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Monster, Monarch, Maiden
Not yet published
Expected 25 Aug 26A sweeping stand-alone fantasy from award-winning and bestselling master of the genre, Rae Carson. After she loses everything, Bria will do whatever it takes to survive—even pledge herself to a secretive young man on a perilous quest. Breathtaking adventure and swoon-worthy romance for fans of Sarah J. Maas, Ava Reid, and Rebecca Ross.
Bria Angarsold isn’t supposed to be a hero. She’s just a mountain girl. A mountain girl with a near useless Gift, living an idyllic life with her sister and her parents, running the family’s thriving inn. But then the raiders come, and Bria’s family is destroyed.
One of the last survivors of the raid, Bria isn’t sure she’ll live to see where the captors are taking her. Until the caravan crosses paths with a mysterious traveler and Bria’s luck changes again.
With no family or home to return to, Bria swears her life to this moody, secretive young man. Titus has been chosen to complete a perilous quest—one that will make Bria question everything she’s ever believed, from the magic that weaves through their world to the very gods themselves. As the journey unfolds, Bria realizes she has something—someone—new to believe in. She’d follow Titus to the Edge of the World, sworn oath or not, even if neither of them stands a chance at returning from it.
But Bria Angarsold is a survivor. She isn’t useless, and neither is her Gift. And this is her story.
Shadow and Bone meets Divine Rivals for an exhilarating journey and a slow-burn romance from the author of the acclaimed The Girl of Fire and Thorns.
Bria Angarsold isn’t supposed to be a hero. She’s just a mountain girl. A mountain girl with a near useless Gift, living an idyllic life with her sister and her parents, running the family’s thriving inn. But then the raiders come, and Bria’s family is destroyed.
One of the last survivors of the raid, Bria isn’t sure she’ll live to see where the captors are taking her. Until the caravan crosses paths with a mysterious traveler and Bria’s luck changes again.
With no family or home to return to, Bria swears her life to this moody, secretive young man. Titus has been chosen to complete a perilous quest—one that will make Bria question everything she’s ever believed, from the magic that weaves through their world to the very gods themselves. As the journey unfolds, Bria realizes she has something—someone—new to believe in. She’d follow Titus to the Edge of the World, sworn oath or not, even if neither of them stands a chance at returning from it.
But Bria Angarsold is a survivor. She isn’t useless, and neither is her Gift. And this is her story.
Shadow and Bone meets Divine Rivals for an exhilarating journey and a slow-burn romance from the author of the acclaimed The Girl of Fire and Thorns.
480 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication August 25, 2026
About the author
Rae Carson
34 books5,908 followersRae Carson was born in 1973 in California and now lives in Arizona. She developed an enthusiasm for storytelling in her earliest childhood. She studied social sciences and worked in various industries after graduating from university before she realized her dream and became a writer. The Girl of Fire and Thorns was her debut novel.
In her own words, she "write[s] books about teens who must do brave things. [Her] books tend to contain lots of adventure, a little magic and romance, and smart girls who make (mostly) smart choices. [She] especially love[s] to write about questions [she doesn't] know the answers to."
Has also published as Rae Carson Finlay.
In her own words, she "write[s] books about teens who must do brave things. [Her] books tend to contain lots of adventure, a little magic and romance, and smart girls who make (mostly) smart choices. [She] especially love[s] to write about questions [she doesn't] know the answers to."
Has also published as Rae Carson Finlay.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I went into this story extremely biased. I read Carson's Fire and Thorns series in middle school, and it really fostered my love of reading, so I had high expectations for this story. Needless to say, it was amazing.
The book starts off a bit rough, with our FMC Bria, as well as her sister and others who had been captured, being carted away by slavers. People have already died or been killed, so everything appears to be bleak and hopeless, until Titus comes along. He's meant to be mysterious, but I think it's pretty easy to pick up on his true identity. Bria knows there's something off about him, but her observational skills are pretty on point, and she makes it a habit to talk to Titus as much as she can. It was just a matter of time for her to piece everything together, and it didn't take long at all. There were just so many hints (if you could call them that) just screaming right at you. So, despite his attempts at being secretive, he absolutely failed.
One of the main aspects of this story is that people have been given Gifts by the gods. It's a conversation that generally doesn’t take place and isn’t openly discussed, and if you ask, you're met with shock because it's meant to be private. I really enjoyed this because, as the book progressed, you learn more about Gifts and how many there are, to the point that it's hard to keep track. Titus has very rare, unique Gifts (obviously), and Bria has one that I wouldn’t have imagined for her, and yet it works to her advantage. The magic and monsters were extremely interesting, and I was thankful when Bria and Titus would talk about them more in depth, because depending on the monster, they only reveal themselves in specific conditions.
I genuinely think if you like unique magic, monarch political intrigue, quests, and a budding romance, then you should definitely give this book a try!
The book starts off a bit rough, with our FMC Bria, as well as her sister and others who had been captured, being carted away by slavers. People have already died or been killed, so everything appears to be bleak and hopeless, until Titus comes along. He's meant to be mysterious, but I think it's pretty easy to pick up on his true identity. Bria knows there's something off about him, but her observational skills are pretty on point, and she makes it a habit to talk to Titus as much as she can. It was just a matter of time for her to piece everything together, and it didn't take long at all. There were just so many hints (if you could call them that) just screaming right at you. So, despite his attempts at being secretive, he absolutely failed.
One of the main aspects of this story is that people have been given Gifts by the gods. It's a conversation that generally doesn’t take place and isn’t openly discussed, and if you ask, you're met with shock because it's meant to be private. I really enjoyed this because, as the book progressed, you learn more about Gifts and how many there are, to the point that it's hard to keep track. Titus has very rare, unique Gifts (obviously), and Bria has one that I wouldn’t have imagined for her, and yet it works to her advantage. The magic and monsters were extremely interesting, and I was thankful when Bria and Titus would talk about them more in depth, because depending on the monster, they only reveal themselves in specific conditions.
I genuinely think if you like unique magic, monarch political intrigue, quests, and a budding romance, then you should definitely give this book a try!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I love these type of books, where the main characters set out on a quest together and end up falling in love. I liked discovering the different types of magic that people had, and I loved that Bria was so clever and thought quickly on her feet. I think she and Titus complemented each other nicely and made a good pair.
I thought the pacing was good, up until the end where it felt rushed and somewhat abrupt to me. This was a clean read, but there were a few gory parts.
I think I was expecting this to go in a different direction than it did, and I felt a little sad that we were excluded from Titus’s adventure with the gods. I think this could easily be book one in a series, and if it were, I would look forward to reading more!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for letting me read this ARC in exchange for my honest review!
I thought the pacing was good, up until the end where it felt rushed and somewhat abrupt to me. This was a clean read, but there were a few gory parts.
I think I was expecting this to go in a different direction than it did, and I felt a little sad that we were excluded from Titus’s adventure with the gods. I think this could easily be book one in a series, and if it were, I would look forward to reading more!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for letting me read this ARC in exchange for my honest review!
April 7, 2026
Loved. Seems to be a standalone, great world (although somewhat reminiscent of Graceling, because the Gifts are a similar concept, but honestly SO much better executed here), unexpected story. I love that this is Bria’s story because there are (avoiding spoilers) several candidates for main character in terms of the expected narrative conventions and Bria isn’t an obvious candidate (kind of one of the points), she’s just a girl who ends up in a big story. And she’s great. We should all grow up to be this kind of heroic, the kind that just… gets shit done.
While this seems to clearly close out the narrative for these characters I would be happy to see more set in this complicated and interesting world.
While this seems to clearly close out the narrative for these characters I would be happy to see more set in this complicated and interesting world.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Monster, Monarch, Maiden is a sweet fantasy romance about a boy, Titus, with an epic, secret task to accomplish and a girl, Bria, who joins him; at first because he rescued her, but at last because she rescues him. Told in completely from Bria's point of view, the tale takes the duo all across the continent upon which they live. They have to fight assassins, monsters and other humans as they race to get Titus to the Edge of the World by the appointed time. Along the way, they collect friends who round out the story with their personal histories. While there is a lot of angst, the book ends happily. The book is squeaky clean, kisses only with no strong language. It is appropriate for advanced middle grades on up.
I received a free advance reader copy All opinions are my own.
I received a free advance reader copy All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Something I can't stand about YA fantasy novels is when the FMC is described to be strong and intelligent but you don't actually see any evidence of it. This book does not do that thankfully. Bria is exactly as smart and resourceful and empathetic as described. Absolutely loved that she did not have to be rescued constantly and could hold her own and was actually a main character in her own story.
I got a bit concerned with the slow burn as I didn't see it developing quickly enough, but in the end, it was a very sweet and natural friends to lovers path which I loved.
I will say the authors other series (girl of fire and thorns) is still my favorite, but this was a lovely little standalone.
Thank you to NetGalley for the eARC as always!
I got a bit concerned with the slow burn as I didn't see it developing quickly enough, but in the end, it was a very sweet and natural friends to lovers path which I loved.
I will say the authors other series (girl of fire and thorns) is still my favorite, but this was a lovely little standalone.
Thank you to NetGalley for the eARC as always!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thanks to NetGalley for the e-ARC!
It breaks my heart a little bit to see this book being advertised 'for fans of Sarah J Maas', because Rae Carson started and finished an entire incredible trilogy before Throne of Glass was any sort of popular - but I digress. Rae Carson has a talent for writing solid YA books; they're well-paced, have interesting worldbuilding, and the characters are easy to root for. Monster, Monarch, Maiden is no exception. It isn't groundbreaking, but it is good, and the kind of book that would have easily become a comfort read for me if I had read it as a teenager. I do think that both of Carson's previous series are better than this one, but I am excited that she's writing again and hope to see more from her!
It breaks my heart a little bit to see this book being advertised 'for fans of Sarah J Maas', because Rae Carson started and finished an entire incredible trilogy before Throne of Glass was any sort of popular - but I digress. Rae Carson has a talent for writing solid YA books; they're well-paced, have interesting worldbuilding, and the characters are easy to root for. Monster, Monarch, Maiden is no exception. It isn't groundbreaking, but it is good, and the kind of book that would have easily become a comfort read for me if I had read it as a teenager. I do think that both of Carson's previous series are better than this one, but I am excited that she's writing again and hope to see more from her!
May 11, 2026
Thank you to Rae Carson, publishers and Edelweiss for an advance copy of this book.
Rae Carson is one of my favorite YA authors and this is a continuation of this streak. If someone is looking for a YA book with a capable and interesting main character, Carson is my go to recommendation.
This is a standalone YA fantasy novel with a romance plot that is important, but I would not call this a Romantasy so please set your expectations accordingly.
Monster, Monarch, Maiden is an epic adventure story following the quest of two characters that are endearing and competent in a harsh world.
I will say that this was a mature book in terms of violence and overall themes, but it felt YA in pacing and appropriateness for the romance.
I will submit my usual complaint here for standalone novels: I would have read a thousand more pages of this world in a slowed down series version of this plot. This was a fun read that I didn't want to put down but at times the pacing did feel rushed. That is coming from my fantasy soaked brain that wants every book to be as long as possible so I have more time to enjoy it. When I read this I was in the mood for a one off and it hit the mark perfectly.
Light spoilers for animal lovers who want to know what to expect:
Rae Carson is one of my favorite YA authors and this is a continuation of this streak. If someone is looking for a YA book with a capable and interesting main character, Carson is my go to recommendation.
This is a standalone YA fantasy novel with a romance plot that is important, but I would not call this a Romantasy so please set your expectations accordingly.
Monster, Monarch, Maiden is an epic adventure story following the quest of two characters that are endearing and competent in a harsh world.
I will say that this was a mature book in terms of violence and overall themes, but it felt YA in pacing and appropriateness for the romance.
I will submit my usual complaint here for standalone novels: I would have read a thousand more pages of this world in a slowed down series version of this plot. This was a fun read that I didn't want to put down but at times the pacing did feel rushed. That is coming from my fantasy soaked brain that wants every book to be as long as possible so I have more time to enjoy it. When I read this I was in the mood for a one off and it hit the mark perfectly.
Light spoilers for animal lovers who want to know what to expect:
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Great book, especially for the teens or preteens. The book strats fast and the plot keeops going. Bria ia a fierce FMC who does not let things get in her way as she fights her way through and discovers more about her powers and world. Titus, is a sweet and young MMC who is determined to do the right thing and for the world. Together they can do more and grow as people, solve their problems, and fall in love. The story focus on Bria and Ttitus journey and we learn some about his world, I would love to now more details about the mythology, however this did work for the audience and it was a great stand alone romance for young adult readers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
So, it's been a few years since I've read a book by Rae Carson. Which was obviously long enough to forget how good they are!
I've been in such a slump lately, that only the truly exceptional books are holding my attention. I read this book so quickly, and the only thing that slowed me down was having to go to work.
I loved the characters, the setting, the magic, the horses, just everything.
And the cover art is glorious. I'm going to need a special edition from somewhere.
Highly recommended.
I've been in such a slump lately, that only the truly exceptional books are holding my attention. I read this book so quickly, and the only thing that slowed me down was having to go to work.
I loved the characters, the setting, the magic, the horses, just everything.
And the cover art is glorious. I'm going to need a special edition from somewhere.
Highly recommended.
Review of advance copy
In a world where gods grant magical gifts to humans, Bria Angarsold's magical gift feels pretty useless: she can make things cold. But after Bria loses everything but her life when her village is raided, she pledges herself to a mysterious man who helps her come into her own power while uncovering a political conspiracy that threatens their lives.
Exquisite world-building and lyrical writing balanced with pops of wry humor make fast work of this 480-page tome.
Exquisite world-building and lyrical writing balanced with pops of wry humor make fast work of this 480-page tome.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
In general I'm not a fantasy fan, but I make an exception for Rae Carson and I'm always glad I did. Another excellent first (I hope?) in a series. If not, it was a non-stop adventure with a satisfying ending.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Action-packed adventure!
April 13, 2026
Monster, Monarch, Maiden is a great fantasy that will take readers all around this magical world. Bria, a girl who has what she thinks is an insignificant power, is rescued from slavers by Titus, who is on a quest of his own. Unable to make it home due to her condition, Bria convinces Titus to let her accompany him to the Edge of the World to complete his quest. Along the way they battle monsters, make new friends, and try to survive the journey.
The plot is fast moving and holds the readers interest. The chemistry between Bria and Titus is great. The book is clean with only kisses between romantic interests and no language. A great read for any upper middle schooler and higher.
The plot is fast moving and holds the readers interest. The chemistry between Bria and Titus is great. The book is clean with only kisses between romantic interests and no language. A great read for any upper middle schooler and higher.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews