Avalon Tower

Even though it’s not something I’d typically choose for myself, I had so much fun reading this book with my book besties (highly recommend getting yourself a set of those if you haven’t any) and I’m looking forward to reading the next one with them in September!

I liked the idea of bringing Camelot and the story of King Arthur’s Court into it a bit as I love retellings/reimaginings of tales I am even only somewhat already familiar with. The enemies-to-lovers trope wasn’t done exactly to my liking as I was more annoyed by Raphael and Nia’s constant misunderstandings that could have been easily avoided. There was another common trope I won’t spoil that I did like! I don’t read many spicy books and I used this one to confirm I’m not the biggest fan of M/F spice (especially when their attraction doesn’t have a whole lot of depth – it was extremely shallow for most of the book and even once Nia expressed attraction beyond the physical, there wasn’t much said), so I won’t comment on that other than to say that I think it was probably well done if you like it. I also have to say that I will never, in life or in death, forget how muscular Raphael is.

There were a few details that didn’t make a lot of sense when I thought about it and the last chapter was a bit rushed but when I just let it go and went with the flow, it was an enjoyable experience and I expect I’ll have a similar time with the next book.

Did anybody else have a phase as a kid where you were obsessed with everything King Arthur, Camelot and the Round Table?

Well even if you didn't this book may still be for you! Fey, spy academy, an FMC that has powers beyond belief and the most interesting world building I've seen in a while.

Nia was enjoying her vacation in France and trying to avoid thinking about how broke she was going to be after when she spots Fey refugees trying to escape from the Veil. In the process of helping them she finds out she has a magical power that the Resistance to the Fey desperately needs in order to save the human world. She must go to Avalon and pass the Culling otherwise the entire world is at stake. Oh and also she can't fall in love with the handsome Fey man that left her broken hearted all those years ago. Should be easy right?

Book 2 is coming out sooo soon! So make sure you catch up and read book 1 ASAP! You won't be left on the same cliffhanger I was, lucky you guys

Alright, book lovers, let's talk about Avalon Tower! This gem took my breath away with its wild mix of fantasy, intrigue, and swoon-worthy romance!

So, here’s the scoop: our main character, a bookseller and caregiver who’s finally treating herself to a dream vacation, ends up getting kidnapped by none other than Raphael, a ridiculously hot fey with tattoos that could probably tell their own story. 😍 Talk about a major plot twist! Instead of sipping champagne on a beach, she’s thrust into the treacherous world of Avalon Academy, where the rules are as dangerous as they are captivating: spy on your enemies, resist temptation, and, oh yeah, try not to die!

What I loved most is how relatable she is—imagine being asthmatic and thrown into spy training when you’re way out of shape! It’s a total underdog journey and watching her navigate this gothic labyrinth of competition and bullying had me rooting for her every step of the way.

And let’s not forget Raphael! He’s a complex character—intense, driven, and oh-so-watchful. The tension between them? 🔥 I was practically fanning myself! The more she learns about his tragic past and their intertwined fates, the more the stakes rise. But getting close to him is seriously risky touching a fey like him is like playing with fire!

Crawford and Rivers have created such a rich, atmospheric world that feels both haunting and exhilarating. If you adore the vibes of *Fourth Wing* and *Throne of Glass*, you’re in for a treat! This book has everything: suspense, fierce competition, and that delicious slow-burn romance that will leave you craving more.

So do yourself a favor and grab a copy—you won’t want to miss this epic adventure! 📚✨