Empire of Monsters (Cursed Empire)

Fans of lush world-building, morally grey characters, enemies to lovers, and forbidden romance will devour this epic YA series.\nIn an empire torn apart by war, the greatest enemies are within.\nRevenge…\nIn the wake of a ruthless betrayal, Jalie is forced to depend on Nesrelle, Queen of Death. But her army is falling to Nesrelle’s monstrous control. With her empire in upheaval, Jalie clings to the one thing she has left: revenge.\nRebellion…\nAfter a vicious battle, the Forwyn are left reeling from incalculable loss. To defend her people, Lo fights to outmaneuver Emperor Revaed in a deadly game of wills. But the hardest part is being opposed to the man she loves.\nJustice…\nKovi clings to hope for a Forwyn-Alrenian alliance, but mysterious prophecies warn him that his relationship with Jalie may be ill-fated. And when his foes are monsters, is mercy even an option?\nDeceit…\nHis entire life has been a lie. Heartbreaking revelations force Caesiem to choose between the only family he’s ever had, and the woman who has stolen his heart. But his divided loyalties may tear him apart.\nAs all else burns away, four leaders will face their greatest fears—and discover where their true allegiances lie.\nNot sure which order to read Rachel L. Schade's books in? The Cursed Empire series is set in the same world as the Silent Kingdom series, three years later, and follows new characters. If you're interested in both series, it's best to read SK first to avoid all possible spoilers. However, both series stand on their own and can be read in any order.