Book 1, Cage of Deceit: Reign of Secrets

Review:

Protagonist: Allyssa, the daughter of Empress Rema and Emperor Darmik, isn't your typical princess, tired of court life and feeling stifled she sneaks out of the castle at night and apprehends criminals with her friend Grevik. I loved Alyssa's character, she's strong, feisty, stubborn, and loyal to a fault. She's not perfect by any means, she has a temper and it can be at times extremely hard to control especially when she meets Jarvik. Nonetheless, She is an amazing protagonist and I can't wait to see how she continues to grow over the course of this trilogy.

Romance: So this romance is complicated for many reasons, 1) Allyssa is on track to marry Jarvik's prince, 2) Allyssa has no romantic feelings for said prince, and 3) Jarvik and Prince Odar are best friends. While there is a tiny bit of a love triangle between the three, it's not really something to be taken seriously, in fact, Allyssa never even has any sort of physical feelings for Odar. To say that this romance is a slow burning one is an understatement, these two start off practically hating each other, but as they get to truly know every side to one another there's a bit of respect that blooms, followed eventually by a bit of romance. This is in stark contrast to the True Reign series where Rema and Darmik's romance seemed to move almost too fast.

World-Building: I'm a huge fan of spin-offs that focus on the next generation. While I loved the adventures of Darmik and Rema, their time has passed and now it's time for their and their friends' kids to have the adventure. In this series, the larger focus is on Emperion and the politics and diplomacy that comes with not only being heir to the throne but also the leader of a large empire. I loved getting to know more about this world, what previous characters were up to, and meeting new and interesting characters. There are secrets and deception afoot, though...

Predictability: So in this book, there are three large and key twists, or rather two as one was never actually revealed. The first one that came up was pretty easy to figure out, though I'm not sure if it was from an abundance of foreshadowing or my own twisted conspiracy theories leading me to notice small bits of foreshadowing, nevertheless after enough time I'm sure anyone would figure it out and it's a good twist too. The second one that came up was much easier to work, though, especially after reading the synopsis, once a crucial bit of exposition/foreshadowing comes up it's pretty easy to work out. The last one, that hasn't been revealed but was teased so many times I nearly went mad, I'm not 100% sure about yet, but if it is what I think it is, I may just cry with joy, mainly because just at the prospect of it being true I teared up a bit. Sorry for being so vague, but I've got to avoid spoilers.

Ending: Attention Jennifer Anne Davis, you cannot end books like that! Well, you can but you're truly evil for doing so. The ending of this book was both excruciating and fantastic. The final climactic scene was epic, and while it didn't turn out quite the way I wanted it to, it did turn out the way I expected it to. I've noticed that this author doesn't like to end her first books in series of even a little bit of a plateaued ending, no, she practically pushed her readers of a cliff forcing them to hang on for dear life. Seriously, I need the next book, like yesterday.

Rating:

So this wasn't much of a surprise for me. I knew I would go into this book loving it, but I have to admit if the quality of these books keeps up they will definitely surpass the True Reign series!

Cage of Deceit by Jennifer Anne Davis is the first in the Reign of Secrets trilogy, a spin-off of Jennifer's True Reign series. This book was absolutely amazing and I'm so happy that I was able to be a part of this blog tour! Fans of the Throne of Glass series, Game of Thrones, and any other title of the same genre will love this book as much as I have.

Seventeen-year-old Allyssa appears to be the ideal princess of Emperion- she's beautiful, elegant, and refined. She spends her days locked in a suffocating cage, otherwise known as royal court. But at night, Allyssa uses her secret persona-that of a vigilante-to hunt down criminals and help her people firsthand.

Unfortunately, her nightly escapades will have to wait because the citizens of Emperion may need saving from something much bigger than common criminals. War is encroaching on their country and in order to protect her people, Allyssa may have to sacrifice her heart. Forced to entertain an alliance through marriage with a handsome prince from a neighboring kingdom, she finds herself feeling even more stifled than before. To make matters worse, the prince has stuck his nosy squire, Jarvik, to watch her every move.

Jarvik is infuriating, bossy and unfortunately, the only person she can turn to when she unveils a heinous plot. Together, the unlikely pair will have to work together to stop an enemy that everyone thought was long gone, one with the power to destroy her family and the people of Emperion. Now the cage Allyssa so longed to break free from might just be the one thing she has to fight to keep intact. In order to save her kingdom, she will have to sacrifice her freedom, her heart, and maybe even her life.

An amazing story with a great cast of characters and brilliant plot, Cage of Deceit was everything I hoped for and so much more! The story was full of twists and turns and lots of deceit. The title is very fitting for the story as this is how Allyssa feels and what's going on around her. My favorite character is Jarvik! He's amazing and I love how he can see right through Allyssa. I also love Allyssa! Fans of a strong female heroine will fall in love with this amazingly strong heroine. Heroine is defined as: a woman admired or idealized for her courage, outstanding achievements, or noble qualities. Allyssa is all that and so much more!

I give this book a 5/5! I literally could not put it down and read through it in 2 hours. It was a great read and I can't wait for book two! I want to read book two right now, but alas I'll have to wait until it comes out! Bravo Jennifer Anne Davis for giving readers an amazing new world to love and obsess over!

Happy reading!

Jennifer Anne Davis has made me a very happy reader yet again! I read her True Reign series in two days. I could not stop. And last night I started Cage of Deceit and I could not put it down for anything! I wanted to cry because now I have to wait for the next one.

You have a princess who sneaks out in the middle of the night who jumps buildings to brings in common thieves and wield a sword like her father can. She clearly cares for her kingdom and when it is threatened will do something she really doesn't want to do... like marry a very handsome prince.

Prince Odar is handsome but he seems to let his squire do most of his princely duties. Allyssa doesn't want a pretty face she wants an equal. Someone like Jarvik (the squire)

There's drama, fighting, sneaking around dressed up like a man, an assassin; honestly what's not to love about this book :)

This spin off series just blew my mind! Allyssa is just amazing. She is a lovely princess who has it all. However, being in the court all day, isn't her thing. So she escapes at night to become a vigilante. Helping her people in a different way. But its great to see her as a princess and a vigilante. It shows just how much she cares.

Suddenly things aren't going to be same anymore. Looks like she may have to work on making an alliance. War is on the way and she needs to find ways of keeping her people safe and finding a way to prevent war. So a plan is made and must be carried out....

Yup, just amazing. This book is going on my favorites list of the year and the author is now an auto buy author. Don't you just love it when that happens? The book is fast paced. The details are amazing and on point. A book worth getting sucked into!

At night Allyssa yearns to escape the castle to catch criminals. One day, she finds that her heroic night missions have been put to an end when she finds that her kingdom is on the brink of war, and she is forced to marry Prince Odar to strengthen their alliances. While the prince is handsome, she finds that he has no brains and quickly becomes bored with him. She instead is more interested in the prince’s squire, Jarvik, who is intelligent and headstrong. Allyssa must set her love for Jarvik aside and come to love Prince Odar for the good of the kingdom.

Allyssa is a feisty character. She is tough, and I love how she fights the criminals. She is well-loved by her people, and I also love her relationship with her parents. They give her everything she needs. She was trained for combat to protect herself if needed. However, because she is the crown princess, she must do what is expected of her including marrying a boring idiot for the good of her empire. She is a good friend, and will do whatever she can to help her friends. I really like Allyssa because she is self-sacrificing. She is willing to put aside her happiness for the happiness of others.

I really like Jarvik. He is a fun character. I like his conversations with Allyssa. Everytime they were together , I could not help but laugh because at first, they were both so headstrong and alike that they intensely disliked each other. However, because they eventually realize how they are similar to each other, they realize they are perfect for one another. I also found Jarvik’s relationship with Prince Odar to be hilarious. Jarvik, Prince Odar’s squire, is everything the prince is not. He really makes Prince Odar look bad because Jarvik is intelligent, an excellent fighter, and has a thorough knowledge of politics. Because Prince Odar is not like his squire, it makes one wonder if he really is capable of ruling his own kingdom because he lets his squire runs it. Therefore, these two were really hilarious, and I found it hard to stop laughing. They made such an intriguing pair, and were a delight to read.

Overall, this book is about family, friendship, love, and duty. This novel is filled with fast-paced action, mystery, and suspense. It is a thrilling page turner that will delight its readers from the very first page. Readers will love this great cast of characters with an intriguing plot. I have to say that I cannot wait to read the sequel! However, I bought the prequel novels, The True Reign Series (the first novel in the series, The Key, is currently available for free on the store) about Alyssa's mom, Queen Rema, so that I can devour while we wait. Still, I wish the sequel would come out soon! I encourage you to read this book for this novel is such a fun read, and will definitely leave you in your seats wanting more! With this novel of Cage of Deceit, Mrs. Davis proves that I will read whatever she writes.
(Note: I read an ARC copy of this book in courtesy of Netgalley.)

Cage of Deceit by Jennifer Anne Davis is absolutely fantastic! While I would normally take the time to complain about evil cliffhangers, I will have to say that Davis warned in advance that she loves hanging her readers off a cliff and took particular joy in noting this was the beginning of a series. I guess this makes me a glutton for punishment. I found once I started the book, it was impossible to put down, which makes me happy that I read fast, otherwise I'd be up a lot later than 1am finishing this fantastic book.

Cage of Deceit is the story of Allyssa, Crown Princess of Emperion. Allyssa is the daughter of Empress Rema and Emperor Darmik, characters from an earlier trilogy by Davis, The True Reign series a series that I have not read, but now wish to explore. Her whole life she has been raised to eventually take over as ruler of Emperion. While she has met suitors, her parents never took any of them seriously and neither did she...that is until war approached her doorstep, suddenly Allyssa is faced with the very real possibility of marrying a prince she does not like all while encountering his insufferable squire Jarvik.

Cage of Deceit is aptly named. There are twists and turns and trickery afoot. All is not as it seems and it will take all of Allyssa's wits to serve her Empire well in the days to come. If you enjoy Fantasy novels, this book will be perfect for you. I found it impossible to put this book down and loved all of the characters. Allyssa especially was easy to relate to, that feeling of knowing your duty, and feeling compelled to follow it, even if it makes you feel caged.

I would give this book more than 5 stars if I could, but alas, I can only give it 5/5 stars for a fantastic book, with a great story and awesome characters. You should definitely READ THIS BOOK, but perhaps read The True Reign series first to get some of the background.

I received this book for free in exchange for my honest review.

Originally seen on www.emilyreadseverything.com

This book! It was exactly what I didn't even know that I was looking for. I had never heard of this book, or the previous series or this author so I had zero expectations going into it. That made loving it that much more exciting!

Allyssa is my kind of princess. She sneaks out of the castle at night to fight crime. Basically she's a superhero. Plus she doesn't take crap from anyone. She has a temper. She's moody. She turns down disappointing suitors and lackadaisical princes left and right. She wants a man who she can trust; who is as loyal and brave as she is. Someone who is strong enough to rule next to her as the emperor to her empress.

Allyssa's carefree days of being batman are cut short when her country is threatened with war. The only way to secure her country's borders is for her to marry and form an alliance. Allyssa is willing to do this. However, she hasn't given up her dreams of a loving marriage like her parents have.

There's so much I want to say about the relationships in this book but I also don't want to spoil anything. One of Allyssa's suitors, the Prince, is perfect. He's got everything going for him. He's tall, dark and handsome; the perfect courtier. Jarvik, on the other hand, is pushy and rude. He has very strong opinions and isn't afraid to share them; loudly if necessary. He's also the Prince's squire. This means he's always around and in the way.

I saw the big reveal coming from the beginning. This story is so good though, that knowing what was going to happen didn't matter to me a bit. In fact, I was rooting for it, because the story went exactly where I had hoped it would go!

Even more exciting, it turns out that this book is the beginning of a series that is the companion of an already completed series! So now while I'm waiting, not so patiently, for the next Reign of Secrets book, I can read all of True Reign! Thank God there's something to tide me over.

I recently attended Book Expo of America in New York City with a couple of blogging friends of mine, and sort of jumped in blind. I knew of maybe 5 books that were going to be featured there and that I MUST-HAVE. CAGE OF DECEIT was in that top 5!

A couple of month’s back I came across her TRUE REIGN series and absolutely LOVED it. There are only three books in the series, and they were amazing! When I found out that she had written a spin-off I literally jumped with joy. I am not kidding! That is how much I loved the characters, the world, romance, EVERYTHING!

CAGE OF DECEIT did not disappoint! It’s filled with just as much suspense and action as Jennifer Anne Davis TRUE REIGN series. There isn't one complaint out of me over this book. It was written well, from beginning to end you are completely entertained and fully hooked on the characters. Davis gives you just enough action mixed in with romance that it makes the story feel complete. It was a bit predictable at times, but I am okay with that because I was secretly hoping the story was heading in that in direction.

I thought Jennifer Anne Davis' TRUE REIGN series was one to rave about, but CAGE OF DECEIT has topped it, and has completely blown me away! I love this book! I cannot wait for the sequel! Davis will forever be on my MUST-READ list. A Good Choice for Reading! ;) A MUST-READ

My excitement when I read the synopsis of this book was overflowing. A princess by day and a vigilante at night, I told myself I HAVE to be part of this blog tour! I really enjoy reading these kinds of books and this one, Cage of Deceit, did not disappoint! I haven't read any of Jennifer Anne Davis books before so this is really a great start for me because ... THIS BOOK IS AMAZING.

I will advise you that I will probably have a lot of typos and could-not-put-into-words feelings in this review because I'm still caught up in the moment. Let's just say I have been staring at my e-reader for 10 minutes at the last page of the book and exclaimed WHAT in which I thought I said it internally. Say, why don't you buy this book like right now. *winks* Anyway, I'll count off the things I loved about Cage of Deceit.

Allyssa is a great protagonist. She is fierce, loyal, passionate to her kingdom and to the people she cares about. Her stubbornness, the don't-get-in-my-way attitude, is empowering and the fact that she sneaks out at night to help hunt criminals and visit her best friend proves it. I loved that she wasn't a damsel in distress; she can fight, wield daggers, shoot arrows and can take down men. I just was a bit ticked off when she chased down a criminal, arrogantly taunting him and the nothing-I-can't-handle attitude and she got mad when she got punched in the face. And also the times when people talk to her that they have to discuss something of importance and she isn't even curious to what they are going to say. Hmm.

To the other characters, who should I begin with? First, Darmik and Rema are probably the greatest parents ever. Almost perfect. I loved how they do not force what they want to Allyssa like when she must marry Prince Odar of Fren for the sake of their kingdom, Emperion, yet they give her a choice that if she isn't comfortable with it, it's okay with them and they will find another way to fight and defend against Russek. Second, I admired Grevik's loyalty as Allyssa's best friend. A true friend indeed. Lastly, Marek, Mayra and Madelin, I loved how they all know each other deeply; a great company to be with.

To Allyssa's relationship with Prince Odar and Jarvik, I knew that would happen, just not the last part. True story: I kind of felt what Allyssa felt. I mostly wanted to punch Jarvik in the face on the first half of the book amongst other things I felt. This book frustrated the hell out of me. Like I said, could-not-put-into-words feelings. Why you do this do me, beloved author?

I loved it. I loved almost everything on Cage of Deceit. That said, I felt that it lacked on action and it focused more on Allyssa's developing relationship with Jarvik. Nevertheless, it was amazing. I think you will be too. Now, GO READ IT. *mails Cage of Deceit to you*

Jennifer Anne Davis has done it again. This author knows how to create a whole new world and bring the reader along for the ride. Allyssa is the daughter of Rema and Darmick from her True Reign series but this is a completely separate series and can be read as such. (However, I love the True Reign series so you really should read it.)

This book takes on a great adventure with Allyssa. There is mystery and there is a fun!

A must read for all ages!!!

You guys... This Book!!! I dieeee!

This book is everything. It has action, suspense, romance, grief, and surprise all rolled up into one third of a series. Jennifer Anne Davis makes no qualms about leaving her readers dangling from skyscrapers; yet, somehow, when you turn the last page, you want nothing more than to praise her for your massive book hangover. And trust me, there is no amount of Jack in the Box tacos that can cure you of this hangover.

To me, it was the perfect spin off to the absolutely stellar True Reign series. I was able to get glimpses of some of my favorite characters (I'm talking to you, Darmik -- a wink ;-) ) while absolutely falling in love with the next generation of leaders... Jarvik -- le sigh!

Don't be afraid; dive head first into this fantastic series and let Jennifer Anne Davis take you on an adventure like only she can.

This is an enjoyable read filled with characters who are given no easy decisions and who rise to the challenges set for them. There are equally strong male and females and their relationships were well worth reading about. Everyone has flaws as well as virtues and they were clear throughout the story, which is what made them feel so human. I recommend this book for the sheer adventure of it.

You guys... This Book!!! I dieeee!

This book is everything. It has action, suspense, romance, grief, and surprise all rolled up into one third of a series. Jennifer Anne Davis makes no qualms about leaving her readers dangling from skyscrapers; yet, somehow, when you turn the last page, you want nothing more than to praise her for your massive book hangover. And trust me, there is no amount of Jack in the Box tacos that can cure you of this hangover.

To me, it was the perfect spin off to the absolutely stellar True Reign series. I was able to get glimpses of some of my favorite characters (I'm talking to you, Darmik -- a wink ;-) ) while absolutely falling in love with the next generation of leaders... Jarvik -- le sigh!

Don't be afraid; dive head first into this fantastic series and let Jennifer Anne Davis take you on an adventure like only she can.

This is an enjoyable read filled with characters who are given no easy decisions and who rise to the challenges set for them. There are equally strong male and females and their relationships were well worth reading about. Everyone has flaws as well as virtues and they were clear throughout the story, which is what made them feel so human. I recommend this book for the sheer adventure of it.

If I could describe Cage of Deceit by Jennifer Ann Davis in one word it would be captivating. I picked this book up and didn't put it down until I turned the last page.

Cage of Deceit had so many things that I love in Young Adult Fantasy. Allyssa was a kick ass heroine with awesome skills and the background to back up why she had the skills. There was political intrigue with war brewing among courts and kingdoms. The novel was filled with delicious tension, vulnerable conversations that were too quickly interrupted and characters with realistic expectations driven by loyalty and duty.

This book has a twist that I totally saw coming but it wasn't a bad thing. In fact, it made the novel more enjoyable because I found myself curling up with anticipation at every possible reveal only to be left breathless and wanting when the truth was continuously withheld. I'm having to take deep breaths as I'm writing this because just thinking about it leaves me breathless.

I was on the edge of my seat the entire time. Anticipating the next political move, late-night fight or possible romantic rendezvous. I fell in love with Princess Alyssa, her best friend, the squire, her parents, the ladies in waiting -- all of them! The characters were well-rounded, deeply enough developed to elicit emotion from the reader and believable. I also thoroughly enjoyed all the action. The fight scenes were exciting and even the sparring exercises were entertaining.

Cage of Deceit was an amazing read. I am distraught because I don't know when I'll get my greedy hands on book two. If you like YA fantasy, enjoy kick ass heroines, harrowing fights and rescues, and hot boys with swords, this book is for you.

Thanks to Clean Teen Publishing for providing a copy in exchange for an honest review!

This one SO didnt disappoint! Suspense and Action await the reader! I loved this book so much I really do need to get it in print like ASAP! You will be hooked from the first page with action and a a little romance which just rounds out the story so well.

Ok now the off stuff. This one at times was a little predictable. But that might just be me. lol.

Thats it on the bad stuff.

I am so happy that this is a series. I can’t wait for more! Now I’m off to stalk the author!

This is a book that keeps your thoughts and heart long after you finish it. I read an ARC of this book weeks ago, and I still find myself thinking about it and what will happen next. I love this book and can't wait to read the next. Another must buy book from an incredible author!

*I received a free e-copy for an honest review, and am buying a paperback because of it!*

I could not stop turning the pages in this amazing fantasy novel, and really fell in love with the characters! I immediately started reading the next book as soon as I was done! Definitely one of my favorite authors in the genre!

What an amazing adventure! I loved the True Reign series and this spin off is even better than those were! I will admit im not the biggest fan of spin off series but the story stole my attention completely from page one. If you enjoy mystery, romance, danger, and a dash of intrigue, then this book is right up your alley! Now I need book 2, because we all know how Ms. Davis likes her cliffhangers... well seasoned with a pile of rip your heart out and leave you breathless.

Well written, engrossing, interesting characters. I highly recommend this book. I read this book as part of a boxed set called Darkness and Destiny. I liked this story so much I had to order book 2 Cage of Darkness.

As usual, Jennifer did an amazing job with this book. It introduces the next generation of the True Reign series where we get to meet Rema's daughter, Alyssa. Jennifer's attention to details makes her books come alive and makes reading her books a delight. Her books are on my "must have" list.

In this enchanting spin-off Jennifer Anne Davis brings the world she created in the True Reign series to a whole new level. There’s plot turns and twists, action and suspense. Include a strong-willed, kick-ass heroine and a good-looking, rugged, just as ass-kicking squire and you have the touch of romance Jennifer Anne Davis always brings to a story. What else does a good book need? I also have to mention the lay-out of the book, it’s so pretty! It’s subtle, elegant but definitely there. And the text on the first page, omg, I love that too. There’s a warning that the book has a cliffhanger, and an ‘I dare you to turn the page’. I don’t recall seeing that in a book before.

The opening episode of the Reign of Secrets trilogy is set a generation after the events of the True Reign saga. The author advises us that there won't be a 'neat, tidy wrap up at the end of this book' and that she 'enjoys leaving people hanging from cliffs.' This intrigued me from the get-go.

In the third person perspective, readers follow Allyssa. She is a princess who is the daughter of Empress Rena and her husband, the war commander Dermik. She is beautiful, elegant and intelligent, leading her to be desired by numerous suitors throughout the land. She has a content yet sheltered existence in the palace. She also acts out a mysterious double existence and moonlights as Lilly, a peasant lady who aims to eradicate crime in her city with the help of her true friend Grevik. Grevik, however, has no idea as to Lilly's true identity. It is only when Allyssa enters the city at night, unbeknown to anyone, that she can truly break out of her cage.

The world, politics and histories seem deep and well-crafted even though the action is only really set within Emperion and its surrounding areas. I'm certain in the following stories readers will see events much further afield. It starts off quite slow, switching between Allyssa's daily and night time errands whilst introducing and fleshing out her relationships with other members of the ensemble and gradually building up a really interesting and complex protagonist who I absolutely cared for. I'd definitely class this a YA fantasy of which I've admitted before I am not an expert, but for teenagers (ladies especially) looking to lose themselves in a deep fantasy world featuring arranged marriages, political turmoil, unpredictability and a main character they wish to root for then there is a lot to enjoy here. The narrative contains great royal balls, assassins, an unbearably arrogant prince and a squire whose motives are anything but transparent. It always seems like there is so much more going on behind the scenes or just out of Allyssa's reach that readers aren't privy to and therefore keeps us engaged and guessing. The ending was pretty intense as was promised although I did predict the big twist. That being said there are still many unknowns and loose ends waiting to be explored and explained in the following two entries. I'm looking forward to venturing back to this world as soon as I can. All in all, I had a pleasantly positive experience reading this. My only real criticisms are that it took me awhile to get used to words like 'geezer' and 'blimey' being spoken in this environment and very occasionally a word would be repeated a few times within a page when alternatives may have flowed better. As you can see I'm 'scraping the barrel' here to find anything negative which loudly expresses the overall quality of this story. Cage of Deceit is an exciting, absorbing political fantasy experience that is expertly polished with reference to the writing and editing. Davis already seems to have a large following and I can understand why. A highly enjoyable SPFBO tale that younger fantasy book lovers will probably adore and one that I devoured within 24 hours.