“The Dawn of the Cursed Queen” is another captivating installment from Amber V. Nicole. This third book in her series has once again managed to completely captivate me. Just when you think an author is running out of steam, Amber Nicole surprises her readers every time.
Book Review: “The Dawn of the Cursed Queen” by Amber V. Nicole
- Author: Amber V. Nicole
- Series: Gods and Monsters Book #3
- Publisher: Headline
- Edition: 2024
- Pages: 581
- Available in digital format (ePub, PDF, etc.)
What you can expect
✔️ Multi-perspective storytelling
✔️ Dynamics from enemies to lovers
✔️ Secrets and betrayal
✔️ Fast-paced plot and complex fantasy world building
Summary
Stealing from death itself — such madness has never been attempted. Dianna has no idea what she has sacrificed to save Samkiel. He is no longer the same, and neither is she, but one thing remains the same: the love they share. Dianna proves to the world once again that there is no line she won’t cross to protect the ones she loves.
The world is in the hands of her enemies. Dianna and Samkiel are on the run, and the secret of the “’World Devourer’s” survival must remain hidden, for the forces of evil are determined to destroy him. Samkiel’s power is scattered across the sky and he is unprepared to fight the monsters enslaving her family.
The characters
Dianna is one of my absolute favorite characters. Strong, ruthless, loyal and deeply flawed – she is a complex and compelling protagonist. Amber Nicole once again pushes Dianna to her limits as we see her finally find the love she deserves while grappling with the monster inside her.
Samkiel is my weak point. He’s probably the only “good guy” on my list of literary crushes. With his golden heart, unyielding loyalty, honesty, and chivalry, he sets the standard. Samkiel is equally obsessed with protecting Dianna and seeing her happy, always putting her first. Together they are an unstoppable force and complement each other perfectly.
Multi-perspective depth
The addition of new perspectives in The Dawn of the Cursed Queen adds depth and complexity to the story. Each new character acts like a piece of a puzzle that gradually comes together to form a bigger picture. What is particularly impressive is how Amber Nicole herself portrays the villain as a multi-dimensional character with his own fears and desires. He is no longer just “the bad guy”,” but his actions are based on a solid and well-founded foundation.
My thoughts
This book captivated me from the first page to the last. Amber Nicole has created memorable characters and a compelling plot that delves deep into the human condition. I felt like I was peering into the souls of Caden and Vincent. Amber Nicole masterfully explores the nuances of brotherhood, the pain of rejection, and the tragic consequences of impulsive, passionate choices.
The world of this book is rich with emotion and complexity, and the story becomes more compelling with each subsequent installment. As this is only book 3 of a planned 7 books, I have more questions than answers after the heartbreaking ending and am eagerly counting down the months until the next release.
Rating
“The Dawn of the Cursed Queen” raises the bar in terms of passion compared to the earlier books. While the spark we expected at the beginning has now become a blazing fire, I felt that Samkiel’s excessive concern for Dianna became a little overwhelming. After all, Dianna is one of the most terrifying beings in this universe, and yet he insists on holding her hand through everything.
The book is action-packed and has a fast pace that makes the length of the book seem effortless. Amber Nicole skillfully balances dynamic action scenes with the development of her world and characters.
“The Throne of Broken Gods” book #2
Ask her, boy. Ask her what she begged the stars for and what lives now. Ask her what she ripped from the very heavens. And then ask her if she cares. The old blood runs through her veins.
Nismera and her legions rule the realms as Samkiel’s power fills the sky. With him gone, she strives to solidify her spot on the throne, no matter the cost.
Dianna struggles beneath the weight of half-truths, lies, and deceptions. After overcoming what she thought was her hardest battle, she soon learns she is at risk of losing everything.
Samkiel strives to heal, but he has more on his plate than ever before. The Hand is dismantled, the realms are in turmoil, and the one person he can trust keeps him at arm’s length. Can the two work out their differences, or will they both fall to the blade of the Goddess of War?
The one true king returns, but is it the king or queen who shall rule them all?
