The Burning Crown

The Unforgiven #2

by Jayne Castel

Will she trust the man who betrayed her … or watch her world fall into darkness?

Enemies-to-lovers. Slow-burn steam and a morally grey hero you’ll never forget. Celtic mythology meets Frog Prince vibes. The epic conclusion to a Romantasy duology perfect for fans of LJ Andrews and Rachel Gillig.

A year ago, Lara's husband double-crossed her and stole half her kingdom. Now her former overkings circle like hungry wolves at her borders.

But a far greater threat has awakened.

The Shattered Crown—a broken stone circle in the north—has become a conduit for chaos. The veil between worlds is tearing apart, unleashing vengeful spirits upon the mortal realm. The Slew and other nightmares bent on destruction now hunt her people.

Only an impossible alliance between three sworn enemies can seal the breach and stop the rising tide of evil.

But can a betrayed queen, a treacherous half-blood, and the enigmatic Raven Queen set aside their hatred to save both human and fae … or will Albia burn?

From best-selling author Jayne Castel comes a Romantic Fantasy duology set in the same world as The Enforcer’s Bride, where druids, mortals, and Fae collide with Celtic myth. If you love stories with The Frog Prince vibes, revenge, and redemption—and if you like fierce heroines, and feral and flawed heroes—you won’t be able to put down this addictive Romantasy.


Note: THE BURNING CROWN is Book Two of a duology (with a storyline that spans both novels) that begins with THE QUEEN AND THE HALF-BLOOD. It's not recommended to dive into this story without reading Book One first.

Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Fae

398 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 18, 2025

About the author

Multi-award-winning author Jayne Castel writes epic Historical and Fantasy Romance. Her vibrant characters, richly researched historical settings and action-packed adventure romance transport readers to forgotten times and imaginary worlds.

Jayne is the author of a number of best-selling series. In love with all things Scottish, she writes romances set in both Dark Ages and Medieval Scotland.

When she's not writing, Jayne is reading (and re-reading) her favorite authors, cooking Italian feasts, and going on long walks with her husband. She's from New Zealand, but now lives in Edinburgh, Scotland.

Sign up to Jayne's newsletter and get a free bundle of short stories! https://www.jaynecastel.com/

Jayne loves to hear from her readers - email her at: contact@jaynecastel.com

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Reviews

[MyRomanceHasNoLimits · Rating 5 out of 5]

To describe Lara, our High Queen
“Let ravens carry off my darkest deeds,
Let cool burn wash my bloodied hands.
I am the spring that follows winter.
The seed of hope in barren lands.”

To describe Alar, our grovelling warrior
“My choices carved this long road,
But I’m more than their sum.
My shadows do not own me-
They show me how far I’ve come.”

The Burning Crown is the second book of the duology Unforgiven. But we met Lara in the previous duology, The Enforcer's Bride.

After the cliff of the cliffhangers, I was surprised to start this book not with a broken Queen, but a stronger one. I fell even more in love with Lara just in the first pages. The author slowly raised an insecure woman into a confident and mature queen through the relationships she nurtures and the struggles she faces.
And in the middle of Lara’s and Alar’s struggle to stay apart (for different reasons), the cost of using magic and Celtic creatures 😨 threatens to destroy it all.
This is not a book you rush through, is to be savoured. Each word and phrase sends you to a magical Scotland where the old tales come to life to steal old and young to the spirit world. You go from castles to crannog loch dwellings in the water with the constant threat of losing your favourite characters to inner or outer shadows. The stakes are high, but so are the bounds that holds fast Lara and Alar to the found family they built.

But don’t think this book is sweet. Alar’s passion will leave you breathless, a warning 🥵

I’ve been waiting for this book, to throw me completely into a world where book slumps don’t exist. But now I’ve finished it and need more. Good thing the author has promised more ;)
To all that say that romantic relationships, friendships and family bounds don’t go hand in hand with mythology and fantasy you have not read Jayne Castel’s fantasy romance books.

3 🍆
5 ⭐

Review of advance copy received from Author

[Rose Seals · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great story in this series. Very well written but does have some triggers, please read these warnings. This is the second story in this series. Alar and Lara are both at a stand still since book one. Lara is the High Queen but has the issue of being a fire wielder but has not told many people but Alar has been. She receives a visit from the Raven Queen Mor, that surprises her. Mor tells her of a widening in the opening at the Shattered Crown that is letting in the spirits onto their lands. Those spirits are causing trouble with everyone and they need to be stopped. Mor says that they need to head to the opening and form a bound to seal it. Mor states she is the weaver, Lara is the fire wielder and Alar is the bridge. Has lots of action, trust, lies and adventure to keep you turning the pages and wanting more. Would strongly recommend to everyone this book and the series.

I received this story and leave this unbiased, honest review.

[Chere Gruver · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a beautiful ending to The Unforgiven!

In this second part of The Unforgiven Duology, the Raven Queen, Mor actually comes to Lara. Everyone has noticed that there are more spirits out and about now. Mor proposes that Lara and the Shee work together to close the rift allowing this, however, they will also need Alar, Lara’s estranged husband. The one who betrayed her at the end of The Queen and the Half-Blood. I have always loved medieval tales and this one does not disappoint! The story is so well-written. There is plenty of action and even more emotions, especially between Alar and Lara. Once I started reading this, it was very hard to stop. I really do enjoy the blending of the Celtic mythos into all of Jayne Castel’s stories.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Hannah B · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Burning Crown was a thrilling read that kept me fully engaged and eagerly turning its pages. I received an ARC of this book and I am happy to review it with my own thoughts.

Jayne Castel is a talented storyteller, and the world she brought to life in this book was absolutely stunning. I love how steeped her world building is in old Gaelic mythology and creatures. I’ve really enjoyed her step into fantasy with this new series, and it’s without a doubt my new favorite of hers!

Lara is still my favorite character in these books, and the poor thing is really going through it! I appreciate how she took the hurt and anger from Alar’s betrayal and channeled it into honing her skills in battle and leadership. I was glad to see she didn’t fall apart from his loss, and instead used it as the fuel she needed to continually improve herself.

Alar and Lara’s reconciliation was the slow burn I expected. I did still enjoy him as a character, but it felt like he’d really lost his spark and vibrancy after betraying Lara. This made it easy to believe him to be sincerely weighed down by regret, however, it definitely dampened the fun his character brought to the first book.

(This paragraph contains spoilers for the ending) My one complaint, would be the time skip at the end of the story. Lara forgiving Alar was much easier done out in the wilderness away from her people at court. But I really thought it would be impossible for her to bring back the husband who betrayed her, weakened her reign, and killed her people based on the power structures shown in her court in the first book. Her court advisors and under kings seemed to have a loud voice that she had to be careful of choosing when not to heed, so I really thought her bringing Alar back would be its own major fight. But that was just entirely skipped, and so having an epilogue of them happily at her castle didn’t feel like it had been properly earned. Well quite frankly, it felt jarringly impossible. I also didn’t like the too convenient plot contrivance of the wulver’s and traitor clans turning on each other and wiping each other out, which happened off page and out of no where. And another aspect that was just dropped, was her people’s growing fear of her being a fire wielder. Which was also just disappeared at the end of the book, and seemingly they had none of the issues upon her return that were hinted at in the beginning of the story. So while the book was very enjoyable, and the reconciliation between lovers felt right, the actual ending at her castle felt very rushed and unearned. Perhaps it would have been better to either flesh out what happened after their journey and not do a time skip and have a longer book. Another option would be to end the book after the journey, and release a short story of their return home, the wulver’s demise, and the struggles of bringing a huge traitor back to the capital city to still be king consort. Honestly, the trials one might assume would stem from those events could probably be their own full sized book. (End spoilers)

Another aspect of this book I enjoyed was the presence of the shee on the journey through the wild lands. I am really happy to hear there will be more books set in this world, and I am hopeful the new leads will come from either the shree or the sisters we came to know throughout this story.

I highly recommend The Burning Crown as a captivating read full of emotion and enchantment. I eagerly await the announcement for the next book in the series!

[Dyam · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you, Jayne Castle, for the ARC. Just finished The Burning Crown, and it was such a captivating book that I couldn't put it down until I finished it last week-end.(It is highly recommended to read the first book, The Queen and the Half-Blood, before starting The Burning Crown, as the storyline spans both novels. I started with the Burning Crown but I had to stop and read The Queen and the Half-Blood first, in order to form a better idea of the setting, characters and plot).
If you love a deft blend of futuristic intrigue and small-town warmth, this one's for you. Castle weaves a lush, imaginative world with sharp world-building, sparkling tech, and just the right amount of danger to keep you turning the pages. Power dynamics, class distinctions, and loyalties influence character choices and plot twists.
The setting is a vividly imagined backdrop—likely a frontier or resort world with distinct landscapes (coastal regions, deserts, or rugged highlands) that shape daily life, trade, and travel. Expect immersive sensory details of climate, light, and terrain-they make you breath, see and feel the story-an unique experience .
I loved how the polished near-future techscape blends practical gadgets with social rituals. Transportation hubs, communication systems, and automated services create a seamless, lived-in texture. Technology often interlaces with romance elements, adding convenience and tension.
The characters feel real and relatable, with chemistry that sizzles without overwhelming the plot. The central romantic leads are crafted with chemistry and agency. They’re driven by personal goals, past traumas, and a desire for belonging (expect a blend of resilience, vulnerability, and quick-witted repartee that reveals both tenderness and fire). The relationship is built on respectful flirtation, sharp dialogue, and shared vulnerabilities. Their interactions progress from trust-building moments to emotionally charged, intimate scenes that feel earned. Both main characters confront inner fears and ego limits, pushing them toward humility, compromise, and better understanding of themselves and each other. A well-rendered web of allies and rivals enriches the story. Friends and secondary characters often mirror or challenge the protagonists providing contrasting viewpoints, humor, and stakes, helping to illuminate the main characters’ choices and values.
The central mystery unfolds at a steady pace, balancing suspense with tender, character-driven moments. The pacing is well-timed, giving you twists that feel earned rather than gimmicky.
What stood out most: the blend of wit, emotional depth, and a sense of belonging in a vivid, immersive setting. The writing is smooth and immersive, making it easy to lose track of time—perfect for a binge session or a cozy weekend read.
If you’re seeking a smart, feel-good sci-fi romance with heart, The Burning Crown is worth a read. Highly recommended for fans of imaginative worlds and love stories that linger after the last page.
#BookReview #TheBurningCrown #JayneCastel #Romantasy #SciFiRomance #BookTok #CelticFantasy #EnemiesToLovers #HistoricalRomance #TheUnforgivenDuology
The Burning Crown

[Angela Brannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Burning Crown is the second book in The Unforgiven duology by Jayne Castel. Picking up a year after the events of The Queen and The Half Blood, High Queen Lara is trying to salvage the remains of her kingdom. In the first book, the Shee had attacked from their realm, trying to take over the human world. Then, an alliance Lara made by marrying Alar, the leader of the Wulvers, in order to gain his army and defeat the Shee had turned on her. Alar betrayed her and seized part of her kingdom for himself at the heartbreaking end of the first story.

Now, a year later, faced with enemies on two fronts and her own overkings rebelling, Lara's reign seems doomed to failure. The crops are failing and the spirits that had begun terrorizing the realm have multiplied and increased their attacks. When the Shee queen Mor shows up with a proposal to seal the spirit realm and save the world, Lara is receptive until Mor reveals that it requires cooperating with Alar, her estranged husband and sworn enemy. Can she postpone her thirst for revenge long enough to save the world?

This book takes off from there and never lets go! Lara and Alar must travel across the kingdom together with the Shee queen for weeks on end without the three enemies killing each other. What a fun journey fraught with perils and supernatural hazards galore. Jayne Castel's mastery of worldbuilding shines as I felt fully immersed in the world Lara and Alar inhabit. There are so many details drawn from Celtic mythology. I absolutely loved the corpse candles!

Lara and Alar are one of my favorite couples and I was destroyed when he betrayed her in the first book. The road back to their HEA is bittersweet and filled with betrayals, hatred and simmering attraction. Watching Lara swing between wanting so stab Alar in the back or rip his clothes off was just too much fun! I definitely recommend this book to all romantasy fans! Kudos to Jayne Castel for another riveting romance!!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Luminea · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was EVERYTHING! Everything I hoped to see between Lara and Alar, and everything I love about the hauntingly beautiful world of Albia.

This conclusion to The Unforgiven duology takes our characters into the dangerous northern mountains of the uplands, where Jayne Castel's deeply atmospheric writing paints a vivid picture of this eerie but enchanting landscape. I could visualize the world so clearly, as well as the numerous creatures and spirits from Scottish folklore that inhabit Albia.

The pacing of the story was just right, with plenty of battles and action scenes along the way, but also opportunities for tender moments and introspection. Themes of trust, betrayal, redemption, and forgiveness are deeply woven throughout the story, not only between Lara and Alar but among other families as well as the Marav, Shee, and Wulver races. The characters don't just fight malevolent spirits in the course of the journey; they also battle their own worst fears and failures, and struggle with self-forgiveness.

As Lara travels north with her small group of advisors and guards, there is a wonderful sense of found family and closeness that evolves among them, and I appreciated getting to know some of these secondary characters a little better. There are also some developments with Alar's family that I did not expect and found deeply moving. The character arcs were extremely well done and felt very authentic.

There was a beautiful and touching poem in the Epilogue that I absolutely loved, which had many powerful lines, such as: "My shadows do not own me— They show me how far I’ve come.” The book deeply resounds with themes of facing the dark with courage, finding the light within, and keeping the spark of hope alive.

The Burning Crown is my favourite book about Albia so far, and I cannot wait to read more stories by Jayne Castel set in this enchanting world! I really love this cast of characters and am excited to see their journey continue.

[Alison · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Burning Crown
The Unforgiven Book #2
Jayne Castel
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

A year ago, Laura's husband double crossed her and stole half of her Kingdom. Her former overkings are out for blood and her crown, circling like hungry wolves at her borders.

The Shattered Crown is a broken stone circle in the north, but due to a rip in the veil it has become a conduit for chaos. As the veil continues to tear it unleashes vengeful spirits upon the mortal realm that make grown men tremble. Now the Slew and other nightmares that are bent on destruction hunt and take her people's lives and only an impossible alliance between three sworn enemies can seal the breach and stop the rising tide of evil.

But can a Queen that has been betrayed, a half-blood, and the Raven Queen set aside their hatred to save both human and fae life alike? Or will Albia burn and become nothing but a distant memory?

Jayne Castel is absolutely brilliant. This book had hooked me from the get go and drew me in like a moth to flame. You never knew what would happen next. One minute the Queen's party would be attacked by some kind of evil fae and the next they were left panting for breath with their very lives. I can't say much more than this because I don't want to ruin the book for anyone else, but I will say this. You have to read the first book to fully understand this one, but it's definitely worth it. I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it to like minded readers everywhere.

[Jaclyn B. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Following Alar's bitter betrayal, Lara is left with her kingdom more divided than ever. For refusing more traditional offers of marriage, and her choice to support the Wulvers, her Overkings have broken off as well. With her capital one of her last refuges, Lara struggles to keep the loyalty of those who still answer her call.

When the elements turn more brutal than ever, the Slew attack more savagely, with other nightmares waiting in the wings. When Maeve, Queen of the Shee, arrives with an offer of alliance, Lara is left to wonder if this new threat is even worse than first imagined.

With her fire magic as one of her final strengths, it links her to The Shattered Crown as well. The point where the veil between worlds is breaking, created by Lara's ancestors and leaving her as the key to close it before it's too late.

With an almost impossible task and an unlikely alliance to consider, there's one more requirement. Someone they need to stand as a link between Lara and Maeve - a half-blood. If she can avoid killing him on sight, can Lara possibly trust Alar long enough to save her kingdom?

I continue to be enthralled by Jayne Castel's story telling. Her fantasy world of Albia, based in Scottish mythology, is a world I'm always happy to step into. Left with a painful separation, I was not only hoping that Alar and Lara would be able to find their way back to each other but wondering if it would be possible. Yearning, forgiveness, incredible tension and new enemies and friends making their plays. I was here for it all.

I received an ARC from BookSirens and the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. All opinions are my own.

[Lynn P · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Burning Crown by Jayne Castel is the second book in The Unforgiven duology. This is the continuing story of Queen Lara and her husband, Alar. Lara is still dealing with the heart breaking betrayal of Alar. With the increase of vengeful spirits and other creatures who are causing problems and death to her people, Lara must find a solution. The Raven queen, an enemy, offers a solution that includes Alar. Can the three set aside their enmity and combine to solve this increasing problem?

Jayne Castel has written a wonderful story creating characters that are multidimensional. The reader can see both sides of the problems Alar faces and can understand his thought process. How can he accept his betrayal to Lara? Can he leave the Wulver pack, his brothers of the heart?

As with all of Jayne Castel’s books, there is an intriguing journey with hatred, betrayal, action, war and possibly love renewed. She even tries to educate the reader with facts from the era. I really enjoy the Author’s Note and Glossary section too.

I highly recommend immersing yourself in Albia and the characters in The Burning Crown.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Ann Gonzalez · Rating 5 out of 5]

This author is a creative genius. You have to read book one first, that is an absolute must. From page one the book is riveting. The entire story is well-written and captivating. It flows at a fact pace and makes it hard to put down. The characters have a depth to them that make them life-like. Book two is full of challenges as enemies must work together to save Albia. It is a slow burn as Lara and her husband Alar have became enemies and not seen one another in a year since his betrayal, but it heats up a few times. This book had quite a few surprising parts and I will miss the main and side characters.
I am not normally a fantasy or romantasy reader, but I took my chances because Jayne Castel's other books are fabulous. I also recommend her other romantasy, The Enforcer's Bride Duology and all her other books.

*** This book has violence, graphic sex, discrimination/racism, and coarse language.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lilith's_Library_ · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Burning Crown delivers an intoxicating blend of dark fantasy, steamy tension, and raw emotional stakes — a Romantasy that burns as brightly as its title. Jayne Castel plunges readers into a world where betrayal cuts deep, enemies might become the only kind of salvation, and the line between revenge and desire blurs until it’s almost impossible to tell which is hotter.

From the moment the story kicks off, you’re thrust into a kingdom on the brink. A year after her husband’s brutal betrayal — stealing half her realm and leaving her exposed to ravenous foes — Queen Lara is living proof that power tastes sweetest when it’s won back from someone who thought they already had it.

The backdrop of Celtic‑inspired magic and a fractured realm adds real stakes to every alliance and kiss. Spirits spill from shattered stone circles, ancient threats stir in the shadows, and impossible alliances must be forged lest the kingdom go up in flames. It’s epic without being overwhelming, giving the romance room to breathe — and burn.

[Frank · Rating 5 out of 5]

Epic completion of the two-part tale!

This is an excellent book: both moving & gripping, full of attraction & betrayal, and of danger & doubt.

I might have benefitted from a re-read of book 1 to refresh my memory before starting this but it didn't take long to mentally get back up to speed again and, once there, I was held captive right through to the end. (Still, definitely read book 1 before this one!)

The main MMC/FMC betrayal that followed book 1 is such a strong theme throughout this book, as is the ongoing danger from Lara's fears & self-doubt weakening her, and the juggling act with her hidden power.

On the other hand, the joint frustration between Lara & Alar is very well presented. Both are extremely attracted to each other yet undermined & kept apart by Alar's past treachery.

I enjoyed the quest, the tension, the exchanges, and how different beings each learn from one another.

Overall, an excellent classic fantasy epic.

PS: I loved the poem in the Epilogue

(I was fortunate to receive an ARC however the above is, as ever, my own opinion.)

[Lara · Rating 4 out of 5]

I struggled a little with the first book because although this duet is a stand-alone, there were other related books I didn't read so I felt a bit lost with some of the details and characters. However, I was intrigued enough to want to read book two. A year has passed since the end of the last book. Lara and Alar are living separate lives after he betrays her and takes part of her kingdom. An ongoing threat to all the residence of this world brings them back together along with their enemy the Fae Queen. Their journey is filled with evil, challenges and tragedy that brings them all closer together.

I really enjoyed book two right up until the last chapter or so. The adventure was unique and the reacquaintance of Lara and Alar was admirably written. The heart wants what the heart wants and this story represents that. Despite the last two chapters that I found fell a bit flat, I'm giving this one 3.5 to 4 stars.

Thank you Book Sirens and the author for the eARC.

[Lumie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to Book Sirens for the ARC.

Plot 3/5
Characters 3.5/5
Ending 3/5
Interest 3.5/5

Overall 3/5

-I couldn’t get into this book. The time jump and then the plot going exactly where I thought it was going to go bored me a little. It was a little disappointing tu doing exactly what happens next, especially with the romance. The book itself is very romance heavy but it didn’t really work for me.

-I liked Lara and her revenge plot, because Alar deserves it, so I was really hoping that she had an actual plan for him and that we’d be able to see it unfold in the book but in the end nothing really happened. They just suddenly slept together again and then love each other.

-I didn’t really care for the end when I reached it. I was really excited to be able to finish this duology but right now I’m just glad it’s over. I am glad I saw it through but I was hoping for something more.

[Leanne Bryson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jayne Castel is a creative genius—pure magic on the page!
You must read Book 1 first. From the very first page of Book 2, you're hooked. The story is beautifully written, fast-paced, and impossible to put down, with richly layered, lifelike characters you'll miss when it's over.
Enemies Lara and Alar—estranged for a year after his betrayal—must team up to save Albia. Their slow-burn romance simmers with tension and delivers a few scorching-hot moments amid surprising twists and high-stakes challenges.
I'm not usually a fantasy/romantasy reader, but Jayne Castel's incredible writing won me over completely. Highly recommend her Enforcer's Bride Duology and all her other books too! ✨❤️.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[SassypantsReading · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ok, but why is Lara always dizzy??? I really enjoyed how The Unforgiven duology ended. This book was so tense and a bit emotional. I was so intrigued by the various creatures and spirits, and I’m grateful that the author included notes on them. This book is VERY plot-heavy, so if you’re here for the chemistry and character feels, you might be disappointed. I thought the two mains both had really redemptive growth arcs, and I really enjoyed seeing the interplay between the other characters. I was waiting for the twist and it did not disappoint! I’m hoping for a Duana and Roth book? Even just a novella lol! I’m also going to go back and read Cailean and Bree’s story!

I received a copy of The Burning Crown from BookSirens and I am voluntarily writing this review.

[Theresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is the 2nd and final book in The Unforgiven series. It is extremely action packed but still moves the plot along nicely. Fully developed characters and rich world building with mythological creatures. The mood is slightly more dark then the previous book. There are trigger warnings. Please read them. I did not have any issues reading the book. This story ties up all arches of the story nicely. The conclusion to such a previous betrayal was realistically done. I definitely recommend this series. You must read the first book before reading this one. I received this as an ARC. I am leaving an honest and voluntary review.

[Barbara Hanson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again you are plunged into a world where fantasy and reality live side by side: creatures out to trick or kill you, enemies constantly trying to kill you: fighting, betrayal and hope, are but a few things that happen in this story. High Queen Lara, the Raven Queen and Half-Blood Alar embark on a quest to save their world, but along the way, many try to stop them.
This is an action-packed quest with many twists and turns: all the time he thought running through their minds is ‘can I trust them?’, only reading to the end will give the answer!
I voluntarily received and reviewed an ARC copy of the book.

[Lyn Brownlie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can there be peace?
This story is a duology and follows on from Book 1, The Queen and the Half-Blood.
After Alar’s deception, Lara focuses on what little she has left and her need to protect it rather than her heartbreak.
As the spirits wreak havoc on their world can an alliance help rid these vile creatures from the land?
Will she also let Alar into her life again and can he ever redeem himself?
With plenty of angst, action, forgiveness and lastly romance I really enjoyed the ending to this duology.
I loved the storyline, Lara and eventually Alar as the story concluded and am looking forward to more books in this complex world that Jayne has built.

[Rachel (Get Booked with Rae) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the continued story of our brave Queen. After the bitter betrayal at the end of book one, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on this book. This book is filled with action, adventure, danger at every turn!

I loved the Celtic mythology, the foes they faced down, enemies to allies, the plot twists, and the redemption. This book was filled with hope, light in the midst of darkness, second chances and hopefully new peace in the land. I loved the duology and can’t wait to return to this world in the next story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Cherie S]

Thrilling, Imagination Galore, Finding Love Again:
This story had me on the edge on my seat through the entire book.
The detail writing made me feel like I was watching the action moving right in front of me.
The characters were very intriguing, the creatures were incredibly frightening, the plot was
riveting, suspenseful; several betrayals, at times hair-raising scary.
Lara and Alar had their struggles throughout but by the end they finally admitted just how much they
loved each other which brought this story to a happy ending, for now anyway.

[Avid Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was desperately waiting for the final book in this immersive duology. The second book did not disappoint and was impossible to put down. It was fast paced and action packed full of deceit, betrayal, greed and jealousy but also loyalty, trust, friendship, guilt and love. Complex characters with flawed pasts working together against the spirit world. A duology I will definitely re-read. I thought the Enforcer's Bride duology was utterly brilliant but this was even better.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[HMU95 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book! At the end of the first part of this duology, I was itching to know what happened and burning with such loathing for Alar. I didnt quite believe that he could ever be redeemed, but Jayne Castel did it! This story is fast-paced, action packed and romantic to its core, and it was so fun to see Lara learn to master her power. Her and Alar are such a great pair and their love is so hard-won. I loved the fantasy element of this duology and this has only made me more eager for the next book by this fantastic author!

[Fiona · Rating 5 out of 5]

this is the second and last book in the series and it did not disappoint!. It picks up[ right were book one left off. It is fast moving and extremely engaging. The characters are complex but relatable. The story is full of betrayals, guilt, deception, those who are greedy and jealous but on the flip side you also find friendship, loyalty, trust and love. I could not put this book down and loved every minute of it.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Robin Phillips · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic ending to the duology. Lara’s strength and vulnerability made her easy to root for, and the tension with the man who betrayed her was irresistible. The Celtic-inspired world, the Shattered Crown, and the rising spirits added real atmosphere and urgency. I loved the unlikely alliance between three enemies, it gave the story its emotional punch. A quick, addictive romantasy with great slow-burn chemistry and rich mythology.

[Cody Marie Phoenix · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love these duologys set in a world based on Scottish folklore! It's always a pleasure to read Jayne Castel's work, but these past two series set in Albia, have pulled out all the stops. I can't wait for the 2026 duology! If you enjoy all things Scottish, A good story and high fantasy, you need to give these stories a try.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jess Bohanick · Rating 5 out of 5]

The conclusion to The Unforgiven duology was nothing short of epic. Jayne Castel has such a talent for writing cozy epic fantasy rich with enchanting lore, compelling characters, and just the right amount of drama.

Watching Lara and Alar work through betrayal and come together to save the realm of Albia was completely absorbing. I couldn’t put this book down. This world is stunning, and I truly hope we get to return to it again!

[Claire]

Need an escape? A different world to inhabit for a bit? One filled with dark brooding heroes and smart determined females? Then mount up on your clag-doo and hang on for the ride! Ms. Castel spins quite the adventure, complete with evil villains, epic battles, courageous friends and love that won't be denied. True escapism and with each page you look forward to the trip. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[tre.wandereads · Rating 3 out of 5]

I found the blurb interesting. And the book cover grabbed me from the start. But sadly, I found I could not really connect with the story. It's a perfectly nice book. And by nice, I mean it was well structured. It had a decent plot and the characters weren't dull. But for some reason, I wasn't able to really relate to them like I do in other books. So, it might be a good book, just not for me!