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Verity Guild
Secrets built this republic; one truth could burn it down.
High Priestess Kerasea Vestal has spent her life hiding the truth—that she’s the last surviving heir of the magical bloodline the republic slaughtered. One wrong step could be fatal. But when a senator is brutally killed and a temple blade is found at the scene, all eyes turn to her.
Praetorian Torren Morvane has made a career of dragging liars into the light, and Kerasea is the one person he’s vowed to ruin. But locked on a mountain with a murderer, scheming senators, and a prophecy of death, he’s forced to work at her side. The closer he gets, the more dangerous the truth—and their attraction—becomes.
With traitors closing in and a nation on the verge of shattering, Kerasea and Torren must risk everything to uncover the real killer…even if it means trusting their sworn enemy.
High Priestess Kerasea Vestal has spent her life hiding the truth—that she’s the last surviving heir of the magical bloodline the republic slaughtered. One wrong step could be fatal. But when a senator is brutally killed and a temple blade is found at the scene, all eyes turn to her.
Praetorian Torren Morvane has made a career of dragging liars into the light, and Kerasea is the one person he’s vowed to ruin. But locked on a mountain with a murderer, scheming senators, and a prophecy of death, he’s forced to work at her side. The closer he gets, the more dangerous the truth—and their attraction—becomes.
With traitors closing in and a nation on the verge of shattering, Kerasea and Torren must risk everything to uncover the real killer…even if it means trusting their sworn enemy.
374 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 5, 2026
276 people are currently reading
32031 people want to read
About the author
Mai Corland
6 books1,497 followersMai Corland is a Korean American attorney and writer, born in Seoul and adopted into New York. From there, she ran away from winter and studied in Florida at Rollins College and the University of Miami. Due to a variety of questionable decisions, she currently lives in the cold again with her partner, children, and a goldfish who will outlive them all. When not writing, you can find her asleep or clutching her latte machine. Mai writes award winning children’s and young adult books under Meredith Ireland.
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May 3, 2026An amazing fantasy detective story in Ancient Rome you didn't know you needed with enemies to lovers/ forbidden love. EXACTLY how I like it! Expect grudges that turn into obsession!! Just received a gorgeous Allurial edition of this book today and jumping in!!
February 13, 2026
I reviewed an ARC received via the Edelweiss platform.
Wow. I already know this is going to be one of my favorite books of the year. Without a doubt, a 5-star read for me.
I absolutely fell in love with Mai Corland’s storytelling when I read Five Broken Blades (and then immediately rushed to binge the next two in the series), so when I heard she was combining two of my favorite genres, murder mystery and fantasy, I was ecstatic! Verity Guild did not disappoint. Genuinely, if I tried to conceptualize a book tailored to everything I personally love in a story, I don’t think I could come up with something this good.
Our protagonist, High Priestess Kerasea Vestal, finds herself entangled in the mystery surrounding the death of a senator. The case is investigated by Praetorian Torren Morvane, who has a complicated relationship with Kerasea. I loved both of these characters and the way we slowly peel back their layers, revealing their shared history and their true selves, not just the versions the rest of Pryor believes them to be. One of my favorite things about Mai’s writing is how real her characters feel, and how intimately we come to know them by the end.
The story takes place primarily in a former palace, with a fraught political past. It’s such a perfect setting for a locked-door mystery—opulent and lush, yet tinged with something forgotten and eerily secluded. You can feel the emptiness of a massive, impressive space occupied by only a handful of guests. The scale and maze-like layout make for some incredibly tense moments.
I also loved the political intrigue and strategy woven throughout. I was constantly guessing at motives and trying to assess who might have secret alliances. The cast of characters is so well drawn, you suspect one person in one chapter and completely second-guess yourself in the next. It’s a genuinely twisty tale, and I absolutely did not expect for the story to take me where it did.
This book has everything: mystery, magic, murder, and just the right kind of spice. With the recent rise of romantasy, I think some authors fall into the “more is better” trap. Different strokes for different folks, but for me, I want spice when it makes sense. When it deepens relationships and serves the story. When it feels forced or gratuitous, it can pull me right out of the narrative. Mai absolutely nails the balance here.
Now excuse me while I go spread the good word of Mai Corland to anyone who will listen!
Wow. I already know this is going to be one of my favorite books of the year. Without a doubt, a 5-star read for me.
I absolutely fell in love with Mai Corland’s storytelling when I read Five Broken Blades (and then immediately rushed to binge the next two in the series), so when I heard she was combining two of my favorite genres, murder mystery and fantasy, I was ecstatic! Verity Guild did not disappoint. Genuinely, if I tried to conceptualize a book tailored to everything I personally love in a story, I don’t think I could come up with something this good.
Our protagonist, High Priestess Kerasea Vestal, finds herself entangled in the mystery surrounding the death of a senator. The case is investigated by Praetorian Torren Morvane, who has a complicated relationship with Kerasea. I loved both of these characters and the way we slowly peel back their layers, revealing their shared history and their true selves, not just the versions the rest of Pryor believes them to be. One of my favorite things about Mai’s writing is how real her characters feel, and how intimately we come to know them by the end.
The story takes place primarily in a former palace, with a fraught political past. It’s such a perfect setting for a locked-door mystery—opulent and lush, yet tinged with something forgotten and eerily secluded. You can feel the emptiness of a massive, impressive space occupied by only a handful of guests. The scale and maze-like layout make for some incredibly tense moments.
I also loved the political intrigue and strategy woven throughout. I was constantly guessing at motives and trying to assess who might have secret alliances. The cast of characters is so well drawn, you suspect one person in one chapter and completely second-guess yourself in the next. It’s a genuinely twisty tale, and I absolutely did not expect for the story to take me where it did.
This book has everything: mystery, magic, murder, and just the right kind of spice. With the recent rise of romantasy, I think some authors fall into the “more is better” trap. Different strokes for different folks, but for me, I want spice when it makes sense. When it deepens relationships and serves the story. When it feels forced or gratuitous, it can pull me right out of the narrative. Mai absolutely nails the balance here.
Now excuse me while I go spread the good word of Mai Corland to anyone who will listen!
May 4, 2026
If Mai Corland writes it, I’m reading it! Clue murder mystery, with Ancient Rome vibes, and a dash of romance! So good!
As high priestess, Kerasea is in charge of the faith of the republic. She oversees events, hears confessions, all while harboring a deadly secret of her own. Torren, the praetorian, keeps the council safe while heading investigations. Torren has spent his life wanting to bring justice upon those who deserve it, including Kerasea. But when the council gathers, murders arise, and Kerasea and Torren must unwilling work together to solve the mystery.
I was immediately pulled into this world and the mystery. I loved the idea of a locked room mystery and constantly found myself wondering who the culprit was. The story is filled with political intrigue, suspicion, and betrayal. I’m still skeptical with how the mystery came to a close since there seems to be a lot of story left to tell.
Kerasea and Torren’s relationship is one of my favorite parts. The attraction, secrets, and hurts of the past create sizzling tension between the two. There’s so much that they both still need to address and I’m already stressed for when everything comes to a head!
I was completely taken by surprise by the ending since it seemed to come out of nowhere. I’m still thinking about it and am eagerly awaiting the next book.
Many thanks to Entangled for the advanced copy!
As high priestess, Kerasea is in charge of the faith of the republic. She oversees events, hears confessions, all while harboring a deadly secret of her own. Torren, the praetorian, keeps the council safe while heading investigations. Torren has spent his life wanting to bring justice upon those who deserve it, including Kerasea. But when the council gathers, murders arise, and Kerasea and Torren must unwilling work together to solve the mystery.
I was immediately pulled into this world and the mystery. I loved the idea of a locked room mystery and constantly found myself wondering who the culprit was. The story is filled with political intrigue, suspicion, and betrayal. I’m still skeptical with how the mystery came to a close since there seems to be a lot of story left to tell.
Kerasea and Torren’s relationship is one of my favorite parts. The attraction, secrets, and hurts of the past create sizzling tension between the two. There’s so much that they both still need to address and I’m already stressed for when everything comes to a head!
I was completely taken by surprise by the ending since it seemed to come out of nowhere. I’m still thinking about it and am eagerly awaiting the next book.
Many thanks to Entangled for the advanced copy!
April 10, 2026
Vertiy Guild by Mai Corland is the fantasy detective story you didn't know you needed. It is definitely for fans of Crescent City and Heartless Hunter who love a little fantasy with their murder mystery. It is set in a word inspired by ancient Rome, following the overthrow and extermination of the magical Elusion bloodline. I found the murder mystery in a fantasy dynamic to be very captivating, and I was drawn into the story from the first chapter.
The characters find themselves locked into a castle during the conclave where the senators will vote on all of the laws and decisions for the republic following the death of the senate leader. The High Priestess and Praetorian are in attendance as well as leader of the faith and protector of the senate. However, the murders don't stop while sequestered in a castle, and the Praetorean has his eyes set on the High Priestess.
Did you love Gideon Sharpe from Heartless Hunter? Meet Torren, the common born Praetorian whose job is to protect the sentators, and a respected member of the Verity Guild - a group of three who oversees cases of high treason. Torren is a detective through and through, and as the murders pile up, he is racing against time to find the killer. If he doesn't, he will likely be removed as Praetorian and could be sentenced to death. Not of noble birth, he needs to maintain his position of power.
Kerasea is the High Priestess of the god of truth. She is held in the highest ranks and revered among all. She is young, having been forced into the position after her fathers death, but she is doing her best. She is being framed for the murders that take place in this book, and she works her own angles to let truth prevail. But can she do is without disclosing all of her secrets?
I found the active roll the gods take within the society to be unique and captivating. The gods are worshipped and revered, but they also make themselves known through the High Priestess and it's not based on blind faith. There are acts of god that are witnessed and honored. The power of the temple is offset by the Senate, elected by the people. But power corrupts, and it is no different in the Republic of Pryor.
This is a great book. It is fun to read, action packed, and flows like a criminal investigative show. I wish that the book had a pronunciation guide at the front. There is a list of characters and a map but I'm still not positive how to pronounce "Kerasea." I also was a bit thrown off by the descriptions of the male attire in this book - they wore togas, leather skirts with shorts underneath, and then also suit jackets and pants - the latter of which felt a bit inconsistent with the times, but I guess I don't really know when suit jackets and pants became widely available. It didn't take way from the story but felt inconsistent.
Read this book if you love:
Slow Burn
Enemies to Lovers
Criminal Investigation shows
Tension
Forced Proximity
Murder Mysteries
Class Disparity
Hidden Identity (not from the reader)
The characters find themselves locked into a castle during the conclave where the senators will vote on all of the laws and decisions for the republic following the death of the senate leader. The High Priestess and Praetorian are in attendance as well as leader of the faith and protector of the senate. However, the murders don't stop while sequestered in a castle, and the Praetorean has his eyes set on the High Priestess.
Did you love Gideon Sharpe from Heartless Hunter? Meet Torren, the common born Praetorian whose job is to protect the sentators, and a respected member of the Verity Guild - a group of three who oversees cases of high treason. Torren is a detective through and through, and as the murders pile up, he is racing against time to find the killer. If he doesn't, he will likely be removed as Praetorian and could be sentenced to death. Not of noble birth, he needs to maintain his position of power.
Kerasea is the High Priestess of the god of truth. She is held in the highest ranks and revered among all. She is young, having been forced into the position after her fathers death, but she is doing her best. She is being framed for the murders that take place in this book, and she works her own angles to let truth prevail. But can she do is without disclosing all of her secrets?
I found the active roll the gods take within the society to be unique and captivating. The gods are worshipped and revered, but they also make themselves known through the High Priestess and it's not based on blind faith. There are acts of god that are witnessed and honored. The power of the temple is offset by the Senate, elected by the people. But power corrupts, and it is no different in the Republic of Pryor.
This is a great book. It is fun to read, action packed, and flows like a criminal investigative show. I wish that the book had a pronunciation guide at the front. There is a list of characters and a map but I'm still not positive how to pronounce "Kerasea." I also was a bit thrown off by the descriptions of the male attire in this book - they wore togas, leather skirts with shorts underneath, and then also suit jackets and pants - the latter of which felt a bit inconsistent with the times, but I guess I don't really know when suit jackets and pants became widely available. It didn't take way from the story but felt inconsistent.
Read this book if you love:
Slow Burn
Enemies to Lovers
Criminal Investigation shows
Tension
Forced Proximity
Murder Mysteries
Class Disparity
Hidden Identity (not from the reader)
May 2, 2026
Verity Guild is a romantasy x political drama x closed-circle murder mystery — a loaded combo that’s compelling and fresh.
High Priestess Kerasea and Praetorian Torren are locked in a mountaintop conclave with the republic’s senators. As new laws are debated, bodies start dropping, and the balance of power teeters. Kerasea’s lifelong secret makes Torren an unlikely ally, but the two develop a tentative bond, pursuing justice while the ruling elite seem content to sweep it under the rug.
I enjoyed it all — the magic, the mystery, the political intrigue, the romance.
The cliffhanger caught me by surprise. I had incorrectly assumed this would be a standalone with the mystery wrapped up neatly at the end. I still have my suspicions about one character in particular though… so, looking forward to finding out if I’m right in the next book!
Thanks to Red Tower Books and NetGalley for the e-ARC! All opinions are my own.
High Priestess Kerasea and Praetorian Torren are locked in a mountaintop conclave with the republic’s senators. As new laws are debated, bodies start dropping, and the balance of power teeters. Kerasea’s lifelong secret makes Torren an unlikely ally, but the two develop a tentative bond, pursuing justice while the ruling elite seem content to sweep it under the rug.
I enjoyed it all — the magic, the mystery, the political intrigue, the romance.
The cliffhanger caught me by surprise. I had incorrectly assumed this would be a standalone with the mystery wrapped up neatly at the end. I still have my suspicions about one character in particular though… so, looking forward to finding out if I’m right in the next book!
Thanks to Red Tower Books and NetGalley for the e-ARC! All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
OH MY GOODNESS GRACIOUS. I mean… just… I was at least right about one major thing so that counts as a win, considering how many plot twists this book had lol! This book hooked me in from the very beginning & had me on the edge of my seat the entire time — I hated having to put it down!
First off, I LOVE Kera & Tor. like, so much, and I have a few of my own theories about both of them that weren’t answered in this first book, so I’m already anxious & looking forward to book two! the ONLY bad thing about arc reading is that you’re already dying for the next book before the first is even released😅 but that just speaks to the author’s uncanny ability to keep you that invested! …and invested, I was!
This is a slow burn romantasy, but it was also a murder mystery & had a lot of suspense along with everything else that comes with romantasy, and I mean it when I say I hated having to put it down!
🫶🏼 thank you, Red Tower Books for the gifted physical copy! all thoughts are my own
☾𖤓 “Most everything about working with him is good for me. That is, of course, unless he uncovers that I am Elusian.” (not a spoiler) ☾𖤓
5⭐️
First off, I LOVE Kera & Tor. like, so much, and I have a few of my own theories about both of them that weren’t answered in this first book, so I’m already anxious & looking forward to book two! the ONLY bad thing about arc reading is that you’re already dying for the next book before the first is even released😅 but that just speaks to the author’s uncanny ability to keep you that invested! …and invested, I was!
This is a slow burn romantasy, but it was also a murder mystery & had a lot of suspense along with everything else that comes with romantasy, and I mean it when I say I hated having to put it down!
🫶🏼 thank you, Red Tower Books for the gifted physical copy! all thoughts are my own
☾𖤓 “Most everything about working with him is good for me. That is, of course, unless he uncovers that I am Elusian.” (not a spoiler) ☾𖤓
5⭐️
April 24, 2026
Thank you so much to Netgalley, Entangled and Red Tower, and Mai Corland for the ARC of this book! This is my first murder mystery book and the fact that it was also a romantasy was just an incredible combination. The world building was really good and I absolutely adored the FMC and MMC!! The FMC was such a badass and the MMC as grumpy as he was 🤭❤️ is such a fun character to read!!
I didn’t realize how much I like murder mysteries until reading Verity Guild!
This book had me questioning everything I thought I knew from the first page to the very last page. And that ending had me absolutely SHOOK!! What a cliffhanger!!!
Tropes:
Grumpy love interest
Slow burn romance
Murder mystery romantasy
Deadly games of power
Grudges and betrayal
Conspiracies
I didn’t realize how much I like murder mysteries until reading Verity Guild!
This book had me questioning everything I thought I knew from the first page to the very last page. And that ending had me absolutely SHOOK!! What a cliffhanger!!!
Tropes:
Grumpy love interest
Slow burn romance
Murder mystery romantasy
Deadly games of power
Grudges and betrayal
Conspiracies
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
I had an insane amount of fun reading Verity Guild. Like—actually feral, pacing-my-room, “just one more chapter” kind of fun. This book is basically a murder mystery wrapped in a fantasy setting and I was EATING IT UP. I was suspicious of EVERYONE. Trust? Gone. Peace? Nonexistent. I needed to know who did it immediately.
Mai Corland really said “I will give you clues but I will also make you spiral” and she delivered. The hints are there, you can piece things together, but it never ruins the mystery. I was locked in, fully unwell, side-eyeing every character like they personally wronged me.
AND THEN THAT ENDING??? I genuinely thought this was a standalone so imagine me, already emotionally invested, turning the last pages and getting smacked in the face with a cliffhanger the size of a building. I sat there. In silence. Processing betrayal. Book one isn’t even officially out yet and I’m already suffering waiting for book two???
Kera and Tor??? Oh I’m OBSESSED. Tor is that grumpy, hates-everyone-except-her type and I will NEVER get tired of that trope. Oh he’s rude to the entire world but soft for her?? Inject it into my veins. I will eat that every single time, no questions asked. Meanwhile Kera’s character development?? Chef’s kiss. Watching her grow into herself was so satisfying and I NEED her to go even harder with her powers in book two. Also I have QUESTIONS about her origins and I expect answers!!!
Also can we talk about the setting?? Murder mystery but make it ancient Roman-inspired fantasy?? Why is this not a whole genre already??? We need MORE of this immediately.
My only gripe—and it’s not even really on the author—is the whole “romantasy” label. This is NOT that. The romance is there, sure, but it is very much playing backup dancer to the murder mystery. The vibes are mystery first, yearning second. Publishers need to calm down with the romantasy stamp on everything.
Anyway, 4.5 stars, I had the time of my life, and now I’m left here emotionally compromised waiting for book two like a clown.
Mai Corland really said “I will give you clues but I will also make you spiral” and she delivered. The hints are there, you can piece things together, but it never ruins the mystery. I was locked in, fully unwell, side-eyeing every character like they personally wronged me.
AND THEN THAT ENDING??? I genuinely thought this was a standalone so imagine me, already emotionally invested, turning the last pages and getting smacked in the face with a cliffhanger the size of a building. I sat there. In silence. Processing betrayal. Book one isn’t even officially out yet and I’m already suffering waiting for book two???
Kera and Tor??? Oh I’m OBSESSED. Tor is that grumpy, hates-everyone-except-her type and I will NEVER get tired of that trope. Oh he’s rude to the entire world but soft for her?? Inject it into my veins. I will eat that every single time, no questions asked. Meanwhile Kera’s character development?? Chef’s kiss. Watching her grow into herself was so satisfying and I NEED her to go even harder with her powers in book two. Also I have QUESTIONS about her origins and I expect answers!!!
Also can we talk about the setting?? Murder mystery but make it ancient Roman-inspired fantasy?? Why is this not a whole genre already??? We need MORE of this immediately.
My only gripe—and it’s not even really on the author—is the whole “romantasy” label. This is NOT that. The romance is there, sure, but it is very much playing backup dancer to the murder mystery. The vibes are mystery first, yearning second. Publishers need to calm down with the romantasy stamp on everything.
Anyway, 4.5 stars, I had the time of my life, and now I’m left here emotionally compromised waiting for book two like a clown.
May 6, 2026
Thank you NetGalley and Entangled for the eARC!
This book was magnificent and it was everything I could have wanted. It perfectly blended my love of fantasy with my other great love, a head-scratching murder mystery that kept me guessing! The cliffhanger at the end has me so stressed (in a good way…I think?) and I can’t wait to read what happens next!
This book was magnificent and it was everything I could have wanted. It perfectly blended my love of fantasy with my other great love, a head-scratching murder mystery that kept me guessing! The cliffhanger at the end has me so stressed (in a good way…I think?) and I can’t wait to read what happens next!
April 20, 2026
Review of advanced copy from NetGalley.
I didn’t realize how much I needed a fantasy murder mystery like Verity Guild until I was completely pulled into it. This book is such a fun, addictive blend of intrigue, magic, and slow-burn tension, and it hooked me within the first few chapters.
The setting is one of my favorite parts. It has this ancient Rome–inspired atmosphere layered with political tension, power struggles, and a society where the gods are very real and very present. The entire story unfolding within this locked-in, high-stakes conclave creates such an intense, almost claustrophobic feeling—in the best way. It reads like a fantasy version of a criminal investigation show, but with higher stakes and way more secrets.
And the mystery? I was second-guessing myself the entire time. Every time I thought I had a handle on what was happening, something shifted. The twists keep coming, the tension keeps building, and by the end I was still questioning everything (in a way that made me immediately want book two).
Kerasea and Torren absolutely carried this story for me. Kerasea, young, powerful, and under constant scrutiny, with secrets of her own was such a compelling FMC to follow, especially as everything starts closing in around her. And Torren? The classic determined warrior/investigator who starts out convinced of one thing and slowly realizes nothing is as simple as it seems. Their dynamic is exactly what I want in an enemies-to-lovers setup—suspicious, layered, and full of that underlying tension that just keeps building.
I also really appreciated how the romance was handled. It’s a true slow burn meaning it’s intentional, simmering, and woven into the story rather than overpowering it. It adds to the stakes instead of distracting from them, which made it hit even harder.
If you love:
• fantasy + murder mystery
• political intrigue and power plays
• locked-room/closed setting tension
• slow burn, enemies-to-lovers
• constantly questioning who you can trust
…you’re going to have a great time with this.
This one was such a compelling, bingeable read for me. I flew through it, got completely wrapped up in the mystery, and now I’m just sitting here like…okay but I need the next book immediately!
I didn’t realize how much I needed a fantasy murder mystery like Verity Guild until I was completely pulled into it. This book is such a fun, addictive blend of intrigue, magic, and slow-burn tension, and it hooked me within the first few chapters.
The setting is one of my favorite parts. It has this ancient Rome–inspired atmosphere layered with political tension, power struggles, and a society where the gods are very real and very present. The entire story unfolding within this locked-in, high-stakes conclave creates such an intense, almost claustrophobic feeling—in the best way. It reads like a fantasy version of a criminal investigation show, but with higher stakes and way more secrets.
And the mystery? I was second-guessing myself the entire time. Every time I thought I had a handle on what was happening, something shifted. The twists keep coming, the tension keeps building, and by the end I was still questioning everything (in a way that made me immediately want book two).
Kerasea and Torren absolutely carried this story for me. Kerasea, young, powerful, and under constant scrutiny, with secrets of her own was such a compelling FMC to follow, especially as everything starts closing in around her. And Torren? The classic determined warrior/investigator who starts out convinced of one thing and slowly realizes nothing is as simple as it seems. Their dynamic is exactly what I want in an enemies-to-lovers setup—suspicious, layered, and full of that underlying tension that just keeps building.
I also really appreciated how the romance was handled. It’s a true slow burn meaning it’s intentional, simmering, and woven into the story rather than overpowering it. It adds to the stakes instead of distracting from them, which made it hit even harder.
If you love:
• fantasy + murder mystery
• political intrigue and power plays
• locked-room/closed setting tension
• slow burn, enemies-to-lovers
• constantly questioning who you can trust
…you’re going to have a great time with this.
This one was such a compelling, bingeable read for me. I flew through it, got completely wrapped up in the mystery, and now I’m just sitting here like…okay but I need the next book immediately!
May 7, 2026
I loved five broken blades, the rest of the series was shaky at best but in my opinion the first book did everything it was supposed to. That's what I was hoping to get with the beginning of this new series, but instead this was a big let down.
Verity guild is a two pov story, which was the first problem. Cortland's writing style relies heavily on pacing, and her choice to make it fast and addictive is making really short chapters, and while it worked perfectly in broken blades(for me at least, I know some people thought it jarring) because of the number of povs here it doesn't work. It's just tiring because it appears like the plot is progressing fast but in reality it isn't.
Another problem is how repetitive the story is, it's a locked place murder mystery, but it didn't need to do the exact same thing multiple times, down to leading us to the same character as a suspect when it was clear from the beginning he wasn't to blame.
The romance is another enemies to lovers that doesn't feel believable because we don't understand why they hate each other. Tor said in the first chapters Kerasea is classist but that is never touched again, sure she is sheltered but where did that claim even come from? Kera doesn't like Tor because of his father but she's intelligent enough to know that's ridiculous, especially with her own history. It's clear the author just wanted to write an enemies to lovers and everything surrounding that was an after thought.
The world building is shaky, I can't figure out what she wanted to do with the religion part. Tor makes a remark about how there are many gods but they only legitimized one, but then the main character is in a position that supports that claim. Maybe it will be explored in the next books, but as we've seen before that's not the writer's forte.
I don't know if I will continue the series, probably not.
Verity guild is a two pov story, which was the first problem. Cortland's writing style relies heavily on pacing, and her choice to make it fast and addictive is making really short chapters, and while it worked perfectly in broken blades(for me at least, I know some people thought it jarring) because of the number of povs here it doesn't work. It's just tiring because it appears like the plot is progressing fast but in reality it isn't.
Another problem is how repetitive the story is, it's a locked place murder mystery, but it didn't need to do the exact same thing multiple times, down to leading us to the same character as a suspect when it was clear from the beginning he wasn't to blame.
The romance is another enemies to lovers that doesn't feel believable because we don't understand why they hate each other. Tor said in the first chapters Kerasea is classist but that is never touched again, sure she is sheltered but where did that claim even come from? Kera doesn't like Tor because of his father but she's intelligent enough to know that's ridiculous, especially with her own history. It's clear the author just wanted to write an enemies to lovers and everything surrounding that was an after thought.
The world building is shaky, I can't figure out what she wanted to do with the religion part. Tor makes a remark about how there are many gods but they only legitimized one, but then the main character is in a position that supports that claim. Maybe it will be explored in the next books, but as we've seen before that's not the writer's forte.
I don't know if I will continue the series, probably not.
May 6, 2026
This was super unique and I always love a good mystery to go along with my romantasy but this was so different then other mystery romantasy books I’ve read that tend to be in urban fantasy settings - I loved the Ancient Rome vibes. It was lowkey giving Clue but make it fantasy setting. The way it really is mostly a locked in mystery and that’s the central plot was both exciting but also I craved a little more fantasy and romance so took a while to get fully immersed into the story for me but by 30% or so I was binging it and trying to figure out the murder mystery!
The slow burn forced proximity between Kerasea and Torren was really fun and I loved all the delicious tension! The ending really caught me off guard and I’m very curious what will happen next. I don’t know if this is exactly my type of read but I absolutely think it is one of the most unique books I’ve read in a while!
Thank you to Entangled for the eARC!
The slow burn forced proximity between Kerasea and Torren was really fun and I loved all the delicious tension! The ending really caught me off guard and I’m very curious what will happen next. I don’t know if this is exactly my type of read but I absolutely think it is one of the most unique books I’ve read in a while!
Thank you to Entangled for the eARC!
May 5, 2026
VERITY GUIlD, by Mai Corland had a lot to live up to after her FIVE BROKEN BLADES trilogy. I was thrilled to find that this was absolutely as captivating as I was hoping it would be! The story takes place in an Ancient Rome setting, merging political ambitions, faith, long standing grudges, forbidden magic, longing, and a "locked room" style mystery.
High Priestess Kerasea Vestal is the leader of the Faith. Her role means that her presence is necessary as Pryor's Senators (of the different Provinces) head to an old castle for a week of passing laws and deciding fates. Besides the Senators are the guards, select servants, and Praetorian Torren Morvane--the one in charge of protecting and investigating any problems the Senate has. The fact that they are all locked in--literally--for a week, makes it the perfect time for distrust and alliances both to be tested. Of no small matter is the fact that Torren wishes to see Kerasea fall from favor, as he sees her as the one who brought the downfall of his family name many years before.
The characters--and there are many--are shown to us so thoroughly that by the end, I still vividly remember all of them, and their personalities. The banter between some was fantastic, and the scenes in which Kera and Torren are together are completely captivating. The two are drawn to each other--despite themselves--once the blood starts flowing. The political motivations, hatred, assumed alliances, all come into play as more lives are lost in a style reminiscent of "And Then There Were None".
In spite of the dire situation, there are many humorous moments, as well as the angst and attraction between Kera and Torren. The pacing moves along steadily, with so many twists that I didn't want to put the book down. I changed my own "guesses" multiple times in the course of the novel!
I can't wait for the next book in the series, as this one kept my attention at every page, with an ending that absolutely floored me. This author is one to keep an eye on!
Highly recommended.
High Priestess Kerasea Vestal is the leader of the Faith. Her role means that her presence is necessary as Pryor's Senators (of the different Provinces) head to an old castle for a week of passing laws and deciding fates. Besides the Senators are the guards, select servants, and Praetorian Torren Morvane--the one in charge of protecting and investigating any problems the Senate has. The fact that they are all locked in--literally--for a week, makes it the perfect time for distrust and alliances both to be tested. Of no small matter is the fact that Torren wishes to see Kerasea fall from favor, as he sees her as the one who brought the downfall of his family name many years before.
The characters--and there are many--are shown to us so thoroughly that by the end, I still vividly remember all of them, and their personalities. The banter between some was fantastic, and the scenes in which Kera and Torren are together are completely captivating. The two are drawn to each other--despite themselves--once the blood starts flowing. The political motivations, hatred, assumed alliances, all come into play as more lives are lost in a style reminiscent of "And Then There Were None".
In spite of the dire situation, there are many humorous moments, as well as the angst and attraction between Kera and Torren. The pacing moves along steadily, with so many twists that I didn't want to put the book down. I changed my own "guesses" multiple times in the course of the novel!
I can't wait for the next book in the series, as this one kept my attention at every page, with an ending that absolutely floored me. This author is one to keep an eye on!
Highly recommended.
May 6, 2026
Mai Corland is one of my guilty pleasure authors. There’s something about her writing that just pulls you in and makes her books so easy and fun to read. The chapters are short, so you breeze through them without even noticing.
Even though this story leans heavily on familiar romantasy tropes and plays them pretty straight, it didn’t bother me as much as it usually does. We’ve got the "chosen one" heroine and a brooding hero with a tortured past, but the plot revolves around a murder mystery, which keeps things more engaging than not.
That said, I can definitely see the flaws. One thing that stood out, and I remember this from Corland’s previous trilogy too, is how the characters tend to overdramatize things in their heads, even when nothing major is happening. If that annoyed you before, it probably will here as well. The ending is also a full cliffhanger, so you don’t get many answers by the time you reach the last page.
Anyways. Now I’m just sitting here impatiently waiting for the next book.
Even though this story leans heavily on familiar romantasy tropes and plays them pretty straight, it didn’t bother me as much as it usually does. We’ve got the "chosen one" heroine and a brooding hero with a tortured past, but the plot revolves around a murder mystery, which keeps things more engaging than not.
That said, I can definitely see the flaws. One thing that stood out, and I remember this from Corland’s previous trilogy too, is how the characters tend to overdramatize things in their heads, even when nothing major is happening. If that annoyed you before, it probably will here as well. The ending is also a full cliffhanger, so you don’t get many answers by the time you reach the last page.
Anyways. Now I’m just sitting here impatiently waiting for the next book.
April 25, 2026
Thank you Entangled and Red Tower for the eARC!
Mai Corland has officially reached “auto-read, no questions asked” status for me, and Verity Guild just proves why. Everything she writes feels like perfection—and somehow she keeps raising the bar.
This was completely unputdownable.
The world is tense and razor-sharp, built on secrets that feel like they could collapse everything at any moment. Kerasea is such a compelling main character—a High Priestess forced to hide a truth that could get her killed, constantly walking the line between power and survival. I was invested in her immediately and never let go.
And Torren… the man is literally devoted to exposing lies, with Kerasea at the top of his list, which makes their dynamic absolutely electric. The enemies-to-lovers tension is done so well—sharp, dangerous, and full of that slow-burn pull that keeps you turning pages. Add in forced proximity, a murder investigation, political maneuvering, and a looming prophecy, and it’s just nonstop momentum.
Every layer of this story builds on the last—secrets, betrayals, shifting alliances—and just when you think you have a handle on it…
That ending.
I genuinely did not see it coming. Not even a little. And the way it just cuts off left me staring at the page in shock. I needed more immediately.
If you love high-stakes fantasy with political intrigue, complex characters, and tension that never lets up, this is absolutely worth the read.
I’m still thinking about it—and very impatiently waiting for what comes next.
Mai Corland has officially reached “auto-read, no questions asked” status for me, and Verity Guild just proves why. Everything she writes feels like perfection—and somehow she keeps raising the bar.
This was completely unputdownable.
The world is tense and razor-sharp, built on secrets that feel like they could collapse everything at any moment. Kerasea is such a compelling main character—a High Priestess forced to hide a truth that could get her killed, constantly walking the line between power and survival. I was invested in her immediately and never let go.
And Torren… the man is literally devoted to exposing lies, with Kerasea at the top of his list, which makes their dynamic absolutely electric. The enemies-to-lovers tension is done so well—sharp, dangerous, and full of that slow-burn pull that keeps you turning pages. Add in forced proximity, a murder investigation, political maneuvering, and a looming prophecy, and it’s just nonstop momentum.
Every layer of this story builds on the last—secrets, betrayals, shifting alliances—and just when you think you have a handle on it…
That ending.
I genuinely did not see it coming. Not even a little. And the way it just cuts off left me staring at the page in shock. I needed more immediately.
If you love high-stakes fantasy with political intrigue, complex characters, and tension that never lets up, this is absolutely worth the read.
I’m still thinking about it—and very impatiently waiting for what comes next.
May 5, 2026
Happy release day, and thanks to Red Tower for the ARC in exchange for an honest review :)
More like 2.5 rounded down. This wasn’t bad, clearly it was entertaining enough to finish in a couple hours, but I was just…. bored and uninterested in the general plot. I liked the mystery element to it but things weren’t really explained the way I wanted them to be. I also didn’t really care about the characters. The ending was very abrupt, and even after 350 pages, it didn’t feel wrapped up.
I’m sure this will be a very popular book to a certain audience! I just think that this was entertaining enough to finish in a couple hours but i have no intention of reading book 2 when it releases because I just didn’t care enough about the story. (I also have a lot of gripes over the misuse of Ancient Roman aspects but that’s just me being an annoyed history major.)
More like 2.5 rounded down. This wasn’t bad, clearly it was entertaining enough to finish in a couple hours, but I was just…. bored and uninterested in the general plot. I liked the mystery element to it but things weren’t really explained the way I wanted them to be. I also didn’t really care about the characters. The ending was very abrupt, and even after 350 pages, it didn’t feel wrapped up.
I’m sure this will be a very popular book to a certain audience! I just think that this was entertaining enough to finish in a couple hours but i have no intention of reading book 2 when it releases because I just didn’t care enough about the story. (I also have a lot of gripes over the misuse of Ancient Roman aspects but that’s just me being an annoyed history major.)
Want to Read
May 5, 2026Pre read:
❤️😊
Release day! Looking forward to trying out this Autor. This sounds interesting!
❤️😊
Release day! Looking forward to trying out this Autor. This sounds interesting!
May 6, 2026
This is my first experience reading one of Mai’s books, and I truly can say that she did not disappoint from everything that I’ve been hearing. The writing was so dynamic and she really brought these characters to life on the page. I love dual POV when you’re doing a romance novel specifically because it just adds so much more context and depth. She did such a good job of bouncing back-and-forth and weaving in the different elements throughout the story for each character.
The world building and Court intrigue of this story was very complex and still easy to follow in my opinion. I loved the magic system and our FMC is really starting to uncover who she is. This book does end on a cliffhanger so know that going in. I will definitely be continuing this series when book 2 comes out. I truly enjoyed reading this book and recommend it for anyone who enjoys fantasy, books with magic, political intrigue, mysteries/Whodunnit vibes. There is some on page violence so definitely read your trigger warnings.
5 ⭐️ 2 🌶️
The world building and Court intrigue of this story was very complex and still easy to follow in my opinion. I loved the magic system and our FMC is really starting to uncover who she is. This book does end on a cliffhanger so know that going in. I will definitely be continuing this series when book 2 comes out. I truly enjoyed reading this book and recommend it for anyone who enjoys fantasy, books with magic, political intrigue, mysteries/Whodunnit vibes. There is some on page violence so definitely read your trigger warnings.
5 ⭐️ 2 🌶️
Want to Read
January 21, 2026mai writes and i read (setting reminder for publication date rn)
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
3.5 stars rounded up? I guess? This could change the more I think about it.
Here's my attempt at pulling my thoughts together for this book.
I devoured this in less than 48 hours, the locked-in vibe and the tension surrounding the characters' safety and guilt vs innocence kept the book moving along quite well. I found myself really eager to pick it back up each time I put the book down.
First of all, this is primarily a murder mystery - yes, it has a fantasy setting and other fantasy elements mixed in - and yes, it does have a rather slow building enemies to lovers romance. But the entire book is completely centered around solving the murder(s).
The Characters: Kerasea and Torren are two deeply distrusting people, and I get it. I wouldn't trust anyone if I were them either. So having to rely on each other to solve a murder would definitely not be ideal. Kerasea's role as High Priestess is a really fascinating one to see how she works with the Senators around her. And Torren's protectiveness is great while he is tasked with maintaining everyone's safety... did I mention there is murder going on? And then the rest of the Senators?? All of them are corrupt politicians. So like, perfectly accurate and very well done.
The Romance: This a slower development over the course of the story because both Kerasea and Torren are very resistant to the feelings that start to blossom due to some sordid history. I do think the first spicy scene was, while later in the book... happened kind of all of a sudden? But I liked them together and the dependency they were starting to build during a stressful situation so I get it.
The World: This is a world of Roman-inspired politics and settings. The different factions of power played out very strategically throughout, and I am eager to see how the sequel will continue to display the vastness of the world and the corruption of manipulative, power-hungry leaders.
The Murder Mystery: Maybe I'm just used to standalone thrillers/mysteries, but I was expecting to have a liiiiiiittle more concrete resolution by the end of this - I didn't need everything to be clean cut, but for all of the time spent investigating murders, I still don't feel like the answers we got were actually concrete? Which obviously sets up nicely for a sequel, but leaves this one feeling just a little too incomplete for me. (I battled myself on this a lot, because it's a fine balance on mystery and answers, and also leaving room for continued storytelling. But this is where I land right now.)
Will I read the next one? You betcha!
Thank you to Red Tower Books and Entangled Publishing for the advance physical copy of this title!
Here's my attempt at pulling my thoughts together for this book.
I devoured this in less than 48 hours, the locked-in vibe and the tension surrounding the characters' safety and guilt vs innocence kept the book moving along quite well. I found myself really eager to pick it back up each time I put the book down.
First of all, this is primarily a murder mystery - yes, it has a fantasy setting and other fantasy elements mixed in - and yes, it does have a rather slow building enemies to lovers romance. But the entire book is completely centered around solving the murder(s).
The Characters: Kerasea and Torren are two deeply distrusting people, and I get it. I wouldn't trust anyone if I were them either. So having to rely on each other to solve a murder would definitely not be ideal. Kerasea's role as High Priestess is a really fascinating one to see how she works with the Senators around her. And Torren's protectiveness is great while he is tasked with maintaining everyone's safety... did I mention there is murder going on? And then the rest of the Senators?? All of them are corrupt politicians. So like, perfectly accurate and very well done.
The Romance: This a slower development over the course of the story because both Kerasea and Torren are very resistant to the feelings that start to blossom due to some sordid history. I do think the first spicy scene was, while later in the book... happened kind of all of a sudden? But I liked them together and the dependency they were starting to build during a stressful situation so I get it.
The World: This is a world of Roman-inspired politics and settings. The different factions of power played out very strategically throughout, and I am eager to see how the sequel will continue to display the vastness of the world and the corruption of manipulative, power-hungry leaders.
The Murder Mystery: Maybe I'm just used to standalone thrillers/mysteries, but I was expecting to have a liiiiiiittle more concrete resolution by the end of this - I didn't need everything to be clean cut, but for all of the time spent investigating murders, I still don't feel like the answers we got were actually concrete? Which obviously sets up nicely for a sequel, but leaves this one feeling just a little too incomplete for me. (I battled myself on this a lot, because it's a fine balance on mystery and answers, and also leaving room for continued storytelling. But this is where I land right now.)
Will I read the next one? You betcha!
Thank you to Red Tower Books and Entangled Publishing for the advance physical copy of this title!
May 7, 2026
5 Stars (If I could give more, I would.)
Following the success of the Five Broken Blades series, Mai Corland has struck lightning again with Verity Guild, a romantic fantasy murder mystery that gives off Ancient Roman vibes.
The Republic of Pryor is made up of seven provinces, each with a representative known as a Senator. Together, these seven senators make up the Senate Council. Council rules dictate that the senators, their small entourage, the High Priestess of the Temple of Truth, and the Praetorian be sequestered for a week to conduct business in a mountain palace with only a handful of palace staff.
Kerasea Vestal is the High Priestess of the Temple of Truth. She’s ill-prepared for the position, finding herself wondering how her father would do things and if she’s making the right decisions. She carries a secret that, if discovered, could get her killed and possibly put the Republic in jeopardy. Torren Morvane is the Senate Investigator and Protector, known as the Praetorian. He has a strong sense of right and wrong, yet he seems to have his own secrets. These two have been enemies since childhood.
When a Senator is found dead, things get complicated. No one is allowed to enter or leave, meaning there is a killer amongst them. While Torren tries to investigate, his hands are tied as the remaining members limit his investigative scope. These enemies become reluctant allies as more bodies pile up and they vow to bring the killer to justice.
I love the characters of Kerasea and Torren. They're multi-layered and complicated. They have a strong attraction to each other, which leads to a slow-burn spicy romance.
Verity Guild is told from multiple points of view, and had me guessing until the very end. The story ends on a shocking cliffhanger. I am completely blown away and so glad there is at least one more book coming, which I need immediately, as I’m going to be thinking about this story for a long time.
~ Favorite Quotes ~
“Doing good doesn’t mean you have to be selfless. The weight of a good deed is measured alone.”
“We are all worthy of forgiveness when our hearts are pure.”
**Received an ARC from the publisher and voluntarily reviewed it. Also personally purchased a deluxe hardcover copy.**
Following the success of the Five Broken Blades series, Mai Corland has struck lightning again with Verity Guild, a romantic fantasy murder mystery that gives off Ancient Roman vibes.
The Republic of Pryor is made up of seven provinces, each with a representative known as a Senator. Together, these seven senators make up the Senate Council. Council rules dictate that the senators, their small entourage, the High Priestess of the Temple of Truth, and the Praetorian be sequestered for a week to conduct business in a mountain palace with only a handful of palace staff.
Kerasea Vestal is the High Priestess of the Temple of Truth. She’s ill-prepared for the position, finding herself wondering how her father would do things and if she’s making the right decisions. She carries a secret that, if discovered, could get her killed and possibly put the Republic in jeopardy. Torren Morvane is the Senate Investigator and Protector, known as the Praetorian. He has a strong sense of right and wrong, yet he seems to have his own secrets. These two have been enemies since childhood.
When a Senator is found dead, things get complicated. No one is allowed to enter or leave, meaning there is a killer amongst them. While Torren tries to investigate, his hands are tied as the remaining members limit his investigative scope. These enemies become reluctant allies as more bodies pile up and they vow to bring the killer to justice.
I love the characters of Kerasea and Torren. They're multi-layered and complicated. They have a strong attraction to each other, which leads to a slow-burn spicy romance.
Verity Guild is told from multiple points of view, and had me guessing until the very end. The story ends on a shocking cliffhanger. I am completely blown away and so glad there is at least one more book coming, which I need immediately, as I’m going to be thinking about this story for a long time.
~ Favorite Quotes ~
“Doing good doesn’t mean you have to be selfless. The weight of a good deed is measured alone.”
“We are all worthy of forgiveness when our hearts are pure.”
**Received an ARC from the publisher and voluntarily reviewed it. Also personally purchased a deluxe hardcover copy.**
May 5, 2026
3.5 stars!
Thank you Entangled for the ARC!
I'm LOVING that fantasy/murder mystery genre mash up thing that's been coming up the last year or so. Two of my favorite genres? YES PLEASE!
I think this is a great book for folks who are generally mystery readers looking to branch into fantasy, but not necessarily the other way around. There's very little world building and not a LOT of fantasy elements, which makes it very easy to read and incredibly accessible. But as someone who's primarily a fantasy reader, I wanted a lot more in that department--especially with 400 pages.
This also honestly dragged a lot for me in the middle of the book for about 150 pages. We weren't really getting any relationship progression, story progression seemed to go in circles, and nothing "new" was really happening. I wouldn't say I was BORED, but I was wanting to get to the point.
But Mai really knows how to write an ending, because despite that middle section, I am INVESTED in the story and want to know what happens in the next book. Like, immediately. I think if you go into this hoping for something similar to Five Broken Blades, you'll be a little disappointed. But if you want something that feels like Frieda wrote a romantasy, but with Mai's writing style, you'll have a good time!
Thank you Entangled for the ARC!
I'm LOVING that fantasy/murder mystery genre mash up thing that's been coming up the last year or so. Two of my favorite genres? YES PLEASE!
I think this is a great book for folks who are generally mystery readers looking to branch into fantasy, but not necessarily the other way around. There's very little world building and not a LOT of fantasy elements, which makes it very easy to read and incredibly accessible. But as someone who's primarily a fantasy reader, I wanted a lot more in that department--especially with 400 pages.
This also honestly dragged a lot for me in the middle of the book for about 150 pages. We weren't really getting any relationship progression, story progression seemed to go in circles, and nothing "new" was really happening. I wouldn't say I was BORED, but I was wanting to get to the point.
But Mai really knows how to write an ending, because despite that middle section, I am INVESTED in the story and want to know what happens in the next book. Like, immediately. I think if you go into this hoping for something similar to Five Broken Blades, you'll be a little disappointed. But if you want something that feels like Frieda wrote a romantasy, but with Mai's writing style, you'll have a good time!
May 5, 2026
Happy release day to Mai Corland and Verity Guild 🥳 // thank you so much to entangled for the ARC!
The air is tense and frosty between high priestess Kerasea and praetorian Torren. When the leader for the senat is brutally murdered and a temple blade is found at the scene, Torren immediately suspects Kerasea. However things changes when they’re snowed in at a mountain together with scheming senators and people are getting unalived one by one. When they can’t trust anyone, can they cooperate to find the killer?
This was so fun! It was the perfect blend between murder mystery and romance in a Ancient Rome setting with a hint of fantasy. What more could I wish for? I love a locked room murder mystery and the snowy setting makes it even better!
I really enjoyed how Mai worked the reluctant allies trope. With forced proximity and high tension, Torren and Kerasea had to trust and rely on each other. It made a delicious slow burn romance. Torren had a lingering hatred for Kerasea because of her part in judging his father to death. Seeing him opening up and getting to know a new side of her was great. I enjoyed his inner dialogue and the push and pull between them. Kerasea has her own secrets which makes it hard to trust other people. She’s the only remaining child of the power hungry king and harbors secret magic.
As a lover of Ancient Greece and Rome, I adored the setting. I wouldn’t say you notice it that much, but you have the political frame work, titles and background. It was fascinating and well written, awesome worldbuilding! It was honestly such a joy to read the book and I just had to read one chapter more, and more, and more. I enjoyed all aspects of the story but the cliffhanger? I thought this was a standalone, but that ending killed me! It can’t just end that way?! I need the sequel ASAP!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
The air is tense and frosty between high priestess Kerasea and praetorian Torren. When the leader for the senat is brutally murdered and a temple blade is found at the scene, Torren immediately suspects Kerasea. However things changes when they’re snowed in at a mountain together with scheming senators and people are getting unalived one by one. When they can’t trust anyone, can they cooperate to find the killer?
This was so fun! It was the perfect blend between murder mystery and romance in a Ancient Rome setting with a hint of fantasy. What more could I wish for? I love a locked room murder mystery and the snowy setting makes it even better!
I really enjoyed how Mai worked the reluctant allies trope. With forced proximity and high tension, Torren and Kerasea had to trust and rely on each other. It made a delicious slow burn romance. Torren had a lingering hatred for Kerasea because of her part in judging his father to death. Seeing him opening up and getting to know a new side of her was great. I enjoyed his inner dialogue and the push and pull between them. Kerasea has her own secrets which makes it hard to trust other people. She’s the only remaining child of the power hungry king and harbors secret magic.
As a lover of Ancient Greece and Rome, I adored the setting. I wouldn’t say you notice it that much, but you have the political frame work, titles and background. It was fascinating and well written, awesome worldbuilding! It was honestly such a joy to read the book and I just had to read one chapter more, and more, and more. I enjoyed all aspects of the story but the cliffhanger? I thought this was a standalone, but that ending killed me! It can’t just end that way?! I need the sequel ASAP!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
April 22, 2026
Review of Advanced copy received from NetGalley.
I really enjoyed this book! I felt immediately immersed into the world of complicated politics, faith and murder mystery. I thoroughly enjoyed the plot.
This was my first book by Mai Corland and it did not disappoint! The twist and turns of the story kept my interest peaked. The pacing was good and the characters were complex.
The romance wasn’t too heavy and added to the plot instead of diverting from it. Can’t wait to see how the story develops in the next book!
I really enjoyed this book! I felt immediately immersed into the world of complicated politics, faith and murder mystery. I thoroughly enjoyed the plot.
This was my first book by Mai Corland and it did not disappoint! The twist and turns of the story kept my interest peaked. The pacing was good and the characters were complex.
The romance wasn’t too heavy and added to the plot instead of diverting from it. Can’t wait to see how the story develops in the next book!
Want to Read
December 16, 2025Just impatiently waiting patiently for my next obsession. 🥲
May 4, 2026
Clue meets Agatha Christie’s And Then There Were None, but give it a Roman Empire aesthetic (without the history—yay!!) and a sexual tension that’s to die for. But maybe that’s taken a little too literally?
High Priestess Kerasea Vestal and the Praetorian, Torren Morvane, are locked in the Jubilee Palace for the conclave, but when the ruling senators and other guests locked in with them start falling left and right, they may be forced to join together to uncover the true murderer.
When I say I ate up this book, I’m not kidding. I was hooked from the start when I first noticed we were getting the High Priestess as one of our two POVs. Then this mysterious childhood enemy she’s forced to sit on the council with creates an immediate sense of curiosity because of their level of hostility. Once locked away at the palace, the murder mystery really begins to unfold and honestly it brought all the political intrigue and suspicion you would want, but also so much excitement as the reader. I truly couldn’t figure out who did any of the crimes and loved watching this whole story unfold.
I also love that although we get to watch the beginning of a relationship blooming as the result of a true enemies to lovers story, it never overtook the story. There was enough spice to satisfy the slow burn, but also didn’t feel forced or added in unnecessarily.
Each character is beautifully developed within a unique world. There are distinct and complex relationships with politics, religion, class/status, and magic, but I feel like we have really only scraped the surface in this first book and I can’t wait for the next one.
Kerasea and Torren will be your new obsession, just wait.
Thank you to Mai Corland and Entangled Publishing for this eARC. All opinions are my own.
Tropes:
Enemies to lovers
Murder mystery
Political intrigue
Slow burn
Forced proximity
Hidden magic
High Priestess Kerasea Vestal and the Praetorian, Torren Morvane, are locked in the Jubilee Palace for the conclave, but when the ruling senators and other guests locked in with them start falling left and right, they may be forced to join together to uncover the true murderer.
When I say I ate up this book, I’m not kidding. I was hooked from the start when I first noticed we were getting the High Priestess as one of our two POVs. Then this mysterious childhood enemy she’s forced to sit on the council with creates an immediate sense of curiosity because of their level of hostility. Once locked away at the palace, the murder mystery really begins to unfold and honestly it brought all the political intrigue and suspicion you would want, but also so much excitement as the reader. I truly couldn’t figure out who did any of the crimes and loved watching this whole story unfold.
I also love that although we get to watch the beginning of a relationship blooming as the result of a true enemies to lovers story, it never overtook the story. There was enough spice to satisfy the slow burn, but also didn’t feel forced or added in unnecessarily.
Each character is beautifully developed within a unique world. There are distinct and complex relationships with politics, religion, class/status, and magic, but I feel like we have really only scraped the surface in this first book and I can’t wait for the next one.
Kerasea and Torren will be your new obsession, just wait.
Thank you to Mai Corland and Entangled Publishing for this eARC. All opinions are my own.
Tropes:
Enemies to lovers
Murder mystery
Political intrigue
Slow burn
Forced proximity
Hidden magic
May 2, 2026
This read was absolutely fantastic!!
Kerasea Vestal has found herself as the High Priestess. After the death of her father she has taken on this role and all of the obligations that come with it. She is respected by her parishioners and the people of her temple, with one problem, she feels like an imposter. As a matter of fact, she has a secret that could cost her her life if anyone discovered it.
Torren Morvane has climbed and worked hard to become the Praetorian. His family was dealt a horrible blow when he was a child, forcing he and his mother into poverty. Torren has lived by the rules of honesty and respect with his position as Praetorian trying to right his family’s tarnished history.
Both Torren and Kerasea are headed to the conclave with the Republic’s Senators where all legal matters regarding the Republic will be decided. The only problem is before the meeting can even take place a Senator has been killed and all fingers point to the High Priestess Kerasea. As Kerasea maintains her innocence, Torren isn’t so sure, she is after all the one who falsely accused his father, which led to his death and his family’s ruin. Will someone get away with murder, will two lifetime enemies work together to solve a crime, or will more die because everyone is lying and all have something to gain from well-placed deaths?
This is an excellent thriller/suspense/romance. This book combined my favorite genres all into one book and had me wanting more with every page! This is a story about betrayal, politics, murder, alliances, family, friendships, lies, slow-burn romance, and so much more! Everything about this story was fantastic and a great time! I’m so looking forward to book 2!
Thank you to Entangled Publishing, LLC and NetGalley for the ARC copy in return for my honest review.
Kerasea Vestal has found herself as the High Priestess. After the death of her father she has taken on this role and all of the obligations that come with it. She is respected by her parishioners and the people of her temple, with one problem, she feels like an imposter. As a matter of fact, she has a secret that could cost her her life if anyone discovered it.
Torren Morvane has climbed and worked hard to become the Praetorian. His family was dealt a horrible blow when he was a child, forcing he and his mother into poverty. Torren has lived by the rules of honesty and respect with his position as Praetorian trying to right his family’s tarnished history.
Both Torren and Kerasea are headed to the conclave with the Republic’s Senators where all legal matters regarding the Republic will be decided. The only problem is before the meeting can even take place a Senator has been killed and all fingers point to the High Priestess Kerasea. As Kerasea maintains her innocence, Torren isn’t so sure, she is after all the one who falsely accused his father, which led to his death and his family’s ruin. Will someone get away with murder, will two lifetime enemies work together to solve a crime, or will more die because everyone is lying and all have something to gain from well-placed deaths?
This is an excellent thriller/suspense/romance. This book combined my favorite genres all into one book and had me wanting more with every page! This is a story about betrayal, politics, murder, alliances, family, friendships, lies, slow-burn romance, and so much more! Everything about this story was fantastic and a great time! I’m so looking forward to book 2!
Thank you to Entangled Publishing, LLC and NetGalley for the ARC copy in return for my honest review.
May 2, 2026
I really loved Mai Corland’s last series. When I saw Verity Guild, I originally was going off the aesthetic of the cover. It’s such a beautiful cover and then I looked at the synopsis and I was so intrigued because it’s a Romantasy that’s a locked in mystery and I haven’t read anything like that so I knew this was going to be an experience and I wasn’t wrong. We have our FMC. Kera, Priestess Kerasea Vetsal, and she has a secret. She has spent her life hiding that she is the last surviving heir of a bloodline that was completely slaughtered. And basically now she has to stay hidden. And then we have our MMC. And that is Preatorian Torren Morvane. And realistically, Torren doesn't trust her. But they have to end up working together to find the killer(s). Who killed the senate leader? And other keep dropping dead. This is very Roman inspired and I really loved that. I guess you could say this with my Roman empire. *queue the drums*. And the ending that was just mean. Now I’m gonna highly anticipate the next one and now we’ll just have to wait. If you really like murder mysteries and if you do like romantasy put those two together it had a baby,..it is this book. I would definitely give it a try. I already have my copy preordered!
Thank you to Red Tower|Entangled for the complimetnary copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Thank you to Red Tower|Entangled for the complimetnary copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 6, 2026
Verity Guild is a thrilling and suspenseful Roman-inspired romantasy, with a murder mystery, enemies to lovers, and forced proximity.
Kerasea Vestal has inherited the position of High Priestess. After her father’s sudden death, she feels unprepared for the role. But her position puts her on the Verity Guild, a governing body responsible for judging high treason. And puts her in close proximity to the Praetor, Torren Morvane, who is as lethal as he is handsome. The pair have never gotten along, and try to avoid each other as much as possible. But the Conclave with the senators is approaching, a week long legislative retreat, locked together with no one going in or out. But a series of mysterious murders leads to them both suspecting the other. They must work together to find the killer, or risk lose their own lives in the process.
I loved this one! It has great suspense with the murder mystery plot, and incredible romantic tension. This is absolute forced proximity, as everyone is locked together for a week with the murderer. Reminded me a bit of Clue x Early Roman Empire. There is also a magical component, political dynamics, power plays, and lots of secrets. Overall this was a fun read, kept me guessing throughout. I can’t wait for the next book!!
Thank you so much to Entangled Publishing/Red Tower and NetGalley for the advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
Kerasea Vestal has inherited the position of High Priestess. After her father’s sudden death, she feels unprepared for the role. But her position puts her on the Verity Guild, a governing body responsible for judging high treason. And puts her in close proximity to the Praetor, Torren Morvane, who is as lethal as he is handsome. The pair have never gotten along, and try to avoid each other as much as possible. But the Conclave with the senators is approaching, a week long legislative retreat, locked together with no one going in or out. But a series of mysterious murders leads to them both suspecting the other. They must work together to find the killer, or risk lose their own lives in the process.
I loved this one! It has great suspense with the murder mystery plot, and incredible romantic tension. This is absolute forced proximity, as everyone is locked together for a week with the murderer. Reminded me a bit of Clue x Early Roman Empire. There is also a magical component, political dynamics, power plays, and lots of secrets. Overall this was a fun read, kept me guessing throughout. I can’t wait for the next book!!
Thank you so much to Entangled Publishing/Red Tower and NetGalley for the advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
May 6, 2026
First, I'd love to say thank you to Red Tower for sending me a gifted copy of this book!
I am a huge fan of anything that Mai writes! I love how all of her stories give a mysterious vibe which constantly leaves me (as a reader) guessing who we can trust!
This book gives off Ancient Rome vibes, but make it a magical locked-room mystery. People are dropping like flies and it is crucial to find out who is behind all of it before there are none left.
Our FMC, Kerasea, is the High Priestess for the God of Truth, and thus has an important role during the conclave that is happening for a week in the former castle of the murdered king. No one is allowed in or out of the castle for the week, so how is it that people are being found murdered? On top of everything, none of the senators nor Kerasea can be questioned for any of the deaths.
Our MMC, Torren, is the Praetorian which makes him the highest investigator in the country, and even he isn't above the law to question those in power.
We are left on a cliff hanger, so I immediately need book 2! Can't wait to read what Mai writes next!
I am a huge fan of anything that Mai writes! I love how all of her stories give a mysterious vibe which constantly leaves me (as a reader) guessing who we can trust!
This book gives off Ancient Rome vibes, but make it a magical locked-room mystery. People are dropping like flies and it is crucial to find out who is behind all of it before there are none left.
Our FMC, Kerasea, is the High Priestess for the God of Truth, and thus has an important role during the conclave that is happening for a week in the former castle of the murdered king. No one is allowed in or out of the castle for the week, so how is it that people are being found murdered? On top of everything, none of the senators nor Kerasea can be questioned for any of the deaths.
Our MMC, Torren, is the Praetorian which makes him the highest investigator in the country, and even he isn't above the law to question those in power.
We are left on a cliff hanger, so I immediately need book 2! Can't wait to read what Mai writes next!
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