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Black Blood Fae #3
King of Merits
An Unseelie king. A halfling princess. Enemies born to end an ancient curse.
Merrin Fionbharr, the Princess of Air, has dreamed about the beautiful silver fae for as long as she can remember. In snow and blood, she sees his death, certain she is fated to save him.
The Silver King, Riven na Duinn, is obsessed with visions of the halfling Seelie princess. Too bad she’s his enemy’s daughter. But when he finds himself at Merri’s mercy, the terrible attraction only grows. Even so, for the sake of his kingdom…he has no choice but to kill her.
No matter what the Black Blood curse foretells.
** King of Merits is book 3 in the YA Black Blood Fae series. Each book has a HEA and stars a different cruel prince and his human (or in this case, halfling) fated mate.
Merrin Fionbharr, the Princess of Air, has dreamed about the beautiful silver fae for as long as she can remember. In snow and blood, she sees his death, certain she is fated to save him.
The Silver King, Riven na Duinn, is obsessed with visions of the halfling Seelie princess. Too bad she’s his enemy’s daughter. But when he finds himself at Merri’s mercy, the terrible attraction only grows. Even so, for the sake of his kingdom…he has no choice but to kill her.
No matter what the Black Blood curse foretells.
** King of Merits is book 3 in the YA Black Blood Fae series. Each book has a HEA and stars a different cruel prince and his human (or in this case, halfling) fated mate.
424 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 15, 2021
216 people are currently reading
1184 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
November 21, 2021
It’s been more than a year since this author introduced ‘King of Always’, book two in this series of her enchanted land of faeries, and believe me, I was so ready for book three. Because I had been away from this fantasy land for that long, I was concerned that I would have trouble getting involved in the story, but oh no! I began to live in the world of both the Seelie and Unseelie Courts as soon as my eyes lit on the first page.
Riven, the Silver King of the Unseelie Court has known for many years that Merrin, the Princess living in the Emerald Castle of the Seelie Court is his destiny. He sees the images in the waters of the well. Merrin, too, has a dream—a dream of Riven, although she does not yet know who he is and why she has that dream. They are destined to be together so that their love can end the Black Blood Curse and their two kingdoms can be united, as she becomes Queen to his King. But Riven is reluctant to love Merrin because he believes that he will kill her and he fights their attraction even though he wants nothing more than to hold her close. Faes and Elementals stand in their way and a war is on the verge of ending both kingdoms as our hero and heroine fight their feelings for each other.
This book, as Juno Heart’s others in this series, is so beautifully written. It is a faery tale written in an ‘olde English’ style, almost lyrical and poetic. Her word choice and figurative language work together to establish mood and image, so much so that you feel you are a character walking the pages of the book. Her imagination devises scenes that only a painter can produce for us, yet she is able to show us this magical world with words only, illustrative words that are picturesque and colourful. Words like ‘sennight’ and ‘draygonets’ have a gossamery quality, and names like ‘Cara’ and ‘Meerade’ are so suitable to the description of the creatures they belong to.
An intriguing read, far away from reality, but so arresting that we are frozen in the moment. Kudos, to you Juno Heart, for another spellbinding story.
Riven, the Silver King of the Unseelie Court has known for many years that Merrin, the Princess living in the Emerald Castle of the Seelie Court is his destiny. He sees the images in the waters of the well. Merrin, too, has a dream—a dream of Riven, although she does not yet know who he is and why she has that dream. They are destined to be together so that their love can end the Black Blood Curse and their two kingdoms can be united, as she becomes Queen to his King. But Riven is reluctant to love Merrin because he believes that he will kill her and he fights their attraction even though he wants nothing more than to hold her close. Faes and Elementals stand in their way and a war is on the verge of ending both kingdoms as our hero and heroine fight their feelings for each other.
This book, as Juno Heart’s others in this series, is so beautifully written. It is a faery tale written in an ‘olde English’ style, almost lyrical and poetic. Her word choice and figurative language work together to establish mood and image, so much so that you feel you are a character walking the pages of the book. Her imagination devises scenes that only a painter can produce for us, yet she is able to show us this magical world with words only, illustrative words that are picturesque and colourful. Words like ‘sennight’ and ‘draygonets’ have a gossamery quality, and names like ‘Cara’ and ‘Meerade’ are so suitable to the description of the creatures they belong to.
An intriguing read, far away from reality, but so arresting that we are frozen in the moment. Kudos, to you Juno Heart, for another spellbinding story.
March 9, 2024
Well Riven really dragged that book out a lot with his idiocy and lack of self awareness didn’t he? I liked Merri and while I appreciated her sarcasm, I wanted more spark from her. She fell a little flat for me. As always Merrade stole my heart, the smart sassy owl. I thought that the ending played out well and I’m intrigued by this new curse on Wyn. I read the prequel to this series first and overall, I think it was my favourite. It was a good series all in all that I enjoyed reading.
November 21, 2021
This is the third book in this series, and just as good as it's predecessors. Merris has been dreaming about a blue eyed silver haird man. When she meets him at last she realised he is the Silver King and her enemy. Riven has been watching Merris since her birth she is his obsession.. They are drawn to each other and can't trust each other or their feelings. This is a great story full on intrigue and romance. I lookk forward to reading more by this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 21, 2021
Lyrical and poetic this third entry of the black blood fae series is yet another immersive and engaging YA read. Riven and Merrin's story is driven by its expertly crafted characters and the extraordinary storytelling that pulls the reader into the land of faery and doesn’t let go until its magical and deeply satisfying conclusion. Highly Recommended!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 8, 2025
Pretty much the same review as the last, but with the added oddness of a Remesmee-esque main character who ages quicker than she should and a main love interest who is at a minimum like 30 years older than her but “doesn’t age” so it’s supposed to not be weird
November 30, 2021
One of the best parts of reading a series, is you get to visit with previous characters as old friends and see where they are now. It was that way with King of Merits. Ever and Lara are Merri's parents, Raff and Isla are ruling the Bright Court. We were introduced to Riven in Raff and Isla story but there is so much more to him. I have looked forward to Merri & Riven's story and I was not disappointed at all. The world building is well crafted and I really liked Merri - she is a strong character and handles herself well. Everything about this pulls you in and it is an wonderful ride. All the covers are amazing! I highly recommend King of Merits!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 4, 2023
why is it im so upset to part with this series, i absolutely loved it. The world Juno Heart built is amazing, characters, plot, absolutely wonderful. sad to part ways :(
November 21, 2021
This is a great fantasy romance.. I really liked it! It is fun and fascinating, with adventure and amazing characters..
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 17, 2021
I didn’t think that king of Merits could top Prince Never but it did. I was thoroughly engaged from beginning to end. The plot twists and unexpected turns made this book very hard to put down. Loved Merrin and Riven and how and there unforbidden love! Pure pleasure to read and can’t wait for the next!
February 7, 2024
Honestly best book of the series! So much better written and not as repetitive as the others. I feel like the romance was better written also. Like how the characters from the other books developed too. Almost didn’t read it d/t the others feeling like the same (some of the characters felt like they were the same people d/t behavior) definitely give this book a chance
December 22, 2024
Riven und Merri sind mitunter die besten Charaktere in dieser Serie. Dieses Buch hat viel mehr Spannung und ist mein Lieblingbuch in der Reihe.
November 27, 2021
Review of King of Merits: A Fae Romance
By Juno Heart
Delightful Fae Tale
When I selected this book, although I may have noted that it was the 3rd book in this series, I guess it didn’t register that there is background information in the first two books that would certainly make it easier to understand who the players are and what some of the names mean. For example, Merits is the Unseelie territory/court and the Faery city of Talamh Cúig is the location of the Seelie court.
Merrin Fionbharr is a half human, half Fae princess in the Seelie Court. For as long as she can remember, she’s had dreams of the Silver King, Riven na Duinn, the King of Merits, the Unseelie Court. What she didn’t know was that Riven has had the same dreams of Merri. She believes she can help him, while he believes she is his curse.
As she rides toward the mountains one morning, a purple mist envelops her and the surrounding countryside. A pathway opens that leads to a pond in a clearing and as she is starting to scoop up a drink, a voice stops her. She turns and meets Riven in person for the first time. But there’s someone else in the clearing with them, someone who doesn’t want Merri to think kindly of the Merits King. Someone who will have a part to play throughout this story.
I don’t want to tell anymore of the story than this, but I will say that this is one of the better books I’ve read about the Fae this year. There are several mysteries, including one concerning the Black Blood curse. The romance is a slow burn that you hope will be fulfilled. The world building is detailed and vivid and the character development builds with every chapter. Although this is listed as a “YA” book, it’s suitable for adults of any age. This is the first book I’ve read by Juno Heart, but I plan to read the first two books in the series and the next book when it comes out, because she’s that good.
My rating: 5 Stars!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
By Juno Heart
Delightful Fae Tale
When I selected this book, although I may have noted that it was the 3rd book in this series, I guess it didn’t register that there is background information in the first two books that would certainly make it easier to understand who the players are and what some of the names mean. For example, Merits is the Unseelie territory/court and the Faery city of Talamh Cúig is the location of the Seelie court.
Merrin Fionbharr is a half human, half Fae princess in the Seelie Court. For as long as she can remember, she’s had dreams of the Silver King, Riven na Duinn, the King of Merits, the Unseelie Court. What she didn’t know was that Riven has had the same dreams of Merri. She believes she can help him, while he believes she is his curse.
As she rides toward the mountains one morning, a purple mist envelops her and the surrounding countryside. A pathway opens that leads to a pond in a clearing and as she is starting to scoop up a drink, a voice stops her. She turns and meets Riven in person for the first time. But there’s someone else in the clearing with them, someone who doesn’t want Merri to think kindly of the Merits King. Someone who will have a part to play throughout this story.
I don’t want to tell anymore of the story than this, but I will say that this is one of the better books I’ve read about the Fae this year. There are several mysteries, including one concerning the Black Blood curse. The romance is a slow burn that you hope will be fulfilled. The world building is detailed and vivid and the character development builds with every chapter. Although this is listed as a “YA” book, it’s suitable for adults of any age. This is the first book I’ve read by Juno Heart, but I plan to read the first two books in the series and the next book when it comes out, because she’s that good.
My rating: 5 Stars!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 24, 2021
What an enchanting read! I was thrilled to get my hands on this novel and I devoured this spectacular fantasy romance in practically one sitting! The author is an expert when it comes to creating an original story with endearing characters and an engaging storyline full of adventure, intrigue, romance, and action.
Set within the rich tapestry of Faery, the world building within this novel is exceptional. The vibrant descriptions of the characters and the land are depicted in such away that one can easily visualize and get lost in this fantastical world.
I have been most curious about Riven, the Silver King of the Unseelie Court since the King of Always. Plagued by visions of Merri, he must reconcile himself to the fact that she is his destiny. But to what end? Merri is the halfling Princess of Air and the daughter of Riven’s sworn enemy. A strong and kindhearted heroine, she too knows that their lives are interconnected. This is more of a slow burn romance, but the magnetic pull between these the two is tangible and well illustrated throughout the novel. As these visions influence their interactions with each other, will they follow their hearts?
King of Merits is an interconnected standalone the Black Blood Fae series. It could be read as a standalone, I but do recommend reading the previous 2 books for a greater reading experience and also because there is an overarching thread in the series. If you enjoy exciting paranormal romances with well developed and likable characters and an entertaining storyline, then you will love this book. I highly recommend it!
Set within the rich tapestry of Faery, the world building within this novel is exceptional. The vibrant descriptions of the characters and the land are depicted in such away that one can easily visualize and get lost in this fantastical world.
I have been most curious about Riven, the Silver King of the Unseelie Court since the King of Always. Plagued by visions of Merri, he must reconcile himself to the fact that she is his destiny. But to what end? Merri is the halfling Princess of Air and the daughter of Riven’s sworn enemy. A strong and kindhearted heroine, she too knows that their lives are interconnected. This is more of a slow burn romance, but the magnetic pull between these the two is tangible and well illustrated throughout the novel. As these visions influence their interactions with each other, will they follow their hearts?
King of Merits is an interconnected standalone the Black Blood Fae series. It could be read as a standalone, I but do recommend reading the previous 2 books for a greater reading experience and also because there is an overarching thread in the series. If you enjoy exciting paranormal romances with well developed and likable characters and an entertaining storyline, then you will love this book. I highly recommend it!
December 14, 2021
King of Merits is everything a reader could want from a paranormal fae-focused romance novel. A sparky, determined halfling heroine, an equally determined, frosty fae hero, cute animal companions, flashy magic, and a dark prophecy that must be fought. As a reader of previous series books, I enjoyed the return to the world Heart has created, full of magic and personal challenges and plenty of happiness for those who manage to find their match. King of Merits, book three in the series, involves the daughter of the heroine and hero of book one, Prince of Never, and boy is her tale a doozy. A halfing and well aware of it, Merrin dreams of the cold Silver King, Riven, an enemy to her own kingdom. He has his own foreboding visions of the halfling princess. Between them might lie the end of the Black Blood curse forever…but prophecy suggests that it would also bring about the ruin of Riven’s kingdom forever. So there’s a lot drawing these two together – but also a lot keeping them apart. When Riven is injured and Merrin finds him, she decides to take him and nurse him back to health – without telling her parents. Of course there are a lot of tense moments, and a lot of happy, romantic moments, and at the end is a sweet happily ever after. Getting there is truly an adventure! I do think, especially given how many previous characters and family scenes are in the book, and how many ideas from previous books are referred to, that this is a series that is best read starting at the first book and going from there.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 16, 2025
Uhhhh I don’t even know what to think all I know is I should not have wasted my time on this series. I wasn’t planning on reading this one because the plot seemed weird (it was) but I thought I’ve already read the first two why not finish. It was better than I thought but I also regret reading it. First off, this book completely undid the plot of the past two books and changed all the characters etc. There is much left forgotten, the curse and world make little sense, and all the events were very random. I will give it this one thing which is why I finished it: at parts it is gripping and thoroughly entertaining. But at other parts it was boring, weird and all over the place. Don’t even get me started on that ending. 1. It was just gross and 2. It was completely out of the blue and served no purpose. Idc if you want a spin-off series or what that was just random and poorly written/thought out. That ending dropped it from 3.25 to a 3. At first when I started this book I considered quitting because I had no desire to read it and was bored then it picked up and I was like wow I could maybe like this. However, after that little bit that convinced me to keep reading it just went downhill and the book got more weird and random and much less sensical and thought out.
October 24, 2024
This book was by far my favorite in the series!! The chemistry between Riven and Merrin is so palpable right from the start, and it is clear why after the buildup in book 2 of the visions in addition to Merri’s own prophetic dreams. For the first time while reading this series, I found myself shocked thinking I’d reached the end (after Riven gets home safely) and then realizing that I was just past the 30% mark… Which was immediately followed by so much anticipation about what would happen next!!
I know each of these books are supposed to be standalones that build off of each other, but I really wish there was a sequel for Merri and Riven. It felt like the book ended right when their relationship solidified, which was a bit disappointing. I’d really love to see them as the main characters once more, especially how they work together as the Unseelie King and Queen. ❤️
Thank you, Juno, for another lovely journey filled with beautiful imagery and strong characters. None of the characters or relationships in these books have felt repetitive, which I applaud you for! Can’t wait for when you release the next one about Wyn and Summer!
I know each of these books are supposed to be standalones that build off of each other, but I really wish there was a sequel for Merri and Riven. It felt like the book ended right when their relationship solidified, which was a bit disappointing. I’d really love to see them as the main characters once more, especially how they work together as the Unseelie King and Queen. ❤️
Thank you, Juno, for another lovely journey filled with beautiful imagery and strong characters. None of the characters or relationships in these books have felt repetitive, which I applaud you for! Can’t wait for when you release the next one about Wyn and Summer!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 25, 2021
Here we have an amazing story, with its happily ever after ending. It has that fairytale feel to it, that leaves a lasting impression on you. The way everything is described so perfectly, it makes the story come to life. The storyline is extremely good, there are many unexpected twists that rendered me speechless. Merri is such a wonderful character, her name fits her shining personality. Both feisty and carefree until you get to know her better, and Riven he's both grumpy and conflicted. But very much worth the impending headache he seems to cause poor Merri, the back and forth jabs at each other are adorable and hilarious. Honestly I loved this book so much, it's every bit as good as book 1 and 2 in this series. This is one you don't want to miss out on, I have all 3 and love them so much I could and will re-read them.
November 26, 2021
Not a Standalone and no world building
I give kudos for the author's dialogue writing, however there is too much of it (One and half star removed) that got distracting from following the plot and making sense of some character relationships. It was my mistake jumping into a third book. I also removed a star, because there was no world building, it is a fantasy romance so there should be at least some explanation on the magical structure, government (Unseelie vs Seelie), lands, mages. I also found the prophecies in verse annoying (personal opinion). I advise that a reader should start at the beginning of the series because I think that will help with perspective and plot.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I give kudos for the author's dialogue writing, however there is too much of it (One and half star removed) that got distracting from following the plot and making sense of some character relationships. It was my mistake jumping into a third book. I also removed a star, because there was no world building, it is a fantasy romance so there should be at least some explanation on the magical structure, government (Unseelie vs Seelie), lands, mages. I also found the prophecies in verse annoying (personal opinion). I advise that a reader should start at the beginning of the series because I think that will help with perspective and plot.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 26, 2021
Riven and Merrin's Story . . .
The characters really make this story exciting because they are not weak and helpless. The Silver King of the Unseelie Court, Riven Èadra na Duinn, is quite intelligent and powerful. Merrin Fionbharr, the halfling Seelie Princess of Air, has a strength that the reader can see right away. They are destined to be together so that their love can end the Black Blood Curse and their kingdoms can be united.
Although drawn to each other, they cannot trust each other, so both fight their attraction to the other. The descriptions of the environment are well done to make it easy for the reader to visualize the setting. And the action is engaging and draws the reader into the story. You won’t want to miss this one!
The characters really make this story exciting because they are not weak and helpless. The Silver King of the Unseelie Court, Riven Èadra na Duinn, is quite intelligent and powerful. Merrin Fionbharr, the halfling Seelie Princess of Air, has a strength that the reader can see right away. They are destined to be together so that their love can end the Black Blood Curse and their kingdoms can be united.
Although drawn to each other, they cannot trust each other, so both fight their attraction to the other. The descriptions of the environment are well done to make it easy for the reader to visualize the setting. And the action is engaging and draws the reader into the story. You won’t want to miss this one!
February 19, 2022
I loved this story of an Unseelie King and a halfling Seelie princess. It's part fated mates, part enemies to lovers, and all slow-burn, romance. The characters are strong and detailed, although they still have their weaknesses and foibles. It seemed like it took Riven far too long to accept that together they were stronger and only together would they have a chance to beat the curse, but the wait was certainly worth it. I would have liked to see more of them living HEA, but that is a minor quibble. I loved the book, and - oh wow - definitely that beautiful cover. Wouldn't I like HIM to be MY book boyfriend!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 17, 2024
I was a little disappointed with this 3rd book of the series 😔 It wasn’t as good as the first 2 and for me, it’s a bit too repetitive with the whole King needing his fated mate to end the curse. It just seemed like the same storyline being told in a slightly different way 😬
It fell a little flat for me compared to the other 2 books and I probably won’t go on to read the 4th book now as I feel like it will just be along the same kinds of lines.
I do recommend reading the first 2 though. They were great reads! 😄
It fell a little flat for me compared to the other 2 books and I probably won’t go on to read the 4th book now as I feel like it will just be along the same kinds of lines.
I do recommend reading the first 2 though. They were great reads! 😄
November 7, 2024
Good
This one took me a bit to finish, mostly because halfway through it was a bit boring but then it picked up again.
Merrin always follows her heart while the king continues to follow the druids way....and man does it make for some interestingly backwards way of thinking.
Their "nightmares" come to pass and still the king can't see past his stupidity, smh. The last 2 chapters are great and I wish there was more of that.
Now to Wynter's story
This one took me a bit to finish, mostly because halfway through it was a bit boring but then it picked up again.
Merrin always follows her heart while the king continues to follow the druids way....and man does it make for some interestingly backwards way of thinking.
Their "nightmares" come to pass and still the king can't see past his stupidity, smh. The last 2 chapters are great and I wish there was more of that.
Now to Wynter's story
February 28, 2025
I loved, loved, LOVED this book about Merri and Riven. Riven might have been a good king, but very foolish abt love, and the prophecy he knew about. On a “chance meeting” the 2 meet each other, and their thoughts and lives become entertwined (annoying for both of them at first). I will also say, the writing has become better (not that it was bad before. I throughly enjoyed this story, and want to see what happens to Wynter now. I need to know.
Read
September 27, 2022DNF 34%, it’s not bad but it’s been over a month and I just can’t get past the middle - I did read it as if it’s a standalone and I’m getting the feeling it isn’t, but with the fantasy world & real world mix I don’t think it’s for me. I really wanted to give it a go but it just didn’t quite hit what I need rn.
April 23, 2023
1st reading: Thoroughly enjoyed it, although the back and forth between Merri and Riven was starting to get old by the time it was finally resolved. It was good to see Kian finally get his comeuppance.
While the next book is the prequel, undoubtedly there will be another book about Wyn and Summer... plus we have to get Draírdon taken care of, because he's still lurking in the Kingdom of Merits.
While the next book is the prequel, undoubtedly there will be another book about Wyn and Summer... plus we have to get Draírdon taken care of, because he's still lurking in the Kingdom of Merits.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 24, 2021
This entire series is just exquisite. The characters are larger than life and a lot of care has gone into keeping everything consistent with the first two books. Due to Juno's immersive writing style, I forgot multiple times that I was just reading words on a page. Highly recommend this author.
December 3, 2021
A soaring saga
I am thrilled with this story… even better than I had hoped… having read the others in the series I am invested in this royal tale. Thank you Juno… you’re a stellar story weaver.
I am thrilled with this story… even better than I had hoped… having read the others in the series I am invested in this royal tale. Thank you Juno… you’re a stellar story weaver.
December 27, 2021
Excellent!
Merri and Riven's story indeed lasted the test of time, to unite two fae kingdoms. I enjoyed how their shared vision contained an outcome, to end a curse that was contrived by evil elemental mage.
Merri and Riven's story indeed lasted the test of time, to unite two fae kingdoms. I enjoyed how their shared vision contained an outcome, to end a curse that was contrived by evil elemental mage.
January 2, 2022
If your thirst for faerie romance cannot be quenched, I think you will be quite satisfied. Easily my favorite in the series. This one had characters that were built up over the course of previous books and this book had a great payoff.
October 6, 2023
Not My Favorite
Eh. As much as I was looking forward to this one, it wasn't my favorite. I still have a soft spot for Ever and Lara.
I do appreciate the restrained sex scenes though.
Eh. As much as I was looking forward to this one, it wasn't my favorite. I still have a soft spot for Ever and Lara.
I do appreciate the restrained sex scenes though.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews