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A Dark and Lovely Devastation
A love that spans lifetimes. A love she doesn’t remember.
In another life, she was the queen of the faeries. But now, after being reborn, Chels avoids them due to trauma at the hands of the fae....
Until the king of the faeries comes for her, claiming her as his mate.
Now, she's expected to be a queen in a world she knows nothing about, alongside a king she doesn't love. If that wasn’t enough, deadly magical forces trapped inside her have awakened, threatening destruction of the entire faerie world. Only the handsome, brooding faerie king has the answers she needs.
She won’t give into his desires, no matter how drawn she feels to him.
In the end, Chels must choose between saving herself or the faerie realm. With her own life on the line, and the violent forces growing inside her, Chels knows she can’t really trust anyone.
Not the faerie king.
Not even herself.
And definitely not her own heart.
A Dark and Lovely Devastation is a slow-burn, steamy romance. Perfect for fans of The Bridge Kingdoms and Bride of the Shadow King.
In another life, she was the queen of the faeries. But now, after being reborn, Chels avoids them due to trauma at the hands of the fae....
Until the king of the faeries comes for her, claiming her as his mate.
Now, she's expected to be a queen in a world she knows nothing about, alongside a king she doesn't love. If that wasn’t enough, deadly magical forces trapped inside her have awakened, threatening destruction of the entire faerie world. Only the handsome, brooding faerie king has the answers she needs.
She won’t give into his desires, no matter how drawn she feels to him.
In the end, Chels must choose between saving herself or the faerie realm. With her own life on the line, and the violent forces growing inside her, Chels knows she can’t really trust anyone.
Not the faerie king.
Not even herself.
And definitely not her own heart.
A Dark and Lovely Devastation is a slow-burn, steamy romance. Perfect for fans of The Bridge Kingdoms and Bride of the Shadow King.
12 pages, Audible Audio
Published October 26, 2023
96 people are currently reading
955 people want to read
About the author
J. Ann Curtis
10 books209 followersJ. Ann Curtis is an award-winning author who has been making stories up in her head for as long as she can remember. Her YA Fantasy debut novel, Lies of the Haven, won best YA Fiction in the state of Nevada through the Indie Authors Project.
When she is not writing, she is reading, spending time with her husband and two amazing daughters.
To learn more about J. Ann Curtis and her writing, You can also check out her website at www.jacurtisbooks.com
When she is not writing, she is reading, spending time with her husband and two amazing daughters.
To learn more about J. Ann Curtis and her writing, You can also check out her website at www.jacurtisbooks.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
February 22, 2025
3⭐️ a certain demon character *cough oren* ruined the vibe with his horny mind towards the fmc, but other than that, I liked the plot. This was an audiobook book club pick, and I was hesitant to start this, didn't really know what I'm getting myself into, and yet I had somewhat fun. I was kind of thrown off that it started in the modern world but then again, that's all on me for not reading these types of faeries books. I loved the narrator. Lilly Drake is one of the narrators I can listen to without any issues. she makes the story fun and engaging to follow along/listen.
December 1, 2023
4.5/5
I received a copy of this book by backing the authors kickstarter. I'm a sucker for pretty books and didn't have any idea what I was getting into with this story. One, I love the fact that this book is all one book, start to finish, complete. I get so tired of fantasy series dragging on forever. Now, there were times I thought the story would have benefited from it being longer, and the POVs better defined. It was so confusing going from Morrigan to Badb to Macha, all in the span of a few paragraphs. It made it harder to enjoy the story. Regardless of those issues, finishing this book, I genuinely enjoyed it. It has its issues, but all 3 sisters, Dagda and even Ornan, were well developed, and their involvement in different aspects of the plots made sense. I look forward to reading more from this author.
I received a copy of this book by backing the authors kickstarter. I'm a sucker for pretty books and didn't have any idea what I was getting into with this story. One, I love the fact that this book is all one book, start to finish, complete. I get so tired of fantasy series dragging on forever. Now, there were times I thought the story would have benefited from it being longer, and the POVs better defined. It was so confusing going from Morrigan to Badb to Macha, all in the span of a few paragraphs. It made it harder to enjoy the story. Regardless of those issues, finishing this book, I genuinely enjoyed it. It has its issues, but all 3 sisters, Dagda and even Ornan, were well developed, and their involvement in different aspects of the plots made sense. I look forward to reading more from this author.
September 30, 2023
I would like to thank the author for sending me an ARC copy of this book. I am in love with the cover photo of this book. It is so mesmerizing and beautiful.
А truly magical journеy оf dark and lоvely devastation. А fantasy unlike аny оther, with thrilling action, rich world building and amazing charactеrs. I really loved the writing skills of the author. It is so captivating and engaging. I was hooked to the book till I finished reading it. It was an unputdownable experience for me. I finished reading it in two sittings. The character developments were interesting to read and there are lovely twists and turns throughout the book which will not let you get bored.
I will definitely recommend this book to all the fantasy and especially dark Romantasy lovers. You will definitely enjoy reading it.
А truly magical journеy оf dark and lоvely devastation. А fantasy unlike аny оther, with thrilling action, rich world building and amazing charactеrs. I really loved the writing skills of the author. It is so captivating and engaging. I was hooked to the book till I finished reading it. It was an unputdownable experience for me. I finished reading it in two sittings. The character developments were interesting to read and there are lovely twists and turns throughout the book which will not let you get bored.
I will definitely recommend this book to all the fantasy and especially dark Romantasy lovers. You will definitely enjoy reading it.
January 11, 2024
I didn’t know what to expect going into this book, but I was HOOKED and gasping from chapter 1! It challenged the fantasy I’m sure a lot of us fantasy girlies have of being swooped up by a high fae to a magical world by asking “what would this really look like, uprooting our lives?” I highly recommend this fantasy journey of self discovery!
October 22, 2023
Techie magic or magical tech?
Either way – I’ll take a few of each!
There are times when we wonder what our alternate life would look like. Who are we, where do we live, how do we earn a living, why do we do the things we do, with whom do we share our time? Unfortunately, those alternate lives are just as unreal as fairy dust. Double-agents spies and portal-travelling fae are under a veil of lies and a thin veneer of deceits. As our Chels finds out, ‘one cannot stop being queen’. We are bound to reality and responsibility, regardless of how much we fight it.
Fave line:
‘…find the shadows, call my name.’
Some sage advice from the author:
Gals, always demand courtship – and make sure he brings enough Rocky Road ice cream.
‘May we all love as fiercely’ and be loved as deeply back.
Either way – I’ll take a few of each!
There are times when we wonder what our alternate life would look like. Who are we, where do we live, how do we earn a living, why do we do the things we do, with whom do we share our time? Unfortunately, those alternate lives are just as unreal as fairy dust. Double-agents spies and portal-travelling fae are under a veil of lies and a thin veneer of deceits. As our Chels finds out, ‘one cannot stop being queen’. We are bound to reality and responsibility, regardless of how much we fight it.
Fave line:
‘…find the shadows, call my name.’
Some sage advice from the author:
Gals, always demand courtship – and make sure he brings enough Rocky Road ice cream.
‘May we all love as fiercely’ and be loved as deeply back.
December 21, 2023
Dagda + Chelsea
I really enjoyed this book and the magical world it was set in. The book was a true romantasy, which I loved! It was a fast paced read that sucked me in from the beginning. The FMC and MMC’s relationship was definitely an emotional roller coaster. However, I loved getting to see it develop and the character growth. If you like politics, action, slow burn romance, unique world building , and family drama, this is the book for you!
I really enjoyed this book and the magical world it was set in. The book was a true romantasy, which I loved! It was a fast paced read that sucked me in from the beginning. The FMC and MMC’s relationship was definitely an emotional roller coaster. However, I loved getting to see it develop and the character growth. If you like politics, action, slow burn romance, unique world building , and family drama, this is the book for you!
September 30, 2023
"She had to return, had to save that one person who saw her, who loved her and believed in her despite everything."
With fated mates, he falls first, faeries, and a slowburn romance, I ATE this book up. I really loved Dagda and Roisin. Dagda truly loved his kingdom and Chels. Roisin, she was an amazing companion and friend to Chels, and I am very happy with how her story ended. I will say that Chels rubbed me the wrong way at times, but it wasn't detrimental to the story due to her character development throughout the story. I would have also liked to have learned more about the lands and Otherworld itself as most of the book is confined to the castle, but hopefully, if there are more books to come, we will get more glimpses into the world from there.
I thought that the story itself was quite different from other books I have read, especially the magic and the abilities of the faeries. Overall, this story was a really good read, and I thoroughly enjoyed my time in this world. I definitely recommend it.
I received this arc in exchange for an honest review.
With fated mates, he falls first, faeries, and a slowburn romance, I ATE this book up. I really loved Dagda and Roisin. Dagda truly loved his kingdom and Chels. Roisin, she was an amazing companion and friend to Chels, and I am very happy with how her story ended. I will say that Chels rubbed me the wrong way at times, but it wasn't detrimental to the story due to her character development throughout the story. I would have also liked to have learned more about the lands and Otherworld itself as most of the book is confined to the castle, but hopefully, if there are more books to come, we will get more glimpses into the world from there.
I thought that the story itself was quite different from other books I have read, especially the magic and the abilities of the faeries. Overall, this story was a really good read, and I thoroughly enjoyed my time in this world. I definitely recommend it.
I received this arc in exchange for an honest review.
January 11, 2024
2.5 stars I think.
Initially I was really optimistic, because the writing style is good and also the world the author created was really different to a lot of the other fae stuff out there, and was interesting.
But I found the plot was very samey after a while throughout, and the more I read the more I was tempted to not finish honestly. I didn't really find myself rooting for anyone, and I didn't really get the "chemistry" everyone else seems to find between Chels and Dagda.
Also, Chels really peed me off at the end, when she firstly decides to abandon the otherworld to perish to save herself. Secondly, she peed me off when she went back only for Dagda. Yes, it was good she changed her mind and went back, but she wasn't interested in saving the people she decided she liked to be queen of?
She's just selfish throughout and I didn't really feel she redeemed herself properly at the end.
Sadly it just didn't grip me, and I don't think I'd read it again.
Initially I was really optimistic, because the writing style is good and also the world the author created was really different to a lot of the other fae stuff out there, and was interesting.
But I found the plot was very samey after a while throughout, and the more I read the more I was tempted to not finish honestly. I didn't really find myself rooting for anyone, and I didn't really get the "chemistry" everyone else seems to find between Chels and Dagda.
Also, Chels really peed me off at the end, when she firstly decides to abandon the otherworld to perish to save herself. Secondly, she peed me off when she went back only for Dagda. Yes, it was good she changed her mind and went back, but she wasn't interested in saving the people she decided she liked to be queen of?
She's just selfish throughout and I didn't really feel she redeemed herself properly at the end.
Sadly it just didn't grip me, and I don't think I'd read it again.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 25, 2023
A Dark and Lovely Devastation
3.5
The story was different from what I was used it but it was interesting and kept me glued to the pages.
I enjoyed the different twists and various creatures throughout the story and I absolutely loved Dagda. His character was swoon-worthy and selfless. His counterpart, the FMC, on the other hand left a lot of be desired. To be honest I didn’t like her and found it difficult to feel for her or connect with her so that kind of hurt the story for me.
3.5
The story was different from what I was used it but it was interesting and kept me glued to the pages.
I enjoyed the different twists and various creatures throughout the story and I absolutely loved Dagda. His character was swoon-worthy and selfless. His counterpart, the FMC, on the other hand left a lot of be desired. To be honest I didn’t like her and found it difficult to feel for her or connect with her so that kind of hurt the story for me.
November 2, 2023
This book was brilliantly done. Incorporating aspects that I never would expected in a fantasy. It's full of weirdness and I mean that in the best way possible.
Chelsea and Dagda are two complicated characters. I didn't necessarily like Chels but I didn't hate her either. She's in the grey area. Chels put her safety above all others, she acted rashly and she never learned her lessons but Chels wasn't a bad person, she did look out for people some of the time. She has some growing to do.
Dagda was totally unexpected. I thought he was going to be this big bad fae king but the man was such a gods darn romantic he made my heart swoon. Yes he kept secrets and made bad (and I mean really stupid) decisions but I liked him a lot. The kind of devotion he showed Chelsea was breathtaking.
Curtis has created a complex world that has vivid descriptions and in great detail. There's a history that's explained in little tidbits throughout the book, from the families to the politics to the issues at hand. As for the magic aspects, I loved the variety of supernaturals, there are the common ones like ogres, sorcerers, banshees, and more then there were some I never even heard of. It was great to know about unique supes. Plus it had all the trappings of a good fantasy, a magical library, angsty romance, tournaments, court politics, and deadly encounters. It really was an exciting read.
Normally I'm neutral when an author drops readers right in the middle of something at the start of the series but I have to say I liked it this time. It's obvious that some serious stuff had already gone down and we had to play catch up but it added to the story, trying to figure everything out and Curtis didn't make it too complicated for us. Curtis put her own spin on a fae fantasy I love the unique details she added and how I came across things that I haven't read in a fantasy before. The story gave off the best witchy vibes and it somehow worked.
What was that ending? Half of me feels like the story is complete while the other half feels like another shoe is going to drop because some plot lines were not wrapped but it's a standalone. Either way, it was worth it. A Dark and Lovely Devastation was a marvelous read, I will most certainly be checking out Curtis's other work.
Chelsea and Dagda are two complicated characters. I didn't necessarily like Chels but I didn't hate her either. She's in the grey area. Chels put her safety above all others, she acted rashly and she never learned her lessons but Chels wasn't a bad person, she did look out for people some of the time. She has some growing to do.
Dagda was totally unexpected. I thought he was going to be this big bad fae king but the man was such a gods darn romantic he made my heart swoon. Yes he kept secrets and made bad (and I mean really stupid) decisions but I liked him a lot. The kind of devotion he showed Chelsea was breathtaking.
Curtis has created a complex world that has vivid descriptions and in great detail. There's a history that's explained in little tidbits throughout the book, from the families to the politics to the issues at hand. As for the magic aspects, I loved the variety of supernaturals, there are the common ones like ogres, sorcerers, banshees, and more then there were some I never even heard of. It was great to know about unique supes. Plus it had all the trappings of a good fantasy, a magical library, angsty romance, tournaments, court politics, and deadly encounters. It really was an exciting read.
Normally I'm neutral when an author drops readers right in the middle of something at the start of the series but I have to say I liked it this time. It's obvious that some serious stuff had already gone down and we had to play catch up but it added to the story, trying to figure everything out and Curtis didn't make it too complicated for us. Curtis put her own spin on a fae fantasy I love the unique details she added and how I came across things that I haven't read in a fantasy before. The story gave off the best witchy vibes and it somehow worked.
What was that ending? Half of me feels like the story is complete while the other half feels like another shoe is going to drop because some plot lines were not wrapped but it's a standalone. Either way, it was worth it. A Dark and Lovely Devastation was a marvelous read, I will most certainly be checking out Curtis's other work.
September 24, 2023
Coming Oct 17th, 2023!
♕ - Fae and Magic
♕ - Power Struggles
♕ - Fated Mates
♕ - Second Chances
♕ - Slow-burn w/ Spice
I would say this is a fantasy with romance. The main character spends more time coming into her role as Queen and learning to accept herself than falling for the MMC. However! The romance was all that it needed to be and more.
The author does a great job of creating her own unique twists to common lore. Differentiating "falling" versus dying was intriguing. I especially was smitten with the concept of a love that was so strong it transcended through lifetimes. A Dark and Lovely Devastation was an enjoyable read and I would recommend it to other YA readers who need a light read with a HEA.
I received this title as an eARC in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to J. Ann Curtis for the opportunity to read this treasure!
♕ - Fae and Magic
♕ - Power Struggles
♕ - Fated Mates
♕ - Second Chances
♕ - Slow-burn w/ Spice
I would say this is a fantasy with romance. The main character spends more time coming into her role as Queen and learning to accept herself than falling for the MMC. However! The romance was all that it needed to be and more.
The author does a great job of creating her own unique twists to common lore. Differentiating "falling" versus dying was intriguing. I especially was smitten with the concept of a love that was so strong it transcended through lifetimes. A Dark and Lovely Devastation was an enjoyable read and I would recommend it to other YA readers who need a light read with a HEA.
I received this title as an eARC in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to J. Ann Curtis for the opportunity to read this treasure!
October 17, 2023
This was hands-down one of the easiest five star ratings I have ever given. I loved the concept of the three sisters sharing a body and having to fight for control. I think this idea is so unique, and each sister felt like she had her own personality, even though they shared the same physical appearance. Every single character was well thought out and jumped from the pages. The King was hard not to fall in love with from the first scene with him, each sister POV was so fun to read, even Ornin was a fantastically strange villain. This book has everything—portals, magic, even Faerie Guardians in the form of tattoos… HOW COOL?!? This is one of those stories that sticks with you well after you’ve read it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 20, 2023
I was lucky enough to read this book before it was released. I absolutely loved it. My favorite part is probably their guardians.
The relationship between Chels and Dagda is on point. J. Ann Curtis hit the enemies to lovers just right for me. The steam was soooo good. Although I couldn't help but think "Chels come on! A hot king wants you! What are you waiting for!" 🤣
I loved the interactions with the sisters. The concept (don't want to give away spoilers!) was well done. Overall a great romantasy.
All opinions are my own.
The relationship between Chels and Dagda is on point. J. Ann Curtis hit the enemies to lovers just right for me. The steam was soooo good. Although I couldn't help but think "Chels come on! A hot king wants you! What are you waiting for!" 🤣
I loved the interactions with the sisters. The concept (don't want to give away spoilers!) was well done. Overall a great romantasy.
All opinions are my own.
September 27, 2023
“𝒜𝓃𝒹 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝓉𝒽𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝓉𝒽𝒶𝓉 ℐ 𝒹𝑒𝓈𝓅𝒾𝓈𝑒𝒹 𝓂𝑜𝓈𝓉 𝒶𝒷𝑜𝓊𝓉 𝒻𝒶𝑒𝓇𝒾𝑒𝓈? 𝒯𝒽𝒶𝓉 ℐ 𝓌𝒶𝓈 𝑜𝓃𝑒.”
A Dark and Lovely Devastation was a truly magical journey. A unique fantasy filled with action, world building and incredible characters.
At times I didn’t felt the romance between the main characters that strong but in the end it all worked out and I enjoyed this read.
𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐢𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐞𝐧𝐣𝐨𝐲:
💜 Fated Mates
⚔️ Royalty Romance
💜 He Falls First
⚔️ Spicy
💜 Forgotten Love
⚔️ Slow Burn
💜 Faerie Romance
⚔️ Stolen Bride
Thank you @rrbooktours and @jacurtisbooks for providing me an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: October 17, 2023
A Dark and Lovely Devastation was a truly magical journey. A unique fantasy filled with action, world building and incredible characters.
At times I didn’t felt the romance between the main characters that strong but in the end it all worked out and I enjoyed this read.
𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐢𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐞𝐧𝐣𝐨𝐲:
💜 Fated Mates
⚔️ Royalty Romance
💜 He Falls First
⚔️ Spicy
💜 Forgotten Love
⚔️ Slow Burn
💜 Faerie Romance
⚔️ Stolen Bride
Thank you @rrbooktours and @jacurtisbooks for providing me an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: October 17, 2023
December 16, 2023
A Dark and Lovely Devastation by J. Ann Curtis was a very enjoyable book and I definitely recommend. After having been reborn and the king of the faeries coming for her claiming her as his mate, she is expected to be a queen in a world she knows nothing about. If that wasn't enough deadly magical forces trapped inside her have awakened. In the end she must choose between saving herself or the faerie realm. What will she decide?
October 13, 2023
This was a beautiful Fae romantasy with elements of slow burn romance, enemies to lovers, fated mates, second chances and rejection, and a hint of spice.
This had a love transcending through eternity theme but with the FMC wanting to reject the bond and try to breakaway from her expected role.
The plot was engaging, had character growth, plot twists and was a delight to read.
With a dark vibe throughout, some morally grey characters, secrets revealed, threats from enemies close and far, and an intriguing and intense personal battle faced by the FMC this was an original and captivating read.
I received an advanced copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This had a love transcending through eternity theme but with the FMC wanting to reject the bond and try to breakaway from her expected role.
The plot was engaging, had character growth, plot twists and was a delight to read.
With a dark vibe throughout, some morally grey characters, secrets revealed, threats from enemies close and far, and an intriguing and intense personal battle faced by the FMC this was an original and captivating read.
I received an advanced copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 14, 2024
I rated this book a 4 because I think there could have been more adventurous events in and a little more spice. I loved how the mfc finally discovered her powers and used them on her sisters I only wishes she used them on the demon king too. It’s a good book and yes I would definitely recommend it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 26, 2023
This is a great fae romantasy story that I found endearing and compelling! I would definitely recommend if you enjoy bonded mates and multiple live-time love stories!
Beginning in present day in the Human realm we are quickly swept into the Otherworld and find out about Chels and her previous life as Morrigan, Queen of the Fairies. Chels was complex and her character growth was probably what shone for me the most in this story. Her and Dagda's story was a great love story that was marred with issues but had enduring love through multiple lives that was lovely to read about. The challenges that were brought up throughout were well written and developed and it kept me guessing throughout.
There were lots of great side characters, the fae folklore elements were well done and thread through the love story well. I really enjoyed the sisters storyline, it was definitely refreshing compared to other fae stories I've read even though its steeped in legend and lore from the history of the fae.
The ending really made this book for me, I found myself gripped and the twists and turns honestly kept me on the edge of my seat.
This doesn't get a 5 star for me personally because I didn't get swept up in it to the point of not being able to put it down, but its a very high 4.5.
I kept feeling like I was missing something, there is quite a comprehensive back story that honestly I would have liked to have read. I think I would really enjoy a prequel that did go back to the previous events, I'm not sure if they were available elsewhere previously but I couldn't find another book that looked like it referred to those events.
Beginning in present day in the Human realm we are quickly swept into the Otherworld and find out about Chels and her previous life as Morrigan, Queen of the Fairies. Chels was complex and her character growth was probably what shone for me the most in this story. Her and Dagda's story was a great love story that was marred with issues but had enduring love through multiple lives that was lovely to read about. The challenges that were brought up throughout were well written and developed and it kept me guessing throughout.
There were lots of great side characters, the fae folklore elements were well done and thread through the love story well. I really enjoyed the sisters storyline, it was definitely refreshing compared to other fae stories I've read even though its steeped in legend and lore from the history of the fae.
The ending really made this book for me, I found myself gripped and the twists and turns honestly kept me on the edge of my seat.
This doesn't get a 5 star for me personally because I didn't get swept up in it to the point of not being able to put it down, but its a very high 4.5.
I kept feeling like I was missing something, there is quite a comprehensive back story that honestly I would have liked to have read. I think I would really enjoy a prequel that did go back to the previous events, I'm not sure if they were available elsewhere previously but I couldn't find another book that looked like it referred to those events.
November 2, 2023
If there is a manual on how to open a book… this book is it.
“I wasn’t a hero. I always knew that. I wasn’t the person who sacrificed for others. I never intentionally placed myself in danger. But I never thought myself a villain, either. Until today.”
LIKE HELLO!
anyways, this book has
🧚♀️single pov
🧚♀️royalty
🧚♀️he falls first
🧚♀️fated mates
🧚♀️human world x fae world
🧚♀️ powerful FMC
🧚♀️ sweet hea
i would classify this book as upper YA as it had some darker elements but would be good for anyone looking for a sweet, strong world building fantasy. the only criticism I have would be that the ending was a bit rushed for me.
i did enjoy this book and thank you to the author who gave me an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
“I wasn’t a hero. I always knew that. I wasn’t the person who sacrificed for others. I never intentionally placed myself in danger. But I never thought myself a villain, either. Until today.”
LIKE HELLO!
anyways, this book has
🧚♀️single pov
🧚♀️royalty
🧚♀️he falls first
🧚♀️fated mates
🧚♀️human world x fae world
🧚♀️ powerful FMC
🧚♀️ sweet hea
i would classify this book as upper YA as it had some darker elements but would be good for anyone looking for a sweet, strong world building fantasy. the only criticism I have would be that the ending was a bit rushed for me.
i did enjoy this book and thank you to the author who gave me an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 24, 2023
I got this as an ARC, for free, but with no obligation to review. I then listened to it, in it's entirety, in less than 24 hours because it completely enthralled me.
1) The narrator: This was better than many of the audio books I've listened to on Audible. I'm very picky about narrators, and I thought this one did brilliantly.
2) The story: Very fast paced and beautifully written. I liked that I only got enough backstory to understand the plot as it was unfolding and I wasn't bogged down in unnecessary details. I don't like to put too many details in a review, but I can say that the author writes concisely without sacrificing artistry. Also, I am not certain if this will be the first in a series or if it's a standalone. She tied everything up in the end, with just enough loose strings to build another story on, but without leaving any cliffhangers, thankfully.
1) The narrator: This was better than many of the audio books I've listened to on Audible. I'm very picky about narrators, and I thought this one did brilliantly.
2) The story: Very fast paced and beautifully written. I liked that I only got enough backstory to understand the plot as it was unfolding and I wasn't bogged down in unnecessary details. I don't like to put too many details in a review, but I can say that the author writes concisely without sacrificing artistry. Also, I am not certain if this will be the first in a series or if it's a standalone. She tied everything up in the end, with just enough loose strings to build another story on, but without leaving any cliffhangers, thankfully.
November 3, 2023
Chels grew up in the human world. When she was 16 she learned she was the reborn Fairie Queen of the Otherworld. When she was later attacked and nearly unalived she swore she would never go to the Otherworld. She hated fairies.
One night her husband, the King, showed up and kidnapped her taking her to the Otherworld.
So much happens while she is there. There were so many times I wanted to reach into the book and shake Chels. She was extremely selfish and it drove me crazy. She does redeem herself but at a great cost.
ARC received for an honest review.
One night her husband, the King, showed up and kidnapped her taking her to the Otherworld.
So much happens while she is there. There were so many times I wanted to reach into the book and shake Chels. She was extremely selfish and it drove me crazy. She does redeem herself but at a great cost.
ARC received for an honest review.
September 6, 2023
This book invoked some mixed feelings while reading it. I started with a very hopeful mind, but then the FMC started annoying me. But then it got better, but then again the same. But aside from the FMC, I loved everything about this book. How it was portrayed, the newness, the unique plot, all the side characters and how the author executed themselves. Loved all of it. The romance is secondary here or I felt like this but it doesn't thwart the plot.
November 2, 2023
I love that we dive straight into the magic in this story! We are introduced so quickly to a lush faerie realm full of dangerous monsters, tricky demons, and royals. I really enjoyed the plot twists, the romantic tension, and the FMC's growth journey. I felt like her struggle was a great example of fighting inner demons and overcoming selfishness. I definitely reccomend you give this story a try!
Read if you like:
•High Fantasy
•Make me blush heat level
• Beastly guardians
• Powerful magic
• Reincarnation
• Love that trancends through time
• Second chances
Read if you like:
•High Fantasy
•Make me blush heat level
• Beastly guardians
• Powerful magic
• Reincarnation
• Love that trancends through time
• Second chances
September 22, 2024
I hate the main character we are meant to like & route for them but she was so selfish and spoiled & all the mess she gets into is so obvious and her own fault she on herself.
October 31, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A Dark and Lovely Devastation is a portal fantasy romance filled with deception, magic, mythical creatures, family feuds and a love story that spans lifetimes.
I had so much fun reading this story! I knew as soon as I read the first chapter that I was going to love this book! It had a great backstory, the characters are interesting and I loved the mythical creatures that served as each of the faeries guardians!
This was the type of read that you have.ma hard time putting down! It you are looking for a standalone fantasy romance then this should be on your list!
A Dark and Lovely Devastation is a portal fantasy romance filled with deception, magic, mythical creatures, family feuds and a love story that spans lifetimes.
I had so much fun reading this story! I knew as soon as I read the first chapter that I was going to love this book! It had a great backstory, the characters are interesting and I loved the mythical creatures that served as each of the faeries guardians!
This was the type of read that you have.ma hard time putting down! It you are looking for a standalone fantasy romance then this should be on your list!
November 13, 2023
Great world building, I devoured this story from the start, it was such a fun and easy read. I have to admit that while reading this story I was upset that it was a standalone because I was so invested and captivated, but the author wrote a nice ending to wrap up this story perfectly. A great high fantasy romance!
Tropes: fated mates, fae, magic, second chance, slow burn, he falls first, power struggle.
Tropes: fated mates, fae, magic, second chance, slow burn, he falls first, power struggle.
October 17, 2023
Summary:
Chels just found out a few years ago that she was a faerie—the queen of faeries, to be exact, but all she wants is her human life. When a handsome stranger shows up claiming to be her fae mate and asking for her help to save the faerie realm, she has to start making some tough choices.
Title: A Dark and Lovely Devastation
Author: J. Ann Curtis
@jacurtisbooks
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5
🌶️🌶️ 2/5
Tropes:
Fated Mates
Slow Burn
Second Chance Romance
HEA
Triggers:
Betrayal
Confinement (mostly mental)
Whitney’s Thoughts:
This book is a stand-alone adult romance based off of the author’s YA series. The first few chapters gets you introduced to the world and context of you haven’t read the YA series. It is a sweet and steamy slow burn that took me on some twists and turns I wasn’t expecting! I’m a sucker for a fated mate and this was a sweet story.
December 9, 2023
I loved this story line and could not put this book down. It had all of the elements I enjoy reading - fantasy, action, fated mates and slow burn romance with some spice, but was different than any other I have read. Each character was well written and thought out. There were many twists and turns I did not expect!
November 3, 2023
I really loved this! It was the perfect mix of romance and political intrigue. I liked how much actual story there was and that the whole thing wasn’t just a love story…but… the love was perfect and I fell into the story.
January 2, 2024
4.5/5 ⭐️
Audiobook : ARC review -
I almost wished there was 2 more voices to help differentiate when it was the sisters vs main character speaking at the beginning of listening but by mid book I could tell. First time not reading along while listening.
However this book was amazing! I loved that it didn’t end on a cliffhanger! 🙌 yes there are still some questions to be answered but overall it was a good close out to the book 🤍 I quiet enjoyed the character and world building! There’s plenty of action & adventure and amazing slow burn romance of a fated couple 🥰
Highly recommend giving this a read or listen 🖤
Audiobook : ARC review -
I almost wished there was 2 more voices to help differentiate when it was the sisters vs main character speaking at the beginning of listening but by mid book I could tell. First time not reading along while listening.
However this book was amazing! I loved that it didn’t end on a cliffhanger! 🙌 yes there are still some questions to be answered but overall it was a good close out to the book 🤍 I quiet enjoyed the character and world building! There’s plenty of action & adventure and amazing slow burn romance of a fated couple 🥰
Highly recommend giving this a read or listen 🖤
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