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Into the Shadows #1
A Fate so Wicked
The Hunger Games meets A Court of Thorns and Roses in this dark, emotional fantasy romance novel
Just as sin promises judgment, virtue comes with its own punishment
Eighteen-year-old Elowyn Rosewood’s mother is dying. Having explored every remedy to no avail, she’s desperate for a cure. With nothing but pure grit and determination, Elowyn sneaks into the faerie realm of Faerway in search of a flower with magical healing properties. She thought the journey would be simple, until she’s captured and sentenced to compete against nine other prisoners in a series of trials, each intricately designed to resemble one of the Seven Deadly Sins.
Enter Talon Warwick. An ethereal, dark-haired faerie guard with a mysterious past and motives of his own. When he unexpectedly volunteers to train Elowyn for the trials, she’s convinced he wants her dead. Despite her suspicions, she’s drawn to Talon and soon discovers there’s more to him than meets the eye. Forced to fight for her life, Elowyn can’t trust anyone. It’s kill or be killed and some competitors will stop at nothing to come out victorious. However, when forbidden feelings blossom and secrets come to light, Elowyn will have to choose between her heart or the thing she wants most…her freedom.
Get swept away in this high-stakes, enemies to lovers romance, filled with secrets, deception and plot twists that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas, Jennifer L. Armentrout and Rebecca Yarros
"I loved this so much! I love their chemistry and banter!"
"I haven't devoured a book like that in such a long time. I loved it!!!!!!"
"Beautiful descriptions that really allow me to visualize everything and really feel it."
Reader Reviews
Just as sin promises judgment, virtue comes with its own punishment
Eighteen-year-old Elowyn Rosewood’s mother is dying. Having explored every remedy to no avail, she’s desperate for a cure. With nothing but pure grit and determination, Elowyn sneaks into the faerie realm of Faerway in search of a flower with magical healing properties. She thought the journey would be simple, until she’s captured and sentenced to compete against nine other prisoners in a series of trials, each intricately designed to resemble one of the Seven Deadly Sins.
Enter Talon Warwick. An ethereal, dark-haired faerie guard with a mysterious past and motives of his own. When he unexpectedly volunteers to train Elowyn for the trials, she’s convinced he wants her dead. Despite her suspicions, she’s drawn to Talon and soon discovers there’s more to him than meets the eye. Forced to fight for her life, Elowyn can’t trust anyone. It’s kill or be killed and some competitors will stop at nothing to come out victorious. However, when forbidden feelings blossom and secrets come to light, Elowyn will have to choose between her heart or the thing she wants most…her freedom.
Get swept away in this high-stakes, enemies to lovers romance, filled with secrets, deception and plot twists that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas, Jennifer L. Armentrout and Rebecca Yarros
"I loved this so much! I love their chemistry and banter!"
"I haven't devoured a book like that in such a long time. I loved it!!!!!!"
"Beautiful descriptions that really allow me to visualize everything and really feel it."
Reader Reviews
412 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 5, 2024
44 people are currently reading
954 people want to read
About the author
K.E. Austin
1 book44 followersK.E. Austin was born and raised in the tropical paradise of South Florida before relocating to the North Georgia mountains with her family. Growing up, she escaped into faraway lands, reading anything that made her believe that one day, she, too, would discover she had magical powers (although, the jury is still out on that one). When she's not spending time with her family and chasing waterfalls, she enjoys writing emotionally charged characters with compelling plots that feature high stakes and mysterious love interests.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 139 reviews
May 28, 2024
Alright. I have no fight left in me to chase after the chapters in this book in the hopes that it turns around and I end up liking it. DNF @32%
This book is so formulaic that it made me cringe. Poor little human girl finds herself trapped in the Fae lands. She must compete in a trial in order to be set free.
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ Ofc she is a Bella- clumsy, uncoordinated and needs help.
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ Ofc there is a bruting guard who has been etched from the god's because he's just so gorgeous. Who decides to help her and immediately nicknames her 'firefly' bc ofc he does. 🙄
˖*°࿐ •*⁀➷ I avoid so many romantasy books for this specific reason - I want something new. Something unique. Not something that is trying so hard to be something that has already been done.
I recommend if you like a wish.com version of ACOTAR mixed with a temu version of HG.
The Hunger Games ✘ A Court of Thorns and Roses you say??
This book is so formulaic that it made me cringe. Poor little human girl finds herself trapped in the Fae lands. She must compete in a trial in order to be set free.
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ Ofc she is a Bella- clumsy, uncoordinated and needs help.
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ Ofc there is a bruting guard who has been etched from the god's because he's just so gorgeous. Who decides to help her and immediately nicknames her 'firefly' bc ofc he does. 🙄
˖*°࿐ •*⁀➷ I avoid so many romantasy books for this specific reason - I want something new. Something unique. Not something that is trying so hard to be something that has already been done.
I recommend if you like a wish.com version of ACOTAR mixed with a temu version of HG.
The Hunger Games ✘ A Court of Thorns and Roses you say??
February 22, 2024
I knew this was going to be a good one!!
I received this ARC on the 20th and finished it within two days. There has been nothing in this world that I’ve wanted to finish more than this book. From the very first page I was sucked into the world and wanted nothing more than to help our main female protagonist.
She is the definition of determination and I felt so much empathy for her. I wanted to jump into the page and do everything in my power to help her reach her goal. Which brings me to my first point. Elowyn is a likable character. She wasn’t insufferable and many of the things she does are justified, as in any one of us would feel and react the way she did if we were in her shoes. Especially in regard to other characters. Which brings me to my second point.
Every single character in this book had a purpose. There were no throwaway characters and those who came into contact with our main character pushed the story and her drive forward and I love that. I am such a snob when it comes to small details, but those details make or break the cohesion of a book. I also would like to commend K.E. Austin for thinking outside the box regarding the connection with the male character. Many books nowadays rush the connection and sometimes it just doesn’t read well, but in this book, it was almost perfect! There was thoughts of him obviously being attractive but also remembering her purpose and his connection to her circumstance.
My third point, and I have already mentioned this, is the fact that the world building is so carefully and beautifully written. The author herself mentioned the ties between ACOTAR and The Hunger Games and while there are obvious similarities, but there are also obvious differences. To avoid any spoilers I will not mention those here. But just be mindful that there are similarities in the other two series, so don’t get worried when you see them.
My last point is the pacing. I am a stickler for perfect pacing and it worked so perfectly here. It wasn’t too fast or too slow. The events that happen are discussed and not thrown away or shoved to the side. It was just right and everything worked in our main characters favor.
Overall, I really loved this book and I am so excited for the second one!!!!
I received this ARC on the 20th and finished it within two days. There has been nothing in this world that I’ve wanted to finish more than this book. From the very first page I was sucked into the world and wanted nothing more than to help our main female protagonist.
She is the definition of determination and I felt so much empathy for her. I wanted to jump into the page and do everything in my power to help her reach her goal. Which brings me to my first point. Elowyn is a likable character. She wasn’t insufferable and many of the things she does are justified, as in any one of us would feel and react the way she did if we were in her shoes. Especially in regard to other characters. Which brings me to my second point.
Every single character in this book had a purpose. There were no throwaway characters and those who came into contact with our main character pushed the story and her drive forward and I love that. I am such a snob when it comes to small details, but those details make or break the cohesion of a book. I also would like to commend K.E. Austin for thinking outside the box regarding the connection with the male character. Many books nowadays rush the connection and sometimes it just doesn’t read well, but in this book, it was almost perfect! There was thoughts of him obviously being attractive but also remembering her purpose and his connection to her circumstance.
My third point, and I have already mentioned this, is the fact that the world building is so carefully and beautifully written. The author herself mentioned the ties between ACOTAR and The Hunger Games and while there are obvious similarities, but there are also obvious differences. To avoid any spoilers I will not mention those here. But just be mindful that there are similarities in the other two series, so don’t get worried when you see them.
My last point is the pacing. I am a stickler for perfect pacing and it worked so perfectly here. It wasn’t too fast or too slow. The events that happen are discussed and not thrown away or shoved to the side. It was just right and everything worked in our main characters favor.
Overall, I really loved this book and I am so excited for the second one!!!!
February 22, 2024
A Fate so Wicked✨
I received a e-arc copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.
So… I started reading this book while being in a book slump and as soon as I started reading A Fate so Wicked I could not put it down!
I normally don’t review books because the pressure of leaving a review and being honest gives me anxiety BUT this book and TALON is my new obsession.
Now with that being said this may not be the spiciest book but it’s definitely a cute romance read and if you want a new book boyfriend who calls you a good girl, then read this book.
The book was a good read but I do think the ending was probably my least favourite part, I felt like something was missing BUT do not let that stop you from reading this! In the end I loved the book and would definitely recommend 💕
I received a e-arc copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.
So… I started reading this book while being in a book slump and as soon as I started reading A Fate so Wicked I could not put it down!
I normally don’t review books because the pressure of leaving a review and being honest gives me anxiety BUT this book and TALON is my new obsession.
Now with that being said this may not be the spiciest book but it’s definitely a cute romance read and if you want a new book boyfriend who calls you a good girl, then read this book.
The book was a good read but I do think the ending was probably my least favourite part, I felt like something was missing BUT do not let that stop you from reading this! In the end I loved the book and would definitely recommend 💕
January 7, 2025
Loved this book so much! It had me kicking, screaming, crying, blushing, it broke my heart multiple times. This book has me in a choke hold! ❤
Talon might be my favorite book boyfriend of 2024, such 'Four' vibes and just love how he slowly starts to fall for her. Can't wait for the second book, So much Chemistry and banter I'm so sad I finished this book so quickly. 😭
Talon might be my favorite book boyfriend of 2024, such 'Four' vibes and just love how he slowly starts to fall for her. Can't wait for the second book, So much Chemistry and banter I'm so sad I finished this book so quickly. 😭
February 22, 2024
This book completely consumed me! From the very first page you know it's going to be a roller coaster of a story and I was not disappointed! I can't wait for the next one! 😍
February 23, 2024
This book HOOKED me from the start!
The pace was amazing, usually there’s points in a book where things drag and I’m just waiting for it to be over, but I never felt that! I have such love for the Female MC, and the way she is portrayed is perfect to me! So many books have a FMC who just jumps into being this badass but we don’t really see the tolls it takes to get there. I felt what she was feeling, the shock and horror of where she was and what was happening, the physical and mental toll thing took on her, ugh! Perfect!!
And TALON! Oh myyy. And I love the character progression between him and Elowyn! It’s not like a switch being flipped which I notice a lot, it’s very gradual and realistic. There is such a sense of realism in this book that is was nearly impossible to NOT get sucked in.
By the end I was crying, which is always a good thing for me. Give me ALL the emotions! But the ending for ME was great, some may not like it, but it answered enough questions to make my anxiety ridden heart happy, but left enough open for me to know the next book will be just as good, if not better!!!
I’m not super big into ARC reads, especially since I tend to like my books quite a bit on the spicy side, and lots of times dark and twisty, but something about this one made me want to do it and honestly, even though it is very very mild for my taste, the most disappointing part of this expierence.. is that the book isn’t even released yet and I’m already getting impatient waiting for the next one!!!
I was a well written book, tame enough for even a YA read, but still good enough to be enjoyed by adults as well! Can’t wait to get my hands on the next one!
The pace was amazing, usually there’s points in a book where things drag and I’m just waiting for it to be over, but I never felt that! I have such love for the Female MC, and the way she is portrayed is perfect to me! So many books have a FMC who just jumps into being this badass but we don’t really see the tolls it takes to get there. I felt what she was feeling, the shock and horror of where she was and what was happening, the physical and mental toll thing took on her, ugh! Perfect!!
And TALON! Oh myyy. And I love the character progression between him and Elowyn! It’s not like a switch being flipped which I notice a lot, it’s very gradual and realistic. There is such a sense of realism in this book that is was nearly impossible to NOT get sucked in.
By the end I was crying, which is always a good thing for me. Give me ALL the emotions! But the ending for ME was great, some may not like it, but it answered enough questions to make my anxiety ridden heart happy, but left enough open for me to know the next book will be just as good, if not better!!!
I’m not super big into ARC reads, especially since I tend to like my books quite a bit on the spicy side, and lots of times dark and twisty, but something about this one made me want to do it and honestly, even though it is very very mild for my taste, the most disappointing part of this expierence.. is that the book isn’t even released yet and I’m already getting impatient waiting for the next one!!!
I was a well written book, tame enough for even a YA read, but still good enough to be enjoyed by adults as well! Can’t wait to get my hands on the next one!
February 26, 2024
4.5 stars ~ "whatever means necessary"
* i received an e-arc copy of this book in exchange for an honest review *
this is such a strong debut novel and i already can't wait to read the rest of this series and sad that i have to wait ;-; i'm not usually the biggest fan of books based off of trials, but i thoroughly enjoyed it in this book. i absolutely LOVE talon, a bit more than the fmc elowyn. i feel like elowyn's stubbornness and hot-headedness was a bit overdone imo and repetitive, and while i understand what she was going through that contributed to it, i'm excited (and hopeful) to see character growth as the series continues. the ending left me wanting more, but was not a cliffhanger which was what i expect (im not a fan of cliffhangers as my anxiety just cannot handle lol). overall, a great debut novel that i think will have fantasy readers enjoying! <3
* i received an e-arc copy of this book in exchange for an honest review *
this is such a strong debut novel and i already can't wait to read the rest of this series and sad that i have to wait ;-; i'm not usually the biggest fan of books based off of trials, but i thoroughly enjoyed it in this book. i absolutely LOVE talon, a bit more than the fmc elowyn. i feel like elowyn's stubbornness and hot-headedness was a bit overdone imo and repetitive, and while i understand what she was going through that contributed to it, i'm excited (and hopeful) to see character growth as the series continues. the ending left me wanting more, but was not a cliffhanger which was what i expect (im not a fan of cliffhangers as my anxiety just cannot handle lol). overall, a great debut novel that i think will have fantasy readers enjoying! <3
February 24, 2024
Thank you so much for providing an ARC and allowing the honor to ARC read this🖤
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️/5
The Hunger Games meets A Court of Thorns and Roses in this new dark fantasy novel by K.E. Austin.
Elowyn's world is divided. There's the faerie realm and the human realm. Both realms are separated by an iron-laden river that keeps the fae from crossing into the human realm. Humans are going missing and some are wounding up dead from drowning in the river.
Elowyn's mother is sick and none of the medicines have been working as she's getting worse. Elowyn is determined to find a cure and risks everything by crossing into the faerie realm in hopes of finding a cure. However, she is captured by the fae and thrown into a competition, similar to the Hunger Games, where there will only be one winner who survives. There are trials once a week and each trial is based upon one of the Seven Deadly Sins.
One of the fae that captured her is Talon Warwick. Mysterious, dark, and has his own motives, Elowyn is drawn to him when she know she shouldn't be and knows that she can't trust anyone while in the fae realm.
Elowyn will do whatever it takes to win and save her mother.
Austin does an amazing job with this book. Her world building is absolutely phenomenal and the Seven Deadly Sins concept was amazing. The book is pretty fast paced and I do wish it slowed down a little especially going through the trials. The book itself isn't too dark but during the trials and other scenes it was pretty dark which I think if it was a slower paced it would have been even better than it already was.
The prose used was beautiful and Austin's writing was very easy to read as well as it helped to fully understand the world that this story takes place in.
I did feel like the last several chapters went extremely fast and it felt a little rushed, especially the ending, however I still absolutely loved the book and the concept and I cannot wait to see what happens in book two!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️/5
The Hunger Games meets A Court of Thorns and Roses in this new dark fantasy novel by K.E. Austin.
Elowyn's world is divided. There's the faerie realm and the human realm. Both realms are separated by an iron-laden river that keeps the fae from crossing into the human realm. Humans are going missing and some are wounding up dead from drowning in the river.
Elowyn's mother is sick and none of the medicines have been working as she's getting worse. Elowyn is determined to find a cure and risks everything by crossing into the faerie realm in hopes of finding a cure. However, she is captured by the fae and thrown into a competition, similar to the Hunger Games, where there will only be one winner who survives. There are trials once a week and each trial is based upon one of the Seven Deadly Sins.
One of the fae that captured her is Talon Warwick. Mysterious, dark, and has his own motives, Elowyn is drawn to him when she know she shouldn't be and knows that she can't trust anyone while in the fae realm.
Elowyn will do whatever it takes to win and save her mother.
Austin does an amazing job with this book. Her world building is absolutely phenomenal and the Seven Deadly Sins concept was amazing. The book is pretty fast paced and I do wish it slowed down a little especially going through the trials. The book itself isn't too dark but during the trials and other scenes it was pretty dark which I think if it was a slower paced it would have been even better than it already was.
The prose used was beautiful and Austin's writing was very easy to read as well as it helped to fully understand the world that this story takes place in.
I did feel like the last several chapters went extremely fast and it felt a little rushed, especially the ending, however I still absolutely loved the book and the concept and I cannot wait to see what happens in book two!
February 24, 2024
I received an ARC in an exchange for an honest review and, as I waited for it to arrive, I've rarely been so excited over a book. K.E. Austin described this as a Hunger Games meets ACOTAR and I think that's an accurate description. Fans of S.B. Nova's A Kingdom of Nomads would also enjoy this book, since it shares a lot of similarities.
I really enjoyed the beautiful prose. Sometimes pretty prose can get too flowry and lengthy, but here it did not. In fact, the book was very fast-paced. I typically enjoy more medium-paced books, so I wouldn't have minded to have spent a little longer time in some of the scenes, but that is just a personal preference and not really a critique, but a sign that someone wants to spend more time with the caracters and in that world, right? There were a couple of plotholes, but but overall it's a fun YA book and a page-turner. It was hard to pull myself away from the book. I loved the world and the creatures that Austin created. Pipion was my favorite. I also liked the slow-burn, hate-to-friends-to-lovers romance. I definitely want to read the next book and I can't wait.
I really enjoyed the beautiful prose. Sometimes pretty prose can get too flowry and lengthy, but here it did not. In fact, the book was very fast-paced. I typically enjoy more medium-paced books, so I wouldn't have minded to have spent a little longer time in some of the scenes, but that is just a personal preference and not really a critique, but a sign that someone wants to spend more time with the caracters and in that world, right? There were a couple of plotholes, but but overall it's a fun YA book and a page-turner. It was hard to pull myself away from the book. I loved the world and the creatures that Austin created. Pipion was my favorite. I also liked the slow-burn, hate-to-friends-to-lovers romance. I definitely want to read the next book and I can't wait.
May 4, 2024
An exciting and gripping debut that will definitely be one of my top reads of 2024!!
"Death called to me like an old friend. A promise of peace. A promise to take away all my suffering, the torture I'd experience for weeks to come at the whim of the fae king."
From the minute I read the Blurb I knew this book was going to be good, I love it when I come across a debut author and the book gets me excited to read. A Fate so Wicked blew all my expectations away it's an amazing read, did I mention its a freakin DEBUT!!!!
"Violence looks good on you, firefly"
From the first to the last page I was completely lost to this amazing world and I honestly never wanted to leave, the storyline grips you and doesn't let go until the very end, I finished this in 1 day I just couldn't put it down 🙈, it's exciting, heartbreaking and witty with a perfectly written enemies to lovers romance.
"You were my speck if light in complete darkness. My firefly."
I absolutely loved A Fate so Wicked and I cant wait for the next book!
"Death called to me like an old friend. A promise of peace. A promise to take away all my suffering, the torture I'd experience for weeks to come at the whim of the fae king."
From the minute I read the Blurb I knew this book was going to be good, I love it when I come across a debut author and the book gets me excited to read. A Fate so Wicked blew all my expectations away it's an amazing read, did I mention its a freakin DEBUT!!!!
"Violence looks good on you, firefly"
From the first to the last page I was completely lost to this amazing world and I honestly never wanted to leave, the storyline grips you and doesn't let go until the very end, I finished this in 1 day I just couldn't put it down 🙈, it's exciting, heartbreaking and witty with a perfectly written enemies to lovers romance.
"You were my speck if light in complete darkness. My firefly."
I absolutely loved A Fate so Wicked and I cant wait for the next book!
March 9, 2024
I didn’t want to put this one down. Right up my alley with enemies to lovers and the inspiration the author took from other books I loved made it so much more enticing in my opinion. It was a slow start for me and maybe a tad chaotic as there was an info dump in the beginning, but after the main character crosses the river, this book consumed me. If you love fae, with a mixture of the hunger games or “trials” than I’m sure you’d love this one!
March 5, 2024
I received an ARC of this book and I’m so glad I did. (THANK YOU!) I’ve truthfully never read a fantasy style novel, so this was my first.
I was hooked from the first chapter and couldn’t put it down. I read through the whole book in a day, but held onto a few chapters as I didn’t want it to end.
Elowyn’s character was great - sassy and brave, but I fell in love with Talon. I do wish we had dual POV to get into his mind, but it was still wonderful. I was sad when the book ended. I truly hope there is a 2nd book that continues Elowyn’s story to take over the Fae kingdom as the princess heir.
I was hooked from the first chapter and couldn’t put it down. I read through the whole book in a day, but held onto a few chapters as I didn’t want it to end.
Elowyn’s character was great - sassy and brave, but I fell in love with Talon. I do wish we had dual POV to get into his mind, but it was still wonderful. I was sad when the book ended. I truly hope there is a 2nd book that continues Elowyn’s story to take over the Fae kingdom as the princess heir.
February 25, 2024
I received an e-arc copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
From the first sentence I was hooked. However, Elowyn is beyond frustrating. She acts impulsively and then regrets it, and says hurtful things and wants to immediately take it back. I really struggled to like her and that made me not enjoy the book as much as I had hoped. I truly couldn’t stand her until about 40% in. The end of the book was pretty good, leaving the story open for more books.
From the first sentence I was hooked. However, Elowyn is beyond frustrating. She acts impulsively and then regrets it, and says hurtful things and wants to immediately take it back. I really struggled to like her and that made me not enjoy the book as much as I had hoped. I truly couldn’t stand her until about 40% in. The end of the book was pretty good, leaving the story open for more books.
February 24, 2024
**I received this ARC in exchange of an honest review **
Elowyn’s story was so intriguing and captivating. She was so brave, determined and loving. There were times that her choices made me frustrated but there was always a reason.
I think I fell a little in love with her guard/trainer Talon. I almost liked his character more than Elowyn herself.
I really enjoyed this world and the characters. I just tore through the book and I look forward to reading more books by K.E. Austin.
Elowyn’s story was so intriguing and captivating. She was so brave, determined and loving. There were times that her choices made me frustrated but there was always a reason.
I think I fell a little in love with her guard/trainer Talon. I almost liked his character more than Elowyn herself.
I really enjoyed this world and the characters. I just tore through the book and I look forward to reading more books by K.E. Austin.
March 5, 2024
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶🌶
Tropes: Enemies to Lovers, Slow burn.
Ends on a cliffhanger.
"Your strength. Your fire. You were my speck of light in complete darkness. My firefly."
Holy canoli! This book is definitely going to be on my list for favorite reads of the year. This book, as well as Elowyn, really just called to me. The world building is great, and has depth, while being easy to understand and follow. The story flows well and there is just enough information dropped at different times to keep you intrigued.
Elowyn is a strong, resourceful girl who is stubborn to a fault. She's been taking care of her sick mother, and in desperate need for medicine, makes the dangerous journey into Fae lands to get a cure for her mother.
Talon is an arrogant, beautiful Fae male who is the strongest guard in the Fae kingdom. He clearly has his own agenda where Elowyn is concerned.
Talon and Elowyn definitely have the ETL thing down pat. She downright HATES him at first lol. Their bickering and banter had me giggling quite a few times. The chemistry between these two characters is off the charts, and despite the story being slow burn, every encounter between them felt worth it in the end.
The trials definitely gave Hunger Games vibes, and I'm talking book version. There was nothing pretty about them. Based on the 7 deadly sins, the trials were geared towards humanity's biggest weaknesses. They were violent, dark, and gritty. Elowyn's emotional state during the trails came off the page. I could feel her anxiety and fear at times. Definitely keeps you on the edge of your seat.
With the devastating blow dealt to Elowyn at the end, along with the new information she needs to process, I wonder what kind of Elowyn we will experience in the next book. I have a strong feeling we are going to be in for a dark ride.
"Remember what I said Elowyn. Don't let the darkness consume you."
*ARC Review*
Spice: 🌶🌶
Tropes: Enemies to Lovers, Slow burn.
Ends on a cliffhanger.
"Your strength. Your fire. You were my speck of light in complete darkness. My firefly."
Holy canoli! This book is definitely going to be on my list for favorite reads of the year. This book, as well as Elowyn, really just called to me. The world building is great, and has depth, while being easy to understand and follow. The story flows well and there is just enough information dropped at different times to keep you intrigued.
Elowyn is a strong, resourceful girl who is stubborn to a fault. She's been taking care of her sick mother, and in desperate need for medicine, makes the dangerous journey into Fae lands to get a cure for her mother.
Talon is an arrogant, beautiful Fae male who is the strongest guard in the Fae kingdom. He clearly has his own agenda where Elowyn is concerned.
Talon and Elowyn definitely have the ETL thing down pat. She downright HATES him at first lol. Their bickering and banter had me giggling quite a few times. The chemistry between these two characters is off the charts, and despite the story being slow burn, every encounter between them felt worth it in the end.
The trials definitely gave Hunger Games vibes, and I'm talking book version. There was nothing pretty about them. Based on the 7 deadly sins, the trials were geared towards humanity's biggest weaknesses. They were violent, dark, and gritty. Elowyn's emotional state during the trails came off the page. I could feel her anxiety and fear at times. Definitely keeps you on the edge of your seat.
With the devastating blow dealt to Elowyn at the end, along with the new information she needs to process, I wonder what kind of Elowyn we will experience in the next book. I have a strong feeling we are going to be in for a dark ride.
"Remember what I said Elowyn. Don't let the darkness consume you."
*ARC Review*
February 27, 2024
I received an Advanced Reader Copy of A Fate So Wicked before formal publishing date in exchange for an honest review.
I wanted to love this so much. From the outside, it has everything I love in a fantasy book. It has a strong FMC. It has a broody, mysterious, green-eyed fae MMC. It has deadly trials and courtly intrigue. It tries so, so hard to be Throne of Glass/ACOTAR meets Hunger Games, but it fell flat for me.
It started off slow to begin with. It's clear that Elowyn knows little about her heritage and her mother shuts down any conversation about it. Mother is very ill, and Elowyn discovers a magical cure. But Mother shuts down that conversation, too, and so Elowyn fails to heed that warning and tromps across the river to Faerway anyway.
In fact, Elowyn fails to heed EVERYONE'S warnings, including her own instincts. She is whiney, cries way too much, and honestly was annoying. Even though she trained with hot, broody Talon, none of the skills she learned really came into play. All the trials were too easy and she didn't show much skill. She wasn't that clever. And even when Talon tried to warn her about the less savory characters, she didn't listen.
And then let's talk about the romance with Talon. I liked him well enough, but Elowyn knew hardly anything about him. They sort of had chemistry, but there wasn't really anything to base their relationship or romance on. They spent a third of the book disgusted with each other, and then suddenly they couldn't keep their hands off each other. The build up just wasn't satisfying to me.
Plus they were both so childish. Elowyn kept flipping the middle finger, which seemed out of place for this world. And Talon fell out of character so much. And he used terminology that, again, did not fit the setting or his age. The dialogue was much more modern than you would expect for this type of fantasy world. I just couldn't get in the groove of their relationship.
The final trial also just annoyed me. Elowyn seemed to take Talon's words at face value even though she should know better. It could have been done better.
Another thing that killed this book for me was continuity. There were a lot of moments where actions and body placement didn't match the movement of the scene. Or there were instances where movement was implied but not written, so it made some scenes jerky and inelegant. There were times during the spicy scenes that I was confused how their mouths could be on so many places at once. It all could use some refinement.
I hate to be so critical, because this was obviously an important story for the author, but I wished there had been more depth to the story, more development with the characters. Elowyn dreamed about being told to "look within" so many times, yet her magic never manifested. At all. And nobody told her ANYTHING about her heritage. At all. I just found that strange. She should have been learning something about herself along the way, but it wasn't until the very end that we find out there was a reason she was there in the first place. The trials were repetitive, and so were Aeron and the insults. I just expected more, especially from the creatures like the wyvern. Why didn't it just fly Elowyn away?
I will say the ending was unexpected. But it could have been more poignant and impactful if the stakes had been higher.
Overall, I was just underwhelmed and disappointed. It has great bones, but it needs some refining. I give this 3.5 /5🌟.
I wanted to love this so much. From the outside, it has everything I love in a fantasy book. It has a strong FMC. It has a broody, mysterious, green-eyed fae MMC. It has deadly trials and courtly intrigue. It tries so, so hard to be Throne of Glass/ACOTAR meets Hunger Games, but it fell flat for me.
It started off slow to begin with. It's clear that Elowyn knows little about her heritage and her mother shuts down any conversation about it. Mother is very ill, and Elowyn discovers a magical cure. But Mother shuts down that conversation, too, and so Elowyn fails to heed that warning and tromps across the river to Faerway anyway.
In fact, Elowyn fails to heed EVERYONE'S warnings, including her own instincts. She is whiney, cries way too much, and honestly was annoying. Even though she trained with hot, broody Talon, none of the skills she learned really came into play. All the trials were too easy and she didn't show much skill. She wasn't that clever. And even when Talon tried to warn her about the less savory characters, she didn't listen.
And then let's talk about the romance with Talon. I liked him well enough, but Elowyn knew hardly anything about him. They sort of had chemistry, but there wasn't really anything to base their relationship or romance on. They spent a third of the book disgusted with each other, and then suddenly they couldn't keep their hands off each other. The build up just wasn't satisfying to me.
Plus they were both so childish. Elowyn kept flipping the middle finger, which seemed out of place for this world. And Talon fell out of character so much. And he used terminology that, again, did not fit the setting or his age. The dialogue was much more modern than you would expect for this type of fantasy world. I just couldn't get in the groove of their relationship.
The final trial also just annoyed me. Elowyn seemed to take Talon's words at face value even though she should know better. It could have been done better.
Another thing that killed this book for me was continuity. There were a lot of moments where actions and body placement didn't match the movement of the scene. Or there were instances where movement was implied but not written, so it made some scenes jerky and inelegant. There were times during the spicy scenes that I was confused how their mouths could be on so many places at once. It all could use some refinement.
I hate to be so critical, because this was obviously an important story for the author, but I wished there had been more depth to the story, more development with the characters. Elowyn dreamed about being told to "look within" so many times, yet her magic never manifested. At all. And nobody told her ANYTHING about her heritage. At all. I just found that strange. She should have been learning something about herself along the way, but it wasn't until the very end that we find out there was a reason she was there in the first place. The trials were repetitive, and so were Aeron and the insults. I just expected more, especially from the creatures like the wyvern. Why didn't it just fly Elowyn away?
I will say the ending was unexpected. But it could have been more poignant and impactful if the stakes had been higher.
Overall, I was just underwhelmed and disappointed. It has great bones, but it needs some refining. I give this 3.5 /5🌟.
November 12, 2024
I had the pleasure of reading this book prior to public release. Total read time was 12hrs and I’m a slow reader. This book felt like I flew through it. The 12hrs appeared and went in a poof and I didn’t want to put this book down.
This story captures the heartfelt struggles of a young lady doing everything she can to help the ones she loves. In a human meets fae world, this book features a love story that meets the realm of the Hunger Games. But there’s a major twist I’m not willing to reveal!
It was exciting to predict what happened throughout the book and it was fun, and not ALWAYS as predictable as I thought.
One of the reasons it only received 4 stars is because I feel that the last quarter of the book felt very rushed. I do know this is the first book in what is to be a series, but I felt that it could have been extended a lot farther in description and timeline. The first part of the book was well thought out and descriptive and the last portion felt like “okay I’m gonna finish my essay the night before it’s due”. Not at all saying it was written poorly, I just wanted MORE!
Also….. I could have totally done without Chapter 22! 😅
This story captures the heartfelt struggles of a young lady doing everything she can to help the ones she loves. In a human meets fae world, this book features a love story that meets the realm of the Hunger Games. But there’s a major twist I’m not willing to reveal!
It was exciting to predict what happened throughout the book and it was fun, and not ALWAYS as predictable as I thought.
One of the reasons it only received 4 stars is because I feel that the last quarter of the book felt very rushed. I do know this is the first book in what is to be a series, but I felt that it could have been extended a lot farther in description and timeline. The first part of the book was well thought out and descriptive and the last portion felt like “okay I’m gonna finish my essay the night before it’s due”. Not at all saying it was written poorly, I just wanted MORE!
Also….. I could have totally done without Chapter 22! 😅
February 28, 2024
I was selected as an ARC reader and was given a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
The banter and the chemistry in this book are beyond perfection! When I say that I couldn't stop reading this book, I mean that it had a hold on me. I couldn't get enough! I read it in under 2 days. I quickly fell in love with the main character and found myself so intrigued by what she was experiencing, and also was dying to see what happened as the story progressed. The world-building was so easy to understand, the author's writing was flawless, and it was such a quick and easy read. The plot was so unique, to say I enjoyed it is an understatement. I highly recommend this book, 5/5 🌟 I will be buying a physical copy of this book when it becomes available.
The banter and the chemistry in this book are beyond perfection! When I say that I couldn't stop reading this book, I mean that it had a hold on me. I couldn't get enough! I read it in under 2 days. I quickly fell in love with the main character and found myself so intrigued by what she was experiencing, and also was dying to see what happened as the story progressed. The world-building was so easy to understand, the author's writing was flawless, and it was such a quick and easy read. The plot was so unique, to say I enjoyed it is an understatement. I highly recommend this book, 5/5 🌟 I will be buying a physical copy of this book when it becomes available.
July 8, 2024
Huge thank you to K.E. Austin for letting me read her book. If you like enemies to lovers, Magic, fae, slow burns but also add in some mixtures of The Hunger Games as well then this would be a fun read for you fantasy reader. I did enjoy this book and I enjoyed Elowyn and Talon's characters and their chemistry together. There were times where some of things that Talon or even Elowyn said that would get on my nerves but I got over that and kept on reading. Looking forward to the next one!
March 3, 2024
3.75/5✨ | 1/5🌶️ | A new action packed fantasy with a building love story.
First off, I received this book as an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
I would like to say that I did not dislike this book there were moments that had me giggling, clenching my butt cheeks and gasping. However, I do feel like there were some undeveloped plot lines, pacing problems and some repetitive elements that became quite annoying.
This story follows Ellowyn who was “raised” as a human by a human mother. Her mother falls really ill when Elowyn discovers a magical elixir that can cure her mother. She goes on an epic quest to Faerway (which is forbidden for a bloody reason), to find this magical elixir. Despite the fact that she nearly dies crossing the god damn river she continues ahead. She thinks her mum is stubborn - this bloody FMC is one of the most stubborn self absorbed whiny characters I have ever read. There are moments when she is kind to “friends” but I felt her to be almost insufferable at times.
Anyway back to the synopsis. Elowyn makes it into Faerway and is instantly captured and held hostage by the King - a vicious thing with a hatred towards humans. He has captured humans over a period of time that have crossed into his lands and puts them through a series of trials. The trials started out too similar to hunger games in my opinion but I did enjoy the take on the 7 deadly sins. I do feel like the trials were little rushed and repetitive in the end. The “banter” between her and her enemies was infuriating to say the least.
Talon, oh my Talon. A tall dark and handsome fae with beautiful green eyes and the secret heart of gold is probably the best thing in this book. I wouldn’t say it was enemies to lovers but they definitely had their moments.
The pacing of the book was very fast paced and I would’ve loved some more world building and focus on other parts to give it a little more depth. The ending itself was ridiculously fast and gave me whiplash with how quickly it wrapped up.
Although it does set itself up for a sequel, I didn’t find myself desperately needing book 2 now. Maybe I needed a bigger cliffhanger. I don’t know.
All in all, it was a good book with potential. I would recommend this for those looking to get into fantasy but not for the fantasy diehards.
First off, I received this book as an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
I would like to say that I did not dislike this book there were moments that had me giggling, clenching my butt cheeks and gasping. However, I do feel like there were some undeveloped plot lines, pacing problems and some repetitive elements that became quite annoying.
This story follows Ellowyn who was “raised” as a human by a human mother. Her mother falls really ill when Elowyn discovers a magical elixir that can cure her mother. She goes on an epic quest to Faerway (which is forbidden for a bloody reason), to find this magical elixir. Despite the fact that she nearly dies crossing the god damn river she continues ahead. She thinks her mum is stubborn - this bloody FMC is one of the most stubborn self absorbed whiny characters I have ever read. There are moments when she is kind to “friends” but I felt her to be almost insufferable at times.
Anyway back to the synopsis. Elowyn makes it into Faerway and is instantly captured and held hostage by the King - a vicious thing with a hatred towards humans. He has captured humans over a period of time that have crossed into his lands and puts them through a series of trials. The trials started out too similar to hunger games in my opinion but I did enjoy the take on the 7 deadly sins. I do feel like the trials were little rushed and repetitive in the end. The “banter” between her and her enemies was infuriating to say the least.
Talon, oh my Talon. A tall dark and handsome fae with beautiful green eyes and the secret heart of gold is probably the best thing in this book. I wouldn’t say it was enemies to lovers but they definitely had their moments.
The pacing of the book was very fast paced and I would’ve loved some more world building and focus on other parts to give it a little more depth. The ending itself was ridiculously fast and gave me whiplash with how quickly it wrapped up.
Although it does set itself up for a sequel, I didn’t find myself desperately needing book 2 now. Maybe I needed a bigger cliffhanger. I don’t know.
All in all, it was a good book with potential. I would recommend this for those looking to get into fantasy but not for the fantasy diehards.
February 27, 2024
Thank you so much to K.E. Austin for sending me this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Your favorite Fae fantasy book meets Hunger Games in the first book in a new series by K.E. Austin! This book really grabbed my attention from the get-go. In a world where human and fae are separated by a river, Elowyn sets out on a task to retrieve a medicine made by a flower only accessible in Faerway for her dying mother. She gets captured shortly after crossing the river and is held prisoner and forced to compete in seven deadly trials based around the seven deadly sins.
I can’t wait to see how the rest of this series carries out! I found some parts to be predictable, but I think that comes from reading so much fantasy romance. Elowyn is a girl who doesn’t know her father, and it’s been kept a secret from her for her whole life. Of course, the truth gets revealed in this book and I definitely saw it coming, but that doesn’t take away from quality of the book for me! It was paced perfectly, I never found myself bored.
This does end on a cliffhanger - but not a terrible one (I’m looking at you Rebecca Yarros).
All in all, I think this is going to be a very fun and exciting series!
Your favorite Fae fantasy book meets Hunger Games in the first book in a new series by K.E. Austin! This book really grabbed my attention from the get-go. In a world where human and fae are separated by a river, Elowyn sets out on a task to retrieve a medicine made by a flower only accessible in Faerway for her dying mother. She gets captured shortly after crossing the river and is held prisoner and forced to compete in seven deadly trials based around the seven deadly sins.
I can’t wait to see how the rest of this series carries out! I found some parts to be predictable, but I think that comes from reading so much fantasy romance. Elowyn is a girl who doesn’t know her father, and it’s been kept a secret from her for her whole life. Of course, the truth gets revealed in this book and I definitely saw it coming, but that doesn’t take away from quality of the book for me! It was paced perfectly, I never found myself bored.
This does end on a cliffhanger - but not a terrible one (I’m looking at you Rebecca Yarros).
All in all, I think this is going to be a very fun and exciting series!
February 28, 2024
This book captivated me from the moment I read its description, before even receiving the e- ARC for an honest review. And when I did, it definately drew me in from the very first few lines. Quite a few chores were delayed to "read just one more page"!
It is well written with a consistent flow and the pace is just right...not to slow but not too fast either. I liked the fact that attention is paid to every detail and if a question arises, it is answered in the next few lines. Apart from perhaps a bit in the end, which obviously will have answers relayed in book 2. Nothing that happens is without reason!
I savoured quite a few intense moments and was transported to time and place by the vivid descriptions. I enjoyed the subtle hints of what was to come, allowing me to guess...the inevitable!
For those that enjoy fantasy world books with strong (without always realising it) female characters, this is a must read! Thoroughly enjoyed it! Can not wait for the next instalment....is there an ARC for the ARC???
Thank you for providing the ARC!
It is well written with a consistent flow and the pace is just right...not to slow but not too fast either. I liked the fact that attention is paid to every detail and if a question arises, it is answered in the next few lines. Apart from perhaps a bit in the end, which obviously will have answers relayed in book 2. Nothing that happens is without reason!
I savoured quite a few intense moments and was transported to time and place by the vivid descriptions. I enjoyed the subtle hints of what was to come, allowing me to guess...the inevitable!
For those that enjoy fantasy world books with strong (without always realising it) female characters, this is a must read! Thoroughly enjoyed it! Can not wait for the next instalment....is there an ARC for the ARC???
Thank you for providing the ARC!
February 24, 2024
I was provided with an Advanced Readers copy of this mountain. If we could give 1/2 star ratings, I would rate this between 3.5 and 3.75. I truly enjoyed the book and found it very entertaining. It was a little predictable but that could stem from me reading a lot of books from this genre. There were times I forgot what book I was reading and confused it with other books because of similarities. I really liked the character of Talon. Usually at the beginning of a book, takes time to get to the meat of the story and I'm bored until it gets further into the story. This story had me hooked from the first page. I'm hoping for a second book because I have so many questions that I'm hoping to get answered. I would recommend this book
February 27, 2024
Hungers Games meets Fantasy
Exiled lady in waiting & she was the bastard daughter
Elowyns mother is sick and dying
She leaves to faerway where the fae live, to get a plant that can help her mom
Captured by the Fae Has to compete in a 7 deadly sins trial. Whoever wins, gets to leave. She meets a Fae Guard, Talon who picked her as his contender in the trials. He is to train her and help her win.
⭐️ Badass FMC
⭐️ Human x Fae
⭐️ Enemies to Lovers
Truly, obsessed is not a strong enough word for this book! My only complaint is I have to wait for the other books! I give it a SOLID 5/5 stars!
Thank you K.E Austin & publishers for giving an arc in exchange for an honest review.
Exiled lady in waiting & she was the bastard daughter
Elowyns mother is sick and dying
She leaves to faerway where the fae live, to get a plant that can help her mom
Captured by the Fae Has to compete in a 7 deadly sins trial. Whoever wins, gets to leave. She meets a Fae Guard, Talon who picked her as his contender in the trials. He is to train her and help her win.
⭐️ Badass FMC
⭐️ Human x Fae
⭐️ Enemies to Lovers
Truly, obsessed is not a strong enough word for this book! My only complaint is I have to wait for the other books! I give it a SOLID 5/5 stars!
Thank you K.E Austin & publishers for giving an arc in exchange for an honest review.
February 29, 2024
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Hunger Games plus ACOTAR indeed! The writing style was really beautiful I have to say; maybe it’s just my personal preference at play, but after this I’d read anything K.E. Austin wrote, including historical nonfiction at this point.
For the first half of the book I *was* worried that it’d just be a cookie-cutter Faerie Hunger Games, but once K.E. decided to step on our necks she never let up! The ending of this book had enough resolution yet major twists that she created SO much amazing possibility for the future of this story. I can’t wait to see where she takes us with this. Will definitely be buying a hard copy on release day.
Hunger Games plus ACOTAR indeed! The writing style was really beautiful I have to say; maybe it’s just my personal preference at play, but after this I’d read anything K.E. Austin wrote, including historical nonfiction at this point.
For the first half of the book I *was* worried that it’d just be a cookie-cutter Faerie Hunger Games, but once K.E. decided to step on our necks she never let up! The ending of this book had enough resolution yet major twists that she created SO much amazing possibility for the future of this story. I can’t wait to see where she takes us with this. Will definitely be buying a hard copy on release day.
February 27, 2024
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I absolutely LOVED this book and was pleasantly surprised with how much it hooked me from the very beginning. The pace was great. The stakes were high. The banter was fantastic.
It was fairly predictable and was very similar to others in this genre, however, I feel this way about a lot of romantasy books I read. Probably because I'm obsessed and have read an exuberant amount. 🤣
I'm super excited for this to be officially released and to see where the series goes.
I absolutely LOVED this book and was pleasantly surprised with how much it hooked me from the very beginning. The pace was great. The stakes were high. The banter was fantastic.
It was fairly predictable and was very similar to others in this genre, however, I feel this way about a lot of romantasy books I read. Probably because I'm obsessed and have read an exuberant amount. 🤣
I'm super excited for this to be officially released and to see where the series goes.
March 1, 2024
I recieved this book as a free e-arc in exchange for a honest review.
I was recently in a reading slump and this was the perfect fast paced pick-me-up to bring me back to reading. The author mentions it bringing the energy of Court of Thorns and Roses and Hunger Games and I feel like it was a perfect mix of those two stories while bringing unique factors and a great story to the table. I really enjoyed this and feel like the only thing that would have made it better is if it were longer with more character development. I truly loved how it kept me entertained for the entirety of its 400 pages. Gives off very cozy fantasy vibes while still having the drama, violence, and intrigue of a fantasy novel. Great start to the series!
I was recently in a reading slump and this was the perfect fast paced pick-me-up to bring me back to reading. The author mentions it bringing the energy of Court of Thorns and Roses and Hunger Games and I feel like it was a perfect mix of those two stories while bringing unique factors and a great story to the table. I really enjoyed this and feel like the only thing that would have made it better is if it were longer with more character development. I truly loved how it kept me entertained for the entirety of its 400 pages. Gives off very cozy fantasy vibes while still having the drama, violence, and intrigue of a fantasy novel. Great start to the series!
July 5, 2025
This book was great. I wasn't exactly sure at the beginning because our main characters Elowyn is so darn stubborn and makes not so great decisions, but so much comes out of it. I loved the pacing around 60% in, really grew to love our main girl, and the romantic storyline in this was lovely. I never really knew where this book was heading, but I loved that, kept me reading page after page. I hope there's a second one in the works!
February 24, 2024
I received and e-copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I was in a reading slump, read the description of this book and hoped it would help me get out of my slump, and did it ever!
The author said it was a mix of ACOTAR and the hunger games and that’s exactly what it is! The world building and character building was wonderful and the story was captivating. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and cannot wait to see what happens next!
I was in a reading slump, read the description of this book and hoped it would help me get out of my slump, and did it ever!
The author said it was a mix of ACOTAR and the hunger games and that’s exactly what it is! The world building and character building was wonderful and the story was captivating. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and cannot wait to see what happens next!
February 25, 2024
I loved this book! It had plot twists, suspense, danger, all with a bit of romance in there. I was crying multiple times during this book. If you like acotar you will like this book as well. I can’t wait for the next one to come out!
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