So I have mixed feelings about this book. Mostly frustrated.
I think the world building is unique, well-done, and probably the real star of the show for me. I loved the concept of the different types of fae, the war and politics that the different cultures and magic bring to the plot. All so interesting. But I was frustrated that there wasn't more depth or exploration of how the Trolde are different (or similar) to the fae. Or even why the humans misunderstand what troldefolk are (or how the slur of troll has stuck around despite their minimal interactions).
I think that the MMC and FMC are well written and there is a lot of layering and depth to both of their characters. We see A LOT of there internal conflicts and personal baggage. But I was so frustrated that this plotline seemed to barely move. This entire book felt stretched just too far and knowing that there are 2 more books, I don't think that the structure can support the slow movement that we see. I don't think that this series can hold the support of over 1000 pages across 3 books.
A lot of these could boil down to this book being New Adult, which is not a personal favorite genre of mine. I think that there are still people who love the slow burn angsty romantasy books that will really enjoy this. It's not bad, its I personally like many other books in this genre with these tropes a lot more than I could like this one.

Full disclosure I did immediately go to Kindle Unlimited to binge the rest of the series, but I really didn't like the 2nd book and didn't bother to read the 3rd. This is for better or worse I think the best in the series so if you're iffy on this one I personally wish I hadn't read another 400 pages to find out I wasn't feeling it.

This is a beautifully written fantasy with a complex and engaging plot. The world-building is exceptional, and the characters’ journeys are deeply moving. A must-read for romantasy fans!

Two kingdoms in need of an alliance, so what else is there to do but marry the Trolde Shadow King, King Vor, to the lovely human princess Ilsevel... so his kingdoms= will receive magical aide and hers will get the Trolde warriors to help protect her kingdom.
But nothing is ever that simple... especially as Vor finds himself enamored with Ilsevel's elder sister Faraine, who's kept out of court, due to a chronic illness and inability to control her gifts.
Unfortunately when Faraine's sisters are killed enroute to the ceremony there, of course, nothing else to do but disguise Faiaine as Ilsevel and send her in her sister's place. Mourning and afraid, and maybe a little enamored herself, Faraine will do so for the good of her kingdom.
A slow burn of a love story, a new world in revealed in the underground Trolde kingdom, secrets revealed... a very fun read that switches between Vor and Faraine's pov.