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Queen's Ransom: The Golden Bulls of Minos
Jalia hasn't ever played a game she can't win. The Promise of a Queen's Ransom is too much for life-long gambler Jalia to pass up. The untouched planet of Minos is rumored to be so wealthy, one can walk along the beach and pluck diamonds from the sea. According to the contract, all she has to do to win is solve a few puzzles and navigate a labyrinth or two. Simple! But she didn't read the fine print... She isn't competing to win treasure, she's competing to become Queen of Minos. Marriage to the Mandatory. A king who sends men to their deaths by the dozen kills anyone who dares speak against him, and his people live in fear of his wrath. Bound by the contract, Jalia has no choice but to try or die while the challenges grow ever more deadly. Even if she wins, marrying the Monstrous king of Minos may be a fate worse than death.
432 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 25, 2018
256 people are currently reading
876 people want to read
About the author
Isabel Wroth
21 books421 followersSalutations!
I just wanted to let the folks know that I don't very often find myself on the ol' Goodreads site. I have too many social media accounts to keep up with and a new website.
If you have questions about books, updates, or want to share what's on your mind, you're better off hitting me up via email or Facebook. Or visiting my website!
Happy Reviewing,
~Isabel
I just wanted to let the folks know that I don't very often find myself on the ol' Goodreads site. I have too many social media accounts to keep up with and a new website.
If you have questions about books, updates, or want to share what's on your mind, you're better off hitting me up via email or Facebook. Or visiting my website!
Happy Reviewing,
~Isabel
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 221 reviews
May 11, 2020
***second re-read. Just as good as the first time*****
---
5 EPIC stars. Starting 2019 off the right way!
If y'all haven't picked up a Isabel Worth book then you're doing yourself a disservice. Isabel Wroth is a one stop shop for....
-amazing world building
-inventive story telling
-strong af heroines ***including the other female characters in the story***
-captivated and possessive heros
-safest books out in the market
Seriously, can you ask for anything more?!?!
At first I was very dubious of the plot, because it centered around 7-10 (not sure how many because I couldn't keep track of them all) women who are competing to marry the king and become the king of a far of distant planet. So you would expect a manwhore royal asshole who lets all of these horny, spiteful women to fight over him, right? WRONG. He did not show any remote interest in any of the other contestants besides the heroine AND none of the other women contestants showed any romantic interest in him. Isabel Wroth takes the road less traveled with her books. I know im going to get a breathe of fresh air every time I pick up one of her books.
But what really made this book special was the heroine. She was fucking amazing. She was smart, talented, and funny. The whole plot of the book was for this collection of women to compete in 9 labyrinths to prove that they're worthy of being queen and she turns around to the hero and was like...
"Cool, what are YOU going to do for ME to prove that youre worthy." *mic drop*
Safety:
10000000% safe
-No OW/OM after meeting and no ow/om drama
-Hero was not a manwhore and we got zero details on his sexual past. Probably celibate for a long time because no one on his home planet wanted to be his queen. He treated the heroine like gold.
-Heroine was not a virgin and she enjoyed sex!!
-No seperation
-minimal angst
-HEA with wedding (off page) and babies (on page)
---
5 EPIC stars. Starting 2019 off the right way!
If y'all haven't picked up a Isabel Worth book then you're doing yourself a disservice. Isabel Wroth is a one stop shop for....
-amazing world building
-inventive story telling
-strong af heroines ***including the other female characters in the story***
-captivated and possessive heros
-safest books out in the market
Seriously, can you ask for anything more?!?!
At first I was very dubious of the plot, because it centered around 7-10 (not sure how many because I couldn't keep track of them all) women who are competing to marry the king and become the king of a far of distant planet. So you would expect a manwhore royal asshole who lets all of these horny, spiteful women to fight over him, right? WRONG. He did not show any remote interest in any of the other contestants besides the heroine AND none of the other women contestants showed any romantic interest in him. Isabel Wroth takes the road less traveled with her books. I know im going to get a breathe of fresh air every time I pick up one of her books.
But what really made this book special was the heroine. She was fucking amazing. She was smart, talented, and funny. The whole plot of the book was for this collection of women to compete in 9 labyrinths to prove that they're worthy of being queen and she turns around to the hero and was like...
"Cool, what are YOU going to do for ME to prove that youre worthy." *mic drop*
Safety:
10000000% safe
-No OW/OM after meeting and no ow/om drama
-Hero was not a manwhore and we got zero details on his sexual past. Probably celibate for a long time because no one on his home planet wanted to be his queen. He treated the heroine like gold.
-Heroine was not a virgin and she enjoyed sex!!
-No seperation
-minimal angst
-HEA with wedding (off page) and babies (on page)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 27, 2019
This review was originally posted at Books Of My Heart
Queen’s Ransom is a standalone Romantasy (Romance + Fantasy) novel set on a very interesting premise. A competition against other women to win the Queen’s Ransom, a prize that will set Jalia up for life, in the lap of luxury. But Jalia didn’t read the fine print and if she wins the contest, she also wins a marriage she didn’t bargain for to the King of Minos. Now Jalia has to solve Nine Labyrinths, that are deadly on their own, but some of the other contestants are also out to kill her since she has seemed to capture the attention of the Mighty and Deadly King. It is a little like the Bachelor meets Survivor except Dhega doesn’t go around kissing all the would-be Queens and if you are voted off the Planet most likely you are dead.
╰⊰✿ This book has a lot of things going for it. ✿⊱╮
I like the premise for sure and the culture on the planet of Minos. Their history goes back thousands of years when the former masters of that planet bred them as slaves and made them run the labyrinths for entertainment and to cull the strongest, until the slaves rose up against the masters and took control of the planet.
I liked both the main characters Jalia and Dhega. They seem pretty well suited to each other and you could feel the attraction between them from very early on, even if there were other women in the competition. Jalia brings a different view to Dhega and is able to show him some ways to be strong and compassionate all at the same time. She proves to have a strategic mind, time and time again that will be an asset to Dhega ‘IF’ she become his Queen.
I liked that the king was not a manwhore. I’m leary sometimes of a set up like this with multiple women vying for one man, but it was clear who held Dhega’s interest in a romantic sense and that he would prefer that she win.
I liked the overall plot arc, especially the twist at the end and the side characters that were on Jalia’s side as they added quite a bit to the story. I especially liked the assassin turned bodyguard, Tom, and really wanted to know more about his character in general.
╰⊰✿ A few things that could have been better ✿⊱╮
Don’t get me wrong; I really enjoyed this but some of the other contestants were a bit one dimensional as the competition goes. I’m not even sure how many women were there to compete for the Queen’s Ransom it seemed like seven or eight but we really only spend page time on three others.
Jalia, I liked most of the time but some her animosity with one other contestant seemed slightly mean. I almost felt bad for the Princess from a species that poops 3x as much as it eats. That is an unfortunate species trait but some of the name calling and jokes made just seem a bit speciest and even cruel. Sure she wasn’t a likeable character but she was often referred to as ‘the shitter’ and I really thought it made Jalia seem a bit cruel at times.
╰⊰✿ Something I really wanted ✿⊱╮
This seems to be a standalone book but I really wish it wasn’t. Honestly there isn’t enough romantasy out there for me and I would have loved to see another book with Dhega and Jalia or a few of the side characters as they also find love and bring Minos into the Universal Fold updating their tech while still maintaining the beauty of their planet and protecting their culture. There is a complete story to win the Labyrinths and then there is a slightly rushed story with Jalia and her family and then. I would have loved the next book for this series to be about Jalia’s sister and Dhega’s brother but that was taken care of in a few chapters in this book as well. Then there is the revelation at the end and that seemed like a story all unto itself. So the take away is that even though this is a complete book I really wanted more books in this world. I really hope Isabel Wroth decides to revisit it in the future.
Narration:
This is my first book performed by Marnye Young and she did a good job. She was able to make most of the characters come to life and did well with both the male and female voices. A couple characters sounded similar but overall, I enjoyed her performance. I listened to this at my normal 1.5x speed.
This book was given to me by Tantor Audio for review. This is no way affects my rating or review
Queen’s Ransom is a standalone Romantasy (Romance + Fantasy) novel set on a very interesting premise. A competition against other women to win the Queen’s Ransom, a prize that will set Jalia up for life, in the lap of luxury. But Jalia didn’t read the fine print and if she wins the contest, she also wins a marriage she didn’t bargain for to the King of Minos. Now Jalia has to solve Nine Labyrinths, that are deadly on their own, but some of the other contestants are also out to kill her since she has seemed to capture the attention of the Mighty and Deadly King. It is a little like the Bachelor meets Survivor except Dhega doesn’t go around kissing all the would-be Queens and if you are voted off the Planet most likely you are dead.
╰⊰✿ This book has a lot of things going for it. ✿⊱╮
I like the premise for sure and the culture on the planet of Minos. Their history goes back thousands of years when the former masters of that planet bred them as slaves and made them run the labyrinths for entertainment and to cull the strongest, until the slaves rose up against the masters and took control of the planet.
I liked both the main characters Jalia and Dhega. They seem pretty well suited to each other and you could feel the attraction between them from very early on, even if there were other women in the competition. Jalia brings a different view to Dhega and is able to show him some ways to be strong and compassionate all at the same time. She proves to have a strategic mind, time and time again that will be an asset to Dhega ‘IF’ she become his Queen.
“While I’m here risking my life to prove myself worthy to be yours, you face no task or challenge to prove you’re worthy to be mine.”
I liked that the king was not a manwhore. I’m leary sometimes of a set up like this with multiple women vying for one man, but it was clear who held Dhega’s interest in a romantic sense and that he would prefer that she win.
I liked the overall plot arc, especially the twist at the end and the side characters that were on Jalia’s side as they added quite a bit to the story. I especially liked the assassin turned bodyguard, Tom, and really wanted to know more about his character in general.
╰⊰✿ A few things that could have been better ✿⊱╮
Don’t get me wrong; I really enjoyed this but some of the other contestants were a bit one dimensional as the competition goes. I’m not even sure how many women were there to compete for the Queen’s Ransom it seemed like seven or eight but we really only spend page time on three others.
Jalia, I liked most of the time but some her animosity with one other contestant seemed slightly mean. I almost felt bad for the Princess from a species that poops 3x as much as it eats. That is an unfortunate species trait but some of the name calling and jokes made just seem a bit speciest and even cruel. Sure she wasn’t a likeable character but she was often referred to as ‘the shitter’ and I really thought it made Jalia seem a bit cruel at times.
╰⊰✿ Something I really wanted ✿⊱╮
This seems to be a standalone book but I really wish it wasn’t. Honestly there isn’t enough romantasy out there for me and I would have loved to see another book with Dhega and Jalia or a few of the side characters as they also find love and bring Minos into the Universal Fold updating their tech while still maintaining the beauty of their planet and protecting their culture. There is a complete story to win the Labyrinths and then there is a slightly rushed story with Jalia and her family and then. I would have loved the next book for this series to be about Jalia’s sister and Dhega’s brother but that was taken care of in a few chapters in this book as well. Then there is the revelation at the end and that seemed like a story all unto itself. So the take away is that even though this is a complete book I really wanted more books in this world. I really hope Isabel Wroth decides to revisit it in the future.
Narration:
This is my first book performed by Marnye Young and she did a good job. She was able to make most of the characters come to life and did well with both the male and female voices. A couple characters sounded similar but overall, I enjoyed her performance. I listened to this at my normal 1.5x speed.
This book was given to me by Tantor Audio for review. This is no way affects my rating or review
June 1, 2020
New author for me and though this wasn’t perfect I did enjoy it a lot.
In fact, it was my sheer fascination with the unfolding imaginative story and the fabulous world-building that made what I did have slight issues with fade into the background.
I will definitely pick up other books by this author in the future.
So this one was so unique and I adore how the mythology here has been interwoven within the sci-fi.
This actually gave me a mythical, sci-fi, final fantasy with a touch of Sinbad vibe.
It was really unusual and unique.
Our main girl here is Jalia a human who is a bit of a free-spirited wandering space-nomad.
She loves puzzles and conundrums and always wins so what better prize than the vast treasure offered on Mino to the victor of a unique competition.
Only Jalia didn’t read the small-print and actually finds herself competing along with five others to prove herself worthy of marriage to the king of Mino himself.
Mino is a world of might, here the worthy take and keep control through there own blood, sweat and wits.
The Minoans are a bull-like species with horns and herds and deadly labyrinths.
They are also not as technically advanced as other planets still using the old ways to heal, fight and travel.
King Dhega is coldly brutal and rules with an iron fist or horns even.
He is willing to do whatever is necessary to keep order among his people who definitely fear his legendary displeasure.
He is instantly fascinated by the snarky little human and her courage and ideals slowly start to affect him for the better, tempering his harsher persona at least in regard to her.
So this was slow-burn and very intriguing with fantastical world-building.
It also had a vein of humour running through it.
It’s quite a lengthy read and the first half of this I enjoyed the most.
The second half well I felt that the story here had already concluded to my satisfaction between Jalia and Dhega and this was really just extra filler.
I still enjoyed it but it did feel out of place slightly like it was two books in one.
There were also a couple of things that were not filled into my satisfaction like Jalia’s brother Jared And his serving time on a UC prison planet.
There wasn’t much explanation regarding this at least to satisfy my curiosity regarding his actual consequences and then there’s Jalia's sister Jade.
I felt her inclusion in this with Nivir was not really needed and was more of an unnecessary side-story.
At first, I thought they were being set up for a future book then realised that wasn’t the case, it just seemed odd and out of place.
Finally, that ending with Angel-eyes and Tom didn’t seem organic to the story and came completely out of left field.
There was literally no trail or signs leading to this particular reveal.
Despite the above, I still recommend this highly and I would definitely love to read more from this world in the future.
It was incredibly detailed and set in a truly fascinating world that I appreciated a lot.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
September 11, 2019
Oh, I'm so glad I've read this book!!!!
Dhega and Jalia are so cute together!!! Dhega should have been a monster, but he was so cute with Jalia!
The story is very interesting, the labyrinths also, the world of Minos too!
The action is nicely interspaced with descriptions of Minos and fun dialogue mingles nicely with both Dhega's and Jalia's intelligent considerations.
The very interesting things here is that nobody acts in a stupid way! They may have come misconceptions, but they're intelligent enough to be able to change thier minds when things are presented differently! I appreciated that very much!
The seondary characters are nicely done too and each of them has their spot in the story!
I also appreciated that it can be read as a standalone as everything gets solved nicely at the end!
Dhega and Jalia are so cute together!!! Dhega should have been a monster, but he was so cute with Jalia!
The story is very interesting, the labyrinths also, the world of Minos too!
The action is nicely interspaced with descriptions of Minos and fun dialogue mingles nicely with both Dhega's and Jalia's intelligent considerations.
The very interesting things here is that nobody acts in a stupid way! They may have come misconceptions, but they're intelligent enough to be able to change thier minds when things are presented differently! I appreciated that very much!
The seondary characters are nicely done too and each of them has their spot in the story!
I also appreciated that it can be read as a standalone as everything gets solved nicely at the end!
January 30, 2019
The premise of this book is very interesting. Jalia (h) has to survive nine deadly labyrinths to prove she is capable and strong enough to be queen. She is strong and determined.
"While I'm here risking my life to prove myself worthy to be yours, you face no task or challenge to prove you're worthy to be mine".
I love their world. Dhega(H) and Jalia complement each other. They balance each other out. This may sound greedy but I would love to read more about their world. I want them to have another book as main characters. A glimpse of their future.
"While I'm here risking my life to prove myself worthy to be yours, you face no task or challenge to prove you're worthy to be mine".
I love their world. Dhega(H) and Jalia complement each other. They balance each other out. This may sound greedy but I would love to read more about their world. I want them to have another book as main characters. A glimpse of their future.
December 3, 2019
This was a rather interesting read. I found it realistic, not the trial part but the part with Jalia and her family. I did enjoy the trials as well and liked her resourcefulness. The ending wasn't bad either, often times after reading a book I find myself curious about how members of families that feature in certain books fare without necessarily wanting to read their books. I enjoyed seeing how things were resolved.
I had been hesitant since I added this book to my tbr so I'm surprised to say it was that enjoyable that I might read it again in the future.
I had been hesitant since I added this book to my tbr so I'm surprised to say it was that enjoyable that I might read it again in the future.
February 16, 2019
This not normally my cup if tea but for some reason or another it caught my attention. This book is spellbinding and intriguing.
The storyline is unique and pulls you in immediately. There is so much depth that you will be swept up in the whirlwind. I quite enjoyed all the characters and the dynamics. This is not a book that you be will be able to breeze through in a couple of hours so when you do pick it up get prepped to have no interruptions. Theres a well of information and tons of characters to process and fall in love with.
The storyline is unique and pulls you in immediately. There is so much depth that you will be swept up in the whirlwind. I quite enjoyed all the characters and the dynamics. This is not a book that you be will be able to breeze through in a couple of hours so when you do pick it up get prepped to have no interruptions. Theres a well of information and tons of characters to process and fall in love with.
January 15, 2019
I didn't love that ending. The last 3 chapters were about the side characters and I didn't care about them! I wanted more on the MCs!!!
The first half of the book was exciting as Jalia competes with other princesses for the "Queen's Ransom". It's a slow burn romance but throughout the book, you never doubt that Dhega is completely over the moon for Jalia and no one else.
The world building was ok. I was overwhelmed by all the places they visit and even now, I cannot describe what the hero looks like. He has horns and a pelt? Dunno.
The last third of the book was interesting in that it showed how the ruling King and newly appointed queen were implementing new technology on their world. However, I found myself doubting what made Jalia so special. Then her awful family became involved and I don't think we're given enough information or time to forgive what we knew about them. After a while of dealing with them, I just a didn't care.
I also didn't care the Jade + Nivir side story. Other than to show how incredibly beautiful and loving Jalia and Dhega were in comparison, I could've done without that rushed story.
In the end, I preferred Sarazen's Claim to this book. I would recommend both if you like space romance, strong, commanding heroines and their deliciously dominant men.
Oh and did I mention Isabel Wroth can write some steamy sex scenes?
The first half of the book was exciting as Jalia competes with other princesses for the "Queen's Ransom". It's a slow burn romance but throughout the book, you never doubt that Dhega is completely over the moon for Jalia and no one else.
The world building was ok. I was overwhelmed by all the places they visit and even now, I cannot describe what the hero looks like. He has horns and a pelt? Dunno.
The last third of the book was interesting in that it showed how the ruling King and newly appointed queen were implementing new technology on their world. However, I found myself doubting what made Jalia so special. Then her awful family became involved and I don't think we're given enough information or time to forgive what we knew about them. After a while of dealing with them, I just a didn't care.
I also didn't care the Jade + Nivir side story. Other than to show how incredibly beautiful and loving Jalia and Dhega were in comparison, I could've done without that rushed story.
In the end, I preferred Sarazen's Claim to this book. I would recommend both if you like space romance, strong, commanding heroines and their deliciously dominant men.
Oh and did I mention Isabel Wroth can write some steamy sex scenes?
January 26, 2019
1.5 stars.
This was safe, but very boring. There’s something missing from the author’s writing style and it failed to engage me. I enjoyed the multiple povs and the nice surprise twist toward the end, but unfortunately, this book just wasn’t that good.
This was safe, but very boring. There’s something missing from the author’s writing style and it failed to engage me. I enjoyed the multiple povs and the nice surprise twist toward the end, but unfortunately, this book just wasn’t that good.
September 18, 2019
Hey. Hi. Hello. :D I don't support love interests who are genocidal maniacs who are chill murdering kids and babies in public spectacles. Nor is it chill to make people undergo horrible trials to be deemed worthy. It's also not okay to be nasty and laugh at people's deaths and treat their existence as meaningless and unworthy since they were 'too weak' to exist. Nor do I support this same love interest being painted in a 'misunderstood' light.
I'm sure Eva Braun thought positive things about Adolf Hitler before they both died, got thrown in a ditch, covered in petrol and set on fire.
The thing is though. Sometimes. Despite the 'nice' things they may do, sometimes people are bigger monsters than they are people.
Thanks.
I'm sure Eva Braun thought positive things about Adolf Hitler before they both died, got thrown in a ditch, covered in petrol and set on fire.
The thing is though. Sometimes. Despite the 'nice' things they may do, sometimes people are bigger monsters than they are people.
Thanks.
January 22, 2020
DNF @ 15%
I'm sorry, but when will authors realize that having a strong, sassy, independent heroine does NOT equate to being bitchy, physically aggressive, and rude??
Wroth spends so much time telling us how arrogant and conniving the other contestants are, yet the MC is like a THOUSAND times worse! She's mean and comes across as a entitled, self-centered bitch. I just couldn't get behind her. She has some lame back-story about not living up to her other siblings' accomplishments and never being good enough for daddy. Poor baby! Cry me a river. Some people have real problems, ok? I'm sorry--it's no excuse for treating people that way.
Also, the author really needs to lay off the adverbs. JFC, it's like every other word--I couldn't breath between sentences. Here's an idea--how about we let the characters dialogue, mannerisms, and actions speak for themselves? Oh, wait--we can't, because if you take away the adverbs and the MC making snarky comments, there would be nothing left on the page.
I just don't understand the high ratings for this...actually, if you look at all the "rave" reviews for this on Audible, they look suspect (like the fake reviews on Amazon or something lol). Sigh. I know this review is mean, I'm just frustrated and probably hangry.
I'm sorry, but when will authors realize that having a strong, sassy, independent heroine does NOT equate to being bitchy, physically aggressive, and rude??
Wroth spends so much time telling us how arrogant and conniving the other contestants are, yet the MC is like a THOUSAND times worse! She's mean and comes across as a entitled, self-centered bitch. I just couldn't get behind her. She has some lame back-story about not living up to her other siblings' accomplishments and never being good enough for daddy. Poor baby! Cry me a river. Some people have real problems, ok? I'm sorry--it's no excuse for treating people that way.
Also, the author really needs to lay off the adverbs. JFC, it's like every other word--I couldn't breath between sentences. Here's an idea--how about we let the characters dialogue, mannerisms, and actions speak for themselves? Oh, wait--we can't, because if you take away the adverbs and the MC making snarky comments, there would be nothing left on the page.
I just don't understand the high ratings for this...actually, if you look at all the "rave" reviews for this on Audible, they look suspect (like the fake reviews on Amazon or something lol). Sigh. I know this review is mean, I'm just frustrated and probably hangry.
January 20, 2021
My first 5 star read this year and it was awesome. Didn't even know about this book until today, how did it escape me?
I'm in love. Everything was perfect. Totally safe. Faithful Hero. Strong Heroine. True love. No unnecessary drama. A sweet happy end. And the promise of more.
Thanks for an amazing read.
I'm in love. Everything was perfect. Totally safe. Faithful Hero. Strong Heroine. True love. No unnecessary drama. A sweet happy end. And the promise of more.
Thanks for an amazing read.
February 27, 2020
I really loved this story! It had all the things I love in a good romantic fantasy book — good world building, an interesting overall plot and backstory (not OTT and not full-of-angst!), entertaining action scenes, and MC’s with not just chemistry between them, but two individuals who have lots of heart.
I loved Jalia. I loved Dhega. And when they got together, I loved them even more. So much so, that I bought this book after reading it on KU (Kindle Unlimited).
This is going on my “favorites for 2020” shelf. And I will definitely be re-reading this book again and again through the years.
I loved Jalia. I loved Dhega. And when they got together, I loved them even more. So much so, that I bought this book after reading it on KU (Kindle Unlimited).
This is going on my “favorites for 2020” shelf. And I will definitely be re-reading this book again and again through the years.
March 10, 2021
Re-read, I've been in a slump. I hope the author writes another book in this series
This was good, the characters, the world were all enjoyable and fleshed out. New to me author Isabel Wroth wrote a great sci-fi romance and I will definitely be checking out her other work
This was good, the characters, the world were all enjoyable and fleshed out. New to me author Isabel Wroth wrote a great sci-fi romance and I will definitely be checking out her other work
December 2, 2018
The end gets a bit too wrapped up with deities or some such but it waas overall interesting.
January 22, 2020
DNF at 43%
This started out great!!! it usually takes me some time to get into Fantasy books, but I loved it even at 6%
Jalia was looking like a great character and the story reminded me of "The Hunger Games".
Dhega however was not a good character for me, and I didn’t feel for him at all.
He felt cold but with not much underneath and even after learning about his childhood I couldn’t feel any emotions towards him.
Around 30% I was beginning to feel this is dragging and not as interesting as I have expected.
I had some plot issues but since they are spoilers, I will not get into that.
this is not a very long book so if I find it impossible to continue at 40% it must not be the book for me.
This started out great!!! it usually takes me some time to get into Fantasy books, but I loved it even at 6%
Jalia was looking like a great character and the story reminded me of "The Hunger Games".
Dhega however was not a good character for me, and I didn’t feel for him at all.
He felt cold but with not much underneath and even after learning about his childhood I couldn’t feel any emotions towards him.
Around 30% I was beginning to feel this is dragging and not as interesting as I have expected.
I had some plot issues but since they are spoilers, I will not get into that.
this is not a very long book so if I find it impossible to continue at 40% it must not be the book for me.
July 30, 2019
Loved this book.
August 1, 2020
Sheeeeee-oooot man. I have fallen WAYYY behind in reviewing my books. I recently took a road trip across Washington, Idaho, Montana, and also about half of Wyoming. So, in preparation for this trip of uncomfortable hours, I loaded books on my kindle that I had either had one time or another uploaded, but for some reason never read.
This bad boy I have had uploaded (kindle unlimited) and subsequently removed from my shelf three time solely because there was a books I absolutely needed to read right at that moment. (And kindle unlimited only allows so many books so...trading y'all.)
I know...I hate me too.
Because this book was GD magical.
It was lusty.
It was alien.
It was intriguing.
It was F#&king brutal.
It was an interesting splice on the mythical Minotaur in its labyrinth.
It was everything my little frozen abyss of a heart could have ever wanted.
And my dumb-a$$ had traded it in three time before opening it.
The writing was simplistic, yet a story so cleverly beautiful was woven in a way that transported you to the world of Mino's alongside our heroine. I was constantly wondering what was going to happen, where the story could possibly go, WTF her regular hair color was....which I guess technically isn't a spoiler so whatevs.
I realize my 10-hour-drive-home-brain is doing absolutely no justice whatsoever to this story, but frankly, I don't think there are words to describe how thoroughly entertained by this story I was.
I so dig authors taking stories (especially mythological tales) and spinning them in their own way. I would totally go through some labyrinths for my own Mino's king....but potential death.....maybe....not. But hell it sure was fun reading about it!
5 I-literally-Can-Not-Believe-It-Took-Me-So-Long-To-Get-Here-WTF stars🎇
This bad boy I have had uploaded (kindle unlimited) and subsequently removed from my shelf three time solely because there was a books I absolutely needed to read right at that moment. (And kindle unlimited only allows so many books so...trading y'all.)
I know...I hate me too.
Because this book was GD magical.
It was lusty.
It was alien.
It was intriguing.
It was F#&king brutal.
It was an interesting splice on the mythical Minotaur in its labyrinth.
It was everything my little frozen abyss of a heart could have ever wanted.
And my dumb-a$$ had traded it in three time before opening it.
The writing was simplistic, yet a story so cleverly beautiful was woven in a way that transported you to the world of Mino's alongside our heroine. I was constantly wondering what was going to happen, where the story could possibly go, WTF her regular hair color was....which I guess technically isn't a spoiler so whatevs.
I realize my 10-hour-drive-home-brain is doing absolutely no justice whatsoever to this story, but frankly, I don't think there are words to describe how thoroughly entertained by this story I was.
I so dig authors taking stories (especially mythological tales) and spinning them in their own way. I would totally go through some labyrinths for my own Mino's king....but potential death.....maybe....not. But hell it sure was fun reading about it!
5 I-literally-Can-Not-Believe-It-Took-Me-So-Long-To-Get-Here-WTF stars🎇
July 22, 2021
Reread Jan 2021:
Perfect on a reread too!
————
So so good! And romantic! With a perfectly reasonable hero! So perfect! And a smart heroine! And the world building! Wow! And the characters are amazing. Toward the end of the book I kept getting amazed at how little space the author needed to flesh a new character out so well!
It’s a relief to read a book like this. One reviewer described it as ‘safe’ and I 100% agree. It’s so good to not be scared of what insult a hero will pile on the heroine next. He respects her 100% from the start and that was so good to experience. At the same time this is not a completely fluffy read. There are some serious stakes at play and the plot is completely engrossing!
Love love love!
Perfect on a reread too!
————
So so good! And romantic! With a perfectly reasonable hero! So perfect! And a smart heroine! And the world building! Wow! And the characters are amazing. Toward the end of the book I kept getting amazed at how little space the author needed to flesh a new character out so well!
It’s a relief to read a book like this. One reviewer described it as ‘safe’ and I 100% agree. It’s so good to not be scared of what insult a hero will pile on the heroine next. He respects her 100% from the start and that was so good to experience. At the same time this is not a completely fluffy read. There are some serious stakes at play and the plot is completely engrossing!
Love love love!
May 22, 2023
This was great, it felt very fresh and so enjoyable. Jalia and Dhega were great characters and the world building and setting were very engaging.
I do wish there had been less time jumps throughout the story, because I really enjoyed it so much and felt a little cheated we didn't get to eh see the wedding and festivities.
I was shocked that at 54% Jalia had finished the labyrinths. I do think the last 5-10 chapters felt very... rushed? The new subplots and the reveal of certain identities felt like they came out of nowhere?
I do wish there had been less time jumps throughout the story, because I really enjoyed it so much and felt a little cheated we didn't get to eh see the wedding and festivities.
I was shocked that at 54% Jalia had finished the labyrinths. I do think the last 5-10 chapters felt very... rushed? The new subplots and the reveal of certain identities felt like they came out of nowhere?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 4, 2018
I loved this book! The universe building was detailed without falling into the trap of info-dump. The heroine and hero were complex, multi-dimensional characters with good and bad sides. The side characters were rarely flat or just there to further the plot. The world of Minos felt very organic and like things were happening all around and we just didn't see it.
I'll be keeping an eye out for any more books in this universe!
I'll be keeping an eye out for any more books in this universe!
November 18, 2019
4.5 stars, rounded to 5.
I really enjoyed the characters, the world building, her "Luna", the main man was sexy and strong, not too much an alpha that he treated her badly, no pain and angst to work thru i.e. hes a man slut or a jerk or in love with someone else or whatever.
Just a clean love story, no complications with him.
She felt like a smart cookie too, and that she stood up for herself with strength.
I liked all the different labyrinths, the female competitors and the parts of the planet that they were held, it gave the story depth and gave it some mystery.
I felt like the 2 MC's had a natural wrap and conclusion to their story but I felt like the ending was too rushed and put together for the rest of her family and Nivik, when compared to the lushness of the unfolding of the rest of the book.
Other than that, very refreshing and very happy to return to this story again in the future.
Hmm, I may buy it too... we'll see :)
I really enjoyed the characters, the world building, her "Luna", the main man was sexy and strong, not too much an alpha that he treated her badly, no pain and angst to work thru i.e. hes a man slut or a jerk or in love with someone else or whatever.
Just a clean love story, no complications with him.
She felt like a smart cookie too, and that she stood up for herself with strength.
I liked all the different labyrinths, the female competitors and the parts of the planet that they were held, it gave the story depth and gave it some mystery.
I felt like the 2 MC's had a natural wrap and conclusion to their story but I felt like the ending was too rushed and put together for the rest of her family and Nivik, when compared to the lushness of the unfolding of the rest of the book.
Other than that, very refreshing and very happy to return to this story again in the future.
Hmm, I may buy it too... we'll see :)
April 12, 2023
Reread 4/8/23: 2 stars
I think I rated this book so high the first time because I was surprised and delighted that the second half of it delved into the repercussions of becoming the queen and her family history.
The second time around, knowing that part was coming, the first half dragged. It was embarrassingly ridiculous and juvenile in all honesty. Calling other women, no matter the species, names continuously does not convey intelligence or superiority as the author, through the male lead, wants you to believe. Instead, all it brought to mind was middle school bullying with idiotic name calling.
The mazes were plot points she needed to get through in order to begin the second half of the book, rather than obstacles she needed to overcome and push through. She didn’t have to grow as a character in order to win because she was “speshul”.
And making basically all of the other candidates appear idiotic or “evil” was lazy writing.
While I do like the main characters for who they are, at the same time, they definitely cheat the system so that she can become queen, which means, technically, she isn’t really queen because she didn’t win fairly.
The first half of the book was a slog that I would give 0 stars if possible, but the second half is what bumps up the rating for me. We really delve into their respective histories and the author weaves an interesting narrative.
I probably won’t read this again, because it didn’t end up being as good as I remembered so I’m sad about that.
ps. also that ending was wtf and came out of nowhere. i’m not complaining because suddenly it made sense that Tom could speak to people and they would spill their guts, but also….where did that come from?
Original Rating 4 stars
I think I rated this book so high the first time because I was surprised and delighted that the second half of it delved into the repercussions of becoming the queen and her family history.
The second time around, knowing that part was coming, the first half dragged. It was embarrassingly ridiculous and juvenile in all honesty. Calling other women, no matter the species, names continuously does not convey intelligence or superiority as the author, through the male lead, wants you to believe. Instead, all it brought to mind was middle school bullying with idiotic name calling.
The mazes were plot points she needed to get through in order to begin the second half of the book, rather than obstacles she needed to overcome and push through. She didn’t have to grow as a character in order to win because she was “speshul”.
And making basically all of the other candidates appear idiotic or “evil” was lazy writing.
While I do like the main characters for who they are, at the same time, they definitely cheat the system so that she can become queen, which means, technically, she isn’t really queen because she didn’t win fairly.
The first half of the book was a slog that I would give 0 stars if possible, but the second half is what bumps up the rating for me. We really delve into their respective histories and the author weaves an interesting narrative.
I probably won’t read this again, because it didn’t end up being as good as I remembered so I’m sad about that.
ps. also that ending was wtf and came out of nowhere. i’m not complaining because suddenly it made sense that Tom could speak to people and they would spill their guts, but also….where did that come from?
Original Rating 4 stars
November 2, 2021
well well well, if it isn't a 5 star book. I confess I haven't had many of these in the past year.
if you enjoy gladiator style contests, sci-fi space exploration, fierce and intelligent heroines with an attitude problem (not snarky), inter-species marriage of convenience and Ancient Greek civilizations (Minoan culture) pick it up. Pick it up rn!
if you enjoy gladiator style contests, sci-fi space exploration, fierce and intelligent heroines with an attitude problem (not snarky), inter-species marriage of convenience and Ancient Greek civilizations (Minoan culture) pick it up. Pick it up rn!
September 5, 2019
Fan-bloody-tastic retelling/twist of the labyrinth of the Minotaur. Blending sci-fi/romance/adventure/fantasy with mythology.
From the first page I was gripped...hoo, line and sinker and was a much willing victim. I loved this book hard..with its fantastic original story, beautifully creative world building, no shit taking heroine and gruff, grumpy marshmallow hero!
This book was a pleasure to read and I would love to see more form the same world.
From the first page I was gripped...hoo, line and sinker and was a much willing victim. I loved this book hard..with its fantastic original story, beautifully creative world building, no shit taking heroine and gruff, grumpy marshmallow hero!
This book was a pleasure to read and I would love to see more form the same world.
June 23, 2022
While I wasn't a fan of how side characters were and some facets of Minoan society, I adored the character development of the main couple and all the twists and revelations that were revealed by the end of the novel. A favorite for re-reading for sure.
October 30, 2018
This book was good for the first half then I got super bored with all the politics. So DNF after that.
October 13, 2022
This book was definitely an interesting read. I will say that it wasn't the most engaging I've come across but there was just enough plot to keep me interested until about half-way. Once it got to a certain part of the book, I really struggled with pushing through and actually finishing this. I am not someone who likes to DNF books but this one was getting pretty close to that point. The only reason I am giving this book 3 stars is because I like Jalia's character and how witty and smart she is. Plus, her relationship with Dhega was wholesome and being able to see how much closer they get through the trials Jalia faced was well worth the wait. If not for that, I would have given this book 2 stars. I really wish there was more time dedicated to talking about Jalia's family as they had such a big influence on Jalia's personality but there was a lack of getting to know more about them. Also, if you can get past them using the word "fark" in replacement of other curse words, then you are good to go. I just couldn't help but cringe whenever I read that and other parts of the story which made me question "what am I reading right now?" This book does have some heavy content in terms of emotional, mental, and physical strain, death, and explicit sexual scenes (although I will say in terms of what I typically read, it was a bit mild here). I probably wouldn't recommend this book unless you have the time and again, can push through some of the awkwardness.
March 17, 2022
What an amazing journey. I was transported to the planet Minos and had a great adventure.
The king of Minos, Dhega, wants to find a wife so they decide to hold a competition. All the contestants have to go through 9 labyrinths and survive. Jalia is determined to win but she gets more than what she bargained for...she develops feelings for Dhega.
Jalia is a very strong woman and she is full of spunk and snark...but not in a way to become annoying. Dhega puts on a very tough face in order to maintain order on Minos, but he's lonely and he craves love. Both these characters are so deep and layered...it adds so much richness to the story.
The world building is fascinating as well and I couldn't wait to see what the next labyrinth would hold. The best part is that the book doesn't end with the competition, we get to dive down into the planet's politics and how they plan to fit into the whole universe. Wonderful.
The king of Minos, Dhega, wants to find a wife so they decide to hold a competition. All the contestants have to go through 9 labyrinths and survive. Jalia is determined to win but she gets more than what she bargained for...she develops feelings for Dhega.
Jalia is a very strong woman and she is full of spunk and snark...but not in a way to become annoying. Dhega puts on a very tough face in order to maintain order on Minos, but he's lonely and he craves love. Both these characters are so deep and layered...it adds so much richness to the story.
The world building is fascinating as well and I couldn't wait to see what the next labyrinth would hold. The best part is that the book doesn't end with the competition, we get to dive down into the planet's politics and how they plan to fit into the whole universe. Wonderful.
October 11, 2020
Seamless blend of barbarian and sci fi
I'm trying to think of the words to convince you to read this book is you enjoy humor, bossy hero and intelligent heroine. A lovable supporting cast, a beautiful world, passion, violence, and family. A surprise five star read. Now I need to track down who recommended it.
I'm trying to think of the words to convince you to read this book is you enjoy humor, bossy hero and intelligent heroine. A lovable supporting cast, a beautiful world, passion, violence, and family. A surprise five star read. Now I need to track down who recommended it.
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