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The Coven #1
The Coven Princess
Your blood does not define you.
Harley Torrance's parents were killed in a home invasion when she was three. Adopted by a nice couple, Harley begins to develop strange powers. At fourteen she brews a potion so strong it gains the attention of the Coven King, and changes her world forever.
She's not human, she's a witch.
Now a part of the magical community, Harley must learn to control her powers lest the Darkness already in her blood overcomes her. Can she dampen her lust for power in order to stop the Dark from taking over the Coven and killing everyone in their way?
Harley Torrance's parents were killed in a home invasion when she was three. Adopted by a nice couple, Harley begins to develop strange powers. At fourteen she brews a potion so strong it gains the attention of the Coven King, and changes her world forever.
She's not human, she's a witch.
Now a part of the magical community, Harley must learn to control her powers lest the Darkness already in her blood overcomes her. Can she dampen her lust for power in order to stop the Dark from taking over the Coven and killing everyone in their way?
353 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 28, 2018
58 people are currently reading
261 people want to read
About the author
Lily Luchesi
77 books369 followersLily Luchesi is the USA Today bestselling and award-winning author of the Paranormal Detectives Series, published by Vamptasy Publishing. She also has short stories included in multiple bestselling anthologies, and a successful dark erotica retelling of Dracula.
She also compiled and edited the bestselling anthology Damsels of Distress, which focuses on strong female characters in horror and paranormal fiction.
She was born in Chicago, Illinois, and now resides in Los Angeles, California. Ever since she was a toddler her mother noticed her tendency for being interested in all things "dark". At two she became infatuated with vampires and ghosts, and that infatuation turned into a lifestyle. She is also an out member of the LGBT+ community. When she's not writing, she's going to rock concerts, getting tattooed, watching the CW, or reading manga. And drinking copious amounts of coffee.
2017 Best Horror Author from Reality Bites Magazine
2016 1st Place Best Paranormal Author at the Virtual Fantasy Con Awards
2016 2nd Place Best Dark/Horror Author at the Virtual Fantasy Con Awards
2015 3rd Place Best Male Villain (Vincent from Stake-Out) at the DNSB Reader's Choice Awards and the SNSBAH Awards
She also compiled and edited the bestselling anthology Damsels of Distress, which focuses on strong female characters in horror and paranormal fiction.
She was born in Chicago, Illinois, and now resides in Los Angeles, California. Ever since she was a toddler her mother noticed her tendency for being interested in all things "dark". At two she became infatuated with vampires and ghosts, and that infatuation turned into a lifestyle. She is also an out member of the LGBT+ community. When she's not writing, she's going to rock concerts, getting tattooed, watching the CW, or reading manga. And drinking copious amounts of coffee.
2017 Best Horror Author from Reality Bites Magazine
2016 1st Place Best Paranormal Author at the Virtual Fantasy Con Awards
2016 2nd Place Best Dark/Horror Author at the Virtual Fantasy Con Awards
2015 3rd Place Best Male Villain (Vincent from Stake-Out) at the DNSB Reader's Choice Awards and the SNSBAH Awards
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
September 24, 2022
Let me start by saying that I received a copy of the eBook from the Author for an honest review.
When I saw this book I thought the synopsis sounded awesome and after reading the first chapter I decided to purchase a physical copy because I read ebooks very slowly. I only explain this because if you go look on Amazon (where I was asked to leave my review) its a verified purchase even though I was gifted a copy.
Writing this review took me a while because I want to be honest and respectful to the author. I also had trouble thinking of how to put everything down so a part of this will read as a list. This is not my normal format, but it’s what works in this instance.
The one positive thing that I can say about this book is that the writing was good. However, the content of the story I did not like. I did not like this book for the same reason others seemed to love it. I DNF’d the book at page 82. This story is strongly influenced by Harry Potter and I found the more I looked back at what I read I realized there were more and more similarities that bothered me. By the time I put this book down I felt like I was reading the highlights of the first two Harry Potter movies. I understand wanting your story to be in the same realm as something like Harry Potter, but there is a line and for me, and on this instance it was crossed. Here is a small list of all of the main points that I was writing down while I was reading, and remember I stopped at page 82.
- Harley’s parents are killed in a home invasion.
- Harley is adopted by non-magical parents that fear her abilities.
- Harley is whisked away to a magical school.
- Once in the magical community, the family she is staying with has multiple kids all with strawberry blond hair. Older brothers that have already moved out are talked about. There is also a set of twins.
- There are dueling lessons because of the danger.
- There is even a Lockheartish teacher. Who is just as useless during the dueling lessons.
- Those that are dying are nonmagical born. And no one knows who or why. They suspect this dark group that formed…you see where I am going.
This is all in the first 80 pages!
I am not saying it’s a bad book. I wanted to know why it had such a high rating on Goodreads so I read down through some of the reviews. What I found is that those that loved it, loved it for its similarities. So I’m not saying not to read it but it was not meant for me. I have too much love for the world of Harry Potter and for me there is just too much borrowed.
When I saw this book I thought the synopsis sounded awesome and after reading the first chapter I decided to purchase a physical copy because I read ebooks very slowly. I only explain this because if you go look on Amazon (where I was asked to leave my review) its a verified purchase even though I was gifted a copy.
Writing this review took me a while because I want to be honest and respectful to the author. I also had trouble thinking of how to put everything down so a part of this will read as a list. This is not my normal format, but it’s what works in this instance.
The one positive thing that I can say about this book is that the writing was good. However, the content of the story I did not like. I did not like this book for the same reason others seemed to love it. I DNF’d the book at page 82. This story is strongly influenced by Harry Potter and I found the more I looked back at what I read I realized there were more and more similarities that bothered me. By the time I put this book down I felt like I was reading the highlights of the first two Harry Potter movies. I understand wanting your story to be in the same realm as something like Harry Potter, but there is a line and for me, and on this instance it was crossed. Here is a small list of all of the main points that I was writing down while I was reading, and remember I stopped at page 82.
- Harley’s parents are killed in a home invasion.
- Harley is adopted by non-magical parents that fear her abilities.
- Harley is whisked away to a magical school.
- Once in the magical community, the family she is staying with has multiple kids all with strawberry blond hair. Older brothers that have already moved out are talked about. There is also a set of twins.
- There are dueling lessons because of the danger.
- There is even a Lockheartish teacher. Who is just as useless during the dueling lessons.
- Those that are dying are nonmagical born. And no one knows who or why. They suspect this dark group that formed…you see where I am going.
This is all in the first 80 pages!
I am not saying it’s a bad book. I wanted to know why it had such a high rating on Goodreads so I read down through some of the reviews. What I found is that those that loved it, loved it for its similarities. So I’m not saying not to read it but it was not meant for me. I have too much love for the world of Harry Potter and for me there is just too much borrowed.
January 31, 2018
If you love Harry Potter and everything magical than this is the book for you. You have some amazing characters that you will love and hate with so much emotion that you find yourself laughing and crying at the same time. I love a good witch story and this one filled a need that I desperately wanted. All the characters were flawed and there was not a single perfect one. They all grew and changed as time went on. The writing was well done and it flowed naturally.
My favorite character was Harley. She was the most unique and travelled the longest self journey. I found her to be withdrawn and cold at first but then as she matured and felt comfortable she became a character that I will hold in my heart forever. She is sassy and refuses to change her personality to fit the norm. She is strong and stubborn always trying to fight an inner demon. She embraces her lineage. It was really quite powerful.
My favorite moments from the book included all the potion making. It was addicting. I loved learning about the different elements. I could have spent the whole time learning more about it. My second favorite moment was when Harley had to ride a Pege. It was hilarious and exhilarating.
Overall, I will be recommending this book to my magical loving YA friends.
My favorite character was Harley. She was the most unique and travelled the longest self journey. I found her to be withdrawn and cold at first but then as she matured and felt comfortable she became a character that I will hold in my heart forever. She is sassy and refuses to change her personality to fit the norm. She is strong and stubborn always trying to fight an inner demon. She embraces her lineage. It was really quite powerful.
My favorite moments from the book included all the potion making. It was addicting. I loved learning about the different elements. I could have spent the whole time learning more about it. My second favorite moment was when Harley had to ride a Pege. It was hilarious and exhilarating.
Overall, I will be recommending this book to my magical loving YA friends.
February 13, 2018
The Coven Princess is the author’s first foray into the YA genre. While it felt to me that the author leaned heavily on the world and characters of Harry Potter to learn the genre, there is enough uniqueness to the story to not feel like an outright retelling of that series. Harley is a good character who develops as expected. It took me quite a while to understand the time lapses and make sense of all the fast (but not really fast) changes. My favorite character is Sinclair, he was very well developed and had the best story arc of all the characters. I was intrigued and captivated with him. I received an early copy of this book from the author and this review is my honest opinion. ***Review has been done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official. For more information regarding our reviews please visit our Fan Site: www.facebook.com/NerdGirl.NG***
March 5, 2018
5 Cranky Stars
After the death of her parents at the age of 3, Harley Torrance was adopted by a very supportive couple. As she grows, she discovers that she has magical powers. By the time she's fourteen years old, she's developed a personality of her own and has become very strong magically. This is the age when she brews a potion so strong (especially for being self taught) that it grabs the attention of the Coven King.
This brings her on a journey of self discovery where she learns of her lineage and everything else that she had been being protected from. She finds out that she was being hidden by a spell, and when that spell dissipates she is thrown into a world of wonder that she never knew existed. With everything out in the open, the darkness inside her is just begging to come out... Can she keep it under wraps and protect the coven?
This was a great read with a lot of Harry Potter references. The first YA novel from this author, she perfectly crossed genres with ease. The whole book, even as an adult reading it, sent me on an emotional roller coaster ride. From the way Harley is bullied at school, to the way she looks forward to her new life, and then the way she fights her inner demons makes the book hard to put down. The characters are complex and so well described so that you have an easy decision as to which ones you love and which ones you hate. Although it's about a common theme, it's unique enough that it sparks interest from page to page. The story itself flows perfectly, and there are no real typos or other grammatical errors to really speak of. I'm looking forward to reading additional books in this series.
After the death of her parents at the age of 3, Harley Torrance was adopted by a very supportive couple. As she grows, she discovers that she has magical powers. By the time she's fourteen years old, she's developed a personality of her own and has become very strong magically. This is the age when she brews a potion so strong (especially for being self taught) that it grabs the attention of the Coven King.
This brings her on a journey of self discovery where she learns of her lineage and everything else that she had been being protected from. She finds out that she was being hidden by a spell, and when that spell dissipates she is thrown into a world of wonder that she never knew existed. With everything out in the open, the darkness inside her is just begging to come out... Can she keep it under wraps and protect the coven?
This was a great read with a lot of Harry Potter references. The first YA novel from this author, she perfectly crossed genres with ease. The whole book, even as an adult reading it, sent me on an emotional roller coaster ride. From the way Harley is bullied at school, to the way she looks forward to her new life, and then the way she fights her inner demons makes the book hard to put down. The characters are complex and so well described so that you have an easy decision as to which ones you love and which ones you hate. Although it's about a common theme, it's unique enough that it sparks interest from page to page. The story itself flows perfectly, and there are no real typos or other grammatical errors to really speak of. I'm looking forward to reading additional books in this series.
March 8, 2018
Rating: 4.5
As avid fans of Luchesi's adult works, we were ecstatic to find that she was entering the world of YA, our favorite genre! There was no doubt in our minds that The Coven Princess would be yet another amazing work with a kickass female and complex, real characters. And oh did this book deliver! We loved how the beginning possessed the classic "You're a wizard, Harry!" moment. (However, Harley's a girl and a witch, but you get what we mean!). And we were like YAAASSSS! Give us those Harry Potter vibes, please!!!!!!!!!!!! What we really loved, though, was how this book was original but at the same time gave nostalgic vibes for other series. There was a low-key Harry Potter undertone, and the beginning made us reminisce about The School for Good and Evil for some reason, which we were all for. At the same time, though, this book was original with Luchesi's voice shining through. It never ceases to amaze us what Luchesi can churn onto the page, gracing us with new, wonderful, and emotional stories each time.
We had no idea that this took place in the same world as her adult Paranormal Detective series (cue the squeals), which will make the story even more meaningful for returning readers and will be an excellent segue for young adults if they want to take an even bigger bite out of Luchesi's earlier works (which we totally recommend!). It was like finding Easter eggs on Sunday.
The Coven Princess explores the story of fighting for what you believe in and for others, which was done beautifully and with thought-provoking care. It elaborates on choosing your own path due to your history and other's expectations, following Harley as she was deciding how to own who she was. We believe these topics to be extremely important, especially for young adults. Thus, the audience is sure to connect with Harley and follow this exciting, fast-paced story eagerly.
As avid fans of Luchesi's adult works, we were ecstatic to find that she was entering the world of YA, our favorite genre! There was no doubt in our minds that The Coven Princess would be yet another amazing work with a kickass female and complex, real characters. And oh did this book deliver! We loved how the beginning possessed the classic "You're a wizard, Harry!" moment. (However, Harley's a girl and a witch, but you get what we mean!). And we were like YAAASSSS! Give us those Harry Potter vibes, please!!!!!!!!!!!! What we really loved, though, was how this book was original but at the same time gave nostalgic vibes for other series. There was a low-key Harry Potter undertone, and the beginning made us reminisce about The School for Good and Evil for some reason, which we were all for. At the same time, though, this book was original with Luchesi's voice shining through. It never ceases to amaze us what Luchesi can churn onto the page, gracing us with new, wonderful, and emotional stories each time.
We had no idea that this took place in the same world as her adult Paranormal Detective series (cue the squeals), which will make the story even more meaningful for returning readers and will be an excellent segue for young adults if they want to take an even bigger bite out of Luchesi's earlier works (which we totally recommend!). It was like finding Easter eggs on Sunday.
The Coven Princess explores the story of fighting for what you believe in and for others, which was done beautifully and with thought-provoking care. It elaborates on choosing your own path due to your history and other's expectations, following Harley as she was deciding how to own who she was. We believe these topics to be extremely important, especially for young adults. Thus, the audience is sure to connect with Harley and follow this exciting, fast-paced story eagerly.
March 5, 2018
Magic, wizards, witches, werewolves, and vampires oh my.......
Step into a story that weaves a magical place that you will get lost in. Each chapter holds twists and turns that will keep you reading. The characters of this book are good, bad and all that in between.
The main character Harley is a powerful witch, she just doesn't know if until later in life. When she does find out her life is drastically changed. The best thing about Harley is she is strong, light, dark, a just a girl trying to find her place in a new world. Most of the story she is trying to deal with her magic but there are times in this book that are tough for her. I really felt for Harley. You will feel all of her emotions right next to her.
Through out this book you will learn good and evil magic. Ms. Luchesi writes a book that makes you feel like you have been dropped right into the middle of the scene. I felt like I was in the castle, learning potions, magic, and the paranormal creatures of the world. There was plenty of angst and action to keep you guessing.
This was a magical read that will take you on a wild ride.
Step into a story that weaves a magical place that you will get lost in. Each chapter holds twists and turns that will keep you reading. The characters of this book are good, bad and all that in between.
The main character Harley is a powerful witch, she just doesn't know if until later in life. When she does find out her life is drastically changed. The best thing about Harley is she is strong, light, dark, a just a girl trying to find her place in a new world. Most of the story she is trying to deal with her magic but there are times in this book that are tough for her. I really felt for Harley. You will feel all of her emotions right next to her.
Through out this book you will learn good and evil magic. Ms. Luchesi writes a book that makes you feel like you have been dropped right into the middle of the scene. I felt like I was in the castle, learning potions, magic, and the paranormal creatures of the world. There was plenty of angst and action to keep you guessing.
This was a magical read that will take you on a wild ride.
January 23, 2018
OMG !! You would never know that this is a first YA book from this author. So impressed with how easily she transitioned into this genre.
This magical story is about a young witch who has lost her mother and father and is put into the foster care system. Adopted by human parents, Harley's life growing up is not an easy one. Constantly bullied for her looks and strange behavior, Harley keeps to herself and fights the urge to lash out at her tormentors. After being pushed to far at school, Harley uses a potion on one of her bullies and ends up being expelled. When a stranger appears at her door one day and informs her of a place where witches are living and learning, Harley sets out to learn her heritage and finds the life she was always meant to have. Secrets, danger, love and loss, Harley's life will never be quite the same.
This magical story is about a young witch who has lost her mother and father and is put into the foster care system. Adopted by human parents, Harley's life growing up is not an easy one. Constantly bullied for her looks and strange behavior, Harley keeps to herself and fights the urge to lash out at her tormentors. After being pushed to far at school, Harley uses a potion on one of her bullies and ends up being expelled. When a stranger appears at her door one day and informs her of a place where witches are living and learning, Harley sets out to learn her heritage and finds the life she was always meant to have. Secrets, danger, love and loss, Harley's life will never be quite the same.
February 14, 2018
The Coven Princess is Lily Luchesi’s first venture into the YA genre, and she has done it with style.
Harley was orphaned and adopted by humans at a young age. She’s a witch, but doesn’t know it until she’s visited by an odd gentleman after being expelled from school.
We join Harley, as she joins the witch community where she learns about magic and her heritage and makes new friends along the way.
The journey of self-discovery the Haley undertakes was an emotional rollercoaster ride for both Harley and myself.
The characters were all multi-dimensional, interesting and flawed and the storyline was well-thought out and exciting, keeping me on the edge of my seat.
Although The Coven Princess is loosely connected to Lily’s amazing Paranormal Detective books, you don’t have to know anything about the series to enjoy this YA read.
Harley was orphaned and adopted by humans at a young age. She’s a witch, but doesn’t know it until she’s visited by an odd gentleman after being expelled from school.
We join Harley, as she joins the witch community where she learns about magic and her heritage and makes new friends along the way.
The journey of self-discovery the Haley undertakes was an emotional rollercoaster ride for both Harley and myself.
The characters were all multi-dimensional, interesting and flawed and the storyline was well-thought out and exciting, keeping me on the edge of my seat.
Although The Coven Princess is loosely connected to Lily’s amazing Paranormal Detective books, you don’t have to know anything about the series to enjoy this YA read.
March 7, 2018
I always know that I am getting a spectacularly written book with the most amazing and relatable characters when I pick up any of Lily's books. So it came as no surprise, when I heard she was writing her debut novel in the YA genre, that this one was just as goo if not even better than anything else I have ever read by her. The Coven Princess is an exciting, edge of your seat kind of read that will not have you feeling bored for a single moment. I am looking forward to reading more in this new spin-off series. Well done, Lily! I very highly recommend purchasing and reading this book!
March 7, 2018
Lily Luchesi's "The Coven Princess" is the first tale in the new Coven series. This is a great YA read. First thing I've read in a while that had a Harry Potteresque vibe. The characters are amazing and really well developed. I was swept right into this magical community. I can't wait to read #2!
March 12, 2018
Stars: 4.5/5
My collaborative review with B can be seen here:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
If you enjoyed the review, you can find more here: http://knightingalereviews.blogspot.c...
My collaborative review with B can be seen here:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
If you enjoyed the review, you can find more here: http://knightingalereviews.blogspot.c...
October 1, 2018
I’m beyond blown away
Lily,
Your gift is unlike any other. The research you had to have done is mind boggling. Your gift is unbelievable and your written word moved me throughout the manuscript. I literally finished it with tears streaming down my face.
This was without a doubt one if your best books yet. I am doing my best to stand, and applaud you with words and hope you can see how absolutely proud of you I am.
I recommend this book to everyone, it’s one of the best I’ve read since embarking upon the Harry Potter series.
Lily,
Your gift is unlike any other. The research you had to have done is mind boggling. Your gift is unbelievable and your written word moved me throughout the manuscript. I literally finished it with tears streaming down my face.
This was without a doubt one if your best books yet. I am doing my best to stand, and applaud you with words and hope you can see how absolutely proud of you I am.
I recommend this book to everyone, it’s one of the best I’ve read since embarking upon the Harry Potter series.
March 13, 2018
This is a great YA book. If you like magical books then this book is for you. This book is along the lines of the Harry Potter books but is different in a lot of ways. I really enjoy Luchesi's wrtiting and she did not disappoint with this book. For this to be the first YA book by this author I am very impressed
March 15, 2018
OMG!!!
Wow can’t believe what I just read. Harley defeated a black magic wizard. Thought her father was dead but she healed him and omg you just need to read. The author done an excellent job on this book .
Wow can’t believe what I just read. Harley defeated a black magic wizard. Thought her father was dead but she healed him and omg you just need to read. The author done an excellent job on this book .
February 6, 2018
Lily Luchesi entered the YA genre with a bang!!! This spin-off of her Paranormal Detective Series world was heart touching, thrilling, and fantastical. She introduced a new series of characters whom I have fallen in love with, namely the heroine, Harley, Salem, and James. These characters were so different, but each was developed in such detail that they feel like family. I hope Lily Luchesi continues this branch off and sends us on more adventures with this rag-tag group of magical beings.
April 14, 2019
While I just might have every book Lily's written, because I'm a book whoreder, The Coven Princess is the first I've ever read of hers. And let me tell you that I love it so hard!! The story line was epic!! The plot twists, as well as the suspense, darkness of the characters and even the Lightness of them, too, were epic!! The characters themselves were well written and I must say this author writes to my very liking, it was in the way the story was conveyed. The writing style, choice of words. I was so on the edge, just eager to flip to the next page. There was a lot of despair but a lot of hope that went hand-in-hand with the story. I love it!! I'm excited to see where the author goes with this series!!
May 8, 2019
I liked the lead character, the story reminded me a little of Harry Potter, which isn't a bad thing. I loved the magic and this world that the author has created. I would read more books in the series.
November 23, 2018
I can't praise this book enough - amazing!
If you enjoyed reading or watching Harry Potter, then you'll love this book. Although it's not the same, and even makes spoofs, saying, "This isn't Hogwarts," it has a a lot of similarities in the beginning--only. After the end of part two, things take a different turn. The characters are so much fun, and you can see everything play out in your mind as if watching a movie, only much better.
I truly enjoyed this book, and I'm ecstatic to see there's a sequel. I'll be purchasing it after I leave my review.
I was completely mesmerized by this well-written tale, staying up all night, devouring every word. It will pull at your heart strings, make you fighting mad, and you'll want to fight alongside the characters in battle. I truly loved every word.
Well deserved five stars!
If you enjoyed reading or watching Harry Potter, then you'll love this book. Although it's not the same, and even makes spoofs, saying, "This isn't Hogwarts," it has a a lot of similarities in the beginning--only. After the end of part two, things take a different turn. The characters are so much fun, and you can see everything play out in your mind as if watching a movie, only much better.
I truly enjoyed this book, and I'm ecstatic to see there's a sequel. I'll be purchasing it after I leave my review.
I was completely mesmerized by this well-written tale, staying up all night, devouring every word. It will pull at your heart strings, make you fighting mad, and you'll want to fight alongside the characters in battle. I truly loved every word.
Well deserved five stars!
December 30, 2018
Good YA Story
If you like Harry Potter you will like this story, sort of similar but then not because has it's own unique plots and characters. If you like witches, magic, twisted plots, well written characters, romance and a good long story then do read this. Much better then reading short stories that you have to buy several books to finish the adventure. I applaud this author for not doing that.
If you like Harry Potter you will like this story, sort of similar but then not because has it's own unique plots and characters. If you like witches, magic, twisted plots, well written characters, romance and a good long story then do read this. Much better then reading short stories that you have to buy several books to finish the adventure. I applaud this author for not doing that.
July 16, 2018
I received an ecopy of The Coven Princess in return for a review, all opinions and words are my own.
I really enjoyed reading The Coven Princess, it was an interesting, fast paced fantasy story with a lot of interesting characters. From the first line there were a multitude of Harry Potter references, which was great to read too. Though it did remind me that I am really overdue for a reread of that series. I think you could say that The Coven Princess is a book in which a Slytherin (or maybe a SlytherClaw) gets to tell their story. It's a fair bit darker than the early Harry Potters from the outset.
The Coven Princess covers most of the main character, Harley's magical education, there were a few leaps forward in time that were a little confusing, but time travel aside it made for a face paced read that was filled with a number of unique characters. I found myself, like Harley drawn to the Salam Sinclair the potions teacher... I have to say, from the outset I really did like the main character, she was blunt, unapologetic and clever and I love that! It was so refreshing to read about a character who was proud of herself and was unwilling to change to fit in.
With all the Harry Potter references, it was a little difficult not to compare The Coven Princess to that series, but I am going to try, as after all they are written with different audiences in mind. What I did like about The Coven Princess was that other than one issues (which I don't want to mention because of spoilers) the adults of the world, were fairly free with information. There was no great conspiracy to keep the teenagers in the dark, which was actually really refreshing to read.
I also really loved that each chapter had a song at the beginning, it was a really great way to get in to the mood of that chapter. If you are fan of slightly dark fantasy YA, the I would recommend The Coven Princess. Although it does rely on Harry Potter and other YA fantasy tropes, it's unique enough to be a really interesting read and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
I really enjoyed reading The Coven Princess, it was an interesting, fast paced fantasy story with a lot of interesting characters. From the first line there were a multitude of Harry Potter references, which was great to read too. Though it did remind me that I am really overdue for a reread of that series. I think you could say that The Coven Princess is a book in which a Slytherin (or maybe a SlytherClaw) gets to tell their story. It's a fair bit darker than the early Harry Potters from the outset.
The Coven Princess covers most of the main character, Harley's magical education, there were a few leaps forward in time that were a little confusing, but time travel aside it made for a face paced read that was filled with a number of unique characters. I found myself, like Harley drawn to the Salam Sinclair the potions teacher... I have to say, from the outset I really did like the main character, she was blunt, unapologetic and clever and I love that! It was so refreshing to read about a character who was proud of herself and was unwilling to change to fit in.
With all the Harry Potter references, it was a little difficult not to compare The Coven Princess to that series, but I am going to try, as after all they are written with different audiences in mind. What I did like about The Coven Princess was that other than one issues (which I don't want to mention because of spoilers) the adults of the world, were fairly free with information. There was no great conspiracy to keep the teenagers in the dark, which was actually really refreshing to read.
I also really loved that each chapter had a song at the beginning, it was a really great way to get in to the mood of that chapter. If you are fan of slightly dark fantasy YA, the I would recommend The Coven Princess. Although it does rely on Harry Potter and other YA fantasy tropes, it's unique enough to be a really interesting read and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
April 12, 2018
I am now convinced that Lily Luchesi has the Midas Touch.
And now, she has proven it with a magickal grace.
In The Coven Princess, you creative, magickal elements that are present in other novels in the genre, but have nowhere near the pizzazz and flair that Luchesi exhibits in this tome. You get the elements of the changes experienced through teenhood. The desire to establish one's identity in a world rife and riddled with conformity, expectations, and well-meaning adults already having plans set up. You have the rebellion, the love, the learning...all the devil may care attributes that come with adolescence and young adulthood. But these elements are merely a backdrop for the true meat of this meal: an epic battle of Light and Dark that has been going on in the shadows forever, coupled with the shrouded loyalties, shifting paradigms, and the layers and dimensions--not to mention the changeable answers--to the question of what makes a hero.
My favorite character by far is Harley. Luchesi's mastery--her truest, and most overt gift--lay in her ability to convey the balance of light and dark in all beings. The intriguing duality that is always on stellar display in her previous works is present in Harley Torrance, a witch who has always known that she was different from everyone around her. But as I've said before, the best part of Harley lay in Luchesi's mastery of intriguing duality, and the story's underlying truth:
Hero. Villian. Savior. Destroyer.
In the end, all that matters is what YOU choose.
Five stars all the way!
And now, she has proven it with a magickal grace.
In The Coven Princess, you creative, magickal elements that are present in other novels in the genre, but have nowhere near the pizzazz and flair that Luchesi exhibits in this tome. You get the elements of the changes experienced through teenhood. The desire to establish one's identity in a world rife and riddled with conformity, expectations, and well-meaning adults already having plans set up. You have the rebellion, the love, the learning...all the devil may care attributes that come with adolescence and young adulthood. But these elements are merely a backdrop for the true meat of this meal: an epic battle of Light and Dark that has been going on in the shadows forever, coupled with the shrouded loyalties, shifting paradigms, and the layers and dimensions--not to mention the changeable answers--to the question of what makes a hero.
My favorite character by far is Harley. Luchesi's mastery--her truest, and most overt gift--lay in her ability to convey the balance of light and dark in all beings. The intriguing duality that is always on stellar display in her previous works is present in Harley Torrance, a witch who has always known that she was different from everyone around her. But as I've said before, the best part of Harley lay in Luchesi's mastery of intriguing duality, and the story's underlying truth:
Hero. Villian. Savior. Destroyer.
In the end, all that matters is what YOU choose.
Five stars all the way!
December 20, 2018
Surpassed my highest expectations!
By Nyx Blogs on March 7, 2018
Format: Kindle Edition
Luchesi's first YA novel surpasses all of my expectations. I loved how every time a Potter reference came up, witty banter would follow. It's worth noting in here, the Paranormal Investigative Division are a part of this book/series. Impressively, all of the books I've read by Luchesi thus far derived from or linked in some way to the bestselling original series.
Harley was never meant to be and when devastation comes, a spell to hide her is cast. Harley's adoptive parents do their best to raise her right, though they know she's different.
When the hiding spell finally disappears, the King comes to take her back home with people like her. She will finally feel comfortable, loved. Not constantly bullied by ignorant humans.
This story has flow; I easily finished in one night. The author made sure I fell in love with her characters, good and bad. Eh..it's a balance thing.
Waiting with mock patience for another release from this very talented author. This is a 5***** read. Be sure to buy a copy!
By Nyx Blogs on March 7, 2018
Format: Kindle Edition
Luchesi's first YA novel surpasses all of my expectations. I loved how every time a Potter reference came up, witty banter would follow. It's worth noting in here, the Paranormal Investigative Division are a part of this book/series. Impressively, all of the books I've read by Luchesi thus far derived from or linked in some way to the bestselling original series.
Harley was never meant to be and when devastation comes, a spell to hide her is cast. Harley's adoptive parents do their best to raise her right, though they know she's different.
When the hiding spell finally disappears, the King comes to take her back home with people like her. She will finally feel comfortable, loved. Not constantly bullied by ignorant humans.
This story has flow; I easily finished in one night. The author made sure I fell in love with her characters, good and bad. Eh..it's a balance thing.
Waiting with mock patience for another release from this very talented author. This is a 5***** read. Be sure to buy a copy!
November 25, 2018
Your Blood does not define you.
“The boundaries which define Life from Death are at best shadowy and vague. Who shall say where one ends, and where the other begins?” Edgar Allan Poe
What a wild yet amazing ride this story was!! I have been following this author’s work for awhile now and she has surprised me time and again with her fantastic way of storytelling.
The characters were absolutely phenomenal. I loved reading about Harley. She was a very strong character that had the world on her shoulders, literally. There were many times that I wanted to cry for this character when she had no time to stop and cry herself.
The story-line was remarkable! I was completely addicted from beginning to end. So much happened with a few shocking moments that left me dumbfounded, but in a good way. I also loved how Luchesi tied together other stories within this one too. I must add that you don’t have to read her other books to read this one, it’s just the ones who have read her other books know what she is referring to within the story. And that makes her a pure genius and I highly recommend this read.
“The boundaries which define Life from Death are at best shadowy and vague. Who shall say where one ends, and where the other begins?” Edgar Allan Poe
What a wild yet amazing ride this story was!! I have been following this author’s work for awhile now and she has surprised me time and again with her fantastic way of storytelling.
The characters were absolutely phenomenal. I loved reading about Harley. She was a very strong character that had the world on her shoulders, literally. There were many times that I wanted to cry for this character when she had no time to stop and cry herself.
The story-line was remarkable! I was completely addicted from beginning to end. So much happened with a few shocking moments that left me dumbfounded, but in a good way. I also loved how Luchesi tied together other stories within this one too. I must add that you don’t have to read her other books to read this one, it’s just the ones who have read her other books know what she is referring to within the story. And that makes her a pure genius and I highly recommend this read.
July 18, 2018
I liked this book but didn't love it. The cover and description had me dying to read it but it didn't quite live up to those expectations. The cover had me thinking it was going to be this dark, romantic story. It definitely has a younger feeling to it though. Even during the "darker" parts of the story it felt like it was much younger so those moments just didn't translate well to the overall story.
However, it was interesting and had me thinking of the Harry Potter books and how different things could've been with a few different choices. I won't read it again but I do recommend trying it out. Just have lower expectations than I did and you'll probably love it.
*I volunteered to read and honestly review a free Kindle copy of this book*
However, it was interesting and had me thinking of the Harry Potter books and how different things could've been with a few different choices. I won't read it again but I do recommend trying it out. Just have lower expectations than I did and you'll probably love it.
*I volunteered to read and honestly review a free Kindle copy of this book*
September 21, 2022
As has been previously written, this story is a complete ripoff of Harry Potter, with the twist of an unlikeable lead character.
The rest of the characters are one dimensional at best.
Something that I didn’t appreciate was the narrative around Harleys adoptive parents. With zero evidence provided, and through no fault of their own (as written), they are portrayed as uninterested, uncaring, scared, useless parents that are quickly forgotten. If there was meant to be some context to Harleys feelings about her parents, it appears to have ended up on the cutting room floor and not into the pages of the book.
The ready of the characters faired little better, with absolutely no character building. They were just there.
I will certainly not be reading anything further from this author.
The rest of the characters are one dimensional at best.
Something that I didn’t appreciate was the narrative around Harleys adoptive parents. With zero evidence provided, and through no fault of their own (as written), they are portrayed as uninterested, uncaring, scared, useless parents that are quickly forgotten. If there was meant to be some context to Harleys feelings about her parents, it appears to have ended up on the cutting room floor and not into the pages of the book.
The ready of the characters faired little better, with absolutely no character building. They were just there.
I will certainly not be reading anything further from this author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 10, 2018
The book was pretty good, reminded me a lot of Harry Potter. The plot was cool, especially when it came to the main character Harley's bloodline and past. The ending was very well done, lots of action and heart ache. I didn't give this book a 5 star because it had a really slow start, where nothing significant really happened until maybe 30% into the book (and it was a decently long book). Most of the book was also pretty emotionless, as if characters are just going with a script in their speech and never feel anything. The book covers around 3 years of the characters' lives, I think, so a lot of details are skipped over. Overall though, I enjoyed reading the book!
January 9, 2020
Another winner by this author.
I've read several books by this author and never been disappointed. The author kept that streak going with this offering, the first YA effort of hers I've read. I'm looking forward to the sequel.
Although it's YA, it's still adult enough to not be jam-packed with the typical, overdone and repetitive several pages of emotional angst that seems to be more important than the rest of the story to too many YA efforts. It's there, but not enough to overwhelm the main part of the story.
Another solid five star effort by this author.
I've read several books by this author and never been disappointed. The author kept that streak going with this offering, the first YA effort of hers I've read. I'm looking forward to the sequel.
Although it's YA, it's still adult enough to not be jam-packed with the typical, overdone and repetitive several pages of emotional angst that seems to be more important than the rest of the story to too many YA efforts. It's there, but not enough to overwhelm the main part of the story.
Another solid five star effort by this author.
January 3, 2022
I really enjoyed this story from the box set I have. It’s filled with magic and mayhem and I particularly liked Harley, a character who grapples with who she is and her ‘differences’.
The writing style has an easy flow that fits the plot and the intriguing characters. It’s basically about choosing right from wrong, good from evil despite your bloodlines.
Overall, I think this is a great YA tale told very well with plenty of action, thoughts and feelings and sense of place.
Recommended.
The writing style has an easy flow that fits the plot and the intriguing characters. It’s basically about choosing right from wrong, good from evil despite your bloodlines.
Overall, I think this is a great YA tale told very well with plenty of action, thoughts and feelings and sense of place.
Recommended.
June 14, 2018
Outstanding!!!!!
Omg I am so in love with this book. I have been trying to find a book that reminds me of Harry Potter as I loved those stories.
This story was exactly what I was looking for!
Harley is such a kick ass girl! Not afraid to be true to herself even if she was mocked for it! I wish there were 4 more books!
This story is so amazing I do not even know where to start. I loved learning about this magical world and the fight between good and evil.
A must read for sure
Omg I am so in love with this book. I have been trying to find a book that reminds me of Harry Potter as I loved those stories.
This story was exactly what I was looking for!
Harley is such a kick ass girl! Not afraid to be true to herself even if she was mocked for it! I wish there were 4 more books!
This story is so amazing I do not even know where to start. I loved learning about this magical world and the fight between good and evil.
A must read for sure
September 7, 2024
This is a fun book, by an obviously talented writer.
I am interested to read some of her other works.
My overall impression of this book is that it reads much like Harry Potter fan fiction. Very similar plot points, themes etc.
Whereas the HP series takes place over thousands of pages, this book follows the same plot over many fewer pages, leaving some parts feeling rushed or glossed over.
Some characters and plot points are picked up and then barely (or never) mentioned again.
I am interested to read some of her other works.
My overall impression of this book is that it reads much like Harry Potter fan fiction. Very similar plot points, themes etc.
Whereas the HP series takes place over thousands of pages, this book follows the same plot over many fewer pages, leaving some parts feeling rushed or glossed over.
Some characters and plot points are picked up and then barely (or never) mentioned again.
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