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The Provincial Elf
Lobikno
Fate’s a meddling son-of-a-b*tch and I’ll choke him if I ever get the chance!
For seventeen years I lived a happy life with family and friends. But that bastard can’t leave well enough alone.
The world outside our nation has gone to sh*t, so the Crown asked me to set up a boarder outpost. Oh, and play diplomat with the nearby elven refugees. That’s equivalent to asking the boogieman to babysit, but the list of candidates really was one dark-elf long.
I packed my bags for Calet ready to say “I told you so,” but then this girl fell into my arms …
Alice
For months, strange creatures prowled the outskirts of our small farming village, frightening anyone unlucky enough to find them. When we received word a permanent military presence was coming, we all heaved a sigh of relief.
At least until they arrived.
The dark-elf captain in charge of the new outpost, with scars and intense crimson eyes, left the woodland-elves up in arms!
Captain Lobikno was an intimidating figure, but he was also kind and playful, hardly a monster!
Can I get the elves to see how hard he’s trying to help us all, or will my efforts drive our communities further apart? And for pity’s sake, can someone figure out where all of these monsters are coming from?
Fate’s a meddling son-of-a-b*tch and I’ll choke him if I ever get the chance!
For seventeen years I lived a happy life with family and friends. But that bastard can’t leave well enough alone.
The world outside our nation has gone to sh*t, so the Crown asked me to set up a boarder outpost. Oh, and play diplomat with the nearby elven refugees. That’s equivalent to asking the boogieman to babysit, but the list of candidates really was one dark-elf long.
I packed my bags for Calet ready to say “I told you so,” but then this girl fell into my arms …
Alice
For months, strange creatures prowled the outskirts of our small farming village, frightening anyone unlucky enough to find them. When we received word a permanent military presence was coming, we all heaved a sigh of relief.
At least until they arrived.
The dark-elf captain in charge of the new outpost, with scars and intense crimson eyes, left the woodland-elves up in arms!
Captain Lobikno was an intimidating figure, but he was also kind and playful, hardly a monster!
Can I get the elves to see how hard he’s trying to help us all, or will my efforts drive our communities further apart? And for pity’s sake, can someone figure out where all of these monsters are coming from?
546 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 3, 2025
2 people are currently reading
26 people want to read
About the author
M.M. Rees
3 books46 followersM.M. Rees was raised on fantasy and sci-fi television, movies, and most importantly, literature. An avid reader in her early years, she discovered a love of writing in high school that carried through to her adult life. The Oracle's Journey is her debut as an author and she is presently working on it's sequels.
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
April 24, 2025
I adored Lobikno and Alice's stories and how they converged into one. It's fantasy with real-life elements, and together they make for a wonderful love story that leaves you feeling satisfied. M. M. Rees has done it again!
June 8, 2025
Loved this book so so much!!!! Lobikno is such a sweetheart and even tho he’s been thru so much and has deep wounds and many scars, he lets Alice in and together they’re just so freaking ✨cute✨
Alice is such a ray of sunshine thru it all! She’s always there for him and is so supportive and amazing, I just love her so much!
They do have to fight off some beasties (both human and magical) but in the end it’s a beautiful HEA.
Definitely recommend this book! I can’t wait to see what’s next! 💜
Alice is such a ray of sunshine thru it all! She’s always there for him and is so supportive and amazing, I just love her so much!
They do have to fight off some beasties (both human and magical) but in the end it’s a beautiful HEA.
Definitely recommend this book! I can’t wait to see what’s next! 💜
March 19, 2025
A soul-gripping tale weaved masterfully by M.M.Rees,about healing through love.
After all the abuse and battles, Lobikno settled with his job and his children but when he's promoted to captain and assigned to Alice's village things are going to change.
Her light and sweetness will help his battered heart to start mending while fighting the prejudice against Elfs and the mystery of the strange creatures popping around the village.
The story is complex ,the plot is solid,the descriptions,attencion to detail,the internal dialogue is just masterfull .
The author painted vivid images in my mind through her words and the characters felt real.
She found a perfect balance of angst,drama,romance and love.
Their interactions ,the banter are absolutely delicious and not even talking about Lobikno's crass mouth....HOT!
If you liked the Oracle’s Journey and the Goddess gift ,you'll love Provincial Elf!
After all the abuse and battles, Lobikno settled with his job and his children but when he's promoted to captain and assigned to Alice's village things are going to change.
Her light and sweetness will help his battered heart to start mending while fighting the prejudice against Elfs and the mystery of the strange creatures popping around the village.
The story is complex ,the plot is solid,the descriptions,attencion to detail,the internal dialogue is just masterfull .
The author painted vivid images in my mind through her words and the characters felt real.
She found a perfect balance of angst,drama,romance and love.
Their interactions ,the banter are absolutely delicious and not even talking about Lobikno's crass mouth....HOT!
If you liked the Oracle’s Journey and the Goddess gift ,you'll love Provincial Elf!
May 3, 2025
"Alright, let's dive in! At first, chapter one had me doing a bit of a double-take. I was a little disoriented, trying to figure out the timeline. (Maybe my brain needed a jumpstart! haha) I quickly realized we'd jumped forward quite a few years, and we were meeting Oz and Lobikno's kids. I think a quick recap, something like, 'Years later, Oz has children,' might have eased the transition a touch, but honestly, it didn't take long to get hooked.
And oh, Lobikno. My heart is already breaking for him. He's such a beautifully damaged soul, and seeing him and Lhoris as knights just warmed me. The boys' drinking scene? Classic! And Alice… I'm definitely sensing an attraction there. But how does that work with his bond to Oz? Intriguing!
Seriously, a near-attack by a potato? That's comedy gold! I’m picturing Togo the halfling like a pint-sized Frodo, and I'm loving every minute of it. Alice and Christophe’s dynamic is fantastic, and her interactions with Lobikno are hilarious. Seeing him react to her is just priceless. I'm also not entirely sure what to make of Barrault, though... something's off there. And poor Alice, dealing with that mother! And I would love to know Nanette's backstory?
I’m now deep into the book and it’s flowing perfectly. I'm so invested in Lobikno's internal struggles. That 'inner dickhead' is a constant battle, but I think it’s ultimately driving him to be a better person. His interactions with Alice are changing my perception of him. I'm seeing him in a whole new light, and honestly, he's become incredibly compelling.
My heart aches for Lobikno and Rhisikho's bond. I'm desperately hoping that Alice will be his anchor when that bond inevitably breaks, preventing him from spiraling into darkness. The writing on the wall? Pure tension! I was both worried and excited, wondering if he'd react with anger or retreat to protect Alice.
Soliana… what's her deal? Lobikno's been nothing but kind, and as Alice points out, he's no threat. I'm really hoping she'll see him in a more positive light. And a chameleon-like ability to change color? That's so cool! Those pixies, though? Little terrors! And a minotaur? Amazing! I'm crossing my fingers that the woodland elves will finally welcome Lobikno.
The scene where Lobikno opens up to Alice, with Oshurli there to support her? Absolutely perfect. My heart melted. The interactions with the elves and Rhisikho are unsettling, though. Where are the children? Alice's gentle patience with Lobikno is everything he needs.
I'm loving the progress with the woodland elves, but I'm still wondering about Soliana. Where did she go? Will she return? And will she finally understand Lobikno?
And those Hartlys? Total jerks! And a lettuce tortoise? Genius! How did you even come up with that?
The loss of Alice and Christophe's parents is so sad. And what was that creature? So mysterious!
Finally, Emma! I'm so thrilled for lobikno and Alice, the lord and lady status, Emma's pregnancy, and her kids. She's always been a favorite character. I'm absolutely loving this book!"
And oh, Lobikno. My heart is already breaking for him. He's such a beautifully damaged soul, and seeing him and Lhoris as knights just warmed me. The boys' drinking scene? Classic! And Alice… I'm definitely sensing an attraction there. But how does that work with his bond to Oz? Intriguing!
Seriously, a near-attack by a potato? That's comedy gold! I’m picturing Togo the halfling like a pint-sized Frodo, and I'm loving every minute of it. Alice and Christophe’s dynamic is fantastic, and her interactions with Lobikno are hilarious. Seeing him react to her is just priceless. I'm also not entirely sure what to make of Barrault, though... something's off there. And poor Alice, dealing with that mother! And I would love to know Nanette's backstory?
I’m now deep into the book and it’s flowing perfectly. I'm so invested in Lobikno's internal struggles. That 'inner dickhead' is a constant battle, but I think it’s ultimately driving him to be a better person. His interactions with Alice are changing my perception of him. I'm seeing him in a whole new light, and honestly, he's become incredibly compelling.
My heart aches for Lobikno and Rhisikho's bond. I'm desperately hoping that Alice will be his anchor when that bond inevitably breaks, preventing him from spiraling into darkness. The writing on the wall? Pure tension! I was both worried and excited, wondering if he'd react with anger or retreat to protect Alice.
Soliana… what's her deal? Lobikno's been nothing but kind, and as Alice points out, he's no threat. I'm really hoping she'll see him in a more positive light. And a chameleon-like ability to change color? That's so cool! Those pixies, though? Little terrors! And a minotaur? Amazing! I'm crossing my fingers that the woodland elves will finally welcome Lobikno.
The scene where Lobikno opens up to Alice, with Oshurli there to support her? Absolutely perfect. My heart melted. The interactions with the elves and Rhisikho are unsettling, though. Where are the children? Alice's gentle patience with Lobikno is everything he needs.
I'm loving the progress with the woodland elves, but I'm still wondering about Soliana. Where did she go? Will she return? And will she finally understand Lobikno?
And those Hartlys? Total jerks! And a lettuce tortoise? Genius! How did you even come up with that?
The loss of Alice and Christophe's parents is so sad. And what was that creature? So mysterious!
Finally, Emma! I'm so thrilled for lobikno and Alice, the lord and lady status, Emma's pregnancy, and her kids. She's always been a favorite character. I'm absolutely loving this book!"
March 31, 2025
THE HEALING POWER OF LOVE
"But the wisdom of my heart tells me you are worth it, Lobikno." - Alice
Book 3 of the Elves of Alaire series is all about Lobikno, the grumpy dark elf from the first two books has a story all to himself. This character deserves all the that the healing power of love can give. While he has the support and unconditional love of his family, his soul needs so much more. Knowing his back story and how broken and tortured he is, makes for a heart wrenching story of not just the healing his soul but also his heart. Alice is written with such beauty, that there is no doubt she is the one to not only help Lobikno but also her community. With obstacles around every corner from monsters to the prejudices of both man and elf, their love story is one fraught with dangers but rewarded with love and acceptance. The banter between the characters is witty and light hearted and an excellent reprieve from the darkness in their lives. The writing is descriptive and you feel the emotions on every page and have a vested interest in seeing a peaceful, loving end. M.M. Rees brings it all in this story and doesn't hold back, her writing is amazing and this slow burn, healing romance is a perfect addition to this series and an absolute must read for anyone who enjoys a story told with passion and heart.
"But the wisdom of my heart tells me you are worth it, Lobikno." - Alice
Book 3 of the Elves of Alaire series is all about Lobikno, the grumpy dark elf from the first two books has a story all to himself. This character deserves all the that the healing power of love can give. While he has the support and unconditional love of his family, his soul needs so much more. Knowing his back story and how broken and tortured he is, makes for a heart wrenching story of not just the healing his soul but also his heart. Alice is written with such beauty, that there is no doubt she is the one to not only help Lobikno but also her community. With obstacles around every corner from monsters to the prejudices of both man and elf, their love story is one fraught with dangers but rewarded with love and acceptance. The banter between the characters is witty and light hearted and an excellent reprieve from the darkness in their lives. The writing is descriptive and you feel the emotions on every page and have a vested interest in seeing a peaceful, loving end. M.M. Rees brings it all in this story and doesn't hold back, her writing is amazing and this slow burn, healing romance is a perfect addition to this series and an absolute must read for anyone who enjoys a story told with passion and heart.
June 10, 2025
Ok so this was probably my favorite of the series. Still mid but more enjoyable. Poor sweet traumatized Lobikno. His self hate inner monologue was annoying for lack of a better word but it was part of the emotional experience I guess. They never really concluded the storyline of the fae coming to overtake the land and wreak havoc and kill everyone etc. it was just like ok let’s just slap a giant ward over the village and that’s that. Like ok bet. Still not a fan of the whole “incident” pregnancy with oz and the brothers. And the unwanted “bond” between oz and lobikno making their relationship strained for 17 years. That being said Alice and lobikno were adorable. Their first official spicy scene like 80% into the story was hot. Lobikno goes from traumatized wounded victim to get on your knees and call me dadddy in 2.5 seconds so it didn’t track but I still enjoyed it 😭😅
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 4, 2025
I had a soft spot for Lobikno after book 2 I am so glad that he got to shine in this one. I loved Alice's journey to a stronger woman yet still kind and empathic. I cannot wait to learn more about this pair's evolution as a couple in book 4.
I loved the introduction of the halflings and Togo. Halflings are always great crass characters and Togo is no different. <3.
The I hope that the lettuce-tortoise (I can't spell how Lobikno said it) is still okay <3
I am excited to see what is in store for this world. I am sure Lord Lobikno can handle it, oh yeah Alice he has something to tell you.
I loved the introduction of the halflings and Togo. Halflings are always great crass characters and Togo is no different. <3.
The I hope that the lettuce-tortoise (I can't spell how Lobikno said it) is still okay <3
I am excited to see what is in store for this world. I am sure Lord Lobikno can handle it, oh yeah Alice he has something to tell you.
June 10, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. I like getting to Know Lobikno better. Seeing him work thru everything he has been through and finding happiness is great. I am glad that he finally got to be properly loved by a woman and enjoyed himself as well.
I am weird and also LOVE M.M.'s description of the pixies and Lortoise. I hope to one day see art for them lol. I look forward to more stories from this world.
I am weird and also LOVE M.M.'s description of the pixies and Lortoise. I hope to one day see art for them lol. I look forward to more stories from this world.
March 26, 2025
M. M. Rees takes back into the fantastical world she has created with dark elves, woodland elves, goblins, humans, halflings, monsters, and a demigoddess just for kicks.
Somehow she intertwines so many elements of this world into a world of wonder where you're cheering for the hero and heroine to get their happy ending. (Spoiler! They do!)
A thoroughly enjoyable book.
Somehow she intertwines so many elements of this world into a world of wonder where you're cheering for the hero and heroine to get their happy ending. (Spoiler! They do!)
A thoroughly enjoyable book.
August 4, 2025
The Provincial Elf is book 3 in the Elves Of Alaire series. I read this series in order and I would highly recommend doing the same so you don't miss out on any of the backstory. I feel like each book gets better. This book is fantastic, I love how the story progresses. I also enjoyed the characters.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews