The Crimson Witch is determined to free her undead army and wreak havoc on the world, both seen and unseen. Death would be too kind a mercy for those faerie traitors compared to the torment she has endured. And she will get her vengeance, no matter the cost.
Four enchanted objects, each sealed by dark blood and ancient magic, have bound her. But they also hold the power to set her free once and for all.
After being captured and imprisoned in the Black Lake, Enya and the others must find a way to undo the wicked damage done once they escape, even if that means uniting feuding faerie courts, runaway royals, and rival gangs. Deals have been made in the shadows, each at an impossible cost.
But with lies and secrecy around every turn and two more hidden relics remaining, Enya can’t be sure whose word she can trust, if anyone’s.
With everything hanging in the balance, can unlikely alliances keep the world from falling into darkness?
◦ I've received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review ◦
⮞ 𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐬𝐲𝐧𝐨𝐩𝐬𝐢𝐬 ⮜ The story follows Enya and her band trying to escape The Crimson Witch while also working on her plan on finding the artifacts needed to put the witch where she belongs once and for all.
⮞ 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬 ⮜ I loved the multi-pov we get, I've enjoyed the fact that besides Enya's pov we get many more and you can see each character how they deal with their feelings and their fears. The growth of Enya is definitely palpable in the book, and I loved the new shift in the relationships I do feel she's had more chemistry with the Prince than with Carson. I like that each character drives the story one way or the other but the book doesn't focus too much on each character, you get enough of each character to make your own opinion about them and get a bit attached to them.
⮞ 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝-𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 ⮜ Is definitely interesting. I loved the research the author did in the book about the Romanian words and some of our Romanian dishes, It legit made me giggle because it made me miss eating them lol. And their world was definitely divided between humans, creatures, and the rich the battle of survival in the book is definitely a big focus and very crucial - each one of them tries to live another day by any possible means. I loved that feeling of doom that lingered in each corner and how hopeless it made me feel.
⮞ 𝐌𝐚𝐠𝐢𝐜 𝐒𝐲𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐦 ⮜ The magic system is pretty complex because you have so many elements and so many creatures that have powers. In general, the characters that the story focuses on, you get to know about their powers, and the information provided doesn't feel like an info dump which I liked.
⮞ 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐈 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞𝐝 ⮜ I loved the Romanian details, I felt they added that tiny bit of difference in the story and the fact the author took the time to research these things and make them accurate was definitely lovely - I haven't read any books by now that had any Romanian elements. The book felt for me fast pace, quick, and easy to read, and even if the book is told more instead of showing I enjoyed the story development. However, I did wish for the battle scenes to feel a bit more impactful, they were a bit gory - not extremely but I felt they lacked that wow fact that would make you shudder. The book might have some trigger warnings such as blood, killing, injuries, and abuse - as usual, I'm not a person that gets triggered easily but some people might not feel comfortable with these type of scenes.
⮞ 𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞 ⮜ The book doesn't contain any spice. The romance is a very slow-burn romance between Enya and the Prince and their relationship hasn't gone further than a kiss and some cuddly moments.
I loved this so much, I love Enya so much more now, I mean I love all of them , but she is so strong on appearance, but has such hidden depths, her loyalty is really tested in this book, without spoilers (because the synopsis tells you as much) Enya is taken prisoner and we learn why she hates The Crimson Witch so much prior to this, not everything is as it seems and there are plots afoot for Enya and the Princes.
I love a multi POV book, especially onedone well Ike this is, I enjoy seeing different perspectives and insights into characters, the love triangle comes to a head in this book, or so it seems as there is a third book due, but for now it seems to be headed towards one particular man, but you’ll have to read to see what happens and who wins out, for now.
Overall, the second book in this trilogy introduces the reader to more of the world, more challenges, betrayals, more characters and more about Mad King and his evil Queen, but it ends on a cliff and ooh am I mad with a certain character right now, I need the last book in the trilogy so much, because there are so many answers I need and it’s clearly setting up for the next that I can’t wait to watch unfold.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is the second book in The Royal Thieves Trilogy. What does an evil imprisoned witch who is ready for her revenge, Enya, Fairies and other beings have in common? They all want to escape. The question is can they? You need this book on your life.
The second book of this series hit all the boxes the prequel missed and ended up being a well-rounded read.
This was a multi-POV take on the plot, which added layers to the story. We could see different situations being handled all around, not just by Enya. We got to see Enya as a character finally, with her past and present. There was real character growth in this book.
Carson had taken a dark route in this one which saddens me, since he was a best friend to Enya. I’m interested in his end game since he doesn’t seem to know it himself. I liked that we got to see Enya interacting with other members of her gang. There was a real relationship among them here.
The Crimson Witch played a major role in this book, which made the story exciting. We got to see a bit of her past and her becoming the villain. She’s portrayed as an undefeatable character who is still looking to find herself in some places. I’m looking forward to watching her plan her moves and see if Enya and others can thwart her plans.
We finally got a heist element to the story which was exciting. Every character was given a chance to shine and I enjoyed every second of it. I’m excited for the last book of the trilogy to wrap it all up!
Thank you to the author and RR Book Tours for sending me a copy to review!
The Crimson Witch -The Royal Thieves Trilogy Book 2- Review
Couple: Enya with Caron & Prince Rowan
Author: Ashley Olivier
Tropes: Royal romance, magic, PNR, morally grey, epic quests
Review: Enya’s loyalty is tested in book 2 when she is taken hostage and held as a prisoner by the Crimson Witch. We learn why Enya hates the Crimson n Witch so much prior to her imprisonment. After the revelation at the end of book 1 about the missing parts of Enya’s past we are left to wonder what became of Niall and Beacon returning to the Raven Thief headquarters. We soon see that not everything is as it seems and many devious plots are at play that evolve Enya and the three princes.
Book 2 also is written from many POV’s. This gives us the chance to read events that are simultaneously occurring in each area in the world being built. The many POVs also allow us to gain knowledge about many different minds of characters and provides insight into some of the plots and betrayals to come. This book saw the end of Enya’s feelings for Carson and the growing relationship between her and Rowan.
I felt like Rowan grew a lot as a character in book 2 and began to develop into a leader of his people. I enjoyed reading the clean romance between Enya and Rowan and hope book 3 will have chapters from his POV as well. Their bonds are tested when Enya owns up to her past and then almost dies trying to save Rowan from the Crimson Witch.
Overall, the second installment in this trilogy exposes us to many different characters and worlds. We get to see the Fae realms the first time and are shown how much superiority the Fae have in this book. We also get to see the loss of sanity in the Mad King and Evil Queen is Skeyya. This all ends on a cliffhanger where we see Carson take Beacon to appease the Crimson Witch.
This book is great for anyone wanting to continue the trilogy or delve into a new world of intrigue and fantasy.
Rating: 10/10, intense action and healing in book 2
I received a free copy of this book from Ashley in exchange for a honest review.
I don't know where to begin. I felt the book started off a bit slow similar to book 1 but it quickly picked up pace. There was a lot more action and I felt the characters developed more. We were given chapters from different chapters P.O.V which I thought was great as you get to see the motives and emotions behind their actions. I was rooting for Carson in book 1 but now find him to be horrible. I can't believe he's double crossing them. He reminds me of Tristan in the House of Dragon TV show. He's butt hurt because he got rejected and so betrays her instead of being a true friend. I am still holding out hope he redeems himself.
Loved getting a bit of romance between Enya and Rowan but I want more. I did not see the part coming about the true identity of Rowan's mother. It will definitely make things interesting going forth. Enya developing faerie powers and turning faerie will make her even more of a badass.
I felt this book delved deeper in people's back stories, liked the extra info we were given surrounding the crimson witch and the faerie courts. I especially loved the winter court scenes, as well as the circus, the masquerade and the secret society.
I felt a few things still need a bit of tidying up with editing etc. I found one paragraph had been doubled up about 75% of the way through.
I really enjoyed book 2 and will be patiently waiting for the release of book 3 as it did leave me with a lot of questions I need the answers to. Is Niall really dead? Is the king dead or is he just locked up somewhere while the crimson witch impersonates him? Is Sean Enya's father? I definitely preferred it to book 1 but still loved both. Would definitely recommend.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
This book was a great ride from one end to the next. The characters, the magic, the world, all of it was just so enchanting.
This book is multiple POV, which I both love and hate. It’s great because we can see everyone’s perspective while the group is apart (capture? Imprisonment? I hate to say that is one of my favorite things in fantasy books…. The MC being rescued is such a great moment.) but also, I always want more from someone. I can’t really put my finger on who I want more from in this book, but with the changing POVs, I was never quite satisfied. That being said, both Rowan and sent a really grew as characters and I loved watching that happen.
There is also such an intricate magic system. There are tons of powers and rules and I got a little bit lost. That’s more of a me issue, though, as I get super distracted.
The love triangle in this book was so good. It was the fizzling out of one relationship and the complete growth and changing of the other. I really appreciate that I don’t feel like this was strung out for too too long.
Overall, the world and magic and plot was great. I would so highly recommend this series.
The cliffhangers in this series are crazy, this one especially, with the events of this story coming to a head just before the ending and of course leaving me wanting more.
I really enjoyed the multiple POV’s that are used throughout this book. We get further insight into other key players in the game using this and I felt that this really helped to bolster the story and allow it to flow beautifully from one group of characters to the next.
I am pleased to say that the banter game remains strong in this book, with the characters being as much themselves as in the last book. The feeling of the unknown is still strong in this book keeping you on your toes, but this is one of the things that I love the most about this series.
There were some absolutely heartbreaking moments in this book, and there were some heartwarming moments as well. Ashley has done an incredible job of making her characters relatable and lovable so that you are swept up into the story and just taken along for the ride.
I received an ARC copy of this book and can confirm that this is my honest review.
Thank you Ashley for the ARC of this book. All opinions are my own.
Picking up where book two left off, you are thrust right back into the action from page one. There are twists, turns, heartache and love screaming off the pages. At times, while great elements, they seemed a little disjointed which is why this is only a 4 star for me. But I’ve debated between 4 and 4.5 stars. I just wanted a little more cohesion at times. It felt like it was go, go, go and the jumping between so many points of view was jarring at times. While it was important, so that you got the full picture, it was just a bit disorienting.
I definitely loved the world, the enemies to lovers, the betrayal, the heartbreak and the growth of the characters. Enya is wildly smart and cunning, so watching the develop more was great! I loved the transformations Rowan and Carson took as well. All around, a decent second book! I’m excited to see what book 3 holds.
Enya is a teenage rebellion leader, seeking to free three princes and defeat the Crimson Witch, all while trying to take down a corrupt king. Is it too much to handle and will she ever get the princes free?
Book two just upped the greatness of this series. I thought book one was great, but this one blew me away. The Crimson Witch is more relatable than what I expected. She is seeking revenge for being imprisoned, and who can blame her? I know she is the villain, but I couldn't help but feel sorry for her and kind of wish she would get a little revenge. Enya is a great FMC and can hold her own against anyone she comes up against. She has so much going on and it's exhausting just reading about everything she's dealing with at once.
You have to read The Raven's Thief first, otherwise you will be completely lost. This book continues from book one, and we start with high action.
Crimson Witch is Raven Thiefs sequel and wow. I thought book 1 was fast paced. This book sets off exactly where book 1 ended and you are off. Enya, Carson, three Princes and an odd assortment of Fae, undead and others are on a mission to defeat the Crimson witch. Are they all on the same side?? Enya needs to find the sword to defeat the Crimson Witch and we travel all over to find it. Secrets are revealed, questions lurk around every corner, betrayals and so much more. The Princes father wants his sons back, the Fae courts want the Witch defeated for good and Enya wants to save her friends. Add this series to your TBR if you love underdogs, magic, fae, found family , adventure and a handsome prince! Who gets what they want? I have some theories but can't wait to see in Book 3 what I got right or wrong!! I received an ARC for a review.
I received a free ARC of this book from Ashley in exchange for my honest review
This book carries on from book 1, The Raven Thief. I feel this book picked up very quickly, and there was more character and story development compared to the first. I really enjoyed the different character points of view and did not expect the twist with Carson, I'm not sure he can redeem himself, but you never know.
This book delves deeper into the characters' stories, which draws you more into the story as I found there was a bit of a lack of this in book 1.
This was a great book. There are a few little things that might need tidying up and editing, but it didn't put me off in the slightest. I'll be waiting excitingly for book 3, hopefully it answers some of my questions.
I would definitely recommend adding this series to your to be read
“After all, this was what they wanted. A caged animal could only be tamed so long. A creature could only be kicked so many times before it bit. And she was neither animal nor creature, but something so much worse.”
This is the second book of the Royal Thieves Trilogy. It dives deep into the world of being imprisoned by the the crimson witch and all the horrible things that entails. You do however find out why the crimson witch is so evil. I wouldn’t go so far as to say it’s justified, but she has her reasons. I was pleasantly surprised by the change in Rowan, and never saw the twist of betrayal that Enya was forced to sit with while dealing with everything else. The story is left unresolved as there is a third and final book in the series coming soon and I can’t wait to see if justice is served in the final chapter.
I received a free arc copy and so far I am enjoying this book. Due to family commitments I am only about 60% through but I am enjoying picking up where book 1 finished. I feel the relationships and character development are improving in this 2nd book. The Carson twist has kept me guessing which I enjoy The only reason for 4 star review at the moment is due to the fact I am still struggling to understand the "bad ass" side of Emya and how she came to rule the Grimms when she self doubts and embarasses easily, however as I say I still have the rest of the book to complete and I look forward to reading more about the journey to beat The Crimson Witch.
Book two and it kicks off where it left us in book one. Once again I found myself swept away into this world although it is a little darker this time because of the crimson witch. The storyline continues to grip you and hold on tight as this adventure of trauma, betrayal and brutality carries on taking you along for the ride. The twists and turns will have you spinning and the characters, well their development is simply fantastic as they continue to grow and battle their way through. It’s a great continuation and I am so eager for the conclusion!
✨ARC Review ✨ *** Thank you to Ashley Olivier for the ARC to review. *** The Crimson Witch picks up where book 1 ended. This book was a bit darker and full of betrayal. The writing was well done and it hooked me from the start. I loved the world building and the characters. Enya was amazing and I loved her personality and her bravery. The characters developed alot better in this book and the storyline flowed naturally. I loved and hated the betrayal and it broke my heart because I had high hopes for this character and Enya. I am looking forward for book 3! *** ⭐⭐⭐.5 ***
“The Crimson Witch” is the second book in Ashley Olivier’s The Royal Thieves trilogy, and it was just as action packed as the first one!!! I really liked Enya’s character development in this one, and I thought the plot was interesting. I also loved learning more about the Grims and the three dead princes. This book also had a little more romance, but it’s not the main focus. I’m excited to see what happens next!!!
Ok, Ibinged it! Now what? What a place to end a book! The cliffhangers. The agony! I thoroughly enjoyed it. Much more brutal than book 1, we really get to know the depravity of a handful of characters, one in particular that we thought we knew... We really find out which characters we LOVE and trust in this book. I will be crossing my fingers for book 3 to come out! 🤞🤞
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
After reading the first book in this series and loving it, I had high expectations for this sequel and honestly, I was blown away with the high quality. So engaging! So much suspense and action! A traitor in our midst? Excellent plot twists and an absolutely fantastic story. Can't wait to see how it all unfolds in book 3.
A slow start just like with Raven Thief, but the pace picked up quickly and there were more action scenes in this compared to the first which helped make it feel more high stakes. The magic system felt better described and I loved learning about it, and how it interacted with the environment, and used in their technology. Ashley’s research on romanian foods made the food even more mouthwatering, and I wished I could have jumped into the book and tried it right then and there haha. Characters this time felt more flushed out compared to book one, and I am happy it seems that the love triangle is done for! FIngers crossed! Enya however still felt very naive and nothing like the ruthless gang leader she tries to be. But I do hpe the plot twist leads to her being that ruthless leader! THankfull the dialouge didn’t feel as forced but it still did not flow as smoothly so I am looking forward to book 3 to see how this changes!
I received a copy of this book from the author. I enjoyed it, however it was hard for me to follow some as I didn't read the first one. I did enjoy it anyways. I don't normally read fantasy books, but this one was good. If fantasy and witches, faeries and that are your interest, this is a good one.
I really enjoyed reading this book. This book grabbed me and took me away to another world. It moves along at a great pace, has interesting characters and a story that does not disappoint. This is a must read book that needs to be at the top of your TBR pile.
I received an e-arc of this book in exchange for an honest review. I throughly enjoyed the pace and character development in this book. It was overall a great second book following The Raven Thief. Can’t wait for the rest of Enya’s story
*I GOT AN ARC OF THIS BOOK TO REVIEW* This book was so fun and exciting!! I loved Enya as a character and I found myself at the edge of my seat to see what would happen next with her, the gang and the princes. Can’t wait for a third and I’m so grateful I got to read this book early!!
As a second in a series it was very confusing. Very little is hashed out in the story about the first books ending. I personally enjoy a little flashback or synopsis in the first couple chapters.
The Crimson Witch was a fast paced journey from start to finish, which surprised me. I try to steer clear of longer books and series, which this book is also a part of. Something about Enya drew me in though, and I’m so glad it did!
I have read this book and giving my honest review. After I got into the book I enjoyed it. Twists turns and excitement. Hope you enjoy as much as I did
I really enjoyed the story line and plot of this book. The author did an amazing job with the characters. I couldn't put it down. I recommend this series.
I loved it! This book picks up right where book 1 left off. I loved the development of the characters and the twists and turns that I didn’t see coming! I can’t wait for book 3🖤