ARC Review: The Stolen Kingdom by Jillian Boehme

Hi everyone.

I was very happy to receive an e-ARC of The Stolen Kingdom by Jillian Boehme from Netgalley and MacMillan Tor/Forge in exchange for an honest review. The book will be out on March 2, 2021.

The Stolen Kingdom is a new standalone YA fantasy with lots of intrigue and a unique magic system.

Book Info:

Title: The Stolen Kingdom

Author: Jillian Boehme

Genre: Fantasy

Publication Date: March 2, 2021

Length: 320 Pages

Goodreads Rating: 3.69

My Rating: 4/5

Goodreads Synopsis:

For a hundred years, the once-prosperous kingdom of Perin Faye has suffered under the rule of the greedy and power-hungry Thungrave kings. Maralyth Graylaern, a vintner’s daughter, has no idea her hidden magical power is proof of a secret bloodline and claim to the throne. Alac Thungrave, the king’s second son, has always been uncomfortable with his position as the spare heir—and the dark, stolen magic that comes with ruling.

When Maralyth becomes embroiled in a plot to murder the royal family and seize the throne, a cat-and-mouse chase ensues in an adventure of dark magic, court intrigue, and forbidden love.

My Thoughts:

First off, I really enjoyed that this book was a standalone. I like series, but I think it’s refreshing to read a story that can stand on its own. The book hooked me from the first few pages. Perin Faye is a captivating world with an intriguing magic system. The ruling King stole and keeps power by controlling the magic in the land. One of our main characters Maralyth however, has a secret. She has magic and can convince plants to grow. I thought that her power was really neat. I also really enjoyed the vineyard setting and that wine making was a focal point.

Maralyth is also loyal and devoted to her family. Our other main character Alac is the kind, honorable, second son of the King, and he is wary of his father’s evil ways. I enjoyed reading from Alac’s point of view as well. He also has to deal with magic and how it impacts him.

I don’t want to give too much away but our two protagonists get swept up in a lot intrigue, involving hidden identities, power scheming plots and betrayal. Along the way they also begin to develop feelings for each other. The romance was sweet and not too steamy.

My only note would be that sometimes the plot seemed almost too fast-paced. I enjoyed the world and the characters and I sometimes found myself wishing that there was a bit more world-building and development.

I gave the book 4 out of 5 stars and would recommend it for fans of YA Fantasy. Especially if you’re looking for a fast-paced, standalone tale with lots of intrigue, plot twists, strong characters and a dash of romance.

Thank you to Netgalley and MacMillan Tor/Forge for providing me with an e-ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. I really enjoyed reading this book. The Stolen Kingdom by Jillian Boehme will be available on March 2, 2021.

Happy Reading!

Liss