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The Goldenchild Prophecy #2

The Queen's Huntsman: The Goldenchild Prophecy, Book 2

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"Tanya Anne Crosby has created her own mythology, where history and legend collide.” ( Whiskey & Wit Book Reviews )

All hope for the future seems lost when Gwendolyn’s prince turns out to be anything but charming. Only now, having united the dragon banners, she realizes too late that Loc is not her one true love....

Upon learning that his bride's hair is not gold, Loc reveals his true nature. Ambitious and cruel, he never wanted his ill-favored Cornish bride. Now, with the help of his greedy mistress, Estrildis, he's turned his gambits toward removing the old kings from their thrones, so he can rule in their stead. If his dull little bride provides nothing more, she'll deliver him Pretania's crown....

But prophecies are mercurial by nature, and the Fae have their own schemes....

As Gwendolyn feared, her father is ailing, and the land is suffering. To make matters worse, the half-blood Fae she fears holds her heart has abandoned her to her fate. To find her true destiny, Cornwall's new queen must face new trials at the Loegrian court, and the wiles of an ambitious mistress, in order to seek her true self and find her true love.

Part two of an exciting new series by Tanya Anne Crosby.

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First published July 5, 2022

393 people are currently reading
287 people want to read

About the author

Tanya Anne Crosby

152 books1,146 followers
Tanya Anne Crosby is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of thirty novels. She has been featured in magazines, such as People, Romantic Times and Publisher’s Weekly, and her books have been translated into eight languages. Her first novel was published in 1992 by Avon Books, where Tanya was hailed as “one of Avon’s fastest rising stars.” Her fourth book was chosen to launch the company’s Avon Romantic Treasure imprint.
Known for stories charged with emotion and humor and filled with flawed characters Tanya is an award-winning author, journalist, and editor, and her novels have garnered reader praise and glowing critical reviews. She and her writer husband split their time between Charleston, SC, where she was raised, and northern Michigan, where the couple make their home.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
Profile Image for Barbee.
783 reviews21 followers
July 10, 2022
Book: The Queen’s Huntsman
Author: Tanya Anne Crosby
Series: The Goldenchild Prophecy, Book #2
Release Date: July 26, 2022
Publisher: Oliver Heber Books
Book Length: 364 pages
Overall Rating: 5/5 Five Stars
Blog Rating: 5/5 Saltire Flags
Heat Rating: There is no romance or sexual contact in this book.

11th Century BC
Pretania- ancient Britainia
The Goldenchild Prophecy saga continues..

At he ending of book one, in The Cornish Princess, readers saw Gwendolyn’s new husband’s true vile nature and colors. Without Gwendolyn’s knowledge Loc ordered his brothers Kamber, Albanactu and his warriors to commit the most wicked and heinous crimes at their wedding feast. Now this new King “Loc” Locrinus with his evil heart had set up a huge massacre and annihilation of Gwendolyn’s family, friends and good people! This sinister groom, Loc had his wedding guests in disguise who were really his warriors! They had poniards “daggers” under their sleeves. Now this wedding would be known as the “Feast of Blades” with the horrific actions with the wicked results and murders that took place.

They killed every man and woman who tried to defend their honorable sick King Corineus, a man who was very sick with illness and only wanted to attend his daughter and heir’s wedding festivities. Loc not only had Gwendolyn’s father murdered but his own father King Brutus too! This also included killing Borlewen, Cunedda, Jenefer, Lowedda, Briallen, which were now all Gwendolyn’s dead cousins. Most likely this also meant her mother Queen Eseld and her nursemaid Demelza who had always been like a mother to Gwendolyn, who she loved deeply! However, this was when Loc took Gwendolyn away where everyone thought she was losing her virginity in the marriage bed, but it was the furthest thing from the truth. Gwendolyn had no idea what was happening to her good people! Unfortunately some might think Gwendolyn had a part in this malicious and nefarious slaughter, whom was siding with her wicked husband which was the furthest thing from the truth!

Gwendolyn soon witnessesed Loc’s true vile nature and black heart, as he felt Gwendolyn’s prophecy was a lie! It was because her hair did not turn gold-so he sheared it all off! He cruelly held her down and cut all her hair horribly and uneven on purpose. Just to make her look unattractive and cutting her long beautiful hair very short. He also claimed he would never make love to her, of course he confessed to slaughtering her family and her people. As if she would even want this monster to touch her, but he needs her to acquire the power from the other tribes! He knew they must look the happy couple in front of certain leaders or he would lose everything. It was the only reason she was still alive!Though when the leader we’re not present he found joy in torturing her.

It also turned out he had a cruel mistress named Estrildis with a young child that Loc had fathered. This meant Loc was lying from the very beginning and way before all the promise ceremonies. On top of that he gave his wicked mistress the chest of all of Gwendolyn’s gowns, jewels, even her wedding gift from him. As Gwendolyn was kept as a prisoner only having gruel as food and wearing servants clothing and no bathing in a locked room. Furthermore, she wondered where Málik was, her half fae, her shadow, the man who owned her heart! She was broken hearted and missed him so very much.

Gwendolyn felt as If she were abandoned and wished she had listened to Málik and ran away with him, but then she stupidly thought she had a duty to honor, protect and fulfill for her dying father’s destiny and the people of Treve
na. She thought she was doing the right thing which was absolutely wrong, she knew she didn’t want to marry Loc! How she wished she had acted on her instinct and feelings, as it could have saved so many lives or at least prepare them for war! If only she could escape! Yet questioning why Málik abandoned her to live in this filth and cruelty!

All she had was her former shadow Bryn and his sister Ely Durotriges, she wasn’t quite sure why they didn’t murder them too. She did not see them often as she didn’t see anyone being in isolation! Also Loc’s mother seemed the most dangerous and manipulative, who also wanted so much power and would do anything to get it! Now their home at the Loegrian Court was absolutely disgusting, it was filthy dirty and smelled like piss. Gwendolyn’s mother would have been mortified and swooned living under such horrible living conditions! It had been Loc’s elder brother Urien that Gwendolyn was betrothed to since birth, he who died under mysterious circumstances this past spring. Was it murder? It wouldn’t surprise Gwendolyn at all as this family had treachery, treason and murder in their veins!

Will Gwendolyn’s fae love ever return or has Málik deserted her forever? Will Gwendolyn ever find a way to escape her prison and if she does will the survivors of Trevana believe her? Can she kill Loc for all the damage he has done? Gwendolyn’s deepest desire is to kill Loc and take away all the power he has acquired through murder and mayhem. He definitely needs to be destroyed but how can she escape when she is being watched from his guards at all hours of the day? Read and find out in the next Goldenchild Prophecy novel titled The Forgotten Prince.

This is the second book in The Goldenchild Prophecy which was absolutely exhilarating from start to finish. Some areas will make you cringe and give you eerie chills, with so much wickedness and this wedding will remind you of the red wedding with so much death and destruction. Can good overcome evil? I guess we will have to wait and see.

Crosby is a definite jewel, inspiration, and talented marvel to her writing profession! It is no wonder I have been a fan of her work for over thirty years. As her books never disappoint and are always so remarkable and extraordinary with so many twists and turns. Also researching these iconic characters from history but giving her own fictional tale is absolutely brilliant too.

This novel weaves true history, magic, prophecies, hatred and love. Honestly I can never get enough and I can’t wait for the third book in this stunning story. So many surprises which I won’t spoil for the readers that had me glued to each and every page. A book historical and paranormal readers will absolutely love! Of this I guarantee! Again, I was swept away in this historical paranormal and never knew what would happen by the next page that nearly had me swoon. Another breathtaking masterpiece which is one of my favorite reads of the year. I absolutely loved The Queen’s Huntsman more than I can ever say! BRAVO MS. CROSBY YOU DID IT AGAIN!

It is no wonder Tanya Anne Crosby is my number #1 go to author! So if your looking for a breathtaking action packed adventure filled with history, magic, bloodshed, and love look no further then The Queen’s Huntsman. I suggest you read The Cornish Princess first, but I think if you read The Queen’s Huntsman first readers can catch up very easily. Either or it is definitely a book not to be missed.

The Goldenchild Prophecy
1)The Cornish Princess-
2)The Queen’s Huntsman-TBR July 26, 2022
3)The Forgotten Prince- TBR June 26, 2023

Disclaimer: I received an advance copy from Oliver-Heber publishing. I voluntarily agreed to do an honest, fair review and blog. All thoughts, ideas and words are my own.

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Profile Image for Kat Green.
1,147 reviews19 followers
August 11, 2022
If you can only read ONE series this year, it has GOT to be “The Cornish Princess” books 1 & 2. This is book two and I can’t wait for book 3, and possibly a book 4. Tanya Anne Crosby pulls you straight into the saga of Princess Gwendolyn complete with an amazing visual view of incredible places, (some historical, some not), the culture, the characters, and Gwendolyn’s struggles that go from Princess to Warrior Queen. Naturally, being female, she is dismissed by men, physically and emotionally abused by the husband she thought she was to marry to save her father’s kingdom. He reviled her and never even bothered consummate their marriage. His mother a viper, his mistress and the mother of his son, lived with him regardless that his new wife was thrown into prison. Discarded like refuse.
I really don’t want to give away too much of the story, but Gwendolyn could be you, she could be me, or any other woman. Read to see how she finds her inner strength and fortitude. DO NOT MISS THIS ONE! Also be sure to read Book 1. I’m sorry I can not adequately describe the detail, research, and majesty in Tonya’s books! ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ Once you start, you won’t want to put it down. 😍
Profile Image for Melody.
39 reviews
July 25, 2022
Tanya Anne Crosby has done it again. In this second book of the Goldenchild Prophecy trilogy Princess Gwendolyn is now a Queen who is in mortal peril. Through exquisite storytelling we readers are led on an epic adventure: reconnecting with old allies and meeting new, alluring characters.

This second book contains more fae magic and lore. Like our lead, Gwendolyn, I wished to stay longer in the realm of magic. The fight and the flight scenes are most engaging and descriptive. There is an element of romance threaded in this book without a resolution. We readers simply must read the third book in this trilogy to find out what happens with our old and new literary friends. Alas, it is not yet available to read (as of this review date) so this reader is truly on the edge of her seat!

Fans of authors like Sarah J. Maas, Kristin Cashore, Leigh Bardugo, and Julie Kagawa will really enjoy The Queen's Huntsman.
Profile Image for Clare O'Beara.
Author 25 books371 followers
August 9, 2023
This new take on ancient Cornwall brings the self-absorbed, sheltered princess of the first book to a dreadful pass. The prince she married is a brutal traitor, and her family are killed while she is imprisoned in a castle.
In Ireland's Celtic past, women were allowed to divorce, but it seems the Goldenchild doesn't have that option, maybe because customs differed or maybe because of the binding of two local kingdoms. When she manages to escape, she has to look for any remaining friends and find allies. The fae huntsman seems loyal, but how far can he be trusted in human affairs? I like that we also meet a female fae, who reveals more of their lifestyle.
This is a dramatic and suspenseful story full of charm and challenge.

I read an ARC from Fresh Fiction. This is an unbiased review.
12.6k reviews189 followers
September 13, 2022
What a beautiful story. Fae magic, lore and more to make this a wonderful story to read. Life is definitely not easy and being Betrothed to the wrong man is all wrong. Can this be changed before it’s too late. You don’t want to miss this second book
1,501 reviews1 follower
September 21, 2022
Gwen and Malik

Liked this story better and better. We see Gwen turning into a true leader. Many new revelations about the characters.
30 reviews1 follower
December 13, 2022
Great read

Can not wait for the next book to come, absolutely love this series. Highly recommend reading this book! I can't wait to read more from this author
Profile Image for Mhollie.
703 reviews38 followers
November 9, 2023
A solid read for the second book of the series. Gwen is growing on me as she is starting to find her backbone.
104 reviews2 followers
July 21, 2022
Oh my. Tanya Anne Crosby has done it again with her talent for creating worlds and characters that touched my heart and made me wish I didn't have to leave them.

Perhaps it's because it's that time of year when I look forward to my favorite birthday cake, but that is how I am feeling about this trilogy: the way I eat a slice of a rich two-layer chocolate cake with the most decadent buttercream frosting.

Book one was the cake, deep and rich which I always enjoy first without touching the frosting. This one, oh this one is that frosting filling part right up the middle that still has some cake on either side: the world that was set up in the first book with the added thrill of adventure, the deepening of character, and the anticipation of more to come.

Thank heaven everyone knows not to make me wait for that final part of the slice of cake the way I'm already craving the third book!

For now, I'll just sip my coffee and mull over this amazingly well-crafted story and wonder if Tanya Anne Crosby is truly of this world. For I am starting to believe she is as full of magic as her stories.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Elaine .
649 reviews7 followers
July 22, 2022
Wow. The Queen's Huntsman is full of action, suspense, drama and mystery, with a big dose of paranormal. There is passion but not really romance. It is such a departure from the typical medieval novel and it reminds me of Lord of the Rings with a mission and varied characters, including elves, facing a great evil. The evil characters of Locrinus and Innogen are great but very, very bad. I like that the heroine, Gwendolyn is in transition between childhood and womanhood and once she becomes the Queen, when her father, the King, is killed, she has to grow up fast. She has to learn to trust her instincts and determine whom she can trust. The characters that she can trust are not always the ones she thinks but Malik is a very good if reluctant hero who helps guide her. There is a lot of legend and mystical illusions and prophecies. The only reason I gave the book four stars is the book sometimes overwhelmed me with a great number of characters, tribes and places, even in the first chapter. It can be confusing.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Deana  Jackson.
36 reviews
July 25, 2022
The Golden Child Prophecy continues with the next book in the series, The Queen’s Huntsman.
Gwendolyn has been imprisoned, her home land captured and Loc’s true evilness has been revealed after discovering he is not her one true love of which the prophecy foretells.
Tortured (emotionally) by Loc and his family, her friends kept under Loc’s brutal thumb how will she find the strength, as well as a way to escape this?
This is a story of having to dig deep within to find your true self, overcoming impossible odds and I am here for it! You should be too!
Gwendolyn has to come to terms with past relationships, find strength she didn’t know she had and begin to become the Queen she was born to be.
The story opens with: “In this world, there is no force equal to the strength of a woman determined to rise” I don’t think I have any better words than those. We see the capture of a princess and the rise of a Queen. The epic adventure continues and you need to be there for the ride!
I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Cherie S.
1,099 reviews19 followers
July 21, 2022
Prophecy's, Evil, Fae Love:

This story starts out with many unbelievably shocking situations.
We find Gwendolyn married to an evil husband that is filled with
hatred and abandons her after her hair doesn't turn to gold when he cuts it.
She is held like a prisoner. Given awful food and wondering if and when she
will be poisoned, only seeing her husband's mistress.
Feeling that her prophecy has left her. Her life is in extreme danger.
One could not imagine the horror she is having to endure.
The story is filled with magic, wicked behaviors, courage, hope, some
answered questions, more answers to come along with some prophecies
to finish.
5 Star Cover: Beautiful

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
All thoughts and opinions are my own.
It is best to read The Cornish Princess first.
79 reviews3 followers
July 23, 2022
Another outstanding read in the Golden Child Prophecy. Gwendolyn is now married to a most despicable man, Locrinus, who decides that since her hair, not make of gold, should be made a prisoner in her mother house. She is taunted by Loc’s mother and his mistress.
With the help of her Shadow, Byrn, she escapes her prison and runs as far away as possible. Loc follows her in order to kill her but before she is found Malik, her Huntsman, appears and protects her from death. While to two travel to find help in conquering Loc, Gwen learns more lessons to how to negotiate for support and how to fight without undo energy expense.
They meet Emse along the way. Emse is both a gift and a curse to Gwen. Emse was one of the two Fae who Blessed Gwen at birth so know much of the Prophecy.
Read about a strong woman who become me confident and determined to reclaim what is hers.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Jeanie Filter.
1 review2 followers
July 20, 2022
Too often books between the first in a series and the last are filled with side quests or pages of fluff-inconsequential people or empty words. Unequivocally, the Queen’s Huntsmen is not one of those books. Instead, continuing from The Cornish Princess the characters become more vivid and real. The language Ms. Crosby uses reveals her research. The characters lead the reader through times of despair, varied landscapes, challenges and even a few victories. A true page turner with unexpected twists, I recommend this book. Warning: Be prepared to laugh a little, cry, and reading way past your bedtime while Ms. Crosby brings Gwendolyn to fully embrace in her role as Dragon Queen.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Anne Gregor.
Author 10 books24 followers
July 6, 2022
If The Cornish Princess was likened to a cozy, crackling fire, adolescent and naive of its foretold fate, then The Queen's Huntsman is a blazing forge, heating, bending, altering - a cunning sword demanding its due.

The shock and betrayal Gwendolyn suffered at the hands of her new husband gives readers an extraordinary prescience of what lies ahead. In The Queen's Huntsman, a dark foreboding surrounds the Queen as King Locrinus' dark army swarms Pretania, conscripting its once-loyal tribes.

Málik Danann of the Fae promised never to leave Gwendolyn. She believes he broke that promise. She believes he never loved her. She believes that she has nothing and no one... even queens can be wrong.

War is coming, and as its bloody, rallying call echos, the Dragon Queen emerges.

Tanya Anne Crosby manages to subtly meld genres in The Goldenchild Prophecy series. This historical romance is gently kissed with fantasy and lore. It will steal your breath as goosebumps pebble your skin. Crosby is a cross-genre Queen!

Kris Helt
Whiskey & Wit Book Reviews
Profile Image for Pink Roadster.
40 reviews
July 26, 2022
Even though I received the book for my honest review. After reading the first chapter I went ahead and pre-ordered a copy.


Who doesn’t love a bit of intrigue, resourcefulness with a sprinkle of romance in a good book? Tanya gives that to you in this book.

Come see how Gwendolyn along with Malik (her Shadow) and a few truly eccentric individuals, including a foe help her take back what is hers as the King’s heir after her father’s murder.

Does she take the lead or does Malik as her Shadow?

In the book you’ll understand why Malik is called her Shadow. Are they or not the sprinkle of love? Could it be someone else?

Get the book and find out the answers.

You won’t be disappointed.
Profile Image for Stephanie Herron.
741 reviews12 followers
July 16, 2022
Wow! This story starts out strong and does not let up. The writing is so intense that it makes stopping difficult. Gwendolyn goes through many trials and heartbreaking moments in the book, but she comes out stronger for it. There is a guide for readers at the beginning that helps with all the names of the characters and the tribes mentioned in the story and that is a good thing. The prophecy that has followed her since birth is revealed. This helps to brings others around to her cause. She finds success in coming into her own but the ending is jaw dropping and has you wondering what is to come next.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
3 reviews
July 25, 2022
Amazing!
We continue the journey of Gwendolyn, after everything is taken away from her, how is she to become the greatness foretold in her prophecy?
This is a fantasy in a world with castles, kingdoms/tribes, and mystical creatures. Intriguing characters, each with their own story to tell. The history, the lore, the world building is excellent. This was definitely a page turner, with action and suspense, betrayals and revelations, leaving me wanting more.
Now I need to try waiting patiently for the next book!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Susan Baez Randleman.
106 reviews4 followers
July 26, 2022
The Queens Huntsman
By Tanya Anne Crosby

I found this story riveting. I had a difficult time stopping to do IRL things besides reading! You see the characters develop and grow along with the story. It’s like wonder wrapping around you with every page read. Lots of real growth and strength for the characters. Very detailed and exciting as you read. I recommend you grab your copy now to continue the story of The Cornish Princess. It’s definitely something to enjoy!
363 reviews2 followers
July 24, 2022
I pledge myself until death
Gwendolyn ‘s deceiving,liar,thief of a husband made her life miserable. Her prophecy from her crib came true. Fighting back tears, I am fascinated with the mystical beautiful place Malika carried her and the protection he gave her. Let’s see what Esme brings!
*disclamer: I received a free arc to review, however I gave my own honest review.
115 reviews2 followers
July 18, 2022
Throughly enjoyed reading this 2nd book in the Golden Child Prophecy. So much history, so many questions answered and yet so many more answers yet to come. Highly recommend and looking forward to the next book.
Profile Image for Shannon R. Nemechek.
Author 41 books1,318 followers
July 24, 2022
What a great story. I loved every minute of this book. I couldn’t put it down. I literally read it in one sitting this afternoon and I just have to sit down and read it again.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Yvonne.
19 reviews
July 15, 2022
What an amazing story line! I can't wait to read the next book in this series. Tanya Anne Crosby has me hooked with this series! Gwendolyn is fierce and ready to take on her destiny, no matter what is thrown at her.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Cyn Taylor.
Author 33 books14 followers
July 18, 2022
As always Crosby has given the reader a fabulous piece of epic historical fiction and a wonderful sequel. Highly recommend.
Profile Image for Julie Whyte.
60 reviews1 follower
August 18, 2022
After reading the first book, The Cornish Princess, I had to read the next!! Tanya Anne Crosby has definitely found a niche for herself!
Read along as Gwendolyn’s struggles pull you into the story & you are ready to jump in and help her accomplish those struggles!
You are not going to want to miss out on this series!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Amanda.
58 reviews
October 22, 2025
3.5 rounded to 4. Gwendolyn and Malik's relationship problems were driving me crazy the whole book! like just talk to him! haha I did enjoy the book though
Profile Image for Chris Gourley.
Author 3 books11 followers
June 6, 2023
A heroine coming into her own.

Even as her heart yearns for Malik, Gwendolyn chooses duty. In this book she has grown. Does she doubt? Yes. But in her heart she knows what's true... excited to read Book 3.
155 reviews3 followers
July 26, 2022
This book was suspenseful in parts along side the continuing romance of Gwendolyn and Malik. This book reveals the true nature of Loc and the ambitious nature of his mistress, Estridis. Gwendolyn’s true nature and ability to be the queen she is to be is slowly revealed as she is rescued from Loc’s hand by the instructions of his own mother into the hands of friends.
The story continues as Gwendolyn is chased by Loc and ends up in the magical arms of Malik the half fae who was her former huntsman. The reader must pay attention as many possible alliances with other tribes are described as Cornwall’s new queen must decide who to contact first.
I quite liked the introduction of Esme to the story as Gwendolyn is taken into the fae world. The relationship between Malik and Esme gives Gwendolyn something to ponder as more magic is revealed to her. Esme is someone that Gwendolyn does like when she finds she has no other females to converse with.
There is more suspense at the end as the Cornish queen with a new alliance and a reunion with her former huntsman, Bryn and his sister Ely makes a surprize entry into the City of Trevena through a route Gwendolyn discovered as a child.Malik and Gwendolyn become a very good team as they both navigate the hidden entry to allow others of their party into the city.
But this is only the first step towards the new queen reclaiming her lands and new threats are revealed by Malik as he becomes Gwendolyn's true huntsmam. I can can only guess at what will happen as the Cornish Queen continues on her quest and look forward to reading all about it in the next book. i received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
26 reviews3 followers
August 4, 2022
Captivating!!

I love the twist of fact and fiction. Difficult to distinguish between the two. Strong female characters. It captivates the readers attention and is difficult to put down!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews

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