Evie Marceau | 2023 | 416 Pages | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Fae, Magic, Fiction, Enemies to Lovers
SUMMARY
We still worship the sleeping fae, though their magic only remains within a few of us.
Locked away for twelve years, Sabine Darrow’s only friends are animals she communicates with using magic. Now, sold as a bride to a villainous high lord, her greatest fear is trading one prison for another. But a potential escape lies in the form of her gruff yet achingly handsome guard, whose loyalty she is determined to break.
A huntsman with heightened senses, Basten “Wolf” Bowborn has more important things to do than transport his master’s new bride. With ancient creatures reawakening along the kingdom's border wall, he is torn between his duty and his desire to investigate—until a forbidden attraction becomes an unyielding obsession.
Welcome to Astagnon—a kingdom of cruel games and corrupted courts, where the only thing more dangerous than the secrets slumbering underground is falling for the one person you can’t have.
Drawing inspiration from Snow White and the Lady Godiva legend, WHITE HORSE BLACK NIGHTS is a dark enemies-to-lovers fantasy romance that will take you on a journey you’ll never forget.
MY THOUGHTS
Evie Marceau weaves a spellbinding tale in "White Horse Black Nights," drawing you into a world where magic and mystery reign supreme. From the countryside landscapes to the opulent halls of the palace, the setting is vividly brought to life, immersing you in the sights, sounds, and smells of Astagnon.
One of the novel's greatest strengths is its character development. Sabine is a compelling protagonist, her journey of self-discovery unfolding with each page. Her interactions with Wolf are fraught with tension and longing, adding depth to their forbidden romance. While their relationship developed at a steady pace, there were moments when I wished for more exploration of their emotional depth.
The world-building in "White Horse Black Nights" is rich and immersive, crafting a complex tapestry of mythology and lore. The magic system, centered around the concept of "godkissed," adds an intriguing layer to the story, offering glimpses into a world where power and destiny collide.
While the plot maintains a good pace and balance between action and romance, there were moments where I felt it lacked the urgency and tension needed to propel the story forward. Additionally, some aspects of the romance felt rushed, and I wished for more development in the book's latter half.
Overall, "White Horse Black Nights" is a captivating read that offers a tantalizing glimpse into a world of magic and intrigue. While it may not reach the heights of greatness, it is undoubtedly an enjoyable journey for fantasy romance fans. I give it a solid four-star rating, and I eagerly await the next installment in the series.
CHARACTER OVERVIEW
Sabine Darrow emerges as the resilient and determined protagonist whose journey drives the heart of the narrative. Enduring twelve years of isolation, Sabine finds solace in her unique ability to communicate with animals through magic, forming deep and meaningful bonds with her animal companions. Sold as a bride to a villainous high lord, Sabine grapples with the fear of exchanging one form of captivity for another, but her spirit remains unbroken. Throughout her trials, Sabine's strength of character shines through as she confronts adversity with courage and resilience. Determined to break free from her fate, she sets her sights on swaying the loyalty of her guard, Basten "Wolf" Bowborn, in a bid for freedom. As the story unfolds, Sabine's journey becomes a testament to the power of determination, friendship, and the enduring human spirit in the face of daunting challenges.
Basten "Wolf" Bowborn is depicted as a complex and enigmatic character who serves as the guard to Sabine Darrow, the protagonist. Basten, known for his gruff exterior and unwavering loyalty, is a huntsman with heightened senses, making him a formidable protector in the dangerous world of Astagnon. Tasked with transporting Sabine to her new husband, Basten is torn between his duty and his growing attraction to her. Basten's internal conflict deepens as their journey unfolds, revealing layers of vulnerability beneath his stoic facade. His struggle to reconcile his obligations with his desires adds depth to his character, making him a compelling figure in the story. Ultimately, Basten's loyalty and inner turmoil play pivotal roles in shaping the course of events.
SPOILERS AHEAD ----------
Adan is a villainous figure who deceives Sabine into believing they are lovers planning to escape together. In reality, he serves the king across the wall, ensuring Sabine remains captive. His betrayal leaves Sabine trapped and manipulated, shaping the course of events and influencing the lives of those around her. Adan's cunning schemes and deceitful nature make him a formidable antagonist in the treacherous world of Astagnon.
Rian is a cunning and manipulative king who sees Sabine as a strategic asset rather than a bride for love. Having tricked her father into debt and purchased her, Rian recognizes the power of Sabine's "godkissed" gift to communicate with animals. He views her as a means to gain an advantage over the king across the wall, using her abilities to strengthen his political position. Rian's deceptive actions add tension and complexity to the story, highlighting the harsh realities of power dynamics in Astagnon's court.
WHERE TO READ / BUY
Paperback: $17.09
Kindle: $5.99
Kindle Unlimited: $0.00
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