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The Halfling Saga #2
A Shadow Crown
To the kingdom, Keera is the king’s Blade, his most feared and trusted spy and assassin. But in the shadows, she works with Prince Killian and his Shadow—the dark, brooding Fae, Riven, who sets her blood on fire. Together, they plot to kill a tyrant king.
In Myrelinth, the lush, secret city of trees, Fae, Elves, and Halflings like Keera live in harmony. But Keera cannot escape her past: her crimes against her own people have followed her all the way to the Faeland. There is a traitor in their midst, and Keera is the top suspect.
Keera finds comfort in the allies that have become her family. She swore she would never open her heart again after a loss she barely survived. But she will soon find she has more to lose than she ever imagined.
In Myrelinth, the lush, secret city of trees, Fae, Elves, and Halflings like Keera live in harmony. But Keera cannot escape her past: her crimes against her own people have followed her all the way to the Faeland. There is a traitor in their midst, and Keera is the top suspect.
Keera finds comfort in the allies that have become her family. She swore she would never open her heart again after a loss she barely survived. But she will soon find she has more to lose than she ever imagined.
480 pages, Paperback
First published May 9, 2023
883 people are currently reading
20453 people want to read
About the author
Melissa Blair
7 books1,952 followersMelissa (she/her/kwe) is an Anishinaabekwe of mixed ancestry living in Turtle Island. She splits her time between Treaty 9 in Northern Ontario and the unceded territory of the Algonquin Anishinabeg in Ottawa, Canada. She has a graduate degree in Applied Linguistics and Discourse Studies, loves movies, and hates spoons. Melissa has a BookTok account where she discusses her favorite kinds of books including Indigenous and queer fiction, feminist literature, and non-fiction. A Broken Blade is her first novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,588 reviews
July 7, 2024
✅ Gorgeous cover
✅ Strong, but flawed and morally grey MC
✅ LGBTQ rep
✅ Slow burn romance
✅ Politics
✅ Lies and scheming
✅ Pace and plot
✅ Found family
✅ Magic, faes, and elves
❗️❗️Trigger warnings: colonialism, deaths, alcoholism, self-harm, mention of torture, and some suicidal ideation (brief)
4.5 stars
A Shadow Crown picks up exactly where Broken Blade ended. Keera just realized that she’s been lied to by Syrra, Nikolai, and Riven, and while she is very unhappy about it, she needs to get over it quickly in order to work with the Elverin to kill the King. To add even more pressure on her shoulder, the king decides to give Keera a deadline to bring him the Shadow’s head. Keera has until the next full moon or the king will start killing her Shades in retribution for Keera’s incompetence.
The politics become more important in this sequel, as Keera is now truly working with the Elverin to find a way to kill the King and topple the crown entirely. She has to earn their trust, which is no easy feat since she is responsible for the death of many halflings, and she also needs to continue reporting to the King about her mission to find and kill the Shadow, without him of the Dagger being the wiser about Keera’s true whereabouts. The worldbuilding expands too, as Keera is now staying with the Halflings and rebels. We got to discover their secret city hidden in a forest, and it felt so magical.
Keera is a flawed, but amazing main character that’s very easy to like. She struggles with her past addiction, with the guilt for everything she did as the King’s Blade, yet she continues to put her life at risk and give her everything to help save as many halflings as she can. She has inner demons, and she doesn’t just push them down and try to hide them. She forces herself to learn to live with them, and she even started to share her past and try to forgive herself for some of her past actions. Her character has grown since the first book, and there is room for even more growth in the next book.
There was the beginning of a found family in the first book and I was so happy because it’s a trope I adore. It continued in this book, and the author did a wonderful job of fleshing out all the characters and deepening their connections in meaningful manners. Overall, the pace is slower, and there is less action, but it’s all about character development and politics. The pieces are being moved and with this intense and twisty ending, the next book promises to be engaging and more action-packed.
Although there is romance in this book, and Keera and Riven’s relationship slowly progresses, romance is not the focal point of this series. It’s a slow-burn romance, with some smut in this sequel, but while this relationship is important to Keera and Riven helps her become better and love herself more, her main focus remains the halfling and killing the king. The romance is nicely woven into the plot, but it doesn’t take too much room or cloud Keera’s judgment. There was also a teeny tiny hint of a maybe-potential love triangle? I am not sure if the author will pursue this or if it was a one-time thing, but I have to say that I am intrigued. While I like the strength of Keera and Riven's bond, I also like this third character who seemed to be a least a little bit interested in Keera... We'll see I guess...
Rest assured though, that even if the romance is not the focus of this book, there are still many sweet and heartwarming moments between Keera and Riven, and seeing how Keera allowed herself to be vulnerable with Riven, and how he was always there to support her made me like him even more. That being said, I sadly feel that Riven was a little useless in this book. Besides being there to help Keera, he doesn’t do much. He didn’t feel as involved in the rebellion as in the first book, and I hope this will change in the next book because at times it felt like he was a different character than in the first book.
1. Broken Blade ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
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✅ Strong, but flawed and morally grey MC
✅ LGBTQ rep
✅ Slow burn romance
✅ Politics
✅ Lies and scheming
✅ Pace and plot
✅ Found family
✅ Magic, faes, and elves
❗️❗️Trigger warnings: colonialism, deaths, alcoholism, self-harm, mention of torture, and some suicidal ideation (brief)
4.5 stars
A Shadow Crown picks up exactly where Broken Blade ended. Keera just realized that she’s been lied to by Syrra, Nikolai, and Riven, and while she is very unhappy about it, she needs to get over it quickly in order to work with the Elverin to kill the King. To add even more pressure on her shoulder, the king decides to give Keera a deadline to bring him the Shadow’s head. Keera has until the next full moon or the king will start killing her Shades in retribution for Keera’s incompetence.
The politics become more important in this sequel, as Keera is now truly working with the Elverin to find a way to kill the King and topple the crown entirely. She has to earn their trust, which is no easy feat since she is responsible for the death of many halflings, and she also needs to continue reporting to the King about her mission to find and kill the Shadow, without him of the Dagger being the wiser about Keera’s true whereabouts. The worldbuilding expands too, as Keera is now staying with the Halflings and rebels. We got to discover their secret city hidden in a forest, and it felt so magical.
Keera is a flawed, but amazing main character that’s very easy to like. She struggles with her past addiction, with the guilt for everything she did as the King’s Blade, yet she continues to put her life at risk and give her everything to help save as many halflings as she can. She has inner demons, and she doesn’t just push them down and try to hide them. She forces herself to learn to live with them, and she even started to share her past and try to forgive herself for some of her past actions. Her character has grown since the first book, and there is room for even more growth in the next book.
There was the beginning of a found family in the first book and I was so happy because it’s a trope I adore. It continued in this book, and the author did a wonderful job of fleshing out all the characters and deepening their connections in meaningful manners. Overall, the pace is slower, and there is less action, but it’s all about character development and politics. The pieces are being moved and with this intense and twisty ending, the next book promises to be engaging and more action-packed.
Although there is romance in this book, and Keera and Riven’s relationship slowly progresses, romance is not the focal point of this series. It’s a slow-burn romance, with some smut in this sequel, but while this relationship is important to Keera and Riven helps her become better and love herself more, her main focus remains the halfling and killing the king. The romance is nicely woven into the plot, but it doesn’t take too much room or cloud Keera’s judgment. There was also a teeny tiny hint of a maybe-potential love triangle? I am not sure if the author will pursue this or if it was a one-time thing, but I have to say that I am intrigued. While I like the strength of Keera and Riven's bond, I also like this third character who seemed to be a least a little bit interested in Keera... We'll see I guess...
Rest assured though, that even if the romance is not the focus of this book, there are still many sweet and heartwarming moments between Keera and Riven, and seeing how Keera allowed herself to be vulnerable with Riven, and how he was always there to support her made me like him even more. That being said, I sadly feel that Riven was a little useless in this book. Besides being there to help Keera, he doesn’t do much. He didn’t feel as involved in the rebellion as in the first book, and I hope this will change in the next book because at times it felt like he was a different character than in the first book.
1. Broken Blade ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
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January 26, 2025
Accidental buddy read with Kendall!💖
I feel like this book might’ve been rushed?? Some of the sentences had me blinking at the page like, “Did autocorrect write this?” But KEERA!!! I LOVE KEERA!!! She’s out here fighting for her life, and I’m just along for the ride, cheering her on like an over-invested sports fan.
And that one-sided love triangle?? What the fuck was that? It wasn’t even a triangle—it was more like a straight line with a random dot floating off to the side, hoping for attention. I was cringing so hard I almost folded myself into another dimension.
Despite that, the world building slapped, and the drama had me hooked. Would I read it again? Absolutely. Would I still roll my eyes at that love “triangle”? Every damn time.
I feel like this book might’ve been rushed?? Some of the sentences had me blinking at the page like, “Did autocorrect write this?” But KEERA!!! I LOVE KEERA!!! She’s out here fighting for her life, and I’m just along for the ride, cheering her on like an over-invested sports fan.
And that one-sided love triangle?? What the fuck was that? It wasn’t even a triangle—it was more like a straight line with a random dot floating off to the side, hoping for attention. I was cringing so hard I almost folded myself into another dimension.
Despite that, the world building slapped, and the drama had me hooked. Would I read it again? Absolutely. Would I still roll my eyes at that love “triangle”? Every damn time.
July 6, 2025
4⭐️
This series has yet to disappoint; THIS WAS SO GOOD!! When I grabbed the first book in this series, I had no idea I would love it so much but here we are.
The characters in this book are just one of the many things I love. Keera and her attiude never cease to amaze me like this girl is loyal to a FAULT and I adore that about her. Each character in this series so far has their own unique personality and I think that adds so much to the story. Keera and Riven are probably up there as one of my favorite romantic fantasy couples. I love them with my entire being, ESPECIALLY Riven. Their chemistry is written so well and their love and care for each other just comes so...naturally.
Not only are the FMC and MMC amazing characters, but this book would not be the same, or even as good, without the side characters. I like how the author knew just the right moments to add comedic relief and really draw out those quirky and funny personalities while also keeping it serious and somber when it needed to be. I've noticed some authors don't know how to do that very well, but Melissa Blair is definitely not one of them!!
The politics and magic system in this book are just so incredible. The story and plot are so riveting and entertaining and make you want to binge this entire book in one sitting; I could not put this down once I picked it up! For a fantasy book, this is relatively short but it doesn't even feel like that because there's so much going on and you're never bored. Everything that is put into this story makes sense and it keeps your attention.
This series is so good so far I want it injected into my veins at this point. Randomly picking this book up at Barnes simply because it sounded good has to have been one of my smarter choices. I cannot recommend this series enough! It's got a little bit of everything: tension, angst, love, betrayal, grief. That's not even me going into the world and how magical it is. This story is so immersive and I love the feeling of being in the story with the characters.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
𝓟𝓻𝓮-𝓡𝓮𝓪𝓭:
I am so so excited to continue this series!! The first one was sooo good I just couldn't wait any longer 😻🩵
This series has yet to disappoint; THIS WAS SO GOOD!! When I grabbed the first book in this series, I had no idea I would love it so much but here we are.
The characters in this book are just one of the many things I love. Keera and her attiude never cease to amaze me like this girl is loyal to a FAULT and I adore that about her. Each character in this series so far has their own unique personality and I think that adds so much to the story. Keera and Riven are probably up there as one of my favorite romantic fantasy couples. I love them with my entire being, ESPECIALLY Riven. Their chemistry is written so well and their love and care for each other just comes so...naturally.
Not only are the FMC and MMC amazing characters, but this book would not be the same, or even as good, without the side characters. I like how the author knew just the right moments to add comedic relief and really draw out those quirky and funny personalities while also keeping it serious and somber when it needed to be. I've noticed some authors don't know how to do that very well, but Melissa Blair is definitely not one of them!!
The politics and magic system in this book are just so incredible. The story and plot are so riveting and entertaining and make you want to binge this entire book in one sitting; I could not put this down once I picked it up! For a fantasy book, this is relatively short but it doesn't even feel like that because there's so much going on and you're never bored. Everything that is put into this story makes sense and it keeps your attention.
This series is so good so far I want it injected into my veins at this point. Randomly picking this book up at Barnes simply because it sounded good has to have been one of my smarter choices. I cannot recommend this series enough! It's got a little bit of everything: tension, angst, love, betrayal, grief. That's not even me going into the world and how magical it is. This story is so immersive and I love the feeling of being in the story with the characters.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
𝓟𝓻𝓮-𝓡𝓮𝓪𝓭:
I am so so excited to continue this series!! The first one was sooo good I just couldn't wait any longer 😻🩵
September 27, 2023
okay I never wrote a review for this book and at this point I dont think I ever will write something very Official so here's my thoughts:
-where A Broken Blade was about assimilation and surviving away from community, A Shadow Crown is about reconnecting with that same community and making amends for harm caused
-this book is so leisurely in its pacing, as it takes the time to build up backstory and world-building and lore that adds SO much depth. it feels like we as an audience are getting the time to settle in and build ourselves up for the inevitable chaos and fast-pacedness of the last two books in the series
-everyone is disabled! surprise!! I love the way this book doesn't shy away from the inherent mass-disabling that colonialism causes
-it's so weird reading a scene in a published book that was written just as a little bit for you and your friends (also i'm still so honored and floored by this book being dedicated to my friend group, I will cry if I think about it too long)
-honestly I think I enjoyed this book more than the first one
-GOD THAT ENDING IM STILL IN SHOCK
CW: violence, colonialism, grief, self-harm, PTSD, suicidal thoughts, addition, war, racism, dead bodies, fire, child death, human experimentation (past), child abuse (past), confinement (past)
-where A Broken Blade was about assimilation and surviving away from community, A Shadow Crown is about reconnecting with that same community and making amends for harm caused
-this book is so leisurely in its pacing, as it takes the time to build up backstory and world-building and lore that adds SO much depth. it feels like we as an audience are getting the time to settle in and build ourselves up for the inevitable chaos and fast-pacedness of the last two books in the series
-everyone is disabled! surprise!! I love the way this book doesn't shy away from the inherent mass-disabling that colonialism causes
-it's so weird reading a scene in a published book that was written just as a little bit for you and your friends (also i'm still so honored and floored by this book being dedicated to my friend group, I will cry if I think about it too long)
-honestly I think I enjoyed this book more than the first one
-GOD THAT ENDING IM STILL IN SHOCK
CW: violence, colonialism, grief, self-harm, PTSD, suicidal thoughts, addition, war, racism, dead bodies, fire, child death, human experimentation (past), child abuse (past), confinement (past)
May 8, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley and Union Square & Co for this earc
First, can we all acknowledge the fact that if Keera swore an oath to the Elverin and told them the truth right away we wouldn’t need this whole book? Okay! I’m glad we agreed.
Now, let’s take it apart. I’m gonna start with, I take “mates” trop very seriously. Once you tell me the mail love interests are mate that’s it. So why on earth would you write scenes where Keera is interested or almost kissing Killian??? For WHAT? Why make up an unnecessary love triangle with two BROTHERS no less??? Cmon. And the scene when Keera tells Riven that there’s a chance there are only together because of their bond? Seriously. I can stop right here. That would be enough for me to stop reading.
For the rest of it, there were scenes with the found family that were interesting but we didn’t need a whole second book for it.
Also, I said it before and I’ll say it again and again. I DONT do books with more than two people in a relationship even if it’s only mentioned in the background. Not my thing. Will NEVER be okay with it.
The whole ending felt super rushed and scene felt very cut off. Like Keera almost died saving Nikolai’s mom but when she wakes up her and Riven almost have sex???? Made no sense.
They finally find a way to kill the king just to find him dead after Damion was trying to kill him for a decade???? And of course he was behind everything all along.
Overall, I couldn’t for the life of me understand where the plot, if you can call it that, was going. With all the history we learned in this book, just to learn that the light fae is never coming back?
This book just felt like rushed and unfinished work which made me very said. I think it would made a much better duopoly.
First, can we all acknowledge the fact that if Keera swore an oath to the Elverin and told them the truth right away we wouldn’t need this whole book? Okay! I’m glad we agreed.
Now, let’s take it apart. I’m gonna start with, I take “mates” trop very seriously. Once you tell me the mail love interests are mate that’s it. So why on earth would you write scenes where Keera is interested or almost kissing Killian??? For WHAT? Why make up an unnecessary love triangle with two BROTHERS no less??? Cmon. And the scene when Keera tells Riven that there’s a chance there are only together because of their bond? Seriously. I can stop right here. That would be enough for me to stop reading.
For the rest of it, there were scenes with the found family that were interesting but we didn’t need a whole second book for it.
Also, I said it before and I’ll say it again and again. I DONT do books with more than two people in a relationship even if it’s only mentioned in the background. Not my thing. Will NEVER be okay with it.
The whole ending felt super rushed and scene felt very cut off. Like Keera almost died saving Nikolai’s mom but when she wakes up her and Riven almost have sex???? Made no sense.
They finally find a way to kill the king just to find him dead after Damion was trying to kill him for a decade???? And of course he was behind everything all along.
Overall, I couldn’t for the life of me understand where the plot, if you can call it that, was going. With all the history we learned in this book, just to learn that the light fae is never coming back?
This book just felt like rushed and unfinished work which made me very said. I think it would made a much better duopoly.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 24, 2024
« There’s only you. Before, now, and for however long you’ll have me » ❤️🔥
🔸 Found family
🔸 Shadow daddy & morally grey MCs
🔸 Real friendship (men & women)
🔸 Complex magic system
🔸 Multi species (elves, faes, humans)
🔸 Very slow burn
🔸 Strong characters who are flawed
I was so happy to fall back into this universe and feel the exact same way as when I read A broken blade. I can’t get enough of this series - I was actually sad to have finished this book (I preordered the next one already).
This series (is in no way a cozy fantasy) feels like a warm bath after a cold day in the snow for me. Deep attachment to those characters and this world.
The world building is lush & the characters are multi layered
I can’t wait for book 3 🥹
🔸 Found family
🔸 Shadow daddy & morally grey MCs
🔸 Real friendship (men & women)
🔸 Complex magic system
🔸 Multi species (elves, faes, humans)
🔸 Very slow burn
🔸 Strong characters who are flawed
I was so happy to fall back into this universe and feel the exact same way as when I read A broken blade. I can’t get enough of this series - I was actually sad to have finished this book (I preordered the next one already).
This series (is in no way a cozy fantasy) feels like a warm bath after a cold day in the snow for me. Deep attachment to those characters and this world.
The world building is lush & the characters are multi layered
I can’t wait for book 3 🥹
Read
January 22, 2024DNF. Trading in the first book (that I loved) and this one and not buying the beautiful third book. I just can’t. I was really hoping to have a new series to love. Whatever …. Sigh
Mel 🖤🐶🐺🐾
Mel 🖤🐶🐺🐾
December 29, 2024
Soulmates with a dash of love triangle goodness? Don't mind if I do.
I know that, logically, Keera is going to end up with Riven, who I want her to be with, but I can't help but love the little moments she has with Killian as well. I knew based on the first book that *something* would come of it and it has.
But the romance isn't a huge focus of the book, it's plot heavy, and we got such a nice world & lore expansion in this one. It was so much, that I couldn't binge it as fast as I did the first book and had to let it settle a bit.
Now, I'm not sure I like all the answers we got , but I appreciate them all the same.
My favourite thing is probably all the character development, not just on Keera's end, but the whole found family too. I love them all to bits, and hope they all make it to the very end.
With that said, the ending was a bit odd. We've been building up towards this one event throughout both books, and then it turned out to be kinda underwhelming? Like, that's NOT how that should've happened, no way.
So for that I'm lowering my rating to a 4.5, but I really enjoyed this book, and can't wait to jump into the next two.
I know that, logically, Keera is going to end up with Riven, who I want her to be with, but I can't help but love the little moments she has with Killian as well. I knew based on the first book that *something* would come of it and it has.
But the romance isn't a huge focus of the book, it's plot heavy, and we got such a nice world & lore expansion in this one. It was so much, that I couldn't binge it as fast as I did the first book and had to let it settle a bit.
Now, I'm not sure I like all the answers we got , but I appreciate them all the same.
My favourite thing is probably all the character development, not just on Keera's end, but the whole found family too. I love them all to bits, and hope they all make it to the very end.
With that said, the ending was a bit odd. We've been building up towards this one event throughout both books, and then it turned out to be kinda underwhelming? Like, that's NOT how that should've happened, no way.
So for that I'm lowering my rating to a 4.5, but I really enjoyed this book, and can't wait to jump into the next two.
January 23, 2025
Accidental buddy read with ashlyn 🤭
Some things to expect inside:
~ First person
~ Slow ❤️🔥
~ The weird one sided love triangle no one wanted
~ Badass FMC
~ LGBTQ+ Representation
~ 🌶️/5 spice rating
I’m so glad I dived into this world again, it was such a fun… but sad time. The plot got a lot deeper in this book and it's taking dramatic turns to places I didn't think it would go. This book had me put my thinking cap on HARD! And for some reason I feel like it's going to be the same thing in book 3. The world building was so intricate without being super heavy, and it is also extremely unique. The only critique I have at all is the way things were written out. The sentences were very choppy, and where something could have been a comma, there was a period, which ruined the vibes of what was going on.
With that being said, the characters in this series so far are IMMACULATE! Keera is definitely on my Top 10 FMC’s. She is a badass but she is still so real and so raw with her emotions. She tries to carry the brunt of the weight for everyone as much as she can so they don't have to feel it. She is extremely loyal to those she cares about and all around she is such a good person who only tries to see the good in everyone. I loved how Melissa Blair wrote about her hardships and struggles with addiction that were just so true and I appreciated how she depicted Keera’s feelings through everything.
Riven has got to be the sweetest most thoughtful MMC I've ever read about. He technically would be a “Shadow Daddy.” But all I see with him is just a teddy bear, but only for Keera. He broods around everyone else but with her he is just raw and real just like she is. He isn't rich, he can't buy her anything she wants. He can't buy her anything honestly and yet he does everything for her. Every time he does something, he is always thinking about her first and no one else, not even himself. Their relationship with each other is so beautiful and i can't wait to see how everything plays out in the next book.
Some things to expect inside:
~ First person
~ Slow ❤️🔥
~ The weird one sided love triangle no one wanted
~ Badass FMC
~ LGBTQ+ Representation
~ 🌶️/5 spice rating
I’m so glad I dived into this world again, it was such a fun… but sad time. The plot got a lot deeper in this book and it's taking dramatic turns to places I didn't think it would go. This book had me put my thinking cap on HARD! And for some reason I feel like it's going to be the same thing in book 3. The world building was so intricate without being super heavy, and it is also extremely unique. The only critique I have at all is the way things were written out. The sentences were very choppy, and where something could have been a comma, there was a period, which ruined the vibes of what was going on.
With that being said, the characters in this series so far are IMMACULATE! Keera is definitely on my Top 10 FMC’s. She is a badass but she is still so real and so raw with her emotions. She tries to carry the brunt of the weight for everyone as much as she can so they don't have to feel it. She is extremely loyal to those she cares about and all around she is such a good person who only tries to see the good in everyone. I loved how Melissa Blair wrote about her hardships and struggles with addiction that were just so true and I appreciated how she depicted Keera’s feelings through everything.
Riven has got to be the sweetest most thoughtful MMC I've ever read about. He technically would be a “Shadow Daddy.” But all I see with him is just a teddy bear, but only for Keera. He broods around everyone else but with her he is just raw and real just like she is. He isn't rich, he can't buy her anything she wants. He can't buy her anything honestly and yet he does everything for her. Every time he does something, he is always thinking about her first and no one else, not even himself. Their relationship with each other is so beautiful and i can't wait to see how everything plays out in the next book.
July 11, 2023
This is book two of The Halfling Saga by Melissa Blair and I liked it even more than the first installment! I always feel it’s difficult to discuss a sequel without giving away spoilers for book one, so this is going to be a bit more minimal than my usual. This series is like the perfect fantasy—it has everything you could ask for! An unbelievable world with excellent world-building and defined history by the author, battle between humans and Elves and Fae, magic, morally grey characters, LGBTQ rep, compelling storyline, and an FMC that is so perfect because she is so not. I love Keera SO much! She has got to be one of my favorite characters ever…struggling with inner demons and addiction problems and loss and love. She is just too beautifully damaged. I adore her and would protect her with my life—not that she would need it because she is a badass assassin.
Book two brings us more political intrigue and expands the world, geographically and culturally, beyond what we’ve already been introduced to. We are taken to a secret city in the trees! The images in my head are dreamy. The spice level goes up a few notches and it’s done so well! I’m not a smut fan and I was not bothered by the sexy stuff. I could feel the want between the two characters. I thought it was very well written! I also love how romance is NOT the focal point. That’s my favorite kind of story in a fantasy setting. I want it there, but not the main focus. This is what we call fantasy with romance, not romance in a fantasy world. Big difference! I am really enjoying this series and I cannot wait to see what happens next! I would recommend this for people who think Throne of Glass is better than ACOTAR (like me). I know my booksta peeps will understand that.
Book two brings us more political intrigue and expands the world, geographically and culturally, beyond what we’ve already been introduced to. We are taken to a secret city in the trees! The images in my head are dreamy. The spice level goes up a few notches and it’s done so well! I’m not a smut fan and I was not bothered by the sexy stuff. I could feel the want between the two characters. I thought it was very well written! I also love how romance is NOT the focal point. That’s my favorite kind of story in a fantasy setting. I want it there, but not the main focus. This is what we call fantasy with romance, not romance in a fantasy world. Big difference! I am really enjoying this series and I cannot wait to see what happens next! I would recommend this for people who think Throne of Glass is better than ACOTAR (like me). I know my booksta peeps will understand that.
April 25, 2023
I really enjoyed the follow up to a Broken Blade. As I read an ARC, (thanks netgalley!) I'll ignore the many typos and errors I noted and hope the final rounds of edits catch them!
Book two involved a lot more mystery and sneaking around and death. There were many nods to the authors Indigenous culture in the lives of the Fae which was so wonderful to see.
The representation we have in this series is excellent, neurodivergence, disability, bisexual, queer, consent to name a few.
Certain parts of this book flew by, the story telling was really well done and I bawled at several revealed memories, they hit hard.
However, much of the love story plot line, and a few other smaller instances started to feel repetitive, it felt like the same conversation happened multiple times, the same details revealed.
There were several inconsistencies in the plot, but even with that it was a fantastic story and FUCK that ending.
Prince Damien is Ramsay Bolton level awful.
Book two involved a lot more mystery and sneaking around and death. There were many nods to the authors Indigenous culture in the lives of the Fae which was so wonderful to see.
The representation we have in this series is excellent, neurodivergence, disability, bisexual, queer, consent to name a few.
Certain parts of this book flew by, the story telling was really well done and I bawled at several revealed memories, they hit hard.
However, much of the love story plot line, and a few other smaller instances started to feel repetitive, it felt like the same conversation happened multiple times, the same details revealed.
There were several inconsistencies in the plot, but even with that it was a fantastic story and FUCK that ending.
Prince Damien is Ramsay Bolton level awful.
March 19, 2024
Unfortunately, this book just wasn't as good as the first. It was really slow. There were points when they acted like they needed to rush because they only had a few weeks to make their move, but then all they did was sit around for days. Also, the Blade is supposed to be excellent at spywork and strategy, but everything with Curringham felt lazy and boring. I also hated the love triangle shit. And the ending was just kinda lame. The whole book was just lackluster. But I still love Riven and I think I'm only invested in this series now because of him. If he gets hurt or even has his heart broken, I'm going to be pissed.
February 2, 2024
I loved the first one and I wanted to love this one but I just couldn't. It seemed to suffer "second book syndrome". This book felt mostly unnecessary and the information that was needed could have been told in 100 pages instead of the almost 500 here.
Riven feels like an unnecessary character in this book and doesn't even feel like the same character we saw in the last book. We don't even see him until 100 pages in. I would have liked to see more of a slow development of his and Keera's relationship instead of the flimsy love triangle that is presented in this book. I don't understand why it was even introduced. There is no lead up to it and appears out of no where late in the book, and then just vanishes after one conversation with Riven? Highly unneeded. After the end of this book, I don't even know if Keera truly wants Riven or not. When they "choose each other", it didn't feel like this big moment that it should have been.
I felt like we got a lot of history in this story. Some of it I liked while other parts seemed to go on forever. It seemed the things that were important were rushed over and missed the emotional depth they should have had. I liked learning about Keera's origins and all the information on the light fae. But reliving her hardest moments didn't really add anything for me and felt a lot like we were just retouching on topics we already read in the first book. I think we should have learned all the details of Brenna's death in this book. I think it could have added a lot to Keera's emotional development before we get back into the war in the third book.
I do love the bond the characters have with each other. At least when it comes to Keera, Riven, Syrra, and Nikolai. I also am excited to see how the addition of Gerada will change.
I like the style of writing. Even when I wasn't enjoying the story, I never considered dnfing.
I will continue the series to see how it ends but I was unfortunately disappointed in this one.
Riven feels like an unnecessary character in this book and doesn't even feel like the same character we saw in the last book. We don't even see him until 100 pages in. I would have liked to see more of a slow development of his and Keera's relationship instead of the flimsy love triangle that is presented in this book. I don't understand why it was even introduced. There is no lead up to it and appears out of no where late in the book, and then just vanishes after one conversation with Riven? Highly unneeded. After the end of this book, I don't even know if Keera truly wants Riven or not. When they "choose each other", it didn't feel like this big moment that it should have been.
I felt like we got a lot of history in this story. Some of it I liked while other parts seemed to go on forever. It seemed the things that were important were rushed over and missed the emotional depth they should have had. I liked learning about Keera's origins and all the information on the light fae. But reliving her hardest moments didn't really add anything for me and felt a lot like we were just retouching on topics we already read in the first book. I think we should have learned all the details of Brenna's death in this book. I think it could have added a lot to Keera's emotional development before we get back into the war in the third book.
I do love the bond the characters have with each other. At least when it comes to Keera, Riven, Syrra, and Nikolai. I also am excited to see how the addition of Gerada will change.
I like the style of writing. Even when I wasn't enjoying the story, I never considered dnfing.
I will continue the series to see how it ends but I was unfortunately disappointed in this one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 13, 2023
Meh. It was just alright.
January 28, 2024
This is really a great series and deserves more hype. There were a few things I disliked about book one, but those issues were mostly remedied in this installment. The ending was a bit unexpected and left me with a few unanswered questions but overall I enjoyed this even more than A Broken Blade. Looking forward to getting my hands on book three.
August 31, 2024
4.5⭐️ I am SO impressed by this book. While it was a bit slow to start, every single scene in this book was intentional and well executed. I feel like I learned so much about this world, the magic systems, & the history. I found my self constantly impressed by things that were revealed. This series has been so refreshing to read in a world where a lot of romantasy books out there are starting to blend together.
January 13, 2025
4 ⭐️
The last 25% felt a bit rushed, but it was still as good as I remember from my first time reading.
Major focus on community, found family, and building connections amongst characters in book 2. Heavy on the emotions and heartfelt moments. Solid amount of action but the character dynamics took center stage.
Let’s talk about Riven because I saw someone call him a wet blanket and I couldn’t disagree more. This is not a story where our MMC Riven is a hero…some alpha, all-knowing, well formed, well adjusted and experienced in all things kinda man. He’s a healer for Keera. A safe space for her. His character is vulnerable and compassionate and flawed. This is about people healing and finding their way…together. That doesn’t make him flat; it makes it so that he shares space with everyone else in the story who’s trying to find their way in the dark, too. And I loved that.
OH, AND HE’S A SHADOW DADDY…..A good man, Savannah. A GOOD MAN.
You get a lot more about the side cast of characters which is really enjoyable. These characters are LAYERED and EVERYONE is has their scars. It felt like an honor to have their stories shared with me as a reader.
Underlying themes confronting post colonialism and the concept of identity are still very prominent.
World building was top notch. The Halfling safe haven Myrelinth is BEAUTIFUL and you get immersed in the details about the community.
This is definitely a slow burn, with some low heat 🌶️. Keera & Riven’s moments are tender. So don’t expect some hot, kinky fae energy because that’s not the vibe here.
As in the first book, Keera remains a well written FMC, and we see her gain footing in finding where she belongs, forgiving herself, and healing from her past.
✔️ Fae, Elves, Halflings & Humans
✔️ Assassin FMC with a mysterious lineage
✔️ Rebellion against post colonialism tyranny
✔️ Found Family
✔️ Forgiveness & Healing
✔️ Shadow Daddy MMC
✔️ Allies-to-Lovers
✔️ Sapphic / Queer Relationship Rep, Heteronormative Relationship Rep
✔️ Slow Burn
✔️ Mild Spice 🌶️ (explicit content but minimal)
*************************************
✨ Reread
Books 2 & 3 were a blur the last time I read them. Hoping I can untangle some bits and pieces of this Elven enigma 👀
The last 25% felt a bit rushed, but it was still as good as I remember from my first time reading.
Major focus on community, found family, and building connections amongst characters in book 2. Heavy on the emotions and heartfelt moments. Solid amount of action but the character dynamics took center stage.
Let’s talk about Riven because I saw someone call him a wet blanket and I couldn’t disagree more. This is not a story where our MMC Riven is a hero…some alpha, all-knowing, well formed, well adjusted and experienced in all things kinda man. He’s a healer for Keera. A safe space for her. His character is vulnerable and compassionate and flawed. This is about people healing and finding their way…together. That doesn’t make him flat; it makes it so that he shares space with everyone else in the story who’s trying to find their way in the dark, too. And I loved that.
OH, AND HE’S A SHADOW DADDY…..A good man, Savannah. A GOOD MAN.
You get a lot more about the side cast of characters which is really enjoyable. These characters are LAYERED and EVERYONE is has their scars. It felt like an honor to have their stories shared with me as a reader.
Underlying themes confronting post colonialism and the concept of identity are still very prominent.
World building was top notch. The Halfling safe haven Myrelinth is BEAUTIFUL and you get immersed in the details about the community.
This is definitely a slow burn, with some low heat 🌶️. Keera & Riven’s moments are tender. So don’t expect some hot, kinky fae energy because that’s not the vibe here.
As in the first book, Keera remains a well written FMC, and we see her gain footing in finding where she belongs, forgiving herself, and healing from her past.
✔️ Fae, Elves, Halflings & Humans
✔️ Assassin FMC with a mysterious lineage
✔️ Rebellion against post colonialism tyranny
✔️ Found Family
✔️ Forgiveness & Healing
✔️ Shadow Daddy MMC
✔️ Allies-to-Lovers
✔️ Sapphic / Queer Relationship Rep, Heteronormative Relationship Rep
✔️ Slow Burn
✔️ Mild Spice 🌶️ (explicit content but minimal)
*************************************
✨ Reread
Books 2 & 3 were a blur the last time I read them. Hoping I can untangle some bits and pieces of this Elven enigma 👀
May 22, 2023
I loved A Broken Blade when it came out and I couldn't wait until I had this gorgeous book in my hands. But when I finally started reading it, I quickly became bored and disinterested.
In the almost 500 pages of this novel, a whole lot of nothing happened. I felt that the author was trying to take a different approach in creating lore and healing Keera's tortured soul, but all that was accomplished was the constant complaints that Keera did not belong with the elves/faes.
Whenever something interesting finally happened, it ended abruptly to Keera moping around the Faelands all over again. The strong heroine became moppy and rash. Never stopping to ask the proper questions and to come up with a proper plan. It was infuriating.
The book needed some proper editing. From the grammatical errors, to the poor pacing, to a confusing timeline, and lack of descriptions. This is suppose to be a book rich in lore within a beautiful faeland and whenever the author tried to describe a single thing, it was short and vague. I also wished that the author gave a quick sentence reminder here and there because I had forgotten some of the things that happened in the last book.
I could feel the author wanting to accomplish something more, to add more lore and depth to Keera, but it fell short. She may have been pressured to release this book so quickly, but I wish she took a bit more time in writing it. There was so many things she could have written instead like more of the strategy readings and more of Keera's past when she tried to go into her past memories. Any little action peace was completely rushed just to go back to Keera moping around doing nothing.
**spoilers ahead**
Riven was leeched out of personality in this book and was just a sad shadowed puppy following Keera around. Besides the very few steamy scenes, his character was pretty much non-existance. Then there was the whole Keera questioning her bond with Riven out of the blue! All of a sudden she had this fear that what she and Riven shared was fake because of the bond? Nothing leading to it, just another random item.
The weird romance trying to happen between Killian and Keera was awkward and fully forced. Yes, I gathered from the last book that Killian was interested in Keera, but all of a sudden Keera wanted him too? There was no gentle lead into this, it was more like....boom! All of a sudden Keera wanted his touch too. It was forced and the triangle trope was not needed.
I think it may be for B&N exclusibe sold books, but the end with Gerarda's POV, those last few pages were the only saving grace in this book.
I did love the first book so much that I will give the third when it comes out a second chance. However, if the third book is the same as this plotless book and the saga continues to a fourth, I don't think I can continue.
In the almost 500 pages of this novel, a whole lot of nothing happened. I felt that the author was trying to take a different approach in creating lore and healing Keera's tortured soul, but all that was accomplished was the constant complaints that Keera did not belong with the elves/faes.
Whenever something interesting finally happened, it ended abruptly to Keera moping around the Faelands all over again. The strong heroine became moppy and rash. Never stopping to ask the proper questions and to come up with a proper plan. It was infuriating.
The book needed some proper editing. From the grammatical errors, to the poor pacing, to a confusing timeline, and lack of descriptions. This is suppose to be a book rich in lore within a beautiful faeland and whenever the author tried to describe a single thing, it was short and vague. I also wished that the author gave a quick sentence reminder here and there because I had forgotten some of the things that happened in the last book.
I could feel the author wanting to accomplish something more, to add more lore and depth to Keera, but it fell short. She may have been pressured to release this book so quickly, but I wish she took a bit more time in writing it. There was so many things she could have written instead like more of the strategy readings and more of Keera's past when she tried to go into her past memories. Any little action peace was completely rushed just to go back to Keera moping around doing nothing.
**spoilers ahead**
Riven was leeched out of personality in this book and was just a sad shadowed puppy following Keera around. Besides the very few steamy scenes, his character was pretty much non-existance. Then there was the whole Keera questioning her bond with Riven out of the blue! All of a sudden she had this fear that what she and Riven shared was fake because of the bond? Nothing leading to it, just another random item.
The weird romance trying to happen between Killian and Keera was awkward and fully forced. Yes, I gathered from the last book that Killian was interested in Keera, but all of a sudden Keera wanted him too? There was no gentle lead into this, it was more like....boom! All of a sudden Keera wanted his touch too. It was forced and the triangle trope was not needed.
I think it may be for B&N exclusibe sold books, but the end with Gerarda's POV, those last few pages were the only saving grace in this book.
I did love the first book so much that I will give the third when it comes out a second chance. However, if the third book is the same as this plotless book and the saga continues to a fourth, I don't think I can continue.
June 29, 2023
This gripping and highly emotional sequel did not disappoint.
I screamed. I cried. I gasped dramatically NUMEROUS times in front of multiple witnesses. I cried again. I swooned. I yelled at the author over the ending and I frothing at the mouth and chomping at the air over not being able to read book 3 immediately.
Although the book does tend to lean a little too heavily at times over a few chosen one clichés, Keera and her crew are still as morally complicated and rowdy as ever.
My biggest fear moving forward lies in my undying love and intense emotional attachment to certain characters that few set up to die. I am not doing well.
CW: violence, death, murder, dead loved ones, grief, addiction/alcoholism, sexual content, recurring discussions of/references to war + colonialism + slavery
I screamed. I cried. I gasped dramatically NUMEROUS times in front of multiple witnesses. I cried again. I swooned. I yelled at the author over the ending and I frothing at the mouth and chomping at the air over not being able to read book 3 immediately.
Although the book does tend to lean a little too heavily at times over a few chosen one clichés, Keera and her crew are still as morally complicated and rowdy as ever.
My biggest fear moving forward lies in my undying love and intense emotional attachment to certain characters that few set up to die. I am not doing well.
CW: violence, death, murder, dead loved ones, grief, addiction/alcoholism, sexual content, recurring discussions of/references to war + colonialism + slavery
June 13, 2024
So I listened to this in a day 👀. The plot massively expanded and deepened in this book, and now I'm left wondering how many books are going to be in this series!
I loved so many things about this story arc, which focused on trust, distrust, and our favourite characters learning to open up about their pasts. There were so many emotional moments. I also absolutely loved the tree city of Myrelinth.
So much I'd like to say, but spoilers lol. That ending! 😱😭
I loved so many things about this story arc, which focused on trust, distrust, and our favourite characters learning to open up about their pasts. There were so many emotional moments. I also absolutely loved the tree city of Myrelinth.
So much I'd like to say, but spoilers lol. That ending! 😱😭
March 9, 2023
⭐️ 5/5
🌶 1,5/5
I said it once and I say it again, if you liked ToG, you'll love this book!
A Shadow Crown start right after the first book ends and it is amazing! Not one book entertained me as much with the first sentence as this one did.
We follow Keera in her search for the ways to end suffering of Halflings but in this book, she gets unexpected allies, but also gets involved in the politics and scheming of the Elverath. The world building in this book is amazing by the way! I can't wait to read all the books to know everything about it.
Found family trope in this series is just superior, and I love the side characters so much!
It gave me all the good yummy feelings with the MMC (AKA consent king), but also.... there might be some twists and turns in that area in the next book? I am so confused and intrigued 🫠.
Anyways! Thanks to Netgalley and Union Square & Co for providing me with a digital ARC (I forever will love you)
🌶 1,5/5
I said it once and I say it again, if you liked ToG, you'll love this book!
A Shadow Crown start right after the first book ends and it is amazing! Not one book entertained me as much with the first sentence as this one did.
We follow Keera in her search for the ways to end suffering of Halflings but in this book, she gets unexpected allies, but also gets involved in the politics and scheming of the Elverath. The world building in this book is amazing by the way! I can't wait to read all the books to know everything about it.
Found family trope in this series is just superior, and I love the side characters so much!
It gave me all the good yummy feelings with the MMC (AKA consent king), but also.... there might be some twists and turns in that area in the next book? I am so confused and intrigued 🫠.
Anyways! Thanks to Netgalley and Union Square & Co for providing me with a digital ARC (I forever will love you)
February 27, 2024
OMG WHAT A GOOD AND AMAZING ENDING!!! I can't believe it took me this long to read this sequel but also happy it did because now I don't have to wait for the third installment! I won't be reading book 3 because it's on my March TBR so hopefully next month I will read it and then wait a whole year for the finale!!
Rating: 5/5 stars!!!
Rating: 5/5 stars!!!
March 7, 2023
This is a fabulous series with an awesome yet flawed heroine in Keera. She has overcome so much to protect those she can but her despair at those she couldn’t save just resonates so much as even more background is revealed here. For those who love the Fae this will be a joy to read as yep we discover a whole lot more about them as Keera looks for allies and safety for those terrorised by the monstrous King. Yet there’s a traitor in their midst and so much happening that Keera doesn’t know about and as they prepare for war has she really put her trust in the right people ? There is a romance woven into this series but for this reader it’s pretty secondary to the plot twists that keep me on the edge of my seat.
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
May 6, 2023
Despite the clunky writing, the first book really compensated with its fast plot and flawed characters, so I was excited to jump into the second book right away. Sadly, this really felt like the unfortunate second book of a trilogy - I assume the idea was to get to know and love the characters but there was no clear plot or stakes for the vast majority of the book. I also felt like there was very little character development - in fact, a lot of effort goes into making Keera look good all along, which I didn’t find too interesting. Overall, I found it slow - dare I say boring - and I’m not sure I would have pushed through it if this wasn’t my very first ARC. I will probably not read the next book…
August 12, 2023
Rating: 4⭐️s
It’s a great book, but imo the first book is way better. Also the B&N exclusive edition comes with a chapter on another character’s POV and that was fun to read.
I’m still trying to not think of Bardugo’s Nikolai when I read his name on here. I love that character and i’m not a super fan of that Nikolai on this book, so it’s… interesting.
Anyway. I would say read this book if you really, and I mean really enjoyed the first!
It’s a great book, but imo the first book is way better. Also the B&N exclusive edition comes with a chapter on another character’s POV and that was fun to read.
I’m still trying to not think of Bardugo’s Nikolai when I read his name on here. I love that character and i’m not a super fan of that Nikolai on this book, so it’s… interesting.
Anyway. I would say read this book if you really, and I mean really enjoyed the first!
December 10, 2024
Overall Rating : A-
"A good leader is not born from a lack of conflict, but his response when it arises."
So glad I started this series. Much better than the first one, with an interesting plot, fleshed out characters and major character development from Keera. Also, the romance? Top - freaking - tier. Riven is the type I am looking for in all my MMCs. Strong, tough, but also soft and compassionate. I have no idea what is going to happen next and I can't wait to start the next book!
"A good leader is not born from a lack of conflict, but his response when it arises."
So glad I started this series. Much better than the first one, with an interesting plot, fleshed out characters and major character development from Keera. Also, the romance? Top - freaking - tier. Riven is the type I am looking for in all my MMCs. Strong, tough, but also soft and compassionate. I have no idea what is going to happen next and I can't wait to start the next book!
January 13, 2025
Einfach wow! Es hat zwar ein bisschen gedauert, wieder in die Geschichte reinzufinden, aber sobald ich drin war, hatte ich eine großartige Zeit. Die Reihe hat alle Tropes und Elemente die ich an Fantasy liebe: enemies to lovers, eine starke Assassine als Protagonistin, viel Action, Spannung und natürlich Knistern ✨
Vor allem die vielschichtige Protagonistin Keera hat mich gefesselt. Es macht einfach Spaß sie auf ihrer Reise zu begleiten, auch wenn sie einige durchaus düstere und tragische Momente durchleben muss.
Teil 2 ließ sich fast noch besser weglesen als Teil 1, was an den vielen Ortswechseln, der spannenden Handlung und den gelungenen Charakteren liegt. Meiner Meinung nach hat sich auch der Schreibstil im Vergleich zum Vorband nochmal verbessert.
Ich mochte die Richtung, die die Geschichte eingeschlagen hat, sehr, besonders die Thematik rund um Misstrauen und Verrat. Das Ende hat mich dann komplett sprachlos zurückgelassen. 🫣
Falls ihr die Reihe noch nicht gelesen habt: worauf wartet ihr noch?? 😂
Vor allem die vielschichtige Protagonistin Keera hat mich gefesselt. Es macht einfach Spaß sie auf ihrer Reise zu begleiten, auch wenn sie einige durchaus düstere und tragische Momente durchleben muss.
Teil 2 ließ sich fast noch besser weglesen als Teil 1, was an den vielen Ortswechseln, der spannenden Handlung und den gelungenen Charakteren liegt. Meiner Meinung nach hat sich auch der Schreibstil im Vergleich zum Vorband nochmal verbessert.
Ich mochte die Richtung, die die Geschichte eingeschlagen hat, sehr, besonders die Thematik rund um Misstrauen und Verrat. Das Ende hat mich dann komplett sprachlos zurückgelassen. 🫣
Falls ihr die Reihe noch nicht gelesen habt: worauf wartet ihr noch?? 😂
June 15, 2024
3.5 ⭐️
Review to come!
Review to come!
April 26, 2023
Thank you to Netgalley and Union Square & Co for providing an eARC of "A Shadow Crown" by Melissa Blair, and to Melissa Blair for showing her support for my excitement about this book on social media.
"A Shadow Crown" is the second novel of the Halfling Saga, and follows Keera as she continues her work as the King's master assassin while also trying to win over the untrusting people of the rebellion as a double agent. However, when the rebellion suspects that Keera is behind the leak of information to the enemy, she must walk a delicate line to prove her innocence.
The first book of the series explored themes of colonialism, genocide, and racism, while still sticking to familiar tropes that made it feel comfortable to readers. The sequel continues to build on these themes as Blair continues to build upon her previous world-building. The setting is incredibly rich and complex and I loved reading more about the elves and their magical tree city. The characters are incredibly complex as well, with Keera continuing to deal with her addiction in a manner that feels completely real. She also has a whole heap of past trauma and grief to work through and that feels authentic. The supporting cast of characters grow and their relationships with Keera become even more endearing. I adore her new librarian friend; instant favorite. The romantic relationship between Keera and Riven is especially heartwarming. After his betrayal, he takes the time to earn Keera's trust and their bond is beautiful and supportive.
While some readers may find this installment to be slower than the first, the pacing is necessary to allow for the characters to be fully fleshed out and for readers to become even more invested in them. Overall, "A Shadow Crown" is a beautifully written novel with intricate world-building and endearing characters, and I highly recommend it. Melissa Blair's talent as an author continues to build and I will read anything that she writes forever.
"A Shadow Crown" is the second novel of the Halfling Saga, and follows Keera as she continues her work as the King's master assassin while also trying to win over the untrusting people of the rebellion as a double agent. However, when the rebellion suspects that Keera is behind the leak of information to the enemy, she must walk a delicate line to prove her innocence.
The first book of the series explored themes of colonialism, genocide, and racism, while still sticking to familiar tropes that made it feel comfortable to readers. The sequel continues to build on these themes as Blair continues to build upon her previous world-building. The setting is incredibly rich and complex and I loved reading more about the elves and their magical tree city. The characters are incredibly complex as well, with Keera continuing to deal with her addiction in a manner that feels completely real. She also has a whole heap of past trauma and grief to work through and that feels authentic. The supporting cast of characters grow and their relationships with Keera become even more endearing. I adore her new librarian friend; instant favorite. The romantic relationship between Keera and Riven is especially heartwarming. After his betrayal, he takes the time to earn Keera's trust and their bond is beautiful and supportive.
While some readers may find this installment to be slower than the first, the pacing is necessary to allow for the characters to be fully fleshed out and for readers to become even more invested in them. Overall, "A Shadow Crown" is a beautifully written novel with intricate world-building and endearing characters, and I highly recommend it. Melissa Blair's talent as an author continues to build and I will read anything that she writes forever.
May 22, 2023
With the exception of the last 5%, this book felt dreadfully uneventful. The relationship building between Riven and Keera felt unnecessarily stunted without even taking into consideration the awkward Killian business. Nik is still incredible though, so there is that. You get a slow look into Keera’s origins. And everything builds up to hell breaking loose at the very end to leeway into what we can only assume is war. Hopefully the next installment offers a bit more excitement.
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