Daindreth's Assassin (EBOOK)

I've been curious about this series since coming across the author's youtube channel and after reading the preview chapter, was immediately hooked and bought the first book. The politics and worldbuilding were an absolute stand out, especially how Amira deals with the noble powerplays in the capital. Additionally, the supporting characters feel so alive and help further colour the world. I can see why Thadred is such a fan fave and now has his own spin off.

I absolutely enjoyed my time reading this but I found the core romance kind of lacking which is why I'm waiting a bit before continuing with the series.

As an avid fan of anime/manga/lightnovels and a frequent reader on AO3, I wouldn't describe Amira/Daindreth as slow burn enemies to lovers. Maybe it might fit the bill for romantasy novel standards but there was a lack of animosity between Daindreth and Amira after they arrive at the capital and I didn't feel a two way mutual tension between the leads that I've come to expect from enemies to lovers. While Amira is apprehensive due to not knowing how Daindreth's curse works, Daindreth is completely enamoured with her once the initial assassination attempt is cleared up which, while detracting from what their romance was tagged as, I found sweet for their development.

While the ending has decent threads to lead into the next book, the romance (as one of the core parts of the series) lacks a certain oomph to it to make me want to go through the entire series immediately. As a stand alone story and an introduction to the author's work - it's a great read.

This author creates interesting characters and a vivid, believable world for them to inhabit. I especially like the clever political intrigue, which is never too heavy-handed or abstruse. As I understand it, the book sets its sights on being a rollicking, gripping adventure and succeeds magnificently!

Loved this story. Looking forward to continuing the story

this book was fantastic. a really good book for first time readers in the fantasy genre. no spicy scenes and a good slowburn.

Finally a book with a female character that isn't wanting just romantic love! I love how she has this curse that's holding over her head and how slowly dain gets through her shield. Would recommend for anyone who wants a change of pace. Would absolutely buy the next book