One of my least favorite tropes in romance novels is the virgin who is amazing at sex the very first time. Especially when that virgin has never had any experience at all – including with themselves – and has essentially been asexual for thousands of years. So, that was one negative point for me. Then there is the whole “You killed my mate and now I’m going to get my revenge by killing you. Oh, but wait a moment, you’re hot and sexy and I’m just going to fall in love and screw you instead.” plot. Um. No. Essentially the story is almost all battles and sexcapades. The phrases used as catcalls and “sexy” talk are more often cringy than not. Overall, the book was more annoying than enticing.

Note: I didn’t read the previous books and this was my first book by this author (I think). I don’t think that starting with the third book in the series made much of a difference in my lack of enjoyment – if it affected it at all.

I am never disappointed by a book from this writer! If you are in the mood for a steamy love story with a sizzling hot alpha male this book is for you!!!!

The Phantom by Gena Showalter is an exciting and riveting read that will keep you hooked from beginning to end. Showalter's ability to build a world with intriguing and complex characters is truly remarkable.

Main character Roux is both vulnerable and strong, flawed yet courageous. Add in a spicy romance with fiery and independent Harper and readers will find themselves rooting for this unusual but surprisingly believable couple.

Overall, this is an excellent book that I highly recommend to anyone who enjoy romantic, sci-fi, or fantasy fiction. Showalter has created a truly unforgettable world with complex characters, a gripping plot, and a beautiful romance. With its strong characters, engaging romance, and pulse-pounding action, this book is a must-read for fans of the genre.

Gena Showalter's "The Phantom" is the third installment in the Rise of the Warlords series, and as one of the leading authors of paranormal romance, Showalter has crafted an utterly captivating story. Filled with lovable characters and plenty of fun, "The Phantom" is sure to leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in the Rise of the Warlords series.

“Enemies to Lovers” Harpy Style. Loved every moment of reading this book. Another exciting addition to the Rise of the Warlords which has been advertised as containing more decapitations than ever before. My favorite quote “ Blythe solidified behind her attacker and used her short swords like scissors. Chop. Headless Amazon.”
Blythe the Undoing is Taliyah’s sister so her bloodline has some mysterious perks. With her nine stars earned toward becoming general, she is a formidable enemy for Roux to make. And he becomes Enemy #1 the instant they meet.
Roux, Torture Master, is an Astra with inner demons, sort of. He is given a Blessing Task that he can do, no problem. Until some complications arise. Some of my favorite comic scenes are Roux interacting with Isla. Just wait till you meet her.
Blythe and Roux have a major problem in common - evil daddy issues. What an ironic thing to bond over. They get thrown into an impossible situation together and have to find a possible solution. Makes for an organ-snatching, head-rolling, spine-tingling, orgasmic rollercoaster ride to HEA.

I received this ARC through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
Published goodreads - February 6, 2023 link attached
Submitted Kobo - February 6, 2023 published est February 7, 2023

Gina Showalter's The Phantom is a great addition to her series and such a hot enemies to lovers read. Steamy scenes, laugh out loud banter and excellent character building, this was a fun read and romp!

Gena Showalter is an absolute power house when it comes to writing paranormal romance. Blythe is a world class bad ass and the only one capable of taming a torture master like Roux. Every chapter draws you in so much you can’t stop reading. 10/10 romance!!

The file was a bit difficult to read and there were a lot of weird typos. For example “he closed the block in her face” I think it meant to say “he closed the door in her face”. There were also no chapters in the file I received.

While I enjoyed the majority of the story it felt very disjointed and jumped around a lot. You would be reading from one character POV and suddenly you would be in another chat POV and it was confusing. I think this was confusing because the file had no chapters and therefore no natural breaks from one scene to the next.

Blythe and Roux were a lot of fun and I enjoyed their banter and their slow burn romance considering her killed her consort. There was a plot twist at the end I didn’t see coming and I was pleasantly surprised how Blythe brilliantly solved their predicament.