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The Fae King Duology #1
A Spy's Fateful Bond
A Father kidnapped by Orcs.
A daughter willing to risk everything to save her Father’s life.
A handsome Fae King willing to do anything to win her heart.
Emilia leads a simple life with her half-brother and adoptive father. Until one day, a neighbouring Orc clan invades her peaceful life and kidnaps her father. They give her two either spy for them in exchange for her father's life, or they kill him on the spot. Afraid and hesitant, she chooses to become a spy for them.
But what she doesn't expect is a distraction from her task. One trip and one chance meeting with the Day Court King changes it all. It makes her question if returning to her humble life in the village is all she wants or if there is something more out there. The question is, will Emilia trust the King - who offers her everything- or will her fear of losing her family in the process make her give up on a dream she never knew she had?
A daughter willing to risk everything to save her Father’s life.
A handsome Fae King willing to do anything to win her heart.
Emilia leads a simple life with her half-brother and adoptive father. Until one day, a neighbouring Orc clan invades her peaceful life and kidnaps her father. They give her two either spy for them in exchange for her father's life, or they kill him on the spot. Afraid and hesitant, she chooses to become a spy for them.
But what she doesn't expect is a distraction from her task. One trip and one chance meeting with the Day Court King changes it all. It makes her question if returning to her humble life in the village is all she wants or if there is something more out there. The question is, will Emilia trust the King - who offers her everything- or will her fear of losing her family in the process make her give up on a dream she never knew she had?
269 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 6, 2024
75 people are currently reading
679 people want to read
About the author
T.M. Goodkey
7 books48 followersMaking dwarves blush, orcs believe in love, and elves lose their cool - that's what TM Goodkey does best. Living in Ontario, Canada, she's beyond happily married with two beautiful children and a backyard full of chickens (which, according to her kids, definitely count as pets). An avid reader of ALL things magical/fantasy with a side of romance, TM has been a published Indie Author since May of 2024. She writes closed door romantasy filled with funny characters, swoony moments, and everything in between.
www.tmgoodkey.com
IG- @tmgoodkey
www.tmgoodkey.com
IG- @tmgoodkey
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
April 29, 2024
Swoon, that is this book swoon. Being a dark romance reader the stories go very dark but this book while the characters have some struggles it’s an overall cute story. It’s a good pre-qual I think for a challenging period, so gotta have the love/cuteness to get through those rough periods. Well that’s where I think book 2 is going….. so overall it was cute.
April 25, 2024
A Spy's Fateful Bond, the first installment in T. M. Goodkey's The Fae King Duology, offers a refreshing take on fantasy. It immerses you in a world teeming with humans, faes, and orcs, all vying for power and embroiled in political intrigue. At the heart of this captivating narrative is Emilia, a young woman who must navigate a dangerous game of survival and loyalty as she assumes the role of a spy for the orcs in a noble human family. Her life takes a dramatic turn when she enters the Day Court and encounters the enigmatic Day Court fae king.
Even though I'm not the biggest fan of instalove, I feel that T. M. Goodkey did a great job portraying the fated mates bond and how powerful it is. I enjoyed the banter and the way most side characters were essential to the story and not just there as decor. The romance was clean, without spice, and the author gave her characters time to explore their bond and not just jump blindly into it.
What will you find in A Spy's Fateful Bond?
✨ Faes, humans, and orc
✨ Political intrigue and thirst for power
✨ Fated mates
✨ Clean and sweet romance
✨ He falls first
✨ Touch her and d*e
✨ Winged characters
The first book has set a promising foundation, and I am eager to see how the story and characters evolve in the next installment 💜
Even though I'm not the biggest fan of instalove, I feel that T. M. Goodkey did a great job portraying the fated mates bond and how powerful it is. I enjoyed the banter and the way most side characters were essential to the story and not just there as decor. The romance was clean, without spice, and the author gave her characters time to explore their bond and not just jump blindly into it.
What will you find in A Spy's Fateful Bond?
✨ Faes, humans, and orc
✨ Political intrigue and thirst for power
✨ Fated mates
✨ Clean and sweet romance
✨ He falls first
✨ Touch her and d*e
✨ Winged characters
The first book has set a promising foundation, and I am eager to see how the story and characters evolve in the next installment 💜
April 29, 2024
This was a great read! I went in knowing nothing about it, and then I realized how hard it was going to be to put it down! For physical books, I try to only read to the 50% point in a day and the rest the next day. (I read multiple books, so I like to make sure I get to all of them.) I was so engrossed in this book that before I knew it, I was at the 70% marker! I reluctantly shut it down and opened my other book. I am looking forward to the second half of what I do believe will be a duology! I need it now!
April 16, 2024
I really enjoyed this book. Great world an character building, I am excited to see where the story will lead. I enjoyed the banter between the characters. I wonder if Emilia is full human or half night fae only time will tell.
This story includes night fae and Northern orc clan trying to get humans to fight against the day fae an Southern Orc clan. With a unlikely spirit bonded romance.
This story includes night fae and Northern orc clan trying to get humans to fight against the day fae an Southern Orc clan. With a unlikely spirit bonded romance.
April 22, 2024
Thank you so much for allowing me to ARC read this! Overall, this was an enjoyable romantasy; this would make a great introduction to the genre for new readers.
The world building was simple and not overly complicated- it made the storyline easy to follow. However, I think the readers are missing out on a lot of the details... the "why" to the story. We know who has allied with who, who is at war with who, etc... but there's no why. No background information. We also don't know much about the different locations in the world, other than where they're physically located. There are also some character details I would have loved to get into, such as the markings on Timas's body. What they are and why he has them, who else has them... etc. I truly just wanted MORE so I could feel as if I was fully immersed in the story.
The characters on their own were great. I especially enjoyed the banter between the characters; some of their interactions and dialogue were really humorous! However, I do feel as though there is no real chemistry between Timas and Emelia. The "spirit bond" made this an insta-love. While I may be a bit biased towards disliking the insta-love trope, I don't think there was any real substance drawing the main characters together other than this magical bond. They both think the other is attractive and loyal to those they love, but there was no draw or no tension between them. Timas looked at Emelia and told her he was going to make her his queen within 7 seconds of laying eyes on her. And Emelia seemed more obligated than willing to fall for him.
While the spelling and grammatical errors are to be expected (and easy to overlook) in an ARC, I do think some things distracted me from the story. When indicating a character's inner thoughts, it might be better to use italics to help distinguish from the normal storytelling (especially when those inner thoughts are in the middle of a paragraph). It might also help to have better indication of which character is speaking... the dialogues were often not followed with "said Timas"or something of the sort and it was hard to tell who was speaking. The writing felt unnatural and choppy in a lot of areas... if I may make a suggestion, I would say the writing needs to be more consistent. Use contractions or don't. Use modern language or use old-time language... same goes for the culture. Use present tense or use past tense- there were times where the tense was changing mid-sentence or mid-paragraph. I found myself needing to re-read several times throughout the book, but I think another round of editing could really help straighten things out!
Overall, this was a very creative and interesting book to read. I think the author has a talent for creating a good story. The ending felt a little abrupt... I know this is intended to be a series so readers will learn more as the story continues, but I felt like it was a bit of an awkward spot to end the book. I'm not sure I would continue with reading the series, but I wish the author nothing but the best as they continue in their journey! Congratulations on your debut book!
The world building was simple and not overly complicated- it made the storyline easy to follow. However, I think the readers are missing out on a lot of the details... the "why" to the story. We know who has allied with who, who is at war with who, etc... but there's no why. No background information. We also don't know much about the different locations in the world, other than where they're physically located. There are also some character details I would have loved to get into, such as the markings on Timas's body. What they are and why he has them, who else has them... etc. I truly just wanted MORE so I could feel as if I was fully immersed in the story.
The characters on their own were great. I especially enjoyed the banter between the characters; some of their interactions and dialogue were really humorous! However, I do feel as though there is no real chemistry between Timas and Emelia. The "spirit bond" made this an insta-love. While I may be a bit biased towards disliking the insta-love trope, I don't think there was any real substance drawing the main characters together other than this magical bond. They both think the other is attractive and loyal to those they love, but there was no draw or no tension between them. Timas looked at Emelia and told her he was going to make her his queen within 7 seconds of laying eyes on her. And Emelia seemed more obligated than willing to fall for him.
While the spelling and grammatical errors are to be expected (and easy to overlook) in an ARC, I do think some things distracted me from the story. When indicating a character's inner thoughts, it might be better to use italics to help distinguish from the normal storytelling (especially when those inner thoughts are in the middle of a paragraph). It might also help to have better indication of which character is speaking... the dialogues were often not followed with "said Timas"or something of the sort and it was hard to tell who was speaking. The writing felt unnatural and choppy in a lot of areas... if I may make a suggestion, I would say the writing needs to be more consistent. Use contractions or don't. Use modern language or use old-time language... same goes for the culture. Use present tense or use past tense- there were times where the tense was changing mid-sentence or mid-paragraph. I found myself needing to re-read several times throughout the book, but I think another round of editing could really help straighten things out!
Overall, this was a very creative and interesting book to read. I think the author has a talent for creating a good story. The ending felt a little abrupt... I know this is intended to be a series so readers will learn more as the story continues, but I felt like it was a bit of an awkward spot to end the book. I'm not sure I would continue with reading the series, but I wish the author nothing but the best as they continue in their journey! Congratulations on your debut book!
November 24, 2024
A clean fae romance. If you don't like insta-love, stay away. I had fun with this book. But I did have some problems.
1. The romance at first I thought was going to be different.
2. Some information was repeated too much or when not needed. Example we are told that Sonas is the Day Court's capital at 88%. We have already established this earlier in the book. We don't need to know again.
3. Some information wasn't given right away.
Other than these problems, I did enjoy the book. I had plenty of notes and highlights. I will give the second book a chance but not at the moment. Will put on the TBR for 2025.
1. The romance at first I thought was going to be different.
2. Some information was repeated too much or when not needed. Example we are told that Sonas is the Day Court's capital at 88%. We have already established this earlier in the book. We don't need to know again.
3. Some information wasn't given right away.
Other than these problems, I did enjoy the book. I had plenty of notes and highlights. I will give the second book a chance but not at the moment. Will put on the TBR for 2025.
May 6, 2024
I had the pleasure of reading this fantastic story by this author I recently discovered. There is a great combination of character development and world building in this story. I LOVED it!! I'm SO invested and I can't wait for more of Emilia and Timas!!
April 29, 2024
I love love this book! Did I stay up super late last night reading it and passed out? Umm yes, I was sucked into the world of humans, orcs, fae and spirit bonds. It was magical and amazing. Definitely going on my top ten reads for 2024
July 4, 2024
ARC review
A Spy’s Fateful Bond by TM Goodkey
Series: The Fae King Duology book 1
Genre: Fantasy Romance; Romantasy
Romance level: Closed door 2
Release date: May 6, 2024
Indie Published
Debut novel
My Favorite Parts:
The bit of suspense towards the end
Timas-swoony
Mysterious murders
This was my first book with the fae culture and overall I liked it. The plot made sense and the characters were enjoyable. I also liked the romance between Timas and Emilia; it was sweet and it was kisses only. It had a good ending, while also leaving some things unsolved to set up book 2(which is available on July 12, 2024). This isn’t a favorite book for me, but I still enjoyed it enough to give it 4 stars.
Why I gave it 4 stars:
Some parts dragged on.
There was a lot of dialogue and not enough action for a fantasy book (maybe there is a lot more in book 2?)
And Timas has some really cheesy lines.
Still overall, I would recommend if you are familiar with the fantasy fae culture and you like closed door romance. And for a debut novel, this was a solid good romantasy.
I received a complimentary copy of an ebook in exchange for my honest opinion. All thoughts are my own.
Content Warning: mild violence, kissing (deep kisses, no tongue), no exlicit or implied s*x, no swearing
Trigger Warning: kidnapping
A Spy’s Fateful Bond by TM Goodkey
Series: The Fae King Duology book 1
Genre: Fantasy Romance; Romantasy
Romance level: Closed door 2
Release date: May 6, 2024
Indie Published
Debut novel
My Favorite Parts:
The bit of suspense towards the end
Timas-swoony
Mysterious murders
This was my first book with the fae culture and overall I liked it. The plot made sense and the characters were enjoyable. I also liked the romance between Timas and Emilia; it was sweet and it was kisses only. It had a good ending, while also leaving some things unsolved to set up book 2(which is available on July 12, 2024). This isn’t a favorite book for me, but I still enjoyed it enough to give it 4 stars.
Why I gave it 4 stars:
Some parts dragged on.
There was a lot of dialogue and not enough action for a fantasy book (maybe there is a lot more in book 2?)
And Timas has some really cheesy lines.
Still overall, I would recommend if you are familiar with the fantasy fae culture and you like closed door romance. And for a debut novel, this was a solid good romantasy.
I received a complimentary copy of an ebook in exchange for my honest opinion. All thoughts are my own.
Content Warning: mild violence, kissing (deep kisses, no tongue), no exlicit or implied s*x, no swearing
Trigger Warning: kidnapping
April 29, 2024
A Spy's Fateful Bond, what can I say? Well, I went into this knowing nothing of it other than that I got sent it to read, hopefully enjoy, and review. When I say I enjoyed it, I truly mean it. The world's building is so amazing. With a world of fae, humans, and orcs what could go wrong? Besides, murder, political intrigue, power struggles, and romance nothing at all. The FMC is so loyal and caring that you can't help but love her and wish her all the happiness in the world. The MMC is so romantic and powerful that you can't help but swoon. The side characters have you smiling and laughing alongside them. They all feel so natural and fun that you can't help but read through this at an all-consuming pace. You simply need to know where they'll all end up. I can't wait for the second installment. Do yourself a favor and read this one.
June 18, 2024
What a beautiful story about love and family. I really enjoyed this book.
Emilia is made to become a spy for the people who kidnapped her father in order to save him. The love and devotion that she has for her father is conveyed so well throughout the book. As a daddy's girl, I really understood connected to those feelings. I loved the relationship between Emilia and Timas. I need the next book ASAP to keep reading their story. You also can't not love Milori (Timas' second in command). He is golden retriever energy. The banter he has with Timas is great.
This story includes fae, orcs, humans, politics, fated mates, and family. What more could you want? I cannot wait to read the next book.
Thank you for TM Goodkey who very kindly sent me a copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review.
Emilia is made to become a spy for the people who kidnapped her father in order to save him. The love and devotion that she has for her father is conveyed so well throughout the book. As a daddy's girl, I really understood connected to those feelings. I loved the relationship between Emilia and Timas. I need the next book ASAP to keep reading their story. You also can't not love Milori (Timas' second in command). He is golden retriever energy. The banter he has with Timas is great.
This story includes fae, orcs, humans, politics, fated mates, and family. What more could you want? I cannot wait to read the next book.
Thank you for TM Goodkey who very kindly sent me a copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review.
April 27, 2024
What an adventure! I can’t wait to see where the next book leads us.
This cozy romance will help you escape to a world filled not just by Humans but also Fae and Orc. Giving a new meaning to a blended family.
With witty banter between characters and relatable akward moments I definitely rode the roller coaster of emotions. There are characters I loved and others I had hoped would fall off a cliff. The balance between family obligation and romance left me wanting more each time I picked the book up.
Fair warning this book will make you laugh out loud while also making you think to yourself what would you do to save your family.
This cozy romance will help you escape to a world filled not just by Humans but also Fae and Orc. Giving a new meaning to a blended family.
With witty banter between characters and relatable akward moments I definitely rode the roller coaster of emotions. There are characters I loved and others I had hoped would fall off a cliff. The balance between family obligation and romance left me wanting more each time I picked the book up.
Fair warning this book will make you laugh out loud while also making you think to yourself what would you do to save your family.
February 14, 2025
really loved this story. I'm not usually a fan of fated love, instalove stories but the characters in this were so sweet together that it works. I love the character Emilia, she's very strong without necessarily being a warrior, which I like. Timas, the fae king is wonderful, normally I cringe when I read a male character just falling for the female character and announcing that she is his etc. but it works. The world the author describes is detailed and believable (in as much as a fantasy world is believable). I'm looking forward to reading the next one.
April 29, 2024
A beautifully written story . This story was fantastic with lots of action, adventure, families, friends, and swoon worthy moments . I was pulled into the story from the start with the lovely Emilia and Timas . The descriptions pull you into the story, as you are able to feel the emotions and anger but also are able to "see" the scenes come to life. A well done story that I can't wait to read book 2 and other stories from this great author .
March 7, 2025
Ahhhh this book was so good!
As a girl just starting her fantasy journey, this book was a breath of fresh air!!
This was kind of a more cozy fantasy, but it had suspense, and you could feel the emotions with the characters! And the tension with the romance? I’m here for it!!
And I’m a SUCKER for insta love 😍 Tamis is absolutely amazing and I can’t wait to read more about these characters!
I love how there were a few different types of people.. and they come together, putting their differences and usual behaviours aside to help others! Ughhhh this was just such a good read and I will continue to suggest this book! I don’t want to say more and give spoilers because you’ll want to read this book for the first time spoiler free :)
I look forward to reading more of TM Goodkeys books!! ❤️
As a girl just starting her fantasy journey, this book was a breath of fresh air!!
This was kind of a more cozy fantasy, but it had suspense, and you could feel the emotions with the characters! And the tension with the romance? I’m here for it!!
And I’m a SUCKER for insta love 😍 Tamis is absolutely amazing and I can’t wait to read more about these characters!
I love how there were a few different types of people.. and they come together, putting their differences and usual behaviours aside to help others! Ughhhh this was just such a good read and I will continue to suggest this book! I don’t want to say more and give spoilers because you’ll want to read this book for the first time spoiler free :)
I look forward to reading more of TM Goodkeys books!! ❤️
April 23, 2024
A fantastic first novel by TM Goodkey! A Spy’s Fateful Bond had me so lost in the book at some points, I had to stop and remind myself of reality. Her characters and banter are loveable, relatable, and humorous. Her story is light, yet captivating, leaving the reader excited for more. I look forward to reading the sequel!
June 6, 2024
5 ⭐️ - Action & Adventure Packed Book 📚
Such a well written book! Love the storyline with lots of adventure! The drama was also immaculate. The clean romance was such a nice touch! This will have your attention in the first chapter! I hated to see this end but there’s such potential to build from - from this ending!
Such a well written book! Love the storyline with lots of adventure! The drama was also immaculate. The clean romance was such a nice touch! This will have your attention in the first chapter! I hated to see this end but there’s such potential to build from - from this ending!
April 8, 2024
I just loved this.. I hope there a 2nd part.
There’s spy’s and kidnapping and murder… The fae king is trying to find out who is murdering the citizens… all the while he meets his spirit bond and helps rescue her father.
There’s spy’s and kidnapping and murder… The fae king is trying to find out who is murdering the citizens… all the while he meets his spirit bond and helps rescue her father.
January 30, 2025
The whole bond concept was odd. It was very insta-love but and I felt like the king kept repeating himself over and over to Emilia about their bond. I just wasn't a fan.
March 5, 2025
3.75…I liked this story! It was quick and easy to follow! Loved the banter between the characters!
April 15, 2024
This was such a good read. Clean for all ages. It has all the makings for a good romantasy. It has Fated Mates, fae, orcs, humans, spies, mystery, brink of wars, romance, a quest, things getting blown up, and royal balls.
I greatly enjoyed the dual pov. Seeing the situations unfurl from both of their perspectives helps you understand the spirit bond better. I love the different bonds in this world, especially the spirit bond between Timas and Emilia. He definitely has the “touch her and die” vibes.
I love all of the characters in this book and their chemistry with one another. The love, wit, and banter is fun to read.
Definitely worth the read. Can’t wait for the next book!
I greatly enjoyed the dual pov. Seeing the situations unfurl from both of their perspectives helps you understand the spirit bond better. I love the different bonds in this world, especially the spirit bond between Timas and Emilia. He definitely has the “touch her and die” vibes.
I love all of the characters in this book and their chemistry with one another. The love, wit, and banter is fun to read.
Definitely worth the read. Can’t wait for the next book!
dnf
September 24, 2024I wanted to like it, truly. However, the insta-love was very insta-love, if that makes sense. I don't usually mind insta-love, but I didn't like this one. To me, it felt shallow.
April 12, 2024
This upcoming #romantasy has all the things!
Fated Mates, Touch Her & 💀, Fae King, Orcs, Funny Banter, He Falls First, Loveable Side Characters, & Wings 😏
I read this book so fast! I couldn't put it down! I laughed out loud and loved that everything moved so quickly.
The energy from a few of the side characters gives "found family" vibes that I absolutely love 😍
Fated Mates, Touch Her & 💀, Fae King, Orcs, Funny Banter, He Falls First, Loveable Side Characters, & Wings 😏
I read this book so fast! I couldn't put it down! I laughed out loud and loved that everything moved so quickly.
The energy from a few of the side characters gives "found family" vibes that I absolutely love 😍
April 23, 2024
This is a fantastic light fantasy! There are Fae, Orcs, and Humans in a magical realm full of political intrigue. Low tension, no gore, and a clean romance. Nothing spicey or offensive. Some tropes: fated mates, cinnamon roll MMC, witty banter, he falls first, insta-love, dual POV. I can’t wait to read book 2!
June 20, 2024
I enjoyed this book! I didn’t know anything about it other than that it was clean and fae fiction. I didn’t realize the second book wasn’t out yet so now I need to read that one! Great, clean story, and the writing was not forced. I enjoyed it!
October 8, 2024
This is a cute book! Fated mates, Touch her and 💀, reunited family are all included, along with the antics of the King’s second in command for a good laugh. Can’t wait to see what comes next!
May 16, 2024
When I saw the book cover before it was released, I knew I wanted in. The cover called my name. It was so mesmerizing I immediately applied to be an ARC reader (after reading the blurb of course).
It's safe to say that this book cover did not disappoint with the book it's covering. Ahhh!
Okay okay... Let me start.
Emilia is a spy working as a lady's maid in a Duke's household. The lady she's serving is a total baggage I'd like to throw in the trash. She's extremely mean and rude to Emilia and everybody. But Emilia has to endure in order to save her father who was kidnapped.
Then she meets the Fae King. And everything changes.
Let me say I was thrilled and drawn into this world just by reading the first few pages. I loved the character already and was on my toes trying to decipher what she was doing at the time.
I loved the writing style, though it could get better. This is the writer's first work, she's got a lot more to write and it'll all flow better with time.
I'm not a fan of insta love. I loooove slow burn
And honestly, this novel would have been hotter if there was a slow burn.
Buuuttt, the fast paced rhythm is also fine. I love how quick to action Timas was.
I'd love to see more of their story, and I hope Emilia becomes a tough lady who wouldn't let her traumas bring her down.
Thank you dear Author, for making me like orcs. And their way of life seems appealing to me. I would love to see orc stories from you. And thank you for giving me an ARC copy of A Spy's Fateful Bond.
It's safe to say that this book cover did not disappoint with the book it's covering. Ahhh!
Okay okay... Let me start.
Emilia is a spy working as a lady's maid in a Duke's household. The lady she's serving is a total baggage I'd like to throw in the trash. She's extremely mean and rude to Emilia and everybody. But Emilia has to endure in order to save her father who was kidnapped.
Then she meets the Fae King. And everything changes.
Let me say I was thrilled and drawn into this world just by reading the first few pages. I loved the character already and was on my toes trying to decipher what she was doing at the time.
I loved the writing style, though it could get better. This is the writer's first work, she's got a lot more to write and it'll all flow better with time.
I'm not a fan of insta love. I loooove slow burn
And honestly, this novel would have been hotter if there was a slow burn.
Buuuttt, the fast paced rhythm is also fine. I love how quick to action Timas was.
I'd love to see more of their story, and I hope Emilia becomes a tough lady who wouldn't let her traumas bring her down.
Thank you dear Author, for making me like orcs. And their way of life seems appealing to me. I would love to see orc stories from you. And thank you for giving me an ARC copy of A Spy's Fateful Bond.
October 24, 2024
This book sounded so good when I ordered it. A clean fantasy romance with the fae, spying, and major fantasy elements, I loved that it had Orcs.
I also completely respect the author for her disclaimer about this being her first book and using Canadian English.
It’s definitely an adventurous thing to write a book for the first time and TM is doing first person POV for both MC’s. I love first person in the female main character but always hate a first person in the male. In my opinion, a male pov is rarely done well and feels too feminine in the thought processes of the story.
In the case of this story, I had trouble separating the female and male voices in the writing.
Dialog needed help too. It definitely could have done with an editor. Speech between characters feels forced and modernized. Sometimes dialog felt more play acting than true story. Using first names too many times to start a sentence. Just things we wouldn’t say in our own speech to others. It honestly feels like fan fiction half the time.
The meeting where Timas feels the bond didn’t feel natural and was written more awkward than romantic. It truly feels more like obsession than anything — throughout the rest of the story.
I did like the little getting to know each other moments of the story but at times it felt more formal or forced. Not enough flow to the plot was happening either. Just statements made and then moved on to the next scene. I kept reading just to see how it would wrap up.
Overall, overly cheesy moments and it needs more world building with fantasy elements but I definitely commend the author for writing her first book, it’s a huge deal to even finish at all, plus do three books in a series. ⭐️⭐️⭐️ three stars for that for sure.
I also completely respect the author for her disclaimer about this being her first book and using Canadian English.
It’s definitely an adventurous thing to write a book for the first time and TM is doing first person POV for both MC’s. I love first person in the female main character but always hate a first person in the male. In my opinion, a male pov is rarely done well and feels too feminine in the thought processes of the story.
In the case of this story, I had trouble separating the female and male voices in the writing.
Dialog needed help too. It definitely could have done with an editor. Speech between characters feels forced and modernized. Sometimes dialog felt more play acting than true story. Using first names too many times to start a sentence. Just things we wouldn’t say in our own speech to others. It honestly feels like fan fiction half the time.
The meeting where Timas feels the bond didn’t feel natural and was written more awkward than romantic. It truly feels more like obsession than anything — throughout the rest of the story.
I did like the little getting to know each other moments of the story but at times it felt more formal or forced. Not enough flow to the plot was happening either. Just statements made and then moved on to the next scene. I kept reading just to see how it would wrap up.
Overall, overly cheesy moments and it needs more world building with fantasy elements but I definitely commend the author for writing her first book, it’s a huge deal to even finish at all, plus do three books in a series. ⭐️⭐️⭐️ three stars for that for sure.
May 4, 2024
When Emilia’s father is kidnapped she is coerced in becoming a spy in the King’s court. When the court gets an invitation from the Fae King, she has no idea her life will change.
T.M. Goodkey has written a great novel with A Spy’s Fateful Bond. From the very first page I got pulled into the story and had a hard time putting it down. The writing style is flowing and fast paced and thanks to the dual Point of Views I was captivated. Emilia is a great character, she is very loyal. The handsome Fae King, Timas, is fantastic as well, he’s charming and has the touch her and die vibe all over him. He and Emilia have a great chemistry and he has to everything to convince her of the spirit bond between them. The banter between them and the banter between Timas and his best friend/second in command is a joy to read. That one is just an amazing character. And there are other characters you love to hate, all of which makes this book a mesmerizing read.
The world-building is amazing, there are different kinds of species and that made for an interesting world. The world we live in could learn a lot from this book.
A Spy’s Fateful Bond has surprised me, in a good way. I really loved reading this book. It is a clean light cozy romance fantasy story, with a good story-line, great world-building, humor and fantastic characters and with an engaging flowing writing style. I can’t wait to read the sequel!
T.M. Goodkey has written a great novel with A Spy’s Fateful Bond. From the very first page I got pulled into the story and had a hard time putting it down. The writing style is flowing and fast paced and thanks to the dual Point of Views I was captivated. Emilia is a great character, she is very loyal. The handsome Fae King, Timas, is fantastic as well, he’s charming and has the touch her and die vibe all over him. He and Emilia have a great chemistry and he has to everything to convince her of the spirit bond between them. The banter between them and the banter between Timas and his best friend/second in command is a joy to read. That one is just an amazing character. And there are other characters you love to hate, all of which makes this book a mesmerizing read.
The world-building is amazing, there are different kinds of species and that made for an interesting world. The world we live in could learn a lot from this book.
A Spy’s Fateful Bond has surprised me, in a good way. I really loved reading this book. It is a clean light cozy romance fantasy story, with a good story-line, great world-building, humor and fantastic characters and with an engaging flowing writing style. I can’t wait to read the sequel!
May 17, 2024
TM Goodkey's debut novel is an interesting read with creative fantasy elements and an insta-love story (at least on one side). The author does a great job of introducing her characters. The world building is there, but in some ways, it feels like the reader is just kind of dropped off in a world. Not all of the elements of the different groups (humans specifically) are explained. I personally didn't find this to be detrimental to the story in anyway, and was still able to enjoy the book. I look forward to the continuation of this love story and seeing what trials lay ahead for our characters. I also think the Author has set up the series beautifully to do some stories for side characters. Even though this book is a duology, it could definitely have a couple of spin offs. I'd love to see Milori as happy as Timas. There are a lot of enjoyable side characters to explore.
To me, this book could undergo another round of edits. I'm sure writing/editing/getting your book baby into the world is a difficult thing. This book has some great elements. Unfortunately, the errors were somewhat distracting. Overall, they did not take away my enjoyment from the story. I believe as the author continues to progress, her writing will improve. She already shows great talent, and I look forward to reading her next book!
To me, this book could undergo another round of edits. I'm sure writing/editing/getting your book baby into the world is a difficult thing. This book has some great elements. Unfortunately, the errors were somewhat distracting. Overall, they did not take away my enjoyment from the story. I believe as the author continues to progress, her writing will improve. She already shows great talent, and I look forward to reading her next book!
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