Publishers Weekly
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Mysterious magic and a tense political marriage animate Robinson’s captivating debut romantasy. Princess Vaasa Kozár inherits the same dark magic that led to her mother’s death. Before she can learn more about this gift/curse, her ruthless brother marries her off to a neighboring ruler, hoping both to secure the alliance and that Vaasa will die before coming into any real political power. Reid Cazden is unaware that his new wife did not consent to their match, and the strength of their union will help him in his campaign to become the next Headman, ruling over even more land. Vaasa has other ideas, however. On their wedding night, she holds Reid at knifepoint before fleeing to short-lived freedom. Reid catches up with her and offers her a deal: return and stay married for three years (enough time to solidify his political goals) and in exchange, he’ll help her tame her life-threatening magic. Vaasa agrees on the condition that their relationship remain strictly platonic—a rule that proves increasingly difficult to follow as they face down enemies and obstacles together. Robinson embraces the enemies-to-lovers trope, with the slow-burn romance between Reid and Vaasa taking center stage, enhanced by their zippy and effortless banter, and the nail-biting conclusion will leave readers eager for a sequel. Robinson is sure to win fans. Agent: Samantha Fabien, Root Literary. (Nov.)

Book list
From Booklist, Copyright © American Library Association. Used with permission.

Vaasa doesn’t want to be married to Reid, the Wolf of Mireh, which is why she tied him up after their wedding and fled into the night. But fate has other plans for Vaasa as she and Reid cross paths again and he offers her the thing she’s always wanted—the freedom to choose. If she’ll play the doting wife during his critical political campaign, he’ll give her more than freedom—he’ll give her the resources to wield the magic that’s been coursing through her veins since her mother’s death. As Vaasa learns what her magic and emotions are truly capable of, she fears that both might just swallow her whole. But a looming threat has introduced another fear to Vaasa—the fear of losing Reid. Robinson’s debut is a striking series starter that weaves violence and witchcraft into a compelling story of finding love, family, and most importantly, oneself. Readers will be clamoring for the next installment in the series, if only to spend more time with their new book boyfriend.

Library Journal
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DEBUT In a carefully orchestrated political move by her brother Dominik, Vaasa Kozár has just married Reid of Mireh. But on their wedding night, Vaasa deceives Reid and flees, driven by her quest to unravel the mystery behind a curse she's carried since discovering her mother's lifeless body. Reid eventually finds Vaasa and, rather than seeking revenge, presents her with an irresistible proposition—a chance to perfect her curse and reclaim her freedom. The catch? She must agree to spend three years with him, feigning a genuine marriage while he campaigns for greater power. However, Reid proves to be far from the monstrous figure he's rumored to be. As Vaasa grows closer to him, she begins to appreciate their evolving partnership. She also uncovers more about her past and its connection to Reid's realm, all while facing mounting threats from unexpected sources and a sinister creature, on the eve of Reid's pivotal election. VERDICT With intricate worldbuilding and a unique magic system, Robinson draws readers in and delivers a compelling debut that will captivate fans of Nicola Tyche's North Queen.—Ashli Wells