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Evergreen #1
Evergreen
The Annual Gathering of the Five Kingdoms is upon us. The Forest King must have forgotten to post my invite. As the Commander of the Shadow Hunters, I don’t reign over one of the Five Kingdoms of Yterras, but rather the darkness that snakes between their borders, keeping out the plague of evil. All I wanted was respect for our work, and to live within their borders without punishment. Instead, I got shot. I didn’t expect the Forest King to have such a good aim. Or to look like… that. Even in the dark, his auburn-orange eyes pierce through me, and his striking scars make me think he’s hiding just as much as I am. It’s easy to keep my secret hidden when I hate him. When he locks me up and punishes my brother just to get to me. But then I feel the heat of his touch. The electricity in the air around him. And when bitter fights turn into amorous nights, I realize if he knew the real reason I spend my life in the shadows, he’d do far worse than shoot me. I’ve been confined to darkness since the day I was born. I’ve lived for so long in the most intricately-spun web of lies, but when the King and I are forced to face far greater issues together, it all threatens to unravel itself.
512 pages, Paperback
Published November 28, 2023
118 people are currently reading
3762 people want to read
About the author
Autumn Woods
4 books2,279 followersAutumn Woods is an aerospace engineer by day, romance author by evening and weekend. She currently lives in the south west of the UK with Mr. Woods and their dog.
She loves to write strong FMCs and dark & twisty MMCs, wrapping them up in cottagecore and dark academia worlds.
When not writing or reading, she’s usually painting, baking, or spending time outdoors.
She loves to write strong FMCs and dark & twisty MMCs, wrapping them up in cottagecore and dark academia worlds.
When not writing or reading, she’s usually painting, baking, or spending time outdoors.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 202 reviews
December 29, 2023
2.5 Stars
Slight Spoilers Ahead
Thank you to LoveNotes PR for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Me and this book just didn’t vibe. There were a few reasons I enjoyed Evergreen, but unfortunately what I find to be negatives in the writing far outweigh the positives.
What I Liked:
Girls. Supporting. Girls: I’m getting real tired of every ex-love interest being catty, mean, and being there just for the readers to hate her because they want to steal the MMC. I really appreciate that the FMC and ex-love interest in this book build a camaraderie and respect for each other early on.
The World: Could have been immersive had it been done right
What I Personally Didn’t Like:
Modern Vernacular: This book was chalk-full of it, making it read more like something my 12 year old self would have eaten up on Wattpad instead of an adult high fantasy book
Examples Include:
“Baby”
“Clap-Back”
“Feminine Rage”
“Fucking feral”
“I’m very cool”
“I need to bang my wife”
“Nope”
“That’s not very women’s rights of you”
“Pussywhipped”
Fist bumps, etc.
Sadly, Everytime a high fantasy tries to hit me with modern words, I get sucked right out of the story because it just seems like the book is trying too hard to still be relatable with a modern audience.
Dialouge and World-Building: Super oddly paced. Important scenes that I thought should have made an appearance in the book in order to characterize better were simply glossed over or mentioned, but not actually explored.
The World-building was incredibly monolougey and not as developed as well as I would have liked either. I was getting world-building I should have been getting in the first 2 chapters of the book at the 50% mark.
I know romantasy is romance first, but without a decent world system, the tensions and relationships around the characters would just feel useless. To write romance first doesn't necessarily mean the world around you shouldn't have just as much value. I find, the reason why so many well-written romantasies succeed is because the world and its dynamics help push the relations and tensions in the story and adds to the suspense between characters. If you don't care to write with even just the slightest bit more care to the world and logistics outside of the romance, then it severely dampens the quality of the overall romance and vibe of the book.
Lots of things could have been condensed, we were pandering for a while, and for a good chunk of the book, I wondered what exactly the main plot was. I had to skim a few pages. Was it Renna's secret? Was it them finding out the tamperings in the castle?
Characterization: Inconsistent.
We get introduced to the main antagonists early on in the book. Why do we not like them? Cause they’re evil. That’s it. They were such one-dimensional characters and there was no build up or explanation as to why we don’t trust them in the beginning, we just don’t and that’s the way it’s gonna be. The fun thing is they don’t even become the real antagonists in the end! The real antagonists came out of nowhere and had no real connection to the overall story.
Renna as a character was so all over the place. She’s a super stoic, cold, badass assassin with “ice-cool composure”, and that’s the way she’s described by others, but Renna doesn’t present that way at all. She’s very bubbly, outgoing, bright, and kind of a hot mess. Makes you wonder how she became commander.
I would understand if more characterization was given about Renna hiding her “real personality”, but I genuinely think it’s just a characterization inconsistency.
We also find out she’s a sorceress who has suppressed her powers for years. This revelation, despite being the main plot device for our FMC, literally felt like it held no weight whatsoever with how fast it was swept under the rug and resolved. You’re telling me she wasn’t able to use her powers for however long and then she just- does? I’m not saying to have a whole training montage, but the way she came into her powers was not believable at all and again, we didn’t really get to see her learn, we just briefly glossed over it *flat face*
Nobody really went through a character arc and if they did, it was more like they teleported from point A to point B.
Relationship Dynamics: Rexxan and Renna are hardly individuals or characters outside of their relationship. That is all I have to stay about that. Not an enemies to lovers whatsoever. Renna was a commander and Rexxan was a King, yet we hardly see them in these roles at all, especially Renna.
I wanted to enjoy this book, I really did, but it just was not my cup of tea. I think it could have benefitted from some more editing and I feel as though it relied too heavily on its tropes instead of being a good story with said tropes in it.
I will not be continuing on with any more books in the Evergreen series.
- - - - - - -
Again, thank you to LoveNotes PR for an ARC. Please hold off on sending any review less than 4 stars to authors as it is terribly rude and uncalled for.
Slight Spoilers Ahead
Thank you to LoveNotes PR for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Me and this book just didn’t vibe. There were a few reasons I enjoyed Evergreen, but unfortunately what I find to be negatives in the writing far outweigh the positives.
What I Liked:
Girls. Supporting. Girls: I’m getting real tired of every ex-love interest being catty, mean, and being there just for the readers to hate her because they want to steal the MMC. I really appreciate that the FMC and ex-love interest in this book build a camaraderie and respect for each other early on.
The World: Could have been immersive had it been done right
What I Personally Didn’t Like:
Modern Vernacular: This book was chalk-full of it, making it read more like something my 12 year old self would have eaten up on Wattpad instead of an adult high fantasy book
Examples Include:
“Baby”
“Clap-Back”
“Feminine Rage”
“Fucking feral”
“I’m very cool”
“I need to bang my wife”
“Nope”
“That’s not very women’s rights of you”
“Pussywhipped”
Fist bumps, etc.
Sadly, Everytime a high fantasy tries to hit me with modern words, I get sucked right out of the story because it just seems like the book is trying too hard to still be relatable with a modern audience.
Dialouge and World-Building: Super oddly paced. Important scenes that I thought should have made an appearance in the book in order to characterize better were simply glossed over or mentioned, but not actually explored.
The World-building was incredibly monolougey and not as developed as well as I would have liked either. I was getting world-building I should have been getting in the first 2 chapters of the book at the 50% mark.
I know romantasy is romance first, but without a decent world system, the tensions and relationships around the characters would just feel useless. To write romance first doesn't necessarily mean the world around you shouldn't have just as much value. I find, the reason why so many well-written romantasies succeed is because the world and its dynamics help push the relations and tensions in the story and adds to the suspense between characters. If you don't care to write with even just the slightest bit more care to the world and logistics outside of the romance, then it severely dampens the quality of the overall romance and vibe of the book.
Lots of things could have been condensed, we were pandering for a while, and for a good chunk of the book, I wondered what exactly the main plot was. I had to skim a few pages. Was it Renna's secret? Was it them finding out the tamperings in the castle?
Characterization: Inconsistent.
We get introduced to the main antagonists early on in the book. Why do we not like them? Cause they’re evil. That’s it. They were such one-dimensional characters and there was no build up or explanation as to why we don’t trust them in the beginning, we just don’t and that’s the way it’s gonna be. The fun thing is they don’t even become the real antagonists in the end! The real antagonists came out of nowhere and had no real connection to the overall story.
Renna as a character was so all over the place. She’s a super stoic, cold, badass assassin with “ice-cool composure”, and that’s the way she’s described by others, but Renna doesn’t present that way at all. She’s very bubbly, outgoing, bright, and kind of a hot mess. Makes you wonder how she became commander.
I would understand if more characterization was given about Renna hiding her “real personality”, but I genuinely think it’s just a characterization inconsistency.
We also find out she’s a sorceress who has suppressed her powers for years. This revelation, despite being the main plot device for our FMC, literally felt like it held no weight whatsoever with how fast it was swept under the rug and resolved. You’re telling me she wasn’t able to use her powers for however long and then she just- does? I’m not saying to have a whole training montage, but the way she came into her powers was not believable at all and again, we didn’t really get to see her learn, we just briefly glossed over it *flat face*
Nobody really went through a character arc and if they did, it was more like they teleported from point A to point B.
Relationship Dynamics: Rexxan and Renna are hardly individuals or characters outside of their relationship. That is all I have to stay about that. Not an enemies to lovers whatsoever. Renna was a commander and Rexxan was a King, yet we hardly see them in these roles at all, especially Renna.
I wanted to enjoy this book, I really did, but it just was not my cup of tea. I think it could have benefitted from some more editing and I feel as though it relied too heavily on its tropes instead of being a good story with said tropes in it.
I will not be continuing on with any more books in the Evergreen series.
- - - - - - -
Again, thank you to LoveNotes PR for an ARC. Please hold off on sending any review less than 4 stars to authors as it is terribly rude and uncalled for.
October 31, 2023
This review is very near and dear to my heart❤️
Overall Rating: 5/5 ⭐️
Spice Level: 3/5 🌶
Adventure Level: 4/5 ⚔️
It's been a long time since I've connected so much with a book that I genuinely became sad when reaching the end. These characters have an amazing depth to them, and it's hard not to fall head over heels for them.
Autumn builds an intriguing fantasy world with immortals, powers, and magical systems. There is mystery and adventure as well because not everything is as simple as you may think...
The romance in this book is also refreshing as it doesn't follow what we may typically expect from an enemies to lovers trope. It's different in a way that warms your heart, but that's also not to say that there isn't spice because Rexxan and Renna GET IT 🔥
Evergreen officially comes out November 28th 💚
I'm beyond excited to see where this world goes and for all of y'all to get your hands on this book 🫶🏼
Overall Rating: 5/5 ⭐️
Spice Level: 3/5 🌶
Adventure Level: 4/5 ⚔️
It's been a long time since I've connected so much with a book that I genuinely became sad when reaching the end. These characters have an amazing depth to them, and it's hard not to fall head over heels for them.
Autumn builds an intriguing fantasy world with immortals, powers, and magical systems. There is mystery and adventure as well because not everything is as simple as you may think...
The romance in this book is also refreshing as it doesn't follow what we may typically expect from an enemies to lovers trope. It's different in a way that warms your heart, but that's also not to say that there isn't spice because Rexxan and Renna GET IT 🔥
Evergreen officially comes out November 28th 💚
I'm beyond excited to see where this world goes and for all of y'all to get your hands on this book 🫶🏼
November 27, 2023
Evergreen is one of the best reads of 2023! 💚🗡🌲
I did a beta and ARC read for this book, but I promise I will try to keep this review spoiler-free
I think I've probably read every version of Evergreen so far, and what they all had in common was Autumn's poetic way of writing.
She is an excellent author with a brilliant mind and it shows through every word of this book.
This book is not heavy or difficult to read, even though it is a complete fantasy, believe me. You'll be happily pleased to find a lighthearted story, with amazing characters and some funny scenes that will make you forget you're reading.
Autumn introduces us to Yterras. A world similar and different to our own, with 5 kingdoms governing, and having all power connected through 5 stones, which are kept in a vault and protected by the Forest Kingdom.
Rex, our handsome, hot and stubborn MMC, is king of the forest and rules everything with deadly precision, even though his scars go far beyond his skin.
He is the type of character you love with your entire being as every fragment of his mind shows how deep he is with all his emotions, memories and decisions.
He's an incredible leader, a great father, but he doesn't think this life can surprise him anymore. Until he meets Ren.
Ren is a magnificent power of nature. She is extremely loyal, sassy, an super funny person, a great friend and an extraordinary commander. But she hides a secret that she can never tell.
Her leadership (and her stubbornness) lead her to Rex's path. And then, not only her life changes, but also her entire future.
These two form an unbelievable couple, who despite having a lot of emotional damage, find something in each other that they never dared to dream of. Peace.
Don't get me wrong, they're crazy. They will make you mad. But Autumn's writing will reward you with an incredibly sensitive narrative that will carry you through an great, well-developed book.
All of the side characters are so important and amazing that you wish you could read about them on and on.
Evergreen is a book about finding hope where you never thought you would, finding love even if you thought you didn't deserve it, compassion where you normally find animosity, and strength even in your darkest hours.
And I hope you fall in love with this book like I did.
Well done, Autumn Woods, you're a truly superstar!
I did a beta and ARC read for this book, but I promise I will try to keep this review spoiler-free
I think I've probably read every version of Evergreen so far, and what they all had in common was Autumn's poetic way of writing.
She is an excellent author with a brilliant mind and it shows through every word of this book.
This book is not heavy or difficult to read, even though it is a complete fantasy, believe me. You'll be happily pleased to find a lighthearted story, with amazing characters and some funny scenes that will make you forget you're reading.
Autumn introduces us to Yterras. A world similar and different to our own, with 5 kingdoms governing, and having all power connected through 5 stones, which are kept in a vault and protected by the Forest Kingdom.
Rex, our handsome, hot and stubborn MMC, is king of the forest and rules everything with deadly precision, even though his scars go far beyond his skin.
He is the type of character you love with your entire being as every fragment of his mind shows how deep he is with all his emotions, memories and decisions.
He's an incredible leader, a great father, but he doesn't think this life can surprise him anymore. Until he meets Ren.
Ren is a magnificent power of nature. She is extremely loyal, sassy, an super funny person, a great friend and an extraordinary commander. But she hides a secret that she can never tell.
Her leadership (and her stubbornness) lead her to Rex's path. And then, not only her life changes, but also her entire future.
These two form an unbelievable couple, who despite having a lot of emotional damage, find something in each other that they never dared to dream of. Peace.
Don't get me wrong, they're crazy. They will make you mad. But Autumn's writing will reward you with an incredibly sensitive narrative that will carry you through an great, well-developed book.
All of the side characters are so important and amazing that you wish you could read about them on and on.
Evergreen is a book about finding hope where you never thought you would, finding love even if you thought you didn't deserve it, compassion where you normally find animosity, and strength even in your darkest hours.
And I hope you fall in love with this book like I did.
Well done, Autumn Woods, you're a truly superstar!
November 28, 2023
4,25/5
First of all i don´t believe that this is a debut noovel. The writting was so good, and i loved all the characters.
This is a fantasy romance with enemies to lovers, there´s nothing better than that.
The chemistry between Renna and Rexxan was so hot and their development was everything.
Thanks to Love Notes Pr and Autumn Woods for the ARC.
First of all i don´t believe that this is a debut noovel. The writting was so good, and i loved all the characters.
This is a fantasy romance with enemies to lovers, there´s nothing better than that.
The chemistry between Renna and Rexxan was so hot and their development was everything.
Thanks to Love Notes Pr and Autumn Woods for the ARC.
November 27, 2023
If you didn’t know this was the authors debut you wouldn’t be able to tell! The writing was poetic and such a breathe of fresh air that it was such a lovely and enjoyable experience to read this.
This book was everything that it said it was going to be! It’s a romance book with a fantasy setting , that’s more focused on the romance than the fantasy. This doesn’t mean the fantasy aspect wasn’t full filling because it was. It was a rich and interesting world that left me in awe and wonder and wanting to know more about it and it’s people.
This would be the perfect book if you’re in the mood for a fantasy but without the intensity that comes with the world-building.
I am obsessed with the characters. Found family is one of my absolute favourite things to read about it and it’s done so well here. You can’t help but completely fall in love with them because of how well developed and nurtured they are.
I am so excited to see what this author has in store for us because I’m already so invested in onyx’s story the precious little bean.
2.5 🌶️
This book was everything that it said it was going to be! It’s a romance book with a fantasy setting , that’s more focused on the romance than the fantasy. This doesn’t mean the fantasy aspect wasn’t full filling because it was. It was a rich and interesting world that left me in awe and wonder and wanting to know more about it and it’s people.
This would be the perfect book if you’re in the mood for a fantasy but without the intensity that comes with the world-building.
I am obsessed with the characters. Found family is one of my absolute favourite things to read about it and it’s done so well here. You can’t help but completely fall in love with them because of how well developed and nurtured they are.
I am so excited to see what this author has in store for us because I’m already so invested in onyx’s story the precious little bean.
2.5 🌶️
December 3, 2023
Clunky and a bit annoying
To be honest, I really wanted this to be “one of those” books. The premise was there, but sadly the writing was not. Within the first chapter were several typos. The FMC was annoying. And the characters flopped all over the place. One of my biggest pet peeves is when the narrative doesn’t follow through with objects or people; they pop in and out of scenes and then you back up and re-read the last several paragraphs trying to figure out where you missed them appearing or moving. Within the first chapter the King was awaken from a nightmare and was laying in bed, talking with a female character and then suddenly he was chilling, playing with a dagger between his fingers. He never picked it up, I have no idea where it came from, and he never puts it down. Is he just walking around the whole book with this dagger in his hand? A little Edward Scissorhands, but okay. Later, he shoots the FMC in the leg with an arrow, but don’t worry, she totally fine. Or so I’m assuming because ITS NEVER MENTIONED AGAIN. How do you just gloss over an arrow in the leg?! In another scene the FMC and the MMC are at a meeting where he sees her for the first time after she escaped his capture. He confronts her, but then someone pulls out a chair for her to sit on and that’s that. The next thing you know, ITS THREE DAYS LATER! Like, what happened?! And they supposedly have this tension. Anyways, I didn’t finish the book to say the least.
To be honest, I really wanted this to be “one of those” books. The premise was there, but sadly the writing was not. Within the first chapter were several typos. The FMC was annoying. And the characters flopped all over the place. One of my biggest pet peeves is when the narrative doesn’t follow through with objects or people; they pop in and out of scenes and then you back up and re-read the last several paragraphs trying to figure out where you missed them appearing or moving. Within the first chapter the King was awaken from a nightmare and was laying in bed, talking with a female character and then suddenly he was chilling, playing with a dagger between his fingers. He never picked it up, I have no idea where it came from, and he never puts it down. Is he just walking around the whole book with this dagger in his hand? A little Edward Scissorhands, but okay. Later, he shoots the FMC in the leg with an arrow, but don’t worry, she totally fine. Or so I’m assuming because ITS NEVER MENTIONED AGAIN. How do you just gloss over an arrow in the leg?! In another scene the FMC and the MMC are at a meeting where he sees her for the first time after she escaped his capture. He confronts her, but then someone pulls out a chair for her to sit on and that’s that. The next thing you know, ITS THREE DAYS LATER! Like, what happened?! And they supposedly have this tension. Anyways, I didn’t finish the book to say the least.
January 12, 2024
5⭐️s! This fantasy-romance is so underrated and deserves much more attention! The fact that this is her first ever book?! Absolutely incredible.
I loved the balance of our two main characters’ POVs and the pacing through the entire book. The character development all around was enjoyable to see and allowed us to form an attachment to many characters we were introduced to. The found family had me crying several times, and Renna and Rexxan had me GIGGLING IN PUBLIC! Absolutely no control over here. The world of the Five Kingdoms of Yterras was simply so fun to be a part of. I loved the plot and the whirlwind of emotions it made me feel from the first page to the last. This was a great story of an assassin and a king🫶🏼✨
I loved the balance of our two main characters’ POVs and the pacing through the entire book. The character development all around was enjoyable to see and allowed us to form an attachment to many characters we were introduced to. The found family had me crying several times, and Renna and Rexxan had me GIGGLING IN PUBLIC! Absolutely no control over here. The world of the Five Kingdoms of Yterras was simply so fun to be a part of. I loved the plot and the whirlwind of emotions it made me feel from the first page to the last. This was a great story of an assassin and a king🫶🏼✨
November 27, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“To be loved by you, Rennalya, is all I need for the rest of my life.”
‘Evergreen is a fantasy romance novel set in the fictional world of Yterras. It follows Rexxan, King of the Dark Forest, and Renna, Commander of the Shadow Hunters (and a heap of loveable side characters) in their quest to protect the kingdoms from darkness.’
First things first, I am so so proud of Autumn for the release of her debut novel. When I was reading, I could not believe this is her first book as everything was just perfect - the characters, the world building, the romantacy… just everything! As a first time fantasy reader, this for sure had the right amount of romance & fantasy, enough to draw me in but it wasn’t overwhelming.
“I’m no better than all those other men, because I’d kneel at your feet for the rest of my fucking life.”
From their very first meeting, Rexxan & Renna automatically had a dislike for each other. Rex thought Renna was young and immature, and Renna thought Rexxan was old and grumpy. But the longer they spend together, they realised that it could not be further from the truth.
King Rexxan is a DILF through and through, and like Renna, I would not have been able to resist him too! To the outside world, he may appear grouchy but underneath it all, he was a big (and I mean big in more than one way!) teddy bear who cared deeply for his kingdom and the civilians in it.
Renna was a boss ass bitch who simply did not take shit from anyone, and rightly so! She knew how to stand up for herself and protect her secret. Her relationship with Onyx was so beautiful and heart-breaking at the same time. The way Onyx is always there to protect her because that’s what he was taught from a young age means their bond is unbreakable. Renna was also hilarious and her inner monologue had me laughing out loud throughout the majority of the book.
“I’m so hopelessly in love with you, Rennalya, that I’m afraid of what it’ll do to me.”
A special mention goes out to all of the side characters because every single one was supportive and great friends to both Rexxan & Renna! There is one part of the story that I ripped my heart out so I won’t delve into that one because I’ll probably cry again!
‘She thinks I’m not attracted to her, and the thought is almost laughable because I would kill, live, or die for this woman.’
To summarise on the essay above, I am so so proud of Autumn for the release of Evergreen and cannot wait to read more!
Tropes:
• Romantacy
• Enemies-to-Lovers
• Found Family
• Hidden Identity
Thank you Autumn for the ARC of this book.
“To be loved by you, Rennalya, is all I need for the rest of my life.”
‘Evergreen is a fantasy romance novel set in the fictional world of Yterras. It follows Rexxan, King of the Dark Forest, and Renna, Commander of the Shadow Hunters (and a heap of loveable side characters) in their quest to protect the kingdoms from darkness.’
First things first, I am so so proud of Autumn for the release of her debut novel. When I was reading, I could not believe this is her first book as everything was just perfect - the characters, the world building, the romantacy… just everything! As a first time fantasy reader, this for sure had the right amount of romance & fantasy, enough to draw me in but it wasn’t overwhelming.
“I’m no better than all those other men, because I’d kneel at your feet for the rest of my fucking life.”
From their very first meeting, Rexxan & Renna automatically had a dislike for each other. Rex thought Renna was young and immature, and Renna thought Rexxan was old and grumpy. But the longer they spend together, they realised that it could not be further from the truth.
King Rexxan is a DILF through and through, and like Renna, I would not have been able to resist him too! To the outside world, he may appear grouchy but underneath it all, he was a big (and I mean big in more than one way!) teddy bear who cared deeply for his kingdom and the civilians in it.
Renna was a boss ass bitch who simply did not take shit from anyone, and rightly so! She knew how to stand up for herself and protect her secret. Her relationship with Onyx was so beautiful and heart-breaking at the same time. The way Onyx is always there to protect her because that’s what he was taught from a young age means their bond is unbreakable. Renna was also hilarious and her inner monologue had me laughing out loud throughout the majority of the book.
“I’m so hopelessly in love with you, Rennalya, that I’m afraid of what it’ll do to me.”
A special mention goes out to all of the side characters because every single one was supportive and great friends to both Rexxan & Renna! There is one part of the story that I ripped my heart out so I won’t delve into that one because I’ll probably cry again!
‘She thinks I’m not attracted to her, and the thought is almost laughable because I would kill, live, or die for this woman.’
To summarise on the essay above, I am so so proud of Autumn for the release of Evergreen and cannot wait to read more!
Tropes:
• Romantacy
• Enemies-to-Lovers
• Found Family
• Hidden Identity
Thank you Autumn for the ARC of this book.
November 28, 2023
Massive thank you to Lovenotespr and Autumn Woods for a early copy of Evergreen💚
I just finished reading and I am unwell... I miss them all already 🥺 and I will be reading book2 as soon as I am able to!
Wow, guys you aren't ready for this emotional and heartwarming story, do yourselves a favour and check this one out asap! Which will be the 28th of November💚
"An underestimated woman is a lethal weapon"
Renna my dear, I wanna be you when I grow up, she had my support for day one, (I'm glad I'm not the only one who constantly thinks about food😅) she's something else and grows so much through this story, my gosh, she's hilarious, quickwitted, strong, independent, loving, caring supportive, and deserves the world🫶🏻
Rexxan my guy, has been through a great deal of trauma and heartache throughout his years of living, it's not easy being king and holding together multiple kingdoms, so that everyone can live in peace.
"You're a real softie beneath that hard exterior, you know that?" "Tell anyone and I'll skin you alive."
Honestly Rexxan, he was taken with Renna from their first meeting (he denies it, but we all know it's true🤭🥵)
There's plenty of spice so no worries there 😉
Onyx and Stellan our big bad protectors and Renna's family, who will do everything to protect and support her as she leads the shadow hunters as commander and carry out their duties.
Lynna is pure angel and we Stan her💕
"We spend so much time tearing ourselves down in comparison to other women that we forget that what we ought to be doing is building ourselves up with other women."
Big strong woman vibes throughout this whole story👑
"This is what Renna does. Even in the darkest of times, she floods people's lives with joy. She came into my life when my world felt grey, and she has stained it with every colour."
I damn near highlighted the whole book cause there were so many heartfelt moments and conversations I wanted to remember. I'll be thinking about Evergreen always💚
"To anyone who ever hid pieces of themselves to feel safe. I’m sorry, you deserve so much more."
"I’ve never met someone so conflicting. Everything in my life has been black and white, but Renna is an orchard of colour."
I just finished reading and I am unwell... I miss them all already 🥺 and I will be reading book2 as soon as I am able to!
Wow, guys you aren't ready for this emotional and heartwarming story, do yourselves a favour and check this one out asap! Which will be the 28th of November💚
"An underestimated woman is a lethal weapon"
Renna my dear, I wanna be you when I grow up, she had my support for day one, (I'm glad I'm not the only one who constantly thinks about food😅) she's something else and grows so much through this story, my gosh, she's hilarious, quickwitted, strong, independent, loving, caring supportive, and deserves the world🫶🏻
Rexxan my guy, has been through a great deal of trauma and heartache throughout his years of living, it's not easy being king and holding together multiple kingdoms, so that everyone can live in peace.
"You're a real softie beneath that hard exterior, you know that?" "Tell anyone and I'll skin you alive."
Honestly Rexxan, he was taken with Renna from their first meeting (he denies it, but we all know it's true🤭🥵)
There's plenty of spice so no worries there 😉
Onyx and Stellan our big bad protectors and Renna's family, who will do everything to protect and support her as she leads the shadow hunters as commander and carry out their duties.
Lynna is pure angel and we Stan her💕
"We spend so much time tearing ourselves down in comparison to other women that we forget that what we ought to be doing is building ourselves up with other women."
Big strong woman vibes throughout this whole story👑
"This is what Renna does. Even in the darkest of times, she floods people's lives with joy. She came into my life when my world felt grey, and she has stained it with every colour."
I damn near highlighted the whole book cause there were so many heartfelt moments and conversations I wanted to remember. I'll be thinking about Evergreen always💚
"To anyone who ever hid pieces of themselves to feel safe. I’m sorry, you deserve so much more."
"I’ve never met someone so conflicting. Everything in my life has been black and white, but Renna is an orchard of colour."
December 5, 2023
I got this book as an ARC and I’m in love with it.
Autumn described this magical world so well that we could fully experience it. Even though I'm a fan of non-fiction I still enjoyed it.
The characters of the book and their features are also well written. Ren and Rex in my heart🤍💚
I laughed. I cried. I blushed. During all book.
It has two of my favourite tropes
✨enemies to lovers💕
✨grumpy and sunshine☀️
Oh.. sorry… three of my favourite ones
✨ age gap too😏
Autumn described this magical world so well that we could fully experience it. Even though I'm a fan of non-fiction I still enjoyed it.
The characters of the book and their features are also well written. Ren and Rex in my heart🤍💚
I laughed. I cried. I blushed. During all book.
It has two of my favourite tropes
✨enemies to lovers💕
✨grumpy and sunshine☀️
Oh.. sorry… three of my favourite ones
✨ age gap too😏
December 5, 2023
First of all, thank you to the author for this wonderful ARC reading opportunity. I can't believe this was a debut. Autumn Woods is a phenomenal author with a brilliant mind. I adore light fantasy books like this - it wasn't heavy nor difficult to read, but it was a fantastic read. The humour and characters were superb. I would urge anyone with a love for light romantasy to pick this one up <3
November 22, 2023
Off to a strong start with Evergreen being my first ever ARC read, I'm still in the beginning/world building stages of the book and it's safe to say I'm absolutely hooked!! I'm really loving the sprinkle of humor throughout the pages. Rexxan is a hardcore grouch and it takes a bit to warm up to him, but so far I'm really enjoying the dynamic between him and Renna.
With that being said, I'm going to continue on with this read and be back to update my review further!
I hope everyone enjoys this read as much as I already am 💚🖤
With that being said, I'm going to continue on with this read and be back to update my review further!
I hope everyone enjoys this read as much as I already am 💚🖤
November 18, 2023
THIS BOOK! Honestly, it may just be my favourite of 2023. laughed, I blushed, I sobbed at 2 in the morning. But more than anything, I simply could not get enough. The style of writing was amazing, poetic and beautiful. The characters were complex and in depth, I found myself loving the side characters just as much as the main ones, in some cases more. The plot line was incredible, not too fast, not too slow. There was a perfect amount of smut. It’s all I hoped for and so much more! I would 100% recommend this book!
𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐰𝐡𝐨 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞:
🌲 Enemies to Lovers
🗡️ Dark Fantasy aesthetic
🌲 Cottagecore/ Outdoorsy vibes
🗡️ Romantasy
🌲 Realistic Trauma
🗡️ Hidden Identity
🌲 King/ Assassin romance
🗡️ touch her and she’ll kill you, I don’t have to vibes
🌲 hate everyone but you vibes
🗡️ Found family
𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐨𝐫 𝐬𝐩𝐨𝐢𝐥𝐞𝐫𝐬- 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐚𝐯𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐪𝐮𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐬
“We've found a sense of home in each other.”
“I can't die now. Not while I have biscuits in my bag that I haven't even opened.”
"Let's not pretend you're a gentleman, Rexxan. You're not fooling anyone." "I've claimed many titles in my life, Renna. A gentleman is not one of them."
"What do you want with my jacket?" "It'll keep me warm. What do you want with my underwear?" Mirth dances in those bronze eyes. "It'll keep me warm."
“I love making bad decisions.”
"Insult my people, beat me in a fight, put me in prison, but do not mess with my motherfucking food!"
“I'm too pretty for all this shit.”
“3 pm Onyx was very naive. 3 am Onyx is fucking hammered.”
“Shit, I'd find a way to rearrange the constellations in the sky if she asked me to.”
"Talk finances to me in bed one more time and I'll kill you," I warn, and he laughs out loud. I like that I can make him laugh despite the horrors around us.
"Better marry me before you do, sweetheart," he purrs, his tongue running over his white teeth in an arrogant grin. "That'd be one hell of an inheritance."
“He has become my home. I'm not sure I could pinpoint the moment that this happened to me, but it did. He is where I want to be at the end of my day. I never thought I'd find something like that.”
"Shit. She needs bodyguards?" I snort at the suggestion. Not my girl.”
There are so many more quotes, but unless I just copy paste the book on here, I don’t think it’ll be enough.
This book comes out on the 28th of November 2023. Go order it right now!!!
𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐰𝐡𝐨 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞:
🌲 Enemies to Lovers
🗡️ Dark Fantasy aesthetic
🌲 Cottagecore/ Outdoorsy vibes
🗡️ Romantasy
🌲 Realistic Trauma
🗡️ Hidden Identity
🌲 King/ Assassin romance
🗡️ touch her and she’ll kill you, I don’t have to vibes
🌲 hate everyone but you vibes
🗡️ Found family
𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐨𝐫 𝐬𝐩𝐨𝐢𝐥𝐞𝐫𝐬- 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐚𝐯𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐪𝐮𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐬
“We've found a sense of home in each other.”
“I can't die now. Not while I have biscuits in my bag that I haven't even opened.”
"Let's not pretend you're a gentleman, Rexxan. You're not fooling anyone." "I've claimed many titles in my life, Renna. A gentleman is not one of them."
"What do you want with my jacket?" "It'll keep me warm. What do you want with my underwear?" Mirth dances in those bronze eyes. "It'll keep me warm."
“I love making bad decisions.”
"Insult my people, beat me in a fight, put me in prison, but do not mess with my motherfucking food!"
“I'm too pretty for all this shit.”
“3 pm Onyx was very naive. 3 am Onyx is fucking hammered.”
“Shit, I'd find a way to rearrange the constellations in the sky if she asked me to.”
"Talk finances to me in bed one more time and I'll kill you," I warn, and he laughs out loud. I like that I can make him laugh despite the horrors around us.
"Better marry me before you do, sweetheart," he purrs, his tongue running over his white teeth in an arrogant grin. "That'd be one hell of an inheritance."
“He has become my home. I'm not sure I could pinpoint the moment that this happened to me, but it did. He is where I want to be at the end of my day. I never thought I'd find something like that.”
"Shit. She needs bodyguards?" I snort at the suggestion. Not my girl.”
There are so many more quotes, but unless I just copy paste the book on here, I don’t think it’ll be enough.
This book comes out on the 28th of November 2023. Go order it right now!!!
January 8, 2024
I enjoyed this book for the most part!! Hats off to Autumn for a wonderfully written debut novel.
There are elements to this that I super loved, but also elements that I super didn’t love. Nothing that breaks the book and makes it terrible, but that just didn’t work for me.
What I do love:
- found family
- Rexxan basically coming back to life with Renna
- Poppy
- The fact that Rexxan is the Forest King and I legit want to live there
- Super easy to follow fantasy world building
What I didn’t love:
- A few inconsistencies in plot
- Strange pacing (like I legit was baffled several times when we were told it had been 5 months at one point)
- Characters who just felt too young for me. Our FMC, Renna, while a really fun, strong, thoughtful, and great character, felt like a 16 year old girl to me, and it just didn’t sit well with me. I read another review that Renna and Rexxan felt more like father-daughter (except for the sex lol) and I absolutely agree.
- the smut was too icky for me lol, I skipped every single one bc it made me feel gross
- Side characters felt really flat even though they meant a lot to our main characters
All in all, this is a good book and I had a good time, just not the perfect book for me ((:
There are elements to this that I super loved, but also elements that I super didn’t love. Nothing that breaks the book and makes it terrible, but that just didn’t work for me.
What I do love:
- found family
- Rexxan basically coming back to life with Renna
- Poppy
- The fact that Rexxan is the Forest King and I legit want to live there
- Super easy to follow fantasy world building
What I didn’t love:
- A few inconsistencies in plot
- Strange pacing (like I legit was baffled several times when we were told it had been 5 months at one point)
- Characters who just felt too young for me. Our FMC, Renna, while a really fun, strong, thoughtful, and great character, felt like a 16 year old girl to me, and it just didn’t sit well with me. I read another review that Renna and Rexxan felt more like father-daughter (except for the sex lol) and I absolutely agree.
- the smut was too icky for me lol, I skipped every single one bc it made me feel gross
- Side characters felt really flat even though they meant a lot to our main characters
All in all, this is a good book and I had a good time, just not the perfect book for me ((:
November 17, 2023
ARC READ
4.5 stars
I'm so lucky to have been able to read this as an ARC! I will try to keep this review spoiler free.
Autumn Woods has such a way with words, it honestly left me entranced from start to finish. The book doesn't feel as though it drags, nor is it very heavy to read, especially with the world-building that's incorporated.
Romantasy is one of my favorites but even then, Evergreen even leaves you with a bit of mystery as well. Also, the romance doesn't follow everything that can be found in your average enemies-to-lovers read and I think that's what made this so much more unique to me. I'd give the spice a 4 on the meter.
As wild as the plot can get at times, it does have a HEA ending that just feels so wholesome and deserving of its characters.
Evergreen comes out on November 28, you can pre-order it now on Amazon!
4.5 stars
I'm so lucky to have been able to read this as an ARC! I will try to keep this review spoiler free.
Autumn Woods has such a way with words, it honestly left me entranced from start to finish. The book doesn't feel as though it drags, nor is it very heavy to read, especially with the world-building that's incorporated.
Romantasy is one of my favorites but even then, Evergreen even leaves you with a bit of mystery as well. Also, the romance doesn't follow everything that can be found in your average enemies-to-lovers read and I think that's what made this so much more unique to me. I'd give the spice a 4 on the meter.
As wild as the plot can get at times, it does have a HEA ending that just feels so wholesome and deserving of its characters.
Evergreen comes out on November 28, you can pre-order it now on Amazon!
November 29, 2023
wooowww!!!
honestly I will be thinking about this book for the rest of my life.
Rexxan, the King of the Forest, runs into a trespasser in his kingdom and obviously takes action to shooting an arrow at the culprit…
Which just so happens to be Renna, the Commander of the Shadow Hunters A.K.A bad ass assassin.
These two hate each other but band together to fight off the people that are trying to access the vault that is closed off to anyone but a few Kings and Queens of different realms.
During all this chaos… Rexxan and Renna find each other inseparable. They can’t keep their minds from wondering to the other person (and also their hands 🫣😉)
I loveddddd this book just because of the aesthetic, the relationships between literally all of the characters, the plot twists, the heart-wrenching words, and the freaking spice was SPICING 🤌🏻 don’t sleep on this book besties!!
*releases 11.28.23*
Tropes:
•enemies to lovers
•age gap
•hidden identity
•grumpy X sunshine
•found family
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
honestly I will be thinking about this book for the rest of my life.
Rexxan, the King of the Forest, runs into a trespasser in his kingdom and obviously takes action to shooting an arrow at the culprit…
Which just so happens to be Renna, the Commander of the Shadow Hunters A.K.A bad ass assassin.
These two hate each other but band together to fight off the people that are trying to access the vault that is closed off to anyone but a few Kings and Queens of different realms.
During all this chaos… Rexxan and Renna find each other inseparable. They can’t keep their minds from wondering to the other person (and also their hands 🫣😉)
I loveddddd this book just because of the aesthetic, the relationships between literally all of the characters, the plot twists, the heart-wrenching words, and the freaking spice was SPICING 🤌🏻 don’t sleep on this book besties!!
*releases 11.28.23*
Tropes:
•enemies to lovers
•age gap
•hidden identity
•grumpy X sunshine
•found family
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
December 13, 2023
phenomenal debut !! if you’re a romance reader looking to get more into fantasy this is it !!! it’s definitely a romance book set in a fantasy world. the world building was super easy to understand. i’m completely obsessed with this book wow i loved it so much.
💚🌲 ⚔️ 🪴✨🌿🗡️🧚🏻🍓
the writing was SO beautiful i’ve tabbed this book so much. The plot was so captivating and i’m in love with the characters. the romance was beautiful!! everything was just wow. even the side characters had so much to add to the story which i loved.
i love you rex & renna 🫶🏻🫶🏻
the undeniably chemistry and the love they have for each other was insane.
💚🌲 ⚔️ 🪴✨🌿🗡️🧚🏻🍓
the writing was SO beautiful i’ve tabbed this book so much. The plot was so captivating and i’m in love with the characters. the romance was beautiful!! everything was just wow. even the side characters had so much to add to the story which i loved.
i love you rex & renna 🫶🏻🫶🏻
the undeniably chemistry and the love they have for each other was insane.
November 19, 2023
ARC REVIEW
This world is so magical!!! Fast paced, unique characters and a page-turning plot line.
This book made me giggle and cry. It also made me fall in love with amazing characters. I can't wait to read more about them and getting to know some of them more closely.
I was so excited to read this book and it surpassed my expectations!!!! Can’t wait for the next book!!!
This world is so magical!!! Fast paced, unique characters and a page-turning plot line.
This book made me giggle and cry. It also made me fall in love with amazing characters. I can't wait to read more about them and getting to know some of them more closely.
I was so excited to read this book and it surpassed my expectations!!!! Can’t wait for the next book!!!
December 4, 2023
ARC Review
Ratings: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
🌶️: 3/5
✧"𝑳𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒌𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒖𝒔 𝒂𝒍𝒍"✧
✧"𝑳𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒔𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒖𝒔 𝒂𝒍𝒍"✧
Meet one of my Top reads this year.
This book is an absolute masterpiece and I mean it. I can't even believe it's the writer's debut novel‼️ I mean the writing, the world building, everything was so easy but still loveable💚I never thought I would love a fantasy book this much!!
I'm so in love with this book yall can't even understand😭 I loved every inch of it and there wasn't even a chapter that I got bored. There's always things happening, plot twists , mystery everything 👑 and lemme tell you Renna (fmc) alone is enough to keep you hooked on this everytime, she so funny 🤣this made me feel all emotions at once 🫠 I cried, laughed, tensed, loved!!
Let's about characters!! Rexxan!The man he is😭Ik morally gray are always my favs but there's just something extra about this man. His povs were the best , the way he talks about Renna🤌🏻🤌🏻 and he literally kills the man who disrespected her‼️ there just something extra about men who gives the "TOUCH HER AND U DIE" vibes🧏🏻♀️
Renna! She's just Soo me coded 😍 Always joking at the serious times. But she's so challenging, strong and independent and BADASS‼️Badass girls are just my fav💞
Ok now I'm gonna complain a little 😀 How dare the writer kills my fav side character‼️ I loved him so much😭 why did you have to do that and I was so tense about you doing the same to ONYX! But thank God u didn't 🫠
Overall this book was everything and it's Soo easily written, I'm so thankful that I got to read this💞 and I'm overly excited for Onyx's book , hope it's gonna be with Lynna👀 also if the writer decides to write a 3rd book I'm very much curious to see some Espan or Siddie content 👀And yess Siddie ! I love that boy😚
A must read for any Romantasy lover!💞💚
Ratings: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
🌶️: 3/5
✧"𝑳𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒌𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒖𝒔 𝒂𝒍𝒍"✧
✧"𝑳𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒔𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒖𝒔 𝒂𝒍𝒍"✧
Meet one of my Top reads this year.
This book is an absolute masterpiece and I mean it. I can't even believe it's the writer's debut novel‼️ I mean the writing, the world building, everything was so easy but still loveable💚I never thought I would love a fantasy book this much!!
I'm so in love with this book yall can't even understand😭 I loved every inch of it and there wasn't even a chapter that I got bored. There's always things happening, plot twists , mystery everything 👑 and lemme tell you Renna (fmc) alone is enough to keep you hooked on this everytime, she so funny 🤣this made me feel all emotions at once 🫠 I cried, laughed, tensed, loved!!
Let's about characters!! Rexxan!The man he is😭Ik morally gray are always my favs but there's just something extra about this man. His povs were the best , the way he talks about Renna🤌🏻🤌🏻 and he literally kills the man who disrespected her‼️ there just something extra about men who gives the "TOUCH HER AND U DIE" vibes🧏🏻♀️
Renna! She's just Soo me coded 😍 Always joking at the serious times. But she's so challenging, strong and independent and BADASS‼️Badass girls are just my fav💞
Ok now I'm gonna complain a little 😀 How dare the writer kills my fav side character‼️ I loved him so much😭 why did you have to do that and I was so tense about you doing the same to ONYX! But thank God u didn't 🫠
Overall this book was everything and it's Soo easily written, I'm so thankful that I got to read this💞 and I'm overly excited for Onyx's book , hope it's gonna be with Lynna👀 also if the writer decides to write a 3rd book I'm very much curious to see some Espan or Siddie content 👀And yess Siddie ! I love that boy😚
A must read for any Romantasy lover!💞💚
Read
February 1, 2025I actually cannot publish my thoughts on the book because it would be too mean but I did not enjoy this
December 30, 2023
4.5
I absolutely love a romance in a fantasy world. For a debut novel, this was sooo good. If a book can make me laugh AND cry...yeah, it's good.
Renna is a fantastic character. Truly. I absolutely loved her sense of humor and wit. She was not afraid to put anyone in their place and she never sugar coated anything. She was tough but also so full of love.
Rexxan was also a wonderful character. I LOVED watching his character development. A big 'ol, broody, grumpy, love-hating, bantering man BUT I loved every second of it. He was weak for no on but his son and Renna and I loved that so much about him.
Two people who have seen and been through of a lot. Their pasts haunt them daily but together they continue on and show each other how much they are truly worth. It's a beautiful story, really.
You give me an enemies to lovers and I will eat it up, every time. The banter was great and I love that despite their hatred for one another, they were always like, "let's just bang it out, it'll go away". I also really appreciate their relationship didn't happen over a course of a few days and instant love. I love that there were weeks and months apart and then they'd be like "damn, I still feel it".
I think at times, I got lost with the fantasy world part just because I was so consumed by their romance. We had a lot of names which I just always assumed was someone in their inner circles. I do like that I was, for the most part, able to follow the world building and the overall plot of the "war" and "end goal". There was a lot going on at times. I hate to say it but I do feel like this could have been a tad bit shorter but I'm not mad at it.
I really want to talk about three other people though. Onyx, Stellan, and Lynna. OH WAIT AND OBSIDIAN. Okay, so four.
Onyx, how I want to hug this man and just be like "GO LIVE YOUR LIFE HOW YOU WANT". I really liked this character. He's been trained to protect and kill and has been doing it for so long he sees nothing else. He cares so much for his sister that he's willing to stop himself from truly living. I was really hoping we'd get a Onyx and Lynna moment but book two????
Lynna is a badass and I loved her character. I love when Renna was like, "Rex is stupid for not marrying you" because everyone clearly sees how great she is. I also think she's aesthetically great...the flowers and ethereal concept she's got going? That's just like, so...pretty!
Stellan. I don't really want to talk about it, okay?? I have so much love for this character. He's the golden retriever we all want to hug and just be around. I loved his personality and honestly, I'd be besties with him in a heartbeat. I'm still processing everything with him and I just...I have no words with how I feel.
Obsidian, Rex's son, was actually ADORABLE. I loved Renna and him meeting for the first time. I was just so poetic and appropriate considering their personalities. Iconic, really. I wish we had more of him in this book. Book two or three??? Please.
The last 25% of this book had me EMOTIONAL. I'm sad and it's so bittersweet because we do get somewhat of a happy ending. I always knew Poppy was going to be a factor and I loved that. I love seeing Rex as a dad, it's so cute.
Overall, this was a really good read. I laughed and cried and definitely held my breath during some of the fights. I loved the banter and tension and relationship building. We get a lot of spice and it was wonderful.
I just wish we had more explanation or details on what Renna really was and the progress she had been making. But again, this was a romance story in a fantasy world so I get it.
I wanted more Obsidian. I really loved his personality and from the little we get, I know I would LOVE him so much because I kind of already do. I wanted another romance to start blooming but I will wait for it to happen!
I really like the world Autumn built here and I can't wait to read more!
I absolutely love a romance in a fantasy world. For a debut novel, this was sooo good. If a book can make me laugh AND cry...yeah, it's good.
Renna is a fantastic character. Truly. I absolutely loved her sense of humor and wit. She was not afraid to put anyone in their place and she never sugar coated anything. She was tough but also so full of love.
Rexxan was also a wonderful character. I LOVED watching his character development. A big 'ol, broody, grumpy, love-hating, bantering man BUT I loved every second of it. He was weak for no on but his son and Renna and I loved that so much about him.
Two people who have seen and been through of a lot. Their pasts haunt them daily but together they continue on and show each other how much they are truly worth. It's a beautiful story, really.
You give me an enemies to lovers and I will eat it up, every time. The banter was great and I love that despite their hatred for one another, they were always like, "let's just bang it out, it'll go away". I also really appreciate their relationship didn't happen over a course of a few days and instant love. I love that there were weeks and months apart and then they'd be like "damn, I still feel it".
I think at times, I got lost with the fantasy world part just because I was so consumed by their romance. We had a lot of names which I just always assumed was someone in their inner circles. I do like that I was, for the most part, able to follow the world building and the overall plot of the "war" and "end goal". There was a lot going on at times. I hate to say it but I do feel like this could have been a tad bit shorter but I'm not mad at it.
I really want to talk about three other people though. Onyx, Stellan, and Lynna. OH WAIT AND OBSIDIAN. Okay, so four.
Onyx, how I want to hug this man and just be like "GO LIVE YOUR LIFE HOW YOU WANT". I really liked this character. He's been trained to protect and kill and has been doing it for so long he sees nothing else. He cares so much for his sister that he's willing to stop himself from truly living. I was really hoping we'd get a Onyx and Lynna moment but book two????
Lynna is a badass and I loved her character. I love when Renna was like, "Rex is stupid for not marrying you" because everyone clearly sees how great she is. I also think she's aesthetically great...the flowers and ethereal concept she's got going? That's just like, so...pretty!
Stellan. I don't really want to talk about it, okay?? I have so much love for this character. He's the golden retriever we all want to hug and just be around. I loved his personality and honestly, I'd be besties with him in a heartbeat. I'm still processing everything with him and I just...I have no words with how I feel.
Obsidian, Rex's son, was actually ADORABLE. I loved Renna and him meeting for the first time. I was just so poetic and appropriate considering their personalities. Iconic, really. I wish we had more of him in this book. Book two or three??? Please.
The last 25% of this book had me EMOTIONAL. I'm sad and it's so bittersweet because we do get somewhat of a happy ending. I always knew Poppy was going to be a factor and I loved that. I love seeing Rex as a dad, it's so cute.
Overall, this was a really good read. I laughed and cried and definitely held my breath during some of the fights. I loved the banter and tension and relationship building. We get a lot of spice and it was wonderful.
I just wish we had more explanation or details on what Renna really was and the progress she had been making. But again, this was a romance story in a fantasy world so I get it.
I wanted more Obsidian. I really loved his personality and from the little we get, I know I would LOVE him so much because I kind of already do. I wanted another romance to start blooming but I will wait for it to happen!
I really like the world Autumn built here and I can't wait to read more!
November 26, 2023
4.5
First and foremost, I am thrilled that I had the opportunity to read the ARC. Thank you so much.
I am going to preface this by saying that I am not a fantasy girlie, but I ATE THIS UP. I have never read a fantasy book in which I can so easily dive into the world and not have to second guess every single thing that's going on. The writing was extremely clear and precise and this is just one of those books that you can tell had a lot of work put into it. I honestly hope that this is a series in which all my favorite characters are featured.
The two main characters' interactions with each other feel extremely natural and have me invested from start to finish. I laughed, I cried, I was INVESTED. I can truly say this is my book of the year and mean it with confidence.
The only reason this book isn't a full 5 stars for me is because there were instances where it got repetitive and that's something that took me out of it at times.
Tropes:
enemies to lovers
dual pov
close proximity
(I'll update this list later because I really am blanking right now)
If you love romatasy, this is a MUST.
First and foremost, I am thrilled that I had the opportunity to read the ARC. Thank you so much.
I am going to preface this by saying that I am not a fantasy girlie, but I ATE THIS UP. I have never read a fantasy book in which I can so easily dive into the world and not have to second guess every single thing that's going on. The writing was extremely clear and precise and this is just one of those books that you can tell had a lot of work put into it. I honestly hope that this is a series in which all my favorite characters are featured.
The two main characters' interactions with each other feel extremely natural and have me invested from start to finish. I laughed, I cried, I was INVESTED. I can truly say this is my book of the year and mean it with confidence.
The only reason this book isn't a full 5 stars for me is because there were instances where it got repetitive and that's something that took me out of it at times.
Tropes:
enemies to lovers
dual pov
close proximity
(I'll update this list later because I really am blanking right now)
If you love romatasy, this is a MUST.
December 1, 2023
4.5⭐️
💚Enemies-to-lovers
💚Romantic Fantasy
💚Hidden Identity
💚King/Assassin
💚Hilarious and excellent banter
This is a true romantic fantasy, not a fantasy with a sprinkle of romance and I found it to be refreshing. I loved all of the side characters and the relationship between the two mains was perfect.
This book would be perfect for somebody wanting to dip into fantasy, the world-building is beautiful and easy to follow. The main focus is on romance and not the fantasy aspect would make it perfect for somebody looking to ease into the genre. I loved everything about this book, highlighted my butt off over all the sassy and crazy things these characters said. I 100% recommend this book.
💚Enemies-to-lovers
💚Romantic Fantasy
💚Hidden Identity
💚King/Assassin
💚Hilarious and excellent banter
This is a true romantic fantasy, not a fantasy with a sprinkle of romance and I found it to be refreshing. I loved all of the side characters and the relationship between the two mains was perfect.
This book would be perfect for somebody wanting to dip into fantasy, the world-building is beautiful and easy to follow. The main focus is on romance and not the fantasy aspect would make it perfect for somebody looking to ease into the genre. I loved everything about this book, highlighted my butt off over all the sassy and crazy things these characters said. I 100% recommend this book.
November 28, 2023
That. Was the best 482 pages of my life.
I actually don’t know what I’m supposed to say because I know I need to write a review because it’s an ARC copy but I’m just completely gobsmacked. I’m going to say review to come because I need a minute to actually formulate words I’m still sobbing. I think I have been since like 49% so make of that what you will.
19.11.2023
This book was so beautifully written and I LOVED the way that the world building was incorporated into the story. I find it really difficult to read a huge chunk of world building (like Priory of the Orange Tree) so this was a really nice way for me to rekindle my love of fantasy. The characters were all incredibly well written and actually had a personality which made it so much easier to read. I honestly didn’t even notice that this was nearly 500 pages long because it was that well written.
Everyone had a good amount of development and it was refreshing to see that Renna wasn’t always extremely confident (typical of a fantasy FMC) and that Rex had his faults but recognised them. This allowed both of them to have so much more depth and therefore meant you could connect with them on another level.
Stellan, Onyx, Lynna, Siddie, Poppy and all the other characters actually added to the story. I’m so fed up of characters just being created for the sake of it, all of these had meaning to the leads and added to the plot.
Speaking of plot, I HAVE WHIPLASH. Although you could kind of guess what the tragedy would be that didn’t make it any less exciting. The way that it was written was phenomenal and I can’t say too much for fear of spoiling it.
So honoured to have been able to read the ARC of this and will be purchasing a physical copy as soon as I can 😌
I actually don’t know what I’m supposed to say because I know I need to write a review because it’s an ARC copy but I’m just completely gobsmacked. I’m going to say review to come because I need a minute to actually formulate words I’m still sobbing. I think I have been since like 49% so make of that what you will.
19.11.2023
This book was so beautifully written and I LOVED the way that the world building was incorporated into the story. I find it really difficult to read a huge chunk of world building (like Priory of the Orange Tree) so this was a really nice way for me to rekindle my love of fantasy. The characters were all incredibly well written and actually had a personality which made it so much easier to read. I honestly didn’t even notice that this was nearly 500 pages long because it was that well written.
Everyone had a good amount of development and it was refreshing to see that Renna wasn’t always extremely confident (typical of a fantasy FMC) and that Rex had his faults but recognised them. This allowed both of them to have so much more depth and therefore meant you could connect with them on another level.
Stellan, Onyx, Lynna, Siddie, Poppy and all the other characters actually added to the story. I’m so fed up of characters just being created for the sake of it, all of these had meaning to the leads and added to the plot.
Speaking of plot, I HAVE WHIPLASH. Although you could kind of guess what the tragedy would be that didn’t make it any less exciting. The way that it was written was phenomenal and I can’t say too much for fear of spoiling it.
So honoured to have been able to read the ARC of this and will be purchasing a physical copy as soon as I can 😌
March 23, 2024
First of all, congratulations to Autumn Woods for having her daydreams published. And what daydreams they are. This book was so pleasant from start to finish. I found it to be a refreshing walk through Yterras with Renna and Rexxan. The wit is quick and will make you giggle aloud and the violence is covered just enough to make the characters and the story well-rounded without being long and torturous scenes.
My only complaint is that the grammatical errors and strange word choices were a bit distracting at times, but that’s to be expected of a first-time author. Autumn, maybe hire some very good editors next time, yes? And please let there be a ‘next time’. Your humor and imagination kept me company for the few short days it took me to read this book.
My only complaint is that the grammatical errors and strange word choices were a bit distracting at times, but that’s to be expected of a first-time author. Autumn, maybe hire some very good editors next time, yes? And please let there be a ‘next time’. Your humor and imagination kept me company for the few short days it took me to read this book.
November 17, 2023
Can't thanks autumn enough for the ARC opportunity❤️❤️❤️
Billion fucking stars for this masterpiece
I love this book sm best book I've read in 2023, it will enchant your soul i swear
And you'll fall in love with every single character of this book I'm emotionally attached to this book🥺💚
Savage assassin and grumpy king+enemies to lovers+age gap like 100+years 😭 literally the best part + knife to eachother throats
All I can say is I love this book with all my heart and I can't wait to read more books by autumn and this book is well written every character every plot everything about this book is flawless.
The MMC of this book gives me Henry Cavill from witcher vibes🤌
What are you waiting for?
Go read it already!!!
Billion fucking stars for this masterpiece
I love this book sm best book I've read in 2023, it will enchant your soul i swear
And you'll fall in love with every single character of this book I'm emotionally attached to this book🥺💚
Savage assassin and grumpy king+enemies to lovers+age gap like 100+years 😭 literally the best part + knife to eachother throats
All I can say is I love this book with all my heart and I can't wait to read more books by autumn and this book is well written every character every plot everything about this book is flawless.
The MMC of this book gives me Henry Cavill from witcher vibes🤌
What are you waiting for?
Go read it already!!!
December 1, 2023
Thank you for the E-ARC!
I’ve had this story in my list since it was on wattpad but then I saw it was a book and needed arc reviewers so I instantly signed up!
Honestly it was such a good read. I love strong stabby FMC that don’t give about who they are and she totally is. I love my MMC being a possessive guy with hints of still being understanding that she can handle herself. So Rexxan and Renna are perfect!
Hidden secrets and plot twists involved
Plus the storyline actually is long itself, spanning almost two years which I definitely enjoy when they’re long.
I’ve had this story in my list since it was on wattpad but then I saw it was a book and needed arc reviewers so I instantly signed up!
Honestly it was such a good read. I love strong stabby FMC that don’t give about who they are and she totally is. I love my MMC being a possessive guy with hints of still being understanding that she can handle herself. So Rexxan and Renna are perfect!
Hidden secrets and plot twists involved
Plus the storyline actually is long itself, spanning almost two years which I definitely enjoy when they’re long.
November 28, 2023
An assassin and a king in a enemies to lovers??? sign me UP!!!
I was able to read this book as an ARC reader, and I completely DEVOURED this book all the way to the end! This book follows Renna (The Shadow King Commander) and Rexxan (The Forest King) who meet for the first time when he shot her in the leg when he found her in the forest. (yeah, you read that right)
This book is the perfect fantasy for romance readers! The world building is very easy to follow, and the love story is just so amazing! It has a lot of very cute, and this book will have you laughing your ass off at times also because the banter between the the two main characters is next level. These two both have pasts that haunts them day and night and secrets they would rather give up their life for than for anyone to find out. The story these two have with each other and even with all the side characters, the way they come together just warmed my heart so much.
Thank you so much Autumn & Love Notes PR for letting me be an ARC reader! I cannot wait to see what you write next!!!
I was able to read this book as an ARC reader, and I completely DEVOURED this book all the way to the end! This book follows Renna (The Shadow King Commander) and Rexxan (The Forest King) who meet for the first time when he shot her in the leg when he found her in the forest. (yeah, you read that right)
This book is the perfect fantasy for romance readers! The world building is very easy to follow, and the love story is just so amazing! It has a lot of very cute, and this book will have you laughing your ass off at times also because the banter between the the two main characters is next level. These two both have pasts that haunts them day and night and secrets they would rather give up their life for than for anyone to find out. The story these two have with each other and even with all the side characters, the way they come together just warmed my heart so much.
Thank you so much Autumn & Love Notes PR for letting me be an ARC reader! I cannot wait to see what you write next!!!
April 6, 2024
OH MY GOD.
I was kicking my feet for 50% of the book and crying the other half of the time. I LOVED THIS BOOK its a perfect mix or romance with magical world and witches (there's a big age gap if that bothers you but they're immortal, so...) and really interesting world building THROUGHT the book not just AT THE BEGGINING like most authors do. The female main character has SUCH an interesting backstory, tbh all the characters do and most story get discovered so they don't keep you waiting for the next book. Keep in mind this is a DEBUT book. I'm genuinly so impressed. Autumn Woods, you are a GENIOUS
I was kicking my feet for 50% of the book and crying the other half of the time. I LOVED THIS BOOK its a perfect mix or romance with magical world and witches (there's a big age gap if that bothers you but they're immortal, so...) and really interesting world building THROUGHT the book not just AT THE BEGGINING like most authors do. The female main character has SUCH an interesting backstory, tbh all the characters do and most story get discovered so they don't keep you waiting for the next book. Keep in mind this is a DEBUT book. I'm genuinly so impressed. Autumn Woods, you are a GENIOUS
February 5, 2024
4.5 stars rounded up!
I really enjoyed Evergreen and thought that it was a great book for romance readers looking to dip their toes into fantasy. The worldbuilding wasn’t super heavy and there was a good amount of romance as well as action. I loved the characters and am super excited for the next book!
I really enjoyed Evergreen and thought that it was a great book for romance readers looking to dip their toes into fantasy. The worldbuilding wasn’t super heavy and there was a good amount of romance as well as action. I loved the characters and am super excited for the next book!
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