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The Riven Kingdoms #1
Forest of Firelight
From the author of The Silver & Orchids Series comes a breathtaking tale of two kingdoms torn apart by magic and the star-crossed lovers who set upon a perilous journey to reunite them before they fall into ruin.Enter the world of The Riven Kingdoms.After the sudden death of her brother, Princess Amalia is charged with what feels like an impossible task—she must choose the next king. Youthful thoughts of love are pushed aside as she accepts her fate, setting upon a quest throughout the kingdom to find a man worthy of her father’s throne.Little does Amalia know, someone has already set his sights on her.Rhys is a man of secrets, and his mission is befriend the princess of Renove. Coax her to trust him, convince her to follow him.Betray her when it’s time.All goes according to plan until Rhys meets the princess. Amalia is a disaster. Never has he met someone so drawn to trouble. Never has he met someone so irritatingly likable.He’s not allowed to fall for her.She could never entrust him with a crown.But, unbeknownst to them, their unlikely partnership might be the key to saving their entire world from a darkness that’s slowly creeping from the wounded earth that separates one kingdom from the next.
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 29, 2020
918 people are currently reading
4022 people want to read
About the author
Shari L. Tapscott
68 books912 followersShari L. Tapscott writes young adult fantasy and humorous contemporary fiction. When she's not writing or reading, she enjoys gardening, making soap, and pretending she can sing.
She loves white chocolate mochas, furry animals, spending time with her family, and characters who refuse to behave.
Tapscott lives in western Colorado with her husband, son, daughter, and two very spoiled Saint Bernards.
Join Shari's newsletter, and be one of the first to learn about new projects, upcoming releases, sales, and specials.
She loves white chocolate mochas, furry animals, spending time with her family, and characters who refuse to behave.
Tapscott lives in western Colorado with her husband, son, daughter, and two very spoiled Saint Bernards.
Join Shari's newsletter, and be one of the first to learn about new projects, upcoming releases, sales, and specials.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 286 reviews
July 22, 2024
This book is free on Amazon (Canada) today (07/22/2024). 🙂
✅ Nice cover
🆗 Action
🆗 World-building
❌ Romance / Insta-lust
❌ Characters
❌ Plot
Unpopular opinion coming in 3, 2, 1… Here we go!
1.5 stars, the only reason I finished it is because it is a very quick read.
After Amalia’s twin brother is killed, she becomes the heiress to the throne. Before she ascends to power though, she has to go on the Requeamare. She will have to live with the people of her lands for one year, to learn about them and to see how they live.
The ideas in this story are good, but so many things bothered me or were way too convenient. I find it hard to believe that a few weeks after her brother was killed while going on the Requeamare, Amalia leaves to do the Requeamare with only her cousin to protect her. Her parents believe that she will be in less danger if she travels under the cover of anonymity and it’s a valid point, but the girl is hopeless when comes the time to defend herself, so it does not make much sense to send her on her own for a journey that can be dangerous, with only one escort, when she’s just become the next ruler of the kingdom. She travels with expensive jewelry and her dog that is one of a kind, yet no one ever makes the connection that she might be more than a common traveler, and no one in her family thinks twice about it.
Amalia is so naïve, it’s bordering on stupidity. She keeps meeting this mysterious guy, and she knows it’s suspicious, yet she keeps looking for him. Even worse, she and her cousin never suspect that this mysterious Rhys who’s shady and always gives half-answers might be a suspicious guy. Amalia uses her real name when she introduces herself to people (because apparently, no one knows the name of the princess soon to inherit the throne), and she seems very gullible and passive. In complete opposition, she has a few moments of boldness that do not quite fit with the personality we see for 95% of the book. She has never been kissed before, yet she is not shy to ask Rhys for a kiss, twice, and do tease him when she sees that he is jealous because she’s talking with another guy (yes, it's that kind of teenage romantic drama…). She has also led a very sheltered life, it probably comes with the fact that she’s a princess, but she can’t cook, take care of her herself or even her hair, defend herself, and does not have any useful life skills.
Yeah, no it's not a quality, it's ridiculous how useless she is.
The story is told from Rhys’s and Amalia’s points of view, but sadly I couldn’t connect with them. I think the poor development of the characters is my main issue, along with the convenience (and ridiculousness) of the plot. The characters have no depth, no complexity, and after reading over 200 pages about them, from their points of view, I still don’t know much about them. Rhys could have been an interesting character, falling for the only he can’t allow himself to love, but he did not impress me either. He has been chosen to infiltrate Amalia’s court, and there are hints that he has killed before for his mission, yet he looses all common sense after spending a few days with Amalia. Gone is the tough guy driven by his mission, instead, we have a jealous teenager that can’t seem to control himself when he’s around the pretty princess. Which I could be okay with if Amalia was a more interesting character. I still don’t understand why or how Rhys ended up having sweet feelings for her, she is completely useless and boring.
This story could be described as a slow burn since not much happens between the two main characters for most of the book, but at the same time, there is a kind of insta-lust and insta-love that I did not care for at all. I rolled my eyes so many times because of the insta-love or the weird and cringy dialogues. 🙄
The world-building has some interesting bits, like the mysterious barrier that allows no one to enter or leave the kingdom, but I would have like to have more details about the land and its history. The pace is also quite fast, it’s mostly action, and we don’t have a chance to know more about the characters or the real plot. Amalia is in trouble and Rhys saves her, someone is bothering Amalia and Rhys is there to help her, Amalia is hurt, and Rhys is there for her, they are attacked while traveling but Rhys saves them, and so on…
It’s as if it’s all for nothing. Amalia gets attacked and is almost kidnapped, but does she learn to be more aware of her surroundings and more suspicious of strangers? Of course not! Anyways, this whole story feels pointless. I was really annoyed with Amalia and even with Gage and Rhys, but I was hoping for a confrontation between them, an unexpected twist, or anything else to justify reading this cheesy Twilight level insta-love, but I was sorely disappointed. There would be potential for the second book I guess if the situations the characters keep finding themselves in serve a purpose in the story instead of just randomly happening, but I will not read it for sure.
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✅ Nice cover
🆗 Action
🆗 World-building
❌ Romance / Insta-lust
❌ Characters
❌ Plot
Unpopular opinion coming in 3, 2, 1… Here we go!
1.5 stars, the only reason I finished it is because it is a very quick read.
Every generation, fire lilies light up the Renovian shorelines like scarlet banners, a much-anticipated show that announces the changing of the monarchs—a time when the current king prepares to descend from his throne and his heir prepares to ascend.
After Amalia’s twin brother is killed, she becomes the heiress to the throne. Before she ascends to power though, she has to go on the Requeamare. She will have to live with the people of her lands for one year, to learn about them and to see how they live.
The ideas in this story are good, but so many things bothered me or were way too convenient. I find it hard to believe that a few weeks after her brother was killed while going on the Requeamare, Amalia leaves to do the Requeamare with only her cousin to protect her. Her parents believe that she will be in less danger if she travels under the cover of anonymity and it’s a valid point, but the girl is hopeless when comes the time to defend herself, so it does not make much sense to send her on her own for a journey that can be dangerous, with only one escort, when she’s just become the next ruler of the kingdom. She travels with expensive jewelry and her dog that is one of a kind, yet no one ever makes the connection that she might be more than a common traveler, and no one in her family thinks twice about it.
“Tell me, Rhys. How many times can two people meet before you must rule out coincidence?”
I know what she’s asking.
“Three,” I answer, my gaze never leaving hers.
Amalia is so naïve, it’s bordering on stupidity. She keeps meeting this mysterious guy, and she knows it’s suspicious, yet she keeps looking for him. Even worse, she and her cousin never suspect that this mysterious Rhys who’s shady and always gives half-answers might be a suspicious guy. Amalia uses her real name when she introduces herself to people (because apparently, no one knows the name of the princess soon to inherit the throne), and she seems very gullible and passive. In complete opposition, she has a few moments of boldness that do not quite fit with the personality we see for 95% of the book. She has never been kissed before, yet she is not shy to ask Rhys for a kiss, twice, and do tease him when she sees that he is jealous because she’s talking with another guy (yes, it's that kind of teenage romantic drama…). She has also led a very sheltered life, it probably comes with the fact that she’s a princess, but she can’t cook, take care of her herself or even her hair, defend herself, and does not have any useful life skills.
“You are a complete and utter disaster,” Rhys breathes. Oddly, he almost makes it sound like an endearing quality.”
Yeah, no it's not a quality, it's ridiculous how useless she is.
The story is told from Rhys’s and Amalia’s points of view, but sadly I couldn’t connect with them. I think the poor development of the characters is my main issue, along with the convenience (and ridiculousness) of the plot. The characters have no depth, no complexity, and after reading over 200 pages about them, from their points of view, I still don’t know much about them. Rhys could have been an interesting character, falling for the only he can’t allow himself to love, but he did not impress me either. He has been chosen to infiltrate Amalia’s court, and there are hints that he has killed before for his mission, yet he looses all common sense after spending a few days with Amalia. Gone is the tough guy driven by his mission, instead, we have a jealous teenager that can’t seem to control himself when he’s around the pretty princess. Which I could be okay with if Amalia was a more interesting character. I still don’t understand why or how Rhys ended up having sweet feelings for her, she is completely useless and boring.
This story could be described as a slow burn since not much happens between the two main characters for most of the book, but at the same time, there is a kind of insta-lust and insta-love that I did not care for at all. I rolled my eyes so many times because of the insta-love or the weird and cringy dialogues. 🙄
The world-building has some interesting bits, like the mysterious barrier that allows no one to enter or leave the kingdom, but I would have like to have more details about the land and its history. The pace is also quite fast, it’s mostly action, and we don’t have a chance to know more about the characters or the real plot. Amalia is in trouble and Rhys saves her, someone is bothering Amalia and Rhys is there to help her, Amalia is hurt, and Rhys is there for her, they are attacked while traveling but Rhys saves them, and so on…
It’s as if it’s all for nothing. Amalia gets attacked and is almost kidnapped, but does she learn to be more aware of her surroundings and more suspicious of strangers? Of course not! Anyways, this whole story feels pointless. I was really annoyed with Amalia and even with Gage and Rhys, but I was hoping for a confrontation between them, an unexpected twist, or anything else to justify reading this cheesy Twilight level insta-love, but I was sorely disappointed. There would be potential for the second book I guess if the situations the characters keep finding themselves in serve a purpose in the story instead of just randomly happening, but I will not read it for sure.
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October 27, 2020
*happy sigh* *frustrated sigh*
I picked this one up late last night, just wanting to give it a quick peek to see what it was like. Before I knew it I was sucked in, totally invested and up way past my bedtime. Luckily, it was a nice rainy day here and I was able to curl up and finish reading. I really enjoyed this one, it reminded me how much I just love the High Fantasy genre.
I'm kind of glad I didn't read the synopsis before diving in. I like the mystery of it all, especially where the Huntsman Rhys is concerned. Is he a friend or foe? He's certainly swoony as all get out. Broody in one moment and a big softy in the next. But always a protector. Or is he? He will keep you guessing for sure. Princess Amalia was charming, endearing and just very likable. She's a bit clueless and I'm not sure if she'd ever be able to survive on her own (which sounds a lot like me), but you can't help but like her. Amalia has different kind of strength, which I liked. She is loyal, kind and brave. The sparks just leap off the pages whenever Amalia and Rhys share a scene, which thankfully is most of the book.
I typically wait for a series to be complete before reading, but I'm glad I went ahead and read this one even though the next installment isn't out for a couple months. I really loved it, it's easily one of my favorite books I've read this year, or in a long time. I love the world Ms. Tapscott has created, wasn't over the top, just a wonderful place I'd like to visit. I obviously loved the main characters, but also enjoyed the supporting cast.
I am really looking forward to this new series, highly recommend to anyone who likes to read. Seriously, if you've never read a high fantasy before, this is a great one to start with. And if you are a fan of the genre, you'll want to add this to your collection.
Content
Romance: Swoony clean.
Language: None
Violence: Mild-Moderate. Attempted kidnappings, death. Nothing graphic.
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The Riven Kingdoms Series
I picked this one up late last night, just wanting to give it a quick peek to see what it was like. Before I knew it I was sucked in, totally invested and up way past my bedtime. Luckily, it was a nice rainy day here and I was able to curl up and finish reading. I really enjoyed this one, it reminded me how much I just love the High Fantasy genre.
I'm kind of glad I didn't read the synopsis before diving in. I like the mystery of it all, especially where the Huntsman Rhys is concerned. Is he a friend or foe? He's certainly swoony as all get out. Broody in one moment and a big softy in the next. But always a protector. Or is he? He will keep you guessing for sure. Princess Amalia was charming, endearing and just very likable. She's a bit clueless and I'm not sure if she'd ever be able to survive on her own (which sounds a lot like me), but you can't help but like her. Amalia has different kind of strength, which I liked. She is loyal, kind and brave. The sparks just leap off the pages whenever Amalia and Rhys share a scene, which thankfully is most of the book.
I typically wait for a series to be complete before reading, but I'm glad I went ahead and read this one even though the next installment isn't out for a couple months. I really loved it, it's easily one of my favorite books I've read this year, or in a long time. I love the world Ms. Tapscott has created, wasn't over the top, just a wonderful place I'd like to visit. I obviously loved the main characters, but also enjoyed the supporting cast.
I am really looking forward to this new series, highly recommend to anyone who likes to read. Seriously, if you've never read a high fantasy before, this is a great one to start with. And if you are a fan of the genre, you'll want to add this to your collection.
Content
Romance: Swoony clean.
Language: None
Violence: Mild-Moderate. Attempted kidnappings, death. Nothing graphic.
Similar Books You May Enjoy...
The Riven Kingdoms Series
October 2, 2021
I only finished this book because it was so short. I did not realize what I was getting myself into.
The main character is incredibly unsympathetic. She's led a very sheltered life (can't even brush her own hair, can't cook, no life skills whatsoever), but for some reason never thought twice about being with men without a chaperone. I could not understand how the main guy could be interested in her or why she had such a bad relationship with her other brother.
Imo, this book suffers from instalove, deus-ex-machina at the end of the novel, when it comes to what the witch shared with them, and the ending is a cliffhanger, so the story is not resolved at all.
The magic and premise of splitting two kingdoms is interesting, I just wish it had been done better.
The main character is incredibly unsympathetic. She's led a very sheltered life (can't even brush her own hair, can't cook, no life skills whatsoever), but for some reason never thought twice about being with men without a chaperone. I could not understand how the main guy could be interested in her or why she had such a bad relationship with her other brother.
Imo, this book suffers from instalove, deus-ex-machina at the end of the novel, when it comes to what the witch shared with them, and the ending is a cliffhanger, so the story is not resolved at all.
The magic and premise of splitting two kingdoms is interesting, I just wish it had been done better.
June 7, 2020
My one and only complaint is this: it’s a series and the rest of the books aren’t out yet!!!! Ahhhhhh!!!!!
Dear author, please for the sanity of anyone who reads this awesome book please publish the rest of the series ASAP. I cannot be held responsible for what could happen if you don’t. 😳... 🤣
I love this author she is a favorite for sure and this book is awesome! Read. It.
Dear author, please for the sanity of anyone who reads this awesome book please publish the rest of the series ASAP. I cannot be held responsible for what could happen if you don’t. 😳... 🤣
I love this author she is a favorite for sure and this book is awesome! Read. It.
November 8, 2020
Meh, twas alright.
So we have princess, hincess, whatever.
She's like all princesses, spends her day frolicking in the gardens with her cutesy dog, and is all prim and proper. Stick up her ass yeah thats her. Princesses brother dies, she goes all sad (like all princesses do when their brother die).
Daddy says "you go girl go frolic somewhere else because that's what you have to do now that your brother died." She meets sexy Rhys.
MAY I ADD, only reason, i mean it, ONLY REASON, I picked up this book was because of the name "Rhys."
People who haven't read ACOTAR probably thinking "Who in the hell is this Rhys"
People who HAVE read ACOTAR probably thinking "OMG SEXY"
Well anyways Rhys (if you don't know) Is this really really hot guy from a series of hella amazing books where the main characters boyfriend man husbando is called Rhysand (Rhys for short).
That doesn't matter he's MINE AND ALWAYS WILL BE.
So anyways sexy man Rhys shows up and she totally goes all Bella on him because in this book unfortunately Tapscott wrote Rhys in BADLY a DISGRACE to ACOTAR. SHAME ON YOU SHARI L. TAPSCOTT! He's supposed to kidnap her into his fairyland. Instead goes all creepyass Edward on her. (is it just me or is the cover a really good fan art of Feyre and Rhys?) Yes so yeah damsel in distress blah blah blah. Lotta boring parts and honestly cringe as hell. Even the ending (which is really easy to make interesting, all you gotta do is put in a major plot twist or wrap everything up) was ehhhhh. There was a really confusing set of try hard plot twists, they didn't shock me. You can literally guess whats going to happen in the rest of the series. Princess marries Sexy Rhys they patch up the big hole in the ground and live happily ever after.
Rating: 2.5 stars 3 stars only because i felt bad for Rhys
Not terrible, not great either. So many things in the book are totally unnecessary and held on to for way too long. Plus the characters are really REALLY dull. No cleverness, just thick headed watermelons attached to a models body.
SHOULD you read it?
Depends. Are you trying to waste time or add books to your 2020 reads shelf, perhaps want to be in a princess world? Go ahead perfect.
Do you want a really good book that drags you in and doesn't let go plot twists, good writing and such? Nope not the book for you.
So we have princess, hincess, whatever.
She's like all princesses, spends her day frolicking in the gardens with her cutesy dog, and is all prim and proper. Stick up her ass yeah thats her. Princesses brother dies, she goes all sad (like all princesses do when their brother die).
Daddy says "you go girl go frolic somewhere else because that's what you have to do now that your brother died." She meets sexy Rhys.
MAY I ADD, only reason, i mean it, ONLY REASON, I picked up this book was because of the name "Rhys."
People who haven't read ACOTAR probably thinking "Who in the hell is this Rhys"
People who HAVE read ACOTAR probably thinking "OMG SEXY"
Well anyways Rhys (if you don't know) Is this really really hot guy from a series of hella amazing books where the main characters boyfriend man husbando is called Rhysand (Rhys for short).
That doesn't matter he's MINE AND ALWAYS WILL BE.
So anyways sexy man Rhys shows up and she totally goes all Bella on him because in this book unfortunately Tapscott wrote Rhys in BADLY a DISGRACE to ACOTAR. SHAME ON YOU SHARI L. TAPSCOTT! He's supposed to kidnap her into his fairyland. Instead goes all creepyass Edward on her. (is it just me or is the cover a really good fan art of Feyre and Rhys?) Yes so yeah damsel in distress blah blah blah. Lotta boring parts and honestly cringe as hell. Even the ending (which is really easy to make interesting, all you gotta do is put in a major plot twist or wrap everything up) was ehhhhh. There was a really confusing set of try hard plot twists, they didn't shock me. You can literally guess whats going to happen in the rest of the series. Princess marries Sexy Rhys they patch up the big hole in the ground and live happily ever after.
Rating: 2.5 stars 3 stars only because i felt bad for Rhys
Not terrible, not great either. So many things in the book are totally unnecessary and held on to for way too long. Plus the characters are really REALLY dull. No cleverness, just thick headed watermelons attached to a models body.
SHOULD you read it?
Depends. Are you trying to waste time or add books to your 2020 reads shelf, perhaps want to be in a princess world? Go ahead perfect.
Do you want a really good book that drags you in and doesn't let go plot twists, good writing and such? Nope not the book for you.
June 5, 2020
I'm So Excited!
I can't even begin to tell you how excited I am for the beginning of this new series by Shari Tapscott. This is what I've been waiting for! These adventure/romance books with a touch of the magical and fantasy are so good and I think this author excels in this genre. (I actually love her books in all genres but this might be my favorite.)
There are definitely secrets swirling around in this book. Intrigue and danger are everywhere. Rhys is a bit of a mystery but his story is slowly unfolding and I really like where it is going. Amalia is endearing and so easy to like. I love her sense of adventure and the loyalty she has to her family and her role as princess. Rhys and Amalia together are yummy. Too bad I have to wait for the next book. I'd sure like to read it right now!
Content: mild violence, peril, kissing
I can't even begin to tell you how excited I am for the beginning of this new series by Shari Tapscott. This is what I've been waiting for! These adventure/romance books with a touch of the magical and fantasy are so good and I think this author excels in this genre. (I actually love her books in all genres but this might be my favorite.)
There are definitely secrets swirling around in this book. Intrigue and danger are everywhere. Rhys is a bit of a mystery but his story is slowly unfolding and I really like where it is going. Amalia is endearing and so easy to like. I love her sense of adventure and the loyalty she has to her family and her role as princess. Rhys and Amalia together are yummy. Too bad I have to wait for the next book. I'd sure like to read it right now!
Content: mild violence, peril, kissing
Want to read
November 18, 2022This book is for free to own right now on Amazon! https://amzn.to/3JgpQd7
July 30, 2022
FINALLY!!
I am so happy to have found a 5-star fantasy series that has
a captivating plot,
engaging characters,
great world-building,
lots of magic and fantasy elements, and
super swoony romance...
all while keeping things on the sweet and clean side.
I COULD NOT put this book down and was completely invested in both the romance between Rhys and Amalia (hurray for forced proximity!) as well as the action and political intrigue.
Loved, loved, loved this book and now I am off to binge-read the rest of the series.
I am so happy to have found a 5-star fantasy series that has
a captivating plot,
engaging characters,
great world-building,
lots of magic and fantasy elements, and
super swoony romance...
all while keeping things on the sweet and clean side.
I COULD NOT put this book down and was completely invested in both the romance between Rhys and Amalia (hurray for forced proximity!) as well as the action and political intrigue.
Loved, loved, loved this book and now I am off to binge-read the rest of the series.
October 21, 2020
Disclaimer: This is my honest opinion. I mean no personal offense to the author.
I was excited to read this book when I first picked it up. There are a lot of books out there where a female assassin is sent to kill/capture a prince, but never the reverse. My excitement died off, however, when I met our main characters: Amalia, Rhys, and Gage (kind of). Basically it's just Amalia and Rhys. Which would be fine except for the fact that neither of these characters were interesting enough for me.
Amalia is probably one of the most naïve and helpless characters I've ever met, and basically all the book's conflicts are blamed on her ability to attract trouble. And what's worse is that most of this trouble serves absolutely no purpose to the plot: she almost gets kidnapped straight off the bat and what happens? Nothing. This weird pawnbroker follows her/bandits fight her and what happens? Nothing. Does she eventually learn to be aware of her surroundings/street smart? No, because she never really learns from her experiences. I mean, you could say that her brother trying to steal her crown was a purpose of the bandits, but it wasn't really shown. These bloody loudmouth bandits just randomly blurted out key information about her brother's betrayal like no one was listening (but of course they were), so anyone else could have told our characters the same info and there would be no difference. And it isn't the only time the book's characters were incompetent. Rhys has a crew of "tough guys" who basically have no character either. They are basically just a body count brought in so that the cast can defeat those bandits I talked about earlier.
Amalia is also extremely sheltered, which is a perfectly fine for a character. But, in Amalia's case, even after experiencing death and murder and kidnapping and just DANGER for the first time, she brushes it off and still remains sheltered, which is hard to watch. She never appears to experience true discomfort except for the apparent "cupboard sized rooms" at all the inns she stays at (oh, the horror), and her own inability to brush her hair. Yes, you heard me. Brushing her hair is hard for her. (Even if you are a princess this is a basic enough skill you should be able to do it). Unfortunately, her reactions never really feel genuine to me. I wish there was more emotion in general, like every time she sees something her brother never got to, or every time she feels sad for the loss of her future (she's giving up her chance at love). There were moments of these, but I felt like she got over these hurdles pretty quick, or just forgot about them.
I did enjoy Rhys' character a bit more: he likes Amalia, but she's the only girl he's ever truly wronged. And now he has to lie to her while pretending to be her protector, when all he wanted to do was protect his kingdom. I just wish this plot-line wasn't saved for the next book. I thought we were building to a climax where Amalia and him were going to duke it out about how he betrayed her and how she wishes he were dead or something (but it hasn't happened). In general, there wasn't really a climax in this book.
I don't really get why he likes her other than her being "happy" most of the time. She isn't very smart: she talks about wanting to learn more about the world, but she never really does. We don't see her interact with anyone other than the main cast which would be fine, if it wasn't her job to interact with her people and know her kingdom! It was so frustrating because nothing about her character was shown. It was once again told. Rhys goes off about how people couldn't look away from her smile, and how she caught everyone's attention. Yet she never really interacts with anyone and shows us this. All I wanted was for her to talk to someone besides Rhys, Gage, Kent, and Rhys' crew (for the few lines they had). But it barely happened.
Speaking of Gage, he also didn't really serve a purpose. As soon as Rhys shows up he's sort of just "in the way".
I think that if the author can develop her character's a little more, and if the situations the character's find themselves in serve more of a purpose instead of feeling random the next book will be off to a great start. I'm not sure if I will read it though.
I was excited to read this book when I first picked it up. There are a lot of books out there where a female assassin is sent to kill/capture a prince, but never the reverse. My excitement died off, however, when I met our main characters: Amalia, Rhys, and Gage (kind of). Basically it's just Amalia and Rhys. Which would be fine except for the fact that neither of these characters were interesting enough for me.
Amalia is probably one of the most naïve and helpless characters I've ever met, and basically all the book's conflicts are blamed on her ability to attract trouble. And what's worse is that most of this trouble serves absolutely no purpose to the plot: she almost gets kidnapped straight off the bat and what happens? Nothing. This weird pawnbroker follows her/bandits fight her and what happens? Nothing. Does she eventually learn to be aware of her surroundings/street smart? No, because she never really learns from her experiences. I mean, you could say that her brother trying to steal her crown was a purpose of the bandits, but it wasn't really shown. These bloody loudmouth bandits just randomly blurted out key information about her brother's betrayal like no one was listening (but of course they were), so anyone else could have told our characters the same info and there would be no difference. And it isn't the only time the book's characters were incompetent. Rhys has a crew of "tough guys" who basically have no character either. They are basically just a body count brought in so that the cast can defeat those bandits I talked about earlier.
Amalia is also extremely sheltered, which is a perfectly fine for a character. But, in Amalia's case, even after experiencing death and murder and kidnapping and just DANGER for the first time, she brushes it off and still remains sheltered, which is hard to watch. She never appears to experience true discomfort except for the apparent "cupboard sized rooms" at all the inns she stays at (oh, the horror), and her own inability to brush her hair. Yes, you heard me. Brushing her hair is hard for her. (Even if you are a princess this is a basic enough skill you should be able to do it). Unfortunately, her reactions never really feel genuine to me. I wish there was more emotion in general, like every time she sees something her brother never got to, or every time she feels sad for the loss of her future (she's giving up her chance at love). There were moments of these, but I felt like she got over these hurdles pretty quick, or just forgot about them.
I did enjoy Rhys' character a bit more: he likes Amalia, but she's the only girl he's ever truly wronged. And now he has to lie to her while pretending to be her protector, when all he wanted to do was protect his kingdom. I just wish this plot-line wasn't saved for the next book. I thought we were building to a climax where Amalia and him were going to duke it out about how he betrayed her and how she wishes he were dead or something (but it hasn't happened). In general, there wasn't really a climax in this book.
I don't really get why he likes her other than her being "happy" most of the time. She isn't very smart: she talks about wanting to learn more about the world, but she never really does. We don't see her interact with anyone other than the main cast which would be fine, if it wasn't her job to interact with her people and know her kingdom! It was so frustrating because nothing about her character was shown. It was once again told. Rhys goes off about how people couldn't look away from her smile, and how she caught everyone's attention. Yet she never really interacts with anyone and shows us this. All I wanted was for her to talk to someone besides Rhys, Gage, Kent, and Rhys' crew (for the few lines they had). But it barely happened.
Speaking of Gage, he also didn't really serve a purpose. As soon as Rhys shows up he's sort of just "in the way".
I think that if the author can develop her character's a little more, and if the situations the character's find themselves in serve more of a purpose instead of feeling random the next book will be off to a great start. I'm not sure if I will read it though.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 22, 2020
These are just fun to read. They are a little juvenile but so entertaining. If I had found these when I was 16 I would have fallen in love and read them over and over. One of my daughters is reading these and loving them. They are fun adventure stories you just can't think too deeply about. The world building is not the main point of these nor is character growth, it's just about the fun adventure and the romance. Lots of fun moments, but a little bit of the Lois Lane syndrome started happening and I was rolling my eyes a bit. I almost knocked it to 3 stars but dang these are just so much fun to read I had to give them 4. It's also a good thing the next book is already out or I would have been unhappy about the unfinished ending. If you liked these you might really enjoy the Nine Kingdoms series by Lynn Kurland.
May 27, 2021
This book was so not what I expected. I liked the writing style and the idea for the story: Princess needs to spend a year with her people and find a husband during that time. Said princess meets someone who isn't suited to be King but she falls in love with him anyway.
The way the story played out though, was kinda unexpected. That didn't have to be a bad thing but I pictured a strong character. I'm not calling her weak excactly but I was pretty annoyed by Amalia. I really liked the idea of the world she lives in, though. I'm curious to all this plays out despite the ending.
The way the story played out though, was kinda unexpected. That didn't have to be a bad thing but I pictured a strong character. I'm not calling her weak excactly but I was pretty annoyed by Amalia. I really liked the idea of the world she lives in, though. I'm curious to all this plays out despite the ending.
November 20, 2022
(5+ stars!) - Well, she did it again...
... Kept me up all night reading cuz I couldn't put it down, & now, somehow, I have to hang on till August for the next book!
Amalia is a bright girl, but she's lived an overly sheltered life. (And she's almost as opposite from Lucia of "Moss Forest Orchid" as she can be!)
Rhys is a grim man of secrets that have something nefarious to do with the princess, but he keeps getting forced into the position of her protector.
Amalia knows that Rhys is hiding something from her, but decides that the fact that he keeps saving her makes him honorable.
Their forced proximity drives the two together - Rhys most reluctantly, for some reason. It has something to do with what he's hiding. But he's not the only one with secrets, and as things get increasingly complicated, they're forced on an urgent quest that turns their worlds upside down - and Rhys is in an even bigger predicament than he realized!
The book doesn't end on a cliffhanger, per se, but it does wrap up the questions of the 1st with a launching of the conundrums that will be the 2nd - so it provides a sort of closure along with a 'to be continued' ending.
I loved the story! It started a little slowly, but it increasingly picks up speed, and I was riveted thru to the end! I can't wait to see how Shari will manage to untangle these knots!
*Romance level: passionate kisses, nothing graphic
... Kept me up all night reading cuz I couldn't put it down, & now, somehow, I have to hang on till August for the next book!
Amalia is a bright girl, but she's lived an overly sheltered life. (And she's almost as opposite from Lucia of "Moss Forest Orchid" as she can be!)
Rhys is a grim man of secrets that have something nefarious to do with the princess, but he keeps getting forced into the position of her protector.
Amalia knows that Rhys is hiding something from her, but decides that the fact that he keeps saving her makes him honorable.
Their forced proximity drives the two together - Rhys most reluctantly, for some reason. It has something to do with what he's hiding. But he's not the only one with secrets, and as things get increasingly complicated, they're forced on an urgent quest that turns their worlds upside down - and Rhys is in an even bigger predicament than he realized!
The book doesn't end on a cliffhanger, per se, but it does wrap up the questions of the 1st with a launching of the conundrums that will be the 2nd - so it provides a sort of closure along with a 'to be continued' ending.
I loved the story! It started a little slowly, but it increasingly picks up speed, and I was riveted thru to the end! I can't wait to see how Shari will manage to untangle these knots!
*Romance level: passionate kisses, nothing graphic
May 26, 2020
*Squeals* How I feel when this author comes out with a new fantasy series!!!
I was super excited to enter into a new world and this one did not disappoint. It has kingdoms separated by a magical barrier, enchanted trees and flowers, and some mythical creatures. Next you add Princess Amalia and her mysterious protector, Rhys, and this story makes for a perfect romantic/fantasy recipe!
Princess Amalia is my favorite type of leading lady. She’s fun, spunky, and a little bit disaster prone. After her twin brother is suddenly killed, Princess Amalia is assigned with the task to go on a quest throughout her kingdom to find the man she wants to marry and make him the next king (it’s a Royal tradition). However, she keeps falling into mishaps, which is where Rhys enters into the picture. He’s handsome, serious, and very mysterious. Princess Amalia knows he’s technically following her, but since he keeps saving her, she doesn’t mind...plus, did I mention he’s handsome and they clearly have tons of chemistry together. ;-)
Anyway, this is a really fun story and the first in a new series. I can’t wait to read the next one!
I was super excited to enter into a new world and this one did not disappoint. It has kingdoms separated by a magical barrier, enchanted trees and flowers, and some mythical creatures. Next you add Princess Amalia and her mysterious protector, Rhys, and this story makes for a perfect romantic/fantasy recipe!
Princess Amalia is my favorite type of leading lady. She’s fun, spunky, and a little bit disaster prone. After her twin brother is suddenly killed, Princess Amalia is assigned with the task to go on a quest throughout her kingdom to find the man she wants to marry and make him the next king (it’s a Royal tradition). However, she keeps falling into mishaps, which is where Rhys enters into the picture. He’s handsome, serious, and very mysterious. Princess Amalia knows he’s technically following her, but since he keeps saving her, she doesn’t mind...plus, did I mention he’s handsome and they clearly have tons of chemistry together. ;-)
Anyway, this is a really fun story and the first in a new series. I can’t wait to read the next one!
July 20, 2020
This is a cute book that takes its time to build into something truly lovely. At first, it starts out both heart-wrenching and slightly slow. I wasn't sure I was going to like the main girl.
But, she grew on me as the book progressed, and I could see why she would do or not do the things she does.
I think Gage was my favorite character (after a certain spoiler character who gets killed off nearly right away).
Much of the book's true plot is revealed slowly, carefully, until by the end it builds into something spectacular and thrilling in the most satisfying way. I can't wait for the next book!
But, she grew on me as the book progressed, and I could see why she would do or not do the things she does.
I think Gage was my favorite character (after a certain spoiler character who gets killed off nearly right away).
Much of the book's true plot is revealed slowly, carefully, until by the end it builds into something spectacular and thrilling in the most satisfying way. I can't wait for the next book!
November 1, 2020
This book hooked me from the first pages. I flew through it at the expense of sleep and my own responsibilities. The world building is lovely without being heavy handed. The romance is sweet and hopeful. The hero darkly noble. The heroine brave and kind. This is a fantastic start to a series!
decided-not-to-read
July 1, 2022Decided not to read it. I tried a few chapters, kept trying to persevere but it is not working. I am putting it aside without prejudice, or not too much prejudice. The princess is nice and sweet and naive, loves her dog. I bet the younger brother arranged for the murder of the eldest brother. The POV of who is clearly going to be the romantic love interest, eurgh, no. I do not care about these people, I do not want to read about them.
Light romantic fantasy can sometimes be precisely my cup of tea (as the literary equivalent of a cup of tea and a scone), but this was not working for me.
Light romantic fantasy can sometimes be precisely my cup of tea (as the literary equivalent of a cup of tea and a scone), but this was not working for me.
May 8, 2021
A very quick read. This was fun. I can how people are annoyed with the MC, but even though Amalia is naive, I do find her pretty amusing. Overall I’m happy & I liked the mystery of what Rhys’s motivation is 👀 and it ended on a fun twist!
I’ll definitely be moving on to the next one.
I’ll definitely be moving on to the next one.
September 3, 2022
4.5 stars! This was a fun and interesting book but holy cow you have to keep reading the next book in the series. Not a lot of resolution! I’m enjoying it and will continue!!
May 25, 2020
I have been in a major reading funk lately, having trouble focusing on any one genre or story, but this one intrigued me and kept me reading. As a huge fan of the Silver & Orchids series by the same author, I was really hoping this story would have a similar feel. It does, and it doesn’t. It has a similar writing style, but feels like a completely different world, with new rules, and new elements. I am intrigued by the idea of the chasm, by the elements of magic, but most of all, by Rhys and his story. I’m a sucker for a tortured hero, and Rhys is written well. I like Amalia also, and she’s very different from Lucia, the heroine of the Orchid series. She has an innocence and gentleness about her that feels genuine and appealing.
Tapscott does an excellent job of writing moments, ones that stick with you and make you feel a little (or a lot) swoony, and this book is no exception. I absolutely loved the part after the tiraith, and again at the hot springs. These moments feel organic rather than being contrived or forced, and that’s a credit to the author’s storytelling.
I have a feeling I’ll enjoy the Riven Kingdoms as much as Silver & Orchids, and that is high praise from me. I just wish I didn’t have to wait until August for the next book!
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Tapscott does an excellent job of writing moments, ones that stick with you and make you feel a little (or a lot) swoony, and this book is no exception. I absolutely loved the part after the tiraith, and again at the hot springs. These moments feel organic rather than being contrived or forced, and that’s a credit to the author’s storytelling.
I have a feeling I’ll enjoy the Riven Kingdoms as much as Silver & Orchids, and that is high praise from me. I just wish I didn’t have to wait until August for the next book!
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
June 8, 2020
2.5 stars
this is a ridiculously fast read.
I like the world building, I wish there was more. this book was all set up. We're introduced to Amalia, who is super super sheltered, usually I dislike characters like this and there were definite moments when I wanted to smack her. She's ridiculously passive. Doesn't question much or wonder about things, just takes them as is. Which I get, the girl grew up in a castle and doesn't even know how to brush her hair. Her world is small and simple. Because of that I excuse the insta love, Rhys is the first guy she's seen, ofc she's gonna fall for him, she has nothing to compare to. Rhys is fine, the whole keeping secrets and what not angst is going on with him.
this is a ridiculously fast read.
I like the world building, I wish there was more. this book was all set up. We're introduced to Amalia, who is super super sheltered, usually I dislike characters like this and there were definite moments when I wanted to smack her. She's ridiculously passive. Doesn't question much or wonder about things, just takes them as is. Which I get, the girl grew up in a castle and doesn't even know how to brush her hair. Her world is small and simple. Because of that I excuse the insta love, Rhys is the first guy she's seen, ofc she's gonna fall for him, she has nothing to compare to. Rhys is fine, the whole keeping secrets and what not angst is going on with him.
January 9, 2021
Fun story
Loved this book. It left me me with a cliffhanger so I’m glad that the next book is out so I can jump right in.
Loved this book. It left me me with a cliffhanger so I’m glad that the next book is out so I can jump right in.
August 5, 2020
Cliffhanger!
Ugh! It’s a great story with magic, betrayal, danger, and star crossed loves. I pre-ordered the next book and can’t wait to read it!
Ugh! It’s a great story with magic, betrayal, danger, and star crossed loves. I pre-ordered the next book and can’t wait to read it!
January 22, 2022
Ahhh it was so good! I’ve already started book two and I can’t stop 😅😂 Also we love a good sibling bond (Braeton & Amalia, Rhys & Tryndon).
July 26, 2020
Such a fun read! Can't wait for book 2! Medieval fantasy /action/ clean romance.
January 14, 2021
I am absolutely one hundred percent devastated. Probably even more than that. Like, a million percent. Maybe, I dunno, even a billion. How have I not picked this series up before now? It's addicting, like all the best series are. It's so fast-paced that I had to keep putting it down to savor the story or else I would have read it in one sitting. Forest of Firelight is the first book of a series so, yeah, there are loose ends. And it leaves you immediately wanting to pick the sequel up. If I had to compare it to anything I would say it's Falling Kingdoms meets The Raven and the Dove with a dash of Throne of Glass. There's adventure. There's secrets. There's banter. There's yearning. Epic, right?!?
I adore Rhys. I kept picturing him as Lorcan from ToG. I feel like they have similar personalities. I also love Amalia, our MC. She starts off as a little naive and innocent but she grows throughout the story. We get a small range of side characters I adore, too. EspeciallyLorcan's Rhys's younger easy-going but loyal brother, Tryndon.
I don't remember exactly who recommended this series, but I'm so happy they did. It's exactly my brand of book.
I adore Rhys. I kept picturing him as Lorcan from ToG. I feel like they have similar personalities. I also love Amalia, our MC. She starts off as a little naive and innocent but she grows throughout the story. We get a small range of side characters I adore, too. Especially
I don't remember exactly who recommended this series, but I'm so happy they did. It's exactly my brand of book.
February 24, 2021
Such a fun read!
I found the romance a little fast-paced—maybe even cliché—but that’s pretty much the only thing about this book I didn’t 100% like.
The plot feels fresh, and I really loved the WOW factor of how certain things were revealed. At first, I didn’t feel too drawn in or interested, but that SOON changed.
It’s addicting, ok? Get ready to read straight through it.
Super exited for what’s to come!
PS: This book is mostly clean with some kisses sprinkled in here and there.
I found the romance a little fast-paced—maybe even cliché—but that’s pretty much the only thing about this book I didn’t 100% like.
The plot feels fresh, and I really loved the WOW factor of how certain things were revealed. At first, I didn’t feel too drawn in or interested, but that SOON changed.
It’s addicting, ok? Get ready to read straight through it.
Super exited for what’s to come!
PS: This book is mostly clean with some kisses sprinkled in here and there.
June 11, 2020
Pretty rad
Some interesting twists.
I'm looking forward to the next book.
Hopefully we get to spend more time getting to know the Knights and the other secondary characters. -I'm a sucker for good secondaries- 😅
Some interesting twists.
I'm looking forward to the next book.
Hopefully we get to spend more time getting to know the Knights and the other secondary characters. -I'm a sucker for good secondaries- 😅
July 22, 2023
I really loved reading this wonderful book! I loved the characters and the plot! I had a hard time putting this really wonderful book down! I will be reading the next book in this really wonderful series!
May 13, 2022
I'm so glad I discovered this delightful series!! Romance, political intrigue, scary monsters, exciting battles--it pushes all the right buttons! Squeaky clean and lots of fun. Highly recommended!
February 13, 2025
Interesting premise and characters aren’t bad either. Princess Amalia does get on my nerves by midpoint because she seems to think she has all the answers yet makes all the wrong assumptions. Gage, her cousin, is more sidelined than utilized, and so far there isn’t really much reason to bring her wolf dog along, but our “huntsman” Rhys is suitably mysterious and his men are a good bunch to have around.
Secondary character Kent has a lot of appeal- I wish we had more of him- but I’m not sure how much we will see of him as the story moves on. Sadly, some of the scenarios we find them in are a bit thin- the reoccurrence of Kent’s sister is an annoyance more than anything, why Amalia needs Rhys to buy her things when Gage isn’t around… is Amalia not carrying pocket money?
It is obvious this is geared more for YA as Amalia spends a lot of time under her crush for Rhys when she should be keeping a clearer head. Still, there is a mystery going on and plenty of tension and we are given a storyline that is in constant motion, which keeps it from becoming stagnant.
Not sure if I care for how many storylines the author is juggling as we have the twin brother on his year learning of the kingdom, then his sister takes over and then we have a third subplot loosely brought up regarding to the youngest sibling. Add in Rhys and his agenda and you’ve got a minimum of 4 lines being woven together before we gain even more with book 2.
It’s a lot. But it’s entertaining and I am enjoying the trip this far.
Clean and geared for YA up- horrific monsters and diseases and there is triggers for kidnapping and loss of a family member.
Secondary character Kent has a lot of appeal- I wish we had more of him- but I’m not sure how much we will see of him as the story moves on. Sadly, some of the scenarios we find them in are a bit thin- the reoccurrence of Kent’s sister is an annoyance more than anything, why Amalia needs Rhys to buy her things when Gage isn’t around… is Amalia not carrying pocket money?
It is obvious this is geared more for YA as Amalia spends a lot of time under her crush for Rhys when she should be keeping a clearer head. Still, there is a mystery going on and plenty of tension and we are given a storyline that is in constant motion, which keeps it from becoming stagnant.
Not sure if I care for how many storylines the author is juggling as we have the twin brother on his year learning of the kingdom, then his sister takes over and then we have a third subplot loosely brought up regarding to the youngest sibling. Add in Rhys and his agenda and you’ve got a minimum of 4 lines being woven together before we gain even more with book 2.
It’s a lot. But it’s entertaining and I am enjoying the trip this far.
Clean and geared for YA up- horrific monsters and diseases and there is triggers for kidnapping and loss of a family member.
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