Did you love Throne of Glass? In this Crown of Midnight review, we’ll take a look at how the tone of the series majorly shifts in book two of the series.

Crown of Midnight (Throne of Glass #2), by Sarah J. Maas (YA fantasy, romantic fantasy; August 27, 2013)

The legend of unparalleled assassin Celaena Sardothien continues with a double dose of revenge, intrigue and romance.

Crown of Midnight finally gives us glimpses of Celaena’s life before she was captured and taken to Endovier. Though still spare with details of her past, Celaena shows more of her hidden abilities and becomes emotionally vulnerable. Stuck doing the evil king’s bidding, she is stagnant in other ways, too: BFF Nehemia is angry she won’t do more to stop him, and Celaena only knows how to work in the shadows.

I thought the romance, grief and anger unfolded beautifully from Celaena’s perspective. Dorian’s POV becomes more of a placeholder and Chaol sometimes verges on bland (for a captain of the guard, the dude needs some backbone), but Celaena (and her sharp new frenemy Mort) shines as she struggles to solve more supernatural riddles. It’s an exceptional second book.

My rating:

 5/5

To learn more about this author, visit sarahjmaas.com.

Need more YA fantasy?

The Cruel Prince review

Throne of Sand review

Alanna: The First Adventure review

Six Crimson Cranes review

Talking to Dragons review

Gods of Jade and Shadow review

10 Questions with author Anna Velfman

April 15, 2022April 10, 2022

It’s high time I (virtually) sat down with the fantastic indie fantasy author Anna Velfman (Avalanche). With Atheist’s Angel, the first in a new romantic fantasy series, set to release on May 29, 2022 and a 99c promo for Icedancer (Pler Series #2) beginning today (April 15-22, 2022), there couldn’t be a more perfect time! And it so happened I had a lot of questions, especially where world-building is concerned.

For more info on the promo and an ARC reader opportunity, check out the special offers at the bottom of this post. But for now…

Okay, I have to ask the obvious question first: your flagship series, the Pler Series, used to be the Pler Trilogy. Was there a key moment when you realized three books wouldn’t be enough?

Yes, about ¾ of the way through book two, Icedancer I realised the scope of the story was about to widen out. As this was my first series, I was learning about myself as much as the books and characters. As I made some major plot decisions, the entire world I had created cracked open and I suddenly had so many more options, options I was excited to explore.

When I started writing novels, I was also unsure if I could sustain writing. Three books seemed like a reasonable goal. As I am planning on releasing my fourth and fifth book this year, I decided to trust my instincts. The story needed more books.

How many books are you currently planning?

That’s a tough question. Pler series will probably end up with 6 books. Double what I was planning, but the creative process can be chaotic.

Could that change? Or might we see a spin-off at some point? (*cough cough* Lucas!)

Yes—I have so many potential ideas. Lanna’s brother has a story to tell, so does Lucas, but I also have an idea for characters based around the Haven Isles and pirates. I have a weakness for the found family trope, as well as stories of redemption and people finding how to accept themselves.

This spin-off ticks all those boxes—but it would require significant research. My nautical knowledge needs improvement. Also, pirates are fun to write, especially as the Empire is attempting to ‘civilise’ the region. It gives them something to kick against. Seriously, I need to find more time in the day to get all these books written!

In your latest book, Avalanche, readers got to see a lot more of the science fantasy underpinnings of the world. Did you always see Pler as a fantasy world with sci-fi elements, or was it the other way around?

Pler was always intended to be a science fantasy, but with the characters knowing so little about what went before, the first few books would be better classed as low fantasy. I am excited to get book four, Blizzard out in the world. Lanna meets rebels, decides on her level of involvement and the direction of change she wants to see. However, she is aware it is ancient technology that gives her the respect of these people and that is a blow to her ego. Book five will dive into true science fantasy because that is when she come’s up against Lucas’s people for the first time—but I can’t say much more on that, I must avoid spoilers.

You got your start as a fan fiction writer. What lessons did you take with you when you began crafting your own worlds?

A developed solid writing habit. Being a fanfiction writer trained me how to sit and get words on the page. How to manage my time and how long it took me to produce a finished chapter.

Best lesson I learned, get as many eyes on my work as Icould. At one point, I had a team of volunteers checking every chapter. I got used to getting feedback and taking criticism. (Some of those reviewers were harsh!)

When I started writing for myself, I knew I needed feedback on my draft. I went to wattpad and joined book clubs. I went to scribophile and critiqued other authors’ work and others did the same for me. Slowly, I learned more about the craft of writing rather than just throwing sentences together. I read dozens of craft books, took notes, watched youtube videos and all the while I found other authors to talk to. SoSnowblind took four years, and I don’t know how many re–writes before it hit the bookshelves. I am faster now I know what I am doing!

We have to talk about your forthcoming romantic fantasy novel, Atheist’s Angel. On the surface, it appears to be completely different from the Pler Series. Are there any common threads between the two?

Well, they are very different, but they both centre around a woman who is somewhat lost. Both Lanna and Gabriela need to find their way in life and shape a future for themselves. The villains in both books also share similarities. I am fascinated by power and its corruptive influence. The Emperor in the Pler series and certain Gods in the Celestial series suffer from hubris and the arrogance that they know better than the little people.

There is certainly romance in the Pler Series, but always with politics and schemes getting in the way. How would you characterize the romance in Atheist’s Angel?

Much more healthy!

I did not want the Pler series to have a strong romantic subplotbecause it was more about Lanna finding her way in the world, making mistakes and learning to do better. Her romantic relationships turn fairly toxic, but that is all part of her finding she deserves better.

Atheist’s Angel is much more romance driven. Two people meet, are attracted to each other but an ocean of complicationsget in the way. They have a mission and a time limit. Despite all that, they draw out the best in each other, even when circumstances test them to the limit. It’s an action-packedslow burn that will be the start of a long running series focusing on a large cast with interconnected stories all featuring strong romance elements.

I’ve always loved the world-building in the Pler Series. It’s so imaginative! Was it challenging to write in a real-world setting for Atheist’s Angel?

Well without going into too many spoilers it starts in the real world, but soon moves elsewhere. It was a challenge to mesh the fantastical and normality in such a way that a reader can suspend their disbelief.

It opens with our conflicted hero, Tararus helping end a bloody conflict between his people and a demonic race. He ends up in our world and discovered by Gabriela. She’s soon sucked into his world and her whole perception of what reality is must shift. She lives in a multiverse, but only a select few humans can access it.

This gave me a lot of creative freedom. I do write the dialogue drafts with a writing partner. She prefers not to be involved with the re–writes into novels or any of the publicity, but half the ideas of character and setting are hers, I just take them and run with them. So, the worldbuilding is not all mine, it’s a joint effort and I think it’s all the richer for that.

Can you give us any hints about what we’ll see from your books in the future?

The next Pler book is ready for drafting, I will be starting it as soon as Atheist’s Angel is with my editor. We will get to see more of the continent and more of the issues Lanna only heard about in the palace- also the fan favourite, Lucas, gets to finally take centre stage with her, I honestly can’t wait to write him as a free entity and not trapped as he has been for three books.

The Celestial series has 7 possible books so far– and counting. Myself and my writing partner have been working on these stories as a fun side project since 2018 and they were never intended to be seen by anyone but us… that was until I entered a contest with a novella based on Tararus and Gabriela’s adventures—10,000 people read it and it got shortlisted.

That was when we took it seriously and I decided these stories needed to be put out into the world as books. It’s been a long process of rewrites and agreeing on lore, magic systems and story direction, but it’s all come together finally. I’ve even had a developmental editor involved who worked for Pan Macmillan. These are also the longest books I have put out so far, over 100k but the people I have collaborated with have given me the confidence to pull this story together for a wider audience.

With each book, the universe expands. I’ve started a massive series bible just to keep track of all the races, places, languages, gods, religious and cultural details. I am really looking forward to getting these books out into the world and seeing what readers old and new think of them.

Thank you so much for taking the time out of your busy writing schedule to answer my questions. I like to finish my interviews with a challenge: write a story in ten words or less!

Regrets? Not washing the blood off the blade.

Special Offers

Icedancer (Pler Series #2) is on sale for 99c from 4/15-4/22/22, and Snowblind (Pler Series #1) continues to be free. To purchase, please visit the Universal book link for Snowblind and the UBL for Icedancer.

To become an ARC reader for Atheist’s Angel (the first 50 readers receive a free ebook and a book art postcard!), contact the author via her email (contact [at] annavelfman.com) or on social media (links can be found on annavelfman.com) prior to May 1, 2022.

Anna Velfman is the author of the Pler Series and the forthcoming Celestial Series. To learn more about this author, visit annavelfman.com.

Her Dreadful Will review

April 12, 2022April 10, 2022

Do these words check any boxes for you? Slow-burn romance. Spice. Witches. Southern gothic. Modern technology meets magic society. Opposites attract. If all that sounds good to you, you need to read this Her Dreadful Will review (and maybe pick up a copy!).

Her Dreadful Will, by Rebecca F. Kenney (fantasy romance, southern gothic, urban fantasy; April 6, 2022)

Note: I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review. Her Dreadful Will contains violence and adult content.

This book was an unusual find for me. I read a limited number of contemporary fantasies and fantasy romances. Thanks to Her Dreadful Will‘s clever combination of modern technology and a hidden, highly regulated society of witches (and later, that slow-burn spicy romance), I couldn’t stop thinking about it. Fans of Kingdom of the Wicked will likely enjoy it, too.

Another unusual thing about this book is its wholesome main character’s love interest. While Soleil just wants to prove her rare mind-flex powers can be a force for good, bad boy (dentist!) Achan is all about tearing things down and causing mayhem. The dance between these two feels like it could be deadly at any moment, yet Soleil finds herself drawn to Achan. At times, she even agrees with him.

The magic system is amazing. The witchcraft and rituals in Her Dreadful Will are extremely well-defined and immersive, to the point that they’re almost another character. Supporting characters have interesting personalities, too, and short story-style chapters, centered on the townspeople Soleil tries to help, really drew me in to the story. I wasn’t a fan of Achan at first, so the early middle dragged for me, but soon I was eager to see what happened next again.

I’d pick up another book from this author anytime.

My rating:

 4.5/5

To learn more about this author, visit Rebecca F. Kennedy’s website.

Skin of the Sea review

April 5, 2022March 28, 2022

African mermaids and dragons, mythological odysseys and mortals versus the gods, oh my! In this Skin of the Sea review, I delve into this spectacular book (and what other popular YA fantasy I’d compare it to).

Skin of the Sea (Skin of the Sea #1), by Natasha Bowen (mythology, YA fantasy; November 9, 2021)

In case you thought epic mythological adventures only happened in ancient Rome and Greece, Natasha Bowen is here to set the record straight. Bowen throws down the gauntlet with the Yoruba legends-based Skin of the Sea, an action tale of an unwittingly disobedient mermaid who must set things right.

At it’s core, Skin of the Sea is a story of love, sacrifice and forgiveness. It’s also an odyssey full of mythological creatures from Nigeria and beyond. (Note: Bowen’s inspiration is discussed at the end of the book and should not be missed). With the help of humans she can’t fully trust (and one she’s almost instantly drawn to), Simi must seek forgiveness from the supreme deity for interfering in human affairs. Unfortunately for Simi, an embittered trickster-slash-messenger god stands in her way.

This wonderful book has beautiful writing and true heart. Though it’s not for those who prefer a tidy ending (book two can’t come fast enough!), it should be required reading for mythology fans. Anyone who loved Six Crimson Cranes should likewise pick up Skin of the Sea.

My rating:

 5/5

For more on this author, visit natashabowen.com.

Protected: The Fishermen’s Princess Chapter Ten

March 31, 2022December 14, 2022

Protected: The Fishermen’s Princess Chapter Nine

March 31, 2022December 14, 2022

Only a Monster review

March 29, 2022March 28, 2022

This one is for fantasy, romance and time travel fans. This Only a Monster review takes a look at the fast-paced YA fantasy by Vanessa Len, including the unusual romance and the one thing that might turn readers off.

Only a Monster (Monster #1), by Vanessa Len (romantic YA fantasy, time travel; February 22, 2022)

This book was such an unexpected surprise for me! Full of heartache, adventure and moral dilemmas, Only a Monster takes its MC, Joan, from life as a history-loving teenager (admittedly, one who often reads as younger than 16) on a journey through recent history.

When one tragic night leaves Joan on the run with the strikingly dapper Aaron, it sets the stage for star-crossed but understated drama. Aaron is an Oliver and Joan is a Hunt; the two London Monster families don’t mix. Life was far simpler for Romeo and Juliet.

It was refreshing to see an earnest heroine with two love interests without a love triangle forming. In fact, all the tropes in Only a Monster are subverted. Joan has been told she’s the savior of all monsters, yet she’s clueless. The hero is the bad guy, there are gray areas galore, and destined love is all but impossible.

Fans of Claire North’s The First Fifteen Lives of Harry August and David Mitchell’s The Bone Clocks will enjoy this well-paced, heartfelt book, as will romantic fantasy fans. I’m excited to see what the rest of the series will bring.

My rating:

 4.5/5

For more information on this author, visit vanessalen.com.

Need more YA fantasy reviews?

Thorn review

The Cruel Prince review

Wild Magic review

Sabriel review

Tempests and Slaughter review

Sunbolt review

Throne of Glass review

For the Wolf review

March 22, 2022March 14, 2022

For readers who like their fairy tale retellings a little darker, For the Wolf should be high on your TBR list. Keep reading my For the Wolf review to find out why!

For the Wolf (Wilderwood #1), by Hannah Whitten (fantasy, romantic fantasy; June 1, 2021)

As a second daughter in her country’s royal family, Redarys was born a sacrifice to the Wilderwood. Despite her twin’s best efforts, Red wants to accept her fate. A piece of the Wilderwood’s magic is in her already, and Red is sick of holding it back.

With themes of fanaticism and false religion (as well as a surprisingly large subplot of delightful romance), the power of nature, described here as neither good nor bad, squares off against dark, evil magic in For the Wolf. As Red’s twin tries to save her, profound grief becomes an obsession until twin is (unwittingly) pitted against twin.

The writing is equal parts plot and character driven and is dense with descriptive detail. It took a little getting used to for me, but there were many great lines and I appreciated that it delved into grief, actually making it a cornerstone of the plot. One caveat: this book is not for those squeamish about blood.

My favorite part of For the Wolf was the romance. The Wolf in question, Eamon, is almost literally set up with Red by the Wilderwood. Though they are essentially fated mates, the development of their relationship is gradual and sweet. Book two has very much earned its place on my own tbr.

My rating:

 4.5/5

To learn more about this author, visit hannahfwhitten.com.

Want more fairy tale retellings?

Special Feature: Retellings to Thrill Any Fantasy Reader

Bride of the Shadow King review

March 15, 2022March 14, 2022

If you’re looking for romantic fantasy where plot comes first, action is second and romance claws it’s way into third, with princesses, fae vs. humans, trolls (ahem, trolldefolk) and arranged marriage (or if you thought yes to any one of these things), might I enthusiastically suggest this Bride of the Shadow King review? Read on!

Bride of the Shadow King (Bride of the Shadow King #1), by Sylvia Mercedes (fantasy, romantic fantasy; March 15, 2022)

Note: I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.

Farraine is a disgraced princess with a painful empath gods-gift; Vor is a hunky half-trollde, half-human king of an underground realm. These two hit it off right away, but unfortunately for them, it’s Faraine’s younger sister Ilsevel who’s destined to marry Vor in this twisty and exciting romantic fantasy.

If you’re hoping for a tidy romance, this book will leave you in agony! Farraine and Vor are truly star-crossed, and constant unexpected events (plus the great action sequences I now expect from author Sylvia Mercedes) keep the course of love rocky as a trollde hide. This is truly an eventful book, full of swoony touches and missed connections.

This excellent book’s plot is riveting, and the traditional fantasy feel of Vor’s perspective was a welcome surprise. I enjoyed both POVs equally and grew fond of supporting characters like Hael and a certain sister of Farraine. Beyond telling you I can’t wait for book two, I honestly don’t think I should tell you more! That’s how chuck full of plot twists it is.

My rating:

 5/5

To learn more about this author, visit sylviamercedesbooks.com.

More reviews of this author’s books

Daughter of Shades review

Of Silver and Secrets review

Enchanting Fate review

February 22, 2022February 22, 2022

It’s time for another Beauty and the Beast retelling! In this Enchanting Fate review, I’ll take a look at the clean romantic fantasy (with swearing but no spice) and the promising writing of a debut author. To learn more, read on!

Enchanting Fate (Fairy Tales of Gallia #1), by Ashley Evercott (New Adult Romantic Fantasy, Fairytale Retelling; March 1, 2022)

Note: I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.

Ashley Evercott’s debut novel, Enchanting Fate, is a Beauty and the Beast retelling with shades of Downtown Abbey and Upstairs Downstairs. Told through four POVs by characters of varying social standing, this version stays true to the original tale’s spirit by focusing on money and social class without sacrificing romance.

That romantic side of the story is where Evercott’s writing excels. I only wish there was more of it. For Marguerite, who has fallen on hard times like Belle, breaking the Beast’s curse is mostly transactional. Yet those tuning in for the romance won’t be disappointed with descriptions like “All she wanted was to be looked at like how he was looking at her now—like she was spring itself, breathing life into his soul” and “He remained the keeper of her prickly heart.” Not to mention “If she had the choice, she would capture time, rearrange the stars, and hold this moment in her hands forever.” More of that, please!

Because I enjoyed these moments of pure romantic storytelling so much, I wished the rest of the story was as polished. The pacing of Enchanting Fate can feel rushed. I also thought the characters needed deeper exploration. In particular, the POV-wielding servants in the cursed manor, Claude and Isa, could’ve used more backstory and personality separate from their situation and love interests.

That being said, the plot and overall message of being true to yourself is told in a unique and interesting way. Evercott has the potential to write like Sylvia Mercedes or Hannah Whitten (both authors of swoony fantasy romances with darker backbones). As this series of fairytale retellings continues, I hope to see more wonderfully described romance and the character-driven storytelling to match it.

My rating:

 4/5

To learn more about this author, visit ashleyevercott.wordpress.com.