Series: The Kingdom of Crows

BOOK REVIEW: House of Striking Oaths (The Kingdom of Crows #3) by Olivia Wildenstein

September 11, 2023 / Jen / 2 Comments

House of Striking Oaths (The Kingdom of Crows #3)
by Olivia Wildenstein
Purchase on: Amazon
Add to: Goodreads

Synopsis:
I WILL BECOME QUEEN OF LUCE... OR DIE TRYING.

There are few people I loathe more than Dante Regio, but my aunt Bronwen, my former grandfather Justus, and my Shabbin grandmother Meriam sit right alongside the Faerie monarch on my list of despicable beings. Especially after they assist the pointy-eared ruler with my kidnapping.

Locked in an obsidian underworld no Crow can reach, not even their king, I soon learn things aren't as they seem. People aren't as they seem. And history... I'm still attempting to reconcile the truth with what I was previously told.

My new allies have an agenda, but I have one of my own. Though there's overlap-we all agree Dante must die-what I desire more than anything is to return to Lore before he levels the kingdom to find me... or loses his humanity trying.

I may favor crowns over coffins, but I refuse to live in a world where my mate only exists as a bird.

Strap in for one last romantic and pulse-pounding adventure in a world governed by magic and hearts.

Review:

“Long live”— I lean all my weight into my arms—“ the Crows.”

House of Striking Oaths was an action packed ride from start to finish. This romantasy was filled with life, death, betrayal, love and allies in the most unlikely of places. Stepping into this story, realize that there is still one more book to be released. Why I thought it was trilogy is beyond me haha. While lots of things were wrapped up by the end of this book, there was also a lot that needed to be solved. So I’m counting down till we get a HEA for those we love in House of Shifting Tides. And I’m keeping my fingers crossed we get an epilogue of just Fallon and Lore, because I need to see them both completely happy pretty please!

I catch the new spark that animates my violet eyes.
I will set myself free.

Stepping into this story, there was so much up in the air. Readers will be happy to know that we got a lot of answers! They made sense, but I was shocked that I didn’t see quite a few things coming. Who was using Brownwen’s eyes. About her mother. A marriage I couldn’t even fathom. We learned a lot in this story. Not only what people’s intentions were, but also the rules for magic. And how past deals affected the present. The alliances, motives and actions of others were all laid out on the table for us. And that led to dangerous games being played within the pages.

I will murder them all.

But the pages were also filled with torture, regret, and anger that will burn you alive. Death needed to happen to those that didn’t deserve to live. Like Dante. I hated him. He was a sociopath filled with lies who was so easy to hate. I kept waiting for the moment he got what he deserved. But there was also someone in the story who Wildenstein was able to flip my feeling around for. Trust was earned, that I never thought could be. And that left me feeling like I needed to go back and re-read those first two books because my assumptions tainted the story in a certain way. And I was completely wrong!

“Ready to become mine, Serpent-charmer?”
I tilt my head, and although Nonna taught me not to provoke purelings, I cannot help but hiss, “I’ll never be yours.”

Fallon came into her magic and it was fascinating watching her learn how to do things. But I definitely had a hiccup with Fallon. I understood that she had so much rage, but why she didn’t play nice with Dante so Antoni didn’t suffer was beyond me. Why she wasn’t smarter and more careful for her friend’s life made me want to shake her. Hard. Thankfully as the story progressed, I loved that she stood up for those she loved. She had so much fire in her! Yet her and Lore struggled since he was still keeping secrets from her. And that hurt ugh. Thankfully Lore loved Fallon with all of his heart and was willing to do whatever it took to save her. His love for her was larger than life! And I loved seeing the softer side of him too, like when he was giving Pheebs relationship advice haha. Ohhh plus the scenes between Fallon and Lore were sooo hot!

He kisses one corner of my lips, then hovers his mouth over the other and murmurs, “My heart.”

Bargains were formed. Forgiveness was given. Plans were put in place that had the hugest of risks. And they were sent on the most impossible of quests. This book will definitely keep you entertained! And as we watched the story unfold, it didn’t matter that some things came to pass that were horrific, fate had a way of achieving what it wanted. No matter how much one tried to evade it. Also, there was something setup in this book, for a future spinoff decades down the road and I am so excited that option was given! Closing this story, the epilogue left me in tears. I desperately need that next book. There was something that needed to be “fixed”. And it hurt. So I’m counting down till that next book is released!

*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, provided by the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*

BOOK REVIEW: House of Pounding Hearts (The Kingdom of Crows #2) by Olivia Wildenstein

February 17, 2023 / Jen / 4 Comments

House of Pounding Hearts (The Kingdom of Crows #2)
by Olivia Wildenstein
Purchase on: Amazon
Add to: Goodreads

Synopsis:
I MEANT TO CAPTURE THE PRINCE'S HEART . . . AND ENDED UP WITH A KING'S.

My desire to sit upon the Lucin throne led me to revive an ancient, winged monarch; one I deemed a friend until that friend duped and imprisoned me.

Lorcan claims he's holding me captive for my own safety, but then he also claims I belong to him. Slumbering for five centuries has evidently given the Crow King severe delusions.

We may share an unfortunate mind-link, but we are still masters of our own destiny, and I intend to steer mine away from the Sky Kingdom and its prophecies . . . away from him.

I quickly find out there is no escaping the possessive male. In all honesty, I'm no longer certain I want to.

Get swept away in the second installment of a slow-burn shifter fantasy series full of heartbreaking deceit, wicked supernaturals, and alpha males.

*contains mature content. Recommended for 18+

Review:

“Once upon a time, Lore, you told me that we were just beginning.” I glance over my shoulder as my words settle into him. “So let’s begin.”

House of Pounding Hearts was a dark and luscious fantasy that was impossible to put down. These characters completely captured my heart. And they will make you laugh. Cry. And fall in love. There were heart stopping moments where dread set like a viper in the pit of my stomach. Lies and secrets swirled through the pages. And death slowly seeped its way in too. If you love romance and fantasy, you need this series in your life!

For several breaths, we just stand there— me gazing at his feet, and him gazing at my downturned face. How far we fell when he rose.

Fallon was a jumble of emotions. She could deny all she wanted, and tell herself lies, but she wanted Lore. And while she struggled with her feelings towards him, I loved how much banter she threw his way. But some of that banter hurt. It made sense though, she was being held in the Bird Kingdom, for her own safety. That anger at being trapped was lashed towards Lore again and again. All the while Fallon’s whole world kept changing. As the story unfolded, Fallon got a very clear picture of where everyone stood. Some of that hurt. But others left us cheering for joy! Fallon was easily one of my favorite heroines and I loved her willingness to try new things. Like learn crow. The meanings of the words she learned, and also the words she used, it felt like my heart would burst with joy. Fallon definitely made me cry happy tears.

He flips my hand and licks a languid line from the center of my palm to the inside of my wrist. Till the sky is darkest, and I can taste you everywhere.

I stand planted in front of my door like one of Nonna’s medicinal shrubs for a solid minute after he retreats to his rooms, gaping after him.

My heart hurt for Lore. He tried so hard again and again with Fallon. She was his mate, yet she wanted none of it. Fallon was determined to have her independence and stay away from him. But even when Lore wasn’t around Fallon, I loved how well informed he kept. I laughed out loud way too many times over that! Through it all, Lore was a constant. He was seductive, charming and impossible to ignore. And he always protected Fallon. There was literally nothing he wouldn’t do for her *cries*. Plus he seemed to play by her rules, and respect Fallon’s needs and wants when push came to shove So I kept waiting for the moment that Lore would claim her, because I knew it would be so hot!

“You may think me a monster, and perhaps fighting monsters has turned me into one, but as you said, you’re shackled to me, Little Bird.”

I puff a breath out of the corner of my mouth in frustration. “I didn’t say it. I thought—”

“Do you know what that makes me in regards to you?”

I sigh. “My ball and chain?”

His mouth tips. “That makes me your monster. The one who will fight off all the others in order to keep you safe.”

In a moment of rare pragmatism, I ask, “And who, do tell, will keep me safe from you, Lorcan Ríhbiadh?”

My words are met with a dusky smile that heightens the fever in my blood and the throb everywhere else.

Fallon and Lore had a definite enemies to lovers vibe in this story. They both said things they didn’t mean, I loved all of her little bird digs haha. They both felt jealousy. Yet they wouldn’t admit or voice their feelings, since they were incredibly stubborn. But they could still talk telepathically, and as time passed they kept getting drawn closer and closer together. Lore kept getting under Fallon’s skin. He would make her smile. And she couldn’t deny that when others had let her down, he always had her back. So I just knew that if they came together, they would be a formable pair and the ultimate power couple. Together they would be unstoppable. So as Fallon started to play a dangerously seductive game with Lore, it was impossible not to squeal in excitement. Because when things turned to more, it was extremely hot, and absolutely beautiful!

He trails a line of kisses up the length of my throat, each gentle peck of his mouth sparking a little moan that vibrates the darkened air.

Even when everything else was upside down, Fallon had those she loved. Pheebs, Syb, and others. But my favorite side character in this book was Eefah. I adored her! And Fallon’s father too. He cracked me up with his emotions. Like when he got upset or learned things and exploded haha. But I still did not like Dante. I thought he was a horrible human who Fallon shouldn’t be giving any leeway. And as the story unfolded, events came about that were unfathomable. It wasn’t supposed to be this way, I was shocked. So be careful, because not everything is as it seems. There were also moments I was terrified for all of them. It was like you could feel the horrific unknown coming. So yes I cried all the tears with this book! And that ending?! It was a true cliffhanger that was EPIC!

Once I’ve burst out, I hinge at the waist and breathe. Just breathe.

And then . . .

And then I finally scream.

Betrayal, lies, schemes, and deceit slashed through the pages. There were hearts broken, trust shattered and when the carpet was pulled beneath them my mouth was wide open. The twists this book took were phenomenal! But there was also hope, laughter, kindness, loyalty, friendship, and even love. And by that final page, Fallon was a true warrior. And Lore solidified himself as one of my top book boyfriends! So pick this book up if you’re looking for a romantasy that continually builds and will leave you with a fabulous, heart stopping ending!

Fight for us, Behach Éan. Your monster is coming.

PS The meatball incident, I’m still laughing!

PPS But the eel scene! Best. Scene. Ever!

*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, provided by the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*

BOOK REVIEW: House of Beating Wings (The Kingdom of Crows #1) by Olivia Wildenstein

September 14, 2022 / Jen / 2 Comments

House of Beating Wings (The Kingdom of Crows #1)
by Olivia Wildenstein
Purchase on: Amazon
Add to: Goodreads

Synopsis:
FREE THE CROWS, FALLON, AND THEY WILL MAKE YOU QUEEN.

Until an oracle predicted my regal future, I'd never imagined myself rising above the curve of my round ears. After all, I was the magicless halfling loved by beasts but loathed by every pure-blooded faerie at court. Well . . . by all but one.

Dante Regio, prince of Luce, had owned my heart since he gave me my first kiss. If gathering a slew of iron relics could help me overthrow the current monarch and crown his brother to rule at my side, then treasure hunting I'd go.

If only the oracle had warned me what winged demon I was releasing into the world.

And that I'd become this demon's obsession.

Fans of Sarah J. Maas and Mary E. Pearson will devour this epic fantasy romance full of deceit, betrayal, and false loves that could swallow a person whole.

Review:

House of Beating Wings completely consumed me. This magical world filled with fae grabbed a hold of my heart and refused to let go. There was peril and heart stopping moments within the pages! Truces were made with consequences attached to them. And the characters and story-line leaped from the pages! Fans of fantasy won’t be able to put this story down!

Antoni squeezes my waist. “One day soon, there’ll be peace.”
I frown because I hadn’t realized we were at war.

Fallon was a magicless halfling who was given a prophecy, free the crows and they will make you queen. Being loathed by the full blooded fae, Fallon was intrigued to go above her station. Especially since she saw a chance with having a future with her friend, Dante. Who was brother to the crown. Fallon’s world was changed forever when she started her quest to free the crows!

I’ve stolen a mythical, murderous creature. I shudder as the depth of what I’ve done folds over me like dark water.

I loved Fallon! She was brave, head strong, honest, had a good heart and loved her friends. Because of her rounded ears, she was discriminated against and it hurt my heart. Yet there was so much more to Fallon than meets the eye. She could supposedly charm the beasts that lived in their waters. And one of them captured my heart, I was just as nervous for his fate and I was for Fallon’s. I was also so nervous for Fallon because she seemed to have all of her faith and trust in Dante. And as her Grandma reminded her, they could never be. Yet the key to her future revolved around releasing the crows, so we jumped head first into a spellbinding adventure with Fallon!

“Don’t betray me and I won’t betray you.”

The romance in this book will keep you on your toes! It was brilliant how it all unfolded. I found myself vacillating between Antoni and Dante. I didn’t know which one would be the right choice for Fallon and I liked them both for different reasons. But hold on, because a few somethings happened and my mind was reeling. The story took me somewhere that had my pulse pounding, I beyond ecstatic and it was absolutely genius! Fans of slow burn romance are going to love it!

“You’re such an ass.”The chuckle that resounds between my temples widens my eyes. “Did you just . . . laugh, Morrgot?”
A charmless ass like myself laugh? You must be hearing things.

The crows, oh there is so much I want to say but my lips are zipped except for a few things. Dark sarcasm, it was phenomenal! The lengths that were went to to protect, oh my heart there was nothing that was off limits. And the way Fallon was led, there were so many secrets and twists within the pages. I loved watching the little pieces of the puzzle come together. Looking back some of my guesses were correct! Others I didn’t even see coming. I don’t even know how many times I gasped out loud or was muttering omg again and again to myself. This story blew my mind!

I’m not defective.
My lids burn. My chest hurts from how chaotically my heart beats.
I’m not defective.

With a richly imagined world, a dark and luscious story and characters that were brilliantly done, House of Beating Wings was a phenomenal start to a new series! This story kept me glued to the pages and consumed my every waking thought. The ending left us at the perfect stopping spot but I’m anxiously dying for that next book, I have to know what happens next. Fans of fantasy should definitely have this book on their tbr!

I won’t fail you, I whisper through the bond.

*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, provided by the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*