This Wicked Fate

Realm of Monsters

by Amanda Aggie

For fans of The Witcher, Brave, and cinnamon roll heroes that give Golden Retriever energy, this fantasy romance featuring a strong female heroine and a druid prisoner is steamy and full of adventure!

I’m the Princess of Solaria. Except that title means nothing, because I’ll be dead by the week’s end.

The moment I turned twenty-three, my father announced a gauntlet, a gruesome fight to the death where the most ruthless of the land could try to claim me as their bride.

Desperate, I entered myself to fight for my own hand. But my father is a twisted monster who loves to play games, and now instead of wearing a crown, I’m a prisoner, set to be executed for defying the king’s tradition.

I start to fear that things can’t get any worse, but I’m quickly proven wrong when I’m shoved into a cage with a man I’ve never met before. He's.... obnoxious sweet and friendly. And unlike everyone else, he doesn't shy away from the monster prowling beneath my skin.

We're polar opposite, and unfortunately, we must work together if we have any chance of escaping the wicked fate awaiting us.

Note from the

This Wicked Fate features a fan-favorite side character from the Dark Halos trilogy, but it is not required to read Dark Halos to enjoy this story. This book takes place during the same time as Dark Halos and therefore, might contain spoilers from The Crimson Queen since things happen to the fantasy world as a whole.

Genres: Fantasy, Fantasy Romance, Romantasy, Romance, Paranormal, New Adult, Dark

367 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 1, 2023

About the author

Best known for her #1 Amazon bestselling series, Dark Halos, Amanda Aggie has many titles.

She's a wife, a mother to two beautiful tiny humans, a Mexican food connoisseur, and lives in SW Missouri. She’s a non-recovering caffeine addict, and more importantly, she writes choking hazard, fantasy romance. Her books will have you laughing out loud, swooning, and biting your nails all in one sitting.

Visit her website at: www.AmandaAggie.com for more information.

Get access to bonus content for all of her series by visiting: www.AmandaAggie.com/bonus-content

Reviews

[Vanessa (bookfairy.reads) · Rating 4 out of 5]

#ThisWickedFate is set in a unique world that gives high fantasy vibes such as "The Witcher" and "Lord of the Rings", but also typical romantic fantasy vibes.
The world building is super intersting, as it offers a unique combination of elements from Christianity, but also Greek mythology and the characters are simply lovable.

There is a strong and serious female main character with an alter ego that is quite violent and a male lead who kind of lightens up the seriousness of the situation these two find them in with a great portion of humour. I love Finn especially, because he is far from the typical fantasy male love interest that is dark and broody and serious. Finn doesn't take himself too seriously, he is always joking about giving joyous and fun-loving golden retriever vibes, but he is also super reliable and simply loyal.
Seeing serious Eva and light-hearted Finn embark on their dangerous journey really has been tons of fun while reading this book.

And while we do have a lot of high fantasy elements, there is definitely also a romance aspect between the two that I definitely enjoyed as well! 😊

[CozyReaderDevan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 4/5
Spice: 3.5/5
This is the first book I’ve read from this author and let me tell you, I was not disappointed! This is the first stand-alone of 3 that are in the same universe as her Dark Halo Series. I have not read those books and did not have a hard time understanding what was going on in this book. However, I will definitely be picking that series up as well. This was a very easy read. It was well written and gave enough information about the world that I wasn’t left confused. There was some parts where the pacing was off, but the faster parts made up for it.
I loved the love story between Finn and Eva. Both characters who have been through hardships and have come out the other side. Of course coming out the other side doesn’t always mean in one piece. However they are able to work through the trauma and pain with the other’s help and love. Not to mention they are both incredibly adorable and perfect for the other. I really enjoyed their banter, even at the most unexpected of times. The descriptions of how they love each other had me swooning for days!
This story may be a stand-alone but it was seriously packed with a lot of action, thrills, trauma, and of course spice! I did enjoy myself reading this book and will 100% pick up the next in the stand-alone series. As well as picking up the original series too. So much more to explore and I can’t wait.

[Jessica Booth · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

What’s it about?
The world has been divided into two realms, and it the King is determined to seize them both. Cursed to only have daughters, he promises each of his monstrous daughters to the winner of a gauntlet. But they almost never survive their new husbands.

Desperate to escape her own doomed fate, Eva enters the gauntlet to win her own hand. But the rules are altered, and soon she is running for her life. When she’s captured and imprisoned with Finn, mage from the other kingdom, they must work together to escape.

Together they navigate treacherous caves, forests and beasts and begin to fall more and more for one another. Oh, and Eva has a big beastie form that comes out to eat people.

My thoughts:
This is such a fun fantasy adventure romance! I absolutely adored how fierce and strong Eva is, and her other beastly half is positively devilish.

Finn is such a fantastic hero (and reminded me a bit of Finn Rider). I love how devoted he is to Eva, and how much he respects that she is the stronger of the pair.

The spice is sizzling in this one too. Loved it.

As with most fantasy books, there are a lot of plot points and world building at play in this book, but I thought Aggie did a fantastic job of keeping everything straight.

Also doll hands. IYKYK 🤦🏻‍♀️🤦🏻‍♀️🤦🏻‍♀️🤦🏻‍♀️

[Lydia Schriel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adore Finn so much! How he loves her and her creature 🥹

I love a good cinnamon roll MMC! Eva saw herself as a monster which is what her father let her to believe. And it took a lot for Eva to come around and love her other half.

They went through so much! Even though the enchanted forest is filled with predatory creatures, I loved the scenes in it!

Eva feels so much for her family she literally did everything to save her little sister from the same fate and Finn is completely smitten with her 🥹

Loved the spicy scenes! Especially when Finn tried his best to fight for control but lost it 🥵

Recommend this to all Shifter and Romantasy lovers out there 🔥

[thevampireslibrary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hello, it's me, with another book boyfriend and obsession with a world that doesn't exist 😢 this was quite fast paced more so than most fantasy books I've read but it didn't hinder the world building or character development it didn't feel rushed at all, what stood out for me was the humour, this had tons of funny moments, most of them centered around Eva who is a shifter and the relationship between her and her monster had me laughing out loud, and I mean actually laughing out loud not doing the *weird short exhale through the nose snort* when something is mildly amusing, the banter between Finn and Eva was witty also, Finn isn't my usual type of fella, hes kinda nice, sweet and caring, no stalking/questionable behaviours or hint of morally grey, but did I still giggle and squeal like a schoolgirl, maybe, I really enjoyed this, if you like romantasy, dual POV and golden retriever energy MMC you may want to grabby hands this!

[Megan · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF at page 116. This was just stupid.. I don’t really know what else to say.

[Mandy Sickle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received This Wicked Fate in return for an honest review from the author as part of the book tour hosted by R&R Book Tours.

Eva wanted to believe her father when he told her she was special. That she wouldn't have a gauntlet like her sisters before her had all faced as the prize. On her 23rd birthday she's not surprised her father lied he's still hunting for an heir. However, she's not going to be willing and volunteers to fight for her self in the gauntlet. When things go horribly wrong she's forced to flee into the forest, and ends up captured.

I love Eva right from the start I found her just the right balance of sweet and savage. I just loved her right from the start and as she grew as a character I loved her even more. She stole my heart. I think Finn just complements her in all the right ways and how he was willing to risk everything for it just made me love him more. They have this sweet insta love thing going on but I feel like the fates threw them together when they needed each other the most. I loved that Eva and her beast have this running internal conversation arguing over everything but in the end it's because her beast wants to see her live.

I knew the moment I read it's compared to the Witcher and Brave which are two of my favorite show/movies. This is my first book by the author and I'm addicted to her captivating storytelling. The story just flowed it's action packed, steamy and kept me wanting more till the end. I devoured the book in just one afternoon. The author has done a beautiful job creating a complex world that captures the heart as well as the imagination.

I really enjoying meeting the cast of her series Dark Halos it was just the perfect tease that I needed to pick up the first one. I love the world that the author created it's a unique twist on mythology. I'm enchanted by realm of monsters where Eva is from, as I'm a little hooked on monster books. I truly enjoyed every moment of the book and didn't want it to end. I need more of Eva and Finn. This one is going to be a re-read book for sure. I can't wait for the next one to come out as well as explore the Dark Halos series.

[Michelle Van Vleet · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really like this whole series! Unique and flows well with action, passion, and unique fantasy world!

[Amanda Laurean · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️

You want to know which book finally pulled me out of my fourth wing slump? Well, you’re looking at it! This book was not what I expected after reading the description, but boy was I pleasantly surprised. It has shape shifters, monsters, mates, who did this to you, made king, kingdoms at war, and a strong MFC. What more could you ask for?! Not to mention, the MMC was a pleasant surprise. “Golden Retriever” energy was a perfect description of him, and I loved every minute of it. He was funny, sweet, but brave despite his fears, and would do anything for the MFC. This fantasy romance was a refreshing read, with a unique plot that I was never able to predict. She’s a new release that just came out may 31 and definitely worth the read.

[Morgan · Rating 1 out of 5]

Make It Make Sense ft. This Wicked Fate

1. I accidentally murdered and ate my childhood best friend but didn't cry, mourn, or seem remotely fazed.


2. My father has magic wrist cuffs placed on EVERY SINGLE PERSON IN THE KINGDOM so he can control them.


3. I'm Finn and I'm immortal and have been in countless battles, but can't stomach gore.


4. “Smithereens”


5. “Not the face,” I squealed." - Finn


6. Mustache forehead sticker or else I risk it falling off of my real mustache


7. Eva's dad is Ares and her mom's Aphrodite, and the king of Hell Hold is Hades who kidnapped her half sister Persephone, and I was supposed to understand this book was based on Greek mythology and how everyone was connected. But this info and the characters' names aren't made clear or apparent until page 102, which made me feel like I was missing something. Like, uhm, am I sure this is the first book? Did I miss something? Am I late for the party?


7.5 Dad used a surrogate to birth me so that I would feel disconnected from my mom for the plot but then is never mentioned again.


8. “Whatever that was, it wasn't small. It moved with lethal grace and I didn't have to physically see it to know it. It was calculated, waiting for the perfect moment to spring, and that's a move only apex predators make.”


9. “Tears stream down my cheeks as he presses his lips together, his eyebrows tipping in empathy.
“No, there isn't. You're too good for this realm, Finnick of Hell Hold.” I do my best to force a smile to pull at my lips. “You have people who love and miss you. Don't waste your chance to see them again on me. No one will mourn the Princess of Solaris. Everyone who would miss me is either dead or believes I'm some monstrosity. If anyone was going to get trapped down here… I'm glad it's me.”


10. “A hero doesn't change sides for a woman. They always do the right thing for the greater good. But if I'm not a hero, then what am I?”
“No one else has ever made me feel safe or wanted, except for you, but I can't enjoy it, not without putting your life at risk. The moment you upset me, and I don't have this make on, I can't promise she won't retaliate. It's terrifying. You deserve so much more, but I can feel it in everything you do. You're falling for me, and I can't let you end up like them, another victim to my monster.”


11. “This was our first real kiss. The first kiss in both our lives that matters. The first to end all.”


12. Finnick “I caught, killed, and prepared wild squirrels to eat but the sight of a dismembered deer leg makes me wanna vomit”


13. “My father only sticks him on the most important tasks since he can teleport. All he needs is to picture a face and he'll be teleported to them.”


14. The King is so obsessed with getting a male heir he's stopped trying to have sons and instead genetically mutate his daughters, hoping to have a grandson… but yet he'll kill his two already living grandsons if they disobey him…


15. You seriously want me to believe that Ares is interested in the stupid sticker mustache???


16. “You're a hero in this world, Finn. Do what heroes do and don't give up hope.”
“No, pretty girl. I'm no one's hero. There's nothing I can do to save you. I wish there was, but we're in over our heads this time. It doesn't matter how skilled I am with a blade if I can't use one against an enemy. And magic,” he holds up his hands, “clearly that's out of the question.” He chuckles through an exhale, gripping a hand around his jaw. “I don't even know if I was anyone's hero to begin with.”

WHAT HAVE YOU DONE THAT EVEN SUGGESTS YOU'RE A HERO!?

17. The LOVE INTEREST CRIES IN FEAR when he sees Eva's beast. This book can't be real.


18. “Uh oh,” she mumbles. “There's that look again.”
“What look?”
“The one of a hero… The incessant need to save everyone, even knowing it could put you in an early grave.”


19. “The king was fascinated about your mustache spell facade. So, he replicated it and made some small tweaks. It allows you to shape shift into anything, including a two-handed version of yourself.”

Or golly gee, I don't know, SOMETHING HELPFUL?

20. Contradiction #13,749
“Four charge through and talons burst through my fingertips. I spin with lethal grace, colliding claws with swords.”

A few paragraphs down…

“It's a good idea. My beast wants out and I'm not sure I trust her to navigate the small spaces like hallways. She's pretty clumsy, and I'd hate for her to get in your way.”


The pathetic fight between Eva and Peregrine shouldn't have happened. I thought he could suppress her beast? This book is a mess.

21. Eva, supposedly a force to be reckoned with, is almost killed by Peregrine…but Finn, whose been a powerless coward most of the book… kills Peregrine?🤨



One of the first things you learn when starting to write in school is, "Show. Don't tell". Show me how they're feeling, don't tell me. Show me what they're doing, don't tell me. ALL THIS BOOK WAS WAS TELLING. It's literally one of the most important rules in writing and it was just totally disregarded. I don't think I have ever read a book this bad before. The writing, the characters, their behavior, the rules of the world... Sense flew out the window.
Eva was impatient and rash, and had pretty much no personality. Finn... was awful. He was a totally pathetic damsel in distress. He had no fighting skills, no powers, and was a complete coward and played the victim constantly. He had no redeemable qualities that made him a good love interest. In spite of all that, he is self-proclaimed himself a hero, without showing any proof of it being true. This book had no logic. No rules. No plan. Just traveling, being cringey and cliche, and trying not to die pathetically.
I don't know how this book has such good reviews. I was basically crying for this book to end, but it was so bad I was determined to read all of it. To each their own, though. At least, they got some joy out of it.

[Nessa]

DROPPED.

First few chapters and I wasn't convinced. The flow was completely off, and the MMC 'Golden Retriever' type as many addressed him, just wasn't my type. And what kind of shifter was the heroine supposed to be? I actually found the husband she was married off to in the beginning a much more interesting character, until we realized he had an actual wife to save.

[Tralyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first book by this author. I was invited to join the Review Tour for This Wicked Fate by Amanda Aggie. It is hosted by the author and R&R Book Tours. Thank you to both for inviting me along and for the gifted e-arc. This was a fantastic read! I’ll be checking out Amanda’s backlist now. I need more!

I can’t go into too much detail here. So, this review will be vague to keep from spoiling any of the twists, secrets, or Aha! moments.

These characters are amazing. Eva is fierce and monstrous, sometimes unsure of herself, feels guilty for past actions, and suffers from anxiety. Coming from the childhood she had, it’s a wonder anxiety is all she suffers from. A product of the Mad King’s penchant for experimentation, Eva’s life was never going to be her own.

Finn is perfect. He’s a hero who doesn’t want to be a hero because he has some baggage that was packed by the Mad King as well. He is loyal to his position, almost to a fault. But, a chance meeting changes his life forever.

The banter between these two had me laughing out loud several times. Finn can be comical when he’s complaining. He makes a horrible scene into something laugh-out-loud funny.

Speaking of horrible scenes, this book is deliciously dark and pretty gruesome at times. This quest that Eva and Finn end up on is relentless. But, they both have a determination to see it through, no matter the outcome. I love their journey together.

The villains are extremely evil. I don’t know about you, but I love having a villain to hate. The monsters are scary and creepy. The fights are brutal. The world building is well done and brings the story to life. And, the steamy scenes were excellent–explicit but not in a vulgar way. The ending chapters were heartbreaking but had the perfect ending for this story.

I absolutely loved This Wicked Fate and I highly recommend it to fans of dark fantasy romance, high fantasy, steamy romance, touch him and die, who did this to you, and swoon-worthy love stories.

[explore_fictions · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book I read from Amanda Aggie and I have to say that I really enjoyed it! It’s fast paced, packed with a lot of action, adventure, trauma and also some spice, I mean what more does one want?!

The story takes place in a world divided into two kingdoms. The mad king is Eva’s father and, since he has been cursed to only have daughters, he created the gauntlet, where only the most ruthless monster survives and the prize for the winner is to wed the King’s daughter and the chance to be the future heir.

Eva, desperate to escape her fate, decides to enter the gauntlet herself to win her own hand. But after her plan fails, she has to run for her life. When she’s captured, she’s put in a cage with Finn, a druid from the other kingdom. They decide to help each other out and work together to escape.

To find safety and freedom they have to cross the dangerous lands of the kingdom, through paths filled with monsters.

My thoughts:

I fell in love with both Eva and Finn and their banter. Eva is strong, fierce and despite her monstrous side (which was super fun), very caring. Finn is so lovable, fun, respectful and as the author said “a hero with golden retriever energy”.

I love that it’s packed with adventure and action, but mostly loved the characters and their story. To me it was a real page turnover from the first chapter.

The book is set in the same universe as the Dark Halo Series and it’s the first stand-alone out of three. If you’re afraid you won’t understand this universe without reading the prior books, you don’t have to worry, the author gives enough information to fully comprehend this world.
After reading this book, I am definitely going to pick up the rest of the series!

[Nancy · Rating 4 out of 5]

“I am the thing you fear most, the thing you hide in the darkest depths of your soul. I’m your secrets laid bare. I’m your truth.”

Let me start off by telling you that my favorite part of this whole book was the witty comments that Eva and her beast exchange. This fast paced book gave you everything you wanted without going crazy. I absolutely loved that Finn, the hero, was not your stereotypical hero where he was all gloomy and never cracks a smile, but Finn-ie boy here was someone you would enjoy to follow along on his journey. Ready for the fight but also funny to see the after effects. Our dog’s name is Fynn (yes, spelled with a “y”) and I couldn’t help but think that this is 100% him in human form LOL.

I read a comment that said that this book reminded them of Deadpool and you can definitely see that with the development of Eva and Finn’s relationship (and her beast). He would constantly make light (but serious) jokes about not wanting to get eaten because he wouldn’t taste good. I wish we could’ve seen more of Eva’s sisters and their “abilities” but it wasn’t an all important aspect of the storyline and plot.

This book releases TOMORROW - MAY 31st. Make sure you check it out!

[Nicki Carignan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a wild fantasy romance with heat 🌶️

It starts off with a bang and a twist and does not stop for the entire book. The FMC is tough and unapologetically herself. It gave me Bridge Kingdom vibes. It was almost on the darker side of fantasy with intense themes.

This was almost reverse beauty and the beast with Eva being the feral one and Finn our golden retriever energy hero. Their chemistry was *chefs kiss* and I loooooved Eva’s beasty side and her ferocity.

It may feel rushed at times but only because it is a standalone and not a series. So a lot had to happen to wrap up story lines.

Tropes:
Reluctant allies to lovers
Magic
Beauty and the beast vibes but reverse
One cage trope??? Is this a thing?!
Dark fantasy

Definitely pick up this darker fantasy romance if you need a break from series. Although it is interconnected in her world it is completely standalone read if wanted.

[Kara Kunselman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book. The details, the plot, the spice, all of it. Eva Midicious is the daughter of the former ruler of the seven realms, and a shifter. Her fate, along with her sister's fates, have been decided long ago by their father. They're all used only to find a male heir for his throne so he can take back his prior position as ruler of the seven realms. Instead of going along with her father's plans, Eva takes her life into her own hands. She escapes the clutches of the castle but is thrown into many more terrifying twists and turns. With the help of an unlikely, and very handsome, ally she never expects things to turn out the way that they do. Even her monsterous side becomes accepting of the man, and that's not something that's ever happened before. Join Eva on her journey to personal freedom, and possibly love and acceptance as she fights for everything she's ever wanted and deserved. Will her plans turn out to be successful, or will she be back to square one in her dismal life? Another well written and thrilling story from Amanda, and I can't wait to continue this new journey she has started!

[thebookishstephanie]

This Wicked Fate is a standalone that ties into Aggie's Dark Halo series - a series I haven't read but still followed this book perfectly well!

I loved the story and the relationship between Finn and Eva. The story is very quick and doesn't happen over a long time (it is a standalone), so I wouldn't call it a slow burn - nor is it insta love. They're just helping each other out initially. Finn definitely reminds me of a swashbuckling Flynn Ryder.

This is a fantasy romance so expect it to be heavy on the romance, but there is still definitely an important side plot!

There are some slow parts, but the fast paced sections more than make up for it. The world building is perfect - there isn't too much, and there isn't any huge information dumps.

Thank you so much to the author and BBM tours for an advanced copy of this one! All opinions are my own.

[Virginia · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5
I was away in summer camp with my students all week when I started reading this book. Let me tell you I was whipping out my kindle every time I could to read a chapter, I was very very invested in the story. I was pleasantly surprised when the POV switched over to the MMC, as I'm not the biggest fan of dual POVs in 1st person. I enjoyed it as he's quite sarcastic and laughed out loud a few times. The FMC's relationship with her beast was interesting as well, she had an internal monologue that let you have a glimpse of the beast's thoughts. The only thing I wasn't a fan of is just personal preference: it was too insta-love for my taste but they were cute though ! I'm just a notorious enemies-to-lovers trope kind of reader.

[Permanently_Booked · Rating 5 out of 5]

I recently finished This Wicked Fate from the Realm of Monsters and could not be more thrilled to be back in the world created by Aggie.

Aggie has a way of making her characters feel like long lost friends you're coming home too; a part of her writing style that I love. Eva and her beast are a dynamic duo. I always like when the dark side of a shifter has it's own personality and can communicate with it's human half. It adds to some very hilarious moments. I could not get enough of the chemistry between Eva and Finn. Steamy, fun, action packed and gives off a reverse beauty and the beast vibe at times. Finn has magelike gifts and the fan art made picturing his skin art the perfect touch. He's a mix of funny, loving and protector. Though the baby hands had me rolling. I could not stop seeing Deadpool in my head.

For me, this was light on the amount of steam but it had such good narrative and a smooth flowing plot that I was enjoying the overall ride. There are showings of characters from other novels and I noted when reading the excerpt that there could be a possible spoiler for The Crimson Queen. So if spoilers worry you, I highly recommend checking out her books in order. You will not be dissapointed!

I give this book all the baby thumbs up. From the back history of Eva to the flowing action scenes, I was fully immersed. True rating 4.5/5.

[Sarah | Retro Girl Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I picked up “This Wicked Fate,” it was my first time reading something by Amanda Aggie… and it was a good read! This book is about Finn and Eva, two people who meet and fall in love despite the many obstacles in their path. Finn is a Druid, and I loved learning about his unique magic. Eva, on the other hand, is a feisty princess who refuses to be sold off to the highest bidder. Finn and Eva are definitely an unlikely duo, but I enjoyed their banter and interactions with each other. This book had a lot of humorous moments, but it could also be emotional at times. I liked both Finn and Eva, and I was pleased by the ending. I am definitely going to look into Aggie’s other work now!

[Arliz · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 ✨

This was quite a fun read. It gave me the vibes of Brave mixed with Snow White and Beauty and the Beast, but make it darker. This fantasy world building was pretty easy to keep track of. And even though the story is a bit dark, there were still some comic relief and banters sprinkled to alleviate tensions.

This Wicked Fate by Amanda Aggie

Dual POV
Allies to lovers
Cinnamon roll MMC
High stakes
Shifter/fae romance
HEA

Spice: 🌶️🌶️
⚠️Triggers include: death, abuse, violence, blood and gore

My gratitude to the author for providing the eARC 🧡

[Heidi · Rating 5 out of 5]

"You'd leave your people for me?"
"Sweetheart, I'd kill my people for you."

⚰️ Mini Review ⚰️

This book! This freaking book! I loved it. It gave me hardcore D&D vibes which I absolutely loved!!! I can't wait to read more of this story. It had a lot of funny moments that I tabbed to go back and laugh at. Also I absolutely love pet names *swoons* and Finn started from the moment him and Eva met. Eva's beast is hilarious and I love her lol

[Judy L H · Rating 4 out of 5]

Did not disappoint! This is a quickie for Finn and Eva’s story. Anyone who says it’s too quick needs to understand this book is set within a small window of The Crimson Queen, so there’s no time to draw it out. A lot happens and it happens quickly. I was really looking forward to Finn getting his HEA and this was perfect.

[Risshan Adele · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was amazing. I basically read 90% of it in one day because I couldn’t put it down. It was really cool to see how this tied into the dark halos series. Finn and Eva have completely stolen my heart in this book. Their story and character journey is so beautiful. They broke my heart and put it back together multiple times. A really great story line and I enjoy the touches on mythology and the setting of hell that Amanda provides. A great dark fantasy read with a little dash of spice.

[Amanda · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.75⭐️This one started off really strong then completely lost me.

Eva’s character entering the gauntlet to save herself from her terrible father was great, as well as her inner monologue. I wanted even more of her overcoming/struggling in the competition but it was just once fight scene then - boom - over.

And then, after the winner Peregrine’s revelation about why he wanted to win the gauntlet, it almost didn’t fit because it was written like there was pretty good enemies to lovers chemistry between them, so it was jarring to me he has this wife he’s trying to save.. Also couldn’t he have just asked her help for her blood and made up a story or tricked her that way? Or use that he’d let her go free after to bargain with her to help him? It would have had a bigger payoff to me if he then later betrayed her and then she ran away from him.

My biggest issue is how we are introduced randomly to Finn and other random characters we’ve never met are mentioned and it just felt too disjointed. The world explanation almost felt a bit backwards and hard to follow and too many components trying to compete for importance.

I don’t think Finn’s character is written well for being the main love interest- I’m just not buying the ‘golden retriever’ aspect.

And the weird hands thing? Yeah I could’ve done without…

On a positive note - once we get into the Finn/Eva connection the romance scenes are better written and I can see readers liking his character more, but again the initial intro of him I immediately didn’t feel connected to him.

I will caveat this review by saying if I didn’t read so many similar romantasy books, I probably wouldn’t be judging this as harshly, but it’s just hard not to compare to others I’ve read done much better. So with that I don’t think I’ll continue this series.

[Yugadi · Rating 2 out of 5]

I did not, could not finish this book. I was confused for like 30% of the book and even then I did not understand what was going on, so I just gave up and started skimming through.

The author hasnt heard of the term "World Building". I did not understand what this eorld was, what were the rules, who actually the king was, why the princesses were killed after they were married. Who exactly was the MMC ? What was his role in the world he lived in ?

I thought I would get my answers as the book progressed, but nope. All I got was two strangers on a journey somewhere falling in love between one chapter and the next.

Why was this book written? What was the point?
The only redeeming quality of this books was the 'Beast'. For once it was the girl who was a ruthless monster instead of it being the guy. The creature inside our FMC was the only interesting thing of the story. And she did not get any page time, much to my eternal chagrin.

I wish this book did not exist.

[Taylor Lust · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review 😊

This fast paced dark fantasy romance is perfect for people who love blood thirsty beasts, “burn the world down for her” energy, and the movie Brave!!

Tropes:
⚔️Touch her and die
🔥Burn down the world for her
🦁Funny inner monster
🥮Spicy cinnamon roll energy
🐍She has him wrapped around her finger
🏰Happily ever after

Eva’s inner beast is absolutely vicious and I love it, she also has a very dry sense of humor 😂 Eva is herself a force to be reckoned with and she takes fate into her own hands more than once!

This book has some Witcher vibes, various magical abilities and creatures, tons of world-building, and enough spice to keep your heart racing! Finn is one of my favorite characters in this book because he is so sarcastic, funny and lighthearted, he’s got that golden retriever energy that I LOVE but also can turn on the heat when necessary 😘

[Naj_ana_reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

So much fun reading this book. Fantasy world. Shifters. Fae. Magic. There were times in the story where it had me cracking up specially when Eva's beast was the one in control. This was a slow burn for me but the spice scenes were good 😏. Thank you Amanda for letting me be part of the ARC team.

[Brooke · Rating 4 out of 5]

On her twenty-third birthday Eva is due to face her fate, her father, the mad king, intends to hold a gauntlet for all eligible bachelors to win her hand. However, Eva, knows just how dangerous and deathly this gauntlet can be for her, after witnessing her her sister's deaths not long after their forced betrothals, and she's determined to take her fate into her own hands, by putting herself forward to win her own hand, and take place as the heir to the Solaris, unaware of the tricks and betrayals being played out behind her back.

Finn is hand to Prince Malakai, heir to the throne, as son of The Devil, the warring realm, intent on defeating the mad king Ares, and finally bring peace to the seven realms. Finn is a warrior, and revered leader of the powerful army, loyal almost to a fault. When King Ares's army breaches the boundary, and offers a deal to halt the war, in exchange for Prince Malakai, Finn, ever the loyal soldier, uses his Druid magic to glamour himself in his stead. But when the glamour magic begins to wear off, Finn finds himself trapped in a cage with Princess Eva, both on their way to be executed by the Mad King, they find themselves in an unlikely alliance, that may change their lives completely.

Eva is one hell of a protagonist with fierce magic and just an absolute force to be reckoned with. She's sassy, cunning, and clever, determined to escape the path set out for her by her cruel and power hungry father. She's a shifter who struggles to gain control of her beast when she's out, and she's constantly in the background spoiling for a fight, I adored her, she literally gives no shits and will straight up rip men apart just for looking at her funny, and that's without being touched. At some points in the middle of the story I felt she seemed to lose her edge and bite a little, becoming more of a damsel in distress rather than her bad-ass self at the start. However, as the story progresses, she gets her fight back, seeing her prove that she doesn't actually need to be protected, especially not by a man, and in fact even saves the broody, revered warrior's life on several occasions.

Finn is broody, roguishly handsome and an elite warrior for The Devil. After being orphaned by the Mad King, he found a family with Malakai, and has stayed by his side loyally since they were children, he would willingly lay down his life for him, and shows the extent to that by basically signing his own death warrant, giving his kingdom time to rally the troops and prepare for the next attack. He's cocky, flirty and charming, but has the softest cinnamon roll heart, and an ironic hatred and queasiness for gore, his one liners had me absolutely giddy, he's one of a kind and he'll definitely steal your heart.

Personally I would've liked a slower burn tension between Finn and Eva, but that's more a me problem. I love (and hate) when the slow-burn lasts the whole book, and has me absolutely gagging for stolen touches, or glances, and that wasn't really prominent in this story. Although the romance between Eva and Finn was really beautiful, both of them finding kindred spirits within each other, it was so tender and warming to see them feel fully seen and accepted for who they are, flaws and all.

Overall, this story is so atmospheric and immersive, the writing is beautiful and vivid. It's fast-paced and thrilling, I was compelled from the first chapter. Prepare yourself for the last few chapters because wooo, they are gritty and downright gory but in the most thrilling and entrancing way, with an intense, high-stakes and enthralling battle. This story is full of action, and betrayals galore, political intrigue, and a realm at war with two opposing kings fighting to take control of the seven realms. Absolutely overflowing with characters and creatures from various mythologies and fables, it's a truly enriching and complex world with found family, and such incredibly tender and warming relationships that will make your heart feel full.

3.75 ⭐

[Marys.bookgarden · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title: This Wicked Fate
Author: Amanda Aggie
Stars: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5

*stares into space till the next book comes out*
What...what do i do now until the next book is here? What am i gonna do without my two new favorite characters?
Amanda Aggie... You have done it again. You have taken my heart and my mind, captured it, and enrobed them in such a fantastical story that I must say, I'll never want to leave. Words cannot express my love for the world and for all the characters. When I first heard that this book was going to be Finns story and POV with Eva in the same world as The Demon Prince, I knew that I had to get my hands on this book as soon as I could. I will be the first person to tell you that you will never go wrong by reading one of Amanda Aggies books! Her storyline, world building, and character growth is immaculate.
We follow Eva, the princess of Solaria. She has a beast that lives inside her. This beast has killed many and had proved to not be trusted around others. Throughout the story we see that Eva doesn't trust her beast, herself, or trust anyone to touch or love her. She stomps her true, glorious self down with enchantments so her beast isn't given the opportunity to hurt anyone. Especially Finn.
Finn is a hero. A warrior. Finn reminds me of a slightly watered down deadpool tbh. I love Finn and his out of pocket humor. Also not to mention hes something to drool over. Hes a pass for sure. hot damn! *Fans self* He proves over and over just how patient and loving he is. He spends his time being aware of Eva. Never pushing her, never stepping over boundaries. Hes so kind. A true gentleman. Eventually he begins to show Eva that he's willing to risk everything for her. Hes willing to risk being eaten by her beast because he wants her to be herself. Finn is in constant show of loving Eva. It goes to show that the right person will do anything and go to whatever lengths to prove that you are worth every risk. The right person will be patient and show you what real love is and show you how to trust and love yourself again because you deserve it and because you are everything to them.
I relate to this story in some way. I felt so awful for Eva. I know what it's like to not trust yourself or love yourself completely. I also know what its like to have someone like Finn come into your life and totally turn things around. Its a magical feeling to feel truly loved, trusted, and made a priority. I know what its like to have someone worship the ground you walk on while also worshipping them. Love. I know the power of love and to see it be written to perfectly really warmed my heart.
I loved Eva and her beast. Yes the beast may be murderous...but like..its justified. *Nervous laughter* if a man were to try and make me submit while i was under enchantment...id unearth him as well. Just saying. Evas beast is sassy and bossy. I loved her! She was def a favorite character. I also really loved seeing the different POV happening from The Demon Prince. I already knew what was happening from TDP but to see the characters from that series was really fun! If you havent read The Demon Prince...i highly recommend it. They are amazing! Available on KU too!!
When Eva and her beast trust Finn, they are thrust into saving each other, providing for one another, and proving to themselves that love is a true super power. Love knows no bounds. The ending of this book had me in a puddle of tears. I love the found family trope and the ending with Finn and Kai and Asmo pulled on a heart string. Oh my heart. I cant wait for the next book! I am already so ready. Wow. 5 stars! Definitely recommend!