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Gold #1
Thicker Than Gold
Reyah could never have imagined seeing the inside of the palace, let alone living there. But by a twist of fate, she now finds herself the most recent addition to the illustrious palace harem. Normally self-assured in her chosen profession, she becomes unsettled as she discovers that the King with whom she is meant to share a bed, has certain dark and lascivious predilections. At first apprehensive, the King submerges Reyah into a world where pain and pleasure blend, and her eventual submission leads to events that could rewrite all the secrets of her past.
308 pages, Paperback
Published September 26, 2022
190 people are currently reading
2679 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 151 reviews
October 31, 2022
Thicker Than Gold is the first of a three-book series by author June Harding. Harding is a self-published author that has allowed social media to give her wings and fly. The BookTok Community has seriously shed some light on amazing up and coming authors. Allowing them to spread their wings and test the waters. I will make this clear, this is an author that promotes her work heavily, and promotes it well. She does not say it’s one thing and markets her series as another. I state this plainly in black and white.
If you’re not into #DarkRomance, this book is not for you. Highly recommended 18+. This is a historical take on the BDSM community and the submission of MC Reyah. Reyah lands herself a position as one of three “companions”. The first book is about current events and building what is to come. I will say, I am highly anticipating the back story to the main character. I feel it in my gut something is here. By the end, (a few chapters prior to the end) that iconic moment (for any elder millennial) – Twilight: New Moon… her gasp. I felt that down to my core.
I have tip toed on a few indie authors and this is by far the best story, storyline, and THE scenes!? By the very end, I see this going in so many ways. That pull and draw to the next book is there. I never wanted my reviews to sound like a schoolgirl crush but I’m telling you - read it.
I am a supporter of this author and her insight on this story. I’m absolutely thrilled to be an ARC for the next book in the series. I might even have to call out of work for this one. I’m unaware of the authors intentions on future publication. I’m not sure why a publisher has not picked this one up or if the author remains to be self-published. With that being said, of course you’re going to see typographical errors here and there. See her story.
Brighter Than Gold will be released November 25th! GET READY!
Note to Author: I need a prequel of Yates. I need some serious "let's be honest" action from Yates. I see the darkness in her character and find it thrilling!
P.S. Yes, Finn! We not only need pictures but we need some serious character art commissioned! Overlays would be magical!
If you’re not into #DarkRomance, this book is not for you. Highly recommended 18+. This is a historical take on the BDSM community and the submission of MC Reyah. Reyah lands herself a position as one of three “companions”. The first book is about current events and building what is to come. I will say, I am highly anticipating the back story to the main character. I feel it in my gut something is here. By the end, (a few chapters prior to the end) that iconic moment (for any elder millennial) – Twilight: New Moon… her gasp. I felt that down to my core.
I have tip toed on a few indie authors and this is by far the best story, storyline, and THE scenes!? By the very end, I see this going in so many ways. That pull and draw to the next book is there. I never wanted my reviews to sound like a schoolgirl crush but I’m telling you - read it.
I am a supporter of this author and her insight on this story. I’m absolutely thrilled to be an ARC for the next book in the series. I might even have to call out of work for this one. I’m unaware of the authors intentions on future publication. I’m not sure why a publisher has not picked this one up or if the author remains to be self-published. With that being said, of course you’re going to see typographical errors here and there. See her story.
Brighter Than Gold will be released November 25th! GET READY!
Note to Author: I need a prequel of Yates. I need some serious "let's be honest" action from Yates. I see the darkness in her character and find it thrilling!
P.S. Yes, Finn! We not only need pictures but we need some serious character art commissioned! Overlays would be magical!
September 29, 2022
What started as a 'I will just read one chapter before bed' ended 8 hours later in a blanket fort, surrounded by empty junk food wrappers, flustered and gagging for the next installment.
This debut is incredible, the characters are well done, the description of everything is on point and the spice is *perfection*.
I can hands down say this is my fav book of the year and that is a hard won trophy with the amount of books I devour.
Side note: I highly recommend not reading this in public unless you have the poker face of a God and stone cold control over the ability to not turn 50 shades of red because Miss Harding knew EXACTLY what she was doing with this masterpiece.
This debut is incredible, the characters are well done, the description of everything is on point and the spice is *perfection*.
I can hands down say this is my fav book of the year and that is a hard won trophy with the amount of books I devour.
Side note: I highly recommend not reading this in public unless you have the poker face of a God and stone cold control over the ability to not turn 50 shades of red because Miss Harding knew EXACTLY what she was doing with this masterpiece.
February 24, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5 🌶🌶🌶/5
TW - Reference to underage sexual assault, infertility, sex work, death of a a parent (mentioned), death of a child (in child birth, recounted), suggestion of self harm (mentioned in passing, secondary character), plot spoilers:
CW - Bondage, D/s, sadism, masochism, edging, spit play, whipping and striking.
Tropes - fantasy, romance, possessive MMC, plot spoilers:
This book starts with Reyah (FMC) in a brothel and she is later chosen to go to the palace and serve one of the 4 Kings.
My fav thing so far about this book is Nyx and Reyah's friendship; I really did enjoy reading about them and their encounters the most. I loved how they instantly took to each other and then remained each other's rocks throughout everything that happens in this book.
The smut was good, I love reading D/s 👌🏾. I'm not really sold on King Burke as a MMC but, given the circumstances of how they came to be together and everything that transpires after the fact, I understand why it somewhat appears that way.
I am sus of Reyah and Briggs and thought it was weird that she didn't mentioned to Burke that she had encountered him previously. There were also times where Reyah spoke about feeling guilty and I was just like 👀
Scale:
⭐️ - would've DNF'ed / continued out of spite
⭐️⭐️ - shit, but whatever
⭐️⭐️⭐️ - meh, could've been better
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - lit 👅
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - loved it, inject this shit into my veins 🤪
🫑 - no smut
🌶 - no point
🌶🌶 - mediocre at best
🌶🌶🌶 - standard smut, hot
🌶🌶🌶🌶 - 🥵 okay, some CW
🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶 - fuck me 🥵🥵 CWs / filthy with a side of filth - see Poison / Room Twenty-Two: Hide and Seek
TW - Reference to underage sexual assault, infertility, sex work, death of a a parent (mentioned), death of a child (in child birth, recounted), suggestion of self harm (mentioned in passing, secondary character), plot spoilers:
CW - Bondage, D/s, sadism, masochism, edging, spit play, whipping and striking.
Tropes - fantasy, romance, possessive MMC, plot spoilers:
This book starts with Reyah (FMC) in a brothel and she is later chosen to go to the palace and serve one of the 4 Kings.
My fav thing so far about this book is Nyx and Reyah's friendship; I really did enjoy reading about them and their encounters the most. I loved how they instantly took to each other and then remained each other's rocks throughout everything that happens in this book.
The smut was good, I love reading D/s 👌🏾. I'm not really sold on King Burke as a MMC but, given the circumstances of how they came to be together and everything that transpires after the fact, I understand why it somewhat appears that way.
I am sus of Reyah and Briggs and thought it was weird that she didn't mentioned to Burke that she had encountered him previously. There were also times where Reyah spoke about feeling guilty and I was just like 👀
Scale:
⭐️ - would've DNF'ed / continued out of spite
⭐️⭐️ - shit, but whatever
⭐️⭐️⭐️ - meh, could've been better
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - lit 👅
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - loved it, inject this shit into my veins 🤪
🫑 - no smut
🌶 - no point
🌶🌶 - mediocre at best
🌶🌶🌶 - standard smut, hot
🌶🌶🌶🌶 - 🥵 okay, some CW
🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶 - fuck me 🥵🥵 CWs / filthy with a side of filth - see Poison / Room Twenty-Two: Hide and Seek
September 20, 2022
I got an ARC of the book, I was excited to support a Canadian author! I don’t normally read this genre so it took me a few days to get into but once I did… OH-MY-GOD!
Her debut novel did not disappoint!!
It was this whole other world! I will say to check the triggers there are a few things about this world that I did not know and was introduced to it like… “boom here you go!”
I am not one for spoilers so all I’m going to say is, June, that ending!?! WHAT! Definitely curious to see book 2 and hoping that I get more of Reyah!
For sure going to keep my eye on June and her books looking forward to seeing more.
Her debut novel did not disappoint!!
It was this whole other world! I will say to check the triggers there are a few things about this world that I did not know and was introduced to it like… “boom here you go!”
I am not one for spoilers so all I’m going to say is, June, that ending!?! WHAT! Definitely curious to see book 2 and hoping that I get more of Reyah!
For sure going to keep my eye on June and her books looking forward to seeing more.
October 2, 2022
Thicker Than Gold is a beautifully written novel, that portrays a dominate/submissive relationship in more then the sexual sense. The experience is incredibly immersive, engaging all of your senses and emotions. Never have I been so invested in a book!
September 14, 2022
This book is STUNNING!! The author has managed to give top rate spice think like 4-5 level while also maintaining a plot that you actually want to read! The best developed character is definitely Reyah the main female character. She is very relatable and very protective of people she cares about. I also appreciated her apprehension when it came to Burke’s preferences. This does end on a little bit of a cliffhanger which for me is annoying because I am impatient haha. This is one of those books that I could totally see people having conspiracy theories about the characters. I HIGHLY recommend this book!
September 6, 2022
I was lucky enough to read Thicker than Gold before its release and OMG June Harding's debut novel does not disappoint. I went from "I'll just read a few chapters before bed" to "it's 3 am and I need book #2 ASAP". I loved the characters (Burke and Reyah for the win!), and she did an amazing job at creating this magical fantasy world of secrets, intrigue and unimaginable luxuries. Definitely recommend!
September 19, 2022
I really enjoyed this book, but it is not a normal romantasy book. The romance is there, but you don't get the same traditional fuzzy warm romance feelings while reading. This is an instance where the FMC is to be loyal to the MMC, while the MMC doesn't need to be.
This book gave me the same feeling as when I read book 1 in the plated poisoner series. This book itself wasn't phenomenal, but you can see how it's been set up to make the remainder of this series phenomenal. It was a little slow and heavy on world building, but that's to be expected with a book 1 like this.
This was a great book 1 in a series. This book has a lot of tropes/things I wouldn't normally like, but in this book it all just worked here:
Cheating trope - Typically I can't stand when there is cheating. This story takes place in a world where the four kings are married but each holds a group of escorts to warm their beds in the evening. The FMC is an escort who works for one of the four kings. That means the MMC is married as well as seeing various other escorts. That's normally my things, but it was done very well in this book. It felt more Game of Thrones (It's my duty), than cheating. You could also consider this not a cheating trope because everyone in this world knows the way of things and is ok with it...
MMC sends the FMC away after relations - There are a few instances in this book that the MMC and FMC have some spicy relations (The spice is absolutely wonderful FYI). After when the FMC is feeling vulnerable and upset the MMC will hug her and tell her it's ok, but then send her back to her own quarters. It's very strange, but it makes sense in this world. I would like the MMC to be more in touch with the FMC's feelings.
***This is your formal warning that the next trope could be some potential spoilers***
***You have ben warned***
***Stop reading if you don't want a spoiler***
Surprise Pregnancy Trope - I despise this trope with a fiery passion, but once again, it somehow worked in this context. You do see it coming when they make a big deal of taking the tonic, then the king forcing her to eat spicy food until she throws up, followed by them getting it on. Then she starts getting sick and you just know. With that said, I didn't predict what happens after she finds out she is pregnant. There are some holes at the ending that have me excited to read the next book.
This book gave me the same feeling as when I read book 1 in the plated poisoner series. This book itself wasn't phenomenal, but you can see how it's been set up to make the remainder of this series phenomenal. It was a little slow and heavy on world building, but that's to be expected with a book 1 like this.
This was a great book 1 in a series. This book has a lot of tropes/things I wouldn't normally like, but in this book it all just worked here:
Cheating trope - Typically I can't stand when there is cheating. This story takes place in a world where the four kings are married but each holds a group of escorts to warm their beds in the evening. The FMC is an escort who works for one of the four kings. That means the MMC is married as well as seeing various other escorts. That's normally my things, but it was done very well in this book. It felt more Game of Thrones (It's my duty), than cheating. You could also consider this not a cheating trope because everyone in this world knows the way of things and is ok with it...
MMC sends the FMC away after relations - There are a few instances in this book that the MMC and FMC have some spicy relations (The spice is absolutely wonderful FYI). After when the FMC is feeling vulnerable and upset the MMC will hug her and tell her it's ok, but then send her back to her own quarters. It's very strange, but it makes sense in this world. I would like the MMC to be more in touch with the FMC's feelings.
***This is your formal warning that the next trope could be some potential spoilers***
***You have ben warned***
***Stop reading if you don't want a spoiler***
Surprise Pregnancy Trope - I despise this trope with a fiery passion, but once again, it somehow worked in this context. You do see it coming when they make a big deal of taking the tonic, then the king forcing her to eat spicy food until she throws up, followed by them getting it on. Then she starts getting sick and you just know. With that said, I didn't predict what happens after she finds out she is pregnant. There are some holes at the ending that have me excited to read the next book.
February 2, 2025
3.5
“There you are, Little Raven…”
Okay, so I really enjoyed this book but at the same time not a lot happened?? I think things are about to go down in book 2 though.
I loved King Burke as a dom, but idkkk something about him is FISHY TO ME!! 👃And I could totally be wrong, but we’ll see. I’m starting book 2 asap.
“My darling, it’s only been ten minutes and you’ve already asked me to hurt you,”
Also, don’t let the cover fool you. It’s not similar to the plated prisoner series IMO, other than the FMC being a courtesan and the MMC being a king. Unlesss…👀 I’M WATCHING YOU, BRIGGS.
*Just making a note that the MMC is also banging his other women while he’s with the FMC. I know that won’t be for some of you, but with the fantasy/historical romance vibes it really didn’t bother me.
Read if you enjoy:
🖤 Dark Fantasy Romance
🖤 BDSM
🖤 Dual POV
Be sure to check the TW before reading!
“There you are, Little Raven…”
Okay, so I really enjoyed this book but at the same time not a lot happened?? I think things are about to go down in book 2 though.
I loved King Burke as a dom, but idkkk something about him is FISHY TO ME!! 👃And I could totally be wrong, but we’ll see. I’m starting book 2 asap.
“My darling, it’s only been ten minutes and you’ve already asked me to hurt you,”
Also, don’t let the cover fool you. It’s not similar to the plated prisoner series IMO, other than the FMC being a courtesan and the MMC being a king. Unlesss…👀 I’M WATCHING YOU, BRIGGS.
*Just making a note that the MMC is also banging his other women while he’s with the FMC. I know that won’t be for some of you, but with the fantasy/historical romance vibes it really didn’t bother me.
Read if you enjoy:
🖤 Dark Fantasy Romance
🖤 BDSM
🖤 Dual POV
Be sure to check the TW before reading!
September 20, 2022
This was my first ever Beta read. I was TERRIFIED to read someone else’s book with the intent to give feedback and critique.. but June made it such an amazing experience.
I was nervous I wouldn’t like it… & would have to tell her that lol.. but rest easy.. I really enjoyed it! I enjoyed it so much that I also beta read the second book!!
I had to go back & look at my notes buttt I remember one very hot & spicy scene that I couldn’t get out of my mind!
This book has very similar vibes to the plated prisoner series.
I was nervous I wouldn’t like it… & would have to tell her that lol.. but rest easy.. I really enjoyed it! I enjoyed it so much that I also beta read the second book!!
I had to go back & look at my notes buttt I remember one very hot & spicy scene that I couldn’t get out of my mind!
This book has very similar vibes to the plated prisoner series.
September 13, 2022
Reyah had always dreamed of making a life for herself. To leave her family behind and prove them wrong. But unfortunately, things hadn't gone as planned. Reyah found herself working in a brothel making ends meet by slowly saving up what little money she could. But when a lady from the Palace comes to recruit new women for the kings, Reyah finally feels like she is catching her big break. Little does she know about the tests she is soon going to soon face.
⚠️The King will have multiple partners but this is NOT a why choose romance. ⚠️
⚠️The King will have multiple partners but this is NOT a why choose romance. ⚠️
April 28, 2023
Good read. Definitely will be reading the next one in the series to see what happens next. 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5 spice in this one! A little too much Fallacio for my liking but if you’re into that you will LOVE this book. Enough mystery about things to keep my interest peaked and to read on.
September 5, 2022
Omg I loved this book so much, I literally got in from work tonight and just read for 3 hours to finish it because I couldn’t put it down. I love a good dark romance and it was so nice to read one with this regal twist. It’s so hard not to just adore the main characters (and of course Nyx, because who doesn’t love a side character that has all the importance of an mc?!). I can’t wait for the 2nd and 3rd books to be released as I *need* more of Reyah and Kas’s story! This book will send you on a bit of a rollercoaster and is definitely worth every second of the time you will spend reading it!
I received an ARC of the book from the author, in exchange for an honest review.
I received an ARC of the book from the author, in exchange for an honest review.
September 8, 2022
I got to read Thicker than Gold before the release date though book funnel, and good gods did I DEVOUR it! The book holds you captive from the very beginning and I really had a hard time putting it down and regretted my choice to start it at 7pm (not a wise choice on a work or school night) needless to say my morning was spent with 3 coffees and kindle stuck to my face finishing it before I started my work day.
The spicy parts of the book are perfect and well written. Not half arsed like some books which BDSM+ in it which makes me super happy.
The relationship between Burke and Reyah led me to think something more than just their current situation was going to become more than it was. He always seemed to have more of a soft spot for her. I was surprised that The Queen died but then again not if that makes any sense. Reyah also seem to have a secret that’s causing her all that guilt towards the end of the book and I have a prediction as to why but I guess time will tell.
All in all 5/5 and highly recommended.
All thoughts and feeling in this review are my own and written with honesty.
The spicy parts of the book are perfect and well written. Not half arsed like some books which BDSM+ in it which makes me super happy.
The relationship between Burke and Reyah led me to think something more than just their current situation was going to become more than it was. He always seemed to have more of a soft spot for her. I was surprised that The Queen died but then again not if that makes any sense. Reyah also seem to have a secret that’s causing her all that guilt towards the end of the book and I have a prediction as to why but I guess time will tell.
All in all 5/5 and highly recommended.
All thoughts and feeling in this review are my own and written with honesty.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 14, 2024
This needed waaaayyyyy more editing. There were grammatical and developmental issues that make this difficult to read. It truly reads like a character sketch you might do in a creative writing class. The plot is non-existent until the very end where it then has the utter gall to end in a cliffhanger. This is blatant reader betrayal and I do not take kindly to it.
I give the author props for not falling into the usual stereotypes of sex work and workers. The end result however being that the culture surrounding sex was very difficult to understand. Are people shamed or not for being sex workers? What happens to them when they retire? If everyone knows the kings have sex workers why was it such a big deal for the FMC to see the queen? Really, no one has ever gotten pregnant before, you expect me to believe this? I guess our FMC has the deluxe Cadillac puss, lol.
This confusing world building spilled over in so many areas and I was disappointed when there was no court intrigue, no intrigue among the sex workers, or really any intrigue at all. So many wasted opportunities to develop interesting politics or something along those lines, but alas this is never really developed.
P.S.
It is spelled ‘taut’ not ‘taught’. And ‘shawl’ not ‘shall’. There were more terrible homophone misspellings but those were like nails on a chalkboard. And this book supposedly had an editor?
I give the author props for not falling into the usual stereotypes of sex work and workers. The end result however being that the culture surrounding sex was very difficult to understand. Are people shamed or not for being sex workers? What happens to them when they retire? If everyone knows the kings have sex workers why was it such a big deal for the FMC to see the queen? Really, no one has ever gotten pregnant before, you expect me to believe this? I guess our FMC has the deluxe Cadillac puss, lol.
This confusing world building spilled over in so many areas and I was disappointed when there was no court intrigue, no intrigue among the sex workers, or really any intrigue at all. So many wasted opportunities to develop interesting politics or something along those lines, but alas this is never really developed.
P.S.
It is spelled ‘taut’ not ‘taught’. And ‘shawl’ not ‘shall’. There were more terrible homophone misspellings but those were like nails on a chalkboard. And this book supposedly had an editor?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 4, 2022
I received the book from the author June Harding in exchange for my honest opinion and a step in the process of receiving book 2 as an ARC (which will be out sometime in November). *definitely crossing my fingers to get it as I am hooked and need to know what will happen next, despite my 3 stars rating which I will get into shortly.)
Totally loved and appreciated the mention of the trigger warnings from the get-go before delving in the book.
Reyah the main character, loved her and her empathy, her strength and sense of adventure.
Bruke I liked him but not as much, he was gentle and easily likable but my issue is I needed more of his POV as a king. I needed to see him as a king.
The relationship between Reyah and Bruke.. it didn’t give me butterflies, I sensed the chemistry at some instances but needed more.
Loved Nyx so much and how good of a bestie he is becoming.
The spiciness level is on point 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
I have a nagging feeling that there is more to Reyah or so I am hoping.
I guess with books in different lands I aways want maps.
There were some spelling mistakes, typo errors and mistakes with pronouns. I guess the proofreader and editor needed to do a better job.
But overall an amazing debut novel and looks forward for more from June Harding
Totally loved and appreciated the mention of the trigger warnings from the get-go before delving in the book.
Reyah the main character, loved her and her empathy, her strength and sense of adventure.
Bruke I liked him but not as much, he was gentle and easily likable but my issue is I needed more of his POV as a king. I needed to see him as a king.
The relationship between Reyah and Bruke.. it didn’t give me butterflies, I sensed the chemistry at some instances but needed more.
Loved Nyx so much and how good of a bestie he is becoming.
The spiciness level is on point 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
I have a nagging feeling that there is more to Reyah or so I am hoping.
I guess with books in different lands I aways want maps.
There were some spelling mistakes, typo errors and mistakes with pronouns. I guess the proofreader and editor needed to do a better job.
But overall an amazing debut novel and looks forward for more from June Harding
September 27, 2022
I was given an opportunity to read an arc of this for an honest review! It was amazing and absolutely fantastic first novel. It had everything I could want and more! Can’t wait for the next book to find out what happens.
September 5, 2022
A spicy fantasy with well flushed out characters. Cannot wait to see where the story goes. Sexy, Sexy, Sexy and has twists and turns you do not see coming. Dont know where June Harding came from but if this is her first book I cannot wait to see where she goes from here. A true talent. Bravo!
June 19, 2024
3.5 ⭐ only because of the last 30% which was very good! The first 70% can be summed up in one sentence: Sex worker learns BDSM from a King. Honestly you could read the first two chapters, skip ahead, then read ch 25 to the end and be perfectly fine with the story!
November 24, 2022
What I liked:
-It’s definitely spicy
-I think it’s a solid book from a first time writer and I’m game to read more, but I have more questions from this book than I have answers.
-I liked the dynamic between Nyx and Reyeh even if I didn’t fully understand it.
What I struggled with:
-Way too many exclamation points. They were everywhere.
-There just didn’t seem to be much intrigue - I wanted more political intrigue, more plot, more dynamics. I just wanted more. Even the scenes where there’s a sense of her going against the status quo, I didn’t understand why anything was so controversial. The sense of urgency wasn’t there for me to understand the context.
-I need to know more about Reyeh. I know she likes to read, that she has great skin, she’s been in the business for 2 years, but other than that? Nothing. She’s meek and mild and tries to go against the status quo, but not really. She’s very content to stay as is. She tries to protect her friends but won’t really explain why to them. What I want to know is more about her family, more about how she got to where she is, what has her experience been like with men and/or women non-binary, etc?
-I need more from the world it’s just not fully fleshed out:
-Who are the Kings and why are they Kings? Why are there multiples?
-Why can they essentially have a harem?
-Are these women shamed in society? Are they shamed like they are in our world or is it different in this world?
-Do they make money doing this outside of the palace?
-I need more about the past Kings and future Kings and other nations.
-There needed to be more political intrigue given the setting.
-If we’re leaning into more BDSM type scenes (which I’m totally game for) then are there more people in that world? Where did Burke learn it? How did he discover he liked that? Why does he do it? Is there a secret club?
-Also, what does Burke actually do? You see him shmoozing but I want the information, I want the politics.
-It’s definitely spicy
-I think it’s a solid book from a first time writer and I’m game to read more, but I have more questions from this book than I have answers.
-I liked the dynamic between Nyx and Reyeh even if I didn’t fully understand it.
What I struggled with:
-Way too many exclamation points. They were everywhere.
-There just didn’t seem to be much intrigue - I wanted more political intrigue, more plot, more dynamics. I just wanted more. Even the scenes where there’s a sense of her going against the status quo, I didn’t understand why anything was so controversial. The sense of urgency wasn’t there for me to understand the context.
-I need to know more about Reyeh. I know she likes to read, that she has great skin, she’s been in the business for 2 years, but other than that? Nothing. She’s meek and mild and tries to go against the status quo, but not really. She’s very content to stay as is. She tries to protect her friends but won’t really explain why to them. What I want to know is more about her family, more about how she got to where she is, what has her experience been like with men and/or women non-binary, etc?
-I need more from the world it’s just not fully fleshed out:
-Who are the Kings and why are they Kings? Why are there multiples?
-Why can they essentially have a harem?
-Are these women shamed in society? Are they shamed like they are in our world or is it different in this world?
-Do they make money doing this outside of the palace?
-I need more about the past Kings and future Kings and other nations.
-There needed to be more political intrigue given the setting.
-If we’re leaning into more BDSM type scenes (which I’m totally game for) then are there more people in that world? Where did Burke learn it? How did he discover he liked that? Why does he do it? Is there a secret club?
-Also, what does Burke actually do? You see him shmoozing but I want the information, I want the politics.
September 22, 2022
This is an arc review but all opinions are my own.
I wouldn’t say this is your typical romance book, it’s a historical book about an escort and a king. I found the plot very unique and intriguing as it’s not something I usually read. I even ended up reading this all in one day.
I had zero expectations of this book going into it and didn’t really know what tropes would be in it. The hero is married and there is other women although I wouldn’t class this as cheating as they were never exclusive however I understand some people wouldn’t enjoy this. So I would only read if you’re open minded to this style of relationship.
I also enjoyed the male side character and found him very intriguing and funny.
My only issue was I didn’t really feel much chemistry between the two mc and would have liked to have seen them bond together more. Although I understand this is going to be a trilogy so this is a great start up book for the others. I also enjoyed the smut.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
Historical
Escort X king
Married hero
OW
Bdsm
Bondage
Spit
I wouldn’t say this is your typical romance book, it’s a historical book about an escort and a king. I found the plot very unique and intriguing as it’s not something I usually read. I even ended up reading this all in one day.
I had zero expectations of this book going into it and didn’t really know what tropes would be in it. The hero is married and there is other women although I wouldn’t class this as cheating as they were never exclusive however I understand some people wouldn’t enjoy this. So I would only read if you’re open minded to this style of relationship.
I also enjoyed the male side character and found him very intriguing and funny.
My only issue was I didn’t really feel much chemistry between the two mc and would have liked to have seen them bond together more. Although I understand this is going to be a trilogy so this is a great start up book for the others. I also enjoyed the smut.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
Historical
Escort X king
Married hero
OW
Bdsm
Bondage
Spit
September 27, 2022
I really enjoyed this book! It’s a wonderful introduction to a new world that promises to be filled with drama and political intrigue.
Reyah is working in a city cat house when people from the castle come to select some concubines to interview for a permanent position at the palace. She goes with them but has no idea which of the 4 kings she will be auditioning for…
Burke is a wonderfully dynamic king with a fascination for power play and he is enamoured with Reyah at first glance and eager to conquer her.
You would think this is your typical king meets concubine, king falls in love with concubine, concubine falls in love with king romance… but it’s not.
This is novel that introduces you to a new world, starts you on the path of political intrigue and will not obey the standard romance rules and tropes… it feels like theres a lot more to come with this story and I’m here for it.
Reyah is working in a city cat house when people from the castle come to select some concubines to interview for a permanent position at the palace. She goes with them but has no idea which of the 4 kings she will be auditioning for…
Burke is a wonderfully dynamic king with a fascination for power play and he is enamoured with Reyah at first glance and eager to conquer her.
You would think this is your typical king meets concubine, king falls in love with concubine, concubine falls in love with king romance… but it’s not.
This is novel that introduces you to a new world, starts you on the path of political intrigue and will not obey the standard romance rules and tropes… it feels like theres a lot more to come with this story and I’m here for it.
September 15, 2022
3.5/5 ⭐️
2/5🌶
Reyah struggles with accepting the request of serving to the kings every desire. Upon meeting him she is pleased to find out he’s the calmer of the four kings and stays on to serve him. Every day is a gold coin she can use to help her family.
After awhile she starts to see things others don’t, while gaining the affections of the king she is serving.
But when a twist of fate steals Reyah’s choices will she stay on and serve the king in ways she never thought possible?
*
Dark romance with triggers, please read them before continuing the novel as some aspects are dark and heavy.
2/5🌶
Reyah struggles with accepting the request of serving to the kings every desire. Upon meeting him she is pleased to find out he’s the calmer of the four kings and stays on to serve him. Every day is a gold coin she can use to help her family.
After awhile she starts to see things others don’t, while gaining the affections of the king she is serving.
But when a twist of fate steals Reyah’s choices will she stay on and serve the king in ways she never thought possible?
*
Dark romance with triggers, please read them before continuing the novel as some aspects are dark and heavy.
September 27, 2022
This book is pretty wild.
It’s different than my normal reads. It was dark, yet had that old school almost Bridgerton/Fantasy feel to it. I love Reyah and her mysterious back story is gonna keep me reading these books. My mind was reeling with theories on her past, Briggs, and The Sisterhood.
I had a hard time with Burke and his harem. I was holding out hope that he wasn’t a dirty dog and maybe he wasn’t with all these women but even though I was wrong I still can’t help but feel for the man.
This book was honestly more realistic about the goings ons of Kings in the time it was based in.
I am excited for book 2 and I loved the spice.
It’s different than my normal reads. It was dark, yet had that old school almost Bridgerton/Fantasy feel to it. I love Reyah and her mysterious back story is gonna keep me reading these books. My mind was reeling with theories on her past, Briggs, and The Sisterhood.
I had a hard time with Burke and his harem. I was holding out hope that he wasn’t a dirty dog and maybe he wasn’t with all these women but even though I was wrong I still can’t help but feel for the man.
This book was honestly more realistic about the goings ons of Kings in the time it was based in.
I am excited for book 2 and I loved the spice.
April 4, 2023
Page turner!!! Took me about 3, 3 and a half hours from start to finish. Adored it 💛
January 12, 2025
18+ for sure. Very detailed and great story throughout for me!
January 9, 2023
I am an ARC reader for the final book in this series, but not this one.
I loved this book. Loved it as a fantasy novel, loved it as a spicy novel. Loved it as an introduction to BDSM (as opposed to an extremely popular mass marketed monochromatic series). After reading only the first book, I knew it would be a go to recommendation for anyone who is interested in dabbling in that kind of content.
I loved this book. Loved it as a fantasy novel, loved it as a spicy novel. Loved it as an introduction to BDSM (as opposed to an extremely popular mass marketed monochromatic series). After reading only the first book, I knew it would be a go to recommendation for anyone who is interested in dabbling in that kind of content.
December 15, 2022
I absolutely loved this book! The plot, the spice, the characters... all of it was so perfect. I could not put this book down it! It has a few TW to be aware of but everything was so well done!
Cannot wait to dive in book #2!
Cannot wait to dive in book #2!
September 17, 2022
Where do I even start with how much I loved this book. I want to leave a great review with so many details but I don’t want to spoil it before anyone else reads it. I got an ARC of this book and I was blown away at how much I enjoyed this book. The storyline and the spice is off the charts but it is also the writing I loved so much. This is June Harding’s debut novel and if I did not know that going in I never would have guessed it. She knows how to tell a story and how to drawl you in. Reyah are FMC is a strong determined woman who is sweet but also will fight for those she cares about. Burke is one of Kings in this world and is a fantastic MC. His bedroom skills are so spicy and written so well. It’s a deep drive into the BD$m lifestyle and it is done so respectfully. This is book one in a Trilogy so be prepared for that. Reyah gets a job at the place and meets Burke and her life is changed in so many ways. There connection is great but I don’t know if this is going to be your typical love story. I think there is a lot to still uncover. I can’t wait until book two.
January 11, 2023
Reyah a young woman in her early twenties was sent to the palace to be a kings consort. She normally is comfortable with her role but once she finds out she is to be a kings consort with a bunch of rules and hearing some of the kings sexual preferences. She is frightened and sure about it. She learns more about herself and what she actually enjoys and can handle. I just love her!! She has a big heart and cares about those she is close to.
I also love King Burke. He cares deeply for this family. All his ladies in the that he has relations with. He wouldn’t do anything they the ladies aren’t comfortable with. He you feel for him with his losses and can tell he has a big heart.
I was hooked to this book right away! I started and finished this book in one day! I was always fantasized with the time periods these these type of stories take place. I can’t wait for the next book!
I also love King Burke. He cares deeply for this family. All his ladies in the that he has relations with. He wouldn’t do anything they the ladies aren’t comfortable with. He you feel for him with his losses and can tell he has a big heart.
I was hooked to this book right away! I started and finished this book in one day! I was always fantasized with the time periods these these type of stories take place. I can’t wait for the next book!
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