Reviews with content warning for 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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bookboxbabe's review against another edition

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dark emotional hopeful tense medium-paced

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

5.0

when i die, bury me with this book

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teaand_tomes's review against another edition

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dark emotional mysterious fast-paced

5.0

A dark yet stunning tale that masterfully interweaves elements of magic, mystery, and drug addiction into a dense web of political intrigue. Every element of Whitten’s narrative is unique and beautifully crafted, making this a standout in the realms of romance and fantasy. Her writing style is nothing short of commendable, and this book sets a high bar for the rest of the series.

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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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mlottermoser's review against another edition

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adventurous dark tense 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

3.0

Poison society with magical elements and political intrigue. Death and reanimation are used frequently in the story. (Horse/Small Child)

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ee1000's review against another edition

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adventurous dark mysterious tense fast-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? It's complicated

4.75

Wow wow wow, this book was a ride. I had just finished the “For the Wolf” series and picked this series up right afterwards and honestly I loved that series but this one is so far, better.

First, the magic and world building is top notch. The betrayals, the trust built between characters (some who deserve it, others who don’t) is exceptional. I honestly didn’t know what was going to happen next and who was good and who was bad. Even at the end I wonder who is going to come out of the shadows and show their true nature next.

The characters are fabulous, I haven’t read a book in a while that features a potential love triangle and honestly after this book I still don’t know if there’s a main love interest! I haven’t seen a love triangle done this well… ever really. I loved all the characters and each one has secrets and bad decisions that bring them to the end of the book.

I’d highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a new fantasy series that will keep you guessing until the end!

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puddleshoes's review against another edition

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dark funny reflective tense medium-paced

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

5.0

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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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