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****** SPOILERS FOR CHAINED, LIGHT, AND DARK AHEAD**********
When Izidora awakens to find six months have passed, her sole focus turns to revenge against Kazimir.
Driven by a burning desire for retribution, she plunges into the depths of her magic, discovering that where light once existed, darkness now reigns. This new, intoxicating power draws her in as she and Ruslan immerse themselves in her training.
With Ruslan’s encouragement to embrace her darkness, Izidora sheds the remnants of her identity as a victim who was chained in a cave and steps into being the insidious bloom ready to dig her sharp thorns into the Night Fae.
While she slept, Ruslan united the Crystal, Day, and Iron Realms under a single banner and amassed an army to confront the Night Realm. Yet to secure their victory, he must forge a dangerous alliance with someone he despises even more than Kazimir. With Izidora by his side on the battlefield, he’ll do whatever it takes to protect her.
Because no one touches his mate and lives.
Especially Kazimir.
As the clash between these formidable forces looms, only one side can emerge victorious. Who will remain after the last battle is fought?
Freed is the final installment of the bestselling dark romantasy series, A Choice of Light and Dark. With a cast of morally grey characters, feminine rage, and a prophecy that will change the course of history, dive deep into this dark + spicy story of trauma healing and finding love. Perfect for fans of Gild (The Plated Prisoner Series), To Bleed a Crystal Bloom, and Game of Thrones. Freed contains scenes and themes that some readers might find disturbing. A full list of TWs can be found on the author's website.
When Izidora awakens to find six months have passed, her sole focus turns to revenge against Kazimir.
Driven by a burning desire for retribution, she plunges into the depths of her magic, discovering that where light once existed, darkness now reigns. This new, intoxicating power draws her in as she and Ruslan immerse themselves in her training.
With Ruslan’s encouragement to embrace her darkness, Izidora sheds the remnants of her identity as a victim who was chained in a cave and steps into being the insidious bloom ready to dig her sharp thorns into the Night Fae.
While she slept, Ruslan united the Crystal, Day, and Iron Realms under a single banner and amassed an army to confront the Night Realm. Yet to secure their victory, he must forge a dangerous alliance with someone he despises even more than Kazimir. With Izidora by his side on the battlefield, he’ll do whatever it takes to protect her.
Because no one touches his mate and lives.
Especially Kazimir.
As the clash between these formidable forces looms, only one side can emerge victorious. Who will remain after the last battle is fought?
Freed is the final installment of the bestselling dark romantasy series, A Choice of Light and Dark. With a cast of morally grey characters, feminine rage, and a prophecy that will change the course of history, dive deep into this dark + spicy story of trauma healing and finding love. Perfect for fans of Gild (The Plated Prisoner Series), To Bleed a Crystal Bloom, and Game of Thrones. Freed contains scenes and themes that some readers might find disturbing. A full list of TWs can be found on the author's website.
532 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 7, 2024
368 people are currently reading
3498 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
December 31, 2024
As a whole this series was not that bad as people made it out to be, it has its issues definitely but at the end of the day I’m reading to be entertained.
People can be too hard on books in my personal opinion. The only reason this book was rated low for me was the fact it was filled with so much smut that it was actually taking away from the story. It was used as a way to fill pages rather than add love to the storyline. Which to me is very lazy. There’s always a balance with the two, too much of smut and you have cheapened the whole book.
I mean of course other things bothered me but at the end of the day I’m glad I gave this series a shot and it was very enjoyable.
People can be too hard on books in my personal opinion. The only reason this book was rated low for me was the fact it was filled with so much smut that it was actually taking away from the story. It was used as a way to fill pages rather than add love to the storyline. Which to me is very lazy. There’s always a balance with the two, too much of smut and you have cheapened the whole book.
I mean of course other things bothered me but at the end of the day I’m glad I gave this series a shot and it was very enjoyable.
December 22, 2024
I don’t normally write reviews, but i felt like i should write this one, for the time i spent reading this disaster. I have this problem that when i start a book series i have to finish it, and the amount i suffered reading this was unlimited. This series was so badly written i wanted to cry the majority of the time, the way the characters narrated the story was unfathomable and so so cringy, the writing was so basic and childish, that the story seemed to be told by stupid people that lacked understanding of the world around them, the way that the writer ‘transformed’ Kazimir into the villain, even though he had this bizarre obsessed way about him, from the beginning of the series, was again, simple minded. The characters were missing a deeper build of a personality, they were so superficial and every moment something that was supposed to be emotional, lacked meaningfulness. The way the characters solved problems was something that bothered me and i felt like the experience with the reading wasn’t immersive, we were told by the narrator what happened rather than reading the situations in it self, like there was no building the story, it just was. I don’t know if i am making myself clear, but, everything was just so shallow and the relationship dynamics were terrible. I think this is one of the worst reads of the year for me, the story itself had potential, but the execution of the story was a lackluster experience.
March 3, 2025
DNF at 45%. I just couldn't finish it. It was so bad
June 22, 2025
When I first started this series it was definitely giving ACOTAR vibes… maybe a little too many ACOTAR vibes. The first two books were okay, but the timeline felt too fast yet too slow all at the same time. I firmly believe this did not need to be 4 books, each over 400 pages. By the 4th one I was skimming because there was so much unnecessary details. It felt like the majority of these books were the characters talking to themselves or the author describing something so it was very easy to lose interest. The only character that had believable growth was Kazimir, and he was the evil one. And lastly, the smut became excessive - I was over it.
October 17, 2024
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
Spice: 🔥🔥🔥.5
.
Wow😱😱
.
I am so sad that this series is over, I loved every second of it, and I love these characters with all of my heart. I’ve read about Izidora overcoming her past traumas and watched her bloom into this beautiful FMC that gets her happy ending.
.
I don’t know what to do with myself now, this series is over, and I don’t know how to move on with my life. The plot, spice, everything about this book was perfectly executed and I can’t wait to see what Lacey writes next!🖤
Spice: 🔥🔥🔥.5
.
Wow😱😱
.
I am so sad that this series is over, I loved every second of it, and I love these characters with all of my heart. I’ve read about Izidora overcoming her past traumas and watched her bloom into this beautiful FMC that gets her happy ending.
.
I don’t know what to do with myself now, this series is over, and I don’t know how to move on with my life. The plot, spice, everything about this book was perfectly executed and I can’t wait to see what Lacey writes next!🖤
January 11, 2025
For the last novel in this series it ended with a bang showing the twisted acts of the night Fae king from stealing a child to eliminating the crystal realm. We got to see Isadora continue to grow and achieve her revenge and become empress, adored this series, highly recommend.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 12, 2025
Perfect ending!
May 22, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️.25 /5
“Because your story is not finished, not yet. You will write the
ending how you want it to be."
What an ending. Holy crap. I really enjoyed the first three books but this one definitely was a highlight. It had the action and battles, the grief, the emotional damage, the spice, the romance, the found family, the twists, and the development. Izidora’s story is definitely one that will stay with me for a long time coming. I’m going to keep this spoiler free but damn the mouths on the men in this book 🥵 yes please and thank you. The spice as always was hitting hard 🔥. But I absolutely loved the glimpse of the world after the action and having all the characters stories wrapped up - I’m definitely going to miss them.
“I rose from the ashes of my pain, rolled my shoulders back, and told myself that I was an insidious bloom. That I had the power to bring males to their knees. That I was a survivor.
And survivors were the most dangerous ones of them all.”
🖤 finale in a series
🗡️ found family & fated mates
🖤 war and battles
🗡️ prophecy & twists
🖤 emotional damage
🗡️ healing
“Because your story is not finished, not yet. You will write the
ending how you want it to be."
What an ending. Holy crap. I really enjoyed the first three books but this one definitely was a highlight. It had the action and battles, the grief, the emotional damage, the spice, the romance, the found family, the twists, and the development. Izidora’s story is definitely one that will stay with me for a long time coming. I’m going to keep this spoiler free but damn the mouths on the men in this book 🥵 yes please and thank you. The spice as always was hitting hard 🔥. But I absolutely loved the glimpse of the world after the action and having all the characters stories wrapped up - I’m definitely going to miss them.
“I rose from the ashes of my pain, rolled my shoulders back, and told myself that I was an insidious bloom. That I had the power to bring males to their knees. That I was a survivor.
And survivors were the most dangerous ones of them all.”
🖤 finale in a series
🗡️ found family & fated mates
🖤 war and battles
🗡️ prophecy & twists
🖤 emotional damage
🗡️ healing
November 3, 2024
I am so sad to be done with this series. I loved the first 3 books, but this one took the cake for me. I went on a JOURNEY of emotions reading through Izidora’s story. While it’s fantasy, it’s still relatable as someone who is also still healing from trauma. I found this series to be inspiring, sexy, exciting, and comforting all at once. I wish I could read again for the first time!
October 8, 2024
Now what am I going to do?
This whole series had me feral in the best way possible. I paced, I yelled, I cussed, and I even cried one time. I timed reading the books, so I could read this one immediately when it was released. Best decision ever. I’m sorry to see this world end.
This whole series had me feral in the best way possible. I paced, I yelled, I cussed, and I even cried one time. I timed reading the books, so I could read this one immediately when it was released. Best decision ever. I’m sorry to see this world end.
January 21, 2025
Started this series from an excerpt on tiktok and now it’s over. Reflecting on the series I think I liked the second book the most. The transition from kazimir having some red flags in the first book to becoming more and more obsessive was done really well. However, there are a few things that I felt like could’ve been fleshed out more/seemed like they should’ve been more important
1. Kazimirs binding magic: I kinda feel like izidora shohldve been able to burn the binding magic out of him and give him a moment of clarity to realize what he did to his friends and loved ones before he died. Not that he deserves redemption but supposedly a lot of his actions had to do with the binding magic, right? So it would’ve been more climactic to see him have some clarity at the end especially since we spent a whole book with him as the love interest
2. Zuriels prophecy: I get it but it kinda seemed like he didn’t really even have to die? Or he should’ve died when he jumped in front of izidora the first time. Like that would’ve made more sense bc it was like a true sacrifice not a random attack that he launched for no reason when both izidora and ruslan were right there.
3. The night hounds being loyal to kazimir for so long: like genuinely this made no sense to me. Especially the ones like kaztar who were like really loyal to him not even questioning things. LIKE HE KIDNAPPED AN INFANT??? Their whole mission for 20 years was to save a kidnapped girl and then they went along with that? Like that was the point endre and viktor should’ve been like hell no enough is enough.
4. Liliana, drazen, endre throuple: I mean idk this didn’t both me that much but again was so random. Like it was all this angst about the love triangle and then two random men who don’t know each other from a hole in the wall just agree to be in a throuple. I mean I guess idk.
5. Izidora’s darkness: I thought this would cause a major problem bc the whole point was like choosing light over dark to save the realm and she became like so bloodthirsty and revenge-focused, which was so unlike the compassion she had always shown. And I get she was fed up and she was valid for sure but I just thought that would like turn her to the dark side or something bc of how much it was mentioned.
The only other thing I didn’t like was how izidora and ruslan had such a superiority complex over everyone. Like they truly thought they were better than everyone bc of their power. That’s….. not the vibe. And one scene I really really disliked was when ruslan made Liliana GET ON HER KNEES AND BEG for izidoras forgiveness bc she told them abt a letter with a few days delay. And izidora allowed that? Like that is HER ONLY FRIEND and she’s using her position of power to lower her. And like izidora wouldn’t have done the exact same thing if it were ruslan sending her letters idk it just icked me out so badly I was like what is happening here. Liliana is better than me I would’ve been so pissed.
Okay what I did like
I love izidora idk I think she’s really cool and she kept getting screwed over and never let it get her down. And I liked that she actually had emotions and let people help her rather than just acting immune to them.
The story flowed well and I was always excited to read the next book. Entertainment value was there for sure. I felt connected to all the characters not just izidora and ruslan and I cared about what happened to all of them. Obviously the first book is what drew me in originally but I loved reading about the iron realm and her life there even more. It always seems like I talk more abt what I didn’t like but honestly I just enjoyed the story overall and like don’t have much else to say. It’s bittersweet that the series is over but it was a good ride.
1. Kazimirs binding magic: I kinda feel like izidora shohldve been able to burn the binding magic out of him and give him a moment of clarity to realize what he did to his friends and loved ones before he died. Not that he deserves redemption but supposedly a lot of his actions had to do with the binding magic, right? So it would’ve been more climactic to see him have some clarity at the end especially since we spent a whole book with him as the love interest
2. Zuriels prophecy: I get it but it kinda seemed like he didn’t really even have to die? Or he should’ve died when he jumped in front of izidora the first time. Like that would’ve made more sense bc it was like a true sacrifice not a random attack that he launched for no reason when both izidora and ruslan were right there.
3. The night hounds being loyal to kazimir for so long: like genuinely this made no sense to me. Especially the ones like kaztar who were like really loyal to him not even questioning things. LIKE HE KIDNAPPED AN INFANT??? Their whole mission for 20 years was to save a kidnapped girl and then they went along with that? Like that was the point endre and viktor should’ve been like hell no enough is enough.
4. Liliana, drazen, endre throuple: I mean idk this didn’t both me that much but again was so random. Like it was all this angst about the love triangle and then two random men who don’t know each other from a hole in the wall just agree to be in a throuple. I mean I guess idk.
5. Izidora’s darkness: I thought this would cause a major problem bc the whole point was like choosing light over dark to save the realm and she became like so bloodthirsty and revenge-focused, which was so unlike the compassion she had always shown. And I get she was fed up and she was valid for sure but I just thought that would like turn her to the dark side or something bc of how much it was mentioned.
The only other thing I didn’t like was how izidora and ruslan had such a superiority complex over everyone. Like they truly thought they were better than everyone bc of their power. That’s….. not the vibe. And one scene I really really disliked was when ruslan made Liliana GET ON HER KNEES AND BEG for izidoras forgiveness bc she told them abt a letter with a few days delay. And izidora allowed that? Like that is HER ONLY FRIEND and she’s using her position of power to lower her. And like izidora wouldn’t have done the exact same thing if it were ruslan sending her letters idk it just icked me out so badly I was like what is happening here. Liliana is better than me I would’ve been so pissed.
Okay what I did like
I love izidora idk I think she’s really cool and she kept getting screwed over and never let it get her down. And I liked that she actually had emotions and let people help her rather than just acting immune to them.
The story flowed well and I was always excited to read the next book. Entertainment value was there for sure. I felt connected to all the characters not just izidora and ruslan and I cared about what happened to all of them. Obviously the first book is what drew me in originally but I loved reading about the iron realm and her life there even more. It always seems like I talk more abt what I didn’t like but honestly I just enjoyed the story overall and like don’t have much else to say. It’s bittersweet that the series is over but it was a good ride.
October 7, 2024
A Thrilling, Dark Romantasy Adventure That Will Keep You On the Edge of Your Seat
This series has been an absolutely wild ride from start to finish, and the final book is no exception. From the very beginning, we meet Izidora—imprisoned, beaten, and chained in a dark cave. But her salvation comes in the form of Kazimir, who falls deeply in love with her. Together, they navigate the treacherous path of survival and discovery, as Izidora hones her magical abilities and wields weapons with a skill that rivals even the most seasoned warriors. Along the way, she learns to embrace life and find joy—something that had seemed out of reach in her former existence.
But just when it seems like Izidora’s hard-earned peace could last, it’s ripped away from her. Kidnapped from the safety of Este Castle and imprisoned once again, she’s faced with a new, terrifying reality. Ruslan, a dark and dangerous figure, claims she will rule by his side, but what about the life she’s been torn from? What about the people she loves?
The twists and turns throughout this series are as brutal as they are brilliant. Each reveal leaves you breathless, and if you’re not paying close attention, you’ll miss something crucial that could change everything. The stakes feel higher with every page, the tension more palpable, and the characters—especially Izidora—are so vivid, you can’t help but become invested in their journey.
If you’re a fan of dark romantasy, with complex characters, heart-pounding action, and a plot full of unexpected twists, this series will not disappoint. The finale is everything I could have hoped for and more, leaving a sense of closure, but also an itch to revisit these pages again and again. This is already on my 'read it again' list.
This series has been an absolutely wild ride from start to finish, and the final book is no exception. From the very beginning, we meet Izidora—imprisoned, beaten, and chained in a dark cave. But her salvation comes in the form of Kazimir, who falls deeply in love with her. Together, they navigate the treacherous path of survival and discovery, as Izidora hones her magical abilities and wields weapons with a skill that rivals even the most seasoned warriors. Along the way, she learns to embrace life and find joy—something that had seemed out of reach in her former existence.
But just when it seems like Izidora’s hard-earned peace could last, it’s ripped away from her. Kidnapped from the safety of Este Castle and imprisoned once again, she’s faced with a new, terrifying reality. Ruslan, a dark and dangerous figure, claims she will rule by his side, but what about the life she’s been torn from? What about the people she loves?
The twists and turns throughout this series are as brutal as they are brilliant. Each reveal leaves you breathless, and if you’re not paying close attention, you’ll miss something crucial that could change everything. The stakes feel higher with every page, the tension more palpable, and the characters—especially Izidora—are so vivid, you can’t help but become invested in their journey.
If you’re a fan of dark romantasy, with complex characters, heart-pounding action, and a plot full of unexpected twists, this series will not disappoint. The finale is everything I could have hoped for and more, leaving a sense of closure, but also an itch to revisit these pages again and again. This is already on my 'read it again' list.
October 12, 2024
Freed is the final installment in the A Choice of Light and Dark series from. I had the absolute privilege of reading this early and what a ride are you in for.
If you are a fan of Dark Fantasy Romance with Revenge, Fated Mates, Fantasy Battles, Touch Her and Die, Forced Proximity, Found Family, Feminine Rage and so much more this series is for you!
Freed picks right back up after the heck of a cliffhanger ending of Dark and without giving away any spoilers you truly get to see Izidora shine and overcome her trauma in this beautiful conclusion.
Izidora, as well as Ruslan, have grown so much throughout the entire series. You get some epic battles, gasp worthy moments, multiple points of view in this book - as well as some new POVs to really enhance the story. You are going to be fanning yourself during certain scenes 🥵and not gonna lie, you are going to feel a certain way towards Kazimir - I still think about some questionable things he did even months later.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
If you are a fan of Dark Fantasy Romance with Revenge, Fated Mates, Fantasy Battles, Touch Her and Die, Forced Proximity, Found Family, Feminine Rage and so much more this series is for you!
Freed picks right back up after the heck of a cliffhanger ending of Dark and without giving away any spoilers you truly get to see Izidora shine and overcome her trauma in this beautiful conclusion.
Izidora, as well as Ruslan, have grown so much throughout the entire series. You get some epic battles, gasp worthy moments, multiple points of view in this book - as well as some new POVs to really enhance the story. You are going to be fanning yourself during certain scenes 🥵and not gonna lie, you are going to feel a certain way towards Kazimir - I still think about some questionable things he did even months later.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
January 4, 2026
One reborn queen, one united army, and a prophecy that promised everything 🗡️🔥
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3/5)
Spice-meter: 🌶️🌶️🌶️☆☆☆ (3/5)
Audiobook: 🎧 Duet-style
Series: A Choice of Light and Dark, Book 4
HEA: Yes
Freed is the emotional and explosive conclusion to A Choice of Light and Dark, and in many ways it is also the strongest book in the series. It brings the battles, the grief, the found family, the rage, the spice, and the long-awaited transformation of Izidora. You finally get to see her rise, own her power, and step fully into who she is meant to be.
And for a large part of this book, it absolutely delivers.
This installment is packed with action, emotional damage, romance, spicy chaos, and character growth. You can clearly feel how much the author has grown over the course of the series. The writing is stronger, the tone is darker, and the world finally feels like it is at war instead of just talking about one.
Also… the men in this book? Absolutely unfiltered. Their mouths alone deserve a warning label. The spice hits. Repeatedly. With enthusiasm.
The Story
Freed picks up directly after the brutal cliffhanger of Dark. Izidora wakes to a world that has moved forward without her, and her only focus becomes revenge. With Ruslan at her side, she dives deep into her darker magic, shedding the last pieces of the girl who was chained in a cave and stepping into something far more dangerous.
While she trains, Ruslan unites the realms and prepares for war. Alliances are forged, armies are raised, and everything finally moves toward the confrontation that has been promised since book one.
What I Loved
✔️ Izidora’s transformation into her darker, stronger self
✔️ Found family standing united
✔️ High-stakes battle energy throughout
✔️ Strong emotional beats and grief representation
✔️ Consistently good, well-written spice
✔️ Clear growth in the author’s writing
🎧 Narration
Narrated by Daphne Fields and Gideon Frost in duet-style, both deliver solid, immersive performances that suit the darker tone of this book perfectly. The emotional scenes land, the tension stays tight, and the spice… well. They understood the assignment.
Tropes & Vibes
✔️ Feminine Rage
✔️ Morally Gray Heroes
✔️ Fated Mates
✔️ Touch-Her-and-Die
✔️ War & Political Intrigue
✔️ Found Family
✔️ Dark Magic
✔️ Cliffhanger Ending
Final Thoughts
Freed should have been epic.
After four books of lore, prophecy, tension, and “the battle is coming,” the final confrontation simply does not hit as hard as it should. The book is long, the buildup is massive, and yet the actual payoff feels surprisingly restrained. There is a lot of fighting and a lot of spicing, but the emotional and mythic weight promised since book one never fully lands.
I enjoyed this series. Truly. And this book has many strong moments.
But with all that buildup, I expected something legendary.
Instead, it ends on a note that feels… safe.
And that is the real disappointment.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3/5)
Spice-meter: 🌶️🌶️🌶️☆☆☆ (3/5)
Audiobook: 🎧 Duet-style
Series: A Choice of Light and Dark, Book 4
HEA: Yes
Freed is the emotional and explosive conclusion to A Choice of Light and Dark, and in many ways it is also the strongest book in the series. It brings the battles, the grief, the found family, the rage, the spice, and the long-awaited transformation of Izidora. You finally get to see her rise, own her power, and step fully into who she is meant to be.
And for a large part of this book, it absolutely delivers.
This installment is packed with action, emotional damage, romance, spicy chaos, and character growth. You can clearly feel how much the author has grown over the course of the series. The writing is stronger, the tone is darker, and the world finally feels like it is at war instead of just talking about one.
Also… the men in this book? Absolutely unfiltered. Their mouths alone deserve a warning label. The spice hits. Repeatedly. With enthusiasm.
The Story
Freed picks up directly after the brutal cliffhanger of Dark. Izidora wakes to a world that has moved forward without her, and her only focus becomes revenge. With Ruslan at her side, she dives deep into her darker magic, shedding the last pieces of the girl who was chained in a cave and stepping into something far more dangerous.
While she trains, Ruslan unites the realms and prepares for war. Alliances are forged, armies are raised, and everything finally moves toward the confrontation that has been promised since book one.
What I Loved
✔️ Izidora’s transformation into her darker, stronger self
✔️ Found family standing united
✔️ High-stakes battle energy throughout
✔️ Strong emotional beats and grief representation
✔️ Consistently good, well-written spice
✔️ Clear growth in the author’s writing
🎧 Narration
Narrated by Daphne Fields and Gideon Frost in duet-style, both deliver solid, immersive performances that suit the darker tone of this book perfectly. The emotional scenes land, the tension stays tight, and the spice… well. They understood the assignment.
Tropes & Vibes
✔️ Feminine Rage
✔️ Morally Gray Heroes
✔️ Fated Mates
✔️ Touch-Her-and-Die
✔️ War & Political Intrigue
✔️ Found Family
✔️ Dark Magic
✔️ Cliffhanger Ending
Final Thoughts
Freed should have been epic.
After four books of lore, prophecy, tension, and “the battle is coming,” the final confrontation simply does not hit as hard as it should. The book is long, the buildup is massive, and yet the actual payoff feels surprisingly restrained. There is a lot of fighting and a lot of spicing, but the emotional and mythic weight promised since book one never fully lands.
I enjoyed this series. Truly. And this book has many strong moments.
But with all that buildup, I expected something legendary.
Instead, it ends on a note that feels… safe.
And that is the real disappointment.
July 2, 2025
This was a really good story and could have been a lot better. I enjoyed Izidora and Liliana's friendship. The little 3 way love between Endre Liliana and Drazen. It was a fun read but there are some issues I have which is I completely expected More out of Izidora and Kizimir's battle scene. We go threw out this entire series reading about this prophecy, that's supposed to happen, so you expect it to be epic. It just was not. I was very disappointed.
We barely got to see Kazimir use his binding magic during the war. but the ending was so simple. Which is fine, just my thoughts since Izidora is suppose to be one of the most powerful, except for Ruslan, ( which I adored him) and the prophecy is about her, so I honestly figured she would use more of her empath/ light magic on him. It just fell flat. The more I thought about how Kaz became the villain, so quickly was not OK I get that the binding magic was fracturing his mind and making him insane. I felt like Izidora didn't really give him a chance when they arrive in the Iron realm. How is he suppose to act when his mate is with the enemy, not to mention that enemy killed his father and a few of his friends the ones that saved her from the Iron realm! I would have be driven insane to if you think about it. She was all happy and having a great time while he was worried about her that entire time. I repeat Izidora is his MATE! So yeah he going to be obsessive and possessive, most mates are! of course there a lot more I could say on that subject but moving on.
I also think there was to much smutt, took away from the story and just made it longer than what it needed to. Like I don't need 10 chapters of it cause than it just becomes the same and repeats itself, which happens a lot through series. There is repetitiveness, Going back to steel Ruslans club and then doing drugs. That was actually irrelevant to the story. but like can we move on from the club. We get enough of that in the real world. I just started skimming threw the smutt after a while. But all in all it was good and will probably read more from her cause I like the world and the people in it!
We barely got to see Kazimir use his binding magic during the war. but the ending was so simple. Which is fine, just my thoughts since Izidora is suppose to be one of the most powerful, except for Ruslan, ( which I adored him) and the prophecy is about her, so I honestly figured she would use more of her empath/ light magic on him. It just fell flat. The more I thought about how Kaz became the villain, so quickly was not OK I get that the binding magic was fracturing his mind and making him insane. I felt like Izidora didn't really give him a chance when they arrive in the Iron realm. How is he suppose to act when his mate is with the enemy, not to mention that enemy killed his father and a few of his friends the ones that saved her from the Iron realm! I would have be driven insane to if you think about it. She was all happy and having a great time while he was worried about her that entire time. I repeat Izidora is his MATE! So yeah he going to be obsessive and possessive, most mates are! of course there a lot more I could say on that subject but moving on.
I also think there was to much smutt, took away from the story and just made it longer than what it needed to. Like I don't need 10 chapters of it cause than it just becomes the same and repeats itself, which happens a lot through series. There is repetitiveness, Going back to steel Ruslans club and then doing drugs. That was actually irrelevant to the story. but like can we move on from the club. We get enough of that in the real world. I just started skimming threw the smutt after a while. But all in all it was good and will probably read more from her cause I like the world and the people in it!
May 18, 2025
A Darkly Beautiful Finale – Fierce, Spellbinding, and Utterly Addictive
Freed is the breathtaking conclusion to the A Choice of Light and Dark series, and author Lacey Lehotzky delivers a masterclass in dark romantasy. This final installment takes everything we’ve come to love—fierce heroines, morally grey love interests, high-stakes battles, and emotionally charged healing—and dials it up to a blazing, unforgettable climax.
Izidora’s transformation from broken prisoner to powerful warrior is raw, cathartic, and deeply empowering. Her descent into darkness doesn’t feel like corruption—it feels like reclamation. With Ruslan’s unwavering loyalty and ruthless love, their bond ignites the pages with equal parts tenderness and fiery passion. The chemistry? Unmatched. The tension? Deliciously painful.
The political intrigue, the unholy alliances, and the slow-burning vengeance plot all weave together into a world so immersive you can practically taste the blood, magic, and iron in the air. The author doesn’t shy away from the brutal, the erotic, or the emotionally harrowing—and that’s what makes this series shine. It’s about survival. About love that chooses you again and again. And about reclaiming your narrative, even if it means tearing down kingdoms to do it.
If you loved Gild, To Bleed a Crystal Bloom, or anything with female rage, forbidden romance, and emotionally complex antiheroes, Freed will leave you breathless.
An absolutely phenomenal ending to a series that deserves every bit of its acclaim. This is dark fantasy done right.
Five stars, and a crown for the author.
Freed is the breathtaking conclusion to the A Choice of Light and Dark series, and author Lacey Lehotzky delivers a masterclass in dark romantasy. This final installment takes everything we’ve come to love—fierce heroines, morally grey love interests, high-stakes battles, and emotionally charged healing—and dials it up to a blazing, unforgettable climax.
Izidora’s transformation from broken prisoner to powerful warrior is raw, cathartic, and deeply empowering. Her descent into darkness doesn’t feel like corruption—it feels like reclamation. With Ruslan’s unwavering loyalty and ruthless love, their bond ignites the pages with equal parts tenderness and fiery passion. The chemistry? Unmatched. The tension? Deliciously painful.
The political intrigue, the unholy alliances, and the slow-burning vengeance plot all weave together into a world so immersive you can practically taste the blood, magic, and iron in the air. The author doesn’t shy away from the brutal, the erotic, or the emotionally harrowing—and that’s what makes this series shine. It’s about survival. About love that chooses you again and again. And about reclaiming your narrative, even if it means tearing down kingdoms to do it.
If you loved Gild, To Bleed a Crystal Bloom, or anything with female rage, forbidden romance, and emotionally complex antiheroes, Freed will leave you breathless.
An absolutely phenomenal ending to a series that deserves every bit of its acclaim. This is dark fantasy done right.
Five stars, and a crown for the author.
October 9, 2024
This is the fourth and final book in the A Choice of Light and Dark, a dark romantasy series. Tropes include fated mates, revenge, mental health and trauma representation and healing, touched her and die, feminine rage, and morally gray characters. This story is dark so please check the content warnings.
The Lovely: I love everything but my favorite part is the characters (main and secondary) and their relationships. All the main characters are well-rounded, flawed and wholly realistic. The main characters have some trauma to work through together. There is so much emotion in the relationships, both good and bad. The trauma healing in this book is rooted in actual mental health therapy methods, which I appreciate.
Also Lovely: I hope you’re ready for some amazing action because there are some epic battle and fight scenes in this thrilling conclusion. The detail of these are simply amazing and immersive, and you can tell a lot of thought was put into them.
Rating: 5/5 Stars 4/5 Flames
Recommendation: I received an advance review copy, and am leaving this review voluntarily. The series is complete ya’ll - we’ve finally made it to the end. After the cliff hanger at the end of book three, I was feral to find out what happened and how to story would progress. This conclusion is wild and emotional, and as a reminder, no throwing your book or e-reader. I consistently feel ALL the feels, which for me is a sign of a great book. If you like **dark** romantic fantasy with well-developed characters and plenty of feels in a fantasy world, this is the series for you.
The Lovely: I love everything but my favorite part is the characters (main and secondary) and their relationships. All the main characters are well-rounded, flawed and wholly realistic. The main characters have some trauma to work through together. There is so much emotion in the relationships, both good and bad. The trauma healing in this book is rooted in actual mental health therapy methods, which I appreciate.
Also Lovely: I hope you’re ready for some amazing action because there are some epic battle and fight scenes in this thrilling conclusion. The detail of these are simply amazing and immersive, and you can tell a lot of thought was put into them.
Rating: 5/5 Stars 4/5 Flames
Recommendation: I received an advance review copy, and am leaving this review voluntarily. The series is complete ya’ll - we’ve finally made it to the end. After the cliff hanger at the end of book three, I was feral to find out what happened and how to story would progress. This conclusion is wild and emotional, and as a reminder, no throwing your book or e-reader. I consistently feel ALL the feels, which for me is a sign of a great book. If you like **dark** romantic fantasy with well-developed characters and plenty of feels in a fantasy world, this is the series for you.
December 2, 2024
I have literally never done this but I am rating and reviewing this series as a whole. It's literal smut trash that you love to hate. It started well enough, and it's like the author had the idea of having a second guy out of nowhere and came up with random ideas out of nowhere to make the first bad and went downhill. The second is also not a great choice. It's like no one just told this girl like hey after everything you have been through you don't have to be with a guy fae live for hundreds of years take your time to heal. I hated the modern concepts in these books like showers and even contraception...while yes maybe they would have something that wasn't a good enough reason to make someone evil plus she would have learned about it in the cave when the women came to take care of everything and with fae having such a hard time conceiving there would be no need for it in a fantasy world maybe even frowned upon. Just everything about both these guys annoyed me I found myself skipping several scenes. By the third book when she finally made her choice I wanted to dnf the whole series but I was already three books in so I might as well finish it at the very least this was a waist of a weekend. I also got some very heavy vibes of ACOTAR this is just more abusive and has way more bedroom scenes.
October 8, 2024
Anyone else been waiting MONTHS for this book just to binge read it in a couple days? 😂😭
Very happy to announce this book wrapped up the series amazingly!!! To see our girl Izidora's growth (both physically AND mentally) thru the series from being abused since she was a child, guarded and locked away in a cave to a strong, bad ass fighter who has taken back control of her life has made me so happy. Cried a lot of happy tears to see Izidora confront her trauma, even when she was feeling weakened by life knocking her down. She kept fighting and pushing. "I was an insidious bloom, and it was time to show him my thorns" 🖤🖤
Oh and not to mention I was VERY HAPPY with how the story ended for our side characters (mainly Liliana, Endre & Drazen).
The spice was 🥵🔥, the overall story was engaging and kept me waiting everytime I finished a book to get the next one.
If you like books about: fated mates, overcoming trauma, female rage/revenge, magic and DRAGONS, you should read this series if you haven't! Constantly had me on the edge of my seat, pacing the room, yelling at my book when things got crazy 😂
Very happy to announce this book wrapped up the series amazingly!!! To see our girl Izidora's growth (both physically AND mentally) thru the series from being abused since she was a child, guarded and locked away in a cave to a strong, bad ass fighter who has taken back control of her life has made me so happy. Cried a lot of happy tears to see Izidora confront her trauma, even when she was feeling weakened by life knocking her down. She kept fighting and pushing. "I was an insidious bloom, and it was time to show him my thorns" 🖤🖤
Oh and not to mention I was VERY HAPPY with how the story ended for our side characters (mainly Liliana, Endre & Drazen).
The spice was 🥵🔥, the overall story was engaging and kept me waiting everytime I finished a book to get the next one.
If you like books about: fated mates, overcoming trauma, female rage/revenge, magic and DRAGONS, you should read this series if you haven't! Constantly had me on the edge of my seat, pacing the room, yelling at my book when things got crazy 😂
October 11, 2024
Finally the book we’ve been waiting for! And this title says it all! Izadora is fierce, independent, brave, and so many more things I can’t even put into words. Ruslan? He’s protective, a leader, strong, and hot! The two together? Unstoppable.
This book tied everything up in a pretty bow and answered all the questions from the previous 3 books. BUT it wasn’t an easy read. I found myself crying, laughing, filled with anger and rage at many points throughout this book. There are emotions pulled right and left as you are reading and I supposed that’s how it should be since Izadora is an empath and that’s what fuels her magic.
"You and I are infinite, Izidora, just like this circle. In this life, in the next life, in all the lives after, we will find each other."
“Us against the world,” I whimpered.
“Us against the world,” he echoed.
This book, this series was everything and was absolutely worth the read. It was dark, spicy, magical, but also easy to follow and understand. There were dragons, and far, mage, and angels, demons, and kingdoms. Beautiful storyline and even more beautiful characters.
This book tied everything up in a pretty bow and answered all the questions from the previous 3 books. BUT it wasn’t an easy read. I found myself crying, laughing, filled with anger and rage at many points throughout this book. There are emotions pulled right and left as you are reading and I supposed that’s how it should be since Izadora is an empath and that’s what fuels her magic.
"You and I are infinite, Izidora, just like this circle. In this life, in the next life, in all the lives after, we will find each other."
“Us against the world,” I whimpered.
“Us against the world,” he echoed.
This book, this series was everything and was absolutely worth the read. It was dark, spicy, magical, but also easy to follow and understand. There were dragons, and far, mage, and angels, demons, and kingdoms. Beautiful storyline and even more beautiful characters.
January 19, 2025
My Rating: 3 ⭐⭐⭐
Series Rating: 3.25 ⭐⭐⭐
We Have
✅ M/F Romance
✅ Fated Mates
✅ Fantasy
✅ Trauma Healing
✅ Revenge
✅ Touch Her and Die vibes
✅ MFM Scenes
✅ Epic Battles
I’m so torn with this one. The plot wrapped everything up in a bow… and yet it didn’t. There’s clearly room for a future book—possibly with the babes (fucking plural) on the way and our favorite thruple. (Side note: I was never more excited to see that happening!) While I was hoping for some MM action, the MFM scenes were chef’s kiss. No but really.....
Let me just say: Chapter 45. JFC. It was so smutty and friggen delicious! But on the flip side, a lot of the smut in this book centered around Kaz, and since I’m still mad at him, those scenes didn’t hit for me as much. (100% a personal preference though.)
There were some incredibly written battles, and the emotional toll of this book hit me hard. Two deaths wrecked me. How the fuck am I supposed to read a book when the pages are blurry?? someone, please explain this shit to me!
I’ll admit, I did a fair amount of hate reading. The FMC got all the way on my nerves multiple times, and the sappy scenes between her and Rus were just not for me. I know I’m in the minority on that one because most readers probably eat that shit up. Still, I can’t deny that this series pulled emotions out of me— and is it even a good book if it doesn't make you scream, cry and throw shit??
This is a solid 3-star book for me, and this series is maybe even 3.25 stars. It’s tough to make me cry, and Lacy managed to do it twice in this one. The ending wrapped things up while still leaving me wanting more. If you’re into fantasy with a mix of smut, angst, and emotional turmoil, this series is a great escape!
Series Rating: 3.25 ⭐⭐⭐
We Have
✅ M/F Romance
✅ Fated Mates
✅ Fantasy
✅ Trauma Healing
✅ Revenge
✅ Touch Her and Die vibes
✅ MFM Scenes
✅ Epic Battles
I’m so torn with this one. The plot wrapped everything up in a bow… and yet it didn’t. There’s clearly room for a future book—possibly with the babes (fucking plural) on the way and our favorite thruple. (Side note: I was never more excited to see that happening!) While I was hoping for some MM action, the MFM scenes were chef’s kiss. No but really.....
Let me just say: Chapter 45. JFC. It was so smutty and friggen delicious! But on the flip side, a lot of the smut in this book centered around Kaz, and since I’m still mad at him, those scenes didn’t hit for me as much. (100% a personal preference though.)
There were some incredibly written battles, and the emotional toll of this book hit me hard. Two deaths wrecked me. How the fuck am I supposed to read a book when the pages are blurry?? someone, please explain this shit to me!
I’ll admit, I did a fair amount of hate reading. The FMC got all the way on my nerves multiple times, and the sappy scenes between her and Rus were just not for me. I know I’m in the minority on that one because most readers probably eat that shit up. Still, I can’t deny that this series pulled emotions out of me— and is it even a good book if it doesn't make you scream, cry and throw shit??
This is a solid 3-star book for me, and this series is maybe even 3.25 stars. It’s tough to make me cry, and Lacy managed to do it twice in this one. The ending wrapped things up while still leaving me wanting more. If you’re into fantasy with a mix of smut, angst, and emotional turmoil, this series is a great escape!
March 19, 2025
This was almost painful to finish. I was bored with much of the repetition. It felt like the story was beginning to drag on. I saw someone else commented that the spice was too much and didn’t further the story, and I had to agree. Some of it was great and fitting and felt right. Other parts felt like page filler.
I also disagree with others assessments on Kazimir. His fall had pretty much been predicted from the beginning with his inner commentary on hiding his obsession for Izidora from even before they found her. He had always had a wrong to him, but gaining and then losing the object of his obsession broke his facade. This was only further derailed by the fates interference, and this whispered words that egged him on and continued to encourage his deranged choices. There are men like this out there. And when they get the power to feed into those delusions they fall farther and deeper at every opportunity, especially if no one called them out. Call those fuckers out!
I also disagree with others assessments on Kazimir. His fall had pretty much been predicted from the beginning with his inner commentary on hiding his obsession for Izidora from even before they found her. He had always had a wrong to him, but gaining and then losing the object of his obsession broke his facade. This was only further derailed by the fates interference, and this whispered words that egged him on and continued to encourage his deranged choices. There are men like this out there. And when they get the power to feed into those delusions they fall farther and deeper at every opportunity, especially if no one called them out. Call those fuckers out!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 28, 2025
I read the series. The first book I was not a fan. I liked the story line and characters. I felt it needed better editing. I did some research and from what I read about the author she is new and that was her first book. I continued on as I am a sucker that needs to know what happened. Each book the writing got better. I definitely need more character development. The spicy was fire however some could have been left out IMO. less is more sometimes. I also felt like I had read a particular section in the book that was in a different series by another author. Battle scenes were fantastic, totally was able to visualize it. I look forward to reads from this author as she hones her craft and talent.
October 9, 2024
What a perfect ending to Izidora's story.
I have been with Izidora from the start and I have loved seeing her character develop and grow into the bad a$$ female she is now.
I absolutely adore the found family vibe in this book and the spice is on point!! I mean phew! There are also some epic battles and other cool stuff!
It is so hard to write this review without giving things away to people who haven't started the series so all I will really say is PICK UP THIS SERIES RIGHT NOW!
Freed is the final book in Lacey's A Choice of Light and Dark series and they must be read in order.
I have been with Izidora from the start and I have loved seeing her character develop and grow into the bad a$$ female she is now.
I absolutely adore the found family vibe in this book and the spice is on point!! I mean phew! There are also some epic battles and other cool stuff!
It is so hard to write this review without giving things away to people who haven't started the series so all I will really say is PICK UP THIS SERIES RIGHT NOW!
Freed is the final book in Lacey's A Choice of Light and Dark series and they must be read in order.
October 21, 2024
I didn’t love it. I was kind of checked out this whole book. I just didn’t really care, but I trudged through it. It picked up for a sec when Kazimir stole the princess. He was just too far gone, and he doesn’t even regret anything upon his death. I can’t believe Vadim died!!! A lot of the guys died in this series and I’m a little sad. I’m not quite happy with how things ended with Liliana. I think she should have picked between the two of the boys and that she should have picked Endre. Over all, thx series isn’t bad, but it could have been shorter and better.
October 26, 2024
What an ending to such an amazing series.
I laughed, I cried, I giggled, I swooned! But most of all I REJOICED! 🤐
This series ended exactly how I felt was the rich way to end and I loved everyone in it.
Izadora’s growth is amazing
Ruslan’s growth and the way he evolved was incredible.
Liliana and her loyalty but also her SITUATION was the perfect little side story.
Kazimir… was there.
If you love a strong FMC who fights her way out of her circumstances and a MMC who helps her embrace her dark side this is DEFINITELY the series for you.
I laughed, I cried, I giggled, I swooned! But most of all I REJOICED! 🤐
This series ended exactly how I felt was the rich way to end and I loved everyone in it.
Izadora’s growth is amazing
Ruslan’s growth and the way he evolved was incredible.
Liliana and her loyalty but also her SITUATION was the perfect little side story.
Kazimir… was there.
If you love a strong FMC who fights her way out of her circumstances and a MMC who helps her embrace her dark side this is DEFINITELY the series for you.
January 23, 2025
This book was definitely full of action, full of spice and full of moments where I had to ask myself if that was necessary.
The battle scenes were well written. I’m pretty sure my favorite characters are the weird high lords from Iron Realm that love the sex club. But I just wasn’t clicking with Izadora. At the end when she was assigning marriages I had to stop and say “What are you doing?” I thought she was all about freedom of choice. That’s just one example of her odd behaviors.
Overall the series was okay. Not bad, not great.
The battle scenes were well written. I’m pretty sure my favorite characters are the weird high lords from Iron Realm that love the sex club. But I just wasn’t clicking with Izadora. At the end when she was assigning marriages I had to stop and say “What are you doing?” I thought she was all about freedom of choice. That’s just one example of her odd behaviors.
Overall the series was okay. Not bad, not great.
June 6, 2025
This was a wild ride. I honestly have zero complaints as to how this story ended. At the beginning of this series I was complaining about it and almost DNFed the series as a whole, but I am glad I didn’t. Where the first two books felt rushed and like the author was focusing heavily on unimportant details, the last two books are where the author hit her stride and figured things out. This was a WILD ride, and I loved every second of it. I can honestly say that I am sad that the series is over now, as I have fallen in love with these characters through their development.
October 9, 2024
I think I missed something
I had high hopes for the conclusion of this story. It's basically fighting (battle) and f, I mean, spicing. And the spice is good and well written. I'm not complaining abt that. I just got this "winter is coming" build up since book 1 and then a very anticlimactic ending. The story started with lore, prophecy, and relationship building and I feel like that was lacking by the end or maybe the impact or significance wasn't there
I had high hopes for the conclusion of this story. It's basically fighting (battle) and f, I mean, spicing. And the spice is good and well written. I'm not complaining abt that. I just got this "winter is coming" build up since book 1 and then a very anticlimactic ending. The story started with lore, prophecy, and relationship building and I feel like that was lacking by the end or maybe the impact or significance wasn't there
October 11, 2024
A five star series for me. I absolutely devoured the first book and held on tight with all the plot twists and turns this story took.
I’m so happy with Izidora’s finished storyline after all the trauma she overcame. I loved seeing her grow in her confidence and abilities and the support she got from the people around her.
The plot of the series overall didn’t go the way I thought it would but I LOVED it just the same.
I’m so happy with Izidora’s finished storyline after all the trauma she overcame. I loved seeing her grow in her confidence and abilities and the support she got from the people around her.
The plot of the series overall didn’t go the way I thought it would but I LOVED it just the same.
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