Within the Hollow Heart

Rivenwilde #2

by Melissa Wright

A hero in need of saving. A curse no kiss can break. The bargain that brings them together—and might bring down the kingdom.

Nickolas Brigham was meant to marry a princess. Everyone said so. His mother, mostly, but it wasn’t the time to quibble.

If he doesn't marry a woman of station soon, he’ll be tied to a fate worse than ruination. When he’s dragged bodily into a compromising situation, his only choice is to accept the aid of the doe-eyed damsel he chances upon in his attempt at escape.

But Jules is no meek maiden. She’s clever and quick, and has terms of her own: Nickolas must vow to break her curse before the fae prince comes to collect his due. Yes, only that, and the minor feat of fooling the kingdom by faking their betrothal.

Slow-burn and sweet kisses with properly stabby heroines—these regency inspired fantasy standalones are perfect for fans of Enchantment of Ravens and Little Thieves.

Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Audiobook, Young Adult, Romantasy, Fiction, Fae

171 pages, ebook

First published October 2, 2023

About the author

Melissa is the author of more than a dozen YA and fantasy novels including The Frey Saga and Between Ink and Shadows. When not writing she can generally be found talking with an author friend about a book, painting something from a book, or tucked between headphones listening to a book. It’s kind of a theme. She loves reasonable heroines in unreasonable situations, noble--if brooding--heroes, slow burn and sweet kisses, a lot of havoc, and a little magic. Stay updated on works in progress at Instagram. Contact her through the web at www.melissa-wright.com

For info on contests and new releases, sign up for the newsletter here: https://bit.ly/2VDuwn1

Reviews

[vita ౨ৎ (semi ia) · Rating 3 out of 5]

✹ 𝐩𝐫𝐞-𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 ໒꒱ ˚₊

i loved the first book sooo much and oh gosh look at this cover?!! super pretty 🥹🪻i’m so excited to read nickolas and jules story!!! i feel like this series is gonna be my new obsession 💌

➹ trilogy rating.ᐟ
𝐢. beyond the filigree wall [ 4.25 ⭑ ]
𝐢𝐢. within the hollow heart
𝐢𝐢𝐢. upon the riven throne

[jacky (paperbxcks) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bookstagram | BookTok | Twitter

"You realize, my lady, that you're meant to merely swoon, not examine the promises made by a suitor."
"Even once we are betrothed?"
His expression went grave. "Especially then."
"I'll take it under consideration."
"I think it's in the vows." He paused. "You shouldn't examine those either."

I had so much fun reading this, it was so cute!! Within the Hollow Heart is a regency-inspired fantasy romance that's like Bridgerton meets Howl's Moving Castle with quirky characters and laugh-out-lout-funny moments.

Nickolas Brigham is about to be forcibly married off to a noble lady by his mother to re-fill the family's coffers. Kidnapped and put into a compromising situation, Nickolas flees by swan-diving off a balcony and runs into a lady willign to help him. The not-so-innocent maiden in question, Jude, agrees to help Nickolas out of his predicament by becoming engaged to him, if Nickolas helps her break a Faerie curse that was put on her. Thus begins a race againt time as Jules and Nickolas struggle to keep up the ruse of being engaged while finding a way to break the curse.

Every little aspect of this book spoke to me, on like, a spiritual level. It had the regency-setting of Bridgerton mixed with some fairytale elements like enchanted princes and faerie curses, topped with the most loveable characters I have ever read about. Nickolas and Jules reminded me a little of Howl and Sophie from Howl's Moving Castle, in the sense that he's a little conceited and foppish and she's not that impressed by him. As for the plot, it read like a historical romance but with some fantasy and court intrigue. I won't say too much about the fairytale elements, but the story ended up being a twist on one of my favourite fairytales from my childhood, so that was like an extra treat for me.

The romance here was really sweet, I was honest to god giggling and kicking my feet while reading this. Moreover, I loved the entire cast of characters, but especially Nickolas. In the beginning, he came across like a charming, yet foolish dandy-type character, but the more you got to know his character, the more his caring side grew on you. Choosing Nickolas to be the narrator of the story was honestly the perfect choice, 1) because he is incredibly funny and ridiculous, 2) the way he wants to impress Jules and get her to like him is really cute and 3) it kept an air of mystery around Jules, which is usually reserved for male love interests in fantasy romance.

The quirkyness of the characters and the witty dialogue drew me in almost immediately, but who really stole the show for me was Frederick, Jules' grumpy pet bird that she brings almost everywhere. I never thought I would read about a main character beefing with a bird, but here we go. Etta, the protagonist from the first book set in the same world, also appeared here and I immediately fell in love with her character, so I will be picking up the first book ASAP. However, this is a standalone, and you don't have to read the first book in the series to understand the plot of this one. I did have a really good time with this book and I will be running to get the special edition.

So charming, so whimsical, so fairytale-esque, I can't praise this book enough. My only complaint is I wish it had been longer so I could spend more time with the characters. 5/5 stars.

[Mia · Rating 3 out of 5]

The covers for this series are so pretty, and stories are so cute. I wish they were longer.

[Christina Baehr]

This was a hoot. It did not feel quite as polished to me as the first in the series (the third act felt a tad rushed to me?), and it’s lighter in tone, but once again the screwball comedy tickled me and reminded me of 1930s rom coms. I loved the unexpected tribute to one of my favourite fairy tales (which I won’t spoil). I also love the way the fairy plots and conspiracies get foiled by lawyers and civil servants who know the law inside out in both books in the series so far. I’m looking forward to seeing the icy fae prince get his ultimate comeuppance in the next book, which is coming out soon.

I’d recommend to readers who liked the bubbly side of WHAT COMES OF ATTENDING THE COMMONERS BALL.

[katayoun Masoodi · Rating 3 out of 5]

fun, quick, easy read

[Bibliothecat · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a cute continuation from Beyond the Filigree Wall - although they are set out as standalones in the same world, I do think they read much better together given that it does build up and there are nods to another continuation yet to come. For better or for worse, what I enjoyed in the previous instalment was even better in Within the Hollow Heart, but the same goes for its weaknesses.

I really liked that we Nickolas' point of view. Not only are male point of views less common in this genre, I like being able to have some insight and better understanding of characters who've left somewhat of a negative first impression. Not to say that Nickolas isn't likeable in the first book - he absolutely is - but we get to see more sides of him that show he is more than just a frivolous flirt. I also generally liked the set up and banter, the prose was also well done. This also unexpectedly turned out to be a fairy tale retelling - I wasn't aware it was going to be one and now I wonder whether the first book was also one and I just missed what it was based on?

On the downside, though, I still feel that certain elements of this world and story aren't explained well enough. One example would be the ring - Jules carries one with her which is often hinted to throughout the book and it does end up becoming important. But we never really find out how it got into her possession and what its properties are. The biggest downside for me though was the romance. Nickolas and Jules make a cute couple and I did want them to end up together, but I felt like there was very little build up and I just didn't feel anything develop between them. There was a bit more from Nickolas' side as we see it from his point of view, but there isn't really any moment that shows when and why Jules starts liking him too. I had a similar issue when reading Beyond the Filigree Wall - I think the author writes sweet scenes between the couples but there's a lack of build up to that point. I do think this is something that can still improve in later volumes.

Although it is a shame that the romance doesn't really have that spark I am looking for, it is still a cute and generally well-crafted world. I would still recommend this to people who like short and cosy fantasies within the gaslamp fantasy genre (because honestly, there aren't enough [good] ones out there and the banter and mannerism in this one is spot on).

[mith · Rating 3 out of 5]

These are cute! Very short and enjoyable. I felt everything tied up a little too easily though.

[Toya (thereadingchemist) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book, and I felt like I was transported into this world of family secrets, betrayal, and a threatening magical fae curse.

Right off the bat, I loved Jules and her wit, quick thinking, and string will. After stumbling upon Nickolas after his mother is trying to force him to marry someone against his will, she steps in with a plan of her own…unfortunately, it involves fae royalty.

For a such a quick read, I fell I love with the world building and characters. I wanted to protect Nickolas and Jules at all costs. I honestly wanted to yeet Nickolas’ mother into a volcano, and I still do. That woman was horrid.

If you’re looking for a quick, immersive fantasy read filled with adventure and a slow burn romance then this one is for you!

Thank you to the author for providing a gifted copy. This did not influence my review. All opinions are my own.

[Morgan Giesbrecht · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️

Excuse me?! That was adorable.

I loved this instalment more than the first one! 😍 It’s rare to get a fantasy story with only the MMC’s POV, but Nicklaus is a hilarious narrator—especially when he’s unwillingly shoved into a desperate situation. And we love a man smitten. 🤭 Jules and her clever wit are Nicklaus’s perfect match.

The world building and magic felt much more understandable and flashed out with plenty of fast paced moments and situational comedy.

I mean, fae bargains and curses, twisty deceptions, fake engagements, hidden identity, a nod to “The Wild Swans” fairytale, and evading maliciously matchmaking mothers—such a riot! So stinkin’ cute!! 🥰


Content: a man is tied to a woman’s bedpost to try and trap him in a compromising situation but he escapes; man clamours over a statue of an undressed woman on a horse while escaping the above situation, apologizing embarrassed when he grabbed her breast; a couple cute kisses

[Cheri McKenzie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book! I love Nickolas and they were adorable. I just wish these stories were longer, please Melissa, make them longer!!!!

[Sofia · Rating 4 out of 5]

way more fun than the first book

[Meigan · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a delight this was! A regency-era fae fantasy with romance, the story starts out with Nickolas finding himself in a bit of a pickle, thanks to his meddling mother. While getting out of said jam, he stumbles upon Jules, who is also in a bit of a predicament of her own. Together they decide the best way to solve each of their respective problems is to pretend to be betrothed. The toughest part is going to be convincing the kingdom and their families that this is truly real.

This story was such a gem. I loved the mystery surrounding Jules, her bird, and her backstory, and I loved slowly getting clues about why she needs a fake engagement and what her ties to the fae are. I also loved sweet Nickolas and how devoted he becomes to Jules, despite their engagement being of the fake sort.

This was a quick, short read that was filled with emotion, heart, and lovable characters. This is my first book by this author, and I will most certainly be devouring her backlist in the near future.

*Many thanks to MTMC Tours and the author for gifting a copy of the book as part of an Instagram tour.

[Kriti Dalmia · Rating 4 out of 5]

This regency historical fiction blended with fantasy has a hero who needs to be saved, a cursed heroine, and a bird with an attitude.

Nickolas Brigham, meant to marry a princess, must marry soon to avoid ruin. He must escape a compromising situation with the help of a clever damsel, Jules, who must break her curse before the prince collects his dues. They fake their betrothal to fool everyone, and thus begins the journey to finding a way.

The plot was intriguing, filled with twists to surprise you. With its amazing cast, witty dialogue, and writing, this book had me smiling and engaged. Nickolas was funny, charming, and trying his best to impress Jules. Jules, on the other hand, was being mysterious, with her bird Frederick being grumpy and always glaring at Nickolas.

If you are looking for a quick, captivating, slow-burn romance story, add this to your TBR. It can be read as a standalone book.

Thank you @bookofmatchesmedia for providing with the arc.

[Rachel Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really loved reading this sweet historical/fantasy romance, featuring an endearing idiot falling in love with a mysterious and strong female heroine. And a grumpy bird!

This is a great standalone in the same world of Melissa’s previous book, but you can definitely jump into this one first! The characters from the previous book are in this one, too, which was a nice surprise.
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It features a trope I love - fake engagement. And I LOVE a himbo/idiot in love, and that’s definitely the energy that Nickolas gives. I adored him, and I hated that he grew up in such an unloving home. I enjoyed the mystery with Jules as Nickolas has to figure out what’s going on. This is a quick read and you won’t want to put this one down.

I received a copy from the author for an instagram tour. My thoughts are my own.

[Adriana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Within the Hollow Heart was a really cute short book. I didn't know anything about the plot before reading so the magical aspect with the fae was a surprise. There's a curse on Jules that she needs help breaking. While Nicholas is seen as this charmer who is being blackmailed and has many debts thanks to his conniving mother. Nicholas was always so sweet to Jules. They both worked together perfectly. Since this was such a short story I didn't feel like I was able to get into the fae storyline. I also wished there was more written about the side characters. Otherwise, this was a sweet, fast read.

[Nadeen · Rating 3 out of 5]

So adorable and sweet, I love these idiots.
These books are so much fun but also so confusing and way too short.
This fake dating, marriage of convenience, regency-like era with fae story was so endearing and predictable. Very cozy and exactly what I wanted but didn’t sweep me off my feet.

The romance in this one definitely started quicker than the first book which I liked because the first one dragged a bit in the start. I loved the story and the relationship. Alas, if only this didn’t feel like a short story and instead like a full fantasy novel, I probably would have LOVED it.

Nickolas and Jules my babies. If you want a quick read that will renew your hopeless romantic feelings, then this is perfect. Just pretend to understand all the talk about curses. (For incentive, there is fun banter and a scene where she falls asleep on him)

[readwithemilygrace · Rating 4 out of 5]

Okay, but I LOVED this book 🥰 it is a standalone set in the same world as book 1 and it definitely is readable without that knowledge because I haven’t had the chance to read …. and I didn’t feel lost or like I was missing any details! The characters in this were so compelling, making this a super quick read, which I really enjoyed!! This was one of the sweetest regency romances I’ve read, Nickolas and Jules were so quirky and cute ✨

Read if you love:

- fake engagement
- historical romance
- fantasy
- slow-burn
- fun side characters

[kenzie ♡ · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is hands down, Melissa's best work yet. I loved Nickolas the first moment he was mentioned in Beyond The Filigree Wall but this book made me obsessed with him, and Jules of course. If you enjoy fake engagements, the MMC being obsessed with the FMC in the best (and sweetest) way and masked balls set in a world reminiscent of Jane Austen with some fae bargains thrown in, then you'll surely love this book.

[Shahista Swellam · Rating 4 out of 5]

“It is my pledge to you now, this day, beneath the sun of a fine Westrende sky, fair Jules who has yet to reveal to me her surname, that your given name, at least, will never fade from my memory, for I will etch it on the very walls of my heart.”

[Audrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I would go with more like 4.5 stars just because I didn't feel as strongly about this one compared to the first one BUT IT WAS STILL SUPER GOOD AND SOOO SWEET 😢😢😢 I LOVE THIS SERIES SMMM PLEASE RELEASE THE THIRD ONE GIRLL

[beca · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5*

esse aqui foi um pouquinho melhor que o outro, o casal era mais interessante e tudo mais, porém honestamente continua sendo um livro que daqui a um dia não vou lembrar do que aconteceu.

[Kelly Virens · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cute little read and happy to see familiar faces along with new ones. Excited for the next one.

[Hannah Manandhar Zwahlen · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is as cozy as it gets! Cute humor! You felt like you were plunged into the story and not a lot of details were answered, but still a good no-thinking read.

[Lydia Hess · Rating 3 out of 5]

lowkey just reading this series for the drama lol.

[Madeline · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just as cute as book 1! A bummer my library doesn’t have the final book in the series.

[Mia · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5

[Suraya · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think they're so cute but the book gave me almost nothing I NEEDED it to be longer :(

[lisa · Rating 2 out of 5]

it was sweet experience, don't get me wrong. however, i couldn't connect to the characters at all and it kinda felt chaotic for me. i'm a girlie who chooses her books by its cover which is stunning. regardless, if you asked me who i could recommend it, i would say my little sister xx

[wistora ⋆˚࿔ · Rating 5 out of 5]

★ 4.5 stars

[Caitlyn (delightful.reading) · Rating 4 out of 5]

"I'll go willingly. But I want it known that this is not a kidnapping. To be clear, I will be voluntarily climbing into that sack."

This was a cute, sweet quick read! Nickolas has found himself in the center of his mother's plots to see him wed quite a few times. After escaping the latest attempt, he finds himself temporarily engaged to Jules, a woman with a grumpy bird and more than her fair share of secrets.

I loved Nickolas and Jules! They were just so fun together! Also I need to read the first book in this series of standalones because I need more of Nickolas's disasters (and desperately want to know some more context for a few of his "why does this always happen to me?" remarks)

This is the perfect read if you're looking for a short & sweet idiots to lovers tale featuring some fake dating shenanigans.

Plus, there's a special edition with illustrations and other swag available: https://thesignedbookshop.com/product...

All in all, this was a great read! Many thanks to the author and BOMM tours for the eARC!