⚠️ SPOILER WARNING: This review is for the second book in a duology and contains spoilers for the first book. ⚠️

📕 Title: Heir of Twisted Lies
✏️ Author: LJ Andrews
📖 Genre: NA Romantasy
⭐ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
✅ Completed Duology
🏆 Bonus points for including a recap of the first book

“Lyra Bien never expected to leave the royal house at Stonegate in one piece after her rare melder magic was revealed. Once she discovered the truth behind the need for her magic and the brutality of her kingdom, Lyra vowed to put an end to the corruption of the crown. But is the enemy of her enemy her friend? Lyra must put her trust in the man who stole her heart . . . then deceived her.

Roark Ashwood rose through the ranks to become Sentry of Stonegate and personal guard to the prince, despite being born of the enemy clan, the Dravens. But in a single heartbeat he destroyed his ruthless reputation all to save Lyra. With his true identity unveiled, Roark revealed years of plotting and betrayal to everyone he loves.

As Roark’s two lives collide, he must fight to protect the woman he loves and outsmart those throughout the kingdoms who want his power for themselves. Lyra must wade through long-kept secrets, rising battles, and vicious court intrigue—all while keeping her feelings for Roark at bay.”

REVIEW

Thank you to Berkley Publishing Group | Ace for the digital copy!

I loved that a recap of the previous novel was included, especially since this sequel picks up right where the story left off. This continues to be a dual POV novel with chapters narrated by Lyra and Roark. LJ Andrew’s writing is engaging, with clear distinction between Lyra and Roark’s narrative voices, and her wonderful descriptions and scene setting make it easy to imagine the world and characters.

Set in Dravenmoor, this sequel introduces many new characters and reveals more about Roark’s past. There is plenty of political intrigue as Roark returns to Dravenmoor after so many years away, forced to defend his failure to kill the Jorvan prince and contend with old obligations. I especially loved Queen Elisabet, who has complex motivations and kept me guessing.

Among the Draven folk, Lyra’s life is on the line as many in the community wish to see her dead, disapproving of Roark’s connection to her. Lyra’s reluctance to trust Roark again after discovering his true identity, and his split soul, is a point of tension. I loved the relationships Lyra develops with the Draven clan members, beginning as a tentative alliance and developing into something more like family.

The pace of this story feels slower than the first book, heavier on politics and schemes than action, but the race to find the bones of the Wanderer before Fadey provided high stakes that kept me invested. The story also explores and expand on the magical aspects, especially the different types of craft and soul bonds. While I loved the first book more, this sequel wrapped up the story well.