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Wicked Darlings #4
A Prison of Ink and Ice
What happens when the fated mates doubt their destiny and go through the most brutal kind of marriage counseling thanks to a villain? In this Snow Queen retelling, Lir and Louisa endure a hellish experience on their way to that happy ending.
(This is a short novel in the Wicked Darlings series. It is concurrent to the events of book 2, "A Court of Hearts and Hunger," and it contains spoilers for books 1 and 2 in the series.)
As the King and Queen of the Seelie Court of Delight, Lir and Louisa travel to the prison of Griem Dorcha to hear the cases of the Unseelie Fae that Drosselmeyer freed from his mansion. But when their journey takes an unexpected turn, they are trapped in an icy stronghold and forced to play a twisted game. As the stakes rise higher, Louisa must confront her deepest doubts about her marriage and her worst fears about life in Faerie--as well as some harsh truths about herself.
(This is a short novel in the Wicked Darlings series. It is concurrent to the events of book 2, "A Court of Hearts and Hunger," and it contains spoilers for books 1 and 2 in the series.)
As the King and Queen of the Seelie Court of Delight, Lir and Louisa travel to the prison of Griem Dorcha to hear the cases of the Unseelie Fae that Drosselmeyer freed from his mansion. But when their journey takes an unexpected turn, they are trapped in an icy stronghold and forced to play a twisted game. As the stakes rise higher, Louisa must confront her deepest doubts about her marriage and her worst fears about life in Faerie--as well as some harsh truths about herself.
231 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 29, 2024
175 people are currently reading
1997 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca F. Kenney
72 books2,882 followersRebecca F. Kenney writes spicy fantasy romance about sassy, strong women and hot guys with tragic backstories... pirates, warlords, demons, Fae, and royals. Her main series are the "Wicked Darlings" series (spicy Fae retellings of the Nutcracker, Wonderland, and Oz), the "Dark Rulers" series (standalones in a shared world), and the "For the Love of the Villain" series of genderbent fairytales. Other books include a post-apocalyptic vampire romance trilogy ("The Vampires Will Save You"), a demon romance "Interior Design for Demons," a dark mermaid fantasy duet, and other spicy retellings.
Rebecca is represented by Eva Scalzo of Speilburg Literary. She lives in upstate South Carolina with her handsome blue-eyed husband and two smart, energetic kids.
For updates and information about upcoming novels, follow on Instagram @rebeccafkenneybooks, on Twitter @RebeccaFKenney1, and on TikTok @rebeccafkenney
Rebecca is represented by Eva Scalzo of Speilburg Literary. She lives in upstate South Carolina with her handsome blue-eyed husband and two smart, energetic kids.
For updates and information about upcoming novels, follow on Instagram @rebeccafkenneybooks, on Twitter @RebeccaFKenney1, and on TikTok @rebeccafkenney
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
March 2, 2024
In A Prison of Ink and Ice Kenney simultaneously delivers what is probably her most romantic book and what is probably one of her kinkiest. I ate. It. Up.
To be honest, I entered this hesitantly because Louisa was, by far, my least favorite leading character in any of the Wicked Darlings books. I felt there was never enough time for her to grow past her insufferable tendencies. Her romance with Lir was also much less fleshed out than that of Fin and Clara, making it feel like something was missing with the pairing.
Kenney really said, 'hold my beer' and gave me everything I felt Louisa and Lir needed. Though we get to see the most progress from Louisa, we also get to witness growth for Lir and it was all *chef's kiss*.
You get character growth, you get horror, you get games, you get lots of fun, sometimes surprising, smut, and you get some of the most romantic shit ever. Honestly, I need Kenney to write for the Wicked Darlings series indefinitely. It's just way too good.
To be honest, I entered this hesitantly because Louisa was, by far, my least favorite leading character in any of the Wicked Darlings books. I felt there was never enough time for her to grow past her insufferable tendencies. Her romance with Lir was also much less fleshed out than that of Fin and Clara, making it feel like something was missing with the pairing.
Kenney really said, 'hold my beer' and gave me everything I felt Louisa and Lir needed. Though we get to see the most progress from Louisa, we also get to witness growth for Lir and it was all *chef's kiss*.
You get character growth, you get horror, you get games, you get lots of fun, sometimes surprising, smut, and you get some of the most romantic shit ever. Honestly, I need Kenney to write for the Wicked Darlings series indefinitely. It's just way too good.
February 13, 2024
5⭐️4🌶️ thank you so much Rebecca Kenney for letting me beta read this for you! i am so grateful for the opportunity! i have a whole new love for Lir and Louisa after this and the strength and determination they had throughout this heart wrenching story. love and marriage is not always easy and takes a lot of work and communication but when both sides WANT it and put forth the effort to better themselves and each other, it’s absolutely worth it. communication is key 🥹 so so good! i can’t wait for everyone to read this! this will be a wonderful addition to the Wicked Darlings Series! I can’t get enough of this woman’s writing!!!
March 3, 2024
4.5
Se questa non è una consulenza matrimoniale efficiente non ho idea di che cosa possa esserlo.
Oh boy, i traumi.
Attendevo questa novella dal suo annuncio: un po’ perché smaniavo di leggere altro di questa serie e un po’ perché Lir e Louisa non mi avevano colpita quanto Fin e Clara, per cui ero curiosa di approfondire di più i loro personaggi.
Già nel primo romanzo ho amato come l’autrice spiega il legame che hanno, meno stucchevole e più logico dei mate degli altri libri del genere, ma qui si è superata. E vedere come Lir, in qualsiasi condizione e impedimento, scelga sempre e solo Louisa mi ha fatto stringere il mio cuoricino rinsecchito.
This is love!
In più ho adorato il personaggio di the Banrion.
Tutti i riferimenti al retelling de la Regina delle Nevi sono eccellenti, ma abbiamo già appurato nel corso della serie che l’autrice è capace di fare un bel mix di varie fiabe e di trasformarle in un’unica magica avventura, e qui non si è risparmiata e ci ha regalato un villain incredibile. Perché? Beh, riesci a empatizzare con lui, al punto che ogni tanto dimentichi che è la causa di tutti i mali.
Però no, alla fine della fiera non si può scusare.
Comunque la trama in sé è molto lineare, dato che si baserà su una serie di prove per mettere alla prova il legame tra Lir e Louisa. E cosa c’è di meglio del fatto che lei ha mantenuto i suoi ricordi mentre Lir viene resettato ogni giorno?
Ebbene sì, signore e signori, grazie a questo perderà la scopa che si era accasata nel suo culo.
Dopotutto non puoi avere freni se non ti ricordi di essere uno snob perfettino, no?
Ma nonostante le numerose scene spicy (contestualizzate nella storia), le parti più emozionanti riguardano a come affrontano i loro problemi di coppia. E qual è la chiave di tutto a parte essere imprigionati da una narcisista? Il dialogo! Esatto!
Certo, il finale non mi ha soddisfatta del tutto, ma nel complesso è una novella che dovete leggere obbligatoriamente se avete amato la serie. Non ve ne pentirete!
Se questa non è una consulenza matrimoniale efficiente non ho idea di che cosa possa esserlo.
Oh boy, i traumi.
Attendevo questa novella dal suo annuncio: un po’ perché smaniavo di leggere altro di questa serie e un po’ perché Lir e Louisa non mi avevano colpita quanto Fin e Clara, per cui ero curiosa di approfondire di più i loro personaggi.
Già nel primo romanzo ho amato come l’autrice spiega il legame che hanno, meno stucchevole e più logico dei mate degli altri libri del genere, ma qui si è superata. E vedere come Lir, in qualsiasi condizione e impedimento, scelga sempre e solo Louisa mi ha fatto stringere il mio cuoricino rinsecchito.
This is love!
In più ho adorato il personaggio di the Banrion.
Tutti i riferimenti al retelling de la Regina delle Nevi sono eccellenti, ma abbiamo già appurato nel corso della serie che l’autrice è capace di fare un bel mix di varie fiabe e di trasformarle in un’unica magica avventura, e qui non si è risparmiata e ci ha regalato un villain incredibile. Perché? Beh, riesci a empatizzare con lui, al punto che ogni tanto dimentichi che è la causa di tutti i mali.
Però no, alla fine della fiera non si può scusare.
Comunque la trama in sé è molto lineare, dato che si baserà su una serie di prove per mettere alla prova il legame tra Lir e Louisa. E cosa c’è di meglio del fatto che lei ha mantenuto i suoi ricordi mentre Lir viene resettato ogni giorno?
Ebbene sì, signore e signori, grazie a questo perderà la scopa che si era accasata nel suo culo.
Dopotutto non puoi avere freni se non ti ricordi di essere uno snob perfettino, no?
Ma nonostante le numerose scene spicy (contestualizzate nella storia), le parti più emozionanti riguardano a come affrontano i loro problemi di coppia. E qual è la chiave di tutto a parte essere imprigionati da una narcisista? Il dialogo! Esatto!
Certo, il finale non mi ha soddisfatta del tutto, ma nel complesso è una novella che dovete leggere obbligatoriamente se avete amato la serie. Non ve ne pentirete!
July 30, 2024
… Okay, wait. This one was actually good. I mean- the plot in this one was so deliciously cruel and unnerving. They are all dark, but this one unlocked a deep fear in me. Unfortunately you will literally have no idea what’s going on so you can’t really read it as a standalone and must trudge through the first 3.
Also, I had already read “A Hunt so Wild and Cruel” before this series and had no idea the worlds were connected. I LOVED that book and is probably my favorite of the author’s.
Also, I had already read “A Hunt so Wild and Cruel” before this series and had no idea the worlds were connected. I LOVED that book and is probably my favorite of the author’s.
March 13, 2024
I am a huge fan of Rebecca’s work and the Wicked Darlings series in particular. Unfortunately, I didn’t find A Prison of Ink & Ice to live up to the rest of the adventures in the series.
As with most of the author’s works, this story has incredible concepts and twists on tales we’ve heard before. I loved the Twins and their ink-based magic as well as the various trials and tests Louisa & Lir had to go through. I also loved that the story aims to tackle the challenges of what comes after a “happy ending” and the struggles two people face after suddenly becoming fated together. It’s not something explored much and the Wicked Darlings world of Faery never fails to be unique and intriguing at the very least.
I also enjoyed Louisa in this story and I appreciate her differences from the typical romantasy protagonist. She’s a bit messy and far from perfect but that makes her feel more human and gives her a lot of room for character development. Lir, on the other hand, comes across so bland that I couldn’t tell much difference even with his memories gone. I’m still unsure if having his POV helped or harmed the story as it doesn’t add anything to his character. The spice was also a bit off in this one due to its themes and the ending isn’t for everyone (personally I had to skim it).
As for the antagonist, the Banríon, I don’t think she was developed as much as she could have been. I was waiting for a revelation or some hint to tie her into the bigger picture but she never amounts to anything more than a bother. She’s there for the sake of Louisa & Lir more than being her own character which is a shame because this is a titled Snow Queen Retelling. The same can be said for the other side characters we meet who don’t serve any real purpose other than to fill the stage of Griem Dorcha. This wouldn’t be a huge problem (as this is a shorter story) if I felt stronger connection to Louisa & Lir.
Overall, this is a weaker link for the series as a whole and I would much recommend spending time on A Hunt So Wild & Cruel (incredible read) or even Fin & Clara’s side story before this. If you were previously obsessed with Louisa & Lir, maybe you’ll enjoy this more than I did but the story alone didn’t do it for me.
As with most of the author’s works, this story has incredible concepts and twists on tales we’ve heard before. I loved the Twins and their ink-based magic as well as the various trials and tests Louisa & Lir had to go through. I also loved that the story aims to tackle the challenges of what comes after a “happy ending” and the struggles two people face after suddenly becoming fated together. It’s not something explored much and the Wicked Darlings world of Faery never fails to be unique and intriguing at the very least.
I also enjoyed Louisa in this story and I appreciate her differences from the typical romantasy protagonist. She’s a bit messy and far from perfect but that makes her feel more human and gives her a lot of room for character development. Lir, on the other hand, comes across so bland that I couldn’t tell much difference even with his memories gone. I’m still unsure if having his POV helped or harmed the story as it doesn’t add anything to his character. The spice was also a bit off in this one due to its themes and the ending isn’t for everyone (personally I had to skim it).
As for the antagonist, the Banríon, I don’t think she was developed as much as she could have been. I was waiting for a revelation or some hint to tie her into the bigger picture but she never amounts to anything more than a bother. She’s there for the sake of Louisa & Lir more than being her own character which is a shame because this is a titled Snow Queen Retelling. The same can be said for the other side characters we meet who don’t serve any real purpose other than to fill the stage of Griem Dorcha. This wouldn’t be a huge problem (as this is a shorter story) if I felt stronger connection to Louisa & Lir.
Overall, this is a weaker link for the series as a whole and I would much recommend spending time on A Hunt So Wild & Cruel (incredible read) or even Fin & Clara’s side story before this. If you were previously obsessed with Louisa & Lir, maybe you’ll enjoy this more than I did but the story alone didn’t do it for me.
May 21, 2025
I had the absolute pleasure to beta read this novella.
It's everything we love about the Wicked Darlings series! Great balance of story and spice. I loved watching these characters grow even more.
I hadn't had much attachment to Louisa before, because I just felt like I didn't "know" her as well as Clara. I feel like I'm much more acquainted with her now, and I love her just as much as her sister 💖
There are also some themes surrounding relationships/communication that were very relatable, honest, raw.
And the spice? I'm never disappointed with a Wicked Darlings book, and this was no exception. And there's always something *new* in that department, the scenes are so varied, never stale or repetitive.
If you enjoyed A Court of Sugar and Spice, don't sleep on this one! If you don't know what A Court of Sugar and Spice is but this book sounds interesting to you, RUN to grab ACoSaS, because that's your starting point, and you won't regret it 😁
It's everything we love about the Wicked Darlings series! Great balance of story and spice. I loved watching these characters grow even more.
I hadn't had much attachment to Louisa before, because I just felt like I didn't "know" her as well as Clara. I feel like I'm much more acquainted with her now, and I love her just as much as her sister 💖
There are also some themes surrounding relationships/communication that were very relatable, honest, raw.
And the spice? I'm never disappointed with a Wicked Darlings book, and this was no exception. And there's always something *new* in that department, the scenes are so varied, never stale or repetitive.
If you enjoyed A Court of Sugar and Spice, don't sleep on this one! If you don't know what A Court of Sugar and Spice is but this book sounds interesting to you, RUN to grab ACoSaS, because that's your starting point, and you won't regret it 😁
March 22, 2024
The writing was bad but the smut was excellent so I think they cancel each other out
May 21, 2024
Cute, so glad to get a little more from Lir and Louisa. This was the perfect wrap up that continued their journey while we already saw what was going on with Fin and Clara in book two.
June 21, 2025
This was such a let down from the rest of the series. I don’t feel like this book was needed and it follows the two most annoying characters. This is 200 pages of whining.
May 25, 2025
By far my least favorite in the series. It felt rushed and like it didn’t really have closure. I loved the spell work and how Lir always found his mate. However it all just felt bleh.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 1, 2024
This was the same as the previous two in this series. Such high expectations and such a large letdown. No one's fault but my own here. I'm just a huge sucker for reimaginings, especially the ones that are being redone in this series. I just keep hoping I'm going to enjoy them more, but (kudos to the author) this series is very consistent.
I wish that this book had actual trials to prove the mate bond. I really liked the plot here. The prison where everyone loses their memories, paired with the evil woman who makes a deal. The trials! Oh, am I ever a sucker for a book with trials! But… These trials seemed to be all sex and orgies. Those are not the kind of trials I am into. We did eventually move past that and into more life-threatening trials, which I enjoyed thoroughly.
This series is very, very smut heavy, and this novella stayed true to the series. Considering Lir couldn't even remember Louisa, the author did a good job at finding a way to make it smut heavy without Lir straying outside the marriage.
I'll say this, I don't go for smut. So, I do tend to skip those parts, and there was enough plot to this one that I was interested enough to keep going, and there was actually still a story for me to read. (In comparison to book one, where if you skipped the smut, there was basically no story at all).
I wish that this book had actual trials to prove the mate bond. I really liked the plot here. The prison where everyone loses their memories, paired with the evil woman who makes a deal. The trials! Oh, am I ever a sucker for a book with trials! But… These trials seemed to be all sex and orgies. Those are not the kind of trials I am into. We did eventually move past that and into more life-threatening trials, which I enjoyed thoroughly.
This series is very, very smut heavy, and this novella stayed true to the series. Considering Lir couldn't even remember Louisa, the author did a good job at finding a way to make it smut heavy without Lir straying outside the marriage.
I'll say this, I don't go for smut. So, I do tend to skip those parts, and there was enough plot to this one that I was interested enough to keep going, and there was actually still a story for me to read. (In comparison to book one, where if you skipped the smut, there was basically no story at all).
March 20, 2024
As we continue on with Lir and Louisa’s story, we follow them into the prison of Grimm Dorcha to hear the cases of the Unseelie Fat that Drosselmeyer freed from his mansion. But when their journey takes an unexpected turn, they are trapped in an icy stronghold and forced to play a twisted game. As the stakes rise higher, Louisa must confront her deepest doubts about her marriage and her worst fears about life in Faerie--as well as some harsh truths about herself.
————————————————————
“Just making conversation.”
“I hate conversation.”
“Perhaps you’ve been talking to the wrong people.”
I give her a broad smile. “I’m a fucking delight.”
————————————————————
“So… having your memories must be nice,” I persist. “I’m sure you’re grateful for that.”
“Remembrance can be a curse,” replies Fionn.
“Of course. There are things I wish I could forget. Like the first time I let someone put his d*ck in my as*. I was not ready for that. Should have chosen someone with a smaller c*ck, if you know what I mean.”
————————————————————
I’ve been viewing my marriage as something to be escaped, because I’m dissatisfied, because I seek novelty, and Lir has been too busy to provide it. And yes, he bears some fault for that. But I’m realizing now that the real cage isn’t my marriage—it’s one I carry with me, all the time. One I keep slipping back into, mentally.
————————————————————
I couldn’t put this book down, it had me all up in my emotional feels within myself and my marriage. It’s just so thoughtfully written with their journey together on finding themselves time after time. Chosen mates will always find a way and it shows in every trial they took together knowing or not. Louisa grew within herself and seeing how things needed to be different in order for them to be happy again. Lir just knew he needed to keep choosing her time after time. And it was just so beautifully tragic and romantic. And OMG the spice, Rebecca knows how to put it on paper!!! Yes ma’am!
I highly recommend diving into this series because this is a great epilogue to their story. So so good!!
Recommend 10/10!!
Spice: 4.8/5 (so hot!)
————————————————————
“Just making conversation.”
“I hate conversation.”
“Perhaps you’ve been talking to the wrong people.”
I give her a broad smile. “I’m a fucking delight.”
————————————————————
“So… having your memories must be nice,” I persist. “I’m sure you’re grateful for that.”
“Remembrance can be a curse,” replies Fionn.
“Of course. There are things I wish I could forget. Like the first time I let someone put his d*ck in my as*. I was not ready for that. Should have chosen someone with a smaller c*ck, if you know what I mean.”
————————————————————
I’ve been viewing my marriage as something to be escaped, because I’m dissatisfied, because I seek novelty, and Lir has been too busy to provide it. And yes, he bears some fault for that. But I’m realizing now that the real cage isn’t my marriage—it’s one I carry with me, all the time. One I keep slipping back into, mentally.
————————————————————
I couldn’t put this book down, it had me all up in my emotional feels within myself and my marriage. It’s just so thoughtfully written with their journey together on finding themselves time after time. Chosen mates will always find a way and it shows in every trial they took together knowing or not. Louisa grew within herself and seeing how things needed to be different in order for them to be happy again. Lir just knew he needed to keep choosing her time after time. And it was just so beautifully tragic and romantic. And OMG the spice, Rebecca knows how to put it on paper!!! Yes ma’am!
I highly recommend diving into this series because this is a great epilogue to their story. So so good!!
Recommend 10/10!!
Spice: 4.8/5 (so hot!)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 8, 2025
3.75 out of 5 stars: I loved going into more of the mate bonds and watching it show how love can transcend for your love for someone being for their soul and not their body. Most of the spice was yummy even if not all for me.
The trials also adding an element of tension even if the torture did get a bit gory. There was a bit of a retelling aspect in this but I felt lighter in this one over Kenney's others. Finally I loved the fact that the most important theme is letting yourself be heard by your partner.
The trials also adding an element of tension even if the torture did get a bit gory. There was a bit of a retelling aspect in this but I felt lighter in this one over Kenney's others. Finally I loved the fact that the most important theme is letting yourself be heard by your partner.
December 29, 2025
“I choose you,” I scream through a sob. “I fucking choose you, and I’ll do it over and over as long as I live. I promise, darling, I promise.”
I’m so sad that this is the last book in the Wicked Darlings Series. I have loved every couple throughout the series, and of course Lir and Louisa are no exception. Their relationship is complex and I honestly saw myself in them which was a crazy self reflective reading experience! Definitely gonna read the spinoff books ❤️
I’m so sad that this is the last book in the Wicked Darlings Series. I have loved every couple throughout the series, and of course Lir and Louisa are no exception. Their relationship is complex and I honestly saw myself in them which was a crazy self reflective reading experience! Definitely gonna read the spinoff books ❤️
March 2, 2024
5 stars.. 4.5 🌶️🌶️ i loved getting to know Louisa and Lir more and this was the perfect mix of suspense and spice!! So good!!
March 5, 2024
Rebecca F. Kenney has done it again. Fun, fast-paced read with a ton of. . . adventure. 😏
January 14, 2025
romance is not dead! *i say as he bangs her in dragon form*
January 27, 2025
I’m so sad the series is over😭
January 3, 2025
Continuing Louisa and Lir’s story post A Court of Sugar and Spice, and set at the same time as A Court of Hearts and Hunger, a debauched retelling of the Snow Queen. Thought if you ask me, it really isn’t remotely close, besides having a villainous self appointed “queen” who controls ice (though you don’t see much of her controlling it rather than the effects it leaves behind), and a girl and boy character. And that is about where the similarities end to the original story.
While trying to remember this is a novella, and shorter than the other books in the series, it still could have had depth and a proper story telling rather than the rushed sense of it all. There is much more telling the reader what someone’s characteristics are, than showing them. And the repetitiveness of this became so much I was having to skip over some parts.
The only true parts where the book felt even a little more alive than it actually was were during the sex scenes. But even those were more notably rushed through compared to the author’s previous style. Lir seemed like a different person than he was in book 1 — yes, I know he had his memories repressed so it automatically made him different, I mean that it felt like a brand new person as a whole. Not the Lir we knew in book one, with repressed memories. Even Louisa was quiet…too much. Between the constant talk of needing sex, she seemed to lack true depth. And when it randomly appeared she had depth, it wasn’t delved into. It was very boring “this is what I am, this is how I act, oh look I’m doing it again.” It lacked the push that they both deserved to get them towards the end.
And yes, I’m sure most would argue that I am wrong, and that’s fine. This is my opinion and review. But it was very boring, and Lir and Louisa deserved to be explored deeper and have this adventure told in full length.
Then there was the ice queen, who went from 0 to 100 it seemed. From a seemingly soft bargain making to furious rage and jealousy, nothing so in between. And then her death was a speck of a line or two. I was more interested in her and her background and her story than the others. Even Raptor, I was more interested in getting to know him better as well.
Overall, good sex, alright story.
While trying to remember this is a novella, and shorter than the other books in the series, it still could have had depth and a proper story telling rather than the rushed sense of it all. There is much more telling the reader what someone’s characteristics are, than showing them. And the repetitiveness of this became so much I was having to skip over some parts.
The only true parts where the book felt even a little more alive than it actually was were during the sex scenes. But even those were more notably rushed through compared to the author’s previous style. Lir seemed like a different person than he was in book 1 — yes, I know he had his memories repressed so it automatically made him different, I mean that it felt like a brand new person as a whole. Not the Lir we knew in book one, with repressed memories. Even Louisa was quiet…too much. Between the constant talk of needing sex, she seemed to lack true depth. And when it randomly appeared she had depth, it wasn’t delved into. It was very boring “this is what I am, this is how I act, oh look I’m doing it again.” It lacked the push that they both deserved to get them towards the end.
And yes, I’m sure most would argue that I am wrong, and that’s fine. This is my opinion and review. But it was very boring, and Lir and Louisa deserved to be explored deeper and have this adventure told in full length.
Then there was the ice queen, who went from 0 to 100 it seemed. From a seemingly soft bargain making to furious rage and jealousy, nothing so in between. And then her death was a speck of a line or two. I was more interested in her and her background and her story than the others. Even Raptor, I was more interested in getting to know him better as well.
Overall, good sex, alright story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 31, 2025
I was lucky enough to read this in beta, and am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Wicked Darlings fans who have been agonizing and theorizing about where Lir and Louisa were while Fin & Clara adventured after Alice in Hearts & Hunger, you’ll find your answers within A Prison of Ink & Ice.
I’ve seen a handful of other street team members who also beta read this call it heart wrenching and I have to agree with that. This one is definitely an emotional rollercoaster for the reader just as much as for the characters, not to mention their physical and mental endurances throughout this story. That being said, the growth for both characters from the story’s beginning to its end is exponential, and I really enjoyed the chance both to get some insight as to what we got a hint they were up to during the events of Hearts & Hunger, and to get a deeper look at their dynamic and relationship following their beginning in Sugar & Spice.
Once again, Rebecca has done a wonderful job of conveying a lot of very real emotions and the process of working through them, & I thoroughly enjoyed it. These characters still have every bit of my heart.
Wicked Darlings fans who have been agonizing and theorizing about where Lir and Louisa were while Fin & Clara adventured after Alice in Hearts & Hunger, you’ll find your answers within A Prison of Ink & Ice.
I’ve seen a handful of other street team members who also beta read this call it heart wrenching and I have to agree with that. This one is definitely an emotional rollercoaster for the reader just as much as for the characters, not to mention their physical and mental endurances throughout this story. That being said, the growth for both characters from the story’s beginning to its end is exponential, and I really enjoyed the chance both to get some insight as to what we got a hint they were up to during the events of Hearts & Hunger, and to get a deeper look at their dynamic and relationship following their beginning in Sugar & Spice.
Once again, Rebecca has done a wonderful job of conveying a lot of very real emotions and the process of working through them, & I thoroughly enjoyed it. These characters still have every bit of my heart.
December 1, 2025
Overall rating: 4.5/5
Spice: 5/5
Narrator: Female: 5/5 Male: 1/5
Cliffhanger: 0/5
Spice: 5/5
Narrator: Female: 5/5 Male: 1/5
Cliffhanger: 0/5
If you read A Court of Sugar and Spice and liked it even a little, then this is a must read. All of Lousia and LIr’s personal and relationship issues are resolved with in a very satisfying way. It’s an erotic games and trials, a deep dive into these two characters’ psyche. I love when spice is used to explore a character’s psychology and this does it beautifully.
This is a Snow Queen retelling though all I knew of that particular tale was what I read on Wikipedia before beginning this book.
Lir and Louisa, the King and Queen of the Seelie Fae travel to a prison to decide which of the Unseelie released from Drosselmeyer’s curse are safe to release home. Instead, they are caught up in a powerful memory wiping spell that leaves them slaves to the Banrion (Snow Queen), an ancient Unseelie Fae released by Drosselmeyer.
Being human saved Louisa from her memories being wiped and the Snow Queen strikes a deal with her. She and Lir (whose memories are gone) will undergo a series of trials to test their Chosen Mate Bond and if they survive together they will be released memories intact.
Each trial results in increasingly kinky spice and more danger. It strips away their defenses, layer by layer. Louisa is forced to take a clear look at herself, at her role in her marriage, and at what she needs from her partner. It’s a painful and beautiful process.
Lir doesn’t have memories for the majority of the book and this books addresses who are you without those? What is left? Your morals? Your personality? Your likes and dislikes? Your inhibitions? Who you love? It’s a fascinating dive. (Though I have to say the male narrator is odd and whiny. You are better off reading his parts).
I recommend this be read second in the Wicked Darlings series instead of fourth. The whole series has a better flow that way, since it takes place at the same time at A Court of Hearts and Hunger, but that book introduces a whole new cast of characters. You can avoid any spoilers by skipping one paragraph of Fin’s dialogue on pg 216.
Cautions:As with A Court of Sugar and Spice this is not for the faint of heart. This is erotica level spice, death, gore, torture (and not the typical variety), and one deeply disturbing scene where the fae eat a human.
This is a deeply romantic psychological journey, erotic and creative. I recommend it for lovers of very spicy dark fantasy romance.
March 4, 2024
Deluciously dark, sweet and spicy.
These are the words I would use to describe this story.
This is the 4th book in the Wicked Darlings series and the timeline is at the same time the events of A Court Of Hearts And Hunger took place. Ever since I read about Clara's conversation with Louisa in A Court Of Hearts And Hunger I could tell that something wasn't right in Lir and Louisa's part of the world and it definitely piqued my interest. In A Prison Of Ink And Ice Rebecca F Kenney shows us the story that was unfolding on the other side of the mirror.
This is the story that Lir and Louisa deserved (I mean that in a positive way). A story where they go through hell, but at the same time all those gruesome, horrifying things that they went through helped them learn more about themselves and eachother. It was like a very twisted couples therapy, if you will. 🙈 And they came out of it stronger as a couple and more determined than ever to make their relationship work.
This story was dark, 🔥 as hell, but also sweet. And I love the way this author always knows how to ballance these things.
That being said, I wouldn't mind switching places with Louisa every now and then. 😉
As for TW, if you've made it this far in the series, you know what to expect. 🤭
These are the words I would use to describe this story.
This is the 4th book in the Wicked Darlings series and the timeline is at the same time the events of A Court Of Hearts And Hunger took place. Ever since I read about Clara's conversation with Louisa in A Court Of Hearts And Hunger I could tell that something wasn't right in Lir and Louisa's part of the world and it definitely piqued my interest. In A Prison Of Ink And Ice Rebecca F Kenney shows us the story that was unfolding on the other side of the mirror.
This is the story that Lir and Louisa deserved (I mean that in a positive way). A story where they go through hell, but at the same time all those gruesome, horrifying things that they went through helped them learn more about themselves and eachother. It was like a very twisted couples therapy, if you will. 🙈 And they came out of it stronger as a couple and more determined than ever to make their relationship work.
This story was dark, 🔥 as hell, but also sweet. And I love the way this author always knows how to ballance these things.
That being said, I wouldn't mind switching places with Louisa every now and then. 😉
As for TW, if you've made it this far in the series, you know what to expect. 🤭
March 5, 2024
A spicy dive into self worth, love, and compromise
I’ve loved all of Rebecca’s other books in this series so picking up this one was a no brainer. I admit, I wasn’t sure what to expect because most of her stories have been focused on Finn and Clara but in this one, we get some focus on Lir and Louisa.
And I loved it. I adore how she writes Louisa whose ADHD is very prevalent. Being inside her head and hearing all those insecurities she keeps bottled up was a great chance to see her with all her layers.
The way they address the importance of a relationship and the work that goes into it is such a fresh breath of fresh air. I loved seeing honesty, openness, and communication given the importance they deserve.
And never fear, the spice that she does so well is here yet all done with the consent we’ve come to expect from her! There are some absolute banger lines in here too!
Absolutely a worthy addition to the series.
I’ve loved all of Rebecca’s other books in this series so picking up this one was a no brainer. I admit, I wasn’t sure what to expect because most of her stories have been focused on Finn and Clara but in this one, we get some focus on Lir and Louisa.
And I loved it. I adore how she writes Louisa whose ADHD is very prevalent. Being inside her head and hearing all those insecurities she keeps bottled up was a great chance to see her with all her layers.
The way they address the importance of a relationship and the work that goes into it is such a fresh breath of fresh air. I loved seeing honesty, openness, and communication given the importance they deserve.
And never fear, the spice that she does so well is here yet all done with the consent we’ve come to expect from her! There are some absolute banger lines in here too!
Absolutely a worthy addition to the series.
April 1, 2024
imagine that u are me . and u finish this book at three in the morning in bed next to your boyfriend and you’re looking at goodreads wondering how on earth to rate it . and he’s like “what was your book about” and smiling expectantly at you because he thinks he can help you rate it and u have to explain what happened and then suddenly it is four in the morning and u are both crying with laughter. he said 5 stars btw.
i actually think this one could’ve been a full book instead of just a novella, i would’ve liked to go more in depth on the banríon. i liked louisa as our protagonist, and i loved reading the various challenges they were put through, but the ending felt rushed. on kindle the story finishes at 84% and the final 16% is a preview for a hunt so wild and cruel - it just felt very abrupt to me.
also everyone’s talking about the dragon scene but believe it or not that wasn’t the hardest thing to explain to my boyfriend 💀
i actually think this one could’ve been a full book instead of just a novella, i would’ve liked to go more in depth on the banríon. i liked louisa as our protagonist, and i loved reading the various challenges they were put through, but the ending felt rushed. on kindle the story finishes at 84% and the final 16% is a preview for a hunt so wild and cruel - it just felt very abrupt to me.
also everyone’s talking about the dragon scene but believe it or not that wasn’t the hardest thing to explain to my boyfriend 💀
Read
May 31, 2024With the first volume of Wicked Darlings evenly split between Louisa and Clara, and the second focused on Clara and Finias, I was wanting to know more about Louisa and Lir's life. The deep differences between their characters, as well as his heavy responsibilities as king, were setting them up for a rocky relationship. So Rebecca really sent them to the most brutal couple therapist ever: the Ice Queen.
Some areas of the story could have benefitted from some more exploration, like the characters populating the prison, or even the Banrion herself, who remains in many ways a mystery. However, the ever rising stakes and emotional trials of Lir and Louisa make up for all of that.
Besides Louisa, who grows a great deal in confidence and empathy during the story, I loved the chance to get to know Lir a bit more and the origins of his serious persona.
I read it all in one sitting, fretting for Louisa and Lir the whole time, and I think that speaks for itself.
Some areas of the story could have benefitted from some more exploration, like the characters populating the prison, or even the Banrion herself, who remains in many ways a mystery. However, the ever rising stakes and emotional trials of Lir and Louisa make up for all of that.
Besides Louisa, who grows a great deal in confidence and empathy during the story, I loved the chance to get to know Lir a bit more and the origins of his serious persona.
I read it all in one sitting, fretting for Louisa and Lir the whole time, and I think that speaks for itself.
December 11, 2024
Most emotional of the series! The author literally sent her weakest couple of the series to a messed up form of therapy, and I loved this! It was beautiful!
--
Your essence, your soul. I would find you in any form, love you in any lifetime.”
--
Trapped under the thumb of a fae determined to truly understand the Chosen Mating bond, Louisa and Lir fight to overcome every obstacle put in their way.
I loved how hard they fought for each other even when memories were gone. Every time Lir recognized her, I teared up a little. I appreciated that even after that, they realized how much more they truly had to work through. These two needed it! I love them more as a couple afrer this.
Content warnings: violence, gore, blood, torture, mention of CSA, dubious consent, bdsm themes (breath, pet, size, dragon play, public sex), fae eating humans, magical gender swap (temporary), thoughts of cheating, adhd stem depictions
My rating: 5/5
Spice: 5/5
--
Your essence, your soul. I would find you in any form, love you in any lifetime.”
--
Trapped under the thumb of a fae determined to truly understand the Chosen Mating bond, Louisa and Lir fight to overcome every obstacle put in their way.
I loved how hard they fought for each other even when memories were gone. Every time Lir recognized her, I teared up a little. I appreciated that even after that, they realized how much more they truly had to work through. These two needed it! I love them more as a couple afrer this.
Content warnings: violence, gore, blood, torture, mention of CSA, dubious consent, bdsm themes (breath, pet, size, dragon play, public sex), fae eating humans, magical gender swap (temporary), thoughts of cheating, adhd stem depictions
My rating: 5/5
Spice: 5/5
March 8, 2025
This is Wicked Darlings, #4, however, the blurb indicates the story runs concurrently with #2, A Court of Hearts and Hunger so I’m going to read this before #3, A City of Emeralds and Envy. I’ll decide if it’s a good decision or not after I finish all four books.*
I don’t recall if I ever read Hans Christian Andersen’s The Snow Queen so I can’t compare similarities and differences. I will state that the queen in this book is far more diabolical than any other I recall. Kudos to the author’s imagination for dreaming this up. It was a real nail biter.
Seelie King Lirannon and his new wife, Queen Louisa, are touring their kingdom so the residents can meet her and hopefully accept that she is human. Their first stop is the prison Griem Dorcha so Lir can judge whether captured Unseelie should be allowed to return home. (How they came to be imprisoned is told in book 1, A Court of Sugar and Spice)
Lir and Louisa are captured by Banríon, a powerful Fae able to manifest ice and snow. She wants to break their bond and her testing becomes lethal as time goes on. There are so many facets to her trials that it may be impossible for them to survive.
*It didn’t make a difference for me (3/8/25)
I don’t recall if I ever read Hans Christian Andersen’s The Snow Queen so I can’t compare similarities and differences. I will state that the queen in this book is far more diabolical than any other I recall. Kudos to the author’s imagination for dreaming this up. It was a real nail biter.
Seelie King Lirannon and his new wife, Queen Louisa, are touring their kingdom so the residents can meet her and hopefully accept that she is human. Their first stop is the prison Griem Dorcha so Lir can judge whether captured Unseelie should be allowed to return home. (How they came to be imprisoned is told in book 1, A Court of Sugar and Spice)
Lir and Louisa are captured by Banríon, a powerful Fae able to manifest ice and snow. She wants to break their bond and her testing becomes lethal as time goes on. There are so many facets to her trials that it may be impossible for them to survive.
*It didn’t make a difference for me (3/8/25)
March 19, 2024
This short novel is part of the Wicked Darlings series. I'd read the A Court of Sugar and Spice, the book 1 in the series, but hadn't read book 2 & 3 yet. Since this book follows Louisa and Lir, it's helpful to have read book 1 first since that book is about how they meet.
I felt this book had a much darker tone than book 1. Parts of it had horror vibes. I won't mention any spoilers, but Rebecca's website has a good page on content warnings if that might be an issue.
I really liked the storyline of what happens after the HEA. Books often show the main characters getting together, but not necessarily what happens afterwards. Do they stay happy together? Do they have any regrets? Are fated mates really destined to be together? This story explores those questions with Louisa and Lir. Sometimes in dark ways. However, there are also light moments and plenty of spicy scenes.
I felt this book had a much darker tone than book 1. Parts of it had horror vibes. I won't mention any spoilers, but Rebecca's website has a good page on content warnings if that might be an issue.
I really liked the storyline of what happens after the HEA. Books often show the main characters getting together, but not necessarily what happens afterwards. Do they stay happy together? Do they have any regrets? Are fated mates really destined to be together? This story explores those questions with Louisa and Lir. Sometimes in dark ways. However, there are also light moments and plenty of spicy scenes.
August 27, 2024
Picked this one up about 4 times before actually diving in fully . I love the wicked darling series so much I knew I had to read this one too. Unfortunately I wasn't a huge fan of Louisa in the other books and found myself rolling my eyes at her character before . With that being said that's what took me so long to fully dive in, but boy am I glad I did !
This story shines a completely different light on Louisa and Lir that we all needed to see. I found this one to be the most relatable out of the series and it really tugged on my heart strings while also keeping me completely wrapped up from all the suspense. As usual with this series I finished this book with in two days and couldn't put it down ! I found myself so in love with the new characters and wanting more by the end !
While Rebecca's books might not be for everyone she's always right on the mark for me !
This story shines a completely different light on Louisa and Lir that we all needed to see. I found this one to be the most relatable out of the series and it really tugged on my heart strings while also keeping me completely wrapped up from all the suspense. As usual with this series I finished this book with in two days and couldn't put it down ! I found myself so in love with the new characters and wanting more by the end !
While Rebecca's books might not be for everyone she's always right on the mark for me !
March 17, 2024
Whatever you knew about the snow queen take that out and throw it in the trash. Remember the odd mirror call between clara and louisa? Well boy oh boy did you get the answer and then some. This story shows all the ongst, and crazy, and weird things that can happen during that Newlywed Stage. It shows the complexcities of a new relationship , and how they navigated through it and worked through their problems. Neither of them was listening to the other and that sets up a shaky foundation. Will they be able to make it out unscathed or will their new found love be lost? Read this to find out.
Spice 10/10 would definitly recommend
Story 9.8/10 only because I didn't want it to end #marrage in trouble #fantasy #romantasy #Spicyfaeries #icequeen #retelling #iceandspice
Spice 10/10 would definitly recommend
Story 9.8/10 only because I didn't want it to end #marrage in trouble #fantasy #romantasy #Spicyfaeries #icequeen #retelling #iceandspice
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