"You could slap me with the physical copy of this book and i would smile because i love it that much. Legit, this is one of the only two fantasy books I’ve given 5 stars this year.

A beautifully written political fantasy with an emotional slowburn romance.

I cried 3 times in the first 100 pages. It isn’t all emotional, but Velasin’s trauma is heart-wrenching and i really appreciated how Foz Meadows handled it in a delicate yet raw way. It meant a lot to me. (TWs below)

This story is full of court drama, political intrigue, and assassination plots, but not once did I feel overwhelmed by all the world-building. Foz truly has a gift! All the characters were incredibly fleshed out and I felt like I knew them as friends. (Markle was probably one of my fave characters!)

Did I wish the final villain reveal had a little more pizzazz? Sure, I had hoped it would be a little more shocking. BUT for me, this story is primarily about Velasin healing from his trauma and letting himself fall in love with Cae more than anything else and that is why I am keeping it a 5-star.

(I have seen some people say that they felt the story was dragging on...but trauma is not something that a person can easily overcome, it is not something they will forget in a few days.)

*Rep: Many of our characters are queer.
Markle, who is Velasin’s butler-bestie is mute and uses sign language to communicate.
The kem use “thir� pronouns (nonbinary rep)
There is bodymagic that allows a person to change gender (trans rep)

*HUGE TW for on page rape, suicidal ideation, attempted self harm, PTSD/trauma, homophobia, animal death (horse)

*not an extensive list"

"1st Read: January 2023

All the stars to this brilliant masterpiece!!!

I was so excited when I heard the concept of this book, but it absolutely exceeded my expectations! The characters were all so well rounded, the world-building was phenomenal, and I could not put it down.

That being said, this is a very heavy book that deals with a lot of triggering content. Major TW's for sexual assault, suicidal ideation, and the death of an animal.

Above all else, I would say this book focused on healing, self-acceptance, and overcoming internalized prejudices. I adored all of the characters (specifically Vel, Cae, and Markel), and LOVED all the different types of representation. Another one of my favorite elements in this was the honest communication between Vel and Cae - NO MISCOMMUNICATION HERE!

This book honestly read like really good fanfiction - which is not a diss by any stretch.. I love a good fanfic!!

Overall, this book was stunningly diverse, with complex political machinations and a wonderful found family.


2nd Read: November 2023:

When I decided to reread this book in anticipation of the release of All the Hidden Paths, I was so scared that it wouldn't hold up to my memory of it. I'm delighted to announce that that was not the case - this was just as great as the first time I read it!

I don't know what it is about this book that makes me so emotional but I cried multiple times reading this. I absolutely adore Vel and Cae's relationship, and Markel is such a sweetheart.

I cannot wait to get to the sequel - I just need more of Vel, Cae and Markel in my life!"

"if a rivalry lasts longer than 7 years, then you are no longer rivals. you are gay"