A review by raikowlreads
The Spy Prince of Basadesh by H.M. Heath, H.M. Heath

adventurous challenging emotional tense fast-paced

4.0

 
Thank you so much to H.M. Heath for providing me with a copy in exchange for a review. 
Would you go as far as to become a slave for a different country to save your own? Arjun, the prince of Basadesh, risks his life to go undercover and infiltrate the enemy's castle.Despite being on a mission to ensure his country's victory in the war against Zorvyaka, Arjun forms a close bond with the high wizard, Eldrin—the very man responsible for his country's demise. While getting close to the wizard could be a strategy to win the war, Arjun is torn between his duty to his country and his growing feelings for Eldrin.

A new gay fantasy book has hit the market, and as a queer person, I love bringing these books into the spotlight. They're often written by queer authors, and this one is no exception.
 
"The Spy Prince of Basadesh" is H.M. Heath's debut novel and the first in The Jali Throne series. I am honored to have read it, as it is a strong start to the series. The author knows how to build up characters and make them fit within the world. But the world itself felt not as developed as the characters. I, however, do really appreciate the amount of research she has done to keep the book culturally appropriate. 

While the book does include sexual scenes, they are not the main focus. I feel like it established a build up for Arjun and Eldrin's relationship. A good enemies-to-lovers book, which I musn't lie has become one of my favourite tropes. 

The book is a straightforward read, with a primary focus on the romance rather than the extensive background storytelling. The war's details are somewhat sparse, with the king of Zorvyaka being depictted as greedy and ruthless in my eyes.
 
 The ending for the book felt for me short, till I realised it is becoming a series. So maybe that the second book will make me feel better about the ending of book one.