The Sinuous Bargain of a Cowardly Prince

by Kayliani Shi

A medium-paced introspective romantic fantasy perfect for fans of The Bridge Kingdom and The Song of the Marked

She was his chance for redemption.
He was her key to freedom.


Prince Ramiel Faundor is a bastard. His entire existence is the second best-kept secret in a kingdom built on blurred lines. But when his dragon-slaying brother dies in battle, Ramiel must stand in his place in the kingdom’s coronation duel. There’s just one problem: thanks to the king’s intimidation, no noble or soldier dares to train him.

Ether Malaphon is a cutthroat elven warrior. Her hatred for humanity is etched into her soul, second only to her resentment for the fairies who killed her parents. Her world unravels when she’s dragged from her village to be sacrificed to a long-dead monarch. But fate intervenes when a certain desperate prince strikes a bargain that might save her life. If he rescues her, she must agree to train him for his duel.

As time runs out and enemies close in, Ramiel and Ether must navigate dark curses, buried secrets, and a history determined to repeat itself. But in a kingdom shaped by betrayal, victory may come at the ultimate cost.

Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Adult

484 pages, Paperback

First published October 21, 2025

About the author

Kayliani Shi is an avid reader, artist, and writer. Raised in northern Idaho, she now lives in Michigan with her husband, daughter, two cats, and dog. When not huddled in a blanket writing, Kayliani enjoys taking walks in the sun, visiting local cafés, and listening to her favorite J-ROCK band, Official Hige Dandism. You can find more about Kayliani at kaylianishipr.com.

Reviews

[Atheina Vismark · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Netgalley, Candescent Ink Quest and author Kayliani Shi for an early copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

Up until 3 days ago I was in a reading slump, I hadn't touched a single book, be it a novel, a manga, or simply an arc. TSB changed that, just like the first time it changed me when I first read it years ago on Wattpad. The first time I read it I remember devouring it with each chapter it came out, but I always was the shy type, I did not comment or vote, I liked being a shadow. Things changed the second time I read it (I never re-read books, very few are the cases where this has happened mind you) and it was because I just had to read it again for the second time. I decided to step out of my confort zone like Rami did.

Ramiel Faundor, the man you are, the most adorable male main character I've read it an absurd long time. A breath of fresh air from the rest of male characters I've read about, where all their strength lies in muscles and toughness and just being perfect, ruthless, devoid of emotions unless the female main character is involved. Ramiel, Rami, was never like that. My sweet Rami who was so relatable to read of, whose cuteness, gentleness warmed my heart and reminded me of what it meant reading nowadays of an adventure so different from what the current market dictates. Rami who knowing his weaknesses decided to make when, when possible, his strenghts. Rami, so different from his cold and ruthless dragon.slaying older brother Xavelor, ever more like his mother than his father.

One would think that after reading a book 2 times they grow bored of it, but that was never the case with this book. Oh no, I became a beta reader and later an arc reader, at this point I've lost count of the amount of times I've read this book. But it's probably around four or five. And when I tell you that with each new version the story somehow became even better I would probably not even believe myself if I were to say this to the old me of a couple of years ago.But it happened, Kayliani was able to polish her craft each single freaking time.


This novel is different than most. People my age in this economy are interested in romantasy, with spice and where love plays a big part in the plot. That does not happen in TSB, something that I absolutely adored. We're shown how fantasy books are still able to separate something these days people have seen to forgotten. That we can enjoy a good fantasy book settled in a fantasy world filled with adventure, high stakes and with a subtle dash of romance to complete it without feeling too much as it went to meddle with the plot.

As I said before: Rami is and always will be my favourite cute potato of a prince that will always strive to be the best version of himself no matter how many people will wish him to fail. How I then liked how Ether actually decided to be there best kind of master for Rami as the trial approached instead of being too much on the soul and at the same time righteous. And for the first time since reading what we could consider the first draft I have to say it. I FINALLY LIKE RONAN. IT HAPPENED. I HAVE NO IDEA HOW IT HAPPENED BUT IT DID AND I STILL CAN'T BELIEVE MYSELF FOR WRITING THIS.

If you want a romantasy book to read, then this is not for you. But, if you want a fantasy book set into a truly magical world filled with high stakes, magical creatures, secrets and a main male character that will make your heart will swoon with gentleness and the feeling of proudly watching a friend working on himself while he makes allies on his journey and does not give up even what all hope is lost because he wants to be a better version of himself then this is for you. Then this is 100% for you.

Now I can't wait for book 1.5 and the sequel to come out, that ending was diabolical, AND I NEED ANSWERS.
5⭐️ 0.25 🌶️ (couple of kisses)

[ℓιѕєη · Rating 4 out of 5]

A big thank you to the author who kindly gave me a digital ARC-copy in exchange for an honest review

☆☆☆☆.25
I was one of the people who read this book when it was still on its first draft on Wattpad. That resulted in me remembering what happened throughout the book, and while many may think that boring, because why did I have to read the book then? For me, it’s only even more fun that way. You pick up on parts you forgot the last time and you remember how fun it actually was to read the book for the first time.

- WHAT I LOVED -
• My baby Ramiel
• My badass Ether
• My sass-queen Ronan
• The prologue
• The plot-twists
• The slowburn


- WHAT I WANTED MORE OF -
• Romance (in terms of more scenes)
• World-building
• ”Show not tell”
• Magic

May add more later!

[Kayliani Shi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am biased as the author, but I wrote the story I wanted to read, so of course I'm rating it 5 stars ⭐️🤭

I am so incredibly excited for readers to finally jump into the world of TSB! I put my heart and soul into these characters and their stories. I hope you'll find reflections of yourself within them, and that their stories fill you with hope.

Thank you for giving TSB a chance. Enjoy!

[☾arina⭐︎ · Rating 3 out of 5]

This one I had to give a 3.

Reading the synopsis, I was really intrigued by the concept of an elf FMC being the trainer and the human MMC being the trainee. It's a different dynamic I don't see often, which makes me want to read it more.

Unfortunately, what fell short for me were the world-building, the chemistry between the MCs, and the training aspect. The tension between the elves, fairies, and humans had so much potential, but wasn't developed as strongly as I'd hoped. We're given the history of their war, but their presence is mostly glossed over.

The romance is slow burn, enemies-to-lovers more so on Ether's part. She blames the humans for the elves' suffering, while Ramiel, who's been sheltered and a bit naive about politics, doesn't share his father's harsh views. I really thought I was going to like the romance. I’ve always loved the dynamic of the badass fmc falling for the sweet mmc. Sadly, I didn’t fully believe in their connection; it felt more one-sided towards Ramiel. Ether had more chemistry with Ramiel’s friend than with him. She spends most of the story suppressing her feelings or convincing herself they're not real. She would also think about the best friend she left behind and hope he wasn't seeing someone. Meanwhile, Ramiel was a sweetheart to her and was doing his best to make her comfortable under her current situation. There were glimpses towards the end, but I’m hoping to see more believable development in the next book.

The training was basically nonexistent, which was a bummer because that was initially what drew me in. I wanted to see them working together and watch him grow as a fighter, but we didn't really see that. The training starts halfway through the book and lasts only a chapter before something happens to Ramiel, pivoting in the way he was trained. Any further training was off-page or shortly mentioned.

That said, the ending made it all worth it. I was genuinely shocked by the revelations and can’t wait to see how everything unfolds in the next book.

Thank you NetGalley and Candescent Ink Press for the ARC.

[Andi · Rating 3 out of 5]

Review to come... gotta think about this one a bit before writing up a review.

I sat on this one for a bit, but it's a solid 3.

There are a lot of things that do work for this. You get a male main character whose background + his current status has him as a sad softie. He has no friends, wants to do good (despite his dad being shit), and is thrust into the predicament of being the replacement son for the monarchy. The chapters from his perspective are full of care for others or putting himself before others.

The other main character is our female lead. She is an elf. Years ago, there was a war between the humans and the elves. They split the lands and now the elves are pushed to the outskirts of the kingdom, the woods, and are not allowed to come over to the kingdom. There are, of course, some who serve the kingdom but are seen as traitors.

The plot is as the synopsis gave: the prince is now the replacement son, his (half) brother was killed and they need someone to serve in his stead during an upcoming fight. He lacks magic knowledge, fighting skills, and any sort of gumption. Enter our female lead, she was taken from the woods by one of the elves that serves the crown, finds herself in the proximity of the prince who sees her 'fight' and he decides to enlist her help. In return, she is to speak up for her people to his father.

And so, the story is with them - her learning to figure out that he might be the good that both sides need, and him figuring out that she might be the one thing he needed. There is also a prophecy that has to do with him and possibly her, too.

There is also another character who I found interesting - the friend of his brother's. His brother's dying request was that the friend serve him. He has another secret agenda, and also a secret identity. I found him interesting, and with the books ending I want to see what becomes of him.

Now why did I rate it down two stars? This is, as the author indicates, a very character / emotional driven book. Which I do prefer in terms of many fantasy these days (see Robin Hobb's Farseer world). Which was one of the reasons I grabbed it. I prefer worldbuilding / story, characters over romance. So... I was kind of let down on the worldbuilding and details.

The prince has to learn to fight and or do magic things with our female elf. He really doesn't do much of that. There is a quest in that he heads out into the forest to fulfill, and he sort of learns some magic there, but there is not a lot of harnessing fighting skills or adapting his magic. It's a lot of talk or kind of skirting around all that. There is just a lot of focus on each other and what the other is feeling and what they have to get past. I honestly found more character build with our mysterious friend.

The political aspect is explained at the beginning of the novel, and besides from the meetings with the father and son and flashbacks, we really don't get moments where we see his strength as a wicked king or where we see him interact with his followers, other kingdom representatives.

The ending of the book makes it seem like things are going to be ramping up in a darker and more conflicting sense which I like, but it also makes me a bit wary of if that tone will be strong enough when the world building / details were sparse.

Yet, there is something in this book. I want this book to succeed in a world surrounded by romantasy.

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

What just happened!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I received an advanced reader copy from the author and was not required to leave a positive review. So, here is my HONEST review.

The beginning of this book launched me into the story with great interest. I was curious about the characters, the world, the plot…and the book did not disappoint.

The progress, at first, was a little slow. Things didn’t move too quickly, you were not thrown from plot point to plot point. Instead there was a lot of history and character development. You learned about them, their beliefs, their goals, and their relationship with one another.

And just when you think, Okay…is anything going to happen? The building started to shake and everything came crumbling down!

I thought I was prepared for what was going to happen. I’m pretty good about guessing plot twists…but let me tell you, I was NOT expecting this ending. I couldn’t read the last chapters fast enough.

Before I finished the book, I was going to rate this book a three star. AFTER I finished the book? 3.5 stars, no doubt. And I'll tell you why I took one star away.

Things I loved about the book:
-Ramiel is a naive kind-souled prince who is an absolute poet and helpless romantic. I highlighted several phrases by him. I loved his character so much I wanted Ether to shut up and get on with it so I could read his chapters instead. (sorry, not sorry Ether. I’ll talk about you later).

-The romance was soft yet thrilling. There was no spice, which allowed the genuine desire between the characters to shine all the more. It was sacred. And longing. And beautiful.

-The world building and history of the races and characters was interwoven flawlessly. It’s easy for things to get messy with world building, or for authors not to worry about filling all the plot holes. That wasn’t the case here.

-Ronan. You think you hate a character only to end up loving them.

-The prologue. Not all prologues are created equally. The prologue was an instant “yes” for reading this book.

- The plot twist at the end was...wow. I just, I thought it was going to be about something else (which was also part of it), but the other half........amazing.

Why I took a star away:
-The author did like to reiterate and over-explain things (in my opinion). I’m a reader that doesn’t like things to be served to me on a platter. I like to figure things out and connect the dots. This does not, however, make the book bad. In fact, the writing of this book was exceptional (minus this personal preference). I would just get a little annoyed after reading about a war, then reading about it again from another character. Or being flat out TOLD why the eyes change color, instead of being able to figure it out. Once again, personal preference.

-Ether really annoyed me in the first half of this book. She was proud, arrogant, close-minded and quick-tempered. She gets character growth as the book progresses, and she also starts becoming more likeable in the second half of the book. But early on in the book she took every opportunity to show off, when she should be laying low. Don’t get me started on her blunder at the training grounds when she was supposed to be acting like a “simple maid”.

-There were parts of the book that felt like the characters should have been a bit more…..emotional. Eager to make haste, wanting to rush forward, etc. Especially since Ramiel is literally going to die if he doesn’t get his act together. I just expected him to feel a bit more impatient.

----

I’ve read a couple of debut novels this year, and this one blows them out of the water.

I’m looking forward to book two.

[Maloridanae · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you, NetGalley and Candescent Ink Press for the ARC!

Review rounded up from 3.5.

I thought that this was a fun and whimsical read. There were parts throughout the middle that the pacing felt a bit off to me. Some of the wording was a clunky feeling and did not always read very smoothly. Aside from that, the story was interesting and I did enjoy this!

[Britt · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found myself intrigued at the very beginning of this book, the prologue itself captured my attention. I immediately was drawn in and wanted to know more. I thought that the pacing of the story was good, and the characters were well developed! I will definitely be recommending this book once it releases. I was given an advanced reader copy of the book and was not required to leave a positive review. My honest review is positive, and I'm looking forward to reading more by Shi in the future!

[Anna Muscaria · Rating 5 out of 5]

First off, I volunteered myself as an arc reader for this book, and my opinion about it is my own.

I read this book before in its previous version, and still now I feel quite envious of Kayliani’s description style. It feels so natural and beautiful that it’s a literal gem to be able to weave such world-building into a first-person narrator. You are given so much information but not to the point of drowning yourself in it. They will come in handy along the way in the form of clues, pieces to gather into the bigger picture.
The main characters are, to me, two sides of the same coin, with matching weaknesses and only their upbringing making their differences. If one were taught the truth, no war or pain would have ever existed. Moreover, I like that Ether is this warrior elf woman. We are so in need of strong badass female characters. I also like how Ramiel is this soft, gentle male character in a world of literature where the contrary dominates. This is already a refreshing twist.
Lastly, I don’t read books without trying to go against my mind of dissecting their deep meaning, and I have to say, I’m quite surprised about my finding. To me, it dug deep into the feeling of ‘to fit in’ or ‘not to fit in’, and on that universal question, I relate a lot to it. Being Eurasian, growing up between two worlds that never knew how to accept me as I am, I relate to the main characters of this book as they went on that journey to discover who they are and what they are capable of for themselves and their people, just to find they are strong just as they are.

The 21st of October 2025 couldn’t come any quicker so I can grab one printed version of this book :).

[Pagesofscarlett · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Sincere and Captivating Romantasy Masterpiece

I received a NetGalley e-ARC of this book.
In Kayliani Shi's The Sinuous Bargain of a Cowardly Prince, we are given a romantic fantasy that stands out from the crowd with its earnest heart and beautifully crafted character work.

While the genre is often defined by its sprawling world-building and high-octane action, Shi has delivered an unforgettable story that prioritizes the emotional journey of its characters, and the result is a breathtaking triumph.

The premise is a masterclass in trope subversion. We have Prince Ramiel, a bastard heir thrust into an impossible situation, who is refreshingly soft, kind, and fundamentally out of his element. He is the anti-hero we didn't know we needed. His counterpart, Ether, is a formidable elven warrior hardened by trauma and a deep-seated hatred for humanity.

Their "sinuous bargain" is the perfect setup for a slow-burn romance, where forced proximity gives way to genuine vulnerability and respect. The emotional depth of their bond, built on shared secrets and an unraveling of trust, is the absolute highlight of the book.
What is most impressive is how Shi weaves the grand plot around the intimate character arcs.

The political intrigue, the dark curses, and the looming war are all present, but they serve to amplify the personal stakes. Every choice and every secret feels earned, and the climax is a stunning payoff that leaves you desperate for the next installment. This is a romantasy that understands that the most powerful battles are often fought within the soul.

------------------------------------------
Pros:
* Exceptional Character Dynamics: The "grumpy x anxious softie" pairing of Ether and Ramiel is fresh and deeply compelling. Their emotional connection is the lifeblood of the book.
* Refreshing Protagonist: Ramiel is a wonderful deviation from the typical arrogant fantasy prince. His kindness and vulnerability make him an instantly lovable and relatable hero.
* Intriguing World and Lore: While the focus is on characters, the worldbuilding is rich with ancient curses, prophecies, and political tensions that feel well-developed and immersive.
* Slow-Burn Perfection: The romance is paced perfectly, allowing the relationship to feel organic and earned, with every moment of intimacy feeling like a profound victory.
* Powerful Emotional Payoff: The ending is a satisfying mix of shocking twists and heartfelt revelations, setting up the sequel in the best possible way.


Cons:
* None. This book knows exactly what it is and executes its vision flawlessly. For readers who prioritize fast-paced action and extensive worldbuilding over character and romance, this may not be their usual cup of tea, but for those who value emotional depth and a sincere story, it is a triumph.

[Courtney Pityer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I won this book in a giveaway. I read part of it but couldn't get into it. The writing was good so an automatic five stars.

[Bree Chilcott · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was hard to put down. I thoroughly enjoyed getting lost in this magical world and going on an adventure with the characters!

[Liv Brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have really enjoyed reading this book both as a beta and an advanced copy reader. I received a free copy to give an honest review, so here it is:

3.75 Stars. If you enjoy modern fantasy and slow-burn romantasy, you should definitely try this book.

The world-building is one of my favourite elements of this book. It has lots of depth and detail but isn’t overwhelming as it is weaved through the story well. There is a good streak of mystery to follow which seems it will continue into the rest of the series. I also particularly liked Ronan’s character, his was a fascinating perspective to get at points.

I don’t typically gravitate to romance in books and I am quite picky, so although that element wasn’t my favourite, I could see that it would be well liked by many other readers as it was generally well written. Their relationship seems almost cliche while being/becoming unconventional in many ways which I found interesting, but I can see might put off some. Similarly, the present tense writing style is not my normal preference but in this I didn’t find it distracting or jarring.

Although the inciting incident of the story happens right at the beginning, it then feels like it takes quite a while to get into the action. I think because the set up is that Ether will train Ramiel, when it takes a long time to get to them actually training together the chapters drag along a bit, even though there is important stuff being dealt with and revealed.

Lots of the description is very beautiful, but in places I felt like it became a little too flowery, repetitive or dramatic. However, that is very much a matter of personal taste.

The plot itself is very good with a great twists and a pretty well-managed flow of information and questions.

I am very happy to have read this story, it’s an excellent debut, and am excited for the prequel and sequel!

[Dayna Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

From the moment the gorgeous cover caught my eye, I was hooked—this book’s aesthetic is absolutely swoon-worthy. At its heart, The Sinuous Bargain of a Cowardly Prince is a sweet yet high-stakes romantasy that brings together an unlikely pair destined to change each other—and their world—forever.

Prince Ramiel Faundor lives in his brother’s shadow, a bastard pushed to fight a coronation duel he has neither training nor support to win. Ether Malaphon, an elven warrior with deep-seated hatred for humans—and especially fairies—finds herself sold into bondage and on the brink of sacrifice. Their fates collide when desperation meets opportunity: Ramiel bargains for Ether’s help, offering her rescue in exchange for training him in the art of war. From that moment, a fragile, charged connection blooms between two broken souls navigating curses, court intrigue, and a kingdom built on betrayal.

What truly elevates this story is the dynamics between its protagonists. Ramiel is refreshingly sensitive, anxious, and far from your typical dashing hero—an “anti‑chosen one” who must grow into his role under pressure. Ether is deadly, guarded, and complex, a sharp contrast whose strength only deepens the tension and respect between them. Their growing bond—woven through shared vulnerability and mutual need—devices a romance that feels both tender and earned.

The worldbuilding is equally impressive. Kayliani Shi introduces a realm brimming with dark curses, ancient secrets, and shifting alliances. Political intrigue simmers beneath the surface, and the lore unfolds in chapters that balance momentum with emotional clarity. Several early readers praised its richly layered plot and immersive setting.

At times, pacing issues emerge—especially in the middle stretch, where momentum dips slightly, and some moments feel rushed or underdeveloped. Yet the compelling character arcs and surprising twists in the finale made those minor stumbles feel forgivable. Many NetGalley readers noted that despite these occasional lags, the ending felt unexpected and maintained forward excitement for the sequel.

Overall, The Sinuous Bargain of a Cowardly Prince delivers a beautifully nuanced romance, a world alive with enchantment and danger, and characters whose growth is as engaging as their battles. I'm excited for what's next in the Shadowed Throne Chronicles—and happy to award this one a well-deserved four stars.

Reluctant Hero – Prince Ramiel is not your typical brave warrior; he’s anxious, self-doubting, and thrust into a fight he never wanted.

Political Intrigue – The royal court is full of manipulation, hidden motives, and schemes brewing beneath the surface.

Dark Bargain – Ramiel makes a desperate deal to survive, one that changes the course of his fate and Ether’s.

Curses and Ancient Magic – The world is steeped in dangerous magic, old spells, and haunting legacies.

Training Montage – A classic mentorship/training dynamic as Ether teaches Ramiel how to fight.

Forced Proximity – Ramiel and Ether are bound together by necessity, leading to growing emotional intimacy.

Enemies to Allies (to Lovers) – Ether begins with a deep resentment toward Ramiel and his kind, but their relationship slowly softens and deepens.

Grumpy x Anxious (Soft) Pairing – Ether is the hardened, stoic warrior; Ramiel is the nervous, emotionally open prince.

Slow Burn Romance – Their connection builds gradually, with tension, trust, and emotional vulnerability developing over time.

Bargain-Based Bond – Their entire relationship begins because of a deal, giving it high emotional and narrative stakes from the start.

Bastard Prince / Outsider Royal – Ramiel isn’t the heir, and his status as a royal outcast plays a huge role in the plot and his inner conflict.

Warrior Mentor – Ether steps into the teacher role, guiding Ramiel in combat and pushing him beyond what he believes he’s capable of.

Trauma Bonding – Both leads are broken by their pasts, and their shared pain becomes the foundation for understanding each other.

[Cinnamon&Pine · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️A scrawny prince, a lethal elf, a fairy frenemy — and a dragon waiting at the end.

We open with Prince Ramiel’s POV. Because of a prophecy, he was never trained in swordplay or strategy — instead he’s been confined to arts, sciences, and tea parties. Lanky, prudish, and without a scrap of endurance, he would rather read than rule. But when his warrior brother, the heir, dies unexpectedly, Ramiel’s father announces that he must slay the dragon to claim his inheritance. The cruel catch: he is still forbidden to learn either magic or martial arts.

Ramiel sets off in desperation with Ronan, his late brother’s friend, in search of a teacher. Enter Ether, a wood elf summoned by the king for ominous reasons, and soon to be suspiciously entangled in palace intrigue. She soon discovers that Ronan is actually a fairy — her sworn enemy, given the ancient betrayal between elves and fairies that cemented human supremacy.

They smuggle Ether into the castle, but before any training can begin she needs to recharge her magic reserves. Cue another errand: Ramiel must catch a magical fish. Against all odds, the encounter awakens his own magic — something his companions declare impossible. While they are returning with their decidedly pungent catch, Ether is busy uncovering secret passages and the prophecy itself. To complicate matters, she is ordered by the king to sabotage Ramiel’s training or watch all elves slaughtered.

Back at the training ground, Ramiel and Ether collide in more ways than one — a mating mark appears on their arms, forcing them into a bond neither expected. Ether, still undecided whether to betray him, lures a dangerous creature to the training grounds. Too late, she regrets it, saving Ramiel from death but not from disaster: he is gravely wounded. The court mages’ questionable “healing” costs him his eyesight, making his dragon-slaying destiny all the more grim.

Ronan, Ether, and Ramiel flee to an ancient ruin in the magical forest to begin real magical training. There, Ramiel slowly connects with Ether, while Ether faces the slaughter of her village and the testimony of a centuries-old elven ghost who challenges everything she and Ronan believed about their history. Even Ramiel’s heritage proves less straightforward than it seemed. Training advances — until the king abruptly calls them back, moving up the crown prince’s formal presentation aka dragon fight.

Ramiel, barely prepared and on the brink of death, accepts help from a ghostly voice that reveals itself as his dead brother, a powerful mage. The catch? His brother plans to inhabit Ramiel’s body. Ramiel regains his sight, the king is killed, he just struggles against his brother’s control long enough to ensure that Ether and Ronan can escape, before collapsing.

The story ends here, and yes — I’ll certainly pick up the sequel. I want to see how Ramiel grows from reluctant scholar to something more, and whether his allies can rescue him from his brother’s grasp.

This is very much fantasy with a romantic subplot rather than romantasy. And it’s refreshing that the “damsel in distress” is actually the MMC, while the FMC is the fighter — a neat reversal that worked well for me.

Since Ramiel doesn’t come with a scent, we’ll take Ronan’s instead: dried daisies, the spice of rain, and salt. Not bad company to keep.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an e-arc in exchange for an honest opinion.

[Rebekah · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Disclaimer* This review is of a free ARC and reflects my own opinions*

A slow-building, medium-paced quest/hero's journey fantasy novel that builds to an explosive finish, "The Sinuous Bargain of a Cowardly Prince" is perfect for older teen or adult readers who enjoy Sarah Beth Durst, Juliet Marillier, or Christopher Paolini.

Here are 5 highlights/strengths, and then some of my thoughts:

5 Highlights:
1. Rami, one of the two narrators and main characters, is a scholar prince with a quiet strength that must be refined and revealed as he is tested throughout the story - and his genuine wholesomeness and naivete is refreshing and often charming, making him stand out as a more unconventional hero. He doesn't let the dark, miserable circumstances of his life and situation define him, and I loved that.
2. Elves that feel a little more goblin-esque in the best way, with multiple curses, features, and quirks that make them feel fresh. As much as I love Tolkien/Fair Folk adjacent or derivative elves, I really enjoy when someone has a completely different take, and Shi's elves fit that bill.
3. Plenty of mid-quest bickering: this is a fantasy standard (or it used to be), where all the characters air their biases and squabble in the name of character development, but you need plenty of adventuring to include it.
4. Worldbuilding: The story and plot have time to breathe and develop, with a whole world and history suggested, but that could be explored in sequels or prequels. I found myself very curious about the surrounding nations, for example, and how they see the warmongering, oppressive Arioch. I also am completely intrigued by the mages and the consequences of their dark magic. There is so much to be explored here.
5. The ending. I will avoid spoilers, but I think the ending is more daring than many fantasy books from the last ten years. It turns the story upside down and sets up for a sequel in a way that felt fresh but also satisfying.

A few more thoughts...

I always appreciate a novel that takes time to develop character relationships and suggest layers of lore, history, and politics of its world that can be further explored in a sequel, but do not require a sequel to be enjoyable or interesting, and this book fits that bill. In addition, it is one of the only books I have read with a *fated* couple that subverts the trope (among other tropes it subverts) and made it add to the story and character development, instead of being something I rolled my eyes at (as it usually is!). This book is also romance-lite, another plus, taking the time to develop characters and give emotional buildup that *could* lead to romance, rather than trying to convince us that proximity and availability = romance, which I always find refreshing. Finally, the art and embellishments inside are lovely and fit the mood, making me eager to see the physical book. I love a good design!

Bottom line: If you are looking for more old-school fantasy with contemporary sensibilities, a world that could go on for sequels, and characters that develop in interesting ways, this is the book for you. I will definitely read any sequels, and look forward to see what Shi writes next.

*note, this review is cross posted on StoryGraph and other platforms*

[Tall Tail Stories · Rating 4 out of 5]

🧵 Quick Blurb
A soft-hearted bastard prince in desperate need to prove himself. A furious elven warrior forced to share her talents with the enemy. And a kingdom that feeds on dark secrets and magic.
This romantasy debut blends slow-burn tension, reluctant alliances, emotional introspection, and political rot into a story where not every monster wears scales, and not every hero shines in light.

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❤️ Personal Takeaway

There was so many refreshing takes to old tropes that I thoroughly enjoyed 🥰 Ramiel is a sweet, kind prince who's never gotten experience with a blade, whereas Ether is a tiny elf that breaks the Tolkien-esque mould of tall and ethereal elves that dominate fantasy. Ramiel has dimples for days and keeps treats for his horse he dotes on, while Ether is a wild, big-footed, dirty soled elf who is so beautifully integrated into the woods she comes from.

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🧩 Tropes You’ll Love

- ✨ Enemies to reluctant allies
- 🐍 Warrior FMC trains the prince
- 👑 Bastard heir to the throne
- ⚔️ Duel for the crown
- 🥞 Cinnamon bun MMC
- 🗡 Stabby FMC
- 🐎 A boy and his horse
- 💔 Trauma-bonded slow-burn romance
- 🧬 Found family (with sharp edges)
- 🐉 Monster metaphors and moral ambiguity

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Genre: Romantic Fantasy / Sword & Sorcery
Series: The Shadowed Throne Chronicles, Book 1
Publication Date: October 21, 2025
Rating: ★★★★☆ (3.75 rounded up to 4)

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🐉 Summary

Prince Ramiel Faundor is a bastard, and his existence is the second-best-kept secret in a kingdom built on blurred lines. When his dragon-slaying brother dies, Ramiel is forced to take his place in the kingdom’s coronation duel. But no noble or soldier dares train him, thanks to the king’s intimidation. His only hope lies in Ether Malaphon, a cutthroat elven warrior raised to hate humans. As Ramiel and Ether strike a reluctant bargain, they uncover buried truths about the kingdom’s past, as well as truths within themselves.

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🧠 Themes

- Redemption and Self-Worth: Ramiel’s arc centers on reclaiming dignity in a system that deems him disposable.
- Freedom and Consent: Ether’s journey explores autonomy, especially when her skills and body are treated as political leverage.
- Power and Secrecy: The kingdom’s foundations are built on hidden truths... Ramiel’s birth, Ether’s magic, and the throne’s legacy.
- Sacrifice and Survival: Both characters must choose between personal safety and the greater good.
- Monsters and Morality: The story blurs lines between heroism and villainy, seeing enemies as monsters vs. the monstrosities hidden beneath the surface.

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🗡️ Characters
- Ramiel Faundor: Soft-hearted, untrained, and fundamentally out of his depth. His kind heart is his strength.
- Ether Malaphon: A fierce elven warrior with a vendetta against humans. Her trauma is real, and her loyalty hard-won.

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✒️ Style
Kayliani Shi’s prose is introspective and emotionally rich, prioritizing character development over flashy action. The pacing is medium, with tension building through dialogue, internal conflict, and slow reveals. The romantic fantasy elements are grounded in mutual growth, trust, and vulnerability rather than instant attraction.

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🗝️ Quotes (May be subject to change upon publication)
- “She was his chance for redemption. He was her key to freedom.”
- “Not every monster lives in shadow, and not every hero shines in light.”

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🧭 Recommendation

If you love emotionally driven romantasy with introspective characters, political intrigue, and slow-burn tension, this one’s for you.

Content Warnings: Violence, emotional trauma, magical coercion.

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Thank you very much to Kayliani Shi, Victory Editing, Candescent Ink Press, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review. 💕

[bella ⊹₊⟡⋆ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Candescent Ink Press and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC for this book! The following review is completely my own. The cover is beautiful and the title is definitely one of the more noteworthy ones I've ever seen.

I was originally going to rate this 3.5, but after that ending and some thought, I decided to round up to 4 stars. The premise caught my attention immediately—Prince Ramiel has been kept secret from his kingdom for his entire life, but after his older brother dies, he strikes a deal with an elven warrior named Ether in which she is to train him so he can ascend to the throne.

Right off the bat, Kayliani Shi's writing is striking. It's beautifully descriptive yet straightforward and really just a pleasure to read. Though the pacing is slow in some areas, the story flows well and the way the world is introduced feels natural, especially since it feels like we're piecing things together with Ramiel as he explores the world beyond the palace walls. I particularly liked that some typical fantasy creatures, like elves and fairies, were portrayed with more unique features and characteristics—that really did help with immersion, and I'm sure Shi had fun thinking those things through.

As for the characters, they were breaths of fresh air. I loved the dynamics between the three central characters (getting the third POV beyond Ramiel and Ether was a nice surprise!), and I very much enjoyed how Ramiel subverts the typical fantasy warrior prince protagonist archetype. In fact, the subversion of popular tropes and archetypes is what drew me into TSB in the first place. Romantic relationships aren't the only focus, either, which I appreciate, considering how important the overarching plot was. I'd love to learn about the process that led to the creation of Rami, Ether, and Ronan!

As for my critiques, I wish the world had been expanded upon more. I am aware that Shi marketed the book as more character-driven (and the characters are wonderfully written!) but more world building would've been wonderful, because the kingdom of Faundor has so much magic and history that I would've loved to read more of. The romance between Ramiel and Ether is well written in a technical sense, and I do like them together, but with the pacing, it feels more one sided on Ramiel's end. However, I'm anticipating more growth there because there are more books coming out, and it's nice to see a slower romance bloom. On that note, there wasn't nearly as much training as I thought would happen, but taking certain plot points and the timeline into account, it made sense.

In summary, TSB is a solid, refreshing debut novel that has me hungry for the upcoming sequel and prequel novella! I'm hoping for more world building and romance in the sequel, but most of all, I'm eager to return to Shi's writing and the kingdom of Arioch in the future, especially after that ending. This was such a unique read and I hope it gets the attention and success it deserves.

[Mariahmmm · Rating 2 out of 5]

Gut rating: ⭐⭐
CAWPILE rating: TBD
Spice: Kisses
Publication date: 21st October 2025

- prince & elf romance
- enemies to lovers
- slow burn
- he fell first
- fated mates
- forced proximity
- a magical prophecy
- dual POV

Trigger warnings: Rape, death of parent, death, bullying, blood, injury, kidnapping, war, abandonment, grief, violence, child abuse, classism, murder, colonisation

Quote: My heart stills, as though cradled by a pair of cold hands. She's beautiful, the owner of those hands seems to say, but she's dangerous, and she's your master. Not an object to gawk at. Certainly not an idol to foster an attraction for.

Synopsis:
Cursed by a prophecy foretelling he will one day take his father's life for the throne, 20yo bastard Prince Ramiel lives discarded in the palace, his identity kept a secret. When the crown Prince is slain in battle, Ramiel is thrust into his brother's place, if only he can prove himself worthy by slaying a dragon. With no battle skills, and no-one in the castle willing to risk their reputation on him, Ramiel makes a bargain with fugitive elf Ether for her help. But with many wanting Ramiel to fail, and Ramiel clearly inexperienced, Ether has a tough mission on her hands.

Review:
I requested this ARC because the concept of a strong female elf training a weak prince sounded like such a fun story with many opportunities for adventure and romance.

The book had great bones, with a vivid world, political intrigue, a realm overrun by war, and strong leads. I especially loved Ether's spitfire personality and how it contrasted so well with Ramiel's pampered character.

However, the story was let down by a rough and jumpy plot with unnecessary hurdles and uncharacteristic actions. The training aspect was almost completely absent, too, and turned into a sudden fated mates book that felt a little forced and didn't develop into anything romantic. The final cliffhanger made no sense with the story, either.

With thanks to the Publishers and NetGalley for providing me with this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Sarah Seltzer · Rating 3 out of 5]

Prince Ramiel, the bastard son of the king, has lived a sheltered existence until his older brother, the Crown prince, is killed in battle. With the help of his new protector Ronan and an elf warrior Ether, Ramiel is set to take his brother's place... if he can survive the fight of a lifetime.

As much as really wanted to enjoy this book, I didn't feel much of a connection to the story, the characters, or the world. Our MMC is painfully naive, which can maybe be acceptable considering his sheltered life, but he doesn't seem to pick up on things very quickly either. It took him about 75% of the book to discover something about himself that was obvious from the beginning. Our FMC and the MMC's friend/protector are more fleshed out characters with painful backgrounds of their own that make them good companions for our prince to help open his eyes a bit to the real world.
I feel a bit dejected at the fact that, while the FMC is supposed to be training our MMC to be battling for his crown and life, there's very little training that actually takes place. They discuss it here and there but there are only a couple scenes where we see it and it's not all that exciting. And unfortunately the big battle at the end that the prince was preparing for was anticlimactic to me. The best part of the book, and that which kept it from being sub-3 stars, was the very end after the anticlimactic battle. This twist was truly surprising and set the story up for some interesting plot points moving forward. However, I don't think I will continue the series.

Thanks to Netgalley for access to this arc in exchange for my review.

[Natty · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐ 4 /5

👑 Political and High Stakes
💔 Royal family drama
🌌 (Rejected) Fated mates
🔥 Enemies-ish to lovers
⚔️ Teacher x student
🖤 She's the badass, he's the cinnamon roll

Okay, this book started out so strong. The first half had me absolutely hooked — the trials, the tension, the political intrigue, all those “zero to hero” vibes I love. Ramiel’s journey had so much promise, I was hooked and flying through pages thinking “yesss this is it.”

But then somewhere after that point, the pacing went sideways. Things started to feel downplayed when they should’ve hit harder, and the heat hit out of nowhere. Like… huh? 👀 I know it’s going the fated mates route, but I wanted more build-up before the reveal — that delicious tension, the angst, the push and pull. Instead it felt rushed, and it took me out of the story a little.

Still, I can’t deny the book has a solid plot underneath, entertaining even. The trials and betrayals kept me turning pages, even if the execution sometimes felt messy. Even with filler moments that dragged, there’s still plenty of action, drama, and a romance thread that keeps pulling you along. And that ending? Of course it had to leave me hanging right when things were getting juicy. Definitely a setup for more books.

Overall, it’s not perfect — a little messy in execution — but I still had fun with it. It gave me enough drama and promise that I’ll probably peek into book two just to see where this chaos goes 👍🏻

_____

Thank you to Candescent Ink Press and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read the arc and to tell my honest review ✨

[Abbie Riddle · Rating 4 out of 5]

So, I had to wait on this review a few days. Just to figure out what I actually wanted to rate this book. There is so much I did enjoy about the book - the MMC is sweet, though underqualified. The world building is very light - which is disappointing and I fear that it might impact the overall feeling of the series. The book is marketed as medium pacing but I felt that at times (a lot of times) it was extremely slow in pacing. There was a lot of character build up and description while still managing to leave a lot undone.

Overall this is a quick and easy read. The story has a lot of potential and the characters arcs seems to be well developed and add to the over all feel of the book. I loved the premise of the plot - having a replacement prince to fulfill the prophecy. However, I felt I was missing something (due to lack of world building maybe??) regarding the king and the previous crown prince. I have to say - I did not like the return of one character in particular and I hope that he finds his defeat in the next book, but we will see. I was cheering for the cowardly prince (although this is not really true, he's far from cowardly). I think he's more naive than anything and this is a source of frustration.

In the end - I wish this book much success and hope to see a happy ending.

[Lydia Schriel · Rating 4 out of 5]

I did not expect that ending 🤯 I need the next one!!

Ramiel was always a nobody, someone who was made invisible that was until his brother died in battle. And now he has to slay the dragon to become the next king on the throne.

Ether grew up surviving and is a trained warrior (as Ramiel would say 🤭) that is until she is taken by the Sanvira for the king. And when she awoke in the town Arcanve without the Sanvira she met them and that’s when the journey begins.

Everything was under so much pressure that even I felt the fear coming from the pages. Ether had to try her best not to be found out by the king while helping Ramiel. But the secret wasn’t kept for long and the king threatened her to make her work for him. To make sure his second son fails at the trial.

Ether and Ronan both help Ramiel train and discover many truths to lies that has been told from generations and that’s what make then certain that Ramiel needs to defeat the dragon. Even Ramiel finding out more about his own heritage.

The moment the matebond showed up and Ether tried to fight it 🥹 oh those sweet little kiss moments and her excuse to transfer power to him. They are so cute!! I need the next book because I can absolutely not believe what happened when Ramiel was fighting the dragon!!

Recommend this to people who absolutely love romantasy ❤️‍🔥

[Hannah Persohn · Rating 4 out of 5]

***Spoiler free ARC Recommendation***
Expected to release 10/21/25

I appreciate receiving an advanced copy of The Sinuous Bargain of a Cowardly Prince. This story focused on Fairies, Elves, humans, and other mythical creatures with very interesting and unique magic structures! I found the main characters to be sweet and layered— Ramiel was downright *adorable*. His uncertain demeanor was a refreshing change of pace for main characters, I found him to be overall quite endearing.

The synopsis and information I had seen when requesting it peaked my interest; however, I did choose to forget what I knew about the story so I could enjoy it blindly. I personally struggled with the world building amongst the elves, I did think their magic system was intriguing though! The rest of the world building was more my speed and I was a bit enthralled with Ramiel’s backstory. I found myself grinning and laughing out loud during a lot of really cute and funny moments between the main characters, I was glad for a lighthearted read. There is plenty of seriousness, character developments that surprised me, and mystery to make it a well rounded story as well.

I recommend this book if you are searching for a charming, engaging, and easy read!

[Rachel Combs · Rating 4 out of 5]

Based off the cover, I was so sure I knew what kind of story this would be, and wow, I was wrong (in the best way). The Sinuous Bargain of a Cowardly Prince completely surprised me. It’s not your typical royal-fantasy-romance; it’s darker, more emotional, and honestly way more character-driven than I expected.

Prince Ramiel, a bastard prince who’s insecure and constantly overshadowed by his late brother, and Ether, a fierce and traumatized elven warrior who has every reason to hate humans. When their paths cross and a desperate bargain forces them to work together, everything shifts (for both of them).

The vibes? Political tension, ancient curses, training scenes, slow burn, and heavy emotional stakes. It’s got that reluctant hero, forced proximity, and enemies-to-allies (to maybe something more) energy that I love. The world feels layered and full of secrets, and both characters are written with real depth; messy, flawed, and so easy to root for.

This book ended up being nothing like I expected, but I genuinely couldn’t put it down. If you love slow-burn fantasy with rich worldbuilding, morally gray edges, and characters who actually grow, this one’s worth picking up.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5

[Feyfire · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to Netgalley/The publisher/the author for the ARC of: The Sinuous Bargain of a Cowardly Prince by Kayliani Shi.

This is my first book by this author (and I believe it might be her debut novel?) What really caught my attention at first was the title. It was a mouthful but it really drew my curiosity on what it meant, why that specifically. The artwork on the cover is very pretty. This novel is told in first person p.o.v. for Ramiel and Ether. I really enjoyed the spin on elves that Kayliani took in this book. This would be good for someone that likes light fantasy, some political dynamics, not terribly complicated worlds.The book is said to be medium paced, but I found it rather slow for my liking. I liked that there were elements in this book that I hadn't really seen a lot of in other books (like being concerned about their smelly feet in a scene). Character wise, I really liked Ronan the best. I didn't think there was much yearning and connection between Ramiel and Either(in my opinion). The story picked up for me towards the ending. I would say it has a decent set of bones, but I needed something more. There were some clunky phrasings in the writing that pulled me out of the story.

[Serenity Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

this was not what i was expecting. at all. and that’s what makes it so good. i went in thinking i’d get a typical story about a prince becoming stronger, but instead i found a book that challenged those expectations in the best way. it’s not about sheer strength; it’s about character, choices, and dynamics that feel surprisingly realistic.

what i loved most was the way the plot came together. the ending was a shock, but not the kind that comes out of nowhere. looking back, all the details were there, woven in where i didn't expect it. even as someone who barrels through books and remembers the tiniest clues, i still didn’t piece it all together until the final reveal. that balance of surprise and inevitability is rare for me, and it made the story stick with me.

the setup for the next book has me hooked. i’m invested in these characters and eager to see how the world shifts after certain events. it’s clever, refreshing, and absolutely worth the read.

[Rachel Feeck · Rating 3 out of 5]

I feel like the synopsis teases a tough-as-nails instructor X obnoxious pupil dynamic with a heavy dose of training montage, but instead the book actually delivers a band-of-misfits solving a political mystery. Fun in its own way, especially with the role reversal from common trends (i.e. the prince is the clueless one), but quite different from what I expected. The training? Starts after half way through. Swords and sparring? Pretty much all off-page. Sense of urgency and clashing personalities? Hm, well, not a lot.

(Is the bargain particularly sinuous, or the prince cowardly? Also debatable.)

So, what to expect?
- Ominous prophecy
- Forest elves with a mysterious curse
- Fairy v Elf feud
- Sleazy king we love to hate
- Dark Magic TM
- Mating bond, because sure, why not

I will say, I'd been under the impression this was a standalone, so that's on me for expecting the plot to move at a quick clip.

**Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC**

[Hope Balz · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story has a terrific prologue which gave us insight into Ramiel's past. Most books I say the prologue isn't needed but in this one I feel it was a great way to start. What I enjoyed most about this book was the ending because I did not see it coming and turning out the way that it did. The ending is what gave the book 4 stars. However, in part 2 we get introduced to a 3rd POV and only get 2 chapters of it. I do not think the pov was absolutely needed in order for the characters to stay relevant. I also feel as though some parts of the book felt dragged out and could have been shorter than they were. I say all of that to say stick with the book because it does have a great ending I did not see coming.

[Suri · Rating 3 out of 5]

The blurb for this story drew me in and I was so excited to see it play out. Having an FMC that was the elf warrior and trainer was such a different perspective and I enjoyed seeing her strength. The MMC, Ramiel, kind of annoyed me throughout the entire book. He was naive and just oblivious to the real world. Ronan was an interesting character. I didn't feel the chemistry with Ether and Ramiel. I honestly, felt more chemistry between Ether and Ronan. There wasn't a lot of world building or actual training occurring throughout the story. The magic system didn't make a whole lot of sense to me and I struggled with it at first. I slowly caught on and kept going on with the story.

The ending was not expected and I'm excited to continue the story in the next book. As a debut novel, this is great.