What do you think?
Rate this book
A Kingdom of Magic and Rain: A Cozy Fantasy Romance Standalone
A broken kingdom. A broken princess. A love that can heal them both.
As the magical wards protecting her kingdom fade away, a powerless princess must train with a mysterious lord, only to learn that falling in love may be the most dangerous magic of all.
Princess Emelin Clairborne is witnessing her human kingdom of Emeraldia fade before her eyes. The wards that keep their Fae enemies out are weakening, and the farmland is withering away. With her magic stubbornly dormant, Emelin is powerless to help.
Desperate, she seeks out Adrian Gray, a mysterious lord living near the border between human and Fae. Powerful and guarded, he reluctantly agrees to train her. Her journey to harnessing her powers is long and challenging, but amid her struggles, a romance blossoms between her and the lord. As her feelings for him grow, so does her magic.
Before their budding relationship can flourish, long-buried secrets shatter the very foundation of Emelin's world. With Emeraldia on the brink of collapse, she has no choice but to wed a Fae prince to forge an alliance with their most feared enemy. Through the marriage of convenience, Emelin may secure peace and power for her people, but the cost will be her future…and her heart.
With royalcore vibes, Regency-inspired romance, and whimsical fantasy elements, this low stakes New Adult Romantasy is perfect for fans of Once Upon a Broken Heart, Serpent & Dove, and The Cruel Prince.
A Kingdom of Magic and Rain is book one in the Three Kingdoms series of interconnected standalone novels.
As the magical wards protecting her kingdom fade away, a powerless princess must train with a mysterious lord, only to learn that falling in love may be the most dangerous magic of all.
Princess Emelin Clairborne is witnessing her human kingdom of Emeraldia fade before her eyes. The wards that keep their Fae enemies out are weakening, and the farmland is withering away. With her magic stubbornly dormant, Emelin is powerless to help.
Desperate, she seeks out Adrian Gray, a mysterious lord living near the border between human and Fae. Powerful and guarded, he reluctantly agrees to train her. Her journey to harnessing her powers is long and challenging, but amid her struggles, a romance blossoms between her and the lord. As her feelings for him grow, so does her magic.
Before their budding relationship can flourish, long-buried secrets shatter the very foundation of Emelin's world. With Emeraldia on the brink of collapse, she has no choice but to wed a Fae prince to forge an alliance with their most feared enemy. Through the marriage of convenience, Emelin may secure peace and power for her people, but the cost will be her future…and her heart.
With royalcore vibes, Regency-inspired romance, and whimsical fantasy elements, this low stakes New Adult Romantasy is perfect for fans of Once Upon a Broken Heart, Serpent & Dove, and The Cruel Prince.
A Kingdom of Magic and Rain is book one in the Three Kingdoms series of interconnected standalone novels.
418 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 24, 2026
About the author
V.I. Davis
5 books88 followersV.I. writes romance with a touch of fantasy and magic. Her stories bring back yearning, one green flag MMC at a time. If you’re in your fae era, check out her standalone cozy romantasy, A Kingdom of Magic and Rain. If you’re in your vampire era, read her completed Crimson and Shadows trilogy, starting with Josephine’s Tear.
When she's not weaving tales filled with truly devoted heroes, you'll find her curled up on the sofa, lost in a book, with a blanket and delicious treats by her side. If you want to follow along on her author journey, you can sign up for her newsletter (www.vidavisauthor.com) or find her on Instagram (@vidavis.author).
When she's not weaving tales filled with truly devoted heroes, you'll find her curled up on the sofa, lost in a book, with a blanket and delicious treats by her side. If you want to follow along on her author journey, you can sign up for her newsletter (www.vidavisauthor.com) or find her on Instagram (@vidavis.author).
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 307 reviews
August 28, 2026
This reads very YA to me. You know those classes where the teacher asks you to form a group and put on a play in front of the class, and everyone is so stiff and awkward? That’s exactly what this feels like 😭
Did Not Finish
August 19, 2026First....the cover is absolutely breathtaking! It's really what drew me to this book. Also, I thought the premise was a good one and that I would enjoy it. Unfortunately, this one wasn't for me. I struggled hard to get into it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Yeah, so I absolutely had zero clue where this book was going. I was expecting cozy slow burn yearning, and I got emotional damage. 10/10 would do it all over again.
Both Emelin and Adrian are such a breath of fresh air. Emelin is soft and bookish and would do absolutely anything for her kingdom and family. I love that she’s not a stabby FMC and she’s a lot more relatable and genuine in my opinion. Adrian is also an absolute green flag. He listens to her and he’s incredibly supportive (also v hot). I love the whole he trains her dynamic. They both love reading and art and I loved watching their bond develop. They are absolutely perfect for each other. I also love that Emelin comes into her own power without sacrificing who she is at her core. I like that they both experienced similar heartbreak in their pasts and weren’t afraid to be vulnerable with each other. I think that really solidified their bond.
I think the book was paced really well. It wasn’t overly fast-paced, but I was fully immersed the entire time. There were definitely a couple of twists that surprised me (iykyk).
I was so eager to read this because of all the pretty art and it was even better than I expected. I’d definitely recommend this to anyone who’s tired of the same morally grey MMCs and just wants a cozy romantasy with two green flags all up in their feels.
Both Emelin and Adrian are such a breath of fresh air. Emelin is soft and bookish and would do absolutely anything for her kingdom and family. I love that she’s not a stabby FMC and she’s a lot more relatable and genuine in my opinion. Adrian is also an absolute green flag. He listens to her and he’s incredibly supportive (also v hot). I love the whole he trains her dynamic. They both love reading and art and I loved watching their bond develop. They are absolutely perfect for each other. I also love that Emelin comes into her own power without sacrificing who she is at her core. I like that they both experienced similar heartbreak in their pasts and weren’t afraid to be vulnerable with each other. I think that really solidified their bond.
I think the book was paced really well. It wasn’t overly fast-paced, but I was fully immersed the entire time. There were definitely a couple of twists that surprised me (iykyk).
I was so eager to read this because of all the pretty art and it was even better than I expected. I’d definitely recommend this to anyone who’s tired of the same morally grey MMCs and just wants a cozy romantasy with two green flags all up in their feels.
August 8, 2026
° ˖✧ 𝓣𝓛;𝓓𝓡 ✧˖°
A deceptively twisty fantasy romance perfect for readers looking for a fast-paced storyline set in a rich world of elemental magic and fae, and a relationship rollercoaster with flirty banter and angsty secrets.
° ˖✧ 𝓡𝓪𝓽𝓲𝓷𝓰𝓼 ✧˖°
3 ⭐
2 🌶️
° ˖✧ 𝓠𝓾𝓸𝓽𝓮𝓼 ✧˖°
"A light doesn't have to burn brightly to radiate warmth. As beauty doesn't have to be loud to be exquisite."
"To me, you are the brightest star, more luminous than the entire stellar sea above us."
"You don't know what that look does to me. It has the power to bring me to my knees and make me grovel at your feet, for a mere brush of your lips against mine."
"I'm not worthy of you."
"Yes, you are. You're the only one who is."
° ˖✧ 𝓢𝔂𝓷𝓸𝓹𝓼𝓲𝓼 𝓢𝓾𝓶𝓶𝓪𝓻𝔂 ✧˖°
As the magical wards protecting her kingdom from fae enemies fade away, powerless princess Emelin must train with mysterious lord Adrian, only to learn that falling in love may be the most dangerous magic of all.
° ˖✧ 𝓣𝓻𝓸𝓹𝓮𝓼 ✧˖°
💘 Mentor x Mentee
🔐 Secrets & Betrayal
🪪 Hidden Identities
👑 Court Intrigue
💍 Marriage of Convenience
✨ Elemental Magic
💪 Training Arc (ish)
💕 Fated Mates (ish)
° ˖✧ 𝓣𝓻𝓲𝓰𝓰𝓮𝓻 𝓦𝓪𝓻𝓷𝓲𝓷𝓰𝓼 ✧˖°
💔 Past and Current (almost) Infidelity
🩸 Mild Violence
🌶️ Sexually Explicit Content
🥊 Abusive Family (not MC)
💀 Death and Near-Death Experiences
° ˖✧ 𝓛𝓲𝓴𝓮𝓼 ✧˖°
+ Mystery of the Fading Wards
+ Flirtation and Banter
+ Attention-Grabbing Twists
+ Bright Magic and Setting
° ˖✧ 𝓓𝓲𝓼𝓵𝓲𝓴𝓮𝓼 ✧˖°
- Juvenile Writing Style
- Unnecessary Prologue
- Info-Dump Worldbuilding
- MMC is Inconsistent (grumpy, insta love, weak)
- Whiplash On-Off Relationship
- Time Jumps removed Emotional Engagement
- Pacing is Too Fast
- Repetitive Interiority
- Extremely Immature FMC
- All Characters lack depth
° ˖✧ 𝓜𝔂 𝓣𝓱𝓸𝓾𝓰𝓱𝓽𝓼 ✧˖°
I really wanted to love this one, but unfortunately A Kingdom of Magic and Rain is not for me...
Immediately the writing style felt a bit juvenile, almost like the author was listing things happening one after the other. There's also a lot of over-explaining, and I didn't connect with the voice of the main character at all.
Not to mention, the prologue felt a bit unnecessary. It refers to a scene that occurs approximately 2/3 into the story, but I found myself intrigued enough from the events in chapter 1 that I don't think the story needed it.
The mystery of why the wards at the border were fading was interesting, and I had a few different theories as to why the further the story progressed. It was perhaps a little predictable for me, but not unsatisfyingly so.
I felt a bit disappointed in the MMC Adrian though. I thought he would be more golden-retriever but instead he was just quite grumpy until suddenly, he wasn't. However, some of my favourite scenes were Adrian and Emelin beginning to flirt with one another, and I wish we'd had longer to really set the foundation of their relationship.
Though things go a bit downhill for me after they share their first kiss. Adrian and Emelin start to go hot and cold with each other, almost giving me whiplash from how quickly they'd bounce back and forth. It felt quite immature, especially because Emelin would almost look for an excuse to "get revenge". They never stood a chance at being able to communicate properly.
Then we start getting a lot more time jumps. Despite the characters taking some time away from each other, we skip it so that we resume the story when they meet again. This takes most of the emotion out of the story and makes their reactions to each other feel too heavy-handed as a result.
Once we reach the 50% mark, the plot and pacing really begin to take off. A lot of twisty events happen, which while interesting, progress way too quickly for us to fully immerse ourselves in them. Alternatively, we sometimes spend so long in Emelin's head that we repeatedly circle the same points of drama.
This is also the stage where Emelin begins to get a lot more immature. She makes some very emotional decisions, that personally made me quite uncomfortable. And while Adrian is marketed as a green flag, he ends up being little more than a doormat. He grovels for Emelin, and she waits an arbitrary amount before giving him the time of day.
The side characters are also a bit meh the whole way through the book. No one is ever given enough depth to really make them meaningful or for the reader to have any attachment to them. Then we get some moments of closeness with side characters at the end that just fall a bit flat because there doesn't seem to be any rhyme or reason to their developed relationship.
The world and magic is bright and fun, even when everything goes downhill. However, there is a lot of info-dumping explaining all this extravagant history to the land. Also, a lot of information is shared via dialogue which often felt too easy and inauthentic.
Thank you to V.I. Davis and Iris Influencer Society for the opportunity to receive an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
A deceptively twisty fantasy romance perfect for readers looking for a fast-paced storyline set in a rich world of elemental magic and fae, and a relationship rollercoaster with flirty banter and angsty secrets.
° ˖✧ 𝓡𝓪𝓽𝓲𝓷𝓰𝓼 ✧˖°
3 ⭐
2 🌶️
° ˖✧ 𝓠𝓾𝓸𝓽𝓮𝓼 ✧˖°
"A light doesn't have to burn brightly to radiate warmth. As beauty doesn't have to be loud to be exquisite."
"To me, you are the brightest star, more luminous than the entire stellar sea above us."
"You don't know what that look does to me. It has the power to bring me to my knees and make me grovel at your feet, for a mere brush of your lips against mine."
"I'm not worthy of you."
"Yes, you are. You're the only one who is."
° ˖✧ 𝓢𝔂𝓷𝓸𝓹𝓼𝓲𝓼 𝓢𝓾𝓶𝓶𝓪𝓻𝔂 ✧˖°
As the magical wards protecting her kingdom from fae enemies fade away, powerless princess Emelin must train with mysterious lord Adrian, only to learn that falling in love may be the most dangerous magic of all.
° ˖✧ 𝓣𝓻𝓸𝓹𝓮𝓼 ✧˖°
💘 Mentor x Mentee
🔐 Secrets & Betrayal
🪪 Hidden Identities
👑 Court Intrigue
💍 Marriage of Convenience
✨ Elemental Magic
💪 Training Arc (ish)
💕 Fated Mates (ish)
° ˖✧ 𝓣𝓻𝓲𝓰𝓰𝓮𝓻 𝓦𝓪𝓻𝓷𝓲𝓷𝓰𝓼 ✧˖°
💔 Past and Current (almost) Infidelity
🩸 Mild Violence
🌶️ Sexually Explicit Content
🥊 Abusive Family (not MC)
💀 Death and Near-Death Experiences
° ˖✧ 𝓛𝓲𝓴𝓮𝓼 ✧˖°
+ Mystery of the Fading Wards
+ Flirtation and Banter
+ Attention-Grabbing Twists
+ Bright Magic and Setting
° ˖✧ 𝓓𝓲𝓼𝓵𝓲𝓴𝓮𝓼 ✧˖°
- Juvenile Writing Style
- Unnecessary Prologue
- Info-Dump Worldbuilding
- MMC is Inconsistent (grumpy, insta love, weak)
- Whiplash On-Off Relationship
- Time Jumps removed Emotional Engagement
- Pacing is Too Fast
- Repetitive Interiority
- Extremely Immature FMC
- All Characters lack depth
° ˖✧ 𝓜𝔂 𝓣𝓱𝓸𝓾𝓰𝓱𝓽𝓼 ✧˖°
I really wanted to love this one, but unfortunately A Kingdom of Magic and Rain is not for me...
Immediately the writing style felt a bit juvenile, almost like the author was listing things happening one after the other. There's also a lot of over-explaining, and I didn't connect with the voice of the main character at all.
Not to mention, the prologue felt a bit unnecessary. It refers to a scene that occurs approximately 2/3 into the story, but I found myself intrigued enough from the events in chapter 1 that I don't think the story needed it.
The mystery of why the wards at the border were fading was interesting, and I had a few different theories as to why the further the story progressed. It was perhaps a little predictable for me, but not unsatisfyingly so.
I felt a bit disappointed in the MMC Adrian though. I thought he would be more golden-retriever but instead he was just quite grumpy until suddenly, he wasn't. However, some of my favourite scenes were Adrian and Emelin beginning to flirt with one another, and I wish we'd had longer to really set the foundation of their relationship.
Though things go a bit downhill for me after they share their first kiss. Adrian and Emelin start to go hot and cold with each other, almost giving me whiplash from how quickly they'd bounce back and forth. It felt quite immature, especially because Emelin would almost look for an excuse to "get revenge". They never stood a chance at being able to communicate properly.
Then we start getting a lot more time jumps. Despite the characters taking some time away from each other, we skip it so that we resume the story when they meet again. This takes most of the emotion out of the story and makes their reactions to each other feel too heavy-handed as a result.
Once we reach the 50% mark, the plot and pacing really begin to take off. A lot of twisty events happen, which while interesting, progress way too quickly for us to fully immerse ourselves in them. Alternatively, we sometimes spend so long in Emelin's head that we repeatedly circle the same points of drama.
This is also the stage where Emelin begins to get a lot more immature. She makes some very emotional decisions, that personally made me quite uncomfortable. And while Adrian is marketed as a green flag, he ends up being little more than a doormat. He grovels for Emelin, and she waits an arbitrary amount before giving him the time of day.
The side characters are also a bit meh the whole way through the book. No one is ever given enough depth to really make them meaningful or for the reader to have any attachment to them. Then we get some moments of closeness with side characters at the end that just fall a bit flat because there doesn't seem to be any rhyme or reason to their developed relationship.
The world and magic is bright and fun, even when everything goes downhill. However, there is a lot of info-dumping explaining all this extravagant history to the land. Also, a lot of information is shared via dialogue which often felt too easy and inauthentic.
Thank you to V.I. Davis and Iris Influencer Society for the opportunity to receive an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
August 24, 2026
LOVED.
As soon as I read the blurb, I was convinced I would love this story. And I was not disappointed!
Whilst the book title felt like any other romantasy (authors, please stop with this generic title format!), the novel feels like anything but formulaic.
The magic system was interesting but easy to follow, the plot stayed fast throughout and the characters and the banter between them all felt genuine and realistic!
This was a brilliant read, and I can't wait for more!
As soon as I read the blurb, I was convinced I would love this story. And I was not disappointed!
Whilst the book title felt like any other romantasy (authors, please stop with this generic title format!), the novel feels like anything but formulaic.
The magic system was interesting but easy to follow, the plot stayed fast throughout and the characters and the banter between them all felt genuine and realistic!
This was a brilliant read, and I can't wait for more!
August 27, 2026
This is another one of those books where it blows your expectations out of the water.
First, it's refreshing to read a book where the characters respond properly to betrayal. People don't just get over it and I'm glad the characters in this book had valid reactions to the things going on around them.
Second, this story had two climactic events that WORKED! One of them was toward the middle of the book, and the other was obviously at the end. Both caused major turning points that were unpredictable. This was surprising because of how slow the first few chapters were. It had great build-ups to both major events. So, just a heads up, it starts as a cozy read but gets chaotic after the first climatic situation occurs.
The characters were well written. Outside of realistic reactions, the characters grew on me as I read. People who I thought would end up being villains surprised me when they weren't (at least not in book one), and people I thought were going to be good ended up getting manipulated too easily and doing all the wrong things, indirectly making them villains. This happens multiple times too.
Small amount of triggers including alcohol usage, magical death, & talks of war and unrest. There are some spicy parts but they are mild.
I received an ARC of this book and I am leaving my review voluntarily.
First, it's refreshing to read a book where the characters respond properly to betrayal. People don't just get over it and I'm glad the characters in this book had valid reactions to the things going on around them.
Second, this story had two climactic events that WORKED! One of them was toward the middle of the book, and the other was obviously at the end. Both caused major turning points that were unpredictable. This was surprising because of how slow the first few chapters were. It had great build-ups to both major events. So, just a heads up, it starts as a cozy read but gets chaotic after the first climatic situation occurs.
The characters were well written. Outside of realistic reactions, the characters grew on me as I read. People who I thought would end up being villains surprised me when they weren't (at least not in book one), and people I thought were going to be good ended up getting manipulated too easily and doing all the wrong things, indirectly making them villains. This happens multiple times too.
Small amount of triggers including alcohol usage, magical death, & talks of war and unrest. There are some spicy parts but they are mild.
I received an ARC of this book and I am leaving my review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What happens when you take a bookish Princess with dormant magic, a powerful, yet broody lord, and a broken kingdom with failing wards? A cozy, emotionally charged, and magical story that goes right for your heart. 💕 A Kingdom of Magic and Rain delivered the perfect balance of romance, yearning, and a sprinkle of action that hooked me while still maintaining the cozy elements of the story.
I found Emelin, our FMC, to be so beautifully vulnerable, and relatable. There were so many points throughout the story where I felt for her and found myself connecting to aspects of her character I don’t usually get to see in fantasy books. There is a quiet strength to her and it was such a fantastic reminder that strength is not always physical.
Adrian, our Mr. Darcy coded MMC, is powerful, but expressive even in moments of stoicism. He is a green flag, swoon-worthy MMC and is tasked with helping Emelin unlock her magic so that she can restore balance to the kingdom of Emeraldia.
Both characters are overcoming pasts that haunt them and find comfort in their growing friendship as they train together, but are not fully prepared to let their guards down. There are LAYERS to the yearning here, and there was a rollercoaster of emotions I experienced as I delved deeper into their story.
The side characters had such excellent development throughout the book and I found myself wanting to know more about each one. (I have some theories about one in particular 👀) I am hoping to see more of them in future books and found Quilliam 🦔 to be an extra special, endearing addition to the story.
AKOMAR is meant to be the first in an interconnected standalone series of books and releases on 08/24/2026.
Read this for a story about hurt x comfort, learning to trust again, and finding love in unexpected places. Grab a blanket and your favorite tea for this one, it’s going to be a captivating read. ✨
I found Emelin, our FMC, to be so beautifully vulnerable, and relatable. There were so many points throughout the story where I felt for her and found myself connecting to aspects of her character I don’t usually get to see in fantasy books. There is a quiet strength to her and it was such a fantastic reminder that strength is not always physical.
Adrian, our Mr. Darcy coded MMC, is powerful, but expressive even in moments of stoicism. He is a green flag, swoon-worthy MMC and is tasked with helping Emelin unlock her magic so that she can restore balance to the kingdom of Emeraldia.
Both characters are overcoming pasts that haunt them and find comfort in their growing friendship as they train together, but are not fully prepared to let their guards down. There are LAYERS to the yearning here, and there was a rollercoaster of emotions I experienced as I delved deeper into their story.
The side characters had such excellent development throughout the book and I found myself wanting to know more about each one. (I have some theories about one in particular 👀) I am hoping to see more of them in future books and found Quilliam 🦔 to be an extra special, endearing addition to the story.
AKOMAR is meant to be the first in an interconnected standalone series of books and releases on 08/24/2026.
Read this for a story about hurt x comfort, learning to trust again, and finding love in unexpected places. Grab a blanket and your favorite tea for this one, it’s going to be a captivating read. ✨
August 9, 2026
“I wasn't scared of the powerful force. I wanted to be swept by its healing waters, losing myself in the current.”
I may have signed up to ARC read this book because of the beautiful character art I kept seeing, but this story swept me up in its healing waters. And I lost myself in the current.
What a beautiful, cozy, romantic fantasy! Right from the very beginning, you’re swept into the story. It’s so easy to fall in love with both Emelin and Adrian as they fall in love with each other. And even though this story is cozy, there are twists and turns I never saw coming.
Emelin is a princess of Emeraldia, human lands protected by a magical barrier to keep out the fae. When the wards start to fail, she begins training with a new lord to help her with her magic. This sets in motion a cascade of events of stolen moments and betrayal.
I adored this beautiful book! I needed something heartwarming, and this one delivered. The yearn, the thoughtfulness, the cute critters - wraps you up in a warm embrace as you follow our characters on their journey. I really enjoyed the mystery around the kingdoms’ past and uncovering lost secrets. As the secrets are revealed, our fmc blossoms into who she was meant to be - and Stars, it’s beautiful.
"I chose you long before the Stars did. I will keep choosing you for as long as I live."
Emelin and Adrian have a love that warms your heart. It’s beautiful, while at times heartbreaking.
If you love whimsical romantasy books with regency vibes, prophecies, and fae politics - you’ll love A Kingdom of Magic and Rain!
Thank you to the author and IRIS Influencer Society
for providing this book for review consideration - All opinions are my own.
I may have signed up to ARC read this book because of the beautiful character art I kept seeing, but this story swept me up in its healing waters. And I lost myself in the current.
What a beautiful, cozy, romantic fantasy! Right from the very beginning, you’re swept into the story. It’s so easy to fall in love with both Emelin and Adrian as they fall in love with each other. And even though this story is cozy, there are twists and turns I never saw coming.
Emelin is a princess of Emeraldia, human lands protected by a magical barrier to keep out the fae. When the wards start to fail, she begins training with a new lord to help her with her magic. This sets in motion a cascade of events of stolen moments and betrayal.
I adored this beautiful book! I needed something heartwarming, and this one delivered. The yearn, the thoughtfulness, the cute critters - wraps you up in a warm embrace as you follow our characters on their journey. I really enjoyed the mystery around the kingdoms’ past and uncovering lost secrets. As the secrets are revealed, our fmc blossoms into who she was meant to be - and Stars, it’s beautiful.
"I chose you long before the Stars did. I will keep choosing you for as long as I live."
Emelin and Adrian have a love that warms your heart. It’s beautiful, while at times heartbreaking.
If you love whimsical romantasy books with regency vibes, prophecies, and fae politics - you’ll love A Kingdom of Magic and Rain!
Thank you to the author and IRIS Influencer Society
for providing this book for review consideration - All opinions are my own.
July 15, 2026
An exciting fantasy adventure filled with magical humans and fae and two realms on opposite sides of a magical barrier readying for war!
You follow the FMC, who as a princess was never meant for the throne or to use her magic to protect her kingdom, and spent her days in love. But when her heart is broken and she learns the shield protecting the kingdom is starting to fail, she convinces her father the king to let her train her magic in order to help reinforce it, and he allows her to stay on the edge of a kingdom at a new powerful lords house in order to train under him. Little does she know this lord is also single and rather handsome and seems to care about his people. She must race against time to train her magic, but secrets are revealed and when she finds out the truth she’s heartbroken again, only this time to keep the peace, she must marry him to save both their people and the dying realms.
I really enjoyed this story, it allowed me to get swept up in it between the training and the romance and the chapters unfolded almost like a diary. I understood why the FMC was so angry when she learned the truth but I also understood where the MMC was coming from hiding things from her and it’s also clear he cares for her. There were so many exciting twists and betrayals and of course plots for murder that had me on the edge of my seat always hoping for a happy ending for the FMC. There was some good allies to lovers to enemies tension that was the best and overall I really enjoyed this book. My rating 4.7/5!
Thanks to the author for the gifted copy, all opinions given are my own!
You follow the FMC, who as a princess was never meant for the throne or to use her magic to protect her kingdom, and spent her days in love. But when her heart is broken and she learns the shield protecting the kingdom is starting to fail, she convinces her father the king to let her train her magic in order to help reinforce it, and he allows her to stay on the edge of a kingdom at a new powerful lords house in order to train under him. Little does she know this lord is also single and rather handsome and seems to care about his people. She must race against time to train her magic, but secrets are revealed and when she finds out the truth she’s heartbroken again, only this time to keep the peace, she must marry him to save both their people and the dying realms.
I really enjoyed this story, it allowed me to get swept up in it between the training and the romance and the chapters unfolded almost like a diary. I understood why the FMC was so angry when she learned the truth but I also understood where the MMC was coming from hiding things from her and it’s also clear he cares for her. There were so many exciting twists and betrayals and of course plots for murder that had me on the edge of my seat always hoping for a happy ending for the FMC. There was some good allies to lovers to enemies tension that was the best and overall I really enjoyed this book. My rating 4.7/5!
Thanks to the author for the gifted copy, all opinions given are my own!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 24, 2026
5 stars!!!!
This book is one of those stories that will sit with you, even after you turn the last page.
I knew when I read the first page, I KNEW I would adore this book. And I was not disappointed in the slightest!
It's a sweet fantasy story of an arranged marriage, a need to save a Kingdom and more secrets than my diary could ever hold!
Emelin is a human princess with a vanishing kingdom. Adrian is a fae who lives on the border between her Kingdom and the land of the Fae.
Emelin is a FMC who isn't a stabby girl that seems to be all the rage in fantasy books. She loves books and wants to spend her days with the one she loves and unknowing of her own magic.
Fate has other things in store for her..
Meet Adrian, he's the "Other Things in Store." If you loved Mr. Darcy, you will love him. He's broody, protective, stoic and full of his own secrets.
This is book one in a series, so there are places where this story can grow and there will be more information to be uncovered.
Some will think the world building is lacking, but I think this is just right.
I wish I could say I devoured this in a weekend, but I found myself taking my time, wanting to devour every sentence in this book.
And I was not disappointed.
To me, this story reminded me of Jane Austen's writings. (If Jane Austen wrote magic and fae!)
I can't wait for Book Two! I need to know what's going to happen next!!!
This book is one of those stories that will sit with you, even after you turn the last page.
I knew when I read the first page, I KNEW I would adore this book. And I was not disappointed in the slightest!
It's a sweet fantasy story of an arranged marriage, a need to save a Kingdom and more secrets than my diary could ever hold!
Emelin is a human princess with a vanishing kingdom. Adrian is a fae who lives on the border between her Kingdom and the land of the Fae.
Emelin is a FMC who isn't a stabby girl that seems to be all the rage in fantasy books. She loves books and wants to spend her days with the one she loves and unknowing of her own magic.
Fate has other things in store for her..
Meet Adrian, he's the "Other Things in Store." If you loved Mr. Darcy, you will love him. He's broody, protective, stoic and full of his own secrets.
This is book one in a series, so there are places where this story can grow and there will be more information to be uncovered.
Some will think the world building is lacking, but I think this is just right.
I wish I could say I devoured this in a weekend, but I found myself taking my time, wanting to devour every sentence in this book.
And I was not disappointed.
To me, this story reminded me of Jane Austen's writings. (If Jane Austen wrote magic and fae!)
I can't wait for Book Two! I need to know what's going to happen next!!!
July 12, 2026
Thank you V.I. Davis for sending me the Arc!💗
I finished this in one sitting because this was written in such a way that feels light and easy to follow. If you want to read a cozy romantasy this one is definitely for you. The world building wasn’t complicated and it was so fun to read. I also loved the fmc & mmc they were just so sweet together and I’m an arranged marriage lover so this was definitely my vibe.
I believe that V.I Davis is an amazing author and can’t wait to read more.
I finished this in one sitting because this was written in such a way that feels light and easy to follow. If you want to read a cozy romantasy this one is definitely for you. The world building wasn’t complicated and it was so fun to read. I also loved the fmc & mmc they were just so sweet together and I’m an arranged marriage lover so this was definitely my vibe.
I believe that V.I Davis is an amazing author and can’t wait to read more.
Did Not Finish
August 17, 2026DNF at 38%.
I had many issues with this one. It started off strong, but then the pace started giving me whiplash. The plot just kept going around in circles—the failing wards, her being unable to access her magic, her heartbreak over her cheating fiancé. Everything felt very surface level, and the relationship between the MCs didn’t feel earned at all. I also really struggled with the FMC. She was too whiny and childish, on the verge of tears one too many times, and the little progression she made wasn’t enough to keep me interested.
Most reviews said that this went downhill in the second half. I was willing to give it a chance anyway, but in the end, I didn’t even make it halfway. I don’t know how much worse this could get, and I don’t want to find out.
I received an ARC for this book, and this is my honest opinion.
I had many issues with this one. It started off strong, but then the pace started giving me whiplash. The plot just kept going around in circles—the failing wards, her being unable to access her magic, her heartbreak over her cheating fiancé. Everything felt very surface level, and the relationship between the MCs didn’t feel earned at all. I also really struggled with the FMC. She was too whiny and childish, on the verge of tears one too many times, and the little progression she made wasn’t enough to keep me interested.
Most reviews said that this went downhill in the second half. I was willing to give it a chance anyway, but in the end, I didn’t even make it halfway. I don’t know how much worse this could get, and I don’t want to find out.
I received an ARC for this book, and this is my honest opinion.
August 12, 2026
I really struggled rating this book! On one hand, I enjoyed the characters & the plot lines… but the writing was lacking for me. It was a little clunky and instead of the author revealing things along the way, something would happen and a conversation would happen with a side character that would information dump everything you need to know.
I also was very bothered by the fmc pursuing another male and almost cheating on the mmc…. When this was a HUGE part of the plot! The whole reason the book begins and throws them together is because they were both cheated on by their fiancé’s. I just didn’t understand why the author would then later include a plot line with the fmc almost cheating on her man?! This wasn’t needed….
Even though the writing didn’t do it for me, I will say I still was fully invested in these characters and enjoyed the book. A few things I liked:
- I loved the idea of the fae and humans, who are enemies, have to work together to save their lands.
- I also thought it was interesting to give the mmc a fae mate who he rejects the bond with.
- the addition of another fae male vying for the fmc’s attention… but what exactly ARE his intentions?! Looking forward to learning more about Finn! He’s a fun side character!
Thank you VI Davis for the eARC in exchange for my honest review.
I also was very bothered by the fmc pursuing another male and almost cheating on the mmc…. When this was a HUGE part of the plot! The whole reason the book begins and throws them together is because they were both cheated on by their fiancé’s. I just didn’t understand why the author would then later include a plot line with the fmc almost cheating on her man?! This wasn’t needed….
Even though the writing didn’t do it for me, I will say I still was fully invested in these characters and enjoyed the book. A few things I liked:
- I loved the idea of the fae and humans, who are enemies, have to work together to save their lands.
- I also thought it was interesting to give the mmc a fae mate who he rejects the bond with.
- the addition of another fae male vying for the fmc’s attention… but what exactly ARE his intentions?! Looking forward to learning more about Finn! He’s a fun side character!
Thank you VI Davis for the eARC in exchange for my honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 24, 2026
3.5
On paper, A Kingdom of Magic and Rain should have been an easy 5 star read for me! A green-flag MMC, a refreshing FMC, a marriage of convenience, and lots of yearning? Sign me upppp lol! While I had a generally great time reading this book, I did feel like there were some areas where the execution fell a little short for me.
Firstly, like I mentioned, I loved how refreshing the main characters felt. Emelin wasn't your typical baddie with a sharp tongue and incredible combat skills that you often see in romantasy these days. She's soft, sensitive, quick to trust, and incredibly in tune with her emotions. I especially loved seeing that she cries easily when dealing with confrontations, because that's something we don't often see in FMCs nowadays, and I found that aspect of her character really relatable. (+ She also enjoys painting and reading! Is she literally me haha.)
Adrian was also a great MMC. Maybe not as much refreshing on my end because I tend to avoid red-flag MMCs (no shame to those who enjoy them! Just not my cup of tea), so he joins the abundance of green-flag MMCs on my read shelf haha. But he was still a great character nonetheless! He's literally a fool for Emelin and would do absolutely anything for her, and if you love seeing pathetic MMCs grovelling, this is definitely the book for you haha.
I also didn't see the way the plot progressed coming haha so I was pleasantly surprised by the twist! It did make the book feel a little less cosy than I'd initially expected, although I guess it still fit with the overall tone since most of the conflicts were resolved relatively easily, at least in my opinion, so the stakes never felt particularly high.
Unfortunately, a lot of the other aspects didn't quite meet my expectations. The first (and honestly probably most personal) issue I had was with the worldbuilding. While we were given plenty of information about Emeraldia, Aubrielle, and their history, I didn't feel like I was really immersed in the world. The world itself is fascinating, but I wanted to feel the ambience rather than simply be handed information about it. While a lot of the side characters (Thea, Sebastian, Tom, and others) were lovable, I would've loved to see more depth from them to help further establish that found-family atmosphere. A character I surprisingly ended up liking was Finn, though! Sure, he was conniving and self-serving, but I also found him to be really intriguing, and I'm excited to learn more about him in the following installments.
I also had some issues with the romance. Technically, their relationship progressed over a reasonable amount of time, but because a lot of that development happened in between the time skips, I didn't really get to experience their relationship growing. As a result, it ended up feeling a little insta-lovey. I know that showing more of their relationship would've made the book longer, but I feel like more could've been done to establish that emotional foundation, especially considering everything that happened in the second half. It would've made the story fit more cohesively in my opinion.
Side note: I also wasn't really sure how to feel about the almost-cheating plotline, especially considering that both main characters had previously experienced the hurt caused by unfaithful partners. It felt quite out of character to me.
Despite all of that, this was a weirdly addictive read. I didn't exactly breeze through it, but I was still invested in Emelin and Adrian's relationship and genuinely wanted to see where their story went. I think if you come into this wanting to have a turn-your-brain-off read and some fun time, this could very well be the perfect book to pick up! Overall, definitely more of a mixed bag for me than I'd hoped, but I still had a good time with it!
Thank you IRIS Influencer Society and V.I. Davis for providing this book for review consideration via BookFunnel. All opinions are my own.
On paper, A Kingdom of Magic and Rain should have been an easy 5 star read for me! A green-flag MMC, a refreshing FMC, a marriage of convenience, and lots of yearning? Sign me upppp lol! While I had a generally great time reading this book, I did feel like there were some areas where the execution fell a little short for me.
To those who feel weak. At times, quiet strength is more powerful than the loudest battlecry. Forge on.
Firstly, like I mentioned, I loved how refreshing the main characters felt. Emelin wasn't your typical baddie with a sharp tongue and incredible combat skills that you often see in romantasy these days. She's soft, sensitive, quick to trust, and incredibly in tune with her emotions. I especially loved seeing that she cries easily when dealing with confrontations, because that's something we don't often see in FMCs nowadays, and I found that aspect of her character really relatable. (+ She also enjoys painting and reading! Is she literally me haha.)
"A light doesn't have to burn brightly to radiate warmth." Our gazes locked and held. "As beauty doesn't have to be loud to be exquisite."
Adrian was also a great MMC. Maybe not as much refreshing on my end because I tend to avoid red-flag MMCs (no shame to those who enjoy them! Just not my cup of tea), so he joins the abundance of green-flag MMCs on my read shelf haha. But he was still a great character nonetheless! He's literally a fool for Emelin and would do absolutely anything for her, and if you love seeing pathetic MMCs grovelling, this is definitely the book for you haha.
"To me, you are the brightest star, more luminous than the entire stellar sea above us. You are magnificent, inside and out, with a gentle heart that bleeds for your people."
I also didn't see the way the plot progressed coming haha so I was pleasantly surprised by the twist! It did make the book feel a little less cosy than I'd initially expected, although I guess it still fit with the overall tone since most of the conflicts were resolved relatively easily, at least in my opinion, so the stakes never felt particularly high.
"You are my North Star."
Unfortunately, a lot of the other aspects didn't quite meet my expectations. The first (and honestly probably most personal) issue I had was with the worldbuilding. While we were given plenty of information about Emeraldia, Aubrielle, and their history, I didn't feel like I was really immersed in the world. The world itself is fascinating, but I wanted to feel the ambience rather than simply be handed information about it. While a lot of the side characters (Thea, Sebastian, Tom, and others) were lovable, I would've loved to see more depth from them to help further establish that found-family atmosphere. A character I surprisingly ended up liking was Finn, though! Sure, he was conniving and self-serving, but I also found him to be really intriguing, and I'm excited to learn more about him in the following installments.
"Emelin, you mean so much to me. Don't ever forget that."
I also had some issues with the romance. Technically, their relationship progressed over a reasonable amount of time, but because a lot of that development happened in between the time skips, I didn't really get to experience their relationship growing. As a result, it ended up feeling a little insta-lovey. I know that showing more of their relationship would've made the book longer, but I feel like more could've been done to establish that emotional foundation, especially considering everything that happened in the second half. It would've made the story fit more cohesively in my opinion.
"You looked breathtakingly beautiful on our wedding day,"..."As if one of the Stars had fallen from the skies and you emerged from the stardust, divine and ethereal."
Side note: I also wasn't really sure how to feel about the almost-cheating plotline, especially considering that both main characters had previously experienced the hurt caused by unfaithful partners. It felt quite out of character to me.
"You don't know what that look does to me. It has the power to bring me to my knees and make me grovel at your feet, for a mere brush of your lips against mine."
Despite all of that, this was a weirdly addictive read. I didn't exactly breeze through it, but I was still invested in Emelin and Adrian's relationship and genuinely wanted to see where their story went. I think if you come into this wanting to have a turn-your-brain-off read and some fun time, this could very well be the perfect book to pick up! Overall, definitely more of a mixed bag for me than I'd hoped, but I still had a good time with it!
"I chose you long before the Stars did. I will keep choosing you for as long as I live."
Thank you IRIS Influencer Society and V.I. Davis for providing this book for review consideration via BookFunnel. All opinions are my own.
August 18, 2026
This was wonderfully surprising read to me. I enjoyed how the fmc was soft hearted and showed strength and beauty more quietly, yet it did not lessen her character in any way.
I had my moments of hesitation while reading, where I questioned the mmc’s choices and their consequences. In my opinion that is a good sign in a book when you start to ponder characters choices and actions. The conflict that the characters faced was indeed a serious one, and I appreciated that it wasn’t something silly but actually significant. I do understand why Adrian hid his true purposes in the manor, yet I did feel Emelin’s pain of it as well.
I loved how enamored the couple became with each other. No matter how hard they both fought against their feelings, this time the reasonings were very valid. I almost didn’t understand how they fell in love with each other so quickly, yet isn’t the beauty of falling in love? You spend quiet and seemingly insignificant moments together, and all of a sudden you realize how significant the other has become to you? I really liked how well done that was.
The only thing I didn’t like was Emelin’s rendezvous with a mysterious man. Which in a way I do understand her reasonings, but again I didn’t. Nonetheless it showed that neither of the characters were perfect, yet they suit each other perfectly. I loved their quiet, passionate and loving moments with each other. It made me feel their love for each other.
Wonderful and refreshing read. I recommend this book. I did not see all the twists and turns coming.
Thank you very much for the ARC! 🩷
Rating: 4.5/5
I had my moments of hesitation while reading, where I questioned the mmc’s choices and their consequences. In my opinion that is a good sign in a book when you start to ponder characters choices and actions. The conflict that the characters faced was indeed a serious one, and I appreciated that it wasn’t something silly but actually significant. I do understand why Adrian hid his true purposes in the manor, yet I did feel Emelin’s pain of it as well.
I loved how enamored the couple became with each other. No matter how hard they both fought against their feelings, this time the reasonings were very valid. I almost didn’t understand how they fell in love with each other so quickly, yet isn’t the beauty of falling in love? You spend quiet and seemingly insignificant moments together, and all of a sudden you realize how significant the other has become to you? I really liked how well done that was.
The only thing I didn’t like was Emelin’s rendezvous with a mysterious man. Which in a way I do understand her reasonings, but again I didn’t. Nonetheless it showed that neither of the characters were perfect, yet they suit each other perfectly. I loved their quiet, passionate and loving moments with each other. It made me feel their love for each other.
Wonderful and refreshing read. I recommend this book. I did not see all the twists and turns coming.
Thank you very much for the ARC! 🩷
Rating: 4.5/5
August 31, 2026
I knew I would like this book but it still took me by surprise! The characters and world building was excellent and vivid but at the same time easy to see and understand! And what did you put into Adrian, our MMC?! Absolutely fenomenal! I loved him and his yearning! I also loved our FMC, the soft and bookish Emelin. I loved how she was both soft and fierce and her character growth felt genuine and not rushed! All the characters felt very real and had realistic reactions to the events that happend! To not forgive and just be fine after the different altering experiences that happend! It was a really vivid and lush book with twists I didn’t expect and a lot of yearning, feelings and character growth. I could have read a few hundred pages more of this and I didn’t want it to end!
I you want a book with a soft bookish FMC, a yearning MMC in a story filled with love, surprises, magic and vivid world building, this is the book for you!
Thank you to the author for giving me the opportunity to ARC read this book! All my opinions and thoughts are my honest and genuine ones!
I you want a book with a soft bookish FMC, a yearning MMC in a story filled with love, surprises, magic and vivid world building, this is the book for you!
Thank you to the author for giving me the opportunity to ARC read this book! All my opinions and thoughts are my honest and genuine ones!
August 19, 2026
A kingdom of magic and rain ARC review:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I loved this story so much. I was smiling during the entirety of reading. I really enjoyed that this was a standalone and that so much was build into this story.
I loved that the story started with journal entries recounting the events that happened.
Our FMC Emelin was very relatable in her actions and decisions. I loved watching her story unfold. I tend to cry very easily when expressing my emotions and loved to have a character that was so similar to myself.
Our MMC Adrian was perfect in every way. He was understanding and so comforting throughout the whole story. I just loved him so much.
I feel the pacing was good and kept me interested throughout. The ending wrapped up beautifully.
August 24, 2026
A Kingdom of Magic and Rain was fantastic! This is cozy fantasy romance at its best, I loved it. The story follows Emelin, princess of the human realm, as she learns to harness her magic, while negotiating the safety of her kingdom, and possible war with the neighboring fae realm. And not only that, but dear reader, this story also has the sweetest romance, with the greenest green flag MMC.
Adrian and Emelin are so endearing, and so sweet, I loved them both immediately, and was captivated by their romance from the word go. Over the course of the story they face plenty of obstacles, but the final conclusion is so so satisfying and felt well earned. The plot moves quickly, I couldn’t put this down, and the entire cast of characters was a lot of fun.
Huge thank you to the author for providing an advance copy in exchange for an honest review, I can only hope V.I. Davis has more in store for this magical world!
Adrian and Emelin are so endearing, and so sweet, I loved them both immediately, and was captivated by their romance from the word go. Over the course of the story they face plenty of obstacles, but the final conclusion is so so satisfying and felt well earned. The plot moves quickly, I couldn’t put this down, and the entire cast of characters was a lot of fun.
Huge thank you to the author for providing an advance copy in exchange for an honest review, I can only hope V.I. Davis has more in store for this magical world!
Review of advance copy received from Author
When the Characters Steal the Magic
A fading kingdom, a princess whose magic refuses to cooperate, a mysterious lord and enough Fae trouble to make an ordinary political crisis look positively relaxing. 'A Kingdom of Magic and Rain' brings together magic, romance, Regency-inspired vibes and a marriage of convenience in a standalone romantasy that is surprisingly easy to sink into.
The characters are without a doubt the strongest part of this book. They are engaging enough to keep the story moving, and their relationships give the plot an emotional foundation that works particularly well. Emelin is an easy character to root for, while Adrian brings exactly the kind of guarded-but-green-flag energy that romantasy readers tend to appreciate.
The writing is wonderfully immersive. Once the story gets going, it is easy to lose track of time and simply keep reading. The balance between the fantasy elements and the romantic storyline also works well, creating a cosy atmosphere while still leaving enough danger and political tension to keep things interesting.
The Regency-inspired setting adds another fun layer to the story, while the Fae elements, magic and romance give it plenty of familiar romantasy ingredients without making it feel like it is trying to reinvent the genre.
Not every element lands with quite the same impact, but the strong character work and highly engaging writing make this an enjoyable read from beginning to end.
A charming, magical and romantic standalone for readers who enjoy their fantasy with Fae, spice, political complications and a green flag MMC.
Cozy Romantasy | Spicy Romance | Fae | Green Flag MMC | Soft FMC | Marriage of Convenience | Regency-Inspired | Magic
A fading kingdom, a princess whose magic refuses to cooperate, a mysterious lord and enough Fae trouble to make an ordinary political crisis look positively relaxing. 'A Kingdom of Magic and Rain' brings together magic, romance, Regency-inspired vibes and a marriage of convenience in a standalone romantasy that is surprisingly easy to sink into.
The characters are without a doubt the strongest part of this book. They are engaging enough to keep the story moving, and their relationships give the plot an emotional foundation that works particularly well. Emelin is an easy character to root for, while Adrian brings exactly the kind of guarded-but-green-flag energy that romantasy readers tend to appreciate.
The writing is wonderfully immersive. Once the story gets going, it is easy to lose track of time and simply keep reading. The balance between the fantasy elements and the romantic storyline also works well, creating a cosy atmosphere while still leaving enough danger and political tension to keep things interesting.
The Regency-inspired setting adds another fun layer to the story, while the Fae elements, magic and romance give it plenty of familiar romantasy ingredients without making it feel like it is trying to reinvent the genre.
Not every element lands with quite the same impact, but the strong character work and highly engaging writing make this an enjoyable read from beginning to end.
A charming, magical and romantic standalone for readers who enjoy their fantasy with Fae, spice, political complications and a green flag MMC.
Cozy Romantasy | Spicy Romance | Fae | Green Flag MMC | Soft FMC | Marriage of Convenience | Regency-Inspired | Magic
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.75 Stars
This was beautiful. It has that soft, cozy romantasy feel with so much yearning. Emelin was such a relatable FMC, vulnerable in all the right ways, but you can feel her strength building as the story goes on. I loved watching her grow into herself.
Adrian had a few moments where I questioned him, but he really came through. He turns into this devoted, steady MMC who I ended up rooting for. His character got better and better the more I read.
My only wish was for a little more at the end. Everything comes together, but some pieces felt rushed, and I wanted more time to sit with how things unfolded.
Overall, this story was magical, emotional and full of yearning in the best way. I really loved this!
This was beautiful. It has that soft, cozy romantasy feel with so much yearning. Emelin was such a relatable FMC, vulnerable in all the right ways, but you can feel her strength building as the story goes on. I loved watching her grow into herself.
Adrian had a few moments where I questioned him, but he really came through. He turns into this devoted, steady MMC who I ended up rooting for. His character got better and better the more I read.
My only wish was for a little more at the end. Everything comes together, but some pieces felt rushed, and I wanted more time to sit with how things unfolded.
Overall, this story was magical, emotional and full of yearning in the best way. I really loved this!
July 24, 2026
Emelin’s story is not only one of self discovery but of love. It pulled me in from the very beginning and I couldn’t put it down.
August 3, 2026
Oh my sweet goddess what a read!!!!!! Obsessed!!!! I need more from Adrian Em Thea Tom… hoping more books to come💜
August 21, 2026
Rating: 4.5 ⭐️
Spice: 2 🌶️
Full arc review to come!
Spice: 2 🌶️
Full arc review to come!
August 16, 2026
Advanced Reader Copy received from the Author
Book 1 of Three Kingdoms
A Kingdom of Magic and Rain
V. I. Davis
If you’ve been looking for your next cozy magical romantic read, this is it.
A broken kingdom. A broken princess. A love that can heal them both.
As the magical wards protecting her kingdom fade away, a powerless princess must train with a mysterious lord to awaken her powers, only to learn that falling in love may be the most dangerous magic of all.
Tropes:
Soft, bookish FMC
Royalcore
Humans vs Fae
Fated mates with a twist
Marriage ot convenience
Regency romance vibe
Whimsical fantasy elements
Duty vs love
Court intrigue
Found family
Nature magic
Yearning
Open door romance
If you’re looking for a green flag MMC and a soft FMC is up your alley, you’ve found your next best read.
2 kingdoms, the mortal human realm but blessed with earth magic Emeraldia and fae kingdom Aubrielle, separated by protective, separation wards, that are fading. It’s not a matter of ‘if’ but of ‘when’.
Get ready to meet;
Princess Emelin Elise Clairborne whose powers are blocked
Lord Adrian Gray - entrusted to train Emelin in unlocking her magic
Emelin is on a path to unlock her legacy of magic, suppressed deep down by herself, she new desires to gain access to aid in saving her fathers kingdom. With what starts out as a cold, forced connection to Lord Gray, the one tasked with aiding in this task, Emelin and Gray need to work together, edging the line of appropriateness between Princess and Lord. Will he unlock more than just her powers?
As the weeks pass and Emelin’s powers still lay dormant, her and Gray fall into a comfortable friendship as he gently tries to coax her powers awake, but that’s not the only thing being awoken.
Ever the gentleman, even chaste touches abruptly end when one of the household members appear, while subtle moments of tenderness start becoming more evident.
The attraction becomes something that neither can ignore, and the emotions start to slowly develop in early mornings between cups of coffee and conversation.
But a war is still brewing, the wards are still failing.
How far would you go to save your kingdom, while battling your own demons?
Favourite Quotes:
"Breathe. You can do this. I believe in you."
"Nothing and no one has the power to change the way I look at you," he uttered the words like a vow. "The way I see you."
“If we do this, you’re mine.”
“Will you allow me to make our dreams a reality?”
“You are my North Star”
Book 1 of Three Kingdoms
A Kingdom of Magic and Rain
V. I. Davis
If you’ve been looking for your next cozy magical romantic read, this is it.
A broken kingdom. A broken princess. A love that can heal them both.
As the magical wards protecting her kingdom fade away, a powerless princess must train with a mysterious lord to awaken her powers, only to learn that falling in love may be the most dangerous magic of all.
Tropes:
Soft, bookish FMC
Royalcore
Humans vs Fae
Fated mates with a twist
Marriage ot convenience
Regency romance vibe
Whimsical fantasy elements
Duty vs love
Court intrigue
Found family
Nature magic
Yearning
Open door romance
If you’re looking for a green flag MMC and a soft FMC is up your alley, you’ve found your next best read.
2 kingdoms, the mortal human realm but blessed with earth magic Emeraldia and fae kingdom Aubrielle, separated by protective, separation wards, that are fading. It’s not a matter of ‘if’ but of ‘when’.
Get ready to meet;
Princess Emelin Elise Clairborne whose powers are blocked
Lord Adrian Gray - entrusted to train Emelin in unlocking her magic
Emelin is on a path to unlock her legacy of magic, suppressed deep down by herself, she new desires to gain access to aid in saving her fathers kingdom. With what starts out as a cold, forced connection to Lord Gray, the one tasked with aiding in this task, Emelin and Gray need to work together, edging the line of appropriateness between Princess and Lord. Will he unlock more than just her powers?
As the weeks pass and Emelin’s powers still lay dormant, her and Gray fall into a comfortable friendship as he gently tries to coax her powers awake, but that’s not the only thing being awoken.
Ever the gentleman, even chaste touches abruptly end when one of the household members appear, while subtle moments of tenderness start becoming more evident.
The attraction becomes something that neither can ignore, and the emotions start to slowly develop in early mornings between cups of coffee and conversation.
But a war is still brewing, the wards are still failing.
How far would you go to save your kingdom, while battling your own demons?
Favourite Quotes:
"Breathe. You can do this. I believe in you."
"Nothing and no one has the power to change the way I look at you," he uttered the words like a vow. "The way I see you."
“If we do this, you’re mine.”
“Will you allow me to make our dreams a reality?”
“You are my North Star”
August 22, 2026
4⭐️ ┇ Bookstagram ┇ BookTok
This was such a good cozy romantasy! This is the first book in an interconnected standalone series, and I really enjoyed the story, the magical elements, and especially the relationship between Emelin and Gray. The tension between them was SO good.
We follow Princess Emelin, whose magic has remained dormant. But when the wards protecting her kingdom from the fae begin to fail, she becomes desperate to awaken her powers so she can help protect her family and kingdom. She turns to Adrian Gray, an incredibly powerful but mysterious and guarded man, and asks him to train her.
Reluctantly, Gray agrees, and Emelin goes to stay with him—giving us all the forced proximity and delicious tension. As her feelings for Gray grow stronger, so does her magic, and I really loved watching her discover her power and grow more confident in herself.
And Gray…He is the ultimate green-flag MMC. I personally tend to love my MMCs dark and full of red flags, but I absolutely loved him. There are secrets revealed that lead to a bit of a betrayal, but I really appreciated that Gray didn’t expect forgiveness to come easily. He works hard to earn Emelin’s trust again and prove how much she means to him.
I really enjoyed their love story and the way their relationship developed throughout the book. It had that perfect mix of romance, magic, tension, and emotional growth.
Overall, this was such a cozy and enjoyable romantasy, and I’m definitely interested in continuing the series!
‧₊˚✧𝓦𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓽𝓸 𝓮𝔁𝓹𝓮𝓬𝓽✧˚₊‧
➳❥ Interconnected Romantasy Standalone
➳❥ Forced Proximity
➳❥ Magic Training
➳❥ Green Flag MMC
➳❥ Marriage of Convenience
➳❥ Humans & Fae
➳❥ Slow Burn
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ 𝓕𝓪𝓿 𝓠𝓾𝓸𝓽t𝓮𝓼
“A light doesn't have to burn brightly to radiate warmth. As beauty doesn't have to be loud to be exquisite.”
“And here I thought I was a distraction.”
“Oh, you are most definitely a distraction.”
“To me, you are the brightest star, more luminous than the entire stellar sea above us. You are magnificent, inside and out, with a gentle heart that bleeds for your people. There is a light inside you that you don't realize you possess, capable of guiding me out of the shadows even in the darkest hour. I want to be the guardian of that light, your fierce protector and more.”
“I chose you long before the Stars did.”
This was such a good cozy romantasy! This is the first book in an interconnected standalone series, and I really enjoyed the story, the magical elements, and especially the relationship between Emelin and Gray. The tension between them was SO good.
We follow Princess Emelin, whose magic has remained dormant. But when the wards protecting her kingdom from the fae begin to fail, she becomes desperate to awaken her powers so she can help protect her family and kingdom. She turns to Adrian Gray, an incredibly powerful but mysterious and guarded man, and asks him to train her.
Reluctantly, Gray agrees, and Emelin goes to stay with him—giving us all the forced proximity and delicious tension. As her feelings for Gray grow stronger, so does her magic, and I really loved watching her discover her power and grow more confident in herself.
And Gray…He is the ultimate green-flag MMC. I personally tend to love my MMCs dark and full of red flags, but I absolutely loved him. There are secrets revealed that lead to a bit of a betrayal, but I really appreciated that Gray didn’t expect forgiveness to come easily. He works hard to earn Emelin’s trust again and prove how much she means to him.
I really enjoyed their love story and the way their relationship developed throughout the book. It had that perfect mix of romance, magic, tension, and emotional growth.
Overall, this was such a cozy and enjoyable romantasy, and I’m definitely interested in continuing the series!
‧₊˚✧𝓦𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓽𝓸 𝓮𝔁𝓹𝓮𝓬𝓽✧˚₊‧
➳❥ Interconnected Romantasy Standalone
➳❥ Forced Proximity
➳❥ Magic Training
➳❥ Green Flag MMC
➳❥ Marriage of Convenience
➳❥ Humans & Fae
➳❥ Slow Burn
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ 𝓕𝓪𝓿 𝓠𝓾𝓸𝓽t𝓮𝓼
“A light doesn't have to burn brightly to radiate warmth. As beauty doesn't have to be loud to be exquisite.”
“And here I thought I was a distraction.”
“Oh, you are most definitely a distraction.”
“To me, you are the brightest star, more luminous than the entire stellar sea above us. You are magnificent, inside and out, with a gentle heart that bleeds for your people. There is a light inside you that you don't realize you possess, capable of guiding me out of the shadows even in the darkest hour. I want to be the guardian of that light, your fierce protector and more.”
“I chose you long before the Stars did.”
August 24, 2026
A Kingdom of Magic and Rain brought me back to my fantasy roots and reminded me exactly why I began reading as a kid. It’s not my go-to genre as of lately (very clearly been on a dark romance binge), but after reading Josephine’s Tear I knew V.I would quickly become one of my favorite indie authors so I couldn’t pass up this one. Her writing is so beautifully potent in the best way, providing plot lines and characters that truly leave a lasting effect on you. Let me just tell you, AKOMAR did not fall short of the five stars I expected this read to be.
Emelin and Adrian made my heart swoon so dang hard. Adrian was a breathe of fresh air, as an MMC he was truly a golden retriever and a green flag through and through. He was so gentle and patient with Emelin, and the compassion he had for his people was so beautiful. Emelin, girl, you stressed me out. I was rooting for you SO hard & then you made me so dang mad at you.😂💀 She’s so precious, I adored how she grew into herself and her magic, how soft and sweet-spoken she was, and I loved how her and Adrian came together. That first kiss had me swinging my feet, giggling, and tearing up. Some of the quotes from the moments they shared together with stay with me forever. However, I was ready to fight Emelin at one point - I promise you though every other beautiful and emotionally provoking moment was worth that one lil “girl, wtf are you doing” moment.🥴😂
I’ve come to really enjoy the nature magic trope, and V.I did a wonderful job presenting that through her unique and vibrant writing. The world building was stunning, and truly fit the cozy, elegant, and whimsical fantasy vibes I was expecting and hoping for, and the plot line kept me fully engulfed and enchanted, yearning for each chapter to come. There were twists and turns, moments that had my heart racing, and learning about the history of Emeraldia and their wards & how they came to their current faltering state was such an enjoyable adventure and a wonderful palate cleanser - truly the magical fix I needed. I foresee myself going on a romantasy binge soon…😂🤪
Emelin and Adrian made my heart swoon so dang hard. Adrian was a breathe of fresh air, as an MMC he was truly a golden retriever and a green flag through and through. He was so gentle and patient with Emelin, and the compassion he had for his people was so beautiful. Emelin, girl, you stressed me out. I was rooting for you SO hard & then you made me so dang mad at you.😂💀 She’s so precious, I adored how she grew into herself and her magic, how soft and sweet-spoken she was, and I loved how her and Adrian came together. That first kiss had me swinging my feet, giggling, and tearing up. Some of the quotes from the moments they shared together with stay with me forever. However, I was ready to fight Emelin at one point - I promise you though every other beautiful and emotionally provoking moment was worth that one lil “girl, wtf are you doing” moment.🥴😂
I’ve come to really enjoy the nature magic trope, and V.I did a wonderful job presenting that through her unique and vibrant writing. The world building was stunning, and truly fit the cozy, elegant, and whimsical fantasy vibes I was expecting and hoping for, and the plot line kept me fully engulfed and enchanted, yearning for each chapter to come. There were twists and turns, moments that had my heart racing, and learning about the history of Emeraldia and their wards & how they came to their current faltering state was such an enjoyable adventure and a wonderful palate cleanser - truly the magical fix I needed. I foresee myself going on a romantasy binge soon…😂🤪
August 25, 2026
If you’re looking for a cozy fantasy but with a dark undercurrent, twists and betrayals, this is the one. If you’re looking for something to read after ACOTAR, read A Kingdom of Magic and Rain! The parallels are VERY similar, but a regency-style setting and cozy mornings with a book and coffee.
Three hundred years ago, the Fae and humans lived together amicably, until a war broke out and forced a divide with the humans erecting a magical barrier separating the two and protecting the human kingdom of Emeraldia from further Fae invasion. The humans possess nature magic, that the women infuse into the ground for life and crops to prosper, and men infuse into the barrier for protection against Fae and harsh climates. But the barrier is deteriorating, and our sweet human princess Emelin does the only thing she can think of to spark her ignored royal magic and help bolster the border’s strength, she enlists the help of the new warden of the northern border, Adrian. Unlikely alliances, unanticipated betrayals, well done spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️, humans v. Fae.
The story starts off slow as Elemin tries unsuccessfully for a long while to awaken her dormant magic. But as the situation grows more desperate and climate within the border worsens and threatens the livelihood of the human realm, things really start to pick up. The last 60% of the book I read nonstop, took it with me to do laundry, to the bathroom, couldn’t put it down, didn’t want to pull it away from my eyeballs! Yes, some of the plot points were strikingly familiar, but it didn’t diminish my desire to see what came next for our main characters and side characters! This is the first in a series of interconnected standalones, so the ending is satisfying, but I think I know one character the next will be focused on! Maybe not? But there is a little hint of more to come for Emelin for sure!
Thank you to V.I. Davis for including me in your early reader team and I’m looking forward to seeing which characters we follow next in the story of Emeraldia and the Fae territory!
Three hundred years ago, the Fae and humans lived together amicably, until a war broke out and forced a divide with the humans erecting a magical barrier separating the two and protecting the human kingdom of Emeraldia from further Fae invasion. The humans possess nature magic, that the women infuse into the ground for life and crops to prosper, and men infuse into the barrier for protection against Fae and harsh climates. But the barrier is deteriorating, and our sweet human princess Emelin does the only thing she can think of to spark her ignored royal magic and help bolster the border’s strength, she enlists the help of the new warden of the northern border, Adrian. Unlikely alliances, unanticipated betrayals, well done spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️, humans v. Fae.
The story starts off slow as Elemin tries unsuccessfully for a long while to awaken her dormant magic. But as the situation grows more desperate and climate within the border worsens and threatens the livelihood of the human realm, things really start to pick up. The last 60% of the book I read nonstop, took it with me to do laundry, to the bathroom, couldn’t put it down, didn’t want to pull it away from my eyeballs! Yes, some of the plot points were strikingly familiar, but it didn’t diminish my desire to see what came next for our main characters and side characters! This is the first in a series of interconnected standalones, so the ending is satisfying, but I think I know one character the next will be focused on! Maybe not? But there is a little hint of more to come for Emelin for sure!
Thank you to V.I. Davis for including me in your early reader team and I’m looking forward to seeing which characters we follow next in the story of Emeraldia and the Fae territory!
September 4, 2026
Gut rating: ⭐⭐
CAWPILE rating: TBD
ARC publication date: August 24th 2026
DNF at 10%
Tropes: Chosen one, royalty, political intrigue, Fae vs humans, nature magic, first person POV
My synopsis
After the deadly War of Two Worlds shook the continent, the human Kingdom of Emeraldia erected powerful wards separating them from the Fae Kingdom of Aubrielle. Emeraldia's King reinforces these wards with the nature magic bestowed on all in his Kingdom. But the wards are weakening, and magic is fading from the land.
Unlike the rest of Emeraldia, his daughter, 19yo Princess Emelin Claiborne, cannot unlock the powers inside herself. Determined to learn to harness her magic and help reinforce the wards, she convinces her father to let her train with the newly appointed Lord Adrian Gray, the grumpy grandnephew of the King's powerful Sorceress with strong abilities of his own. Can Emelin find the magic within her and help save her Kingdom?
My review
While the premise was strong, the story needed more editing to make it an easy, enjoyable book.
The story started off too fast, rushing ahead to get to the main plotline, leaving the setup feeling fragile and unlikely. Stronger world building and character development was needed to set the scene, with too many characters and big events abruptly introduced right at the start with little background. More research was needed to make the royal aspects more realistic and believable. Because of these issues, the story felt very juvenile and cliched. Stronger editing would really help clean up the story and make it flow better.
With thanks to the Publishers and NetGalley for providing me with this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Trigger warnings: Infidelity
CAWPILE rating: TBD
ARC publication date: August 24th 2026
DNF at 10%
Tropes: Chosen one, royalty, political intrigue, Fae vs humans, nature magic, first person POV
My synopsis
After the deadly War of Two Worlds shook the continent, the human Kingdom of Emeraldia erected powerful wards separating them from the Fae Kingdom of Aubrielle. Emeraldia's King reinforces these wards with the nature magic bestowed on all in his Kingdom. But the wards are weakening, and magic is fading from the land.
Unlike the rest of Emeraldia, his daughter, 19yo Princess Emelin Claiborne, cannot unlock the powers inside herself. Determined to learn to harness her magic and help reinforce the wards, she convinces her father to let her train with the newly appointed Lord Adrian Gray, the grumpy grandnephew of the King's powerful Sorceress with strong abilities of his own. Can Emelin find the magic within her and help save her Kingdom?
My review
While the premise was strong, the story needed more editing to make it an easy, enjoyable book.
The story started off too fast, rushing ahead to get to the main plotline, leaving the setup feeling fragile and unlikely. Stronger world building and character development was needed to set the scene, with too many characters and big events abruptly introduced right at the start with little background. More research was needed to make the royal aspects more realistic and believable. Because of these issues, the story felt very juvenile and cliched. Stronger editing would really help clean up the story and make it flow better.
With thanks to the Publishers and NetGalley for providing me with this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Trigger warnings: Infidelity
August 22, 2026
“There is a light inside you that you don’t realize you possess, capable of guiding me out of the shadows even in the darkest hour. I want to be the guardian of that light, your fierce protector and more.”
A Kingdom of Magic and Rain is the perfect cozy romantsy to read curled up under a blanket with a warm cup of tea. This story has all the green flags and feel-good vibes.
Emelin is everything a princess should be. Feminine, regal, poised, creative, gentle, and a lover of nature and animals (I adore Quilliam!). The magic of her royal line is required to protect her kingdom, but her own magic is stubbornly dormant. When she goes on a journey to awaken her magic so she can protect her people, her path leads her to unexpected places and truths, including into the arms of a man who she never expected to find.
Adrian is the human equivalent to a golden retriever, the type of masculine protector that every woman yearns for. He’s kind, patient, thoughtful, altruistic, and passionate. With his soft-spoken demeanor, a touch of brooding, and a steadfast devotion to those he loves, he sweeps Emelin off of her feet and into a world that she could never have dreamed of.
This story is filled with sweet romantic moments, with just the right balance of swoon vs. spice, and has multiple unexpected plot twists. The ending was really well done, and wraps up the story perfectly.
For those who love regency coded romantasy tales with a fairytale style happy ending, I highly recommend this book.
Thank you for sharing an ARC with me V.I. Davis! ♥️
August 22, 2026
Where’s the infinity star button ???
I have to take a second to think through everything that I felt while reading AKOMAR. Emotional roller coaster isn’t enough to express what transpired within me. I was so happy, feeling fluffy little big butterflies to banging my head on the table, internally screaming, feeling a tight gripping emotion when the SHOE DROPPED. Did I see that twist coming ? No. Did I cry. YEAH. So much happened in such a small amount that I was left SHOCKED. The Yearning, the waiting, the pain that Adrian felt was seen throughout these pages and things were never through his pov but the way V.I Davis expressed her words just reached me and I felt every emotion portrayed beautifully with both Adrian and Emelin.
We have side characters you can’t help but love but have a total different feel to them through the story which added tension to it all.
This is a story that I will love to relive time after time. A love story that surpasses the odds, love that formed through betrayal and strengthen through the pain that was bestowed upon the MCs.
If I could give you all visual’s of my life reaction I would have, comical is exactly what it was. The story brought the best and worst out of me. I wanted to seriously jump in the book and put some people in ch*ke holds, and then hug them all. This has become one of my favorite romantasy reads of the year.
Emelin feels conflicted, she’s been betrayed so she runs off to get space to getting news that would flip her world right up side down. She’ll do anything she can for her kingdom and working With lord Gray was the start to to finding her true self.
I have to take a second to think through everything that I felt while reading AKOMAR. Emotional roller coaster isn’t enough to express what transpired within me. I was so happy, feeling fluffy little big butterflies to banging my head on the table, internally screaming, feeling a tight gripping emotion when the SHOE DROPPED. Did I see that twist coming ? No. Did I cry. YEAH. So much happened in such a small amount that I was left SHOCKED. The Yearning, the waiting, the pain that Adrian felt was seen throughout these pages and things were never through his pov but the way V.I Davis expressed her words just reached me and I felt every emotion portrayed beautifully with both Adrian and Emelin.
We have side characters you can’t help but love but have a total different feel to them through the story which added tension to it all.
This is a story that I will love to relive time after time. A love story that surpasses the odds, love that formed through betrayal and strengthen through the pain that was bestowed upon the MCs.
If I could give you all visual’s of my life reaction I would have, comical is exactly what it was. The story brought the best and worst out of me. I wanted to seriously jump in the book and put some people in ch*ke holds, and then hug them all. This has become one of my favorite romantasy reads of the year.
Emelin feels conflicted, she’s been betrayed so she runs off to get space to getting news that would flip her world right up side down. She’ll do anything she can for her kingdom and working With lord Gray was the start to to finding her true self.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 307 reviews