A Court This Cruel and Lovely

A Court This Cruel and Lovely by Stacia Stark is the enthralling first book in the highly addictive Kingdom of Lies series. This captivating fantasy novel explores themes of secret power, slow-burn romance, and perilously high stakes, set against a backdrop of a world teetering on the edge of chaos.

In this carefully crafted universe, the gods strip humans of their meagre magical abilities shortly after birth, offering divine protection from the brutal and unyielding fae in return. Those rare humans who manage to retain their power are labelled as the corrupt and are mercilessly burned to death.

The protagonist inadvertently reveals her forbidden power, compelling her to abandon her beloved village and the only life she has ever known. Forced into a life on the run, she strikes a desperate deal with a dark and enigmatic mercenary. Handsome and ruthless, this mercenary harbours secrets that could endanger everyone she holds dear, carrying with them the potential to unravel the fabric of the kingdom—and possibly the entire world.

As the story unfolds, the protagonist must navigate a treacherous landscape brimming with danger and deception. Her journey is fraught with complex alliances, shadowy plots, and a simmering romance that threatens to ignite amidst the turmoil. The richly developed characters and intricate world-building make A Court This Cruel and Lovely an unputdownable read, inviting readers into a darkly enchanting realm where every choice could mean the difference between survival and destruction.

Prepare to be swept away by Stacia Stark's masterful storytelling, as she weaves a tale that is as beautiful as it is brutal, as tender as it is relentless. This spellbinding series opener will leave you yearning for more.