Empress of Fae

Blood of a Fae #3

by Briar Boleyn, Zara Hampton-Brown (narrator), Will M. Watt (narrator)

"Shattered or whole. Kneeling or standing. I'll get to her, and I won't ever leave. This time, I'll make her understand what we are together. And if anyone dares to hurt her, I'll burn them to the ground without a second thought."

Divided by oceans, but eternally bonded.

Morgan Pendragon has another name Morgan Le Fay. As her true heritage slowly emerges from the mists of the past, Morgan renounces one possible future as the new ruler of the fierce Siabra fae and the wife of the Prince of Claws and vanishes through a portal—returning to Camelot and the Rose Court, where her friends and younger brother lie in mortal peril from Arthur's cruel wiles.

But back in the Court of Claws, Kairos Draven won't allow his beloved to disappear from his life so easily. His bond with Morgan goes beyond blood, love, life, and even time itself, and neither one of them can relinquish its power or its pull.

Yet, Morgan is no ordinary woman. Not only is she beginning to manifest remarkable abilities, but the powers of the gods themselves run through her veins, bestowing her with unimaginable power and an unthinkable claim over all of Aercanum and beyond.

A claim that some will stop at nothing to put a halt to.

Empress of Fae is the third installment in an epic dark fantasy romance series that tells the story of Morgan Le Fay, King Arthur's sister. This enemies-to-lovers series is perfect for fans of unique magic systems, magical creatures, and witty banter and is sure to appeal to fans of Jennifer L. Armentrout, Raven Kennedy, Rebecca Yarros, Carissa Broadbent, and Sarah J. Maas. Intended for mature listeners.

Genres: Fantasy, Romantasy, Romance, Fae, Magic, Fantasy Romance, Dark Romance

Audible Audio

First published October 25, 2023

About the author

*** I am most active on Instagram!
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Briar Boleyn is the New York Times, Sunday Times, and USA Today bestselling fantasy romance author of the Bloodwing Academy and the Blood of a Fae series. Briar once wrote scholarly papers on Dumbledore, Dragon Age, and King Arthur before finally realizing she could create her own worlds where all three might coexist–with significantly more kissing. After wandering through English literature departments at four universities across Canada, she took a detour to teach in the Arctic, where her students would sometimes run out of class to chase polar bears. When not raising fictional dragons from the dead, Briar enjoys reading all types of sci-fi and fantasy, cultivating an unhealthy Disney World obsession, and playing RPG video games. She has written fourteen historical romance novels as Fenna Edgewood.

Reviews

[dani ♡ · Rating 5 out of 5]

”i’ve waited my entire lifetime for morgan,” i said simply. “i’ll go after her even if she doesn’t want me. even if she runs in the opposite direction. i’ll follow her to the ends of aercanum, and i’ll never stop.”

let me just begin by saying, i absolutely love this series and the world that briar has created, the main characters are lovely and surprise, there’s a BOOK FOUR coming in 2024!!🥰

‼️plus, this is the ONLY series thus far i’ve given 5 star ratings across ALL books for‼️

now on to my review, this is yet another 5/5 star for me! let me just preface this by saying, this book does read a lot like acowar, where there is a lot of storyline movement and politics up until the last like 20% of the book where the dramatic aspects really pick up. now i am someone who personally loves this, so ofc i loved this book.

empress of fae is book three in the blood of a fae series, so you’ll want to make sure to check out queen of roses, and court of claws before reading this one!

empress of fae takes place directly after court of claws, where morgan pendragon, newly morgan venator finds herself back in camelot after fleeing the court of umbral flames.. leaving behind her newfound friends for her oldest ones, who are nearest to her heart.

upon her arrival in camelot, a lot has changed. arthur’s rule of terror has progressed more rapidly… and it’s up to her to spy on him and help to bring him down once and for all. not only is morgan reunited with her old friends, but is also faced with new enemies as well, and of course there’s plot twists!

i might be just a littleeee biased because my name is actually featured in this book! 🤭

continuing on, i love the way this story and the characters are written. it’s so much fun diving into this world and getting to grow more and more attached to the characters. if this doesn’t sell you on reading this series, there’s fae, battlecats, and a talking bear… and it’s wonderful as i said :)

huge thank you to netgalley for the arc, and thank you to briar for allowing me to be a part of your street team. you’re amazing <3

spoilers!!

morgan and draven being able to communicate with each other in dreams was SO CUTE LIKE STOP IT RN, i love them so much!! and them finally embracing being mates >>💞

FENYX GOT MY BLOOD BOILING. SAME WITH ARTHUR. I HATE THEM BOTH SO MUCH !!!! so glad morgan got her revenge on him and draven let her like ugh what a man fr😩

”that’s where you’re mistaken, fenyx. i’m no princess. you’re addressing the wife of prince kairos draven venator and the empress of the court of umbral flames and the empire of myntra.” SHE ENDED HIM FR !! 😮‍💨

so yeah, i love this book. so read it rn <3

[BookForAHeart · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Born of power in endless night, to cast down realms, a dark birthright. Both fae and mortals, their thrones shall swirl, in the child's hands, lies the end of the world."


Morgan Pendragon is now known as Morgan Le Fay. Morgan's past has finally been outed, revealing her true origins and heritage as secrets are revealed to the light. Morgan refuses to be the new monarch of Siabra, also renouncing the chance at being the Prince of Claw's wife. Our main character evades this fate by fleeing through a portal and to Camelot, to the Rose Court where her friends and family are.

Kairos Draven remains in the Court of Claws, wifeless. Once before, he had said she could not escape him. He would go to the ends of the earth to find her. There is nowhere she can hide. This is both endearing and creepy. Regardless, Draven wants Morgan back, as his lover and his queen. Draven knows she is his fated one - bound through love, through fate, and beyond all mortal follies.

In this book, we got to see Morgan's abilities develop. Remarkable powers begin to manifest. Godly powers run through her veins, a terrifying beautiful gift that claims her as Aercanum.

I can relate to Morgan. She left because she felt as though her life was being written out for her, that she had no control of her future or her fate. Destiny comes calling, and her instinct is to leave it all behind. I cannot fault her for it, to make a decision that is truly hers.

In Camelot, she faces the looming war and must take on the task of ending it while keeping her family and friends safe. Protecting her city, her people, and her loved ones from a ruthless tyrant king. While Morgan is being an amazing warrior, Draven is in pain due to the loss of his mate, his destined other half.

Draven realizes that he will go to her, if she will not go to him. He must be by her side, fighting her battles, supporting her in anyway he possibly can. It costs him not to be with her. We watch him beg for her forgiveness, own up for past mistakes, and help her save her people. 🌟🌟🌟🌟/5 Stars!

[sulky✧ · Rating 1 out of 5]

this has really gone done hill as each book goes on. the first one, despite its flaws, i did enjoy and was intrigued about where it was going. i am stupid. i thought the second book was a painful read, boy was i not ready for the pain the third would inflict on me.

how is it that as the books go on the writing has become WORSE. the spelling mistakes, the inhuman and awkward interactions, the abrupt tone changes. its a fucking mess. morgan has the most unreliable moral compass and after all she has been through is insanely trusting of strangers. how does she keep falling for people who smile. they’re the biggest liars out here WAKE UP. tyre was the traitor?? ohhh wowwww who would have seen that coming?? oh yeah ME. !

the bad dialogue did no favours when bringing a beloved character back to life. their catch up/make up talk was so fucking flat. i did like lancelet in the first book but jesus christ u slaughtered her character this book lmfao. i did Not care if she lived or died, there was no connection there for me.

personally morgan forgave draven way too fucking fast. basically 10% in and shes like :( my husband<3 miss him<3 like okay damn u miss him. fair. but you have to rebuild the trust up from zero because that was a fucking blow he unleashed at the end of book 2. she made a whole ordeal over it too, only to then be like oh no… i shouldn't have left like that. 2 days later. wow.

“my little silver one” GAG. this is an awful pet name. i would expect this as more of a parent to their child name not from ur HUSBAND.

if there is another book to come, please PLEASE watch human beings talk for five minutes. you have the craziest structure in ur dialogue that is either flat or erratic. its so unnatural. “you lovely girl. my darling niece.” LMFAOOOO WHOOOOO IS TALKING LIKE THIS.

finally, PLEASE LET THE HOSTILITY TOWARDS JAVER GO. IM SICK OF IT. i think he’s committed the least crimes in your whole circle and yet u STILL hold him accountable for beks’ death. grow up.

edit: im sorry javer’s death scene…. i have to LAUGH. what the fuck lmfaooooo 😭😭😭😭 okay???? the way morgan had no fucking commentary on it either like. did u just see him as a piece of dust or smth? tf

[Ouafa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This third book in the series is just as thrilling as the first ones. We uncover new elements about our heroine's mysterious past, but not only that; new revelations reveal the extent of the danger facing the Knights of the Round Table.

I appreciated the fast-paced nature of the book; it immerses you in the story and keeps you pleasantly surprised with numerous unexpected twists and turns. Reading the epilogue, I also stumbled upon an interesting and little-known fact about the legend of King Arthur. I can't wait to dive into the last book of the series!

A big thank you to NetGalley, Starwater Press, and Briar Boleyn for graciously providing an eARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.

[The Bibliophile Doctor · Rating 2 out of 5]

I have read the first two books of the series and I enjoyed the second book the most in the series. I feel that Morgan is the most useless main character I have come across in a while. She is infuriatingly naive and got on my nerves almost every few pages.

Firstly she forgive her husband - "Mate" I don't know author's obsession with the word mate but I felt it cringy. She forgave Draven so easily when he did so much wrong in the end of the second book.

And then until upto last 15-20 % of the book she does nothing at all. Rather stupidly creates more issues for those who are rebelling against her brother. Meeting Lancelet and Dame hayna was stupid and putting them at risk. She promises to free Lancelet but does nothing really to help her. She can't even fight Fenix, I don't know what was her role in the whole story. I feel that people would have done better if she had been absent in their lives.

Draven who was shown to be driven and possibly good King material just appoints Morgan as Queen in his stead and stops thinking about his own kingdom just to be with his mate. At the start of the book he is shown as whiny teenager not the Draven that was portrayed in first two books. Where is his drive to protect his people, to do some good for the wronged siabra? To become a king his kingdom deserved. Oh no, he can't stop thinking about his mate.

The rebels are almost same, they do nothing at all until last 15-20 % of the book. Apart from one instant where they save another rebel from horrific death, I did not see them helping people of Camelot.

I expected more from this book and once you are so invested in these characters you can't move on till you see a proper finish to their story. So of course I'm gonna read the fourth book as well but I do not have as high expectations as I had from the third installment.

Thank you Netgalley and publisher for the ARC in exchange of an honest review.

[Bex (Beckie Bookworm) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the third book in the series it's not a standalone so must be read in order and there are four books in total. I'm not sure why I was convinced this was a trilogy it isn't as there's still one more to come but I was then thankful this didn't end on a massive cliffhanger. I'm content to wait for my closure though I still hope it's not too long. 

This continues where we left off directly in the aftermath of Morgan running away through the gate and destroying any chance of Draven following after her. On this journey, she reluctantly acquires a companion as Javier wallowing in guilt takes it upon himself to acquire redemption by pledging his devotion to Morgan. Not that she is thrilled by this turn of events as her feelings towards him are still extremely complicated. Camelot is in uproar and it's immediately apparent to Morgan that Arthur has devolved and spiraled even further in her absence. She can no longer make excuses for her brother and knows he needs to be stopped.

We have some new enemies on the horizon including Fenyx the lord general and new right-hand man of Arthur and we also get to discover more about Morgan and her background. We get to see some old faces and discover more about new players. This one is heavy on political intrigue as Morgan is forced to play the game of courts gathering information and playing spymaster to assist the rebellion and thwart her brother.

What I especially liked here was how Morgan seems to have evolved as a person she wasn't so judgmental and seemed to have matured in her thought process. It was like she had turned an important corner and she finally seemed to comprehend just how fortunate she was to have Draven's regard. She also recognised her overreaction and expressed her regret regarding her initial knee-jerk reaction.

Draven, as usual, was perfect and moved heaven and earth to reach Morgan and this wasn't an easy feat as Morgan's prior actions had prevented him from following directly so he did it the old-fashioned way across sea and land all whilst terrified he wouldn't reach her in time and i did finally feel these two were on the same page and they had some truly heartwarming moments together.

This one also doesn't pull its punches and we had some truly shocking and heart-wrenching moments, my heart was in my mouth here on numerous occasions especially as this approached its climax. This also had a darker tone than its predecessors and I was transfixed at the finish here. 

This was a five-star read all the way and I enjoyed it immensely. It's dual POV and I felt we got to know Draven emotionally here. It was again well written and such an easy engrossing read and I'm highly anticipating the finish now and having all of my many questions finally answered. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of Empress of Fae.



Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com

[kitkat (semi-hiatus ♡︎) · Rating 5 out of 5]

✦ ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦

color me speechless. i loved pretty much everything about this yall. draven’s perspective of him following her across the world is literally priceless, i loved it so much 🤧🤧

♬⋆.˚ now playing - the great war - taylor swift
✦ We're burned for better / I vowed I would always be yours / 'Cause we survived the Great War ✦

“𝓘’𝓿𝓮 𝔀𝓪𝓲𝓽𝓮𝓭 𝓶𝔂 𝓮𝓷𝓽𝓲𝓻𝓮 𝓵𝓲𝓯𝓮𝓽𝓲𝓶𝓮 𝓯𝓸𝓻 𝓜𝓸𝓻𝓰𝓪𝓷,” 𝓘 𝓼𝓪𝓲𝓭 𝓼𝓲𝓶𝓹𝓵𝔂. “𝓘’𝓵𝓵 𝓰𝓸 𝓪𝓯𝓽𝓮𝓻 𝓱𝓮𝓻 𝓮𝓿𝓮𝓷 𝓲𝓯 𝓼𝓱𝓮 𝓭𝓸𝓮𝓼𝓷’𝓽 𝔀𝓪𝓷𝓽 𝓶𝓮. 𝓔𝓿𝓮𝓷 𝓲𝓯 𝓼𝓱𝓮 𝓻𝓾𝓷𝓼 𝓲𝓷 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓸𝓹𝓹𝓸𝓼𝓲𝓽𝓮 𝓭𝓲𝓻𝓮𝓬𝓽𝓲𝓸𝓷. 𝓘’𝓵𝓵 𝓯𝓸𝓵𝓵𝓸𝔀 𝓱𝓮𝓻 𝓽𝓸 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓮𝓷𝓭𝓼 𝓸𝓯 𝓐𝓮𝓻𝓬𝓪𝓷𝓾𝓶, 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓘’𝓵𝓵 𝓷𝓮𝓿𝓮𝓻 𝓼𝓽𝓸𝓹.”

features-
⋆˚࿔ multiple POV
⋆˚࿔ abuse / rape
⋆˚࿔ fae / magic 😈😈
⋆˚࿔ lost heir
⋆˚࿔ enemies to lovers
⋆˚࿔ betrayal
⋆˚࿔ SHADOW DADDY 🤭🤭

⋆˚࿔ relationships - can i just say that draven is lowk amazing and that morgan is a bit annoying when it comes to him? she’s just a little bit naive at parts and i wanted to throw my kindle across the room 💀💀
————————-

✧₊⁺ preread - i CANT WAIT to read this after how book 2 ended 🥰

[Manda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am so happy that NetGalley gave me this series. I adore Briar Boleyn's style of writing. These books captivate me until the very last page. The imagination in sequences in the last book and this one in particular is so impressive. I can visualize the scenes and the world. Another aspect that I love about this series is the detail and development also involving the supporting characters. This makes a huge difference to the story, and elevates the writing. The spice I'd say is about a 3 on the spice scale. The throne room had me! Can't wait to see what happens next, but also sad to be finishing this series in the next book!

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

Huge thanks to NetGalley and Starwater Press for this ARC

What I love about this saga is that each book is really different from the other, has its own challenges and villains and we never get bored.
Morgan has left Draven to go back to Camelot and save her brother Kaye from the atrocities of Arthur. Draven decides to go after her against her wishes and we see that the situation in Pendrath is critical.
In this book we discover more about Orcades and Morgan and their past.
The lore is more developed in this book, we get a prophecy that could change everything and we get to know a little more about Gorlois and his motives.
The relationship between Draven and Morgan is strengthened and I loved seeing it!
Also, I loved Hawl’s character in this book!

[Megan · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5

[Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Born of power in endless night, to cast down realms, a dark birthright. Both fae and mortals, their thrones shall swirl, in the child's hands, lies the end of the world."💫

Easily my favorite of the series thus far! Full of court intrigue, magic, even more betrayal than the previous books, war crime on top of war crime, rebellion, and packed with action towards the end...this book did not disappoint. This is book number three of a four book series.

Plot:
Based loosely off of Arthurian lore, we have a re-telling of the story of Excalibur. We pick up where the last book ended... Morgan has jumped through a portal of arches back to Camelot shortly after finding out she had been tricked into becoming Empress of the Empire of Myntra and had married Prince Draven without her knowledge. When she returns home, though, she finds Camelot to be in even more disarray than she believed, with Arthur committing monstrous atrocities against his neighboring kingdoms and former allies. Trying to help, she finds herself amidst a rebellion led by Merlin and in a perilous situation as a spy back in Arthur's castle. She also learns that she can walk in her own dreams, and in this dream state, she must confront the mate she left behind in Myntra.

Characters:
After wanting to punch Morgan the entire second book, I quite liked her in this one. She grew up a lot being separated from Draven and almost immediately realizes she made a mistake in leaving him behind. Her spoiled brat attitude shifts into that of someone who has to learn to take care of herself and be responsible for the people around her. She also learns to have gratitude for the love in her life. Morgan's still a wee bit annoying, but nowhere near as bad as in the last book.

Draven is just Draven.... Ultimate daddy status. Violent towards enemies, but tender for those he loves. Protective. Caring. He is hurt that she left him, but heeds the advice of those around him and acts like the responsible ruler that he has always been meant to be. We love us some Kairos fucking Draven. Woooweeee. The relationship between Draven and Morgan really solidifies in this book... And there's some serious spice🔥if that's something you look for when reading.

💫 “Yours is the only kingdom I'll pay fealty to. Yours are the only feet at which I'll willingly kneel. I'd rather be a villain by your side than play the hero for anyone else.”

The side characters in this book were of course as strong as ever. Orcades was one of my favorites in Empress of Fae. She was commanding, strong, knew how to handle Arthur, knew her own mind, and took absolutely no shit. I loved her. Arthur and Fenyx on the other hand can suck a donkey-sized dickkkkkk. Honestly, I don't know which of them was the most awful human-being... Probably Fenyx? No, Arthur. No, Fenyx? Definitely Fenyx. They were both such well-developed villains, though.👏🏼

Writing:
This book started out with a 4-person POV which I was pretty excited about to be honest.... But then all of a sudden, it was only 1-2 POVs throughout the rest of the story. Mostly, Morgan. So I'm not sure what the point of including the other two POVs were in the first place?

This book is definitely darker than the first two in the series, filled with torture, executions, and other monstrous war crimes (not to mention a population of non-nobility starving to death in the streets). The tone set in this book is so different and creative. The worldbuilding in this series has grown from book 1-3. You can really picture yourself in the world Boleyn has created and I love that.

Overall Thoughts:
EMPRESS OF FAE ABSOLUTELY ATE. I would definitely recommend this series. It's been great so far. The characters and world are continually evolving and I am excited to see where the plot takes us in book number four. If you are looking for an enemies-to-lovers romantasy or a fae-based King Arthur novel this would be a good series for you.

💫 "She haunted my soul. She was my constant reverie. The vision of all I longed for. She was the constellation that guided my destiny."
⭐⭐⭐⭐/5

[Keri M · Rating 5 out of 5]

Morgan and Draven are one of my favorite fantasy couples. This book was heavy. It will make you wanna cry, laugh, be happy all the feels at one. I was pleasantly surprised that this trilogy became a 4 book series. I cannot wait to read book 4. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Briar!!! I’d give you 10 if I could girl!!!

[♡Naz♡ · Rating 5 out of 5]

That scene on the throne it gave me deva vu from Fourth Wing.😊😜

[_blondebooknerd · Rating 4 out of 5]

"I'd rather be a villain by your side than play the hero for anyone else," and "If she's in danger, I slaughter everyone who stands between us without hesitancy"

Empress of Fae (Book Three) 🌊💫
Morgan Le Fay discovers her true heritage, faces mortal peril, and begins manifesting godlike powers. Separated by worlds but bonded beyond life itself, her connection with Kairos is literally everything. The stakes get higher, the magic darker, and the romance… unforgettable. 🔥🩸

Morgan Pendrath returns to Camelot for the first time since Arthur declared war, but this time she’s armed with everything she’s learned — from surviving the Court of Siabra to facing the deadly quests for Excalibur 🗡️✨. Overwhelmed by revelations, including the truth that Draven is her husband, she must navigate court politics, spy on her brother, and protect her people — all while worrying for her younger brother at the front lines. 💔🔥

Draven is relentless, keeping his promise that Myntra forces are at her disposal and ensuring Morgan cannot escape their bond. Their connection continues in dreams, weaving romance and tension into Morgan’s journey of self-discovery. 🌹💫

This book highlights Morgan’s growth — confident, self-assured, and no longer afraid of her magic or her power. She has evolved from the timid, bullied princess to a woman who can take a stand and command respect. The one small bummer? Morgan and Draven are apart for most of the story, with their fiery chemistry mostly in dreams until the climax… but the pull between them is undeniable. 😏🖤

4 stars for the intrigue, the magic, and the character growth — plus the slow-burning romance that keeps you hooked. Briar Bolelyn’s storytelling just keeps getting richer. 🌹✨

[Yves V.H. [Slow reading] · Rating 3 out of 5]

3. 75 ⭐

The writing definitely improved here. The whole story has more depth than the former books; I am quite intrigued by the twists this book has. Although I do have a few problems: one, maybe it's just me, but I really couldn't feel the chemistry between Draven and Morgan. I feel like their relationship is forced. The other one is Lancelot's revival. She was brought back but I honestly don't know what she contributed to the story aside from making Morgan feel guilty for not saving her when she was being eaten alive. Lastly, I really thought we were going to have multiple POVs from 4 different characters but it was only in the first few chapters. There are also new characters introduced and I couldn't keep up with them anymore.

Setting those aside, I like this book better than the other two in the series and I hope the fourth book will even be much better.

🌸 thank you Netgalley and Briar Boleyn fornthe eARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own

[Emma · Rating 4 out of 5]

An entertaining and satisfying to the end of what I thought was a trilogy. Apparently there will be a fourth book in the future. Despite one or two plot weaknesses, this was an exciting and action packed story. Many thanks to Netgalley for an arc of this book.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book picks right up from the Court of Claws cliffhanger and MYGOSH is it a wild ride!

Morgan returns to Camelot to discover her worse fears confirmed; her psychotic brother is completely unhinged and is ruthlessly wreaking havoc across the entire kingdom in his paranoia-fueled quest for power. However, Morgan is willing to do whatever it takes to thwart his plans and take him down.

In the midst of the chaotic events, this book continues to develop Morgan’s character growth. Her determination and desire to sacrifice her own desires for the greater good really shine through. There’s also atonement and reconciliation for the relationships that she damaged in previous books. Her bond with her mate grows stronger, and I LOVE his devotion towards her.

Thankfully, this book does not end on a cliffhanger, but rather on the brink of anticipating what’s to come in the near future. After the last book’s gut-wrenching cliffhanger, I really appreciated that 😂

I’ve loved this series so far and can’t wait to dive into the final installment next! ✨

Thank you so much to the author, Starwater Press, and NetGalley for providing an eARC of this book in exchange for my honest review ♥️

[Lena · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️ well this book just ripped my heart out and stomped on it. There was so much loss in this book and I am in PAIN. Despite that, I am thoroughly addicted to this series and couldn’t put this down. This book picks up right where the last book left off. Morgan is back in Camelot and things are not great to say the least. Draven is still in Myntra but finding his way to Morgan after the ending of the last book. BUT we do get dreamscapes to fill the void and to strengthen their relationship!! We also got more Orcades in this book, and finally got the introduction of Medra (if you’ve read on wings of blood, you’ll understand why I’m so excited about this). The politics of this world are getting messier and messier, and I’m ready for the final showdown with the REAL enemy in the next book

[Becky Rice · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the 3rd book in the series. A unique and compelling retelling of the Arthur legends of old.
I'm thoroughly invested in this series now, and will impatiently wait for book 4.
I give this book a very solid 4 star rating.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this ARC

[Rachel Fallon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been eagerly waiting for Empress of Fae since Court of Claws came out. I love all retellings of myths and fairytales, and the Blood of a Fae series has been absolutely amazing for me! It remixes so much of Arthurian lore with fae lore in the most perfect way. Book 3 picks up after Morgan made a desperate run through the arches, leaving Myntra and Draven behind to return to Camelot. But her home is much changed from when she left, with Arthur having become even more monstrous and his pointless war costing everyone much. Morgan must find a way to help, and she finds herself landing in a dangerous situation. While she finds herself now able to walk in dreams, where she meets the mate she left behind.

This is definitely the heaviest of the books in the series thus far. There’s a lot of awful war crimes going on, a populace starving and freezing to death, torture, executions, and so on. While the prior books had touches of these, it was not so dark as this one. And that is exactly what Morgan lands in. After fleeing Myntra due largely due to her grief over Beks, along with finding out the truth about her and Draven’s mate bond and marriage, she now finds herself with even more grief to throw atop the pile. She makes it her mission to be of use to them, in whatever way Merlin sees fit. And Merlin sees fit to make her a spy. Merlin makes a devastating choice to get Arthur to take Morgan back to court, giving her an alibi for her time away. The horror around her doesn’t seem to stop. Each step of her journey it only gets worse.

I love Morgan’s character so much, and you can really see how much she’s changed from the start. She’s always been a strong character, but she’d learning how to turn herself into quite the formidable woman. Not just with a sword either. She resists power, runs from it, tries to hand it off. She doesn’t think she’s suitable to wield it. But Excalibur makes it clear as day. She has farther to go to learn this, but the first hints of who she could be are there. Even as she has to deal with another deranged admirer, she handles it incredibly well. Skeeved out, yes. But she manages to keep her head and find ways around Arthur and his cohorts. Morgan has to face a lot more tough choices on the horizon, but she’s gets quite the crash course here.

The rebellion storyline was a lot fun. I loved seeing the ebb and flow of them. Morgan lands with them at the beginning, and their hands are all but tied. After Morgan goes back to the Rose Court, you only see or hear about them in small snippets here and there as they make dramatic rescues. Until the end of the story, when things change and they finally go into action. It fit nicely against the backdrop of Arthur’s plots and schemes and his bizarre colosseum style executions/tests. As well as Draven’s plot as he begins making his way to Morgan with an army at his back. Morgan herself being the main plot, and who were following, we gets bits of them all around her own plot line. All the plots intersect well and you never feel like too much is going on, or not enough. It’s all balanced perfectly.

Morgan and Draven’s relationship is one of my favorite aspects of this series. I was nearly ripping my hair out when she ran at the end of the last book, especially knowing they were now an ocean apart and likely wouldn’t have much on page time together this book. And in some ways, that’s sort of the case. But the dreams they begin sharing allow them to visit one another before they reconnect in person. I think this was a great way to do it. You couldn’t really have them so far apart and not talking, or readers would have been too frustrated for the length of time it takes versus the length of time they spend together in person. And all the unresolved issues couldn’t go another full book! The dreams give them the chance to talk and work things out together. Their interactions were still my favorite part! They are truly perfect together, and I loved every moment with them!

This book all leads up to a wonderful climax. Each string you’re following playing into it. I loved watching it unfold and all the different aspects to it. There was also some badass magic on display from Morgan and the sword at one point, and whatever it did showed us a completely new side to it. I’m so intrigued by the sword, Orcades’s words to Morgan at the end, and the king. And how all are going to lead Morgan to her destiny. I’m so incredibly excited to see this unfold in book 4, and already can’t wait to read it! I’m also excited to see more of Morgan and Draven. The bits we do get are wonderful, but I can never have enough of them! I would also love to see more of those found family vibes of display. With everyone so displaced here, we only get small bits of it.

There’s truly so much I want to see and I’ll be thrilled when I can finally read how Briar will wrap this story up! It’s clear Morgan’s father has been much more involved in everything than anyone knew. Without spoiling anything here, all I’ll say I was actually shocked to find out some things here! Orcades warning to Morgan about their father is especially chilling knowing that he’s out there working in the shadows, ensuring what he wants comes to pass. Now there’s the issue with the cup to resolve. Which, by the way, huge props to Javer for proving his true colors! I nearly cheered out loud! But there’s so much gone wrong that needs to be fixed, and it’s all inevitably going to fall to Morgan to handle.

But she does have Myntra and Pendrath with her. And while both armies have clearly seen better days, they at least have them. That’s a start! These shadow monsters popping up may mean more enemies, the same enemies, who knows?! Or what those will mean for their shaky alliances. Everything and everyone outside of the Valtan fae seem to have found their way to Morgan however. And with Guinevere and the owl on hand, I’m hoping we get more answers soon. It’s clear they are at a tipping point, and thanks to Arthur, darkness has found a foothold on their world. But what Morgan’s mother did still isn’t clear, and I’m betting we’ll find out a way that plays into it later on. I can’t wait to see what Morgan and Draven (and their adorable exmoors) do next!

I received an eARC of this book. This is my honest review left voluntarily.

[Kasie · Rating 5 out of 5]

You did it again *~* The third book was not as spicy as the last few, but that’s because of all the story building. And I LOVE when books also focus on plots and not just those spicy scene. This book has MANY trigger warnings, and is not for everyone. I cried, I laughed , I gasped, overall I’m still left ready for book #4. Briar you have succeeded once again. I didn’t expect this book to be what it was. Oh man. Imma have to go touch some grass now…..

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

[Haley Huckabay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title: Empress of Fae
Author: Briar Boleyn
Genre: Fantasy romance
Media: ebook
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

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Favorite quote: “That’s where you’re mistaken, Fenyx. I’m no princess. You’re addressing the wife of Prince Kairos Draven Venator and the Empress of the Court of Umbral Flames and the empire of Myntra.”
Sum of this book in 5 words or less: N/A

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Themes: retelling, family, murder, assault

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Thoughts:

Short summary - Morgan is in Camelot trying to painstakingly put together the pieces of her old life. Draven watches her disappear through a portal and takes off after her in a fleet of ships to help her fight the battle she’s been desperate to have.

Draven and Nightclaw losing their connections to Morgan was absolutely devastating when it happened. Arthur finally perishing was great if we didn’t know that he regretted everything in the end. I absolutely loved the badassness of all of the females in this book - it really makes everything so much better!

[A Bookworm Crafts · Rating 4 out of 5]

Divided by Oceans but Eternally Bonded

This third book in the Blood of the Fae series had me on the edge of my seat! The book picks up right where the last one left off, with Morgan back in Camelot while Draven crosses oceans to be at her side once more.

The characters continue to develop as the plot further draws upon Arthurian lore but putting it's own spin on it.

I cannot wait to read the final book!

Thank you to Netgalley and Victory Editing Netgalley Coop for proving me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Shani’s Shelves · Rating 4 out of 5]

Spice level:🌶️🌶️

Read if you like:
▫️multiple POV
▫️second chance
▫️fae and magic
▫️courtly intrigue, politics, and spies
▫️revenge and betrayal

I loved Queen of Roses with its slow burn enemies to lovers. Court of Claws was spicy and fast-paced and amazing. And this book? This book was crazy! I think I held my breath the whole time I was reading it. A lot of it focuses on politics and moving the storyline along, but I loved it! It was a lot darker than the first two books, but I think it was necessary with the way the overall story seems to be going.

Draven and Morgan are apart for almost the entire book, so it doesn’t focus on their relationship like book two did. (Which was a little sad for me). But, the separation really allowed Morgan to shine. She returned to the home she grew up in, where she had been powerless and mistreated, and instead got to be powerful, strong, and badass. I loved her character arc and development.

And shout out to FINALLY getting Draven’s POV! I’ve only been longing for it for two entire books! He didn’t get a ton of chapters, but what we did get was magical!

We also get introduced to new side characters and get to know some old ones better, and it just made the entire world more vibrant and complex.

I love the way this story reimagines the myth of Arthur, Excalibur, the Round Table, Merlin, and Morgan. It is so wildly creative and entertaining. It’s just a very compelling story, and I can’t wait for the fourth book! Please do yourself a favor and read this series!

Thank you to Starwater Press, NetGalley, and Briar Boleyn for the ARC. I received an advanced copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.

[caffeine reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Netgalley and Briar Boleyn for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!

5⭐️!!!!!!! I’d I could give more I would!

This is the 3rd book in this amazing series. It’s truly an amazing story. I love the Camelot and fae mix theme it really gives it a different edge.

This book gave me ALLLLL THE FEELS!
It had me crying, angry, happy and even got under the collar.
This had everything and then some!!
I cannot recommend this series more.
As I’ve stated in a past review I have now got all 3 physical books I couldn’t not they are now my ‘kindle trophies’ sitting on my shelf with my other amazing reads.

I can’t wait for book 4, this next book is going to be where it all hits the fan. They’re BIG things coming and Morgan has got to go kick some butt.

Well done Briar, this was an amazing experience I’m heartbroken I won’t won’t be able to read again for the 1st time.

[BlaireReadsTheThings · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley for this digital title.

Empress Morgan has once again found herself in harm's way. After running off from Draven and Siabra responsibilities, she has returned to Pendrath to save Kaye and her former kingdom from the tyrannical Arthur. She has no idea who to trust and a new suitor more cruel that Florian has taken an interest in her. What is a married fae empress to do?

I really wanted to rate this like a 4.25. I LOVE it, but it didn't leave me salivating for the next one like my typical 5⭐ reads. I'm already diving into Book 4 and I am hoping the culmination of this series knocks my socks off. I love the world that has been created in these books and I will be sad to see it go. The characters are still as complex, yet relatable as ever. I'm so glad I found this series.

[Elle · Rating 5 out of 5]

* Thank you NetGalley, Victory Editing NetGalley co-op and Briar Boleyn for granting me access to this book in exchange for an honest review *


As a devoted fan of Briar Boleyn's captivating "Blood of Fae" series, I was thrilled to embark on the final installment, "Empress of Fae." Initially, I believed the series was a trilogy, and I was a bit disappointed to learn that it would continue, but this revelation only heightened my anticipation for the conclusion of Morgan and Draven's extraordinary journey.

"Empress of Fae" masterfully interweaves elements of dark fantasy, romance, and intrigue, drawing the reader into a world of captivating mythology, complex characters, and plot twists. While the middle section of the book might have felt slightly drawn out, Boleyn's skillful storytelling and intricate world-building kept me engaged as she laid the foundation for the exhilarating climax.

The deepening bond between Morgan and Draven, the fierce protector and the powerful fae, was a heartwarming and compelling aspect of the story. Their scenes together were imbued with a captivating blend of tenderness, passion, and unwavering loyalty, adding depth and emotional resonance to the narrative.

Undoubtedly, the last quarter of the book was a whirlwind of action, suspense, and unexpected revelations. I found myself unable to put the book down as Boleyn masterfully orchestrated a series of twists and turns that kept me guessing until the very end.

Overall, "Empress of Fae" is a remarkable addition to the series, delivering a blend of dark fantasy, romance, and thrilling action. While I was initially disappointed that the series would continue (as I was afraid it would receive the From Blood and Ash treatment, aka becoming too dragged and boring and long for no reason), the conclusion of this installment only amplified my desire to delve further into this enchanting world. I eagerly await the next installment, so I can witness the unfolding of Morgan and Draven's destiny amidst the ever-shifting landscape of Fae politics and ancient prophecies.
I really hope I will be accepted by Net Galley and the publisher to receive an advanced copy since I loved all the books so much!

[Lorraina Lisowski · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omg what's great 3rd book in the series. So many twists in the story. I read this in two days!we definitely Need more shadow daddy Draven!

[Bean · Rating 5 out of 5]

I... thought this was a trilogy. Imagine my absolute torment finishing book 3 and being like wow there sure was a lot of unfinished business here LOL.

My impatient wait until March has commenced. At least I'll get the conclusion for my birthday. 💛

Seriously though, this Arthurian retelling is fun, endearing, and adventurous. Highly recommend for lovers of SJM, JLA, and the like.

Tysm for letting me be an ARC reader!

Until we meet again in March...
xx 🖤

[Marta Cox · Rating 5 out of 5]

This third book in the series just builds on all the previous alliance's and nefarious plans. I was concerned that with Morgan and Draven being separated I might miss the romantic elements but actually no because the story kept me eagerly turning the pages as Morgan comes to terms with her new reality back in Arthur's court. Yes the names are inspired by Arthurian legend but make no mistake this is a series about the Fae and definitely original. I very much look forward to reading the next book and heartily recommend this series.
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair