What do you think?
Rate this book
The Wicked Kingdom #1
The Curse of the Crow: A Soulmate Romance
SHE DIDN’T WANT TO FALL FOR HIM. SHE HAD NO CHOICE.
Nava Forrest stumbled upon her soulmate when she was young. A brief meeting with a hooded stranger forever bound her to a man she wanted nothing to do with. Her parents were also soulmates marrying despite her father not being a magic-wielder, their forbidden love forcing their family into hiding.
Now that they are gone, her life raising her younger brother and selling potions to wary townsfolk has been quiet… and magic-free. When the Society of Crows finds Nava, intent on enslaving her, it forces her to flee to the forest, searching for the one person she was told can protect her.
Arkimedes is certainly not what she expected, and her attraction to him is new and unnerving. As the chemistry between them grows, so does her power. With the Society closing in, it forces the two to create unexpected alliances, and work in their disagreements. One rejecting magic and the other a powerful, enigmatic fae, who has secrets of his own and is determined to change her mind.
You will love The Curse of the Crow if you enjoy:
Denied Soulmates
Slow burn romance
Mutual pinning
Steamy
Adventure packed, with some magical war themes.
Strong, relatable, female MC
Brooding male MC
AUTHOR NOTES:
Reader advisory: This book contains mature themes and adult language.
The Curse of the Crow is the first book in a trilogy, based on the Wicked Kingdom verse.
This book ends in a cliffhanger.
Nava Forrest stumbled upon her soulmate when she was young. A brief meeting with a hooded stranger forever bound her to a man she wanted nothing to do with. Her parents were also soulmates marrying despite her father not being a magic-wielder, their forbidden love forcing their family into hiding.
Now that they are gone, her life raising her younger brother and selling potions to wary townsfolk has been quiet… and magic-free. When the Society of Crows finds Nava, intent on enslaving her, it forces her to flee to the forest, searching for the one person she was told can protect her.
Arkimedes is certainly not what she expected, and her attraction to him is new and unnerving. As the chemistry between them grows, so does her power. With the Society closing in, it forces the two to create unexpected alliances, and work in their disagreements. One rejecting magic and the other a powerful, enigmatic fae, who has secrets of his own and is determined to change her mind.
You will love The Curse of the Crow if you enjoy:
Denied Soulmates
Slow burn romance
Mutual pinning
Steamy
Adventure packed, with some magical war themes.
Strong, relatable, female MC
Brooding male MC
AUTHOR NOTES:
Reader advisory: This book contains mature themes and adult language.
The Curse of the Crow is the first book in a trilogy, based on the Wicked Kingdom verse.
This book ends in a cliffhanger.
368 pages, Hardcover
First published July 20, 2021
664 people are currently reading
7437 people want to read
About the author
Abbey Fox
6 books194 followersAbbey Fox loves to write action packed Fantasy Romance stories, with ass-kicking heroines, swoon-worthy heroes and a healthy dose of spice. Sometimes, when she should be crafting new worlds and putting her characters' lives in danger, she is tending to her indoor jungle and painting colorful watercolor pieces instead.
To connect with Abbey, you can follow her in her Instagram account @abbeyfoxauthor or subscribe to her newsletter for all the latest info.
To connect with Abbey, you can follow her in her Instagram account @abbeyfoxauthor or subscribe to her newsletter for all the latest info.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 191 reviews
August 16, 2021
I enjoyed the story, but I did find a few things a bit irritating. I found the writing a bit inconsistent and stilted at times, some of the sentences barely made sense.
Want to read
January 20, 2023I am in love with the cover 😫
January 23, 2025
dnf
i was liking this book… until i wasn’t. idk it just didn’t hold my attention.
♬⋆.˚ now playing - exile - taylor swift (feat. bon iver)
✦ “i think i’ve seen this film before / so i’m leaving out the side door” ✦
~~~~~~~~~~
✧₊⁺ preread - saw good reviews for this and was like “why not??” <33
i was liking this book… until i wasn’t. idk it just didn’t hold my attention.
♬⋆.˚ now playing - exile - taylor swift (feat. bon iver)
✦ “i think i’ve seen this film before / so i’m leaving out the side door” ✦
~~~~~~~~~~
July 22, 2021
Title: Curse of the Crow
Author: Abbey Fox
Publication date: August 10th, 2021
Summary: SHE DIDN’T WANT TO FALL FOR HIM. SHE HAD NO CHOICE.
Nava Darrion stumbled upon her soulmate when she was young. A brief meeting with a hooded stranger forever bound her to a man she wanted nothing to do with. Her parents were also soulmates, marrying despite her father not being a magic-wielder, their forbidden love forcing their family into hiding.
Now parentless, Nava’s life raising her younger brother and selling potions to wary townsfolk has been quiet…and magic-free. But when the Society of Crows finds Nava, intent on enslaving her, she flees to the forest, searching for the one person she was told can protect her.
Arkimedes is certainly not what she expected, and her attraction to him is new and unnerving. As the chemistry between them grows, so does her power. With the Society closing in, the two create unexpected alliances, and work in their disagreements. One rejecting magic and the other a powerful, enigmatic fae who has secrets of his own and is determined to change her mind. Nava must decide if she is to follow her destiny or listen to her heart…or maybe discover they are the same.
Review: I absolutely love the start of this book. I normally don't like flashback scenes but this one is the perfect one to open up the book. It hooks you from the very start. Learning where the name of the book came in was rather unexpected but I loved every minute of it. I read this book so fast, I simply couldn't put it down. I cannot wait to see where the series goes. This first book was absolutely addicting. I loved being transported into this world of magic and non-magic a like learning about new creatures I've never heard of before. Simply watching it all unfold in front of my eyes. Is book two here yet!?!?!? Please absolutely read this book!
Author: Abbey Fox
Publication date: August 10th, 2021
Summary: SHE DIDN’T WANT TO FALL FOR HIM. SHE HAD NO CHOICE.
Nava Darrion stumbled upon her soulmate when she was young. A brief meeting with a hooded stranger forever bound her to a man she wanted nothing to do with. Her parents were also soulmates, marrying despite her father not being a magic-wielder, their forbidden love forcing their family into hiding.
Now parentless, Nava’s life raising her younger brother and selling potions to wary townsfolk has been quiet…and magic-free. But when the Society of Crows finds Nava, intent on enslaving her, she flees to the forest, searching for the one person she was told can protect her.
Arkimedes is certainly not what she expected, and her attraction to him is new and unnerving. As the chemistry between them grows, so does her power. With the Society closing in, the two create unexpected alliances, and work in their disagreements. One rejecting magic and the other a powerful, enigmatic fae who has secrets of his own and is determined to change her mind. Nava must decide if she is to follow her destiny or listen to her heart…or maybe discover they are the same.
Review: I absolutely love the start of this book. I normally don't like flashback scenes but this one is the perfect one to open up the book. It hooks you from the very start. Learning where the name of the book came in was rather unexpected but I loved every minute of it. I read this book so fast, I simply couldn't put it down. I cannot wait to see where the series goes. This first book was absolutely addicting. I loved being transported into this world of magic and non-magic a like learning about new creatures I've never heard of before. Simply watching it all unfold in front of my eyes. Is book two here yet!?!?!? Please absolutely read this book!
August 23, 2021
This book is super fast paced and I really enjoyed! The Curse and the Crow is full of magic, finding yourself, and romance! It was such a great start to this series and I loved it. When I read the synopsis, I just knew I had to read this book and it did not disappoint!
Nava was such an amazing main character! She was interesting and had passions even before she met the guy and discovered her magic. I loved seeing her develop throughout the story, accepting herself and seeing that she was amazing just the way she was. Seeing her gain confidence was so amazing!
The romance was so wonderful and I can’t wait to see more of them! They were so sweet and I loved reading about how they slowly grew closer. They always accepted each other for who they were and were just so great together!
I felt like at some points the book could have been paced better. Like, it could have been slowed down or sped up in a couple of scenes.
Overall, I loved The Curse and the Crow and definitely recommend! I can not wait for book two and need it now!
Nava was such an amazing main character! She was interesting and had passions even before she met the guy and discovered her magic. I loved seeing her develop throughout the story, accepting herself and seeing that she was amazing just the way she was. Seeing her gain confidence was so amazing!
The romance was so wonderful and I can’t wait to see more of them! They were so sweet and I loved reading about how they slowly grew closer. They always accepted each other for who they were and were just so great together!
I felt like at some points the book could have been paced better. Like, it could have been slowed down or sped up in a couple of scenes.
Overall, I loved The Curse and the Crow and definitely recommend! I can not wait for book two and need it now!
July 12, 2025
4⭐️
I'm a sucker for a soulmate/fated mates story. This one had great back story and character development. The chemistry was very good, and the magic aspect added more depth. Not a lot spice, but not needed. My only issue is, it could have been shorter and still great.
I'm a sucker for a soulmate/fated mates story. This one had great back story and character development. The chemistry was very good, and the magic aspect added more depth. Not a lot spice, but not needed. My only issue is, it could have been shorter and still great.
February 11, 2024
4.5🌟!
I haven’t read a book this well and beautifully written in a while. It had that lyrical quality that you can’t help but read continuously.
Before I forget, the cover, the maps and artworks are all so beautiful.
Nava is a heroine who is strong and loyal to her loved ones but also has many issues to overcome. She is so angry at her late mother for her mysterious ways and secrecy regarding Nava and her ability. So you can guess how much I enjoyed Nava’s growth in the book.
Another quality that I loved about her was, she isn’t shy to admit her wrong ways and rectify it. That was very admirable.
Powerful, beautiful, mysterious and silent Arkimedes was a complete mystery and I wasn’t sure if he was the Hero in the book. I liked him but was very much fed up halfway through when he still kept on pushing Nava away. Especially as I had doubts about who he was to Nava.
I think because of that, I didn’t get that intense chemistry vibe from them. And that’s the reason I didn’t give it full stars.
I also didn’t like that both of them didn’t want the soulmate bond for lesser reasons and his isn’t clear but Nava didn’t wait for her soulmate even after meeting him.
Secondary characters were diverse and plenty. I loved a couple of them very much. Looking forward to read the next book.
-trilogy.
-soulmate.
-different magic system, adventures, quest for answers.
-fascinating world.
-KU, recommended.
I haven’t read a book this well and beautifully written in a while. It had that lyrical quality that you can’t help but read continuously.
Before I forget, the cover, the maps and artworks are all so beautiful.
Nava is a heroine who is strong and loyal to her loved ones but also has many issues to overcome. She is so angry at her late mother for her mysterious ways and secrecy regarding Nava and her ability. So you can guess how much I enjoyed Nava’s growth in the book.
Another quality that I loved about her was, she isn’t shy to admit her wrong ways and rectify it. That was very admirable.
Powerful, beautiful, mysterious and silent Arkimedes was a complete mystery and I wasn’t sure if he was the Hero in the book. I liked him but was very much fed up halfway through when he still kept on pushing Nava away. Especially as I had doubts about who he was to Nava.
I think because of that, I didn’t get that intense chemistry vibe from them. And that’s the reason I didn’t give it full stars.
I also didn’t like that both of them didn’t want the soulmate bond for lesser reasons and his isn’t clear but Nava didn’t wait for her soulmate even after meeting him.
Secondary characters were diverse and plenty. I loved a couple of them very much. Looking forward to read the next book.
-trilogy.
-soulmate.
-different magic system, adventures, quest for answers.
-fascinating world.
-KU, recommended.
April 18, 2023
EDIT: I DID NOT REALIZE THIS IS A TRILOGY AND THAT THE THIRD BOOK IS NOT OUT. I HATE MYSELF!!!
The premise was pretty much perfect and I could totally see the vision the author meant for us to see. Having said that, I just felt like it was too fast paced. This might not only be because of the writing but probably because of the long ass fantasy books I am used to reading.
Even though I feel like a lot of the plots were rushed and thrown on top of each other I genuinely enjoyed reading this book. Nava’s character grew leaps and bounds and even though the crux of the story was the soul mate bond I felt like the magic and fae part was what was extremely well thought out. I hope I get to read more about the triple bond between the bee keeper Nava and Arkimedes. Speaking of Arkimedes, I hate that name lmfao. It is such a mouthful and makes me not want to connect with him at all.
The chemistry between the two was rushed and forced which while not unpleasant, it didn’t really make me squeal and throw my feet in the air ykwim?
Like I mentioned earlier I wish the author had made this book longer(A complain I never have) since they do have some stunning ideas. If they’d only expanded a bit further on literally ALL of the plots it would’ve been an easy 5 star from me!
The premise was pretty much perfect and I could totally see the vision the author meant for us to see. Having said that, I just felt like it was too fast paced. This might not only be because of the writing but probably because of the long ass fantasy books I am used to reading.
Even though I feel like a lot of the plots were rushed and thrown on top of each other I genuinely enjoyed reading this book. Nava’s character grew leaps and bounds and even though the crux of the story was the soul mate bond I felt like the magic and fae part was what was extremely well thought out. I hope I get to read more about the triple bond between the bee keeper Nava and Arkimedes. Speaking of Arkimedes, I hate that name lmfao. It is such a mouthful and makes me not want to connect with him at all.
The chemistry between the two was rushed and forced which while not unpleasant, it didn’t really make me squeal and throw my feet in the air ykwim?
Like I mentioned earlier I wish the author had made this book longer(A complain I never have) since they do have some stunning ideas. If they’d only expanded a bit further on literally ALL of the plots it would’ve been an easy 5 star from me!
June 26, 2021
i loved it.
there is a lot going on in action. sometimes a little to much. but other times i loved it. Nava is a great charakter. i even could she her through my eyes in the book. but it was also a little long threated in some places of the book. that i though okay come on get to the point right now.
but i got lately that thoughts tho. so this book is not the only book where i thought this. but i deffently would read it again when book 2 is coming out
i recommand it to people
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
there is a lot going on in action. sometimes a little to much. but other times i loved it. Nava is a great charakter. i even could she her through my eyes in the book. but it was also a little long threated in some places of the book. that i though okay come on get to the point right now.
but i got lately that thoughts tho. so this book is not the only book where i thought this. but i deffently would read it again when book 2 is coming out
i recommand it to people
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 23, 2021
I really wanted to enjoy this book. The concept is great and by the end it was actually pretty great but let me tell you, it was hard to get through. There were so many errors and strangely worded sentences to contend with that it really broke up the pacing and took me right out of the fantasy of it all. I really wish this had been edited more thoroughly, then it would have easily been 4 stars. That being said I still want to read the next in the series.
July 27, 2021
I received an arc of this book and I'm leaving this review voluntarily.
The premise of having a soul mate out there is what appealed to me. Also I liked the fact there was a brooding swoon worthy male hahha but then with time he became more open and a perfect, loving boyfriend (ngl I find saying boyfriend weird). Does anyone know where to find one? Definitely staying home all the time does not help but oh well.
If you ask me why I gave 3 stars (and I want to highlight I never do this kind of explanation but I feel the need here) I could not give at least 4 start although I enjoyed the book. But when I though if I would like to read more or would I reread this book I was like nope and I was skimming the last dunno 10% I know it not much perhaps but it left a bitter taste. And I feel like a 3some might develop although it was not hinted at least romantically but I really dislike those so I stay away.
But in general, it is good, I mean you can never have enough book boyfriend and he fits the criteria. Oh the one thing that was bugging me was how similar the names were, I mean Ari and Ark (I know they are not set to this nickname but still).
The premise of having a soul mate out there is what appealed to me. Also I liked the fact there was a brooding swoon worthy male hahha but then with time he became more open and a perfect, loving boyfriend (ngl I find saying boyfriend weird). Does anyone know where to find one? Definitely staying home all the time does not help but oh well.
If you ask me why I gave 3 stars (and I want to highlight I never do this kind of explanation but I feel the need here) I could not give at least 4 start although I enjoyed the book. But when I though if I would like to read more or would I reread this book I was like nope and I was skimming the last dunno 10% I know it not much perhaps but it left a bitter taste. And I feel like a 3some might develop although it was not hinted at least romantically but I really dislike those so I stay away.
But in general, it is good, I mean you can never have enough book boyfriend and he fits the criteria. Oh the one thing that was bugging me was how similar the names were, I mean Ari and Ark (I know they are not set to this nickname but still).
March 22, 2022
This was a great debut fantasy book.
It’s is upper NA fantasy with some spice.
The main character has all the qualities I love: fights for her family, true to herself, does not back down from a fight, and learns to accept herself as she is.
The pacing at times and writing was not quite right, but it did not take away from the overall story. I couldn’t put it down and I’m ready for the next book.
Includes destined mates (sooooo cute), enemies to tentative friends to lovers. Lots of unknown mysteries to figure out.
I really want to learn more about the magic system and the rest of the works outside of the island they live on. I think this series has great potential as does the author. 🖤
It’s is upper NA fantasy with some spice.
The main character has all the qualities I love: fights for her family, true to herself, does not back down from a fight, and learns to accept herself as she is.
The pacing at times and writing was not quite right, but it did not take away from the overall story. I couldn’t put it down and I’m ready for the next book.
Includes destined mates (sooooo cute), enemies to tentative friends to lovers. Lots of unknown mysteries to figure out.
I really want to learn more about the magic system and the rest of the works outside of the island they live on. I think this series has great potential as does the author. 🖤
February 21, 2022
The plot of this book is literally nothing but the main character having over sexed up thoughts about the other main character. I mean at least once on every page it is mentioned how hot or how intriguing he is.
I don’t know about you but I like it when you can actually see relationships develop between characters? You like him. Why? You trust him. Why? You would go to battle for him. Why?
This book just told me these things. There was no details or story backing it. It just WAS.
I skimmed the last 60% just to see how the smut scenes were and even that left much to be desired.
I don’t know about you but I like it when you can actually see relationships develop between characters? You like him. Why? You trust him. Why? You would go to battle for him. Why?
This book just told me these things. There was no details or story backing it. It just WAS.
I skimmed the last 60% just to see how the smut scenes were and even that left much to be desired.
August 9, 2021
The Curse of the Crow is a book that tests the expectations of the main characters personally and against each other. Fated to be soul mates, these two met at far too young an age to understand what it meant. Taken from their home into an island city where magic was blocked, Nava developed a biased dislike toward magic, only seeing it as a harbinger of devastation. Arkimedes is forced to follow her due to the soul mate bond, but cannot enter the city because of his ties to magic. Neither wants their soul mate, but fate demands they be close, or die.
As they run from the Crows, a group who desires to collect and breed those with magic, Nava doesn't allow herself to see the signs of her soul mate even as she falls for him. Arkimedes knows of their connection and fights it at first, then isn't certain when to tell her because of her insistence she doesn't want her soul mate. When this point of conflict comes to a head, these two characters have one of the most realistic arguments I've read in fantasy romance, with both being wrong, and right, and too hurt to acknowledge the other. Yet.
The plot of this story is woven beautifully with the development of their relationship. I fully enjoyed watching them develop as they both navigated their personal and joint challenges. The world Abbey brings us is rich, and thick with the promise of more to come. I'm looking forward to the future of this series and what is in store.
As they run from the Crows, a group who desires to collect and breed those with magic, Nava doesn't allow herself to see the signs of her soul mate even as she falls for him. Arkimedes knows of their connection and fights it at first, then isn't certain when to tell her because of her insistence she doesn't want her soul mate. When this point of conflict comes to a head, these two characters have one of the most realistic arguments I've read in fantasy romance, with both being wrong, and right, and too hurt to acknowledge the other. Yet.
The plot of this story is woven beautifully with the development of their relationship. I fully enjoyed watching them develop as they both navigated their personal and joint challenges. The world Abbey brings us is rich, and thick with the promise of more to come. I'm looking forward to the future of this series and what is in store.
July 27, 2021
Tᕼᗴ ᑕᑌᖇᔕᗴ Oᖴ Tᕼᗴ ᑕᖇOᗯᔕ
~ 𝔸𝕓𝕓𝕖𝕪 𝔽𝕠𝕩
𝙵𝚒𝚛𝚜𝚝 𝚘𝚏 𝚊𝚕𝚕 𝙸 𝚠𝚊𝚗𝚝 𝚝𝚘 𝚜𝚊𝚢 𝚃𝙷𝙰𝙽𝙺 𝚈𝙾𝚄 𝚝𝚘 @abbeyfoxauthor 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚙𝚒𝚌𝚔𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚖𝚎 𝚒𝚗 𝚑𝚎𝚛 𝙰𝚁𝙲-𝚝𝚎𝚊𝚖. 𝚃𝚑𝚊𝚗𝚔𝚜 𝚊 𝚕𝚘𝚝 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚝𝚛𝚞𝚜𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚖𝚎 𝚠𝚒𝚝𝚑 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚋𝚘𝚘𝚔𝚒𝚜𝚑 𝚋𝚊𝚋𝚢, 𝚝𝚘 𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚍 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚛𝚎𝚟𝚒𝚎𝚠 𝚒𝚝.
… ____ … 🪶… ____ …
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
This first part in the series The Wicked Kingdom has many elements that you immediately recognize if you like to read in this genre. For example, the main character Nava grows up without parents. Her parents fought a battle because of their love for each other where (not) having magical powers was a tricky point. A scar plays an important role, and Nava is hunted by the Society of Crows, while she learns her gift little by little. All these elements could have been worked out with a little more authenticity in my opinion to give the story a little bit more ’Abbey Foxiness’.
But on the other hand, I really like the original element in the story about the role that was reserved for nature. In particular the bees. The beautiful drawings at the beginning of each chapter underlined this in a spectacular way.
Throughout the story, the recurring message is that magic always has a price. In addition, discovering your true self and making decisions that determine life, are central themes as well. That makes 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘊𝘶𝘳𝘴𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘊𝘳𝘰𝘸𝘴 a story with a message. That's why I enjoyed this book and rate it with 🌟🌟🌟 bright stars.
I could recommend this book to all fans of the genres 𝘧𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘴𝘺, 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘨-𝘰𝘳 𝘯𝘦𝘸 𝘢𝘥𝘶𝘭𝘵 and 𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦.
~ 𝔸𝕓𝕓𝕖𝕪 𝔽𝕠𝕩
𝙵𝚒𝚛𝚜𝚝 𝚘𝚏 𝚊𝚕𝚕 𝙸 𝚠𝚊𝚗𝚝 𝚝𝚘 𝚜𝚊𝚢 𝚃𝙷𝙰𝙽𝙺 𝚈𝙾𝚄 𝚝𝚘 @abbeyfoxauthor 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚙𝚒𝚌𝚔𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚖𝚎 𝚒𝚗 𝚑𝚎𝚛 𝙰𝚁𝙲-𝚝𝚎𝚊𝚖. 𝚃𝚑𝚊𝚗𝚔𝚜 𝚊 𝚕𝚘𝚝 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚝𝚛𝚞𝚜𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚖𝚎 𝚠𝚒𝚝𝚑 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚋𝚘𝚘𝚔𝚒𝚜𝚑 𝚋𝚊𝚋𝚢, 𝚝𝚘 𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚍 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚛𝚎𝚟𝚒𝚎𝚠 𝚒𝚝.
… ____ … 🪶… ____ …
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
This first part in the series The Wicked Kingdom has many elements that you immediately recognize if you like to read in this genre. For example, the main character Nava grows up without parents. Her parents fought a battle because of their love for each other where (not) having magical powers was a tricky point. A scar plays an important role, and Nava is hunted by the Society of Crows, while she learns her gift little by little. All these elements could have been worked out with a little more authenticity in my opinion to give the story a little bit more ’Abbey Foxiness’.
But on the other hand, I really like the original element in the story about the role that was reserved for nature. In particular the bees. The beautiful drawings at the beginning of each chapter underlined this in a spectacular way.
Throughout the story, the recurring message is that magic always has a price. In addition, discovering your true self and making decisions that determine life, are central themes as well. That makes 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘊𝘶𝘳𝘴𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘊𝘳𝘰𝘸𝘴 a story with a message. That's why I enjoyed this book and rate it with 🌟🌟🌟 bright stars.
I could recommend this book to all fans of the genres 𝘧𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘴𝘺, 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘨-𝘰𝘳 𝘯𝘦𝘸 𝘢𝘥𝘶𝘭𝘵 and 𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦.
August 23, 2021
I won't lie soulmates are touchy for me but this one sounded so interesting I couldn't stop myself from reading it and I am glad I did. Sometimes fated love feels like the characters don't take the time to get to know one another and it's just instant love. Luckily that is not the case. Despite being fated together Nava doesn't know it and fights to choose Ark herself. Ark knows it and fights it tooth and claw it seems. But they find all the things about one another that makes them perfect together. Don't get me wrong it's definitely instant lust but the love comes over time. That was well done.
Nava was a great character and we got to see her grow and progress on many levels. Ark was likewise interesting. His past and present melded in such a complex manner. I honestly cannot wait to read more of them and where they go from here.
Nava was a great character and we got to see her grow and progress on many levels. Ark was likewise interesting. His past and present melded in such a complex manner. I honestly cannot wait to read more of them and where they go from here.
July 31, 2021
I absoloutely adore this book, from the characters to the plot. The setting still amuses me a lot. Abbey did such a great job with the world building. I love the magic element in this story.
The novel is named so accurately, the story slowly unfolds the meaning behind the title. Nava is such a interesting character, it's cool how at the start even without magic she had a duel eith Arkimedes.
The story keeps you wanting more, and captures you till the end. This one is definitely recommended.
~ This arc was kindly provided to me by the author who I am very grateful for.
The novel is named so accurately, the story slowly unfolds the meaning behind the title. Nava is such a interesting character, it's cool how at the start even without magic she had a duel eith Arkimedes.
The story keeps you wanting more, and captures you till the end. This one is definitely recommended.
~ This arc was kindly provided to me by the author who I am very grateful for.
August 10, 2021
This is a fantastic fantasy romance! It a well written tale of fated loves / soul mates who meet at way to early an age to know what it meant. Fast forward and Nava is in trouble and the only one who can help her is Arkimedes her soul mate. It’s well written and gripping, exciting and mysterious, full of adventure and danger and the world building is so good that I found myself totally sucked in and easy to visualise. A fantastic read that I did not want to end!
February 11, 2024
This is the first book in the upper new adult romantasy series The Wicked Kingdom. This is the story of a young woman who has to flee her village in search I’d the one person that can protect her. Tropes include fated mates, slowburn, she rescues him p, a winged MMC and self-discovery. There is some spice but it’s minimal and not done in great detail.
The Lovely: I loved the main characters and how their relationship developed over the course of the story. It wasn’t easy, clean or fast so the slowburn was delicious. The FMC has a self-discovery journey in this story that feels authentic and real as she struggles with what she’s been told in the past versus what she learns from other characters now. Also, I love the Beekeper 😂
The Mundane: I found the plot to be fairly predictable - as in, I knew early on who her soulmate was. This decreases any real tension as it was pretty much a given how it would end. I was definitely reading more for the “how” and “why”, rather than the “what.” Maybe because of this the ending seemed too easy. A prior encounter with the villains felt like it had much higher stakes so this final encounter didn’t really have much tension.
Rating: 4/5 Stars 2/5 Flames
Recommendation: Overall, I enjoyed the characters and their relationship. I’m going to start the next book tomorrow as it sounds like the stakes are higher and I’m now worried for the main characters. Eek! If you like new adult romantasy with interesting (and mysterious) characters, and a not-so-easy relationship, I think you would like this book.
The Lovely: I loved the main characters and how their relationship developed over the course of the story. It wasn’t easy, clean or fast so the slowburn was delicious. The FMC has a self-discovery journey in this story that feels authentic and real as she struggles with what she’s been told in the past versus what she learns from other characters now. Also, I love the Beekeper 😂
The Mundane: I found the plot to be fairly predictable - as in, I knew early on who her soulmate was. This decreases any real tension as it was pretty much a given how it would end. I was definitely reading more for the “how” and “why”, rather than the “what.” Maybe because of this the ending seemed too easy. A prior encounter with the villains felt like it had much higher stakes so this final encounter didn’t really have much tension.
Rating: 4/5 Stars 2/5 Flames
Recommendation: Overall, I enjoyed the characters and their relationship. I’m going to start the next book tomorrow as it sounds like the stakes are higher and I’m now worried for the main characters. Eek! If you like new adult romantasy with interesting (and mysterious) characters, and a not-so-easy relationship, I think you would like this book.
August 10, 2021
THANK YOU for send me this ARC, I enjoyed from beginning to ending!
The book is outstanding. It's a beautiful world building with different creatures, sorcerers and power. It's well balanced between descriptions of places and all the action in the story, so you can follow into the characters trail, living the story with them. The characters are amazing and they take you into a world of adventure, action, and magic. I fell in love with Nava and Ark right away, and their romance is fun and addicting. Nava is a strong young woman that goes on a journey to find her true self and develop so much as character. And her awkwardness and unfiltered mouth around Ark only made her more endearing and fun. I couldn't put the book down, and I can't wait for book two in the series to come out.
The book is outstanding. It's a beautiful world building with different creatures, sorcerers and power. It's well balanced between descriptions of places and all the action in the story, so you can follow into the characters trail, living the story with them. The characters are amazing and they take you into a world of adventure, action, and magic. I fell in love with Nava and Ark right away, and their romance is fun and addicting. Nava is a strong young woman that goes on a journey to find her true self and develop so much as character. And her awkwardness and unfiltered mouth around Ark only made her more endearing and fun. I couldn't put the book down, and I can't wait for book two in the series to come out.
October 15, 2021
I absolutely loved this book! The world building, the characters and the magic system! I cannot wait to dive into the second book in this amazing series!
July 17, 2021
THE CURSE OF THE CROW - BOOK REVIEW
First of all, your writing is imacculate. I couldn't stop reading, I was caught from the first chapter to the last. Seriously, the world you built is so splending and intricate, I just had to know more about it. Nava's character development was huge and much needed. Ah, Arkimedes, Ark, Archie; what can I say? He is now added to the list of fictional men I simp for, and, girl, I ain't jokin'. But, I almost ripped my hair out when he said he couldn't keep going with the make-out session. You, author, KILLED ME THERE. Now, that intimate scene was well written. The words you used to describe every move, touch, feeling, etc. was awesome. You made it look like it wasn't just about desire and lust but about how much they truly love and care about each other. The sneak peek of book two still has me CRAZY. I'm so happy I got the chance to get an ARC from this book, this is now one of my favorite reads of 2021. I love this book, so, so, much. Five stars
First of all, your writing is imacculate. I couldn't stop reading, I was caught from the first chapter to the last. Seriously, the world you built is so splending and intricate, I just had to know more about it. Nava's character development was huge and much needed. Ah, Arkimedes, Ark, Archie; what can I say? He is now added to the list of fictional men I simp for, and, girl, I ain't jokin'. But, I almost ripped my hair out when he said he couldn't keep going with the make-out session. You, author, KILLED ME THERE. Now, that intimate scene was well written. The words you used to describe every move, touch, feeling, etc. was awesome. You made it look like it wasn't just about desire and lust but about how much they truly love and care about each other. The sneak peek of book two still has me CRAZY. I'm so happy I got the chance to get an ARC from this book, this is now one of my favorite reads of 2021. I love this book, so, so, much. Five stars
July 22, 2021
I enjoyed following Nava and Arkimedes through an enchanted forest adventure. They are both likable, understandable characters with a sweet-turned-steamy slow-burn romance. Nava’s nature magic was very cool 🐝 and she develops into a brave heroine. 💪
February 22, 2022
First half good, second half eh...
What I didn't like:
1. Pretty much obvious plot, we knew from the start who main hero to heroine. The same thing about ending, very predictable. If you looking for plot twists and for clutching your pearls, just don't.
2. Bigger part of the book they just travel through the wood.
3. Name main characters with the same letter A. It's made everything confusing till the end of the book. Aristaeus and Arkimedes. See?
4. Tell person that you wouldn't judge them if they had others sexual partners before you and become instantly judgy and jealous after you got your answer.
5. Author used a lot of repetitive phrases which become very annoying in the middle of the book, like hero face was constantly softening or palled. Or he was jumping away from her as if she burned him. Isn't in English language a lot of synonyms? I'm not native speaker but even for me it was noticeable.
6. Biggest disappointment! Smutty scenes wasn't really hot, when they kissed first time and started undress it was alright and organic, but their final scene wasn't sexy and somehow cringey. It come out of nowhere. Probably it would be much better if author left sex scene for a second book. And their dirty talk was so lame and more like a joke. Also it was more modern dialogue, like it was from some other book. And, they had unprotected sex, but didn't talked about pregnancy and children. Not cool.
7. Conflict of main heroes was resolved pretty much quickly, he shamelessly lied to her all book long and she forgive him mostly because he her soulmate.
8. I don't know what her mother thought when she desided to make our heroine defenceless without magic.
9. Curse was lifted so easily. They didn't even know what helped.
10. Although I liked this book even so it have some flaws, when the truth come out and heroine realized that hero is her soulmate, book become somehow boring after this. And the rhythm of the story was disturbed. It was very slow and moderately paced and suddenly it was jumping and quickened. First part of the book 4-5 stars, but ending definitely 3.
11. Our untrained heroine become super magic warrior overnight and saved hero like piece of cake. Then she again become weakling, then again strong.
12. Why most strong sorcerer left town and girl he supposed to protect and went on some scout mission? Because she hurt his feeling, seriously?
13. What about heroines and their lack of orgasms? She never heard about self pleasuring? She had so many dreams about her soulmate and never woke up aroused? I hate when author make their heroines inexperienced maidens that never come before and heroes sex gods.
14. I don't know, maybe I become insensitive but their "I love you's" make me feel nothing.
15. Villain in this book just a joke, I didn't get his motivation or great plan.
So I liked 60% of the book and it was very entertaining till the last 15 chapters or so. I liked dynamic between main heroes. I liked that we have their alone time for the most part of the book. There isn't many second characters, that putted in the book only to gather space and make annoying empty dialogues. I liked hero he was cute, I liked that he was sometimes shy and blushed or awkward. They have chemistry till the moment they started undress, so eh. I liked heroine, she wasn't annoying or something. But I preferred if she was more badass. And thank the goddess she wasn't virgin.
Probably gonna try a second book, but I dissatisfied, I feel this book had great potential, but something was missing. Some deepness.
What I didn't like:
1. Pretty much obvious plot, we knew from the start who main hero to heroine. The same thing about ending, very predictable. If you looking for plot twists and for clutching your pearls, just don't.
2. Bigger part of the book they just travel through the wood.
3. Name main characters with the same letter A. It's made everything confusing till the end of the book. Aristaeus and Arkimedes. See?
4. Tell person that you wouldn't judge them if they had others sexual partners before you and become instantly judgy and jealous after you got your answer.
5. Author used a lot of repetitive phrases which become very annoying in the middle of the book, like hero face was constantly softening or palled. Or he was jumping away from her as if she burned him. Isn't in English language a lot of synonyms? I'm not native speaker but even for me it was noticeable.
6. Biggest disappointment! Smutty scenes wasn't really hot, when they kissed first time and started undress it was alright and organic, but their final scene wasn't sexy and somehow cringey. It come out of nowhere. Probably it would be much better if author left sex scene for a second book. And their dirty talk was so lame and more like a joke. Also it was more modern dialogue, like it was from some other book. And, they had unprotected sex, but didn't talked about pregnancy and children. Not cool.
7. Conflict of main heroes was resolved pretty much quickly, he shamelessly lied to her all book long and she forgive him mostly because he her soulmate.
8. I don't know what her mother thought when she desided to make our heroine defenceless without magic.
9. Curse was lifted so easily. They didn't even know what helped.
10. Although I liked this book even so it have some flaws, when the truth come out and heroine realized that hero is her soulmate, book become somehow boring after this. And the rhythm of the story was disturbed. It was very slow and moderately paced and suddenly it was jumping and quickened. First part of the book 4-5 stars, but ending definitely 3.
11. Our untrained heroine become super magic warrior overnight and saved hero like piece of cake. Then she again become weakling, then again strong.
12. Why most strong sorcerer left town and girl he supposed to protect and went on some scout mission? Because she hurt his feeling, seriously?
13. What about heroines and their lack of orgasms? She never heard about self pleasuring? She had so many dreams about her soulmate and never woke up aroused? I hate when author make their heroines inexperienced maidens that never come before and heroes sex gods.
14. I don't know, maybe I become insensitive but their "I love you's" make me feel nothing.
15. Villain in this book just a joke, I didn't get his motivation or great plan.
So I liked 60% of the book and it was very entertaining till the last 15 chapters or so. I liked dynamic between main heroes. I liked that we have their alone time for the most part of the book. There isn't many second characters, that putted in the book only to gather space and make annoying empty dialogues. I liked hero he was cute, I liked that he was sometimes shy and blushed or awkward. They have chemistry till the moment they started undress, so eh. I liked heroine, she wasn't annoying or something. But I preferred if she was more badass. And thank the goddess she wasn't virgin.
Probably gonna try a second book, but I dissatisfied, I feel this book had great potential, but something was missing. Some deepness.
March 7, 2022
I received an arc from the amazing author!
So this book is so amazing!
It brings you in a magical world that contains a lot of actions.
I loved Nava so much and the development she went through in this book. She was young when she met her soulmate or I would say a glimpse. From that day, her world changed. Because her mom did something that was not acceptable for the crown.
Things got interesting when by accident the crows find her and she has to flee from the city where she thought that she was protected.
If your question is "is there romance?"
Ooh hell yessss.
I really enjoyed it and I can't wait to read the second book after reading the sneak peak!! 😍
I highly recommend this, especially if you are searching for something fast paced or want to get over a reading slump!
So this book is so amazing!
It brings you in a magical world that contains a lot of actions.
I loved Nava so much and the development she went through in this book. She was young when she met her soulmate or I would say a glimpse. From that day, her world changed. Because her mom did something that was not acceptable for the crown.
Things got interesting when by accident the crows find her and she has to flee from the city where she thought that she was protected.
If your question is "is there romance?"
Ooh hell yessss.
I really enjoyed it and I can't wait to read the second book after reading the sneak peak!! 😍
I highly recommend this, especially if you are searching for something fast paced or want to get over a reading slump!
February 25, 2022
DNF @ 20%. 2.5 stars.
The cover of this book is gorgeous, and I really liked the little sketches that started off each chapter. The art is unfortunately the best part about the book in my experience. The plot seems like a typical YA adventure fantasy, which I can roll with if I like the writing or characters, but neither really spoke to me. The writing seems immature and a little juvenile (especially the dialog which also sounds pretty modern which doesn’t fit with the fantasy vibes to me), as does the main character. The plot also moves at blinding speed; I have action-whiplash, and I only got to 20%.
I got the sense that this might be a better fit for younger YA fans as well.
The cover of this book is gorgeous, and I really liked the little sketches that started off each chapter. The art is unfortunately the best part about the book in my experience. The plot seems like a typical YA adventure fantasy, which I can roll with if I like the writing or characters, but neither really spoke to me. The writing seems immature and a little juvenile (especially the dialog which also sounds pretty modern which doesn’t fit with the fantasy vibes to me), as does the main character. The plot also moves at blinding speed; I have action-whiplash, and I only got to 20%.
I got the sense that this might be a better fit for younger YA fans as well.
December 19, 2021
I was given an ARC of The Curse of the Crow in exchange for an honest review.
I definitely enjoyed it. Some parts were a little predictable, however it didn't put me off the story overall. I like how Abbey has set up the story to continue in the sequel, just enough threads to weave, as well as how she has integrated various types of magic into the overall story. The characters were fairly well-developed, and believable for the most part. I can't give a full 5* as I did find parts predictable, but it was an excellent story, and I look forward to reading the sequel!!
I definitely enjoyed it. Some parts were a little predictable, however it didn't put me off the story overall. I like how Abbey has set up the story to continue in the sequel, just enough threads to weave, as well as how she has integrated various types of magic into the overall story. The characters were fairly well-developed, and believable for the most part. I can't give a full 5* as I did find parts predictable, but it was an excellent story, and I look forward to reading the sequel!!
June 15, 2022
Not Engaging
DNF. Dialogue isn’t very interesting/is too simple and cliche. Too many modern words like “sucks,” “butthead,” “screwed,” and “derail.” Intimate scenes are poorly written, mostly just saying things like “desire pooled in her core” and “her blood boiled” over and over. Some of the scenarios were unbelievable, such as a sorcerer in search of the FMC not taking her when we was alone in her shop and the most powerful sorcerer only being guarded by two people.
DNF. Dialogue isn’t very interesting/is too simple and cliche. Too many modern words like “sucks,” “butthead,” “screwed,” and “derail.” Intimate scenes are poorly written, mostly just saying things like “desire pooled in her core” and “her blood boiled” over and over. Some of the scenarios were unbelievable, such as a sorcerer in search of the FMC not taking her when we was alone in her shop and the most powerful sorcerer only being guarded by two people.
January 3, 2022
I loved the plot and storyline, but the romance was just not there for me. It felt like they both fought their soulmate tie and wanted to retain their freedom but then kind of fell in love. Even though at first it was for sure if they were soulmates but it was so painfully obvious. I still enjoyed the story but it was too easy to know how the romance would end up.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 26, 2021
What a great read! This is my first book by Ms. Fox and I can say the characters grabbed me from Chapter 1 until the end and left me wanting more. I can’t wait for the next book!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 191 reviews