Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review The Ragpicker King. I absolutely loved this book. It was a really amazing sequel to The sword catcher.
This book sucked me in from the first chapter, the twist and turns had me gasping. The world building was phenomenal. The politics were just wow.
So this book is months after where the sword catcher leaves off and your back in to that political intrigue that is just so good.

Like a lot of books there were some parts that were predictable but that did not take away from the book. I still thoroughly enjoyed it.
I loved the romance, the stakes, the plot and the world building. It was all done so well. I can’t not wait to see what happens next

I really enjoyed the first in this series; swordcatcher. My review at the time centred around the book being aimed at adults but much of the novel still seemed to be YA. Ragpicker King is much the same; it is slow, methodical, and gives the feel that it is leading to something epic. The Ragpicker King is not a bad book, I just wish that the pacing was increased and that more happens. I can see what Clare is doing, she is weaving an intricate world of magic, royalty, criminality, love and greed. Trying to bring all this together into a seamless storyline is no easy thing to do. I love the characters and the potential of this series I am hooked in now and will see it through to the end.

Absolutely fantastic, everything I wanted and didn’t know I needed. Cassandra Clare never fails to entertain and I will always return for everything she writes. Can’t wait to see where she heads next

The Ragpicker King is the second book in Cassandra Clare’s The Chronicles of Castellane series. This new fantasy trilogy takes place in a dangerous world full of royalty, crime and magic. Whilst I was nervous to see how Cassandra Clare wrote adult fantasy outside of her Shadowhunter world, but I’m pleased to say that her writing in this book and Swordcatcher is as addictive as ever!

This sequel follows directly on from the dramatic ending of Swordcatcher. We are once again reunited with Lin, Kel and Conor as they face new challenges and threats. I won’t go into any spoilers, but I will say that I think the pacing and plot greatly improved in this sequel. I found it quite hard to get into the first Swordcatcher book because there was lots of slow world-building, flashbacks and changes in POV. That isn’t to say that I didn’t appreciate these elements as well, they are essential for creating a good world and strong characters, but I like that you can get more immersed in the current story in this book. The plot is rich and complicated, but the characters are still at the heart of the story.

I was lucky enough to attend a talk with Cassandra Clare when Swordcatcher first came out and I have to say that she seems to be completely in love with this story and the world. Hearing her talk about the magic system, the criminal underworld and the relationships in the book (both romantic and platonic) made me love it even more. I can tell that she’s only grown to love this series more with time. I just hope that this means she won’t be too cruel to our main characters. I know she is a master at writing angst and tragedy, so I am both excited and scared to read the final book in the trilogy!

I would recommend this book if you’re a fan of political intrigue, intricate magic systems with clear rules and strong characters. If you liked her other books, definitely give this a go but be prepared for a more mature writing style and a little less romance.

4.5 ⭐
Following three months after a harrowing ending to the first book, this book had a heavy emphasis on the political manoeuvring of the world, with their kingdom on the brink of war, and with the royals and nobles trying to ignore the implications of what happened, the only way royalty does - through over the top and fabulously extravagant parties. Overall, the book was a fun and engaging read for a second book in the series.

I loved that it did not follow that formulaic way most adult fantasy books go, (they either have a way too complicated world building, or it turns too smutty, which to each their own) but rather was a tasteful combination of the two. it had an amazing blend of simple enough world building and plot development to keep you hooked, but with a smidge of romance to keep you from being tired of the political manoeuvres of the world.
I hope she takes her time with book three and gives herself, and the book, the time and patience they both deserve.

Thank you to Netgalley and Pan Macmillan for providing me with an early edition of the digital copy of The Ragpicker King in exchange for an honest review.

Loved this, Cassandra Clare on top form! Such a fantastic sequel with incredible world-building and character development. Can't wait for the next one - this is such an under-rated adult fantasy series!

I have to admit I love Cassandra Clare and every single book of hers I have loved, I always fall in love with the characters, the world building and her beautiful writing. This second installment has continued to wow me and I love the twisty intrigue where I never know what will happen next. I also adored seeing all of the characters grow (with the romance having me on the edge of my seat). I can't wait to see what happens next, but for anybody who loves fantasy I can't recommend this series enough.

The Ragpicker King is an incredible continuation of a series that has quickly become one of my all-time favourites. After falling completely in love with the world and characters in Swordcatcher, I was thrilled to dive back into the intricacies of this rich and captivating universe. And once again, the story did not disappoint.

What I really appreciated in this sequel was the deeper exploration into the world’s politics and the fallout from the events of the first book. From the very first page, I was hooked by the intertwining perspectives and storylines of the various characters. There’s a wonderful complexity to this series, with characters who each have their own agendas, and the constant scheming kept me on the edge of my seat. The twists and turns were relentless, and many of them caught me by surprise.

One of the highlights for me was getting to see more of the world beyond Castellane. This added so much depth to the story, enriching our understanding of not just the opposing countries, but also the mysterious Ashkar. This expanded world-building took the narrative to a whole new level and made the stakes feel even higher.

What really stands out to me about this series is how invested I am in both the plot and the characters. I’m typically someone who gravitates more toward the storyline, but here, the character development is so compelling that it’s impossible not to care deeply about what happens to them. Seeing how the relationships evolve throughout the book added a layer of emotional depth that was truly satisfying. The characters are flawed, complex, and undeniably real.

Now, I’m eagerly awaiting the next book, desperate to see what twists and turns are in store. If you loved the first book, The Ragpicker King is a must-read – and if you haven’t started the series yet, I can’t recommend it enough!

Thank you to Pan Macmillan and Netgalley for this early copy to review.

I feel the need to preface my review by saying that the Chronicles of Castellane are my first Cassandra Clare series and that I am not a regular fantasy reader: I stumbled upon these Chronicles by chance, my interest piqued because I live in Provence, not far from the actual town of Castellane which has inspired the setting of this tale.

The Ragpicker King is the second installment in Clare's political epic set in a world of power struggles, royal marriages of convenience, small kingdoms fighting for greater domination, rigid social hierarchy and great adventures. The story picks up three months after the tragic and gruesome ending of the first book, The Sword Catcher. The main trio, Prince Conor, his sword catcher Kel and healer Lin, remain at the heart of the series and occupy most of the centre stage although other characters are given their chance to shine and develop, too. Clare's careful and detailed worldbuilding in the first tome is at work again in the first half of The Ragpicker King, giving room to more depicting and ambiance writing as Castellane welcomes Prince Conor's new fiancée from faraway. In the second half of the novel, the action - finally! I must admit I was growing impatient - picks up and Clare's talent for writing suspenseful scenes is put to work.

Those invested in the romantic relationships set up in The Sword Catcher will be delighted to find that all the angst and lust come to fruition in The Ragpicker King. Clare comes through for the romantasy fans and delivers several passionate scenes that were highly anticipated. My only slight complaints would be that the kissing scenes seemed to follow a rather formulaic recipe (down to the sucking of the bottom lip to finish with) and that I would've liked seeing some more gender role reversals with women taking more of the sexual action into their own hands rather than being "taken care" of by the men but I suppose the author is catering towards a women-dominated audience who may prefer this set-up (I am also not much of a romance reader so not used to the generally accepted codes of spicy scene write-ups).

A word of caution for those who may have thought, like me, that the title would be an indication of the overall importance of a character: Andreyen, the ragpicker king himself, remains mostly absent from the story, popping up here and there, never quite making it to the foreground, until the very end of the novel. I was hoping for a significantly increased presence throughout the book but the title is an indication of a major revelation in the final pages - with all the ramifications in the books-to-come, no doubt. This was a bit of a letdown, I must admit.
Looking beyond the title, however, this second Chronicles of Castellane novel was a delight to read. I loved the political intrigue and its many intracies, Prince Conor's growth, Lin's first steps in her self-proclaimed Goddess Reborn journey (and the imposter syndrome she struggles with), the spycraft, the conspiracies against the kingdom, the injection of Kutani culture through the arrival of Princess Anjelica, the twists and shadows cast over previously accepted certainties, and also, by the end of the book, the shattering of what we, readers, felt were strong, unbreakable foundations, opening up new directions and other paths to explore in future books.

As someone from Provence and lover of her home region, I wish to thank the author for the abundance of nods to our Provençal culture and land. I found myself smiling every time I came across something, no matter how small, just like I did in the first book: from the descriptions of the garrigue scrublands to the colours of the historical flag of Provence for Castellane's colours to details like food (I found myself ordering a gibassié at the bakery while I was reading the book) and flora. I'm very appreciative of the great amount of care and research went into weaving the tapestry of this Provence-inspired fantasy setting.

I can come up with no better conclusion than to say that the only major letdown of this epic novel is the wait for the next installment.

"People dying of thirst, when they were given water, sometimes drank until they died, unable to assuage the need that had become part of them. She could understan it now, how you could have something and still not have enough of it, ever."

* Many thanks to NetGalley & Pan MacMillan for an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review. *

So good! Can’t believe I got a ARC for this as the sword catcher was one of my favourite books! This isn’t far behind it. Absolutely loved it.

I was in love with the Shadowhunters world that she created, so when the Sword Catcher was announced and that it will be a set in a new world, naturally I was excited and was not surprised that the book delivered AND more!
The Ragpicker King, as book two of The Chronicles of Castellane, was a wonderful continuation of the story and solidified for me the amazing qualities for storytelling and the world building of Cassandra Clare no matter the world she chooses.
Intriguing politics, espionage that keeps you on edge, and a beautifully built romance between the characters that makes you get through all the emotions with them.
As I mentioned, the writing style vividly brought to life everything around you with such a detailed description, like you were there with them. At moments, a little too descriptive but not to the point of bothering you, and for me, that was part of the distinguished charm of both books of the series.
As always, my brain can't refrain from picking a favorite, and for me, this time, it was Kel. All the characters were so complex with their emotions and secrets that made them what they are, but Kel, I felt closest to my heart. And the plot twists were made in such a way that you absolutely didn't see them coming.
Love the series and definitely will follow what's coming next for them!

I very much enjoyed Swordcatcher last year and was super excited when I got the ARC for this!
It was a bit of a rocky start at first because the world and the relationships between the nobles are quite complex. I really think this would benefit from a map and a dramatis personae or at least a recap of the first book.
CC throws a lot of this world at us in the first ten percent and even throughout you can’t go very long without one nation or the other being casually referred too. I had a hard time keeping them all apart and on top of that who has relations to what nations and so on.
This is also coming from someone who reads and enjoys complex high fantasy. In my opinion the world is very interesting, however the way we’re introduced to it is a weaker point of the book.

That’s really the only complaints I have. Apart from this the writing is compelling and kept me turning the pages. The mysteries are fun and slowly, satisfyingly unravel throughout the book.
My favourite thing about this series are the characters and their relationships. They feel real and flawed and their interactions are frustratingly believable.
CC does yearning really well and there is. so. much. yearning!

This is turning out to be a series I cannot wait to continue even though I wasn’t a big fan of the author’s other work. Has Cassandra Clare even heard of middle book syndrome!?

Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the eARC!

The courtly intrigue in this series is top tier with twisty politics and scheming. A brilliant second instalment with some great character development and some tender romances forming between characters. Conor and Lin have my whole heart! The tension and yearning are spectacular 👌🏼

Thank you Pan Macmillan and Netgalley UK for the great opportunity of reading this arc!

5/5

“There is no blackmail in politics […] Only bargaining.”

The Ragpicker King is a great political thriller, with elements of fantasy and romance, not to mention espionage. The inherent political nature of this series has properly surfaced with this second novel of the series, and has created an exhilarating read. Something always happens and manages to keep the reader on edge, and even when one believes that the situation is fully presented, the plot twists show up completely unexpectedly, shattering all expectations thus far. The novel does not present only the internal political battles and struggles of Castellane, but also international relations, diplomacy and conflicts, warfare and genocide, and they all connect with one another exceedingly well. The political world building is done rather subtly, and doesn’t eclipse the dramatic action.

The fantasy elements and lore are further developed in this book, and I have enjoyed how they have gradually evolved to being the centre piece of the narrative by the end. Part of the lore is deeply inspired by Judaism, and I have enjoyed their subtle inclusion within the universe building even more so than in the first instalment.

Regarding characters’ development; Conor and Lin are the highlights in that aspect. Both of them finally fully embrace whom they really are by the end, and the mirroring of their timelines is so satisfying that it enhances their romance. The two are both similar and different, and complement one another beautifully. The burning yearning between the two is intoxicating.

Between the prince and the goddess, Kel stands out as the action hero, the spy, the detective, the actor on whose shoulders the work behind the scenes falls. Throughout the entire story, Kel stands out as an emotionally complex individual, who finds compassion and acceptance for others while still maintaining his dignity and purpose. Kel’s journey represents the antithesis of Con and Lin, for he doesn’t have to embrace whom he is, he has to constantly find out which mask benefits him more, and eventually learn whom he is when stripped of all his secrets. The unfolding of his character has been a true delight. His relationship with Antonetta was passionate, seductive and sensual, and it ends with a spark which burns even more powerfully. The plot twists regarding their relationship have been equally tormenting and entertaining. I look forward to them moving forward, in their brand new dynamic.

Andreyen’s plot twist near the end hadn’t been what I was expecting at all, but retrospectively I realise that hints were dropped here and there, and yet I was blind to them. The structure of the story had been extremely well planned for his character, taking me by surprise the most.

Aron’s character was an intriguing addition, and I look forward not only to how his relationship with Lin will develop, but also to how he will exercise his authority as prince.

The prose is exquisitely beautiful; Cassie’s usage of metaphors in her descriptions is very glamorous, embroidered, graceful and elegant. Sensual as well.

Structurally, because the politics of this book are extremely entwined and ingrained in the narrative, I found that the writing style had been well-inspired and executed, quite suitable for a thriller. Usage of sentences or short phrases, always to the point, no word being used without purpose. It created an overall anticipation and awareness that the puzzle is still not complete.

The insertion of multiple points of view had been a nice surprise, and aided in the deception of the reader, creating the illusion that we know more than Lin and Kel.

Last, but definitely not least, the sex scenes were tastefully executed, elegant and sultry, adding more spice to the dynamics of both couples.

Certainly looking forward to the third book!

Prince Connor is fresh off the horror of his engagment party, and must make plans to survive the inevitable oncoming war.
Lin has claimed she is the Goddess, now she must back this claim up.
Kel is keeping more and more secrets and having to balance this with working as the swordcatcher.

Prince Conner is still reeling and feeling guilt over the attack and massacre of his engagement party but wastes no time in securing another betrothal alliance to fend off war.
Kel is balancing his role as Swordcatcher and hiding more and more secrets from Conner in his secret finding for the Ragpicker King.
Lin has claimed she is the Goddess returned and she must prove herself.


I loved the first book but felt this was even stronger than the first. Now the main world building is done we get to get deeper into the politics and layout of court and the charter families. I really enjoyed the different political machinations and scheming and complicated scenarios they had to manage their way out of. Its just so cleverly written it feels so indepth with its layers and multiple plot lines intertwining, I can’t wait to see the conclusion,

Also the most important part of this book. The yearning. Oh my, all three them spend time yearning and its palpable. Its so good and made me need to keep reading and devouring this book.

I feel we really define Kel and Lin as main characters here and lose a little of Connor but it’s woven beautifully together I dont even mind. Absolutely recommend picking this series up!

4.5 stars

This series has a strange hold over me. Despite another long book where not that much happens, I found it hard to put down and I was thoroughly invested by the time the plot finally started moving (in the last like, 100 pages). Some of the shine has worn off since Sword Catcher, hence the half star drop, but I am still really looking forward to the next one.

The Ragpicker King has all of the strengths and weaknesses of the first book, so if you liked that one will you probably enjoy this too, but if you didn't like it I don't think this will change your mind.

Everything is described in detail, almost too much. While this contributes to the vivid and compelling setting, a lot of the descriptive language can get pretty repetitive (the word tesserae is used often enough to stick out, and all the clothing seems to be made of either silk, velvet or satin. I would also like a bit less focus on clothes and furniture, and some more actual worldbuilding - we still don't know much about the people of Castellane's religious beliefs, for example (except for the Ashkar).

There are two main POV characters, Lin and Kel, with short segments from other character's POV in between chapters. You can see Clare clearly struggles with this - three separate times Kel is present for an intimate conversation between two other characters, says he should go, and is told to stay by one of the other characters for no good reason. And then Kel hangs around uncomfortably while the other two have an emotionally charged moment. It's hilarious.

I love the characters. Their interactions and relationships are complex and captivating. However, Andreyen and his gang are kind of useless? Most of the plot advancement, especially in the first two thirds of the story, is brought about by Prosper Beck or the villains while Kel and co stand around looking shocked. My biggest hope for the next book is that Kel and the others become less passive and actually accomplish some things.

Finally, I really enjoyed both romantic subplots in this. The angst is very good, no notes.

Looking forward to book three.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the digital ARC.

I really enjoyed the first book, and I feel that the second book has fallen to the middle book curse it was just ok. I am however very much looking forward to the third book . Thank you for my advanced copy of this book.

This did suffer a little from middle book syndrome but the revelations of people’s identities and the denouement to the FINAL end of the tension buildup was well worth it. The world-building and plot and characters continue to be awesome, but one of the main romantic relationships just makes no sense at all and seems to be based on just attraction. In any case, can’t wait for book 3

I was excited for this second book, and I really liked it but it fell down for me with the characters unfortunately.

Thank you, to the publisher for my ARC. I may retry this one in the future. This sequel unfortunately did not hold my interest and felt a bit drawn out I still liked the characters but lost interest at 20% .