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Secrets & Curses of Exile
“You are a monster, Thea. The prophet told the realm of your monstrosity. You will crumble kingdoms. You will kill kings. But the real question is, which kingdom will you be a monster for?”
All Thea wants is freedom and a sense of belonging. Imprisoned in Exile along with all of the other elite magic users by order of the ruthless Crimson King, she can't fathom a life beyond her confinement, let alone remember the life she had before it. Her only respite from Exile is her dreams, which provides its own set of challenges as her memories lie just beyond her grasp. The mysterious figure that meets her in her dreams and claims to be her friend isn't much help to her either.
As things in Exile go from bad to worse, Thea seizes an opportunity to enter a competition that could free not only her from the shackles of Exile, but could also mean salvation for all elite magic users. She's desperate enough to do it, even though it means putting herself directly in the path of the Crimson King. Thea anticipates conflict with the King, but even she couldn't predict the meddling of the brooding Captain of the Crimson Guard and contestants who will stop at nothing to see her fail.
As the trials and the secrets of her past collide, Thea struggles to understand her new reality. Thea must find a way to unravel her past and win the trials or condemn herself and everyone in Exile to death.
All Thea wants is freedom and a sense of belonging. Imprisoned in Exile along with all of the other elite magic users by order of the ruthless Crimson King, she can't fathom a life beyond her confinement, let alone remember the life she had before it. Her only respite from Exile is her dreams, which provides its own set of challenges as her memories lie just beyond her grasp. The mysterious figure that meets her in her dreams and claims to be her friend isn't much help to her either.
As things in Exile go from bad to worse, Thea seizes an opportunity to enter a competition that could free not only her from the shackles of Exile, but could also mean salvation for all elite magic users. She's desperate enough to do it, even though it means putting herself directly in the path of the Crimson King. Thea anticipates conflict with the King, but even she couldn't predict the meddling of the brooding Captain of the Crimson Guard and contestants who will stop at nothing to see her fail.
As the trials and the secrets of her past collide, Thea struggles to understand her new reality. Thea must find a way to unravel her past and win the trials or condemn herself and everyone in Exile to death.
472 pages, Paperback
Published May 3, 2024
667 people are currently reading
3376 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 190 reviews
July 15, 2024
Summary: In this gripping fantasy novel, Thea, branded as a monster by prophecy, seeks freedom and belonging in a world where elite magic users are imprisoned by the ruthless Crimson King. When a rare opportunity arises, she enters a set of trials to liberate herself and her fellow prisoners. Facing the Crimson King, Thea’s quest reveals dark secrets and forgotten memories. Perfect for all fantasy / romance readers! You will be captivated by the intense trials, magical intrigue, and passionate undercurrents driving Thea's struggle for redemption and love.
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Thoughts: This book has so many twists and turns, I truly couldn’t put it down. The banter between the characters is so fun, and a bit on the spicy side. The ending had me at a loss for words - my jaw was on the floor! I am so excited for the next book in this series and to jump back into this world!
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Genre: Adult Fantasy / Romance
Pacing: Medium / Fast
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Star Ratings:
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Characters: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Writing Style: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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Thoughts: This book has so many twists and turns, I truly couldn’t put it down. The banter between the characters is so fun, and a bit on the spicy side. The ending had me at a loss for words - my jaw was on the floor! I am so excited for the next book in this series and to jump back into this world!
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Genre: Adult Fantasy / Romance
Pacing: Medium / Fast
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Star Ratings:
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Characters: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Writing Style: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
February 23, 2026
What just happened ???!!!!! No like truly. WHAT. This series is like CRACK. Onto book 2 !! 🏃♀️
June 18, 2024
I wanted to love this, but between the grammatical errors and the random shift, I just couldn’t. There were many great elements; I think the help of a good editor could remedy many of my problems with the book.
February 26, 2026
I’m immediately picking up book two and that’s all I have to say. 5 stars.
August 29, 2024
Thea and others with Elite magic, have been put into Exile by the King of Crimson. There is a shadow boundary, which means no one can get in or out.. Except Thea, after trying to end her life by stepping through the boundary, Thea realises she can come and go.
Thea steals food and supplies for Exile, but whilst out in a town, she sees a flyer for a wish to be granted by the King, if contestants complete the trials.
Thea decides she is going to go, leaving her friends behind with the promise that she will use her wish to free them from Exile.
When Thea makes it to Crimson, she sees a familiar face.. a guard dressed in a black uniform, a man who regularly visits her in her dreams and calls her Little Viper.
The Guards name is Cassius and Thea feels this pull towards him, which she just can’t explain.
Thea starts to make her way through the trials, but little does she know that the trials are the least of her worries.. because the closer Thea gets to the end of the trials, the more secrets, betrayal and manipulation she is about to uncover.
This book has such a unique storyline which kept me hooked from the beginning, I struggled to put it down, constantly wanting to know what happened next!
It had so many twists and turns, literally giving me mental & emotional whiplash 🫣
I liked the magic system and how there were different levels of fae, the different magic that they held and I found it fascinating reading about Thea’s magic.
I enjoyed Thea’s character but really did feel bad for her throughout the book, as she was so confused on who she was and negative feelings about herself. My heart broke for her need to feel wanted and loved after having no memory of her life before Exile.
Cassius was our typical MMC who was a grump blowing hot and cold, but we knew he was secretly into our FMC! I loved how he reassured Thea and comforted her, always trying to check in from the sidelines whilst trying to protect her.
The ending of this book had me shook!! I can’t believe it ended that way 🫣 I wasn’t expecting it at all!
I kind of have an idea where it will go in book 2, but I am so excited and want to know if I’m right or wrong 🙈
I kindly received this book as an arc, however all opinions are my own 🖤
Thea steals food and supplies for Exile, but whilst out in a town, she sees a flyer for a wish to be granted by the King, if contestants complete the trials.
Thea decides she is going to go, leaving her friends behind with the promise that she will use her wish to free them from Exile.
When Thea makes it to Crimson, she sees a familiar face.. a guard dressed in a black uniform, a man who regularly visits her in her dreams and calls her Little Viper.
The Guards name is Cassius and Thea feels this pull towards him, which she just can’t explain.
Thea starts to make her way through the trials, but little does she know that the trials are the least of her worries.. because the closer Thea gets to the end of the trials, the more secrets, betrayal and manipulation she is about to uncover.
This book has such a unique storyline which kept me hooked from the beginning, I struggled to put it down, constantly wanting to know what happened next!
It had so many twists and turns, literally giving me mental & emotional whiplash 🫣
I liked the magic system and how there were different levels of fae, the different magic that they held and I found it fascinating reading about Thea’s magic.
I enjoyed Thea’s character but really did feel bad for her throughout the book, as she was so confused on who she was and negative feelings about herself. My heart broke for her need to feel wanted and loved after having no memory of her life before Exile.
Cassius was our typical MMC who was a grump blowing hot and cold, but we knew he was secretly into our FMC! I loved how he reassured Thea and comforted her, always trying to check in from the sidelines whilst trying to protect her.
The ending of this book had me shook!! I can’t believe it ended that way 🫣 I wasn’t expecting it at all!
I kind of have an idea where it will go in book 2, but I am so excited and want to know if I’m right or wrong 🙈
I kindly received this book as an arc, however all opinions are my own 🖤
March 10, 2024
This book was amazing. The more a read the more questions I had. I couldn’t put it down I needed all my questions answered. This book kept me guessing the whole time that is what I loved most about it. The relationship between Thea and Cassius did not disappoint. The ending literally I can’t even think about it. The next book cannot come soon enough
February 26, 2026
Binged this one!! literally couldn’t put it down!!
the mind fuck that this book is… INSANE. i had no idea what was going on the whole time, i didn’t know who to trust, and i didn’t know what to believe 😩😩 but that was the lure of the whole book and it definitely keeps you invested as a reader!
this one has an amnesia trope, games and trials, betrayal, magical powers, fae, and more and ugh just ate it up!
would def recommend!!
the mind fuck that this book is… INSANE. i had no idea what was going on the whole time, i didn’t know who to trust, and i didn’t know what to believe 😩😩 but that was the lure of the whole book and it definitely keeps you invested as a reader!
this one has an amnesia trope, games and trials, betrayal, magical powers, fae, and more and ugh just ate it up!
would def recommend!!
March 11, 2024
This was my first ever ARC book, and I have to say I’m deeply glad it was this book.
The beginning was slightly slow going but hooked me in almost immediately once it began picking up more.
I was kept shocked at every turn it took, and kept reading to learn more about Thea as she learned about herself. Thea, herself, was a beautifully written character who was deeply confused and overly-cautious, and rightfully so. I felt as if everything she learned, I was also learning with her about the world that this story was set in.
The ending of this story had my stomach in knots as I tried to decipher every word, looking for clues about who was lying, and why they would have been lying in the first place.
The second installment cannot come fast enough for me! If you pick up any fae romantasy book soon, make SURE it is this one.
The beginning was slightly slow going but hooked me in almost immediately once it began picking up more.
I was kept shocked at every turn it took, and kept reading to learn more about Thea as she learned about herself. Thea, herself, was a beautifully written character who was deeply confused and overly-cautious, and rightfully so. I felt as if everything she learned, I was also learning with her about the world that this story was set in.
The ending of this story had my stomach in knots as I tried to decipher every word, looking for clues about who was lying, and why they would have been lying in the first place.
The second installment cannot come fast enough for me! If you pick up any fae romantasy book soon, make SURE it is this one.
August 29, 2024
I had the honor of reading this as an ARC, and I’m not okay…
It’s a spicy mix of the hunger games, divergent, the maze runner and acotar. It was exactly what I want in a book.
And yet, I’m heartbroken… Throughout the book I had so many questions, many of which I didn’t get an answer to (in fact, I only got more and more questions as the book progressed). It was such a rollercoaster - when you started believing in one thing, oh wait, no THIS is the truth… or maybe not? At the end of the book I didn’t know what to believe anymore, I was on the edge of my seat the whole time! Normally I can predict what’s going to happen to a certain degree, but this book made me a confused mess 🙃 plot twist on plot twist, and then there’s the end - I just NEED to know what happens next… Shay I applaud you, but also; who hurt you?? 😭❤️
It’s a spicy mix of the hunger games, divergent, the maze runner and acotar. It was exactly what I want in a book.
And yet, I’m heartbroken… Throughout the book I had so many questions, many of which I didn’t get an answer to (in fact, I only got more and more questions as the book progressed). It was such a rollercoaster - when you started believing in one thing, oh wait, no THIS is the truth… or maybe not? At the end of the book I didn’t know what to believe anymore, I was on the edge of my seat the whole time! Normally I can predict what’s going to happen to a certain degree, but this book made me a confused mess 🙃 plot twist on plot twist, and then there’s the end - I just NEED to know what happens next… Shay I applaud you, but also; who hurt you?? 😭❤️
March 23, 2024
Man sitt med spørsmål gjennom hele boka. Både om ka som skjer videre og ka som har skjed tidligere. Spicen e amazing og sluttn etterlot mæ gråtende og sint. Glede mæ te bok nr. 2!
February 17, 2026
*4 1/2 start rating*
Wow! All those hidden truths and secrets led to a nuclear bomb in the end...
To wake up one day and not know who you are and have so many different stories be told to you and then realizing people knew who you were is a hard pill to swallow. And then not knowing who is actually speaking the truth is even worse!
Thea sounds like she was unbreakable and then to see her try and figure out who she was and who she's supposed to be is not easy to watch.
Cassius is a big question mark. I have no idea who I'm rooting for and what is actually happening. I can tell there's still more than meets the eye but trying to untangle all the lies and the truth is actually not as easy as I thought it would be.
I'm very excited to continue the series. I want to unravel it all!
Wow! All those hidden truths and secrets led to a nuclear bomb in the end...
To wake up one day and not know who you are and have so many different stories be told to you and then realizing people knew who you were is a hard pill to swallow. And then not knowing who is actually speaking the truth is even worse!
Thea sounds like she was unbreakable and then to see her try and figure out who she was and who she's supposed to be is not easy to watch.
Cassius is a big question mark. I have no idea who I'm rooting for and what is actually happening. I can tell there's still more than meets the eye but trying to untangle all the lies and the truth is actually not as easy as I thought it would be.
I'm very excited to continue the series. I want to unravel it all!
February 20, 2025
Genuinely impressed with this book. I’m not going to lie, Thea gets a little annoying sometimes but I still enjoyed her character. She’s obviously just looking for love and it affects her decisions and thoughts.
The twists have me so emotional and, like Thea, I genuinely cannot tell who to trust. Some times I’m obsessed with Cassius, sometimes I hate him.
I was sucked into this story and I’m already foaming at the mouth to start the next book. I know some people mentioned typos, but I really didn’t see any, maybe I was too engrossed with the plot. Either way, goddamn this was a good read.
The twists have me so emotional and, like Thea, I genuinely cannot tell who to trust. Some times I’m obsessed with Cassius, sometimes I hate him.
I was sucked into this story and I’m already foaming at the mouth to start the next book. I know some people mentioned typos, but I really didn’t see any, maybe I was too engrossed with the plot. Either way, goddamn this was a good read.
May 5, 2024
In this addictive first book in the series we meet Thea. Our strong minded FMC, who has faced many trials and tribulations sadly her memory loss means many events she simply can’t remember. We follow Thea on her quest for vengeance to free her friends from Exile.
Cue Cassian, I still can’t decide what to make of him. Is he friend or foe? Shay builds a magical world, with a plot full of twists and turns as we follow Thea in her quest.
Can’t wait to read the next book!
I leave this review voluntarily after being lucky enough to receive an ARC.
Cue Cassian, I still can’t decide what to make of him. Is he friend or foe? Shay builds a magical world, with a plot full of twists and turns as we follow Thea in her quest.
Can’t wait to read the next book!
I leave this review voluntarily after being lucky enough to receive an ARC.
January 8, 2025
The ultimate betrayal. The ending left me wanting to leave work and lay in bed.
Love the FMC and her darkness, I giggle every time she shows no mercy. One thing about Thea, don’t call her bluff. I had a rollercoaster of emotions for the MMC, but after the ending I officially hate him. Not sure how Cassius can come back from betraying Thea so deeply and spewing such hate-filled words.
Loved the plot and all the twists and turns, I was left absolutely rocked by some of them.
Very curious to see how this all plays out. Will Thea get her happy ending? I fucking hope so after all the bullshit she’s been through.
Love the FMC and her darkness, I giggle every time she shows no mercy. One thing about Thea, don’t call her bluff. I had a rollercoaster of emotions for the MMC, but after the ending I officially hate him. Not sure how Cassius can come back from betraying Thea so deeply and spewing such hate-filled words.
Loved the plot and all the twists and turns, I was left absolutely rocked by some of them.
Very curious to see how this all plays out. Will Thea get her happy ending? I fucking hope so after all the bullshit she’s been through.
March 12, 2024
4.5 ⭐️ 3 🌶️
I had the pleasure of reading this arc; after watching the author for some time on TikTok and I must say- wow. It’s been such a privilege. I really enjoyed the characters- the dark and moody/angry FMC and the shadow daddy MMC. The spice was spicing and the plot was thick with twists & turns!! Well done!! Please read it when available May 3rd 2024!
I had the pleasure of reading this arc; after watching the author for some time on TikTok and I must say- wow. It’s been such a privilege. I really enjoyed the characters- the dark and moody/angry FMC and the shadow daddy MMC. The spice was spicing and the plot was thick with twists & turns!! Well done!! Please read it when available May 3rd 2024!
September 2, 2024
lost memories and love
This book was a whirlwind of back and forths that were never expected at each one. The ending was such a shock and I can’t wait to see what happens for Thea in the next book
This book was a whirlwind of back and forths that were never expected at each one. The ending was such a shock and I can’t wait to see what happens for Thea in the next book
January 3, 2025
This book was absolutely amazing! I couldn’t put it down and ended up reading the entire thing in one sitting. It was so captivating, and I experienced a whirlwind of emotions throughout. Not to mention, the MMC had me in a total chokehold with some of the things he was saying 🥵.
February 22, 2026
Shay, you have broken my heart.
March 20, 2025
Ravi’s book was amazing. From the beginning to the end you question everything and then questioning it again. I was so invested in every twist and turn of Thea and Cassius’ story.
February 19, 2026
So off the bat I struggled with this because the writing felt quite juvenile/simple but I pushed through because I liked the plot concept but I think it was just poorly executed. Thea was so easily manipulate and insecure it was actually quite annoying and Cassius was just a dick.
April 20, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I would like to start off with thanking Shay for an arc of this book. This is the book for you if you're looking for a story with:
✅️ Fae
✅️ Trials
✅️ Enemies/ lovers
✅️ Mystery
✅️ Twists and turns
This is the debut book in the series, and I loved it. You meet Thea, who is a fae who has elite magic and is trapped with other elite wielders in a place called Exile by the Crimson king. Thea has no memory of who she is but has the ability to sneak through the boundary to Exile.
An opportunity presents itself, which could mean that Thea could free everyone in Exile. She takes part in some trials, which are held by the King and his guard, where we meet Cassius, captain of the guard. He's dark and brooding and seems to dislike Thea.
As the trials go on, feelings get involved, and Thea starts to get flashes of memory. We watch as her relationships develop while she simultaneously tries to piece together who she was before.
This story was brilliantly written, and I constantly went back and forth as to who I think she can and can't trust! Oh, and the ending...... I NEED the next book already to see what happens next.
I would like to start off with thanking Shay for an arc of this book. This is the book for you if you're looking for a story with:
✅️ Fae
✅️ Trials
✅️ Enemies/ lovers
✅️ Mystery
✅️ Twists and turns
This is the debut book in the series, and I loved it. You meet Thea, who is a fae who has elite magic and is trapped with other elite wielders in a place called Exile by the Crimson king. Thea has no memory of who she is but has the ability to sneak through the boundary to Exile.
An opportunity presents itself, which could mean that Thea could free everyone in Exile. She takes part in some trials, which are held by the King and his guard, where we meet Cassius, captain of the guard. He's dark and brooding and seems to dislike Thea.
As the trials go on, feelings get involved, and Thea starts to get flashes of memory. We watch as her relationships develop while she simultaneously tries to piece together who she was before.
This story was brilliantly written, and I constantly went back and forth as to who I think she can and can't trust! Oh, and the ending...... I NEED the next book already to see what happens next.
May 4, 2024
4.5✨
I read this book and felt like it could easily keep you intrigued! There were a few grammatical mistakes, I’m not basing anything off of that though. The plot is easy to follow. Spice is right where I want it when it comes to stories like this! I would pick up the second one. You add on a shadow daddy and I’m on it! Strong FMC will add in more for me. I only knocked half a star because the middle was kinda where it fully picked up for me.
Thanks Shay for generously providing an ARC of this book! My opinions are my own and I absolutely spill my truth about it. ♥️
I read this book and felt like it could easily keep you intrigued! There were a few grammatical mistakes, I’m not basing anything off of that though. The plot is easy to follow. Spice is right where I want it when it comes to stories like this! I would pick up the second one. You add on a shadow daddy and I’m on it! Strong FMC will add in more for me. I only knocked half a star because the middle was kinda where it fully picked up for me.
Thanks Shay for generously providing an ARC of this book! My opinions are my own and I absolutely spill my truth about it. ♥️
April 1, 2024
TLDR: 5 Star ARC read let down by lack of editing
Let me preface this by saying the story is excellent. The plot twists are fabulous. The right level of spice. It’s got all the makings of an incredible series.
But…
This hasn’t seen an editor and it shows.
There are lots of spelling/grammar errors, and early on it really put me off (it took me 3 weeks to read this). Once I got past those, I devoured 300+ pages in a couple of days. Usually I will DNF an ARC if it’s not for me.
I felt like some of the dialogues between the enemies to lovers gave me whiplash but it does all become clear later on.
Some of the horse scenes are a bit impractical. And I think the horses could have been named.
I would’ve liked to have seen some scenes expanded on and the characters fleshed out a little more at the beginning.
Some phrases used left me scratching my head as they didn’t 100% make sense.
All of the above would be remedied with an editor.
I have fed back to the author as I do really think this has potential and I look forward to a sequel as I’m now invested! I simply must know what happens next.
Let me preface this by saying the story is excellent. The plot twists are fabulous. The right level of spice. It’s got all the makings of an incredible series.
But…
This hasn’t seen an editor and it shows.
There are lots of spelling/grammar errors, and early on it really put me off (it took me 3 weeks to read this). Once I got past those, I devoured 300+ pages in a couple of days. Usually I will DNF an ARC if it’s not for me.
I felt like some of the dialogues between the enemies to lovers gave me whiplash but it does all become clear later on.
Some of the horse scenes are a bit impractical. And I think the horses could have been named.
I would’ve liked to have seen some scenes expanded on and the characters fleshed out a little more at the beginning.
Some phrases used left me scratching my head as they didn’t 100% make sense.
All of the above would be remedied with an editor.
I have fed back to the author as I do really think this has potential and I look forward to a sequel as I’m now invested! I simply must know what happens next.
April 16, 2024
This was my first ever ARC read, and I am delighted it was. I wish it didn't take me a month to get to it! The book was slow to start, but I was happy I powered through. The characters, the twists, and the turns had me hooked. The spice was the perfect amount for me. I'd give it a 3🌶🌶🌶 which is what I prefer.
I'm very interested to see how these characters' stories develop further.
Can't wait to get the official released copy to have another read when it's finalised and less errors that I am aware of comes with an ARC.
I'm very interested to see how these characters' stories develop further.
Can't wait to get the official released copy to have another read when it's finalised and less errors that I am aware of comes with an ARC.
March 13, 2025
Whaaat. Are we all reading the same book? I had to stop right after 50%.
I was so excited the first 10-15%. As soon as the “trials” started EVERYTHING fell flat. Every conversation ending with an intense statement and “then he left.”
So many plot holes, jumping all around, characters that were not well formed and lacked any depth. I have to stop. And I’m BUMMED because honestly - the idea, the potential world, the plot seemed SO COOL, but unfortunately this is not well written.
I was so excited the first 10-15%. As soon as the “trials” started EVERYTHING fell flat. Every conversation ending with an intense statement and “then he left.”
So many plot holes, jumping all around, characters that were not well formed and lacked any depth. I have to stop. And I’m BUMMED because honestly - the idea, the potential world, the plot seemed SO COOL, but unfortunately this is not well written.
April 19, 2024
"I would wait for all eternity if it meant I got to hold you like this for only one night"
Good golly, miss molly!! This book had me in a choke hold!! Romantasy, fae with varying levels of magic, tournament of champions, exiled group seeking revenge, waring kingdoms, a curse, betrayal, angst, enemies to lovers....there really isn't a stone left unturned in this one!
The storyline follows a fae women who is exiled from her kingdom with the rest of the "infinite" powered fae. Thea struggles to find a way to save her fellow outcasts as they slowly starve, when she gets wind of a chance tournament that could change their fate. Determined to do whatever it takes to help her friends, Thea heads back into the hornet's nest to join. Her journey is complicated by ongoing amnesia, which means she has no idea if people will recognize her for the exiled fae she is or not. Throughout the story, her memories start to come back in bits and pieces. Unfortunately, they never seem to add up and the stories others tell her also seem to have holes. She is caught between wanting to learn the truth about her past and being forced to doubt everyone around her. Is anyone telling her the truth?
I found the book to be incredibly exciting, captivating and enjoyable. The beginning was a little slow, but that was also great for world building and setting the scene. By 20% in I felt the book became very fast-paced and action packed. After 50% - it was like the hits just didn't stop coming! I absolutely loved the FMC - I loved her strength, her determination, her compassion despite her situation, her loyalty and her drive. I enjoyed the MMC. He was quick witted and definitely gave off the morally grey, bully romance vibes. It is hard to get a good gage on him (as intended I believe) because his actions seem so hot and cold. You definitely get a ton of angst and when the spice hits, it was very well done. Overall, I devoured this book! I'm sure I looked like a rabid animal while reading the ending and legit about threw my phone across the room. CLIFFHANGER!!!! I'm gonna need the author to get book 2 released like ASAP because my heart just simply cannot wait long!
Good golly, miss molly!! This book had me in a choke hold!! Romantasy, fae with varying levels of magic, tournament of champions, exiled group seeking revenge, waring kingdoms, a curse, betrayal, angst, enemies to lovers....there really isn't a stone left unturned in this one!
The storyline follows a fae women who is exiled from her kingdom with the rest of the "infinite" powered fae. Thea struggles to find a way to save her fellow outcasts as they slowly starve, when she gets wind of a chance tournament that could change their fate. Determined to do whatever it takes to help her friends, Thea heads back into the hornet's nest to join. Her journey is complicated by ongoing amnesia, which means she has no idea if people will recognize her for the exiled fae she is or not. Throughout the story, her memories start to come back in bits and pieces. Unfortunately, they never seem to add up and the stories others tell her also seem to have holes. She is caught between wanting to learn the truth about her past and being forced to doubt everyone around her. Is anyone telling her the truth?
I found the book to be incredibly exciting, captivating and enjoyable. The beginning was a little slow, but that was also great for world building and setting the scene. By 20% in I felt the book became very fast-paced and action packed. After 50% - it was like the hits just didn't stop coming! I absolutely loved the FMC - I loved her strength, her determination, her compassion despite her situation, her loyalty and her drive. I enjoyed the MMC. He was quick witted and definitely gave off the morally grey, bully romance vibes. It is hard to get a good gage on him (as intended I believe) because his actions seem so hot and cold. You definitely get a ton of angst and when the spice hits, it was very well done. Overall, I devoured this book! I'm sure I looked like a rabid animal while reading the ending and legit about threw my phone across the room. CLIFFHANGER!!!! I'm gonna need the author to get book 2 released like ASAP because my heart just simply cannot wait long!
March 14, 2024
Raised to hate each other, destined to love one another.
I’ll love you in this life and the next. My soul will always find yours.
4.5⭐️ A great debut novel for this author that I recommend if you’re a fantasy fan. This book has enemies-to-lovers, forbidden magic and tons of plot twists to keep you plenty enthralled.
The FMC, Thea, was living in exile, escaping every now and again by crossing a magic barrier to the Crimson Kingdom in order to steal goods for her and her friends in exile to survive. She held coveted elite magic but was also held back by not having her memories—they came in and out in the form of dreams and places that sparked familiarity. The MMC, Cassius, was first introduced to us through her dreams and later on connected to her in the Kingdom where Thea ended up after stealing an invitation to the Trials. Thea stole this invitation because she wanted to win, to have a wish granted, and the wish was to free her and the friends she loved from exile.
This book is full of plot, with unforeseen and clever twists. The forbidden romance subplot helps drive the story further with its tension. Entwined with desire, friendship, lies, manipulation and betrayals, the ending cliffhanger at the end gives you actual whiplash. I held on though and loved it and how it engaged you in every way.
I only docked .5 on my rating because the story did get a bit choppy at times and the FMC seemed to make rash decisions without truly thinking about or fearing any consequences. Certain things would happen and then they’d be kind of skirted over or forgiven. I wanted a bit better resolution.
Overall, I hope this book gets a lot of hype and I’m excited to read Book 2! Thank you to author, Shay Taylor, for allowing me to read and review this ARC.
I’ll love you in this life and the next. My soul will always find yours.
4.5⭐️ A great debut novel for this author that I recommend if you’re a fantasy fan. This book has enemies-to-lovers, forbidden magic and tons of plot twists to keep you plenty enthralled.
The FMC, Thea, was living in exile, escaping every now and again by crossing a magic barrier to the Crimson Kingdom in order to steal goods for her and her friends in exile to survive. She held coveted elite magic but was also held back by not having her memories—they came in and out in the form of dreams and places that sparked familiarity. The MMC, Cassius, was first introduced to us through her dreams and later on connected to her in the Kingdom where Thea ended up after stealing an invitation to the Trials. Thea stole this invitation because she wanted to win, to have a wish granted, and the wish was to free her and the friends she loved from exile.
This book is full of plot, with unforeseen and clever twists. The forbidden romance subplot helps drive the story further with its tension. Entwined with desire, friendship, lies, manipulation and betrayals, the ending cliffhanger at the end gives you actual whiplash. I held on though and loved it and how it engaged you in every way.
I only docked .5 on my rating because the story did get a bit choppy at times and the FMC seemed to make rash decisions without truly thinking about or fearing any consequences. Certain things would happen and then they’d be kind of skirted over or forgiven. I wanted a bit better resolution.
Overall, I hope this book gets a lot of hype and I’m excited to read Book 2! Thank you to author, Shay Taylor, for allowing me to read and review this ARC.
March 14, 2024
I want to thank Shay Taylor for considering me for ARC reader and allowing me to read this amazing story. I rate this 4.5/5.
If you're in ACOTAR series or Mist King Series this book will be for you!
Story beings with Thea an Elite magic holder living in Exile due to the evil Crimson King punishing those with extra powers. Situation in Exile becomes serious when resources begin to dwindle. Thea is the only one capable of crossing the barrier from exile into the real world. She occasionally takes the risks to gather resources for herself and found family in Exile. In one of her trips into the real world she comes across an invitation to compete in trials to earn a reward of a wish. Thea decides to take the risk of going to the Crimson kingdom, the most dangerous place for her kind to save and free those she loves. In going to the Crimson Kingdom she not only has to battle through physical competitions but also battle internal struggles. When she entered Exile she lost memories of who she was before exile life, and it adds a whole complex element to the FMC, and I believe Shay Taylor did an amazing job bringing that inner struggle to life. Not everything seems as it is, Thea's journey takes an unexpected twist at the end that had my jaw dropping as I finished reading the book. Super Excited to see where her journey will take her in the next book.
Now, in addition to this book having an amazing plot it also had SPICE!!! Oh my, was it sinfully delicious to read. Overall, a great read. Solid start to what I expect to be an amazing series!
If you're in ACOTAR series or Mist King Series this book will be for you!
Story beings with Thea an Elite magic holder living in Exile due to the evil Crimson King punishing those with extra powers. Situation in Exile becomes serious when resources begin to dwindle. Thea is the only one capable of crossing the barrier from exile into the real world. She occasionally takes the risks to gather resources for herself and found family in Exile. In one of her trips into the real world she comes across an invitation to compete in trials to earn a reward of a wish. Thea decides to take the risk of going to the Crimson kingdom, the most dangerous place for her kind to save and free those she loves. In going to the Crimson Kingdom she not only has to battle through physical competitions but also battle internal struggles. When she entered Exile she lost memories of who she was before exile life, and it adds a whole complex element to the FMC, and I believe Shay Taylor did an amazing job bringing that inner struggle to life. Not everything seems as it is, Thea's journey takes an unexpected twist at the end that had my jaw dropping as I finished reading the book. Super Excited to see where her journey will take her in the next book.
Now, in addition to this book having an amazing plot it also had SPICE!!! Oh my, was it sinfully delicious to read. Overall, a great read. Solid start to what I expect to be an amazing series!
August 9, 2025
A girl that " supposedly " Everyone fears because she has incredible powers and incredible combat skills joins a trial
The trial plot was actually decent. And the only good thing because that's where the good things end in that book
Cassius was so annoying here, on second he's flirting then he's cold then he's calling her my love, then he's letting ow insult her while he laughs, then flirts again then ignores her
and Thea's horny ass is always having BBS for this manchild
I get that the hot and cold demeanor of his Was a way to protect her from something but goddammit man stick to something.
He was cold and humiliating because he didn't want The other contestants to think she was sleeping with him for information I get that. But then why would he confuse her by openly flirting with her again? And didn't her hopes because her dumbass sure got hopeful alot
Anyways his " betrayl " didn't hit as hard because i know it'll be revealed that it was a way for him to save or protect her and it'll be anticlimatic AF
Safety :
Hopefully No sleeping with op, she didn't but idk about him since we didn't get his pov
Owd : a princess was Openly flirting with him infront of thea and he allowed her to flirt and sit with him ( in Thea's seat) while disprespecting Thea constantly without him defending her. The princess was ultimately kicked away by the king ( god bless him for doing what his child son couldn't ) after she proposed to marry Cassius and he refused
-No omd
The trial plot was actually decent. And the only good thing because that's where the good things end in that book
Cassius was so annoying here, on second he's flirting then he's cold then he's calling her my love, then he's letting ow insult her while he laughs, then flirts again then ignores her
and Thea's horny ass is always having BBS for this manchild
I get that the hot and cold demeanor of his Was a way to protect her from something but goddammit man stick to something.
He was cold and humiliating because he didn't want The other contestants to think she was sleeping with him for information I get that. But then why would he confuse her by openly flirting with her again? And didn't her hopes because her dumbass sure got hopeful alot
Anyways his " betrayl " didn't hit as hard because i know it'll be revealed that it was a way for him to save or protect her and it'll be anticlimatic AF
Safety :
Hopefully No sleeping with op, she didn't but idk about him since we didn't get his pov
Owd : a princess was Openly flirting with him infront of thea and he allowed her to flirt and sit with him ( in Thea's seat) while disprespecting Thea constantly without him defending her. The princess was ultimately kicked away by the king ( god bless him for doing what his child son couldn't ) after she proposed to marry Cassius and he refused
-No omd
March 16, 2024
This is my first ARC and honestly I couldn’t be happier that it was this book.
The story started off a bit slow but it makes sense to set the scene and really get into Thea’s mindset and how she feels and the struggles she's facing. Honestly this book made me feel everything, from loneliness and confusion to excitement and joy. I was so immersed in this world and to Thea’s thoughts that I just couldn’t expect the twist and turns that happened in this book. I thought I might have it figured out at one point but I was so wrong.
Even after finishing this book I have so many questions that leave me eagerly awaiting the next book to finally get answers. I had hoped that they would be answered at the end of this book but I really want to read more of Thea's story and find out more about her as a character with her memories, which probably would have been rushed if it was squeezed into this book.
The relationship between the main characters was very hot and cold throughout the book and I found myself questioning everything that happened between them and craving more from them. The spice was good and the MMC played a big part in making the few spicy scenes as good as they were.
As soon as I hear about the next book I will be jumping at the chance to continue Thea’s story and see where it goes. I would highly recommend this book, especially if you are new to fantasy as it was really easy to follow and get lost in.
The story started off a bit slow but it makes sense to set the scene and really get into Thea’s mindset and how she feels and the struggles she's facing. Honestly this book made me feel everything, from loneliness and confusion to excitement and joy. I was so immersed in this world and to Thea’s thoughts that I just couldn’t expect the twist and turns that happened in this book. I thought I might have it figured out at one point but I was so wrong.
Even after finishing this book I have so many questions that leave me eagerly awaiting the next book to finally get answers. I had hoped that they would be answered at the end of this book but I really want to read more of Thea's story and find out more about her as a character with her memories, which probably would have been rushed if it was squeezed into this book.
The relationship between the main characters was very hot and cold throughout the book and I found myself questioning everything that happened between them and craving more from them. The spice was good and the MMC played a big part in making the few spicy scenes as good as they were.
As soon as I hear about the next book I will be jumping at the chance to continue Thea’s story and see where it goes. I would highly recommend this book, especially if you are new to fantasy as it was really easy to follow and get lost in.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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