Bold

by Hope E. Davis

Deep in Sidhe, a fantasy world hidden within Ireland, Sierra and Aodhan find themselves separated, facing different challenging situations that could cost them everything…

Sierra

Sierra’s life has been upended and changed in ways she could never have imagined. But will her newfound confidence and belief in herself be enough to help her escape the clutches of evil and bring much-needed government change to Sidhe?

Aodhan

Captured by the last person he expected to become his enemy, Aodhan is faced with a choice: stay in prison and wonder what became of Sierra and his friends, or make a deal with the devil himself, which could change his life forever.

From Author Hope E. Davis comes the epic fantasy-heavy sequel and conclusion of Sierra’s and Aodhan’s story, which began in the NA Romantasy, Demure.

Genres: Romance, Fantasy, Romantasy

356 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 16, 2024

About the author

When Hope isn’t writing her next novel, she is busy traveling the world, trying new foods, or hanging out with friends. A graduate from Metropolitan State University, Hope grew up in Colorado, USA, but currently calls the Netherlands her home. To find information about her other or future novels, follow Hope on TikTok or Instagram: @hopeedavisauthor.

Reviews

[Danielle Pulliam · Rating 4 out of 5]

**𝑨𝑹𝑪 𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘** 𝑩𝒐𝒍𝒅 𝒃𝒚 𝑯𝒐𝒑𝒆 𝑬. 𝑫𝒂𝒗𝒊𝒔 (𝑴𝒐𝒅𝒆𝒓𝒏 𝑳𝒆𝒈𝒆𝒏𝒅𝒔 𝒐𝒇 𝑺𝒊𝒅𝒉𝒆 #2)

Release Date: December 16, 2024

4⭐️3🌶

This book is just the right amount of cozy fantasy with a good dose of darkness and spice. I loved following Sierra, Aodhan, and their found family through the magical forests, castles, dungeons, and treetop houses.

Sierra and Aodhan's story continues in this second and final installment in the Modern Legends of Sidhe Duology. In the first book, Sierra is a graduate student in Ireland, when all of her plans change when she meets Aodhan via a dating app. They do the opposite of hit it off on their Tinder date, and then Aodhan seems to find Sierra wherever she goes just to annoy her.

Their hate/annoyance turns into something more, and Aodhan has to save Sierra when his father steals her away to the hidden world of Sidhe, where he was born and raised.

In this second installment, Sierra and Aodhan are both in Sidhe, but separated against their will. They must overcome the politics and other challenges in Sidhe in order to find their way back to each other, and save the Fae from continuing on with little to no magic. A, they must find a way to stop Aodhan's father from kidnapping women from the human world and torturing them in the name of science/magic.

A Few Themes:
-Found Family
-Enemies to Lovers
-Alice in Wonderland
-Touch her and you die
-Magic systems
-Fantasy world
-Fae, humans, and other

[Aaron Kempton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had such high expectations for “Bold” after reading “Demure”, and I must say I was not disappointed in the least.

You can’t help but fall deeper in love with the main characters, Sierra and Aodhan, as you watch the two not only grow as a couple, but individually as well in their new roles.

The pivotal role in which the animals played in the story line was what really put this story over the top for me. Their impact was one of the more significant ones, and I came to the conclusion that I need an Elipag of my own 🤣

Hope E. Davis does wonderful in reaching the conclusion of this duology, tying up all loose ends that really leaves the reader satisfied. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Spice: 2

Tropes:
Found Family
Chosen One
magic
Animal telepathy

Bold picks up immediately where book 1, Demure, left off! Sierra, our FMC, is trying to rescue her love, Aodhan, from the snake shifter. Sierra also begins her experiments to test her hypothesis of what is causing the Fae to lose their magic. Can she solve this generational issue and restore magic to Sidhe?

So. Much. Happens in Bold! Like What? I'm going to try really hard not to put any spoilers here so stick with me here:

1. I love the growth of Sierra. I love that we see her internal struggle of are her and Aodhan moving too fast play out. Honestly, so many times we ship couples and they're love at first sight and never question it. This was so much more realistic.

2. Aislan. I love this character. He's authentically himself and I NEED more of what Aislan is up to. Give me a whole book on Aislan!

3. My heart broke in this one. I literally yelled at my book. I did not see that coming. Actually there are 3 separate incidents that I didn't see coming. I love a good surprise but shew, these tugged on my heart strings.

I can't say more because it'll give things away but just know characters I didn't mention, I love you. I love all the characters.... BUT I think my most surprising favorite is the Snake Shifter ;) He's morally grey and I think, maybe, going to keep surprising us all.

[Whit · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bold by Hope E. Davis picks up where book 1, Demure left off. I loved the continuation of Sierra and Aodhan’s story.

Sierra’s assurance in herself was one of my favorite parts. This isn’t the kind of story where the FMC gets supernatural powers of some kind and then immediately becomes a stabby baddie. Sierra struggles with her emotions, sense of self, and strength throughout the book. Her growth is subtle, realistic, and heartfelt. Hope has done an excellent job writing her character!

Now let me say, I love Aodhan and his intense loyalty but I am absolutely fascinated by Typon, the snake shifter. I cannot wait to see his story continue in Hope’s next book.

When I saw the “animal sidekicks” trope, I’ll be honest and say I was skeptical. That trope made the book so interesting. I adore Arco and his obsession with snacks and the badger??? Excuse me??? I want to snuggle the badger.

Favorite quote: “Believe? No. But I had long hoped that there was something more. Something to enjoy and revel in the beauty beyond what existed in my small circle.”

[Lara thewinter_fox_library · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a perfect continuation of book one (Demure) with the perfect combination of cozy fantasy, romance and spice!

For me Sierra and Aodhan’s love was the highlight of the book. We see so much grown in Sierra since book one, so much love, compassion and kindness that really left my heart warm. At the same time Aodhan is the most green flag ever in this book. So caring, understanding and lovable that made me fall even more in love!

The plot was amazing, kept me hooked page after page, there were a few parts I did not see coming at all and was pleasant surprise!

Highly recommend this duology

✨ Hidden magical world
🌿 Found family
✨ Cute animal sidekicks
🌿 Dual POV
✨ Open door spice

[Olivia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fantastic conclusion to this duology! I loved seeing Sierra step into herself and her confidence and I loved seeing Aodhan love her unconditionally.

This was such an action packed book—so many events happened in a short amount of time which I LOVED! Up until the end of the book I was on the edge of my seat waiting to see what else would happen!

And then that ending!? *chefs kiss*

I highly recommend this duology to people looking to dip their toes into the fantasy genre, as the world building and magic system is easy to understand.

[Bookish Martina · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to the author for this review copy! I'm leaving this review voluntarily and all opinions are my own.

Bold picks up right where Demure left off, plunging readers into Sierra's double-task to save Aodhan and the magic of the fae.

The world building of the duology is beautifully done, and I found myself really drawn to the magic of Sidhe! I also enjoyed reading of the developing friendship between Sierra and her companions, as well as of the MC's magical skills.

However, I unfortunately didn't love the book as a whole, as I found there was too much time spent talking about doing things and waiting for plans to happen, rather than actually on the action. And a lot of things got solved a bit too easily and smoothly thanks to strokes of luck, or conveniently placed magical powers/beings.

[NerdyWordyReviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amazing book!! You have to start with Demure first to follow the storyline.

In this second book it follows Aodhan and Sierra into a magical, hidden realm. Filled with adventure, disaster, love and magic. Action scenes and chaos as well and heart-felt scenes within.

There are some wonderful spicy moments written into the story that flow well with the narrative.

The growth of Sierra was fun to watch/read. The strength and magical storyline is fantastic and mind blowing. (shhhh… it’s a secret, read to find out).

The new friendships and the build of the romantic relationship was written well.

The flow of the story was well done as it kept me interested the whole time.

Great sequel.

[Emily Andriko · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars.
Bold picks up right where Demure ended with Aodhan in trouble and Sierra and the gang trying to figure out how to save Sidhe. I really enjoyed Sierra's growth in this story as she realized that sheis stronger than thought and she actually had things to offer despite the challenges her of human upbringing.

I loved the growth of the team throughout the book, despite the challenges of trying to traverse the entire realm while staying undetected for safety AND while Sierra starts to navigate her life as Fae. I grew to love the animal sidekicks (even though I really didn’t know what to expect when I saw that as a trope).

I really enjoyed the premise of this book - it was unique and I can see a lot of potential for more stories to be built into this world going forward.


However, though I did enjoy the read, there were a couple things that I couldn’t look past trust led me to drop my rating to a 3.5.
- There were multiple continuity errors that impacted my reading experience that occurred early in the story and then throughout. I felt like there were quite a few “let’s do this” moments and then two pages later (exaggeration) that talk was abandoned and forgotten about before moving to the next.
- I didn’t love the emphasis on Sierra needing to get rid of the psoriasis to be pretty. I understand some people with psoriasis feel this way but it felt like an excessively heavy emphasis in this story and not completely necessary.
- Finally, Sierra solved the Fae problem way too quickly. She became Fae because she felt she was needed for hundreds of years to be able to work on and research this but then a month or two into a 50 year study she was just….positive she solved it? It just didn’t feel appropriate at all. That easily could’ve been a plot point that was left “unsolved” and mentioned again in a future book in passing. Or even with a second epilogue.


Regardless, I enjoyed myself reading this and I will definitely be excited to pick up Aislan and Typhon’s book in the future!

[Haylie Garner · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a great continuance and end to the story of Sierra and Aodhan.
I loved how the author started with small recaps of the first book in the first couple of chapters. It made it super easy to slide back into the story.
I enjoyed reading how the charcters faced each obstactle head on rather than beating around the bush. It really encompasses how Sierra continued to grow and evolve in this book. She really became the Bold woman she wished she could be.
Sierra and Aodhans love story is unmatched. He's is so caring and understanding toward her emotions and makes her feel comfortable in her own skin and mind. It's so beautiful.
Oh! and the animal friends / sidekicks in this book were amazing. I loved each and every one of them!!
The only thing I wish there was more of in this book is maybe more elongated sexy scenes. (but thats just my taste in books lol)
All in all this was a great ending to their story and the HEA left my heart full.

Thank you to Hope Davis for sending me an ARC to read and review with my honest thoughts <3

[Paige (wingsandsmut) · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨ Bold ✨by Hope E. Davis is a fantasy and the second book in a duology. It is written in a way that makes it feel enchanting and you can’t help but fall in love with Sierra and Aodhan’s story even more!

The story picks up right where Demure left off and I couldn’t help but get sucked back into the story with these characters! So much happens in this book and we see our favorite characters grow even more. While Sierra is willing to do whatever is needed to help those she cares about, I also truly love how sweet she is and does not hesitate to give others another chance even if they have wronged her.

What to expect:
-Urban fantasy
-Found family
-Hidden magical world
-Animal sidekicks
-Chosen one

If you’re looking for a fantasy with some adventure, romance, and some spice, definitely check this book out when it releases on December 16th, but make sure you’ve read Demure first!

Thank you so much to Hope E. Davis for the chance to read and review an early copy in exchange for an honest review!

[ciin_leest · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well glad to be back in this amazing world! Bold takes of right where Demure ended so you can dive right back into the story. And I enjoyed this book so much! 

And Hope did an amazing job with this book. I really enjoyed reading about the group again and I loved how much character development she put in it. Especially Sierra took a leap in de development pool. The sidekick/animal friends where freakin adorable, like who doesn't like to have an animal sidekick?! I know I would! 

The love story between Sierra and Aodhan gives the book the right amound of love between all the magic and fantasy. The way Hope weaves it right through the chapters made me fall in love with the story even more!


I can't wait to see what's in store for us readers next! 

Hope E. Davis thank you so much for this ARC to read and review!

[Vanessa Symington · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bold is a perfect follow up to Demure in the Modern Legends of Sidhe duology. This was a beautiful completion of the duology. Hope E Davis has done a remarkable job at providing a continuation to the story that had been previously established while still giving readers reminders about events that had previously unfolded. It was easy to fall back into the story. I couldn't put it down.

Bold allows for the reader to seamlessly fall back into the adventure and struggles that the characters face, while also introducing new challenges. Packed with fantasy and emotion, it was amazing to see so much growth in many of the characters.

This was a thought-provoking read. Personally, I found myself asking how I would react if I was in the same position of many of the characters. While this is fiction, and set in a fantasy world, many of the character reactions and feelings towards the challenges they faced were extremely relatable.

I very much enjoyed Bold and would absolutely recommend it. If you enjoy low-spice romantasy steeped in magic and nature, then the Modern Legends of Sidhe duology is for you. Please consider the CWs and TWs as everyone has various sensitivities.

[Nicole Tribuna · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨ Bold ✨
❥ By Hope W. Davis ❥

✨Wow, I loved Demure and I love Bold just as much! Hope’s writing is so well written and so much to take in, I loved it! This was my first fantasy duo and I absolutely loved it! I could not put Bold down!
✨Hope had me engaged from the first page, I was truly hooked! I loved the adventure Hope took me on thru this book! Just the right amount of magic and fantasy. The romance and spice is just right! The things Sierra would do for Aodhan and their love story is one for the books! I fell in love with Sierra and Aodhan. They both stole my heart! All of the characters were so thought out! Hope truly does an awesome job creating her characters. I loved the connections Sierra had with the animals.
✨This is truly a magical HEA fantasy read! I wish this duo did not end! Beautiful! Oh my heart! ❥

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️

[Unleishd_reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an enchanting continuation of the duology, blending fantasy, magic, and gripping challenges that test the characters in unexpected ways. The story deepens with richly imagined magical elements and complex relationships that kept me on the edge of my seat. I loved the dual POVs. And I loved the animal sidekicks!
The skillful storytelling creates a world that feels both immersive and emotionally resonant. The compelling twists and satisfying resolution make this sequel a truly enjoyable read for fantasy lovers.

[Devika · Rating 4 out of 5]

I must admit I loved Demure more than I loved Bold. This story is slow paced but has a lot of character development. Sierra is really growing into her Fae life. Aodhan on the other hand is captured and doesn't really add to most of the storyline, except for being the love interest. However I liked the storyline and do have a surprising favorite character being Typhon, the snake shifter.

Check out my full review on my blog Boekensteeg

[Dewi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hope E. Davis showed with Bold that not all books are affected by sequel syndrome and created one of the best conclusions to a duology I have read so far.

In Bold, we see how Sierra and Aodhan's story continues where we left off in Demure. Reminders of events in the first book were integrated flawlessly, so I had no trouble getting back into the world of Sidhe. Furthermore, in the first book I missed some character development, but Bold did more than just make up for that. You get to know these characters through and through and more importantly, you get to understand them and their actions.

I don't want to go too much into the story, as I think it is really worth to read it and I don't want to spoil anything. However, I didn't know what to expect, but this wasn't what I expected at all, and I mean that in the best way possible. There was some foreshadowing, but nonetheless I was positively surprised. The story was well thought out and even when I thought something was unnecessary, I was proved wrong every time.

Overall, I would really recommend this duology. It shows a lot of growth in the writing skills of Hope E. Davis as well, which is something I really love. The magic system is really interesting and I wish there were more books in this world, because I just want to know more about it.

Thank you so much to Hope E. Davis for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Elliot · Rating 5 out of 5]

I honestly preferred Bold over Demure, but I think that tends to be the case with every book in a series for me, I always prefer the second.

While I don’t think the book is without flaws I did enjoy it and I finished it within a day because I was so hooked in!
I think my major issues were more with Sierra’s moods.
At the end of one chapter she’s talking about how full of change and confidence she is and then a page later her character seems meek and unsure of everything. It just felt like a bit of a jarring shift.
I also don’t personally like that Aodhan is able to shift her mood and basically make her aroused, that doesn’t sit right with me personally.
Sierra’s character also makes the same mistakes or has the same issues happen to her more than once which after a bit just felt repetitive.

However, besides those few things, I found myself needing more and more as the book went on. I needed to know what would happen in the next chapter, what issues the characters would face. I fell in love with the side characters, no matter if they were animal, human, or fae.

I look forward to the next book Hope releases!!

[Kk Wal · Rating 5 out of 5]

The coziest of romantacies. ♥️♥️

[Path.Through.Pages · Rating 4 out of 5]

First, I must say, what a great sequel to the original story! The characters felt so much more developed and dynamic, and you felt really invested in their journey and their story! So much growth from book 1!

I will say it took me a minute to wake my brain back up to the story, so the first few chapters were a bit of a jumble, but that's 100% on me! Highly recommend re-reading Demure to get you back into the vibe!

There were some things I really loved about Bold and a few other things that gave me pause. The things that gave me pause are rather minor, but I know they can impact the reading experience for some, but please know my overall review is positive!

Things I loved
- the relationship development was great! Like with the first book, it was natural, rational, and felt genuine without pulling too much from the main story.
- love the character development, especially the main supporting characters.
- the main tragedy was 😭 because you got so invested in their stories 💔
- the magic system, Gaia, the animals, all amazing!
- the blending between the human and fae worlds and Sierra’s struggle living between them was really well done!

What gave me pause
- if you're like me and really love background and character development, then you'll wish you had more on Typhon to try and help make a bit more sense of him. To be honest, there absolutely was more background given in book 1, so again, I really encourage you to re-read it and not make the mistake I did 😅
- at the Keep when Sierra snuck out to see the Slaine and then didn't talk to her at all, that made the situation feel a little misplaced and like a missed opportunity for story development. I totally get how some people would find this more realistic because girl has been separated from her mans and just needs to be with him! But my brain is like 'girl you got stuff to do! 😂'. This 100% could just be a me issue, though!
- It's a bit odd that Aodhan's mother was mentioned as a potential wild card for the meeting, but then she wasn't mentioned until everything was resolved.
- it's also odd that Typhon arrived at the meeting and then was okay with just leaving.

Overall, these issues are fairly minor.

Regardless of these things, I still recommend giving the series a try! It's enjoyable, and the characters are worth knowing!

P.s. no MC pregnancy tropes!

[Amanda Price (LifeWithAmandaP) · Rating 5 out of 5]

5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
2/5 🌶️🌶️

-

What to Expect:
What to expect:
🔮Hidden Magical World
💫Found Family
🔮Cute Animal Sidekicks
💫Dual POV
🔮Open Door Spice
💫Chosen One
🔮Urban Fantasy
💫Book 2

-

Wow. Bold, book two of the Modern Legends of Sidhe duology, completely enthralled and swept me off my feet! Picking up right where Demure left off, Hope E. Davis crafted an incredible continuation that had me hooked from the very first page. The stakes were higher, the magic deeper, and the emotions so raw that I couldn’t put it down (the spice was perfectionnnn). Sierra’s journey as she grapples with her newfound fae powers, tries to save Aodhan, and navigating the fragile bonds with her friends and allies was nothing short of enchanting. And Aodhan? He’s the definition of a cinnamon roll—sweet, supportive, and oh-so-patient with everything Sierra put out. Their love story gave me all the feels, from laughter to heartbreak to absolute joy.

One thing that stood out to me was how well Davis balanced the fantasy elements with deeply relatable emotions in each scenario on page. The magic of Sidhe and the goddess Gaia were beautifully woven into the story, adding depth to the story's world-building. But what really pulled me in were the relationships—not just Sierra and Aodhan’s romance, but also the found family dynamics and Sierra’s special bond with the animal companions (and now I want a sidekick!). I loved seeing the characters grow through their challenges, though I will admit Sierra’s mood shifts felt a bit jarring… even irritating? irrational? at times. That said, her resilience and determination still shone through, making her a badass FMC!

If you’re looking for a low to mid-spice romantasy packed with adventure, a hidden magical world, and emotional depth, Bold should be an INSTANT add to your TBR. I’m sad to say goodbye to the world of Sierra and Aodhan, but knowing more stories set in Sidhe are on the horizon has me beyond excited! Thank you, Hope E. Davis, for this magical journey.

A HUGE Thank You to Hope E. Davis and Happily Booked PR for not only allowing me to read this as an ARC, but for receiving a GORGEOUS physical copy to ARC. This review is 100% on my own free will and is my own opinion!

-

💫Content warnings:💫
Violence, death, mental illness, and open door sex scenes. Bold does feature a trans character who does have a transphobic parent. This is not a major plot point but may bother some readers.

[The Bookish Chimera - Pauline · Rating 3 out of 5]

“There was just something about sitting back and watching nature that made his heart full.”

Bold is the sequel to Demure, and thus can’t be read as a standalone. That being said, there are a lot of references to the first book through Bold’s pages.
I preferred this one to book1, especially regarding the writing style, which kept being better, like Demure’s last 20%. This was also an easier and quicker read, even though several elements contradicted each others, sometimes in a very quick manner.
Aodhan is a lot less toxic here than in the first book –so much that sometimes it’s hard to believe it’s the same character. That being said, his attitude that makes sure that Sierra remains isolated (even though she made her own choices, he doesn’t help her to be empowered and free) is another redflag about him (without the first book’s attitude, it would have been ok, but with his jealousy in book1… it doesn’t feel the same).
Sierra is also pretty different from the first book. Despite her new status of “Chosen One” she remains the damsel in distress. Her new powers aren’t explored so much except when it makes things easier for the plot. I wish she had difficulties and that magic wasn’t here only to save the day all the time.
Steamy scenes are better than in the first book. Unfortunately, they come a bit like a surprise, without tension, and I have to say I skipped them almost completely.
The world building is deeper than in the first book, with politics and new powers for Sierra. Like in the first book, I truly liked how she interacts with animals all along.
If you liked book1, you’ll like this one, as it’s a continuity, and it’s better.

I received an ARC copy of this book. I write this review voluntarily, and it’s my honest opinion about the story.

[Read.With.Mia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bold is the sequel to indie author Hope E. Davis’s debut romantasy novel, Demure.

I was both excited and honored to be an ARC reader for Bold, especially since I’d been eagerly awaiting the next chapter in Sierra’s and Aodhan’s journey. This book didn’t disappoint!

One of the things I love about this series is that it reads like a cozy, low-stakes fantasy, with a focus on character relationships and a hint of spice. While there are definitely tense moments, the story avoids prolonged anxiety or angst, which I personally appreciate since those can sometimes takw from the overall experience.

While Demure had its share of magic, Bold takes it to the next level, fully embracing the whimsical elements of the Fei world. I thoroughly enjoyed these moments, and found myself smiling as both the little girl and grown woman inside me got caught up in the wonder of it all.

Another standout element for me is the healthy dynamic between Sierra and Aodhan. One of my biggest pet peeves is when toxic behaviors are romanticized, but that’s not the case here. Aodhan is communicative, supportive, and knows how to be protective without being possessive. If that isn’t swoon-worthy, I don’t know what is.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed Bold. The plot was engaging and the ending was perfect. Best of all, I could see Hope E. Davis’s growth as a writer between these two novels. I am thrilled that there’s going to be a spin-off, Resilient, which is coming out in August next year. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 (Rounded up for Goodreads)

Pub Date: December 16, 2024

Thank you Hope for trusting me with your story! I loved every minute of reading an am so grateful for my ARC copy.

[Susmita Dhara · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you’re a fan of cozy fantasy with a touch of darkness, magic, and just the right amount of spice, Bold is your next must-read! Picking up immediately after Demure, this sequel takes us deeper into the enchanting yet perilous world of Sidhe. Sierra is on a mission to rescue Aodhan from a snake shifter while also unraveling the mystery behind the Fae’s disappearing magic.

Let me just say—this book does not hold back. From magical forests to treetop homes and dungeons, the journey is full of twists, heartbreaks, and surprises that had me gasping (and yelling) at my book.

What I Loved:
• Sierra’s Growth: Watching her evolve into a bold, fearless woman was so satisfying. Her internal struggle about whether her love with Aodhan is moving too fast added a layer of realism rarely seen in fantasy romances.
• Aodhan the Cinnamon Roll: Sweet, patient, and supportive—Aodhan is the kind of hero that makes you believe in love.
• Aislan: This character deserves his own book. Funny, authentic, and full of surprises, he stole the show!
• Twists and Heartbreaks: Three major moments left my heart shattered in the best way.
• Animal Sidekicks: Magical companions that added warmth and charm.

While the story shines, there were a few small moments, like Typhon’s abrupt exit or the underdeveloped Slaine meeting, that felt like missed opportunities. And, okay, I wouldn’t have minded a little more spice, but that’s just me!

Final Thoughts:

Bold is a fast-paced, emotional, and magical sequel that perfectly concludes Sierra and Aodhan’s story. If you love found family, dual POVs, and romance blended with action, this book is for you. Add this duology to your TBR—you won’t regret it!

Thank you Happily Booked PR for the gifted copy.

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

With the release of Bold, I was so excited to return to the world of the Modern Legends of Sidhe and jump back into the story of Sierra and Aodhan. 


Bold picks up where Demure ended, and we find ourselves with a newly transformed Sierra and and a captured Aodhan, both separated in Sidhe. Sierra quickly reunites with her found family, Fia, Aislan, Kaye, and Braan, as well as the epilags and Arco, her animal companions, to set out on an epic adventure to free Aodhan from the grasp Typhon, a snake shifter and demigod, Gaia's son. With Aodhan imprisoned and hypnotized by Typhon, Conlan continues abducting humans to experiement on to find a cure for the dying magic in Sidhe, and Sierra makes yet another deal with someone in the fae-realm, causing complications to the plans her found family laid out. Can Sierra uphold her deals and pay the price for not only her fae transformation, but Aodhan's freedom? Will she return to the human world and reconnect with her biological family? Will she remain fae? Will the group finally overtake Conlan and his misguided and cruel experiments? Will Sierra make good on her bargain and free Aodhan before he (or she) ends up imprisoned for eternity with Typhon? Will they find a cure for Sidhe, the first problem that set off the domino of ongoing complications? The tension, chaos, and plot rise quickly in Bold, which means understanding Demure is important in this story. As more fodder was added to the metaphorical fire, Bold kept me on my toes with each page. 


You'll like this story if you like fairytales, cultural representation, MCs over 25, modern fantasy, complicated but interesting plot, and found family. 

[Gianna · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - 4 stars

The point is, I love you Sierra. All of you, in every decade, every millennia. I knew from the first time I saw you that you were the one. But I knew you might not feel the same way, an that's okay. I’ve already waited a century for you. But I'll wait a century more if that's what it takes for you to trust me."

Review:
Bold picked up right after the cliffhanger of book 1 in this duology 'Demure'.

I loved that this book was fast paced an had dual POV's. The dual POV's gave insight into both characters emotions and motivations and also kept me on the edge of my seat all the time.

Sierra the FMC had major character growth, she faced her challenges and learned to embrace her strength and vulnerability.
Aodhan, on the other hand, was adorable. He’s the definition of a cinnamon roll. Sweet, understanding, and patient.

I also adored the animal sidekicks and the found family. So if these are your favorite tropes, I would reccomend to add these books to your TBR.

This was a great conlusion to the story of Sierra and Aodhan and I want to thank Hope very much for gifting me this ARC.

- Romantasy
- Adventure
- Hidden magical world
- Ireland
- Open door spice
- Animal sidekicks
- Fae
- Dual POV
- Found family
- Cinnamon roll MMC
- Latina FMC
- Chosen one

[Angie Frakes · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Hope and BookSirens for the eARC of Bold in exchange for an honest review.

Bold picks up shortly after the events of Demure, with Aodhan imprisoned and Sierra and their friends trying to figure out how to free him in any way possible. Newly transformed into a fae, Sierra has to learn how to live in this new world, and try to keep all of her friends together. Sierra must decide if she’s willing to pay the price of her transformation, as she learns of the costs of agreeing to fae bargains. Can Sierra save Aodhan, protect their friends, oust his father Conlan as the leader of their province, AND discover a remedy to the fading of magic in Sidhe? Read Bold and find out!

I thoroughly enjoyed this book! Bold made me laugh, it made me cry, it made me roll my eyes, and it definitely made me blush at times. This was the perfect end to Sierra and Aodhan’s non-traditional love story. The continued world-building and addition of new characters in this book made for an interesting read. The magic in Sidhe is so interesting to me, and the further exploration of the goddess Gaia and what is causing the magic to fade felt very unique and interesting to me.

As sad as I am that Sierra and Aodhan’s story has come to an end, I’m very excited that Hope will be continuing the Sidhe books with a standalone Aislan novel as well! I for one cannot wait to read it!

[Chelsea Bradley · Rating 3 out of 5]

“I love you, Sierra. All of you, in every decade, every millennia. I knew from the first time I saw you that you were the one. But I knew you might not feel the same way, and that's okay. I've already waited a century for you. But I'll wait a century more if that's what it takes for you to trust me."


Bold continued right where Demure left off, but I really appreciate the author having little recaps included in the first few chapters. It helped me to remember what happened without diving too in depth, so I was able to take off running with my read.

While I felt that the writing increased significantly from first book, there was some parts I found hard to read, with some inconsistencies with the plot, and some confusion with aspects that I read and overall just use certain language in a fantasy setting.

The storyline was intriguing enough to keep me hooked and I enjoyed following Sierra as she grew a lot with the experiences she went through. I loved the animal sidekicks, especially the mice. It always made me chuckle!! Also Aodhan is a green flag all around, respecting and supporting Sierra’s wishes throughout the entirety of the story. I’m interested to see what becomes of Aislan!

The ending was beautiful, and it was a perfect way to wrap up their story.



3.5 ⭐️ 2 🌶️

[Ashley Wyatt]

...Spoiler alert...



Thank you to Hope for sending me this arc and giving me the opportunity to read your newest book.

...However...

This book is missing a bit, unfortunately. I needed more action. I often felt bored and forced my way through the book. I wanted to see more doing things than talking, and there was ALOT of talking/planning.
Details explaining things like why Typhon even wants Sierra in the first place. Why did Sierra get powers from Gaia but wasn't told the consequences? What's the full reason WHY she got those powers out of everything that could have been offered to Sierra? What does Gaia expect in return for those powers Sierra has now? Why did Sierra need to become fae to save the fae world? Plot felt like it wasn't there for the most part... Things don't make sense like the Tyler situation(why get someone who you wanted NOTHING to do with to trade for your man) and Typhon.. I get why Typhon hypnotized Aodhan the first time, but why continue it when he already got his information and had made a deal with Sierra?

I got about 90 ish pages in (17 chapters in), and unfortunately, this is a DNF for me.

This is my honest book review for Bold.

[Lisa Spofford · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bold, by Hope E. Davis, is the second book in the Modern Legends of Sidhe. Deep in Sidhe, a fantasy realm located within Ireland, Sierra and Aodhan found themselves separated and facing different challenges. Sierra’s life had been completely upended. Would her newfound belief in herself help her to escape the clutches of evil and bring about governmental change to Sidhe? Aodhan was captured by the last person he expected and faced with a choice: stay in prison and wonder what had happened to Sierra and his friends or make a deal with the devil himself. I really enjoyed this conclusion to Sierra and Aodhan’s story. Both had to face their own challenges to come out on top and accomplish meaningful change for Sidhe and those who lived there. Both made large sacrifices in order to make this change happen. I am thrilled that the conclusion of their love story doesn’t mean the end of the world that the author has built. I am looking forward to the next volume in the series in which Aodhan’s sibling, Aislan, will learn what is in his future. If you are a reader who enjoys romantasy stories involving the Fae, then check out this series. It is available to read in Kindle Unlimited.

I would like to thank Happily Booked PR for the gift of a physical copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.