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3.77 AVERAGE
3.77 AVERAGE
adventurous
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
This book was moderately enjoyable; however, it had more of a young adult vibe than I anticipated, and the storyline felt somewhat disjointed. I thought the concept of the magic system was intriguing, but it wasn't executed in a way that I found particularly impressive. Regarding the LGBTQ+ relationship, I found it lacking, and I also struggled to understand the prince's role in the story, as he seemed somewhat extraneous. The twist at the end felt unnecessary and didn't quite align with the narrative. Overall, I wasn't a major fan of this novel, despite having high expectations.
Thank you to the Author Nikhil Prabala for writing this novel and sharing it with us.
Thank you to the Author Nikhil Prabala for writing this novel and sharing it with us.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! The Duchess of Kokora, Phera, has entered the marriage competition known as the Rounds. The victor gets to marry Prince Dominic, but Phera's true aim is to reclaim her ex-fiancé, the fellow contestant Lady Rocelle. The story is filled with political tension and intrigue, with all signs pointing toward impending war. We will have to wait for the next book to see how it unfolds though!! I found many characters to be quite likable, and none of them are flawless. They are all on a journey of learning and growth, which was refreshing to read, and there's still so much potential for development ahead. Our lead, Phera, is witty and delightful, and I thoroughly enjoyed her playful antics. I am eager for the next book!!!
This was a fantastic read! It has something for everyone: action, romance, humor and wonderful world building! I loved the humor in this book. There were so many times I was laughing out loud and the world building is exactly what every reader looks for in a fantasy book! Phera was a great character. I truly enjoyed following her on her journey! She's witty and passionate! I hope there will be more of this world. I'm definitely not ready to let it go yet! Thank you Colored Pages Book Tours and Nikhil Prabala for sharing this book with me!
I was initially drawn to The Duchess of Kokora because of the beautiful cover. The jewel tones worn by the Mona Lisa-esque woman with a thick braid and talons that sparkle a deep blue fascinated me. Why does she have talons? What mystery is she hiding behind her demure smile?
Once I began reading, the richness of the world-building and the vivid characters pulled me through the story. The author weaves together a complicated tale of political intrigue and forbidden romance, set against a backdrop of a society on the brink of change.
The characters wrestle with questions whose answers will take them into a very different future. Technology or tradition? Kindness or cruelty? Justice or vengeance?
These questions are also played out in the Rounds, a competition for the crown prince’s hand in marriage. Phera, a duchess from the neighboring Kokora, must navigate the games with care, as she doesn’t want to win, only to prove herself to her beloved’s family in order to be allowed to marry her.
The love triangle that emerges further complicates Phera’s plans.
I enjoyed the fast pace of the book and the adventures that Phera attracted with her fierce personality and brash approach to life. She embraces all that makes her different: “No matter what I do, I will always be an outsider.”
Overall, I was impressed with the depth of the world Prabala created. The rules of the magic, the rising tension between societal classes, the political subterfuge, and the main character’s growth all combine to make a story that I’m anxious to know more about.
Fair warning, it does end on a cliffhanger. If it goes the way I think it will, we’ll be immersed in Kokora in the next book, and I’m here for it.
Once I began reading, the richness of the world-building and the vivid characters pulled me through the story. The author weaves together a complicated tale of political intrigue and forbidden romance, set against a backdrop of a society on the brink of change.
The characters wrestle with questions whose answers will take them into a very different future. Technology or tradition? Kindness or cruelty? Justice or vengeance?
These questions are also played out in the Rounds, a competition for the crown prince’s hand in marriage. Phera, a duchess from the neighboring Kokora, must navigate the games with care, as she doesn’t want to win, only to prove herself to her beloved’s family in order to be allowed to marry her.
The love triangle that emerges further complicates Phera’s plans.
I enjoyed the fast pace of the book and the adventures that Phera attracted with her fierce personality and brash approach to life. She embraces all that makes her different: “No matter what I do, I will always be an outsider.”
Overall, I was impressed with the depth of the world Prabala created. The rules of the magic, the rising tension between societal classes, the political subterfuge, and the main character’s growth all combine to make a story that I’m anxious to know more about.
Fair warning, it does end on a cliffhanger. If it goes the way I think it will, we’ll be immersed in Kokora in the next book, and I’m here for it.
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Thank you to PR by the Book for inviting me to review this, they provided me free copy access to the audiobook via NetGalley.
The Duchess of Kokora was outside my usual kind of read but I enjoyed the chance to change up my listening experience, esp with themes on inclusive relationships, strong sassy FMC vibes, and engaging narration from Bridgerton's Adjoa Andoh!
This audiobook is a delight, filled with humor, rich world-building, and a brilliant twist on the marriage games trope. Adjoa Andoh’s narration brings out every ounce of wit in the dialogue, delivering the Duchess’s scathing comebacks with perfect timing and making the banter even more enjoyable. The complex world of magic, politics, and court intrigue is richly detailed, from the divisions between the magical Signed and non-magical Unsigned to the wonderfully chaotic marriage games. Andoh’s skillful voice work draws out the nuances in the characters' personalities, making each one distinct and the story’s stakes thrillingly real. The inclusion of deeper themes on social justice and marginalized identities only enriches this action-packed adventure, giving it a memorable impact and depth.
What sets this book apart is its clever blend of romance and action, tied together with tender LGBTQIA+ representation and vibrant humor. Andoh beautifully brings the romantic elements to life without veering into clichéd or overdone territory, even during the jaw-dropping cliffhanger. This series debut also showcases unique magical elements and political strategy, making it a satisfying read for fantasy lovers who crave engaging plots and sharp dialogue. The Duchess’s bold personality and Andoh’s superb narration make it impossible to put down; you’ll be staying up late, absorbed by every twist, duel, and scheme. For fans of clever fantasy worlds and whip-smart humor, this audiobook is a gem, and I’m eagerly awaiting the sequel—with Andoh, of course, to narrate!
The Duchess of Kokora was outside my usual kind of read but I enjoyed the chance to change up my listening experience, esp with themes on inclusive relationships, strong sassy FMC vibes, and engaging narration from Bridgerton's Adjoa Andoh!
This audiobook is a delight, filled with humor, rich world-building, and a brilliant twist on the marriage games trope. Adjoa Andoh’s narration brings out every ounce of wit in the dialogue, delivering the Duchess’s scathing comebacks with perfect timing and making the banter even more enjoyable. The complex world of magic, politics, and court intrigue is richly detailed, from the divisions between the magical Signed and non-magical Unsigned to the wonderfully chaotic marriage games. Andoh’s skillful voice work draws out the nuances in the characters' personalities, making each one distinct and the story’s stakes thrillingly real. The inclusion of deeper themes on social justice and marginalized identities only enriches this action-packed adventure, giving it a memorable impact and depth.
What sets this book apart is its clever blend of romance and action, tied together with tender LGBTQIA+ representation and vibrant humor. Andoh beautifully brings the romantic elements to life without veering into clichéd or overdone territory, even during the jaw-dropping cliffhanger. This series debut also showcases unique magical elements and political strategy, making it a satisfying read for fantasy lovers who crave engaging plots and sharp dialogue. The Duchess’s bold personality and Andoh’s superb narration make it impossible to put down; you’ll be staying up late, absorbed by every twist, duel, and scheme. For fans of clever fantasy worlds and whip-smart humor, this audiobook is a gem, and I’m eagerly awaiting the sequel—with Andoh, of course, to narrate!
adventurous
challenging
dark
mysterious
tense
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
I was so impressed with this book! The world building is executed so well and the magic system is so cool! I love the message of love being more than romance and finding those who support you.
If you like audiobooks, the audio for this was amazing and was narrated by Adjoa Andoh - or as you may know her, Lady Danbury in Bridgerton! 🤯
If you like audiobooks, the audio for this was amazing and was narrated by Adjoa Andoh - or as you may know her, Lady Danbury in Bridgerton! 🤯
In The Duchess of Kokora, the stakes of courtly intrigue are not just about winning a contest but about the complexity of the human heart and the nature of moral choices. I enjoyed the exploration of what makes a person a good person or a bad person. This was a solid debut. There times I was laughing out loud, and I really enjoyed the humor infused into the writing. There were also some unlikable characters, including the main love interest, Rocelle. I feel like Phera is blinded by her feelings but I felt like Rocelle was toying with Phera.
As soon as I saw this stunning cover, I knew I had to have it. And when I found out it’s a sapphic romantasy? Say less. I wanted it.
I’ve heard this book described as a cross between The Hunger Games and Bridgerton. While I haven’t watched much of either, I’d say that description fits. Our fierce FMC, Phera, enters the marriage games in a neighboring kingdom—not to win Prince Dominic’s favor but to rekindle her relationship with her ex-girlfriend, Rochelle, another contestant. Pursuing another contestant is strictly forbidden, so Phera has to keep her true intentions under wraps. Though the games are meant to be playful, there's a simmering undercurrent of political tension.
One of my favorite aspects of this story was the unique and immersive magic system. The use of talons to facilitate the magic was an especially clever touch. The writing is vivid and fantastical, though at times, I found myself needing to slow down and really take it in—it’s not exactly a breezy read. That said, the world-building and character development were worth the effort.
Phera had me tearing my hair out at points. Her stubbornness and headstrong nature often lead her to make questionable decisions, even when she gains a broader perspective. I found myself relating more to Rochelle, who favors peace, understanding, and resolution over conflict. The dynamic between Phera and Rochelle, especially during their arguments, was one of the highlights for me. I could see both perspectives, but I usually sided with Rochelle’s more measured approach.
As for the ending, I had no idea where the story was headed—even up until the final page. I love being kept on my toes, and this book definitely delivered on that front. It’s clearly setting up for a sequel, and I can’t wait to see how the love triangle plays out. I’m personally hoping for a polyamorous twist because I think the three main characters could work beautifully together.
If you’re in the mood for a sapphic romantasy with political intrigue, magic, and a unique competition element, I highly recommend checking out The Duchess of Kokora!
A huge thank you to Tales and Teacups for gifting me this gorgeous copy of the book.
Check out my full video review here: https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZP8LUxv7c/
I’ve heard this book described as a cross between The Hunger Games and Bridgerton. While I haven’t watched much of either, I’d say that description fits. Our fierce FMC, Phera, enters the marriage games in a neighboring kingdom—not to win Prince Dominic’s favor but to rekindle her relationship with her ex-girlfriend, Rochelle, another contestant. Pursuing another contestant is strictly forbidden, so Phera has to keep her true intentions under wraps. Though the games are meant to be playful, there's a simmering undercurrent of political tension.
One of my favorite aspects of this story was the unique and immersive magic system. The use of talons to facilitate the magic was an especially clever touch. The writing is vivid and fantastical, though at times, I found myself needing to slow down and really take it in—it’s not exactly a breezy read. That said, the world-building and character development were worth the effort.
Phera had me tearing my hair out at points. Her stubbornness and headstrong nature often lead her to make questionable decisions, even when she gains a broader perspective. I found myself relating more to Rochelle, who favors peace, understanding, and resolution over conflict. The dynamic between Phera and Rochelle, especially during their arguments, was one of the highlights for me. I could see both perspectives, but I usually sided with Rochelle’s more measured approach.
As for the ending, I had no idea where the story was headed—even up until the final page. I love being kept on my toes, and this book definitely delivered on that front. It’s clearly setting up for a sequel, and I can’t wait to see how the love triangle plays out. I’m personally hoping for a polyamorous twist because I think the three main characters could work beautifully together.
If you’re in the mood for a sapphic romantasy with political intrigue, magic, and a unique competition element, I highly recommend checking out The Duchess of Kokora!
A huge thank you to Tales and Teacups for gifting me this gorgeous copy of the book.
Check out my full video review here: https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZP8LUxv7c/
DNF-ing at 9%
The writing is blatantly trying far too hard to be witty and humorous, in a way that inserts itself into every other sentence of the main character’s dialogue.
Her first interaction with her love interest felt tremendously forced and stilted, with inorganic transitions between heavy and major plot points; one short chapter of them meeting and you already have: completely laying out the MC’s entire plan, a confession of her love, and the healing of the initiator of a fire.
Overall, the story feels juvenile and unrefined, perhaps a few more rounds of editing would have made this more bearable but I couldn’t make it past the first 5 chapters.
The writing is blatantly trying far too hard to be witty and humorous, in a way that inserts itself into every other sentence of the main character’s dialogue.
Her first interaction with her love interest felt tremendously forced and stilted, with inorganic transitions between heavy and major plot points; one short chapter of them meeting and you already have: completely laying out the MC’s entire plan, a confession of her love, and the healing of the initiator of a fire.
Overall, the story feels juvenile and unrefined, perhaps a few more rounds of editing would have made this more bearable but I couldn’t make it past the first 5 chapters.