Title: Cold Flame
Author: Susan Copperfield
Series: Royal States #7
Rating Out of 5: 4.5 (Amazing, but not quite perfect)
My Bookshelves: Magic, Paranormal romance, Urban fantasy
Pace: Fast
Format: eBook, Novel
Year: 2020

Even though I know that Rachel is one of the more overtly traumatised of the characters in the Royal States series, it was still a bit of a hit and a bit sad. Although, I do enjoy how well Copperfield deals with such a touchy subject. She manages to make the trauma a serious and important aspect of her personality, without it being so heart heavy that it’s impossible to smile and enjoy the story. It’s a tricky balance to deal with parental abuse in a way that is respectful, but to still keep a light playfulness to the storyline, and I am, yet again, impressed with how Copperfield is able to do so.

Possibly one of the things which almost make Rachel’s abusive history kind of worthwhile is her therapy animals. She starts off adopting rats, and then, quite frankly, it gets more and more insane from there. I had multiple moments of joy and laughter throughout as I imagined this quiet and reserved woman spoiling her pets. And requiring the less than common animals to be her support and emotional comfort in times of stress. I just have dogs, she got a whole zoo of very cool animals to love and adore.

As a secondary character, Ian keeps showing up throughout the Royal States and Agents of the Royal States novels, but his importance and connections within Cold Flame just make me want to read his story all that much more. (I’m honestly not sure if it’s even out at the time of writing this review, but I know that it’s coming!) I love that he is kind of irritating, and initially seems to be this incredibly selfish and somewhat annoying side character. But, as the story and the series unfold, it becomes clear that he actually has the best intentions and is incredibly helpful… he just enjoys being somewhat insane and irritating whilst he does the helping thing.

The recognition that Rachel’s not so great background requires a patient and loving man is absolutely realised in Ethan. He is sweet and cute and so immensely supportive of all of Rachel’s quirks. Although, he is definitely a little bit too concerned when she freaks out, and his spirals are very entertaining. I also thoroughly enjoy all of his manipulations to get her within his life, but his patience at not jumping in and finding her immediately. He’s a great support and I really enjoyed reading their love story.

Image source: Amazon

Title: Bonds ReRead
Author: Susan Copperfield
Series: Royal States #6
Rating Out of 5: 5 (I will read this again and again and again)
My Bookshelves: Magic, Paranormal romance, Urban fantasy
Pace: Medium
Format: eBook, Novel
Year: 2019

Even though this is my second read through, Jack and his ability to Ice Weave is something that I just can’t get out of my head. I love the idea that his Talent is a unique mutation, and that he uses it in such a way that it’s all about saving people. Plus, it’s an indication of how well this world is evolving and growing throughout the series. With each and every book, the Talents are diversifying, and the world is growing more complex. Kind of like in real life.

Something about a Search and Rescue guy falling for a Doctor Princess works really well. They are so well suited, and I really enjoy how they are both all about protecting and caring for others, just in slightly different ways. I particularly love how their talents and abilities match together really well in a survival scenario. One that would test even the best trained – yet, they are able to not only survive, but kind of thrive in the situation and deepen their relationship. It’s a great display of how two people’s talents and interests are able to complement one another other build a stronger whole.

Everything about the Royal States series is about the crappy pathways that power can (and does) take people on. All of the bad things that happen to Jack and Melody are because of one man’s search and obsession with power. And the lengths that some people will take to get it. When I was younger, I would’ve thought that this was just a nice story, but as an adult, and in the world we live in now – I understand that men like this really exist. Which is absolutely terrifying. Yet, it also gives me hope, because there are good people in the world.

I loved everything about rereading Bonds. It is definitely one of my favourite Royal States novels – probably because of Jack and his skill set. I just love that this is a story about someone who has dedicated his life to saving others, and, even when he falls in love and has to change his life course, finds a way to continue on with his legacy and need to save others. A fantastic novel that left me thinking of how power can corrupt, but there will always be people to fight and provide hope.

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Title: Huntress ReRead
Author: Susan Copperfield
Series: Royal States #5
Rating Out of 5: 5 (I will read this again and again and again)
My Bookshelves: Magic, Paranormal romance, Urban fantasy
Pace: Fast
Format: eBook, Novel
Year: 2018

This might be one of my favourite unexpected marriages in this series. I mean, it is an incredibly crass hunter marrying into the Royal Family. That alone was going to be entertaining, but all of the other nuances to how this works… that just made it so much better. And much more humorous and amusing. Sure, Copperfield is great at making points about the social landscape of the world, America in particular. But, she also does this with such great humour that I couldn’t stop smiling throughout.

One aspect of this that I found particularly hilarious was the fact that it was a hunter and a turkey shapeshifter. Yes, turkeys are not the most friendly of birds. Alright, they’re kind of assholes. But they are still often considered “prey” and hunted – I mean, we tend to eat them. So a huntress deciding on a prey shapeshifter was going to be hilarious anyway. Adding in the fact that the “prey” animal is more than willing to beat the crap out of anyone and everyone… absolutely priceless.

Huntress is yet another fun and insightful novel – I love that it goes deeper and further into the issues of child marriage and predation. Copperfield is able to highlight the damage that these horrifying “social norms” can have on people. It’s also the start of ending the practice in the Royal States, something that gives me heart and hope. Yes, this is fantasy, but I love that there is a potential for ending such a terrifying practice.

Unlike some of the other villains in this series, the ones that are the greatest challenge to the couple are actually those who love him most. I love that it’s a reminder that our family, whilst they may love us, don’t always know what’s best for us. Rather, we all have our own biases and beliefs that can make us make poor choices. Luckily, in this case, they realise in time to undo the damage that they start to do. But, it’s almost too late…

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Title: A Guiding Light ReRead
Author: Susan Copperfield
Series: Royal States #4
Rating Out of 5: 5 (I will read this again and again and again)
My Bookshelves: Magic, Paranormal romance, Urban fantasy
Pace: Fast
Format: eBook, Novel
Year: 2018

Adam and Veronica’s story in A Guiding Light is a little bit sad, and definitely has multiple moments of trauma and destruction throughout. But, I love it anyway – somehow, the darkness of their story brings out the light of their love. Or at least, that’s how my optimistic self sees it. The fact that it is Veronica’s father who does the damage just shows how truly horrifying people can be. To be able to destroy his own daughter in this way, and to effectively rip his kingdom apart is a great reminder of how power can destroy… and just how far some people will go to keep their power. But, because this is one of my more feel good stories (even if it’s sad), there is a beautiful, happy ending in which good eventually triumphs over evil.

I absolutely love how dedicated Adam is to those that he loves, even from afar. He is willing to do pretty much anything for Veronica, and her family. Even if he’s not being acknowledged for it, and no one actually knows that he is the one doing a whole lot of the saving. Adam is just such a beautifully pure being, one that is seriously depressed and doesn’t necessarily want to live. But, still, he’s such a supportive and loving man. I also love how he was able to build something from nothing – a reality in which he is able to rescue his home kingdom, having built everything up from being completely disowned.

One of my favourite things about A Guiding Light is the way in which the RPS gets involved. They have been involved and manipulating things from very early on in the series. But, this novel is the one that really drives home just how much they like to get involved and manipulate the situation. Honestly, the RPS is an absolute powerhouse, and I loved every moment of their nonsense and chaos. Plus, their ability to redirect Royals (and the political landscape of the world) is kind of brilliant. The true powers behind the throne… at least, that’s how I took it.

Adam, when he unleashes his powers, and his parents decide to wreak havoc and revenge are a great combination. I really enjoyed how Adam’s ability to actually use his latent powers is very dependent upon his happiness and his willingness to protect Veronica and her siblings. It is a great indication of the depths to which emotions can impact our daily functioning and our ability to shine. And a reminder to find your happiness and love wherever you can.

All in all, A Guiding Light is a fun, sweet and kind of sad adventure. But, those moments of sadness and tragedy are beautifully balanced out with the love and joy that is found throughout. I love the lessons that are learnt, not just by the characters in the Royal States world, but, also by the person reading the story. And, in each read through, I pick up a new nuance which highlights the importance of taking the joy and love where and when you can.

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Title: The Captive King ReRead
Author: Susan Copperfield
Series: Royal States #3
Rating Out of 5: 5 (I will read this again and again and again)
My Bookshelves: Magic, Paranormal romance, Urban fantasy
Pace: Fast
Format: eBook, Novel
Year: 2018

I find the story of Summer and her journey to gaining more knowledge (and power as a side effect) to be a really interesting one. Particularly because she’s a PhD student and has to deal with the horrors of academia politics. I love that, at the end of the day, for some, academia is more about politics than it is actual knowledge and research. And that, upon understanding this, Summer is actually willing to walk away from empty promises and find her own version of knowledge and happily ever after. The fact that it involves a man who just wants to be with her is just a nice little side quest, in my opinion.

I love that Summer is absolutely stubborn, and hyper independent. She absolutely wants to do everything by herself and for herself. Which, I can completely understand. Yet, when Landon points out that she is potentially hindering herself in not asking for or accepting help, she’s not too stubborn and proud to try and fix the error of her ways. We all need help every now and again, and Summer is able to (eventually) learn this, and find a better way to thrive in the life that she has built for herself.

One of my favourite parts of this story isn’t actually Summer’s journey, or the way that her and Landon fall for each other (which is all brilliant). I love how, when corruption is discovered, Summer is able to absolutely bring Landon’s entire castle to its knees. Both physically and metaphorically. It was such a great use of chaos, mayhem and feminine rage to bring about positive change. Honestly, I kind of wish that I had powers of that calibre – that when the world was being kind of (okay, incredibly) horrible, I could bring it to its knee to create a new reality that is a little more fair and loving to it.

Finally, I love how The Captive King build on the meetings with Jessica and Pat, MacKenzie and Will. The layers of this world are really starting to come together to create a phenomenal and unforgettable whole. It makes a more cohesive series, and also gives you insights into well loved characters’ lives as they unfold and live their own happily ever afters. There are also a number of political viewpoints which are discussed, but, mostly, I just love how Summer is able to destroy the predators and give the voiceless some power back.

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Title: Null and Void ReRead
Author: Susan Copperfield
Series: Royal States #2
Rating Out of 5: 4.5 (Amazing, but not quite perfect)
My Bookshelves: Magic, Paranormal romance, Urban fantasy
Pace: Medium
Format: eBook, Novel
Year: 2017

It doesn’t matter how many times I read this, I still love MazKenzie and William’s story. I mean, they’re kind of the major catalyst for a lot of change in this series. But also, they are just funny and cute. I particularly related to MacKenzie this time around – being a single mum and trying my best to do what is good and right for my kids.

One of my favourite things about this couple is the way that William so willingly steps aside to let MacKenzie grow. He doesn’t pressure her or suffocate her, rather, he chooses to give her the space to come into her own power. Don’t get me wrong, I’d be annoyed in MacKenzie’s shoes – he doesn’t consult her. But, I also like how he knows the powerhouse she can become, without hesitation or doubt.

As I mentioned, I really related to MacKenzie as a single mum. And I adored how well she raises her daughter and prioritises her wellbeing abo e everything else. Yes, she’s a working mum, but she never let’s her daughter forget that she is loved and prioritised. I now know from experience that that’d not an easy feat, and it made me love her all that much more. Plus, she’s just a fierce Mumma Bear which is freaking amazing.

I might kind of dislike the term Null and Void to describe MacKenzie, but it did work really well. It perfectly describes how the stereotypes and judgements that MacKenzie experiences impact her everyday life. And, as with everything in the Royal States series, is a great commentary on how racism, sexism, and all the facets in between can seriously impact our society. In the most negative way.

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Title: Taken
Author: Susan Copperfield
Series: Royal States #1.5
Rating Out of 5: 5 (I will read this again and again and again)
My Bookshelves: Magic, Paranormal romance, Urban fantasy
Pace: Fast
Format: eBook, Novella
Year: 2020

Taken is a brilliant novella that follows Patrick in his daily life six years after the official beginning of his reign as King. I love this insight into his daily life (to begin with). It emphasises that everything Patrick was trying to set up for when Jessica first showed interest in him in Storm Called has worked out well. His hard work and education of himself has seriously paid off, and it’s made him into a fantastic and (mostly) sane king. Being a reread, I also love how Taken sets out some of what is to come in the rest of the Royal States series, and just why kidnapping a monarch is such a terrifically terrible idea.

The first time I read Taken, I was only a new mother (or about to become one), so it was interesting revisiting it when I was more established in that role. For this read through, I really hyper focused on Patrick’s children. I loved how Copperfield was able to talk about the children, the challenges of parenting and that pure love you get, even when they might be tiny devils in disguise. Having had a girl, then a boy myself who are both absolute chaos demons, I found the majority of the storyline entirely plausible where they were concerned. And absolutely hilarious.

Having read all of the published books (thus far), rereading Taken gave me a great appreciation of the crafting and planning that Copperfield has put into her books. They are very politically motivated stories, but she’s also setting up character arcs and the overall story line from very early on. There are so many little tips and hints throughout that foreshadow the later stories. And, there’s a whole heap of work that is going into structuring the lore of the world, in the most subtle of ways.

Aside from the hints and setting up a lot of the Royal States world in Taken, Copperfield also beautifully sets up Deidre’s story for the future. I still haven’t gotten to that book (because it hasn’t been published yet), but later in the series, a lot of her story is beginning to be touched upon too. It just makes me want to dive headfirst into this series and absolutely devour it all over again, in the hopes that doing so will distract from the fact that I have no idea when the next books are going to hit the virtual shelves!

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Title: Storm Called
Author: Susan Copperfield
Series: Royal States #1
Rating Out of 5: 5 (I will read this again and again and again)
My Bookshelves: Magic, Paranormal romance, Urban fantasy
Pace: Fast
Format: eBook, Novel
Year: 2019

I seem to have been on a major reread bender lately, and the Royal States series is just the latest in this track. Also, I think that there are going to be a few more books trickling out soon, so I figured I may as well go back to the beginning and see what I pick up on my second read round. Sometimes a reread isn’t the best idea, there have been plenty of books that I genuinely regret rereading. However, that is most certainly not the case with Storm Called – it was just as good and fun as I remembered.

I honestly have no idea what it is about this series that draws me in so thoroughly. The writing isn’t the most sophisticated in the world, but there is just something about it that I absolutely adore. Partially this is the politically driven agenda which threads through all of the writing. But, there is also just something about the world building and characters that is just as good on a reread. I wasn’t surprised by the potency of all this this time, but I was just as pleasantly pleased.

One of my favourite things about Patrick is his practicality. I love that, ultimately, the future king of a “state” is one who is born from the lowest of the castes – and that he uses this knowledge to actually create practical and sane laws. It’s definitely an uphill battle, but with everything that is going on in the world, particularly in America, I think that this message is even more poignant. I mean, we need sane and practical people at the helm to ensure that you know, the world survives and people get to live their best lives…

In amongst Patrick’s drive to just support and love the woman he sets his sights on, this story also heavily emphasises the power of education. It’s such an obvious way to keep the masses down, make education almost impossible to obtain, and therefore, it is easier to keep the masses from being able to rise to power. It’s gorgeous that Patrick recognises this, and then chooses to remove this inequality by making sure he is able to take advantage of the benefits of education. It’s just a reminder that education should be available to all, for free.

Image source: Smashwords