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Realm of Fey #3
A Deception of Courts: Realm of Fey, Book III
With high stakes and even higher heat, A Deception of Courts is the third instalment in the bestselling Realm of Fey series by Ben Alderson, perfect for fans of ACOTAR by Sarah J. Maas.
Robin Icethorn, King of the Winter Court, must stop The Hand, who threatens to bring forth a time of monsters. The search for the keys to free Duwar, the demon God, from his unearthly bindings has begun. Finding unlikely allies, Robin is thrust into a war of Gods, becoming no more than a pawn on the game board he never wished to be a part of. Whilst new flames crackle with electrifying power and old flames return, equally changed – Robin is forced to make decisions that would change the course of his, and his kingdoms, lives forever.
Robin Icethorn, King of the Winter Court, must stop The Hand, who threatens to bring forth a time of monsters. The search for the keys to free Duwar, the demon God, from his unearthly bindings has begun. Finding unlikely allies, Robin is thrust into a war of Gods, becoming no more than a pawn on the game board he never wished to be a part of. Whilst new flames crackle with electrifying power and old flames return, equally changed – Robin is forced to make decisions that would change the course of his, and his kingdoms, lives forever.
495 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 3, 2024
118 people are currently reading
2446 people want to read
About the author
Ben Alderson
30 books14.4k followersBen Alderson is a #1 Amazon bestselling author. His stories are set in fantasy worlds filled with magic, adventure and MM romance. Ben lives in Oxfordshire and, when not writing, can be found reading, taking Winston - his Labrador - out for long walks, or obsessing over Marvel’s The Scarlet Witch.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
March 3, 2023
I just don't know what to write. I started to read the books a few weeks ago and most of the time, it's been a forced read (I cannot stop reading once I set out to read something). This review is also to reflect on the previous two books in the series.
To start with the positive, because there definitely are some things I enjoyed! Mainly the tropes and different kind of characters. The story itself and the whole worldbuilding has great potential and I'm always up for dark themes. And drama. There is a lot.
Which is one, if not even the main, reason it was exhausting to read the first three books (apparently there is a 4th one coming which would only make sense after the cliffhanger at the end of book 3). There is so much going on, so much treason and constant high energy and pacing that I would just loved for some kind of time out?
There are sweet and tender moments, don't get me wrong and they're a nicely written. But after each one there follows a series of death and distruction and despair.
Robin, the MC, lacks character growth I desperatedly wished to come. He sometimes seemed selfish to me and although I do understand that, given his history and all the negative things happening around and to him, he wouldn't open up about some things which lead to misunderstqndings and problems. Requiring honesty from the people around him but not giving it to them likewise just doesn't sit right with me.
At some point, I really got tired of the constant plot twists and revelations because I waited for them. And although I'm totally Team Duncan, I found the sudden change in love interest not handled well and too soon / fast.
All in all, I cannot say if I recommend the series or not. Or if I'm just way too critical. The books just didn't convinced me 100% but I am curious and kind of looking forward to the 4th book in the series.
To start with the positive, because there definitely are some things I enjoyed! Mainly the tropes and different kind of characters. The story itself and the whole worldbuilding has great potential and I'm always up for dark themes. And drama. There is a lot.
Which is one, if not even the main, reason it was exhausting to read the first three books (apparently there is a 4th one coming which would only make sense after the cliffhanger at the end of book 3). There is so much going on, so much treason and constant high energy and pacing that I would just loved for some kind of time out?
There are sweet and tender moments, don't get me wrong and they're a nicely written. But after each one there follows a series of death and distruction and despair.
Robin, the MC, lacks character growth I desperatedly wished to come. He sometimes seemed selfish to me and although I do understand that, given his history and all the negative things happening around and to him, he wouldn't open up about some things which lead to misunderstqndings and problems. Requiring honesty from the people around him but not giving it to them likewise just doesn't sit right with me.
At some point, I really got tired of the constant plot twists and revelations because I waited for them. And although I'm totally Team Duncan, I found the sudden change in love interest not handled well and too soon / fast.
All in all, I cannot say if I recommend the series or not. Or if I'm just way too critical. The books just didn't convinced me 100% but I am curious and kind of looking forward to the 4th book in the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 4, 2024
I AM UNFUCKINGWELL. I want to go into a coma until the next book is released. I CANNOT. wtf am I even going to do with myself? My chest. It hurts. Someone send help
August 14, 2025
WOW.
I'm still reeling from the ending of this one and my goodness, am I glad to have the 4th and final book sitting right here next to me!
This series has been outstanding. I've loved each installment so far and for very different reasons. (I'm still pretty shocked at why I loved the second book so much because Ben Alderson did the impossible - made me wish for a trope that is my #2 most hated trope ever. Not only did he deliver on what I wanted....he NAILED it. Pun intended. Heh.) I'm really looking forward into reading his other works - but first, I have to read the resolution to this series!!
I'm a huge fan of character growth and development and this book just kept on giving and giving in that regard. I enjoyed it so much that I often reread chapters, or went back to certain parts several times, just to make sure I got the full scope and breadth of what the author was set on accomplishing - and my goodness did it end up being pure fire.
I see so many emphasizing that this series is a fantasy romance - but it is so much more than that. It's steeped in intrigue - involving the humans, the fey courts and others - the magic system and the different types of beings, the world building, the character development, the found family and their relationships to and with one another...this series just does it all!!
I'm still reeling from the ending of this one and my goodness, am I glad to have the 4th and final book sitting right here next to me!
This series has been outstanding. I've loved each installment so far and for very different reasons. (I'm still pretty shocked at why I loved the second book so much because Ben Alderson did the impossible - made me wish for a trope that is my #2 most hated trope ever. Not only did he deliver on what I wanted....he NAILED it. Pun intended. Heh.) I'm really looking forward into reading his other works - but first, I have to read the resolution to this series!!
I'm a huge fan of character growth and development and this book just kept on giving and giving in that regard. I enjoyed it so much that I often reread chapters, or went back to certain parts several times, just to make sure I got the full scope and breadth of what the author was set on accomplishing - and my goodness did it end up being pure fire.
I see so many emphasizing that this series is a fantasy romance - but it is so much more than that. It's steeped in intrigue - involving the humans, the fey courts and others - the magic system and the different types of beings, the world building, the character development, the found family and their relationships to and with one another...this series just does it all!!
February 22, 2023
4.5⭐️
I have loved every other book in this series and this one is no exception!!
This book sent me on such a roller coaster of emotions and thoughts and ugh so good!
Robin is such a complex character and I have loved seeing him grow over the course of these books! He’s so full of love and passion and heart. I love his loyalty and the dedication he has to protecting the ones he loves and cares for!
The dynamic between Robin and Duncan and Robin and Erix and Duncan and Erix is so so layered and it had my thoughts all over the place!! The love Duncan and Robin have for each other is so pure and strong and lovely and I love it so much! But also the tension between Erix and Robin had me feeling all the things! They have such a rich history together and I loved them when they were together and just ugh feelings! But I am also completely in love with the respect that Erix and Duncan have for each other and the way that they trust each other.
I loved all the action and planning that this one had! And ugh the way I KNEW Kayne was gonna be the one to betray them but then I talked myself out of it🫠
ALSO WTF DUWAR IS HERE?! DOES THAT MEAN DUNCAN IS DEAD?? WHAT IS GOING ON!?
I have loved every other book in this series and this one is no exception!!
This book sent me on such a roller coaster of emotions and thoughts and ugh so good!
Robin is such a complex character and I have loved seeing him grow over the course of these books! He’s so full of love and passion and heart. I love his loyalty and the dedication he has to protecting the ones he loves and cares for!
The dynamic between Robin and Duncan and Robin and Erix and Duncan and Erix is so so layered and it had my thoughts all over the place!! The love Duncan and Robin have for each other is so pure and strong and lovely and I love it so much! But also the tension between Erix and Robin had me feeling all the things! They have such a rich history together and I loved them when they were together and just ugh feelings! But I am also completely in love with the respect that Erix and Duncan have for each other and the way that they trust each other.
I loved all the action and planning that this one had! And ugh the way I KNEW Kayne was gonna be the one to betray them but then I talked myself out of it🫠
ALSO WTF DUWAR IS HERE?! DOES THAT MEAN DUNCAN IS DEAD?? WHAT IS GOING ON!?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 5, 2025
This series has put me in a chokehold so strong. I have laughed, I have cried, I have stayed up way past my bedtime on work nights desperate to find out characters were okay. This last installment put me through every caliber of anxiety, and now I will be itching to get my hands on the next one after that gut punch of an ending. Wow.
November 25, 2022
4.5 / 5 ⭐'s
I'd like to thank the author for giving me an ARC of this book in exchange for a review
Picking up right where A Kingdom of Lies ended, this book threw me right into the action and it didn't stop there. It was jam packed with twists, turns and betrayals. The underlying love story was great with an unexpected love triangle thrown in, thankfully this love triangle wasn't cringe worthy. Then the ending... oh my... I was not expecting it to end that way and I need the next book.
Robin changed a lot in this book, it was evident the events of the previous 2 books had taken a huge toll on him. He was so unhinged in this book. There were times he was callous, but I could understand why. All the characters had great development here and the new characters too.
Even though I loved this book, there were many times I felt the chapters dragged slightly. However, I think this was just my personal reading preference of not liking super long chapters.
Overall, I highly recommend this book. I can't wait to get answers with the final installment and I know readers will love this.
I'd like to thank the author for giving me an ARC of this book in exchange for a review
Picking up right where A Kingdom of Lies ended, this book threw me right into the action and it didn't stop there. It was jam packed with twists, turns and betrayals. The underlying love story was great with an unexpected love triangle thrown in, thankfully this love triangle wasn't cringe worthy. Then the ending... oh my... I was not expecting it to end that way and I need the next book.
Robin changed a lot in this book, it was evident the events of the previous 2 books had taken a huge toll on him. He was so unhinged in this book. There were times he was callous, but I could understand why. All the characters had great development here and the new characters too.
Even though I loved this book, there were many times I felt the chapters dragged slightly. However, I think this was just my personal reading preference of not liking super long chapters.
Overall, I highly recommend this book. I can't wait to get answers with the final installment and I know readers will love this.
December 3, 2024
What a rollercoaster!
Ive spent the last few amazing weeks of my life devouring this fantasy series and it's safe to say I don't regret a minute of it. Straight off the bat you can tell the dedication and time Ben put into this series. From the amazing world building that keeps you hooked to the unique magic system which I had fun learning about as I read along. Can we take a moment for the amazing characters that we get to meet along this journey... especially Robin who I grew quite an attachment too.
These three books were a wild journey that I never wanted to put down, adventure and action packed from the start each book led perfectly into the next and as I finished one book I immediately jumped right into the next. I love a good fantasy with some romance and while this was a plot heavy story there was still an amazing underlying romance sub plot that was super cute and enjoyable. You're most defiantly sleeping on this series if you haven't started it yet and if you're looking for something fun to read over the holidays then you need to add these three to your cart asap!
Ive spent the last few amazing weeks of my life devouring this fantasy series and it's safe to say I don't regret a minute of it. Straight off the bat you can tell the dedication and time Ben put into this series. From the amazing world building that keeps you hooked to the unique magic system which I had fun learning about as I read along. Can we take a moment for the amazing characters that we get to meet along this journey... especially Robin who I grew quite an attachment too.
These three books were a wild journey that I never wanted to put down, adventure and action packed from the start each book led perfectly into the next and as I finished one book I immediately jumped right into the next. I love a good fantasy with some romance and while this was a plot heavy story there was still an amazing underlying romance sub plot that was super cute and enjoyable. You're most defiantly sleeping on this series if you haven't started it yet and if you're looking for something fun to read over the holidays then you need to add these three to your cart asap!
January 24, 2023
I finally got around to reading this masterpiece. As you can see, it took me less than 24 hours to read, that was how sucked into this book I was. It is an EASY 5 stars from me, just like the previous two books in this series.
A Deception of Courts was exceptionally done. I adored the action and twists in this book. I welcomed every feeling the story washed over me from beginning to end - anxiety, tension, fear, passion, excitement, power, and dread. The plot takes you on a ride and I am HERE FOR IT.
It’s an amazing continuation of the last two books. The story really ramps up and you can FEEL the urgency in every page. Robin’s point of view is still immensely interesting and I found all the characters introduced were very fleshed out and fit into the story well. The development and sincerity between Robin and his friends and Duncan felt so real; and the rawness of Robin’s thoughts and emotions made the book and this realm feel alive. Every time I pick these books up I’m totally immersed, and I think that’s an exceptional feat from Ben.
There was a lot less spice✨ in this book compared to the others, and I honestly think it fit. Stakes were high the entire time, there was no time for it, and I VERY MUCH appreciated that it wasn’t forced into the story without reason.
This book is filled with shock and heartbreak. Robin can’t catch a break, as usual; and the cliffhanger is brutal!!!
I DID read this book quite fast so the majority of it felt like action, but I just couldn’t put it down, it was THAT good. The downtime between tense moments and action sequences were rare, however when they appeared it was wholly welcome- but still you couldn’t quite relax… ⭐️
🌀(((Blatant spoilers beyond this point! Please only read lower if you’ve read the book already, I just can’t keep quiet about what parts I really loved!)))🌀
The looming threat of Aldrick and Duwar going after the keys was felt from beginning to end— and that’s how you know you’ve got a great villain in your books.
The twist antagonist was who I was hoping it would be — but I didn’t realize just how deep the betrayal cut. Quite literally from the beginning of Aldrick leaving Lockinge with Jesibel, to when Robin, Althea and Raphaela were ambushed in Aurelia. ⭐️
I felt that the introduction of the Nephilim was very exciting, and I love the characters introduced - mainly Gabrial and Raphaela. I love that they have their own personalities and parts to play for the Creator; but as we realize towards the very end of the book, they had their own plan to stop The Defiler from ever returning.
Very exciting and strong characters, it felt like the slotted into the story very well. ⭐️
I knew before reading this book through Ben’s instagram that Erix would return, and it truthfully made me worry. Mainly because I fell in love with Duncan and Robin’s relationship in the previous book, they deserve each other 100 times over😭!!! I was pleasantly surprised at the route Ben took to reintroducing Erix. After Doran’s death in the previous book, his power over the Gryvern dissipated and he got his consciousness back. Mentally, he is fully himself. His love for Robin never faltered, and even though Robin swore to kill him the next time he saw Erix; he was always there. As his original job as Robin’s personal guard, I found this very fitting to his character. I love that Erix feels the guilt and despair of his actions when killing Robin’s father; and understands why their relationship will never be the same. I love that he can see clear as day that Robin loves Duncan, and so Erix protects him time and time again - for Robin’s sake.
I ADORE how real the relationships in this series feels. How Duncan wants Robin to hear Erix out because he saved his life, his trust in Robin when leaving him and his past lover alone together. I love how Raphaela vouched for Erix and his feelings and situation. The metaphor with the sword and the puppet was spectacular, and made me feel for him all over again.
Robin’s feelings towards Erix are justified no question about it, but the relief I felt when Robin admitted to Erix and himself that he still cares for Erix was real, and made my heart melt. ⭐️⭐️
A few side notes that I enjoyed ~
I really found it interesting that throughout this book Robin hardly feels like he’s a King, yet everyone around him respects him and his plan to save all of the kidnapped Fey and kill Aldrick. None of the other Fey Courts took this risk, and it was now or never. He is truly worth of his title.
I loved the parallels between Robin’s mother and father and him and Duncan. A Hunter falling for a Fey. Using the glamour to deceive The Hand. I hope nothing bad happens to Eroan! I love him. Just as Jesibel represented the Icethorn court for Robin, I think Eroan does so just as much.
I love how much Duncan and Robin’s relationship was tested in this book. From Erix’s return to Kayne’s jealousy and closeness to Duncan. Robin battling with the memories of the last time he was in Berrow with Erix, but being fully confident that Duncan was his future. So that cliffhanger… please………. Let him survive what is to come….
This might be the only neutral thing I have to say about the story, but in the end when Robin was willingly giving his Key to The Gate; I found it a bit confusing to understand what was going on; especially since destroying the keys was a part of the plan not even the viewer knew about. However I don’t really see this in a negative light, because the point of view in this book is through Robin’s eyes. At the time, he was battling this great force, the Key draining his power. Of course his thoughts were scattered and maybe a bit confusing.
However the bit where Erix and Duncan disappear into the gate making the viewer think they were gone forever happened and then ended far too quick, imo!
A Deception of Courts was exceptionally done. I adored the action and twists in this book. I welcomed every feeling the story washed over me from beginning to end - anxiety, tension, fear, passion, excitement, power, and dread. The plot takes you on a ride and I am HERE FOR IT.
It’s an amazing continuation of the last two books. The story really ramps up and you can FEEL the urgency in every page. Robin’s point of view is still immensely interesting and I found all the characters introduced were very fleshed out and fit into the story well. The development and sincerity between Robin and his friends and Duncan felt so real; and the rawness of Robin’s thoughts and emotions made the book and this realm feel alive. Every time I pick these books up I’m totally immersed, and I think that’s an exceptional feat from Ben.
There was a lot less spice✨ in this book compared to the others, and I honestly think it fit. Stakes were high the entire time, there was no time for it, and I VERY MUCH appreciated that it wasn’t forced into the story without reason.
This book is filled with shock and heartbreak. Robin can’t catch a break, as usual; and the cliffhanger is brutal!!!
I DID read this book quite fast so the majority of it felt like action, but I just couldn’t put it down, it was THAT good. The downtime between tense moments and action sequences were rare, however when they appeared it was wholly welcome- but still you couldn’t quite relax… ⭐️
🌀(((Blatant spoilers beyond this point! Please only read lower if you’ve read the book already, I just can’t keep quiet about what parts I really loved!)))🌀
The looming threat of Aldrick and Duwar going after the keys was felt from beginning to end— and that’s how you know you’ve got a great villain in your books.
The twist antagonist was who I was hoping it would be — but I didn’t realize just how deep the betrayal cut. Quite literally from the beginning of Aldrick leaving Lockinge with Jesibel, to when Robin, Althea and Raphaela were ambushed in Aurelia. ⭐️
I felt that the introduction of the Nephilim was very exciting, and I love the characters introduced - mainly Gabrial and Raphaela. I love that they have their own personalities and parts to play for the Creator; but as we realize towards the very end of the book, they had their own plan to stop The Defiler from ever returning.
Very exciting and strong characters, it felt like the slotted into the story very well. ⭐️
I knew before reading this book through Ben’s instagram that Erix would return, and it truthfully made me worry. Mainly because I fell in love with Duncan and Robin’s relationship in the previous book, they deserve each other 100 times over😭!!! I was pleasantly surprised at the route Ben took to reintroducing Erix. After Doran’s death in the previous book, his power over the Gryvern dissipated and he got his consciousness back. Mentally, he is fully himself. His love for Robin never faltered, and even though Robin swore to kill him the next time he saw Erix; he was always there. As his original job as Robin’s personal guard, I found this very fitting to his character. I love that Erix feels the guilt and despair of his actions when killing Robin’s father; and understands why their relationship will never be the same. I love that he can see clear as day that Robin loves Duncan, and so Erix protects him time and time again - for Robin’s sake.
I ADORE how real the relationships in this series feels. How Duncan wants Robin to hear Erix out because he saved his life, his trust in Robin when leaving him and his past lover alone together. I love how Raphaela vouched for Erix and his feelings and situation. The metaphor with the sword and the puppet was spectacular, and made me feel for him all over again.
Robin’s feelings towards Erix are justified no question about it, but the relief I felt when Robin admitted to Erix and himself that he still cares for Erix was real, and made my heart melt. ⭐️⭐️
A few side notes that I enjoyed ~
I really found it interesting that throughout this book Robin hardly feels like he’s a King, yet everyone around him respects him and his plan to save all of the kidnapped Fey and kill Aldrick. None of the other Fey Courts took this risk, and it was now or never. He is truly worth of his title.
I loved the parallels between Robin’s mother and father and him and Duncan. A Hunter falling for a Fey. Using the glamour to deceive The Hand. I hope nothing bad happens to Eroan! I love him. Just as Jesibel represented the Icethorn court for Robin, I think Eroan does so just as much.
I love how much Duncan and Robin’s relationship was tested in this book. From Erix’s return to Kayne’s jealousy and closeness to Duncan. Robin battling with the memories of the last time he was in Berrow with Erix, but being fully confident that Duncan was his future. So that cliffhanger… please………. Let him survive what is to come….
This might be the only neutral thing I have to say about the story, but in the end when Robin was willingly giving his Key to The Gate; I found it a bit confusing to understand what was going on; especially since destroying the keys was a part of the plan not even the viewer knew about. However I don’t really see this in a negative light, because the point of view in this book is through Robin’s eyes. At the time, he was battling this great force, the Key draining his power. Of course his thoughts were scattered and maybe a bit confusing.
However the bit where Erix and Duncan disappear into the gate making the viewer think they were gone forever happened and then ended far too quick, imo!
March 14, 2025
Thanks to Angry Robot Books and Netgalley for the ARC.
Deception is book 3 in the Realm of Fey series and things are getting intense AF!! The story picks up immediately after the events in book 2 and just steam right on through to the one heck of a cliffhanger ending!! I seriously should have seen this coming!! The events unfold fast and furious as new characters are introduced; new monsters come into play, and of course, there are betrayals afoot as well. Robin has to make some hard choices and is certainly growing into his role as the Icethorn king. Am looking forward to the final installment coming out soon and finding out who survives, who dies, and are we going to end up in a three-way relationship?? If so, let's goooooooooo!!!!
Deception is book 3 in the Realm of Fey series and things are getting intense AF!! The story picks up immediately after the events in book 2 and just steam right on through to the one heck of a cliffhanger ending!! I seriously should have seen this coming!! The events unfold fast and furious as new characters are introduced; new monsters come into play, and of course, there are betrayals afoot as well. Robin has to make some hard choices and is certainly growing into his role as the Icethorn king. Am looking forward to the final installment coming out soon and finding out who survives, who dies, and are we going to end up in a three-way relationship?? If so, let's goooooooooo!!!!
May 20, 2025
Okay this one took me a little while to get into. But after 150 I was hooked. The twist. My heart. Poor Robin. Everytime things get a little bitt good. It gets worse soooo much worse. But the ending. It’s good the 4th one is almost out. And I was accepted to arc read it. Otherwise I would be really mad.
BUT if anything happend to my boy Duncan in that one. I will raise hell.
Another masterpiece from Ben. Can’t wait to dive into his other series after this one.
BUT if anything happend to my boy Duncan in that one. I will raise hell.
Another masterpiece from Ben. Can’t wait to dive into his other series after this one.
October 5, 2025
This third book in the Realm of get series took the series to another level. Dealing with more of the bigger issue that has been growing in first books. The love story heats up with a return of an old lover and Robin’s current lover. I seriously cannot decide who I want him to end up with because I love them all so much. The ending is insane and I am so glad Book 4 is out now because that cliff hanger would have been brutal. Can’t wait to read the finale and see how this amazing, epic, never want to end series concludes. I cannot thank Ben enough for bringing to life this M|M fantasy romance series that is giving the same level as ACOTAR and throne of glass for me.
December 3, 2025
A terrific gay Romantasy with lots of twists, tension, battles, emotional scenes, loss, anger and betrayal.
It's the penultimate book with a big hook at the end and tonnes of heart and spice.
It's the penultimate book with a big hook at the end and tonnes of heart and spice.
January 22, 2025
Despite escaping The Hand's clutches, Robin Icethorn and his mismatched band of allies are determined to return and end his tyranny. But the risk to the Fey courts is even greater than they first realised, and death, destruction and darkness are never too far away...
I had thought this was the last in the series, but with that cliffhanger it hadn't better be! Seriously though, the latest in the 'Realm of Fey' series is full of gut punches; a real emotional rollercoaster! There is very little time for you to rest on your laurels; while the story doesn't progress at breakneck speed, it never leaves you with quite enough space to settle in to one emotion before throwing something else at the characters to take your feelings in a whole new direction. And when you finally get the the last few pages and are just waiting for a nice round off... yeah, I was not expecting that little plot twist!
The author has managed to keep all of his existing characters meaningful in this one, which is an improvement over last time. But in some respects he's almost gone too far the other way; by introducing more new characters that seem to hold all the answers, he's given himself a good tool for exposition and clarifying the 'rule change' in the world, but hasn't quite succeeded in making them a part of his world. I think I would have preferred seeing the existing characters discover this new lore by themselves, or from the elders of the Courts which have been introduced previously, but not yet played any more than a background role.
There were moments during the climax that I had to read a couple of times over just to make sure I had made sense of things correctly; the pivot points weren't always the easiest to follow, understanding precisely what was going on required that second glance and the consequences of the action was not always immediately clear in any event. I'm not sure if this is somewhat down to me being a little tired when reading, but I'd suggest that perhaps utilising the first person narrative that the author has employed to give a bit of internal monologue to the audience and clue them in on the character's secret plans might have been warranted in this case.
As there's no update on here as to when the next one will be released, I guess I'll just have to hold my breath until it appears! It's definitely a series I'm looking forward to continuing, and I Will absolutely be adding more of this author's work to my TBR shelf (an MLM Hades/Persephone retelling? I am so there!!!)
Edit 21/01/25 - Yay! I was right that it's not the last in the series! Can't wait for the next one!
I had thought this was the last in the series, but with that cliffhanger it hadn't better be! Seriously though, the latest in the 'Realm of Fey' series is full of gut punches; a real emotional rollercoaster! There is very little time for you to rest on your laurels; while the story doesn't progress at breakneck speed, it never leaves you with quite enough space to settle in to one emotion before throwing something else at the characters to take your feelings in a whole new direction. And when you finally get the the last few pages and are just waiting for a nice round off... yeah, I was not expecting that little plot twist!
The author has managed to keep all of his existing characters meaningful in this one, which is an improvement over last time. But in some respects he's almost gone too far the other way; by introducing more new characters that seem to hold all the answers, he's given himself a good tool for exposition and clarifying the 'rule change' in the world, but hasn't quite succeeded in making them a part of his world. I think I would have preferred seeing the existing characters discover this new lore by themselves, or from the elders of the Courts which have been introduced previously, but not yet played any more than a background role.
There were moments during the climax that I had to read a couple of times over just to make sure I had made sense of things correctly; the pivot points weren't always the easiest to follow, understanding precisely what was going on required that second glance and the consequences of the action was not always immediately clear in any event. I'm not sure if this is somewhat down to me being a little tired when reading, but I'd suggest that perhaps utilising the first person narrative that the author has employed to give a bit of internal monologue to the audience and clue them in on the character's secret plans might have been warranted in this case.
As there's no update on here as to when the next one will be released, I guess I'll just have to hold my breath until it appears! It's definitely a series I'm looking forward to continuing, and I Will absolutely be adding more of this author's work to my TBR shelf (an MLM Hades/Persephone retelling? I am so there!!!)
Edit 21/01/25 - Yay! I was right that it's not the last in the series! Can't wait for the next one!
February 6, 2025
So...if you've ever read shounen manga, there's always this power creep. You start off by fighting this big bad guy, but that means the next guy needs to be bigger and badder. The longer the series goes for, the higher the stakes have to be. It gets to the point at times where you're killing God and ascending the throne. It's just...at some point, you have to wonder what is actually happening anymore.
This is what this series has felt like to me. It's neither a negative or positive. It just is. It's purely preference and my preference skews away from it.
Robin hasn't improved for me as a main character. Things just happen to Robin. Robin is never proactive. At times he is, things tend to go horribly wrong because forward thinking is not his strong suit. Which is fine y'know? Not every character needs to be playing 4D chess.
It's just with all of this plus how petulant he is, I just don't really like him all that much.
I can't really feel the chemistry that Robin had with Duncan in this book too. So much of the book he spends pushing Duncan away for one reason or another. Ducan seems to like Robin much more than Robin likes Duncan.
Plus with Erix being back in the picture, there's some weird tension there. So I'm just wondering what exactly is gonna happen in the relationship.
That's one great thing though. Despite me not enjoying these books that much, I want to know what happens. You could say that's more valuable because it means that I'm going to read the fourth book.
My biggest gripe comes with the plot twist in this book. I feel like everyone except the characters could see it coming a mile away. Yet despite the characters thinking about it at times, they don't expect the betrayal. They never consider acting on their suspicions.
When there's so much at stake, it just feels foolish.
The pacing was off for me as well. There's a pacing of a bunch of things happening, then a bunch of talking, then things happening, then rinse and repeat until the end. This meant I read this book in bursts. I would read like sevens chapters, read one chapter the next day, and then like another seven chapters.
When things are happening, I'm tense and I wanna know what happens. When they're talking, I'm honestly kind of bored.
Regardless like, there's something to this series I do enjoy. Otherwise I wouldn't continue to read it. I'm not keen on reading more of Ben Alderson's work. Honestly, if the shounen manga comparison works for you, then give the series a try. This has to be read chronologically though so if you're reading this somehow, start with Betrayal of Storms.
This is what this series has felt like to me. It's neither a negative or positive. It just is. It's purely preference and my preference skews away from it.
Robin hasn't improved for me as a main character. Things just happen to Robin. Robin is never proactive. At times he is, things tend to go horribly wrong because forward thinking is not his strong suit. Which is fine y'know? Not every character needs to be playing 4D chess.
It's just with all of this plus how petulant he is, I just don't really like him all that much.
I can't really feel the chemistry that Robin had with Duncan in this book too. So much of the book he spends pushing Duncan away for one reason or another. Ducan seems to like Robin much more than Robin likes Duncan.
Plus with Erix being back in the picture, there's some weird tension there. So I'm just wondering what exactly is gonna happen in the relationship.
That's one great thing though. Despite me not enjoying these books that much, I want to know what happens. You could say that's more valuable because it means that I'm going to read the fourth book.
My biggest gripe comes with the plot twist in this book. I feel like everyone except the characters could see it coming a mile away. Yet despite the characters thinking about it at times, they don't expect the betrayal. They never consider acting on their suspicions.
When there's so much at stake, it just feels foolish.
The pacing was off for me as well. There's a pacing of a bunch of things happening, then a bunch of talking, then things happening, then rinse and repeat until the end. This meant I read this book in bursts. I would read like sevens chapters, read one chapter the next day, and then like another seven chapters.
When things are happening, I'm tense and I wanna know what happens. When they're talking, I'm honestly kind of bored.
Regardless like, there's something to this series I do enjoy. Otherwise I wouldn't continue to read it. I'm not keen on reading more of Ben Alderson's work. Honestly, if the shounen manga comparison works for you, then give the series a try. This has to be read chronologically though so if you're reading this somehow, start with Betrayal of Storms.
November 13, 2022
Thank you to Ben Anderson for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
A Deception of Courts takes place a few weeks after the events of the second book, introducing us back into the arc in the moments before Robin‘s first big move as the Icethorn King.
In this instalment, Robin has accepted his place in fey society and is ready to prove his worth and save his tortured people. Seeing Robin struggle not only against evil bad guys but also with self-doubt and especially feeling like an imposter was interesting. I thought this was particularly well done, especially in the middle/third act disaster of the book.
I also thought the way the animosity between Duncan and the fey was portrayed was interesting. Especially because of Duncan‘s new situation and the romantic relationship with Robin. The contrast to Kayne was very poignant too, but I can’t comment on that much more without spoilers.
The worldbuilding was expanded on quite a bit in this installment, we meet new characters from new places and new unfathomable evils. We get an explanation of where magic comes from and how it works. We see a lot more of the asps and of the Icethorn Court. This rounded out the already done worldbuilding well.
As always, the romance was ah-maze-ing. Obviously, Duncan is still there but we also see some new and old special friends ;D. There was a lot less spice in this book, because it was replaced with HEARTBREAK. This book was closer to game of thrones than to Blood and Ash. And the cliffhanger??? Ben wants to give us heart problems, I swear.
As always, I love queer fantasy and this book is no exception. It was fun, it was tragic, it was exciting. Expect to cry. Expect to laugh. Expect to finish the book and take a deep breath to deal with what you just read.
A Deception of Courts takes place a few weeks after the events of the second book, introducing us back into the arc in the moments before Robin‘s first big move as the Icethorn King.
In this instalment, Robin has accepted his place in fey society and is ready to prove his worth and save his tortured people. Seeing Robin struggle not only against evil bad guys but also with self-doubt and especially feeling like an imposter was interesting. I thought this was particularly well done, especially in the middle/third act disaster of the book.
I also thought the way the animosity between Duncan and the fey was portrayed was interesting. Especially because of Duncan‘s new situation and the romantic relationship with Robin. The contrast to Kayne was very poignant too, but I can’t comment on that much more without spoilers.
The worldbuilding was expanded on quite a bit in this installment, we meet new characters from new places and new unfathomable evils. We get an explanation of where magic comes from and how it works. We see a lot more of the asps and of the Icethorn Court. This rounded out the already done worldbuilding well.
As always, the romance was ah-maze-ing. Obviously, Duncan is still there but we also see some new and old special friends ;D. There was a lot less spice in this book, because it was replaced with HEARTBREAK. This book was closer to game of thrones than to Blood and Ash. And the cliffhanger??? Ben wants to give us heart problems, I swear.
As always, I love queer fantasy and this book is no exception. It was fun, it was tragic, it was exciting. Expect to cry. Expect to laugh. Expect to finish the book and take a deep breath to deal with what you just read.
July 2, 2024
I saw that in this series and one other series from this author, is that he skips like a whole part of the story, i would like to know what happened on the island when they escaped in the 2nd book and how they planned this shit.
Oh my god can Robin stop blaming Erix HIS MIND WAS NOT HIS OWN i was hoping that the fae god would make his appearance in bool 3 but i think book 4 is the book for him to make his grand entrance and actually help his people. Tbh if i was getting as little sleep as Robin does i would also be a storm raging through town, what the fuck is wrong with Robin not even a thank you to the poor human jeez hes an asshole. Wow there is not a momet of peace i love it and hate it at the same time.
Oh my god can Robin stop blaming Erix HIS MIND WAS NOT HIS OWN i was hoping that the fae god would make his appearance in bool 3 but i think book 4 is the book for him to make his grand entrance and actually help his people. Tbh if i was getting as little sleep as Robin does i would also be a storm raging through town, what the fuck is wrong with Robin not even a thank you to the poor human jeez hes an asshole. Wow there is not a momet of peace i love it and hate it at the same time.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 9, 2023
Talk about fricken cliff hanger.
Loved the fast paced story and the world building in this book. Job well done!!
Character dynamics are beautiful.
Loved the fast paced story and the world building in this book. Job well done!!
Character dynamics are beautiful.
December 25, 2023
Stunning conclusion to a beautifully written trilogy. The world's mythos, the constant threat of some overarching evil, the romance element, the betrayals, all of it comes to a well crafted and unbelievable end. If you liked the first two books, you'll love this one.
Okay, I have since found out the book series is going to continue, even though I'd accept this as the perfect end, I can't wait to read the next book. *edited so I don't look like a complete fool*
Okay, I have since found out the book series is going to continue, even though I'd accept this as the perfect end, I can't wait to read the next book. *edited so I don't look like a complete fool*
January 8, 2024
MMC, King of the Winter Court, with his newfound power, must now help stop The Hand by searching for keys to free a demon god. He is quickly thrown out into a war of the Gods, a war he wants nothing to do with. He is no longer alone in the bloodline of the Winter Court. There's also a love triangle.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 7, 2025
True Rating: 3.25 - 3.5/5 Stars
Content/Trigger Warnings: Explicit sexual content (with improper lubricant), Death, Blood and gore, Violence, Magical mind control, Depictions of cult mentality, War (fighting and death)
"All things that hide in the shadows reveal themselves eventually. One way or another, it will come to light."
Review TL;DR
The world building and the romance are both very fast and unsubtle, but the development of the plot is in line with what readers have come across so far. There are some genuinely beautiful moments that help to offset some darker elements -and to elevate others. The ending does a great job at leaving a reader wanting more, even if it is predictable. Not a five star series, but one that you can read for enjoyment and just for the joy of reading a queer romantasy actually written by a man.
Full Review
By this point in the series, I'm resigned to the fact that it's never going to be a 5 star series for me. I knew it from book one, and every book after it has proven that. However, that doesn't mean I don't enjoy the series. "Three stars" doesn't mean "bad," for me, it just means the book isn't doing anything new or interesting for me. But a book can be "mid" and still be enjoyable at the right time.
This series continues to be enjoyable. A large part of that is most likely because I usually don't read romantasy books centered around fae. My preferred version of the fae is the original tricksters from traditional lore, such as in Seanan McGuire's "October Daye" series or Heather Fawcett's "Emily Wilde" trilogy. Reading about the different fae courts, powers, and politics in this series is interesting to me because it's not my norm -and there's nothing wrong with that.
I'm also enjoying seeing how the author builds up the world and the danger little by little. The first book definitely felt like an introduction, but this third book finally feels like the author had a strong feeling of where they wanted to go. There's a plan, a plot, and all the usual twists and turns that come with it. The twists are fairly predictable, but it's fairly easy to overlook that with how fast-paced and action-packed the story is.
Which is another thing I enjoy about this particular book: we're at a good balance of romance and fantasy. This isn't a romance novel pretending to be a fantasy; this is a fantasy with a heavy dose of lust and romance. Actually, this third book may have the least amount of physically romantic/lustful interludes of the series so far. There are plenty of verbal interludes, but none of them feel cheesy or overdone. And the romance is offset by the tension and darkness of the fantasy elements.
Another aspect done well is that the author has made the books darker bit by bit. The series started off dark in book one, but it's only gotten worse with every installment, bringing to mind the idea of "darkest before the dawn." This book brings those darker elements to the forefront, with characters having ulterior motives, plans going wrong, and the characters just really being put through it right up until the last page. The progression of growth feels very real and relevant with the plot, and I can appreciate it.
Robin continues to be an interesting main character; he's not all-powerful and suddenly able to do amazing feats. He's powerful, yes, but he also has his limits and I do appreciate that Alderson takes the time to let us know that. In fact, most of the characters have their limits and those are shown through the battle scenes.
Where this book goes wrong is more aspects of the romance and the worldbuilding.
On the romance front, it still feels severely insta-love. It's not fated mates (thank the gods), but the feelings developed very quickly in a short amount of time, and this makes it really hard to root for the main couple. While they do have some sweet moments, it isn't enough to make me overlook the fact that I never got to really see these two go through the yearning and fumbling stages. They just went from zero to a hundred in a few pages in book two. So when things happen in the plot here, I don't really feel much.
The worldbuilding is also lacking because nothing is ever hinted at. From book one, readers are only told about Wychwood (the fae lands) and Durmain (the human realm). So when we learned about a demon in book two, it was out of nowhere. The same is said of some new characters/beings introduced in this book. There HAD been hints of them, but in one conversation in book two that felt like a throwaway line because it was never hinted at again after that. It's almost like whiplash when something new is introduced because there had been no solid groundwork laid out before.
Still, overall, this is one of the best books in the series and the ending leaves me dying to know what happens in book four. This is a series that I will read again just for a good time, when I want a break from some other books, but that doesn't mean I don't enjoy it. I do still recommend that you check if you can borrow it from a library or another source first, just to make sure it's for you. And expect a lot of errors that editing overlooked; it seems to be an Angry Robot publishing issue.
Content/Trigger Warnings: Explicit sexual content (with improper lubricant), Death, Blood and gore, Violence, Magical mind control, Depictions of cult mentality, War (fighting and death)
"All things that hide in the shadows reveal themselves eventually. One way or another, it will come to light."
Review TL;DR
The world building and the romance are both very fast and unsubtle, but the development of the plot is in line with what readers have come across so far. There are some genuinely beautiful moments that help to offset some darker elements -and to elevate others. The ending does a great job at leaving a reader wanting more, even if it is predictable. Not a five star series, but one that you can read for enjoyment and just for the joy of reading a queer romantasy actually written by a man.
Full Review
By this point in the series, I'm resigned to the fact that it's never going to be a 5 star series for me. I knew it from book one, and every book after it has proven that. However, that doesn't mean I don't enjoy the series. "Three stars" doesn't mean "bad," for me, it just means the book isn't doing anything new or interesting for me. But a book can be "mid" and still be enjoyable at the right time.
This series continues to be enjoyable. A large part of that is most likely because I usually don't read romantasy books centered around fae. My preferred version of the fae is the original tricksters from traditional lore, such as in Seanan McGuire's "October Daye" series or Heather Fawcett's "Emily Wilde" trilogy. Reading about the different fae courts, powers, and politics in this series is interesting to me because it's not my norm -and there's nothing wrong with that.
I'm also enjoying seeing how the author builds up the world and the danger little by little. The first book definitely felt like an introduction, but this third book finally feels like the author had a strong feeling of where they wanted to go. There's a plan, a plot, and all the usual twists and turns that come with it. The twists are fairly predictable, but it's fairly easy to overlook that with how fast-paced and action-packed the story is.
Which is another thing I enjoy about this particular book: we're at a good balance of romance and fantasy. This isn't a romance novel pretending to be a fantasy; this is a fantasy with a heavy dose of lust and romance. Actually, this third book may have the least amount of physically romantic/lustful interludes of the series so far. There are plenty of verbal interludes, but none of them feel cheesy or overdone. And the romance is offset by the tension and darkness of the fantasy elements.
Another aspect done well is that the author has made the books darker bit by bit. The series started off dark in book one, but it's only gotten worse with every installment, bringing to mind the idea of "darkest before the dawn." This book brings those darker elements to the forefront, with characters having ulterior motives, plans going wrong, and the characters just really being put through it right up until the last page. The progression of growth feels very real and relevant with the plot, and I can appreciate it.
Robin continues to be an interesting main character; he's not all-powerful and suddenly able to do amazing feats. He's powerful, yes, but he also has his limits and I do appreciate that Alderson takes the time to let us know that. In fact, most of the characters have their limits and those are shown through the battle scenes.
Where this book goes wrong is more aspects of the romance and the worldbuilding.
On the romance front, it still feels severely insta-love. It's not fated mates (thank the gods), but the feelings developed very quickly in a short amount of time, and this makes it really hard to root for the main couple. While they do have some sweet moments, it isn't enough to make me overlook the fact that I never got to really see these two go through the yearning and fumbling stages. They just went from zero to a hundred in a few pages in book two. So when things happen in the plot here, I don't really feel much.
The worldbuilding is also lacking because nothing is ever hinted at. From book one, readers are only told about Wychwood (the fae lands) and Durmain (the human realm). So when we learned about a demon in book two, it was out of nowhere. The same is said of some new characters/beings introduced in this book. There HAD been hints of them, but in one conversation in book two that felt like a throwaway line because it was never hinted at again after that. It's almost like whiplash when something new is introduced because there had been no solid groundwork laid out before.
Still, overall, this is one of the best books in the series and the ending leaves me dying to know what happens in book four. This is a series that I will read again just for a good time, when I want a break from some other books, but that doesn't mean I don't enjoy it. I do still recommend that you check if you can borrow it from a library or another source first, just to make sure it's for you. And expect a lot of errors that editing overlooked; it seems to be an Angry Robot publishing issue.
February 12, 2025
Following in the footsteps of A Kingdom of Lies, Ben Alderson picks up just a short time later as Robin Icethorn and his new love interest, Duncan Rackley, navigate the impending chaos of Duwar, an otherworldly demon that Aldrick, the half-fey leader of the Hand, is on a quest to unleash upon the realms in the name of power in A Deception of Courts.
Action is immediate and intense as the group of fey linger in Lockinge with bated breath, waiting for Aldrick to flee his hideout after the betrayal of his closest followers, including the Children of the Asp, who are professional manipulators and assassins. Robin, intent on keeping his promise to free the fey from their lengthy imprisonment as sources of blood magic and power to feed Aldrick’s experimentations, is waiting for a sign to indicate the coast is clear, and Althea, badass fey princess that she is, is ready to burn everything to the ground in his name.
Anxiety, a constant companion, worms its way into Robin’s psyche as the plan goes through with unexpected ease, Robin in charge of an effort to free the fey from the confines of their long-term imprisonment and use. Freedom is a strong motivator, one that quickly becomes overwhelming under the care of a newly crowned king, with chaos resulting in runaways desperate to escape Adrick when given the opportunity to roam the world above the underground “utopia” is presented. Robin’s trepidation and fear leading up to the moments of chaos are well founded and relatable, adding depth to his character – a king just coming into maturity that is insecure, but desperate to find his footing, both as a leader and a wielder of exceptionally powerful ice magic by birthright.
The same momentum propels the journey forward as Robin makes it a mission to put a stop to Duwar’s full return with the help of the Children of the Asp, as well as a new, albeit reluctant ally in the Seraphim. Aldrick has been slowly building an army to obtain the keys required for Duwar’s return –keys necessary to power the gate between realms that will let the demon god into the world. The idea of the keys themselves was quite interesting, as were the unique abilities and weapons of the Seraphim which include the ability to read truths and the ability to read a person’s past, present, and future. To that end, though, the world-building could have potentially been a bit more developed, especially given the fantasy backdrop of the series.
The focus remains on the elemental magic of the courts – and here, Alderson continues to thrive. Magic is deadly. Magic is alive. Magic is a vivid, explosive force of nature, born of blood and birthright. Magic powers battles and provides power, and the one strength of this series is the detail with which Alderson choreographs fight scenes, weaving magic into the fabric of the characters and the flow of battle. And for a realm on the brink of disaster – there are ample opportunities to dive into fast-paced action: ambushes, betrayal, full-scale invasions – the characters are always in the middle of some life-or-death situation, often to the point of being abruptly (and frequently) disrupted during moments of hurt/comfort or intimacy.
Although the third book in the series is not as spicy as its predecessor, Alderson continues to write sex scenes with emotion and sensuality. While the language itself was not to my taste, Robin and Duncan are willing partners fueled by passion and trust. More than anything else, the plot prohibits intimacy in this case, and sex scenes were well paced, explicit and furthered helped to both solidify and deepen their relationship when they did occur. Duncan is an encouraging and supportive partner, the ultimately, the dynamic between he and Robin is full of understanding, affirmation, and hope, making it incredible sweet and swoon-worthy.
Ultimately, Ben Alderson pens an easy-to-read, compelling romantasy series that fills a gap in the current market by featuring a queer-normative cast and gay lead. The Realms of Fey series offers a unique take on elemental magic alongside a compassionate love triangle, making use of well-loved romance tropes to establish a complicated relationship dynamic between love interests, even if those relationships start with feelings of instant love and connection. In the end, Alderson promotes self-discovery and compassion in a loveable yet immature main character that undergoes multiple tests of strength, will, and perseverance that are productive, if a bit predictable.
That being said, I am looking forward to the conclusion and very much enjoyed the twist of a cliff-hanger and propulsive action that leads into the final book in the series, to be released in May: A Game of Monsters.
Action is immediate and intense as the group of fey linger in Lockinge with bated breath, waiting for Aldrick to flee his hideout after the betrayal of his closest followers, including the Children of the Asp, who are professional manipulators and assassins. Robin, intent on keeping his promise to free the fey from their lengthy imprisonment as sources of blood magic and power to feed Aldrick’s experimentations, is waiting for a sign to indicate the coast is clear, and Althea, badass fey princess that she is, is ready to burn everything to the ground in his name.
Anxiety, a constant companion, worms its way into Robin’s psyche as the plan goes through with unexpected ease, Robin in charge of an effort to free the fey from the confines of their long-term imprisonment and use. Freedom is a strong motivator, one that quickly becomes overwhelming under the care of a newly crowned king, with chaos resulting in runaways desperate to escape Adrick when given the opportunity to roam the world above the underground “utopia” is presented. Robin’s trepidation and fear leading up to the moments of chaos are well founded and relatable, adding depth to his character – a king just coming into maturity that is insecure, but desperate to find his footing, both as a leader and a wielder of exceptionally powerful ice magic by birthright.
The same momentum propels the journey forward as Robin makes it a mission to put a stop to Duwar’s full return with the help of the Children of the Asp, as well as a new, albeit reluctant ally in the Seraphim. Aldrick has been slowly building an army to obtain the keys required for Duwar’s return –keys necessary to power the gate between realms that will let the demon god into the world. The idea of the keys themselves was quite interesting, as were the unique abilities and weapons of the Seraphim which include the ability to read truths and the ability to read a person’s past, present, and future. To that end, though, the world-building could have potentially been a bit more developed, especially given the fantasy backdrop of the series.
The focus remains on the elemental magic of the courts – and here, Alderson continues to thrive. Magic is deadly. Magic is alive. Magic is a vivid, explosive force of nature, born of blood and birthright. Magic powers battles and provides power, and the one strength of this series is the detail with which Alderson choreographs fight scenes, weaving magic into the fabric of the characters and the flow of battle. And for a realm on the brink of disaster – there are ample opportunities to dive into fast-paced action: ambushes, betrayal, full-scale invasions – the characters are always in the middle of some life-or-death situation, often to the point of being abruptly (and frequently) disrupted during moments of hurt/comfort or intimacy.
Although the third book in the series is not as spicy as its predecessor, Alderson continues to write sex scenes with emotion and sensuality. While the language itself was not to my taste, Robin and Duncan are willing partners fueled by passion and trust. More than anything else, the plot prohibits intimacy in this case, and sex scenes were well paced, explicit and furthered helped to both solidify and deepen their relationship when they did occur. Duncan is an encouraging and supportive partner, the ultimately, the dynamic between he and Robin is full of understanding, affirmation, and hope, making it incredible sweet and swoon-worthy.
Ultimately, Ben Alderson pens an easy-to-read, compelling romantasy series that fills a gap in the current market by featuring a queer-normative cast and gay lead. The Realms of Fey series offers a unique take on elemental magic alongside a compassionate love triangle, making use of well-loved romance tropes to establish a complicated relationship dynamic between love interests, even if those relationships start with feelings of instant love and connection. In the end, Alderson promotes self-discovery and compassion in a loveable yet immature main character that undergoes multiple tests of strength, will, and perseverance that are productive, if a bit predictable.
That being said, I am looking forward to the conclusion and very much enjoyed the twist of a cliff-hanger and propulsive action that leads into the final book in the series, to be released in May: A Game of Monsters.
December 13, 2024
3.5 - ⭐⭐⭐ 💫
“The man I see before me is not the same one who told me he was frightened of the dark…”
“It’s not the dark that scares me anymore…I’m scared to death of losing those I care about…So…Do me a favour, and keep yourself alive.”
… “For you, I shall. Little bird.”
A Deception of Courts is the third installment in the adult mm romantasy series, Realm of Fey, which is a first person POV narrative following Robin Icethorn, King of the Ice Court, as he seeks to stop the arrival of the demon God Duwar. In order to do so he must find the keys that keep him locked away before his enemy, The Hand, does and it turns out he will have to join forces with unlikely allies to achieve this. Robin is forced to play a game of Gods he never wanted and as new and old flames shake up his world he soon realizes that there is no time for mistakes as every step forward will change his and his kingdom's lives forever.
Robin cannot catch a break!
Now that Robin has truly embraced his heritage he is determined to save his people but he has a big job on his hands. His kingdom is fractured and the threat to his world has grown so much larger. In addition to this burden he faces self doubt and a lot of unresolved feelings. We really get to see his struggle and journey in the book that draws you in.
Duncan also goes through quite a journey as well! He is forever changed by the events of the previous book and watching his struggle between the worlds was moving. He is desperate to hold friendships but he is committed to Robin and his cause.
There are other characters we get to explore here that shake up the world like Erix, Althea, and Kayne who we are familiar with. Erix, I think, went through the biggest changes here and I admittedly was moved by him; though I have no idea what is going to happen. There are new characters introduced who help open up the lore and there is definitely a more religious undertone here. I felt these characters helped highlight the war coming and the threat of the Gods.
In terms of spice I would place this at 1.5 spicy peppers out of 5 spicy peppers. There is spice earlier on in the novel but it is with an established couple. The spice isn't super detailed with more of a focus on feelings. The second half of the novel has little to no spice as there is more focus on the plot with things ramping up. I felt the romance here acted as a constant for the characters - a reminder of what they are fighting for and a motivator. I would like more intimacy but I understood there wasn't really space for it.
“One day, we will be sleepless for other reasons without a care or concern in the world.”
… “Say it again, and maybe I’ll believe you.”
The story itself has a lot going on but to boil it down Robin is on a race to stop The Hand from getting the keys that would free Duwar. At the same time he doesn't truly have a kingdom and so he needs to bring people together, save his people, and also juggle his current lover while his previous (changed) lover is in the wings (pun intended). The first half of the book is slow moving at times and the pacing did create issues for me with fast moving 10% and then a slow down 20-40% brought on my exposition of lore from new characters. That said, the final 30% has this excellent acceleration into conflict with mortal peril, tension, and a twist I was not expecting. All in all, I am incredibly excited for the next book but I am also sooo worried for the romance.
Ben really knows how to keep readers on their toes with each book! Thank you Angry Robots for this review copy!
“The man I see before me is not the same one who told me he was frightened of the dark…”
“It’s not the dark that scares me anymore…I’m scared to death of losing those I care about…So…Do me a favour, and keep yourself alive.”
… “For you, I shall. Little bird.”
A Deception of Courts is the third installment in the adult mm romantasy series, Realm of Fey, which is a first person POV narrative following Robin Icethorn, King of the Ice Court, as he seeks to stop the arrival of the demon God Duwar. In order to do so he must find the keys that keep him locked away before his enemy, The Hand, does and it turns out he will have to join forces with unlikely allies to achieve this. Robin is forced to play a game of Gods he never wanted and as new and old flames shake up his world he soon realizes that there is no time for mistakes as every step forward will change his and his kingdom's lives forever.
Robin cannot catch a break!
Now that Robin has truly embraced his heritage he is determined to save his people but he has a big job on his hands. His kingdom is fractured and the threat to his world has grown so much larger. In addition to this burden he faces self doubt and a lot of unresolved feelings. We really get to see his struggle and journey in the book that draws you in.
Duncan also goes through quite a journey as well! He is forever changed by the events of the previous book and watching his struggle between the worlds was moving. He is desperate to hold friendships but he is committed to Robin and his cause.
There are other characters we get to explore here that shake up the world like Erix, Althea, and Kayne who we are familiar with. Erix, I think, went through the biggest changes here and I admittedly was moved by him; though I have no idea what is going to happen. There are new characters introduced who help open up the lore and there is definitely a more religious undertone here. I felt these characters helped highlight the war coming and the threat of the Gods.
In terms of spice I would place this at 1.5 spicy peppers out of 5 spicy peppers. There is spice earlier on in the novel but it is with an established couple. The spice isn't super detailed with more of a focus on feelings. The second half of the novel has little to no spice as there is more focus on the plot with things ramping up. I felt the romance here acted as a constant for the characters - a reminder of what they are fighting for and a motivator. I would like more intimacy but I understood there wasn't really space for it.
“One day, we will be sleepless for other reasons without a care or concern in the world.”
… “Say it again, and maybe I’ll believe you.”
The story itself has a lot going on but to boil it down Robin is on a race to stop The Hand from getting the keys that would free Duwar. At the same time he doesn't truly have a kingdom and so he needs to bring people together, save his people, and also juggle his current lover while his previous (changed) lover is in the wings (pun intended). The first half of the book is slow moving at times and the pacing did create issues for me with fast moving 10% and then a slow down 20-40% brought on my exposition of lore from new characters. That said, the final 30% has this excellent acceleration into conflict with mortal peril, tension, and a twist I was not expecting. All in all, I am incredibly excited for the next book but I am also sooo worried for the romance.
Ben really knows how to keep readers on their toes with each book! Thank you Angry Robots for this review copy!
May 23, 2025
I just finished reading “A Deception of Courts” by Ben Anderson and I may still be in shock as I’m writing this review. Anyone who reads my reviews will know that I don’t write spoilers – especially when they’re significant. If you read Ben’s books then you know that there is always a significant spoiler (or two, or three, or a lot of trauma, or psychological damage – but I digress.)
The Realm of Fey series has been a magnificent journey so far – and the fourth book comes out in a matter of days now. “A Betrayal of Storms”, “A Kingdom of Lies” and a “A Deception of Courts” are already published. The fourth book, “A Game of Monsters” will be released on May 27th.
What I love most about these books is the way that Ben manages to create characters that are complex enough to really confuse my emotions. It takes skill to create a character, make the reader love them, do something to that character that changes them dramatically and leave the reader not knowing how to feel about them anymore. Ben is a genius when it comes to characters that are so steeped in duality that it becomes impossible to pull it all apart. The great thing about these kinds of characters is that they feel “real”. Real people are complex. We make challenging decisions, we let our emotions get the better of us, we make choices that don’t make sense – and all of these things happen to the characters in Ben’s books. The way these characters come to life on the page is really engaging. I really felt for them.
Robin, The King of the Winter Fey Court has grown so much over the course of these first three books. Born half-human and half-fey, he has always struggled to fits in. As this beautiful and emotional story unfolds, Robin continues to figure out the pieces of the puzzle that make up his being. With the emotion and frankness of his human side and the magical abilities he inherited from his fey mother – Robin has grown to become a force to be reckoned with. He is fiercely loyal, a strategist, a leader and someone who loves with his entire heart.
As Robin’s story unfolds, he gathers a found-family of sorts around him. Lovers, friends, enemies – all somehow manage to become a part of Robin’s inner circle. Sometimes, he makes deals with the devil in order to move forward towards his goal of a better world for the fey. He does what is necessarily with such commitment that is admirable and … sometimes .. blinding.
“A Deception of Courts” brings a huge storyline to a semi-conclusion while still managing to be a cliffhanger at the same time. Ben! You are too good at this. What began in book one has unraveled into an all-out battle to survive. I’m no longer ever sure what to expect from the fourth book but I am confident that Ben will come up with something that will make me cheer or cry or laugh – or most probably everything at the same time.
If you love fantasy series, I suspect you’ll love this series. If you love queer fantasy then this is the series for you.
Ben has become one of my favourite authors and I look forward to anything he writes in the future.
May 12, 2025
This review is also available at Grimoire Ink Reivews.
If you have not read the first two books in Ben’s Realm of Fey series, I strongly invite you to do so. Especially because this review will make even less sense without it.
And if you’re on the fence about starting it, here’s what I said about A Betrayal of Storms and A Kingdom of Lies.
I can’t remember if I said in my past reviews that it was all kicking off but even if I did, ignore it. This time it’s really all kicking off. And this time, Robin is at least bringing a party while he questionably storms the castle. You know what that is? Growth.
Memes aside, this daring rescue of the trapped fey we met in Kingdom ultimately leads us to our new unlikely band of friends: Nephilim. I say ‘friends’ but really they were sort of scrambling allies and made a truly terrible first impression. Like I am significantly less embarrassed about not doing the appropriate double kiss in France when I met someone following this book. Sure, I made a silly faux pax but I didn’t sink a whole ship in the middle of a jailbreak, now did I?
The Nephilim really drive forward this war of Gods. And I also think they really added a lot to the story. I loved the difference in their abilities, gifts, and how they were presented. We mainly see Rafaela for the story and I described her as the duality of the Nephilim, given she moves between her responsibility to the Creator and what has brought them there, and also ‘I’m gonna hammer smash out of this situation.’ Which is arguably a very valid way to get out of a situation. No notes.
It’s not just the Nephilim we get introduced to, but also a few more horrifying creatures that are just there to ruin everyone’s picnic. And by picnic, I kind of mean castle….and city….and ship…just anywhere they can ruin really. Consequently I feel like this really drove home how dangerous Duwar is. Thankfully, Robin has his friends and allies by his side. …And his ex. I’ve got to be honest, Duncan handles his current bf’s ex saving them and just being around with remarkable calm. I did also joke with Ben that given how everyone is pretty calm, civil, and in Erix case, still absolutely smitten, maybe we just get a nice health polycule. Robin can just strut around with these two mutated and powerful guys like ‘Don’t ever speak to me or my mutated and emotionally scarred boyfriends again!’ And I would be here for that.
Now speaking of emotional scarring, this is not the same spicy Realm of Fey we’ve come to expect. The stakes are higher now. Everyone is getting trauma. It’s like the worst giveaway ever. It made for an intense read at certain points, but after I just wanted to form up a circle and give everyone some hot chocolate. Especially my girl Althea. That was a bold choice from Ben about her. We have already had words and we will continue to have words. “Doesn’t Duncan go through a lot too in this?” It’s not about Duncan right now! I’m crushing on Althea!
I will end on two things which I hope will leave you rushing to get this book in your hands and underway: There is more than one deception happening in these courts. And Ben absolutely crushed it with that ending.
I will be diving into A Game of Monsters immediately for what I have complete confidence will be an explosive (maybe literally) ending to the series.
If you have not read the first two books in Ben’s Realm of Fey series, I strongly invite you to do so. Especially because this review will make even less sense without it.
And if you’re on the fence about starting it, here’s what I said about A Betrayal of Storms and A Kingdom of Lies.
I can’t remember if I said in my past reviews that it was all kicking off but even if I did, ignore it. This time it’s really all kicking off. And this time, Robin is at least bringing a party while he questionably storms the castle. You know what that is? Growth.
Memes aside, this daring rescue of the trapped fey we met in Kingdom ultimately leads us to our new unlikely band of friends: Nephilim. I say ‘friends’ but really they were sort of scrambling allies and made a truly terrible first impression. Like I am significantly less embarrassed about not doing the appropriate double kiss in France when I met someone following this book. Sure, I made a silly faux pax but I didn’t sink a whole ship in the middle of a jailbreak, now did I?
The Nephilim really drive forward this war of Gods. And I also think they really added a lot to the story. I loved the difference in their abilities, gifts, and how they were presented. We mainly see Rafaela for the story and I described her as the duality of the Nephilim, given she moves between her responsibility to the Creator and what has brought them there, and also ‘I’m gonna hammer smash out of this situation.’ Which is arguably a very valid way to get out of a situation. No notes.
It’s not just the Nephilim we get introduced to, but also a few more horrifying creatures that are just there to ruin everyone’s picnic. And by picnic, I kind of mean castle….and city….and ship…just anywhere they can ruin really. Consequently I feel like this really drove home how dangerous Duwar is. Thankfully, Robin has his friends and allies by his side. …And his ex. I’ve got to be honest, Duncan handles his current bf’s ex saving them and just being around with remarkable calm. I did also joke with Ben that given how everyone is pretty calm, civil, and in Erix case, still absolutely smitten, maybe we just get a nice health polycule. Robin can just strut around with these two mutated and powerful guys like ‘Don’t ever speak to me or my mutated and emotionally scarred boyfriends again!’ And I would be here for that.
Now speaking of emotional scarring, this is not the same spicy Realm of Fey we’ve come to expect. The stakes are higher now. Everyone is getting trauma. It’s like the worst giveaway ever. It made for an intense read at certain points, but after I just wanted to form up a circle and give everyone some hot chocolate. Especially my girl Althea. That was a bold choice from Ben about her. We have already had words and we will continue to have words. “Doesn’t Duncan go through a lot too in this?” It’s not about Duncan right now! I’m crushing on Althea!
I will end on two things which I hope will leave you rushing to get this book in your hands and underway: There is more than one deception happening in these courts. And Ben absolutely crushed it with that ending.
I will be diving into A Game of Monsters immediately for what I have complete confidence will be an explosive (maybe literally) ending to the series.
March 29, 2024
Book 3 on the Realm of Fey series - this has taken me longer to read, partially because I kept pausing to read other things, but I think the main reason is that I didn't want to reach the end and then have to wait an unspecified amount of time for the next and final book in the series! However, I joined Ben Alderson's discord server and have been talking to people there, and that alongside the amazing news about these books being republished by Angry Robot later this year motivated me to finally finish it!
This book picks up not long after where book 2 ended, which I was grateful for. I thought the tension between the humans and Fey was great, especially that of Kayne, being Duncan's best friend but clearly disapproving of Duncan's relationship with Robin. The twist that happened with this character was still not one I predicted though!!
The world expands a bit more with this book as well, as we visit some places that have previously only been mentioned, as well as return to places from precious books (not saying anything more as I don't want to spoil anything). There's also the return of some characters I didn't know would be back for book 3, which was great!!
This book is very much focused on the plot and the characters, and there seemed to be less spice in this one than the precious ones. I didn't mind that though, as I absolutely love the characters - Althea and Gyah are awesome, and of course I love Robin and Duncan, separately and together! There was so much drama in this book, with epic battle scenes, lots of death and destruction and heartache with it!!
And don't even get me started on the ending! I won't say a word because I still haven't finished freaking out about it - but Ben omg how is this gonna end in book 4?!??! 😱
Despite its 500 pages, once I was actually sat down and reading this book, it's gone really fast. I feel like that's the case with all of Ben Alderson's books though; they suck me in and I can't stop reading because I become utterly obsessed!! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5 again!!
This book picks up not long after where book 2 ended, which I was grateful for. I thought the tension between the humans and Fey was great, especially that of Kayne, being Duncan's best friend but clearly disapproving of Duncan's relationship with Robin. The twist that happened with this character was still not one I predicted though!!
The world expands a bit more with this book as well, as we visit some places that have previously only been mentioned, as well as return to places from precious books (not saying anything more as I don't want to spoil anything). There's also the return of some characters I didn't know would be back for book 3, which was great!!
This book is very much focused on the plot and the characters, and there seemed to be less spice in this one than the precious ones. I didn't mind that though, as I absolutely love the characters - Althea and Gyah are awesome, and of course I love Robin and Duncan, separately and together! There was so much drama in this book, with epic battle scenes, lots of death and destruction and heartache with it!!
And don't even get me started on the ending! I won't say a word because I still haven't finished freaking out about it - but Ben omg how is this gonna end in book 4?!??! 😱
Despite its 500 pages, once I was actually sat down and reading this book, it's gone really fast. I feel like that's the case with all of Ben Alderson's books though; they suck me in and I can't stop reading because I become utterly obsessed!! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5 again!!
April 13, 2025
Book 3 on the Realm of Fey series - this has taken me longer to read, partially because I kept pausing to read other things, but I think the main reason is that I didn't want to reach the end and then have to wait an unspecified amount of time for the next and final book in the series! However, I joined Ben Alderson's discord server and have been talking to people there, and that alongside the amazing news about these books being republished by Angry Robot later this year motivated me to finally finish it!
This book picks up not long after where book 2 ended, which I was grateful for. I thought the tension between the humans and Fey was great, especially that of Kayne, being Duncan's best friend but clearly disapproving of Duncan's relationship with Robin. The twist that happened with this character was still not one I predicted though!!
The world expands a bit more with this book as well, as we visit some places that have previously only been mentioned, as well as return to places from precious books (not saying anything more as I don't want to spoil anything). There's also the return of some characters I didn't know would be back for book 3, which was great!!
This book is very much focused on the plot and the characters, and there seemed to be less spice in this one than the precious ones. I didn't mind that though, as I absolutely love the characters - Althea and Gyah are awesome, and of course I love Robin and Duncan, separately and together! There was so much drama in this book, with epic battle scenes, lots of death and destruction and heartache with it!!
And don't even get me started on the ending! I won't say a word because I still haven't finished freaking out about it - but Ben omg how is this gonna end in book 4?!??! 😱
Despite its 500 pages, once I was actually sat down and reading this book, it's gone really fast. I feel like that's the case with all of Ben Alderson's books though; they suck me in and I can't stop reading because I become utterly obsessed!! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5 again!!
This book picks up not long after where book 2 ended, which I was grateful for. I thought the tension between the humans and Fey was great, especially that of Kayne, being Duncan's best friend but clearly disapproving of Duncan's relationship with Robin. The twist that happened with this character was still not one I predicted though!!
The world expands a bit more with this book as well, as we visit some places that have previously only been mentioned, as well as return to places from precious books (not saying anything more as I don't want to spoil anything). There's also the return of some characters I didn't know would be back for book 3, which was great!!
This book is very much focused on the plot and the characters, and there seemed to be less spice in this one than the precious ones. I didn't mind that though, as I absolutely love the characters - Althea and Gyah are awesome, and of course I love Robin and Duncan, separately and together! There was so much drama in this book, with epic battle scenes, lots of death and destruction and heartache with it!!
And don't even get me started on the ending! I won't say a word because I still haven't finished freaking out about it - but Ben omg how is this gonna end in book 4?!??! 😱
Despite its 500 pages, once I was actually sat down and reading this book, it's gone really fast. I feel like that's the case with all of Ben Alderson's books though; they suck me in and I can't stop reading because I become utterly obsessed!! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5 again!!
July 3, 2025
My brain is melting from this book. This is why I don’t start unfinished series! If I had to wait to get Book 4 - I would flip! I need a week to breathe, but at least it’s in my hands.
The plot! I love the introduction of the Nephilim. It was a creative way to introduce and subvert the crisis of faith arc from the 2nd book. I love a different take on creation myths/ancient beings.
The betrayal! The foreshadowing! The foreboding tension. Like some plot twists I could see coming but HOW they revealed themselves, I was flabbergasted. I also FELT for a certain character and understood their actions even though they sucked.
There were so many new characters introduced but they felt actualized and got these great character moments.
Althea you little minx. You know exactly what you’re doing.
I understand why Book 4 is 534 pages. There’s a lot that needs to be SORTED and fixed. I have complete faith this will stick the landing and if it does this will be a top fantasy series for me.
‘After tonight, I would need to bathe in the ocean for an eternity to rid myself of the feeling death left in its awake.’
‘I discovered the guilt. It had been hiding this entire time.’
“The Creator does not wish to force its presence on humans. Faith must be found, not forced.“
“Take that, keep it close, and remember it with what is coming.”
‘I didn’t need air in my lungs when my pure, undiluted power fuelled my body.
Let them come.’
The plot! I love the introduction of the Nephilim. It was a creative way to introduce and subvert the crisis of faith arc from the 2nd book. I love a different take on creation myths/ancient beings.
The betrayal! The foreshadowing! The foreboding tension. Like some plot twists I could see coming but HOW they revealed themselves, I was flabbergasted. I also FELT for a certain character and understood their actions even though they sucked.
There were so many new characters introduced but they felt actualized and got these great character moments.
Althea you little minx. You know exactly what you’re doing.
I understand why Book 4 is 534 pages. There’s a lot that needs to be SORTED and fixed. I have complete faith this will stick the landing and if it does this will be a top fantasy series for me.
‘After tonight, I would need to bathe in the ocean for an eternity to rid myself of the feeling death left in its awake.’
‘I discovered the guilt. It had been hiding this entire time.’
“The Creator does not wish to force its presence on humans. Faith must be found, not forced.“
“Take that, keep it close, and remember it with what is coming.”
‘I didn’t need air in my lungs when my pure, undiluted power fuelled my body.
Let them come.’
December 21, 2024
I love these books loads. They remind me of a queer “Throne of Glass”. Which is my favourite Romantasy series ever.
It’s getting harder to review these books without giving away the plot. So much has changed since Robin entered Wychwood near the beginning of “A Betrayal of Storms”. Robin is now a king and has Fey to lead. And although he has his insecurities and worries, he is also a strong leader and makes solid and sensible decisions. He is a character that I love and want the best for. Yet, he is surrounded by danger. And it’s just getting worse.
The stakes get higher in each book. I get so much adrenaline running through my body lwhile I’m reading. I don’t know how I’m going to cope in the final book, “A Game of Monsters”. I will probably need a good cry and a lie down when I’ve finished the series.
One of my favourite tropes is found family, and I adore the close group of people that Robin has established around himself. Their relationships are wonderful to read about and some of the scenes with the found family provide some light relief from the action.
This book is filled with twists and turns, like the other novels in the series. There are amazing action set pieces. And the balance between action and the development of character and relationships is perfect. Plus, there is some sizzling spice.
It’s getting harder to review these books without giving away the plot. So much has changed since Robin entered Wychwood near the beginning of “A Betrayal of Storms”. Robin is now a king and has Fey to lead. And although he has his insecurities and worries, he is also a strong leader and makes solid and sensible decisions. He is a character that I love and want the best for. Yet, he is surrounded by danger. And it’s just getting worse.
The stakes get higher in each book. I get so much adrenaline running through my body lwhile I’m reading. I don’t know how I’m going to cope in the final book, “A Game of Monsters”. I will probably need a good cry and a lie down when I’ve finished the series.
One of my favourite tropes is found family, and I adore the close group of people that Robin has established around himself. Their relationships are wonderful to read about and some of the scenes with the found family provide some light relief from the action.
This book is filled with twists and turns, like the other novels in the series. There are amazing action set pieces. And the balance between action and the development of character and relationships is perfect. Plus, there is some sizzling spice.
December 31, 2024
Okay, this book was a little all over the place. The first half of the book is very much just all action, fast paced, and has very little room to breathe. It does slow down in a few places but not for long.
The introduction of the Nephilim is kinda cool, and they carry a lot of the plot throughout the book.
Kinda disappointed we didn’t get much about Jesibel, considering she was the first person Robin met and trusted beneath Lockinge, you’d think they’d be better friends. Although he did have priorities about finding her, the fact that she only showed up at the very end and didn’t really have an ending was disappointing for me personally :( I liked her
I was kinda confused about the whole key things. Are the keys the same as the Fey’s power? Or are they separate? Now that Robin gave up his key, does he still have his Icethorn power or not, that wasn’t really made clear imo.
I was SO glad that Erix came back. Every single quote I wrote down from this book came from him. Imo, He is entirely redeemed and it annoys me that Robin doesn’t seem to still view him the same way. Yes Erix has changed physically, but his love for him hasn’t. Is Robin blind? Erix is RIGHT THERE 😭 He’s the best character and has the best development, I’m taking no questions.
Overall, it was alright. However, A Betrayal of Storms is still my favourite in this series.
The introduction of the Nephilim is kinda cool, and they carry a lot of the plot throughout the book.
Kinda disappointed we didn’t get much about Jesibel, considering she was the first person Robin met and trusted beneath Lockinge, you’d think they’d be better friends. Although he did have priorities about finding her, the fact that she only showed up at the very end and didn’t really have an ending was disappointing for me personally :( I liked her
I was kinda confused about the whole key things. Are the keys the same as the Fey’s power? Or are they separate? Now that Robin gave up his key, does he still have his Icethorn power or not, that wasn’t really made clear imo.
I was SO glad that Erix came back. Every single quote I wrote down from this book came from him. Imo, He is entirely redeemed and it annoys me that Robin doesn’t seem to still view him the same way. Yes Erix has changed physically, but his love for him hasn’t. Is Robin blind? Erix is RIGHT THERE 😭 He’s the best character and has the best development, I’m taking no questions.
Overall, it was alright. However, A Betrayal of Storms is still my favourite in this series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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December 31, 2025We start off almost exactly at the same geographical point where we left off. Information has been passed on, and The Hand is elsewhere.
I'm in! Let's rescue some Fae!
Our Robin still has a fair heart. Although... we still find him thinking about Erix. *sigh* Do not let Duncan know.
We find ourselves amongst surprising allies and unthinkable enemies. Can the ones the closest to us be trusted? Can we even defeat The Hand and destroy the portal before Duwar, a god of demons, comes through to make this the age of monsters?
“My life is yours.”
I still love our friends. Our sassy Althea, a force to be reckoned with.
Oh! And our Hunter, Duncan, who now has access to magic that should never have been his to use.
They fight, and they fight so hard. Will it be enough?
It boils down to the search of the keys. Who will find them first? Well, we first need to figure out what the keys look like to find them, don’t we?😉
Ready or not, here the darkness comes.
Ben? Ending a book like this? You are killing me!
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