The Foxglove King is the first book in The Nightshade Crown series by Hannah F. Whitten. It is a romantic fantasy novel that follows Lore, a young woman who has the secret power to raise the dead using Mortem, a rare and illegal magic in the city of Dellaire. Lore works as a poison runner, delivering deadly substances to various clients, until one day she is captured by the Presque Mort, a group of warrior-monks who serve the Sainted King. The King offers her a deal: use her magic to investigate a mysterious plague that is killing villages across the country, or face execution. Lore agrees, but soon finds herself entangled in the intrigues and scandals of the royal court, where she meets Gabriel, a loyal duke-turned-monk, and Bastian, the rebellious heir to the throne. Lore must navigate a dangerous and decadent world, while also confronting her past and the secrets of Mortem.
The Foxglove King is a captivating and immersive read that blends romance, mystery, and magic. The author creates a rich and vivid world, with complex and diverse characters, and a plot that keeps the reader engaged and guessing. The novel explores themes such as identity, loyalty, faith, and power, as well as the moral dilemmas of using death magic. The romance between Lore and Gabriel is sweet and slow-burning, while the dynamic between Lore and Bastian is tense and intriguing. The novel also has some dark and violent scenes, as well as some explicit sexual content, so it may not be suitable for younger readers.
Conclusion
Overall, The Foxglove King is an excellent start to a promising new fantasy series that will appeal to fans of Sarah J. Maas, Leigh Bardugo, and Holly Black.
