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4.3 AVERAGE
4.3 AVERAGE
adventurous
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Oh I loved this! Thank you Edelweiss for the ARC!
This is such a fun one that I can’t wait for more people to get their hands on. I loved the characters, the plot and oh man the SPICE 🌶️🥵
This book was adventurous and fun and kept my attention from the very start. Lots of action and dealt with heavy topics but still a light easy read. I loved the dynamics of the characters. It was impossible to put this down!
I’m giving this a 4.5⭐️ because this book takes place over a very short amount of time and I felt like it was really just setting up the story for the next book. In this book we’re getting hints and the grander plot and we’re getting a ton of the character backstory and development and also the relationship building of our main characters. I predict that when book 2 comes around it will be a 5 star read for me.
This is such a fun one that I can’t wait for more people to get their hands on. I loved the characters, the plot and oh man the SPICE 🌶️🥵
This book was adventurous and fun and kept my attention from the very start. Lots of action and dealt with heavy topics but still a light easy read. I loved the dynamics of the characters. It was impossible to put this down!
I’m giving this a 4.5⭐️ because this book takes place over a very short amount of time and I felt like it was really just setting up the story for the next book. In this book we’re getting hints and the grander plot and we’re getting a ton of the character backstory and development and also the relationship building of our main characters. I predict that when book 2 comes around it will be a 5 star read for me.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content
Moderate: Slavery, Violence, Death of parent, Fire/Fire injury, Injury/Injury detail
Minor: Sexual violence, War
Was expecting the usual love triangle but it was WAY better. There is pining, intrigue, and the banter was excellent. The buildup was slow but the 🌶️ at the end felt so right. The plot is tight (albeit not much unfolded so there wasn’t much to critique) and character arcs felt genuine and well thought out, very excited to see how our MCs continue to develop in book 2!
adventurous
dark
emotional
mysterious
sad
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Brigid Kemmerer has restored my faith in romantasy!
In a market saturated with mediocre romantasy books, Warrior Princess Assassin shows that you can take the overdone tropes and micro tropes, write them in a fresh, non-cliche way and produce a banger of a book.
This is very much a character driven story and I adored our MCs. Individually they have flaws and can be frustrating but together they create balance and round each other out well. And Asher, poor broken Asher. He must be protected at all costs! The tension and the push and pull leading up to the spicy scene was oh so delicious.
The plot takes a back seat to the relationship between the MCs but that doesn't mean it was lacking. We get a slower introduction to the world and magic system. However, there was plenty of political intrigue and action to keep me hooked. I appreciated that Kemmerer did fall into the trap of overwhelming readers with a massive info-dump about the world and magic system.
WPA is a great first book in what promises to be an epic romantasy trilogy. The MCs have been in depth and for book 2 I would love a deeper insight into the world, especially the magic system. I'm predicting we'll see more from Jory for sure in that regard.
Thank you Netgalley and HarperCollins UK for the eArc. Warrior Princess Assassin emotionally destroyed me and I'm already desperate for the second book!
In a market saturated with mediocre romantasy books, Warrior Princess Assassin shows that you can take the overdone tropes and micro tropes, write them in a fresh, non-cliche way and produce a banger of a book.
This is very much a character driven story and I adored our MCs. Individually they have flaws and can be frustrating but together they create balance and round each other out well. And Asher, poor broken Asher. He must be protected at all costs! The tension and the push and pull leading up to the spicy scene was oh so delicious.
The plot takes a back seat to the relationship between the MCs but that doesn't mean it was lacking. We get a slower introduction to the world and magic system. However, there was plenty of political intrigue and action to keep me hooked. I appreciated that Kemmerer did fall into the trap of overwhelming readers with a massive info-dump about the world and magic system.
WPA is a great first book in what promises to be an epic romantasy trilogy. The MCs have been in depth and for book 2 I would love a deeper insight into the world, especially the magic system. I'm predicting we'll see more from Jory for sure in that regard.
Thank you Netgalley and HarperCollins UK for the eArc. Warrior Princess Assassin emotionally destroyed me and I'm already desperate for the second book!
This book has everything that romantasy fans (like me) look for in books : high-stakes politics, slow-burn romance, elemental magic, and a storyline that makes you want to keep reading even when you should really sleep!
It was the second book (serie) from Brigid Kemmerer that I read (Defy the Night being the other one) and she has definitely become one of these authors that I will read any book from.
The story being told from three POVs made is so interesting to me, as it doesn’t happen that often in books. Each characters are unique : Maddox, the fire-wielding king; Jory, the princess with a magical legacy; and Asher, the would-be assassin. The triangle between these three never feels forced (which is a real plus as I personally find triangles usually awkwardly written). The world building, the political intrigue and threat of war, the emotional depth and the tension made it such a gripping book. I cannot wait for the next one!
It was the second book (serie) from Brigid Kemmerer that I read (Defy the Night being the other one) and she has definitely become one of these authors that I will read any book from.
The story being told from three POVs made is so interesting to me, as it doesn’t happen that often in books. Each characters are unique : Maddox, the fire-wielding king; Jory, the princess with a magical legacy; and Asher, the would-be assassin. The triangle between these three never feels forced (which is a real plus as I personally find triangles usually awkwardly written). The world building, the political intrigue and threat of war, the emotional depth and the tension made it such a gripping book. I cannot wait for the next one!
adventurous
dark
emotional
lighthearted
mysterious
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
ARC Review ~ 4.25☆
Okay, I wasn’t expecting to enjoy this book as much as I did—but wow, Warrior Princess Assassin pulled me in fast and kept me emotionally tangled in the absolute best way.
I’ve read a few F/M/M books before and I’ll be honest, I’m picky about them. The balance between characters and the plot has to be just right, or it ends up feeling messy or uneven. But Brigid Kemmerer completely nailed it here.
The story centers on Princess Jory, who’s supposed to be married off to King Ky for the sake of a fragile alliance their kingdoms desperately need. He’s feared across her land—rumored to be cruel and dangerous, with terrifying magical abilities. But when she meets him, he’s... not at all what she expected.
At the same time, her best friend and lifelong protector Asher—who also happens to be an assassin—has just been given a contract to kill Jory and King Ky. Instead of following through, Asher risks everything to warn Jory, and from that moment, the three of them are swept into a web of secrets, loyalty, betrayal, and a very complicated relationship dynamic that slowly unfolds into something much deeper.
Once the three of them set off together, the story takes a noticeable shift into character-driven territory. There's less external action for a stretch, but honestly? I didn’t mind at all.
Watching Jory, Ky, and Asher slowly learn to trust one another, question their own beliefs, and face their personal traumas was incredibly satisfying.
Each of their relationships—Jory and Ky, Ky and Asher, Jory and Asher—had its own dynamic, its own pace, and its own emotional resonance. Nothing felt rushed. Nothing felt like a shortcut. These were characters growing alongside each other, not just falling into attraction because the plot demanded it.
What really stood out to me was how thoughtfully each of their arcs was handled. This wasn’t a case of “insert love triangle, add drama.” There’s no “cheating” here either, because all three are aware of each other’s feelings from early on, and there’s a mutual understanding that unfolds with time. It’s rare to read a poly relationship done with this level of care and emotional realism—and I loved that no one ever felt like the “third wheel” or just thrown in for tension. All three—Jory, Ky, and Asher—were full characters in their own right, and their emotional journeys mattered just as much as the romance.
And don’t even get me started on the side characters and the found family vibes we pick up along the way—they were delightful. From the gruff allies to the unexpected moments of tenderness, it was such a pleasure to be in this world.
This is very much an adult fantasy, and it doesn’t shy away from its darker elements. Asher, especially, has a painful and traumatic past that’s shaped him into someone guarded and often cold. But Jory’s journey—learning to see all of Asher, not just the childhood friend she knew—was beautiful. And Ky? Totally misunderstood. He’s got his own secrets and scars, and watching the layers peel back on his character was so rewarding. Their bonds aren’t built on lust or idealized romance—they’re built on long talks, hard truths, shared danger, and growing respect.
Now let’s talk about the spice. I usually don’t love explicit scenes in fantasy—too many books shove them in too early and too fast just for shock or appeal, sacrificing emotional depth. But this? This was the exception.
The intimacy in Warrior Princess Assassin only happens at the very very end and is slow, careful, respectful, and deeply character-focused. Each of the three main characters has a different relationship with intimacy, and the way their boundaries and vulnerabilities are handled made those scenes mean something.
That said, the scene does unfold over several chapters, and I’ll admit it felt a bit long to me at times—but I’ll gladly take a slow, character-driven scene like that over a rushed one with no emotional weight.
This book might not be action-heavy for a stretch, but if you’re into rich character development, emotional depth, and unconventional relationships that are actually earned, then this is absolutely worth reading. I’m deeply invested in these characters now, and I’ll 100% be picking up the next book in the trilogy. The dynamics are just so unique and well-executed—I can’t wait to see where Kemmerer takes them.
Final thoughts:
If you love slow-burn romances, complicated relationship dynamics (including polyamory), found family, characters with trauma and healing arcs, and respectful, earned intimacy, then Warrior Princess Assassin is definitely for you.
Just make sure you check the content warnings ahead of time—this is an adult fantasy with explicit scenes and mature themes.
This book surprised me in the best way, and I’m so glad I had the privilege to read this ARC! Thank you, NetGalley.
I went into this book with no idea what to expect, and it was such a good surprise! The first few chapters felt like the setup for a classic fantasy love triangle, but as the story unfolded it grew into something so much deeper. The characters are messy, flawed, and deeply (and sometimes frustratingly) human, and I mean that as the highest compliment. It’s much more character-driven than plot-driven, and it worked really really well.
First, we have Ky - the warrior. Grounded, loyal, and emotionally intelligent. His care for his people, his protectiveness over his sister, and the way he's willing to listen, compromise, and give both Jory and Asher the space and understanding they need? Just… ugh. He’s such a steady emotional anchor, even when the others don’t know what they want or how to ask for it.
Then there’s Jory, the princess. Earlier on in the story she came across as quite naive and thoughtless, which made it difficult to connect with her character. But her growth once she got some distance from her controlled upbringing was so satisfying. Watching her step into her own powerand eventually decide to challenge her asshole of a brother - what a transformation.
And last, but absolutely not least, there's Asher - the assassin. Traumatized, guarded, and terrified of being vulnerable. His backstory hit me way harder than I expected, and honestly, he deserved so much better from the world. The way he protects Jory with everything he has, while slowly and almost reluctantly beginning to trust Ky? My heart. He’s the kind of broken that doesn’t magically get better - but he's learning, little by little, how to let people in.
If you love character-driven fantasy with emotional depth, slow-burn connections, and main characters who really earn their growth, Warrior Princess Assassin is absolutely worth the read.
First, we have Ky - the warrior. Grounded, loyal, and emotionally intelligent. His care for his people, his protectiveness over his sister, and the way he's willing to listen, compromise, and give both Jory and Asher the space and understanding they need? Just… ugh. He’s such a steady emotional anchor, even when the others don’t know what they want or how to ask for it.
Then there’s Jory, the princess. Earlier on in the story she came across as quite naive and thoughtless, which made it difficult to connect with her character. But her growth once she got some distance from her controlled upbringing was so satisfying. Watching her step into her own power
And last, but absolutely not least, there's Asher - the assassin. Traumatized, guarded, and terrified of being vulnerable. His backstory hit me way harder than I expected, and honestly, he deserved so much better from the world. The way he protects Jory with everything he has, while slowly and almost reluctantly beginning to trust Ky? My heart. He’s the kind of broken that doesn’t magically get better - but he's learning, little by little, how to let people in.
If you love character-driven fantasy with emotional depth, slow-burn connections, and main characters who really earn their growth, Warrior Princess Assassin is absolutely worth the read.
Sooo I thought this was a love triangle based on the title and synopsis. It is NOT. This is a "why choose" romance, which... is not my thing. That being said, I adore Brigid's writing so I wanted to give it a chance and... I didn't hate it? I still can't say I love it though and I feel a bit silly having been so eager for an arc now. I think perhaps the marketing should try to be a bit clearer? I adored the romance between each of the couples separately, but I guess I'm just a monogamous/ jealous girly?😂 Asher and Ky's characters are SO good though, I was actually surprised that the Princess was my least favorite character, but that's only because I loved the guys so much. I also really enjoy the way Brigid does politics in her books, it's so easily digestible, thoughtful and actually makes me like reading about it! There was a bit of it in this but not as much as I would've guessed- it's definitely romance focused. The spice is a little bit of a slowburn and I appreciated that, however the climax of the book was shorter than the eventual spicy scene? Granted the spice was good but I did feel a bit disappointed with the fantasy plot side. Overall it wasn't exactly what I wanted, but if you enjoy romance heavy romantasy with spice and polygamous romance, I think you'll love this one!
adventurous
emotional
funny
hopeful
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
I’ve never been so sad to reach the end of the book - I’d like the next one yesterday please!
Jory, the Princess is being forced to marry Prince Kye, the warrior, in a bid to form an alliance between their two nations. But, not it appears to not everyone is onboard with this alliance, as Asher, the assassin, soon learns.
I feel like this book was just the tip of potential for these characters. It sowed the seeds perfectly, with intriguing back stories and the sparks of romance - plus some found family (a trope I love).
Each of the main characters is on their own journey. Jory is learning her view of the world is not quite what she was lead to believe. Asher is having to learn to be vulnerable. Whilst Ky is learning how to trust. All of them are sleeping with one eye open.
I do think a trick was missed not calling it ‘Warrior Assassin Princess’, but whatever.
Thank you NetGalley and HarperCollins UK
adventurous
emotional
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Oh, I enjoyed it so much more than I was expecting, a perfect romantasy. I had so much fun and I absolutely loved the main characters!!
Jory, the Princess of Astranza, is forced to marry the King of Incendar, to form an alliance her kingdom desperately needs. King Ky is a feared leader of his kingdom, but he needs the power of Jory's father to save his people. Asher is an assassin, a childhood friend of Jory, tasked with killing them both. But who is trying to killed them both before the alliance is forged? The three of them will have to figure that out, all while a simmering tension grows between them..
The main reason I requested this book is because I knew this wasn't a love triangle, so don't go into it expecting that. As far as I'm concerned, this is the only right way to do the relationship when there are three main characters involved. There was so much tension between them, a delicious slowburn filled with conflict, trust issues, banter and so much chemistry. The three of them were such a delight to read, I hope it continues in this direction. When you add to that political intrigue, betrayal, great secondary characters and immaculate worldbuilding, you get a story you will absolutely love.
The characters, not the plot, were driving the story, which I loved. The story was set up perfectly. We were slowly introduced to the world and we really got to know the characters.
Asher, his story broke my heart, it's always the tortured souls that get me.
Ky, ruthless yet so kind and protective, made me fall in love with him almost instantly. His soldiers and he, and the way they were with each other, were one of my favourite parts.
Jory, such a compelling character. She was incredibly sheltered and naive, but I loved how she came into her own strength.
I can't wait to see where the story takes them. I will be anxiously waiting for book two. The story is just starting, since we got more of the plot towards the end. I guessed the traitor pretty easily, but that honestly didn't take away much from the story.
I devoured this book in one breath, I couldn't pull myself from it. Can book two come any quicker?
*Thank you to Netgalley and to Harper Collins UK for providing me with an ARC.*
Jory, the Princess of Astranza, is forced to marry the King of Incendar, to form an alliance her kingdom desperately needs. King Ky is a feared leader of his kingdom, but he needs the power of Jory's father to save his people. Asher is an assassin, a childhood friend of Jory, tasked with killing them both. But who is trying to killed them both before the alliance is forged? The three of them will have to figure that out, all while a simmering tension grows between them..
The main reason I requested this book is because I knew this wasn't a love triangle, so don't go into it expecting that. As far as I'm concerned, this is the only right way to do the relationship when there are three main characters involved. There was so much tension between them, a delicious slowburn filled with conflict, trust issues, banter and so much chemistry. The three of them were such a delight to read, I hope it continues in this direction. When you add to that political intrigue, betrayal, great secondary characters and immaculate worldbuilding, you get a story you will absolutely love.
The characters, not the plot, were driving the story, which I loved. The story was set up perfectly. We were slowly introduced to the world and we really got to know the characters.
Asher, his story broke my heart, it's always the tortured souls that get me.
Ky, ruthless yet so kind and protective, made me fall in love with him almost instantly. His soldiers and he, and the way they were with each other, were one of my favourite parts.
Jory, such a compelling character. She was incredibly sheltered and naive, but I loved how she came into her own strength.
I can't wait to see where the story takes them. I will be anxiously waiting for book two. The story is just starting, since we got more of the plot towards the end. I guessed the traitor pretty easily, but that honestly didn't take away much from the story.
I devoured this book in one breath, I couldn't pull myself from it. Can book two come any quicker?
*Thank you to Netgalley and to Harper Collins UK for providing me with an ARC.*
adventurous
emotional
reflective
medium-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
Brigid Kemmerer's adult debut is the first book in the new Braided Fate trilogy. I was instantly hooked by this book - it had me tearing up at only 7% in because of the relationship between Princess Jory and assassin Asher. And then the warrior King Ky entered the picture and I loved him as well! The plot hooked me for sure, but it was the relationships between all three main characters that had me absolutely inhaling this.
I couldn't pick a favourite if I tried. Jory, Asher and Ky are all complex characters rather than stereotypes, and they have distinct relationships with each other, each providing something different and essential to the other. None of the relationships seem lesser than or more than the others. I just found this beautiful. Their relationships make so much sense because of the darker themes that affect the characters, such as trauma, slavery, sexual abuse and war. It was balanced so well and didn't feel surface level in the slightest. It really did feel like these characters were leading the story rather than the plot sort of placing them in position.
I know I'll be desperate to get to the sequels because there was just something about this story and these particular characters that instantly clicked with me. I loved every minute of Warrior Princess Assassin, and although I've read a lot of books already this year, I think this one might be my favourite. When I wasn't reading it, I was thinking about it, desperate to get back to these characters. It's going to be a long, impatient wait for book 2, but until then, there's always a reread waiting for me!
Disclaimer: I received an Advance Reader Copy from NetGalley, but this is my voluntary and honest review.