Early Review: Nameless Queen by Rebecca McLaughlin (@McRebecky)

Nameless Queen

Author: Rebecca McLaughlin

Release Date: January 7, 2019

Publisher: Crown Books for Young Readers

ISBN: 1524700266

ISBN13: 9781524700263

Genre: YA Fantasy

Review Copy Source: NetGalley

One girl must make a name for herself--or die trying --in this royal fantasy where an unknown peasant becomes the ultimate ruler. But how long can she keep the crown if everyone wants her dead? Perfect for fans of Furyborn, Red Queen, and Everless.

Everyone expected the king's daughter would inherit the throne. No one expected me.

It shouldn't even be possible. I'm Nameless, a class of citizens so disrespected, we don't even get names. Heck, dozens of us have been going missing for months and no one seems to care.

But there's no denying the tattoo emblazoned on my arm. I am queen. In a palace where the corridors are more dangerous the streets, though, how could I possibly rule? And what will become of the Nameless if I don't?

NAMELESS QUEEN fell in the middle for me. I enjoyed the overall storyline and the characters, but it was lacking the depth that I was looking for.

I enjoyed the characters. There was a wide array of characters in NAMELESS QUEEN. I liked that they found stuff in common even with their varied backgrounds and were able to work together to achieve their overall goals. The pacing was good, I never found myself bored.

The world building is very basic. We get small tidbits of things, but no real details. Nothing really shocked me in NAMELESS QUEEN. There was a bit of mystery as how Coin got to be in her new position, but I guessed it before it was revealed.

I don't regret reading NAMELESS QUEEN and would probably read more in this world if the author ever decided to delve further in. 

I gave it 3/5 stars

* This book was provided free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Review: Rage by Cora Carmack (@CoraCarmack, @torteen)

Rage

Author: Cora Carmack

Release Date: August 27, 2019

Publisher: Tor Teen

Stormheart Book #2

ISBN:  0765386364

ISBN13: 9780765386366

Genre: YA Fantasy

Review Copy Source: Edelweiss

Princess or adventurer.

Duty or freedom.

Her Kingdom or the Stormhunter she loves.

If Aurora knows anything, it's that choices have consequences. To set things right, she joins a growing revolution on the streets of Pavan.

In disguise as the rebel Roar, she puts her knowledge of the palace to use to aid the rebellion. But the Rage season is at its peak and not a day passes without the skies raining down destruction. Yet these storms are different—they churn with darkness, and attack with a will that’s desperate and violent.

This feels like more than rage.

It feels like war.

It had been a while since I read book one, ROAR, so it took me a little bit to get back into the story.

What I liked....
- Still love the characters.
- Aurora's real identity comes out into the open.
- Some great action moments.
- Great ending.

What could have been better....
- It was a bit slow at times
- I didn't always love the switch in POV's.
- There wasn't a ton of surprises when it came to the plot. Kinda easy to figure out where things were going.

My likes outweighed my dislikes and RAGE was an enjoyable read. REIGN is on my wishlist.

I gave it 3.5/5 stars

* This book was provided free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Quick Thought Review: A Treason of Thorns by Laura E. Weymouth (@lauraeweymouth, @harperteen)

A Treason of Thorns

Author: Laura E. Weymouth

Release Date: September 10, 2019

Publisher: HarperTeen1

ISBN:  0062696920

ISBN13: 9780062696922

Genre: Young Adult Fantasy

Review Copy Source: Edelweiss

Violet Sterling has spent the last seven years in exile, longing to return to Burleigh House. One of the six great houses of England, Burleigh’s magic always kept the countryside well. And as a child, this magic kept Violet happy, draping her in flowers while she slept, fashioning secret hiding places for her, and lighting fires on the coldest nights to keep her warm.

Everything shattered, though, when her father committed high treason trying to free Burleigh from the king’s oppressive control. He was killed, and Vi was forced into hiding.

When she’s given a chance to go back, she discovers Burleigh has run wild with grief. Vines and briars are crumbling the walls. Magic that once enriched the surrounding countryside has turned dark and deadly, twisting lush blooms into thorns, poisoning livestock and destroying crops. Burleigh’s very soul is crying out in pain.

Vi would do anything to help, and soon she finds herself walking the same deadly path as her father all those years before. Vi must decide how far she’s willing to go to save her house—before her house destroys everything she’s ever known.

Content warnings are available via the author's website.

The concept of A TREASON OF THORNS is what drew me to read it, but the story didn't blow me away. 

I liked Violet, I liked the storyline, and I enjoyed the secondary characters. A TREASON OF THORNS was a decent read, but I would have liked more out of it. Maybe world-building could have been a little stronger? Maybe a shorter read or more happening within the lengthy pages?

I am not disappointed that I read A TREASON OF THORNS, but if there happened to be more books after this, I probably wouldn't read it.

I gave it 3/5 stars

* This book was provided free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Review: Serpent & Dove by Shelby Mahurin (@shelbymahurin, @harperteen)

Serpent & Dove

Author: Shelby Mahurin

Release Date: September 3, 2019

Publisher: HarperTeen

Serpent and Dove Book #1

ISBN:  0062878026

ISBN13: 9780062878021

Genre: YA Fantasy

Review Copy Source: Edewleiss

Bound as one to love, honor, or burn.

Two years ago, Louise le Blanc fled her coven and took shelter in the city of Cesarine, forsaking all magic and living off whatever she could steal. There, witches like Lou are hunted. They are feared. And they are burned.

Sworn to the Church as a Chasseur, Reid Diggory has lived his life by one principle: thou shalt not suffer a witch to live. His path was never meant to cross with Lou's, but a wicked stunt forces them into an impossible union—holy matrimony.

The war between witches and Church is an ancient one, and Lou's most dangerous enemies bring a fate worse than fire. Unable to ignore her growing feelings, yet powerless to change what she is, a choice must be made.

And love makes fools of us all.

I very much enjoyed the whole story behind SERPENT AND DOVE.

The characters in SERPENT AND DOVE, definitely make the story strong. Lou was strong, smart and independent. Reid is an interesting character, but hard to read most of the time. I had a love/hate relationship throughout the book due to his beliefs, but going through the motion of learning about him, you understand where his prejudice is coming from and why. He doesn't quite live up to the man I thought he should be until it's almost too late. Lou and Reid are NOT in love, they don't even LIKE each other. They are forced together and tolerate each other for most of the book as they slowly learn to coexist, then like, then respect, then more.

Lou and Coco's friendship is awesome! There is nothing like a bestie that has your back no matter what life throws at you.

I had no trouble falling into the emotions of the story. I was heartbroken right alongside Lou at times and joyous at others. The world building wasn't the strongest aspect of the book, but the characters and their story make up for it in my opinion.

I plan to read book two.

I gave it 4/5 stars

* This book was provided free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Review: Realm of Knights by Jennifer Anne Davis (@AuthorJennifer, @ReignPublishing)

Realm of Knights

Author: Jennifer Anne Davis

Release Date: September 10, 2019

Publisher: Reign Publishing

Knights of the Realm Book #1

ISBN:  1732366152

ISBN13: 9781732366152

Genre: Young Adult Fantasy

Review Copy Source: NetGalley

Reid has spent her whole life pretending to be a man so she can inherit her father’s estate, but when a chance encounter threatens to expose her lie, she is forced to risk everything.

In the kingdom of Marsden, women are subservient to men and land can only pass from father to son. So when Reid Ellington is born, the fifth daughter to one of the wealthiest landholders in the kingdom, it’s announced that Reid is a boy.

Eighteen years later, Reid struggles to conceal the fact she’s actually a young woman. Every day, her secret becomes harder to keep. When one of Marsden’s princes sees her sparring with a sword, she is forced to accept his offer and lead her father’s soldiers to the border. Along the way, she discovers a covert organization within the army known as the Knights of the Realm. If Reid wants to save her family from being arrested for treason and robbed of their inheritance, she will have to join the Knights and become a weapon for the crown.

To protect her family, Reid must fight like a man. To do that, she’ll need the courage of a woman.

Why did I wait so long to read this?

I really liked Reid. She is in a bit of an identity crisis for most of the book, but she is super strong throughout all of it. She is extremely loyal and willing to do everything she can to protect her family, even at the expense of herself. I just really liked her and had no problem falling into her head as her story progressed.

The whole story has a great pace. I was never bored or wishing things would happen faster or slower. The world building was well done and I was constantly surprised at the events that took place.

There was a little bit of romance that added a good amount of tension, but it didn't take over the story. I can totally see Reid and this character together, but I don't see how that could possibly happen. I am hoping that Reid falls for a certain someone that she is on the way to meet at the end of the book.

I want more and I'm counting down the days until SHADOW KNIGHTS releases.

I gave it 4/5 stars

* This book was provided free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Quick Thought Review: The Blacksmith Queen by G.A. Aiken (@KensingtonBooks)

The Blacksmiths Queen

Author: G.A. Aiken

Release Date: August 27, 2019

Publisher: Kensington

The Scarred Earth Saga Book #1

ISBN:  0765328089 

ISBN13: 9780765328083

Genre: Fantasy

Review Copy Source: NetGalley

When a prophesy brings war to the Land of the Black Hills, Keeley Smythe must join forces with a clan of mountain warriors who are really centaurs in a thrilling new fantasy romance series from New York Times bestselling author G.A. Aiken.  
The Old King Is Dead
 
With the demise of the Old King, there’s a prophesy that a queen will ascend to the throne of the Black Hills. Bad news for the king’s sons, who are prepared to defend their birthright against all comers. But for blacksmith Keeley Smythe, war is great for business. Until it looks like the chosen queen will be Beatrix, her younger sister. Now it’s all Keeley can do to protect her family from the enraged royals.

Luckily, Keeley doesn’t have to fight alone. Because thundering to her aid comes a clan of kilt-wearing mountain warriors called the Amichai. Not the most socially adept group, but soldiers have never bothered Keeley, and rough, gruff Caid, actually seems to respect her. A good thing because the fierce warrior will be by her side for a much longer ride than any prophesy ever envisioned …

Strong characters, action packed storyline, betrayal, fantasy and a little romance make THE BLACKSMITH QUEEN a well rounded story.

I loved Keeley's drive to do what's best for and protect her family. The world was full of interesting characters and creatures. I enjoyed the secondary characters and the way that they fit into the story.

Count me in for book two.

I gave it 4/5 stars

* This book was provided free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Review: Shadow Weaver by Debbie Cassidy (@amoscassidy)

Shadow Weaver

Author: Debbie Cassidy

Release Date: October 10, 2019

Publisher: Self-Published

The Nightwatch Academy Book #2

ASIN:  B07VK9WY19

Genre: Fantasy RH

Review Copy Source: Author

They say, there’s no rest for the wicked. In that case I must be pure evil.

When Hyde said the cadets would be getting Fast Tracked, he wasn’t joking.

It’s hard staying on top of the shadow cadet duties, but I’m not one to shy from a challenge. However, just when I think I’ve got a hold on my abilities and found my niche at the Academy, the principal throws a curveball my way.

Suddenly I’m drowning in painful revelations and more tasks. The one person I want to run to turns his back on me, and comfort comes from an unexpected source.

But the equilibrium is short lived because the silence of the mist is about to be shattered, and when it does, no one is safe.

It’s our job to protect the Academy grounds, but when danger rides the sky, who in the hell is going to save us?

The Vampire Academy meets Game of Thrones in this kick-ass, supernatural academy, Urban Fantasy with a slow burn Why Choose Romance.

Action, suspense, twists, turns and a little bit of romance are all part of the second book in The Nightwatch Academy series by Debbie Cassidy.

I continue to really enjoy the world that the series is set in.  Debbie has done a great job bringing it to life with her words and I look forward to seeing what she incorporates into the story next.

The romance is slow burn, but I am enjoying the development between Indigo and her men. Very interested in seeing who she adds to her harem next as I am not 100% sure who it will be.

I always enjoy the first book in a new series by Debbie Cassidy, but it has been a little bit since I have thought that the second book in the series lived up to the first. SHADOW WEAVER was just as exciting and enjoyable to me as SHADOW CASTER was and that gives me great hopes that the rest of the series will keep me entertained as well.

I gave it 4/5 stars

* This book was provided free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Review: Shadow Frost by Coco Ma (@CHAOSFORCOCO, @BlackstoneAudio)

Shadow Frost

Author: CoCo Ma

Release Date: October 1, 2019

Publisher: Blackstone Publishing

Shadow Frost Book #1

ISBN:  1982527447  

ISBN13: 9781982527440

Genre: Young Adult Fantasy

Review Copy Source: NetGalley

IN THE KINGDOM OF AXARIA, a darkness rises.

Some call it a monster, laying waste to the villagers and their homes.
Some say it is an invulnerable demon summoned from the deepest abysses of the Immortal Realm.
Many soldiers from the royal guard are sent out to hunt it down.

Not one has ever returned.

When Asterin Faelenhart, Princess of Axaria and heir to the throne, discovers that she may hold the key to defeating the mysterious demon terrorizing her kingdom, she vows not to rest until the beast is slain. With the help of her friends and the powers she wields — though has yet to fully understand — Asterin sets out to complete a single task. The task that countless, trained soldiers have failed.

To kill it.

But as they hunt for the demon, they unearth a plot to assassinate the Princess herself instead. Asterin and her companions begin to wonder how much of their lives have been lies, especially when they realize that the center of the web of deceit might very well be themselves. With no one else to turn to, they are forced to decide just how much they are willing to sacrifice to protect the only world they have ever known.

That is, of course… if the demon doesn’t get to them first.

From young author Coco Ma comes a dazzling new tale of adventure, power, and betrayal, weaving together a stunning world of magic with a killer cast in an explosive, unforgettable debut.

SHADOW FROST was an entertaining read, with a wide cast of characters and a world that was more vast than I could have imagined.

There are quite a few characters in SHADOW FROST that are a big part of the story. Some seem inconsequential and end up being way more important to things than you thought. There is a bit of a romance involved. For a bit, I thought there would be a love triangle, but thankfully that does not happen.

There were some crazy and shocking twists thrown at us. I didn't see them coming, and the consequences of the events that preceded them surprised me.  The world was easy to get lost in and the pace flowed nicely.

There were some small things that I wished would have been better with SHADOW FROST. I wish there would have been some more character development before everyone became such close friends. I also felt like the age of the characters wasn't always represented with their behavior. There were few cringe worthy romance moments, but knowing the author wrote the story at 15 kinda makes me understand the way some things played out.

My issues with the story weren't strong enough to put me off the story. I am definitely interested in reading more.

I gave it 3.5/5 stars

* This book was provided free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Quick Thought Review: The Memory Thief by Lauren Mansy (@LaurenMansy, @BlinkYABooks)

Sometimes I read a book where I just don't have a lot to say about it. Hence the name quick thought reviews. This will be short and sweet.

The Memory Thief

Author: Lauren Mansy

Release Date: October 1, 2019

Publisher: Blink

ISBN: 0310767652

ISBN13: 9780310767657

Genre: Young Adult Fantasy

Review Copy Source: NetGalley

In the city of Craewick, memories reign. The power-obsessed ruler of the city, Madame, has cultivated a society in which memories are currency, citizens are divided by ability, and Gifted individuals can take memories from others through touch as they please.

Seventeen-year-old Etta Lark is desperate to live outside of the corrupt culture, but grapples with the guilt of an accident that has left her mother bedridden in the city’s asylum. When Madame threatens to put her mother up for auction, a Craewick practice in which a “criminal's" memories are sold to the highest bidder before being killed, Etta will do whatever it takes to save her. Even if it means rejoining the Shadows, the rebel group she swore off in the wake of the accident years earlier.

To prove her allegiance to the Shadows and rescue her mother, Etta must steal a memorized map of the Maze, a formidable prison created by the bloodthirsty ruler of a neighboring Realm. So she sets out on a journey in which she faces startling attacks, unexpected romance, and, above all, her own past in order to set things right in her world.

I really enjoyed the overall plot of THE MEMORY THIEF.

There were some neat revelations and surprises throughout the story, the world was interesting and I Enjoyed the characters.

The romance was meh. I am not a fan of the insta-love with no real build up. Etta goes from not trusting Reid to trusting him with her life in a snap. My biggest issue with THE MEMORY THIEF was the pacing. Seems to go from a nice pace with buildup to way too fast towards the end and through the major showdown.

I enjoyed the overall story and would read more in this world if more books were written.

I gave it 3/5 stars

* This book was provided free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Quick Thought Review: Shadow Caster by Debbie Cassidy (@amoscassidy)

Sometimes I read a book where I just don't have a lot to say about it. Hence the name quick thought reviews. This will be short and sweet.

Shadow Caster

Author: Debbie Cassidy

Release Date: September 10, 2019

Publisher: Self-Published

The Nightwatch Academy Book #1

ASIN: B07T2F6C64

Genre: Fantasy Reverse Harem

Review Copy Source: Author

Murdering humans is a huge no-no and comes with an off-with-your-head sentence. Doesn’t matter if you don’t remember doing the crime.

I killed a human, and no, it wasn’t on purpose, but that shit doesn’t matter to the council. I’m facing death. So, when I’m offered a deal to avoid execution, I’d be a fool not to take it, even if it means leaving the human world and urban life behind to enroll in the Nightwatch Academy – a gothic monstrosity hidden from human eyes, located way too close to the largest tear in the fabric of our reality.

It would be fun if I had any inclination of becoming a member of the Watch or supporting the shadow knights at keeping the Formorian threat at bay. But heck, the monsters beyond the mist aren’t my problem. I have personal demons to deal with.

Once I’m out, the Watch can shove it.But one sip from the ceremonial goblet and my plans to coast are out of the window as my powers spark to life.

I’m an anomaly, one the Watch won’t be letting walk any time soon.My only comfort is a man who prides himself on his ability to harness pain. Battle scarred and formidable, he’s my tutor, my mentor, and the object of some super saucy dreams. He’s completely off limits and my only hope of surviving my first test.

I’ll need to harness my powers fast.

There can be no distractions.But when my fellow cadets start going missing then returning with no memory of who they used to be and my best friend is taken, turning a blind eye is no longer an option.

Allies are limited when you’re a freak. Luckily, I don’t need a cheer squad to get shit done.  Whoever is responsible better watch out. I’m coming for them, and I’ll be bringing the pain.

The Vampire Academy meets Game of Thrones in this kick-ass, supernatural academy, Urban Fantasy Romance. 

Great plot, great world, great characters.

Indigo was kick-ass from the start so I wasn't surprised with how well she fit into her new role at Nightwatch Academy. Debbie is queen of the slow burn, slow reveal of her harem, so I am not positive on all those that will be included, but we do have some hints already with who will be Indigo's love interests. I enjoyed the world and the hints of what will come next.

There was a lot of action, some mystery and a smidgen of sexual tension involved in SHADOW CASTER.  I will definitely be reading more.

I gave it 4/5 stars

* This book was provided free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Review: Mirror Bound by Monica Sanz (@MonicaBSanz, @EntangledTeen)

Mirror Bound

Author: Monica Sanz

Release Date: September 10, 2019

Publisher: Entangled Teen

The Witchling Academy Book #1

ISBN:  1640637214

ISBN13: 9781640637214

Genre: Young Adult Fantasy

Review Copy Source: Publisher

Conspirator. Failure. Murderer.

Seraphina Dovetail is used to being called all these things. As the seventh-born daughter to a witch, and the cause of her mother losing both her powers and her life, Sera has always felt isolated. Until Nikolai Barrington.

The young professor not only took an interest in Sera—he took her into his home, hired her for his moonlighting detective agency, and gave her the one thing she’d always dreamed of: a chance. Under Barrington’s tutelage, Sera can finally take the School of Continuing Magic entrance exam to become an inspector and find her family. Now if only she could stop her growing attraction to her maddening boss—which is about as easy as this fiery elementalist quitting setting things on fire.

But when ghosts start dragging Sera into possessions so deep she can barely escape, and then the souls of lost witches and wizards appear trapped in mirrors, these two opposites will have to work together to uncover a much deeper secret that could destroy the Witchling world…

All Seraphina wants is to be a inspector, but she has to be accepted to take the exam and people are working to keep that from happening. Thankfully she has allies that are on her side, but its still a journey. 

It's been a little over a year since I read SEVENTH BORN, and I was scared that I wouldn't remember the story well enough to really enjoy MIRROR BOUND. Thankfully it all came back to me as I started reading.

Sera is a fighter. I love the way she has grown from the beginning of book one and I look forward to seeing what she will do in future books.

Sera and Barrington's relationship grows and evolves throughout MIRROR BOUND. It's very slow burn, but enjoyable and real in the way it happens. They were a great team without being in a romantic relationship, but their chemistry shined through in almost every scene and I am glad that they found their way to each other.

I enjoyed the plot of MIRROR BOUND. There was plenty of danger and mystery involved. The world is well built and I have enjoyed the addition of new characters. I especially love Sera's hellhound.

Hopefully we won't have to wait another year to read book three, but if so, I will gladly do it.  

I gave it 4/5 stars

* This book was provided free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Review: Crown of Coral and Pearl by Mara Rutherford (@mararaewrites, @HarlequinTEEN, @InkyardPress)

Crown of Coral and Pearl

Author: Mara Rutherford

Release Date: August 27, 2019

Publisher: Inkyard Press

Crown of Coral and Pearl Book #1

ISBN:  1335090444

ISBN13: 9781335090447

Genre: Young Adult Fantasy

Review Copy Source: Netgalley

For generations, the princes of Ilara have married the most beautiful maidens from the ocean village of Varenia. But though every girl longs to be chosen as the next princess, the cost of becoming royalty is higher than any of them could ever imagine…

Nor once dreamed of seeing the wondrous wealth and beauty of Ilara, the kingdom that’s ruled her village for as long as anyone can remember. But when a childhood accident left her with a permanent scar, it became clear that her identical twin sister, Zadie, would likely be chosen to marry the Crown Prince—while Nor remained behind, unable to ever set foot on land.

Then Zadie is gravely injured, and Nor is sent to Ilara in her place. To Nor’s dismay, her future husband, Prince Ceren, is as forbidding and cold as his home—a castle carved into a mountain and devoid of sunlight. And as she grows closer to Ceren’s brother, the charming Prince Talin, Nor uncovers startling truths about a failing royal bloodline, a murdered queen… and a plot to destroy the home she was once so eager to leave.

In order to save her people, Nor must learn to negotiate the treacherous protocols of a court where lies reign and obsession rules. But discovering her own formidable strength may be the one move that costs her everything: the crown, Varenia and Zadie.

I really enjoyed the idea of CROWN OF CORAL AND PEARL when I read the blurb and had no trouble getting into the story.

The storyline in book one of the Crown of Coral and Pearl series was unique. I really enjoyed the village that Nor lived in and I enjoyed learning about their days there. The bond between the sisters was strong and beautiful to watch. The land portion of the storyline wasn't my favorite location wise, but the pace did pick up some and a lot of danger was introduced.

I felt like the romance between Talin and Nor fell short. I wanted more development between the two. Their connection at first was really strong, but felt like there was more development between Nor and Ceren and that kinda sucks as he was the bad guy.

The ending didn't do much for me. Not a lot about it surprised me, it added more questions to other things I was waiting for answers too and just didn't feel like a smooth wrap up.

Although I didn't totally fall in love with CROWN OF CORAL AND PEARL I would still read more. I will be on the lookout for book two.

I gave it 3/5 stars

* This book was provided free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Quick Thought Review: Dead End by Debbie Cassidy (@amoscassidy)

Sometimes I read a book where I just don't have a lot to say about it. Hence the name quick thought reviews. This will be short and sweet.

Dead End

Author: Debbie Cassidy

Release Date: August 6, 2019

Publisher: Self-Published

Chronicles of Deadworld Book #4

ASIN:  B07SKCDHBS

Genre: Fantasy RH

Review Copy Source: Author

When death starts taking liberties, it’s time to fight back.

The council’s word means nothing to me. Their refusal to open their eyes no longer matters. I have a job to do and no one will get in my way.

Lie, cheat, deceive, I’ll do what it takes to save the people I love, and avenge the ones I’ve lost. I won’t be doing it alone. My guys are with me; by my side every step of the way.

No more excuses.

No more waiting.

We have a window to bring Genesis down. One shot. And I’m going to take it.

To heal a broken sword, you’ll have to forge it in fire. Bring on the flames.

A Post-Apocalyptic Urban Fantasy World with a slow blurn Whychoose Romance

Although short, each book in this series has been quickly paced and full of action.

I enjoyed the characters and storyline of this series. DEAD END ends things and leaves us content with the series ending. The harem is full of different men that work well together, but the romance isn't a main part of the storyline.

Why not a full 4 or 5 stars? There was something throughout the series that I had issues with and mentioned in previous reviews. It bothered me that it was never taken care of and I couldn't help think about it in each book when it wasn't resolved. DEAD END does address it a bit which was nice, but it still felt like an afterthought.

If you enjoy Cassidy's previous books, I would definitely give this series a shot.

I gave it 3.5/5 stars

* This book was provided free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Quick Thought Review: Kingdom of Exiles by Maxym Martineau (@maxymmckay, @SourcebooksCasa)

*Sometimes I read a book where I just don't have a lot to say about it. Hence the name quick thought reviews. This will be short and sweet.

Kingdom of Exiles

Author: Maxym M. Martineau

Release Date: June 25, 2019

Publisher: Sourcebook Casablanca

The Beast Charmer Book #1

ISBN:  1492689386

ISBN13: 9781492689386

Genre: Fantasy

Review Copy Source: NetGalley

Fantastic Beasts meets Assassin's Creed in this epic, gripping fantasy romance from debut author Maxym M. Martineau.

Exiled beast charmer Leena Edenfrell is in deep trouble. Empty pockets forced her to sell her beloved magical beasts on the black market—an offense punishable by death—and now there's a price on her head. With the realm's most talented murderer-for-hire nipping at her heels, Leena makes him an offer he can't refuse: powerful mythical creatures in exchange for her life.

If only it were that simple. Unbeknownst to Leena, the undying ones are bound by magic to complete their contracts, and Noc cannot risk his brotherhood of assassins...not even to save the woman he can no longer live without.

Great characters, great settings and a great story are all involved in the making of KINGDOM OF EXILES.

KINGDOM OF EXILES started off a little slow, but I had no problem getting into it with the great world building and action packed storyline. There was plenty of mystery and some romance as well. I really enjoyed learning about the different beasts and their roles in Leena's life. 

I will definitely read more.

I have it 4/5 stars

* This book was provided free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.