This was a strong start to the Fang & Fire series, it had that overall feel that I was hoping for and enjoyed getting to read this. It worked as a opening chapter and thought the overall concept was strong. Jennifer Chance does a great overall style for this type of book and enjoyed getting to read this, the writing left me wanting to read the next book and more from Jennifer Chance.

3.5 stars

Court of talons

Overall, I enjoyed reading this one!

Loved this as a story of trials and of the underdog winning out in the end (bonus that it’s a woman, of course). Also appreciated that we saw a female character that wasn’t the assassin tough gal type as I’ve seen a lot lately! She was strong, but fought strategically and with her mind and strengths more than anything. The world was intriguing and I always love when magical creatures are involved - and as much as I adore dragons it was very cool to have a huge and custom to each character type of creature which was super unique. The plot line definitely kept me intrigued.

I was VERY glad to see that there will be a sequel to this one, as the ending definitely left details out and unfinished - totally forgivable when I know I’ll be getting another fix.

The romantic aspect could’ve had more of a slow and steady build as it felt a bit jumped into - while I do generally prefer a true slow burn in that department, I do truly think it could’ve been more fleshed out in general and not just because of my personal preferences. The jump from nothing to somethin somethin felt a bit jarring.

I also felt at times that the pacing was a little off. There were times I felt like there was not enough world building to balance the pace of information we were getting on the plot or character side.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you, NetGalley.

For me, a solid 4.5 / 5. This book was surprisingly delightful. I am looking forward to the next installment.

What I liked:
- I like the main characters. Side characters could have been developed more, though.
- Caleb. Caleb is my absolute favourite! He is smart, clever, determined, courageous, funny, and full of life. I enjoyed all the scenes he was in.
- I absolutely loved the sense of despair, of impending doom and death from the third act (chapters 39-42). I felt completely hopeless alongside Talia
- When Talia finally realized "I am enough". Yeah, damn right you are!
- I got an emotional response to this book. It is a good sign; it is a sign of a good author who can draw me in when I get excited/afraid/teary-eyed for the characters.
- Chapter 43 was a wild ride.

What I did not like:
- I would have liked to have a map at the beginning to understand where all the Houses were.
- I still have unanswered questions: why did Talia pretend she was younger than Merritt? How are planes linked? How did Divhs and humans first connect; and for what purpose?
- The pacing was uneven. The book starts strong, slows to barely a crawl for almost 100 pages, then picks up. But when it picks up, oh my! It is fantastic!

What I am neutral about:
- The romance part. I don't know what Fortiss sees in Talia. He says he is drawn to her light, but I am unsure what it means. I would have liked for Fortiss to fall in love with Merritt, and then be confused about this new same-sex attraction. Let's see how this is approached in the next installment.

The book felt like a dark and magical retelling of Shakespeare's twelfth night. The tension and plot played off each other beautifully in order to make compelling stakes for the characters. As well the magic system was new and intriguing to me and made for an even more engaging read. At times the writing felt a little too nail on the head, but overall the experience was still so much fun.

To be noted, I was so engaged in reading that I did miss my train stop, so, safe to stay, the book is pretty good.

Thank you to the publishers and netgalley for allowing me this opportunity to read, rate and review this work.

Court of Talons is an entertaining story reminiscent of Mulan. A woman in a male dominated society takes a position as a warrior under disguise. Dressed as her brother, Talia, enters a competition with battles complete with magical divhs (creatures). After exposing corruption, the book ends with the FMC plotting how to continue solving the problems facing her world.

The book was an entertaining blend of fantasy with a small twist of romance that I hope will continue to grow in future books!

I would like to thank Net Galley and Oliver Heber Books for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

We follow along Talia who has to act as her brother, who dies at the beginning of the book while travelling, in a world where women are second class citizens and fight in a tournament in his stead.

I managed to read until the 40% mark but this book just didn't do it for me. The idea of separated houses, tournament till or almost till death, a fragile looking but really strong deep down FMC and the ominous vibes you get from characters is unfortunate way overdone at this point.

I also didn't get pulled in to the world at all.

I received this book as an ARC and really enjoyed this story!

I’m going to be honest, I wasn’t sure if I was going to like this book. However, I flew through the chapters as I followed Talia’s story. I found her to be an endearing FMC with a fiery spirit.

Gent was my absolute favorite and I loved how he progressed through the tournament.

I look forward to book 2 and continuing the journey of the book!

"Court of Talons" by Jennifer Chance is an exhilarating fantasy novel that grips you from the very first page and doesn’t let go. Set in a world where honor, power, and survival are dictated by a brutal tournament, this book delivers an unforgettable story filled with action, intrigue, and emotional depth.

Talia of the Tenth House, the protagonist, is a refreshing and compelling heroine who defies convention in a male-dominated world. Her journey from her house's deepest shame to its last hope is both inspiring and heart-wrenching. The stakes are incredibly high as she disguises herself as her slain brother to enter the deadly Tournament of Gold, where powerful warriors and their monstrous companions fight for glory. Talia's fierce determination, coupled with her vulnerability, makes her a character readers can’t help but root for. Her bond with her brother's beast is one of the most captivating elements of the story, creating a dynamic relationship that is both mystical and profoundly emotional.

The plot of "Court of Talons" is intricately woven with layers of mystery, suspense, and unexpected twists. From the lavish ballrooms to the brutal fighting pits, the settings are vividly described, immersing readers in a world that is both beautiful and deadly. The tension is palpable as Talia navigates this treacherous terrain, facing not only the threat of discovery but also the looming possibility of death at every turn. The addition of a conspiracy that threatens the entire realm adds depth to the narrative, raising the stakes and driving the story forward at a relentless pace.

The antagonist, Fortiss of the First House, is a brilliantly crafted character—powerful, arrogant, and dangerously seductive. His complex relationship with Talia adds an extra layer of tension to the plot, leaving readers constantly guessing his true intentions. Is he merely a rival, or could he be the one responsible for her brother’s death? This ambiguity keeps readers on edge, eagerly turning pages to uncover the truth.

One of the book’s greatest strengths is its world-building. The realm in which "Court of Talons" takes place is richly developed, with a fascinating social hierarchy, political intrigue, and a unique system of monsters bonded to warriors. This detailed world-building adds depth and texture to the story, allowing readers to become fully immersed in the epic battles, strategic maneuvering, and emotional undercurrents that define the plot.

Overall, "Court of Talons" is a masterful blend of fantasy, action, and romance. It’s a story about courage, identity, and the sacrifices one must make for the greater good. Fans of strong female protagonists, intricate plots, and immersive fantasy worlds will find this book impossible to put down. Talia’s quest to uncover the truth, protect her house, and save her realm is a thrilling ride that leaves you breathless and eagerly awaiting the next installment. Highly recommended for all lovers of epic fantasy!