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Mythwoven #1
Wings Once Cursed & Bound
My wings unbound, I am the Thai bird princess
The kinnaree
And no matter the cost,
I will be free.
Bennet Andrews represents a secret organization of supernatural beings dedicated to locating and acquiring mythical objects, tucking them safely away where they cannot harm the human race. When he meets Peeraphan Rahttana, it's too late—she has already stepped into The Red Shoes, trapped by their curse to dance to her death.
But Bennet isn't the only supernatural looking for deadly artifacts. And when the shoes don't seem to harm Peeraphan, he realizes that he'll have to save her from the likes of creatures she never knew existed. Bennett sweeps Peeraphan into a world of myth and power far beyond anything she ever imagined. There, she finds that magic exists in places she never dreamed—including deep within herself.
The kinnaree
And no matter the cost,
I will be free.
Bennet Andrews represents a secret organization of supernatural beings dedicated to locating and acquiring mythical objects, tucking them safely away where they cannot harm the human race. When he meets Peeraphan Rahttana, it's too late—she has already stepped into The Red Shoes, trapped by their curse to dance to her death.
But Bennet isn't the only supernatural looking for deadly artifacts. And when the shoes don't seem to harm Peeraphan, he realizes that he'll have to save her from the likes of creatures she never knew existed. Bennett sweeps Peeraphan into a world of myth and power far beyond anything she ever imagined. There, she finds that magic exists in places she never dreamed—including deep within herself.
352 pages, Paperback
First published April 11, 2023
128 people are currently reading
11867 people want to read
About the author
Piper J. Drake
32 books620 followersPiper J. Drake is a bestselling author of romantic suspense and edgy contemporary romance, a frequent flyer, and day job road warrior. She is often distracted by dogs, cupcakes, and random shenanigans.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 455 reviews
April 14, 2025
🐦.. What's gonna happen? ..
..When a Kinnaree is out of her world and enter Seattle.. 😁
Omg! This is problaby one of the most difficult review for me to do. Because.. even for me, it's quite hard to imagine a kinnaree would be blood sucken 🩸 by a western vampire. lol!
🦇 Suck blood! Suck Blood! Suck her blood!! *shrieeekkkk!!!*
And it's even hardddder! how I gonna represent this Asian/Thai mythology creature for everyone to see and understand it like me. Interestering, right? Hahahaa WOW! 😮
This is refreshing Paranormal Romance..
Mannnnn!! 😆 HOW CAN THESE THAI MYTH STUFFS Fit in this western paranormal world?? I even tried to imagine. lol It's weird! It's funnyy! But it's curiously fun!! that made me giggle, giggle 🤭 like an idiot all the way through! b(^^D)d
** I just wish for more intense romance (I don't like insta-love much) and more character developments. Haha that's all. 😉 **
🐍 Noose of the Phayanak ..
What is this Thai myth artifact?
Don't open it until you read the book, first! It's SPOILERRR!!
To boost the fun!! 🤭 Convert with "The Dream Runners" my friends. These two books have the same Asian creatures (but just switch the prominent roles) Sound interesting, right?
So, if you prefer romantasy, read this first. But if you like slow-burn love, read that one. But my suggestion.. READ BOTH ARE BESTTT! They will introduce you the world of Asian myth and creatures that left you enjoyable to no end.
** For example "rishi" in "The Dream Runners" is the same person with "hermit" in this book. Hahahaha 🤣🤣 curious?
Well.. Adventure in "Himmaparn Forest" and explore this Asian fantasy world by yourself, I dare youuu! 😜
..When a Kinnaree is out of her world and enter Seattle.. 😁
Omg! This is problaby one of the most difficult review for me to do. Because.. even for me, it's quite hard to imagine a kinnaree would be blood sucken 🩸 by a western vampire. lol!
🦇 Suck blood! Suck Blood! Suck her blood!! *shrieeekkkk!!!*
And it's even hardddder! how I gonna represent this Asian/Thai mythology creature for everyone to see and understand it like me. Interestering, right? Hahahaa WOW! 😮
This is refreshing Paranormal Romance..
Mannnnn!! 😆 HOW CAN THESE THAI MYTH STUFFS Fit in this western paranormal world?? I even tried to imagine. lol It's weird! It's funnyy! But it's curiously fun!! that made me giggle, giggle 🤭 like an idiot all the way through! b(^^D)d
** I just wish for more intense romance (I don't like insta-love much) and more character developments. Haha that's all. 😉 **
🐍 Noose of the Phayanak ..
What is this Thai myth artifact?
Don't open it until you read the book, first! It's SPOILERRR!!
To boost the fun!! 🤭 Convert with "The Dream Runners" my friends. These two books have the same Asian creatures (but just switch the prominent roles) Sound interesting, right?
So, if you prefer romantasy, read this first. But if you like slow-burn love, read that one. But my suggestion.. READ BOTH ARE BESTTT! They will introduce you the world of Asian myth and creatures that left you enjoyable to no end.
** For example "rishi" in "The Dream Runners" is the same person with "hermit" in this book. Hahahaha 🤣🤣 curious?
Well.. Adventure in "Himmaparn Forest" and explore this Asian fantasy world by yourself, I dare youuu! 😜
October 4, 2023
Happy release day!
Thanks to Sourcebooks Casablanca for a copy of this before it comes out on April 11th. I found this a hot mess, but the world strangely endearing? So I'm rating it up to help hopefully get more books.
First things first - like my friend Meg noticed too, this book is being entirely mis-advertised. It is much more a diverse urban fantasy than the epic fantasy the marketing and cover are trying to suggest; comparing it to Maas and others' work is setting it up for failure, in my opinion, and its diversity and representation don't deserve that. The plot takes place over about 24 hours, within which: the main romantic pairing meet, Punch is introduced to the supernatural world, she's cursed and must find a solution, then the main pair get together, confessions of love and all. So. A lot happens in a little time. This author's wheelhouse appears to be fast-paced contemporary romantic suspense, and this read as that to me, only with supernatural beings and cool Thai lore, so I think people should adjust their expectations.
It's simultaneously enjoyable and not great, though. I could have done without the romance at all, as well as the POV changes (Marie and Thomas are super randomly added near the end?). The book would be improved if Bennett's POV were cut. The irony is that Punch calls out THOMAS for being patronizing, and also notes Francesco "mansplaining" away, when...Bennett does all of the above, a lot. Bennett also overrides Punch's physical autonomy several times, picking her up to carry her around; and like, usually I love a good bridal carry, but not when it hits unpleasantly like this did every time. He doesn't ask her consent most times, either, and this bothered me especially because the girl is already under the influence of cursed shoes that compel her to move, so there's that pre-existing lack of free will going on. Other than that, Bennett is a fairly [boring] typical vampire archetype, dark and brooding. The only cool thing was his blood-reading powers; when he feeds from people, the 'notes' in their blood, like those in wine, show their character and past deeds.
It felt like there were missed opportunities; exploring the vulnerabilities of the vampires being "dead" during the day was one. The two main characters read as completely flat for me, the book being more plot-driven than anything requiring expansion of their personalities, I guess. Also, the main climax of the book is only half experienced by the reader, and then awkwardly like, recapped by the characters at dinner the next day? It was a hell of a narrative choice; in fact, I have to respect some of the gutsy choices made in this book. Punch has a pair of animal companions whom I won't spoil here that show up randomly and remain entertaining. There is a hilarious scene near the beginning where There Was Only One Electric Scooter, which I enjoyed, and also a sexy vampiric feeding scene near the beginning that was also well done.
Other good parts include Marie the witch, and Thomas the hot Thai werewolf. I hope further installments offer other characters' stories rather than more Punch or Bennett - the chemistry-laden scene featuring Marie and a couple of nine-tailed foxes was spicier than anything between the main pair in this book, for me. Ashke the tiny fae was hilarious, wanting a corgi steed. I liked the gang when they were together, the found family camaraderie and bonding over cultural cuisines was charming. The blending of global folklore, like the dancing red shoes brought into this, was cool.
Four stars and good luck to this book!
Thanks to Sourcebooks Casablanca for a copy of this before it comes out on April 11th. I found this a hot mess, but the world strangely endearing? So I'm rating it up to help hopefully get more books.
First things first - like my friend Meg noticed too, this book is being entirely mis-advertised. It is much more a diverse urban fantasy than the epic fantasy the marketing and cover are trying to suggest; comparing it to Maas and others' work is setting it up for failure, in my opinion, and its diversity and representation don't deserve that. The plot takes place over about 24 hours, within which: the main romantic pairing meet, Punch is introduced to the supernatural world, she's cursed and must find a solution, then the main pair get together, confessions of love and all. So. A lot happens in a little time. This author's wheelhouse appears to be fast-paced contemporary romantic suspense, and this read as that to me, only with supernatural beings and cool Thai lore, so I think people should adjust their expectations.
It's simultaneously enjoyable and not great, though. I could have done without the romance at all, as well as the POV changes (Marie and Thomas are super randomly added near the end?). The book would be improved if Bennett's POV were cut. The irony is that Punch calls out THOMAS for being patronizing, and also notes Francesco "mansplaining" away, when...Bennett does all of the above, a lot. Bennett also overrides Punch's physical autonomy several times, picking her up to carry her around; and like, usually I love a good bridal carry, but not when it hits unpleasantly like this did every time. He doesn't ask her consent most times, either, and this bothered me especially because the girl is already under the influence of cursed shoes that compel her to move, so there's that pre-existing lack of free will going on. Other than that, Bennett is a fairly [boring] typical vampire archetype, dark and brooding. The only cool thing was his blood-reading powers; when he feeds from people, the 'notes' in their blood, like those in wine, show their character and past deeds.
It felt like there were missed opportunities; exploring the vulnerabilities of the vampires being "dead" during the day was one. The two main characters read as completely flat for me, the book being more plot-driven than anything requiring expansion of their personalities, I guess. Also, the main climax of the book is only half experienced by the reader, and then awkwardly like, recapped by the characters at dinner the next day? It was a hell of a narrative choice; in fact, I have to respect some of the gutsy choices made in this book. Punch has a pair of animal companions whom I won't spoil here that show up randomly and remain entertaining. There is a hilarious scene near the beginning where There Was Only One Electric Scooter, which I enjoyed, and also a sexy vampiric feeding scene near the beginning that was also well done.
Other good parts include Marie the witch, and Thomas the hot Thai werewolf. I hope further installments offer other characters' stories rather than more Punch or Bennett - the chemistry-laden scene featuring Marie and a couple of nine-tailed foxes was spicier than anything between the main pair in this book, for me. Ashke the tiny fae was hilarious, wanting a corgi steed. I liked the gang when they were together, the found family camaraderie and bonding over cultural cuisines was charming. The blending of global folklore, like the dancing red shoes brought into this, was cool.
Four stars and good luck to this book!
March 9, 2023
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Genre: Fantasy
Wings Once Cursed and Bound is an interesting fantasy book that mixes Thai mythology with fairy tales and paranormal romance. It is the first book in the Mythwoven series. The story follows Peeraphan, a Thai bird princess who lives in Seattle, hiding her wings and magic from the world. Peeraphan is cursed by magical red shoes, a pair of cursed artifacts that force the wearer to dance until they die. She meets Bennet, a vampire who works for a secret organization that collects objects of myth and magic. He tries to help her break the curse and protect her from other supernatural enemies.
The story is narrated from multiple points of view in the third-person narration style. This is more like an urban fantasy with a magical world, so expect many creatures like vampires, werewolves, fairies, dragons, etc. I’m not aware of Thai folklore and myths, but I think the story has a lot of that. However, the red shoe curse seems to be a fairy tale from one of Hans Christian Andersen’s stories.
In my opinion, this is a good first book that lays a solid foundation for the series. The author has done an excellent job of including a wide range of different characters in the narrative. The primary protagonists are likable characters in their own right. I think the author should spend more pages building the world itself, preferably by giving it a clear structure. I would much rather read more pages about how the characters interact with one another and how the world works in this narrative than about how relaxing a bath was for the heroine. These are the little, insignificant scenes that made the pacing feel somehow off to me. I feel fewer of these scenes and more world-building would make a huge difference. Maybe the second book will have more surprises. I’m interested to see where the author will take this story.
Genre: Fantasy
Wings Once Cursed and Bound is an interesting fantasy book that mixes Thai mythology with fairy tales and paranormal romance. It is the first book in the Mythwoven series. The story follows Peeraphan, a Thai bird princess who lives in Seattle, hiding her wings and magic from the world. Peeraphan is cursed by magical red shoes, a pair of cursed artifacts that force the wearer to dance until they die. She meets Bennet, a vampire who works for a secret organization that collects objects of myth and magic. He tries to help her break the curse and protect her from other supernatural enemies.
The story is narrated from multiple points of view in the third-person narration style. This is more like an urban fantasy with a magical world, so expect many creatures like vampires, werewolves, fairies, dragons, etc. I’m not aware of Thai folklore and myths, but I think the story has a lot of that. However, the red shoe curse seems to be a fairy tale from one of Hans Christian Andersen’s stories.
In my opinion, this is a good first book that lays a solid foundation for the series. The author has done an excellent job of including a wide range of different characters in the narrative. The primary protagonists are likable characters in their own right. I think the author should spend more pages building the world itself, preferably by giving it a clear structure. I would much rather read more pages about how the characters interact with one another and how the world works in this narrative than about how relaxing a bath was for the heroine. These are the little, insignificant scenes that made the pacing feel somehow off to me. I feel fewer of these scenes and more world-building would make a huge difference. Maybe the second book will have more surprises. I’m interested to see where the author will take this story.
April 17, 2023
Wings Once Cursed & Bound by Piper J Blake
Mythwoven series book 1. Fantasy. New adult. Retelling.
Perraphan (sounded like Peter or Pita Pan), aka Punch, grew up in a non-magical world. Everything changes when she’s encouraged to put on a pair of red shoes at a dance rehearsal and a vampire gets there too late to stop her. Now the shoes won’t come off and the vampire, a werewolf and other creatures are helping her figure out different options that may break the curse. And Punch finds that not only has the external world revealed itself, but that changes are internal as well. She is not human, but kinnaree.
The curse of the red shoes is a fable told in many different cultures. In this story, the wearer will be forced to dance past exhaustion until death. Punch and her new friends try different methods to remove the shoes and ask their acquaintances for any other options they may be aware of that could help.
Self analysis, acceptance, friendships, and truth are key in this fantasy. Perraphan will grow and evolve as will her new companions through this adventure, or curse, of the red shoes.
I enjoyed this fable, or fantasy. It will be interesting to see what the organization that seeks these supposedly mythological items finds next.
Mythwoven series book 1. Fantasy. New adult. Retelling.
Perraphan (sounded like Peter or Pita Pan), aka Punch, grew up in a non-magical world. Everything changes when she’s encouraged to put on a pair of red shoes at a dance rehearsal and a vampire gets there too late to stop her. Now the shoes won’t come off and the vampire, a werewolf and other creatures are helping her figure out different options that may break the curse. And Punch finds that not only has the external world revealed itself, but that changes are internal as well. She is not human, but kinnaree.
The curse of the red shoes is a fable told in many different cultures. In this story, the wearer will be forced to dance past exhaustion until death. Punch and her new friends try different methods to remove the shoes and ask their acquaintances for any other options they may be aware of that could help.
Self analysis, acceptance, friendships, and truth are key in this fantasy. Perraphan will grow and evolve as will her new companions through this adventure, or curse, of the red shoes.
I enjoyed this fable, or fantasy. It will be interesting to see what the organization that seeks these supposedly mythological items finds next.
Want to read
December 22, 2023Got this in my bookish box. This book is gorgeous!
Can wait to read
Can wait to read
January 14, 2023
Wanted to love it and there were parts of it I did, but it couldn’t compare to my 5 star Sarah J Maas or Jennifer Armentrout and for that I was bummed.
The concept is 10/10. I read a lot of fantasy romance and haven’t come across the Thai Bird Princess, aka Kinaree.
As I read this book, there were parts that were great, but there were also parts where it felt like scenes weren’t fully fleshed out. It felt like stuff hopped from one thing to the next without proper explanation, and while you could guess what happened (or didn’t), it definitely felt like the book was incomplete and these inconsistencies bothered me.
While there’s also some good principles in this book, they did feel a little amateurish. And maybe that’s just me. Perhaps others in the target audience need this messaging but I feel like it’s better suited for a younger audience, but with the romance it’s obviously geared towards adults so that’s conflicting.
There is a “to love again” trope, which I think was handled nicely.
I’d rate the smut like one red pepper. You get some spice at the end.
The concept is 10/10. I read a lot of fantasy romance and haven’t come across the Thai Bird Princess, aka Kinaree.
As I read this book, there were parts that were great, but there were also parts where it felt like scenes weren’t fully fleshed out. It felt like stuff hopped from one thing to the next without proper explanation, and while you could guess what happened (or didn’t), it definitely felt like the book was incomplete and these inconsistencies bothered me.
While there’s also some good principles in this book, they did feel a little amateurish. And maybe that’s just me. Perhaps others in the target audience need this messaging but I feel like it’s better suited for a younger audience, but with the romance it’s obviously geared towards adults so that’s conflicting.
There is a “to love again” trope, which I think was handled nicely.
I’d rate the smut like one red pepper. You get some spice at the end.
March 31, 2023
I was so excited for this book, and it really let me down.
From the description, there is so much to get interested in: We’re talking about Thai mythology, specifically kinnaree, which I’ve never heard of until now. The main character gets trapped into wearing a pair of red shoes that forces her to dance until she dies. There is talk about “a world of myth and power”, which makes me think this is going to be expansive.
There is literally nothing I liked about this book.
To begin with, there’s not really much about the kinnaree themselves. Even after reading, I can’t really describe what a kinnaree is. A person with wings on their hips? None of the characters really find out about kinnaree beyond some basics the main character already knows about, leaving readers confused on what is going on.
The writing is also very awkward when characters talk to each other, reminding me a lot of roleplay chatlogs where RPers would bounce back and forth between topics until they were having multiple discussions within the same post. Details a character should already know about, such as the color of the red shoes, are pointed out unnecessarily in conversation, despite everyone knowing the shoes are red.
I didn’t understand the point of the main character’s pet sugar gliders, which appear every so often throughout the book. They have no plot relevance. If they were completely deleted from the story, the book wouldn’t suffer. They were just… there.
I also didn’t enjoy the “romance” that developed between Peeraphan and Bennett, our two main characters. There was a lot of instant attraction and obsession here, which made it feel creepy. There was nothing really talking about why they were attracted to each other (except maybe Bennett pointing out that Peeraphan is “mature for her age”? Gross.), and I honestly considered putting this book down and never returning every single time we swiveled our focus to their relationship.
I never skim or skip sections as I read, but I had to once the book began detailing sex scenes between Peeraphan and Bennett. Simply because of lack of care, I knew I had to get through those sections as fast as I could. But one detail jumped out at me in the very first sex scene, where Peeraphan describes Bennett’s penis as “fully erect and beyond epic.”
If I wasn’t two chapters away from the ending, I would have DNFed there. The idea of describing someone’s dick as “epic”, a word I only really hear said excitedly by young boys talking about whatever they find cool at that moment, had me putting the book down for two hours. Peeraphan is a grown woman in a sexual situation, and the only descriptor she could think of was “epic”?
It was such a small thing, but it was truly the last straw for me.
I usually try to find something nice to say about a book, as I understand other readers may have different tastes than me and I want to make sure readers are excited for the books they want to read, but I can’t with this book.
From the description, there is so much to get interested in: We’re talking about Thai mythology, specifically kinnaree, which I’ve never heard of until now. The main character gets trapped into wearing a pair of red shoes that forces her to dance until she dies. There is talk about “a world of myth and power”, which makes me think this is going to be expansive.
There is literally nothing I liked about this book.
To begin with, there’s not really much about the kinnaree themselves. Even after reading, I can’t really describe what a kinnaree is. A person with wings on their hips? None of the characters really find out about kinnaree beyond some basics the main character already knows about, leaving readers confused on what is going on.
The writing is also very awkward when characters talk to each other, reminding me a lot of roleplay chatlogs where RPers would bounce back and forth between topics until they were having multiple discussions within the same post. Details a character should already know about, such as the color of the red shoes, are pointed out unnecessarily in conversation, despite everyone knowing the shoes are red.
I didn’t understand the point of the main character’s pet sugar gliders, which appear every so often throughout the book. They have no plot relevance. If they were completely deleted from the story, the book wouldn’t suffer. They were just… there.
I also didn’t enjoy the “romance” that developed between Peeraphan and Bennett, our two main characters. There was a lot of instant attraction and obsession here, which made it feel creepy. There was nothing really talking about why they were attracted to each other (except maybe Bennett pointing out that Peeraphan is “mature for her age”? Gross.), and I honestly considered putting this book down and never returning every single time we swiveled our focus to their relationship.
I never skim or skip sections as I read, but I had to once the book began detailing sex scenes between Peeraphan and Bennett. Simply because of lack of care, I knew I had to get through those sections as fast as I could. But one detail jumped out at me in the very first sex scene, where Peeraphan describes Bennett’s penis as “fully erect and beyond epic.”
If I wasn’t two chapters away from the ending, I would have DNFed there. The idea of describing someone’s dick as “epic”, a word I only really hear said excitedly by young boys talking about whatever they find cool at that moment, had me putting the book down for two hours. Peeraphan is a grown woman in a sexual situation, and the only descriptor she could think of was “epic”?
It was such a small thing, but it was truly the last straw for me.
I usually try to find something nice to say about a book, as I understand other readers may have different tastes than me and I want to make sure readers are excited for the books they want to read, but I can’t with this book.
April 5, 2023
This was a really fun new fantasy series featuring a kick ass magical/mythological heroine, a vampire hunting down mythological objects plus some other supernatural creatures. Set in a world where magical creatures walk around hidden from humans, this was full of memorable characters, had great Asian mythological references and was great on audio narrated by Cindy Kay. Written by a new to me author, I will eagerly await the next book in the series. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early audio copy in exchange for my honest review!
Steam level: SPICY!! (This is not a PG, YA read friends!! Much more on par with Sarah J Maas and I was here for it!!)
Steam level: SPICY!! (This is not a PG, YA read friends!! Much more on par with Sarah J Maas and I was here for it!!)
May 8, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
- I loved the Southeast Asian mythology woven into the story! I do wish we got to know more about the Kinnaree. That part was very interesting, but unfortunately we weren’t given a lot of information about it.
- The book started off fast-paced which instantly drew me into the story, but the rest kind of fell flat. I did enjoy the worldbuilding aspect of it.
- I wasn’t the biggest fan of the book being told in third person, but I did like the multiple POVs.
- I didn’t really connect with the MMC, Bennett. He just seemed… bland. I loved Punch tho! She was feisty.
- This book read more like a YA fantasy book than an adult paranormal book. There was a bit of romance and spice toward the end, but it felt rushed. Overall, their relationship just felt a little forced and insta-love.
*Thank you to Sourcebooks Casablanca for sending me a copy of this book.
- I loved the Southeast Asian mythology woven into the story! I do wish we got to know more about the Kinnaree. That part was very interesting, but unfortunately we weren’t given a lot of information about it.
- The book started off fast-paced which instantly drew me into the story, but the rest kind of fell flat. I did enjoy the worldbuilding aspect of it.
- I wasn’t the biggest fan of the book being told in third person, but I did like the multiple POVs.
- I didn’t really connect with the MMC, Bennett. He just seemed… bland. I loved Punch tho! She was feisty.
- This book read more like a YA fantasy book than an adult paranormal book. There was a bit of romance and spice toward the end, but it felt rushed. Overall, their relationship just felt a little forced and insta-love.
*Thank you to Sourcebooks Casablanca for sending me a copy of this book.
April 1, 2023
2.5
While I loved the concept of this book, the writing style kept me from fully enjoying it. I felt like there was too much “telling” me what and how to think and feel rather than being fully immersed. I did enjoy the story although, and I may still pick up the next book when it’s available.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an eARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
While I loved the concept of this book, the writing style kept me from fully enjoying it. I felt like there was too much “telling” me what and how to think and feel rather than being fully immersed. I did enjoy the story although, and I may still pick up the next book when it’s available.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an eARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
January 2, 2025
Bullseye on first read of the year. Super fun romantasy spicier version of twlight. And I don’t know why it was a surprise to me she had wings given the title and the cover but… I was shocked lol. The magic deadly shoes was an interesting touch. Loved the part total honesty played and that the main character credited work in therapy helping her with a task. Oh my god the wine tasting bit with blood was hilarious. Very well done. Can’t wait to read next one.
April 12, 2023
First off, I have no idea what is going on with that marketing. This is a straight up paranormal romance, urban fantasy set in Seattle. It’s also the most refreshing vampire and werewolf book I’ve read in a long time.
Peeraphan is getting ready to resume rehearsing for a community dance recital when an acquaintance offers her a beautiful pair of red dance shoes. Enthralled by them, she can’t help but put them on – and ignore the niggling sense of disquiet she’d felt a few minutes before. Unbeknownst to her, she’s now become involved in a power struggle between two groups of supernatural beings: one who wishes to locate and safely store magical artifacts, and one who wishes to sell them to the highest bidder. Both expect her to now be cursed to dance until she collapses, except that’s not what happens because Peeraphan has a secret of her own. And for someone who for so long has been the only supernatural being among humans, suddenly being embroiled in their world – even with a deadly curse hanging over her head – may be what she’s been waiting her life for.
The book is told in the third person and from multiple POVs, but the most common one was Peeraphan’s. A child of Thai immigrants, very little is known about her own kind, the kinnaree, even by her own family, and it reminded me of real life issues faced by diaspora kids. Peeraphan’s also acutely aware of how different she is. I felt her frustration, her need to prove herself independent from her family, how even as a child she preferred to hide away and read rather than spend time with them. But while that could make her bitter, instead she’s left yearning to fit in somewhere. Which means that once she encounters Bennet and the rest of his organization, well, let’s just say they’re not getting rid of her easily.
Despite, ya know, having a pair of really awesome MURDEROUS shoes stuck on her feet, she still exhibits a child-like wonder and excitement about each new supernatural experience, whether that’s flying or meeting a sidhe or commenting on how vampire’s fangs work. And that last one – there were so many times I wanted to yell “Girl, PRIORITIES” at Peeraphan, but rather than being frustrated I was honestly amused. Another usual source of frustration – the insta-lust between the main characters – was also assuaged by the humor. Peeraphan herself comments on how quickly she’s falling for Bennet, frequently reminds herself not to make “Too Stupid to Live” heroine mistakes, and generally seems to not take herself too seriously.
Refreshingly enough, everyone acts like grownups. All of Bennet’s colleagues accept Peeraphan and treat her with a sort of briskly efficient “well, let’s see how to solve your problem” with sympathy but no pity. It’s delightful found family goodness, though given the amount of characters introduced and the obvious focus on Peeraphan and Bennet, not enough of it. There’s no jealousy, no love triangles, none of that. The closest is Bennet and Thomas’ alpha grumpiness at each other, which Peeraphan hilariously pegged from the first minute. There’s some particularly adorable bonding over food.
Another thing I really liked is the blending of lots of folklore. While the red shoes are Western European, Peeraphan’s origins are obviously Thai, as is Thomas the werewolf. Marie the human witch is part Chinese and part Korean, there’s a sidhe butler, and some other southeast Asian-inspired creatures. There’s also a particularly ingenuous and thought-provoking take on how only a person “free from sin” could remove the red shoes. And overall the plot, if a bit predictable, is enjoyable enough that I basically read this in a few hours because I couldn’t put it down.
There are some places were the book goes off the rails and it’s obvious that Choices Were Made. Peeraphan literally calls Bennet out on his straight-from-the-movies “come with me if you want to live” introduction. She muses about comparisons to another book containing vampires and werewolves. There’s a scene where Peeraphan schleps a wounded Bennet through Seattle on an electric scooter. The book doesn’t take itself too seriously. The whole book is sort of relaxing, which is perhaps not the word you want applied to, you know, a book involving cursed magical artifacts and heists and possible death. It sometimes felt like a tonal mismatch, but on the whole I enjoyed the whimsy.
There are some giant plot holes, most of which can be hand-waved away, but the ending frustrated me. There were several bits of what seemed like very important information dropped by the villains. And then good guys don’t even mention in passing that they’re going to follow up those leads. I mean, it’s perfect sequel bait right at the end of the book! I really do hope there’s a bit more information about supernatural society in general in the next book.
Needless to say, I want more stories about magical artifact retrievals and can’t wait to see what happens next in this series (and if Marie happens to see a certain pair of kitsune again!).
I received an advance review copy of this book from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Peeraphan is getting ready to resume rehearsing for a community dance recital when an acquaintance offers her a beautiful pair of red dance shoes. Enthralled by them, she can’t help but put them on – and ignore the niggling sense of disquiet she’d felt a few minutes before. Unbeknownst to her, she’s now become involved in a power struggle between two groups of supernatural beings: one who wishes to locate and safely store magical artifacts, and one who wishes to sell them to the highest bidder. Both expect her to now be cursed to dance until she collapses, except that’s not what happens because Peeraphan has a secret of her own. And for someone who for so long has been the only supernatural being among humans, suddenly being embroiled in their world – even with a deadly curse hanging over her head – may be what she’s been waiting her life for.
“There are no hand-me-down notes for the self-taught diaspora, especially when one is a supernatural no one realized actually existed[.]”
The book is told in the third person and from multiple POVs, but the most common one was Peeraphan’s. A child of Thai immigrants, very little is known about her own kind, the kinnaree, even by her own family, and it reminded me of real life issues faced by diaspora kids. Peeraphan’s also acutely aware of how different she is. I felt her frustration, her need to prove herself independent from her family, how even as a child she preferred to hide away and read rather than spend time with them. But while that could make her bitter, instead she’s left yearning to fit in somewhere. Which means that once she encounters Bennet and the rest of his organization, well, let’s just say they’re not getting rid of her easily.
Despite, ya know, having a pair of really awesome MURDEROUS shoes stuck on her feet, she still exhibits a child-like wonder and excitement about each new supernatural experience, whether that’s flying or meeting a sidhe or commenting on how vampire’s fangs work. And that last one – there were so many times I wanted to yell “Girl, PRIORITIES” at Peeraphan, but rather than being frustrated I was honestly amused. Another usual source of frustration – the insta-lust between the main characters – was also assuaged by the humor. Peeraphan herself comments on how quickly she’s falling for Bennet, frequently reminds herself not to make “Too Stupid to Live” heroine mistakes, and generally seems to not take herself too seriously.
Refreshingly enough, everyone acts like grownups. All of Bennet’s colleagues accept Peeraphan and treat her with a sort of briskly efficient “well, let’s see how to solve your problem” with sympathy but no pity. It’s delightful found family goodness, though given the amount of characters introduced and the obvious focus on Peeraphan and Bennet, not enough of it. There’s no jealousy, no love triangles, none of that. The closest is Bennet and Thomas’ alpha grumpiness at each other, which Peeraphan hilariously pegged from the first minute. There’s some particularly adorable bonding over food.
Another thing I really liked is the blending of lots of folklore. While the red shoes are Western European, Peeraphan’s origins are obviously Thai, as is Thomas the werewolf. Marie the human witch is part Chinese and part Korean, there’s a sidhe butler, and some other southeast Asian-inspired creatures. There’s also a particularly ingenuous and thought-provoking take on how only a person “free from sin” could remove the red shoes. And overall the plot, if a bit predictable, is enjoyable enough that I basically read this in a few hours because I couldn’t put it down.
There are some places were the book goes off the rails and it’s obvious that Choices Were Made. Peeraphan literally calls Bennet out on his straight-from-the-movies “come with me if you want to live” introduction. She muses about comparisons to another book containing vampires and werewolves. There’s a scene where Peeraphan schleps a wounded Bennet through Seattle on an electric scooter. The book doesn’t take itself too seriously. The whole book is sort of relaxing, which is perhaps not the word you want applied to, you know, a book involving cursed magical artifacts and heists and possible death. It sometimes felt like a tonal mismatch, but on the whole I enjoyed the whimsy.
There are some giant plot holes, most of which can be hand-waved away, but the ending frustrated me. There were several bits of what seemed like very important information dropped by the villains. And then good guys don’t even mention in passing that they’re going to follow up those leads. I mean, it’s perfect sequel bait right at the end of the book! I really do hope there’s a bit more information about supernatural society in general in the next book.
Needless to say, I want more stories about magical artifact retrievals and can’t wait to see what happens next in this series (and if Marie happens to see a certain pair of kitsune again!).
I received an advance review copy of this book from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
July 18, 2023
This book had all the potential to be a five star book and then some.
It was a light read . The story in itself was there
But there was soooooo much more missing.
Where did all these artifacts come from .? How did they know about them? Can we get more depth in these organizations.? What happened to Bennett for him to make a deal with a dragon to create this organization aside his liver being human .? There are so many questions I can continue asking but I wish there was more in depth and details so I Can world build inside my mind this beautiful story and love it that much more .
It was a light read . The story in itself was there
But there was soooooo much more missing.
Where did all these artifacts come from .? How did they know about them? Can we get more depth in these organizations.? What happened to Bennett for him to make a deal with a dragon to create this organization aside his liver being human .? There are so many questions I can continue asking but I wish there was more in depth and details so I Can world build inside my mind this beautiful story and love it that much more .
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 9, 2023
A secret organization of super natural beings is guarding the humans by collecting the magical objects and restraining them far away from human reach. But one day when, they are a little late and the mischevious red shoes are already slipped on.!
A magical tale that brings to us an urban fantasy set-up making things novel but in a modern world. The variety of mythical creatures included in this world makes the series quite interesting. There is also a side stream of Rmantasy flowing in here between a Vampire and Fairy. I liked almost all the parts of the book except the steamy romance scenes. I would have liked it more if some things were left just for the reader's imagination to be filled.
Thanks @netalley @piperjdrake @dreamscape_media for the Digital ARC
Genre: #fantasy #romance
Rating: 4/5 ⭐️
A magical tale that brings to us an urban fantasy set-up making things novel but in a modern world. The variety of mythical creatures included in this world makes the series quite interesting. There is also a side stream of Rmantasy flowing in here between a Vampire and Fairy. I liked almost all the parts of the book except the steamy romance scenes. I would have liked it more if some things were left just for the reader's imagination to be filled.
Thanks @netalley @piperjdrake @dreamscape_media for the Digital ARC
Genre: #fantasy #romance
Rating: 4/5 ⭐️
April 11, 2023
Peeraphan (Punch) is a dancer who is not quite human. She can sense when Bennett, who isn't breathing walks into her dance hall while she is practicing. While at practice Punch is shown a red pair of dance shoes that had been donated and she just happens to try them on first, feeling the pull to put them on. Bennett was also there for the shoes but he got there too late, Punch already had the shoes on. The red shoes are a cursed, magical object and he was sent there to retrieve them. They compel the wearer to put them on and dance until they die from exhaustion.
So Bennett was waiting there now to see if she would die and then he would take the shoes before anyone else could touch them and make sure they were locked away. Once a human puts the shoes on, they almost always killed them. So when the dancers stopped for a break, he fully expected Punch to keep dancing or at the very least to not be able to keep her feet still. So when she sat down and didn't look the least little bit compelled to move, he was shocked to say the least. The fact that Punch kept glancing in his direction and knew he was there when no one should be able to notice him since he was a vampire and was hiding in the shadows, just made her even more of a curiosity. He knew she must be some sort of supernatural but couldn't figure out what.
When another non-human shows up at her rehearsal that also wants the shoes the danger spikes. Francesco is the other non-human, a vampire who knows Bennett and they fight. Francesco works for another faction but he wants to red shoes for bad purposes, which puts Punch in danger. But she sees that Bennett is hurt pretty bad and helps him get to one of his teammates, Duncan. They take her to an island where his home is and where she'll be safe.
Bennett works for the Darke Consortium and so do his teammates. The Darke Consortium locates and retrieves objects of myth, magical objects and they put them in sanctuaries around the world for safe keeping. In the home they all stay at, there's also a werewolf named Thomas, as well as Duncan and some other supernaturals and they are all part of the Darke Consortium.
Punch is a mythical Kinnaree, a bird person. Her people must be very rare since Bennett being a very old vampire doesn't know anything about them. When they find out what Punch will have to do in order to get the shoes off and where she'll have to go, they need the help of a witch to get there. All the while Punch and Bennett are getting to know one another better and end up getting closer. I liked their romance and how Bennett was wary of getting into a relationship because of his past and not wanting to be hurt again.
Punch also has two sugar gliders who were absolutely so cute in this book. I love it when animals are a big part of the story. This was definitely a fun read and I loved the secondary characters. I'm looking forward to reading more and getting to know then better.
Disclosure: I was given an e-ARC of this book via NetGalley but all thoughts and opinions are my own.
So Bennett was waiting there now to see if she would die and then he would take the shoes before anyone else could touch them and make sure they were locked away. Once a human puts the shoes on, they almost always killed them. So when the dancers stopped for a break, he fully expected Punch to keep dancing or at the very least to not be able to keep her feet still. So when she sat down and didn't look the least little bit compelled to move, he was shocked to say the least. The fact that Punch kept glancing in his direction and knew he was there when no one should be able to notice him since he was a vampire and was hiding in the shadows, just made her even more of a curiosity. He knew she must be some sort of supernatural but couldn't figure out what.
When another non-human shows up at her rehearsal that also wants the shoes the danger spikes. Francesco is the other non-human, a vampire who knows Bennett and they fight. Francesco works for another faction but he wants to red shoes for bad purposes, which puts Punch in danger. But she sees that Bennett is hurt pretty bad and helps him get to one of his teammates, Duncan. They take her to an island where his home is and where she'll be safe.
Bennett works for the Darke Consortium and so do his teammates. The Darke Consortium locates and retrieves objects of myth, magical objects and they put them in sanctuaries around the world for safe keeping. In the home they all stay at, there's also a werewolf named Thomas, as well as Duncan and some other supernaturals and they are all part of the Darke Consortium.
Punch is a mythical Kinnaree, a bird person. Her people must be very rare since Bennett being a very old vampire doesn't know anything about them. When they find out what Punch will have to do in order to get the shoes off and where she'll have to go, they need the help of a witch to get there. All the while Punch and Bennett are getting to know one another better and end up getting closer. I liked their romance and how Bennett was wary of getting into a relationship because of his past and not wanting to be hurt again.
Punch also has two sugar gliders who were absolutely so cute in this book. I love it when animals are a big part of the story. This was definitely a fun read and I loved the secondary characters. I'm looking forward to reading more and getting to know then better.
Disclosure: I was given an e-ARC of this book via NetGalley but all thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 17, 2023
While being a compellingly and interesting story, there was that initial connection and spark that was missing from the characters. A lot of the story seemed rushed and did not allow the reader to develop those initial connections. Even the characters' relationship with each other seemed impetuous.
December 20, 2024
I did like reading this book. It took me a bit to get hooked on the storytelling and the characters, but I did enjoy it very much. Piper's way to make sure the myths and legends of all the species involved is very spot on and I truly appreciate that she did the research. It was great. Normally I'm not one for a slow burn semi-spicy book I liked it for this story.
April 16, 2025
I made it through this book through sheer stubborn will. There was no banter, no chemistry, stilted conversations, and the spice was subpar. So many things left unsolved, should’ve dnfed to save myself the time and frustration.
Also is it possible to use American as an ethnicity? Ex: 1/2 American; 1/4 Korean, 1/4 Chinese? Hmmmm
Also is it possible to use American as an ethnicity? Ex: 1/2 American; 1/4 Korean, 1/4 Chinese? Hmmmm
Read
May 20, 2023i have mixed feelings.
March 23, 2024
1.5 rounded up.
March 27, 2023
Firstly, the marketing has done this book a massive disservice. “For fans of Sarah J Maas and Jennifer L Armentrout”? Absolutely not. Do not read this book of that’s what you’re looking for because they are in no way similar except that they all have elements of fantasy. They honestly aren’t even the same genre. ‘Wings Once Cursed & Bound’ has more in common with urban fantasy novels than “high” fantasy. There’s a huge tonal difference that readers who don’t read both, or don’t read more than one type of fantasy, are not going to like/understand. Because of that, more appropriate comparisons would be Ilona Andrews, Patricia Briggs or Laurell K Hamilton, maybe even Christine Feehan.
The first 10-15% was a bit confusing because I was expecting a lore heavy fantasy. Once I realized it was more urban fantasy, I started enjoying myself. The narrative choices, characterizations and plot structure made more sense. I love urban fantasy, it’s my preferred type of fantasy novel to read but it has specific hallmarks, like any genre and trying to make this book into anything but urban fantasy is abjectly wrong.
All that said, I really enjoyed this book! I loved the Thai mythology and the worldbuilding, I think it laid a perfect foundation for books to come. The romance was a bit cheesy at times but very sexy and full of chemistry. Peeraphan is a great main character, she knows enough to let the reader feel included but withholds just the right amount to keep us interested. The “bad guys” are ominous enough to actually be considered the villains but there’s a lot of room for development.
I’m going to read the next one, I’m so interested to see if it continues with Bennett and Peeraphan’s story or moves onto another couple and how that works within the overall plot.
Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
The first 10-15% was a bit confusing because I was expecting a lore heavy fantasy. Once I realized it was more urban fantasy, I started enjoying myself. The narrative choices, characterizations and plot structure made more sense. I love urban fantasy, it’s my preferred type of fantasy novel to read but it has specific hallmarks, like any genre and trying to make this book into anything but urban fantasy is abjectly wrong.
All that said, I really enjoyed this book! I loved the Thai mythology and the worldbuilding, I think it laid a perfect foundation for books to come. The romance was a bit cheesy at times but very sexy and full of chemistry. Peeraphan is a great main character, she knows enough to let the reader feel included but withholds just the right amount to keep us interested. The “bad guys” are ominous enough to actually be considered the villains but there’s a lot of room for development.
I’m going to read the next one, I’m so interested to see if it continues with Bennett and Peeraphan’s story or moves onto another couple and how that works within the overall plot.
Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 5, 2023
Wings Once Cursed and Bound by Piper J. Drake
4/5 Stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
•••Spoiler free review below•••
This was such an enjoyable and quick read! I have seen so much hype for Wings Once Cursed and Bound and I was thrilled to have the opportunity to listen to an advanced audio copy. Our narrator, Cindy Kay, is also one of my favorite narrators so that didn't hurt either.
While I did really like this one, I do feel like it may be a bit miss-marketed. This read is definitely an urban fantasy with magic woven into our character's everyday life. Peeraphan is a dancer located in Seattle. When she mistakenly puts on a pair of cursed shoes, she is ensnared into a world of supernatural creatures. Our story takes place over 24 hours and is filled with high stakes, suspense, and a bit of romance. I would have enjoyed learning more about the world and Peeraphan's abilities before being thrust into the conflict, but I do appreciate the enthralling way the plot moves forward.
Read this book if you like:
- urban fantasy reads
- Thai lore
- multi-POV stories
- romance as a main plot point
- VAMPIRES
- magic shoes
Wings Once Cursed and Bound will be released on April 11th and if it's not already on your tbr, it should be!
.
.
.
Special thanks to Dreamscape Media for sharing a free copy with me in exchange for my honest opinions.
Review on Instagram
4/5 Stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
•••Spoiler free review below•••
This was such an enjoyable and quick read! I have seen so much hype for Wings Once Cursed and Bound and I was thrilled to have the opportunity to listen to an advanced audio copy. Our narrator, Cindy Kay, is also one of my favorite narrators so that didn't hurt either.
While I did really like this one, I do feel like it may be a bit miss-marketed. This read is definitely an urban fantasy with magic woven into our character's everyday life. Peeraphan is a dancer located in Seattle. When she mistakenly puts on a pair of cursed shoes, she is ensnared into a world of supernatural creatures. Our story takes place over 24 hours and is filled with high stakes, suspense, and a bit of romance. I would have enjoyed learning more about the world and Peeraphan's abilities before being thrust into the conflict, but I do appreciate the enthralling way the plot moves forward.
Read this book if you like:
- urban fantasy reads
- Thai lore
- multi-POV stories
- romance as a main plot point
- VAMPIRES
- magic shoes
Wings Once Cursed and Bound will be released on April 11th and if it's not already on your tbr, it should be!
.
.
.
Special thanks to Dreamscape Media for sharing a free copy with me in exchange for my honest opinions.
Review on Instagram
May 10, 2023
3.85 🌟 / 5!
What a fun and captivating read!
Wings Once Cursed & Bound is a Thai folklore retelling about a girl named Peeraphan. When an old friend gifts her a pair of beautiful red shoes during a dance practice, she slips them on and it almost feels as if they were made just for her. There’s one big problem… the shoes won’t come off.
Bennet is a vampire, he belongs to a group who locates magical objects, and locks them away so they can’t be used for malicious purposes. When he discovers he’s too late to warn the shoe’s next victim, he teams up with Peeraphan to help her find a way to get them off… and hopefully keep her alive.
An urban fantasy folklore retelling.
This one felt like a mix between cinderella & the sookie stackhouse series. I really enjoyed the asian representation and diverse characters. Bennet & Punch are definitely Grumpy x Sunshine, and their character development was steady and smooth throughout the storyline.
Worth it if you enjoy urban adventures with a classic romance storyline & magical/mythical elements!
What a fun and captivating read!
Wings Once Cursed & Bound is a Thai folklore retelling about a girl named Peeraphan. When an old friend gifts her a pair of beautiful red shoes during a dance practice, she slips them on and it almost feels as if they were made just for her. There’s one big problem… the shoes won’t come off.
Bennet is a vampire, he belongs to a group who locates magical objects, and locks them away so they can’t be used for malicious purposes. When he discovers he’s too late to warn the shoe’s next victim, he teams up with Peeraphan to help her find a way to get them off… and hopefully keep her alive.
An urban fantasy folklore retelling.
This one felt like a mix between cinderella & the sookie stackhouse series. I really enjoyed the asian representation and diverse characters. Bennet & Punch are definitely Grumpy x Sunshine, and their character development was steady and smooth throughout the storyline.
Worth it if you enjoy urban adventures with a classic romance storyline & magical/mythical elements!
April 12, 2023
Sourcebooks was kind enough to send me a finished copy of this book so thank you Sourcebooks!
I was really excited for this and the blend of Thai and Southeast Asian mythology, but I felt like that mythology took a backseat in the story. I wanted to know more about the kinnaree and what that type of being is, but we only got a small glimpse of it. I would've liked this so much more if Peeraphan discovered more about being a kinnaree in this one instead of setting her up to find out more in future installments. I also wasn't that big of a fan of the romance in this. I just had a hard time believing it and thought it was a bit to insta love for me. I did enjoy all of the side characters and the plot line of having to save Peeraphan from these cursed dance shoes. The dance aspects of this were cool and I loved those parts.
I was really excited for this and the blend of Thai and Southeast Asian mythology, but I felt like that mythology took a backseat in the story. I wanted to know more about the kinnaree and what that type of being is, but we only got a small glimpse of it. I would've liked this so much more if Peeraphan discovered more about being a kinnaree in this one instead of setting her up to find out more in future installments. I also wasn't that big of a fan of the romance in this. I just had a hard time believing it and thought it was a bit to insta love for me. I did enjoy all of the side characters and the plot line of having to save Peeraphan from these cursed dance shoes. The dance aspects of this were cool and I loved those parts.
April 8, 2023
This was a cute little urban-fantasy romance, and while it's not a personal favorite I would still recommend picking it up if you want a more light-hearted, quick read. Punch and Bennett are brought together by a cursed pair of dancing shoes, attracted to each other right away. But Bennett is unsure of romance thanks to his past, while Punch just wants to get the shoes off. We meet a cast of other magical characters that all want to help save Punch, but only the truth can set her free. The only reason I didn't give the book five stars was because I could have used a little bit more fleshing out of everyone as a whole. The surface info was great, but I like my characters to have a little bit more going for them. I'll definitely pick up the second book based on who I think the second book is about. Can't wait to see more from this universe.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 10, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫3.5/5 stars
🌶️🌶️2/5 chilly peppers
Wings Once Cursed & Bound
Author: Piper J. Drake
Source: NetGalley
Pub Date: April 11th, 2023
Drake offers a fantastic fusion of urban fantasy and Thai mythology, delivering a fresh take on familiar tropes. With Bennet Andrews and Peeraphan Rahttana entangled in the curse of The Red Shoes, the story embarks on a journey that seamlessly blends ancient folklore with modern-day intrigue. As they race against time to save Peeraphan from the clutches of mythical artifacts, we are treated to a rich tapestry of Thai cultural elements woven into the narrative. Drake’s skillful incorporation of Thai mythos adds depth and authenticity to the story, offering a refreshing twist that excited me and I think will delight fans of both fantasy and folklore (and a little bit of spice). I will say my only dislike was it felt like it dragged a little at parts but it picked back up rather quick after!
🌸
I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own. Thank you to the publisher, Netgalley, and the author for the opportunity to read this novel.
🌸
#book #booklover #bookstagram
🌶️🌶️2/5 chilly peppers
Wings Once Cursed & Bound
Author: Piper J. Drake
Source: NetGalley
Pub Date: April 11th, 2023
Drake offers a fantastic fusion of urban fantasy and Thai mythology, delivering a fresh take on familiar tropes. With Bennet Andrews and Peeraphan Rahttana entangled in the curse of The Red Shoes, the story embarks on a journey that seamlessly blends ancient folklore with modern-day intrigue. As they race against time to save Peeraphan from the clutches of mythical artifacts, we are treated to a rich tapestry of Thai cultural elements woven into the narrative. Drake’s skillful incorporation of Thai mythos adds depth and authenticity to the story, offering a refreshing twist that excited me and I think will delight fans of both fantasy and folklore (and a little bit of spice). I will say my only dislike was it felt like it dragged a little at parts but it picked back up rather quick after!
🌸
I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own. Thank you to the publisher, Netgalley, and the author for the opportunity to read this novel.
🌸
#book #booklover #bookstagram
May 1, 2023
While I was unable to read this entire book before my eARC expired, I think I read enough to say that this is a fun, unique, romance. It dives into lots of different mythologies which I found really interesting. If you like paranormal romances then check this out!
ARC Provided by NetGalley
ARC Provided by NetGalley
May 1, 2023
This book is totally underrated! I highly enjoyed this read, and I think the blurb is very misleading. I wouldn't comp it to SJM and JLA like the it says, but maybe KF Breene or Ivy Asher. It's definitely an urban fantasy/paranormal romance which I loved because I can never get enough of vampire love interests. I might even go as far as to label this one cozy, as there's a ton of elements that fit the type with found family, fairytale objects, and supernatural characters of all types. It's multi-POV, and each character has a distinct tone of voice which I really appreciated. There's also a ton of sexual tension, and even a few really good spicy scenes. Overall, this book was such a pleasant surprise for me, and I'm looking forward to reading more of this series!
November 23, 2022
A wonderful start to a series that I am excited to read....the character develop & world building was fun and easy to follow. I especially loved the Thai mythology that was woven into this story....something that I have never come across in the (I must admit limited) fantasy that I have read. First time (in a long time) of reading a fantasy/romance book and I was surprised at how much I liked it. There was also some fairy tale woven into the plot that added to the overall story really well. Like I said, really excited to see where this series goes.
May 1, 2023
If you’re looking for a spicy fantasy romance, magical death shoes, found family and Thai mythology this is your book!! Also if sexy vampires are your thing this gives you all the lovely tropes. There’s also fae, werewolves, and witches who are all a part of a secret consortium dedicated to finding/confiscating harmful magical objects.
I loved this book so freaking much! It has everything I want in a good fantasy romance adventure. I cannot wait for the next book in this series which I’m hoping focuses on a witch and some very mischievous/hot fox fae. It’s giving the “why choose” trope and I am here for it!!
Do not sleep on this book!!!
I loved this book so freaking much! It has everything I want in a good fantasy romance adventure. I cannot wait for the next book in this series which I’m hoping focuses on a witch and some very mischievous/hot fox fae. It’s giving the “why choose” trope and I am here for it!!
Do not sleep on this book!!!
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