Member Reviews

* Thank you NetGalley, Victory Editing NetGalley co-op and Briar Boleyn for granting me access to this book in exchange for an honest review *


As a devoted fan of Briar Boleyn's captivating "Blood of Fae" series, I was thrilled to embark on the final installment, "Empress of Fae." Initially, I believed the series was a trilogy, and I was a bit disappointed to learn that it would continue, but this revelation only heightened my anticipation for the conclusion of Morgan and Draven's extraordinary journey.

"Empress of Fae" masterfully interweaves elements of dark fantasy, romance, and intrigue, drawing the reader into a world of captivating mythology, complex characters, and plot twists. While the middle section of the book might have felt slightly drawn out, Boleyn's skillful storytelling and intricate world-building kept me engaged as she laid the foundation for the exhilarating climax.

The deepening bond between Morgan and Draven, the fierce protector and the powerful fae, was a heartwarming and compelling aspect of the story. Their scenes together were imbued with a captivating blend of tenderness, passion, and unwavering loyalty, adding depth and emotional resonance to the narrative.

Undoubtedly, the last quarter of the book was a whirlwind of action, suspense, and unexpected revelations. I found myself unable to put the book down as Boleyn masterfully orchestrated a series of twists and turns that kept me guessing until the very end.

Overall, "Empress of Fae" is a remarkable addition to the series, delivering a blend of dark fantasy, romance, and thrilling action. While I was initially disappointed that the series would continue (as I was afraid it would receive the From Blood and Ash treatment, aka becoming too dragged and boring and long for no reason), the conclusion of this installment only amplified my desire to delve further into this enchanting world. I eagerly await the next installment, so I can witness the unfolding of Morgan and Draven's destiny amidst the ever-shifting landscape of Fae politics and ancient prophecies.
I really hope I will be accepted by Net Galley and the publisher to receive an advanced copy since I loved all the books so much!

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4.25 stars
You know when you are so immersed in a book that you almost jump paragraph to paragraph and you have to remind yourself to slow down? That’s how I felt reading this book. I was obsessed by the end. My name twin, Morgan, is maybe my favorite character of all time. So flawed but strong. This series is masterful. The first book was a Camelot retelling. Then book two we are thrust into some kind of fae hunger games. Book 3 was a romantasy alongside death and destruction. I mean…most UNDERHYPED series ever. I got similar feelings reading Throne of Glass. I can’t wait for book 4!
*The only reason this wasn’t 5 stars is because some things were really far-fetched, even for a fantasy book. Maybe if the “how” was explained better…

Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for an advanced release copy in exchange for an honest review.

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Morgan, Draven and Camelot return in the third book of the series. Still highly addicting I have been enjoying this series back to back.

I would give this a very strong 3.5, I needed more from our two main characters, and Morgan began to wear on me a bit. However, the ending was exactly what I needed and was a great continuance to the series.

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Empress of the Fae is must read book but be sure to start with book 1. This is an incredibly fast paced enemies to lover series that gets better with each installment! I love Morgan she has grown so much and I love that she is coming to embrace her true heritage and dark destiny. Can she:save her people, her brother Kaye?

This installment is fraught with terrible losses, unimaginable horrors, valiant and heroic sacrifices. Can the tragedies of war be stopped can our heroes persevere to the end if they will they survive?

I honestly can’t wait to learn more about how it all began and if the relics of power can be destroyed. I couldn’t so many things but almost everything I explain would be a spoiler. Just let me.say this is a family retelling that will leave you stunned and eager for more. I can at this is dark thrilling and rivals the original story to the degree it is completely unto its own an original work that stand on its own and carries you into a completely fantastic retelling that will haunt your dreams and leave you wanting more.

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This book was outstanding. I love love love how Empress of Fae turned out. It was spicy (5/5), filled with action, romance, betrayal, and a few twists. This book jumped right from the end of Court of Claws into the storyline, ugh chef's kiss. It flowed beautifully. As I have said for the last two books in this series, the Blood of a Fae series is perfect for SJM fans. Empress of Fae was a mix of ACOTAR and TOG (Queen of Roses was more TOG, whereas Court of Claws was more ACOTAR). The ending leaves off for a perfect start to the next book.

#EmpressofFae #NetGalley

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I found the third book in the Blood of a Fae series to be a compelling read. The author tackled the fusion of two storylines from the previous two books effectively, and the dual-POV was well-executed.

I love how much of a simp Draven is for the Morgan, without any sense of emasculation — it’s a nice contrast to Arthur’s dominating male chauvinism.

I’m excited to see how the series concludes when the fourth and final book comes out in April of next year!

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Boleyn wastes no time getting right back into the story and plot as it picks up exactly where the last one ended. Being the third and final novel in the trilogy, nothing is lacking here. The steam, drama and everything else only continues to literally power on.

One thing that I have absolutely enjoyed out of their writing is the ability to write all of these small plot twists and turns. To see Morgan in a new light, even though you know damn well this was what she was born to do, is incredibly refreshing and it is so easy to see how much growth has occurred from start to finish.

Due to the dreams, the mate bond and everything else, we also get to see a lot of growth and depth in Draven. It may have been a long time coming but overall, it was just. So refreshing and sweet. As a result — the stakes here were even higher than before. With being so invested in the third book of the series, these twists and turns straight up hurt me.

I continue to love and praise Arthurian legend based novels and honestly when I expected this to be the final novel in the series? Nope. In fact I fear our author here has mastered writing huge cliffhangers that leave me speechless and screaming internally.

Thank you NetGalley, Starwater Press and Briar Boleyn for the eArc!

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Looking for an action packed adventure of an Empress of Fae on a quest to stop her brother, King Arthur, to save her other brother and her loved ones in Camelot from the wraith of the King? Look no further!

It has become no surprise that I have fallen in love with this series, Blood of A Fae, and all the characters. Full of romance, action, and loyalty and protection of a new found family! Definitely chef's kiss!

Thank you to Netgalley and Briar Boleyn for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.

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Rating: 5/5
I received an eARC for my honest opinion.

WOW, WOW! I love that the third book is just as amazing and more than the other ones. I loved that in this book you still don’t see a slow down at all but more action, more drama to unfold, mysteries, and betrayals. Oh and of course duh, romance.

This book picks up right where book two left off and it does not stop with all the impressive small plot twists throughout the book and a few aha moments. I loved that we were able to see Morgan in a different light but at the same time you know deep down that she was meant for this life. I loved the movement from the followers that still believe in the three, and I enjoyed the small amount of politics that was brought up. It really helped me to understand their reasons and to understand why a character does something that they wouldn’t normally do.

I thought Morgan's character shined even more in this book, you will see her growth in this book a lot more, with having to accept and understand the Mate bond with Draven and of course her role as an Empress of one kingdom and still being there for her little brother. I liked how she handled the situation with Fenyx and Author but at the same time I really wanted to reach into the book and just strangle them both for Morgan. I am so happy that Morgan was able to get her revenge on that asshat Fenyx because if Draven would have done it for her, I don’t know if I could still swoon over him but now I still can. WHAT A REAL FAE THAT MAN IS and SO SEXY!

I enjoyed getting to know Draven more in the dream world that Morgan and he would go to when they slept. It was nice seeing a different side to him and to understand more about his wishes and dreams that he hoped and still hopes happens. I think Draven did a lot of growing up in this book and to understand where he went wrong with Morgan and then giving her the apology was just icing on the cake.

I loved the dual POV that you get throughout the book and the way the author writes you won’t be confused on who is talking. You will be so engrossed in what is going on in the book that you won’t be able to prepare yourself for when the book is done, and you don’t want it to end yet.

I know that when the next book comes out, I will be right there waiting to buy it or hopefully I will have a chance to review it first and if that happens YAY!

I recommend it to anyone who likes dark romance, fantasy, fae, magic and retellings.

I want to thank NetGalley for allowing me the opportunity to review this book.

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Thank you NetGalley, Starwater Press and Briar Boleyn for granting me access to this book in exchange for an honest review.

This book starts where book 2 left off furthering the heart-wrenching story of Morgan and her quest to save her kingdom. This book is a dark romance so keep in mind there are some darker themes and events that occur in the story.

This story keeps building and building on the conflict between characters, between the nations, and between the main characters internally. I find myself continuing to be amazed by the way the twists are woven into the story and set this series aside as an exceptional story in its class. In this book you meet some new characters, tragically say goodbye to some, and see parts of the plot from different points of view which add more dynamic (and heart wrenching) depth to the story.
I love how Briar Boleyn makes such a stark shift from the normal tale of the Knights of the Round table.
I am so excited to see where the next book takes Morgan!

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Thank you to NetGalley and Briar Boleyn for this ARC!

Empress of Fae is the third book in the Blood of a Fae series that is a dark romantasy series inspired by the Arthurian legends. After a massive cliffhanger from book two, Morgan finds herself back in Camelot after fleeing a dark fae court and the man she tries to convince herself she doesn’t love. On the other side of the world, Draven refuses to let his beloved go and will follow her across the sea and through war to be by her side again.

In this book the stakes are even higher and I was immersed from page one! The author is masterful at writing scenes that draw you in and bring about deep emotions of disgust, hate, sadness, love, etc. and I definitely was on a rollercoaster throughout the whole book. I also love how the characters are written and watching them grow and evolve as the story unfolds.

So much is packed into this book, from reunions, to battles, pining, dreaming, and horrible spectacles, there wasn’t a dull moment! I really loved all the reveals and twists and watching all the buildup from the first two books finally have answers. And just when you think this is wrapping up to be a trilogy, BAM another plot twist to lead into the next book!

Honestly couldn’t recommend this series enough to all my romantasy girlies! From a powerful FMC to a morally grey MMC and touch her/him and die vibes, it’s such an amazing series!

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This book was definitely an improvement on the previous two books. The midpoint until the end was well done. The multiple first person PoVs were a little clunky at the beginning. The paragraph formatting of these books still annoys me, but that's a personal preference. Heavy Jennifer Armemount and ACOWAR/Sarah J Maas influence.

Content: murdering of countless infants, attempted murder, attempted r*pe, strong language, explicit s*x

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advanced reader copy of this book. This review is voluntarily written and the thoughts and opinions contained in this review are my own.

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Just because she has left...doesn't mean he's let her go.

This series really came into its own with this book, bringing in a captivating dual POV insight into Draven's thoughts. This book combined all my favourite romantasy tropes, with a fantastic story based upon Arthurian legend. Morgan battles with her heart, as well as the sins of her family, past and present, and Draven vows to be reunited with his reluctant bride.

The writing has only improved with each book, and I cannot wait for the next to see how Morgan, Draven and their friends fare in the darkness yet to come.

Thank you so much for the ARCs!

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Thank you again, Briar Boleyn, for allowing me the opportunity to read and review this series. Empress of Fae was a great continuation of the Court of Claws.

***SPOILERS***

For those just joining, the Blood of a Fae series starts with the book Queen of Roses. The series is a different take on the traditional King Arthur and Camelot. It's told from his sister Morgan's (or Morgana) POV.

Empress of Fae picks up after Morgan jumps through the portal and sees Lancelet alive.

Yeah, let’s start there. Lancelet is alive. Definitely didn’t see that coming. Thanks. I thought it was an ehh move, but as I read on and learned how she was saved, it got a bit better for me. I’m not the biggest fan of characters “coming back to life,” especially ones that were literally being eaten alive.

I did enjoy the new character POVs. It gave me a look into their minds, which is always lovely. I will say I had to go back and remind myself sometimes which character was speaking.

I definitely had a feeling Arthur’s new wife was going to be Morgan’s sister. And I was right. I was happy that she wasn’t an evil person and that she honestly did care for her sister.

I am curious to read on and learn about their father—the high fae king. I think he is trying to become a god like the Three and their siblings.

But who knows? I guess I will just have to wait for the fourth book.

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Morgan Pendragon/Morgan Le Fay returns to Camelot to stop her brother Arthur and to rescue her brother Kaye. Meanwhile, her husband Kairos Draven travels to her country to join her as they cannot be apart. How will Morgan’s powers continue to grow? Will she be able to stop Arthur’s rule of terror and unjust war? Will Draven reach her in time to help? What has happened to Morgan’s friends and compatriots while she has been away? This is the exciting third instalment in the Blood of Fae series.

Briar Boleyn has again taken us on a roller coaster of emotion, action and adventure and further explored the competing forces of good and evil. It was heart-warming to see the connection between Morgan and Draven grow and strengthen throughout the book. I also enjoyed the ongoing stories and development of the other characters.

It has been a while since I read book two in the series and it would have been helpful to have a bit more of a recap at the beginning of this book. Overall, however, it was a great continuation of the series.

Hank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in return for my review.

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Thank you NetGalley & Briar Boleyn for the ARC copy in exchange for my review.

I’m trying to pick my jaw up off the floor… Holy freaking moly. Can I bottle Draven up and put him in a cup?!

Empress of Fae is the third book in the Blood of Fae series. In this book, we learn more about the bond that Morgan and Draven share, fall madly in love with their love, and go on an epic adventure alongside of them. While the ending isn’t a cliffhanger, it’s a damn doozy.

You might like this book if:
+ You’ve read books 1 & 2 of the series
+ You’re into King Arthur
+ You like mates, mate bonds, and “touch her and unalive” tropes
+ You’ve read ACOTAR or FBAA… you’ll love this one!

Please read trigger warnings prior to reading this book; it does deal with some darker themes.

Genre: Romantasy
Tropes: Mine, Mates, Mate Bond, Bonded Animals, Burn the World Down
⭐️: 5/5, new favorite series

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4.5 rounded up to a 5. This whole book had me on the edge of my seat not knowing what to expect. I can't wait for the next one to be available. I'm obsessed.

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I have mixed feelings about this book. I enjoyed the rest of the series (enough to keep reading), but this book fell flat for me. I had to force my way through a lot of it, but because I was familiar with the characters and wanted to know what happened, I kept pushing. I think I will give the final book a go, but I am hesitant because of the lack of action in this one.
I think it's important to point out that the author is clearly talented, which is why I still want to keep reading this series. I just didn't like this particular book (it happens).

Thank you to NetGalley & publishers for access to a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!

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I didn’t enjoy this book as much as the previous two and it took me a long time to complete. It felt like a lot of talk and next to no action until the last quarter of the book. Morgan’s desire to leave out of anger urgency to help her country by herself and then regretting leaving Draven; and then reconciling didn’t seem believable to me. I felt the plot had good bones but again could have used more development overall. I loved the added political drama and secret spy plot line of Morgan’s return. The political intrigue and interconnectedness within Camelot is a fascinating. The continued incorporation of more of the legend of King Arthur aspects also made the story unique. There were afew decisions I didn’t really care for but I liked that though it will be ongoing into a. fourth book, I liked that this ending was a little more conclusive

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Okay, I just have start off saying LOOK AT THIS COVER!! Like, seriously. Idk how Briar and their team does it but all of these covers are absolutely gorgeous.

I HATED Morgan and Draven being separated (even if Morgan didn't seem to care as much as me lol) but seeing how much he was willing to go through to get her back was just *insert crying emoji here*. I really enjoyed getting to see Camelot through Morgan's eyes and how her family/friends have faired without her. I encourage everyone who picks up this book to stick with it! We get a lot of information/world building/politics throughout the book so it sometimes feels like a slog but it's all worth it.

"I'll go after her even if she doesn't want me".... just feels like it should be a red flag but here I am swooning.

Thank you Briar, NetGalley, and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-Op for letting me read this book in exchange for an honest review.

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