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La Captive de la cité déchue
" Nous avions perdu, mais je ne les laisserais jamais me conquérir. "
Leur amour interdit pourrait sauver l'empire... ou détruire tout espoir de liberté.
Lorsque la cité-État de Sorrena est conquise par l'armée de l'empereur Ryszard, Ilya, fille aînée de la souveraine, est conduite à Zhine en qualité d'otage. Elle y retrouve des visages familiers : les héritiers des cités-États voisines, eux aussi tombés aux mains de l'ennemi. Ayant vent d'une rébellion, Ilya se met en tête de séduire Lucien, le commandant en chef de l'empereur, pour glaner des informations et faire tomber le régime de l'intérieur.
Lucien est convaincu que soumettre les cités-États est la seule façon d'apporter la paix dans l'ensemble des royaumes. Or, les otages lui donnent du fil à retordre, Ilya en particulier. Alors qu'il se méfie d'elle, il ne peut nier son désir grandissant.
Le jour où Ilya découvre de sombres secrets qui ébranlent toutes les croyances de Lucien, celui-ci devra choisir entre sa loyauté envers l'empereur et le combat des résistants pour la liberté.
Leur amour interdit pourrait sauver l'empire... ou détruire tout espoir de liberté.
Lorsque la cité-État de Sorrena est conquise par l'armée de l'empereur Ryszard, Ilya, fille aînée de la souveraine, est conduite à Zhine en qualité d'otage. Elle y retrouve des visages familiers : les héritiers des cités-États voisines, eux aussi tombés aux mains de l'ennemi. Ayant vent d'une rébellion, Ilya se met en tête de séduire Lucien, le commandant en chef de l'empereur, pour glaner des informations et faire tomber le régime de l'intérieur.
Lucien est convaincu que soumettre les cités-États est la seule façon d'apporter la paix dans l'ensemble des royaumes. Or, les otages lui donnent du fil à retordre, Ilya en particulier. Alors qu'il se méfie d'elle, il ne peut nier son désir grandissant.
Le jour où Ilya découvre de sombres secrets qui ébranlent toutes les croyances de Lucien, celui-ci devra choisir entre sa loyauté envers l'empereur et le combat des résistants pour la liberté.
464 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published November 14, 2023
21 people are currently reading
1126 people want to read
About the author
Megan Van Dyke
18 books585 followersMegan Van Dyke is a fantasy romance author with a love for all things that include magic and kissing. Many of her stories include themes of family (whether born into or found) and a sense of home and belonging, which are important aspects of her life as well. Megan also watched way too many Disney movies as a child, and adult, and has a deep love for fairytales and happily-ever-afters.
Megan is a former IT risk and security executive and current stay-at-home mom. When not writing, Megan loves to cook, play video games, explore the great outdoors, and spend time with her family. A southerner by birth and at heart, Megan currently lives with her family in Colorado.
Megan is a former IT risk and security executive and current stay-at-home mom. When not writing, Megan loves to cook, play video games, explore the great outdoors, and spend time with her family. A southerner by birth and at heart, Megan currently lives with her family in Colorado.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 149 reviews
October 25, 2023
Enemies to lovers is one of my favorite tropes and so I knew I had to read this book as soon as I read the blurb. We get the POVs of both of our leads, Ilya and Lucien, which I really liked. It allows the reader to see and understand their motivations and the conflict within them as they start to fall for each other.
However, I found that the book had a tendency to tell rather than show me what was going on. So much time would pass between each chapters and we don’t get to see all that happened. It was just summarized in a few sentences at the beginning of the chapter. It made the progression of the plot and the romance feel jumbled and stilted at times. There were also some moments that were missing for me in order to believe that Lucien and Ilya had developed feelings for each other. Their relationship happened way too quickly for me to be fully on board and invested in them as a couple.
I also didn’t really like Ilya. I found that she never really came up with well thought out plans. Whenever there is a plot with the FMC going to spy on the enemy, I enjoy the story more when she is at least competent and can pull off the role of spy, which Ilya didn’t… Other characters would praise her for her wisdom and insight and I just didn’t believe it. She had done nothing to prove to me that she had any of those qualities. She came off as rather haughty and arrogant at times as well.
There was an interesting twist in the middle of the book that I didn’t see coming and that kept me interested in seeing how everything would play out. Overall, if you’re a fan of The Bridge Kingdom or Dance of Thieves, I would recommend checking out this book as it contains a lot of the same tropes.
Thank you to the author for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
However, I found that the book had a tendency to tell rather than show me what was going on. So much time would pass between each chapters and we don’t get to see all that happened. It was just summarized in a few sentences at the beginning of the chapter. It made the progression of the plot and the romance feel jumbled and stilted at times. There were also some moments that were missing for me in order to believe that Lucien and Ilya had developed feelings for each other. Their relationship happened way too quickly for me to be fully on board and invested in them as a couple.
I also didn’t really like Ilya. I found that she never really came up with well thought out plans. Whenever there is a plot with the FMC going to spy on the enemy, I enjoy the story more when she is at least competent and can pull off the role of spy, which Ilya didn’t… Other characters would praise her for her wisdom and insight and I just didn’t believe it. She had done nothing to prove to me that she had any of those qualities. She came off as rather haughty and arrogant at times as well.
There was an interesting twist in the middle of the book that I didn’t see coming and that kept me interested in seeing how everything would play out. Overall, if you’re a fan of The Bridge Kingdom or Dance of Thieves, I would recommend checking out this book as it contains a lot of the same tropes.
Thank you to the author for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
November 9, 2023
Captive of the Stolen Empire
As an ARC reader I have certain expectations for the books I read. One of those expectations being engaging enough for me to not only enjoy the story but finish it, this book did that. This story is full of suspense, enemies to lovers, and a captivating story. I found that I had a hard time putting this story down no matter how busy I became. This story captivated me with the characters and tribulations they went through. I bonded very easily to Ilya (one of the main characters). The details helped me easily bring this story to life in my mind. Overall I would say it was very well written and I would recommend it to anyone who loves a good Enemies to lovers story especially when paired with a protector angle.
As an ARC reader I have certain expectations for the books I read. One of those expectations being engaging enough for me to not only enjoy the story but finish it, this book did that. This story is full of suspense, enemies to lovers, and a captivating story. I found that I had a hard time putting this story down no matter how busy I became. This story captivated me with the characters and tribulations they went through. I bonded very easily to Ilya (one of the main characters). The details helped me easily bring this story to life in my mind. Overall I would say it was very well written and I would recommend it to anyone who loves a good Enemies to lovers story especially when paired with a protector angle.
November 30, 2023
This is a true enemies to lovers fantasy romance that is choke full of political intrigue, betrayal, sexual tension, and magic!
Right off the bat, I couldn’t help but admire Ilya’s fierceness and loyalty. She’s determined to do whatever it takes to protect her younger sister from becoming enslaved to the Emperor, even if that means making a deal with her enemy (Lucien, the Emperor’s number one).
I really enjoyed that this story alternates POVs between Ilya and Lucien because it really allows the reader to get greater insight into both characters while also making the sexual tension between the two fly off the charts.
The twists and turns that happen in the last 25% or so of the book had me hanging off of every word, and I’m intrigued to see what is in store next following that ending.
Thank you to the author and Book of Matches Media for providing a review copy. This did not influence my review. All opinions are my own.
Right off the bat, I couldn’t help but admire Ilya’s fierceness and loyalty. She’s determined to do whatever it takes to protect her younger sister from becoming enslaved to the Emperor, even if that means making a deal with her enemy (Lucien, the Emperor’s number one).
I really enjoyed that this story alternates POVs between Ilya and Lucien because it really allows the reader to get greater insight into both characters while also making the sexual tension between the two fly off the charts.
The twists and turns that happen in the last 25% or so of the book had me hanging off of every word, and I’m intrigued to see what is in store next following that ending.
Thank you to the author and Book of Matches Media for providing a review copy. This did not influence my review. All opinions are my own.
May 26, 2025
J’ai profité de sa réédition au format poche pour découvrir ce roman de Megan Van Dyke. Concrètement, nous sommes sur une romance-fantasy typique où l’intrigue est mise en retrait par rapport à la romance. C’est sans doute l’un de mes bémols de cette histoire, mais attention, je n’ai pas détesté, bien au contraire.
Nous faisons la connaissance d’Ilya de Sorrena, une héroïne intrépide qui se retrouve captive (invitée d’honneur de l’Empereur) suite à la défaite de son royaume contre les troupes de ce dernier qui cherche à annexer toutes les Cités-États. L’idée de base est intéressante.
Lucien, le commandant des armées est celui qui a vaincu et tué les soldats de Sorrena. Tout de suite les deux protagonistes sont attirés l’un par l’autre sans s’en rendre compte au début. On est sur le trope des enemies to lovers (un classique) avec de la proximité forcée, car à un moment dans le récit, Ilya va devoir cohabiter dans les quartiers de Lucien.
Nous avons les points de vue des deux héros, ce qui est pas mal pour mieux les comprendre.
Ilya va tout faire pour aider son peuple et les autres cités états à sortir du joug de l’Empereur. Ce dernier argue avoir de bonnes intentions, mais au fur et à mesure que l’histoire avance, on saisit que c’est bien plus complexe que ça.
J’ai vraiment aimé la plume de Megan Van Dyke et l’histoire en elle-même est plaisante à lire. Bien que j’avais deviné certains rebondissements, cela ne m’a pas gâché mon plaisir. Le fil scénaristique est bien agencé, on est happé dans le roman avec l’envie de voir Lucien ouvrir les yeux et Ilya réussir ses entreprises. Ce qui n’est guère facile.
La tension sexuelle entre eux est très présente et ils se tournent autour longtemps.
Comme je le disais plus haut, l’histoire est avant tout centrée sur la romance entre eux. Les débuts houleux jusqu’au point où tout va changer. Ce qui m’a embêtée c’est que du coup, toute l’intrigue autour de la guerre et des conflits avec les autres royaumes est vite expédiée, et qu’à la fin, rien n’est entièrement résolu.
Dans l’ensemble, j’ai passé un bon moment, je ne vous le cache pas. Le seul défaut du livre, à mes yeux, et cela reste entièrement suggestif, c’est que l’intrigue reste trop superficielle à mon goût. Elle aurait mérité une place un peu plus importante. Après, je pense que c’est un choix de l’autrice. Heureusement, j’ai aimé suivre Ilya et Lucien. Leur romance est top. Une belle surprise donc même si ça a manqué de fond pour que ce soit une lecture génialissime.
Nous faisons la connaissance d’Ilya de Sorrena, une héroïne intrépide qui se retrouve captive (invitée d’honneur de l’Empereur) suite à la défaite de son royaume contre les troupes de ce dernier qui cherche à annexer toutes les Cités-États. L’idée de base est intéressante.
Lucien, le commandant des armées est celui qui a vaincu et tué les soldats de Sorrena. Tout de suite les deux protagonistes sont attirés l’un par l’autre sans s’en rendre compte au début. On est sur le trope des enemies to lovers (un classique) avec de la proximité forcée, car à un moment dans le récit, Ilya va devoir cohabiter dans les quartiers de Lucien.
Nous avons les points de vue des deux héros, ce qui est pas mal pour mieux les comprendre.
Ilya va tout faire pour aider son peuple et les autres cités états à sortir du joug de l’Empereur. Ce dernier argue avoir de bonnes intentions, mais au fur et à mesure que l’histoire avance, on saisit que c’est bien plus complexe que ça.
J’ai vraiment aimé la plume de Megan Van Dyke et l’histoire en elle-même est plaisante à lire. Bien que j’avais deviné certains rebondissements, cela ne m’a pas gâché mon plaisir. Le fil scénaristique est bien agencé, on est happé dans le roman avec l’envie de voir Lucien ouvrir les yeux et Ilya réussir ses entreprises. Ce qui n’est guère facile.
La tension sexuelle entre eux est très présente et ils se tournent autour longtemps.
Comme je le disais plus haut, l’histoire est avant tout centrée sur la romance entre eux. Les débuts houleux jusqu’au point où tout va changer. Ce qui m’a embêtée c’est que du coup, toute l’intrigue autour de la guerre et des conflits avec les autres royaumes est vite expédiée, et qu’à la fin, rien n’est entièrement résolu.
Dans l’ensemble, j’ai passé un bon moment, je ne vous le cache pas. Le seul défaut du livre, à mes yeux, et cela reste entièrement suggestif, c’est que l’intrigue reste trop superficielle à mon goût. Elle aurait mérité une place un peu plus importante. Après, je pense que c’est un choix de l’autrice. Heureusement, j’ai aimé suivre Ilya et Lucien. Leur romance est top. Une belle surprise donc même si ça a manqué de fond pour que ce soit une lecture génialissime.
November 3, 2023
ARC NetCalley review
A fascinating passionate story with Game of Thrones and Princess of souls vibes - Captive of the Stolen Empire by Megan Van Dyke worth of attention!
Ilya Valerious was born to be ruler of the city-state of Sorrena in her mother's footsteps - until the tyrannical emperor conquered her homeland.
She plans a dangerous manoeuvre to free her home by seducing the commander, gathering intelligence for a growing rebellion and destroying them all from within.
She's a dangerous temptation he can ill-afford, especially when she begins to unearth long-hidden secrets that make him question not only his own past and his role in the Empire, but also the emperor to whom he's pledged his life.
With the fate of the Empire on the knife-edge, Ilya and Lucien must decide if their burgeoning love is worth sacrificing everything they've worked for. But that is only if the Emperor doesn't kill them off first.
The interesting plot and easy writing style make this book even more attractive. There is plenty of everything here - temptation and political intrigue and emotional experiences. I couldn't stop comparing them to the Hound and Sansa from Game of Thrones, but with a more developed storyline. The last lines seem to hint that we will see the main characters again and I would love to read the sequel.
A fascinating passionate story with Game of Thrones and Princess of souls vibes - Captive of the Stolen Empire by Megan Van Dyke worth of attention!
Ilya Valerious was born to be ruler of the city-state of Sorrena in her mother's footsteps - until the tyrannical emperor conquered her homeland.
She plans a dangerous manoeuvre to free her home by seducing the commander, gathering intelligence for a growing rebellion and destroying them all from within.
She's a dangerous temptation he can ill-afford, especially when she begins to unearth long-hidden secrets that make him question not only his own past and his role in the Empire, but also the emperor to whom he's pledged his life.
With the fate of the Empire on the knife-edge, Ilya and Lucien must decide if their burgeoning love is worth sacrificing everything they've worked for. But that is only if the Emperor doesn't kill them off first.
The interesting plot and easy writing style make this book even more attractive. There is plenty of everything here - temptation and political intrigue and emotional experiences. I couldn't stop comparing them to the Hound and Sansa from Game of Thrones, but with a more developed storyline. The last lines seem to hint that we will see the main characters again and I would love to read the sequel.
July 2, 2025
Une superbe lecture, j’ai passé un super moment avec tous les personnages. Tout est vraiment décuplé dans la Romantasy, les tropes, l’imaginaire, l’originalité, et c’est ce que j’adore.
Mention à la ME Roncière pour la qualité des livres encore une fois…
Mention à la ME Roncière pour la qualité des livres encore une fois…
March 16, 2025
3.75 ☆
If you are an enemies-to-lovers, slow burn romance girlie, then this book is for you!
Captive of the Stolen Empire follows Ilya, the Heiress of Sorrena (a small, sea-trading kingdom), as she’s taken hostage by the First Captain, Lucien, after he conquers her home in the name of his Emperor. In an effort to keep all of the defeated kingdoms in line, the heirs apparent are brought back to his home kingdom, the Zhine, and this is where Lucien and Ilya are thrown together.
Lucien and his fellow captains are hand-selected and rigorously trained warriors gifted with unique magics, and their loyalty lies solely with their Emperor. If he gives an order, there’s no hesitation — only action. Lucien, specifically, is gifted with powerful illusion magic by the God of Darkness, Erabus, and can trick his opponents minds into seeing whatever he desires. The captains are forbidden from forming relationships with the world, and ordered to wear a unique animalistic helmet, that hides their identities, making them nothing but ruthless, murderous “beasts.”
Ilya, the oldest daughter and future ruler of Sorrena, is intelligent, headstrong, calculating and has a great awareness of the political situation currently causing turmoil across the kingdoms. She’s been raised to take over the throne after her mother, and everything she’s accomplished in life to this point has been for her kingdom, not herself. She sees no future for herself but that as a leader of her people. Her entire identity has become her kingdom, and thus she’s willing to do whatever it takes to ensure their freedom, even if it means infiltrating the Emperor’s home and aiding the rebel forces, at her own peril.
From the moment they exchange words, Lucien is intrigued by Ilya. Likewise, while Ilya knows she should be disgusted by him and his actions as a brutal warrior, but she finds herself drawn to Lucien. The fact that their relationship is forbidden doesn’t stop Lucien’s mind from constantly wandering to Ilya. He tries to deny his pull to her, but fails, repeatedly, instead finding himself looking for excuses to be near her. Ilya goes back and forth between hate and desire, ultimately both strong emotions that blend in her feelings towards him 🔥
Both know that in their current circumstances, there is no possibility that they can be together. But they can’t keep their hands off each other! Finally, they reach a point where they have to decide, are they on the same team? Can they love one another without wanting the same sort of future for their kingdoms?
This book is extremely plot driven, but there is definitely spice! In no way does it take away from the scene, only adding to the kindling between our star-crossed lovers. The world-building and political fantasy elements of this were interesting and not difficult to follow. At no point did I feel overwhelmed with information thrown at me. While the ending felt slightly rushed, I didn’t hate it! I personally would have enjoyed a little more build up to the final climax, but the tender moments between Ilya and Lucien make up for any “missed” action. We get a HEA (thank GOSH), but it ends in a way that allows for more books to follow!
vibes are:
✨ enemies-to-lovers
✨ forced proximity
✨ slow burn romance
✨ forbidden love
✨ one bed
✨ touch her & 🗡️
✨ magic/illusions
✨ found family
Thank you to Megan Van Dyke and BOMM for the e-ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!
If you are an enemies-to-lovers, slow burn romance girlie, then this book is for you!
Captive of the Stolen Empire follows Ilya, the Heiress of Sorrena (a small, sea-trading kingdom), as she’s taken hostage by the First Captain, Lucien, after he conquers her home in the name of his Emperor. In an effort to keep all of the defeated kingdoms in line, the heirs apparent are brought back to his home kingdom, the Zhine, and this is where Lucien and Ilya are thrown together.
Lucien and his fellow captains are hand-selected and rigorously trained warriors gifted with unique magics, and their loyalty lies solely with their Emperor. If he gives an order, there’s no hesitation — only action. Lucien, specifically, is gifted with powerful illusion magic by the God of Darkness, Erabus, and can trick his opponents minds into seeing whatever he desires. The captains are forbidden from forming relationships with the world, and ordered to wear a unique animalistic helmet, that hides their identities, making them nothing but ruthless, murderous “beasts.”
Ilya, the oldest daughter and future ruler of Sorrena, is intelligent, headstrong, calculating and has a great awareness of the political situation currently causing turmoil across the kingdoms. She’s been raised to take over the throne after her mother, and everything she’s accomplished in life to this point has been for her kingdom, not herself. She sees no future for herself but that as a leader of her people. Her entire identity has become her kingdom, and thus she’s willing to do whatever it takes to ensure their freedom, even if it means infiltrating the Emperor’s home and aiding the rebel forces, at her own peril.
From the moment they exchange words, Lucien is intrigued by Ilya. Likewise, while Ilya knows she should be disgusted by him and his actions as a brutal warrior, but she finds herself drawn to Lucien. The fact that their relationship is forbidden doesn’t stop Lucien’s mind from constantly wandering to Ilya. He tries to deny his pull to her, but fails, repeatedly, instead finding himself looking for excuses to be near her. Ilya goes back and forth between hate and desire, ultimately both strong emotions that blend in her feelings towards him 🔥
Both know that in their current circumstances, there is no possibility that they can be together. But they can’t keep their hands off each other! Finally, they reach a point where they have to decide, are they on the same team? Can they love one another without wanting the same sort of future for their kingdoms?
This book is extremely plot driven, but there is definitely spice! In no way does it take away from the scene, only adding to the kindling between our star-crossed lovers. The world-building and political fantasy elements of this were interesting and not difficult to follow. At no point did I feel overwhelmed with information thrown at me. While the ending felt slightly rushed, I didn’t hate it! I personally would have enjoyed a little more build up to the final climax, but the tender moments between Ilya and Lucien make up for any “missed” action. We get a HEA (thank GOSH), but it ends in a way that allows for more books to follow!
vibes are:
✨ enemies-to-lovers
✨ forced proximity
✨ slow burn romance
✨ forbidden love
✨ one bed
✨ touch her & 🗡️
✨ magic/illusions
✨ found family
Thank you to Megan Van Dyke and BOMM for the e-ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!
January 5, 2024
Super riveting and emotional read! It starts with an absolutely gripping and heart-rending scene as Ilya (FMC) has to watch her kingdom absolutely destroyed and the people she loves slaughtered. Then, she is taken by Lucien (MMC), the man responsible for all the destruction at the hands of his emperor.
It is a gripping tale full of rich storylines and deep emotions, as Ilya must live in and with the very people who annihilated everything and everyone she loves. As time goes one, however, she sees small chinks in the strength and armor of the emperor’s kingdom and she learns that Lucien isn’t quite the person she assumed him to be. His devotion to his liege is layered, yet perplexing. Oh, so much to unpack in one book! The relationship between Ilya and Lucien could have used more time and depth so we can actually buy into the changes and understand the motivations behind them. But, everything else is pure reading addiction!
It is a gripping tale full of rich storylines and deep emotions, as Ilya must live in and with the very people who annihilated everything and everyone she loves. As time goes one, however, she sees small chinks in the strength and armor of the emperor’s kingdom and she learns that Lucien isn’t quite the person she assumed him to be. His devotion to his liege is layered, yet perplexing. Oh, so much to unpack in one book! The relationship between Ilya and Lucien could have used more time and depth so we can actually buy into the changes and understand the motivations behind them. But, everything else is pure reading addiction!
November 3, 2023
I received an eARC from the author as part of their street team in exchange for an honest review. It has not affected my opinions.
CAPTIVE OF THE STOLEN EMPIRE is an enemies to lovers romance set in an empire that takes heirs of conquered states hostages, without realising that maybe they might bring it down from within.
This book is a nice mix of plot (bring down the empire) and romance (will Lucien and Ilya get together?) There is action and lots of tension that comes from the external plot, as well as magic.
As a reader drawn more to plot and less to romance, I enjoyed the major obstacle to their pair's happiness being external. The empire could easily be the thing that draws them apart - or kills one or both. That was the biggest challenge to them being together, bringing both the romantic and external stakes into one, that helped push the tension and stakes up.
The book is told from both Ilya and Lucien's perspective, her trying to destroy the empire and him starting to wonder if all he's been taught is true.
As I read more romances (of the various sub-genres) I am definitely coming to the opinion that I tend to prefer them when I get both sides. That way you can understand what each person sees in the other, what's drawing them together. Yes, single POV romances can be fun (REPUTATION, A LADY'S GUIDE TO SCANDAL), but there the depth of feeling is very one sided.
This, however, felt very measured. Ilya and Lucien gain from each other. I liked that the lies they were unlearning were very similar - the whole "it's easier to see a blind spot someone else has than spot it in yourself."
It's a well contained standalone, and one where I didn't feel like another book was being set up and just enjoyed it for it as a complete tale. I do really like series, but sometimes you just want something that's one and done, for the happily ever after not to be challenged.
CAPTIVE OF THE STOLEN EMPIRE is an enemies to lovers romance set in an empire that takes heirs of conquered states hostages, without realising that maybe they might bring it down from within.
This book is a nice mix of plot (bring down the empire) and romance (will Lucien and Ilya get together?) There is action and lots of tension that comes from the external plot, as well as magic.
As a reader drawn more to plot and less to romance, I enjoyed the major obstacle to their pair's happiness being external. The empire could easily be the thing that draws them apart - or kills one or both. That was the biggest challenge to them being together, bringing both the romantic and external stakes into one, that helped push the tension and stakes up.
The book is told from both Ilya and Lucien's perspective, her trying to destroy the empire and him starting to wonder if all he's been taught is true.
As I read more romances (of the various sub-genres) I am definitely coming to the opinion that I tend to prefer them when I get both sides. That way you can understand what each person sees in the other, what's drawing them together. Yes, single POV romances can be fun (REPUTATION, A LADY'S GUIDE TO SCANDAL), but there the depth of feeling is very one sided.
This, however, felt very measured. Ilya and Lucien gain from each other. I liked that the lies they were unlearning were very similar - the whole "it's easier to see a blind spot someone else has than spot it in yourself."
It's a well contained standalone, and one where I didn't feel like another book was being set up and just enjoyed it for it as a complete tale. I do really like series, but sometimes you just want something that's one and done, for the happily ever after not to be challenged.
November 9, 2023
Exciting, beguiling, amusing and stunning, “Captive of the Stolen Empire” tells the story of Ilya Valerious, heir to city Sorrena – now conquered by Emperor Ryszard’s army led by his first-in-command captain Lucien, a masked man possessing dark magic. To him, she is an intriguing yet defiant, fiery-tempered woman, one he knows will give him ample of trouble both on the road and off. Ilya is taken hostage to the emperor’s residence, as leverage to ensure full compliance from her people, something which has been done with other heirs.
On the journey, she discovers development of a rebellion against the empire, which she intends to aid by taking it down from within with the help of the other captured heirs. She decides the best yet most dangerous way to go about this is to seduce and gather information from Lucien. Of course, she does not expect things to get complicated, torn between duty and matters of the heart. Will she betray her friends or her foe she now has feelings for? Will she succeed in bringing down the empire? And the more Lucien spends time with Ilya, the more he questions his past and all he knows. But is she only using and manipulating him into siding with them?
Being a fan of the enemies-to-lovers trope and of both medieval and fantasy novels, I was immediately drawn to this story. This is the first book I have read by Megan Van Dyke and I am glad I encountered this as it is an incredible introduction to her work. With perfect pacing, an ideal story length, good characterisation and description, I was engrossed in reading this I couldn’t put it down! Megan was able to set the scene, detail fictional locations, provide lore and make it all fairly straightforward to follow. I will need to check her other novels out – posthaste!
This is interestingly told from a dual point of view from both Ilya and Lucien. I am more used to books being either third person or first person but told from one POV, which can sometimes be too one-sided, so I really liked this. It moves the story along nicely, and it allows the reader to understand how each of them tick, what their thoughts are, and draw from this some parallels. Ilya has only ever known how to be a ruler, all of which is now taken from her and she struggles to learn who she is without her titles; Lucien has only ever known working for the emperor as he was raised by him since he was a boy, but circumstances arise which makes him question who he is behind his titles too. I loved their bond over this, the deep conversations they have about their sense of identity, and picking each other up when they need it. It is beautifully written and I think we can all reflect on the times we have struggled in finding ourselves, who we are and what our purpose is.
Ilya and Lucien are very well written, I absolutely adore them! I love the banter they have both witty and deep, and how protective he is of her. The other characters all contribute nicely to the plot and served a purpose – none of them were unnecessary. I also like the fact that there are female soldiers in the emperor’s army.
Honourable mentions of moments are the following: Chapters 11 and 12 when Ilya tries to flirt with Lucien . Their chemistry is so good! Chapters 21 and 22, one moment I was giggling and kicking my feet all giddy , the next I was screaming . Chapter 37, need I say any more? And Chapter 51 was everything, you will see what I mean!
There were some twists and turns, some rather predictable but did not detract from enjoying the plot unfold. The only things I would say dissatisfied me were: the ending, though I liked the plot, felt a little rushed as ; I would have liked to have learned more about how the magic worked in the world, how The Four selected people to bestow the gift; and finally, I would have liked to have seen Ilya growing stronger at the end of the book. Don’t get me wrong, I love her determination and mental resilience and I want Ilya to be able to hold her own. Perhaps Lucien could train her: a diplomat and a warrior? That would be an amazing combination!
This is, I understand, the first released book of the “Isla’s Gambit” series, so there is room for further information and character development the regards mentioned above.
If you like “A Court of Thornes and Roses” or “The Witcher” series, “The Bridge Kingdom” and “King of Battle and Blood”, this book is for you!
I am honoured to have been selected as an ARC reader for this book, and I’d like to thank Megan for the opportunity.
On the journey, she discovers development of a rebellion against the empire, which she intends to aid by taking it down from within with the help of the other captured heirs. She decides the best yet most dangerous way to go about this is to seduce and gather information from Lucien. Of course, she does not expect things to get complicated, torn between duty and matters of the heart. Will she betray her friends or her foe she now has feelings for? Will she succeed in bringing down the empire? And the more Lucien spends time with Ilya, the more he questions his past and all he knows. But is she only using and manipulating him into siding with them?
Being a fan of the enemies-to-lovers trope and of both medieval and fantasy novels, I was immediately drawn to this story. This is the first book I have read by Megan Van Dyke and I am glad I encountered this as it is an incredible introduction to her work. With perfect pacing, an ideal story length, good characterisation and description, I was engrossed in reading this I couldn’t put it down! Megan was able to set the scene, detail fictional locations, provide lore and make it all fairly straightforward to follow. I will need to check her other novels out – posthaste!
This is interestingly told from a dual point of view from both Ilya and Lucien. I am more used to books being either third person or first person but told from one POV, which can sometimes be too one-sided, so I really liked this. It moves the story along nicely, and it allows the reader to understand how each of them tick, what their thoughts are, and draw from this some parallels. Ilya has only ever known how to be a ruler, all of which is now taken from her and she struggles to learn who she is without her titles; Lucien has only ever known working for the emperor as he was raised by him since he was a boy, but circumstances arise which makes him question who he is behind his titles too. I loved their bond over this, the deep conversations they have about their sense of identity, and picking each other up when they need it. It is beautifully written and I think we can all reflect on the times we have struggled in finding ourselves, who we are and what our purpose is.
Ilya and Lucien are very well written, I absolutely adore them! I love the banter they have both witty and deep, and how protective he is of her. The other characters all contribute nicely to the plot and served a purpose – none of them were unnecessary. I also like the fact that there are female soldiers in the emperor’s army.
Honourable mentions of moments are the following: Chapters 11 and 12 when Ilya tries to flirt with Lucien . Their chemistry is so good! Chapters 21 and 22, one moment I was giggling and kicking my feet all giddy , the next I was screaming . Chapter 37, need I say any more? And Chapter 51 was everything, you will see what I mean!
There were some twists and turns, some rather predictable but did not detract from enjoying the plot unfold. The only things I would say dissatisfied me were: the ending, though I liked the plot, felt a little rushed as ; I would have liked to have learned more about how the magic worked in the world, how The Four selected people to bestow the gift; and finally, I would have liked to have seen Ilya growing stronger at the end of the book. Don’t get me wrong, I love her determination and mental resilience and I want Ilya to be able to hold her own. Perhaps Lucien could train her: a diplomat and a warrior? That would be an amazing combination!
This is, I understand, the first released book of the “Isla’s Gambit” series, so there is room for further information and character development the regards mentioned above.
If you like “A Court of Thornes and Roses” or “The Witcher” series, “The Bridge Kingdom” and “King of Battle and Blood”, this book is for you!
I am honoured to have been selected as an ARC reader for this book, and I’d like to thank Megan for the opportunity.
November 7, 2023
3 stars
Thank you to the author for an e-ARC to review. All thoughts are my own.
Unfortunately, I didn't quite enjoy this one as much as I had anticipated. Ilya and Lucien are from two sides of the empire, one working for its success, and the other captured to protect her homeland from further destruction. I love a good enemies to lovers, so I was excited to see how this would play out.
I did appreciate the dual POV of this story. Getting to understand more about why each character worked with their beliefs and acted as they did helped this story a good deal. It was intriguing to see the manipulation of the emperor and how it affected both of them in very different ways. I also appreciated seeing their alliances and how betrayals were seen from the different POVs.
That said, I wasn't convinced in Ilya as a main character. I found her actions inconsistent, and her spying abilities very weak. Her plans were never fully fleshed out, and she reacted too quickly and recklessly, often with the consequence of hurting others. She didn't learn from her mistakes either and took more than she was willing to give back, always falling onto the same excuse of trying to help the rebellion from the inside and protecting her people, whilst simultaneously putting her closest allies at risk time and time again. She wasn't very likeable, and her decision to seduce Lucien was rather out of the blue and inconsistent with her other actions.
I didn't see the appeal to this as an enemies to lovers. Whilst it was clear at the end of the book that both Ilya and Lucien felt something for each other, it wasn't developed enough to feel rewarding or realistic. One day, they hated each other, the next they were lusting to get their clothes off. The build-up just wasn't long enough for me to satisfy the trope, and the romance aspect felt rushed.
There was also far too much telling than showing the events, both with the storyline and the romance, and I think that this became less of an issue when the twists of the story came to light. I enjoyed the last portion of this book, the culmination of the secrets that were unveiled, and the change of alliances made. The rebellion, once actively on page, was intriguing but not enough time was spent there to invest in it before the end came. I can see that this world is set up so it could easily continue, but I'm not sure I'm invested enough to find out if the rebellion succeeds in taking out the corruption of the empire or not.
The magical system was interesting, and I would have enjoyed seeing more of how the empire cultivated such magic and trained it. It was one of the things that was talked about but not shown nearly enough, and I would have loved to learn more about how the magic worked over a longer period of time.
Overall, I commend Van Dyke's attempt with a high fantasy story. There are some good plot devices and storytelling moments in here that, with some further experience writing in this sub-genre, could lead to something special.
Thank you to the author for an e-ARC to review. All thoughts are my own.
Unfortunately, I didn't quite enjoy this one as much as I had anticipated. Ilya and Lucien are from two sides of the empire, one working for its success, and the other captured to protect her homeland from further destruction. I love a good enemies to lovers, so I was excited to see how this would play out.
I did appreciate the dual POV of this story. Getting to understand more about why each character worked with their beliefs and acted as they did helped this story a good deal. It was intriguing to see the manipulation of the emperor and how it affected both of them in very different ways. I also appreciated seeing their alliances and how betrayals were seen from the different POVs.
That said, I wasn't convinced in Ilya as a main character. I found her actions inconsistent, and her spying abilities very weak. Her plans were never fully fleshed out, and she reacted too quickly and recklessly, often with the consequence of hurting others. She didn't learn from her mistakes either and took more than she was willing to give back, always falling onto the same excuse of trying to help the rebellion from the inside and protecting her people, whilst simultaneously putting her closest allies at risk time and time again. She wasn't very likeable, and her decision to seduce Lucien was rather out of the blue and inconsistent with her other actions.
I didn't see the appeal to this as an enemies to lovers. Whilst it was clear at the end of the book that both Ilya and Lucien felt something for each other, it wasn't developed enough to feel rewarding or realistic. One day, they hated each other, the next they were lusting to get their clothes off. The build-up just wasn't long enough for me to satisfy the trope, and the romance aspect felt rushed.
There was also far too much telling than showing the events, both with the storyline and the romance, and I think that this became less of an issue when the twists of the story came to light. I enjoyed the last portion of this book, the culmination of the secrets that were unveiled, and the change of alliances made. The rebellion, once actively on page, was intriguing but not enough time was spent there to invest in it before the end came. I can see that this world is set up so it could easily continue, but I'm not sure I'm invested enough to find out if the rebellion succeeds in taking out the corruption of the empire or not.
The magical system was interesting, and I would have enjoyed seeing more of how the empire cultivated such magic and trained it. It was one of the things that was talked about but not shown nearly enough, and I would have loved to learn more about how the magic worked over a longer period of time.
Overall, I commend Van Dyke's attempt with a high fantasy story. There are some good plot devices and storytelling moments in here that, with some further experience writing in this sub-genre, could lead to something special.
November 26, 2023
Rating: 4/5
Spice: 2.5/5
I was pleasantly surprised by this read! I’m not one who usually enjoys this type of enemies to lovers books, where the main lead tries to seduce the other into giving them what they want. I always find myself feeling bad. Plus all of the miscommunication that comes from it. So I definitely was happy to see that although things like that did happen in this book it didn’t take long for things to resolve themselves.
I like the plot a lot in this book. The power dynamic and all of the secrets that unfolded was interesting to see. It really played heavy on “you never truly know who you can trust”. I loved seeing all the powers of the blessed! Especially Lucien’s illusions. It is a power you can do a lot with. No wonder he had many who feared him. Zurina’s powers to communicate with animals was another fascinating ability that I didn’t realize aided them in so many ways. The politics in this story were easy to follow. I find myself easily confused when there are too many things thrown at us. But everything was explained very well!
I really enjoyed Lucien as a main male lead, but found Ilya to be a little lacking. I didn’t dislike her character but she is also easily forgettable. I did like her mental strength when it came down to dealing with troubling situations, but her recklessness was very obvious and did harm many. I will say it was admirable to see she can own up to her mistakes, which definitely added points for me. If anything she is loyal to the cause and will do anything for the one’s she cares for.
This story was easy to read and easy to follow. Definitely held my interest. I loved the twists..although I did see a few coming. This was my first book by this author but definitely won’t be my last!
Spice: 2.5/5
I was pleasantly surprised by this read! I’m not one who usually enjoys this type of enemies to lovers books, where the main lead tries to seduce the other into giving them what they want. I always find myself feeling bad. Plus all of the miscommunication that comes from it. So I definitely was happy to see that although things like that did happen in this book it didn’t take long for things to resolve themselves.
I like the plot a lot in this book. The power dynamic and all of the secrets that unfolded was interesting to see. It really played heavy on “you never truly know who you can trust”. I loved seeing all the powers of the blessed! Especially Lucien’s illusions. It is a power you can do a lot with. No wonder he had many who feared him. Zurina’s powers to communicate with animals was another fascinating ability that I didn’t realize aided them in so many ways. The politics in this story were easy to follow. I find myself easily confused when there are too many things thrown at us. But everything was explained very well!
I really enjoyed Lucien as a main male lead, but found Ilya to be a little lacking. I didn’t dislike her character but she is also easily forgettable. I did like her mental strength when it came down to dealing with troubling situations, but her recklessness was very obvious and did harm many. I will say it was admirable to see she can own up to her mistakes, which definitely added points for me. If anything she is loyal to the cause and will do anything for the one’s she cares for.
This story was easy to read and easy to follow. Definitely held my interest. I loved the twists..although I did see a few coming. This was my first book by this author but definitely won’t be my last!
November 28, 2023
3.8⭐️
When I stumble upon a fantasy romance book and see the enemies to lovers trope, I simply have to read it. There is nothing quite as exhilarating as seeing two people who dislike one another slowly fall in love. Add in a great plot, a sprinkle of seduction and magic, and I'm sold.
At its core, Captive of the Stolen Empire is a novel about a merciless Emperor who conquers under the guise of peace, and how one of his 'guests'/prisoners turns the heart of his first captain. This book has a perfect balance between plot and romance and the spice does not overwhelm the main storyline.
Ilya is our FMC, she headstrong, calculating and tenacious. There is no fear when she is escorted to live as the Emperor’s 'honored guest', just pure determination to bring him down from within his own walls.
Lucien, our MMC and first captain, wields the power of illusion and is the one to escort Ilya to Zhine. He is a very mysterious character, until he can no longer deny his pull towards Ilya and he starts showing her bits and pieces of himself.
The best decision the author made was giving us dual pov's. Seeing the thought process of how these two characters skillfully played a game of seduction with each other, was utterly captivating. It also allowed us to see how their affection for each other grew and how the little seeds planted started to unravel the mystery of Lucien's past.
If you enjoy political intrigue, betrayal, found family and forced proximity reminiscent of The Bridge Kingdom, then I would recommend Captive of the Stolen Empire.
This book gifted to me by the author. All views are my own
When I stumble upon a fantasy romance book and see the enemies to lovers trope, I simply have to read it. There is nothing quite as exhilarating as seeing two people who dislike one another slowly fall in love. Add in a great plot, a sprinkle of seduction and magic, and I'm sold.
At its core, Captive of the Stolen Empire is a novel about a merciless Emperor who conquers under the guise of peace, and how one of his 'guests'/prisoners turns the heart of his first captain. This book has a perfect balance between plot and romance and the spice does not overwhelm the main storyline.
Ilya is our FMC, she headstrong, calculating and tenacious. There is no fear when she is escorted to live as the Emperor’s 'honored guest', just pure determination to bring him down from within his own walls.
Lucien, our MMC and first captain, wields the power of illusion and is the one to escort Ilya to Zhine. He is a very mysterious character, until he can no longer deny his pull towards Ilya and he starts showing her bits and pieces of himself.
The best decision the author made was giving us dual pov's. Seeing the thought process of how these two characters skillfully played a game of seduction with each other, was utterly captivating. It also allowed us to see how their affection for each other grew and how the little seeds planted started to unravel the mystery of Lucien's past.
If you enjoy political intrigue, betrayal, found family and forced proximity reminiscent of The Bridge Kingdom, then I would recommend Captive of the Stolen Empire.
This book gifted to me by the author. All views are my own
January 1, 2024
⚔️ What’s it about?
The emperor is laying siege to the city-states, using his magical captains to seize them and bring in royal family members as hostages to keep the city-states in line.
Ilya is taken from Sorrena, but is determined to help the rebels from inside the walls of her new prison. But in order to do that, she will need to win over Captain Lucien, an illusion master to her side.
The two hate each other fiercely, but when Lucien rescues Ilya and keeps her in his rooms, the ice between the two begins to thaw, and slowly they begin to trust and fall for one another.
But danger and treachery lurk around every corner and how can two people on opposing sides of a war be together?
⚔️ My thoughts:
This was one of those books I found myself picking up every spare second I had. The threat level for Ilya kept me turning pages well into the night.
I loved the unfolding of Lucien’s story and how his past resurfaced when it mattered most.
I was very interested in the magic of the captains, though the world’s magic system was never really explained. I would have loved more of that—why some have magic and most don’t.
And the chemistry between Ilya and Lucien was off the charts! Loved them together and how they grew together beyond their designated political roles.
Highly recommend this one!
November 4, 2023
Thank you NetGalley for providing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
⭐ 3
Captive of the Stolen Empire is exactly what you'd expect from a romantasy of this type. The stabby, headstrong FMC and the shadow-powered MMC fall in love and if that's your jam, you'll love this. I got a fair bit of King of Battle and Blood energy from this novel, much more so than Serpent and the Wings of Night.
The prose is easy to follow and I enjoyed the lore and implementation of the godly pantheon of Van Dyke's world but I found myself not caring too deeply for the characters. It is dual POV, an aspect I liked a lot, but too much of the feelings/inner workings of the characters were told to us outright in the text for my taste. There was a lot of "This character reminds me of my little sister, whom I love, therefore I must protect them" and therefore felt like there was not a lot of trust on the part of the reader to make those connections themselves through the context of the book. That being said, the characters never annoyed me or engaged in stupid decisions that had my mind reeling.
I enjoyed the book and if you like the aspects I mentioned before that are common within the genre, I really suggest giving it a try!
⭐ 3
Captive of the Stolen Empire is exactly what you'd expect from a romantasy of this type. The stabby, headstrong FMC and the shadow-powered MMC fall in love and if that's your jam, you'll love this. I got a fair bit of King of Battle and Blood energy from this novel, much more so than Serpent and the Wings of Night.
The prose is easy to follow and I enjoyed the lore and implementation of the godly pantheon of Van Dyke's world but I found myself not caring too deeply for the characters. It is dual POV, an aspect I liked a lot, but too much of the feelings/inner workings of the characters were told to us outright in the text for my taste. There was a lot of "This character reminds me of my little sister, whom I love, therefore I must protect them" and therefore felt like there was not a lot of trust on the part of the reader to make those connections themselves through the context of the book. That being said, the characters never annoyed me or engaged in stupid decisions that had my mind reeling.
I enjoyed the book and if you like the aspects I mentioned before that are common within the genre, I really suggest giving it a try!
November 12, 2023
• “I didn’t matter who she was. A fallen heiress. A captive. My enemy. She saw me, and nothing could stop me from wanting her now.” •
I really liked this book, enemis to lovers is one of my favorite tropes and in this book it was built very well, as well as the political intrigues of the various city-states.
wb is present and I really appreciated the description in which the author makes us understand the different traditions and customs of the various cities.
Moving on to the characters, I chose Lucien over Ilya.
Ilya is very devoted to her city, Sorrena, but her development during the book I didn’t feel it that much and sometimes I didn’t understand some choices she made.
Lucien, first captain of the emperor, was the character that in my opinion has changed the most. From his blind devotion to the Kingdom’s peace goals, he will discover thanks to Ilya that not everything is what it seems.
I would have liked to know more about his backstory as well as that of the other captains, Zurina, Warren and their powers.
The twists were not lacking and some were very unexpected.
Overall this book is very smooth and keeps glued to the pages chapter by chapter to see what will happen.
I really liked this book, enemis to lovers is one of my favorite tropes and in this book it was built very well, as well as the political intrigues of the various city-states.
wb is present and I really appreciated the description in which the author makes us understand the different traditions and customs of the various cities.
Moving on to the characters, I chose Lucien over Ilya.
Ilya is very devoted to her city, Sorrena, but her development during the book I didn’t feel it that much and sometimes I didn’t understand some choices she made.
Lucien, first captain of the emperor, was the character that in my opinion has changed the most. From his blind devotion to the Kingdom’s peace goals, he will discover thanks to Ilya that not everything is what it seems.
I would have liked to know more about his backstory as well as that of the other captains, Zurina, Warren and their powers.
The twists were not lacking and some were very unexpected.
Overall this book is very smooth and keeps glued to the pages chapter by chapter to see what will happen.
November 5, 2023
Thank you so so much to the wonderful author for sharing an ARC of this book with me!!!
“You’re playing with fire, Lucien.
I huffed a laugh at my thoughts. If only fire burned half so hotly as the woman in my quarters.”
“Twice now, Lucien had saved me from a horrible fate. My enemy. Perhaps an ally?”
Perfect, unique, wonderful, complicated but oh so amazing enemies to lovers fantasy romance story!!!
Forced proximity, one bed, constant banter, impossible mutual attraction and a rebellion going through that he wants to stop and she wants to light on fire. They are each other’s opposite but oh, so similar. She is his captive and he is her captor. Ilya and Lucien’s story is one out of the fairytales we all love. It grasps you from moment one and keeps you in a tight hold until the very end. He is so hot and brooding and still so incredibly attracted to her, and when he shows his own possessive side … I’m all for the game!!! And she is exactly the same. She is trying to make a rebellion spark right under his nose. But when they will get too close to each other … what then? Betrayal to the one you’ve grown close to or to the family you already have and almost lost? And it was a spicy romance !!!! Loved every second of it!!! Goosebumps and chills and constant butterfly every single time he said something !!! And don’t let me start with the found family trope they both find themselves in. I found it absolutely marvellous!! It seems to be a common denominator for this author’s books and it is something I’m in love with!!
The HEA at the end … it was perfect!!!! I loved it!!! I needed it !!!! I needed to know that there was hope and happiness and peace … the way it should be after everything that happens in this story!! I so need more!!!
“The dice had been rolled, and only time would tell if I’d hit a winning number or a damning one.”
“My name, on your lips.” He stroked my bottom lip for emphasis. “The most beautiful sound I’ve ever heard. Say it again.”
“I’ve only been one thing for as long as I can remember, but you make me want to be something else, something more.”
“You’re playing with fire, Lucien.
I huffed a laugh at my thoughts. If only fire burned half so hotly as the woman in my quarters.”
“Twice now, Lucien had saved me from a horrible fate. My enemy. Perhaps an ally?”
Perfect, unique, wonderful, complicated but oh so amazing enemies to lovers fantasy romance story!!!
Forced proximity, one bed, constant banter, impossible mutual attraction and a rebellion going through that he wants to stop and she wants to light on fire. They are each other’s opposite but oh, so similar. She is his captive and he is her captor. Ilya and Lucien’s story is one out of the fairytales we all love. It grasps you from moment one and keeps you in a tight hold until the very end. He is so hot and brooding and still so incredibly attracted to her, and when he shows his own possessive side … I’m all for the game!!! And she is exactly the same. She is trying to make a rebellion spark right under his nose. But when they will get too close to each other … what then? Betrayal to the one you’ve grown close to or to the family you already have and almost lost? And it was a spicy romance !!!! Loved every second of it!!! Goosebumps and chills and constant butterfly every single time he said something !!! And don’t let me start with the found family trope they both find themselves in. I found it absolutely marvellous!! It seems to be a common denominator for this author’s books and it is something I’m in love with!!
The HEA at the end … it was perfect!!!! I loved it!!! I needed it !!!! I needed to know that there was hope and happiness and peace … the way it should be after everything that happens in this story!! I so need more!!!
“The dice had been rolled, and only time would tell if I’d hit a winning number or a damning one.”
“My name, on your lips.” He stroked my bottom lip for emphasis. “The most beautiful sound I’ve ever heard. Say it again.”
“I’ve only been one thing for as long as I can remember, but you make me want to be something else, something more.”
November 25, 2023
Look, I’m a sucker for a story where we’re overthrowing an evil emperor, and this was a GREAT one! And with the added complication of the MC falling for his favored captain? Seriously the makes for such a good story.
This starts off with high tension and terrifying odds, as we first meet Ilya after her kingdom has already fallen. She is an easy MC to love, always led by her bravery and wit, and also taking every step she can to benefit her own kingdom and home. Her attraction to Lucien is not immediate as he is hidden behind a mask and armor, so seeing that aspect of the story unfold was so fun and full of surprises.
The world where this story takes place is so interesting, I really didn’t want to leave it. The political and war landscapes really grabbed my attention and had me intrigued about who could and couldn’t be trusted. The way Ilya stumbles across (and in some cases, loses) her allies was unexpected in the best way, and made so much sense come the end.
I ultimately think this is the perfect story for so many fantasy romance fans, especially if you’re ever feeling put off by the idea of starting a long series with lots of commitment. This standalone has everything I find myself chasing in fantasy romance, delivered in a digestible and enjoyable package!
Thank you so much to @authormeganvandyke and @bookofmatchesmedia for the review copy of this beauty 💕 I will definitely be returning to Van Dyke’s stories in the future!
This starts off with high tension and terrifying odds, as we first meet Ilya after her kingdom has already fallen. She is an easy MC to love, always led by her bravery and wit, and also taking every step she can to benefit her own kingdom and home. Her attraction to Lucien is not immediate as he is hidden behind a mask and armor, so seeing that aspect of the story unfold was so fun and full of surprises.
The world where this story takes place is so interesting, I really didn’t want to leave it. The political and war landscapes really grabbed my attention and had me intrigued about who could and couldn’t be trusted. The way Ilya stumbles across (and in some cases, loses) her allies was unexpected in the best way, and made so much sense come the end.
I ultimately think this is the perfect story for so many fantasy romance fans, especially if you’re ever feeling put off by the idea of starting a long series with lots of commitment. This standalone has everything I find myself chasing in fantasy romance, delivered in a digestible and enjoyable package!
Thank you so much to @authormeganvandyke and @bookofmatchesmedia for the review copy of this beauty 💕 I will definitely be returning to Van Dyke’s stories in the future!
November 20, 2023
As soon as I saw the tropes for this I knew I immediately had to pick it up. It ended up being great and definitely delivered on the forbidden romance😏 The reason it’s a 4 star and not a 5 is because I feel like the romance pacing was a little off. And yes that is different than the overall pacing of the story (which was perfect).
I’m SO happy this didn’t end on a cliffhanger! I feel very content with where the characters are at but am still very excited and looking forward to the next book.
Thank you to the author for providing me a copy to review!
I’m SO happy this didn’t end on a cliffhanger! I feel very content with where the characters are at but am still very excited and looking forward to the next book.
Thank you to the author for providing me a copy to review!
November 14, 2023
Amazing story! Lucien and Ilya are strong as individuals, but stronger together, in many different ways. Two different upbringings, that leads them fighting in a war opposite each other. It's a quick narrative, could not put it down, always wanting to know more and more about these characters, about this empire and how the various relationships evolve.
It's a captivating story, pardon the pun, perfect for all those that want something different, epic and romantic to read.
It's a captivating story, pardon the pun, perfect for all those that want something different, epic and romantic to read.
April 8, 2025
4.5 ⭐
Perfect standalone romantasy! This is my third book by Megan Van Dyke and yet again she does a phenomenal job with her world building, politics + magic system and setting the scene. Everything was easy to understand while still keeping me intrigued.
This is a true enemies to lovers story, with a couple of twists I did not see coming. There are also some great found family moments and high stakes scenarios.
I really enjoyed every second of this book.
Perfect standalone romantasy! This is my third book by Megan Van Dyke and yet again she does a phenomenal job with her world building, politics + magic system and setting the scene. Everything was easy to understand while still keeping me intrigued.
This is a true enemies to lovers story, with a couple of twists I did not see coming. There are also some great found family moments and high stakes scenarios.
I really enjoyed every second of this book.
November 1, 2023
3.5 stars!
This was an interesting read… Unlike most romance/fantasy MMC, Lucien came across as a bit insecure. This makes sense for many reasons, but it’s quite uncommon in these genres from my experience. It made him more real, whereas most heroes are our perfect, ideal men. I’m not sure I liked it to be honest - I like my fantasy to be a fantasy! 😜 I would also say that Ilya went against the typical norm as well and was far less obviously flawed than most FMC in these genres. It was an interesting switch! This was an intriguing story, one that I steadily worked my way through, but it wasn’t all consuming. It felt a bit slow at times. Typically there is a lot more action in enemies to lovers stories, which is not to say there wasn’t any action. There was! Quite a bit towards the end! Overall, I enjoyed it and happily read it over the course of a few days.
Thank you to the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
This was an interesting read… Unlike most romance/fantasy MMC, Lucien came across as a bit insecure. This makes sense for many reasons, but it’s quite uncommon in these genres from my experience. It made him more real, whereas most heroes are our perfect, ideal men. I’m not sure I liked it to be honest - I like my fantasy to be a fantasy! 😜 I would also say that Ilya went against the typical norm as well and was far less obviously flawed than most FMC in these genres. It was an interesting switch! This was an intriguing story, one that I steadily worked my way through, but it wasn’t all consuming. It felt a bit slow at times. Typically there is a lot more action in enemies to lovers stories, which is not to say there wasn’t any action. There was! Quite a bit towards the end! Overall, I enjoyed it and happily read it over the course of a few days.
Thank you to the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
April 3, 2024
This one took me a while to finish. I wanted to love it so much but sadly something was missing and everything felt rushed. This story would have been better for a duology that way the characters would have more time grow. I did like and enjoy some parts of the book and i found parts of the story were unique and different from other books.
September 2, 2024
Sometimes you just crave something and the book hits right! This one was exactly that, a mood read that was exactly what I wanted!
Read if you like:
Enemies to lovers
Forced proximity
Found family
Forbidden love
Slow burn
Captive/Captor
Medieval vibes
If I'm being completely honest, books with a medieval vibe are probably my favourite thing... I want all the castles, war raging, knights in armour and I don't mind a good old kidnapping or hostage situation (sue me) haha so yeah, they always hit right for me and this one was no exception.
The enemies-to-lovers trope was absolutely perfect and with the added forced proximity and captive situation, I was in heaven honestly. I adored Lucien from the start, there was no doubt about it. He is such a powerful man, trying to do the right thing and his story melted my heart. I loved seeing him start to question things and opening more to Ilya. And the way he was protective of her was just swoony.
I really enjoyed the way the plot progressed, the story was captivating. The dual POV was really beneficial as it was easy to understand both characters and what motivated their actions. The way they started to doubt things and how their vision of each other changed with time was nice to follow. The fantasy side of this story was super interesting, I loved the powers these characters had and how they used them.
I cannot say that any of the twists really surprised me but it was still delightful to read. I was a bit disappointed in some of our FMC actions to be honest but well... I'm always more attached to the MMC so I get angry on their behalf really easily, haha, oopsie!
You can expect great banter, interesting magic, political intrigue, betrayals, and all the tension in this one! I definitely recommend it!
Thanks to MTMC Tours and the author for my e-copy as part of the cover reveal tour. All opinions are my own.
Read if you like:
Enemies to lovers
Forced proximity
Found family
Forbidden love
Slow burn
Captive/Captor
Medieval vibes
If I'm being completely honest, books with a medieval vibe are probably my favourite thing... I want all the castles, war raging, knights in armour and I don't mind a good old kidnapping or hostage situation (sue me) haha so yeah, they always hit right for me and this one was no exception.
The enemies-to-lovers trope was absolutely perfect and with the added forced proximity and captive situation, I was in heaven honestly. I adored Lucien from the start, there was no doubt about it. He is such a powerful man, trying to do the right thing and his story melted my heart. I loved seeing him start to question things and opening more to Ilya. And the way he was protective of her was just swoony.
I really enjoyed the way the plot progressed, the story was captivating. The dual POV was really beneficial as it was easy to understand both characters and what motivated their actions. The way they started to doubt things and how their vision of each other changed with time was nice to follow. The fantasy side of this story was super interesting, I loved the powers these characters had and how they used them.
I cannot say that any of the twists really surprised me but it was still delightful to read. I was a bit disappointed in some of our FMC actions to be honest but well... I'm always more attached to the MMC so I get angry on their behalf really easily, haha, oopsie!
You can expect great banter, interesting magic, political intrigue, betrayals, and all the tension in this one! I definitely recommend it!
Thanks to MTMC Tours and the author for my e-copy as part of the cover reveal tour. All opinions are my own.
October 20, 2023
Megan always writes amazing plots and spice. The angst between Ilya and Lucien was a good slow burn. It did take me a while to get my head around all of the other characters but I love how they all had a part to play. The magic element tied everthing together beautifully in the end and i found myself reading faster an dfaster yo get to the end.
If you are a fan of -
*Enemies to lovers
*Touch her, and you die
*Found family
*Magic
This is for you.
If you are a fan of -
*Enemies to lovers
*Touch her, and you die
*Found family
*Magic
This is for you.
December 3, 2023
Loved this book! As a beginner to fantasy romance, this book captivated me! Absolutely loved it! Absolutely loved the characters, especially the mmc!
April 23, 2024
Megan van Dyke does the well-trodden enemies-to-lovers trope in ‘Captive of the Stolen Empire’ when a small kingdom—and its heir apparent—is overrun by a conquest-thirsty empire—led by a land-hungry emperor and his ever-loyal first-in-command. Ilya Valerious can’t ever forget how her kingdom and identity were stolen in a heartbeat, no less by the fearsome Captain Lucien who runs the emperor's campaigns bloody and triumphant. But the lines between captor and captive start to blur when Ilya sees Lucien for who he is and might really be, just as the fractures in a so-called unified empire begin to show.
Van Dyke is a recent discovery and thus far, I’ve quite liked that I’ve read, as fantasy/fairy-tales romances are given their own clever spin and their own lines of adventure that deviate (quite enjoyably so) from the originals. Yet ‘Captive of the Stolen Empire’ didn’t exactly live up to my expectations, given its more new-adultish feel and characters that seem like they’re more play-actors than ‘flesh-and-blood’ imprints on the page.
Maybe it’s due to the use of the first-person POV that I found too ‘young-sounding’ for both Ilya and Lucien; Ilya came across as an inconsistent teenager who ran between impulse and the need to stick to duty after her capture. Lucien on the other hand, had more depth that I wished van Dyke could have plumbed further, especially when it came to the PTSD he must have faced in the years since he was taken under the emperor’s wing.
There are so many other aspects of this fantasy world that van Dyke could have delved into more appreciably: the magic that some received from the 4 gods, the whole mechanics of the emperor, Lucien’s distorted family line and maybe even more about the city-states that had been conquered and assimilated into the emperor’s growing empire. They’re all world-building elements that I found way too interesting to pass up on, but was only given crumbs to chew on as van Dyke glossed past these in favour of delving deeper into Ilya’s and Lucien’s characters—to limited success as they simply turned out as frustrating characters who were led round and round by their own confusing thoughts rather than given the ability to communicate.
Yet at the last quarter…just as the action was ramping up and the truths started to unfold: the story wrapped up when I thought it should have just begun. What I thought should have been chapters turned out to be mere sentences that rushed over the meaty bits that I was really waiting to get into. Consequently, upon reaching the last page, it didn’t feel as though there’d been any significant progress made apart from a small victory against an empire that’s still looming over its rebelling conquests, of which Lucien/Ilya are only a small and minor part. In fact, I would have liked to see how things would have progressed past the compromise that they both made, rather than just read about vague promises of only being together while their problems still loom large in the background.
But this is really where the story ends (really?!), which actually left me checking several times (and in disbelief) if my copy of the book was incomplete.
Not my favourite van Dyke story obviously, but crossing my fingers that the next would be back to its winning ways.
Van Dyke is a recent discovery and thus far, I’ve quite liked that I’ve read, as fantasy/fairy-tales romances are given their own clever spin and their own lines of adventure that deviate (quite enjoyably so) from the originals. Yet ‘Captive of the Stolen Empire’ didn’t exactly live up to my expectations, given its more new-adultish feel and characters that seem like they’re more play-actors than ‘flesh-and-blood’ imprints on the page.
Maybe it’s due to the use of the first-person POV that I found too ‘young-sounding’ for both Ilya and Lucien; Ilya came across as an inconsistent teenager who ran between impulse and the need to stick to duty after her capture. Lucien on the other hand, had more depth that I wished van Dyke could have plumbed further, especially when it came to the PTSD he must have faced in the years since he was taken under the emperor’s wing.
There are so many other aspects of this fantasy world that van Dyke could have delved into more appreciably: the magic that some received from the 4 gods, the whole mechanics of the emperor, Lucien’s distorted family line and maybe even more about the city-states that had been conquered and assimilated into the emperor’s growing empire. They’re all world-building elements that I found way too interesting to pass up on, but was only given crumbs to chew on as van Dyke glossed past these in favour of delving deeper into Ilya’s and Lucien’s characters—to limited success as they simply turned out as frustrating characters who were led round and round by their own confusing thoughts rather than given the ability to communicate.
Yet at the last quarter…just as the action was ramping up and the truths started to unfold: the story wrapped up when I thought it should have just begun. What I thought should have been chapters turned out to be mere sentences that rushed over the meaty bits that I was really waiting to get into. Consequently, upon reaching the last page, it didn’t feel as though there’d been any significant progress made apart from a small victory against an empire that’s still looming over its rebelling conquests, of which Lucien/Ilya are only a small and minor part. In fact, I would have liked to see how things would have progressed past the compromise that they both made, rather than just read about vague promises of only being together while their problems still loom large in the background.
But this is really where the story ends (really?!), which actually left me checking several times (and in disbelief) if my copy of the book was incomplete.
Not my favourite van Dyke story obviously, but crossing my fingers that the next would be back to its winning ways.
September 30, 2024
J’ai tout aimé de cette romantasy en one-shot, les personnages, l’univers et les dénouements.
La plume de Megan était vraiment addictive, j’ai eu du mal à la lire doucement. J’aurai aimé passer + de temps dans son univers…
L’intrigue elle, était très bien menée. Celle-ci n’est pas si originale mais la façon dont elle a amené les choses la rendait très intrigante. J’ai beaucoup aimé l’univers et le world-building même si celui-ci aurait pu être + développé. C’est malheureusement le point négatif d’une romantasy en one-shot. Après, compte tenu des éléments, ça reste crédible et bien ficelé.
Concernant nos protagonistes, gros coup de cœur pour les personnages qui ont une psychologie bien développée. Ilya, malgré son immaturité à certains passages, était très rafraîchissante. Elle est fougueuse et courageuse. Son tempérament m’a souvent fait rire.
Lucien lui, est charismatique et on tombe très très vite sous le charme de ce monsieur. Son développement bien que prévisible était pile ce que je cherchais dans ce roman.
La tension dans ce duo était à son paroxysme. J’AI ADORÉ. Attention cependant, il s’agit d’un roman à destination d’un public averti contenu des scènes explicites. Faites attention à vous.
En bref, c’est une romantasy avec un enemies-to-lovers quasi-parfaite en tant que one-shot. C’est une histoire parfaite pour les lecteurs de romance voulant se mettre à la fantasy sans pour autant perdre la romance. Bien que celle-ci soit supérieur à la fantasy dans ce livre, la plume de l’autrice rend tout cela bien fluide. J’espère également que vous ne vous frustrez pas rapidement parce que là… vous serez servi 😉
La plume de Megan était vraiment addictive, j’ai eu du mal à la lire doucement. J’aurai aimé passer + de temps dans son univers…
L’intrigue elle, était très bien menée. Celle-ci n’est pas si originale mais la façon dont elle a amené les choses la rendait très intrigante. J’ai beaucoup aimé l’univers et le world-building même si celui-ci aurait pu être + développé. C’est malheureusement le point négatif d’une romantasy en one-shot. Après, compte tenu des éléments, ça reste crédible et bien ficelé.
Concernant nos protagonistes, gros coup de cœur pour les personnages qui ont une psychologie bien développée. Ilya, malgré son immaturité à certains passages, était très rafraîchissante. Elle est fougueuse et courageuse. Son tempérament m’a souvent fait rire.
Lucien lui, est charismatique et on tombe très très vite sous le charme de ce monsieur. Son développement bien que prévisible était pile ce que je cherchais dans ce roman.
La tension dans ce duo était à son paroxysme. J’AI ADORÉ. Attention cependant, il s’agit d’un roman à destination d’un public averti contenu des scènes explicites. Faites attention à vous.
En bref, c’est une romantasy avec un enemies-to-lovers quasi-parfaite en tant que one-shot. C’est une histoire parfaite pour les lecteurs de romance voulant se mettre à la fantasy sans pour autant perdre la romance. Bien que celle-ci soit supérieur à la fantasy dans ce livre, la plume de l’autrice rend tout cela bien fluide. J’espère également que vous ne vous frustrez pas rapidement parce que là… vous serez servi 😉
November 15, 2023
Captive of the Stolen Empire begins with Ilya being taken as a hostage to her city-state’s good behavior by the captain of the Emperor’s guard. The Emperor has been slowly crushing and conquering the disparate city-states, and her land joins the others in being under his boot. As heir to Sorrena, her fury knows no bounds, but her hands are tied. She focuses that fury on the Emperor’s First, a guard named Lucien, who is intrigued by her fiery nature. When an attack along the road reveals to her hidden rebels rising against the Emperor, she becomes determined to do her part and aid them. Setting her sights on Lucien as her best bet for information when snooping fails. With the other heirs of her neighboring city-states assisting, she sets about finding a way to free them from the Emperor’s lust for power. And hidden secrets about Lucien and the other guards may be the key.
I loved how Ilya came into the Emperor’s castle and immediately was able to galvanize the other heirs stuck there. Lucien was able to see this right away. She’s a leader by both nurture and nature, fiery and confident. The game Ilya plays of trying to find out information is stressful for my anxiety at her getting caught, but was great. She’s incredibly obvious at times, leading to her ending up staying with Lucien to be monitored. But she learns to be a bit more covert. Unfortunately for her, she begins to have feelings for Lucien, complicating everything for her. Especially when the others are able to see it, and think she’s turned against them.
Lucien, on the other hand, is the epitome of a loyal soldier. He doesn’t question the Emperor, believing in his mission of bringing the city-states together into a peaceful and prosperous empire. Ilya comes into his world and begins to shake things up. He’s never been distracted by a woman like this, as the Emperor has forbidden attachments. But he’s unable to stay away from her. He’s torn between his growing feelings for Ilya and his dedication to the Emperor. Wanting to believe she’ll turn to their side and see what he sees. But the more time he spends with her, the more barriers she breaks down, the more he sees the flaws in the Emperor and his plans. Especially as the Emperor grows increasing erratic and his orders more wretched.
And then there’s the secret Ilya discovers. The Emperor forces his guards, who all wield magic, to always be hidden by armor. Never allowed to reveal themselves to others. But Lucien ends up breaking this for Ilya. And when she sees a certain mark, she puts the pieces of the Emperor’s misdeeds together. This plot point was really interesting. Especially as they go to Trale, where Lucien begins to see the truth in what Ilya is telling him. And he’s not the only one. Unraveling this and seeing his reaction to it was great. He’s so conflicted and you really feel that pain of being torn in two directions at first, and then as that becomes the pain of finding out the truth and dealing with all that brings up. There’s a lot of complicated emotions for him!
The story is a standalone, so I expected the romance to be the focus, but more was given to the overarching plot of the Emperor than I expected. From Ilya’s rooting for information to the truth of the guards to the confrontation at the end. I really enjoyed the story and while I sort of wish we got a conclusion with the Emperor himself, I really liked what we got! The romance between Ilya and Lucien was really cute. Both of them discovering what it’s like to put their title aside and live for themselves for once. Both of them had, in different ways, become their titles, and had nothing outside of it of worth to them. Finding one another, they finally have the chance to discover who they truly are as well. Literally in Lucien’s case! But I loved seeing them two of them finding their way together through their differing ideals and beliefs, and figuring out that their love was the most important thing to them both!
I received an eARC of this book. This is my honest review.
I loved how Ilya came into the Emperor’s castle and immediately was able to galvanize the other heirs stuck there. Lucien was able to see this right away. She’s a leader by both nurture and nature, fiery and confident. The game Ilya plays of trying to find out information is stressful for my anxiety at her getting caught, but was great. She’s incredibly obvious at times, leading to her ending up staying with Lucien to be monitored. But she learns to be a bit more covert. Unfortunately for her, she begins to have feelings for Lucien, complicating everything for her. Especially when the others are able to see it, and think she’s turned against them.
Lucien, on the other hand, is the epitome of a loyal soldier. He doesn’t question the Emperor, believing in his mission of bringing the city-states together into a peaceful and prosperous empire. Ilya comes into his world and begins to shake things up. He’s never been distracted by a woman like this, as the Emperor has forbidden attachments. But he’s unable to stay away from her. He’s torn between his growing feelings for Ilya and his dedication to the Emperor. Wanting to believe she’ll turn to their side and see what he sees. But the more time he spends with her, the more barriers she breaks down, the more he sees the flaws in the Emperor and his plans. Especially as the Emperor grows increasing erratic and his orders more wretched.
And then there’s the secret Ilya discovers. The Emperor forces his guards, who all wield magic, to always be hidden by armor. Never allowed to reveal themselves to others. But Lucien ends up breaking this for Ilya. And when she sees a certain mark, she puts the pieces of the Emperor’s misdeeds together. This plot point was really interesting. Especially as they go to Trale, where Lucien begins to see the truth in what Ilya is telling him. And he’s not the only one. Unraveling this and seeing his reaction to it was great. He’s so conflicted and you really feel that pain of being torn in two directions at first, and then as that becomes the pain of finding out the truth and dealing with all that brings up. There’s a lot of complicated emotions for him!
The story is a standalone, so I expected the romance to be the focus, but more was given to the overarching plot of the Emperor than I expected. From Ilya’s rooting for information to the truth of the guards to the confrontation at the end. I really enjoyed the story and while I sort of wish we got a conclusion with the Emperor himself, I really liked what we got! The romance between Ilya and Lucien was really cute. Both of them discovering what it’s like to put their title aside and live for themselves for once. Both of them had, in different ways, become their titles, and had nothing outside of it of worth to them. Finding one another, they finally have the chance to discover who they truly are as well. Literally in Lucien’s case! But I loved seeing them two of them finding their way together through their differing ideals and beliefs, and figuring out that their love was the most important thing to them both!
I received an eARC of this book. This is my honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 29, 2023
◦ I've received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review ◦
⮞ 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬 ⮜
Ilya - The beginning when we first meet her, that scene was so beautifully portrayed. I really loved how defiant she was looking, strong and so conflicted. Definitely, that scene stays in my head rent-free. I loved her character, and while she wasn't the best spy which seemed accurate since she wasn't raised as one, I still think she tried her best for her people and I liked that while she loved her empire, she wanted something more.
Lucien - I loved the way he was portrayed. In the beginning, he's the bad guy, along the way you understand his loyalty, but in the end, you get to know him doing the right thing no matter the loyalty and I loved his growth. He's a morally grey character since he's a knight and has to do what the king says, but he has a redeemable arc. And when he said "My Ilya" it almost broke me how powerful those two words felt through pages.
There are other characters that drive the story forward or add to the plot to the story. One of the characters, I felt he was the stupidest one of them all and always put them into trouble and I think he had the end he deserved because I felt he was always up to no good neither for the people that were going against the king but also neither for the people that were following the king, he was just a pain and never liked him.
⮞ 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝-𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 ⮜
The world-building isn't the main thing, nor does it get a lot of details/time on it. But you do get enough details of where you are, how things look, and political stuff too which were more than enough to paint you the picture of the map of this story.
⮞ 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐈 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞𝐝/𝐝𝐢𝐬𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞𝐝 ⮜
I liked the pace of the story, was pretty quick and there were quite a few stuff happening. Halfway through the story things slowed down a little bit because the story was building toward the big plot twist, other than that I felt the pace of the story was just perfect - not too fast, not too slow. I loved the way Ilya and Lucien were together, even tho I felt their relationship went a bit too quickly, but considering the story is short I guess something had to give in. Overall I enjoyed it, and gave me all the feels with their forbidden love.
⮞ 𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞/TW ⮜
There is spice in the story, is not a clean romance but is also not overly smutty. The story didn't trigger me, however, there are some scenes of "fake torture", also normal torture, almost assault, decapitation, and fighting scenes.
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⮞ 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬 ⮜
Ilya - The beginning when we first meet her, that scene was so beautifully portrayed. I really loved how defiant she was looking, strong and so conflicted. Definitely, that scene stays in my head rent-free. I loved her character, and while she wasn't the best spy which seemed accurate since she wasn't raised as one, I still think she tried her best for her people and I liked that while she loved her empire, she wanted something more.
Lucien - I loved the way he was portrayed. In the beginning, he's the bad guy, along the way you understand his loyalty, but in the end, you get to know him doing the right thing no matter the loyalty and I loved his growth. He's a morally grey character since he's a knight and has to do what the king says, but he has a redeemable arc. And when he said "My Ilya" it almost broke me how powerful those two words felt through pages.
There are other characters that drive the story forward or add to the plot to the story. One of the characters, I felt he was the stupidest one of them all and always put them into trouble and I think he had the end he deserved because I felt he was always up to no good neither for the people that were going against the king but also neither for the people that were following the king, he was just a pain and never liked him.
⮞ 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝-𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 ⮜
The world-building isn't the main thing, nor does it get a lot of details/time on it. But you do get enough details of where you are, how things look, and political stuff too which were more than enough to paint you the picture of the map of this story.
⮞ 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐈 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞𝐝/𝐝𝐢𝐬𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞𝐝 ⮜
I liked the pace of the story, was pretty quick and there were quite a few stuff happening. Halfway through the story things slowed down a little bit because the story was building toward the big plot twist, other than that I felt the pace of the story was just perfect - not too fast, not too slow. I loved the way Ilya and Lucien were together, even tho I felt their relationship went a bit too quickly, but considering the story is short I guess something had to give in. Overall I enjoyed it, and gave me all the feels with their forbidden love.
⮞ 𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞/TW ⮜
There is spice in the story, is not a clean romance but is also not overly smutty. The story didn't trigger me, however, there are some scenes of "fake torture", also normal torture, almost assault, decapitation, and fighting scenes.
Follow me on my bookventure:
TikTok
Always open to read and review more books🠇
Review Policy
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