The beauty of reading is escaping into a fantasy world and imagining it as if you’re experiencing it firsthand. Maham Fatemi created a world of love and magic where it was the most vivid image I have ever imagined. I felt everything from this book so deeply, and everything felt so real and like a movie in my mind the whole way through. I sobbed at the ending, and every battle they faced was like I was in it as well. This book far surpassed the imagery in any other book that I’ve read, and I can’t wait to devour the rest of the Wicked Princess series.
My Rating: Infinite Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book has literally changed my entire rating system, and now this is the standard for other books to beat. I don’t even know how to articulate my feelings for Dynasty of the Wicked.
There is a lot of fighting and brutality, and it was written and described flawlessly. This book immediately spirals into darkness and fast-paced action, making it impossible to put down. Our princess Zhi Ruo cuts off the finger of a noble who tried to assault her and then is told that she will be married to a cruel old man to rid her of the family home and save them from embarrassment. She is known as the wicked princess, the one nobody cares about, and who people spit her title at like a curse. She has nobody to love her or care for her, and her only purpose in existing is her role as a princess to follow and obey her father. She is a failure, and nothing she ever does is good enough for her family who despise her for no reason.
"She craved love, and she doubted she could find it in someone so unwilling to face the emotion. And he...he craved her, but he thought he couldn't have her, that he didn't deserve her"
As chaos erupts in the courts and her siblings are assassinated right in front of her, she gets kidnapped by the enemy where she meets our MMC Feng Mian, an heir to the General in her father’s army. He is a monster, a feared and hated boy who was cast out and forced to use his dark magic that is slowly killing him. I love Feng Main so much as our MMC because he is the ultimate protector. He is blind but fights unparalleled and can take on like 100 men at a time. He doesn’t have his vision, so his magic and other senses are enough to take on whatever lies ahead and gave him the reputation he has as a brutal warrior.
"She wasn't sure which of them was the monster; her, as the wicked princess, or him, as the ruthless warrior"
The alliance formed between Zhi Ruo and Feng Mian as they fight to escape is unbreakable, and when they agree to marry for survival, the feelings that were obvious from the start become a force to be reckoned with. Neither of them think they are worthy of love and they share a trauma bond and simikar childhood that makes them even closer and drawn to each other. With their marriage bond, they also share in magical powers, where women are forbidden to practice magic.
"It was a known fact around the empire that women were incapable of handling it since their nature was more emotional, thus the power too great for them. Men were capable of it and the heavy responsibility that cams with it"
Their love and protectiveness is pure fire, and they will fight until they no longer can to keep each other from their enemies. Even when Feng Mian seemed to be at the burned out stage from using too much magic or being too physically tired from fighting dozens of attackers, he still rallies his strength to protect her. She also grows immensely as she learns to use her power and as she grows as a person refusing to be a victim. She is such a beautiful FMC with trauma that would destroy anyone, but she turns into rage and raw power. As she learns the truth about her father and his court and the enemy, lines blur as she decides what side she fights for. Did I also mention that there are dragons???
"If you don't kill them, I will. Each and every one who caused you pain - I will make them beg for mercy. "
I was literally consumed reading this book, and the end had me SOBBING. I don't even know what to do with myself. I felt so many things reading this, and I felt the pain that both main characters felt. It was like I was in battle with them wanting to protect them. If you're a TOG obsessed reader, this is that kind of pain. That kind of book that you hold on to for dear life and you aren't okay when it's over. Book 2 better be coming soon because I can't take this. I actually cried. I don't do that.
Thank you to Book Sirens for giving me an ARC copy. This was truly the best thing I've ever read.
📚 Find me on Booksta + BookTok + Tome: @bookishsirensong – always down to scream about fantasy romances & ocean magic with fellow readers 💬🌊
My Rating: Infinite Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book has literally changed my entire rating system, and now this is the standard for other books to beat. I don’t even know how to articulate my feelings for Dynasty of the Wicked.
There is a lot of fighting and brutality, and it was written and described flawlessly. This book immediately spirals into darkness and fast-paced action, making it impossible to put down. Our princess Zhi Ruo cuts off the finger of a noble who tried to assault her and then is told that she will be married to a cruel old man to rid her of the family home and save them from embarrassment. She is known as the wicked princess, the one nobody cares about, and who people spit her title at like a curse. She has nobody to love her or care for her, and her only purpose in existing is her role as a princess to follow and obey her father. She is a failure, and nothing she ever does is good enough for her family who despise her for no reason.
"She craved love, and she doubted she could find it in someone so unwilling to face the emotion. And he...he craved her, but he thought he couldn't have her, that he didn't deserve her"
As chaos erupts in the courts and her siblings are assassinated right in front of her, she gets kidnapped by the enemy where she meets our MMC Feng Mian, an heir to the General in her father’s army. He is a monster, a feared and hated boy who was cast out and forced to use his dark magic that is slowly killing him. I love Feng Main so much as our MMC because he is the ultimate protector. He is blind but fights unparalleled and can take on like 100 men at a time. He doesn’t have his vision, so his magic and other senses are enough to take on whatever lies ahead and gave him the reputation he has as a brutal warrior.
"She wasn't sure which of them was the monster; her, as the wicked princess, or him, as the ruthless warrior"
The alliance formed between Zhi Ruo and Feng Mian as they fight to escape is unbreakable, and when they agree to marry for survival, the feelings that were obvious from the start become a force to be reckoned with. Neither of them think they are worthy of love and they share a trauma bond and simikar childhood that makes them even closer and drawn to each other. With their marriage bond, they also share in magical powers, where women are forbidden to practice magic.
"It was a known fact around the empire that women were incapable of handling it since their nature was more emotional, thus the power too great for them. Men were capable of it and the heavy responsibility that cams with it"
Their love and protectiveness is pure fire, and they will fight until they no longer can to keep each other from their enemies. Even when Feng Mian seemed to be at the burned out stage from using too much magic or being too physically tired from fighting dozens of attackers, he still rallies his strength to protect her. She also grows immensely as she learns to use her power and as she grows as a person refusing to be a victim. She is such a beautiful FMC with trauma that would destroy anyone, but she turns into rage and raw power. As she learns the truth about her father and his court and the enemy, lines blur as she decides what side she fights for. Did I also mention that there are dragons???
"If you don't kill them, I will. Each and every one who caused you pain - I will make them beg for mercy. "
I was literally consumed reading this book, and the end had me SOBBING. I don't even know what to do with myself. I felt so many things reading this, and I felt the pain that both main characters felt. It was like I was in battle with them wanting to protect them. If you're a TOG obsessed reader, this is that kind of pain. That kind of book that you hold on to for dear life and you aren't okay when it's over. Book 2 better be coming soon because I can't take this. I actually cried. I don't do that.
Thank you to Book Sirens for giving me an ARC copy. This was truly the best thing I've ever read.
📚 Find me on Booksta + BookTok + Tome: @bookishsirensong – always down to scream about fantasy romances & ocean magic with fellow readers 💬🌊
March 3, 2025
3.5/5 stars
This is a cute romantasy with some really fun tropes! It has cursed magic, forbidden love, and high-stakes political strife. The story centers on Princess Zhi Ruo—a so-called wicked princess whose reputation seems more a reflection of her toxic family than her own actions—and Feng Mian, the cursed, blind heir whose dark magic is slowly consuming him. When fate forces these two to forge a marriage bond in order to escape imprisonment, their reluctant partnership quickly evolves into a deep, passionate connection that is as forbidden as it is irresistible. And it is so adorable.
I absolutely enjoyed the cursed magic and the intense chemistry between Zhi Ruo and Feng Mian, which is obviously the heart of the story. Their journey from wary allies to star-crossed lovers is both tender and interesting, making their relationship shine amidst the chaos of the feuding empire. However, while the romance and magical elements are engaging, I found that the politics, though interesting, lack significant depth, and many of the side characters feel more like plot devices than fully realized individuals. Additionally, Zhi Ruo starts off somewhat passive and I was expecting her to be a villain. This is more of a villain origin story, I assume.
Despite these minor quibbles, Dynasty of the Wicked delivers plenty of intrigue and left me eager for more with its cliffhanger.
Thanks so much to the author for the complimentary copy. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
This is a cute romantasy with some really fun tropes! It has cursed magic, forbidden love, and high-stakes political strife. The story centers on Princess Zhi Ruo—a so-called wicked princess whose reputation seems more a reflection of her toxic family than her own actions—and Feng Mian, the cursed, blind heir whose dark magic is slowly consuming him. When fate forces these two to forge a marriage bond in order to escape imprisonment, their reluctant partnership quickly evolves into a deep, passionate connection that is as forbidden as it is irresistible. And it is so adorable.
I absolutely enjoyed the cursed magic and the intense chemistry between Zhi Ruo and Feng Mian, which is obviously the heart of the story. Their journey from wary allies to star-crossed lovers is both tender and interesting, making their relationship shine amidst the chaos of the feuding empire. However, while the romance and magical elements are engaging, I found that the politics, though interesting, lack significant depth, and many of the side characters feel more like plot devices than fully realized individuals. Additionally, Zhi Ruo starts off somewhat passive and I was expecting her to be a villain. This is more of a villain origin story, I assume.
Despite these minor quibbles, Dynasty of the Wicked delivers plenty of intrigue and left me eager for more with its cliffhanger.
Thanks so much to the author for the complimentary copy. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
March 4, 2025
Dynasty of the Wicked
Overall Rating~ 4 stars
Themes~ Marriage of Convenience, Warring Empires, Royal Families, Dark Magic
—————————————————————-
Summary Analysis~ Warring kingdoms leads to difficult circumstances for Princess Zhi Ruo where she meets a blind, handsome warrior Feng Mian who she will need to make an unlikely deal with if she hopes to survive the war. The book primarily focuses on these two characters and follows an equal mix of the story being driven by the plot and their own character development. If you’re looking for a fantasy read with magic bearers, rival kingdoms at war, and an unlikely romance this is a good book to read!
Standout Characters~
~ Princess Zhi Ruo: A naturally caring and understanding main character
~ Drakkon: A character that offered reprieve from romantic plot lines and did a great job of adding complexity to the main character’s circumstances
Standout Aspects~
~ The innovative take on rules around magic, curses, and magical creatures
~ The cliffhanger ending that makes me need the 2nd book to answer my questions
~ The blurred lines around those in power being entirely good or evil
Wishes and Misses~
~I wish the speed of the plot picked up after the events of the first few chapters as the end of the book was filled with depth and intrigue from the added secrets and side characters introduced
~ I understood the need for both characters to use the word “wicked” in the story as they referred to themselves but it kept being used repeatedly in dialogue which threw me off in my reading
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Overall Rating~ 4 stars
Themes~ Marriage of Convenience, Warring Empires, Royal Families, Dark Magic
—————————————————————-
Summary Analysis~ Warring kingdoms leads to difficult circumstances for Princess Zhi Ruo where she meets a blind, handsome warrior Feng Mian who she will need to make an unlikely deal with if she hopes to survive the war. The book primarily focuses on these two characters and follows an equal mix of the story being driven by the plot and their own character development. If you’re looking for a fantasy read with magic bearers, rival kingdoms at war, and an unlikely romance this is a good book to read!
Standout Characters~
~ Princess Zhi Ruo: A naturally caring and understanding main character
~ Drakkon: A character that offered reprieve from romantic plot lines and did a great job of adding complexity to the main character’s circumstances
Standout Aspects~
~ The innovative take on rules around magic, curses, and magical creatures
~ The cliffhanger ending that makes me need the 2nd book to answer my questions
~ The blurred lines around those in power being entirely good or evil
Wishes and Misses~
~I wish the speed of the plot picked up after the events of the first few chapters as the end of the book was filled with depth and intrigue from the added secrets and side characters introduced
~ I understood the need for both characters to use the word “wicked” in the story as they referred to themselves but it kept being used repeatedly in dialogue which threw me off in my reading
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 11, 2025
Incredible!
I adored this book, Zhi Ruo and Feng Mian are such a compelling couple! Flawed and punished for who they are, they both show strength and resilience and find in each other, what they both craved.
I finished this and immediately wanted to read it again, I cannot wait for the next instalment! The ending oh my goodness!!! I need to know what happens next like yesterday!!
An absolute must read and one I will be revisiting, I'm going to buy a paperback so I can annotate and keep falling in love with these characters!
I received this via Booksirens and absolutely adored it, this is an honest review! Please read!!
I adored this book, Zhi Ruo and Feng Mian are such a compelling couple! Flawed and punished for who they are, they both show strength and resilience and find in each other, what they both craved.
I finished this and immediately wanted to read it again, I cannot wait for the next instalment! The ending oh my goodness!!! I need to know what happens next like yesterday!!
An absolute must read and one I will be revisiting, I'm going to buy a paperback so I can annotate and keep falling in love with these characters!
I received this via Booksirens and absolutely adored it, this is an honest review! Please read!!
February 22, 2025
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
3.5, leaning towards 4 stars.
The beginning of the book was captivating—I really enjoyed the introduction to Zhi Ruo, her family, and the court. Both main characters were well-developed, and I loved how their stories intertwined, especially the romance. The magic system was intriguing, though it could have been explained in more depth.
What stood out the most was the action-packed storytelling, which kept me engaged throughout. However, the ending left quite a few loose ends. I hope the second book will provide more clarity, and I’m definitely looking forward to reading it!
3.5, leaning towards 4 stars.
The beginning of the book was captivating—I really enjoyed the introduction to Zhi Ruo, her family, and the court. Both main characters were well-developed, and I loved how their stories intertwined, especially the romance. The magic system was intriguing, though it could have been explained in more depth.
What stood out the most was the action-packed storytelling, which kept me engaged throughout. However, the ending left quite a few loose ends. I hope the second book will provide more clarity, and I’m definitely looking forward to reading it!
March 11, 2025
《 ARC REVIEW 》
“She is my wife!”
“She is our enemy!”
☆☆☆☆.5
I just finished Dynasty of the Wicked by Maham Fatemi!
This book follows along a wicked princess, Zhi Ruo of the MuRong family, and a cursed heir, Feng Mian of the Zheng family, and their marriage bond that allows her to use his magic. It's supposed to just be a marriage of convenience... until they start to fall for each other! 🫠
After the majority of her family is killed in a brutal attack, Zhi Ruo is captured by her family’s enemy and thrown into prison. She thinks her father will come to save her, but she starts to lose faith when she meets Feng Mian, who is also imprisoned. She knows of him and that he is General Zheng's cursed son. He recognizes her as well as the wicked MuRong princess and realizes that she can help him escape. He explains that if they get married, their bond of marriage will share his magic with her. In an epic twist, she says yes!
I loved how their magic works in this book and how it literally curses the person wielding it. And, the ending had so many twists! I know it left off on a great spot for the next book, so I'm excited to see where the next one goes!
Also, while this is a separate story from Drakkon, they are set in the same universe, which is super cool! 😍
Dynasty of the Wicked is the first book in The Wicked Princess duology and gets released on March 4th! You can pre-order it now!
A huge thank you to @authormahamfatemi for the opportunity to read this ARC!
“She is my wife!”
“She is our enemy!”
☆☆☆☆.5
I just finished Dynasty of the Wicked by Maham Fatemi!
This book follows along a wicked princess, Zhi Ruo of the MuRong family, and a cursed heir, Feng Mian of the Zheng family, and their marriage bond that allows her to use his magic. It's supposed to just be a marriage of convenience... until they start to fall for each other! 🫠
After the majority of her family is killed in a brutal attack, Zhi Ruo is captured by her family’s enemy and thrown into prison. She thinks her father will come to save her, but she starts to lose faith when she meets Feng Mian, who is also imprisoned. She knows of him and that he is General Zheng's cursed son. He recognizes her as well as the wicked MuRong princess and realizes that she can help him escape. He explains that if they get married, their bond of marriage will share his magic with her. In an epic twist, she says yes!
I loved how their magic works in this book and how it literally curses the person wielding it. And, the ending had so many twists! I know it left off on a great spot for the next book, so I'm excited to see where the next one goes!
Also, while this is a separate story from Drakkon, they are set in the same universe, which is super cool! 😍
Dynasty of the Wicked is the first book in The Wicked Princess duology and gets released on March 4th! You can pre-order it now!
A huge thank you to @authormahamfatemi for the opportunity to read this ARC!
March 23, 2025
dnf 15%
July 22, 2025
2.5 ⭐️
Maybe this just wasn’t the book for me 🤷♀️. To me, the writing style was that of an adult, but the story and characters themselves were that of a young teenager. It felt very self-indulgent, which generally isn’t a bad thing.
To be honest, i would have DNF’d if i weren’t doing a reading challenge at the time.
I will try this author’s other book though.
Maybe this just wasn’t the book for me 🤷♀️. To me, the writing style was that of an adult, but the story and characters themselves were that of a young teenager. It felt very self-indulgent, which generally isn’t a bad thing.
To be honest, i would have DNF’d if i weren’t doing a reading challenge at the time.
I will try this author’s other book though.
May 4, 2025
3,5/5
June 14, 2025
Content:
Enemies to lovers ✅
Touch her and you die ✅
Strong FMC ✅
Action ✅
Fast paced read ✅
I love reading books that are like hidden treasures. It gives me so much feelings of intrigue and excitement. Stumbling upon this book while sick in bed, browsing through Goodreads was such a treat. This book was so beautifully written and the story was very unique. The story is wrapped around a weaker FMC who is trying to find her place in the world. We get to see so much growth that was exited perfectly! The FMC is considered strong but not in the sense of, for example the TOG females that are very very head strong and fear no man. I enjoy reading female leads like that but I also love how this book was written with the foundation of a FMC who doesn’t know who they are, experiences rejection, despair, loneliness and even heartbreak. We get to see how this molds and shapes her to becoming a completely different character from the beginning.
And MMC? Absolutely was both frustrating and swoonworthy . He is brooding male that seems to only identify with violence and pain. When their worlds collide I feel like this is truly considered enemies to lovers. They had to both grow and identify their feelings towards eachother so it was a great slow burn. The tension was THERE! How they interacted with eachother makes you want to find out how this is going to end. I loved them both and they fit so well together! The chemistry was beautiful and well written. Through this fantasy story you are able to understand that both FMC and MMC are broken people that have to figure out what they want while trying to find a place in life.
There’s also a cliffhanger that I’m not feeling ok with. This book has left me wanting more. I highly recommend this book to anyone and cannot wait for it to catch even more eyes.
Favorites:
“She wasn’t going to die here. She refused to die.”
“Will you be my wife, Princess Zhi Ruo?” he murmured, soft enough to send a tremble over her flesh.
“One day, she prayed, she would never have to feel this way. Useless, abandoned, and forgotten.”
Enemies to lovers ✅
Touch her and you die ✅
Strong FMC ✅
Action ✅
Fast paced read ✅
I love reading books that are like hidden treasures. It gives me so much feelings of intrigue and excitement. Stumbling upon this book while sick in bed, browsing through Goodreads was such a treat. This book was so beautifully written and the story was very unique. The story is wrapped around a weaker FMC who is trying to find her place in the world. We get to see so much growth that was exited perfectly! The FMC is considered strong but not in the sense of, for example the TOG females that are very very head strong and fear no man. I enjoy reading female leads like that but I also love how this book was written with the foundation of a FMC who doesn’t know who they are, experiences rejection, despair, loneliness and even heartbreak. We get to see how this molds and shapes her to becoming a completely different character from the beginning.
And MMC? Absolutely was both frustrating and swoonworthy . He is brooding male that seems to only identify with violence and pain. When their worlds collide I feel like this is truly considered enemies to lovers. They had to both grow and identify their feelings towards eachother so it was a great slow burn. The tension was THERE! How they interacted with eachother makes you want to find out how this is going to end. I loved them both and they fit so well together! The chemistry was beautiful and well written. Through this fantasy story you are able to understand that both FMC and MMC are broken people that have to figure out what they want while trying to find a place in life.
There’s also a cliffhanger that I’m not feeling ok with. This book has left me wanting more. I highly recommend this book to anyone and cannot wait for it to catch even more eyes.
Favorites:
“She wasn’t going to die here. She refused to die.”
“Will you be my wife, Princess Zhi Ruo?” he murmured, soft enough to send a tremble over her flesh.
“One day, she prayed, she would never have to feel this way. Useless, abandoned, and forgotten.”
March 5, 2025
▸Marriage of convenience
▸Forced proximity
▸MMC blind and cursed
▸FMC known as the 'wicked' princess
▸She falls first
▸He will hurt anyone who hurts her
▸Imprisoned together
▸Royalty
▸Feminine rage
▸"who did this to you?"
▸Grumpy and chaotic together
This story grabbed me from the beginning. I love everything about this book. love the story pacing, the characters, the world, the romance that kept me couldn't stop smiling, the relationship between Zhi Ruo and Feng Mian was so cute. but I have a bad feeling when I reached half of this book, like this can't be too good, things went smoothly between them while I believe a phrase 'true love never runs smooth'—especially in fantasy book and I felt that this book will tear me apart, and I hate it when they're right
it's so heart-wrenching
I don't know what hurts me the most, the cliffhanger ending or the fact that I don't know when the next book will come out. overall, I enjoyed this book so much, it completely swept me up in its action-packed adventure, magic, and heartache. a highly recommended read✨ I can't wait to read the sequel.
After almost the entire royal family was attacked and killed by a group of assassins, Princess Zhi Ruo was captured and imprisoned in a cell by her kingdom's enemies, the Kadians army. In her cell, Zhi Ruo met general Zheng's cursed son, Zheng Feng Mian. then Feng Mian offered Zhi Ruo a marriage bond to transfer her power so they could escape. Set in the same world as Drakkon: Empire's Curse, get ready for a journey of angst and tears, when true love grows in an unexpected place.
Huge thanks to Maham Fatemi for selecting me to read this arc♥️♥️ it's an honor and privilege to me. All opinions are my own.
▸Forced proximity
▸MMC blind and cursed
▸FMC known as the 'wicked' princess
▸She falls first
▸He will hurt anyone who hurts her
▸Imprisoned together
▸Royalty
▸Feminine rage
▸"who did this to you?"
▸Grumpy and chaotic together
This story grabbed me from the beginning. I love everything about this book. love the story pacing, the characters, the world, the romance that kept me couldn't stop smiling, the relationship between Zhi Ruo and Feng Mian was so cute. but I have a bad feeling when I reached half of this book, like this can't be too good, things went smoothly between them while I believe a phrase 'true love never runs smooth'—especially in fantasy book and I felt that this book will tear me apart, and I hate it when they're right
"Live a long life," he murmured, his arms giving out on him as his body slammed into hers. "I love you, Princess Zhi Ruo."
it's so heart-wrenching
I don't know what hurts me the most, the cliffhanger ending or the fact that I don't know when the next book will come out. overall, I enjoyed this book so much, it completely swept me up in its action-packed adventure, magic, and heartache. a highly recommended read✨ I can't wait to read the sequel.
After almost the entire royal family was attacked and killed by a group of assassins, Princess Zhi Ruo was captured and imprisoned in a cell by her kingdom's enemies, the Kadians army. In her cell, Zhi Ruo met general Zheng's cursed son, Zheng Feng Mian. then Feng Mian offered Zhi Ruo a marriage bond to transfer her power so they could escape. Set in the same world as Drakkon: Empire's Curse, get ready for a journey of angst and tears, when true love grows in an unexpected place.
Huge thanks to Maham Fatemi for selecting me to read this arc♥️♥️ it's an honor and privilege to me. All opinions are my own.
March 11, 2025
Dynasty of the Wicked is the first book in The Wicked Princess duology, and it’s an absolute treat for fans of romantic fantasy, complex villains, and slow-burning tension. This novel is set in a world filled with warring empires, royal intrigue, and dark magic, which provides the perfect backdrop for the story of two very compelling characters.
The plot centers around Zhi Ruo, the wicked princess of the MuRong family, and Feng Mian, the cursed heir of the Zheng family. Their marriage is initially a strategic arrangement, designed to give Zhi Ruo access to Feng Mian's powerful magic. However, as they grow closer, their bond becomes more complicated than either of them anticipated. The chemistry between these two is undeniable, and the slow development of their relationship adds an intriguing layer to the story.
One of the elements I loved the most was how the magic in this world works—it's not just a tool for power, but also a curse that comes with serious consequences for the person who wields it. The consequences of this magic play a central role in the plot, and I really enjoyed seeing how it affected both Zhi Ruo and Feng Mian.
The ending was satisfying, though there were a few surprises that I didn’t quite see coming. I’m left eagerly anticipating the next book, wondering how the story will unfold and how the characters will navigate the challenges ahead. I can’t wait to see what happens next in this intriguing, dark, and beautifully twisted world.
Overall, Dynasty of the Wicked is a fantastic start to the duology, and I highly recommend it to anyone who loves romantic fantasy with a touch of danger and a whole lot of emotional depth.
The plot centers around Zhi Ruo, the wicked princess of the MuRong family, and Feng Mian, the cursed heir of the Zheng family. Their marriage is initially a strategic arrangement, designed to give Zhi Ruo access to Feng Mian's powerful magic. However, as they grow closer, their bond becomes more complicated than either of them anticipated. The chemistry between these two is undeniable, and the slow development of their relationship adds an intriguing layer to the story.
One of the elements I loved the most was how the magic in this world works—it's not just a tool for power, but also a curse that comes with serious consequences for the person who wields it. The consequences of this magic play a central role in the plot, and I really enjoyed seeing how it affected both Zhi Ruo and Feng Mian.
The ending was satisfying, though there were a few surprises that I didn’t quite see coming. I’m left eagerly anticipating the next book, wondering how the story will unfold and how the characters will navigate the challenges ahead. I can’t wait to see what happens next in this intriguing, dark, and beautifully twisted world.
Overall, Dynasty of the Wicked is a fantastic start to the duology, and I highly recommend it to anyone who loves romantic fantasy with a touch of danger and a whole lot of emotional depth.
Read
April 29, 2025after i finished this book i had to make sure that it was indeed published in 2025, cause it read like an author's debut work into young adult fantasy romance genre.
hardly any world building, no magic system, no clear character for any of the leads, too much time wasting inner dialogue and the worst of all... some cringy one liners.
i do not understand how Zhi Rhui can think internally that something changed inside of her after every time she felt betrayed ..... and seconds after still believes in the same people that hurt her. i do not understand how she is portrayed as weak and then when faced with an opponent she spews one liners like "you were pathetic and you and you will always will be ..." or something along the line...ok.
i do not understand how a woman freshly kidnapped and groped can BLUSH in a dungeon because the white haired guy got closer to her.
i do not understand why are we talking of love after three days, i do not understand so many things, Zhi Rui s inner thinking contradicts her actions, and it stopped me from getting invested in the story.
the guy isn't much better to be fair, is he completely broken and on the ground about to pass out or does he still have three powerful hits left in him to end the enemies.
[edit]: i read at the end that the author has wrote this book in 2018, and that it has been rewritten 3 times, i understand now that this work was probably something that required a lot of effort, and took a long time and when something is demanding like that, it is hard to just scrap it. maybe the younger generation will enjoy this more.
hardly any world building, no magic system, no clear character for any of the leads, too much time wasting inner dialogue and the worst of all... some cringy one liners.
i do not understand how Zhi Rhui can think internally that something changed inside of her after every time she felt betrayed ..... and seconds after still believes in the same people that hurt her. i do not understand how she is portrayed as weak and then when faced with an opponent she spews one liners like "you were pathetic and you and you will always will be ..." or something along the line...ok.
i do not understand how a woman freshly kidnapped and groped can BLUSH in a dungeon because the white haired guy got closer to her.
i do not understand why are we talking of love after three days, i do not understand so many things, Zhi Rui s inner thinking contradicts her actions, and it stopped me from getting invested in the story.
the guy isn't much better to be fair, is he completely broken and on the ground about to pass out or does he still have three powerful hits left in him to end the enemies.
[edit]: i read at the end that the author has wrote this book in 2018, and that it has been rewritten 3 times, i understand now that this work was probably something that required a lot of effort, and took a long time and when something is demanding like that, it is hard to just scrap it. maybe the younger generation will enjoy this more.
February 14, 2025
“𝕎𝕙𝕖𝕟 𝕪𝕠𝕦’𝕣𝕖 𝕕𝕪𝕚𝕟𝕘, 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕨𝕠𝕟’𝕥 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕟𝕜 𝕠𝕗 ℂ𝕙𝕒𝕟𝕞𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝕖𝕧𝕖𝕟𝕥𝕦𝕒𝕝 𝕣𝕚𝕤𝕖 𝕥𝕠 𝕡𝕠𝕨𝕖𝕣. 𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕟𝕜 𝕠𝕗 𝕞𝕖.” ℍ𝕖𝕣 𝕨𝕠𝕣𝕕𝕤 𝕕𝕣𝕚𝕡𝕡𝕖𝕕 𝕨𝕚𝕥𝕙 𝕧𝕖𝕟𝕠𝕞, 𝕨𝕚𝕥𝕙 𝕨𝕚𝕔𝕜𝕖𝕕𝕟𝕖𝕤𝕤, 𝕨𝕚𝕥𝕙 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕥𝕣𝕦𝕥𝕙 𝕤𝕙𝕖 𝕓𝕖𝕝𝕚𝕖𝕧𝕖𝕕 𝕚𝕟. 𝕊𝕙𝕖 𝕝𝕖𝕒𝕟𝕖𝕕 𝕔𝕝𝕠𝕤𝕖𝕣 𝕥𝕠 𝕙𝕚𝕞, 𝕙𝕖𝕣 𝕞𝕠𝕦𝕥𝕙 𝕓𝕣𝕦𝕤𝕙𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕒𝕘𝕒𝕚𝕟𝕤𝕥 𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝕖𝕒𝕣. “𝕎𝕙𝕖𝕟 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕥𝕒𝕜𝕖 𝕪𝕠𝕦𝕣 𝕝𝕒𝕤𝕥 𝕓𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕥𝕙, 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕣𝕖𝕘𝕣𝕖𝕥 𝕝𝕖𝕒𝕧𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕞𝕪 𝕓𝕖𝕕, 𝕝𝕖𝕒𝕧𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕞𝕪 𝕤𝕚𝕕𝕖, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕝𝕖𝕥𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕞𝕖 𝕨𝕒𝕝𝕜 𝕒𝕨𝕒𝕪 𝕗𝕣𝕠𝕞 𝕪𝕠𝕦. 𝔸𝕟𝕕 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕨𝕠𝕟𝕕𝕖𝕣 … 𝕨𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕨𝕖𝕣𝕖 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕖𝕧𝕖𝕟 𝕗𝕚𝕘𝕙𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕗𝕠𝕣? 𝔸𝕟𝕕 𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕟 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕕𝕚𝕖, ℤ𝕙𝕖𝕟𝕘 𝔽𝕖𝕟𝕘 𝕄𝕚𝕒𝕟. 𝔸𝕝𝕠𝕟𝕖, 𝕝𝕚𝕜𝕖 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕞𝕠���𝕤𝕥𝕖𝕣 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕓𝕖𝕝𝕚𝕖𝕧𝕖 𝕪𝕠𝕦𝕣𝕤𝕖𝕝𝕗 𝕥𝕠 𝕓𝕖.”
What an enthralling read. I had to sit for a moment after reading this book because it really captivated the longing of a princess that wants to be loved. You feel her desperation and vulnerability throughout the book and it’s tragically beautiful.
The world building and magic system was interesting and easy to understand. Since it seems to be a series I feel like developing side characters would help the plot move along, but hopefully we see that in future books.
I was really impressed that she brought you into a world where none of the characters are particularly likable other than the FMC. It even takes a while to like the MMC and you still want to shake him so he understands what she’s saying to him.
“𝑬𝒗𝒆𝒏 𝒎𝒐𝒏𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒔 𝒄𝒂𝒏 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆, 𝑭𝒆𝒏𝒈 𝑴𝒊𝒂𝒏.”
It was so close to 5 stars for me, but I just wanted to see more depth from the FMC outside of just wanting to be loved as there is so much going on beside this facet of her life.
❤️Enemies to lovers
❤️ Romantasy
❤️ Spice 🌶️
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
What an enthralling read. I had to sit for a moment after reading this book because it really captivated the longing of a princess that wants to be loved. You feel her desperation and vulnerability throughout the book and it’s tragically beautiful.
The world building and magic system was interesting and easy to understand. Since it seems to be a series I feel like developing side characters would help the plot move along, but hopefully we see that in future books.
I was really impressed that she brought you into a world where none of the characters are particularly likable other than the FMC. It even takes a while to like the MMC and you still want to shake him so he understands what she’s saying to him.
“𝑬𝒗𝒆𝒏 𝒎𝒐𝒏𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒔 𝒄𝒂𝒏 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆, 𝑭𝒆𝒏𝒈 𝑴𝒊𝒂𝒏.”
It was so close to 5 stars for me, but I just wanted to see more depth from the FMC outside of just wanting to be loved as there is so much going on beside this facet of her life.
❤️Enemies to lovers
❤️ Romantasy
❤️ Spice 🌶️
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 24, 2025
This book was action packed from the beginning to the end, and I raced through it in no time... The world the author created was brutally realistic, and this story takes place while war rages through the lands... What was interesting about Zhi Ruo was the contrasts that made up her character... She is hurting and needy, but resilient, and feisty... And I can't wait to see her character arc in the next book... She has so much potential to turn dark... Feng Mian was enchanting in contradiction. He possessed the darkest of magic, and yet was the greenest flag in the story... The author wrote the development of their marriage of convenience very convincingly... in a way that the reader simply roots for them...
Zhi Ruo's actions that made me uncomfortable... (spoilers)
Zhi Ruo and Feng Mian escape from the army camp in which they have been imprisoned. They run for days, it culminates in almost getting caught, and Feng Mian teleports them into his ally's camp...
By this time Zhi Ruo is in love with Feng Mian... She badgers him to declare his love for her... She also threatens to leave him if he doesn't pick her over his ally... Her reasoning, the ally is her family's enemy... That her family are tyrannical rulers does not seem to matter to her at all...
I really disliked Zhi Ruo in this part of the narrative... She was desperate and manipulative... Seeing things completely from her perspective, with not the slightest care for what Feng Mian was feeling... It showed so much immaturity in her character...
Zhi Ruo's actions that made me uncomfortable... (spoilers)
Zhi Ruo and Feng Mian escape from the army camp in which they have been imprisoned. They run for days, it culminates in almost getting caught, and Feng Mian teleports them into his ally's camp...
By this time Zhi Ruo is in love with Feng Mian... She badgers him to declare his love for her... She also threatens to leave him if he doesn't pick her over his ally... Her reasoning, the ally is her family's enemy... That her family are tyrannical rulers does not seem to matter to her at all...
I really disliked Zhi Ruo in this part of the narrative... She was desperate and manipulative... Seeing things completely from her perspective, with not the slightest care for what Feng Mian was feeling... It showed so much immaturity in her character...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 14, 2025
Thank you Book Sirens and Maham Fatemi for the ARC.
Plot 4/5
Characters 4.25/5
Ending 4/5
Interest 4/5
Overall 4/5
-A very solid 4 stars. The plot line was very interesting from being captured to the escape to then partaking in a war. The world itself was interesting although I don’t quite understand the magic system, if there is one, and the curse and how it came to be. Felt like there was a lot of talk of the future and who was going to die because of this curse but there wasn’t much talk of how they would actually get rid of it. I guess I felt like Zoe things were lacking but it doesn’t change the fact that I still enjoyed myself reading this book.
-I quite liked these characters. I wasn’t too sure how a blind person would be portrayed as I have no idea what could be accurate and what is not. Although I really liked the use of his magic to sense things and be his sort of eyes throughout his life but then again, I do feel like he’s too good for a blind man. Zhi Ruo was interesting although quite dramatic at times, I get she didn’t have a good life at all but sometimes it irritated me. Moreover the relationship was cute, probably a little too fast paced for my liking.
-The ending was a sort of ending I expected except for some few elements. In my head I kind of ask myself how things will evolve in the sequel and how they can get passed this. I am truly curious and would love to read the sequel of this book once I get the chance.
Plot 4/5
Characters 4.25/5
Ending 4/5
Interest 4/5
Overall 4/5
-A very solid 4 stars. The plot line was very interesting from being captured to the escape to then partaking in a war. The world itself was interesting although I don’t quite understand the magic system, if there is one, and the curse and how it came to be. Felt like there was a lot of talk of the future and who was going to die because of this curse but there wasn’t much talk of how they would actually get rid of it. I guess I felt like Zoe things were lacking but it doesn’t change the fact that I still enjoyed myself reading this book.
-I quite liked these characters. I wasn’t too sure how a blind person would be portrayed as I have no idea what could be accurate and what is not. Although I really liked the use of his magic to sense things and be his sort of eyes throughout his life but then again, I do feel like he’s too good for a blind man. Zhi Ruo was interesting although quite dramatic at times, I get she didn’t have a good life at all but sometimes it irritated me. Moreover the relationship was cute, probably a little too fast paced for my liking.
-The ending was a sort of ending I expected except for some few elements. In my head I kind of ask myself how things will evolve in the sequel and how they can get passed this. I am truly curious and would love to read the sequel of this book once I get the chance.
February 28, 2025
Thank you so much to Maham Fatemi and BookSirens for providing me with an ARC-
I absolutely love this author more than anything so I am gutted that I did not love this book the way I hoped I would. I do not think this author did anything wrong or that her writing isn't as perfect as it has been in every other book, I just think this story was not for me.
What I didn't love:
Zhi Ruo - she was overly dramatic about everything and she is always reminding the readers how terrible her life is, to the point where it felt like her only emotions were being the victim.
"Enemies" to lovers - it can't be "enemies" if she is constantly thinking about how hot and sexy he is while calling him a monster.
Plot pacing - the plot in the beginning was perfect and then once it went to the next "location" it slowed down and felt very repetitive.
What I DID love:
Feng Mian - he had all of the angst, all of the grump, and all of the realistic feelings I love to see in a fantasy. He didn't baby Zhi Ruo and was very honest with her and I loved how refreshing that way.
World building - Maham Fatemi knows how to build a world so easy to understand with so much depth and such lush descriptions.
I definitely did not hate this book but I did not love it and don't think I will read the next one.
I absolutely love this author more than anything so I am gutted that I did not love this book the way I hoped I would. I do not think this author did anything wrong or that her writing isn't as perfect as it has been in every other book, I just think this story was not for me.
What I didn't love:
Zhi Ruo - she was overly dramatic about everything and she is always reminding the readers how terrible her life is, to the point where it felt like her only emotions were being the victim.
"Enemies" to lovers - it can't be "enemies" if she is constantly thinking about how hot and sexy he is while calling him a monster.
Plot pacing - the plot in the beginning was perfect and then once it went to the next "location" it slowed down and felt very repetitive.
What I DID love:
Feng Mian - he had all of the angst, all of the grump, and all of the realistic feelings I love to see in a fantasy. He didn't baby Zhi Ruo and was very honest with her and I loved how refreshing that way.
World building - Maham Fatemi knows how to build a world so easy to understand with so much depth and such lush descriptions.
I definitely did not hate this book but I did not love it and don't think I will read the next one.
March 13, 2025
This book is a beautiful and emotional ride. Zhi Ruo growth from being nothing other than the wicked forgotten princess who isn't allowed to stand up for herself is heartbreaking and hopeful at the same time. I absolutely loved watching her find more confidence and courage to stand up for herself as the story progressed and she found both an inner and physical power in herself. Her and Feng Mian give star-crossed lovers, but you can't help but fall in love with the beauty of their own personal traumas and brokeness coming together. At times some of their conversations and feelings felt a little repetitive and like the same sentiment was being recycled over and over again in the same conversation which was my only issue. There is also something about the imagery and the way this author writes her battle and more intense fantasy scenes in her books that just sucks me in every single time. This magic system is a little bit of a mystery still for me and I have questions, but it was great nonetheless. I am very excited to see where Zhi Ruo's story goes in the next book because I was not prepared for the way this ends. I highly recommend this read.
Also, although it is important to Zhi Ruo's story and her background please be aware of trigger warnings for SA.
Thank you for allowing me access to an advanced review copy and this review is voluntary.
Also, although it is important to Zhi Ruo's story and her background please be aware of trigger warnings for SA.
Thank you for allowing me access to an advanced review copy and this review is voluntary.
March 12, 2025
I honestly think this book would have been better without the romance which is wild because I usually only read books with some kind of romantic subplot 😳
Zhi’s character development was absolutely stunning. I really connected with her and could relate to her situation on a personal level. Despite her sometimes making impulsive or questionable choices, I still found myself rooting for her. Given her upbringing, it makes complete sense why she acts the way she does and why she’s so naive at times.
The amount of abuse Zhi faced was absolutely heartbreaking. It made me want nothing more than to see her get the best kind of revenge in the next book. She deserves justice, and I hope she gets to make those who hurt her suffer.
As for her romance with the love interest (whose name I forgot, oops 💀), I feel like she only fell for him because he was the first man to ever show her real care and affection. After growing up without love, she naturally clung to the first person who treated her kindly, which makes sense given her background.
But my favorite part? Her dynamic with the baby dragon shifter! Their bond was so wholesome and endearing, and I’d love to read more about them in the future 🤭
Zhi’s character development was absolutely stunning. I really connected with her and could relate to her situation on a personal level. Despite her sometimes making impulsive or questionable choices, I still found myself rooting for her. Given her upbringing, it makes complete sense why she acts the way she does and why she’s so naive at times.
The amount of abuse Zhi faced was absolutely heartbreaking. It made me want nothing more than to see her get the best kind of revenge in the next book. She deserves justice, and I hope she gets to make those who hurt her suffer.
As for her romance with the love interest (whose name I forgot, oops 💀), I feel like she only fell for him because he was the first man to ever show her real care and affection. After growing up without love, she naturally clung to the first person who treated her kindly, which makes sense given her background.
But my favorite part? Her dynamic with the baby dragon shifter! Their bond was so wholesome and endearing, and I’d love to read more about them in the future 🤭
December 29, 2025
This one is super wintery. It's very very snowy and cold.
.
The plot of this book was plotting, okay? I was quickly and thoroughly invested. The scorned princess is kidnapped by the invading kingdom( her family doesn't care), the general's blind and equally disliked son is also taken prisoner and the only way to escape is to create a magical bond that can only be done through marriage. Even so, it's not an easy escape and the connection between these two might become more than necessity.
.
I loved the character development for Princess Zhi Ruo and Feng Mian and how they helped each other realize they were more than what people said and believed of them.
.
I will say that at the beginning of the book there was a lot of telling in terms of emotions. That decreased as the book went on though. Also, the magic system, while interesting was also not a clear one. It's flashy and women aren't supposed to use it.
.
But I'm invested in this story and will definitely continue to the next book. Especially as this one did have a cliffhanger, and omg I searched for the next book so quick! It's not out yet, but luckily the summary was available and made clear the HEA is possible. Whew!!
.
The plot of this book was plotting, okay? I was quickly and thoroughly invested. The scorned princess is kidnapped by the invading kingdom( her family doesn't care), the general's blind and equally disliked son is also taken prisoner and the only way to escape is to create a magical bond that can only be done through marriage. Even so, it's not an easy escape and the connection between these two might become more than necessity.
.
I loved the character development for Princess Zhi Ruo and Feng Mian and how they helped each other realize they were more than what people said and believed of them.
.
I will say that at the beginning of the book there was a lot of telling in terms of emotions. That decreased as the book went on though. Also, the magic system, while interesting was also not a clear one. It's flashy and women aren't supposed to use it.
.
But I'm invested in this story and will definitely continue to the next book. Especially as this one did have a cliffhanger, and omg I searched for the next book so quick! It's not out yet, but luckily the summary was available and made clear the HEA is possible. Whew!!
March 10, 2025
This is the first book in a duology. The setting of this story is in an Asian culture where there is an emperor. The world is at war on multiple fronts both within and without. There is magic in this world that adds the fantasy aspect to it. The FMC, Zhi Ruo, is a rejected princess. She has two older siblings who are loved by their father, the emperor. When she is kidnapped and sold to the warring army, she is put into prison with the blind, Feng Mian. He is the cursed son of the general. Their relationship builds during the imprisonment and they agree to marry to share magic. This book ends on a cliffhanger.
The overall story is there but it feels disjointed. You don't learn there is magic in this world until we meet Feng Mian. He is cursed due to using a dark magic. But the magic system isn't explained very well. Feng Mian's character is the better developed one and his blindness is a strength. Zhi Ruo's character feels all over the place and it was hard to identify with her. I am on the fence about reading the second book because of these issues.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The overall story is there but it feels disjointed. You don't learn there is magic in this world until we meet Feng Mian. He is cursed due to using a dark magic. But the magic system isn't explained very well. Feng Mian's character is the better developed one and his blindness is a strength. Zhi Ruo's character feels all over the place and it was hard to identify with her. I am on the fence about reading the second book because of these issues.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 12, 2025
This was a beautifully woven fantasy novel that was intertwined two fabulous main characters and their character arcs - Zhi Ruo (FMC) and Feng Mian (MMC).
Zhi Ruo wasn’t a character I normally would resonate with, but she blossomed as the story went on. While she learned her strengths and her desires and ultimately decided to take what she wanted - I grew to appreciate her significantly more.
That being said, I liked Feng Mian immediately. His character was so dark and broody, but it was his instinctually caring towards Zhi that couldn’t help but admire. I loved the addition to the story of his being blind - it’s such a rare trait to be given to characters in books.
Overall, I loved the way the plot unraveled itself and the various type of magical abilities that characters had access to. I am a huge fan of this style of writing, it was elegant even when gory scenes occurred, and can’t wait to read the next book - the cliffhanger that we were left on was HUGE.
Kudos to Maham Fatemi!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Zhi Ruo wasn’t a character I normally would resonate with, but she blossomed as the story went on. While she learned her strengths and her desires and ultimately decided to take what she wanted - I grew to appreciate her significantly more.
That being said, I liked Feng Mian immediately. His character was so dark and broody, but it was his instinctually caring towards Zhi that couldn’t help but admire. I loved the addition to the story of his being blind - it’s such a rare trait to be given to characters in books.
Overall, I loved the way the plot unraveled itself and the various type of magical abilities that characters had access to. I am a huge fan of this style of writing, it was elegant even when gory scenes occurred, and can’t wait to read the next book - the cliffhanger that we were left on was HUGE.
Kudos to Maham Fatemi!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 26, 2025
I’m always wary when picking up a fantasy book because it can quickly become an amazing mess or an amazing read. This one is AMAZING. Also, it’s a duology so only one book to wait for.
I was only a bit disturbed by the character's age but it makes sense in the setting of the story so it quickly passed. I think it’s worth mentioning as some people might be troubled by this.
Zhi Ruo falls first, hard and fast, Feng Mian is cursed and because of this he appears unmoved by Zhi Ruo love..or is he? All characters are very well-written and you can truly hate the villains (the real villains).
I had to read the last chapter twice before closing the book. I mean, I didn’t see THIS coming…If “cliffhanger” had a chapter as an illustration, this could be it.
Please note: I received an Advance Review Copy (ebook) of this book, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
I was only a bit disturbed by the character's age but it makes sense in the setting of the story so it quickly passed. I think it’s worth mentioning as some people might be troubled by this.
Zhi Ruo falls first, hard and fast, Feng Mian is cursed and because of this he appears unmoved by Zhi Ruo love..or is he? All characters are very well-written and you can truly hate the villains (the real villains).
I had to read the last chapter twice before closing the book. I mean, I didn’t see THIS coming…If “cliffhanger” had a chapter as an illustration, this could be it.
Please note: I received an Advance Review Copy (ebook) of this book, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
February 28, 2025
I am voluntarily leaving this review. Thank you to Booksirens and the author for the free ARC.
Rating: 3.5/5
This is the first book in the series so it’s expected to leave you with a lot of questions after reading. The first half of this book was quite confusing for me. The world and character building wasn’t enough for me. The second half of the book was so full of action, gave some more depth to the world.
Zhi Rou and Feng Mian’s romance felt insta-lovey, especially on MMC’s part. Feng Mian also gave me a whiplash with his sudden change in personality and how he could be so contradicting.
I wish Zhi Rou could have more spine and purpose in the next book. I wouldn’t mind reading the sequel just to see if Zhi Rou could grow more as a character, because she was really lacking in a lot of aspects for me in this first book.
Rating: 3.5/5
This is the first book in the series so it’s expected to leave you with a lot of questions after reading. The first half of this book was quite confusing for me. The world and character building wasn’t enough for me. The second half of the book was so full of action, gave some more depth to the world.
Zhi Rou and Feng Mian’s romance felt insta-lovey, especially on MMC’s part. Feng Mian also gave me a whiplash with his sudden change in personality and how he could be so contradicting.
I wish Zhi Rou could have more spine and purpose in the next book. I wouldn’t mind reading the sequel just to see if Zhi Rou could grow more as a character, because she was really lacking in a lot of aspects for me in this first book.
March 1, 2025
This is a wicked romantasy of a book. The FMC, Zhi Ruo (the wicked princess), has only ever wanted to be loved throughout her life. After her family is attacked, she is captured and imprisoned with the MMC, Feng Mian, the general's cursed son.
Both of these characters have really been through it, and the author, Maham Fatemi, does an amazing job of letting you feel it throughout the entire book.
I loved the world and character building. The magic system is interesting but a little confusing to me. I feel like I need answers about the magic and the curse. Hopefully, I will get all that in book 2. I am invested, and after that ending, I definitely need to know what happens next with Zhi Ruo and her empire.
Thank you, Booksirens and Maham Fatemi, for this ARC. I'm leaving my thoughts and opinions voluntarily. I'm excited to read the next book.
Both of these characters have really been through it, and the author, Maham Fatemi, does an amazing job of letting you feel it throughout the entire book.
I loved the world and character building. The magic system is interesting but a little confusing to me. I feel like I need answers about the magic and the curse. Hopefully, I will get all that in book 2. I am invested, and after that ending, I definitely need to know what happens next with Zhi Ruo and her empire.
Thank you, Booksirens and Maham Fatemi, for this ARC. I'm leaving my thoughts and opinions voluntarily. I'm excited to read the next book.
March 9, 2025
⭐️4⭐️
Princess Zhi Ruo goes through it in this story. She’s known as the wicked princess but it’s more of a reflection of her insanely abusive family than herself. When she is imprisoned instead of her sister she meets our mmc, Zheng Feng Mian. He’s blind and cursed and yet he’s a solid rock for her. She finds solace in him during their time imprisoned together and on the run. Zhi Ruo was very dramatic and naive, but Feng Mian was realistic and didn’t baby Zhi Ruo. He brought the angst and I loved the chemistry between them. I can’t wait to see what happens in book 2 with the dragon child, he very clearly bonded with Zhi Ruo. Also is this series related to the drakkon series? I believe they are set in the same universe so it would be interesting to see the stories intertwine in some way.
“Even monsters can love, Feng Mian.”
Princess Zhi Ruo goes through it in this story. She’s known as the wicked princess but it’s more of a reflection of her insanely abusive family than herself. When she is imprisoned instead of her sister she meets our mmc, Zheng Feng Mian. He’s blind and cursed and yet he’s a solid rock for her. She finds solace in him during their time imprisoned together and on the run. Zhi Ruo was very dramatic and naive, but Feng Mian was realistic and didn’t baby Zhi Ruo. He brought the angst and I loved the chemistry between them. I can’t wait to see what happens in book 2 with the dragon child, he very clearly bonded with Zhi Ruo. Also is this series related to the drakkon series? I believe they are set in the same universe so it would be interesting to see the stories intertwine in some way.
“Even monsters can love, Feng Mian.”
March 14, 2025
What a beautifully emotional journey to a fantasy world full of amazingly descriptive imagery! The story of the wicked princess Zhi Ruo and the cursed Feng Mian is the surprise but beautiful love story I didn’t expect. When the enemy kills the majority of Zhi Ruo’s family and she is taken prisoner, she believes that her father and his men will find her and save her but that’s not the case with is so sad and it makes her so vulnerable, you truly feel sorry for her. When Feng Mian proposes a marriage so she can use his powers through a marriage bond, I didn’t expect her to agree! It’s supposed to be a marriage of purpose but soon they are falling for each other. This story takes you on an emotional rollercoaster an d leaves off at the perfect spot for the next story!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 24, 2025
I am absolutely awed at this book. The quality of the writing is wonderful but be warned that this is much more violent than I was expecting it to be. The characters felt realistic and the tension romantic tension and lead up had just the right amount of banter and sweetness for me.
I was very heavily invested in Zhi Ruo from the beginning - she’s likeable and relatable to me and there are so many things that she did that I think I also would have done. There are scenes that made me tear up and choke back a few sobs - I dreaded getting closer and closer to the end of the book because I wanted to stay in this world but also couldn’t put this book down.
I am really looking forward to the next one! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I was very heavily invested in Zhi Ruo from the beginning - she’s likeable and relatable to me and there are so many things that she did that I think I also would have done. There are scenes that made me tear up and choke back a few sobs - I dreaded getting closer and closer to the end of the book because I wanted to stay in this world but also couldn’t put this book down.
I am really looking forward to the next one! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 5, 2025
MAHAM!! WHAT DID YOU DO!! How can you leave me hanging like that!! AHHH I love it!
Seriously, this book hooks you right away and sucks you in! I loved seeing our wicked princess grow and finding her claws and embracing her darkness! It was absolutely beautiful! The writing, the story, the characters, are just exactly what they needed to be. I L.O.V.E. Feng Mian so freaking much! Ugh, he is such a perfect shadow daddy and I honestly love his protectiveness of Zhi Ruo, and how much she pushed him out of his comfort zone! The fight they have for each other is magnificent!
I absolutely cannot wait for book 2! Like I need it in my veins! Highly, highly recommend this book! Thank you Maham for letting me experience this wonderfully torturous book! 🫶
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 🌶️
Seriously, this book hooks you right away and sucks you in! I loved seeing our wicked princess grow and finding her claws and embracing her darkness! It was absolutely beautiful! The writing, the story, the characters, are just exactly what they needed to be. I L.O.V.E. Feng Mian so freaking much! Ugh, he is such a perfect shadow daddy and I honestly love his protectiveness of Zhi Ruo, and how much she pushed him out of his comfort zone! The fight they have for each other is magnificent!
I absolutely cannot wait for book 2! Like I need it in my veins! Highly, highly recommend this book! Thank you Maham for letting me experience this wonderfully torturous book! 🫶
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 🌶️
Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews