Rise of a Dark Throne by Ligia N. Cushman

A Dark Fantasy, Enemies to Lovers with lots of Spice

Synopsis:

When Sole awakens from the darkness, a terrifying plague that killed her family, she is left with the one thing she never wanted, Magick. She soon discovers that this rare power, thought to be long lost, has the ability to save her world. The tyrant King of Sundom summons her to serve his own purpose, setting her on an incredibly perilous journey. Sole soon finds herself navigating a dark web of politics, alluring power, desire, and great evil.

Rivian Alacor had his life all planned out. As the high-born second prince of Sundom, he could never be heir to the throne. Instead, he would lead the Sundom Guards, and when his brother became King, he would be part of his high council. Rivian would secure alliances by being mated to Selah Grado, the fairest and fiercest woman in Sundom. But, when his cruel father becomes infected with the Darkness, Rivian is sent on a journey to retrieve the first mage in generations. Meeting Sole changed everything.

Will they be the future of Transea, or will they burn it all down?

Thoughts:

What a whirlwind! This was a unique story, with a immersive world. The world building was done in a semi-gradual way with only minor info dumping.  I love love love the world discriptions, the beautiful sea, the otherwordly surroundings...I want to live there.

Sole was tough, and she met difficulties with an impossible strength.  She was often unyeilding...and I was here for it. Except for when she wasn't and then I was confused. She had such a tough spine while on the ship, but then when she was in front of the king she seemed to cave a bit. She was purposefully slighted, and I thought she was going to kill them all...but then she didn't. 

The romance was also hit or miss for me. Other then being physically attracted to each other and having to share close quarteres (on a ship), I didn't see how they really connected other than them both being second children of their parents. I also would have liked to hear more about the differences in the cultures, and I'm hoping book two further develops both the romance and the setting.  Overall I enjoyed the book, and I'm looking forward to book two. 

Disclaimer: I received an advanced copy of this book free for review.  This however does not affect my opinions, as I do not leave a review for each book I receive. There are links to Amazon, clicking these links won't cost you anything but any purchase helps support this blog.  Thanks!