Thank you to Simon & Schuster CA for providing me with an advanced copy of The Serpent and the Wolf in exchange for an honest review.
I went into this one pretty blind but it sounded like a fun political intrigue, new magical system romantasy. I am so glad that I did. The beginning has a lot of character introductions and world building but once the story line really gets going it is hard to put it down.
Vassa has been used as a tool her entire life. Turned into a weapon by her father by learning how to speak languages of countries in order to manipulate treaties and understand the best way to always be in control. Her brother now has raised to the throne and his only threat to power the life of his older sister. Her marriage allows an opening to his reign being taken by her husband.
But Vassa does not want to be married. She dreams of freedom. Of seeing the many corners of the world and exploring the learning as much as she can. She does not want to be tied to a kingdom and rule.
As Vassa gets closer to her husband Reid, they realise that they share common goals and can work together in order to get what they want. A marriage built on a deal they can both live with is what kicks off this fast paced intriguing story that will eventually be a trilogy.
I learned to really like Vassa. I wasn’t sure about her in the beginning but as we learn that she has always been used as a pawn in her life, you start to understand why she acts the way she does. She sees the magic inside of her as a curse but as she learns more about the history of it and the ways that it can be used, she begins to grow in her own power. Rather than allowing the emotions inside of her to rule, she beings to use them to raise herself up and become a force to be reckoned with. At her side is Reid, a man who understands her more than she knew was possible, a ally who wants to make the world into a better and safer place for his entire country, and knows that her knowledge and abilities are an incredible resource.
The love story is a slow burn, but written in a way that feels so natural and true to these amazing characters. You feel your own walls beginning to lower as you learn more about Reid and his intentions. There are some on page spice scenes but nothing too explicit.
If you like world building and learning about histories and new magical systems then you are going to love this new release from Rebecca Robinson which is now available where all books are sold or to borrow from your local library. If you would like to support my blog then please click my affiliate link here.
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