A review by trixie_woodlawn_writes
The Bride of Lycaster by Perci Jay

adventurous emotional tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

Devastated by the loss of her brothers, Serafina Ravenwood decides to do anything to protect her family. Even if it means seducing her enemies, or marrying a giant. 

This book has a lot of action. And a very creative premise. I also really enjoyed the Nordic influence on the mythology. And as someone who grew up in the height of purity culture, I felt represented and seen by some of the rituals and customs that Serafina and the other women had to endure. Seriously. I have never seen another author represent the experience of living through sexist purity culture as a young girl the way that Perci Jay has. 

So why did I rate it three stars? 

Because I read this book because of the TikTok videos about the cucumber and there was no giant cucumbering in this book! Yep. I'll admit it. And I know what that says about me as a person. But. I. Was. So. Mad. I take my smut seriously. *Sighs dramatically*


Who would enjoy this book? You'll like this book if you lean more toward New Adult/Young Adult in your romantasy than if you lean more toward cozy romantasy. The pace is FAST and Serafina is not the most easy-to-love main character. 
Check your trigger warnings if forced purity culture isn't your thing. I felt very represented, but that may not be true for everyone.