The War of Two Queens

If you are reading this review, you'll probably have read some others and already know there is a lot of criticism about this book.

I am disappointed with the readers behaviour. Everyone is entitled to like or dislike the books. What is not right is to disrespect people who may like them, let alone the writer.

This series is not a masterpiece of fantasy literature, but it entertains a lot and accomplishes all the goals it sets out to. It also demonstrates hard work and commitment by Jennifer L. Armentrout that should be appreciated.

It is unbelievable that age, gender, sexuality, and parental status are being used to attack the readers. It is nothing they can change and has nothing to do with their personal taste.

The number of misogynistic comments in the reviews is abominable, especially considering that most, if not all, come from women.
Let's be honest, this is not and will never be a Nobel or a Pulitzer prize. You are here because you like the romance, and you are already well aware that it will involve sex (which you probably like as well).

I do not understand how the Joining came as a surprise to some of the readers. Jennifer has been hinting since the first book that the relationship between Poppy, Cas and Kieran is different and charged with sexual tension (besides the frequent mentions to the joining, threesomes etc):
- Poppy keeps staring and Kieran naked and Cas is not only ok with than but intrigued.
- Kieran watched Poppy bath and said Cas wouldn't mind and would be intrigued.
- They all slept tangled up, turning to Cas as if he was a magnet.
- Cas trapped Poppy and Kieran on the wall while feeding.
- Kieran stayed in the room while Poppy fed from Cas and while they had sex.
- Kieran said that his bond with Cas would always be special, they just made room for her.
- Poppy watched while Kieran was getting head and Cas touched her.
- Everyone keeps mentioning how Kieran is good for them both.
- Several mentions about how intrigued they all are with each other.
- The touching between them has been increasing since the first book.

My complaint regarding this specific scene is that I feel Jennifer was afraid of the readers reaction and ended up creating something too vague.

Moving on to the actual book... I think Jennifer has been doing a good work with the world building, and I especially appreciate the connection with Niktos and Seraphena story.

I've found the pacing of this book a bit off. I enjoyed the pace until Poppy found Cas, as it gave time to see the characters and the war developing. Unfortunately, the end felt a bit rushed. There are a lot of things happening and less time to absorb it all.

My major criticism regarding the whole series is the character development. I liked Cas on the first two books but his ARC has been inversely proportional to Poppy powers and character development. I was convinced Cas POV chapters would help building more layers to his personality, but I didn't see it happening yet. I hope Jennifer will keep writing Cas POV and developing his personality beyond what he feels for Poppy.
Poppy is a Mary Sue, which is something I hate. Despite her increasing powers, Poppy grew up very secluded and it will be natural to need more time to adjust to her new life as well as more support to make decisions, especially when it concerns to politics and war.
Kieran is my favourite character and I want to continue see his growth (beyond the relationship and feelings for Poppy and Cas).

I hope Jennifer doesn't give in to pressure and keep developing the throuple.
I will keep reading her books as I like the writing, the world building, and I see potential on the stories. I hope Jennifer will be able to find the sweet spot between adventure, politics and romance.