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Blood Descent #1
Of Blood and Deceit
Magic runs in the Drakara bloodline. To seventeen-year-old Ilianna it’s a curse. Born a bastard and raised by an abusive uncle, she struggles to conceal her late-bloomed gifts, but it’s hard to hide when your uncle is king.
The kingdom of Eira recovers from over a decade of warring an overseas enemy. Ilianna trains from youth to fight in her uncle’s militia, to keep her people from the grip of the Wraith Queen, even if she’s feared by everyone except the one that controls her. When it seems that peace is assured, her uncle offers her up to be married to their neighboring realm. However, Ilianna has no intention of accepting and flees the king’s rule only to wind up captured by the very enemy she was promised to.
Prince Castiel, a powerful leader and cunning strategist, recognizes a disguised Ilianna the moment he sees her. When his strange prison guest does nothing but patiently wait for three long months, he forces her to make her move. Ilianna must tame her fears and control a rogue power before her uncle kills her for disobedience or worse, reclaims her and her magic.
The kingdom of Eira recovers from over a decade of warring an overseas enemy. Ilianna trains from youth to fight in her uncle’s militia, to keep her people from the grip of the Wraith Queen, even if she’s feared by everyone except the one that controls her. When it seems that peace is assured, her uncle offers her up to be married to their neighboring realm. However, Ilianna has no intention of accepting and flees the king’s rule only to wind up captured by the very enemy she was promised to.
Prince Castiel, a powerful leader and cunning strategist, recognizes a disguised Ilianna the moment he sees her. When his strange prison guest does nothing but patiently wait for three long months, he forces her to make her move. Ilianna must tame her fears and control a rogue power before her uncle kills her for disobedience or worse, reclaims her and her magic.
494 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 28, 2019
169 people are currently reading
463 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
July 22, 2021
SO MUCH TALKING…
I really wanted to like this book, the summary promises everything I love in a fantasy book. For the most part it was decent but what killed it for me is how much talking there was. Nothing ruins a book more for me when there is more talking than there is showing. 😢
I really wanted to like this book, the summary promises everything I love in a fantasy book. For the most part it was decent but what killed it for me is how much talking there was. Nothing ruins a book more for me when there is more talking than there is showing. 😢
March 28, 2019
Rachel Collett debuts her sophomore series, 'The Blood Descent Series' with the fantastic fantasy novel 'Of Blood and Deceit'. The story tells of a teenage girl named Ilianna, who flees her kingdom to escape her abusive uncle, the King, only to be captured by a neighboring kingdom and the prince to whom she was betrothed.
I think the biggest strength of this novel is the characters. Each character is well developed, interesting, and unique. Illiana, while strong-willed and capable, still has faults that cause her to make poor decisions, requiring her to grow. Prince Castiel is a personal favorite, not only because he's charming and hunky, but also because he challenges Illiana and sees through the wall she exudes. I also love the idea of a servant king: a king who works side by side in the fields with the people. It's a nice element that makes this world stand out.
I enjoyed Rachel's first series, the 'Personal Demons series', but I feel Rachel's writing, world building, and character development has improved greatly in this second attempt. I'm eagerly awaiting the second novel and will pre-order it as soon as it's ready. Do yourself a favor and buy this book!
I think the biggest strength of this novel is the characters. Each character is well developed, interesting, and unique. Illiana, while strong-willed and capable, still has faults that cause her to make poor decisions, requiring her to grow. Prince Castiel is a personal favorite, not only because he's charming and hunky, but also because he challenges Illiana and sees through the wall she exudes. I also love the idea of a servant king: a king who works side by side in the fields with the people. It's a nice element that makes this world stand out.
I enjoyed Rachel's first series, the 'Personal Demons series', but I feel Rachel's writing, world building, and character development has improved greatly in this second attempt. I'm eagerly awaiting the second novel and will pre-order it as soon as it's ready. Do yourself a favor and buy this book!
October 5, 2019
Not very well written.
First I have to say that the writing style for this book is very juvenile, the plotting, the pacing, the word choice as well as many sentance structures were very poor. Events often happened too abruptly, one minute the characters would have one attitude or be discussing one matter and their attitudes or actions would change so suddenly that it made no sense. This was a painfully, tedious book.
First I have to say that the writing style for this book is very juvenile, the plotting, the pacing, the word choice as well as many sentance structures were very poor. Events often happened too abruptly, one minute the characters would have one attitude or be discussing one matter and their attitudes or actions would change so suddenly that it made no sense. This was a painfully, tedious book.
April 10, 2019
Good but...
There's a significant cliffhanger, made worse by the first chapter of the sequel, which appears to strip away the tiny shred of HFN that was still intact with the cliffhanger.
The princess suffers from PTSD as a result of horrific abuse (pretty much everything but sexual). Still, she's smart and brave and we like her. The Prince is hot and smart and magical. Most characters are complex. The world building is strong. The bad guys (and there are lots of them) are really bad. There are NO weak female characters (but they're not all good people).
But. I wish I'd known just how much the ending would leave us hanging, and I think the sneak peek at the sequel only made things worse. Had I known, I would have added this to my wish list and waited for the series to be complete.
There's a significant cliffhanger, made worse by the first chapter of the sequel, which appears to strip away the tiny shred of HFN that was still intact with the cliffhanger.
The princess suffers from PTSD as a result of horrific abuse (pretty much everything but sexual). Still, she's smart and brave and we like her. The Prince is hot and smart and magical. Most characters are complex. The world building is strong. The bad guys (and there are lots of them) are really bad. There are NO weak female characters (but they're not all good people).
But. I wish I'd known just how much the ending would leave us hanging, and I think the sneak peek at the sequel only made things worse. Had I known, I would have added this to my wish list and waited for the series to be complete.
November 11, 2020
Wow! So very well done! Not a Vampire Romance!
I first discovered Rachel Collett with Personal Demons. I wrote rather critical reviews for that series. There was a quality of writing that impressed me, despite having serious quibbles with plot choices, and graphic passages that did not work for me. Later I saw her new series and placed it on my wish to read list, but at that time I had had my fill of Vampire Romance and made an assumption based on the title to wait until later to read.
Well it's Later. I was so wrong in my assumptions. Not a Vampire Romance at all. What I discovered was the most refined fantasy romance that I have read in a very long time. None of the triggering issues from the other series. A thoroughly well balanced story, with great dialog. Clean language, quality romance, very well plotted fight sequences. I can give no higher praise. This is the work of a mature writer who has studied the craft.
I first discovered Rachel Collett with Personal Demons. I wrote rather critical reviews for that series. There was a quality of writing that impressed me, despite having serious quibbles with plot choices, and graphic passages that did not work for me. Later I saw her new series and placed it on my wish to read list, but at that time I had had my fill of Vampire Romance and made an assumption based on the title to wait until later to read.
Well it's Later. I was so wrong in my assumptions. Not a Vampire Romance at all. What I discovered was the most refined fantasy romance that I have read in a very long time. None of the triggering issues from the other series. A thoroughly well balanced story, with great dialog. Clean language, quality romance, very well plotted fight sequences. I can give no higher praise. This is the work of a mature writer who has studied the craft.
August 18, 2020
Hardly a negative in sight.
I loved everything about this book.
I loved the authors voice and writing style. I loved how descriptive she was. I loved the dialogue. I loved the characters and their arcs. I loved it all. This was the absolute perfect book for me right now. I am so glad I found this.
The story was wonderful. Kings, princes, secret princesses, romance, mythical creatures, magic. Also, the strong and even feared females was very refreshing. No whiny pathetic types, but delicate AND strong. If that makes sense. It was great. I didn't want to put it down.
There were only two things that detracted from this book; the occasional typo and although I was not bothered by it, some might be triggered by the abuse that happened prior to the beginning of the story. Other than that 100% my favorite book since hunger games.
I loved everything about this book.
I loved the authors voice and writing style. I loved how descriptive she was. I loved the dialogue. I loved the characters and their arcs. I loved it all. This was the absolute perfect book for me right now. I am so glad I found this.
The story was wonderful. Kings, princes, secret princesses, romance, mythical creatures, magic. Also, the strong and even feared females was very refreshing. No whiny pathetic types, but delicate AND strong. If that makes sense. It was great. I didn't want to put it down.
There were only two things that detracted from this book; the occasional typo and although I was not bothered by it, some might be triggered by the abuse that happened prior to the beginning of the story. Other than that 100% my favorite book since hunger games.
April 18, 2019
I thoroughly enjoyed this high-stakes, high-energy novel. The dialogue was great, and loved the quips and barbs between some of the characters. There were a few twists and surprises in this book, and I loved that. Sometimes I would find myself reading with my mouth wide open in shock.
The last line of the book was the best! Right on, sister!
The last line of the book was the best! Right on, sister!
April 24, 2019
The direction the story went in was a little predictable but still the ride was thrilling. I can't wait to read the next book and see where things head off now that Toma is back and the truth is out about Ilianna and the Wraith Queen. Here's to hoping there's a good ending with Ilianna and Castiel.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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November 5, 2019DNF @ 40%
The instalove killed this for me; additionally, I found the pacing to be uneven and the characterization of Ilianna to be strange and awkward. This one just didn't work for me.
The instalove killed this for me; additionally, I found the pacing to be uneven and the characterization of Ilianna to be strange and awkward. This one just didn't work for me.
May 10, 2020
I thought this was a standalone :(
April 8, 2019
Next! Next! Next! (Chanting)
Kissing & some swearing, violence (it's not glorified but it's there) and obvious past history of physical & emotional abuse. No sex (thank you! Graphic physical intimacy lands books in my scrap pile)
This book sucked me in and entertained me while I read. I even thought about it afterwards.
My least favorite part is a lack of clear understanding WHY the hero loves the heroine. It didn't really seem logical to me or the heroine so hey, we're on the same page there. It would be nice to get an extra chapter as to his point of view to get into his head and see instead of be told "he loves you" from him and his friends saying he's more content or acting different because of her.
I did like the world building and am invested & interested in these characters. The heroine isn't a excessive or faint of heart so I like that. I look forward to the next book and plan to read it.
Kissing & some swearing, violence (it's not glorified but it's there) and obvious past history of physical & emotional abuse. No sex (thank you! Graphic physical intimacy lands books in my scrap pile)
This book sucked me in and entertained me while I read. I even thought about it afterwards.
My least favorite part is a lack of clear understanding WHY the hero loves the heroine. It didn't really seem logical to me or the heroine so hey, we're on the same page there. It would be nice to get an extra chapter as to his point of view to get into his head and see instead of be told "he loves you" from him and his friends saying he's more content or acting different because of her.
I did like the world building and am invested & interested in these characters. The heroine isn't a excessive or faint of heart so I like that. I look forward to the next book and plan to read it.
Read
August 25, 2021“Ilianna, in my kingdom, if you plan on seeing the person again, if you want to see them again, you do not say goodbye. It’s bad luck.”
Oh my gosh, this book was such a gem to stumble across!
I was initially drawn in by the gorgeous (GORGEOUS) cover and the fact that there's a main character called Prince Castiel.
This Castiel is much different, however. He's a magician with an immense amount of power who instantly becomes protective of Ilianna.
Castiel and Ilianna start making heart eyes at each other from minute one and I freaking adored their interactions. Ilianna is such an easy character to root for and I liked her instantly. Riaan (the king) and Castiel have great bro banter as well.
The whole plot with the Wraith Queen was awesome and I can't wait to see what book two brings!
☆ Blog | Twitter ☆
Oh my gosh, this book was such a gem to stumble across!
I was initially drawn in by the gorgeous (GORGEOUS) cover and the fact that there's a main character called Prince Castiel.
This Castiel is much different, however. He's a magician with an immense amount of power who instantly becomes protective of Ilianna.
Castiel and Ilianna start making heart eyes at each other from minute one and I freaking adored their interactions. Ilianna is such an easy character to root for and I liked her instantly. Riaan (the king) and Castiel have great bro banter as well.
The whole plot with the Wraith Queen was awesome and I can't wait to see what book two brings!
☆ Blog | Twitter ☆
January 27, 2021
You know that feeling... when you're on a seemingly endless hunt for a really good book. And after a long search, you finally find one that hits the spot? That's how I felt with this one. The writing was fantastic, the characters were so lovable, and the world building was well executed.
This book ensnared me from the first few pages. You simply MUST read this.
Will definitely keep a look out for more works from Rachel Collett!
This book ensnared me from the first few pages. You simply MUST read this.
Will definitely keep a look out for more works from Rachel Collett!
December 30, 2021
Fine, a good editor would have made it better
I finished, so I gave it three stars. However, I don’t think I will continue with the series. Multiple typos, but worse for me was misused words. They were close to the actual word, but not the word the held the meaning - preceding vs proceeding being an example. It just pushed me out of the story every time, and there were so many!
The main character was inconsistent, to me. Strong, or weak? Powerful killing machine, or not? With a nickname that makes no sense if no one knows of her magic, there were just too much inconsistency.
All things a good editor, and more author revision, could correct and make the story better.
I finished, so I gave it three stars. However, I don’t think I will continue with the series. Multiple typos, but worse for me was misused words. They were close to the actual word, but not the word the held the meaning - preceding vs proceeding being an example. It just pushed me out of the story every time, and there were so many!
The main character was inconsistent, to me. Strong, or weak? Powerful killing machine, or not? With a nickname that makes no sense if no one knows of her magic, there were just too much inconsistency.
All things a good editor, and more author revision, could correct and make the story better.
June 2, 2019
Pretty good
Interesting plot with some unique twists. It's always good to find a book that gives you a surprise or two.
Interesting plot with some unique twists. It's always good to find a book that gives you a surprise or two.
March 10, 2023
hard to put down
Well written YA fantasy. I was interested from the first chapter, and the action and twists kept coming. Definitely reading the second book!
Well written YA fantasy. I was interested from the first chapter, and the action and twists kept coming. Definitely reading the second book!
Read
August 24, 2019Struggled to 74% of the way through, since I liked the premise and the writing was decent, but this book has defeated me, mainly because there just hasn't been any tension since the first few chapters.
Eye-rolling moments:
(1) the MC is told there aren't peasants or poor people in this kingdom because everyone works. Okaaaay. Er...peasants worked? Poverty isn't the result of not working hard enough? Maybe it turns out that the person who told the MC this has been the real villain all along, but I admit that would surprise me as the narrative seemed to present this 'fact' uncritically.
(2) The MC is supposed to be a hardened warrior, steeped in blood and angst etc etc - but they are so innocent that they have no idea what lust is and other character's allusions to it go completely over their head. So does a veiled rape threat at one point - which makes it clear they've never even encountered the concept of rape, which I found a bit dubious given their background in soldiering.
Eye-rolling moments:
(1) the MC is told there aren't peasants or poor people in this kingdom because everyone works. Okaaaay. Er...peasants worked? Poverty isn't the result of not working hard enough? Maybe it turns out that the person who told the MC this has been the real villain all along, but I admit that would surprise me as the narrative seemed to present this 'fact' uncritically.
(2) The MC is supposed to be a hardened warrior, steeped in blood and angst etc etc - but they are so innocent that they have no idea what lust is and other character's allusions to it go completely over their head. So does a veiled rape threat at one point - which makes it clear they've never even encountered the concept of rape, which I found a bit dubious given their background in soldiering.
August 12, 2021
I finished it, but it was poorly written and needed some serious editorial help with gaps and inconsistencies. Definitely followed fantasy novel tropes to an extreme.
August 1, 2021
DNF'd at 70-ish%.
Picked this one up sometime last year because of the cover, finally retured it on KU because I wanted the space to check out another book. Definitely had some good moments, but it reminded me a lot of Throne of Glass (ick), there were some pretty obvious grammar issues, and after 70% of the book I still couldn't get myself to care for the characters even a little.
Giving it two stars instead of one because I think it might be enjoyable for others, and I didn't outright hate it, just got really bored.
Picked this one up sometime last year because of the cover, finally retured it on KU because I wanted the space to check out another book. Definitely had some good moments, but it reminded me a lot of Throne of Glass (ick), there were some pretty obvious grammar issues, and after 70% of the book I still couldn't get myself to care for the characters even a little.
Giving it two stars instead of one because I think it might be enjoyable for others, and I didn't outright hate it, just got really bored.
March 21, 2021
The absolute worst... a good plot but horrible writing and editing.
May 9, 2023
📖The Plot:
Ilianna is the princess of Eira, but she has lived far from a princess life. Abused by her uncle, the king, she escapes to the neighboring kingdom. When Prince Castiel pulls her from the dungeon she is thrust back into the political world.
Together, with Prince Castiel and his brother the King, Ilianna plans on how to bring peace to the two warring kingdoms. Yes, as they work together new problems start to pop up.
Ilianna's magic needs to be trained and kept secret from her Uncle who would use her powers for evil. The people of Prince Castiel's kingdom hate Ilianna as she's the demon daughter. Spies from her Uncle's kingdom try to take her back.
But most of all, the Wraith Queen is coming.
As Ilianna discovers more about who she is, her power, and her inner strength will she be able to trust the prince and his magic? Will she find a way to protect herself, and hopefully her people?
✍️The Writing: I really enjoyed the build up of the romance in this book. It was absolutely a slow burn that killed me. I also really enjoyed the suspense around the Demon daughter and Wraith Queen. I thought the suspense and mystery was well written, and things unfolded so well that I couldn't guess what was going to happen. This is the second time I read it and I had forgotten a lot of it, and there were still some surprises that I forgot about. The character development is great for Ilianna. I didn't really see any other character development besides hers, which she is the main character, but I would have appreciated some more depth for some of the other side character. The romance between Ilianna and Prince Castiel does lend to some growth for Castiel, but I felt like that was tied up in him falling for Ilianna.
💋: This is a clean romance, so everything stops at kissing. It's a slow burn experience throughout the book and I really loved it!
🤬Language: There are about 7-10 swear words. Instances of bible swears as well as a few more strong language instances. No f-word though.
Things to be aware:
😈 Demons are mentioned, so if demons, possession, and more darker types of magic aren't your cup of tea then pass on this book.
⚠️Ilianna was very abused both emotionally and physically by her Uncle and his minions. This is mentioned often and she has PTSD from the experience.
⚠️Lots of fighting, injuries, war. Slightly descriptive.
Ilianna is the princess of Eira, but she has lived far from a princess life. Abused by her uncle, the king, she escapes to the neighboring kingdom. When Prince Castiel pulls her from the dungeon she is thrust back into the political world.
Together, with Prince Castiel and his brother the King, Ilianna plans on how to bring peace to the two warring kingdoms. Yes, as they work together new problems start to pop up.
Ilianna's magic needs to be trained and kept secret from her Uncle who would use her powers for evil. The people of Prince Castiel's kingdom hate Ilianna as she's the demon daughter. Spies from her Uncle's kingdom try to take her back.
But most of all, the Wraith Queen is coming.
As Ilianna discovers more about who she is, her power, and her inner strength will she be able to trust the prince and his magic? Will she find a way to protect herself, and hopefully her people?
✍️The Writing: I really enjoyed the build up of the romance in this book. It was absolutely a slow burn that killed me. I also really enjoyed the suspense around the Demon daughter and Wraith Queen. I thought the suspense and mystery was well written, and things unfolded so well that I couldn't guess what was going to happen. This is the second time I read it and I had forgotten a lot of it, and there were still some surprises that I forgot about. The character development is great for Ilianna. I didn't really see any other character development besides hers, which she is the main character, but I would have appreciated some more depth for some of the other side character. The romance between Ilianna and Prince Castiel does lend to some growth for Castiel, but I felt like that was tied up in him falling for Ilianna.
💋: This is a clean romance, so everything stops at kissing. It's a slow burn experience throughout the book and I really loved it!
🤬Language: There are about 7-10 swear words. Instances of bible swears as well as a few more strong language instances. No f-word though.
Things to be aware:
😈 Demons are mentioned, so if demons, possession, and more darker types of magic aren't your cup of tea then pass on this book.
⚠️Ilianna was very abused both emotionally and physically by her Uncle and his minions. This is mentioned often and she has PTSD from the experience.
⚠️Lots of fighting, injuries, war. Slightly descriptive.
July 27, 2023
Iliana Drakara is a princess and warrior with a strange persona that seems to take over in battle, as well as magic of her own that she fights to keep hidden from her abusive uncle, Johan, the king of Eira. In order to broker peace between Eira and their neighboring kingdom, Anolyn, her uncle promises her in marriage to Anolyn's young king, Riaan.
Deciding to flee Johan's reign and this unwanted marriage, Iliana gets into a dust-up with some Anolyn guards and ends up in prison, until she's recognized by Riaan's younger brother, Prince Castiel, who intends to return her home if he can confirm that Johan will uphold the peace he promised. Until then, she must stay under guard at the Anolyn palace. But when one of Johan's spies infiltrates Anolyn and nearly kidnaps Iliana, Riaan charges Castiel with training Iliana to master and control her magic. But can she do so in time to defend her new home and those she cares about from the return of an old enemy?
This book really wasn't for me. This doesn't mean it's bad or a poorly-told story. Rachel Collette's prose is wonderful, and her storytelling is very well done. The characters are multi-faceted, not boring or one-note. Prince Castiel and motherly lady's maid, Sameen, were particular favorites. There were some very unique elements that were also enjoyable, such as Iliana hiding in prison instead of going to the palace and asking for protection. Seeing a young king and his brother working together was also refreshing, since oftentimes a young heir becoming king is the end of a story, and seeing Riaan as king beside Castiel as prince and their dynamic was quite interesting.
The things I didn't enjoy were the more darkly supernatural areas. This book involves demons, wraiths, seers and so on. These elements aren't my cup of tea, but for those who enjoy stories that employ these elements, they'll find this one very enjoyable as well. More traditional fantasy fans may enjoy it also. I truly believe that Rachel Colette is a talented writer and I would be very happy to read other books she comes out with in future.
Deciding to flee Johan's reign and this unwanted marriage, Iliana gets into a dust-up with some Anolyn guards and ends up in prison, until she's recognized by Riaan's younger brother, Prince Castiel, who intends to return her home if he can confirm that Johan will uphold the peace he promised. Until then, she must stay under guard at the Anolyn palace. But when one of Johan's spies infiltrates Anolyn and nearly kidnaps Iliana, Riaan charges Castiel with training Iliana to master and control her magic. But can she do so in time to defend her new home and those she cares about from the return of an old enemy?
This book really wasn't for me. This doesn't mean it's bad or a poorly-told story. Rachel Collette's prose is wonderful, and her storytelling is very well done. The characters are multi-faceted, not boring or one-note. Prince Castiel and motherly lady's maid, Sameen, were particular favorites. There were some very unique elements that were also enjoyable, such as Iliana hiding in prison instead of going to the palace and asking for protection. Seeing a young king and his brother working together was also refreshing, since oftentimes a young heir becoming king is the end of a story, and seeing Riaan as king beside Castiel as prince and their dynamic was quite interesting.
The things I didn't enjoy were the more darkly supernatural areas. This book involves demons, wraiths, seers and so on. These elements aren't my cup of tea, but for those who enjoy stories that employ these elements, they'll find this one very enjoyable as well. More traditional fantasy fans may enjoy it also. I truly believe that Rachel Colette is a talented writer and I would be very happy to read other books she comes out with in future.
June 19, 2021
🏹
*aimed for a 4 star story with a badass female character*
*got a dumpster fire*
GOOD GOD, I literally raced the heck out to finish this book. I picked this up because I was desperate and I’ve never read about a female bastard.
*cries for my desperation for the 2022 books in my waiting list*
So what went wrong, you might be asking? Everything.
- Romance: I have very high standards for romance. It’s usually ok if relationships don’t stack up to them. However, this is just noooooo. Castiel, what do you like about her?
- Editing: DUDE, I don’t know if this is my problem only, but the tense and spelling mistakes went rampant. (Although I wouldn’t blame the author because I’m pretty sure the editor/publisher/whoever-beta-read-this should’ve caught it?—Again, this might be my problem only.)
- Writing: The writing reminds me of when I stayed up at night to write my first story when I was 12. Whenever I look back at it, and I internally scream at my past self.
- Characters: ...no.
- Plot: *sigh*
If you like enemies-that-go-straight-to-lovers, then defo recommend. If not, uh, don’t read.
*aimed for a 4 star story with a badass female character*
*got a dumpster fire*
GOOD GOD, I literally raced the heck out to finish this book. I picked this up because I was desperate and I’ve never read about a female bastard.
*cries for my desperation for the 2022 books in my waiting list*
So what went wrong, you might be asking? Everything.
- Romance: I have very high standards for romance. It’s usually ok if relationships don’t stack up to them. However, this is just noooooo. Castiel, what do you like about her?
- Editing: DUDE, I don’t know if this is my problem only, but the tense and spelling mistakes went rampant. (Although I wouldn’t blame the author because I’m pretty sure the editor/publisher/whoever-beta-read-this should’ve caught it?—Again, this might be my problem only.)
- Writing: The writing reminds me of when I stayed up at night to write my first story when I was 12. Whenever I look back at it, and I internally scream at my past self.
- Characters: ...no.
- Plot: *sigh*
If you like enemies-that-go-straight-to-lovers, then defo recommend. If not, uh, don’t read.
April 11, 2019
Wow! If you are looking for great read.....
There aren’t many things I enjoy more than a great book and boy oh boy I this is another winner by a very talented new up and coming author. The lives, worlds, alternate realities and endless possibilities coming to life with every “turn of the page” was masterfully done. I caught myself actually getting angry with The Princess due to her choices or behaviors, not getting mad at the author you see.
Incredible
There aren’t many things I enjoy more than a great book and boy oh boy I this is another winner by a very talented new up and coming author. The lives, worlds, alternate realities and endless possibilities coming to life with every “turn of the page” was masterfully done. I caught myself actually getting angry with The Princess due to her choices or behaviors, not getting mad at the author you see.
Incredible
April 14, 2022
Have you ever read a book that was good, not great, but still caused extreme rage, hatred and disgust toward EVERY SINGLE MALE CHARACTER in the entire stupid book??!?!? I loathe them ALL!!!! Like not even the main love interest can escape my wrath. I want them all thrown into a volcano. Or ejected into outer space without a space suit. I am so MAD!!If I don’t like at least one character by the end of the next book I will RAGE!! 🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬
April 9, 2019
This book! There were several times other obligations forced me to put this book down, but it gave me time to savor the story. The range of characters was beautifully done, balanced with a variety of hero/heroine and villian. The twists were unexpected and so well done. I cannot wait to read more!
I liked it better than most of the YA books I have read. I highly recommend. SO GOOD!
I liked it better than most of the YA books I have read. I highly recommend. SO GOOD!
January 4, 2020
Total surprise
This book was a surprise - unknown author to me whose book (thankfully) showed up as a recommendation in kindle. The plot and characters are well done here. Only gripe is some very occasional bad grammar - there’s not a ton of it, but enough to indicate an editor/proof-reader would help.
This book was a surprise - unknown author to me whose book (thankfully) showed up as a recommendation in kindle. The plot and characters are well done here. Only gripe is some very occasional bad grammar - there’s not a ton of it, but enough to indicate an editor/proof-reader would help.
April 13, 2021
The book started to drag for me the last 15% but leading up to that I enjoyed it.
It was odd to hear about Ilianna’s past fighting experience, and then seeing her during the events of the book not really make a dent in anyone. She got kidnapped or capture a few too many times for someone who’s been in combat for the last five years.
Also events would just happen but it felt like it didn’t really add to the over all story.
It was an insta love situation but I think it worked here, or at least I didn’t find it annoying like I usually do.
It was odd to hear about Ilianna’s past fighting experience, and then seeing her during the events of the book not really make a dent in anyone. She got kidnapped or capture a few too many times for someone who’s been in combat for the last five years.
Also events would just happen but it felt like it didn’t really add to the over all story.
It was an insta love situation but I think it worked here, or at least I didn’t find it annoying like I usually do.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 16, 2021
A very different and very good read!
Granted some of the romantic scenes were a little too dramatic/steamy to be my cup of tea, BUT the plot, characters, and setting were original and different enough to be extremely interesting.
Granted some of the romantic scenes were a little too dramatic/steamy to be my cup of tea, BUT the plot, characters, and setting were original and different enough to be extremely interesting.
April 15, 2019
The concept was interesting but the romance was lackluster - and that spells trouble for a book that revolves so much on the budding romance.
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