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The Palace #1
The Palace of Crystal and Fire
Princess Allorie was the black sheep of her family; the only half Siren half Fae, the only one to push against the Malaran traditions, and the only one who wanted to be able to choose who she loved rather than some mystical Bond dictating who her lifelong Mate should be. She didn't feel like she belonged anywhere, let alone in her own kingdom.
Life was mundane.
Life was a prison.
Life was set in stone for her.
Until the day she was saved from the jaws of an ancient beast by a dark-haired, fiery, rugged stranger named Maxus.
Life from that moment on...changes.
Maxus is all Allorie can seem to think about; focus on; fantasise about. However, there was one big problem: Maxus was from the warring territory past the Gate—the forbidden lands of Nestrique.
When a visit to the Gate goes awry and Allorie attempts to save Maxus from danger, she is suddenly swept into Nestrique and dragged to their kingdom as a prisoner, forced to hide her identity to survive.
As Allorie wonders if she will ever see her home again, she begins to doubt if the place she has called home all her life is really where she belongs... or if it's within Maxus's iron heart.
TWs: Violence, death, imprisonment, emotional and physical abuse, brief mention of suicide, grief, consensual sex scenes
Life was mundane.
Life was a prison.
Life was set in stone for her.
Until the day she was saved from the jaws of an ancient beast by a dark-haired, fiery, rugged stranger named Maxus.
Life from that moment on...changes.
Maxus is all Allorie can seem to think about; focus on; fantasise about. However, there was one big problem: Maxus was from the warring territory past the Gate—the forbidden lands of Nestrique.
When a visit to the Gate goes awry and Allorie attempts to save Maxus from danger, she is suddenly swept into Nestrique and dragged to their kingdom as a prisoner, forced to hide her identity to survive.
As Allorie wonders if she will ever see her home again, she begins to doubt if the place she has called home all her life is really where she belongs... or if it's within Maxus's iron heart.
TWs: Violence, death, imprisonment, emotional and physical abuse, brief mention of suicide, grief, consensual sex scenes
440 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 1, 2023
47 people are currently reading
467 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
July 4, 2023
“𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐛𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 𝐧𝐨𝐛𝐨𝐝𝐲 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮, 𝐨𝐤𝐚𝐲? . . . 𝐈 𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮. 𝐈’𝐥𝐥 𝐚𝐥𝐰𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮.”
The Palace of Crystal and Fire by @stephaniefernandezauthor
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
When I picked up this book, I was not expecting it to be a ‘binge in under 24 hours, couldn’t put it down, finished at 3am’ book. But it was and I’m so freaking happy the author reached out to me to read it because I feel like I absolutely would be missing out not knowing about this book!
The world building in this book is very well done, with each area having their own culture and history. The prominent main side characters are fully fleshed out and solid in their place in the plot and to the MC’s.
I absolutely loved both the MC’s as well as their relationship growth. They both played a pivotal role for the other in growing as individuals, as well as growing the relationship and I am here for all of it. Their love is hard won and not without hurt and heartbreak, and I have all the hope that they get the HEA they both deserve.
If you are a fan of SJM, JLA and romantasy, I 1000% recommend this book. I’m so happy I read it and have already told the author book 2 needs to be released like, this morning lol. Loved it!!
The Palace of Crystal and Fire by @stephaniefernandezauthor
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
When I picked up this book, I was not expecting it to be a ‘binge in under 24 hours, couldn’t put it down, finished at 3am’ book. But it was and I’m so freaking happy the author reached out to me to read it because I feel like I absolutely would be missing out not knowing about this book!
The world building in this book is very well done, with each area having their own culture and history. The prominent main side characters are fully fleshed out and solid in their place in the plot and to the MC’s.
I absolutely loved both the MC’s as well as their relationship growth. They both played a pivotal role for the other in growing as individuals, as well as growing the relationship and I am here for all of it. Their love is hard won and not without hurt and heartbreak, and I have all the hope that they get the HEA they both deserve.
If you are a fan of SJM, JLA and romantasy, I 1000% recommend this book. I’m so happy I read it and have already told the author book 2 needs to be released like, this morning lol. Loved it!!
July 10, 2024
SJM fans, this book is an absolute must-read.
This book exceeded my expectations. It has a main character who is misunderstood and has amazing powers, fated mates, enemies who become lovers, amazing character growth, and a stunning, complex fantasy universe—it has all of this and more. The world-building is incredibly detailed and well-crafted.
I was so attached to Allorie's character and how she developed. The author was incredible at showing us the darkness she was living in when we first encountered her and narrating her story of strength and growth that was very inspiring. It made readers take the time to reflect on their own lives.
I am a sucker for a good love story and this was beautifully done. The author does a great job of displaying the development of both Allorie and Maxus together, and the growth they have as a result of each other.
Although the main focus is romance, the subplot provides enough suspense to keep readers interested without taking away from the romance. The ending was so skillfully crafted, I didn't anticipate it and I don't know how I'm going to handle having to wait for the following book in this series--I'm sure it will be just as remarkable.
This is a must-read for those who love fantasy, romance, and enemies to lovers.
This book exceeded my expectations. It has a main character who is misunderstood and has amazing powers, fated mates, enemies who become lovers, amazing character growth, and a stunning, complex fantasy universe—it has all of this and more. The world-building is incredibly detailed and well-crafted.
I was so attached to Allorie's character and how she developed. The author was incredible at showing us the darkness she was living in when we first encountered her and narrating her story of strength and growth that was very inspiring. It made readers take the time to reflect on their own lives.
I am a sucker for a good love story and this was beautifully done. The author does a great job of displaying the development of both Allorie and Maxus together, and the growth they have as a result of each other.
Although the main focus is romance, the subplot provides enough suspense to keep readers interested without taking away from the romance. The ending was so skillfully crafted, I didn't anticipate it and I don't know how I'm going to handle having to wait for the following book in this series--I'm sure it will be just as remarkable.
This is a must-read for those who love fantasy, romance, and enemies to lovers.
February 4, 2025
I'm pretty sure there's something wrong with me for finishing this book. I know it's harsh which is why this is going to be a spoiled review but I honestly should have DNF.
The story had me interested in the very beginning. You have this Kingdom of Malara where it seems to always be winter. And this royal family of mother, father 2 daughters and 2 sons. They're all Fae except Allorie. She's half Siren cause her mother is full Siren. This means she looks different from all her siblings with her brown hair and curves vs their white hair and pope bodies. They're all pretty rude to her except for one of her brothers.
Oh Allorie also has this giant wolfmare named Lily who is glued to her side all the time (except when she's not - more on that later)
Allorie likes to bust this gate where she meets Maxus who is basically part of the enemy nation Nestrique. Maxus saves Allorie from this bloodsayer creature thing and they essentially become friends. He becomes the bright spot in her day because she has a mean family. Then one day she has to do a bonding ceremony and binds with Xanthar who is awful and her life becomes extra miserable cause he's a creep.
One day trying to get away she ends up in Nestrique and then the whole rest of the book is her living life there and eventually falling in love with Maxus. And then some predictable drama happens at the end and the book ends on a cliffhanger.
The problems I had with this story is we spent way too much time with mopey and sad Allorie. I mean she was absolutely miserable most of the book. It got better when she was in Nestrique and we met Katsia who is such a personality but as much as I loved the side characters it seemed odd to me that Allorie would just start living a new life and forget about her dog? She loved Lily to pieces but you never would have guessed that. Then it just became too convenient at the end that Lily finally finds her after weeks and all the unnecessary drama that followed.
I would have loved to see Allorie stand up for herself or even the ppl of Nestrique stand up for her. They talked a lot about the Bloodless and this war but nobody took it seriously and then the enemy just walked up in there one day like it was the biggest surprise. I also had a hard time imagining this gate cause if it was so easy to hop over a rock and be in the other territory, why was it such a big deal that nobody ever crossed this imaginary line?
I really wanted to like this but I read the description for book 2 plus a review and no thank you. It won't be for me and I can't say that I recommend this story unless you like a lot of darkness and crying and Siren stories that don't flesh out well.
The story had me interested in the very beginning. You have this Kingdom of Malara where it seems to always be winter. And this royal family of mother, father 2 daughters and 2 sons. They're all Fae except Allorie. She's half Siren cause her mother is full Siren. This means she looks different from all her siblings with her brown hair and curves vs their white hair and pope bodies. They're all pretty rude to her except for one of her brothers.
Oh Allorie also has this giant wolfmare named Lily who is glued to her side all the time (except when she's not - more on that later)
Allorie likes to bust this gate where she meets Maxus who is basically part of the enemy nation Nestrique. Maxus saves Allorie from this bloodsayer creature thing and they essentially become friends. He becomes the bright spot in her day because she has a mean family. Then one day she has to do a bonding ceremony and binds with Xanthar who is awful and her life becomes extra miserable cause he's a creep.
One day trying to get away she ends up in Nestrique and then the whole rest of the book is her living life there and eventually falling in love with Maxus. And then some predictable drama happens at the end and the book ends on a cliffhanger.
The problems I had with this story is we spent way too much time with mopey and sad Allorie. I mean she was absolutely miserable most of the book. It got better when she was in Nestrique and we met Katsia who is such a personality but as much as I loved the side characters it seemed odd to me that Allorie would just start living a new life and forget about her dog? She loved Lily to pieces but you never would have guessed that. Then it just became too convenient at the end that Lily finally finds her after weeks and all the unnecessary drama that followed.
I would have loved to see Allorie stand up for herself or even the ppl of Nestrique stand up for her. They talked a lot about the Bloodless and this war but nobody took it seriously and then the enemy just walked up in there one day like it was the biggest surprise. I also had a hard time imagining this gate cause if it was so easy to hop over a rock and be in the other territory, why was it such a big deal that nobody ever crossed this imaginary line?
I really wanted to like this but I read the description for book 2 plus a review and no thank you. It won't be for me and I can't say that I recommend this story unless you like a lot of darkness and crying and Siren stories that don't flesh out well.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 4, 2023
“𝙇𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙙𝙤𝙚𝙨 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙖𝙗𝙞𝙙𝙚 𝙗𝙮 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚. 𝙄𝙩 𝙙𝙤𝙚𝙨 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙖𝙗𝙞𝙙𝙚 𝙗𝙮 𝙗𝙤𝙧𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝙤𝙧 𝙡𝙖𝙣𝙙𝙨, 𝙩𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙚𝙨 𝙤𝙧 𝙧𝙪𝙡𝙚𝙨. 𝙄𝙩 𝙙𝙤𝙚𝙨 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙖𝙗𝙞𝙙𝙚 𝙗𝙮 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙩𝙪𝙨 𝙤𝙧 𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙖𝙜𝙚 𝙤𝙧 𝙬𝙚𝙖𝙡𝙩𝙝 𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙧𝙖𝙙𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣. 𝙇𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙨 𝙩𝙤 𝙪𝙨 𝙧𝙚𝙜𝙖𝙧𝙙𝙡𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙤𝙛 𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙡𝙞𝙫𝙚𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙬𝙝𝙤 𝙬𝙚 𝙖𝙧𝙚.”
⭐️: 4
🌶️: 2
This book grabbed my attention from the start! I enjoyed the world building, it was easy to follow while still being fairly complex. The FMC, Allorie, is quirky and funny, and doesn’t feel that she fits in with her family. She happens upon Maxus, who is from an enemy nation… Yet she can’t stop thinking about him. When a visit with Maxus goes awry and Allorie ends up in enemy territory, where she begins to question where she truly belongs.
This was a great read full of adventure, intrigue, and romance! If you enjoy enemies to lovers, hidden identities, Fae, and found family, this book is for you. The ending had my heart twisting and I cannot wait to read more of Allorie and Maxus’s story!
Thank you to Stephanie Fernandez for sending me a copy of this book for my honest review 🖤
⭐️: 4
🌶️: 2
This book grabbed my attention from the start! I enjoyed the world building, it was easy to follow while still being fairly complex. The FMC, Allorie, is quirky and funny, and doesn’t feel that she fits in with her family. She happens upon Maxus, who is from an enemy nation… Yet she can’t stop thinking about him. When a visit with Maxus goes awry and Allorie ends up in enemy territory, where she begins to question where she truly belongs.
This was a great read full of adventure, intrigue, and romance! If you enjoy enemies to lovers, hidden identities, Fae, and found family, this book is for you. The ending had my heart twisting and I cannot wait to read more of Allorie and Maxus’s story!
Thank you to Stephanie Fernandez for sending me a copy of this book for my honest review 🖤
Read
September 15, 2023ON HOLD (Chapter 11)
October 9, 2023
I LOVED this book! Very few books pull me in from the very first chapter- but this one did! I loved the character growth of both of the MC!! The world building was wonderful and there was so much to be intrigued by! I won’t go into the plot, as you can read the synopsis- but if you like Sarah J Mass- GO read this book!!! Even if you don’t like SJM- READ this book!!! The ending leaves you wanting more! I can’t wait for book two!! Thank you to the author for choosing me to read this book for an honest review! I will be purchasing a physical copy and sending out a few as gifts!
May 21, 2025
Ok I should have finished this faster but I got sick and had motherly/ wife duties. I loved this book! I loved everything about it even though it left me in a cliffhanger. I’m off to read the second one.
December 16, 2023
If you're a fan of "A Court of Thorns and Roses" (ACOTAR) and "The Fourth Wing," then this book is a must-read for you. It seamlessly incorporates all the elements you love from this trope while introducing intriguing twists. I'd like to extend my gratitude to the author for providing me with an ARC Reviewer copy 🩵✨🫶.
The first half of the story is exceptionally detailed, and the world-building is nothing short of extraordinary. As for the second half, it carries that comforting familiarity often associated with the found family trope. My only qualm was that the ending felt rather abrupt, but it might have been a deliberate choice to set the stage for the second book, considering it's the first installment in a trilogy.
**Warning: Spoilers Ahead**
What truly captivated me was certain aspects of the plot, particularly the mystery surrounding the ocean and its connection to the main character. It was this intrigue that kept me engrossed in the book until the wee hours of 2 am. However, I couldn't help but feel a tad disappointed by the limited exploration of this aspect. I'm eagerly anticipating more answers in Book 2! Additionally, I'm craving a deeper dive into the history of the Dark War.
This book boasts a well-balanced pacing that quickens when necessary while maintaining a strong foundation in terms of world-building and character development, especially for the main character. If you've found yourself in a reading slump after devouring works by Sarah J. Maas and similar authors, then this book is precisely what you need to reignite your reading passion!
The first half of the story is exceptionally detailed, and the world-building is nothing short of extraordinary. As for the second half, it carries that comforting familiarity often associated with the found family trope. My only qualm was that the ending felt rather abrupt, but it might have been a deliberate choice to set the stage for the second book, considering it's the first installment in a trilogy.
**Warning: Spoilers Ahead**
What truly captivated me was certain aspects of the plot, particularly the mystery surrounding the ocean and its connection to the main character. It was this intrigue that kept me engrossed in the book until the wee hours of 2 am. However, I couldn't help but feel a tad disappointed by the limited exploration of this aspect. I'm eagerly anticipating more answers in Book 2! Additionally, I'm craving a deeper dive into the history of the Dark War.
This book boasts a well-balanced pacing that quickens when necessary while maintaining a strong foundation in terms of world-building and character development, especially for the main character. If you've found yourself in a reading slump after devouring works by Sarah J. Maas and similar authors, then this book is precisely what you need to reignite your reading passion!
September 19, 2023
Let me start by saying I rarely give a book five stars , but Stephanie Fernandez has done it with this novel. From page one it gave me game of thrones meets ACOTAR vibes!! Perfect combination of enemies to lovers and following your heart and not settling for expectation. Plenty of romance balanced either action. Needless to say my kindle traveled across the room with my shock a time or two. I laughed cried and really connected to these characters. The ending really left me thinking of that Sheldon meme where he goes I don’t need sleep I need answers ! I will definitely keep following this author and her books !
September 21, 2025
I went in completely blind, and ahhhh I’m so glad I did because this book was soooo good!
The plot was plotting, it had amazing character depth and development, emotion, and immersive world-building. I honestly didn’t expect to get triggered at all going in, but a few scenes definitely pulled some ✨trauma✨ to the surface. It wasn’t bad enough to make me want to stop, I just had moments where I needed to sit with it and process before continuing. Some parts had me sobbing, others had me on the literal edge of my seat from the suspense!
The culture, history, and traditions written between the borders of this world were such a strong introduction and somwhow I feel like we’ve only just scratched the surface. There’s still so much more to learn: the sirens, the bloodless, the full scope of the magic system. Right now we have fae with heightened senses and long lifespans, but what else is possible here? And what about a siren x fae? What kind of magic runs through Allorie’s veins?
Allorie, was written so well. She’s raw, misunderstood, and very relatable. Not a damsel, but also not trying to be a hero. She’s uniquely ordinary, which feels strange to say, because she is anything but ordinary and yet her actions and choices felt so human and familiar.
Her mate though... Yeah, no. That slimy ass fae can march right back to where he came from. I didn’t like him from the very beginning and there is no redemption arc that could make me change my mind. I have a sneaking suspicion he’s connected to the bloodless and honestly, how dare he even have a wolfmare..... They are majestic, powerful, intelligent creatures, and he doesn’t deserve one. Lowkey hoping his wolfmare turns on him.
And then there’s Maxus�� That male. I liked him from the very start, the whiplash was so fun. You could see his internal battle, sge is regal and he is wild and him trying to navigatehis feelings towards her. He awoke a fire in Allorie that I am loving, he sees her, really sees her, and wants to know her.
"You belong to you. And only you."
Katsia and Lexart I loooved them. The found family element here was one of my favourite parts of the story. And Lilly!!!!! oh my the most beautiful, majestic wolfmare. I’m obsessed with how much personality is written into an animal that doesn’t speak. Lilly’s bond with Allorie was just everything.
I’m so glad I read this, I genuinely feel like I would’ve been missing out if I hadn’t. Plus, we love to support indie authors. 🫶
This gave me similar vibes to The Shield of Sparrows, with a little bit of SJM and Direbound mixed in so if you love
✨️Found Family
✨️Fae & Sirens
✨️Romantasy
✨️Forbidden Love
✨️Fated Mates (with a twist)
Get this on your TBR
The plot was plotting, it had amazing character depth and development, emotion, and immersive world-building. I honestly didn’t expect to get triggered at all going in, but a few scenes definitely pulled some ✨trauma✨ to the surface. It wasn’t bad enough to make me want to stop, I just had moments where I needed to sit with it and process before continuing. Some parts had me sobbing, others had me on the literal edge of my seat from the suspense!
The culture, history, and traditions written between the borders of this world were such a strong introduction and somwhow I feel like we’ve only just scratched the surface. There’s still so much more to learn: the sirens, the bloodless, the full scope of the magic system. Right now we have fae with heightened senses and long lifespans, but what else is possible here? And what about a siren x fae? What kind of magic runs through Allorie’s veins?
Allorie, was written so well. She’s raw, misunderstood, and very relatable. Not a damsel, but also not trying to be a hero. She’s uniquely ordinary, which feels strange to say, because she is anything but ordinary and yet her actions and choices felt so human and familiar.
Her mate though... Yeah, no. That slimy ass fae can march right back to where he came from. I didn’t like him from the very beginning and there is no redemption arc that could make me change my mind. I have a sneaking suspicion he’s connected to the bloodless and honestly, how dare he even have a wolfmare..... They are majestic, powerful, intelligent creatures, and he doesn’t deserve one. Lowkey hoping his wolfmare turns on him.
And then there’s Maxus�� That male. I liked him from the very start, the whiplash was so fun. You could see his internal battle, sge is regal and he is wild and him trying to navigatehis feelings towards her. He awoke a fire in Allorie that I am loving, he sees her, really sees her, and wants to know her.
"You belong to you. And only you."
Katsia and Lexart I loooved them. The found family element here was one of my favourite parts of the story. And Lilly!!!!! oh my the most beautiful, majestic wolfmare. I’m obsessed with how much personality is written into an animal that doesn’t speak. Lilly’s bond with Allorie was just everything.
I’m so glad I read this, I genuinely feel like I would’ve been missing out if I hadn’t. Plus, we love to support indie authors. 🫶
This gave me similar vibes to The Shield of Sparrows, with a little bit of SJM and Direbound mixed in so if you love
✨️Found Family
✨️Fae & Sirens
✨️Romantasy
✨️Forbidden Love
✨️Fated Mates (with a twist)
Get this on your TBR
September 26, 2023
Rating: 5/5
I received an eARC for my honest opinion.
What would you do if you finally could choose what you wanted, your life, your love, to feel as though you fit in somewhere? Would you say screw it and see where it takes you or would you stay and just do what you have been told to do your whole life?
I am so unbelievably excited that this author reached out to me and asked me to read this book because wow. This book will be on my top books this year, I loved, loved it.
The world building was amazing, I did not want anymore more or less from the author. I loved the characters and all the attention to details that the author put in for us. With this being the first book, it is more character-driven but you will see the plot start coming to life and I cannot wait to see where the next book will take us. The pace of the book was perfect, it had its ups and downs in all the right places, you will not see an info dump in this book. I loved that each area of the kingdom had their own celebrations and how they viewed things differently. The author really showed the light on how beautiful each of the cities were and at the same time the ugliness that is everywhere.
Allorie is a half fae/half siren and one of a kind. She is also stubborn, sweet, kind hearted, and filled with waiting for something more in her life. I loved that even though she might not have known how to do something she would ask; she would put herself into learning how to do it, no matter the pain or sleep she might be losing. She is also very fierce when it comes to the people that she cares about, she is a no nonsense kind of person and might have a small amount of “oh shoot, what did I get myself into. I thought her growth as a character was well done, you could see the strength that it took her to
I liked Max right away, he didn’t hold anything back when it came to how he felt about things, and the people of Allorie’s city. I could understand why he was acting the way he did, and you can tell that he didn’t want to do what he did (not going to say anything BECAUSE YOU NEED TO READ THIS BOOK?) I thought his development was done well, you can see him trying and you will see the progress that he makes. The passion and love that these two have for each was a slow burn but in the best way possible. I loved the banter and the give and take that they had before anything else.
I could go on and on about this book and all the amazing things but really please just pick up this book and try it. It has romance, fantasy, found family, action, drama, fated mates, enemies to lovers, great characters MC, and Side characters.
I want to thank Stephanie Fernandez for the opportunity to review this book.
I received an eARC for my honest opinion.
What would you do if you finally could choose what you wanted, your life, your love, to feel as though you fit in somewhere? Would you say screw it and see where it takes you or would you stay and just do what you have been told to do your whole life?
I am so unbelievably excited that this author reached out to me and asked me to read this book because wow. This book will be on my top books this year, I loved, loved it.
The world building was amazing, I did not want anymore more or less from the author. I loved the characters and all the attention to details that the author put in for us. With this being the first book, it is more character-driven but you will see the plot start coming to life and I cannot wait to see where the next book will take us. The pace of the book was perfect, it had its ups and downs in all the right places, you will not see an info dump in this book. I loved that each area of the kingdom had their own celebrations and how they viewed things differently. The author really showed the light on how beautiful each of the cities were and at the same time the ugliness that is everywhere.
Allorie is a half fae/half siren and one of a kind. She is also stubborn, sweet, kind hearted, and filled with waiting for something more in her life. I loved that even though she might not have known how to do something she would ask; she would put herself into learning how to do it, no matter the pain or sleep she might be losing. She is also very fierce when it comes to the people that she cares about, she is a no nonsense kind of person and might have a small amount of “oh shoot, what did I get myself into. I thought her growth as a character was well done, you could see the strength that it took her to
I liked Max right away, he didn’t hold anything back when it came to how he felt about things, and the people of Allorie’s city. I could understand why he was acting the way he did, and you can tell that he didn’t want to do what he did (not going to say anything BECAUSE YOU NEED TO READ THIS BOOK?) I thought his development was done well, you can see him trying and you will see the progress that he makes. The passion and love that these two have for each was a slow burn but in the best way possible. I loved the banter and the give and take that they had before anything else.
I could go on and on about this book and all the amazing things but really please just pick up this book and try it. It has romance, fantasy, found family, action, drama, fated mates, enemies to lovers, great characters MC, and Side characters.
I want to thank Stephanie Fernandez for the opportunity to review this book.
April 1, 2024
An incredible piece of literature
*SPOILERS AHEAD*
First off; this book was incredible. The world building was so unique and different, and I dove in with so much enthusiasm. The way the world worked was interesting and kept me entertained, while also making me curious about more. I loved the sibling rivalry and the dynamic between them all (as an only child it’s also hilarious), and I loved that the King wasn’t very involved but just kind of barked orders without understanding context or consequences for his demands. I did wonder so much about the mother and what happened to her life, and I also wanted to know more of what happened to Allorie on the beach that day with Maxus!
But the way they met … swoon. I loved him from the moment I met him. The coy smirks, the flashy dangerous side, I loved him. I also loved his friends Katsia and Lexart, and I loved Quinn and the memories we got to hear of him. I wanted more about the Wild Fae and their homelands to be spoken about, just to know more out of curiosity and love for their culture. I also ADORED the ending (even though you’ll be speaking to my lawyer about the emotional damage I have). The way the mother did her best, and the Mate just abandoned Allorie!!! Fuckwit. I hated him from the beginning. I even had a thought that he had ‘made up’ the bond or ‘forced/coerced’ it into happening. Like he was just rotten.
But the book is 5 stars for me. The pace and tempo of the writing kept me going, I never felt like anything was ‘lacking’ or that I missed out on more. I loved the worlds, the lands, the dialogue and the plot so much. If you’re into super well written fantasy and some steamy scenes, you’ll adore Stephanie’s writing.
*SPOILERS AHEAD*
First off; this book was incredible. The world building was so unique and different, and I dove in with so much enthusiasm. The way the world worked was interesting and kept me entertained, while also making me curious about more. I loved the sibling rivalry and the dynamic between them all (as an only child it’s also hilarious), and I loved that the King wasn’t very involved but just kind of barked orders without understanding context or consequences for his demands. I did wonder so much about the mother and what happened to her life, and I also wanted to know more of what happened to Allorie on the beach that day with Maxus!
But the way they met … swoon. I loved him from the moment I met him. The coy smirks, the flashy dangerous side, I loved him. I also loved his friends Katsia and Lexart, and I loved Quinn and the memories we got to hear of him. I wanted more about the Wild Fae and their homelands to be spoken about, just to know more out of curiosity and love for their culture. I also ADORED the ending (even though you’ll be speaking to my lawyer about the emotional damage I have). The way the mother did her best, and the Mate just abandoned Allorie!!! Fuckwit. I hated him from the beginning. I even had a thought that he had ‘made up’ the bond or ‘forced/coerced’ it into happening. Like he was just rotten.
But the book is 5 stars for me. The pace and tempo of the writing kept me going, I never felt like anything was ‘lacking’ or that I missed out on more. I loved the worlds, the lands, the dialogue and the plot so much. If you’re into super well written fantasy and some steamy scenes, you’ll adore Stephanie’s writing.
July 23, 2023
𝙎𝙩𝙖𝙧 𝙍𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
𝙎𝙥𝙞𝙘𝙚 𝙍𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜: 🌶🌶🌶🌶
I loved this book! From the first few paragraphs I was hooked and couldn't put it down.
The world-building was perfect, being immersive and descriptive enough to easily imagine the world and characters. There wasn't a great deal of magic in this book, but I'm thinking the next book will probably explore this more, and I'm looking forward to it.
I connected almost instantly with Ally, the half-fae half-siren fmc, and felt so much for her! I love how she developed throughout the story, and I was cheering when she finally felt strong enough, and accepted enough, to stand up for herself; talk about some great character growth!
Maxus is everything Ally needs in her life, namely someone to see her, accept her, and boost her up, and I love him just for that. I also love his bath, and a certain bath scene 🥵.
This book gave me some ACOTAR vibes (think Tamlin/ Rhysand, and Feyre's family) which I absolutely love!
I felt so much reading this book -- I laughed, raged, swooned, sobbed, and feared. This emotional connection always makes a great read for me.
Suffice to say I loved this book so much that I'll be buying myself a copy to go on my shelf.
Fair warning, if you read this you may end up with a major book hangover after the cliffhanger ending, I did, and cannot wait for book 2!
💢 𝙏𝙒𝙨: violence, death, imprisonment, emotional & physical abuse, brief mention of suicide, grief, consensual sexual scenes
𝑻𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒌 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒂𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒓 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒏 𝒆𝑨𝑹𝑪 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌. 𝑨𝒍𝒍 𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉𝒕𝒔 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒎𝒚 𝒐𝒘𝒏 𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒐𝒑𝒊𝒏𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒔.
𝙎𝙥𝙞𝙘𝙚 𝙍𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜: 🌶🌶🌶🌶
I loved this book! From the first few paragraphs I was hooked and couldn't put it down.
The world-building was perfect, being immersive and descriptive enough to easily imagine the world and characters. There wasn't a great deal of magic in this book, but I'm thinking the next book will probably explore this more, and I'm looking forward to it.
I connected almost instantly with Ally, the half-fae half-siren fmc, and felt so much for her! I love how she developed throughout the story, and I was cheering when she finally felt strong enough, and accepted enough, to stand up for herself; talk about some great character growth!
Maxus is everything Ally needs in her life, namely someone to see her, accept her, and boost her up, and I love him just for that. I also love his bath, and a certain bath scene 🥵.
This book gave me some ACOTAR vibes (think Tamlin/ Rhysand, and Feyre's family) which I absolutely love!
I felt so much reading this book -- I laughed, raged, swooned, sobbed, and feared. This emotional connection always makes a great read for me.
Suffice to say I loved this book so much that I'll be buying myself a copy to go on my shelf.
Fair warning, if you read this you may end up with a major book hangover after the cliffhanger ending, I did, and cannot wait for book 2!
💢 𝙏𝙒𝙨: violence, death, imprisonment, emotional & physical abuse, brief mention of suicide, grief, consensual sexual scenes
𝑻𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒌 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒂𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒓 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒏 𝒆𝑨𝑹𝑪 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌. 𝑨𝒍𝒍 𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉𝒕𝒔 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒎𝒚 𝒐𝒘𝒏 𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒐𝒑𝒊𝒏𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒔.
September 24, 2023
I love this book!!! I fell in love with the characters and imagery. The writing is amazing, the world the author creates is full, vibrant and exciting. It took me a few chapters to really get hooked, but those first few chapters are soooo important. They are essential to get a full understanding of the world in this book, character development, and to feel a connection to the characters. If those first few chapters had been different or condensed, the rest of the book wouldn’t have been as captivating and there wouldn’t been a real understanding as the events unfold. Ally is AMAZING and I cannot wait to see how her character grows in book 2. The writing is beautiful, the males are tall, strong and sexy. The lands are beautiful and forbidden. At about 100 pages in I thought I knew exactly what was going to happen. I was WRONG. It took so many turned that I did not see coming and it constantly kept me guessing. The story kept me at the edge of my seat, constantly saying “just one more chapter” to myself long into the night. The ending completely blindsided me and has me crying for book 2 to be released as soon as possible! If you love fantasy, fae, mythical beautiful and scary creatures, mating bonds, kings and queens, slow exciting burning passion, and writing your own destiny then you will love this book and this author as much as I do!
July 31, 2025
ahh wow! what a start
I almost give a 5 but I got a bit of eyerolloing from “peridot eyes” hahaha and some mixup in the story line (like everyone has their Bindong party at age 21 and on and she says that they sure doesnt even know how old is she as only before the first ball they have this gal pajama party typa thing going)
But anyway! This was an amazing book, fantastic world built and a lot of emotion and adventure and romance and steam and whatnot…
I was hoping to have an ending here but seems we will have B2… which I cannot miss
So, while the heroine is a cryer not really annoyingly so therfore her character was still likable and a person you are rooting for…
Mr dark and broody is of course a perfect prince and a perfect p(!%¥) at the same time so of course I loved him.
And all characters really from the merry band!
Ill definitely get to b2, especially after this cliffhanger at the end….
I almost give a 5 but I got a bit of eyerolloing from “peridot eyes” hahaha and some mixup in the story line (like everyone has their Bindong party at age 21 and on and she says that they sure doesnt even know how old is she as only before the first ball they have this gal pajama party typa thing going)
But anyway! This was an amazing book, fantastic world built and a lot of emotion and adventure and romance and steam and whatnot…
I was hoping to have an ending here but seems we will have B2… which I cannot miss
So, while the heroine is a cryer not really annoyingly so therfore her character was still likable and a person you are rooting for…
Mr dark and broody is of course a perfect prince and a perfect p(!%¥) at the same time so of course I loved him.
And all characters really from the merry band!
Ill definitely get to b2, especially after this cliffhanger at the end….
April 22, 2023
Like Sarah J. Maas? You’ll LOVE Stephanie Fernandez. I recently stepped out of my horror/thriller comfort zone and into the world of fantasy and boy, was it worth it! This book grants you an instant connection with the protagonist, and transports you into a unique world that you’ve never seen before. It’s written in such a way that it feels like the story is playing out right in front of you, like pictures are being painted in your mind. It also has everything you’d want from this genre, with the misunderstood main character, the loving but painfully traditional family, the star-crossed lovers, the twist and turns, the raunchiness, the shocking moments, the comedic relief, and, my favourite thing, the most beautiful doggo/best friend Lily!
Highly recommend giving this novel a read. Bring on a sequel, please!
Highly recommend giving this novel a read. Bring on a sequel, please!
January 19, 2025
What if you didn't want your fated mate???
The Palace of Crystal and Fire is for lovers of fae and romantasy.
Half fae-half siren, Allorie lives in a world that confines her talents and dreams. Destined to have a fated-mate, she finds that she doesn't want the one 'fate' has chosen for her. Oh, she tries to make it work - but Maxus a mysterious dark fae from an enemy nation has captured her curiosity. He's everything she shouldn't want ... but she does.
But Maxus has his own secrets and problems that keep him at a distance from Allorie.
This book is a page turner, the drama, suspense and action keep the plot moving. You won't be able to put the book down. Be warned.
I love the character arcs that we watch unfurl within the story lines. The strength and courage both Maxus and Allorie have to show to meet the obstacles in their way.
The Palace of Crystal and Fire is for lovers of fae and romantasy.
Half fae-half siren, Allorie lives in a world that confines her talents and dreams. Destined to have a fated-mate, she finds that she doesn't want the one 'fate' has chosen for her. Oh, she tries to make it work - but Maxus a mysterious dark fae from an enemy nation has captured her curiosity. He's everything she shouldn't want ... but she does.
But Maxus has his own secrets and problems that keep him at a distance from Allorie.
This book is a page turner, the drama, suspense and action keep the plot moving. You won't be able to put the book down. Be warned.
I love the character arcs that we watch unfurl within the story lines. The strength and courage both Maxus and Allorie have to show to meet the obstacles in their way.
July 5, 2023
I am not usually a fan of fantasy... but Stephanie Fernandez has completely changed my perspective on the genre. Through her use of tremendously skilled world building, Fernandez had me drawn to the emotional rollercoaster I felt following the protagonist's journey. Having both fae and sirens in the same text made my pagan heart light up. It was a beautiful and exciting cross-over!
As a sucker for romance, the enemies-to-lovers trope throughout absolutely kept me hooked. With a trope that is so common, Fernandez was able to give it a fresh and fascinating take on it; giving a nice crossover of enemies-to-lovers and fated-lovers.
CANNOT WAIT for book 2 - for sure going to be grabbing a copy to feed my new-found love for fantasy novels!!
As a sucker for romance, the enemies-to-lovers trope throughout absolutely kept me hooked. With a trope that is so common, Fernandez was able to give it a fresh and fascinating take on it; giving a nice crossover of enemies-to-lovers and fated-lovers.
CANNOT WAIT for book 2 - for sure going to be grabbing a copy to feed my new-found love for fantasy novels!!
September 6, 2024
Why are more people not talking about this series!?!
I would say it took about 3 chapters and then I was hooked and flew through this book. I legit read it so fast that I thought it was a novella because I wasn't putting it down and the twist and turns just kept coming. I had no clue it was over 400 pages until I looked it up, it definably does not drag and keeps you hooked.
I enjoyed both main characters of Maxus and Allorie, though there were a couple times I wanted to throat punch Maxus, but that is the way of the fae. Allorie POV throughout and her inner thoughts really bring more depth to the character and her experiencing things that others take for granted was wonderful. I am jumping right into book 2 and I can not wait!
I would say it took about 3 chapters and then I was hooked and flew through this book. I legit read it so fast that I thought it was a novella because I wasn't putting it down and the twist and turns just kept coming. I had no clue it was over 400 pages until I looked it up, it definably does not drag and keeps you hooked.
I enjoyed both main characters of Maxus and Allorie, though there were a couple times I wanted to throat punch Maxus, but that is the way of the fae. Allorie POV throughout and her inner thoughts really bring more depth to the character and her experiencing things that others take for granted was wonderful. I am jumping right into book 2 and I can not wait!
June 5, 2023
Are you a Sarah J. Maas fan looking for your next read? Then look no further than Stephanie Fernandez's Palace of Crystal and Fire.
What a beautifully crafted world that kept you gripped until the final word. Once I picked it up, I couldn't put it down! The author connects you to the protagonist in such a way that you feel the wide range of emotions that they experience throughout their journey and development in book one. The world itself is unique and detailed in a way that you can visualise it clearly in your imagination. Fantasy Romance as a genre has been done to death, but this was a fresh take and I loved every minute of it!
I CAN'T WAIT for book two.
What a beautifully crafted world that kept you gripped until the final word. Once I picked it up, I couldn't put it down! The author connects you to the protagonist in such a way that you feel the wide range of emotions that they experience throughout their journey and development in book one. The world itself is unique and detailed in a way that you can visualise it clearly in your imagination. Fantasy Romance as a genre has been done to death, but this was a fresh take and I loved every minute of it!
I CAN'T WAIT for book two.
August 1, 2023
“But I can tell you this; it is the opposite of being suffocated. It’s like I’ve realised my whole life I’ve been suffocating, and now I can’t finally breathe”.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
——————————————————————————————
- Sworn Enemies to Lovers
- Fantasy Romance
- Mates & Bonds
- Found Family
- Sirens & Fae
- Single POV
——————————————————————————————
I was sent this book in exchange for an honest review!
I really enjoyed this so much! I’m slowly reading more and more romantasy books and I’m becoming obsessed!
I loved both the MMC & the FMC! I think they both had amazing qualities to their personality that kept you hooked and your interest peaked!
I enjoyed Lily and think she was just bloody awesome!! 🐾
For those that love ACOTAR & ACOMAF you will enjoy this book! I’m excited to read the next book in the series!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
——————————————————————————————
- Sworn Enemies to Lovers
- Fantasy Romance
- Mates & Bonds
- Found Family
- Sirens & Fae
- Single POV
——————————————————————————————
I was sent this book in exchange for an honest review!
I really enjoyed this so much! I’m slowly reading more and more romantasy books and I’m becoming obsessed!
I loved both the MMC & the FMC! I think they both had amazing qualities to their personality that kept you hooked and your interest peaked!
I enjoyed Lily and think she was just bloody awesome!! 🐾
For those that love ACOTAR & ACOMAF you will enjoy this book! I’m excited to read the next book in the series!!
May 2, 2023
Omg!! This book is so addictive. I could not put it down or stop thinking about it. I felt like the author drew me in and her characters feel so real. I laughed and cried and I hated the protagonist with a passion. It had just the right amount of humor, romance and action. The ending though....aargh....so good. Yes, it is a cliffhanger and I can't wait for the second book. You will fall in love with the characters and feel like you are there. Such a fantastic read from this new author. It will leave you begging for more.
July 9, 2023
Before you ask why did it take so long to read, I’ll let you know I’m a slow reader.
The blurb provides the reader much of the story, twists and turns could be inferred because, generally, what’s a good fantasy story without one. This story tends towards the dramatics of slow-burn romances, but it has courage and resilience at its core.
There is a character you will more than likely wish you could transport into the story and hurt in some way, and there are characters to feel warmth toward.
Triggers: dealing with grief
The blurb provides the reader much of the story, twists and turns could be inferred because, generally, what’s a good fantasy story without one. This story tends towards the dramatics of slow-burn romances, but it has courage and resilience at its core.
There is a character you will more than likely wish you could transport into the story and hurt in some way, and there are characters to feel warmth toward.
Triggers: dealing with grief
October 6, 2025
WOW… holy 5,6,7 Stars!! SO good!! Ugh a completely original world, magic system, plot and everything! Every page had me burning for more, I loved that I really had no idea what was coming next! So excited, Ill be inhaling the next two books! As a fellow black sheep, I related to the FMC so much! This is such a unique plot line as the FMC is bonded to one character, but loves someone else entirely. Sooo different from the usual “bonded and in love instantly”! I am lookimg forward to the rest of this story!
Currently reading
December 31, 2025I Couldn't Put It Down
In the beginning I thought this was going to be a cliche story, but I was wrong. Unique aspects of different mythologies were pleasantly mixed together into a realm that worked. I didn't notice any glaring plot holes, and there was no "because of magic" lazy writing. I stayed up until 6am because I was so involved in the storyline. How exactly was this going to turn out for our FMC? I can usually predict the storylines of these romantasy books, but this ending caught me by surprise. I highly recommend this book and cannot wait to read Book 2!
In the beginning I thought this was going to be a cliche story, but I was wrong. Unique aspects of different mythologies were pleasantly mixed together into a realm that worked. I didn't notice any glaring plot holes, and there was no "because of magic" lazy writing. I stayed up until 6am because I was so involved in the storyline. How exactly was this going to turn out for our FMC? I can usually predict the storylines of these romantasy books, but this ending caught me by surprise. I highly recommend this book and cannot wait to read Book 2!
September 13, 2023
AMAZING, what a fantastic book! Absolutely loved every minute of reading it and cannot wait for the next one!
Always have and always will be a sucker for a love story especially when it’s so beautifully written, with every chapter i was more and more invested in every aspect and character
the story was written with so much detail it really makes it easy for your imagination to run wild.
Just all around amazing wish it never ended!
Always have and always will be a sucker for a love story especially when it’s so beautifully written, with every chapter i was more and more invested in every aspect and character
the story was written with so much detail it really makes it easy for your imagination to run wild.
Just all around amazing wish it never ended!
June 5, 2023
Allorie is such a relatable character and it's truly fascinating to watch her discover what it means to be half siren as she also navigates hiding her identity and the developing romance between her and Maxus. Maxus himself is the perfect cocktail of handsome, fierce, and tender. I truly can't wait to see where their story goes next!!
June 18, 2023
I absolutely loved this book! It was stunning with the world building and the beautiful character growth. I’m rather obsessed with fae and sirens and to have both in one book is always a beautiful combination. Also the humor in this book was just perfect :) I loved how relatable the characters were. Like legit new favorite author?!? Yes totally :) I can’t wait to find out what happens next!
March 22, 2024
"I swear to the Universe, Katsia, I will shove that piece of bread right up your ass if you finish that sentence" - Lmaaaaao!!!
Loved this even more than I thought I would!
There were times I wanted to scream in rage alongside Allorie, or sob from grief and heartache! Just beautifully written.
Can't wait for the next one xx
Loved this even more than I thought I would!
There were times I wanted to scream in rage alongside Allorie, or sob from grief and heartache! Just beautifully written.
Can't wait for the next one xx
May 12, 2024
wow
I came into this book completely blind but I was not disappointed. I loved the world building and some of the characters, others I would not be disappointed If they were erased (iykyk). The story didn’t play out how I thought it would (in a good way). I can’t wait for the next book because I was left on a cliff hanger and I can’t emotionally handle that
I came into this book completely blind but I was not disappointed. I loved the world building and some of the characters, others I would not be disappointed If they were erased (iykyk). The story didn’t play out how I thought it would (in a good way). I can’t wait for the next book because I was left on a cliff hanger and I can’t emotionally handle that
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