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Take Her: A Barbast Novel: Book One

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Protection for loyalty. . . would you offer the same?

Narina Brevou was never meant to wear a crown. She was meant to marry Diamo, the man who has loved her since childhood, and live a quiet life in their village, Verti. But fate, and the King, have other plans. Torn from her home, she is thrust into a world of rigid tradition, forced into an unwanted betrothal to a Prince as unreadable as he is short-tempered.

The palace is not just gilded halls and court whispers; it is a cage. Obedience is survival and defiance is punished. Every moment is a battle between the fire in her soul and the rules that threaten to break her. However, Narina is not so easily broken.

She fights to escape, fights to return to the life that was stolen from her. No matter how far she is taken from Verti, her heart refuses to forget. But the King does not tolerate rebellion, and the more she resists, the more he punishes. He demands her obedience, the Prince wants her loyalty, and the weight of duty is suffocating.

As love and duty wage war in her heart, Narina soon learns that not all prisons have walls. Some are built with vows that can never be broken. As the stakes rise and her past and future collide, Narina must make an impossible choice. How much of herself is she willing to sacrifice? And what if the only way to protect those she loves most. . . is the one thing she swore she’d never do?

351 pages, Paperback

Published June 6, 2025

9 people are currently reading
195 people want to read

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Kinsley Kane

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5 stars
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15 (28%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
Profile Image for Nicole.
34 reviews7 followers
June 17, 2025
**ARC Review**

I have never in all my emotionally unstable, romance-obsessed reading life been so gloriously traumatized by a heroine like Narina. This girl has been through it. Parental abuse? Check. Ripped away from her fated mate, Diamo (who, by the way, is the kind of man who makes you believe in love and probably multiple orgasms)? Double check.

Then boom—she’s snatched like a prized broodmare for royal baby-making. Yep, she’s basically gifted to the prince so he can break her will and breed an heir. I was screaming, “I WILL RIOT.” But then… plot twist: the prince (Ryden) isn’t just a royal jerk. He’s complicated. Empathetic. And maybe a little hot in that tortured, enemies-to-trauma-bonding kind of way. Still has to act like a savage in front of Daddy Dearest the King though. Cue the moral turmoil.

The writing? It wrecked me. The pain, the beauty, the feral rage Narina holds onto is freaking poetry. My blood pressure spiked. My jaw clenched. I’m still walking around ready to fight fictional monarchs for her.

This book isn’t just a read—it’s a whole emotional hostage situation. 10/10 would suffer again. Buying the next one and building a shrine on my bookshelf for Narina and her strength. Long may she stab toxic men with her words (or a sword, honestly, I’d support either).
Profile Image for Angelique.
52 reviews
June 24, 2025
ARC review

You want a badass FMC and a jerk face but empathetic MMC PRINCE!? You've come to the right place.

This beautifully written, well paced, heart wretching book will have you glued to your rollercoaster seat. no, not your reading chair-you read it right. I most defintiley was, and my pillows have the scars to prove it.

Don't walk, RUN! ASAP no rocky.
Profile Image for Kat.
247 reviews25 followers
June 13, 2025
This book had me hooked, I have stayed up way too late because I simply could not put it down.

This story follows a young woman, Narina, who is strong, fearless, and quite often finds herself in trouble. The world that she lives in sees women as servants to their mates (husbands), and before they are mated, they are servants to their fathers. Narina has always wanted more out of life. She wants to be her own person and is very vocal while living a world that does not want women to speak their minds.

You follow her journey, through ups and downs, and through many different twists. This story is not a happy one, their is violence and abuse, lots of men being very sexist but also there is a story of woman who wont quit, wont give up and truly believes in finding her own future. There is also a very layered romance twisted throughout that honestly ties the whole story together. It truly had me kicking and screaming while also screaming over the things Narina has to endure. Cannot wait for the next one to see where her journey goes next!

I was lucky enough to receive an arc of this amazing novel and am leaving a review of my own thoughts and feelings
Profile Image for Allie Kat.
28 reviews
June 28, 2025
Okay. The first half of this book didn't really capture my attention as much as I was wanting it to. Narina got swiped from her hometown, tragically ripped from the love of her life so that she could marry the Prince. She tried to escape multiple times and failed. The King is a monster but the Prince isn't. Etc. But the second half of this book? It's like I had tripped and went careening down the side of a cliff, especially once I hit chapter forty. What happened with Andreya was awful, yes. But what Narina was forced to witness and the explanation Darius gave? I wanted so much more. SO. MUCH. MORE. I wanted to know absolutely everything else that happened in that space. (I really am a glutton for punishment, pun fully intended.) I wanted to know what the Prince was capable of. I want to know more about the Prince, whose name I didn't realize we didn't know until right before Narina had the same thought. My heart is so sad for Diamo - and I'm terrified of what's going to happen to him in the next book, because I know something is happening to this poor, angelic soul. And now I want the next book immediately, because I refuse to read the bonus first chapter of the second book until I have the entire second book in my possession. Overall, this book finally caught me - and now I refuse to let go.
Profile Image for A Novel Encounter.
18 reviews1 follower
June 24, 2025
I was very grateful to receive an ARC copy of this book. I knew when I signed up that this would hit the spot!! The story is paced perfectly and had me hooked from the beginning.

Where to start? Narina is a village girl with a simplistic life where women are seen and not heard, with a strict upbringing. There's a friends to lovers vibe, due to be betrothed. All seems well, until well it isn't!

Something big happens....and we see the struggles Narina goes through, defying all odds when they are truly stacked against her in a world where she is expected to submit when she is a wildcard. Lessons are had, and the plot thickens. This book will have you feeling frustrated, intrigued, and wanting more.

I could not fault this book, hence the five stars.

If you love enemies to lovers, forced proximity, slow burns, and possessiveness, then I promise you won't be disappointed. There's a small amount of spice, but it's written so well!

I genuinely found this was a book I could not put down, squeezing it in wherever I could and had me staying up way past my bedtime! I can't help but feel a little obsessed with Ryden hehe.

I honestly can't wait for the second book, Break Her.

Kinsley is an amazing writer and should be so proud.
Profile Image for Tasha .
106 reviews
June 13, 2025
The frustration! It was amazing and enraging and intense all in one book that I was privileged to get an ARC... now I need the BOOK!!! The writing is gripping and the story envelopes the reader (me!).

The FMC Narina is everything you want her to be, while you are yelling at her to just sit down! The defiance, self assurance, determination, just YES (followed by "girl, just stop!") in a time when women were supposed to be more than just subservient. More than just submissive. They were property (check the trigger warnings). Narina dominates, and fumbles, and fights, and you feel every second of it. I devoured this story. The only reason it took me two days to read was because work got in the way (being a grown up takes all the fun out of reading).

I was captivated from beginning to end, my eyes couldn't read fast enough for my heart not to give in to find out WHAT NEXT?!?! I am grateful for the lack of air sucking cliffhanger, but I am dying to continue this story. So of course I downloaded the bonus chapter AND read the sneak peak!!

Brava Lady Kinsley
Profile Image for Louise McConnell.
16 reviews3 followers
January 16, 2026
I absolutely loved Take Her. Narina is such a strong FMC, resilient, determined, and completely unbreakable no matter what is thrown at her. I loved how she refuses to let anyone or anything crush her spirit.

I really enjoyed the tension surrounding the royal family. We know the king is evil, but the uncertainty around the prince kept me hooked. Is he genuinely kind and trustworthy to Narina, or is he playing a very convincing game? That constant doubt added so much depth and intrigue to the story.

Her father, though, was absolutely awful. I would not have minded seeing him put in the stocks.

The teaser of chapter one from Break Her was fantastic. Ending the book with that glimpse was such a clever move, and I cannot wait to find out what on earth Narina says to him next.

I also loved how beautifully the outfits were described. The attention to detail, even down to the buttons, made everything feel vivid and immersive.

Overall, this felt refreshingly different from anything I have read recently. Gripping, emotional, and beautifully written. A definite 5 star read for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Brittany T.
280 reviews13 followers
June 14, 2025
I could not set this book down, I was hooked from the beginning! I loved Narina and the way she took on all the obstacles that were placedin her way. A book weighted heavily with choices at every turn and the dream to be more than just a servant to the men in your life who are suppose to be the ones who love you. I love how even during a time where woman should be seen and not heard and stick to their duties Narina still dreamed of more of something better, something that was her choice and not somebody elses. This book was truly great and I am so thankful that I was given this to be able to arc read. This book is wonderful written every twist and turn you feel as if you were the character in the book . I would recommend this book to anyone who loves a great read with a strong willed fmc that gets herself in some precarious situations.
Profile Image for TheLiterary Mug.
216 reviews8 followers
June 24, 2025
Captivating! It hooks you in and doesn’t let up! Narina, a heroine whose story is a testament to the transformative power of resilience and love. Her past, marked by hardship, has not defined her with challenges she has to face head-on.

Wrenched away from Diamo, her fated, in a dramatic twist, she's selected to join the royal family, with the weighty responsibility of bearing an heir. Yet, the prince, Ryden, proves to be more than meets the eye.

MMC’s empathetic nature, and undeniable appeal, as he challenges expectations while navigating his royal duties, Ryden's internal conflict sparks a deeper exploration of morality.

Narina's journey is a masterful blend of pain, beauty, and defiance. This book is an emotional odyssey, as a reminder that even in darkness, there is always light.

Warning: this book will hijack your emotions and hold them hostage.
Profile Image for Bee .
23 reviews
February 18, 2026
After seeing this recommended on TikTok I just had to give it ago and I'm so glad I did.

The FMC, Narina has had a hard upbringing and very difficult relationship with her father, she is finally about to marry the man who she has loved since she was a young girl. However, the world has different plans and she finds herself taken from the only place she has ever known, far from the man she loves and becomes engaged to the prince, who is mysterious with an unclear motivations.

Narina is a resilient and determined character who fights her situation and tries to return to the man she loves but due to reasons beyond her control she must decide whether to accept protection for loyalty.

After that ending, I can't wait to read the second book and see where this story goes.

What to expect:

- arranged marriage
- dark fantasy
- enemies to reluctant allies/ lovers
- dangerous court intrigue
- forced proximity
21 reviews
February 14, 2026
fell in love with it instantly.

I had this in my library for a while and decided to read it finally. So glad I did I love this story. I love the characters and the relationships between them and Narina.
It’s fun and light hearted, then it’s devastating and miserable.
You will love the fmc instantly, there’s nothing to hate about her. She’s fierce but not a warrior or trained fighter she’s still a girl who needs saving apparently.
I can’t wait to read book 2 ‘Break Her’ and find out how she deals with what happened and how every other character develops too.
Kinsey Kane did a brilliant job of making you fall in live with the main characters and become invested in what happens to them.
Profile Image for Amber Charpentier.
47 reviews2 followers
June 25, 2025
I just finished "Take Her" and I'm completely blown away by this fantasy masterpiece! The story follows Ryden and Narina, two characters from vastly different worlds whose paths intertwine in the most interesting of ways.

The character development throughout the book is phenomenal. The tension and yearning early in the book, which develops into such a surprise situation, set this book apart! Narina is such a fighter, and it’s interesting to see where that fighting spirit lands her. I love the love story, the heartbreak, the fights, the consequences, just everything about this book! This book is going to keep me up at night waiting for the next one.
Profile Image for Kathlyn-Nicole Milne.
15 reviews2 followers
August 3, 2025
Spoiler free review
I absolutely adored this book. My friend bought it for me knowing I would love the MMC and she wasn't wrong.
This soft fantasy was stunning. the world was built effortlessly and romantically. There was just enough characters to keep my mind buzzing but also not too many so it made it an easy read.

I found the middle of the book a little repetitive which is the only reason I have given it 4 stars. I will definitely be buying the 2nd book. I am already hooked just from the sneak speak chapter 🤯

This would be a great read for contemporary romance reader hoping to read more Romantasy, I feel this would be a great gateway into the Genre
Profile Image for Yesenia.
238 reviews17 followers
June 17, 2025
Get ready for an emotional rollercoaster with this gripping tale! "Narina Brevou" had me on the edge of my seat, rooting for our heroine in every page turn. The struggle between love and duty is depicted with raw emotion, making it a heart-wrenching journey. As the plot thickens, the tension keeps you hooked till the very end. The author weaves a captivating story filled with surprises and tough choices that kept me guessing. A must-read for those craving a mix of passion, sacrifice, and unbreakable spirit in a world full of constraints. Brace yourself for a soul-stirring experience.
Profile Image for Mary.
188 reviews8 followers
June 18, 2025
Just finished this incredible book, and wow—I was totally immersed from the very first page! I loved how Narina dared to dream beyond the roles assigned to her, pushing past being just seen and not heard, or living as a servant to the men around her who claim to love her. The writing is absolutely stunning, and the twists had me on the edge of my seat! The author truly pulls you into the story, making you feel like you're part of the adventure. If you're a fan of strong-willed heroines navigating their way through tough times, this read is a must and I highly recommend!
Profile Image for Julie Wilkins .
13 reviews
June 18, 2025
***Arc Review***

Absolutely devoured this book! The book kept my attention and I was engaged the whole time!

It was an emotional rollercoaster from the very beginning to the end! The writing was great. The author does a fantastic job of making it easy to visualize yourself in the story watching everything that is happening.

I am so grateful to have been selected as part of the arc team! This is a book I would easily recommend to everyone I know and I look forward to the release so that I can get a trophy for myself.
Profile Image for Ashley Davis.
90 reviews1 follower
June 19, 2025
Dedication is superb. The storytellers remind me of The Name of the Wind. This book also gave The Claiming of Sleeping Beauty vibes but not as dark, and if the prince was nice, and not a lot of spice. The vibes of this book. Mrs. Kane, I can't wait for book two. This book gave me all the emotions. The pace was just right all the way through. Great plot with an after thought of romance. The blended flashbacks for Narina (FMC) we're beautifully done. They not only brought Narina to life but carried the story along as well. Kinsley Kane you've done a wonderful job. Thank you for this work
Profile Image for Erin Saulpaugh.
526 reviews16 followers
June 17, 2025
I honestly loved the beginning! it was so hard to see Narina be taken away from Diamo. It crushed my heart! They had what women dream of...
This book kind of reminded me of the handmade Tale... Same Idea, really.
I cried. screamed at the book (silently got littles asleep, lol). I was ready to come save her, lol... Truth is, Narina is a strong woman who has been through some shit! I want to be more like her. I have a hard time saying how im feeling around others. unless im with my family.
Profile Image for Sarah Suhr.
10 reviews
June 18, 2025
**Arc review**

This book had me from the beginning; a fast paced story you will want to see through to the end.

Narina is our strong, defiant FMC, continuously fighting for her own independence. And you will FEEL the frustration and heartbreak with her.

I am excited to see where Narina goes from here!

**Trigger warning** please note, this book does contain on page physical abuse. There is a scene of implied threat of SA.
Profile Image for LissaCole1206.
21 reviews1 follower
June 23, 2025
I honestly hate that I had to adult and was unable to finish this in one sitting! I loved this! I cannot wait to get the 2nd book. I completely fell in love with the FMC! Her fight and bravery! She’s willing to do whatever it takes to protect the people she loves. My heart is breaking for her and her love. Buuuuut I’m kind of falling for the MMC! The author did an amazing job with this story. I definitely need the physical copy for my shelf! Will be a reread for sure!
Profile Image for Kelley Joy.
168 reviews3 followers
June 14, 2025
This book kept me hooked through the whole story. This is amazing romance, with forced proximity. If you like older time frames and forces bounded mates . This book follows a strong MFC who doesn't want to follow the laws of her city , till she Is taken to the capital to be mated to the prince . I highly recommend this book if you like forced proximity and a strong MFC.
Profile Image for Amanda White Thomas.
48 reviews
June 30, 2025
This hurt my heart. I feel like the Prince might be holding back some secret but I can’t decide what it is. My heart hurt for Narina and Diamos life that was stolen. The king really is a bad man and my hope is for the Prince to overthrow him. That ending…… what a cliff hanger. Can’t wait for the next book.
Profile Image for Shannlyn Bruce.
5 reviews
July 2, 2025
This book is so good! I’m looking forward to Book 2!

Please check your triggers before reading. Follow Narina as she is ripped from the life she was dreaming of living with Diamo, her fiancée. She goes from her home of her abusive father to the palace of the king. There she is being forced to marry the prince and produce an heir.

It’s a roller coaster of a journey!
Profile Image for Distracted  Melody .
112 reviews1 follower
June 15, 2025
I was trapped in these pages until there were no more pages to turn and I immediately wished for a book 2. This is one of the most believable FMCs and the world she lives in is infuriating. A young girl is fighting against a mold she is repeatedly forced into and it changes everything for her.
Profile Image for readingandrotting .
5 reviews
June 26, 2025
ARC review

5⭐!!(no spoilers) this book had me wanting more I've never read a book with this unique story and the FMC and MMC OMG theyyy u will fall in love there's no way u can't!! run to read it u will definitely not be disappointed!!!
35 reviews
June 18, 2025
Great read. Absolutely loved it.
Profile Image for Midnight Ramblings.
108 reviews
September 3, 2025
"It is not my choice either," he says after a moment. "This tradition exists t preserve the bloodline." He watches me closely. "But, if I'm honest...I am not sorry that it was you."
Profile Image for Meagen Jongewaard.
181 reviews6 followers
July 4, 2025
What an emotional rollercoaster! Right off the bat the MFC dealt with so much heartbreak and dispair, and this just kept on going. What one might consider a golden opportunity, for her was just another take on what she had experienced her whole life. There is so much more to unfold and figure with this world and these characters.

Please check trigger warnings, as there a many dark themes within this book.
Profile Image for Bianca.
16 reviews1 follower
July 19, 2025
I don't want to give too much away. This book started a little slow but definitely picked up early on. The FMC is feisty and bold. You get to see her journey in a kingdom that wants to silence women. She is taken by the king to be part of an arranged marriage. She doesn't go without a fight. The dynamic with her betrothed is very interesting and I can't wait to see what happens in the next book.

This is a MUST READ!
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