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A Throne of Pearls and Bones #1
The Soul in the Sword
For hundreds of years, the kingdom of Albion has worked to exterminate the fey, but when the Blight, an infection that turns ordinary people into monsters rears its head again, Princess Brianna ends up taking on the mantle of Celeste, an ancient fey warrior of legend.
Teaming up with an infamous thief known as the Red Wolf, Celeste begins a quest to rid her land of the Blight… all the while hiding her true identity from her father, who hates the fey and will stop at nothing to exterminate them.
Alliances will be made and broken, friendships tested and lost, and Brianna will find herself torn between two very different men—her sweet childhood crush, Prince Aidan, and her partner, the dashing Red Wolf.
Who may or may not be the same person.
Sworn to secrecy by a prediction that heralds death will come if they ever reveal their true identities, Brianna and Aidan seemed destined for heartbreak—
And the world doomed to destruction.
Teaming up with an infamous thief known as the Red Wolf, Celeste begins a quest to rid her land of the Blight… all the while hiding her true identity from her father, who hates the fey and will stop at nothing to exterminate them.
Alliances will be made and broken, friendships tested and lost, and Brianna will find herself torn between two very different men—her sweet childhood crush, Prince Aidan, and her partner, the dashing Red Wolf.
Who may or may not be the same person.
Sworn to secrecy by a prediction that heralds death will come if they ever reveal their true identities, Brianna and Aidan seemed destined for heartbreak—
And the world doomed to destruction.
420 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 1, 2023
20 people are currently reading
585 people want to read
About the author
Katherine Macdonald
37 books467 followersKatherine "Kate" Macdonald writes the books she wishes she could have read more of as a teen—stories of fierce girls and gentle boys, of romance and adventure, and where the "three Cs" (chemistry, communication and consent) reign supreme. There may still be a little bit of miscommunication along the way as the characters grow as people, but she tries not to rely on that trope too much!
She loves books packed with witty banter, stories where you can feel the love growing between a pair, that include excellent, well-developed side-characters and a few subtly-foreshadowed twists and turns. She despises toxic relationships and tales that rely on old-fashioned notions of male and female stereotypes. She enjoys bending expectations and crafting worlds where sexism is a thing of the past. She considers herself an LGBTQIA+ friendly author, and her stories include a range of characters from within the community and absolutely no discrimination in sight.
She holds a BA in English and Creative Writing from Lancaster University, and a PGCE in teaching English and Drama from the University of Exeter. She's been a writer since she was old enough to hold a crayon, but it was only after surviving a year of parenthood and a full-time job on less than six hours of sleep a night that she finally gained the courage to publish her debut novel, "The Rose and the Thorn." It's a retelling of Beauty and the Beast inspired by a dream of a girl surrounded by snow in a field of flowers.
At her heart, Macdonald is storyteller, and it is her dream to inspire others in the way that she has been inspired.
She lives in Devon with her manic child and well-behaved cats.
She loves books packed with witty banter, stories where you can feel the love growing between a pair, that include excellent, well-developed side-characters and a few subtly-foreshadowed twists and turns. She despises toxic relationships and tales that rely on old-fashioned notions of male and female stereotypes. She enjoys bending expectations and crafting worlds where sexism is a thing of the past. She considers herself an LGBTQIA+ friendly author, and her stories include a range of characters from within the community and absolutely no discrimination in sight.
She holds a BA in English and Creative Writing from Lancaster University, and a PGCE in teaching English and Drama from the University of Exeter. She's been a writer since she was old enough to hold a crayon, but it was only after surviving a year of parenthood and a full-time job on less than six hours of sleep a night that she finally gained the courage to publish her debut novel, "The Rose and the Thorn." It's a retelling of Beauty and the Beast inspired by a dream of a girl surrounded by snow in a field of flowers.
At her heart, Macdonald is storyteller, and it is her dream to inspire others in the way that she has been inspired.
She lives in Devon with her manic child and well-behaved cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
May 31, 2023
This was such a fun read! I adore all of the dramatic irony (as well as Red Wolf and his flirtatious, self-deprecating humor). I’m not well-versed in Arthurian Legend, but this story’s fascinating world-building has me eager to do some research to see what hints I missed. I very much look forward to continuing this series!
August 31, 2023
If you love the love square adorable awkwardness that is Miraculous Ladybug, I have no doubts that you will find enjoyment in these pages.
I can always trust that Macdonald will deliver a sweet romance with lovely prose and witty banter. This book is no exception. There are echoes of Miraculous Ladybug to be found in our two main characters, but Aiden and Brianna successfully stand on their own in this magical world where Fae and humans are at odds. I particularly loved Red Wolf/Aiden—he was the perfect amount of flirt-to-hide-the-hurt and I was living for it. I’m super excited to see what comes next!
I can always trust that Macdonald will deliver a sweet romance with lovely prose and witty banter. This book is no exception. There are echoes of Miraculous Ladybug to be found in our two main characters, but Aiden and Brianna successfully stand on their own in this magical world where Fae and humans are at odds. I particularly loved Red Wolf/Aiden—he was the perfect amount of flirt-to-hide-the-hurt and I was living for it. I’m super excited to see what comes next!
August 29, 2023
I received a free ARC of this book and am leaving a review voluntarily.
So, I haven’t read/seen either The Cruel Prince or Miraculous Ladybug which everyone is shouting this draws inspiration from. But after reading this book I might have to change that! It must be something special to have inspired such a brilliant story!
As always, the relationships are on point! And she’s wrangling multiple ones! Not just the one in the forefront but the alter egos of our couple have relationships without recognizing the other! It gave me “Jem and the Holograms” vibes.
As always, the banter is brilliant. Snarky and yet individual. It feels different from her other books, with a unique flavor which I always love to see. I’d gladly be a fly on the wall to just eavesdrop on conversations.
I loved playing “spot the Arthurian legend reference.” They’ve cleverly woven into the plot so you have to know what you’re looking for but that made me appreciate it all the more.
And some of these lines! “Home was a feeling I’d left behind in my childhood…I have not found it since.”
Take my heart, it’s okay…
So, I haven’t read/seen either The Cruel Prince or Miraculous Ladybug which everyone is shouting this draws inspiration from. But after reading this book I might have to change that! It must be something special to have inspired such a brilliant story!
As always, the relationships are on point! And she’s wrangling multiple ones! Not just the one in the forefront but the alter egos of our couple have relationships without recognizing the other! It gave me “Jem and the Holograms” vibes.
As always, the banter is brilliant. Snarky and yet individual. It feels different from her other books, with a unique flavor which I always love to see. I’d gladly be a fly on the wall to just eavesdrop on conversations.
I loved playing “spot the Arthurian legend reference.” They’ve cleverly woven into the plot so you have to know what you’re looking for but that made me appreciate it all the more.
And some of these lines! “Home was a feeling I’d left behind in my childhood…I have not found it since.”
Take my heart, it’s okay…
September 29, 2023
I love Miraculous Ladybug and the BBC’s Merlin, so reading a book that vibes SO MUCH with both was just *chef’s kiss*. I enjoyed every moment of Brianna/Celeste’s and Aiden/Red Wolf’s story, and am thoroughly looking forward the getting my hands on part two. I NEED that reveal! 😆
Great banter, strong friendships, and a delightfully frustrating love square. Five stars.
Great banter, strong friendships, and a delightfully frustrating love square. Five stars.
April 28, 2024
I’m absolutely obsessed with this story and it feels like it’s been too long since I have been. The feeling this book gave me when reading is the reason why I love to read <3 It’s a perfect mix between miraculous and the cruel prince with elements of Arthurian legend. I was absolutely gushing over the Red Wolf and Aidan and kicking my feet at the banter and flirting and tension between him and Brianna/Celeste - all of the 4 different dynamics between their disguised and normal selves bring something wonderful and new to the story (which is exactly what I loved about miraculous!). All of their dynamics reveal another hidden part of themselves that is so exciting to read about and it just solidifies the fact that Aidan and Brianna are absolute soulmates <3 All of the callbacks to miraculous made me giggle (My Lady🥹) and every time they were so close yet so far from figuring each others identities out I was absolutely having the best time. This book is so underrated! Please pick it up because you definitely will not regret it <3
“Six years. Six years, and I’ve never quite shaken him from me, each word he utters in my direction as thunderous as that moment beneath the rolling clouds.
He, I fear, will forever own a little part of me, even if I don’t want him to. Even if he never knows”
“He tilts his head, flashing me a small, wolfish grin. “You’re staring, Princess.”
“The deep violet of her eyes glitters, like amethysts under water.”
“The road into the town is lamplit. Fireflies gather round the lanterns like living stars, twitching in the setting sun. It is a short, pleasant walk, and the air hums with the scent of oranges and baking rosemary.”
“You think I’m silly, don’t you?”I actually think she’s rather adorable and that her skin glows beautifully in the moonlight, but neither of these things sound appropriate to say. “Not at all,” I tell her.”
“I think she’s beautiful. Don’t you?”I glance up and see her eyes on me, all sparkling bluebells in the morning light. I am very, very grateful she can’t hear his question. “Yes,” I say, “she is.”
“It unnerves me, how easily she’s slotted into my life, how quickly she’s become a person I want to see, all of the time. To see, to speak to, to be with. To touch in ways I probably shouldn’t want to touch her in.”
“I quite like this angry, commanding side of Brianna. Her brow furrows delightfully when she’s cross.”
“Her cheeks flush with crimson.“ Blushing, Princess? You were so confident earlier.”
“You make for an excellent image,” I tell her. “Painters and poets alike would delight to render you onto canvas or paper.”Brianna raises an eyebrow. “Are you flirting with me?”“A little,” I admit, “but not seriously. I’m afraid my heart is spoken for.” Brianna bristles, and I wonder if I’ve disappointed her. “Of course,” she says, and her gaze turns to the moon. “My heart is spoken for also,” she admits, her voice barely louder than the breeze. “It is not an easy thing to endure, when they do not return your affections.”
“I’ll take any part of him he’s willing to offer.”
“I would rather have a sliver of any part of you than the whole of someone else.”
“You grew on me,” I tell him. “You grew on me—”“Like a mould?”“Like…” Like the way flowers grow in the meadow, like the way lakes grow during rainstorms until their banks are fit to burst. Like the way branches grow from a tree until you can’t remember the shape of the forest without them. I can’t remember the shape of me before him.”
“Six years. Six years, and I’ve never quite shaken him from me, each word he utters in my direction as thunderous as that moment beneath the rolling clouds.
He, I fear, will forever own a little part of me, even if I don’t want him to. Even if he never knows”
“He tilts his head, flashing me a small, wolfish grin. “You’re staring, Princess.”
“The deep violet of her eyes glitters, like amethysts under water.”
“The road into the town is lamplit. Fireflies gather round the lanterns like living stars, twitching in the setting sun. It is a short, pleasant walk, and the air hums with the scent of oranges and baking rosemary.”
“You think I’m silly, don’t you?”I actually think she’s rather adorable and that her skin glows beautifully in the moonlight, but neither of these things sound appropriate to say. “Not at all,” I tell her.”
“I think she’s beautiful. Don’t you?”I glance up and see her eyes on me, all sparkling bluebells in the morning light. I am very, very grateful she can’t hear his question. “Yes,” I say, “she is.”
“It unnerves me, how easily she’s slotted into my life, how quickly she’s become a person I want to see, all of the time. To see, to speak to, to be with. To touch in ways I probably shouldn’t want to touch her in.”
“I quite like this angry, commanding side of Brianna. Her brow furrows delightfully when she’s cross.”
“Her cheeks flush with crimson.“ Blushing, Princess? You were so confident earlier.”
“You make for an excellent image,” I tell her. “Painters and poets alike would delight to render you onto canvas or paper.”Brianna raises an eyebrow. “Are you flirting with me?”“A little,” I admit, “but not seriously. I’m afraid my heart is spoken for.” Brianna bristles, and I wonder if I’ve disappointed her. “Of course,” she says, and her gaze turns to the moon. “My heart is spoken for also,” she admits, her voice barely louder than the breeze. “It is not an easy thing to endure, when they do not return your affections.”
“I’ll take any part of him he’s willing to offer.”
“I would rather have a sliver of any part of you than the whole of someone else.”
“You grew on me,” I tell him. “You grew on me—”“Like a mould?”“Like…” Like the way flowers grow in the meadow, like the way lakes grow during rainstorms until their banks are fit to burst. Like the way branches grow from a tree until you can’t remember the shape of the forest without them. I can’t remember the shape of me before him.”
November 25, 2023
With captivating world-building, Macdonald skillfully weaves together various elements іn “The Soul іn the Sword”. The story’s charm and depth are enhanced by the multiple character perspectives and the subtle exploration оf profound themes. The book offers a delightful and surprisingly profound journey with its enchanting storytelling and multifaceted characters.
This book is also available for free with Kindle Unlimited membership. So grab your copy today and you will definitely enjoy it. I really loved reading about Red Wolf and Celeste more than Aidan and Brianna. The book is filled with action and adventure.
This book is also available for free with Kindle Unlimited membership. So grab your copy today and you will definitely enjoy it. I really loved reading about Red Wolf and Celeste more than Aidan and Brianna. The book is filled with action and adventure.
April 20, 2024
Kate has surpassed herself again with this book! The banter, the longing, the magic!! Yaas!!!
Damn, I loved this book, he love square works perfectly...its so so so well done, I'm in awe of it.
Did I gasp at the ending and scare my dog and husband...yes...yes I did.
On to book two because I need more!!!!!! 🔥🖤
Damn, I loved this book, he love square works perfectly...its so so so well done, I'm in awe of it.
Did I gasp at the ending and scare my dog and husband...yes...yes I did.
On to book two because I need more!!!!!! 🔥🖤
November 20, 2023
4.5 stars
If you love miraculous ladybug and fantasy babe go read this book, it is a masterpiece. Need more of Brianna n Aidan immediatly💗
After MANY re reads the rating that 0.5 have won me over. 5 outta 5 stars!!!
If you love miraculous ladybug and fantasy babe go read this book, it is a masterpiece. Need more of Brianna n Aidan immediatly💗
After MANY re reads the rating that 0.5 have won me over. 5 outta 5 stars!!!
September 10, 2023
There are actually two reasons why I grabbed a review copy of this book via Booksprout. The cover of this book is insanely gorgeous, mostly because of the colors. And the author of this book has never disappointed me so far. However, despite the warning I had really underestimated how big this book was. I also couldn't foresee I'd get ill and trouble with the plumbing keeping me from focussing on bigger books. However, after a week of reading I finished the book!
The beginning of the book was quite overwhelming. There is a lot of world building. There are a lot of explanations. There are a lot of names, a lot of titles and there is a lot of history. Luckily once we kinda know what kind of world this is and once we've met all the key players the story becomes a little more straight forward and therefore also a little easier to follow. But the story never stops being layered and interesting.
If you love a tragic romance this book is also totally worth a read despite the heavy world building in the beginning. There is a lot of interaction between the two main characters of the story, in different combinations of their personalities (this line makes more sense once you start the book, trust me), and there is always a sizzling kind of chemistry. And from the very start we know it might not end well. At least, not in this book.
I however couldn't have predicted that the finale of the book would be this intense and heartbreaking. The entire book is basically a lot of build up leading toward this finale where all the elements of the story, everything we've seen, all the battle that are fought, all the lessons that are learned, come together. And it's therefore eventually mostly that finale, and the heartbreak I felt while reading it, making the entire book worth the read!
The beginning of the book was quite overwhelming. There is a lot of world building. There are a lot of explanations. There are a lot of names, a lot of titles and there is a lot of history. Luckily once we kinda know what kind of world this is and once we've met all the key players the story becomes a little more straight forward and therefore also a little easier to follow. But the story never stops being layered and interesting.
If you love a tragic romance this book is also totally worth a read despite the heavy world building in the beginning. There is a lot of interaction between the two main characters of the story, in different combinations of their personalities (this line makes more sense once you start the book, trust me), and there is always a sizzling kind of chemistry. And from the very start we know it might not end well. At least, not in this book.
I however couldn't have predicted that the finale of the book would be this intense and heartbreaking. The entire book is basically a lot of build up leading toward this finale where all the elements of the story, everything we've seen, all the battle that are fought, all the lessons that are learned, come together. And it's therefore eventually mostly that finale, and the heartbreak I felt while reading it, making the entire book worth the read!
January 9, 2024
I had high hopes I would love this after adoring another book by the same author, but unfortunately that wasn’t the case.
This had a super interesting premise that was the perfect set-up for an intense romance situation, but none of it came through. The chemistry with the characters in a romance/sexual sense just wasn’t there (especially out of the disguises), and the love “triangle” was awkwardly and forcibly done at best. The disguise romance didn’t make sense to me honestly. It seemed like infatuation or star-struckness more than anything. I get this was supposed to be sweet instead of a high-tension bickering romance, but it still just wasn’t believable. The amount of coincidences the characters conveniently dismissed without second thought was just like come on now…
Besides all that there wasn’t much going on for it otherwise. It’s clear this is romance-focused, so if that falls through as it did for me, well welp. The story was just plain boring and filled with repetitive events in order to make the characters relationships progress.
The prose was still great, but I have to admit that quite a few lines by Aidan were borderline painful. His character just needed a whole reset; something about him wasn’t working well.
I did appreciate all the inclusiveness of different types of people, especially with Brianna being asexual/demisexual. I do wish she (and honestly everyone else) was a little more fleshed out though. I would think having a “double personality” would provide interesting character development moments, but neither side really delved deep. Though maybe it’s my fault for expecting more from what I assume is a YA fantasy.
Regardless of this not boding well with me, I will still be checking the author's other books in time.
This had a super interesting premise that was the perfect set-up for an intense romance situation, but none of it came through. The chemistry with the characters in a romance/sexual sense just wasn’t there (especially out of the disguises), and the love “triangle” was awkwardly and forcibly done at best. The disguise romance didn’t make sense to me honestly. It seemed like infatuation or star-struckness more than anything. I get this was supposed to be sweet instead of a high-tension bickering romance, but it still just wasn’t believable. The amount of coincidences the characters conveniently dismissed without second thought was just like come on now…
Besides all that there wasn’t much going on for it otherwise. It’s clear this is romance-focused, so if that falls through as it did for me, well welp. The story was just plain boring and filled with repetitive events in order to make the characters relationships progress.
The prose was still great, but I have to admit that quite a few lines by Aidan were borderline painful. His character just needed a whole reset; something about him wasn’t working well.
I did appreciate all the inclusiveness of different types of people, especially with Brianna being asexual/demisexual. I do wish she (and honestly everyone else) was a little more fleshed out though. I would think having a “double personality” would provide interesting character development moments, but neither side really delved deep. Though maybe it’s my fault for expecting more from what I assume is a YA fantasy.
Regardless of this not boding well with me, I will still be checking the author's other books in time.
August 31, 2023
4.25 stars
I had been waiting for this book for a while, ever since I heard it would have a "love square" between two people à la Miraculous Ladybug. It's a great premise for a love story.
This book was more than that. Especially because it was not just a love story. It's a story about being who you are and who you will be, and dealing with family and difficult situations, its a look at a society close yet different to our won, its some beautiful descriptions of things you know but had never been able to put into words, its adventure and mystery, and so much more. It has funny moments, and beautiful ones, lovely ones, and also heartbreaking moments.
This story took a little while to grab me but, after that, I was all in. I just wish that I knew more about Arthurian legend so I could better appreciate the inclusion of that, and that I had the next one to read right right since it ends as a cliffhanger, with most things not yet resolved.
All in all, a very good book. Katherine Macdonald keeps doing it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I had been waiting for this book for a while, ever since I heard it would have a "love square" between two people à la Miraculous Ladybug. It's a great premise for a love story.
This book was more than that. Especially because it was not just a love story. It's a story about being who you are and who you will be, and dealing with family and difficult situations, its a look at a society close yet different to our won, its some beautiful descriptions of things you know but had never been able to put into words, its adventure and mystery, and so much more. It has funny moments, and beautiful ones, lovely ones, and also heartbreaking moments.
This story took a little while to grab me but, after that, I was all in. I just wish that I knew more about Arthurian legend so I could better appreciate the inclusion of that, and that I had the next one to read right right since it ends as a cliffhanger, with most things not yet resolved.
All in all, a very good book. Katherine Macdonald keeps doing it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 31, 2023
Thanks to Booksprout I've been able to read this story which I was eager to find out more about since I first saw it announced on Tiktok.
The book was very entertaining and it gave me exactly what I was expecting when I heard it was a mix between the Cruel prince and Miraculous Ladybug. On the one hand, we have a ML who is polite and not very talkative but when he switches to his alter ego he's super flirty and smug. On the other hand, there's the shy FL who is determined to always do the right thing.
It is interesting to see that the ones who dominate in this story are not the fey, but the humans. Nonetheless, despite being the dominating ones, they still fear and hate the others even though they couldn't live without all their inventions.
In addition to what I have already mentioned, in this story you can also see traces or references of Robin Hood and the Legend of King Arthur.
It has multiple points of view, which I really like and enjoy because this way you can see what is happening through the different perspectives of the various characters.
This is the first time I've read something by this author and it, for sure, won't be the last. I would love for this book to reach Spain one day.
The book was very entertaining and it gave me exactly what I was expecting when I heard it was a mix between the Cruel prince and Miraculous Ladybug. On the one hand, we have a ML who is polite and not very talkative but when he switches to his alter ego he's super flirty and smug. On the other hand, there's the shy FL who is determined to always do the right thing.
It is interesting to see that the ones who dominate in this story are not the fey, but the humans. Nonetheless, despite being the dominating ones, they still fear and hate the others even though they couldn't live without all their inventions.
In addition to what I have already mentioned, in this story you can also see traces or references of Robin Hood and the Legend of King Arthur.
It has multiple points of view, which I really like and enjoy because this way you can see what is happening through the different perspectives of the various characters.
This is the first time I've read something by this author and it, for sure, won't be the last. I would love for this book to reach Spain one day.
August 16, 2023
Absolutely loved this! Probably one of my favorite Katherine MacDonald books so far (which is steep competition because she has written so many favorites!).
I think this may have been my first book by her that wasn't strictly a fairy tale retelling, and it didn't disappoint. The world-building and character development was fantastic. The banter between Red Wolf and Celeste was also perfection. One of those books that I stayed up too late reading because I couldn't put it down!
I've seen this advertised as a mix of Cruel Prince and Miraculous Ladybug, but I didn't really get much of a Cruel Prince vibe, to be honest, especially when compared with Forest of Dreams and Whispers. BUT, this is absolutely bursting with Miraculous energy, and it made my Miraculous-loving heart so incredibly happy. Love squares are a seriously underutilized trope, and The Soul in the Sword did it so well.
This is not a standalone though, so if you read it before the sequel is out, mentally prepare yourself.
Content: Probably PG-13. There's a fair bit of violence. There's also some more adult references here and there, but nothing happens on page.
Thanks to the author for this review copy!
I think this may have been my first book by her that wasn't strictly a fairy tale retelling, and it didn't disappoint. The world-building and character development was fantastic. The banter between Red Wolf and Celeste was also perfection. One of those books that I stayed up too late reading because I couldn't put it down!
I've seen this advertised as a mix of Cruel Prince and Miraculous Ladybug, but I didn't really get much of a Cruel Prince vibe, to be honest, especially when compared with Forest of Dreams and Whispers. BUT, this is absolutely bursting with Miraculous energy, and it made my Miraculous-loving heart so incredibly happy. Love squares are a seriously underutilized trope, and The Soul in the Sword did it so well.
This is not a standalone though, so if you read it before the sequel is out, mentally prepare yourself.
Content: Probably PG-13. There's a fair bit of violence. There's also some more adult references here and there, but nothing happens on page.
Thanks to the author for this review copy!
November 17, 2023
(Wall of text incoming)
(You know a book is outstanding when I produce a wall of text)
Great book, and prose wise the best Kate has written so far. Like, you can open any page, randomly point at a line and bam, quote material.
However, I must admit, I'm a fast paced-loving girl, and this book is pret-ty slow (the slow in slow burn in literal). The book wasn't like what I normally read; a raging river that pulls you along, catapulting you to the end. It was instead like a tender stream, trickling and flowing through the story, inviting you along for the ride. Imagine drifting afloat the river in summer in one of those big rubber tires, feeling the breeze ruffle through your hair while you just enjoy the moment. This is this book. This is how this book felt. I didn't rush through it (which made me stress the hell out because I always try for beta reads) but this book DEMANDED time to be enjoyed fully.
I also loved the characters and their banter, the queer normative world, the fleshed out side cast, and Kate, my girl, I officially anoint you my new Queen of Banter! You have to apologize to Carly Spade who held the title until now.
One final thing: This is a love rectangle between 2 people and their in sum 4 alter egos AND. DAMN. IT. WORKED!!! Walking this line of what is giving away too much, and what is enough is challenging as f*ck, and Kate walked it BEAUTIFULLY. 👏👏👏
Why 4 stars? Personal preference regarding pacing. But other than that THIS IS YOUR BEST BOOK SO FAR LADY 👏👏👏
(You know a book is outstanding when I produce a wall of text)
Great book, and prose wise the best Kate has written so far. Like, you can open any page, randomly point at a line and bam, quote material.
However, I must admit, I'm a fast paced-loving girl, and this book is pret-ty slow (the slow in slow burn in literal). The book wasn't like what I normally read; a raging river that pulls you along, catapulting you to the end. It was instead like a tender stream, trickling and flowing through the story, inviting you along for the ride. Imagine drifting afloat the river in summer in one of those big rubber tires, feeling the breeze ruffle through your hair while you just enjoy the moment. This is this book. This is how this book felt. I didn't rush through it (which made me stress the hell out because I always try for beta reads) but this book DEMANDED time to be enjoyed fully.
I also loved the characters and their banter, the queer normative world, the fleshed out side cast, and Kate, my girl, I officially anoint you my new Queen of Banter! You have to apologize to Carly Spade who held the title until now.
One final thing: This is a love rectangle between 2 people and their in sum 4 alter egos AND. DAMN. IT. WORKED!!! Walking this line of what is giving away too much, and what is enough is challenging as f*ck, and Kate walked it BEAUTIFULLY. 👏👏👏
Why 4 stars? Personal preference regarding pacing. But other than that THIS IS YOUR BEST BOOK SO FAR LADY 👏👏👏
April 8, 2024
Thank you to Katherine Macdonald for allowing me to read a copy of this book. The world building within this book was just chef's kiss. The characters drew me in to the story and were dynamic. The story felt original, and it felt like something that I haven't read before. This book deserves so much hype and love, if I'm honest. I cannot wait to read more from Katherine Macdonald.
November 16, 2025
I have never been so satisfied by a cliffhanger in all my life!! Best line ever!!
This was such a fun read! Love EVERYTHING about it! Can wait to find out what happens!
This was such a fun read! Love EVERYTHING about it! Can wait to find out what happens!
November 18, 2023
There is a Blight spreading that causes people to turn into mindless creatures that can infect others and the only way to stop them is to kill the afflicted, and hope to not get infected in the process. One evening, during the white ball, people start screaming because there are infected in the ballroom. Princess Brianna gets removed and put in a safe place where she meets an older lady who tells her the only way to stop the Blight is with a sword that is wielded by someone with her ancestor Uther’s blood, and apparently is in their vault. Brianna decides to go and see if it’s true and use it. Thus, Brianna becomes the Goddess Celeste thanks to the sword’s ability to disguise her and starts defeating the Blight along with Red Wolf a thief and just as mysterious with his identity as Celeste is.
When I first started reading this, I kept thinking “this sounds so much like an animated series about superheroes”. 🤔 and then it hit me! This reminds me of the tv series Miraculous: Tales of Ladybug & Cat Noir! I adore that show! Such a fun show with two ordinary teenagers who are secretly superheroes and their identities are secret. And they have no idea who the other is, even though it’s so blatantly obvious, it’s hilarious!
That’s the same premise with this book with Brianna being Celeste and Red Wolf being a certain someone that is very very obvious 😏
The banter between the two superheroes is similar with Ladybug and Cat Noir with Celeste being the more mature of the two and Red Wolf being more sassy and flirty, but really good with his moves 😂 Red Wolf even calls Celeste My Lady just like Cat Noir! And then when they’re their real personas, they’re completely opposite and have no idea the other is this superhero persona. And you’re just screaming into the book trying to tell them it’s so obvious, but they’re oblivious, which just added that extra humor to this story.
Now I know I’ve compared it a lot to the tv series, but this really is its own book. This book had a lot of detail, especially about the world, and it was a rather slow build up to the end. You get to learn about the world and the characters, which I always love being able to picture the world and connect with the characters.
Prince Aidan is hands down my favorite character. No matter what happens in this series, I’m on his side. His story is heartbreaking and yet beautiful and he deserves some sort of redemption after what he’s been through. His story was put in such detail that I couldn’t help but just fall in love with him and just always root for him. Like forget Brianna, just let Aidan be okay 😅😂
The romance(s) are very much a slow burn. You’re kind of pulled all over the place trying to figure out whether it will go this way or that way, and whether they’ll figure out who is who, etc. it was great trying to see how everything would play out and well, now I have to wait for the next book 🤣😭
Now, I am going to be very honest here and say that I couldn’t really connect very well with Brianna. I think maybe because I could relate more to Aidan than Brianna, and Brianna clearly goes through major growth through this story. Being a princess and being VERY spoiled, you can tell she’s learning and changing her thinking about a lot of things. There were just times where she claims to be okay with the Fey and says she treats servants as more equals, but then she does or says something that contradicts that and I really struggled with that and wasn’t sure how legitimate she was. I’m sure her growth will be more in the next book and maybe, just maybe I will like her more. For now, I just love Aidan and his fellow adopted brother Kay!
Overall, this was a very enjoyable read! It had some fun action and comedy mixed in with darker fantasy elements and made for a fun story! I highly recommend this one! I received a free digital copy to read. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
When I first started reading this, I kept thinking “this sounds so much like an animated series about superheroes”. 🤔 and then it hit me! This reminds me of the tv series Miraculous: Tales of Ladybug & Cat Noir! I adore that show! Such a fun show with two ordinary teenagers who are secretly superheroes and their identities are secret. And they have no idea who the other is, even though it’s so blatantly obvious, it’s hilarious!
That’s the same premise with this book with Brianna being Celeste and Red Wolf being a certain someone that is very very obvious 😏
The banter between the two superheroes is similar with Ladybug and Cat Noir with Celeste being the more mature of the two and Red Wolf being more sassy and flirty, but really good with his moves 😂 Red Wolf even calls Celeste My Lady just like Cat Noir! And then when they’re their real personas, they’re completely opposite and have no idea the other is this superhero persona. And you’re just screaming into the book trying to tell them it’s so obvious, but they’re oblivious, which just added that extra humor to this story.
Now I know I’ve compared it a lot to the tv series, but this really is its own book. This book had a lot of detail, especially about the world, and it was a rather slow build up to the end. You get to learn about the world and the characters, which I always love being able to picture the world and connect with the characters.
Prince Aidan is hands down my favorite character. No matter what happens in this series, I’m on his side. His story is heartbreaking and yet beautiful and he deserves some sort of redemption after what he’s been through. His story was put in such detail that I couldn’t help but just fall in love with him and just always root for him. Like forget Brianna, just let Aidan be okay 😅😂
The romance(s) are very much a slow burn. You’re kind of pulled all over the place trying to figure out whether it will go this way or that way, and whether they’ll figure out who is who, etc. it was great trying to see how everything would play out and well, now I have to wait for the next book 🤣😭
Now, I am going to be very honest here and say that I couldn’t really connect very well with Brianna. I think maybe because I could relate more to Aidan than Brianna, and Brianna clearly goes through major growth through this story. Being a princess and being VERY spoiled, you can tell she’s learning and changing her thinking about a lot of things. There were just times where she claims to be okay with the Fey and says she treats servants as more equals, but then she does or says something that contradicts that and I really struggled with that and wasn’t sure how legitimate she was. I’m sure her growth will be more in the next book and maybe, just maybe I will like her more. For now, I just love Aidan and his fellow adopted brother Kay!
Overall, this was a very enjoyable read! It had some fun action and comedy mixed in with darker fantasy elements and made for a fun story! I highly recommend this one! I received a free digital copy to read. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 18, 2023
This is not my first read from Katherine MacDonald. I really enjoy the way she builds her world of human's, Fae and Fairytales. It's not as dark as others I have read in terms of the Fae (looking at you Holly Black) but it’s still very entertaining and so satisfying.
We start at a human kingdom with a King that is fearful of all Fae and the glamour they can hold over human's. Anyone that has any Fae blood is put to death. He sounds pretty awful right? Yeah, he does but as we're reading through the POV of his daughter he doesn't seem like a really bad guy however, the fear that he has has led to a very bad law. His people do prosper but there has come a darkness that has been seen before many years ago that they call the Blight. This Blight is like a plague spreading to people and organic matter which causes the victim to turn into a monster before its eventual demise. There is no known way to really stop it from spreading. However, when it comes to a party at the palace Princess Brianna, the King's daughter gets an idea from a stranger about a magical sword that only a certain bloodline can wield to stop the Blight.
Brianna finds the sword and with the help of a thief, Red Wolf she learns to fight the demon that is infiltrating their world.
Okay, enough background. I want romance! Now as much as this can pain me. This is a YA book. I love YA, I really do even as an adult they are still incredibly enjoyable stories. However, would I like a little spice? YES! I would. But the build up between characters is so good. And spice would be nothing without the tension, the buildup. It’s done well. This is kind of a love square but also not at all. Without giving much away the 4 people in question are Princess Brianna, Prince Aidan, Celeste and Red Wolf. Once you start reading you’ll get it. You may even get it now. It was enjoyable listening to Red Wolf’s witty banter and I loved his not at all subtle innuendos. I loved that Celeste didn’t always take him seriously. Their friendship/partnership grew on me. But it did take some time. I really looked at Red Wolf like a mix between Robin Hood and Peter Pan. I love both of those stories however, no one wants to really date a Peter Pan, boy needs to grow up. So, at times he drove me a little crazy. But oh, the story I really fell for was Aidan and Brianna. I loved them. They felt real. At least for made up royalty. It felt like young blossoming love. Self discovery. I want more of them!
Now this is important, listen up. This story is not complete. Do not expect some big happy ending, it’s not in this tale. Don’t worry too much it doesn’t hang us readers completely out to dry but if you’ve enjoyed it until the end only to realize this is the end, there are no more pages I’m there with you. You’ll NEED the next book. I’m going right out to get it!
World building - check
Interesting and Engaging Characters - check (love Kay!)
Romance - check (but I want more!!!! Second book, do not disappoint me!)
Overall 4.5 big stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you Booksprout and Katherine MacDonald for letting me read and review an ARC of this book.
We start at a human kingdom with a King that is fearful of all Fae and the glamour they can hold over human's. Anyone that has any Fae blood is put to death. He sounds pretty awful right? Yeah, he does but as we're reading through the POV of his daughter he doesn't seem like a really bad guy however, the fear that he has has led to a very bad law. His people do prosper but there has come a darkness that has been seen before many years ago that they call the Blight. This Blight is like a plague spreading to people and organic matter which causes the victim to turn into a monster before its eventual demise. There is no known way to really stop it from spreading. However, when it comes to a party at the palace Princess Brianna, the King's daughter gets an idea from a stranger about a magical sword that only a certain bloodline can wield to stop the Blight.
Brianna finds the sword and with the help of a thief, Red Wolf she learns to fight the demon that is infiltrating their world.
Okay, enough background. I want romance! Now as much as this can pain me. This is a YA book. I love YA, I really do even as an adult they are still incredibly enjoyable stories. However, would I like a little spice? YES! I would. But the build up between characters is so good. And spice would be nothing without the tension, the buildup. It’s done well. This is kind of a love square but also not at all. Without giving much away the 4 people in question are Princess Brianna, Prince Aidan, Celeste and Red Wolf. Once you start reading you’ll get it. You may even get it now. It was enjoyable listening to Red Wolf’s witty banter and I loved his not at all subtle innuendos. I loved that Celeste didn’t always take him seriously. Their friendship/partnership grew on me. But it did take some time. I really looked at Red Wolf like a mix between Robin Hood and Peter Pan. I love both of those stories however, no one wants to really date a Peter Pan, boy needs to grow up. So, at times he drove me a little crazy. But oh, the story I really fell for was Aidan and Brianna. I loved them. They felt real. At least for made up royalty. It felt like young blossoming love. Self discovery. I want more of them!
Now this is important, listen up. This story is not complete. Do not expect some big happy ending, it’s not in this tale. Don’t worry too much it doesn’t hang us readers completely out to dry but if you’ve enjoyed it until the end only to realize this is the end, there are no more pages I’m there with you. You’ll NEED the next book. I’m going right out to get it!
World building - check
Interesting and Engaging Characters - check (love Kay!)
Romance - check (but I want more!!!! Second book, do not disappoint me!)
Overall 4.5 big stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you Booksprout and Katherine MacDonald for letting me read and review an ARC of this book.
November 28, 2023
📚BOOK REVIEW📚
The Soul in the Sword by Katherine Macdonald
(Book 1 in the A Throne of Pearls and Bones series)
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice level: 0/3
Genres: fantasy romance
Tropes: reluctant hero, alter egos, slow burn, hidden identity, YA, cozy fantasy
Periodically, a vicious plague will spread across the kingdom of Albion. No one is safe except the fey, who have been mostly hunted into extinction. After an outbreak occurs at a ball, Princess Brianna turns to an old legend to find a solution.
She finds the sword that has been cursed to only work for her bloodline, and prays for an answer. The gods answer, and the sword (temporarily) transforms her into Celeste, an ancient fey warrior.
Teaming up with an infamous thief known as the Red Wolf, Celeste/Brianna begins a quest to rid the land of the plague, all while trying to hide her new alter-ego from her friends and family.
This story is a multi-POV between Prince Aidan, Princess Brianna, Red Wolf, and Celeste.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This was a cute read. I don’t think it was officially labeled as a cozy fantasy, but that’s how it read. I got very “Ladybug & Cat Noir” vibes from this one, which was fun (but surprising, because it is not advertised that way). This book has some of my favorite themes/tropes, like a MMC with golden retriever energy and fey not being able to lie. Red Wolf’s backstory is also a loose Robin Hood retelling which is cool.
The characters have an almost love triangle-type thing going on, which was amusing. I feel like them not being able to figure out each other’s identities based on the clues left behind (similarities in personalities, how they always show up where their alter-egos were) was a little unbelievable, but I tried to remember their appearances were very different.
The interactions between Brianna and Vivi are funny; their friendship dynamic is really endearing and reminds me of my own friends a bit.
The dynamic between Brianna and Aidan is interesting; her father was the cause of the death of Aidan’s parents. He harbored anger about this for a while but eventually let it drop, apparently because he didn’t want Brianna to feel the pain of losing a parent. This dynamic had a lot of potential to be a good sub-plot, but it’s brushed over pretty fast (which is a bummer).
My first issue is that this is not advertised as a YA book, and the author does not classify it as YA. However, the dialogue, the events/plot, even the character ages put it (in my opinion) in a YA classification. There’s nothing wrong with it being YA, but books being incorrectly categorized annoys me in a way I cannot explain.
There wasn’t really anything wrong about this book in general, it just felt very slow and boring to me. The plot feels kind of low stakes and a bit juvenile. The characters are funny and their interactions are cute sometimes, but some of it just gave me secondhand cringe.
Overall, if you’re looking for a cute, cozy fantasy, this might be up your alley.
Thank you to BOMM Tours and the author for a copy of this to read ✨
The Soul in the Sword by Katherine Macdonald
(Book 1 in the A Throne of Pearls and Bones series)
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice level: 0/3
Genres: fantasy romance
Tropes: reluctant hero, alter egos, slow burn, hidden identity, YA, cozy fantasy
Periodically, a vicious plague will spread across the kingdom of Albion. No one is safe except the fey, who have been mostly hunted into extinction. After an outbreak occurs at a ball, Princess Brianna turns to an old legend to find a solution.
She finds the sword that has been cursed to only work for her bloodline, and prays for an answer. The gods answer, and the sword (temporarily) transforms her into Celeste, an ancient fey warrior.
Teaming up with an infamous thief known as the Red Wolf, Celeste/Brianna begins a quest to rid the land of the plague, all while trying to hide her new alter-ego from her friends and family.
This story is a multi-POV between Prince Aidan, Princess Brianna, Red Wolf, and Celeste.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This was a cute read. I don’t think it was officially labeled as a cozy fantasy, but that’s how it read. I got very “Ladybug & Cat Noir” vibes from this one, which was fun (but surprising, because it is not advertised that way). This book has some of my favorite themes/tropes, like a MMC with golden retriever energy and fey not being able to lie. Red Wolf’s backstory is also a loose Robin Hood retelling which is cool.
The characters have an almost love triangle-type thing going on, which was amusing. I feel like them not being able to figure out each other’s identities based on the clues left behind (similarities in personalities, how they always show up where their alter-egos were) was a little unbelievable, but I tried to remember their appearances were very different.
The interactions between Brianna and Vivi are funny; their friendship dynamic is really endearing and reminds me of my own friends a bit.
The dynamic between Brianna and Aidan is interesting; her father was the cause of the death of Aidan’s parents. He harbored anger about this for a while but eventually let it drop, apparently because he didn’t want Brianna to feel the pain of losing a parent. This dynamic had a lot of potential to be a good sub-plot, but it’s brushed over pretty fast (which is a bummer).
My first issue is that this is not advertised as a YA book, and the author does not classify it as YA. However, the dialogue, the events/plot, even the character ages put it (in my opinion) in a YA classification. There’s nothing wrong with it being YA, but books being incorrectly categorized annoys me in a way I cannot explain.
There wasn’t really anything wrong about this book in general, it just felt very slow and boring to me. The plot feels kind of low stakes and a bit juvenile. The characters are funny and their interactions are cute sometimes, but some of it just gave me secondhand cringe.
Overall, if you’re looking for a cute, cozy fantasy, this might be up your alley.
Thank you to BOMM Tours and the author for a copy of this to read ✨
September 5, 2023
Did I skip sleep entirely to read this, even though I knew I had an international flight the next day? Yes. Yes, I did. And you would too!
If you love:
- hidden identities/ alter-egos
- mutual pining/ aching romantic tension
- gender role reversals
- detailed and thoughtful characterizations
- villain-turned-hero
- loveable side characters
- friends-to-lovers
- healing/comfort
- LGBTQ+ and disability rep
- fey vs human vs demon dynamics
- a plot that doesn't slow down
- emotional confessions
Then you'll love this book! It reminded me a bit of Defy the Night by Brigid Kemmerer, if that helps you decide.
Brianna is Albion's young princess. She's charming, intelligent, beautiful, and composed. Except around her childhood crush, Prince Aidan, of course, who is one of the only people who has ever shown her kindness without expecting something in return. Who has no idea about her deep affection for him.
Little does Brianna realize that Prince Aidan is also the infamous masked thief named Red Wolf, who once held a dagger to her throat. Who, while she's in her secret identity as Celeste, flirts and charms and yet is absolutely *weak* for her.
Do I have your attention yet?
The two main characters, while in their secret identities, must team together to take down the Blight before it devastates the kingdom's people. It's all action, flirting while fighting, and passion! As the prince and princess, they take on the Blight in a slightly different way: as the polite, composed, and dutiful researchers. I loved seeing both sides of their romance: the fiery banter of their alter-egos contrasted with the gentle sweetness of their usual selves. You can tell through their dual-POVs that they are still the same people at their core (their thoughts are the same), but their behaviors highlight how their different identities allow them to show different sides of themselves.
And oh, but this is the slowest of slow-burns, in the most delightful way! Tension drips from the page like honey: sweet, warm, and consuming.
I cannot wait to read Part 2 so I can follow these beautiful characters again and see where their story goes! I just know we're in for some serious angst, rising stakes, and emotional reveals. I'd recommend this for anyone who enjoys fantasy with a heavy dose of romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
If you love:
- hidden identities/ alter-egos
- mutual pining/ aching romantic tension
- gender role reversals
- detailed and thoughtful characterizations
- villain-turned-hero
- loveable side characters
- friends-to-lovers
- healing/comfort
- LGBTQ+ and disability rep
- fey vs human vs demon dynamics
- a plot that doesn't slow down
- emotional confessions
Then you'll love this book! It reminded me a bit of Defy the Night by Brigid Kemmerer, if that helps you decide.
Brianna is Albion's young princess. She's charming, intelligent, beautiful, and composed. Except around her childhood crush, Prince Aidan, of course, who is one of the only people who has ever shown her kindness without expecting something in return. Who has no idea about her deep affection for him.
Little does Brianna realize that Prince Aidan is also the infamous masked thief named Red Wolf, who once held a dagger to her throat. Who, while she's in her secret identity as Celeste, flirts and charms and yet is absolutely *weak* for her.
Do I have your attention yet?
The two main characters, while in their secret identities, must team together to take down the Blight before it devastates the kingdom's people. It's all action, flirting while fighting, and passion! As the prince and princess, they take on the Blight in a slightly different way: as the polite, composed, and dutiful researchers. I loved seeing both sides of their romance: the fiery banter of their alter-egos contrasted with the gentle sweetness of their usual selves. You can tell through their dual-POVs that they are still the same people at their core (their thoughts are the same), but their behaviors highlight how their different identities allow them to show different sides of themselves.
And oh, but this is the slowest of slow-burns, in the most delightful way! Tension drips from the page like honey: sweet, warm, and consuming.
I cannot wait to read Part 2 so I can follow these beautiful characters again and see where their story goes! I just know we're in for some serious angst, rising stakes, and emotional reveals. I'd recommend this for anyone who enjoys fantasy with a heavy dose of romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 26, 2023
Loved this book! I received it as an ARC and am so glad I did! This book very loosely takes on Arthurian legend but adds elements of paganism with the Fey to bring a brand-new story to light.
The main female protagonist of the story is Princess Brianna. Her kingdom undergoes outbreaks of the Blight, a devastating and mortal affliction that she discovers her father the king is trying to hide. When it shows itself at a palace function and infects her guard and best friend, she only knows that she must do something and after discovering that there may be a sword to fight it off in her family vault, she is off. And it is only for her that the sword is released from the stone, and she becomes Celeste.
Prince Aidan Pendragon is her unrequited love interest and unbeknownst to her, soon to be her partner in battling the outbreaks. Only, it is not as Aidan, but as the Red Wolf, a thief that has struck many times – and as she later discovers – in order to help those without enough funds for themselves. He was adopted as a child after his fey parents were murdered by the king and has had to keep his parentage secret.
While the story develops in a time and place of great prejudice against the fey and where even a hint may be just cause for execution, Brianna has not ever subscribed to that philosophy. Once she has her sword, Brianna/Celeste finds the source of the outbreak and destroys it but requires help in the form of Aidan/Red Wolf. After partnering with one another to battle other outbreaks, they begin to trust each other, and Red Wolf introduces her to the world of the Fey.
The plot is centered around the two working together to find and combat outbreaks of the Blight around the kingdom. However, while together as Celeste and Red Wolf, they are warned to not let each other know of their alter egos as it will end in death. The story progresses with each character growing, Brianna in strength and confidence as a woman as falling in love and Red Wolf in compassion and forgiveness. It is full of female empowerment with royalty that have and develop a sense of morality and an underlying need for change.
Once I started this book, I could not put it down. There are elements of violence in it so may not be suitable for younger readers, but no spicy adult situations. It does end on a cliffhanger, so make sure you are ready for book two! I can’t wait!
The main female protagonist of the story is Princess Brianna. Her kingdom undergoes outbreaks of the Blight, a devastating and mortal affliction that she discovers her father the king is trying to hide. When it shows itself at a palace function and infects her guard and best friend, she only knows that she must do something and after discovering that there may be a sword to fight it off in her family vault, she is off. And it is only for her that the sword is released from the stone, and she becomes Celeste.
Prince Aidan Pendragon is her unrequited love interest and unbeknownst to her, soon to be her partner in battling the outbreaks. Only, it is not as Aidan, but as the Red Wolf, a thief that has struck many times – and as she later discovers – in order to help those without enough funds for themselves. He was adopted as a child after his fey parents were murdered by the king and has had to keep his parentage secret.
While the story develops in a time and place of great prejudice against the fey and where even a hint may be just cause for execution, Brianna has not ever subscribed to that philosophy. Once she has her sword, Brianna/Celeste finds the source of the outbreak and destroys it but requires help in the form of Aidan/Red Wolf. After partnering with one another to battle other outbreaks, they begin to trust each other, and Red Wolf introduces her to the world of the Fey.
The plot is centered around the two working together to find and combat outbreaks of the Blight around the kingdom. However, while together as Celeste and Red Wolf, they are warned to not let each other know of their alter egos as it will end in death. The story progresses with each character growing, Brianna in strength and confidence as a woman as falling in love and Red Wolf in compassion and forgiveness. It is full of female empowerment with royalty that have and develop a sense of morality and an underlying need for change.
Once I started this book, I could not put it down. There are elements of violence in it so may not be suitable for younger readers, but no spicy adult situations. It does end on a cliffhanger, so make sure you are ready for book two! I can’t wait!
August 30, 2023
Another ARC I received, and another ARC I really enjoyed! I was so surprised by how much I enjoyed this story and the characters. I honestly almost DNF’d within the first few chapters—just because the writing style is so different from what I’m used to reading–but I’m very glad that I adjusted and finished the story.
A Soul in the Sword follows two nobles–Princess Bree and Prince Aiden (though he’s adopted and not a prince by birth)--as they navigate the politics of the mortal world, that of the Fey world, and attempt to keep both worlds safe. Princess Bree, while intelligent and a vast need to do ‘good’ for others, is woefully ignorant of the world around her as her father has sheltered her since her mother’s death. Aidan, on the other hand, grew up in an orphanage and was taken-in as a young boy by an older lady of the court. His life as partial-Fey is a constant adventure, and he rarely takes notice of Bree because of these differences. However, the two are thrust together in a most unlikely way once the Blight–a living and highly infectious disease that turns humans and Fey into monsters before death–returns to the land. Called by a higher power, Bree transforms into Celeste (a goddess) by way of a sword. The sword allows her to seek out the Source of the Blight and destroy it before it can infect others. Bree as Celeste teams-up with the Red Wolf–a notorious Fey thief. Little does Bree know that the Red Wolf is actually her crush, Aiden. Neither knows of the other’s identity, and they begin to form both a friendship and blossoming relationship as they try to navigate their world and stop the Blight.
Like I said, I really enjoyed this story much more than I thought I would. The characters are well developed and their development deepens as the story progresses. Their relationship with each other (in both egos) does not feel forced, and I liked that the relationship was not immediately nor overtly sexual. Do I hope they get there? Yes, absolutely. But there is something sweet about a relationship that builds from mutual trust and experiences. I also enjoyed the world building and how there were some secrets that you, as the reader, know right away and get to see the characters uncover throughout the story. The plot was well-developed and I was sad when the book ended. I am really looking forward to the second installment to see how the relationship between Bree and Aiden progresses as well as the reaction that Bree’s friend has to discovering her alter-ego.
The writing style of this story is very whimsical–that’s the best word I have to describe. It felt almost ethereal and like I was walking through the story with the characters. The prose and dialogue are effortless and, at times, rather humorous. It took some getting used to as I’m more adapted to a ‘harsher’ writing style–again, I know it’s not the best description but it’s the only word I can think of! The prose fits the narrative beautifully and, again, I can’t wait for the second book!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A Soul in the Sword follows two nobles–Princess Bree and Prince Aiden (though he’s adopted and not a prince by birth)--as they navigate the politics of the mortal world, that of the Fey world, and attempt to keep both worlds safe. Princess Bree, while intelligent and a vast need to do ‘good’ for others, is woefully ignorant of the world around her as her father has sheltered her since her mother’s death. Aidan, on the other hand, grew up in an orphanage and was taken-in as a young boy by an older lady of the court. His life as partial-Fey is a constant adventure, and he rarely takes notice of Bree because of these differences. However, the two are thrust together in a most unlikely way once the Blight–a living and highly infectious disease that turns humans and Fey into monsters before death–returns to the land. Called by a higher power, Bree transforms into Celeste (a goddess) by way of a sword. The sword allows her to seek out the Source of the Blight and destroy it before it can infect others. Bree as Celeste teams-up with the Red Wolf–a notorious Fey thief. Little does Bree know that the Red Wolf is actually her crush, Aiden. Neither knows of the other’s identity, and they begin to form both a friendship and blossoming relationship as they try to navigate their world and stop the Blight.
Like I said, I really enjoyed this story much more than I thought I would. The characters are well developed and their development deepens as the story progresses. Their relationship with each other (in both egos) does not feel forced, and I liked that the relationship was not immediately nor overtly sexual. Do I hope they get there? Yes, absolutely. But there is something sweet about a relationship that builds from mutual trust and experiences. I also enjoyed the world building and how there were some secrets that you, as the reader, know right away and get to see the characters uncover throughout the story. The plot was well-developed and I was sad when the book ended. I am really looking forward to the second installment to see how the relationship between Bree and Aiden progresses as well as the reaction that Bree’s friend has to discovering her alter-ego.
The writing style of this story is very whimsical–that’s the best word I have to describe. It felt almost ethereal and like I was walking through the story with the characters. The prose and dialogue are effortless and, at times, rather humorous. It took some getting used to as I’m more adapted to a ‘harsher’ writing style–again, I know it’s not the best description but it’s the only word I can think of! The prose fits the narrative beautifully and, again, I can’t wait for the second book!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 19, 2023
Albion is a realm embroiled in ancient conflicts and mystical complexities. Princess Brianna, thrust into an unexpected role as a legendary magical fey warrior, embarks on a quest to eradicate the mysterious Blight that threatens her land, shrouded in the dual mantle of duty and secrecy. She is joined in her quest by an enigmatic thief-turned-hero, The Red Wolf. The secret identities are so much fun and I adore the 'love square' that ensues as a result.
The narrative unfurls with surprising depth despite the adorably campy premise, weaving a tapestry rich in both fantasy elements and poignant societal reflections. Amidst the overarching quest to combat the Blight, Macdonald embeds an array of representations, embracing LGBTQIA+ characters, including a portrayal of a young trans man, a demi-coded character, and a bi-coded character. Brianna especially resonates with relatable traits of anxiety and constant overthinking, grounding her character in authentic emotional depth. The protagonists are genuinely good people and I deeply enjoyed spending time with them. The complexity further deepens through the relationships and interactions, notably the entangled web of feelings involving Brianna, Prince Aidan, and the dual identities. (Celeste and The Red Wolf remind me a bit of She-Ra and Catra). I adore the dynamic.
Brianna's acknowledgment and navigation of her societal privilege elevate her character arc, offering a resonant exploration of self-awareness and personal evolution. Prince Aidan also brings a nuanced and thoughtful yearning for revenge. His status as a former orphan also brings depth to his character. Noteworthy secondary characters like Kay and Vivi inject additional intrigue, warranting anticipation for further exploration of their characters.
Macdonald seamlessly intertwines these elements with captivating world-building. The interplay of multiple character perspectives and the nuanced exploration of profound themes contribute to the story's charm and depth. In essence, "The Soul in the Sword" captivates with its enchanting storytelling, multifaceted characters, and offers a delightful and surprisingly profound journey. Can't wait for more!
Thanks to the author and BOMM for the review copy. This is an honest review.
The narrative unfurls with surprising depth despite the adorably campy premise, weaving a tapestry rich in both fantasy elements and poignant societal reflections. Amidst the overarching quest to combat the Blight, Macdonald embeds an array of representations, embracing LGBTQIA+ characters, including a portrayal of a young trans man, a demi-coded character, and a bi-coded character. Brianna especially resonates with relatable traits of anxiety and constant overthinking, grounding her character in authentic emotional depth. The protagonists are genuinely good people and I deeply enjoyed spending time with them. The complexity further deepens through the relationships and interactions, notably the entangled web of feelings involving Brianna, Prince Aidan, and the dual identities. (Celeste and The Red Wolf remind me a bit of She-Ra and Catra). I adore the dynamic.
Brianna's acknowledgment and navigation of her societal privilege elevate her character arc, offering a resonant exploration of self-awareness and personal evolution. Prince Aidan also brings a nuanced and thoughtful yearning for revenge. His status as a former orphan also brings depth to his character. Noteworthy secondary characters like Kay and Vivi inject additional intrigue, warranting anticipation for further exploration of their characters.
Macdonald seamlessly intertwines these elements with captivating world-building. The interplay of multiple character perspectives and the nuanced exploration of profound themes contribute to the story's charm and depth. In essence, "The Soul in the Sword" captivates with its enchanting storytelling, multifaceted characters, and offers a delightful and surprisingly profound journey. Can't wait for more!
Thanks to the author and BOMM for the review copy. This is an honest review.
April 14, 2025
Rating: 🌕🌕🌑🌑🌑
Tags: arthurian legend, anxiety representation, unheroic fmc, secret identity, she falls first,
DNF at 27%.
I’m sad to say this, because I really liked Forest of Dreams and Whispers and so I wanted to like this, too, but man, this book needs more editing.
The pacing is really off, we spend ages on minute details that don’t matter, like characters and descriptions that we will never see or hear from again. The actual plot, the one mentioned in the synopsis, doesn’t even truly set in until well past the 100 page mark.
Furthermore, there’s 3 mentions of the name “Elaine”? But they’re all different and completely unrelated to each other. The first is a servant girl who first got infected with the Blight at the beginning of the book. The second mention is an orphanage, St. Elaine’s. And the third is, ironically enough, the headmistress of said orphanage, whose name is Helain. I’m just wondering what went wrong here because that’s the kind of stuff you usually clock right away as an author, especially an experienced one, and Katherine Macdonald has written dozens of books before this one. I’m confused?
Overall, this just reads on the young side of YA, despite the main characters being 19 at the youngest. The FMC is just very naive and inexperienced to an extreme. She’s sweet and she definitely TRIES, but she acts like a 15 year old at most.
The MMC has a very flippant and flirtatious personality, but it doesn’t come off naturally. It feels a bit odd that he should act so smiley and familiar right from the start, especially in high stakes situations. That type of character archetype worked really well in Forest of Dreams and Whispers, because the story setting allowed for it and supported it, but feels forced and out of place here.
Their chemistry is also painfully awkward. She is so nervous and clumsy around him, because she’s had a crush on him for years, and it’s giving me such intense second hand embarrassment, because she makes a FOOL out of herself in front of him, being as socially awkward as she is, and this guy couldn’t be less interested in her. And again, she’s supposed to be 19, but she acts like she only just hit puberty. I swear, I lost years of my life reading their scenes together.
Tags: arthurian legend, anxiety representation, unheroic fmc, secret identity, she falls first,
DNF at 27%.
I’m sad to say this, because I really liked Forest of Dreams and Whispers and so I wanted to like this, too, but man, this book needs more editing.
The pacing is really off, we spend ages on minute details that don’t matter, like characters and descriptions that we will never see or hear from again. The actual plot, the one mentioned in the synopsis, doesn’t even truly set in until well past the 100 page mark.
Furthermore, there’s 3 mentions of the name “Elaine”? But they’re all different and completely unrelated to each other. The first is a servant girl who first got infected with the Blight at the beginning of the book. The second mention is an orphanage, St. Elaine’s. And the third is, ironically enough, the headmistress of said orphanage, whose name is Helain. I’m just wondering what went wrong here because that’s the kind of stuff you usually clock right away as an author, especially an experienced one, and Katherine Macdonald has written dozens of books before this one. I’m confused?
Overall, this just reads on the young side of YA, despite the main characters being 19 at the youngest. The FMC is just very naive and inexperienced to an extreme. She’s sweet and she definitely TRIES, but she acts like a 15 year old at most.
The MMC has a very flippant and flirtatious personality, but it doesn’t come off naturally. It feels a bit odd that he should act so smiley and familiar right from the start, especially in high stakes situations. That type of character archetype worked really well in Forest of Dreams and Whispers, because the story setting allowed for it and supported it, but feels forced and out of place here.
Their chemistry is also painfully awkward. She is so nervous and clumsy around him, because she’s had a crush on him for years, and it’s giving me such intense second hand embarrassment, because she makes a FOOL out of herself in front of him, being as socially awkward as she is, and this guy couldn’t be less interested in her. And again, she’s supposed to be 19, but she acts like she only just hit puberty. I swear, I lost years of my life reading their scenes together.
August 31, 2023
“The Soul in the Sword” is a wonderfully written story that incorporates Arthurian legend with some aspects of Paganism, English folklore and of course Fae mythology that are all expertly woven to create a very rich and full world. The dialogue is fresh and fun, particularly between Celeste and Red Wolf, and it’s nice to have a main character who isn’t perfect in every way. Brianna is a little quirky, anxious, and an over-thinker which is perfectly captured in the way MacDonald wrote her character. The scene where she quacks had me laughing because it’s something completely ridiculous that I would do and then be absolutely mortified.
This book does seem a little different than the other books I’ve read by Katherine MacDonald, although that’s definitely not a bad thing; I don’t particularly like when an author’s books all have the same tone as it gets repetitive.
“The Soul in the Sword” has pretty diverse characters, one of whom is a deaf trans man, but it’s not written so that their differences are their entire personality which is nice. People are accepted for who they are (unless they are Fae) but Princess Brianna really seems to be much more empathetic, especially with her being a noble. I really enjoyed the aspect of the love square rather than the traditional trope of a love triangle as it was much more interesting and complex.
I also liked that the romantic aspects took some time to build and they didn’t just meet one another and fall hopelessly in love, which is incredibly unrealistic.
Apparently Miraculous Ladybug & Cruel Prince’s were an inspiration to this book, however I’m not familiar with either, but you don’t need to be in order to enjoy this tale. This book is the first part of a series entitled “A Throne of Pearls and Bones”, and it is a great first introduction into this world and the challenges they face not only with the blight but with the general attitude towards the Fae.
I anxiously await the next book!
I received an ARC copy of “The Soul in the Sword” to impartially review, however my opinions are honest and are absolutely my own.
This book does seem a little different than the other books I’ve read by Katherine MacDonald, although that’s definitely not a bad thing; I don’t particularly like when an author’s books all have the same tone as it gets repetitive.
“The Soul in the Sword” has pretty diverse characters, one of whom is a deaf trans man, but it’s not written so that their differences are their entire personality which is nice. People are accepted for who they are (unless they are Fae) but Princess Brianna really seems to be much more empathetic, especially with her being a noble. I really enjoyed the aspect of the love square rather than the traditional trope of a love triangle as it was much more interesting and complex.
I also liked that the romantic aspects took some time to build and they didn’t just meet one another and fall hopelessly in love, which is incredibly unrealistic.
Apparently Miraculous Ladybug & Cruel Prince’s were an inspiration to this book, however I’m not familiar with either, but you don’t need to be in order to enjoy this tale. This book is the first part of a series entitled “A Throne of Pearls and Bones”, and it is a great first introduction into this world and the challenges they face not only with the blight but with the general attitude towards the Fae.
I anxiously await the next book!
I received an ARC copy of “The Soul in the Sword” to impartially review, however my opinions are honest and are absolutely my own.
November 26, 2023
💜✨𝗕𝗢𝗢𝗞•𝗥𝗘𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗪✨💜
✨𝚃𝙷𝙴 𝚂𝙾𝚄𝙻 𝙸𝙽 𝚃𝙷𝙴 𝚂𝚆𝙾𝚁𝙳 𝙱𝚈 𝙺𝙰𝚃𝙷𝙴𝚁𝙸𝙽𝙴 𝙼𝙰𝙲𝙳𝙾𝙽𝙰𝙻𝙳
✨𝙱𝙾𝙾𝙺 𝟷 𝙸𝙽 𝚃𝙷𝙴 𝙰 𝚃𝙷𝚁𝙾𝙽𝙴 𝙾𝙵 𝙿𝙴𝙰𝚁𝙻𝚂 𝙰𝙽𝙳 𝙱𝙾𝙽𝙴𝚂 𝚂𝙴𝚁𝙸𝙴𝚂
✨𝙶𝙴𝙽𝚁𝙴: 𝙵𝙰𝙽𝚃𝙰𝚂𝚈 𝚁𝙾𝙼𝙰𝙽𝙲𝙴
✨𝚁𝙰𝚃𝙸𝙽𝙶: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️//𝟻
☆༻༺✩༻༺☆༻༺✩༻༺☆
Thank you so much to Katherine Macdonald and BOMM for my review copy of 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗦𝗢𝗨𝗟 𝗜𝗡 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗦𝗪𝗢𝗥𝗗!
AMAZING! This was my first read by Katherine Macdonald, and it absolutely blew me away. The Soul in the Sword is a Fantasy Romance that incorporates Fae mythology with Arthurian Legend. The story itself was so unique and I loved reading about our main characters and their alter egos! This was my first read with a storyline like this, and I loved it so much and thought it was so creative. It really kept me engaged throughout the entirety of the book.
Princess Brianna, aka Celeste, is an awesome and relatable FMC, and she’s always wanted to do more than just be a princess. She was so strong and I loved how brave she was! Then we have Prince Aidan, aka The Red Wolf, as our MMC. He was our charming thief who wanted to be good. These two team up to help stop a mystertious Blight in their Kingdom. Their banter was literally so perfect and hilarious at times, and I really loved the Love Square that was between all the characters and their alter egos. Macdonald did such a great job of navigating this tricky element to the plot and I thought it worked and flowed so well.
Overall, I definitely recommend this to anyone who loves Fae Mythology, Arthurian Legend, and Fantasy Romance with relatable and lovable characters!
I am SO happy that Book 2, The Lady by the Lake, is out now because I will be reading it immediately to find out what happens after the end of this one. This series is available to read on KU and Books 1 and 2 are now available!
✨𝗧𝗥𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗦✨
Love Square
Partners-to-Lovers
Forced Proximity
Allies in a Time of Crisis
Slow Burn
Mistaken/Hidden Identity
Impossible Love
It was Right in Front of You All Along
Charming Thief
Reluctant Hero
☆༻༺✩༻༺☆༻༺✩༻༺☆
✨𝚃𝙷𝙴 𝚂𝙾𝚄𝙻 𝙸𝙽 𝚃𝙷𝙴 𝚂𝚆𝙾𝚁𝙳 𝙱𝚈 𝙺𝙰𝚃𝙷𝙴𝚁𝙸𝙽𝙴 𝙼𝙰𝙲𝙳𝙾𝙽𝙰𝙻𝙳
✨𝙱𝙾𝙾𝙺 𝟷 𝙸𝙽 𝚃𝙷𝙴 𝙰 𝚃𝙷𝚁𝙾𝙽𝙴 𝙾𝙵 𝙿𝙴𝙰𝚁𝙻𝚂 𝙰𝙽𝙳 𝙱𝙾𝙽𝙴𝚂 𝚂𝙴𝚁𝙸𝙴𝚂
✨𝙶𝙴𝙽𝚁𝙴: 𝙵𝙰𝙽𝚃𝙰𝚂𝚈 𝚁𝙾𝙼𝙰𝙽𝙲𝙴
✨𝚁𝙰𝚃𝙸𝙽𝙶: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️//𝟻
☆༻༺✩༻༺☆༻༺✩༻༺☆
Thank you so much to Katherine Macdonald and BOMM for my review copy of 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗦𝗢𝗨𝗟 𝗜𝗡 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗦𝗪𝗢𝗥𝗗!
AMAZING! This was my first read by Katherine Macdonald, and it absolutely blew me away. The Soul in the Sword is a Fantasy Romance that incorporates Fae mythology with Arthurian Legend. The story itself was so unique and I loved reading about our main characters and their alter egos! This was my first read with a storyline like this, and I loved it so much and thought it was so creative. It really kept me engaged throughout the entirety of the book.
Princess Brianna, aka Celeste, is an awesome and relatable FMC, and she’s always wanted to do more than just be a princess. She was so strong and I loved how brave she was! Then we have Prince Aidan, aka The Red Wolf, as our MMC. He was our charming thief who wanted to be good. These two team up to help stop a mystertious Blight in their Kingdom. Their banter was literally so perfect and hilarious at times, and I really loved the Love Square that was between all the characters and their alter egos. Macdonald did such a great job of navigating this tricky element to the plot and I thought it worked and flowed so well.
Overall, I definitely recommend this to anyone who loves Fae Mythology, Arthurian Legend, and Fantasy Romance with relatable and lovable characters!
I am SO happy that Book 2, The Lady by the Lake, is out now because I will be reading it immediately to find out what happens after the end of this one. This series is available to read on KU and Books 1 and 2 are now available!
✨𝗧𝗥𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗦✨
Love Square
Partners-to-Lovers
Forced Proximity
Allies in a Time of Crisis
Slow Burn
Mistaken/Hidden Identity
Impossible Love
It was Right in Front of You All Along
Charming Thief
Reluctant Hero
☆༻༺✩༻༺☆༻༺✩༻༺☆
November 29, 2023
The Soul in the Sword follows four povs from two MCs, that’s right people we get not one but two secret identities and it was so much fun to be in each of their minds until it wasn’t (cough *last few chapters* cough). Bree wields the sword of Celeste, the god who can fight the blight and save the kingdom of Albion. But she isn’t allowed to reveal her identity, not even to the person she wants to, especially not to the people she wants to. As Celeste, she partners with the infamous thief, Red Wolf who steals from the nobles to give them to people in need. (We love him).
Oh did I mention Bree has a secret crush on Prince Aiden, who may or may not be Red Wolf? Bree is me when it comes to making a fool around your crush. The woman quite literally quacks in his presence. That’s not a metaphor; she went full duck and said ‘quack’ on him while ogling his body while they were swimming. I don’t blame the ogling part. We are in this together.
I love her, she was so relatable as a woman with a silly little crush but she was so much more than just falling in love, she knew her strengths and weaknesses. She knew how to use them to her advantage and she was not the one to stay quiet if there was injustice.
My favorite is Prince Aiden. I loved him as Red Wolf. He has gone through so much but is still compassionate and kind. Not letting the darkness corrupt his soul. Man needs some therapy (but don’t we all?) and a big hug because he does need to stop acting like a human shield actively ready to get himself killed.
The biggest USP of this series is relatable characters, be it Bree’s awkwardness around Aiden, Wolf’s self-deprecating humor, Celeste’s hard work, or Aiden’s love for the people who are the closest thing to a family he has.
The first and the second book of the series is out now. Available on KU.
Oh did I mention Bree has a secret crush on Prince Aiden, who may or may not be Red Wolf? Bree is me when it comes to making a fool around your crush. The woman quite literally quacks in his presence. That’s not a metaphor; she went full duck and said ‘quack’ on him while ogling his body while they were swimming. I don’t blame the ogling part. We are in this together.
I love her, she was so relatable as a woman with a silly little crush but she was so much more than just falling in love, she knew her strengths and weaknesses. She knew how to use them to her advantage and she was not the one to stay quiet if there was injustice.
My favorite is Prince Aiden. I loved him as Red Wolf. He has gone through so much but is still compassionate and kind. Not letting the darkness corrupt his soul. Man needs some therapy (but don’t we all?) and a big hug because he does need to stop acting like a human shield actively ready to get himself killed.
The biggest USP of this series is relatable characters, be it Bree’s awkwardness around Aiden, Wolf’s self-deprecating humor, Celeste’s hard work, or Aiden’s love for the people who are the closest thing to a family he has.
The first and the second book of the series is out now. Available on KU.
August 29, 2023
Thank you Booksprout and Katherine MacDonald for letting me read and review an ARC of this book.
I've gotten into MacDonald's work only as recently as July of this year, having read both The Fae of the Forest and Faeries of the Underworld and greatly enjoying both, so I was really looking forward to this series as well. So, how exactly was the first book?
A Throne of Pearls and Bone has been marketed as Miraculous Ladybug with Fae and it shows. While this isn't necessarily a bad thing and I actually like MLB, whenever I was reading about Bree, Aidan, or Viv, I really couldn't help but picture Marinette or Adrian instead of seeing them as their own characters. Still likable, certainly, but a little too similar to the characters who had inspired them for my taste.
Aidan also gets so few chapters compared to Red Wolf that I would've loved to have seen more from his "civilian" PoV as well as more interactions between him and Bree. The dialogue also felt pretty anachronistic at times.
That aside, I still really enjoyed the story. As I said, the main characters are still likable and I'm really looking forward to learning more about the history of this world the most. I also still really enjoyed the interactions between Bree/Celeste and Aidan/Red Wolf, Kay was probably my favorite character and I really liked seeing the disability rep (in his case, deafness) with him, and I also really like how aromanticism and asexuality are at least acknowledged.
So yeah, while not my favorite Katherine MacDonald series so far, there was still plenty to enjoy regardless and I'm looking forward to reading the next installment in the future!
I've gotten into MacDonald's work only as recently as July of this year, having read both The Fae of the Forest and Faeries of the Underworld and greatly enjoying both, so I was really looking forward to this series as well. So, how exactly was the first book?
A Throne of Pearls and Bone has been marketed as Miraculous Ladybug with Fae and it shows. While this isn't necessarily a bad thing and I actually like MLB, whenever I was reading about Bree, Aidan, or Viv, I really couldn't help but picture Marinette or Adrian instead of seeing them as their own characters. Still likable, certainly, but a little too similar to the characters who had inspired them for my taste.
Aidan also gets so few chapters compared to Red Wolf that I would've loved to have seen more from his "civilian" PoV as well as more interactions between him and Bree. The dialogue also felt pretty anachronistic at times.
That aside, I still really enjoyed the story. As I said, the main characters are still likable and I'm really looking forward to learning more about the history of this world the most. I also still really enjoyed the interactions between Bree/Celeste and Aidan/Red Wolf, Kay was probably my favorite character and I really liked seeing the disability rep (in his case, deafness) with him, and I also really like how aromanticism and asexuality are at least acknowledged.
So yeah, while not my favorite Katherine MacDonald series so far, there was still plenty to enjoy regardless and I'm looking forward to reading the next installment in the future!
September 1, 2023
The Kingdom of Albion has worked to get rid of all Fey, including Fey objects, over the last several hundred years. But when the devastating infection known as the Blight returns, the ancient fey warrior of legend returns, the role secretly taken on by Princess Brianna. Teaming up with the Red Wolf, a well-known thief, they begin their quest to rid the land of the Blight. Keeping their identities secret is necessary not only to hide her secret from her father, the King who despises all Fey but also because of a prediction that death will come if they reveal their true identities. But protecting their identities is harder and harder as the two secret identities start to fall for one another, but Brianna's real-life feelings keep her from falling too far. Little does she know, her childhood crush, is not at all different from her Fey one.
I love it. So very very much. It is both what I was expecting and not at all what I was expecting when I heard it described as Miraculous LadyBug meets The Cruel Prince. I have never read The Cruel Prince, but I adore Miraculous Ladybug just as much as my kids. I can't remember reading a square romance before, at least not off the top of my head, but it definitely had me screaming "it's okay, they're the same person!" so many times. As always the banter between characters is on point, and all of the relationships are so good. I love Bri's guard, Vivi, and can't wait to see what an asset to the story she'll be in part two. And I loved the inclusion of Kay and sign language as a form of communication. I'm hoping to see more of Kay's character in part two as well.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review
I love it. So very very much. It is both what I was expecting and not at all what I was expecting when I heard it described as Miraculous LadyBug meets The Cruel Prince. I have never read The Cruel Prince, but I adore Miraculous Ladybug just as much as my kids. I can't remember reading a square romance before, at least not off the top of my head, but it definitely had me screaming "it's okay, they're the same person!" so many times. As always the banter between characters is on point, and all of the relationships are so good. I love Bri's guard, Vivi, and can't wait to see what an asset to the story she'll be in part two. And I loved the inclusion of Kay and sign language as a form of communication. I'm hoping to see more of Kay's character in part two as well.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review
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