Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

College Fae #1.5

Knight of Cups

Rate this book
A Fae Magic adventure

A ghostly medieval knight and a creepy curse spoil the summer.

Brigit, a fae dryad, and Jib, her talking cat, become trapped in a haunted French chateau. They quickly become embroiled in a creepy family mystery with ties to the medieval myths and legends of the Holy Grail.

“I also had an interesting time,” the True Beast said, ignoring the materialization of the knight. “This family is under a curse.”

“Duh,” said Brigit, warily eyeing the ghost who was floating about a foot off the ground. “This guy probably knows something about it.”

Taking Brigit at her word, the knight began to speak, “For three days, I shall warn those at the Château du Puis. On the third night, one of you will die.”

The púca commented, “Sounds like we will be leaving tomorrow.”

Between the bizarre dinner ritual and unearthly screaming from the cellar, can the two break the Dupois curse before it claims another victim?

A contemporary fantasy - this Fae Magic adventure short story is a standalone tale using characters from the YA fantasy, Never Date a Siren - the College Fae Magic Series, book #1.

69 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 1, 2024

24 people are currently reading
148 people want to read

About the author

Byrd Nash

25 books1,496 followers
Discover fearless women, clever as cats, partnered with men who fall first even if they do have a hidden agenda. Byrd writes riveting characters who are relatable but realistically complex.

Her book series showcase alternate histories with intrigue, fantasy, and the supernatural, while Byrd’s standalone novels are thought-provoking explorations of family dysfunction using contemporary settings and magical realism.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
40 (48%)
4 stars
29 (34%)
3 stars
11 (13%)
2 stars
1 (1%)
1 star
2 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
Profile Image for Byrd Nash.
Author 25 books1,496 followers
Read
June 11, 2024
𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐀𝐮𝐝𝐢𝐨𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤! If you loved Jib, the talking puca cat from the College Fae series, you need to listen to the sample! The audio artists did an amazing job with all the characters, and made my story come alive with snarky fun.

Listen here:
https://byrdnash.com/2024/06/11/new-a...

Buying options here:
https://books2read.com/knightofcups/

You don't need to have read the College Fae series to enjoy this one (action takes place after Never Date a Siren). It features only Brigit and Jib on a summer vacation when they run into a ghostly curse in France.

𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐜𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫! This is part of a re-branding of this series so expect more new covers for Never Date a Siren, A Study in Spirits, and Bane of Hounds. I do have some of the old covers in print books so will be offering those for sale through my newsletter for a special price.

If there is enough interest in me writing the fourth book, let me know, otherwise, I will let the series end with book three (there is no cliffhanger so you are okay reading it).

If your ebook reader doesn't update, permanently delete the book, and 'buy' again. The book is permafree so there is no cost to you to grab it again. If you still can't get the new cover, you can go to my website and download the book for free.
Profile Image for Linda Lou.
392 reviews16 followers
November 16, 2019
This is a story that takes place after Bridget’s freshman year of college. She and Jib, her puca who takes the form of a black cat... my first clue that I needed to be on my toes as Pucas are tricksters and very dangerous. Next, is a dilapidated French Château way out amongst some sinister looking trees. I could sense it from the uneasiness felt by Bridget.

This is a wickedly magical tale spun by Byrd Nash that kept me swiping the screen for the next page. It was with some reluctance that I turned my Kindle off BUT...Never Date a Siren will be in my hands in two days. Can’t wait to get to know Bridget and Jib better and find out what trouble comes their way.

Parental Note: If this story is a sample of what is to come in the series, I can highly recommend this College Fae Magic series for tweens 12 and up. In fact, I’m sure my soon to be 13 year old granddaughter would love this series. I did!
Profile Image for Andie.
Author 34 books12 followers
October 30, 2019
What a charming and well-written tale!

Through the adventure, Brigit the dryad is forthright and brave, a contemporary heroine with one foot in the human world and the other in the fae world. The púca Jib is a snarky delight, dishing out sass and useful information in equal measures.

“Knight of Cups” is a fun way to introduce readers to the author’s new College Fae series and the upcoming first installment, Never Date a Siren.

Note: I got a first look at this story as a beta reader and can vouch for the quality of the author’s writing and the world building.

Profile Image for Jay Rigler.
Author 2 books3 followers
November 1, 2019
A fun light read

My first time reading a Byrd Nash book, and I liked it! A fun light read great with morning coffee.
Profile Image for Giselle Schneider.
Author 19 books24 followers
October 6, 2022
Perfect Halloween Story

A short story perfect for a night in on Halloween. Readers will just love this brief insight into Brigit's and Jib's vacation through Europe. Note: this takes place between books 1 and 2, for those who have yet to start the series.
Profile Image for Ilona Nurmela.
689 reviews16 followers
November 19, 2019
Wickedly enticing short ghost story, Byrd never disappoints

I absolutely loved this story and couldn’t put it down. Of course reading ghost stories is far better than watching them. I loved the talking furniture! And the idea that ghosts are generated from human desires. And the fact that this is a sequel to the Never Date A Siren book, which isn’t out yet. Such a treat! Love the rhythm of the story and the tasty expressions. Definitely looking forward to the adventures of Brigit and her puca Jib. Totally recommend!
Profile Image for Dawn Milligan.
2,664 reviews16 followers
December 2, 2019
I really enjoyed this story! Well written and great pace! Good characters I will for sure check out more books by Byrd!
Profile Image for Jon Herrera.
Author 5 books50 followers
August 14, 2020
Wonderful short story with characters that are just oh so charming. There is a little bit of everything in these fifty pages. The story is funny in places, scary at times, but it is driven mostly by the central mystery of the titular knight. Though the book is outside the genres I normally read, these characters, Brigit and Jib, made enough of an impression on me that I do want to--and will--continue reading about them.
Profile Image for T.K. Toppin.
Author 28 books59 followers
November 22, 2019
Having read Byrd Nash's previous book, The Wicked Wolves of Windsor, I was eagerly anticipating her next book, Never Date A Siren, and even more excited to read this stand alone short story that complements her upcoming release. Knight of Cups gives us a little insight into her new story with two of the main characters. What I really enjoy about Byrd Nash's tales, are how the magical worlds and the real worlds just story of blend in together, like every day occurrences - because, you know, talking cats are no big deal, right? If you want a quick read with magical elements, modern themes based on historical accounts and events that are twisted nicely and woven into the story, and ghosts...well, read this short story.
827 reviews29 followers
July 24, 2022
This short story (hence being called book 1.5 in the series) finds Brigit, a fae dryad, along with Jib, her puca in cat form, on a road trip around Europe after their first full year at university. Jib was desperate to go to a castle, but something has gone wrong and they find themselves at an almost ruined house that appears to have been cursed.

This is a nice scary ghost story, featuring two of the main characters from the YA fantasy, Never Date A Siren. Just right to whet your appetite for the next in the College Fae series. Even if I’m not really in the target audience, I can still appreciate a well written story, which this is

I received a copy of this story to read in exchange for an honest review via the author.
Profile Image for Scarolet Ellis.
7,445 reviews52 followers
January 12, 2020
Knight of Cups: A Fae Magic adventure by Byrd Nash is a wonderful story to read. This isa story I loved reading casue I love reading about suspense and fanyasy in my stories and this is definatly a wonderful one to read. I highly recommend this story to everyone who loves reading about suspense and fantasy in their stories.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for HeyyAjj.
31 reviews3 followers
January 5, 2020
Who loves fantasy worlds, characters, and creatures? If any of this sounds even partially interesting I would definitely say to check out Knight of Cups. The fantasy and mystery is such a great read. Bryd Nash continues to surprise me with these fantastic worlds and magical characters and creatures.
Profile Image for Kylie.
209 reviews35 followers
August 30, 2021
Brigit, a Fae dryad is on holiday with Jib (a puca, aka a talking cat) when they accidentally find themselves in the haunted Dupois family castle trying to break a curse. With unearthly screaming interrupting their sleep and the threat of someone in the castle dying it’s up to Brigit and Jib to break the curse. A quick short story in the College Fae series which is well worth reading.
Profile Image for Sarah.
7 reviews
December 3, 2024
Solid writing style, a tidy plot, a chatty animal companion, and a dryad who can talk to furniture. If you’re looking for something quick and easy to read over a coffee and pastry, this is it. Could've used another proofread, but overall well-edited.

While part of a larger series, it stands perfectly well on its own.
Profile Image for Merricat.
153 reviews3 followers
January 13, 2020
Oh! I adored this little snippet into a small adventure Brigit and Jib had. It was a very interesting story and had me on the edge of my seat. Well worth the read especially if you adored Byrd’s Book Never Date a Siren!
Profile Image for Jenn.
31 reviews
August 24, 2020
An engrossing short story

This is such a good story and fills in a little more about the storyline of the series. The whole series is a must read if you like the fae and other creatures.
Profile Image for Ami.
2,423 reviews14 followers
September 6, 2020
This tale happens after the events in Never Date a Siren. It is a very imaginative and well-written short story an I enjoyed it very much.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this ebook from the author and this is my honest and freely given opinion.
Profile Image for Andrea Drake.
432 reviews29 followers
August 30, 2021
This was pretty great! Loved the story line & her talking cat! I think my teenager sister would also love these books! She loves all things paranormal like me! This one was just as good as the first book. & I really enjoyed it!
Profile Image for Alder Blacksmith.
52 reviews1 follower
December 3, 2019
A great little scary story and a perfect addition to Never Date a Siren. Gives readers something to read before book 2 comes out.
Profile Image for Marilu Coelho.
71 reviews1 follower
May 11, 2020
A great little addition to Never Date a Siren. Gets me more hyped for the next book.
Profile Image for Ursula Visser.
Author 23 books79 followers
December 31, 2019
Lovely short story of Jib and Bridget. Jib is a special cat, with a mind of its own. Special powers give it something extra, and it is not afraid to make that clear.
Profile Image for Tayra Sanders.
2,313 reviews31 followers
January 18, 2020
This book hooked me from the beginning. I just couldn’t put it down. I fell for these characters and, what a story just perfect.
8 reviews2 followers
May 5, 2020
A delightful and fun taster of Byrd Nash’s magical fae realms.
Profile Image for Marie  Reed.
Author 5 books79 followers
January 1, 2021
Fun little side story for Brigit and Jib between books 1 and 2. They are looking for a castle in France and happen upon a house with a few feuding family members and a ghost out to get them.
629 reviews12 followers
March 23, 2023
I really like the front cover so this is what caught my attention.
I enjoyed it, it was a quick read, well written and kept my attention.
I would read more from this author.
Profile Image for Riri Laurie.
666 reviews4 followers
July 8, 2024
Firstly, I will admit the cover is what got me on this one.
.
This wasn't a bad little Novella, I am now curious about the main series. I was intrigued by the world and the different mythical creatures. I was a big fan of Jib which I'm sure does not come as a surprise to anyone. We all know I love a good Animal sidekick.
.
The writing was ok, the story could do with some editing, and the fact that the author referred to the main character by her name on some occasions but mostly by the Dryad was driving me a little nut. It was annoying.
.
But it was fun, and I will be looking at reading the main series.
Profile Image for Liz Young.
314 reviews4 followers
July 29, 2024
This story combined several of my favorite elements: cozy fantasy, a fun animal companion, and a house with a mystery. Bridgit and Jib have a great dynamic, and it was so fun to watch them both rib each other and try to work out the hidden secrets of their current adventure. Overall, this was a fun read with the perfect amount of cozy and spooky.

I also particularly love how potentially paranormal aspects were handled. I haven’t read anything in this fantasy universe before, but learning more about the tulpa makes me want to dive into the series this story is a companion to.
120 reviews5 followers
July 30, 2024
Jib just wanted to visit a castle. Who could have known the chateau they stopped at for the evening would be haunted and cursed!? Brigit doesn't want to leave the young human girl to her fate now that she aware of the truth. With Jib by her side Brigit is determined to get to the bottom of the curse and free the girl from an unfair demise. The spirit in charge won't let his victim go of his own free will, but then he has never had to deal with such a pair as Brigit and Jib. Will Jib ever get to visit the castle? Great short read from cover to cover!
Profile Image for Lissa B.
63 reviews3 followers
July 7, 2024
Fanasty? Ghosts? Curses? Talking cats? What's not to love there!
This short story was intriguing, and in my opinion, it was kind of hilarious because of how sassy Jib is. I'm not the biggest fan of super short books, but I enjoyed the short read of it! Definitely recommend if you enjoy the elements of these kind of stories!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.