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Courts of Malice #2
A Dream of Fate & Flesh
In a realm where dreams and reality collide…
Rejected by the prince she was falling for, Alessia struggles to acclimate to her new life in Terra Court. But when Rainer's deepest secret is revealed and his life is put in jeopardy, Alessia must push past her own discomforts and embark on a journey to save him. With the help of two mischievous faeries, each with their own hidden motives, Alessia soon uncovers the true nature of Avylon. Bargains, tricks, and manipulation lurk around every corner. To survive, she realizes she must become like the fae. But how far must she go to rescue Rainer?
She’s his flicker of hope in the shadows…
Despite the challenges he's currently facing, Rainer holds onto a newfound sense of hope. Hope that his court can be transformed into something better, that his curse can be shattered, and that he can finally prove himself deserving of Alessia. However, when one of his greatest fears becomes a reality, he loses everything he fought to protect. Rainer must come to terms with his inner demons and embrace his true self while ensuring the safety of himself and his loved ones.
Alessia and Rainer must confront their pasts, embrace their presents, and fight the odds to secure their futures. But will fate be on their side?
Rejected by the prince she was falling for, Alessia struggles to acclimate to her new life in Terra Court. But when Rainer's deepest secret is revealed and his life is put in jeopardy, Alessia must push past her own discomforts and embark on a journey to save him. With the help of two mischievous faeries, each with their own hidden motives, Alessia soon uncovers the true nature of Avylon. Bargains, tricks, and manipulation lurk around every corner. To survive, she realizes she must become like the fae. But how far must she go to rescue Rainer?
She’s his flicker of hope in the shadows…
Despite the challenges he's currently facing, Rainer holds onto a newfound sense of hope. Hope that his court can be transformed into something better, that his curse can be shattered, and that he can finally prove himself deserving of Alessia. However, when one of his greatest fears becomes a reality, he loses everything he fought to protect. Rainer must come to terms with his inner demons and embrace his true self while ensuring the safety of himself and his loved ones.
Alessia and Rainer must confront their pasts, embrace their presents, and fight the odds to secure their futures. But will fate be on their side?
503 pages, Paperback
First published July 27, 2024
About the author
Miranda Joy
10 books157 followersMiranda is a fan of all things magical and romantic. She believes some of the best heroes come from dark pasts, and family is more than blood. She loves writing about strong characters who overcome unpleasant situations and find love along the way.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
August 25, 2024
"Don't be fooled by a rose's beauty, for its thorns often draw blood without mercy."
A Dream of Fate and Flesh is book two in the Courts of Malice series by Miranda Joy. This story takes place shortly after the events in book one, A Curse of Malice and Mercy. This series does need to be read in order, so be sure to start with ACOMAM first.
ADOFAF is everything I was looking for in a sequel and more! Joy had me sitting on the edge of my seat and my anxiety high starting at the 30% mark and that continued throughout the rest of the story. She expertly weaves lighthearted moments with tension and plot development. I found myself constantly questioning character's motivations and whether I could trust them. Joy has so many twists and turns in this story that culminates in an ending that tore my heart out and left me desperate for more.
Once again Alessia's character development is the start of the show. Have no fear, our favorite emo boy, Rainer, still a major role to play, but with their separation Alessia must once again fight against enemies and parts of herself in order to survive. One of the standouts for me is the range in emotions Joy had me feeling for Eoin. Annoyance to hate to empathy and pity, all in a matter of chapters.
The Courts of Malice series has quickly become a favorite from Joy, and I'm so thankful that the next book in the series is being released in a few months. I absolutely cannot wait to find out what happens next. Can't recommend this series enough!
"I was worried I'd lose myself with her, but it's incomparable to how I lose myself without her."
"We make sense together, my little rose. You're my petals, and I'm your thorns. You soften me while I sharpen you."
"Shame lies not in the possession of darkness, but in the refusal to master it."
"I will not let my love be a prison sentence for her. I will not let it hold her back."
A Dream of Fate and Flesh is book two in the Courts of Malice series by Miranda Joy. This story takes place shortly after the events in book one, A Curse of Malice and Mercy. This series does need to be read in order, so be sure to start with ACOMAM first.
ADOFAF is everything I was looking for in a sequel and more! Joy had me sitting on the edge of my seat and my anxiety high starting at the 30% mark and that continued throughout the rest of the story. She expertly weaves lighthearted moments with tension and plot development. I found myself constantly questioning character's motivations and whether I could trust them. Joy has so many twists and turns in this story that culminates in an ending that tore my heart out and left me desperate for more.
Once again Alessia's character development is the start of the show. Have no fear, our favorite emo boy, Rainer, still a major role to play, but with their separation Alessia must once again fight against enemies and parts of herself in order to survive. One of the standouts for me is the range in emotions Joy had me feeling for Eoin. Annoyance to hate to empathy and pity, all in a matter of chapters.
The Courts of Malice series has quickly become a favorite from Joy, and I'm so thankful that the next book in the series is being released in a few months. I absolutely cannot wait to find out what happens next. Can't recommend this series enough!
"I was worried I'd lose myself with her, but it's incomparable to how I lose myself without her."
"We make sense together, my little rose. You're my petals, and I'm your thorns. You soften me while I sharpen you."
"Shame lies not in the possession of darkness, but in the refusal to master it."
"I will not let my love be a prison sentence for her. I will not let it hold her back."
August 14, 2024
This ending actually enraged me so that’s nice
March 25, 2024
SOOOOO GOOD
The characters. The world. The twists and betrayals. The romance. KEN. love love love.
PLEASE GO READ A COURT OF MALICE AND MERCY SO YOU CAN READ THIS ONE WHEN IT COMES OUT!!
And of course, thank you Miranda for letting me read an early copy!! I will never get enough of your writing!
(possible more formal review to come)
The characters. The world. The twists and betrayals. The romance. KEN. love love love.
PLEASE GO READ A COURT OF MALICE AND MERCY SO YOU CAN READ THIS ONE WHEN IT COMES OUT!!
And of course, thank you Miranda for letting me read an early copy!! I will never get enough of your writing!
(possible more formal review to come)
February 5, 2025
A Dream of Fate & Flesh is a captivating fantasy novel that weaves together a rich world full of magic, complex relationships, and breathtaking romance. The story follows the journey of Alessia and Rainer as they navigate a realm where fate is malleable, and love can be both a blessing and a curse. This story truly immerses readers into its unique universe, creating a magical atmosphere that will sweep you off your feet.
The world in A Dream of Fate & Flesh is intricately designed, full of depth and life. From its stunning landscapes to the complex magic system, the setting feels alive and immersive. The plot is filled with unexpected twists, suspense, and moments of emotional depth that keep readers on the edge of their seats. The pacing is perfect, with each chapter revealing just enough to keep you hooked without giving too much away too soon.
The romance is another highlight of this book. The chemistry between the characters is electric, and their relationship evolves in such a heartfelt and natural way. There’s an undeniable connection that makes their love story feel real and relatable, even within the fantastical elements of the world. Their emotional depth and vulnerability create a bond that is easy to root for, and it’s one of the book's most rewarding aspects.
Each character is well-developed, with their own motivations, backstories, and growth arcs. The protagonist’s journey is compelling, and their relationships with others are beautifully explored. However, one minor flaw I encountered was with one of the secondary characters being referred to as "they." While I understand and appreciate the representation, it did make it a little challenging to keep track of who was being referred to at times. There were moments where I had to pause and reread to confirm which character "they" was pointing to, and it did break the flow slightly.
Despite this small hiccup, A Dream of Fate & Flesh is an incredibly well-written and enchanting novel. The romance is stunning, the world-building is second to none, and the characters are all so lovable in their own ways. I can’t recommend it enough to anyone who enjoys a blend of romance, magic, and fantasy with a dash of adventure. If you’re a fan of fantasy novels with depth and heart, this one should be at the top of your list!
The world in A Dream of Fate & Flesh is intricately designed, full of depth and life. From its stunning landscapes to the complex magic system, the setting feels alive and immersive. The plot is filled with unexpected twists, suspense, and moments of emotional depth that keep readers on the edge of their seats. The pacing is perfect, with each chapter revealing just enough to keep you hooked without giving too much away too soon.
The romance is another highlight of this book. The chemistry between the characters is electric, and their relationship evolves in such a heartfelt and natural way. There’s an undeniable connection that makes their love story feel real and relatable, even within the fantastical elements of the world. Their emotional depth and vulnerability create a bond that is easy to root for, and it’s one of the book's most rewarding aspects.
Each character is well-developed, with their own motivations, backstories, and growth arcs. The protagonist’s journey is compelling, and their relationships with others are beautifully explored. However, one minor flaw I encountered was with one of the secondary characters being referred to as "they." While I understand and appreciate the representation, it did make it a little challenging to keep track of who was being referred to at times. There were moments where I had to pause and reread to confirm which character "they" was pointing to, and it did break the flow slightly.
Despite this small hiccup, A Dream of Fate & Flesh is an incredibly well-written and enchanting novel. The romance is stunning, the world-building is second to none, and the characters are all so lovable in their own ways. I can’t recommend it enough to anyone who enjoys a blend of romance, magic, and fantasy with a dash of adventure. If you’re a fan of fantasy novels with depth and heart, this one should be at the top of your list!
August 2, 2024
Y'all, Miranda Joy has done it again with another epic romantasy featuring some amazing characters and fantastic world building. I loved all the characters in the first Courts of Malice book and Joy took everything up a notch in this second book, giving us new insights into returning characters and even more reasons to love our favorites.
I loved how much further Joy took both the world building and the character growth in this story. Alessia has had so much development since starting off in the human world in the first book. She had to face a lot of tough choices and a lot of hard truths in this story, but she's finally becoming her own person and stepping into her own power because of the journey she had to go on. I just know all of Alessia's decisions will probably come back to bite her later, but I honestly can't wait to see the fallout.
I loved all the characters who supported Alessia on her journey. Rainer is a truly surly, self-sacrificing prince, and I love who he is around Alessia. He, too, grew from the first book and I can't wait to see what their relationship means for Avylon. Ken, one of my favorite supporting characters from the first book, makes a triumphant return and has some literal laugh-out-loud moments with Alessia in this book. As the plot gets darker, I can only hope Joy not only utilizes Ken to provide much-needed comedic relief, but also keeps him safe from whatever dangers are coming for Rainer and Alessia next.
Other fae, like Eoin and Ezamae, had such back and forth bickering that I couldn't help but smile so much of the time they were on the page together. Ez is a complicated character, but I truly hope to see much more of him in the rest of Alessia and Rainer's story.
From the very start of this series, I was swept away by the lush world building and detailed character development and all those things I loved have carried through to this second installment. I was caught up in Alessia's journey from start to finish, and I can't wait to see what comes next for the denizens of Avylon.
I loved how much further Joy took both the world building and the character growth in this story. Alessia has had so much development since starting off in the human world in the first book. She had to face a lot of tough choices and a lot of hard truths in this story, but she's finally becoming her own person and stepping into her own power because of the journey she had to go on. I just know all of Alessia's decisions will probably come back to bite her later, but I honestly can't wait to see the fallout.
I loved all the characters who supported Alessia on her journey. Rainer is a truly surly, self-sacrificing prince, and I love who he is around Alessia. He, too, grew from the first book and I can't wait to see what their relationship means for Avylon. Ken, one of my favorite supporting characters from the first book, makes a triumphant return and has some literal laugh-out-loud moments with Alessia in this book. As the plot gets darker, I can only hope Joy not only utilizes Ken to provide much-needed comedic relief, but also keeps him safe from whatever dangers are coming for Rainer and Alessia next.
Other fae, like Eoin and Ezamae, had such back and forth bickering that I couldn't help but smile so much of the time they were on the page together. Ez is a complicated character, but I truly hope to see much more of him in the rest of Alessia and Rainer's story.
From the very start of this series, I was swept away by the lush world building and detailed character development and all those things I loved have carried through to this second installment. I was caught up in Alessia's journey from start to finish, and I can't wait to see what comes next for the denizens of Avylon.
July 18, 2024
I liked the book and I want to find out how the story concludes in the next book.
The fact that Alessia turned out to be fae was not exactly a surprise. Maybe it's just me, but the author alluded to this fact a lot in the previous book and in events that went down in the second book. I did find the whole situation with Rainer a bit frustrating. He keeps the heroine in the dark while suffering in silence. Then he proceeds to make a series of bad decisions that land him in a position where Alessia needs to save him. I'm all for making the heroine a strong female lead, but not at the expense of the hero's intelligence. Whether that be mental or emotional.
Alissia is betrayed by so many of the people in her life on so many different levels, even by her magic. I'm interested to see where the author goes with this and how it will develop Alessia's character - or what potential strife can come from this.
How she "earned" her power did feel a bit anticlimactic. Speaking of anticlimactic, Eion's death almost felt like an afterthought that was shoved into the chapter. Plot twist for sure, but I almost felt like that was no emotional depth to his loss.
All in all, a "stepping stone" book in this series. I do feel there was a lot more potential to develop the series, but I did get some answers to questions that I had from the previous book.
The fact that Alessia turned out to be fae was not exactly a surprise. Maybe it's just me, but the author alluded to this fact a lot in the previous book and in events that went down in the second book. I did find the whole situation with Rainer a bit frustrating. He keeps the heroine in the dark while suffering in silence. Then he proceeds to make a series of bad decisions that land him in a position where Alessia needs to save him. I'm all for making the heroine a strong female lead, but not at the expense of the hero's intelligence. Whether that be mental or emotional.
Alissia is betrayed by so many of the people in her life on so many different levels, even by her magic. I'm interested to see where the author goes with this and how it will develop Alessia's character - or what potential strife can come from this.
How she "earned" her power did feel a bit anticlimactic. Speaking of anticlimactic, Eion's death almost felt like an afterthought that was shoved into the chapter. Plot twist for sure, but I almost felt like that was no emotional depth to his loss.
All in all, a "stepping stone" book in this series. I do feel there was a lot more potential to develop the series, but I did get some answers to questions that I had from the previous book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 22, 2024
This was a long time coming…I’m so glad I got to reread book one because it reminded me of so many details that finally get explained in this one. Like Alessia being human? Or what happened to Felix and why is the terra court better?
Even better we get more plot twists! And with new characters. Ez is great, we don’t know about Sera yet and we’ll see about new human Sheila. I’m really happy with the direction this is going to. We learned about the lost court, also what happened to Alessia’s parents and wow was I surprised to see the faerie queen (a nice touch). Full of action, secrets, betrayals and self-searching Alessia is fully learning what it entails to be in the Faerie realm for real. Her character arc is definitely not the same as book one and it was great to see.
I was little heartbroken at the end there with Alessia and Rainer but it’s totally fair. Alessia is still figuring herself out. Now I will have to wait for book 3 to see if this war is happening or not.
Even better we get more plot twists! And with new characters. Ez is great, we don’t know about Sera yet and we’ll see about new human Sheila. I’m really happy with the direction this is going to. We learned about the lost court, also what happened to Alessia’s parents and wow was I surprised to see the faerie queen (a nice touch). Full of action, secrets, betrayals and self-searching Alessia is fully learning what it entails to be in the Faerie realm for real. Her character arc is definitely not the same as book one and it was great to see.
I was little heartbroken at the end there with Alessia and Rainer but it’s totally fair. Alessia is still figuring herself out. Now I will have to wait for book 3 to see if this war is happening or not.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 29, 2025
This is the second installment in the Courts of Malice series. From it you can expect even more adventure, hidden secrets, and personal growth. I can’t get enough of Miranda’s writing and the powerful messages she conveys, she has a unique talent for making you fall in love with love itself. Another thing I adore in books is how characters uplift one another, it often prompts us to reassess our self-perception and serves as a gentle reminder to strive for our best selves.
As always, Ken remains a delightful favourite, but I also appreciated the introduction of new characters. Just like in the previous novel, you will be giggling and swooning as you follow along this adventure.
Tropes:
Dual POV
Who Hurt You?
Curses
Mythical Creatures
Found Family
Magic
As always, Ken remains a delightful favourite, but I also appreciated the introduction of new characters. Just like in the previous novel, you will be giggling and swooning as you follow along this adventure.
Tropes:
Dual POV
Who Hurt You?
Curses
Mythical Creatures
Found Family
Magic
July 18, 2024
If you loved the first book in The Courts of Malice series (A Curse of Malice & Mercy) then you will ADORE book 2! I had the privilege of reading an early copy and I loved every single twist, turn, and adventure. Alessia’s character is strengthened tremendously and we get more Ken, which everyone loves! Plus new characters to pique your interest and make you think twice! 👀 Absolutely a must read book and series. I can’t wait for the conclusion! 😍
December 10, 2024
She did it again! The 2nd book in the Courts of Malice series is absolutely exquisite.
We get a 3rd POV in this one and are introduced to a couple more characters. Again, I would die for these characters.
There's betrayal, revelations, and tremendous character growth.
Chapter 13 and 14 had me screeching. My fiancé was giving me weird looks lol.
I can't say much more without spoiling but I can't wait to start the final book and see how this story ends.
We get a 3rd POV in this one and are introduced to a couple more characters. Again, I would die for these characters.
There's betrayal, revelations, and tremendous character growth.
Chapter 13 and 14 had me screeching. My fiancé was giving me weird looks lol.
I can't say much more without spoiling but I can't wait to start the final book and see how this story ends.
October 29, 2024
Lots of soul searching in this book, along with understanding and acceptance your self. Alessia embarks on a journey to save Rainer, and along the way finds alliances and tentative friendships, along with losses and betrayal. She accomplishes what she has to do in the end, but also has to give up what her heart wants in order to come to terms with what she is.
July 26, 2024
It was hard to lock in on this book.
this was simply not a fun read in my opinion , seemed like a lot of middle and it very much lacked spice and the romantic elements it initially had in book 1
this was simply not a fun read in my opinion , seemed like a lot of middle and it very much lacked spice and the romantic elements it initially had in book 1
August 2, 2024
I LOVED (!!!!) the first book in this series and couldn’t wait to read the second, but I felt like this book was possibly rushed and felt like the character development with Rainer and Alessia just wasn’t there.
October 1, 2024
great read.
great second book, the continuation from book one is seamless, it’s dark fantasy also wildly cute, heavy and funny, of course like book one I was sobbing at the ending, loved it.
great second book, the continuation from book one is seamless, it’s dark fantasy also wildly cute, heavy and funny, of course like book one I was sobbing at the ending, loved it.
July 22, 2024
3.5⭐️
September 17, 2024
Delicious follow-up in the Courts of Malice series.
Miranda's second book in the series picks up exactly where the last book left off, letting the reader see the aftermath of the characters' cliffhangers. This book has our MMC and FMC separated, but they are desperate to get each other back. When Alessia must save Rainer from a new foe, she goes on an adventure with two unlikely companions...one with deadly consequences and a twist I did not see coming!
Miranda expands on the new relationship between Alessia and Rainer in the best ways, edging them closer together as they explore the bond between them.
My favorite part is that while Rainer is the darker character in book 1, Miranda pulls back the curtain on Alessia as a character and the view is something altogether fascinating and equally as dark. It makes for a dark and dastardly ride that you do not want to miss!
Miranda's second book in the series picks up exactly where the last book left off, letting the reader see the aftermath of the characters' cliffhangers. This book has our MMC and FMC separated, but they are desperate to get each other back. When Alessia must save Rainer from a new foe, she goes on an adventure with two unlikely companions...one with deadly consequences and a twist I did not see coming!
Miranda expands on the new relationship between Alessia and Rainer in the best ways, edging them closer together as they explore the bond between them.
My favorite part is that while Rainer is the darker character in book 1, Miranda pulls back the curtain on Alessia as a character and the view is something altogether fascinating and equally as dark. It makes for a dark and dastardly ride that you do not want to miss!
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews