In this stunning queer fantasy, Prince Kadou has recently fallen out of the good graces of the sultan. He is reassigned a new bodyguard (who comes with a useful habit for impersonating a stone wall) and is tasked with investigating a counterfeiting scheme. This is a world where metal can be found impure if one possesses a touch-talent, which makes counterfeits particularly chaotic to stability. As if that weren’t enough, the humiliation and anxiety Kadou feels is at times incapacitating. Kadou must work together with his recalcitrant bodyguard and exuberant armsman to unmask a conspiracy with the potential to destroy the kingdom...and fall in love along the way? 

A Taste of Gold and Iron is one of my favorite books of the year so far!! I want ALL the queer fantasy and A Taste of Gold and Iron is a beautiful addition to the genre. Sometimes you find a book and it just feels perfect for you- that’s how I felt about this story. I loved that the characters had the ability to make mistakes and come back from them. The world-building was thoughtful and queer inclusive. And the tropes…Rowland incorporates so many favorites from: there’s only one bed, found family, kissing to avert suspicion, bodyguard, slowburn and the list continues!! A character also suffers from chronic anxiety and this was handled with intention and care. 

A Taste of Gold and Iron is a standalone, but I hope we see more stories in this world or get to return to these characters!! I loved it and already plan to reread! I can’t wait to see what Rowland writes next. I would recommend this book to anyone but especially for readers who enjoy political schemes, queer inclusive fantasy worlds, and truly lovable characters. 

Thank you to Alexandra Rowland, Macmillan-Tor/Forge, and Netgalley for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.