Book Review: "Cruel is My Court" by L.A. McGinnis

“Cruel is My Court” by L.A. McGinnis is the highly anticipated follow-up to “Savage is My Kingdom” - a steamy dark fantasy romance that touts elements of forbidden love, found family, morally gray men, enemies to lovers, reluctant heroes - and more! It’s an epic fantasy story that’s fast-paced and tells the story of two warring kings and the young woman who’s determined to find her place in the world, on her own terms.

“Cruel is My Court” finds Anaria and her rag-tag team of warriors in the center of the Oracle’s constant scheming and sinister plans; the Oracle wishes to use Anaria to release the old magic that was stripped from the lands long ago. Knowing how much her men and newfound mother, Adele, mean to Anaria, the Oracle uses Anaria’s loved ones to manipulate her into releasing the magic. Anaria is fighting on all fronts - first and most immediately with the Oracle, but also still with the warring kings who continue to look to Anaria as a means of their own personal gain. Despite countless attacks, setbacks, and surprising betrayals, Anaria can’t seem to catch a break.

This sequel also introduces us more thoroughly to the idea that Anaria and her four men are fated beyond the general timeline that they’re currently living - that they in fact have fought similar battles in a previous life before. The book also alludes to the fact that Anaria and her men will become the ultimate weapon once they’ve been thoroughly bonded. 

This book was everything I had hoped the sequel would be after completing devouring “Savage is My Kingdom.” It really has it all - it was captivating and fairly well-paced throughout the book. The narrative and plot exhibit intricacy and depth, showcasing exceptional world-building, multifaceted environments, and truly captivating characters. 

The characters are extremely well-written and I loved seeing them develop from the first book to the sequel - especially in terms of budding relationships between Anaria and both Zor and Tavion. (That darn illusive Tristan though - I feel he’ll get his day in the next book!) I also appreciated the detail to Tavion’s relationship with his father in this book, as I felt that was a major “aha” for the reasons behind some of Tavion’s behavior and general grumpiness half the time. 

“Cruel is My Court” was THE follow-up I was hoping for after reading the first book. It is an incredibly compelling and shadowy tale filled with action from the very beginning, incorporating elements of prophecy, enigma, and political intrigue. The characters are masterfully crafted, each bearing their own imperfections yet sharing a remarkable chemistry. The gradual development of a captivating “who choose” romance adds an extra layer of intrigue, complemented by brilliant plot twists and betrayals revealed, and an unforgettable cliffhanger at the conclusion of the novel.

Book Review: "On Silver Winds" by Ava Smiddy

“On Silver Winds” by Ava Smiddy is a fantasy reimagining of the classic tale of the Snow Queen with major “Frozen” vibes. The story follows Princess Adeline Beira, in the everwinter kingdom of Eisalaan, as she prepares for her 22nd birthday - a point where she will need to declare her intentions of pursuing her mother’s (the Snow Queen’s) throne or abdicate her title as Heir. Adeline’s older sister, Mareda, has already declared her intentions and is thrilled at the idea of Adeline - having no ambitions to follow in her cold mother’s (Queen Selma’s) footsteps - wanting to pursue a more quiet life outside of the palace.

However, the kingdom is thrown into upheaval when the 600-year-old King Kai emerges from the depths of the frozen lake. Adeline and her family quickly learn that Eisalaan is beginning to thaw, and her kingdom’s way of life is being threatened. As King Kai and his people are accepted into the throws of Queen Selma’s court, it seems that the lake is not the only thing that is beginning to thaw; Queen Selma begins to show a side of herself that has Adeline questioning her decision to bow out as an Heir. 

Amidst the family drama and the secrets King Kai is keeping, Adeline is tasked with training with the King. You know how things go from here - they train daily, getting to know each other, and the foundation of their feelings are cemented. 

Things come to a head when Adeline must decide where she fits in the grand scheme of things - and where she is going to make a difference with her people…even if that means it’s not by King Kai’s side.

This book was such a unique retelling of a beloved fairytale and was incredibly well-written for a first-time novel. I loved the court politics and the family drama - although I felt Mareda’s character could have been a little more front and center and developed. 

I absolutely love the slow burn romance between King Kai and Adeline. He falls in love with her and wants to protect her from the harms of the court (at the risk of his own kingdom and people), but also realizes she must stand on her own feet (and doesn’t try to damselize her). I did feel that their break-up scene was entirely forced and not necessary. 

The pacing was pretty decent - until the end. I reached the final chapters and I feel like a lot happened all at once…and that there wasn’t much in the way of closure for Adeline and the events that unfolded. Like, a decision is made and suddenly it’s the epilogue. I get that the epilogue provided some set-up for the next book in the duet, but I wish there had been more fight at the end.

Overall, I really enjoyed the book - so much so that I probably would have given it five stars had it not been for the breakneck speed of the ending. If you enjoy books that are steeped in folklore, examine royal politics and family drama, have its fair share of secrets and betrayal, and give the perfect amount of spice to thaw a frozen heart, you will want to check out Ava Smiddy’s “On Silver Winds.”

Book Review: "Off the Hook" by Julie Olivia

“Off the Hook” by Julie Olivia is a modern-day reimagining of the story of Peter Pan and Wendy. It follows Wendy Darling, a first grade teacher in Never Harbor, and the summer she has with new employer and long-time acquaintance, Jasper Davies. Wendy formerly dated Jasper’s younger brother, Peter, and has been assimilated into the Davies family, despite her broken-off engagement with Peter two years ago.

Desperate for a summer job to help with her rising rent costs, Wendy accepts employment as a nanny for Jasper’s six-year-old adopted son, Sam. As Wendy and Jasper spend more time together, sparks begin to fly between the Captain and his Wendy Bird.

I thought the characters were so wonderfully developed. Wendy is smart and kind, but also not afraid to fight for what she thinks is right. Jasper is quiet, emotional, and brooding half the time - but he’s a wonderful dad, full of imagination. I appreciated the fact that Jasper’s grief of losing his two best friends (and subsequently gaining his adoptive son) was also central in his development throughout the book.

Jasper and Wendy’s coupling was on fire from the start! They were both quietly drawn to each other and despite both acknowledging the fact that Peter was Jasper’s brother and Wendy’s ex-fiancee, it didn’t stop them from loving one another. The sneaking around, the stolen glances and touches, the forbidden aspect to their relationship was exciting - but I knew it would come to a head, and boy did it! The spice in the story was the perfect counterbalance to the engaging storyline - I mean, the scene at the swimming quarry where they sneak off?! 🔥🔥

I absolutely loved the Davies family dynamic and the idea that family isn’t always blood, as is the case with several of the Davies children - Wendy included. Despite having horrible biological parents, Wendy was accepted into the Davies family without judgment and loved unconditionally. Despite her dissolved engagement to Peter, Wendy remained friends with him and his crew of “Lost Boys,” his brothers and younger sister - even continuing to attend family dinner every Friday night.

I have read many Peter Pan retellings and I love this reimagined version of the classic tale! I cannot wait to see which Never Harbor pairing is next for the series!

Book Review: "Into the Skies" by Kay Humphreys

Into the Skies by Kay Humphreys follows twenty-one-year old Jaylyn living in the human realm below the Star Kingdom - a society of Fae living in their floating city in the sky above Jaylyn’s village. Humans are expected to serve Fae and are “placed” (assigned jobs) once they’ve come of age. Having never been deemed acceptable for placement, Jaylyn spends her days teaching her younger brothers and working in the village tavern.

A chance encounter with a Fae head hunter of sorts brings Jaylyn up to the Starlight Kingdom where she is asked to dance for the Fae court. After a mesmerizing performance, Jaylyn is informed that she’s been found worthy of placement and will take part in a ceremony. She’s placed under the watchful eye of grumpy, silent sentry Kal. Along the way, Jaylyn is enchanted by the Star Kingdom’s Prince Aster Raellen and after completing the ceremony, learns he’s her destined mate. However, Jaylyn also learns that she will never be allowed to marry the prince (as he’s expected to marry a royal), and she’ll be his fated “play thing.” 

Jaylyn is devastated but has little time to come to terms with her new reality before unforeseen circumstances take her away from Prince Aster and is swept away by Kal. A series of gripping events brings the pair closer together as they make their way - along with their new friends, Min and Goody - to safety. Jaylyn must fight the tug she feels inside herself to her “fated mate” while also struggling with her growing attraction and feelings for Kal.

I absolutely devoured this book! The world building was intricate and well-written. Despite a somewhat slow start to the book, it quickly built and then kept a great pace for the remainder of the novel. The characters in the book were relatable, engrossing and drew me deeper into the story. They had me laughing out loud, frustrated, and even produced some tears at certain points - everything a great novel should do! I loved Goody and Min’s addition to Kal and Jaylyn’s duo and the “found family” aspect to the plot. 

I won’t give away too many spoilers but I could not get enough of Jaylyn and Kal! When she has her “a-ha” moment about him - it is EVERYTHING! (Alright, mini spoiler - he’s ready to lay the world at her feet and his feelings had me in a grip the entire time!)

Into the Skies is the perfect dystopian, romantasy and will appeal to fans of ACOTAR (it was even giving mild The Giver vibes!). I am heartbroken that the sequel doesn’t come out until mid-February 2024, but I eagerly await the next chapter in Jaylyn and Kal’s story!