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Heirs of Esran #2

The Princess of Maremer

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The Tyrant King is dead, but Esran is far from being at peace.

After the Battle of Maremer, Relaina Andovier finds herself burdened with magic that no one seems to understand. Without Darren’s help, she cannot control it and risks immeasurable pain as light and dark clash within her.

While they await news from Parea and strive to help King Fabian restore peace in Evaria, three Terranian nobles arrive with a proposal that could alter their lives forever. Darren must decide which path he will take before another potential tyrant seizes power in Terrana, and though Relaina knows she has a part to play in the conflict to come, a heart torn between three nations cannot serve them all equally.

Even as Esran grows more volatile and political tensions rise, Relaina and Darren resolve to face whatever comes together. But a new, powerful enemy is at work in the shadows, determined to achieve their own narrow vision for Esran’s future.

And Relaina is standing in their way.

444 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 12, 2024

4 people are currently reading
76 people want to read

About the author

Hayley Turner

3 books56 followers
Hayley Turner is a writer and composer from North Carolina. Her favorite stories blend fantasy, magic, romance, and epic adventures for an overall “fairytale for adults” feel, and that’s exactly what she seeks to capture in her own books. When she isn’t writing books or music, she can be found playing videogames, eating good food with even better friends, or cuddling with her dog, Leia, or her void goblin cat, Nyx.

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16 (32%)
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
Profile Image for Paola.
113 reviews37 followers
November 22, 2024
Holy *@!!

First of all, major props to the author for including a quick recap of the first book at the beginning of this one, and also for the glossary, the map, the songs, and chapter titles — all of the things I absolutely love in fantasy books and, honestly, don't see enough of!

The author jumped right into it with this one! We are provided action immediately as the story quickly progresses. I was on the edge of my seat during so many scenes! There's a new villain, keeping the plot moving and adding more complications for the main characters. I loved these new aspects of the story. Some things were explained, but some remained unknown, making me excited for the next book and more information!

While the plot is very well developed, complex, and kept me engaged throughout the whole book, the characters are what really sell this for me. I hope the next book is going to be them simply enjoying themselves, without any threats looming over their heads, because they went through *enough* in these two books! (Partially kidding; I'm actually a sucker for these scenes filled with angst, rage and fear where someone is always on the brink of death. 😌) These characters feel incredibly real, and I loved their development in this book — how they explored their magic and how much stronger they are.

I would definitely recommend this series, especially if you love high stakes, a lot of amazingly executed fighting scenes, strong and sassy characters, shadow magic and much more!

A huge thank you to the author for sending me an ARC of this book!
Profile Image for Jen Woodrum.
Author 4 books113 followers
January 2, 2025
I loved the first book in this series, The Prince of Terrana, so I knew I would love the sequel!! Turner has such a gift for creating spunky, loveable characters, a rich and immersive fantasy world, and page-turning tension.

I loved seeing the relationship between Relaina and Darren expand. The 🌶️ scenes were *chefs kiss* and made the romance shine. The excitement at the end made the last 20% go so fast! The MAGIC!!!

I also loved that Hayley included a synopsis of the first book at the start. Thank you for that Hayley!!!
Profile Image for Caitys.Pages.
33 reviews3 followers
December 4, 2024
The Princess of Maremer by Hayley Turner has been an excellent continuation to her debut novel The Prince of Terrana. The characters and plot ever evolving and changing for the better. The growth is truly evident not just in the characters or story but in Hayleys writing style. She is quickly becoming one of my most favorite authors and I can NOT wait for the rest of the series!!!!!

The excellent balance of world building and character building was phenomenal, utilizing the well plotted out world detail from the first novel to only grow and explore even further really puts you smack dab in the middle of this epic adventure! One of the best things within this sequel is the deeper dive into light and dark magic, getting to know and understand even more from what had been hinted and I personally cannot wait to learn even more about this super in depth and intense magic system.

She also continues to dive into each character peeling back their layers and bringing them to life on the page. Of course our favorites are present such as Damien and Fabian but we also see new characters and villains that tell their tales. Just be prepared to feel all the feels! Even the side's side characters have depth which is truly astounding.

For those looking for healthy relationships this book has it and digs even deeper, getting a little spicier. To be frank the adult relations actually feel real and not over exaggerated which is a nice change in pace! I enjoy smut like any other person but these adult situations just feel more real but still just as epic.

The all in all is this is a must have book! If you enjoy magic, romance, Epic adventures, political intrigue and action, light spice you will absolutely love this book! They are worth the price and a must have collectable for you book dragons out there!
Profile Image for Maloree Anderson.
Author 1 book5 followers
October 4, 2024
Hayley Turner did it again, if not better. I was gripped by the intense scenes and the moments of relief. This book had me screaming and hyperventilating and swooning. The magic is more complex, the stakes are higher, and the spice is spicen'. I absolutely can't wait until book three.
Profile Image for Mikayla.
2 reviews
September 25, 2024
This book gave me all the feels. Excitement, anxiety, sadness, anger... loved it can't wait for the next book!!!
2 reviews
October 12, 2024
[Disclaimer]: I was lucky enough to get an advance reader copy of this book, and that's what this review is based on. I wasn't compensated for this review in any way, and the author hasn't read this review before I posted it.

The Princess of Maremer is an excellent continuation of the characters and events we met in Hayley Turner’s previous book: The Prince of Terrana. If you've already read TPoT then you will already know how much time and effort has been put into these characters, and you won't be disappointed at all in the ways that they continue to grow and evolve. Ms Turner's writing style has been polished to a fine shine here, and the way that she dives into the emotions and motivations of a vibrant cast of characters is extremely rewarding to the reader. While there is still a degree of playfulness and banter for the main characters, we find that their relationships have deepened further and there are a lot more nuances to their interactions. Additionally, if you enjoy some of the ::ahem:: hotter moments of the first book, you'll be pleased to learn that those have made it over to this sequel as well, and that they are even spicier.

One of the best things about this second book in the Heirs of Esran series, is that we get to see a lot more of the nuances between light and dark that were being hinted at in TPoT. Genuine effort has been taken to humanize and elaborate on the motivations for the Terranians, and it's nice to not just have opponents who are evil just for the sake of it. Additional care went into showing that zealotry on both sides can have terrible consequences. I'm just definitely here for this combination of finding the light in the dark and the dark in the light. Also, the supporting cast of characters is very wholesome and I don't want to spoil anything...but there's a cute kitten. I will always give a thumbs up for cute kittens or puppies.

Unrelated to the kitten, there is a ton of action in this book, and it all has very visceral and powerful descriptions. Characters certainly take their fair share of beatings in here, and that makes a lot of sense considering the backdrop of political intrigue and outright war. There are both obvious and subtle dangers in these pages, so if you're also a fan of adventure then I think you'll get a kick out of it. I certainly felt a lot of excitement reading some of these scenes, and there were several moments where I couldn't put the book down even though I knew I was past a reasonable time for bed.

The upshot of all of this, is that if you liked TPoT, you will love this book. If you like romance or fantasy, you will love this book. If you love political intrigue and action, you will love this book. There's a lot to love here. Do yourself a favor and get both books in the series, they're absolutely worth the price and I'm confident that you'll want to revisit these characters for a second read-through before long.
Profile Image for Briana Coffelt.
33 reviews3 followers
November 13, 2024
The Princess of Maremer is the second book in the Heirs of Esran series and let me tell you, I WAS NOT READY. First of all, do you see that cover art? Stunning.

The Prince of Terrana ends with such a tense conclusion and TPoM picks right up where you left off. You don’t have to wait for the action, it hits quick! I was simultaneously super invested in all of the multiple POVs and love every one of these characters. If you liked Throne of Glass for its adventure, diverse magic, bad guys doing evil bad guy things, and strong FMCs, you’ll love this series!!!


Small details I loved:
🗡️ Adorable cinnamon roll with shadow powers 🥵
🖤 PETS!!!! 🥹
🗡️ Delicious feminine rage, because we all need that in our lives right now.
🖤 Insane politics, royal court drama
🗡️ Unique magic system and characters
🖤 Diverse characters and relationships
🗡️ Deep, complex character arcs
🖤 Hilarious (and spicy) banter 🙃


In depth review:
It’s so obvious that every single detail was well thought out and that real work went into building this world and these characters. Everything is so purposeful and I can’t wait to see how all of these details come together in the end. 👀😊

One thing that caught my attention immediately in The Prince of Terrana was how absolutely hilarious the banter between Relaina and Darren was and I’m so glad that they didn’t lose that in this second book! The pacing felt natural and on par with book 1. I loved that the main characters had to learn and grow and make sacrifices rather than everything being naturally easy for them. The spicy scenes got a whooooolleee lot spicier this book, so you have that to look forward to. 😊 overall, such a good read and I can’t wait to see what comes next!!
Profile Image for S.M. Pearce.
Author 3 books16 followers
March 11, 2025
I am so beyond obsessed with this book.

Relaina and Darren remain the ultimate badass romantic duo, and I just adored watching their relationship continue to unfold. They are true ride or dies, and I rooted for them every step of the way.

Their magical connection is incredibly compelling, especially with the complex emotions Relaina has to navigate surrounding her own magical capabilities, and their physical connections are just as exciting to read - their chemistry is off the charts in spicy scenes, while always remaining grounded to their characters.

Relaina’s other interpersonal relationships and drama (I won’t name them for spoilers’ sake) are absolutely devastating in the best ways, and one scene in particular is a gut punch I will forever be reeling from. If you like books to deliver hurt, comfort, and more hurt, then look no further, because TPOM simultaneously gave me a big hug and yanked my heart out of my chest. This book will have you kicking your feet and twirling your hair one minute, then scream-sobbing the next.

The villain of this book has become an all-time favourite. Who doesn’t love deeply disturbed villains with personal vendettas? Combine that with religious fanaticism, terrifying magical power, political intrigue, and dialogue so enthralling I needed reminders not to join the side of evil… The perfect spine-tingling antagonist.

The Princess of Maremer should be on every romantasy fan’s shelf, and I cannot recommend it enough. I could ramble on, but a re-read is calling me.
Profile Image for Megan Lynae Green.
Author 3 books4 followers
November 8, 2024
Before diving into my thoughts, I want to thank Hayley Turner for my ARC copy, all opinions are my own.
First, what I liked. Jeremiah and Fabian are back! They continue to be my favorites in this series. Every scene with them makes my heart happy.
Relaina and Darren go through some interesting developments as well. I was particularly intrigued to see Darren figuring out his new relationship with his kingdom.
Something Hayley Turner excels at is making characters develop both in and outside their relationships. Not all books can pull that off.
Now, as for why this review is 3 stars, I’ll just say I did enjoy the book. But despite all the action, this book felt a bit slower compared to the first. This book has a lot more focus on politics and magic training. For whatever reason, many of these scenes just didn’t click with me. Also, I wish the book had elaborated more on the mysterious woman we meet at the start.
I’m curious to see where the next book takes these characters and discover the answers to my lingering questions. Overall, this sequel was a nice time.
77 reviews2 followers
November 15, 2024
Ohhhhh and just like that Hayley did it again, took all my words...

I was already excited for this book once I finished the first and ohhhhh this went beyond my expectations, it's was so so good.
It kept the intensity and suspense with the adventure and still that delicate touch from the first but elevated the level - It gave us more to think on, more questions, some heartbreak, some questions and a lot to look forward once more.

I love to be able to keep discovering more about the characters that I love and find new ones and to be on their side through thick and thin, through all the heartbreak and happiness...
Loved to see the haooy reunionions of some of the characters and families and to see how they all changed through each other's eyes, and that you can see that at some point nothing more matters and just that they are together - what a beautiful thing to see.

Now, the way the story is going let me tell you... I just can't wait, I am so so excited and need to read more about it and how they gonna take the present challenge.
Profile Image for Chas Minton.
33 reviews
July 1, 2025
Absolutely loved this book!!! A great second book in what’s becoming a wonderful series. I would like to start off by saying THANK YOU to Hayley for including a recap at the start of the book - I really appreciate when authors do that, and it helps so so much.

I really love all of the characters in this book & I love that we get to see different perspectives and POVs from everyone, not just our MCs. It fleshes the book out so nicely and it makes me more in love with all of the characters because I feel like I truly get to know them more. The book itself is heavy in the aspect of war and politics - and lots of it!!! I feel like this one was a bit harder for me to dig my nails into than the first one, but once it picked up it PICKED UP THE PACE. That being said - Part one was a little slow but part two seriously packed some punches.

Overall, a great story and a great follow up to the first book. I’m really excited to see what happens in the next book, and I can’t wait to read more about my favorite characters.
Profile Image for Lumie.
643 reviews2 followers
November 19, 2024
Thank you to Hayley Turner for the ARC.

Plot 4.5/5
Characters 4.5/5
Ending 4/5
Interest 4.5/5

Overall 4.25/5

-I had to think quite a bit on what had last happened in this series. I was really glad that there was a short reminder at the beginning but I still felt a little lost at first. It did end up being alright for me but there were elements which I was sort of confused about until I remembered it was mentioned in the first book. In this book specifically I found the plot quite interesting because we really get to see the evolution of the world and it affected everything and everyone. The claim to the throne and the marriage elements are also really intriguing.

-I still quite like the characters. There are a few which I had forgotten about and still exactly remember everything bout them but still in this book, it was explained who they were without it being too explicit so as to be a first introduction to them. I do wish that the romance was a bit more slow burn than it was but they did get together in the first book and they are really cute together so I’ll felt it slide.

-I’m still anticipating the sequels of these books. I’m not sure how many books are intended for this series but I wouldn’t mind it being three or even five. The world has a very solid story and I would love to discover even more pf it, perhaps explore other sectors.
Profile Image for Book Dragon.
49 reviews1 follower
November 17, 2024
A fantastic sequel to this series and a great second book by this author. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, almost as much as the first! Its a very close call as to which one i prefer. It had action, it had spice... i could not put it down!

She further developed her characters and began giving us more insight into each of them. We meet some of our old favourites along with some new faces that we can fall in love with as well.

I enjoy the writing style and find it easy to read - so easy that i was still awake at 2am one night reading it because time just flew past!

I cannot wait to read the next book in this series!
Profile Image for Nicole Corwin.
15 reviews
November 3, 2024
Oh my! I had the wonderful pleasure of being an arc reader for this book and I can’t tell you how often I recommend this book series to all my friends and family. I have complained all the time that authors need to start putting summaries of the previous book in the beginning and Hayley was the first I have seen do it! Which was a life saver for the book nerds who read close to 100 books a year (like me). I absolutely ate this book up every second I was awake. I’m not going to give out any spoilers but just know it WILL keep you on the edge of your seat the WHOLE time. 100/10 recommend.
Profile Image for K. Maier.
Author 4 books1 follower
November 12, 2024
This sequel does not disappoint! The new details revealed about the magic system and Darren & Relaina's powers had me gagged. They are one of my favorite romantasy couples by far! They grow together and the spice is also kicked up a notch. They really are the best combo of cinnamon roll badasses.

There's also a new baddie you'll love to hate. This, combined with the side characters' journeys, made it nearly impossible to put the book down.

I got to read this book early as an ARC reader and it's been a struggle to not share spoilers!!
Profile Image for BookWorms Read.
179 reviews1 follower
November 12, 2024
I was given an advanced copy in exchange for my review. This is my honest opinion I am giving voluntarily. This book does NOT suffer from second book syndrome. It’s light and heavy while also being hilarious balanced with such heart hitting moments. The romance is elevated in this one because now we have a backstory and you cant help but root for them. This authors writing style is so easy to digest and the flow of the story never makes you confused. I can’t wait till book three! Pick it up today you won’t be disappointed!!
Profile Image for Sarah Jane.
313 reviews49 followers
November 18, 2024
Thank you to Hayley Turner for the ARC.

The Princess of Maremer was as well written, well thought out sequel! The pacing was great, the storylines fleshed out and easy to follow. The only reason I didn’t give it five stars is because, like the first book, I felt like there could have been some more thorough self-editing. It still just felt unnecessarily long.
40 reviews
December 19, 2024
Even better than TPOT! Higher stakes, spicier spice, and so much excitement that you'll have to remind yourself to breathe. I gasped aloud, teared up, swore at the book and then I had to process it all for 3-5 business days, because wow. The unhinged bad guys are more unhinged. The heroes are hero-ing. It's great stuff and I need more.
Profile Image for Melissa Tasnim.
13 reviews
January 11, 2025
An excellent sequel to TPOT, this book was fast-paced and adventure driven. Once I was at the final 100 pages I feel like I couldn’t put it down! The development of Jeremiah and Fabian was especially sweet, although I felt I missed a bit of the friendships the first book had (Bracken imy). Overall a great read and would highly recommend!
Profile Image for ✨ D ✨.
37 reviews2 followers
October 23, 2024
This book was so good! It constantly had me on the edge of my seat. I was laughing, crying, and every emotion in between. I cannot wait to see where this series leads. I just adore Relania & Darren. & I can’t wait to watch Relania learn her magic more!!
Profile Image for Jennifer.
60 reviews
January 10, 2025
In this fantastic sequel it adds and expands on everything In the first book that I love form the characters relationships with each other. Loved Darren's and Relania relationship even more and there love and affection and wanting to protect each other. The love makeing parts are done right. Love Relania family form her father Jeremiah and her sister and brother. Can't wait for book Three the Heir of Calixtoxs!
Profile Image for Katie.
45 reviews5 followers
November 12, 2024
I loved the Prince of Terrana, but I loved The Princess of Maremer even more. Who knew I could love Relaina, Darren, Jeremiah, and Fabian this much?
Profile Image for Maggie Nichols.
24 reviews
January 13, 2025
this book made me feral. book 2 supremacy.

chacos stay on during sex :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Karen.
72 reviews19 followers
October 23, 2024
This. Book.
I am well and truly obsessed with this world and the characters. I was so excited to get back into this series and this book did not disappoint. A truly amazing read!



My thoughts:
-Relaina and Darren are the ultimate couple goals and I would absolutely go to battle for them

-We get to learn more of the light/dark magic which I loved delving into. And cannot wait to learn more right along with the characters

-There are a couple of gut wrenching and heartbreaking scenes that I am still not over.

-There is some more spicier spice, but I wouldn’t call this a spicy book. The spice fits perfectly in the story
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**thank you to the author for the advanced reader copy, all opinions are my own**
Profile Image for Shea.
68 reviews4 followers
November 15, 2024
Everything one could want in a sequel- fully delivered.

The Princess of Maremer(TPOM) goes above and beyond the promise of The Prince of Terrana(TPOT). This story was everything that we loved about the first book and more - more intrigue, faster action, hotter spice, stronger heartache, and greater connections. Oh, and a cute kitten. (No worries, Hayley promises that pets are always safe in her books.)

I love that in TPOM, we get to see more magic and find out additional details about the magic powers in this world. We also get some insight on the villain and potential details on why they do what they do. I love that we get to see the relationship between Relaina and Darren grow and, of course, that there is more Fabian and Jeremiah. I am absolutely invested in this series and cannot wait to see where it goes from here!

In addition to the story, TPOM includes a nice summary for the events in TPOT, content (trigger) warnings, a character glossary, and a list of the chapters that include spicy scenes.

Thank you, Haley, for the ARC. All views expressed here are my own.
Profile Image for Joy Parsons.
396 reviews6 followers
April 22, 2025
A great continuation from The Prince of Terrana. There are more details that come to light for both Relaina and Darren. This book is full of action and adventure and romance. I enjoyed every page and watching the romance between Relaina and Darren grow and develop. I look forward to more from this series in the future.

Side note: the audiobook is absolutely amazing as well! The narrator really brings the story to life!
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