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Curse of the Cyren Queen #1
A Lair of Bones
A deadly contest. A vaulting ambition. How far will one cyren go to win?
Mighty cyrens have ruled the ancient lair of Saddoriel for centuries. A cavernous fortress, a subterranean labyrinth of tunnels and levels, powered by magic and music…
From the moment she was born, Roh, the daughter of an infamous criminal, has been despised by her own kind. Restricted to the Lower Sector and forced to work as a common bone cleaner, she has always believed she belongs above: where lies adventure… and power.
Opportunity arises in the form of the Queen’s Tournament, a treacherous set of trials that could see the victor crowned ruler of the entire lair. Up against the most cunning, dangerous cyrens in all the realms, does Roh stand a chance?
A Lair of Bones is the first gripping book in the dark fantasy quartet, Curse of the Cyren Queen.
Mighty cyrens have ruled the ancient lair of Saddoriel for centuries. A cavernous fortress, a subterranean labyrinth of tunnels and levels, powered by magic and music…
From the moment she was born, Roh, the daughter of an infamous criminal, has been despised by her own kind. Restricted to the Lower Sector and forced to work as a common bone cleaner, she has always believed she belongs above: where lies adventure… and power.
Opportunity arises in the form of the Queen’s Tournament, a treacherous set of trials that could see the victor crowned ruler of the entire lair. Up against the most cunning, dangerous cyrens in all the realms, does Roh stand a chance?
A Lair of Bones is the first gripping book in the dark fantasy quartet, Curse of the Cyren Queen.
474 pages, ebook
First published July 14, 2021
1802 people are currently reading
10547 people want to read
About the author
Helen Scheuerer
45 books6,142 followersHelen Scheuerer is the fantasy author of the bestselling series, The Oremere Chronicles, the Curse of the Cyren Queen quartet and The Legends of Thezmarr. Her work has been highly praised for its strong, flawed female characters and its action-packed plots.
Helen’s love of writing and books led her to pursue a creative writing degree and a Masters of Publishing. She has been a full-time author since 2018 and now lives amidst the mountains in New Zealand where she is constantly dreaming up new stories.
Helen’s love of writing and books led her to pursue a creative writing degree and a Masters of Publishing. She has been a full-time author since 2018 and now lives amidst the mountains in New Zealand where she is constantly dreaming up new stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 303 reviews
November 14, 2021
I can tell this is a book that is meant to compel you into getting the next book because you can't wait to see what happens in the next trial when in fact nothing will happen until the third book and you would have been strung along for two books that you cave in and read the third book because you just want closure even though the previous books have been crap.
Ok, so I've had many experiences of that. This book's premise is pretty good. Every couple of years people fight for a chance to be queen of the cyrens. It's finally time for our heroine to fight and she wants to be queen by all means, she employs trickery to be one of the contestant and somehow manages to be a finalist. Shocking. One issue though, the current queen sends her on yet another trial before she abdicates.
The trials were boring. The cyrens are very into music so much of the trials involve us learning about their music and I didn't care for it. The heroine wasn't that great either, I couldn't connect with her at all, at I knew was that she wanted to be queen so that her friends would finally wear fine dresses and not have to work in the bone sector anymore. She didn't really care for anyone else. I have read about even worse heroines and some of them were likeable, not much hope for this heroine.
The reason I don't intend to read the next book is that if the current queen can decide all of a sudden that she has to embark on a different trial to take the crown then why can't she do the same when she completes the next trial in the other book. I just don't have the energy to follow a journey for character I don't care for.
Ok, so I've had many experiences of that. This book's premise is pretty good. Every couple of years people fight for a chance to be queen of the cyrens. It's finally time for our heroine to fight and she wants to be queen by all means, she employs trickery to be one of the contestant and somehow manages to be a finalist. Shocking. One issue though, the current queen sends her on yet another trial before she abdicates.
The trials were boring. The cyrens are very into music so much of the trials involve us learning about their music and I didn't care for it. The heroine wasn't that great either, I couldn't connect with her at all, at I knew was that she wanted to be queen so that her friends would finally wear fine dresses and not have to work in the bone sector anymore. She didn't really care for anyone else. I have read about even worse heroines and some of them were likeable, not much hope for this heroine.
The reason I don't intend to read the next book is that if the current queen can decide all of a sudden that she has to embark on a different trial to take the crown then why can't she do the same when she completes the next trial in the other book. I just don't have the energy to follow a journey for character I don't care for.
June 23, 2021
This book is extraordinary, a beginning of a series that will surely be of high impact; I'm not even surprised that I've enjoyed it so much because I've already read the author in the past and I've loved it too, so I already had an idea that this book would be just as addictive as her previous books and I wasn't mistaken. I'm not the biggest fan of sirens as such, but in this book, this mythological creature has a very unique and interesting twist that hooked me a lot; I also liked The Tournament the book focuses on and how this factor is used. It's a story that plays a lot with the morals of this society, it has an exceptional world construction, and I adore the main character. I'm so happy to have enjoyed this book!
4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
You can find more of my reviews & fun content on my blog A Book. A Thought.
In this book, we meet Cyren, a powerful species that rules Saddoriel's ancient lair, a labyrinthine fortress powered by magic and music. Here we follow Roh, a young cyren, daughter of a known criminal who has been restricted to the lower zone to work cleaning bones. Still, Roh has always felt that she belongs on top, so when the opportunity to return shows up, she takes it: The Queen's Tournament, where she must beat the most powerful and dangerous Cyren. Still, Roh is willing to try, as the tournament winner will rule the entire lair.
This book has a dangerous, tense, and intense vibe all the time; I love reading high fantasy from an author who knows how to manage time and create unique and successful environments. I really love the experience and would like to re-read this book sometime before jumping into the sequel, as I think it has many details and situations that are wonderful to relive. Obviously, the action is the protagonist during most of the story. Due to The Tournament and other high-impact situations, this makes it a super dynamic and quick-to-read story. It obviously has its dark side, which we not only enjoy in the hands of this peculiar and unique world but also because of the personal story of the main character, which is quite hard.
The book also has a fairly political and social background that discusses the norms and morals within this species and the decisions that have been made in the past. We also see the main character going through a transformation process that's extremely intense and shocking, and I loved that.
The author's writing style is a pleasure to read; I adore her trilogy, The Oremere Chronicles; it's brilliant, I highly recommend it, and I found myself again with beautiful descriptions worthy of a movie, super descriptive, but in the best way. I also love how she handles tension and how her stories are written, which makes them super addictive to read. If you're going to commit to one of her books, you have to have time on your hands because you'll not want to stop reading. I love this author; I highly recommend her!
As for the characters, as I mentioned before, they're realistic within the mythological and fantastical of themselves, but they also have very marked personalities that make it easy to recognize them one another; this greatly facilitates the reading movement. I loved Roh, mostly because she's that kind of morally gray character that I usually enjoy, but also tormented and selfish, that kind of character that really has a huge evolution within the book. I'm glad to see that kind of progress just the beginning of her journey; this shows me that in the future, in the following books, it will be even more shocking what this character will be able to demonstrate; I'm very excited about her, very proud in some way too. You may not like her very well initially, but this is the intention since you achieve while reading to understand the reason for her decisions and personality. A fascinating character to explore that deserves recognition . Of course, the secondary characters are wonderful too, and I really don't have anything bad to say about them.
This is not only a story of redemption and revenge, but it's a story that has its elements of mystery as well and its great revelations, so without a doubt, it's worth reading it, since the description given to this world of fantasy full of action is only the surface.
What did I not like about this book? Well, you know that I'm demanding with my readings, but especially with this one because I knew that I would love the author's style, so I expected a lot. I have to say that although I end up enjoying it a lot, it cost me a little to enter the world at first; this is quite common in me because there's a lot of info. There are things that I didn't understand from the first moment that was confusing for me; even so, it ends up being all super clear, and I liked it a lot. Also, I have to confess that, in general, I would not read a book that focuses on mermaids kind of creatures because it's not usually my jam. I'm not too fond of tournaments in books either, which is a hugely unpopular opinion, I know, lol, but this only shows how incredible this book is cause I actually liked that aspect as well. After all, I made an exception because I adore the author, and everything flows perfectly and completely captivates me.
I recommend this book if you want to read a unique YA Fantasy with high-impact scenes and a lot of action, but also a book that gives a new twist to mythological beings and gives us wonderful characters and a supremely dark, captivating plot. It has many incredible twists too, and a lot of growth, the world's construction is brilliant. It's a great start to what I hope will be a series. I can't wait to read the following few books!
First Thoughts 06/06/21
I'm a little behind with my review for this one because I didn't get to finish it on time, but taking the time with this one was the right decision; I loved it & although it has aspects that I generally don't like in my books, the author has the talent to make them interesting, engaging and addictive. Amazing work
December 16, 2022
This book took time to pull me in. But my faith in the author was well placed. The twist and turns kept me interested in the story. It takes a minute to love the characters in the series but once you're in, you're all in. Thank you Helen Scheuerer for sharing your story 😊 ❤️
July 11, 2021
A Lair of Bones by Helen Scheuerer
5/5
This is one of the best action-fantasy books I have read this summer, no romance required. The magical and powerful cyrens live in the lair of Saddoriel, a secret labyrinth that lies just below the surface of the human realm.
The main character Rohesia is a cyren and the spawn of an infamous criminal. The offspring of cyren criminals are treated as filth and forced to works in the lower sectors of the lair. Roh believes she is meant for more and is granted that opportunity when “The Queen’s Tournament” is announced. This tournament is a chance for Roh to change her entire future but risk death in the process.
There were several aspects of this book that I liked. First, the cyrens were not your typical siren/mermaid-like creatures, although they do share some of the same elements (love of music and the sea). The way they create and find music is nothing like I’ve read before. The tournament and adventure in the book are intensely creative and at times vicious.
I recommend this book to anyone who loves darker fantasy, action, and creativity that keeps you turning page after page. I also believe that A Lair of Bones is so well written it reminds me of a mix of Throne of Glass and The Hunger Games. I cannot wait to read the next three books in the Curse of the Cyren Queen series!
5/5
This is one of the best action-fantasy books I have read this summer, no romance required. The magical and powerful cyrens live in the lair of Saddoriel, a secret labyrinth that lies just below the surface of the human realm.
The main character Rohesia is a cyren and the spawn of an infamous criminal. The offspring of cyren criminals are treated as filth and forced to works in the lower sectors of the lair. Roh believes she is meant for more and is granted that opportunity when “The Queen’s Tournament” is announced. This tournament is a chance for Roh to change her entire future but risk death in the process.
There were several aspects of this book that I liked. First, the cyrens were not your typical siren/mermaid-like creatures, although they do share some of the same elements (love of music and the sea). The way they create and find music is nothing like I’ve read before. The tournament and adventure in the book are intensely creative and at times vicious.
I recommend this book to anyone who loves darker fantasy, action, and creativity that keeps you turning page after page. I also believe that A Lair of Bones is so well written it reminds me of a mix of Throne of Glass and The Hunger Games. I cannot wait to read the next three books in the Curse of the Cyren Queen series!
February 3, 2022
When I first started reading this book, I thought, “Oh no, not another tournament/trial situation.” I’ve read several of those books recently. And it did take me a little bit to get drawn in, but the author did a great job at revitalizing this overused trope. The trial tasks themselves were unique and well-tailored to the setting and world. There were a few complications thrown in that really upped the tension of the entire situation.
The characters were well written with plenty of their own internal drama to add to the story. That being said, I didn't like the protagonist as much as I wanted to. She felt a little bland and her motivation for wanting to join the tournaments wasn't super compelling. There was also a decent amount of worldbuilding and lore woven throughout the work that added to the depth of the world and the story. The ending was unexpected, and while it was definitely a cliff-hanger, I’m excited to read the next work and see more of the world the author created.
The characters were well written with plenty of their own internal drama to add to the story. That being said, I didn't like the protagonist as much as I wanted to. She felt a little bland and her motivation for wanting to join the tournaments wasn't super compelling. There was also a decent amount of worldbuilding and lore woven throughout the work that added to the depth of the world and the story. The ending was unexpected, and while it was definitely a cliff-hanger, I’m excited to read the next work and see more of the world the author created.
April 21, 2023
Oh, hello? I've had the time of my life with this one, AND it broke my reading slump! So tasty and refreshing~
In a mysterious world that reveals itself in small, tantalizing pieces, Rohesia is a young cyren at the bottom of the lair's society. She works as a bone cleaner in the slums, too far down to hear Saddoriel's enchanting music. More than that, she's branded as the daughter of a notorious criminal. She and her friends have always dreamed of entering the Queen's Tournament, a chance to challenge the centuries-long rule of the cyren queen and take her place. The question becomes: what is Roh willing to do to win?
And the answer is: a lot, for a YA protagonist! Forget your softheaded and softhearted heroines whose kindness makes them stupid. Throw out the 'problematic' protagonist whose sarcasm is the only basis for their insistence that they're a bad person. Now I give you Roh: a young woman raised in a society where ruthlessness, strength, and cunning are valued. A young woman who fiercely loves the few people she holds close but aims for her goals just as fiercely, no matter who is in her way. She actually is smart, alert for threats and advantages, and practical. Roh gets things DONE. And I love her SO much.
The side characters have life, too. Harlyn and Orson could have been Roh's bland childhood friends, present just to prop her up with side conversations, but no. They clearly mean something to Roh. When they're not there, she misses them and wonders how they'd react. When they are, the narrative is fond and familiar. We even get to see them interact without her, and without it being ABOUT her. Every character Roh interacts with obviously has their own thing going on, an unknown motive or distraction, and it absolutely fills the plot with tension along the way.
I have to talk about the humans. As part of the tournament, each cyren is given a sort of human Tamagotchi, whom they have to keep alive and relatively healthy throughout the trials (despite their competitors' best efforts). Captured humans are divvied out, and Roh is made responsible for a young man. Understandably, this young man's main focus is something like, "I was kidnapped and put in a cage and this evil palace is made of human bones!!" to which Roh responds along the lines of, "Yes, we've all seen the bones, now stop embarrassing me in front of the nobles." Their dynamic evolves wonderfully, and I enjoyed every single point along the way. And the same is true of the worldbuilding their conversations spark; it was so interesting to see what Roh could, couldn't, or wouldn't answer about the state of Saddoriel and the relationship between cyrens and humans.
And there are so many unanswered questions, about the world, about Roh's parents, and about other characters' secrets. But I feel strongly that all that will be the realm of the sequels. The writing was so good, never forgetting a thread that could be woven back in later, that I trust the rest of this series to satisfy on all fronts.
In a mysterious world that reveals itself in small, tantalizing pieces, Rohesia is a young cyren at the bottom of the lair's society. She works as a bone cleaner in the slums, too far down to hear Saddoriel's enchanting music. More than that, she's branded as the daughter of a notorious criminal. She and her friends have always dreamed of entering the Queen's Tournament, a chance to challenge the centuries-long rule of the cyren queen and take her place. The question becomes: what is Roh willing to do to win?
And the answer is: a lot, for a YA protagonist! Forget your softheaded and softhearted heroines whose kindness makes them stupid. Throw out the 'problematic' protagonist whose sarcasm is the only basis for their insistence that they're a bad person. Now I give you Roh: a young woman raised in a society where ruthlessness, strength, and cunning are valued. A young woman who fiercely loves the few people she holds close but aims for her goals just as fiercely, no matter who is in her way. She actually is smart, alert for threats and advantages, and practical. Roh gets things DONE. And I love her SO much.
The side characters have life, too. Harlyn and Orson could have been Roh's bland childhood friends, present just to prop her up with side conversations, but no. They clearly mean something to Roh. When they're not there, she misses them and wonders how they'd react. When they are, the narrative is fond and familiar. We even get to see them interact without her, and without it being ABOUT her. Every character Roh interacts with obviously has their own thing going on, an unknown motive or distraction, and it absolutely fills the plot with tension along the way.
I have to talk about the humans. As part of the tournament, each cyren is given a sort of human Tamagotchi, whom they have to keep alive and relatively healthy throughout the trials (despite their competitors' best efforts). Captured humans are divvied out, and Roh is made responsible for a young man. Understandably, this young man's main focus is something like, "I was kidnapped and put in a cage and this evil palace is made of human bones!!" to which Roh responds along the lines of, "Yes, we've all seen the bones, now stop embarrassing me in front of the nobles." Their dynamic evolves wonderfully, and I enjoyed every single point along the way. And the same is true of the worldbuilding their conversations spark; it was so interesting to see what Roh could, couldn't, or wouldn't answer about the state of Saddoriel and the relationship between cyrens and humans.
And there are so many unanswered questions, about the world, about Roh's parents, and about other characters' secrets. But I feel strongly that all that will be the realm of the sequels. The writing was so good, never forgetting a thread that could be woven back in later, that I trust the rest of this series to satisfy on all fronts.
August 12, 2021
So don't go near caves, water, or anywhere there are tales of Cyrens. Wow this was quite an adventure! And I adore Fiona Hardingham, she always takes you on a wonderful adventure.
This world was hidden underground, Saddoriel the ancient lair of cyrens. Roh was born in a cell to the most notorious cyren. Roh has worn a gold diadem to show her lowly outcast status her whole life. So when her chance to prove herself appears she takes it.
Every 50-100 years they hold a Queens trial and the prize is the crown. Each sector picks their candidate to represent them, understanding the mortal dangers involved.
The trials they must complete with a human and must keep the human alive make the competition that much more interesting. As the lair is alive and can lure them to their death.
There are so many politics, strange cyren rules in so many tomes, backstabbing, high stakes, unlikely friendships, mystical creatures and cruelty.
I love books about trials, fantasy worlds, mermaids/cyrens, and enemies to friends.
Thank you helen scheuerer, BookSparks, and podiumaudio for the audiobook for my honest and voluntary review. I am excited to be on the #SRC2021 audiobook track!
This world was hidden underground, Saddoriel the ancient lair of cyrens. Roh was born in a cell to the most notorious cyren. Roh has worn a gold diadem to show her lowly outcast status her whole life. So when her chance to prove herself appears she takes it.
Every 50-100 years they hold a Queens trial and the prize is the crown. Each sector picks their candidate to represent them, understanding the mortal dangers involved.
The trials they must complete with a human and must keep the human alive make the competition that much more interesting. As the lair is alive and can lure them to their death.
There are so many politics, strange cyren rules in so many tomes, backstabbing, high stakes, unlikely friendships, mystical creatures and cruelty.
I love books about trials, fantasy worlds, mermaids/cyrens, and enemies to friends.
Thank you helen scheuerer, BookSparks, and podiumaudio for the audiobook for my honest and voluntary review. I am excited to be on the #SRC2021 audiobook track!
June 5, 2021
Wow.
This book is amazing! How beautiful is that cover too?!
Scheuerer has created a world unlike anything I've read before - she's put a unique spin on a mythological race and made them even better. I love how ruthless and cunning the cyren culture is - and how utterly human at the same time. I adored the underdog theme throughout, the twists and turns and intrigue. I liked the rich world-building and depth and dimensions of characters. The descriptive language Scheuerer wove through the pages was like a song all of its own, keeping me enthralled from first page to last.
I enjoyed the interaction and growth between our MC and others during the trials, and found myself (more than once) scowling at the pages when certain characters made an appearance. Scheuerer definitely makes you feel for her characters- whether good or bad - and I love that.
I can't wait to see what comes next in this world. I need more!
This book is amazing! How beautiful is that cover too?!
Scheuerer has created a world unlike anything I've read before - she's put a unique spin on a mythological race and made them even better. I love how ruthless and cunning the cyren culture is - and how utterly human at the same time. I adored the underdog theme throughout, the twists and turns and intrigue. I liked the rich world-building and depth and dimensions of characters. The descriptive language Scheuerer wove through the pages was like a song all of its own, keeping me enthralled from first page to last.
I enjoyed the interaction and growth between our MC and others during the trials, and found myself (more than once) scowling at the pages when certain characters made an appearance. Scheuerer definitely makes you feel for her characters- whether good or bad - and I love that.
I can't wait to see what comes next in this world. I need more!
January 17, 2025
Why is no one talking about this book? It may be a little… worldbuildy (okay fine, info dumpy) but it’s just SOO FRIGGING GOOD (I am writing this as I start the third book and I promise you it’s TOTALLY worth it) — I like to think of it as DETAILED and intricate, if anything. I came to this series after giving Legends of Thezmarr a go and holy CRAP… Helen Scheuerer might just be my new favourite fantasy author. This world in particular is fantastic, deep, beautiful, and dark. Now, this is a YA fantasy, but it’s definitely not a lower YA read, in terms of dark thenes or the writing. Helen is a master storyteller. Please, if you want a unique story about cyrens, this is the one I BEG you to read. Also, don’t even look at the dates read on this versus book 2 — the only reason why I didn’t devour this in a single day is because I’ve been sooooo unbelievably sick with Norovirus and I couldn’t focus my eyes or stay awake long enough to read as much as I wanted to. Also, fun fact, this series has a “box set” available on audible — so for a single credit you can get all FOUR books. You’re welcome. ☺️
January 1, 2025
A truly fantastic adventure with unexpected twists and turns. I adore Helen’s writing and this was no exception- she writes characters that capture the heart and imagination while building worlds that are beautiful. The pacing is consistent and the story strong. While this is different to Thezmarr- there is really no romance in this one- it is no less wonderful. I loved it.
July 28, 2025
Perfection 👌
July 17, 2021
I enjoyed this book greatly.
It was a breath of fresh air... or salt water..
The premise of the books is similar to Three Dark Crowns and the Hunger Games, and just as enjoyable.
The cover caught my attention first. Dark and beautiful.
It did seem to drone on for a bit, I found myself losing interest at times, having to force myself to continue. But I'm glad I did.
The journey from prison, to bone cleaner, to contestants, to queen was fraught with peril. Friendships are formed and broken.
The romance is kept to a minimum, focusing more on familial relationships and friendships.
The world building is fantastic, I'm transported to a place unlike any other I've read about it many years.
I look forward to continuing Roh's story and learning her mother's tale. I also look forward to reading more from this author.
A Lair of Bones is a must for anyone who enjoys dark fantasy/Mythology.
It was a breath of fresh air... or salt water..
The premise of the books is similar to Three Dark Crowns and the Hunger Games, and just as enjoyable.
The cover caught my attention first. Dark and beautiful.
It did seem to drone on for a bit, I found myself losing interest at times, having to force myself to continue. But I'm glad I did.
The journey from prison, to bone cleaner, to contestants, to queen was fraught with peril. Friendships are formed and broken.
The romance is kept to a minimum, focusing more on familial relationships and friendships.
The world building is fantastic, I'm transported to a place unlike any other I've read about it many years.
I look forward to continuing Roh's story and learning her mother's tale. I also look forward to reading more from this author.
A Lair of Bones is a must for anyone who enjoys dark fantasy/Mythology.
July 12, 2021
Thank you so much to Helen Scheurer for sending me a copy of A Lair of Bones, in exchange for an honest review!
Helen has woven the most fantastical, horrifying world in A Lair of Bones. With no love lost between the species, Cyren’s have been luring humans into their world to play music for them. But now that the Queen’s Tournament is upon them for the first time in decades, the human’s have been stolen for a different task.
Roh is a lowborn bone cleaner with a dream. Shunned by most others of her kind, due to her mother being in prison for the worst crime ever committed, she longs to access the Tomes that will grant her information about what really happened the day her mother was arrested and allow her to move on from her job as a bone cleaner, forever. When she finds out her victory will hinge on keeping a human, Odi, alive, the tournament seems even more impossible than before.
Through enchanted caves, nightmarish creatures and sabotage from every side, Roh and Odi are determined to complete the insurmountable tasks to win the tournaments. They have to. For Roh to become queen and Odi to gain his freedom.
The world building in A Lair of Bones was nothing short of magical. The Cyren’s here are a far cry from even the viciousness we associate with traditional Siren lore. These Cyren’s are not confined to the water and occupy an entire, cavern like realm, complete with sea forests and workshops.
I absolutely loved the characters, in all their flawed ways. Roh was thrown obstacle after obstacle, with little to no support, but through her desperation and terror, she didn’t back down, even when it meant betrayal and heartbreak. But, like she says, Never trust a Cyren 😏
Without giving away spoilers, there was a really obvious way a part of this story could have gone. The author did not go down that path and I was SO grateful 🙌 It made it all the more perfect for me!
The author has free copies of 3 prequel novella’s to this series on her website. You better believe I went and claimed them the second I finished this book! 😄
Helen has woven the most fantastical, horrifying world in A Lair of Bones. With no love lost between the species, Cyren’s have been luring humans into their world to play music for them. But now that the Queen’s Tournament is upon them for the first time in decades, the human’s have been stolen for a different task.
Roh is a lowborn bone cleaner with a dream. Shunned by most others of her kind, due to her mother being in prison for the worst crime ever committed, she longs to access the Tomes that will grant her information about what really happened the day her mother was arrested and allow her to move on from her job as a bone cleaner, forever. When she finds out her victory will hinge on keeping a human, Odi, alive, the tournament seems even more impossible than before.
Through enchanted caves, nightmarish creatures and sabotage from every side, Roh and Odi are determined to complete the insurmountable tasks to win the tournaments. They have to. For Roh to become queen and Odi to gain his freedom.
The world building in A Lair of Bones was nothing short of magical. The Cyren’s here are a far cry from even the viciousness we associate with traditional Siren lore. These Cyren’s are not confined to the water and occupy an entire, cavern like realm, complete with sea forests and workshops.
I absolutely loved the characters, in all their flawed ways. Roh was thrown obstacle after obstacle, with little to no support, but through her desperation and terror, she didn’t back down, even when it meant betrayal and heartbreak. But, like she says, Never trust a Cyren 😏
Without giving away spoilers, there was a really obvious way a part of this story could have gone. The author did not go down that path and I was SO grateful 🙌 It made it all the more perfect for me!
The author has free copies of 3 prequel novella’s to this series on her website. You better believe I went and claimed them the second I finished this book! 😄
August 22, 2021
Lair of Bones was such a spectacular action-packed dark fantasy!
I enjoyed reading this one a lot!
There were two reasons I picked this up for a read 1) That gorgeous cover🤩
2) and a tournament was promised. (i love them.)
And we did get a tournament where Rohesia, our main lead takes part to become the Crowned ruler of the entire Lair. She is from the lower sector and is forced to work as a bone cleaner but she has always believed she belonged above and deserves more. She is despised by her own kind for being the daughter of an infamous criminal. So, when the opportunity of the Queen's tournament comes, she takes it and fights against all the other trained dangerous cyrens to win this.
Now it's all spoilers from here on.
Firstly, for all my fellow lovers of romance in fantasy books, let me tell you there is no romance in this book. There were a few moments where it could have blossomed but I think the author decided to keep it platonic. And I don't mind that at all, not having romance in the plot made this all more refreshing.
The characters were interesting and their development, particularly, Roh's and Finn's was amazing. I liked Odi a lot too, he was clever for all his nervous and shy personality. The Queen and Cerys were portrayed as such enigmatic characters. I liked that but then who was the actual villain here? I mean apart from facing the discrimination of class sectors and the villians mentioned in their cyren history. The elders? Finn Harteal? The Queen? (what was she hiding? which side she is on?) Maybe that's what felt missing to me. But I'm optimistic as it is just the first book and there is more to come!
I loved Roh and Odi's friendship a lot. From the ending of this book, I guess we are going to get more of it including Finn and Yersa.
The tournament sequences were so well written, it was highly entertaining. I loved the spellbinding world of cyrens but I would like to know more about that.
I have high expectations from the sequel after this one, as there are a lot of loose ends and unanswered questions to be explained!
I would suggest The Lair of Bones for someone who likes high fantasies with intense action-packed sequences, strong world building and amazing character development!
I enjoyed reading this one a lot!
There were two reasons I picked this up for a read 1) That gorgeous cover🤩
2) and a tournament was promised. (i love them.)
And we did get a tournament where Rohesia, our main lead takes part to become the Crowned ruler of the entire Lair. She is from the lower sector and is forced to work as a bone cleaner but she has always believed she belonged above and deserves more. She is despised by her own kind for being the daughter of an infamous criminal. So, when the opportunity of the Queen's tournament comes, she takes it and fights against all the other trained dangerous cyrens to win this.
Now it's all spoilers from here on.
Firstly, for all my fellow lovers of romance in fantasy books, let me tell you there is no romance in this book. There were a few moments where it could have blossomed but I think the author decided to keep it platonic. And I don't mind that at all, not having romance in the plot made this all more refreshing.
The characters were interesting and their development, particularly, Roh's and Finn's was amazing. I liked Odi a lot too, he was clever for all his nervous and shy personality. The Queen and Cerys were portrayed as such enigmatic characters. I liked that but then who was the actual villain here? I mean apart from facing the discrimination of class sectors and the villians mentioned in their cyren history. The elders? Finn Harteal? The Queen? (what was she hiding? which side she is on?) Maybe that's what felt missing to me. But I'm optimistic as it is just the first book and there is more to come!
I loved Roh and Odi's friendship a lot. From the ending of this book, I guess we are going to get more of it including Finn and Yersa.
The tournament sequences were so well written, it was highly entertaining. I loved the spellbinding world of cyrens but I would like to know more about that.
I have high expectations from the sequel after this one, as there are a lot of loose ends and unanswered questions to be explained!
I would suggest The Lair of Bones for someone who likes high fantasies with intense action-packed sequences, strong world building and amazing character development!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 18, 2021
I was fortunate enough to get an ARC of this deliciously dark book, and let me tell you, it is a MUST READ!
It starts slow to set up the world and characters, but once it takes off, you can’t help but get sucked in.
Apologies in advance if this isn’t coherent—I stayed up until 2 AM to finish it, so I’m a bit bleary-eyed and sleep deprived.
#WorthIt
The main character, Roh, is a cyren bone cleaner and the daughter of their world’s most notorious criminal. Desperate to claw her way out of the lowest ranks of society, she enters the Queen’s Tournament, a deadly series of challenges that only happens once every fifty years. Almost certain death is an acceptable risk for the chance to win the coral crown and a magical omniscient book that will reveal the identity of her father and the truth of her mother’s crimes.
There’s a fantastic balance of action and exposition which allows us to get front-row seats to Roh’s metamorphosis from a selfish, cunning, ruthless cyren into someone a bit more... human.
The secondary characters were top-notch as well. I never quite knew who to trust and some of the plot twists blew me away.
And as a bonus for those who don’t like kissing books, there is zero romance (though there are potential hints for a future romance in future books #TeamOdi).
It starts slow to set up the world and characters, but once it takes off, you can’t help but get sucked in.
Apologies in advance if this isn’t coherent—I stayed up until 2 AM to finish it, so I’m a bit bleary-eyed and sleep deprived.
#WorthIt
The main character, Roh, is a cyren bone cleaner and the daughter of their world’s most notorious criminal. Desperate to claw her way out of the lowest ranks of society, she enters the Queen’s Tournament, a deadly series of challenges that only happens once every fifty years. Almost certain death is an acceptable risk for the chance to win the coral crown and a magical omniscient book that will reveal the identity of her father and the truth of her mother’s crimes.
There’s a fantastic balance of action and exposition which allows us to get front-row seats to Roh’s metamorphosis from a selfish, cunning, ruthless cyren into someone a bit more... human.
The secondary characters were top-notch as well. I never quite knew who to trust and some of the plot twists blew me away.
And as a bonus for those who don’t like kissing books, there is zero romance (though there are potential hints for a future romance in future books #TeamOdi).
July 24, 2021
writing just as phenomenal as the last series by this author but this book fell flat. could've made use of at least ten more chapters. the underground cyren world too intricate to be left at that. the characters let it down because of the lack of depth. everything was too superficial. i wanted more, by the end AND during it.
the trials should've been stretched more. maybe two discussed here and to make it more climatic, take the third trial to book 2? because the last trial was over in seconds and i was confused. too fast. there is so much left to explore. i hope the other parts are longer and more descriptive. this left too much to be desired regarding every single aspect. cerys, delja, odi, the water warlocks... btw I've read all four prequel novellas so it was nice to relate deelie, cerys and marlow. curious to know how they came to be where they are now centuries later.
the dystopian-like plot and storyline had me taken back from the jump. from then on, it became too predictable. the second i predicted something it would happen on the next page. 'her human is a boy same age as her right?' yes. 'the twins are his stepbrothers right?' they were. 'she's going to take finn with her right?' she did. these are just a few. i can't believe people were talking about the plot twists? what plot twists? it's not even like the typical ya tropes were used, they weren't. the plot was too similar.
roh's sudden change in attitude the minute she was appointed a human was a surprise. she was sweet and kind with everyone but once odi appeared, she suddenly became mean for NO reason. it was jarring. i know they were trying to make roh a 'different' heroine but it didn't help in sympathising with her.
i know exactly how the romance is going to go and i don't like it. the author said enemies to lovers on her ig story so I'm assuming roh will get close to finn on this journey and she'll push odi away. something will happen like finn will betray her or leave her or d*e then roh will suddenly open her eyes and see odi. shit like 'he was always there' smh odi deserves so much better. honestly, he was the best character imo.
the trials should've been stretched more. maybe two discussed here and to make it more climatic, take the third trial to book 2? because the last trial was over in seconds and i was confused. too fast. there is so much left to explore. i hope the other parts are longer and more descriptive. this left too much to be desired regarding every single aspect. cerys, delja, odi, the water warlocks... btw I've read all four prequel novellas so it was nice to relate deelie, cerys and marlow. curious to know how they came to be where they are now centuries later.
the dystopian-like plot and storyline had me taken back from the jump. from then on, it became too predictable. the second i predicted something it would happen on the next page. 'her human is a boy same age as her right?' yes. 'the twins are his stepbrothers right?' they were. 'she's going to take finn with her right?' she did. these are just a few. i can't believe people were talking about the plot twists? what plot twists? it's not even like the typical ya tropes were used, they weren't. the plot was too similar.
roh's sudden change in attitude the minute she was appointed a human was a surprise. she was sweet and kind with everyone but once odi appeared, she suddenly became mean for NO reason. it was jarring. i know they were trying to make roh a 'different' heroine but it didn't help in sympathising with her.
i know exactly how the romance is going to go and i don't like it. the author said enemies to lovers on her ig story so I'm assuming roh will get close to finn on this journey and she'll push odi away. something will happen like finn will betray her or leave her or d*e then roh will suddenly open her eyes and see odi. shit like 'he was always there' smh odi deserves so much better. honestly, he was the best character imo.
February 25, 2022
I received an e-copy of a Lair of Bones in exchange for my honest review. That being said, i wish i had the physical copy, as it looks stunning!
Beautiful cover art aside, I really enjoyed this book and the story of the Roh (Rohesia). In the mythical realm that lies just below the human realm surface live the Cyrens who are these human like sea creatures that just love music. Helen does an amazing job building up these characters and realms. In the Cyren world, when you are born from a criminal, you are considered the lowest of society, which is what Roh was due to her mothers crimes. So when she gets the chance to become more than a bone cleaner by getting a place in the queens tournament (which only happens every 50 years), she takes the chance.
This story is woven with amazing plot twists and I just loved reading about the trials. Although a bit Hunger Game'ish to me, the darker aspect made me wanting more. As I already mentioned, the characters and world building is what I enjoyed the most. I loved that Roh also had this conniving side to her and how they could all go from ambitious music loving creatures to being cunning and selfish. Feel like I may need to read the second book in the Curse of the Cyren Queen as the end left off with a bit of a cliffhanger.
Beautiful cover art aside, I really enjoyed this book and the story of the Roh (Rohesia). In the mythical realm that lies just below the human realm surface live the Cyrens who are these human like sea creatures that just love music. Helen does an amazing job building up these characters and realms. In the Cyren world, when you are born from a criminal, you are considered the lowest of society, which is what Roh was due to her mothers crimes. So when she gets the chance to become more than a bone cleaner by getting a place in the queens tournament (which only happens every 50 years), she takes the chance.
This story is woven with amazing plot twists and I just loved reading about the trials. Although a bit Hunger Game'ish to me, the darker aspect made me wanting more. As I already mentioned, the characters and world building is what I enjoyed the most. I loved that Roh also had this conniving side to her and how they could all go from ambitious music loving creatures to being cunning and selfish. Feel like I may need to read the second book in the Curse of the Cyren Queen as the end left off with a bit of a cliffhanger.
September 10, 2021
3,5
Esta historia no fue lo que esperaba aunque no, eso no hace que no la disfrutara sólo que me imagine algo distinto. A Lair of Bones nos presenta la historia de Roh, una cyren del sector bajo de Saddoriel que además es la hija de una de las mas grandes criminales. Ella se dedica a limpiar huesos, los huesos con los que se construye la grandiosa ciudad en la que vive. Las cosas comienzan a cambiar cuando da inicio el Torneo de la reina, un torneo del cual el ganador sera el próximo monarca de Saddoriel. De cada sector alguien puede participar y cuando Roh sea la elegida para la tarea, deberá enfrentarse a sus mas grandes temores. El problema aqui fue que, me esperaba una historia más oscura y mas... ¿compleja? Lo que pense que sería un torneo muy difícil realmente se torna bastante mínimo como para que el premio sea ser reina/rey de todo el lugar. Fuera de esa queja todo lo demás me encantó: los personajes, la ambientación y la narración. Sin duda es el inicio de una saga muy prometedora.
Esta historia no fue lo que esperaba aunque no, eso no hace que no la disfrutara sólo que me imagine algo distinto. A Lair of Bones nos presenta la historia de Roh, una cyren del sector bajo de Saddoriel que además es la hija de una de las mas grandes criminales. Ella se dedica a limpiar huesos, los huesos con los que se construye la grandiosa ciudad en la que vive. Las cosas comienzan a cambiar cuando da inicio el Torneo de la reina, un torneo del cual el ganador sera el próximo monarca de Saddoriel. De cada sector alguien puede participar y cuando Roh sea la elegida para la tarea, deberá enfrentarse a sus mas grandes temores. El problema aqui fue que, me esperaba una historia más oscura y mas... ¿compleja? Lo que pense que sería un torneo muy difícil realmente se torna bastante mínimo como para que el premio sea ser reina/rey de todo el lugar. Fuera de esa queja todo lo demás me encantó: los personajes, la ambientación y la narración. Sin duda es el inicio de una saga muy prometedora.
February 28, 2022
Rohesia of the Bone Cleaners is a cyren, the daughter of an infamous criminal, and has been scorned because of that for all her life. But when she gets the chance to participate in the Queen’s Tournament, Roh dares to believe that she can become something more. Before that happens, however, Roh must pass a series of trials that determine her worthiness.
Okay, so I absolutely loved this book! It had such an interesting premise, and the writing was solid and well written. The action scenes were superb, and I really loved all the political elements of this book as well. I also really enjoyed Roh, the main character. She’s ruthless at times, but I think she has a good heart as well. I loved watching her grow over the course of the novel. With “A Lair of Bones,” Scheuerer creates an enchanting new world that will leave you longing to know what happens next!!!
Okay, so I absolutely loved this book! It had such an interesting premise, and the writing was solid and well written. The action scenes were superb, and I really loved all the political elements of this book as well. I also really enjoyed Roh, the main character. She’s ruthless at times, but I think she has a good heart as well. I loved watching her grow over the course of the novel. With “A Lair of Bones,” Scheuerer creates an enchanting new world that will leave you longing to know what happens next!!!
June 10, 2021
I'm going to preface by saying I have always been fascinated with mythology, and have a pretty well-versed repertoire of all the creatures involved; actively pursuing the stories and tales woven and scouring pages for any hint of lore.
A Lair of Bones was an unexpected, delightful surprise for me, first because I haven't seen siren lore for a very, very long time, and second because there was a new spin on this *cyren* lore that intrigued me from the first page.
The world-building and character development was outstanding; the flow of the story unfolding was absolutely incredible! Rohesia is a character that I'm wholly invested in, and am dying to see where the rest of this tale goes.
A Lair of Bones was an unexpected, delightful surprise for me, first because I haven't seen siren lore for a very, very long time, and second because there was a new spin on this *cyren* lore that intrigued me from the first page.
The world-building and character development was outstanding; the flow of the story unfolding was absolutely incredible! Rohesia is a character that I'm wholly invested in, and am dying to see where the rest of this tale goes.
November 24, 2023
Helen Scheuerer has not disappointed me yet! Ordered the rest of the series only halfway though....
November 17, 2022
DNF @ 65%. Just couldn't connect and wasn't interested enough to push through.
November 1, 2021
This book. What can I say. This is literally a new favourite novel which I’ll be singing from the rooftops about. You know how, with our favourite books, they transport you to another world and each word, each scene, you can see being played out in your mind? This book did that for me. Cunning characters, a thrilling back story, a whole new world to discover, and an epic contest this, the first book in the Curse of the Cyren Queen series is sure to have something for every fantasy reader.
For Roh, life as a bone cleaner is one of monotony. Life as the child of an infamous murderer, well that’s even worse. Outcast by her society she jumps at the chance to enter the notorious Queens Tournament, a life changing opportunity where the victor becomes Queen of Cyrens. You can literally feel Roh’s desire and need to change her circumstance, to rise above her station.
The author weaves such a vivid world that plays like a film in the readers mind. I was literally reading as in a trance and devoured more than two hundred pages in a single sitting.
Fantasy readers will be enraptured by this novel. A creature shrouded in mystery, the Cyren, comes to light. We don’t often see stories with Cyrens featured and this is an opportunity to discover something completely different. A new and richly developed dark and cunning world.
Will you be able to resist the Cyren’s song and stay away from this stunning novel?
For Roh, life as a bone cleaner is one of monotony. Life as the child of an infamous murderer, well that’s even worse. Outcast by her society she jumps at the chance to enter the notorious Queens Tournament, a life changing opportunity where the victor becomes Queen of Cyrens. You can literally feel Roh’s desire and need to change her circumstance, to rise above her station.
The author weaves such a vivid world that plays like a film in the readers mind. I was literally reading as in a trance and devoured more than two hundred pages in a single sitting.
Fantasy readers will be enraptured by this novel. A creature shrouded in mystery, the Cyren, comes to light. We don’t often see stories with Cyrens featured and this is an opportunity to discover something completely different. A new and richly developed dark and cunning world.
Will you be able to resist the Cyren’s song and stay away from this stunning novel?
July 13, 2021
The world building alone in this book was phenomenal. The characters were great, giving us people we can visualise and really feel. Roh was great, I loved her whole persona. The trials she faces not only to become queen but as a person were inspirational. There's action in parts and lots of intrigue that keeps you wanting more. Any fantasy lover will adore this tale that incorporates sirens mythology with a whole new world. That ending had me wishing for book two asap. The story moves at a pace where you get the detail as well as the plot. It was a fantastic read! Highly recommend. I wish there would've been a romantic element however I do hope maybe we will see something of that nature in the future books. That being said, it doesn't take anything from the story that there isn't a love interest. You'll still be drawn into the book and love the whole world that you can see while reading. Phenomenal!
December 2, 2021
I love this book, I love the author, I love the way she writes everything. The world building, the friendships, the relationships... UGH... I AM IN LOVE. Everything just felt so meticulously thought out. The Queen in this book reminded me of the Queen from Lost in Random (video game) for some reason. Cerys' relationship with her mother is something that I'm excited to learn more about. I also like how Cerys There was no romance either! It was kinda hinted at, but never explored and it never progressed. Sirens, a tournament for the crown, and a main. character who loves building stuff? What more could you ask for?!
July 18, 2021
So I finished this book a couple of hours ago and since then I've been trying to work out what to say as wow just doesn't seem to cut it.
First off I know you shouldn't judge a book by its cover, but how beautiful is this one?! If I had seen this as a physical copy in a shop I would have been instantly drawn to it.
The world building and descriptions are absolutely amazing, I truly felt like I was in the book. I'd actually liken her ability to that of Tolkien (his Hobbit hole description has stuck with me since I first read it in an English class aged 10)
Helen takes the Sirens we know and weaves her magic creating a whole world of wonder, mystery and myths to bring us her Cyrens.
I was hooked right from the start, in fact Helens words were like a Cyren song calling to me. Where I only meant to read for 30 mins in bed one night I was so caught up in her world and story that I suddenly realised 2 hours had gone by.
I think fans of Percy Jackson and Harry Potter will thoroughly enjoy the adventure and action in this book. I truly can;t wait for book 2 to come out and will be recommending this series to all my bookworm friends.
Thank you Helen for gifting me an Arc copy in exchange of my honest review, this is the first book of yours I have read but it will definitely not be the last.
First off I know you shouldn't judge a book by its cover, but how beautiful is this one?! If I had seen this as a physical copy in a shop I would have been instantly drawn to it.
The world building and descriptions are absolutely amazing, I truly felt like I was in the book. I'd actually liken her ability to that of Tolkien (his Hobbit hole description has stuck with me since I first read it in an English class aged 10)
Helen takes the Sirens we know and weaves her magic creating a whole world of wonder, mystery and myths to bring us her Cyrens.
I was hooked right from the start, in fact Helens words were like a Cyren song calling to me. Where I only meant to read for 30 mins in bed one night I was so caught up in her world and story that I suddenly realised 2 hours had gone by.
I think fans of Percy Jackson and Harry Potter will thoroughly enjoy the adventure and action in this book. I truly can;t wait for book 2 to come out and will be recommending this series to all my bookworm friends.
Thank you Helen for gifting me an Arc copy in exchange of my honest review, this is the first book of yours I have read but it will definitely not be the last.
July 27, 2021
I'm doubtful that any respectable lover of dark fantasy could resist this deliciously dark cover—and I'm no exception. I picked this up despite not clicking well with most books aimed at a YA audience, but I am super glad that I did.
A Lair of Bones is set in the land of the cyrens: humanoid sea-creatures who act nothing but. They're cunning, ambitious, and selfish, and don't make a habit of trusting others of their own kind. Rohesia (Roh for short) is no different. When an opportunity to better her life as a bone cleaner comes along, she goes to whatever lengths necessary to ensure her place in the Queen's Tournament, held every fifty years...never mind the fact that there hasn't been a winner for over five hundred.
Scheuerer's prose was gorgeous, and sucked me in right away. It started with a bang, but admittedly felt a little slow in the middle before picking back up around 2/3 of the way through: once I hit that point, though, I was hooked. I adored that Roh wasn't a 'good' character. She struggled with her moral compass throughout the narrative, and proved multiple times that she's committed to changing her ways. All the side characters really shone, too, and it stood out to me that it wasn't hard to remember who was who, since each had their own distinct personalities.
A Lair of Bones had the added bonus of heavily involving music given how much cyrens value it, and as a musician myself, I thoroughly enjoyed how much care and attention to detail was given to describing it. I'm still tempted to set my own tune to the lyrics in the prologue, especially since dark lullabies are my speciality.
5 stars, and I would happily read more of this series.
A Lair of Bones is set in the land of the cyrens: humanoid sea-creatures who act nothing but. They're cunning, ambitious, and selfish, and don't make a habit of trusting others of their own kind. Rohesia (Roh for short) is no different. When an opportunity to better her life as a bone cleaner comes along, she goes to whatever lengths necessary to ensure her place in the Queen's Tournament, held every fifty years...never mind the fact that there hasn't been a winner for over five hundred.
Scheuerer's prose was gorgeous, and sucked me in right away. It started with a bang, but admittedly felt a little slow in the middle before picking back up around 2/3 of the way through: once I hit that point, though, I was hooked. I adored that Roh wasn't a 'good' character. She struggled with her moral compass throughout the narrative, and proved multiple times that she's committed to changing her ways. All the side characters really shone, too, and it stood out to me that it wasn't hard to remember who was who, since each had their own distinct personalities.
A Lair of Bones had the added bonus of heavily involving music given how much cyrens value it, and as a musician myself, I thoroughly enjoyed how much care and attention to detail was given to describing it. I'm still tempted to set my own tune to the lyrics in the prologue, especially since dark lullabies are my speciality.
5 stars, and I would happily read more of this series.
January 27, 2022
First off I would like to thank the author for providing me with an e-copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
"Far below the darkest waters, in a cell made of bones, a creature was born."
Wow. I started this book thinking it would be interesting but not much else. But boy was I wrong! Instead I got a Hunger games meets Siren lore dark fantasy with a kick - butt main character!
"Mighty is the Law, sacred is the ledger."
A Lair of Bones follows a cyren named Roh who is the daughter of a notorious criminal and is forced to work as a bone cleaner. For the past 600 years a cyren queen has ruled but every 50 years anyone who wishes to can try to take the crown for themselves by competing in The Queen's Tournament. In order to emerge victorious 3 bloodthirsty trials must be completed, and Roh is determined to win.
"For what? Glory? Fame? To be a part of history?"
"To be queen"
I think my favorite part was that instead of the main character (Roh) losing her more brutal edge during her character arc, Roh actually keeps hers! Sure, she grows a small conscience along the way, but her entire personality doesn't change which is what usually happens at the end of a morally questionable MC's arc. I really liked how the character stayed true to herself throughout the whole book.
I like to think that I am fairly good at predicting where a book is going to go but I was at a complete loss with this one. This book kept me on the edge of my seat! The betrayals, the magic, the complexity of the world were just all so exquisitely done. From the first sentence I was hooked and I can not wait for the next book. Especially after that ending...
"Far below the darkest waters, in a cell made of bones, a creature was born."
Wow. I started this book thinking it would be interesting but not much else. But boy was I wrong! Instead I got a Hunger games meets Siren lore dark fantasy with a kick - butt main character!
"Mighty is the Law, sacred is the ledger."
A Lair of Bones follows a cyren named Roh who is the daughter of a notorious criminal and is forced to work as a bone cleaner. For the past 600 years a cyren queen has ruled but every 50 years anyone who wishes to can try to take the crown for themselves by competing in The Queen's Tournament. In order to emerge victorious 3 bloodthirsty trials must be completed, and Roh is determined to win.
"For what? Glory? Fame? To be a part of history?"
"To be queen"
I think my favorite part was that instead of the main character (Roh) losing her more brutal edge during her character arc, Roh actually keeps hers! Sure, she grows a small conscience along the way, but her entire personality doesn't change which is what usually happens at the end of a morally questionable MC's arc. I really liked how the character stayed true to herself throughout the whole book.
I like to think that I am fairly good at predicting where a book is going to go but I was at a complete loss with this one. This book kept me on the edge of my seat! The betrayals, the magic, the complexity of the world were just all so exquisitely done. From the first sentence I was hooked and I can not wait for the next book. Especially after that ending...
July 25, 2021
I think this book has an awesome premise. I loved the cyren theme throughout and thought the concept was pretty cool. What started out as strong kind of fell flat for me the longer I went with this book. I slowly started losing interest in the characters, and the plot just felt slow. I wanted to feel, to connect to Roh but I didn't. I REALLY wanted to love Odi but even his dialogue and characterization didn't go as deep as I wanted.
I wanted a little more romance and chemistry between the two characters ESPECIALLY if she was setting this up as a future romance. This felt totally friend zoned. And if she puts Roh with another certain character...that just doesn't even seem believable at this point in time. BUT this is a quartet so it has a lot of room for places to go! I will have to see if I decide to continue these books.
3.5 stars. Was looking for wow and got meh. BUT i've seen some raving review so it could be just me.
I wanted a little more romance and chemistry between the two characters ESPECIALLY if she was setting this up as a future romance. This felt totally friend zoned. And if she puts Roh with another certain character...that just doesn't even seem believable at this point in time. BUT this is a quartet so it has a lot of room for places to go! I will have to see if I decide to continue these books.
3.5 stars. Was looking for wow and got meh. BUT i've seen some raving review so it could be just me.
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