Romantasy is having its moment, and Throne of the Fallen by Kerri Maniscalco is the next big thing. Like most other romantasies of the moment, it plays with the idea of falling for the villain, in a classic enemies-to-lovers situation set in a sometimes familiar, historical feeling world.
Camilla is an artist and sometimes art forger living in a place that resembles Regency London. With both of her parents gone, she’s left to navigate the dangers of being a woman in society with only the help of her best friend, Kitty.
At the book’s opening, this isn’t going fabulously well for Camilla. She’s being blackmailed by a man who discovered her forgery, and he’s trying to trap her into marrying him. Her reputation, her art gallery, and her happiness are all on the line.
In a whole different realm, hell is ruled by seven demon princes, each of whom has their own sin from which they draw their power. The Prince of Envy’s court is dying, and he will do anything to try to fix the damage before it is too late. When a mysterious Fae offers him a game in exchange for the chance to repair his court, Envy has no choice but to say yes.
Throne of the Fallen has some of the best romance and romantasy tropes in its pages. There are enemies-to-lovers, only one bed, and a satisfying slow burn. It’s a creative magical system and plot, but with all the classic elements that readers love in a romantasy.
From the very first page, I was immediately captivated by the writing style. There was a slow start in the plot, but once it gets going it’s going. I was so glad I kept going because before I even realized what happened I was utterly enthralled. This author is very adept at keeping secrets from her readers until the opportune moment, and it makes for a very suspenseful read, especially in the second half.
This book requires patience, but it is a standalone so the length makes sense even though it’s technically the first in the series, the next book will follow different characters as the protagonists. The world-building and magical system are both fantastic and while it takes a little time to settle in with the plot and characters, the author gives the reader ample time to do so. If you are looking for a satisfying romantasy, Throne of the Fallen is a great addition to your TBR.
Spice: 2.5
Writing: 3.5
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