A review by jayceejarvis
The Merchant's Love by Antonia Aquilante

emotional hopeful inspiring medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes

5.0

 This story had the best demi-sexual rep I think I've ever seen in a romance--extra remarkable since this is a cozy fantasy without the terminology for it. At the beginning of the story Faelen enjoys talking to Maxen and forming a friendship with the commoner, but it is clear he doesn't feel attraction and hasn't experienced desire for anyone. Maxen is attracted to Faelen but he values their growing friendship and doesn't imagine he can have anything more with someone so far above his station. Faelen's attraction slowly awakens after their friendship is established, and even after he realizes he wants to kiss Maxen, they go very slow on the sexual front, with refreshingly clear communication all around. All in all just a lovely charming slow burn romance. There were some broader plot holes with a spell gone wrong, but overall a very satisfying cozy fantasy with characters I really enjoyed. Highly recommend this entire series for fans of cozy fantasy romance with a dash of political intrigue.