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Queen of Reckoning: An enemies-to-more romantasy of a reluctant queen, a half-blind envoy, and the slow-burn romance that might be worth risking a kingdom for.
Not yet published
Expected 23 Jun 26Enemies-to-more. Forced proximity. A queen who rules by magic and the one man she can’t disarm.
Mandzee Hamartano didn’t ask to be queen. She didn’t ask for the peace treaty that’s turned half her city against her, the mage tournament that’s about to put her life on the line, or the envoy from Armonguard who’s moved into her palace and refuses to leave. She certainly didn’t ask to fall for him.
Lovell Dunn is King Gidon’s royal envoy. His task—shadow the queen, keep the treaty, and report back. He’s not there to be charmed by a mage with copper eyes and a laugh that could melt stone. He’s especially not there to let her heal the condition that’s been stealing his sight for years.
But Mandzee is in more danger than either of them realizes. A deadly mage tournament is being used as a killing ground. A dark force is gathering inside her walls. And her brother—believed dead—has just walked out of the shadows with his sights set on her throne.
To save her city, Mandzee will have to trust an Armanite who distrusts magic. And Lovell will have to risk the one future he’s been fighting for—to protect the one woman he can’t get out of his head.
Queen of Reckoning is a faith-forward romantasy
Enemies-to-more slow burn romance that simmers on every page
A fierce, morally complex queen learning to lead with mercy instead of fear
A half-blind hero whose wit is sharper than any sword
Forced proximity, interrupted kisses, and one very inconvenient dungeon
Political intrigue, a deadly tournament, and shadow forces threatening an entire city
A faith journey woven through the action—hope, redemption, and trusting in something greater
Perfect for readers who love Shari L. Tapscott, Sharon Hinck, or faith-safe alternatives to Sarah J. Maas—and for anyone who wants their fantasy romance with purpose.
Mandzee Hamartano didn’t ask to be queen. She didn’t ask for the peace treaty that’s turned half her city against her, the mage tournament that’s about to put her life on the line, or the envoy from Armonguard who’s moved into her palace and refuses to leave. She certainly didn’t ask to fall for him.
Lovell Dunn is King Gidon’s royal envoy. His task—shadow the queen, keep the treaty, and report back. He’s not there to be charmed by a mage with copper eyes and a laugh that could melt stone. He’s especially not there to let her heal the condition that’s been stealing his sight for years.
But Mandzee is in more danger than either of them realizes. A deadly mage tournament is being used as a killing ground. A dark force is gathering inside her walls. And her brother—believed dead—has just walked out of the shadows with his sights set on her throne.
To save her city, Mandzee will have to trust an Armanite who distrusts magic. And Lovell will have to risk the one future he’s been fighting for—to protect the one woman he can’t get out of his head.
Queen of Reckoning is a faith-forward romantasy
Enemies-to-more slow burn romance that simmers on every page
A fierce, morally complex queen learning to lead with mercy instead of fear
A half-blind hero whose wit is sharper than any sword
Forced proximity, interrupted kisses, and one very inconvenient dungeon
Political intrigue, a deadly tournament, and shadow forces threatening an entire city
A faith journey woven through the action—hope, redemption, and trusting in something greater
Perfect for readers who love Shari L. Tapscott, Sharon Hinck, or faith-safe alternatives to Sarah J. Maas—and for anyone who wants their fantasy romance with purpose.
403 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication June 23, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
May 22, 2026
Wow. This no spice Christian romantic fantasy was intense. After I picked the book up, I could not put it back down. I completely binged this novel in one night. It is by far my favorite of the series.
Mandzee is the queen of Jaelport. Jaelport is filled with magic and spells and the worship of false gods. Having created a treaty with the Christian king in a previous book, an envoy (Lovell) has been sent to check on whether the requirements are being met.
Mandzee is surrounded by a country resistant to her leadership, one firmly entrenched in their pagan way of life, highly resistant to Christianity, with danger around every corner. When challenged, she opts to compete in a mage tournament to prove that she deserves to rule them. She is surrounded by traitors and betrayal, with political intrigue around every corner.
Lovell is half-blind, but that doesn’t keep these enemies from responding to their forced proximity. This book had a lot to do with spells, a journey to Christ, redemption, and a strong theme of darkness and spiritual warfare. This was an intense and creative addition to this series. The romance is just kisses, intimacy level 2.
TW: Spells, Spirits, Murder, Injuries, Spiritual Warfare
I received an eARC of this book from the publisher and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Mandzee is the queen of Jaelport. Jaelport is filled with magic and spells and the worship of false gods. Having created a treaty with the Christian king in a previous book, an envoy (Lovell) has been sent to check on whether the requirements are being met.
Mandzee is surrounded by a country resistant to her leadership, one firmly entrenched in their pagan way of life, highly resistant to Christianity, with danger around every corner. When challenged, she opts to compete in a mage tournament to prove that she deserves to rule them. She is surrounded by traitors and betrayal, with political intrigue around every corner.
Lovell is half-blind, but that doesn’t keep these enemies from responding to their forced proximity. This book had a lot to do with spells, a journey to Christ, redemption, and a strong theme of darkness and spiritual warfare. This was an intense and creative addition to this series. The romance is just kisses, intimacy level 2.
TW: Spells, Spirits, Murder, Injuries, Spiritual Warfare
I received an eARC of this book from the publisher and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Wow! I think I just stepped off the wildest roller-coaster ride of emotions! Queen of Reckoning delivers all the palace intrigues we've come to expect from the Blood of Kings: Legends and then upped the game. Queen of Reckoning is a deep dive into the kingdom of Jaelport as we watch Mandzee Hamartano, now queen of Jaelport, begin to establish her reign.
My dislike for Jaelportian magery and magic hasn't changed, but this time we're getting to view the kingdom of Jaelport through Mandzee's eyes. She's facing one major uphill battle to gain control of her kingdom. Lovell Dunn, is sent as envoy from King Gidon to ensure that Jaelport is keeping the peace treaty that was negotiated. However, Lovell is facing his own uphill battle against impending blindness and his confidence and self-worth are wavering.
This is where the story gained traction and major points for me. We have two flawed main characters, one a believer in Arman and one not, who are both wrestling with doubts, questions, and faith. Both Lovell and Mandzee felt relatable and I genuinely rooted for them. The author beautifully wove the truth of the Bible into the story without becoming preachy. Rather, it felt natural to discover what Mandzee was learning, and see how it has the power to affect and change lives. There's a lot of darkness in this story. At times it was hard to keep going because there's an ick and creep factor to it. It's the moments when the Light breaks through and you see Arman still at work that pulled it all together for me. I came away from the story so grateful for the love of God towards humanity. And I came away with hope for the world we live in. Well done!
I did receive an eARC of this book from the publisher and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
My dislike for Jaelportian magery and magic hasn't changed, but this time we're getting to view the kingdom of Jaelport through Mandzee's eyes. She's facing one major uphill battle to gain control of her kingdom. Lovell Dunn, is sent as envoy from King Gidon to ensure that Jaelport is keeping the peace treaty that was negotiated. However, Lovell is facing his own uphill battle against impending blindness and his confidence and self-worth are wavering.
This is where the story gained traction and major points for me. We have two flawed main characters, one a believer in Arman and one not, who are both wrestling with doubts, questions, and faith. Both Lovell and Mandzee felt relatable and I genuinely rooted for them. The author beautifully wove the truth of the Bible into the story without becoming preachy. Rather, it felt natural to discover what Mandzee was learning, and see how it has the power to affect and change lives. There's a lot of darkness in this story. At times it was hard to keep going because there's an ick and creep factor to it. It's the moments when the Light breaks through and you see Arman still at work that pulled it all together for me. I came away from the story so grateful for the love of God towards humanity. And I came away with hope for the world we live in. Well done!
I did receive an eARC of this book from the publisher and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Wow! Amazing imagery, tense magical action, and sweet romantic moments. This makes a compelling tale. All the books in the Blood of Kings: Legends Series are captivating and full of adventure.
In this story, we are taken back to the city of Jaelport, where Mandzee Hamartano is trying to lead her people as best as she can after the long, hard reign of her mother’s tight hand. She knows she needs to show she is capable of being the leader they need, but so many things and individuals are still trying to make her fail. Some to the point of threatening her life. Will she be able to find out who they are, and can she survive?
One person she doesn’t realize can actually help her is someone she thinks is against her, but is he really? Who can she trust?
Lovell doesn’t want to be here, but he knows this is where his King wants him to be, so he’ll do his best to help bring peace to Er’Rets any way he can.
Evil forces are against them, but can the two find support in each other before it’s too late?
The series has taken me to a whole new world, and I don’t want to leave!
I truly enjoyed this book! It was the kind of book that held me and wouldn’t let me go. As I read, I found myself wanting to keep reading. From the cover to the last page, the book is packed with colorful images and engaging dialogue.
If you want to get lost in a magical world that will make your heart pound and you find it hard to breathe, then this is the book for you. I must warn you, once you start, you might not want to put it down until you finish the whole book!
I highly recommend you pick this book up!
In this story, we are taken back to the city of Jaelport, where Mandzee Hamartano is trying to lead her people as best as she can after the long, hard reign of her mother’s tight hand. She knows she needs to show she is capable of being the leader they need, but so many things and individuals are still trying to make her fail. Some to the point of threatening her life. Will she be able to find out who they are, and can she survive?
One person she doesn’t realize can actually help her is someone she thinks is against her, but is he really? Who can she trust?
Lovell doesn’t want to be here, but he knows this is where his King wants him to be, so he’ll do his best to help bring peace to Er’Rets any way he can.
Evil forces are against them, but can the two find support in each other before it’s too late?
The series has taken me to a whole new world, and I don’t want to leave!
I truly enjoyed this book! It was the kind of book that held me and wouldn’t let me go. As I read, I found myself wanting to keep reading. From the cover to the last page, the book is packed with colorful images and engaging dialogue.
If you want to get lost in a magical world that will make your heart pound and you find it hard to breathe, then this is the book for you. I must warn you, once you start, you might not want to put it down until you finish the whole book!
I highly recommend you pick this book up!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Mandzee and Lovell make a sizzling duo!
I remember reading about Mandzee in the previous book and I wasn't sure what to think about her. To be honest, I, like Lovell, naturally assumed the Jaelportian women couldn't be trusted. However, after reading Mandzee and getting to know her, my heart softened toward a woman who was forced to be strong and calloused because of her society. The story develops as Mandzee tries to establish her authority as Queen, unable to trust anyone. Lovell also slowly develops an attraction to Mandzee and tries to protect her. As they fall in love, the mystery of who is trying to sabotage Mandzee's rule deepens and intensifies. It's an intense, page turning romance that reminded me why I loved Kelly's first collaboration with Jill. I enjoyed this book so much and I can't reveal anymore without spoilers. All I will say is that it's definitely worth reading! Christian themes and messages are woven throughout.
Content Warnings:
Semi descriptive kissing, spells and witchcraft, PG-13 level violence
I remember reading about Mandzee in the previous book and I wasn't sure what to think about her. To be honest, I, like Lovell, naturally assumed the Jaelportian women couldn't be trusted. However, after reading Mandzee and getting to know her, my heart softened toward a woman who was forced to be strong and calloused because of her society. The story develops as Mandzee tries to establish her authority as Queen, unable to trust anyone. Lovell also slowly develops an attraction to Mandzee and tries to protect her. As they fall in love, the mystery of who is trying to sabotage Mandzee's rule deepens and intensifies. It's an intense, page turning romance that reminded me why I loved Kelly's first collaboration with Jill. I enjoyed this book so much and I can't reveal anymore without spoilers. All I will say is that it's definitely worth reading! Christian themes and messages are woven throughout.
Content Warnings:
Semi descriptive kissing, spells and witchcraft, PG-13 level violence
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
In previous Blood of Kings spies books, I perceived Lovell Dunn and Mandzee Harmartano as villains, or at least characters I wouldn’t follow. Jill Williamson and Kelly Fernlake’s new book, Queen of Reckoning, opens in Mandzee’s point of view as she awaits her coronation as Queen of Jaelport. I chose to keep reading to see how the authors would portray these two main characters as heroes. The story quickly engaged me, setting the scene and encouraging me to be sympathetic to Lovell’s fading eyesight and orders from the king. Mandzee is also a likeable character, with trouble not of her own making following her at every turn. We have further reason to cheer for these characters when Lovell presents Mandzee with the king’s gift, the Book of Arman. Mandzee agrees to read some, and bright hope is infused into a world filled with dark magic. Queen of Reckoning invites readers to read, savor, share, and rejoice in its hope.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
OH!MY!WORD! Williamson and Fernlake have crafted an exquisite masterpiece! I was immediately immersed into the drama. Twists and turns kept me turning the pages. The battles are epic. The slow-burn romance is delicious! These characters will linger long after turning the final page.
Recommend to readers who enjoy fantasy.
DISCLAIMER: I received an advanced copy from the author. I am not required to write positive reviews. I received no monetary compensation. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Recommend to readers who enjoy fantasy.
DISCLAIMER: I received an advanced copy from the author. I am not required to write positive reviews. I received no monetary compensation. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I've wanted Jaelport to find the light since visiting there in the original Blood of Kings series.
Now they have a chance to be ruled by a queen who puts her people above herself. Mandzee is a healer, not a fighter, but she's going to have to fight for her throne.
This book explored the spiritual battle that's "behind the scenes" in what appears to be "magic" to others.
Lovell and Mandzee are likable characters and it was easy to root for them. Neither of them get an easy path to growth.
This is a page-turner and will keep you guessing about the "traitors" until the end.
Now they have a chance to be ruled by a queen who puts her people above herself. Mandzee is a healer, not a fighter, but she's going to have to fight for her throne.
This book explored the spiritual battle that's "behind the scenes" in what appears to be "magic" to others.
Lovell and Mandzee are likable characters and it was easy to root for them. Neither of them get an easy path to growth.
This is a page-turner and will keep you guessing about the "traitors" until the end.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Queen of Reckoning was an enthralling romantasy that has faith, enemies-to-more, forced proximity between a queen and an envoy, and a tournament with suspicious incidents and deaths. Who can be trusted? Who is behind the incidents at the tournament and why? The plot was engaging, drawing me straight into the story, and I couldn't put this novel down. I had to see how it all ended.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
A fantastic enemies to lovers romantasy! A slow burn romance with all the tension!
I received an ARC from the publisher and all opinions are my own.
I received an ARC from the publisher and all opinions are my own.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews