Those Beneath

by Almedia Ryan

Deep within the woods, a hollowed oak tree opens into another world-the realm of the Sidhe. In an eerie subterranean labyrinth lies the kingdom of a banished clan, their tunnels filled with unimaginable threats. To survive, the clan shares their kingdom with all manner of devious creatures, and together they use their supernatural abilities to manipulate the elements and enslave weak human minds.

For nearly nineteen seasons, half-human Veil has been an outcast in the only home she has ever known. When her betrothal to a warring clan of bloodthirsty Sidhe is announced, Veil learns that her fate is intertwined with the strings of a cursed harp, and she is forced to flee into the human world. Under the begrudging protection of Kellan McGrath, a farmer's son, and his kind-hearted kin, Veil learns that she is much more powerful than her family allowed her to believe. As Veil and Kellan's feelings for one another grow, Veil wants nothing more than to know if their connection is real or just Sidhe magic. But nothing can stay hidden forever, and soon Veil must face a difficult to save the souls of those she loves she must sacrifice herself to THOSE BENEATH.

359 pages, Paperback

Published May 22, 2023

Reviews

[Bean · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was SO well-written and bingable. The characters are endearing and have great character arcs and realistic, witty dialogue. The romance was slow-burn and angst filled. I will happily place Almedia on the auto-buy author list.

If you're in the mood for:

🦋Slow-burn Paranormal Romance
🦋Fae, Sirens, & Puca
🦋Found Family
🦋Touch Him & 💀
🦋Enemies to Allies to Lovers
🦋Grumpy x Sunshine
🦋Elemental Magic
🦋Irish Setting/Irish Folklore
then this is for you!

Thank you so much for letting me be an ARC reader! I really enjoyed this & look forward to anything else you write.

[Mr. Kreher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some people don't like prologues, but I tell you any doubters who don't like them will change their minds once they read the one in Those Beneath. The action has your skin crawling, really the best start to a story I've read in years. And it doesn't stop at the first chapter. We enter the world of the Sidhe, dark fae, a bit of a torturous realm that manipulates humans into slaves, while others feed from their blood. But not all is a bleak as it sounds, there are some that oppose the rules and regulations of the way of life. Veil is one defiant to the rules, but she is held under her own enslavement by her people, a half-breed, that is promised to an evil prince. Upon a planned escape, she enters the world of the humans. Lost and alone, she stumbles to find an Irish farming family, becoming a part of them, while a pressing date for her to return to the dark realm looms on.

The stories I really enjoy and that captivate me are the ones that pull me into the characters and make them relatable no matter what premise they are in. Ali Ryan certainly does that with Veil and as a reader, I became attached to this main character as well as the family because that is the type of atmosphere I have been around. I can picture the same people in my life and past that fit perfectly into this world, including myself with the hope that Veil has to find a "true" family.

If you are into fantasy books with a bit of a dark edge to them, this is the one to read and keep on your shelf in brilliant display.

[Adrieanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I Love the depth and detail of the Story. The character development was amazing! This was such a beautifully written book.

[Stephanie Cotta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Those Beneath by Almedia Ryan is fabulously written and immersive! I was hooked from the start, and the story never let me go. I didn't want it to end! Ryan's story invites you into an imaginative world of Irish folklore, legend, and mystery. The dark fantasy elements and horror aspects add a gripping layer to the story, but there is hope and love woven amongst the darkness which shines through in beautiful ways.

I fell in love with the main protagonist Veil, who has been shunned all her life for being half-human, half-fae (sidhe). Despite this, she holds a valuable place in the realm, as her father is ranked high among the Sidhe. But when a dangerous betrothal between Veil and a high-ranking, rival Sidhe is announced, Veil is forced to leave behind everything she knows and escape to the world beyond the veil--our world. There, amidst grief and uncertainty, Veil meets Kellan and his family, who shelter Veil on their farm, and they become like family. This Irish family was an absolute delight! Every character came alive and jumped off the page. They were all so well-conceived and felt natural in their dialogue and interactions. I honestly ate up every moment on the farm, and the romance that builds between Veil and Kellan was the best! I loved the way their bond strengthened and developed over time and amidst the hardships they both had to face; it was truly beautiful.

The ending climatic sequence is pulse-pounding and filled with twists and turns that had me devouring pages late at night. I stayed up way past my bedtime on multiple occasions because I needed to know what happened next! If you love immersive worldbuilding, dark fantasy, stories with fae, found family, romance, and twists and turns to keep you staying up late reading, then this is the book for you! I highly recommend!

[Luna Fiore · Rating 4 out of 5]

Disclaimer: I received an ARC from the author in exchange for a fair review. Some spoilers below

I wasn't sure about this read in the first few chapters. I was a bit confused by the double prologues, and I wasn't quite sure who I was following until further in (sidenote: I would absolutely read about Darragh and Maeve falling in love) and Veil was officially introduced as the main character. I wasn't super into her in the beginning, but as the narrative continued, I loved that Veil never gave up and always tried to help and do what she thought was the right thing.

I loved the side characters. Kellan and his family really helped shape Veil and the story. Found family is one of my favorite tropes and I loved how they made Veil feel loved and safe, and how they fought to get her back. Easily my favorite part. While I know it wouldn't have really been possible, would've loved to see Nessa's shift on page. I thought it was very interesting and nice that she helped Veil despite the feelings she harbored towards her half-sister.

The lore and worldbuilding were a bit clunky for me in some aspects. The explanation for how the sidhe came to be just didn't quite hit for me, and at times, it was info-dumpy. Other than that, the world is beautifully detailed from The Barrow to The Cold Lands. I'd love to see more of it.

Once I was in the story, I was in and I wasn't getting out until I finished. I adored the ending. Everything wrapped up satisfactorily for me. My only nitpick about the conclusion is, I wish Darragh had made it. All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed the characters and the story and hope to see this world again.

[Shelly Mack · Rating 5 out of 5]

Those Beneath

This is a book to get lost in. I happily took my time reading this beauty as I did not want it to end. The concept is divinely disturbing and THOSE BENEATH felt very unique in its own right.

Show stopping prologue. I cringed as I felt every written word, desperate to know how it would all tie together.

Ryan has the most beautiful way of filtering details, so natural and relatable. The descriptive language evoked all emotions especially the horrifying ones. I felt everything. And the love story was truly electrifying and filled with the best kind of tension.

I loved the diverse cast of characters and as always, I had a special place in my heart for the 'b' characters, especially Niall.

This YA is at the older end as the story has quite dark themes, age range I'd say 15+.

Thank you for this incredible book. Its a debut that will stay with you long after you read it. Highly recommend to those who love dark and gritty folklore with a hopeful twist.

[Danelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. This is a clean, greyish fantasy romance. The author is a very good writer and I was hooked on this book from start to finish. The world building is great and the story line kept me very entertained and needing to see what happens next.

So just a little about the book, Veil is a half human on her mothers side. She was always shunned because of this. While running for her life she stumbles upon a human man, Kellan. He is a farmers son and is forced to protect Veil. She is made to choose between the humans she had come to love or have them killed.

This book is filled with many wonderful twists and turns that keep you on your feet guessing. I would definitely recommend this book.

[Tabatha Shipley · Rating 4 out of 5]

What I Did Like:
+Beautiful language. Descriptions and banter are equally well presented and make for a compelling story.
+From the moment where things change (I don’t do spoilers so I’m avoiding mentioning WHAT changed) I was completely hooked. This story had a great vibe right from the drop, but this change WORKED.
+The characters are amazing. Their individual natures come through, the romance works, and the descriptions are well done. I adored them!

Who Should Read This One:
-Fans who like when fantasy worlds collide with modern day.
-Fans of my 30 Days Without Wings will like this one! It’s got great similarities but enough changes to keep it fresh. Plus, great characters.

My Rating: 4 Stars

For Full Review:
https://alltherightreads.com/2023/04/...

[Ashley White · Rating 5 out of 5]

THOSE BENEATH is an all time favorite & will forever be a book I look forward to reading again and again. The world and characters the author created are second to none & I cannot wait to see what she does next. It’s absolute magic to see how wonderfully she weaved together fantasy, diversity, action, romance, and pulse-pounding horror. An absolutely captivating story about a girl’s world that’s about to explode and the lengths she and the people she loves will go to save it!

[Chris Hoelzle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is an absolutely wild ride. The momemtum is incredible and I found my curiosity raging as I read on. The way the author tied in the desription of the world, the lore that it holds among the locals, and the plight of the main character is literally movie-like. The whole time I felt like I could hear the wolves howling, smell the muffins, and see the main character, Veil, grow into a hero. I loved this, I literally couldn't put it down. Would love a sequel!!

[KaleDragon · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was a cute story. After all the danger and excitement of the first part of the book, it did slow down to a more relaxing pace, which was unexpected. There were a lot of distinct characters that made the interactions fun. The only thing is, I wish I could have seen Veil learn more about her power. Altogether, I enjoyed reading this.

[Sherry Norris · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great book!! This is such an amazing book. If you like Unmasking the Curse, Belladonna, One Dark Window which our my favorites then you will definitely love this book. Very, very well written and the characters are great. There was 1 part that got me teary eyed. I just love this book

[Marianne Antonichuk · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book and so good it had twists to keep you on the edge of seat I loved how she put this all together can’t wait to see more of her work

[Savannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved this book! The middle 1/3 of the book had a more relaxing pace, but was still quite enjoyable. The MCs were so lovable and the found family in this book was absolutely heartwarming to read about. Would definitely recommend!

[Heather Noland · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was absolutely stunning! From the beginning, I was moved and it immediately sucked me in. Every twist and turn enveloped me and I could not put this book down! The excellent world building kept me throghouly entertained. I cannot wait to see what Almeida has in store for us next!

[Gabby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Almedia Ryan wrote this book beautifully! I was captured from the beginning and taken on a wild ride throughout. I loved how I couldn't predict everything that was going to happen. Her combination of fantasy, mystery, irish folklore, and "touch him and die" made for a fantastic read!

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Those Beneath hooks you from the start. Almedia Ryan creates a world you can step into, if you dare. The end had me wanting more. She not only shares the story of good versus evil but she does so with inclusivity, acceptance and love. I look forward to more books from this author!

[Ruth Bookish Angel · Rating 5 out of 5]

A enchanting tale of love and folklore. The author created a beautiful yet dark world with a protagonist of complex and diverse character. Her journey of self-discovery is rocky to say the least, but with the help of others she finds her way.
A magical, Brilliantly written wonderful piece of storytelling.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Those Beneath by Almedia Ryan is the first book I’ve read by this author. Holy Moly what a journey this book was, there were so many twist and turns… I was so incredibly immersed in this world. This book literally took the fantasy genre and flipped it on its head to add the elements of romance, darkness…a horror if you will and even a dash of science fiction. I was so impressed!!!!

The book literally begins setting itself up to have us questioning the things we are reading. (I loved that ❤️❤️) The main protagonist we met is named, Veil. She’s an outcast… a half mortal with a very powerful father. What this character has to go through in this book is heartbreaking yet there’s hope as well. The journey she goes on emotionally with trying to figure out her best options and how to proceed felt so real. Then her interactions with Kellan… the best!

I think what I liked the most was the Fae in this book are written so differently from how I normally read them, the darkness of it all. I was drawn in a hundred percent. I honestly can’t wait to read more from this author, this book was great.

My final review
5 out of 5 stars. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[iza.lindsey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautiful and complex world building. The Irish Folklore elements are well represented. The beginning is a little confusing but the explanation comes later in the book. I enjoyed being part of this adventure and I fell in love with all of the characters and this story touched my heart with how sweet it is. The story kept me on my toes but also made me chuckle more than once. Truly an enjoyable read.
Note: I received an ARC. The review is truthful and my own.

[Catherine · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m very torn between 3 and 4 stars for this book because did I enjoy it? Yes. Would I recommend it? I honestly don’t know. It was SO on the cusp of being really good and I think I just wanted more detail. I wanted more world building. I wanted more character building. I wanted Veil and Kellan’s relationship and love to build more. I wanted more interaction between the two of them instead of just BOOM they’re in love. I wanted more of an explanation of what Veil’s magical potential could be. Like okay, yes she was born under special circumstances that make her special and powerful but what is the full scope of her potential? I enjoyed all of the found family aspects and got choked up when Aileen and Liam told Veil that she was part of the family, but I would have liked more family moments. I wanted more of everyone explaining the human world to Veil. Instead, she just seems to understand everything in a very short period of time with no fear. I had a hard time with Maddie’s age because she’s really only a year younger than Veil but she acts more like she’s 16. I really wanted her character to just be a little bit more mature. I think if the book were another 100-150 pages, everything would feel a little more fleshed out and rounded. Again, I enjoyed the book, but I wanted more. I’m going with 4 stars because I enjoyed it but in terms of recommending it, I would call it a 3.

[Helen Whistberry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very enjoyable fantasy with elements of horror and romance that explores Irish and fae folklore. As a half-human, half-sidhe hybrid, Veil has lived as a semi-outcast among her own people with only the protection of her powerful father to shield her from greater harm. Forced to flee when a bargain made long ago threatens her freedom and happiness, she finds herself in the human world, floundering to fit in with a kind-hearted clan including son Kellan, her reluctant savior.

This one got off to a bit of a confusing start for me as a prologue and the early chapters set up some mysteries that are only explained later in the book but once Veil goes on the run, I became completely immersed in her plight and the absolutely enchanting McGrath family that takes her in. This middle section of the book fits very much into the cozy fantasy genre as Veil learns the ways of humans and the humans come to value and love Veil.

When Veil is forced to make the difficult choice to return to fulfill her part in the evil bargain, the story takes a darker turn. The fae as portrayed in this version are with few exceptions cruel and sadistic with some truly vile villains so be prepared for horror and tragedy when the Mcgrath family teams up with fae allies to attempt Veil's rescue. There are many wonderfully vivid images and set pieces within the fae world that make this a very memorable take on well-trod ground.

What I really loved is the feeling of hope that pervades the book even during its darkest moments. A celebration of the power of love, loyalty, sacrifice, family, I think this book will appeal to readers who want to be uplifted even while they experience the vicarious thrill of a well-written dark fantasy read.

(Note that I was provided with an advanced reading copy of this novel by the publisher.)

[Eve W · Rating 5 out of 5]

Those Beneath was a captivating read and wonderful story of perseverance, conviction in one’s beliefs, sacrifice, and the power of supportive loved ones. The characters were beautifully written and brought to life. I absolutely adored Veil, Dara, Aileen and so many of the other characters. It was one of those books, I simply could not put down. I’m secretly hoping some of the supporting characters get their own books, partly because I want to more about them and partly because I wasn’t ready to say goodbye. This book will satisfy fans of mythology and lore and provides wonderful insight into Irish Folklore, a specific genre I had little familiarity with. This book is enthusiastically recommended.

I will be on the lookout for more from this author and will be anxiously awaiting her next book!

#darkfantasy #romance #irishfolklore #ya #youngadultbooks #suspense #puca #fae #marrows #changeling #bloodlust #sacrifice #labirynth #hiddenworld #drawsyouin

[D. A. Power · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author has really captured this flavor and world of Irish folklore and myth so well, it's like it all really exists! Her prose is rich and beautiful, yet easy to understand and flows well. Something I really also liked was the artwork inside the book. Gave a lovely, extra visual appeal. The MC, Veil, was a lovely, strong, kind one. And oh, the McGraths are the family everyone should have. I love how the author depicts such healthy, loving relationships in the family unit, especially with Aileen and Liam. I just finished this book, and I highly recommend this for anyone who likes Irish mythology and folklore.

[Justin Cooper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Those Beneath transports you directly into a beautiful world the author has created. From the fantastical world of the sidhe to the simple beauty of Ireland, you practically feel yourself getting lost right next to the deep and relatable characters.
Veil will win your heart over with her wonderful purity and the humor built in as she learns of the human world she's been thrust into.
Sometimes family is who chooses you instead of what you're born into. Sometimes it becomes both.
A fun read that leaves you with both a sense of closure and a hope that more is still to come possibly.

[Liz · Rating 3 out of 5]

First off, this is the first mostly fantasy with some romance book I've read in a long time. I'm more into dark romance. But with that being said, I enjoyed this book. She wrote it beautifully, it was breathtaking of the places she described in the book. The different realms each had special things about them. It had some dark moments.
I wished there was a little more of romance? Kellan and Veil..I wished there was more of them loving each other. When it happened it was sweet. I just wished there was more of that.
All of the characters in the book had meaning. It didn't feel like questions werent answered. I'm probably going to try to read more fantasy books in the future. Because this book introduced me to them.

[Riley Cross · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great blend of myths and modern times colliding. The story really does kick off with mystery and a thriller beginning, before turning to the slow burn of romance with dark fairy dust sprinkled in between.

While this isn’t my usual sort of read, it was Able to keep my attention from page one all the way through the end. Great read!

[Almedia Ryan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yes, I am the author and this is my debut. As is a theme within Those Beneath, I know it’s not perfect BUT it is real and comes from a genuine place 🖤 I wouldn’t change a thing. There’s a lot of me in this story. I hope it is enjoyed and warms readers from the inside out. Oh and remember, be careful in the woods 😉

[Jordynn Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

💕ARC Review💕

This book is so beautifully written and so very descriptive! My only flaw I saw was I took me awhile to totally connect with the book. BUT I will say I absolutely LOVED the ending! Such a perfect ending to the tale!

[Jordyn Spears · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was very well written! I enjoyed the story line and the folklore of Ireland. This book was written by a past teacher of mine and I 100% want to see more from her in the future! Highly recommend!!