Foxes are to remain unseen, unheard, and untraceable.
To escape an arranged marriage, asthmatic seamstress Ariah Tyddle strikes a deal with the Queen of Haymel. In exchange for her freedom, she joins the Foxes— skilled individuals trained in espionage—and struggles to keep up in her new life.
Proving her worth, Ariah is assigned to get close to a rival prince. As she gains his trust and secrets, she unexpectedly, gains his heart. But love for a Fox is forbidden, and when Ariah's feelings for the prince become requited, she toys with a dangerous fate.
Meanwhile, Prince Iann, the youngest son of the Queen’s sworn enemy, arrives in Haymel with a secret. Iann is on a mission to end a feud and secure access to Farella Isle, where a mythical flower, said to grant immortality, lies hidden. But his growing feelings for Ariah threaten to derail everything.
In a world where secrets bloom like poison and love is the deadliest risk, Ariah and Iann must choose between each other or everything else.
Perfect for fans of LORE OF THE WILDS, REIGN, and INDIANA JONES, Foxes & Poisons is a whimsical tale of power, forbidden love, and unexpected adventures.
I received an arc to read & review so thank you for the opportunity Nancy & Adina! Tried to keep it spoiler free! On first meeting Iann on his ship it was giving the Prince from Barbie’s Island Princess movie (iykyk), even when he met back up with his family lol. His dad asking him to look for a magical flower gave me Tangled vibes. It took me a minute to get into it but once I did I easily went from 40% to 80% and then eventually done! Meeting the fifth Fox was 🤯I didn’t see that coming. Overall this was so good and I’d definitely recommend, now I’m a little mad that I’m going to have to wait to find out what happens!
This book had many aspects I enjoyed, specifically with its fairytale feel, but I wanted more. I felt like I would have liked it a lot more had the pacing been better, since I didn't get the time to actually care for these characters, though I still really liked Ariah. The "quest" portion also felt very rushed. The same goes for the romance, which needed more time to develop. When they confessed their love, I unfortunately wasn't moved.
Thank you to the author and her team for the chance to read the eARC!
when I saw this book was looking for ARC readers I looked at my ever growing TBR and signed up!
Foxes & Poisons was an adventurous but cozy read! There was no blood, gore, or triggers so it was a refreshing change of pace compared to the darker books I've been reading. The descriptions were amazing! The sights, smells, sounds, and any other sensory details were written beautifully. The foxes and their dynamic was my favorite part! I loved hearing their back stories and getting to know how they operate together!! Also, the cover is gorgeous!!
There was constant adventure and banter! And the cliffhanger ending definitely has me hooked and waiting for the next book!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
This was an engaging romantasy with tons of intrigue, chemistry, and a hefty dose of adventure. The espionage portion of the book truly held my focus; the world of the Foxes was so immersive and I couldn't want to know more. Despite her infamy and antagonistic label, Queen Cayleen was one of my favourite characters. Each and every scene with her was pure magic.
Chiles' engaging writing style combined with the staggering ending has me breathless for Book Two!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
So I already read this as a Beta and loved every second of it. I still loved every second of it and can't wait for the world to get to read it. Also yes I pre-ordered this book and can't wait to get it.
I received an ARC copy to read and review. The prologue alone had me hooked. The characters were relatable and refreshing. The story as a whole was an easy read but not boring in any way. The twist in the story was so unexpected. Adina Chiles is a story teller and amazing writer. I can’t wait for the next book!
Ah, I'm so happy to have received this ARC! I thoroughly enjoyed it! The fabulous world-building, descriptions, and unique tone fully immerses the reader in the world Chiles has created. (Although I would have liked to have seen more detailed outfit descriptions given Ariah's passion for fashion.)
Rarely do I find a book in which all of the characters who are supposed to be likeable . . . actually are. I admired Ariah's spirit and spunk, and I loved the dynamic between Deann and Chana. I hope we get to see their relationship develop in the next book!
My main issue with this book was the pacing. It seemed like everything happened really fast. For example, it didn't seem like enough time was given to Ariah's training. It was unclear just how long she spends in training before Iann's arrival, but it can't have been more than a few weeks. Wouldn't it take longer to prepare an elite-spy-in-training for such an important mission? This might have been a good spot for a time jump (maybe of 6 months, at least?) with summarial details of her training period provided in retrospect. Such a structure wouldn't have slowed the pacing at all.
I was also confused as to how long Iann spends at the Haymelian court. Right before he arrives, Queen Cayleen says the ball will be in a week, but at the ball Ariah thinks about "these past few weeks" with Iann. My eventual conclusion was that the story was supposed to be on the shorter timeline. Though Iann and Ariah's chemistry was apparent from the start, I would have preferred the longer timeline so that they'd have more time to get to know each other and have feelings develop. That would have just made it a little more realistic, in my opinion.
I can highly recommend this book despite any perceived shortcomings. The story is delightfully engaging, with adventure, romance, and unforseen twists. Also, can we talk about the positively stunning cover and character art?! I will absolutely be ordering the special edition!
Thank you to the author and her team for the opportunity to review this ARC. I'm looking forward to Book 2!
“I have nothing but family here, which in many ways is enough, until it’s not. There has always been a nagging feeling deep within. One I’ve ignored despite its growing intensity. I want more. I want to see beyond this village, beyond Mrs. Kimpol’s shop, beyond my parents home. I want experiences I’m so afraid of missing out on.”
I was lucky enough to be an arc reader for this book and I was not disappointed. I was hooked from the very first chapter and found myself really rooting for the main characters, whom both had their own ambitions and plot points outside of their romantic feelings for each other. I found the entire concept of the book to be really interesting and entertaining. However, It was very character driven and I wished we could’ve gotten a little more in depth into Ariah’s training to be a fox and the lessons she was having. On that very same note, I really liked all of the foxes. I found the group to be very interesting characters with their own complex personalities. I hope we get to dive a little bit deeper into their stories with the next book. I also feel like the author did an incredible job writing the sibling dynamics between Marcel, Deean, & Iann. They felt like real people to me and like I was reading about a real trio of brothers who have history, both bad and good. All in all, Foxes & Poisons was a very fun and fast paced fantasy novel and I will definitely be picking up the second one when it releases!
More quotes I enjoyed ~
“Her touch is like a rush of a thousand kisses.”
“Every story must be told, especially one as grand as this. No person can be left out or the story is incomplete.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Look at this gorgeous cover!! The pink, the fox, the flowers... Absolutely stunning. I was so excited to be a part of the cover reveal team a few months ago, and now to be able to read this beauty was a pleasure! Thank you Adina chiles for the ARC!
Ariah is a seamstress working in a small village. Unbeknownst to her, her parents owe a great debt to the queen who comes to collect thirty years later. Ariah must go to court and become a Fox, a special spy of the queen. Iann, a prince from a rival kingdom, is looking for a magical flower that is said to grant immortality. But to get it, he must first go through the Fox queen territory. That's where he meets Ariah, tasked to escort him during his stay—sparks fly. Before the queen can kill the prince and his brothers to avenge her family, they flee to the magical island to find the flower.
Favorite quotes out of context: 🦊 "I find the notion that going home is the best feeling to be nonsense. I propose that the greatest feeling is found in grand adventures." 🌸 "There is a little pride in knowing I'm the other fun brother, especially coming from the king of fun himself." 🦊 "She's forever stolen the most important part of me, and without her there is no me."
Tropes include: 🦊 Seamstress turned spy 🌸 Adventurer Prince 🦊 Ballrooms and ballgowns 🌸 Court intrigue 🦊 Magic 🌸 Spying 🦊 YA, closed door.
I am giving it 4 stars mainly because of the overall pacing. When I first started reading, the story moved slowly and then picked up so quickly that the female main character seemed to develop skills almost too fast to feel realistic for the timeline. That said, the characters were wonderful. The author spent so much time developing them and describing their clothing, skin, and hair with such vivid detail. It made it very easy to imagine every scene. I also loved Ariah's passion for sewing and flowers, although I wished her sewing skill had played a more unique role in the story.
The Black love story that unfolds in this book was one of my favorite parts. It was refreshing to read and felt very genuine and heartfelt.
There is a moment near the end that reminded me of the first season of Demon Slayer (Kimetsu no Yaiba). The author brings back a detail that was easy to forget and reveals it in a powerful way. It took me by surprise in the best way.
The book ends on a major cliffhanger. I did not enjoy the ending because it felt rushed, but I believe that is due to the story setting up what is coming in the second book.
Overall, this was a very entertaining read filled with exploration, flowers, sewing, intrigue, cozy moments, and an incredible cast of Black characters who brought this world to life. I also have a strong feeling that Ariah's niece will become very important in the future. You will not regret reading this book. It was a great experience.
Ariah is a talented young seamstress from the town of Foxhead, where every young man and woman is bound by arranged marriages. While these unions often serve family interests, they strip away the possibility of marrying for love. When Ariah’s day comes and a marriage is offered, she makes the bold choice to say no.
On the other side of the story, we meet Iann — the third prince, often overlooked next to his brothers. Marcel is the crown prince, Deean the mischievous middle child, but Iann is the trusted son: a traveller, a scholar, and a seeker of knowledge. When his father sends him on a secret and dangerous mission, his path is set to collide with Ariah’s.
Though Ariah and Iann are from rival kingdoms, their meeting — about 40% into the book — is worth the wait. Normally, I’m not a fan when the leads meet so late, but here it worked beautifully. Both characters are fully developed on their own, and when they finally cross paths, their connection feels natural and meaningful. They bring out the best in one another, and the romance blooms from a place of strength, not desperation.
I was hooked throughout. The world-building, the character depth, and the tension between duty and choice made this such a rich and engaging read. The pacing stumbled slightly in a couple of scenes that felt rushed to return to the main storyline, such as certain timelines of things and when they happen but overall, it didn’t take away from my enjoyment.
I want to thank the author for kindly selecting me to be a part of her ARC team and receive a copy of the first installment of this duology in exchange for an honest review.
Prince Iann is an explorer and the youngest in the line of the Saden royal family. His father sends him on a mission to find a fabled flower of immortality which requires him to enter the rival kingdom under the guise of seeking peace. His brothers and his crew join him on this mission.
Ariah is from a small town in Queen Cayleen’s kingdom. In the midst of speaking out against forced counsel selected marriage she discovers her parents used to be spies of the Queen and owe a debt which she now must pay on their behalf.
This story was beautifully written given the backstory and character development of the main characters and side characters. I did find the love story to be a bit quick but enjoyable. While I expected the expedition to get to the flower to be more tumultuous than it was I will never complain about happy endings.
While this story ties up nicely and makes you happy overall, the twist at the end was perfectly laid out and timed making me happy with the story and ready for the next installment.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I want to thank the author for kindly selecting me to be a part of her ARC team and receive a copy of the first installment of this duology in exchange for an honest review.
Prince Iann is an explorer and the youngest in the line of the Saden royal family. His father sends him on a mission to find a fabled flower of immortality which requires him to enter the rival kingdom under the guise of seeking peace. His brothers and his crew join him on this mission.
Ariah is from a small town in Queen Cayleen’s kingdom. In the midst of speaking out against forced counsel selected marriage she discovers her parents used to be spies of the Queen and owe a debt which she now must pay on their behalf.
This story was beautifully written given the backstory and character development of the main characters and side characters. I did find the love story to be a bit quick but enjoyable. While I expected the expedition to get to the flower to be more tumultuous than it was I will never complain about happy endings.
While this story ties up nicely and makes you happy overall, the twist at the end was perfectly laid out and timed making me happy with the story and ready for the next installment.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
It took me a little while to really settle into this story, but once I did, I found the concept genuinely intriguing. The world building has a cool flair, and the characters were definitely the highlight for me. I actually wish the plot had been developed just a touch more, simply because the ideas introduced were so interesting that I wanted to see them explored further.
One of my favourite aspects was the character dynamics as there’s a great mix of friendships, sibling interactions, and of course the growing connection between Ariah and Iann. I love it when a fantasy romance doesn’t revolve solely around the main couple, and this book gives plenty of space for the supporting characters. Ariah and Iann’s relationship is sweet without overwhelming the story, and Ariah herself is such a determined, witty FMC that she makes the journey even more enjoyable.
In terms of pacing, there were moments that felt a bit uneven. Some scenes felt rushed while others lingered longer than necessary. It wasn’t a major issue, but a slightly more balanced rhythm would have elevated the narrative even further.
Overall, I enjoyed the story and the characters, and I’m genuinely intrigued to see how everything will wrap up in the conclusion!
Thank you to Adina Chiles for providing me an ARC through Bookfunnel so that I can give an honest review.
I liked the premise of this book- a lot of mystery and intrigue with a dash a romance. The reality was there was more romance than mystery to the plot which did work well if you prefer romance! Although this book is adult it read more like a YA novel, perfect for fans of Six Of Crows with more romance and royals. The magical and social hierarchies were interesting and the concept of state arranged marriages could have been a very interesting route. The loyalty and respect of the foxes (elite Queensguards) was a highlight for me, although I was left wondering why Ariah was picked and made to be one. The opening of the novel was a little heavy handed with the magical expose but when the plot and romance picked up in the second half it vastly improved. Still, the character of Ariah seemed a little improbable and I disagreed with some of her decisions as she seemed immature for her age (perhaps what have this book a YA feel). The textual difference between her and the love interest Iann worked quite well, as he was well liked and affable (and not particularly princely) and gave this a slight fairytale feel, and I thought his character improved when the mystery plot picked up and his/ the kingdoms motives were made clear. The were some good twists and turns and the ending did surprise me! I thought this was a good book but I felt the characters and plot were a bit simple and more inclined to the YA genre! Hopefully some of this can be expanded on in the next book in the series!
Foxes and Poisons was such a refreshing fantasy read, full of danger, intrigue, and just the right touch of romance. From the very beginning, I was pulled into Adina Chiles’ world—dark, vivid, and full of secrets that kept me guessing with every chapter.
The story has a perfect mix of political tension and personal stakes. I loved how the characters weren’t one-dimensional; they’re messy, layered, and you’re never quite sure who you can trust. The heroine especially stood out to me—strong, clever, and determined, yet still vulnerable in a way that made her so easy to root for.
What I really enjoyed was the pacing. Every chapter revealed something new, whether it was a twist, a betrayal, or a moment that tugged at my heart. The romance was slow-burning, woven naturally into the plot without overpowering the danger and action.
Adina Chiles’ writing is lush but easy to fall into. She paints the world so well that you can almost feel the tension in the air and the poison at your throat.
If you’re a fan of YA fantasy with political intrigue, strong female leads, and a story that keeps you hooked until the end, Foxes and Poisons needs to be on your TBR.
I thoroughly enjoyed Foxes & Poisons by Adina Chiles! It was such a fun and cozy read.
It is the first book in a duology and sets up the story amazingly!
I enjoyed reading both POVs in this story and didn't find myself wanting to read one more than the other.
The main FMC, Ariah, is an asthmatic seamstress turned spy and I love her. The MMC, Iann, is a cinnamon roll with a sense of duty.
I loved the world-building and the "Foxes" (the queen's spies). And the slow burn between Ariah and Iann is one of my favourite slow burns I've read in a minute!
The pacing is what makes this not a 5 ⭐ read, it starts super slow and ends really quickly.
If you enjoy shows like Reign or Queen Charlotte or you're looking for a romance with a slice of fantasy, I think you'll really enjoy Foxes and Poisons!
I am so excited to see where the story progresses going into the second book!
Thank you so much Adina for an ARC copy of Foxes and Poisons to read and review! 💜
Really enjoyed this - it has a lovely original plot with a kind of cosy feel despite the themes of spying and poisons.
The MCs were super cute - no morally grey lovers here! - and their attraction and initial flirting felt really genuine and sweet. There are no spicy scenes, with the most we see being some neck kisses, and it works really well because you feel more of a romantic connection between them (although perhaps the second book will be spicier?).
The storyline was interesting without being too complex, and the characters all felt like they drove the plot forward in their own ways. Deean was probably my favourite, but I do love a cheeky roguish man. I felt like the sibling interactions both between the brothers and between Ariah and her sister felt so realistic and I loved that.
I’ll admit that I sort of saw the twist coming in that I had an inkling that the character was a bit dodgy, but I didn’t foresee how it would play out except that they’d be betrayed by them somehow.
The ending was nicely executed - leaves you wanting to know what happens next without being too overly dramatic (which can be common in cliffhangers!).
Really looking forward to the next one so I can read more of Adina’s wonderful writing!
This book had me in it's grip from the start. A beautiful world full of depth and character. Adina has created something special here.
Ariah has been taken by her queen to repay her parent's debt from their past. A past she knew nothing about. Meanwhile, Iann, third son of a king, has been tasked with a dangerous quest by his father.
These two should have never met, living in different & quarrelling countries but meet they do and there the true adventure begins.
Full of intrigue and yes some romance, the connection beween Ariah & Iann was there right from the beginning. The supporting characters only add to the story and you come to care for them, even if a couple are not 100% likable when you first meet. The reveal towards the end was well delivered and not something I saw coming. In fact I was looking in a completely different way. So well done for surprising me. As part of a duology, this one is left one a smallish cliff hanger so I am eagerly awaiting the second book, 'Swans & Stardust' due out next year, to see what happens to all of our characters. Well done Adina on a fun book. 4 stars from me.
Bartering life. Payments of debts. Cross kingdom betrayal. Enchanted adventure. Foxes & Poisons was such an invigorating read! Receiving an ARC for this book is such a blessing and a curse! A blessing because I got to read such an amazing literary work! But a curse because now I have a slightly longer wait to find out the conclusion to this tale!
Following Ariah on such a crazy journey from rejecting her preplanned life in her small village to being thrown into another predetermined arrangement for the Crown to forsaking it all! Itching that need for adventure by embarking on a journey only supported by a fable, a childhood story that no one could prove to be true! With twists and turns along her path, you see Ariah’s wit and cunningness shine throughout the story.
We also follow Iann, third prince of Saden. With a heart for adventure, his father sends him on the craziest, life-changing, adventure of them all. With lies deep enough to bury him alive, Iann must navigate enemy territory while seeking his prize: a mythical flower. Unsure it even exists, Iann risks his life, as well as the lives of many others to once and for all prove whether or not this fable is true.
Thanks to Adina & team for an early copy of Foxes & Poisons 🫶🏾
Foxes and Poisons is a new adult romantic fantasy that follows Ariah, who refuses an arranged marriage and somehow ends up spying for the Queen. Honestly, it’s a great choice if you’re looking for a fun & easy step into fantasy.
Full transparency, the first 100 pages were a bit of a challenge for me. Sometimes the description was a little too much and in other parts, it felt like not enough, which made the pacing feel a bit off. The lead up to the action was exciting & the plot twist was fun but when we finally got to the action itself, it all wrapped up a bit too quickly and smoothly for my liking. I would’ve loved to see the characters work for it a bit more you know?
I love a no nonsense FMC and Ariah gives exactly that. The chemistry between her and our MMC, Iaan was cute. Both characters are written in a way that makes it very easy to root for them.
Overall, the book lays a solid foundation and I’m looking forward to seeing how it all wraps up in book 2.
Ariah Tyddle refuses an arranged marriage from her small town's council, but her horizons soon broaden beyond Foxhead! She is ensnared into the Queen of Haymel's service as a spy.
Ariah is amazing, so strong-willed and independent. I love her friendship with Luna, and her strong family ties. Iann is the perfect balance, quiet, kind and honest. Their forbidden romance is very wholesome. I absolutely love characters with good communication, which all of these guys certainly do!
It goes from a small town fantasy, to court espionage, to an adventuring party. Foxes and Poisons has everything a fantasy reader could want.
Romance is very PG and wholesome. No spice.
Also some amazing art & the cute map!! I'm used to reading books way after their release date, so now having to wait for book 2 when book 1 hasn't even been released, is going to feel like forever! Very excited, thank you Adina Chiles for writing such a fantastic book, it's been a pleasure to read.
I received an ARC of this book. I didn’t have really any expectations going into the book and that was probably a good thing. I’m still left a little confused by the whole thing.
The story is told dual POV, and sometimes that made the book more disjointed, like I wasn’t sure where we were timeline-wise when switching perspectives. Also, the storyline kind of jumped all over the place while staying centered around finding the island/flower. The story kind of dragged at times, and at others it flew by.
I can’t say I ever really developed any strong feelings for/about any of the characters and I still feel like we are missing so much back story to help flesh out the importance of certain things.
The twist was hinted at in a way, but also a little unexpected. The final 1/4 of the book felt different from the first 75%.
It does end on a cliffhanger and I’m undecided at this point whether or not I want to continue the series. This book was fine, but it wasn’t one that gripped me in a chokehold where I will be constantly thinking about it and wondering when the next book comes out.
Foxes & Poisons by Adina Chiles is a refreshingly original romantic fantasy that expertly blends intrigue, magic, and slow-burning romance. The story follows Ariah, a seamstress thrust into a dangerous world of espionage and power struggles, and her transformation is both compelling and believable. Chiles’ writing is clear and immersive, drawing readers easily into the richly developed world and its complex characters.The plot is exciting and layered with political tension and mysteries that keep you turning pages. The romance is naturally woven in, with witty banter and heartfelt moments adding depth without overshadowing the adventure.While the pacing occasionally slows to develop character relationships, it strengthens the emotional impact and builds anticipation. Overall, Foxes & Poisons delivers a satisfying reading experience with vivid settings and well-crafted storytelling. It earns a solid four stars and is highly recommended for fans of romantic fantasy looking for something fresh and engaging.
I don’t even have the words but WOW!!!!! I am blown away by this book. I received the arc of Foxes and Poisons in exchange for an honest review. THIS IS THE BEST NEW FANTASY BOOK!
This was such a refreshing fantasy world. Oh my goodness I loved it so much.
Ariah is such a great FMC-I love her background as a seamstress. I thought that was so unique and wonderful. She is strong and fights for what’s right-giving up her life to protect her family. Ariah is strong willed and will not let others bully her.
Iann is a great MMC. A Prince of Saden, going on adventures looking for a mythical flower that grants immortality.
The chemistry between Ariah and Iann was so well written. I squealed and giggled while they were getting closer and falling more in love ♥️♥️
The world building was amazing. It was descriptive and intentional. I loved how it was not over the top complicated but still imaginative. Some fantasy worlds are so insane and I can’t follow along but this was not the case with Foxes and Poisons.
Do yourself a favour and check out this book November 13!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
"Foxes & Poisons" by Adina Chiles is an adventure book set in the land of Ladora.
Synopsis: Ariah is the newest member of Queen Cayleen’s Foxes. What ever the Queen asks, they do her bidding. Ariah’s first job is to find out the real reason King Marcel II of Saden had decided to make peace with Haymel. The king has sent two sons in his place, Prince Marcel and Prince Iann.
Prince Iann has been tasked with locating the Ivian Flower. He must adventure into enemy territory to find this legendary flower. When Iann arrives at Haymel he gets more than he bargained for.
Thoughts: This book has been living rent free in my mind since I read it as a beta reader. I feel so lucky to read it again as an ARC read.
I love Ariah’s passion for sewing, it was such a refreshing hobby for a main character. Ariah and Iann are so cute together. I just can’t get enough of them.
Deean, the middle son of King Marcel II, is definitely my favorite character. He just gets up to so much mischief.
I would definitely recommend this book for anyone looking for a great adventure with some romance.
I am so absolutely incredibly unwell after that ending. I'm in awe of Adina and her characters and her writing.
I was immediately hooked on the story and Ariah is the strong willed FMC that I love to read about. She had more courage in her pinky toe than half the royalty in the book! I was cheering her on every single page.
Prince Iann, Prince Iann, Prince Iann. He is so sweet, such a golden retriever and a protective one at that. The tension and banter and SWEETNESS between the two of them had me actually swooning.
If you like Reign meets Bridgerton meets a unique magical system, Foxes & Poisons will have you in love!
I'm both terrified and SO READY for book 2!! Immediately adding to my shelves.
Thank you Adina Chiles for my advance reader copy! This is my honest and unbiased review.
To escape an arranged marriage Ariah is forced to join the Queens “Foxes”, where she is to spy on the rival kingdom. Can she guard her kingdom while also guarding her heart? Will she fall in love with the enemy?
This book was fast paced and an adventure form the first chapter. I loved how Ariah knew what she wanted and was willing to defy the odds to get it!
The chemistry between Iaan and Ariah was instant there was always a gravitational attraction.
This book had me wanting so much more, especially after the cliffhanger we ended up with! I’m excited to see where the next book goes.
Thank you for the opportunity to read and review this book! Im excited for publication day so others can experience the journey like I did!
Thanks to the author for this arc in exchange for an honest review.
I had fun reading this story. I was very much interested in Ariah's life and her connection to Iann. I loved that Ariah was a strong female lead while also handling her asthma. Iann and his closeness with his brother Deann in particular made his POV interesting to read. I enjoyed reading about the foxes and their background stories. I likes the focus on foxes as well as the people described as the queen's foxes.
Some parts felt less convincing than other parts though. Especially some of the magic seemed to be based on little to no rules for its magic system so it felt a bit like a cop out at times.
Towards the end I was really not convinced whether or not there would be a plot twist after all. It did end in a cliffhanger but this was very close to the end. I still very much enjoyed the story overall and am curious for how this continues.