Crowned

Court of Isles #2

by Gina LaManna

As Alessia Wells dons her crown as the first Fae Queen in centuries…

She’s faced with what feels like insurmountable hurdles. When deadly attacks pop up across The Isle, it’s up to Alessia to put an end to the danger. But how can she stop the attacks when she can’t even control her own powers?

Alessia must begin her training as Fae Queen, but she’s up against a ticking clock. The Darkest Lord is threatening an attack that could annihilate everything Alessia’s come to hold dear, and if she can’t master her new powers before time runs out, it might be too late to save the island she’s come to love.

243 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 1, 2026

About the author

Originally from St. Paul, Minnesota, Gina LaManna has also called Italy and Los Angeles home. After studying numbers and equations in college, she realized multiple choice tests were “just not for her” and began writing books instead. She loves cappuccino foam and whipped cream and would subsist solely on sprinkles if possible. She currently lives in St. Paul with her wonderful husband and family.

Reviews

[Marsha · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book two in the series, and while, technically you can read it as a stand alone, I would suggest you start with book one (Cursed,) as this picks up where that left off, and there are events that take place in that book that are mentioned in this book, and you might be curious about them. It also involves some of the characters from the Magic & Mixology series (though again, you do not need to read to follow this book, but it will give you a better understanding/appreciation for the Isle and it's people.) There is an 'war' of sorts that is threatening the Isle and it carries over throughout the series. This doesn't end with a cliffhanger, per se, but you know there is more to come. All wonderfully written characters. This book reminds me a bit of the Empyrean series in how it's written. No dragons here though... yet anyways. lol Just how Alessia is new to the magical world and doing what she can to learn her powers and learn the land. She has some enemies already (even if she's done nothing to earn them,) faces death multiple times, happens to save the day (even if she doesn't quite know how it happened,) she doesn't give up (even if it feels hopeless) ect ect ect. One of the things I really like about this authors work, is that they are kinda considered cozy mysteries, but they have a more... sophisticated? vibe. (Not sure what word I'm looking for here.) They are almost in their own genre. Half way between cozy and thriller/suspense. There is some romance, but no sexual content on the page but it's insinuated a couple of times. The book is easy and quick to read. It's taken from Alessia's (the Protagonist) POV. There is some mild, magical violence.. no gunshots or anything like that. This is suitable for teens and up.

[Merry Chapman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in the Court of Isles series that like the first, hooks you from the beginning. Alessia Wells, had been kidnapped and taken to the magical isle, being the last Fae who is the only one who can break the curse. Alessia has to learn how to control her power and is destined to save the isle and people she has grown to love. With so many obstacles popping up on the isle, she has her work cut out for her. With twists and turns and a little blossoming romance, Alessia is bound and determined to save the isle. Can she break the curse? This is a page turner that grabs you from the beginning and never lets you go until the end. Not only do I highly recommend this book, but I also highly recommend the first book in the series as well and can't wait for more. I received an ARC of this book but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.

[Stephanie Corbett · Rating 4 out of 5]

This series (Court of Isles) is a spin-off from the Magic & Mixology series, which you don't need to have read first, but does have cross-over characters as they are both based on the mythical Isle. However, as this is book 2, I would highly recommend reading book 1 (Cursed) first, otherwise it will be a bit more challenging to understand how Alessia got to the Isle and why she was taken there!

As the last Fae, and the supposed Fae Queen of the Isle, Alessia has a heavy weight on her shoulders. She has broken the curse, but that is just the beginning of her challenges, not the end. She needs to learn how to access and control her magic, to help heal the Isle and safeguard the citizens from unknown attackers (potentially the Dark Lord!?) who seem to be determine and have an unknown nefarious agenda.

I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.

[Sherri · Rating 5 out of 5]

In book 2 of The Court of Isles series, Alessia is beginning her training as the Fae Queen. Being new to the island, well new to magic for that matter, she has her work cut out for her. If she is going to thwart the Darkest Lord in the attack he has planned, she will have to master her powers, as quickly as possible. Everything and everyone she loves is stake...

This series is a spin-off from the Magic & Mixology series. While you won't need to have read that one prior to reading this, I would advise reading book one of this series first ( Cursed), just so you understand everything that is going on. This is a quick read that is full of action, magic, and nervous tension. I am really looking forward to seeing where the story goes from here!

[Bookgyrl · Rating 5 out of 5]

** Review of advanced copy received from author**

I am a fan of Gina LaManna ever since her first book Sprinkled and this new addition does not disapppoint!

The book takes off immediately after the first book, Cursed. I reviewed that book in January 2025 so I went back and re-read parts of it to jog my memory and then off I was. I totally immersed myself in the story and read it in under 2 days. I can highly recommend these stories, especially if you loved and enjoyed the Magic & Mixology Series based on the same magic island!

I won't tell you much about the plot as it is - as always - quite intricate and you need to read it for yourself. Can't wait for the last book.

[Debi Paglia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! This book was amazing! From page 1, it held my complete attention! Ms. LaManna has again written a story that totally captured my imagination. Her writing is so descriptive that I felt like I was right there beside Alessia with every step she took to discover how to use and control her magic. (It was very difficult to have to put this book down and go to bed!) Please read Cursed (Court of Isles Book 1) before reading Crowned. You will need the background story to completely become immersed in the continuation of Alessia’s story in Book 2. I cannot wait for Book 3!

[M · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing! Return to the Isle and see Alessia come into her own by finding her true roots. She has many obstacles to get through in order to see what she truly is and we get to come along for the ride. A couple twists and turns to keep it interesting but I highly recommend this book and series to anyone looking for a book to curl up on the couch with on a relaxing day.

I received an ARC for an honest review.

[Karen Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

loved it

Great book 2. I re-read the first book which put me in the exact right mental space to really enjoy this book. Great kitchen scene with Millie teaching Alessia how to make sourdough bread and equating it to learning magic - great analogy. Alessia’s determination and fortitude to succeed is inspirational. Can’t wait for the third book.

[Melodie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Welcome back to the Isle. We again see Fae Queen Alessia, and this time we are privy to her training and to how she earns the residents' respect. You will enjoy seeing favorite characters from other Gina LaManna books set in this world. I finished it in one sitting because it was so engaging. I can't wait for the next one in the series.

[Frankie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in the Court of Isles by Gina LaManna. I have to say that I am a big fan of this author. I have read almost all of her books. I love her fantasy novels. Her descriptions of the characters and places she creates are very detailed and places you in the middle of the story. All of her books have a little danger and a bit of romance.

[Heike · Rating 5 out of 5]

And the storyline for the Isle continues

The isle is probably my most favourite spot in Gina LaManna's books. I was ecstatic when I saw there was a new storyline and it's totally worth the read. You'll meet new people and your favourite characters from the first series like Lily, Gus, Ranger X etc. I definitely recommend this series!

[Tonya Muller · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent story!

Book 2 Claimed was an exciting story. I loved how Aleesia slowly came into her powers. Also, the love story between Silas and Alessia was compelling. I can't wait for book 3.

[MaKai Magie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really am enjoying this series. I have to admit I have read all of Gina LaManna’s books and have seen a steady progression of her writing. They are fun reads and I enjoy the stories, but I love the characters, too.

[Heather Holman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can’t wait for the next one

Ms. LaManna does it again with the second installment of her Court of Isles series. Alessia comes into her own as the Fae Queen. I love the return of many favorite characters and can’t wait to see what happens next.

[Jessica R · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic read!

Gina MaManna does it again. Her writing is masterful and I can’t get enough! The storyline and characters are just amazing! I can’t wait to read the next one in the series!

[Elisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

what an exciting read.

Wow that was a lot, adventure, trials, learning lessons, leaning into love and so much more.
Alessia is so much more than anyone though she isn’t just the fae queen she is the triune queen with extra special powers and endless potential.

[Krystal Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

fabulous

Such a great read! I truly enjoyed returning to the Isle. The story picked right up from the 1st book. I recommend this series.

[Rebecca Ralston · Rating 5 out of 5]

it is another great story from the Isle

All of Gina’s books I have enjoyed and keep me engaged from beginning to end. Looking forward to the next!!

[Suzy Ostapower · Rating 5 out of 5]

Crowned is even better!!

I am really loving these books!! The story of the Triune Fae Queen is very magical. The bonus is you get a love story too.

[E · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW!

A truly fantastic story. Very hard to put down. The author had created a magical world for the reader to step into and not want to leave. I can’t wait to see what happens next.

[Kristie Austin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Great One

If you happened to read the Mixology series, this one is a spinoff from if and it’s just as good! Mixology is my favorite series and now I’m adding this to the list. Gina has a way of taking the reader into the story with her words. I always wish I could find The Isle and live on it with all its beauty. Her characters come alive with every story. I’m always saddened when I finish her books because I want them to continue indefinitely because they are so enjoyable. And, she will keep you guessing until the end. I cannot recommend this book enough and I’m anxiously waiting for the next installment. Thank you, Gina, for all your work!