The Orchid Throne (Forgotten Empires, #1)

by Jeffe Kennedy

[stacey_is_sassy]

Revenge…by rock or by flower

I really enjoyed reading The Orchid Throne but I’m struggling to get my thoughts down to explain the highs and lows. I was angry that a lot of innocent people died at the hands of a tyrant. I was sad that children were left orphans and slaves because of that tyrant. I was confused that a Queen could appear so cold but feel so much. I was desperate to see good win over evil.

Here are a few Of my thoughts while reading this very interesting story...

One thing that always surprises me in my reads is when the heroine is comfortable getting naked around other women. I don’t know about you, but the only person I get naked willingly around is hubby. Sure, it’s a lot worse since I’ve had kids, but even in my heyday…back in the olden days, I wasn’t one to strut my stuff. So, when I come across characters who have maids that bathe and dress them, I’m shocked at their comfort and acceptance. I’m not sure how I would feel having someone touch me all over. Again, that privilege is for my hubby alone.

OMG!!! Conri, King of the Slaves, looks like Jason Momoa!! Well, in my head he looks like Mr Momoa. Oh boy, thank you, Jeffe Kennedy! Not sure if that’s who you wanted me to picture, but that is who I was fantasising…I mean picturing in my head. Again, THANK YOU!!

Conri and his fellow slaves were so interesting. I feel a little guilty BUT I would have loved to know more of what hell they suffered through in the mines. These guys and gals are tortured and scarred but I wanted a little more of their grittiness.

Con’s rock hammer and rock bag thingamajiggy are pretty cool weapons. I loved that his sword was just worn for show and he felt more comfortable and was more effective using his rocks.

I’m starting to realise that I don’t HAVE to have sexy times throughout the whole story. I know, I’m shocked myself that I even thought that let alone feel that way. It’s just that a few of my books lately have had such a great slow-burn and I’ve been thoroughly entertained and hardly missed the wham bam thank you, ma'am. I’m not saying I don’t want some action, it’s just that I don’t need it throughout the whole story.

I can’t imagine having to wear makeup EVERY DAY!! I don’t want to ever have to wear a corset either. Euthalia, Queen of Calanthe and holder of the orchid ring is the bride-to-be of the evil tyrant Anure. Lia is playing a political game to keep her people safe. She will don her mask and play the innocent to hide her intelligence, wit and craftiness. I loved that what you see is definitely not what you get.

Wow, this is the first story I’ve EVER (could be a slight exaggeration) enjoyed where the hero has little or no experience in the bedroom.

I can’t call that a cliffhanger because I don’t want to kill anyone. It was definitely more a *happy for now* kind of ending. I’m desperate for more but I have not been left frustrated. I’m actually pretty happy where things are at.

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The Orchid Throne captured my attention from the start. Yes, it did get a little bogged down with details but I kind of expect that in the first instalment of a fantasy series. By the end, I was completely enthralled. Euthalia and Conri were very interesting and I loved that I got to see below the surface with both characters by having dual POV’s. The additional characters enhanced the story and I hope to get to know them better as the series progresses. I think Ambrose was my favourite additional character and I really hope he’s there until the end.

If you’re looking for an interesting fantasy romance that admittedly takes a wee while to warm up to, then I highly recommend giving The Orchid Throne a try. I’m very interested in seeing what will happen next in the Forgotten Empires series.

Stacey is Sassy, received an advanced copy of this story. The copy provided is not the final copy and may be subject to edits and changes.