Published: 2023 | Genre: Romantasy | Pages: 512 | Rating: ★★★★☆
A Spellbinding Escape
Every now and then, a book comes along that feels like it was written just for you. For me, that was The Foxglove King by Hannah F. Whitten. Released in 2023, this romantasy novel pulled me into a gothic world of necromancy, court secrets, and a romance that had my heart racing. If you love dark fantasy like A Dowry of Blood or crave a story with danger and desire, this one’s a must. In this review, I’ll share why The Foxglove King is so magical and who’ll be spellbound by it.
What’s the Plot?
Set in the shadowy city of Dellaire, The Foxglove King follows Lore, a 23-year-old orphan who’s been hiding her illegal necromancy powers since she was a kid. When she’s caught raising the dead, she’s dragged into the glittering but deadly court of the Sun King. There, she’s forced to spy for the king’s son, Prince Bastian, and work with Gabriel, a gruff monk with secrets of his own. As Lore navigates court politics and a cursed blight threatening the land, her tangled feelings for Bastian and Gabriel spark a dangerous romance. No spoilers, but expect a wild ride of betrayals, magic, and heart-stopping moments.
The world Whitten builds is so vivid it gave me chills. Dellaire’s foggy streets and eerie catacombs feel like stepping into a gothic painting. As someone who loves spooky vibes, I was hooked by the creepy yet beautiful atmosphere.
Why It’s a Winner
Whitten’s writing is pure magic—rich and moody, but never heavy. Lore is a fantastic heroine: sarcastic, tough, and a little broken, which makes her so relatable. Her chemistry with Bastian and Gabriel is electric, with a love triangle that feels natural, not forced. I was torn between Team Bastian’s charm and Team Gabriel’s quiet strength! The plot weaves necromancy, court intrigue, and a slow-burn romance so well that I couldn’t put it down.
The story’s deeper themes really got me thinking. Lore’s struggle with her powers and her place in the world mirrors how we all wrestle with who we are in 2025’s messy world. The book’s take on power and corruption feels timely, too. Plus, the gothic fantasy setting—think poisoned flowers and ancient gods—sets it apart from lighter romantasy reads. It’s dark, sexy, and unforgettable.
Any Drawbacks?
The Foxglove King is amazing, but it’s not perfect. The world-building is dense, and the first 100 pages throw a lot at you—names, magic rules, and politics that can feel overwhelming. I had to reread a few bits to keep up. The love triangle, while fun, might annoy readers who prefer a clear-cut romance. Also, some plot twists rely on Lore making risky choices, which frustrated me at times. But these are small flaws in a book that shines overall.
Who’s It For?
This book’s a dream for romantasy fans who love dark, atmospheric stories with complex heroines and steamy tension. If you enjoyed The Serpent and the Wings of Night by Carissa Broadbent or An Enchantment of Ravens by Margaret Rogerson, you’ll devour this. It’s perfect for readers who like gothic vibes, court drama, and a touch of horror, best for ages 16+ due to mature themes and violence. If you want light, fluffy romance, the darker tone might not be your cup of tea.
Why It Shines
The Foxglove King stands out in 2025’s romantasy boom because it’s so bold. Whitten’s necromancy twist and gothic world feel fresh, not like every other fantasy out there. BookTok’s been raving about Lore’s sass and the spicy tension, and I get the hype. As the first in the Nightshade Crown series, it leaves you hungry for more. In a genre full of dragons and fae, this book’s dark magic is a rare treat.
My Final Thoughts
The Foxglove King is a haunting, romantic masterpiece that’ll pull you in and won’t let go. Hannah F. Whitten crafts a world of shadows and secrets, with characters you’ll root for and a romance that burns. I give it four out of five stars for its gorgeous writing and gripping plot, with a tiny dip for the slow start. If you’re ready to dive into Dellaire’s darkness, grab this book and get lost.
Want to fall under its spell? Pick up The Foxglove King at your local bookstore or visit Bookshop.org to support indie sellers. Read it yet? Drop your thoughts in the comments!