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The Shrouded Queen
In 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?
Kindle Edition
First published June 16, 2026
About the author
Ashley Tropea
4 books129 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 - 30 of 219 reviews
January 25, 2026
Thank you NetGalley and Gallery Books for the ARC in exchange for my own opinion.
The problem with stories like this is that they have been done multiple times in different variations. Think A Fate Blooded in Ink for an example. So quite literally, I knew where this story was going and who Samira was by 10% of this book. Now it’s not always a bad thing to know what’s going to happen by the end of the book and it can be enjoyable seeing how the character gets to that point (think the Hobbit) but that only works if the writing and characters are strong. That’s where this book falls flat for me.
Samira and Amunet are the two main characters in this duel point of view book. Samira is personally the more interesting point of view versus Amunet but they both fall so flat to me as they are very one sided: Amunet dancing around if she’s good or bad and Samira being loyal to Amunet. The side characters are NPCs that don’t hold any value and are just there randomly existing. I kept asking myself if this character wasn’t there, would anything change and honestly nothing would have changed in an impactful way. Out of the handful of side characters we meet, only 3 hold any value.
Usually I am very chill when it comes to writing but when the book takes place in a fantasy setting that takes inspiration from Egypt and Scandinavia countries, you can’t use modern words like twin bed or even quoting what the definition of insanity. It’s jarring and pulls the reader out of the world you are building. Secondly, there is a lot of character inconsistency with Samira and some with Amunet (the princess knowing the definition of insanity and what a twin bed is),but mainly with Samira. Samira shouldn’t know how to swim as we are given no inclination to believe that she can, yet she can. How does she know what a whale and shark are when she comes from a desert? I don’t know, but she does. She’s a slave who’s allowed to eat cow yet she comes from a kingdom where water is rare and sacred. Do you know it takes ALOT of water to raise cattle especially in arid biomes so that means cow meat should be a delicacy not something a slave should be eating. The lack of drinking water and how it’s sacred is an important component in this world and you can see that from Amunets point of view when she is dealing the Princes but besides that, there was no follow through and felt forgettable until the author realized that and then just threw something small in to cover that negligence.
The constant inconsistencies is why I am marking this book 2 stars. Everything (the romance, the character, and the world) just felt shallow and not fully thought out.
The problem with stories like this is that they have been done multiple times in different variations. Think A Fate Blooded in Ink for an example. So quite literally, I knew where this story was going and who Samira was by 10% of this book. Now it’s not always a bad thing to know what’s going to happen by the end of the book and it can be enjoyable seeing how the character gets to that point (think the Hobbit) but that only works if the writing and characters are strong. That’s where this book falls flat for me.
Samira and Amunet are the two main characters in this duel point of view book. Samira is personally the more interesting point of view versus Amunet but they both fall so flat to me as they are very one sided: Amunet dancing around if she’s good or bad and Samira being loyal to Amunet. The side characters are NPCs that don’t hold any value and are just there randomly existing. I kept asking myself if this character wasn’t there, would anything change and honestly nothing would have changed in an impactful way. Out of the handful of side characters we meet, only 3 hold any value.
Usually I am very chill when it comes to writing but when the book takes place in a fantasy setting that takes inspiration from Egypt and Scandinavia countries, you can’t use modern words like twin bed or even quoting what the definition of insanity. It’s jarring and pulls the reader out of the world you are building. Secondly, there is a lot of character inconsistency with Samira and some with Amunet (the princess knowing the definition of insanity and what a twin bed is),but mainly with Samira. Samira shouldn’t know how to swim as we are given no inclination to believe that she can, yet she can. How does she know what a whale and shark are when she comes from a desert? I don’t know, but she does. She’s a slave who’s allowed to eat cow yet she comes from a kingdom where water is rare and sacred. Do you know it takes ALOT of water to raise cattle especially in arid biomes so that means cow meat should be a delicacy not something a slave should be eating. The lack of drinking water and how it’s sacred is an important component in this world and you can see that from Amunets point of view when she is dealing the Princes but besides that, there was no follow through and felt forgettable until the author realized that and then just threw something small in to cover that negligence.
The constant inconsistencies is why I am marking this book 2 stars. Everything (the romance, the character, and the world) just felt shallow and not fully thought out.
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.
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.
January 24, 2026
Thanks to NetGalley for an ARC of this book.
This book follows Samira and Amunet after King Zaid is murdered following an invasion of the Kaldfolk.
This was an interesting story and I did enjoy the Egyptian themes, imagery, and mythology. But I did keep getting thrown off as the author tends to use modern sayings/verbiage while trying to convey a setting that is not modern.
The imagery was very bleak, I had a hard time picturing much of this world as I felt the descriptions were very mild and lackluster.
Most of the characters felt a little flat. Like Samira spends the entire book acting like a doormat to everyone only to, in the end, do a complete 180. Amunet is a roller coaster of “I’m a good person, I’m an evil person”. Most of the Kaldfolk feel like they’re merely NPCs: there just to fill in space and really don’t add much to the overall story.
The twist at the end I could see coming from very early in the book as it was obvious what the entire story was building towards. Wish there had either been less buildup, or a twist that wasn’t seen coming.
Overall, it was a good story, unique concept, and original imagery with the Egyptian influences.
This book follows Samira and Amunet after King Zaid is murdered following an invasion of the Kaldfolk.
This was an interesting story and I did enjoy the Egyptian themes, imagery, and mythology. But I did keep getting thrown off as the author tends to use modern sayings/verbiage while trying to convey a setting that is not modern.
The imagery was very bleak, I had a hard time picturing much of this world as I felt the descriptions were very mild and lackluster.
Most of the characters felt a little flat. Like Samira spends the entire book acting like a doormat to everyone only to, in the end, do a complete 180. Amunet is a roller coaster of “I’m a good person, I’m an evil person”. Most of the Kaldfolk feel like they’re merely NPCs: there just to fill in space and really don’t add much to the overall story.
The twist at the end I could see coming from very early in the book as it was obvious what the entire story was building towards. Wish there had either been less buildup, or a twist that wasn’t seen coming.
Overall, it was a good story, unique concept, and original imagery with the Egyptian influences.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Want to Read
June 1, 2026Pre Read:
June BOTM early Release! This sounds super interesting! Love a hidden identity plotline!
June BOTM early Release! This sounds super interesting! Love a hidden identity plotline!
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!
May 9, 2026
I love anything about Egyptian history so I was intrigued to try this dual POV about a queen and her slave making their way in a harsh world, but this one didn't quite work for me.
Normally I am fine with multiple POVs because I'm used to them in fantasy, but in this case I found the storyline of Queen Amunet detracted from the main plot. I was expecting an unlikable character but we open with her waterboarding her servant for drinking from a forbidden pool when she can't even keep her servants fed, then she leaves her enslaved maid for dead as a decoy when the palace is attacked by bear shifters. And she can't even remember her maid's name at the end of the book.
She was cruel, arrogant and capricious, and a very flat and boring character. And don't get me started on her love story. I am glad this was not a master/slave romance because that was not clear from the synopsis. She instead had a situationship with her devoted guard, treating him cruelly at every turn, even at one point intending to sacrifice him to her god. She was selfish, spoiled and entitled. She treated Jasim with such emotional whiplash that I was begging for them to break up. And this is called a romantic duology and not a romance, but still, I am tired of so-called romances where the love interest is killed at the end, even in a duology. Jasim deserved better.
I did appreciate how this book didn't romanticize ancient Egypt and showed its casual cruelty instead of sanitizing it.
I liked Samira's arc the best. She was a compelling character, a slave who took back her own power and found a place with the Kadfolk, a clan of bear shifters. Her romance with her watcher, Keir, was lovely and a proper slow burn. I loved the two of them together. I might possibly read the second book because I loved her story so much, but I hated Amunet so much that I probably won't.
I also guessed the twist at the end early on; too predictable.
So sadly this one wasn't for me.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the advance review copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Normally I am fine with multiple POVs because I'm used to them in fantasy, but in this case I found the storyline of Queen Amunet detracted from the main plot. I was expecting an unlikable character but we open with her waterboarding her servant for drinking from a forbidden pool when she can't even keep her servants fed, then she leaves her enslaved maid for dead as a decoy when the palace is attacked by bear shifters. And she can't even remember her maid's name at the end of the book.
She was cruel, arrogant and capricious, and a very flat and boring character. And don't get me started on her love story. I am glad this was not a master/slave romance because that was not clear from the synopsis. She instead had a situationship with her devoted guard, treating him cruelly at every turn, even at one point intending to sacrifice him to her god. She was selfish, spoiled and entitled. She treated Jasim with such emotional whiplash that I was begging for them to break up. And this is called a romantic duology and not a romance, but still, I am tired of so-called romances where the love interest is killed at the end, even in a duology. Jasim deserved better.
I did appreciate how this book didn't romanticize ancient Egypt and showed its casual cruelty instead of sanitizing it.
I liked Samira's arc the best. She was a compelling character, a slave who took back her own power and found a place with the Kadfolk, a clan of bear shifters. Her romance with her watcher, Keir, was lovely and a proper slow burn. I loved the two of them together. I might possibly read the second book because I loved her story so much, but I hated Amunet so much that I probably won't.
I also guessed the twist at the end early on; too predictable.
So sadly this one wasn't for me.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the advance review copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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 😤
June 25, 2026
I had such high hopes for this book. I was sorely disappointed. It was just ok. Good in some parts but dragged on in others. It has taken me over a week to read and I do not like when a book does that. If it held my attention and kept me wanting to get back to it that would be different. This one was just not what I had hoped for.
Two girls. One a princess and the other her slave. A mean cruel princess at that.
Amunet Khada is a princess. When the kingdom is overrun and her father is killed she becomes queen. I tried to like Amunet a few times but she was just not likable.
Samira is Amunet's slave. Amunet has been very cruel to her. Samira seems to think it's ok for her princess to treat her this way. Food and water are both very scarce and a slave can be killed if caught stealing either. Seems they go a long time without either.
When the kingdom is overrun Amunet leaves Samira to stand in her place. To be taken.
Now you get to see what happens to each of these girls. What all they go through and how they survive. Or don't survive....
This was a well written story. It could have been a very good one for me. It was just to slow. A very slow burn. At least for me. It is part love story. A shifter story. A princess/queen/imposter story. There is a lot going on. Fairly easy to follow but when things happened at the end I was caught off guard. I still don't get it. Who was the man. Why was Samira taken.
I really didn't enjoy this one. It was a BOTM choice too.
Thank you Gallery Books for this ARC.
Two girls. One a princess and the other her slave. A mean cruel princess at that.
Amunet Khada is a princess. When the kingdom is overrun and her father is killed she becomes queen. I tried to like Amunet a few times but she was just not likable.
Samira is Amunet's slave. Amunet has been very cruel to her. Samira seems to think it's ok for her princess to treat her this way. Food and water are both very scarce and a slave can be killed if caught stealing either. Seems they go a long time without either.
When the kingdom is overrun Amunet leaves Samira to stand in her place. To be taken.
Now you get to see what happens to each of these girls. What all they go through and how they survive. Or don't survive....
This was a well written story. It could have been a very good one for me. It was just to slow. A very slow burn. At least for me. It is part love story. A shifter story. A princess/queen/imposter story. There is a lot going on. Fairly easy to follow but when things happened at the end I was caught off guard. I still don't get it. Who was the man. Why was Samira taken.
I really didn't enjoy this one. It was a BOTM choice too.
Thank you Gallery Books for this ARC.
March 11, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Ashley Tropea for an ARC copy.
This book is creative and surprising. I loved following the path of the two female main characters, one a princess and one a slave. They are brought up in the same palace but when it is attacked one day they are forced to leave. The two women’s goals begin in sync but each decision could change the fate of everything and themselves along the way.
Some things that I loved:
•The world was a fresh mix of historical & mythological
•The magic was unique and interesting
•It was not predictable
•The cliffhanger at the end left me wanting more.
This book is creative and surprising. I loved following the path of the two female main characters, one a princess and one a slave. They are brought up in the same palace but when it is attacked one day they are forced to leave. The two women’s goals begin in sync but each decision could change the fate of everything and themselves along the way.
Some things that I loved:
•The world was a fresh mix of historical & mythological
•The magic was unique and interesting
•It was not predictable
•The cliffhanger at the end left me wanting more.
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!
June 15, 2026
this book isn’t even released yet but i already need book 2
June 13, 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.
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.
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.
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!
February 19, 2026
This was absolutely bizarre
June 18, 2026
4 ⭐️
This is a debut romantasy that blends Egyptian mythology-inspired worldbuilding with Viking influence and a classic captor/captive romance setup. And yes...if you’ve been around the romantasy genre for a while, you’ll probably recognize some familiar tropes here. I’ve seen some reviews saying its “just another repeat of other romantasy books”. While I don’t fully disagree with that sentiment, I also don’t think that tells the whole story.
What Tropea does well is take those familiar building blocks and make them feel like something new again. The world itself is richly imagined and clearly rooted in Egyptian mythology, which gives the story a distinct atmosphere that sets it apart from more generic fantasy settings. It doesn’t feel like a recycled backdrop, it feels intentionally crafted, like there’s real lore underneath everything you’re being shown.
I especially enjoyed the inclusion of shapeshifters and the “Gods-chosen” storyline, which added tension and higher stakes that kept me genuinely invested in where things were headed. Those elements helped elevate what could have been a standard romantasy plot into something with more weight and intrigue.
That said, the pacing toward the end felt a bit overloaded. A lot of developments are packed into the final stretch, and I would have preferred a more evenly paced conclusion rather than so many threads converging at once. It didn’t ruin the experience for me, but it did make the ending feel slightly rushed compared to the strong worldbuilding earlier on.
Overall, The Shrouded Queen is a promising debut that may lean on familiar tropes but still manages to carve out its own identity through mythology driven worldbuilding and high-stakes fantasy elements. I’m definitely intrigued enough to continue with the series, and I’m looking forward to seeing how things expand in book two.
This is a debut romantasy that blends Egyptian mythology-inspired worldbuilding with Viking influence and a classic captor/captive romance setup. And yes...if you’ve been around the romantasy genre for a while, you’ll probably recognize some familiar tropes here. I’ve seen some reviews saying its “just another repeat of other romantasy books”. While I don’t fully disagree with that sentiment, I also don’t think that tells the whole story.
What Tropea does well is take those familiar building blocks and make them feel like something new again. The world itself is richly imagined and clearly rooted in Egyptian mythology, which gives the story a distinct atmosphere that sets it apart from more generic fantasy settings. It doesn’t feel like a recycled backdrop, it feels intentionally crafted, like there’s real lore underneath everything you’re being shown.
I especially enjoyed the inclusion of shapeshifters and the “Gods-chosen” storyline, which added tension and higher stakes that kept me genuinely invested in where things were headed. Those elements helped elevate what could have been a standard romantasy plot into something with more weight and intrigue.
That said, the pacing toward the end felt a bit overloaded. A lot of developments are packed into the final stretch, and I would have preferred a more evenly paced conclusion rather than so many threads converging at once. It didn’t ruin the experience for me, but it did make the ending feel slightly rushed compared to the strong worldbuilding earlier on.
Overall, The Shrouded Queen is a promising debut that may lean on familiar tropes but still manages to carve out its own identity through mythology driven worldbuilding and high-stakes fantasy elements. I’m definitely intrigued enough to continue with the series, and I’m looking forward to seeing how things expand in book two.
June 23, 2026
✨ARC Review✨
Thank you to NetGalley and Gallery Books for the ARC opportunity!
I had the feeling it was going to be a good read. A story set in ancient Egypt featuring a unique magic system, Egyptian mythology, and Vikings? Plus a romantic subplot? I couldn’t resist. Ashley Tropea does such a beautiful job of weaving this tapestry of story, which explores themes like trust, entitlement, worth, and different forms of love. It felt like one of the myths itself!
I think I was about 80% in before I remembered that this was the first book in a duology! Which, I’m not too upset about because I get to explore this lush world further!
Amunet Khada is a princess and a gods chosen aka a child born of one of Egypt’s deities. As she awaits to come into the power her father Shaya, god of the underworld, will bestow upon her, the palace is attacked and she finds herself Ashorah’s newly named queen and on the run with her bodyguard Jashim. Samira, a slave and her devoted maid must serve as her decoy. Except, the Kaldfolk from a neighboring city also need Amunet and have unknowingly abducted the wrong queen.
In this historical romantic fantasy we get dual POVs; following both FMCs along their journeys. For me, Samira’s story was far more enthralling and I spent most of my read teetering between feeling understanding or frustrated with Samira for her devotion to Amunet and loathing Amunet for the horrible person she is (don’t let anyone convince you otherwise!😂😂).
I did see the ending coming, but it was handled in a way that left me curious for the explanation in book 2. Please read The Shrouded Queen. It’s so good! I was so lucky to receive such a banger as an ARC!
Thank you to NetGalley and Gallery Books for the ARC opportunity!
I had the feeling it was going to be a good read. A story set in ancient Egypt featuring a unique magic system, Egyptian mythology, and Vikings? Plus a romantic subplot? I couldn’t resist. Ashley Tropea does such a beautiful job of weaving this tapestry of story, which explores themes like trust, entitlement, worth, and different forms of love. It felt like one of the myths itself!
I think I was about 80% in before I remembered that this was the first book in a duology! Which, I’m not too upset about because I get to explore this lush world further!
Amunet Khada is a princess and a gods chosen aka a child born of one of Egypt’s deities. As she awaits to come into the power her father Shaya, god of the underworld, will bestow upon her, the palace is attacked and she finds herself Ashorah’s newly named queen and on the run with her bodyguard Jashim. Samira, a slave and her devoted maid must serve as her decoy. Except, the Kaldfolk from a neighboring city also need Amunet and have unknowingly abducted the wrong queen.
In this historical romantic fantasy we get dual POVs; following both FMCs along their journeys. For me, Samira’s story was far more enthralling and I spent most of my read teetering between feeling understanding or frustrated with Samira for her devotion to Amunet and loathing Amunet for the horrible person she is (don’t let anyone convince you otherwise!😂😂).
I did see the ending coming, but it was handled in a way that left me curious for the explanation in book 2. Please read The Shrouded Queen. It’s so good! I was so lucky to receive such a banger as an ARC!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 16, 2026
4.3/5!!!
I really love Egypian inspired books and this one really hit all of the fantasy and romance vibes that I was looking for while still getting that Egyptian spirit in there.
I really enjoyed reading Samira's storyline the most, seeing how she kept her identity secret and how she handled the shifters that she met along the way. I think I would have given an even higher rating if the twist at the end was different. I did not like Samira's actions at the end and the revelation of her identity left a little bit to be desired for me, but I will definitely be reading book 2!
If you are looking for a somewhat spicy Egyptian inspired romantasy with hidden magic and identities, this will be right up your alley!
I really love Egypian inspired books and this one really hit all of the fantasy and romance vibes that I was looking for while still getting that Egyptian spirit in there.
I really enjoyed reading Samira's storyline the most, seeing how she kept her identity secret and how she handled the shifters that she met along the way. I think I would have given an even higher rating if the twist at the end was different. I did not like Samira's actions at the end and the revelation of her identity left a little bit to be desired for me, but I will definitely be reading book 2!
If you are looking for a somewhat spicy Egyptian inspired romantasy with hidden magic and identities, this will be right up your alley!
June 9, 2026
Should’ve just DNF’d this. I wonder if there will be a second book because of the ending, but even then I won’t be reading it.
I had to slog through this and expected some major payoff. Nope, nothing of the sort.
I had to slog through this and expected some major payoff. Nope, nothing of the sort.
June 21, 2026
This is my first Fantasy book I’ve read so based on that I’m not entirely sure how to rate this but all I can say is that I did enjoy the experience of reading this book, it was easy to understand and I was interested in seeing what came next! I think I have been intimidated by fantasy novels being too complex or hard to understand but this is a perfect fantasy book to start with because it was easy to read and a lot of fun! I will definitely read the second book and even though it was sort of obvious what was coming there was a point at the end that left my jaw on the floor…
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!
June 15, 2026
Started strong then lost me. Ending was disappointing 🥴
Read
June 19, 2026V interesting premise with Egyptian mythology and slave and queen swap but it felt a bit too slow in the beginning for me personally. Thanks NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
June 23, 2026
This book had some of the typical romantasy tropes but with some new elements and twists that I didn’t expect. I enjoyed it a lot and don’t want to have to wait to know what happens next!!
June 24, 2026
Not sure both POVs were necessary or really even added value
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I feel like this is happening a lot for me lately, and I think it goes to the bigger conversation around women authors' fantasy books being classified as romantasy when the same book by a male author would not be. So I say this for anyone looking at/considering this book: if you are looking for a great female-led fantasy, this is it. If you're looking for an epic (or really even built) romance, this is not it. Tbh, if this is supposed to have a romance, I could not even tell you who it is supposed to be between. But the fantasy plot is intriguing enough that, as someone who also loves just general fantasy, I do not care and largely enjoyed the book.
This story follows two characters, Samira and Amunet. One a slave and one, shortly into the events of the story, a queen. Samira was taken from her home when she was around six years old and was thrust into service as one of the slave attendants to Amunet, the God-Chosen (effectively, a demigod) who is the daughter of Shaya, the god of death. Amunet is an absolutely brutal royal, and our first introduction to her is through Samira watching her waterboard someone for swimming in the river. Samira has dedicated her life to serving this complete (w)itch, and her heart is fully in it too. Amunet, on the other hand, has no idea who Samira is apart from being one of her hoard of slaves.
Shortly after our introduction to these two, and a short while before Amunet is set to come into her magic, the palace is attacked by the Kald, a group that was banished by the king more than a decade ago and who can shift into bears. They kill the king and all the other royals but, thankfully, a warning comes to Amunet before they can get to her. Between Amunet, her attendants, and her guards, it is determined that Samira looks enough like Amunet that they can quickly dress Samira up as her and whisk Amunet out of the palace in time for the Kald to kill Samira in her place.
Too bad for Amunet, they are wrong about that and the Kald abduct Samira instead and bring her back to their current home. I say current home because all of the Kald villages have been slowly encroached upon by the Shroud, which appears to be a breakthrough to the realm of the dead. It has been calling some of their people and completely obliterating others. Those who come back are mad or have agonizing damage done to their bodies and, as a Gods-Chosen, they need the help of Amunet to push it back. Samira chooses to pretend to be Amunet to buy time for Amunet's magic day in the hopes that Amunet will save everyone and everything after that date.
Meanwhile, Amunet is on a quest with one of her guards to get to Shaya's temple in the Wastelands. No one has been through them and survived except for the king when he first made the deal with Shaya to give him a daughter. To do that, she will have to make her way through or past several other kingdoms who all want their place along the river back, which was stolen by the king many years ago.
While there are several characters clearly "of note," three of which I guess have the potential to be romantasy MMC's, I don't feel that any of them, or really any of the other characters, are developed enough to be more than just really plot devices. All of them get very minimal development and I'm not sure whether that is just poor planning for the story, if it is because both Samira and Amunet are intended to be completely self-centered, or if they are just side characters for a hero's journey but, in any event, it means that relationships are not central to this story. It is all action, world-building, and internal turmoil/"know thyself" events for our two main characters.
Overall, much more happens with Samira in this book and, with where it ends up, I am hoping Amunet will end up being the petty but brutal villain in the next book that I was kinda hoping she would be.
Thank you to NetGalley, Gallery Books, and Ashley Tropea for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
This story follows two characters, Samira and Amunet. One a slave and one, shortly into the events of the story, a queen. Samira was taken from her home when she was around six years old and was thrust into service as one of the slave attendants to Amunet, the God-Chosen (effectively, a demigod) who is the daughter of Shaya, the god of death. Amunet is an absolutely brutal royal, and our first introduction to her is through Samira watching her waterboard someone for swimming in the river. Samira has dedicated her life to serving this complete (w)itch, and her heart is fully in it too. Amunet, on the other hand, has no idea who Samira is apart from being one of her hoard of slaves.
Shortly after our introduction to these two, and a short while before Amunet is set to come into her magic, the palace is attacked by the Kald, a group that was banished by the king more than a decade ago and who can shift into bears. They kill the king and all the other royals but, thankfully, a warning comes to Amunet before they can get to her. Between Amunet, her attendants, and her guards, it is determined that Samira looks enough like Amunet that they can quickly dress Samira up as her and whisk Amunet out of the palace in time for the Kald to kill Samira in her place.
Too bad for Amunet, they are wrong about that and the Kald abduct Samira instead and bring her back to their current home. I say current home because all of the Kald villages have been slowly encroached upon by the Shroud, which appears to be a breakthrough to the realm of the dead. It has been calling some of their people and completely obliterating others. Those who come back are mad or have agonizing damage done to their bodies and, as a Gods-Chosen, they need the help of Amunet to push it back. Samira chooses to pretend to be Amunet to buy time for Amunet's magic day in the hopes that Amunet will save everyone and everything after that date.
Meanwhile, Amunet is on a quest with one of her guards to get to Shaya's temple in the Wastelands. No one has been through them and survived except for the king when he first made the deal with Shaya to give him a daughter. To do that, she will have to make her way through or past several other kingdoms who all want their place along the river back, which was stolen by the king many years ago.
While there are several characters clearly "of note," three of which I guess have the potential to be romantasy MMC's, I don't feel that any of them, or really any of the other characters, are developed enough to be more than just really plot devices. All of them get very minimal development and I'm not sure whether that is just poor planning for the story, if it is because both Samira and Amunet are intended to be completely self-centered, or if they are just side characters for a hero's journey but, in any event, it means that relationships are not central to this story. It is all action, world-building, and internal turmoil/"know thyself" events for our two main characters.
Overall, much more happens with Samira in this book and, with where it ends up, I am hoping Amunet will end up being the petty but brutal villain in the next book that I was kinda hoping she would be.
Thank you to NetGalley, Gallery Books, and Ashley Tropea for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Gallery Books for the eARC via NetGalley. I grabbed this as a Read Now.
I think really this rates as somewhere around 2.5 stars for me.
Objectively this is not a bad book, and I can easily see other really enjoying this book. But for me, it was a miss.
Somehow, this book did not meet the expectations I had for it based on the summary and the cover. You have the hieroglyphs, the runes, and the name of The Shrouded Queen. The idea of what is essentially a stunt double to protect one's queen while being put through a dangerous set of trials; meanwhile, the queen is on the run. Every suggestion told me that this was going to be right up my alley.
But there were some issues I had with this book.
First off, there are two MFCs: Samira, the slave, and Amunet, the queen. The story is two from both of their POVs in first person, and this is where I started to have issues. Each of their voices seem too similar to one another, making it difficult to tell one character from the other from time to time. I never really felt like I understood either of these girls. What I did get from them both was that they were, to me at least, unlikeable. Amunet comes on strong with her queenly ego and her "everyone is beneath me and I can do anything I want" vibes, so from the very first time we meet her on page, I disliked her. And while her overall character arc started to seem promising, it was never consistent in where it was heading, much like the story overall (more on that in a bit). Samira, on the other hand, is constantly in her own head, either indoctrinated to the max to serve her queen no matter what, or wondering when and how she will ultimately die, and fearing that time. And while I get where she's coming from, the repetitiveness of these thoughts so frequently started to irk me after a while.
Then we get to the story itself. Again, based on the cover, and based on the marketing, I expected far more clear Egyptian and Norse influence on page... but it felt like it was just a whisper, a nod at each culture while going off and doing its own thing, which was disappointing. I really wish there had been a more noticeable appearance of both cultures and how they tie into this story.
And the plot? I have no idea what happened there. The pacing overall felt slow, and by the time we got halfway in was when I realized this was likely book one in a series. But even then, we only JUST cover everything that is noted in the summary, literally down to the last page to do so. Some of the plot points that did occur felt a little underwhelming at times, and the ending was incredibly unsatisfying as a cliffhanger, leaving way too much open ended, and not enough to make me want to come back for the next book. One of my early notes while reading says "curious story so far, though I have no idea where this is going", and honestly, I feel like I still don't.
Then we get to the romance, which was overall a VERY slow burn for Samira and Keir. And had I know that this book was basically going to be a shifter romance, I would never have picked it up, as that is very much not up my alley, and so I did not enjoy reading the romance that is on page for these two. And I struggled to grasp at the chemistry between them most of the time.
Overall, this book was giving similar vibes as Alexandra Kennington's Blood Beneath the Snow and LJ Andrews' Broken Souls and Bones, both of which I also struggled with. But if you enjoyed those books, then you might really enjoy this one.
For me, with all the issues I had with this story, it struggled to hold my attention and I too easily kept putting it down. And while I did ultimately finish it, I don't think I'm interested enough to pick up the next book.
I think really this rates as somewhere around 2.5 stars for me.
Objectively this is not a bad book, and I can easily see other really enjoying this book. But for me, it was a miss.
Somehow, this book did not meet the expectations I had for it based on the summary and the cover. You have the hieroglyphs, the runes, and the name of The Shrouded Queen. The idea of what is essentially a stunt double to protect one's queen while being put through a dangerous set of trials; meanwhile, the queen is on the run. Every suggestion told me that this was going to be right up my alley.
But there were some issues I had with this book.
First off, there are two MFCs: Samira, the slave, and Amunet, the queen. The story is two from both of their POVs in first person, and this is where I started to have issues. Each of their voices seem too similar to one another, making it difficult to tell one character from the other from time to time. I never really felt like I understood either of these girls. What I did get from them both was that they were, to me at least, unlikeable. Amunet comes on strong with her queenly ego and her "everyone is beneath me and I can do anything I want" vibes, so from the very first time we meet her on page, I disliked her. And while her overall character arc started to seem promising, it was never consistent in where it was heading, much like the story overall (more on that in a bit). Samira, on the other hand, is constantly in her own head, either indoctrinated to the max to serve her queen no matter what, or wondering when and how she will ultimately die, and fearing that time. And while I get where she's coming from, the repetitiveness of these thoughts so frequently started to irk me after a while.
Then we get to the story itself. Again, based on the cover, and based on the marketing, I expected far more clear Egyptian and Norse influence on page... but it felt like it was just a whisper, a nod at each culture while going off and doing its own thing, which was disappointing. I really wish there had been a more noticeable appearance of both cultures and how they tie into this story.
And the plot? I have no idea what happened there. The pacing overall felt slow, and by the time we got halfway in was when I realized this was likely book one in a series. But even then, we only JUST cover everything that is noted in the summary, literally down to the last page to do so. Some of the plot points that did occur felt a little underwhelming at times, and the ending was incredibly unsatisfying as a cliffhanger, leaving way too much open ended, and not enough to make me want to come back for the next book. One of my early notes while reading says "curious story so far, though I have no idea where this is going", and honestly, I feel like I still don't.
Then we get to the romance, which was overall a VERY slow burn for Samira and Keir. And had I know that this book was basically going to be a shifter romance, I would never have picked it up, as that is very much not up my alley, and so I did not enjoy reading the romance that is on page for these two. And I struggled to grasp at the chemistry between them most of the time.
Overall, this book was giving similar vibes as Alexandra Kennington's Blood Beneath the Snow and LJ Andrews' Broken Souls and Bones, both of which I also struggled with. But if you enjoyed those books, then you might really enjoy this one.
For me, with all the issues I had with this story, it struggled to hold my attention and I too easily kept putting it down. And while I did ultimately finish it, I don't think I'm interested enough to pick up the next book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.5/5
This was a book I was not expecting and knew nothing about, but I am so glad I received it. This was a fantastic read! While there are areas for improvement, the writing overall was good and I was engaged and desperate for more at the end with so many questions. There are Gods, humans, and different types of magic wielders.
The story is a dual POV with Samira, a slave, and Amunet, the princess/queen that Samira is the handmaid to. Samira is tasked with taking Amunet’s place when enemies invade. Samira’s story is pretending to be Amunet and help the people that took her while Amunet’s story is about getting her God’s promised powers and back to her kingdom. I will admit, I enjoyed following Samira’s storyline much more.
Amunet is a difficult character to like for me, but I believe that is intentional. She is vain, self-centered, and really does not care for others. I’m curious to see which way Amunet develops. I feel her story ending with two paths – she could grow into a better person, but she could also delve deeper and turn into an antagonist to Samira. Personally, I think I would prefer that route. I did like the storyline between Amunet and Jasim, her love interest.
Samira is kind and considerate. As the story progresses, it implies that she is being greedy in continuing her rouse of being Amunet, but I think it is a bit simplistic to say that. Readers have insight that she as a character does not. I can see some readers being frustrated with her decisions, but I think it is realistic to her situation. She is a slave that has known no kindness or love since she was taken. While things could change, I do believe the story has set the love interest. They will fit in with a lot of romantasy readers expectations- implied some sort of mate bond with a darker, brooding personality. Personally, I would prefer the other potential interest. I think he is a better match and better character. Still early in the love plot to say for certain where things will go, but Samira repeatedly calls the one character a friend and when they kiss thinks little of it while her time with the likely love interest she is very into. I kind of wish if the intention is not for the story to have a true love triangle, the author would not have even sort-of implied one. But we will see.
The mix of Egyptian and Nordic vibes was fun and interesting. There will be some readers that will probably guess some of the twists, but it in no way makes the story less enjoyable. As mentioned in the beginning, there is some room for improvement. Sometimes, it felt the writing was too simplistic and needed more depth. There are things that Samira is able to know or do that I don’t think someone in her position would. It would have helped if there was some reference to slaves being taught to this or that to make it more believable. Also, while not overly used, there is enough modern language/slang that was a little off putting in some situations given the world we were presented with.
I highly recommend reading this when it comes out in June. Thank you Netgalley and Ashley Tropea for an ARC. I thoroughly enjoyed this book!
I received an e-ARC from Netgalley for an honest review.
This was a book I was not expecting and knew nothing about, but I am so glad I received it. This was a fantastic read! While there are areas for improvement, the writing overall was good and I was engaged and desperate for more at the end with so many questions. There are Gods, humans, and different types of magic wielders.
The story is a dual POV with Samira, a slave, and Amunet, the princess/queen that Samira is the handmaid to. Samira is tasked with taking Amunet’s place when enemies invade. Samira’s story is pretending to be Amunet and help the people that took her while Amunet’s story is about getting her God’s promised powers and back to her kingdom. I will admit, I enjoyed following Samira’s storyline much more.
Amunet is a difficult character to like for me, but I believe that is intentional. She is vain, self-centered, and really does not care for others. I’m curious to see which way Amunet develops. I feel her story ending with two paths – she could grow into a better person, but she could also delve deeper and turn into an antagonist to Samira. Personally, I think I would prefer that route. I did like the storyline between Amunet and Jasim, her love interest.
Samira is kind and considerate. As the story progresses, it implies that she is being greedy in continuing her rouse of being Amunet, but I think it is a bit simplistic to say that. Readers have insight that she as a character does not. I can see some readers being frustrated with her decisions, but I think it is realistic to her situation. She is a slave that has known no kindness or love since she was taken. While things could change, I do believe the story has set the love interest. They will fit in with a lot of romantasy readers expectations- implied some sort of mate bond with a darker, brooding personality. Personally, I would prefer the other potential interest. I think he is a better match and better character. Still early in the love plot to say for certain where things will go, but Samira repeatedly calls the one character a friend and when they kiss thinks little of it while her time with the likely love interest she is very into. I kind of wish if the intention is not for the story to have a true love triangle, the author would not have even sort-of implied one. But we will see.
The mix of Egyptian and Nordic vibes was fun and interesting. There will be some readers that will probably guess some of the twists, but it in no way makes the story less enjoyable. As mentioned in the beginning, there is some room for improvement. Sometimes, it felt the writing was too simplistic and needed more depth. There are things that Samira is able to know or do that I don’t think someone in her position would. It would have helped if there was some reference to slaves being taught to this or that to make it more believable. Also, while not overly used, there is enough modern language/slang that was a little off putting in some situations given the world we were presented with.
I highly recommend reading this when it comes out in June. Thank you Netgalley and Ashley Tropea for an ARC. I thoroughly enjoyed this book!
I received an e-ARC from Netgalley for an honest review.
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 🤞🏽
Did Not Finish
May 2, 2026Soft DNF at 22% (Read Through Chapter 12)
There were many parts of this book that I enjoyed, and I was so excited about the story being based off Egyptian mythology.
However, I found that the world building was lacking, as it was hard for me to visualize much of anything. Additionally, most of the characters fell flat in my opinion, especially the side characters.
I preferred Samira’s POV over Amunet’s POV to a significant agree; in fact, it was hard for me to root for Amunet at all, as her behavior was very inconsistent, hot and cold. I’m sure Samira will find her inner strength by the end of the book, but I just don’t have the patience to read on and see.
Also, while I liked the writing overall, some of the word choices (swearing included) felt a bit too modern for this fantasy world.
Having said all of that, there are elements of the story that could potentially make me pick up this book again in the future. But for right now, I’m not really feeling it, so it’s best I set it aside.
NOTES I TOOK WHILE READING:
There were many parts of this book that I enjoyed, and I was so excited about the story being based off Egyptian mythology.
However, I found that the world building was lacking, as it was hard for me to visualize much of anything. Additionally, most of the characters fell flat in my opinion, especially the side characters.
I preferred Samira’s POV over Amunet’s POV to a significant agree; in fact, it was hard for me to root for Amunet at all, as her behavior was very inconsistent, hot and cold. I’m sure Samira will find her inner strength by the end of the book, but I just don’t have the patience to read on and see.
Also, while I liked the writing overall, some of the word choices (swearing included) felt a bit too modern for this fantasy world.
Having said all of that, there are elements of the story that could potentially make me pick up this book again in the future. But for right now, I’m not really feeling it, so it’s best I set it aside.
NOTES I TOOK WHILE READING:
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