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In this sweeping romantic fantasy, a dangerous deal binds a young jeweler's apprentice to the mysterious Serpent King in a marriage of convenience, thrusting her into a deadly game between the cunning, fearsome ruler and his rebellious huntsman. Perfect for fans of The Wrath & the Dawn and Once Upon a Broken Heart! The Serpent King has come to find his bride, and with his arrival festivities sweep through the city. Inside and outside the Rose Palace await women from across the six kingdoms determined to become his new bride-to-be—all except for eighteen-year-old Saphira. After escaping life as a palace ward under the cruel djinn Lady Incarnadine, Saphira now works as the apprentice to the unscrupulous jewelsmith Galen. Out of fear of being discovered, she hides her rare gift for harnessing the magic in gemstones and lets Galen take credit for her craft. But when Galen makes a boast that ruffles the court, Lady Incarnadine punishes him with an impossible task—one that threatens to drag Saphira back into Incarnadine’s grasp. Desperate to avoid this fate, Saphira strikes a dangerous deal with Rane, the enigmatic huntsman sent by the Serpent King to find the best jewelsmith in the empire. Rane promises that if Saphira crafts a mysterious piece for his master, the Serpent King will grant her a new identity and freedom. But when their plans go awry and the only way out is to marry the Serpent King, Saphira becomes entangled in the dangerous affairs of kingdoms and empires—caught between the cunning, handsome Rane and her cold, serpentine husband.
Publication Year: 2025
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This was my first time reading a book by Sunya Mara, and I was genuinely thrilled by how much I enjoyed it. From the very first page, I was completely drawn in, and the intriguing plot kept me hooked, making it hard to put down.
Saphira, the main character, is a jewelsmith, a distinctive profession that offers a refreshing perspective for a protagonist. I particularly admired her personality. She's strong, determined, and knows exactly what she wants, which makes her unforgettable. The romance was truly engaging, with the dynamic between the main characters being a highlight. While I did find the plot twist somewhat predictable, the story as a whole still delivered an enjoyable experience. I especially enjoyed following their journey and seeing how their relationship evolved. I only wish there had been a bit more depth to the magic system and a few extra moments between Saphira and the love interest after she learns the truth. Their interaction in those key moments could have added more depth and intensity to the story. Overall, this was a captivating read, and I’m looking forward to exploring more of this author’s work!
Thank you to Netgalley and HarperCollins Children's Books for the e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
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