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Wild Hunt #1
Dancing With Darkness
IF THE WITCHER WAS THRUST INTO A COURT OF THORNS AND ROSES
Stay out of the problems of the island
Sweet Summerfae, Valentina, did not listen when she gave up the enemy’s secrets to save a loved one from an ambush in a growing war.
The War of Many is brewing
And those secrets take her to the frontlines, captive to the worst court of all—the firefae to the east.
Stay away from the Wild Hunt
But it’s either escape with the gorgeous deadly Hunter whose shadows call to the darkness in her or back to the endless burning fire of Autumn Court.
Once worlds apart—now leashed together
And they could never be more at odds. Valentina’s hate for Kaderyn’s arrogance is enough to draw the attention of absent gods. The two are forced on a quest for survival across an island of deceiving fae, dangerous monsters, and meddling, rhyming pixies. But that hate soon transforms into a desire neither expect as she lights a path through his darkness, and his shadows start leading her home.
The darkness of the Hunt is going to find out exactly what the light of Summer is made of
Dancing with Darkness is a slow burn, mild spice fantasy romance. Book two, Shadows of Solace, carries the payload of a ‘one love, all-consuming, romance’ with heat and court intrigue ramped up. The world of Eadha is full of unique fantasy creatures, magical artifacts, and tavern-type songs.
The Wild Hunt books are NOT dark romance or reverse harem. Content warnings violence, swearing, hunting/animal related triggers and sexual content not meant for those under 18.
Stay out of the problems of the island
Sweet Summerfae, Valentina, did not listen when she gave up the enemy’s secrets to save a loved one from an ambush in a growing war.
The War of Many is brewing
And those secrets take her to the frontlines, captive to the worst court of all—the firefae to the east.
Stay away from the Wild Hunt
But it’s either escape with the gorgeous deadly Hunter whose shadows call to the darkness in her or back to the endless burning fire of Autumn Court.
Once worlds apart—now leashed together
And they could never be more at odds. Valentina’s hate for Kaderyn’s arrogance is enough to draw the attention of absent gods. The two are forced on a quest for survival across an island of deceiving fae, dangerous monsters, and meddling, rhyming pixies. But that hate soon transforms into a desire neither expect as she lights a path through his darkness, and his shadows start leading her home.
The darkness of the Hunt is going to find out exactly what the light of Summer is made of
Dancing with Darkness is a slow burn, mild spice fantasy romance. Book two, Shadows of Solace, carries the payload of a ‘one love, all-consuming, romance’ with heat and court intrigue ramped up. The world of Eadha is full of unique fantasy creatures, magical artifacts, and tavern-type songs.
The Wild Hunt books are NOT dark romance or reverse harem. Content warnings violence, swearing, hunting/animal related triggers and sexual content not meant for those under 18.
296 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 27, 2023
362 people are currently reading
1790 people want to read
About the author
H.J. Reese
8 books22 followersH J Reese is a left-handed, second-born, Sagittarius, who often falls into all the stereotypes these represent. She lives in a small town in Ontario, Canada but her dreams take her around the world. She is the author of the Wild Hunt books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
June 29, 2023
If you love ACOTAR with a mix of the wild hunt, this is absolutely for you. And it’s on KU!
One of the easiest 5*’s I could give. Everything about this has kept me so hooked. If I hadn’t had work I’d have devoured it in one go. This absolutely deserves some love it’s way.
The whole world is fae based, we have 5 courts, Gods and a bunch of creatures I’ve never heard of before. Descriptions are brilliant without being so over done they become boring. We start with Val, a fae who works in a theatre. Without spoilers she finds herself in some hot bother and enter Kade. Broody, moody and a one track mind to hunt down what belongs to him. Add Val and things get very complicated, very quickly.
Add this to your tbr, you absolutely won’t be disappointed.
One of the easiest 5*’s I could give. Everything about this has kept me so hooked. If I hadn’t had work I’d have devoured it in one go. This absolutely deserves some love it’s way.
The whole world is fae based, we have 5 courts, Gods and a bunch of creatures I’ve never heard of before. Descriptions are brilliant without being so over done they become boring. We start with Val, a fae who works in a theatre. Without spoilers she finds herself in some hot bother and enter Kade. Broody, moody and a one track mind to hunt down what belongs to him. Add Val and things get very complicated, very quickly.
Add this to your tbr, you absolutely won’t be disappointed.
September 27, 2023
I wanted to like it so much more than I did. It wasn't bad, but it didn't grab me as much as ACOTAR has. The characters were likeable but the plot wasn't quite there. 3.5 ⭐ rounded up.
October 5, 2023
3.25⭐️ because it lacked a romantic edge!! There was barely a hint of romance until 90% of the way through! It was still enjoyable but I think a little smut would have landed this book higher on my ratings. Hoping the next one keeps the romance blooming that started in the final chapters…but hope it doesn’t take too long to heat up
June 22, 2023
I received an ARC copy yesterday. And I must say the beginning of the book got me hooked right away. The story seemed to progress at a good pace, and then it kinda just fell away a little. I didn't feel like the book was like "the Witcher," or ACOTR." It lacked action. It lacked character development, and Kade honesty didn't seem all that arrogant . I felt the author spent too much time describing the world around the characters ( and I'm someone who loves world building) than actually having good dialog between the characters and letting their different personalities shine through. They spent most of the book just riding a horse, making fire, hunting, and eating. The book was an okay book to read. I just wished there was more depth, but the concept of the plot is what kept me reading.
This review is voluntary.
This review is voluntary.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 15, 2024
Well it was a story with characters that did things. It feels like I started a story in the middle of it.
January 8, 2025
This was one of my favorite books I read in 2024, I absolutely loved it. I think I added it to my top 10 before it was even done. I wish it had a better title and a more unique cover that matched how cool this story is.
June 10, 2024
Plot, characters and world building were good. It was very entertaining and everything I wanted out of this book.
December 20, 2024
Review to come
July 4, 2023
I would like to thank H J Reese for my copy of her ARC. Due to this kind gesture I have decided to leave an honest review.
WOOOOOWWW! Can I just say I devoured this book in one sitting?! If you are a fan of Sarah J Maas, Jennifer L. Armentrout, Kerri Maniscalco and so on, this series is definitely for you!
The story is a mix of The Wild Hunt & Fae with courts (ACOTAR style) and it mixes so well.. veeeeeeery well to be precise. There are 5 courts, all with their own abilities but then there is also the faeless who have no magic but are still fae and live just as long. Then there are also gods, Demi gods, pixies, wild creatures, and I am LIVING FOR IT!
I absolutely adored our main characters! Our band of morally grey characters (especially Kade) have a special little place in my heart. Teal our blue rhyming little pixie is absolutely adorable, Jairek absolutely adores his group and protects them to no end. Kaderyn our lord of the Court of The Shadows, Fallen Leader of the Wild Hunt has you wanting to learn more an more about his story. Our main leading lady Valentina is certainly a force to be reckoned with and her character development has you routing for her all the way.
I don’t like to go too much into the story of a book I review as I wouldn’t want to waste it, but it certainly is worth a read! If you are into fae, magic, creatures, romance and fantasy all rolled nice in a sweet baked pie then this is certainly for you, I cannot wait for the next book.. I need it NOOOOW!! Oh, and I did I mention it’s on KU?!
WOOOOOWWW! Can I just say I devoured this book in one sitting?! If you are a fan of Sarah J Maas, Jennifer L. Armentrout, Kerri Maniscalco and so on, this series is definitely for you!
The story is a mix of The Wild Hunt & Fae with courts (ACOTAR style) and it mixes so well.. veeeeeeery well to be precise. There are 5 courts, all with their own abilities but then there is also the faeless who have no magic but are still fae and live just as long. Then there are also gods, Demi gods, pixies, wild creatures, and I am LIVING FOR IT!
I absolutely adored our main characters! Our band of morally grey characters (especially Kade) have a special little place in my heart. Teal our blue rhyming little pixie is absolutely adorable, Jairek absolutely adores his group and protects them to no end. Kaderyn our lord of the Court of The Shadows, Fallen Leader of the Wild Hunt has you wanting to learn more an more about his story. Our main leading lady Valentina is certainly a force to be reckoned with and her character development has you routing for her all the way.
I don’t like to go too much into the story of a book I review as I wouldn’t want to waste it, but it certainly is worth a read! If you are into fae, magic, creatures, romance and fantasy all rolled nice in a sweet baked pie then this is certainly for you, I cannot wait for the next book.. I need it NOOOOW!! Oh, and I did I mention it’s on KU?!
August 15, 2023
I’ve never seen the Witcher but I did get some ACOTAR vibes and was hooked immediately! The world building? Honestly made me feel RIGHT there. I just finished this one and I’m already ready for the next! GO READ THIS WOWOWOWOW
Want to thank the author for the ARC and note this review has been left voluntarily and all thoughts/opinions above are my own!
Want to thank the author for the ARC and note this review has been left voluntarily and all thoughts/opinions above are my own!
November 22, 2023
DNF @ 22% :/
July 18, 2023
5 Stars!
"Stay out of the problems of the island
Sweet Summerfae, Valentina, did not listen when she gave up the enemy’s secrets to save a loved one from an ambush in a growing war.
The War of Many is brewing
Stay away from the Wild Hunt
But it’s either escape with the gorgeous deadly Hunter whose shadows call to the darkness in her or back to the endless burning fire of Autumn Court.
The darkness of the Hunt is going to find out exactly what the light of Summer is made of
Dancing with Darkness is a slow burn, mild spice fantasy romance. The world of Eadha is full of unique fantasy creatures, magical artifacts, and tavern-type songs."
Tropes: Enemies-to-lovers, One bed/horse, grumpy/sunshine, quests.
Overall thoughts
What a joy it has been to read this book! The world building and attention to every detail needed to really bring the reader into this world is impeccable. You really get a sense of the world around the characters. There are 6 Courts, Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter, Court of Shadows, and the Courtless where each court has control of a section of these lands, a primary resource that each court controls and, powers given under that court. Characters are authentic and truly themselves. Every twist and turn kept me enthralled. As someone that loves to read and "figure out" the ending before it happens, I truly was kept on my toes as every scene of action contained something that I did not expect.
I have read a decent amount of "shadow" king books, but this went above and beyond my expectation. Our MMC reminds me of Adrian from King of Battle and Blood - with the exception that Adrian was sweet and patient and our MMC Kaderyn is more attitudy - but the level of touch her and die was just *chef's kiss) I thoroughly enjoyed the plot of this story.
This book is a very slow burn - which I have to say I am typically not a fan of - however this is the exception. It had me on the edge of my seat begging - dying - for something to manifest. The cliff hanger has me completely consumed and I will be choking until the next book in the series releases. I finished this book last night and have been consumed with thinking about it all day now at work. Sorry boss!
Characters
Valentina
Valentina is a fae from the Summer Court who was safe insider her home court, in the theater which she worked in. But appearances aren't always what they seem. She is blessed - or cursed - with special powers that she is not fully aware of. In an effort to protect her lover and others that she loves, Val ends up in a cross-court travel which proves to be a bigger adventure than she had ever imagined.
Val is a perfectly developed character. I cannot tell you how many times I wished our main character Valentina would do something or something but alass she was her own "person." I love how well the author created the flaws of each character and made it real. I often times find that character "flaws" can either fall flat or can make a person hate a character so much that there is little the author can do to change that opinion but this was not the case.
Kaderyn
Our mysterious MMC is more than meets initially meets the eye. He is the Lord of the Shadow Court and the fallen leader of the Wild Hunt. He is drawn to a terrified and helpless Summer fae which he bargains for her safety. After gaining her freedom, Kade and Val travel Eadha to return her back to her Court and for Kade to find what was rightfully his. Kade is grumpy, but protective. He is joined by 2 followers, which he has helped rescue before gaining their loyalty, who have aided his ultimate quest.
Final Thoughts
This is a fantastic book that I am excited to read the rest of the series when it releases. The world building is beautiful and really paints a picture that the read can easily be engulfed in. I would HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone that loves The Witcher, ACOTAR, or Grumpy Shadow kings with Sunshine FMCs that are greater than they even realize.
Thank you to the author for providing me with a free e-ARC to read and review. This review and thoughts are completely my own and have not been provided to me.
"Stay out of the problems of the island
Sweet Summerfae, Valentina, did not listen when she gave up the enemy’s secrets to save a loved one from an ambush in a growing war.
The War of Many is brewing
Stay away from the Wild Hunt
But it’s either escape with the gorgeous deadly Hunter whose shadows call to the darkness in her or back to the endless burning fire of Autumn Court.
The darkness of the Hunt is going to find out exactly what the light of Summer is made of
Dancing with Darkness is a slow burn, mild spice fantasy romance. The world of Eadha is full of unique fantasy creatures, magical artifacts, and tavern-type songs."
Tropes: Enemies-to-lovers, One bed/horse, grumpy/sunshine, quests.
Overall thoughts
What a joy it has been to read this book! The world building and attention to every detail needed to really bring the reader into this world is impeccable. You really get a sense of the world around the characters. There are 6 Courts, Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter, Court of Shadows, and the Courtless where each court has control of a section of these lands, a primary resource that each court controls and, powers given under that court. Characters are authentic and truly themselves. Every twist and turn kept me enthralled. As someone that loves to read and "figure out" the ending before it happens, I truly was kept on my toes as every scene of action contained something that I did not expect.
I have read a decent amount of "shadow" king books, but this went above and beyond my expectation. Our MMC reminds me of Adrian from King of Battle and Blood - with the exception that Adrian was sweet and patient and our MMC Kaderyn is more attitudy - but the level of touch her and die was just *chef's kiss) I thoroughly enjoyed the plot of this story.
This book is a very slow burn - which I have to say I am typically not a fan of - however this is the exception. It had me on the edge of my seat begging - dying - for something to manifest. The cliff hanger has me completely consumed and I will be choking until the next book in the series releases. I finished this book last night and have been consumed with thinking about it all day now at work. Sorry boss!
Characters
Valentina
Valentina is a fae from the Summer Court who was safe insider her home court, in the theater which she worked in. But appearances aren't always what they seem. She is blessed - or cursed - with special powers that she is not fully aware of. In an effort to protect her lover and others that she loves, Val ends up in a cross-court travel which proves to be a bigger adventure than she had ever imagined.
Val is a perfectly developed character. I cannot tell you how many times I wished our main character Valentina would do something or something but alass she was her own "person." I love how well the author created the flaws of each character and made it real. I often times find that character "flaws" can either fall flat or can make a person hate a character so much that there is little the author can do to change that opinion but this was not the case.
Kaderyn
Our mysterious MMC is more than meets initially meets the eye. He is the Lord of the Shadow Court and the fallen leader of the Wild Hunt. He is drawn to a terrified and helpless Summer fae which he bargains for her safety. After gaining her freedom, Kade and Val travel Eadha to return her back to her Court and for Kade to find what was rightfully his. Kade is grumpy, but protective. He is joined by 2 followers, which he has helped rescue before gaining their loyalty, who have aided his ultimate quest.
Final Thoughts
This is a fantastic book that I am excited to read the rest of the series when it releases. The world building is beautiful and really paints a picture that the read can easily be engulfed in. I would HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone that loves The Witcher, ACOTAR, or Grumpy Shadow kings with Sunshine FMCs that are greater than they even realize.
Thank you to the author for providing me with a free e-ARC to read and review. This review and thoughts are completely my own and have not been provided to me.
June 27, 2023
Dancing with Darkness by HJ Reese ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Dancing with Darkness is the debut novel written by HJ Reese. I ARC read this book and, in exchange, I am leaving an honest review.
From the beginning, this book pulled me into the world of Eadha and the lives of Valentina and Kaderyn. It was truly difficult to put down, the mysteries and quick pace keep the pages turning.
We first met Valentina as a faeling in the midst of a crisis. We gain a peak at her strange power before tragedy strikes. Valentina is a summerfae, born and raised in summer court, she has the telltale water magic associated with those of summer, but she also has a unique magic, kept hidden from others.
When this magic is discovered by the cruel General Mohr of Autumn Court, he takes Val from Summer with the intention of using her as a weapon against a mutual enemy, Winter.
Enter Kaderyn, the Lord of Shadows and fallen leader of the Wild Hunt. Inexplicably drawn to the terrified fae at the feet of General Mohr. Kade seizes the opportunity to free her and makes a deal the General cannot refuse.
Kade and Val travel Eadha together, Val on a mission to return to Summer and check on the welfare of her friends left behind, and Kade desperate to regain the shadows stolen from him centuries ago.
Their adventure is wrought with danger, mystery, and a growing attraction they both are desperate to ignore.
Dancing with Darkness is NOT 🚫 a dark romance.
It IS ✅ a slow burn with tropes such as: grumpy/sunshine, enemies to lovers, found family, quests, chosen one, and one bed/one horse!
Dancing with Darkness is the debut novel written by HJ Reese. I ARC read this book and, in exchange, I am leaving an honest review.
From the beginning, this book pulled me into the world of Eadha and the lives of Valentina and Kaderyn. It was truly difficult to put down, the mysteries and quick pace keep the pages turning.
We first met Valentina as a faeling in the midst of a crisis. We gain a peak at her strange power before tragedy strikes. Valentina is a summerfae, born and raised in summer court, she has the telltale water magic associated with those of summer, but she also has a unique magic, kept hidden from others.
When this magic is discovered by the cruel General Mohr of Autumn Court, he takes Val from Summer with the intention of using her as a weapon against a mutual enemy, Winter.
Enter Kaderyn, the Lord of Shadows and fallen leader of the Wild Hunt. Inexplicably drawn to the terrified fae at the feet of General Mohr. Kade seizes the opportunity to free her and makes a deal the General cannot refuse.
Kade and Val travel Eadha together, Val on a mission to return to Summer and check on the welfare of her friends left behind, and Kade desperate to regain the shadows stolen from him centuries ago.
Their adventure is wrought with danger, mystery, and a growing attraction they both are desperate to ignore.
Dancing with Darkness is NOT 🚫 a dark romance.
It IS ✅ a slow burn with tropes such as: grumpy/sunshine, enemies to lovers, found family, quests, chosen one, and one bed/one horse!
July 2, 2023
The blurb was not wrong, I could definitely see similarities to The Witcher and ACOTAR and I loved it! A Summerfae, Valentina, being taken captive by a different court only to see herself unexpectedly tied to the Lord of Shadows and fallen leader of The Wild Hunt, Kaderyn. A trek across the courts with a unconventional found family, in search of Kaderyn’s shadows during the brink of war. And a slow burn, grumpy/sunshine romance that leaves you wanting more.
The gorgeous cover is what originally drew me in, along with the premise of The Wild Hunt being tied in. Not only were we given some vivid world building, but also some amazing characters! The multi-POV story really helps get you in the mindset of young, innocent Valentina and morally grey Kaderyn as they embark on a journey that neither one of them had anticipated, especially not together. Dancing with Darkness was a fast paced read that pulled me in right away and I could not put I down! Seeing their relationship develop and how Kaderyn starts questioning his motives because of Valentina was very intriguing. I really hope that we get more background on the absent gods in the next book and I can’t wait to see how things develop regarding Valentina’s powers and the relationship between Valentina and Kaderyn!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The gorgeous cover is what originally drew me in, along with the premise of The Wild Hunt being tied in. Not only were we given some vivid world building, but also some amazing characters! The multi-POV story really helps get you in the mindset of young, innocent Valentina and morally grey Kaderyn as they embark on a journey that neither one of them had anticipated, especially not together. Dancing with Darkness was a fast paced read that pulled me in right away and I could not put I down! Seeing their relationship develop and how Kaderyn starts questioning his motives because of Valentina was very intriguing. I really hope that we get more background on the absent gods in the next book and I can’t wait to see how things develop regarding Valentina’s powers and the relationship between Valentina and Kaderyn!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 16, 2025
I really loved this book!! It's a slow burn romantasy, and I mean slooooow but in a good way, there is no spice between or FMC & MMC in this book (hoping that changes in book #2), the FMC has a lover at the beginning of the book, but its not a very spicy scene, very mild. The narration was great.
Val, the FMC, is a Summer Court water fae, but has a hidden ability to take on someone's pain. She performs her trick on the customers that come to the theater where she lives & works. So it has a magical reputation that keep clients coming back. She is outed by one of the women working at the theater, and taken by the Autumn Court's General to take his pain. Enter our MMC, Kaderyn Lord of the Shadow Court, fallen leader of the Wild Hunt, who has lost his shadows and has to find them & reclaim them so he can go home & rejoin the Wild Hunt. He sees her being abused and bargains for "time" with her, he gets her away from her captors and releases her. Quickly realizing she will die without his help they travel together, looking for his shadows, meeting friends & fighting enemies & monsters along the way.
Can't wait for the next book in the series to be released!!
Val, the FMC, is a Summer Court water fae, but has a hidden ability to take on someone's pain. She performs her trick on the customers that come to the theater where she lives & works. So it has a magical reputation that keep clients coming back. She is outed by one of the women working at the theater, and taken by the Autumn Court's General to take his pain. Enter our MMC, Kaderyn Lord of the Shadow Court, fallen leader of the Wild Hunt, who has lost his shadows and has to find them & reclaim them so he can go home & rejoin the Wild Hunt. He sees her being abused and bargains for "time" with her, he gets her away from her captors and releases her. Quickly realizing she will die without his help they travel together, looking for his shadows, meeting friends & fighting enemies & monsters along the way.
Can't wait for the next book in the series to be released!!
January 22, 2024
After a reading drought, Dancing with Darkness was exactly what I needed in a book right now. This book is giving Hades and Persephone, and I love that. Valentina, an innocent summer fae is thrown into a violent world unknown to her outside of the theater. She is taken by Mohr who uses her for her magic. He is absolutely awful. To be honest, I almost stopped reading from the way he treated Valentina. It was pretty violent and heart-wrenching, and this was before I even grew an attachment to her character.
She then meets Kaderyn, a now fae from the Underworld searching for his shadows, with a pixie named Teal accompanying him. He essentially saves her from the grasp of Mohr. After that, they go on an adventure to find Kaderyn's shadows. Valentina and Kaderyn initially have no interest in each other but soon find themselves longing for the other.
This book was enjoyable to read. If you love fantasy and romance, this is for you. I love slow-burn romances and listen, this is definitely a slow-burn. It's not too spicy but contains just the right amount to leave you longing for more, much like the characters themselves. Dancing with Darkness has likable characters and an intriguing plot that makes you want to read more.
Valentina and Kaderyn's attraction for each other is not hidden, so far no games are being played. Just pure attraction and budding love. My favorite part is that Kaderyn has shadows that are always with him. An extension of him, his shadows always find a way to gently caress her.
“What is it you like?” “The shadows.” For the past two days, they’d been curled through her hair, searching the coarse furs, eager to lie against her skin. I choked back the words. They like you, too.
When I finally made it to the end of the book, there was no hesitation. I immediately bought the second in the trilogy. Overall, Dancing with Darkness was fun and refreshing to read. I cannot wait to see how their relationship revolves and to know what happens to the world around them.
She then meets Kaderyn, a now fae from the Underworld searching for his shadows, with a pixie named Teal accompanying him. He essentially saves her from the grasp of Mohr. After that, they go on an adventure to find Kaderyn's shadows. Valentina and Kaderyn initially have no interest in each other but soon find themselves longing for the other.
This book was enjoyable to read. If you love fantasy and romance, this is for you. I love slow-burn romances and listen, this is definitely a slow-burn. It's not too spicy but contains just the right amount to leave you longing for more, much like the characters themselves. Dancing with Darkness has likable characters and an intriguing plot that makes you want to read more.
Valentina and Kaderyn's attraction for each other is not hidden, so far no games are being played. Just pure attraction and budding love. My favorite part is that Kaderyn has shadows that are always with him. An extension of him, his shadows always find a way to gently caress her.
“What is it you like?” “The shadows.” For the past two days, they’d been curled through her hair, searching the coarse furs, eager to lie against her skin. I choked back the words. They like you, too.
When I finally made it to the end of the book, there was no hesitation. I immediately bought the second in the trilogy. Overall, Dancing with Darkness was fun and refreshing to read. I cannot wait to see how their relationship revolves and to know what happens to the world around them.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 17, 2024
She's a Summer fae with a secret. He's a Hunter in the Wild Hunt desperately trying to return to the Underworld. Once worlds apart—now leashed together. Summerfae, Valentina, did not listen when she gave up the enemy’s secrets to save a loved one from an ambush in a growing war.
Now those secrets take her to the frontlines, captive to the worst court of all—the firefae to the east and evil General Mohr.
But it’s either escape with the gorgeous deadly Hunter whose shadows call to the darkness in her or back to the endless burning fire of Autumn Court.
And they could never be more at odds. Valentina’s hate for Kaderyn’s arrogance is enough to draw the attention of absent gods. The two are forced on a quest for survival across an island of deceiving fae, dangerous monsters, and meddling, rhyming pixies that won't shut up. But that hate soon transforms into a desire neither expect as she lights a path through his darkness, and his shadows start leading her home. Loved the growing attraction between these two. Looking forward to book 2
Now those secrets take her to the frontlines, captive to the worst court of all—the firefae to the east and evil General Mohr.
But it’s either escape with the gorgeous deadly Hunter whose shadows call to the darkness in her or back to the endless burning fire of Autumn Court.
And they could never be more at odds. Valentina’s hate for Kaderyn’s arrogance is enough to draw the attention of absent gods. The two are forced on a quest for survival across an island of deceiving fae, dangerous monsters, and meddling, rhyming pixies that won't shut up. But that hate soon transforms into a desire neither expect as she lights a path through his darkness, and his shadows start leading her home. Loved the growing attraction between these two. Looking forward to book 2
May 12, 2025
3.5 🌟
0.5🌶
I was confused up until around pg.75 as I felt you get thrown in with not much explanation for the world and I'm glad I read the description on the book beforehand.
I definitely started skimming to read it all, and as there was a lot of filler text between dialogue that wasn't needed.
This 1st book does attempt to set up the series, but the FMC's motivations are lacklustre at best. The MMC definitely had a better focus since his story was more thought out, but it was still very basic to me.
I understand some were frustrated by lack of spice, but I think it definitely suits the slower burn style the series has. The spice does heat up in the next books, but these books are not centred around the spice at all and are not super detailed.
Overall, it was a good book. I don't regret reading it. As a standalone, I would not recommend it. However, after reading the next books in the series, I would recommend to anyone who is happy to handle less spice, a bit of filler text, and a basic story.
0.5🌶
I was confused up until around pg.75 as I felt you get thrown in with not much explanation for the world and I'm glad I read the description on the book beforehand.
I definitely started skimming to read it all, and as there was a lot of filler text between dialogue that wasn't needed.
This 1st book does attempt to set up the series, but the FMC's motivations are lacklustre at best. The MMC definitely had a better focus since his story was more thought out, but it was still very basic to me.
I understand some were frustrated by lack of spice, but I think it definitely suits the slower burn style the series has. The spice does heat up in the next books, but these books are not centred around the spice at all and are not super detailed.
Overall, it was a good book. I don't regret reading it. As a standalone, I would not recommend it. However, after reading the next books in the series, I would recommend to anyone who is happy to handle less spice, a bit of filler text, and a basic story.
July 3, 2023
Wow. This an easy, entertaining read and yes, as the others said, this book will get you hooked from the beginning. Here I am writing a review at 1.34AM.
I'm giving it 4⭐ because of above said and for Teal (yes you have to read it to know her)
I can see why it would be described as a Witcher meets ACOTAR book but only for the Witcher being there is a quest to find something powerful and the MMC being grumpy; ACOTAR because of the seasonal courts but aside from that it is far from both imo.
Dancing with Darkness has it's own charm and it's own world. I just hope there is a little more context on the Gods and how demigods exist and such as they were being mentioned several times. There are novellas about the side characters i believe and I wish they were just incorporated in the book to have helped the world-building more, the book felt short (as in, in length) for me, meaning I want more. 😁
Can't wait to read the second book.
Thank you for the ARC, i enjoyed reading.
I'm giving it 4⭐ because of above said and for Teal (yes you have to read it to know her)
I can see why it would be described as a Witcher meets ACOTAR book but only for the Witcher being there is a quest to find something powerful and the MMC being grumpy; ACOTAR because of the seasonal courts but aside from that it is far from both imo.
Dancing with Darkness has it's own charm and it's own world. I just hope there is a little more context on the Gods and how demigods exist and such as they were being mentioned several times. There are novellas about the side characters i believe and I wish they were just incorporated in the book to have helped the world-building more, the book felt short (as in, in length) for me, meaning I want more. 😁
Can't wait to read the second book.
Thank you for the ARC, i enjoyed reading.
March 6, 2024
3.5⭐️
Well written and an interesting premise.
It was a little slow - especially at the start.
There were also moments that didn’t seem to make sense. I didn’t really understand why Kade and Val didn’t remove the link when they left the cave… it didn’t seem to make sense. She thought he would do it, but he didn’t. And then he thought about how he could do it, but wouldn’t tell Val. But she’d already thought he was going to in the cave… so she knew it was a possibility. So why did they then continue to stay tethered. Didn’t make much sense to me 🤷♀️
But I am keen to find out what happens next!
Well written and an interesting premise.
It was a little slow - especially at the start.
There were also moments that didn’t seem to make sense. I didn’t really understand why Kade and Val didn’t remove the link when they left the cave… it didn’t seem to make sense. She thought he would do it, but he didn’t. And then he thought about how he could do it, but wouldn’t tell Val. But she’d already thought he was going to in the cave… so she knew it was a possibility. So why did they then continue to stay tethered. Didn’t make much sense to me 🤷♀️
But I am keen to find out what happens next!
June 29, 2023
This was SO unbelievably good, I was immediately engrossed in it and couldn’t put it down. I LOVE the Witcher, and it’s one of my favorite series - and so it came naturally to love this. The main character is very well written and intelligent, and it was sad to see her both literally and figuratively take on so much pain. I actually am very hype for this series, as it has so much potential. Cant wait to see more!.
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
3.5 stars. I don’t know what it is but I AM DOWN BAD for fae books right now (I am ashamed, but not ashamed enough to avoid documenting this brief lapse of judgement on GR). 🤷🏼♀️
This book was a slow burn for me— the world building took quite a bit of time for me to adjust to, but I got there in the end (and I eagerly await the second book’s release in a few days). I thoroughly enjoyed Kade, Val, Jair, and Teal! I also loved that this novel prioritized fantastical world-building, friendly banter, and slow-burn romance over majorly steamy material. It was a fun-read!
This book was a slow burn for me— the world building took quite a bit of time for me to adjust to, but I got there in the end (and I eagerly await the second book’s release in a few days). I thoroughly enjoyed Kade, Val, Jair, and Teal! I also loved that this novel prioritized fantastical world-building, friendly banter, and slow-burn romance over majorly steamy material. It was a fun-read!
October 24, 2023
This book is really slow. There wasn’t a lot of action and it is more of the FMC & MMC were camping and traveling to go camping again. I was really distracted on how much they all must of stunk. I am so glad that there was no spice. There was one spice scene but it was FTB and even then I was like ew 😖 Cillian is dirty and stinky and FMC is stinky.
I wouldn’t compare this book to The Witcher or ACOTAR. The only similarity is that they are are fantasies.
I may read the other book because I am just curious to see what happens when the FMC possibly reunites with her “friend”
I wouldn’t compare this book to The Witcher or ACOTAR. The only similarity is that they are are fantasies.
I may read the other book because I am just curious to see what happens when the FMC possibly reunites with her “friend”
March 20, 2024
I liked it
It's pretty slow, but I liked it!
There's a lot of character and world building.
And while Valentina might be a bit meek, I really liked her. She understood that her actions held consequences, and I think that was my favorite thing about her because it's just so rare in books.
The premise is engaging, and I'm curious about where the plot will go. A lot has been set up with key players so I'm eager to see where this goes.
It's pretty slow, but I liked it!
There's a lot of character and world building.
And while Valentina might be a bit meek, I really liked her. She understood that her actions held consequences, and I think that was my favorite thing about her because it's just so rare in books.
The premise is engaging, and I'm curious about where the plot will go. A lot has been set up with key players so I'm eager to see where this goes.
June 14, 2024
Meh on the Young end of NA. Should probably be labeled Young Adult to be honest. Very clean. Your typical dainty fair holier than thou FC and a try to be bad boy MC.
I think when authors put “heat and intrigue go up in book 2!” Is a cop out. And what that tells me is there’s barely anything in book 1 since it’s nothing but a setup to the “better” book 2. There’s no reason for that except as a money grab. So no thanks. 🙂↔️
I think when authors put “heat and intrigue go up in book 2!” Is a cop out. And what that tells me is there’s barely anything in book 1 since it’s nothing but a setup to the “better” book 2. There’s no reason for that except as a money grab. So no thanks. 🙂↔️
February 21, 2024
I think the plot of the book needs to be fleshed out more.
I didn't enjoy the min character and her origin story.
She is booking up with a spring fae, but the way she cares for him confuses the main story with the shadow fae love interest.
Then there is this random shadow fae and their combined adventures are not that exciting
Overall - I wouldn't read the next book in the series.
I didn't enjoy the min character and her origin story.
She is booking up with a spring fae, but the way she cares for him confuses the main story with the shadow fae love interest.
Then there is this random shadow fae and their combined adventures are not that exciting
Overall - I wouldn't read the next book in the series.
May 18, 2024
Fantastic
This book kept my eyes and mind engrossed and reading last my bedtime. There were a couple of glitches in which it appeared that the fact the two main characters were "tied togdther" was forgotten, however, they did not compromise the story. Definitely next book please!
This book kept my eyes and mind engrossed and reading last my bedtime. There were a couple of glitches in which it appeared that the fact the two main characters were "tied togdther" was forgotten, however, they did not compromise the story. Definitely next book please!
September 6, 2024
Entertaining! Writing isn't anything incredible but it is readable and engaging. FMC is used to being taken advantage of and used and then ends up with the dark broody villainous type who isn't really. A very predictable story line of MMC becoming super protective and obsessed with dainty frail insecure FMC... but still a fun read.
October 2, 2024
Too good to put down
I made the mistake of starting this book before bed. Needless to say I read 65% of the book in the first sitting and only got 2 hours of sleep. The story starts pretty slow but once it picked up it really didn't stop. Not spicy, but that night change in the next book.
I made the mistake of starting this book before bed. Needless to say I read 65% of the book in the first sitting and only got 2 hours of sleep. The story starts pretty slow but once it picked up it really didn't stop. Not spicy, but that night change in the next book.
January 31, 2025
2.5 - Not quite sure what happened in this book. It was a really interesting idea but this story went nowhere. The relationships between characters fell flat and the only character I did like was a small side character. I think the author had too many ideas on what they wanted to accomplish but couldn’t fill the minor spaces in between to really hook the reader.
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