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Wicked Realms #1
Savage Is My Kingdom: Wicked Realms: 1
Two ruthless kings at war.
A princess with a terrible power.
Four broken warriors sworn to protect her.
When I was dragged from my home by the Fae King’s vicious enforcer, I left my old life as a slave behind to become a pawn in an ancient game between two powerful brothers, the bearer of a stolen magic that could break kingdoms. Or forge a new one.
But I have a secret.
I can make this power mine, by sacrificing my most precious possession. My innocence.
While ruthless males go to war over this terrible magic I never asked for, there is only one future for me.
Claim the power, take the throne, become a queen.
The closer I grow to my beautiful warriors, I discover I have more to lose than ever before. Some say love conquers all, but our dark bond could be the spark that leaves this wicked world in ruin.
**Savage Is My Kingdom is steamy dark fantasy romance with elements of forbidden love, found family, lost heir, age gap, morally gray men, enemies to lovers, reluctant heroes, plot heavy romance, wicked Fae, monsters, political conflict and forced proximity with enough spice to keep you reading all night long.
A princess with a terrible power.
Four broken warriors sworn to protect her.
When I was dragged from my home by the Fae King’s vicious enforcer, I left my old life as a slave behind to become a pawn in an ancient game between two powerful brothers, the bearer of a stolen magic that could break kingdoms. Or forge a new one.
But I have a secret.
I can make this power mine, by sacrificing my most precious possession. My innocence.
While ruthless males go to war over this terrible magic I never asked for, there is only one future for me.
Claim the power, take the throne, become a queen.
The closer I grow to my beautiful warriors, I discover I have more to lose than ever before. Some say love conquers all, but our dark bond could be the spark that leaves this wicked world in ruin.
**Savage Is My Kingdom is steamy dark fantasy romance with elements of forbidden love, found family, lost heir, age gap, morally gray men, enemies to lovers, reluctant heroes, plot heavy romance, wicked Fae, monsters, political conflict and forced proximity with enough spice to keep you reading all night long.
Unknown Binding
First published August 28, 2023
490 people are currently reading
2728 people want to read
About the author
L.A. McGinnis
119 books366 followersFueled by black coffee, ice cream and bad nineties music, L.A. McGinnis spends her days writing best-selling steamy fantasies filled with damaged heroes who long to be whole and smart, authentic heroines. A life-long fascination with storytelling inspired her to weave these contemporary tales of legendary fated mates where the princess never needs rescuing, but sometimes the hero does.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 146 reviews
November 21, 2023
I'm really going to try to finish this, but man it is an absolute bore and chore. By 7%, it was lackluster. By 12%, I was having to force myself to keep reading. I'm at 57% and the MC is annoying, flippant one minute and "woe is me" the next.
The writing is just not good. Certain words and phrases are repeated frequently, sometimes a page apart, sometimes in the same sentence. And it's often confusing as to who is talking. The same character will be talking in two paragraphs back to back, almost like they're talking to themselves. Which is another thing- there's randomly italicized sentences or pieces of sentences. Not always to emphasize words, and only sometimes to indicate a character is thinking to themselves.
There are a lot of things that just don't make sense. MC is a slave and apparently the only one who reads (never explains how or why this is) and though they are beaten for the smallest infraction, she manages to spend hours in the library learning the history of the Fae. She doesn't know anything about the geography of the land she's lived in for 18 years, but has studied maps of the Fae lands. At one point, she talks about how she is measured every day for dresses (why? Do her measurements change that significantly from one day to the next?) and then later says she only knows how dress fittings work from her days as a slave and watching the spoiled upperclass. Hypocritical, no? Considering she's been doing the same thing for a week. And she spends all week shopping and buying things... With what money exactly? Are people just giving her things? Because they literally cannot speak to her (due to a spell) so is she just taking stuff from shops? In the span of an hour, she goes from having no idea how to ride a horse (again, strange because it took days of riding to get there) to being a natural in the saddle, to flying off the most docile horse in the stable when she gets startled and jerks the reigns.
And I get that she's naive and innocent and everything, but sometimes she's plain stupid. Surprised when guards are killed after failing to do their job. Then she feels so guilty about it she swears she'll never put someone in that position again. The next day when she meets her new guards she decides immediately to make their job as difficult as possible and try to sneak away and push boundaries at every opportunity. Are we supposed to believe she forgot about the dead guards yesterday? And then she mocks the new guards for taking their jobs too seriously, even though the last guards were literally killed for not doing their job well enough. Which she should understand considering she was a slave for the first 18 years of her life and was similarly punished for failing to do her job.
At one point, the MC says the name of a character before she's even heard the character's name.
At another point she is morose and crying while remembering someone "being crushed to death" and then a couple paragraphs later, he's actually totally fine. So I guess she means *nearly* crushed to death?
There are also frequent typos. Me instead of my. At least once where the wrong word was used (like accept and except).
Unless something changes incredibly in the last 43%, I am completely baffled how this book has such a high rating. If I manage to read the whole thing, I'll update this review, but I don't have high hopes.
The writing is just not good. Certain words and phrases are repeated frequently, sometimes a page apart, sometimes in the same sentence. And it's often confusing as to who is talking. The same character will be talking in two paragraphs back to back, almost like they're talking to themselves. Which is another thing- there's randomly italicized sentences or pieces of sentences. Not always to emphasize words, and only sometimes to indicate a character is thinking to themselves.
There are a lot of things that just don't make sense. MC is a slave and apparently the only one who reads (never explains how or why this is) and though they are beaten for the smallest infraction, she manages to spend hours in the library learning the history of the Fae. She doesn't know anything about the geography of the land she's lived in for 18 years, but has studied maps of the Fae lands. At one point, she talks about how she is measured every day for dresses (why? Do her measurements change that significantly from one day to the next?) and then later says she only knows how dress fittings work from her days as a slave and watching the spoiled upperclass. Hypocritical, no? Considering she's been doing the same thing for a week. And she spends all week shopping and buying things... With what money exactly? Are people just giving her things? Because they literally cannot speak to her (due to a spell) so is she just taking stuff from shops? In the span of an hour, she goes from having no idea how to ride a horse (again, strange because it took days of riding to get there) to being a natural in the saddle, to flying off the most docile horse in the stable when she gets startled and jerks the reigns.
And I get that she's naive and innocent and everything, but sometimes she's plain stupid. Surprised when guards are killed after failing to do their job. Then she feels so guilty about it she swears she'll never put someone in that position again. The next day when she meets her new guards she decides immediately to make their job as difficult as possible and try to sneak away and push boundaries at every opportunity. Are we supposed to believe she forgot about the dead guards yesterday? And then she mocks the new guards for taking their jobs too seriously, even though the last guards were literally killed for not doing their job well enough. Which she should understand considering she was a slave for the first 18 years of her life and was similarly punished for failing to do her job.
At one point, the MC says the name of a character before she's even heard the character's name.
At another point she is morose and crying while remembering someone "being crushed to death" and then a couple paragraphs later, he's actually totally fine. So I guess she means *nearly* crushed to death?
There are also frequent typos. Me instead of my. At least once where the wrong word was used (like accept and except).
Unless something changes incredibly in the last 43%, I am completely baffled how this book has such a high rating. If I manage to read the whole thing, I'll update this review, but I don't have high hopes.
September 18, 2023
EPIC FANTASY READ!!! This deserves more then 5 stars!!!!😉
L.A. McGinnis blew my mind with this new fae fantasy romance with excellent writing and amazing world building and characters that had me loving some and hating others!!! This is not your typical fae romance.While the fae are still beautiful both men and women it hides the true hideous monsters that they are! This is a fast paced hold on by the seat of your pants read with twists and turns with vicious villains and those who hide deep in the shadows where everyone has a hidden agenda.
Its full of fae court intrigue and smiling faces of those that are just waiting for one fuck up so they can bring you down. Its also a tale of two fae kings, Carex Centaria king of Caladrius and the Shadow King Serpens Centaria who are brothers who are at war with each other.Both are nightmares and evil to the core and will kill and use anyone and anything to be the last man standing! Its also a story of a innocent slave girl Anaria who has been beaten down time again by others who have tried to break her but haven't! She has strength, intelligence, beauty and is a vessel of the old gods full of pure fae powers! And someday she will be the queen of the fae. But first Anaria will have to trust four broken warriors to help her develop her new powers and protect her from those that will steal the power she houses even if that means death! Loved this reverse harem!!!! And the characters are fabulous!! Anaria is everything I love in a female lead! She's head strong and smart with a good heart but she doesn't take anyone's shit!! And that includes Tavion Montgomery the Caladrius kings commander of the high guard who has been undercover for the shadow king waiting for Anaria to be brought to court so that he could kidnap her for king Serpens and get his reward. He's A giant prick and has it in for Anaria because she caused his brothers death but when secrets come out he realizes how wrong he's been but by now Anaria hates him! I love them all but he is my favorite!! I always love the ones that fight their attraction the most and this handsome sexy beastie will fall hard and I can't wait like Anaria to see him on his knees before her! It will be hot as hell ! Anaria choose the handsome and powerful scarred slave Raziel to unlock her stolen powers by sacrificing the one thing she had of value her innocence and they have formed a bond. Then theirs the handsome but emotionally scarred Zorander who can't stand the touch of any woman. But he becomes one of Anaria's biggest allies and slowly grows to want her too. We don't know much about Tristian the archer because he left as soon as they got to the Shadow kings but now that he's back we will find out more. This is one of the best fae romances I've ever read!!! And I can't wait for book two Cruel Is My Court coming in late November!!!! This ended with a bang with the shadow king ordering his armies and their commander Zorander to Caladrius to start their invasion.But before Zorander left he received a summons from Tempeste, seems Torin the Oracle knows who they've killed and demands their presence and it sends chills down all their spines!! Until next time Luv's💕💋
L.A. McGinnis blew my mind with this new fae fantasy romance with excellent writing and amazing world building and characters that had me loving some and hating others!!! This is not your typical fae romance.While the fae are still beautiful both men and women it hides the true hideous monsters that they are! This is a fast paced hold on by the seat of your pants read with twists and turns with vicious villains and those who hide deep in the shadows where everyone has a hidden agenda.
Its full of fae court intrigue and smiling faces of those that are just waiting for one fuck up so they can bring you down. Its also a tale of two fae kings, Carex Centaria king of Caladrius and the Shadow King Serpens Centaria who are brothers who are at war with each other.Both are nightmares and evil to the core and will kill and use anyone and anything to be the last man standing! Its also a story of a innocent slave girl Anaria who has been beaten down time again by others who have tried to break her but haven't! She has strength, intelligence, beauty and is a vessel of the old gods full of pure fae powers! And someday she will be the queen of the fae. But first Anaria will have to trust four broken warriors to help her develop her new powers and protect her from those that will steal the power she houses even if that means death! Loved this reverse harem!!!! And the characters are fabulous!! Anaria is everything I love in a female lead! She's head strong and smart with a good heart but she doesn't take anyone's shit!! And that includes Tavion Montgomery the Caladrius kings commander of the high guard who has been undercover for the shadow king waiting for Anaria to be brought to court so that he could kidnap her for king Serpens and get his reward. He's A giant prick and has it in for Anaria because she caused his brothers death but when secrets come out he realizes how wrong he's been but by now Anaria hates him! I love them all but he is my favorite!! I always love the ones that fight their attraction the most and this handsome sexy beastie will fall hard and I can't wait like Anaria to see him on his knees before her! It will be hot as hell ! Anaria choose the handsome and powerful scarred slave Raziel to unlock her stolen powers by sacrificing the one thing she had of value her innocence and they have formed a bond. Then theirs the handsome but emotionally scarred Zorander who can't stand the touch of any woman. But he becomes one of Anaria's biggest allies and slowly grows to want her too. We don't know much about Tristian the archer because he left as soon as they got to the Shadow kings but now that he's back we will find out more. This is one of the best fae romances I've ever read!!! And I can't wait for book two Cruel Is My Court coming in late November!!!! This ended with a bang with the shadow king ordering his armies and their commander Zorander to Caladrius to start their invasion.But before Zorander left he received a summons from Tempeste, seems Torin the Oracle knows who they've killed and demands their presence and it sends chills down all their spines!! Until next time Luv's💕💋
October 20, 2023
• 3.5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
• Spicy 🌶️ 🌶️🌶️ /5
• TW: very detailed triggering attempted noncon scene & SA throughout book.
*I didn’t find any mention of TW’s anywhere in the book or synopsis & it is definitely needed. “Dark” shouldn’t be a blanket term for these types of TW - my opinion.
• Cliffhanger ending.
What I Loved
• Great storyline and a new take on fae fantasy that I haven’t seen before, personally. The spicy scenes are quite spicy, but there is a good balance between plot and spice. The spice accompanies the plot, instead of taking over like so many romance books do. Anaria, the MC, is outspoken and strong despite her situation. She isn’t so much a “damsel in distress” that is popular in fantasy lately. She’s also not immature for her age or annoyingly oblivious. I really enjoyed 3/4 of the MMC’s and they each qualify as book boyfriends (one fades into the background for most of the book).
What I Didn’t Like
• The lack of trigger warnings. Not even a hint in the synopsis.
• It was hard to follow dialogue at times because author starts a new paragraph for a new sentence spoken by the same character, randomly. You’d expect another character to be talking when there is a break in a paragraph, so you have to go back to the previous sentence to see who is talking. Also a character will start a sentence, without defining who is speaking, but following the sentence is a description of another characters expression, reaction, ect. and it seems as though the second character was the one speaking…but it was the first… It’s confusing to even explain it. 🥴
Overall - I did enjoy the book and plan to continue reading the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
• Spicy 🌶️ 🌶️🌶️ /5
• TW: very detailed triggering attempted noncon scene & SA throughout book.
*I didn’t find any mention of TW’s anywhere in the book or synopsis & it is definitely needed. “Dark” shouldn’t be a blanket term for these types of TW - my opinion.
• Cliffhanger ending.
What I Loved
• Great storyline and a new take on fae fantasy that I haven’t seen before, personally. The spicy scenes are quite spicy, but there is a good balance between plot and spice. The spice accompanies the plot, instead of taking over like so many romance books do. Anaria, the MC, is outspoken and strong despite her situation. She isn’t so much a “damsel in distress” that is popular in fantasy lately. She’s also not immature for her age or annoyingly oblivious. I really enjoyed 3/4 of the MMC’s and they each qualify as book boyfriends (one fades into the background for most of the book).
What I Didn’t Like
• The lack of trigger warnings. Not even a hint in the synopsis.
• It was hard to follow dialogue at times because author starts a new paragraph for a new sentence spoken by the same character, randomly. You’d expect another character to be talking when there is a break in a paragraph, so you have to go back to the previous sentence to see who is talking. Also a character will start a sentence, without defining who is speaking, but following the sentence is a description of another characters expression, reaction, ect. and it seems as though the second character was the one speaking…but it was the first… It’s confusing to even explain it. 🥴
Overall - I did enjoy the book and plan to continue reading the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 22, 2024
hmmm
There was a lot I really disliked in this book. The FMC was just plain stupid. Every decision she made was just bad. There were even times the author didn’t even capitalize on her bad decisions. 1) you get a secret note. You read it and then you destroy it. Everyone in the whole wide world except for FMC knows you DESTROY IT! 2) your secrets don’t get “aired” in public!!! You don’t talk about in front of anybody and just plain hope that person is going to keep it or hey the author just glosses right over that. Hmmmmm, yea nope. The list goes on and on. Honestly, the FMC just needed to be killed so we could move on.
There was a lot I really disliked in this book. The FMC was just plain stupid. Every decision she made was just bad. There were even times the author didn’t even capitalize on her bad decisions. 1) you get a secret note. You read it and then you destroy it. Everyone in the whole wide world except for FMC knows you DESTROY IT! 2) your secrets don’t get “aired” in public!!! You don’t talk about in front of anybody and just plain hope that person is going to keep it or hey the author just glosses right over that. Hmmmmm, yea nope. The list goes on and on. Honestly, the FMC just needed to be killed so we could move on.
August 26, 2023
I already thought L.A. McGinnis was one of the best writters in this genre and then she outdone herself with Savage is my kingdom!
A steamy romance with elements of darkness, political intrigue,secrets,betrayal, morally grey characters, wicked Fae,monsters and scorching hot scenes.This intriguing and all-consuming tale is absolutely soul-gripping and will have you hooked from the very first word to the perfect end. I can't wait to read her next book!
A steamy romance with elements of darkness, political intrigue,secrets,betrayal, morally grey characters, wicked Fae,monsters and scorching hot scenes.This intriguing and all-consuming tale is absolutely soul-gripping and will have you hooked from the very first word to the perfect end. I can't wait to read her next book!
May 14, 2024
Wow. So much happened in this book and I am along for the ride.
August 29, 2023
Loved it
Savage is my Kingdom absolutely hit the spot for my book craving!
It's fast-paced, fab characters and world building and I got duped! I thought i knew who the morally grey villain is, nope not even close. I've already preordered book 2 in the series!
Savage is my Kingdom absolutely hit the spot for my book craving!
It's fast-paced, fab characters and world building and I got duped! I thought i knew who the morally grey villain is, nope not even close. I've already preordered book 2 in the series!
January 18, 2024
This is WONDERFULLY done!! 🫶🏼
I love our Little Thief and her band of misfits.
The world building was lovely and not overwhelming. The story flows nicely and keeps you entertained all the way through. The slow burn is delicious and the spice and tension is 🔥
I can’t wait to keep reading this series!!
I love our Little Thief and her band of misfits.
The world building was lovely and not overwhelming. The story flows nicely and keeps you entertained all the way through. The slow burn is delicious and the spice and tension is 🔥
I can’t wait to keep reading this series!!
August 28, 2023
Oooh Yeah!
I’m never disappointed when it comes to this author! In this first book of a new series, our heroine, Anaria, is a slave for the Descendants, a group of entitled, snobby Fae who ignore her when they aren’t tormenting her. But reality is a whole different world as she soon finds out. And let’s not forget the four hot guys that protect her even if they don’t particularly like her and visa versa. But don’t worry, they’ll change their minds — eventually. Maybe.
In true McGinnis fashion, this fantasy, reverse harem, epic tale of Fae, warring kings, and an unlikely keeper of awesome magic starts off fast and moves to warp speed quickly. Who are the good guys, who are the bad guys, and why oh why does everyone keep calling her little thief? I loved/hated, the characters, depending on who you were reading about and even changed my mind on one or two. What an adrenaline rush. The next book can’t come out soon enough!
I’m never disappointed when it comes to this author! In this first book of a new series, our heroine, Anaria, is a slave for the Descendants, a group of entitled, snobby Fae who ignore her when they aren’t tormenting her. But reality is a whole different world as she soon finds out. And let’s not forget the four hot guys that protect her even if they don’t particularly like her and visa versa. But don’t worry, they’ll change their minds — eventually. Maybe.
In true McGinnis fashion, this fantasy, reverse harem, epic tale of Fae, warring kings, and an unlikely keeper of awesome magic starts off fast and moves to warp speed quickly. Who are the good guys, who are the bad guys, and why oh why does everyone keep calling her little thief? I loved/hated, the characters, depending on who you were reading about and even changed my mind on one or two. What an adrenaline rush. The next book can’t come out soon enough!
March 8, 2025
4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
3🌶🌶🌶
I DEVOURED this. "Savage is My Kingdom" is a dark and epic journey involving two viscous Fae Kings.
Tropes
✅️Why Choose
✅️Hidden Powers
✅️Hidden Identity
✅️Prophecy
✅️Enemies-to-Lovers
✅️Hate-to-Love
✅️Morally Gray MMC's
✅️Forbidden Love
✅️Power Dynamic
✅️Forced Proximity
✅️Aged Gap
✅️Virgin FMC
✅️Arrainged Marriage
Triggers
☑️Torture
☑️Kidnapping
☑️Slavery
☑️Death
☑️War Violence
I LOVED this story. I would have bumped my rating up to 4.5⭐️ but there are a decent amount of grammatical errors that hindered me. A couple more revisions, and this would be 💯.
These Fae are VISCOUS. There are no cute and cuddly cinnamon roll characters here. Everyone is battle hardened with their own agendas...some are even flesh eaters.
The ramifications of the prophecy that is central to the stroy is EPIC. Anaria and her merry band of misfits are either going to make or break the realm, and I can not wait to find out...plus the why choose is subtly delicious. 🥵❤️🔥
Can't wait to start "Cruel Is My Court". I want to see some serious groveling from Tavion and epic female rage from Anaria.❤️🔥⚔️
3🌶🌶🌶
I DEVOURED this. "Savage is My Kingdom" is a dark and epic journey involving two viscous Fae Kings.
Tropes
✅️Why Choose
✅️Hidden Powers
✅️Hidden Identity
✅️Prophecy
✅️Enemies-to-Lovers
✅️Hate-to-Love
✅️Morally Gray MMC's
✅️Forbidden Love
✅️Power Dynamic
✅️Forced Proximity
✅️Aged Gap
✅️Virgin FMC
✅️Arrainged Marriage
Triggers
☑️Torture
☑️Kidnapping
☑️Slavery
☑️Death
☑️War Violence
I LOVED this story. I would have bumped my rating up to 4.5⭐️ but there are a decent amount of grammatical errors that hindered me. A couple more revisions, and this would be 💯.
These Fae are VISCOUS. There are no cute and cuddly cinnamon roll characters here. Everyone is battle hardened with their own agendas...some are even flesh eaters.
The ramifications of the prophecy that is central to the stroy is EPIC. Anaria and her merry band of misfits are either going to make or break the realm, and I can not wait to find out...plus the why choose is subtly delicious. 🥵❤️🔥
Can't wait to start "Cruel Is My Court". I want to see some serious groveling from Tavion and epic female rage from Anaria.❤️🔥⚔️
August 24, 2023
Whoa, there is so much going on in this book! This does end on a cliffhanger, but it is at a good point. This read is a rollercoaster of things happening. The book starts kind of slow, but once it gets going, it grips you and holds until the end. You do get a lot of information thrown at you, but it all starts making sense as the book goes. This book is full of action, intrigue, mystery, a little bit of steam, and amazing characters. I love Anaria and how far she has come already. She is such a strong person for everything that has happened. I love her and the one she is with at the moment, I can't give it away with too much info. But I also can't wait to see if anything happens with the others. This book does have moments that aren't for the faint of heart. Another amazing story from L.A McGinnis, I am never disappointed, I can't wait for the next book!!
I received an ARC of this book. All of the opinions and thoughts are my own. I will be purchasing a copy for my library.
I received an ARC of this book. All of the opinions and thoughts are my own. I will be purchasing a copy for my library.
August 28, 2023
Wow! Just brilliant!
What an amazing start to a new series.
This novel grabbed me from the very start with the way that the author dives right in to the action, spectacularly detailing and describing pivotal scenes (no matter how gruesome) in the storyline.
My heart in my mouth at times, I anxiously kept reading needing to know and devour more of this story.
With my interest well and truly captured L.A. McGinnis has built a new world with the most incredible characters that I’m looking forward to seeing evolve.
We are introduced to Anaria and her only friend Ember, slaves of Varitus. Anaria being forced to leave her home against her will takes Ember along and their adventures begin.
This story has many secrets and lies, power plays, violence, ruthless kings, gorgeous males coming to the rescue, steamy scenes, love and hate.
With a “for now” ending that leads you into the next book.
If you love fast paced, action packed stories with a fierce female lead along with men that are fated to protect her, then this is definitely the book for you.
You will not regret your choice.
I received this book from the author for my honest review and also purchased the book.
What an amazing start to a new series.
This novel grabbed me from the very start with the way that the author dives right in to the action, spectacularly detailing and describing pivotal scenes (no matter how gruesome) in the storyline.
My heart in my mouth at times, I anxiously kept reading needing to know and devour more of this story.
With my interest well and truly captured L.A. McGinnis has built a new world with the most incredible characters that I’m looking forward to seeing evolve.
We are introduced to Anaria and her only friend Ember, slaves of Varitus. Anaria being forced to leave her home against her will takes Ember along and their adventures begin.
This story has many secrets and lies, power plays, violence, ruthless kings, gorgeous males coming to the rescue, steamy scenes, love and hate.
With a “for now” ending that leads you into the next book.
If you love fast paced, action packed stories with a fierce female lead along with men that are fated to protect her, then this is definitely the book for you.
You will not regret your choice.
I received this book from the author for my honest review and also purchased the book.
September 21, 2023
I got an eARC of this from Hidden Gems and am sharing my honest thoughts on it.
I really enjoyed this story, from its characters to its plotline. This is one of the first books I’ve read with this type of romance and, while I’m still deciding if that theme is for me, I liked how it developed throughout this book. The author didn’t fall into the trap of instant love, and I liked that the characters didn’t immediately drop their conflict, in favor of a romantic relationship.
I do feel that this book could’ve gone at least one more round of editing. Many spots were redundant or had simple misspellings or the incorrect tense of a word. The plot didn’t seem to always flow smoothly either, though it may have felt that way to me due to the lingering errors I was finding. And try as I might, it still took me longer than expected to read this book.
All in all though, the characters and plot itself outweigh the cons for me, and I’m looking forward to reading the sequel when I can get my hands on it!
I really enjoyed this story, from its characters to its plotline. This is one of the first books I’ve read with this type of romance and, while I’m still deciding if that theme is for me, I liked how it developed throughout this book. The author didn’t fall into the trap of instant love, and I liked that the characters didn’t immediately drop their conflict, in favor of a romantic relationship.
I do feel that this book could’ve gone at least one more round of editing. Many spots were redundant or had simple misspellings or the incorrect tense of a word. The plot didn’t seem to always flow smoothly either, though it may have felt that way to me due to the lingering errors I was finding. And try as I might, it still took me longer than expected to read this book.
All in all though, the characters and plot itself outweigh the cons for me, and I’m looking forward to reading the sequel when I can get my hands on it!
September 19, 2023
Huge thank you to hiddengembooks for this arc! The following review has been left voluntarily.
"They called me a thief? I would take everything from them. I would take their thrones and their power and their riches. And when I was finished I would burn this place to the ground."
This was an unexpected surprise! Savage is My Kingdom is an action packed and fast paced novel that will leave you on the edge of your seat with every page you turn. This was my first book by L.A. McGinnis but I will definitely be keeping an eye out for future works of hers.
"Will you rise up and rule, or be forgotten like the millions who came before you?”
The world is certainly interesting and the characters even more so. I can't wait to see where Anaria's story carries her alongside her fearsome warriors.
"They called me a thief? I would take everything from them. I would take their thrones and their power and their riches. And when I was finished I would burn this place to the ground."
This was an unexpected surprise! Savage is My Kingdom is an action packed and fast paced novel that will leave you on the edge of your seat with every page you turn. This was my first book by L.A. McGinnis but I will definitely be keeping an eye out for future works of hers.
"Will you rise up and rule, or be forgotten like the millions who came before you?”
The world is certainly interesting and the characters even more so. I can't wait to see where Anaria's story carries her alongside her fearsome warriors.
February 23, 2024
This was actually very good, very well written! Loved Anaria and felt for her during all she had to go through. Does leave you guessing at the end of the book so now starting book 2!
October 6, 2023
I have read many books from L.A McGinnis which I have loved and enjoyed but this one hit it out of the ballpark. I have been exploring the darker side of fantasy and romance and this book combines the two perfectly.
This is a very dark story so please check out the trigger warnings for this book.
The opening of the story hooked me in immediately and I did not want to put this book down at all. Every spare moment I had I was reading this book.
I loved all of the characters in this story especially our main character, she is very stubborn and also a big badass who stands up for what she believes in which I loved.
We also get perspectives from three out of the four men our main character meets in this story and I love each and every one of them in different ways.
Every character are so fleshed out and feel like real people and I can't wait to read more about all of them in book two.
The world is so intriguing and again really fleshed out I never felt myself confused about what was happening or where we were in the story which I can struggle with from time to time in certain books.
The atmosphere throughout this story is dark and had an ominous feel as we are leading up to some serious plot points.
I absolutely adored this story and can't wait to pick up book two which is coming soon!!
This is a very dark story so please check out the trigger warnings for this book.
The opening of the story hooked me in immediately and I did not want to put this book down at all. Every spare moment I had I was reading this book.
I loved all of the characters in this story especially our main character, she is very stubborn and also a big badass who stands up for what she believes in which I loved.
We also get perspectives from three out of the four men our main character meets in this story and I love each and every one of them in different ways.
Every character are so fleshed out and feel like real people and I can't wait to read more about all of them in book two.
The world is so intriguing and again really fleshed out I never felt myself confused about what was happening or where we were in the story which I can struggle with from time to time in certain books.
The atmosphere throughout this story is dark and had an ominous feel as we are leading up to some serious plot points.
I absolutely adored this story and can't wait to pick up book two which is coming soon!!
October 7, 2023
I can’t begin to explain how much I love this story, it’s romance with spice, a hint of dark, intrigue, mystery, betrayal, fae and morally grey characters,it’s such an addictive book. I can't wait to read the next and it deserves more stars
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 4, 2024
This book was so slow that it felt like it took forever and just kept going and going and going. The FMC was so fucking stupid and just really unlikable. I actually started rolling my eyes around the 50% mark whenever we would get we her pov. Not that her male counterparts were any different or interesting because they all had the personality of generic male in a RH story. Honestly should’ve probably dnf this right when it started giving me that whole purity culture spiel. Two stars because it’s not the worst thing written it’s just absolutely not for me.
January 4, 2024
Wasted my time…
This was such a long ass book and it could have been cut maybe a hundred pages short. The FMC is… how’d she go from being a slave to acting like a queen so fast??? And the guys? Like… I maybe liked Raz and Zor but the other two? Pft.
This was such a long ass book and it could have been cut maybe a hundred pages short. The FMC is… how’d she go from being a slave to acting like a queen so fast??? And the guys? Like… I maybe liked Raz and Zor but the other two? Pft.
December 15, 2023
*I sought an ARC copy of this story from the author, and I'm leaving this honest review willingly.
This story had so much going on. So many moving parts, don't forget about this, and pay attention to this bit here, oh and don't forget there is still this thing going on over here in the corner.
I absolutely fell in love. With the hardships Anaria went through, the finding of ones self, and accepting the darker side of yourself to save the light.
I enjoyed the unraveling of secrets at the perfect time, and the build up right up till the very end.
The world McGinnis created for this showdown of a fae magic is both dark and rich, lush and mysterious.
If you've every watched a movie where the fmc is scared of everything and wished she would just smile back at the evil and show it whose boss, add this one to your tbr!
This story had so much going on. So many moving parts, don't forget about this, and pay attention to this bit here, oh and don't forget there is still this thing going on over here in the corner.
I absolutely fell in love. With the hardships Anaria went through, the finding of ones self, and accepting the darker side of yourself to save the light.
I enjoyed the unraveling of secrets at the perfect time, and the build up right up till the very end.
The world McGinnis created for this showdown of a fae magic is both dark and rich, lush and mysterious.
If you've every watched a movie where the fmc is scared of everything and wished she would just smile back at the evil and show it whose boss, add this one to your tbr!
May 16, 2024
Wow what a story and loved every minute of it as hard to put down and need to read next saga straight away!
Anaria is a strong, fierce, dynamic and kick ass kind of woman with a true lion's heart and she is the flame that attracts all the other characters to her in amazing and magical ways. This fantasy realm she is drawn into unaware of what awaits her is savage in all sense of the word as the title hints at. However, the joy of this book is there are fine lines and interesting characters all seeking to survive in a cruel world and the elements merge often between two worlds of light and dark.
I truly enjoyed discovering the world and the inner strength to survive as it is unveiled to Anaria as the story unfolds along with how the four strong male warriors fit into the bigger picture with lots being revealed as the story progresses. Great twist, turns and magical mysteries with second book hopefully answering some more hidden secrets.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Anaria is a strong, fierce, dynamic and kick ass kind of woman with a true lion's heart and she is the flame that attracts all the other characters to her in amazing and magical ways. This fantasy realm she is drawn into unaware of what awaits her is savage in all sense of the word as the title hints at. However, the joy of this book is there are fine lines and interesting characters all seeking to survive in a cruel world and the elements merge often between two worlds of light and dark.
I truly enjoyed discovering the world and the inner strength to survive as it is unveiled to Anaria as the story unfolds along with how the four strong male warriors fit into the bigger picture with lots being revealed as the story progresses. Great twist, turns and magical mysteries with second book hopefully answering some more hidden secrets.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 18, 2024
Interesting
I really enjoyed this story. However, it was difficult to tell which character was speaking at times, and there were a few grammatical errors, which were distracting. If not for the above, I would have given this 5 stars. That said, I definitely plan to read the next book.
I received a review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. All opinions are my own.
I really enjoyed this story. However, it was difficult to tell which character was speaking at times, and there were a few grammatical errors, which were distracting. If not for the above, I would have given this 5 stars. That said, I definitely plan to read the next book.
I received a review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. All opinions are my own.
April 4, 2025
Yet another 18 year old girl who has to save the world. Needs a good edit as there’s many typos. But overall an interesting plot and confusing romance. I’m curious to see where this all goes.
Anaria is a slave to the Descendants- kin of the high fae. A wall separates their realms and when Anaria is cornered by 3 males, Solok manages to cross the boundary and come to her rescue. He whisks her away and promises her riches and to be reunited with her real father. The Fae King of Tempeste.
They cross the border between the realms and Anaria’s appearance changes. She’s high fae and while inside the ward, touched the power within her and killed all their guards. On their journey, Anaria can sense the inherently evilness of Solok and his sister. A band of soldiers intercept them, sent by the Shadow King to take her home. Solok manipulates the situation so she kills them with her magic.
Once at the palace in Tempeste, the Fae King doesn’t seem too interested in having her home but intent on keeping her protected. The royal seer tries to warn Anaria of grander schemes happening - the Fae King’s magic abandoned him when he had a child with a pure blooded fae female. They hid the child away until she could come into that power on her 18th birthday. That’s when the Fae King is going to perform a ritual to get his powers back. But greater forces are at work and the ritual fails.
Anaria escapes and finds refuge with the Shadow King who also claims to be her father. Only his claim is a tactic for war and not truth. He wants to see his brother rot without his magic then claim it and his lands for himself.
Her band of escorts have their own agenda as their leader was given a prophecy in which both kings are destroyed and a new queen will take the throne and rule justly and align with the old ways of the fae.
Anaria decides to take matters into her own hands and claim the magic for herself by giving up that which she cherishes most - her virginity. She chooses Raziel, a slave of the shadow king and the only one who has no ulterior motive for his need to protect her. They form a special connection once Raz forgives her for the trickery.
Learning more about her magic and also needing self defense skills, she begins trainings with Zorander. Tavion eventually gets involved with their training and scheming. When Anaria falls off her horse, her magic takes over and transports her to the Oracle back in Tempeste. The oracle tells her that everything that has happened has been her plan all along. From the king siring a pure blooded fae child, to Anaria being placed as a slave with the Descendants, the ritual failing and the Fae King losing his powers. She wants to wield Anaria as a weapon of chaos and destruction to tear down the world of the fae and rebuild fresh. Uncorrupted.
Solok eventually finds his way through the wards and into the Shadow realm. He overheard them talking about the Oracles plan and intends to take Anaria back to the Fae King so he can still reclaim the power. Then tell him of the Oracles scheming. The band of males try to protect Anaria but they’re no match to Solok’s evil. Even Tavion shifts into his wolf form, and Solok breaks his arm. Anaria’s only option is to use her magic. With Raziel almost dead, Zorander and Tavion down, she unleashes herself and allows the magic to take control. It turns Solok into a monster to match the inside and Tristian shows up just in time to shoot his arrow right through Solok’s eye. Raziel needs healing and the healer isn’t strong enough. But Anaria is.
The Shadow King is making moves on his brother. Zor was sent to lead the foot soldiers. Tavion announces his and Anaria’s departure and plans to head to his home for a family reunion. When she reaches Raz’s hut to find Tristian, they reveal that the Oracle has called a meeting. She knows Solok is dead and that Anaria used her magic and is one step closer to becoming the weapon the Oracle wants. They have 4 days to reach Tempeste without the Shadow King finding out.
Anaria is a slave to the Descendants- kin of the high fae. A wall separates their realms and when Anaria is cornered by 3 males, Solok manages to cross the boundary and come to her rescue. He whisks her away and promises her riches and to be reunited with her real father. The Fae King of Tempeste.
They cross the border between the realms and Anaria’s appearance changes. She’s high fae and while inside the ward, touched the power within her and killed all their guards. On their journey, Anaria can sense the inherently evilness of Solok and his sister. A band of soldiers intercept them, sent by the Shadow King to take her home. Solok manipulates the situation so she kills them with her magic.
Once at the palace in Tempeste, the Fae King doesn’t seem too interested in having her home but intent on keeping her protected. The royal seer tries to warn Anaria of grander schemes happening - the Fae King’s magic abandoned him when he had a child with a pure blooded fae female. They hid the child away until she could come into that power on her 18th birthday. That’s when the Fae King is going to perform a ritual to get his powers back. But greater forces are at work and the ritual fails.
Anaria escapes and finds refuge with the Shadow King who also claims to be her father. Only his claim is a tactic for war and not truth. He wants to see his brother rot without his magic then claim it and his lands for himself.
Her band of escorts have their own agenda as their leader was given a prophecy in which both kings are destroyed and a new queen will take the throne and rule justly and align with the old ways of the fae.
Anaria decides to take matters into her own hands and claim the magic for herself by giving up that which she cherishes most - her virginity. She chooses Raziel, a slave of the shadow king and the only one who has no ulterior motive for his need to protect her. They form a special connection once Raz forgives her for the trickery.
Learning more about her magic and also needing self defense skills, she begins trainings with Zorander. Tavion eventually gets involved with their training and scheming. When Anaria falls off her horse, her magic takes over and transports her to the Oracle back in Tempeste. The oracle tells her that everything that has happened has been her plan all along. From the king siring a pure blooded fae child, to Anaria being placed as a slave with the Descendants, the ritual failing and the Fae King losing his powers. She wants to wield Anaria as a weapon of chaos and destruction to tear down the world of the fae and rebuild fresh. Uncorrupted.
Solok eventually finds his way through the wards and into the Shadow realm. He overheard them talking about the Oracles plan and intends to take Anaria back to the Fae King so he can still reclaim the power. Then tell him of the Oracles scheming. The band of males try to protect Anaria but they’re no match to Solok’s evil. Even Tavion shifts into his wolf form, and Solok breaks his arm. Anaria’s only option is to use her magic. With Raziel almost dead, Zorander and Tavion down, she unleashes herself and allows the magic to take control. It turns Solok into a monster to match the inside and Tristian shows up just in time to shoot his arrow right through Solok’s eye. Raziel needs healing and the healer isn’t strong enough. But Anaria is.
The Shadow King is making moves on his brother. Zor was sent to lead the foot soldiers. Tavion announces his and Anaria’s departure and plans to head to his home for a family reunion. When she reaches Raz’s hut to find Tristian, they reveal that the Oracle has called a meeting. She knows Solok is dead and that Anaria used her magic and is one step closer to becoming the weapon the Oracle wants. They have 4 days to reach Tempeste without the Shadow King finding out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 16, 2023
An epic, fast paced fae fantasy book, where the faeries are as vicious, backstabbing and cruel, as much as they are beautiful. And where the heroine learns to save herself.
Carex Centaria king of Caladrius and the Shadow King Serpens Centaria have been at War with each other, for a millenia. Their vicious fight for power and magic has lasted for so long, that they forgot that the power they crave, was stolen.. Both are evil to and will kill and use anyone/everyone and in their quest to overpower each other!
This is the story of an innocent slave girl called Anaria who has been beaten down every day of her life, but has not lost her spirit. Her strength, hope and intelligence, keep her from giving up, on the worst of circumstances, when she is kidnapped and whisked away to Caladrius, by Solok, the King's right hand man/fae, known as the King's Axe. She manages to take her friend Ember, who was also a slave, who grew up with her in Varitus Omnius.
After arriving in Tempeste, the capital of Caladrius, Anaria discovers that she was kept a slave, mistreated and humiliated, by her Father and his people. Apparently she stole the King's power when she was born, and will have to return it on a ritual, where she will die.
Anaria manages to survive the ritual and runs away, stumbling on a conspiracy to save her, she's whisked away to Solarys Anaria will have to trust four warriors who hate her guts, because when she came into her power, she inadvertedly killed someone they cared about.
The characters are diverse and complex, I loved who Anaria falls for!! Anaria is head strong and smart with a good heart but she doesn't take anyone's shit! Tavion Montgomery the Caladrius kings commander of the high guard who has been undercover for the Shadow King waiting for Anaria to be brought to court so that he could kidnap her for king Serpens and get his reward is a giant prick and has it in for Anaria because she caused his brothers death but when secrets come out he realizes how wrong he's been but by now Anaria hates him! ..
Once they reach Solarys, Anaria decides she won't be a pawn anymore, and uses her virginity blood to unlock her stolen powers, by sacrificing the one thing she had of value (her innocence) and frms a bond with Raziel.
Another of the males that helps get her to Solarys is Zorander, who can't stand the touch of any woman. But he becomes one of Anaria's biggest allies and slowly grows to like her. We don't know much about Tristian the archer, because he left as soon as they got to the Shadow kings castle but I'm sure their part of the story will develop in book two Cruel Is My Court.
Anaria ends up claiming and keeping the magic within her, and while using it to kill Solok, these four males are marked by her magic, thus becoming bonded to her.
This book ended with the shadow king ordering his armies and their general Zorander to Caladrius to start their invasion.But before Zorander left he received a summons from Tempeste, seems Torin the Oracle, knows who they've killed and demands their presence and it sends chills down all their spines!!
This is a well written, gripping, start of the series, and I can't wait to read book 2!
Carex Centaria king of Caladrius and the Shadow King Serpens Centaria have been at War with each other, for a millenia. Their vicious fight for power and magic has lasted for so long, that they forgot that the power they crave, was stolen.. Both are evil to and will kill and use anyone/everyone and in their quest to overpower each other!
This is the story of an innocent slave girl called Anaria who has been beaten down every day of her life, but has not lost her spirit. Her strength, hope and intelligence, keep her from giving up, on the worst of circumstances, when she is kidnapped and whisked away to Caladrius, by Solok, the King's right hand man/fae, known as the King's Axe. She manages to take her friend Ember, who was also a slave, who grew up with her in Varitus Omnius.
After arriving in Tempeste, the capital of Caladrius, Anaria discovers that she was kept a slave, mistreated and humiliated, by her Father and his people. Apparently she stole the King's power when she was born, and will have to return it on a ritual, where she will die.
Anaria manages to survive the ritual and runs away, stumbling on a conspiracy to save her, she's whisked away to Solarys Anaria will have to trust four warriors who hate her guts, because when she came into her power, she inadvertedly killed someone they cared about.
The characters are diverse and complex, I loved who Anaria falls for!! Anaria is head strong and smart with a good heart but she doesn't take anyone's shit! Tavion Montgomery the Caladrius kings commander of the high guard who has been undercover for the Shadow King waiting for Anaria to be brought to court so that he could kidnap her for king Serpens and get his reward is a giant prick and has it in for Anaria because she caused his brothers death but when secrets come out he realizes how wrong he's been but by now Anaria hates him! ..
Once they reach Solarys, Anaria decides she won't be a pawn anymore, and uses her virginity blood to unlock her stolen powers, by sacrificing the one thing she had of value (her innocence) and frms a bond with Raziel.
Another of the males that helps get her to Solarys is Zorander, who can't stand the touch of any woman. But he becomes one of Anaria's biggest allies and slowly grows to like her. We don't know much about Tristian the archer, because he left as soon as they got to the Shadow kings castle but I'm sure their part of the story will develop in book two Cruel Is My Court.
Anaria ends up claiming and keeping the magic within her, and while using it to kill Solok, these four males are marked by her magic, thus becoming bonded to her.
This book ended with the shadow king ordering his armies and their general Zorander to Caladrius to start their invasion.But before Zorander left he received a summons from Tempeste, seems Torin the Oracle, knows who they've killed and demands their presence and it sends chills down all their spines!!
This is a well written, gripping, start of the series, and I can't wait to read book 2!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 8, 2026
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
I am here to tell you that L.A. McGinnis is an author that does NOT ever disappoint and is 100% an auto-buy author for me because whatever she writes, I want to read it. I went into this one blind and I was BAMBOOZLED more than once because I could trust literally no one, things I thought I knew? Thrown out the window. Plot twists? So much I did NOT see coming and my emotions were all over the place as I tried to figure out how things were going to play out…the screams I scrumpt were plentiful 😂
👑Steamy Dark RH Romantasy
💀Enemies to Lovers
🖤Age Gap & Forbidden Love
👑Lost Heir & Reluctant Heroes
💀Wicked Fae & Monsters
🖤Found Family
👑Political Conflict & Hidden Prophecies
💀A Plot That Is PLOTTING
Two ruthless kings are at war and a princess with a terrible power stands between them. Four broken warriors are sworn to protect her…but at what cost?
When Anaria is dragged “home” by the Fae King’s vicious enforcer, her life as a slave turns into something she never expected: she’s a pawn in an ancient feud between two brothers with immense power and the bearer of a stolen magic that could either destroy the kingdoms or forge a new one.
What no one knows? Anaria can make this power her own by sacrificing her most prized possession: her innocence.
So while ruthless males go to war over this terrible magic she never asked for, she’s determined to claim the power, take the throne and become queen. And on the way? The warriors sworn to protect her become more than just her protectors…but is the price of their dark bond one that will leave their wicked world intact?
Y’ALL! What am I going to do with myself? Don’t worry, I’ve already started book 2, BUT this book?! Had me in a STRONG AF hand necklace the entire time I was reading. Anaria is an FMC who immediately endeared herself to me – despite her terrible start in life, her defiant personality and sass towards those trying to keep her their pawn and at their mercy shines through. Am I worried for her? You betcha. I know those kings don’t deserve the power she holds and I want her to embrace her rage and make that power submissive to her and her alone…but how that will happen remains to be seen.
The hot morally grey MMCs in her life who are bound to protect her? Let’s just say I can get behind all of Anaria’s decisions so far *especially when it “comes” to Raz, wink wink* 🤭 Raziel, Tavion, Zorander & Tristan are a vibe (though some of these men have some explaining and groveling to do)...
If you are a fan of a fierce FMC with plans to take down every villain she encounters with broody hot males at her side, enemies to lovers, political intrigue with twists you can’t predict, and underlying magic woven into all things romantasy, start this series! I cannot recommend this book enough!
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
I am here to tell you that L.A. McGinnis is an author that does NOT ever disappoint and is 100% an auto-buy author for me because whatever she writes, I want to read it. I went into this one blind and I was BAMBOOZLED more than once because I could trust literally no one, things I thought I knew? Thrown out the window. Plot twists? So much I did NOT see coming and my emotions were all over the place as I tried to figure out how things were going to play out…the screams I scrumpt were plentiful 😂
👑Steamy Dark RH Romantasy
💀Enemies to Lovers
🖤Age Gap & Forbidden Love
👑Lost Heir & Reluctant Heroes
💀Wicked Fae & Monsters
🖤Found Family
👑Political Conflict & Hidden Prophecies
💀A Plot That Is PLOTTING
Two ruthless kings are at war and a princess with a terrible power stands between them. Four broken warriors are sworn to protect her…but at what cost?
When Anaria is dragged “home” by the Fae King’s vicious enforcer, her life as a slave turns into something she never expected: she’s a pawn in an ancient feud between two brothers with immense power and the bearer of a stolen magic that could either destroy the kingdoms or forge a new one.
What no one knows? Anaria can make this power her own by sacrificing her most prized possession: her innocence.
So while ruthless males go to war over this terrible magic she never asked for, she’s determined to claim the power, take the throne and become queen. And on the way? The warriors sworn to protect her become more than just her protectors…but is the price of their dark bond one that will leave their wicked world intact?
Y’ALL! What am I going to do with myself? Don’t worry, I’ve already started book 2, BUT this book?! Had me in a STRONG AF hand necklace the entire time I was reading. Anaria is an FMC who immediately endeared herself to me – despite her terrible start in life, her defiant personality and sass towards those trying to keep her their pawn and at their mercy shines through. Am I worried for her? You betcha. I know those kings don’t deserve the power she holds and I want her to embrace her rage and make that power submissive to her and her alone…but how that will happen remains to be seen.
The hot morally grey MMCs in her life who are bound to protect her? Let’s just say I can get behind all of Anaria’s decisions so far *especially when it “comes” to Raz, wink wink* 🤭 Raziel, Tavion, Zorander & Tristan are a vibe (though some of these men have some explaining and groveling to do)...
If you are a fan of a fierce FMC with plans to take down every villain she encounters with broody hot males at her side, enemies to lovers, political intrigue with twists you can’t predict, and underlying magic woven into all things romantasy, start this series! I cannot recommend this book enough!
April 27, 2024
Savage Is My Kingdom
Wicked Realms: Book 1
Author: L.A. McGinnis
Genre: Dark Fantasy/ Fantasy, Reverse Harem, Fae, Magic
Book Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Spice Rating 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Fave Quote
“This magic was different than any I’d ever known. Not the watered-down version of the Descendant’s diminished gift, but a pure, undiluted power that sang to me, a symphony that shook the stars, urged me to grasp all of that raw power in my hands and use it to burn everything to ash.
Summary
A whirlwind adventurous story of a slave girl turned princess, who finds herself in the middle of a war for an ancient power and destined to fulfill a prophecy shes determined to defy. Full of deadly fae, magic, court intrigue, and a touch of spice that makes this dark fantasy one you’ll want to pick up.
Review
I enjoyed the author’s ability to build up the characters and worlds without it being too complex and boring. The fast pace of the story kept me intrigued but not as much as all of the dark and mysterious males the author graced the pages of this book with- each dark and brooding, and morally grey with a touch of mystery, just how I like them. I picked this book up for the reverse harem aspect but soon realized there was a lot of build-up in this book that will hopefully satisfy my slow-burn why choose one fantasies in book 2. It also ends in a cliffhanger that has me curious to know how it will all play out.
Read if Your Into
Fated Mates
Arranged Marriage
Vicious Fae
Fantasy Romance
Prophecies
Reverse Harem
Magic & Mystery
Court Intrigue
************************
Trigger Warnings - assault, slavery, torture, violence.
Thank you to BookSirens and L.A. McGinnis for providing me with an ARC of this book and I willingly leave this review.
September 22, 2023
“Savage is My Kingdom” by L.A. McGinnis is a steamy dark fantasy romance that touts elements of forbidden love, found family, morally gray men, enemies to lovers - and more! It’s an epic fantasy story that’s fast-paced and tells the story of two warring kings and the young woman who’s determined to find her place in the world, on her own terms.
At 484 pages, the novel is a sizable read but McGinnis expertly weaves her words to maintain the pacing while doing some considerable world-building and keeps readers on the edge of their seats throughout most of the book. It doesn’t read like an almost 500-page book - I was so invested, I read the book in a day!
The characters are dynamic and well-developed, and Anaria is just a kick-ass female lead. Despite having a hard upbringing and the loss she suffers throughout the book, Anaria is strong, determined, and remains steadfast in her mission. Her head-strong tendencies and smart mouth often get her in trouble - especially with the four males she’s corralling to her cause - but she’s got a good heart and knows exactly how to handle her men. And the men! Each one is different and helps Anaria in his own way in her journey throughout this novel.
The story ends in a way that sets up the next book - and I’m eager to see how Anaria’s relationship with her four guys progresses. (Like will-she or won’t-she with the other three males who you KNOW she’s developing feelings for!) I cannot wait for the next book (“Cruel is My Court”) to come out at the end of November!
[Thank you to BookSirens for the opportunity to read this ARC, in exchange for my honest review.]
At 484 pages, the novel is a sizable read but McGinnis expertly weaves her words to maintain the pacing while doing some considerable world-building and keeps readers on the edge of their seats throughout most of the book. It doesn’t read like an almost 500-page book - I was so invested, I read the book in a day!
The characters are dynamic and well-developed, and Anaria is just a kick-ass female lead. Despite having a hard upbringing and the loss she suffers throughout the book, Anaria is strong, determined, and remains steadfast in her mission. Her head-strong tendencies and smart mouth often get her in trouble - especially with the four males she’s corralling to her cause - but she’s got a good heart and knows exactly how to handle her men. And the men! Each one is different and helps Anaria in his own way in her journey throughout this novel.
The story ends in a way that sets up the next book - and I’m eager to see how Anaria’s relationship with her four guys progresses. (Like will-she or won’t-she with the other three males who you KNOW she’s developing feelings for!) I cannot wait for the next book (“Cruel is My Court”) to come out at the end of November!
[Thank you to BookSirens for the opportunity to read this ARC, in exchange for my honest review.]
August 27, 2023
THIS BOOK! I am dying it was SO good! I don’t generally write in all caps but this book is deserving of that and more. L.A. McGinnis has outdone herself this time. I am obsessed with this new series. The characters are so vibrant and compelling. Anaria is a slave and subject to the cruel whims of the Descendants. They’re vile and cruel and think only they are deserving of all things good. Anyone else is beneath them and must serve them. But what they don’t know is, there are others who think the same of them…and their time is coming…and soon! Enter creatures out of a nightmare, Anaria is stolen away after a near catastrophic event right into a situation she has no way to deal with. An event so horrifying she can’t believe her eyes. Secrets upon secrets pile up. Who’s on her side? Who can she trust? There are a few she thinks she might be able to believe in but they are also harsh and cruel, keeping their own secrets. Only using her for their gain. She’s helpless, constantly being called a thief but she doesn’t know what she’s stolen, but maybe not for long. Not if she has the courage to grab what destiny is trying to hand her. Even if it’s at the behest of a monster far worse than any of the others. And what will it cost her? Can she survive the coming battle and keep the ones she’s come to care about alive? If you absolutely love books you can’t put down, you’re definitely gonna want to buy this book! I can’t wait for the next one!
October 4, 2023
Oh my Gods!
What a delicious read this was. I’m bordering on speechless.
What I liked -
The romance, really, why choose!? I loved the way the love interests are written. Each of them are three dimensional with their own backgrounds, motivations, and unique attributes. 5 star steamy.
The world building. The author did such a good job of dipping me into this fae filled universe. It wasn’t all thrown at me in the beginning chapter of the book, nor did it take the whole book to get the idea. I was slowly enveloped into understanding the world right alongside the MC.
The premise is outstanding. Tense and fraught with conflict but delectably so. It never gets dry. I was on the edge of my seat at every turn of the story. Never knowing who to trust, always looking over my shoulder (figuratively). This book is the epitome of a high fae fantasy.
Even the ending was superb. I usually hate when I can tell that I’m not getting the full story and will have to wait for another book. Despite the cliffhanger, I felt that it ended where it should have.
What I didn’t like -
There’s very little I didn’t like about this book.
I think the only thing I can really argue against is the insta-love. I really wasn’t even against that for the most part because it felt satisfying even if cliche.
In conclusion -
I can’t wait for book two to come out in November! I’m gonna snatch it up as soon as possible.
Thanks to the author and BookSirens for the ARC! It was my pleasure to review this book.
What a delicious read this was. I’m bordering on speechless.
What I liked -
The romance, really, why choose!? I loved the way the love interests are written. Each of them are three dimensional with their own backgrounds, motivations, and unique attributes. 5 star steamy.
The world building. The author did such a good job of dipping me into this fae filled universe. It wasn’t all thrown at me in the beginning chapter of the book, nor did it take the whole book to get the idea. I was slowly enveloped into understanding the world right alongside the MC.
The premise is outstanding. Tense and fraught with conflict but delectably so. It never gets dry. I was on the edge of my seat at every turn of the story. Never knowing who to trust, always looking over my shoulder (figuratively). This book is the epitome of a high fae fantasy.
Even the ending was superb. I usually hate when I can tell that I’m not getting the full story and will have to wait for another book. Despite the cliffhanger, I felt that it ended where it should have.
What I didn’t like -
There’s very little I didn’t like about this book.
I think the only thing I can really argue against is the insta-love. I really wasn’t even against that for the most part because it felt satisfying even if cliche.
In conclusion -
I can’t wait for book two to come out in November! I’m gonna snatch it up as soon as possible.
Thanks to the author and BookSirens for the ARC! It was my pleasure to review this book.
December 13, 2024
Volevo che questo libro mi piacesse, ma non avevo grandi aspettative, invece ha superato le mie aspettative, ma mi è piaciuto quel tanto che basta per leggerlo tutto, sebbene con un pò di fatica, ma non fino al punto di continuare la serie.
La trama fatta di intrighi politici, profezie e spionaggio è un pò confusa e con protagonisti alquanto improbabili.
Abbiamo dei personaggi che dovrebbero fare le cose con il massimo riserbo, invece si incontrano alla luce del giorno e spesso confabulano, una volta hanno spiattellato tutti i loro piani in un campo di addestramento pieno di soldati, attirano sempre l'attenzione su di loro, come quando Raz ( lo schiavo ) ha preso a pugni Zor ( comandante delle guardie del re ), o sempre Raz che non riesce a non toccare Anaria ( la principessa ).
La protagonista è anche abbastanza stupida ( o almeno ha preso spesso decisioni stupide ), ma mai come il resto dei personaggi che da 100 anni organizzano una rivolta senza considerare che Anaria è una persona che si muove e parla.
Questa è la grande colpa della protagonista, arrivata in un regno che la spaventa e non sapendo minimamente che qualcuno stava lavorando per portarla via di lì, ha cercato lei sola di trovare un modo per scappare.
Insomma, come ho già detto, un libro troppo confusionario e troppo illogico persino per un fantasy, forse se i personaggi mi fossero piaciuti avrei potuto continuare la storia, ma neanche loro hanno acceso la mia fantasia.
La trama fatta di intrighi politici, profezie e spionaggio è un pò confusa e con protagonisti alquanto improbabili.
Abbiamo dei personaggi che dovrebbero fare le cose con il massimo riserbo, invece si incontrano alla luce del giorno e spesso confabulano, una volta hanno spiattellato tutti i loro piani in un campo di addestramento pieno di soldati, attirano sempre l'attenzione su di loro, come quando Raz ( lo schiavo ) ha preso a pugni Zor ( comandante delle guardie del re ), o sempre Raz che non riesce a non toccare Anaria ( la principessa ).
La protagonista è anche abbastanza stupida ( o almeno ha preso spesso decisioni stupide ), ma mai come il resto dei personaggi che da 100 anni organizzano una rivolta senza considerare che Anaria è una persona che si muove e parla.
Questa è la grande colpa della protagonista, arrivata in un regno che la spaventa e non sapendo minimamente che qualcuno stava lavorando per portarla via di lì, ha cercato lei sola di trovare un modo per scappare.
Insomma, come ho già detto, un libro troppo confusionario e troppo illogico persino per un fantasy, forse se i personaggi mi fossero piaciuti avrei potuto continuare la storia, ma neanche loro hanno acceso la mia fantasia.
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