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The Crystal Dynasty: A Kingdom Divided
For a millennium, the prosperous land of Ethos revelled in the protection of the Divine Spirit and the unshakeable bond of the Royal Family. But all that changed with a devastating betrayal within the Royal family unit.
In the wake of treachery, the young twins are forced to flee, finding refuge in the care of their mystical grandfather. The looming question is whether he can shield them from the clutches of the ruthless traitor Queen or if the twin's mother, Cecilia, being held prisoner in the castle, can escape to reunite with her children.
Meanwhile, the new Queen, firmly seated on her throne, fixates her ambition on reassembling the long-lost magical crystal shards, scattered across the realm generations ago. If these shards were to fall into the wrong hands, unimaginable chaos would be unleashed.
As the quest to recover the four elusive crystal shards unfolds, the lines between good and evil blur, and a once-unified family finds itself torn asunder. With the fate of Ethos hanging in the balance, who will emerge victorious in this epic struggle?
In the wake of treachery, the young twins are forced to flee, finding refuge in the care of their mystical grandfather. The looming question is whether he can shield them from the clutches of the ruthless traitor Queen or if the twin's mother, Cecilia, being held prisoner in the castle, can escape to reunite with her children.
Meanwhile, the new Queen, firmly seated on her throne, fixates her ambition on reassembling the long-lost magical crystal shards, scattered across the realm generations ago. If these shards were to fall into the wrong hands, unimaginable chaos would be unleashed.
As the quest to recover the four elusive crystal shards unfolds, the lines between good and evil blur, and a once-unified family finds itself torn asunder. With the fate of Ethos hanging in the balance, who will emerge victorious in this epic struggle?
- GenresFantasy
354 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 28, 2024
13 people are currently reading
146 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
September 21, 2024
I haven’t read many stories where you get to read the villain’s POV, it was quite refreshing to watch her slowly unravel and become the monster everyone thought she was.
We actually get a few characters POV’s which did throw me to start with as I’m only used to maybe two different POV’s in a story, this one we get roughly six, if I remember correctly. It was interesting to get more insight, detail and feelings, as each character brought their own uniqueness to the story.
The world building, character development, plot twists and spice were perfect. It’s a beautifully written story that by the end, I was left wanting more.
I look forward to reading the next book, I need to know what’s going to happen next. 🫣😁
We actually get a few characters POV’s which did throw me to start with as I’m only used to maybe two different POV’s in a story, this one we get roughly six, if I remember correctly. It was interesting to get more insight, detail and feelings, as each character brought their own uniqueness to the story.
The world building, character development, plot twists and spice were perfect. It’s a beautifully written story that by the end, I was left wanting more.
I look forward to reading the next book, I need to know what’s going to happen next. 🫣😁
April 8, 2025
Omg! When I tell you that this book is absolutely divine! Probably my favourite read of the year. The emotional backflips I done with following these characters was just stunning. I have never enjoyed a 3rd person perspective book because they just never seem to be written in a way that captivates me but Abigail Mader has perfected it. I love and hate literally ALL of the characters 😅 it’s exquisite! A must read
July 11, 2025
"Hello, Adrian. You've missed all the fun."
Do you want to read a fantasy book where you get the villain's pov and they get more unhinged as the story progresses?
This is the book for you.
I loved everything about this story from the world building, the fighting, the characters. o was hooked from the start and couldnt put this down.
I can't wait to continue on the journey to see were the twins end up and what happens to Elinor.
Do you want to read a fantasy book where you get the villain's pov and they get more unhinged as the story progresses?
This is the book for you.
I loved everything about this story from the world building, the fighting, the characters. o was hooked from the start and couldnt put this down.
I can't wait to continue on the journey to see were the twins end up and what happens to Elinor.
June 6, 2024
✨ARC Review✨
Title: The Crystal Dynasty: A Kingdom Divided
Author: Abigail Mader
Genre: Fantasy
Format: ebook
Publication: 28th June 2024
✨ 4/5
I enjoyed reading this book. The split POV between the villain (Elinor) and victim (Cecelia) gave the story a really interesting feel and added extra a depth to the story.
There’s plenty of world building without it impeding the flow of the story and a solid explanation of the magic system.
The plot flows nicely and at a good pace - without feeling rushed and with plenty of actions. The characters were well developed and we gained a good insight into the personality of each of them.
Be warned if you’re not a fan of spice that there are a couple of open door spicy scenes however the author provides details of these in the content warnings at the start and you could skip these without it impacting your understanding of the story.
Thank you to the author for the eARC in exchange for an honest review. The Crystal Dynasty releases on 28th June 2024 and is available for kindle pre-order now!
✨Blurb
For a millennium, the prosperous land of Ethos revelled in the protection of the Divine Spirit and the unshakeable bond of the Royal Family. But all that changed with a devastating betrayal within the Royal family unit.
In the wake of treachery, the young twins are forced to flee, finding refuge in the care of their mystical grandfather. The looming question is whether he can shield them from the clutches of the ruthless traitor Queen or if the twin's mother, Cecilia, being held prisoner in the castle, can escape to reunite with her children.
Meanwhile, the new Queen, firmly seated on her throne, fixates her ambition on reassembling the long-lost magical crystal shards, scattered across the realm generations ago. If these shards were to fall into the wrong hands, unimaginable chaos would be unleashed.
As the quest to recover the four elusive crystal shards unfolds, the lines between good and evil blur, and a once-unified family finds itself torn asunder. With the fate of Ethos hanging in the balance, who will emerge victorious in this epic struggle?
Title: The Crystal Dynasty: A Kingdom Divided
Author: Abigail Mader
Genre: Fantasy
Format: ebook
Publication: 28th June 2024
✨ 4/5
I enjoyed reading this book. The split POV between the villain (Elinor) and victim (Cecelia) gave the story a really interesting feel and added extra a depth to the story.
There’s plenty of world building without it impeding the flow of the story and a solid explanation of the magic system.
The plot flows nicely and at a good pace - without feeling rushed and with plenty of actions. The characters were well developed and we gained a good insight into the personality of each of them.
Be warned if you’re not a fan of spice that there are a couple of open door spicy scenes however the author provides details of these in the content warnings at the start and you could skip these without it impacting your understanding of the story.
Thank you to the author for the eARC in exchange for an honest review. The Crystal Dynasty releases on 28th June 2024 and is available for kindle pre-order now!
✨Blurb
For a millennium, the prosperous land of Ethos revelled in the protection of the Divine Spirit and the unshakeable bond of the Royal Family. But all that changed with a devastating betrayal within the Royal family unit.
In the wake of treachery, the young twins are forced to flee, finding refuge in the care of their mystical grandfather. The looming question is whether he can shield them from the clutches of the ruthless traitor Queen or if the twin's mother, Cecilia, being held prisoner in the castle, can escape to reunite with her children.
Meanwhile, the new Queen, firmly seated on her throne, fixates her ambition on reassembling the long-lost magical crystal shards, scattered across the realm generations ago. If these shards were to fall into the wrong hands, unimaginable chaos would be unleashed.
As the quest to recover the four elusive crystal shards unfolds, the lines between good and evil blur, and a once-unified family finds itself torn asunder. With the fate of Ethos hanging in the balance, who will emerge victorious in this epic struggle?
July 4, 2024
Thank you 😊 for the Arc.
(My review is my honest opinion)
✨Arc Review✨
It was an amazing ride. The whole thing, every description, the narration, the POV shifts, and the background were all smoothly presented.
The female lead, Elinor was beautifully projected, although her character wasn't exactly a hero, it was understood where she came from. The way her journey was shown, her quest, and her thirst for power, everything was only making her a strong MC. Morally she was a grey character but it was nice to see from this point of view.
And other characters that surrounded her, her allies, her enemies, and her victims were equally important in this whole journey.
I completed this book in 2 days and I was invested. I would like to know what happens in the next part.
Fantasy lovers, go check this book out.
(My review is my honest opinion)
✨Arc Review✨
It was an amazing ride. The whole thing, every description, the narration, the POV shifts, and the background were all smoothly presented.
The female lead, Elinor was beautifully projected, although her character wasn't exactly a hero, it was understood where she came from. The way her journey was shown, her quest, and her thirst for power, everything was only making her a strong MC. Morally she was a grey character but it was nice to see from this point of view.
And other characters that surrounded her, her allies, her enemies, and her victims were equally important in this whole journey.
I completed this book in 2 days and I was invested. I would like to know what happens in the next part.
Fantasy lovers, go check this book out.
May 21, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed this book because its villain—the young, gorgeous, narcissistic, and deceitful sister of the King—plays such a significant role throughout the narrative. Her POV added depth to the story, allowing me to experience a range of emotions—from affection to disdain, empathy to pity, and back to hatred again. The author's portrayal of her is truly exceptional, capturing her complexities in a brilliant manner!
The worldbuilding and magic system in this book are easy to follow, and despite the occasional descriptive passages, the plot moves swiftly, brimming with action right from the start. Each character is well developed; there wasn't a single one I disliked! While I had reservations about Bradley and Adrian at first, they ultimately won me over. I only wish we had more time with King James.
There are a couple of short, open door scenes, which I'd rate as 🌶🌶🌶🌶/5. Personally, I'm not a fan of such content, so I opted to skip over those parts. However, skipping them didn't detract from my enjoyment of the story.
Usually, it takes me about three days to finish a book of around 300 pages, but I devoured this one in less than two days! I was so engrossed in the story that I didn't want it to end. Now, the wait for book two begins. If you're a fantasy enthusiast, I highly recommend diving into this book!
The Crystal Dynasty is available from June 28 but you can preorder the Kindle version.
The author kindly provided me with the ARC of this book, but all opinions are my own. The ARC in no way impacts the rating of the book. All of my reviews contain my honest opinions.
The worldbuilding and magic system in this book are easy to follow, and despite the occasional descriptive passages, the plot moves swiftly, brimming with action right from the start. Each character is well developed; there wasn't a single one I disliked! While I had reservations about Bradley and Adrian at first, they ultimately won me over. I only wish we had more time with King James.
There are a couple of short, open door scenes, which I'd rate as 🌶🌶🌶🌶/5. Personally, I'm not a fan of such content, so I opted to skip over those parts. However, skipping them didn't detract from my enjoyment of the story.
Usually, it takes me about three days to finish a book of around 300 pages, but I devoured this one in less than two days! I was so engrossed in the story that I didn't want it to end. Now, the wait for book two begins. If you're a fantasy enthusiast, I highly recommend diving into this book!
The Crystal Dynasty is available from June 28 but you can preorder the Kindle version.
The author kindly provided me with the ARC of this book, but all opinions are my own. The ARC in no way impacts the rating of the book. All of my reviews contain my honest opinions.
September 21, 2024
This book was my first ARC review, and I'm so glad it was.
This book has a strong theme of family loyalty, corruption, betrayal, changing power dynamics, mystical powers, and revenge.
Written mainly from the villainous evil Queen Elinor's perspective, but also having chapters written from multiple other character's POV's, this story will have you on the edge of your seat and questioning who you side with.
You know Elinor is in the wrong and completely unhinged, yet she is written in a way that she still seems relatable, at times vulnerable, and sometimes you can understand her frustrations, despite her psychopathic tendencies.
There are some very loveable side characters in this book (I'm especially looking at you, Grandpa George), and beautiful place settings and a few nice spicy scenes!
This is a very well written story at a steady pace that builds into a crescendo of anarchy, chaos, and fear that leaves you wanting more! I will definitely be reading the second book when it is completed!
Highly recommend! 4/5
This book has a strong theme of family loyalty, corruption, betrayal, changing power dynamics, mystical powers, and revenge.
Written mainly from the villainous evil Queen Elinor's perspective, but also having chapters written from multiple other character's POV's, this story will have you on the edge of your seat and questioning who you side with.
You know Elinor is in the wrong and completely unhinged, yet she is written in a way that she still seems relatable, at times vulnerable, and sometimes you can understand her frustrations, despite her psychopathic tendencies.
There are some very loveable side characters in this book (I'm especially looking at you, Grandpa George), and beautiful place settings and a few nice spicy scenes!
This is a very well written story at a steady pace that builds into a crescendo of anarchy, chaos, and fear that leaves you wanting more! I will definitely be reading the second book when it is completed!
Highly recommend! 4/5
July 6, 2024
What a debut! Loved it so much I'm purchasing the physical copy for my trophy shelf!
A villain as a MC? We love that! Written from a unique perspective, that's for sure and we all hate to love the villain. Elinor was beautifully written.
This fantasy novel will capture you and make sure you're in for the ride. The world and character building was absolutely there, but it wasn't too detailed that you end up confused, which is *chefs kiss*.
A villain as a MC? We love that! Written from a unique perspective, that's for sure and we all hate to love the villain. Elinor was beautifully written.
This fantasy novel will capture you and make sure you're in for the ride. The world and character building was absolutely there, but it wasn't too detailed that you end up confused, which is *chefs kiss*.
May 25, 2024
I thought this book was excellent. Having never read the fantasy genre before, I found this book to be perfect. The fantasy world that Ms. Mader has created is perfect and I can see it in my mind's eye. Characters like Elinor, & Jacob and Aevah will keep wanting to read future installments of this series.
June 28, 2024
I love this book. I really enjoyed reading it and fell into a love hate relationship with the villain. The characters are so well written that even the bad ones tend to be likeable. The twists and turns were great and it was so easy to read and follow. This is such a great book. Definitely worth reading!!! You need to get it and follow the author. She’s amazing and her writing is just beautiful.
July 4, 2024
wow this was so different in an amazing way. This whole book is written with the villain as the MC and I honestly don't know if I've ever read that before. Her descent into madness was done exceptionally. I had no idea what was going to happen next and I still have no idea which twists and turns the next book is going to have. I am so intrigued to see where this goes.
June 13, 2024
I enjoyed delving into the world of the crystal dynasty. The author builds the world and characters beautifully. There are a couple of spicy scenes. Excited to read the next book.
Thanks for the eARC
Thanks for the eARC
June 25, 2024
This was very well written
I enjoyed the dual POV and the strong character and world building.
It has spice which was phenomenally written.
I enjoyed reading this and it was definitely a change of pace for me!
I enjoyed the dual POV and the strong character and world building.
It has spice which was phenomenally written.
I enjoyed reading this and it was definitely a change of pace for me!
June 27, 2024
What a fantastic debut fantasy from Abbie Mader. I loved this book so much. Of course, I bought the physical copy!!
It was so good being back in the land of fantasy. The world building characters and the magic system were intriguing, engaging, and the whole book even with the evil queen, and her reign was just a feel-good fantasy. Would love to read more of Abbies stories
It was so good being back in the land of fantasy. The world building characters and the magic system were intriguing, engaging, and the whole book even with the evil queen, and her reign was just a feel-good fantasy. Would love to read more of Abbies stories
December 29, 2024
I wish I had read this before all the festive commitments so that I could have read it quicker!
I love the characters and their world. It was very interesting to have the varied PoVs in this book as it gives a lot of insight into motivations and character changes.
The story is so well thought out and not rushed, I simply want more…
I love the characters and their world. It was very interesting to have the varied PoVs in this book as it gives a lot of insight into motivations and character changes.
The story is so well thought out and not rushed, I simply want more…
December 27, 2025
Atmospheric and methodical, this book lays the groundwork for a far-reaching epic fantasy.
June 20, 2024
I really had to sit down and think about this review before I wrote it. This book was amazing and the twins were definitely my favorite characters. It did take me until about 35% to really be committed but I can't confidently say if that was the books fault or because I was in a book hangover from the last book. Especially because once I got into it I couldn't stop (ask her about the crazy messages I sent her) 😍
June 11, 2024
What a ride! I absolutely love this book. The fact that we see so much of the antagonists' side of the story is really exciting.
The story is intense, and the writing is so descriptive that I can visualize it as a movie.
This is such a strong first book of a series, I can't wait to see how it continues!
The story is intense, and the writing is so descriptive that I can visualize it as a movie.
This is such a strong first book of a series, I can't wait to see how it continues!
December 24, 2024
Abigail Mader’s The Crystal Dynasty: A Kingdom Divided is a captivating fantasy tale of betrayal, resilience, and the fierce determination of a dethroned queen. Set in the richly imagined land of Ethos, this novel takes readers on a thrilling journey through a kingdom fractured by greed and ambition.
The story’s foundation—a royal betrayal that shatters the peace of Ethos—is gripping and sets the stage for a tale steeped in intrigue and high stakes. Elinor, the cunning and ruthless usurper, is a formidable antagonist whose relentless pursuit of power keeps the tension high throughout the book.
At the heart of the story is Cecilia, the dethroned queen, whose resilience and determination to protect her children and save her kingdom are both inspiring and deeply emotional. Her journey of hope and courage, sparked by the discovery that her twins are alive, is the beating heart of the narrative. The twins’ story, under the care of their mystical grandfather, adds a layer of wonder and suspense as they navigate a dangerous world shaped by their lineage.
Mader’s world-building is vivid and immersive, with the magical shards of Ethos and the Divine Spirit adding depth and intrigue to the kingdom’s lore. The dynamics between the characters—particularly the contrast between Cecilia’s selflessness and Elinor’s ruthlessness—are well-crafted and keep readers invested in their fates.
However, the novel occasionally feels rushed, especially in pivotal moments where more emotional depth or exploration of the world’s lore would have enhanced the story’s impact. While the pacing keeps the plot moving, some sections could benefit from greater detail to fully immerse readers in the stakes and relationships.
Despite these minor issues, The Crystal Dynasty: A Kingdom Divided is a compelling fantasy novel that combines a high-stakes plot with emotional depth and well-drawn characters. Abigail Mader has crafted a tale of courage, sacrifice, and the enduring bonds of family that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next chapter in this epic saga. Highly recommended for fans of court intrigue, magical quests, and strong heroines.
The story’s foundation—a royal betrayal that shatters the peace of Ethos—is gripping and sets the stage for a tale steeped in intrigue and high stakes. Elinor, the cunning and ruthless usurper, is a formidable antagonist whose relentless pursuit of power keeps the tension high throughout the book.
At the heart of the story is Cecilia, the dethroned queen, whose resilience and determination to protect her children and save her kingdom are both inspiring and deeply emotional. Her journey of hope and courage, sparked by the discovery that her twins are alive, is the beating heart of the narrative. The twins’ story, under the care of their mystical grandfather, adds a layer of wonder and suspense as they navigate a dangerous world shaped by their lineage.
Mader’s world-building is vivid and immersive, with the magical shards of Ethos and the Divine Spirit adding depth and intrigue to the kingdom’s lore. The dynamics between the characters—particularly the contrast between Cecilia’s selflessness and Elinor’s ruthlessness—are well-crafted and keep readers invested in their fates.
However, the novel occasionally feels rushed, especially in pivotal moments where more emotional depth or exploration of the world’s lore would have enhanced the story’s impact. While the pacing keeps the plot moving, some sections could benefit from greater detail to fully immerse readers in the stakes and relationships.
Despite these minor issues, The Crystal Dynasty: A Kingdom Divided is a compelling fantasy novel that combines a high-stakes plot with emotional depth and well-drawn characters. Abigail Mader has crafted a tale of courage, sacrifice, and the enduring bonds of family that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next chapter in this epic saga. Highly recommended for fans of court intrigue, magical quests, and strong heroines.
July 30, 2025
🌟🌟🌟🌟💫 (4.5 stars)
Wow—what a ride!
The Crystal Dynasty is a gripping, emotionally rich fantasy debut that hooked me right from the start. Abigail Mader wastes no time throwing you into a world of betrayal, power struggles, and shattered families, and I couldn’t put it down.
The story opens with one of the most chilling villain moves I’ve read in a while—Elinor killing her brother to steal the crown. From there, it’s a whirlwind of action and tension. I loved how the book gave us Elinor’s POV. She’s twisted, ruthless, and fascinating in all the best ways. Seeing the story unfold through her eyes, along with several others (including Queen Cecilia, her imprisoned sister), gave the whole kingdom so much depth and drama.
The magic system based around the crystal shards was unique, and I enjoyed how it tied into the royal lineage and power. There’s a lot of emotional weight here too—loss, hope, and the fight for family all run through the story beautifully. I especially loved Cecilia’s quiet strength and the way the twin storyline slowly unraveled.
Be warned: there are some heavy scenes (torture, violence, and some spice), but they felt purposeful and grounded in the high stakes of the world.
Overall, this is a fantastic start to a series. If you love morally grey characters, layered POVs, and fantasy with real emotional punch, definitely give this a read. I’m already looking forward to Book 2!
Wow—what a ride!
The Crystal Dynasty is a gripping, emotionally rich fantasy debut that hooked me right from the start. Abigail Mader wastes no time throwing you into a world of betrayal, power struggles, and shattered families, and I couldn’t put it down.
The story opens with one of the most chilling villain moves I’ve read in a while—Elinor killing her brother to steal the crown. From there, it’s a whirlwind of action and tension. I loved how the book gave us Elinor’s POV. She’s twisted, ruthless, and fascinating in all the best ways. Seeing the story unfold through her eyes, along with several others (including Queen Cecilia, her imprisoned sister), gave the whole kingdom so much depth and drama.
The magic system based around the crystal shards was unique, and I enjoyed how it tied into the royal lineage and power. There’s a lot of emotional weight here too—loss, hope, and the fight for family all run through the story beautifully. I especially loved Cecilia’s quiet strength and the way the twin storyline slowly unraveled.
Be warned: there are some heavy scenes (torture, violence, and some spice), but they felt purposeful and grounded in the high stakes of the world.
Overall, this is a fantastic start to a series. If you love morally grey characters, layered POVs, and fantasy with real emotional punch, definitely give this a read. I’m already looking forward to Book 2!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 23, 2025
The Crystal Dynasty: A Kingdom Divided is a dark fantasy with twists, turns and incredible POV changes.
We follow in the footsteps of an array of characters embroiled in a hostile and brutal takeover of a kingdom. Each character has their own story, showing their importance (no matter how small) that they have to the overarching story. But what is compelling and intriguing is that the villain has her own POV. There is something special about being in the head of the one person causing all of the turmoil and her reasoning behind it and also watching her unravel as the pages turn.
You'll find yourself uncertain who to trust, be on the edge of your seat as escape plans are enacted and have your heart in your throat as it all comes together.
If you enjoy:
⚔️ revenge
⚔️ exciting escapes
⚔️ betrayal and loss
⚔️ strong FMC's
⚔️ magic infused world
⚔️ politics and twists and turns
⚔️ ruthless and cold queen
Then you need to check this one out! Book 2 is coming soon... I can't wait to see where Abigail takes us!
We follow in the footsteps of an array of characters embroiled in a hostile and brutal takeover of a kingdom. Each character has their own story, showing their importance (no matter how small) that they have to the overarching story. But what is compelling and intriguing is that the villain has her own POV. There is something special about being in the head of the one person causing all of the turmoil and her reasoning behind it and also watching her unravel as the pages turn.
You'll find yourself uncertain who to trust, be on the edge of your seat as escape plans are enacted and have your heart in your throat as it all comes together.
If you enjoy:
⚔️ revenge
⚔️ exciting escapes
⚔️ betrayal and loss
⚔️ strong FMC's
⚔️ magic infused world
⚔️ politics and twists and turns
⚔️ ruthless and cold queen
Then you need to check this one out! Book 2 is coming soon... I can't wait to see where Abigail takes us!
June 25, 2024
I had the pleasure of being on Abigail's ARC team for her debut novel.
The Crystal Dynasty is an epic fantasy that follows the fallout of a brutal uprising.
When Elinor is overlooked for the crown in favour of her younger brother, she leaves her kingdom, only to return four years later to take her rightful (in her opinion) place on the throne.
Elinor was the stand-out character for me. While her actions were deplorable, I could see how she got to where she was at the beginning of the book, and I wasn't completely convinced by the "goodness" of the other characters. Don't get me wrong, they didn't deserve what happened to them but they didn't try to see things from her view before she lost her sh*t.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and I look forward to seeing how Elinor develops as a character from here.
The Crystal Dynasty will be released on 28 June 2024 and is book one in a series.
The Crystal Dynasty is an epic fantasy that follows the fallout of a brutal uprising.
When Elinor is overlooked for the crown in favour of her younger brother, she leaves her kingdom, only to return four years later to take her rightful (in her opinion) place on the throne.
Elinor was the stand-out character for me. While her actions were deplorable, I could see how she got to where she was at the beginning of the book, and I wasn't completely convinced by the "goodness" of the other characters. Don't get me wrong, they didn't deserve what happened to them but they didn't try to see things from her view before she lost her sh*t.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and I look forward to seeing how Elinor develops as a character from here.
The Crystal Dynasty will be released on 28 June 2024 and is book one in a series.
July 3, 2024
An ARC reader review.
A big thanks to Abigail for allowing me to be an ARC reader for her first book.
I found the story to be an easy read and the prose excellent. It's full of fantasy tropes, magic, castles, balls, and what a reader would expect. The descriptions of the characters, places, environment, etc. gave me a clear vision of the world and scenes. I do think the descriptions were overdone much of the time and slowed the pace of the book down.
The book has the antagonist as the main character which is a twist to hate who the story follows. The likeable characters, the heroes I want to identify with are minor. However, this is but the first book in a series and thus the author left me the reader hanging as to what would occur when the next book is released.
If you're into spice, the scenes in this book will satisfy you. If not then skip them as nothing is left for me to imagine.
A good book by a new author.
A big thanks to Abigail for allowing me to be an ARC reader for her first book.
I found the story to be an easy read and the prose excellent. It's full of fantasy tropes, magic, castles, balls, and what a reader would expect. The descriptions of the characters, places, environment, etc. gave me a clear vision of the world and scenes. I do think the descriptions were overdone much of the time and slowed the pace of the book down.
The book has the antagonist as the main character which is a twist to hate who the story follows. The likeable characters, the heroes I want to identify with are minor. However, this is but the first book in a series and thus the author left me the reader hanging as to what would occur when the next book is released.
If you're into spice, the scenes in this book will satisfy you. If not then skip them as nothing is left for me to imagine.
A good book by a new author.
September 14, 2024
If you’re a fan of fantasy with a bit of romance, it’s a must read! We get an unusual perspective having the story be told from the villain’s point of view. Elinor is the villain we hate to love; but she does it so well. She really leaves you wondering who’s side to be on. We also get some of the POV’s of the other characters. There are two spicy scenes (about a 3.5/5 spice), but they can be skipped if you’re not into that and you won’t lose part of the story (it’s listed in the context warning and tells you how to successfully skip them). I appreciate that the author gets right to the action without wasting a ton of time with world building and character development. That being said, you don’t feel like you’re missing anything. It’s still there, just done in a more naturally occurring way which I like. It gave me old-school, classic fantasy vibes which I loved. Overall, a really great fantasy adventure. I can’t wait to see where the story goes.
September 14, 2025
The Crystal Dynasty drew me in from the very first pages and kept me engaged right through to the end.
I’ll admit, I picked up both this book and its sequel after seeing them on Bookstagram, the covers are absolutely stunning (yes, I’m someone who happily chooses books by their covers!).
What I found inside was just as compelling. The story took unexpected turns, blending fairytale elements with darker threads of betrayal, political intrigue, and magical lore. I found myself deeply invested in the unfolding events, torn between fascination with the complex power dynamics and the hope that light and justice would prevail.
The writing kept me on edge in the best way, especially during the tense and emotional moments of flight and survival. It left me eager to dive straight into book two to see where this journey leads.
I’m glad I trusted my instincts on this one, it turned out to be such a captivating and memorable read.
I’ll admit, I picked up both this book and its sequel after seeing them on Bookstagram, the covers are absolutely stunning (yes, I’m someone who happily chooses books by their covers!).
What I found inside was just as compelling. The story took unexpected turns, blending fairytale elements with darker threads of betrayal, political intrigue, and magical lore. I found myself deeply invested in the unfolding events, torn between fascination with the complex power dynamics and the hope that light and justice would prevail.
The writing kept me on edge in the best way, especially during the tense and emotional moments of flight and survival. It left me eager to dive straight into book two to see where this journey leads.
I’m glad I trusted my instincts on this one, it turned out to be such a captivating and memorable read.
November 13, 2025
Crystal Dynasty had a lot of potential, especially in terms of world-building and the larger ideas woven through the plot. There are glimpses of a fascinating setting and moments where you can see the story aiming for big, dramatic beats.
However, the pacing made it difficult for me to stay fully engaged. The story took a long time to unfold, and at times it felt like not much was happening. This slower momentum, combined with shifts in tone, left the narrative feeling a bit disjointed. I also struggled to connect with the characters, partly because the point of view kept me at a distance rather than drawing me into their inner world.
That said, I can see the foundations of something strong here—readers who enjoy detailed world-building or more gradual, atmospheric fantasy might find more to love. For me, it just didn’t quite land, but I appreciate the ambition and creativity behind it.
However, the pacing made it difficult for me to stay fully engaged. The story took a long time to unfold, and at times it felt like not much was happening. This slower momentum, combined with shifts in tone, left the narrative feeling a bit disjointed. I also struggled to connect with the characters, partly because the point of view kept me at a distance rather than drawing me into their inner world.
That said, I can see the foundations of something strong here—readers who enjoy detailed world-building or more gradual, atmospheric fantasy might find more to love. For me, it just didn’t quite land, but I appreciate the ambition and creativity behind it.
September 10, 2025
A fast-paced, action fantasy with vivid and highly detailed world building of the land of Ethos. Told from multiple points of view, one of which is the villain, the beautiful but traitorous Queen Elinor ruthlessly overthrows her brother, King James, having him killed and his wife Cecelia imprisoned. Elinor desires ultimate power, searching for the crystal shards that will provide it. But the one crystal she possesses, sends her spiralling into darkness and madness as the power becomes all consuming. The fate of the land of Ethos is on a knife-edge while Elinor is at the helm. The former King’s wife, Cecelia, escapes Elinor’s clutches and embarks of a courageous journey in search of her missing children and the opportunity for revenge. A highly entertaining read!
However, be warned - there are some open-door spicy scenes as foreshadowed by the author.
However, be warned - there are some open-door spicy scenes as foreshadowed by the author.
January 19, 2025
“I will break her”
The Crystal Dynasty is a wonderful story with an incredibly creative and intriguing plot. I absolutely adored the idea of following the journey of the villain, and the slow descent into madness that follows. I found Elinor to be a likeable character to be in the company of for most of the story, despite her villainy (wonder what that says about me, haha). I also really enjoyed the dialogue of the story and thought that this was a really strong element of Abigail’s writing. There were some killer lines in here. Punchy, emotionally wrought and cinematic. I always had great imagery in my head while reading.
The Crystal Dynasty is a wonderful story with an incredibly creative and intriguing plot. I absolutely adored the idea of following the journey of the villain, and the slow descent into madness that follows. I found Elinor to be a likeable character to be in the company of for most of the story, despite her villainy (wonder what that says about me, haha). I also really enjoyed the dialogue of the story and thought that this was a really strong element of Abigail’s writing. There were some killer lines in here. Punchy, emotionally wrought and cinematic. I always had great imagery in my head while reading.
February 2, 2025
You get a lot of different POV's in the story. One I was not expecting was to have the villain as much as we did. We really got to see her become the monster that she wanted to be. When it comes to the world building you pretty much get the perfect amount. It is just enough to understand what is happening but not too much that it is confusing. The plot was good, it flowed nicely and had a good timeline. Gave four stars because some of what happens was a little predictable but still was a good read!
I am so interested in seeing what comes about with the twins in the next book. Can't wait to read the next book!
I am so interested in seeing what comes about with the twins in the next book. Can't wait to read the next book!
March 8, 2025
*The Crystal Dynasty: A Kingdom Divided* had everything I love in fantasy—political intrigue, powerful magic, immersive world-building and characters who keep you hooked. Elinor's character is particularly compelling; her transformation and moral ambiguity make her a standout figure in the plot. She was such a ruthless and calculating villain, always one step ahead, which kept the stakes high. A few parts had me wanting more, but overall, it is a solid fantasy read that offers a fresh perspective by delving into the villain's viewpoint. Definitely recommend if you love royal drama, high-stakes magic, and a villain you love to hate!
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