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To Kill a Prince
A prince without sight. A spy without loyalty. A love without a future.
Wren has spent her life walking the fine line between two worlds—half-fae, half-human, and wholly untrustworthy in the eyes of both. But it is her unique ability to lie that makes her valuable. When her grandmother, a ruthless fae enchantress, places her in the service of Prince Cassiel—the recently blinded second son of the realm—Wren knows she’s meant to earn his trust... and, eventually, take his life.
It should be easy. Cassiel hates the fae who stole his sight, and he’s just as sharp-tongued and impossible as the rumours say. Wren just has to keep her distance. But as she helps him navigate his new reality, she realises that beneath the bitterness is a man who is fiercely intelligent, deeply wounded, and entirely too compelling. And worse—he’s beginning to trust her.
As tensions between humans and fae ignite into war, Wren is forced to choose between the family who raised her and the man she was never meant to love. But Cassiel isn’t as blind as he seems, and if he discovers the truth about her, she may not live long enough to make that choice at all…
Wren has spent her life walking the fine line between two worlds—half-fae, half-human, and wholly untrustworthy in the eyes of both. But it is her unique ability to lie that makes her valuable. When her grandmother, a ruthless fae enchantress, places her in the service of Prince Cassiel—the recently blinded second son of the realm—Wren knows she’s meant to earn his trust... and, eventually, take his life.
It should be easy. Cassiel hates the fae who stole his sight, and he’s just as sharp-tongued and impossible as the rumours say. Wren just has to keep her distance. But as she helps him navigate his new reality, she realises that beneath the bitterness is a man who is fiercely intelligent, deeply wounded, and entirely too compelling. And worse—he’s beginning to trust her.
As tensions between humans and fae ignite into war, Wren is forced to choose between the family who raised her and the man she was never meant to love. But Cassiel isn’t as blind as he seems, and if he discovers the truth about her, she may not live long enough to make that choice at all…
497 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 24, 2025
About the author
Katherine Macdonald
37 books478 followersKatherine "Kate" Macdonald writes the books she wishes she could have read more of as a teen—stories of fierce girls and gentle boys, of romance and adventure, and where the "three Cs" (chemistry, communication and consent) reign supreme. There may still be a little bit of miscommunication along the way as the characters grow as people, but she tries not to rely on that trope too much!
She loves books packed with witty banter, stories where you can feel the love growing between a pair, that include excellent, well-developed side-characters and a few subtly-foreshadowed twists and turns. She despises toxic relationships and tales that rely on old-fashioned notions of male and female stereotypes. She enjoys bending expectations and crafting worlds where sexism is a thing of the past. She considers herself an LGBTQIA+ friendly author, and her stories include a range of characters from within the community and absolutely no discrimination in sight.
She holds a BA in English and Creative Writing from Lancaster University, and a PGCE in teaching English and Drama from the University of Exeter. She's been a writer since she was old enough to hold a crayon, but it was only after surviving a year of parenthood and a full-time job on less than six hours of sleep a night that she finally gained the courage to publish her debut novel, "The Rose and the Thorn." It's a retelling of Beauty and the Beast inspired by a dream of a girl surrounded by snow in a field of flowers.
At her heart, Macdonald is storyteller, and it is her dream to inspire others in the way that she has been inspired.
She lives in Devon with her manic child and well-behaved cats.
She loves books packed with witty banter, stories where you can feel the love growing between a pair, that include excellent, well-developed side-characters and a few subtly-foreshadowed twists and turns. She despises toxic relationships and tales that rely on old-fashioned notions of male and female stereotypes. She enjoys bending expectations and crafting worlds where sexism is a thing of the past. She considers herself an LGBTQIA+ friendly author, and her stories include a range of characters from within the community and absolutely no discrimination in sight.
She holds a BA in English and Creative Writing from Lancaster University, and a PGCE in teaching English and Drama from the University of Exeter. She's been a writer since she was old enough to hold a crayon, but it was only after surviving a year of parenthood and a full-time job on less than six hours of sleep a night that she finally gained the courage to publish her debut novel, "The Rose and the Thorn." It's a retelling of Beauty and the Beast inspired by a dream of a girl surrounded by snow in a field of flowers.
At her heart, Macdonald is storyteller, and it is her dream to inspire others in the way that she has been inspired.
She lives in Devon with her manic child and well-behaved cats.
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September 26, 2025Edit: To Kill a Prince is on a Goodreads giveaway! Head to the giveway section to snag a free pre-release copy.
For a guaranteed copy, head to Booksprout. There's still a few copies available!
Bonus content available to reviewers! ^_^
From:
“You don’t want to have to cling onto me forever, do you?”
He presses his mouth into a thin line. “I am a big fan of things that aren’t you…”
To:
Her breath feels closer than ever. All of her does, like there’s barely anything between our bodies at all, barely anything between us. I can’t describe it any better, all I know is that there are lines of poetry inside my mind coming alive with sensation, suddenly making sense.
In 20 chapters!
To Kill A Prince was born out of my desire to write another couple with a begruding reliance on each other---a testy, I-don't-really-like-you-but-I-need-you relationship, forced proximity to friends to something more. And, in this case, something forbidden. It was a pinch of Juliana and Hawthorn from Forest of Dreams and Whispers and a fair helping of Dimitri and Adeline from A Curse of Hope and Shadows, too. Cassiel and Wren start off disliking each other, but they actually discover they have a lot in common, and despite Wren's assertion that she "Isn't a nursemaid" the care that she and Cassiel exhibit for each other gives a lot of Dimitri/Adeline vibes.
My betas absolutely loved their dynamic, and I can't wait to sharpen it up and share it with you.
For a guaranteed copy, head to Booksprout. There's still a few copies available!
Bonus content available to reviewers! ^_^
From:
“You don’t want to have to cling onto me forever, do you?”
He presses his mouth into a thin line. “I am a big fan of things that aren’t you…”
To:
Her breath feels closer than ever. All of her does, like there’s barely anything between our bodies at all, barely anything between us. I can’t describe it any better, all I know is that there are lines of poetry inside my mind coming alive with sensation, suddenly making sense.
In 20 chapters!
To Kill A Prince was born out of my desire to write another couple with a begruding reliance on each other---a testy, I-don't-really-like-you-but-I-need-you relationship, forced proximity to friends to something more. And, in this case, something forbidden. It was a pinch of Juliana and Hawthorn from Forest of Dreams and Whispers and a fair helping of Dimitri and Adeline from A Curse of Hope and Shadows, too. Cassiel and Wren start off disliking each other, but they actually discover they have a lot in common, and despite Wren's assertion that she "Isn't a nursemaid" the care that she and Cassiel exhibit for each other gives a lot of Dimitri/Adeline vibes.
My betas absolutely loved their dynamic, and I can't wait to sharpen it up and share it with you.
October 26, 2025
Wow. This book wrecked me in the best possible way. To Kill a Prince is everything I love about a slow-burn, star-crossed romance. It is achingly emotional, tender, and filled with quiet moments that hit like a punch to the chest. It’s about two people who should never fall in love and yet somehow, they become each other’s safe place in a world built on lies.
Wren and Cassiel’s relationship unfolds with this beautiful mix of patience and tension. There’s so much yearning here; comfort, trust, love built through shared pain and vulnerability. I was completely drawn in by how they helped each other heal, even as you know deep down it’s all going to crumble. And when it does? It hurts. Macdonald knows exactly how to twist the knife emotionally without ever losing that thread of hope that keeps you desperate for more.
It’s tender, tragic, and utterly captivating., An absolutely perfect blend of sweetness and sorrow. I need the next book immediately.
Thank you to the author and booksprout for the complimentary pre-released copy. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
Wren and Cassiel’s relationship unfolds with this beautiful mix of patience and tension. There’s so much yearning here; comfort, trust, love built through shared pain and vulnerability. I was completely drawn in by how they helped each other heal, even as you know deep down it’s all going to crumble. And when it does? It hurts. Macdonald knows exactly how to twist the knife emotionally without ever losing that thread of hope that keeps you desperate for more.
It’s tender, tragic, and utterly captivating., An absolutely perfect blend of sweetness and sorrow. I need the next book immediately.
Thank you to the author and booksprout for the complimentary pre-released copy. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
October 24, 2025
**I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.**
The Fae/fey are one of my favorites to read about. Having read one or two of author Katherine Macdonald’s fae series, I was looking forward to reading this new story and I was not disappointed.
I enjoyed the banter between them, and how they slowly start liking each other, it’s definitely a slow burn. Cassiel is slowly falling for Wren, someone he can’t see, while Wren is also doing the same but towards the enemy of her people and the person who she will end up betraying/killing one day.
They’re both scarred, Cassiel from the night he was cursed and Wren from when her mother died in a fire. The struggles that Cassiel goes thru from the accident/curse and being blind were well portrayed. I felt myself rooting for Cassiel to get better and improve from his self-wallowing from when he was first introduced. Cassiel gets trained to fight by using his senses by Wren and improves greatly, and he even gets comfortable walking around the castle with his cane and not being a shut in. He learns to live again.
All the characters are likable, especially Cassiel’s family, I really enjoyed whenever Runara showed up, she was well written as a child. For being the “bad guys”, the royal family are shown as a great caring family. Hopefully the next book will go more into detail of what happened between the humans and fey for their animosity towards each other.
Still, I felt myself being suspicious of the grandmother and Zephyr. Since they can’t lie they have to work around that. But at the same time the story felt like the humans didn’t like the fey because they had power and magic, and the fey wanted more power and to be left alone. The whole prophecy of a half fey infiltrating the castle made me think that it has double meaning. Them being fey, it feels like they should know better, prophecies usually aren’t so literal, and Wren and Cass had such a good thing going, too, but it was ruined thanks to the grandmother’s need for revenge.
The juxtaposition of the fae not being able to lie, Wren being half-fae and able to lie because of her human side, and the fact that they’re all lying to each other and themselves is not lost on us. Wren struggles with being half and not fitting in with either side. Cass wants to be normal and see again, not be a burden and need protecting, but he’s stuck and scared. Seeing them together near the end was nice even if it was short lived.
So much happened, and with the way things ended it makes me want to read the sequel already. From enemies to lovers to enemies again, I’m looking forward to the both of them getting their happy ending together. Wren and Cassiel deserve to be happy after all they went through and still have to come.
The Fae/fey are one of my favorites to read about. Having read one or two of author Katherine Macdonald’s fae series, I was looking forward to reading this new story and I was not disappointed.
I enjoyed the banter between them, and how they slowly start liking each other, it’s definitely a slow burn. Cassiel is slowly falling for Wren, someone he can’t see, while Wren is also doing the same but towards the enemy of her people and the person who she will end up betraying/killing one day.
They’re both scarred, Cassiel from the night he was cursed and Wren from when her mother died in a fire. The struggles that Cassiel goes thru from the accident/curse and being blind were well portrayed. I felt myself rooting for Cassiel to get better and improve from his self-wallowing from when he was first introduced. Cassiel gets trained to fight by using his senses by Wren and improves greatly, and he even gets comfortable walking around the castle with his cane and not being a shut in. He learns to live again.
All the characters are likable, especially Cassiel’s family, I really enjoyed whenever Runara showed up, she was well written as a child. For being the “bad guys”, the royal family are shown as a great caring family. Hopefully the next book will go more into detail of what happened between the humans and fey for their animosity towards each other.
Still, I felt myself being suspicious of the grandmother and Zephyr. Since they can’t lie they have to work around that. But at the same time the story felt like the humans didn’t like the fey because they had power and magic, and the fey wanted more power and to be left alone. The whole prophecy of a half fey infiltrating the castle made me think that it has double meaning. Them being fey, it feels like they should know better, prophecies usually aren’t so literal, and Wren and Cass had such a good thing going, too, but it was ruined thanks to the grandmother’s need for revenge.
The juxtaposition of the fae not being able to lie, Wren being half-fae and able to lie because of her human side, and the fact that they’re all lying to each other and themselves is not lost on us. Wren struggles with being half and not fitting in with either side. Cass wants to be normal and see again, not be a burden and need protecting, but he’s stuck and scared. Seeing them together near the end was nice even if it was short lived.
So much happened, and with the way things ended it makes me want to read the sequel already. From enemies to lovers to enemies again, I’m looking forward to the both of them getting their happy ending together. Wren and Cassiel deserve to be happy after all they went through and still have to come.
July 17, 2026
If you're in the mood for a break from the smoldering villain and need a nice guy that's unfortunately been reduced to a reclusive lifestyle after losing his sight from an enemy attack, Cassiel is your man. He’s a softie, wrapped up in green flags with a golden bow. The story is told through a dual first person pov and his part is ev-ver-ee-thing.
Wren is a tender hearted fmc who can handle her own. If she loves you, she’ll save you. If she doesn’t, you’re doomed.
I was hooked from the very first page. Absolutely giddy over the banter and swept away by the romance.
My jaw shall lie shattered on the floor if this book does not end up being my favorite read for all of 2026. I give it all the stars. The bar has been set. Book two is an instant preorder.
Wren is a tender hearted fmc who can handle her own. If she loves you, she’ll save you. If she doesn’t, you’re doomed.
I was hooked from the very first page. Absolutely giddy over the banter and swept away by the romance.
My jaw shall lie shattered on the floor if this book does not end up being my favorite read for all of 2026. I give it all the stars. The bar has been set. Book two is an instant preorder.
October 25, 2025
♾️⭐️
I won this book through a Goodreads giveaway in exchange for an honest review. Thanks for choosing me.
It's been an absolute honor to spend time with Wren and Cassiel. She's fierce and possibly a little misled and slightly lost. He's intelligent and caring and possibly slightly lost, too.
While I am sympathetic to Wren's situation, I admit I yelled at her repeatedly. As for Cassiel, my heart broke for him, so profundly I wasn't sure it would ever mend. It still hasn't. When I thought it would, it simply didn't. I was given a reprieve for a few moments, and then shortly thereafter, it was decimated all over again. He's blinded, and we still don't exactly know why by the end other than it has to do with some sick twisted revenge plot. All I am sure of is that he didn't deserve any of what he was made to endure. Cassiel is sweet and good-hearted. The man is a painter and a poet even if he chooses to deny it. He cares about books and makes sure they are respected. He's a man after my own heart. Wren's plight was tough. She was quite literally used as a pawn in a vicious game of betrayal by her family. She didn't deserve that. At all.
I loved all of the characters in this novel except for one. Evander and Runara captured my heart very early on. Zeph, my dear, you're there too. I loved the queen and Dain. I want to strangle the grandmother. She is evil. Plain and simple. Your thirst for vengeance should NEVER surmount your love for your family. Period.
I know their journey isn't over. I know there will most likely be grieving, groveling, and a whole lot of darkness before Cassiel and Wren can walk into the light together. For now, I will sit and grieve with Cass as he works through his muddled thoughts and broken heart. I will sit with Wren as she works up the courage to fight for herself and for Cassiel as she pieces herself back together after all the betrayal. I will count the days until I can return to them, and I will try to mend my broken heart.
This book changed something in me. It is stunning. It is an absolute masterpiece. I won't ever stop thinking of this book. It's captured my heart and soul. ❤️
I won this book through a Goodreads giveaway in exchange for an honest review. Thanks for choosing me.
It's been an absolute honor to spend time with Wren and Cassiel. She's fierce and possibly a little misled and slightly lost. He's intelligent and caring and possibly slightly lost, too.
While I am sympathetic to Wren's situation, I admit I yelled at her repeatedly. As for Cassiel, my heart broke for him, so profundly I wasn't sure it would ever mend. It still hasn't. When I thought it would, it simply didn't. I was given a reprieve for a few moments, and then shortly thereafter, it was decimated all over again. He's blinded, and we still don't exactly know why by the end other than it has to do with some sick twisted revenge plot. All I am sure of is that he didn't deserve any of what he was made to endure. Cassiel is sweet and good-hearted. The man is a painter and a poet even if he chooses to deny it. He cares about books and makes sure they are respected. He's a man after my own heart. Wren's plight was tough. She was quite literally used as a pawn in a vicious game of betrayal by her family. She didn't deserve that. At all.
I loved all of the characters in this novel except for one. Evander and Runara captured my heart very early on. Zeph, my dear, you're there too. I loved the queen and Dain. I want to strangle the grandmother. She is evil. Plain and simple. Your thirst for vengeance should NEVER surmount your love for your family. Period.
I know their journey isn't over. I know there will most likely be grieving, groveling, and a whole lot of darkness before Cassiel and Wren can walk into the light together. For now, I will sit and grieve with Cass as he works through his muddled thoughts and broken heart. I will sit with Wren as she works up the courage to fight for herself and for Cassiel as she pieces herself back together after all the betrayal. I will count the days until I can return to them, and I will try to mend my broken heart.
This book changed something in me. It is stunning. It is an absolute masterpiece. I won't ever stop thinking of this book. It's captured my heart and soul. ❤️
September 20, 2025
Utterly Addictive, Enchanting, and Impossible to Put Down
I cannot get enough of To Kill a Prince by Katherine Macdonald. This book completely swept me off my feet and dragged me headfirst into a world of magic, betrayal, tension, and slow-burning romance—and I loved every minute of it.
From the very first chapter, the story pulls you in with its atmospheric writing and gripping emotional stakes. The world building is lush and imaginative, filled with dark secrets, dangerous alliances, and the kind of simmering magic that feels alive on the page. Macdonald has a gift for creating a world that feels both fantastical and deeply personal—full of wonder, but also heart breaking real.
The characters? Absolutely unforgettable. The main heroine is fierce, intelligent, and emotionally layered—someone you root for with your whole heart. And the prince… where do I even start? The tension between them is unreal—charged, complicated, and so addicting. Their dynamic had me holding my breath, flipping pages way past midnight just to see what would happen next.
The political intrigue, the forbidden magic, the enemies-to-lovers tension—it’s all here, and done so well. Every chapter builds on the last, and just when you think you know where the story is going, it throws a curve ball that leaves you desperate for more. I was completely immersed in the drama, the stakes, the emotional highs and lows. This book gave me everything I crave in fantasy.
I honestly didn’t want it to end. And the moment I turned the final page, I was already reaching for the next book. Katherine Macdonald has created something truly special here—a story that’s as spellbinding as it is emotionally resonant.
If you love fantasy with rich world building, unforgettable characters, and the kind of slow-burn romance that hurts in the best way, To Kill a Prince is an absolute must-read. Five stars, no hesitation. I’m obsessed!!
Enemies to Lovers 💔🔥
They’re supposed to hate each other—and they do—but that chemistry? Undeniable.
Slow Burn Romance ⏳❤️🔥
Fierce, Flawed Heroine 🗡️👑
Morally Gray Prince 👑⚔️
Political Intrigue & Betrayal 🕰️🗡️
Hidden Magic / Forbidden Power 🔮🩸
Enemies Forced to Work Together 🤝🖤
Rebellion / Rising Tension 🔥👀
High Stakes Prophecy or Destiny 📜🌒
Angst & Longing 🖤😩
Dark Fantasy Vibes 🌑🕯️
I cannot get enough of To Kill a Prince by Katherine Macdonald. This book completely swept me off my feet and dragged me headfirst into a world of magic, betrayal, tension, and slow-burning romance—and I loved every minute of it.
From the very first chapter, the story pulls you in with its atmospheric writing and gripping emotional stakes. The world building is lush and imaginative, filled with dark secrets, dangerous alliances, and the kind of simmering magic that feels alive on the page. Macdonald has a gift for creating a world that feels both fantastical and deeply personal—full of wonder, but also heart breaking real.
The characters? Absolutely unforgettable. The main heroine is fierce, intelligent, and emotionally layered—someone you root for with your whole heart. And the prince… where do I even start? The tension between them is unreal—charged, complicated, and so addicting. Their dynamic had me holding my breath, flipping pages way past midnight just to see what would happen next.
The political intrigue, the forbidden magic, the enemies-to-lovers tension—it’s all here, and done so well. Every chapter builds on the last, and just when you think you know where the story is going, it throws a curve ball that leaves you desperate for more. I was completely immersed in the drama, the stakes, the emotional highs and lows. This book gave me everything I crave in fantasy.
I honestly didn’t want it to end. And the moment I turned the final page, I was already reaching for the next book. Katherine Macdonald has created something truly special here—a story that’s as spellbinding as it is emotionally resonant.
If you love fantasy with rich world building, unforgettable characters, and the kind of slow-burn romance that hurts in the best way, To Kill a Prince is an absolute must-read. Five stars, no hesitation. I’m obsessed!!
Enemies to Lovers 💔🔥
They’re supposed to hate each other—and they do—but that chemistry? Undeniable.
Slow Burn Romance ⏳❤️🔥
Fierce, Flawed Heroine 🗡️👑
Morally Gray Prince 👑⚔️
Political Intrigue & Betrayal 🕰️🗡️
Hidden Magic / Forbidden Power 🔮🩸
Enemies Forced to Work Together 🤝🖤
Rebellion / Rising Tension 🔥👀
High Stakes Prophecy or Destiny 📜🌒
Angst & Longing 🖤😩
Dark Fantasy Vibes 🌑🕯️
October 25, 2025
“…do not be ashamed of the things that have hurt you.”
“To Kill a Prince,” by Katherine Macdonald
This book was amazing! Number 1, I loved how the MMC was blind, the amazing disability rep Katherine Macdonald puts in her book warms my heart. He was so easy to love for me even though he was so grumpy. Number 2, I adored that it was a bodyguard x prince plot, it’s so nice to read a book where the FMC is the protector of the MMC. Number 3. The characters were amazing. He’s super grumpy and she’s pretending to be stronger than she actually is. I loved how they developed and I loved how they interacted with each other. The slowburn romance was so good. Great for readers who love the characters being the vocal point of the book. The ending was everything and more, can’t wait for book 2. Absolutely amazing, 5 out of 5 stars.
-Enemies To Lovers
-Fae
-Disabled MMC
-Magic
-Bodyguard X Prince
-Dual POV
-Slowburn
-Forbidden Romance
Thank you for the ARC, Booksprout.
“It’s hard to accept help from others when you’re not used to it…”
“…but knowing something and surrendering to it are different things.”
“We all fight different kinds of battles.”
“That’s the scariest thing about being in the dark. The exposure. Knowing that something else can see you, and you’re entirely powerless against them.”
“I don’t know how to stop waiting for her.”
“To Kill a Prince,” by Katherine Macdonald
This book was amazing! Number 1, I loved how the MMC was blind, the amazing disability rep Katherine Macdonald puts in her book warms my heart. He was so easy to love for me even though he was so grumpy. Number 2, I adored that it was a bodyguard x prince plot, it’s so nice to read a book where the FMC is the protector of the MMC. Number 3. The characters were amazing. He’s super grumpy and she’s pretending to be stronger than she actually is. I loved how they developed and I loved how they interacted with each other. The slowburn romance was so good. Great for readers who love the characters being the vocal point of the book. The ending was everything and more, can’t wait for book 2. Absolutely amazing, 5 out of 5 stars.
-Enemies To Lovers
-Fae
-Disabled MMC
-Magic
-Bodyguard X Prince
-Dual POV
-Slowburn
-Forbidden Romance
Thank you for the ARC, Booksprout.
“It’s hard to accept help from others when you’re not used to it…”
“…but knowing something and surrendering to it are different things.”
“We all fight different kinds of battles.”
“That’s the scariest thing about being in the dark. The exposure. Knowing that something else can see you, and you’re entirely powerless against them.”
“I don’t know how to stop waiting for her.”
October 26, 2025
Katherine MacDonald is one of those automatic reads for me so when I saw a new ARC from her, I immediately jumped on it. I’m leaving a review voluntarily.
The author handles Fae/Fey so damn well. There’s always an intricacy to their culture which I find fascinating and the ways that they get around the “cannot lie” rule is a testament to the author’s skill. I still am not sure how she keeps everything straight but her consistency in her stories is spot on.
And do is the banter. The way she does strong female characters while keeping them unique is such a joy to read. Wren is no exception. And the fact she doesn’t have the traditional Fae weaknesses due to being half-Fae introduces such juicy drama. And I am here for it. Even if Wren needs to be smacked upside the head a few times.
And Cassiel. This man deserves the world and the fact the world had been so cruel to him is an injustice. He’s a soft hearted character (and I am always a sucker for those). I wanted to just pull him into my arms the whole book and tell him how much better he deserves it. I just know he’s going to break my heart even more by the end of everything because the author is sadistic in the best of ways. (Don’t ever change Macdonald!)
And the grandmother…the vile ways I have imagined her meeting her end as I read should probably be illegal. But if I hate a character that much…that’s some damn good writing.
Can’t wait for more
The author handles Fae/Fey so damn well. There’s always an intricacy to their culture which I find fascinating and the ways that they get around the “cannot lie” rule is a testament to the author’s skill. I still am not sure how she keeps everything straight but her consistency in her stories is spot on.
And do is the banter. The way she does strong female characters while keeping them unique is such a joy to read. Wren is no exception. And the fact she doesn’t have the traditional Fae weaknesses due to being half-Fae introduces such juicy drama. And I am here for it. Even if Wren needs to be smacked upside the head a few times.
And Cassiel. This man deserves the world and the fact the world had been so cruel to him is an injustice. He’s a soft hearted character (and I am always a sucker for those). I wanted to just pull him into my arms the whole book and tell him how much better he deserves it. I just know he’s going to break my heart even more by the end of everything because the author is sadistic in the best of ways. (Don’t ever change Macdonald!)
And the grandmother…the vile ways I have imagined her meeting her end as I read should probably be illegal. But if I hate a character that much…that’s some damn good writing.
Can’t wait for more
October 26, 2025
I'm both grateful to have been given an advance reading copy and I ended the book screaming internally. I contain multitudes.
It's a great story, and great characters. I loved seeing Wren and Cassiel both rediscover their humanity alongside each other. First in annoyance and then through friendship. The development of their relationship was lovely, and seeing them both starting to like and trust each other, despite their wishes, was beautiful.
"The quiet of the night settles between us, and I find I don’t need to see the stars to know what lies between them, or to know beyond a shadow of a doubt that this is one of the most beautiful nights I’ve ever experienced."
The other characters were also well done, and I liked the friendships developed with Dain and Evander, and even Runara. She's also got a fire and a story in her, and I hope it gets explored in the next book.
I have so many questions about half-fey! And about the royal ancestor and their fey-lover. There's so many bits of world building that offers the opportunity for a story.
All in all I think it's a great story and a great start to a series!
It's a great story, and great characters. I loved seeing Wren and Cassiel both rediscover their humanity alongside each other. First in annoyance and then through friendship. The development of their relationship was lovely, and seeing them both starting to like and trust each other, despite their wishes, was beautiful.
"The quiet of the night settles between us, and I find I don’t need to see the stars to know what lies between them, or to know beyond a shadow of a doubt that this is one of the most beautiful nights I’ve ever experienced."
The other characters were also well done, and I liked the friendships developed with Dain and Evander, and even Runara. She's also got a fire and a story in her, and I hope it gets explored in the next book.
I have so many questions about half-fey! And about the royal ancestor and their fey-lover. There's so many bits of world building that offers the opportunity for a story.
All in all I think it's a great story and a great start to a series!
October 20, 2025
I absolutely loved this book, and it has become my second favorite series by Katherine Macdonald after the “A Throne of Pearls and Bones” series. It captivated me from the very beginning and simply couldn't put the book down. The characters were wonderfully developed, and Cassiel's struggles with sudden blindness were very relatable. Wren's backstory was also sad and well written. It's an enemies-to-lovers romance in which Wren, who is half fae and half human, is sent by her grandmother to be a guard for the human prince Cassiel. I loved how the relationship between Wren and Cassiel developed - from hatred to something more - and how Wren helped him live again. The banter between them is fantastically written. I also grew very fond of Runara and her relationship with her brothers and with Wren. I just couldn't put this book down, and after that ending, I can't wait to read the second book!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 25, 2025
I received an eARC copy of this book via BookSprout, thank you Katherine Macdonald, and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I thoroughly enjoyed the highly descriptive and sometimes wistful, poetic writing.
Both Wren’s and Cassiel’s POV’s drew me in straight away.
I find myself partial to dual/multi POV books, and this read has hit this partiality immensely.
I could feel the emotions throughout and sincerely need the next book to know what happens next.
I thoroughly enjoyed the highly descriptive and sometimes wistful, poetic writing.
Both Wren’s and Cassiel’s POV’s drew me in straight away.
I find myself partial to dual/multi POV books, and this read has hit this partiality immensely.
I could feel the emotions throughout and sincerely need the next book to know what happens next.
October 13, 2025
A beautiful story that I can't wait to finish. I am a fan of Katherine Macdonald so I'm not surprised I enjoyed this book. It started with some points that I have come to love about her tales. Our heroine is often a fighter. There is no meek damsel in distress, not to say she can't be soft and need help but a woman being a knight or guard seems to be something that she loves to use.
Wren is part fey part human and has never felt like she belonged in either world. So when she is needed as the only fey that can infiltrate the castle and get close to the prince she obeys and takes the mission even not knowing what they want her to really do. Wren becomes the personal guard to the recently blinded prince Cassiel. His eyesight was taken by the fey and Wren slowly starts to help the prince realize he can still lead a life even if it's different from the one he used to be able to see.
The story does start slowly. There is a lot of build up for the reader to really find out anything. However it's a great story of character. We get to know both Wren and Cassiel as this is really about them, their story. We also get to fall a little bit in love. Of course this story is not finished by the end there are obstacles that need to be overcome and as Wren needs to choose between her fey family and the human's she has grown to care for can she Kill a Prince or be Crowned a Traitor?
Wren is part fey part human and has never felt like she belonged in either world. So when she is needed as the only fey that can infiltrate the castle and get close to the prince she obeys and takes the mission even not knowing what they want her to really do. Wren becomes the personal guard to the recently blinded prince Cassiel. His eyesight was taken by the fey and Wren slowly starts to help the prince realize he can still lead a life even if it's different from the one he used to be able to see.
The story does start slowly. There is a lot of build up for the reader to really find out anything. However it's a great story of character. We get to know both Wren and Cassiel as this is really about them, their story. We also get to fall a little bit in love. Of course this story is not finished by the end there are obstacles that need to be overcome and as Wren needs to choose between her fey family and the human's she has grown to care for can she Kill a Prince or be Crowned a Traitor?
October 14, 2025
To Kill A Prince is a masterpiece of beautiful prose and fantastic romantasy storytelling. It weaves witty banter between the yearning of a slow burn romance in a way that will both captivate and emotionally devastate you in turn.
Wren’s character particularly resonated with me and I am sure she will be relatable to anyone who feels as if they are a part of two worlds but never quite comfortable in either of them. As a half fae human, she knows what it is like to never measure up to the expectations of others and never exactly feel a sense of belonging in any of those worlds.
Cassiel’s character is also very well done. I cannot imagine what it would be like to be suddenly and traumatically rendered blind, but I do think Cassiel’s reactions and experience are written in a thoughtful and realistic way. I also loved the way Wren interacted with him and challenged him to rely on his other senses and the way he, in turn, taught her to see her world in a completely different light.
Of course the ending absolutely broke me even though I was fully prepared for this beautiful house of cards to come tumbling down in a mess of secrets and devastation.
So if you love books with intrigue, magic, romance and heartbreak (with a happily ever after)—I wholeheartedly recommend this book.
Wren’s character particularly resonated with me and I am sure she will be relatable to anyone who feels as if they are a part of two worlds but never quite comfortable in either of them. As a half fae human, she knows what it is like to never measure up to the expectations of others and never exactly feel a sense of belonging in any of those worlds.
Cassiel’s character is also very well done. I cannot imagine what it would be like to be suddenly and traumatically rendered blind, but I do think Cassiel’s reactions and experience are written in a thoughtful and realistic way. I also loved the way Wren interacted with him and challenged him to rely on his other senses and the way he, in turn, taught her to see her world in a completely different light.
Of course the ending absolutely broke me even though I was fully prepared for this beautiful house of cards to come tumbling down in a mess of secrets and devastation.
So if you love books with intrigue, magic, romance and heartbreak (with a happily ever after)—I wholeheartedly recommend this book.
October 13, 2025
I received this book via a Goodreads giveaway and it absolutely blew me away. What an incredible story. The characters are amazing and deep, the setting is beautifully constructed, and I can’t believe the ending. I will be recommending this book to anyone who likes fantasy reads, and eagerly await the sequel. I would give it more stars if I could.
October 23, 2025
Have you ever felt caught between two places, two cultures - two families even? When I was 20, I left France and went to live abroad. Past the initial culture shock, I fell in love with the UK, and both countries somehow started to feel like home - and yet, neither of them really was anymore. I was a little bit foreign in both places.
Maybe that’s why TO KILL A PRINCE resonated so strongly with me.
The FMC, Wren, is half fae, half human. While she’s grown up with the fae side of her family, they have never really accepted her - but are happy to use her gifts. When her grandmother sends her to spy on and befriend a blind human prince, Wren does not plan on letting herself become emotionally entangled with the royal family. But some people have a way of getting under your skin. And soon Wren finds herself torn between her fae heritage and the human she’s come to love.
To be fair I don’t think anyone could resist Cassiel. I was utterly seduced by this character. Clever, bookish, brave, loyal, honest… Always fantastic to see some disability rep, particularly in a MC. Both Cassiel’s vulnerability and his resilience were very well and sensitively portrayed, and the connection he forged with Wren was so much richer for it.
I do like stories with real partnerships at their heart, and this was exactly that. Wren and Cassiel’s relationship progressed slowly and felt very genuine. From two people thrown together and lashing out, to tentative friendship, and the gradual realisation that it had morphed into something else.
Katherine Macdonald’s writing style is crystal clear, with a natural, smooth flow. The world building is done subtly throughout the book. The interactions between the MCs are full of banter, and the secondary characters, in particular Cassiel’s family, well fleshed out.
The dialogues are wonderfully life-like and often very funny. One example amongst many:
“Wren is as pretty as a dragon.”
“Dragons aren’t pretty, Ru,” I say.
“I think you’re reading the wrong books, brother.”
Best of all, I felt like this was a very genuine, tender, surprisingly honest (given the premise), romance. I felt a strong emotional connection to both MCs, which is actually quite rare. I can’t wait for book 2 and will definitely buy other books from this author! Thank you Katherine for this wonderful story!
Maybe that’s why TO KILL A PRINCE resonated so strongly with me.
The FMC, Wren, is half fae, half human. While she’s grown up with the fae side of her family, they have never really accepted her - but are happy to use her gifts. When her grandmother sends her to spy on and befriend a blind human prince, Wren does not plan on letting herself become emotionally entangled with the royal family. But some people have a way of getting under your skin. And soon Wren finds herself torn between her fae heritage and the human she’s come to love.
To be fair I don’t think anyone could resist Cassiel. I was utterly seduced by this character. Clever, bookish, brave, loyal, honest… Always fantastic to see some disability rep, particularly in a MC. Both Cassiel’s vulnerability and his resilience were very well and sensitively portrayed, and the connection he forged with Wren was so much richer for it.
I do like stories with real partnerships at their heart, and this was exactly that. Wren and Cassiel’s relationship progressed slowly and felt very genuine. From two people thrown together and lashing out, to tentative friendship, and the gradual realisation that it had morphed into something else.
Katherine Macdonald’s writing style is crystal clear, with a natural, smooth flow. The world building is done subtly throughout the book. The interactions between the MCs are full of banter, and the secondary characters, in particular Cassiel’s family, well fleshed out.
The dialogues are wonderfully life-like and often very funny. One example amongst many:
“Wren is as pretty as a dragon.”
“Dragons aren’t pretty, Ru,” I say.
“I think you’re reading the wrong books, brother.”
Best of all, I felt like this was a very genuine, tender, surprisingly honest (given the premise), romance. I felt a strong emotional connection to both MCs, which is actually quite rare. I can’t wait for book 2 and will definitely buy other books from this author! Thank you Katherine for this wonderful story!
July 24, 2026
I like to say “when in doubt, read a Katherine Macdonald book” because she’s one of the only few authors I can consistently rely on to deliver good books. And while I didn’t LOVE this one, I still had an enjoyable time reading it.
My issues with this book can be summarized as such: for one, the world felt very empty. There were basically no subplots, just the main plot described in the premise. Considering that this book is nearly 500 pages long, it resulted in a lot of drag and repetition. Cassiel and Wren train, Wren has off days, Cassiel sulks. Rinse repeat for 80% of the book.
Secondly, there were not enough characters to fill the story. There’s Wren and Cassiel, but other than that we don’t really get the opportunity to get close to anyone else. There’s Cassiel’s older brother, whom I quite liked, but we don’t get to know him at all other than his preference for men. He’s really only there to supplement Cassiel and Wren scenes, not to stand as his own character. Same with the little sister who has even fewer scenes. There is the guard who, again, does not exist other than to support the two main characters. No one else has any presence or leaves a lasting impression.
Thirdly, because of the unfortunate pacing as mentioned above, nothing really happens until the 80% mark, which is about 380~ pages in, but then after that a lot happens all at once. There’s this pivotal moment in the plot which finally brings some dearly desired momentum, and then that moment is interrupted by a shoehorned training sequence. Completely kills the pacing. And I’m going to be honest, I largely skimmed through that sequence.
Negatives aside, I LOVE the way Katherine Macdonald writes romance. I can always trust her books to have genuine yearning and an incredibly pure, loving romance. The love she writes is never toxic or jealous, it’s kind and compassionate and so tender. This book was no exception. I loved watching the romance unfold, especially because both love interests are genuinely likeable and relatable characters.
My issues with this book can be summarized as such: for one, the world felt very empty. There were basically no subplots, just the main plot described in the premise. Considering that this book is nearly 500 pages long, it resulted in a lot of drag and repetition. Cassiel and Wren train, Wren has off days, Cassiel sulks. Rinse repeat for 80% of the book.
Secondly, there were not enough characters to fill the story. There’s Wren and Cassiel, but other than that we don’t really get the opportunity to get close to anyone else. There’s Cassiel’s older brother, whom I quite liked, but we don’t get to know him at all other than his preference for men. He’s really only there to supplement Cassiel and Wren scenes, not to stand as his own character. Same with the little sister who has even fewer scenes. There is the guard who, again, does not exist other than to support the two main characters. No one else has any presence or leaves a lasting impression.
Thirdly, because of the unfortunate pacing as mentioned above, nothing really happens until the 80% mark, which is about 380~ pages in, but then after that a lot happens all at once. There’s this pivotal moment in the plot which finally brings some dearly desired momentum, and then that moment is interrupted by a shoehorned training sequence. Completely kills the pacing. And I’m going to be honest, I largely skimmed through that sequence.
Negatives aside, I LOVE the way Katherine Macdonald writes romance. I can always trust her books to have genuine yearning and an incredibly pure, loving romance. The love she writes is never toxic or jealous, it’s kind and compassionate and so tender. This book was no exception. I loved watching the romance unfold, especially because both love interests are genuinely likeable and relatable characters.
September 21, 2025
There is nothing more special than picking up a book, reading it, and realizing it has completely consumed you. To Kill a Prince did exactly that, and I couldn’t put it down. Any free moment in my day, I had to pick it back up.
Katherine Macdonald has such a gift for sculpting characters into something tangible and deeply human. I have read other books by this author, and this isn't the first book of hers that I have loved, and it surely won't be the last.
This book is beautifully bittersweet. On the surface, it’s about two people from opposite ends of society - Wren, a half-fey assassin sent to infiltrate the royal court, and Cassiel, a sharp-tongued prince recently blinded by the fae. Neither asked for the life they were given, yet both are forced to face what it means to question the truths they’ve been raised to believe. Through tension, trust, and honesty, our characters learn that maybe love is enough to get through anything, or choose their own paths in life.
Wren is fiery, relatable, and unapologetically strong, exactly the kind of FMC I adore. Cassiel, is one of the most compelling MMCs I’ve read in a while: brilliant, stubborn, wounded, and yet achingly vulnerable. The way their relationship unfolds through honesty, sharp banter, and stolen moments of trust had me completely hooked. I especially loved the representation of a blind male lead; it brought such depth and nuance to his character, and it was refreshing to see handled with care.
Yes, there’s politics and looming war, but what really makes this book shine are the quiet, intimate moments that build such a tender bond between Wren and Cassiel. It’s those scenes that made me fall in love with their story.
The ending felt rushed, or maybe that's because I didn't want it to end. Either way, I’m eagerly awaiting book two, and I can’t wait for other readers to get swept up in this beautiful tale.
Katherine Macdonald has such a gift for sculpting characters into something tangible and deeply human. I have read other books by this author, and this isn't the first book of hers that I have loved, and it surely won't be the last.
This book is beautifully bittersweet. On the surface, it’s about two people from opposite ends of society - Wren, a half-fey assassin sent to infiltrate the royal court, and Cassiel, a sharp-tongued prince recently blinded by the fae. Neither asked for the life they were given, yet both are forced to face what it means to question the truths they’ve been raised to believe. Through tension, trust, and honesty, our characters learn that maybe love is enough to get through anything, or choose their own paths in life.
Wren is fiery, relatable, and unapologetically strong, exactly the kind of FMC I adore. Cassiel, is one of the most compelling MMCs I’ve read in a while: brilliant, stubborn, wounded, and yet achingly vulnerable. The way their relationship unfolds through honesty, sharp banter, and stolen moments of trust had me completely hooked. I especially loved the representation of a blind male lead; it brought such depth and nuance to his character, and it was refreshing to see handled with care.
Yes, there’s politics and looming war, but what really makes this book shine are the quiet, intimate moments that build such a tender bond between Wren and Cassiel. It’s those scenes that made me fall in love with their story.
The ending felt rushed, or maybe that's because I didn't want it to end. Either way, I’m eagerly awaiting book two, and I can’t wait for other readers to get swept up in this beautiful tale.
September 23, 2025
Bodyguard x Prince
Grumpy x Sunshine
Hidden Identity
Half Fae FMC x Human MMC
Blind MMC
Banter
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶
Yes, another 5 star review for Katherine Macdonald! I just know I'll always get solid character building, growing suspense, and an intense drama from her and this one delivered as all the others have!
A half fae bodyguard , Wren, is sent undercover to protect the human Prince, Cassiel. To add to the drama, he was blinded by the fae, and humans and fae aren't on the best terms. So a bit of star crossed lovers, Grumpy x Sunshine blossoms here. Tight banter as always, which helps showcase the type of humor our leads have. Wren has parts of herself she's coming to terms with, so she has a journey of her own.
Again I absolutely love the MMC, Cassiel. He has such a soft and caring heart, despite the very difficult adjustment of being blind. I liked that we explored some of his angst, embarrassment, and frustration with it. It's a very hard thing to come to terms with. And the romantic notion that he can't see Wren and wants to so badly, tugs at your heart.
But they see eachother in other ways amd begin to really connect, and it happens so organically and lovely. There's suspense with the underlying attacks against human and fae, there's a beautiful slow burn, and a world with just the right amount of richness that's easy to follow.
There is another book to come which I'm so happy about because things are building in an exciting way! Love this story and where it's headed with the stakes amd tension rising!
Grumpy x Sunshine
Hidden Identity
Half Fae FMC x Human MMC
Blind MMC
Banter
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶
Yes, another 5 star review for Katherine Macdonald! I just know I'll always get solid character building, growing suspense, and an intense drama from her and this one delivered as all the others have!
A half fae bodyguard , Wren, is sent undercover to protect the human Prince, Cassiel. To add to the drama, he was blinded by the fae, and humans and fae aren't on the best terms. So a bit of star crossed lovers, Grumpy x Sunshine blossoms here. Tight banter as always, which helps showcase the type of humor our leads have. Wren has parts of herself she's coming to terms with, so she has a journey of her own.
Again I absolutely love the MMC, Cassiel. He has such a soft and caring heart, despite the very difficult adjustment of being blind. I liked that we explored some of his angst, embarrassment, and frustration with it. It's a very hard thing to come to terms with. And the romantic notion that he can't see Wren and wants to so badly, tugs at your heart.
But they see eachother in other ways amd begin to really connect, and it happens so organically and lovely. There's suspense with the underlying attacks against human and fae, there's a beautiful slow burn, and a world with just the right amount of richness that's easy to follow.
There is another book to come which I'm so happy about because things are building in an exciting way! Love this story and where it's headed with the stakes amd tension rising!
June 1, 2025
I was so lucky to have received To Kill a Prince as a Beta read because it was jaw dropping amazing.
I was blown away from page one! Like I was hooked! I cannot put into enough words how much I loved this book. The characters were absolutely everything and it was so easy to fall in love with them.
Wren is the bodyguard, Cassiel is the prince, and I absolutely fell in love with their dynamic. The character growth as well...*chef's kiss*. I thoroughly enjoyed watching these two grow into their feelings and vulnerabilities. It was completely magical.
Katherine Macdonald's writing is absolutely beautiful. It has a way to pull you into the story where you just become immediately invested. I literally did not want to put this book down.
I am a major banter girlie, and this book slayed! I was blushing and giggling and kicking my feet. I was swooning over these two so much.
And the side characters were just as well written that you just fall in love with them too. Dain and Evander were some of my favorite characters in this book because they brought so many smiles to my face.
Now this book definitely is not just sunshine and rainbows, it's also filled with pain, heartbreak, death, conflicting feelings, trauma. I felt the pain while reading and I cried so much towards the end. I absolutely highly recommend this book, it was amazing from start to finish.
I was blown away from page one! Like I was hooked! I cannot put into enough words how much I loved this book. The characters were absolutely everything and it was so easy to fall in love with them.
Wren is the bodyguard, Cassiel is the prince, and I absolutely fell in love with their dynamic. The character growth as well...*chef's kiss*. I thoroughly enjoyed watching these two grow into their feelings and vulnerabilities. It was completely magical.
Katherine Macdonald's writing is absolutely beautiful. It has a way to pull you into the story where you just become immediately invested. I literally did not want to put this book down.
I am a major banter girlie, and this book slayed! I was blushing and giggling and kicking my feet. I was swooning over these two so much.
And the side characters were just as well written that you just fall in love with them too. Dain and Evander were some of my favorite characters in this book because they brought so many smiles to my face.
Now this book definitely is not just sunshine and rainbows, it's also filled with pain, heartbreak, death, conflicting feelings, trauma. I felt the pain while reading and I cried so much towards the end. I absolutely highly recommend this book, it was amazing from start to finish.
September 27, 2025
The way I love this book!!!
The MCs are absolutely enthralling. Both are broken in some way (or in several), and it's through their growing bond that they're able to begin healing. The best way I can describe this book is an exploration of quiet strength: how others make us strong in ways we otherwise couldn't be. It's soft and flowing, washing over you so serenely as you get to know everyone and appreciate the magic of the world--and root for the romance you know is coming--that the sharp, emotional moments (and there are quite a few powerful, visceral moments) aren't only impacting characters on a page, but friends in a story you've become immersed in completely.
Wren and Cassiel's dynamic is *chef's kiss* so good, blending vulnerability with sass and YEARNING!!! The chemistry between them sizzles. Beyond our main pairing, the side characters are more than memorable, the world intriguing, and all of it just lovely.
I'm an avid reader of Kate's books. I've loved many of them, and her A Curse of Hope and Shadows series has a permanent hold on my heart. It's one of my favorite romantasies ever. So when I tell you this book rivals it? Know how much weight that carries. Read it. You will not regret it.
I had the opportunity to read an early copy of this book, and cannot wait to have a physical copy on my shelf!
The MCs are absolutely enthralling. Both are broken in some way (or in several), and it's through their growing bond that they're able to begin healing. The best way I can describe this book is an exploration of quiet strength: how others make us strong in ways we otherwise couldn't be. It's soft and flowing, washing over you so serenely as you get to know everyone and appreciate the magic of the world--and root for the romance you know is coming--that the sharp, emotional moments (and there are quite a few powerful, visceral moments) aren't only impacting characters on a page, but friends in a story you've become immersed in completely.
Wren and Cassiel's dynamic is *chef's kiss* so good, blending vulnerability with sass and YEARNING!!! The chemistry between them sizzles. Beyond our main pairing, the side characters are more than memorable, the world intriguing, and all of it just lovely.
I'm an avid reader of Kate's books. I've loved many of them, and her A Curse of Hope and Shadows series has a permanent hold on my heart. It's one of my favorite romantasies ever. So when I tell you this book rivals it? Know how much weight that carries. Read it. You will not regret it.
I had the opportunity to read an early copy of this book, and cannot wait to have a physical copy on my shelf!
December 13, 2025
This book had me in a chokehold! Here are some things that are true about my reading experience of To Kill a Prince by Katherine Macdonald: (1) it got me out of a reading slump (2) I obsessively read it on my comute to and from work for a week (2) I was ALMOST done when the train pulled into the station, so when I got to work, I sat my butt down on a bench and didn't move until I was finished because I couldn't bear not knowing how it ended.
Wren is a fun and multifaceted FMC with a great balance of vulnerability and bad*ssery. Cassiel is a DARLING (though you wouldn't know it at first) and a perfect green flag MMC — but with an appropriate amount of depth, complexity, and darkness. (I'm an angst girly, what can I say?)
The worldbuilding was fleshed out but not overwhelming, the descriptions were lush but not distracting, and I throughly enjoyed the reading experience from beginning to end. The fight scenes weren't boring despite the fact the book contained a lot of sparring. The romance was SWOON central.
Truth be told, when I woke up the next morning after finishing TKAP, I was STILL thinking about the ending, which absolutely DEVASTATED me. (And I won't say more about that bc we don't do spoilers here.)
Truly can't wait for book 2!!
Wren is a fun and multifaceted FMC with a great balance of vulnerability and bad*ssery. Cassiel is a DARLING (though you wouldn't know it at first) and a perfect green flag MMC — but with an appropriate amount of depth, complexity, and darkness. (I'm an angst girly, what can I say?)
The worldbuilding was fleshed out but not overwhelming, the descriptions were lush but not distracting, and I throughly enjoyed the reading experience from beginning to end. The fight scenes weren't boring despite the fact the book contained a lot of sparring. The romance was SWOON central.
Truth be told, when I woke up the next morning after finishing TKAP, I was STILL thinking about the ending, which absolutely DEVASTATED me. (And I won't say more about that bc we don't do spoilers here.)
Truly can't wait for book 2!!
July 1, 2026
This is the story of Prince Cassiel who has been blinded by the fae, and his personal bodyguard Wren who had a human mother and fae father. Wren is sent to work at the castle with orders to befriend the prince, and although she doesn’t know for sure, at some point she may be expected to kill him. As a half blood she isn’t affected by iron or the inability to lie, so she’s perfect to get access to the castle which has protections against allowing full blooded fae from entering. Brought up by her fae grandmother, she feels an obligation to help the fae in their fight against the humans, but falling in love with the Prince is a complication she never expected…….
This is a real slow-burn romance. The relationship between Wren and Cassiel builds beautifully with them helping each other to overcome their own issues, which in turn helps to bring them closer together. Just as you’re getting cosy, the proverbial hits the fan and the action kicks off leaving an outcome that makes you glad that the author is about to release the next book in the series.
With a great plot and excellent characters this all adds up to a story you won’t want to miss 🐈⬛.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a real slow-burn romance. The relationship between Wren and Cassiel builds beautifully with them helping each other to overcome their own issues, which in turn helps to bring them closer together. Just as you’re getting cosy, the proverbial hits the fan and the action kicks off leaving an outcome that makes you glad that the author is about to release the next book in the series.
With a great plot and excellent characters this all adds up to a story you won’t want to miss 🐈⬛.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 5, 2026
☆☆☆☆☆☆
Okay, this book is criminally underhyped! How could that happen? It is one of the best books I have ever read.
I love every character, every character development, the world, the relationships and the story. Its just perfect for me.
Cass is amazing and I love him so much! His struggles, his feelings and his progress are incredible and I love how intelligent and caring he is. The relationship with his little sister is so cute and was a beautiful part of the book. Also his relationship with his brother is so wonderful and warm. The whole family dynamic is beautiful and feels special.
Wren is so fierce, strong and beautiful. She is formidable even though her whole life was not warm and full of light. She is amazing and I love how she instantly questions what she thinks and recognises it is not as it seems and she wants to change the future for the better. Her way with Cass and Runara is amazing and really wonderful. She craves a feeling of belonging and that she can be herself and safe, but she doesn't let this drag her down, but instead uses it to be a great person.
The side characters are multi layered and I love how they added to the depth of the book and the struggles of the world.
I devoured it and I am sure I will read book 2 equally fast.
Okay, this book is criminally underhyped! How could that happen? It is one of the best books I have ever read.
I love every character, every character development, the world, the relationships and the story. Its just perfect for me.
Cass is amazing and I love him so much! His struggles, his feelings and his progress are incredible and I love how intelligent and caring he is. The relationship with his little sister is so cute and was a beautiful part of the book. Also his relationship with his brother is so wonderful and warm. The whole family dynamic is beautiful and feels special.
Wren is so fierce, strong and beautiful. She is formidable even though her whole life was not warm and full of light. She is amazing and I love how she instantly questions what she thinks and recognises it is not as it seems and she wants to change the future for the better. Her way with Cass and Runara is amazing and really wonderful. She craves a feeling of belonging and that she can be herself and safe, but she doesn't let this drag her down, but instead uses it to be a great person.
The side characters are multi layered and I love how they added to the depth of the book and the struggles of the world.
I devoured it and I am sure I will read book 2 equally fast.
October 15, 2025
This book drew me in from the first page, and the narrative quickly set up the plot and themes. I was immediately invested in the FMC Wren and enjoyed the slow-burn romance that developed between her and the Prince. It felt real, like we were slowly watching this grow into something special as the book progressed.
The narrative is well-written and descriptive. I was immersed in the world and wanted to learn more. The tensions between Fey and Human were recurring throughout the book, and the reader could feel the building narrative that would come with a Human falling in love with a Fey half-blood. The grief both characters carried due to tensions with the opposing side of the conflict added depth and danger.
I don't want to give any spoilers, but where the narrative is slower in pace, in places as we come to know the characters, the ending is explosive, and the drama builds so quickly that I was on the last page and wanted to know more. Can't wait for the sequel and see how the story plays out—a delightful read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The narrative is well-written and descriptive. I was immersed in the world and wanted to learn more. The tensions between Fey and Human were recurring throughout the book, and the reader could feel the building narrative that would come with a Human falling in love with a Fey half-blood. The grief both characters carried due to tensions with the opposing side of the conflict added depth and danger.
I don't want to give any spoilers, but where the narrative is slower in pace, in places as we come to know the characters, the ending is explosive, and the drama builds so quickly that I was on the last page and wanted to know more. Can't wait for the sequel and see how the story plays out—a delightful read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 26, 2025
I love Wren and Cassiel they are great characters and the development of their relationship felt authentic, but as much as I loved this book,I also found it hard to read as right from the start it is obvious tragedy lies ahead and by half way through I was completely invested in the characters so I didn’t want anything bad to happen. I think the world has enough sadness so I usually avoid reading anything sad but I also want books to feel real so sometimes sad stuff happens. it’s the anticipation of sad things I find especially hard hence it took me over a week to read this book. I’m looking forward to the next book and I was particularly impressed with the way Cassiel ´s blindness was portrayed. Blindness seems so much harder because he was an artist though of course the perception that helped him as an artist is still a dominant part of his character. Loved Evander too, his compassion and sense of duty. He’s the brother I would want if I had any brothers.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 30, 2025
Note: This is an ARC review. Thank you so much to the author and for BookSprouts for providing me a copy!
5⭐️
I LOVE THIS!!! I can't believe I have to wait for book 2 because I am on the edge with that ending! If you are a fan of strong bodyguard fey fmc, paired with blind but smart prince mmc, then this is absolutely perfect for you! Also, there is LOTS of banter and giggly moments, so it just ties up into a perfect quick read (I say this because I devoured it so fast 😆)
The plot is smooth flowing, not too fast, but not too slow either. One thing I love about this book is the banter. It was able to highlight each character's personality and their chemistry with other people. No continuity issues at all, and I do know that everything is thought out and written veeerryyyy well. Kudos to the author!!
I am a big fan of Wren and Cass! I actually find myself getting envious of their bond and the way they seem to just... sync to each other—definitely 𝘷𝘢𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘦𝘯.
I look forward to reading book 2 (If I do get another opportunity) and I think this book will do great!
5⭐️
I LOVE THIS!!! I can't believe I have to wait for book 2 because I am on the edge with that ending! If you are a fan of strong bodyguard fey fmc, paired with blind but smart prince mmc, then this is absolutely perfect for you! Also, there is LOTS of banter and giggly moments, so it just ties up into a perfect quick read (I say this because I devoured it so fast 😆)
The plot is smooth flowing, not too fast, but not too slow either. One thing I love about this book is the banter. It was able to highlight each character's personality and their chemistry with other people. No continuity issues at all, and I do know that everything is thought out and written veeerryyyy well. Kudos to the author!!
I am a big fan of Wren and Cass! I actually find myself getting envious of their bond and the way they seem to just... sync to each other—definitely 𝘷𝘢𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘦𝘯.
I look forward to reading book 2 (If I do get another opportunity) and I think this book will do great!
October 8, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for To Kill a Prince!
I was eagerly awaiting the release of this book, so I was over the moon to get my hands on an ARC to read early.
I was not disappointed!
This was such an easy read, I couldn’t put it down. At first, it felt cosy, with an impeccable slow burn romance where much of the story focuses on the main characters simply being together. But woven into what is actually a beautiful love story are high stakes that had me on the edge of my seat by the end. And that ending! I’m desperate for the next book already!
I loved how the story handled the MMC’s struggles, it added so much depth and heart to the romance without ever feeling heavy.
The banter had me giggling and kicking my legs. As always, Katherine Macdonald’s wit is 10/10! Perfect for lovers of the cruel prince.
Now, please excuse me while I go reread Forest of Dreams and Whispers to fill the hole To Kill a Prince has left behind.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. Thank you Booksprout and Author Katherine Macdonald.
I was eagerly awaiting the release of this book, so I was over the moon to get my hands on an ARC to read early.
I was not disappointed!
This was such an easy read, I couldn’t put it down. At first, it felt cosy, with an impeccable slow burn romance where much of the story focuses on the main characters simply being together. But woven into what is actually a beautiful love story are high stakes that had me on the edge of my seat by the end. And that ending! I’m desperate for the next book already!
I loved how the story handled the MMC’s struggles, it added so much depth and heart to the romance without ever feeling heavy.
The banter had me giggling and kicking my legs. As always, Katherine Macdonald’s wit is 10/10! Perfect for lovers of the cruel prince.
Now, please excuse me while I go reread Forest of Dreams and Whispers to fill the hole To Kill a Prince has left behind.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. Thank you Booksprout and Author Katherine Macdonald.
March 19, 2026
Utterly Rapturous
Utterly rapturous. Prose that reads like poetry, words that make your skin thrum and sing along with the characters, and a half-fey love story just complex enough to always keep you on your toes.
I’m dying for part 2 but dying FROM part 1!
It’s impossible not to fall in love with these characters. They realistically grow and shift their points of view (particularly Cass) in a very natural way. I love how Kate MacDonald’s characters are living and breathing beings and so very human. They are very real in their (sometimes flawed but justified) reasonings and carry such a heavy weight in their emotions as to make you swoon! How she writes about blindness so well without experiencing it is beyond me (though I’m not blind either, so take that for what it is). Her ability to slip into the skin and mind of her characters like they are real beings — and she, in fact, is the shapeshifter — is beyond me.
A true master of the art, she and her characters have captured my heart yet again and I am dying for more. 🥲
Utterly rapturous. Prose that reads like poetry, words that make your skin thrum and sing along with the characters, and a half-fey love story just complex enough to always keep you on your toes.
I’m dying for part 2 but dying FROM part 1!
It’s impossible not to fall in love with these characters. They realistically grow and shift their points of view (particularly Cass) in a very natural way. I love how Kate MacDonald’s characters are living and breathing beings and so very human. They are very real in their (sometimes flawed but justified) reasonings and carry such a heavy weight in their emotions as to make you swoon! How she writes about blindness so well without experiencing it is beyond me (though I’m not blind either, so take that for what it is). Her ability to slip into the skin and mind of her characters like they are real beings — and she, in fact, is the shapeshifter — is beyond me.
A true master of the art, she and her characters have captured my heart yet again and I am dying for more. 🥲
June 22, 2026
Disclaimer: I received an arc copy through booksprout in anticipation of the 2nd book (to crown a traitor) coming out and am voluntarily writing a review.
I absolutely loved this book. It was less focused around fantasy elements for the first majority and more so focused on the love story.
The love story was brilliant. It was a cosy slow burn that I wanted to have a hot drink and blanket to read, a forbidden romance between two born enemies except he didn’t know they were born enemies because she has a secret. Honestly, I would have been happy just reading about them for nearly 500 pages and having a happy ending because it had such a great vibe with really natural feeling banter between the characters.
After around page 300 I had to binge read the rest of this book in one sitting because I just couldn’t put it down, the action started and kept coming and we got to explore some magic and Moonhollow where the fay reside.
I’d 100% recommend this to anyone wanting a romance/fantasy with a heavy romance but no spice
I absolutely loved this book. It was less focused around fantasy elements for the first majority and more so focused on the love story.
The love story was brilliant. It was a cosy slow burn that I wanted to have a hot drink and blanket to read, a forbidden romance between two born enemies except he didn’t know they were born enemies because she has a secret. Honestly, I would have been happy just reading about them for nearly 500 pages and having a happy ending because it had such a great vibe with really natural feeling banter between the characters.
After around page 300 I had to binge read the rest of this book in one sitting because I just couldn’t put it down, the action started and kept coming and we got to explore some magic and Moonhollow where the fay reside.
I’d 100% recommend this to anyone wanting a romance/fantasy with a heavy romance but no spice
Read
September 20, 2025I went into this book completely blind (pun unintended, but I'll accept it). I didn't know what to expect from it, but it definitely wasn't such an unputdownable book. Such a good surprise!
I started reading, and then just couldn't stop. I kept telling myself I'd read just one more chapter, and then reading four or five.
I believe this was caused by both the great cast of characters (our protagonists, but also all the secondary characters) and my wish to just see some more fey secrets unveiled.
Because really this book balanced very well focusing on the characters and their relationship, while having a very intriguing plot.
It's just sad that it ends with practically no resolution, and now we must wait for the second book to come out :( I can't wait!
All in all, a great introduction to the world, and characters, and great plot that keeps you wondering. It's just not a whole story on its own.
I started reading, and then just couldn't stop. I kept telling myself I'd read just one more chapter, and then reading four or five.
I believe this was caused by both the great cast of characters (our protagonists, but also all the secondary characters) and my wish to just see some more fey secrets unveiled.
Because really this book balanced very well focusing on the characters and their relationship, while having a very intriguing plot.
It's just sad that it ends with practically no resolution, and now we must wait for the second book to come out :( I can't wait!
All in all, a great introduction to the world, and characters, and great plot that keeps you wondering. It's just not a whole story on its own.
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