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Haunted Crowns
One prophecy. Two ancient enemies. A fate written in blood.
Eris Dragov, daughter of a vampire king, has spent her life haunted by visions of the future. When her prophecies reveal an ancient curse capable of destroying both vampire and werewolf realms, she becomes the unwilling keeper of a truth that could unravel the world she knows.
Burdened by restless spirits and the weight of what is yet to come, Eris is forced into an impossible bond with a werewolf Alpha. What begins as necessity soon becomes something far more dangerous. A connection neither of them can escape, and a forbidden love neither can fully understand.
But the past refuses to remain buried.
When a vampire prince returns from exile, carrying old obsessions and unresolved wounds, Eris finds herself caught between loyalty, desire, and destiny. As war draws near and ancient powers awaken, every choice pulls her further toward the future she has foreseen.
In a world haunted by loss and prophecy, Eris must decide whether fate is something to follow, or something to fight.
Haunted Crowns is a dark fantasy romance filled with atmospheric magic, forbidden love, and a character-driven journey through fate, grief, and destiny. Perfect for readers who enjoy lyrical prose, emotional depth, haunting fantasy worlds, and stories that linger long after the final page.
Author’s Note: This is a complete standalone romance with a satisfying ending. Because readers fell in love with these characters, a sequel is now in the works.
424 pages, Paperback
Published April 21, 2026
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February 28, 2026Haunted Crowns is a dark romantasy built on messy loyalties, hidden agendas, and a complicated love triangle, with vampire and werewolf set against a fragile balance of power.
The world is heavy with tension and secrets, and there’s a constant sense that something bigger and more dangerous is moving just beneath the surface.
While it was my vibe. It did take me sometime to fully settle. In the earlier chapters, I occasionally wished for more grounding and detail to help certain scenes and emotional moments land with greater impact. The narrative moved quickly between events and perspectives, which made it harder for me to feel certain scenes land more fully.
That said, the second half is where the book really came alive for me. As the stakes intensified and the bigger picture started to come together, I found myself much more invested. The tension escalates significantly, the conflict becomes more visceral, and the plot twists kept me turning pages through the final stretch.
The writing style is poetic and emotionally driven, giving the story a distinctive voice throughout. By the end, it feels very much like the beginning of something larger, with plenty of threads left to explore in future installments.
Overall, while the first half was more challenging for me to connect with, the latter half delivered enough suspense and payoff to make it a memorable read. Readers who enjoy darker fantasy with romantic tension, layered politics, and high emotional stakes will likely find a lot to appreciate here.
Thank you, E.S. Kaeryel, for the opportunity to be part of your ARC team 🖤
I’m excited to see what comes next for you!
The world is heavy with tension and secrets, and there’s a constant sense that something bigger and more dangerous is moving just beneath the surface.
While it was my vibe. It did take me sometime to fully settle. In the earlier chapters, I occasionally wished for more grounding and detail to help certain scenes and emotional moments land with greater impact. The narrative moved quickly between events and perspectives, which made it harder for me to feel certain scenes land more fully.
That said, the second half is where the book really came alive for me. As the stakes intensified and the bigger picture started to come together, I found myself much more invested. The tension escalates significantly, the conflict becomes more visceral, and the plot twists kept me turning pages through the final stretch.
The writing style is poetic and emotionally driven, giving the story a distinctive voice throughout. By the end, it feels very much like the beginning of something larger, with plenty of threads left to explore in future installments.
Overall, while the first half was more challenging for me to connect with, the latter half delivered enough suspense and payoff to make it a memorable read. Readers who enjoy darker fantasy with romantic tension, layered politics, and high emotional stakes will likely find a lot to appreciate here.
Thank you, E.S. Kaeryel, for the opportunity to be part of your ARC team 🖤
I’m excited to see what comes next for you!
April 29, 2026
I liked this, but I felt like I was missing key points. The relationship between Eris and Kareon felt rushed, the moments they had especially at the beginning I felt were lacking the connection to make their relationship stronger, the feeling was there but I didnt see how it was more insta love and when I think it needed to be grown especially because the pack was made to lovelier as well, I just didnt see how if there wasnt a major points that made them follow her so quickly. The relationship between the 3 MCs also could've been better if it was show together rather than in separate parts i think would solidify the connection. But I'd read book 2, to see the evolution.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is an arc novel I received from ES Kaeryel. I loved it. Its her debut novel as an indie author. Its about a vampire princess and prince that are in love and ready to go to war with the lycans but she falls for the alpha, Kareon almost instantly!! Hes my man!! I simply loved him!! He was my favorite character!! Sexy, cocky in an attractive way. Hes funny, patient. Both males would burn the world for her!! This book is a romantasy and it reminds me a lot of Underworld the movie. It will be releasing this spring. I cant say enough about the emotions I felt reading this!! Some of those scenes hit me hard and I definitely shed some tears. The war scene at the end was well written and so entertaining and satisfying. The book was beautifully written. I highlighted so many lines I loved and Im not normally an anecdote person. I cant wait for part 2!!! #teamkareon #eskaeryel #hauntedcrowns
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review - Dark Gothic Romantasy - I devoured this book in 2 days. The poetic prose was so beautiful. The dialogue was perfection. The slow burn and the banter were great. These characters had such strong chemistry. This story had me in a chokehold!
Review of advance copy
This was my first ARC from Book Sirens.
Wow. Where to start. At first I didn't think this book was for me. But I kept reading and man oh man is it for me ! I got sucked into this book. I am keeping my review plain without spoilers. I hope there's a second and hopefully a 3. The story was absolutely captivating. At one point it nearly brought me to tears. What a wonderful book. The characters are so unique and the story , just when you think you know what's going to happen; nope you don't. This is a definite must read!
I received an advanced review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Wow. Where to start. At first I didn't think this book was for me. But I kept reading and man oh man is it for me ! I got sucked into this book. I am keeping my review plain without spoilers. I hope there's a second and hopefully a 3. The story was absolutely captivating. At one point it nearly brought me to tears. What a wonderful book. The characters are so unique and the story , just when you think you know what's going to happen; nope you don't. This is a definite must read!
I received an advanced review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
I devoured this story. It had everything, Wars, family curses, kingdoms, a love triangle, The lot.
The plot was really good, i did find it a bit slow paced to begin with, but when the action started i was instantly gripped and could not read it quick enough.
The was perfect as well with the three off them bound together no matter what, through blood and divinity
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The plot was really good, i did find it a bit slow paced to begin with, but when the action started i was instantly gripped and could not read it quick enough.
The was perfect as well with the three off them bound together no matter what, through blood and divinity
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Crown, Claw, and a Divided Heart
In a kingdom where unity is a façade and power is divided by bloodline, Haunted Crowns delivers a layered fantasy romance driven as much by political tension as by matters of the heart.
What truly pulled me in was the emotional complexity of the love triangle between Eris, Stephan, and Kareon. The tension didn’t feel manufactured — it felt inevitable. I found myself genuinely torn, understanding and connecting with both men in different ways.
Eris stood out to me as a heroine shaped by isolation and expectation. As a Firstblood vampire princess, she has grown up confined within a system that prizes purity and control, her trances viewed as instability rather than strength. Watching her navigate a world that sees her as both symbol and liability added a quiet ache to her journey. Her resilience felt earned, and I appreciated that her strength wasn’t loud — it was steady and intentional.
Stephan surprised me with the depth of his devotion. As General and future king, he embodies order and legacy, carrying the weight of responsibility within a fractured political hierarchy. Beneath that discipline lies fierce protectiveness. The moments where he stands unwavering in his support of Eris carried real emotional weight for me. His struggle between duty and personal loyalty made him more than just the “royal choice” — it made him deeply layered and emotionally compelling.
Kareon, Alpha of the Lycans, brings a raw intensity that shifts the energy of every scene he enters. His authority feels forged through struggle rather than inheritance, and that instinct-driven strength contrasts powerfully with royal composure. His soul-bond with Eris adds emotional gravity to their connection, making it feel instinctual and undeniable while deepening the stakes of the triangle.
What worked especially well for me was how the political tension amplified the romance rather than overshadowed it. The divided hierarchy and fragile balance of power made every emotional decision feel consequential.
A richly layered romantasy where power is inherited, seized, and fiercely defended — and love complicates everything.
- I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. -
In a kingdom where unity is a façade and power is divided by bloodline, Haunted Crowns delivers a layered fantasy romance driven as much by political tension as by matters of the heart.
What truly pulled me in was the emotional complexity of the love triangle between Eris, Stephan, and Kareon. The tension didn’t feel manufactured — it felt inevitable. I found myself genuinely torn, understanding and connecting with both men in different ways.
Eris stood out to me as a heroine shaped by isolation and expectation. As a Firstblood vampire princess, she has grown up confined within a system that prizes purity and control, her trances viewed as instability rather than strength. Watching her navigate a world that sees her as both symbol and liability added a quiet ache to her journey. Her resilience felt earned, and I appreciated that her strength wasn’t loud — it was steady and intentional.
Stephan surprised me with the depth of his devotion. As General and future king, he embodies order and legacy, carrying the weight of responsibility within a fractured political hierarchy. Beneath that discipline lies fierce protectiveness. The moments where he stands unwavering in his support of Eris carried real emotional weight for me. His struggle between duty and personal loyalty made him more than just the “royal choice” — it made him deeply layered and emotionally compelling.
Kareon, Alpha of the Lycans, brings a raw intensity that shifts the energy of every scene he enters. His authority feels forged through struggle rather than inheritance, and that instinct-driven strength contrasts powerfully with royal composure. His soul-bond with Eris adds emotional gravity to their connection, making it feel instinctual and undeniable while deepening the stakes of the triangle.
What worked especially well for me was how the political tension amplified the romance rather than overshadowed it. The divided hierarchy and fragile balance of power made every emotional decision feel consequential.
A richly layered romantasy where power is inherited, seized, and fiercely defended — and love complicates everything.
- I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. -
Review of advance copy received from Author
First, I want to thank the author/publisher and BookSirens for this free ARC and especially for letting me critique your art. I know it is your love child.
I LOVED this book. The author’s note stated that the author was unable to pick a favorite of the main characters. I feel the same. They were complicated and raw and you love all 3 in different ways. The book engages you quickly and there are so many different twists and turns that you are wondering what will happen next. When you think you know what’s going to happen and how it will finish, it completely surprises you. Every. Time. Yes, I had tears, but no spoilers.
If I could say anything that could be critical, it would be the use of the number of similes and metaphors. That is not something I would normally notice and I did notice that it felt like a high number. But, that is completely subjective, and I’m sure some would disagree, because, overall, they built the depth of the characters. It didn’t take away from the story at all.
One final comment. I thought the author’s use of spice was tasteful. In my opinion, I would put it at the lower end of the scale. I don’t mind spice as long as it isn’t the whole plot. That being said, I don’t need 10 pages with lots of detail. No judgments if you like ‘the more spice the better’. I’m rather new to fantasy/romantasy and have read books I loved that had a high level of spice, so I’m letting you know where I feel it is at on the spectrum.
Now, I will be looking forward to the second book. I know this is a debut, so I really hope the author has the next one 3/4 finished so I don’t have to wait a long time.
I LOVED this book. The author’s note stated that the author was unable to pick a favorite of the main characters. I feel the same. They were complicated and raw and you love all 3 in different ways. The book engages you quickly and there are so many different twists and turns that you are wondering what will happen next. When you think you know what’s going to happen and how it will finish, it completely surprises you. Every. Time. Yes, I had tears, but no spoilers.
If I could say anything that could be critical, it would be the use of the number of similes and metaphors. That is not something I would normally notice and I did notice that it felt like a high number. But, that is completely subjective, and I’m sure some would disagree, because, overall, they built the depth of the characters. It didn’t take away from the story at all.
One final comment. I thought the author’s use of spice was tasteful. In my opinion, I would put it at the lower end of the scale. I don’t mind spice as long as it isn’t the whole plot. That being said, I don’t need 10 pages with lots of detail. No judgments if you like ‘the more spice the better’. I’m rather new to fantasy/romantasy and have read books I loved that had a high level of spice, so I’m letting you know where I feel it is at on the spectrum.
Now, I will be looking forward to the second book. I know this is a debut, so I really hope the author has the next one 3/4 finished so I don’t have to wait a long time.
Review of advance copy
This book absolutely sunk its teeth into me and refused to let go.
This book is everything I want from a dark fantasy — myth, magic, war, bloodshed, betrayal, and a love triangle that will have you picking sides like it’s Team Edward vs Team Jacob all over again… except this time it’s Team Stefan or Team Kareon.
From the very beginning the story pulls you into a world filled with ancient magic, powerful creatures, and a conflict that feels bigger than the characters themselves. The tension between vampires and werewolves creates such a dangerous and addictive atmosphere, and the stakes constantly feel high with death, war, and secrets lurking in every corner.
What really made me fall in love with this book was the love triangle, especially as it is forbidden love between vampires and werewolves. I genuinely kept going back and forth trying to decide who I was rooting for. Stefan and Kareon are both compelling in completely different ways, and the emotional pull between them and the FMC adds so much depth and tension to the story. It gave me those nostalgic Twilight-era vibes of picking a side, but the story itself is far darker, richer, and packed with mythology.
The writing is immersive, the worldbuilding is vivid, and the mix of romance, danger, and supernatural politics kept me hooked the entire time.
If you love vampires, werewolves, magic, war-driven fantasy worlds, and a love triangle that will emotionally ruin you, you need to read this.
And for the record… very much like the FMC I’m still deciding if I’m Team Stefan or Team Kareon.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book is everything I want from a dark fantasy — myth, magic, war, bloodshed, betrayal, and a love triangle that will have you picking sides like it’s Team Edward vs Team Jacob all over again… except this time it’s Team Stefan or Team Kareon.
From the very beginning the story pulls you into a world filled with ancient magic, powerful creatures, and a conflict that feels bigger than the characters themselves. The tension between vampires and werewolves creates such a dangerous and addictive atmosphere, and the stakes constantly feel high with death, war, and secrets lurking in every corner.
What really made me fall in love with this book was the love triangle, especially as it is forbidden love between vampires and werewolves. I genuinely kept going back and forth trying to decide who I was rooting for. Stefan and Kareon are both compelling in completely different ways, and the emotional pull between them and the FMC adds so much depth and tension to the story. It gave me those nostalgic Twilight-era vibes of picking a side, but the story itself is far darker, richer, and packed with mythology.
The writing is immersive, the worldbuilding is vivid, and the mix of romance, danger, and supernatural politics kept me hooked the entire time.
If you love vampires, werewolves, magic, war-driven fantasy worlds, and a love triangle that will emotionally ruin you, you need to read this.
And for the record… very much like the FMC I’m still deciding if I’m Team Stefan or Team Kareon.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 4, 2026
When I hear 'love triangle' I often run for the hills, but here it worked SO well. This story has an excellently written love triangle that made me want both MMCs for Eris, and I kept flip flopping and I still can't land on who I love more, Stephan or Kareon. The vampires and lycans, war, world-building, mythology, and plot were so compelling to me, and the beautiful writing had immersed me into this world so easily. Eris was a very interesting FMC to me and I'm most eager to see how she moves forward in book 2. The twists and turns were so good and had me guessing the whole book, and got me to tears a few times. I really enjoyed the ending because it was powerful, intense, and supremely satisfying. What a great read!
Thank you to BookSirens for the copy of this book, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Thank you to BookSirens for the copy of this book, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
I really enjoyed this book. It was a page turner and a finished it very quickly. I liked there was political intrigue between 3 main parties and how the dynamics flowed and changed between these groups as the plot developed. The FMC has some chosen one vibes, and I like how this related to a wider history in the world. The romance arch ia great and I like how it merged different tropes. The author has a fantastic writing style. The imagery, personification etc was really captivating and the use of different sentence types gave it good pace. She's very talented. If you're a romantcy fan who loves vampires, lycans, war, emerging evil and high stakes, this book is for you.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC of Haunted Crowns in exchange for an honest review. This is my first ARC review, and I’m grateful for the opportunity.
Haunted Crowns is a dark romance fantasy featuring vampires, lycans, political intrigue, and an intense love triangle. The story follows a vampire heroine who can sense the emotions of others and receive premonitions. As the daughter of one of the Twin Kings, she is caught between duty, danger, and forbidden desire.
One of the strongest aspects of this book is its emotional depth. The heroine’s abilities feel both like a gift and a curse, and I loved seeing how they influence her relationships and choices. The atmosphere is dark, heavy, and immersive from the very first pages.
The love triangle is a major highlight. Both love interests are distinct, compelling, and deeply devoted, which makes the emotional tension feel real and painful in the best way. While I have a soft spot for Kareon, my favorite character ended up being Stephan because of his presence and emotional impact.
I would have loved a bit more detailed descriptions of both the characters and the world. A deeper level of detail could have made the setting feel even more vivid and immersive.
Overall, Haunted Crowns is a gripping dark romance fantasy filled with passion, danger, and heartbreak. Perfect for readers who enjoy morally gray characters, supernatural politics, and intense romantic tension.
Haunted Crowns is a dark romance fantasy featuring vampires, lycans, political intrigue, and an intense love triangle. The story follows a vampire heroine who can sense the emotions of others and receive premonitions. As the daughter of one of the Twin Kings, she is caught between duty, danger, and forbidden desire.
One of the strongest aspects of this book is its emotional depth. The heroine’s abilities feel both like a gift and a curse, and I loved seeing how they influence her relationships and choices. The atmosphere is dark, heavy, and immersive from the very first pages.
The love triangle is a major highlight. Both love interests are distinct, compelling, and deeply devoted, which makes the emotional tension feel real and painful in the best way. While I have a soft spot for Kareon, my favorite character ended up being Stephan because of his presence and emotional impact.
I would have loved a bit more detailed descriptions of both the characters and the world. A deeper level of detail could have made the setting feel even more vivid and immersive.
Overall, Haunted Crowns is a gripping dark romance fantasy filled with passion, danger, and heartbreak. Perfect for readers who enjoy morally gray characters, supernatural politics, and intense romantic tension.
April 19, 2026
It was written well, easy to follow, captivating characters and a unique storyline.
What a powerful story. Of never giving up on yourself. Of making the hard choices; for love, of self and others. This isn’t just a typical vampire vs wolf (Lycan); this was so much more. Breaking generational curses, standing up for what you believe in, and fighting the difficult fight. I absolutely would recommend for anyone that loves a good romantasy/paranormal romance, with some epic battle scenes that will keep you on your toes as these three love interests continue through this series.
What a powerful story. Of never giving up on yourself. Of making the hard choices; for love, of self and others. This isn’t just a typical vampire vs wolf (Lycan); this was so much more. Breaking generational curses, standing up for what you believe in, and fighting the difficult fight. I absolutely would recommend for anyone that loves a good romantasy/paranormal romance, with some epic battle scenes that will keep you on your toes as these three love interests continue through this series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Amazing read it in 2 days, I couldn't put it down, can't wait for the next one.Great book, thank you for allowing me to read it. Just a note I'd change the font on the cover if you don't stare at it it appears to say hunted crows. But otherwise perfection, I could not put it down, wish I had a hardcopy to read at anytime.
Review of advance copy received from Author
From the very first chapter of Haunted Crowns, S. Kaeryel proves an extraordinary ability to craft characters that feel hauntingly real and impossible to forget. Chapter one doesn’t simply introduce the cast it immerses you in their fears, ambitions, and hidden wounds with such depth that you feel immediately tethered to their journeys. The emotional undercurrents are palpable, and the tension is expertly woven, pulling you forward from the very first page.
What makes this novel especially captivating is how those initial impressions only grow stronger. The characters evolve in ways that feel authentic and earned, their relationships layered with complexity and quiet intensity. Kaeryel’s writing allows you to see not just what they do, but why they do it and that intimacy makes every choice, betrayal, and triumph resonate deeply.
The prose itself is beautifully constructed lyrical without being overwhelming, sharp without losing its emotional weight. Each chapter ends with just enough revelation or suspense to make it nearly impossible to put the book down. There’s a steady, deliberate pacing that builds intrigue while rewarding the reader with meaningful development and richly drawn scenes.
Haunted Crowns is more than just a compelling story it’s an experience that lingers. From the captivating opening chapter to the final page, S. Kaeryel keeps you fully invested, always wanting more. It’s a masterfully written novel that reminds you why immersive storytelling matters.
What makes this novel especially captivating is how those initial impressions only grow stronger. The characters evolve in ways that feel authentic and earned, their relationships layered with complexity and quiet intensity. Kaeryel’s writing allows you to see not just what they do, but why they do it and that intimacy makes every choice, betrayal, and triumph resonate deeply.
The prose itself is beautifully constructed lyrical without being overwhelming, sharp without losing its emotional weight. Each chapter ends with just enough revelation or suspense to make it nearly impossible to put the book down. There’s a steady, deliberate pacing that builds intrigue while rewarding the reader with meaningful development and richly drawn scenes.
Haunted Crowns is more than just a compelling story it’s an experience that lingers. From the captivating opening chapter to the final page, S. Kaeryel keeps you fully invested, always wanting more. It’s a masterfully written novel that reminds you why immersive storytelling matters.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Vampires, werewolves, magic, a long term war, a kingdom at stake, two love interests and one woman at the center of it all. This was an action packed read that I didn't want to put down. Thank you E.S. Kaeryel for my arc.
Review of advance copy received from Author
forbidden bonds, supernatural tensions and destiny driven twists this book had me hooked. I couldn't put this one down! this one is definitely worth reading!
Review of advance copy
Review of advance copy
Thanks so much BookSirens and E.S. Kaeryel for the ARC!
This dark fantasy romance has a lot of interesting elements, including political intrigue, a love triangle, and some strong emotional themes that pull you right in. The tone was quickly set and the slow burn romance keeps you wanting more. That said, I personally would have preferred a bit more build-up, as some of those relationships felt like they developed a little too quickly.
However, the writing - oof! I was so impressed with the poetic style and how beautifully the words came off the pages. So well done! 🫶🏽
Overall, there are vampires, lycans, alliances, forbidden love, warring factions, and a strong-willed FMC who will just not back down; something I can absolutely get behind!
Definitely recommend for anyone who loves these tropes:
💔 Forbidden love
⚔️ Enemies to lovers
❤️ Friends to lovers
🖤 Morally grey MMCs
🔥 Slow burn
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Thanks so much BookSirens and E.S. Kaeryel for the ARC!
This dark fantasy romance has a lot of interesting elements, including political intrigue, a love triangle, and some strong emotional themes that pull you right in. The tone was quickly set and the slow burn romance keeps you wanting more. That said, I personally would have preferred a bit more build-up, as some of those relationships felt like they developed a little too quickly.
However, the writing - oof! I was so impressed with the poetic style and how beautifully the words came off the pages. So well done! 🫶🏽
Overall, there are vampires, lycans, alliances, forbidden love, warring factions, and a strong-willed FMC who will just not back down; something I can absolutely get behind!
Definitely recommend for anyone who loves these tropes:
💔 Forbidden love
⚔️ Enemies to lovers
❤️ Friends to lovers
🖤 Morally grey MMCs
🔥 Slow burn
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
March 2, 2026
Damn, the love triangle is toooooo HOT and THE TEA BURRRRRRRNNNSSS! Drink up but the slower the better 🤭
ARC| I can’t way for you guys to loose your mind over Kareon and Stephan.
Eris is soo relatable and she makes me feel seen, I love the way she comes into her power and doesn’t second guess her choices. She is very motivated 😜
Stephan is my boy next door, I love him soo much, from the first chapter he stole my heart but as all first loves end the second one EASTS. Team Kareon 4Life !
ARC| I can’t way for you guys to loose your mind over Kareon and Stephan.
Eris is soo relatable and she makes me feel seen, I love the way she comes into her power and doesn’t second guess her choices. She is very motivated 😜
Stephan is my boy next door, I love him soo much, from the first chapter he stole my heart but as all first loves end the second one EASTS. Team Kareon 4Life !
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you so much to the author and BookSirens for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This book was so poetic and I enjoyed it a lot. I think it was an easy and fantastic book to read and I really loved the world and the characters, and oh my gosh it was all beautifully done.
This book was so poetic and I enjoyed it a lot. I think it was an easy and fantastic book to read and I really loved the world and the characters, and oh my gosh it was all beautifully done.
Review of advance copy
I would say maybe closer to 3.5 than 3
This book has left me not quite knowing what to say! I felt the story had so much potential and the characters could have been heart breaking but the book just didn't quite make it.
It felt too rushed with the story but overly descriptive at times, however I can really see this story developing into something I can't put down.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thanks Book sirens and the authority for sharing!
This book has left me not quite knowing what to say! I felt the story had so much potential and the characters could have been heart breaking but the book just didn't quite make it.
It felt too rushed with the story but overly descriptive at times, however I can really see this story developing into something I can't put down.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thanks Book sirens and the authority for sharing!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed this book and these characters. It was different from what I thought it would be like. It's not your typical vampire/lycan book, it had a different spin that I enjoyed. The book was very fast moving and kept me guessing. There weren't boring moments. The ending wasn't how I thought the love triangle would go… Unlike the author, I definitely had a favorite character!!!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 23, 2026
ARC Review — Haunted Crowns
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️♾️
First, thank you to the author for reaching out to me directly—I’m genuinely so grateful I got to experience this story early.
This book started as a slow burn in every sense of the word. The pacing, the world-building, the character dynamics—it all unfolds gradually. I’ll be honest, in the beginning I wasn’t completely hooked yet. I kept waiting for that moment where everything would click.
And then it did.
And once it did, it absolutely refused to let go.
The story is told in third person POV, which works beautifully for the scope of this world. It has a very cinematic, immersive quality—like watching something unfold rather than just reading it. The overall vibe leans heavily into dark academia with supernatural and royal elements, and it carries strong energy reminiscent of series like Crave, Legacies, and The Vampire Diaries, with hints of that emotionally charged, divided-loyalty tension you’d find in The Twilight Saga
Eris is such a strong, compelling protagonist. She’s sharp, stubborn, emotional, and constantly evolving as the story pushes her into impossible situations. Watching her navigate everything—her identity, her power, her place between worlds—was one of the most engaging parts of the book.
And then there are the relationships.
This isn’t a simple love triangle. It feels like one at first, but the deeper you go, the more it becomes something else entirely—something tied to fate, legacy, and balance.
Stephan represents history, devotion, and an almost painful kind of loyalty. His love feels rooted in promises, in protection, in I will stand between you and the world no matter the cost.
Kareon, on the other hand, is raw and elemental. His connection to Eris feels instinctive, powerful, almost inevitable—like something written into the fabric of who they are.
What makes it so compelling is that neither feels wrong. Neither feels temporary. It creates this constant tension where you’re not just choosing between two people—you’re questioning what each of them means for her future.
The romance itself is a true slow burn, but when it ignites, it burns. The tension builds and builds until it spills over into moments that are intense, emotional, and sometimes overwhelming in the best way. There are scenes that genuinely made me stop and just sit there for a second because of how much weight they carried.
About halfway through, the story shifts in a major way. The stakes rise, the pacing accelerates, and everything becomes bigger—ancient prophecies, blood magic, ancestral ties, and revelations that reframe everything you thought you understood. From that point on, I was completely locked in.
The second half of the book delivers on all of it—action, emotion, and high-stakes conflict. The war isn’t just physical; it’s deeply tied to history, identity, and cycles that the characters are desperately trying to break. There are moments of betrayal, sacrifice, and heartbreak that hit hard, especially as past and present begin to mirror each other.
And then the ending.
It goes beyond what I expected. What starts as a story about power and romance evolves into something much larger—about legacy, divinity, and balance. By the end, Eris is no longer just navigating the world around her—she becomes something that reshapes it.
“This was no love triangle. This was divine order.”
That line captures the heart of it perfectly.
Overall, this is a story that rewards patience. If you let it build, if you let yourself sink into the world and the characters, it delivers an incredibly intense and satisfying payoff. The emotional depth, the character dynamics, and the scale of the story all come together in a way that makes it hard to put down once it finds its stride.
I’m completely invested and absolutely need the next
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️♾️
First, thank you to the author for reaching out to me directly—I’m genuinely so grateful I got to experience this story early.
This book started as a slow burn in every sense of the word. The pacing, the world-building, the character dynamics—it all unfolds gradually. I’ll be honest, in the beginning I wasn’t completely hooked yet. I kept waiting for that moment where everything would click.
And then it did.
And once it did, it absolutely refused to let go.
The story is told in third person POV, which works beautifully for the scope of this world. It has a very cinematic, immersive quality—like watching something unfold rather than just reading it. The overall vibe leans heavily into dark academia with supernatural and royal elements, and it carries strong energy reminiscent of series like Crave, Legacies, and The Vampire Diaries, with hints of that emotionally charged, divided-loyalty tension you’d find in The Twilight Saga
Eris is such a strong, compelling protagonist. She’s sharp, stubborn, emotional, and constantly evolving as the story pushes her into impossible situations. Watching her navigate everything—her identity, her power, her place between worlds—was one of the most engaging parts of the book.
And then there are the relationships.
This isn’t a simple love triangle. It feels like one at first, but the deeper you go, the more it becomes something else entirely—something tied to fate, legacy, and balance.
Stephan represents history, devotion, and an almost painful kind of loyalty. His love feels rooted in promises, in protection, in I will stand between you and the world no matter the cost.
Kareon, on the other hand, is raw and elemental. His connection to Eris feels instinctive, powerful, almost inevitable—like something written into the fabric of who they are.
What makes it so compelling is that neither feels wrong. Neither feels temporary. It creates this constant tension where you’re not just choosing between two people—you’re questioning what each of them means for her future.
The romance itself is a true slow burn, but when it ignites, it burns. The tension builds and builds until it spills over into moments that are intense, emotional, and sometimes overwhelming in the best way. There are scenes that genuinely made me stop and just sit there for a second because of how much weight they carried.
About halfway through, the story shifts in a major way. The stakes rise, the pacing accelerates, and everything becomes bigger—ancient prophecies, blood magic, ancestral ties, and revelations that reframe everything you thought you understood. From that point on, I was completely locked in.
The second half of the book delivers on all of it—action, emotion, and high-stakes conflict. The war isn’t just physical; it’s deeply tied to history, identity, and cycles that the characters are desperately trying to break. There are moments of betrayal, sacrifice, and heartbreak that hit hard, especially as past and present begin to mirror each other.
And then the ending.
It goes beyond what I expected. What starts as a story about power and romance evolves into something much larger—about legacy, divinity, and balance. By the end, Eris is no longer just navigating the world around her—she becomes something that reshapes it.
“This was no love triangle. This was divine order.”
That line captures the heart of it perfectly.
Overall, this is a story that rewards patience. If you let it build, if you let yourself sink into the world and the characters, it delivers an incredibly intense and satisfying payoff. The emotional depth, the character dynamics, and the scale of the story all come together in a way that makes it hard to put down once it finds its stride.
I’m completely invested and absolutely need the next
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Imagine if Vampire Academy, Red Rising, and a really unhinged therapist’s notebook all got tossed into a blender and someone said, “What if we actually committed to the bit?” That’s this book.
We’ve got Eris Dragov, anxious disaster princess with battle trauma, prophetic nightmares, and an emotional support sword, stuck in a Summit that’s basically the G8 but with more fangs and war crimes. She’s torn between:
• Stephan, the “I will burn the world but also fold your laundry” crown prince.
• Kareon, the Lycan warlord who talks like a death goddess’s hype man and kisses like a religious experience.
Love triangle, you ask? Oh no. This is a love pentagram powered by generational trauma, political coups, and spirit magic.
The worldbuilding is gloriously extra: Firstblood nobility, the Obsidian Order being awful on purpose, Lycans oppressed and furious, humans at the very bottom, and everyone drinking synthetic blood while pretending they’re civilized. Spoiler: they are not civilized. They are catastrophically hot and terrible at communication.
Highlights:
• The drama: Unsent letters, sleepwalking humiliation caught on magic “comm-orbs,” and at least three scenes where someone thinks “I’ll leave so I don’t burden them” and you want to throw the book at their head. Affectionately.
• The romance: Melt-your-brain kisses, slow-burn years of pining, “touch her and die” energy, and sex scenes that are equal parts tender and, “Sir, this is a fantasy novel, not a structural stress test for a bedframe.”
• The politics: Councils, war councils, semi-divine omens everyone immediately misinterprets, and at least one coronation powered by “we’re calling this fate so we don’t have to admit we all made bad choices.”
Tone-wise, this book lives in the space between “I’d die for you” and “I’d kill for you” and frequently chooses “why not both?” People are always kneeling, swearing oaths, and making catastrophically intense declarations that had no business being that hot on a Tuesday.
Is it subtle? Absolutely not. This book is all-caps feelings, knife-to-the-throat intimacy, and “if you die, I die, and also the gods might get involved.” But it’s also about family, chosen and blood, trying very hard not to repeat the same cursed history, and asking whether power can exist without devouring love along the way.
If you like:
• Enemies-to-lovers-to-traumatized-allies
• Political fantasy where every treaty is one argument away from a duel
• Her: “I’ll save everyone.” Him: “I’ll save you.” Third guy: “I will absolutely help ruin your life emotionally.”
…then you’re probably the exact target audience.
Tentative rating: 4.5/5 “Dragovs don’t cower” speeches, rounded up because the angst-per-page ratio is truly elite.
Would 100% read the sequel, then lie down on the floor about it.
We’ve got Eris Dragov, anxious disaster princess with battle trauma, prophetic nightmares, and an emotional support sword, stuck in a Summit that’s basically the G8 but with more fangs and war crimes. She’s torn between:
• Stephan, the “I will burn the world but also fold your laundry” crown prince.
• Kareon, the Lycan warlord who talks like a death goddess’s hype man and kisses like a religious experience.
Love triangle, you ask? Oh no. This is a love pentagram powered by generational trauma, political coups, and spirit magic.
The worldbuilding is gloriously extra: Firstblood nobility, the Obsidian Order being awful on purpose, Lycans oppressed and furious, humans at the very bottom, and everyone drinking synthetic blood while pretending they’re civilized. Spoiler: they are not civilized. They are catastrophically hot and terrible at communication.
Highlights:
• The drama: Unsent letters, sleepwalking humiliation caught on magic “comm-orbs,” and at least three scenes where someone thinks “I’ll leave so I don’t burden them” and you want to throw the book at their head. Affectionately.
• The romance: Melt-your-brain kisses, slow-burn years of pining, “touch her and die” energy, and sex scenes that are equal parts tender and, “Sir, this is a fantasy novel, not a structural stress test for a bedframe.”
• The politics: Councils, war councils, semi-divine omens everyone immediately misinterprets, and at least one coronation powered by “we’re calling this fate so we don’t have to admit we all made bad choices.”
Tone-wise, this book lives in the space between “I’d die for you” and “I’d kill for you” and frequently chooses “why not both?” People are always kneeling, swearing oaths, and making catastrophically intense declarations that had no business being that hot on a Tuesday.
Is it subtle? Absolutely not. This book is all-caps feelings, knife-to-the-throat intimacy, and “if you die, I die, and also the gods might get involved.” But it’s also about family, chosen and blood, trying very hard not to repeat the same cursed history, and asking whether power can exist without devouring love along the way.
If you like:
• Enemies-to-lovers-to-traumatized-allies
• Political fantasy where every treaty is one argument away from a duel
• Her: “I’ll save everyone.” Him: “I’ll save you.” Third guy: “I will absolutely help ruin your life emotionally.”
…then you’re probably the exact target audience.
Tentative rating: 4.5/5 “Dragovs don’t cower” speeches, rounded up because the angst-per-page ratio is truly elite.
Would 100% read the sequel, then lie down on the floor about it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
If uncertainty, shifting loyalties, and a future that refuses to stay still were set inside a kingdom on the edge of something dangerous, you’d get Haunted Crowns.
Eris has always been set apart.
Whispered about. Watched. Labeled as something just slightly wrong by the standards of her kingdom.
The one constant in her life has been Stephan, someone who sees her clearly, without the weight of those rumors. Their connection is quiet but steady, built on something deeper than what either of them has fully put into words.
Until Kareon enters the picture.
And suddenly, everything Eris thought she understood, about herself, her future, and the path ahead, begins to shift.
What unfolds isn’t just a question of loyalty, but of survival… and what each of them is willing to risk for what’s coming.
This is a book that pulls you in quickly and doesn’t let go.
The pacing is steady without feeling rushed, and the story unfolds in a way that keeps you engaged from the first chapter through the final pages. There are quieter moments, but they feel intentional—placed where the story needs them rather than slowing it down.
At the center of the story is the dynamic between Eris, Stephan, and Kareon.
There’s tension here, not just romantic, but emotional and situational. Each character carries their own weight, their own motivations, and their own edges. Both Stephan and Kareon fall firmly into morally gray territory, which adds another layer to the story’s tone.
There are no easy choices, and no clear lines between right and wrong.
And that’s where the story really settles in.
While vampires and werewolves are part of the world, the “haunted” aspect of the title carries more weight than expected.
It threads through the story in a way that feels intentional and layered, but saying more would cross into spoiler territory, and this is one of those elements that’s better experienced without knowing too much going in.
This one stayed with me.
Not because it relied on shock or constant twists, but because it built something that felt complete, balanced across character, world, and story. The pacing, the relationships, and the underlying tension all work together in a way that feels cohesive rather than forced.
It’s rare for a book to land like that.
And it’s even rarer for it to leave me immediately wanting the next installment.
This book was provided as an ARC (Advanced Review Copy) in exchange for an honest review. No influence, no expectations, just my own experience with the story.
Eris has always been set apart.
Whispered about. Watched. Labeled as something just slightly wrong by the standards of her kingdom.
The one constant in her life has been Stephan, someone who sees her clearly, without the weight of those rumors. Their connection is quiet but steady, built on something deeper than what either of them has fully put into words.
Until Kareon enters the picture.
And suddenly, everything Eris thought she understood, about herself, her future, and the path ahead, begins to shift.
What unfolds isn’t just a question of loyalty, but of survival… and what each of them is willing to risk for what’s coming.
This is a book that pulls you in quickly and doesn’t let go.
The pacing is steady without feeling rushed, and the story unfolds in a way that keeps you engaged from the first chapter through the final pages. There are quieter moments, but they feel intentional—placed where the story needs them rather than slowing it down.
At the center of the story is the dynamic between Eris, Stephan, and Kareon.
There’s tension here, not just romantic, but emotional and situational. Each character carries their own weight, their own motivations, and their own edges. Both Stephan and Kareon fall firmly into morally gray territory, which adds another layer to the story’s tone.
There are no easy choices, and no clear lines between right and wrong.
And that’s where the story really settles in.
While vampires and werewolves are part of the world, the “haunted” aspect of the title carries more weight than expected.
It threads through the story in a way that feels intentional and layered, but saying more would cross into spoiler territory, and this is one of those elements that’s better experienced without knowing too much going in.
This one stayed with me.
Not because it relied on shock or constant twists, but because it built something that felt complete, balanced across character, world, and story. The pacing, the relationships, and the underlying tension all work together in a way that feels cohesive rather than forced.
It’s rare for a book to land like that.
And it’s even rarer for it to leave me immediately wanting the next installment.
This book was provided as an ARC (Advanced Review Copy) in exchange for an honest review. No influence, no expectations, just my own experience with the story.
Review of advance copy
A romantasy that is richly written, focused on devotion instead of lust, AND a standalone? Yes, please! And it wasn't even my cup of tea because I don't normally read vampire/werewolves books. Well done!
Minus, neutral and plus points, as usual:
☔ the world building was too thin for my liking, I couldn't understand what time we were in. They had devices, yet fought with swords and travelled with horses. The magic was also very loosely described. I didn't understand what Eris' spirits were, and why they were such a big deal.
☔ The plot felt a bit uneven.
☔ Perhaps it was a formatting error, but... Some chapters started with location + time of the day, some didn't. Some had it halfway the chapter. There was one chapter in the past, and it took me forever to figure out we'd returned to the present.
☔ This is more personal, but... I normally don't read
Neutral points:
☁️ The narrator is omniscient/head-hoppy, and it took me time to get accustomed to it. It put distance between me and the characters, but it made the story feel like a myth, which works well with its style and plot.
Plus points:
☀️ THE. WRITING. As soon as I read the sample, I knew this book would be for me, poetic and with beautiful imagery. It's not an easy feat to pull off, and though it did get a little repetitive at times, the author made it. A talent like this can only grow!
☀️ Love as devotion. I find it more and more rare in books these days, and it was beautifully depicted.
☀️ Can we talk about the fact that I don't have to read 5 other books for their HEA? It's not easy to wrap everything up in one book. Great job with that!
Minus, neutral and plus points, as usual:
☔ the world building was too thin for my liking, I couldn't understand what time we were in. They had devices, yet fought with swords and travelled with horses. The magic was also very loosely described. I didn't understand what Eris' spirits were, and why they were such a big deal.
☔ The plot felt a bit uneven.
☔ Perhaps it was a formatting error, but... Some chapters started with location + time of the day, some didn't. Some had it halfway the chapter. There was one chapter in the past, and it took me forever to figure out we'd returned to the present.
☔ This is more personal, but... I normally don't read
Neutral points:
☁️ The narrator is omniscient/head-hoppy, and it took me time to get accustomed to it. It put distance between me and the characters, but it made the story feel like a myth, which works well with its style and plot.
Plus points:
☀️ THE. WRITING. As soon as I read the sample, I knew this book would be for me, poetic and with beautiful imagery. It's not an easy feat to pull off, and though it did get a little repetitive at times, the author made it. A talent like this can only grow!
☀️ Love as devotion. I find it more and more rare in books these days, and it was beautifully depicted.
☀️ Can we talk about the fact that I don't have to read 5 other books for their HEA? It's not easy to wrap everything up in one book. Great job with that!
April 24, 2026
FORESHADOWING AT IT'S BEST!! 🔥
This book had me in a vise, not letting go until I reached the end, which was so eerie, it had chills cascading down my body. 🥶
Wdym the War & Kriponius were not the end!?
I'm so ready to devour book 2 as fast as I've done this one! 😋
If you love to read about the chosen one FMC who is fierce & strong-willed that brings the world to her knees.
Also if you have difficulty in choosing whether to read about werewolves or vampires? This book is for you... It has both! 🔥
What is the story about?
Eris is the chosen one & known as 'the one who hears the wind' since childhood which led her to be a princess trapped in a tower & her only childhood friend being - Stephan. Until she was allowed to attend the Astareth Summit.....
There she attracted the attention of rebel lycan leader, Kaeron....which led her a step closer towards discovering her true power & purpose.
She can feel others emotions & intentions. Also she could hear the calls of her ancestor whose legacy she carries....
Just like she's the chosen one....Kaeron & Stephan are her chosen fated mates....to protect Eris on her journey.
Together they make the world a better place & unite the factions from an evil rule set to divide them.
Kaeron is the one who would constantly challenge you & make you stronger while Stephan is the one who would hold you through your breakdown & whisper sweet things to you.
But they both together, will stand beside you & protect you till their last breaths!
This story has so much depth than I can ever put in words 🥹
It's such an emotional rollercoaster & wholesome at the same time during fluffy moments amongst the foreboding......
The battle was so immersive....it constantly had me on edge.... unpredictable moments thrown at me one after the other.
The plot twists were twisting so hard I could never contemplate what's about to come next.
I'm so thankful the author didn't make us choose sides. 😌 I could never have bear the seperation or to choose any one of them.
It's a love triangle but why choose? 😉
Though I feel bad for Kaeron he didn't have as many moments with Eris..... His confession had me in tears. 🥲
Everything in this book is perfect & in measured quantities that'll never bore you.... Drama, action, politics, foreboding, mystery, thrill, fluff, action, prophecy. You name it, it has it! 🔥
This book had me in a vise, not letting go until I reached the end, which was so eerie, it had chills cascading down my body. 🥶
Wdym the War & Kriponius were not the end!?
I'm so ready to devour book 2 as fast as I've done this one! 😋
If you love to read about the chosen one FMC who is fierce & strong-willed that brings the world to her knees.
Also if you have difficulty in choosing whether to read about werewolves or vampires? This book is for you... It has both! 🔥
What is the story about?
Eris is the chosen one & known as 'the one who hears the wind' since childhood which led her to be a princess trapped in a tower & her only childhood friend being - Stephan. Until she was allowed to attend the Astareth Summit.....
There she attracted the attention of rebel lycan leader, Kaeron....which led her a step closer towards discovering her true power & purpose.
She can feel others emotions & intentions. Also she could hear the calls of her ancestor whose legacy she carries....
Just like she's the chosen one....Kaeron & Stephan are her chosen fated mates....to protect Eris on her journey.
Together they make the world a better place & unite the factions from an evil rule set to divide them.
Kaeron is the one who would constantly challenge you & make you stronger while Stephan is the one who would hold you through your breakdown & whisper sweet things to you.
But they both together, will stand beside you & protect you till their last breaths!
This story has so much depth than I can ever put in words 🥹
It's such an emotional rollercoaster & wholesome at the same time during fluffy moments amongst the foreboding......
The battle was so immersive....it constantly had me on edge.... unpredictable moments thrown at me one after the other.
The plot twists were twisting so hard I could never contemplate what's about to come next.
I'm so thankful the author didn't make us choose sides. 😌 I could never have bear the seperation or to choose any one of them.
It's a love triangle but why choose? 😉
Though I feel bad for Kaeron he didn't have as many moments with Eris..... His confession had me in tears. 🥲
Everything in this book is perfect & in measured quantities that'll never bore you.... Drama, action, politics, foreboding, mystery, thrill, fluff, action, prophecy. You name it, it has it! 🔥
Review of advance copy
From the very first line of the dedication — “For the unseen. For those who watched from the shadows, too afraid to be broken again. For those told they were too much…” — I had a feeling this book was meant for me. What I did not expect was for it to exceed my expectations so completely.
Without a doubt, this is one of the best books I have read this year and an absolutely extraordinary debut. This story captivated me from the very beginning. I simply could not put it down. I devoured this book, and in many ways, it devoured me in return.
If you think a story about vampires and werewolves can no longer bring anything new to the table, Haunted Crowns will completely shatter that assumption. The world feels dark, rich, and deeply immersive, blending political intrigue, prophecy, and emotional intensity in a way that feels both fresh and compelling.
I absolutely fell in love with the characters. Eris is both vulnerable and remarkably strong, courageous, and quietly rebellious. Stephan, a calculated prince, is loyal to his legacy yet deeply devoted to the woman he loves. Kareon provides a refreshing balance with his honesty and rebellious spirit. The romance weaves seamlessly into the story, creating a compelling tension between duty, desire, and survival.
The dark atmosphere throughout the book was masterfully crafted, and the author’s writing style is beautifully poetic and profound. Some scenes felt almost cinematic in their intensity and imagery.
The story kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time. There was never a moment where the plot or character development felt stagnant. The pacing was gripping from beginning to end, and the stakes continue to rise as alliances shift, secrets unfold, and the future of the world becomes increasingly uncertain. And that ending… absolutely incredible.
I would like to wholeheartedly thank E. S. Kaeryel and BookSirens for the opportunity to read this ARC. Without hesitation, this is a 5/5 star read.
I would highly recommend it to readers who are looking for an immersive story filled with tension, longing, and unforgettable characters — the kind of book that lingers with you long after you close the final page.
Without a doubt, this is one of the best books I have read this year and an absolutely extraordinary debut. This story captivated me from the very beginning. I simply could not put it down. I devoured this book, and in many ways, it devoured me in return.
If you think a story about vampires and werewolves can no longer bring anything new to the table, Haunted Crowns will completely shatter that assumption. The world feels dark, rich, and deeply immersive, blending political intrigue, prophecy, and emotional intensity in a way that feels both fresh and compelling.
I absolutely fell in love with the characters. Eris is both vulnerable and remarkably strong, courageous, and quietly rebellious. Stephan, a calculated prince, is loyal to his legacy yet deeply devoted to the woman he loves. Kareon provides a refreshing balance with his honesty and rebellious spirit. The romance weaves seamlessly into the story, creating a compelling tension between duty, desire, and survival.
The dark atmosphere throughout the book was masterfully crafted, and the author’s writing style is beautifully poetic and profound. Some scenes felt almost cinematic in their intensity and imagery.
The story kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time. There was never a moment where the plot or character development felt stagnant. The pacing was gripping from beginning to end, and the stakes continue to rise as alliances shift, secrets unfold, and the future of the world becomes increasingly uncertain. And that ending… absolutely incredible.
I would like to wholeheartedly thank E. S. Kaeryel and BookSirens for the opportunity to read this ARC. Without hesitation, this is a 5/5 star read.
I would highly recommend it to readers who are looking for an immersive story filled with tension, longing, and unforgettable characters — the kind of book that lingers with you long after you close the final page.
April 21, 2026
Stars:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice: 🌶️/5
Wow. I DEVOURED Haunted Crowns in just two days! This is so beautifully written – the poetic prose fully embodied the dark gothic atmosphere, and created a haunting and enchanting experience that consumed me with its fierce passion and rebellion. I mean, I was UNWELL at 3% and sending all of my reactions to the author like she was my book bestie and doing a buddy read with me 😂
🖤Dark Gothic Romantasy
🗡️Enemies to Lovers & Friends to Lovers
🖤Forbidden Loves
🗡️Fated Mates
🖤Slow Burn & Earned Spice
🗡️Morally Gray Leads
🖤Trauma & Healing
Eris Dragov’s blood carries ancient power and the world demands a price be paid.
Daughter of a vampire king, Eris enters trances and hears voices no one else can – prophecy laid bare and whispers that could bring salvation or ruin.
Vampires and werewolf shifters, sworn enemies of empires on the verge of falling, and Eris is torn between them both – a devoted vampire heir and a rebel Lycan Alpha – a forbidden love that could tear the world apart…
I was transported into a different world and swept away by the power thrumming within Eris, the vampire heir, Stephan, and the Lycan Alpha, Kareon. These males couldn’t be more different, but what unites them is their willingness to burn the world down for the woman they are both destined to love. Whew! And the way these men love? SWOON! The slow burn tension, the yearning, the hard-earned spice, and learning that a heart can love differently…SO good! These rivals are brought together by forces beyond their control, and a desire to destroy the corruption in their midst, ready to create a world in which their Queen can live as she was always meant to be: freely uniting two peoples. The path is anything but easy, every step is hard-fought and not without casualties on both sides – political machinations and unfathomable power clashing while drawing blood. And when Eris comes into her own, reclaiming her legacy? Those she crowns in her fury are given purpose, and hope is a powerful thing in the face of fragile peace. Yet, claiming her legacy does not come without consequences and those had me SCREAMING and crying into a void. I uhhhhh just am now impatiently waiting for book two 😂
Spice: 🌶️/5
Wow. I DEVOURED Haunted Crowns in just two days! This is so beautifully written – the poetic prose fully embodied the dark gothic atmosphere, and created a haunting and enchanting experience that consumed me with its fierce passion and rebellion. I mean, I was UNWELL at 3% and sending all of my reactions to the author like she was my book bestie and doing a buddy read with me 😂
🖤Dark Gothic Romantasy
🗡️Enemies to Lovers & Friends to Lovers
🖤Forbidden Loves
🗡️Fated Mates
🖤Slow Burn & Earned Spice
🗡️Morally Gray Leads
🖤Trauma & Healing
Eris Dragov’s blood carries ancient power and the world demands a price be paid.
Daughter of a vampire king, Eris enters trances and hears voices no one else can – prophecy laid bare and whispers that could bring salvation or ruin.
Vampires and werewolf shifters, sworn enemies of empires on the verge of falling, and Eris is torn between them both – a devoted vampire heir and a rebel Lycan Alpha – a forbidden love that could tear the world apart…
I was transported into a different world and swept away by the power thrumming within Eris, the vampire heir, Stephan, and the Lycan Alpha, Kareon. These males couldn’t be more different, but what unites them is their willingness to burn the world down for the woman they are both destined to love. Whew! And the way these men love? SWOON! The slow burn tension, the yearning, the hard-earned spice, and learning that a heart can love differently…SO good! These rivals are brought together by forces beyond their control, and a desire to destroy the corruption in their midst, ready to create a world in which their Queen can live as she was always meant to be: freely uniting two peoples. The path is anything but easy, every step is hard-fought and not without casualties on both sides – political machinations and unfathomable power clashing while drawing blood. And when Eris comes into her own, reclaiming her legacy? Those she crowns in her fury are given purpose, and hope is a powerful thing in the face of fragile peace. Yet, claiming her legacy does not come without consequences and those had me SCREAMING and crying into a void. I uhhhhh just am now impatiently waiting for book two 😂
Review of advance copy
Thank you to the author for trusting me with a review copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review. All comments below are my own.
This was a wonderful debut novel and heart pounding introduction to a new series. The heavy gothic and paranormal vibes gave me chills repeatedly. And be warned (in the best way), this book does not shy away from the dark, the painful, the traumatic. With as few spoilers as possible: I was in tears regularly through the last 200 pages. The characters and their dynamics were also very engaging, and the conflicts between them had me on the edge of my seat. I definitely appreciated having insight into all characters’ perspectives, as it allowed me to connect with the large cast of players. Even if we weren’t able to spend a ton of time with every single one.
This book also did something I haven’t seen as much in the genre - it fully exists outside of time. Yes, there were women in corsets and knights in armor, but there were also holograms and modern (even futuristic) modes of transportation. This is not our world, and its not medieval times, so I loved seeing a depiction of a fantasy world where some beings are immortal and hold on to tradition, but development didn’t stop because of that.
The author utilized very descriptive prose, often lyrical in nature, to expand upon the concepts and moments on the page. This did at moments feel a bit on the heavy-side, but I may have just been more conscious of it due to not reading this style often.
My main concerns were with pacing, and the use of an omnipresent narration style. The pace often moved VERY quickly, particularly at the beginning while the world was still being established. So there were times when felt like I was playing catchup. And the omnipresent narration sometimes meant that I had to reread things to make sure I knew who was speaking/whose perspective we were in, as it would jump between characters rapidly. HOWEVER, I adjusted to both of these within a handful of chapters and was basically just locked in from there.
For all of these reasons I have rated this a STRONG 4-Stars and am anxiously awaiting the sequel
This was a wonderful debut novel and heart pounding introduction to a new series. The heavy gothic and paranormal vibes gave me chills repeatedly. And be warned (in the best way), this book does not shy away from the dark, the painful, the traumatic. With as few spoilers as possible: I was in tears regularly through the last 200 pages. The characters and their dynamics were also very engaging, and the conflicts between them had me on the edge of my seat. I definitely appreciated having insight into all characters’ perspectives, as it allowed me to connect with the large cast of players. Even if we weren’t able to spend a ton of time with every single one.
This book also did something I haven’t seen as much in the genre - it fully exists outside of time. Yes, there were women in corsets and knights in armor, but there were also holograms and modern (even futuristic) modes of transportation. This is not our world, and its not medieval times, so I loved seeing a depiction of a fantasy world where some beings are immortal and hold on to tradition, but development didn’t stop because of that.
The author utilized very descriptive prose, often lyrical in nature, to expand upon the concepts and moments on the page. This did at moments feel a bit on the heavy-side, but I may have just been more conscious of it due to not reading this style often.
My main concerns were with pacing, and the use of an omnipresent narration style. The pace often moved VERY quickly, particularly at the beginning while the world was still being established. So there were times when felt like I was playing catchup. And the omnipresent narration sometimes meant that I had to reread things to make sure I knew who was speaking/whose perspective we were in, as it would jump between characters rapidly. HOWEVER, I adjusted to both of these within a handful of chapters and was basically just locked in from there.
For all of these reasons I have rated this a STRONG 4-Stars and am anxiously awaiting the sequel
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