Collecting Crowns

by Jay Montana

415 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 12, 2026

Reviews

[Krista Nicole]

An exciting new world to dive into filled with political intrigue, uneven caste type system to keep those without magic down, and a future ruler who slowly starts to doubt the mother who raised and abused her and called it love.

You follow two main characters, the FMC who’s spent her life believing she has very little magic even those she’s supposed to soon be taking over ruling all the kingdoms from her mother, and the MMC, an outcasted prince who’s spent his life doing vigilante justice and not wanting the crown his uncle stole from his parents. When the FMC decides she’s had enough of her mother atrocities and gives a lord mercy by taking his like, the ends up forming a magical weapon that gives her extra power but also causes her to loose control and loose it. She ends up in another kingdom away from her mother and ends up making allies with both those without magic and this outcasts prince who somehow ended up with her weapon and won’t give it back until she earns his trust and proves she’s not like her mother. They must work together to take down the systems of oppression and fight for those who aren’t able to fight for themselves.

I really enjoyed the world building in this book and while it started out slow, it quickly built up into chaos with a lot of moving parts all happening at once and the FMC slowly coming into her powers and understanding what her mother was doing is wrong. She ends up using the trauma from her mother to make her even stronger after years of being put down and as those around her start to believe in her and that she’s different. I liked how both the FMC and MMC had little found families to surround themselves with after not having or being abused by their own. Everything came to a head all at once and I cannot wait to see where this series goes next! My rating 4.6/5!

Thanks to the author for the gifted copy, all opinions given are my own!

[Sarah Nolan]

This gothic, eerie, epic fantasy had me entranced from the very first page and had me on the edge of my seat!

Omnia Melania is one of those FMC’s who you just connect with and want to walk alongside. I felt her pain, stood up with her as she fought to learn the true depths of her power, and I witnessed her quiet yet mighty courage as she stood up for what she believed in, without losing those qualities that made her unique and different from the Omnias who came before her.

Erebus, oh Erebus. He is a snarky, shadowy vampire MMC who hides his deeply rooted pain and fear of losing more of his loved ones to death, behind humor. He sets out to save those who are being eradicated by Omnia Itzel’s evil plans, and he reluctantly allies himself with Melania. The found family and political intrigue in this story is top tier, with a unique take on elemental magic, very distinct magical creatures, and a gothic atmosphere that teeters between mystical and dark.

This story does get dark at times, but never without a glimpse of hope. I am utterly enthralled and cannot wait to see what comes next, as there were many twists and turns I thought I saw coming but boy was I wrong!

Romantic Content: ❌ No Spice

CW: Parental Abuse, Mild Gore, Fantasy Violence, Anxiety, Depression, Manipulation, Mild Innuendos, Explicit Swearing Scattered Throughout, 2 Instances Where Ancient Magic is Shared Through a Non-Romantic Kiss, Blood Feeding (Mildly Described-Vampires)

[Michi]

I received this book as an ARC from the author.

This book starts off a bit slow, but that's just the build-up. The second half of the book is where things really get interesting, and I couldn't put it down!

Great character development and storyline. A unique magic system that also feels familiar at the same time. There is a lot to learn about this world, and the author does a fantastic job of describing it in vivid detail. Her world-building and imagery are phenomenal. The way she introduces information feels very natural and not forced.

The characters are well-written and the story will keep you hooked. There were quite a few plot twists, some expected and some unexpected. The stories of Melania and Erebus are just beginning and I'm sure we're in for a wild ride in book 2!

This book is beautifully written and it's hard to believe that this is her debut novel. I cannot wait to see what happens in the next book!

[Brianna Roberson]

Rating: 3.75/5 ⭐️
Writing style: first person present, short sentences

Let me just start by saying the worldbuilding in this book is incredible. The setting is such a unique concept and one I didn’t know I wanted until I read it. I also really like the characterization of our two MCs and the journeys they go on.

However, this was kind of a hard book for me to read. The writing style sometimes felt choppy, with huge revelations just coming to the characters without any of the process of how they got there, which really cheapened those realizations for me. Also, I absolutely loved Erebus but man needs to learn how to ask permission bc some of those later scenes got kind of yucky to me.

Even so, I would def recommend this book to friends and am eagerly awaiting the second

[Shai-Anne]

*I finished this a while ago and forgot to update*

I don't give five stars out that often, so for me to rate a book especially by a debut author is incredible. I just recently started getting into fantasy and let me tell you, I fell in love with this book from the first page! The world building is perfect and I felt as if everything was necessary to understand where the story was taking us. I am so excited to read the next book in this series and continue reading more from this author!!

If you are looking for a good fantasy read with incredible world building that pulls you in, this is the book for you!

[Stephanie Chiocchi]

3.75✨ thank you to Jay Montana for this eARC!

Review to come

[Kevin VanMeter]

I love how the author builds the world organically. It just feels natural and flows. The school scene was so smart to explain to the readers more about the world and hierarchy. Well done and can't wait for book #2.

[Tanya Boston]

OMG!!! If you love fantasy this is for you!! The world building, uniqueness makes this stand out! Love the characters and the plot twists. Every chapter throws something new at you. The last 25% of the book was just... wow!!! I was gifted this as an arc read and for a debut novel, I am amazed with how great this was. I can NOT wait for the next book to come out!! ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[MzHyde]

Thank you to the author for letting me get an ARC copy of this.
This was astounding! I loved the different POVs & how different Melania & Erebus are from each other but still somewhat the same. Melania's growth development from being all meek & taking all the abuse from her mother & others to then being this badass I don't take shit from anyone anymore was so fucking delicious. These characters all had a rough past but how they dealt with it & grew from it, I loved it. These characters never gave up even when they wanted to & seeing their mental struggles & how they healed from it with help from family & friends. There were so many secrets that you didn't expect when they were revealed. And some of those secrets were some amazing plot twists. The magic system in this was so fascinating & how they're sectioned off from each other. One of my favorite things is how Omnias have rainbow eyes. RAINBOW EYES!I can just imagine how beautiful they are. The writing was very addicting & it drew you in more as the chapters kept going. The story just kept building up & had your toes curling with anticipation. That ending was such a great cliffhanger because even though Melania grew so much as a character, she still needs to grow magically to become an all powerful true Omnia & I know damn well she will & I can't wait to continue this journey when the next book comes out. I'm so flabbergasted by how much I'm obsessed with this.

[Christa]

A Spellbinding World You Won’t Want to Leave
Collecting Crowns is an immersive fantasy novel that excels at pulling readers deep into its world. The author uses exceptionally vivid descriptions and a rich palette of adjectives to bring every setting and scene to life. If you love stories where you can completely visualize the magic and surroundings, this book delivers beautifully.

Tangled Perspectives and Heartfelt Connections
The plot is intricately tangled, woven together through multiple key character perspectives. While tracking different voices requires your full attention, the payoff is entirely worth it. Every single storyline beautifully merges together at the very end. At the center of this emotional journey is Melania. She is an incredibly relatable character who immediately tugs on your heartstrings. You cannot help but deeply feel for her hardships and root for her through every obstacle she faces.

A Page-Turning Finale
While the buildup is detailed, the last third of the book transforms into an absolute page-turner. I could not put it down. The climax provides a highly satisfying finale to the immediate story, while masterfully leaving the door open for the future. It left me fully satisfied, yet completely eager to read whatever comes next for these characters.

[Jocelyn]

2.5 stars

This book really was not a good fit for me at all! I thought the premise sounding interesting, which is why I picked it up, but it didn’t work for me at all.

I didn’t connect with any of the characters, especially Erebus. He was way too whiny and emotional for me. Way too much crying.

The plot was full of holes which made it quite confusing at times. The pacing also felt really uneven which made it feel super slow at times. The writing itself wasn’t bad, but wasn’t gripping. The magic system was a little confusing. And the surprise with Lelantos at the end? I did not feel like it was a good choice. Also, it seemed like it was kind of marketed as a Romantasy, but there is no romance. So if you’re going into it expecting romance, you will be disappointed. And fair warning, it is very, very dark. I had to keep putting it down and reading something lighter to lift my spirits a bit because it felt really heavy to me personally. Maybe others won’t find it as dark.

I have a feeling the next book will be better, but I won’t be reading it. Again, I just don’t think I am the target audience for this book. Just because I didn’t like it doesn’t mean someone else won’t love it!

[CinBooks]

Thank you to the author for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This one took me a little while to fully get into. The first part is definitely more focused on setting up the world, characters, and magic system, but once everything started coming together, I was completely hooked.

One of the strongest aspects of this book was the world-building. The author creates a detailed, immersive world that felt easy to picture, and I never felt overwhelmed by information. The magic system was interesting and had some familiar elements while still feeling unique enough to keep me curious.

I also enjoyed following Melania and Erebus. Their journeys feel like they're only just beginning, and I'm excited to see where the story takes them next. There were several twists throughout the book—some I saw coming and others caught me by surprise—which kept me turning the pages.

What impressed me most is that this is a debut novel. The writing is strong, the world feels fully realized, and it sets up what could be a really exciting series.

I'll definitely be picking up book two because I need to know what happens next.

[kingdoms.of.books]

For a debut novel, this exceeds expectations. This is a high epic fantasy that is riveting, contains great worldbuilding and characters you will love and wicked ones you will despise.

If you enjoy reading about Fates, god, portals, magic wielders, witches, artifacts, rare bloodlines, gothic places, shadow hounds, vengeance, revenge, treason, life-altering bargains, kingdom politics, fated mates, monsters, necromancers, wraiths, nymphs, tyrants, stolen thrones, murder to name a few, you will love Collecting Crowns, Book 1 of the Omnia series.

Omnia Melania - A princess who encounters great abuse, possesses a powerful bloodline magic.
I love her character arc.

Erebus, the dead prince of Tenebrae, must decide if he wishes to remain an outlaw as he uncovers an artifact Omnia Melania unsuspectingly created.

The side characters are so well-written and heighten the desirability of the reading experience. Elara, Addilyn, Ire, Lelantos and Micah are a few of the integral characters.

Tropes: High fantasy, Shadow Magic, Unlikely Allies, High Stakes, Unique Magic System, Found Family, Reluctant Heroes, Magical Weapon

[Samantha Kolhoff]

I’d like to start this off by saying thank you to the author for allowing me to arc read this!

Honestly I was extremely interested in this by the end of the prologue and after the first few chapters I was completely hooked! I loved how it just threw me right into the story and did the world building in a way that wasn’t overwhelming!
There wasn’t a single time in this book that I was bored, there was actually several times that I was standing up cause I just couldn’t sit down while reading it. I was laughing along with the characters and fully invested in the book. Anytime I found myself wishing that the author would include an explanation of something or a different pov is was there naturally in the story. It gave me everything I wanted. And all I will say is the twist at the end had me physically putting the book down to process it, I was completely shocked I never would’ve guess that was going to happen. Reading about the personal growth of the FMC and the MMC had me on the edge of my seat wanting to find out what was going to happen.

[ReviewsByNic]

Collecting Crowns by Jay Montana
4.75 out of 5 stars
ARC

Thank you, Jay and IRIS, for this early copy. All parts of this review are of my honest opinion 💚

Collecting Crowns follows Omnia Melania in an adventure that not only shows her the truth, but also allows Melania to grow into who she is supposed to be. And it's not just her, our Dead Prince of Tenebrae joins her on some of this discovery, learning just how needed he truly is.

This made for a unique and interesting read with fantastic world-building and growth. I really sucked in all the information we were given and loved every bit, from the rainbow eyes, to learning about the wings, and to seeing how much Melania grew.

This is one of those reads where twists and turns surprise you. Where you'll be wondering what happens next. Where you'll be raising your fist and swearing allegiance to the one true Omnia. So if you haven't yet, add Collecting Crowns to your tbr, read on ku, and follow Jay for updates about book 2!

[Erin Masura]

Collecting Crowns is filled with unique magic systems, a plot that will blow your mind, and writing that is so descriptive that you feel like you are in the story with the characters.
Melania our fmc is thought of as weak by others but she is powerful in so many ways. The way she stands up against her mother even knowing what can and will happen is strength like nothing else. The twists and turns in the book had me not wanting to put the book down. Erebus is the mmc who is protective of those who can’t protect themselves. While he may be the mmc it is His brother Lelantos that I fell in love with. I can’t wait to read more about him.
The character development and world building are so beautifully written. Highly recommend this one and want to say more but no spoilers allowed!

[Hazel]

Collecting Crowns is a high stakes high fantasy novel featuring a unique magic system that includes shadow and elemental magic. It follows Omnia Melania and Erebus Ravenheart as they become unlikely allies in a revolution that will change all the kingdoms in the land.
I loved this book! Melania’s growth was so well written. My heart broke for her so many times. Erebus too. They were both so strong in the face of adversity, even after the trauma they faced. I also loved the twist of fated mates, where the two fated weren’t instantly in love with each other. I am definitely interested in seeing how this is explored in the rest of the series.
Can’t wait for book two! Seriously, my only complaint about this book was that I didn’t want it to end!

[Mel Ram]

OMG, Collecting Crowns was such an amazing read! It captivated me from the very beginning and kept me engaged the entire time. There was always something happening, whether it was new revelations, unexpected twists, or challenges that kept raising the stakes.

One of my favorite parts was the found-family aspect of the story. Watching the characters come together and support one another made me even more invested in their journey. The story was exciting, emotional, and full of surprises, making it nearly impossible to put down.

And wow, everything that happened was crazy in the best way. By the end, I was completely hooked and desperate to know what comes next. I can't wait to continue following Melania's story and see what happens in the next book!

[Evelyn Mootispaw]

I got this book as an ARC copy. This book was outstanding. I am always a fan of the dual POV and this did not disappoint.

This was a book that had everything. A good plot, great character development, detail to make you feel like you are part of the story unfolding. It was just the right pace of reading. I could not put it down.

Omnia Melania and Erebus are a couple of the best lead characters that I have read this year. I can not wait to see what is in store for them in the future. Maybe even a book just for Lelantos as he was one I would be willing to follow further.

Jay Montana will be an author I keep on the radar.

[Shauna Kruse]

Melania has lived under the shadow of her cruel mother her whole life, abused and told to be quiet and meek. She has no idea what sort of power she may wield if given the chance. Her mother is trying to eliminate non magical people, and does so cruelly. Can Melania stand up to her and create a change?

I really enjoyed the plot of this book, and the basis of it. The characters were strong, and you either loved them or hated them. The world was different and well built. Some of the writing didn't flow as well as it could have, but being that she is a debut author, I definitely expect her writing to improve, and I am looking forward to the second book!

[Betsy]

3.5⭐️

Thank you Jay Montana for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC!

I really wanted to enjoy this book, but I found myself confused most of the time while reading it. I don’t think it had anything to do with the writing, it was more like there was plot holes. I couldn’t understand the story, like who is more powerful the Queen or the Omnia. I also didn’t understand the FMCs power. Maybe my mind wasn’t in the right place when reading this book. Maybe a re-read of this book at a later time will help me connect with the story more. But I was sad that I couldn’t really connect with this book as much as I wanted to.

[Penny Marks]

I was in such a funk about reading the same old fantasy books that when I picked up this book it was a pleasant surprise. It is the first in the series, The Omnia series written by an author that is a breath of fresh air. This is her debut novel.
When you read it you won’t believe it. Her world building and character development are those of a seasoned author. I can’t say how much I loved how real everything felt. I subversive read it. You couldn’t pull me away.
The characters Melania and Erebus are incredible and can’t wait for the continuation of this series after all the twists and turns.
Their adventures moving forward are going to be epic.

[Manasa HR]

This was an interesting read. Unique royal family and their hierarchy. The world this is set in is very different as well.

Everything starts with 1 unlawful punishment, and Melania sets off on an adventure. This is where she learns and unlearns so many things about herself, her family and her allegiance to the crown is tested not only by herself but many others... Erebus has been outcasted from his crown as well. He is desperate to save his people.

Chaos and battle is guaranteed when these two join forces. But there are so many twists and turns that I did not expect at all. But, I loved it!

Thank You Jay and IRIS for this ARC

[Samantha Vargas]

Collecting Crowns provides such a unique world with well thought out magic systems, ruling classes, and political intrigue.

When Omnia Melania is forced to sit through a public execution of someone she knew as a child, her whole world flips upside down as she fights against the cruelty of her mother.

On the other side, Erebus fights for those who do not have a voice, and are targeted by the ruling line as less than.

Jay Montana is definitely an author to look out for! I haven’t read anything like this before and I will definitely be adding it tk my shelf as a trophy!!!!

[Kay]

Collecting Crowns is a masterpiece in world building. This is the first in the series and has a completely new take on elementals. We have have an FMC who slowly grows into herself, it's not a love story at this point not even a slow burn. Its an epic fantasy adventure that leaves you wanting more, I love the friendships that were formed and the lingering questions that will be answered in the future. I loved that there were so many plot points that weren't predictable (although there were a few that are.) This was just an amazing read that I can't wait for more of.

[Zero]

✨ARC Book Review✨

4.5/5⭐

This book is written in first person, present tense. It has 2 different povs.

HOLY SHIT I NEED MORE!!!

First the writing itself is beautiful. You can tell that all of the characters have been fleshed out. Their arcs are well paced and it's easy to tell the difference in character voice, though the names at the top of the chapters are nice.

The world building is fleshed out and incorporated well into the plot and story itself. Everything builds up on itself. Even when there are some more drops, it feels like the characters telling a story as if they are trying to remember they are real and can live their own lives separate from their bloodlines and history.

There were a few typos, but not enough that it ruined my experience. As well as there were two points where there was some time skip and it felt a bit jarring, but it wasn't like it was built too. There was almost explicit knowledge that we were building to this, but we just moved into the scene. The ending was a tad rushed, but it was still well paced.

If there is to be a second book I need it now. I need Omnia Melania, Erebus, and Lelantos to just all kiss each other. I don't think you understand. Please please please please-

[Elle D.]

4.5/5 ⭐

Oh oh, what a TREAT and a terror to find an FMC I relate so unfortunately to 🥀 Omnia Melania will become everything I wished I could be under the weight of my own abuser, I can feel it in my big toe. I love her. And Ire is quite possibly my favorite character cover to cover. Never lose your inferno little one 😭 Finally, a character with the wings *I* want, fluffy raven's feathers, and god am I jealous.

I am waiting with bated breath for the rest of this series to unfold. And I'm watching you, La'Mia, always watching. War is coming. Are we truly ready?

[Divya]

This was a great fantasy read with good character building and an excellent plot. The story follows Omnia Melania, who is brought up under her mother's oppressive rule after the great cleansing. When a blade with her magic falls into the hands of Erebus, the Dead Prince of Tenebrae, she takes it upon herself to retrieve it. Her character develops really well from a scared princess to a fearless warrior as the story progresses. The character of pronce Erebus is also nicely done as is his relationship with his brothers. An amazing story with betrayal, twists, hidden magic and more.

[Angiewagg]

Politics and magic what an odd combination.
The FMC realizes that her mother may not have had her best interest at heart during her childhood.
Her mother called abuse love and thought she was doing the right thing.
The characters develop very nicely in this story and the story kept me interested.
Well written, very descriptive and I could see the world and the characters vividly in my mind.

I received an advance review copy at no cost and am leaving this review voluntarily.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Nova Brock]

Collection Crowns is a promising start to a dark fantasy series that places a strong emphasis on world-building, political conflict, and morally complex characters. While the story takes its time establishing the world and its lore, that investment pays off as the plot gains momentum, creating an immersive fantasy that becomes increasingly difficult to put down.

The opening chapters are dedicated to introducing the kingdoms, the magic system, and the beliefs that shape the characters' lives. Although the pacing is slower at first, it never felt unnecessary. Instead, it provides the foundation needed for the larger conflicts to carry real emotional and political weight later in the novel. Once those pieces begin falling into place, the story finds its stride and becomes incredibly engaging.

One of my favorite aspects of the book is its take on the classic light-versus-dark dynamic. Rather than following a predictable good-versus-evil formula, the story blurs those lines by forcing characters from opposing sides to work together against a far greater threat. That shift makes the narrative feel fresh while allowing both Melania and Erebus to grow beyond the roles they were expected to play.

The relationship between Melania and Erebus was another highlight. Their connection develops naturally through shared experiences and their growing mission rather than relying solely on romance. While Erebus's feelings become apparent early on, their relationship is built on trust, understanding, and mutual growth, making it feel more meaningful than an instant attraction. The banter sprinkled throughout also helps lighten some of the darker moments without taking away from the overall tone.

The magic system is both unique and easy to follow, adding another layer to the world without becoming overly complicated. Combined with the immersive settings and rich lore, it creates a fantasy world that feels vivid and distinct. Every new revelation expands the scope of the story while remaining easy to visualize, making it enjoyable to explore alongside the characters.

I also appreciated that the plot balances familiar fantasy elements with enough surprises to keep readers invested. Some developments can be anticipated, but the story still manages to deliver satisfying twists that maintain the momentum and keep you wondering where things are headed next.

The final act was easily my favorite part of the novel. As the action escalates and long-building conflicts finally collide, the stakes rise dramatically, leading to an ending that left me wanting the sequel immediately. The cliffhanger is frustrating in the best possible way, leaving plenty of unanswered questions while making me excited to see where the series goes next.