Enthralling Arthurian Fantasy: A Review of 'Queen of Roses' by Briar Boleyn

Today I'm reviewing yet another NetGalley gem, a must read for all fans of Arthurian fantasy. Let's see what the blurb promises:

Book Description from the back cover

A doomed love, a dangerous mission, and a kingdom on the brink of war...

A cast-off princess…

Born into a life of duty and sacrifice, Morgan Pendragon’s destiny has never been her own. Rumored to carry the tainted blood of the fae in her veins, her birthright is stolen from her when she is a mere child. Growing up in the shadow of her brother the king, she has been promised to the goddesses when she comes of age. So, when her brother commands that she seek out a fae weapon of legendary power, Morgan seizes the chance to break free from the chains of her fate.

A dangerous temptation…

As she travels, Morgan finds herself drawn into a strange group of outcasts, led by a dark and enigmatic warrior whose sharp wit and fierce beauty set her heart ablaze. But while Morgan struggles to reconcile her desires with her duty, she and her new comrades discover dangers that await them beyond anything in their wildest nightmares.

A slumbering kingdom awoken by blood…

Believed to have vanished generations ago, a fae kingdom dreaded by mortals is ascending once more, bound to reclaim what was lost by violence and bloodshed. As the fae world, with its intricate web of lies and mysteries, is slowly revealed to Morgan, she is led to the terrible realization that the secrets she carries in her blood make her a greater threat than she could ever have imagined.

The first in an action-packed new series brimming with magic, danger, and spellbinding slow-burn romance, Queen of Roses is perfect for fans of Holly Black, Jennifer L. Armentrout, and Sarah J. Maas.

My review

Briar Boleyn’s “Queen of Roses” weaves together the Arthurian legend and the allure of fae mystique, resulting in a mesmerizing and suspenseful tale. This book is a must-read for anyone who loves high-power fantasy and is a fan of Sarah J. Maas and Jennifer L. Armentrout’s works.

Boleyn grabbed me from the start, taking me into a world where Camelot and the Fae collide. The author’s ability to create a detailed and immersive world is showcased through their meticulous approach, effortlessly transporting you to a realm overflowing with magic and suspense. The descriptions of the landscapes and courtly life are so vivid that you are transported to the core of the story.

At the center of this tale is Morgan Pendragon, a captivating protagonist with a unique blend of enchantment and royal lineage. As she embarks on a mission entrusted to her by King Arthur, you go on an extraordinary adventure filled with peril and unexpected twists. Accompanying Morgan is the enigmatic Kairos Draven, whose mysterious aura adds tension and depth to the story.

The romance side plot in ‘Queen of Roses’ is exceptional, offering a delightful slow burn that will leave you eagerly turning the pages. The dynamic between Morgan and Draven is brilliantly portrayed, with witty banter and moments of undeniable chemistry. As the plot develops, you are given a nuanced portrayal of their bond, laying the groundwork for an enchanting love story.

While there may be some predictable moments in the story, the overall enjoyment factor is immense. Boleyn’s ability to subvert expectations and breathe new life into familiar tropes is commendable. As the first book in the Morgan Pendragon series, ‘Queen of Roses’ sets the stage for an epic saga filled with betrayal, heartbreak, and dark revelations.

In conclusion, ‘Queen of Roses’ is a captivating and imaginative retelling of the Arthurian legend that will appeal to fans of fantasy and romance alike—romantasy at its best. With its richly drawn characters, immersive world-building, and irresistible romance, this book is sure to leave you eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series.