The Stolen Kingdom has a lot of promise. I really enjoyed the magic system, lovely characters and the overall premise of the book. Unfortunately, this book tries to cover a lot of ground in less than 400 pages. I felt like book was rushed and that the world was very underdeveloped. I would have liked to see some more worldbuilding from the author. But overall it was a lovely YA fantasy.

Such unique magic in this enthralling book

Mara is the daughter of a wine-grower. She's always had magic, though she doesn't know why and hides it. But when she gets kidnapped and told that she's the rightful queen of the kingdom, she will face a difficult choice: condemn the current royal family whose ancesters stole the magic a long time ago to take back her throne.

This book was one of my best fantasy reads ever. Mara is a very likable protagonist, and so is Alac so it was very easy to get into it and feel for them. The story picked up quite quickly and the world was explained throughout beautifully. I was impressed by the history of the kingdom which is pretty original and uncommon. The magic was also quite unique - life, or death if it's stolen - and followed the plot perfectly. I didn't expect to be surprised since the plot seems to be revealed at the beginning with the plan prepared, but I did find myself gasping and cursing at some plot twists. The romance was there and perfectly balanced - enough to keep us wanting more, but not too much as to drown the main plot. The writing is also really pleasant, fluid and rich. This was a well-thought story that I couldn't put down and found myself finishing in barely 24 hours. It deserves way more hype!

I definitely recommend!

"From a distance, things often seem more romantic than they really are."

THE STOLEN KINGDOM by jillian Boehme is a great standalone fantasy for readers who enjoy political intrigue, slow-burn romance, and the chosen one trope. I loved the way magic system was woven throughout. It really added a ton to the world building.

I read this as part of the blog tour hosted by TBR & Beyond Tours. Special thanks to Netgalley and Tor Teen for providing a copy in exchange for an honest review. 4 intoxicating stars!

I was a bit apprehensive about this because we totally started off on the wrong foot and by the 20% mark I wasn't sure if I was feeling it. Thankfully, I decided to restart the read and the second time around resulted in me speeding through this in one sitting! I couldn't put it down and I was eagerly racing through the pages to see how everything would work out—especially because there were plenty of moments when it felt like things wouldn't work out fine. I'm glad I was proven wrong! 😉 This was a thrilling, engaging and well-paced read that I'm kind of sad is only a standalone, although Boehme wraps up the story very nicely and on a bright/hopeful note!

As the story revolves around one of our MCs finding out her bloodline is royal, the world-building mainly focused on the history of the royal lineage and the origin and dark history of magic. I thought these aspects were done well and it was easy to understand the background leading up to the present-day situation. I liked how Boehme explained how magic in this book is wrought of time, which is neutral, and therefore, magic is neither good nor evil on its own. Although there's obviously a price when it came to using black magic, I found it unique that there was no price for using the magic for good, and that Mara could wield it without being drained of energy. The magic also felt very alive in this story, which it wasn't, but it seemed to crackle with energy!

I will say that if you're expecting intricate world-building, you won't really find that here, and I think this would be perfect for fantasy newbies as it's fairly simple and straightforward. That said, it was still detailed enough for me to easily picture the scenes as I read. I don't know if there will be a map in the final copy but I sure hope so!

For me, the characters were the highlight of the story. It's told through alternating POVs between Maralyth and Alac, both of whom were easily likeable and thus easy to root for, but even the side characters such as Nestar and Tucker were great additions. Sadly, we don't get much development for the side characters, which is a shame as I would've loved to learn more about them (especially Tucker as he was so amusing and had such a great relationship with Alac that I wanted more of)! Mara is probably one of the most level-headed YA heroines I've ever read (in the best way). Despite being thrust into a life-changing situation, she embraces this new reality with queenly grace and determination that was very admirable. She's undeniably passionate about helping the people of Perin Faye—whether that's through creating cooperatives for winemakers to improve their livelihoods or standing up to take back her rightful throne from evil despotic rulers. Although she's understandably reluctant at times and takes no joy in the more murderous aspect of the plot, she never wavers in her convictions and it was so refreshing to read! I'm glad that I can say the same goes for Alac's character. He's the 'spare heir' and has never been interested in ruling, nor does he care for the black magic that consumes his father and brother. Despite having strained relationships with his father and brother, he still loves them and fondly remembers the days before the magic changed everything. He's somewhat aloof but also passionate and kind-hearted—he's essentially a down-to-earth Prince who just wants to live his best life, especially if that means being a vintner. He was a genuinely good guy who wanted to help the people of Perin Faye, even if it meant doing the unthinkable, and I really respected the maturity of his character!

I thought Mara and Alac fit together so well—they were such perfect complements to each other. At times their romance does feel insta-lovey, especially at the start, but I also wouldn't say that they completely fall head first right away. They grapple with these unwanted feelings as they spend more time together and nothing really happens between them until much later on. I also wouldn't say this was strictly enemies-to-lovers, but more like 'acquaintances-to-friends-to-enemies-to-lovers' and I loved that even more for them because it made their romance more believable (for me anyway)!

While it's not the most original story I've read, it still felt like a very refreshing YA fantasy. The royal-take-over plot was not only well-paced but felt very high-stakes as I became more invested in the characters and their success. I loved that Mara and Alac were steadfast and able to make mature decisions that aren't driven by raging hormones, but truly for the good of the people they're fighting for. The romance was a little insta-lovey while still managing to feel tentative and very sweet—they complemented each other so perfectly! Safe to say, the hype about this book does not lie!

I LOVED this book!
Everything about it was magical.
Excellent story and setting.

Will read more by Jillian!

Thank you so much for allowing me to read and review your titles.
I do appreciate it and continue to review books that I get the chance to read.
Thanks again!

We open up with Maralyth (Mara), the daughter of a vinter (wine maker) who wants nothing more than to be able to take over her Father's vineyard. There's just one problem, she's a girl and she has magic. No one can know her magical secret, but that doesn't stop her from using it to help her Father's business and provide the best wine in the kingdom - that is, until someone sees her using it and kidnaps her from her home, forcing her to go along with their coup and plan to take over the kingdom and place Mara as Queen.

Then we have Alac, the king's second son and back up heir to the throne. His brother is getting married and Alac can't wait for him to take over so he can pursue his passion - wine making. But a few weeks before the wedding, the King calls Alac in and gives him an amulet to keep him safe, should anything go wrong. The amulet is dark and there's something off about it, so Alac does the only reasonable thing and opens it. Dark magic spills out and confirms Alac's worst fears: the stolen magic has turned bad and if it gets out it will destroy everything. 

I loved the plot of this book. I loved the dual POVs it has and the back and forth we see from Mara's plans to Alac's cluelessness, both unaware of what the other knows and what their intentions are. Both hate the way the kingdom has been stolen and want to return the magic from where it came, but with each of them unaware of what the other has planned, things get a bit chaotic. One thing I really wanted to see was Mara's royalty training. Going undercover in the castle means knowing what to do and what to say and I wish we saw those mix-ups and interactions as Mara learns how to be royalty. She picks up on it very quickly and while she might say the wrong thing, in Alac's eyes, she blends right in. 

Another thing I really loved is the way Alac and Mara are drawn to each other. Mara, knowing Alac is her enemy, can't seem to keep away from him and Alac can't get enough of Mara. The enemies turned friends back to enemies then lovers trope is excellent and I want more of it. I also loved the description of the magic. For Mara, it's life, healing, and growth, but when it's with Alac it's death, decay, and destruction. The dichotomy between the magic in its natural form versus stolen shows the danger that our characters and the kingdom are truly in, especially if it manages to get out. 

Overall, I loved the storyline. I read this book in between packing and work because I could not put it down, I had to know what was going to happen next. If you're looking for a great fantasy, with enemies to lovers, and dark magic you should definitely pick up this book!

3.75/5 stars

Hmmmm… I liked it. I didn’t love it, but it has some really great stuff going on! Fantasy lovers who like fast, enjoyable, romantic adventures, this one's for you!

Today’s my day to post about this book for @tbrbeyondtours over on Instagram! You can check out my Bookstagram post here, which includes my journal spread, a mini-review, and a moodboard!

Goodreads synopsis:
For a hundred years, the once-prosperous kingdom of Perin Faye has suffered under the rule of the greedy and power-hungry Thungrave kings. Maralyth Graylaern, a vintner's daughter, has no idea her hidden magical power is proof of a secret bloodline and claim to the throne. Alac Thungrave, the king’s second son, has always been uncomfortable with his position as the spare heir—and the dark, stolen magic that comes with ruling.

When Maralyth becomes embroiled in a plot to murder the royal family and seize the throne, a cat-and-mouse chase ensues in an adventure of dark magic, court intrigue, and forbidden love.

Alrighty, see all those tropes at the bottom of that synopsis? Those are simultaneously the best and worst parts of the book for me… I’ll try to explain.

I really enjoyed the direction Boehme decided to take her story and her characters. At first, the book begins with a simple “hidden royal” with secret powers trope (which I love) who has to infiltrate the castle pretending to be someone else (which is literally my favorite trope) in order to usurp the merciless royal family who use dark, stolen magic to enforce their power. Sounds like a whole lot of potential! And a lot of that potential does deliver; we’ve got interesting magic (though I do want to understand that more) and a fresh world full of some of the best aspects of fantasy - ball gowns, royalty, castles, courtship, beautiful descriptions of vineyards and inns in small villages. The characters have unique perspectives on what it means to be a leader, and they deal with all the deliciously tense drama that comes with secret identities, rebellions, and divided loyalties.

But when I look back on what I read, something doesn’t quite feel… perfect to me. While yes, this story is interesting and magical and a good story, there are certain aspects that could have been fleshed out more. ESPECIALLY in the romance. Was it bad? Absolutely not. Am I being picky because I’m a YA fantasy romance snob? Probably. But I wanted more. I wanted more sparks, ones you can just see without seeing, ya know? I wanted more of a build-up to the “I can’t live without them” moment. I wanted more tension - it’s forbidden romance for goodness sakes, let’s see some forbidden-ness!! It was just - so close to that point, but I’m not sure it really got there. Plus, there were some… disturbing quotes from the main characters that I thought were odd??? I won’t type them out here or anything but… t’was a little disturbing how much the love interest wanted to kill her at one point, even though he… loved her?? Oh, and how touching her cheek in a non-sexual way “shot fire into [his] loins” ?? Kinda out of nowhere?

Anyway haha, this isn’t the most unique fantasy ever. For funsies, I’m going to put a few of my favs this book reminded me of at some point while reading:

Sisters of Sword and Song
The Promised Prince
Shielded
Granted

However, it’s still an enjoyable read. If you’re an avid YA fantasy reader and these tropes sound like your cup of tea, give this one a try! You might really enjoy it!





If you enjoyed this review, you can friend me here on Goodreads and follow my Bookstagram/Pinterest/Twitter @ashton_reads. Thanks for reading!

Initial Thoughts

I was so excited to read this book. Besides having a stunning cover, the premise sounded right up my alley.

Some Things I Liked

Dual POVs. I love that. I really enjoy back and forth between the main characters as well as their inner monologues.
Lite fantasy. I enjoyed the magic system but it wasn’t the main focus of the story. I felt like the story focused more on the political conflict as well as the implications of who actually possessed the magic.
Romance. I also really loved the romance. It was subtle but a cute story.

One Thing I Wasn’t Crazy About

I’m never a fan of insta-love. While I loved the romance, I wasn’t crazy about how it started. It felt a bit rushed for me.

Series Value

I think this story feels complete. While I liked this world, I feel like the story between these characters ended in a way that I was satisfied with.

Final Thoughts

I enjoyed this book. I don’t love insta-love, but I was happy with the resolution of the romance plot.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Recommendations for Further Reading

The Vine Witch by Luanne G. Smith
Seven Ways to Kill a King by Melissa Wright

I really enjoyed this book. The spin on how the magic was used was very unique and that really kept my attention to that part of the story. I loved how Maralyth has secretly kept her magic hidden, or so she thought, and how she discovers more about her mother throughout the story. Maralyth is a strong heroine which is always a bonus and enjoyed. Alac's spin on not wanting the magic and then how it calls to him was interesting and the internal battle he has. A great read and definitely a good vacation or weekend read.

I was given a copy for my honest review through NetGalley.

A tale of deception, stolen magic and two members of warring families who fall in love.

Maralyth is a winemaker’s daughter who hides her magic, trying to help her father make a profit by making the grapes grow perfectly plump while the whole family struggles under the rule of an evil king.

But when Maralyth is kidnapped because of her magic, she’s involved in court intrigue and a plot against that king. All of this is complicated, however, when the king’s second son, Alac, seems to be falling for Maralyth. His good heart begins to win her over, and Maralyth must decide where her loyalties lie.

This book is perfectly plotted, keeping me turning pages. I enjoyed the choices the characters had to face because of the evil magic harnessed by the king, and the scenes with Maralyth and Alac were sweet.

This is an excellent stand-alone fantasy.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advance review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

A forbidden Kingdom where Magic is not allowed. The kingdom of Perin Faye, has been ruled by the greedy Thungrave kings. Alac, the second son of the Thungrave king, is under constant fear of his position as spare heir to the throne and around him.

Maralyth Graylaern, a vintner's daughter, has no idea her hidden magical power is proof of a secret bloodline and claim to the throne. She visits the kingdom and wishes to abduct the entire Thungrave line by killing the royal family.

No doubt the plot seems quite promising when read at the back of the book, but does the inside offer the same? I don't think so, the world building is very very wage and underdeveloped. If this would have been a duology rather than it being a standalone it would have been much better.

The side characters are very under developed and flat. The main characters are not likeable by me. They are very straightforward and I wanted more layers to this plot. The romance was so hurried it felt like a forceful match rather than one of a choice by the two.
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Thanks to NetGalley and Publisher for the eARC!

I want to say that this book was freaking amazing. But sadly for me it was not. I loved this authors other story Stormrise but this one just fell very flat for me. I ended up DNFing it around 20 pages in. I was bored and the story just didn't grip me at all. I didn't care about the characters and I just couldn't force myself to read any further.

I couldn’t get into this book. I was 20% in and just didn’t understand what was going on, it seemed like some girl making wine with magic and that is it.

This is such a wonderfull book. A beautiful storyline and a heroine you like and love to go an an adventure with.

Thanks for letting me read this book.

This was my first book by this author, It was pretty enjoyable. I would give this book a 3.5 star rating! It was a pretty Quick and easy read!

im looking forward to reading more of this author's works! this was a compelling novel that i really felt hit all the marks on worldbuilding, character development, and writing!

I really loved this novel! My favourite part was the simmering slow-burn romance. I also enjoyed the world-building and the writing style. The main character was really enjoyable to read about as well.

The Stolen Kingdom is an enjoyable fantasy read with a murder plot, magic, and a fight for the throne.

This book has so many things that I love in a story - a magical main character, a secret royal, and romance. I really liked both Maralyth and Alac as characters and thought the premise of this book was good. The story had nice pacing and the detailed history of the world was done well. While I liked so many things about it, I was hoping for a bit more. I didn’t really find myself surprised along the way and kept waiting for an unexpected twist but it didn’t happen. Overall, this was still an entertaining read.

Still working out my thoughts on this one. I was intrigued enough to fly through this book but there wasn't anything that jumped out to me as memorable. I felt like in many ways I had read this story many times before. There were a few moments that screamed internalized misogyny with the body shaming and just representation of women but I need to unpack that a little but more.

Overall I was entertained but not wowed. Other reviewers have loved it so there is an audience but maybe not me.

Full review will be live on www.readandwander.com 22 APRIL

Please excuse any grammatical errors, or typos. I have done my best, but in reality I am not a writer.

This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.

This is a non spoiler review, because you as reader need to read this book. Also, I feel sometimes I have in the past gave away to much of the plot line. This has diminished the pleasure for would be readers.

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The Stolen Kingdom by Jillian Boehme is a rich and spectacular fantasy.

Maralyth is a vintners daughter working with her brother alongside her father. Taking care of each other and the family’s vineyard. She has stepped into her mother’s role as caretaker and cook for the vineyards working hands. Longing to be amongst the vines she struggles with the role that is placed on her shoulders. Unbeknownst to her brother and father she has a unique magical secret that only her deceased mother knew of. A secret that her own mother also possessed.

Everything takes off in this fast paced tale, when Maralyth is kidnapped and astonishing birthright becomes known to her. Forced into a political coup to overthrow the king and place Mara on the throne.With her life and the lives of those she loves threatened, Mara has no choice but to take the throne and become a better ruler than the current greedy king

Prince Alac Thungrave, is the second in line for his father’s throne. He shuns the dark magic that his father possesses, his interested lie in the fundamentals of maintaining a vineyard. Everything comes to halt when he meets Maralyth, a young lady visiting court for his brother’s wedding and is completely drawn to her. In a series of events, that leads Alac to be placed within reaching distance of the one thing he has never wanted or desired. He is also faced with fact that Mara is not all that he thinks she is, and can her secret be his salvation or his undoing.

Jillian Boehme, seamless narration is told in two distinct POV’s. Her prose flows perfectly and the characters were so well developed and I absolutely loved them.

We also are thrown into a complex political world where there are two sides to this magic tied to the land magical system. One side is healing and growth, that was gifted to the rightful King of Perin Faye, by the lands holy god. When it was wrenched away from it’s rightful owner over a hundred years before Maralyth’s time. It becomes something else entirely, it has taken on a sinister corrupted ominous, dark form of magic. Eventually corrupting the usurper and its descendants, as it is passed downward from generation to generation, into something twisted and evil.

Quotes:

“I’d fallen for her from the moment she’d first stepped out of a carriage in the courtyard, and I didn’t feel capable of unfailing. Every word poised on my tongue felt like it would lumber forth with a clumsiness that would let the world know that this girl unraveled me.”

“Regardless of my attempts at guarding my heart, he’d wormed his way

The author does a great job in some visual imagery relating to both main characters situations as they are both feeling trapped in their predicaments.

The romance was done well and perfect for a YA Fantasy. I enjoyed the political and courtly drama that made for a memorable reading experience.