Now that the threat to Ever is imprisoned and gone for good, she can focus on what really matters: getting rid of the goblins living in her house as “protection” and getting back to work capturing rogue Fae for the Magical Enforcement and Containment Agency. Too bad fate doesn’t agree with her plans.
Ever’s mother is still missing, and Ever and her crew must find an ancient race long believed dead. As questions pile up and danger creeps closer, Ever can no longer deny the pull Dare has over her heart. And her body. As they forge a new bond, betrayal strikes, and it’s closer to home than either of them could have imagined.
Trouble stirs. Alliances fall. The only thing that binds them together is the trust they’ve put in each other and the emotions Ever refuses to name. Everything starts to crumble, and those Ever protects are no longer free from danger. Will she keep those she holds dear safe? Or will she be left to pick up the pieces?
Graceley Knox is a USA Today bestselling author of over 35 novels featuring wicked paranormal and fantasy romances, and the founder of Paper Myths Media. Graceley has been in the publishing industry for over twelve years in some way or another, wearing pretty much every hat other than that of editor and cover designer (Although give her a minute, and she might change that last part!).
She’s also 100% addicted to coffee and snarky mugs, and is determined to one day have a library that would make Belle cry. As a self-professed book-obsessed word witch, Graceley is fascinated with witchcraft, mythology, lore, and, of course, fantasy worlds! When she’s not caught up in her current hyper-fixation (shout out to her fellow ADHD Warriors!) she’s either writing books or reading them… Or talking about them, or taking photos of them for her bookstagram.
Graceley is also a Ravenclaw who’s been known to binge-watch tv-shows featuring strong female leads while cuddling with her fur-babies.
She loves to connect with fellow bibliophiles on social media, so stop by and say hello!
Pretty good sequel. The story itself and this book’s plot could easily deserve 4 stars or even 5, but I have a few issues with the execution.
What I liked: • all the intrigue and the slowly unveiled prophecy and mystery • the setting in the fae kingdoms • how Ever’s relationship is developing, and the fact that it is woven into the plot and not the other way around • the fact that the secondary characters had a bit more of a role
What I didn’t like: • the typos/grammatical errors • the cringey language during sex scenes (less, but still too much) • the world building could use some work. It’s faerie FFS, let’s paint a bit of a picture, shall we? It sounds about as magical as landing at JFK. • Ever’s language and attitude, which is frankly too much at times. I do a fair amount of swearing myself and I totally get the whole “I’m my own woman, and I don’t give a crap if you like it or not” but honestly, the way she expresses herself feels like it was overdone for shock value at times, and what sucks is that it’s distracting. It could stand to be tuned down a bit. I believe in the expressive value of a well-placed “fuck”, but if one starts sounding like she went browsing through UrbanDictionary.com for dialogue inspiration, I think that’s a little much. Swear words should enhance the expression of the concept, not distract from it. So there 😁
I am going to go straight into the third book because I want to know WTF is going to happen with the whole mess of prophecies and crazies and all, and I have no time to waste! Only got KU for 2 1/2 more days!
I am so in LOVE with this series! Graceley Knox has bowled me over with her amazing world building. I want to stay immersed in Wicked Kingdoms and live there awhile - with Ever’s protection of course. She is K.I.C.K.A.S.S.
There is a lot happening in this book. It starts off right where book one ends. There is no slowing down Ever and her crew. Crown of Betrayal has a well thought out and put together plot with many twists and turns that make the journey so sweet. I have fallen in love with all of these characters (well, the good gals/guys). There are some seriously BAD, bad gals/guys too. I’ve enjoyed watching them get their due.
The Wicked Kingdoms series is so much more than an awesome world to be in. The love story between Ever and Dare is intense, sweet, and hot - all at the same time. I love that their story is part of the over arching plot of the books. Theirs is definitely a story that takes more than one book to tell. You won’t be disappointed.
Crown of Betrayal is a darker read than Mark of Truth (Book 1). Ever has many trials to go through and overcome. She and her crew are the very essence of what friendships should consist of: honesty, love, and loyalty. Friendship that we all hope to attain and consider ourselves lucky when we do.
Definitely read the books in this series in order. I highly recommend both. I’m looking forward to Book 3. I can’t wait to see what happens next! This is a series that I will read time and time again.
This continues right where the first book ended. I liked it better, it was more tightly written and the plot progresses well with a crazy prophecy and betrayal at most corners. I loved Puck, the intro of the Druids and we get a peek into the Dark Elven Kingdom, which I really hope we get more of. I'll definitely be reading the next one when it comes out. I think this author has good things ahead.
Ok, so back where book one left off, Ever and her band of misfits, along with Dare and his brothers are trying to protect everyone but stuff is just not working. Everything that can go wrong obviously does, but with the hilarity of most situations I forget when I'm supposed to be mad, lol. I loved these characters all over again, I didn't get bored and want to give up I just needed to know what exactly was going on.
Now...the bad part... I excused it in book one because it was more of an introduction to everything. I went in this knowing it was a series so I only wanted character development...well we got that but I feel like there's never any answers for anything... Ever finally accepts a relationship with Dare but even a blind man can see there's something more to it... Ever keeps thinking "I need to ask them about this and that" but never actually asks or anything.. it's a lot of back and forth. Hopefully book three can finally give us some insight.
Regardless it's worth the read, you kind of have to go through the sand to reach the beach...not sure if that makes sense lol but yeah awesome read..😊
More kickass Ever, more action, more loyalty, more frustration at big sexy goblins.
You leave Ever in Book One with more questions then answers and Book Two strives to give you some before the last page. Dare is persistent and sexy as hell, her MECA team and family cause you to sigh with happiness at how close and loyal they are. Dagan and Dax put smiles on your face. Basically you jump straight back in as if you never had a break.
More intrigue and surprises, not sure you get answers but Knox had me loving every second. Knox has me hooked and I just want to get my hands on the next book!
This second novel was more cohesive than the first, with a better flow despite the frequent spelling errors and need to improve some of the structure. The book continues on smoothly remaining true to the storyline. The full team of characters strongly support the mood of the novel as the plot and political maneuvering deepen. I'm definitely continuing to the next book.
I had the greatest pleasure to receive a review copy. Let me tell you, I could not put it down. The only disappointment is I completely read it and want more. Ever is back and her struggles with the Fae and it's world are not making things easy for her. She's experiencing betrayal from every corner possible. They only ones she can loyally count on is her team. They have her back and go to war with her. Make no assumptions that you are going to know exactly what is going to happen. When you think the clues are taking you steps further into finding the truth, Bam! The paranormal world turns and it is taking you on another chapter of adventure. Without giving too much away, this story has thrilling adventure, hot and sexy characters, and a great smooth plot. Graceley, you are a wonderful writer and I cannot wait for the next installment. Thank you for the opportunity and readers you need to seriously pick up this book. Get your copy now! Crown of BetrayalGraceley Knox Betty xx
We got ourselves an obsessive, magical, jam-packed with action, paranormal romantic phenomenon with Gracely Knox's second Wicked Kingdoms Novel, Crown of Betrayal! I am in true amazement over how thrilling the plot, characters and storyline is. Its completely fresh and utterly sexy with a wicked charm that defies most paranormal romances. That right there, is what draws me in. That and the fact our heroine, Ever, is a kick-ass woman that is tough, compassionate but takes NO crap! I love HER! And Dare...OMG this Goblin has me all sorts of weak in the knees and has me sighing over everything he does. He has an appeal that is just...mouthwatering!
Crown Of Betrayal moves at a clip pace that keeps getting juicier and has twists that I found myself eager to find out how they turn out...and that ending...Perfect freaking cliff hanger! Dare and Ever are the ULTIMATE BAD-ASS couple that will be a VERY powerful couple when things are settled. I have NO DOUBTS about THAT!
Crown Of Betrayal is beautifully written. Gracely Knox is a talented author that brings The Wicked Kingdoms to life as well as every fae and goblin and creature. Its one of the BEST books you could pick up this summer! I give it FIREWORK INDUCING FIVE SHOOTING STARS!
Oh my freaking LORD. Talk about a stunning sophomore book. I had such high expectations after devouring "Mark of Truth", and every single one of them was blown OUT OF THE WATER with this twisting, turning, sweeping, sexy, and exciting sequel. Honestly, reading Graceley Knox is like a fantastic new discovery at every turn. Ever Leath is Anita Blake given a fresh new voice, with a sweet spicy tinge of Sookie and Claire Fraser tossed in for good measure. As the man fated to love her, Dare is bold but humble, confident but sensual. Blend them into a plot that takes the entire "crew" into fantastic new realms, and you have a book that captivates even us "non PNR" people. So freaking good!
What a great book! I couldn't put it down. Ever, is no damsel. She is born leader with an crew to support her! Never thought I would be attracted to a Goblin before. Dare oh Dare! The book is Hot, creative and exciting to read. Sucks you right into their world! Highly recommend.
I loved this book!! I couldn't put it down!! I'm happy that Ever is finally giving Dare a break, and letting him in a little. I can't wait for the next book!
I really do adore this series. I love that we got to see the relationship between Dare and Ever advance a little bit. The world building is still going on, and I'm loving the direction that it is taking. I also really like Arela and how she is evolving as a character (possible spin off??) I took off a star though because sometime Ever really drove me crazy. At times she was a bit too stubborn and abrasive for my liking.
Book two in Ms. Knox’s amazing fantasy series begins right where we left off in book one. Ever and her crew are still trying to make sense of everything that has happened. Her mother is missing, but whether there is foul play or she’s gone into hiding is unclear. Ever thinks that she’s safe from the immediate threat of Cashel, who is in a dungeon somewhere, but that doesn’t mean she is letting her guard down. She is worried about her mother, she’s worried about what will happen to her if her father is, in fact, Tore who is a Goblin, and she has no idea how to handle her growing feelings for Dare, the Goblin King’s son and her self-appointed protector. Her “to do” list gets longer by the day.
First on the list, find some Druids! These ancient beings have not been seen for eons and no one really knows how to find them, but apparently they are the only ones who can confirm Ever’s parentage. While Ever wants to know the truth, of course, the ramifications of her being half elf and half goblin could be deadly--for her and her parents. Add to that the fact that she’ll most certainly lose her position and MECA, she worries what this will mean for her crew. Then there is Arela, the little goblin girl she’s taken under her protection. What will become of her, should something happen to Ever.
And woven in between all the unknown and dread, Ever is trying to keep a lid on her feelings for Dare. Though their connection is real and felt on both sides, Ever remains steadfast in that only hurt and pain will come if she just lets herself fall for him. She and Dare have had some very intense moments, but Ever always pulls back, checks herself and reminds herself that they can never be.
Ms. Knox has gifted us with a spectacular 2nd book in this fantastical series that brings to life elves, goblins, and all manner of fae in a world that is filled with not only danger, but wonder. The prophecy that there is a girl who will unite the Goblin and Light Elven Kingdoms seems to drive this story as we follow Ever and her crew as they attempt to navigate the unknown. Along the way we are introduced to creatures and additional fae beings and it is left to the reader to decide sometimes, if they be friend or foe. One thing is clear, Ever is special and while she may not know why, or want to believe it yet, she holds the key to something that will cause great change within the fae world.
With the introduction of some key characters in this book, Knox moves the story forward so that we can make some assumptions, though she skillfully keeps the issues far from confirmed. We meet a character named Puck who is responsible for both good and bad happenings, but his good deeds do redeem him a bit for me. I’ve decided to place him more on the side of good guy at the moment, though I do worry that he may not be all that he seems. By far, though, the most entrancing character introduced was the queen of the Unseelie Court, Queen Nicnivin. She gifted Ever with visions to help guide her on her course, and though Ever is still walking into so much that is unknown, she now has an idea of what may happen and can approach it with some knowledge. I’ve decided to believe that Nicnivin only has Ever’s best interests at heart. I think she may know more than she is letting on, but feels she is shouldn’t voice it as yet. Perhaps Ever must come to certain revelations on her own and at the right time.
While I am blown away with the fantasy of this world, I am fully invested in the romance between Dare and Ever. We see Ever let her guard down just a bit as she allows herself to live in the moment and enjoy Dare’s attention. We spend a lot of time in Ever’s head so we are really clear on what is going on there as far as Dare is concerned. Ever has it bad, though she continues to talk herself out of what could be. Since she refuses to accept that Tore is her father, she continues to presume that a relationship with Dare can never be; and when she decides to give in just a little, something will happen and she’ll talk herself out of it and rebuild her walls. I would love to be in Dare’s head for a change because his comments and actions can be so contradicting. I’m going to venture a guess that Dare also knows more than he’s letting on and wants Ever to come to him in her own time. He’s amazingly patient and is giving Ever the time she needs. I’m just happy they give in to their base needs every once in awhile. I couldn’t stand it if they were holding out for the right time. Dare is very generous with his attentions.
Crown of Betrayal takes a darker look at the fae realm as we see true evil show itself and hurt innocent people. The world building in here continues to draw in the reader as we venture into different realms and learn more about all it’s hidden treasures. A lot happens in this installment and while we get a few answers, important things are still left open and somewhat unclear. Sometimes we are given hints that just cause more questions. It’s just enough to keep the reader satisfied, while longing for the next book.
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention Ever’s crew. This tight knit unit is the embodiment of loyalty, proving over and over that family does not have to connect you to someone by blood, but that bonds can be formed with people of your own choosing. Ever has this in Eryn, Axel, Doyle and Kirin. They follow Ever and stand by her without question. I can’t wait to get to know them better and hope Ms. Knox has plans for future books that explore these characters. I feel like we haven’t even scratched the surface where they are concerned.
If you love anything about fantasy, fae and such, I recommend this series. I do caution you to read them in order, however.
We are reunited with Ever, Dare and their gang of misfits. Throw in some actions, suspense and some steamy moments and we have Crown of Betrayal.
"With one word, everything I’ve done for MECA, and for the leath cine, will be called into question. With one word, my world will tumble off the edge of a cliff and I’ll fall down. I’ll fall down, and I’m not sure I’ll be able to pick myself up after a fall like that."
Thinking that nothing else can go wrong, Ever and her friends are brought into the Goblin Kingdom, where they are promised safety. But being safe isn’t in Ever’s vocabulary, and she is again in danger, which angers everyone that cares about her. Fighting their way through truths and a whole bunch of crazy, will Ever and Dare succeed in making life in their kingdoms peaceful?
"And just like that, the last wall protecting my heart from this goblin falls. My mind races and my chest constricts in fear, but Dare smiles again and the tension releases."
Again, this book is amazing! Graceley is massively talented! Every word that she writes is full of energy and promise of greater things to come! Crown of Betrayal is a perfect mix of good and evil, and leaves you wanting more!! Ever and Dare are like day and night, but they work so perfectly together. Introductions to some new characters, goes flawlessly, and they fit right into the story!
"Repeal the declaration? Allow leath cine to live in the Light Elven Kingdom? Allow mixed marriages and cross breedings amongst the different kingdoms again? I refrain from fist pumping at the thought of hundreds of years of prejudice and persecution disappearing with one little scrap of paper."
So far the first two books are a really really solid start for a new indie author. I am a total junkie for anything fae and got so excited to find something new!
There's a lot I like about this: *The whole premise of the plot (half-breed fae, the different kingdoms, the prophecy surrounding Ever, etc) *Ever, the MC - I won't give any spoilers so far but I love that she's a badass and can take of herself and her crew *The love story - and the steamy scenes that go with it *All the backup characters
With all that said, I still give this 3 stars. I think it's more the manner of the storytelling that doesn't totally work for me. There are so many awesome things happening with the plot, but I feel like it doesn't really progress much. I feel like each book so far has only spanned a couple of days. And half that time, you are reading Ever's internal conflict of who she can trust outside of her crew and what to do about Dare (the love interest). I guess I want more story progression and a little more depth to Ever (and Dare - this is not dual POV so I feel like his character development is a little lacking too).
I still plan to continue with the series. The ending of Book 2 really sets it up for some action so I am hoping things pick up.
Full disclosure - This is an on-going series so each ending so far has been cliffy. I am not sure if this will be a trilogy or longer.
Crown of Betrayal is the second book in the new series by Graceley Knox of Wicked Kingdoms.
The prophecy will begin...
From the ending of Mark of Truth, Ever has taken in a girl as her own called Arela and is ordered by the Goblin King to take with her back to the human realm for protection his three sons... one Ever's only thought...Dane.
The beginning of Crown on Betrayal continues with the three Goblin brother continuing living with the crew and Arela. It's a couple months now since all of what had happened since the last book with the prophecy, choosing who to side with, who is her father, her crazy cousin and who she really is.
But we see that the quiet has finished and the noise is back with traitors lurking in corner, kidnappings and secrets lying in wait to be heard.
I 100% recommend this to anyone who loves supernatural creatures, paranormal romance, a world of faes, a tight family who never give up on one another and a goblin who doesn't take no for an answer.
This was a really good continuation of Evers story I loved every minute of it and hated when I had to put it down. We follow the story of Ever a half breed female warrior who protects the elven court with her team from mischievous fae but it becomes apparent that Ever`s story isn't going to have an happily ever after just yet. After capturing Cashel and trying to move on with her life whilst holding back her feelings about Dare, Ever has to deal with old and new enemies trying to use her for their own twisted agenda. But Ever will do whatever it takes to protect those she loves and let's just say with new allies they better watch out. This was such a interesting book and I loved the character of Ever and her team I really enjoyed the conflict that shows, the turmoil Ever has to endure over being who she is. This was a very fast paced read with some adult scenes that we're too hot (loved it) and showed many sides of betrayal and companionship. Can't wait to get on to the next book to find out what happens to ever and her team.
I absolutely enjoy this series, and upon finishing I always immediately want the next book.
Crown of Betrayal read more like the middle of a book instead of a stand alone. Don't get me wrong, I truly enjoyed it, but it didn't read like a book you could just pick up without having read the first one. I liked Ever, she is relatable and funny, but she rides that line of having an extreme personality that can easily get on a readers nerves. By that I mean she reminds me of an energy drink commercial that has no chill. I'm hoping as the series progresses we see a little more calm energy injected into her personality as she matures. I still love the scenes with Dare, and I feel like when Ever and Dare are together that the more annoying nuisances of Ever's extreme personality calm down. Not to mention their chemistry is off the charts hot.
I'm looking forward to continuing with this series.
Here are so many things and characters to like about this series. The sex scenes, however, do nothing but detract from an otherwise compelling tale. The erotica moving an exciting but of fantasy into Not Safe For Work status without being sufficiently titillating to make it worthy of clandestine reading benges . The sex scenes are clumsy and crude. I will not be reading more of this series and will consider putting the author on my personal do not download at any price list.
When done well, I can enjoy steamy and even full on pornographic erotica. When done poorly it is !rarely annoying. The device of integrating intimate romantic encounters into a story requires a great deal of skill and is easily bungled. In this case it would have been better to have cut it out altogether. It is a pity since I was enjoying the overarching plot.
A pretty damned good second installment to an intriguing story. It picked up exactly where book one left off and the seams of the story wove together a little more fully this time. Dare and Ever continue to have an abundance of angsty chemistry and I’m waiting impatiently for them to become mated.
I love the secondary characters even more than in the first book as they had deeper roles with more action. The introduction of Puck in this installment gave me all the smiles and happy vibes. I didn’t expect his appearance and I love seeing his character brought about in new ways in differing stories from various authors.
I’m curious where book three will take our characters and ready to hit the pages.
We all know by now that I binge an entire series and leave the same review for each book, so here goes. I love Ever and Dare together. I have been reading a ton of RH lately though, so I kept waiting for Dax or Doyle to jump in there, but nope, this one is a one on one folks.
Things I loved: the world building was great. Some of our side characters tried to steal the show. The GARGOYLES! Still waiting for Doom and Danger to make a re-appearance.
Things I did not: The ending of the series? Was that the ending? Is there another book coming? With the dates that the last one was published, I assume not, but that was an "interesting" place to end it. So many questions unanswered....
I liked book one for the most part until Arela came in.
Not that Arela is a bad character but the whole "What your being treated poorly!? Ok your my kid now!"
WTF? Like Ever and her crew just swoop in and take her out of the goblin kingdom and to earth.
Then book two shht happens and it's all ahhmerrgrrr I love this 14 year old child (not really a child at that age...) which isn't bad BUT! I didn't feel it at all. There was ZERO bonding. It all just seemed meh...
Also the sex talk ick.
And this is a world of magic and fantasy and yet we're is the magic and fantasy?!
The Wicked Kingdoms series has rapidly become one of my all time faves. Book 1 had me completely enthralled and book 2 easily follows suit. Graceley Knox has a way with her characters that instantly endears you to them. Whats not to love about a kick ass MC who doesnt take crap from anyone? Throw in a sexy love interest, some awesome steam and its no wonder I can't put theses books down. Its going to be a loooooong wait till October!
I was drawn in from the first book with her imagery and characters and the way she continues the storyline and grew the characters kept me going through this book. I really hope something happens with Arela and Brodie in the next book or maybe a spin-off series or novella when she’s a little older... but that’s just me being wishful cause I get attached to secondary characters and want romances for everyone.
Cashel's escaped from prison and with the help of the Queen of Goblins to capture Ever's ward , Arela, has Ever suspended from MECA and tries to capture her again. Will Ever find her answers?
Book 2 is full of adventure and the more our heroine finds out about herself the more questions she has. A page turning epic that keeps you quessing and waiting to start the next book.