Let’s get one thing straight right off the battlefield—no spice does not mean no heat. Ashley Willingham’s A War of Crowns delivers tension, stakes, and slow-burn chemistry with the precision of a sword through silk. And yes, I’m officially hooked.
This book snuck up on me in the best way possible. What began as a slow, steady build turned into an absolute page-turner—the kind of epic fantasy you cancel plans for.
🏰 The Story: A Crown, A Kingdom, A War She Never Asked For
Seraphina de la Croix never wanted a crown—she wanted peace. But when fate places her on the throne of Elmoria as its first ruling queen, the world rises against her. Peace is shattered. War is declared. And Seraphina? She has everything to prove.
From the very first pages, you’re pulled into a world of political unrest, divine magic, and a woman determined to hold power in a world that would rather see her broken. Her journey is filled with sacrifice, sharp dialogue, and unexpected alliances—including one with a man who was supposed to be dead.
Enter the true King of Drakmor, whose reappearance throws everything Seraphina thought she knew into question. Enemies become allies, loyalties are tested, and the slow burn between them simmers just beneath the surface—all without a single steamy scene. And yet? The tension is delicious.
✨ What Makes This Book a Must-Read
✔️ No-spice romance that still has all the feels
✔️ Multiple POVs that add incredible depth, tension, and layered intrigue
✔️ Enemies-to-lovers done right – slow burn with sharp edges
✔️ Rich worldbuilding reminiscent of A Game of Thrones, but without the explicit content
✔️ Chronic pain & achondroplasia representation handled with care and purpose
✔️ Adult characters you can root for (FMC is 30, MMC is 40!)
✔️ Magic, betrayal, and court politics that keep you second-guessing every move
đź’ Final Thoughts
I’ll be honest—I didn’t expect to fall so hard for this book. The pacing starts slow, but trust me: the payoff is phenomenal. If you’re looking for a book that’s all about substance over steam, with sharp writing, swoon-worthy tension, and a heroine who refuses to back down, A War of Crowns will sweep you off your feet.
No spice? No problem. This book is proof that clean fantasy romance can still hit hard.
📖 5/5 stars – For fans of epic tales, noble hearts, and slow-burning intensity.
đź›’ Grab your copy on Amazon today and prepare to be crowned by your next fantasy obsession.
Reading Caffeinated 