So the first half of the book is VERY slow 🥲 and filled with lots of world building and descriptions. Honestly not much was happening but I knew it was being set up for something good!

But before the good stuff I was SO annoyed at Morgan 😡 Girl could’ve saved herself a LOT of trouble if she grew a spine and told someone about her situation (btw f u Florian) ✋🏻😭 she’s naive, unsure and too trusting of others.
I will say that by the end of this book she was standing up for herself and getting stronger so I’m super excited to see where the next 3 books go with her character development.

The last half of the book hit me and WOW I was hooked - and that cliffhanger ending ??? 🤯🤩 I am immediately starting book 2 because WTF 😅
I loved loved loved the second half of the book. It was filled with action, creepy atmosphere, magic and creatures. Briar knows how to write so well!

I would definitely recommend this book if you’re into:
- a slow burn romance
- enemies to lovers
- magical creatures in a fae world
- action
- coming into her powers
- “who did this to you?” 🥵🔥
- touch her and 💀
- princess and bodyguard
- betrayal
- forced proximity
- taking care of her when she’s injured

Queen of Roses is the kind of paranormal story that captivates and keep you on the edge of your seat from the very beginning. While I don't want to give anything away, I will say that this is a story filled with characters you will love and hate. There's lover's, friends, foe's, enemies, death, suspense, betrayal, physical abuse, backstabbing, plotting, revenge, protectiveness, anticipation, steamy scenes, power plays and so much more. I have to say that from the very moment Kairos Draven and Princess Morgan first met. I was hoping something would develop between them and this book leaves readers with one heck of a cliffhanger. When it comes to Princess Morgan's brother King Arthur, he has no limits that he won't go to when it comes to getting what he wants. He's clever in the worst of ways and I hope that when the time comes, he gets exactly what he deserves. Kaye is young but I hope he doesn't let his brother turn him against his sister and the love they have for each other. I absolutely loved Lancelet and I think I know how things ended with her but I'm hoping that somehow, she fought her way through the children. I wasn't prepared for the ending as Vesper had me totally fooled. However, I'm definitely looking forward to reading the next book in this series because everything feels like it's just beginning. There's so much that happen in the past that were finding out about and while powerplays are being made, there is something or shall I say someone that seems more powerful and deadly that has been unleashed. I can't wait to read what happens next.

HOLY SHIT. I literally could not stop reading this. It had so many little twists and turns but not overly complicated. I’m about to binge read this series and I’m so happy about that.

"Queen of Roses" by Briar Boleyn is a dark fantasy romance that masterfully combines elements of myth, magic, and romance with a captivating King Arthur retelling infused with a Fae twist. From its intricately woven plot to its compelling characters, this novel delivers an immersive reading experience that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment.

At its core, "Queen of Roses" is an enchanting tale of forbidden love and destiny, featuring an exceptionally slow-burn romance that ignites with the intensity of an enemies-to-lovers trope. Against a backdrop of magic and mythical creatures, the story unfolds with tension, banter, and forced proximity, drawing readers into a world filled with love, friendships, self-discovery, and betrayal.

While the novel excels in world-building, character development, and plot intricacies, some readers may yearn for a bit more fire and spice in certain aspects of the narrative. However, the promise of future developments in the series offers hope for an even more dynamic and engaging story to come. I know I personally cannot wait to get into book 2.

With a cliffhanger ending that leaves hearts racing and minds reeling, "Queen of Roses" succeeds in immersing readers from start to finish. Its dark and twisted fantasy elements are expertly balanced with moments of adventure, action, and unexpected twists, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page.

As the story delves into complex themes and explores the depths of its characters' struggles and desires, it's important to note that "Queen of Roses" may contain triggering content. Readers are advised to check the trigger warnings before diving into this captivating tale.

Overall, "Queen of Roses" is a must-read for fans of dark fantasy romance, offering a mesmerizing journey that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next chapter in the series. With its lush prose, intricate storytelling, and unforgettable characters, this novel is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who venture into its enchanted world.

I want to extend a heartfelt shoutout to the author for granting me the opportunity to dive into "Queen of Roses" as an ARC through NetGalley. It has been an absolute pleasure to explore the captivating world and characters crafted with such skill and imagination. Thank you for entrusting me with this glimpse into your enchanting world.

I was so excited for this book. I love Arthurian stories. I was so excited to see how on earth someone could add fae to it. I was not disappointed at all.

I was surprised to see a new take on Arthur because my experiences with his story have all been he’s the hero of the story. I loved the gender bending of iconic characters it was so well done, and with respect to all readers.

At first I was put off by Draven I swore every time he entered a scene, actually rolled my eyes because how can a man be so gruff. I did like how he didn’t just give Morgan a pass because she was a princess. I believe he really challenged her and she needed it. He began to grow on me in a friendly way by the end. It was nice to see Morgan’s character grow and develop as the novel progressed. I was not expecting to get anxious when she did or feel that swoony feeling when she did. But I was so sold on it.

The world building was so well done too, I didn’t feel lost or bored for a moment. I just wanted to know more, to understand a lot like our MC.

That ending left me with my jaw on the floor. I felt so betrayed I cried A LOT. I cried over the ending of friendships and love. I cried over how it seems like the world as we came to know it was going to change drastically, but I was so excited to jump right into the next book. As my first Briar Boleyn novel I was not disappointed at all. 9/10 I would absolutely read this again and have recommended it to so many friends.

Fantasy is such an iffy genre - it’s either great or eh. I was hesitant on this but WOW. Book 1 of the Blood of Fae series is great. Is it ACOTAR? No. But, it’s still amazing in its own and it’s a far less “complex” world, allowing you to immerse faster but doesn’t take away from the story. Morgan, a princess, has a rotten king of a half brother who wishes her ill as half fae. He sends her to retrieve a sword, Excalibur, with only two guards - one of which is a known hired assassin named Draven.

A different take on King Arthur, filled with fae, different types of magic, a broody MMC and a strong FMC -- really enjoyed it! Perfect for anyone who loves From Blood and Ash + ACOTAR.

Things start out a little bit slow and the world building took me a second to understand, but then everything picks up. I was not anticipating the twists at all. This is a super slow-burn with minimal spice (it didn't need it) but I understand that the spice picks up in the following books.

Thank you to Briar Boleyn and Netgalley for the copy in exchange for my honest review.

I received a copy through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Sadly, I DNF. I wanted to like it but the writing made it so hard to follow. Chapter 1 was good, I felt the flow was easy but then you move onto the next few chapters and it felt all over the place for me. There was a bad job of introducing the characters; I struggled with following on with who was who or who is the new character that was just mentioned. I also did not feel a connection with the characters.

Oh my Lord I loved this book! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I wasn’t sure what this book was going to be like. As a retelling of Excalibur, but with fae, I was certainly curious. The beginning dragged a little bit and Morgan seemed an unlikely FMC. Or timid and boring at least. But, this proved to be a wild ride and I’m so glad I took it!

Thank you Briar Boleyn and Net Galley for the ARC. I’m looking forward to jumping into book two right away!

Oh my goodness. This book is like crack. I am hooked and in need of more. I finished this book in less than 24 hours. I could not put it down, I stayed up all night reading until I couldn't see straight, and then I picked up the book again first thing this morning. I am only pausing on starting book two right now for two reasons. One I am writing this review, and two I have family coming over for early Easter dinner and I am going to be grouchy with them if I have to ignore this book to pay attention to them. (I'm still probably going to start the book before they get here).

Ok onto the a quick plot summary. Morgan, first born and rightful queen of Camelot, yes Camelot, has been sidelined by her cruel and heartless brother Arthur. She has undergone so much heartbreak and pain in her life, and been forced to make herself small. When her brother sends her on a nearly impossible quest, guarded by two men of dubious moral character, she has to confront many truths about her kingdom, her family, her past, and her true self.

Ok so thoughts. I love the banter in this book, funny and witty and sarcastic. World building is amazing and easy to follow. The characters and new and fresh, so it doesn't feel like every other reimagining of Arthurian legend. It's the best take on this for me since reading Mists of Avalon. In terms of romance, we're going through a slow burn, will they/won't they. The foreshadowing is awesome, I did and did not see the ending coming. Five stars. I cannot wait to start book two and will be begging for copies of three and four. Please send me the books NetGalley and Briar Boleyn!!! Please, I'm begging you.

Oh and I received a free copy of this book, and book two, from NetGalley. But I would buy these books for myself and my friends in half a heartbeat!!!

After a streak of abandoning books, I finally found one that gripped me from the get-go! "Queen of Roses" delves into the Arthurian saga with a fresh twist, focusing on Morgan, Arthur's sister, who navigates life in the shadows of Camelot. Her Fae heritage adds depth to her character as she grapples with rejection. Arthur, depicted as a compelling villain, adds tension to the narrative. When Arthur dispatches Morgan on a quest with the mysterious guard Kairos Daven, the plot thickens. Despite Kairos being the main male character, the absence of an overt romantic relationship adds allure, leaving room for a slow-burn dynamic that keeps readers intrigued. The gradual development of both characters is a highlight, especially as Morgan's growth unfolds. Beware the cliffhanger ending, but it only heightens the anticipation for book 2! Can't wait to delve deeper into this captivating world.

In this Arthurian retelling, Morgan Pendragon's future was set out for her long before she could decide her own fate. She's believed to have fae blood and her birthright, as the rightful heir to the throne is taken from her as a child. Her brother. The current King sends her on a mission. To retrieve a fae weapon. All of this whilst in the care of an exquisitely brutish rogue.

My 3.5 star rating is due the following:

1. Morgan, at times, felt way too naive for my liking. And while every story might not have a strong as nails main female character, I guess I expected more.
2. The story in the first half was a bit flat for me. I didn't find myself engrossed until the latter half. Which I might add was quite the read. You almost don't know who to trust and find yourself waiting for the other shoe to drop. I also feel like it was a bit predictable if not similar to other romantasy reads.
3. In addition to the above, I feel sometimes, and this was especially in the beginning, that things were overly described. There were just too many adjectives that I found distracting. I do get world building, but I guess for it to work, it would need to be strategically knitted into the story.
4. Draven. Obviously, I was not going to leave him out. Yes. Yes. I know slow burn and all. However, I do feel like I wish we had one or two chapters from his pov. For 99% of the book, I still felt like I didn't know him much. Until the end, when you get a glimpse.

Thank you to Netgalley and Briar Boleyn for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.

A fun Arthurian retelling where Arthur is evil and our main character is Morgan Le Fay - I've seen this series around the booksta world and thought I would give it a try.

Morgan is a half-fae princess who once was the heir to the throne, but because of her mother's fae heritage, now her brother Arthur sits on the throne and Morgan is destined for the kingdom's version of a nunnery. A new guard, Kairos Draven, joins the court and there is an immediate connection between him and Morgan, although at first, it's very much an antagonistic kind of vibe.

Did I find Morgan naive? Yes, I did, but it makes sense given how sheltered she is, and how brutal Arthur is to anyone who defies him. She is terrified to tell anyone about the things that happen to her, and she also has her little brother to worry about.

This is a very slow burn romance, and I am looking forward to seeing how the relationship between Morgan and Draven progresses through the series.

Queen of Roses by B. Boleyn, published by Starwater Press, is the first book in the Blood of a Fae trilogy.
It's the introduction to a new world where Fae are unwelcome, set like a reverse Camelot/ leaned on King Arthur Saga.
Morgan is a 20 year old half fae with brothers Kaye 11, and Arthur, King.
I just wanted to take a peek in the book, but soon I was intrigued enough to rea the whole book, cover to cover, in one sitting.
It's a dark fantasy romance that deals withe sensitive subject, consider you warned. Next up is Court of Claws. Both books are currently in KU.

Queen of Roses by Briar Boleyn is a modern take on the traditional tale of King Arthur.
Boleyn has switched up the roles with Arthur being the villain and Morgan (his sister) being the good person.
The story begins with Morgan witnessing her mother's death, the writer brushes over Morgan's childhood except to highlight that the King (her father) remarried and each marriage bore a child - Arthur - initially was illegitimate, and Kaye (her younger brother). Since the King's death, Arthur has become ruthless and uncaring. He despises his sister as she has Fae blood running through her and he sends her away (accompanied by two male members of his court) to locate and bring back Excalibur.
The story is very descriptive and slow reading, there are interesting relationships between Morgan and Dervan (one of the men accompanying her) and how Morgan learns to embrace her Fae blood.
The book ends with a great twist, one many won't see coming.

Solid 4 star read that I finish in less than a day. Introduced me to the story of Morgan and I can't wait to read more about her.