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The Courtly Love #1

Tangled in Fae

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Fans of Merry Gentry, Alex Craft, or JD Ward, or will adore this smoldering love story.

Isolde was raised simply in the mountains, her days spent listening to tales of magic and fairies with a religious fervor that outcasted her. For that was what those tales all were. Just fairy tales. Until the day they weren’t.

The day magic and fairies returned; Isolde used her knowledge to protect herself. She remained when everyone else fled. Alone, when the Unseelie Fae came for her, no one would know to save her.

Forced to join a life-or-death competition for a crown she doesn't want, the other competitors bet on an outcome she must protect herself against. All that keeps her alive are her three enticing bodyguards. Each man works diligently to distract her from her grim fate, while she sets to out win each task set before her.

Thrown together against impossible odds, they fall hard into the sharp blade of love. Yet, they know one fact to be the Throne is too powerful for a human to sit upon. There is only one way to win. Can love survive such a dangerous endeavor? Or will all Isolde has found be sacrificed on the altar of hope?

430 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 26, 2024

85 people are currently reading
470 people want to read

About the author

Evelyne Crowe

4 books15 followers

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5 stars
43 (46%)
4 stars
20 (21%)
3 stars
16 (17%)
2 stars
9 (9%)
1 star
4 (4%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
Profile Image for Dawn.
10 reviews7 followers
March 26, 2024
I received an ARC of this from the author and I could not put it down.

This was my first "why choose" romance and WOW! I was hooked from the very beginning.

The world building and descriptions really draw you in from the start. Isolde, the FMC, goes through more than you could imagine, however, she never gives up, she never quits and she keeps fighting and believing in her found family.

I love the relationship and dynamic between all of the main characters and I am dying to see where this story goes in future books. I really appreciated the consent aspects of the BDSM content and the care that was taken to ensure how the relationship was presented.

There are so many twists and turns in the book that you won't see coming until you read the words. Get this book, devour it, enjoy it, soak it up and love the characters as much as I do. You won't regret it.
Profile Image for Alix.
367 reviews
December 28, 2024
I'm so happy I got this off of my first ever Stuff Your Kindle Day.

Reading it felt super easy and just straight on brought into the story. Finished it within a day after having numerous months of reading slump.

I feel like this might be my first ever reverse harem book, and I feel like this book did great introducing me to this new type of genre.

Can't wait to see how the story goes on!
Profile Image for YarnWyvern.
154 reviews10 followers
April 15, 2024
4.5 rounded up

Rtc

Thanks to the author for an advanced copy!
Profile Image for Andi McClane.
Author 6 books41 followers
May 17, 2024
I can’t say enough about this book!!! Live action tattoos, human in a far court competition, and a hoard of men who flip the script!!! Also, Draven is mine so back up!!! Loved this story. Steamy scenes and beautifully written!!
Profile Image for Anissa Cosby.
Author 10 books28 followers
March 13, 2024
Tangled in Fae = hot, sexy, and fun. An amazing world filled with mischief and the right amount of fantasy and romance. Not to mention: three men who are just as obsessed with each other as they are for their woman. -chef's kiss-

I had the privilege of being an alpha/beta reader for this novel and got to see it in its conception and watch it grow.

Isolde is called upon (read forced) to participate in a competition to win the Throne of Fairy. As a human she is constantly underestimated. She is the strong, badass FMC you want on your side in a fight and zombie apocalypse (I just swear she'd rock it out). She proved several times over that being human can still be powerful in itself. That we don't have to be "magical" in order to overcome battles and be strong. After she meets three fae: Draven, Talon (swoon), and Leviathan, she quickly realizes she can have them all if she truly wants to. AND she does, of course. She took to being a switch *yum* quickly and she's so damn saucy. She's up there on my top 10 book girlfriends.

Talon is lust incarnate. Handsome, sexy, and devious. The tall, dark, and handsome type if I may say. After plucking Isolde out of her comfortable life, he realizes there's more to her than he planned for. His sunshine personality lights up the troop and he'll have you laughing with his antics. His (my) favorite nickname is "darlin'". Um. Yeah.

Leviathan is BAEEEE. He's so sweet but strong as well. He is the perfect example of a quiet strength. You *know* he's powerful but he doesn't have to flaunt it. He cares and protects his lovers and will do anything to keep them safe. It's a wonderful thing that he is robust and not the stereotypical "muscular and cut" MMC that we are used to seeing. There are different ways to show strength and I really enjoy how Crowe created Levi to be an example of that. He's a subbie and I LOVE THAT OMG.

Last but certainly not least we have Draven. Our demon. He takes his role as bodyguard seriously and he is that presence you can feel a mile away. He has his moments where he is so sweet, and then his moments where he can be very scary when his lovers are threatened. His loyalty is above and beyond and he makes sure everyone is included. He's our hard dom. And... WHEW LAWD. That's all I can say.

F*ck Vixen. - That's all.

All in all, this book is amazing and a fun read. Go read it!
Profile Image for Bex.
6 reviews
March 19, 2024
With a mix of Appalachian folklore and fairy faith, this was a wonderful ride. From the moment I started the book, I had a hard time putting it down. When I did pick it back up, it was easy to jump right back in and get wrapped up in the richness of the world.

I am new to the why choose romances, but I have to say it is delightful to see the MMCs all care and have relationships with each other as much as they have relationships with Isolde. The dynamic of the group is vibrant and enjoyable. As fantastical as this book is, the depictions of kink felt very grounded in consensual practices and seeing it in a book is wonderful. The spice is a full spice meter for me, just the way I like it.

This book is not with out substance though, the central plot is rife with the politics of the fair folk and a competition overseen by a tyrant of a ruler. The side characters all are just as solid feeling as our beloved main cast. I may or may not have an attachment to one or two of them. While there was no cliffhanger at the end of this book, I am eagerly awaiting the continuation of this wonderful world. For my first foray in Evelyn Crowe's work I am hooked now.
Profile Image for Victoria.
27 reviews
September 11, 2024
I’d give this 3.5 stars.
It was an enjoyable read and the bones of the story were interesting but there were some things that were off. The pacing was very off, like they were in love after 3 days and it felt like they barely knew each other. The plot moved fast but that left little time for character development or relationship building for 3 love interests so it was just jarring. Like spoiler kind of, but she was a prisoner for longer than she lived with her guys yet somehow by the end she was so used to being with them (less than 2 weeks, felt like only 1) it was weird for her to be alone? And then they said a month was a short time, but these basically immortal beings who lived for millennia fell in deep love in 3 days?
There were a few times I was like wait what is happening bc things seemed sudden with no context.
The spice was good, if you’re reading this for spice more than plot then definitely recommend.

I feel like this author shows promise and I’d read the next book in this interconnected stand-alone series.
36 reviews8 followers
March 14, 2024
I came to this book already a fan of Crowe’s strong, evocative prose and equally strong, evocative characters - “Tangled in Fae” delivers on both counts and then some.

THE SPICE MUST FLOW and it is STELLAR! Whew, makes me rethink all the other why choose out there! The men have genuine relationships with each other and their dynamic is so refreshing to see.

Isolde is a badass FMC and I love watching her grow and develop feelings for her men.

Draven is my fave. What’s not to love about a giant red winged demon who’s a gentle and caring Dom? His backstory whew.

Leviathan is my sweet angel tentacle monster and I adore him.

Talon is the mischievous pretty boy who will make you CRY.

DULLAHAN IS MINE I CALLED DIBS FIRST

Crowe writes a convincingly evil queen with solid motivations for her cruelty, along with fast-paced action, genuine emotion, and well-placed spice. I adored this book and the world of Fairy that she has so carefully crafted.
Profile Image for Lisa Bentley.
243 reviews11 followers
March 26, 2024
Absolutely devoured this awesome take on fae, fairies and folk lore!
Isolde is a one of the last humans to live in the forest after magic returns to the world.
She is plagued by voices day and night that mimic her dead loved ones.
Then a stranger comes to call and she is kidnapped and taken to Fairy, the fae realm.
Then it descends into mayhem! She is forced to endure trials and what a rollercoaster ride it was. I literally felt every emotion imaginable.
She ends up having three men as her guards and gets spicy with them all and they get spicy with each other! It was an awesome why choose romance..I loved every second and read this book in a day!
The plot twists were great and the ending was not what I expected to happen at all.
I’m glad there’s going to be another book in the series because I felt so sorry for Dullahan at the end and was hoping we’d learn more about him.
If you love your fantasy action packed and spicy as heck then you’ll love this one ❤️❤️
Profile Image for Jennifer Eyler.
35 reviews3 followers
March 10, 2024
The way I inhaled this book.

This fast-paced why-choose fae romance was so much fun!

Isolde is a smart, quick-thinking, and capable FMC who while is in constant peril, never a damsel. She is kidnapped into the world of Fairy, a place that she had heard tales about throughout her life. When she is forced to participate in a competition for the Queen of Fairy, she is placed under the guard of three Unseelie Fae men and they quickly find themselves falling for her.

The men are all so incredibly sweet but each one so very different from one another. (One even has tentacles 👀👀)

This book leaves on a HEA, is filled with exquisite details of the magical world Isolde is thrown into, and beautifully captured descriptions.

Even though this book does not leave on a cliffhanger, I can’t wait for the next installment!
Profile Image for Brittany.
1,099 reviews37 followers
Read
June 10, 2024
disclaimer: I don’t really give starred reviews. I hope my reviews provide enough information to let you know if a book is for you or not. Find me here: https://linktr.ee/bookishmillennial

I thought this was such an entertaining and delectable paranormal/fantasy why choose romance about Isolde and her paramours. I loved the way Evelyne Crowe weaved in Appalachian folklore and fairy mythology, and thought it was such a fun, clever take. I will absolutely be continuing the series.

steam rating: 4 out of 5

Content Warnings
Graphic: Cursing, Suicide, Violence, Blood, Kidnapping, Death, Murder, Grief, Sexual content, and Emotional abuse
Moderate: Gaslighting, Torture, Sexual harassment, and Abandonment
Minor: Vomit and Confinement
Profile Image for Brittany Pryor.
4 reviews
March 28, 2024
I normally don’t write reviews, but with how good this book is how could I not? I received an ARC from the author, and all I can say is wow! I was hooked from the first page to the last. I haven’t enjoyed a book this much in a while! The story, character description, and world description were all *chef’s kiss* amazing! I’ve never read a “why choose” romance before this, and I’m glad this was my introduction. I loved the dynamic between the characters so much. I never wanted the story to end, but I can’t wait to read more from this world. Normally I read a book just once, but this is one I’ll be reading again and again. If you get the chance to read this, please do!
Profile Image for Kate Jenkins.
Author 8 books8 followers
March 28, 2024
This book was suggested to me by a friend who's books recommendations I trust implicitly and once again I was not disappointed.

This is a fun, fast paced why choose that puts a different spin on the human kidnapped by the fae trope and I loved it.

The world building is amazing , the creatures are stunning and the characters themselves all add their own voices, I love that Isolde is never a weak damsel while still feeling real.

The spice is extremly well written and there is consent all around.

I will definitely be recommending this to my friends
Profile Image for Jordan Schwefel.
36 reviews
May 18, 2024
I LOVED THIS BOOK……From the very first page the author had me drawn into the Isolde’s world. I probably would have finished this in a day if my stupid job didn’t keep me from reading. My favorite genre right now is the reverse haram. I love when authors conjure up an amazing, badass female character that isn’t afraid to love openly and take what she wants.
The images Evelyn conjured up during the spiciness between Isolde and her men had me drooling practically.

I would 100% recommend this book to people.

#fantasy #fae #reverseharam
10 reviews
January 12, 2025
Golden🤌

This book was absolutely spot on ! At first I was getting SJM vibes but it quickly turned into something else entirely! The story line was one that I enjoyed! The characters were portrayed very well. The author was descriptive enough that I was able to picture what was being described , but it wasn’t 3 pages of description for one thing! All of the characters emotions were something I could feel! The spicy level of this book is a 10/10! Had me wishing I was the MFC! I can’t wait to read the next book! Overall this book was one I would recommend!
Profile Image for Courtney Logue.
1 review
March 11, 2024
Buckle up for a wild ride with this read!

I must say this was not at all what I was expecting! The characters were funny and lovable. The story is fast paced and never dull. And the spice! The spice is definitely spicy!

If you’re looking for something that’s new and different while also still having the main components of a why choose that we all love, this is the book for you!

Try not to fall too hard for Leviathan though, he only has eyes for his found family!
2 reviews
March 31, 2024
I always look for characters that I could actually like and enjoy, this book was able to meet everything that I look in for main character, background, along with the villain. I was really pleased to read about how they all grow and become closer as the store goes on. I really recommend if you want to see a love store that is more than just meeting someone and falling in love right away. As an artist as well I can't wait to be able to draw the character as well.
Profile Image for Adam.
70 reviews1 follower
January 13, 2026
The Courtly Love #1: Tangled in Fae by Evelyne Crowe is a dark, sensual fantasy romance where myth collides with survival. When magic returns, mountain-raised Isolde is thrust into a deadly fae competition for a throne she never wanted, guarded by three dangerously alluring protectors. Blending court intrigue, high-stakes trials, and smoldering romance, the story explores desire, power, and sacrifice in a world where love may be the most dangerous gamble of all.
Profile Image for Bug .
19 reviews1 follower
March 20, 2024
10/10 Amazing!!! I loved the in-depth story! the Lore and research that went into the creatures and the world is so thought out and wonderful! and the Characters!!! the Characters!!! For a Why Choose/Reverse Harem Romance book, it is absolutely amazing, each person contributes there own way and it gives the group such a balance!
Profile Image for Y.S. Leija.
Author 2 books3 followers
April 15, 2024
Tangled in Fae is a spicy why choose filled with interesting characters. This book is character driven and the spice is just about everywhere you turn. If you are an avid spice reader you will enjoy Tangled in Fae! This was a fun read and but don’t take my word for it. As always, I welcome you to form your own opinions.

I received this as an ARC, but my opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Elisabeth.
54 reviews2 followers
October 8, 2025
This book delivers everything I want in a fantasy romance rich mythology, a fierce heroine, and a love story that burns brighter with every chapter. The writing is lush and immersive, and the themes of sacrifice, power, and hope give it real depth. Fans of Merry Gentry and A Court of Thorns and Roses will fall head over heels for this one.
Profile Image for Courtny.
457 reviews3 followers
December 3, 2025
if you love Merry Gentry

This book definitely has Merry Gentry vibes but like super light version and just the first book. The focus is definitely the romance with the competition thing as the secondary situation. It was definitely a good book and I highly recommend! I am looking forward to the next one!
Profile Image for Lauren.
282 reviews7 followers
Read
May 1, 2025
"it just worked, somehow, because magic." - actual quote

i genuinely have no idea how to rate this. this is one of the worst books I've ever read but it was also really (unintentionally) funny and it was still engaging enough that I didn't dnf it.
Profile Image for Brittany.
3,525 reviews27 followers
September 17, 2025
This was an interesting why chose romance. I just do not like reading where the guys are together too. It just not my style. I thought it was well written. I wasn't a fan of the ending it was just an okay way to end. Overall an interesting read.
Profile Image for Katie Courtade.
19 reviews
September 30, 2024
Wonderful!

It was an amazing book. While there were a few grammatical errors those are easily overlooked. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and can't wait for the next.
Profile Image for Sammy Jones.
205 reviews25 followers
January 8, 2025
I don’t think I had a line to be crossed, using a tentacle as a dick seems to be it.
Profile Image for Beth.
269 reviews5 followers
March 25, 2024
I have to say…I WANT MY OWN GIANT MURDER CAT!! Such a great fun story. The typical human kidnapped by the fae had many unique departures such as loving demons and a wicked queen regent. With a fae competition rivaling a fae hunger game for the Throne of Fairy, this story does not leave you bored. Fast paced and super spicy, our human heroine gives as good as she gets and saves the Fae from overbearing, evil rule.
Profile Image for Kayla Kinakin.
101 reviews
March 21, 2024
I got an ARC of this and I couldn't put it down.

This was the most refreshing/inclusive take on why-choose I have read in a long time. And the FIRST I've read where the MMCs are just as into each other as they are the FMC.
It makes for many fun and delicious times. 🥵

And while there is plenty of spice, the plot remains cohesive the entire time.

Isolde goes *through* it, and never once turns into the simpering damsel in these situations like stereotypes would imply she should. She knows what she wants and she GETS it
And the villain, Queen Regent Vixen, is such a great evil Queen character. Lovely balance of sexy and heartlessness.

And then you've got the boys.
Leviathan: adorable, soft, golden retriever. With tentacles.🥵
Talon: the sassy, tortured, pretty boy who can sense and manipulate desire. 🥴
And Draven: the cool, calculated demon dom.🫠

I had a lot of fun.
Profile Image for Zelda.
167 reviews
March 28, 2024
What a fun take on the Fae, Fairy, and how the magic of Fairy interacts with the real world.

I received an ARC of this book in return for my honest review.
I enjoyed this book immensely. The spice was fast paced and hooked you immediately. There is a trend recently where romance is leaning more towards poly style relationships vs. “true” reverse harem. And this book does it well, there is a wonderful dynamic between the characters individually and the way they work as a whole is beautiful. Consent is so important between them and is regularly discussed and reaffirmed. The only I would have liked more is to see their individual relationships are fleshed out more.
The story is more medium paced as Isodle works through the tournament, escapes murderous competitors, and fights off a power hungry queen of ice. But the twist and turns along the way will keep you guessing who is really on her side and who is here to watch her fall?

Isodle ultimately gets her Happily Ever After even if it’s not in the way she was expecting. The book ends on a sweet note for her with a great lead in for the next book in this universe.
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