A River of Royal Blood

Rating: 3.5/5 stars
Rounded up to 4

A beautiful world filled with legends and myths that affect the cultures of the place. Wonderful worldbuilding–favorite thing was the different stories of the original races and the queen. I thought the magic system was interesting. All in all, I just wanted more. More action, more romance, more descriptions, and definitely more character development.

Great final reveal. Loved it. Really interested to see where it goes next.

Whoa, I loved this! Couldn't put it down, so I read it in one day. I just NEEDED to know what was happening.
Can't believe I waited this long to read it!
Addictive story set in a beautifully crafted world with great characters.
SO GOOD!

After reading a slew of underwhelming new releases, I am SO glad this book came into my life. This world is vivid, the characters complex, and it does not easily succumb to many typical YA fantasy tropes. I could NOT stop reading, the action and plot keeping me turning the pages while the writing and relationships propelled much of the drama. I was also so impressed by Joy's careful handling of race, colonialism, and systemic oppression. If you like Laini Taylor's Daughter of Smoke and Bone series, you will love this. I am SO excited for the next one!