4.5/5

For fans of: Sarah J. Maas, ACOTAR, TOG, fantasy, NA fantasy, political marriage, arranged marriage, enemies-to-lovers, political intrigue, Romeo and Juliet

Synopsis: The Endless War rages and the political heirs, Keris and Zarrah, have no choice but to play their roles. That is, until they meet and divulge that neither has the desire for history to keep repeating itself. Both dream of a world without war, but are powerless to sway their ruling families. Enter Aren and Lara, former King and Queen of Ithicana. Their predicament could lead Keris and Zarrah to peace if they play their cards right and survive the war hungry plans of their families.

Review: I am so excited to be back in this world! The Bridge Kingdom and The Traitor Queen were highlights of my spring reads and I am so happy to say that The Inadequate Heir ranks up there with them. Keris gives off major fanfic Draco Malfoy vibes being in a major position of power yet wanting peace and using his cunning to get ahead. He also is very pragmatic in his expectations and extremely protective of those he loves. Doesn’t hurt he has blonde hair and pale skin, either. Zarrah gives off major fanfic boss bitch Hermione Granger with her curls, bravery, and honor. She is ruthless, gets the work done, but her word is her bond to the point of her detriment. Their love story is the main plot, but woven through are the major events of The Traitor Queen from Keris and Zarrah’s point of view along with political machinations of both King Silas and Empress Petra. We also get an expansion of world building as we adventure through the landscapes and cities of Valcotta and Maridrina along with more backstory about the Endless War. My only critique is that the book is LONG and at times I was confused with the timeline of events from The Traitor Queen. Could it have been edited for a more tightly told story? Yes, but honestly I wouldn’t know what to cut. I love this story so much and I am definitely going to continue with it.