What do you think?
Rate this book
Starved
Once upon a time in a forgotten corner of a forgotten isle, grew a dark forest which housed an even darker demon who cannot be named…
For years, local villagers have blamed the Dark Forest for their hardships. But Méabh knows the true enemy lies across the sea in Ravensland – the neighbouring island which has colonized their homeland, Carraig an Chroí, for centuries. When blight sweeps over the isle crops are decimated, and a devastating famine ensues.
Yet the Ravenish still demand their tithes from the starving.
Unable to pay the rent, Méabh's cottage is burnt down. Having lost her family, her home and perhaps her sanity, she has nothing left to lose. On the brink of death, she stumbles into the Dark Forest, willing to give anything to survive – even her life.
There, she strikes a deal with the shadow-dwelling demon which will change her life quite literally forever.
Follow Méabh as she discovers her newfound existence comes with hunger for change and an appetite for retribution which cannot easily be sated.
For years, local villagers have blamed the Dark Forest for their hardships. But Méabh knows the true enemy lies across the sea in Ravensland – the neighbouring island which has colonized their homeland, Carraig an Chroí, for centuries. When blight sweeps over the isle crops are decimated, and a devastating famine ensues.
Yet the Ravenish still demand their tithes from the starving.
Unable to pay the rent, Méabh's cottage is burnt down. Having lost her family, her home and perhaps her sanity, she has nothing left to lose. On the brink of death, she stumbles into the Dark Forest, willing to give anything to survive – even her life.
There, she strikes a deal with the shadow-dwelling demon which will change her life quite literally forever.
Follow Méabh as she discovers her newfound existence comes with hunger for change and an appetite for retribution which cannot easily be sated.
- GenresFantasy
295 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 1, 2024
11 people are currently reading
84 people want to read
About the author
Naomi Kelly
6 books52 followersNaomi Kelly is an indie Irish author (currently living in Vancouver, Canada) who writes Fantasy Romance.
In May 2020, her most popular book 'Meraki: A Syren Story,' was released. This sparks the Syren Story world, where the sequel, Kairos: A Syren Story and the companion novel, Kalon: A Centaur Tailfollowed.
Her upcoming Historical Roman-tasy novel, STARVED releases this October! The haunting standalone novel full of heartbreak and hope follows one young woman's survival story in a reimagined fantasy version of the Irish Famine.
Follow her social media naomikellywriting to stay up to date with releases, giveaways and much more!
In May 2020, her most popular book 'Meraki: A Syren Story,' was released. This sparks the Syren Story world, where the sequel, Kairos: A Syren Story and the companion novel, Kalon: A Centaur Tailfollowed.
Her upcoming Historical Roman-tasy novel, STARVED releases this October! The haunting standalone novel full of heartbreak and hope follows one young woman's survival story in a reimagined fantasy version of the Irish Famine.
Follow her social media naomikellywriting to stay up to date with releases, giveaways and much more!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
December 14, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
A fantasy re telling of the Irish potato famine & Irelands subsequent fight for independence. I knew very little about the true story behind this period in time but reading this book peaked my interest to learn more (which I did afterwards).
The romance in this story was there, but barely. I mean this wasn’t just closed door, that door was bolted shut! I felt that it had so much potential to be a captivating romance but the focus was just not there. I mean, I appreciate that there was a serious sentiment to this book, but if you are going to tease me about a romantic connection I need to know more!!
That being said there was lots of sass, banter & humorous moments throughout that I really enjoyed.
It’s definitely a book for fantasy lovers, the names & phrases required some help from google and the beginning of this book had so much going on.
A fantasy re telling of the Irish potato famine & Irelands subsequent fight for independence. I knew very little about the true story behind this period in time but reading this book peaked my interest to learn more (which I did afterwards).
The romance in this story was there, but barely. I mean this wasn’t just closed door, that door was bolted shut! I felt that it had so much potential to be a captivating romance but the focus was just not there. I mean, I appreciate that there was a serious sentiment to this book, but if you are going to tease me about a romantic connection I need to know more!!
That being said there was lots of sass, banter & humorous moments throughout that I really enjoyed.
It’s definitely a book for fantasy lovers, the names & phrases required some help from google and the beginning of this book had so much going on.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 29, 2025
Naomi Kelly's Starved is a haunting historical fantasy that combines the grim realities of the Irish Famine with dark folklore. The story is set in the colonized land of Carraig an Chroí, following Méabh, a strong and resilient woman, who went into the Dark Forest after losing her family and home and strikes a deal with a demon that changes her life forever.
What I love about this book is how the historical context and dark fantasy is seamlessly blended, and showing the devastating impacts of colonization and famine in Ireland. I also loved that the author uses Irish language within the story, like their names and phrases. One phrase that I absolutely loved is 'a chuisle mo chroí' (pronounced "uh khwish-leh muh khree"), meaning 'pulse of my heart' which adds depth and meaning to the overall story.
The character development of both Méabh and the demon (The Dubhling) is compelling and very enjoyable to read - I loved reading their banter! The slow burn and chemistry between Méabh and The Dubhling is really good! I'd also never thought that I would love a demon MMC but here I am!
Starved is a beautifully written tale that combines the allure of fantasy with the truths of history. If you enjoy reading historical fiction and/or dark fantasy, this is a must-read!
Thank you for @bookwormsbookpr and Naomi Kelly for giving me an e-ARC!
What I love about this book is how the historical context and dark fantasy is seamlessly blended, and showing the devastating impacts of colonization and famine in Ireland. I also loved that the author uses Irish language within the story, like their names and phrases. One phrase that I absolutely loved is 'a chuisle mo chroí' (pronounced "uh khwish-leh muh khree"), meaning 'pulse of my heart' which adds depth and meaning to the overall story.
The character development of both Méabh and the demon (The Dubhling) is compelling and very enjoyable to read - I loved reading their banter! The slow burn and chemistry between Méabh and The Dubhling is really good! I'd also never thought that I would love a demon MMC but here I am!
Starved is a beautifully written tale that combines the allure of fantasy with the truths of history. If you enjoy reading historical fiction and/or dark fantasy, this is a must-read!
Thank you for @bookwormsbookpr and Naomi Kelly for giving me an e-ARC!
June 23, 2025
I found writing a succinct review of how much I adored this book to be challenging.
The prologue which starts off this book is excellent and one of the best examples I've read to date.
Even though you "know" what lies ahead at the beginning of the story based on the description of the book - it still pulls you in so hard you are almost surprised when certain intro events come to pass.
The dark folklore helps to take a small step away from this haunting historical fiction as it explores a retelling of the darkness that was the Irish Famine.
The romantic tension and yearning in this book are everything I want in a story. I loved the multiple love stories that are woven in, especially when the world of this story is steeped in so much darkness.
A recurring theme of the story is that "words have power" which in turn plays well into the story itself and its civil war aspects, as well as a theme in life overall.
This story has found a special place in my heart and is a favourite for sure.
The prologue which starts off this book is excellent and one of the best examples I've read to date.
Even though you "know" what lies ahead at the beginning of the story based on the description of the book - it still pulls you in so hard you are almost surprised when certain intro events come to pass.
The dark folklore helps to take a small step away from this haunting historical fiction as it explores a retelling of the darkness that was the Irish Famine.
The romantic tension and yearning in this book are everything I want in a story. I loved the multiple love stories that are woven in, especially when the world of this story is steeped in so much darkness.
A recurring theme of the story is that "words have power" which in turn plays well into the story itself and its civil war aspects, as well as a theme in life overall.
This story has found a special place in my heart and is a favourite for sure.
May 14, 2025
Book Review: Starved by Naomi Kelly
From the very beginning, Starved captured my attention—not just with its gripping plot, but with its stunning presentation. The cover art is absolutely gorgeous and perfectly sets the tone for the mystical, dark fantasy that follows. I also adored the map and the delicate artwork that starts and ends each chapter—such a charming, thoughtful touch.
The story opens in a world haunted by famine and death, and the return of the carriage to the Ravenish immediately reminded me of a fictional retelling of the Irish Potato Famine. I loved seeing Naomi Kelly weave threads of her own heritage into the fantasy world she’s built—it grounds the narrative in something deeply personal and culturally resonant.
From the outset, darkness looms. The early scenes are thick with grief and tension, but they’re masterfully written. I especially appreciated the flashback to when Méabh was five years old, just beginning to understand death and the unspeakable nature of the demon. There’s a definite “He Who Must Not Be Named” energy to this figure, and the influence of religious control and taboo over the Ravenish people adds another layer of depth. The Chroish, by contrast, are painted as freer—more human in a way—which makes the tension between the two groups even more compelling.
Despite the grimness of her world and the devastation she’s experienced, Méabh stands out as a beacon of strength. At just twenty, she’s a resilient and resourceful protagonist, doing what she can to survive. I have no doubt that this trait will lead her to greater power as the story unfolds.
Midway through, the story deepens in intrigue and emotion. I found myself wondering if the Dubhling visits Méabh in her dreams—taunting her, maybe preparing her for what’s to come. (Also, I did spot a small typo where “physical” might have been meant to be “physically,” during her first dreamlike venture into the dark forest.)
The vibes? Immaculate. Think The Vampire Diaries meets A Court of Thorns and Roses. It’s completely addictive. And the slow-burn romance? Oh, the tension! The dynamic between Méabh and the stark, mysterious Dubhling is electric. The line “I’m merely short of kneading my talons into him—making biscuits” had me chuckling. It’s playful, unexpected, and adds levity to an otherwise dark storyline.
What I love most is how the romance develops. It’s tender and genuine, surprising given the darkness that surrounds them. The contrast makes it all the more beautiful. Méabh and the Dubhling’s relationship adds warmth and heart to a story that doesn’t shy away from pain and cruelty.
Overall, Starved is a darkly enchanting, emotionally rich fantasy that masterfully blends folklore, romance, and resilience. Naomi Kelly has crafted something truly special here—equal parts haunting and heartwarming. I couldn’t put it down.
From the very beginning, Starved captured my attention—not just with its gripping plot, but with its stunning presentation. The cover art is absolutely gorgeous and perfectly sets the tone for the mystical, dark fantasy that follows. I also adored the map and the delicate artwork that starts and ends each chapter—such a charming, thoughtful touch.
The story opens in a world haunted by famine and death, and the return of the carriage to the Ravenish immediately reminded me of a fictional retelling of the Irish Potato Famine. I loved seeing Naomi Kelly weave threads of her own heritage into the fantasy world she’s built—it grounds the narrative in something deeply personal and culturally resonant.
From the outset, darkness looms. The early scenes are thick with grief and tension, but they’re masterfully written. I especially appreciated the flashback to when Méabh was five years old, just beginning to understand death and the unspeakable nature of the demon. There’s a definite “He Who Must Not Be Named” energy to this figure, and the influence of religious control and taboo over the Ravenish people adds another layer of depth. The Chroish, by contrast, are painted as freer—more human in a way—which makes the tension between the two groups even more compelling.
Despite the grimness of her world and the devastation she’s experienced, Méabh stands out as a beacon of strength. At just twenty, she’s a resilient and resourceful protagonist, doing what she can to survive. I have no doubt that this trait will lead her to greater power as the story unfolds.
Midway through, the story deepens in intrigue and emotion. I found myself wondering if the Dubhling visits Méabh in her dreams—taunting her, maybe preparing her for what’s to come. (Also, I did spot a small typo where “physical” might have been meant to be “physically,” during her first dreamlike venture into the dark forest.)
The vibes? Immaculate. Think The Vampire Diaries meets A Court of Thorns and Roses. It’s completely addictive. And the slow-burn romance? Oh, the tension! The dynamic between Méabh and the stark, mysterious Dubhling is electric. The line “I’m merely short of kneading my talons into him—making biscuits” had me chuckling. It’s playful, unexpected, and adds levity to an otherwise dark storyline.
What I love most is how the romance develops. It’s tender and genuine, surprising given the darkness that surrounds them. The contrast makes it all the more beautiful. Méabh and the Dubhling’s relationship adds warmth and heart to a story that doesn’t shy away from pain and cruelty.
Overall, Starved is a darkly enchanting, emotionally rich fantasy that masterfully blends folklore, romance, and resilience. Naomi Kelly has crafted something truly special here—equal parts haunting and heartwarming. I couldn’t put it down.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 25, 2025
“I may not believe in gods or demons, but I believe in me. I won’t give up, I won’t give in.”
I want to thank Bookworm Books PR and Naomi Kelly for this ARC 😍✨!
📖 Synopsis:
The narrative follows Méabh, who loses her home and family in Carraig an Chroí due to a famine. The villagers blame the Dark Forest for the crop failure, but Méabh knows the ones that caused it is their neighbouring island, Ravensland. As the Ravens demand payment from the starving villagers, Méabh enters the Dark Forest and makes a deal with the demon who lurks there that changes her life forever.
💭 My thoughts:
This was my first time reading a narrative inspired by Irish myths and I really enjoyed it! I’m more familiar with Norse and Greek mythology so this was definitely refreshing and eye-opening 🫶🏻.
I love how the story is littered with the Irish accent. There were many common phrases and words that were altered to phonetically suit the way how they would be pronounced in Irish; I ended up reading the whole thing with an Irish accent in my head! 😆🙌🏻
Méabh is an incredible FMC — she’s resilient, courageous and a rebel at heart (especially when she realises the bargain she makes with the demon wasn’t what she expected). 💖 She’s also quite sassy and not afraid to voice her opinions with the people around her.
The concept of founder x fledgling between Méabh and The Dubhling was fascinating and a take on the forced proximity and enemies to lovers trope that I don’t encounter often when reading 😍🖤! The slow burn was real between these two, and TENSION towards the end was: 🥵🔥!!
If you’re someone who loves reading about demons, powers, Irish myths or are looking for your next enemies to lovers story, definitely check this one out! 🙌🏻✨
Tropes in Starved:
✨ Demon MMC
✨ Enemies to lovers
✨ Forced proximity
✨ Defiant FMC
✨ Shadow welding abilities
✨ Irish myths
✨ Secrets
✨ Powers
✨ Magic
✨ Mythical creatures
I want to thank Bookworm Books PR and Naomi Kelly for this ARC 😍✨!
📖 Synopsis:
The narrative follows Méabh, who loses her home and family in Carraig an Chroí due to a famine. The villagers blame the Dark Forest for the crop failure, but Méabh knows the ones that caused it is their neighbouring island, Ravensland. As the Ravens demand payment from the starving villagers, Méabh enters the Dark Forest and makes a deal with the demon who lurks there that changes her life forever.
💭 My thoughts:
This was my first time reading a narrative inspired by Irish myths and I really enjoyed it! I’m more familiar with Norse and Greek mythology so this was definitely refreshing and eye-opening 🫶🏻.
I love how the story is littered with the Irish accent. There were many common phrases and words that were altered to phonetically suit the way how they would be pronounced in Irish; I ended up reading the whole thing with an Irish accent in my head! 😆🙌🏻
Méabh is an incredible FMC — she’s resilient, courageous and a rebel at heart (especially when she realises the bargain she makes with the demon wasn’t what she expected). 💖 She’s also quite sassy and not afraid to voice her opinions with the people around her.
The concept of founder x fledgling between Méabh and The Dubhling was fascinating and a take on the forced proximity and enemies to lovers trope that I don’t encounter often when reading 😍🖤! The slow burn was real between these two, and TENSION towards the end was: 🥵🔥!!
If you’re someone who loves reading about demons, powers, Irish myths or are looking for your next enemies to lovers story, definitely check this one out! 🙌🏻✨
Tropes in Starved:
✨ Demon MMC
✨ Enemies to lovers
✨ Forced proximity
✨ Defiant FMC
✨ Shadow welding abilities
✨ Irish myths
✨ Secrets
✨ Powers
✨ Magic
✨ Mythical creatures
January 19, 2025
Hi guys welcome back to another Honest Arc Review! Just remember that I say everything with love and to take my reviews on this series with a grain of salt. Let’s get into this rating.
I actually went in, not expecting much from this story but ended up decently liking it being a fantasy fan and all. It was actually very solid and the plot was there. I had two big issues with this book though — The Irish Slang was so hard for me to understand and I think this was written for people who understand it. With that being said, if I hadn’t read any of Chloe Walsh’s work, I think I’d DNF😳 However- I did know some and that’s all that mattered and that I finished it.
The plot is a romantasy re-telling of the Irish Potato Famine of an independent fmc, a demon king (TO BE FAIR I DID NOT SEE THAT IN THE DESCRIPTION AND IT WAS THERE AND TOTALLY TAKE ALL ACCOUNTABILITY FOR THAT AND WONT BE READING ANYTHING ALONG THESE LINES AGAIN. I WAS JUST EXCITED WHEN I GOT THE EMAIL, so I didn’t find him very attractive, he was also oddly feminine and reminded of Cardan from the cruel prince Just glad he wasn’t a cat this time) There was not much romance and came off more as a fantasy then a romantasy, and thats okay.
Overall, solid three stars. I personally would not re-read but that may be due to how much Irish culture was in here and I’m from America😅 If their grammar speaks with ‘ instead of “, please let me know and I will raise it to a four star!!! It was just very confusing alongside some of the words. Overall, solid read and would recommend for fantasy lovers and shout out to Naomi, she for sure killed this and knows her audience. I think I would enjoy some of her other work but this one was rough for me to understand and that’s okay! I’m not just doing it for me, these reviews are for you guys too💚💚💚💚 So my review may be way different from yours.
I actually went in, not expecting much from this story but ended up decently liking it being a fantasy fan and all. It was actually very solid and the plot was there. I had two big issues with this book though — The Irish Slang was so hard for me to understand and I think this was written for people who understand it. With that being said, if I hadn’t read any of Chloe Walsh’s work, I think I’d DNF😳 However- I did know some and that’s all that mattered and that I finished it.
The plot is a romantasy re-telling of the Irish Potato Famine of an independent fmc, a demon king (TO BE FAIR I DID NOT SEE THAT IN THE DESCRIPTION AND IT WAS THERE AND TOTALLY TAKE ALL ACCOUNTABILITY FOR THAT AND WONT BE READING ANYTHING ALONG THESE LINES AGAIN. I WAS JUST EXCITED WHEN I GOT THE EMAIL, so I didn’t find him very attractive, he was also oddly feminine and reminded of Cardan from the cruel prince Just glad he wasn’t a cat this time) There was not much romance and came off more as a fantasy then a romantasy, and thats okay.
Overall, solid three stars. I personally would not re-read but that may be due to how much Irish culture was in here and I’m from America😅 If their grammar speaks with ‘ instead of “, please let me know and I will raise it to a four star!!! It was just very confusing alongside some of the words. Overall, solid read and would recommend for fantasy lovers and shout out to Naomi, she for sure killed this and knows her audience. I think I would enjoy some of her other work but this one was rough for me to understand and that’s okay! I’m not just doing it for me, these reviews are for you guys too💚💚💚💚 So my review may be way different from yours.
May 26, 2025
“I was not created, nor born, I have merely always been. I am the space between the stars, the depth of the ocean where light cannot filter, and the never-ending darkness behind your eyes as you draw your last breath.”
Starved was a romantasy with historical elements (Irish potato famine and Irish revolution).
I enjoyed the history and Irish mythology as I didn’t know much about them before this!
I loved the direness and darkness of the setting. It really made me feel for the main character, Méabh, as she lost the members of her family to the famine.
My favorite part of the story was the romance. I love a good romance and there’s nothing like a:
☀️ Shadow Daddy
☀️ Morally grey MMC
☀️ Fated Mates
☀️ Slow Burn
☀️ (gentle) Enemies to Lovers
I think there was supposed to be an aspect of Found Family with the other fledglings, Elsie and Kerr, but it didn’t shine through as much as I would’ve liked.
As well, perhaps the slow burn was a little too slow (but maybe I just like more romance in a story than other people hehe 🤭). I really would’ve liked to see more romantic scenes between them!
Colonization is a difficult topic to weave into a story and I think Naomi Kelly did the best she could while still maintaining a YA romance 🥰
Starved was a romantasy with historical elements (Irish potato famine and Irish revolution).
I enjoyed the history and Irish mythology as I didn’t know much about them before this!
I loved the direness and darkness of the setting. It really made me feel for the main character, Méabh, as she lost the members of her family to the famine.
My favorite part of the story was the romance. I love a good romance and there’s nothing like a:
☀️ Shadow Daddy
☀️ Morally grey MMC
☀️ Fated Mates
☀️ Slow Burn
☀️ (gentle) Enemies to Lovers
I think there was supposed to be an aspect of Found Family with the other fledglings, Elsie and Kerr, but it didn’t shine through as much as I would’ve liked.
As well, perhaps the slow burn was a little too slow (but maybe I just like more romance in a story than other people hehe 🤭). I really would’ve liked to see more romantic scenes between them!
Colonization is a difficult topic to weave into a story and I think Naomi Kelly did the best she could while still maintaining a YA romance 🥰
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 5, 2025
Sent as an ARC by Bookwormbookspr
I genuinely do not have enough stars in the world to rate this book! This was an intense read from start to finish and I couldn't put it down!
Firstly I wanna talk about Méabh. What a genuinely badass, caring, deeply loving FMC she is! She is stubborn, she is sassy and I loved having her as the narrator!
The relationship between her and The Dubhling... my God! The tension between them was DELICIOUS!! You could feel the pining and the draw they had to each other. I love how The Dubhling tried so hard to stay away from her but they were so unbelievably drawn to each other right from the start. This is a slow burn romance so I spent the entire book going JUST KISS ALREADY!!
I love the civil war aspect going on in the plot and all the politics! It was amazing to see how all the side characters come together to fight in the war against Ravenland and the oppression of the people. It's so easy to get sucked into the drama of it all and feel as strongly about the injustice as all the characters.
A genuine joy to read and I'm so glad I signed up to be an ARC reader for this book. ♾️ stars!
I genuinely do not have enough stars in the world to rate this book! This was an intense read from start to finish and I couldn't put it down!
Firstly I wanna talk about Méabh. What a genuinely badass, caring, deeply loving FMC she is! She is stubborn, she is sassy and I loved having her as the narrator!
The relationship between her and The Dubhling... my God! The tension between them was DELICIOUS!! You could feel the pining and the draw they had to each other. I love how The Dubhling tried so hard to stay away from her but they were so unbelievably drawn to each other right from the start. This is a slow burn romance so I spent the entire book going JUST KISS ALREADY!!
I love the civil war aspect going on in the plot and all the politics! It was amazing to see how all the side characters come together to fight in the war against Ravenland and the oppression of the people. It's so easy to get sucked into the drama of it all and feel as strongly about the injustice as all the characters.
A genuine joy to read and I'm so glad I signed up to be an ARC reader for this book. ♾️ stars!
May 20, 2025
Got an advanced copy of Starved by Naomi Kelly and wow ... what a ride. The intro is absolutely heartbreaking. That kind of loss, that kind of hope dashed? It lingers. But the story moves quickly, so I didn't feel stuck in sorrow. Instead, the narrative kept pulling me forward.
Also, I really wish I knew how to pronounce Irish names properly. I still remember being thrown when I learned it’s Kill-ian Murphy and Ser-sha Ronan.
The Dubhling gave me total vampire energy: avoids sunlight, feeds on blood, always lurking in the shadows. When the story shifted from Méabh’s perspective to his (though only very briefly), I lit up. I wasn’t expecting it, since 99% of the book is from Méabh’s POV, but getting a small glimpse into his mind was a nice treat.
Naomi Kelly does such a beautiful job weaving the characters and storylines together. This one definitely got its hooks into me.
And wow, the one-liners in this book were great. Swipe for some of my favorite quotes.
Genre: paranormal fantasy
Rating: 4/5 stars
Also, I really wish I knew how to pronounce Irish names properly. I still remember being thrown when I learned it’s Kill-ian Murphy and Ser-sha Ronan.
The Dubhling gave me total vampire energy: avoids sunlight, feeds on blood, always lurking in the shadows. When the story shifted from Méabh’s perspective to his (though only very briefly), I lit up. I wasn’t expecting it, since 99% of the book is from Méabh’s POV, but getting a small glimpse into his mind was a nice treat.
Naomi Kelly does such a beautiful job weaving the characters and storylines together. This one definitely got its hooks into me.
And wow, the one-liners in this book were great. Swipe for some of my favorite quotes.
Genre: paranormal fantasy
Rating: 4/5 stars
February 1, 2025
This story follows Méabh as she struggles to survive the brutal famine of her land under the occupation of the colonizing Ravenish. She must choose between starving to death or choosing an undead life by making a deal with a shadow demon.
The story was excellent and is an amazing way for people to learn about the horrors of the Irish famine and subjugation of the Irish in a fantasy retelling. Naomi does an excellent job in using real world examples famous in Irish history as plot points in her book while making it work within her world.
The character's relationships feel genuine and the witty jokes lift the otherwise sad and oppressive times that Naomi beautifully describes; making you feel like it's a real historical event you're in.
The romance is well done, you could cut the tension with a knife; while the ending in satisfying.
Highly recommend for romance, fantasy and history lovers. A great way to learn about Irish history with the added fun of a new story!
5/5 ⭐
The story was excellent and is an amazing way for people to learn about the horrors of the Irish famine and subjugation of the Irish in a fantasy retelling. Naomi does an excellent job in using real world examples famous in Irish history as plot points in her book while making it work within her world.
The character's relationships feel genuine and the witty jokes lift the otherwise sad and oppressive times that Naomi beautifully describes; making you feel like it's a real historical event you're in.
The romance is well done, you could cut the tension with a knife; while the ending in satisfying.
Highly recommend for romance, fantasy and history lovers. A great way to learn about Irish history with the added fun of a new story!
5/5 ⭐
May 12, 2025
I found this book while doom-scrolling on Threads. Scrolled past. Wanted to go back. Couldn't find it. Remembered something about "dark fantasy" and "Ireland". Managed to summon it back. Read it.
It was amazing. Solid book.
It reads like a "dark" fairytale - I mean, it starts with Once upon a time. The characters are great, and their development throughout the story is on point. Their feelings - individual or for each other are well described. The book still has a dark side. This is a book with a strong view on colonialism, occupation etc... It does serve a purpose in the plot, but it's also much more than that. It's a strong political stand from the author.
Pick it up if you like:
- Strong FMC
- Old as a tale MMC
- Intriguing plot
- Strong bond between MCs
- Paranormal Romance (close door)
It was amazing. Solid book.
It reads like a "dark" fairytale - I mean, it starts with Once upon a time. The characters are great, and their development throughout the story is on point. Their feelings - individual or for each other are well described. The book still has a dark side. This is a book with a strong view on colonialism, occupation etc... It does serve a purpose in the plot, but it's also much more than that. It's a strong political stand from the author.
Pick it up if you like:
- Strong FMC
- Old as a tale MMC
- Intriguing plot
- Strong bond between MCs
- Paranormal Romance (close door)
May 17, 2025
Thank you to BookWorm Books PR and author Naomi Kelly for selecting me as part of the reviewer team for Starved.
Starved by Naomi Kelly is a gorgeously written, emotionally resonant dystopian fantasy that blends folklore, grief, and survival with startling intimacy. Set on an isle gripped by famine and superstition, the story follows Méabh, a young woman who has lost almost everything but refuses to give up, especially after discovering an abandoned baby on the edge of a dying world.
The voice in this book is sharp, haunting, and often poetic. Méabh’s narration carries both biting sarcasm and aching vulnerability, grounding readers in her heartbreak, hunger, and resilience. Kelly’s prose is deeply immersive, painting a grim yet strangely magical atmosphere that feels timeless and raw. You’ll find themes of loss, cultural erasure, and the tension between survival and hope.
Starved by Naomi Kelly is a gorgeously written, emotionally resonant dystopian fantasy that blends folklore, grief, and survival with startling intimacy. Set on an isle gripped by famine and superstition, the story follows Méabh, a young woman who has lost almost everything but refuses to give up, especially after discovering an abandoned baby on the edge of a dying world.
The voice in this book is sharp, haunting, and often poetic. Méabh’s narration carries both biting sarcasm and aching vulnerability, grounding readers in her heartbreak, hunger, and resilience. Kelly’s prose is deeply immersive, painting a grim yet strangely magical atmosphere that feels timeless and raw. You’ll find themes of loss, cultural erasure, and the tension between survival and hope.
June 2, 2025
There was little romance until nearly the end of the book, and what there was definitely wasn't spicy.
That being said, the story itself is interesting, it's different for the genre and it has a lot going for it with the plot points and characters. Coming from Ireland, I struggled with names and places provided in Irish, and ended up doing a lot of googling, a glossary would be really helpful here. She's tried really hard not to romanticise the actual famine here, but knowing the history of the country, and seeing the obvious in every renamed place and event was still hard to read.
The thing that really let it down for me was the amount of really obvious spelling errors and grammitical issues. It's clearly not classical literature, but it really pulled me out of the story when I came across blatant errors.
- read on Kindle Unlimited
That being said, the story itself is interesting, it's different for the genre and it has a lot going for it with the plot points and characters. Coming from Ireland, I struggled with names and places provided in Irish, and ended up doing a lot of googling, a glossary would be really helpful here. She's tried really hard not to romanticise the actual famine here, but knowing the history of the country, and seeing the obvious in every renamed place and event was still hard to read.
The thing that really let it down for me was the amount of really obvious spelling errors and grammitical issues. It's clearly not classical literature, but it really pulled me out of the story when I came across blatant errors.
- read on Kindle Unlimited
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 5, 2025
Kelly is a go-to author for me - her stories are always lush and evocative, and STARVED was no exception. Dark and sometimes desolate, we are thrust into the struggles of the Irish famine, re-told in a way that shows how desperate heroine, Maebh, became. Making a deal with the demon of the woods thrust her into a world where being starved takes on a whole new meaning. Hungering for something entirely abhorrent, Maebh fights against who she is becoming, as well as her growing feelings for the one who stole her heart.
Deliciously romantic, while sensitively dealing with the atrocities of the past, STARVED is a new favourite of mine and makes me even more keen to read about my own Irish ancestry.
Can't wait to see what Ms Kelly writes next.
Deliciously romantic, while sensitively dealing with the atrocities of the past, STARVED is a new favourite of mine and makes me even more keen to read about my own Irish ancestry.
Can't wait to see what Ms Kelly writes next.
December 24, 2025
This was an enjoyable and easy read. I would have appreciated a glossary with translations, or even a map of locations because it was sometimes difficult to place settings in relation to one another.
The story is very much a slow burn, but the shift at the end felt abrupt. It was as if they were suddenly in love, and I didn’t fully buy the transition. I wish that turn had been developed more thoughtfully.
I found myself disliking the MMC! His stubbornness was frustrating and felt unnecessary. I was surprised by the FMC. I don’t usually enjoy fantasy FMCs, but she wasn’t irritating. Her resilience felt admirable, and her vulnerability appeared at the right moments without tipping into melodrama.
I didn’t know it was supposed to be based on real history? Overall an easy and fun read.
The story is very much a slow burn, but the shift at the end felt abrupt. It was as if they were suddenly in love, and I didn’t fully buy the transition. I wish that turn had been developed more thoughtfully.
I found myself disliking the MMC! His stubbornness was frustrating and felt unnecessary. I was surprised by the FMC. I don’t usually enjoy fantasy FMCs, but she wasn’t irritating. Her resilience felt admirable, and her vulnerability appeared at the right moments without tipping into melodrama.
I didn’t know it was supposed to be based on real history? Overall an easy and fun read.
May 23, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️ not spicy
- SO DEEP
- SO DARK
- SO LOVELY
- so SAD
- BUT ITS SO GOOD SAD
- very very broody ancient spirit man
- ridiculously grumpy and fierce FMC
- HES BEEN WAITING FOR HER
- FOR FOREVER
- ARE YOU LISTENING
This is a beautifully and tragically written and beautiful love story. It’s set against the backdrop of Ireland during the Potato Famine and is full or righteous rage, revolution and a deep and long standing love.
I love them. I love these two together. I love how broody he is, how angry she is, how together they are the most bloodthirsty pair. HIGHLY RECOMMEND.
🌶️ not spicy
- SO DEEP
- SO DARK
- SO LOVELY
- so SAD
- BUT ITS SO GOOD SAD
- very very broody ancient spirit man
- ridiculously grumpy and fierce FMC
- HES BEEN WAITING FOR HER
- FOR FOREVER
- ARE YOU LISTENING
This is a beautifully and tragically written and beautiful love story. It’s set against the backdrop of Ireland during the Potato Famine and is full or righteous rage, revolution and a deep and long standing love.
I love them. I love these two together. I love how broody he is, how angry she is, how together they are the most bloodthirsty pair. HIGHLY RECOMMEND.
June 28, 2025
4.5 🌟 (gave a 5 above because without the editing errors, it would go up to a 5)
It's a challenge to tell a story in a setting of a famine and addressing heavy topics like colonisation, but this was written beautifully. The darkness of the story was well balanced by the charming characters. This book made me want to read up more on the history, which I did. As a non-Irish, I had to Google some of the terms but i was happy to do so.
Note: There are quite a number of editing errors on the Kindle Unlimited version of the book which i had to reread a few times.
It's a challenge to tell a story in a setting of a famine and addressing heavy topics like colonisation, but this was written beautifully. The darkness of the story was well balanced by the charming characters. This book made me want to read up more on the history, which I did. As a non-Irish, I had to Google some of the terms but i was happy to do so.
Note: There are quite a number of editing errors on the Kindle Unlimited version of the book which i had to reread a few times.
November 9, 2024
Not to be dramatic but I devour everything Naomi writes and would read her shopping list.
This is a touching and emotional book that has the forbidden romance trope and a head strong female lead who doesn’t take any s**t! I love the lead characters and want more!! The storytelling is brilliant and felt like something I have never read or experienced in a book before. I loved googling the lore that I learned from it and finding out how to actually pronounce the names!
This is a touching and emotional book that has the forbidden romance trope and a head strong female lead who doesn’t take any s**t! I love the lead characters and want more!! The storytelling is brilliant and felt like something I have never read or experienced in a book before. I loved googling the lore that I learned from it and finding out how to actually pronounce the names!
May 11, 2025
Wow, I really enjoyed reading this book. I liked the way it was written. The way it contains the Irish famine and colonialism is heartbreaking. The story was easy to follow and understand even tho I had some issues with the Irish pronunciation of the names (and sometimes with the words as well)😅🙈
Everything Méabh experienced (especially in the first Part of the book)… damn it definitely reached my heart 💗 the characters are loveable and the romance I liked very much 💕🥹
4/5 ⭐️
Everything Méabh experienced (especially in the first Part of the book)… damn it definitely reached my heart 💗 the characters are loveable and the romance I liked very much 💕🥹
4/5 ⭐️
April 11, 2025
Full Disclosure - I am an author and read Naomi's amazing book as a review swap! But I really loved it! I think it was extremely unique to have a fantasy centred around the Irish Potato Famine and found it a quick, fast-paced read! I loved the use of Irish Slang in this novel and enjoyed the dark, eerie vibes.
June 25, 2025
A stunning story, told so well. Naomi made the characters and story so beautifully, so relatable to the Irish reader and historically similar to Ireland’s turbulent past troubles. It was such a treat to read a book where my own accent could be applied to the main character! I loved it! It’s definitely in my top 10 favorite books.
November 10, 2024
stunning
This book blew me away. From the very beginning I was enthralled. Heartbreak and hope, life and death. Love in unlikely places. This story has so much depth and so much heart.
This book blew me away. From the very beginning I was enthralled. Heartbreak and hope, life and death. Love in unlikely places. This story has so much depth and so much heart.
December 12, 2024
Loved this!
This story was phenomenal! I loved all the Irish culture woven into this fantasy romance. The banter between the Dubhling and Maebh was witty and believable and I couldn’t get enough of their sweet romance!
This story was phenomenal! I loved all the Irish culture woven into this fantasy romance. The banter between the Dubhling and Maebh was witty and believable and I couldn’t get enough of their sweet romance!
December 11, 2025
A lovely historical fantasy. The integration of different culture and language/dialect took us through oppression, famnine and other struggles of both the living and unliving while discovering love lurking within the shadows.
January 1, 2025
This is so offensive. The Famine is not romance fodder.
August 19, 2025
Between 4,25⭐ and 4,5⭐
September 14, 2025
I cannot explain the itch this scratched in my brain!
I was so happy to read this historical fantasy based on the Irish famine. Being able to ARC read was such a blessing!
I was drawn in by the complex cast of characters with their problems and flaws. Méabh is so strong willed and stubborn in the best of ways and I love her for it! And let me just say the drama is *delicious*
Starved is a slower paced read and that is perfect for that rainy read with a cup of warm tea. Its historical connections and so well written and give complex POVs of those who experienced it and how they handled it. Simply a wonderful read.
I was so happy to read this historical fantasy based on the Irish famine. Being able to ARC read was such a blessing!
I was drawn in by the complex cast of characters with their problems and flaws. Méabh is so strong willed and stubborn in the best of ways and I love her for it! And let me just say the drama is *delicious*
Starved is a slower paced read and that is perfect for that rainy read with a cup of warm tea. Its historical connections and so well written and give complex POVs of those who experienced it and how they handled it. Simply a wonderful read.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews