The Orchid Throne by Jeffe Kennedy….ARC Review

Synopsis:

Welcome to the world of Forgotten Empires from award winning author Jeffe Kennedy that begins with The Orchid Throne.

A PRISONER OF FATE

As Queen of the island kingdom of Calanthe, Euthalia will do anything to keep her people free—and her secrets safe—from the mad tyrant who rules the mainland. Guided by a magic ring of her father’s, Lia plays the political game with the cronies the emperor sends to her island. In her heart, she knows that it’s up to her to save herself from her fate as the emperor’s bride. But in her dreams, she sees a man, one with the power to build a better world—a man whose spirit is as strong, and whose passion is as fierce as her own…

A PRINCE AMONG MEN

Conrí, former Crown Prince of Oriel, has built an army to overthrow the emperor. But he needs the fabled Abiding Ring to succeed. The ring that Euthalia holds so dear to her heart. When the two banished rulers meet face to face, neither can deny the flames of rebellion that flicker in their eyes—nor the fires of desire that draw them together. But in this broken world of shattered kingdoms, can they ever really trust each other? Can their fiery alliance defeat the shadows of evil that threaten to engulf their hearts and souls?

My Review:

The Orchid Throne is the first adventure in a planned series and I absolutely intend to come back for more! The writing is edgy for a fantasy novel and held my interest. The character quirks Jeffe Kennedy took time to weave into the story are gems to look forward to in future books.

Though in some ways this story felt a little short and rushed at the end, more of a prologue setting-up other books, I can’t wait to check back in to read more about the dashing Conri as well as Queen Lia’s unusual talents and origins. The island of Calanthe itself, a place where sex and pleasure are openly enjoyed, features prominently in the story and should inspire all kinds of fun, steamy scenes!