Firstly, thank you so much for providing this advanced readers copy! It is truly appreciated ☺️

Brittney Arena’s debut fantasy novel is so beautifully written, it captivated me from the very beginning and you felt truly immersed within this world. From start to finish, I was enthralled and couldn’t wait to see what would arise throughout every chapter.

“Your story is not a kind one. But though you’ve suffered your own fire, child, you won’t always smell of smoke. And yes, it may have burned you, but scars are powerful things, because they show your resilience. So rise from your ashes, my dear. Do not crumble alongside them.”

This follows dancer-turned spy, Vasalie Moran, who fled from her abusive father and joins King Illian’s Court who protects her and dubs her as his “Jewel”. That is until he frames and imprisons her for murder. He then makes a deal with her to spy on various individuals during the Royal Gathering, in return for her freedom.

Vasalie’s character development was incredible. During the story, she goes from a traumatised and broken person, but then flourishes into a strong, accomplished woman. Her story is one that people can resonate with on many levels. You go through rough patches and make wrong choices, but it’s what you do in the end that matters.

King Anton is my FAVOURITE! His character arc was elite and was so intriguing! I seriously can’t wait to read more of him in book 2!

That ending was not only cruel, but I secretly loved it 🤣

This was a 4.25 stars for me.