I received an ARC from NetGalley.

Overall I was pleasantly surprised by this book. It's a solid YA fantasy that does a lot of things right. Told from interchanging POVs of the two main characters, Baron and Aria, the book dives into a world of those without magic, i.e. the ones in power, and those with magic, i.e. the ones persecuted. The book does a good job of building out this world, at least as far as the magic system works. There's two main groups: stone casters, or those who can control solid material, and then fluid casters, those who can control fluids (including blood). But there's also other types, including shapeshifters, which are viewed with even more animosity by those without magic. This is a pretty common trope in YA fantasy (using magic as a stand-in for race, sex, etc.), and while it never really delves into the complexities of how such discriminations actually work, it does at least avoid treating the topic too casually, I thought.

I also really enjoyed the growing romance between Baron and Aria. No instalove here! There's initial attraction, but it's clear it starts as just that and deeper feelings come after a believable developing relationship. And Baron truly came off as a believably good guy - I loved how he often responded to rude characters.

I did have some issues. The book got off to a slow start, and honestly I don't think the curse ever really made sense. Also, this is a VERY Anglo-influenced world setting. Which isn't necessarily a bad thing (although certainly overdone), but the author did seem to rely on this instead of providing details of what the physical world was like. I would have liked more description to help me picture what it was like.

But mostly I enjoyed it, especially once Aria and Baron actually started communicating with each other more.

I received a copy through NetGalley for review.


Casters and Crowns is a delightfully fresh, fantasy novel. It's light on romance, and most of their courtship is in written letters. Which was extra sweet.

Aria is the crown princess, she's lived her entire life trying to be her overbearing father's - perfect heir. And failing at every turn. Her father lives with the belief that one can never go back on a decision and that the crown is always right. Failure is not an option.

Magic and the people that perform it- Casters are treated as second class citizens, branded at the age of 12, and treated with general distain by the non magic class.
Baron Reeves is a Caster, a Fluid Caster- that meaning that he can transform any liquid into poison if he wishes, but wouldn't. His father has passed and as the eldest should receive his father's title of Lord, and be a member of court.

In the middle of all this a Caster has been killed by the direction of the King for spying, a young boy of just 15 years old. Setting off an ultimatum with the Caster Faction, lead by an angry, grieving mother.

And really it's about living under extreme pressure, and learning how to navigate yourself, how these characters handle the pressure. One that feels the crushing weight, one that is so torn down they curse a kingdom, and another who knows their father would want them to be better even with all the obstacles. It's about the imperfections of family and how they try to protect each other, even when it's wrong.

Aria and Baron's genuine connection really make this story something special, even with their differences, Baron's wild twin younger brothers constantly brawling with each other, Aria's impending curse with a countdown, they support and rally one another, and overcome their personal roadblocks to meet in the middle, and that it turns out they had the means to heal the kingdom all along.

First of all, this cover is stunning. I love all the details. Second, Aria and Baron are the best. I loved watching their understanding of each other grow. The letters! And Baron’s brothers were great side characters. This is a lower angst fantasy that would be great for newbie fantasy readers. I do think there could have been more world building. More about the country and the magic, so the curse and the reasons for the rebellion would have been better explained. A little more buildup to what was happening. Overall, a sweet love story that I really enjoyed.

I adored this book! A light but captivating fantasy, with easy to follow world building and magic system. All of the characters were fun and engaging. I thought the main characters growth and  development as both individuals and together was so enjoyable to read. I love this world and hope there will be a sequel to explore other characters and their stories!

Would definitely recommend this book!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this advanced copy, all thoughts are my own!

This enchanting fantasy novel is a breath of fresh air, offering a cozy, immersive experience that captivates from start to finish. The dual perspectives of Aria and Baron are particularly engaging, with each character's struggle to live up to their father's legacy providing a rich narrative foundation. Their parallel journeys of growth and self-discovery are exquisitely portrayed, underscoring a poignant theme of self-compassion and the acceptance of the essential nature of mistakes in the learning process.

This novel's world-building and magic systems are refreshingly simple yet effective, creating a story that is easy to follow without sacrificing depth. This makes it an ideal read for those seeking a more accessible entry point into the fantasy genre. The expertly balanced pacing ensures the story unfolds naturally while keeping the reader thoroughly engaged.

Romance is woven lightly yet effectively into the narrative, adding just the right amount of warmth without overpowering the plot. Princess Aria's quest to break a deadly curse, coupled with Baron Reeves' internal struggle to unite a kingdom, creates a compelling storyline that grips the reader's attention.

Should Lowham choose to explore this universe further, it will undoubtedly be met with anticipation. This novel is a true gem for anyone seeking a well-crafted, standalone fantasy that resonates long after the final page.

Thank you to Elizabeth Lowham, Shadow Mountain Publishing, and the NetGalley team for providing me with this e-ARC!

This book was a very difficult book to read and understand. She’s cursed to not be able to sleep, but several times she falls asleep. There’s so little description that I’m confused about who the characters are and how they develop the way they do. It’s lacking any emotion or excitement.

#CastersandCrowns #NetGalley

Princess Aria has kept marks of all of her mistakes. When she goes against her father's wishes and meets with Widow Morgan, who is a caster, she finds herself in the middle of a curse. At night, everyone in the castle falls asleep, and nothing can wake them. Princess Aria wishes she could sleep, but the curse keeps her awake at night, and she gets snatches of sleep during the day. Aria sees no choice but to go to another castor for help. Baron Reeves is the one she turns to for help. If only she could break the curse and find peace for all. This book was so good.