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.