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The Shrouded Forest #1
Crown of the Forsaken Heir
When Cecelia is unexpectedly named Heir of the Shrouded Forest instead of her twin brother, her life is destroyed overnight.
The inheritance binds her to a rare and corrupted magic feared by even the divine. When her furious father murders her mate in protest, Cecelia braces for death.
Instead, she’s forced to survive.
Thrust into the heart of a brutal power struggle between warring realms, Cecelia becomes a target for both sides. Desperate to sever her connection to the forest before it consumes her completely, she reluctantly allies herself with Prince Myrad and his loyal bloodsworn guards. But the prince's help comes at a cost, and fate seems determined to entangle them further.
As divine forces close in, Cecelia finds herself caught in a centuries-old conflict that threatens far more than her own survival. Torn between duty and desire, she begins to fall for a quiet scholar harboring secrets of his own. But in a world where death is never far, and the gods are always watching, Cecelia must decide what she’s willing to sacrifice to reclaim control of her life and avenge her mate.
The inheritance binds her to a rare and corrupted magic feared by even the divine. When her furious father murders her mate in protest, Cecelia braces for death.
Instead, she’s forced to survive.
Thrust into the heart of a brutal power struggle between warring realms, Cecelia becomes a target for both sides. Desperate to sever her connection to the forest before it consumes her completely, she reluctantly allies herself with Prince Myrad and his loyal bloodsworn guards. But the prince's help comes at a cost, and fate seems determined to entangle them further.
As divine forces close in, Cecelia finds herself caught in a centuries-old conflict that threatens far more than her own survival. Torn between duty and desire, she begins to fall for a quiet scholar harboring secrets of his own. But in a world where death is never far, and the gods are always watching, Cecelia must decide what she’s willing to sacrifice to reclaim control of her life and avenge her mate.
372 pages, ebook
First published August 17, 2026
About the author
Kris Rose
1 book89 followersKris Rose writes gothic romantic fantasy filled with cursed lands, bad choices, love that ruins everything, and the women that burn it all down.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews
August 14, 2026
This book was made available to me by NetGalley and Kris Rose.
Crown of the Forsaken Heir pulled me in with a dark fantasy world full of dangerous magic, political power struggles, gods, and plenty of secrets. Cecelia gets thrown into a life she never asked for, and watching her struggle with grief while slowly discovering what she’s capable of made her an easy character to root for.
I really enjoyed the world-building and the corrupted forest magic. There’s a lot going on, but it kept me curious about what was coming next. The story also has plenty of action, twists, and complicated relationships that kept things moving.
The romance adds another layer to the story, especially with Cecelia surrounded by several interesting characters and questionable alliances. I did feel like some parts could have used a little more depth, but overall, I had a good time with this one.
A solid four-star romantasy with a strong heroine, dark magic, plenty of chaos, and enough unanswered questions to make me interested in seeing where the series goes next.
Crown of the Forsaken Heir pulled me in with a dark fantasy world full of dangerous magic, political power struggles, gods, and plenty of secrets. Cecelia gets thrown into a life she never asked for, and watching her struggle with grief while slowly discovering what she’s capable of made her an easy character to root for.
I really enjoyed the world-building and the corrupted forest magic. There’s a lot going on, but it kept me curious about what was coming next. The story also has plenty of action, twists, and complicated relationships that kept things moving.
The romance adds another layer to the story, especially with Cecelia surrounded by several interesting characters and questionable alliances. I did feel like some parts could have used a little more depth, but overall, I had a good time with this one.
A solid four-star romantasy with a strong heroine, dark magic, plenty of chaos, and enough unanswered questions to make me interested in seeing where the series goes next.
July 22, 2026
I first and foremost want to point out that I did not know that AI was used to create character art and from what I can tell the cover as well until after I started reading this book.
With this in mind though I wanted to give the benefit of the doubt because this book sounded really interesting from the blurb. Unfortunately, this was not a good read.
To start off with the world building was very confusing. The settings other than the Forest were described very vaguely which made it difficult to envision where the main character Cecilia was. The magic system was not explained at any point in the book and random creatures would pop up and be described as “dangerous” without further explanation.
As for the fmc, Cecilia is supposed to be this awesome woman who can fend for herself/ finds herself (according to the blurb). Neither happened. The only thing that happened was her gaining magic that she had no idea how to control (which can be an interesting plot point if done correctly) and was whining the whole time. The other issue I have is how EVERYONE wanted her to be their wife. She had a mate, which wad killed, forced to transfer the mating bond to a close relative and then everyone after that decided they wanted her. She got married twice in this book. Which I still don’t understand how that happened.
The actual plot though could’ve been interesting. It was honestly the only thing that held my attention. It most definitely needs some work but honestly it was the best part about this whole book. I also think if it was long and more planned out and edited this would make for more of an interesting read.
Overall though I don’t recommend reading this book.
With this in mind though I wanted to give the benefit of the doubt because this book sounded really interesting from the blurb. Unfortunately, this was not a good read.
To start off with the world building was very confusing. The settings other than the Forest were described very vaguely which made it difficult to envision where the main character Cecilia was. The magic system was not explained at any point in the book and random creatures would pop up and be described as “dangerous” without further explanation.
As for the fmc, Cecilia is supposed to be this awesome woman who can fend for herself/ finds herself (according to the blurb). Neither happened. The only thing that happened was her gaining magic that she had no idea how to control (which can be an interesting plot point if done correctly) and was whining the whole time. The other issue I have is how EVERYONE wanted her to be their wife. She had a mate, which wad killed, forced to transfer the mating bond to a close relative and then everyone after that decided they wanted her. She got married twice in this book. Which I still don’t understand how that happened.
The actual plot though could’ve been interesting. It was honestly the only thing that held my attention. It most definitely needs some work but honestly it was the best part about this whole book. I also think if it was long and more planned out and edited this would make for more of an interesting read.
Overall though I don’t recommend reading this book.
June 28, 2026
Advanced copy received from the author.
That was a wild ride and I enjoyed every page! I was in a reading slump-DNFing several books before but this one sucked me in and wouldn’t let go. The twists and turns had me at the edge of my seat not knowing what to expect!
I wasn’t sure where the story would go with her mate being killed at the beginning. However, I know who I want her love interest (or interests🖤) to be but I have no idea at this point.
This world is large but the author did a great job at world building and explaining the magic. Maps are one my favorite parts of a book and this one is very detailed and helpful in understanding the world.
I enjoyed this book so much and need book 2 in my hands asap!
That was a wild ride and I enjoyed every page! I was in a reading slump-DNFing several books before but this one sucked me in and wouldn’t let go. The twists and turns had me at the edge of my seat not knowing what to expect!
I wasn’t sure where the story would go with her mate being killed at the beginning. However, I know who I want her love interest (or interests🖤) to be but I have no idea at this point.
This world is large but the author did a great job at world building and explaining the magic. Maps are one my favorite parts of a book and this one is very detailed and helpful in understanding the world.
I enjoyed this book so much and need book 2 in my hands asap!
August 20, 2026
thank you Kris Rose for sending me the ARC.
this was an enjoyable read with an interesting world. the corrupted forest, different portals and warring realms made for a unique and immersive setting. Cecelia is thrown into a life she never asked for after a devastating loss and watching her fight through her grief while navigating a brutal power struggle was hard, i really felt for her throughout. the dynamic between her and all the men in her life was entertaining and the romance had enough slow burn to keep me engaged. that said the magic system and world building got a little confusing in parts and the storyline felt messy at times. i wished the characters had been given a little more depth. overall still an enjoyable read and a lot of potential for where the series goes next.
this was an enjoyable read with an interesting world. the corrupted forest, different portals and warring realms made for a unique and immersive setting. Cecelia is thrown into a life she never asked for after a devastating loss and watching her fight through her grief while navigating a brutal power struggle was hard, i really felt for her throughout. the dynamic between her and all the men in her life was entertaining and the romance had enough slow burn to keep me engaged. that said the magic system and world building got a little confusing in parts and the storyline felt messy at times. i wished the characters had been given a little more depth. overall still an enjoyable read and a lot of potential for where the series goes next.
August 1, 2026
OKAY where do we even start here. While this book had a TON of promise, it also was all over the place. Like that meme where the lines all intersect and you still are left wondering what happened- that’s this book. 🫠
Our FMC was supposed to be this strong lady and quite frankly I was annoyed of her by 30% of this book. Not only does she not understand how to not run towards danger, she is annoyingly whiny.
The plot. How do seven men all want you after seeing you one time? Spice level 🌶️ 1/5. Mari mg bonds. Soul mates. Divine. Monsters. Fae of sorts. Mortals. Enemy to lovers-ish. There are waaaayyy to many themes in this book trying to compete and it takes away from the plot and story. I think if there was only one or two things going on it would’ve been easier to follow and more impactful.
The world building was negligent and so all over the place (same with the beasts and monsters) that you read it and then wondered what the heck just happened or where you were in the realm.
This book HAD SO MUCH POTENTIAL to be great but ultimately was so over chaotic it falls flat. Will not continue reading the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Our FMC was supposed to be this strong lady and quite frankly I was annoyed of her by 30% of this book. Not only does she not understand how to not run towards danger, she is annoyingly whiny.
The plot. How do seven men all want you after seeing you one time? Spice level 🌶️ 1/5. Mari mg bonds. Soul mates. Divine. Monsters. Fae of sorts. Mortals. Enemy to lovers-ish. There are waaaayyy to many themes in this book trying to compete and it takes away from the plot and story. I think if there was only one or two things going on it would’ve been easier to follow and more impactful.
The world building was negligent and so all over the place (same with the beasts and monsters) that you read it and then wondered what the heck just happened or where you were in the realm.
This book HAD SO MUCH POTENTIAL to be great but ultimately was so over chaotic it falls flat. Will not continue reading the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 5, 2026
I had high expectation a for this book when I first learned about it. I love a good gothic story full of magic, gods, and creatures. Unfortunately this book didn’t suit me.
The story starts fast, meeting almost a dozen characters. The plot leads to a quest to find a blood relative of the FMCs recently murdered mate, which they need in order to save her from following him to the afterlife. Much like the rush of introductions, the plot itself is twisty and adds another layer to a confusing start. Needless to say, I felt overwhelmed.
As the story moves forward I struggled. Magic felt too convenient. Solutions to obstacles came to easy. I wasn’t sure where the story was going or why. I was looking for more depth, more emotion, and a more detailed plot. I think the pacing was too fast for me. Many of the conversations felt more like reading a transcript rather than a conversation.
Thierry was a bright spot in the story. He was the best, and most consistent character throughout. There was a lot of potential with the gods in the story. But I was left wanting more.
If you like a fast paced book, with a lot of action and a lot of characters, you may enjoy this story.
The story starts fast, meeting almost a dozen characters. The plot leads to a quest to find a blood relative of the FMCs recently murdered mate, which they need in order to save her from following him to the afterlife. Much like the rush of introductions, the plot itself is twisty and adds another layer to a confusing start. Needless to say, I felt overwhelmed.
As the story moves forward I struggled. Magic felt too convenient. Solutions to obstacles came to easy. I wasn’t sure where the story was going or why. I was looking for more depth, more emotion, and a more detailed plot. I think the pacing was too fast for me. Many of the conversations felt more like reading a transcript rather than a conversation.
Thierry was a bright spot in the story. He was the best, and most consistent character throughout. There was a lot of potential with the gods in the story. But I was left wanting more.
If you like a fast paced book, with a lot of action and a lot of characters, you may enjoy this story.
July 27, 2026
*******
Update: After posting my review, I learned that the author’s official promotional materials include AI-generated artwork. Had I known this before requesting the book, I personally would have chosen not to request it, as I prefer to support books that commission human artists for their promotional materials. My rating still reflects my experience with the writing itself, but I wanted to be transparent because this is something I consider when deciding which books to support.
********
This book starts with a premise that pulled me in immediately. Killing off Cecilia’s mate within the opening chapters? Intriguing. The cast also deserves a mention. Despite the number of characters introduced, each one felt distinct and balanced, which is no small feat in a fantasy with so many moving pieces.
The overall concept of this book has my name written all over it: magic, gods, fated mates, and an ancient forest at the heart of the story. On paper, it checks so many of the boxes I naturally gravitate toward.
Where I struggled was primarily with the pacing and flow. I often felt like the story returned to the same locations and emotional beats in quick succession, which made certain sections feel more repetitive than impactful. While I loved the idea of the gods and the role they were meant to play, I personally found myself wanting a deeper understanding of their purpose and how they fit into the larger world. It felt like there was more to explore there than this first installment had time to offer.
The dialogue was another area where my experience varied. There were moments where conversations flowed naturally and the characters felt incredibly believable, but there were also scenes where the dialogue felt a bit repetitive, revisiting the same ideas multiple times.
The male cast was a bit more hit or miss for me. Thierry was easily my favorite, and I found myself wishing we spent more time with characters like him. Cecilia also spent much of the story reacting to the decisions of those around her, which left me wanting to see her exercise more agency over the direction of her own story. I suspect this may be part of a larger character arc in future books, but in this installment it occasionally slowed the momentum for me.
That said, I do think there are glimpses of something really special here. The descriptions of the forest and surrounding world are often beautiful, and the foundation for an interesting fantasy series is certainly present. While this one didn’t fully come together for me, I can absolutely see readers who enjoy atmospheric fantasy, gods, magic, and fated mates finding plenty to love here.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advance copy in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Update: After posting my review, I learned that the author’s official promotional materials include AI-generated artwork. Had I known this before requesting the book, I personally would have chosen not to request it, as I prefer to support books that commission human artists for their promotional materials. My rating still reflects my experience with the writing itself, but I wanted to be transparent because this is something I consider when deciding which books to support.
********
This book starts with a premise that pulled me in immediately. Killing off Cecilia’s mate within the opening chapters? Intriguing. The cast also deserves a mention. Despite the number of characters introduced, each one felt distinct and balanced, which is no small feat in a fantasy with so many moving pieces.
The overall concept of this book has my name written all over it: magic, gods, fated mates, and an ancient forest at the heart of the story. On paper, it checks so many of the boxes I naturally gravitate toward.
Where I struggled was primarily with the pacing and flow. I often felt like the story returned to the same locations and emotional beats in quick succession, which made certain sections feel more repetitive than impactful. While I loved the idea of the gods and the role they were meant to play, I personally found myself wanting a deeper understanding of their purpose and how they fit into the larger world. It felt like there was more to explore there than this first installment had time to offer.
The dialogue was another area where my experience varied. There were moments where conversations flowed naturally and the characters felt incredibly believable, but there were also scenes where the dialogue felt a bit repetitive, revisiting the same ideas multiple times.
The male cast was a bit more hit or miss for me. Thierry was easily my favorite, and I found myself wishing we spent more time with characters like him. Cecilia also spent much of the story reacting to the decisions of those around her, which left me wanting to see her exercise more agency over the direction of her own story. I suspect this may be part of a larger character arc in future books, but in this installment it occasionally slowed the momentum for me.
That said, I do think there are glimpses of something really special here. The descriptions of the forest and surrounding world are often beautiful, and the foundation for an interesting fantasy series is certainly present. While this one didn’t fully come together for me, I can absolutely see readers who enjoy atmospheric fantasy, gods, magic, and fated mates finding plenty to love here.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advance copy in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 12, 2026
Cecelia watches as her father murders her mate right in front of her. Her father is the epitome of evil, but he is too cowardly to end her himself. Instead, by killing her mate, it ensures that she will die with a few weeks. Blood mates cannot live without the other. Dying and grieving, her friends and family decide they must try to save Cecelia by breaking the mate bond. As if loosing her mate was not enough, Cecelia learns her brother, Edwin, heir to the throne has been replaced by the Shrouded Forest. The Shrouded Forest has named her as the heir imbuing her with dark forest magic. Her father wants her dead, she’s hiding her magic from her brother, her mate has been killed, and now the Divine want to play with her future. Death would be so easy, except Death won’t let her die. Cecelia’s world has fallen apart in a matter of days, and everyone has a motive. What’s a girl to do?
This was a wild ride from the first few pages. Nothing was predictable! There were so many twists and turns I had whiplash. This story has a lot of world building with a reliance on regional magic systems that makes it very unique. The political intrigue between the mortal and immortal realm was interesting. There are many instances of traveling between regions and realms and they each are unique and detailed.
The biggest struggle for me was the romantic aspect of the story. The FMC struggles to make her mind up with men, often feeling confused about her feelings and reverting to grief over the death of her mate. I found it distracting that almost every male she encountered somehow had an interest in her, many of whom formed a deep loyalty to her after having just met her. A majority of the book played with these different romance dynamics and her inability to decide what she wants to complicate the plot. This did not deter from the enjoyment of the book, but it made it difficult to form attachments to any male character.
This is a story of grief and loss. It’s a story of how a world can be torn completely apart with the death of a loved one. This story is very fast-paced, dark, and full of heartbreak. The FMC’s struggles and setbacks will have you pushing for her as she finds her inner strength and learns to fight for herself.
Thank you to the author, Kris Rose, for the ARC copy in return for my honest review.
This was a wild ride from the first few pages. Nothing was predictable! There were so many twists and turns I had whiplash. This story has a lot of world building with a reliance on regional magic systems that makes it very unique. The political intrigue between the mortal and immortal realm was interesting. There are many instances of traveling between regions and realms and they each are unique and detailed.
The biggest struggle for me was the romantic aspect of the story. The FMC struggles to make her mind up with men, often feeling confused about her feelings and reverting to grief over the death of her mate. I found it distracting that almost every male she encountered somehow had an interest in her, many of whom formed a deep loyalty to her after having just met her. A majority of the book played with these different romance dynamics and her inability to decide what she wants to complicate the plot. This did not deter from the enjoyment of the book, but it made it difficult to form attachments to any male character.
This is a story of grief and loss. It’s a story of how a world can be torn completely apart with the death of a loved one. This story is very fast-paced, dark, and full of heartbreak. The FMC’s struggles and setbacks will have you pushing for her as she finds her inner strength and learns to fight for herself.
Thank you to the author, Kris Rose, for the ARC copy in return for my honest review.
July 30, 2026
First off, I want to disclose that I received a free copy of this book via BookSprout and am leaving an honest review willingly.
The premise was so promising. I love a strong FMC, and losing a blood mate right off the bat is such a devastating catalyst ! I also love the idea of different Gods and their unique characteristics. Plus, a dark and powerful forest ?! Yes please !
However, I struggled a lot with Cecilia. We’re constantly pulled back to Shay’s death, even though she ends up wanting almost every guy she meets (who all end up having an intense allegiance to her, for some reason). Most of the decisions made aren’t of her own free will, but made FOR her. We don’t get very many answers as to her power and she doesn’t really hone it throughout the story. It mainly shows up due to feminine rage, which is also very powerful and I think a lot of women can relate. There isn’t enough detail in the world building, or character development for my taste. Due to a lot of the characters seeming flat, I never ended up feeling a bond to any of them.
I did adore Thierry though ! He was a light in the story and in Cecilia’s life, which I would love to see more of him. Awkward vibes in some conversations, like it didn’t flow naturally, but otherwise he was an adorable character. I think if the story went deeper, and the characters were built up to be deep and meaningful, I could see it being really beautiful.
The premise was so promising. I love a strong FMC, and losing a blood mate right off the bat is such a devastating catalyst ! I also love the idea of different Gods and their unique characteristics. Plus, a dark and powerful forest ?! Yes please !
However, I struggled a lot with Cecilia. We’re constantly pulled back to Shay’s death, even though she ends up wanting almost every guy she meets (who all end up having an intense allegiance to her, for some reason). Most of the decisions made aren’t of her own free will, but made FOR her. We don’t get very many answers as to her power and she doesn’t really hone it throughout the story. It mainly shows up due to feminine rage, which is also very powerful and I think a lot of women can relate. There isn’t enough detail in the world building, or character development for my taste. Due to a lot of the characters seeming flat, I never ended up feeling a bond to any of them.
I did adore Thierry though ! He was a light in the story and in Cecilia’s life, which I would love to see more of him. Awkward vibes in some conversations, like it didn’t flow naturally, but otherwise he was an adorable character. I think if the story went deeper, and the characters were built up to be deep and meaningful, I could see it being really beautiful.
August 20, 2026
I received the ARC of Crown of the Forsaken Heir from NetGalley in exchange for my review.
I struggled with this book. It had a very interesting concept, but the plot and setting were all over the place. The FMC is constantly attacked and abused, even by her supposed love interest (or one of them). There was nothing romantic about this book - even her friendships are weird. She was a human punching bag who would get magically healed. I really didn't understand why she didn't just use her powers, take control of her life, and leave everyone. She deserved more than what the story gave her.
I struggled with this book. It had a very interesting concept, but the plot and setting were all over the place. The FMC is constantly attacked and abused, even by her supposed love interest (or one of them). There was nothing romantic about this book - even her friendships are weird. She was a human punching bag who would get magically healed. I really didn't understand why she didn't just use her powers, take control of her life, and leave everyone. She deserved more than what the story gave her.
July 6, 2026
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The magic system was unique, but I just couldn't stand how the FMC's feelings were as flighty as a hummingbird.....or maybe more like a bee trying to pollinate as many flowers as possible! 🤔 She was all over the place with the pining over a different man IMMEDIATELY after schmoozing another one.
The magic system was unique, but I just couldn't stand how the FMC's feelings were as flighty as a hummingbird.....or maybe more like a bee trying to pollinate as many flowers as possible! 🤔 She was all over the place with the pining over a different man IMMEDIATELY after schmoozing another one.
August 20, 2026
Advanced copy received from the author
3.75/5 stars (rounded up to 4).
I really enjoyed this book. For the most part, the suspense was maintained well and kept me engaged throughout the story. There were a few moments where the pace slowed down and not much of interest was happening, but overall it remained exciting and kept me wanting to know what would happen next.
One thing I struggled with at times was the FMC’s inability to make up her mind about her love interest(s). It often felt like every man she met immediately became a potential romantic interest, and she developed feelings for all of them. She just couldn’t seem to make a choice, which became a little frustrating.
That said, the story was easy to follow, well-written, and full of suspense. That’s why I’m giving it 3.75 stars, rounded up to 4.
3.75/5 stars (rounded up to 4).
I really enjoyed this book. For the most part, the suspense was maintained well and kept me engaged throughout the story. There were a few moments where the pace slowed down and not much of interest was happening, but overall it remained exciting and kept me wanting to know what would happen next.
One thing I struggled with at times was the FMC’s inability to make up her mind about her love interest(s). It often felt like every man she met immediately became a potential romantic interest, and she developed feelings for all of them. She just couldn’t seem to make a choice, which became a little frustrating.
That said, the story was easy to follow, well-written, and full of suspense. That’s why I’m giving it 3.75 stars, rounded up to 4.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This book showed up with grief, chaos, betrayal, gods playing games and enough drama to make me question why these characters can’t just sit down for five minutes and have a normal conversation.
Cecelia’s journey was the part that really got my attention. This poor girl cannot catch a break. She starts this story carrying heartbreak, loss and a whole world that seems determined to test how much one person can handle before snapping. Watching her stumble through the pain, anger and confusion while trying to figure out who she is was one of my favorite parts. She’s not a “perfect chosen one” who wakes up knowing exactly what to do. She’s hurt, she’s angry, she’s complicated and she’s trying to survive in a world that keeps throwing impossible choices at her.
The world building was honestly one of the highlights for me. We have magic, gods, kingdoms fighting for power, dangerous forests, secrets everywhere and enough political chaos to keep my little fantasy loving brain entertained. The Shrouded Forest especially gave me that creepy, mysterious energy. The magic feels old, powerful and like there is still so much left to uncover.
The side characters were another thing I enjoyed. Thierry definitely caught my attention and I found myself wanting more moments with him. The different personalities throughout Cecelia’s journey helped keep the story interesting and the banter was a nice break from all the emotional damage this book casually hands out. Because apparently fictional characters have decided their full time job is making readers stressed and yelling at their books.
Now, the romance… this was where I had some mixed feelings. Cecelia is dealing with a lot emotionally and because of the importance of her past bond, some of the romantic connections felt complicated for me. There were moments where I needed a little more time to understand her feelings and where things were heading. I was still invested, but my reader brain definitely had a few “wait… hold on, let me process this” moments.
And that ending? Kris Rose really said “You thought you knew where this was going? Cute.” Without spoiling anything, the final chapters felt like Cecelia stepping into a completely different part of her journey. After everything she’s survived, there’s a shift, a spark of strength, a new challenge ahead and the feeling that the real battle is only beginning. I finished the last pages with that “okay, but I need the next book now” feeling.
This was a dark, dramatic, messy (in the best way), magic filled fantasy adventure. It gave me powerful heroine energy, complicated relationships, dangerous secrets and a world I want to explore more. It wasn’t a flawless read for me, but it was definitely entertaining and Cecelia’s story has me curious about what chaos comes next.
So why wasn’t this a 5 star read for me? Honestly, it came down to a few things that kept me from fully falling into the obsession category. The romance was the biggest one, I understood what the story was trying to do, but some connections moved faster than my little reader heart could process. I also wanted a bit more clarity around the gods and some of the world’s deeper mysteries. There’s so much potential here and I can see the bigger picture the author is building, but I needed just a little more emotional connection and development.
Tropes:
✨ Dark fantasy
✨ Romantasy
✨ Fated/blood mates
✨ Forced destiny
✨ Strong heroine discovering her power
✨ Found family
✨ Gods and divine powers
✨ Political intrigue
✨ Magic kingdoms
✨ Dangerous forests
✨ Shifting alliances
✨ Revenge journey
A huge thank you to Kris Rose for allowing me to read Crown of the Forsaken Heir before its release day through NetGalley. I’m grateful for the chance to experience Cecelia’s story early and I can’t wait to see where this wild, magical world goes next.
Cecelia’s journey was the part that really got my attention. This poor girl cannot catch a break. She starts this story carrying heartbreak, loss and a whole world that seems determined to test how much one person can handle before snapping. Watching her stumble through the pain, anger and confusion while trying to figure out who she is was one of my favorite parts. She’s not a “perfect chosen one” who wakes up knowing exactly what to do. She’s hurt, she’s angry, she’s complicated and she’s trying to survive in a world that keeps throwing impossible choices at her.
The world building was honestly one of the highlights for me. We have magic, gods, kingdoms fighting for power, dangerous forests, secrets everywhere and enough political chaos to keep my little fantasy loving brain entertained. The Shrouded Forest especially gave me that creepy, mysterious energy. The magic feels old, powerful and like there is still so much left to uncover.
The side characters were another thing I enjoyed. Thierry definitely caught my attention and I found myself wanting more moments with him. The different personalities throughout Cecelia’s journey helped keep the story interesting and the banter was a nice break from all the emotional damage this book casually hands out. Because apparently fictional characters have decided their full time job is making readers stressed and yelling at their books.
Now, the romance… this was where I had some mixed feelings. Cecelia is dealing with a lot emotionally and because of the importance of her past bond, some of the romantic connections felt complicated for me. There were moments where I needed a little more time to understand her feelings and where things were heading. I was still invested, but my reader brain definitely had a few “wait… hold on, let me process this” moments.
And that ending? Kris Rose really said “You thought you knew where this was going? Cute.” Without spoiling anything, the final chapters felt like Cecelia stepping into a completely different part of her journey. After everything she’s survived, there’s a shift, a spark of strength, a new challenge ahead and the feeling that the real battle is only beginning. I finished the last pages with that “okay, but I need the next book now” feeling.
This was a dark, dramatic, messy (in the best way), magic filled fantasy adventure. It gave me powerful heroine energy, complicated relationships, dangerous secrets and a world I want to explore more. It wasn’t a flawless read for me, but it was definitely entertaining and Cecelia’s story has me curious about what chaos comes next.
So why wasn’t this a 5 star read for me? Honestly, it came down to a few things that kept me from fully falling into the obsession category. The romance was the biggest one, I understood what the story was trying to do, but some connections moved faster than my little reader heart could process. I also wanted a bit more clarity around the gods and some of the world’s deeper mysteries. There’s so much potential here and I can see the bigger picture the author is building, but I needed just a little more emotional connection and development.
Tropes:
✨ Dark fantasy
✨ Romantasy
✨ Fated/blood mates
✨ Forced destiny
✨ Strong heroine discovering her power
✨ Found family
✨ Gods and divine powers
✨ Political intrigue
✨ Magic kingdoms
✨ Dangerous forests
✨ Shifting alliances
✨ Revenge journey
A huge thank you to Kris Rose for allowing me to read Crown of the Forsaken Heir before its release day through NetGalley. I’m grateful for the chance to experience Cecelia’s story early and I can’t wait to see where this wild, magical world goes next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Some books slowly pull you in… and then suddenly refuse to let go. Crown of the Forsaken Heir was exactly that experience for me.
I’ll admit that at the very beginning I wondered how the emotional pacing would unfold. Cecelia is thrown into an almost relentless series of devastating events, and I found myself hoping the emotional weight would have room to breathe. But the farther I read, the more completely invested I became. Instead of feeling overwhelmed, I became utterly locked into her journey. Every heartbreak, every impossible choice, and every hard-earned moment of resilience only made me more determined to see her succeed.
Cecelia is such a compelling protagonist. What I loved most wasn’t that she always had the answers—it was her spirit. Watching her navigate grief, uncertainty, responsibility, and the terrifying discovery of her own strength made her feel incredibly human. Her growth feels earned, and by the end I was completely rooting for her.
The supporting cast is equally fascinating. I absolutely adored Thierry (who deserves to be protected at all costs), found myself endlessly intrigued by Myrad despite wanting to bitch slap him more than once, and was a fan of team Xavy right from the start. I loved how every interaction seemed to reveal another hidden layer to the people surrounding Cecelia. One of my favorite aspects of this story is that I genuinely don’t know who I fully trust anymore—and I mean that as the highest compliment. Allegiances shift, motivations evolve, and just when I think I’ve figured someone out, Kris Rose manages to make me question everything all over again.
The world-building is another standout. I was genuinely impressed by the scope of the mythology woven throughout the story. Rather than simply borrowing familiar myths, the author builds something that feels fresh while rewarding readers with clever nods and Easter eggs inspired by ancient legends. Those little moments of recognition were so much fun.
The magic system, the politics, the different realms, and the history all hint at something far larger than what’s revealed in this first installment. I never felt like I was reading a world built just for one book—it feels like stepping into a living history with countless stories still waiting to unfold.
By the end, I found myself thinking less about what had happened and more about what will happen next. I can’t wait to see how Cecelia grows into her power, learns to trust herself, and continues navigating the conflict between duty, destiny, and her own heart. And after everything this cast put me through, I desperately need to know which relationships will deepen, which ones will shatter, and which unexpected alliances are still waiting around the corner.
If you enjoy epic fantasy filled with mythology, political intrigue, emotional character growth, morally complex characters, shifting loyalties, and a heroine whose greatest strength may be her resilience, Crown of the Forsaken Heir is absolutely worth picking up.
I, for one, will be anxiously waiting for Book Two.
I’ll admit that at the very beginning I wondered how the emotional pacing would unfold. Cecelia is thrown into an almost relentless series of devastating events, and I found myself hoping the emotional weight would have room to breathe. But the farther I read, the more completely invested I became. Instead of feeling overwhelmed, I became utterly locked into her journey. Every heartbreak, every impossible choice, and every hard-earned moment of resilience only made me more determined to see her succeed.
Cecelia is such a compelling protagonist. What I loved most wasn’t that she always had the answers—it was her spirit. Watching her navigate grief, uncertainty, responsibility, and the terrifying discovery of her own strength made her feel incredibly human. Her growth feels earned, and by the end I was completely rooting for her.
The supporting cast is equally fascinating. I absolutely adored Thierry (who deserves to be protected at all costs), found myself endlessly intrigued by Myrad despite wanting to bitch slap him more than once, and was a fan of team Xavy right from the start. I loved how every interaction seemed to reveal another hidden layer to the people surrounding Cecelia. One of my favorite aspects of this story is that I genuinely don’t know who I fully trust anymore—and I mean that as the highest compliment. Allegiances shift, motivations evolve, and just when I think I’ve figured someone out, Kris Rose manages to make me question everything all over again.
The world-building is another standout. I was genuinely impressed by the scope of the mythology woven throughout the story. Rather than simply borrowing familiar myths, the author builds something that feels fresh while rewarding readers with clever nods and Easter eggs inspired by ancient legends. Those little moments of recognition were so much fun.
The magic system, the politics, the different realms, and the history all hint at something far larger than what’s revealed in this first installment. I never felt like I was reading a world built just for one book—it feels like stepping into a living history with countless stories still waiting to unfold.
By the end, I found myself thinking less about what had happened and more about what will happen next. I can’t wait to see how Cecelia grows into her power, learns to trust herself, and continues navigating the conflict between duty, destiny, and her own heart. And after everything this cast put me through, I desperately need to know which relationships will deepen, which ones will shatter, and which unexpected alliances are still waiting around the corner.
If you enjoy epic fantasy filled with mythology, political intrigue, emotional character growth, morally complex characters, shifting loyalties, and a heroine whose greatest strength may be her resilience, Crown of the Forsaken Heir is absolutely worth picking up.
I, for one, will be anxiously waiting for Book Two.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
DNF at 35%
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Unfortunately, this was not the book for me, and I decided to stop reading at around 35%.
The premise immediately caught my attention. A heroine bound by a blood-mate bond, a dangerous family history, political intrigue, gods, prophecies, and an enchanted forest all promised a rich fantasy story. I believe the author shows genuine talent and creativity, the plot is deep. I truly believe this could have been developed more and into a fantastic story.
My biggest issue was that the plot consistently moved faster than the characters. The opening chapters introduce a large number of important characters in rapid succession, making it difficult to form connections before major events begin to unfold. Significant moments, including deaths, family revelations, magical bonds, and life-changing decisions, often felt rushed because the emotional aftermath was rarely explored in depth.
The protagonist especially struggled to feel fully realised to me. Despite being placed at the centre of dramatic events, I never gained a strong understanding of her motivations, desires, fears, or internal thought process. Many important decisions seemed to happen without enough insight into how she felt about them, which made it difficult for me to become invested in her journey.
The romance also did not work for me. The dynamic relied heavily on familiar fantasy-romance tropes, but I never felt the chemistry necessary to make the relationship compelling. The banter and tension felt forced rather than naturally developing from the characters themselves.
As the story progressed, I found myself encountering trope after trope without enough character development to support them. By the time a major prophecy was introduced, I felt as though much of the story's direction had already been revealed. Rather than creating intrigue, the prophecy reduced my investment because it seemed to outline future events instead of raising new questions.
Ultimately, this book felt more plot-driven than character-driven, and I needed a stronger emotional connection to the characters to stay engaged. While I can appreciate the ambition of the story and the author's potential, I chose to DNF because I was no longer invested in where the narrative was heading.
Readers who enjoy trope-heavy fantasy romance, destined relationships, prophecies, and fast-moving plots may have a very different experience than I did.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Unfortunately, this was not the book for me, and I decided to stop reading at around 35%.
The premise immediately caught my attention. A heroine bound by a blood-mate bond, a dangerous family history, political intrigue, gods, prophecies, and an enchanted forest all promised a rich fantasy story. I believe the author shows genuine talent and creativity, the plot is deep. I truly believe this could have been developed more and into a fantastic story.
My biggest issue was that the plot consistently moved faster than the characters. The opening chapters introduce a large number of important characters in rapid succession, making it difficult to form connections before major events begin to unfold. Significant moments, including deaths, family revelations, magical bonds, and life-changing decisions, often felt rushed because the emotional aftermath was rarely explored in depth.
The protagonist especially struggled to feel fully realised to me. Despite being placed at the centre of dramatic events, I never gained a strong understanding of her motivations, desires, fears, or internal thought process. Many important decisions seemed to happen without enough insight into how she felt about them, which made it difficult for me to become invested in her journey.
The romance also did not work for me. The dynamic relied heavily on familiar fantasy-romance tropes, but I never felt the chemistry necessary to make the relationship compelling. The banter and tension felt forced rather than naturally developing from the characters themselves.
As the story progressed, I found myself encountering trope after trope without enough character development to support them. By the time a major prophecy was introduced, I felt as though much of the story's direction had already been revealed. Rather than creating intrigue, the prophecy reduced my investment because it seemed to outline future events instead of raising new questions.
Ultimately, this book felt more plot-driven than character-driven, and I needed a stronger emotional connection to the characters to stay engaged. While I can appreciate the ambition of the story and the author's potential, I chose to DNF because I was no longer invested in where the narrative was heading.
Readers who enjoy trope-heavy fantasy romance, destined relationships, prophecies, and fast-moving plots may have a very different experience than I did.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Title: Crown of the Forsaken Heir
Author: Kris Rose
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ / 🌶️🌶️
✨📚 ARC Review 📚 ✨
Thank you to the author for the gifted eARC! My review and thoughts are my own.
Crown of the Forsaken Heir is the debut fantasy story from indie author Kris Rose - available August 17, 2026. It is the first book in the Shrouded Forest series.
The overall elements of the story check off many boxes of things I enjoy and gravitate towards when picking my next read. You've got different magic systems, an enchanted forest, interferinh gods and goddesses, different kingdoms/races, and fated mates.
The elements were there, but I struggled with the execution. I don't mind a fast-paced plot, but the story felt too chaotic. The constant movement of Cecilia, our FMC, from location to locations became repetitive and did not always seem to be necessary to the plot.
The several gods that manipulating rulers and events are interesting- I wish we had more context for their role in the world. Did they help create it, were they placed in charge by a higher power, how many of them are there, etc.
The cast of characters is large, but the personalities feel well defined. It is heavily weighted on the villian side, curious to see if that changes as the series goes on. There are many men circling Cecilia - the only likeable ones are Thierry and Xavy. Everyone else is either neutral or treats Cecilia horribly. Myrad has an uphill (impossible imo) climb to ever redeem himself. I hope Cecilia grows a spine and realizes she deserves better treatment. Towards the end you get a glimpse of Cecilia deciding to fight back against things happening TO her and take some action to make choices for herself.
I see potential in this series - the descriptions of the world are wonderful, and there are so many ways I could see the plot developing. This book lays the ground work for what could be a cool fantasy series. I don't fully understand the forest - like what are the Voice's motives? But the trapped kingdom and forest magic is neat. I will likely read the next book to see the direction the story goes and if my questions get answered.
This was an alright read for me, but I can see plenty of readers enjoying the world building, fast-paced plot, magic system, and different kingdom politics at play in this story.
Author: Kris Rose
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ / 🌶️🌶️
✨📚 ARC Review 📚 ✨
Thank you to the author for the gifted eARC! My review and thoughts are my own.
Crown of the Forsaken Heir is the debut fantasy story from indie author Kris Rose - available August 17, 2026. It is the first book in the Shrouded Forest series.
The overall elements of the story check off many boxes of things I enjoy and gravitate towards when picking my next read. You've got different magic systems, an enchanted forest, interferinh gods and goddesses, different kingdoms/races, and fated mates.
The elements were there, but I struggled with the execution. I don't mind a fast-paced plot, but the story felt too chaotic. The constant movement of Cecilia, our FMC, from location to locations became repetitive and did not always seem to be necessary to the plot.
The several gods that manipulating rulers and events are interesting- I wish we had more context for their role in the world. Did they help create it, were they placed in charge by a higher power, how many of them are there, etc.
The cast of characters is large, but the personalities feel well defined. It is heavily weighted on the villian side, curious to see if that changes as the series goes on. There are many men circling Cecilia - the only likeable ones are Thierry and Xavy. Everyone else is either neutral or treats Cecilia horribly. Myrad has an uphill (impossible imo) climb to ever redeem himself. I hope Cecilia grows a spine and realizes she deserves better treatment. Towards the end you get a glimpse of Cecilia deciding to fight back against things happening TO her and take some action to make choices for herself.
I see potential in this series - the descriptions of the world are wonderful, and there are so many ways I could see the plot developing. This book lays the ground work for what could be a cool fantasy series. I don't fully understand the forest - like what are the Voice's motives? But the trapped kingdom and forest magic is neat. I will likely read the next book to see the direction the story goes and if my questions get answered.
This was an alright read for me, but I can see plenty of readers enjoying the world building, fast-paced plot, magic system, and different kingdom politics at play in this story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Advanced copy received from the author.
This book is everything depressing, dark, and shrouded in death and decay.. which had me intrigued! From the get-go our MFC Cecelia watches her father murder her blood mate literally in front of her, which is ...you know… not great. I guess blood mates die without each other, so she’s basically on a countdown timer while her friends scramble to break the bond before she dies of a broken heart? Then the Shrouded Forest in which her father rules over pulls a “surprise, you’re the heir now,” dumps dark magic in her lap, without killing her father off and not forgetting that her Twin brother is next in line. Therefore, her evil father wants her dead, her magic wants to be dramatic, the Divine (Not really sure what they are) want to meddle, and Death apparently wants to keep her around for entertainment. Talk about a rough week.
This book is a wild ride — So many twists everywhere, zero predictability, and just enough world building to require a magical passport (or in this case magical portals) which make the realms seem large and magical.
My biggest struggles with the book are? Struggle one, Romance. Cecelia’s grief makes her emotionally scramble and I have a hard time understanding how she can have feelings for each man who is kind to her, can we say daddy issues? It doesn't help when every man she meets immediately develops Olympic‑level devotion to her. It’s hard to get attached when the love interests rotate like a carousel. Although, if you combine them all.. that would be an ultimate dream catch. The Second: Cecelia herself. She’s full of rage, sure, but without her magic she’d be one bad day away from becoming a permanently abused victim who can’t see a way out. I’m begging book two to let her unleash that fury, find her voice, and finally stand up to the parade of men trying to hold her down.
Light it up, girlfriend — burn the whole kingdom if you have to.
At its core, this is a story about grief, loss, and clawing your way back from devastation. It’s fast, dark, and full of heartbreak — and you can’t help rooting for Cecelia as she finds her strength and one day her voice!
I appreciate the author Kris Rose allowing me the honor of being one of her ARC's!
This book is everything depressing, dark, and shrouded in death and decay.. which had me intrigued! From the get-go our MFC Cecelia watches her father murder her blood mate literally in front of her, which is ...you know… not great. I guess blood mates die without each other, so she’s basically on a countdown timer while her friends scramble to break the bond before she dies of a broken heart? Then the Shrouded Forest in which her father rules over pulls a “surprise, you’re the heir now,” dumps dark magic in her lap, without killing her father off and not forgetting that her Twin brother is next in line. Therefore, her evil father wants her dead, her magic wants to be dramatic, the Divine (Not really sure what they are) want to meddle, and Death apparently wants to keep her around for entertainment. Talk about a rough week.
This book is a wild ride — So many twists everywhere, zero predictability, and just enough world building to require a magical passport (or in this case magical portals) which make the realms seem large and magical.
My biggest struggles with the book are? Struggle one, Romance. Cecelia’s grief makes her emotionally scramble and I have a hard time understanding how she can have feelings for each man who is kind to her, can we say daddy issues? It doesn't help when every man she meets immediately develops Olympic‑level devotion to her. It’s hard to get attached when the love interests rotate like a carousel. Although, if you combine them all.. that would be an ultimate dream catch. The Second: Cecelia herself. She’s full of rage, sure, but without her magic she’d be one bad day away from becoming a permanently abused victim who can’t see a way out. I’m begging book two to let her unleash that fury, find her voice, and finally stand up to the parade of men trying to hold her down.
Light it up, girlfriend — burn the whole kingdom if you have to.
At its core, this is a story about grief, loss, and clawing your way back from devastation. It’s fast, dark, and full of heartbreak — and you can’t help rooting for Cecelia as she finds her strength and one day her voice!
I appreciate the author Kris Rose allowing me the honor of being one of her ARC's!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was genuinely the biggest whirlwind of a plot that I’ve ever read. It is nonstop action and plot changes from the first page this poor girl is thrown into near death and heartbreak on the first page and it honestly never ends. The setting is very dark and gothic and magic filled and I would have loved more explanation and time describing and building the worlds because it was very intriguing. She is from a shrouded cursed forest but ends up in an enemy ever realm with immortal beings and I lost track of how many times she was stolen or ran back and forth between the different realms. There was so many male characters that wanted her and tried to take her or kill her and I wasn’t sure why if it was just because she was the heir to the forest and got the magic or if there was a bigger reason it just felt like she was always running between the different characters and places and I didn’t know what her ultimate goal was. Her father was evil and at times I didn’t understand why she returned to him. The divinity is also heavily involved in the plot and I was really curious about them but also unsure what their ultimate attraction to Cecilia was either.
I would classify this as a dark fantasy and not really a romance because the characters all seem infatuated by her but none of them are with her long enough consistently to build a relationship. Overall the bones of this book were good the potential was there for it to be great but due to the pacing and plot points being so erratic it felt a little short for me. It did get much better in the second half on that point and I felt like she had a little more time to process what was going on and grieve and start making more of a plan for herself. The ending was crazy and filled with so much chaos between all the mortal and ever and divine characters and I was trying to keep up with everything going on. So many terrible male characters in this book just really evil awful and thankfully there was some that were really sweet and loyal to Cecelia thankfully to counter it. Still very enjoyable and thankful to NetGalley and Kris Rose for the advanced copy and I’m excited to continue the series and see where Cecelia ends up once she comes into her power and position even more. Overall rating 3.25 stars.
I would classify this as a dark fantasy and not really a romance because the characters all seem infatuated by her but none of them are with her long enough consistently to build a relationship. Overall the bones of this book were good the potential was there for it to be great but due to the pacing and plot points being so erratic it felt a little short for me. It did get much better in the second half on that point and I felt like she had a little more time to process what was going on and grieve and start making more of a plan for herself. The ending was crazy and filled with so much chaos between all the mortal and ever and divine characters and I was trying to keep up with everything going on. So many terrible male characters in this book just really evil awful and thankfully there was some that were really sweet and loyal to Cecelia thankfully to counter it. Still very enjoyable and thankful to NetGalley and Kris Rose for the advanced copy and I’m excited to continue the series and see where Cecelia ends up once she comes into her power and position even more. Overall rating 3.25 stars.
Review of advance copy
There are some books you pick up thinking, this sounds interesting, and then suddenly you're staring at the final page wondering how it's already over. Crown of the Forsaken Heir was one of those books for me.
From the very beginning, Kris Rose throws you into a rich fantasy world filled with Divines, Ever Ones, humans gifted with magic, political intrigue, portals, family conflict and enough twists to keep the pages turning. At the heart of it all is a heroine ripped away from her mate, only to find herself surrounded by several very compelling alternatives... and I am absolutely invested in seeing where that storyline goes.
What I enjoyed most was the pace. There's always something happening, and the story never feels like it stands still. There are multiple political plots and power struggles unfolding simultaneously, which creates a world that feels layered and alive. At times my little brain had to work to keep up with all the moving pieces, but that's more a reflection of how much was happening than any lack of clarity. I was completely immersed throughout and found myself desperate to know what would happen next.
My only slight reservation was the female lead. I can already see the foundations of a fantastic character, with flashes of wit, determination and attitude that hint at who she could become. However, in this first book she often felt more reactive than proactive, with events happening around her rather than being driven by her own choices. Given where the story ends, though, I have a feeling this is very much the start of a larger character arc, and I'm excited to see how she develops in future books.
Overall, Crown of the Forsaken Heir is an addictive, fast-paced fantasy with an engaging cast, an ambitious world and plenty of intrigue to keep fantasy readers hooked. By the time I reached the final page, I was genuinely disappointed it was over and immediately wanted to pick up the sequel.
If you're looking for a fantasy packed with magic, political intrigue, shifting alliances and romantic tension, this is well worth adding to your TBR.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
From the very beginning, Kris Rose throws you into a rich fantasy world filled with Divines, Ever Ones, humans gifted with magic, political intrigue, portals, family conflict and enough twists to keep the pages turning. At the heart of it all is a heroine ripped away from her mate, only to find herself surrounded by several very compelling alternatives... and I am absolutely invested in seeing where that storyline goes.
What I enjoyed most was the pace. There's always something happening, and the story never feels like it stands still. There are multiple political plots and power struggles unfolding simultaneously, which creates a world that feels layered and alive. At times my little brain had to work to keep up with all the moving pieces, but that's more a reflection of how much was happening than any lack of clarity. I was completely immersed throughout and found myself desperate to know what would happen next.
My only slight reservation was the female lead. I can already see the foundations of a fantastic character, with flashes of wit, determination and attitude that hint at who she could become. However, in this first book she often felt more reactive than proactive, with events happening around her rather than being driven by her own choices. Given where the story ends, though, I have a feeling this is very much the start of a larger character arc, and I'm excited to see how she develops in future books.
Overall, Crown of the Forsaken Heir is an addictive, fast-paced fantasy with an engaging cast, an ambitious world and plenty of intrigue to keep fantasy readers hooked. By the time I reached the final page, I was genuinely disappointed it was over and immediately wanted to pick up the sequel.
If you're looking for a fantasy packed with magic, political intrigue, shifting alliances and romantic tension, this is well worth adding to your TBR.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I’d like to preface this review by saying that I did not know about the use of AI in promoting this book’s release.
This book felt very incomplete because the chapters are way too short for the world to be properly introduced and understood. So many things happened that left me so confused because why and how did that happen? The sentences didn’t feel well-constructed unless they were a description of how the man is handsome, alluring, or mysterious. I requested this ARC because I thought it’d focus on the strengths and capabilities of the FMC, and I love that in books because I love strong female characters, but I was incredibly disappointed with how the FMC was written here.
I know this book isn’t high fantasy in any way, but it felt jarring to read about how an omelette exists in this world. The magic or power system was still the most ridiculous out of everything in this book (if I ignore the multiple adjectives Cecelia would use to explain a man’s hair and eyes). How can Cecelia apparently be the Lady of the Forest and use her Forest Magic to blast an entire wall of Vaedra’s house and also manage to be the damsel in distress that Thierry has to carry and protect from the creatures of the night? It was also unbelievable to read how a heavy wardrobe was enough to protect them from all the dangers, including Myrad himself, who claims to have magic stronger than Forest Magic but apparently cannot use it to break down a door. This happens early in the story, and more ridiculous things happen later on, but this one made a lasting impression on me.
It was very frustrating to just wait for Cecelia to make sense of her powers while also being hounded by every man possible. Cecelia didn’t feel like a main character. She felt like an accessory to the story to move the plot forward.
I don’t know if a longer story would be better to improve this book, but I think it needed more time because of how the main character felt like a nobody in her own story.
I am still grateful to be given the chance by NetGalley and Kris Rose to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Publishing date: August 17, 2026
This book felt very incomplete because the chapters are way too short for the world to be properly introduced and understood. So many things happened that left me so confused because why and how did that happen? The sentences didn’t feel well-constructed unless they were a description of how the man is handsome, alluring, or mysterious. I requested this ARC because I thought it’d focus on the strengths and capabilities of the FMC, and I love that in books because I love strong female characters, but I was incredibly disappointed with how the FMC was written here.
I know this book isn’t high fantasy in any way, but it felt jarring to read about how an omelette exists in this world. The magic or power system was still the most ridiculous out of everything in this book (if I ignore the multiple adjectives Cecelia would use to explain a man’s hair and eyes). How can Cecelia apparently be the Lady of the Forest and use her Forest Magic to blast an entire wall of Vaedra’s house and also manage to be the damsel in distress that Thierry has to carry and protect from the creatures of the night? It was also unbelievable to read how a heavy wardrobe was enough to protect them from all the dangers, including Myrad himself, who claims to have magic stronger than Forest Magic but apparently cannot use it to break down a door. This happens early in the story, and more ridiculous things happen later on, but this one made a lasting impression on me.
It was very frustrating to just wait for Cecelia to make sense of her powers while also being hounded by every man possible. Cecelia didn’t feel like a main character. She felt like an accessory to the story to move the plot forward.
I don’t know if a longer story would be better to improve this book, but I think it needed more time because of how the main character felt like a nobody in her own story.
I am still grateful to be given the chance by NetGalley and Kris Rose to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Publishing date: August 17, 2026
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3 / 5)
Format: eARC (Advance Reader Copy)
Disclaimer: Thank you to the author/publisher for providing a digital review copy (ARC).
A fast-paced, entertaining fantasy with a rather chaotic execution
I was really looking forward to Crown of the Forsaken Heir. The concept and world sounded amazing, and I genuinely hoped this would become a new favorite. Unfortunately, after finishing it, I was left with mixed feelings.
What worked well?
• The concept: The foundation of the story and the core world-building idea have so much potential.
• Pacing & Readability: The pace is fast from the very start. It’s an incredibly quick and smooth read; it never gets boring.
• Entertainment value: If you don't take the story too seriously and are just in for a wild ride, it’s definitely entertaining.
Where did it fall short?
• Chaotic structure: The story felt jumpy at times. It felt as if so many ideas, random plot twists, and tropes were being crammed in at once that the overall plot became messy.
• Modern phrasing: In a High Fantasy setting, very modern words and expressions kept popping up (like "babe" and "pajamas"). This kept pulling me out of the immersive fantasy world.
• Inconsistent tone: The mood shifted constantly. Where one scene had a serious, dark fantasy vibe, the story would suddenly pivot to an almost absurd or unexpectedly spicy turn. I found myself laughing out loud multiple times at moments that probably weren't meant to be funny.
Conclusion
Crown of the Forsaken Heir is definitely not a bad book, but the execution was just a bit too unbalanced and inconsistent for me to give it a higher rating.
If you're looking for a fast-paced, action-packed fantasy with a heavy dose of chaos, and you don't mind a storyline that feels a bit unpolished, you'll likely enjoy this. For me, it just remained a bit too chaotic.
Format: eARC (Advance Reader Copy)
Disclaimer: Thank you to the author/publisher for providing a digital review copy (ARC).
A fast-paced, entertaining fantasy with a rather chaotic execution
I was really looking forward to Crown of the Forsaken Heir. The concept and world sounded amazing, and I genuinely hoped this would become a new favorite. Unfortunately, after finishing it, I was left with mixed feelings.
What worked well?
• The concept: The foundation of the story and the core world-building idea have so much potential.
• Pacing & Readability: The pace is fast from the very start. It’s an incredibly quick and smooth read; it never gets boring.
• Entertainment value: If you don't take the story too seriously and are just in for a wild ride, it’s definitely entertaining.
Where did it fall short?
• Chaotic structure: The story felt jumpy at times. It felt as if so many ideas, random plot twists, and tropes were being crammed in at once that the overall plot became messy.
• Modern phrasing: In a High Fantasy setting, very modern words and expressions kept popping up (like "babe" and "pajamas"). This kept pulling me out of the immersive fantasy world.
• Inconsistent tone: The mood shifted constantly. Where one scene had a serious, dark fantasy vibe, the story would suddenly pivot to an almost absurd or unexpectedly spicy turn. I found myself laughing out loud multiple times at moments that probably weren't meant to be funny.
Conclusion
Crown of the Forsaken Heir is definitely not a bad book, but the execution was just a bit too unbalanced and inconsistent for me to give it a higher rating.
If you're looking for a fast-paced, action-packed fantasy with a heavy dose of chaos, and you don't mind a storyline that feels a bit unpolished, you'll likely enjoy this. For me, it just remained a bit too chaotic.
Review of advance copy received from Author
5/5*****
Relentless action, feminine rage, mortals, immortals, meddling gods, magic, monsters, fated bonds, forests unsurvivable at night, evil kings, villains you love to hate, political intrigue, epic battle scenes and more. Despite these common fantasy/romantasy themes, Kris Rose formulates these into something distinctive and fresh. This is a huge fantasy world with many characters yet the author composed the writing in such a way that it was not overwhelming, a very difficult feat to execute properly.
The Prologue starts off with a major plot twist and the relenting pace continues throughout the book. This book is bold, dramatic, dark and gothic. And, there is an injection of humorous banter which I totally loved and appreciated. Kris Rose expertly crafted engrossing worlds and engaging characters. #crownoftheforsakenheir is imaginative, intensely compelling and an obsessive read.
Cecelia, the FMC, is multi-dimensional; strong, compassionate, fierce and an FMC the reader wants to support. She encounters multiple challenging events that fuel her character growth and rage to combat evil and revenge those who wronged her or her loved ones. Will she become something even the gods will fear?
The supporting male characters: Myrad, Xavy and Theirry, are also compelling and distinctive. Their personalities range from arrogant, judgmental, egotistical, and grumpy, to delightful, happy and always whistling, charming, and, lastly, a book nerd with glasses yet he is a Blademaster. Who doesn't love a book nerd who is also a skilled swordsman?
Kris, you are one of my new auto-buy authors. I know your future writings will continue to be inspiring and creatively genius. I cannot wait for book 2!!!
Favorite quotes:
Kingdoms are easier to destroy than women.
She's even changed the color of her fate.
How do you keep from feeling powerless in a world that's so full of evil.
Relentless action, feminine rage, mortals, immortals, meddling gods, magic, monsters, fated bonds, forests unsurvivable at night, evil kings, villains you love to hate, political intrigue, epic battle scenes and more. Despite these common fantasy/romantasy themes, Kris Rose formulates these into something distinctive and fresh. This is a huge fantasy world with many characters yet the author composed the writing in such a way that it was not overwhelming, a very difficult feat to execute properly.
The Prologue starts off with a major plot twist and the relenting pace continues throughout the book. This book is bold, dramatic, dark and gothic. And, there is an injection of humorous banter which I totally loved and appreciated. Kris Rose expertly crafted engrossing worlds and engaging characters. #crownoftheforsakenheir is imaginative, intensely compelling and an obsessive read.
Cecelia, the FMC, is multi-dimensional; strong, compassionate, fierce and an FMC the reader wants to support. She encounters multiple challenging events that fuel her character growth and rage to combat evil and revenge those who wronged her or her loved ones. Will she become something even the gods will fear?
The supporting male characters: Myrad, Xavy and Theirry, are also compelling and distinctive. Their personalities range from arrogant, judgmental, egotistical, and grumpy, to delightful, happy and always whistling, charming, and, lastly, a book nerd with glasses yet he is a Blademaster. Who doesn't love a book nerd who is also a skilled swordsman?
Kris, you are one of my new auto-buy authors. I know your future writings will continue to be inspiring and creatively genius. I cannot wait for book 2!!!
Favorite quotes:
Kingdoms are easier to destroy than women.
She's even changed the color of her fate.
How do you keep from feeling powerless in a world that's so full of evil.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was an ARC reader for this book, and overall I’d give it 3.5 stars.
The premise immediately caught my attention. Corrupted magic, gods, fated mates, political conflict…..those are all things I normally love in a fantasy, and this book definitely had the foundation for a really interesting world.
I also enjoyed Cecelia as the FMC. She goes through so much, and it was easy to root for her as she tried to navigate a world that seemed determined to make every decision for her. There were several side characters I found myself wanting to know more about as well, which tells me there’s a lot of potential in this series.
For me, the biggest challenge was the pacing. There were quite a few moments where the story felt like it was circling the same emotional beats or conversations, and I found myself wanting the plot to move forward a little more. I also wished the dialogue had a bit more depth in places. Some conversations felt a little too straightforward, and I kept hoping for more emotion, tension, or layers that would make those moments hit harder.
I also found myself wanting more from the worldbuilding. The magic system, the gods, and the history of the different kingdoms were all really intriguing, but I wanted to dive deeper into how everything connected. There were so many interesting ideas introduced that I felt like I was only scratching the surface of what this world has to offer. That being said, I never stopped believing in the potential of the story. The concept is strong, the world is unique, and there are plenty of mysteries that made me curious about where the series is headed. I think readers who enjoy fantasy with magic, political tension, divine influences, and slow-building mysteries will find a lot to like here.
Thank you for allowing me to be an ARC reader. I truly appreciate the opportunity to experience this story early, and I’m looking forward to seeing how this world continues to grow in future books.
The premise immediately caught my attention. Corrupted magic, gods, fated mates, political conflict…..those are all things I normally love in a fantasy, and this book definitely had the foundation for a really interesting world.
I also enjoyed Cecelia as the FMC. She goes through so much, and it was easy to root for her as she tried to navigate a world that seemed determined to make every decision for her. There were several side characters I found myself wanting to know more about as well, which tells me there’s a lot of potential in this series.
For me, the biggest challenge was the pacing. There were quite a few moments where the story felt like it was circling the same emotional beats or conversations, and I found myself wanting the plot to move forward a little more. I also wished the dialogue had a bit more depth in places. Some conversations felt a little too straightforward, and I kept hoping for more emotion, tension, or layers that would make those moments hit harder.
I also found myself wanting more from the worldbuilding. The magic system, the gods, and the history of the different kingdoms were all really intriguing, but I wanted to dive deeper into how everything connected. There were so many interesting ideas introduced that I felt like I was only scratching the surface of what this world has to offer. That being said, I never stopped believing in the potential of the story. The concept is strong, the world is unique, and there are plenty of mysteries that made me curious about where the series is headed. I think readers who enjoy fantasy with magic, political tension, divine influences, and slow-building mysteries will find a lot to like here.
Thank you for allowing me to be an ARC reader. I truly appreciate the opportunity to experience this story early, and I’m looking forward to seeing how this world continues to grow in future books.
Review of advance copy received from Author
**Crown of the Forsaken Heir** follows Cecelia, a fiercely resilient FMC who is constantly pushed to her limits through grief, manipulation, and political control across multiple kingdoms. From the start, she is treated as a pawn in larger divine and royal games, and her journey is defined by survival, impossible choices, and slowly learning to reclaim her own power.
At first, I worried the emotional pacing might feel overwhelming due to how relentlessly Cecelia is put through hardship. Instead, I became completely absorbed in her story. Every setback and moment of loss only deepened my investment in her growth and eventual defiance.
Cecelia is a standout protagonist not because she always knows what to do, but because of how she endures. Her transformation from grief-stricken and controlled to someone beginning to channel that pain into strength felt earned and compelling. I especially loved her banter with other characters, which added much-needed levity and charm throughout the heavier moments.
The supporting cast was equally memorable. Thierry was an instant favorite, Myrad was frustrating but intriguing in the best way, and the shifting alliances kept me constantly guessing. I loved that trust was never straightforward—just when I thought I understood someone’s motives, the story would challenge that assumption.
One of the biggest highlights for me was the world-building. The mythology feels expansive and layered, blending familiar mythological echoes with fresh ideas that make the world feel alive and much larger than what we see in this first installment. The magic system, politics, and multiple realms all hint at a much bigger story still unfolding.
Overall, this was a gripping fantasy full of emotional intensity, shifting loyalties, and strong character growth, with a heroine I couldn’t help but root for from beginning to end.
At first, I worried the emotional pacing might feel overwhelming due to how relentlessly Cecelia is put through hardship. Instead, I became completely absorbed in her story. Every setback and moment of loss only deepened my investment in her growth and eventual defiance.
Cecelia is a standout protagonist not because she always knows what to do, but because of how she endures. Her transformation from grief-stricken and controlled to someone beginning to channel that pain into strength felt earned and compelling. I especially loved her banter with other characters, which added much-needed levity and charm throughout the heavier moments.
The supporting cast was equally memorable. Thierry was an instant favorite, Myrad was frustrating but intriguing in the best way, and the shifting alliances kept me constantly guessing. I loved that trust was never straightforward—just when I thought I understood someone’s motives, the story would challenge that assumption.
One of the biggest highlights for me was the world-building. The mythology feels expansive and layered, blending familiar mythological echoes with fresh ideas that make the world feel alive and much larger than what we see in this first installment. The magic system, politics, and multiple realms all hint at a much bigger story still unfolding.
Overall, this was a gripping fantasy full of emotional intensity, shifting loyalties, and strong character growth, with a heroine I couldn’t help but root for from beginning to end.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow! So much happened in this book where do I begin? My rating is 3.5 stars but I will round up for this review. I am eagerly looking forward to book two to see how this all continues.
Our FMC really goes through it in this book. Sometimes I just don't know how she is getting through it all, whew, what a series of bad days! I hope to see her develop into an even stronger character with more independence and less male hangers on in book two! I hope she kicks some butt because she had some really cruddy luck in this book.
Our MMC is kind of a jerk, to say he's grumpy is putting it mildly. Sometimes he's downright mean and I'm not sure how I feel about that. I really hope there is a redemption arc in book two... or is he not the MMC? It's romantasy after all, maybe we end up with another fella? There are plenty to choose from in this book. The male side characters seem to really like our FMC!
The villains are villain-ing and boy are they bad! I hope they get what's coming to them and justice is served in the next book. And what about that brother? I'm getting bad vibes there... 🫣
My biggest complaint is that the book did feel a little chaotic at times, I sometimes didn't realize we'd had a little time skip which was a little disorienting. Was that just the ARC format or a feature of the book? Hard to tell but once I caught up each time I do find the unique world and perspectives on magic, immortal-vs-mortal, etc. to be intriguing and engaging.
Good job, I hope your next book let's Cecelia come into her own!
Ratings:
3.5 ⭐️
2 🌶️
Tropes: discovered powers, enemies to lovers, touch her and die, grey MMC, hidden identity, cliffhanger
Trigger warnings: abusive past, abused FMC, depression, death of mate, emotional and physical abuse
Good for fans of: ACOTAR, TOG
Length: 372 pages
Our FMC really goes through it in this book. Sometimes I just don't know how she is getting through it all, whew, what a series of bad days! I hope to see her develop into an even stronger character with more independence and less male hangers on in book two! I hope she kicks some butt because she had some really cruddy luck in this book.
Our MMC is kind of a jerk, to say he's grumpy is putting it mildly. Sometimes he's downright mean and I'm not sure how I feel about that. I really hope there is a redemption arc in book two... or is he not the MMC? It's romantasy after all, maybe we end up with another fella? There are plenty to choose from in this book. The male side characters seem to really like our FMC!
The villains are villain-ing and boy are they bad! I hope they get what's coming to them and justice is served in the next book. And what about that brother? I'm getting bad vibes there... 🫣
My biggest complaint is that the book did feel a little chaotic at times, I sometimes didn't realize we'd had a little time skip which was a little disorienting. Was that just the ARC format or a feature of the book? Hard to tell but once I caught up each time I do find the unique world and perspectives on magic, immortal-vs-mortal, etc. to be intriguing and engaging.
Good job, I hope your next book let's Cecelia come into her own!
Ratings:
3.5 ⭐️
2 🌶️
Tropes: discovered powers, enemies to lovers, touch her and die, grey MMC, hidden identity, cliffhanger
Trigger warnings: abusive past, abused FMC, depression, death of mate, emotional and physical abuse
Good for fans of: ACOTAR, TOG
Length: 372 pages
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really have to say, I enjoyed this book immensely! This would have been a 5-star read for me, but throughout the book I was very confused at times with certain things. I felt like there were more detailed descriptions missing and at times, whole sentences. Best way I can think to describe it is like watching a movie with the fast forward button on the lowest setting. I'd love a bit more detail in the next book. To smooth out the choppy feeling I had while reading.
Onto the characters:
FMC, Cecelia aka Ces. I liked her somewhat but I feel like most of the book she doesn't say a whole lot and her inner monolog was very shallow. She is also tired, a freaking lot. She really didn't do a ton to help herself. She wasn't a strong independent woman. I think there is so much potential for her. Towards the end we do see her begin to trust in herself and her abilities. Which I cannot wait to read how she continues to develop as the series continues!
The MMCs:
Omg, Thierry! If there was a catalog where you could pick traits to custom make your perfect man, well honey this is him. He was by far my favorite! I loved how he was protective, but not in the toxic sense. Always putting Ces first. Just so good!!!
Xavy: I really liked him as well! This guy was so sweet. Again protective but in a healthy way.
Myrad: 😤 Not. A. Fan.
We also meet another character, Flynn. I feel like homeslice will be making himself present in the next book. And👏I👏Am👏Here👏For👏It!
The storyline is captivating and kept me waiting to read more. I actually ended up reading this in one sitting! Now I need to know when the next book is cause I need to know more and see where the story goes!
Thank you so much Kris Rose for this ARC! I am so tickled I was selected to read this. Thank you for such a wonderful read. I am very excited for the next book!
Onto the characters:
FMC, Cecelia aka Ces. I liked her somewhat but I feel like most of the book she doesn't say a whole lot and her inner monolog was very shallow. She is also tired, a freaking lot. She really didn't do a ton to help herself. She wasn't a strong independent woman. I think there is so much potential for her. Towards the end we do see her begin to trust in herself and her abilities. Which I cannot wait to read how she continues to develop as the series continues!
The MMCs:
Omg, Thierry! If there was a catalog where you could pick traits to custom make your perfect man, well honey this is him. He was by far my favorite! I loved how he was protective, but not in the toxic sense. Always putting Ces first. Just so good!!!
Xavy: I really liked him as well! This guy was so sweet. Again protective but in a healthy way.
Myrad: 😤 Not. A. Fan.
We also meet another character, Flynn. I feel like homeslice will be making himself present in the next book. And👏I👏Am👏Here👏For👏It!
The storyline is captivating and kept me waiting to read more. I actually ended up reading this in one sitting! Now I need to know when the next book is cause I need to know more and see where the story goes!
Thank you so much Kris Rose for this ARC! I am so tickled I was selected to read this. Thank you for such a wonderful read. I am very excited for the next book!
Did Not Finish
July 27, 2026I received an Advance Review Copy (ARC) of Crown of the Forsaken Heir by Kris Rose in exchange for an honest review.
Unfortunately, I decided to DNF this book at 10%. The opinions below are based solely on the portion I read.
The premise sounded promising, but I struggled with the execution. Like the blurb, the story introduced too many major plot elements too quickly without giving any of them enough room to develop, making it feel chaotic and overcrowded.
Unfortunately, nearly every aspect of the book fell short for me. The pacing was rushed, with the story jumping from one event or revelation to the next in each chapter before the previous one had time to settle or devel further. Instead of feeling like each development was building on the last, it often felt like I was simply being moved through a checklist of plot points.
The characters lacked depth and the worldbuilding introduced interesting concepts without exploring them enough to make the setting feel immersive. The prose often felt too generic. Many scenes also lacked enough description to fully visualize the setting or understand what was happening. I often felt like I was expected to fill in the gaps myself rather than having the world and its events clearly established on the page. The dialogue was more functional than character-driven, and the emotional moments rarely landed with the impact they seemed intended to have.
I genuinely wanted to enjoy this book because the premise had a lot of potential, but I realized I was not interested in continuing at all. While I can appreciate the ambition behind the story, the execution simply didn't work for me. Other readers may enjoy its fast-paced style and ambitious scope, but unfortunately it wasn't a good fit for my reading preferences.
Unfortunately, I decided to DNF this book at 10%. The opinions below are based solely on the portion I read.
The premise sounded promising, but I struggled with the execution. Like the blurb, the story introduced too many major plot elements too quickly without giving any of them enough room to develop, making it feel chaotic and overcrowded.
Unfortunately, nearly every aspect of the book fell short for me. The pacing was rushed, with the story jumping from one event or revelation to the next in each chapter before the previous one had time to settle or devel further. Instead of feeling like each development was building on the last, it often felt like I was simply being moved through a checklist of plot points.
The characters lacked depth and the worldbuilding introduced interesting concepts without exploring them enough to make the setting feel immersive. The prose often felt too generic. Many scenes also lacked enough description to fully visualize the setting or understand what was happening. I often felt like I was expected to fill in the gaps myself rather than having the world and its events clearly established on the page. The dialogue was more functional than character-driven, and the emotional moments rarely landed with the impact they seemed intended to have.
I genuinely wanted to enjoy this book because the premise had a lot of potential, but I realized I was not interested in continuing at all. While I can appreciate the ambition behind the story, the execution simply didn't work for me. Other readers may enjoy its fast-paced style and ambitious scope, but unfortunately it wasn't a good fit for my reading preferences.
August 19, 2026
★★★★★ ARC REVIEW
Author Kris Rose gives us a dark, gothic fantasy complete with feminine rage, grief, betrayal, complicated relationships, gods, magic, danger and plenty of what the actual heck is happening moments.
Chapter 1: Cecilia loses her blood mate.
Chapter 2: Death takes an… interest.
Chapters 3–39: Chaos. Betrayal. Love interests. Gods. Creepy enchanted forests.
Chapter 40: Because apparently 1–39 weren’t enough… CLIFFHANGER!!!!
This book was AMAZING.
Crown of the Forsaken Heir has elite world building and top tier characters.Cecilia is grieving. She’s angry. She’s confused.She makes questionable decisions (but honestly, who wouldn’t?!).Her entire life changes basically overnight, and she’s trying to survive, heal, and somehow find her place in the middle of all that chaos.One thing I think the author did so beautifully was not making Cecilia this perfect heroine. She is just starting out.She has time to grow into her own. And I believe that once she does…She will be one HELL of a queen. 👑🔥(She kind of reminds me of my girl Nesta!!)
Other Honorable Character Mentions:
Thierry — Instantly lovable.
Myrad — Soooooo NOT my cup of tea. Kind of wanted to pour the tea on him, if I’m honest.
Death — YO!!!! 👀 I am SO intrigued by this character.
I have already demanded that Death gets his own POV book.I have questions!!! He is my one of my favorite characters (not just in this book, but across the board). I absolutely LOVE him.
Another warning: Do NOT expect to be satisfied with this ending. 😂 We have five more books to answer all of the questions we are now obsessing over.
Thank you, Kris Rose, for allowing me to be part of this amazing world. I can’t WAIT to continue Cecilia’s story with you.
Author Kris Rose gives us a dark, gothic fantasy complete with feminine rage, grief, betrayal, complicated relationships, gods, magic, danger and plenty of what the actual heck is happening moments.
Chapter 1: Cecilia loses her blood mate.
Chapter 2: Death takes an… interest.
Chapters 3–39: Chaos. Betrayal. Love interests. Gods. Creepy enchanted forests.
Chapter 40: Because apparently 1–39 weren’t enough… CLIFFHANGER!!!!
This book was AMAZING.
Crown of the Forsaken Heir has elite world building and top tier characters.Cecilia is grieving. She’s angry. She’s confused.She makes questionable decisions (but honestly, who wouldn’t?!).Her entire life changes basically overnight, and she’s trying to survive, heal, and somehow find her place in the middle of all that chaos.One thing I think the author did so beautifully was not making Cecilia this perfect heroine. She is just starting out.She has time to grow into her own. And I believe that once she does…She will be one HELL of a queen. 👑🔥(She kind of reminds me of my girl Nesta!!)
Other Honorable Character Mentions:
Thierry — Instantly lovable.
Myrad — Soooooo NOT my cup of tea. Kind of wanted to pour the tea on him, if I’m honest.
Death — YO!!!! 👀 I am SO intrigued by this character.
I have already demanded that Death gets his own POV book.I have questions!!! He is my one of my favorite characters (not just in this book, but across the board). I absolutely LOVE him.
Another warning: Do NOT expect to be satisfied with this ending. 😂 We have five more books to answer all of the questions we are now obsessing over.
Thank you, Kris Rose, for allowing me to be part of this amazing world. I can’t WAIT to continue Cecilia’s story with you.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book starts off strong! Our FMC, Cecilia, and her mate are hunted down by her father, and Cecilia is forced to watch as her mate is tragically killed.
Determined to survive, Cecilia and her twin brother seek help in the hope of transferring the mate bond, as when one mate dies, the other is destined to follow.
There are two side characters in this book who literally made me laugh out loud so many times. They brought so much humour to the story and were such great additions to the cast.
There is so much happening throughout this book that I already know I’ll be rereading it. I’m sure there are plenty of details I may have overlooked the first time around, and I can already tell this is going to be a series I’ll happily revisit.
While reading, so many intriguing things are happening that you’re constantly wondering what’s going to happen next. The story kept me hooked and kept me guessing throughout.
The first half of this book was great, but I struggled a little with the second half. There are a lot of different gods introduced, and with the story constantly going back and forth, I occasionally found it difficult to keep up with everything that was happening.
I also found it hard to connect with some of the male characters. I understood the MMC to an extent, but with multiple male characters being introduced throughout the book each with their own interest and loyalty to Cecilia, I found myself getting a bit of a spinning head trying to keep track.
I absolutely loved the author’s storytelling and think they did such an amazing job. I can’t wait to see where the series goes next!
Determined to survive, Cecilia and her twin brother seek help in the hope of transferring the mate bond, as when one mate dies, the other is destined to follow.
There are two side characters in this book who literally made me laugh out loud so many times. They brought so much humour to the story and were such great additions to the cast.
There is so much happening throughout this book that I already know I’ll be rereading it. I’m sure there are plenty of details I may have overlooked the first time around, and I can already tell this is going to be a series I’ll happily revisit.
While reading, so many intriguing things are happening that you’re constantly wondering what’s going to happen next. The story kept me hooked and kept me guessing throughout.
The first half of this book was great, but I struggled a little with the second half. There are a lot of different gods introduced, and with the story constantly going back and forth, I occasionally found it difficult to keep up with everything that was happening.
I also found it hard to connect with some of the male characters. I understood the MMC to an extent, but with multiple male characters being introduced throughout the book each with their own interest and loyalty to Cecilia, I found myself getting a bit of a spinning head trying to keep track.
I absolutely loved the author’s storytelling and think they did such an amazing job. I can’t wait to see where the series goes next!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
If you love fantasy filled with mystery, gods, magic, and worlds waiting to be explored, Crown of the Forsaken Heir is one to add to your TBR. It’s easy to read and you will want to read on and on to figure everything out.
From the very first chapters, I was captivated by the Shrouded Forest, a magical place full of secrets, and the fascinating ability to travel between different realms. Every new revelation only raised more questions, and I loved slowly uncovering this richly layered world.
At the heart of the story is Cecelia, the heir to the Shrouded Forest. Bound to Shay by a magical mate bond (where the death of one means the death of the other) she must learn to control her growing powers while being hunted by both her own father and powerful gods. Along the way she finds unexpected allies, but in a world built on secrets, trust is never guaranteed.
The gods are one of my favorite aspects of the story. They seem divided, each playing their own mysterious game and it's impossible to know who can truly be trusted. That same uncertainty extends to handsome characters like Myrad, Thierry and Xavy, whose true motives remain hidden, keeping the tension high throughout.
This book left me with exactly what I want of a fantasy series: a head full of theories and an overwhelming need to know what happens next. I can't wait to learn more about the history of the Shrouded Forest, the gods, and the role they all play in this intriguing world. I’m ready for book number 2!
So if you love: realm travel, enemies to lovers, forced proximity, fantasy, gods, plotstwists, hidden powers. This could be a book for you!
From the very first chapters, I was captivated by the Shrouded Forest, a magical place full of secrets, and the fascinating ability to travel between different realms. Every new revelation only raised more questions, and I loved slowly uncovering this richly layered world.
At the heart of the story is Cecelia, the heir to the Shrouded Forest. Bound to Shay by a magical mate bond (where the death of one means the death of the other) she must learn to control her growing powers while being hunted by both her own father and powerful gods. Along the way she finds unexpected allies, but in a world built on secrets, trust is never guaranteed.
The gods are one of my favorite aspects of the story. They seem divided, each playing their own mysterious game and it's impossible to know who can truly be trusted. That same uncertainty extends to handsome characters like Myrad, Thierry and Xavy, whose true motives remain hidden, keeping the tension high throughout.
This book left me with exactly what I want of a fantasy series: a head full of theories and an overwhelming need to know what happens next. I can't wait to learn more about the history of the Shrouded Forest, the gods, and the role they all play in this intriguing world. I’m ready for book number 2!
So if you love: realm travel, enemies to lovers, forced proximity, fantasy, gods, plotstwists, hidden powers. This could be a book for you!
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