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.