1.21k reviews for:

Queen of Roses

Briar Boleyn

3.74 AVERAGE

adventurous dark emotional mysterious 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: No

Ummm, tell me why more people don’t know about this book and how awesome it is?!

This is the perfect story for people who love from blood and ash and a court of thorns and roses.

I did not expect a King Arther retelling but I am a sucker for stories like this so this book is right up my alley.

It is SO well written and keeps you wanting to turn the page as you get closer and closer to the upcoming revelations. You can tell this was a lot of (very well done) world building to get us into what I’m sure is going to be an epic story.


I LOVED this book and I’m already starting the 2nd! I can’t get enough of Morgan and Draven and the end of this book had me talking out loud to myself in awe. The world is built beautifully and I’m so excited to see where we’re going in book 2… read this book! It’s definitely slow burn, some spice, our FMC just keeps getting better and cooler. I love the writing and imagery and I was completely transported to their realm ✨

“And then, before Orcades vanished like a wraith, she touched a finger to my forehead and cursed me with a single word. "Remember."
So I did.
I remembered my mother.
I remembered her running through the city of Numenos with me in her arms.”

This SENT ME! I love a big mind blowing moment like this! I’m going to devour this series!
adventurous emotional mysterious medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated

I had forgotten the blurb of this book when I started reading, but actually it just made me really excited when I started noticing the little Arthurian subtleties and name references!

I really enjoyed this book, I started reading while I was in a bit of a book-hangover from a previous story and had struggled to get interested in anything I was reading. This story really gripped me and kept me hooked, wanting to find out what was going on. The secrets and stories are revealed gradually in a way that keeps your attention, wanting to find out more about what is going on, without dumping all the info on you at once.

I've always loved the legend of King Arthur, but this book gives a completely unique spin on it, and I loved it. I am a little mad that Arthur is a bit of a bad guy, but I have my theories about him that may or may not explain why he's such a d!ck...

I also loved the LGBT representation in the story, I identify as a cis-straight woman, but I appreciated the way the topic was approached in the story. There are references to homophobia in this book, but I think the way it is used to highlight the support and understanding from some characters, and to discredit others is a powerful tool.

I will definitely be picking up the rest of the series, and I can't wait to see what happens!
mnesgoda's profile picture

mnesgoda's review

5.0

First off, thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!

I had absolutely no idea what to expect with this book. I have read so many retellings of Camelot and King Arthur’s court, that you never know where it’s going next with a book of this type.

To say I was pleasantly surprised would be a massive understatement! The story centers around Morgan Prendragon (20), and her life in Camelot as the first born child of King Uther. Morgan, spending most of her life shunned for being half fae, resigns herself to a life of celibacy as a priestess in training when she turns 21, instead of becoming Queen since she is half fae and deemed unworthy of the throne.

What swiftly follows is a whirlwind of adventure, as her life changes more than she ever thought possible.

Absolutely cannot wait to start Book 2!

First off, thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!

I had absolutely no idea what to expect with this book. I have read so many retellings of Camelot and King Arthur’s court, that you never know where it’s going next with a book of this type.

To say I was pleasantly surprised would be a massive understatement! The story centers around Morgan Prendragon (20), and her life in Camelot as the first born child of King Uther. Morgan, spending most of her life shunned for being half fae, resigns herself to a life of celibacy as a priestess in training when she turns 21, instead of becoming Queen since she is half fae and deemed unworthy of the throne.

What swiftly follows is a whirlwind of adventure, as her life changes more than she ever thought possible.

Absolutely cannot wait to start Book 2!

Whew what a whirlwind.

I liked this book a lot and will be reading the 2nd one.

I enjoyed Draven's character more than Morgan's but that tends to happen to me.

I did not see the full twist coming but knew something was up!

flew through it

⭐ Characters – ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
⭐ Atmosphere – ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
⭐ Writing – ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
⭐ Plot – ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
⭐ Pacing – ⭐⭐⭐⭐
⭐ World Building – ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
⭐ Enjoyment – ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐


Wow, I have to say, I went into this book with modest expectations since it's a debut, but boy, was I pleasantly surprised! Queen of Roses by Briar Boleyn is an enchanting debut that seamlessly blends romance, mythology, and fantasy into a captivating tapestry. Set in a beautifully imagined Medieval-Middle Ages fantasy world, the story embarks on a thrilling road trip adventure with a slow-burning romance full of unexpected twists and turns.

The characters in this novel are truly remarkable. Each one is expertly crafted, multi-dimensional, and their backgrounds and relationships are explored in a way that draws readers in. The inclusion of LGBTQIA+ representation adds depth and makes the setting even more inclusive and heartwarming.

The atmosphere of Queen of Roses is nothing short of magical. Boleyn's vivid descriptions breathe life into the fantastical world, immersing readers in a realm of wonder and intrigue that keeps their attention piqued and their desire to keep reading intact.

Boleyn's writing style is nothing short of impressive. The prose flows smoothly and beautifully captures the essence of emotions and events, drawing readers even further into the story.

The plot is a definite strength of the book. Well-constructed and brimming with unexpected twists and turns, it keeps readers engaged from start to finish. The incorporation of a treasure hunt, mythical discoveries and creatures, friendships, family dynamics, and romance elevates the reading experience to a whole new level.

The pacing is well-balanced, allowing readers to savor every moment without feeling rushed, ensuring a thoroughly enjoyable journey.

The world-building in Queen of Roses is masterful. Boleyn has created a rich and intricate world complete with its own mythology and lore. The attention to detail and depth of this fictional universe will leave readers thoroughly impressed.

In conclusion, Queen of Roses is an exceptional debut that leaves a lasting impression. Briar Boleyn's storytelling skills shine throughout the narrative, making me eagerly anticipate the second book in the series. If you're on the hunt for a captivating fantasy romance with a unique blend of elements, this book is an absolute must-add to your reading list.

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.