It was so incredible being back in this magical world. I loved it!

Jasalyn is now the shadow princess. It’s been three years since the events of These Twisted Bonds. She’s avoiding her trauma. And is dreading the day she turns into a faerie. But when she sneaks off and comes into contact with Felicity, Felicity uses her magic to take her place and Jas ventures off with Kendrick - the male who helped her live three years ago.

My thoguhts: Now, as much as I loved the original duology, I have to say this book started a little low for me. At first, I didn't like the new Jasalyn. She seemed so different to the snippets we'd been giving in These Hollow Vows and I felt like there was a little bit of a disconnect but as soon as the story got going (around 20%) I was HOOKED. We had a very early on 'who did this to you?' scene which I squealed at. I really loved Felicity's chapters and her character was brilliant.

A fantastic addition to the series, filled with schemes, betrayal and heartbreak as well as some classic fantasy tropes and one hell of a cliffhanger. Highly recommend if you loved the original duology (I feel this added to my reading experience) and looking forward to book 2

Another book in the same world as These Hollow Vows? Sign 👏 me 👏 up 👏
Whilst I don't think it's completely necessary to have read THV first, I do think it would be beneficial, and would help massively in avoiding spoilers!
It was so much fun to be back in this world, reuniting with characters I already knew, diving deeper into their stories in some cases.
We have two POVs in this book: Felicity and Jasalyn (Brie's sister), and both were equally gripping - it was really fun to see how their two stories connected. Whilst Jas could sometimes be frustrating with her distrust of the fae, I found it really interesting to read about what she had been through and the subsequent trauma, and this helped me understand a bit more why she felt how she did. I also really loved the element of Jas' ring!
Some of the romance elements felt a little too rushed for me, but overall both were enjoyable to read.
There were definitely some unexpected twists, and Lexi has set this up perfectly for the second book, which I'll definitely be picking up!

— 4.5 stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫

"Fear isn't a measure of cowardice, and pain isn't a measure of weakness. You are brave and strong and anything but broken.”

📖 | 432 pages
👤 | author Lexi Ryan
🏢 | publisher Hodderscape
📅 | release date 9 July 2024

What you can expect:
— Young Adult Fantasy Romance
— First Person POV
— Dual POV
— First Instalment In A Duology
— Forbidden Romance
— "Who Did This To You"
— Close Proximity
— Betrayal & Secrets
— Hidden Identity
— Only One Horse
— Slow-Burn Romance
— Found Family

Beneath These Cursed Stars is the first instalment in a duology by author Lexi Ryan. Princess Jasalyn has a secret. Armed with an enchanted ring that gives her death’s kiss, Jas has been sneaking away from the palace at night to assassinate her enemies. Shape-shifter Felicity needs a miracle. Fated to kill her magical father, she’s been using her unique ability to evade a fatal prophecy. When rumours of evil king Mordeus’s resurrection spread through the shadow court, Jasalyn decides to end him once and for all. Felicity agrees to take the form of the princess, allowing Jas to covertly hunt Mordeus—and starting Felicity on the path that could finally take her home. While Jasalyn teams up with the charming and handsome Kendrick, Felicity sets out to get closer to the Wild Fae king, Misha. Kendrick helps Jasalyn feel something other than anger for the first time in three years, and Misha makes Felicity wish for a world where she’s free to be her true self. Soon, the girls’ missions are at risk right alongside their hearts. The future of the human and fae realms hangs in the balance as fates intertwine. Between perilous tasks, grim secrets, and forbidden romances, Jasalyn and Felicity find that perhaps their stars are the most cursed of all.

I will start this review by stating that whilst you don't necessarily need to read the These Hollow Vows duology to understand the story in its entirety, I would recommend it as I was unaware of the connection between both series and found myself confused during the first 15% of the story. The story begins recounting the main events that occur within the These Hollow Vows duology where Jasalyn's sister Brie is the main character, and as somebody unfamiliar with Brie's journey I was definitely overwhelmed with the sheer volume of plot history being tossed my way. However once I got past this initial portion of the story and settled into the present, Beneath These Cursed Stars was an breeze to read through with its consistent and efficient pacing. The characters were a lot of fun to follow on their individual journeys, and I'm really glad that this is a dual-POV told tale. The book is packed full of mystery, adventure, romance and magic that keeps the reader engaged and unable to put the book down. If you're a past reader of this author's work or a new reader, this is not a Romantasy story to be missed in 2024.

Jasalyn is a morally complex heroine who we endured a horrific kidnapping and torture at the hands of Mordeus, the false king. Jas's vulnerabilities and fears broke my heart as we witness her feel trapped into a life that she does not want. Her need for vengeance added an edge to her softness that I loved, and I found myself really intrigued by the lore of the magical ring that grants Jasalyn the 'kiss of death.' At the root of her actions is Jas's need to no longer feel afraid in her own skin and her surroundings, and it was a joy to watch her story unfold throughout her point-of-view. I love the bonds that she makes along the way and the sense of assurance that grows within herself. I'm very eager to see where Jasalyn's story will lead in the second and final instalment in this duology. Felicity was an unexpected delight that I absolutely adored. I still find much of her character to be a mystery as she spend the majority of her point-in-view as she pretends to be Jasalyn, however I very much enjoyed the snippets of her personality that shine through and I cannot wait to see where her story will lead. Felicity is fierce and determined in her role throughout the story, however she also possesses a softness and gentleness that acted as the perfect balance in her personality. It broke my heart as we ultimately watch Felicity fall for a man that doesn't know the true her, and that ending... wow. The longing and pining was written to perfection, and I need book two ASAP to know what happens next.

Beneath These Cursed Stars is not a love-triangle as both main characters have their own budding love interest. I couldn't possibly pick a favourite between Kendrick and Misha. Kendrick's loyalty and selflessness are unparalleled. His "who did this to you" moment had me kicking my feet and screaming, and I loved how he truly saw Jasalyn for who she was from the beginning. Kendrick's support and belief in Jas as she is continuously faced with her trauma and PTSD from her past quickly cemented him as a favourite of mine, as I believe many readers will also feel by the end of the book. To my understanding Misha is present during Brie's duology, and now I know I have to go back and read these books after falling in love with him in this one. Misha's cheeky nature and playful arrogance was such a joy to read as he offered much-needed humour during stressful situations. His commitment to his people and role as the Wild Fae King was admirable, and you get this true sense of love and respect from his peers. Misha's want for a true and honest love tugged at my heartstrings, and I truly hope that he and Felicity come out of their betrayal stronger than ever in book two. Please Lexi Ryan... I need to see their happily ever after.

That ending took me by complete surprise and I know I'm going to go insane waiting for book two after that cliffhanger. Beneath These Cursed Stars was unputdownable and thrilling from beginning to end. I cannot wait to see where this story leads in the conclusion to this magical and spellbinding duology.

Thank you to Hodderscape and NetGalley for the DRC to read and review prior to release day.

I rated the book 3.5 stars. The main reasons for deducting stars are that I didn't enjoy the dual perspectives and the romances felt too rushed for my taste. However, if these things won't bother you, I highly recommend this book as everything else is amazing!

"Beneath These Cursed Stars" is an enchanting novel with a perfect blend of Fantasy and Romance. It encompasses all the elements that make popular books in these genres so appealing, betrayal, gorgeous Fae love interests, and a shadow-wielding hero (although we don't get to see much of Brie in this story, however, she is the hero of the main series).

The story follows dual leads Felicity and Jas, with two plotlines told through each lead's point of view. The story is packed with romance, mystery, and intrigue that keep you hooked until the very end. While it's not necessary to read the entire series, this book contains major spoilers for the previous books, so it's essential to keep that in mind.

The story's pace is a slow burn, but it keeps you engaged until the final chapters, leaving you eager to find out what happens next. It feels like this book is just the start of a much bigger story. However, if you're not a fan of cliffhangers, it's best to wait until the entire series is out.

I normally prefer to have just one lead when a story is written from a first-person perspective, but I found myself excited to read both characters' stories. Both plotlines have a sense of danger, risk, romance, and the occasional betrayal. The Characters' inner turmoil and struggle make them all the more endearing. However, the romances felt a bit rushed at times, especially Felicity's, which seemed to happen instantly. It was also difficult to read Jas's romance for several reasons, despite her knowing the love interest from the previous books it still felt rushed and her age combined with her vulnerabilities had the alarm bells ringing from the onset for me.

It's important to note that Jas is struggling with mental health issues, trauma, and PTSD, which is reflected in her decision-making and relationships. This adds a layer of complexity to Jas's character, but it's something to keep in mind before diving into the story.

I think, if you're a fan of Sarah J Maas, you'll love this novel. It reminded me of A Court of Thorns and Roses but aimed at a slightly younger audience. Both Main characters are on the younger side and I would say at least one of the main characters thinks and acts like a teenager, which (I can't believe I have to say this) is refreshing to see in a YA novel.

The writing style is easy to read, and I thoroughly enjoyed the story.

I'd like to thank NetGalley, Hodder & Stoughton for the opportunity to review "Beneath These Cursed Stars" in the form of an eARC. It's important to note that my feedback and thoughts remain unbiased and genuine, and I appreciate the chance to explore this work.

Thank you NetGalley for the chance to read this book

This book was interesting and unexpected.
This book is a spin off of these hollow vows series and I recommend you read the other books before starting this one.

Misha is back and you get to see him more which is awesome because he was one of my favourite from these hollow vows.

This book has dual leads and there are two different storyline and it was cool that each time the pov changed it was a different storyline but they are linked together.

I love how you got to see the inner struggles of both characters and their development as the book went on. They where more confident in themselves and it made the book more interesting to read.

I find it hard to read books where one of the main characters is lying about who they are to the love interest. It makes me anxious so I did struggle more with Felicity’s pov because I adore Misha.

There are lots of twists and turns and it’s cool to see how the events from when Jas was in the dungeon during the last series got explored and you got to see what she went through. It was a emotional experience.

𝙱𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚁𝚎𝚟𝚒𝚎𝚠 📖

“There’s nothing braver than doing the things that scare you.”

First off I would like to say a huge thank you to NetGalley and Hodderscape for this book in exchange for an honest review. I swear when I saw that email in my inbox my entire street heard my scream.

After finishing the These Hollow Vows duology last month there was a hole in my heart that it was over, so when I learnt Jas was getting her own story I was so happy! Then to receive this ARC honestly tears.

But now onto the review because I swear Lexi Ryan has done it again.

This woman is the queen of manipulation because I just never see it coming. I had every idea in my head of how this book was going to go, and she pulled the rug out time and time again and at this point I’m not even mad about it because it’s done so heartbreakingly beautifully that I just can’t help but admire it.

My man Misha also gets his time to shine in this book which is the bit I was secretly looking forward to the most, because I fell completely in love with him and I still very much am.

Let me just say this book is of epic brilliance and I can not wait for the rest of my book besties to read it, because I just have so many thoughts and feeling swirling around in my brain that I just need to get out.

This book releases on 9th July 2024 but you can preordered it now!

Actually wasn’t aware the was set after the These Hollow Vows duology. But as I’ve read that series this was a really nice surprise.
Actually prefer the characters and love interests in this one more.
Lexi Ryan wrote the romantic tension between characters really well. It’s dual perspective but I found I enjoyed and was intrigued by both these characters povs.
A really easy and fast paced read, and I can’t wait for the sequel!

5⭐️

Tldr: yes yes a thousand times yes to this dual-POV / interconnected narrative, with political intrigue and a wonderful cast of characters. Undoubtedly one of my favourite books of the year, and I was so happy to be back in this world. I highly recommend reading this book if you like: excellent writing, fae, lots of #feels, fate, found family, love stories and complex characters.

Very lengthy full review below - listen, don't judge me, sometimes I just can't stop writing when I love something 😂

***

These Hollow Vows/These Twisted Bonds is one of my favourite fantasy duologies of all time - I never stop recommending it (or re-reading it). I always wanted to know more about Jas, so when I got approved for this arc, I literally jumped for joy. And more Misha??? Sign me right up. Well, oh boy, the way this exceeded even my highest expectations!! I knew from the 1st chapter this was going to be a 5 star read.

The plot was one fueled by a need for revenge, a need for safety and a need for hope in the face of fated events. We get dreams and prophecy and that is something I adore in a fantasy novel. The plot was, as a result, one full of twists and turns, and I love the intrigue that comes alongside that.

*there may be some very mild/vague spoilers ahead.*

So, we start off with Jas, and after the events of the first duology she is a shell of who she used to be - using an enchanted ring to not only sneak out of the Palace and assassinate her enemies, but also to numb the intensity of her emotional turmoil. We see the complexity of her character from the offset, and I love complex MC's. It was refreshing to read a different type of fantasy heroine, and I loved the layers of Jas's character. Some may find her fae prejudices frustrating to read, but I found it to be believable and understandable given what occurred in the first duology - personally I would have found it frustrating for her to "let go" of those issues too easily. She is a a character that has suffered and been altered by that sufferring. I think that these complexities make her a really relateable MC, and I was really invested in her story. Whilst it may not be necessary to read the first duology to enjoy this, I think it creates an understanding of Jas's character, and I think it's worthwhile to read it in order to gain full enjoyment out of this book. All in all, I loved Jas - give me a fractured, layered and gritty FMC any day of the week. The representation of mental health struggles through her was incredible, and extremely relateable.

We are also introduced to the character of Felicity, who's fate is inextricably linked with Jas's. Oh Felicity 😭 my heart ached for her - not to spoil anything but I really loved her character. For a multitude of reasons. I enjoyed the mystery surrounding her, and slowly finding out more pieces to the puzzle of who she is in the first portion of the book. I did really enjoy her part of the story, and even though I'm personally not always a massive fan of the 'insta-lust/love' trope, in this instance I think it was written really well. I was worried that this would be one of those cases where I was less interested in one character - however I found both stories to be extremely interesting, captivating and leaving me wanting more.

I really really *really* loved both romances in this book. And I understand why what happened at the end of the book happened, because it's setting up book 2, but gosh darn it my emotions can't take it!!

As far as the MMCs go - yes. Just, yes. *Vigorous head nodding.*
Kendrick, ugh, I simply LOVED this man. I like the selflessness, I like the caring that he shows and I love the 'touch her and die' energy that he gives off.
Misha, well, if I loved him in the first duology I really loved him in this. The smooth talking, the emotion, the loveable touch of arrogance. Once again, just yes.
In addition to some incredible main characters, the side characters are also absolutely wonderful (I love Remme and Natan, I'm going to cry, and Nigel, I actually am crying).
AND I'M SORRY BUT THAT CLIFFHANGER??? I'll have book 2 now please, thank you very much!

Overall, I really really loved this story, the characters, and the interconnectedness whilst still allowing for independent growth of the respective protagonists. I did not want to stop reading and that is always a good benchmark for me as far as judging how much I love a book. I will say I personally would class this as New Adult as opposed to Young Adult.

Thank you so very much to NetGalley and Hodder & Stoughton for giving me the pleasure of reading this arc in exchange for an honest review. And thank you to Lexi Ryan for giving us another enchanting story in this wonderful world.

I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to Hooder & Stoughton and NetGalley for providing me with an e-arc in exchange for an honest review. Rest assured, my thoughts are entirely my own and have not been influenced by others.

Initially, I was unaware that this book was a spin-off; I had anticipated a standalone experience. Consequently, as I hadn't read the second book of the other series, it took some time for me to fully immerse myself in this story and its characters.

However, once I settled in, I found myself drawn in by Lexi Ryan's engaging writing style. There's a fluidity to her prose that makes it easy to get lost in the pages, effortlessly keeping the reader engaged. The characters are well-developed and likable, though I would recommend reading the previous series to avoid potential spoilers and to gain a better understanding of the world-building and characters.

While I mostly enjoyed the storyline, the ending took an unexpected turn that didn't entirely sit well with me. However, upon reflection, I can appreciate the author's choice as it sets the stage for the second book. It appears that this will be a duology rather than the standalone I initially anticipated.

Overall, this was a pleasant and enjoyable read, reminiscent of the vibes found in Twin Crowns. With its well-developed characters, engaging romance, and thrilling action, it offers a delightful blend of fantasy elements.

Well… she did it again! Lexi Ryan never fails to impress.
I absolutely lost myself in this book, you know the kind of book you can’t stop thinking about, desperate to get through your working day so you can just curl up and jump straight back into it? Yeah this book does exactly that.

Being back in this world was so satisfying and although I wouldn’t suggest you desperately need to read These Hollow Vows and These Twisted Bonds before picking this up, it would help the context of some of the characters and their motives and to an extent the world settings and politics.

Coming back to some of the characters from the previous duology was amazing, developing a deeper understanding of them and following them on their own journey. This book focuses on Abriellas sister Jas and her life after her time in the dungeon. It deals with her struggles and trails following her trauma and her journey to accepting (or not accepting) her fate.
However, Felicity’s story is the one that has me begging for the next instalment of this duology the most. A fabulous storyline with a great romance concept, I was just waiting for a moment you know has to eventually happen and then when it hits, you are still utterly devastated, hopeful and emotionally wrecked in the best ways.
One of the best things about this book is you have two romances to follow, equally well put together and tension filled.

The book took twists and turns off of an expected path and I just found it so gripping and fun to read, il be recommending this one for some time.
If you enjoyed These Hollow Vows this is a must, if you haven’t read that yet, you really should but as a guide this book has tropes such as travelling, only one horse, friends to lovers, forbidden love, betrayal and a found family feel in some areas.
Honestly my favourite book of the year so far!
Continuously grateful to the publisher for allowing me to read their books prior to release and eternally grateful to Lexi Ryan for such great reading experiences.

I have very mixed feelings about this book. The storyline is very intriguing, with a dark atmosphere that adds to the tension and helps build sympathy for Jas and Felicity. On the other hand, there are no main events in this volume.

The setup was confusing initially. The story throws you straight in without much explanation, so I felt like I was missing critical information early on. This made me a little disconnected in terms of character relationships plot until about halfway through. I also felt like I was putting a puzzle together, though this works well as a representation of Jas' trauma. Unfortunately, when I finally was fully invested, the book was nearly over. Add the huge cliffhanger to this, and I ended up a bit frustrated. This is a slow burn, and I have a feeling larger events and conflicts will not happen or be addressed until late in the sequel.

That being said, the magic system and political structures show promise. I can't wait to learn more about the different connections between courts, the horrors Mordeus wreaked, the goblin bonds, or the gifts of the fae. These are all hinted at, but I'm hoping book two goes into even more detail as it was fascinating and is a key part for the world building.

The romance between Jas and Kendrick was a little shallow, but the relationship between Felicity and Misha was rewarding and bittersweet. I can't wait to see what happens next!

Overall, a promising first book in a series, but readers should be aware this is not a standalone story - you will be left hanging, but you'll also be craving the next installment. It is The Lord of Stariel meets Powerless meets Six of Crows - if you enjoy darker fantasy or enjoy slow build stories, this could be for you.

𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘏𝘰𝘥𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘤𝘢𝘱𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘕𝘦𝘵𝘎𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘺 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘷𝘪𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘢𝘯 𝘦𝘈𝘙𝘊.

I'm happy to report that Beneath These Cursed Stars falls firmly into the 'staring at a wall until the next book comes out' category of YA fantasy. The wait will be even longer given that this isn't being published until July, but I really only have myself to blame (I see Charlie Bowater art on NetGalley, I hit Request).

Lexi Ryan's prose is incredibly easy to digest and follow, and I'll admit it took me a hot minute to realise this is technically the third book set in this specific fae/elven/goblin/human/mage world. And, naturally, it therefore contains major spoilers for These Hollow Vows and These Twisted Bonds. I'm in the bizarre situation of actively trying to forget everything I've just read (and enjoyed) so that I can turn my attention to the duology in the near future. From my specific experience, you can absolutely dive into Beneath These Cursed Stars with no prior knowledge of the world, but I imagine it's a much richer experience if you've already spent several hundred pages with (some of) these characters. The world building would also be that much more expansive, I imagine, and character cameos will hit harder.

BTCS has two main POVs. We have Jasalyn, a human with faerie ancestry who also happens to be a princess in the Unseelie court (her sister was the MC in These Hollow Vows). Having spent some time in a faerie dungeon when she was younger, she (understandably) holds a lot of animosity towards the species she's destined to transform into on her eighteenth birthday. There's a lot of trauma for her to work through. And then there's Felicity, a fae shifter on the run. Having become embroiled with a bunch of prophecies, she hasn't been able to take her true form in years for fear of her father hunting her down. When the two females cross paths, they become unlikely allies in their mission to bring down an evil king (who may or may not have come back to life) and liberate a realm where humans and fae used to live in harmony before tyrannical leaders established themselves as deity-like figureheads.

I much preferred Felicity's chapters - in part because the romance here was a lot more compelling - and because there was a much more active, driving plot. She had things to do, people to see... faerie kings to seduce. Whereas Jasalyn's chapters just didn't really go anywhere. There was a lot of talk, and not a whole lot of doing. Her relationship with the MMC also felt a little rushed because the foundations of said relationship were built off-page (unless this was covered in These Hollow Vows, in which case I can only apologise).

This one is definitely for fans of The Cruel Prince and ACOTAR. From courtly intrigue to unique magic systems, it's got a little bit of everything.

Lots of exciting threads are plucked towards the end of the book, so I'm really excited for the sequel!

3,5*

Thank you Hooder & Stoughton and NetGalley for providing me an e-arc in exchange for an honest review. My review is my own and not influenced by others.

First of all, I didn’t know this was a spin off; I thought it would be a standalone. And since I haven’t read book two of the other series, it took me a while to get into this story and characters.

I liked the writing style a lot, Lexi Ryan has a pleasant writing style that makes you keep reading. It is easy to pick up this book and keep reading because of it. The characters are well developed and likeable. The world building has already been set in the other series so I suggest that you read those books first to avoid spoilers, but also to know the world building and characters first.

I liked the storyline for the most part, the ending took a turn which I didn’t like but I can see why the author chose it because it gives a setting for the second book. I believe this will be a duology like her other series instead of the standalone I thought it would be at the beginning of this book.

Overall, a pleasant and enjoyable read with vibes as Twin Crowns with well developed characters, romance, action and fantasy elements.

I have read These hollow Vows and These twisted bonds and really loved them! So now to be chosen as an ARC reader the spin- off series is amazing and that book did not disappoint!

This book follows two separate people Jasalyn and Felicity. Jasalyn is the human sister and princess of Queen Brie, which we have met in the previous books. Felicity is part of a rebel group and can shift her appearance to look like a carbon copy of another person and get some of their memories.
Both of their lives become intertwined when Jasalyn decided to join the rebel group to help stop a resurrected Mordeus and Felicity takes her place so no one realises the princess is missing.

The world building was amazing again and everything was well explained. To see the aftermath of what Jasalyn went through in the previous series and her feelings how she deals with it was well done.
Yes there is also love in this his book. Both of the FMC’s get their own man.

Now to the question do you need to read the previous series before you read Beneath these Cursed Stars? I personally think yes you should. It helps you get a grasp on the other characters like Brie or Mordeus and it will help you understand it so much better!

thank you netgalley and hodderscape for a review copy!
This is an amazing fantasy book for anyone who loves fae! I really loved the characters in this book and found them interesting throughout. The plot was good but it was slow at times, I definitely want to find out what will happen next as it was a great introduction to a new storyline!

I LOVED THIS BOOK SO MUCH!

Thank you Netgalley for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

I'm not going to lie - I scrambled to request this book when I saw Lexi Ryan, I didn't even realise it was in the same world and a 'spin off' to the other serious. But WOW I loved it. I loved the Characters. I loved Jas and Felicity, I loved the concept and the way the story unfolded.

I loved the ROMANCE - I didn't realise how much I love a slow burn until this book, but I do... I love it!. I'm really excited to see what happens with Felicity, I'm looking for ward to more of Jas/Misha....I JUST CAN NOT BELIEVE WE GOT LEFT WITH A CLIFFHANGER.

Ok I can believe it - I JUST DON'T WANT TO WAIT.

An excellent start to what will be another excellent couple of books from Lexi Ryan - I'll be recommending this to everyone so we can all cry at the cliffhangover together - misery loves company!! :)

Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for gifting me this arc in exchange for an honest review. 4.5 stars
Beneath These Cursed Stars is Lexi Ryan's new romantasy novel. I was really looking forward to reading this and I was not disappointed!
The storyline follows two heroines, Jasalyn and Felicity, to whom I quickly grew attached, in a quest to save the world. The novel is well-constructed, engaging, and I was gripped from the very first pages. The only thing you should keep in mind is that despite the exiting premises, little action and adventure is present. The narration, in fact, heavily focuses on the romantic entanglement of the two protagonists. So if you're in it for the adventure, I think you might get disappointed. But the romance part of the novel is also great and the love interests are swoon-worthy 😍.
Can you read this book without having read the first duology? Yes, I think you can, although you might feel at times disoriented, with some gaps in your understanding of the story and of the worldbuilding, and I'm sure you would enjoy it more if you had read also These Hollow Vows.

Overall, not a very creative or unique story, but it was very well executed and engaging. Most importantly, the writing was exquisite
Can't wait to read the sequel!

I struggled with this one quite a bit. I found myself not really wanting to pick it up and had to force myself to read it.

It was nice to return to the world from These Hollow Vows and get a look-in on how those characters are doing. I enjoyed learning more about Jasalyn, who is a complex and interesting character. This story really reminded me of the classic switch story (Like Twin Crown, The Princess Switch, etc. etc.)

I feel that a lot of the plot of this book, is just setting up the events of the next one - and while it got significantly more interesting in the last 20%, there was nothing that really gripped me. I think the next book will likely be a lot more action-packed, now that we have established the plot, and I will likely keep reading, but I wish there had been a bit more going on.

I loved These Hollow Vows by Lexi Ryan, it was a brilliant fantasy duology.
So was eager to return to the world and explore more of the realms and characters in this spin off.

I'd say you definitely need to read the previous duology to fully understand what is going on, as it's been written as if you are familiar with the world and what's previously taken place.

Ryan has continued to enhance the world building, it was enjoyable to visit both old and new realms within her world. The characters were equally as compelling, Ryan provided a good mix of diverse characters that intrigued you, made you like them but ultimately made you unsure if you should ever really trust them.

The duel pov was brilliant, I personally love getting the perspective of multiple characters so this for me was hit.

The Jacalynn and Kenrick story was good, the slow reveals kept me turning those pages. But I found myself more interested in the Felicity and Misha narrative, I'm intrigued to find out more about her backstory and see how their relationship will develop in the next book.

The plot moved at a good pace and it was a a action packed fantasy read, filled with schemes, plots, betrayals and heartbreak.
Oh and a kicker of a Cliffhanger ending.
I can not wait to read the next installment.

Thank you NetGalley for the eARC

That plot twist had me crawling up the walls what on earth! I need the next book immediately. Multiple plot twists some unexpected. I really liked the multiple POVs too between the two FMCs. After the first duolgoy with Brie's character, I was interested to see Jas' story. This played out so well and I can't wait to see what happens next.