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The Shrouded Queen
Not yet published
Expected 16 Jun 26In the first book in this romantasy duology inspired by ancient Egyptian mythology, a slave and a princess switch places during an enemy attack, igniting parallel journeys of love and survival.
As a slave to the Ashoran royals, Samira has always known she was expendable. So when the vicious Kaldfolk attack the palace, she is ready to die as a decoy for her princess. But when she’s captured instead, she’s forced to impersonate the princess and survive through brutal trials designed to awaken her divine powers—all under the watch of her dangerously intriguing, shape-shifting captor.
Amunet Khada—now queen of Ashorah—is on the run following the king’s death. With only her guard-with-benefits, Jasim, by her side, she must evade treacherous allies while racing to contact her father—the god of the underworld—before her long-promised powers slip beyond reach.
While Amunet embarks on a quest through the wastelands, Samira learns the true reason for the attack and unlocks secrets in her past that could change everything. And with threats growing on all sides, Samira and Amunet must decide...who can they trust?
As a slave to the Ashoran royals, Samira has always known she was expendable. So when the vicious Kaldfolk attack the palace, she is ready to die as a decoy for her princess. But when she’s captured instead, she’s forced to impersonate the princess and survive through brutal trials designed to awaken her divine powers—all under the watch of her dangerously intriguing, shape-shifting captor.
Amunet Khada—now queen of Ashorah—is on the run following the king’s death. With only her guard-with-benefits, Jasim, by her side, she must evade treacherous allies while racing to contact her father—the god of the underworld—before her long-promised powers slip beyond reach.
While Amunet embarks on a quest through the wastelands, Samira learns the true reason for the attack and unlocks secrets in her past that could change everything. And with threats growing on all sides, Samira and Amunet must decide...who can they trust?
448 pages, Paperback
Expected publication June 16, 2026
8 people are currently reading
147 people want to read
About the author
Ashley Tropea
4 books55 followersAshley Tropea comes from an Egyptian-Italian family and has been writing since she was 11. She finished her first novel by the age of 14 and published it online for free, where she received an overwhelming amount of positive feedback, earning a combined 1.5 million reads worldwide.
In addition to her (perhaps unhealthy) obsession with books, she is also a huge tv junkie. She studied writing for tv at Loyola Marymount University where she graduated with a BA in Screenwriting. Her scripts have performed just as well as her novels, placing in numerous screenwriting competitions and regularly ranking in the top 10 on Coverfly's Red List.
With a special place in her heart for fantasies and ball gowns, Ashley intends to spread her love of large worlds, adventure, and romance through her novels and films.
In addition to her (perhaps unhealthy) obsession with books, she is also a huge tv junkie. She studied writing for tv at Loyola Marymount University where she graduated with a BA in Screenwriting. Her scripts have performed just as well as her novels, placing in numerous screenwriting competitions and regularly ranking in the top 10 on Coverfly's Red List.
With a special place in her heart for fantasies and ball gowns, Ashley intends to spread her love of large worlds, adventure, and romance through her novels and films.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
December 14, 2025
4.5/5
I was very fortunate to receive an ARC of this book releasing in June 2026.
This is such a unique and well written story, it definitely grabbed me and kept me hooked. When I first read the snippet I thought - oh like a fantasy parent trap - but noooo, so much more than that. We are talking one kingdom that is heavily inspired by a magical Egyptian setting with gods - facing their enemy kingdom which is kind of like Viking inspired with runes, magic and bear shifters.
Princess Amunet is the gods chosen, daughter of the god of the underworld, she is revered and soon due to inherit her powers - see, in times of trouble, the gods send their children to earth to help, giving them pieces of their powers. Samira is a servant to the princess, taken from her home 16 years previous, she has only known servitude. But it was not an easy life, as the princess was quite cruel. One night, an enemy kingdom comes and end up attacking - planning to capture the princess. Amunet, wanting to escape, dresses her maid Samira in her clothing and tells her to impersonate her to give her time to get away. So as Amunet is running away with her trusted guard with benefits Jasim, Samira is captured and brought back to their kingdom. Where she must keep up the ruse, or be found out and “ended”. Amunet on the run, now Queen after the passing of the king in the battle, must find new allies and strength, and how to contact her father who now no longer communicates with her.
Dual POV from Samira and Amunet - I found it a little hard with Amunet cause I just straight out do not like her. But I give the writer props for showing how multidimensional she is and giving her layers.
I was very fortunate to receive an ARC of this book releasing in June 2026.
This is such a unique and well written story, it definitely grabbed me and kept me hooked. When I first read the snippet I thought - oh like a fantasy parent trap - but noooo, so much more than that. We are talking one kingdom that is heavily inspired by a magical Egyptian setting with gods - facing their enemy kingdom which is kind of like Viking inspired with runes, magic and bear shifters.
Princess Amunet is the gods chosen, daughter of the god of the underworld, she is revered and soon due to inherit her powers - see, in times of trouble, the gods send their children to earth to help, giving them pieces of their powers. Samira is a servant to the princess, taken from her home 16 years previous, she has only known servitude. But it was not an easy life, as the princess was quite cruel. One night, an enemy kingdom comes and end up attacking - planning to capture the princess. Amunet, wanting to escape, dresses her maid Samira in her clothing and tells her to impersonate her to give her time to get away. So as Amunet is running away with her trusted guard with benefits Jasim, Samira is captured and brought back to their kingdom. Where she must keep up the ruse, or be found out and “ended”. Amunet on the run, now Queen after the passing of the king in the battle, must find new allies and strength, and how to contact her father who now no longer communicates with her.
Dual POV from Samira and Amunet - I found it a little hard with Amunet cause I just straight out do not like her. But I give the writer props for showing how multidimensional she is and giving her layers.
October 27, 2025
Ashley’s done it again! This book perfectly blends Egyptian and Norse mythology. It has one of bitchiest female main characters I’ve ever read and I feel like we need that kind of representation today. Like hell yeah - be that bitch! That paired with her sweet-as-honey co-lead and BOOM you’ve got something special in your hands.
Read for the girls, stay for the men they meet (hehehehehe). Action-packed, hot, and leaves you wanting the next book ASAP.
Read for the girls, stay for the men they meet (hehehehehe). Action-packed, hot, and leaves you wanting the next book ASAP.
October 27, 2025
Cannot state how excited I am for this. GET HYPED Y’ALL!!! We will all be frothing at the mouth when this comes out and I don’t think we are ready. Will be purchasing this book the second it’s available and you should too! You won’t regret it 😤
October 27, 2025
Ahhhhhh!!!! I can’t wait!!!🥳🥳🥳 literally counting the days till it’s released
November 21, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with the eArc for this book!
I really enjoyed this! The lore and tie-ins with Egyptian mythology were extremely interesting and compelling. I loved how different Samira and Amunet were from each other, and the character development both went through over the course of the book. There were a few phrases that felt somewhat out of place and modern for the setting - things like "twin-sized bed," Amunet's inner monologue asking "Why the fuck we're still here," someone asking "Where the fuck was I?" but overall, this was a great read and I'm definitely looking forward to the next installment!
I really enjoyed this! The lore and tie-ins with Egyptian mythology were extremely interesting and compelling. I loved how different Samira and Amunet were from each other, and the character development both went through over the course of the book. There were a few phrases that felt somewhat out of place and modern for the setting - things like "twin-sized bed," Amunet's inner monologue asking "Why the fuck we're still here," someone asking "Where the fuck was I?" but overall, this was a great read and I'm definitely looking forward to the next installment!
October 27, 2025
What. A. Read.
I’m constantly impressed by Ashley’s storytelling skills, and The Shrouded Queen is no exception. She crafted an incredibly refreshing world with bold and nuanced characters you’ll easily become obsessed with. Cannot wait to see where she takes this story!
I’ll be first in line on June 16th to get my copy, and so should you!
I’m constantly impressed by Ashley’s storytelling skills, and The Shrouded Queen is no exception. She crafted an incredibly refreshing world with bold and nuanced characters you’ll easily become obsessed with. Cannot wait to see where she takes this story!
I’ll be first in line on June 16th to get my copy, and so should you!
October 28, 2025
So excited for this one! Ashley is a force to be reckoned with. A skilled writer who creates a compelling world that merges cultures. I consider myself lucky to have glimpsed at nascent drafts of this and I truly cannot wait to read the final version once it hits shelves!
November 30, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
MS ASHLEEEYYY PLEASE COME TO THE FRONT!!! hi, hello, okay now tell me... WHAT sort of crack did you put in this book?! I read it in like 2 days lol
As someone new to Egyptian mythology this book was so interesting. It was uniquely in its concept and execution.
Okay let's talk about a few people:
Samira- I loved her character growth. She was a kidnapped little girl that was taken and made a slave (or a "maid") in service to the princess/queen who also has the title God's Chosen. When the enemy invades the palace Amunet (the princess) demands that Samira impersonate her as part of Amunets escape plan. Subsequently Samira gets taken into enemy territory-- but her feelings grow conflicted when her life with the "enemy" is better than any life she's known before.
I liked watching as she transformed from maid/servant into her own being, using her voice and forming her own opinion. She became bold and outspoken.
Keir- yes! Hes a shifter (part bear and man) that makes the split decision to capture Gods Chosen (actually Samira) in order to try and save his land. His the second in command behind the King of Kaldfold and lissttteeeennn the tension that builds between him and Samira kept me up reading into the night lol
Amunet- okay now shes an interesting character. She has so many titles, princess/queen, God's Chosen, and daughter of Shaya (god of the underworld) it leaves you wondering who Amunet actually is. She battles with all of these identities and the want to just be loved and accepted for her. She makes questionable choices, some that are selfish and some that are driven from self preservation. Sometimes you love her and sometimes you hate her buuutt at the end I did feel like i understood her and thats the mark of a good character.
Jasim- I will be accepting no Jasim slander, thank you!
So why only 4.5 stars? Genuinely this was a good book and im so thankful its a duology because I HAVE QUESTIONS!! but I did think there was a small part in the middle where things were a little slow. Also there were a few parts where the reader was just made to accept things "because I said so". Now maybe if I knew more about Egyptian mythology prior to reading this book I'd have less gaps? Example: I dont think Samira asked enough questions about the color of her ruines. She just kind of accepted the unexpected and didn't ask enough questions on how that could/would affect her??
All in all I'd recommend this book and I'm very upset I have to wait an unhealthy amount of time to read the next book.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
** on netgalley this book was listed with "erotica" as one of its sub genres. To be clear dont pick up this book if you are looking for spice. There's like 1.5 sex scenes. Id give this a 🌶/5. BUT if you're here, stay for the longing and YEARNING. im choosing to believe the pay off in book 2 will be worth it 🤞🏽
MS ASHLEEEYYY PLEASE COME TO THE FRONT!!! hi, hello, okay now tell me... WHAT sort of crack did you put in this book?! I read it in like 2 days lol
As someone new to Egyptian mythology this book was so interesting. It was uniquely in its concept and execution.
Okay let's talk about a few people:
Samira- I loved her character growth. She was a kidnapped little girl that was taken and made a slave (or a "maid") in service to the princess/queen who also has the title God's Chosen. When the enemy invades the palace Amunet (the princess) demands that Samira impersonate her as part of Amunets escape plan. Subsequently Samira gets taken into enemy territory-- but her feelings grow conflicted when her life with the "enemy" is better than any life she's known before.
I liked watching as she transformed from maid/servant into her own being, using her voice and forming her own opinion. She became bold and outspoken.
Keir- yes! Hes a shifter (part bear and man) that makes the split decision to capture Gods Chosen (actually Samira) in order to try and save his land. His the second in command behind the King of Kaldfold and lissttteeeennn the tension that builds between him and Samira kept me up reading into the night lol
Amunet- okay now shes an interesting character. She has so many titles, princess/queen, God's Chosen, and daughter of Shaya (god of the underworld) it leaves you wondering who Amunet actually is. She battles with all of these identities and the want to just be loved and accepted for her. She makes questionable choices, some that are selfish and some that are driven from self preservation. Sometimes you love her and sometimes you hate her buuutt at the end I did feel like i understood her and thats the mark of a good character.
Jasim- I will be accepting no Jasim slander, thank you!
So why only 4.5 stars? Genuinely this was a good book and im so thankful its a duology because I HAVE QUESTIONS!! but I did think there was a small part in the middle where things were a little slow. Also there were a few parts where the reader was just made to accept things "because I said so". Now maybe if I knew more about Egyptian mythology prior to reading this book I'd have less gaps? Example: I dont think Samira asked enough questions about the color of her ruines. She just kind of accepted the unexpected and didn't ask enough questions on how that could/would affect her??
All in all I'd recommend this book and I'm very upset I have to wait an unhealthy amount of time to read the next book.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
** on netgalley this book was listed with "erotica" as one of its sub genres. To be clear dont pick up this book if you are looking for spice. There's like 1.5 sex scenes. Id give this a 🌶/5. BUT if you're here, stay for the longing and YEARNING. im choosing to believe the pay off in book 2 will be worth it 🤞🏽
January 4, 2026
This turned out to be a genuine five star read and one of the most refreshing entries I have read in the genre in quite a while. I finished it in less than 24 hours.
I received an advance reader copy through NetGalley. This title is currently available as a Read Now option and has an anticipated release date of June 2026.
I went into this book with fairly low expectations. In the past, my experience with Read Now titles has been mixed, and I assumed this would be a pleasant but forgettable romantasy, but that was absolutely not what happened.
The Shrouded Queen feels like a breath of fresh air in a romantasy space that has become saturated with medieval European settings and heavily recycled tropes. While this book does use familiar elements, it isn’t overbearing.
The story follows two parallel journeys. Samira, a slave forced to impersonate a princess after an attack on the royal palace, is captured by an enemy tribe of shifters and humans. Her captor Kier, who is a bear shifter, is the quintessential broody MMC. His character is probably the most formulaic of the story. Meanwhile, Amunet, the newly crowned queen, is on the run, accompanied by her guard and lover Jasim, as she races to claim powers tied to her divine lineage. These dual narratives go throughout the book.
There are two central romances, both open door but light on spice. Romance is clearly present with both FMCs, but it remains secondary to the fantasy plot.
The worldbuilding leans heavily into Egyptian, desert, and Middle Eastern inspired settings, complete with gods, jinn, and mythological elements and monsters.
One of the strongest aspects of this book is its female main characters. Samira and Amunet are imperfect, and their flaws are not smoothed over. They make questionable decisions and they grow in uneven ways. I can see some readers finding them annoying at times, but for me, that imperfection made their arcs feel authentic.
Mystery and secrecy drive much of the tension. I was consistently invested, not just in what would happen next, but in how the different plot threads would eventually intersect.
Overall, The Shrouded Queen is a standout romantasy that proves the genre can still surprise when authors are willing to take risks and go in different directions.
If you are looking for something that feels familiar yet genuinely fresh, this one is absolutely worth your time.
I received an advance reader copy through NetGalley. This title is currently available as a Read Now option and has an anticipated release date of June 2026.
I went into this book with fairly low expectations. In the past, my experience with Read Now titles has been mixed, and I assumed this would be a pleasant but forgettable romantasy, but that was absolutely not what happened.
The Shrouded Queen feels like a breath of fresh air in a romantasy space that has become saturated with medieval European settings and heavily recycled tropes. While this book does use familiar elements, it isn’t overbearing.
The story follows two parallel journeys. Samira, a slave forced to impersonate a princess after an attack on the royal palace, is captured by an enemy tribe of shifters and humans. Her captor Kier, who is a bear shifter, is the quintessential broody MMC. His character is probably the most formulaic of the story. Meanwhile, Amunet, the newly crowned queen, is on the run, accompanied by her guard and lover Jasim, as she races to claim powers tied to her divine lineage. These dual narratives go throughout the book.
There are two central romances, both open door but light on spice. Romance is clearly present with both FMCs, but it remains secondary to the fantasy plot.
The worldbuilding leans heavily into Egyptian, desert, and Middle Eastern inspired settings, complete with gods, jinn, and mythological elements and monsters.
One of the strongest aspects of this book is its female main characters. Samira and Amunet are imperfect, and their flaws are not smoothed over. They make questionable decisions and they grow in uneven ways. I can see some readers finding them annoying at times, but for me, that imperfection made their arcs feel authentic.
Mystery and secrecy drive much of the tension. I was consistently invested, not just in what would happen next, but in how the different plot threads would eventually intersect.
Overall, The Shrouded Queen is a standout romantasy that proves the genre can still surprise when authors are willing to take risks and go in different directions.
If you are looking for something that feels familiar yet genuinely fresh, this one is absolutely worth your time.
December 4, 2025
Book Review: The Shrouded Queen by Ashley Tropea
The Shrouded Queen begins with Samira, a young slave woman whose life has been carved into obedience and invisibility. When the palace collapses into chaos, she steps forward as a decoy queen expecting sacrifice, not survival. Instead, she is mistaken for the real princess and thrust into a labyrinth of political danger. Watching her navigate this world with nothing but instinct, fear, and pure grit becomes one of the most compelling parts of the novel. Her rise is jagged and vulnerable, yet undeniably powerful.
Beyond the palace walls, Amunet Khada, the rightful queen, flees into a wasteland shaped by betrayal and divine shadows. Her kingdom burns behind her. Her destiny feels heavy and unwieldy. In the early chapters she is difficult to root for, her flaws sharp and her remorse minimal. Yet her transformation, once it gathers momentum, is striking. She shifts from brittle entitlement to something far more complex and magnetic.
The dual narrative between Samira and Amunet is where the story finds its fullest depth. One rises from servitude. One rises from ruin. Their arcs twist around themes of identity, power, and survival, creating a rhythm that keeps you turning pages with a tightness in your chest. The mythology woven through their journeys adds atmosphere without overwhelming their emotional stakes.
There are moments when modern language brushes awkwardly against the ancient setting, but they flicker and pass. Tropea’s pacing moves quickly, and the story’s momentum absorbs the missteps. The plot twists arrive with bold, stormlike timing, each one reshaping the landscape the characters must navigate.
The Shrouded Queen is a myth-soaked, character-driven tale of two women forced to remake themselves in the aftermath of catastrophe. It carries the echo of a reverse Padmé scenario layered with magic, danger, and the heavy question of who deserves a crown. A bold and engaging fantasy that lingers after the final page.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC. This is my honest and unbiased review.
The Shrouded Queen begins with Samira, a young slave woman whose life has been carved into obedience and invisibility. When the palace collapses into chaos, she steps forward as a decoy queen expecting sacrifice, not survival. Instead, she is mistaken for the real princess and thrust into a labyrinth of political danger. Watching her navigate this world with nothing but instinct, fear, and pure grit becomes one of the most compelling parts of the novel. Her rise is jagged and vulnerable, yet undeniably powerful.
Beyond the palace walls, Amunet Khada, the rightful queen, flees into a wasteland shaped by betrayal and divine shadows. Her kingdom burns behind her. Her destiny feels heavy and unwieldy. In the early chapters she is difficult to root for, her flaws sharp and her remorse minimal. Yet her transformation, once it gathers momentum, is striking. She shifts from brittle entitlement to something far more complex and magnetic.
The dual narrative between Samira and Amunet is where the story finds its fullest depth. One rises from servitude. One rises from ruin. Their arcs twist around themes of identity, power, and survival, creating a rhythm that keeps you turning pages with a tightness in your chest. The mythology woven through their journeys adds atmosphere without overwhelming their emotional stakes.
There are moments when modern language brushes awkwardly against the ancient setting, but they flicker and pass. Tropea’s pacing moves quickly, and the story’s momentum absorbs the missteps. The plot twists arrive with bold, stormlike timing, each one reshaping the landscape the characters must navigate.
The Shrouded Queen is a myth-soaked, character-driven tale of two women forced to remake themselves in the aftermath of catastrophe. It carries the echo of a reverse Padmé scenario layered with magic, danger, and the heavy question of who deserves a crown. A bold and engaging fantasy that lingers after the final page.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC. This is my honest and unbiased review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This story is incredibly good. It has a large dose of mystery, mysticism, romance and incredibly complex and morally gray characters that are both incredibly easy to hate one second and empathize with the next. While at first each characters motivations seem simple and easy to decipher as the story continues we see the shades of gray the author has imbued in each of them. It is heart wrenching and frustrating but also deeply satisfying as a reader to see such complexities. I loved and hated this story but also wholeheartedly recommend this book because of it.
I loved the realism in the story as well. There are no polished heroes or heroines. When faced with impossible decisions or even death it is dealt with in a very human way that I appreciate. You can see their societies as broken and held together with sticks and paper which is pretty accurate with ancient societies which this story is inspired by. I would normally say a story like this has lots of character growth, which it does as a theme, but I think its up to the viewer/author to decide on that point I think.
Regardless, the book has themes of ancient societies like Egypt and the vikings (If they were a land based society), fate, pantheons and shape-shifter. It's very good if you can deal with morally gray characters with moral dillemas and I would highly recommend it.
I loved the realism in the story as well. There are no polished heroes or heroines. When faced with impossible decisions or even death it is dealt with in a very human way that I appreciate. You can see their societies as broken and held together with sticks and paper which is pretty accurate with ancient societies which this story is inspired by. I would normally say a story like this has lots of character growth, which it does as a theme, but I think its up to the viewer/author to decide on that point I think.
Regardless, the book has themes of ancient societies like Egypt and the vikings (If they were a land based society), fate, pantheons and shape-shifter. It's very good if you can deal with morally gray characters with moral dillemas and I would highly recommend it.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Spice: 🌶️.5
Tropes:
- Ancient Egypt and Viking inspired
- Yearning
- Dual narrative
- Princess and the pauper re-imagining
- Slow Burn
I will always read a book that has ancient Egyptian vibes, but throwing in Vikings too? YES PLEASE. When danger looms Amunet and her slave Samira switch places and the book follows both women as they try to navigate their new roles and hide the truth from everyone else. There’s tension, slow-burn romances for both Amunet and Samira, and beautifully described world that is truly immersive.
The middle part of the book got a little slow for me but otherwise the pacing was perfect! I do have a favorite character between the two women but I’ll let you decide for yourself who yours is! Absolutely recommend for anyone who loves a twist on Ancient Egyptian lore and history!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC, this is my honest review.
Spice: 🌶️.5
Tropes:
- Ancient Egypt and Viking inspired
- Yearning
- Dual narrative
- Princess and the pauper re-imagining
- Slow Burn
I will always read a book that has ancient Egyptian vibes, but throwing in Vikings too? YES PLEASE. When danger looms Amunet and her slave Samira switch places and the book follows both women as they try to navigate their new roles and hide the truth from everyone else. There’s tension, slow-burn romances for both Amunet and Samira, and beautifully described world that is truly immersive.
The middle part of the book got a little slow for me but otherwise the pacing was perfect! I do have a favorite character between the two women but I’ll let you decide for yourself who yours is! Absolutely recommend for anyone who loves a twist on Ancient Egyptian lore and history!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC, this is my honest review.
December 8, 2025
Ashley Tropea’s debut, The Shrouded Queen, is a compelling "princess switch" fantasy that breathes new life into ancient Egyptian mythology. The dual narrative follows Amunet, a queen on the run, and Samira, a slave forced to impersonate her, providing two equally strong and engaging journeys.
The world-building is superb—vibrant, atmospheric, and rich with seamless mythological integration. The slow-burn romance and menacing villains add high stakes and excellent tension, making it a true page-turner.
I docked one star purely for some minor pacing issues in the mid-section, which felt a little slow during lengthy political explanations and journeys.
Overall, it's a fantastic debut for fans of high-stakes, mythological romantasy. I highly recommend it and am eagerly waiting for the sequel!
The world-building is superb—vibrant, atmospheric, and rich with seamless mythological integration. The slow-burn romance and menacing villains add high stakes and excellent tension, making it a true page-turner.
I docked one star purely for some minor pacing issues in the mid-section, which felt a little slow during lengthy political explanations and journeys.
Overall, it's a fantastic debut for fans of high-stakes, mythological romantasy. I highly recommend it and am eagerly waiting for the sequel!
January 3, 2026
I requested and received this arc through NetGalley based on the intriguing synopsis. I believe the storyline has tremendous potential. Whenever fantasy stories are based on culturally specific mythology, I’m already so curious of how an author will write their rendition of it. Ashley did will in this area especially taking time to describe bits and pieces of the cultural aspects of her story without overdoing it.
Some of the language used in the story did throw me off and pull me back into modern time (e.g., “He’s actually just a cuddly bear.”) — when I think fantasy, I anticipate verbiage that puts me in an ancient time, different dimension, or something of dystopian relation. I’m hoping that the official published version will have some of those parts re-written.
Overall, 3.5/5 ⭐️ reads, and I am excited to read the official version of this book!
Some of the language used in the story did throw me off and pull me back into modern time (e.g., “He’s actually just a cuddly bear.”) — when I think fantasy, I anticipate verbiage that puts me in an ancient time, different dimension, or something of dystopian relation. I’m hoping that the official published version will have some of those parts re-written.
Overall, 3.5/5 ⭐️ reads, and I am excited to read the official version of this book!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is my first read of 2026 and it will be a tough one to top!
I personally loved reading this book! For a romantasy, we actually get to see more of the fantasy part in the forefront and I really appreciate that as a mainly fantasy reader.
I found myself completely sucked into the story with Samira and Amunet wondering what was going to happen to them next and if they would prevail in the end.
I also really enjoyed the glimpse into Egyptian mythology which was new to me.
My only problem with this book now is that it doesn't actually release until June and the next one even farther out!
Thank you so much to NetGalley for letting me read and review this as an advanced reader!
I personally loved reading this book! For a romantasy, we actually get to see more of the fantasy part in the forefront and I really appreciate that as a mainly fantasy reader.
I found myself completely sucked into the story with Samira and Amunet wondering what was going to happen to them next and if they would prevail in the end.
I also really enjoyed the glimpse into Egyptian mythology which was new to me.
My only problem with this book now is that it doesn't actually release until June and the next one even farther out!
Thank you so much to NetGalley for letting me read and review this as an advanced reader!
January 8, 2026
Egyptian mythology meets Vikings. Our two main characters are vastly different and I enjoyed how their separate journeys often paralleled each other. I thought that made for unique storytelling. Each character felt developed and had their own motivations. I loved how Amunet is not a good person and her thoughts and actions show that. I would love to see more characters like her. Samira struggles with trying to survive, but also learns so much about herself and the world outside the kingdom. The story has a healthy dose of intrigue, mystery, and romance to make it interesting. The pacing was great and I never felt that the story dragged. My one gripe is that certain phrases felt out of place but they didn’t detract from my overall enjoyment. I’m looking forward to the sequel! Thank you NetGalley for the arc.
November 20, 2025
5 ⭐️
At no point in time could I have guessed what was coming next while I was reading this book. If you liked the Ember in the Ashes series by Sabaa Tahir, you'll most likely enjoy this book because those were the vibes I got.
Thank you to NetGalley, Ashley Tropea, and Gallery Books for the ARC of The Shrouded Queen. This was a unique story that introduced us to Amunet Khada, Queen of Ashora, and her slave Samira. The Kaldfolk come and attack the Ashorans which prompts Amunet to go into hiding and Samira to take her place. I was immersed whilst reading the journey these two go on after being attacked and am looking forward to finding out what happens in the next book.
At no point in time could I have guessed what was coming next while I was reading this book. If you liked the Ember in the Ashes series by Sabaa Tahir, you'll most likely enjoy this book because those were the vibes I got.
Thank you to NetGalley, Ashley Tropea, and Gallery Books for the ARC of The Shrouded Queen. This was a unique story that introduced us to Amunet Khada, Queen of Ashora, and her slave Samira. The Kaldfolk come and attack the Ashorans which prompts Amunet to go into hiding and Samira to take her place. I was immersed whilst reading the journey these two go on after being attacked and am looking forward to finding out what happens in the next book.
November 29, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I really enjoyed this book. The author did a fantastic job crafting two distinct perspectives through the dual FMC storyline. I’m a sucker for anything set in ancient Egypt, and this book delivered on that front beautifully.
While I’d classify this more as fantasy with romantic elements rather than true romantasy, I loved that balance. The world-building felt immersive without letting romance overshadow the plot. The pacing was excellent—engaging from start to finish without any lag. I found myself genuinely invested in both characters’ journeys and couldn’t wait to see how their stories unfolded.
A compelling read that I’d definitely recommend to fans of Egyptian-inspired fantasy.
I really enjoyed this book. The author did a fantastic job crafting two distinct perspectives through the dual FMC storyline. I’m a sucker for anything set in ancient Egypt, and this book delivered on that front beautifully.
While I’d classify this more as fantasy with romantic elements rather than true romantasy, I loved that balance. The world-building felt immersive without letting romance overshadow the plot. The pacing was excellent—engaging from start to finish without any lag. I found myself genuinely invested in both characters’ journeys and couldn’t wait to see how their stories unfolded.
A compelling read that I’d definitely recommend to fans of Egyptian-inspired fantasy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.5 Stars!
Thank you NetGalley and the Publisher for this ARC~
This book pulled me in right from the start. It’s told in dual POV, and while I struggled with some of the characters at times, I really appreciated how layered they were. I was fully emotionally invested and needed to know what happened next! Some of the storylines (Jassim!) had me tearing up, and the ending left me with so many questions. I’m already counting down until the next book.
Small caveat: some of the language felt a little too modern for the setting, which pulled me out of the story a bit.
Thank you NetGalley and the Publisher for this ARC~
This book pulled me in right from the start. It’s told in dual POV, and while I struggled with some of the characters at times, I really appreciated how layered they were. I was fully emotionally invested and needed to know what happened next! Some of the storylines (Jassim!) had me tearing up, and the ending left me with so many questions. I’m already counting down until the next book.
Small caveat: some of the language felt a little too modern for the setting, which pulled me out of the story a bit.
October 28, 2025
Ashley’s writing is unmatched. I’ve had the privilege of reading her books and even her T.V. scripts for years now and I am so excited to read the finished product of The Shrouded Queen. Ashley can write anything, and I mean anything, but where she shines is creating strong well rounded female leads, fully realized worlds, and amazing romantic storylines that will keep you hooked the entire time. I can’t wait for this book!
December 13, 2025
Egyptian mythology meets Vikings? Yes please! This book is incredible, super addictive and I wish I could read the sequel already.
The characters are so amazing! The women are strong and the men are HOT! I can’t wait to see where this goes next.
The ending was incredible! This story already sounded amazing from the blurb, but the actual book itself was so much better.
Thank you to Netgalley and Gallery Books for the arc.
The characters are so amazing! The women are strong and the men are HOT! I can’t wait to see where this goes next.
The ending was incredible! This story already sounded amazing from the blurb, but the actual book itself was so much better.
Thank you to Netgalley and Gallery Books for the arc.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
⭐ Fantasy | Adult | Political Intrigue
Thank you to Gallery Books for this ARC in exchange for my honest review!
The Shrouded Queen follows two women bound by power and sacrifice: Queen Amunet and her slave, Samira. When a kidnapping threat looms, the two switch places in an effort to protect the queen,setting off a tense and dangerous chain of events. Both women have their own romantic interests woven into the story, adding another layer of complexity to their already fraught situation.
I found myself far more invested in Samira’s point of view. Her extreme self-sacrifice for the queen is difficult to fathom, especially since she consistently places Amunet’s safety above her own needs and desires. In contrast, Queen Amunet often comes across as selfish, prioritizing her own survival and comfort over the well-being of others. This imbalance made their dynamic frustrating at times, but also compelling.
One of the biggest joys of the book was the suspense, waiting to see when and how others would realize they were dealing with a decoy rather than the real queen. The story includes adult content such as sex, violence, and magic, so readers should be aware going in.
I also enjoyed the characters Keir and Velka, who added intrigue and emotional depth. The ending leaves things open in a way that makes you want to immediately continue the series to see what consequences unfold next. Overall, The Shrouded Queen is a dark, tension-filled fantasy that explores power, loyalty, and the cost of devotion.
Thank you to Gallery Books for this ARC in exchange for my honest review!
The Shrouded Queen follows two women bound by power and sacrifice: Queen Amunet and her slave, Samira. When a kidnapping threat looms, the two switch places in an effort to protect the queen,setting off a tense and dangerous chain of events. Both women have their own romantic interests woven into the story, adding another layer of complexity to their already fraught situation.
I found myself far more invested in Samira’s point of view. Her extreme self-sacrifice for the queen is difficult to fathom, especially since she consistently places Amunet’s safety above her own needs and desires. In contrast, Queen Amunet often comes across as selfish, prioritizing her own survival and comfort over the well-being of others. This imbalance made their dynamic frustrating at times, but also compelling.
One of the biggest joys of the book was the suspense, waiting to see when and how others would realize they were dealing with a decoy rather than the real queen. The story includes adult content such as sex, violence, and magic, so readers should be aware going in.
I also enjoyed the characters Keir and Velka, who added intrigue and emotional depth. The ending leaves things open in a way that makes you want to immediately continue the series to see what consequences unfold next. Overall, The Shrouded Queen is a dark, tension-filled fantasy that explores power, loyalty, and the cost of devotion.
October 25, 2025
Mark my words, this will be THE big romantasy of 2026. Incredible world building, slow burn for days, and twists you will not see coming. Completely obsessed, and cannot wait for everyone else to become equally obsessed!!
January 6, 2026
What an amazing book! Literally couldn’t put it down! The two main characters were juxtaposed well and expertly developed. Can’t wait for the second!
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