ARC Review: Crownchasers

A deadly competition for the throne will determine more than just the fate of the empire in this riveting duology opener, perfect for fans of The Hunger Games, Aurora Rising, and Three Dark Crowns.

Alyssa Farshot has spent her whole life trying to outrun her family legacy. Her mother sacrificed everything to bring peace to the quadrant, and her uncle has successfully ruled as emperor for decades. But the last thing Alyssa wants is to follow in their footsteps as the next in line for the throne. Why would she choose to be trapped in a palace when she could be having wild adventures exploring a thousand-and-one planets in her own ship?

But when Alyssa’s uncle becomes gravely ill, his dying wish surprises the entire galaxy. Instead of naming her as his successor, he calls for a crownchase, the first in seven centuries. Representatives from each of the empire’s prime families—including Alyssa—are thrown into a race to find the royal seal, which has been hidden somewhere in the empire. The first to find the seal wins the throne.

Alyssa’s experience as an explorer makes her the favorite to win the crown she never wanted. And though she doesn’t want to be empress, her duty to her uncle compels her to participate in this one last epic adventure. But when the chase turns deadly, it’s clear that more than just the fate of the empire is at stake. Alyssa is on her most important quest yet—and only time will tell if she’ll survive it.

Crownchasers

Rebecca Coffindaffer

Published: 29th September 2020
Goodreads
Rep: pan mc, lesbian, gay and nonbinary side characters
CWs: alcohol use, blood, gore, death of a loved one, emotional withholding from a parental figure, murder, guilt and trauma, science fiction-related violence

5 Reasons to Read this Book

ARC kindly provided by publisher

One. This book is honestly the most fun I’ve had reading a book in ages. I don’t mean fun like I’ve hated everything I’ve read, I mean genuine, rip-roaring, fast-paced action fun. I meant to buddy-read this with someone, but I left them behind because there was no way I couldn’t just finish it in one sitting.

Two. For all you friends-with-benefits to lovers trope fans, this book has an excellent case of it for you. They have the best, most supportive relationship of one another as well.

Three. I actually think you should read this book just for Hell Monkey, truly the best character (okay, maybe second to Alyssa herself because I adore her). Please, overlook the fact you have to admit to liking someone who willfully calls himself Hell Monkey (at least until you find out just why he does…).

Four. I really like science fiction that has alien species as the main characters and isn’t just another “humans in space” kind of scenario. Like, humans in space can be great, but give me more aliens! (In case it wasn’t clear, this book does just that.)

Five. The setup for the second book is a thing of beauty. Angsty beauty, sure, but beauty nonetheless. I won’t say anything more but truly. Please read this book.