That one knight the emperor hoped would die in battle and the timid, neglected princess trauma bond through political marriage while building civilization in a barren territory. In other words, Under the Oak Tree meets Greatest Estate Developer, featuring the supportive and lovely Knights of Brede, monster attacks, town planning and land development, an adorably earnest princess who wins over everyone's hearts, and not as many miscommunications as there could've been, thanks to the best advisor/wingman ever, Miche of Harnost.

Miche is my hero. Charming, observant, not afraid to tell it how it is, especially to prevent the Duke from unwittingly sabotaging his own wedding. Bane of maidens, digger of ditches. We stan Miche.

Not knowing a ton about the book beforehand, I wasn't expecting it to go so hard on the romance aspect. Marriage, intimacy, uwu...the extended scenes just aren't my thing. Also Rem, I know you really like her "large eyes" but let's chill on the possessive thoughts a little.

That aside, there's so much that I did love. Knight bros and infrastructure development (in survival mode!), it doesn't get better than that. Monsters! Mindful masons! A friendly donkey and labor rate calculations and new pantry shelves! My copy is full of highlights of beautiful or clever turns of phrase (and notes on Miche, who is always a highlight). Also, the dual POV effectively illustrates Ophele and Rem's insecurities, whereas missing either perspective might have them come across as aloof or unfeeling. (This avoids something I didn't love in the UOT light novel, where Riftan existing only as a looming giant to Maxi contributes to him coming across much less favorably than in the manhua).

This first book feels complete in its own way, but there's plenty of hooks for the rest of the six book series.

I'm loving this series so much! I can't stop thinking about the characters and the whole story of it. I recommend everyone to read this book as fast as they can because it's really good and the characters are fantastic and the story is immaculate.

OVERALL📚
This is a third person POV told through the eyes of enemies to lovers, arranged marriage, forced proximity romantasy filled with brave and handsome knights, terrifying monsters, painful secrets, shattering betrayals and of course a swoon worthy love story. This has all the makings of a high fantasy novel, right down extensive and detailed world building, politics, and magic that makes occasional appearances. I cannot even begin to imagine the amount of planning and research that went into a book of this caliber and I’m so grateful to have been able to read this debut story.

MMC 👨
Remin "Grimjaw" a 24 year old “traitor’s” son turned battle hardened war hero and knight has finally accomplished the impossible, won the long fought war Valleth, over the Andelin Valley the task set upon him by the very emperor who killed his family, nearly ending his line. He asked only 3 things in return, “The Andelin for my duchy, the Brede for my own. And your daughter for my wife.” Knowing his parents were innocent, at 17 he began his conquest.
Immediately after his victory, now 24 we find him at the estate of Aldeburke to claim his new wife, The story had been told over and over to swooning women and blushing girls but the Duke of Andelin wanted only to marry the emperor’s daughter for heirs, for his family name to live on forever protected.

FMC 👩
Ophele Agnephus, bastard daughter to the emperor, princess, exiled to live far away from any family, love or kindness. She has never seen outside the walls of her gilded prison and struggles with her shy nature as men clad in armor and dark fabric inform her she is to be married. Their first meeting goes awry with talk of insults. Ophele is torn from a terrible yet familiar home and set upon the road for the first time at a breakneck pace that often has her squeezed against the Duke on horseback. While she not miss many at Aldeburke she missed the comforts of the library and the tea and patriots she would take as she gazed longingly out windows. She finds it hard to communicate with the Duke having never had to before, and frequently drew within her own mind.

STORY (NO SPOILERS) 🔮
Their marriage and wedding night did little to ease tension as undeniable feelings and chemistry seem to flow between them only to be shattered by an assassination attempt Remin can’t seem to decide if small, quiet Ophele had a role in. Years of distrust, paranoia, and attempts like before ultimately lead to him pushing her away and emotional turmoil between the two as they try to rebuild all he lost.
You’ll find a loving and wholesome found family that seems to equally support not only the main characters but everyone woven into the tale. It’s touching to see growth, communication and help from this wide cast of characters who just want to see their friends and loved ones happy and safe, even a certain violent cook seems to have a soft spot for the new Duchess eventually.
I found lots of tiny details in the book that I’m still reeling from the utter genius of this author. From the map, owl chapter headers, pronunciation guide in the back, the glass bear, and so many heart achingly beautiful descriptions without feeling like you’re just reading a long string of words over and over for the sake of making the book longer. I truly felt like every word, punctuation and sentence had significant meaning in this gorgeous story and it has clung to me long after finishing the last page. Melissa has such a unique way of wiring something epic and love laden without making it drawn out and cheesy. The character growth, and certain people getting to know each other was incredibly satisfying for my heart and soul, this was such a healing journey.
While there isn’t a ton of comedic relief, I would say there is just the right amount and masterfully planted so you appreciate the humor even more. Most jokes are so sudden, nearly every one of them took me off guard and had me smiling or laughing aloud at the creativity and hilarious descriptors.
Whenever I realized this was a trilogy I could have jumped to the moon. I am so happy this story is continuing and we get to see more of all those characters we fell in love with. I can’t remember the last time I was this excited to read and immerse myself in a novel, Melissa makes it way to easy to lose yourself in her nearly poetic words. I can't wait to see what is in store for us in the next book.

I received an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to Melissa Cave, and Victory Editing!

All opinions and thoughts are my own. 🖤

It's been a while since I completely devoured a romantic fantasy book and, let me tell you, I flew through this story in the blink of an eye! This was my first time reading a work by this author and I am now adding her to my list. The writing style in this book is both parts easy to follow, but also vividly descriptive. I felt myself being immersed into the world she crafted as well as the characters. Each character has their own unique voice and just enough familiarity to keep you intrigued about them. And the sprinkle of romance? I held on to that thread throughout the book and did not let go! The two characters' romance definitely feels like a slow burn, but will have you on the edge of your seat for more. I highly recommend this read for anyone who loves fantasy romance and in-depth world-building.

Traitor Son is a cleverly wrought fantasy novel depicting the post-war life and struggles of Duke Remin 'Grimjaw' and his new wife Ophele, the bastard daughter of the Emperor.

It is both a romance, and a mediaeval-style fantasy, with a focus on building a new life for Remin, his knights, and his men after they re-conquered lands that had been under enemy control for decades or longer. Their new city is plagued by ghouls and devils who attack during the nights of the warmer months, meanwhile, Remin lives under the daily threat of assassination by the Emperor who destroyed his House and family when he was just a boy.

His lack of trust in Ophele causes many of the misunderstandings throughout the book, but there is also a serious lack of communication between the two that stymies their relationship. Normally I would struggle with miscommunication as a trope however, this feels appropriate to the story given that Ophele is only 17 when she is married without her consent and Remin is 24, but completely inexperienced, having spent his entire life on the battlefield. Both are exceptionally wary of each other (though for different reasons), and both are virgins when they meet.

It's a fairly long book, where surprisingly little action happens aside from Remin and Ophele's marriage (early in the book), and the ongoing issue of the nightly invading devils, but you are pulled into a complex world where each character matters, including the secondary and tertiary ones. And importantly, you know that something is brewing, so this is almost certainly setting the scene for an even more complex and exciting book two. I dived straight into Stardust Child, as soon as I finished Traitor on, as I couldn't wait!

Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC. This is my honest opinion.

I liked that the author’s note said it was their job to make sure the reader remembered the important stuff. Great dedication as well.

A couple observations.. I always have to chuckle at the trope of somebody smelling good after days unwashed on the road. I think there was mention of his horse being unnamed, then later being referred to as Lancer. There was also a whole bit about the difficulty of boar hunting, then later it’s served at a feast. I’m not saying I couldn’t have missed something and I didn’t go back to check, but when what seemed like contradictory information was given, it stuck out.

I’m surprised this is a debut novel. The world building and storytelling were solid. I was invested in characters and outcomes and read nearly the entire book in one sitting on a long flight. It was good and I will read on. (Thanks for the chance to read this ARC!)

This was my first e-book from NetGalley and I have to say, what an unexpected and amazing surprise! This story follows Remin, a brute warrior (and certified douche at times ) who’s branded a traitor by the emperor. Seeking revenge he chooses to marry the emperor’s daughter, never expecting that she would be nothing like he imagined. And before he knows it, he just might be falling for her.

If you’re a fan of romantic fantasy with enemies-to-lovers and arranged marriage tropes, this book is a must-read! The story is super engaging, easy to devour, packed with chemistry and sprinkled with some spice. I was so hooked I finished it in just two days! If you love medieval fantasy romances like I do, I highly recommend picking this one up!

This was really good and better than I thought it would be. Super addictive to read and I enjoyed the romance.

This book is a gripping tale of post-war life and the journey between two people who enters into a political marriage and how it unfolds. The beginning will hook you when you first meet Remin, a 17 year old to the hard war he fought to achieve his goals to secure his lineage through a political marriage to the Emperor's daughter and gain a duchy in return.

I devoured this book once I started reading! I love the writing, a certain unique quality to it and very fitting for the medieval-vibes of the story. I appreciate their dialogue is in character unlike romantasy with "modern" dialogue. Although I found myself shouting at the two main characters to communicate, damn it.. I understood they have to work through their traumas and heal (with time and proof of their care for each other despite the circumstances.) I love their romance, I want more of their sweet moments and relationship development!

I also enjoyed reading about managing / building the Duchy, balancing supplies, expenditure.. on top of fighting monsters in the night. Its a cosy feeling and totally satisfying when they've completed parts of Andelin Valley. The highlight of this book was the Knights wanting to name streets or areas after their own - LOVED THAT!

I loved this book. The opposites that Ophele and Remin are is just so good. Their marriage is definitely an interesting one. I loved following how they forged their relationship and how they both had their own issues in the relationship. Ophele is such a strong female while also still being innocent and timid. Remin is a soldier that has a tough shell that Ophele has to break through. I can't wait to see what happens with the next book.

He’s destined to marry the daughter of his enemy in order to keep his standing. He’s a knight in a shining armor that has no idea what to do with this princess that showed up in his life. He’s messing things up for half of the book (I just wanted to hit some sense into him, such a brute) and then grovels for her during the other half (love that for her). This was such a big growth of character and trust, especially since this is arranged marriage. I loved this book and the world building is so immersive it’s crazy.

“Where was the silent, solemn little owl he knew? She was smiling. Her eyes were so bright, so quick to see everything. Even veiled, hatted, and covered in white dust, he couldn't help thinking her beautiful. She looked like nothing so much as the clearest and bluest of skies.”

“He loved her? He was afraid to love her. Ophele, the daughter of the Emperor. How could he ever believe she was not her father's tool, placed at his side and waiting only a single moment of weakness?”

Traitor Son ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

*Traitor Son* immerses readers in the captivating world of Andelin Valley, expertly blending epic fantasy with deep human emotions.

The story follows Remin of Andelin, a fierce warrior burdened by a complicated past as he strives to build a safe haven for his people. His journey becomes even more complex with the introduction of Princess Ophele Agnephus, the emperor's secret daughter, who has the potential to change everything.

The dynamic between Remin and Ophele is electric, evolving from an uneasy political marriage into a profound exploration of trust and love amidst war and intrigue. Their growth from suspicion to affection is beautifully portrayed, keeping me invested in their relationship.

The world-building is exceptional, with a rich setting reminiscent of *Game of Thrones* and emotional depth akin to *Outlander*. The pacing allows for character development, making their moments of intimacy feel genuine and reflective.

*Traitor Son* is a heartfelt tale of resilience, redemption, and the healing power of love. It’s a must-read for fans of epic fantasy and romance, leaving readers eager for the next installment in the Empire of the Stars series. Bravo to the author for crafting such a compelling story!

This book was so mysterious! This is the first one in the series, which came out in November but will most likely read the rest of the series!! Such a good writing style and definately a good descriptive book!

“They breathed together. They fell together. They drowned together”
“But he could learn this. He could learn to endure happiness”
“In time, it would be a beauty and wonder”

Great world building and a storyline that keeps you hooked and engaged with every page. Due to his our insecurities he was slow to loving her, which was extremely frustrating at times, but once he did he was “as sure as he knew his own name.”

The scene where he tell her to kill him cause he don’t think he could take the heartbreak if it happened later or if he accidentally hurt her almost broke my heart. So emotional and just written beautifully.

I’m excited to see where this story could go, there’s so much potential and I will be seated for each release!

The perfect medieval high fantasy novel with the right amount of romance. This book is not the type that I normally read but I enjoyed it very much. The characters, the world building, and the plot were perfectly written and made me so excited to read the next book in the series. As soon as I finished, I jumped right into book 2

Many thanks to the publisher for a copy of this book.

Traitor Son is a beautifully written piece of art that reminds you of the harsh reality of what it’s like to be in a constant state of war, conditioned to kill, and the heart ache of wanting a significant other that won’t kill you in return for your affections.

A poetic and evocative epic fantasy romance with an emphasis on medieval elements and political intrigue, Traitor Son is a stunning debut novel which leaves the reader eager for more.

Following Remlin and his new wife Ophele, daughter of the Emperor and the Exile Princess, Traitor Son tells a story of loss, redemption and the grit of human nature. The world-building and character establishment in this novel are outstanding, with the lasting impacts of war and trauma on our main characters portrayed with a certain rawness that is inherently compelling. The pacing of the story was steady and focused more on scene-setting rather than high tempo action, which allowed for deeper exploration of some of the more emotional struggles between our main characters. Some of the more fantastical elements were subtle in this first book, but with heavy foreshadowing that the magical aspects will play a starring role going forward. For fans of enemies-to-lovers and slow burn romance, this is for you! The chemistry between our main characters is electric and fiery while emphasising the deep emotional connection between the two.

Traitor Son is an utterly gorgeous introduction to what will inevitably be a masterpiece of a series.

This forced proximity through an arranged marriage had me drawn in and wanting more! I loved the chivalry of knights as they travel the land and build up their new homeland, and the comraderie of their found family cast of characters make you eager for more of their adventures as much as their banter. I can't wait to read more of Remin & Ophele's story in the sequel!

Thoroughly Surprised and Impressed!

From the opening, Melissa J. Cave has a clear voice within her world building and characters. Setting the stage of a less magic dominated form of fantasy and more medieval meets unknown and known forces of evil type of fantasy, it is easy to immediately fall in love with Ophele, Remin, Miche, Wen, Eugene and the other present and unique cast of characters.

Ophele is pure and naive but brilliant and clever; an isolated but curious and self taught woman of noble birth but a lifetime of poor treatment yields a sophisticated blend of characters from across the fantasy genre. Her subtle but unwavering brilliance and wit along with physical limitations in way of strength/health reminds me so much of Violet from Fourth Wing while also her sheltered upbringing, lack of experience and limited understanding of the world including politics and the like reminds me of Poppy from From Blood and Ash; two characters I will always respect and love. But Ophele also has something unique all her own, a determination to make the lives of those who have been hurt better with such little concerns or conscious awareness of the cost to herself. Ophele's compassion and empathy in spite of her past of trauma and fear, sets her apart from other characters within this genre. I felt her fear, anxiety, shame and desire to be better deep in my soul. Yes there are moments when your heart can't take anymore how scared, meek, anxious and traumatized she is but at the same time those moments are followed by humor, cleverness, but also a strong unwavering courage when it comes to showing compassion, kindness and empathy.

Remin is the perfect blend of passion, realist obsessive fixations, emotion and mental walls, a dark and traumatizing past, a committed need for vengeance, his protective streak, and the level of "girl dumb", in that he knows not how to speak, act or treat a woman (very Adam from Seven Brides from Seven brothers telling Millie to toughen up or Dwight awkwardly patting Pam's shoulder as she cries because no man can know how to treat a woman when she cries) let alone care for one who has never walked more than a mile from her home, is endearing and adorable. The conflict and emotional torture he inflicts to on himself in regards to distrust, the struggle to weigh the price of vengeance and what is proving to be forceful a good, pure heart makes him a new favorite book boyfriend for me! Good god his BIG romantic gesture had me tearing up just because of how much Melissa J. Cave allows us to truly get to know him and how in that moment I felt him lay it all on the line and truly mean every word.

Although not a traditional dual POV, Traitor Son, gives thorough and detailed accounts from both main characters. Never boring or too descriptive or whiny, both characters are open with themselves about their flaws, shame, and guilt but struggle to be completely honest with themselves in which they actually acknowledge and accept they are not the cause, culprit, criminal or reason for the bad things that have happened to them or because of them. Ophele's guilt and shame at being related by blood to the people responsible for Remin's pain and suffering, never feels forced or fake but is rather an understandable motivator due to all the loss and political warmongering she's been exposed to from a young age. Ophele wants to believe it is her duty to attone for sins of others; to make amends and right past wrongs. In reality, she knows and remains conflicted between shame/guilt on behalf of the abusers and rage/vengeance towards those same abusers for hurting anyone. Remin similarly occulates between affirmation that his actions and behavior toward Ophele is the only logical, smart, safe way to behave but also feel imense confusion and fear that he has wrongfully held her accountable for things that could never be her fault. His behavior and actions speaks to anyone who has had their trust violated on so many levels, if actually can destroy a part of a person. But as most would know from therapy, to heal the broken or missing pieces you must speak up, be honest, ask for help and love which is exactly how the book leaves us: a "on a path to healing" Ophele and Remin; although no one would be foolish enough to believe it will be smooth sailing here on out. The slow burn is perfect with just enough "will they won't they" and light sprinkle of spice to keep me rooting for these two!!!

Melissa J. Cave is a clever author in a mature and professional way. Her use of dialogue, detailed description, indepth characters thoughts/reflections, succinct use of language and prose all wrapped around carefully, lightly laid out clues that our lovebirds aren't quite to paradise yet; many challenges await our heroes on the horizon that I'm certain will rest them individually and as a couple. I swear to God, if anything happens to Miche or Eugene or Wen...I'll....I'll...I'll be devastated and never ever the same.

Do yourself a favor and dive into this unique and thrilling journey! If you do so soon you'll be just in time for the sequel Stardust Child which I'm so excited to read!

This book was amazing! The world was wonderful and it was so well written. This book has so many of my favorite tropes and I would highly recommend this book!

First of all, I DEVOURED this book. Wow. What a gem. This is not the story of a long, brutal, grueling war, but everything that comes after. Rebuilding, starting anew, and creating a vision of the future. Though the war has been won, there is still so much to do and still-looming threats to contend with.

Remin Grimjaw is feared and revered across the empire. Known as a hero, a knight-general, and Duke of Andelin, he has waged and won a war spanning the last seven years where he has never lost a battle and is now ready to collect what he is owed by the Divine Emperor, including a marriage to his daughter. Ophele has been exiled as punishment for her mother’s betrayal to the empire and has never stepped foot out of her abusive guardian’s property. Suddenly, she is stolen away from everything she has ever known to start a new life miles and miles away in the valley of Andelin, where Remin plans to create the new jewel of the empire. He is gruff, war-hardened, and knows absolutely nothing about women, and Ophele just wants to survive and make up for the wrongs her father has done.

I wasn’t sure what to expect when starting this book but was so delighted and surprised at how quickly I was sucked into this story and the depth and emotions explored. It is so refreshing to have characters with real flaws and motivations that make sense and stay true to character. Remin is expecting a spoiled noble lady but Ophele is not the typical strong-willed, sassy, outspoken heroine. She is naive, alone, scared, and all of the other things that you would expect from a young girl who had to bear the consequences of other’s actions her whole life, but she is strong and brave in her own way. And for Remin, underneath that hardened war general exterior, he is paranoid and extremely cautious after people attempting to kill him since he was nine years old and losing his entire family. He just wants to rebuild the home that was taken from him and dreams of creating a new legacy that will stand generations. And it is so heartwarming seeing how they slowly learn how to fit together and help each other. They are both so endearing, but especially Remin who has lived lifetimes through battle but is an awkward mess when it comes to having a wife. I think my favorite thing about this book was watching their tumultuous relationship grow into something genuine and beautiful.

Melissa J Cave does an incredible job at building a world that feels so immersive and real and making characters come alive off the pages. Her writing has made me emotionally invested in infrastructural development, which is something I never thought I would say, as well as a certain donkey, a ferocious cook, and the rest of the Brede Knights. I felt dread when things got dicey. I gasped, and laughed, and cried and was on the edge of my seat almost the whole time. I really loved it and felt like this was such a unique story and I can’t wait to see where it goes. And the foundations were set beautifully for the rest of the series. I daresay this has become my favorite read of the year and I cannot wait to dive into the sequel and find out what happens next!

I recommend this to lovers of medieval fantasy, unique characters, vast (and literal) worldbuilding, hard-earned romance, fighting demons and monsters, learning to overcome emotional trauma, and found family.