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The Culled Crown #2
Of Princes and Poisons
Once there were ten.
Ten goddess-touched girls were born. Each was blessed—or cursed—with a unique power that set them apart. As part of an ancient ritual called the Culling, they were supposed to fight to the death in the arena until only one survived. That girl would marry the prince and ascend to the throne. Now only four girls remain.
Power in her blood.
Monroe Benson is one of the lucky ones. With fire at her fingertips, she survived the arena and the intrigues of the palace. Now she’s turned her back on her destiny, choosing to throw in her lot with the rebellion seeking to overturn the Erydian rulers. Monroe has never wanted the throne. She knows that her future lies elsewhere, but first she’ll have to convince the rebels to believe her.
A traitorous heart.
Hearts, however, cannot always be trusted. Cohen was one of the few good things about the Culling. Monroe believed that he would have made a good ruler, but that doesn’t mean that she wanted to sit beside him on the throne. And now, she finds herself drawn to a rebel leader. A man with secrets of his own. In the end, Monroe will have to trust in more than her power or even her heart if she’s to forge her own path and find her freedom.
Ten goddess-touched girls were born. Each was blessed—or cursed—with a unique power that set them apart. As part of an ancient ritual called the Culling, they were supposed to fight to the death in the arena until only one survived. That girl would marry the prince and ascend to the throne. Now only four girls remain.
Power in her blood.
Monroe Benson is one of the lucky ones. With fire at her fingertips, she survived the arena and the intrigues of the palace. Now she’s turned her back on her destiny, choosing to throw in her lot with the rebellion seeking to overturn the Erydian rulers. Monroe has never wanted the throne. She knows that her future lies elsewhere, but first she’ll have to convince the rebels to believe her.
A traitorous heart.
Hearts, however, cannot always be trusted. Cohen was one of the few good things about the Culling. Monroe believed that he would have made a good ruler, but that doesn’t mean that she wanted to sit beside him on the throne. And now, she finds herself drawn to a rebel leader. A man with secrets of his own. In the end, Monroe will have to trust in more than her power or even her heart if she’s to forge her own path and find her freedom.
Hardcover
First published June 18, 2024
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About the author
Brianna Joy Crump
2 books148 followersBrianna Joy Crump grew up on library cards and games of make-believe. She loves cats, houseplants, candles that smell nice, cream and sugar with her coffee, the pretty notebooks she is too afraid to use, the beach, her kindle, and you. Brianna is the author of the Culled Crown series. She currently lives in Holly Ridge, North Carolina, with her cat, Jinx—who spends his days sitting on her desk while she writes. To learn more about Brianna’s writing journey, follow her on Instagram at @briannajoyc and TikTok @briannajoycrump.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
August 17, 2025
3 stars ⭐️
𝐁𝐥𝐮𝐫𝐛
Of Princes and Poisons follows Monroe Benson as she escapes the Culling aka Death. Now living in a rebel camp, she struggles to build a normal life and convince others that she’s not a threat. However, as her past catches up to her, Monroe faces a critical choice: save herself or protect the people she loves.
𝐌𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬
Okay! To start with, the first half was eventful. Monroe's struggle to live a regular life while dealing with the events related to her "fire ability" was captivating. There was this one scene where she used her abilities to the extreme, and I loved it!
“𝙱𝚞𝚝 𝚊𝚜 𝙸 𝚜𝚝𝚎𝚙𝚙𝚎𝚍 𝚏𝚘𝚛𝚠𝚊𝚛𝚍 𝚒𝚗𝚝𝚘 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚊𝚜𝚑 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚠𝚒𝚗𝚍 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚋𝚕𝚒𝚜𝚝𝚎𝚛𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚑𝚎𝚊𝚝 𝚘𝚏 𝚖𝚢 𝚘𝚠𝚗 𝚖𝚊𝚔𝚒𝚗𝚐, 𝙸 𝚔𝚗𝚎𝚠 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚛𝚎 𝚠𝚊𝚜 𝚘𝚗𝚕𝚢 𝚘𝚗𝚎 𝚕𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚕 𝚘𝚏 𝚑𝚎𝚕𝚕—𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚒𝚗 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚖𝚘𝚖𝚎𝚗𝚝, 𝙸 𝚠𝚊𝚜 𝚚𝚞𝚎𝚎𝚗 𝚘𝚏 𝚒𝚝.”
The representation of past trauma and the healing process, as the girls realized that they now have a choice beyond life-and-death situations, was beautifully done. It made their characters feel real and relatable..
At first, Cohen's actions were very strange compared to how he was in the first book, but that was mostly to divert attention from him as the main lead. However, the justification for making Cohen the bad guy was forced and unconvincing. And… Cohen DID. NOT. DESERVE. Whatever happened around him. 😔
The introduction of Callahan and the sudden shift in the love interest from Cohen was very abrupt, and the chemistry between the main characters felt off. While there was some attraction towards each other, the emotional connection was just not there, leaving me wanting more depth in their relationship.
Plus, there was an overload of INFO DUMP and plot-building conversations. As the second half started, the pacing was so slow and I found myself delaying my reading and skimming through many parts. While there was plenty of scheming and planning, there was just too little action and implementation.
“𝙸 𝚔𝚗𝚎𝚠 𝙸 𝚠𝚊𝚜 𝚕𝚒𝚝𝚝𝚕𝚎 𝚖𝚘𝚛𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚗 𝚊 𝚝𝚠𝚒𝚜𝚝𝚎𝚍 𝚙𝚒𝚕𝚎 𝚘𝚏 𝚛𝚎𝚐𝚛𝚎𝚝 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚙𝚘𝚘𝚛 𝚌𝚑𝚘𝚒𝚌𝚎𝚜.”
Around 80%, my interest in the characters and the storyline diminished.. however, that’s when the plot took a sharp turn, becoming more eventful. The final part of the story was packed with unexpected twists, heartbreak, and sadness.
𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 (𝐓𝐋;𝐃𝐑)
Overall, I’m quite let down by this. It had the potential to be far better if certain events had unfolded differently. However, amidst its adventurous plot and a poignant portrayal of trauma, there were so many exciting events showing Monroe’s abilities in action.
It's common for the second book to act as a bridge between the first and third. So, I'll wait for book three to understand Callahan's actions better, and hopefully Cohen gets a more compelling storyline than he’s had so far!
𝚃𝚑𝚊𝚗𝚔𝚜 𝚝𝚘 𝙽𝚎𝚝𝙶𝚊𝚕𝚕𝚎𝚢, 𝚆𝚊𝚝𝚝𝚙𝚊𝚍 𝙱𝚘𝚘𝚔𝚜, 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚊𝚞𝚝𝚑𝚘𝚛 𝙱𝚛𝚒𝚊𝚗𝚗𝚊 𝙹𝚘𝚢 𝙲𝚛𝚞𝚖𝚙 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚎-𝚌𝚘𝚙𝚢 𝚒𝚗 𝚎𝚡𝚌𝚑𝚊𝚗𝚐𝚎 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚊𝚗 𝚑𝚘𝚗𝚎𝚜𝚝 𝚛𝚎𝚟𝚒𝚎𝚠. 𝚃𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚋𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚠𝚒𝚕𝚕 𝚋𝚎 𝚙𝚞𝚋𝚕𝚒𝚜𝚑𝚎𝚍 𝚘𝚗 𝟷𝟾𝚝𝚑 𝙹𝚞𝚗𝚎 𝟸𝟶𝟸𝟺.
P.S. Scroll down for some additional thoughts (SPOILERS‼️)
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• The plot seemed like karma coming full circle for Monroe! In the first book, she betrays those around her, resulting in Cohen losing a lot. However, in this one, she experiences the same betrayal from someone she loved, losing people dear to her.. it’s really “𝐤𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐚 𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐬 𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤”.
• Furthermore, when Callahan convinced Monroe that “If Cohen wanted to do something about the Culling, he could have” it is the same thing that Callahan himself did to Monroe. 𝐈𝐟 𝐇𝐄 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨, he could have been honest with her instead of deceiving and betraying her trust.
• I feel so bad for COHEN because he's repeatedly losing his family members, despite none of it being his fault. Sure, The Culling was undoubtedly strange and unjust, but it wasn’t him who made this tradition. It’s heartbreaking to see Monroe's response when she says, "He didn't do anything to stop the Culling”, when he sacrificed his whole family, his identity to save her..
• And Uri... 😔 She deserved so much more. Out of all the characters in the second book, she was the only one I genuinely liked and felt deserved a happy ending.
• Throughout the book, we were told Larkin was the evil and dangerous villain, who needs to be defeated.. only for that event? that abrupt ending?
𝐁𝐥𝐮𝐫𝐛
Of Princes and Poisons follows Monroe Benson as she escapes the Culling aka Death. Now living in a rebel camp, she struggles to build a normal life and convince others that she’s not a threat. However, as her past catches up to her, Monroe faces a critical choice: save herself or protect the people she loves.
𝐌𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬
Okay! To start with, the first half was eventful. Monroe's struggle to live a regular life while dealing with the events related to her "fire ability" was captivating. There was this one scene where she used her abilities to the extreme, and I loved it!
“𝙱𝚞𝚝 𝚊𝚜 𝙸 𝚜𝚝𝚎𝚙𝚙𝚎𝚍 𝚏𝚘𝚛𝚠𝚊𝚛𝚍 𝚒𝚗𝚝𝚘 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚊𝚜𝚑 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚠𝚒𝚗𝚍 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚋𝚕𝚒𝚜𝚝𝚎𝚛𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚑𝚎𝚊𝚝 𝚘𝚏 𝚖𝚢 𝚘𝚠𝚗 𝚖𝚊𝚔𝚒𝚗𝚐, 𝙸 𝚔𝚗𝚎𝚠 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚛𝚎 𝚠𝚊𝚜 𝚘𝚗𝚕𝚢 𝚘𝚗𝚎 𝚕𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚕 𝚘𝚏 𝚑𝚎𝚕𝚕—𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚒𝚗 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚖𝚘𝚖𝚎𝚗𝚝, 𝙸 𝚠𝚊𝚜 𝚚𝚞𝚎𝚎𝚗 𝚘𝚏 𝚒𝚝.”
The representation of past trauma and the healing process, as the girls realized that they now have a choice beyond life-and-death situations, was beautifully done. It made their characters feel real and relatable..
At first, Cohen's actions were very strange compared to how he was in the first book, but that was mostly to divert attention from him as the main lead. However, the justification for making Cohen the bad guy was forced and unconvincing. And… Cohen DID. NOT. DESERVE. Whatever happened around him. 😔
The introduction of Callahan and the sudden shift in the love interest from Cohen was very abrupt, and the chemistry between the main characters felt off. While there was some attraction towards each other, the emotional connection was just not there, leaving me wanting more depth in their relationship.
Plus, there was an overload of INFO DUMP and plot-building conversations. As the second half started, the pacing was so slow and I found myself delaying my reading and skimming through many parts. While there was plenty of scheming and planning, there was just too little action and implementation.
“𝙸 𝚔𝚗𝚎𝚠 𝙸 𝚠𝚊𝚜 𝚕𝚒𝚝𝚝𝚕𝚎 𝚖𝚘𝚛𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚗 𝚊 𝚝𝚠𝚒𝚜𝚝𝚎𝚍 𝚙𝚒𝚕𝚎 𝚘𝚏 𝚛𝚎𝚐𝚛𝚎𝚝 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚙𝚘𝚘𝚛 𝚌𝚑𝚘𝚒𝚌𝚎𝚜.”
Around 80%, my interest in the characters and the storyline diminished.. however, that’s when the plot took a sharp turn, becoming more eventful. The final part of the story was packed with unexpected twists, heartbreak, and sadness.
𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 (𝐓𝐋;𝐃𝐑)
Overall, I’m quite let down by this. It had the potential to be far better if certain events had unfolded differently. However, amidst its adventurous plot and a poignant portrayal of trauma, there were so many exciting events showing Monroe’s abilities in action.
It's common for the second book to act as a bridge between the first and third. So, I'll wait for book three to understand Callahan's actions better, and hopefully Cohen gets a more compelling storyline than he’s had so far!
𝚃𝚑𝚊𝚗𝚔𝚜 𝚝𝚘 𝙽𝚎𝚝𝙶𝚊𝚕𝚕𝚎𝚢, 𝚆𝚊𝚝𝚝𝚙𝚊𝚍 𝙱𝚘𝚘𝚔𝚜, 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚊𝚞𝚝𝚑𝚘𝚛 𝙱𝚛𝚒𝚊𝚗𝚗𝚊 𝙹𝚘𝚢 𝙲𝚛𝚞𝚖𝚙 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚎-𝚌𝚘𝚙𝚢 𝚒𝚗 𝚎𝚡𝚌𝚑𝚊𝚗𝚐𝚎 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚊𝚗 𝚑𝚘𝚗𝚎𝚜𝚝 𝚛𝚎𝚟𝚒𝚎𝚠. 𝚃𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚋𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚠𝚒𝚕𝚕 𝚋𝚎 𝚙𝚞𝚋𝚕𝚒𝚜𝚑𝚎𝚍 𝚘𝚗 𝟷𝟾𝚝𝚑 𝙹𝚞𝚗𝚎 𝟸𝟶𝟸𝟺.
P.S. Scroll down for some additional thoughts (SPOILERS‼️)
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
• The plot seemed like karma coming full circle for Monroe! In the first book, she betrays those around her, resulting in Cohen losing a lot. However, in this one, she experiences the same betrayal from someone she loved, losing people dear to her.. it’s really “𝐤𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐚 𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐬 𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤”.
• Furthermore, when Callahan convinced Monroe that “If Cohen wanted to do something about the Culling, he could have” it is the same thing that Callahan himself did to Monroe. 𝐈𝐟 𝐇𝐄 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨, he could have been honest with her instead of deceiving and betraying her trust.
• I feel so bad for COHEN because he's repeatedly losing his family members, despite none of it being his fault. Sure, The Culling was undoubtedly strange and unjust, but it wasn’t him who made this tradition. It’s heartbreaking to see Monroe's response when she says, "He didn't do anything to stop the Culling”, when he sacrificed his whole family, his identity to save her..
• And Uri... 😔 She deserved so much more. Out of all the characters in the second book, she was the only one I genuinely liked and felt deserved a happy ending.
• Throughout the book, we were told Larkin was the evil and dangerous villain, who needs to be defeated.. only for that event? that abrupt ending?
February 23, 2025
"'the goddess has taken everything, but she doesn't get to take this.'"
— three point five stars, rounded down.
would i recommend this book? eh? yes and no?
trigger warnings: violence, graphic descriptions of death, mentions of rape (not on page descriptions though), domestic abuse, child abuse, and so on.
and the crowd... exchanges confused glances!
because i really don't know how i feel about this. as a sequel, it is solid, though i think it does fall to the dreaded second book curse, where the second book isn't as strong as the first. i definitely prefer the first book to this one, for a plethora of reasons i will explain, but man. i'm just conflicted on what i actually think.
for starters, i think this book was unbearably slow. i forced myself through it because my best friend has been positively dying for me to read and finish it so she could talk to me about it without spoiling (she failed btw, she did accidentally let an important death slip but it was funny), but it was slow. i feel like nothing happened, even though a lot did happen, because we were at a very stagnant place in both location and time. monroe is obviously still trying to work through what happened to her in the last book and make peace with both who she is now that she doesn't have the culling to worry about while also juggling the fact that most of the rebels simply don't like her because of her ability. and i think because we have to follow monroe processsing this trauma for the story and narrative to actually make sense, i do understand why the pacing was off for this book. and as much as i hate slow books, i would almost prefer it this way, as it develops monroe and gives us more insight to the world around them post-culling, no matter how boring it was to read.
that being said, another thing i genuinely did not like was how much focus was put on the love triangle/love interests. monroe is battling through immense trauma, between killing the girls in the arena and helping overthrow the monarchy to even being treated like garbage by members of the culled... only for most of her focus to be on cohen and kai. i don't think that it was bad that there was romance in the book, but i felt that much of it felt forced. if you want to write a romantic fantasy, please, by all means, do, but this series is one i feel should be more focused on the politics of the world, especially since they hold such high stakes. instead, much of monroe's free time (and thus, what we read) is spent thinking about how much or how little she feels towards the love interests, and that's just... i would have preferred the politics of the world to have taken center stage more than the romances.
on that note, can we please talk about how kai (callahan) literally came out of nowhere? because while i preferred him as a love interest to cohen, the fact that he wasn't mentioned in the last book at all and then suddenly popped up and became super important to both monroe and the plot felt a little... forced, in a way. like the author needed a plot device to make an idea she had make sense, and kai was the result of that. again, don't get me wrong, i enjoyed his character and i was very shocked by the twist at the end, but i can't deny that he felt forced. or, at the very least, the love triangle did, because i could have accepted the twist had he not been forced into a love triangle with monroe and cohen.
yk i’m at work and i had to edit this in because i’m still mad about it but there’s something that’s revealed towards the end (it’s a death, but because of spoilers im not gonna say who) that should have been an earth shattering thing for monroe… but she literally brushes past it like it didn’t even happen??? and that frustrates me because had she had a bigger reaction to it, the twist from kai would’ve been that much better. ugh.
the story took a turn around the 60% mark, which i'm grateful for, because everything past then was very entertaining to read, but i still had a lot of issues with the book, which is why i docked a star and a half from my rating. i think as far as a second book goes, it's very solid, but i reached the end and just felt unsatisfied with many of the story choices and how a lot of things played out.
i do have some high hopes for the third book, though. by no means do i think crump is a bad writer, because this was a very solid book, and the first book was very enjoyable. i just think that this is definitely going to be considered a low point in the series save for the massive plot twist and cliffhanger, but i am excited to see how everything is wrapped up in the finale.
— three point five stars, rounded down.
would i recommend this book? eh? yes and no?
trigger warnings: violence, graphic descriptions of death, mentions of rape (not on page descriptions though), domestic abuse, child abuse, and so on.
and the crowd... exchanges confused glances!
because i really don't know how i feel about this. as a sequel, it is solid, though i think it does fall to the dreaded second book curse, where the second book isn't as strong as the first. i definitely prefer the first book to this one, for a plethora of reasons i will explain, but man. i'm just conflicted on what i actually think.
for starters, i think this book was unbearably slow. i forced myself through it because my best friend has been positively dying for me to read and finish it so she could talk to me about it without spoiling (she failed btw, she did accidentally let an important death slip but it was funny), but it was slow. i feel like nothing happened, even though a lot did happen, because we were at a very stagnant place in both location and time. monroe is obviously still trying to work through what happened to her in the last book and make peace with both who she is now that she doesn't have the culling to worry about while also juggling the fact that most of the rebels simply don't like her because of her ability. and i think because we have to follow monroe processsing this trauma for the story and narrative to actually make sense, i do understand why the pacing was off for this book. and as much as i hate slow books, i would almost prefer it this way, as it develops monroe and gives us more insight to the world around them post-culling, no matter how boring it was to read.
that being said, another thing i genuinely did not like was how much focus was put on the love triangle/love interests. monroe is battling through immense trauma, between killing the girls in the arena and helping overthrow the monarchy to even being treated like garbage by members of the culled... only for most of her focus to be on cohen and kai. i don't think that it was bad that there was romance in the book, but i felt that much of it felt forced. if you want to write a romantic fantasy, please, by all means, do, but this series is one i feel should be more focused on the politics of the world, especially since they hold such high stakes. instead, much of monroe's free time (and thus, what we read) is spent thinking about how much or how little she feels towards the love interests, and that's just... i would have preferred the politics of the world to have taken center stage more than the romances.
on that note, can we please talk about how kai (callahan) literally came out of nowhere? because while i preferred him as a love interest to cohen, the fact that he wasn't mentioned in the last book at all and then suddenly popped up and became super important to both monroe and the plot felt a little... forced, in a way. like the author needed a plot device to make an idea she had make sense, and kai was the result of that. again, don't get me wrong, i enjoyed his character and i was very shocked by the twist at the end, but i can't deny that he felt forced. or, at the very least, the love triangle did, because i could have accepted the twist had he not been forced into a love triangle with monroe and cohen.
yk i’m at work and i had to edit this in because i’m still mad about it but there’s something that’s revealed towards the end (it’s a death, but because of spoilers im not gonna say who) that should have been an earth shattering thing for monroe… but she literally brushes past it like it didn’t even happen??? and that frustrates me because had she had a bigger reaction to it, the twist from kai would’ve been that much better. ugh.
the story took a turn around the 60% mark, which i'm grateful for, because everything past then was very entertaining to read, but i still had a lot of issues with the book, which is why i docked a star and a half from my rating. i think as far as a second book goes, it's very solid, but i reached the end and just felt unsatisfied with many of the story choices and how a lot of things played out.
i do have some high hopes for the third book, though. by no means do i think crump is a bad writer, because this was a very solid book, and the first book was very enjoyable. i just think that this is definitely going to be considered a low point in the series save for the massive plot twist and cliffhanger, but i am excited to see how everything is wrapped up in the finale.
August 6, 2024
✰ 2.25 stars ✰
“Our story had always been about survival and a crown. And he would have made it to the end one way or the other.
I was always the uncertainty.”
I think a little recap would have been nice before the story began; true, little details were interspersed throughout that eventually reminded me of certain parts of the story, but it would have been nicer if we could have got a brief prologue of it. On the whole, though, I have to say that it was still written well - the narrative was clear and distinctive, strong portrayals of dialogue and personalities. 👍🏻👍🏻
“It’s acceptable to kill something that deserves to die. It would be so much simpler for everyone if I would play along but I keep messing up the game.
I don’t want to be what the goddess has made me.”
Monroe Benson'—goddess-touched girl who’d betrayed the prince and lied to save her own life' - was a likeable and agreeable protagonist who was not difficult to follow with her train of thought nor her actions. The story revolves around her and her temperament - her guilt over her past actions, her fear of what is unknown, her unwavering feelings for Cohen, and her expectant urge to fight to prove her worth. It boils down to her learning to control her powers and her rage - fighting to earn her place amongst the other survivors, as well as figuring out the best and most fruitful way to take action against the kingdom.
But, Of Princes and Poisons is a lengthy read - unnecessarily so, to the point where you realize that it is neither a character-driven, nor a plot-driven narrative, but one that simply exists between two points of time, that is the connection between book 1 and book 3. The storyline is very stagnant; as time is passing, character relationships are developing and interacting, but literally nothing of importance is happening, so much so that it becomes boring. We are simply waiting alongside Monroe and co. - 'all just kids being forced to grow up too fast' - for swift action to take place, in order for the plot to meander forward. 😮💨
“It had grown monotonous. I was resentful and bored. I hadn’t even really noticed I’d been doing it.
Habit and practice. Repetitive action. Training.”
See? Even the writing addressed the tediousness of the plot! 😩 I get that it is not like they are sitting idle in their rebel camps, as they continue to train and regroup - setting up allies - assessing the damage and finding the suitable tactics of attack. 😪 But, it felt very tiresome and poorly handled that it was difficult to force myself to continue trudging along the listlessness of the plot- 'the waiting and wondering is worse.' Even though, again, THINGS were happening. Dynamics were being made, tensions were shifting, danger and threats were looming, and new relationships were forging, but it just felt purposeless. 😴
Much like its predecessor, though, it is towards the ending where it picks up momentum, which tempted me not to abandon the series just yet. One might say it was predictable, but I was caught off-guard; and I relished that feeling. 🥹 It was the most exhilarating moment for me, where I finally appreciated all the characters and embraced wholeheartedly whatever course of action Monroe would set off next.
“I . . . I didn’t want to burn you.”
“I’m the one who’s choosing to play with fire,” he whispered.
Good goddess, I was burning.”
Romance plays a pivotal part of the plot, and honestly, is the one thing that keeps the pace flowing. ♥️♥️ The characters were a likeable lot - Monroe's moments with Cohen and Callahan were touched upon nicely, and I am curious to see what will happen next in the supposed romance, especially since it went in a direction I was not quite expecting. 😟 It was a troubling read; because I acknowledge the effort and importance of highlighting everything as such, but it was done in such a cumbersome fashion that I could not appreciate, let alone enjoy it enough. But, I will still be tuning in for the finale, because it promises to be an entertaining one. 🤞🏻
“Our story had always been about survival and a crown. And he would have made it to the end one way or the other.
I was always the uncertainty.”
I think a little recap would have been nice before the story began; true, little details were interspersed throughout that eventually reminded me of certain parts of the story, but it would have been nicer if we could have got a brief prologue of it. On the whole, though, I have to say that it was still written well - the narrative was clear and distinctive, strong portrayals of dialogue and personalities. 👍🏻👍🏻
“It’s acceptable to kill something that deserves to die. It would be so much simpler for everyone if I would play along but I keep messing up the game.
I don’t want to be what the goddess has made me.”
Monroe Benson'—goddess-touched girl who’d betrayed the prince and lied to save her own life' - was a likeable and agreeable protagonist who was not difficult to follow with her train of thought nor her actions. The story revolves around her and her temperament - her guilt over her past actions, her fear of what is unknown, her unwavering feelings for Cohen, and her expectant urge to fight to prove her worth. It boils down to her learning to control her powers and her rage - fighting to earn her place amongst the other survivors, as well as figuring out the best and most fruitful way to take action against the kingdom.
But, Of Princes and Poisons is a lengthy read - unnecessarily so, to the point where you realize that it is neither a character-driven, nor a plot-driven narrative, but one that simply exists between two points of time, that is the connection between book 1 and book 3. The storyline is very stagnant; as time is passing, character relationships are developing and interacting, but literally nothing of importance is happening, so much so that it becomes boring. We are simply waiting alongside Monroe and co. - 'all just kids being forced to grow up too fast' - for swift action to take place, in order for the plot to meander forward. 😮💨
“It had grown monotonous. I was resentful and bored. I hadn’t even really noticed I’d been doing it.
Habit and practice. Repetitive action. Training.”
See? Even the writing addressed the tediousness of the plot! 😩 I get that it is not like they are sitting idle in their rebel camps, as they continue to train and regroup - setting up allies - assessing the damage and finding the suitable tactics of attack. 😪 But, it felt very tiresome and poorly handled that it was difficult to force myself to continue trudging along the listlessness of the plot- 'the waiting and wondering is worse.' Even though, again, THINGS were happening. Dynamics were being made, tensions were shifting, danger and threats were looming, and new relationships were forging, but it just felt purposeless. 😴
Much like its predecessor, though, it is towards the ending where it picks up momentum, which tempted me not to abandon the series just yet. One might say it was predictable, but I was caught off-guard; and I relished that feeling. 🥹 It was the most exhilarating moment for me, where I finally appreciated all the characters and embraced wholeheartedly whatever course of action Monroe would set off next.
“I . . . I didn’t want to burn you.”
“I’m the one who’s choosing to play with fire,” he whispered.
Good goddess, I was burning.”
Romance plays a pivotal part of the plot, and honestly, is the one thing that keeps the pace flowing. ♥️♥️ The characters were a likeable lot - Monroe's moments with Cohen and Callahan were touched upon nicely, and I am curious to see what will happen next in the supposed romance, especially since it went in a direction I was not quite expecting. 😟 It was a troubling read; because I acknowledge the effort and importance of highlighting everything as such, but it was done in such a cumbersome fashion that I could not appreciate, let alone enjoy it enough. But, I will still be tuning in for the finale, because it promises to be an entertaining one. 🤞🏻
September 23, 2024
3,5 stars
So firstly, to everybody thinking this will be a duology: it´s not, so be aware of this!! This does end in a big cliffy and the third book isn´t even announced on GR yet!
This is a one POV book, told by the POV of Monroe.
I liked how Monroe evolved as a character in here and started to learn a bit more patience and self reflecting. I liked how she grew closer with the other characters and we almost have a found family trope feeling. I just wish we would have also seen her practise her powers or her physical abilities a bit more, maybe learning more about fighting. That was missing a bit to me. The love interest does shift in this book and we have a love triangle, which I am normally not the biggest fan of, but it got resolved in this book.
Regarding side characters I really loved Uri and she had grown on me. I also loved to learn more about Heidi and Nadia and how those four grew closer to each other. I really liked the addition of new side characters as well as getting "re-introduced" to old ones and learning more about them. I hope there will be some more background information to the new characters in the next book.
Plotwise this does suffer a bit from second book syndrome and that is also where I deduct the stars. I absolutely loved the first half of the book; the tension is there, it´s a good balance between action scenes and character development and it gives the book a sense of moving somewhere. Towards the middle the book started to feel like loads of filler material, I didn´t really get the feeling we were moving anywhere and the love triangle started to annoy me a bit. The ending picks back up again, with more action happening, a faster pace and "things getting done". But I have to say through all of that the pacing of the book itself suffered a bit for me. It´s fast paced in the first half and the ending, but the middle part of the book felt slow paced and a bit dragging to me. Like I already mentioned, this does end in a big cliffhanger, so if you are somebody who doesn´t really like that I´d advise to wait until the third book is announced or out. Since this is a YA, you will also not find any spicy scenes in here.
Overall it was a great read that just had some minor problems for me.
trigger warnings: death/murder, loss of loved ones, domestic abuse (mentioned)
So firstly, to everybody thinking this will be a duology: it´s not, so be aware of this!! This does end in a big cliffy and the third book isn´t even announced on GR yet!
This is a one POV book, told by the POV of Monroe.
I liked how Monroe evolved as a character in here and started to learn a bit more patience and self reflecting. I liked how she grew closer with the other characters and we almost have a found family trope feeling. I just wish we would have also seen her practise her powers or her physical abilities a bit more, maybe learning more about fighting. That was missing a bit to me. The love interest does shift in this book and we have a love triangle, which I am normally not the biggest fan of, but it got resolved in this book.
Regarding side characters I really loved Uri and she had grown on me. I also loved to learn more about Heidi and Nadia and how those four grew closer to each other. I really liked the addition of new side characters as well as getting "re-introduced" to old ones and learning more about them. I hope there will be some more background information to the new characters in the next book.
Plotwise this does suffer a bit from second book syndrome and that is also where I deduct the stars. I absolutely loved the first half of the book; the tension is there, it´s a good balance between action scenes and character development and it gives the book a sense of moving somewhere. Towards the middle the book started to feel like loads of filler material, I didn´t really get the feeling we were moving anywhere and the love triangle started to annoy me a bit. The ending picks back up again, with more action happening, a faster pace and "things getting done". But I have to say through all of that the pacing of the book itself suffered a bit for me. It´s fast paced in the first half and the ending, but the middle part of the book felt slow paced and a bit dragging to me. Like I already mentioned, this does end in a big cliffhanger, so if you are somebody who doesn´t really like that I´d advise to wait until the third book is announced or out. Since this is a YA, you will also not find any spicy scenes in here.
Overall it was a great read that just had some minor problems for me.
trigger warnings: death/murder, loss of loved ones, domestic abuse (mentioned)
July 1, 2024
Absolutely loved this book and I really hope there will be a book 3 with how this one ended! I devoured this series and it was truly incredible. I absolutely loved the characters. I loved getting introduced to a few new characters in this one including Callahan (Kai) in this book and I am so glad what happened, happened. (No Spoilers)
I highly recommend this series to each and every one of you, especially if you love The Hunger Games/The Selection vibe feels but add in some great powers, drama, romance and you get The Culled Crown Series!
I highly recommend this series to each and every one of you, especially if you love The Hunger Games/The Selection vibe feels but add in some great powers, drama, romance and you get The Culled Crown Series!
December 3, 2020
Really enjoyed every second of it. The story is amazing. And the characters... just brilliant.
July 29, 2024
This series just continues to pull on my heartstrings! The lies!! The betrayal.
But it’s SO GOOD. I love the growth and character arcs among many characters and not just Monroe and Cohen. We have Callahan/Kai in this one, and his role is just as important.
I loved the growth in Monroe and Cohen— mainly Monroe tbh— as she’s finally becoming her own person and making her own decisions that aren’t completely life or death. We see how she learns more about relationships and love and the different kinds of love.
This book made me cry multiple times, but I also laughed because there was some good banter. I felt for Cohen, such sucky luck he has.
Thank you Wattpad for letting Caitlin and I host the author for our indie book club! We had a fantastic time reading and discussing these books and absolutely cannot wait for the next one!!
But it’s SO GOOD. I love the growth and character arcs among many characters and not just Monroe and Cohen. We have Callahan/Kai in this one, and his role is just as important.
I loved the growth in Monroe and Cohen— mainly Monroe tbh— as she’s finally becoming her own person and making her own decisions that aren’t completely life or death. We see how she learns more about relationships and love and the different kinds of love.
This book made me cry multiple times, but I also laughed because there was some good banter. I felt for Cohen, such sucky luck he has.
Thank you Wattpad for letting Caitlin and I host the author for our indie book club! We had a fantastic time reading and discussing these books and absolutely cannot wait for the next one!!
April 17, 2024
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. (via Netgalley)
4.5 stars. DANG THAT ENDING AND I'M SUPPOSED TO JUST WAIT FOR THE NEXT ONE??? I had a theory about one of the plot points and while I was *technically* correct I did not expect the end to unravel quite the way it did. I need the next one please!
4.5 stars. DANG THAT ENDING AND I'M SUPPOSED TO JUST WAIT FOR THE NEXT ONE??? I had a theory about one of the plot points and while I was *technically* correct I did not expect the end to unravel quite the way it did. I need the next one please!
June 6, 2024
Brianna Joy Crump is definitely becoming one of those authors that I will be reading everything they write. I read book one in The Culled Crown series a couple years ago and have been patiently waiting for book two to come out since then. I did find this one to have a little bit of a slow start and trying re-familiarize myself with the world and characters after waiting so long between books; however, once I got to a certain point, I had a hard time putting this book down. There were so many unexpected twists and turns throughout the book. And while I have fully switched over to which team I’m on, this was done very well. I look forward to continuing this series and reading more books by this author!
June 10, 2024
Damn.
It’s rare that I prefer the second book in a series over the first, but this is an exception. I experienced a roller coaster of emotions while reading this book. I fell out of love and I fell in love. I laughed, I cried, I grieved. The final part hit me like a gut punch. Book 3 cannot come soon enough! It will take me a couple of days to process everything that happened.
Thank you to NetGalley and Wattpad books for providing this ARC.
It’s rare that I prefer the second book in a series over the first, but this is an exception. I experienced a roller coaster of emotions while reading this book. I fell out of love and I fell in love. I laughed, I cried, I grieved. The final part hit me like a gut punch. Book 3 cannot come soon enough! It will take me a couple of days to process everything that happened.
Thank you to NetGalley and Wattpad books for providing this ARC.
October 20, 2024
I was not prepared for the love and loss the second book in this series provided me. I’m excited to see how the story concludes in the third book!
June 22, 2024
I was so excited to get an advanced copy of the second book in The Culled Crown series when I did. I was in such a book slump and DNFed three books before this came in the mail. I read and loved OF Cages and Crowns, and jumped into Of Princes and Poisons as soon as I got it. After the super intense ending of OPAP, I couldn’t wait to find out what happened to Monroe and Cohen. The story went in an unpredictable direction, and I thought it was great!
Monroe’s story is so fascinating, and she sometimes gave me Katniss Everdeen vibes. Since that’s one of my favorite all-time YA characters, you’ll get no complaints from me. Her character is so conflicted and confused and traumatized, and she doesn’t know who she can trust and depend on. I don’t blame her. She’s caught so many people lying to her and keeping secrets! She’s also dealing with her unharnessed powers, which proves to be more of an issue than expected.
The relationship between Monroe and Cohen went in an entirely different direction than I expected, but it made sense. Now that they are away from the chaos of the competition, they begin to see how different they are. Their visions don’t align, and they have both hurt each other badly. The story definitely paints Cohen more as an antagonist in this one, and he is painted in a pretty harsh, albeit truthful light. I hate how he speaks to Monroe and makes her feel less than. He talks down to her and gaslights, and his behavior feels so toxic. He doesn’t ever let her speak and constantly cuts her off. I think there are layers to his character, and in this book we see the unflattering desperation of a man who has lost everything and has taken it out on the person he blames the most.
While adjusting to her new life, not as a prisoner but not completely free either, Monroe develops a bond with a moody, broody, gorgeous, and intelligent commander. I never expected to fall out of love with one love interest and fall in love with another, but I totally did. Kai is complicated and mysterious and fabulous, and the love story between him and Monroe is as layered and compelling as the characters. Other characters and friendships are great, too, and some of them broke my heart a little bit.
The story delves deeply into the trauma Monroe and the other competitors struggle with, and it’s done in a way that really shows the mess of emotions they all feel. It was well done and exemplified how people deal with grief, loss, and trauma differently. The world-building is also fantastic, and the author does a fantastic job of creating a vivid and immersive world both in the first book and in this one. Now that Monroe, Cohen, and the others are with the rebels, they learn more about people’s feelings toward the goddess-touched girls and the royal family. Distrust, political intrigue, power struggles, unusual magic, and more make for an engrossing read.
The story has a ton of character development, the plot is intriguing, and the romances and friendships are complicated and layered. It’s a strong balance of all of the elements I love in a romantasy. And after that shocking twist of an ending, I can’t wait to read the next book!
Special thanks to Wattpad Books for providing me with a copy of the book. ALl thoughts are my own.
Monroe’s story is so fascinating, and she sometimes gave me Katniss Everdeen vibes. Since that’s one of my favorite all-time YA characters, you’ll get no complaints from me. Her character is so conflicted and confused and traumatized, and she doesn’t know who she can trust and depend on. I don’t blame her. She’s caught so many people lying to her and keeping secrets! She’s also dealing with her unharnessed powers, which proves to be more of an issue than expected.
The relationship between Monroe and Cohen went in an entirely different direction than I expected, but it made sense. Now that they are away from the chaos of the competition, they begin to see how different they are. Their visions don’t align, and they have both hurt each other badly. The story definitely paints Cohen more as an antagonist in this one, and he is painted in a pretty harsh, albeit truthful light. I hate how he speaks to Monroe and makes her feel less than. He talks down to her and gaslights, and his behavior feels so toxic. He doesn’t ever let her speak and constantly cuts her off. I think there are layers to his character, and in this book we see the unflattering desperation of a man who has lost everything and has taken it out on the person he blames the most.
While adjusting to her new life, not as a prisoner but not completely free either, Monroe develops a bond with a moody, broody, gorgeous, and intelligent commander. I never expected to fall out of love with one love interest and fall in love with another, but I totally did. Kai is complicated and mysterious and fabulous, and the love story between him and Monroe is as layered and compelling as the characters. Other characters and friendships are great, too, and some of them broke my heart a little bit.
The story delves deeply into the trauma Monroe and the other competitors struggle with, and it’s done in a way that really shows the mess of emotions they all feel. It was well done and exemplified how people deal with grief, loss, and trauma differently. The world-building is also fantastic, and the author does a fantastic job of creating a vivid and immersive world both in the first book and in this one. Now that Monroe, Cohen, and the others are with the rebels, they learn more about people’s feelings toward the goddess-touched girls and the royal family. Distrust, political intrigue, power struggles, unusual magic, and more make for an engrossing read.
The story has a ton of character development, the plot is intriguing, and the romances and friendships are complicated and layered. It’s a strong balance of all of the elements I love in a romantasy. And after that shocking twist of an ending, I can’t wait to read the next book!
Special thanks to Wattpad Books for providing me with a copy of the book. ALl thoughts are my own.
March 15, 2024
I absolutely loved the first book in this series and couldn't wait to read Of Princes and Poisons. Unfortunately, this book did not live up to the first.
**Spoilers**
While I still enjoyed some aspects of this book, I couldn't get over Monroe's sudden change in feelings toward Cohen. I felt cheated that we didn't get to see them as a couple. I had really wanted to delve deeper into Cohen's character in this book; however, the author decided to simply cast him as a villain and move onto another love interest for Monroe. Personally, I still find Cohen as a more interesting character than Kai, and I hope we get that character background and development in the next book.
The ending was what saved this book for me. While the big "twist" was pretty predictable, I did not expect the death. I think the ending sets up for what could be an amazing third book in this series. Second books in trilogies are not always the best, so I will definitely give the concluding book a shot. Plus, I really do want to find out how this story ends.
**Spoilers**
While I still enjoyed some aspects of this book, I couldn't get over Monroe's sudden change in feelings toward Cohen. I felt cheated that we didn't get to see them as a couple. I had really wanted to delve deeper into Cohen's character in this book; however, the author decided to simply cast him as a villain and move onto another love interest for Monroe. Personally, I still find Cohen as a more interesting character than Kai, and I hope we get that character background and development in the next book.
The ending was what saved this book for me. While the big "twist" was pretty predictable, I did not expect the death. I think the ending sets up for what could be an amazing third book in this series. Second books in trilogies are not always the best, so I will definitely give the concluding book a shot. Plus, I really do want to find out how this story ends.
June 12, 2024
This book succumbed to the middle book curse. I had such high hopes for this series and I definitely will continue to read this series as the ending picked up. I felt like nothing happened throughout this book. If I could sum up this story in 3 sentences I probably could.
Monroe finds herself in the thick of the rebellion with Cohen, Nadia and Heidi as they navigate their new life and the obstacles it holds.
Thank you Brianna Joy Crump, Netgalley and Wattpad WEBTOON Book Group for sending me an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
3/5 stars due to how boring this book was, but I will continue with the series as it made me excited to read how this series end.
Monroe finds herself in the thick of the rebellion with Cohen, Nadia and Heidi as they navigate their new life and the obstacles it holds.
Thank you Brianna Joy Crump, Netgalley and Wattpad WEBTOON Book Group for sending me an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
3/5 stars due to how boring this book was, but I will continue with the series as it made me excited to read how this series end.
May 29, 2024
I didn't read the first one, but trying to follow this story didn't seem to cause too much of an issue if you didn’t read it which was nice. This did come off as if there was a lot of filler in it rather than being as flushed out as it could have been. I felt like the story didn't really have much happening until the 4th part and even then stuff didn't really start clicking. The author is very engaging; I had a hard time stopping when I needed to. I liked the secondary characters. They seem fleshed out well, and we have more of their backstory.
The overall story was good, and there were some twists and turns. But the ending felt lackluster for a 500-page story.
The overall story was good, and there were some twists and turns. But the ending felt lackluster for a 500-page story.
June 4, 2024
I am absolutely obsessed with this series!
While this one definitely had second book syndrome (slower and more plot building) it was still so good!! The ending had me on the edge of my seat and I may never recover from the loss of one of my favourite characters 😭
The twist in this was so good and I cannot wait for the next book!!!
A huge thank you to Wattpad Books and Netgalley for a digital copy to read and review
While this one definitely had second book syndrome (slower and more plot building) it was still so good!! The ending had me on the edge of my seat and I may never recover from the loss of one of my favourite characters 😭
The twist in this was so good and I cannot wait for the next book!!!
A huge thank you to Wattpad Books and Netgalley for a digital copy to read and review
January 15, 2023
This damn story will break me. Midway through number 3 and stalling cause I don’t want it to end. Simply amazing, worth getting a premium account on Wattpad (and figuring out wat the hell a wattpad is haha)!!
August 1, 2024
4.5 stars
March 23, 2025
Read this as a buddy read and really enjoyed it. Though I don’t remember the first book at all I was still able to understand what was happening in this book. I love Kai, that is all
October 30, 2024
5 stars.
i really liked the direction this book went in.
callahan is officially my new favourite character. i loved the banter between him and monroe, there were so many iconic moments with them. i loved how caring he was. he definitely has issues, and he did make some choices that i was not very happy with, but i’m hoping that he’ll be able to make up for his mistakes in the next book.
it was really interesting seeing the characters in a new environment. i enjoyed reading about how the goddess-touched girls could use their powers in a way that helped the camp, rather than for destructive purposes.
i’m also glad we learned more about larkin and her powers. i was skeptical about it when it was introduced in the first book, but the explanation was well thought out and really works with the worldbuilding rules set up at the beginning of the series, so i’m satisfied.
i can’t wait to read the next book whenever it comes out!
i really liked the direction this book went in.
callahan is officially my new favourite character. i loved the banter between him and monroe, there were so many iconic moments with them. i loved how caring he was. he definitely has issues, and he did make some choices that i was not very happy with, but i’m hoping that he’ll be able to make up for his mistakes in the next book.
it was really interesting seeing the characters in a new environment. i enjoyed reading about how the goddess-touched girls could use their powers in a way that helped the camp, rather than for destructive purposes.
i’m also glad we learned more about larkin and her powers. i was skeptical about it when it was introduced in the first book, but the explanation was well thought out and really works with the worldbuilding rules set up at the beginning of the series, so i’m satisfied.
i can’t wait to read the next book whenever it comes out!
June 21, 2024
4.25
If there is a book series that I think people are sleeping on, it is THIS ONE! I had the pleasure of being an ARC reader for the first book, Of Cages and Crowns, and was so excited when I saw that book 2 was coming out and needed readers.
This series is basically the Hunger Games meets the Bachelor with some Red Queen and Selection series thrown in as well. 10 girls in the kingdom are Goddess blessed with magical powers and have to participate in the Culling, a series of trials that take place when the prince comes of age in which only one girl survives and she will become the next queen and marries the heir. Monroe is the FMC and has fire power and is SUCH a baddie. Now throw in a rebellion, tentative friendships, and a few secrets and lies, and you get an exciting tale that keeps you hooked the whole time!
From here and below I’ll be talking about the plot of book 2, which will include spoilers of what happens in book 1, so don’t read unless you’ve finished!
Read this book if you are a fan of upper YA fantasy, high stakes adventures, intriguing magical systems, found family, and alll the angst and trauma!
If there is a book series that I think people are sleeping on, it is THIS ONE! I had the pleasure of being an ARC reader for the first book, Of Cages and Crowns, and was so excited when I saw that book 2 was coming out and needed readers.
This series is basically the Hunger Games meets the Bachelor with some Red Queen and Selection series thrown in as well. 10 girls in the kingdom are Goddess blessed with magical powers and have to participate in the Culling, a series of trials that take place when the prince comes of age in which only one girl survives and she will become the next queen and marries the heir. Monroe is the FMC and has fire power and is SUCH a baddie. Now throw in a rebellion, tentative friendships, and a few secrets and lies, and you get an exciting tale that keeps you hooked the whole time!
From here and below I’ll be talking about the plot of book 2, which will include spoilers of what happens in book 1, so don’t read unless you’ve finished!
Read this book if you are a fan of upper YA fantasy, high stakes adventures, intriguing magical systems, found family, and alll the angst and trauma!
March 18, 2021
Amazing book! It's a definite must read!
October 12, 2023
Was worth paying for premium+ to read this. Wouldn’t have minded having more of Cohen/Monroe toxic relationship before second love interest showed up.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 4, 2023
Absolutely loved this second book! So many emotions! Can’t wait to read the 3rd book! ❤️
April 24, 2024
Nothing is as it was before, leaving room for unknown dangers, growing mistrust, and intrigue beneath the intrigue.
After killing the King and Queen, Monroe and her 'friends' from the Culling find themselves with the rebels. Not only were the promises of an open armed invitation null and void, all of them find themselves teetering on a thin line just off of execution. A new fight for survival begins, one which is very different than the Trials. Wounds, inside and out, are tough to heal, especially when the difference between friends and foe is blurred all over again. Monroe's a constant breath's distance from death, and this time, her powers are the last thing that can save her.
First off, yay to having the second book releasing so quickly after book one! Not only does that keep disappointment after the first ending at bay, but the story is still fresh and anticipation high. So, extra kudos on that front.
This book doesn't start off where the last one ended...not exactly. (But this does need to be read as a series, since each book builds off the last.) We find Monroe captured by the rebels, separated from her group, in bad circumstances. While grabbing, I did stop reading twice to see if and where I'd missed part of the story. Instead, the happenings between the escape from the palace to Monroe's beginning in the prison occur in flashbacks over the next chapters. I'm not a huge fan of that approach.
Anyway, this book takes many surprising twists and turns, and flips everything on its head. It does a great job diving into the area of dealing with trauma and re-orientation. This was especially well done with the other two goddess-touched girls and Uri, and added quite a bit of character depth. Monroe's brother also returns, which adds a touch more on the sibling front. Monroe doesn't show much growth during this second book (unfortunately), since her head is busy more with the romance side of things and melding into the new circumstances. The action was notched down, too, thanks to the increased romance and building of a couple new characters. Instead, the threat from the palace and the growing war runs more in the background with a few high-tension moments tossed in here and there to remind that there's still a huge danger to deal with...although this does increase toward the end.
This book mostly hovers around Monroe's attempt to reorientate herself in the rebel camp and mentally deal with what she's gone through so far. Relationships formed during the Trial, both bad and good, are re-molded, and this takes time. The heaviest hitting of these is the one with Cohen as he slides into the background, at first, and a new character fills in the space to create the rift. The switching of gears is refreshing, in some ways, but unfortunately, not quite convincing to the reasons behind it, leaving the romance end with a slight sense of being off-balance. This also makes the end of this read hit a little weird, on that end. Monroe herself is more clumsy in this read, and while still to root for, doesn't come across with the same lovely strength as before.
There were many unexpected moments, exciting aspects, and grabbing twists, and it will be interesting to see how everything ties together in the last book. Because the third one in this series has the potential to be very good. I received a complimentary copy, am giving this 3.5-stars and rounding up.
After killing the King and Queen, Monroe and her 'friends' from the Culling find themselves with the rebels. Not only were the promises of an open armed invitation null and void, all of them find themselves teetering on a thin line just off of execution. A new fight for survival begins, one which is very different than the Trials. Wounds, inside and out, are tough to heal, especially when the difference between friends and foe is blurred all over again. Monroe's a constant breath's distance from death, and this time, her powers are the last thing that can save her.
First off, yay to having the second book releasing so quickly after book one! Not only does that keep disappointment after the first ending at bay, but the story is still fresh and anticipation high. So, extra kudos on that front.
This book doesn't start off where the last one ended...not exactly. (But this does need to be read as a series, since each book builds off the last.) We find Monroe captured by the rebels, separated from her group, in bad circumstances. While grabbing, I did stop reading twice to see if and where I'd missed part of the story. Instead, the happenings between the escape from the palace to Monroe's beginning in the prison occur in flashbacks over the next chapters. I'm not a huge fan of that approach.
Anyway, this book takes many surprising twists and turns, and flips everything on its head. It does a great job diving into the area of dealing with trauma and re-orientation. This was especially well done with the other two goddess-touched girls and Uri, and added quite a bit of character depth. Monroe's brother also returns, which adds a touch more on the sibling front. Monroe doesn't show much growth during this second book (unfortunately), since her head is busy more with the romance side of things and melding into the new circumstances. The action was notched down, too, thanks to the increased romance and building of a couple new characters. Instead, the threat from the palace and the growing war runs more in the background with a few high-tension moments tossed in here and there to remind that there's still a huge danger to deal with...although this does increase toward the end.
This book mostly hovers around Monroe's attempt to reorientate herself in the rebel camp and mentally deal with what she's gone through so far. Relationships formed during the Trial, both bad and good, are re-molded, and this takes time. The heaviest hitting of these is the one with Cohen as he slides into the background, at first, and a new character fills in the space to create the rift. The switching of gears is refreshing, in some ways, but unfortunately, not quite convincing to the reasons behind it, leaving the romance end with a slight sense of being off-balance. This also makes the end of this read hit a little weird, on that end. Monroe herself is more clumsy in this read, and while still to root for, doesn't come across with the same lovely strength as before.
There were many unexpected moments, exciting aspects, and grabbing twists, and it will be interesting to see how everything ties together in the last book. Because the third one in this series has the potential to be very good. I received a complimentary copy, am giving this 3.5-stars and rounding up.
November 17, 2024
I LOVE THIS BOOK. I LOVE THIS BOOK SO MUCH. I thought I loved the first book, but the second is ALWAYS better than the first.
Basically, if you love enemies-to-lovers, a main guy who actually cares about women & other people and lets the main girl make her own decisions, action, drama, trauma (yes trauma), but deeply-entrenching backstories & relationships, this book is for you. I couldn't put it down (but I had to, because, well, life tends to get in the way of my fun reading time).
SO MANY SPOILERS AHEAD. If you haven't read the book - literally spoiler city down below. I'm the kind of person who will read the spoilers and ruin the book for myself - but please don't - it's so worth it to read the book cover to cover instead of reading my spoiler-filled review.
============================================================================
*****************************************************************************
Okay. I thought I loved Monroe and Cohen, but I didn't realize that what they had wasn't truly love. And then comes in Callahan (Kai) - and he was basically speaking my thoughts on the page. If C0hen loved Monroe, why was he making her compete to the death? If he loved Monroe, why didn't he fight for her? I was like bro, Cohen, you can't be such a little wimpy b*tch - get your sh*t together and fight for your girl! And then Kai spoke so much truth it was hard NOT to love him. And immediately after Monroe gets out of the prison and he's like "wait, they didn't let you have light? they didn't use the furnace? they could've killed you!" and it was so powerful. It was obvious that he wasn't doing it because he needed her to stay alive, it was because he cared FROM THE BEGINNING! and for the right reasons.
I completely get why he lied to her. And I loved that he got the chance to explain at the end of this book - most authors make you wait for literal years before you figure it out. But honestly - once I knew that Kai's birth mother was with an Eyridian man and that it was like hush-hush, I had a hunch that he was truly an heir to the throne. Little did I know he was THE FIRST BORN HEIR to the throne!! And then I realized that the prophecy of the goddess-touched girls and the heir to the throne would still come true because Kai and Monroe love each other, and they'll end up on the throne. Which is the best-case scenario in my opinion. They can literally change the entire country for the better. (Once they dispose of Caine, of course, but I doubt that'll be easy).
I am so glad I waited to read the second book until now - I needed a truly great read to send me to another world while I battle my real-life responsibilities. I CANNOT wait for the third book! Brianna Joy Crump please release it soon - I beg of you. This series is one of my absolute favorites.
5,000,000/5 stars. Kai is literally the man we all deserve. And Monroe is a 100% certified bad*ss.
Basically, if you love enemies-to-lovers, a main guy who actually cares about women & other people and lets the main girl make her own decisions, action, drama, trauma (yes trauma), but deeply-entrenching backstories & relationships, this book is for you. I couldn't put it down (but I had to, because, well, life tends to get in the way of my fun reading time).
SO MANY SPOILERS AHEAD. If you haven't read the book - literally spoiler city down below. I'm the kind of person who will read the spoilers and ruin the book for myself - but please don't - it's so worth it to read the book cover to cover instead of reading my spoiler-filled review.
============================================================================
*****************************************************************************
Okay. I thought I loved Monroe and Cohen, but I didn't realize that what they had wasn't truly love. And then comes in Callahan (Kai) - and he was basically speaking my thoughts on the page. If C0hen loved Monroe, why was he making her compete to the death? If he loved Monroe, why didn't he fight for her? I was like bro, Cohen, you can't be such a little wimpy b*tch - get your sh*t together and fight for your girl! And then Kai spoke so much truth it was hard NOT to love him. And immediately after Monroe gets out of the prison and he's like "wait, they didn't let you have light? they didn't use the furnace? they could've killed you!" and it was so powerful. It was obvious that he wasn't doing it because he needed her to stay alive, it was because he cared FROM THE BEGINNING! and for the right reasons.
I completely get why he lied to her. And I loved that he got the chance to explain at the end of this book - most authors make you wait for literal years before you figure it out. But honestly - once I knew that Kai's birth mother was with an Eyridian man and that it was like hush-hush, I had a hunch that he was truly an heir to the throne. Little did I know he was THE FIRST BORN HEIR to the throne!! And then I realized that the prophecy of the goddess-touched girls and the heir to the throne would still come true because Kai and Monroe love each other, and they'll end up on the throne. Which is the best-case scenario in my opinion. They can literally change the entire country for the better. (Once they dispose of Caine, of course, but I doubt that'll be easy).
I am so glad I waited to read the second book until now - I needed a truly great read to send me to another world while I battle my real-life responsibilities. I CANNOT wait for the third book! Brianna Joy Crump please release it soon - I beg of you. This series is one of my absolute favorites.
5,000,000/5 stars. Kai is literally the man we all deserve. And Monroe is a 100% certified bad*ss.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 25, 2024
Rating: 5/5
I received this book for my honest opinion.
It’s not often that I love the second book more than the first but this author knows how to write a fantasy book that will give you everything that you never knew you needed. This book has magic, romance, friendships, betrayal, love triangle, amazing writing style, world building and great character development.
This book picks up right where book one leaves off, and it will take you down a different path that I was not expecting, but this author knew that was needed. This book takes place after all the events that went down in book one. Now that the Culling is over and the remaining 4 girls and 2 of the royal family are marked as traitors and the rebels camp that they were sent to, no one trusts them there. Oh and did I forget to say that Monroe is not sent to the rebel tents like her friends but she is forced into a dark jail cell and the only comfort that she has is when her guard Kai comes and bugs her to death (well she prays that she would just die). One day she is granted freedom to go live with her friends with the other rebels and is given small jobs to do around the camp. Her and her friends have a lot of trauma that they’re working through after the culling and learning how to move on from what they know, what they have seen and what they have had to do.
I loved the first book and I loved this book as well. This book has everything that the first book did but so much more because of the twists and turns that this book took. I didn’t know really what I was missing in the book until about 2/3 into and I figured it out, but when you get to the end of the book and it's just right there in your face I was still taken away by it. I loved that we got to know a little more about the magic system and to see the girls learning more about themselves and how to rely on themselves more but to truly see them come together to overcome their trauma. The found family between them, all because of a stupid horrible game for the goddess gifted women. I thought the pace was great, it was fast but it did slow down a little bit but in all the right places for me. The way this author makes sure to engage the readers throughout the book is chef's kiss.
Now I won’t say to much about the main characters other than I am so happy that Monroe focused on herself more in this book and the new love interest… I do have to say I find him to be way hotter than Cohen. I loved the love triangle vibe throughout the book, but to see her decide something for herself and to pick who and what she wanted was so amazing. I loved getting to see her growth as a character in this book and the first one. I do have to say if I was her I would be burning down the world and everyone that stood in front of me after I found out what she did. Girl…. I don’t envy you and the choices that you have next, but I can’t wait to see what Brianna will write next for you.
I could go on and on but instead…. JUST GO GET THE FIRST BOOK IF YOU HAVEN’T READ IT ALREADY, AND THEN READ THIS BOOK RIGHT AWAY because if you’re like me you will need book three and ASAP.
I want to thank NetGalley and Wattpad books for the opportunity to review this book.
I received this book for my honest opinion.
It’s not often that I love the second book more than the first but this author knows how to write a fantasy book that will give you everything that you never knew you needed. This book has magic, romance, friendships, betrayal, love triangle, amazing writing style, world building and great character development.
This book picks up right where book one leaves off, and it will take you down a different path that I was not expecting, but this author knew that was needed. This book takes place after all the events that went down in book one. Now that the Culling is over and the remaining 4 girls and 2 of the royal family are marked as traitors and the rebels camp that they were sent to, no one trusts them there. Oh and did I forget to say that Monroe is not sent to the rebel tents like her friends but she is forced into a dark jail cell and the only comfort that she has is when her guard Kai comes and bugs her to death (well she prays that she would just die). One day she is granted freedom to go live with her friends with the other rebels and is given small jobs to do around the camp. Her and her friends have a lot of trauma that they’re working through after the culling and learning how to move on from what they know, what they have seen and what they have had to do.
I loved the first book and I loved this book as well. This book has everything that the first book did but so much more because of the twists and turns that this book took. I didn’t know really what I was missing in the book until about 2/3 into and I figured it out, but when you get to the end of the book and it's just right there in your face I was still taken away by it. I loved that we got to know a little more about the magic system and to see the girls learning more about themselves and how to rely on themselves more but to truly see them come together to overcome their trauma. The found family between them, all because of a stupid horrible game for the goddess gifted women. I thought the pace was great, it was fast but it did slow down a little bit but in all the right places for me. The way this author makes sure to engage the readers throughout the book is chef's kiss.
Now I won’t say to much about the main characters other than I am so happy that Monroe focused on herself more in this book and the new love interest… I do have to say I find him to be way hotter than Cohen. I loved the love triangle vibe throughout the book, but to see her decide something for herself and to pick who and what she wanted was so amazing. I loved getting to see her growth as a character in this book and the first one. I do have to say if I was her I would be burning down the world and everyone that stood in front of me after I found out what she did. Girl…. I don’t envy you and the choices that you have next, but I can’t wait to see what Brianna will write next for you.
I could go on and on but instead…. JUST GO GET THE FIRST BOOK IF YOU HAVEN’T READ IT ALREADY, AND THEN READ THIS BOOK RIGHT AWAY because if you’re like me you will need book three and ASAP.
I want to thank NetGalley and Wattpad books for the opportunity to review this book.
March 28, 2024
Of Princes and Poisons by Brianna Joy Crump
Thank you to Netgalley, Brianna Joy Crump, and Wattpad Books for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Only four girls touched by the Goddess survived the Culling, solely due to the rebel group that Monroe joined because of her brother Ambrose. Now, the King and Queen are deceased, and Cohen is being blamed for regicide. However, what Monroe did not anticipate is that by joining the rebellion, she has merely exchanged one prison for another. The rebels despise her kind and the royal family. Monroe, Cohen, Heidi, Hugo, Uri, and Nadia are treated as prisoners and considered untrustworthy. As they grapple with the trauma of their experiences, they now face yet another challenge. They have been labeled as traitors by the self-proclaimed Queen, Larkin, who has miraculously inherited her mother's powers. Can they overcome all of these obstacles, restore peace, and bring an end to the Culling once and for all?
Trigger Warnings~ bloodshed, death of loved ones, prison trauma, toxic relationships, anxiety, panic attacks, poisoning, physical and mental abuse.
Nowadays, I usually avoid reading majorly fantastic novels as they are more intense and stress-inducing. Most of the time, I am itching to get over such books as quickly as possible. This time, too, I wanted to finish it as soon as possible - but not for the same reason. I was enthralled by the story and the writing style. I remember being impressed by the author's writing in the first book, but now I realize why. The originality and complexity of the story blows my mind. Every emotion Monroe felt was expressed so thoroughly that I could imagine her situation, dilemma, and opinions easily.
I liked Monroe's new love interest, Kai. It was wonderful to watch their attraction and attachment build gradually. The trauma suffered by all the characters was so heartbreakingly described. I hate what Uri had to suffer through by the end of the story.
Though the ending was devastating, I enjoyed reading this story and am very eager to know what happens next. Also, the title makes better sense now after this ending. I was wondering from the beginning why is it Princes and not just Prince.
If you like fantasies with love, betrayal, action, and magic, this is the perfect series to pick up. I highly recommend this book and the first book Of Cages and Crowns.
Thank you to Netgalley, Brianna Joy Crump, and Wattpad Books for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Only four girls touched by the Goddess survived the Culling, solely due to the rebel group that Monroe joined because of her brother Ambrose. Now, the King and Queen are deceased, and Cohen is being blamed for regicide. However, what Monroe did not anticipate is that by joining the rebellion, she has merely exchanged one prison for another. The rebels despise her kind and the royal family. Monroe, Cohen, Heidi, Hugo, Uri, and Nadia are treated as prisoners and considered untrustworthy. As they grapple with the trauma of their experiences, they now face yet another challenge. They have been labeled as traitors by the self-proclaimed Queen, Larkin, who has miraculously inherited her mother's powers. Can they overcome all of these obstacles, restore peace, and bring an end to the Culling once and for all?
Trigger Warnings~ bloodshed, death of loved ones, prison trauma, toxic relationships, anxiety, panic attacks, poisoning, physical and mental abuse.
Nowadays, I usually avoid reading majorly fantastic novels as they are more intense and stress-inducing. Most of the time, I am itching to get over such books as quickly as possible. This time, too, I wanted to finish it as soon as possible - but not for the same reason. I was enthralled by the story and the writing style. I remember being impressed by the author's writing in the first book, but now I realize why. The originality and complexity of the story blows my mind. Every emotion Monroe felt was expressed so thoroughly that I could imagine her situation, dilemma, and opinions easily.
I liked Monroe's new love interest, Kai. It was wonderful to watch their attraction and attachment build gradually. The trauma suffered by all the characters was so heartbreakingly described. I hate what Uri had to suffer through by the end of the story.
Though the ending was devastating, I enjoyed reading this story and am very eager to know what happens next. Also, the title makes better sense now after this ending. I was wondering from the beginning why is it Princes and not just Prince.
If you like fantasies with love, betrayal, action, and magic, this is the perfect series to pick up. I highly recommend this book and the first book Of Cages and Crowns.
July 10, 2024
Actual Rating 1.5
Monroe is one of four goddess-touched girls who have survived the trials of the Culling so far. But her future is looking precarious as choices she made during her trials are forcing her into dangerous and unknown situations. And on top of this, she’s beginning to find herself drawn to someone completely unexpected, someone who has secrets of his own.
I requested this one because I read the first book in the series a couple of years ago and enjoyed it, so I had high hopes for this one. But there were several things that didn’t work well for me. For one, the stakes just never felt high enough despite the predicament the characters found themselves in at the beginning of the work. There should have been tension and true grief/stress present rather than being focused on banter and the speedy beginnings of insta-love (why though).
The characters were just not good. I remember liking Monroe as a protagonist and being impressed with how well balanced she was. In this book, Monroe read like a whiney, bratty, preteen with a silly crush. It was no good. The secondary characters weren’t enough to make up for this, either, though they were generally better written than Monroe. The romance suffered greatly due to the way the characters were written. Also, the author chose to completely about-face with one of the personalities/actions of a character from the previous book to manhandle him into the new role needed for this book. And then there was the antagonist who we’re repeatedly told is dangerous and evil but is neatly shoved aside when it becomes necessary. These conveniences were majorly dissatisfying.
This book suffered from middle book syndrome. The first 25% of the book was generally just Monroe bantering with her new love interest and moaning about not being able to see her old love interest. There was also zero meaningful worldbuilding incorporated into the book, which was massively disappointing. Similarly, the setting wasn’t included well either, leaving the whole book feeling ungrounded.
The book was still readable, so if you’re a diehard fan of the series you may enjoy this one. To me, it was nowhere near as good as the first book, and I don’t think I’ll be checking out book three. My thanks to NetGalley and Wattpad Books for allowing me to read this work. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Monroe is one of four goddess-touched girls who have survived the trials of the Culling so far. But her future is looking precarious as choices she made during her trials are forcing her into dangerous and unknown situations. And on top of this, she’s beginning to find herself drawn to someone completely unexpected, someone who has secrets of his own.
I requested this one because I read the first book in the series a couple of years ago and enjoyed it, so I had high hopes for this one. But there were several things that didn’t work well for me. For one, the stakes just never felt high enough despite the predicament the characters found themselves in at the beginning of the work. There should have been tension and true grief/stress present rather than being focused on banter and the speedy beginnings of insta-love (why though).
The characters were just not good. I remember liking Monroe as a protagonist and being impressed with how well balanced she was. In this book, Monroe read like a whiney, bratty, preteen with a silly crush. It was no good. The secondary characters weren’t enough to make up for this, either, though they were generally better written than Monroe. The romance suffered greatly due to the way the characters were written. Also, the author chose to completely about-face with one of the personalities/actions of a character from the previous book to manhandle him into the new role needed for this book. And then there was the antagonist who we’re repeatedly told is dangerous and evil but is neatly shoved aside when it becomes necessary. These conveniences were majorly dissatisfying.
This book suffered from middle book syndrome. The first 25% of the book was generally just Monroe bantering with her new love interest and moaning about not being able to see her old love interest. There was also zero meaningful worldbuilding incorporated into the book, which was massively disappointing. Similarly, the setting wasn’t included well either, leaving the whole book feeling ungrounded.
The book was still readable, so if you’re a diehard fan of the series you may enjoy this one. To me, it was nowhere near as good as the first book, and I don’t think I’ll be checking out book three. My thanks to NetGalley and Wattpad Books for allowing me to read this work. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
May 30, 2024
Thank you to the author and the publisher, Wattpad WEBTOON Books, for sharing an ARC of this book with me on NetGalley!!
“Because even on the darkest day here, in this goddess-forsaken place, I am alive. And if I were still in your beautiful palace, I would probably be dead —either because of your mother, or Larkin, or one of the trials. I can't regret choosing my life."
“It was fire.
It was ash.
It was smoke.”
"Please don't cry, Monroe. I don't know what to do when you cry. I can take the burning and the yelling and the cursing at me. I can handle you calling me names. I can take you not doing what I say. But the tears . .."
Well readers, it seems that we have a new obsession unlocked !!!
I remember being very intrigued and interested in the overall plot and story from book one of the Culled Crown series but this time the author brought this second instalment to a whole new level … and I loved it!!
Monroe is back, having to face everything that happened in book one. Back with old friends and some new ones. Back with her Prince, whom she has hurt a lot and has been hurt from. Back with a rebel commander who seems to be very brooding and hotheaded but at the same time can be quite sweet. Back with some wounds that need to be healed and secrets to be uncovered. Back with complicated feelings and powers that are not fully understood and battles to face. This book was basically a rollercoaster of emotions. With pain, suffering and insecurities but also friendship, strength and love and betrayal. It also has a one bed trope which … it always appreciated !!! I feel like this book brings you bad into the fantasy passion with a twist and an undeniable push. I needed that. I needed to be hooked and this is exactly how I felt since I couldn’t put the book down!! I’m so so glad I got to read it and after that cliffhanger and plot twist … I need book three !!!
"And you'll go to Hanevyr?" I asked. "When I go, you'll come with me.
Right?"
He stared at me for a long moment. His expression flickered with sadness as he turned to look out at his tent, stripped of the things hed loved so much.
"Where else would I be?"
"Careful there, darling. Playing with matches."
"Don't you dare hide yourself from me."
"Don't. I'm not afraid of you."
“Because even on the darkest day here, in this goddess-forsaken place, I am alive. And if I were still in your beautiful palace, I would probably be dead —either because of your mother, or Larkin, or one of the trials. I can't regret choosing my life."
“It was fire.
It was ash.
It was smoke.”
"Please don't cry, Monroe. I don't know what to do when you cry. I can take the burning and the yelling and the cursing at me. I can handle you calling me names. I can take you not doing what I say. But the tears . .."
Well readers, it seems that we have a new obsession unlocked !!!
I remember being very intrigued and interested in the overall plot and story from book one of the Culled Crown series but this time the author brought this second instalment to a whole new level … and I loved it!!
Monroe is back, having to face everything that happened in book one. Back with old friends and some new ones. Back with her Prince, whom she has hurt a lot and has been hurt from. Back with a rebel commander who seems to be very brooding and hotheaded but at the same time can be quite sweet. Back with some wounds that need to be healed and secrets to be uncovered. Back with complicated feelings and powers that are not fully understood and battles to face. This book was basically a rollercoaster of emotions. With pain, suffering and insecurities but also friendship, strength and love and betrayal. It also has a one bed trope which … it always appreciated !!! I feel like this book brings you bad into the fantasy passion with a twist and an undeniable push. I needed that. I needed to be hooked and this is exactly how I felt since I couldn’t put the book down!! I’m so so glad I got to read it and after that cliffhanger and plot twist … I need book three !!!
"And you'll go to Hanevyr?" I asked. "When I go, you'll come with me.
Right?"
He stared at me for a long moment. His expression flickered with sadness as he turned to look out at his tent, stripped of the things hed loved so much.
"Where else would I be?"
"Careful there, darling. Playing with matches."
"Don't you dare hide yourself from me."
"Don't. I'm not afraid of you."
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