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Rose & Moth Duet #1
A Flower's Fatal Thorn
The forest is rotting.
Róis, a young human with life magic coursing through her veins, discovers that her destiny is entwined with the ailing heart of the rotting woodland. Determined to unravel the mysteries behind the forest's demise, she ventures into the depths to seek its cure.
Neferíl, queen of the Unseelie faerie court, is adorned in shadows and intrigue. She is destined to kill the human girl with life magic in her blood. However, as they reluctantly join forces, an unforeseen bond begins to blossom between them. Together, they must embark on a perilous quest to reach the Eldertree where the elusive Forest Father resides—a god rumored to hold the power to heal the forest.
As Róis and Neferíl navigate the treacherous journey through the twisted roots and dark secrets of Elvira, their hearts become entangled in the forbidden romance, defying the very destiny that seeks to tear them apart. Will they unlock the secrets of the Sacred Grove in time to save the rotting forest, or will the shadows of fate consume them both in a tragic dance of love and destiny?
Róis, a young human with life magic coursing through her veins, discovers that her destiny is entwined with the ailing heart of the rotting woodland. Determined to unravel the mysteries behind the forest's demise, she ventures into the depths to seek its cure.
Neferíl, queen of the Unseelie faerie court, is adorned in shadows and intrigue. She is destined to kill the human girl with life magic in her blood. However, as they reluctantly join forces, an unforeseen bond begins to blossom between them. Together, they must embark on a perilous quest to reach the Eldertree where the elusive Forest Father resides—a god rumored to hold the power to heal the forest.
As Róis and Neferíl navigate the treacherous journey through the twisted roots and dark secrets of Elvira, their hearts become entangled in the forbidden romance, defying the very destiny that seeks to tear them apart. Will they unlock the secrets of the Sacred Grove in time to save the rotting forest, or will the shadows of fate consume them both in a tragic dance of love and destiny?
Unknown Binding
First published November 4, 2024
14 people are currently reading
572 people want to read
About the author
Jordan Dugdale
12 books123 followersFantasy author under various sub-genres. I love writing morally grey heroes, complex character romances, and found families while elevating lgbtqia voices
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
December 19, 2024
2 incredible FMCs and true to folklore fae?? SAY LESS.
I want more IMMEDIATELY.
I want more IMMEDIATELY.
June 26, 2025
2 Stars
I gave it a good go. I read 55% of the book. The plot holes were just too many and too wide to sidestep and ignore. I understand that it’s a hectic storyline, new characters introduced, new scenarios form, but there’s just too much happening and not enough foundation. It’s like having a cupcake size base with a wedding cake amount of icing. All the frosting is nice and sweet and all but you need a base for it to stand on and balance out the sweetness when you consume it. Yes, the main characters had roots, however, after Rois goes in the forest it’s just transient character after character being introduced without proper development.
It’s a really interesting core story though. Just needs a bit more grounding and editing, I reckon.
I gave it a good go. I read 55% of the book. The plot holes were just too many and too wide to sidestep and ignore. I understand that it’s a hectic storyline, new characters introduced, new scenarios form, but there’s just too much happening and not enough foundation. It’s like having a cupcake size base with a wedding cake amount of icing. All the frosting is nice and sweet and all but you need a base for it to stand on and balance out the sweetness when you consume it. Yes, the main characters had roots, however, after Rois goes in the forest it’s just transient character after character being introduced without proper development.
It’s a really interesting core story though. Just needs a bit more grounding and editing, I reckon.
October 31, 2024
Whoa what a journey this book takes you on. My first YA and I truly enjoyed it. The bakcstory and how the human and fae realms intertwine gripped my attention quickly and kept it. I will say that yes two FMCs made this book very empowering to the multitudes of emotions an FMC can go through What I loved the most was the messages of perspective, understanding and seeing beyond self that captivated me. I did particularly love a special small, apple loving character because of his personality and whit about him. He has my heart and I would want him as a best friend.
I was honored as an ARC for this book and I am so grateful to have been able to read this beauty ♡
✨️📚✨️
I was honored as an ARC for this book and I am so grateful to have been able to read this beauty ♡
✨️📚✨️
October 22, 2024
Thank you to Jordan for sending me the Arc in exchange for an honest review!
I enjoyed this for the most part! Two reluctant allies that are forced to work together because they have the same end goal, but at the demise of the other. I loved that there was a diverse cast of characters and a sapphic romance. I really liked how the fae were lore accurate and untrustworthy/tricksters. The story was also pretty unique.
However, I did have some issues that docked the rating a bit. This was a high stakes, fast paced story and I can appreciate that, but I felt like the character and world building took a hit because of it. I felt like we were only able to get to the surface level of the characters/world and it kind of made it hard for me to care about any of the characters. I would have also enjoyed if the characters had a bit more time to sit down and get to know one another to kind of build the relationship and loyalty between them. But the story moved so fast and everything was high stakes so they spent the majority of their time running and fighting.
I was really looking forward to the slow burn romance in this. Slow burn is my absolute favorite trope. But, once again, because the story moved so fast the relationship between Róis and Neferil kind of jumped from being enemies for more than half of the book to them kissing with no real build up. I think I would have preferred if the romance didn’t officially start until book two, that way in this book they could’ve established attraction/chemistry organically between one another.
I did enjoy the ending (the betrayal was shocking because I wasn’t expecting it)! I’m interested and seeing where the story goes in book two.
I enjoyed this for the most part! Two reluctant allies that are forced to work together because they have the same end goal, but at the demise of the other. I loved that there was a diverse cast of characters and a sapphic romance. I really liked how the fae were lore accurate and untrustworthy/tricksters. The story was also pretty unique.
However, I did have some issues that docked the rating a bit. This was a high stakes, fast paced story and I can appreciate that, but I felt like the character and world building took a hit because of it. I felt like we were only able to get to the surface level of the characters/world and it kind of made it hard for me to care about any of the characters. I would have also enjoyed if the characters had a bit more time to sit down and get to know one another to kind of build the relationship and loyalty between them. But the story moved so fast and everything was high stakes so they spent the majority of their time running and fighting.
I was really looking forward to the slow burn romance in this. Slow burn is my absolute favorite trope. But, once again, because the story moved so fast the relationship between Róis and Neferil kind of jumped from being enemies for more than half of the book to them kissing with no real build up. I think I would have preferred if the romance didn’t officially start until book two, that way in this book they could’ve established attraction/chemistry organically between one another.
I did enjoy the ending (the betrayal was shocking because I wasn’t expecting it)! I’m interested and seeing where the story goes in book two.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 3, 2024
I loved how this had 2 strong FMC'S, both battling to save their people, and all the emotional turmoil that came with it. I loved the enemy to lover tension too with this sapphic romance, and their stabbyness towards each other.
It's a dark and gripping adventure to find the source of the rot plaguing their lands and how to stop it, and finding allies to help their quest along the way.
It had great vivid descriptions of the lands and the darkness spreading, and I like the unique magic twists.
The mix of druids, Fae, God's, and seers was creative, and had strong themes including sacrifice and cycles of nature.
While this story gives some answers it leaves you with plenty more to discover in the next book.
🗡️ "If anyone has a chance of being swallowed by the forest and spat back out, it's you"
🗡️"I can taste your fear, little thorn"
🗡️"I had survived this long and through worse. If I had to tear this place apart to escape, so be it"
🗡️"I was a moth to the flames, and the fires of passion swirled around me, burning away all rational thought"
It's a dark and gripping adventure to find the source of the rot plaguing their lands and how to stop it, and finding allies to help their quest along the way.
It had great vivid descriptions of the lands and the darkness spreading, and I like the unique magic twists.
The mix of druids, Fae, God's, and seers was creative, and had strong themes including sacrifice and cycles of nature.
While this story gives some answers it leaves you with plenty more to discover in the next book.
🗡️ "If anyone has a chance of being swallowed by the forest and spat back out, it's you"
🗡️"I can taste your fear, little thorn"
🗡️"I had survived this long and through worse. If I had to tear this place apart to escape, so be it"
🗡️"I was a moth to the flames, and the fires of passion swirled around me, burning away all rational thought"
November 15, 2024
I'm a huge fan of Jordan's writing and this book feels so different and unique as compared to the Misfits series. I absolutely loved it!
December 22, 2024
This was an interesting read. I probably could have devoured it in one sitting if I had less things going on the past couple of months. I liked the fae courts, and the characters all felt very diverse. Looking forward to part two!
November 6, 2024
Rating: 3.5 Stars
A Flower's Fatal Thorns is a beautifully unique story that, despite a few hiccups, truly captivated me from the very beginning. The premise drew me in immediately—Róis, a young human girl with life magic in her blood, must save a dying forest, all while navigating her complicated destiny and her unexpected bond with Neferíl, the dark queen of the Unseelie faerie court. What starts as a seemingly impossible alliance quickly turns into a slow-burn romance, filled with danger, magic, and complex emotions.
The plot is fast-paced, and Dugdale certainly knows how to keep you hooked. The story never slows down, always throwing something new and exciting at the reader—whether it's a dangerous encounter, a new revelation, or a plot twist that you didn’t see coming. I found myself staying up late, unable to stop reading, eager to see how Róis and Neferíl would navigate the rotting forest and the dark magic that threatens to consume it. The tension between them, the stakes of the journey, and the mystery surrounding the Eldertree all kept me engaged, and I truly wanted to know how it all would unfold.
That said, the speed of the plot does come with its drawbacks. The story moves so quickly that it sometimes feels like the characters—particularly Róis and Neferíl—aren't given the time they deserve to fully develop. I loved both of them, but there were moments when I wished I could have spent more time in their heads, seeing the depth of their emotions and struggles. Róis, with her life magic, and Neferíl, with her shadowed past, are both compelling characters, but the rapid pace didn’t leave space for their inner worlds to fully blossom.
The romance, which could have been a powerful, slow-burn connection, also suffered a little because of this. It felt rushed at times, and I didn’t always get to savor the emotional buildup between the two. There’s so much potential for a truly heart-wrenching, forbidden love story, but the pace of the plot sometimes overshadowed those quieter, intimate moments that could have made their bond feel even more profound.
I also couldn’t help but feel like the world-building, while rich with potential, didn’t fully come to life the way I hoped. The forest, the faerie courts, the magical systems—they all had so much promise, but because the plot was so focused on action and progression, the world felt a little underexplored. I found myself wanting more details, more time to immerse myself in the atmosphere of Elvira and understand the magic that governed it.
In the end, A Flower's Fatal Thorns is a book that I really enjoyed, even if it didn’t fully hit all the marks for me. The action, the romance, and the stakes are all thrilling, but I do wish the story had taken a little more time to breathe, allowing the characters and world to fully unfold. If you enjoy fast-paced fantasy with intriguing characters and a touch of romance, you’ll likely love this book. Just be prepared to finish it quickly, wishing you had a bit more time to savor the journey.
A Flower's Fatal Thorns is a beautifully unique story that, despite a few hiccups, truly captivated me from the very beginning. The premise drew me in immediately—Róis, a young human girl with life magic in her blood, must save a dying forest, all while navigating her complicated destiny and her unexpected bond with Neferíl, the dark queen of the Unseelie faerie court. What starts as a seemingly impossible alliance quickly turns into a slow-burn romance, filled with danger, magic, and complex emotions.
The plot is fast-paced, and Dugdale certainly knows how to keep you hooked. The story never slows down, always throwing something new and exciting at the reader—whether it's a dangerous encounter, a new revelation, or a plot twist that you didn’t see coming. I found myself staying up late, unable to stop reading, eager to see how Róis and Neferíl would navigate the rotting forest and the dark magic that threatens to consume it. The tension between them, the stakes of the journey, and the mystery surrounding the Eldertree all kept me engaged, and I truly wanted to know how it all would unfold.
That said, the speed of the plot does come with its drawbacks. The story moves so quickly that it sometimes feels like the characters—particularly Róis and Neferíl—aren't given the time they deserve to fully develop. I loved both of them, but there were moments when I wished I could have spent more time in their heads, seeing the depth of their emotions and struggles. Róis, with her life magic, and Neferíl, with her shadowed past, are both compelling characters, but the rapid pace didn’t leave space for their inner worlds to fully blossom.
The romance, which could have been a powerful, slow-burn connection, also suffered a little because of this. It felt rushed at times, and I didn’t always get to savor the emotional buildup between the two. There’s so much potential for a truly heart-wrenching, forbidden love story, but the pace of the plot sometimes overshadowed those quieter, intimate moments that could have made their bond feel even more profound.
I also couldn’t help but feel like the world-building, while rich with potential, didn’t fully come to life the way I hoped. The forest, the faerie courts, the magical systems—they all had so much promise, but because the plot was so focused on action and progression, the world felt a little underexplored. I found myself wanting more details, more time to immerse myself in the atmosphere of Elvira and understand the magic that governed it.
In the end, A Flower's Fatal Thorns is a book that I really enjoyed, even if it didn’t fully hit all the marks for me. The action, the romance, and the stakes are all thrilling, but I do wish the story had taken a little more time to breathe, allowing the characters and world to fully unfold. If you enjoy fast-paced fantasy with intriguing characters and a touch of romance, you’ll likely love this book. Just be prepared to finish it quickly, wishing you had a bit more time to savor the journey.
November 7, 2024
A Flower’s Fatal Thorn is the first of Jordan Dugdale’s thrilling Rose and Moth duology. Set in a brand new world where the everything that lingers in the forest is rotting away, falling victim to the sickness that has consumed them. Two women, raised to fear and loathe each other, are both willing to do whatever it takes to protect their people—even willing to go as far as dying in the process.
What a remarkable read, filled with nonstop action and thrilling adventures that have their own twists and turns. This is supposedly based off of some Celtic mythology so I was beyond excited to read AFFT and Dugdale did not disappoint. I had loved reading the lore of her new world as she carefully unraveled the strings of the story, her worlds compelling me to stay until the very last page.
With that being said, it felt as though there were somethings missing, crucial to the story. Like Róis’ mysterious and strange magic and Neferíl’s backstory, both of which I felt were explained well enough but lacked the full details to show while they are as a whole and in depth. My hope is that all of the things that will be explained further in the sequel (as well as that shocking ending; it wasn’t really cliffhanger ending, but the events before had me go ‘well, shhit how are they going to solve that one?’).
For me personally, I had loved the enemies turned to forced alliances turned to lovers romance. While there was mostly action-packed adventures during their quests, I’d felt that Dugdale has managed to slowly brew a romance between our two badass female characters. I hope they blossom into something more in the next book.
A Flower’s Fatal Thorn is a wonderfully written story that has captured my attention nonstop and I didn’t want it to end. I cannot wait for the sequel.
𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐤 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐭𝐨 𝐉𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐚𝐧 𝐃𝐮𝐠𝐝𝐚𝐥𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐞𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐜𝐨𝐩𝐲! 𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 𝐢𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐲 𝐦𝐲 𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐡𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐨𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐧.
What a remarkable read, filled with nonstop action and thrilling adventures that have their own twists and turns. This is supposedly based off of some Celtic mythology so I was beyond excited to read AFFT and Dugdale did not disappoint. I had loved reading the lore of her new world as she carefully unraveled the strings of the story, her worlds compelling me to stay until the very last page.
With that being said, it felt as though there were somethings missing, crucial to the story. Like Róis’ mysterious and strange magic and Neferíl’s backstory, both of which I felt were explained well enough but lacked the full details to show while they are as a whole and in depth. My hope is that all of the things that will be explained further in the sequel (as well as that shocking ending; it wasn’t really cliffhanger ending, but the events before had me go ‘well, shhit how are they going to solve that one?’).
For me personally, I had loved the enemies turned to forced alliances turned to lovers romance. While there was mostly action-packed adventures during their quests, I’d felt that Dugdale has managed to slowly brew a romance between our two badass female characters. I hope they blossom into something more in the next book.
A Flower’s Fatal Thorn is a wonderfully written story that has captured my attention nonstop and I didn’t want it to end. I cannot wait for the sequel.
𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐤 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐭𝐨 𝐉𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐚𝐧 𝐃𝐮𝐠𝐝𝐚𝐥𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐞𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐜𝐨𝐩𝐲! 𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 𝐢𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐲 𝐦𝐲 𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐡𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐨𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐧.
November 3, 2024
‘“I can see how some are so easily swayed by its temptations to give themselves over to it."’
A Flower’s Fatal Thorn is a dark fantasy novel that is filled with body horror, two disgruntled enemies working together, and a bit of sapphic romance.
The author’s description of the rot in just the first few chapters tells you what kind of story this is going to be. Both Róis and Neferíl do what they think they must to save those they care about while battling something grotesque. The fantasy aspect and the many different faeries, druids, and other creatures create a rich world within which the book. It’s a fast-paced adventure with trials and tribulations for each main character.
While I have much to praise, there were some disappointing letdowns. The book moves rather quickly, which leaves little time to sit with the two main characters. I struggled to tell the difference between the two POVs at least a few times. A strange mystery appears, and it seems like the characters don’t have much personality beyond their main goals.
Nonetheless, I am interested in reading the second half of this duology and can’t wait to see how the story and characters evolve. If you’re interested in dark fantasy, enemies-to-lovers, and faeries accurate to folklore, this is the book for you.
A Flower’s Fatal Thorn is a dark fantasy novel that is filled with body horror, two disgruntled enemies working together, and a bit of sapphic romance.
The author’s description of the rot in just the first few chapters tells you what kind of story this is going to be. Both Róis and Neferíl do what they think they must to save those they care about while battling something grotesque. The fantasy aspect and the many different faeries, druids, and other creatures create a rich world within which the book. It’s a fast-paced adventure with trials and tribulations for each main character.
While I have much to praise, there were some disappointing letdowns. The book moves rather quickly, which leaves little time to sit with the two main characters. I struggled to tell the difference between the two POVs at least a few times. A strange mystery appears, and it seems like the characters don’t have much personality beyond their main goals.
Nonetheless, I am interested in reading the second half of this duology and can’t wait to see how the story and characters evolve. If you’re interested in dark fantasy, enemies-to-lovers, and faeries accurate to folklore, this is the book for you.
November 9, 2024
This is a no spice, fantasy story that kept me wondering and thinking, theorizing honestly. This book was very fast-paced, and not once did it slow down. Jordan Dugdale knows how to keep your interest as you read because just when you think it might slow down, it just gets faster and even more twisty.
.
.
This story follows our main character, Rois, who lost her mother and sister at a young age. She grows up learning to fight. All that fighting paid off when she finally goes on her first quest. During her quest, we met some amazing companions that helped change the course of the current world in hopes of a better one.
.
.
Rois is stubborn, strong, caring, and determined to see her quest through. Rois grew up believing the fae were evil, that they were the ones who stole children and lured people to it's forsets depths. But not everything is always as it seems.
.
.
Queen Neferil is the queen of the Unseelie court. She is proud, determined, and will do anything to protect her people, no matter what it costs. Soon, she learns just how steep the costs can become. This Queen has always been taught that humans were the problem, always hurting and destroying forest life. Will the queen be able to open her eyes to the truth? Find out when you read your copy!
.
.
This story follows our main character, Rois, who lost her mother and sister at a young age. She grows up learning to fight. All that fighting paid off when she finally goes on her first quest. During her quest, we met some amazing companions that helped change the course of the current world in hopes of a better one.
.
.
Rois is stubborn, strong, caring, and determined to see her quest through. Rois grew up believing the fae were evil, that they were the ones who stole children and lured people to it's forsets depths. But not everything is always as it seems.
.
.
Queen Neferil is the queen of the Unseelie court. She is proud, determined, and will do anything to protect her people, no matter what it costs. Soon, she learns just how steep the costs can become. This Queen has always been taught that humans were the problem, always hurting and destroying forest life. Will the queen be able to open her eyes to the truth? Find out when you read your copy!
November 11, 2024
A Flower’s Fatal Thorn is the first book in the Rose & Moth Duology.
The forest is rotting taking lives with it, human and fae. A human girl, Róis, is determined to unalive the Unseelie Faerie Queen whom she thinks is responsible and stop the rot. The Faerie Queen, Neferíl, is determined to find and unalive the human girl who, according to the prophecy, has life blood that can heal the forest.
This book has two badass FMCs that are determined to do anything to save their people. The world building and characters are great! I absolutely loved the loyal side characters!! Especially the cutesy, witty, loyal, apple loving goblin. I knew from the beginning that there would be some major plot twists and I was right!
This book is a NA dark fantasy romance with very mild spice. It’s a sapphic enemies to lovers with forced proximity, betrayal, a dual POV, and unique magic. It has dark fantasy forest vibes with blood and gore.
I enjoyed this book very much and definitely recommend it for all the NA dark fantasy lovers! I can’t wait to read the next book in this duology!
🥀A Flower’s Fatal Thorn is available now on Amazon and KU!
Thank you to the author, Jordan Dugdale, for gifting me the eARC in exchange for my honest review 🖤
The forest is rotting taking lives with it, human and fae. A human girl, Róis, is determined to unalive the Unseelie Faerie Queen whom she thinks is responsible and stop the rot. The Faerie Queen, Neferíl, is determined to find and unalive the human girl who, according to the prophecy, has life blood that can heal the forest.
This book has two badass FMCs that are determined to do anything to save their people. The world building and characters are great! I absolutely loved the loyal side characters!! Especially the cutesy, witty, loyal, apple loving goblin. I knew from the beginning that there would be some major plot twists and I was right!
This book is a NA dark fantasy romance with very mild spice. It’s a sapphic enemies to lovers with forced proximity, betrayal, a dual POV, and unique magic. It has dark fantasy forest vibes with blood and gore.
I enjoyed this book very much and definitely recommend it for all the NA dark fantasy lovers! I can’t wait to read the next book in this duology!
🥀A Flower’s Fatal Thorn is available now on Amazon and KU!
Thank you to the author, Jordan Dugdale, for gifting me the eARC in exchange for my honest review 🖤
March 26, 2025
A Flower’s Fatal Thorn was a unique, fast-paced story filled with fae, druids, seers, gods, humans, and two fantastic FMC’s in Róis and Neferíl. The world Dugdale crafted really drew me in and kept me hooked. I loved how she pulled from mythology, that the fae weren’t limited to their glamoured forms, and we got to experience more lore-accurate faeries. Róis was an intriguing character whose life and magic were veiled in mystery. I loved her unending bravery and willingness to do whatever it takes to protect those she cares about, and ultimately do what the world itself truly needs, even if it means setting her life aside to do it. Neferíl was an excellent pair to Róis and a driven, deeply emotional character in her own right. As equally willing as Róis to do whatever it takes to save the forest and her people. I enjoyed the slow-burn romance between the two, and watching them slowly learn to trust and care for one another when they’d spent their entire lives fearing and hating one another's species. I also adored the apple-loving side character Olbi and hope he continues to tag along with our FMC’s in the sequel. Looking forward to the continuation of this series and Róis and Neferíl’s adventures!
October 7, 2024
Where do I even start? This is the first book I’ve read by Jordan Dugdale and I was lucky enough to be on the ARC list! I was quickly entrapped in this book. I started and finished it in one day! The world building was detailed and magical, the characters were likeable even through their faults and the twists and turns surprised me to no end! I thought I pictured the ending of this but man was I wrong! I love a good detailed book that can surprise me and this one definitely did. The ending feels like everything is going to be okay and then ends on a massive cliffhanger that makes me want to get my hands on the next book asap! Of course it’s not out yet 😂 but man I will be the first to buy it when it comes out! I’m excited to find new authors that spark my interest and will be starting the Whispered Tales series next! If you are a lover of ACOTOR, Game of Thrones or fantasy in general I would highly recommend!
November 24, 2024
Amazing from start to finish! The story's unique blend of romantic fantasy, a little bit of horror/mystery, and Celtic mythology creates a magical experience that feels like it never lets up for a second. The nods to ancient myths and legends are woven seamlessly into the plot, adding an extra layer of enchantment that fantasy lovers will appreciate.
Róis and Neferil's relationship stands out with its depth and intensity, perfectly balanced to complement the main plot without overshadowing it. Their chemistry has a nice forced proximity/slow burn element and I just loved feeling their relationship grow throughout the book.
A Flower's Fatal Thorns was such an exhilarating read. The writing was so beautiful, and had an underlying feeling of woodsy witchy horror that just felt perfect as autumn is coming to a close
Róis and Neferil's relationship stands out with its depth and intensity, perfectly balanced to complement the main plot without overshadowing it. Their chemistry has a nice forced proximity/slow burn element and I just loved feeling their relationship grow throughout the book.
A Flower's Fatal Thorns was such an exhilarating read. The writing was so beautiful, and had an underlying feeling of woodsy witchy horror that just felt perfect as autumn is coming to a close
October 21, 2024
A Flower's Fatal Thorn is a whirlwind of action, prophecies, betrayals with a hint of romance and so much more.
I was sucked in from the very first page and struggled to put it down. There was enough world building to give you a good grasp of everything, without it being overwhelming. I liked the fact that there was action fairly quickly, which allowed the real story to begin almost instantly. It's a fast paced book, with only 260 pages which makes it a real easy read as well.
Ireally enjoyed the various characters, and all their dynamics and genuinely found the plot to be fantastic. I was not expecting the twists and turns and it's definitely left me ready for the next book and wanting more.
I was sucked in from the very first page and struggled to put it down. There was enough world building to give you a good grasp of everything, without it being overwhelming. I liked the fact that there was action fairly quickly, which allowed the real story to begin almost instantly. It's a fast paced book, with only 260 pages which makes it a real easy read as well.
Ireally enjoyed the various characters, and all their dynamics and genuinely found the plot to be fantastic. I was not expecting the twists and turns and it's definitely left me ready for the next book and wanting more.
dnf
November 12, 2024DNF @ ~14%
For whatever reason, this book failed to capture my attention. The premise is somewhat interesting, but the writing doesn't seem to capture any of the urgency or emotion that it wants to, despite the word choices. The writing style is a bit bland to me and the pacing seems off - the main character very quickly loses a loved one, which I think is meant to provide some motivation and emotional depth to the character, but it happens so fast and the characters death just feels like an unnecessary prop.
Thank you to Jordan Dugale for providing an electronic ARC of this book. I'm sorry that it just wasn't for me.
For whatever reason, this book failed to capture my attention. The premise is somewhat interesting, but the writing doesn't seem to capture any of the urgency or emotion that it wants to, despite the word choices. The writing style is a bit bland to me and the pacing seems off - the main character very quickly loses a loved one, which I think is meant to provide some motivation and emotional depth to the character, but it happens so fast and the characters death just feels like an unnecessary prop.
Thank you to Jordan Dugale for providing an electronic ARC of this book. I'm sorry that it just wasn't for me.
November 4, 2024
I received this as an arc for my honest review
All I can say is WOW..this is one of the few YA fantasy book with no spice which was really refreshing because it focused more on the characters, story, and overall details.
The backstory the she gives us on fae and humans realms was beautifully written, I just really enjoyed the story I was hooked from page one, If you want something that’s a beautiful, interesting, attention grabbing story this is for you especially if you want a break from spice.
I’m so grateful to be able to have read this as an arc
All I can say is WOW..this is one of the few YA fantasy book with no spice which was really refreshing because it focused more on the characters, story, and overall details.
The backstory the she gives us on fae and humans realms was beautifully written, I just really enjoyed the story I was hooked from page one, If you want something that’s a beautiful, interesting, attention grabbing story this is for you especially if you want a break from spice.
I’m so grateful to be able to have read this as an arc
November 11, 2024
Thank you, Starlight Library Tours for this gifted copy of A Flower's Fatal Thorn!
This was my first time reading a Jordan Dugdale book, and I enjoyed it so much!!
I really felt immersed in all the action (SO MUCH ACTION!!) and the worldbuilding! I could easily visualise the forests and the rot and was easily swept away in the story! I loved the dual pov of the two main characters and how they were sides of the same coin in this whole adventure! I also adored the bit of found family they gained along the way. And the twists were so good!!!
I can't wait to read what happens next!!
This was my first time reading a Jordan Dugdale book, and I enjoyed it so much!!
I really felt immersed in all the action (SO MUCH ACTION!!) and the worldbuilding! I could easily visualise the forests and the rot and was easily swept away in the story! I loved the dual pov of the two main characters and how they were sides of the same coin in this whole adventure! I also adored the bit of found family they gained along the way. And the twists were so good!!!
I can't wait to read what happens next!!
November 18, 2024
I received this book as an ARC. I needed time to process before reviewing. This was like Cruel Prince meets Princess Mononoke but make it sapphic. It was the first sapphic book I've ever read and it makes me want to read more.
The characters kept you guessing as to who was good or bad or somewhere in between. The charcters were written so well that I got frustrated with them sometimes or felt heartbroken with them. Olbi is probably my favorite character in the book.
I absolutely need the 2nd book because talk about cliffhanger!!! I highly recommend this book.
The characters kept you guessing as to who was good or bad or somewhere in between. The charcters were written so well that I got frustrated with them sometimes or felt heartbroken with them. Olbi is probably my favorite character in the book.
I absolutely need the 2nd book because talk about cliffhanger!!! I highly recommend this book.
January 14, 2025
Loved this from beginning to end. If you want a good adventure, a touch her and die story, with world building but that's also fast paced enough for you to keep turning the pages... this is for you! Rois, the angry human who has believed that faeries are evil murderous, and Neferil, the faerie queen of one of the courts, must join forces to rid the forest of a rot that's killing any and everything. Will they set aside differences to work as a team to save the forest? Or will they surrender to fear and anger and kill each other? Find out now!|
September 6, 2024
This book was incredibly easy to lose yourself in but yet incredibly hard to put down. The world building didn’t drag out like a lot of fantasy books, it shoved you into the thick of it nearly immediately. There was no lull, no slow parts. The writing itself is exquisite, and the author really knows how to suck in the reader and keep them enthralled.
10/10, would recommend this sapphic fae romantasy. Eagerly awaiting book two in this duet!
10/10, would recommend this sapphic fae romantasy. Eagerly awaiting book two in this duet!
November 9, 2024
Let’s just start with wow what an adventure! This is so insanely gripping and it’s like you step into this book and you feel it everywhere! The plot and world building is next level and you can get through this book in 1 day and you want more! The love that builds between these 2 FMC that have gone through so much and just trying to push to save those they care about. It’s so good dark and inspiring. Would 100% recommend-Kerin
October 9, 2024
Faeries and goblins, humans and gods, duality and an endless cycle of nature all collide in a Celtic fantasy setting to forge this great tale. If you are looking for strong women that also have a believable amount of fear and weakness this is the sapphic story for you. It was fast paced and to the point while giving you enough world building to follow along. Would read the next book. 😁✌️
November 5, 2024
YA/NA isn't normally my thing but this very much was! I can't wait for the next installment
November 5, 2024
Updated review fully edited: this was my most anticipated read of 2024. And it did not disappoint! The backstories that we get flashes up- fantastic. Nef is a true QUEEN and I love everything about her. AFFT sucked me in from chapter one. And I would have to force myself to put it down so I could actually adult. Faerie lore. With a touch of magic. I can’t wait to see where the story unfolds to
Will update again I get the final copy
Early early read review . ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC. Nef and Rois are fantastically written. Their story has my heart. It’s been a month or so since I’ve done the pre beta read and I’m STILL thinking about them consistently. I can’t wait to see their story unfold.
Jordan has a way with writing that really draws you in to the story. You’re on the adventure with them. Every twist, turn, heart break, and triumph. She’s an auto buy for me every time.
Will update again I get the final copy
Early early read review . ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC. Nef and Rois are fantastically written. Their story has my heart. It’s been a month or so since I’ve done the pre beta read and I’m STILL thinking about them consistently. I can’t wait to see their story unfold.
Jordan has a way with writing that really draws you in to the story. You’re on the adventure with them. Every twist, turn, heart break, and triumph. She’s an auto buy for me every time.
June 10, 2025
I would like to second the review from Kaitlyn wentworth that mentioned Nef is a true QUEEN and, like her, I love everything about Nef. I recommend the book!
By the way, me: Pride of a catchy art cover getting me read - and adore these characters and this world here.
By the way, me: Pride of a catchy art cover getting me read - and adore these characters and this world here.
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