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Breaking of Godslost #1
Queen's Descent
“Lost, bullied, scared. And breaker of Empires.”
The greatest Empire known to Godslost has been strong for six hundred years, outliving great men, gods and magic. But with age and size comes decay. The rot is deep in this one.
And who is charged with healing this wound? Enter Delfin, the sole surviving daughter of the Emperor. Left without a family and estranged from a father who leans on her from afar for political gain, Delfin is a sheep in a field of wolves. And the assassin is closing in too.
But what she lacks in courtly talents, she more than makes up for with an insatiable thirst for the truth. And when small victories flourish into unquestionable competence, she takes the dangerous step of defying her father and peering into the only truth she’s ever truly wanted. Why was her family killed?
But at the end of that thread is a rug, and under that rug is an Empire. The price of the truth is the illusion that sustains it all. Can she really crack it?
The greatest Empire known to Godslost has been strong for six hundred years, outliving great men, gods and magic. But with age and size comes decay. The rot is deep in this one.
And who is charged with healing this wound? Enter Delfin, the sole surviving daughter of the Emperor. Left without a family and estranged from a father who leans on her from afar for political gain, Delfin is a sheep in a field of wolves. And the assassin is closing in too.
But what she lacks in courtly talents, she more than makes up for with an insatiable thirst for the truth. And when small victories flourish into unquestionable competence, she takes the dangerous step of defying her father and peering into the only truth she’s ever truly wanted. Why was her family killed?
But at the end of that thread is a rug, and under that rug is an Empire. The price of the truth is the illusion that sustains it all. Can she really crack it?
- GenresFantasyYoung Adult
325 pages, Paperback
Published November 1, 2022
15 people want to read
About the author
James Hockley
12 books27 followersHey there - so this is where I introduce myself. Umm... [stands in corner with eyes to the floor].
Well, that's what the introvert in me says, but I'm sure we can do better than that, can't we?
First up, there's a picture of me right up there, which is a good start. And yes, I’m the one at the back – where the arrow is pointed. The cut-off mop of blond hair at the front is my son, who always seems to make it into my photos these days. It seemed rude not to include him...
But a photo isn’t really getting to know someone, is it? So, that’s why I thought I’d lay my whole life in front of you in this handy breakdown:
1. Sleeping [33.3% of my life]
2. Working [23.8% of my life]
3. Tidying up after the kids [20.5%]
4. Having fun with the kids [7.1%]
5. Running (to escape from the kids) [3%]
6. Watching anything but kids' TV [8%]
7. Writing [4%]
As you can see, there’s only a little slither of time for writing – right up there at the top. Not that I’m complaining or anything, but hopefully that explains why it has taken 17 years (yup, that’s seventeen) to get these stories down onto digital paper. Hopefully it’ll get quicker with practice…
In the meantime, if you fancy finding out more (or indeed saying hello), then please do. These are the best ways of getting in touch:
Website: jhockley.com
Email: jh@jhockley.com
It may alarm you to notice that there isn’t a link to a Facebook page at this juncture. Sorry about that. As you will see from the infographic, there isn’t any time put aside for social media, and so the Facebook page I did once setup became a desolate waste-ground that wasn’t helpful to anyone. So it got binned. Maybe one day it will get revived, but in the meantime come and visit me at the website or ping me an email – it’d be great to hear from you.
Well, that's what the introvert in me says, but I'm sure we can do better than that, can't we?
First up, there's a picture of me right up there, which is a good start. And yes, I’m the one at the back – where the arrow is pointed. The cut-off mop of blond hair at the front is my son, who always seems to make it into my photos these days. It seemed rude not to include him...
But a photo isn’t really getting to know someone, is it? So, that’s why I thought I’d lay my whole life in front of you in this handy breakdown:
1. Sleeping [33.3% of my life]
2. Working [23.8% of my life]
3. Tidying up after the kids [20.5%]
4. Having fun with the kids [7.1%]
5. Running (to escape from the kids) [3%]
6. Watching anything but kids' TV [8%]
7. Writing [4%]
As you can see, there’s only a little slither of time for writing – right up there at the top. Not that I’m complaining or anything, but hopefully that explains why it has taken 17 years (yup, that’s seventeen) to get these stories down onto digital paper. Hopefully it’ll get quicker with practice…
In the meantime, if you fancy finding out more (or indeed saying hello), then please do. These are the best ways of getting in touch:
Website: jhockley.com
Email: jh@jhockley.com
It may alarm you to notice that there isn’t a link to a Facebook page at this juncture. Sorry about that. As you will see from the infographic, there isn’t any time put aside for social media, and so the Facebook page I did once setup became a desolate waste-ground that wasn’t helpful to anyone. So it got binned. Maybe one day it will get revived, but in the meantime come and visit me at the website or ping me an email – it’d be great to hear from you.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
January 18, 2023
Ahhh! This book was so fun:)
I don’t know why people are complaining that it’s a a bit flawed grammar and word-choice wise when it says right smack-dab at the start of the book that it’s in its beta.
Personally, I think that the author is really charismatic and it shows in his writing. It’s entertaining in a way that he can bend it to be serious when in need. I really enjoyed the main character, and I love the whole plotline of growing into her power and being the strong woman role.
The language was simple and easy to read, much easier than other fantasies I’ve read where I’m flipping back pages every four seconds lol.
I liked it!!
I don’t know why people are complaining that it’s a a bit flawed grammar and word-choice wise when it says right smack-dab at the start of the book that it’s in its beta.
Personally, I think that the author is really charismatic and it shows in his writing. It’s entertaining in a way that he can bend it to be serious when in need. I really enjoyed the main character, and I love the whole plotline of growing into her power and being the strong woman role.
The language was simple and easy to read, much easier than other fantasies I’ve read where I’m flipping back pages every four seconds lol.
I liked it!!
December 16, 2022
“A traitor always keeps their value closest.”
.
.
This story follows Delfin as she tries to cure the empire of the “rot” while simultaneously trying to figure out who murdered her mother and siblings years ago. She must figure who the empire’s traitor is while also navigating through who she can trust before the timeline she’s given runs out.
.
.
I enjoyed the idea of this story and the different characters. The idea of having finders, clue masters, and the warden were all interesting. I appreciated that women were in positions of power and were instrumental from both the protagonist and antagonist viewpoints. I also appreciate the work the author put in as it can’t be easy to write a novel, and there were some very memorable quotes mixed in. One of my favorites was: “Knowledge is wonderful, but sadly, power must always trump knowledge. It is the way of things.”
.
.
However, the plot and world building I felt lacked in development. I wanted more details, description, and backstories. Since the author is planning sequels to this book, I’m hoping some of the extra information I wanted will start to pop up. Additionally, the big reveals were fairly predictable for the most part. Beyond that, the book needed another round of edits to fix grammatical issues.
*I received a copy through NetGalley for review*
.
.
This story follows Delfin as she tries to cure the empire of the “rot” while simultaneously trying to figure out who murdered her mother and siblings years ago. She must figure who the empire’s traitor is while also navigating through who she can trust before the timeline she’s given runs out.
.
.
I enjoyed the idea of this story and the different characters. The idea of having finders, clue masters, and the warden were all interesting. I appreciated that women were in positions of power and were instrumental from both the protagonist and antagonist viewpoints. I also appreciate the work the author put in as it can’t be easy to write a novel, and there were some very memorable quotes mixed in. One of my favorites was: “Knowledge is wonderful, but sadly, power must always trump knowledge. It is the way of things.”
.
.
However, the plot and world building I felt lacked in development. I wanted more details, description, and backstories. Since the author is planning sequels to this book, I’m hoping some of the extra information I wanted will start to pop up. Additionally, the big reveals were fairly predictable for the most part. Beyond that, the book needed another round of edits to fix grammatical issues.
*I received a copy through NetGalley for review*
February 4, 2023
4 stars
This is my first time reading a high fantasy book when it comes to the Godlost series book 1 by James Hockley. Trying to summarise things in a review where spoilers aren't allowed. But I will try to say a lot of good things about this book. Not because I got book mail, but because there are actually many good points put forward in this book.
Summary:-
The story begins with the description of a princess who's trying to win the hearts of people. People who are used to treachery and debauchery at the hands of the Imperial dynasty of Maegwyn. Things unfold in the usual trials by assassination attempts plot but take a rather different turn from the middle of the story. The intricacies of a royal family and its subtle twists and turns through politics and diplomacies are something that is beyond my comprehension, to be honest.
The result is - I have found this book a somewhat middle-grade to digest, yet quite palatable. Many veteran reviewers might write great reviews about books that are not so difficult to understand, but in my humble opinion, I found it quite hard to write a part-by-part explanation of a fantasy book.
I have always written informal reviews about books, so I'm finding it hard to explain this in words. But I am trying my best.
I would recommend this book to a reader who has read at least a certain number of high-fantasy books before and this has a taste of royal dynasty build-up so buckle up if you haven't already.
Thanks for reading this review.
This is my first time reading a high fantasy book when it comes to the Godlost series book 1 by James Hockley. Trying to summarise things in a review where spoilers aren't allowed. But I will try to say a lot of good things about this book. Not because I got book mail, but because there are actually many good points put forward in this book.
Summary:-
The story begins with the description of a princess who's trying to win the hearts of people. People who are used to treachery and debauchery at the hands of the Imperial dynasty of Maegwyn. Things unfold in the usual trials by assassination attempts plot but take a rather different turn from the middle of the story. The intricacies of a royal family and its subtle twists and turns through politics and diplomacies are something that is beyond my comprehension, to be honest.
The result is - I have found this book a somewhat middle-grade to digest, yet quite palatable. Many veteran reviewers might write great reviews about books that are not so difficult to understand, but in my humble opinion, I found it quite hard to write a part-by-part explanation of a fantasy book.
I have always written informal reviews about books, so I'm finding it hard to explain this in words. But I am trying my best.
I would recommend this book to a reader who has read at least a certain number of high-fantasy books before and this has a taste of royal dynasty build-up so buckle up if you haven't already.
Thanks for reading this review.
February 16, 2023
Queen's Descent is the first book in a new fantasy series, centered on the character of Delfin, the daughter of the Emperor, who feels like a total failure.
The character of Delfin is a relevant and well built character, far from perfect and facing her own challenges as she navigates her journey in the world. She has a few good friends who also show signs of being developed into good characters, but a lot of the characters and events in the novel feel flat and undeveloped. There is a lack of detail development that is really needed in an immersive fantasy series, yet this is only the beginning, so there is still room for improvement. There is a lot of potential in this story, one I hope will be developed in future books.
The character of Delfin is a relevant and well built character, far from perfect and facing her own challenges as she navigates her journey in the world. She has a few good friends who also show signs of being developed into good characters, but a lot of the characters and events in the novel feel flat and undeveloped. There is a lack of detail development that is really needed in an immersive fantasy series, yet this is only the beginning, so there is still room for improvement. There is a lot of potential in this story, one I hope will be developed in future books.
January 26, 2023
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This was a fun read. As a young child, Delfin witnessed the murder of her mother (The Empress) and siblings. She has then grown up never seeing her father, and believing she would be the "rot" and marked as a failure. But to her surprise, her father announces her as the Warden of All and she's to rule alongside him. In her new role, she learns about her mother's plans and learns who she can and cannot trust. She must clean out the real rot in the empire and learn who the real traitors are.
This was a fun read. As a young child, Delfin witnessed the murder of her mother (The Empress) and siblings. She has then grown up never seeing her father, and believing she would be the "rot" and marked as a failure. But to her surprise, her father announces her as the Warden of All and she's to rule alongside him. In her new role, she learns about her mother's plans and learns who she can and cannot trust. She must clean out the real rot in the empire and learn who the real traitors are.
January 21, 2023
Thank you to Book tasters and James Hockley for the advance copy!
After having a little break from fantasy (a good year) it was nice to get back into it with Queen's Descent. It ticks all the fantasy boxes for me. The book does transport you elsewhere, and of course has some really great names. The world is not fully fleshed out to my liking, so would love to see how this evolves in later books. Some may say it needs development, I'm saying there is room for growth and expansion. For a beta book it has some wording issues, but the story is solid.
Look forward to seeing more of your work!
After having a little break from fantasy (a good year) it was nice to get back into it with Queen's Descent. It ticks all the fantasy boxes for me. The book does transport you elsewhere, and of course has some really great names. The world is not fully fleshed out to my liking, so would love to see how this evolves in later books. Some may say it needs development, I'm saying there is room for growth and expansion. For a beta book it has some wording issues, but the story is solid.
Look forward to seeing more of your work!
January 9, 2023
This story follows Delfin as she faces her fate: will she become Warden of All and govern her father's empire or will she become the 'rot' and mark a mark on her family line and forever be known as a failure. If she becomes Warden she must try to cure the empire of its “rot” whilst also figure out the real murderer behind her families death. The empire holds more traitors than she thought and she must learn to navigate her new life and position, find out who she can trust, save herself and the empire before time runs out.
This is the first book in the start of a series and I think it was a good interesting start with intriguing characters and introduction to a new world. However it was a slow read in parts and not all of the world building was detailed enough for me, in parts I felt I wanted more backstory in order to fill in slight gaps and add a bit more depth to the empire, Delfin and her relationship with her family.
But I do believe this will be delved into more in the next instalment(s) and this is a good start.
This is the first book in the start of a series and I think it was a good interesting start with intriguing characters and introduction to a new world. However it was a slow read in parts and not all of the world building was detailed enough for me, in parts I felt I wanted more backstory in order to fill in slight gaps and add a bit more depth to the empire, Delfin and her relationship with her family.
But I do believe this will be delved into more in the next instalment(s) and this is a good start.
January 27, 2023
I received a free copy via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I found this Fantasy started slowly but then dragged me in and I just could not put it down.
The main characters were well developed and you just could not dislike the Heroine for all her flaws.
The story definitely has a feel of the Game of Thrones, but was not as dark.
Thoroughly enjoyable.
I found this Fantasy started slowly but then dragged me in and I just could not put it down.
The main characters were well developed and you just could not dislike the Heroine for all her flaws.
The story definitely has a feel of the Game of Thrones, but was not as dark.
Thoroughly enjoyable.
December 7, 2022
This is a very good beggining of the story for this series of books. It’s very easy to read, a little YA, but it was very enjoyable, it keep me hooked, i read it in one sitting. I really liked the heroine Delfin, she was a very conpelling character, there were very funny moments that made me smile and a few emotional moments that gave more depth to the story, i recomend this book to anyone looking for and adventurous fantasy book!
January 15, 2023
Every now and then I get a taste for fantasy. Thus, this book. I absolutely loved it in the beginning. I enjoyed the main heroine Delfin and her coming of age. However, it all turned weird and pear shape as the story unfolded.
The ending felt like hitting a wall on full speed. Delfin was just about to do something earth-shattering and then...
Also, I am not sure if it's fantasy trope but I felt like an outsider reading this book, even though it is the first book in the series. Sometimes, it felt like characters are talking about things/places/people/events readers suppse to know and to have witnessed before... This was really confusing.
The ending felt like hitting a wall on full speed. Delfin was just about to do something earth-shattering and then...
Also, I am not sure if it's fantasy trope but I felt like an outsider reading this book, even though it is the first book in the series. Sometimes, it felt like characters are talking about things/places/people/events readers suppse to know and to have witnessed before... This was really confusing.
December 2, 2022
Don’t start this book late at night unless you’re prepared to read into the early hours of the morning. I promise you, you won’t want to put it down. Compelling reading.
I’ve loved Queen’s Descent. Loved every twist and turn. Loved the intrigue, the drama, the hidden secretes and the secrete rooms. Delfin is a complex heroine, flawed, fallible and ever so endearing. She never disappoints.
There are real moments of humour in the book, balanced against deeper emotional depths. I can’t wait to find out what happens next!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I’ve loved Queen’s Descent. Loved every twist and turn. Loved the intrigue, the drama, the hidden secretes and the secrete rooms. Delfin is a complex heroine, flawed, fallible and ever so endearing. She never disappoints.
There are real moments of humour in the book, balanced against deeper emotional depths. I can’t wait to find out what happens next!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 22, 2022
I received a copy of this for free to review for Booktasters.
This was a story in the fantasy genre. It was a light, pleasant read, and I felt that the author created a world for the reader to escape into while reading. Some of the characters had quirks and eccentricities that I liked.
I think that teens and young adults would particularly like this - it reminded me in a nice way of the type of book that I might have enjoyed reading when I was younger.
Thank you to Booktasters and the author for a free copy to review.
This was a story in the fantasy genre. It was a light, pleasant read, and I felt that the author created a world for the reader to escape into while reading. Some of the characters had quirks and eccentricities that I liked.
I think that teens and young adults would particularly like this - it reminded me in a nice way of the type of book that I might have enjoyed reading when I was younger.
Thank you to Booktasters and the author for a free copy to review.
November 30, 2022
Queen's Descent is Book 1 in the Breaking of Godslost by James Hockley. The Emperor's daughter, Delfin, takes ladies lessons, but, not successfully. I thought there was a lot of complex layers in the characters and the story. Delfin had her mother killed along with her family, except her father, the Emperor. Delfin was sent on a quest to uncover the truth. But, is anyone really ready for the truth! I received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.
September 5, 2023
I might be slightly generous with a four, but I think the last 35% of the story really made up for the first big chunk. I understand that there needed a good amount of world and character build, but speeding things up just a bit would have been more my story. Again, the ending leads up for a great opportunity for future books in the series and I look forward to reading the remainder of Delfin's story.
It has been quite a while since a story really had me thinking I knew what would happen, only to be taken a completely different path twice. It was nice to have multiple characters be an enemy and then turn ally or atleast someone you didn't think you would side with... multiple times.
It has been quite a while since a story really had me thinking I knew what would happen, only to be taken a completely different path twice. It was nice to have multiple characters be an enemy and then turn ally or atleast someone you didn't think you would side with... multiple times.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 12, 2023
Let me start by saying this isn’t my usual genre of choice, but I was asked to read it as an ARC by Booktasters and I’ve been intrigued by fantasy for a while, so I thought this would be a good start…
I struggle with the story, the dialogue was seriously lacking, there was over description for some areas not enough description for others. I did like the string female theme throughout the story.
If your a fantasy reader, give it a read.
Personally, not for me
Thank you to Booktasters and the author for my advanced readers copy
I struggle with the story, the dialogue was seriously lacking, there was over description for some areas not enough description for others. I did like the string female theme throughout the story.
If your a fantasy reader, give it a read.
Personally, not for me
Thank you to Booktasters and the author for my advanced readers copy
December 14, 2022
Delfin is the only surviving child of the Emperor – her mother and family were assassinated one night, leaving her the sole survivor of the attack. The assassination attempts are beginning again, and she finds herself placed in an unexpected position power. She begins using her new role to uncover the truth of her family’s murders and finds that the trail of clues leads in a dangerous direction.
The premise of this read was quite interesting, but unfortunately, it severely lacked in execution. The worldbuilding was sparse and there were almost no relevant descriptions of anything included in the writing, which made the setting feel nonexistent and the book lack in any immersion. The plot was not executed well – there were several unrealistic coincidences that were used to move the plot forward but just felt like lazy writing.
Opposite to this, people around Delfin were obtuse for no good reason – if they’d just answered her questions occasionally or been more straightforward, it would have saved chapters of unnecessary struggles. They also kept pertinent information a secret until it came time for the “Big Reveal” near the end of the book, which was unrealistic and unsatisfying. I’m not going to go into more detail about the characters, other than that they weren’t written well at all.
On a technical note, this work doesn’t appear to have been proofread or edited. There were instances where incorrect words were used (one example was “conservationist” rather than “conversationalist”). The number of errors was astounding and greatly detracted from the readability of the work. The author also used odd phrases such as “her mouth was a tight package,” and random words were italicized and/or hyphenated for no apparent reason. The writing style was simplistic and repetitive, which made reading this work a chore. The dialogue was also stilted and awkward, which made the characters that much more unrelatable and unrealistic feeling.
This was not a well written book. It has potential but needs to undergo some major editing and reworking before I would consider recommending it. My thanks to BookSirens for allowing me to read and review this work.
The premise of this read was quite interesting, but unfortunately, it severely lacked in execution. The worldbuilding was sparse and there were almost no relevant descriptions of anything included in the writing, which made the setting feel nonexistent and the book lack in any immersion. The plot was not executed well – there were several unrealistic coincidences that were used to move the plot forward but just felt like lazy writing.
Opposite to this, people around Delfin were obtuse for no good reason – if they’d just answered her questions occasionally or been more straightforward, it would have saved chapters of unnecessary struggles. They also kept pertinent information a secret until it came time for the “Big Reveal” near the end of the book, which was unrealistic and unsatisfying. I’m not going to go into more detail about the characters, other than that they weren’t written well at all.
On a technical note, this work doesn’t appear to have been proofread or edited. There were instances where incorrect words were used (one example was “conservationist” rather than “conversationalist”). The number of errors was astounding and greatly detracted from the readability of the work. The author also used odd phrases such as “her mouth was a tight package,” and random words were italicized and/or hyphenated for no apparent reason. The writing style was simplistic and repetitive, which made reading this work a chore. The dialogue was also stilted and awkward, which made the characters that much more unrelatable and unrealistic feeling.
This was not a well written book. It has potential but needs to undergo some major editing and reworking before I would consider recommending it. My thanks to BookSirens for allowing me to read and review this work.
April 14, 2023
This book has so much potential. I do like its premise, though. There's oh-so-many ways one can take it. Hockley has done his best to shape what is an already chaotic world. One where greed, betrayal, and deception take the forefront at every turn.
This is a world that is merciless and unrelenting. It's shown time and again within all the actions every character takes. Although things start off quite slow, the action does pick up close to the halfway mark of the book itself. We get to see Delfin's struggle as she strives to assert herself amongst her peers and the nobles that surround her. All while trying to survive numerous attempts upon her life.
Although we're not shown much of the world outside of Delfin's own, Hockley does includes quite a few mentions of what's going on outside of the empire's doors. Life is a struggle, one a good many do everything possible to overcome. Not everyone lives a golden life, a certainty Delfin soon comes to realize.
Delfin certainly has a lot on her plate. Whether she'll find an end to her own means remains to be seen. I do so hope things pick up further within the next book in the series. Here's to hoping, right?
This is a world that is merciless and unrelenting. It's shown time and again within all the actions every character takes. Although things start off quite slow, the action does pick up close to the halfway mark of the book itself. We get to see Delfin's struggle as she strives to assert herself amongst her peers and the nobles that surround her. All while trying to survive numerous attempts upon her life.
Although we're not shown much of the world outside of Delfin's own, Hockley does includes quite a few mentions of what's going on outside of the empire's doors. Life is a struggle, one a good many do everything possible to overcome. Not everyone lives a golden life, a certainty Delfin soon comes to realize.
Delfin certainly has a lot on her plate. Whether she'll find an end to her own means remains to be seen. I do so hope things pick up further within the next book in the series. Here's to hoping, right?
July 21, 2023
3.5
A very easy and quick read!
Recommended for YA readers who like coming into power tropes, mysteries, betrayals, and navigation of court intricacies. Those that prefer little-to-no romance may also enjoy this book.
I'll start off with the things I did like: I loved all the characters. Each one was dimensional and expressed various sides of their personality (good and bad). The little hints of foreshadowing were well placed. I also--overall--found the story to be interesting and the concepts intriguing.
What I didn't like: Transitions between some scenes were abrupt and interactions between characters were either rushed, not intimate enough, or too few and far between to create friendship, comradery, love (and later the sense of betrayal/shock that I was hoping for). The climax and points of the story where things picked up just moved too quickly for my liking.
The story has a lot of potential and I'm hoping the following books dive more into world building, character relationships, and unanswered questions.
I received this title as an eARC in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to NetGalley and James Hockley for the opportunity to read this treasure!
A very easy and quick read!
Recommended for YA readers who like coming into power tropes, mysteries, betrayals, and navigation of court intricacies. Those that prefer little-to-no romance may also enjoy this book.
I'll start off with the things I did like: I loved all the characters. Each one was dimensional and expressed various sides of their personality (good and bad). The little hints of foreshadowing were well placed. I also--overall--found the story to be interesting and the concepts intriguing.
What I didn't like: Transitions between some scenes were abrupt and interactions between characters were either rushed, not intimate enough, or too few and far between to create friendship, comradery, love (and later the sense of betrayal/shock that I was hoping for). The climax and points of the story where things picked up just moved too quickly for my liking.
The story has a lot of potential and I'm hoping the following books dive more into world building, character relationships, and unanswered questions.
I received this title as an eARC in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to NetGalley and James Hockley for the opportunity to read this treasure!
January 31, 2023
I don’t think there’s a single dialogue tag (she said, etc.) in this entire book. It makes the narration (which is sometimes several pages long, without a break) confusing.
There are action beats, but sometimes it’s the person who’s not talking who is doing the action, adding further confusion.
Non-finished book
Overall, this (already published) book reads as if it’s in the beta version. There is potential, the story was interesting, but the writing needed serious professional feedback. Having beta readers, a development editor, and a line editor would help this out a lot. It needs help with syntax, clarity, concision, word choice, descriptions, scene building etc.
Descriptions
Not enough explanation or descriptions of places, history, or characters.
I’m curious how a simple teacher and other students could publicly harass a Princess and not get into trouble. Also, why don’t they like her? No explanation.
So much left unexplained.
DNF
There are action beats, but sometimes it’s the person who’s not talking who is doing the action, adding further confusion.
Non-finished book
Overall, this (already published) book reads as if it’s in the beta version. There is potential, the story was interesting, but the writing needed serious professional feedback. Having beta readers, a development editor, and a line editor would help this out a lot. It needs help with syntax, clarity, concision, word choice, descriptions, scene building etc.
Descriptions
Not enough explanation or descriptions of places, history, or characters.
I’m curious how a simple teacher and other students could publicly harass a Princess and not get into trouble. Also, why don’t they like her? No explanation.
So much left unexplained.
DNF
July 20, 2023
Ok so I had trouble with this book. I found it very predictable, I was right about who the "traitor" was and who was responsible for her family's death. But the very end did surprise me as I hadn't seen that coming. For that reason it has redeemed itself slightly.
The writing wasn't bad, neither was the story. I just think for me it was a bit too predictable. I am glad I stuck with it to the end but equally I don't feel any real inclination to read the sequel.
I had trouble reading and continuing to read this because of the predictability. After the "traitor" was revealed I only continued to read because I wanted see if I was correct in my guess of who was responsible for her family's death.
Thank you netgalley for the ARC of this book, I am sorry that this book wasn't for me but glad I persevered and didn't DNF it.
The writing wasn't bad, neither was the story. I just think for me it was a bit too predictable. I am glad I stuck with it to the end but equally I don't feel any real inclination to read the sequel.
I had trouble reading and continuing to read this because of the predictability. After the "traitor" was revealed I only continued to read because I wanted see if I was correct in my guess of who was responsible for her family's death.
Thank you netgalley for the ARC of this book, I am sorry that this book wasn't for me but glad I persevered and didn't DNF it.
March 20, 2023
This was an epic story of Delfin and her quest to find her families murderer while trying to solve who the traiter is for her father the Emperor. It is full of mixed emotions as Delfin has to make decisions that she feels she is not capable to do. She struggles to find answers that are just out of her reach. It is a story that will pull you in and make you want to find the answers for Delfin. This was a excellant book and I am looking forward to reading the next one. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 17, 2023
3.5*
I thought this was an enjoyable read. I did liked the pacing but I feel like the world building could've been done better. I did liked Lady N and Tan but I'm a little bit confused as to how the other characters like Callista was able to do mean things to Delfin and was able to get away with it. The ending was ok but how did the father got "settled" so quickly after all what happened? Regardless, this was still an enjoyable read; I just wish there was more world building
I thought this was an enjoyable read. I did liked the pacing but I feel like the world building could've been done better. I did liked Lady N and Tan but I'm a little bit confused as to how the other characters like Callista was able to do mean things to Delfin and was able to get away with it. The ending was ok but how did the father got "settled" so quickly after all what happened? Regardless, this was still an enjoyable read; I just wish there was more world building
August 1, 2023
The story immersed me almost immediately so I devoured it in one sitting. I loved how fast paced it was but at some points it may be too fast! Very young adult so if that is your speed give this a try! Great start to a series can not wait to see where the series goes! I loved getting into the mind of the "Warden of All"
April 17, 2023
I really enjoyed this book! It has all the magic I look for when I'm reading and I recommend everyone take a look. The characters come off the page and the plot keeps you engaged from start to finish. I could see everything as I read - strong descriptions for the win!
May 26, 2025
This was amazing
I couldn't stop reading it I recommend this book to any fantasy enthusiast. I can't wait to read the next one
I couldn't stop reading it I recommend this book to any fantasy enthusiast. I can't wait to read the next one
May 16, 2023
In this story, the first of a trilogy, a young princess gets the title of “Warden of All” after discovering a betrayal against the emperor. Now, with the power to find answers, she goes after the man that hurt her family years ago, but what she discovers may put her in more danger. It was so much fun, and I loved the adventure. I literally couldn’t stop reading until I finished it!
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