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The Lily and the Crown
Ariana “Ari” Geiker lives an isolated life on an imperial space station commanded by her father. The skilled, young botanist rarely leaves her living quarters, where she maintains an elaborate garden. When an imperious older woman is captured from a pirate ship and given to her as a slave, Ariana’s perfectly ordered life is thrown into chaos. Her nameless slave is watchful, intelligent, dangerous, and sexy, and seems to know an awful lot about tactics, star charts, and the dread, marauding pirate queen, Mir. What happens when the slave also reveals an expertise in seduction to her innocent mistress? The Lily and the Crown is a lesbian romance about daring to risk your heart with someone you shouldn’t.
241 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2017
131 people are currently reading
4551 people want to read
About the author
Roslyn Sinclair
10 books1,312 followersRoslyn Sinclair knew she was destined to be a writer when her second-grade teacher took one look at her “What I did on my summer vacation” essay and said, “You wrote a novel!” It was all over after that.
She is married to fellow sapphic romance writer Carrie Byrd. They live in the greater Philadelphia area, weathering cold winters, hot summers, pollinated springs, and crisp autumns that make it all worthwhile.
You can keep up with Roslyn by subscribing to her newsletter. Subscribers get first access to book news, exclusive giveaways and promos, and a free steamy sapphic novella.
You can find Roslyn on all of her online platforms here.
She is married to fellow sapphic romance writer Carrie Byrd. They live in the greater Philadelphia area, weathering cold winters, hot summers, pollinated springs, and crisp autumns that make it all worthwhile.
You can keep up with Roslyn by subscribing to her newsletter. Subscribers get first access to book news, exclusive giveaways and promos, and a free steamy sapphic novella.
You can find Roslyn on all of her online platforms here.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 503 reviews
December 2, 2017
I loved it! This is my kind of book and I’m a happy camper right now. First I want to say, you do not have to be a sci-fi fan to enjoy this. This book really is an epic romance with a sci-fi background. While I love sci-fi, I know it’s not everyone’s cup of tea, so don’t use that as a reason to pass this book up. If you are a steamy romance fan, than grab this book.
Ari is a botanist that lives on a space station commanded by her father. Being the daughter of the commander makes Ari a Lady, basically like royalty. But Ari lives a sheltered life and talks to her plants more than people. When her father’s forces best a pirate ship, they find the only person alive is a pirate slave. Ari, is shocked when the slave shows up at her door as a present. Ari, has never wanted a slave and doesn’t believe this proud woman in front of her should be one. However, they have no choice but to find a way to make this arrangement work. But what happens if feelings start to become involved?
I must admit I am shocked that this seems to be a debut for Sinclair. She writes liked a seasoned author, but I can’t find any other books by her. This book is not absolutely perfect, but it just really worked for my tastes. This felt like an epic love story. No isnta love here, which I am so grateful. I mentioned steamy romance, and I meant that, this book was H.O.T. at times. Steamy sex scenes that never felt boring or repetitive. Overall, I just really enjoyed this romance.
Not only was this book steamy, but it was also emotional. I was blubbering multiple times. I mean parts really tugged at my heartstrings. The main character Ari, I just loved. She was really innocent and kind and you just take this journey with her and become so invested. This book made me feel. I really cared about the outcome. That right there is the sign of a really good book to me.
This book really checked off the boxes I look for in a great romance. The fact that it was set in space, was just an added bonus for me. I easily recommend this to steamy romance fans. I’m really hopeful people are going to enjoy this as much as I did. I honestly cannot wait to see what Sinclair writes next.
Edit: I was informed in the comments, below my review, that Sinclair is aka Telanu a very talented fanfic author. It now explains why this book felt like it was written by a seasoned author, also why the romance was so good. This is her first published work and I hope we get to read many more.
An ARC was given to me by YLVA, for a honest review.
Ari is a botanist that lives on a space station commanded by her father. Being the daughter of the commander makes Ari a Lady, basically like royalty. But Ari lives a sheltered life and talks to her plants more than people. When her father’s forces best a pirate ship, they find the only person alive is a pirate slave. Ari, is shocked when the slave shows up at her door as a present. Ari, has never wanted a slave and doesn’t believe this proud woman in front of her should be one. However, they have no choice but to find a way to make this arrangement work. But what happens if feelings start to become involved?
I must admit I am shocked that this seems to be a debut for Sinclair. She writes liked a seasoned author, but I can’t find any other books by her. This book is not absolutely perfect, but it just really worked for my tastes. This felt like an epic love story. No isnta love here, which I am so grateful. I mentioned steamy romance, and I meant that, this book was H.O.T. at times. Steamy sex scenes that never felt boring or repetitive. Overall, I just really enjoyed this romance.
Not only was this book steamy, but it was also emotional. I was blubbering multiple times. I mean parts really tugged at my heartstrings. The main character Ari, I just loved. She was really innocent and kind and you just take this journey with her and become so invested. This book made me feel. I really cared about the outcome. That right there is the sign of a really good book to me.
This book really checked off the boxes I look for in a great romance. The fact that it was set in space, was just an added bonus for me. I easily recommend this to steamy romance fans. I’m really hopeful people are going to enjoy this as much as I did. I honestly cannot wait to see what Sinclair writes next.
Edit: I was informed in the comments, below my review, that Sinclair is aka Telanu a very talented fanfic author. It now explains why this book felt like it was written by a seasoned author, also why the romance was so good. This is her first published work and I hope we get to read many more.
An ARC was given to me by YLVA, for a honest review.
December 22, 2017
It seems like everyone who's into f/f fanfic is in love with Telanu. Not being a huge fan of Devil Wears Prada stories, I've decided to hold off until she publishes. This is her first published book.
The blurb mentions space stations and marauding pirates (I'm afraid those were the only words that registered in my mind when I picked the book, hehe) but this is neither sci-fi nor a space opera nor even an adventure. Well it's an adventure all right, a rather unconventional one at that, but chiefly of the romantic kind. The cover should have clued me in actually, if I had been paying more attention. :)
I was a little miffed when a few chapters in, I wasn't getting the read I expected. I wasn't sure what to make of it. The lack of any world building other than a few generalizations, the full concentration of the story on the two leads, the lack of any effort to conceal the slave's identity and the fact that no one but the reader suspects who she is, made me feel like I was reading another simply-plotted fanfic. Then at some point it turned into what felt like erotica. I wasn't really sure I was going to continue the story at that point so I paused it to start another book. When I did get back to it, I find I couldn't stop reading. The quirky, dorky, plant-loving lead character Ari had quietly grown on me like a climbing vine and taken firm hold of my heart. And so has her tough as nails and very proud slave with no name. About halfway into the book, their relationship was all that mattered to me.
So here's the thing. If you strip away all the external stuff (because let's face it, they don't really matter. You could basically transplant these two characters into any setting and it would work just as well.), this is just an unconventional love story between two highly unlikely women, who have nothing in common with regards to temperament and interests, have a huge age gap, and see the world with completely different eyes. An impossible pairing. And, an impossible task for an author. Does it work? For me, yes. The author took great pains to make it work, and that, I think, is her greatest strength. I'm definitely looking forward to the release of her other books.
I was very impressed with her portrait of the painfully shy, introverted botanist, and how she slowly blossomed bit by bit with her slave's guidance. The slave was more of a cypher but that's due to the choice of POV. I can't say the same for the plot though. It lurches from ridiculous to silly to plain unbelievable. The word cartoonish comes to mind. Let's just say this is a love story and leave it at that. :)
The trick to liking it (as I discovered a good deal into the book) is to not take the situations too seriously. I got eye roll fatigue early on so I pretty much just concentrated on the romance and the angst, and it got pretty enjoyable from that point. So much I was completely hooked to the end.
4.25 stars
ARC from Ylva
The blurb mentions space stations and marauding pirates (I'm afraid those were the only words that registered in my mind when I picked the book, hehe) but this is neither sci-fi nor a space opera nor even an adventure. Well it's an adventure all right, a rather unconventional one at that, but chiefly of the romantic kind. The cover should have clued me in actually, if I had been paying more attention. :)
I was a little miffed when a few chapters in, I wasn't getting the read I expected. I wasn't sure what to make of it. The lack of any world building other than a few generalizations, the full concentration of the story on the two leads, the lack of any effort to conceal the slave's identity and the fact that no one but the reader suspects who she is, made me feel like I was reading another simply-plotted fanfic. Then at some point it turned into what felt like erotica. I wasn't really sure I was going to continue the story at that point so I paused it to start another book. When I did get back to it, I find I couldn't stop reading. The quirky, dorky, plant-loving lead character Ari had quietly grown on me like a climbing vine and taken firm hold of my heart. And so has her tough as nails and very proud slave with no name. About halfway into the book, their relationship was all that mattered to me.
So here's the thing. If you strip away all the external stuff (because let's face it, they don't really matter. You could basically transplant these two characters into any setting and it would work just as well.), this is just an unconventional love story between two highly unlikely women, who have nothing in common with regards to temperament and interests, have a huge age gap, and see the world with completely different eyes. An impossible pairing. And, an impossible task for an author. Does it work? For me, yes. The author took great pains to make it work, and that, I think, is her greatest strength. I'm definitely looking forward to the release of her other books.
I was very impressed with her portrait of the painfully shy, introverted botanist, and how she slowly blossomed bit by bit with her slave's guidance. The slave was more of a cypher but that's due to the choice of POV. I can't say the same for the plot though. It lurches from ridiculous to silly to plain unbelievable. The word cartoonish comes to mind. Let's just say this is a love story and leave it at that. :)
The trick to liking it (as I discovered a good deal into the book) is to not take the situations too seriously. I got eye roll fatigue early on so I pretty much just concentrated on the romance and the angst, and it got pretty enjoyable from that point. So much I was completely hooked to the end.
4.25 stars
ARC from Ylva
December 19, 2017
I have to admit that I discovered this author under her fanfic name (Telanu) and have been fangirling over her work ever since. I'm so pleased to see her writing released with a professional publisher. Either as a fanfic writer or as a now published author, in my opinion, Roslyn Sinclair is one of the best writers in lesfic and readers that enjoy an f/f pairing should definitely put her on the top of their to-read list.
As for this plot, Ari plays a sweet, hermit like, almost buffoonish botanist whose life revolves around plants. Her father is captain of the ship so she's left to her own devices until a slave is thrust upon her.
The evil space pirate and nemesis, Mir, dominates the rebel landscape. Ari's father has just infiltrated and captured one of her ships which held one lone survivor, a slave. I think you can guess who that "slave" is.
What happens when the most powerful pirate in the universe and a wallflower young woman are forced together in an odd turn of circumstances?
This is actually a really poignant and bittersweet story with romance, erotica, and humor that is set against a very non-technical sci-fi background. Romance fans should particularly enjoy this while sci-fi fans get just enough of a hit to add an extra bit of pleasure.
Ari is a sweet and engaging narrator and the book is from her point of view. I don't laugh out loud often and I cry even less when I read and this one managed to make me do both. Ari is such a sympathetic character one can't help being moved by her. And, upon a third read, this book managed to make me cry AGAIN.
For those that are familiar with the first unpublished draft of this story, Roslyn Sinclair added some new scenes while fleshing out others so "The Lily and the Crown" at its core is easily recognizable yet not the same read. It's worth picking up this new version. In particular, she laid out another intelligence of Ari's and included more scenes to show Ari's strength, despite her wallflower demeanor, and gives more reasons for Mir's attraction to her.
Yes, definitely read this book.
And for those that have read this version and are interested in Mir's point of view, Roslyn Sinclair has a short story "Water into Wine". It was written for the 1st draft so it's a little out of sync with the published version but Mir's motivation is still accurate if you're left wondering WHY she'd fall for someone like Ari. Or, if you want a taste of what this author has to offer, take a look. Just know this will have spoilers: https://archiveofourown.org/works/750450
As for this plot, Ari plays a sweet, hermit like, almost buffoonish botanist whose life revolves around plants. Her father is captain of the ship so she's left to her own devices until a slave is thrust upon her.
The evil space pirate and nemesis, Mir, dominates the rebel landscape. Ari's father has just infiltrated and captured one of her ships which held one lone survivor, a slave. I think you can guess who that "slave" is.
What happens when the most powerful pirate in the universe and a wallflower young woman are forced together in an odd turn of circumstances?
This is actually a really poignant and bittersweet story with romance, erotica, and humor that is set against a very non-technical sci-fi background. Romance fans should particularly enjoy this while sci-fi fans get just enough of a hit to add an extra bit of pleasure.
Ari is a sweet and engaging narrator and the book is from her point of view. I don't laugh out loud often and I cry even less when I read and this one managed to make me do both. Ari is such a sympathetic character one can't help being moved by her. And, upon a third read, this book managed to make me cry AGAIN.
For those that are familiar with the first unpublished draft of this story, Roslyn Sinclair added some new scenes while fleshing out others so "The Lily and the Crown" at its core is easily recognizable yet not the same read. It's worth picking up this new version. In particular, she laid out another intelligence of Ari's and included more scenes to show Ari's strength, despite her wallflower demeanor, and gives more reasons for Mir's attraction to her.
Yes, definitely read this book.
And for those that have read this version and are interested in Mir's point of view, Roslyn Sinclair has a short story "Water into Wine". It was written for the 1st draft so it's a little out of sync with the published version but Mir's motivation is still accurate if you're left wondering WHY she'd fall for someone like Ari. Or, if you want a taste of what this author has to offer, take a look. Just know this will have spoilers: https://archiveofourown.org/works/750450
April 6, 2019
I am most certainly not a sci-fi fan, at all.... no star trekking, no live long and prospering, no klingons or space jam or black holes or light rays or fraggles (actually fraggles were pretty cool....the Doozers? amazing creatures). It's just never held my interest. But I was gifted this book and gave it a go, and I gotta say I was pleasantly surprised! We know the setting is some other planetary system that immediately made no sense to me because my mind just doesn't go there, but it isn't the main part of the story, so if you are like me, it can be somewhat glazed over.
The book is well written and the story did hold my interest throughout. The circumstances in which the two MCs are paired is unique, though it was highly amusing to me that Ari was so clueless as to just who Assistant was. However the author did do a good job in creating Ari to be a loner who cares more about her botany than the outside world, so I'll give her the benefit of the doubt. Ari was sweet and kind and had a strong sense of what is right and wrong, and I did empathize with her feelings of loneliness. . However I liked Assistant's character very much actually, she was mysterious and sexy as hell. The sex scenes were quite detailed and erotic and had me squirming for more than one reason......
....and that reason would be both from being turned on but also turned off by the age gap. I'm a fan of age gap romances, totally fine, but this one was a wee bit much for me at around 30 years. That's just too many decades b/w them for me to believe that a strong, manipulative ruthless, experienced and gorgeous pirate queen who has probably had many women fall at her feet, and can take whomever she wants, falls for a 20 year old naive air-head of a botanist who could barely string a sentence together. I reeeaalllyy had to stretch the imagination for that. I also really despised the epilogue, it seemed rushed and I wonder why the last few sentences were from some random male's point of view that we had never seen before. Seemed odd
(Guys I made it through a whole review without swearing or mentioning booze!! Oh wait....well, shit.)
The book is well written and the story did hold my interest throughout. The circumstances in which the two MCs are paired is unique, though it was highly amusing to me that Ari was so clueless as to just who Assistant was. However the author did do a good job in creating Ari to be a loner who cares more about her botany than the outside world, so I'll give her the benefit of the doubt. Ari was sweet and kind and had a strong sense of what is right and wrong, and I did empathize with her feelings of loneliness. . However I liked Assistant's character very much actually, she was mysterious and sexy as hell. The sex scenes were quite detailed and erotic and had me squirming for more than one reason......
....and that reason would be both from being turned on but also turned off by the age gap. I'm a fan of age gap romances, totally fine, but this one was a wee bit much for me at around 30 years. That's just too many decades b/w them for me to believe that a strong, manipulative ruthless, experienced and gorgeous pirate queen who has probably had many women fall at her feet, and can take whomever she wants, falls for a 20 year old naive air-head of a botanist who could barely string a sentence together. I reeeaalllyy had to stretch the imagination for that. I also really despised the epilogue, it seemed rushed and I wonder why the last few sentences were from some random male's point of view that we had never seen before. Seemed odd
(Guys I made it through a whole review without swearing or mentioning booze!! Oh wait....well, shit.)
December 11, 2017
An exceptionally good read. Roslyn Sinclair aka Telanu is a great storyteller.
5 stars
Dec 11, 2017
5 stars
Dec 11, 2017
May 1, 2018
4 Stars. Loved it. It is a romance on a space station between two very opposite characters. I won't say too much as I'm late to read this published version and others such as Lex Kent, Jem, lov2laf etc. have written excellent reviews.
I first read this about 4 yrs ago when it was a fanfic by Tenalu. At the time I just thought it was OK. I can't remember enough to compare the two stories but it felt different. This started out as a Devil Wears Prada Uber fanfic. Uber fanfic if you are not familiar with the term takes the essence of the characters and places them in another time, another place, or another reality (Wikipedia). This was a quintessential Uber. However, in this novel, it reads more like an original story and I liked it much more. I wish I could tell you what changes Sinclair made but I would have to re-read the original and I would rather just re-read this book!
I will also say that I loved the characterization of the two main characters, especially Ari. She is a brilliant scientist yet very introverted and focused, sequestering herself in her quarters that contains a massive garden that she tends and studies on the space station. Her plants and her pet insects are her only companions. Although she grows in this book, becoming more aware of the politics and life outside her quarters, her essence doesn't change. Circumstances devastates and disillusions Ari, yet she remained kind as she gained strength.
Anyway, I'm late to the party. If you haven't joined - I highly recommend you give this a try.
I first read this about 4 yrs ago when it was a fanfic by Tenalu. At the time I just thought it was OK. I can't remember enough to compare the two stories but it felt different. This started out as a Devil Wears Prada Uber fanfic. Uber fanfic if you are not familiar with the term takes the essence of the characters and places them in another time, another place, or another reality (Wikipedia). This was a quintessential Uber. However, in this novel, it reads more like an original story and I liked it much more. I wish I could tell you what changes Sinclair made but I would have to re-read the original and I would rather just re-read this book!
I will also say that I loved the characterization of the two main characters, especially Ari. She is a brilliant scientist yet very introverted and focused, sequestering herself in her quarters that contains a massive garden that she tends and studies on the space station. Her plants and her pet insects are her only companions. Although she grows in this book, becoming more aware of the politics and life outside her quarters, her essence doesn't change. Circumstances devastates and disillusions Ari, yet she remained kind as she gained strength.
Anyway, I'm late to the party. If you haven't joined - I highly recommend you give this a try.
October 24, 2018
I'm lucky, these few days, I got a heroine who worked as a fishmonger and Ariana in this story was a botanist and absolutely passionate in her job.
Ariana and Assistant lived in a bubble of their own after their first awkward and funny meeting,
surrounded by plants and garden insects. They were intrigued with one another but thankfully instead of making googly eyes+thinking of lovey dovey thoughts, they worked on Ariana's clever projects, bickered and bantered. Every scene of them together were supercalifragilisticexpialidocious.
After their first intimate scene, this dialogue was unexpected and grinned worthy. 👇
"You’re snoring,” Ari said. “What?” Assistant sounded blank and sleepy. Then, “I am not.” “You were too. Right in my ear. You woke me up.” “I don’t snore,” Assistant said, still sounding out of it. “Go back to sleep.” “I can���t sleep when you snore!” Ari protested.
Assistant loved to talk during steamy scenes, the talks+what she was doing to Ariana were unsuitable to be devoured in public.
I was waiting for their bubble to be popped and when it happened, my heart broke for Ariana again and again. For an awesome botanist and sometimes spitfire especially when it comes to Assistant, she didn't deserve such scenes.
The last part of the story was dragged out a bit, I was over the moon excited when they reconciled but there were still some major issues for them to sort out before ultimately reaching their....
Ms.Sinclair - the epilogue, I would have loved it even more if it was from Mir's POV, but it was still greatly appreciated.
This book is unavailable on KU/Scribd.
Kindle price USD9.99
Ariana and Assistant lived in a bubble of their own after their first awkward and funny meeting,
surrounded by plants and garden insects. They were intrigued with one another but thankfully instead of making googly eyes+thinking of lovey dovey thoughts, they worked on Ariana's clever projects, bickered and bantered. Every scene of them together were supercalifragilisticexpialidocious.
After their first intimate scene, this dialogue was unexpected and grinned worthy. 👇
"You’re snoring,” Ari said. “What?” Assistant sounded blank and sleepy. Then, “I am not.” “You were too. Right in my ear. You woke me up.” “I don’t snore,” Assistant said, still sounding out of it. “Go back to sleep.” “I can���t sleep when you snore!” Ari protested.
Assistant loved to talk during steamy scenes, the talks+what she was doing to Ariana were unsuitable to be devoured in public.
I was waiting for their bubble to be popped and when it happened, my heart broke for Ariana again and again. For an awesome botanist and sometimes spitfire especially when it comes to Assistant, she didn't deserve such scenes.
The last part of the story was dragged out a bit, I was over the moon excited when they reconciled but there were still some major issues for them to sort out before ultimately reaching their....
Ms.Sinclair - the epilogue, I would have loved it even more if it was from Mir's POV, but it was still greatly appreciated.
This book is unavailable on KU/Scribd.
Kindle price USD9.99
November 16, 2021
Ari!
Five stars giving me a sci-fi romance I actually like. This story is set on a planet that isn't earth and the protagonist, Ari, is the daughter of the imperial station master guarding it from space pirates. Ari caught my attention within the first ten minutes of the audiobook because of how mismatched her status and demeanor are. Despite her ladyship status, Ari is unique and is a complete odd ball living in a warring universe. She's socially awkward and is a recluse who spends all her time tending to plants, and most importantly, she's extremely benevolent and innocent. I spent a lot of time enjoying Ari's awkward interactions with her new slave, whom she nicknames "Assistant", because she's too nice to call anyone "slave" or force a name on them, and she's too cute when she tries to maintain some form of equilibrum in her relationship with Assistant but fails. Basically, Ari is so special, she stole the show.
The romance is interesting. Because of how innocent, young and inexperienced Ari is, Assistant is a lot more proactive in initiating sexual contact. And frankly speaking, the seduction startled me a bit, because Assistant is on the other end of the scale when it comes to personality and she is manipulative. That being said, I know how different that universe is, and in all fairness, Assistant is what Ari needs in a partner. So, if I were to switch my moral compass off, yes, the chemistry between them is fantastic and I can understand why Assistant's character can be considered charming.
This is my first book narrated by the great Angela Dawe and I totally get why she's so popular. She's so good!
Five stars giving me a sci-fi romance I actually like. This story is set on a planet that isn't earth and the protagonist, Ari, is the daughter of the imperial station master guarding it from space pirates. Ari caught my attention within the first ten minutes of the audiobook because of how mismatched her status and demeanor are. Despite her ladyship status, Ari is unique and is a complete odd ball living in a warring universe. She's socially awkward and is a recluse who spends all her time tending to plants, and most importantly, she's extremely benevolent and innocent. I spent a lot of time enjoying Ari's awkward interactions with her new slave, whom she nicknames "Assistant", because she's too nice to call anyone "slave" or force a name on them, and she's too cute when she tries to maintain some form of equilibrum in her relationship with Assistant but fails. Basically, Ari is so special, she stole the show.
The romance is interesting. Because of how innocent, young and inexperienced Ari is, Assistant is a lot more proactive in initiating sexual contact. And frankly speaking, the seduction startled me a bit, because Assistant is on the other end of the scale when it comes to personality and she is manipulative. That being said, I know how different that universe is, and in all fairness, Assistant is what Ari needs in a partner. So, if I were to switch my moral compass off, yes, the chemistry between them is fantastic and I can understand why Assistant's character can be considered charming.
This is my first book narrated by the great Angela Dawe and I totally get why she's so popular. She's so good!
January 3, 2024
You know that feeling you get after you've finished reading a book and you feel this blissful feeling hugging your soul. Well, That's how I feel right now. Roslyn Sinclair's The Lily and The Crown is a total recommendation. Holy damn. wow.
Taming The Beast
She didn't tame the beast but she still did.
Thawing The Ice Queen
Mir still remained icey but still with a softer edge. I loved it.
I loved the pace, the writing, so emotional and a little bit real but to an extent that is wonderful.
Taming The Beast
She didn't tame the beast but she still did.
Thawing The Ice Queen
Mir still remained icey but still with a softer edge. I loved it.
I loved the pace, the writing, so emotional and a little bit real but to an extent that is wonderful.
July 18, 2023
Edit after reread:
Not much to add, only that I loved this book! Sinclair did a really good job creating this world and characters, and I would LOVE it if we got a sequel! Hint hint 😉 Like I said in my original review, I'd love to see those 8 years between the ending and the epilogue. Or even a continuation of the epilogue. Loved it!
Original review:
I loved this book! I need a prequel about Mír and how she became the Pirate Queen immediately please and thank you!
Ari was so sweet and innocent it was almost painful to see all the ways 'Assistant' ran rings around her. I loved her characterisation, her naivety, her way of seeing good in everything, her devotion to her plants. I loved that she advocated for the slaves too. She was a great character!
'Assistant' was fantastic too. Her real identity is obvious from the get go, and it hovers over all of her's and Ari's interactions in a way that should be ominous, but isn't. It's obvious she quickly becomes taken with Ari, even if she doesn't realise it herself, and their romantic journey was well done, with a good balance of physical and emotional scenes.
I really enjoyed the epilogue, but no spoilers! Like a prequel, I'd also love to read a story about the time between the end of the book and the epilogue.
I can't wait to read more from this author!
Not much to add, only that I loved this book! Sinclair did a really good job creating this world and characters, and I would LOVE it if we got a sequel! Hint hint 😉 Like I said in my original review, I'd love to see those 8 years between the ending and the epilogue. Or even a continuation of the epilogue. Loved it!
Original review:
I loved this book! I need a prequel about Mír and how she became the Pirate Queen immediately please and thank you!
Ari was so sweet and innocent it was almost painful to see all the ways 'Assistant' ran rings around her. I loved her characterisation, her naivety, her way of seeing good in everything, her devotion to her plants. I loved that she advocated for the slaves too. She was a great character!
'Assistant' was fantastic too. Her real identity is obvious from the get go, and it hovers over all of her's and Ari's interactions in a way that should be ominous, but isn't. It's obvious she quickly becomes taken with Ari, even if she doesn't realise it herself, and their romantic journey was well done, with a good balance of physical and emotional scenes.
I really enjoyed the epilogue, but no spoilers! Like a prequel, I'd also love to read a story about the time between the end of the book and the epilogue.
I can't wait to read more from this author!
February 26, 2018
I was keen to read this first published release by the famous fanfic author Telanu. Her Devil Wears Prada tributes are legendary and I am a big fan of thawing Ice Queens so assumed this would be a perfect read for me. Maybe it was the pirates, maybe it was the utter dominance of one character over another but I didn’t enjoy this read as much as I hoped I would. No question the writing is first rate, and yes, the emotional impact of some later scenes had me getting teary eyed for Ariana but I never bought into the notion that no one on the ship had a clue as to Assistant's true identity. When you don’t buy into a plot it is hard to get enthusiastic over plot resolution. Instead of a love story, the story felt more predatory than romantic.
ARC received from publisher for review.
ARC received from publisher for review.
January 12, 2025
“I have to have you,” she said, almost gently, as if she was breaking bad news to someone. “You have to be mine. You are mine.”
REREAD 2025. What is there to say that I haven't already? God, this is one of my favourite romances ever, and after this reread, I think it's probably a contender for one of my favourite books ever? It's definitely in my top 3 romances, at least. Which, uh, probably says a lot about me. This isn't healthy and I don't care; I would risk it all for both these women but especially Assistant. I swoon every step of the way, and even when it's unconventional, the author goes above and beyond in making me believe that they're soulmates. I listened to the audiobook as read by Angela Dawe, which, as far as I'm concerned, is the only way to experience this. Her voice for Assistant makes me WEAK. Ugh, I think I might have to make this an annual reread; I adore it so much. SO MUCH!
--
When Ari opened her eyes, the first thing she saw was a splendidly potted and cared-for Barmensis nobu sitting on a small table across from her bed.
REREAD 2022. I read this for the first time only about six months ago, but I felt like I just had to reread it before the end of the year to see if it holds up as my favourite read of 2022. And unless something really good comes along in the next couple of weeks, it is. I adore this so so much. Everything I want in romance, with a dynamic and dialogue that just send me out of my mind. I feel like this could easily turn into a comfort read for me, like turning on a radio and just hearing all of my favourite hits play one after the next. I'm just so amazed and impressed that this book took so many things that I usually don't really like (the main character having very little interactions with anyone other than the love interest, a plot that involves the reader being aware of a plot twist long before the character, an age gap that's bigger than what I usually enjoy) and put it into a story and romance that I'm just obsessed with. This is an all-time favourite for sure.
--
“Don’t ask me to let you go. Do you understand? Do not ask me.”
When was the last time I started a book, and within the first chapter I already knew it was going to be a 5 star? I don't know! It's probably never happened before! The thing is, this book comprises so many things and situations that I normally wouldn't like or love, but somehow... this was perfect, holy crap. Obviously not perfect perfect, but perfect in so many ways that I don't care about the flaws. It's the best argument I could think to make for continuing to give things a try even if they aren't my favourite.
It's a sci-fi romance that takes place aboard an imperial space station. Ariana is the captain's eccentric, nerdy botanist daughter, and one day her father makes her a gift of a slave who was captured from an infamous pirate queen's ship. Her new slave is a cold, proud, wilful and darkly charming older woman who has no name; Ari takes to simply calling her 'Assistant', as she hates the practice of slavery and the thought of having one. This book started its life as fanfiction, which I could immediately tell, and I immediately loved. (Even though I've never seen TDWP. I know, I know, I'm probably the last gay in the village not to have.) Even though I don't read much fic these days, there's just something I truly love about fic writers' approach to romance. There was great development and chemistry and spark, and even though I'm THEE slow burn fanatic, I honestly didn't mind that this got steamy before the 50% mark. I kind of loved it. This is trope reversal in the way I love it best. Assistant is ostensibly a slave, but Ari only has power over her on paper, because she's dominant in every other way. I just adore this kind of intense love, first love, love that kind of edges into co-dependency. Not the healthiest thing! But I love it because they're both aware of it, even if they fight it to different degrees. They become everything to each other, and I believed it. One of my favourite types of dynamics. Also, it's D/s written in exactly the way I like it.
“There is no ‘should,’” Assistant said softly. “Not when it comes to this. Forget ‘should.’” She stroked Ari’s back, and Ari shivered. “Trust me,” she murmured. “Trust me.”
The big thing about this book that I usually wouldn't like is that we, as the readers, are aware of a certain detail from pretty much the start of the book, and Ari, our only POV character, has no clue. It's not something that should be obvious to her; it's just something that's clear to us because, well, we're reading a book, and we know how these things work. I usually hate that, having info and waiting for the characters to catch on. I'm pretty sure I mentioned it a few reviews ago. But I loved it in this case, because it dealt with identity, and was a great source of tension. Another thing I usually don't like is super naïve characters. I don't mind innocence at all, but only up to a point. However, I found Ariana's naïveté to be charming and sweet and lovely, not at all annoying, because it was balanced with her intelligence and strength of character. I truly truly loved her. As for Assistant... 🧘🏿♀️ Like, I am so finicky about ice queens, but I think the reason why she worked for me is because of the sci-fi setting and the darkness of the world. Even though we don't learn a lot about her until later, the author manages to skilfully convey that this is a hard, immoral, unyielding woman, and she's that way because the world she grew up in made her that way. And so, every little bit she thawed for Ari, every tiny bit of flexibility she showed... UGH I loved it. The way she talked to Ariana and understood her... ahhhhhh. I even loved their misunderstandings, and how they were eventually resolved. There's a power imbalance, but it worked for me, in a way I don't think it would have worked in a contemporary romance.
Listened to the audiobook as read by Angela Dawe, and she's really the reason this is a full 5 stars. I've always liked her narration, but something about this was extra sublime. I adored her voices for both characters, but especially Assistant. Her pacing and delivery were perfect, and she put so much emotion into certain parts... I was ready to cry on multiple occasions. I really loved it, and I'm glad this book was a buy and not a borrow, because I know I want to revisit it. God this was just a delight. Favourite thing I've read this year. I can't wait to read more from Sinclair.
Content warnings: .
The experience is better lived than not / better the bones than the untilled grave.
March 27, 2021
Review of The Lily and The Crown by Roslyn Sinclair, Audiobook narrated by Angela Dawe
When I heard that The Lily and the Crown, the fantastic debut novel by Roslyn Sinclair was being released on audiobook narrated by voice actor extraordinaire Angela Dawe, I rushed to get it. This novel was in my top ten of 2017 and the audiobook is undoubtedly going to be among my favourites of this year.
This is a sci-fi story in which the universe is ruled by a human empire under the attack of both pirates and extraterrestrials. In this context, Ariana is a recluse botanist, daughter of a space station commander. Her world is turned upside down when she is given a slave to assist her. The nameless slave is beautiful, intelligent and sexy and will change Ariana’s life forever.
Based on the fan fiction of ’The Devil Wears Prada’, it has its typical traits: opposites-attract, age-gap romance, ice queen, workplace setting. This book is mainly a character-driven romance with a sci-fi story in the background.
Written from the point of view of Ariana, the story mainly focuses on her relationship with ‘Assistant’ – as she calls her slave – and is set mostly in the botanist’s garden. Ariana is 20 years old, an innocent believer in human virtue, while ‘Assistant’ is beyond 40, a streetwise and conflicted character. They couldn’t have been any different though somehow they complement each other perfectly. It is interesting to see how the dynamic mistress-slave changes as their bond grow closer. Ms. Sinclair presents the characters in all their imperfect, contradictory layers, with intense chemistry and deep humanity.
Angela Dawe’s narration is outstanding as usual and does justice to the story. She really brings the characters to life, not only by their different voices but by the performance of their opposing personalities. It’s a pleasure to listen to Ms. Dawe switching in the dialogues between the sweet, naive Arianna and the icy, sarcastic Assistant. Her performance is a fantastic tour de force that enriches the story and brings it into life with a compelling quality. Flawless. 5+ stars.
Length: 9 hours, 29 minutes
When I heard that The Lily and the Crown, the fantastic debut novel by Roslyn Sinclair was being released on audiobook narrated by voice actor extraordinaire Angela Dawe, I rushed to get it. This novel was in my top ten of 2017 and the audiobook is undoubtedly going to be among my favourites of this year.
This is a sci-fi story in which the universe is ruled by a human empire under the attack of both pirates and extraterrestrials. In this context, Ariana is a recluse botanist, daughter of a space station commander. Her world is turned upside down when she is given a slave to assist her. The nameless slave is beautiful, intelligent and sexy and will change Ariana’s life forever.
Based on the fan fiction of ’The Devil Wears Prada’, it has its typical traits: opposites-attract, age-gap romance, ice queen, workplace setting. This book is mainly a character-driven romance with a sci-fi story in the background.
Written from the point of view of Ariana, the story mainly focuses on her relationship with ‘Assistant’ – as she calls her slave – and is set mostly in the botanist’s garden. Ariana is 20 years old, an innocent believer in human virtue, while ‘Assistant’ is beyond 40, a streetwise and conflicted character. They couldn’t have been any different though somehow they complement each other perfectly. It is interesting to see how the dynamic mistress-slave changes as their bond grow closer. Ms. Sinclair presents the characters in all their imperfect, contradictory layers, with intense chemistry and deep humanity.
Angela Dawe’s narration is outstanding as usual and does justice to the story. She really brings the characters to life, not only by their different voices but by the performance of their opposing personalities. It’s a pleasure to listen to Ms. Dawe switching in the dialogues between the sweet, naive Arianna and the icy, sarcastic Assistant. Her performance is a fantastic tour de force that enriches the story and brings it into life with a compelling quality. Flawless. 5+ stars.
Length: 9 hours, 29 minutes
December 5, 2017
ARC received from YLVA for a fair review.
4.4 stars. It's a good book, get it now. As other reviewers have already pointed it out, you don't have to be a sci-fi fan to enjoy this book. There are no space fights, no description of tech things like flying space ships or handling scanners. This is a pure romance story and the sci-fi theme serves just as a backdrop but the story wouldn't really work in a different genre either so it's use is justified.
The story is character driven so for most of the book we get to see them interact on some level. It works out well, both leading women are well developed - the shy and naive botanist is endearing and pirate queen really comes off as a ruthless ruffian with a soft spot.
One thing I can't stand in my lesfic is insta love and I'am glad to write that it is not the case in this book. Their unlikely friendship and then love is believable. Many topics are explored like communication or lack of it, differences of opinion, power balance in a relationship and settling for less when you shouldn't and so on. It was all handled well.
And the sex scenes were majorly HOT. I don't recall when was the last time I read a book with sex that good so props for that.
My only nitpick about this work is the first person view, I like my stories written from the third person. Often I wanted to know what's happening inside Mir's head and what's she thinking about Ariana or her dire situation being enslaved and all. And I didn't get that which is why it's not a 5 star book for me.
But other than that it's a truly good read.
4.4 stars. It's a good book, get it now. As other reviewers have already pointed it out, you don't have to be a sci-fi fan to enjoy this book. There are no space fights, no description of tech things like flying space ships or handling scanners. This is a pure romance story and the sci-fi theme serves just as a backdrop but the story wouldn't really work in a different genre either so it's use is justified.
The story is character driven so for most of the book we get to see them interact on some level. It works out well, both leading women are well developed - the shy and naive botanist is endearing and pirate queen really comes off as a ruthless ruffian with a soft spot.
One thing I can't stand in my lesfic is insta love and I'am glad to write that it is not the case in this book. Their unlikely friendship and then love is believable. Many topics are explored like communication or lack of it, differences of opinion, power balance in a relationship and settling for less when you shouldn't and so on. It was all handled well.
And the sex scenes were majorly HOT. I don't recall when was the last time I read a book with sex that good so props for that.
My only nitpick about this work is the first person view, I like my stories written from the third person. Often I wanted to know what's happening inside Mir's head and what's she thinking about Ariana or her dire situation being enslaved and all. And I didn't get that which is why it's not a 5 star book for me.
But other than that it's a truly good read.
September 5, 2020
Well written, but you can definitely tell it was originally a Devil Wears Prada fanfic that's been rehashed and tweaked.
I personally wanted more SciFi. As another review said it all felt like it was building to something, but then just never went anywhere. There was no payoff. The location in which the story takes place ends up being completely irrelevant. What a wasted opportunity.
I also didn't like the power imbalance. Mer seemed way too predatory towards the incredibly naive Ari. Even if she was a 'slave' she took advantage.
Especially at the end with Mers demand. Ick. Dom/Sub type power plays aren't my thing unless theres fully informed consent about it beforehand.
Ari was so sheltered and innocent, and the age gap so great and their backgrounds so vastly different. I just don't get their connection, other than an unhealthy codependency. Maybe it's my armchair psychology coming into play.
I personally wanted more SciFi. As another review said it all felt like it was building to something, but then just never went anywhere. There was no payoff. The location in which the story takes place ends up being completely irrelevant. What a wasted opportunity.
I also didn't like the power imbalance. Mer seemed way too predatory towards the incredibly naive Ari. Even if she was a 'slave' she took advantage.
Especially at the end with Mers demand. Ick. Dom/Sub type power plays aren't my thing unless theres fully informed consent about it beforehand.
Ari was so sheltered and innocent, and the age gap so great and their backgrounds so vastly different. I just don't get their connection, other than an unhealthy codependency. Maybe it's my armchair psychology coming into play.
December 5, 2017
In an interview with Lee Winter, Roslyn said she added 20K+ words to her original DWP fan fic written under pen name Telanu. So in the re-reading I tried to figure out where it went :) There were a few scenes added for sure, which adds to the depth of Ari's aversion to slavery.
Ari the botonist, meet Mir the... slave/sole survivor of a pirate ship attack. Set in a sci-fi background, but it pretty much stops there. So non sci-fi folks don't need to worry. Loved it this summer when I listened to it via my voice app on my phone and loved it again in this YLVA release.
Ari the botonist, meet Mir the... slave/sole survivor of a pirate ship attack. Set in a sci-fi background, but it pretty much stops there. So non sci-fi folks don't need to worry. Loved it this summer when I listened to it via my voice app on my phone and loved it again in this YLVA release.
November 6, 2018
When Book Club buddy D. and I read Telanu’s fanfic version of The Lily and the Crown around this time last year, the published version was not far behind. So I had to take a sufficient break before I could tackle it again and therefore am a bit late in the game giving a review. The published version is of course padded out a bit but I thought the added material made the book even better.
The story is set in a space station but other than that, the sci-fi part is almost non-existent. The romance is key and that is what Roslyn Sinclair gives you in spades. She does character studies so very very well.
Lady Ariana (Ari) Geiker is a nerdy introvert botanist, living on a space station where her father is the stationmaster. She spends her days tucked away in her quarters tending her beloved garden. Not being very good with people she bonds with her plants (at least they don’t leave her like everyone else did in her life). After her mother died when she was 7, the relationship with her father became strained making him almost a stranger to her.
Mír is a ruthless pirate queen spearheading a successful rebellion against the Empire. She is bigger than life itself, the stuff of legend really. For is she even real? Nobody has ever seen her.
Ari’s life changes abruptly when her father gives her a slave, the sole survivor from one of Mír’s raided pirate vessels. This older woman, who carries herself unlike any slave she’s ever seen becomes a fixture in Ariana’s life. Living and working together, ‘Assistant’ shows Ari that there are other things to enjoy in life besides keeping the company of plants.
f/f explicit
Themes: I love how we discover the joy of sex through the eyes of Ari, she is so adorably awkward, and Assistant’s exasperated comments are hilarious.
5 stars
The story is set in a space station but other than that, the sci-fi part is almost non-existent. The romance is key and that is what Roslyn Sinclair gives you in spades. She does character studies so very very well.
Lady Ariana (Ari) Geiker is a nerdy introvert botanist, living on a space station where her father is the stationmaster. She spends her days tucked away in her quarters tending her beloved garden. Not being very good with people she bonds with her plants (at least they don’t leave her like everyone else did in her life). After her mother died when she was 7, the relationship with her father became strained making him almost a stranger to her.
Mír is a ruthless pirate queen spearheading a successful rebellion against the Empire. She is bigger than life itself, the stuff of legend really. For is she even real? Nobody has ever seen her.
Ari’s life changes abruptly when her father gives her a slave, the sole survivor from one of Mír’s raided pirate vessels. This older woman, who carries herself unlike any slave she’s ever seen becomes a fixture in Ariana’s life. Living and working together, ‘Assistant’ shows Ari that there are other things to enjoy in life besides keeping the company of plants.
f/f explicit
Themes: I love how we discover the joy of sex through the eyes of Ari, she is so adorably awkward, and Assistant’s exasperated comments are hilarious.
5 stars
December 2, 2018
If the brilliant, scathing older woman/sweet, lovely younger woman pairing sounds familiar, The Lily and the Crown started out as a popular Devil Wears Prada fanfic (and if you all know anything about me and my fanfic tastes, it’s that I adore the DWP fandom). Roslyn Sinclair did a fabulous job of fleshing these women out and making them her own, taking them on the most delicious of character arcs. Assistant is the ultimate ice queen, and watching her melt through Ari’s eyes works very well, while at the same time we watch Ari develop a strength she never dreamed she’d be able to have.
Full review (The Lesbian Review): https://www.thelesbianreview.com/the-...
Full review (Curve Magazine): http://www.curvemag.com/Reviews/The-L...
Full review (The Lesbian Review): https://www.thelesbianreview.com/the-...
Full review (Curve Magazine): http://www.curvemag.com/Reviews/The-L...
January 15, 2018
I struggled initially to see Ariana and Assistant as Andy and Miranda so I abandoned that thought within the first 10% and let the story build the characters for me. I’ve read The X Ingredient and a couple of others by Telanu but they were all set in the bounds of The Devil Wears Prada so I guess this was my first uber DWP.
There are so many power imbalances in this story that make it a dynamic and quite intense read. Lady Ariana is given a slave by her father, the only survivor from a captured pirate ship. Ari is in the position of power with or without her assent. The slave refuses to be given a name so Ari decides to call her Assistant and while that looks like Ari has more power, Assistant’s refusal to give even her name to Ari puts Assistant in a position of power. Ariana is young, sheltered, guileless and naïve where Assistant is older, worldly, proud, distant and scheming.
Ariana has her head in the clouds, or rather, in her garden. She is a botanist and has no real interest in anything beyond her plants until Assistant comes along. Assistant is grounded, practical, sensible and ensures that Ari eats regular meals (almost setting up a parent/child exchange).
With all these differences and power dynamics, and this is just some of them, how can there be any meaningful depth to a relationship? Halfway through it didn’t think there could be but by three quarters of the way through,
I'm really pleased Roslyn Sinclair has been published. Fantastic read!
There are so many power imbalances in this story that make it a dynamic and quite intense read. Lady Ariana is given a slave by her father, the only survivor from a captured pirate ship. Ari is in the position of power with or without her assent. The slave refuses to be given a name so Ari decides to call her Assistant and while that looks like Ari has more power, Assistant’s refusal to give even her name to Ari puts Assistant in a position of power. Ariana is young, sheltered, guileless and naïve where Assistant is older, worldly, proud, distant and scheming.
Ariana has her head in the clouds, or rather, in her garden. She is a botanist and has no real interest in anything beyond her plants until Assistant comes along. Assistant is grounded, practical, sensible and ensures that Ari eats regular meals (almost setting up a parent/child exchange).
With all these differences and power dynamics, and this is just some of them, how can there be any meaningful depth to a relationship? Halfway through it didn’t think there could be but by three quarters of the way through,
I'm really pleased Roslyn Sinclair has been published. Fantastic read!
April 29, 2024
Roslyn Sinclair has fast become one of my very favorite authors in this genre. This superbly realized opposites-attract, forced-proximity romance hits all the spots. The sci-fi element is very soft but provides an interesting backdrop to highlight the differences between the two leads. The initial slow burn pays off really well and the ending as with all Ms. Sinclair’s books is neat and satisfying.
I loved it!
I loved it!
December 24, 2017
Well written but I wasn't blown away.
Initially I thought it was because I've never read any DWP fanfic and maybe it was because the pairing of Miranda and Andy just didn't do it for me. That's not the case however since "the brutal truth" by Lee Winter is on my all times favorite list.
I think for me what makes me not get completely lost in this book is that aside from the fact that i'm not a sci-fi fan, I just never was able to warm up to Assistant/. There is such a world of difference between her and the sweet and downright naive Ari. To me it just felt like the (emotional) gap between them was too large. Sure they had great sexual chemistry but it wasn't enough to convince me that these two women belonged together.
The author does seem to have a huge following among lesfic readers so hopefully it won't be too long before she has another novel published. Maybe then i'll be able to consider myself a fan but for now I remain on the sidelines.
Initially I thought it was because I've never read any DWP fanfic and maybe it was because the pairing of Miranda and Andy just didn't do it for me. That's not the case however since "the brutal truth" by Lee Winter is on my all times favorite list.
I think for me what makes me not get completely lost in this book is that aside from the fact that i'm not a sci-fi fan, I just never was able to warm up to Assistant/. There is such a world of difference between her and the sweet and downright naive Ari. To me it just felt like the (emotional) gap between them was too large. Sure they had great sexual chemistry but it wasn't enough to convince me that these two women belonged together.
The author does seem to have a huge following among lesfic readers so hopefully it won't be too long before she has another novel published. Maybe then i'll be able to consider myself a fan but for now I remain on the sidelines.
December 20, 2017
I have mixed feelings about this book. The romance part was good, I guess. But the sci-fi part was almost nonexistent. On top of that, there was something going on regarding the Empire, the galaxy, the pirates/rebels... and we were told very little about it. Actually we were told nothing about it.
July 29, 2024
I was so obsessed with the story, I have to give it a five! ❣️
May 10, 2018
This book was truly exceptional. Truly.
Arianna lives on a space station where her father is the stationmaster. She keeps to herself and spends most of her time in her vast living quarters where she tends to her plants and trees that she has come to see as her children.
When Arianna’s father gifts her a slave woman that he has just been captured from a pirate ship, she is overwhelmed with 1. sharing her space that has always been her solitude and 2. her growing attraction to the slave. Arianna begins to rely on her slave and the simple life they share is one to be admired. But when Arianna’s life is tipped on its axis will she be able to keep the woman she loves? Or will she, like everything in Arianna’s life, be taken away?
What a truly wonderful story. Beautiful actually. It’s written solely from Arianna’s point of view, which I’m not normally keen on but I understood why Roslyn Sinclair wrote it in such a way, as it gave much more angst by not having both protagonists thought processes. This being said, the character of Slave/Assistant was so forthright that it was never an area where I was left wondering. I actually think it would ruin the big surprise for the reader if they read her POV.
Assistant, who is actually the slave, but Arianna doesn’t believe in having slaves, so she calls her Assistant, instantly changing the dynamic of there relationship to a more equal footing. Assistant is formidable, strong and incredibly sexy. She has the ice queen/ older woman trope down to a tee and this reviewer was more than a little fond of her character. She’s also the complete opposite of young, quiet and shy Arianna, who just wants to please her.
The sex between these two is uber hot. I was not expecting it to be as erotic as what it was but oh my, it made me happy. It was very sexy indeed.
My favourite part was definitely the last few chapters, including the epilogue. It just filled my heart with so much more love for these characters. I’m secretly praying for a sequel because damn, I want more
I don’t normally pick up sci-fi novels but this one was worth every second of reading it. I really would recommend this to any romance lovers, sci-fi or otherwise.
5 stars
March 9, 2018
4 1/2 stars. I LOVED LOVED that this book was sci fi but also heavy on romance. Really a great combo of both! It's another Miranda/Andy fanfic of DWP from this great author. Although I would say the characters in this particular book are the furthest from the Miranda/Andy characters in the movie. I was not overly taken with the character Mir. She was a little too physical and overbearing at times. But her affection and love for Ariana was clear throughout the story. Ariana was a little naive for a 20 year old but probably because she was basically a hermit w/minimal contact with other people(her choice). I loved her nerdiness. I love all nerds...period. I love that they do not conform to the "norm"...even when it's painful for them because of snooty or bully remarks. I admire their intelligence and strength to stay true to themselves. Go nerds!(and Botanists) :)
March 25, 2018
I loved it. What a good read from one of my fav author.
Imagined the whole story as Mirandy fiction lol. Since it was written based on them ofc. Just a change here and there about the names.
Imagined the whole story as Mirandy fiction lol. Since it was written based on them ofc. Just a change here and there about the names.
March 3, 2024
OHHH I LOVE THEM SO BAD 😭😭😭😭😭😭 when the book is so good and you have such a good time reading it that you want to reread it immediately after finishing it.. yeah.
March 2, 2024
I wish this was longer, or that it has a sequel.
January 25, 2022
RE-READ: February 2021
RE-READ 2: January 2022
This is currently my comfort book and the first book I turn to for a reread. I have loved the second and third reading so much, and I can definitely see myself reading this again.
4/5 stars
I had really mixed feelings at the start of this book, and I continued very apprehensively. The power dynamics were very strange in this book, especially at the beginning, with Ari seeming almost childlike in her naivety. I also find it hard to believe that everyone just let this random captured slave into 24/7 unsupervised company with Ari, but I digress. Despite my thoughts at the beginning, this book broke through all of that and I ended up loving it. This was full of sizzling chemistry (trust me, the steam level was there and more), a surprisingly heartfelt relationship and extremely loveable, interesting characters. My heart is honestly pumping now just thinking back about this book, it was exciting, addictive and steamy-as-hell, and I LOVED IT!!
Right from the beginning, Ari and Assistant had a very interesting relationship. As her slave, it would normally be expected that Assistant was in a weaker position, but it was obvious from the beginning that she was really the one in power. It was definitely a risky relationship, but I was glued to this book the entire time I was reading. I was obsessed, its like I wanted them together but I also didn't (at least at the beginning, by the end I was fully invested). But through all of it, even when my feelings were conflicted, the relationship was so dynamic that it jumped off the page. The chemistry was so visceral, I felt as if Assistant was seducing me along with Ari. Before I knew it, I was halfway through the book and absolutely committed to these characters and their relationship. I was prepared to start sobbing if they didn't end up together, trust me. This book plays so hard on the emotion.
I admit it was kind of hard to read from Ari's perspective at the beginning. She was so naïve, awkward and hyper-focused on botany to the point of cluelessness about the outside world. BUUUT, I also grew to love her so much. She is such a unique character and I rooted for her so hard. The way others treated her just made me angry, so every small defiance and portrayal of strength (no matter how subtle) had me cheering and smiling from ear to ear. This is really the point that sold me on the relationship. At the beginning, I was really nervous that this would be a kind of exploitative relationship of Ari, but in the end it wasn't that at all. No matter how stoic and supposedly cold-hearted Assistant was, she supported Ari and made her strong in all of the small ways. Honestly, their relationship, no matter how the power dynamic seems strange at the start, is one of pure equal-footing because of the feelings they shared for each other. I really enjoyed it and honestly I just want more.
RE-READ 2: January 2022
This is currently my comfort book and the first book I turn to for a reread. I have loved the second and third reading so much, and I can definitely see myself reading this again.
4/5 stars
I had really mixed feelings at the start of this book, and I continued very apprehensively. The power dynamics were very strange in this book, especially at the beginning, with Ari seeming almost childlike in her naivety. I also find it hard to believe that everyone just let this random captured slave into 24/7 unsupervised company with Ari, but I digress. Despite my thoughts at the beginning, this book broke through all of that and I ended up loving it. This was full of sizzling chemistry (trust me, the steam level was there and more), a surprisingly heartfelt relationship and extremely loveable, interesting characters. My heart is honestly pumping now just thinking back about this book, it was exciting, addictive and steamy-as-hell, and I LOVED IT!!
Right from the beginning, Ari and Assistant had a very interesting relationship. As her slave, it would normally be expected that Assistant was in a weaker position, but it was obvious from the beginning that she was really the one in power. It was definitely a risky relationship, but I was glued to this book the entire time I was reading. I was obsessed, its like I wanted them together but I also didn't (at least at the beginning, by the end I was fully invested). But through all of it, even when my feelings were conflicted, the relationship was so dynamic that it jumped off the page. The chemistry was so visceral, I felt as if Assistant was seducing me along with Ari. Before I knew it, I was halfway through the book and absolutely committed to these characters and their relationship. I was prepared to start sobbing if they didn't end up together, trust me. This book plays so hard on the emotion.
I admit it was kind of hard to read from Ari's perspective at the beginning. She was so naïve, awkward and hyper-focused on botany to the point of cluelessness about the outside world. BUUUT, I also grew to love her so much. She is such a unique character and I rooted for her so hard. The way others treated her just made me angry, so every small defiance and portrayal of strength (no matter how subtle) had me cheering and smiling from ear to ear. This is really the point that sold me on the relationship. At the beginning, I was really nervous that this would be a kind of exploitative relationship of Ari, but in the end it wasn't that at all. No matter how stoic and supposedly cold-hearted Assistant was, she supported Ari and made her strong in all of the small ways. Honestly, their relationship, no matter how the power dynamic seems strange at the start, is one of pure equal-footing because of the feelings they shared for each other. I really enjoyed it and honestly I just want more.
December 31, 2021
The “Lily and the Crown” is a fantastic story, and Angela Dawe does an amazing job narrating the book!
This is a sci-fi lesfic novel that’s much more about people than sci-fi technology. Ari’s introduction to the joys of sapphic sex by pirate queen Mir is delightful, and focuses on the growing emotional bond between the two MCs.
The power dynamic between the women is turned upside down. Mir is given to Ari by Ari’s father as a personal slave, but Ari doesn’t believe in slavery, and doesn’t want a slave. Realizing that refusing to accept Mir would mean a much worse fate for Mir, Ari accepts her presence…but insists on calling her “assistant” instead of slave. Worldwise Mir (in disguise as a nobody) constantly manipulates Ari to get access to enemy secrets, yet when Ari takes a stun attack by a guard to protect Mir, Mir recognizes that Ari really is someone truly special to her.
There’s lots of humor throughout the book. The first meeting between Ari and Mir is delightful; Ari thinks she’s the Royal Botanist she’s been expecting. When the Royal Botanist arrives, he mistakes Mir for the Lady Ari. “My god, this is like watching a farce” mumbles Mir.
Anyway, this review is shorter than the book deserves, but I’m rather out of practice writing reviews during 2021 as many of you have noticed. When the real world turned into Zoom calls, and attempts at meeting people and going out bounced from confusing rules to more confusing rules, it’s taken all of my prodigious energy to stay engaged the best I can in the real world, and I’ve had little energy to spare engaging with my cyber Goodreads friends.
I hope 2022 is a great year for all of you! Start it out by listening to the 5* “Lily and the Crown”!
This is a sci-fi lesfic novel that’s much more about people than sci-fi technology. Ari’s introduction to the joys of sapphic sex by pirate queen Mir is delightful, and focuses on the growing emotional bond between the two MCs.
The power dynamic between the women is turned upside down. Mir is given to Ari by Ari’s father as a personal slave, but Ari doesn’t believe in slavery, and doesn’t want a slave. Realizing that refusing to accept Mir would mean a much worse fate for Mir, Ari accepts her presence…but insists on calling her “assistant” instead of slave. Worldwise Mir (in disguise as a nobody) constantly manipulates Ari to get access to enemy secrets, yet when Ari takes a stun attack by a guard to protect Mir, Mir recognizes that Ari really is someone truly special to her.
There’s lots of humor throughout the book. The first meeting between Ari and Mir is delightful; Ari thinks she’s the Royal Botanist she’s been expecting. When the Royal Botanist arrives, he mistakes Mir for the Lady Ari. “My god, this is like watching a farce” mumbles Mir.
Anyway, this review is shorter than the book deserves, but I’m rather out of practice writing reviews during 2021 as many of you have noticed. When the real world turned into Zoom calls, and attempts at meeting people and going out bounced from confusing rules to more confusing rules, it’s taken all of my prodigious energy to stay engaged the best I can in the real world, and I’ve had little energy to spare engaging with my cyber Goodreads friends.
I hope 2022 is a great year for all of you! Start it out by listening to the 5* “Lily and the Crown”!
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