The Silver Kingdom

by Radiya Hafiza

A swoony South Asian romantasy story of warring kingdoms, forbidden love and a long-lost magical saviour, perfect for fans of We Hunt the Flame , Empire of Sand  and Divine Rivals . 

Sparks fly when Prince Zayd, fresh from defending the borders of Dakaria meets Princess Layla of Sawan, determined to run away from her cruel, power-hungry mother.

When Layla discovers she has latent powers, ones she doesn't understand and begins to fear, and Zayd begins to negotiate with the mages, who have been in hiding for a hundred years, the young royals' paths become intertwined.

But the kingdoms are divided, still suffering from the fallout of colonial rule, and both the prince and the princess must marry to build alliances, not for love. As Layla and Zayd struggle between their hearts and their duties, a centuries-old prophecy is set into motion, calling upon a saviour to restore the mages to their true power.

Could Layla be the key to finally uniting their kingdoms, or will forbidden love plunge the lands into a devasting war?

From Radiya Hafiza, a sparkling new voice in YA, comes a story featuring
Slow burn forbidden romance First-person dual POVThe chosen one

Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Romantasy, Young Adult, Fantasy Romance

400 pages, Hardcover

Expected publication November 3, 2026

About the author

Radiya Hafiza is the acclaimed author of the Rumaysa duology and Aya and the Star Chaser. Her debut, Rumaysa, was the Waterstones Children's Book of the Month in April 2021 and has won critical acclaim across the UK and US. The Silver Kingdom is her debut YA fantasy, exploring empires, history and forbidden love.

Reviews

[Azrah · Rating 4 out of 5]

[This review can also be found on my BLOG]

**I received a proof copy from Simon & Schuster in exchange for an honest review**

CW: violence, injury, poisoning, torture, confinement, war, death, parent death, child abuse, emotional abuse, colourism, body shaming
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Give me all the desi fantasy man.

At its heart The Silver Kingdom is a YA fantasy romance between two royals each promised to other people as part of political marriage alliances who end up catching feelings for each other instead but gosh SO MUCH MORE happens and it absolutely swept me away!

Hafiza’s writing style did make the pacing rapid so the days were flying by within the story. Despite the MCs being on the upper end of YA age wise the writing style choice did cement the story as YA over new adult. I would have liked some moments to have slowed down and been given more time to breath, for key themes to have be explored a little deeper but the book was still such a page turner I was constantly eager to see what would go down next.

Now I didn’t warm to Zayd right away as he had a sort of self righteous air to him at first however, as the story progresses you see how much he cares for his family and kingdom and learn that his demeanour has much to do with his determination to always put them first. I loved his family and the chaotic relationship he had with his younger brother Yunus.

Layla on the other hand I loved almost instantly and I wanted to sweep the girl away from her horrible mother myself. Sultana Zahra did feel a bit like an evil caricature at times but Layla’s relationship with her and how it shaped her character was so well done.

I really loved watching Zayd and Layla cross paths following the misunderstanding of their first meet. Yes there was a bit of instant attraction, a lot of second guessing and overthinking and some of their initial conversations felt a little forced but as they continued to interact and clash due to their individual motives – Layla seeking a way to escape her mother, Zayd seeking a way to get in Sawan’s good books for the benefit of his kingdom – I was kicking my feet at how they were constantly catching each other off guard, bantering and then welcoming the idea of a mutual friendship which slowly started to build to more…

I loved all the desi culture that was woven in, though I would have liked the worldbuilding to have expanded beyond the different palaces, given more context to the kingdoms as well as touched on the details behind the magic a little bit more.

Nonetheless alongside the romance storyline I was absolutely hooked in by Zayd’s mission to track down the water mages, Layla’s personal growth and the prophecy that came about with regards to the coming of a saviour for the mages. The political tensions and inter-kingdom drama was also juicy and touched on themes of colonialism, family, identity and loyalty.

There were a lot of reveals and things that went down in the closing chapters, which was definitely a lot to take in such a short space of time so you don’t really get to sit with it all for long but it all had peak desi tele series drama vibes and I can’t wait to see what happens next!!
Final Rating – 3.75/5 Stars

[Carola · Rating 2 out of 5]

Thank you Simon and Schuster UK Children's and NetGalley for providing me an e-arc in exchange for an honest review. My review is my own and not influenced by others.
The description of this book sounds really good and I was happy to have the opportunity to read this book.

In this book we follow Prince Zayd who meets Princess Layla, who is determined to run away from her toxic mother. Layka and Zayd must make alliances to keep their kingdoms save, instead of following their hearts towards eachother.

I wanted to like this story but the writing style really icked me and I couldn’t get passed it. In this case, I think it is a ‘it’s me, not you’ kind of issue and I think there are many readers who will like this book, I’m just not one of them unfortunately.

[VickydpBooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lush, sweeping South Asian romantasy!

Rival royals Layla & Zayd fall hard, yet duty, old feuds, and a forgotten magic stand between them.

Prophecy, slow-burn romance, hidden powers, and rich worldbuilding.

Epic, swoony, and totally immersive

Perfect for fantasy & romance fans!

[patricia · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️

I was a bit conflicted with this one. While there were things I liked in the Silver Kingdom, I feel like I had as many issues with this one, and I’m not entirely sure if I will be continuing with the series.

When I heard that this book was going to feature mages, elemental magic and a forbidden romance, I had high hopes! It sounded so good on paper, but unfortunately I think the actual execution didn’t quite deliver. I wouldn’t say I was disappointed though and I think there is potential for a better sequel.

My favorite character easily was Yunus, Zayd’s brother. Yunus really carried this one for me!! He’s so sassy, flirty, funny and a bit of a shithead, but I absolutely LOVED him. What I love as well is that there was actually depth to Yunus besides being a comedic relief and I think he has so much potential. He’s given a surprising amount of depth and I liked how the book delves into birth order and how it shapes Yunus as a character. Yunus is second-born after Zayd, and I like how he doesn’t lean into that spoiled, entitled younger brother stereotype and subverts expectations. Yunus is genuinely frustrated since he wants to contribute and make a difference as Sultan and I love how he genuinely tries to help his brother in any way that he can. Best boy.

I also liked Zayd from the get go and the heavy responsibilities he has to bear as the next Sultan. I found him to be a really likable character and the brotherhood he has with Yunus was absolutely my favorite thing in the novel. The sharp banter between them was so hilarious. They both get on each other’s nerves, but deep down it’s clear they both care deeply for each other. Their brotherhood felt really organic and I bought into their relationship.

Unfortunately, what I didn’t love so much was the romance between Layla and Zayd. I thought the novel started strong, but when Layla and Zayd interacted for the first time, it felt like the tone shifted drastically into something more YA and juvenile — one that I probably would have found more entertaining if I was ten years younger. It’s a reverse grumpy sunshine trope, but the way Layla was infuriated with him most of the time just didn’t feel justified to me. It was really heavy on the insta love and lust trope as well and moved too fast for me personally. Usually I absolutely cannot stand insta lust, but I do like Layla and Zayd individually, so this one didn’t bother me as much as it could have fortunately. Their relationship did have a few cute moments though. Zayd is such a menace and the way he teases and gets on Layla’s nerves was endearing. I also loved the little letters between them.

Still, every time they interacted I just wanted to go back to the main political intrigue and conflict, which had a more serious tone. The way it explores death, grief and fatherhood did make me feel sad for Layla and Zayd, especially Layla’s deceased father who still carries such a strong presence throughout the novel. Even the racism in the book made me feel sorry for Layla. Both of them deserve so much better — I just wish their relationship showed them bonding over these issues more.

I always love books that explore elemental magic as well, though I wish it was shown more since I wasn’t fully enticed. Same with the political intrigue, which could have been stronger since I felt like I needed a stronger explanation for why the kingdoms were divided. I found Layla’s mom to be very despicable but in a generic sort of way. I wasn’t provoked enough to feel super angry, but she was terrible for sure, even if her motives felt quite predictable. This all still feels like a set up for something bigger, but I’m not sure if I am intrigued enough to continue.

Thank you as always to NetGalley for the e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Celeste · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you Netgalley and Simon & Schuster for accepting my request for the arc of this book!

The Silver Kingdom is a South-East Asian inspired fantasy novel with dual 1st person POVs. One is from Layla, a strong-willed but outwardly subdued Sawan Princess who desperately tries to escape the clutches of her cruel mother, even if it’s through her arranged marriage with their enemy kingdom. The second is Zayd, a charming and politically savvy Dakarian Prince who cares deeply for his people & family and who comes to see Layla’s plight when she visits his kingdom.

Where to start? I have conflicting feelings but overall I have to say it was a good read. The strongest aspect of the story was definitely its characters. I love how well Radiya Hafiza dealt with Layla’s turbulent relationship with her mother. Even in the smallest interactions, you can tell how much Sultana Zahra’s repeated verbal and emotional abuse shaped Layla. We see it in the way she dresses, acts, eats, and even thinks; stripping away every part of herself and of her heritage until all that was left was the emulation of the picture perfect princess that her mother wanted her to be. It just makes Layla’s sacrifice all the more impacful once she discovers the power she has just under the surface and the truth of her birth.

Our MMC Zayd, who in contrast has a very close-knit and loving family, feels the strong urge to protect her and help her in finding a new path. He, being the first in line for the throne, knows what is expected of him and takes his duties to his people seriously, considering them in every part of his plans. This also creates the foundation for a very well-written character arc when he discovers that he is soon to die. In a fight against time, he struggles between doing what his heart wants and what his position demands of him.
I also really enjoyed getting to know Zayd’s family, especially his wry and charming brother Yunus. He was definitely a scene stealer, being easy to confide in and emotionally layered.

Now, onto the stuff that I didn’t enjoy as much. I felt like there was a bit of colloquial and often simplistic terminology and narration in the book that felt too separate from the kind you’d expect in a historical fantasy world. The same can be said for the somewhat lacking world-building. I would’ve loved to see a bit more of the East Asian influence we were promised in the book’s blurb but, as it was, if not for mention of Layla wearing a dupatta and of our main characters eating naan, it felt like it could’ve been swapped out with many other cultural influences without effectively changing the storyline. Not to say that my examples were the only instances where you could find said East Asian influence, but it didn’t feel like enough to get me effectively immersed into the world.

That being said, I did enjoy the political intrigues and power struggles, especially towards the end of the book when many secrets came to light. I'm looking forward to the next books in the series to see where the story will take our MCs. Thank you again Netgalley for the arc! for the arc!

[Sifa Poulton · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC from the publisher in preparation for a UKYASpotlight interview. It has not affected my opinions.

THE SILVER KINGDOM is the start of a slow-burn series with forbidden love, magic, and waring countries.

Political fantasy is probably my favourite fantasy sub-genre (given that the thing I love about historical fantasy is when it interacts with real events in a political fantasy-esque way!) This is a book about political marriages and preparations for war, which puts it in that general ballpark (I'd argue, as the leads themselves aren't doing the scheming, it's not a political fantasy). I did, however, enjoy this background of parental scheming that the book was set against as Zayd searches for mages to save his father - and then himself - and Layla struggles with her mother being the worst. It gives the books more depth to be considering the various ways alliances were formed and leaders have long tried to shunt the blame for their warmongering onto others, making themselves look reasonable.

Layla's mother is awful. She's controlling and manipulative and constantly putting her daughter down. It's a very human sort of wrong that you are desperately hoping Layla can stand up against because we probably won't have to personally deal with people plotting world domination but this sort of belittling talk we all do. It makes her a more personal villain than simply a woman who will go to any lengths for power, even marry her daughter off to the grandson of the man who colonised her land (despite literally everyone else in the entire country hating the idea, including Layla.)

The romance between Layla and Zayd is a slow-burn, forbidden love one. They're both engaged to others and take a while to work out what they feel for each other. Slow-burn is my favourite speed of romance because it gives plenty of time for feelings to develop, forcing a relationship to form usually through a friendship. Layla and Zayd get off on the wrong foot, but it's not enemies-to-lovers because they have no real reason to hate each other, it's just a mistake that they get prickly over. And then they start to enjoy each other's company and it's deliciously full of chemistry.

Magic was almost eradicated by the colonisers, and some people (like Layla's mother) still persecute mages. Which means that when Layla starts showing signs, she has to hide it. There are comments made about a great mage and I suspect that's something that will come up more in the later books because there's an air of prophecy about it that don't play much into this book.

This is the first book and very much ends with the current world order being turned on its head. I am looking forward to the sequel to see what happens!

[Millicent Moon · Rating 3 out of 5]

3⭐

I have mixed feelings about this book. It follows Layla and Zayd, both heirs to rival kingdoms. Zayd has just returned after defending the borders of Dakaria, while Layla, princess of Suwen, is trying to escape her cruel and power-hungry mother. When Layla discovers she has latent powers she doesn’t understand and begins to fear, and Zayd starts negotiating with mages who have been in hiding for a hundred years, their paths become intertwined. With political tensions between the kingdoms and marriages expected to secure alliances rather than love, a centuries-old prophecy begins to unfold.

Zayd, the crown prince of Dakaria, was written really well. I liked how he balanced his royal responsibilities while also giving us a glimpse of the boy behind the crown. He was thoughtful, pragmatic, caring, and his chapters were some of the most interesting in the book.

My favorite character in this whole book was easily Zayd’s younger brother, Yunus. Being the second born, he’s often seen as a shadow under his older brother. But instead of acting like a typical spoiled young prince, he genuinely wants to help Zayd with his royal duties. He’s chivalrous, kind, funny and just an awesome side character.

Layla, the princess of Suwen, on the other hand… erm not so much, especially in the first half of the book. I found her quite insufferable at times, especially with how hostile she was toward Zayd. While some of it makes sense considering her situation, it still made parts of her storyline frustrating to read.

And I absolutely hated Layla’s dreadful mother. Argh that power-hungry leech. Every scene with her just made me dislike her even more.

The political intrigue and the setting were actually really well done, but there were some inconsistencies in the timeline. For example, it was three in the morning and Zayd was eating, and suddenly it’s randomly eight and he's just done eating. Like… hey, did you eat for five hours straight?? Moments like that were a bit confusing. I also wasn’t a huge fan of the insta-love, although I did find it quite bearable.

Overall, it was an enjoyable read. It definitely has a few flaws, but I see a lot of potential for the sequel.

Thank you to Simon & Schuster, NetGalley, and the author for the e-arc in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

[Naomi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you, Radiya Hafiza, Simon & Schuster Children's UK, and NetGalley, for this e-arc

The Silver Kingdom is a swoonworthy Asian romantasy with anticipated political intrigue. Filled with Eastern culture and elemental magic, this story immerses the reader in a mesmerizing world.

As heirs from different Kingdoms, Princess Layla from Sawan meets Prince Zayd while on a visit to Dakaria. She has always succumbed to her cruel, power-hungry mother, but she has a strong personality and cares a lot for her people, making her a respecting future-Sultana. Her sharp wit and dry sense of humour make her immediately lovable, noticed particularly by Prince Zayd. Throughout the story, she's on a journey discovering her past since some secrets unravelled.
Prince Zayd is a charmer and has the brains for politics. His heart lies with his family, his Kingdom, and later with Layla (while he's engaged to another for the sake of Dakaria). He shows both his Sultan-side and boyish side of playfulness. I love the moments when he interacts with his family, giving you a sense of affinity.

The side characters were diverse and unique. They supported the main characters and consequently the plot. I felt like their interactions with the main characters could've been more (detailed), but you still feel a human connection to them.

The most compelling parts of the book were the chemistry, the politics, and the cultures. Mixed together with elemental magic and an intriguing secret history, the book creates this magical story that keeps you reading.

[Aroosa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Simon & Schuster for sending me an early poof copy!

Where do I even begin with this one?! I adored every second of this absolute gem and I am utterly obsessed with it. It’s been a while since I read a South Asian romantasy and it honestly felt like home. I loved every aspect from the relationships, the angsty romance, the drama, and the frustrating plot lines. Everything was absolute perfection.

Zayd and Layla’s relationship from the start had me hooked. It was chaotic, cute, and frustratingly one hell of a slow burn but I was here for it. The ticking time bomb throughout the book had me at the edge. I honestly was feeling the anxiety go through me and it was so incredibly done. I sympathised so much with Layla and was ready to burn the world for her because she deserves everything and more. Zayd’s family is just the chef kiss of a family and if I was Layla I would have found a way to stay in that house as long as possible. The sibling banter between Zayd and Yunus had me cackling. The way everything was unfolding gave me whiplash, especially those last 20 pages, I had to walk around and take a breather. My train home was pretty much staring out the train because I just had read one of my favourite reads of this year that is tender, spellbinding, and leaving you yearning for more.

Overall this book left me with my jaw dropped and empty inside and screaming at the walls that I need book 2 like air and it is absolutely no joke.

[Ash_reads24 · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Silver Kingdom This book completely pulled me into its world with the atmosphere alone everything felt rich, dangerous, emotional, and beautifully written without ever feeling overwhelming. I loved how every chapter revealed something new about the kingdom, the politics, and the characters themselves.

One of my favourite things about the book was the South Asian inspired worldbuilding. It added so much depth and beauty to the story, and every detail felt vivid and intentional. The setting, traditions, and overall atmosphere made the world feel unique and immersive in a way that stayed with me long after finishing.

Layla was such an easy character to become attached to because her emotions felt so real throughout the story. Her struggles with duty, trust, and love made every decision feel important, especially with everything happening around her. And Zayd… every scene with him carried so much tension and emotion that I was fully invested from the beginning. The slow burn romance was done so well because it actually took time to build, which made every small moment between them feel even more intense.

There were betrayals, secrets, and twists that genuinely surprised me, but the emotional moments were still what stayed with me the most after finishing. The ending 👀

The writing style made the entire world feel vivid and immersive with beautiful prose. Honestly would HIGHLY recommend this book!

[Ellie · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Silver Kingdom by Radiya Hafiza

This book follows Layla, Princess of Sawan and Zayd, Prince of Dakaria, who are from rival kingdoms. They both are struggling with the weight of duty amongst the fact that their nations are under pressure from poverty and piracy, respectively. There’s also the harrowing prospect of the resurgence of colonialism looming in the background. Neither MCs expected the affinity that they felt towards each other.

I was hopeful for this story based upon the description:South-East Asian inspired YA fantasy, hidden elemental powers, rival kingdoms, and a slow-burn forbidden attraction. However, the execution of it lacked a bit, but perhaps that was deliberately so because it was intended to be the first book of a series.

There was not much learned about the powers and more emphasis could have been put on the overall worldbuilding. I liked the fact that there was dual POV so we could see things from both Layla and Zayd’s perspective. However, I struggled at times with differentiation between the voices of both characters. There was tension from the onset that bled into the romance, but I wouldn’t consider it a slow-burn by any means. I would have liked to see deeper development in terms of their relationship building.
The politics was the most interesting part of the story, and based off of the book ending, I am hopeful about the continuation of the series.

[Aliza · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thanks to NetGalley and Simon and Schuster UK for the ARC.

The Silver Kingdom by Radiya Hafiza is a South Asian-inspired romantasy focusing on two heirs from different kingdoms, Prince Zayd of Dakaria and Princess Layla of Sawan, with themes of political conflict and colonialism. Dakaria is struggling to fight against forces who are desperate for their silver. Sawan has a power-hungry Sultana who is willing to do anything to keep her power, no matter the resistance. Both Layla and Zayd, forced into political arranged marriages, try to uphold their duties and do what they believe is right for their kingdoms.

The worldbuilding in this novel is very intriguing, the political aspects are quite complex, and I like how the mages and magic system work perfectly with the other aspects of the novel. The colonial kingdom is written very well, they portray the perspective of the colonial royalty in a way that felt realistic and made them still feel like a threat to the lands they had occupied. I liked the main protagonists as well, Layla and Zayd felt genuine in the way they are portrayed, and I also liked quite a lot of the side characters as well, especially Yunus and Dakaria's Sultana.

I did have some issues with the novel though. I felt like the writing style was quite inconsistent, and events that I expected to be longer felt quite rushed and other scenes felt dragged. The timeline at times was confusing as well. I did not care much for Zayd and Layla's romance, though I liked them as individual characters, as it felt quite forced and did not have much chemistry.

The Silver Kingdom is a politically rich fantasy with ostracised mages and a colonial past, and the ending suggests an interesting and exciting sequel.

[Keighley · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the biggest highlights for me was Layla. She’s such a brilliant FMC: feisty, independent, and completely determined not to accept the life her mother has planned for her. Their relationship could be difficult to read at times, especially with some of the sensitive themes explored throughout the story. There were moments and attitudes that reflect beliefs still deeply rooted within parts of Asian culture today, but I thought they were handled thoughtfully and realistically by the author.

I also really enjoyed the pacing. The world-building never felt overwhelming and, while the story still had plenty of detail, it was delivered in a way that kept me completely invested without ever slowing the plot down.

The friendships were another standout for me -especially Layla and Yunus. Their budding friendship was one of my favourite parts of the book, and I already have a feeling Yunus is going to become one of Layla’s strongest allies in book two.

And that ending?! The epilogue set things up perfectly for the next instalment and left me genuinely excited to see where the story goes next.

A real standout read for me this year – easy to get lost in, emotionally engaging, and full of tension and heart. Also: zero spice, which was a huge plus for me!I’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for book two and any future work from the author.

[Bella and the Bookstack · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

Thank you so much to the publisher for sending me an arc copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Add this to your tbr!! If you’re looking for a forbidden romance set within a world with elemental magic, this one is for you!!

I was drawn into the world immediately. The author kept a quick pace throughout the book which made this book even more enjoyable. Everything from the characters to the storyline was so beautifully written.

I felt like the author spent a lot of time developing both the characters and the world. Layla and Zayd were immediate favorites of mine!! I loved watching them fall for each other even if they didn’t communicate it out loud.

I was so excited that there was elemental magic in this book. It wasn’t the most prominent aspect of the book, but it still played a huge role. I think the magical elements will only grow as the series continues.

I will say that there are some possible content warnings that readers might want to take a look at before reading. A few mentioned here: violence, war, persecution of a group of people, colorism, and body shaming. This is a young adult novel, but it still has some darker themes and elements.

Overall a really great read! I can’t wait for the next book!

[Jazzy Manning · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am incredibly grateful to Simon and Schuster UK Children's for the opportunity to read and review The Silver Kingdom. Being selected to explore this captivating story before its official release has been such a treat, and I can’t wait to share my thoughts on it with all of you. A huge thank you to the team at Simon and Schuster UK Children's for their generosity and for making this advanced reading experience possible.

Woah, woah, woah! I need more immediately!

This was a great book. So atmospheric and taking aspects from different South Asian cultures. Simply beautiful.

I got through this really quickly because it was so unputdownable. It was borderline entrancing to the point where I could not stop consuming Radiya Hafiza's words on each and every page.

So much romance, betrayal with a sprinkle of twists throughout. There simply must be a sequel and I will be reading it as soon as it's available.

Huge shoutout to Zayd's mother, the Sultana. What a magnificent and graceful woman. She may not be one of the main characters but she will stay with me for a long time to come. It's impossible to not love and respect her.

I loved this book so much!

[Omiai · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a reasonably good YA romance/fantasy. I don't feel that it was anything particularly special about it though.
I found there was far too much talk of politics and the various places that had been at war in the past, that may end up at war in the near future, if so-and-so didn't mart so-and-so, there would be a war... It became a bit tedious.
The main characters were pretty dull for most of the book. Layla, the book and storyline became much more interesting when it started to be clear she has mage powers (much hated, sometimes, throughout the various regions), but despite this, very little was done with her powers. However, it seems this is at least a duology, as it ends with a bit of a cliffhanger. I was disappointed because about 3/4 of the way through I thought 'oh great, this is a one off, and it'll wrap up by the end' but a bunch of stuff was shoved into the story in this last 1/4 and so now there will be a book 2.
Honestly, I don't know that I would read it. As I said, this book was ok. Nothing special. And my boredom with the characters makes me feel like I likely won't bother with the 2nd book.

[Beth Knight · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love the premise of this book, the tension between Zayd and Layla is fantastic, but I wanted to scream at the language.

Look if your fantasy has pirates in sailing ships and swords are still your primary weapon you don't have "fans" that aren't a fashion item or waved by servants and the word is CROWNED. Coronated is a misapplied adjective that made me mad in the American coverage of Charles III's coronation and made me near apoplectic every five pages in this book.

Is this a weird hill to die on? Maybe but I'm an English teacher and have a degree in English Language.

Other than that it's really good especially once it picks up pace. You'll want to violently maim Zahra, wrap Zayd's entire family up in cotton wool, except Yunus who needs a slap upside the head for being an idiot. Layla is brilliant and I really hope in book 2 we see her develop the confidence she needs.

In the meantime I'ma hunt down Radiya's editor because they really should have called the language stuff out xD

[Ilaria 🌸 (exlibris.ilaria) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thanks to NetGalley and Simon and Schuster for providing an arc.
Well, this book is exactly what it promised: a lush, beautiful, south asian inspired romance woven with fantasy elements and epic storylines.
We follow Zayd and Layla, heirs to their respective thrones, who start a tumultuous friendship that turns into something deeper and almost tragic.
The fantasy elements are based on elemental magic, which is always a big yes for me, and the descriptions of the places and characters with their different outfits were so captivating.
I didn’t really like the fmc unfortunately, I prefer stronger and more reactive ones, but by the end we can see the start of something new, so I can’t wait to see what she does in the following books.
The ending really kept me on edge, I’m really looking forward to seeing what comes next.
It’s a 3.5 stars read for me, because it did take me a little to get along with Layla, but by the end I was hooked and wanted to read more.
Perfect if you’re looking for an almost forbidden love story, banter and folkloric elements that blend with fantasy ones.

[T. Wu · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Silver Kingdom was such a sweeping romantic read full of political intrigue and forbidden romance. I adored both Layla and Zayd, Layla had such a strong "don't mess with me" type of personality and a sarcastic sense of humour, and Zayd on the other hand was devastatingly handsome yet such a character. I honestly loved how they were constantly teasing and abusing each other when they were clearly head over heels for one another.

The story was fast paced and I loved the South Asian Fantasy setting as well as the magic system and the mages. Absolutely hated Layla's mother and how evil she was. But I felt like the book ended so abruptly, it wasn't what I expected at all. I was confused if this was a standalone or the first in a series as when the story finished I was left feeling like, surely it can't have just ended? I was left wanting more!!

A stunning read though, I really enjoyed it!

[Jasi (shelvedbyjasi) · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Growing older had made me angrier, frustrated, aware of how little control I had over my own life.”

👏🏼 THIS WAS EXCEPTIONAL!!!

This story was truly one of a kind. The plot is super interesting and a super fun one — rival princess meets rival prince, both are betrothed to others, but as secrets unfold, so do unexpected feelings.

Secrets, betrayal, the most atmospheric setting, and romance that was so sweet— this has it ALL.

Zayd and Layla could not be more perfect, literally both of them are perfect. Good and righteous and brave and kind. The banter was also top tier.

The pacing was so nice, I found myself lost in the story easily. The world building is beautiful, based on Southern Asia the descriptions of the lands and the ceremonies was gorgeous. I had such a fun time and I can’t wait to see where the story goes next!

[Thisbookremindedmeof · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this. I think it’s a great entry into fantasy the magic is elemental magic so simple enough to comprehend. The cultural references and historical parallels are woven in so smoothly that it’s easy enough to immerse yourself into this world. The love story is so sweet and very Romeo and Juliette esq. The MMC and FMC are both admirable characters wise beyond their years due to the weight and responsibility of leadership. If you’re looking for a YA romance that has the potential to be an epic romance this is definitely for you. It gives the vibe of scenes from Once Upon a Time with Captain Hook and Romeo and Juliette and there’s a scene that reminded me of Aladdin when he first meets Jasmin in the market.

[Ramishah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Layla and Zayd my YEARNERS YES INDEED!!!

A romantic fantasy story between two heirs ascending to their own thrones while being betrothed to OTHERS????

I love a good political fantasy especially one that’s South Asian and highlights the damage and suffering colonialism has ensued.

There were also so many cozy cultural details that made my heart glow!! The descriptions of clothes and delicious foods being represented always makes me smile so much!!





Thank you @simonteen for the early e- arc!!! I enjoyed this story so much!!

[Marta Cox · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lots of political machinations here with a complicated romance at the heart of it . Layla is someone I just want to hug and sweep her away from her truly awful mother ! That woman is power hungry and has a plan to marry Layla off to someone who most consider to be an enemy . Now Zayd is also heir to his country’s throne but he has a loving family although sadly his father is very ill . The two meet and it’s funny reading their interactions as yes they are attracted to each other but both have to make political marriages . They begin a friendship of sorts with letters passing back and forth which just makes you read between the lines and smile but with different spouses on the horizon and Layla struggling to hide her emerging abilities can love find a way ?
I found this very easy to read and was swept away into this eastern setting . I adored the brothers relationship and he can knit for me anytime ! This ended in such a way that it’s very hard to predict what will happen next but whatever it is I’m definitely looking forward to it. My thanks to NetGalley for my copy

[Habiba Aktar · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was everything I wanted to read whilst growing up. It had representation of South Asian culture in the most natural way, and honestly had me completely lost in the world Radiya Hafiza so masterfully created. Genuinely felt disappointed reading the last line, and am EAGERLY awaiting the next book (if she could release it tomorrow, that would be great)
Such a great read, can’t wait to see what she creates next

[Lisa Douma · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s a very good book. 5/5 read. Absolutely lovely lovely story. Can’t wait for the second book to find out where the story goes.

India, Pakistani and the English colonisers are very nicely woven into this story/used as inspiration.

[Angela Green · Rating 2 out of 5]

I struggled to read it but parts of the story were good I liked one of the characters he kept me reading it I will read the next one to find out what's happened

[Spiri Skye · Rating 4 out of 5]

This rlly was almost five stars but the last 5% pissed me off bad girl get your ass back here

[Asal-Honey Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

My favourite fantasy book!

[Nadine · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful and complex fantasy story that halfway through I couldn’t put down! I loved the way magic, romance, politics and family drama were brought together and can’t wait for the sequel!