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Knights Dream #2
Winter Knights Dream
Lyra's Summer dreams come true, but her first rejection sparks is he a villain or a victim?
Lyra has found the happiness she once thought was only a dream with her Summer Mate. He is everything she could have hoped for, and with his unwavering loyalty, she has finally found peace and restored her faith in fate.
However, the shadow of Axel's rejection still lingers, and his unrelenting presence sparks questions about his true intentions.
As a dissenting coalition emerges in the kingdom, Axel's involvement comes into question, forcing Lyra to confront her feelings and decide whether he is truly the villain or the victim.
This book series is an Adult Fantasy Romance not intended for young readers. The characters in this book have multiple partners and fated mates. (Why choose) These relationships are inclusive.
**This book will end on a cliffhanger!**
If you are not comfortable with LGBTQ+, multiple partners, open relationships, or poly, please avoid this book series.
**Themes and tropes in this book bonded, bullying, cliffhanger, enemies to lovers, fated mates, forced proximity, inst-love, love triangle, multiple pov, other-women-drama, second chance, secret identity, slow burn, smut/sexually graphic scenes with explicit language & description, soulmates, steamy/suggestive scenes, unrequited love
Lyra has found the happiness she once thought was only a dream with her Summer Mate. He is everything she could have hoped for, and with his unwavering loyalty, she has finally found peace and restored her faith in fate.
However, the shadow of Axel's rejection still lingers, and his unrelenting presence sparks questions about his true intentions.
As a dissenting coalition emerges in the kingdom, Axel's involvement comes into question, forcing Lyra to confront her feelings and decide whether he is truly the villain or the victim.
This book series is an Adult Fantasy Romance not intended for young readers. The characters in this book have multiple partners and fated mates. (Why choose) These relationships are inclusive.
**This book will end on a cliffhanger!**
If you are not comfortable with LGBTQ+, multiple partners, open relationships, or poly, please avoid this book series.
**Themes and tropes in this book bonded, bullying, cliffhanger, enemies to lovers, fated mates, forced proximity, inst-love, love triangle, multiple pov, other-women-drama, second chance, secret identity, slow burn, smut/sexually graphic scenes with explicit language & description, soulmates, steamy/suggestive scenes, unrequited love
221 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 20, 2023
249 people are currently reading
620 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 142 reviews
March 22, 2024
EEEE i need book #3 stat, this was even more fun than the first book, and so much more lovable because i was finally able to fully crush on a mmc!!! i love our obsessed sweetheart summer knight, and already obsessed with the winter knight from his one page. and i hate to say it, but axel is growing on me…
June 14, 2023
5⭐️
3🔥
I got an ARC of this one and demolished it in under 24 hours! I absolutely loved this one and can not wait for the next. I was smiling, giggling and blushing throughout this one. This one picks up right where we left off with Lyra meeting her next mate/knight Vale and he is the golden retriever! He is so freaking sweet, adorning and possessive of her. He is everything she deserved in a mate, especially after being rejected by her first. You do learn some things about her rejected mate that makes you question if things are really as they seem. I’m pulling for an HEA for all! I’m a sucker for Axel, the rejected mate! 💔 More world building, more plot building, more romance and spice! It ends on another cliff hanger that has me foaming at the mouth for the next one!! I think the next mate and the next book might be my favorite yet!
Thank you so much to Ariadne for the ARC!
3🔥
I got an ARC of this one and demolished it in under 24 hours! I absolutely loved this one and can not wait for the next. I was smiling, giggling and blushing throughout this one. This one picks up right where we left off with Lyra meeting her next mate/knight Vale and he is the golden retriever! He is so freaking sweet, adorning and possessive of her. He is everything she deserved in a mate, especially after being rejected by her first. You do learn some things about her rejected mate that makes you question if things are really as they seem. I’m pulling for an HEA for all! I’m a sucker for Axel, the rejected mate! 💔 More world building, more plot building, more romance and spice! It ends on another cliff hanger that has me foaming at the mouth for the next one!! I think the next mate and the next book might be my favorite yet!
Thank you so much to Ariadne for the ARC!
December 25, 2024
Definitely not as good as the first but tons more 🌶️. I’m not a fan of these plot holes and I hope there is more development in book 3.
When is book 3 publishing, again?
June 14, 2023
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I devoured this book!! Ariadne is an amazing writer and I love that she incorporates drama into her books without her characters coming off as immature! Lyra is a strong and beautiful female lead. I loved watching her relationship grow with Vale. I know that there is a reason behind Axels actions but I just want to strangle him more than forgive him still, we need to see some major groveling lol. Lastly, who is out winter knight! That ending was great and I can’t wait to discover the identity of Lyras next mate.
I devoured this book!! Ariadne is an amazing writer and I love that she incorporates drama into her books without her characters coming off as immature! Lyra is a strong and beautiful female lead. I loved watching her relationship grow with Vale. I know that there is a reason behind Axels actions but I just want to strangle him more than forgive him still, we need to see some major groveling lol. Lastly, who is out winter knight! That ending was great and I can’t wait to discover the identity of Lyras next mate.
July 20, 2023
This was a marked improvement for me from the first book. We've jumped from a 1.5 to a 3.5. This hoovers somewhere between being very ok and liking it.
It's still plagued by a lot of the things I didn't like about the first one, but there is an actual romance in here, and there is no bullying. The first 3 chapters with Vale were a redemption for this series. THIS IS WHAT I WANT TO SEE. Dragon-shifting. Obsessed. Devoted and Protective. Undying and unquestioned love in words and actions.
The Axel thing is overplayed. Like how many books can we drag out that he's been coerced and magically gagged ('gaes'ed lol). Maybe I'm Puck, because even with the emotional share, I'm not convinced enough groveling has occurred. However, THIS IS WHAT I WANT TO SEE. Emotions and power sharing over mate bonds. Wolf shifting. Cleaning wounds. Obsessed and protective. Chef's kiss.
The mate cliffhanger gets me every time. This was much easier since I didn't hate it. If this were a finished series, I could see myself plowing through just to see how all the dudes work together, but honestly, I don't think I'll remember the series enough to check back in.
I know these are supposed to be separate books, but they definitely read like book part 1 and book part 2. I do think I struggle because there is no real arc in the book. It's not really aligning with the traditional 3 or 5 or 7 point plot structure - which is not a bad thing...it's just weird. The closest thing to a climax is the earthquake scene, but that doesn't feel genuinely climactic for the book nor the series....it feels like something that just happened. Maybe we'll call it cozy because even when the stakes are supposedly high like our FMC put in mortal danger, there are no consequences or stakes. Everything feels a bit girly pop.
I'm a very plot driven reader, I think I'm getting used to the fact that there is plot, but this may be more for the vibes. The vibes are more entuned in this one. I still don't get a lot of fae inspiration, but very heavy with school-vibe, mate-vibe, alpha/possessive-vibe.
I think this book still struggles, but it markedly improved over the first. Even though there were slower parts, I wasn't constantly considering DNFing. I'm starting to see the vision. Only time will tell if I remember if this exists by the time the next novel comes out, but I'm rooting that this series gets better with each book.
Teenage Squealing - Solid 3/5
Eye roll inducing cringe dialog - enough to give a Prius a good charge.
It's still plagued by a lot of the things I didn't like about the first one, but there is an actual romance in here, and there is no bullying. The first 3 chapters with Vale were a redemption for this series. THIS IS WHAT I WANT TO SEE. Dragon-shifting. Obsessed. Devoted and Protective. Undying and unquestioned love in words and actions.
The Axel thing is overplayed. Like how many books can we drag out that he's been coerced and magically gagged ('gaes'ed lol). Maybe I'm Puck, because even with the emotional share, I'm not convinced enough groveling has occurred. However, THIS IS WHAT I WANT TO SEE. Emotions and power sharing over mate bonds. Wolf shifting. Cleaning wounds. Obsessed and protective. Chef's kiss.
The mate cliffhanger gets me every time. This was much easier since I didn't hate it. If this were a finished series, I could see myself plowing through just to see how all the dudes work together, but honestly, I don't think I'll remember the series enough to check back in.
I know these are supposed to be separate books, but they definitely read like book part 1 and book part 2. I do think I struggle because there is no real arc in the book. It's not really aligning with the traditional 3 or 5 or 7 point plot structure - which is not a bad thing...it's just weird. The closest thing to a climax is the earthquake scene, but that doesn't feel genuinely climactic for the book nor the series....it feels like something that just happened. Maybe we'll call it cozy because even when the stakes are supposedly high like our FMC put in mortal danger, there are no consequences or stakes. Everything feels a bit girly pop.
I'm a very plot driven reader, I think I'm getting used to the fact that there is plot, but this may be more for the vibes. The vibes are more entuned in this one. I still don't get a lot of fae inspiration, but very heavy with school-vibe, mate-vibe, alpha/possessive-vibe.
I think this book still struggles, but it markedly improved over the first. Even though there were slower parts, I wasn't constantly considering DNFing. I'm starting to see the vision. Only time will tell if I remember if this exists by the time the next novel comes out, but I'm rooting that this series gets better with each book.
Teenage Squealing - Solid 3/5
Eye roll inducing cringe dialog - enough to give a Prius a good charge.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 16, 2024
Winter Knight’s Dream
I didn’t think that Summer Knights Dream could have been bettered but this second book tops it. I was really invested in Lyra’s story, this book picking up from where we left the story with Lyra meeting Vale, her second mate. My heart bleeds for Lyra, Axel destroyed her self confidence and belief in the mate bond, it’s a joy to read how her relationship with Vale develops and heals her. Vale is a real sweetheart, just what she needs after Axels cruelty.
Love the world building as we discover more about the courts and how they ended up with the current system, the wars between the courts and the hard won peace. That there are now rebel factions seeking power for themselves yet again.trying to usurp the peaceful current system. I wasn’t sure which direction the story would go in after that he first book but the story is fast paced and full of intrigue.
I have so many unanswered questions still, definitely wondering now about Axels involvement. After hating him in the first book, I feel kind of sorry for him here. Love the fact he seems to be remorseful now and regretting his awful behaviour.
Good to find out more about Axel and his family, his father is shaping up to be a real villain and sure we’ll see more of him in the next books. This book was definitely filled with a lot more spice, some red hot action, a definite plus for me.
Again I find I’m desperate to find out where we go next, such a great story.
I didn’t think that Summer Knights Dream could have been bettered but this second book tops it. I was really invested in Lyra’s story, this book picking up from where we left the story with Lyra meeting Vale, her second mate. My heart bleeds for Lyra, Axel destroyed her self confidence and belief in the mate bond, it’s a joy to read how her relationship with Vale develops and heals her. Vale is a real sweetheart, just what she needs after Axels cruelty.
Love the world building as we discover more about the courts and how they ended up with the current system, the wars between the courts and the hard won peace. That there are now rebel factions seeking power for themselves yet again.trying to usurp the peaceful current system. I wasn’t sure which direction the story would go in after that he first book but the story is fast paced and full of intrigue.
I have so many unanswered questions still, definitely wondering now about Axels involvement. After hating him in the first book, I feel kind of sorry for him here. Love the fact he seems to be remorseful now and regretting his awful behaviour.
Good to find out more about Axel and his family, his father is shaping up to be a real villain and sure we’ll see more of him in the next books. This book was definitely filled with a lot more spice, some red hot action, a definite plus for me.
Again I find I’m desperate to find out where we go next, such a great story.
August 12, 2023
4.5⭐️ 1.5🌶️
This is going to be for book one & two since I read them back to back. ☺️
I’m trying so hard not to hate Axel. It’s obvious he’s catering to his father but there are still times where he just comes off as… genuinely bad. Almost like he’s trying to pretend to be under his fathers thumb? Does that make sense? Lol. I know she felt his rage and it’s obvious he needs ‘the queen’ to break away from his father but idk, there’s just something completely off about him.
SO bummed about Sidric and the Professor not being her mates! Totally thought the prof. was going to be but that there was some like block on their bond or something 😂 orrrr perhaps I’m just delulu. Ooh maybe he’s the insider that’s sending the royal family the info?!
Speaking of family. I could not love Lyra’s family more than I do right now. The bond she has with her parents and brothers is so heartwarming and REFRESHING after constantly reading about parents/siblings hating a main character. And her friends?! Gah! I love them too.
Lyra is the perfect mfc. She’s smart, kindhearted, is excited about meeting her mates and preparing for their role. She’s absolutely wonderful to read about.
I adore Vale. His genuine vow to choose her over everything? Especially after Axel? Gah, my little heart. 🥹 Incrediblyyyy interested in the newest mate as well. 👀
The world building is phenomenal. I love that we get in-depth explanations to this world and their rules. Sometimes it’s a lot but it’s definitely important!
I cannot wait for book three!
This is going to be for book one & two since I read them back to back. ☺️
I’m trying so hard not to hate Axel. It’s obvious he’s catering to his father but there are still times where he just comes off as… genuinely bad. Almost like he’s trying to pretend to be under his fathers thumb? Does that make sense? Lol. I know she felt his rage and it’s obvious he needs ‘the queen’ to break away from his father but idk, there’s just something completely off about him.
SO bummed about Sidric and the Professor not being her mates! Totally thought the prof. was going to be but that there was some like block on their bond or something 😂 orrrr perhaps I’m just delulu. Ooh maybe he’s the insider that’s sending the royal family the info?!
Speaking of family. I could not love Lyra’s family more than I do right now. The bond she has with her parents and brothers is so heartwarming and REFRESHING after constantly reading about parents/siblings hating a main character. And her friends?! Gah! I love them too.
Lyra is the perfect mfc. She’s smart, kindhearted, is excited about meeting her mates and preparing for their role. She’s absolutely wonderful to read about.
I adore Vale. His genuine vow to choose her over everything? Especially after Axel? Gah, my little heart. 🥹 Incrediblyyyy interested in the newest mate as well. 👀
The world building is phenomenal. I love that we get in-depth explanations to this world and their rules. Sometimes it’s a lot but it’s definitely important!
I cannot wait for book three!
June 21, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️.5
Tropes:
- why choose/ reverse harem
-academia
- fantasy romance
- fated mates
I am in love with this series and I can’t wait to devour the rest of the books when they release. One of the main things I love is that the books are relatively short and it makes for a quick read without getting bored or needing breaks in the story. This is the second book in the series and it picks up where we left off in book one, Lyra finding another one of her mates!!! The setting is still at Araphel although we do encounter another revelry in this book.
Characters:
Lyra: strong FMC. Under a spell so no one knows her true identity other than her inner circle + family. Future night queen. She is independent and doesn’t need a man to take care of herself!
Axel: My broken mate. I was excited to learn more of his back story in this book explaining some of his actions. I can’t wait to see where he develops in the future books 👀
Vale: looks like a cinnamon roll but could kill you vibes. Reminds me of a golden retriever until you upset him about his mate. I really loved learning about him in this book
Side characters: I think they add a bit of comic relief and friendship to the storyline that makes it feel authentic in setting.
Book 2 ends on another cliffhanger and I am so interested to see where this ending leads to and to find out more about a few new characters!
🌶️🌶️.5
Tropes:
- why choose/ reverse harem
-academia
- fantasy romance
- fated mates
I am in love with this series and I can’t wait to devour the rest of the books when they release. One of the main things I love is that the books are relatively short and it makes for a quick read without getting bored or needing breaks in the story. This is the second book in the series and it picks up where we left off in book one, Lyra finding another one of her mates!!! The setting is still at Araphel although we do encounter another revelry in this book.
Characters:
Lyra: strong FMC. Under a spell so no one knows her true identity other than her inner circle + family. Future night queen. She is independent and doesn’t need a man to take care of herself!
Axel: My broken mate. I was excited to learn more of his back story in this book explaining some of his actions. I can’t wait to see where he develops in the future books 👀
Vale: looks like a cinnamon roll but could kill you vibes. Reminds me of a golden retriever until you upset him about his mate. I really loved learning about him in this book
Side characters: I think they add a bit of comic relief and friendship to the storyline that makes it feel authentic in setting.
Book 2 ends on another cliffhanger and I am so interested to see where this ending leads to and to find out more about a few new characters!
June 20, 2023
This series is quickly killing me. This is the second book and I am already ready to beg for more. Vale has come into the mate bond for Lyra and God, he is so adorable. I am in love with how he treats Lyra and the things he says. After how Axel treated her last book, she deserves Vale. Speaking of Axel, won't lie that he made both my heart and head hurt this book and I am secretly hoping he can have a redemption arc at some point. The last bit of the book introduced us to a new mate and he seems to have all the potential to be making my heart melt next book, when we learn more about him. I was saddened and happy that Sid found someone, because I kind of held out hope he would someone become Lyra's mate. Oh, well as long as he is happy. I am super excited for the next book and will be stalking the author for when that will be happening.
January 12, 2024
2.5 stars
I just didn’t enjoy this one as much as the first one. Vale was the biggest ick ever and I just didn’t like his character, which was a bit of a problem considering he was in like 98% of the book. The best character is Sidric BY FAR and I fully fell in love with him in the first one but he was hardly in this one so I was a bit devastated. There’s also still so many unanswered questions and I’m just not sure I have the ability to read another two books before we get answers.. finally, I cannot move past the fact that the head of a penis was referred to as a ‘fat mushroom head’
I just didn’t enjoy this one as much as the first one. Vale was the biggest ick ever and I just didn’t like his character, which was a bit of a problem considering he was in like 98% of the book. The best character is Sidric BY FAR and I fully fell in love with him in the first one but he was hardly in this one so I was a bit devastated. There’s also still so many unanswered questions and I’m just not sure I have the ability to read another two books before we get answers.. finally, I cannot move past the fact that the head of a penis was referred to as a ‘fat mushroom head’
November 5, 2025
This book picks up right where the last one ended and it was a dive into a little more angst with the dude from Spring Court who is unfortunately named Axel. We have Vale who I love because he’s easy and just loves our girl, Lyra, with zero issues. She needed that healing. But Axel is lurking like herpes. (Will I ever come around to liking him? The question remains…) Anyway, this book had actual spice and plenty of it. The story would have gotten five stars except for some grammar issues and some cringe lines. The book moved well and I can’t wait to get the next book done. Quickest read. Easy plot that’s now moving into politics a bit. Good times.
April 8, 2024
This is SOOO DIFFERENT from most RHs even most rejected mate books. I love the concept was a bit iffy bout overpowered fmc like I don’t mind that it’s better than an fmc who doesn’t know that she’s overpowered but I wish it was done subtly, anyways u can excuse that coz I rlly enjoyed this book. I even love the politics portion that was rlly nice. But gah idk when the next book will come there’s no updates
April 28, 2024
A whole lotta nothing happened. Which is fine, if the writing, dialogue and characters were more interesting, but I fear that this was just basically a repeat of the first book. Of course we start to see more of an Axel redemption, but its still very small to the 'plot' right now so, it felt a bit copy-paste to me. We're also focusing so much on her brothers too, I'm just finding it very hard to keep up and be invested in so many characters. Let's see, I'm still interested to read the 3rd, whenever that comes out.
June 9, 2024
I enjoyed this one much more than the first and somehow the author made me warm up to Axel, who I absolutely despised in the first book. Lighthearted casual read. For being a fae book, everything is a bit too "normal" for my taste, but it's still a fun read.
My main complaint is that book three doesn't have a release date!!
My main complaint is that book three doesn't have a release date!!
June 14, 2023
4.5 AMAZING STARS! I loved the fist one but this one blew me away! I loved and devoured it. I am loving this storyline so much! I can’t get enough. There is a slight cliffhanger, but don’t worry it will make you smile! Cant wait for book 3!
February 27, 2025
Ok so this one was better. I enjoyed Vale and how sweet he was to Lyra, as she deserves. Waiting to see how Axel grovels. I do wish more would happen in each book. The story is pretty slow and we keep meeting her next mates on the very last page.
June 14, 2023
The second installment in this series is so swoon-worthy. I love Vale so much. I love how much Lyra’s friends rally around her. I seriously cannot wait for the next one !
June 23, 2024
i really loved this book, the story line is so interesting!!
October 23, 2024
I honestly don’t know what it is about this story. Is it really good? No, but am I very invested and enjoying it enough to completely overlook the shortcomings? Yup.
December 29, 2024
Still curious to see if anything fun will happen but kind of losing steam.
December 31, 2025
Lyra is one of my favorite FMC’s I’ve ever read. She’s so graceful and strong! I LOVE her brother’s banter, and overall, these are quick, fun, satisfying reads.
March 26, 2024
Rating: ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
•
Actually quite enjoyed these books
Didn’t realise the third book wasn’t realised so now have to wait but 🤦🏻♀️🤷🏻♀️
•
Actually quite enjoyed these books
Didn’t realise the third book wasn’t realised so now have to wait but 🤦🏻♀️🤷🏻♀️
April 24, 2024
Forgiveness
I do not like the FMC lack of will power and excessive empathy. Meaning she is cried a lot and “feels” for the hateful people who did her extremely wrong. I hate the guy who rejected her and I do not like, no matter the reason, them getting together later. So this is it for me.
I do not like the FMC lack of will power and excessive empathy. Meaning she is cried a lot and “feels” for the hateful people who did her extremely wrong. I hate the guy who rejected her and I do not like, no matter the reason, them getting together later. So this is it for me.
August 16, 2024
love love love it!
When is the next one??!! Such amazing story and still happily ripping our heart apart with angst, keep it going, please!
When is the next one??!! Such amazing story and still happily ripping our heart apart with angst, keep it going, please!
March 14, 2025
This book picked up where the first fast food book in the series left off, and it was just as tropey as I expected albeit a smidge longer than the first book.
POV: First person
POV Character(s): Lyra + 1 Chapter for Vale
Verb Tense: Past
Triggers: Some dangerous situations arise but no graphic violence/gore
Spice: A couple extra s*x scenes, intimate kissing
Content/Trope Notes: Fated mates, multiple pairings, LGBT+ friendly
Again, I read this book because I needed a fast food read pick-me-up. I'd already read the first book in the series and since it ended on a cliffhanger, I figured I'd read the next one to see what happens.
This book gave a little more information about the world Breylard has created and the fey politics involved, but it's all still a bit wooly. A lot of descriptions ended in a similar manner to one I read in the previous book that basically described a "shadow tunnel" having the elements on the walls as "badass." I mean, okay, but even I, without an inner mind's eye, need a little more than that. I don't even know what a shadow tunnel is. Alas, that's the level of description for most things in this series, and while it works for fast food, I can't recommend this series as something really good.
It still reads like self-insert fan fiction with a heaping helping of "Plot? What Plot?" and a side order of smut. And that's fine. It's not taking itself seriously, and neither am I. It's meant to be a relaxing read, and it has been.
Lyra is still the Mary Sue who can do no wrong and never really makes any mistakes. Vale is her new, hunky mate who apparently has zero issues with actual jealousy and is possessive as can be. He also likes to pick her up and hold her with her legs wrapped around his waist, and I keep thinking she must be tiny or he must be massive or a little of both with how often he carries her around like that. And we still have the original mate Axel from book 1 who screwed up big time and now seems to be trying to tell Lyra something about why he rejected her.
This book could definitely use some fleshing out. I think there was an actual plot implied in the story, but it's just not there enough, if that makes sense. The story suffers from being too short in my opinion. Honestly, the three books are probably short enough they could have all been tied into one book and saved me some money.
It's entertaining enough for me to finish out the third book. Nothing groundbreaking here, no real story that I can see due to its short length, no real development of the characters or personality from most of them besides very stereotypical characterizations (the possessive romantic lead, the happy-go-lucky bestie, the brooding ex, etc.), and no real surprises or twists to throw you off. It's a straightforward series with a formula and it's meant to be eaten like cotton candy. It's fluff you can enjoy and forget immediately afterward.
POV: First person
POV Character(s): Lyra + 1 Chapter for Vale
Verb Tense: Past
Triggers: Some dangerous situations arise but no graphic violence/gore
Spice: A couple extra s*x scenes, intimate kissing
Content/Trope Notes: Fated mates, multiple pairings, LGBT+ friendly
Again, I read this book because I needed a fast food read pick-me-up. I'd already read the first book in the series and since it ended on a cliffhanger, I figured I'd read the next one to see what happens.
This book gave a little more information about the world Breylard has created and the fey politics involved, but it's all still a bit wooly. A lot of descriptions ended in a similar manner to one I read in the previous book that basically described a "shadow tunnel" having the elements on the walls as "badass." I mean, okay, but even I, without an inner mind's eye, need a little more than that. I don't even know what a shadow tunnel is. Alas, that's the level of description for most things in this series, and while it works for fast food, I can't recommend this series as something really good.
It still reads like self-insert fan fiction with a heaping helping of "Plot? What Plot?" and a side order of smut. And that's fine. It's not taking itself seriously, and neither am I. It's meant to be a relaxing read, and it has been.
Lyra is still the Mary Sue who can do no wrong and never really makes any mistakes. Vale is her new, hunky mate who apparently has zero issues with actual jealousy and is possessive as can be. He also likes to pick her up and hold her with her legs wrapped around his waist, and I keep thinking she must be tiny or he must be massive or a little of both with how often he carries her around like that. And we still have the original mate Axel from book 1 who screwed up big time and now seems to be trying to tell Lyra something about why he rejected her.
This book could definitely use some fleshing out. I think there was an actual plot implied in the story, but it's just not there enough, if that makes sense. The story suffers from being too short in my opinion. Honestly, the three books are probably short enough they could have all been tied into one book and saved me some money.
It's entertaining enough for me to finish out the third book. Nothing groundbreaking here, no real story that I can see due to its short length, no real development of the characters or personality from most of them besides very stereotypical characterizations (the possessive romantic lead, the happy-go-lucky bestie, the brooding ex, etc.), and no real surprises or twists to throw you off. It's a straightforward series with a formula and it's meant to be eaten like cotton candy. It's fluff you can enjoy and forget immediately afterward.
January 3, 2025
I got the first book during the one of the Stuff Your Kindle Days and the cover looked interested and I struggled with the first book as it was the first time I read a bully romance and the first book was a major information dump so I was wondering how this book was going to go and it was a lot better than the first book.
This book is still based on Lyra, and she is the future Night Queen so she must hide her identity until her fated mates prove themselves worthy of the title Knight. Traditionally the Night Queen has at least one mate from each seasonal court. She has had one of her mates, Axel from the Spring Court reject her. But she has found a mate in the Summer Court. She has found the happiness she once thought was only a dream with Vale. He is everything she could have hoped for, and with his unwavering loyalty, she has finally found peace and restored her faith in fate. However, the shadow of the rejection still lingers, and his unrelenting presence sparks questions about his true intentions. As a dissenting coalition emerges in the kingdom, Axel’s involvement comes into question, forcing Lyra to confront her feeling sand decides whether he is truly the villain or the victim.
I loved Vale. I loved his chapter. I love him. He is so sweet and hot, and I want one. I loved that Lyra finally got one of her mates. I still love the relationships that Lyra has with her friends and with her family. The way that her family was so protective of her, and her brothers were willing to fight for her, but they couldn’t do anything. I loved the LGBT aspect of it. I loved that Vale was sucked straight into the family and was willing to die for Lyra. It was an easy read with only 207 pages and within 150 pages there was a lot of world-building and a lot of magic skills.
I still cannot tell the dads apart; they were all blended into one character that it hurt my head a bit when they were all in the same chapter. It was hinted as a why choose smut filled book, but yet there was minimal smut. I am assuming that the why choose bit will be happening soon with the cliffhanger and that she has 2 more mates.
I still don’t trust Axel. He is such a tool, like just go away and I would love to kick Axel in the balls. He was just an absolutely tool. He does not deserve forgiveness, and I hope he doesn’t get forgiveness either.
This book is still based on Lyra, and she is the future Night Queen so she must hide her identity until her fated mates prove themselves worthy of the title Knight. Traditionally the Night Queen has at least one mate from each seasonal court. She has had one of her mates, Axel from the Spring Court reject her. But she has found a mate in the Summer Court. She has found the happiness she once thought was only a dream with Vale. He is everything she could have hoped for, and with his unwavering loyalty, she has finally found peace and restored her faith in fate. However, the shadow of the rejection still lingers, and his unrelenting presence sparks questions about his true intentions. As a dissenting coalition emerges in the kingdom, Axel’s involvement comes into question, forcing Lyra to confront her feeling sand decides whether he is truly the villain or the victim.
I loved Vale. I loved his chapter. I love him. He is so sweet and hot, and I want one. I loved that Lyra finally got one of her mates. I still love the relationships that Lyra has with her friends and with her family. The way that her family was so protective of her, and her brothers were willing to fight for her, but they couldn’t do anything. I loved the LGBT aspect of it. I loved that Vale was sucked straight into the family and was willing to die for Lyra. It was an easy read with only 207 pages and within 150 pages there was a lot of world-building and a lot of magic skills.
I still cannot tell the dads apart; they were all blended into one character that it hurt my head a bit when they were all in the same chapter. It was hinted as a why choose smut filled book, but yet there was minimal smut. I am assuming that the why choose bit will be happening soon with the cliffhanger and that she has 2 more mates.
I still don’t trust Axel. He is such a tool, like just go away and I would love to kick Axel in the balls. He was just an absolutely tool. He does not deserve forgiveness, and I hope he doesn’t get forgiveness either.
June 20, 2023
Tropes/ Key Points:
✨ Fated Mates
✨ Rejected Mates
✨ Romantasy
✨ Why Choose/ Reverse Harem
✨ Academy Romance
✨ Forced Proximity
This book is so great! It is such a great sequel and I am already ready for book three!
The author picks up right where the first ended and she throws us off the deep end, in a good way. The first half of the book is focusing mainly on the romantic aspect of Lyra finding her mate in Vale. We get to see how they accept the bond and accept each other with ease. I was worried that it was going to come across feeling a bit rushed, but if you take into account the information provided to us in book one and two, you realize that the quick pacing actually makes sense. These two are “cosmically” made for each other, they are perfect for the other in almost every single way. Where Vale is hot headed, Lyra is cool and collected. They balance each other, which is kind of the theme of this entire series. So, yes, it does kick off in high gear with them settling in and become intimate and seemingly like an old married couple, but it makes sense within this world that the author created. It didn’t come across feeling rushed, it came across feeling natural.
I am firmly team Axel now. No one will take this away from me. This book gives us more insight into what Axel was dealing with at home and some educated guesses can help you understand exactly what was going on. He clearly loves Lyra and hates the way that his rejection hurt her, but I understand now why he did what he did. I am done with needing him to grovel, I just want them together now.
This book feels a bit more put together in terms of the writing than the first one did. The author’s tone and voice is all over the page and its consistent from the debut to this sequel, but it just feels a bit more refined. The slight repetitive use of words from the first is gone and there’s a confidence on the page that I felt towards the back half of the first book thats present throughout this one. I just watched the author grow and develop herself across two books and it makes me so excited to see it continue to happen as we keep going!
This book introduces a political coup and overall danger that was missing from the first. I like that it is making the world feel a bit more well rounded and not solely focused on the romantic relationship for our main characters. There is nothing wrong with books being 100% romance with a minor conflict, but now that we have a bit more going on, I can see that something was missing from the first book. I think it was such a great addition to add tension to the story as well as develop the world beyond our little “college” group.
Once again, this book ends on a cliffhanger with the third mate being revealed and I am READY for book three.
✨ Fated Mates
✨ Rejected Mates
✨ Romantasy
✨ Why Choose/ Reverse Harem
✨ Academy Romance
✨ Forced Proximity
This book is so great! It is such a great sequel and I am already ready for book three!
The author picks up right where the first ended and she throws us off the deep end, in a good way. The first half of the book is focusing mainly on the romantic aspect of Lyra finding her mate in Vale. We get to see how they accept the bond and accept each other with ease. I was worried that it was going to come across feeling a bit rushed, but if you take into account the information provided to us in book one and two, you realize that the quick pacing actually makes sense. These two are “cosmically” made for each other, they are perfect for the other in almost every single way. Where Vale is hot headed, Lyra is cool and collected. They balance each other, which is kind of the theme of this entire series. So, yes, it does kick off in high gear with them settling in and become intimate and seemingly like an old married couple, but it makes sense within this world that the author created. It didn’t come across feeling rushed, it came across feeling natural.
I am firmly team Axel now. No one will take this away from me. This book gives us more insight into what Axel was dealing with at home and some educated guesses can help you understand exactly what was going on. He clearly loves Lyra and hates the way that his rejection hurt her, but I understand now why he did what he did. I am done with needing him to grovel, I just want them together now.
This book feels a bit more put together in terms of the writing than the first one did. The author’s tone and voice is all over the page and its consistent from the debut to this sequel, but it just feels a bit more refined. The slight repetitive use of words from the first is gone and there’s a confidence on the page that I felt towards the back half of the first book thats present throughout this one. I just watched the author grow and develop herself across two books and it makes me so excited to see it continue to happen as we keep going!
This book introduces a political coup and overall danger that was missing from the first. I like that it is making the world feel a bit more well rounded and not solely focused on the romantic relationship for our main characters. There is nothing wrong with books being 100% romance with a minor conflict, but now that we have a bit more going on, I can see that something was missing from the first book. I think it was such a great addition to add tension to the story as well as develop the world beyond our little “college” group.
Once again, this book ends on a cliffhanger with the third mate being revealed and I am READY for book three.
October 16, 2023
Why did you read this book?
I've been craving reverse harem romance stories recently. The first one ended in a cliffhanger and I wanted to see what happened.
What format did you read this book in?
Read it as an eBook on Kindle.
Is this an educational book or a book for entertainment?
I read this book for pure entertainment purposes.
What genres do you think this book belongs to?
Fantasy, LGBT+, Humor and Comedy, Romance
What was your favorite part of the book?
My favorite part in this book was Vale treating the female lead like she was precious to him, unlike her previous mate.
Who would you suggest this book to?
Anyone who likes slow-paced romances, royal families, overpowered female leads, and enemies-to-lovers tropes.
What is your general opinion/ rating of this book?
Meh, I guess I hoped that the intimacy scenes would have been more passionate or not included at all. The sex scenes between the female lead and Vale seemed forced and “dry” to me. I did not like Axel, but it seems like there is more going on behind the scenes. It’s hinted that Axel’s father has something to do with a group of anti-monarchy terrorists. I am glad that Vale treated the FL right, but I have to admit I found the story overall a bit boring. Everything seemed easy for the OP FL. At least the first one had some legitimate conflict. This one fell a bit flat to me. Overall, if you like a slow pace, mostly drama-free RH then this will be the book for you.
How intense are the intimacy scenes?
There are a few detailed intimacy scenes. All Vanilla.
At what “burn” level is the romance?
I would say medium burn.
Love interests, how many of them are there and what gender?
There seem to be two love interests, both of them males.
Vale- the FL summer knight and a possessively sweet guy who treats her right.
Axel- the FL spring knight who rejected her, it seems that he is trying to redeem himself now.
Any trigger warnings?
Sexual Content: Sex Scene
Violence and Death: Described Blood, Violence,
Other: Profanity, Classism
I've been craving reverse harem romance stories recently. The first one ended in a cliffhanger and I wanted to see what happened.
What format did you read this book in?
Read it as an eBook on Kindle.
Is this an educational book or a book for entertainment?
I read this book for pure entertainment purposes.
What genres do you think this book belongs to?
Fantasy, LGBT+, Humor and Comedy, Romance
What was your favorite part of the book?
My favorite part in this book was Vale treating the female lead like she was precious to him, unlike her previous mate.
Who would you suggest this book to?
Anyone who likes slow-paced romances, royal families, overpowered female leads, and enemies-to-lovers tropes.
What is your general opinion/ rating of this book?
Meh, I guess I hoped that the intimacy scenes would have been more passionate or not included at all. The sex scenes between the female lead and Vale seemed forced and “dry” to me. I did not like Axel, but it seems like there is more going on behind the scenes. It’s hinted that Axel’s father has something to do with a group of anti-monarchy terrorists. I am glad that Vale treated the FL right, but I have to admit I found the story overall a bit boring. Everything seemed easy for the OP FL. At least the first one had some legitimate conflict. This one fell a bit flat to me. Overall, if you like a slow pace, mostly drama-free RH then this will be the book for you.
How intense are the intimacy scenes?
There are a few detailed intimacy scenes. All Vanilla.
At what “burn” level is the romance?
I would say medium burn.
Love interests, how many of them are there and what gender?
There seem to be two love interests, both of them males.
Vale- the FL summer knight and a possessively sweet guy who treats her right.
Axel- the FL spring knight who rejected her, it seems that he is trying to redeem himself now.
Any trigger warnings?
Sexual Content: Sex Scene
Violence and Death: Described Blood, Violence,
Other: Profanity, Classism
June 15, 2023
I couldn’t put it down!!
Book 2 picks right back up immediately after book 1 and thank goodness for that! I had questions that needing answering and Winter Knights Dream absolutely delivers! We FINALLY get to learn more about Lyras new mate! Vale is so darn sweet but he’s also the perfect balance of possesive, caring, fierce, chivalrous, and a freak in the sheets LOL! Lyra and Vale’s chemistry was instantaneous and I already can’t wait for more!
As new tensions and problems arise for Lyra and her family I love how no matter what Lyra remains the epitome of poise and grace. I have read so many books where the FMC has a position of vast power and yet is absolutely childish that it ruins the story for me. If you’re like me in that sense then Ariadne Breylard’s writing is like a breath of fresh air.
Overall I’d give book 2 - 3/5 🌶️ (as someone who reads mainly smut) so don’t let the cute covers deceive you! Lyra may be all things regal in public but in private… 😉 🔥 Book 2 is fast paced and exciting and despite that very cruel cliffhanger -grrrr- I am filled with anticipation for Book 3!!
P.s. I’m still rooting for you Axel!!
Series Tropes:
✨Fae Courts
✨Bully Romance
✨ Why-Choose Romance
✨Forced Proximity
✨Fated Mates
✨Rejected Mate Bond
✨Academy Romance
✨Secret Identity/Royalty
✨MA 18+
Both Book 1 & 2 are available on KU
Book 2 picks right back up immediately after book 1 and thank goodness for that! I had questions that needing answering and Winter Knights Dream absolutely delivers! We FINALLY get to learn more about Lyras new mate! Vale is so darn sweet but he’s also the perfect balance of possesive, caring, fierce, chivalrous, and a freak in the sheets LOL! Lyra and Vale’s chemistry was instantaneous and I already can’t wait for more!
As new tensions and problems arise for Lyra and her family I love how no matter what Lyra remains the epitome of poise and grace. I have read so many books where the FMC has a position of vast power and yet is absolutely childish that it ruins the story for me. If you’re like me in that sense then Ariadne Breylard’s writing is like a breath of fresh air.
Overall I’d give book 2 - 3/5 🌶️ (as someone who reads mainly smut) so don’t let the cute covers deceive you! Lyra may be all things regal in public but in private… 😉 🔥 Book 2 is fast paced and exciting and despite that very cruel cliffhanger -grrrr- I am filled with anticipation for Book 3!!
P.s. I’m still rooting for you Axel!!
Series Tropes:
✨Fae Courts
✨Bully Romance
✨ Why-Choose Romance
✨Forced Proximity
✨Fated Mates
✨Rejected Mate Bond
✨Academy Romance
✨Secret Identity/Royalty
✨MA 18+
Both Book 1 & 2 are available on KU
December 1, 2024
Book: Winter Knights Dream
Series: Knights Dream, Book 2
Author: @ariadnebreylard
Will You Read More from This Author: Yes
Completed Series: No
If you haven’t read my review for the first book, please check it out below so you are caught up. The storyline picked up in the second book. It evolved from a bully academy romance into more of a political unrest novel. WKD reminded me of a Hallmark movie with sex and magic. It was well-written, fun, and easy to read! So far, this series is perfect for someone who needs a lighter novel series after a bad hangover. The book has a cliffhanger, but don’t worry! Book 3 is also out on KU. Just look for Autumn Knights Dream!
Axel has started to prove himself. I still do not know what is going on with him, but I still like him. He became unsure of himself in this book and that kind of through me for his character development, but I am fairly sure there are some easter eggs when it comes to him. Puck is the snarky, fun older brother I always wanted. Overprotective to a fault, he showed off more of his personality in this book and I really enjoyed it!
There was more spice in this book than the last one. There were some unique scenes as well that were fun to read. Nothing is too crazy, but it is a why choose book meant for 18+.
Triggers: Maybe the fear of being buried alive?
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