ARC Review: Warrior Princess Assassin by Brigid Kemmerer

Brigid Kemmerer has been one of my auto-buy authors ever since A Curse So Dark and Lonely and Defy the Night, so I was incredibly excited to dive into Warrior Princess Assassin. Unfortunately, despite a promising premise and a few shining moments, this one didn’t quite live up to my expectations.

What’s it about?
Told through three interwoven points of view — the Warrior, the Princess, and the Assassin — this book follows Warrior King Maddox Kyronan, whose fire magic is as dangerous as it is uncontrollable. In an effort to save his burning kingdom, he agrees to a marriage alliance with the royal family of Astranza, known for their weather magic.
Princess Jory, shy and sheltered, carries the heavy burden of knowing her family’s magic is fading. When she meets her intended, sparks fly — but she’s hiding a truth that could ruin everything.
Meanwhile, Asher, once Jory’s childhood friend and now a trained assassin, accepts a high-paying mission… only to discover his targets are Jory and Maddox. Torn between duty and love, he must make an impossible choice.

My thoughts:
I went into this book completely blind, simply trusting the author's name. At first, I was intrigued — the setup had so much potential! But around the halfway mark, I realized the story wasn’t working for me. The pacing dragged, with very little actual plot progression. There were extensive internal monologues, pages of introspection, but not much happened. I usually prefer fast-paced books with a strong storyline, and this felt more like a slow character study than a fantasy adventure.

The worldbuilding was very minimal — I still don’t know much about the kingdoms, their history, or even the stakes of the looming war. The magical elements, while interesting (especially the fire vs. weather contrast), were underused and left me wanting more. As a romantasy reader, I expected a better balance between romance and fantasy, but here the romance completely dominated the narrative.

That said, the romance was intense. This is a highly character-driven love story, filled with tension, yearning, longing stares, accidental touches… all the classic tropes. What initially seemed like a love triangle quickly turned into a "why choose" situation — and let me tell you, I was giggling and kicking my feet at times! The spice level is way higher than in Brigid’s previous books, and I was speechless — in a good way. It was very well written and undeniably entertaining.

As for the characters:
• Ky was a standout. Complex, confident, yet deeply compassionate — he was definitely swoonworthy.
• Asher had real depth as a traumatized assassin shaped by loss and grief. His internal struggle felt raw and believable.
• Jory, however, didn’t work for me as much. I usually enjoy fierce, bold heroines, and Jory was more soft-spoken and sheltered. While she had brave moments, I couldn’t fully connect with her.

In the end, I’m conflicted. On one hand, the romance was fire — full of angst and chemistry — but on the other, I was honestly bored at times. A stronger plot, more worldbuilding, and a compelling villain could have made a huge difference.

You’ll love this book if you enjoy:
• Slow burn and romantic tension
• Love triangles (or why-choose!)
• Elemental magic
• Assassin tropes
• Arranged marriage dynamics

Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)
While it didn’t fully work for me, I’m sure many readers will fall for this steamy and emotionally intense romantasy.

Thanks to Netgalley and Harper Collins for this eArc in exchange for an honest review <3

Yeah okay, the title is giving Wattpad-core, but don’t let that stop you — this book? Absolutely slapped.

I braced for a classic love triangle (aka the love V where one guy is just cannon fodder for angst). But Brigid said NOPE and gave us a real triangle. Emotional tension. Actual bonds between all three characters. Zero second-lead disrespect. I was thriving.

👑 The FMC? A little tropey — pampered princess one moment, “formidable opponent” the next. But somehow it still worked. She grew on me, and the relationships carried the story.

🗡 The two love interests? Ohhh the pain. Tragic backstories, complicated layers, and yes — undeniable chemistry with each other too 👀💔

💫 Instead of picking one and crushing the other, the story goes full healing-journey mode. And honestly? That ending left me feral for the sequel. Brigid, ma’am, I need more immediately.

✨ If you’re into fantasy with emotional stakes, actual triangle dynamics, and characters trying to heal not just hook up — this one’s for you.

Thank you so much Netgalley, Harper Voyager and the author for gifting me this book in exchange for an honest review.

Warrior, Princess, Assassin was an okay book.

The premise was intriguing but not very creative, I’ve already read something similar a couple of times, for instance in Fire in the Sky by Sophie Jordan. And that’s one of the reasons this didn’t get a higher rating: it just didn’t stand out. It wasn’t very original, it didn’t distinguish itself from other books, and honestly, it’s not very memorable.

Another thing I didn’t like: the romance. I was expecting (and craving!) a love triangle, but this turned out to be a why-choose romance, which I wasn’t prepared for. It’s not something I look for in books, and not something I enjoy reading.
And this year alone, I’ve already come across two books that were grievously mismarketed! Please market books correctly so they actually reach the right audience, and to avoid low ratings from readers who were expecting something entirely different!!! If Iwere only taking into consideration this aspect, I would've given the book one star.

Some meh things: little to no plot, and sparse worldbuilding, although knowing how Brigid writes, this will be fixed in the next installment.

Some pros: I loved how intricate and complex the characters were, and how different their motivations felt. I also really appreciated how Brigid Kemmerer handles heavier topics like grief and healing, she does it with care and nuance. The yearning was great, and the various POVs were well balanced and all fairly interesting.

I've loved Brigid Kemmerer's other books. I've found them so quick and easy to read, and written like true fairytales. I couldn't wait to read this new story from her. And I lived it jsut as much as her other books, possibly more! An autobuy author for me!

4.5⭐ rounded to 5⭐

Brigid Kemmerer has restored my faith in romantasy!

In a market saturated with mediocre romantasy books, Warrior Princess Assassin shows that you can take the overdone tropes and micro tropes, write them in a fresh, non-cliche way and produce a banger of a book.

This is very much a character driven story and I adored our MCs. Individually they have flaws and can be frustrating but together they create balance and round each other out well. And Asher, poor broken Asher. He must be protected at all costs! The tension and the push and pull leading up to the spicy scene was oh so delicious.

The plot takes a back seat to the relationship between the MCs but that doesn't mean it was lacking. We get a slower introduction to the world and magic system. However, there was plenty of political intrigue and action to keep me hooked. I appreciated that Kemmerer did fall into the trap of overwhelming readers with a massive info-dump about the world and magic system.

WPA is a great first book in what promises to be an epic romantasy trilogy. The MCs have been in depth and for book 2 I would love a deeper insight into the world, especially the magic system. I'm predicting we'll see more from Jory for sure in that regard.

Thank you Netgalley and HarperCollins UK for the eArc. Warrior Princess Assassin emotionally destroyed me and I'm already desperate for the second book!

Rated 4.5/5 stars!

Warrior, Princess, Assassin is a gem of a romantasy story that I just couldn’t put down. Following three POVs and their increasingly complicated situations when a betrothal-gone-wrong leads all three astray, this is a journey where I didn’t know the ideal outcome- and loved the story all the more for it.

The dynamic between our trio is one of irritation-meets-infatuation, and I ate. it. UP. I adored the push and pull between our main characters, no matter what direction that was felt at any given point, and if anything it just kept reeling me back in, hooked on the outcome for each character. It was tense, heated, and alluring all in one. Add in the political fantasy plot, and I was sold.

Warrior, Princess, Assassin is an incredible foray into adult romantasy from Brigid Kemmerer, one that is bound to have readers begging for more - and is now leaving me longing for book 2 😂

The premise of Who Should You Trust? immediately caught my attention – a fire-wielding warrior king, a weather-magic princess, and a dangerous assassin with ties to both. The setup promised political intrigue, forbidden romance, and high-stakes magic. And at first, it delivered.

The beginning was compelling, with a strong hook and an intriguing magical world. However, as the story progressed, I found myself losing interest. The pacing started to drag, and the characters , while initially interesting , didn’t develop in a way that kept me invested.

One major issue for me was the romantic angle. This is a “why choose” romance, meaning the main character doesn’t have to pick between love interests. That’s totally fine for readers who enjoy that trope, but it wasn’t made clear up front. I went in expecting a more traditional love triangle or a clear romantic path, so the direction the story took felt misleading. I think it would be much better if the book was upfront about being a why-choose romance – it would help manage reader expectations and reach the right audience.

Overall, while the world-building had potential and the concept was creative, the execution didn’t work for me personally. If you’re a fan of polyamorous romance and enjoy a slow-burning fantasy with love-triangle dynamics, you might still enjoy this, but it wasn’t my cup of tea.

This book has everything that romantasy fans (like me) look for in books : high-stakes politics, slow-burn romance, elemental magic, and a storyline that makes you want to keep reading even when you should really sleep!

It was the second book (serie) from Brigid Kemmerer that I read (Defy the Night being the other one) and she has definitely become one of these authors that I will read any book from.

The story being told from three POVs made is so interesting to me, as it doesn’t happen that often in books. Each characters are unique : Maddox, the fire-wielding king; Jory, the princess with a magical legacy; and Asher, the would-be assassin. The triangle between these three never feels forced (which is a real plus as I personally find triangles usually awkwardly written). The world building, the political intrigue and threat of war, the emotional depth and the tension made it such a gripping book. I cannot wait for the next one!

4.5 stars

The way I devoured this book! This was a sensational read, brimming with heart, humour, political intrigue, and a delicious undercurrent of sexual tension that kept me utterly hooked. While I adored all three leads, it was the chemistry between Ky and Asher that I truly couldn’t get enough of.

The story doesn’t shy away from darkness—there are gritty, raw moments that lend the fantasy world real depth and stakes. The battles are brutal and unflinching, with Brigid refusing to gloss over the realities of war and power. Yet, for all its darkness, the novel is also full of tenderness. Jor, a sheltered princess, faces a devastating awakening to the harsh truths of her kingdom in a scene that broke my heart. I’ll admit, her naivety did get on my nerves at times—she’s so protected and innocent that I found myself frustrated by her lack of awareness. But Brigid does a fantastic job of bringing this back around, using Jor’s journey to show real growth and resilience. By the end, her character arc feels earned and genuinely moving. Her brother Dane is a master manipulator, using her as a pawn to forge an alliance with Ky, the formidable King of Incendar. Dane’s cruelty and political gamesmanship add another layer of tension, making Jor’s journey towards agency all the more compelling.

Ky is a standout—our brooding warrior king, forced into brutality at a young age and now burdened by the horrors of war. I absolutely loved him—not just for his ruthlessness, but for the big heart he tries to keep hidden. His ability to see through Asher’s tough exterior and bring a sense of calm to their dynamic was beautiful to witness.

Asher, our assassin and Jor’s steadfast best friend, is a character who wears his scars openly. He’s sweet, stubborn, and haunted by a tragic past, constantly wrestling with his own demons. While his friendship with Jor is moving, it’s the comfort and softness he finds with Ky that truly kept me turning the pages. Their connection is magnetic and deeply satisfying.

This is a “why choose” romance, and the spice towards the end is everything I hoped for—emotional, and perfectly earned. Brigid’s foray into adult fantasy is a triumph: the world-building is immersive, the stakes are high, and the relationships are unforgettable.

I can’t wait to see where this series goes next. If you love your fantasy dark, gritty, and full of heart, this is an absolute must-read.

Oh my freaking god. She has done it again! This book is now my absolute favourite of Brigid (And I LOVE all her books). This is an absolute masterpiece, the plots, the twists, the emotions and the M/M/F (That was just to kill me). I absolutely adored this book, I loved the characters and how their past was revelled slowly. The slow burn between all three characters was almost painful at times but OMG that chapter near the end just did it for me.
Once again the whole world building is great (stunning, seriously where do you get this imagination from), the writing was lovely.
I have nothing negative to say about this book and I can’t wait to receive my deluxe signed edition in August now.
Thank you again Brigid for keeping me hooked on your books.

ARC Review ~ 4.5☆

Okay, I wasn’t expecting to enjoy this book as much as I did—but wow, Warrior Princess Assassin pulled me in fast and kept me emotionally tangled in the absolute best way.
I’ve read a few F/M/M books before and I’ll be honest, I’m picky about them. The balance between characters and the plot has to be just right, or it ends up feeling messy or uneven. But Brigid Kemmerer completely nailed it here.

The story centers on Princess Jory, who’s supposed to be married off to King Ky for the sake of a fragile alliance their kingdoms desperately need. He’s feared across her land—rumored to be cruel and dangerous, with terrifying magical abilities. But when she meets him, he’s... not at all what she expected.
At the same time, her best friend and lifelong protector Asher—who also happens to be an assassin—has just been given a contract to kill Jory and King Ky. Instead of following through, Asher risks everything to warn Jory, and from that moment, the three of them are swept into a web of secrets, loyalty, betrayal, and a very complicated relationship dynamic that slowly unfolds into something much deeper.

Once the three of them set off together, the story takes a noticeable shift into character-driven territory. There's less external action for a stretch, but honestly? I didn’t mind at all.
Watching Jory, Ky, and Asher slowly learn to trust one another, question their own beliefs, and face their personal traumas was incredibly satisfying.
Each of their relationships—Jory and Ky, Ky and Asher, Jory and Asher—had its own dynamic, its own pace, and its own emotional resonance. Nothing felt rushed. Nothing felt like a shortcut. These were characters growing alongside each other, not just falling into attraction because the plot demanded it.

What really stood out to me was how thoughtfully each of their arcs was handled. This wasn’t a case of “insert love triangle, add drama.” There’s no “cheating” here either, because all three are aware of each other’s feelings from early on, and there’s a mutual understanding that unfolds with time. It’s rare to read a poly relationship done with this level of care and emotional realism—and I loved that no one ever felt like the “third wheel” or just thrown in for tension. All three—Jory, Ky, and Asher—were full characters in their own right, and their emotional journeys mattered just as much as the romance.

And don’t even get me started on the side characters and the found family vibes we pick up along the way—they were delightful. From the gruff allies to the unexpected moments of tenderness, it was such a pleasure to be in this world.

This is very much an adult fantasy, and it doesn’t shy away from its darker elements. Asher, especially, has a painful and traumatic past that’s shaped him into someone guarded and often cold. But Jory’s journey—learning to see all of Asher, not just the childhood friend she knew—was beautiful. And Ky? Totally misunderstood. He’s got his own secrets and scars, and watching the layers peel back on his character was so rewarding. Their bonds aren’t built on lust or idealized romance—they’re built on long talks, hard truths, shared danger, and growing respect.

Now let’s talk about the spice. I usually don’t love explicit scenes in fantasy—too many books shove them in too early and too fast just for shock or appeal, sacrificing emotional depth. But this? This was the exception.
The intimacy in Warrior Princess Assassin only happens at the very very end and is slow, careful, respectful, and deeply character-focused. Each of the three main characters has a different relationship with intimacy, and the way their boundaries and vulnerabilities are handled made those scenes mean something.
That said, the scene does unfold over several chapters, and I’ll admit it felt a bit long to me at times—but I’ll gladly take a slow, character-driven scene like that over a rushed one with no emotional weight.

This book might not be action-heavy for a stretch, but if you’re into rich character development, emotional depth, and unconventional relationships that are actually earned, then this is absolutely worth reading. I’m deeply invested in these characters now, and I’ll 100% be picking up the next book in the trilogy. The dynamics are just so unique and well-executed—I can’t wait to see where Kemmerer takes them.

Final thoughts:
If you love slow-burn romances, complicated relationship dynamics (including polyamory), found family, characters with trauma and healing arcs, and respectful, earned intimacy, then Warrior Princess Assassin is definitely for you.
Just make sure you check the content warnings ahead of time—this is an adult fantasy with explicit scenes and mature themes.

This book surprised me in the best way, and I’m so glad I had the privilege to read this ARC! Thank you, NetGalley.

The first quarter of this book started off promising and the last quarter was confusing.

I did enjoy the main aspect of the plot, but I wasn't sure how the storyline would develop.
I think that the last few chapters with the relationship between the main characters all happened too fast and then it was over and I'm not sure I can see where else it will go in the next book.


Thank you to HarperCollins UK and NetGalley for the ARC.

Going into this book I got everything I expected and delivered what it says it was going to!
The plot was well done, and I was sad to reach the end but it has been a ride I can't wait to go back on

I went into this book with no idea what to expect, and it was such a good surprise! The first few chapters felt like the setup for a classic fantasy love triangle, but as the story unfolded it grew into something so much deeper. The characters are messy, flawed, and deeply (and sometimes frustratingly) human, and I mean that as the highest compliment. It’s much more character-driven than plot-driven, and it worked really really well.

First, we have Ky - the warrior. Grounded, loyal, and emotionally intelligent. His care for his people, his protectiveness over his sister, and the way he's willing to listen, compromise, and give both Jory and Asher the space and understanding they need? Just… ugh. He’s such a steady emotional anchor, even when the others don’t know what they want or how to ask for it.

Then there’s Jory, the princess. Earlier on in the story she came across as quite naive and thoughtless, which made it difficult to connect with her character. But her growth once she got some distance from her controlled upbringing was so satisfying. Watching her step into her own power and eventually decide to challenge her asshole of a brother - what a transformation.

And last, but absolutely not least, there's Asher - the assassin. Traumatized, guarded, and terrified of being vulnerable. His backstory hit me way harder than I expected, and honestly, he deserved so much better from the world. The way he protects Jory with everything he has, while slowly and almost reluctantly beginning to trust Ky? My heart. He’s the kind of broken that doesn’t magically get better - but he's learning, little by little, how to let people in.

If you love character-driven fantasy with emotional depth, slow-burn connections, and main characters who really earn their growth, Warrior Princess Assassin is absolutely worth the read.

I’ve never been so sad to reach the end of the book - I’d like the next one yesterday please!

Jory, the Princess is being forced to marry Prince Kye, the warrior, in a bid to form an alliance between their two nations. But, not it appears to not everyone is onboard with this alliance, as Asher, the assassin, soon learns.

I feel like this book was just the tip of potential for these characters. It sowed the seeds perfectly, with intriguing back stories and the sparks of romance - plus some found family (a trope I love).

Each of the main characters is on their own journey. Jory is learning her view of the world is not quite what she was lead to believe. Asher is having to learn to be vulnerable. Whilst Ky is learning how to trust. All of them are sleeping with one eye open.


I do think a trick was missed not calling it ‘Warrior Assassin Princess’, but whatever.

Thank you NetGalley and HarperCollins UK

Oh, I enjoyed it so much more than I was expecting, a perfect romantasy. I had so much fun and I absolutely loved the main characters!

Jory, Princess of Astranza, is forced to marry the King of Incendar, to form an alliance her kingdom desperately needs. King Ky is a feared leader of his kingdom, but he needs the power of Jory's father to save his people. Asher is an assassin, a childhood friend of Jory, tasked with killing them both. But who is trying to killed them both before the alliance is forged? The three of them will have to figure that out, all while a simmering tension grows between them..

The main reason I requested this book is because I knew this wasn't a love triangle, so don't go expecting that. As far as I'm concerned, this is the only right way to do a relationship when three main characters are involved. There was so much tension between them, a delicious slowburn filled with conflict, trust issues, banter and so much chemistry. The three of them were such a delight to read, I hope it continues in this direction. When you add to that political intrigue, betrayal, great secondary characters and immaculate worldbuilding, you get a story you will absolutely love.

The characters, not the plot, were driving the story, which I loved. The story was set up perfectly. We were slowly introduced to the world and we really got to know the characters.
Asher, his story broke my heart, it's always the tortured souls that get me.
Ky, ruthless yet so kind and protective, made me fall in love with him almost instantly. His soldiers and he and the way they were with each other, were one of my favourite parts.
Jory, she was a compelling character. She was incredibly sheltered and naive, but I loved how she came into her own strength.
I can't wait to see where this story takes them. I will be anxiously waiting for book two. The story is just starting, since we got more of the plot towards the end. I guessed the traitor pretty easily, but that didn't take away much from the story.

I devoured this book in one breath, I couldn't pull myself from it. Can book two come any quicker?

This book grabbed me from the beginning and kept my interest throughout. The magic was intriguing, and the world-building was solid but not overly complicated, in my opinion. I was not expecting a why choose romance situation, but I loveeee why choose, so I wasn't mad a bit. There is plenty of tension, pining, yearning, etc to go around! Ky, Jory, and Asher are all so different but likable characters, and I am invested in seeing where they all end up! The plot picked up in the last 1/3 of the book, and I could not put it down. I thoroughly enjoyed the political aspect of this and how many betrayals we get to see between the main characters, because this upped the drama and tension. I can't wait for the next book!

This book was everything I didn’t know I needed—fast-paced, emotional, and seriously hard to put down. I loved the mix of fantasy, politics, and romance, and how the story didn’t shy away from tough choices and complicated feelings. Jory is such a fierce, complex heroine, and I loved watching her grow and struggle through all the twists thrown her way.

The three POVs really added depth, and the dynamic between Jory, Asher, and Ky completely stole the show for me. The fact that she didn’t have to choose between them made my heart so happy—it felt fresh and honest in a way that’s rare in fantasy.

Brigid Kemmerer has such a way of writing characters that feel real, even in magical settings. I already know I’ll be thinking about these characters for a long time, and I’m so ready for book two!

*thank you to netgalley and the publisher for an early copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*

5⭐️ 🌶️2

Warrior King Maddox Kyronan’s kingdom is suffering, fires rage and crops are barren. His last shot at saving it? A strategic marriage to Princess Jory of Astranza, whose father’s weather magic promises rain, harvest (and hope) in exchange for military support.
But sparks fly between Maddox and Jory from the start, and what was meant to be a political alliance quickly turns personal. What Maddox doesn’t know is that Jory’s father is dying, and the magic he’s depending on is fading fast.
Meanwhile, Jory’s childhood friend turned assassin, Asher, is given a high-paying contract: kill both royals. As the threat of war builds and secrets begin to surface, Asher must choose between duty - or his heart.
Warrior Princess Assassin is the first book in a brilliant new romantasy trilogy that had me hooked from the very first page all the way to the last! It’s everything a romantasy should be - full of tension, court intrigue, action, and romance, all against the backdrop of a vividly imagined world that feels both immersive and refreshingly unique.

The world-building is so well done. Every court, alliance, and betrayal adds new layers to the story without ever slowing down the fast-paced plot.

The three-way POV works really well - I was so invested in their journeys and emotions throughout the entire story. My heart ached for Asher, and Maddox is top-tier book bf material. Jory is strong, loving, and flawed in a way that makes her feel real. Her character arc was one of my favourite parts of the book.

The romance is a slow-burn, and there’s plenty of yearning and tension simmering under the surface from the beginning! I loved how their relationships develop.

This was my first book by Brigid Kemmerer, and I’m already looking up her other books to see what I’ve been missing. The ending was perfect and I’m desperate for the next book already!

Thank you NetGalley and HarperCollins UK for the ARC in exchange for a review.

4.5*
One thing I must say is... I did not see this plot coming. I went into this book totally blind, and I was not let down in the slightest.

Brigid is such a talented author, after loving her Defy the Night series, I knew I'd absolutely love her adult romantasy debut: Warrior Princess Assassin. And my goodness did she prove me right, even after the first few chapters I was enamoured and totally obsessed.

We follow three main characters: Ky (our Warrior), Jory (our Princess) and Asher (our Assassin), through trials and revelations, whilst they learn if and how they can trust each other in their journey ahead. The tension and yearning throughout this book is SO well done, and I cannot wait to see more of how their relationship develops in book two - and that's saying a lot from someone who doesn't normally favour polyamorous couples! (throuples?)

The pacing of this book was so perfect, to the point that I felt like I could've sat there and read this all in one go (but I refrained, and dragged it out as much as I could because I was having SO much fun, I didn't want it to end.) I'm so intrigued on the plot direction of book two with book one being the perfect beginning to a new trilogy.

If you love political intrigue, slow burn (but insta-lust), tension and yearning, romance focused over plot focused, hate to love and arranged marriage, then you'll adore Warrior Princess Assassin!