THE BLACKSMITH QUEEN (The Scarred Earth Saga Book 1) by G.A. Aiken

Publication Date: August 27, 2019

Genre: Paranormal Fantasy Romance

When a prophesy brings war to the Land of the Black Hills, Keeley Smythe must join forces with a clan of mountain warriors who are really centaurs in a thrilling new fantasy romance series from New York Times bestselling author G.A. Aiken.

The Old King Is Dead

With the demise of the Old King, there’s a prophesy that a queen will ascend to the throne of the Black Hills. Bad news for the king’s sons, who are prepared to defend their birthright against all comers. But for blacksmith Keeley Smythe, war is great for business. Until it looks like the chosen queen will be Beatrix, her younger sister. Now it’s all Keeley can do to protect her family from the enraged royals.

Luckily, Keeley doesn’t have to fight alone. Because thundering to her aid comes a clan of kilt-wearing mountain warriors called the Amichai. Not the most socially adept group, but soldiers have never bothered Keeley, and rough, gruff Caid, actually seems to respect her. A good thing because the fierce warrior will be by her side for a much longer ride than any prophesy ever envisioned …

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What fun! Ms. Aiken has managed to create another world for us to dive into. She is a master at describing where and what, so that you are quickly immersed and feel a part of it all. Centaurs? Sure…Demon Wolves? Of course…they’re all real – right? I loved it all. Keeley and her family are a rowdy bunch that poor Caid and his fellow Centaurs can only gird their loins for what might happen next. I did wonder if it was a fantasy with romantic elements, but Keeley and Caid’s romance grew steadily, culminating in a steamy love-scene. So yes, this book had it all. Magical creatures, horrible antagonists, crazy family and friends, humor, romance and of course – a happily ever after. The kind of story that keeps you in its grasp long after the book is closed. I cannot wait for the second installment.

*Review copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

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Kindle | Amazon Paperback

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Originally from Long Island, New York Times bestselling author G.A. Aiken has resigned herself to West Coast living, which involves healthy food, mostly sunny days, and lots of guys not wearing shirts when they really should be. Writing as Shelly Laurenston, she is also the creator of the wickedly funny Pride series for Brava. For more info about G.A. Aiken’s dangerously and arrogantly sexy dragons, go to http://www.gaaiken.com.

 Website | GoodReads | Shelly Laureson’s Website

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