Reviews with content warning for Child death - The Foxglove King

Deliciously dark and gloriously intriguing! Hannah Whitten’s prose was once again a breathtakingly vivid and atmospheric treat for the senses, merging magic, court intrigue and a deliciously addictive (forbidden) romance that utterly ensnared me.

I adored protagonist, Lore despite her flawed and often selfish tendencies. But her upbringing (raised by poison smugglers) and the necessary secret keeping when it came to her abilities (to control death magic,and even occasionally raise the dead) really showcases her need for self-preservation. When first introduced, Lore’s a sharp witted and incredibly guarded character who rarely trusts anyone, but as she spends more time with warrior priest, Gabriel and roguish Prince Bastian, we begin to unearth a slightly softer, more vulnerable side that I found incredibly endearing.

Bastian and Gabriel, as characters were both quite endearing and in depth as well, as we delve into their pasts and understand the actions and motivations that have shaped them. I liked Bastian who’s flirtatious and outgoing demeanour could rival even Cardan and Jacks at the height of their charm . But, I have to admit it was the brooding but loyal, duke turned monk (Gabriel) that managed to steal my heart.

His chemistry with Lore was palpable and their intensity together was spectacularly swoonworthy. It did get some love triangle esque vibes between Lore, Bastian and Gabriel so interested to see where (and how) things develop.

It’s definitely my fave of Hannah Whitten’s books soo far and I can’t wait to get my hands on a copy the sequel.

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manaledi's review against another edition

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adventurous dark mysterious slow-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.25

This book started slowly but had some interesting developments and I'm very curious to see where book two goes. A fairly hit you over the head with it religious imagery on themes like separation of church and state. I thought the poison element was interesting but wished mortem was laid out more clearly.

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givemehappyendings's review against another edition

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adventurous dark mysterious medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.5

I genuinely can not figure why this book has not popped off yet, IT’S SO GOOD.

I’ve had this book sitting on my shelf for a year, on a whim I decided to read it, easily one of my top fantasy books this year.

I ate this book up in DAYS

Our FMC is witty, sassy, growing into her power, and I dare say, a GIRLS GIRL. I genuinely love Lore so much and am so excited to see where her character goes.

Bastian and Gabe are the perfect MCs to compliment a strong FMC, and WOOOOWEEEEEEE do we love a flirtatious prince and a religious man tempted by sin😮‍💨

The world building is immersive but nothing too heavy for those dipping their toes into fantasy.

It’s giving Cruel Prince level political intrigue, and the plot twists do not disappoint.

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lunaquarius's review against another edition

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adventurous dark mysterious medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Plot
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.5

The premise of the book felt novel, albeit steeped in well known tropes. Our mail character Lore felt somewhat flat, I found it difficult to parse out her personality, though her shining characteristics in the end were surprising.

I enjoyed the religious overtones of this book, with experts of texts beginning each chapter.

I made a note of each time a character was explicitly described as white, which I count was at least 8 times. Only one other character was described otherwise. It felt awkward and overt to call out each time, especially with insignificant characters. There is no diversity in this book.

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ladypalutena's review against another edition

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dark mysterious medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Plot
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.75

Yet again, I have found myself reading the first book of an incomplete duology. This one is just as good as the last - again with the excellent magic system, the unwilling trio thrown together, and a dark plot that threatens to overwhelm the kingdom. At least I have a publication date for the next book.

Bastian is by and far my favorite character,

but the ending makes me worry that he's going to become a terrible king. He is absolutely the one that I want Lore to end up with, if she has to end up with someone, because I still don't trust Gabe and I don't think there's enough chemistry between Lore and Gabe to justify them being endgame.

It took me longer than expected to finish this book. I think it's because it is so dense - there's a lot going on, a lot of names and rules to follow, but it's a great read. I may end up buying this duology in physical form when it comes out!

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