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Upon a Broken Throne #1
King of Ravens
He’ll do anything to keep her. She’d do anything to escape.
Rhiannon is dying—of what, she doesn’t know. Kept protected by her family in their remote seaside cottage, she spends her days searching for a cure. Her world is torn apart, however, when a fae King of the Dead invades her home.
Cold and cruel, Drystan offers her a choice: descend to the underworld as his bride or watch her family die. Trapped in a twisted bargain, Rhiannon is thrust into a world of withered gods, scheming courtiers, and ancient magic, but she refuses to be a pawn in a game she never agreed to play. She attempts over and over to run away, until Drystan offers her a new bargain: escape his deadly labyrinth, and he will set her free. Fail, and become his bride.
But in a court where every promise has teeth, Annon must make an impossible choice: return to the home she's always loved or claim her place in a world where she might finally belong.
Rhiannon is dying—of what, she doesn’t know. Kept protected by her family in their remote seaside cottage, she spends her days searching for a cure. Her world is torn apart, however, when a fae King of the Dead invades her home.
Cold and cruel, Drystan offers her a choice: descend to the underworld as his bride or watch her family die. Trapped in a twisted bargain, Rhiannon is thrust into a world of withered gods, scheming courtiers, and ancient magic, but she refuses to be a pawn in a game she never agreed to play. She attempts over and over to run away, until Drystan offers her a new bargain: escape his deadly labyrinth, and he will set her free. Fail, and become his bride.
But in a court where every promise has teeth, Annon must make an impossible choice: return to the home she's always loved or claim her place in a world where she might finally belong.
480 pages, Paperback
First published January 27, 2026
455 people are currently reading
15219 people want to read
About the author
Clare Sager
22 books1,856 followersClare Sager writes darkly addictive romantasy full of slow-burn steam, gut-wrenching conflict, and morally grey *everybody*. Dubbed the Queen of Edging by readers, she takes no responsibility for lost sleep or therapy bills.
When she’s not breaking hearts with her Shadows of the Tenebris Court series, Clare can usually be found drinking coffee, lifting weights, or impulse-buying stationery.
She lives in Nottingham, Robin Hood country, so it’s no surprise she writes about characters who don’t always play by the rules.
When she’s not breaking hearts with her Shadows of the Tenebris Court series, Clare can usually be found drinking coffee, lifting weights, or impulse-buying stationery.
She lives in Nottingham, Robin Hood country, so it’s no surprise she writes about characters who don’t always play by the rules.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 588 reviews
January 23, 2026
firstly, thank you to the publisher for an arc!
UPDATE 1/23/26: my fairyloot edition arrived and WHEWWW!! it is stunning omg, literally the fanart is gorgeous and a lil spicy... literally might bump up my rating to 3.5 just because of how beautiful my edition is haha.
i’m torn on whether i really liked this or not — while i tore through the pages, there were many things that stood out to me.
after reading so many romances with young fmcs, i do really appreciate that rhiannon was 33 — it’s exhausting and concerning reading women just out of girlhood be approached by much older men, so it was extremely refreshing to have a truly adult fmc in this romance.
mostly, i felt as if the plot dragged and things could have been resolved much faster, in which the way the book ended could have occurred much sooner, and we got more time with the supposed consequences. a lot of what occurred throughout the book felt like fluff, which was frustrating because i was initially interested in the world-building exhibited.
i definitely will pick up book two because of the conflicting emotions i had regarding the behavior of our mmc, but i hope the next book’s plot is more fully developed.
i'm very excited to see my fairyloot edition🤭
UPDATE 1/23/26: my fairyloot edition arrived and WHEWWW!! it is stunning omg, literally the fanart is gorgeous and a lil spicy... literally might bump up my rating to 3.5 just because of how beautiful my edition is haha.
i’m torn on whether i really liked this or not — while i tore through the pages, there were many things that stood out to me.
after reading so many romances with young fmcs, i do really appreciate that rhiannon was 33 — it’s exhausting and concerning reading women just out of girlhood be approached by much older men, so it was extremely refreshing to have a truly adult fmc in this romance.
mostly, i felt as if the plot dragged and things could have been resolved much faster, in which the way the book ended could have occurred much sooner, and we got more time with the supposed consequences. a lot of what occurred throughout the book felt like fluff, which was frustrating because i was initially interested in the world-building exhibited.
i definitely will pick up book two because of the conflicting emotions i had regarding the behavior of our mmc, but i hope the next book’s plot is more fully developed.
i'm very excited to see my fairyloot edition🤭
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.5 / 5 Stars
On a fun scale, this ranked pretty high! But it did leave me wanting more at times. A quick layperson synopsis: Rhiannon has been sick for more of her life than not. When the fae King of the Dead shows up at her door, she must either marry him or watch her family die. Rhiannon chooses the former and down to the underworld they go. Rhiannon attempts to escape and the King strikes up another deal with her – if she can escape his labyrinth over the course of two weeks, she is free to go. Otherwise, they’re getting married, baby! But Rhiannon makes some friends, and she is feeling better and the King is hot! Will she continue to fight to leave or figure out how to make it work in the Underworld.
You will probably like this book if you like:
☠️ Romantic fantasy with fae set in the Underworld
🖤 First book in a duology
☠️ Grumpy x Sunshine
🖤 Morally gray MMC
☠️ Loathe to love
🖤 Chronic illness rep
☠️ Hurt / comfort
🖤 A marriage bargain but she wants out
☠️ A labyrinth style deadly trial to escape
This hits so many fun tropes and had some really fun moments. You know your girl loves a deadly trial so Rhiannon’s journey through the labyrinth was extra fun for me. Her friendship with The Collector, Min, and Asti were really heartwarming. And I love a morally gray man who is only soft for one person. I eat that UPPPP.
But the connective tissue in between the fun moments was a little lacking at times. It all felt like a standard romantasy with an FMC who doesn’t put up with shit and a morally gray MMC who “told her he was bad and not to fall for him” but it is just set in the Underworld. Also, I am not a fan of high fantasy where there are so many details that you have to keep a glossary, but I felt like the world could have been a little more developed. And maybe because there were so many tropes that were included, it felt a little long at times.
The twists at the end were interesting and the set up for the next book was great (though perhaps I feel like I know what is coming, but I also may be wrong). If you like any of the tropes above and want a fantasy romance that doesn’t feel too hard to access, then you may like this book.
Thank you Forever (Grand Central Publishing) and NetGalley for providing this eARC! All opinions are my own.
Publication Date: January 27, 2026
______________________
Pre-Read Thoughts: The author described the MMC as a "demigod death daddy" and I am intrigued if I don't say so myself. 😂
On a fun scale, this ranked pretty high! But it did leave me wanting more at times. A quick layperson synopsis: Rhiannon has been sick for more of her life than not. When the fae King of the Dead shows up at her door, she must either marry him or watch her family die. Rhiannon chooses the former and down to the underworld they go. Rhiannon attempts to escape and the King strikes up another deal with her – if she can escape his labyrinth over the course of two weeks, she is free to go. Otherwise, they’re getting married, baby! But Rhiannon makes some friends, and she is feeling better and the King is hot! Will she continue to fight to leave or figure out how to make it work in the Underworld.
You will probably like this book if you like:
☠️ Romantic fantasy with fae set in the Underworld
🖤 First book in a duology
☠️ Grumpy x Sunshine
🖤 Morally gray MMC
☠️ Loathe to love
🖤 Chronic illness rep
☠️ Hurt / comfort
🖤 A marriage bargain but she wants out
☠️ A labyrinth style deadly trial to escape
This hits so many fun tropes and had some really fun moments. You know your girl loves a deadly trial so Rhiannon’s journey through the labyrinth was extra fun for me. Her friendship with The Collector, Min, and Asti were really heartwarming. And I love a morally gray man who is only soft for one person. I eat that UPPPP.
But the connective tissue in between the fun moments was a little lacking at times. It all felt like a standard romantasy with an FMC who doesn’t put up with shit and a morally gray MMC who “told her he was bad and not to fall for him” but it is just set in the Underworld. Also, I am not a fan of high fantasy where there are so many details that you have to keep a glossary, but I felt like the world could have been a little more developed. And maybe because there were so many tropes that were included, it felt a little long at times.
The twists at the end were interesting and the set up for the next book was great (though perhaps I feel like I know what is coming, but I also may be wrong). If you like any of the tropes above and want a fantasy romance that doesn’t feel too hard to access, then you may like this book.
Thank you Forever (Grand Central Publishing) and NetGalley for providing this eARC! All opinions are my own.
Publication Date: January 27, 2026
______________________
Pre-Read Thoughts: The author described the MMC as a "demigod death daddy" and I am intrigued if I don't say so myself. 😂
Currently reading
February 4, 2026A forced marriage to the unseelie fae king of the dead who can transform into a flock of ravens.
Romance readers: Aww. 🥰
Romance readers: Aww. 🥰
Read
January 31, 2026Apperantly there is an issue with the audio where the last part of the book is missing, so I don't know what the ending is.
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I'm sad this was not what I hoped it would be.
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WHO DO I NEED TO BRIBE FOR AN ARC?!?
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I'm sad this was not what I hoped it would be.
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WHO DO I NEED TO BRIBE FOR AN ARC?!?
November 18, 2025
Huge thanks to NetGalley & the publishers for a chance to review this arc!!
This was such a delightful read. I don’t normally read those kinds of Romantasy but this one was good. It had elements that weren’t new to the genre but I was won over by the King of Death.
I haven’t read any of the author’s previous work and I really enjoyed this one. The fact that I hadn’t read anything else from this world didn’t hinder my enjoyment or understanding.
Rhiannon has been sick most of her life and when she’s 33, the King of Death makes an appearance to take her father up on his bargain made before she was born (that their firstborn daughter would be his bride). Now, I wish we learnt more about his mother & the deal she struck with her father but sadly, this wasn’t discussed. I’m thinking that it’ll be in the next book.
All the parts about the poisons and herbalism were so interesting to me! I loved reading about this. The characters were well done and I loved reading about them. I especially loved Rhiannon. I will admit I wasn’t impressed by the nicknames (ahnon, asti, etc.) - they were a bit juvenile for me and I didn’t understand the appeal. But it wasn’t something that hindered my reading experience. The pacing and writing were addicting and easy to read.
The romance was a slow burn and the tension was a delight to read. There’s found family, good women friendships, tension & slow burn, a cat, a labyrinth with interesting challenges and ravens.
If you go into this thinking it’ll be a fun time, you’ll definitely enjoy it.
This was such a delightful read. I don’t normally read those kinds of Romantasy but this one was good. It had elements that weren’t new to the genre but I was won over by the King of Death.
I haven’t read any of the author’s previous work and I really enjoyed this one. The fact that I hadn’t read anything else from this world didn’t hinder my enjoyment or understanding.
Rhiannon has been sick most of her life and when she’s 33, the King of Death makes an appearance to take her father up on his bargain made before she was born (that their firstborn daughter would be his bride). Now, I wish we learnt more about his mother & the deal she struck with her father but sadly, this wasn’t discussed. I’m thinking that it’ll be in the next book.
All the parts about the poisons and herbalism were so interesting to me! I loved reading about this. The characters were well done and I loved reading about them. I especially loved Rhiannon. I will admit I wasn’t impressed by the nicknames (ahnon, asti, etc.) - they were a bit juvenile for me and I didn’t understand the appeal. But it wasn’t something that hindered my reading experience. The pacing and writing were addicting and easy to read.
The romance was a slow burn and the tension was a delight to read. There’s found family, good women friendships, tension & slow burn, a cat, a labyrinth with interesting challenges and ravens.
If you go into this thinking it’ll be a fun time, you’ll definitely enjoy it.
Currently reading
February 3, 2026Currently reading ༄˖°.☕️.ೃ࿔📚*:･
I tried starting When The Moon Hatched, but I couldn't get into it. Now this though. A Hades and Persephone retelling and an arranged/forced marriage — am I interested?
I tried starting When The Moon Hatched, but I couldn't get into it. Now this though. A Hades and Persephone retelling and an arranged/forced marriage — am I interested?
November 22, 2025
I will start from the bottom line: I loved the book very much! This was among the best fantasy books I've read in recent times, and I’ve read quite a few lately. "King of Ravens" by Clare Sager is the first book in a romantasy duology and a loose retelling of Hades and Persephone, inspired by Welsh mythology. I haven’t read any of the author’s previous books—a thing I now have to remedy. I fell in love with the writing as well as the weaving of the intricate plot.
Told in the first-person POV, the book follows Rhiannon, a 33-year-old heroine suffering from an incurable and unknown chronic illness. She is isolated in her family’s remote seaside cottage due to her condition, trying to find a cure without any luck. When Drystan, the Fae King of the Dead, appears one day in their home, demanding her parents honor the bargain they made with his mother Morrigan, the Goddess of War, Fate, and Death—her father’s life in return for their firstborn daughter—Rhiannon is left with no choice but to go with him to the underworld and become his bride.
Rhiannon finds herself locked in the strange world of the Fae with its unfamiliar rules, dangerous environment, and political intrigue. After her attempts to return home fail, Drystan offers her a bargain: escape his deadly labyrinth, and she can go home; fail, and she becomes his bride. Rhiannon agrees and must choose between returning to her family or staying in a world where she’s made new friends, might finally belong, and may even find love to boot.
What follows is an exciting tale of spicy enemies-to-lovers, slow-burn romance, royal court intrigue, dangerous trials, and ancient magic. I loved the book and flew through its pages. The story is driven by both the poetic language and the action-based conflict, but it works so well because of the characters (they are all so exquisitely crafted) and the very tight plot.
I thought the descriptions of chronic illness were accurately done. Rhiannon is a heroine one can’t help but root for. I admired her inner strength, her intelligence and determination, her kindness, her selfishness, her coping with pain, and her optimism—keeping a smile despite everything. I loved that she didn’t give up, whether in trying to find a cure for her illness or escaping Mordren (the underworld).
Drystan is full of contrasts. He is what you’d call a morally gray character—cruel on one hand, kind on the other, and constantly sending mixed signals. The coming marriage was enforced on both of them, so they only had the hand they were given to play. I have to say that I wasn’t too fond of Rhiannon’s parents. They took care of her, but they were overprotective and acted from their own selfish motives.
The book explores themes of chronic illness, valor, courage, friendship, moral dilemmas, loneliness, the need for belonging, found family, gaslighting, and familial abuse. I loved the dynamics between the characters, and the combination of the trials with the everyday life of the royal court, along with the tidbits about the Fae. For instance, they can’t lie and are night creatures. I also loved the author’s version of the Hades and Persephone tale. There are ravens, a ghost cat, new friendships—what’s not to love? The book stands on its own. Even if you aren’t familiar with Fae myths, you won’t have any problems following it.
The book’s strengths lie in its magnificent prose, rich world-building, diverse cast, and convoluted plot. The dark, gritty atmosphere and the surrounding lore were fascinating. The only issue I had was the ending. The book ends in a cliffhanger, and I must have the sequel now! If you are looking for a great fantasy that will have you scrambling for more, this book fits the bill perfectly. The characters are impressive (I loved them), the plot is exciting, and the writing is superb. Full stars from me!
* Thank you NetGalley and (publisher) for the opportunity to read this arc. All opinions are my own.
* Review on my blog: https://galibookish.blogspot.com/2025...
Told in the first-person POV, the book follows Rhiannon, a 33-year-old heroine suffering from an incurable and unknown chronic illness. She is isolated in her family’s remote seaside cottage due to her condition, trying to find a cure without any luck. When Drystan, the Fae King of the Dead, appears one day in their home, demanding her parents honor the bargain they made with his mother Morrigan, the Goddess of War, Fate, and Death—her father’s life in return for their firstborn daughter—Rhiannon is left with no choice but to go with him to the underworld and become his bride.
Rhiannon finds herself locked in the strange world of the Fae with its unfamiliar rules, dangerous environment, and political intrigue. After her attempts to return home fail, Drystan offers her a bargain: escape his deadly labyrinth, and she can go home; fail, and she becomes his bride. Rhiannon agrees and must choose between returning to her family or staying in a world where she’s made new friends, might finally belong, and may even find love to boot.
What follows is an exciting tale of spicy enemies-to-lovers, slow-burn romance, royal court intrigue, dangerous trials, and ancient magic. I loved the book and flew through its pages. The story is driven by both the poetic language and the action-based conflict, but it works so well because of the characters (they are all so exquisitely crafted) and the very tight plot.
I thought the descriptions of chronic illness were accurately done. Rhiannon is a heroine one can’t help but root for. I admired her inner strength, her intelligence and determination, her kindness, her selfishness, her coping with pain, and her optimism—keeping a smile despite everything. I loved that she didn’t give up, whether in trying to find a cure for her illness or escaping Mordren (the underworld).
Drystan is full of contrasts. He is what you’d call a morally gray character—cruel on one hand, kind on the other, and constantly sending mixed signals. The coming marriage was enforced on both of them, so they only had the hand they were given to play. I have to say that I wasn’t too fond of Rhiannon’s parents. They took care of her, but they were overprotective and acted from their own selfish motives.
The book explores themes of chronic illness, valor, courage, friendship, moral dilemmas, loneliness, the need for belonging, found family, gaslighting, and familial abuse. I loved the dynamics between the characters, and the combination of the trials with the everyday life of the royal court, along with the tidbits about the Fae. For instance, they can’t lie and are night creatures. I also loved the author’s version of the Hades and Persephone tale. There are ravens, a ghost cat, new friendships—what’s not to love? The book stands on its own. Even if you aren’t familiar with Fae myths, you won’t have any problems following it.
The book’s strengths lie in its magnificent prose, rich world-building, diverse cast, and convoluted plot. The dark, gritty atmosphere and the surrounding lore were fascinating. The only issue I had was the ending. The book ends in a cliffhanger, and I must have the sequel now! If you are looking for a great fantasy that will have you scrambling for more, this book fits the bill perfectly. The characters are impressive (I loved them), the plot is exciting, and the writing is superb. Full stars from me!
* Thank you NetGalley and (publisher) for the opportunity to read this arc. All opinions are my own.
* Review on my blog: https://galibookish.blogspot.com/2025...
November 25, 2025
.·:*¨ 3.75 𝔰𝔱𝔞𝔯𝔰, 𝔯𝔬𝔲𝔫𝔡𝔢𝔡 𝔲𝔭 ¨*:·.
𝓉𝒽𝒶𝓃𝓀 𝓎𝑜𝓊 𝓉𝑜 𝒩𝑒𝓉𝒢𝒶𝓁𝓁𝑒𝓎 𝒻𝑜𝓇 𝒶𝓃 𝑒𝒜𝑅𝒞 𝒾𝓃 𝑒𝓍𝒸𝒽𝒶𝓃𝑔𝑒 𝒻𝑜𝓇 𝓂𝓎 𝒽𝑜𝓃𝑒𝓈𝓉 𝓇𝑒𝓋𝒾𝑒𝓌
Publication Date: January 27th, 2026
🐦⬛🪦🖤
In King of Ravens, we follow a deathly ill human (Rihannon) who was bargained away by her father to marry “the king of death”. He is dark, ruthless, and everything the name implies.. he is also fae and resides in the underworld where she is taken to become his queen. She will stop at nothing to get back to her family and her brother even if it means playing the games the king of death and his court require of her. What she may not expect is to find friendship, her own strength and even possibly love along the way.
The world building was seamless and effective. I could picture everything that was described and felt like a movie was playing in my mind which is very important for me as a reader! I really enjoyed the writing style as well and found it very easy to follow along and understand.
The characters were what made this book stand out for me. I absolutely love when an author can make side characters special and Clare did just that and more. While I wasn’t the biggest fan of Rhiannon herself (I didn’t dislike her but I just didn’t care for her.. if that makes sense?), I loved all the other characters we meet. The king of death was perfect, Min, Asti, Collector.. I loved them all. I even appreciate when I dislike a character so much when we’re meant to dislike them (Phaedra 😒). She made me feel for the characters and that’s extremely important for me.
The romance wasn’t anything special but it wasn’t bad either. I do love a good slow burn and enemies to lovers romantasy. The snarky banter was my favourite part and made me giggle a few times 🤭
Now for the plot.. I’ll be honest it was a little lacklustre. I kept waiting for something big to happen, or shock me, or interest me and have me turning pages but I never got there. It was just a slow steady pace throughout. The plot twists that were included were nothing that wow-ed me and I found them pretty predictable. I really struggled to get through this book because of it. I don’t even know how to explain it because it’s not like it wasn’t enjoyable.. it just didn’t have a major climax?
Overall I felt like the characters carried this book. While the story was enjoyable it wasn’t anything memorable or exciting for me. It will be one of those books that I’ll forget most of what happened by the end of the week.
I will however remember the characters as I did really love some of them and they will have a place in my heart! I would still recommend this book especially if you are newer to the romantasy genre as I think it’s an easier read/introduction book into the genre.
Yes I will be continuing the series.. the ending!? Have to see what happens now 👀 I think book two might have more action and I’m all for it.
𝓉𝒽𝒶𝓃𝓀 𝓎𝑜𝓊 𝓉𝑜 𝒩𝑒𝓉𝒢𝒶𝓁𝓁𝑒𝓎 𝒻𝑜𝓇 𝒶𝓃 𝑒𝒜𝑅𝒞 𝒾𝓃 𝑒𝓍𝒸𝒽𝒶𝓃𝑔𝑒 𝒻𝑜𝓇 𝓂𝓎 𝒽𝑜𝓃𝑒𝓈𝓉 𝓇𝑒𝓋𝒾𝑒𝓌
Publication Date: January 27th, 2026
🐦⬛🪦🖤
In King of Ravens, we follow a deathly ill human (Rihannon) who was bargained away by her father to marry “the king of death”. He is dark, ruthless, and everything the name implies.. he is also fae and resides in the underworld where she is taken to become his queen. She will stop at nothing to get back to her family and her brother even if it means playing the games the king of death and his court require of her. What she may not expect is to find friendship, her own strength and even possibly love along the way.
The world building was seamless and effective. I could picture everything that was described and felt like a movie was playing in my mind which is very important for me as a reader! I really enjoyed the writing style as well and found it very easy to follow along and understand.
The characters were what made this book stand out for me. I absolutely love when an author can make side characters special and Clare did just that and more. While I wasn’t the biggest fan of Rhiannon herself (I didn’t dislike her but I just didn’t care for her.. if that makes sense?), I loved all the other characters we meet. The king of death was perfect, Min, Asti, Collector.. I loved them all. I even appreciate when I dislike a character so much when we’re meant to dislike them (Phaedra 😒). She made me feel for the characters and that’s extremely important for me.
The romance wasn’t anything special but it wasn’t bad either. I do love a good slow burn and enemies to lovers romantasy. The snarky banter was my favourite part and made me giggle a few times 🤭
Now for the plot.. I’ll be honest it was a little lacklustre. I kept waiting for something big to happen, or shock me, or interest me and have me turning pages but I never got there. It was just a slow steady pace throughout. The plot twists that were included were nothing that wow-ed me and I found them pretty predictable. I really struggled to get through this book because of it. I don’t even know how to explain it because it’s not like it wasn’t enjoyable.. it just didn’t have a major climax?
Overall I felt like the characters carried this book. While the story was enjoyable it wasn’t anything memorable or exciting for me. It will be one of those books that I’ll forget most of what happened by the end of the week.
I will however remember the characters as I did really love some of them and they will have a place in my heart! I would still recommend this book especially if you are newer to the romantasy genre as I think it’s an easier read/introduction book into the genre.
Yes I will be continuing the series.. the ending!? Have to see what happens now 👀 I think book two might have more action and I’m all for it.
January 9, 2026
HELLLLLLLO, THAT ENDING? oh man i have no idea what i’m going to do until book two comes out bc i am TOO many questions and i am very upset about it 😂
i had the best time with this book!!! i grew up obsessed with greek mythology and hades x persephone in particular (like most people) are one of my favorite stories so seeing this retelling i was immediately sold. i really loved the way clare was able to take such a widely known tale and make it her own! the world building, the magic, the trials and the herbology aspects of this book were top tier. everything felt so immersive and well thought out that i truly forgot sometimes that i was reading a story that i have many times.
i am actually obsessed with 99% of the characters we met through out this story, our sassy king of the dead cat daddy drystan was a hoot i was obsessed with him from the moment he first opened his mouth from his sass alone LOL i could not handle it and how much he made me laugh audibly from his dry humor. min is so beloved to me, i would truly kill to get a little novella or something that solely focuses on her as a person and her and asti’s budding relationship. they were such a treat 😩. annon was one hell of an fmc, i absolutely loved how much push back she gave and how even though she wasnt really confident in her decisions sometimes she did everything with the utmost grace and courage!! the collector, you brave sweet soul and friend… 😭
i am truly already foaming at the mouth to do a reread of this book with the audio, i can only imagine how much fun im going to have with all of these characters and this world as they are brought to life by narrators 🤭
i had the best time with this book!!! i grew up obsessed with greek mythology and hades x persephone in particular (like most people) are one of my favorite stories so seeing this retelling i was immediately sold. i really loved the way clare was able to take such a widely known tale and make it her own! the world building, the magic, the trials and the herbology aspects of this book were top tier. everything felt so immersive and well thought out that i truly forgot sometimes that i was reading a story that i have many times.
i am actually obsessed with 99% of the characters we met through out this story, our sassy king of the dead cat daddy drystan was a hoot i was obsessed with him from the moment he first opened his mouth from his sass alone LOL i could not handle it and how much he made me laugh audibly from his dry humor. min is so beloved to me, i would truly kill to get a little novella or something that solely focuses on her as a person and her and asti’s budding relationship. they were such a treat 😩. annon was one hell of an fmc, i absolutely loved how much push back she gave and how even though she wasnt really confident in her decisions sometimes she did everything with the utmost grace and courage!! the collector, you brave sweet soul and friend… 😭
i am truly already foaming at the mouth to do a reread of this book with the audio, i can only imagine how much fun im going to have with all of these characters and this world as they are brought to life by narrators 🤭
January 27, 2026
Admittedly, this one took a little time to hook me, but once it did I couldn’t put it down.
Clare Sager crafts such dynamic fae worlds that feel lush and well-rounded without bogging you down in heavy-handed world building. While aspects of the plot felt a bit predictable, I still thoroughly enjoyed the journey. The labyrinth was an interesting element to the story, but I’d be lying if I said the romance wasn’t the highlight of this book. I absolutely LOVED Annon and Drystan’s relationship. The slow burn, the tension, the tenderness… they make such a great pairing.
That ending though? Diabolical. I would even go as far to say that it was evil. It’s effective though, because I’m now desperate for book two!
Thank you NetGalley and Forever for the e-arc in exchange for my honest review.
Clare Sager crafts such dynamic fae worlds that feel lush and well-rounded without bogging you down in heavy-handed world building. While aspects of the plot felt a bit predictable, I still thoroughly enjoyed the journey. The labyrinth was an interesting element to the story, but I’d be lying if I said the romance wasn’t the highlight of this book. I absolutely LOVED Annon and Drystan’s relationship. The slow burn, the tension, the tenderness… they make such a great pairing.
That ending though? Diabolical. I would even go as far to say that it was evil. It’s effective though, because I’m now desperate for book two!
Thank you NetGalley and Forever for the e-arc in exchange for my honest review.
December 30, 2025
4.5 🌟 Thank you NetGalley and Forever Publishing for the gifted arc!! First off—I was so excited to start this because I loved Clare’s shadows of the tenebris court series. The beginning of this was slow for me and felt very basic romantasy, but by about the 30-40% mark, I was HOOKED—Clare Sager did indeed deliver. I thought I guessed the major plot twist but then another one came out of left field at the end and I’m shook!! I need the next book immediately because my questions need answers!! This book is very much Hades x Persephone coded, which is always one of my favs. The tension between Annon and Drystan was palpable, and there were so many moments that had been giggling and kicking my feet. Also the friendship between Annon/Min/Asti was everything—I just love good female friendships. This was such a great time with a labyrinth, trials, and a hedonistic unseelie court. Now gimme book 2
January 18, 2026
rating: 4.5 ★
annon has been dealing with a incurable, degenerative illness all her life. she had come to accept that she had a limited amount of time left, watching her life continue to become smaller and smaller as each day passed. on a day just like all the others, drystan the king of death showed up on her doorstep with a small army of the dead. coming to claim his debt, he drags annon to the underworld to become his bride. determined to make it back to her home, she finds herself making a deal with drystan that if she is able to complete his labyrinth, she will be able to go home.
i know that a lot of people struggled with the pacing of this book but i just did not have that problem? i was hooked from the start and it always felt like there was something going on. yes, we’re left a little in the dark at the beginning but i took it as we were on the journey with annon in discovering this new world right along side her.
if i could only name one thing i loved about this book it would be the fact that annon was kind of… dumb? she wasn’t shy about the fact that she was uneducated about the underworld and was honest about when she did something that turned out to be incredibly stupid. it was SO refreshing to not have an fmc that was a badass who just has knowledge about everything. she worked through, or attempted to work through all her problems with sheer determination.
annon and drystans relationship was such a good slow burn. despite the fact that i will always think that it is a little weird when a centuries old fae has a relationship with a 30 year old i fear that i too, would not be able to resist a man who gave me a cat so that i wouldn’t be lonely.
AND THAT ENDING?! oh my god i literally audibly gasped because i did not see it coming one bit. i know this book hasn’t even been released yet but god i am already going borderline feral for book two.
𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘭𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘴𝘢𝘨𝘦𝘳, 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘱𝘶𝘣𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘯𝘦𝘵𝘨𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘺 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯 𝘦-𝘢𝘳𝘤 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸. 🤍
annon has been dealing with a incurable, degenerative illness all her life. she had come to accept that she had a limited amount of time left, watching her life continue to become smaller and smaller as each day passed. on a day just like all the others, drystan the king of death showed up on her doorstep with a small army of the dead. coming to claim his debt, he drags annon to the underworld to become his bride. determined to make it back to her home, she finds herself making a deal with drystan that if she is able to complete his labyrinth, she will be able to go home.
i know that a lot of people struggled with the pacing of this book but i just did not have that problem? i was hooked from the start and it always felt like there was something going on. yes, we’re left a little in the dark at the beginning but i took it as we were on the journey with annon in discovering this new world right along side her.
if i could only name one thing i loved about this book it would be the fact that annon was kind of… dumb? she wasn’t shy about the fact that she was uneducated about the underworld and was honest about when she did something that turned out to be incredibly stupid. it was SO refreshing to not have an fmc that was a badass who just has knowledge about everything. she worked through, or attempted to work through all her problems with sheer determination.
annon and drystans relationship was such a good slow burn. despite the fact that i will always think that it is a little weird when a centuries old fae has a relationship with a 30 year old i fear that i too, would not be able to resist a man who gave me a cat so that i wouldn’t be lonely.
AND THAT ENDING?! oh my god i literally audibly gasped because i did not see it coming one bit. i know this book hasn’t even been released yet but god i am already going borderline feral for book two.
𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘭𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘴𝘢𝘨𝘦𝘳, 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘱𝘶𝘣𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘯𝘦𝘵𝘨𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘺 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯 𝘦-𝘢𝘳𝘤 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸. 🤍
December 27, 2025
Aaahhhhh as someone with a chronic illness this made me feel so seen, over extend yourself , pay for it the next day. Chronic illness rep aside the story was phenomenal, the slow burn , betrayal, labyrinth , the romance, the found family feel and of course the cat. I got a silly kick out of the fact she lives in a society where names are super important and goes around the whole book just calling him cat. Lots of twists and of course leaves you on a little cliffhanger that will have you begging for book two. Thanks Netgalley the author and the publisher for this arc.
January 6, 2026
“i can’t pretend to understand. but i know i’d rather cut my own heart out than hurt you. yet it’s too late, isn’t it? i’ve done it.”
—
this was such a fun romantasy!!! i loved how well it balanced politics, trials, & romance. i was absolutely glued to this book that i finished it in 24 hours. he kidnaps her to force her to marry him? that was all i needed to have me SAT.
the fmc being in her 30s was super refreshing. i also loved how her chronic illness was very well written. i felt strongly for rhiannon from the first chapter and i adored seeing her grow into herself throughout the book.
drystan, oh my god this man. i folded the first time he appeared but i swear he just kept getting better. he’s so grumpy and broody but you know underneath he’s a secret softie, take for example said ghost cat he seems to complain about. oh and also his mouth is absolutely insane i had to stare at the wall for a good few minutes.
the found family was such a nice surprise in this. seeing astrid, min, & rhiannon’s friendship blossom was so sweet and the snowball fight was one of my favorite scenes!
that ending? diabolical. i actually was about to throw my kindle out the wall once i flipped the page and it said acknowledgments. i need book 2 and answers ASAP. i especially need to know what a certain name he calls her means!!
thank you so much netgalley & forever publishing for this e-arc! i’m definitely going to check out clare’s other books after this! ♥︎
“𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒍𝒐𝒐𝒌...𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒂𝒓𝒆𝒏’𝒕 𝒋𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒃𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒉𝒕𝒂𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈—𝒚𝒐𝒖’𝒗𝒆 𝒈𝒐𝒕 𝒅𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒉 𝒉𝒊𝒎𝒔𝒆𝒍𝒇 𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒈𝒆𝒕𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒊𝒕 𝒊𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒉𝒆.”
—
this was such a fun romantasy!!! i loved how well it balanced politics, trials, & romance. i was absolutely glued to this book that i finished it in 24 hours. he kidnaps her to force her to marry him? that was all i needed to have me SAT.
the fmc being in her 30s was super refreshing. i also loved how her chronic illness was very well written. i felt strongly for rhiannon from the first chapter and i adored seeing her grow into herself throughout the book.
drystan, oh my god this man. i folded the first time he appeared but i swear he just kept getting better. he’s so grumpy and broody but you know underneath he’s a secret softie, take for example said ghost cat he seems to complain about. oh and also his mouth is absolutely insane i had to stare at the wall for a good few minutes.
the found family was such a nice surprise in this. seeing astrid, min, & rhiannon’s friendship blossom was so sweet and the snowball fight was one of my favorite scenes!
that ending? diabolical. i actually was about to throw my kindle out the wall once i flipped the page and it said acknowledgments. i need book 2 and answers ASAP. i especially need to know what a certain name he calls her means!!
thank you so much netgalley & forever publishing for this e-arc! i’m definitely going to check out clare’s other books after this! ♥︎
“𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒍𝒐𝒐𝒌...𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒂𝒓𝒆𝒏’𝒕 𝒋𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒃𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒉𝒕𝒂𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈—𝒚𝒐𝒖’𝒗𝒆 𝒈𝒐𝒕 𝒅𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒉 𝒉𝒊𝒎𝒔𝒆𝒍𝒇 𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒈𝒆𝒕𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒊𝒕 𝒊𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒉𝒆.”
Review of advance copy
Honestly this was quite boring and I didn't care for any of the characters. All the twists weren't even shocking and I predicted they would happen. The ending wasn't even crazy, but also I don't really care about anyone so I'm just like 😐 okay, anyways.
Annon was a fine FMC I guess but I had no interest in her at all. And Drystan was just boring from page 1. I did not feel anything at all for the romance, nothing about them had me invested and I was so bored. I know I keep using the word "boring" but really that's how I felt for 80% of this book😭 The side characters were actually the most interesting part of this book although we didn't get much of them of course, but I really liked Min and Astrid!
This book really just dragged for me and I couldn't wait to finish. I started skimming some parts near the end because I wanted to be free of it. Disappointed I couldn't love this book because I so loved the artist lineup a certain book box had for it, but oh well, this just wasn't for me. At least it was a quick read?
Thank you Forever for the ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review!
Annon was a fine FMC I guess but I had no interest in her at all. And Drystan was just boring from page 1. I did not feel anything at all for the romance, nothing about them had me invested and I was so bored. I know I keep using the word "boring" but really that's how I felt for 80% of this book😭 The side characters were actually the most interesting part of this book although we didn't get much of them of course, but I really liked Min and Astrid!
This book really just dragged for me and I couldn't wait to finish. I started skimming some parts near the end because I wanted to be free of it. Disappointed I couldn't love this book because I so loved the artist lineup a certain book box had for it, but oh well, this just wasn't for me. At least it was a quick read?
Thank you Forever for the ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review!
January 9, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
Oh my. A dark, elder emo MMC who melts for her in a marriage of convenience?! Sign me up!!! If you guys know me then you know arranged marriage is my favorite trope. There’s just something about the forced proximity leading to a MY WIFE moment. When I saw it was one of the tropes of this book I basically let out a pterodactyl scream of excitement!
Annon, our FMC, is a human who is sickly in her world and is abducted by our MMC, Drystan, who is King of the underworld essentially - giving us some Hades vibes. To make matters more complicated, in Drystan’s court, weakness is looked down upon and Annon must exude strength. Annon wants nothing more than to escape her marriage so she makes an accord with Drystan that if she can escape his Labyrinth by working through it each day and pretend to be his doting finance by night, then she can return to the human world. Annon’s trips through the Labyrinth lead to much self discovery and she learns that maybe she cannot trust anyone, including those who she cares about most.
King of Ravens is book 1 of a Duology and does have a cliffhanger ending. I cannot WAIT for book 2 and I just know this will be yet another fantastic series in the Sagerverse!
Read this if you like:
🖤 elder emo MMC vibes
🖤 arranged marriage
🖤 Grumpy x Sunshine
🖤 Hades x Persephone inspired Romantasy duet
🖤 chronic illness rep
🖤 political intrigue
🖤 plot with some spice
🖤 Cliffy ending leaving you wanting more
Thank you so much to Clare for letting me read this early and letting me be part of her Hype Team!! 🥳
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
Oh my. A dark, elder emo MMC who melts for her in a marriage of convenience?! Sign me up!!! If you guys know me then you know arranged marriage is my favorite trope. There’s just something about the forced proximity leading to a MY WIFE moment. When I saw it was one of the tropes of this book I basically let out a pterodactyl scream of excitement!
Annon, our FMC, is a human who is sickly in her world and is abducted by our MMC, Drystan, who is King of the underworld essentially - giving us some Hades vibes. To make matters more complicated, in Drystan’s court, weakness is looked down upon and Annon must exude strength. Annon wants nothing more than to escape her marriage so she makes an accord with Drystan that if she can escape his Labyrinth by working through it each day and pretend to be his doting finance by night, then she can return to the human world. Annon’s trips through the Labyrinth lead to much self discovery and she learns that maybe she cannot trust anyone, including those who she cares about most.
King of Ravens is book 1 of a Duology and does have a cliffhanger ending. I cannot WAIT for book 2 and I just know this will be yet another fantastic series in the Sagerverse!
Read this if you like:
🖤 elder emo MMC vibes
🖤 arranged marriage
🖤 Grumpy x Sunshine
🖤 Hades x Persephone inspired Romantasy duet
🖤 chronic illness rep
🖤 political intrigue
🖤 plot with some spice
🖤 Cliffy ending leaving you wanting more
Thank you so much to Clare for letting me read this early and letting me be part of her Hype Team!! 🥳
January 14, 2026
I was so excited for this book, I love Claire Sager, but this one fell very flat for me. I was really torn between 2 and 3 stars, I honestly added another star for The Collector and side characters who held my attention more than the main characters. This book had a lot to say, while simultaneously nothing at all. The first 30% had me intrigued and I liked where the story was going and then it sort of just fell flat.
We have an ill FMC who was bargained to the King of Death by her father to be his bride before she was even born. She spends most of the book just talking about needing her medicine, being tired, and wanting to go home. We have an MMC who we didn’t get enough on page time with to develop any connection to. Him being the King of Death was really his only interesting quality. It’s talked about how magic less our human FMC is but throughout the entire book the only people was saw actually use any magic is the King, the female rival, and it was one time casually thrown in and out of the blue, and then one other person (it’d be a spoiler to share who). It just felt like the same situation repeated over and over throughout the entire book. The FMC is offered a bargain to go home, by completing a labyrinth, but really it was just her walking through a maze and resting.
I will say I did love 2 of the side characters and their building relationship, as well as The Collector in the labyrinth. The ending intrigued me enough to give book 2 a try, but it was still a little underwhelming and felt like it was done for shock factor. Overall, if you are a beginner to romantasy and want a book with no world building, essentially no magic system, and love a character driven plot you may enjoy this book.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Forever publishing for the opportunity to read this pre-release in exchange for my honest review.
We have an ill FMC who was bargained to the King of Death by her father to be his bride before she was even born. She spends most of the book just talking about needing her medicine, being tired, and wanting to go home. We have an MMC who we didn’t get enough on page time with to develop any connection to. Him being the King of Death was really his only interesting quality. It’s talked about how magic less our human FMC is but throughout the entire book the only people was saw actually use any magic is the King, the female rival, and it was one time casually thrown in and out of the blue, and then one other person (it’d be a spoiler to share who). It just felt like the same situation repeated over and over throughout the entire book. The FMC is offered a bargain to go home, by completing a labyrinth, but really it was just her walking through a maze and resting.
I will say I did love 2 of the side characters and their building relationship, as well as The Collector in the labyrinth. The ending intrigued me enough to give book 2 a try, but it was still a little underwhelming and felt like it was done for shock factor. Overall, if you are a beginner to romantasy and want a book with no world building, essentially no magic system, and love a character driven plot you may enjoy this book.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Forever publishing for the opportunity to read this pre-release in exchange for my honest review.
January 25, 2026
King of Ravens is classic romantasy! We have an alluring world you will long to discover, a romance that brings tension, angst, and swoons, and a lead protagonist you will effortlessly root for as she takes on a world so unlike her own. I truly felt invested and engaged through...especially with *that* cliffhanger! Oh myyy! 4.5
Rhiannon (Annon) is a sheltered woman who is desperate to find a cure for an unknown illness slowly depleting her life. A life soon to be thrown into disarray when she finds out that long before she was born, her father entered a bargain, sacrificing her, his future daughter, to become the bride of the King of Death, Drystan. A king who is also forced by his mother into said bargain. Soon, in a tale inspired by Hades and Persephone, Annon is whisked into the underworld where she enters her own bargain with Drystan. Take time out of every day to try to escape a labyrinth out of the underworld and she may return home, as long she she returns every evening to playact dutiful, loving fiancée in front of the fae court of the King of Death.
I was enthralled by the Underworld! All of the world-building was easy to follow, to imagine, and to immerse into wholly. Even as it sent shivers down my spine, I wanted to traverse that multi-layered labyrinth alongside Annon and the Collector. I longed to don the same political amor as Annon did as she navigated the complexity of fae court. When I read romantasy, world-building can either be far too thin or far too much. It's always a delight when a story gets it just right, where you don't feel overwhelmed by information overloaded nor feel lost without enough to go on. The picture is painted beautifully, whether it's the literal setting, the political scheming court, or the humble home Annon was raised in. I visualized it all easily. It came to life quite beautifully.
As did our heroine.
If you know me well, then you know of all the types of protagonists, it's the soft heroines who own my heart most of all. Annon is an exemplary soft heroine. She may not be a seasoned fighter, or have a prowess with some sort of power, she is simply a woman who courageously uses her wits, her heart, and her determination to survive. To survive day in and day out. I was inspired by Annon, by her strength of heart. Choosing kindness as she tentatively became friends with the likes of Min, and choosing courage, as she fights to get back to her family, even it meant facing the greatest of fears. I also sympathized so greatly with her. She wears false smiles like armor, both in front of her family to hide how ill she became, and in front of the fae court to play her part well. But I just wanted to hug her and remind her it's okay to not be okay. She was so brave for others, that she did not dare allow a perceived weakness to show. I loved her and admired her even more so as she faces a series of betrayals she must contend with. Also, she's a heroine in her early 30s which I looooved! If memory serves she is 33! As a fellow member of the 30s club, this just made me love and relate to Annon even more!
As for the romance: it's a yes from me! I loved the true feeling of enemies-to-lovers between Annon and Drystan. That said, I was frustrated at times by how he was not so willingly forthcoming and would react hot and cold towards her. He was very much an enigma! At times fascinating me, other times just aggravating me, hah! But I do think that's on purpose, he's a very layered character and it takes time to start to understand him. And yet, even when he remained an unknown in many ways, I was taken by the reluctant romance seemingly evolving between he and Annon. The chemistry is gorgeus and truly does have you wanted them to clear up communication and get to know one another better! I'm excited, nervous, and utterly intrigued to see how it continues in the sequel.
At times some of the dialogue felt a bit too modern, but there were moments it actually fit. Including certain items featured that felt modern yet in place. So while it did throw me off at times, it didn't disrupt my engagement like this sort of thing usually does. I kept on turning those pages with enthusiasm and anticipation!
But that cliffhanger! Arghhhh! ...you know what, the less I say the more your jaw will drop! After I recovered from the shock, I just wanted to run around screaming, maybe even throw a tantrum or two because how dare this enthralling journey leave us off with THAT?!? Well played, Clare Sager, well played! Because my attention is caught, left in want, left in desperation to know what will happen nexttt! Guess I'll have to stick around to find. Luckily that's one very happy task to take on.
Count me in for the long haul!
Thank you Forever and NetGalley for the complimentary eARC, I leave this honest review voluntarily.
Rhiannon (Annon) is a sheltered woman who is desperate to find a cure for an unknown illness slowly depleting her life. A life soon to be thrown into disarray when she finds out that long before she was born, her father entered a bargain, sacrificing her, his future daughter, to become the bride of the King of Death, Drystan. A king who is also forced by his mother into said bargain. Soon, in a tale inspired by Hades and Persephone, Annon is whisked into the underworld where she enters her own bargain with Drystan. Take time out of every day to try to escape a labyrinth out of the underworld and she may return home, as long she she returns every evening to playact dutiful, loving fiancée in front of the fae court of the King of Death.
I was enthralled by the Underworld! All of the world-building was easy to follow, to imagine, and to immerse into wholly. Even as it sent shivers down my spine, I wanted to traverse that multi-layered labyrinth alongside Annon and the Collector. I longed to don the same political amor as Annon did as she navigated the complexity of fae court. When I read romantasy, world-building can either be far too thin or far too much. It's always a delight when a story gets it just right, where you don't feel overwhelmed by information overloaded nor feel lost without enough to go on. The picture is painted beautifully, whether it's the literal setting, the political scheming court, or the humble home Annon was raised in. I visualized it all easily. It came to life quite beautifully.
As did our heroine.
If you know me well, then you know of all the types of protagonists, it's the soft heroines who own my heart most of all. Annon is an exemplary soft heroine. She may not be a seasoned fighter, or have a prowess with some sort of power, she is simply a woman who courageously uses her wits, her heart, and her determination to survive. To survive day in and day out. I was inspired by Annon, by her strength of heart. Choosing kindness as she tentatively became friends with the likes of Min, and choosing courage, as she fights to get back to her family, even it meant facing the greatest of fears. I also sympathized so greatly with her. She wears false smiles like armor, both in front of her family to hide how ill she became, and in front of the fae court to play her part well. But I just wanted to hug her and remind her it's okay to not be okay. She was so brave for others, that she did not dare allow a perceived weakness to show. I loved her and admired her even more so as she faces a series of betrayals she must contend with. Also, she's a heroine in her early 30s which I looooved! If memory serves she is 33! As a fellow member of the 30s club, this just made me love and relate to Annon even more!
As for the romance: it's a yes from me! I loved the true feeling of enemies-to-lovers between Annon and Drystan. That said, I was frustrated at times by how he was not so willingly forthcoming and would react hot and cold towards her. He was very much an enigma! At times fascinating me, other times just aggravating me, hah! But I do think that's on purpose, he's a very layered character and it takes time to start to understand him. And yet, even when he remained an unknown in many ways, I was taken by the reluctant romance seemingly evolving between he and Annon. The chemistry is gorgeus and truly does have you wanted them to clear up communication and get to know one another better! I'm excited, nervous, and utterly intrigued to see how it continues in the sequel.
At times some of the dialogue felt a bit too modern, but there were moments it actually fit. Including certain items featured that felt modern yet in place. So while it did throw me off at times, it didn't disrupt my engagement like this sort of thing usually does. I kept on turning those pages with enthusiasm and anticipation!
But that cliffhanger! Arghhhh! ...you know what, the less I say the more your jaw will drop! After I recovered from the shock, I just wanted to run around screaming, maybe even throw a tantrum or two because how dare this enthralling journey leave us off with THAT?!? Well played, Clare Sager, well played! Because my attention is caught, left in want, left in desperation to know what will happen nexttt! Guess I'll have to stick around to find. Luckily that's one very happy task to take on.
Count me in for the long haul!
Thank you Forever and NetGalley for the complimentary eARC, I leave this honest review voluntarily.
January 28, 2026
5 Stars
WARNING: HIGHLY ADDICTIVE!
Clare Sager - what did you put in this book?!
I was so excited for this book and it certainly didn't let me down!
King of Ravens is about Rhiannon (Annon), a 33yo woman who suffers severely from chronic illness. She lives with her parents and brother in their remote seaside home and constantly tries to research for a cure. However suddenly, her small world is turned upside down when the King of Death, Drystan, takes her into the Underworld where the Fae live. She is to be his bride unless she can escape through a dangerous labyrinth.
This book is an absolute masterpiece. The worldbuilding is brilliantly done and the writingnwas so engaging. The storyline is so addictive, full of twists and turns and had me gripped throughout. It is filled with interesting and exciting themes including enemies to lovers, slow burn romance, magical creatures, dangerous trials, deception and a fae court that is extremely tricky to navigate! I was already giving it 5 Stars and then the ending happened and blew my socks off! No spoilers, but...WOW.
I was so excited that this book had chronic illness as a main theme and thankfully it was written with thoughtfulness and knowledge. Not only for how the FMC is affected by her illness physically but also emotionally and mentally. At one point a comment makes her feel extreme grief over not getting the life she always wanted. It really hit me hard as I feel the exact way so often. It broke my heart, but it also felt wonderful to be seen. I am so thankful to Clare Sager for writing this important theme so perfectly.
I adored all the characters. Our FMC Annon suffers so badly with her illness and yet is still clever, brave and fierce. However she is also scared, vulnerable, sad and self conscious. I adored her for all her traits, including her brilliant wit and banter! She is also so kind and caring and I connected with her instantly because she is so relatable for me.
The MMC Drystan is a Fae King under a lot of pressure. He is cold, unkind and has so many walls up. However seeing him slowly soften and start to be kind and caring for Annon made me so happy. The romance was slow and steady but full of banter and passion. Plus the smut was well written and not overdone. I loved it!
King of Ravens was everything I wanted and SO much more. I couldn't recommend it more for Romantasy fans and I am utterly DESPERATE and FERAL for book two!
Please note that I was given this book in exchange for an honest review.
WARNING: HIGHLY ADDICTIVE!
Clare Sager - what did you put in this book?!
I was so excited for this book and it certainly didn't let me down!
King of Ravens is about Rhiannon (Annon), a 33yo woman who suffers severely from chronic illness. She lives with her parents and brother in their remote seaside home and constantly tries to research for a cure. However suddenly, her small world is turned upside down when the King of Death, Drystan, takes her into the Underworld where the Fae live. She is to be his bride unless she can escape through a dangerous labyrinth.
This book is an absolute masterpiece. The worldbuilding is brilliantly done and the writingnwas so engaging. The storyline is so addictive, full of twists and turns and had me gripped throughout. It is filled with interesting and exciting themes including enemies to lovers, slow burn romance, magical creatures, dangerous trials, deception and a fae court that is extremely tricky to navigate! I was already giving it 5 Stars and then the ending happened and blew my socks off! No spoilers, but...WOW.
I was so excited that this book had chronic illness as a main theme and thankfully it was written with thoughtfulness and knowledge. Not only for how the FMC is affected by her illness physically but also emotionally and mentally. At one point a comment makes her feel extreme grief over not getting the life she always wanted. It really hit me hard as I feel the exact way so often. It broke my heart, but it also felt wonderful to be seen. I am so thankful to Clare Sager for writing this important theme so perfectly.
I adored all the characters. Our FMC Annon suffers so badly with her illness and yet is still clever, brave and fierce. However she is also scared, vulnerable, sad and self conscious. I adored her for all her traits, including her brilliant wit and banter! She is also so kind and caring and I connected with her instantly because she is so relatable for me.
The MMC Drystan is a Fae King under a lot of pressure. He is cold, unkind and has so many walls up. However seeing him slowly soften and start to be kind and caring for Annon made me so happy. The romance was slow and steady but full of banter and passion. Plus the smut was well written and not overdone. I loved it!
King of Ravens was everything I wanted and SO much more. I couldn't recommend it more for Romantasy fans and I am utterly DESPERATE and FERAL for book two!
Please note that I was given this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 22, 2026
4.25⭐️
That ending…THERE’S NO WAY!!! I’m going to need book 2 ASAP because I don’t believe that to be true! NOPE! NOOO!
This is my first read of Clare’s and it won’t be my last; obvious to the statement above. I loved the characters in this book and the interesting meaning to Annon’s name.
Annon broke something in me because it hit true to my own diagnosis, just wanting it to be over and wishing for some cure. Every time Annon would mention how frail she was, I wondered what was happening and I was right; which I won’t spoil.
Drystan I loved! He is the perfect dark and broody MMC that I look for. I appreciate the difference in Annon and Drystan’s relationship when they were alone vs in front of others. I loved their little secret!! But again, the ending I don’t believe to be true!!!!
I did appreciate not having a long explanation of the trials. Right when I read about it I had some dread. It I appreciate the little glimpses here and there and only showing the important pieces to the story.
I’m really curious where Clare is going to take Annon and Drystan’s story because I am in full denial but I’m also very concerned. IYKYK.
Thank you Netgalley, Clare and the publisher for an advanced copy!!! I loved it!
That ending…THERE’S NO WAY!!! I’m going to need book 2 ASAP because I don’t believe that to be true! NOPE! NOOO!
This is my first read of Clare’s and it won’t be my last; obvious to the statement above. I loved the characters in this book and the interesting meaning to Annon’s name.
Annon broke something in me because it hit true to my own diagnosis, just wanting it to be over and wishing for some cure. Every time Annon would mention how frail she was, I wondered what was happening and I was right; which I won’t spoil.
Drystan I loved! He is the perfect dark and broody MMC that I look for. I appreciate the difference in Annon and Drystan’s relationship when they were alone vs in front of others. I loved their little secret!! But again, the ending I don’t believe to be true!!!!
I did appreciate not having a long explanation of the trials. Right when I read about it I had some dread. It I appreciate the little glimpses here and there and only showing the important pieces to the story.
I’m really curious where Clare is going to take Annon and Drystan’s story because I am in full denial but I’m also very concerned. IYKYK.
Thank you Netgalley, Clare and the publisher for an advanced copy!!! I loved it!
January 29, 2026
I loved this. I was immediately sucked in and invested. I loved the characters, the fmc (she’s 33!!) is very relatable in her uselessness and lack of stamina. The mmc is a secret sweetheart, he’s just a bit awkward. He gifts her a cat 🥹
It’s a Hades and Persephone retelling. That’s it, you don’t even need to squint. She has plant magic and he’s the king of the underworld. He’s also down bad for her almost instantly which we love. I usually like a really slow burn actually, hence why this is 4 stars instead of 5. The romance was the main plot and slightly less satisfying than it could have been because I felt like it happened a bit too quickly. They hated each other and then they were all over each other in a matter of chapters, it was wild. I did enjoy it a lot though.
The non-romance sub plot was kind of uninteresting. She was doing some labyrinthine trials so she could win a ticket back to the surface world. That’s kind of it, and it wasn’t explored enough for it to have had much weight to it. But the ending was good, a little predictable, but not enough for me to have disliked it. I really did have a good time with this one. The mmc was so hot 🥵
It’s a Hades and Persephone retelling. That’s it, you don’t even need to squint. She has plant magic and he’s the king of the underworld. He’s also down bad for her almost instantly which we love. I usually like a really slow burn actually, hence why this is 4 stars instead of 5. The romance was the main plot and slightly less satisfying than it could have been because I felt like it happened a bit too quickly. They hated each other and then they were all over each other in a matter of chapters, it was wild. I did enjoy it a lot though.
The non-romance sub plot was kind of uninteresting. She was doing some labyrinthine trials so she could win a ticket back to the surface world. That’s kind of it, and it wasn’t explored enough for it to have had much weight to it. But the ending was good, a little predictable, but not enough for me to have disliked it. I really did have a good time with this one. The mmc was so hot 🥵
February 4, 2026
“He ripped a man’s throat out for me and made him present his own tongue at my feet.”
Please stop advertising everything as enemies to lovers when in reality it’s just “he brooded at her and she didn’t like it.” Yes, yes, stolen away from her family by the big scary (not) Death (or fae? Or King of Death? I dunno) and forced to be his bride. Sure, I guess that makes you enemies, but there wasn’t really all that much tension or anything that really sold enemies to me.
The writing was okay, and it had a great premise, but I found it quite boring, and I won’t be continuing this series.
The chronic illness. Spoilers for that and the “big” reveal at the end, although I saw it coming since it was obvious. I almost DNFd at 89% tho. Because what a fucking insult to people who have chronic illness. This would have been maybe a 3.75 star, but this reveal brought it down to 3. I get this won’t bother the majority of people, but having this rep in a book, only for this to happen, I can’t.
Thank you to the publisher for sending me an ARC!
Please stop advertising everything as enemies to lovers when in reality it’s just “he brooded at her and she didn’t like it.” Yes, yes, stolen away from her family by the big scary (not) Death (or fae? Or King of Death? I dunno) and forced to be his bride. Sure, I guess that makes you enemies, but there wasn’t really all that much tension or anything that really sold enemies to me.
The writing was okay, and it had a great premise, but I found it quite boring, and I won’t be continuing this series.
The chronic illness. Spoilers for that and the “big” reveal at the end, although I saw it coming since it was obvious. I almost DNFd at 89% tho. Because what a fucking insult to people who have chronic illness. This would have been maybe a 3.75 star, but this reveal brought it down to 3. I get this won’t bother the majority of people, but having this rep in a book, only for this to happen, I can’t.
Thank you to the publisher for sending me an ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I have to start off by saying a huge thankyou to waywardtxf for giving me a chance to read this early, I love Clare's books, Shadows of the Tenebris Court being a favourite (P.s theres a cross over WE LOVE THE SABREVERSE!) and it was such a privilege to read her new book! Firstly can we get a big ol cheer for FMCs in their 30s?! Thankyou please 🙏 and also the chronic illness rep? (Wait a minute, is this play about me😂) the illness and the hardships it can cause was depicted authentically and with sensitivity which was *chefs kiss*, I felt seen and so validated 🥹 this was DELICIOUS, not only did we have a spicy enemies to lovers with sizzling tension and chemistry, we had a propulsive plot full of betrayal, trials and unexpected twists that kept me turning pages long after I should of gone to bed (eye bags hello) the world building was so intricate and the writing was lush, the ending? Shooketh. Cannot wait for the next book (literally though, I can't) this also had a found family feel to it, I cant praise it enough
Tropes:
Grumpy X Sunshine
Death Daddy
Enemies to Lovers
Really Sexy Stuff (is that a trope?)
Tropes:
Grumpy X Sunshine
Death Daddy
Enemies to Lovers
Really Sexy Stuff (is that a trope?)
January 2, 2026
An absolute wild ride from start to finish. A slow burn and a twisty burn. I’m absolutely dying at the cliffhanger ending!!! Clare!!! How could you do this to me 😭
I love every moment of this dark, underlie fae book of secrets and resilience.
A must read fantasy!!
I love every moment of this dark, underlie fae book of secrets and resilience.
A must read fantasy!!
December 29, 2025
OH THE HADES AND PERSEPHONE OF IT ALLLLLLLL I LIVE!!!!
I did NOT know whatever that this man was gonna be the king of the underworld. The minute I found out about it I was so locked in.
What I loved:
- FMC is 30 years old
- overcoming the obstacles of chronic illness
- MMC is legit morally grey and DEATH itself and that’s all I need
- set up for the next book has me very interested
- Arranged marriage is always a win to me
What didn’t work for me:
- none of the plot twists surprised me
- didn’t care about the trials of the labyrinth
- it was slow to get me invested - I finally felt invested around 30%-40%
- ravens legit were a D plotline
However all of that being said, I really enjoyed the writing and the last few chapters had me locked in and I cannot WAIT for the next book cause give me ALLL the princes of hell.
Thanks to Forever and NetGalley for the eARC!
I did NOT know whatever that this man was gonna be the king of the underworld. The minute I found out about it I was so locked in.
What I loved:
- FMC is 30 years old
- overcoming the obstacles of chronic illness
- MMC is legit morally grey and DEATH itself and that’s all I need
- set up for the next book has me very interested
- Arranged marriage is always a win to me
What didn’t work for me:
- none of the plot twists surprised me
- didn’t care about the trials of the labyrinth
- it was slow to get me invested - I finally felt invested around 30%-40%
- ravens legit were a D plotline
However all of that being said, I really enjoyed the writing and the last few chapters had me locked in and I cannot WAIT for the next book cause give me ALLL the princes of hell.
Thanks to Forever and NetGalley for the eARC!
December 13, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Forever Publishing for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
I have complicated feelings about this one. If you know me personally, you know that Clare Sager’s Shadows of the Tenebris Court series is one of my favorite trilogies I’ve ever read.
So when she announced her publishing deal with Forever Publishing and it was a book about Drystan (who we are briefly introduced to at the end of A Promise of Lies), I was beyond excited.
However, this story felt underdeveloped compared to everything else she’s written. While I enjoyed some aspects, mainly the characters and the moments that happen outside of the labyrinth. I couldn’t help but feel the labyrinth and plot itself felt bare bones.
The story did feel very much like a first or second draft. The ideas were there, but things were not fleshed out. The time we spend with Rhiannon inside the labyrinth is fairly minimal. We only really get scenes there when she’s close to the end and going through a trial. And I’m not going to lie, I was confused on what counted as a trial and what didn’t.
I found the first 50% of the book to be pretty slow. The romance between Drystan and Rhiannon doesn’t start until the halfway point. But when it does, it’s extremely enjoyable. I felt as though we finally were getting somewhere with the plot and that Drystan was a fairly interesting and lovable love interest.
The ending felt a bit rushed but I’m willing to continue the series because while this isn’t Clare’s best book, I did still enjoy it. I’m thinking because this book was more so fast tracked for publishing (it was announced only 3 months ago) and it’s already being published in January of 2026, Clare didn’t get as much time for development as she usually does with her indie books. I’m thinking book two is likely going to be an improvement as she’ll have more time to work on it. But that could be me!
Overall, decent. Could be better but still a good time.
3.5 stars
I have complicated feelings about this one. If you know me personally, you know that Clare Sager’s Shadows of the Tenebris Court series is one of my favorite trilogies I’ve ever read.
So when she announced her publishing deal with Forever Publishing and it was a book about Drystan (who we are briefly introduced to at the end of A Promise of Lies), I was beyond excited.
However, this story felt underdeveloped compared to everything else she’s written. While I enjoyed some aspects, mainly the characters and the moments that happen outside of the labyrinth. I couldn’t help but feel the labyrinth and plot itself felt bare bones.
The story did feel very much like a first or second draft. The ideas were there, but things were not fleshed out. The time we spend with Rhiannon inside the labyrinth is fairly minimal. We only really get scenes there when she’s close to the end and going through a trial. And I’m not going to lie, I was confused on what counted as a trial and what didn’t.
I found the first 50% of the book to be pretty slow. The romance between Drystan and Rhiannon doesn’t start until the halfway point. But when it does, it’s extremely enjoyable. I felt as though we finally were getting somewhere with the plot and that Drystan was a fairly interesting and lovable love interest.
The ending felt a bit rushed but I’m willing to continue the series because while this isn’t Clare’s best book, I did still enjoy it. I’m thinking because this book was more so fast tracked for publishing (it was announced only 3 months ago) and it’s already being published in January of 2026, Clare didn’t get as much time for development as she usually does with her indie books. I’m thinking book two is likely going to be an improvement as she’ll have more time to work on it. But that could be me!
Overall, decent. Could be better but still a good time.
3.5 stars
October 26, 2025
Alllllll the thanks to Clare for letting me read this early (multiple times), and so many thanks for having me as a Beta reader.
OMG Y'ALL ARE NOT PREPARED! This was magnificent! We've got a Hades-Persephone thing going on with a CRANKY King of the Underworld and a ray of sunshine human. Drystan and Annon are just *chef's kiss.* I wanted to slap him so many times, but then I also wanted to lick his chest. Pretty sure Annon felt the same. Their banter is great, the angry slow burn is burning, and the steam is SCORCHING.
The underworld that Clare created is so evocative. I felt the chill, and I was captivated. There's also a great cast of characters, and a LOVELY side sapphic romance I adored. The Labyrinth is something else too. Parts scary as hell, parts tempting, and all parts seeming impossible. I may have fallen in love with one of the monsters in it.
Ok, so you know Clare loves to torture her readers, right? Well, just be prepared to scream and throw things at that ending! Maybe even curse her name. I'm already SALIVATING over getting a glimpse of the next book.
Obviously, highly recommended. Also, it's not essential that you've read her other books, but if you have, you'll see some fun easter eggs that make you go hmmmmm.
I will leave you with some of my unhinged and out of context reading reactions here to encourage you to pick up this masterpiece!
*COME TO ME MY PRETTIES
*NOM NOM NOM
*RUDE ASSHAT
*This is HAUNTING
*Stop being poetic before I swoon
*I'm sweating. This is my nightmare
*SO HOT AND SO RUDE
*WHY DO YOU RUIN THE PERFECTION AND HOTNESS OF THIS SCENE
*This just makes me heel-kickingly giddy!
*ahhhhhh screaming in fright
*So gross, but in a weird rewarding way?
*OMGF WHAT
*HOT HOT HOT I AM A PUDDLE
*STOP MAKING ME CRY SO MUCH
*awwwww sh*t
OMG Y'ALL ARE NOT PREPARED! This was magnificent! We've got a Hades-Persephone thing going on with a CRANKY King of the Underworld and a ray of sunshine human. Drystan and Annon are just *chef's kiss.* I wanted to slap him so many times, but then I also wanted to lick his chest. Pretty sure Annon felt the same. Their banter is great, the angry slow burn is burning, and the steam is SCORCHING.
The underworld that Clare created is so evocative. I felt the chill, and I was captivated. There's also a great cast of characters, and a LOVELY side sapphic romance I adored. The Labyrinth is something else too. Parts scary as hell, parts tempting, and all parts seeming impossible. I may have fallen in love with one of the monsters in it.
Ok, so you know Clare loves to torture her readers, right? Well, just be prepared to scream and throw things at that ending! Maybe even curse her name. I'm already SALIVATING over getting a glimpse of the next book.
Obviously, highly recommended. Also, it's not essential that you've read her other books, but if you have, you'll see some fun easter eggs that make you go hmmmmm.
I will leave you with some of my unhinged and out of context reading reactions here to encourage you to pick up this masterpiece!
*COME TO ME MY PRETTIES
*NOM NOM NOM
*RUDE ASSHAT
*This is HAUNTING
*Stop being poetic before I swoon
*I'm sweating. This is my nightmare
*SO HOT AND SO RUDE
*WHY DO YOU RUIN THE PERFECTION AND HOTNESS OF THIS SCENE
*This just makes me heel-kickingly giddy!
*ahhhhhh screaming in fright
*So gross, but in a weird rewarding way?
*OMGF WHAT
*HOT HOT HOT I AM A PUDDLE
*STOP MAKING ME CRY SO MUCH
*awwwww sh*t
December 7, 2025
Thank you for the ARC Clare Sager and Forever Publishing!
King of Ravens is the perfect alchemy of everything I love in fantasy: the dark-soft ache of Beauty and the Beast, the magnetic pull of a Hades and Persephone reimagining, and the sharp, otherworldly shimmer of classic unseelie fae lore.
I was hooked from the first chapter — the atmosphere, the slow-burn chemistry, and the moody fae world all worked so well together. With that cliffhanger, I can’t wait for book 2!
King of Ravens is the perfect alchemy of everything I love in fantasy: the dark-soft ache of Beauty and the Beast, the magnetic pull of a Hades and Persephone reimagining, and the sharp, otherworldly shimmer of classic unseelie fae lore.
I was hooked from the first chapter — the atmosphere, the slow-burn chemistry, and the moody fae world all worked so well together. With that cliffhanger, I can’t wait for book 2!
December 23, 2025
4/5
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for the e-arc in exchange for an honest review!
What a fun fantasy book! With this, I do think Clare Sager has cemented herself as one of my favourite casual romantasy authors. Her plots aren’t epic (at least not the stories I’ve read) and are very much focused on one place and the characters most impacted by anything that will happen in this one place. I enjoy the smaller scale of her stories. The setting in this novel is vivid and very interesting, and also almost claustrophobic in a way.
Annon is a very solid main character. I always enjoy a main character whose wishes stay the same unless there’s a very good reason for them to change. I do wish we had seen more growth for Annon though. I also am disappointed by some revelations regarding her illness, I was hoping it would be representation of natural chronic illness, but it was not :(
Drystan is hard to get a read on. I liked him but he didn’t stand out. I feel his POV would have helped me understand his motivations. I get that the mystery is part of the allure and all that but I was just a bit annoyed at parts.
I did enjoy all of the side characters! So yay!
The plot itself is very small scale and I wasn’t SUPER invested just because I didn’t think Annon would fail. The end is interesting though and I’m curious how it’ll play out in book 2.
My biggest complaint with the book is that the pacing near the end is wacky. We have a revelation then a time skip then some events and then a cliffhanger but the characters we see in the last 10% are new ones and I wish we’d seen them or read about them before so we could know a bit more about who they were. I also can’t help but feel it could have been set up for a love interest switch if done a bit differently. I’m doubtful that’s the lane this story is taking but I wasn’t fully sold on the romance. It happened a bit too quick for me and I do think Annon was just falling for the first person who showed her love in a way. Which is sad.
I am intrigued by the end and I do think I’ll be picking up the sequel!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for the e-arc in exchange for an honest review!
What a fun fantasy book! With this, I do think Clare Sager has cemented herself as one of my favourite casual romantasy authors. Her plots aren’t epic (at least not the stories I’ve read) and are very much focused on one place and the characters most impacted by anything that will happen in this one place. I enjoy the smaller scale of her stories. The setting in this novel is vivid and very interesting, and also almost claustrophobic in a way.
Annon is a very solid main character. I always enjoy a main character whose wishes stay the same unless there’s a very good reason for them to change. I do wish we had seen more growth for Annon though. I also am disappointed by some revelations regarding her illness, I was hoping it would be representation of natural chronic illness, but it was not :(
Drystan is hard to get a read on. I liked him but he didn’t stand out. I feel his POV would have helped me understand his motivations. I get that the mystery is part of the allure and all that but I was just a bit annoyed at parts.
I did enjoy all of the side characters! So yay!
The plot itself is very small scale and I wasn’t SUPER invested just because I didn’t think Annon would fail. The end is interesting though and I’m curious how it’ll play out in book 2.
My biggest complaint with the book is that the pacing near the end is wacky. We have a revelation then a time skip then some events and then a cliffhanger but the characters we see in the last 10% are new ones and I wish we’d seen them or read about them before so we could know a bit more about who they were. I also can’t help but feel it could have been set up for a love interest switch if done a bit differently. I’m doubtful that’s the lane this story is taking but I wasn’t fully sold on the romance. It happened a bit too quick for me and I do think Annon was just falling for the first person who showed her love in a way. Which is sad.
I am intrigued by the end and I do think I’ll be picking up the sequel!
January 27, 2026
• Adjusted Rating: 3.25 stars!!
• POV: 1st Person / Single
• Book Spice: Level 2
• Content Thoughts:
I was really close to DNFing this book at the beginning. The setting and world just weren’t given enough care early on, which made it difficult for me to clearly follow where the characters were, what they were doing, or what they were interacting with. Because of that, I struggled to fully settle into the story at first.
That said, things did improve as I continued reading. The writing became easier to follow, and I felt more grounded in the world as the book went on, which helped me stay engaged.
The plot itself wasn’t all that original to me, and it also wasn’t executed in a way that felt especially new or majorly intriguing. Still, it was good enough to keep me reading, and I am willing to continue the series to see how everything ultimately wraps up.
Overall, the book felt pretty bland, but not unreadable. The romance was cute, and there were a few moments where I found myself rooting for the couple.
This definitely isn’t a book I would rush to reread, but it was decent enough for a one-time read. I did like the plot twist, even though I saw it coming, and I was glad to be right.
Thank you Forever Publishing for this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
• POV: 1st Person / Single
• Book Spice: Level 2
• Content Thoughts:
I was really close to DNFing this book at the beginning. The setting and world just weren’t given enough care early on, which made it difficult for me to clearly follow where the characters were, what they were doing, or what they were interacting with. Because of that, I struggled to fully settle into the story at first.
That said, things did improve as I continued reading. The writing became easier to follow, and I felt more grounded in the world as the book went on, which helped me stay engaged.
The plot itself wasn’t all that original to me, and it also wasn’t executed in a way that felt especially new or majorly intriguing. Still, it was good enough to keep me reading, and I am willing to continue the series to see how everything ultimately wraps up.
Overall, the book felt pretty bland, but not unreadable. The romance was cute, and there were a few moments where I found myself rooting for the couple.
This definitely isn’t a book I would rush to reread, but it was decent enough for a one-time read. I did like the plot twist, even though I saw it coming, and I was glad to be right.
Thank you Forever Publishing for this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
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