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The Executioner Prince
In the Kingdom of Netherhelm, a kingdom steeped in dark magic; two unyielding forces are about to collide.
The Executioner Prince
Thorne Shadowfall, third-born to the throne of Netherhelm, is a silver-haired disgrace among his obsidian crowned kin. Cursed by his father to bear the weight of a sin he didn't commit and forced to murder citizens in secret. Thorne has made a home in agony, as the blood he spills tightens the King's grip on him.
The Serpent of Netherhelm
Harrow Darkbloom is most comfortable in the shadows or wielding a blade. An assassin and a myth.
To the nobles, he's a faceless nightmare; to the common folk, a legend. His next the silver haired Prince of Netherhelm himself.
To strike, Harrow must masquerade as a knight to gain access to the Prince, but when a night of passion exposes the truths they've both buried, their hatred becomes a match which ignites against the stone of their lust and creates something far more dangerous. Bound by sin and secrets, the prince and the assassin find themselves entangled in a web of betrayal and prophecy with war on the horizon.
Will their lust and hatred end in ruin or salvation?
The Executioner Prince
Thorne Shadowfall, third-born to the throne of Netherhelm, is a silver-haired disgrace among his obsidian crowned kin. Cursed by his father to bear the weight of a sin he didn't commit and forced to murder citizens in secret. Thorne has made a home in agony, as the blood he spills tightens the King's grip on him.
The Serpent of Netherhelm
Harrow Darkbloom is most comfortable in the shadows or wielding a blade. An assassin and a myth.
To the nobles, he's a faceless nightmare; to the common folk, a legend. His next the silver haired Prince of Netherhelm himself.
To strike, Harrow must masquerade as a knight to gain access to the Prince, but when a night of passion exposes the truths they've both buried, their hatred becomes a match which ignites against the stone of their lust and creates something far more dangerous. Bound by sin and secrets, the prince and the assassin find themselves entangled in a web of betrayal and prophecy with war on the horizon.
Will their lust and hatred end in ruin or salvation?
Unknown Binding
Published January 1, 2026
About the author
Luden Gray
3 books13 followersLuden Gray is a passionate writer and Master's of English Student. Luden describes themself as a lifelong learner of the writing discipline and is always looking to improve. A bookstore manager, and pet rescue volunteer, Luden stays busy but their fantasy worlds are always on their mind!
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
May 14, 2026
At first, I thought maybe I wasn't going to like this book, it took me a little bit to get into it but once I did, I was hooked. I was pleasantly surprised. 😆
Harrow has a mission and he is determined to complete it. His mission, to kill the Prince.
Prince Thorne, a poor cursed soul who is tortured and is forced to kill innocents by the King.
The banter and tension 🤌🏽 the touch him and die moments 🥵
The political intrigue, the corrupt King, the magic system, everything was just perfect.
That ending, whoaaa!
The Executioner Prince is the first book of the duology. You won't want to miss this!
Harrow has a mission and he is determined to complete it. His mission, to kill the Prince.
Prince Thorne, a poor cursed soul who is tortured and is forced to kill innocents by the King.
The banter and tension 🤌🏽 the touch him and die moments 🥵
The political intrigue, the corrupt King, the magic system, everything was just perfect.
That ending, whoaaa!
The Executioner Prince is the first book of the duology. You won't want to miss this!
May 8, 2026
4.5, rounding up for Goodreads.
A quick, fast paced read with 269 pages.
Opened strong on page 1 and was hooked. Dark, lush, and beautifully toxic. Think The Song of Achilles meets John Wick in a kingdom made of shadows.
The Tropes:
⚔️. Assassin x Prince
🎭. Secret Identity
🔥. Enemies to Lovers
🌑. Cursed Hero
🏳️🌈. MM spicy
☑️. Morally grey men
Thank you to Rattle the Stars PR and Luden Gray for the arc opportunity!
A quick, fast paced read with 269 pages.
Opened strong on page 1 and was hooked. Dark, lush, and beautifully toxic. Think The Song of Achilles meets John Wick in a kingdom made of shadows.
The Tropes:
⚔️. Assassin x Prince
🎭. Secret Identity
🔥. Enemies to Lovers
🌑. Cursed Hero
🏳️🌈. MM spicy
☑️. Morally grey men
Thank you to Rattle the Stars PR and Luden Gray for the arc opportunity!
May 12, 2026
Thank you to the author and Rattle the Stats PR for providing me with this e-ARC
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 rounded up
At 269 pages, this book is a fairly short read for part one of a fantasy duet and I wasn’t sure how it was going to play out going in. The chemistry and banter between our main male characters was addictive and I really enjoyed their interactions, but the heavy world building and plot lines didn’t have the strongest structure. The few random snippets of modern language threw me off and made me disconnect a bit with the storyline. I am invested enough, however, to see what happens with Thorne and Harrow so I’ll certainly be reading part two of the duet.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 rounded up
At 269 pages, this book is a fairly short read for part one of a fantasy duet and I wasn’t sure how it was going to play out going in. The chemistry and banter between our main male characters was addictive and I really enjoyed their interactions, but the heavy world building and plot lines didn’t have the strongest structure. The few random snippets of modern language threw me off and made me disconnect a bit with the storyline. I am invested enough, however, to see what happens with Thorne and Harrow so I’ll certainly be reading part two of the duet.
May 8, 2026
If there’s one thing I love. It’s boys kissing…and fantasy worlds of violence and subterfuge! This book had it all, and I’m so happy I got to read the arc before the rest of y’all. That way I can confidently say I was here first. I’m not great at writing reviews of stuff, but I hope that someone with fancier words than I can come along, read this, and write what I feel on the matter. Please read this people, I need someone to talk about it with ☺️☺️☺️☺️☺️☺️☺️☺️
May 3, 2026
Advanced reader copy sent by the Author
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5 stars
What to expect:
🐦⬛ Assassin x Prince
👑Enemies to Lovers
🐦⬛MM Romane
👑 Love & Loss
🐦⬛Redemption
👑Oppression
🐦⬛ Spicy Scenes
Wow this book was great.
We follow Harrow Darkbloom - The Serpent of Netherhelm an assassin who lives in the shadows.
He masquerades as knight to gain access to the Prince, so he can kill him. But when he finally has the chance to kill him something happens that he did not expect...
I enjoyed Harrows charcater he had a mission, it failed and then he adapted. I loved the bond he had with Crowley.
Thorne Shadowfall - The Executioner Prince, third borne to the throne of Netherhelm, is a disgrace among his kin. He is forced to do terrible things. And has no choice but to follow orders.
I felt for Thorne's character he is tortured over and over again. Treated horribly then expected to just do as he was ordered.
The chemistry between Thorne and Harrow was explosive. Their relationship was intense, heartbreaking and beautiful at the same time. The bond they share is very special.
The perfect amount of "spice" in this book.
Loved the chapters and characters in the Vemonwoods. Seeing into Harrows background was fantastic, where he was raised and the characters that played a role in that.
The world building in this book was great. Very descriptive and atmospheric.
The plot was fantastic, it was fast paced, and ACTION packed at the end.
The ending I did not see that coming. Wow!
Literal opposite to what Harrow set out to achieve.
" Duty may have him, but the truest parts of him are mine."
Highly recommend this book.
Thank you to the Author and Rattle The Stars PR for sending me a copy of this book.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5 stars
What to expect:
🐦⬛ Assassin x Prince
👑Enemies to Lovers
🐦⬛MM Romane
👑 Love & Loss
🐦⬛Redemption
👑Oppression
🐦⬛ Spicy Scenes
Wow this book was great.
We follow Harrow Darkbloom - The Serpent of Netherhelm an assassin who lives in the shadows.
He masquerades as knight to gain access to the Prince, so he can kill him. But when he finally has the chance to kill him something happens that he did not expect...
I enjoyed Harrows charcater he had a mission, it failed and then he adapted. I loved the bond he had with Crowley.
Thorne Shadowfall - The Executioner Prince, third borne to the throne of Netherhelm, is a disgrace among his kin. He is forced to do terrible things. And has no choice but to follow orders.
I felt for Thorne's character he is tortured over and over again. Treated horribly then expected to just do as he was ordered.
The chemistry between Thorne and Harrow was explosive. Their relationship was intense, heartbreaking and beautiful at the same time. The bond they share is very special.
The perfect amount of "spice" in this book.
Loved the chapters and characters in the Vemonwoods. Seeing into Harrows background was fantastic, where he was raised and the characters that played a role in that.
The world building in this book was great. Very descriptive and atmospheric.
The plot was fantastic, it was fast paced, and ACTION packed at the end.
The ending I did not see that coming. Wow!
Literal opposite to what Harrow set out to achieve.
" Duty may have him, but the truest parts of him are mine."
Highly recommend this book.
Thank you to the Author and Rattle The Stars PR for sending me a copy of this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 10, 2026
I received an eARC of this book via @rattlethestarspr and @ludengray. The Executioner Prince releases on May 26, 2026 and will be available on Kindle Unlimited, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Bookshop.org, and IngramSpark! This is my honest, voluntary review 🖤
If you love a book of drama and edgy men, this is definitely for you. You get not only one but TWO edgy characters to pick from (or love both of), and the way they're completely intertwined with each other (even when they're trying to deny it) makes it even more fun to experience. I enjoyed the fact that the characters had unique backstories and upbringings that led to them turning out the way they did, something that I find adds a touch of realism into a heavily fantasy world.
I also LOVED the worldbuilding in this book. There was so much lore about the operations of the kingdom, their belief systems, their magic, and the general world to get to know and it got me super immersed into the atmosphere. One of my favorite descriptions was of the buildings in the town, it gave me a super clear mental image of unearthly buildings mixed with medieval village vibes.
Also despite the heavy world building this was a very fast paced book! There was almost always something going on or something new to learn, which really helped keep my interest. There were plenty of twists and turns throughout, all the way to the very end.
Overall, I'd recommend this book, and I'm definitely ready for book two. It was a super casual read and I was able to get through a lot of it in just one sitting.
If you love a book of drama and edgy men, this is definitely for you. You get not only one but TWO edgy characters to pick from (or love both of), and the way they're completely intertwined with each other (even when they're trying to deny it) makes it even more fun to experience. I enjoyed the fact that the characters had unique backstories and upbringings that led to them turning out the way they did, something that I find adds a touch of realism into a heavily fantasy world.
I also LOVED the worldbuilding in this book. There was so much lore about the operations of the kingdom, their belief systems, their magic, and the general world to get to know and it got me super immersed into the atmosphere. One of my favorite descriptions was of the buildings in the town, it gave me a super clear mental image of unearthly buildings mixed with medieval village vibes.
Also despite the heavy world building this was a very fast paced book! There was almost always something going on or something new to learn, which really helped keep my interest. There were plenty of twists and turns throughout, all the way to the very end.
Overall, I'd recommend this book, and I'm definitely ready for book two. It was a super casual read and I was able to get through a lot of it in just one sitting.
May 15, 2026
I had the absolute privilege to read an Advanced Readers Copy of this book and it was amazing! This was the first MM romantasy book I have read so I didn’t know what to expect going into it and it blew me away. There was really clear world building and establishing of characters, as well as their complex dynamics. The main characters, Thorne and Harrow, had so much sexual tension and the YEARNING!!!!! The yearning was unmatched. The second half of the book was definitely my favorite part because the world was fully established and the tension that was building in the first half from the different kingdoms were coming to the forefront. I don’t want to say too much because I don’t want to accidentally spoil anything and think you should just buckle up for the emotional roller coaster. Truly this was a fantastic start to a new MM romantasy series!
Some of my favorite quotes from the book are:
“We are wretched mirrors facing one another, open to each other’s storms as we exchange our darkest truths”
“He was sugar to my bland pallet, an explosion of color in my life”
“Instead, they’ll only find him, imprinted in my being, his fingerprints at the base of my skull”
“Within this rage I am whole, within this rage I am home”
This is an adult romantic fantasy book, so it is suitable for readers over the age of 18. Also make sure to check the trigger warnings before starting. If you love high romantic fantasy stories with magic, betrayal, assassin x prince, angst, and spice, this is the story for you!!!
Some of my favorite quotes from the book are:
“We are wretched mirrors facing one another, open to each other’s storms as we exchange our darkest truths”
“He was sugar to my bland pallet, an explosion of color in my life”
“Instead, they’ll only find him, imprinted in my being, his fingerprints at the base of my skull”
“Within this rage I am whole, within this rage I am home”
This is an adult romantic fantasy book, so it is suitable for readers over the age of 18. Also make sure to check the trigger warnings before starting. If you love high romantic fantasy stories with magic, betrayal, assassin x prince, angst, and spice, this is the story for you!!!
May 11, 2026
“How tragic, a prince who’s never known love, finding solace in the arms of the wretched assassin meant to kill him.”
Harrow Darkbloom, the Serpent of Netherhelm, masquerades as a knight to gain access to the Prince of Netherhelm, so he can kill him. Something unexpected happens and the two form a bond. Now, two years later, Prince Thorne is still alive.
But time is running out for Harrow.
If he doesn’t complete his task, the people that raised him and cared for him will be killed. Harrow watches from afar, how Thorne is treated by his father, King Dreven. How Thorne will execute someone in one min, and the next feed orphan children. The prince is frustratingly magnetic, and the assassin doesn’t know what to do with that knowledge.
Told from dual pov, Luden Grey does an excellent job fleshing out the main characters and showing how their past traumas have shaped them. This is a dark fantasy mm romance that is heartbreaking and beautiful at the same time. It has a fast-paced plot with lots of action scenes.
Thank you to the Author and Rattle The Stars PR for sending me a copy of this book.
What to expect:
🐦⬛ Assassin x Prince
👑Enemies to Lovers
🐦⬛MM Romance
👑 Love & Loss
🐦⬛Redemption
Harrow Darkbloom, the Serpent of Netherhelm, masquerades as a knight to gain access to the Prince of Netherhelm, so he can kill him. Something unexpected happens and the two form a bond. Now, two years later, Prince Thorne is still alive.
But time is running out for Harrow.
If he doesn’t complete his task, the people that raised him and cared for him will be killed. Harrow watches from afar, how Thorne is treated by his father, King Dreven. How Thorne will execute someone in one min, and the next feed orphan children. The prince is frustratingly magnetic, and the assassin doesn’t know what to do with that knowledge.
Told from dual pov, Luden Grey does an excellent job fleshing out the main characters and showing how their past traumas have shaped them. This is a dark fantasy mm romance that is heartbreaking and beautiful at the same time. It has a fast-paced plot with lots of action scenes.
Thank you to the Author and Rattle The Stars PR for sending me a copy of this book.
What to expect:
🐦⬛ Assassin x Prince
👑Enemies to Lovers
🐦⬛MM Romance
👑 Love & Loss
🐦⬛Redemption
May 16, 2026
ARC Read!
This story was hella gripping and had me hooked right from the start. The pacing never once dulled or swayed, constantly leaving me desperate for “just one more chapter.” The rich history and magic systems blended seamlessly into the storytelling without ever feeling overwhelming or out of place, which made it easy to stay fully immersed instead of feeling lost or confused about what was happening.
Most importantly, I absolutely adored the characters, and the yearning throughout this book was so painfully on point that I found myself craving even more of those subtle, tender, intimate moments between them. The sass and banter between Harrow and Thorne were everything, but beneath it all was this aching softness that made every interaction hit harder. It genuinely tugged at my heart watching how much they both suffer, especially Thorne and the cruel hand life has dealt him.
And that ending? Ugh. Absolutely not. I refuse to believe it ends there because I need more of them immediately.
This story was hella gripping and had me hooked right from the start. The pacing never once dulled or swayed, constantly leaving me desperate for “just one more chapter.” The rich history and magic systems blended seamlessly into the storytelling without ever feeling overwhelming or out of place, which made it easy to stay fully immersed instead of feeling lost or confused about what was happening.
Most importantly, I absolutely adored the characters, and the yearning throughout this book was so painfully on point that I found myself craving even more of those subtle, tender, intimate moments between them. The sass and banter between Harrow and Thorne were everything, but beneath it all was this aching softness that made every interaction hit harder. It genuinely tugged at my heart watching how much they both suffer, especially Thorne and the cruel hand life has dealt him.
And that ending? Ugh. Absolutely not. I refuse to believe it ends there because I need more of them immediately.
May 14, 2026
ARC Review
"Funny how vows decay."
The Executioner Prince by Luden Grey is a must read. This assassin x prince combo is everything we want in enemies-to-lovers. Although the burn isn't the slowest of slow burns, it's still absolutely delicious with the forbidden love vibes.
The magic system is unique and I enjoyed how the magic relates to the Titans and kindgoms of this world. Luden Grey does a great job of world building and using details to bring it to life for the reader.
The plot was such a magnificent ride. There were times when I was happy, sad, angry, and down right heartbroken. As soon as I felt like I could anticipate what was going to happen, I was slapped in the face by an unexpected twist. The last few chapters had my jaw on the floor!
The Executioner Prince releases May 26th, so make sure it's on your TBR and to mark your calendars!
"Funny how vows decay."
The Executioner Prince by Luden Grey is a must read. This assassin x prince combo is everything we want in enemies-to-lovers. Although the burn isn't the slowest of slow burns, it's still absolutely delicious with the forbidden love vibes.
The magic system is unique and I enjoyed how the magic relates to the Titans and kindgoms of this world. Luden Grey does a great job of world building and using details to bring it to life for the reader.
The plot was such a magnificent ride. There were times when I was happy, sad, angry, and down right heartbroken. As soon as I felt like I could anticipate what was going to happen, I was slapped in the face by an unexpected twist. The last few chapters had my jaw on the floor!
The Executioner Prince releases May 26th, so make sure it's on your TBR and to mark your calendars!
May 8, 2026
“Choose to suffer me, because everyone else has chosen not to.”
This story follows Harrow Darkbloom and Thorne Shadowfall two people struggling against their mutual attraction, in a world where the monsters in the woods aren’t the biggest demons they have to battle.
It has a little bit of everything: political intrigue, warring nations, tyrannical kings, truly creepy monsters, interesting magic system, and some steam worthy tension.
Both men are trapped by obligations, deadly bargains, and evil princes/kings and made for some suspenseful and emotional moments that kept me wondering how it was all going to end.
With everything that occurred in those final 100 pages, I look forward to the second book. This is book one in the duet.
Assassin X Prince
MM Romance
Monsters
Evil Kings
Enemies to Lovers
This is an arc review all opinions are my own.
This story follows Harrow Darkbloom and Thorne Shadowfall two people struggling against their mutual attraction, in a world where the monsters in the woods aren’t the biggest demons they have to battle.
It has a little bit of everything: political intrigue, warring nations, tyrannical kings, truly creepy monsters, interesting magic system, and some steam worthy tension.
Both men are trapped by obligations, deadly bargains, and evil princes/kings and made for some suspenseful and emotional moments that kept me wondering how it was all going to end.
With everything that occurred in those final 100 pages, I look forward to the second book. This is book one in the duet.
Assassin X Prince
MM Romance
Monsters
Evil Kings
Enemies to Lovers
This is an arc review all opinions are my own.
May 17, 2026
I was convinced to read this as soon as it was marketed for lovers of Song of Achilles which will forever me my greatest book love. Luckily, this book gave me exactly what I was after.
The Executioner Prince is a thrilling, passionate, emotional read which kept me enraptured on each page. The main characters have a fiery tension, filled with forbidden betrayal and untrustworthy words. I absolutely loved their dynamic.
The story itself was really interesting, unique in a world of repetitive fantasies. I found it was filled with great lore building and loveable characters.
Overall, I would highly recommend this read. I'm uncertain if a sequel will be written but god I hope so because I need more!
The Executioner Prince is a thrilling, passionate, emotional read which kept me enraptured on each page. The main characters have a fiery tension, filled with forbidden betrayal and untrustworthy words. I absolutely loved their dynamic.
The story itself was really interesting, unique in a world of repetitive fantasies. I found it was filled with great lore building and loveable characters.
Overall, I would highly recommend this read. I'm uncertain if a sequel will be written but god I hope so because I need more!
May 17, 2026
📖This was a 5⭐️ read, and here’s why:
⚔️🐍From the beginning, Harrow’s story is one that I quickly became attached to. His dark past defines every action he takes, making it more enthralling as the story develops. And you can tell from the beginning that, underneath his brooding mask, is someone who loves and longes to be loved🐍⚔️
✨👑And the same can be said for Thorne. A prince with a crown too heavy, a secret that quickly becomes harder to hide, and a curse that seems to haunt his very existence.👑✨
⚔️Their story is dark, intense, and everything you could possibly want. I couldn’t put it down, and I can’t wait to see what the next book will bring⚔️
Thank you Luden Gray and Rattle the Stars for the opportunity 🥹
May 11, 2026
Thank you so much for the ARC!
Okok thoughts. What are they. How does one move from that ending?
The banter? Spot on. The tension? Tight. The drama? Hot.
This story follows Harrow and Thorne, in Harrow’s POVS. Both of our MC’s have been through harsh lives, in different ways. Harrow has set out to kill off the vile nobles and royalty, when he gets a contract to kill the prince. This story brought enemies to lovers, Prince x assassin vibes, and even touch him and die in some moments. This world was very easy to understand, and the political intrigue was so good. I loved every second and I absolutely need the second book asap so I can find out what happened to my boys!!
Okok thoughts. What are they. How does one move from that ending?
The banter? Spot on. The tension? Tight. The drama? Hot.
This story follows Harrow and Thorne, in Harrow’s POVS. Both of our MC’s have been through harsh lives, in different ways. Harrow has set out to kill off the vile nobles and royalty, when he gets a contract to kill the prince. This story brought enemies to lovers, Prince x assassin vibes, and even touch him and die in some moments. This world was very easy to understand, and the political intrigue was so good. I loved every second and I absolutely need the second book asap so I can find out what happened to my boys!!
May 11, 2026
Thank you to the author and to Rattle the Stars PR for an early ebook of The Executioner Prince.
This story was okay, I didn't hate it but I didn't love it either. I thought a lot of the world building felt clunky, for lack of a better word, through out most of the book.
However, I did like Harrow and Thorne. Their banter and little slow-burn was delicious. When I was able to understand it, the magic system is pretty unique. I especially loved the snake beings and their abilities. Really wanted more of their story line.
The ending was super chaotic but it left me curious for what the future holds for our MMCs, meaning I would read more of this series just to find out.
This story was okay, I didn't hate it but I didn't love it either. I thought a lot of the world building felt clunky, for lack of a better word, through out most of the book.
However, I did like Harrow and Thorne. Their banter and little slow-burn was delicious. When I was able to understand it, the magic system is pretty unique. I especially loved the snake beings and their abilities. Really wanted more of their story line.
The ending was super chaotic but it left me curious for what the future holds for our MMCs, meaning I would read more of this series just to find out.
May 17, 2026
The way I love them, but they make my heart HURT 😭
•MM romance
•Enemies to lovers
•Assassin x Prince
•Magical life bond
•TWO Morally Grey MCs
•Animal Familiars
I couldn’t put The Executioner Prince down once I started. Sassy, hilarious, grumpy MMCs, curses, the action, and the way that Thorne and Harrow are constantly wanting to choose each other but having things thrown between them made me devour every word 🥺
I cannot wait for the next book. With an ending that left me a sobbing mess, I’m hopeful they (and I) get what they deserve after everything 🥲
A huge thank you to the author and Rattle the Stars PR for the gifted copy!❣️
•MM romance
•Enemies to lovers
•Assassin x Prince
•Magical life bond
•TWO Morally Grey MCs
•Animal Familiars
I couldn’t put The Executioner Prince down once I started. Sassy, hilarious, grumpy MMCs, curses, the action, and the way that Thorne and Harrow are constantly wanting to choose each other but having things thrown between them made me devour every word 🥺
I cannot wait for the next book. With an ending that left me a sobbing mess, I’m hopeful they (and I) get what they deserve after everything 🥲
A huge thank you to the author and Rattle the Stars PR for the gifted copy!❣️
May 13, 2026
Book Review: The Executioner Prince, by Luden Gray
Rate: 4.5 ★★★★✩
I was lucky enough to be part of the Beta Reading Team back in March, so I couldn’t wait to join the ARC Team and review this book. You know when you read a book and you’re absolutely fascinated by the story, and you keep thinking, “My God, what a mind to create this world”? That was exactly how I felt while reading this. What a mind Luden Gray has. The fantasy elements, the world-building, the character development—it’s all there.
📖 The Executioner Prince is a great story for fans of romantasy like The Song of Achilles or Throne of Glass. I was also able to spot a few elements reminiscent of Game of Thrones, which I loved and which hooked my attention right from the start.
Romantasy isn’t usually the first genre I reach for, but I was intrigued by the blurb, and it truly did not disappoint.
Rate: 4.5 ★★★★✩
I was lucky enough to be part of the Beta Reading Team back in March, so I couldn’t wait to join the ARC Team and review this book. You know when you read a book and you’re absolutely fascinated by the story, and you keep thinking, “My God, what a mind to create this world”? That was exactly how I felt while reading this. What a mind Luden Gray has. The fantasy elements, the world-building, the character development—it’s all there.
📖 The Executioner Prince is a great story for fans of romantasy like The Song of Achilles or Throne of Glass. I was also able to spot a few elements reminiscent of Game of Thrones, which I loved and which hooked my attention right from the start.
Romantasy isn’t usually the first genre I reach for, but I was intrigued by the blurb, and it truly did not disappoint.
May 12, 2026
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Publication Date: May 26th, 2026
Tropes:
Linked Lives
MM Romance
Curse
Enemies to Lovers
The Executioner Prince is book 1 of the duet.
The story follows Prince Thorne and Harrow, where the 2 of them fight their attraction to one another.
Harrow was on a mission that nothing would stop him until something does.
Prince Thorn didn’t have an easy upbringing until one day he took matters into his own hands.
The plot was plotting and the story was amazing.
The ending had me in tears, I’m happy there will be a book 2.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Publication Date: May 26th, 2026
Tropes:
Linked Lives
MM Romance
Curse
Enemies to Lovers
The Executioner Prince is book 1 of the duet.
The story follows Prince Thorne and Harrow, where the 2 of them fight their attraction to one another.
Harrow was on a mission that nothing would stop him until something does.
Prince Thorn didn’t have an easy upbringing until one day he took matters into his own hands.
The plot was plotting and the story was amazing.
The ending had me in tears, I’m happy there will be a book 2.
May 16, 2026
ARC Review! I was lucky enough to be accepted to read The Executioner Prince, huge thanks to @rattlethestarspr & @ludengray
Immediately after seeing the tropes and reading the blurb I knew this book was going to be a great read. The enemies to lovers aspect fit so well with Harrow and Thorne, the longing looks and watching each other was done so well. The banter and tension was *chefs kiss* 💋 🧑🍳
4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
My arms come around him before I can stop them, an instinct unexplored. Reflex. Guilt. I don’t know. I shouldn’t touch him. I shouldn’t be the one holding him together when I am the reason he’s coming apart. I am a rabid thing, untrustworthy and vicious. And yet— He lets me. That’s what unsettles me most.
Somehow I allow my hand to grasp his head, the tendrils of hair moving between my fingers. His hair is perfect even when it’s sticky with blood. How tragic, a prince who’s never known love, finding solace in the arms of the wretched assassin meant to kill him.
Immediately after seeing the tropes and reading the blurb I knew this book was going to be a great read. The enemies to lovers aspect fit so well with Harrow and Thorne, the longing looks and watching each other was done so well. The banter and tension was *chefs kiss* 💋 🧑🍳
4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
My arms come around him before I can stop them, an instinct unexplored. Reflex. Guilt. I don’t know. I shouldn’t touch him. I shouldn’t be the one holding him together when I am the reason he’s coming apart. I am a rabid thing, untrustworthy and vicious. And yet— He lets me. That’s what unsettles me most.
Somehow I allow my hand to grasp his head, the tendrils of hair moving between my fingers. His hair is perfect even when it’s sticky with blood. How tragic, a prince who’s never known love, finding solace in the arms of the wretched assassin meant to kill him.
May 17, 2026
***Thank you for the ARC in exchange for an Honest review!***
While the MM trope was not entirely in my wheelhouse, I genuinely enjoyed the banter between Harrow and Thorne. Gray's world-building was excellent for the overall length. This was a shorter read at only a little over 260 pages, but there is a lot packed in! Even if MM might not be your normal cup of tea, I highly recommend the Executioner Prince as a must-read for 2026!
While the MM trope was not entirely in my wheelhouse, I genuinely enjoyed the banter between Harrow and Thorne. Gray's world-building was excellent for the overall length. This was a shorter read at only a little over 260 pages, but there is a lot packed in! Even if MM might not be your normal cup of tea, I highly recommend the Executioner Prince as a must-read for 2026!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 8, 2026
I devoured this book. I wanted to know more and more about the world and wanted to dive in head first. The characters felt so real to me and I loved every second of it…. Well most of it at least- the last few chapters nearly killed me but I wouldn’t change it for the world. I cannot wait for everyone to read this.
May 11, 2026
I’m not a big review leaver but the author sent me an ARC and I so happened to fall in love with this! I love that the world building was so immersive and that everything was fast paced. It kept me engaged and I was so in love with Harrow and Thorne ! That ending had me NEEDING more! I miss them already!
May 17, 2026
The only thing I have to say is, I NEED THE SECOND BOOK NOOOWW!! I can't be left like that 😭 This story took a direction I did not expect and I love that I hate it 😝😂
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