I REALLY REALLY loved this book. The world building and characters are so well thought out, very realistic and it sets the ground for an epic series which I can't wait to dive into in the next book (please don't make us wait too long!). Lyr is a brilliant FMC and we witness so much growth and character development, you can't help but love her. The love triangle is brilliant and I am totally invested in finding out how this will all play out.
I don't want to give too much away but concept, plot, characters, dialog, pace, action, character development and growth are all spot on. Massively enjoyed this one and genuinely can't wait for the next book. It will not disappoint fans of the genre!
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my review copy, all opinions are my own.

Summary

Overall rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5

Spicy rating: 🌶️ 1/5

Fluff rating: 💖💖 2/5

Honestly I don’t know where to begin with this book. Frankie you absolutely knocked it out of the park with this one. Your best yet, hands down. I’d read your grocery list at this point if you published it and know it would slap!

The political undercurrent to this story is powerful and had me on edge the whole book. It was basically none stop action. Twist and turns that had me panting and left me unable to put this book down for 3 days. I felt like I could barely take a breath waiting for the next event to unfold.

The character growth and development was beautiful throughout. The angst and pining was never ending and such sweet sweet torture! We love a slow burn.

This is the start of an epic series and not one to be missed!!

Thank you again Frankie for the severe book hangover I’m now suffering. I genuinely feel I may perish waiting to find out what happens next but if your books are in the next life I’ll be happy to continue reading them there!

This book did not disappoint! If you're loving forbidden romance, broody characters and an angsty/tense writing style this one is for you.
The plot was thought through well and I enjoyed the writing style - very well done for a debut novel!

Wowowowwow what a book! Not my usual novel genre but it’s always fun to step out of your comfort zone and try a new reading genre and you might find up finding something you really love! I absolutely love the storyline and how our main character trains and fights for her powers and finds her own strength and love along the way!

How have I not read this sooner?! World building is fantastic, the characters are complex, the main plot has the potential to be epic!

There is little to no spice, and I don’t miss it as it would not fit in the story at this point. The explanation is sometimes lacking for some terms but as the story continues it’s there between the lines:)

Onward!

Forbidden romance, dark and broody, tense, angsty, it’s a really good debut novel. The plot is interesting and engaging and the themes explored are great. Family, loyalty, strong FMC. I definitely recommend giving this a go.

Title: Daughter of the Drowned Empire by Frankie Diane Mallis

Release Date: August, 1st, 2024

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Stars

In this stunning debut, "Daughter of the Drowned Empire" transports readers to the intricate world of Bamaria, where 19-year-old mage Lady Lyriana Batavia navigates a treacherous political landscape and forbidden magic.

As third in line to the Seat of Power, Lyr faces the oppressive rule of the Lumerian Empire, where the Emperor dictates the use of magic and punishment for those who disobey. With family secrets and rebel forces looming, Lyr embarks on a perilous journey, forced to train as a warrior without magic.

Alongside Lord Rhyan Hart, a forbidden love interest, Lyr must navigate danger, sacrifice, and the complexities of her heart to save her family and her country.

What I Adored in this book:

* Rich Worldbuilding: The book offers a vast and layered world, filled with intriguing themes like political intrigue, magic, prophecies, and mysteries.

* Engaging Themes: Themes such as power, family loyalty, and sacrifice are expertly woven into the narrative, adding depth to the story.

* Romantic Angst: Despite not typically enjoying love triangles, the romantic subplot between Lyr, Tristan, and Rhyan was filled with all the angst and feels, making it a compelling aspect of the story.

* Compelling Plot: The plot kept me hooked from beginning to end, with rebel forces, an invading army, and family secrets adding to the tension and excitement.


I'm eagerly awaiting the next book to see how the love triangle unfolds and to delve deeper into the captivating world Mallis has created!

Thank you to The Publisher Hodder & Stoughton | Hodderscape ,The Author Frankie Diane Mallis & NetGalley for an advanced reader copy (ARC) in exchange for my honest review.

5/5 stars! I love this book so much and was very excited to see the new cover design. There is something magical about the combination of lore and world-building in this series. The FMC is strong and resilient and the MMC is everything "friends to enemies to maybe lovers" you need. Rhyan is so broken from his past but will do anything to protect her. Looking forward to continuing the series with the new covers.

I received an advance review copy for free through NetGalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Daughter of the Drowned Empire

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5

Three sisters who are bonded by a deep dark secret regarding forbidden magic.

A stunning debut novel full of immersive, engaging characters with complex motives.
A dark brooding romance, intriguing politics and a warrior school….
So many fantasy troupes expertly pulled off.