The Wicker King

#1 The Wicker King ★★★★★
#1.5 The Legend of the Golden Raven ★★★★☆

I originally read this book as an ARC, and was really bothered by a few things in it. I was so disappointed that I gave it 2.5 stars, but as the finished copy released, I started receiving messages from friends, saying it was different from what I had reviewed. I was confused, but didn't look too deeply into it until the author contacted me and explained. She told me she had changed a lot of what bothered me in the ARC, and asked would I like to read the finished copy.

She was so kind, and I had wanted so badly to love this book, so I reread it, assuming that I would be at least marginally more pleased with the finished release. I never expected her to have fixed it so perfectly that I would love it this much. I am so happy that I gave this book a “second chance”, and after much deliberating, have actually decided to remove my old review entirely, because honestly, this book is entirely worth your time. <3

“They have stories about you, songs. They call you the Raven, the Golden Bird, the King's Lionheart. Women smile at you as we walk in the streets; men talk about you over their fires. It's written all over the walls. They love you and you can't even see them... my Lionheart. Can you imagine?”

hurts

Jack owned him. In a way. It was difficult to explain, but the feeling was as familiar to him as his own name.

ever

He fell. Groaning. Thinking of chapped lips, strong arms, and freckles.

just fine

The Wicker King,

(ETA: I actually even found this through the author's twitter, which does have some spoilers, but also offers bona fide proof of the intended D/S mechanics, in case anyone is curious.)

“I see you the same. I don't think it will ever change... It doesn't matter if you're wearing my colors or dressed like this. You're always just you.”

Jack laughed. “How romantic. My knight in shining fucking armor.”