Title: Betrayals (A Time of Reckoning #1)
Author: Michelle Simpson
Genre: Historical, Fantasy
Publisher: Self-published
Source: Author
Format: Paperback
Release Date: June 4, 2022
Rating: ★★★★
Goodreads Synopsis:
It is 8th century Ireland and the land is littered with ambitious chieftains and petty kings lobbying for power and status in a time where no one leader has been duly recognized. Devin is the eldest daughter of the petty king, Attus, who dominates the vast north, called Ulaid. Favored by her influential father and having no interest in the crooked path of politics, Devin is allowed to pursue her own course. She chooses the mysterious direction of the healing arts, learning the ancient ways of her Celtic ancestors alongside the druid Oran, a trusted member of their clan and her father’s advisor. In a sudden act of vengeance by their greatest rival, Bram, tragedy befalls their great house and leaves the family shattered and grieving. Propelled onto a great seat, she must learn to honor her ancient ways in a land dominated by Christianity and men. Jealousy mounts from her sister, Una, a powerful yet petty woman who secretly plots against her. With odds stacking against Devin, she finds partnership and solace with Tristan, a soldier in her father’s army, and the man who becomes her lover. Their love is all-consuming, and distracting, as she battles enemies near and far that covet her great seat. Devin must overcome betrayals, wars and intrigue as she discovers her true strength as a woman and a warrior in a time where no one can be trusted.
Review:
Ireland, 8th century: Devin is the daughter of King Attus, one of many Kings in Ireland. Rather than playing with politics, Devin prefers to study the healing arts with the druid Oran. She’s also close with Tristan, one of her father’s most trusted soldiers who grew up alongside Devin and her siblings. After a sudden attack on her home ends in tragedy, Devin is thrust into the leadership role of her land, which she wasn’t prepared for. Devin must make some tough decisions for the good of her people, which may mean betraying her heart.
This was such a great fantasy story. It reminded me of Game of Thrones. There were royal politics as well as a steamy romance, with lots of danger in between. Devin and Tristan had friends to lovers romance, which made me cheer for them right from the beginning of the story.
Betrayals is the first book in A Time of Reckoning trilogy, which is all available now!
Thank you Michelle Simpson and Bookinfluencers.com for providing a copy of this book for a paid campaign.
Content warnings: death, death of parents, blood
Have you read Betrayals? What did you think of it?