Secrets
lies
Murder
Political intrigue
Slowburn romance


I enjoyed the MC, at times Taryn was extremely empathetic and at others (maybe) too impulsive with her actions. Although, for her age and the whiplash of the situations she finds herself thrown into, the scale tipping between wanting to do what’s right and wanting to be self serving was a refreshingly real response.

I have so many questions after reading this book, and will be running to pick up the next in the trilogy.

I loved both of the potential romance interests, and need to know who ends up with whom.

There is sprinkling of fantasy elements being planted and am interested in how they grow as the series progresses.

Overall, the world building was solid and the storyline progressed nicely. The ending pulls you in to want to know more on what the characters will face/uncover next, and how they respond.

I really loved it! I loved the character and the world building. The interactions were well thought out as well as not focusing on romance. I enjoyed the plot and the concept. I did find that at around chapter 27 (5 chapters give or take) the events and conflicts happened too quickly. That being said shortly after that the conflicts slowed down and it went at a slower pace. Vladimir will hold a special place in my heart.

All my best,
Emma

Harrill weaves a captivating tale of fantasy--blending elements of political intrigue, mysteries, and the more emotional topic of dealing with grief and healing. I found myself flying through the book and completed it within one sitting. It was so easy to get immersed into the story and captivated by the mystery. Who had killed Taryn's father? Why had they done it? Every question made me want to finish the book all the more. The ending was beautifully poignant and I felt that it wrapped up the relationship Taryn had with her father perfectly. That epilogue though... it left me hungry for more.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!