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Mistaken Magic
Once upon a time, I was a typical foster kid - overlooked, bounced around, and just waiting until I was old enough to get out. Some girls in my situation might dream of being a secret fairy princess, but not me. I simply wanted a chance.
It came by accident when a bird flew into my latest home. No big deal, right? Except that was all it took to get noticed. Now I'm heading to Silver Oaks Institute, an elite private college with very specific acceptance criteria. My caseworker got me an interview on a technicality - and when they say elite, they mean it.
See, this is a school for fae and half fae refugees. Just one little problem with I'm human - completely, totally, and without a doubt. There's not a drop of magic or fae blood in me, just a few coincidences that keep happening around me.
I somehow have to navigate the rules of the fae, too many arrogant people, a suite-mate who's so pretty she has to be using a glamour - and now that bird is back. Yet in a school filled with secrets and magic, how was I to know being normal might make me the most interesting thing here?
Interesting enough that this is starting to feel like a fairytale.
I'm not the princess, though. I'm going to be the knight in shining armor.
** A.H. Hadley is the fantasy persona of the international best selling author Auryn Hadley.
It came by accident when a bird flew into my latest home. No big deal, right? Except that was all it took to get noticed. Now I'm heading to Silver Oaks Institute, an elite private college with very specific acceptance criteria. My caseworker got me an interview on a technicality - and when they say elite, they mean it.
See, this is a school for fae and half fae refugees. Just one little problem with I'm human - completely, totally, and without a doubt. There's not a drop of magic or fae blood in me, just a few coincidences that keep happening around me.
I somehow have to navigate the rules of the fae, too many arrogant people, a suite-mate who's so pretty she has to be using a glamour - and now that bird is back. Yet in a school filled with secrets and magic, how was I to know being normal might make me the most interesting thing here?
Interesting enough that this is starting to feel like a fairytale.
I'm not the princess, though. I'm going to be the knight in shining armor.
** A.H. Hadley is the fantasy persona of the international best selling author Auryn Hadley.
422 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 5, 2024
693 people are currently reading
550 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
May 5, 2024
2.75 ⭐️ slow to start with a cliche foster kid backstory this felt very young YA. It gets a bit better once you get through that. fantasy academy
notes:
-Cute FF friendship romance but lots of instalove going on there and in other relationships (obsession in a day of meeting) which was puzzling as there was no spice in this. Should be time to let things develop.
-fun pet familiar
-a little strange to have brother and sister in same poly group
-parts felt a bit like after school special/ polygamy propaganda. (cutesey convos like” If I love them I want them to experience love with everyone they can” etc etc)
—adoption of almost adult (17 yr old) and the parent kept saying “I’m going to be a dad” and other really dramatic OTT stuff even though they were all ready guardians it was a bit strange.
-they kept talking about how ‘interesting ‘ she was despite being human. she was painfully below average with no interests or activities aside from reading ya fantasy books, nothing witty to say, and her whole identity and life experience was being a poor foster kid. she started to get some backbone in how she spoke towards the end but that was it.
-dramatic OW behavior and slut shaming of her by MMC when she has been a sex partner.
-overall didn’t feel like AH work, could’ve been a bit tighter in terms of plot etc but if you’re in the mood for this kind of thing might be worth a try
notes:
-Cute FF friendship romance but lots of instalove going on there and in other relationships (obsession in a day of meeting) which was puzzling as there was no spice in this. Should be time to let things develop.
-fun pet familiar
-a little strange to have brother and sister in same poly group
-parts felt a bit like after school special/ polygamy propaganda. (cutesey convos like” If I love them I want them to experience love with everyone they can” etc etc)
—adoption of almost adult (17 yr old) and the parent kept saying “I’m going to be a dad” and other really dramatic OTT stuff even though they were all ready guardians it was a bit strange.
-they kept talking about how ‘interesting ‘ she was despite being human. she was painfully below average with no interests or activities aside from reading ya fantasy books, nothing witty to say, and her whole identity and life experience was being a poor foster kid. she started to get some backbone in how she spoke towards the end but that was it.
-dramatic OW behavior and slut shaming of her by MMC when she has been a sex partner.
-overall didn’t feel like AH work, could’ve been a bit tighter in terms of plot etc but if you’re in the mood for this kind of thing might be worth a try
April 5, 2024
Oh my sugar sweet goodness! You are looking for magic, fae and found family vibes, but make it the sweetest thing you've read this year? You've found the book.
I think this series will become one of my most favorite comfort reads of all time.
A.H. Hadley's world building in this small town urban fantasy setting is as intricate as ever and I massively enjoyed looking for little clues, hints and fae lies to figure out why the FMC is *special* and intrigues the fae in this story. It also features my favorite animal sidekick ever: Jack the crow.
The book is set into a somewhat highschool-college-academy setting with the main characters being about 17 years old. I don't often read books with characters in that age group for various reasons, but this book just gives such a sweet feeling and the romance side plots are light and age-appropriate.
It's probably one of Hadley's own magic skills: she makes me be ok with reading things that I don't usually read and she twists tropes in a way that they feel fresh again, even if they don't sound like it in a summary.
This book has some themes of bullying from outside of the friend/love-group, but it does not read as a bully trope.
There is also, among others, some sapphic romance in this, but I think even to readers who don't usually read that, it will read as relatable.
This is not as low-stakes as some of the cozy fantasy books like Legends and Lattes that have become popular in the last two years, but it still absolutely fits into the warm embrace feeling that the genre provides.
This book was provided to me as an ARC as part of the author's Patreon, which means I did pay for it.
I think this series will become one of my most favorite comfort reads of all time.
A.H. Hadley's world building in this small town urban fantasy setting is as intricate as ever and I massively enjoyed looking for little clues, hints and fae lies to figure out why the FMC is *special* and intrigues the fae in this story. It also features my favorite animal sidekick ever: Jack the crow.
The book is set into a somewhat highschool-college-academy setting with the main characters being about 17 years old. I don't often read books with characters in that age group for various reasons, but this book just gives such a sweet feeling and the romance side plots are light and age-appropriate.
It's probably one of Hadley's own magic skills: she makes me be ok with reading things that I don't usually read and she twists tropes in a way that they feel fresh again, even if they don't sound like it in a summary.
This book has some themes of bullying from outside of the friend/love-group, but it does not read as a bully trope.
There is also, among others, some sapphic romance in this, but I think even to readers who don't usually read that, it will read as relatable.
This is not as low-stakes as some of the cozy fantasy books like Legends and Lattes that have become popular in the last two years, but it still absolutely fits into the warm embrace feeling that the genre provides.
This book was provided to me as an ARC as part of the author's Patreon, which means I did pay for it.
September 8, 2024
Wonderous
I wasn’t sure in the beginning if I would like this or not. The book has a very high rating on Goodreads. I tried it out and it’s great. I really enjoyed it and will read the next one when it comes out.
I wasn’t sure in the beginning if I would like this or not. The book has a very high rating on Goodreads. I tried it out and it’s great. I really enjoyed it and will read the next one when it comes out.
May 31, 2024
3.75⭐️
Rtc
Rtc
August 3, 2024
This was a rollercoaster of a book, with some fun twists and turns along the way! As ever with this Author, you get hooked so fast, and before you are ready for it the book has ended and you need the next!
This is the first of this Pen Name, but not the first of the Author by far yet as someone who has loved everything that she had written for how very different the worlds and characters are, this story continues a few of the themes I love in her writing.
The central Character may be learning, and may be new to their situation, but that is far from the same as being weak. The main character is imperfect, but only in that they feel so REAL. This isn’t a typical hero who gets everything right or just KNOWS what to do, instead she is learning about who she is and what she needs to do, and I adore that!
Enter Jack. Now, I don’t want to say a lot here because, spoilers. But this Character has replaced others as my favourite! I love love love Jack, and I can’t wait to see him again in book 2! I need a Jack in my life. (And before you jump to a romantic partner here, I will just say you’re wrong, he’s much cooler!)
The world building as ever from this writer is brilliant. We learn more as we go through the book, just as the MC does. We don’t get an influx of information that leaves us trying to figure out a huge world dynamic, instead this is woven seamlessly into the story in a way that has you feeling like you have stepped into the world and are living it. Despite the world being complex, and there being twists on traditional story ideas, there is so much originality here!
I adore reading about the Fae, but I love more when somebody puts their own spin on it, and that is exactly what the Author has done here. We are given enough information that we know what is going on, we understand the wide range of characters that are gradually introduced with all their individuality and complexities, but it is clear there is still much we need to discover! Once again, this Author has created a story which you can feel is going to move in ways you don’t expect, and there are hints along the way as to what may be coming, but from previous experience… I suspect we don’t know the half of it! And I can’t wait to see where this world takes me next!!
The story does contain FF, and often this is not handled well, but what I love about this is that it is a surprise to the people involved, and they aren’t instantly comfortable. There is questioning of what it means, trying to find self image again, and the scenes with the Characters involved are sweet. This is NOT about an FF kink and throwing in sex scenes for effect, instead this element is about character building, both emotionally and mentally, and the mental struggle that comes alongside. The Characters involved are figuring it out, and it doesn’t just become the perfect relationship, instead the characters build, discuss, and figure things out, and this element of relationship building is part of where the Author truly shines. The Characters feel so REAL, because they struggle, they question, they get things wrong and get confused, and it takes them times to work it out, there is no quick fix or instant acceptance.
Amazing first instalment in a new venture, I’m excited to see what is next!
This is the first of this Pen Name, but not the first of the Author by far yet as someone who has loved everything that she had written for how very different the worlds and characters are, this story continues a few of the themes I love in her writing.
The central Character may be learning, and may be new to their situation, but that is far from the same as being weak. The main character is imperfect, but only in that they feel so REAL. This isn’t a typical hero who gets everything right or just KNOWS what to do, instead she is learning about who she is and what she needs to do, and I adore that!
Enter Jack. Now, I don’t want to say a lot here because, spoilers. But this Character has replaced others as my favourite! I love love love Jack, and I can’t wait to see him again in book 2! I need a Jack in my life. (And before you jump to a romantic partner here, I will just say you’re wrong, he’s much cooler!)
The world building as ever from this writer is brilliant. We learn more as we go through the book, just as the MC does. We don’t get an influx of information that leaves us trying to figure out a huge world dynamic, instead this is woven seamlessly into the story in a way that has you feeling like you have stepped into the world and are living it. Despite the world being complex, and there being twists on traditional story ideas, there is so much originality here!
I adore reading about the Fae, but I love more when somebody puts their own spin on it, and that is exactly what the Author has done here. We are given enough information that we know what is going on, we understand the wide range of characters that are gradually introduced with all their individuality and complexities, but it is clear there is still much we need to discover! Once again, this Author has created a story which you can feel is going to move in ways you don’t expect, and there are hints along the way as to what may be coming, but from previous experience… I suspect we don’t know the half of it! And I can’t wait to see where this world takes me next!!
The story does contain FF, and often this is not handled well, but what I love about this is that it is a surprise to the people involved, and they aren’t instantly comfortable. There is questioning of what it means, trying to find self image again, and the scenes with the Characters involved are sweet. This is NOT about an FF kink and throwing in sex scenes for effect, instead this element is about character building, both emotionally and mentally, and the mental struggle that comes alongside. The Characters involved are figuring it out, and it doesn’t just become the perfect relationship, instead the characters build, discuss, and figure things out, and this element of relationship building is part of where the Author truly shines. The Characters feel so REAL, because they struggle, they question, they get things wrong and get confused, and it takes them times to work it out, there is no quick fix or instant acceptance.
Amazing first instalment in a new venture, I’m excited to see what is next!
August 31, 2024
Not what I expected
So, this was not what I was expecting...but I love it! I'm not going to lie, I thought it was confusing at first, slow even. But I needed to see the direction it was going to go. In the end, knowing there's more to the story was helpful! I can't wait to read what comes next!!
So, this was not what I was expecting...but I love it! I'm not going to lie, I thought it was confusing at first, slow even. But I needed to see the direction it was going to go. In the end, knowing there's more to the story was helpful! I can't wait to read what comes next!!
April 14, 2024
Loved the story
While I loved the story, human, Fae, and a talking crow .... There was way too much dialogue. I know it might be me and that I've read every book between Hadley, Cox, Cole and the need to explain being LGBTQ and having multiple lovers. I get tired of the repetition of trying to accept and figure it out with sooooo much dialogue. I just want the story to move on without all the dialogue fluff. Even though I love the authors imagination coming to life in a book I feel like I need to quit reading the same angst in ever series. It was a fun story and I enjoyed the world created.
While I loved the story, human, Fae, and a talking crow .... There was way too much dialogue. I know it might be me and that I've read every book between Hadley, Cox, Cole and the need to explain being LGBTQ and having multiple lovers. I get tired of the repetition of trying to accept and figure it out with sooooo much dialogue. I just want the story to move on without all the dialogue fluff. Even though I love the authors imagination coming to life in a book I feel like I need to quit reading the same angst in ever series. It was a fun story and I enjoyed the world created.
July 21, 2024
Potential
*Spoilers
This story started off interesting. But then somewhere along the way, the author decided to repeat the same thing over and over throughout. Rain had the same conversation with Keir about Aspen at least 3 times then again with Liam and Bracken. I almost returned this book several times. Also, while I don’t have anything against F/F stories, it’s not what I’m interested in. Would have been nice going in knowing this was going to be the theme of the story. I am giving this 3 stars as I think the author could clean things up a bit and have a good story. I don’t think I’ll be reading the next one, though.
*Spoilers
This story started off interesting. But then somewhere along the way, the author decided to repeat the same thing over and over throughout. Rain had the same conversation with Keir about Aspen at least 3 times then again with Liam and Bracken. I almost returned this book several times. Also, while I don’t have anything against F/F stories, it’s not what I’m interested in. Would have been nice going in knowing this was going to be the theme of the story. I am giving this 3 stars as I think the author could clean things up a bit and have a good story. I don’t think I’ll be reading the next one, though.
September 17, 2024
dnf
The book looked like it was something I really would enjoy. Unfortunately although it started well I found it really quite slow. I do enjoy a RH but F/F is not my sort of thing in a book and think the blurb could have given an indication. I gave up on the book when the MF character spent many conversations freaking out about kissing a girl. It was so I like girls etc. It became quite tedious.
The book looked like it was something I really would enjoy. Unfortunately although it started well I found it really quite slow. I do enjoy a RH but F/F is not my sort of thing in a book and think the blurb could have given an indication. I gave up on the book when the MF character spent many conversations freaking out about kissing a girl. It was so I like girls etc. It became quite tedious.
September 17, 2024
Absolutely amazing!
November 26, 2024
It happened like magic
What did? Auryn Hadley wrote another brilliant masterpiece!
Lorraine is a foster kid just trying to survive the foster system. When she was young her mother shot and killed Lorraine’s father, he was an abusive man and Lorraine’s mother escaped him the only way she could.
That one act of survival put Lorraine into the system and her mother into prison. From then onwards Lorraine has been bounced around from one home to the next. Desperate to find somewhere to belong and make her own life she knows that the only person she can rely on will be herself. Arriving at the Sparks home is her last chance before a group home. An incident with a crow flying into the house has her new foster parents coming unhinged. They were strict beyond belief but wanted her gone because she got the bird out of the house? Her caseworker is called, coincidentally he’s Mr Sparks’ brother he offers her a chance to go to the private school nearby. It’s different he’d said, it covers a wide age range, it would let her study for college as well as finishing high school but it is different. She’s just about to find out how a normal human girl can fit in a a school for fae and faelings (mixed blood). No pressure right?
What did? Auryn Hadley wrote another brilliant masterpiece!
Lorraine is a foster kid just trying to survive the foster system. When she was young her mother shot and killed Lorraine’s father, he was an abusive man and Lorraine’s mother escaped him the only way she could.
That one act of survival put Lorraine into the system and her mother into prison. From then onwards Lorraine has been bounced around from one home to the next. Desperate to find somewhere to belong and make her own life she knows that the only person she can rely on will be herself. Arriving at the Sparks home is her last chance before a group home. An incident with a crow flying into the house has her new foster parents coming unhinged. They were strict beyond belief but wanted her gone because she got the bird out of the house? Her caseworker is called, coincidentally he’s Mr Sparks’ brother he offers her a chance to go to the private school nearby. It’s different he’d said, it covers a wide age range, it would let her study for college as well as finishing high school but it is different. She’s just about to find out how a normal human girl can fit in a a school for fae and faelings (mixed blood). No pressure right?
April 15, 2024
Oh am I completely obsessed with this new world! I’ve been dying for this story since Auryn first teased it years ago and it did not disappoint in a single way!! I cannot wait for Pixie Problems. I’ll say it again and again but Auryn does unique stories and next level world building and character crafting like no other. Her work is way too underrated. Every series is amazing and so fresh.
I’m loving all we discover about the Fae and Faerie in this book and I’m super interested to see what more we will uncover, and what secrets certain characters are holding. The Morrigan aspect omg, I can’t wait. Jack is so cool. This is Auryn’s first more YA or Academy age book I believe and I loved the setting. Honestly I wish I was a student at Silver Oak, the classes seem so cool. And the characters !!! This found family is already so adorable, Liam & Bracken with Rain are perfect, and I love the whole court. Each character is so fascinating in their own way and it’s going to be great seeing everyone slowly come together. I need more Hawke scenes because boy am I intrigued. I love Aspen, Kier & Torian, and I’m excited to see more of Wilder in the next books.
I’m loving all we discover about the Fae and Faerie in this book and I’m super interested to see what more we will uncover, and what secrets certain characters are holding. The Morrigan aspect omg, I can’t wait. Jack is so cool. This is Auryn’s first more YA or Academy age book I believe and I loved the setting. Honestly I wish I was a student at Silver Oak, the classes seem so cool. And the characters !!! This found family is already so adorable, Liam & Bracken with Rain are perfect, and I love the whole court. Each character is so fascinating in their own way and it’s going to be great seeing everyone slowly come together. I need more Hawke scenes because boy am I intrigued. I love Aspen, Kier & Torian, and I’m excited to see more of Wilder in the next books.
July 2, 2025
This is a story about a foster child about to age out of the system and getting introduced to the world of fae and magic despite. being totally ordinary herself.
I like that the book isnt the typical magical academy where the FMC discovers she is the long lost princess of some forgotten magical realm. Rain is special because she is totally human and doesnt pretend to be anything different. She accepts the fae and their strange ways and learns to deal with all the change. she throws herself into their way of life and finds that she kind of thrives. She makes her own found family and it is beautiful to read.
I love Jack. He is a crow who looks out for Rain and Aspen and provides some much needed comedic relief at times. He chose Rain and we dont even really know why yet.
My one criticism of this book is that it got a little too caught up in the romantic relationships and didnt just let the story unfold. Rain spent the latter half of the book psycho analysing all her romantic interests and what it means which slowed down the pacing a bit.
Really interested to see how this story unfolds
I like that the book isnt the typical magical academy where the FMC discovers she is the long lost princess of some forgotten magical realm. Rain is special because she is totally human and doesnt pretend to be anything different. She accepts the fae and their strange ways and learns to deal with all the change. she throws herself into their way of life and finds that she kind of thrives. She makes her own found family and it is beautiful to read.
I love Jack. He is a crow who looks out for Rain and Aspen and provides some much needed comedic relief at times. He chose Rain and we dont even really know why yet.
My one criticism of this book is that it got a little too caught up in the romantic relationships and didnt just let the story unfold. Rain spent the latter half of the book psycho analysing all her romantic interests and what it means which slowed down the pacing a bit.
Really interested to see how this story unfolds
April 8, 2024
Hadley at her best
I have read many of Auryn (AH) Hadley’s books/series. This is starting to look like one of her best. It’s progressing slowly, showing the lonely, rejected Lorraine develop into a confused human in the midst of powerful magical beings, into a powerhouse of righteous indignation. Rain has all the angst of a typical teenager, but her abiding hatred of bullies puts her in the forefront of a battle against the worst of what she hates.
Hadley often writes her strong female characters into a reverse harem. This story may be going in that direction, though it’s too early to tell. So far, though, all the strong male characters are good men that will only enhance Rain’s now-manifest powers. As Rain continues to learn and grow, her ultimate purpose will become clearer. I believe she will then need all the help she can get.
Hadley has such a talent for character development and intricate plots. This I why I love everything she writes. It will be stressing to wait for each new book in this series. But I look forward to each and every one!
I have read many of Auryn (AH) Hadley’s books/series. This is starting to look like one of her best. It’s progressing slowly, showing the lonely, rejected Lorraine develop into a confused human in the midst of powerful magical beings, into a powerhouse of righteous indignation. Rain has all the angst of a typical teenager, but her abiding hatred of bullies puts her in the forefront of a battle against the worst of what she hates.
Hadley often writes her strong female characters into a reverse harem. This story may be going in that direction, though it’s too early to tell. So far, though, all the strong male characters are good men that will only enhance Rain’s now-manifest powers. As Rain continues to learn and grow, her ultimate purpose will become clearer. I believe she will then need all the help she can get.
Hadley has such a talent for character development and intricate plots. This I why I love everything she writes. It will be stressing to wait for each new book in this series. But I look forward to each and every one!
September 30, 2024
This book was exciting.
I loved the magic and brief history we got. I love the idea of a hidden magical community and school. I like Lorraine, she seems strong without that sharp edge most foster kids have.
It does get a little boring how much she speaks on her history as a foster kid. She always makes a point to say she doesnt expect much because as a foster kid she's never really had anything or anyone to rely on. Then she makes a point to mention she never was physically or sexually abused. And that's great, by why repeat it so much? It's just a bit odd.
I am NOT a fan of F/F, and if I knew this book included it, I would have skipped it. However, I will admit that it was done very well. Rain (formally Lorraine), has always dated and been attracted to guys. But she is attracted to Aspen, and decides to explore that. It was done very slowly and organically which made it believable and realistic for me.
Looking forward to more action and answers in book 2.
I loved the magic and brief history we got. I love the idea of a hidden magical community and school. I like Lorraine, she seems strong without that sharp edge most foster kids have.
It does get a little boring how much she speaks on her history as a foster kid. She always makes a point to say she doesnt expect much because as a foster kid she's never really had anything or anyone to rely on. Then she makes a point to mention she never was physically or sexually abused. And that's great, by why repeat it so much? It's just a bit odd.
I am NOT a fan of F/F, and if I knew this book included it, I would have skipped it. However, I will admit that it was done very well. Rain (formally Lorraine), has always dated and been attracted to guys. But she is attracted to Aspen, and decides to explore that. It was done very slowly and organically which made it believable and realistic for me.
Looking forward to more action and answers in book 2.
January 19, 2025
I enjoyed the pacing—it kept me engaged until the ending tripped over itself with a weird insta-love twist. Like, nahhh. Add to that the special snowflake trope, and yeah, the wrap-up didn’t exactly leave me convinced.
Being YA, there’s plenty of teen angst, some casual misogyny, and a heavy emphasis on the Fae’s “monogamy is for mortals” lifestyle. Seriously, the book wouldn’t let us—or the heroine—forget it. To be clear, this is NOT Reverse Harem; It’s a poly romance (theres FF, MF, and probably more, zero smut, clean read), so adjust expectations accordingly.
The heroine herself was urprisingly self-aware but not overly preachy or shy, which honestly kept me reading. The slower pacing worked for me, but the overall lack of intensity, impact, and even a proper antagonist made it feel a little underwhelming. It’s not a groundbreaking story, but it’s semi-decent if you’re looking to pass the time. I might check out the next one just to see where it goes.
Being YA, there’s plenty of teen angst, some casual misogyny, and a heavy emphasis on the Fae’s “monogamy is for mortals” lifestyle. Seriously, the book wouldn’t let us—or the heroine—forget it. To be clear, this is NOT Reverse Harem; It’s a poly romance (theres FF, MF, and probably more, zero smut, clean read), so adjust expectations accordingly.
The heroine herself was urprisingly self-aware but not overly preachy or shy, which honestly kept me reading. The slower pacing worked for me, but the overall lack of intensity, impact, and even a proper antagonist made it feel a little underwhelming. It’s not a groundbreaking story, but it’s semi-decent if you’re looking to pass the time. I might check out the next one just to see where it goes.
January 21, 2025
Fairies, foster homes and the start of a story full of potential.
This surprised me. I liked it alot more than I feel i"should" it all seems so generic of a "magical revers harem school" when i got it from kindel But for some reson this felt more grounded and real than many of those books. The protagonist i at first thought was just a basic "idk why everything happens to me " fem lead but i kept feeling more from her psychology speeking than other romance leads. The lgbt+ representation felt right in a story actually dealing with fairies and college. Some parts weren't fleshed out but it's probably that way because it's intentionally a "book1" situation where it's more like episode 1 of an ongoing show than a finished story each book. Overall held my interest well even with the slow burn (which i appreciated actually) and I am looking forwards to reading more about the whole Court and getting to know them.
This surprised me. I liked it alot more than I feel i"should" it all seems so generic of a "magical revers harem school" when i got it from kindel But for some reson this felt more grounded and real than many of those books. The protagonist i at first thought was just a basic "idk why everything happens to me " fem lead but i kept feeling more from her psychology speeking than other romance leads. The lgbt+ representation felt right in a story actually dealing with fairies and college. Some parts weren't fleshed out but it's probably that way because it's intentionally a "book1" situation where it's more like episode 1 of an ongoing show than a finished story each book. Overall held my interest well even with the slow burn (which i appreciated actually) and I am looking forwards to reading more about the whole Court and getting to know them.
May 12, 2024
Great book
I enjoyed this book, I enjoyed the character dynamics, of Rain finding herself at the school. There was chapters upon chapters of her second guessing herself that could have been taken out, as a reader we understood her hesitation with a new relationship with Aspen, girl and girl, nothing but kissing happened but still, the whole back and forth getting opinions from multiple ppl she couldn’t accept she wasn’t doing anything wrong. We wouldn’t have missed all those chapters if they weren’t there. The story was slow to unfold, lots of bullying but the end is where it really opened up. The way that lead Hunter from the wild hunt how he invited her to join them to ride felt different which no one really talked about. I think it led to her being the Morrigan. Jack was a favourite of mine. I would be interested in reading the 2nd book.
I enjoyed this book, I enjoyed the character dynamics, of Rain finding herself at the school. There was chapters upon chapters of her second guessing herself that could have been taken out, as a reader we understood her hesitation with a new relationship with Aspen, girl and girl, nothing but kissing happened but still, the whole back and forth getting opinions from multiple ppl she couldn’t accept she wasn’t doing anything wrong. We wouldn’t have missed all those chapters if they weren’t there. The story was slow to unfold, lots of bullying but the end is where it really opened up. The way that lead Hunter from the wild hunt how he invited her to join them to ride felt different which no one really talked about. I think it led to her being the Morrigan. Jack was a favourite of mine. I would be interested in reading the 2nd book.
July 16, 2024
why do I do this to myself?
I know Hadley’s book is going to be good. I know I will read it too quickly because I won’t be able to put it down. And now, again, I am stuck waiting for the next book. Heartbreaking. That’s what it is. I should know better by now to start one of her series before it’s finished. I will have to go re-re-reread one of her other series or a few of the others while I wait for book 2 to come out. It’s like that marshmallow test for little kids. Put the marshmallow in front of them and tell them they can have it now, or, if they wait until the adult comes back into the room, they can have 2 marshmallows. I didn’t wait. I consumed this book. And now it will live in my heart and head, impatiently waiting for the rest of Rain’s story. At least I know there will be something amazing to look forward to.
I know Hadley’s book is going to be good. I know I will read it too quickly because I won’t be able to put it down. And now, again, I am stuck waiting for the next book. Heartbreaking. That’s what it is. I should know better by now to start one of her series before it’s finished. I will have to go re-re-reread one of her other series or a few of the others while I wait for book 2 to come out. It’s like that marshmallow test for little kids. Put the marshmallow in front of them and tell them they can have it now, or, if they wait until the adult comes back into the room, they can have 2 marshmallows. I didn’t wait. I consumed this book. And now it will live in my heart and head, impatiently waiting for the rest of Rain’s story. At least I know there will be something amazing to look forward to.
April 5, 2024
Fantastic start to a new series
This is a new series by A H Hadley, a pen name for Auryn Hadley and it’s an amazing start!
This is such a sweet and moving story that grabbed me from the start. I laughed and cried and just fell for all the characters.
Lorraine (Rain) drew me in immediately. I loved her and found myself entranced by her story.
There is a fantastic found family created her and all of the people she encounters are so interesting.
The school is so interesting too and I love Rain’s relationship with Aspen it’s so sweet and naturally written.
This is such a great start to a series. I highly recommend it and I am so excited to see where it goes and can’t wait for the next book.
This is a new series by A H Hadley, a pen name for Auryn Hadley and it’s an amazing start!
This is such a sweet and moving story that grabbed me from the start. I laughed and cried and just fell for all the characters.
Lorraine (Rain) drew me in immediately. I loved her and found myself entranced by her story.
There is a fantastic found family created her and all of the people she encounters are so interesting.
The school is so interesting too and I love Rain’s relationship with Aspen it’s so sweet and naturally written.
This is such a great start to a series. I highly recommend it and I am so excited to see where it goes and can’t wait for the next book.
May 7, 2024
Great idea, but…
The concept was interesting. But it easily could have cut out 100+ pages of annoying dialog. Internal dialog with the FMC and dialog with the characters. You’d read 3 pages of dialog and then she’d go to another character and recite the same 3 pages of dialogue. It wasn’t necessary and could have been summarized or referenced to. The FMC also repeated the same questions over and over and OVER again. It felt very stale for about 150-200 pages. It almost became a DNF because of that but I wanted to see if my suspicions were right. Finally the book picked up steam the last 50 pages or so. Maybe I’m not the intended demographic for this book. Perhaps a teenager would respond differently.
The concept was interesting. But it easily could have cut out 100+ pages of annoying dialog. Internal dialog with the FMC and dialog with the characters. You’d read 3 pages of dialog and then she’d go to another character and recite the same 3 pages of dialogue. It wasn’t necessary and could have been summarized or referenced to. The FMC also repeated the same questions over and over and OVER again. It felt very stale for about 150-200 pages. It almost became a DNF because of that but I wanted to see if my suspicions were right. Finally the book picked up steam the last 50 pages or so. Maybe I’m not the intended demographic for this book. Perhaps a teenager would respond differently.
July 13, 2024
100% book slump 100% needed
Interesting and unique take on the Fae and their reasons for being on earth and their interactions with humans.
I like that they kept the fae characters a bit "other" in their interactions as well.
Book is well written, world building is good. MCs are interesting and layered and dynamic.
I normally stay away from high school age RHs and on the rare occasion where I do read one it's knowing that the characters will age up and interactions with progress with that. I still have a tendency to skip over the smexy scenes because they make me feel gross when the characters start young. I will probably end up doing the same in this series. But with this first everthing was very tame and very sweet.
Interesting and unique take on the Fae and their reasons for being on earth and their interactions with humans.
I like that they kept the fae characters a bit "other" in their interactions as well.
Book is well written, world building is good. MCs are interesting and layered and dynamic.
I normally stay away from high school age RHs and on the rare occasion where I do read one it's knowing that the characters will age up and interactions with progress with that. I still have a tendency to skip over the smexy scenes because they make me feel gross when the characters start young. I will probably end up doing the same in this series. But with this first everthing was very tame and very sweet.
August 30, 2024
I like seriously love this book. The emotional depth in this book is so lovely, how understanding and emotionally intelligent the characters are with each other is beautiful. This book really emphasizes finding your own family and valuing those people that you recognize as your own or similar as you. The FMC is really allowed to explore her sexuality and herself within, but also how she fits into this different world and which she’s not sure if she belongs. There are so many elements within this that are handled stunningly like the complexity of the characters, the hierarchy within the Academy, but also within the Society and general. Everything weaves together and you’re never really lost. I cannot wait for the next book!
April 21, 2025
3.75
Not everything adds up plot wise, but thus far an enjoyable read. One of the things that bothers me is that I will say I only mildly figured out the twist
Not everything adds up plot wise, but thus far an enjoyable read. One of the things that bothers me is that I will say I only mildly figured out the twist
April 16, 2024
unexpected
This author forever leaves me in awe.
Don’t get me wrong- I was prepared for this to be an exception, and for me not to enjoy this plot line but now I am in a book hangover desperately needing the next book!
Loved the main character’s strength- she’s not a pushover! She’s the weakest link without magic but has some of the strongest fortitude and depth! Her flaws aren’t all consuming and are very real and natural! They don’t grate but present themselves subtly so that it’s not irritating!
Other characters are fantastic in their complexity and difference- really enjoying it and can’t wait for more!!
This author forever leaves me in awe.
Don’t get me wrong- I was prepared for this to be an exception, and for me not to enjoy this plot line but now I am in a book hangover desperately needing the next book!
Loved the main character’s strength- she’s not a pushover! She’s the weakest link without magic but has some of the strongest fortitude and depth! Her flaws aren’t all consuming and are very real and natural! They don’t grate but present themselves subtly so that it’s not irritating!
Other characters are fantastic in their complexity and difference- really enjoying it and can’t wait for more!!
April 7, 2024
Outstanding
Auryn has always been an exceptional writer and this book follows that tradition.
Rain is extraordinarily ordinary. A foster child bounce from home to home like a pinball in a machine. Now she's facing Mr amd Mrs Sparks, a zealous couple with their own tragic pasts, and no true understanding of what children need.
They're also her last hope before being institutionalised in a system without hope.
However with interference from a crow named Jack, and Mr Spark's brother Liam, Rain may just find exactly where she belongs.
Auryn has always been an exceptional writer and this book follows that tradition.
Rain is extraordinarily ordinary. A foster child bounce from home to home like a pinball in a machine. Now she's facing Mr amd Mrs Sparks, a zealous couple with their own tragic pasts, and no true understanding of what children need.
They're also her last hope before being institutionalised in a system without hope.
However with interference from a crow named Jack, and Mr Spark's brother Liam, Rain may just find exactly where she belongs.
April 11, 2024
New Comfort Read
Rain is a foster kid who gets lucky enough to end up at a school for the select few. She has no idea what few selection criteria is when she accepts the place. She knows Aspen is deferred to by the people running the school, but not the why. Its only safe she is jobs into her dorm room that she learns the fae are real!
This story is overall a sweet exploration of finding herself, and tasting what love and acceptance feel like. It is slow burn, no spice in no one, but three is fumbling why Hugh FF and MF.
Rain is a foster kid who gets lucky enough to end up at a school for the select few. She has no idea what few selection criteria is when she accepts the place. She knows Aspen is deferred to by the people running the school, but not the why. Its only safe she is jobs into her dorm room that she learns the fae are real!
This story is overall a sweet exploration of finding herself, and tasting what love and acceptance feel like. It is slow burn, no spice in no one, but three is fumbling why Hugh FF and MF.
May 30, 2024
teenage drama
You can always count on this author to have amazing world building and to be a lgbtqia+ ally. Overall, the book was okay. It kept me engaged for the most part but I was somewhat bored reading it. Something is clearly amiss but a lot of the book is high school drama with a little magic mixed in. It got interesting around 75%. This book definitely felt like a builder for the rest of the series. Adding a female to this potential harem is fun.
Liam being short for William is odd.
You can always count on this author to have amazing world building and to be a lgbtqia+ ally. Overall, the book was okay. It kept me engaged for the most part but I was somewhat bored reading it. Something is clearly amiss but a lot of the book is high school drama with a little magic mixed in. It got interesting around 75%. This book definitely felt like a builder for the rest of the series. Adding a female to this potential harem is fun.
Liam being short for William is odd.
October 19, 2024
an unexpected delight
So a human in the far work is not a new concept but the twists Ms Hadley puts on it in this novel were. Faerie being closed and fae kids being largely in the foster system? A human who is human but seems interesting to the full fae? A girl in a prime position to be bullied but unable not to stand up to bullies? Just a really fun ride and I look forward to seeing where it goes in the next book?
Tropes: academy, not like the others, bi-awakening, found family
So a human in the far work is not a new concept but the twists Ms Hadley puts on it in this novel were. Faerie being closed and fae kids being largely in the foster system? A human who is human but seems interesting to the full fae? A girl in a prime position to be bullied but unable not to stand up to bullies? Just a really fun ride and I look forward to seeing where it goes in the next book?
Tropes: academy, not like the others, bi-awakening, found family
August 9, 2025
This book hooked me in
I started reading the Accidental Fairy Tale series because it was complete. I thought the story started a little slow but it hooked me in about a quarter of the way through.
Some of the characters are a little confusing and I’m not sure how they will turn out. I really how Rain stands up for her beliefs. She’s had a rough life but is still a good, caring person. She’s a very believable character,
With the surprise ending, I’m looking forward to reading how Rain grows into her new persona and her interactions with all the court members.
I started reading the Accidental Fairy Tale series because it was complete. I thought the story started a little slow but it hooked me in about a quarter of the way through.
Some of the characters are a little confusing and I’m not sure how they will turn out. I really how Rain stands up for her beliefs. She’s had a rough life but is still a good, caring person. She’s a very believable character,
With the surprise ending, I’m looking forward to reading how Rain grows into her new persona and her interactions with all the court members.
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