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The Cutthroat King
A hidden heart. A captive soul. A chance for redemption.
Beneath the glittering streets of New London, the Cutthroat King rules the criminal underground with a heart as cold as ancient stone. They say he is a monster. And Willow Bowbriar needs a monster.
Desperate to rescue her kidnapped father and save her artifice repair shop from debt collectors, Willow offers her services to the Cutthroat King in exchange for his help. But he wants more than her skills–he wants her.
Living in the Unseen Court thrusts Willow into a perilous game of power and deception, where she must protect herself not only from the King’s enemies but from the King himself.
When secrets unravel and enemies close in, she faces an impossible trust the Cutthroat King with her life—and her heart—or risk losing everything.
Hades and Persephone meets Beauty and the Beast in the Victorian criminal underground, this standalone gaslamp fantasy romance is a companion novel to The Gwen St. James Affair. It takes place between books 3-4 and does contain mild series spoilers.
Beneath the glittering streets of New London, the Cutthroat King rules the criminal underground with a heart as cold as ancient stone. They say he is a monster. And Willow Bowbriar needs a monster.
Desperate to rescue her kidnapped father and save her artifice repair shop from debt collectors, Willow offers her services to the Cutthroat King in exchange for his help. But he wants more than her skills–he wants her.
Living in the Unseen Court thrusts Willow into a perilous game of power and deception, where she must protect herself not only from the King’s enemies but from the King himself.
When secrets unravel and enemies close in, she faces an impossible trust the Cutthroat King with her life—and her heart—or risk losing everything.
Hades and Persephone meets Beauty and the Beast in the Victorian criminal underground, this standalone gaslamp fantasy romance is a companion novel to The Gwen St. James Affair. It takes place between books 3-4 and does contain mild series spoilers.
572 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 5, 2025
21 people are currently reading
437 people want to read
About the author
Nicole McKeon
11 books154 followersNicole has been a soldier, photographer, freelance writer, and artist, but she truly found her home as the author of stories about magical worlds in which ordinary people become heroes through extraordinary circumstances…always with a little romance thrown in.
When she’s not writing fantasy novels or creating fantasy art, Nicole spends time with her husband and three boys, climbing, camping, hiking in the New Mexico wilderness, and daydreaming about chocolate chip cookies.
When she’s not writing fantasy novels or creating fantasy art, Nicole spends time with her husband and three boys, climbing, camping, hiking in the New Mexico wilderness, and daydreaming about chocolate chip cookies.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
December 11, 2024
Don’t read unless you are ok with slight spoilers. If you don’t want to have spoilers, know that i absolutely loved this book and HIGHLY recommend!!! This book was AMAZING!! ❤️❤️❤️
The start of this book had me inthralled but quickly had me also confused by page 36. The beginning of this book was a kick the ground and start running kind of book, i wanted more information of the back story of the FMC and her life with Papa before he went missing. I was very confused on how long Papa had been missing before the panic started to begin and wondered if the FMC had any suspicions on who took her father and why we reached out to the cutthroat king (what services he may be able to provide).
By page 50-something i was HOOKED! I began loving every single page, the plot, the romance, the banter, the action…. EVERYTHING!
Things i was questioning at first began to make sense and unfold. As i kept reading there were twists and turns, betrayals, trust building, action, romance… EVERYTHING an amazing book needs to have you by the throat.
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this book and I’m so glad i did. I throughly enjoyed it and hope to read more of how this story could still unfold.
The start of this book had me inthralled but quickly had me also confused by page 36. The beginning of this book was a kick the ground and start running kind of book, i wanted more information of the back story of the FMC and her life with Papa before he went missing. I was very confused on how long Papa had been missing before the panic started to begin and wondered if the FMC had any suspicions on who took her father and why we reached out to the cutthroat king (what services he may be able to provide).
By page 50-something i was HOOKED! I began loving every single page, the plot, the romance, the banter, the action…. EVERYTHING!
Things i was questioning at first began to make sense and unfold. As i kept reading there were twists and turns, betrayals, trust building, action, romance… EVERYTHING an amazing book needs to have you by the throat.
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this book and I’m so glad i did. I throughly enjoyed it and hope to read more of how this story could still unfold.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 8, 2024
This book had me within its grasp and on the edge of my seat (metaphorically speaking, in reality I was curled up in pjs all day on my couch) from the first chapter. The story line, characters and twists and turns within this book are so compelling that I could not put it down.
The Cutthroat King was well written, flowed really well, and was really well paced. There are hints of inspiration from Beauty and Beast and Hades and Persephone, but the story is its own and set in a really unique world. In my opinion, this is my favourite book by McKeon so far. I read Blood And Silver earlier this year and also all the books in The Gwen St James Affair series that have been released so far, all the books including The Cutthroat King are set within the same world, and I have enjoyed the experience of reading every single one.
Although this book as far as I understand is a stand alone, I really hope that if inspiration allows it, that we get a sequel, because I am not ready to truly leave this story behind.
I was fortunate to receive an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, this is 100% my opinion. I want to thank Nicole for sending me this arc and I look forward to seeing what you do with the rest of the books set in this world, and I am looking forward to jumping in as soon as they are released.
January 5, 2025
“You saved my life. Thank you.”
He tilts my chin up to study my neck and the bruises surely forming there.
“And you have ruined mine,” he says, his deep voice soft.
---
I will never love a couple that Nicole McKeon writes as much as I love Gwen and her complex love interest (avoiding spoilers obvi), but this one sure comes close! I was utterly fascinated by the Cutthroat King in The Gweniverse and could not WAIT to get a story that focuses on him. This absolutely did not disappoint. While it took some time to get to know Willow, I really enjoyed her story as well. Their relationship—while complex given how different they are as people—unfolds naturally, and they grow together in such a satisfying way.
The amount of yearning and dancing around their desire for one another in this book is amazing. I thought this installment complimented Gwen's story even better than Blood & Silver (which I ALSO loved) because it happens amidst the Gwen books in a much more fluid and cohesive way. I adored seeing different aspects of the King and being able to see where Gwen's story fits into this one. I am so excited to see these incredible characters (hopefully!) return in Gwen's future storylines.
The world-building is excellent, the characters are phenomenal, and the relationship between Willow and the Cutthroat King is crafted exceptionally well. It had scenes that made me hot under the collar, sigh happily at the romance, and feel deeply sad for these characters. Despite the fact that this book does lean more heavily into the romance, the spice never overshadows the story or the characters—it only enhances them. Really incredible work, and an essential read for fans of The Gwen St. James Affair.
I want to give my deepest thanks to the author for the complimentary copy. I cannot wait to have the physical one in my hands! This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
He tilts my chin up to study my neck and the bruises surely forming there.
“And you have ruined mine,” he says, his deep voice soft.
---
I will never love a couple that Nicole McKeon writes as much as I love Gwen and her complex love interest (avoiding spoilers obvi), but this one sure comes close! I was utterly fascinated by the Cutthroat King in The Gweniverse and could not WAIT to get a story that focuses on him. This absolutely did not disappoint. While it took some time to get to know Willow, I really enjoyed her story as well. Their relationship—while complex given how different they are as people—unfolds naturally, and they grow together in such a satisfying way.
The amount of yearning and dancing around their desire for one another in this book is amazing. I thought this installment complimented Gwen's story even better than Blood & Silver (which I ALSO loved) because it happens amidst the Gwen books in a much more fluid and cohesive way. I adored seeing different aspects of the King and being able to see where Gwen's story fits into this one. I am so excited to see these incredible characters (hopefully!) return in Gwen's future storylines.
The world-building is excellent, the characters are phenomenal, and the relationship between Willow and the Cutthroat King is crafted exceptionally well. It had scenes that made me hot under the collar, sigh happily at the romance, and feel deeply sad for these characters. Despite the fact that this book does lean more heavily into the romance, the spice never overshadows the story or the characters—it only enhances them. Really incredible work, and an essential read for fans of The Gwen St. James Affair.
I want to give my deepest thanks to the author for the complimentary copy. I cannot wait to have the physical one in my hands! This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
December 17, 2024
Thank you to Nicole for an ARC of The Cutthroat King.
Nicole has another winner on her hands. The novel follows Willow as she bravely enters the underworld to request help from the King to find her missing father. She must learn to navigate this new world as well as the feelings emerging the more time she spends with the King.
Oh boy this was such a good read. Willow is a great female lead. She is vulnerable and scared but grows into her strength. Willow is smart and resourceful. The King is ruthless calculating and logical as he protects the ones abandoned from polite society.
Each scene where these two interact sexual tension leaps off the page. The attraction between these two is just palpable. I don't think I've yelled as much at a book for two characters to just get together. While reading I can't decide if I want to be the King or Willow.
I did not see the betrayal of one of the characters and it did surprise me. I was not expecting it but after thinking on it there were signs that I just chose to ignore.
The Cutthroat King is a good addition to the Gweniverse, nay a great addition. I need more about the King and Willow now. The King has definitely become a favorite character in this universe.
Highly recommend if you like slow burn fantasy romances between two strong willed individuals.
Nicole has another winner on her hands. The novel follows Willow as she bravely enters the underworld to request help from the King to find her missing father. She must learn to navigate this new world as well as the feelings emerging the more time she spends with the King.
Oh boy this was such a good read. Willow is a great female lead. She is vulnerable and scared but grows into her strength. Willow is smart and resourceful. The King is ruthless calculating and logical as he protects the ones abandoned from polite society.
Each scene where these two interact sexual tension leaps off the page. The attraction between these two is just palpable. I don't think I've yelled as much at a book for two characters to just get together. While reading I can't decide if I want to be the King or Willow.
I did not see the betrayal of one of the characters and it did surprise me. I was not expecting it but after thinking on it there were signs that I just chose to ignore.
The Cutthroat King is a good addition to the Gweniverse, nay a great addition. I need more about the King and Willow now. The King has definitely become a favorite character in this universe.
Highly recommend if you like slow burn fantasy romances between two strong willed individuals.
December 10, 2024
I want more of the CTK and WL!!!
I was lucky to get an ARC of this book. Please go get your own it’s soo good.
Here is the thing. If you are not interested in the darkness that exists in each of us then this book is going to be hard for you. But if you are go buy this book right now!!!
It is without a doubt the best book Nicole has written so far. Both the MC are as flawed, hurt and not necessarily ready to accept it. Their process towards leaning who they are and how they fit in themselves is beautiful ( I still feel like a psychologist would be a good idea. Can you imagine how therapy would go for CTK?)
The mirror of each other, they create as a relationship is formed makes their chemistry so hard to resist. All I wanted is more of them! If I wasn’t reading I was thinking how the plot could develop. What would happen between them and how they’d lean to acknowledge their needs and fulfill them.
I was lucky to get an ARC of this book. Please go get your own it’s soo good.
Here is the thing. If you are not interested in the darkness that exists in each of us then this book is going to be hard for you. But if you are go buy this book right now!!!
It is without a doubt the best book Nicole has written so far. Both the MC are as flawed, hurt and not necessarily ready to accept it. Their process towards leaning who they are and how they fit in themselves is beautiful ( I still feel like a psychologist would be a good idea. Can you imagine how therapy would go for CTK?)
The mirror of each other, they create as a relationship is formed makes their chemistry so hard to resist. All I wanted is more of them! If I wasn’t reading I was thinking how the plot could develop. What would happen between them and how they’d lean to acknowledge their needs and fulfill them.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 16, 2025
4.7+ stars and I’m hooked on this whole thing. This story managed to feel different from the others.
it was kind of fun to have the Cutthroat King’s take on Gwen and if I had read this one first I think I may have felt a touch confused. The look we got at the CK from Gwen’s perspective felt more multidimensional. Either way I had a blast and there were all kinds of surprising twists, action and some yummy spice tossed in for good measure.
This is a proper Romantasy!
it was kind of fun to have the Cutthroat King’s take on Gwen and if I had read this one first I think I may have felt a touch confused. The look we got at the CK from Gwen’s perspective felt more multidimensional. Either way I had a blast and there were all kinds of surprising twists, action and some yummy spice tossed in for good measure.
This is a proper Romantasy!
December 13, 2024
Literally couldn’t put it down. Devoured it from start to finish.
The FMC’s character development was great and the banter was witty and the MMC was swoon worthy. Add in some of the heart pounding action scenes and what’s not to love?!
The FMC’s character development was great and the banter was witty and the MMC was swoon worthy. Add in some of the heart pounding action scenes and what’s not to love?!
January 14, 2025
This book shows us a different view of the universe of The Gwen St. James Affair series. We follow the story of Willow who has a father who is likely being held against his will. She goes to the Cutthroat king for help, who is the ruler of all the rejected people up in the city. We follow Willow and the Cutthroat king as they get to know one another and find out what’s actually going on
November 8, 2025
based on this book only having 78 rating on goodreads I dare say it is severely underappreciated in the romantacy community.
it's got gore and blood, folklore, fantasy, 1900s 'new' london, history and myth, science, catacombs and tunnels, villain v sweeetheart slowburn, and light spice.
on top of that, the story itself is really interesting and unexpected - the world and the way it is introduced in fragments throughout the book, and the way the characters respond to it and eachother is so satisfying. it's a standalone offshoot from a series in the same world, but it stands for itself, i didn't even know it was an offshoot until i saw the 'recommended reading' on the last page. big recommend.
though sometimes it is rather obvious the author is american.
it's got gore and blood, folklore, fantasy, 1900s 'new' london, history and myth, science, catacombs and tunnels, villain v sweeetheart slowburn, and light spice.
on top of that, the story itself is really interesting and unexpected - the world and the way it is introduced in fragments throughout the book, and the way the characters respond to it and eachother is so satisfying. it's a standalone offshoot from a series in the same world, but it stands for itself, i didn't even know it was an offshoot until i saw the 'recommended reading' on the last page. big recommend.
though sometimes it is rather obvious the author is american.
December 16, 2024
I received an ARC from the author and I am leaving a voluntary review.
**
All the stars. I am in love and this is one of those books I never want to stop reading. It has it all; compelling characters that are layered and that try, fail, get back up and do things again, a delicious slow-burn romance and action that will leave you breathless. So basically it's everything you can expect from a Nicole McKeon book.
The story follows Willow, aka Dove, who is trying to find her father after he mysteriously disappears. When a mysterious coin is delivered to her, Willow sets out to find the aid of the notorious Cutthroat King. In order to get assistance from the King though, Willow finds herself living with him and serving him. As the two slowly grow closer, the sexual tension as well as the tension in the Underwold grows and grows until both spill over.
I love this world - the Gweniverse - and it was so fun to see New London from a new perspective. We've already met the King before in Gwen St James books and he was a dashing pirate -type then and he still is, just with more layers and a backstory that will make you weep. He's really one of those morally grey book boyfriends that you cannot help but fall in love with. The way he might claim he is a monster, but he is a monster with the biggest heart and he always, always takes care of his people first. One might even say he's somewhat of a cinnamon roll monster too.
Willow is such a strong main character. I love that she is such an ordinary character and yet she is so resourceful, strongminded and caring. Her layers are wonderful and I love seeing them in action. Her compassion towards all other characters is so wonderful to see and witness and I couldn't help but to love her. And her relationship with Ripper is an absolute highlight of the story for me. I also have to say that it was wonderful and amazing to see the metal dog again!
There are so many easter eggs in the book from Gweniverse that I loved seeing and remembering all the bits and pieces from the books. And they feel so organic too, it's not like these little tidbits have been crammed into the book for the sake of cramming stuff in there but they actually make sense. Same with the Beauty and the Beast retelling, it feels organic and actually makes sense. And it's not like it's a word-for-word retelling but there are elements and things that fit and others have been changed to they make more sense and feel good for the story.
A big applause from me for this book and this is one of those books I know I will carry with me for a long time.
**
All the stars. I am in love and this is one of those books I never want to stop reading. It has it all; compelling characters that are layered and that try, fail, get back up and do things again, a delicious slow-burn romance and action that will leave you breathless. So basically it's everything you can expect from a Nicole McKeon book.
The story follows Willow, aka Dove, who is trying to find her father after he mysteriously disappears. When a mysterious coin is delivered to her, Willow sets out to find the aid of the notorious Cutthroat King. In order to get assistance from the King though, Willow finds herself living with him and serving him. As the two slowly grow closer, the sexual tension as well as the tension in the Underwold grows and grows until both spill over.
I love this world - the Gweniverse - and it was so fun to see New London from a new perspective. We've already met the King before in Gwen St James books and he was a dashing pirate -type then and he still is, just with more layers and a backstory that will make you weep. He's really one of those morally grey book boyfriends that you cannot help but fall in love with. The way he might claim he is a monster, but he is a monster with the biggest heart and he always, always takes care of his people first. One might even say he's somewhat of a cinnamon roll monster too.
Willow is such a strong main character. I love that she is such an ordinary character and yet she is so resourceful, strongminded and caring. Her layers are wonderful and I love seeing them in action. Her compassion towards all other characters is so wonderful to see and witness and I couldn't help but to love her. And her relationship with Ripper is an absolute highlight of the story for me. I also have to say that it was wonderful and amazing to see the metal dog again!
There are so many easter eggs in the book from Gweniverse that I loved seeing and remembering all the bits and pieces from the books. And they feel so organic too, it's not like these little tidbits have been crammed into the book for the sake of cramming stuff in there but they actually make sense. Same with the Beauty and the Beast retelling, it feels organic and actually makes sense. And it's not like it's a word-for-word retelling but there are elements and things that fit and others have been changed to they make more sense and feel good for the story.
A big applause from me for this book and this is one of those books I know I will carry with me for a long time.
December 13, 2024
The Cutthroat King is a magnificent example of a Gaslamp Romantasy. It is (I believe) the 9th book by McKeon, and of all her works this one is the closest to a more traditional Romance. The setup is a classic enemies-to-lovers trope. Almost immediately the down-and-out Willow is thrust into the bedroom of the delightfully disrespectable Cutthroat King. From that point on you know they’re where they are eventually going to end up. Half the fun is the wait. They don’t call these bodice rippers for nothing. McKeon skillfully draws the characters closer, ratcheting up the sexual tension on almost every page, as the plot slowly unfolds around them.
This is not the Victorian London you know, but McKeon’s New London, and it is full to the brim with magic, mayhem, monsters, and modern machinery. The book is immersive. The smells, the sounds, the grit, are all well rendered. McKeon has written four other novels in this universe, collectively known as the Gwen St. James Affair, which means she really knows this city, and she is very capable of taking you there. Gwen St. James herself is a fun character, and even makes a few cameos here.
Alas, Gwen is a woman of means, which leaves her stuck always playing the respectable daughter. Thankfully, Willow has no such limitations. She’s an orphan turned tradeswoman by the kind act of the man she calls father. When he disappears, and takes her prospects with him, Willow has no choice but to turn to New London’s champion of the poor and needy, which is the Cutthroat King.
As the relationship between Willow and the King deepens, it turns out that she has passion for more than just making devices. By Victorian standards Willow is delightfully wanton, and so is the King. The culmination of their passion results in perhaps the longest sex scene I’ve ever had the pleasure to read, and it was worth every word getting there. There is a slight amount of kink involved, but nothing that would tarnish a real Victorian.
Of course bad men are also afoot, and Willow’s relationship to the King is entwined with them. Trust and betrayal, always reliable tropes in a romance novel, play out here to good effect. Suffice to say McKeon nails the dismount perfectly.
I received the ACR of this novel, and plowed through it in three days. It was so difficult to put down that I lost quite a few hours of sleep. This is perhaps the highest praise I can give a book. Get yourself a copy, and start wandering both the streets of New London, and below them in the gritty halls of the Unseen Court. Good clean dirty fun.
This is not the Victorian London you know, but McKeon’s New London, and it is full to the brim with magic, mayhem, monsters, and modern machinery. The book is immersive. The smells, the sounds, the grit, are all well rendered. McKeon has written four other novels in this universe, collectively known as the Gwen St. James Affair, which means she really knows this city, and she is very capable of taking you there. Gwen St. James herself is a fun character, and even makes a few cameos here.
Alas, Gwen is a woman of means, which leaves her stuck always playing the respectable daughter. Thankfully, Willow has no such limitations. She’s an orphan turned tradeswoman by the kind act of the man she calls father. When he disappears, and takes her prospects with him, Willow has no choice but to turn to New London’s champion of the poor and needy, which is the Cutthroat King.
As the relationship between Willow and the King deepens, it turns out that she has passion for more than just making devices. By Victorian standards Willow is delightfully wanton, and so is the King. The culmination of their passion results in perhaps the longest sex scene I’ve ever had the pleasure to read, and it was worth every word getting there. There is a slight amount of kink involved, but nothing that would tarnish a real Victorian.
Of course bad men are also afoot, and Willow’s relationship to the King is entwined with them. Trust and betrayal, always reliable tropes in a romance novel, play out here to good effect. Suffice to say McKeon nails the dismount perfectly.
I received the ACR of this novel, and plowed through it in three days. It was so difficult to put down that I lost quite a few hours of sleep. This is perhaps the highest praise I can give a book. Get yourself a copy, and start wandering both the streets of New London, and below them in the gritty halls of the Unseen Court. Good clean dirty fun.
January 25, 2025
5.0 stars
I really loved "The Cutthroat King" although it's not a perfect story. Not even close. But I loved our MMC, he was deliciously morally grey and I just loved his gestures and they way he changed throughout the story. Willow was okay for the most part but sometimes lacked common sense. And I really loved the tension and slow burn. There definitely is not insta love or insta lust and the story had the right amount of smut. It's there but it's not dominating the story.
The world building while not completely innovative is a very compelling mixture of victorian steampunk, the LoL series Arcane and peaky blinders.
It's a companion novel to a longer series that I haven't read and I don't think is needed to understand the story. Yes, some things are a bit confusing but not too much.
But the novel lacks editing, there are spelling mistakes and inconsistencies but I can ignore that since this is a relatively small indie author and I'm not a native speaker so I just read over some of the mistakes. I didn't like all of Willow's decisions especially in the last part of the story, how she felt morally superior and lacked empathy regarding our hero (til the end I felt like he felt more for her then she did. They don't share "I love you"s which was a bit disappointing (but his feelings are clear by the end without him telling her that he loves her) but she doesn't even think that she fell in love with him. That was a bit strange. Yes, she cares obviously but how much I'm not sure...) and there were a lot of things that I wished were explained in more detail. Especially when it comes to the MMC. With the single POV came a lot of tension and mystery that I loved but I just want to know more about the feelings of the MMC.
And for people who are sensitive when it comes to cheating. The MMC brings a prostitute to their room (I don't know what he thought would happen) and she accidentally interrupts them before he has sex with the OW. They aren't in an relationship at the point, far from it, but they formed a connection. It's not revealed if the had sex with other woman after that instance but I just pretend that he didn't.
I really loved "The Cutthroat King" although it's not a perfect story. Not even close. But I loved our MMC, he was deliciously morally grey and I just loved his gestures and they way he changed throughout the story. Willow was okay for the most part but sometimes lacked common sense. And I really loved the tension and slow burn. There definitely is not insta love or insta lust and the story had the right amount of smut. It's there but it's not dominating the story.
The world building while not completely innovative is a very compelling mixture of victorian steampunk, the LoL series Arcane and peaky blinders.
It's a companion novel to a longer series that I haven't read and I don't think is needed to understand the story. Yes, some things are a bit confusing but not too much.
But the novel lacks editing, there are spelling mistakes and inconsistencies but I can ignore that since this is a relatively small indie author and I'm not a native speaker so I just read over some of the mistakes. I didn't like all of Willow's decisions especially in the last part of the story, how she felt morally superior and lacked empathy regarding our hero (til the end I felt like he felt more for her then she did. They don't share "I love you"s which was a bit disappointing (but his feelings are clear by the end without him telling her that he loves her) but she doesn't even think that she fell in love with him. That was a bit strange. Yes, she cares obviously but how much I'm not sure...) and there were a lot of things that I wished were explained in more detail. Especially when it comes to the MMC. With the single POV came a lot of tension and mystery that I loved but I just want to know more about the feelings of the MMC.
And for people who are sensitive when it comes to cheating. The MMC brings a prostitute to their room (I don't know what he thought would happen) and she accidentally interrupts them before he has sex with the OW. They aren't in an relationship at the point, far from it, but they formed a connection. It's not revealed if the had sex with other woman after that instance but I just pretend that he didn't.
January 5, 2025
“They create monsters and then punish them for it. So I will spend my life making them fear the monsters they’ve created."
Truly another absolute masterpiece for Nicole McKeon and once again the ‘Gwen St. James Affair’ reminds itself why it’s one of my favorite series (+and why I had to ensure it was one of my first reads for the new year - gotta start on a high note).
When I found out that a book was going to be written focusing on the Cutthroat King (one of my favorites from the main series), the squeal that came from me was embarrassing, but alas for me, this book did not disappoint. Willow/Dove, our FMC was incredible. She was soft and gentle and kind and I love when you have a character who stays true to those fundamentals regardless of all of the despair and hurt that they endure. I would argue that this is one of my favorite things about McKeon’s writing - her characters are complex and they remain true to themselves. I found Willow’s struggles with the violence (even when it’s ‘justified’) to be incredibly realistic and true to her character. And I loved that even though at the end after the course of the story, she has sort of an understanding with it, she still remains at the core, a kind soul.
Ripper, will forever be (and yes, I do mean forever) my heart and soul through this book. Similar to how Raethe was willing to let the place burn for Willow, I would quite literally burn the world down for Ripper.
My overall experience: I cried, I laughed, I giggled (Willow and Raethe’s tension was delicious), I loved this book and cannot wait for the next one and I cannot thank my lucky stars enough for the advanced reader copy!
One of my favorite quotes:
“If he’s so dangerous, why does he have such soft carpets?”
4.5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Truly another absolute masterpiece for Nicole McKeon and once again the ‘Gwen St. James Affair’ reminds itself why it’s one of my favorite series (+and why I had to ensure it was one of my first reads for the new year - gotta start on a high note).
When I found out that a book was going to be written focusing on the Cutthroat King (one of my favorites from the main series), the squeal that came from me was embarrassing, but alas for me, this book did not disappoint. Willow/Dove, our FMC was incredible. She was soft and gentle and kind and I love when you have a character who stays true to those fundamentals regardless of all of the despair and hurt that they endure. I would argue that this is one of my favorite things about McKeon’s writing - her characters are complex and they remain true to themselves. I found Willow’s struggles with the violence (even when it’s ‘justified’) to be incredibly realistic and true to her character. And I loved that even though at the end after the course of the story, she has sort of an understanding with it, she still remains at the core, a kind soul.
Ripper, will forever be (and yes, I do mean forever) my heart and soul through this book. Similar to how Raethe was willing to let the place burn for Willow, I would quite literally burn the world down for Ripper.
My overall experience: I cried, I laughed, I giggled (Willow and Raethe’s tension was delicious), I loved this book and cannot wait for the next one and I cannot thank my lucky stars enough for the advanced reader copy!
One of my favorite quotes:
“If he’s so dangerous, why does he have such soft carpets?”
4.5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
January 5, 2025
I was chosen to be an ARC reader for Nicole Mckeon’s The Cutthroat King and I am sorry my review was not posted sooner but let me tell you, this is a book worth reading!
I started a little slowly but then the book gripped me and kept me enthralled.
The book follows Willow a young elven woman who seeks out the cutthroat king to help find her kidnapped father. In return for his services, he wants her. To save her repair shop and her father she agrees but will she trust the Cutthroat king with her life or worse her heart?
The story had my emotions going from happiness, intrigue, annoyance and sadness. It was a rollercoaster of emotions and opened my eyes to Morally grey romance. I have found a new trope I like and it was thanks to this book.
Following Willow’s journey, learning what she wanted from life and wondering as each page turned what she would do to achieve it kept me glued to each chapter. One of my favourite quotes and one I relate to personally was as follows.
“You’ll give up anything, risk anything for everyone but yourself”
I would just like to say Nicole Mckeon you know what you did with that one scene, my tears were proof of how consumed I was by the words on the page.
This book gets five stars from me, I couldn’t recommend it enough! Love, Betrayal and morality shone through as the themes of this novel to me. I urge everyone to read this book. I had never heard of gaslamp fantasy before but I think I fell in love with the genre a little while reading this book.
If you love Morally grey bookish men, interesting and deep characters and a little bit of magic this is the book for you.
I started a little slowly but then the book gripped me and kept me enthralled.
The book follows Willow a young elven woman who seeks out the cutthroat king to help find her kidnapped father. In return for his services, he wants her. To save her repair shop and her father she agrees but will she trust the Cutthroat king with her life or worse her heart?
The story had my emotions going from happiness, intrigue, annoyance and sadness. It was a rollercoaster of emotions and opened my eyes to Morally grey romance. I have found a new trope I like and it was thanks to this book.
Following Willow’s journey, learning what she wanted from life and wondering as each page turned what she would do to achieve it kept me glued to each chapter. One of my favourite quotes and one I relate to personally was as follows.
“You’ll give up anything, risk anything for everyone but yourself”
I would just like to say Nicole Mckeon you know what you did with that one scene, my tears were proof of how consumed I was by the words on the page.
This book gets five stars from me, I couldn’t recommend it enough! Love, Betrayal and morality shone through as the themes of this novel to me. I urge everyone to read this book. I had never heard of gaslamp fantasy before but I think I fell in love with the genre a little while reading this book.
If you love Morally grey bookish men, interesting and deep characters and a little bit of magic this is the book for you.
January 3, 2025
I'm happy to see that other people enjoyed this more than I did, as I am a big fan of Nicole McKeon and the Gweniverse.
I had several issues with this book that kept me from getting invested in the story, and I think they all boil down to this being a story that, imo, prioritized plot over character development. There was no point in the story, with the possible exception of the epilogue, that I wanted these characters to get together. There were also a number of times when the characters would do things that had to happen for the plot to work, but seemed to come out of nowhere in terms of their character arc or logical context.
That said, I enjoyed the parts I like enough to finish all nearly 600 pages of this book. It took a while for me to start caring about Willow/Dove, but I liked her more as the story progressed. I was here for the darker elements, and while I didn't care for the core romance, I do love the world of New London, and I'm glad we got to spend time in the domain of the King. He's one of my favorite characters in the main series and I'm glad that he maintains his moral greyness for this book.
I received this book as an ARC, and my review is being left voluntarily. While I wasn't the target audience of this story, I'm guessing that people who are into fae romance will eat this right up, and there's enough other stuff going on that it doesn't read like another ACOTAR clone. While there are references to other characters in the main Gwen series, I think this book could be read as a standalone without too much confusion.
I had several issues with this book that kept me from getting invested in the story, and I think they all boil down to this being a story that, imo, prioritized plot over character development. There was no point in the story, with the possible exception of the epilogue, that I wanted these characters to get together. There were also a number of times when the characters would do things that had to happen for the plot to work, but seemed to come out of nowhere in terms of their character arc or logical context.
That said, I enjoyed the parts I like enough to finish all nearly 600 pages of this book. It took a while for me to start caring about Willow/Dove, but I liked her more as the story progressed. I was here for the darker elements, and while I didn't care for the core romance, I do love the world of New London, and I'm glad we got to spend time in the domain of the King. He's one of my favorite characters in the main series and I'm glad that he maintains his moral greyness for this book.
I received this book as an ARC, and my review is being left voluntarily. While I wasn't the target audience of this story, I'm guessing that people who are into fae romance will eat this right up, and there's enough other stuff going on that it doesn't read like another ACOTAR clone. While there are references to other characters in the main Gwen series, I think this book could be read as a standalone without too much confusion.
January 1, 2025
I would like to thank Nicole for the ARC of this book.
The Cutthroat King is a stand alone gaslamp romantasy set in the world of her Gwen St. James Affair series.
Set in the Victorian criminal underworld of New London the vibe of The Cutthroat King is that of Beauty and the Beast meets Hades and Persephone.
Told through the point of view of our FMC Willow we follow her as she ventures into Undercroft in search of The Cutthroat King. After the kidnapping of her father Willow in lists the help of the King to find him. What does he want in exchange for helping? Well her of course.
This is another great book from Nicole McKeon. The only reason I rated it four stars is that it took me a while to connect to Willow. I did however love The Cutthroat King instantly. If you love a morally grey man then be prepared to loose your heart to the King completely.
Although this can be read as a stand alone it does contain spoilers for the main series.
If you are looking to read the Gwen St. James Affair. Here is my recommended reading order for the world of Lady Gwen and her friends that will help you avoid any spoilers.
1. Blood and Silver (which is also a stand alone set in the world).
2. Vanished (Book 1 of the Gwen St. James Affair)
3. Moonstruck (Book 2 of the Gwen St. James Affair)
4. Spellbound (Book 3 of the Gwen St. James Affair)
5. Bedeviled (Book 4 of the Gwen St. James Affair)
6. The Cutthroat King
The Cutthroat King is a stand alone gaslamp romantasy set in the world of her Gwen St. James Affair series.
Set in the Victorian criminal underworld of New London the vibe of The Cutthroat King is that of Beauty and the Beast meets Hades and Persephone.
Told through the point of view of our FMC Willow we follow her as she ventures into Undercroft in search of The Cutthroat King. After the kidnapping of her father Willow in lists the help of the King to find him. What does he want in exchange for helping? Well her of course.
This is another great book from Nicole McKeon. The only reason I rated it four stars is that it took me a while to connect to Willow. I did however love The Cutthroat King instantly. If you love a morally grey man then be prepared to loose your heart to the King completely.
Although this can be read as a stand alone it does contain spoilers for the main series.
If you are looking to read the Gwen St. James Affair. Here is my recommended reading order for the world of Lady Gwen and her friends that will help you avoid any spoilers.
1. Blood and Silver (which is also a stand alone set in the world).
2. Vanished (Book 1 of the Gwen St. James Affair)
3. Moonstruck (Book 2 of the Gwen St. James Affair)
4. Spellbound (Book 3 of the Gwen St. James Affair)
5. Bedeviled (Book 4 of the Gwen St. James Affair)
6. The Cutthroat King
January 5, 2025
What a book! You know it's a good book when you feel your heart pounding and racing! I was on the edge of my seat for most of the book, which meant I couldn't put the book down. I needed and wanted to know more. This book is well written. The author knows how to catch your attention and grab a hold of you through their writing. I got a beauty and the beast vibe while reading this book. I'm not sure if that was intentional or not. This is a standalone that is part of a series. So this takes place in the same universe as the other books just have their own story. From what I understand. This is my first time reading Nicole Mckeon's books, and now I'm hooked! Can't wait to read the other books in this series.
Willow is such a strong FMC! I definitely wished I was her in this book. The sexual tension the King and Willow had you could feel through the pages. I don't think I've wanted characters to be together as much as I did in this book.
There were twists and turns I didn't see coming. I think I was blinded by Willow and the Kings love attraction that I might have over looked somethings.
Again, I can't wait to go back and read the other books in this series. The readers who have read the other books in this series seem to be happy and excited about those as much as they were with this book. So I have a feeling I'm going to love those books as well.
Willow is such a strong FMC! I definitely wished I was her in this book. The sexual tension the King and Willow had you could feel through the pages. I don't think I've wanted characters to be together as much as I did in this book.
There were twists and turns I didn't see coming. I think I was blinded by Willow and the Kings love attraction that I might have over looked somethings.
Again, I can't wait to go back and read the other books in this series. The readers who have read the other books in this series seem to be happy and excited about those as much as they were with this book. So I have a feeling I'm going to love those books as well.
January 12, 2025
Nicole McKeon's gaslamp fantasy adventures set in the world of her Gwen St. James Affair series always deliver stories with unforgettable characters, a unique magic system, with elements of science and magic and fast-paced action that forces a reader to keep turning the page. Not to forget the sizzling spicy scenes. When young Willow Beauregard comes to the fearsome and legendary Cutthroat King for help finding her missing, possibly kidnapped father, she enters a world of treachery, violence and perilous bargains with hidden meanings. To gain the King's help, Willow (called Dove by the King) agrees to lend her skills as a 'repairist' and skills with mechanics to help fight a mysterious group called The Covenant of the Silver Dawn. The timeline granted for their deal is six months and meanwhile the young elf woman must obey the mysterious king's every command; while resisting a confusing attraction. What follows is a tale with characters that fight for their place while questioning the price it will cost to achieve their most cherished goals. The Cutthroat King is a wonderful addition to this world of monsters and magic and danger hiding in every shadow. I could barely put it down but I did need to sleep sometime. Highly recommend.
January 4, 2025
I loved this book in ways I did not expect. I have read the other books that exist in this universe and really enjoyed them. But Willow, our fmc, really connected for me in ways that other fmcs haven't. Willow is soft and gentle and kind and that is never forced out of her as her character develops. Yes her naivete and world view shifts over the course of our story but at her core she remains soft and gentle, and that meant a lot to me. Our mmc, the Cutthroat King, was as interesting and dark and broody and deep as I have come to anticipate from this author. She writes some of the best male characters I have read. We do not shy away from his criminal-leader identity, but we do get to know him as he is underneath a few of his masks 🥷 And I loved the romance that developed in this story, it felt real. The other characters we know from the Gwen St James series popping up also made me grin (and built up my anticipation for the next in that series)! I loved this book and will be going back to it for all the gritty butterflies I experienced
*I received an arc copy of this book in exchange for my honest review*
*I received an arc copy of this book in exchange for my honest review*
January 2, 2025
I thought I loved the other books in the Gwen-I-verse…but this is by FAR my favorite one yet.
Willow and the king. Just, yes. I simultaneously wanted to devour this story and make it last forever. It’s a story I didn’t know I needed.
The characters are complex and stunning. The world is familiar but completely different. But the plot do be plotting.
Willow is an orphaned elf, taken in by a male elf, and trained to work. Stuff happens that I can’t ruin for you because, spoilers, and she ends up going to find the Cutthroat King.
A note to the author, Nicole - I cannot get enough of your world you’ve created. Seriously. Your books may be my top recommendations, period. Thank you for sharing the world of New London with us meager peasants.
I am leaving this review of my own volition after reading an arc of this book. I have so many thoughts. But, I don’t want to write down any spoilers. I need you to read this for yourself and then come talk to me about it so I can gush about it all with someone who will get it.
Willow and the king. Just, yes. I simultaneously wanted to devour this story and make it last forever. It’s a story I didn’t know I needed.
The characters are complex and stunning. The world is familiar but completely different. But the plot do be plotting.
Willow is an orphaned elf, taken in by a male elf, and trained to work. Stuff happens that I can’t ruin for you because, spoilers, and she ends up going to find the Cutthroat King.
A note to the author, Nicole - I cannot get enough of your world you’ve created. Seriously. Your books may be my top recommendations, period. Thank you for sharing the world of New London with us meager peasants.
I am leaving this review of my own volition after reading an arc of this book. I have so many thoughts. But, I don’t want to write down any spoilers. I need you to read this for yourself and then come talk to me about it so I can gush about it all with someone who will get it.
January 5, 2025
I recently got the ARC of The Cutthroat King from Nicole McKeon and omg I have a lot of thoughts about it-
I'm usually not one for romance books, but Nicole is absolutely brilliant at writing them. This is mostly a gaslamp dark fantasy (but it does qualify as a romance!) that was nearly impossible to put down. This is definitely the best enemies to lovers of 2025!
This book follows Willow in her quest to do anything to save her father after he's been kidnapped by an unknown, but clearly supernatural group. After she has exhausted all other options, she seeks out the King of the underworld: The Cutthroat King, and begs him for aid and learns quickly that not every deal is a good one. Yet, the two unlikely allies find a common cause and in the end they both use their abilities (new and old) in order to achieve their goals.
The book is sweet, spicy and leaves the reader feeling wonderfully satisfied.
I'm usually not one for romance books, but Nicole is absolutely brilliant at writing them. This is mostly a gaslamp dark fantasy (but it does qualify as a romance!) that was nearly impossible to put down. This is definitely the best enemies to lovers of 2025!
This book follows Willow in her quest to do anything to save her father after he's been kidnapped by an unknown, but clearly supernatural group. After she has exhausted all other options, she seeks out the King of the underworld: The Cutthroat King, and begs him for aid and learns quickly that not every deal is a good one. Yet, the two unlikely allies find a common cause and in the end they both use their abilities (new and old) in order to achieve their goals.
The book is sweet, spicy and leaves the reader feeling wonderfully satisfied.
December 8, 2024
Wow! I could not put this down!!! 5/5 ⭐️
This story is so original and unique and I can't stop thinking about it. I loved Willow and her character and found her to be layered and relatable 🥺. It was never predictable and each characters actions felt genuine and believable.
The plot is fast paced and kept me hooked from start to finish. The writing is so beautiful and I couldn't stop highlighting everything the MMC said 😅♥️. I am absolutely obsessed!
I highly recommend this for any romantic fantasy lover!
January 19, 2025
Absolutely loved it, phenomenal gaslamp romantasy! Nicole McKeon is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors in the genre.
We follow Willow, an elven artificer, setting out to rescue her kidnapped father by making a deal with the top crime boss of the city. She goes into his service for six months and in return he helps her rescue her father.
The plot gives delicious Hades and Persephone, as well as Robin Hood-vibes, and the characters and story have a depth that surprised me. This was a spin-off perfectly done, just the right length and nicely fleshed-out, without dragging on unnecessarily.
Just one thing: Nicole,
We follow Willow, an elven artificer, setting out to rescue her kidnapped father by making a deal with the top crime boss of the city. She goes into his service for six months and in return he helps her rescue her father.
The plot gives delicious Hades and Persephone, as well as Robin Hood-vibes, and the characters and story have a depth that surprised me. This was a spin-off perfectly done, just the right length and nicely fleshed-out, without dragging on unnecessarily.
Just one thing: Nicole,
August 10, 2025
Wow this book was so fun. Such a lovely little stand alone that has me curious about the other works the author has done. I was captivated from the beginning, staying up late so I could keep reading, and sad to finish it just because I enjoyed reading it so much.
The themes of honesty and trust in this book were pretty powerful and the character development was beautiful for our Cutthroat King. Even Willow has great character development.
I think I especially loved how real Willow felt. Yes, she was an elf and that provided some abilities but she also reacted a lot like how I imagine I would react to the things she witnessed or had to do.
Also getting to read a book about an artificer was new for me and a fun avenue to explore. The spice in this book was hot and the tension between these two was steamy.
So happy to own this book in my collection.
The themes of honesty and trust in this book were pretty powerful and the character development was beautiful for our Cutthroat King. Even Willow has great character development.
I think I especially loved how real Willow felt. Yes, she was an elf and that provided some abilities but she also reacted a lot like how I imagine I would react to the things she witnessed or had to do.
Also getting to read a book about an artificer was new for me and a fun avenue to explore. The spice in this book was hot and the tension between these two was steamy.
So happy to own this book in my collection.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 15, 2024
This book is such an amazing read. Not only does it tie in so neatly into the Gwen St. James universe, it gives a unique insight into the underworld of New London and it's leader, the enigmatic Cutthroat King.
I already loved him as a villain, and I only love him more now! The world building, seeing the other side of society and living in it for a few hundred pages was an inspiring journey, especially watching both Willow and the Cutthroat King both dealing with their past, with their issues, and growing together as well as in their own.
Now I'll dove headfirst back into the Gwen St. James homes, because what we gleaned from the Cutthroat King is going to make rereading the other books in this world just so good!
I already loved him as a villain, and I only love him more now! The world building, seeing the other side of society and living in it for a few hundred pages was an inspiring journey, especially watching both Willow and the Cutthroat King both dealing with their past, with their issues, and growing together as well as in their own.
Now I'll dove headfirst back into the Gwen St. James homes, because what we gleaned from the Cutthroat King is going to make rereading the other books in this world just so good!
January 5, 2025
Another thrilling adventure in the gaslamp Fantasy series "The Gwen St. James Affair!" i think this is my favorite book so far of the entire series. technically a standalone, we get to see very deep insights into the Cutthroat King, and get to see a new angle from the fourth book in the main series! i never expected to love the cutthroat King as much as i do now, but man was it amazing! with the beautiful prose we've come to expect from Nicole McKeon, we also get to see how the underbelly of New London really works, and the lengths that the King will go to protect it. with enemies to lovers, touch her and die, mafia romance and yet another baddass female main character, i highly, highly recommend everyone read this book!
December 16, 2024
I knew it from the moment I read about the Cutthroat King in the Gwen St. James Affair his story was going to be a 5 star read! I knew there was more to this tall, dark, and handsome ruler of London's underground. I knew that Nicole would not disappoint!
This spin-off story is a great companion to the Gwen St. James Affair books, but it also stands up quite nicely on its own as Nicole continues to introduce and expand the mythology of this universe.
This story is stuffed with magic, faeries, elves, vampires, and kick-ass gadgets.
Topped with a slow-burn/one-bed romance that culminates in various chapters of the sexiest coupling.
And sprinkled with some murder and mayhem.
Perfection.
This spin-off story is a great companion to the Gwen St. James Affair books, but it also stands up quite nicely on its own as Nicole continues to introduce and expand the mythology of this universe.
This story is stuffed with magic, faeries, elves, vampires, and kick-ass gadgets.
Topped with a slow-burn/one-bed romance that culminates in various chapters of the sexiest coupling.
And sprinkled with some murder and mayhem.
Perfection.
December 16, 2024
I could not put this book down! Believe me when I say this whole book had me on the edge of my seat the whole time. Fast paced and easy to follow. It has love hate betrayal twist and turns and so much more!
The tension, spice and the back and forth between the 2 main characters was great. If you love fantasy romance this book is definitely for you!
“You have not learned yet that trust is a weakness. It is a trap. Anyone will betray you if and when it best serves them, and if you survive long enough, someone will teach you that lesson. But it will not be me.”
I was so lucky to receive this as an Arc read and I’m so glad I did, it did not disappoint!
December 20, 2024
I’m at a loss for words. This book was absolutely amazing. The character development, the banter, the spice mixed in with an amazing plot-mind blowing. I absolutely loved this book. This is the first book I’ve read from this author and I’ll definitely be reading more.
I did start out a bit confused because the first two journal entries were dated kind of weird and the book jumped straight into action. However, after the first few chapters, I was completely hooked.
I would 100% recommend this to any fan of fantasy/romantasy. I’d like to thank the author for allowing me to read this amazing story as an ARC. This is my honest review.
I did start out a bit confused because the first two journal entries were dated kind of weird and the book jumped straight into action. However, after the first few chapters, I was completely hooked.
I would 100% recommend this to any fan of fantasy/romantasy. I’d like to thank the author for allowing me to read this amazing story as an ARC. This is my honest review.
February 1, 2025
This is another excellent book in the same universe as the Gwen St. James series (which I also loved). This time, we get a closer look into the life and identity of the Cutthroat King, who was introduced in the St. Jamea books, and learn alot more about the Undercourt he rules below New London. By the time the plot twist came, I suspected it, but it was well written and kept me engaged all the same. I like how well this story tied into the St. James stories while still feeling like it's own standalone piece. I hope another book is coming after this one with more of Raeth and Willow. I'm so glad I got to read the ARC of this one.
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