Book: The Truth-Teller's Bargain by Camille Wolfewood
Reviewed by IvI
Rating: 4/5
I really liked the whole idea of this story. I mean, an evil Queen who's constantly exploiting her daughter's magic? And the poor Princess was being held in a tower with no one to trust, only waiting to be summoned by her mother? I'm sold!
The beginning was so intriguing and I was really invested in Alathea's fated magic and how she would escape her gilded cage.
But sadly, I felt like the story wasn't delivered just right. The world building was amazing, but I didn't entirely understand the magic system: there were people with magic, blessed by the Gods and Goddesses, but there were others without. And then, there were the ones cursed by Aeshma's Mark, with magic and beastie features. It was all very interesting, but I would've loved to know more about it.
The romance didn't feel much like a "slow burn", but more like an "insta-love", especially from the MMC, who was suddenly so, so in love. I truly enjoyed reading about his past, and how he got to be where he is now. His character was intriguing and lovable, but Nakir could've spent some time getting to know Alethea, really knowing her, not just being interested in her because of how she looked.
The Found Family trope also felt a bit rushed. They accepted and loved Alethea within days, and I would've loved to see that bond build more slowly. I think it would've made it feel more realistic.
I get that Alethea was traumatized and didn't know how to navigate the real world, but at the same time she made so many bad decisions, and was really naive most of the time. She has to learn how to grow up. The fact that the characters were older, 25+, was a huge PLUS for me!
The ending was really tragic, and we are left wondering if they'll be together again, and whether they'll be fighting the Queen or still be looking for more allies.
Maybe book 2 will bring answers to my remaining questions...
This book has these amazing Tropes:
Dark Fantasy Romance
Evil Queen
Gods & Goddesses Powers
Descendant Curse
Imminent War
Rebellion
Enemies to Lovers
Found Family
25+ MCs