Of Rioters and Royals

Title: Of Rioters & Royals

Author: m. l. greye

Pages: 421 pages

Series or Stand Alone: Book 1 of Swift Shadows series

Stars: 5

People of Color?: Yes

Bechdel Test (Women): Yes

Trigger Warning: Some characters deal with PTSD from traumatic events that occur before the book begins. So, references to violence/abuse. Nothing inappropriately violent.

I received a free eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I loved Of Rioters and Royals! The story follows princess Emry (a Royal) and Declan (a Rioter) who are brought together for the Princess Trials. Both have ulterior motives as each represents two factions vying for power in the country of Enlennd. A Royal supports the current ruling monarchs while the Rioters work to wrest control from the monarchy because of their failure to protect the people. The reader can tell where some of the story will go (which makes it a fun read) but there is so much going on that the reader will continually be surprised by the story arc.

After the Princess Trials are complete, both Emry and Declan are faced with issues of loyalty and trust. An attack on the palace galvanizes circumstances and throws both down a new path. In the meantime, their relationship is full of surprises as they reveal their magic to one another.

The magic system is also really interesting and keeps the reader guessing! The major magic a person possesses is reflected in a person’s eye color (such as teal for speed) and a lesser power is manifested through a second, speckled color (such as strength).

Likes: I really liked the magic system and I thought the history of the country of fleshed out well. I also loved Emry! She’s complex and strong.

Recommended for: Anyone who likes fantasy, YA, and romance.

Ages: There is violence, but it isn’t overly vicious. Romance is also clean. I’d recommend it for teens and ups. While it is YA, I had a lot of fun reading it as an adult.

I also want to add that this book is available with a Kindle Unlimited subscription!