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sweetlysarcasticbibliophile's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
Arthurian Legend meets modern fae romantasy... for a nerd like me what is better than that?
Draven 100% grew on me this book, I had some mixed feelings about him in book, wanting him to be more fleshed out as I did not feel very connected to him as a character and Court of Claws really fixed that for me.
A lot of the pacing issues I felt in Queen of Roses I did not feel in Court of Claws. Court of Claws was the perfect pace for me mixing intrigue and mystery from the first book with trials (a fav fantasy trope of mine) and more spice than the first book as the relationship between Draven and Morgan really blossoms.
Downloading Book 3 now....
Draven 100% grew on me this book, I had some mixed feelings about him in book, wanting him to be more fleshed out as I did not feel very connected to him as a character and Court of Claws really fixed that for me.
A lot of the pacing issues I felt in Queen of Roses I did not feel in Court of Claws. Court of Claws was the perfect pace for me mixing intrigue and mystery from the first book with trials (a fav fantasy trope of mine) and more spice than the first book as the relationship between Draven and Morgan really blossoms.
Downloading Book 3 now....
Content Warnings
Minor: Animal death, Child death, Death, Homophobia, Sexual content, and Violence
irenemayblack's review against another edition
challenging
dark
funny
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
I absolutely adored every second of this book. The whole thing felt like a crossover of the challenges under the mountain in ACOTAR, and the hilarious banter of Fourth wing all mixed in with hints of Arthurian legend. In other words, a splendid fantasy novel and enthralling sequel.
To make things better— it was a bit spicier than Queen of Roses. I'm hoping to see this continue with the other books in the series.
The rising romance and banter between Morgan and Kairos was well written in my opinion for the rest of the plot going on around it. I loved getting to see their characters get more attraction to each other and to see character development grow stronger in them both as the book went on.
I received this book through Netgalley and I absolutely can't wait to see where the rest of this series goes!
⭐️ 4
🌶 2/5
To make things better— it was a bit spicier than Queen of Roses. I'm hoping to see this continue with the other books in the series.
The rising romance and banter between Morgan and Kairos was well written in my opinion for the rest of the plot going on around it. I loved getting to see their characters get more attraction to each other and to see character development grow stronger in them both as the book went on.
I received this book through Netgalley and I absolutely can't wait to see where the rest of this series goes!
⭐️ 4
🌶 2/5
Content Warnings
Graphic: Torture and Murder
Moderate: Sexual content, Violence, and War
Minor: Cursing, Death, Infertility, Suicide, Blood, Kidnapping, Grief, and Injury/Injury detail
jrice17's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Thank you to NetGalley and Starwater Press for the advanced reader's copy of this book!
The second book in the Blood of a Fae series, A Court of Claws, was a phenomenal sequel to the first book, Queen of Roses. We really got to learn so much more about not only the Fae, but the Gods, and the world of Eskira.
Our two main characters, Morgan and Draven, showed some improvement from book 1 to book 2. I wish Morgan was a little less naive and basic, but hope the next book she can grow into the badass female MC I know she can be. Draven and his court were by far my favorite part of this sequel. Every new character we are introduced to has such a great and distinct personality. Draven has the classic dark, brooding, Fae male love interest vibe, but was still sassy and secretive enough to be a great character. I can't wait to engage with Draven and his court more in the next book.
The Arthurian lore is not always at the forefront of this book, but I appreciate that. It gives the author the freedom to create a new unique world that most readers still have an underlying knowledge of the structure of the world and characters. But the additions of the Valtain and Siabra Fae as well as the Pantheon of Gods into the Arthurian world is a refreshing take. The author is an amazing world builder and I can't wait to learn more!
As other reviewers have mentioned, the book does end on a rather large cliffhanger, so be prepared to immediately pick up the next book.
The second book in the Blood of a Fae series, A Court of Claws, was a phenomenal sequel to the first book, Queen of Roses. We really got to learn so much more about not only the Fae, but the Gods, and the world of Eskira.
Our two main characters, Morgan and Draven, showed some improvement from book 1 to book 2. I wish Morgan was a little less naive and basic, but hope the next book she can grow into the badass female MC I know she can be. Draven and his court were by far my favorite part of this sequel. Every new character we are introduced to has such a great and distinct personality. Draven has the classic dark, brooding, Fae male love interest vibe, but was still sassy and secretive enough to be a great character. I can't wait to engage with Draven and his court more in the next book.
The Arthurian lore is not always at the forefront of this book, but I appreciate that. It gives the author the freedom to create a new unique world that most readers still have an underlying knowledge of the structure of the world and characters. But the additions of the Valtain and Siabra Fae as well as the Pantheon of Gods into the Arthurian world is a refreshing take. The author is an amazing world builder and I can't wait to learn more!
As other reviewers have mentioned, the book does end on a rather large cliffhanger, so be prepared to immediately pick up the next book.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Animal cruelty, Child death, Confinement, Death, Emotional abuse, Sexual content, Violence, Cannibalism, Murder, Gaslighting, and War
sassypantsreading's review
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Court of Claws is so good, but oh, how I wish it was written as dual-POV. I NEED to know what Draven is thinking! There are so many little twists in this book that I want his thoughts on. His point of view would just add more fullness to the story. I loved (most of) the new characters that were introduced in this book. Morgan drove me a bit crazy. She was very stubborn and dead set on believing the very worst of Draven at every turn. I didn’t enjoy the way the book ended because I can’t possibly fathom what comes next in the story. Thank goodness I have the next two books ready to go!
I received a copy of Court of Claws for free from NetGalley. Thank you to Briar Boleyn and NetGalley for this copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received a copy of Court of Claws for free from NetGalley. Thank you to Briar Boleyn and NetGalley for this copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Gore, Violence, Fire/Fire injury, and Injury/Injury detail
Moderate: Child death, Sexual content, and War
Minor: Animal cruelty, Animal death, Child abuse, Confinement, Cursing, Homophobia, Incest, Infertility, Grief, and Cannibalism
manaledi's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.75
I give her credit in that this book was not all that much like the first even if both are classics of the romantasy genre. A much more interesting cast of secondary characters. The villains are so very evil, almost like caricatures.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child death, Confinement, Cursing, Death, Gore, Infertility, Infidelity, Sexual content, Violence, Blood, Kidnapping, Grief, Fire/Fire injury, War, and Injury/Injury detail
Moderate: Animal cruelty, Animal death, Bullying, Confinement, Homophobia, Incest, Sexism, and Kidnapping
jessdaniellereads's review
adventurous
dark
emotional
mysterious
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Animal cruelty, Body horror, Bullying, Child abuse, Child death, Confinement, Death, Gore, Miscarriage, Misogyny, Physical abuse, Sexism, Sexual content, Torture, Violence, Forced institutionalization, Blood, Kidnapping, Cannibalism, Death of parent, Murder, Pregnancy, Fire/Fire injury, Abandonment, War, and Injury/Injury detail
Moderate: Homophobia, Grief, and Lesbophobia
roxxie's review against another edition
dark
emotional
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
Court of Claws ♦ Briar Boleyn | Review
The captivating voyage into the mysterious realm of fae with a hint of the Arthurian legend is continued in Court of Claws, the second installment in Briar Boleyn’s Blood of a Fae series. The story weaves a tapestry of intrigue, sensuality, and unexpected turns. There are parts of character development that need to more exploration, while the story deftly digs deeper into the fae’s lore, providing a rich and engaging experience.
The captivating voyage into the mysterious realm of fae with a hint of the Arthurian legend is continued in Court of Claws, the second installment in Briar Boleyn’s Blood of a Fae series. The story weaves a tapestry of intrigue, sensuality, and unexpected turns. There are parts of character development that need to more exploration, while the story deftly digs deeper into the fae’s lore, providing a rich and engaging experience.
Court of Claws ♦ Briar Boleyn
Opinion
The way the female protagonist Morgan Pendragon is portrayed in Court of Claws is one of its most notable features. She may be charming, but it’s difficult to ignore her enduring innocence and sluggish progress toward developing common sense. It is impossible not to wish for Morgan to grow up from her initial innocence throughout the story. Although her character does experience some improvement, it happens at a slow pace that occasionally makes the reader impatient. However, this flaw is not without its silver lining, as it sets the stage for a promising arc in future installments.
In contrast, Kairos Draven, the male lead, matures admirably in Court of Claws. Boleyn expertly sculpts his character, revealing layers of intricacy and depth that lend richness to the story. Draven’s emotional and mental growth is a feature of the novel, demonstrating the author’s skill at creating various characters. The sole complaint is the two characters‘ lack of communication. More open interaction between Morgan and Draven could have helped the storyline by reducing some of the unneeded drama that emerges throughout the novel.
The surprising cliffhanger that finishes Court of Claws is one of the novel’s most riveting parts. Boleyn keeps readers on the edge of their seats, waiting for the next chapter in her extraordinary story. The epilogue, in particular, defies expectations, providing a dimension of suspense that wants readers to grab the next volume immediately.
Conclusion
Finally, Court of Claws drives the Blood of a Fae series ahead by constructing a compelling narrative that delves into the complexities of the fae realm. While Morgan’s delayed progress tries the reader’s patience, Draven’s growth and the unexpected narrative twists make this installment worth reading. Fans of the series will definitely look forward to the next installment in order to solve the secrets hinted at in the cliffhanger finish.
This review was first published at The Art of Reading.
This review was first published at The Art of Reading.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content and Violence
Moderate: Child death, Death, Incest, Infertility, Miscarriage, Violence, and Fire/Fire injury
anapthine's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.75
Thank you NetGalley and Starwater Press for giving me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Often with sequels or the second book of a series, it is never as good as the original. However, this second instalment of the Blood of a Fae series is so much better. I cannot put into words how addicted I was to the plot. The twists and turns were often unpredictable, and I loved the new characters with their own backstories. This was an incredibly well written addition to Queen of Roses.
We once again follow Morgan, after the events of the betrayal and deaths of Queen of Roses, where she deals with her grief and still is determined to save her little brother who is trapped under King Arthur’s reign and command. Surrounded by lies and the still a stranger Draven, she is forced to adjust in the court of Siabra, almost a lifetime away from her home.
Oh my word, the ending I was not expecting and made me frustrated that the Empress of Fae (#3) could not come any sooner - I am so excited to read it.
My favourite line from this book was: “Morally grey asshole.”
Content Warnings
Graphic: Bullying, Child death, Confinement, Death, Emotional abuse, Gore, Infertility, Sexual content, Violence, Blood, Grief, Murder, Fire/Fire injury, War, and Injury/Injury detail
Moderate: Animal cruelty, Animal death, Child abuse, Domestic abuse, Physical abuse, Cannibalism, Death of parent, and Alcohol
Minor: Homophobia
emilyrose_isreading's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
emotional
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Morgan Pendragon has now found herself on a new continent within the kingdom of Sorega, surrounded by a new kind of Fae she never realised existed, the Siabra. She is learning many things about this new court, including their prince Draven who had been in disguise while traveling with her. Morgan is desperate to get back to her own court, which her elder brother has turned violent, but in Sorega an internal fight has begun and Draven refuses to free her just yet.
This sequel to Queen of Roses is a beautiful romantasy retelling of Camelot. I found myself submerged in the story, and I love Briar Boleyn's writing. With Morgan in a new environment, I love that we learn things about Sorega and the Siabra at the same time as her. There are some elements of this sequel I didn't enjoy as much as the first book, including how manipulate the love interest is however that's my personal preference as the world and character building is once again amazing. I definitely recommend this series to all my romantasy girlies.
Once again there are graphic themes, so please check content/trigger warnings.
Thank you so much to Briar Boleyn, Netgalley and Starwater Press for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This sequel to Queen of Roses is a beautiful romantasy retelling of Camelot. I found myself submerged in the story, and I love Briar Boleyn's writing. With Morgan in a new environment, I love that we learn things about Sorega and the Siabra at the same time as her. There are some elements of this sequel I didn't enjoy as much as the first book, including how manipulate the love interest is however that's my personal preference as the world and character building is once again amazing. I definitely recommend this series to all my romantasy girlies.
Once again there are graphic themes, so please check content/trigger warnings.
Thank you so much to Briar Boleyn, Netgalley and Starwater Press for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Sexual content, Violence, Blood, Murder, Fire/Fire injury, and Injury/Injury detail
Moderate: Animal death, Genocide, Gore, Incest, Infertility, Miscarriage, Cannibalism, and War
Minor: Animal cruelty, Child death, and Death of parent
booksalacarte's review against another edition
adventurous
hopeful
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
Court of Claws- 3.5⭐️ 3🌶️
Betrayal
Fake relationship
Morally grey MMC
He Falls First
One bed
Surprise twist
Kingdom politics
Found family
Trials
War
Animal familiars
Miscommunication
🏳️🌈 Side Character Rep
This story begins right where the first left off. I really like how this reimagined Camelot is pulling more and more from the original. Links are being revealed and coming together. All of the little pieces of the original story finding their way into this one, just with a spin. It’s refreshing and highlights taking a misogynistic tale and restructuring it to not be so archaic.
The writing is a little stilted, it felt like the word “F*ck” was added in excessively (mostly by one character) to make things edgier… sometimes it was in juxtaposition to the story creating a jarring harshness of language in situations where you would expect more finesse. And I’m not talking about the bedroom scenes… those were good!
Anyway, it wasn’t off putting enough that I didn’t enjoy the book. Far more than the first, mainly because of the non-stop action and fast pace plot.
Morgan is an infuriating character. It’s almost like she is completely ignorant of court politics or intrigue. (Reminder, she was raised as a princess!) She only sees things in black and white. She is full of flaws; immature, annoyingly defiant for terrible reasons, stubborn, wishy-washy as hell, and seemingly purposefully and idiotically obtuse. Her character arc isn’t evident yet… hopefully she will grow in the next book… and says “f*ck” in more appropriate instances, instead of throwing it around because her character needs to be more daring and grown up… She just sounds like a middle schooler on a playground trying to show how badass she is by saying the worst curse word she can think of.
Draven seems to be an enigma with his loyalty and willingness to do what has to be done. Talk about the definition of “Morally Grey”. A softie with a hard exterior. Exactly what a morally grey man should be. He has killed, been exiled, caught for Morgan and himself, sacrificed himself and his kingdom. I think he is well written… as well written as any other fantasy romance MMC. They all have flaws.
The exmoors are so cool! I’m a sucker for animal familiars. If something happens to them I’ll riot.
The side characters are endearing. I’m undecided if I can get past Morgan’s poor character arc enough to read on… if I do, it’s only for Draven and the exmoors.
Thank you NetGalley and Starwater Press for the advanced reader copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Betrayal
Fake relationship
Morally grey MMC
He Falls First
One bed
Surprise twist
Kingdom politics
Found family
Trials
War
Animal familiars
Miscommunication
🏳️🌈 Side Character Rep
This story begins right where the first left off. I really like how this reimagined Camelot is pulling more and more from the original. Links are being revealed and coming together. All of the little pieces of the original story finding their way into this one, just with a spin. It’s refreshing and highlights taking a misogynistic tale and restructuring it to not be so archaic.
The writing is a little stilted, it felt like the word “F*ck” was added in excessively (mostly by one character) to make things edgier… sometimes it was in juxtaposition to the story creating a jarring harshness of language in situations where you would expect more finesse. And I’m not talking about the bedroom scenes… those were good!
Anyway, it wasn’t off putting enough that I didn’t enjoy the book. Far more than the first, mainly because of the non-stop action and fast pace plot.
Morgan is an infuriating character. It’s almost like she is completely ignorant of court politics or intrigue. (Reminder, she was raised as a princess!) She only sees things in black and white. She is full of flaws; immature, annoyingly defiant for terrible reasons, stubborn, wishy-washy as hell, and seemingly purposefully and idiotically obtuse. Her character arc isn’t evident yet… hopefully she will grow in the next book… and says “f*ck” in more appropriate instances, instead of throwing it around because her character needs to be more daring and grown up… She just sounds like a middle schooler on a playground trying to show how badass she is by saying the worst curse word she can think of.
Draven seems to be an enigma with his loyalty and willingness to do what has to be done. Talk about the definition of “Morally Grey”. A softie with a hard exterior. Exactly what a morally grey man should be. He has killed, been exiled, caught for Morgan and himself, sacrificed himself and his kingdom. I think he is well written… as well written as any other fantasy romance MMC. They all have flaws.
The exmoors are so cool! I’m a sucker for animal familiars. If something happens to them I’ll riot.
The side characters are endearing. I’m undecided if I can get past Morgan’s poor character arc enough to read on… if I do, it’s only for Draven and the exmoors.
Thank you NetGalley and Starwater Press for the advanced reader copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Animal cruelty, Bullying, Child abuse, Child death, Confinement, Cursing, Death, Emotional abuse, Gore, Homophobia, Misogyny, Sexual content, Toxic relationship, Violence, Blood, Vomit, Kidnapping, Grief, Cannibalism, Murder, Fire/Fire injury, Gaslighting, Alcohol, War, Injury/Injury detail, and Classism