A review by talknerdybookblog
A Deal with the Elf King by Elise Kova

adventurous emotional lighthearted mysterious medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

No strong representations of diverse characters or minority identities.

Overall: 3/5 stars

Quick Take: A standalone epic fantasy loosely based on the mythology of Hades and Persephone, and while an enemies-to-lovers romance that has its sweet parts, the lack of world-building, endearing characterizations and number of plot holes made the novel quite anti-climatic.

Read my full review on my blog:
Talk Nerdy Book Blog | A Deal with the Elf King Review

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Safety Rating: Safe with Exceptions

• No cheating
• Does have OW/OM drama (kind of)
– The Heroine was in love with her childhood best friend, but he turns out to be an asshole. And, apparently, she wasn't "in love" with him but loved the idea of him? (There's kissing *before* the Heroine meets the Hero)
– The Hero tried to date/court *his* best friend 3-4 years ago; she's currently the Hand of the King. They both agreed they were better off friends. Their relationship didn't progress past kissing, but apparently, that attempt made them closer as friends. 
• Does have the Hero and Heroine pushing each other away
• Does have a separation between the Heroine and Hero


Possible Triggers: Yes

• Parental neglect
• Themes of isolation and abandonment


Ending:
HFN... but the extended epilogue shows it's a HEA (you can access the extra scene through the back of the ebook or on Elise Kova's website)