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The Fifth Nicnevin #4
Beneath a Shattered Sky
I called, he came, and now we’ll both pay the price.
Earning the allegiance of the seelie royals was meant to be the easy part of my pilgrimage. Instead, the Spring Queen broke my Guard with her petty games, and then the Summer King imprisoned them. He tried to murder me, and would have succeeded… if not for Bram.
Now wounded, and with nowhere else to turn, I have to put my trust in the one male who’s more dangerous to me than any other—Caed. I’ll do anything to rescue my Guard, even if it means risking their anger and giving him another chance.
Even if we manage to free them, the rifts between my mates are almost as deep as the ones tearing the fae realm apart. If I can’t stop the infighting, master my magic, and claim my place as Nicnevin, then the Fomorians have already won.
Book four of five in a fantasy reverse harem series.
Earning the allegiance of the seelie royals was meant to be the easy part of my pilgrimage. Instead, the Spring Queen broke my Guard with her petty games, and then the Summer King imprisoned them. He tried to murder me, and would have succeeded… if not for Bram.
Now wounded, and with nowhere else to turn, I have to put my trust in the one male who’s more dangerous to me than any other—Caed. I’ll do anything to rescue my Guard, even if it means risking their anger and giving him another chance.
Even if we manage to free them, the rifts between my mates are almost as deep as the ones tearing the fae realm apart. If I can’t stop the infighting, master my magic, and claim my place as Nicnevin, then the Fomorians have already won.
Book four of five in a fantasy reverse harem series.
526 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 13, 2024
330 people are currently reading
517 people want to read
About the author
Marie Mistry
23 books955 followersMarie Mistry is a reality challenged reverse harem romance author whose books are full of pirates, magic, and spicy adventures. When she's not writing, you can usually find her curled up with a game or a book and a large cup of tea. She lives in a wonky cottage in Kent with her other half and a super sweet shepherd named Meg.
She'd love for you to join her Facebook reader group: Mistry’s Inc where she hangs out daily: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mistr...
Or check out her website: https://www.mariemistry.com
She'd love for you to join her Facebook reader group: Mistry’s Inc where she hangs out daily: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mistr...
Or check out her website: https://www.mariemistry.com
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July 11, 2024Book 4 of 5 in the Fifth Nicnevin series. Please check the content warnings on my website www.mariemistry.com/triggers as they have been updated to reflect the new book.
dnf
July 18, 2024-=- DNF: 10% -=-
This book really reinforced the idea that I should wait for a series to finish before starting it, because the thrill of finishing this really went away 😭 (I am not going to follow my advice lmao).
After the last book, I only really wanted to read this one to see if the story finally picked up, but the fact that there's still another book after this one?- From what I read I could tell that I wouldn't like this. Aside from Lore (my fav), I just didn't connect to a single character 🤷♀️.
That's it from me 😭.
---- (Notes)----
I'm going to pass out I thought this series was finished 😭 but it turns out there's going to be 5 books bye 💀.
This book really reinforced the idea that I should wait for a series to finish before starting it, because the thrill of finishing this really went away 😭 (I am not going to follow my advice lmao).
After the last book, I only really wanted to read this one to see if the story finally picked up, but the fact that there's still another book after this one?- From what I read I could tell that I wouldn't like this. Aside from Lore (my fav), I just didn't connect to a single character 🤷♀️.
That's it from me 😭.
---- (Notes)----
I'm going to pass out I thought this series was finished 😭 but it turns out there's going to be 5 books bye 💀.
July 15, 2024
3.75
featuring a faerie queen who is alternately incredibly powerful and basically useless depending on what the plot requires and her five mates:
1. the “bad boy” who’s actually just a douche to her
2. the irrelevant one
3. has three personality traits: killing, fucking, and killing and fucking
4. the emo one, both because he’s edgy and because he’s Sensitive
5. the villain 👿 actually he’s a good guy 😇 actually he’s a villain 👿 actually he’s a good guy 😇 actually he
featuring a faerie queen who is alternately incredibly powerful and basically useless depending on what the plot requires and her five mates:
1. the “bad boy” who’s actually just a douche to her
2. the irrelevant one
3. has three personality traits: killing, fucking, and killing and fucking
4. the emo one, both because he’s edgy and because he’s Sensitive
5. the villain 👿 actually he’s a good guy 😇 actually he’s a villain 👿 actually he’s a good guy 😇 actually he
July 16, 2024
WHAT? NO! WHY?
Everything that bothered me about this book comes down to Caed. I'm sure that the author is dragging out his curse in order to build suspense, and that he'll finally prove himself with mere seconds remaining on the clock. But she's doing it at the expense of a balanced harem. Rose is banging the other four like it's an Olympic sport, and this guy can't get a single kiss in four books.
But it's more than just physical affection. I doubt this harem can ever become truly balanced with one member knowing he's unloved, unwanted, unworthy of sympathy, and the others are just counting down until he dies.
I thought, with the set up of this book, Caed would save the other guards and finally be accepted. I should've known better. Everything Rose has ever done for Caed has been perfunctory. Because he's her guard and she should heal him after weeks of torture in the Spring court. Because she should attempt a rescue when he's captured by the enemy. There's no heart in her actions, because all her empathy is reserved entirely for Bree. Otherwise, she pretends Caed doesn't exist and ignores the way her other guards bully him. She'll put up a token protest if his misery is right there in her face, but backs down the moment the others steamroll her. Honestly, I don't blame Caed for giving up hope. He deserves a better mate.
Drystan used to be one of my favorites, but now he just comes across as a bully. He doesn't care that Caed may die, and Rose's feelings on the matter are irrelevant to him. He would rather see her grieve (assuming she even cares) than to swallow his pride and work together. The worst part is that he can offer some grace to his uncle, knowing that he's being controlled by the king, but can't see the similarities to Caed's situation.
Jaro, on the other hand, bored me in previous books, but seems to be the only one willing to put in the effort for Rose's sake. And I like him a little more now.
Lore is a lunatic, but an entertaining one. And Bree...I loved him in previous books, but he's starting to become an emotional vampire. I'm not downplaying his trauma by any means. He's been through hell and back. But in a five-book series, he should've been well on his path of healing and growing stronger. I don't blame the character, I blame the author, for throwing him back into the situation that traumatized him to begin with. So. Uncalled. For. He should've been locked up with the others.
And speaking of being retraumatized...Caed's "betrayal" at the end was inevitable. I figured there was a reason why he didn't get any more POV chapters after being tortured by his father (other than the author playing favorites, I mean). Yet, it still pisses the hell off. After watching him be the underdog for the past two books, trying his hardest to redeem himself, all that progress will be erased, and it's right back to square one. What a complete waste of time.
Everything that bothered me about this book comes down to Caed. I'm sure that the author is dragging out his curse in order to build suspense, and that he'll finally prove himself with mere seconds remaining on the clock. But she's doing it at the expense of a balanced harem. Rose is banging the other four like it's an Olympic sport, and this guy can't get a single kiss in four books.
But it's more than just physical affection. I doubt this harem can ever become truly balanced with one member knowing he's unloved, unwanted, unworthy of sympathy, and the others are just counting down until he dies.
I thought, with the set up of this book, Caed would save the other guards and finally be accepted. I should've known better. Everything Rose has ever done for Caed has been perfunctory. Because he's her guard and she should heal him after weeks of torture in the Spring court. Because she should attempt a rescue when he's captured by the enemy. There's no heart in her actions, because all her empathy is reserved entirely for Bree. Otherwise, she pretends Caed doesn't exist and ignores the way her other guards bully him. She'll put up a token protest if his misery is right there in her face, but backs down the moment the others steamroll her. Honestly, I don't blame Caed for giving up hope. He deserves a better mate.
Drystan used to be one of my favorites, but now he just comes across as a bully. He doesn't care that Caed may die, and Rose's feelings on the matter are irrelevant to him. He would rather see her grieve (assuming she even cares) than to swallow his pride and work together. The worst part is that he can offer some grace to his uncle, knowing that he's being controlled by the king, but can't see the similarities to Caed's situation.
Jaro, on the other hand, bored me in previous books, but seems to be the only one willing to put in the effort for Rose's sake. And I like him a little more now.
Lore is a lunatic, but an entertaining one. And Bree...I loved him in previous books, but he's starting to become an emotional vampire. I'm not downplaying his trauma by any means. He's been through hell and back. But in a five-book series, he should've been well on his path of healing and growing stronger. I don't blame the character, I blame the author, for throwing him back into the situation that traumatized him to begin with. So. Uncalled. For. He should've been locked up with the others.
And speaking of being retraumatized...Caed's "betrayal" at the end was inevitable. I figured there was a reason why he didn't get any more POV chapters after being tortured by his father (other than the author playing favorites, I mean). Yet, it still pisses the hell off. After watching him be the underdog for the past two books, trying his hardest to redeem himself, all that progress will be erased, and it's right back to square one. What a complete waste of time.
Read
July 13, 2024I can't wait for Caed to redeem himself of being worthy as her guard and mate.
Edit: BOOK 4 IS OUT. I REPEAT. Beneath a Shattered Sky IS OUT.
Edit: BOOK 4 IS OUT. I REPEAT. Beneath a Shattered Sky IS OUT.
September 8, 2025
I was irrevocably bored with this even though it was Lore (my fave mmc) book, it's dragging I just wanted it to be over
Rose is getting stronger which is amazing to read but some of their problems can be solved by them doing the mating bond, it's book 4 and STILL NOTHING! Because of Caeds terrible actions it's delayed this is my problem with betrayal/asshole mmcs they take it too far, and it makes sense their forgiveness takes a lot of time as well, we have all 3 books wasted on this. Romance wise, it doesn't even going to be enough to balance the scale.
Even though I love Brie down, and I love the consent, healing and trauma stuff, it's becoming repetitive. It makes sense for it to take this long, but it's just uncalled-for him to go through this disgusting trauma AGAIN, the author should have just made him locked up like the rest.
Caeds betrayal came from 10 mile away, and it was SO obvious why is nobody questioning anyone why is everyone acting dumb??
Speaking of dumb WHY WHY Cressida had to be ex lover of Lore it added nothing to the story except make Rose jealous/inadequate for not having spicier s*x. Granted Lore hates Cressida it's been at least decades they stopped due to her finding her mates, and we even learn in book 5 she used to torture her so again its so UNNECESSARY I'm not excepting thousands of years olds fae to be a virgin but I don't appreciate double standards with virgin female and their ex lovers paraded around. Also, to add it's not a constant through the book happens like 3-4 times but I wanted Lore to reassure her, even though I know they are mates no one literally compares to her
quotes
“You came,” Rose whispers.
Her violet eyes study me with the pain-filled wariness of a wounded kitten as my heart pounds in my chest, reacting to the fear and hurt that the Call is still projecting my way. Every cell in my body is screaming at me to protect her.
She’s a mess. Huddled in the hollow made by the roots of a salt-bitten tree, her skin is shredded, burned, and are those black veins on her arms? Shit, they are. She has iron poisoning on top of everything else. She didn’t ask me a question, but she’s still waiting for me to say something. Before Rose, I would’ve blurted a sarcastic retort without hesitation, protecting my pride like a good son of Balor.
But because it is Rose, every single answer that might’ve spared my pride seems like an insult.
I’ve done enough damage to this female.
“You called.”
It’s the painful, broken truth. I’ll always come when she needs me, even when she’d rather I didn’t. I’m shackled to her by more than oaths and curses. I wish she’d say something. Why is she here, alone on the outskirts of a forest, with none of her Guard? Is this a peace offering— a reason for me to feel hopeful— or am I her last resort?
“I understand.” Caed dips his head, surprisingly solemn. “For what it’s worth, I’m sorry. Truly. I regret everything that happened in Fellgotha. I thought about what you said in Pavellen, and I understand why you won’t trust me, but I swear on my mother’s soul, I’ll prove myself.”
i really loved this pov of caeds
“Your war is boring.” He blows a raspberry at her. “Plus, I don’t know if you noticed, but I found a shiny new pet.”
“Lorcan,” she growls in exasperation, and I’m struck by the familiarity of the exchange. “We both know neither of those things is the reason you’ve been ignoring my summons for decades.”
There’s a quiet, intimate accusation there that makes my heart sink. Lore’s hat tightens on my head as if reassuring me, but all it really tells me is that I’m not imagining the way Cressida is looking at him. There’s more there than an assassin who used to work for her, more than a queen ordering one of her lords. There’s history between them that I don’t know about, and I’m not sure I want the details. Yet her expression fades as Lore steps up behind me and wraps his arms around my waist. “Whose dust is on my skin, pet?” he murmurs in my ear. “Who’s wearing my cap right now?” It’s true, a satisfied
Worse still, Cressida and Lore were lovers for decades, though that all stopped when Cressida found her first mate. Although fae understand that relationships outside of mating happen, and are never guaranteed to be permanent, emotions are messy things.
pack it up bro
“The problem”— Lore grins, following him inside—“ is that Rose might want to fuck us, and she won’t do it with your virgin ass sitting there.”
Caed did gain some amazing points this book
“Anyway, I’m fed up with people management. Cressidick wants my toy soldiers? She can order them herself.” He blows a raspberry at the ceiling, and my fists tighten as I realise that’s the direction of the autumn queen’s room. A room he probably knows too much about. Cutting off that jealous thought before it can develop, I force myself to focus on Jaro and Caed and summon a little of Danu’s power.
Like girl, speak up tell him this!!!
“We’ve got plenty of that here.” The other redcap looks beyond him. “But does your mate appreciate it as much as Cress did? I still remember the time she ordered you to take her to her knees in the middle of the Torvyn Estuary Massacre and fuck her in the blood of her—”
Lore’s hand shoots out, snatching the other redcap’s tongue with his claws as rage flares bright and hot in my gut. Every single muscle in my body is taut as Lore cocks his head and smiles.
“Would you rather lose your tongue or your life?” Lore doesn’t seem to care about the two spears levelled at him. “Because my Nicnevin’s as gloriously murderous as I am, and I’m sure she’ll appreciate either.”
Lore and Cressida were both so careful not to trigger any of my possessive instincts while I was in Illidwen. He wore my dust everywhere, and Cressida made certain to never be within touching distance. With her three mates always nearby, and their obvious devotion to one another, I sometimes managed to forget they’d been lovers for centuries.
But I’ve never heard of redcap elders, let alone whatever they’re arguing about.
“Besides,” Lore continues, blinking behind the redcap whose name I still don’t know with a smug smile. “During my mate’s fever, I got to feast on her sweet cunt in the middle of a battle. Far better than just fucking her in the aftermath.”
“You’ve got to start showing my mate more respect, Finchy,” Lore says, and the redcap beneath him trembles with silent laughter.
This scene actually made me so uncomfortable and stopped reading for a while.
“A true redcap mate…” I lean down, closing the distance to whisper darkly in her ear. “Kneels in the middle of the slain after a battle, taking her under fae’s cock in front of the whole troop while he ruts her like a beast.” I lean back, grinning again. “If you ask me, letting me play with your pretty little pussy right in the middle of that slaughter in the Spring Court was even better.”
It’s not the same, and my smart little pet knows it, if the scowl on her face is anything to go by.
“And Cressida did this… with you?”
Abort. Abort. Abort.
Cressidick has done many things to me, a good half of them were agonisingly painful. None of them are things Rose needs to hear about. I shoot a pleading look at Jaro. Surely wolfie will save me? “Rosie,” Jaro mutters, reluctantly. “A lot of battles where redcaps are involved tend to devolve into orgies… I doubt it meant anything to Lore, and Cressida was probably just curious.”
My mate doesn’t back down, and neither does the Goddess’s fury simmering in her eyes. “Does it matter to you?” she presses.
“You’re the only thing that matters to me, pet.”
I don’t think she understands how deep that truth is. Several millennia of boring living tends to strip away the significance of almost anything besides the basic needs— fucking and killing. Now, I want to fuck her and kill her enemies.
i love Lore down which is why It's still SO UNNECESSARY
Rose is getting stronger which is amazing to read but some of their problems can be solved by them doing the mating bond, it's book 4 and STILL NOTHING! Because of Caeds terrible actions it's delayed this is my problem with betrayal/asshole mmcs they take it too far, and it makes sense their forgiveness takes a lot of time as well, we have all 3 books wasted on this. Romance wise, it doesn't even going to be enough to balance the scale.
Even though I love Brie down, and I love the consent, healing and trauma stuff, it's becoming repetitive. It makes sense for it to take this long, but it's just uncalled-for him to go through this disgusting trauma AGAIN, the author should have just made him locked up like the rest.
Caeds betrayal came from 10 mile away, and it was SO obvious why is nobody questioning anyone why is everyone acting dumb??
Speaking of dumb WHY WHY Cressida had to be ex lover of Lore it added nothing to the story except make Rose jealous/inadequate for not having spicier s*x. Granted Lore hates Cressida it's been at least decades they stopped due to her finding her mates, and we even learn in book 5 she used to torture her so again its so UNNECESSARY I'm not excepting thousands of years olds fae to be a virgin but I don't appreciate double standards with virgin female and their ex lovers paraded around. Also, to add it's not a constant through the book happens like 3-4 times but I wanted Lore to reassure her, even though I know they are mates no one literally compares to her
quotes
“You came,” Rose whispers.
Her violet eyes study me with the pain-filled wariness of a wounded kitten as my heart pounds in my chest, reacting to the fear and hurt that the Call is still projecting my way. Every cell in my body is screaming at me to protect her.
She’s a mess. Huddled in the hollow made by the roots of a salt-bitten tree, her skin is shredded, burned, and are those black veins on her arms? Shit, they are. She has iron poisoning on top of everything else. She didn’t ask me a question, but she’s still waiting for me to say something. Before Rose, I would’ve blurted a sarcastic retort without hesitation, protecting my pride like a good son of Balor.
But because it is Rose, every single answer that might’ve spared my pride seems like an insult.
I’ve done enough damage to this female.
“You called.”
It’s the painful, broken truth. I’ll always come when she needs me, even when she’d rather I didn’t. I’m shackled to her by more than oaths and curses. I wish she’d say something. Why is she here, alone on the outskirts of a forest, with none of her Guard? Is this a peace offering— a reason for me to feel hopeful— or am I her last resort?
“I understand.” Caed dips his head, surprisingly solemn. “For what it’s worth, I’m sorry. Truly. I regret everything that happened in Fellgotha. I thought about what you said in Pavellen, and I understand why you won’t trust me, but I swear on my mother’s soul, I’ll prove myself.”
i really loved this pov of caeds
“Your war is boring.” He blows a raspberry at her. “Plus, I don’t know if you noticed, but I found a shiny new pet.”
“Lorcan,” she growls in exasperation, and I’m struck by the familiarity of the exchange. “We both know neither of those things is the reason you’ve been ignoring my summons for decades.”
There’s a quiet, intimate accusation there that makes my heart sink. Lore’s hat tightens on my head as if reassuring me, but all it really tells me is that I’m not imagining the way Cressida is looking at him. There’s more there than an assassin who used to work for her, more than a queen ordering one of her lords. There’s history between them that I don’t know about, and I’m not sure I want the details. Yet her expression fades as Lore steps up behind me and wraps his arms around my waist. “Whose dust is on my skin, pet?” he murmurs in my ear. “Who’s wearing my cap right now?” It’s true, a satisfied
Worse still, Cressida and Lore were lovers for decades, though that all stopped when Cressida found her first mate. Although fae understand that relationships outside of mating happen, and are never guaranteed to be permanent, emotions are messy things.
pack it up bro
“The problem”— Lore grins, following him inside—“ is that Rose might want to fuck us, and she won’t do it with your virgin ass sitting there.”
Caed did gain some amazing points this book
“Anyway, I’m fed up with people management. Cressidick wants my toy soldiers? She can order them herself.” He blows a raspberry at the ceiling, and my fists tighten as I realise that’s the direction of the autumn queen’s room. A room he probably knows too much about. Cutting off that jealous thought before it can develop, I force myself to focus on Jaro and Caed and summon a little of Danu’s power.
Like girl, speak up tell him this!!!
“We’ve got plenty of that here.” The other redcap looks beyond him. “But does your mate appreciate it as much as Cress did? I still remember the time she ordered you to take her to her knees in the middle of the Torvyn Estuary Massacre and fuck her in the blood of her—”
Lore’s hand shoots out, snatching the other redcap’s tongue with his claws as rage flares bright and hot in my gut. Every single muscle in my body is taut as Lore cocks his head and smiles.
“Would you rather lose your tongue or your life?” Lore doesn’t seem to care about the two spears levelled at him. “Because my Nicnevin’s as gloriously murderous as I am, and I’m sure she’ll appreciate either.”
Lore and Cressida were both so careful not to trigger any of my possessive instincts while I was in Illidwen. He wore my dust everywhere, and Cressida made certain to never be within touching distance. With her three mates always nearby, and their obvious devotion to one another, I sometimes managed to forget they’d been lovers for centuries.
But I’ve never heard of redcap elders, let alone whatever they’re arguing about.
“Besides,” Lore continues, blinking behind the redcap whose name I still don’t know with a smug smile. “During my mate’s fever, I got to feast on her sweet cunt in the middle of a battle. Far better than just fucking her in the aftermath.”
“You’ve got to start showing my mate more respect, Finchy,” Lore says, and the redcap beneath him trembles with silent laughter.
This scene actually made me so uncomfortable and stopped reading for a while.
“A true redcap mate…” I lean down, closing the distance to whisper darkly in her ear. “Kneels in the middle of the slain after a battle, taking her under fae’s cock in front of the whole troop while he ruts her like a beast.” I lean back, grinning again. “If you ask me, letting me play with your pretty little pussy right in the middle of that slaughter in the Spring Court was even better.”
It’s not the same, and my smart little pet knows it, if the scowl on her face is anything to go by.
“And Cressida did this… with you?”
Abort. Abort. Abort.
Cressidick has done many things to me, a good half of them were agonisingly painful. None of them are things Rose needs to hear about. I shoot a pleading look at Jaro. Surely wolfie will save me? “Rosie,” Jaro mutters, reluctantly. “A lot of battles where redcaps are involved tend to devolve into orgies… I doubt it meant anything to Lore, and Cressida was probably just curious.”
My mate doesn’t back down, and neither does the Goddess’s fury simmering in her eyes. “Does it matter to you?” she presses.
“You’re the only thing that matters to me, pet.”
I don’t think she understands how deep that truth is. Several millennia of boring living tends to strip away the significance of almost anything besides the basic needs— fucking and killing. Now, I want to fuck her and kill her enemies.
i love Lore down which is why It's still SO UNNECESSARY
April 20, 2025
Wow, I'm really glad I waited for the fifth book to come out before reading this one. How cruel!
Absolutely no idea how C will ever be forgiven and alive at the end of all this.
Absolutely no idea how C will ever be forgiven and alive at the end of all this.
July 4, 2024
I was blessed by the amazing Marie with an ARC.
If I could rate this with more than 5 stars I totally would. Marie’s writing just sucks you right in. Watching Rose grow more into herself is such a beautiful thing to see. My heart still bleeds for Caed & Bree.
I cannot wait to see how Rose & her Guards story will conclude.
(I think I’m most excited that book 5 won’t have a gut wrenching cliffy, because this one was BRUTAL!)
If I could rate this with more than 5 stars I totally would. Marie’s writing just sucks you right in. Watching Rose grow more into herself is such a beautiful thing to see. My heart still bleeds for Caed & Bree.
I cannot wait to see how Rose & her Guards story will conclude.
(I think I’m most excited that book 5 won’t have a gut wrenching cliffy, because this one was BRUTAL!)
March 1, 2025
Has my sweet boy Caed not suffered enough?? 😭
This book was excellent. I mean, it broke my heart, but I loved it. The characters continue to be beautifully developed, the plot/romance/spice balance was great (maybe ever so slightly overdone/forced adding the fake heat spicy scene right at the end in the middle all of the chaos), and the pacing was great.
I really enjoyed the plot and the different approaches to each court. I was worried the series might start to feel a bit repetitive with a "get to a court, face a problem, deal with the problem" sort of formula, but this book mixed it up nicely! I mean, I guess at it's bare bones it could boil down to that, but I like that we got a couple of courts that were easier to get the vows, even if they came with their own challenges. It was nice that each court had it's own unique dynamic and story.
It was wonderful seeing Rose's confidence grow and so satisfying for her face the minor royals with a take-no-shit attitude. Her character growth across the series has been beautifully done.
I'm someone who rarely laughs at books but this book made me laugh aloud multiple times throughout. There's a great mix of heavy and light across this book and it was generally just a really entertaining read.
I am both incredibly excited and terrified for the next book because I need this HEA like I need air to breathe, but I also never want it to end 🥲
This book was excellent. I mean, it broke my heart, but I loved it. The characters continue to be beautifully developed, the plot/romance/spice balance was great (maybe ever so slightly overdone/forced adding the fake heat spicy scene right at the end in the middle all of the chaos), and the pacing was great.
I really enjoyed the plot and the different approaches to each court. I was worried the series might start to feel a bit repetitive with a "get to a court, face a problem, deal with the problem" sort of formula, but this book mixed it up nicely! I mean, I guess at it's bare bones it could boil down to that, but I like that we got a couple of courts that were easier to get the vows, even if they came with their own challenges. It was nice that each court had it's own unique dynamic and story.
It was wonderful seeing Rose's confidence grow and so satisfying for her face the minor royals with a take-no-shit attitude. Her character growth across the series has been beautifully done.
I'm someone who rarely laughs at books but this book made me laugh aloud multiple times throughout. There's a great mix of heavy and light across this book and it was generally just a really entertaining read.
I am both incredibly excited and terrified for the next book because I need this HEA like I need air to breathe, but I also never want it to end 🥲
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 13, 2024
"𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘭𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘶𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘸𝘪𝘳𝘭 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘥𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘥, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘐 𝘣𝘶𝘳𝘳𝘰𝘸 𝘥𝘦𝘦𝘱𝘦𝘳 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘮𝘴, 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘯𝘶𝘨𝘨𝘭𝘦 𝘩𝘪𝘮 𝘣𝘦𝘯𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩 𝘢 𝘴𝘩𝘢𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘴𝘬𝘺."
Marie Mistry's cliffhangers are leaving me always devastated. I wish I could tell my past self that they were NOTHING compared to this one! Nothing!!!
As always, let's start from the beginning:
In this book, Rose finally embraces her inner goddess. She's getting stronger, both mentally and physically, and starts to takes matters into her own hands. Her character development is the best, in my opinion.
I wish I could swoon for the rest of the review about Rose's Guard! (Lore's still my favorite, though. He's miiiine) To sum it up, we have Bree, the soft-hearted and shy one, Drystan, the cold but smoldering one, Jaro, the loyal shifter (also functioning as the emotional support), Caed, he's the incarnation of enemies to lovers and Lore, my morally uninhibited and utterly devoted redcap. But they all have so much more personality than just these traits. *swoon*
To avoid spoilers, let me just tell you this about the plot: hot Belgian waffles! What the everloving heck is happening?!??? They will get their HEA. They will, I'm sure of it. I just don't see HOW that will be possible!
Something I loved most in the whole book were the emotions. I cried as much as swooned. Seriously, I was even feeling too much when the scene wasn't sad and just stared at nothing after putting the book aside. Sleep had eluded me, as well as my sanity when I came closer to the end.
I could ramble on and on about how well-written and emotional and thrilling and catching and swoony and just GREAT the book is, but this review already turned out far too long.
Thank all that is holy for only one more book, otherwise I would really need some help dealing with the cliffhangers (and that's not a joke).
5++/5 stars
This is an honest and not influenced ARC review.
Marie Mistry's cliffhangers are leaving me always devastated. I wish I could tell my past self that they were NOTHING compared to this one! Nothing!!!
As always, let's start from the beginning:
In this book, Rose finally embraces her inner goddess. She's getting stronger, both mentally and physically, and starts to takes matters into her own hands. Her character development is the best, in my opinion.
I wish I could swoon for the rest of the review about Rose's Guard! (Lore's still my favorite, though. He's miiiine) To sum it up, we have Bree, the soft-hearted and shy one, Drystan, the cold but smoldering one, Jaro, the loyal shifter (also functioning as the emotional support), Caed, he's the incarnation of enemies to lovers and Lore, my morally uninhibited and utterly devoted redcap. But they all have so much more personality than just these traits. *swoon*
To avoid spoilers, let me just tell you this about the plot: hot Belgian waffles! What the everloving heck is happening?!??? They will get their HEA. They will, I'm sure of it. I just don't see HOW that will be possible!
Something I loved most in the whole book were the emotions. I cried as much as swooned. Seriously, I was even feeling too much when the scene wasn't sad and just stared at nothing after putting the book aside. Sleep had eluded me, as well as my sanity when I came closer to the end.
I could ramble on and on about how well-written and emotional and thrilling and catching and swoony and just GREAT the book is, but this review already turned out far too long.
Thank all that is holy for only one more book, otherwise I would really need some help dealing with the cliffhangers (and that's not a joke).
5++/5 stars
This is an honest and not influenced ARC review.
January 20, 2025
RATING BREAKDOWN
Characters: 4⭐️
Setting: 3.5⭐️
Plot: 3⭐️
Themes: 3⭐️
Personal Enjoyment: 4⭐️
Total Rounded Average: 3.5⭐️
Characters: 4⭐️
Setting: 3.5⭐️
Plot: 3⭐️
Themes: 3⭐️
Personal Enjoyment: 4⭐️
Total Rounded Average: 3.5⭐️
October 14, 2025
*3.75
>:( rtc
>:( rtc
July 7, 2024
ANOTHER DANG CLIFFHANGER. I’m not sure my heart can handle the wait for the next book. I was NOT ready for that ending.
So grateful for the ARC I received from Marie and I can’t wait for the adventure to continue.
So grateful for the ARC I received from Marie and I can’t wait for the adventure to continue.
August 2, 2024
I already need the next one.
OKAY. So I do recognize that books that the last three books have been kind of similar in plot but I ATE IT UP EACH TIME.
Why You Should Read This Series:
1. Did you grow up reading Wattpad or A03? The pacing is giving those really long books that you just cannot put down. I think that is why I am so addicted to the way this series is written. So much happens and yet we are still on the same path.
OR
Do you like playing DND? It kind of gives that as well. There are lots of character interactions, some random fights, and a goal that kind of feels like it could go on forever but also finish in one session. Obviously, this book also has a lot of sex in it, which I am hoping your DND sessions do not, but I guess I won't judge.
2. Do you like books where the characters actually enjoy each other's company? These ones do in a few different ways, and the characters are FUN! I love how they are growing, and it is fun when they all interact with each other.
Sometimes we just have to read because we enjoy reading. And that is what Marie Mistry gives me time and time again.
OKAY. So I do recognize that books that the last three books have been kind of similar in plot but I ATE IT UP EACH TIME.
Why You Should Read This Series:
1. Did you grow up reading Wattpad or A03? The pacing is giving those really long books that you just cannot put down. I think that is why I am so addicted to the way this series is written. So much happens and yet we are still on the same path.
OR
Do you like playing DND? It kind of gives that as well. There are lots of character interactions, some random fights, and a goal that kind of feels like it could go on forever but also finish in one session. Obviously, this book also has a lot of sex in it, which I am hoping your DND sessions do not, but I guess I won't judge.
2. Do you like books where the characters actually enjoy each other's company? These ones do in a few different ways, and the characters are FUN! I love how they are growing, and it is fun when they all interact with each other.
Sometimes we just have to read because we enjoy reading. And that is what Marie Mistry gives me time and time again.
July 21, 2024
That was one of the most evil cliffhangers I’ve read in a long time. I don’t usually review the spicy books. But holy crap these are keeping me up at night. Not because they’re enticing fae smut (thought the spice is very well done in my opinion), but because I can’t go to sleep until I know WHAT IS GOING TO HAPPEN NEXT
evil cliffhanger, Marie. Evil.
evil cliffhanger, Marie. Evil.
July 24, 2024
Wow, that beginning—I loved it. This book was soul-crushing in so many ways, but I am fully team CAED and want him to redeem himself.
BASS picks up where Book 4 left off. I loved that they were able to rescue her mates together. I believe an earlier review by another GR member wrote that Rose was a Mary Sue. Regardless of whether or not she was initially naive and trusting, she's not now. She grows as a woman who knows her own mind and Nicnevin. She finally tells Drystan to back off and trust her. I loved that.
I also loved Prae's journey in this series. I really want her to have her own books, but I feel like we are getting two for the price of one through this book. Poor Caed, despite the heroics of the first half of the book, is still being punished by the harem. I want him to redeem himself to Rose. I miss their banter from Book two when they fell in love before his big betrayal of his father.
That middle-of-book scene almost crushed me. The way his capture and release were handled was so interesting. Mistry left us guessing for the back half, and that was mean. But she left a little spoiler on her FB about what is going to happen to Caed in the next book if you can't wait to find out.
It's almost laughable to me at this point that my entry to Mistry's work was Vice College, I dnf'ed the first book bc I "didn't like demon" books at the time not open to fully appreciating what a masterful storyteller she truly is. Luckily, I went back and reread it and ended up loving it as much as everyone else when I went on my "demon genre" kick. I wish someone had recommended that I read this series or Traitor Witch first.
But regardless of how long it took, I am a huge fan and a subscriber to her Ream because I don't think I can wait that long for the next book.
BASS picks up where Book 4 left off. I loved that they were able to rescue her mates together. I believe an earlier review by another GR member wrote that Rose was a Mary Sue. Regardless of whether or not she was initially naive and trusting, she's not now. She grows as a woman who knows her own mind and Nicnevin. She finally tells Drystan to back off and trust her. I loved that.
I also loved Prae's journey in this series. I really want her to have her own books, but I feel like we are getting two for the price of one through this book. Poor Caed, despite the heroics of the first half of the book, is still being punished by the harem. I want him to redeem himself to Rose. I miss their banter from Book two when they fell in love before his big betrayal of his father.
That middle-of-book scene almost crushed me. The way his capture and release were handled was so interesting. Mistry left us guessing for the back half, and that was mean. But she left a little spoiler on her FB about what is going to happen to Caed in the next book if you can't wait to find out.
It's almost laughable to me at this point that my entry to Mistry's work was Vice College, I dnf'ed the first book bc I "didn't like demon" books at the time not open to fully appreciating what a masterful storyteller she truly is. Luckily, I went back and reread it and ended up loving it as much as everyone else when I went on my "demon genre" kick. I wish someone had recommended that I read this series or Traitor Witch first.
But regardless of how long it took, I am a huge fan and a subscriber to her Ream because I don't think I can wait that long for the next book.
July 10, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
"“Knock knock, motherfuckers,” Maeve yells.
Then she leans back and punches the gates with a war cry that hasn’t been heard in thousands of years.
Shit.
The massive gates fly inwards with a smash that echoes over the mountainside. The entire Winter Court seems to hold its breath as Maeve flickers out of existence, and Rose urges Wraith forwards, taking point.
“My name is Nicnevin Rhoswyn,” she announces as we pass into the city, practically glowing with the unearthly presence of the Goddess. “Fifth chosen daughter of Danu. I am here to collect the vow I am owed. Any who gets in my way will be subject to the Goddess’s justice.”"
***** Review with spoilers *****
Honestly, not a lot to say about this book. It was good, don’t get me wrong, but there just wasn’t much happening. Sure, we saw Rose reach the end of her Pilgrimage and finally put one of the rulers in his place, but something still felt missing. Maybe it’s because this book had a strong buildup vibe, clearly preparing for the war that’s about to break in the next one. So we got a lot of information thrown at us, but not much actual movement, and even the things that did happen didn’t feel that impactful.
Rose did grow a bit of a backbone and finally started to act like the queen she is, while still keeping her sweet nature. There were some moments where the author showed this duality beautifully, and it was really satisfying to read. But in other parts, it was like she backtracked—sometimes still scared and lost like she was in the beginning, and other times bold, confident, and everything you’d expect from a powerful queen. It just felt a little unbalanced.
Her connection with the Guards kept growing, and I really enjoyed the romantic and sexy moments they shared. But I can’t lie — it really bothered me that they still haven’t done the mating ceremony. Their relationship feels stuck, like it can only grow so far without that final step, and it’s starting to feel like it's holding everything back. At this point, I need them to stop postponing it and just do it already.
And Caed? Seriously, did the author really need to go back to that arc? Him betraying them—again—was just too much. I know he didn’t have a choice after being commanded using his true name, but come on. The whole point was that his relationship with the rest of the group was finally being repaired, and now all that progress is gone. I just feel like the author overcomplicated something that was already being fixed. Caed didn’t deserve to go through that again, especially when it’s obvious how much he loves her. He just needed space, and the author could’ve chosen literally any other conflict to move the plot forward.
That said, the author still managed to keep me curious the whole time. I was constantly anxious to start the next book and see what happens. So even with the things that bothered me and the moments I wish were handled differently, this was still a fun, entertaining, and addictive read.
Main characters: Rhoswyn, Jaromir/Jare, Drystan, Caedmon/Caed, Lorcan/Lore, Bricriu/Bree and Wraith (her companion/puppy).
Tropes: chosen one, fated mates, grumpy and sunshine, moraly grey, reverse harem, slow burn, touch her and die.
Supernatural types: they're all fae, but with different powers. Rhoswyn - necromancy and charm, Jare - shifter, Drystan - rare kind of fae that loses his head and hunt the dead to the afterlife, Caedmon - half fae, half fomorian, Lorcan - redcap - he has a magic hat that eats blood and has the storage of Hermione purse, Bree - kind of a shifter too, but with a bunch of magic animals that come out of his tattoos (among other things).
"“Knock knock, motherfuckers,” Maeve yells.
Then she leans back and punches the gates with a war cry that hasn’t been heard in thousands of years.
Shit.
The massive gates fly inwards with a smash that echoes over the mountainside. The entire Winter Court seems to hold its breath as Maeve flickers out of existence, and Rose urges Wraith forwards, taking point.
“My name is Nicnevin Rhoswyn,” she announces as we pass into the city, practically glowing with the unearthly presence of the Goddess. “Fifth chosen daughter of Danu. I am here to collect the vow I am owed. Any who gets in my way will be subject to the Goddess’s justice.”"
***** Review with spoilers *****
Honestly, not a lot to say about this book. It was good, don’t get me wrong, but there just wasn’t much happening. Sure, we saw Rose reach the end of her Pilgrimage and finally put one of the rulers in his place, but something still felt missing. Maybe it’s because this book had a strong buildup vibe, clearly preparing for the war that’s about to break in the next one. So we got a lot of information thrown at us, but not much actual movement, and even the things that did happen didn’t feel that impactful.
Rose did grow a bit of a backbone and finally started to act like the queen she is, while still keeping her sweet nature. There were some moments where the author showed this duality beautifully, and it was really satisfying to read. But in other parts, it was like she backtracked—sometimes still scared and lost like she was in the beginning, and other times bold, confident, and everything you’d expect from a powerful queen. It just felt a little unbalanced.
Her connection with the Guards kept growing, and I really enjoyed the romantic and sexy moments they shared. But I can’t lie — it really bothered me that they still haven’t done the mating ceremony. Their relationship feels stuck, like it can only grow so far without that final step, and it’s starting to feel like it's holding everything back. At this point, I need them to stop postponing it and just do it already.
And Caed? Seriously, did the author really need to go back to that arc? Him betraying them—again—was just too much. I know he didn’t have a choice after being commanded using his true name, but come on. The whole point was that his relationship with the rest of the group was finally being repaired, and now all that progress is gone. I just feel like the author overcomplicated something that was already being fixed. Caed didn’t deserve to go through that again, especially when it’s obvious how much he loves her. He just needed space, and the author could’ve chosen literally any other conflict to move the plot forward.
That said, the author still managed to keep me curious the whole time. I was constantly anxious to start the next book and see what happens. So even with the things that bothered me and the moments I wish were handled differently, this was still a fun, entertaining, and addictive read.
Main characters: Rhoswyn, Jaromir/Jare, Drystan, Caedmon/Caed, Lorcan/Lore, Bricriu/Bree and Wraith (her companion/puppy).
Tropes: chosen one, fated mates, grumpy and sunshine, moraly grey, reverse harem, slow burn, touch her and die.
Supernatural types: they're all fae, but with different powers. Rhoswyn - necromancy and charm, Jare - shifter, Drystan - rare kind of fae that loses his head and hunt the dead to the afterlife, Caedmon - half fae, half fomorian, Lorcan - redcap - he has a magic hat that eats blood and has the storage of Hermione purse, Bree - kind of a shifter too, but with a bunch of magic animals that come out of his tattoos (among other things).
July 13, 2024
Well…
How will I survive the wait after those last 7 words?
From start to finish I was at the edge of my seat. It felt like I was holding my breath. I had to physically remove myself from my phone to breathe at multiple points. I had tears in my eyes. I had butterflies in my stomach. I giggled and squealed in delight. I punched my poor pillows and now I need new ones. I was stressed…I AM stressed.
My heart is still pounding.
And now I have to wait?!?!?
Marie Mistry, you are incredible. I thank you whole heartedly for sharing your talent and this story with the world, but also…MY GOODNESS HOW CAN I MOVE ON FROM THIS BOOK AND WAIT?!?
…
I will try my best to be patient.
Thank you again and have a lovely day.
How will I survive the wait after those last 7 words?
From start to finish I was at the edge of my seat. It felt like I was holding my breath. I had to physically remove myself from my phone to breathe at multiple points. I had tears in my eyes. I had butterflies in my stomach. I giggled and squealed in delight. I punched my poor pillows and now I need new ones. I was stressed…I AM stressed.
My heart is still pounding.
And now I have to wait?!?!?
Marie Mistry, you are incredible. I thank you whole heartedly for sharing your talent and this story with the world, but also…MY GOODNESS HOW CAN I MOVE ON FROM THIS BOOK AND WAIT?!?
…
I will try my best to be patient.
Thank you again and have a lovely day.
July 7, 2024
~ i was able to get an arc through the author’s group so it’s fair for me to leave a review
i was anxiously waiting for this book and it was done so beautifully 🥹
marie’s writing is pretty amazing and she does fantasy and paranormal like no one else… the amount of details, the great world building, the bigger plot and the development of the main characters are just *chef’s kiss*
rose has grown so much and i’m proud of her actions so far, especially on this book…
the mmcs kinda are the ones with the growing up to do and it was so interesting to see rosie putting them in their place and letting her conection with danu strengthen and became seamless
i loved prae’s side story and i softened BADLY for caed (something i couldn’t imagine)… his redemption is a slow one but it’s gonna be SO worth it
and boy the cliffie…. fasten your seatbelts
i was anxiously waiting for this book and it was done so beautifully 🥹
marie’s writing is pretty amazing and she does fantasy and paranormal like no one else… the amount of details, the great world building, the bigger plot and the development of the main characters are just *chef’s kiss*
rose has grown so much and i’m proud of her actions so far, especially on this book…
the mmcs kinda are the ones with the growing up to do and it was so interesting to see rosie putting them in their place and letting her conection with danu strengthen and became seamless
i loved prae’s side story and i softened BADLY for caed (something i couldn’t imagine)… his redemption is a slow one but it’s gonna be SO worth it
and boy the cliffie…. fasten your seatbelts
July 24, 2024
I tried so hard to read this as slowly as I could once I got my hands on it but gosh I couldn’t put it down! This was probably my favorite one of the whole series. While the others were good and had their flaws this one was just tying so many pieces together that made it perfect. Gosh what a ride it was and I can’t wait for the final installment of this series to come out next!!
April 27, 2025
This book dragged a bit, although there were a lot of things happening. The story is as good as in the previous books, but I think it was stretched unnecessarily at this point.
Rose finally shows some backbone. The relationship with her guards is a bit frustrating - two steps forward, one step backwards. Except with Caed, where there is very little development. Honestly, I expected more development of both Rose's character and her relationship with all of her guards.
The cliffhanger was not a surprise.
Rose finally shows some backbone. The relationship with her guards is a bit frustrating - two steps forward, one step backwards. Except with Caed, where there is very little development. Honestly, I expected more development of both Rose's character and her relationship with all of her guards.
The cliffhanger was not a surprise.
July 20, 2024
The first half dragged and I almost didn’t finish. I’m glad I kept on, because the second half was better. Much of the plot was a rehash of what’s already happened, and I felt like it ended in much the same place as it began. I have high hopes that final book will tie everything up nicely!
July 31, 2025
Is it me or is it hot in here.....
This book really ramped up the sexual discoveries, encounters and tension.
Following in the previous books steps this book holds you in a chokehold and really delivers on an excellent story as well as excellent characters.
The various intricacies of the different males starts to show through and makes you empathise with all of them.
The female MC feels tangible without leaning too much into the tropes of being either a warrior princess or a damsel in distress.
I love this series and I have loved discovering the characters and world so far. Let's see how book 5 does.
This book really ramped up the sexual discoveries, encounters and tension.
Following in the previous books steps this book holds you in a chokehold and really delivers on an excellent story as well as excellent characters.
The various intricacies of the different males starts to show through and makes you empathise with all of them.
The female MC feels tangible without leaning too much into the tropes of being either a warrior princess or a damsel in distress.
I love this series and I have loved discovering the characters and world so far. Let's see how book 5 does.
December 23, 2024
Why did I read an unfinished series? I need to know what happens next. Thanks.
October 9, 2025
the world building and charachters suck you in.
May 15, 2025
Oh my gosh oh my gosh oh my gosh. I am spiraling. This is one of the best series I’ve ever read.
July 13, 2024
YES! and then noooo!
I love it, but that cliffhanger - whyyyy? 😩 that’s just killing me! I can’t wait so long till the next!
I love it, but that cliffhanger - whyyyy? 😩 that’s just killing me! I can’t wait so long till the next!
June 7, 2025
Where has this series been my whole life I am OBSESSED
August 6, 2024
Captivating!
This series is so well thought-out. I usually see things coming from a mile away in books, but Mistry weaves in little snippets of foreshadowing like JK Rowling. I love all the little details, like mentioning the picnic, and each of the male MCs are so unique and fleshed out.
So excited for the last installment!
This series is so well thought-out. I usually see things coming from a mile away in books, but Mistry weaves in little snippets of foreshadowing like JK Rowling. I love all the little details, like mentioning the picnic, and each of the male MCs are so unique and fleshed out.
So excited for the last installment!
November 6, 2024
DNF @68%
this series started out strong. the fmc was insanely naive and a bit of a wimp but had a good heart, and i liked the premise and depiction of faerie.
but like all reverse harems, the author lost the plot and it became soooo tedious and boring. i don’t care about any of these characters anymore. five MMCs is just too fucking much.
i have yet to find a reverse harem series that i’m able to finish. i’ve found a couple that i liked at FIRST but they always devolve into this really annoying sex fest with no gusto. bored me to teeeeears.
this series started out strong. the fmc was insanely naive and a bit of a wimp but had a good heart, and i liked the premise and depiction of faerie.
but like all reverse harems, the author lost the plot and it became soooo tedious and boring. i don’t care about any of these characters anymore. five MMCs is just too fucking much.
i have yet to find a reverse harem series that i’m able to finish. i’ve found a couple that i liked at FIRST but they always devolve into this really annoying sex fest with no gusto. bored me to teeeeears.
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