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Between Roses and Evergreens
Alerie Oliveira is the top-ranking cadet of the Lecian Military Academy. With her specialties in hand-to-hand combat, archery, and short-range weapons, her future seems secure, but her attempts to graduate are blocked. When Queen Mirel becomes the victim of an attempted assassination, the reason for her extended training comes to light; she becomes the newly appointed primary assassin and spy for Lecia. Alerie is quickly deployed to the mainland, where Lecian fae haven't set foot for decades.
Isabelle Oliveira is suspicious of her mother, Queen Mirel, and the plan she has for Alerie. After confronting the Queen, she is forced to accept that Alerie's fate runs much deeper than what has been made public. Her mother is hiding something, and finding the answer that may save Alerie's life requires her to give up her life in Lecia.
As Isabelle searches for answers, Alerie discovers there is much more than meets the eye in the mainland. When Eren Lorveth, the acting High Lord of the Lunar Court, finds her through her dreams, her world as she knows it crumbles.
Isabelle Oliveira is suspicious of her mother, Queen Mirel, and the plan she has for Alerie. After confronting the Queen, she is forced to accept that Alerie's fate runs much deeper than what has been made public. Her mother is hiding something, and finding the answer that may save Alerie's life requires her to give up her life in Lecia.
As Isabelle searches for answers, Alerie discovers there is much more than meets the eye in the mainland. When Eren Lorveth, the acting High Lord of the Lunar Court, finds her through her dreams, her world as she knows it crumbles.
328 pages, ebook
Published December 5, 2024
8 people are currently reading
72 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
September 13, 2025
This book has a lot of promise, especially with its intriguing concept and exciting ending. The plot had so much potential, and while the ending left me curious to see what happens next, the journey to get there was a bumpy ride. It starts slow and takes its time to build, but once it picks up, it’s engaging enough to hold your attention.
Alerie Oliveira, the top-ranking cadet of the Lecian Military Academy, seemed like she would be such a compelling FMC. As a spy and assassin trained in hand-to-hand combat, archery, and short-range weapons, her story had everything to hook me in. But her execution felt off—she came across as naive and way too trusting for someone trained not to rely on others. Eren Lorveth, the overly protective love interest, also felt a bit forced; his sudden attachment to Alerie didn’t feel believable, and I couldn’t get into his headspace even with chapters from his POV.
The writing itself was a little too detailed and repetitive at times. Conversations often rehashed what we already knew, slowing the pace. And while the chapters shift between three different perspectives, it was hard to really connect with the characters—there wasn’t enough depth to their emotions or motivations to make them feel truly alive.
That said, the last few chapters were a standout. Once the story really got moving, I couldn’t put it down, and I’m excited to see how the plot develops further. Despite its flaws, this book’s unique premise and exciting twists give it a lot of potential.
Essentials & Highlights:
✨ Fated lovers
✨ Assassin FMC
✨ Mission / quest
✨ Lost royal family
✨ Multiple POV (3)
✨ First in series
Alerie Oliveira, the top-ranking cadet of the Lecian Military Academy, seemed like she would be such a compelling FMC. As a spy and assassin trained in hand-to-hand combat, archery, and short-range weapons, her story had everything to hook me in. But her execution felt off—she came across as naive and way too trusting for someone trained not to rely on others. Eren Lorveth, the overly protective love interest, also felt a bit forced; his sudden attachment to Alerie didn’t feel believable, and I couldn’t get into his headspace even with chapters from his POV.
The writing itself was a little too detailed and repetitive at times. Conversations often rehashed what we already knew, slowing the pace. And while the chapters shift between three different perspectives, it was hard to really connect with the characters—there wasn’t enough depth to their emotions or motivations to make them feel truly alive.
That said, the last few chapters were a standout. Once the story really got moving, I couldn’t put it down, and I’m excited to see how the plot develops further. Despite its flaws, this book’s unique premise and exciting twists give it a lot of potential.
Essentials & Highlights:
✨ Fated lovers
✨ Assassin FMC
✨ Mission / quest
✨ Lost royal family
✨ Multiple POV (3)
✨ First in series
November 8, 2024
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Review: This was a great start to this fantasy romance series and also the perfect distraction to fall into. I was sucked in from the very first page and read through this rather quickly. That cliffhanger though!
I also thoroughly enjoyed the world building and the character development between our MCs.
If you want to get sucked into a world with assassins, mate bonds, and a shadow daddy then this is definitely for you.
Review: This was a great start to this fantasy romance series and also the perfect distraction to fall into. I was sucked in from the very first page and read through this rather quickly. That cliffhanger though!
I also thoroughly enjoyed the world building and the character development between our MCs.
If you want to get sucked into a world with assassins, mate bonds, and a shadow daddy then this is definitely for you.
July 29, 2025
Title: Between Roses and Evergreens
Author: Liliana Longoria
Genre: Fantasy
Format: eARC
Series: Courts of Moons and Suns (#1)
Star Rating: 4 stars
tw: torture, slut shaming, poisoning, murder of children, illness, mention of missing children, imprisonment
A special thank you goes to the author, Liliana Longoria, for providing me with a copy of this book. Please know that this does not influence my rating or thoughts on the book itself.
I’m just going to come right out and say it. I thoroughly enjoyed this book! One of my favorite things about this book was the lore. I am such a sucker for a good lore and world-building. And surprise surprise, I am interested in this fae. I know in another book I mentioned fae were kind of boring. In this book, they were pretty interesting. I enjoyed the time Liliana dedicated to building the world. In fantasy, the world is so important, and every single detail matters. They spared no expense in making sure we knew the world and all it had to offer. And that’s something I truly appreciate.
I loved the slow-burn romance between Alerie and Eren. The nickname he had for her, Little Rose, was sending me. It was absolutely adorable and very fitting for Alerie. I appreciated that the love wasn’t instant either. There was mutual attraction, sure, but it took its time to grow. I am so excited to see what’s in store for them in the next book. I just know I am going to swoon like crazy.
Speaking of Alerie, she was a great main character. I appreciate that she didn't fight it when she received news about herself or her situation. It always frustrates me when main characters fight the inevitable. Not my girl Alerie, though. She took it all in stride and, instead of wallowing about her circumstances, she put on her big girl underwear and got to work. There was no time to wallow.
Overall, this was an enjoyable book, and I was so impressed with the world-building. It was exceptionally well done. I’m excited for the second book, as this one ended on a cliffhanger. I just want to get back into this world with Alerie and Eren.
Author: Liliana Longoria
Genre: Fantasy
Format: eARC
Series: Courts of Moons and Suns (#1)
Star Rating: 4 stars
tw: torture, slut shaming, poisoning, murder of children, illness, mention of missing children, imprisonment
A special thank you goes to the author, Liliana Longoria, for providing me with a copy of this book. Please know that this does not influence my rating or thoughts on the book itself.
I’m just going to come right out and say it. I thoroughly enjoyed this book! One of my favorite things about this book was the lore. I am such a sucker for a good lore and world-building. And surprise surprise, I am interested in this fae. I know in another book I mentioned fae were kind of boring. In this book, they were pretty interesting. I enjoyed the time Liliana dedicated to building the world. In fantasy, the world is so important, and every single detail matters. They spared no expense in making sure we knew the world and all it had to offer. And that’s something I truly appreciate.
I loved the slow-burn romance between Alerie and Eren. The nickname he had for her, Little Rose, was sending me. It was absolutely adorable and very fitting for Alerie. I appreciated that the love wasn’t instant either. There was mutual attraction, sure, but it took its time to grow. I am so excited to see what’s in store for them in the next book. I just know I am going to swoon like crazy.
Speaking of Alerie, she was a great main character. I appreciate that she didn't fight it when she received news about herself or her situation. It always frustrates me when main characters fight the inevitable. Not my girl Alerie, though. She took it all in stride and, instead of wallowing about her circumstances, she put on her big girl underwear and got to work. There was no time to wallow.
Overall, this was an enjoyable book, and I was so impressed with the world-building. It was exceptionally well done. I’m excited for the second book, as this one ended on a cliffhanger. I just want to get back into this world with Alerie and Eren.
November 24, 2024
ARC Review
4.5⭐️
Between Roses and Evergreens is a fantasy novel that has blown me away. There is not an overload of world building at the beginning but rather developed as the story progressed and I LOVE that. Throughout the story, we get to see and learn about Alerie, who she is, who she thinks she is, and more about who she actually is towards the end of the book.
With the minimal upfront world building, it allowed for the small details to be embedded into the story as the information became truly relevant and was more memorable. This also left so much to be uncovered and explored in later books in the series which I wish more books followed this layout.
Alerie is an adopted daughter of Queen Meril of Lecia. She has been training in combat for the better part of her life without being granted the ability to graduate from the academy for reasons not ever explained to her. Until she is deemed useful by the Queen that is. Alerie is granted graduated status and immediately sent out of the gates of Lecia to be the court’s official spy. However, everything Alerie had been told about the territories outside of Lecia’s gates were not what they seemed. It’s now up to her to determine if she continues to trust what she has learned her entire life, or trust what she is experiencing and learning on her own.
I loved the development of this story. I think for a first book in a series it was done extremely well and set up the rest of the series to go in a million different ways but also has the set up to be done extremely well regardless of the direction the author chooses to go. My only knock on the book, is I wish the relationship between Alerie and Eren was developed just a little bit more, or at the very least a little more in depth interactions between the two especially with their ability to communicate with one another.
Thank you Liliana for letting me take a chance on your debut book and read it early! I can’t wait to keep up with the story of Alerie and Eren
4.5⭐️
Between Roses and Evergreens is a fantasy novel that has blown me away. There is not an overload of world building at the beginning but rather developed as the story progressed and I LOVE that. Throughout the story, we get to see and learn about Alerie, who she is, who she thinks she is, and more about who she actually is towards the end of the book.
With the minimal upfront world building, it allowed for the small details to be embedded into the story as the information became truly relevant and was more memorable. This also left so much to be uncovered and explored in later books in the series which I wish more books followed this layout.
Alerie is an adopted daughter of Queen Meril of Lecia. She has been training in combat for the better part of her life without being granted the ability to graduate from the academy for reasons not ever explained to her. Until she is deemed useful by the Queen that is. Alerie is granted graduated status and immediately sent out of the gates of Lecia to be the court’s official spy. However, everything Alerie had been told about the territories outside of Lecia’s gates were not what they seemed. It’s now up to her to determine if she continues to trust what she has learned her entire life, or trust what she is experiencing and learning on her own.
I loved the development of this story. I think for a first book in a series it was done extremely well and set up the rest of the series to go in a million different ways but also has the set up to be done extremely well regardless of the direction the author chooses to go. My only knock on the book, is I wish the relationship between Alerie and Eren was developed just a little bit more, or at the very least a little more in depth interactions between the two especially with their ability to communicate with one another.
Thank you Liliana for letting me take a chance on your debut book and read it early! I can’t wait to keep up with the story of Alerie and Eren
November 26, 2024
Alerie, lives a life with no past, and an unknown future. Trapped in a present world of in-between while training at a military academy but a suspicious incident propels her into a mission that changes everything, but what will come of her future now?
This debut novel and the first in a series had me captivated and swooning and ticked off all at the same time and I was loving it! I was hooked on the secrecy and the mission, swooning over the fated mate bond and the nickname ☺️🌹 and ticked off because someone needs to pay for all the lies and betrayal!
Told through multiple points of view, you gain unique bits of truth that helped you in the story but left you waiting for when the others would discover the same truths. I loved all the characters which so rarely happens, but it increased the buy I felt for every aspect of the story.
The mission, the secrets and lie, the betrayals were so well placed and timed that you felt a mix of surprised and hands up in the air of I knew it! But I never once gave predictable to the point of boring or unexciting.
I enjoyed the writing style, it’s only my second Fae book, but I really enjoyed the descriptive world building and differences in types of fae. I could clearly see in my mind what people and things look like, she did great creating atmosphere without dwelling so much we miss plot. Every chapter was another step in the tale, and while I was so desperate to find out what happened… dang she left me on a cliffhanger! One I didn’t know I would love and hate! I’m so anxious to see where this goes and this book is a must read!
This debut novel and the first in a series had me captivated and swooning and ticked off all at the same time and I was loving it! I was hooked on the secrecy and the mission, swooning over the fated mate bond and the nickname ☺️🌹 and ticked off because someone needs to pay for all the lies and betrayal!
Told through multiple points of view, you gain unique bits of truth that helped you in the story but left you waiting for when the others would discover the same truths. I loved all the characters which so rarely happens, but it increased the buy I felt for every aspect of the story.
The mission, the secrets and lie, the betrayals were so well placed and timed that you felt a mix of surprised and hands up in the air of I knew it! But I never once gave predictable to the point of boring or unexciting.
I enjoyed the writing style, it’s only my second Fae book, but I really enjoyed the descriptive world building and differences in types of fae. I could clearly see in my mind what people and things look like, she did great creating atmosphere without dwelling so much we miss plot. Every chapter was another step in the tale, and while I was so desperate to find out what happened… dang she left me on a cliffhanger! One I didn’t know I would love and hate! I’m so anxious to see where this goes and this book is a must read!
December 16, 2024
Between Roses and Evergreens by Liliana Longoria 4⭐️
☀️ Fated Lovers
☀️ Assassin FMC
☀️ Lost Heir
☀️ Magical Fae
☀️ Shadow Daddy
Alerie is the top cadet of the Lecian Military Academy. She’s also the secret adoptive daughter of the Queen of Lecia. When her adoptive mother reveals that she’s been trained as an assassin her whole life and sends Alerie out on her first mission, Alerie discovers that things may not be as they seem.
This book starts off pretty slow but picks up quickly. I really enjoyed the side characters we are introduced to as the story progresses. I can see the set up for a really strong found family trope. Longoria did a wonderful job creating a unique fae world that wasn’t too confusing. Seeing Alerie’s eyes open to the lies that she was fed her entire life was really cool and I enjoyed her comparison of her new freedom to her old life. I did see the big twist coming but it didn’t make it hit any less. The cliffhanger?! I need book 2 like right now. I’m excited to see the relationship between Eren and Alerie develop further.
Between Roses and Evergreens is out now!!
Thank you to Liliana Longoria and her team for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review!
☀️ Fated Lovers
☀️ Assassin FMC
☀️ Lost Heir
☀️ Magical Fae
☀️ Shadow Daddy
Alerie is the top cadet of the Lecian Military Academy. She’s also the secret adoptive daughter of the Queen of Lecia. When her adoptive mother reveals that she’s been trained as an assassin her whole life and sends Alerie out on her first mission, Alerie discovers that things may not be as they seem.
This book starts off pretty slow but picks up quickly. I really enjoyed the side characters we are introduced to as the story progresses. I can see the set up for a really strong found family trope. Longoria did a wonderful job creating a unique fae world that wasn’t too confusing. Seeing Alerie’s eyes open to the lies that she was fed her entire life was really cool and I enjoyed her comparison of her new freedom to her old life. I did see the big twist coming but it didn’t make it hit any less. The cliffhanger?! I need book 2 like right now. I’m excited to see the relationship between Eren and Alerie develop further.
Between Roses and Evergreens is out now!!
Thank you to Liliana Longoria and her team for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review!
November 15, 2024
Between Roses and Evergreens
Liliana Longoria
🧚🏻♂️ Assassin FMC
✨ He falls first
🧚🏻♂️ Fae Romantic Fantasy
✨ Shadow Daddy
🧚🏻♂️ Fated lovers
✨Lost Royal Family
Between Roses and Evergreens offers a fresh and captivating twist on classic fantasy, where our resilient protagonist, Alerie, embarks on a journey into an unknown world brimming with secrets and danger.
Alerie is a compelling and dynamic heroine, navigating her role as a spy for her adoptive mothers while enduring relentless trials. As the story unfolds, she begins to unravel a web of deceit, realizing with the aid of newfound allies that much of what she believed was built on lies.
Although romantasy isn’t usually my genre of choice, this book truly surprised me and opened the door to exploring more within this realm. I cannot get over the ending, I’m going to need the next book ASAP! If you’re drawn to tales brimming with cunning assassins, deep and fated mates, found families, rival kingdoms, and enchanting fae lore, Between Roses and Evergreens is sure to captivate your imagination and leave you craving more.
Liliana Longoria
🧚🏻♂️ Assassin FMC
✨ He falls first
🧚🏻♂️ Fae Romantic Fantasy
✨ Shadow Daddy
🧚🏻♂️ Fated lovers
✨Lost Royal Family
Between Roses and Evergreens offers a fresh and captivating twist on classic fantasy, where our resilient protagonist, Alerie, embarks on a journey into an unknown world brimming with secrets and danger.
Alerie is a compelling and dynamic heroine, navigating her role as a spy for her adoptive mothers while enduring relentless trials. As the story unfolds, she begins to unravel a web of deceit, realizing with the aid of newfound allies that much of what she believed was built on lies.
Although romantasy isn’t usually my genre of choice, this book truly surprised me and opened the door to exploring more within this realm. I cannot get over the ending, I’m going to need the next book ASAP! If you’re drawn to tales brimming with cunning assassins, deep and fated mates, found families, rival kingdoms, and enchanting fae lore, Between Roses and Evergreens is sure to captivate your imagination and leave you craving more.
November 18, 2024
"𝕿𝖍𝖊 𝖎𝖒𝖆𝖌𝖊 𝖔𝖋 𝖍𝖊𝖗 𝖘𝖒𝖎𝖑𝖎𝖓𝖌, 𝖙𝖍𝖊 𝖘𝖔𝖚𝖓𝖉 𝖔𝖋 𝖍𝖊𝖗 𝖑𝖆𝖚𝖌𝖍𝖙𝖊𝖗 𝖍𝖆𝖉 𝖎𝖓𝖙𝖔𝖝𝖎𝖈𝖆𝖙𝖊𝖉 𝖍𝖎𝖒 𝖙𝖔 𝖙𝖍𝖊 𝖕𝖔𝖎𝖓𝖙 𝖙𝖍𝖆𝖙 𝖍𝖎𝖘 𝖉𝖗𝖊𝖆𝖒𝖘 𝖜𝖊𝖗𝖊 𝖋𝖔𝖈𝖚𝖘𝖊𝖉 𝖔𝖓 𝖍𝖊𝖗."
“𝕴 𝖋𝖔𝖚𝖓𝖉 𝖞𝖔𝖚 𝖔𝖓𝖈𝖊, 𝖆𝖓𝖉 𝕴 𝖜𝖎𝖑𝖑 𝖋𝖎𝖓𝖉 𝖞𝖔𝖚 𝖆𝖌𝖆𝖎𝖓."
Alerie has grown up under the thumb of the queen and has spent her life training in lots of different ways. She excels at archery and hand to hand combat, but for some reason, it's never enough for her to graduate. Until one day, Alerie is sent to the mainland as a spy. She's always been told the mainland was a waste land full of wild beasts + rogue assassins. So imagine her surprise when that's not what, or WHO, she finds.
Between Roses + Evergreens is the first book in a wonderful fantasy romance series that you'll love if like fated mates, he falls first, shadow daddy's + lovable side characters!
I really enjoyed this book! I'm so excited to see where it goes from here and to learn more about Alerie and Eren!
huge, huge thank you to Liliana for the arc opportunity!! 🖤💖
“𝕴 𝖋𝖔𝖚𝖓𝖉 𝖞𝖔𝖚 𝖔𝖓𝖈𝖊, 𝖆𝖓𝖉 𝕴 𝖜𝖎𝖑𝖑 𝖋𝖎𝖓𝖉 𝖞𝖔𝖚 𝖆𝖌𝖆𝖎𝖓."
Alerie has grown up under the thumb of the queen and has spent her life training in lots of different ways. She excels at archery and hand to hand combat, but for some reason, it's never enough for her to graduate. Until one day, Alerie is sent to the mainland as a spy. She's always been told the mainland was a waste land full of wild beasts + rogue assassins. So imagine her surprise when that's not what, or WHO, she finds.
Between Roses + Evergreens is the first book in a wonderful fantasy romance series that you'll love if like fated mates, he falls first, shadow daddy's + lovable side characters!
I really enjoyed this book! I'm so excited to see where it goes from here and to learn more about Alerie and Eren!
huge, huge thank you to Liliana for the arc opportunity!! 🖤💖
December 5, 2024
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
*ARC Review*
I really enjoyed this story. It sucked me in pretty quickly and I had a hard time putting it down. The book had a really quick pace and was easy to get into. I think it’s a really great introduction into fantasy. Rather than going heavy on the world building in the beginning, it builds as the story progresses which made it a lot easier to digest.
I enjoyed getting to know Alerie through the book, but I especially loved the tension that was built between Alerie and Eren. The idea of celestial bonds was super intriguing and I hope we get more of them together. I really liked the multiple POVs and getting to see the story play out from the different aspects.
This is the first in a series and I can’t wait to see what is to come after that cliffhanger! There are so many possibilities, I am excited to see where Liliana will take it.
Thank you for the ARC! 💚
*ARC Review*
I really enjoyed this story. It sucked me in pretty quickly and I had a hard time putting it down. The book had a really quick pace and was easy to get into. I think it’s a really great introduction into fantasy. Rather than going heavy on the world building in the beginning, it builds as the story progresses which made it a lot easier to digest.
I enjoyed getting to know Alerie through the book, but I especially loved the tension that was built between Alerie and Eren. The idea of celestial bonds was super intriguing and I hope we get more of them together. I really liked the multiple POVs and getting to see the story play out from the different aspects.
This is the first in a series and I can’t wait to see what is to come after that cliffhanger! There are so many possibilities, I am excited to see where Liliana will take it.
Thank you for the ARC! 💚
November 9, 2024
Between Roses and Evergreens was an interesting take on classic fantasy, where our FMC, Alerie, sets of into a world she knows nothing about.
Alerie is a formidable character who goes through trials and tribulations as her adoptive mothers spy, but slowly discovers, with the help of her new friends and acquaintances, that almost everything she was taught was a lie.
I found this story to be incredibly fast paced and quite surface level in terms of story reasoning and character progression. However, it was very easy to read and Liliana has created a unique world for her debut.
If you love assassins, bonded mates, found family, rival kingdoms, fae, and so much more, you'll love Between Roses and Evergreens!
Thank you so much Liliana Longoria for an early copy of this book.
Alerie is a formidable character who goes through trials and tribulations as her adoptive mothers spy, but slowly discovers, with the help of her new friends and acquaintances, that almost everything she was taught was a lie.
I found this story to be incredibly fast paced and quite surface level in terms of story reasoning and character progression. However, it was very easy to read and Liliana has created a unique world for her debut.
If you love assassins, bonded mates, found family, rival kingdoms, fae, and so much more, you'll love Between Roses and Evergreens!
Thank you so much Liliana Longoria for an early copy of this book.
December 6, 2024
I wanna preface my review by saying that I’m haven’t been much of a fantasy girlie since my grade school days but have recently decided to dabble in the genre again after getting FOMO from all the BookTokers I follow who love fantasy and romantasy. This book was such a perfect choice for my return to the genre. It was easy to follow along with the characters’ backgrounds, world building, and politics, the pacing was perfect, and it’s just the right amount of pages. The mystery behind Alerie’s true heritage intrigued me so much that I was able to predict her background, and that just made me even more excited to continue reading the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you to the author, Liliana Longoria.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you to the author, Liliana Longoria.
January 9, 2025
I have so many mixed feelings about this book. It was an enjoyable read, and I’m excited to see where the story will go in the next installments, but at the same time, I struggled with its execution.
The world-building is incredible. I loved the cozy, fairytale setting and the magic system. The cover perfectly captures the atmosphere of the world. If I could travel to Norvith, I would do so immediately.
The plot is intriguing, with mysteries and enjoyable plot twists, but the pacing is quite slow, as the information we already know is often told in multiple conversations between the characters.
However, what didn’t completely convince me were the characters, especially Alerie and Eren.
At first, I thought Alerie was incredible—a highly trained assassin and spy sent on a mission to an unknown land—but as the story progressed, she came across as rather naive, trusting people without much skepticism, which is something a trained spy would never do.
Eren also felt somewhat unrealistic. While I enjoyed him as the love interest and appreciated how the romance develops (expect for unpredictable plot twists), his demeanor felt a bit off—sweet, but slightly odd.
Nevertheless, I believe both Alerie and Eren have potential. The novel ends on a cliffhanger that leaves you stunned. Once again, I loved the world-building and the history of Norvith, and I’m thrilled that the author is planning to release some prequel novellas as well.
I received an advanced reader copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The world-building is incredible. I loved the cozy, fairytale setting and the magic system. The cover perfectly captures the atmosphere of the world. If I could travel to Norvith, I would do so immediately.
The plot is intriguing, with mysteries and enjoyable plot twists, but the pacing is quite slow, as the information we already know is often told in multiple conversations between the characters.
However, what didn’t completely convince me were the characters, especially Alerie and Eren.
At first, I thought Alerie was incredible—a highly trained assassin and spy sent on a mission to an unknown land—but as the story progressed, she came across as rather naive, trusting people without much skepticism, which is something a trained spy would never do.
Eren also felt somewhat unrealistic. While I enjoyed him as the love interest and appreciated how the romance develops (expect for unpredictable plot twists), his demeanor felt a bit off—sweet, but slightly odd.
Nevertheless, I believe both Alerie and Eren have potential. The novel ends on a cliffhanger that leaves you stunned. Once again, I loved the world-building and the history of Norvith, and I’m thrilled that the author is planning to release some prequel novellas as well.
I received an advanced reader copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 5, 2024
between roses and evergreens is a fast and lighthearted read. there’s a good romantic subplot for those who enjoy that sort of thing, but it’s not too prominent for those who don’t. the world is complex but not too confusing.
all the characters were enjoyable but i felt a slight disconnect between myself and them. both alerie and eren were (what i’d consider) perfectly fine main characters, but it felt like there was a barrier that i couldn’t get through to fully immerse myself with them. because of this, i felt indifferent with the turn of events.
this book centres has a heavy focus lies and monarchy deceit, and how having an absolutist control can affect the residents living within it. without going into spoilers, i really like how the author handled this and carefully explained each “side” and how/why they believe the things they do.
the beginning of this book was really captivating and the last 5% was so intense. the middle part was a bit repetitive and lacked pacing. the climax itself, being condensed into the last 5% felt rather lacklustre and anticlimactic as it was resolved far too easily. however the cliffhanger at the very end has rejuvenated my excitement for this book, and I’m eager to read the sequel to see where things go next.
all the characters were enjoyable but i felt a slight disconnect between myself and them. both alerie and eren were (what i’d consider) perfectly fine main characters, but it felt like there was a barrier that i couldn’t get through to fully immerse myself with them. because of this, i felt indifferent with the turn of events.
this book centres has a heavy focus lies and monarchy deceit, and how having an absolutist control can affect the residents living within it. without going into spoilers, i really like how the author handled this and carefully explained each “side” and how/why they believe the things they do.
the beginning of this book was really captivating and the last 5% was so intense. the middle part was a bit repetitive and lacked pacing. the climax itself, being condensed into the last 5% felt rather lacklustre and anticlimactic as it was resolved far too easily. however the cliffhanger at the very end has rejuvenated my excitement for this book, and I’m eager to read the sequel to see where things go next.
November 7, 2024
I was honored to read Between Roses and Evergreens as an ARC.
Looking for a fantasy, dungeon and dragons type read? Look no further. Between Roses and Evergreens is the story for you! This book had me hooked from chapter 1. The world and lore building is so smooth and clean, making it super easy to follow and picture in your mind.
Cant wait for book 2! Thank you again to the author, Liliana Longoria for sending me an ARC!
Looking for a fantasy, dungeon and dragons type read? Look no further. Between Roses and Evergreens is the story for you! This book had me hooked from chapter 1. The world and lore building is so smooth and clean, making it super easy to follow and picture in your mind.
Cant wait for book 2! Thank you again to the author, Liliana Longoria for sending me an ARC!
November 18, 2024
"That familar voice, a voice like honey. She turned back, unable to see anything else in the reflection. He stood before her then, his face covered by the shadow of the night."
Between Roses and Evergreens is as if Dungeons and Dragons and Romantasy had a baby. Inspired by Liliana's own D&D character, Alerie's adventures take you through a fictional land filled with magic. You also get to mee get sister through adoption Isabell, and Alerie's love interst Eren. This is low spice, mostly just tension. HE FALLS FIRST! Eren comes across as a know-it-all golden retriever. Alerie is a bad B.
Between Roses and Evergreens is as if Dungeons and Dragons and Romantasy had a baby. Inspired by Liliana's own D&D character, Alerie's adventures take you through a fictional land filled with magic. You also get to mee get sister through adoption Isabell, and Alerie's love interst Eren. This is low spice, mostly just tension. HE FALLS FIRST! Eren comes across as a know-it-all golden retriever. Alerie is a bad B.
December 4, 2024
4.5 ✨
Between Roses and Evergreens by Liliana Longoria is a heady mix of interesting fae folk, political intrigue, and delectable mystery. It gives a sort of story like Fern Gully crossed with Throne of Glass. The pace is snappy, the world building is gradual and the characters all have unique differences that makes this work refreshing. I was so happy to be able to read this as an ARC. And I offer my review voluntarily.
4.5/5
Between Roses and Evergreens by Liliana Longoria is a heady mix of interesting fae folk, political intrigue, and delectable mystery. It gives a sort of story like Fern Gully crossed with Throne of Glass. The pace is snappy, the world building is gradual and the characters all have unique differences that makes this work refreshing. I was so happy to be able to read this as an ARC. And I offer my review voluntarily.
4.5/5
December 6, 2024
I hardly ever reached for books like this but i'm glad i did for this one, this book not only caught my attention from the very first chapter but the way it was written is well done. the story line is perfect and well thought out, it's kept me wanting to read more especially when i was too busy to stop and read its all i thought about. i can't wait to read any other books from this talented author!!
December 8, 2024
Shadow daddy ✅
Assassin FMC ✅
Romance ✅
I love me a good romance, I love me a good shadow daddy, I love me a BAD ASS FMC.
This book kept me really entertained but it wasn’t until the end that I really felt like I was on the edge of my seat and couldn’t put it down. It took me a little to get into it but I glad I kept going!
The world building the amazing and that cliffhanger.. YESSS.
Cannot wait to read what comes next 😍😍
Assassin FMC ✅
Romance ✅
I love me a good romance, I love me a good shadow daddy, I love me a BAD ASS FMC.
This book kept me really entertained but it wasn’t until the end that I really felt like I was on the edge of my seat and couldn’t put it down. It took me a little to get into it but I glad I kept going!
The world building the amazing and that cliffhanger.. YESSS.
Cannot wait to read what comes next 😍😍
December 18, 2024
Talk about being hooked throughout the whole book. This was my first introduction to this author & i immediately wanted more upon finishing the book. Obviously I’ll maintain some patience but like 👀👀👀 Alerie gets sent on this secret mission from the Queen (aka her foster mother) after an attempted assassination. Her mission: gather intel 🤨 along the way stuff starts to unravel. It was a really good book tbh.
January 1, 2025
I absolutely love this author! I am fully invested in this series and will be buying this whole series!
Here’s why: Alerie is pulling the vibes of Bloom from Winx club, there’s so much magic and politics involved and don’t even get me started on the tropes involved! Fated mates, hidden identities, oh and found family!? Give me more of this love. All hail Eren and his gentleman ways! Eagerly awaiting the next arrival!
Here’s why: Alerie is pulling the vibes of Bloom from Winx club, there’s so much magic and politics involved and don’t even get me started on the tropes involved! Fated mates, hidden identities, oh and found family!? Give me more of this love. All hail Eren and his gentleman ways! Eagerly awaiting the next arrival!
December 1, 2024
i really enjoyed this book and was super into it. i couldn’t put it down and didn’t want it to end. alerie was great and i loved her story. eren was fantastic and i loved him from the beginning. i really enjoyed the three povs we got and thought it really added to the story. grateful for the opportunity to arc read this book and cannot wait for the next one!
December 5, 2024
For my fantasy girlies that want more fantasy and slow burn than spice, here's your sign. The world building is fantastic and we dive into Alerie's life as well as Isabelle and Eren. We get to view things from more than just the FMC and MMC's POV and that is really neat! There are two plot lines that converge at the end and leave us waiting for what comes next!
December 5, 2024
I loved this book, the world building, tropes and characters (that shadow daddy though 😮💨)
It was a great fast paced read, and I definitely am looking forward to reading the next book in the series after the cliff hanger ending!
Would completely 100% recommend!! I appreciate so much being able to be an arc reader for this 🩶
It was a great fast paced read, and I definitely am looking forward to reading the next book in the series after the cliff hanger ending!
Would completely 100% recommend!! I appreciate so much being able to be an arc reader for this 🩶
December 14, 2024
Such a good, quick fantasy read. Fast paced and easy to follow. The author creates such an amazing fae world filled with mystery as Aleria fights to discover the truth of the world around her and wbi she is. This book is the first in a series and definitely left me wanting more. I need to find out what will happen with Aleria next and am so excited to see how things may develop with Eren.
December 19, 2024
I enjoyed this fantasy, but we aren't really to the romance yet. The story definitely has me wanting to read the next book to see what happens. The FMC is definitely a strong lead and seeing how the MMC handles that while truly being strong himself was interesting.
Lost royal family
First in series
Fated mates
Romantic fantasy
He falls first
Cliff hanger
Lost royal family
First in series
Fated mates
Romantic fantasy
He falls first
Cliff hanger
December 31, 2024
I absolutely love this author! I am fully invested in this series and will be buying this whole series!
Here’s why: Alerie is pulling the vibes of Bloom from Winx club, there’s so much magic and politics involved and don’t even get me started on the tropes involved! Fated mates, hidden identities, oh and found family!? Give me more of this love. All hail Eren and his gentleman ways!
Here’s why: Alerie is pulling the vibes of Bloom from Winx club, there’s so much magic and politics involved and don’t even get me started on the tropes involved! Fated mates, hidden identities, oh and found family!? Give me more of this love. All hail Eren and his gentleman ways!
November 15, 2024
4.5 rounded up 🤝
What an interesting journey this book takes you on, very well written and a mix between fantasy, dystopian and all things will they won’t they romance, seeing the character develop within themselves leaves me wanting more and I can’t wait for book 2 😍
What an interesting journey this book takes you on, very well written and a mix between fantasy, dystopian and all things will they won’t they romance, seeing the character develop within themselves leaves me wanting more and I can’t wait for book 2 😍
November 21, 2024
The detail in the world building is great. She’s new to this part of the world, so the explanations make sense.
It has fated mates, found family, she’s the badass main character and he falls first.
I’m looking forward to book 2 already!!
It has fated mates, found family, she’s the badass main character and he falls first.
I’m looking forward to book 2 already!!
November 27, 2024
I love how this story jumps you right into the intrigue of it all. Great storytelling, complex characters, and a world of magic and fae that I want to live in. This is book one and that's the only thing I didn't like- that I have to wait now for book two.
December 6, 2024
This book was so enchanting I was hooked on the first page! The world building she accomplished is top notch. Her characters are so full of life they pull you in and have you following their every move. I cannot wait for more!
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