Review of The Death-Made Prince (Runewitch Saga #1) by Lisette Marshall
When I first caught wind of The Death-Made Prince, I was nothing short of ecstatic. Having devoured Lisette Marshall’s Fea Isles series and admired her knack for weaving intricate worlds and vividly complex characters, I couldn’t help but dive into this new saga with a spark of excitement. I mean, who wouldn’t love a story that promises both magic and moral complexity? And let me tell you, this book has certainly set a solid foundation for what I hope will be an epic series.
At its heart, The Death-Made Prince explores themes of freedom, self-discovery, and the intricate dance of trust that often emerges in fraught relationships. Marshall adeptly introduces us to Thraga, a protagonist who struggles with her past—especially her toxic relationship that confined her spirit. One quote that stuck with me was, “As long as you’re happy to stay inside, a cage just feels like a home. It’s only when you want to step out that you start to see the bars for what they are.” Thraga’s journey of self-ownership is beautifully portrayed; watching her regain her voice and strength is a deeply rewarding experience. As she steps into her power, we are invited along, and it’s exhilarating.
Then there’s Durlain, our morally gray prince whose layers unfold like petals of a flower, revealing both his cunning and the burdens he carries. His relationship with Thraga is compelling, evolving from reluctant allies to sparring partners who challenge each other in the most delicious ways. I found myself captivated by their exchanges, especially when Durlain remarks, "Hell have mercy on me, Thraga – do you want the truth? Wanting you feels like I’m hurtling straight towards my second death, and I can’t even care anymore." Their chemistry is palpable and electric, making my heart race with each charged interaction.
The pacing of the novel leans towards setup rather than action-packed mayhem, which might frustrate some readers. However, I appreciated the groundwork laid for future complexity. The world-building and political landscape promise an intricate web of alliances and betrayals yet to come. I also loved that Marshall chose to represent Thraga’s OCD respectfully, weaving it into her character development rather than simply as a plot device. This nuance adds depth, making the characters even more relatable and real.
If I had one tiny gripe, it might be the cliffhanger at the end—it’s so good but leaves me counting the days until the next installment! And let’s be honest, it could definitely use a map of this world to help visualize the intricate places we visit.
In all, The Death-Made Prince is a delightful read for lovers of fantasy and character-driven stories alike. If you enjoy a mix of magic, slow-burn romance, and complex characters who evolve in mesmerizing ways, this book deserves a spot on your shelf. I came away not just entertained but moved, hopeful for the journeys ahead. Honestly, I can’t wait to see how Thraga and Durlain navigate their tumultuous future together—October 2026 cannot come soon enough!
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