Book Details
Title: Kingdom of the Wicked
Author: Kerri Maniscalco
Genre: Dark Fantasy Romance
Published Date: 2020
Summary
Emilia and her twin sister, Vittoria, are witches who have spent their entire lives hiding in plain sight. But everything changes when Vittoria is brutally murdered. Consumed by grief and a thirst for vengeance, Emilia is determined to uncover her sister’s killer—no matter the cost. Desperate, she turns to forbidden magic and unintentionally summons Wrath, one of the seven princes of Hell she had believed to be nothing more than a myth. Bound to him through her spell, Emilia must navigate their uneasy alliance as she delves deeper into a dark and dangerous world.
Plot
From the very beginning, the story captivates readers by plunging them into a rich and immersive world. The pacing complements this initial hook, moving at a steady pace that mirrors Emilia’s journey through grief and her quest for vengeance. Every event unfolds in a way that feels organic and well-timed, keeping the momentum alive throughout. The worldbuilding is exceptional, with the inclusion of excerpts from Emilia’s family grimoire adding depth to the magic system without overwhelming the reader. The story’s Italian setting, combined with its historical feel, offers a refreshing level of originality for the fantasy romance genre. Additionally, the low-key romance subplot between Emilia and Wrath enhances the narrative without overshadowing the primary plot, making their interactions feel both natural and engaging.
Characters
The characters in this novel are multifaceted and compelling, keeping readers on their toes. Emilia's rage and grief drive her to make bold, unpredictable decisions, while Wrath remains enigmatic, leaving readers guessing about his true intentions. Emilia's mourning and desire for vengeance are deeply relatable, especially for those who have experienced loss. The romance, though a slow burn, feels believable and emotionally engaging, laying the groundwork for a promising development in future books. The antagonists are nuanced, particularly the final one, who manages to be both surprising and well-developed. Side characters, like Emilia’s grandmother, enrich the story by seamlessly weaving lore and context into the narrative. Both Emilia and Wrath experience meaningful character growth—Emilia learns to cope with her twin sister’s death, while Wrath begins to open up emotionally, hinting at a future deeper connection with Emilia.
Writing Style & Worldbuilding
The author’s choice to write from Emilia’s perspective is a brilliant decision for a story rooted in mystery. This approach allows readers to unravel the clues alongside Emilia, increasing the tension and suspense. The prose strikes the perfect tone for a fantasy romance mystery, with dialogue that feels authentic and purposeful. The occasional inclusion of Italian phrases adds authenticity to the setting, grounding the story in its Italian roots. The descriptions of the magic system and the characters are vivid and memorable, though the physical settings could have been painted with greater clarity. Overall, the writing is engaging, and every element serves to propel the story forward, creating an immersive reading experience.
Overall Impression
This novel is an exceptional blend of mystery, fantasy, and slow-burn romance. The themes of grief and vengeance are explored with depth and nuance, resonating strongly with readers who have experienced loss. The emotional impact of the story is undeniable, from moments of frustration with Emilia’s decisions to the shocking revelation of the antagonist. The romance, though understated, is meaningful and promises much more in the series to come. With its unique setting, well-developed characters, and an engaging plot, this book sets itself apart in the fantasy romance genre, leaving readers eager for the next installment.
Rating
Plot Development: 5
World-building: 4
Character Development: 4
Romance: 4
Writing Style: 4
Pacing: 5
Emotional Impact: 3
Ending/Satisfaction: 4
I would give this a solid 4 stars - Very good; worth reading with some minor flaws.
Favorite Quote:
"Why do villains always wear black?"
"Better to hide the blood with, witch."
Comments