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A review by speculativeshelves
The Bridge Kingdom by Danielle L. Jensen
adventurous
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
Solid fantasy romance that checks a lot boxes for me personally: political intrigue, a well-paced slow-burn romance, enemies to lovers, marriage of convenience, betrayals. The ending was particularly strong and makes me excited to read the sequel.
What makes this not quite a 4 star for me is the fact that while I enjoyed everything I didn't find any of it particularly memorable. I'm not sure how much I'm going to think about this story when compared to similar stories that I've read. I quite liked both Lara and Aren but ultimately I wish they had more depth (same goes for various side characters who I enjoyed but felt one-note). The tropical setting was unique but I never felt immersed. The political intrigue was well-executed but at times quite predictable.
Ultimately I was in the mood for an enjoyable romantasy and this delivered even if it wasn't the most memorable. I definitely recommend as a "lighter" romantasy read that still has a decent amount of plot - there are high stakes but it's not a super complex or convoluted story. I particularly think it's a great bridge (lol) from YA fantasy to Adult Romantasy - the writing style definitely reminds me quite a bit of Throne of Glass and Dance of Thieves in particular.
What makes this not quite a 4 star for me is the fact that while I enjoyed everything I didn't find any of it particularly memorable. I'm not sure how much I'm going to think about this story when compared to similar stories that I've read. I quite liked both Lara and Aren but ultimately I wish they had more depth (same goes for various side characters who I enjoyed but felt one-note). The tropical setting was unique but I never felt immersed. The political intrigue was well-executed but at times quite predictable.
Ultimately I was in the mood for an enjoyable romantasy and this delivered even if it wasn't the most memorable. I definitely recommend as a "lighter" romantasy read that still has a decent amount of plot - there are high stakes but it's not a super complex or convoluted story. I particularly think it's a great bridge (lol) from YA fantasy to Adult Romantasy - the writing style definitely reminds me quite a bit of Throne of Glass and Dance of Thieves in particular.