The King’s Imposter (Raven Bringer Saga #2) by C.A. McHugh-a review

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About the book: Release Date August 30, 3016

She’s not what she seems.
He’s determined to uncover the truth.

After nearly being assassinated a few weeks ago, King Aerrin has reason to be on edge. The Raven Bringer has returned, and Aerrin knows he’s the fiend’s top target. So he’s naturally suspicious about the new student at the Academy of Arcane Magics. She’s too good, too advanced, and too polished to only be a young student learning her craft. Hellbent on discovering Seroney’s secret, Aerrin sets out to investigate her.

King Aerrin is perceptive–and right. She’s not who she claims to be. Pretending to be a student, the half-elf master mage, Seroney, has been placed at the Academy on a covert mission. The closer Aerrin comes to uncovering the truth about her, the more danger they are both in. But when the Raven Bringer retaliates against her, Seroney must decide what’s more important: duty or revenge.

Review:

The King’s Imposter begins with Seroney’s world being upended and sent on a mission to aid young King Aerrin, unbeknownst to him. Even as Seroney is unsure about just how to accomplish her mission, she is just as sure that she will because failure is not an option.

As Aerrin and his two best friends, Leandros and Nyssa, attend classes to try and master their craft, he is immediately suspicious of Seroney, who just happened to be placed as Nyssa’s new roommate. When things progress, Aerrin finds himself more in awe of her talent than suspicious of her intent, which he knows could get him killed. Knowing he has to be vigilant, he’s also aware that he needs all of the allies he can get.

When the Ravin Bringer starts to make his play, all involved must figure out a way to work together and draw him out. However, Seroney not only succeeds in thwarting one of his plays for power, she also succeeds in drawing his ire. And someone dear to her pays the ultimate price.

The King’s Imposter is another wonderfully written tale by Crista McHugh. The world she has built in this series is so intriguing that you are drawn in immediately. All of the characters are well written, which is a trait that McHugh has mastered. As I’ve said in reviewing previous stories of hers, there are no wasted words or characters thrown in just because…. Everyone plays a role that is important to the story. And, what a story it is. There is intrigue at every turn that leaves you wanting more. For me, any author who can write a story that you can SEE it in your head as you read, really SEE it, is a true treasure. Crista McHugh is that treasure. If you’re looking for a quick read full of intriguing characters, as well as one with unparalleled world-building, you can never go wrong with this author. Well done, Crista McHugh! Very, very well done!

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Vickie M