The Reclaimed Kingdom
by Dana Claire
Book 1 in the Syphon Series
Rating: 4/5
Release date: February 14, 2021
Wow. This is literally the second book that I’ve read from Dana Claire and once again, she did not disappoint. This story is full of non-stop action and reminds me of a mashup between Robin Hood and Snow White.
After her father is sent off to war, Princess Andrua “Dru” of D’Land is forced to flee her home when her wicked stepmother starts using her to hurt her people. Dru must hide her identity and gender to join the Band of Brothers who are stealing from the rich to redistribute to the poor. Trained as a warrior since she was little, she has no problems ascending the ranks and becoming a feared leader – even after they discover she is a female. Hiding her past from her new friends is imperative but one fellow, Hawkins, can’t seem to keep asking her questions and wanting her to open up. He sees her differently ever since they found out she was not a lad, so she tries to keep her distance. She chooses to keep her syphon powers hidden but can’t stop herself from healing a wrongfully injured soldier, who just so happens to be the personal guard of her former childhood best friend, Prince Edward “Dodge”. With her secrets exposed, Dru must rise up before the evil queen destroys what’s left of her kingdom. She needs the help of Hawkins, Dodge and the rest of her Band of Brothers to reclaim her birthright and discover the truth behind her mother’s tragic death.
So I do not care for love triangles (frustrated sigh) but I do appreciate what the author is trying to portray especially in this magical fantasy world with interesting creatures. My frustration really only comes up near the end of the story, but since this is part of a series, this is just the beginning so I’ll have to reserve final judgment till the end. LOL. This story is full of fairly violent action (especially in the last act) and there is some talk of rape but no descriptive scenes. Just wanted to give a heads up if you have any triggers. Overall, I wish there was more about Dru – I am left feeling like there’s more to her but I haven’t been able to get to know her yet. It might be because she doesn’t realize who she fully is yet – this is only the first book in the series though so there’s definitely room for more development. You won’t regret picking up this book to read, and I cannot wait to read what comes next.
Highly recommend this fantasy adventure with romance and mystery.
Content: PG-13.
My thanks to the author for providing me with an ARC of the book. All opinions expressed here are entirely my own. No positive review was expected and no compensation received.
