I had no idea what to expect going into The Mortal Queen, but I was instantly intrigued by its fresh perspective. Unlike the usual fantasy trope, Aisling’s story isn’t about someone who accidentally discovers powers and is a lowly commoner, stumbling her way through a new world—she’s royalty from the start, bringing a unique and compelling viewpoint.

As an avid enemies-to-lovers reader, I have to admit—I was immediately on Lir’s side, and no one can convince me otherwise! I devoured this book in a single day and am already desperate for the next installment.

The narration was excellent, and Ashley did a fantastic job crafting an elaborate world. Her vivid descriptions of the lands and forests made me feel as though I was experiencing everything right alongside Aisling. I can't wait to see where this journey leads next!

I absolutely LOVE this audiobook and was excited to get to revisit Aisling and Lir through the audiobook after reading the book. The narrator does a fantastic job of bringing the readers into the world of the Fae through this slow, slow, slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers romantasy. This book has it all and is perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas but be ready for world-building. I already cannot wait for the second book!

Slow burn romance. Good start for a trilogy. Looking forward to the rest of the series. Feels like this book was a lot of set up. Narrator did a fantastic job.

I received an arc from netgalley and the publisher.

I really wanted to love this book. The premise was just fresh enough, but the execution was poor. I don't like to leave reviews like this but I DNFed at about 28% of the audiobook because I literally could not take anymore.

I want to thank the publisher and author for this chance to read the book and offer my honest review.

Redundancy and repetition rule this books pages. The words "savage" and "barbarian" struck my ears harshly after the 3rd or second repetitive instances.

The constant rehash of the same direct quotes from the FMCs father were overdone and overstated.

The characters were very flat and the FMCs inside thoughts were absolutely unbearable.

This book was in desperate need of cleaning up before publication. The sheer amount of times names and titles were overused was absolutely overboard. Overuse of direct, narratively historical quotes.

There were multiple instances of words being used incorrectly within the context of sentences. For instance, she calls a stag a female. There are immediate contradictory statements in the first two chapters that made my head spin.

Aside from needing a copyedit to clean up the redundancies and sentences, this needed a sensitivity reader.

I am giving one extra star for the creativity of the premise. I won't be continuing this series, but I do wish all the best as this author grows into her career. Writing is hard and I understand that paying for edits, etc is not always accessible.

I will not be posting this review publicly out of respect for the authors hard work.

I LOVED THIS!! I was so hooked by this book. The writing was so descriptive and I had an amazing time picturing this world. I loved the FMC and the narrator really helped make this experience that much better. LOVED LOVED LOVED!

I truly hope this story gets all the hype it deserves upon release, such an enchanting fantasy tale. Two days of spending all my spare time engrossed in this audiobook and my biggest complaint is that I will never be able to experience this for the first time again! This was my first introduction to Samantha Norbury as a narrator, and she has done a phenomenal job at bringing all of these characters to life! A few name pronunciations could have been more accurate in my opinion, however, her performance of each character was so well executed, and the delivery honestly has me glad I was able to experience the audiobook over the physical words.

Adored how vivid the world-building throughout this story was, and how immersive a realm Metzler has created. The slow burn is just the right level of tension-building and satisfying moments. My opinions of Lir and Aisling aren't fully formed yet, but I think when we reach book 2 and hopefully dive further into what's to come for these characters I'll have my mind fully made.

Thank you so much to NetGalley, Ashley Metzler, and Bookouture Audio for the chance to review this Audiobook ALC

Today, we're examining a newly re-released novel that has been repackaged under a different title and author and is now available as an audiobook. This fantasy story centers on Aisling, a mortal princess who is given to the fae king in marriage to end an eternal feud between their species. As the Queen of the Seelie, Aisling discovers that she may not have been told the whole truth about her enemies. As she learns more about the fae, she begins to question everything she has ever known, including her own identity. This is an adult fantasy novel characterized as a slow-burn romance; however, I must clarify that there is no substantial romance in this book. There are hints of potential romantic tension and the possibility of a love triangle, but ultimately, there is no real wooing or romance present. The focus is on world-building and Aisling's internal struggles. Although Aisling has the potential to be a remarkable character, she feels underdeveloped in this story. There is a sense of indifference, a lot of back-and-forth, and a pervasive self-doubt that diminishes the stakes. While there are battles to the death, the outcome feels predictable as it is foreshadowed from the very beginning. Despite these criticisms, this book still offers a decent reading experience with impressive world-building. The next book in the trilogy will determine whether it is worth continuing.

📚✨ Book Review: The Mortal Queen (The Aisling Trilogy, #1) by Ashley Metzler
Thank you to NetGalley, the author Ashley Metzler, and Bookouture Audio | Second Sky Books for the early access audiobook of The Mortal Queen, beautifully narrated by the incredibly talented Samantha Norbury! 🎧🌟

Now, let’s dive into this enchanting tale! 🌈

🌸 Synopsis
For as long as Aisling can remember, the fae and mortals have been locked in a bitter war. To protect her realm, she has made the ultimate sacrifice: marrying the savage fae king in a desperate bid for peace. But instead of an evil monster, she finds Lir – a king who is alluring, wild, and dangerously perfect. As the wedding approaches, Aisling grapples with her fate while navigating a world filled with magical beasts and deadly enchantments. However, with a brewing connection that feels more than physical, Aisling must ask herself: can she trust Lir, or will her heart's desires set their worlds ablaze? 🔥💔

🎡 My Thoughts
To be honest, this book had its moments. While the slow burn was excruciating at times, and honestly, sometimes felt like I was waiting for a kettle to boil, there was just enough enchantment to keep me flipping those virtual pages! 😂 Because let's be real, when it comes to fantasy, I typically crave a little more spice and romance! 🌶️💖

But here’s the thing: even without that sizzling romance I usually adore, The Mortal Queen still offered a unique and enjoyable experience. 💫 The first person vs. third person narrative switch made it a little tricky to settle into the flow, but once I adapted, I was fully immersed in Aisling's journey.

And can we just take a moment to acknowledge the comparison to authors like Sarah J. Maas? 🙊 That felt like a tall order! While I see the potential for this trilogy to resonate with many YA fantasy readers, it might not quite reach those heights just yet. 🚀

Nonetheless, I do recommend this book to all the fantasy lovers out there who thrive on tales of self-sacrifice, mysterious fae, and blooming transformations. If romance isn’t your top priority, you’ll find the complexities of Aisling's character arc and the moral dilemmas captivating enough! 🌌✨

Overall, I’d rate this a solid 4 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (rounded up from 3.75) for its engaging storytelling and fascinating characters, even if it didn’t quite meet all my preferences in the romance department. 💔

🌟 Final Thoughts
In conclusion, The Mortal Queen is worth a listen, especially for those who favor fantasy with a hint of enchantment rather than a steamy love affair. 🧙‍♀️💞 I can genuinely see this series becoming a favorite among readers who love young adult fantasy. Grab your headphones, and dive into Aisling's world – it just might surprise you! 🎧✨

Happy reading (or listening)! 📖💖

Wow just wow
This hooked me from the first chapter, although I listened to this slower then j normally would due to work. I was so excited when I got an extra 5 mins just to listen to a bit more.

Aisling is a mortal princess promised to the king of the fae Lir.
Asking finds out she’s been told lies her whole life about the fae and releases not all is what she thought it was.
Lie after being once married before realises his mother’s prophecy is tied to Aisling.

This is an extremely slow burn and I loved it. There isn’t a great deal of chemistry yet more curiosity.
They are an arranged marriage so it isn’t going to hit yet and I love that Ashley managed to show that in reality you don’t full that hard that quick.

This finished on a Cliff hanger and I’m gutted because I. Need the next audio book!

Thank you netgalley, Ashley metzler and bookouture audio for the audio arc in exchange for an honest review


⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This book had me hooked right from the beginning. And while I sometimes got a little lost, and the writing wasn’t necessarily the best I really enjoyed it. The characters were likable and I really was invested in their story. I really can’t wait to see where the story continues. I would definitely recommend this story to any romantasy readers. And the narration was very good.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC for an exchange of my honest opinion!

This book had me hooked right from the beginning. And while I sometimes got a little lost, and the writing wasn’t necessarily the best I really enjoyed it. The characters were likable and I really was invested in their story. I really can’t wait to see where the story continues. I would definitely recommend this story to any romantasy readers.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC for an exchange of my honest opinion!

Thank you for the opportunity to read this ARC of The Mortal Queen. This is my honest review, these are only my opinions.

I was surprised that I didn't enjoy this story as much as I thought I would. There were so many 5 star review so I was expecting a book that I literally couldn't put down. But by 60% it felt like a bit of a slog to get to the end.

I enjoyed the world building (although they were traveling for most of the book), I liked that she was something unknown and liked watching that unfold. Ashling denying her feelings for Lir for most of the book really did start to get a little annoying though. I felt like she had more chemistry with some of her guards over her chemistry with Lir.

The use of Gaelic terminology was interesting, but a little confusing at times. But that might have just been because it took me a while to catch on!

We didn't find out what Ashling was until around 70% into the book, she's only had an afternoon worth of practice, but all of a sudden although she doesn't have, 'strength, muscle, or skill, at least she has magic'. Although she nearly burns herself out she is almost arrogant with her new found power which wasn't a vibe.

The narration of the audiobook was really excellent though, the different voices the narrator used were brilliant and brought the story to life more.

Oh wow!!! I am literally obsessed with this one and seriously can’t wait to read more!!! This author and narrator did phenomenal jobs of bringing this high fantasy to life! More often than not these days I find myself DNFing high fantasy because I just find myself not caring or enjoying the story. ABSOLUTELY NOT THE CASE HERE. This was a slow burn through and through! I lovedddd the little morsels we are fed of the main characters romance I can’t wait to see where this story goes and how everything unravels! Thank you to NetGalley for the arc in exchange for my honest review.

The world building was great, and I loved the depiction of the fae. I’m always a big fan of the darker interpretations of fae folk. However, the writing was very repetitive and I felt trapped in the limited and biased view of Aisling. Which was odd in a third person perspective. On top of this ignorance, she was surprisingly arrogant? It was a confusing combination. Also by about 60% in, I grew really tired of Aisling denying her obvious attraction to the king. It was so tiresome. Thank you very much for this ARC!

I have no words! This is the type of Romantasy book that makes me love this genre. I am still very new in this world and this book is it.

It took me a while to get into this book, mainly because when I get a chance to read my Kindle it's near on midnight and I've switched off. This book is so rich with detail, that I took some time to get into the flow, but when I did. Well, it was like fireworks and I devoured this book. I had to stop reading because of work and then I discovered that there was an audiobook and I managed to get my fix and finish it. That ending, I had my heart in my throat when the daggers started to fly. I was so worried that my favourite was hurt, but phew - they weren't. It was crazy once you see the betrayal on both sides. And yet it's Aisling I worried about and another character. She has no idea who she is or how powerful she is. The even better thing is, nor do we! I CAN'T WAIT TO FIND OUT!

I absolutely loved this twist on what the humans and Seelie knew. Aisling is so naive in the world, that everything is kept hidden from her. The lies that she had been spun! She didn't even know what a dragon was! Crazy! And these lies were so clear to be seen, and unlike most other books we were not in the mortal world. We spent time with the Seelie, the Unseelie, we learned about them, their culture and their ways and you care. You care so much about what will happen to them, sod the mortals. The evil men destroying their homes and forests!

But as we drew nearer to the end, I realised, Aisling was just a pawn between two worlds. She is being played, and I have no idea who I can trust for her. Secrets and betrayals and love. A love that is not " natural " but it darn well feels it to me. I loved that it was an instant-love, and it's not even love that either has admitted to, but it's a love that is there. That kiss *sigh*

Metzler has created something so special, and I can't wait to find out why the Mortal Queen becomes the Savage Queen!

The mortal queen is an electrifying fantasy novel with a propulsive fast-paced storyline and filled with buried secrets, deadly threats, tangled curses and magic.

Aisling is suddenly ordered to be in an union with the ruthless fae king. Fae and mortals need to forge a peace. And this arranged marriage might just be that. However Aisling is scared but she won't show it because fae gained satisfaction and fed on her fear. Crawling and creeping she turned it to her survival but what awaited her was far from what she had anticipated.

There are creatures who apparently lurk in the forests, colossal magic and wicked beasts whom she has never heard of. A desperate storm is brewing and Aisling is tethering on the blurred line of survival and her destiny.

I really loved this book. It's far better than what has been advertised as fantasy nowadays. There's an engaging story and fetching twists and turns. The romance is although not a main aspect but was weaved in seamlessly. The kingdom and political bets and pursuits of betrayal, the double edged sharped knife of believing who she was and who was about to become. Her reality is shattered into mere shards as she truly sees everything. Rooted in spinned lies and ploys, Aisling would navigate a path of magic and unfamiliarity. The fae king has definitely made it to my favourites.

I would highly recommend this book to fantasy readers.

This book is absolute fire! 😉 I originally picked this book to listen to based on the description and it did not disappoint! Would recommend this book for listening too or reading it. I love a good enemies to lovers story and a true slow burn romance. If you are looking for a good fantasy book this is a must read!

This book had me on the edge of my seat not truly knowing which direction we were going. I’m going to need the next book!

The Mortal Queen deserves way more hype! I listened to the audiobook, and it was completely addictive—so immersive that I couldn’t stop listening.

Aisling, our morally grey main character, is everything. She’s torn between ambition and morality, and her journey is so compelling. You’re constantly wondering whether she’ll rise to power or fall into corruption. She’s stubborn (sometimes frustratingly so), but given her upbringing, it makes total sense.

The slow-burn romance was, in my opinion, perfectly done. Aisling and Lir start off despising each other, and by the end, while they don’t fully trust one another, they’re undeniably connected. And Lir? Absolutely obsessed. He’s the definition of a perfect book boyfriend—every scene with him was breathtaking.

The world-building is stunning, deeply rooted in Celtic mythology, with a rich, almost old-world writing style. The Fae realm is magical, dangerous, and completely immersive. The first few chapters can be a lot, but once you settle in, it’s so worth it.

Can I also say, that ending?? Did not see it coming. It drove me crazy, but in the best way—I need the next book ASAP. If you love ACOTAR, you’ll love this (but honestly, it’s written even better). Highly recommend!

I think this story has a lot of potential. We have a human FMC who is in an arranged marriage to the fae MMC. The humans and far are at war and this marriage is to bring about an alliance. There is a lot of traveling and the FMC is learning more about the world and just how much information was kept from her. There is more than she ever thought going on in this world. We conclude the first book with some betrayal and intrigue into book 2. I would likely continue on in the series since book 2 is releasing in just a few weeks.

For a debut novel this is incredible and so refreshing! The magic is unique and fun. The characters have dimension and amazing stories. The enemy's to lovers feels like true enemys. The mmc is a little morally grey but he is also very caring for his people.