This is my first book by this author. I always am fascinated by characters who have powers of healing and am excited to see how they use those powers for themselves or others. The Romani themes were a treat into giving me a glimpse as how these people actually live their lives; I don't think I've read a book before where there was detailed explanations for the Romani culture and I appreciated it. Willow's adventure and romance with Princess Madeline was nice overall. The story flowed and the worldbuilding wasn't underwhelming. I would've liked more imagery but that's just me. The first person pov did take some time to get used to, and I feel like more could've been explored if it was 3rd person but the story gets the job done. The side romance of Madame Rosmerta and Queen Alyssandra was something I wish we could've seen more and I hope the next book shows more of that. There's just something tantalizing about a queen having a woman lover outside of her royal expectations. It's something I hope to incorporate in my own fantasy novel I'm working on. Overall, a decent story and I would definitely recommend this book to others.

For a first novel I found this to be exceptionally good. It taught me a lot about Romani culture much of which I had no clue off. So on that front I found it educational.

As for the prejudice, I'll admit I'm shocked. I mean I'm aware but I guess blissfully ignorant which is no excuse.

I enjoyed the descriptive nature of this book. Yes, many would say long winded but I liked that as it gave me a personal understanding.

I would recommend this book. Especially if you're looking for something different. It starts slowly but quickly picks up speed. I found it to be an enjoyable read.

Enjoy!

***Special thanks to NetGalley and Atmosphere Press for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review***

This was a really fascinating book that was definitely very unique. I loved reading about a book with a Romani character front and center in addition to learning about the prejudice the main character Willow faced.

While I loved the romance in this novel I realized that I am a complete SUCKER for the side romance *SPOILER* Alyssandra and Rosmerta are literally amazing.

The only problem that I would have with this book is that at times it seemed over descriptive which contributed to a show not tell style of writing which I am bot a huge fan of.

Overall I found this to be a very unique book and would recommend it!

Willow is a gifted healer and her best friend, Galynda, a seer. They belong to one of the last Romany tribes that travel from one village to the next. Members are slowly settling into town life, not because they want to but because attacks on their caravan have become vicious. Willow herself was raised by the head healer, Magda, because her parents were killed by hate-filled marauders when she was a child.

When a group of Kingsmen ride towards their clan and declare that they are on a mission to retrieve the renowned healer who wears the hat of a man, Willow and Magda have no choice. The Queen is gravely ill. The group is whisked away to her palace and Queendom where all of their lives change forever.

The story is told from Willow’s first person pov. She’s a strong willed mc, 22 years old, full of life and verve, ready for adventure but devoted to family and caring for others. The author does something curious to the young mc which makes me believe that she wanted to see what a hero might do with one hand tied behind her back.

There’s also treachery in the castle due to a cast out, wicked king but the violence is mostly off page. The many secondary characters also shine. The Queen’s daughter, brave and beautiful Princess Madeline, falls hard for Willow and it makes for a sweet first love. There is also a m/f romance (Galynda and Prince Phillip) but the f/f one has most of the spotlight and the hot scenes.

The writing has a nice, easy flow with good, basic world building. Although the story has a definite ending, it then opens to a new beginning so I look forward to see how the tale continues.

There is one other couple, Queen Alyssandra and her long time lover, the court courtesan, Madame Rosmerta. Stunning women, older, sensual in so many ways that are only hinted at. I almost cried with the desire to be let in on their love affair. But remember, the pov is only Willow’s. I can only hope that the next book switches to Alyssandra and Rosmerta. Would be fire.

First I want to say that in reading this book I learned a lot. The book was extraordinarily detailed, while this was at many times wonderful, there were times where such in depth descriptions seem unnecessary and long winded. It took me longer than normal to make it through the book. While I enjoyed the read it was written more like a biography than a story. At times it felt as if the author was trying to tell the story of a year in the life of Willow. The book is less story telling and more a stream of thoughts and observations made by the main character. I am however impressed with the level of thought and research that must have went into this book. I would read another book from this author should she choose to publish again.