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Gild

Book 1 in the series:The Plated Prisoner

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Gild by Raven Kennedy is an adult fantasy novel that delves into the story of Auren, the gold-plated prisoner of King Midas. Auren, a victim of Stockholm syndrome, is kept confined in a gilded cage within the castle of Highbell. The book sets the premise for the series, exploring Auren's complex relationship with Midas and her yearning for freedom. The writing style is described as steamy, taboo, and a great reimagining of the King Midas myth, with a focus on world-building and character development.

Characters:

The characters, especially Auren, are depicted with complex arcs, though many secondary characters are considered underdeveloped or one-dimensional.

Writing/Prose:

The author's writing style receives a mix of critique, varying from simplistic descriptions to engaging narratives that resonate with certain readers.

Plot/Storyline:

The storyline intertwines elements of dark fantasy, exploring themes of abuse and liberation, particularly through the experiences of the protagonist, Auren.

Setting:

The world is rich with magical realism, showcasing dark royal intrigue, with the protagonist's 'cage' serving both as a physical and symbolic element.

Pacing:

The pacing is largely slow, focusing on world-building and character development in the first book, with more action occurring later in the series.
The lighting is low, deliberate. Just a crackle of flame over promiscuous shapes that move in warm tandem. Seven bodies working all to one sole release, while I’m here, apart, like a spectator for a s...

Notes:

Gild is the first book in The Plated Prisoner series by Raven Kennedy.
The series is a reimagining of the King Midas myth.
Auren, the protagonist, has golden skin and lives in a 'gilded cage' as King Midas's favorite.
The book deals with dark themes such as manipulation, Stockholm syndrome, and abuse.
Many readers found the book slow, especially in the first half, as it sets up the characters and the world.
The main love interest doesn't appear until the end of the first book, with the romance escalating in later installments.
Readers have noted significant character development for Auren throughout the series.
The series has been compared to works by Sarah J. Maas such as ACOTAR, with dark fantasy elements and complex characters.
The writing style has received mixed reviews, with some praising the depth while others criticize it for being simplistic or lazy.
Trigger warnings apply, as there are scenes involving sexual assault and emotional abuse.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings for Gild include themes of abuse, manipulation, sexual violence, and dark content.

From The Publisher:

By bestselling author Raven Kennedy, comes the first book in a stunning new fantasy series, perfect for fans of Sarah J Maas and Jennifer L Armentrout. The fae abandoned this world to us. And the ones with power rule. Gold. Gold floors, gold walls, gold furniture, gold clothes. In Highbell, in the castle built into the frozen mountains, everything is made of gold. Even me. King Midas rescued me. Dug me out of the slums and placed me on a pedestal. I'm called his precious. His favored. I'm the woman he Gold-Touched to show everyone that I belong to him. To show how powerful he is. He gave me protection, and I gave him my heart. And even though I don't leave the confines of the palace, I'm safe. Until war comes to the kingdom and a deal is struck. Suddenly, my trust is broken. My love is challenged. And I realize that everything I thought I knew about Midas might be wrong. Because these bars I'm kept in, no matter how gilded, are still just a cage. But the monsters on the other side might make me wish I'd never left. The myth of King Midas reimagined. This compelling adult fantasy series is as addictive as it is unexpected. With romance, intrigue, and danger, the gilded world of Orea will grip you from the very first page. Please Note: This book contains explicit content and darker elements, including mature language, violence, and non-consensual sex. It is not intended for anyone under 18 years of age. This is book one in a series.

Ratings (179)

Incredible (30)
Loved It (62)
Liked It (37)
It Was OK (24)
Did Not Like (18)
Hated It (8)

Reader Stats (516):

Read It (177)
Currently Reading (3)
Want To Read (260)
Did Not Finish (24)
Not Interested (52)
 
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