What do you think?
Rate this book
Court of Blood and Binding #1
Song of Scent and Magic
I was a Silent Maiden, hidden away in a gilded cage. Rebellious, but kept on a tight leash by those in power.
When three handsome Fae warriors, and a man who wants to be more than friends, save me from violent attackers, I have no choice but to go with them.
The world I find myself in is beautiful and dangerous, but I soon come to learn the greatest danger to me is myself. I'm not the person I always believed I was.
I'm so much more.
And that is f**king terrifying.
**This is a reverse harem, omegaverse, epic fantasy romance, with adult content and abs for days.**
When three handsome Fae warriors, and a man who wants to be more than friends, save me from violent attackers, I have no choice but to go with them.
The world I find myself in is beautiful and dangerous, but I soon come to learn the greatest danger to me is myself. I'm not the person I always believed I was.
I'm so much more.
And that is f**king terrifying.
**This is a reverse harem, omegaverse, epic fantasy romance, with adult content and abs for days.**
376 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 17, 2023
245 people are currently reading
567 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
March 2, 2024
First let me say that, despite my 3-star review, this is an excellent book.
It's a High Fantasy Omegaverse Why Choose with Fae and Humans.
The story started amazing and I was sure I would end up loving it. I mean it's a Fae Omegaverse! That premise alone is worth a read.
The Fantasy world was interesting and I was ready to explore it all until the story came to a very slow halt in the middle because the Omega Heat was coming and they all needed to be safely locked away in a nest when it happened. So we take a 2-week downtime where the characters get to know each other better before the steamy heat scene hits. This part is a normal Omegaverse script but I guess I just got bored with the lull in story progression and lost interest. I ended up stopping about 70% in.
Maybe if I had felt more for the characters I might have enjoyed the downtime instead of getting bored but I just wasn't awed by them. They're good characters just not incredible ones. Whatever the reason for me losing interest I don't think it was fully the story's fault. I think it was more of a me problem.
The best advice I can give you for this book is if you love High Fantasy and Omegaverse then this is worth a read, but if one of those 2 things only slightly interests you maybe pass on this one?
It's a High Fantasy Omegaverse Why Choose with Fae and Humans.
The story started amazing and I was sure I would end up loving it. I mean it's a Fae Omegaverse! That premise alone is worth a read.
The Fantasy world was interesting and I was ready to explore it all until the story came to a very slow halt in the middle because the Omega Heat was coming and they all needed to be safely locked away in a nest when it happened. So we take a 2-week downtime where the characters get to know each other better before the steamy heat scene hits. This part is a normal Omegaverse script but I guess I just got bored with the lull in story progression and lost interest. I ended up stopping about 70% in.
Maybe if I had felt more for the characters I might have enjoyed the downtime instead of getting bored but I just wasn't awed by them. They're good characters just not incredible ones. Whatever the reason for me losing interest I don't think it was fully the story's fault. I think it was more of a me problem.
The best advice I can give you for this book is if you love High Fantasy and Omegaverse then this is worth a read, but if one of those 2 things only slightly interests you maybe pass on this one?
February 22, 2024
Blerg
Alabaster's works used to have humor. They've gone to the dark side. This isn't labeled as a dark romance. Honestly, it isn't even a romance. Like all too many authors steam has replaced plots, there's absolutely no romance involved, and anything else that makes a story is absent entirely. No world building, no character development, no plot. The characters are TSTL, all of them. Horribly contrived miscommunication is the only plot device used. Leaders shouldn't be so clueless. Warriors need to train more than once. People who suddenly have magic need time to develop before running around in strange towns. And if scent is the leading way to identify, for pity's sake, why aren't they using magic or perfume to block or cover it up?? The single easiest thing they can do and not a whisper mentioned. Like it never even occurred to them. And do NOT get me started on the disrespectful to readers lack of warnings. This is dark. As in mention of r*pe, a lack of choice in partners due to biological circumstances, kidnapping, hostages, abuse by those given children to raise, a system that sells women into servitude, forced silence via magic, and a crap ton more. In all seriousness, it's just awful. And it makes it sound like a lighthearted romance in the blurb? Where's the romance? Not a whiff. No wooing, no tender touches, no gentle looks, not even a shared cup of tea. He even decides he's going to have to r*pe her if she doesn't choose him voluntarily during her heat just because he wants to keep her from anyone else. Such love. Heavy sarcasm. It was just disgusting. I kept hoping for some sort of redemption. Nope. If you value your mental health and time, avoid.
Alabaster's works used to have humor. They've gone to the dark side. This isn't labeled as a dark romance. Honestly, it isn't even a romance. Like all too many authors steam has replaced plots, there's absolutely no romance involved, and anything else that makes a story is absent entirely. No world building, no character development, no plot. The characters are TSTL, all of them. Horribly contrived miscommunication is the only plot device used. Leaders shouldn't be so clueless. Warriors need to train more than once. People who suddenly have magic need time to develop before running around in strange towns. And if scent is the leading way to identify, for pity's sake, why aren't they using magic or perfume to block or cover it up?? The single easiest thing they can do and not a whisper mentioned. Like it never even occurred to them. And do NOT get me started on the disrespectful to readers lack of warnings. This is dark. As in mention of r*pe, a lack of choice in partners due to biological circumstances, kidnapping, hostages, abuse by those given children to raise, a system that sells women into servitude, forced silence via magic, and a crap ton more. In all seriousness, it's just awful. And it makes it sound like a lighthearted romance in the blurb? Where's the romance? Not a whiff. No wooing, no tender touches, no gentle looks, not even a shared cup of tea. He even decides he's going to have to r*pe her if she doesn't choose him voluntarily during her heat just because he wants to keep her from anyone else. Such love. Heavy sarcasm. It was just disgusting. I kept hoping for some sort of redemption. Nope. If you value your mental health and time, avoid.
January 15, 2024
interesting but something was off
Overall, the story was okay. I like the characters for the most part but something was missing. Maybe the chemistry? A lot of the story was very surface level and the author trying to establish the tropes of each character versus the story just flowing and building. I was a little shocked at the ending though.
Khala was a little too eager to go to the fae realm without rhyme or reason. To say she trusted the men when they gave her no reason was off putting. I get bad vibes from Zared. I feel like he rushed her and felt owed because of what she was doing with the others. That may just be how the author writes though. Every encounter Zared had with Khala was sudden and rushed. How did she know what presenting was? Tavian and Zared was forced and random. There was no building of that relationship. A lot of the banter and conversations were filler and didn’t really add to the story for me. I liked that Khala was forward but almost all of her encounters were very abrupt.
Just in general, fae usually refer to others as male and females, not men and women. This author didn’t do that. Some misspelled words.
Overall, the story was okay. I like the characters for the most part but something was missing. Maybe the chemistry? A lot of the story was very surface level and the author trying to establish the tropes of each character versus the story just flowing and building. I was a little shocked at the ending though.
Khala was a little too eager to go to the fae realm without rhyme or reason. To say she trusted the men when they gave her no reason was off putting. I get bad vibes from Zared. I feel like he rushed her and felt owed because of what she was doing with the others. That may just be how the author writes though. Every encounter Zared had with Khala was sudden and rushed. How did she know what presenting was? Tavian and Zared was forced and random. There was no building of that relationship. A lot of the banter and conversations were filler and didn’t really add to the story for me. I liked that Khala was forward but almost all of her encounters were very abrupt.
Just in general, fae usually refer to others as male and females, not men and women. This author didn’t do that. Some misspelled words.
November 5, 2024
I'll give it a 2.5 but this book was just not for me....spoilers.
Alright, let me just start with the fact that the jokes in this book remind me of things a teenage boy would say? How many holes are needed about the word "coming"? They do it I think 4 times off the top of my head. Or when they discuss how warm the portal is they automatically talk about her vagina and asshole? Why? They weren't even sexual at that point and it didn't come off as banter it just came off as immature. This may be my biggest issue with this book across the board. The men who have been alive for hundreds of years are just children, and the maiden who was raised in a temple is apparently all knowledgeable about sex and sexuality when her collar was supposed to suppress that? And then jumps in both feet with 4 men. Which I read RH the all the time, I can suspend some belief but sometimes you need some build up to care about the relationship.
The other thing that made this book maybe not for me is that it doesn't have a super clear plot at the moment. We aren't clear on who the real bad guys are, we aren't sure what is really happening and the stakes are pretty high for us to not have a clear picture.
I also wasn't a huge fan of the lack of build up with characters, we get sex scenes but we don't really see them connect. We also get a bond with all of them, but we don't talk about it, they don't share any real feelings aside from being possessive and we don't even really know them after almost 400 pages.
I'm overall just bummed. The mix of fantasy and rh is something that is exactly what I would read but this just fell flat and I almost dnfd at the 70 percent mark.
Alright, let me just start with the fact that the jokes in this book remind me of things a teenage boy would say? How many holes are needed about the word "coming"? They do it I think 4 times off the top of my head. Or when they discuss how warm the portal is they automatically talk about her vagina and asshole? Why? They weren't even sexual at that point and it didn't come off as banter it just came off as immature. This may be my biggest issue with this book across the board. The men who have been alive for hundreds of years are just children, and the maiden who was raised in a temple is apparently all knowledgeable about sex and sexuality when her collar was supposed to suppress that? And then jumps in both feet with 4 men. Which I read RH the all the time, I can suspend some belief but sometimes you need some build up to care about the relationship.
The other thing that made this book maybe not for me is that it doesn't have a super clear plot at the moment. We aren't clear on who the real bad guys are, we aren't sure what is really happening and the stakes are pretty high for us to not have a clear picture.
I also wasn't a huge fan of the lack of build up with characters, we get sex scenes but we don't really see them connect. We also get a bond with all of them, but we don't talk about it, they don't share any real feelings aside from being possessive and we don't even really know them after almost 400 pages.
I'm overall just bummed. The mix of fantasy and rh is something that is exactly what I would read but this just fell flat and I almost dnfd at the 70 percent mark.
February 26, 2024
This book....
My rating of this is 3.5 stars but it leans more on 3 rather than 4. It was entertaining and funny ,the spice was great and it was fast paced. I simply think there wasn't much development on the romance or plot which I would have liked for a book about 400 pages long.
My rating of this is 3.5 stars but it leans more on 3 rather than 4. It was entertaining and funny ,the spice was great and it was fast paced. I simply think there wasn't much development on the romance or plot which I would have liked for a book about 400 pages long.
August 9, 2023
I'm still fairly new to Maggie Alabaster's writing. I've read the Ruthless Claws series and loved it but Song of Scent and Magic is my first fantasy by her and I freaking loved it. It's full fantasy, with fae and magic and courts but with an omegaverse twist.
Khala is the curious and adventurous sort so when her life got turned upside-down she went with it. She attacked it with curiosity, an open mind, and thoughtfulness. Her quick wit and sharp tongue also helps things. However, don't let her fool you, Khala is a spitfire and when she's angry you'll know it. I liked her and I liked how she owned her decisions and actions. Somehow Khala seemed to fit in with the new guys in her life perfectly.
The men of this harem are all talk, dark, deadly, and slightly unbalanced. Ryze acts as if nothing affects him but I believe he's caring a lot on his shoulders. Other than the fact he made one bad decision concerning Khala, like him. Vayne started off as a jerk, he's gruff and has a problem with humans but he grew on me. Zared has had his whole world flipped upside down and is going through some things. I like how devoted he is to Khala but his attitude is wearing thin. Finally, but not least, is Tavian, my favorite. He's a murder puppy, which means of course I instantly fell for him and just want to snuggle up for days with him. He has the sweetest personality he just really enjoys killing people and I was totally endeared to him within five minutes.
This story has excellent banter. The main characters are great at it but even a side character or two get in on it. The banter gives off a vibe that is enjoyable to me as a reader. I love that the characters tease each other relentlessly, it's giving them a feeling of togetherness, and it's very playful. I think it's what I enjoyed most about this story.
The plot was great. Secrets, betrayal, a cult-like group, murder, court intrigue, and mysteries make for a good plot. It wasn’t just the plot, Maggie has done an excellent job building this world. The Gods may or may not be real but this world's mythology is great, I wish Maggie added a little more of that. The Temple of the Goddess Breia played an important part in this story and I wonder if more godly information is to come. I loved how Maggie put a unique twist on omegaverse. Sure it's mostly the things I expect but then bam, talk about a plot twist, I didn't see it coming.
Wow, what a read! I can't believe the ending! That was a heck of a cliffhanger, not only was there drama to the extreme but the tease of unknown information was something that I've been waiting for. Song of Scent and Magic is just the beginning of the Court of Blood and Binding series, I can't wait to see how the rest of the series turns out, there are three more heading our way.
Khala is the curious and adventurous sort so when her life got turned upside-down she went with it. She attacked it with curiosity, an open mind, and thoughtfulness. Her quick wit and sharp tongue also helps things. However, don't let her fool you, Khala is a spitfire and when she's angry you'll know it. I liked her and I liked how she owned her decisions and actions. Somehow Khala seemed to fit in with the new guys in her life perfectly.
The men of this harem are all talk, dark, deadly, and slightly unbalanced. Ryze acts as if nothing affects him but I believe he's caring a lot on his shoulders. Other than the fact he made one bad decision concerning Khala, like him. Vayne started off as a jerk, he's gruff and has a problem with humans but he grew on me. Zared has had his whole world flipped upside down and is going through some things. I like how devoted he is to Khala but his attitude is wearing thin. Finally, but not least, is Tavian, my favorite. He's a murder puppy, which means of course I instantly fell for him and just want to snuggle up for days with him. He has the sweetest personality he just really enjoys killing people and I was totally endeared to him within five minutes.
This story has excellent banter. The main characters are great at it but even a side character or two get in on it. The banter gives off a vibe that is enjoyable to me as a reader. I love that the characters tease each other relentlessly, it's giving them a feeling of togetherness, and it's very playful. I think it's what I enjoyed most about this story.
The plot was great. Secrets, betrayal, a cult-like group, murder, court intrigue, and mysteries make for a good plot. It wasn’t just the plot, Maggie has done an excellent job building this world. The Gods may or may not be real but this world's mythology is great, I wish Maggie added a little more of that. The Temple of the Goddess Breia played an important part in this story and I wonder if more godly information is to come. I loved how Maggie put a unique twist on omegaverse. Sure it's mostly the things I expect but then bam, talk about a plot twist, I didn't see it coming.
Wow, what a read! I can't believe the ending! That was a heck of a cliffhanger, not only was there drama to the extreme but the tease of unknown information was something that I've been waiting for. Song of Scent and Magic is just the beginning of the Court of Blood and Binding series, I can't wait to see how the rest of the series turns out, there are three more heading our way.
August 17, 2023
This was my first book by Maggie, the start of a new series around Khala, a young girl brought up as a Silent Maiden who expects her life to be already mapped out for her - but she's in for a bit of a shock!
Tucked away in like a monastery type setting, unable to speak due to magic until they are old enough for it to be removed and they are moved on, as a Silent Maiden Khala thought her life was headed that way, although she was always a bit different from the rest, adventurous and quick witted - Zared is a young priest who is very interested in Khala and is hoping that they can move on together - until they get captured by the Fae. Captured turns out to be rescued as it seems like certain Silent Maidens are being captured and used for nefarious purposes.
I enjoyed this RH read, lots going on, with fae politics, different courts, magic, hot sexy fae and with a twist of omegaverse thrown in! Khala is one of those fmc who I don't know whether to love or hate, she gets herself in so much trouble, and the 4 men who end up in her life are all completely different, yet she has them all. Ryze is the leader of the Winter Court, he is the alpha as Khala turns out to be a female omega, a leader who wants to do everything himself, who has a lot on his shoulders and wants to avoid a war. Vayne is gruff and has an aversion to humans, Tavian is a male omega who likes to kill but is lovely really, and then of course there is Zared who came with Khala, human and determined, not too happy to share!
Lots of hot action between Khala and her 4 males, she's quick to get in there with all 4 let me tell you! There are lots of plot twists and turns as well to keep you on your toes as Khala finds out there is more to her than she ever knew, and there is a lot to learn with a lot at stake. Looking forward to reading more of this series.
Tucked away in like a monastery type setting, unable to speak due to magic until they are old enough for it to be removed and they are moved on, as a Silent Maiden Khala thought her life was headed that way, although she was always a bit different from the rest, adventurous and quick witted - Zared is a young priest who is very interested in Khala and is hoping that they can move on together - until they get captured by the Fae. Captured turns out to be rescued as it seems like certain Silent Maidens are being captured and used for nefarious purposes.
I enjoyed this RH read, lots going on, with fae politics, different courts, magic, hot sexy fae and with a twist of omegaverse thrown in! Khala is one of those fmc who I don't know whether to love or hate, she gets herself in so much trouble, and the 4 men who end up in her life are all completely different, yet she has them all. Ryze is the leader of the Winter Court, he is the alpha as Khala turns out to be a female omega, a leader who wants to do everything himself, who has a lot on his shoulders and wants to avoid a war. Vayne is gruff and has an aversion to humans, Tavian is a male omega who likes to kill but is lovely really, and then of course there is Zared who came with Khala, human and determined, not too happy to share!
Lots of hot action between Khala and her 4 males, she's quick to get in there with all 4 let me tell you! There are lots of plot twists and turns as well to keep you on your toes as Khala finds out there is more to her than she ever knew, and there is a lot to learn with a lot at stake. Looking forward to reading more of this series.
February 29, 2024
*2,5
Esse livro tinha pelo menos mais meia estrela antes desse último capítulo.
A Khala é burra pra cacete! Sinceramente, nem sei se quero continuar a série, mesmo que já esteja tudo lançado.
Ver algumas resenhas na internet me ajudou a identificar o que eu não gostei nesse livro:
* Zero química e menos dez romance entre os personagens.
* Os personagens são rasos/incoerentes.
* Pouquíssimo plot e construção de mundo.
Esse livro tinha pelo menos mais meia estrela antes desse último capítulo.
A Khala é burra pra cacete! Sinceramente, nem sei se quero continuar a série, mesmo que já esteja tudo lançado.
Ver algumas resenhas na internet me ajudou a identificar o que eu não gostei nesse livro:
* Zero química e menos dez romance entre os personagens.
* Os personagens são rasos/incoerentes.
* Pouquíssimo plot e construção de mundo.
September 11, 2023
Being relatively new to the omegaverse genre, I have been confused by other fantasy stories I've read. My lack of creativity aside, I found the characters here down to earth even though some are fae that have the ability to manipulate the element of nature that influences their land. The 3 fae and 1 human male that make up the RH in this story are each unique while making sense of the whole, the harem. This author has given each such a wonderful personality that I found myself drawn to each one.
The story is interesting as well. The first part of the book involves only humans albeit in the context of a temple school of girls who have been rendered speechless by a necklace that forces them to communicate via hand signals. When the fae enter the picture, I was already adjusted to this fantasy environment and fae magic didn't seem like too far a leap.
I might venture to say that this book had readers like me in mind, fantasy fledglings with an aversion toward creatures that I could not understand. If you enjoy reverse harem books you should like this one.
If you like stories about magic and fantasy realms, you should love it. Either way, I recommend it and fully intend to continue reading.
This RH fantasy is book 1 of a new series, "Court of Blood and Binding" and is not standalone. There is explicit sex, including MM and group sex, but it is story appropriate. Subsequent books will be published within 2 - 3 weeks from the last so you won't have to wait long to get your next reading fix!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The story is interesting as well. The first part of the book involves only humans albeit in the context of a temple school of girls who have been rendered speechless by a necklace that forces them to communicate via hand signals. When the fae enter the picture, I was already adjusted to this fantasy environment and fae magic didn't seem like too far a leap.
I might venture to say that this book had readers like me in mind, fantasy fledglings with an aversion toward creatures that I could not understand. If you enjoy reverse harem books you should like this one.
If you like stories about magic and fantasy realms, you should love it. Either way, I recommend it and fully intend to continue reading.
This RH fantasy is book 1 of a new series, "Court of Blood and Binding" and is not standalone. There is explicit sex, including MM and group sex, but it is story appropriate. Subsequent books will be published within 2 - 3 weeks from the last so you won't have to wait long to get your next reading fix!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 12, 2024
DNF- 63%
**Spoilers. Sorry.. totally unavoidable but this book got under my skin...**
Okay. wtf. The number one rule of OV is consent. Not only was there never any real deep conversation about her being okay with ALL the guys being there for a heat that she JUST found out about, but they also KNOWINGLY kept it a secret that she might turn into something she was fearful of? Sure they didn't know about the bonding thing, but that just doesn't add up so it makes it feel like they did know.
The alpha literally admits that she is useful to him because of what she will bring him and his court. Pretty sure he even says that if he had saved a different girl it he would do the same thing. He doesn't find her special. He doesn't have ANY respect for her. And he just expects her to bow down and let him use her sexually and for power because he is alpha and she is omega. This is literally the pack that most OV start out with and the fmc is FLEEING from them.
Also one guy is literally awful to her, and during one of the times that he is continuing to be awful she ends up getting on her knees for him? I'm all for some good ol' degradation kink but.. there was nothing nice leading up to it. He straight up used her and she straight up is totally okay with sleeping with.. literally anyone? I love reverse harems, that's like 90% of what I read lately, and this is the FIRST time I have felt like the fmc is just acting like a wh0re. And I hate saying that because I support women living their best life but like.. her actions make absolutely NO sense for her predicament.
**Spoilers. Sorry.. totally unavoidable but this book got under my skin...**
Okay. wtf. The number one rule of OV is consent. Not only was there never any real deep conversation about her being okay with ALL the guys being there for a heat that she JUST found out about, but they also KNOWINGLY kept it a secret that she might turn into something she was fearful of? Sure they didn't know about the bonding thing, but that just doesn't add up so it makes it feel like they did know.
The alpha literally admits that she is useful to him because of what she will bring him and his court. Pretty sure he even says that if he had saved a different girl it he would do the same thing. He doesn't find her special. He doesn't have ANY respect for her. And he just expects her to bow down and let him use her sexually and for power because he is alpha and she is omega. This is literally the pack that most OV start out with and the fmc is FLEEING from them.
Also one guy is literally awful to her, and during one of the times that he is continuing to be awful she ends up getting on her knees for him? I'm all for some good ol' degradation kink but.. there was nothing nice leading up to it. He straight up used her and she straight up is totally okay with sleeping with.. literally anyone? I love reverse harems, that's like 90% of what I read lately, and this is the FIRST time I have felt like the fmc is just acting like a wh0re. And I hate saying that because I support women living their best life but like.. her actions make absolutely NO sense for her predicament.
August 6, 2023
"Song of Scent and Magic" is the first book in a new high fantasy RH series. Looking at the preorder dates for the next books in this series, this will become a rapid release series, and I'm happy about it because the plot got me really intrigued...
This series has everything I would expect of a high fantasy fae reverse harem series; there's the different courts, magic, lots of gorgeous fae, an fmc who gets swept up into a world she knows practically nothing about, and all the signs of a coming war. On top of that, the author chose to include an omegaverse trope and one hell of a twist at the end of this first book I didn't see coming. I'm really curious to find out what that will mean for the next book, and the characters in this series.
I like the connections that are already there between the three fae males who become Khala's mates in this first book; their banter is quite fun to read, and adding Khala and Zander to the mix comes with some struggles, but nothing too big. I enjoy Khala's confidence in her own skin; it works with the medium burn level of the relationships and the way they all connect with each other. Another big plus is that the omegas in this series aren't "less" in any way, compared to the alphas. Their character is in no way defined by their destination, and I quite enjoyed that.
This is definitely a series I'm going to continue reading; I can't wait to see what will happen next for these characters.
This series has everything I would expect of a high fantasy fae reverse harem series; there's the different courts, magic, lots of gorgeous fae, an fmc who gets swept up into a world she knows practically nothing about, and all the signs of a coming war. On top of that, the author chose to include an omegaverse trope and one hell of a twist at the end of this first book I didn't see coming. I'm really curious to find out what that will mean for the next book, and the characters in this series.
I like the connections that are already there between the three fae males who become Khala's mates in this first book; their banter is quite fun to read, and adding Khala and Zander to the mix comes with some struggles, but nothing too big. I enjoy Khala's confidence in her own skin; it works with the medium burn level of the relationships and the way they all connect with each other. Another big plus is that the omegas in this series aren't "less" in any way, compared to the alphas. Their character is in no way defined by their destination, and I quite enjoyed that.
This is definitely a series I'm going to continue reading; I can't wait to see what will happen next for these characters.
January 31, 2025
DNF 52%
I strongly suspect the author was randomly making this up as they went along. There is no solid plot line. One of the reasons it's important to write an outline first. I'm a reader that likes to know what I'm reading will actually connect with the rest of the plot.
We start off strongly leaning on the goddess route, then the fae and their magic, then suddenly it turns into an omegaverse. I was thinking okayyyy.... Then we veer off to the missing fae courts..... Why? I must say I started nodding off there. Tyler her best friend/sister is more of less forgotten. I'd think they would have been plotting to rescue the other girls but nooooo.
If there are all these omegas why are the fae not keen on humans. Surely there should be little mixed fae and human children running around everywhere...? That's what omegas do right, breed. It wouldn't make sense that the fae spend 10 years grooming these girls only for sex. Then again maybe they have expensive brothels or something.
I probably should have stopped reading when Thalia mentioned being turned on when the priestesses hit her. That was at about 6%. It's that kind of book where it seems everything was just a prop for smut. Not that it was any good if our girl managed to have full blown conversations during the deeds.
Sigh.....
I strongly suspect the author was randomly making this up as they went along. There is no solid plot line. One of the reasons it's important to write an outline first. I'm a reader that likes to know what I'm reading will actually connect with the rest of the plot.
We start off strongly leaning on the goddess route, then the fae and their magic, then suddenly it turns into an omegaverse. I was thinking okayyyy.... Then we veer off to the missing fae courts..... Why? I must say I started nodding off there. Tyler her best friend/sister is more of less forgotten. I'd think they would have been plotting to rescue the other girls but nooooo.
If there are all these omegas why are the fae not keen on humans. Surely there should be little mixed fae and human children running around everywhere...? That's what omegas do right, breed. It wouldn't make sense that the fae spend 10 years grooming these girls only for sex. Then again maybe they have expensive brothels or something.
I probably should have stopped reading when Thalia mentioned being turned on when the priestesses hit her. That was at about 6%. It's that kind of book where it seems everything was just a prop for smut. Not that it was any good if our girl managed to have full blown conversations during the deeds.
Sigh.....
August 26, 2023
Loved this fantasy RH!
This was a great new series by Maggie Alabaster! My review contains spoilers....
*****************************
*******************
****************
***********
********
Khala was taken to be a silent maiden when she was a child and forced to stay silent for 10 years forced to learn a hand signing language to talk to others. On the day that she got her voice back and was supposed to go to the temple with her friend Tyla and Zared, they are attacked by the Fae. Zared and Khala manage to flee and find 3 other Winter Fae – Ryze, Tavian, and Vayne. They take her and Zared to the Winter Fae kingdom and tell her what is actually going on – they are looking for those who are considered an Omega. When Khala goes into heat, she has to lean in on all 4 of her guys to make it through it. Now bonded with all of them, she realizes that not only was she an Omega, but she has physically changed to look like a Fae. The Summer court has been taking the maidens for some nefarious purpose and when they go to the Summer court to find her friends, she and Zared are taken hostage.
Can't wait to see what happens next!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was a great new series by Maggie Alabaster! My review contains spoilers....
*****************************
*******************
****************
***********
********
Khala was taken to be a silent maiden when she was a child and forced to stay silent for 10 years forced to learn a hand signing language to talk to others. On the day that she got her voice back and was supposed to go to the temple with her friend Tyla and Zared, they are attacked by the Fae. Zared and Khala manage to flee and find 3 other Winter Fae – Ryze, Tavian, and Vayne. They take her and Zared to the Winter Fae kingdom and tell her what is actually going on – they are looking for those who are considered an Omega. When Khala goes into heat, she has to lean in on all 4 of her guys to make it through it. Now bonded with all of them, she realizes that not only was she an Omega, but she has physically changed to look like a Fae. The Summer court has been taking the maidens for some nefarious purpose and when they go to the Summer court to find her friends, she and Zared are taken hostage.
Can't wait to see what happens next!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 7, 2023
KC Rating: 4🍁 | 1.5🌶️
It’s always weird to have mixed feelings when reading a book, and especially when you finish it, and it’s not a standalone, so now you need to wait for the next one(s) to fully grasp whether you LOVED the story or loved it.
Faes, court politics, reverse harem, spice, omegaverse, and so much more is packed in this book. It was a great start to a new world, and i’m all for it. This was also one of those books, were characters alternated between pissing me off and me loving them. Honestly, everyone one of them pissed me off at some point, and that’s a first for me!
Get ready for a new world where nothing is as it seems and our characters (even if some of them are old as dirt) don’t know answers to all questions! Meet Khala, a great FMC, who i loved, though some of her choices were a bit weird for me. And let’s be honest, it was the first time for me to read a fantasy book where FMC is Maiden only in name, and gets action really fast in the book, but i loved every minute of it! Overall this was a great beginning of an interesting series, and i can’t wait to know more!
It’s always weird to have mixed feelings when reading a book, and especially when you finish it, and it’s not a standalone, so now you need to wait for the next one(s) to fully grasp whether you LOVED the story or loved it.
Faes, court politics, reverse harem, spice, omegaverse, and so much more is packed in this book. It was a great start to a new world, and i’m all for it. This was also one of those books, were characters alternated between pissing me off and me loving them. Honestly, everyone one of them pissed me off at some point, and that’s a first for me!
Get ready for a new world where nothing is as it seems and our characters (even if some of them are old as dirt) don’t know answers to all questions! Meet Khala, a great FMC, who i loved, though some of her choices were a bit weird for me. And let’s be honest, it was the first time for me to read a fantasy book where FMC is Maiden only in name, and gets action really fast in the book, but i loved every minute of it! Overall this was a great beginning of an interesting series, and i can’t wait to know more!
June 1, 2024
What did I just read? I love a good face paced plot as the next girl. Buuuut. There's absolutely no romance involved, no world building, no character development and no plot. The first time our FMC has sex is right as she discovers lifechanging information and while she doesn't have to cry about it, she could at least process it. The first time she was intimate with Vain was so abrupt I literally was looking at the page like. 
Khala was so eager without needing to be wooed, she was presented like a brainless girl. All her intimate scenes were so rushed. We were told and not shown and that makes it difficult to fall in love with characters.
Khala was so eager without needing to be wooed, she was presented like a brainless girl. All her intimate scenes were so rushed. We were told and not shown and that makes it difficult to fall in love with characters.
August 19, 2023
I loved the storyline! The whole world the author created as well as the omegaverse aspect.
We have a few twists and turns, to keep our attention or keep us guessing.
Full of magic, fae, drama, spice and more!!
Khala was a strong FMC.
I liked that all the guys were different.
I do have mixed feelings about the main characters. So, I can't wait to see how things progress in the next book.
I think this was a great start to a new series. We are given just enough information to grab are attention and yet still leaving us with unanswered questions.
Overall, I thought it was a great read.
We have a few twists and turns, to keep our attention or keep us guessing.
Full of magic, fae, drama, spice and more!!
Khala was a strong FMC.
I liked that all the guys were different.
I do have mixed feelings about the main characters. So, I can't wait to see how things progress in the next book.
I think this was a great start to a new series. We are given just enough information to grab are attention and yet still leaving us with unanswered questions.
Overall, I thought it was a great read.
August 7, 2023
First read by Maggie Alabaster and I was not disappointed. I love a good RH, magic, Fae realm. The FMC has spent most of her life silent in a temple. Little did she know she was an omega and captured/ saved by the High Lord of Winter. A true alpha with his omega and best friend. Things are what the seem and she is in for a rude awakening. With her human by her side and finding her pack the future is unknown.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 20, 2023
Just wth was that ending😱 I swear I want to choke Khala the fmc ugh she is a danger to her own self it's what keeps getting her behind in trouble. When I first read the blurb for this book I knew I had to read it as it has my favorite thing's in a book it's RH with dark themes set in a fae fantasy world.
Khala and a select few of girl's are "Chosen" at the Temple of the Goddess Breia where their known as the Silent Maidens, because they can't talk their only way to communicate is by signing, and now they're getting ready to travel to Havenmoor to become priestesses, but you get the idea that thing's aren't what you'd expect in this temple or I did. Her guy friend Zander who's one of the priest is going with her as he's been in love with her and he's not about to let her go without him on this new adventure, because that's what's about to happen as they travel to Havenmoor. That's all I'm saying I went in blind just from reading the blurb and boy did this arthur take me on a wild ride.
This is definitely a must read there are so many twists and turns and secrets and those plot twists I didn't see that happening. I need that next book like stat I have to find out what's going to happen.
Khala and a select few of girl's are "Chosen" at the Temple of the Goddess Breia where their known as the Silent Maidens, because they can't talk their only way to communicate is by signing, and now they're getting ready to travel to Havenmoor to become priestesses, but you get the idea that thing's aren't what you'd expect in this temple or I did. Her guy friend Zander who's one of the priest is going with her as he's been in love with her and he's not about to let her go without him on this new adventure, because that's what's about to happen as they travel to Havenmoor. That's all I'm saying I went in blind just from reading the blurb and boy did this arthur take me on a wild ride.
This is definitely a must read there are so many twists and turns and secrets and those plot twists I didn't see that happening. I need that next book like stat I have to find out what's going to happen.
June 21, 2025
So…. Pass… I read the sample and that was super interesting so I bought the kindle. Pass. As much as most of us like romance/fantasy/etc, there needs to be more story than a woman who is “in heat” and essentially needs “to satisfy” a little more plot please? I stopped after the first… encounter. I mean… she just got there and isn’t “in heat” yet. She just met him!! It doesn’t matter if they’re Fae characters or human in any book. A little plot… like getting to know each other, maybe help with a “Big Event” or something and then add intimacy….
October 13, 2023
Holy Smokes! amazing story
This was a high fantasy RH omegaverse and omg I need more OV like this!!!
What a fantastic story! Right from the beginning I was hooked. I love the adventure, romance and excitement in this book.
I really felt for the fmc the author did such a good job making me understand her perspective as well as all the mmc’s.
End on a cliffy but the whole series is out so I’m going to binge this so hard.
This was a high fantasy RH omegaverse and omg I need more OV like this!!!
What a fantastic story! Right from the beginning I was hooked. I love the adventure, romance and excitement in this book.
I really felt for the fmc the author did such a good job making me understand her perspective as well as all the mmc’s.
End on a cliffy but the whole series is out so I’m going to binge this so hard.
May 22, 2024
This was a pretty fun read, very fast paced and fast burn. Some of the dialogue was a little strange as well as some of the events/situations feel very familiar.
I went into this blind, so the omegaverse aspect surprised me but I think it blended fairly well over all.
Read this if you want a fast paced fantasy romance that's an overall fun time.
I went into this blind, so the omegaverse aspect surprised me but I think it blended fairly well over all.
Read this if you want a fast paced fantasy romance that's an overall fun time.
August 23, 2023
This was an interesting book! Fantasy romance with fae and all those fantasy elements but also omegaverse. Which I did enjoy! I devoured the first 60% very quickly but after that I did feel it slow down a bit. But overall I still very much enjoyed this book.
August 26, 2023
This is the first in the Court of Blood and Binding series. There are omegas, alphas, fae, magic and lots of HEAT.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 15, 2023
Spunky N Sassy Rating: 5.0
~~~~~~~~~~Julie's ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Khala is a strong willed woman. Is she shocked, yeah. 4 males? This is all so insane. This book, is full of Fae and Magic. A lovely storyline. So excited about this series.
~~~~~~~~~~Julie's ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Khala is a strong willed woman. Is she shocked, yeah. 4 males? This is all so insane. This book, is full of Fae and Magic. A lovely storyline. So excited about this series.
January 8, 2024
A world you can get lost in
Maggie, you have done it again! Combining my love of fae and omegas together in one tantalising read! Can't wait to find out what happens in the next book.
Maggie, you have done it again! Combining my love of fae and omegas together in one tantalising read! Can't wait to find out what happens in the next book.
May 6, 2024
DNF. The plot and dialogue is decent for a porno. And if that’s all you want from your romantasy smut then this is a great one. No judgments, I enjoyed it. There just wasn’t much else not much to keep me reading.
August 27, 2023
😻
Well, heck I hate when the fmc is bit to reckless for her own good. With the way this book ended. It looks like she’s gonna get herself into way worse trouble than before..
Well, heck I hate when the fmc is bit to reckless for her own good. With the way this book ended. It looks like she’s gonna get herself into way worse trouble than before..
September 15, 2023
Reviewed for SNS
Khala is a strong willed woman. Is she shocked, yeah. 4 males? This is all so insane. This book, is full of Fae and Magic. A lovely storyline. So excited about this series.
Khala is a strong willed woman. Is she shocked, yeah. 4 males? This is all so insane. This book, is full of Fae and Magic. A lovely storyline. So excited about this series.
February 8, 2024
SO much opportunity for tension, missed
November 18, 2024
Wow
What a cliffhanger! Epic start. Can't wait to see what happens in book 2. There are so many questions and so few answers.
What a cliffhanger! Epic start. Can't wait to see what happens in book 2. There are so many questions and so few answers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews