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Fair Folk #2
A Crown So Silver
On a mysterious snowy island ruled by a trickster king where magic comes at a price, a deadly trial commences. The prize: a chance for vengeance.
After her sacrifice on the Ember Moon, Fia is flush with powerful magic and eager to rush into battle against her murderous sister, Eala. However, Fia’s new husband Irian suggests they bide their time and retreat to the Silver Isle, a snowy island at the edge of the fae world.
Ruled by the cunning smith-king, the Silver Isle proves far from a safe haven. Fia and Irian become embroiled in the Tournament of Kings competing for a magical forging of immense power. Their relationship will be put to the test as they navigate their conflicting motivations, shifting allegiances, and ancient magic.
With the end of the tournament looming and Eala’s threat growing, Fia must decide just how much she’s willing to sacrifice to defeat her sister.
After her sacrifice on the Ember Moon, Fia is flush with powerful magic and eager to rush into battle against her murderous sister, Eala. However, Fia’s new husband Irian suggests they bide their time and retreat to the Silver Isle, a snowy island at the edge of the fae world.
Ruled by the cunning smith-king, the Silver Isle proves far from a safe haven. Fia and Irian become embroiled in the Tournament of Kings competing for a magical forging of immense power. Their relationship will be put to the test as they navigate their conflicting motivations, shifting allegiances, and ancient magic.
With the end of the tournament looming and Eala’s threat growing, Fia must decide just how much she’s willing to sacrifice to defeat her sister.
496 pages, Paperback
First published January 21, 2025
222 people are currently reading
4904 people want to read
About the author
Lyra Selene
8 books627 followersLyra Selene was born under a full moon and has never quite managed to wipe the moonlight out of her eyes. She grew up on a steady diet of mythology, folklore, and fantasy, and now writes tall tales of twisted magic, forbidden romance, and brooding landscapes.
Lyra lives in New England with her husband and daughter, in an antique farmhouse that probably isn’t haunted. She is the author of the young adult duology AMBER & DUSK. A FEATHER SO BLACK is her adult debut.
Twitter: @LyraSelene
Instagram: @lyraselene
Lyra lives in New England with her husband and daughter, in an antique farmhouse that probably isn’t haunted. She is the author of the young adult duology AMBER & DUSK. A FEATHER SO BLACK is her adult debut.
Twitter: @LyraSelene
Instagram: @lyraselene
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 369 reviews
December 28, 2024
Thank you NetGalley and Orbit Books for this arc in exchange for an honest review!
DNF 28%
I took a gamble reading this one. I sort of liked the first one, but I liked what it was setting up for the second, so I was a little excited for this to take off. It...did not.
Both Fia and Irian go through something traumatic at the end of the first book, and they come back in this one, and Fia is totally pulling a Bryce in House of Flame and Shadow where she is either completely disregarding what Irian went through or just doesn't seem to care. She is snapping at him for the dumbest things, and she also has this dangerously arrogant mindset that she can do whatever she wants and doesn't need anyone else.
It also seems to be setting up ANOTHER love triangle, and that's usually an automatic no for me. So between that, Fia's ridiculous attitude, and her bad treatment of Irian, I am putting this to the side. I wasn't enjoying it and I was forcing myself to pick this back up.
And it's just such a shame, because the writing is really good. It's very lovely and just flows. And I think if readers like a lot of drama, tension, and love triangles, then this will still be enjoyable 🩵
DNF 28%
I took a gamble reading this one. I sort of liked the first one, but I liked what it was setting up for the second, so I was a little excited for this to take off. It...did not.
Both Fia and Irian go through something traumatic at the end of the first book, and they come back in this one, and Fia is totally pulling a Bryce in House of Flame and Shadow where she is either completely disregarding what Irian went through or just doesn't seem to care. She is snapping at him for the dumbest things, and she also has this dangerously arrogant mindset that she can do whatever she wants and doesn't need anyone else.
It also seems to be setting up ANOTHER love triangle, and that's usually an automatic no for me. So between that, Fia's ridiculous attitude, and her bad treatment of Irian, I am putting this to the side. I wasn't enjoying it and I was forcing myself to pick this back up.
And it's just such a shame, because the writing is really good. It's very lovely and just flows. And I think if readers like a lot of drama, tension, and love triangles, then this will still be enjoyable 🩵
Currently reading
December 2, 2025Gah!!! I was around 10% into this with 3 days left on my hold and I accidentally returned it when I thought I was renewing it. 😩 Now I potentially have to wait 4 weeks to get it back. 😢
December 1, 2025
“For the soft ones who were made to be hard,
and the hard ones who learned to be soft.”
This type of story serves as a reminder of why I love to read. The breathtaking prose, the sublime and disturbing magic, the thrill of ancient folktales brought to life in a new context.
First, a quick comment on the comparison to The Cruel Prince. If you’re looking for a similar story or another Cardan & Jude this is not it. The similarities lay in having roots in old Celtic fairy lore. The different types of fairy beings like druids and sprites, the wickedness of the folk and their penchant for sinister bargains, their duplicity and the binding magic of a geas. The story itself is more adult, dreamlike and ethereal, written in rich lyrical prose.
A Feather so Black was ultimately a story of self discovery, of self acceptance. As a half fae changeling abandoned in the human world, Fia’s existence was defined by people who only wanted to use her. Until she met Irian.
If AFsB was a journey of self discovery, A Crown so Silver is a fight to maintain every ounce of self that Fia reclaimed and sacrificed for. A promise to remain true to herself even at the cost of love and safety. Her execution is not necessarily graceful, frequently it feels completely reckless. Fia’s desire to use her power to mitigate the brewing war between humans and the folk causes frustration and distance between her and Irian.
Their love is fragile, forged from tragedy and necessity. They came together in the certainty of their impermanence, and their relationship is like a newborn fawn tottering on wobbly legs. Ready to be destroyed by the predator of their conflicting desires. Fia wants to save the world, Irian is ready to let it burn and wants to keep her safe. So, of course they don’t always express their feelings with each other.
The miscommunication trope is one of my least favorites, but here it is presented with enough compassion and opportunity for growth that even when it is painful I found it understandable. In fact, I love the compassion that Selene has for the complexity of her characters. Even when they are cruel and make heartbreaking decisions, there is enough insight to allow for empathy (usually).
I also love the theme that extreme power always has a cost. The idea that there is either a proportionate increase in corruption or a counterbalance of impermanence in gaining and wielding too much of it.
In general, if you love reimagined fairy folklore, complex layered characters, and lyrical writing this series is worth checking out. There are some negative reviews specifically on Fia’s character, but I think her behavior is justifiably explained in the end. I also read Selene’s statement that this middle story is a bridge, and to have patience. Personally I’m looking forward to the conclusion of this trilogy, which releases next month.
4.5⭐️’s kindle & audio
————————————————————————————
A Feather so Black seduced me with lush prose, Celtic fairy lore, and a haunting mystery of young women who are swans by day and human by night. The Cruel Prince meets Swan Lake, with Black Swan vibes. Here to find out what happens next 👀
and the hard ones who learned to be soft.”
This type of story serves as a reminder of why I love to read. The breathtaking prose, the sublime and disturbing magic, the thrill of ancient folktales brought to life in a new context.
First, a quick comment on the comparison to The Cruel Prince. If you’re looking for a similar story or another Cardan & Jude this is not it. The similarities lay in having roots in old Celtic fairy lore. The different types of fairy beings like druids and sprites, the wickedness of the folk and their penchant for sinister bargains, their duplicity and the binding magic of a geas. The story itself is more adult, dreamlike and ethereal, written in rich lyrical prose.
A Feather so Black was ultimately a story of self discovery, of self acceptance. As a half fae changeling abandoned in the human world, Fia’s existence was defined by people who only wanted to use her. Until she met Irian.
If AFsB was a journey of self discovery, A Crown so Silver is a fight to maintain every ounce of self that Fia reclaimed and sacrificed for. A promise to remain true to herself even at the cost of love and safety. Her execution is not necessarily graceful, frequently it feels completely reckless. Fia’s desire to use her power to mitigate the brewing war between humans and the folk causes frustration and distance between her and Irian.
Their love is fragile, forged from tragedy and necessity. They came together in the certainty of their impermanence, and their relationship is like a newborn fawn tottering on wobbly legs. Ready to be destroyed by the predator of their conflicting desires. Fia wants to save the world, Irian is ready to let it burn and wants to keep her safe. So, of course they don’t always express their feelings with each other.
The miscommunication trope is one of my least favorites, but here it is presented with enough compassion and opportunity for growth that even when it is painful I found it understandable. In fact, I love the compassion that Selene has for the complexity of her characters. Even when they are cruel and make heartbreaking decisions, there is enough insight to allow for empathy (usually).
I also love the theme that extreme power always has a cost. The idea that there is either a proportionate increase in corruption or a counterbalance of impermanence in gaining and wielding too much of it.
In general, if you love reimagined fairy folklore, complex layered characters, and lyrical writing this series is worth checking out. There are some negative reviews specifically on Fia’s character, but I think her behavior is justifiably explained in the end. I also read Selene’s statement that this middle story is a bridge, and to have patience. Personally I’m looking forward to the conclusion of this trilogy, which releases next month.
4.5⭐️’s kindle & audio
————————————————————————————
A Feather so Black seduced me with lush prose, Celtic fairy lore, and a haunting mystery of young women who are swans by day and human by night. The Cruel Prince meets Swan Lake, with Black Swan vibes. Here to find out what happens next 👀
February 4, 2025
I enjoyed the first book a lot more than this instalment. In A Feather So Black, the atmosphere was magical and enchanting. However, in this one, the writing seemed to be overly flowery, which I found distracting.
The main characters were not as strongly developed as in the first book. Communication with each other was lacking. Fia tends to act first and think later.
The pacing was also quite slow. I love tournaments and competitions in books, so I was looking forward to that aspect. However, the tournament didn’t start until halfway through, and it wasn’t what I was hoping for.
There is a lot of open-door spice.
Overall, this one didn’t have the magic of the first one. I’m not sure if I’ll be continuing with the series.
Thank you to Orbit for providing a copy to review.
The main characters were not as strongly developed as in the first book. Communication with each other was lacking. Fia tends to act first and think later.
The pacing was also quite slow. I love tournaments and competitions in books, so I was looking forward to that aspect. However, the tournament didn’t start until halfway through, and it wasn’t what I was hoping for.
There is a lot of open-door spice.
Overall, this one didn’t have the magic of the first one. I’m not sure if I’ll be continuing with the series.
Thank you to Orbit for providing a copy to review.
December 29, 2024
A book 2 in a trilogy is a bridge. No longer the beginning but not yet the ending. It is a chrysalis not yet fully transformed. It is an unfolding.
Have patience, grasshopper. I have so much in store for you!
Have patience, grasshopper. I have so much in store for you!
November 6, 2024
Thank you Lyra Selene and NetGalley for providing me with an arc! I am leaving this review voluntarily.
What to expect:
- Competition/trials
- More information on Irian’s past
- Intriguing plot
- Lots of tension/arguing in Fia and Irian’s relationship
- Powerful couple
- Spice 4/5 🌶️ beginning is 🥵🥵🥵
- BEWARE ⚠️ Cliffhanger
My thoughts:
I will start this review by saying that I did not enjoy the first half of the book. I honestly considered putting it down before reaching the 50% mark. Do I blame others for not finishing it early on? Not at all. I completely understand why someone would choose to stop reading at that point, and I almost did myself. The first half was grueling to get through. The main character, Fia, nearly drove me crazy. She comes off as immature and impulsive at the beginning and it's hard to accept this version of her.
Moreover, Fia and Irian's relationship deteriorated significantly. They spend an excessive amount of time arguing over the pettiest issues, and I found myself face-palming repeatedly. They managed to ruin their relationship in just two weeks, despite having been together for a year. In the realm of fantasy novels, a year is a substantial amount of time to build a relationship, so I struggled to understand how they could fall apart so quickly. These were two major disappointments, especially given how much I enjoyed them in the first book.
Just as I was about to give up on the book, I read a review that said something along the lines of, “In this book, you have to have patience. You need to give the author time to explain the reasons behind the characters' actions. You have to trust that the author knows what she’s doing.” Those words encouraged me to keep reading. I'm so glad I did; otherwise, I would have missed out on how good this book turned out to be.
Around the 50-60% mark, things took a turn for the better. Fia's actions started to be explained, which made the book significantly more enjoyable. We finally began to sympathize with her and understand her motivations. Additionally, we learned what went wrong in her relationship with Irian. With this new understanding, I found myself appreciating the book much more. It took me a week to get through the first half, but only a day to finish the second half. For this reason, I urge anyone thinking of putting the book down to reconsider—have patience and trust the author.
That being said, I'm still only giving this book four stars. While the second half was truly amazing, the first half diminished my overall enjoyment of the read. I will note that one aspect that remained consistently well-done throughout was the plot. I loved the competition aspect, although I wish Fia had participated more. Thanks a lot, Irian. 😒
Shout out to my favorite character, Wayland. I love you!!!! 😘
I recommend this book.
What to expect:
- Competition/trials
- More information on Irian’s past
- Intriguing plot
- Lots of tension/arguing in Fia and Irian’s relationship
- Powerful couple
- Spice 4/5 🌶️ beginning is 🥵🥵🥵
- BEWARE ⚠️ Cliffhanger
My thoughts:
I will start this review by saying that I did not enjoy the first half of the book. I honestly considered putting it down before reaching the 50% mark. Do I blame others for not finishing it early on? Not at all. I completely understand why someone would choose to stop reading at that point, and I almost did myself. The first half was grueling to get through. The main character, Fia, nearly drove me crazy. She comes off as immature and impulsive at the beginning and it's hard to accept this version of her.
Moreover, Fia and Irian's relationship deteriorated significantly. They spend an excessive amount of time arguing over the pettiest issues, and I found myself face-palming repeatedly. They managed to ruin their relationship in just two weeks, despite having been together for a year. In the realm of fantasy novels, a year is a substantial amount of time to build a relationship, so I struggled to understand how they could fall apart so quickly. These were two major disappointments, especially given how much I enjoyed them in the first book.
Just as I was about to give up on the book, I read a review that said something along the lines of, “In this book, you have to have patience. You need to give the author time to explain the reasons behind the characters' actions. You have to trust that the author knows what she’s doing.” Those words encouraged me to keep reading. I'm so glad I did; otherwise, I would have missed out on how good this book turned out to be.
Around the 50-60% mark, things took a turn for the better. Fia's actions started to be explained, which made the book significantly more enjoyable. We finally began to sympathize with her and understand her motivations. Additionally, we learned what went wrong in her relationship with Irian. With this new understanding, I found myself appreciating the book much more. It took me a week to get through the first half, but only a day to finish the second half. For this reason, I urge anyone thinking of putting the book down to reconsider—have patience and trust the author.
That being said, I'm still only giving this book four stars. While the second half was truly amazing, the first half diminished my overall enjoyment of the read. I will note that one aspect that remained consistently well-done throughout was the plot. I loved the competition aspect, although I wish Fia had participated more. Thanks a lot, Irian. 😒
Shout out to my favorite character, Wayland. I love you!!!! 😘
I recommend this book.
July 8, 2025
"Not in a thousand lifetimes will I ever let you go."
i literally gasped it ended like THAT??? omg what a cliffhanger im in pain. fia and irian truly cant catch a break damn😭 but wow what a sequel!! not only did i love this even more than i did A Feather So Black, but also this happens to be my first 5 star of 2025!! makes me so so happy🥹
i almost feel weird giving this 5 stars considering how many mixed reviews there are about how awful the first half was with the amount of fighting between fia and irian (which valid!!) but somehow that didnt affect my enjoyment at all?? it mightve helped a lot that i saw warnings about the many arguments that would occur, but i also think i just could see where each character was coming from? much as they frustrated me to no end and i kept screaming at my copy for them to just TALK to each other in certain situations, i felt more pain that fia and irian were fighting than annoyance (what can i say, im just too in love with these two idiots to stay mad at them for long🫠). oh did i want to throttle the two, especially for some *ahem* certain decisions but i honestly really love the way the author handled fia and irian's relationship!! it felt super realistic to me and in my opinion, i felt it contributed a lot for both of their character arcs and developments. but again, i definitely see why a lot would DNF or rate the book poorly because of this issue. in the end, my bias and overall love for fia and irian are probably what helped the most in me being able to bear the quarrels they had.
anyways! with that out of the way, wow did this book have me in a chokehold?? i had zero issues with the pacing, i genuinely couldnt stop reading and always craved to see what happened next. the tournament had an unexpected twist in the beginning which made me gasp and i actually really adore the route the author took because really how often does that usually happen in novels with tournaments the FMC is taking part in?? ive certainly not experienced another like that, and it definitely made for a unique situation!
there was honestly never a dull moment in this book for me. the new bonds that were formed as well?? truly loved them. shoutout to wayland, laoise, and especially sinead !! i love that girl SO much, even more so after a specific well done scene <3 what a queen, she was amazing. and you better believe some certain characters made me feel extremely murderous (we all know who im talking about..). AND LINN. MY FAV🥹 the aughiskies (aka water horses !!) were such an unexpected fun addition that i loved and the bonding there was an absolute favourite and so funny. also one of the twists i actually suspected from the beginning?? so that made me feel very proud of myself for guessing correctly LOL.
the writing as always was gorgeous and i was obsessed. not only were the descriptions of The Silver Isle so beautiful (to the point where i desperately wish i could go visit myself omg??) but there were so so many gorgeous lines i highlighted because wow truly they were amazing. and the romantic scenes??? yes fia and irian may have argued a lot but that doesnt mean we didnt get some sweet and wholesome scenes!!🥹 there were genuinely so many scenes i highlighted that made me grin like a lovesick idiot as if i was the one there hello??? its taking everything in me not to place them in this review but as this is an ARC i cannot do that (insta post featuring my fav scenes though WILL be coming after release date). and honestly i really love how i can appreciate the first half much more seeing how much it changed both of them for the better?? it's the saying "one needs to fall before they can rise" and i feel like that resonates here with their relationship? anyways they both may have screwed up at times, but you could truly still tell that they loved one another so much.
truly though fia and irian literally mean everything to me, theyve definitely made it to becoming one of my fav couples ever. i adore those two so much and i need their happily ever after ASAP. (that ending was absolutely cruel💔 im sending my therapy bills to the author for emotionally hurting me)
cant believe i have to now wait over a year for book 3?? maybe i need to go find myself a golden apple to bite... (iykyk😭)
Thank you Orbit Books for sending me an ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review!!
December 22, 2024
A Crown So Silver was an excellent sequel to A Feather So Black - one of my favorite reads of the last year. The writing has the same lush, dreamy quality, though this sequel does not have the same fairytale aspect that the first book had. I think this was natural, though. It felt much grittier and darker than book one, especially as Fia comes to grasp with her sister Eala's treachery and betrayal at the end of the last book. So many unanswered questions were addressed in this book, thank goodness. But Lyra Selene still has me questioning so much...
I was so happy that Fia and Irish went to the isle together because a lot of times, the main couple is separated for a big part at the beginning/middle of the second book. Their romance fell just the tiniest bit flat for me in this book though - there was a lot of petty arguing (which is natural) but it felt like going in circles again again and again. That said, their banter was excellent and considering how much of a strain their relationship was put through in this book, I shouldn't judge!
Initially I was uncertain how I felt about the change in setting, but I ended up loving the Silver Isle setting - the remote snow island was so captivating and beautifully described. Lyra Selene has the innate ability to entrance readers with her prose. Seriously, some of it reads like straight up poetry but in the best way possible. I definitely recommend this sequel, and for anyone that hasn't read A Feather So Black, go and pick it up!!
Thank you so much to Orbit and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this ARC! 📚
I was so happy that Fia and Irish went to the isle together because a lot of times, the main couple is separated for a big part at the beginning/middle of the second book. Their romance fell just the tiniest bit flat for me in this book though - there was a lot of petty arguing (which is natural) but it felt like going in circles again again and again. That said, their banter was excellent and considering how much of a strain their relationship was put through in this book, I shouldn't judge!
Initially I was uncertain how I felt about the change in setting, but I ended up loving the Silver Isle setting - the remote snow island was so captivating and beautifully described. Lyra Selene has the innate ability to entrance readers with her prose. Seriously, some of it reads like straight up poetry but in the best way possible. I definitely recommend this sequel, and for anyone that hasn't read A Feather So Black, go and pick it up!!
Thank you so much to Orbit and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this ARC! 📚
November 20, 2024
It did not live up to the first book. First 40% was fairly slow and then there was little to no conclusion at the end. Might update this review later but overall disappointed second book slump.
January 5, 2025
⭐️ 3
This was one of my most anticipated books of 2025 and to be rating it only 3 stars? I have to admit it hurts. I really, really enjoyed A Feather So Black. The writing was lush and beautiful and it truly transported me to another world and that is not lost entirely in this sequel but it is bogged down by just how slow the beginning is. It takes about 50% of the page count for the story to start picking up and as someone who is not usually against a slow character-centric crawl to action, that was too slow. By the time the plot began to get going, I was so taken out by the lack of urgency that I never truly got invested again. Oh, and then there's the petty fighting amongst the main couple. Fia was more prickly than normal this book, but not for any reason that I thought justified it.
The few romantic scenes we got between Fia and Irian were sweet. But overall, I was kinda meh about it all. The plot was alright. The characters were alright. I didn't have strong feelings in either direction despite my aforementioned irritation at the
This was one of my most anticipated books of 2025 and to be rating it only 3 stars? I have to admit it hurts. I really, really enjoyed A Feather So Black. The writing was lush and beautiful and it truly transported me to another world and that is not lost entirely in this sequel but it is bogged down by just how slow the beginning is. It takes about 50% of the page count for the story to start picking up and as someone who is not usually against a slow character-centric crawl to action, that was too slow. By the time the plot began to get going, I was so taken out by the lack of urgency that I never truly got invested again. Oh, and then there's the petty fighting amongst the main couple. Fia was more prickly than normal this book, but not for any reason that I thought justified it.
The few romantic scenes we got between Fia and Irian were sweet. But overall, I was kinda meh about it all. The plot was alright. The characters were alright. I didn't have strong feelings in either direction despite my aforementioned irritation at the
January 31, 2025
4.5 stars rounded down to 4 stars.
Wow....that was another very dramatic instalment in this series. All of our loved (and hated) characters returned, plus there are new friends along the way. There are so many twists and turns, spells of deceit from characters we didn't expect with love and lust aplenty.
Wow....that was another very dramatic instalment in this series. All of our loved (and hated) characters returned, plus there are new friends along the way. There are so many twists and turns, spells of deceit from characters we didn't expect with love and lust aplenty.
December 27, 2024
2.5 stars. Thank you to NetGalley and Orbit Books for this advanced copy. You can pick up A Crown So Silver on January 21, 2025.
This was one of my most anticipated sequels of 2025, and to say I was disappointed is an understatement. A Feather So Black was one of my top reads last year because of the lush writing, gorgeous magic and world, and compelling characters and romance. But all of the elements I loved most in the first book were sorely lacking in the second. Not only was it a departure from the Swan Lake fairytale, but the shift in direction for the story felt awkward and blunt.
Suddenly we're thrust into a new island with new creatures, characters, and magic at stake. I don't mind an expansion of the world, but this entire second book could have been a side quest in the concluding book for the series. We lost sight of the true villain, Eala, who barely had any page time despite being the overarching villain of the series. We see absolutely no forward progress with Rogan and his storyline, which seems to exist just to create drama for Irian and Fia.
Speaking of our main couple, I didn't appreciate the "character growth" we saw from them throughout this book. It felt like their relationship problems were used to drive the plot forward rather than grow their characters meaningfully.
*SPOILERS AHEAD*
The fact that they were married for a WEEK and BROKE UP was absolutely mind boggling to me. All of their issues could have been solved with ONE meaningful conversation that didn't result in Fia running away or not compromising with Irian. It literally felt like a rip-off moment of ACOTAR when Tamlin overprotects Feyre after watching her die. It's literally beat for beat the same motivations driving Irian and his decisions. But he also raises valid points about how Fia is treating their relationships and his feelings about her DYING and she refuses to listen and have an actual conversation about it so that entire relationship gets THROWN DOWN THE DRAIN.
Like, I understand we can't have the couple who got together happily at the end just continue to exist happily without SOME tension or conflict, but it did NOT have to be a Bella and Edward New Moon moment where they break up to create that conflict. Why couldn't we see them spend actual time together on the page working on their relationship and experiencing these hardships but WORKING THROUGH THEM together? I hated how this gorgeous romance set up in the first book was completely eviscerated -- ONLY FOR THEM TO GET BACK TOGETHER AT THE END,
Like, what did we learn here?? Has either of them actually grown at all this book? They had one conversation that was kind of a forgiveness speech and then immediately fucked and then moved on until everything went to shit and she had to die AGAIN. Literally copy and paste the ending from book 1 and put it here. Same exact scenario, same exact outcome, same place we left book 1, with NO forward progression for ANYONE.
This entire book should have been squeezed into a minor storyline in the concluding book of the series, and I stand by that. Fia's character was absolutely assassinated in this book, and her romance with Irian is literally worth nothing anymore. I might pick up Book 3 just to see what happens, but I can only pray the author returns to the roots of what made the first book so good.
This was one of my most anticipated sequels of 2025, and to say I was disappointed is an understatement. A Feather So Black was one of my top reads last year because of the lush writing, gorgeous magic and world, and compelling characters and romance. But all of the elements I loved most in the first book were sorely lacking in the second. Not only was it a departure from the Swan Lake fairytale, but the shift in direction for the story felt awkward and blunt.
Suddenly we're thrust into a new island with new creatures, characters, and magic at stake. I don't mind an expansion of the world, but this entire second book could have been a side quest in the concluding book for the series. We lost sight of the true villain, Eala, who barely had any page time despite being the overarching villain of the series. We see absolutely no forward progress with Rogan and his storyline, which seems to exist just to create drama for Irian and Fia.
Speaking of our main couple, I didn't appreciate the "character growth" we saw from them throughout this book. It felt like their relationship problems were used to drive the plot forward rather than grow their characters meaningfully.
*SPOILERS AHEAD*
The fact that they were married for a WEEK and BROKE UP was absolutely mind boggling to me. All of their issues could have been solved with ONE meaningful conversation that didn't result in Fia running away or not compromising with Irian. It literally felt like a rip-off moment of ACOTAR when Tamlin overprotects Feyre after watching her die. It's literally beat for beat the same motivations driving Irian and his decisions. But he also raises valid points about how Fia is treating their relationships and his feelings about her DYING and she refuses to listen and have an actual conversation about it so that entire relationship gets THROWN DOWN THE DRAIN.
Like, I understand we can't have the couple who got together happily at the end just continue to exist happily without SOME tension or conflict, but it did NOT have to be a Bella and Edward New Moon moment where they break up to create that conflict. Why couldn't we see them spend actual time together on the page working on their relationship and experiencing these hardships but WORKING THROUGH THEM together? I hated how this gorgeous romance set up in the first book was completely eviscerated -- ONLY FOR THEM TO GET BACK TOGETHER AT THE END,
Like, what did we learn here?? Has either of them actually grown at all this book? They had one conversation that was kind of a forgiveness speech and then immediately fucked and then moved on until everything went to shit and she had to die AGAIN. Literally copy and paste the ending from book 1 and put it here. Same exact scenario, same exact outcome, same place we left book 1, with NO forward progression for ANYONE.
This entire book should have been squeezed into a minor storyline in the concluding book of the series, and I stand by that. Fia's character was absolutely assassinated in this book, and her romance with Irian is literally worth nothing anymore. I might pick up Book 3 just to see what happens, but I can only pray the author returns to the roots of what made the first book so good.
December 4, 2024
I have mixed emotions over this book. because I loved the first book SO much, I was expecting this one to be just as great. however, I just couldn’t overlook a couple of things that bothered me and that’s why I have to give this 4 stars instead of 5.
starting with the setting, I think it was a great move to have the plot centred in a different location than the first book - it really brought something fresh and interesting to the story. I fell in love with the Silver Isle and its many secrets and intricacies.
I also appreciated that we get introduced to a new cast of characters, while maintaining the focus on the ones we’ve come to love from the first book (I’m looking at you, Irian 🫶🏻). there’s a certain found family dynamic that fit in really well with the plot and the really high stakes.
now, in terms of aspects that I didn’t particularly enjoy, I have to mention Fia’s behaviour towards Irian for most of the book. I know that it’s a popular choice in second books to have the main couple go through a conflict and be separated for the majority of the book, but I was hoping for something else in this case. Fia had a complete change of personality for about 50% percent of the book in order to drive the conflict forward, and it just wasn’t believable. I do have to admit that when Irian and Fia weren’t at odds with each other, their interactions were EVERYTHING. Irian, the man that you are 🖤
another thing that was sort of misleading from the synopsis are the trials. I was expecting them to play a much larger role than they actually do. we don’t even see or know much about each trial.
all in all, I did enjoy this book after the action started picking up and it became clear what the characters’ motivations were, and I can’t wait to get my hands on the final book!! 💚
— pre-review —
I'm so happy I got an ARC for this!!
starting with the setting, I think it was a great move to have the plot centred in a different location than the first book - it really brought something fresh and interesting to the story. I fell in love with the Silver Isle and its many secrets and intricacies.
I also appreciated that we get introduced to a new cast of characters, while maintaining the focus on the ones we’ve come to love from the first book (I’m looking at you, Irian 🫶🏻). there’s a certain found family dynamic that fit in really well with the plot and the really high stakes.
now, in terms of aspects that I didn’t particularly enjoy, I have to mention Fia’s behaviour towards Irian for most of the book. I know that it’s a popular choice in second books to have the main couple go through a conflict and be separated for the majority of the book, but I was hoping for something else in this case. Fia had a complete change of personality for about 50% percent of the book in order to drive the conflict forward, and it just wasn’t believable. I do have to admit that when Irian and Fia weren’t at odds with each other, their interactions were EVERYTHING. Irian, the man that you are 🖤
another thing that was sort of misleading from the synopsis are the trials. I was expecting them to play a much larger role than they actually do. we don’t even see or know much about each trial.
all in all, I did enjoy this book after the action started picking up and it became clear what the characters’ motivations were, and I can’t wait to get my hands on the final book!! 💚
— pre-review —
I'm so happy I got an ARC for this!!
March 20, 2025
1⭐️
A Feather So Black was one of the only new romantasy releases of 2024 that I enjoyed. Possibly the only one. It had such atmospheric writing, and the perfect elements of a gothic fairytale retelling. The world felt lush, the characters were interesting, the romance was enchanting, and it all in all felt like a fever dream in the best way.
So as you can imagine, I was very much anticipating this release.
If you gave me this book and changed the characters names, I would not have thought this was part of the same series.
Every element of magic was stripped bare, and it was turned into a cookie cutter romantasy with insufferable characters, an overuse of regurgitated smut, and a loss of plot. We completely sidestepped our main villain, and she was hardly present. Rogan became an afterthought only relevant when we needed to throw another wrench in Fia and Irians relationship. AND DO NOT EVEN GET ME STARTED ON THE MISCOMMUNICATION AND YET ANOTHER LOVE TRIANGLE!!!!!
What was the purpose of book one if this was to be the follow up? Why the mystery, world building, atmosphere, characters, and romance if you’re simply going to disregard the majority of it.
While I enjoy trials, they served no purpose as the main plot point of this book. I did not care about the new characters, and this only made me hate Fia because none of her decisions made a modicum of sense or reason. Irian deserves better.
I will not be continuing this series.
A Feather So Black was one of the only new romantasy releases of 2024 that I enjoyed. Possibly the only one. It had such atmospheric writing, and the perfect elements of a gothic fairytale retelling. The world felt lush, the characters were interesting, the romance was enchanting, and it all in all felt like a fever dream in the best way.
So as you can imagine, I was very much anticipating this release.
If you gave me this book and changed the characters names, I would not have thought this was part of the same series.
Every element of magic was stripped bare, and it was turned into a cookie cutter romantasy with insufferable characters, an overuse of regurgitated smut, and a loss of plot. We completely sidestepped our main villain, and she was hardly present. Rogan became an afterthought only relevant when we needed to throw another wrench in Fia and Irians relationship. AND DO NOT EVEN GET ME STARTED ON THE MISCOMMUNICATION AND YET ANOTHER LOVE TRIANGLE!!!!!
What was the purpose of book one if this was to be the follow up? Why the mystery, world building, atmosphere, characters, and romance if you’re simply going to disregard the majority of it.
While I enjoy trials, they served no purpose as the main plot point of this book. I did not care about the new characters, and this only made me hate Fia because none of her decisions made a modicum of sense or reason. Irian deserves better.
I will not be continuing this series.
September 4, 2025
Returning to this series felt like stepping back into a world I never want to leave. ✨
Picking up right where 𝑨 𝑭𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝑺𝒐 𝑩𝒍𝒂𝒄𝒌 left off, Selene delivers her signature lyrical prose, weaving together courtly treachery, tangled loyalties, and heart-stopping betrayal.
I loved peeling back the layers of Irian. His history and scars finally illuminate the man we know (and occasionally want to shake 😆) And can we talk about Wayland? His scenes were 🤌🏻 perfection!
This installment feels very much like the tightening of a bowstring before the final shot; the calm before the storm that promises an unforgettable finale. I’m utterly enchanted and counting the days until the next book releases.
If you’re craving a Romantasy that gives you: 🦢 Delicious tension & banter 🖤 Fated mates you’ll root for 🦢 Sibling Rivalries 🖤 A love-triangle edge 🦢 And prose that reads like pure poetry
…then this series is one you need on your shelf.
Picking up right where 𝑨 𝑭𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝑺𝒐 𝑩𝒍𝒂𝒄𝒌 left off, Selene delivers her signature lyrical prose, weaving together courtly treachery, tangled loyalties, and heart-stopping betrayal.
I loved peeling back the layers of Irian. His history and scars finally illuminate the man we know (and occasionally want to shake 😆) And can we talk about Wayland? His scenes were 🤌🏻 perfection!
This installment feels very much like the tightening of a bowstring before the final shot; the calm before the storm that promises an unforgettable finale. I’m utterly enchanted and counting the days until the next book releases.
If you’re craving a Romantasy that gives you: 🦢 Delicious tension & banter 🖤 Fated mates you’ll root for 🦢 Sibling Rivalries 🖤 A love-triangle edge 🦢 And prose that reads like pure poetry
…then this series is one you need on your shelf.
March 16, 2025
3.0/5
A Crown So Silver is the rather disappointing follow up to Lyra Selene’s A Feather So Black. The focus of this story drifts from the fantastical myth and magic of the Fair Folk that made the first iteration of the trilogy so intriguing. Instead, the focus falls upon a formulaic romantasy love triangle that leaves much to be desired. Additionally there’s an overarching argumentative defensiveness to Fia that feels unjustified and misguided. I found each time I dove back into the novel I’d soon be sighing from frustration and boredom. It’s doubtful I’ll continue the series after this.
A Crown So Silver is the rather disappointing follow up to Lyra Selene’s A Feather So Black. The focus of this story drifts from the fantastical myth and magic of the Fair Folk that made the first iteration of the trilogy so intriguing. Instead, the focus falls upon a formulaic romantasy love triangle that leaves much to be desired. Additionally there’s an overarching argumentative defensiveness to Fia that feels unjustified and misguided. I found each time I dove back into the novel I’d soon be sighing from frustration and boredom. It’s doubtful I’ll continue the series after this.
February 8, 2025
I was pleasantly surprised tbh. I enjoyed A Feather So Black but I did find some aspects rather frustrating. This was such a massive improvement!
This was beautifully written and an incredibly immersive read. The characters really grew on me and the pacing was far better in this book.
The magic system is interesting and really fun to explore. I loved getting to meet Irian's extended family!
I absolutely adored the relationship between Fia and Irian. They have a very complicated and realistic relationship which I really enjoyed. I love that their happily ever after was complex and confusing for them. They both love fiercely but they did not have a strong foundation for their relationship. I really loved the exploration of this and them barely knowing each other.
I also thoroughly enjoyed their conflicting reactions to grief and trauma. They both have been through so much but respond in completely different ways. They both behavr poorly but have the right intentions. I loved being able to see both sides of disagreements.
This was beautifully written and an incredibly immersive read. The characters really grew on me and the pacing was far better in this book.
The magic system is interesting and really fun to explore. I loved getting to meet Irian's extended family!
I absolutely adored the relationship between Fia and Irian. They have a very complicated and realistic relationship which I really enjoyed. I love that their happily ever after was complex and confusing for them. They both love fiercely but they did not have a strong foundation for their relationship. I really loved the exploration of this and them barely knowing each other.
I also thoroughly enjoyed their conflicting reactions to grief and trauma. They both have been through so much but respond in completely different ways. They both behavr poorly but have the right intentions. I loved being able to see both sides of disagreements.
June 17, 2025
Loved the first one, but this one was super difficult to get through. 3.5.
March 27, 2025
**Thank you to NetGalley and Publisher for the ARC; all opinions are my own.**
4.5 ⭐️
2.5 🌶
This sequel to A Feather So Black starts off immediately after the end of the first book. Fia is learning to control her new powers, but she's struggling to know, exactly, who she is. Setting off on a quest with her husband, Irian, and two human friends, they are trying to stop Fia's sister from attacking everyone. A lot of things happen- THE BETRAYAL- and my mind is reeling with all the possibilities book 3 will bring. I CAN'T WAIT for the next one!
If you like:
▪︎morally grey characters
▪︎classic faeries & spice
▪︎fairytale retellings
Then please give this series a shot!!
4.5 ⭐️
2.5 🌶
This sequel to A Feather So Black starts off immediately after the end of the first book. Fia is learning to control her new powers, but she's struggling to know, exactly, who she is. Setting off on a quest with her husband, Irian, and two human friends, they are trying to stop Fia's sister from attacking everyone. A lot of things happen- THE BETRAYAL- and my mind is reeling with all the possibilities book 3 will bring. I CAN'T WAIT for the next one!
If you like:
▪︎morally grey characters
▪︎classic faeries & spice
▪︎fairytale retellings
Then please give this series a shot!!
November 6, 2024
Rounding up to 4 stars.
First and foremost, I would like to thank the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC, all thoughts are my own.
A Crown So Silver opens with a slow pace and does not fully pick up until about the 55% mark. I had a difficult time making my way through the first half for a few reasons. I was a bit unsure about the setting change at first, though I ended up enjoying it. And secondly, I absolutely LOVED the FMC, Fia, in A Feather So Black, but was really quickly annoyed with her in the first half of the book. Her character seemed to shift, and I didn't understand why she was acting so impulsively and a bit immature. And I was a bit confused how quickly so much conflict developed with the MMC, Irian, especially as it seemed their characters developed together in the first book.
BUT I am so glad I kept reading, because the second half of the book was really great. Fia's character change, actions, and the difficulties in her relationship were more heavily explained, and I began to understand and feel more empathetic towards her character. Additionally, we learned much more about Irian and what motivated his actions, which allowed for more development of their characters together. It was suspenseful, magically, and that ending!!!!! I cannot believe I will have to wait so long to get answers! The second half of the book is what brought this up to four stars for me.
Lyra Selene is fantastic, and I think her writing is beautiful!
I would 100% recommend both A Feather So Black and A Crown So Silver, and truly urge readers to be patient with the book while the story develops. It is worth it! Really, really looking forward to the next book.
Publication date: Jan 21, 2025
First and foremost, I would like to thank the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC, all thoughts are my own.
A Crown So Silver opens with a slow pace and does not fully pick up until about the 55% mark. I had a difficult time making my way through the first half for a few reasons. I was a bit unsure about the setting change at first, though I ended up enjoying it. And secondly, I absolutely LOVED the FMC, Fia, in A Feather So Black, but was really quickly annoyed with her in the first half of the book. Her character seemed to shift, and I didn't understand why she was acting so impulsively and a bit immature. And I was a bit confused how quickly so much conflict developed with the MMC, Irian, especially as it seemed their characters developed together in the first book.
BUT I am so glad I kept reading, because the second half of the book was really great. Fia's character change, actions, and the difficulties in her relationship were more heavily explained, and I began to understand and feel more empathetic towards her character. Additionally, we learned much more about Irian and what motivated his actions, which allowed for more development of their characters together. It was suspenseful, magically, and that ending!!!!! I cannot believe I will have to wait so long to get answers! The second half of the book is what brought this up to four stars for me.
Lyra Selene is fantastic, and I think her writing is beautiful!
I would 100% recommend both A Feather So Black and A Crown So Silver, and truly urge readers to be patient with the book while the story develops. It is worth it! Really, really looking forward to the next book.
Publication date: Jan 21, 2025
April 20, 2025
Overall, this book was good but not as good as the first one. It had a very, VERY slow start, which, for me, made it challenging to stay engaged with the story. The story finally picked up for me about 2/3 of the way in, pulling my attention with plot twists and exciting action.
I will likey read the third book because I want to know what happens in the end.
I will likey read the third book because I want to know what happens in the end.
January 24, 2025
Returning to the world of the Fair Folk series in A Crown So Silver was such a treat, and I was so eager to see where Fia and Irian's stories were headed. Lyra Selene pulls you right back into the fae realm, weaving together magic, danger, and a complicated love story. The Silver Isle, with its icy landscape and mysterious king, was vivid and immersive, as is Selene's writing.
I have to admit, I didn't love Fia in this book as much as I did in A Feather So Black. She has a tendency to act without thinking first, and her impulsiveness causes so many problems, not just for her but for Irian and others too. It was a bit frustrating, especially during the first half of the story. Once I realized some of the reasons behind her actions and behavior, I became more understanding and sympathetic towards her. And her relationship with Irian—wow! Their relationship is really tested. It's so messy and imperfect and complicated, and there were times when I wondered if they'd make it because they crossed some questionable lines. I'm not a big fan of love triangles, and that was the case here, but I think the strain and trauma from their past and their choices weigh heavily on them. Watching them work through those struggles was tough, especially because through it all, you can feel how deeply they love each other, and their chemistry is off the charts. I kind of wish Fia groveled a bit more because Irian deserved better.
The tournament was an intriguing aspect of the story and a bit unexpected, which I liked. It added so much suspense to the plot, world-building, and character development, and I loved the way the trials pushed the characters to their limits both physically and emotionally. And the new characters, like Wayland and Sinead, were such fantastic additions. The aughiskies were great too! A fun and eerie touch—I’m a sucker for unique magical creatures, and these water horses did not disappoint.
The book delves into themes of sacrifice and resilience, especially when it comes to Fia. Her power came at such a steep price, and it added so much depth to her decisions. I think both Fia and Irian both made so many sacrifices and proved how strong and determined they could be. Ugh, and that ending!!! I can't even!! I’m already counting down the days until the next book—I need to know what happens next!
Special thanks to Orbit Books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
I have to admit, I didn't love Fia in this book as much as I did in A Feather So Black. She has a tendency to act without thinking first, and her impulsiveness causes so many problems, not just for her but for Irian and others too. It was a bit frustrating, especially during the first half of the story. Once I realized some of the reasons behind her actions and behavior, I became more understanding and sympathetic towards her. And her relationship with Irian—wow! Their relationship is really tested. It's so messy and imperfect and complicated, and there were times when I wondered if they'd make it because they crossed some questionable lines. I'm not a big fan of love triangles, and that was the case here, but I think the strain and trauma from their past and their choices weigh heavily on them. Watching them work through those struggles was tough, especially because through it all, you can feel how deeply they love each other, and their chemistry is off the charts. I kind of wish Fia groveled a bit more because Irian deserved better.
The tournament was an intriguing aspect of the story and a bit unexpected, which I liked. It added so much suspense to the plot, world-building, and character development, and I loved the way the trials pushed the characters to their limits both physically and emotionally. And the new characters, like Wayland and Sinead, were such fantastic additions. The aughiskies were great too! A fun and eerie touch—I’m a sucker for unique magical creatures, and these water horses did not disappoint.
The book delves into themes of sacrifice and resilience, especially when it comes to Fia. Her power came at such a steep price, and it added so much depth to her decisions. I think both Fia and Irian both made so many sacrifices and proved how strong and determined they could be. Ugh, and that ending!!! I can't even!! I’m already counting down the days until the next book—I need to know what happens next!
Special thanks to Orbit Books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
June 4, 2025
I really loved Book 1, A Feather So Black. But Book 2 has just been really disappointing and honestly, infuriating.
Fia spirals into this mess of defensiveness, unchecked power, and self-righteousness, and it’s infuriating to watch her tear apart someone who has done nothing but stand by her.
Her entire attitude in this book is so fucking jarring and random. The tone has changed dramatically, and there is absolutely nothing that justifies it. It’s like she woke up an entirely different person, full of venom, resentment, and bitterness but without any clear emotional journey to explain how or why she got there. It doesn’t feel like natural character development, it feels like whiplash.
Irian has been incredibly patient, even when he has every reason to be emotionally wrecked. He loved her, mourned her, and when she came back? He still wanted to understand her, support her, and make sense of the trauma they’d both endured. And yet she treats that love like a noose, when in reality, she’s the one tightening the rope. It’s gaslighting, in a way, how she blames him for the very destruction she is enacting.
And God, the way she completely disregards Irian’s grief in losing her is honestly disturbing. She doesn’t even give him space to process or heal. He was shattered. She chose to die. And when she came back, there was no “I’m sorry.” No “I know I hurt you.” Just rage at not being accepted immediately on her terms, and contempt for the very person who refused to give up on her!
The “I’m a monster now so I get to burn the world” arc is already hard to swallow—but blaming everyone else for the fire she lit herself? That’s what makes her so fucking insufferable. It’s not strength—it’s selfishness masquerading as empowerment. And unfortunately, it ruined this series for me.
I kept hoping that Irian would meet someone deserving of him and leave Fia to stew in her own toxic bitterness. It was SUCH a slog to read, but I kept going, hoping it would get better and that Fia would get a reality check… but alas, here we are.
Fia spirals into this mess of defensiveness, unchecked power, and self-righteousness, and it’s infuriating to watch her tear apart someone who has done nothing but stand by her.
Her entire attitude in this book is so fucking jarring and random. The tone has changed dramatically, and there is absolutely nothing that justifies it. It’s like she woke up an entirely different person, full of venom, resentment, and bitterness but without any clear emotional journey to explain how or why she got there. It doesn’t feel like natural character development, it feels like whiplash.
Irian has been incredibly patient, even when he has every reason to be emotionally wrecked. He loved her, mourned her, and when she came back? He still wanted to understand her, support her, and make sense of the trauma they’d both endured. And yet she treats that love like a noose, when in reality, she’s the one tightening the rope. It’s gaslighting, in a way, how she blames him for the very destruction she is enacting.
And God, the way she completely disregards Irian’s grief in losing her is honestly disturbing. She doesn’t even give him space to process or heal. He was shattered. She chose to die. And when she came back, there was no “I’m sorry.” No “I know I hurt you.” Just rage at not being accepted immediately on her terms, and contempt for the very person who refused to give up on her!
The “I’m a monster now so I get to burn the world” arc is already hard to swallow—but blaming everyone else for the fire she lit herself? That’s what makes her so fucking insufferable. It’s not strength—it’s selfishness masquerading as empowerment. And unfortunately, it ruined this series for me.
I kept hoping that Irian would meet someone deserving of him and leave Fia to stew in her own toxic bitterness. It was SUCH a slog to read, but I kept going, hoping it would get better and that Fia would get a reality check… but alas, here we are.
December 1, 2024
I’m sending Lyra a bill for emotional DAMAGE!
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC. I usually don’t ARC read because I don’t have the time but I was desperate for book two and it did not disappoint. Lyra made me love another character and I know the third and final of this series will really hit me hard. Her lyrical writing always gets me and I get so drawn in I don’t realize I made it through 50% of the book.
I highly recommend this series to anyone!
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC. I usually don’t ARC read because I don’t have the time but I was desperate for book two and it did not disappoint. Lyra made me love another character and I know the third and final of this series will really hit me hard. Her lyrical writing always gets me and I get so drawn in I don’t realize I made it through 50% of the book.
I highly recommend this series to anyone!
November 30, 2025
I personally preferred A Crown So Silver to the first book in the series. It felt like there was more of a plot and the pacing was a bit better. Having said that, the pacing did drag at times at the start of the book.
The relationship between Irian and Fia was both frustrating and interesting to witness as they were still getting to know each other. Irian was very controlling at times and I’m not sure his behaviour was ever truly justified. Fia was quite impulsive and rash in her actions and I liked that she didn’t let Irian get away with keeping secrets from her. I was a bit worried we were going to have to put up with another love triangle (my least favourite trope) but it was clear throughout where Fia’s heart lay.
Selene uses very descriptive prose which took me out of the book at times. The world building was done well and I enjoyed meeting new characters and creatures - particularly Linn the ‘demon horse’ who kept me entertained with her visions. I’m intrigued to know how the story ends considering the cliffhanger the book ended on!
Thank you to Netgalley and Orbit for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
The relationship between Irian and Fia was both frustrating and interesting to witness as they were still getting to know each other. Irian was very controlling at times and I’m not sure his behaviour was ever truly justified. Fia was quite impulsive and rash in her actions and I liked that she didn’t let Irian get away with keeping secrets from her. I was a bit worried we were going to have to put up with another love triangle (my least favourite trope) but it was clear throughout where Fia’s heart lay.
Selene uses very descriptive prose which took me out of the book at times. The world building was done well and I enjoyed meeting new characters and creatures - particularly Linn the ‘demon horse’ who kept me entertained with her visions. I’m intrigued to know how the story ends considering the cliffhanger the book ended on!
Thank you to Netgalley and Orbit for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 10, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher, and the author for providing a free e-arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Unfortunately, I did not enjoy the second book as much as the first. I feel that the book has kind of lost some of its mythological touch in a way and shifted more on the romance, with yet another triangle being formed. The book also took quite a long time to take off, about halfway through the book! The trials were the most investing part for me.
Fia was quite frustrating throughout this book, becoming argumentative at the drop of a hat. The books could also really just leave the spicy scenes out and it would really help to not bring "cheese" into the story as most of the time in romantasy, the spicy scenes are not needed and comical.
I'm still interested in the third book as that looks like that's what we're leaning towards, though.
Unfortunately, I did not enjoy the second book as much as the first. I feel that the book has kind of lost some of its mythological touch in a way and shifted more on the romance, with yet another triangle being formed. The book also took quite a long time to take off, about halfway through the book! The trials were the most investing part for me.
Fia was quite frustrating throughout this book, becoming argumentative at the drop of a hat. The books could also really just leave the spicy scenes out and it would really help to not bring "cheese" into the story as most of the time in romantasy, the spicy scenes are not needed and comical.
I'm still interested in the third book as that looks like that's what we're leaning towards, though.
July 1, 2025
it’s been a while since I read the first book in this series, but I think this installment was even better! this is a gaelic inspired romantasy with pretty good writing! the prose is quite nice and flowery, and the plot is a bit more unique than a typical cookie cutter romantasy.
I curse myself for continuing to start unfisnished series then having to wait for the next book.
I will say I preferred the style of the first cover over this one :/
I curse myself for continuing to start unfisnished series then having to wait for the next book.
I will say I preferred the style of the first cover over this one :/
January 5, 2025
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
As the creator of the ship name Firian, nobody loves this story more than me (I expect Lyra to be a close second lol) and I loved this sequel so much. Sorry not sorry Fia, Irian is THE man, and I will protect him no matter what. Both A Feather So Black and A Crown So Silver are so immersive. I simply forget everything about this horrible world and just are. I exist in that world with Irian and Fia, their immense love, and the awful odds they are against.
If A Feather So Black was about finding yourself and shed others' expectations of you, then A Crown So Silver is about choices and free space. Space to make your own choices whether they are smart or stupid. Space to exist with your own mind and free will.
I'm sort of biased here because I loved Irian from the moment we met him in the first book, and while I also like Fia, well....Irian is Irian, my man, the husband of my soul. Did Irian cross a certain boundary? Yeah he did. Was it also the right thing to do? Well yeah. The way he did it was stubborn and off the boundaries, but what he did was the right thing to do, and I am sort of surprised that Fia didn't realize it much sooner... Though, she was always headstrong and very set on her beliefs.
If you love Irian a lot, you will be irritated with Fia. If you love both more equally, you will realize what Lyra has been trying to do much sooner than I did lmao. Irian and Fia love each other a lot, but both of are very determined and opinionated. And they have been alone and starved for love, care, and intimacy for many, many years. If they didn't clash, it wouldn't be authentic. How can you communicate well with your person (with any person) if you haven't been close to someone before? How can you communicate well when you yourself have change drastically recently? How can you communicate well when all you've ever done is survive?? Fia is driven by a sense of purpose after her transformation, while Irian is desperate to protect his love after losing her. She wants to fight, he wants to flee so she can live. Was I annoyed with Fia? Yes. Do I understand her now? Yeah. My problem was that I love Irian too much so anyone who hurts him becomes enemy number one lmao....
And there's spice, people. Lots of spice!! Because Irian is a hulk and Fia can't stop herself which is the most relatable thing in the book haha
We had many plot twists and new elements! Lyra Selene manages to expand the world and the stakes masterfully. I would comp it to Nisha J. Tuli's Artefacts of Ouranos series!! If you loved that one, you will like this too.
Loved it all!!
Sincerely,
The feather on Irian's shoulder
Irian's protector
Firian's creator and president
As the creator of the ship name Firian, nobody loves this story more than me (I expect Lyra to be a close second lol) and I loved this sequel so much. Sorry not sorry Fia, Irian is THE man, and I will protect him no matter what. Both A Feather So Black and A Crown So Silver are so immersive. I simply forget everything about this horrible world and just are. I exist in that world with Irian and Fia, their immense love, and the awful odds they are against.
If A Feather So Black was about finding yourself and shed others' expectations of you, then A Crown So Silver is about choices and free space. Space to make your own choices whether they are smart or stupid. Space to exist with your own mind and free will.
I'm sort of biased here because I loved Irian from the moment we met him in the first book, and while I also like Fia, well....Irian is Irian, my man, the husband of my soul. Did Irian cross a certain boundary? Yeah he did. Was it also the right thing to do? Well yeah. The way he did it was stubborn and off the boundaries, but what he did was the right thing to do, and I am sort of surprised that Fia didn't realize it much sooner... Though, she was always headstrong and very set on her beliefs.
If you love Irian a lot, you will be irritated with Fia. If you love both more equally, you will realize what Lyra has been trying to do much sooner than I did lmao. Irian and Fia love each other a lot, but both of are very determined and opinionated. And they have been alone and starved for love, care, and intimacy for many, many years. If they didn't clash, it wouldn't be authentic. How can you communicate well with your person (with any person) if you haven't been close to someone before? How can you communicate well when you yourself have change drastically recently? How can you communicate well when all you've ever done is survive?? Fia is driven by a sense of purpose after her transformation, while Irian is desperate to protect his love after losing her. She wants to fight, he wants to flee so she can live. Was I annoyed with Fia? Yes. Do I understand her now? Yeah. My problem was that I love Irian too much so anyone who hurts him becomes enemy number one lmao....
And there's spice, people. Lots of spice!! Because Irian is a hulk and Fia can't stop herself which is the most relatable thing in the book haha
We had many plot twists and new elements! Lyra Selene manages to expand the world and the stakes masterfully. I would comp it to Nisha J. Tuli's Artefacts of Ouranos series!! If you loved that one, you will like this too.
Loved it all!!
Sincerely,
The feather on Irian's shoulder
Irian's protector
Firian's creator and president
May 26, 2025
Lyra Selene: please look away! This review is not for you, kind author.
For everyone else: I'm frustrated.
A Feather So Black was BEAUTIFUL. It was filled with stories and mystery and cheeky sprites. It was a comforting yet dark tale of love and loyalty. I adore it still.
This sequel, by comparison, is a mess. Fia is awful. She is rude and quick to fight with her HUSBAND Irian over literally everything. Girl, I don't care a bit about all those treasures and frankly think it's greedy of you to need more than two to make yourself happy. She barely speaks to her husband about anything that matters, but she's quick to jump to everyone else's defense, especially when it makes zero sense to do so. The random tournament trope (which despite being fair she somehow also resents) and the love SQUARE that pops up because we didn't already have enough love interests for our FMC. But also ROGAN I loved him in AFSB, and he was basically a robot this entire book.
Here's the thing: Irian is not Tamlin. Fia is acting completely irrationally every step of the way, and he's trying to help her survive while she makes the stupidest choices imaginable. She treats him like garbage, and I hope he lives his best life away from her by the end of the next book bc he deserves better.
Ignoring her primary goal of fighting her sister (which a character in this book very appropriately questions why Fia even cares about), this whole book has little character growth. There's no plot progression aside from the self-contained conflicts on this island. This book lacks MAGIC both figuratively and literally as her magic is nulled for most of this book. Like the first, too much happens at the end too fast, and it only made me more frustrated.
⭐⭐⭐ Borrowing a whole star from the first book because it had them to spare and is the reason I will remain excited to read the third and last book in this series.
I listened to this book on 3x speed to get through it as quickly as possible. Even the audiobook narrator changed from the incredible Heather O'Sullivan. While the replacement is fine, the change added insult to injury in my heart.
For everyone else: I'm frustrated.
A Feather So Black was BEAUTIFUL. It was filled with stories and mystery and cheeky sprites. It was a comforting yet dark tale of love and loyalty. I adore it still.
This sequel, by comparison, is a mess. Fia is awful. She is rude and quick to fight with her HUSBAND Irian over literally everything. Girl, I don't care a bit about all those treasures and frankly think it's greedy of you to need more than two to make yourself happy. She barely speaks to her husband about anything that matters, but she's quick to jump to everyone else's defense, especially when it makes zero sense to do so. The random tournament trope (which despite being fair she somehow also resents) and the love SQUARE that pops up because we didn't already have enough love interests for our FMC. But also ROGAN I loved him in AFSB, and he was basically a robot this entire book.
Here's the thing: Irian is not Tamlin. Fia is acting completely irrationally every step of the way, and he's trying to help her survive while she makes the stupidest choices imaginable. She treats him like garbage, and I hope he lives his best life away from her by the end of the next book bc he deserves better.
Ignoring her primary goal of fighting her sister (which a character in this book very appropriately questions why Fia even cares about), this whole book has little character growth. There's no plot progression aside from the self-contained conflicts on this island. This book lacks MAGIC both figuratively and literally as her magic is nulled for most of this book. Like the first, too much happens at the end too fast, and it only made me more frustrated.
⭐⭐⭐ Borrowing a whole star from the first book because it had them to spare and is the reason I will remain excited to read the third and last book in this series.
I listened to this book on 3x speed to get through it as quickly as possible. Even the audiobook narrator changed from the incredible Heather O'Sullivan. While the replacement is fine, the change added insult to injury in my heart.
December 18, 2024
Actual rating: 4.75
**Thank you to Orbit for an advanced e-book on Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.**
I was so incredibly ecstatic when I was approved for an early copy of A Crown So Silver. For those who don't know, I absolutely adore Lyra Selene's writing since I read the Amber & Dusk duology. A Feather So Black is one of my top reads of 2024 and I cannot stop talking and thinking about it.
This sequel was fantastic! I admit that the only thing I struggled with was some of Fia's decisions. Otherwise, I loved every element of this book. I love these characters. Fia and Irian are such amazing characters, and getting to see them grow individually, together, and hearing more about their past just endeared them more to me. And the additional characters - Sinead, Baldor, and especially Wayland - are absolutely fantastic! I cannot wait for more with these characters.
I wasn't sure how things were going to go, with the possibility of the trials that they were entering into. But the way that everything played out was fantastic. And the reveal? I was not ready for that. I have no idea where Lyra Selene is taking this next, and I absolutely love that. I am along for this ride with these characters, the stress and all, and I am both excited and terrified for how this will play out after that ending.
I highly recommend this series to my friends who love romantasy! And for those who love fantasy but want some romance to be forefront? This should definitely be on your radar. I think that the fantasy element is done so well with the worldbuilding, magic, characters.
TW: sexual content, injury/ injury detail, confinement, death, emotional abuse, violence, gaslighting, toxic friendship, abandonment
**Thank you to Orbit for an advanced e-book on Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.**
I was so incredibly ecstatic when I was approved for an early copy of A Crown So Silver. For those who don't know, I absolutely adore Lyra Selene's writing since I read the Amber & Dusk duology. A Feather So Black is one of my top reads of 2024 and I cannot stop talking and thinking about it.
This sequel was fantastic! I admit that the only thing I struggled with was some of Fia's decisions. Otherwise, I loved every element of this book. I love these characters. Fia and Irian are such amazing characters, and getting to see them grow individually, together, and hearing more about their past just endeared them more to me. And the additional characters - Sinead, Baldor, and especially Wayland - are absolutely fantastic! I cannot wait for more with these characters.
I wasn't sure how things were going to go, with the possibility of the trials that they were entering into. But the way that everything played out was fantastic. And the reveal? I was not ready for that. I have no idea where Lyra Selene is taking this next, and I absolutely love that. I am along for this ride with these characters, the stress and all, and I am both excited and terrified for how this will play out after that ending.
I highly recommend this series to my friends who love romantasy! And for those who love fantasy but want some romance to be forefront? This should definitely be on your radar. I think that the fantasy element is done so well with the worldbuilding, magic, characters.
TW: sexual content, injury/ injury detail, confinement, death, emotional abuse, violence, gaslighting, toxic friendship, abandonment
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