Queen B’s Decree: What I’ve learned this year that is if LJ Andrews writes it, I’m gonna read it.
Lyra harbors a kind of forbidden magic, that she’s been hiding her whole life, until she’s caught by Roark and brought to the king—where he proceeds to use her, naturally. Roark and Lyra start out a bit enemies-ish, where he’s reluctant to be her bodyguard (the man just doesn’t know why he likes her so much 🤣) but the slow burn burns here in the best way.
I listened to this one on audio, and it really highlights the viking feel of the story and characters. The accents were top tier. The world building was just right—just enough for me to understand the magic and the political intrigue, but also I was left guessing at would else to expect.
The beginning was a bit of a slower pace, but once it did, I was fully invested in the story. I especially loved that despite being mute, Roark said so much just with sign or his facial expressions. And how Lyra immediately picked up and learned his signs, it was kind of heartwarming to see. Honestly, there’s just something about a slightly damaged character that is irresistible to me.
The cliffhanger came out of nowhere and I’m shook. Definitely will be reading the next in the series!
Book: Broken Souls and Bones by LJ Andrews
Series: Stonegate #1
Genre: Fantasy
Plot Devices/Tropes: cliffhanger