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Court of Cruel Fae #1
Bound to the Fae
Fated mates. Royal fae. A hybrid with dangerous powers.
Never go into the woods. I’ve always listened—until my dog got lost, and I needed to find him.
Everything rapidly spiraled out of control. I landed in the fae realm. And now I’m bound by a deal to the cruel Day Court queen, my estranged grandmother.
She won’t let me leave because I’m the first ever hybrid. Born of two feuding courts and with powers rumored to bring about a new era for the fae realm. She wants me to be her weapon.
While trying to survive her hostile Court, I have to fight for my freedom. But I might not be completely alone.
A Night Court fae lurks in the shadows. He’s dangerous. He’s powerful. He’s actively threatened me. I should keep my distance. But despite everything, I’m drawn to him.
Maybe he can help me escape.
Bound to the Fae features (slight) enemies to lovers, a broody male, a heroine who comes into her own powers, fated mates, steam, touch her and unalive, and a royal fae romance with Romeo and Juliet vibes!
It’s a rocky path, but the trilogy will end with a HEA.
Never go into the woods. I’ve always listened—until my dog got lost, and I needed to find him.
Everything rapidly spiraled out of control. I landed in the fae realm. And now I’m bound by a deal to the cruel Day Court queen, my estranged grandmother.
She won’t let me leave because I’m the first ever hybrid. Born of two feuding courts and with powers rumored to bring about a new era for the fae realm. She wants me to be her weapon.
While trying to survive her hostile Court, I have to fight for my freedom. But I might not be completely alone.
A Night Court fae lurks in the shadows. He’s dangerous. He’s powerful. He’s actively threatened me. I should keep my distance. But despite everything, I’m drawn to him.
Maybe he can help me escape.
Bound to the Fae features (slight) enemies to lovers, a broody male, a heroine who comes into her own powers, fated mates, steam, touch her and unalive, and a royal fae romance with Romeo and Juliet vibes!
It’s a rocky path, but the trilogy will end with a HEA.
387 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 24, 2024
530 people are currently reading
2015 people want to read
About the author
Hailey Gonzales
27 books69 followersHailey Gonzales lives in a small town in California. She adores her dog, Miley, who is the cutest animal in the multiverse. Hailey enjoys writing Urban Fantasy, Fantasy, and occasionally, Contemporary. But most of all, she loves to write about found family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
June 30, 2024
It's too young for me. The FMC starts to annoy me. The only thing that came thru was the romance. It has some smut and I became very uncomfortable knowing they are very young for me to know what they've been doing. Despite the tropes that I love, the writing and plot didn't grab hold for me. It has potential though. I would personally rate it as 2 stars. But because I just scrolled through most of the time, and want to be fair, I'll give it a 3.
July 25, 2024
✰✰✰✰.5/5 -YES YES! I adore this book so much!
🌶🌶.5/5
⋆˖⁺‧₊☽ Tropes ☾₊‧⁺˖⋆
☁︎Forbidden Love☁︎
☁︎Fated Mates☁︎
☁︎Found Magic☁︎
☁︎Opposites Attract☁︎
☁︎Chosen One☁︎
‧͙⁺˚*･༓☾ Thoughts ☽༓･*˚⁺‧͙
☁︎Woah. I was taken on a trip! This was a more fast-paced, less world-building book but more character development! I fell in love with so many characters (especially Mari and Eli)
☁︎The romance was so captivating! The fated mates, forbidden love, the betrayal!! I’m highly anticipating the next book already!
˖⁺‧₊˚☁️˚₊‧⁺˖Recommended for ppl who…˖⁺‧₊˚☁️˚₊‧⁺˖
☁︎love a good cliffhanger☁︎
☁︎fated mates enthusiasts☁︎
☁︎enjoys less world-building and more plot-building ☁︎
☁︎enjoys a vulnerable female heroine☁︎
✩₊˚.⋆☾ Quote(s) ☾⋆⁺₊✧
☁︎❝You don't deserve to be caged. You should be out there, free to make your own choices.❞☁︎
☁︎❝As soon as I saw you, it was like my life started. I can't look away from you. I think about you all the time.❞☁︎
☁︎❝For me, you're the center of my world. My life is yours.❞☁︎
🌶🌶.5/5
⋆˖⁺‧₊☽ Tropes ☾₊‧⁺˖⋆
☁︎Forbidden Love☁︎
☁︎Fated Mates☁︎
☁︎Found Magic☁︎
☁︎Opposites Attract☁︎
☁︎Chosen One☁︎
‧͙⁺˚*･༓☾ Thoughts ☽༓･*˚⁺‧͙
☁︎Woah. I was taken on a trip! This was a more fast-paced, less world-building book but more character development! I fell in love with so many characters (especially Mari and Eli)
☁︎The romance was so captivating! The fated mates, forbidden love, the betrayal!! I’m highly anticipating the next book already!
˖⁺‧₊˚☁️˚₊‧⁺˖Recommended for ppl who…˖⁺‧₊˚☁️˚₊‧⁺˖
☁︎love a good cliffhanger☁︎
☁︎fated mates enthusiasts☁︎
☁︎enjoys less world-building and more plot-building ☁︎
☁︎enjoys a vulnerable female heroine☁︎
✩₊˚.⋆☾ Quote(s) ☾⋆⁺₊✧
☁︎❝You don't deserve to be caged. You should be out there, free to make your own choices.❞☁︎
☁︎❝As soon as I saw you, it was like my life started. I can't look away from you. I think about you all the time.❞☁︎
☁︎❝For me, you're the center of my world. My life is yours.❞☁︎
October 17, 2024
I was intrigued enough by the world-building and plot to read this one, but some of the writing was so poorly edited it was hard to get through. The FMC is pretty annoying 😑 That being said, things picked up at the end, and I'm interested in seeing where this goes.
For Romantasy readers, be warned that while there is a romance plotline, this is pretty heavy on the fantasy world-building. Personally, it worked for me, but I could see some folks wanting more of the romance.
For Romantasy readers, be warned that while there is a romance plotline, this is pretty heavy on the fantasy world-building. Personally, it worked for me, but I could see some folks wanting more of the romance.
June 11, 2024
Loved the world building and mystery in this story! Xyla is such a kind, yet lost, individual. She is loyal and loving toward her mother, and her dog, Bear.
Xyla spends her life moving around, and when she and her mother end up in California, she finally breaks the one rule her mother has had for her through her entire life. Doing so has consequences she never expected, and Xyla goes on a magical, painful, and terrifying journey in Faerie.
Xyla finds friendship, strength, magic, love, and, most surprisingly, finds extreme betrayal. Or is it betrayal? We won't know until the next book, and I am excited to find out!
I rated this 4 stars instead of 5 because I did would have loved more in-depth relationship building between Xyla and her possible fated one.
Xyla spends her life moving around, and when she and her mother end up in California, she finally breaks the one rule her mother has had for her through her entire life. Doing so has consequences she never expected, and Xyla goes on a magical, painful, and terrifying journey in Faerie.
Xyla finds friendship, strength, magic, love, and, most surprisingly, finds extreme betrayal. Or is it betrayal? We won't know until the next book, and I am excited to find out!
I rated this 4 stars instead of 5 because I did would have loved more in-depth relationship building between Xyla and her possible fated one.
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December 3, 2024I got to 8% but this is just not doing it for me. The girl hero is young and naive and the evil grandmother is evil and the mom has caused this issue by not telling her daughter what’s up and the dog is still lost in the woods. Meh
June 20, 2024
This Fae-filled story is pretty awesome!! Xyla goes looking for her dog in the woods, when her mother told her not to and now she's learning all about her heritage and a hard fact that she may never go back to Earth. She definitely tries, though. A for effort. So she's in Fae and has nobody to befriend until she saves Marioxi's life. She even takes the life of her cousin, and is dealing with that pretty hard. Her grandmother is a narcissistic POS who only wants her for her own nefarious gains. Home chick NEEDS out!! Xyla has a love interest, Shadow AKA Night Court Prince, Elijah. *Meow* But can she really trust him? And the ending, thanks for that cliffhanger!! Lol Definitely worth the read for any Fae lovers, slow-burn romance readers!! Impatiently waiting for the next book!!
June 24, 2024
I really really enjoyed it. Loved the characters, especially FMC - Xyla, her character development, her thoughts, her struggles, her personality were all to the point. I liked how she was determined throughout and the reasons behind it. Her bonds with other Faes, some close some distant and all made sense.
And the queen.. I really hate her.
And Eli was good too, and his interactions with Xyla were... Ooff I waited for those. And the little spice in between was a bonus.
And the end... Oh.. it was perfect for sure, I really can't wait to know what happens next..
Overall I just enjoyed the read. So much so that I finished it in just one day, couldn't put it down. Loved it 😍
I definitely recommend this book 📖 to fantasy lovers 😄
And the queen.. I really hate her.
And Eli was good too, and his interactions with Xyla were... Ooff I waited for those. And the little spice in between was a bonus.
And the end... Oh.. it was perfect for sure, I really can't wait to know what happens next..
Overall I just enjoyed the read. So much so that I finished it in just one day, couldn't put it down. Loved it 😍
I definitely recommend this book 📖 to fantasy lovers 😄
July 14, 2024
I struggled with whether to give this book 3 or 4 stars. As you can see I ended up giving it 4 and that’s because I absolutely loved the story. The essence of the story keeps you hooked throughout and definitely leaves you wanting more, especially with that cliffhanger at the end!!
The thing I struggled with the most is that it just needs a really good edit. The book could have easily been about 50 pages shorter if it was edited better, there was so so much repetition and so much info that we just didn’t need. We could have done with more world building instead. There was also an awful lot spelling and grammar mistakes and try as I might they just really pull me out of the story.
I would still love to read book 2 though!
The thing I struggled with the most is that it just needs a really good edit. The book could have easily been about 50 pages shorter if it was edited better, there was so so much repetition and so much info that we just didn’t need. We could have done with more world building instead. There was also an awful lot spelling and grammar mistakes and try as I might they just really pull me out of the story.
I would still love to read book 2 though!
September 7, 2024
Eh.....
There wasn't much chemistry between the characters. I also didn't feel the passion the author was trying to push out.
Xyla wanted to be strong, but to me, her character felt like a doormat. She couldn't make her own decisions. She relied too heavily on others to do most of the work and decision-making. She seemed to be in a constant state of hopelessness and didn't really fight back.
I realize she was limited, but she was utterly useless in a way.
The character growth could have been better. The chemistry definitely needed work.
There wasn't much chemistry between the characters. I also didn't feel the passion the author was trying to push out.
Xyla wanted to be strong, but to me, her character felt like a doormat. She couldn't make her own decisions. She relied too heavily on others to do most of the work and decision-making. She seemed to be in a constant state of hopelessness and didn't really fight back.
I realize she was limited, but she was utterly useless in a way.
The character growth could have been better. The chemistry definitely needed work.
September 9, 2025
I liked how this book captivated me and how Eli and Xyla just went together so well. I liked how their relationship started out, she didn’t know he was a prince and I think if she did, she would have had an opinion about him before meeting him. She got to see a different side of him that she might not have believed had she known.
Xyla was so focused on leaving that she didn’t really think a lot of her plans through fully. She got caught trying to escape the first time and she got caught the second time she tried to escape and by different people each time.
I’m sad that Eli betrayed her, but it seemed like he genuinely didn’t want to and might have been bound to it by something the fae agreed to. He also could have made that deal before knowing she was his mate as well.
Here’s hoping Eli does something to save her from her father! Like what?! Poor girl just can’t escape all the crazy things she got dragged in to!
Xyla was so focused on leaving that she didn’t really think a lot of her plans through fully. She got caught trying to escape the first time and she got caught the second time she tried to escape and by different people each time.
I’m sad that Eli betrayed her, but it seemed like he genuinely didn’t want to and might have been bound to it by something the fae agreed to. He also could have made that deal before knowing she was his mate as well.
Here’s hoping Eli does something to save her from her father! Like what?! Poor girl just can’t escape all the crazy things she got dragged in to!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 22, 2024
ARC review of Bound to the Fae by Hailey Gonzales.
“You deserve so much more than this wretched world.”
Tropes include:
- Royal fae
- Fated mates
- Enemies to lovers
- Forbidden romance
- Elemental magic
- MMC has Shadow powers
- Touch her and ☠️
- Romeo and Juliet vibes
My review:
I went into this book fairly blind. All I’d seen was the tropes. Let me just say, wow! I was very pleasantly surprised. I struggled a bit in the beginning but when it picked up it really picked up! Fated mates is probably one of my favorite tropes and it didn’t disappoint in this book.
The FMC is sassy and tough. The MMC has shadow powers which is another favorite of mine! The forbidden romance and enemies to lovers added depth to the story and kept me interested. Parts were a bit predictable but still told in an entertaining way that kept me interested. And then that ending! You’re going to want the next book right away.
Book overview
Fated mates. Royal fae. A hybrid with dangerous powers.
Never go into the woods. I’ve always listened—until my dog got lost, and I needed to find him.
Everything rapidly spiraled out of control. I landed in the fae realm. And now I’m bound by a deal to the cruel Day Court queen.
She won’t let me leave because I’m the first ever hybrid. Born of two feuding courts and with powers rumored to bring about a new era for the fae realm. She wants me to be her weapon.
While trying to survive her hostile Court, I have to fight for my freedom. But I might not be completely alone.
A Night Court fae lurks in the shadows. He’s dangerous. He’s powerful. He’s actively threatened me. I should keep my distance. But, despite everything, I’m drawn to him.
Maybe he can help me escape.
“You deserve so much more than this wretched world.”
Tropes include:
- Royal fae
- Fated mates
- Enemies to lovers
- Forbidden romance
- Elemental magic
- MMC has Shadow powers
- Touch her and ☠️
- Romeo and Juliet vibes
My review:
I went into this book fairly blind. All I’d seen was the tropes. Let me just say, wow! I was very pleasantly surprised. I struggled a bit in the beginning but when it picked up it really picked up! Fated mates is probably one of my favorite tropes and it didn’t disappoint in this book.
The FMC is sassy and tough. The MMC has shadow powers which is another favorite of mine! The forbidden romance and enemies to lovers added depth to the story and kept me interested. Parts were a bit predictable but still told in an entertaining way that kept me interested. And then that ending! You’re going to want the next book right away.
Book overview
Fated mates. Royal fae. A hybrid with dangerous powers.
Never go into the woods. I’ve always listened—until my dog got lost, and I needed to find him.
Everything rapidly spiraled out of control. I landed in the fae realm. And now I’m bound by a deal to the cruel Day Court queen.
She won’t let me leave because I’m the first ever hybrid. Born of two feuding courts and with powers rumored to bring about a new era for the fae realm. She wants me to be her weapon.
While trying to survive her hostile Court, I have to fight for my freedom. But I might not be completely alone.
A Night Court fae lurks in the shadows. He’s dangerous. He’s powerful. He’s actively threatened me. I should keep my distance. But, despite everything, I’m drawn to him.
Maybe he can help me escape.
June 22, 2024
It was a good book. But here are a few points as why I can only give it 4 stars:
- Esmeralda…her evilness makes my blood boil whenever she turns up
- the Shadow…it was so obvious who he was
- Xyla and her constant inner monologue about how she‘s turning into a monster was a bit too repetitive for my taste
- what was it with that tattoo? It‘s in every chapter! (I have a theory about it and I‘m curious to find out if I‘m right though!)
- Esmeralda mentions that she put her husband into the dungeons so why is Xyla so surprised that her grandfather is still there?
-the world building could have been…just a bit more. After all she‘s been to the library, the solstice, the caves, there are portals… instead of concentrating on the fighting and the whole inner monologue. It would have been nice to get a bit more about the lessons, the world, the history of faery itself
- the father! She trained with a fae from the night court and never asked about her father?
The friendship building between Mari and Xyla was great. Making Mari asexual was cool! I hope she’ll find her mate! She deserves it! And Leland with his poodle was cute. I was also wondering if Mari‘s Dad might have been a bit more than just a bodyguard to the fmc‘s Mum? Only one way to find out ;)
And the cliffhanger at the end? That one was topnotch!
- Esmeralda…her evilness makes my blood boil whenever she turns up
- the Shadow…it was so obvious who he was
- Xyla and her constant inner monologue about how she‘s turning into a monster was a bit too repetitive for my taste
- what was it with that tattoo? It‘s in every chapter! (I have a theory about it and I‘m curious to find out if I‘m right though!)
- Esmeralda mentions that she put her husband into the dungeons so why is Xyla so surprised that her grandfather is still there?
-the world building could have been…just a bit more. After all she‘s been to the library, the solstice, the caves, there are portals… instead of concentrating on the fighting and the whole inner monologue. It would have been nice to get a bit more about the lessons, the world, the history of faery itself
- the father! She trained with a fae from the night court and never asked about her father?
The friendship building between Mari and Xyla was great. Making Mari asexual was cool! I hope she’ll find her mate! She deserves it! And Leland with his poodle was cute. I was also wondering if Mari‘s Dad might have been a bit more than just a bodyguard to the fmc‘s Mum? Only one way to find out ;)
And the cliffhanger at the end? That one was topnotch!
June 13, 2024
Overall a great read. It took little effort to imagine each character with their details. There's a lot of history within each one and it weaves into others stories well in my opinion. For me there wasn't a lot of world building and it vibes with a y.a. book but towards the end with the scenes and verbiage it most definitely isn't for the youth. Slowish burn and mild spice. I was a little defeated with the teenage attitude/mindset when I expected to be "more mature for her age" with her forced lifestyle but her angst is justified in the long run. Would and probably will read again so I can pick up more detail than the initial read. Can't wait for book two! That's a wicked cliff hanger!
Note: I read the darker varieties so for me this was mild and out in left field compared to my normal baseline but I enjoyed it greatly!
Note: I read the darker varieties so for me this was mild and out in left field compared to my normal baseline but I enjoyed it greatly!
June 11, 2024
Received an arc copy of this
3.75 star rating. This was a fun quick read. I liked the plot and where the story is going and finished this in a couple of hours and will continue in the series. It’s a little too insta attraction but still has the tension forbidden love trope to kind of negate that. There are a lot of good plot points I would have loved to see explored more with a little more world building but as is it’s fun quick and has a little spice. I’m excited to see what happens in book 2. I won’t explain all the tropes as it would be too spoilery but does have the long lost princess of the fae that thought she was human, evil grandma, cruel fae, found family kind of, discovery of her mothers past and discovery of self. Forbidden love, tension and training. It’s worth the read
3.75 star rating. This was a fun quick read. I liked the plot and where the story is going and finished this in a couple of hours and will continue in the series. It’s a little too insta attraction but still has the tension forbidden love trope to kind of negate that. There are a lot of good plot points I would have loved to see explored more with a little more world building but as is it’s fun quick and has a little spice. I’m excited to see what happens in book 2. I won’t explain all the tropes as it would be too spoilery but does have the long lost princess of the fae that thought she was human, evil grandma, cruel fae, found family kind of, discovery of her mothers past and discovery of self. Forbidden love, tension and training. It’s worth the read
June 14, 2024
Xyla doesn’t have friends, only her dog Bear and her mom. So it isn’t a surprise she would go after Bear when he runs off. The surprise is where she ends up and how she handles herself. She was always the new kid so maybe she can use those skills to acclimate. But the Fae aren’t looking for a friend they are looking to win a war and she is in the middle. Can she make friends and get back home? I definitely didn’t want to put this book down until the end to see what happens to her.
September 19, 2024
Tropes
*broody MMC with shadow powers
*Day vs Night courts
*enemies to lovers
*forbidden romance
*elemental magic
*hybrid chosen one
*fated mates
Themes:
*Self Discover
*Love vs Duty
Language: yes
Spice 3/5
Xyla is our FMC who is from Earth and gets teleported into the Faerie realm when she goes into the woods looking for her missing dog. Unknowst to her, she is part of a deal her mother made with Xyla's grandmother and now has to fulfill a role she does not want but cannot seem to escape from. Upon her arrival into this new fae world, Xyla learns of family her mother has kept a secret from her along with the fact she is a hybrid of the two courts that reside in Faerie. So with her world thrown upside down, Xyla is now bound to the Day Court Queen she is desperately trying to escape, learning how to navigate her newfound dangerous powers, trying to stay the version of herself she wants to be and not turn into someone she doesn't want to become, and sorting through her feelings when it comes to The Shadow who is a member of the Night Court.
Fast-paced with more of a focus on character development rather than worldbuilding. The general plot/storyline was interesting and there were some good plot twists. There are definitely some areas that could have used more details or descriptions, along with clarification for things. The tattoo she receives in one area that could use clarification, but I can also see how it may have been purposefully left unclarified for reasons we may find out in the second book. Xyla's inner dialogue does repeat itself a lot and becomes very repetitive. And the relationship between her and The Shadow felt very rushed.
The cliffhanger was good! I kind of saw part of it coming but there was one twist to it I definitely didn't see coming and it has me very curious about the continuation of the story.
I would still recommend it, but in my opinion, it feels like a young adult book with adult content in it.
Overall Rating: 6.5/10 or 3/5 stars
plot: 1
pacing: 1
themes: 1
setting: .5
originality: .5
characters: .5
writing style: .5
emotional impact: 0
ending: 1
overall enjoyment: .5
*broody MMC with shadow powers
*Day vs Night courts
*enemies to lovers
*forbidden romance
*elemental magic
*hybrid chosen one
*fated mates
Themes:
*Self Discover
*Love vs Duty
Language: yes
Spice 3/5
Xyla is our FMC who is from Earth and gets teleported into the Faerie realm when she goes into the woods looking for her missing dog. Unknowst to her, she is part of a deal her mother made with Xyla's grandmother and now has to fulfill a role she does not want but cannot seem to escape from. Upon her arrival into this new fae world, Xyla learns of family her mother has kept a secret from her along with the fact she is a hybrid of the two courts that reside in Faerie. So with her world thrown upside down, Xyla is now bound to the Day Court Queen she is desperately trying to escape, learning how to navigate her newfound dangerous powers, trying to stay the version of herself she wants to be and not turn into someone she doesn't want to become, and sorting through her feelings when it comes to The Shadow who is a member of the Night Court.
Fast-paced with more of a focus on character development rather than worldbuilding. The general plot/storyline was interesting and there were some good plot twists. There are definitely some areas that could have used more details or descriptions, along with clarification for things. The tattoo she receives in one area that could use clarification, but I can also see how it may have been purposefully left unclarified for reasons we may find out in the second book. Xyla's inner dialogue does repeat itself a lot and becomes very repetitive. And the relationship between her and The Shadow felt very rushed.
The cliffhanger was good! I kind of saw part of it coming but there was one twist to it I definitely didn't see coming and it has me very curious about the continuation of the story.
I would still recommend it, but in my opinion, it feels like a young adult book with adult content in it.
Overall Rating: 6.5/10 or 3/5 stars
plot: 1
pacing: 1
themes: 1
setting: .5
originality: .5
characters: .5
writing style: .5
emotional impact: 0
ending: 1
overall enjoyment: .5
June 18, 2024
Final rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Romance ❤️🔥, fantasy 🧚🏻♀️🧚🏻♀️🧚🏻♀️🧚🏻♀️🧚🏻♀️
A purely fantasy novel with just a hint of romance. I did not get "touch her and die" vibes from this, barely "Shadow daddy" vibes however it gives book 2&3 a chance to really shine. Even with that I still really loved this book. I have that sense of feeling that we will get that "this is the tax you pay for the rest of the series" and I'm kinda here for it. If you liked ACOTAR this is a great indie to give a chance! I cannot wait for book 2!
Plot 4/5
I found the idea captivating and enticing. Kept you wanting to know what happened next. However a slow burn, where some parts felt very stagnant. I would have loved a bit more action. I didn't find any plot holes persay, but I did wish a few points in the book were expanded deeper and others shortened.
Writing quality& nonrepetitive 4/5
Repititous - I found a few times where I was eye rolling over the repetitive thoughts Xyla has during the entirety of the book.
Writing quality - I felt that the writing quality and style was unique yet familiar. It had a bit of youthful vibe to it, which I was conflicted with whether I liked it or not. In the end I feel like it was well written.
Characters 5/5
The characters were built up thoroughly throughout the book and not crammed into one "descriptive paragraph" which I loved because it gives you time to really get to know each character while not feeling complete informationally overwhelmed.
Ending 5/5
The ending. I love me a good ending. This ending had me SCREAMING. I won't say more in order to prevent spoilers but. THE ENDING. WOW.
Backstory/world building 4.5/5
I found myself feeling a bit of lackluster only with the description of the world in a few points. The world itself was built up great I felt like I could picture it 99% of the time. I just wish at a couple scenes were built up more and I felt robbed of the beauty of the potential.
Would I recommend? YES YES YES. A thousand times yes.
Romance ❤️🔥, fantasy 🧚🏻♀️🧚🏻♀️🧚🏻♀️🧚🏻♀️🧚🏻♀️
A purely fantasy novel with just a hint of romance. I did not get "touch her and die" vibes from this, barely "Shadow daddy" vibes however it gives book 2&3 a chance to really shine. Even with that I still really loved this book. I have that sense of feeling that we will get that "this is the tax you pay for the rest of the series" and I'm kinda here for it. If you liked ACOTAR this is a great indie to give a chance! I cannot wait for book 2!
Plot 4/5
I found the idea captivating and enticing. Kept you wanting to know what happened next. However a slow burn, where some parts felt very stagnant. I would have loved a bit more action. I didn't find any plot holes persay, but I did wish a few points in the book were expanded deeper and others shortened.
Writing quality& nonrepetitive 4/5
Repititous - I found a few times where I was eye rolling over the repetitive thoughts Xyla has during the entirety of the book.
Writing quality - I felt that the writing quality and style was unique yet familiar. It had a bit of youthful vibe to it, which I was conflicted with whether I liked it or not. In the end I feel like it was well written.
Characters 5/5
The characters were built up thoroughly throughout the book and not crammed into one "descriptive paragraph" which I loved because it gives you time to really get to know each character while not feeling complete informationally overwhelmed.
Ending 5/5
The ending. I love me a good ending. This ending had me SCREAMING. I won't say more in order to prevent spoilers but. THE ENDING. WOW.
Backstory/world building 4.5/5
I found myself feeling a bit of lackluster only with the description of the world in a few points. The world itself was built up great I felt like I could picture it 99% of the time. I just wish at a couple scenes were built up more and I felt robbed of the beauty of the potential.
Would I recommend? YES YES YES. A thousand times yes.
February 13, 2025
4 stars
spice: 0.5/5
Wooow... I really adored this book. At six chapters in, I already knew I would love this book, and it didn't disappoint. It got even better!
The plot is great! It got me hooked, and I really loved the whole story throughout the book. There were some things you could foresee, like who her love interest would be, and some things that I didn't see coming, like the end of the book. Such a plottwist and a mean cliffhanger! I just want to know how the story continues. What happens next?
I also liked how the relationship between Xyla and Eli evolved. This book is more focused on Xyla and everything around her than on the romance, but that is absolutely okay for me. It fits well together.
The friendship building between Xyla and Mari was nice, too! And to see how Xyla, even tho she didn't want that, slowly found her place in this new life. The other started to accept her more and more.
Now, some points that made me give only four stars:
I thought after a while, Esmeralda would be more friendly, but I was wrong about it. She's even crueler than I thought.
Xyla and her inner monologue about her turning into a monster and what the place does with someone got annoying after a while. I mean, I can understand why it's constantly brought up since she's struggling with all that. Her thoughts just got really repetetive after a while.
Also, I saw someone mention how she didn't ask about her father, and I have to agree! She spent some time with Eli, a Night Court Fae, and she didn't ask once about her father. Yes, maybe she doesn't want anything to do with him, but I think everyone would get curious and at least ask if he's still alive or what the deal is with him.
Altogether, I really enjoyed the book, and I can't wait to read the rest of the series. I think it will have some answers to the questions I have because of the first book, like her tattoo.
spice: 0.5/5
Wooow... I really adored this book. At six chapters in, I already knew I would love this book, and it didn't disappoint. It got even better!
The plot is great! It got me hooked, and I really loved the whole story throughout the book. There were some things you could foresee, like who her love interest would be, and some things that I didn't see coming, like the end of the book. Such a plottwist and a mean cliffhanger! I just want to know how the story continues. What happens next?
I also liked how the relationship between Xyla and Eli evolved. This book is more focused on Xyla and everything around her than on the romance, but that is absolutely okay for me. It fits well together.
The friendship building between Xyla and Mari was nice, too! And to see how Xyla, even tho she didn't want that, slowly found her place in this new life. The other started to accept her more and more.
Now, some points that made me give only four stars:
I thought after a while, Esmeralda would be more friendly, but I was wrong about it. She's even crueler than I thought.
Xyla and her inner monologue about her turning into a monster and what the place does with someone got annoying after a while. I mean, I can understand why it's constantly brought up since she's struggling with all that. Her thoughts just got really repetetive after a while.
Also, I saw someone mention how she didn't ask about her father, and I have to agree! She spent some time with Eli, a Night Court Fae, and she didn't ask once about her father. Yes, maybe she doesn't want anything to do with him, but I think everyone would get curious and at least ask if he's still alive or what the deal is with him.
Altogether, I really enjoyed the book, and I can't wait to read the rest of the series. I think it will have some answers to the questions I have because of the first book, like her tattoo.
June 24, 2024
Bound to the Fae
“I’m not a nice person, but for you, I want to be”
Bound to the Fae is the first installment of the Court of Cruel Fae series by Hailey Gonzales. And I can tell you that this book sucks you in and doesn’t want to let you go again.
If you are a lover of big world building stories than this book might be not your cup of tea. There is world building don’t get me wrong, and the word building is really good, but it’s not as big as some epic fantasy books. But if you like a fast paced story with impeccable character building and development then this book will definitely find a way to your heart.
Xyla the FMC has everything I desire in a FMC. She is strong headed, sassy and has the ability to adapt quickly to the carts that fate forces upon her. Elijah the MMC is written so good and the relationship between the main characters left me wanting more and made me read this in one session!!
The cliffhanger in this book hit me hard, really hard and I really can’t wait for book 2, but I have to say if Bear doesn’t return I will be very sad and disappointed.
Tropes:
- (Royal) Fae
- Fated mates
- Enemies to lovers
- Forbidden romance
- Elemental Magic
- Morally gray MMC
“I’m not a nice person, but for you, I want to be”
Bound to the Fae is the first installment of the Court of Cruel Fae series by Hailey Gonzales. And I can tell you that this book sucks you in and doesn’t want to let you go again.
If you are a lover of big world building stories than this book might be not your cup of tea. There is world building don’t get me wrong, and the word building is really good, but it’s not as big as some epic fantasy books. But if you like a fast paced story with impeccable character building and development then this book will definitely find a way to your heart.
Xyla the FMC has everything I desire in a FMC. She is strong headed, sassy and has the ability to adapt quickly to the carts that fate forces upon her. Elijah the MMC is written so good and the relationship between the main characters left me wanting more and made me read this in one session!!
The cliffhanger in this book hit me hard, really hard and I really can’t wait for book 2, but I have to say if Bear doesn’t return I will be very sad and disappointed.
Tropes:
- (Royal) Fae
- Fated mates
- Enemies to lovers
- Forbidden romance
- Elemental Magic
- Morally gray MMC
July 3, 2024
I read this book in one sitting! I love the fated mates trope and this did not disappoint. Slow burn is just a cherry on top.
Xyla ends up in the land of Faerie with her grandmother, the Queen of the Day Court. After growing up as human for 19 years, she finds out she is a fae. She is unable to return to Earth due to a deal her grandmother made with Xyla's mom. We learn the history between the Day Court and the Night Court and their centuries of battles to gain more land and power. Xyla is doing her best to find ways to get back to Earth while also trying to grow her new powers. Throughout her journey, she learns about her mother, becomes friends with Mari and meets the mysterious Night Court fae. There are some slight twists and turns, which leads us to the cliffhanger at the end!
Cannot wait for the second and third book to see the rest of Xyla's journey!
Xyla ends up in the land of Faerie with her grandmother, the Queen of the Day Court. After growing up as human for 19 years, she finds out she is a fae. She is unable to return to Earth due to a deal her grandmother made with Xyla's mom. We learn the history between the Day Court and the Night Court and their centuries of battles to gain more land and power. Xyla is doing her best to find ways to get back to Earth while also trying to grow her new powers. Throughout her journey, she learns about her mother, becomes friends with Mari and meets the mysterious Night Court fae. There are some slight twists and turns, which leads us to the cliffhanger at the end!
Cannot wait for the second and third book to see the rest of Xyla's journey!
June 30, 2024
'I would. I'd follow you anywhere if I had the choice.'
I actually loved this, I didn't expect to when I started and I was a bit disheartened, but I am SO glad I pushed through - this was epic.
This was fast and just awesome, not much in the world building but I don't think it was necessary with how fast paced this was and it honestly moved with speed!
The relationships between our FMC - Xyla, Mari and Eli - our MMC were brilliant, the different dynamics and how these relationships grew was perfect.
Also - uh hello - that cliffhanger!!!! HOW can you end this book like that!!!!
Come on book number 2....
✨️ Royal Fae
✨️ Fast Burn
✨️ Shadow Powers
✨️ Fated Ones
✨️ Slight spice 🌶
✨️ Chosen One
I actually loved this, I didn't expect to when I started and I was a bit disheartened, but I am SO glad I pushed through - this was epic.
This was fast and just awesome, not much in the world building but I don't think it was necessary with how fast paced this was and it honestly moved with speed!
The relationships between our FMC - Xyla, Mari and Eli - our MMC were brilliant, the different dynamics and how these relationships grew was perfect.
Also - uh hello - that cliffhanger!!!! HOW can you end this book like that!!!!
Come on book number 2....
✨️ Royal Fae
✨️ Fast Burn
✨️ Shadow Powers
✨️ Fated Ones
✨️ Slight spice 🌶
✨️ Chosen One
August 8, 2024
*** Spoiler free review ***
Tropes include:
* Royal fae
* Fated mates
* Enemies to lovers
* Forbidden romance
* Elemental magic
* Morally grey MMC
* Strong/Sassy FMC
* Touch her and ☠️
* Mysterious Shadow Daddy ;)
* Slow burn(ish)
* Mild spice
I took a good while to really get into this book because Xyla has the mindset of a teenager, but once I did... my goodness!
Esmeralda is an awful wretch! I hated every second that I was forced to read about her which I am sure is what the author intended for that character. She is truly awful, haha.
The relationship, once it finally blossoms, between Elijah our MMC and our FMC Xyla is to die for!
I can't wait to see what happens in the next book!
Y'all be ready for a WICKED cliff hanger ending!!
Tropes include:
* Royal fae
* Fated mates
* Enemies to lovers
* Forbidden romance
* Elemental magic
* Morally grey MMC
* Strong/Sassy FMC
* Touch her and ☠️
* Mysterious Shadow Daddy ;)
* Slow burn(ish)
* Mild spice
I took a good while to really get into this book because Xyla has the mindset of a teenager, but once I did... my goodness!
Esmeralda is an awful wretch! I hated every second that I was forced to read about her which I am sure is what the author intended for that character. She is truly awful, haha.
The relationship, once it finally blossoms, between Elijah our MMC and our FMC Xyla is to die for!
I can't wait to see what happens in the next book!
Y'all be ready for a WICKED cliff hanger ending!!
June 20, 2024
This story was a fun read. It had 4th wing vibes mixed slightly with acotar vibes.
I will say the one thing that I could do without was the FMCs consistent rhetoric of not wanting to be where she was and then the constant taking responsibility for other peoples actions. However- she’s a 19 year old fae raised human and was inadvertently thrust into the fae realm with no warning. I get it. Her inner monologue makes sense. I wish we had more time building the tension with the mmc but overall I enjoyed the story.
THAT CLIFFHANGER THOUGH! like damn. I will definitely read book two bc I believe our fmc has so much potential to grow into the badass we all know she is. I’d give it one 🌶️ for spice.
Anyway. Go read it. It’s fun and has lots of action and banter.
I will say the one thing that I could do without was the FMCs consistent rhetoric of not wanting to be where she was and then the constant taking responsibility for other peoples actions. However- she’s a 19 year old fae raised human and was inadvertently thrust into the fae realm with no warning. I get it. Her inner monologue makes sense. I wish we had more time building the tension with the mmc but overall I enjoyed the story.
THAT CLIFFHANGER THOUGH! like damn. I will definitely read book two bc I believe our fmc has so much potential to grow into the badass we all know she is. I’d give it one 🌶️ for spice.
Anyway. Go read it. It’s fun and has lots of action and banter.
June 23, 2024
I went into this book fairly blind. I was very surprised. I struggled a bit in the beginning but then it picked up!
Fated mates. Royal fae. A hybrid with dangerous powers.
The FMC is sassy and stronger than she thinks. Born of two feuding courts and with powers rumored to bring about a new era for the fae realm. The MMC is a Night Court fae lurking in the shadows. He’s dangerous. He’s powerful. It’s a forbidden romance with enemies to lovers. The ending leaves you wanting the next book like yesterday!
Tropes include:
- Royal fae
- Enemies to lovers
- Forbidden romance
- Elemental magic
- Romeo and Juliet vibes
Fated mates. Royal fae. A hybrid with dangerous powers.
The FMC is sassy and stronger than she thinks. Born of two feuding courts and with powers rumored to bring about a new era for the fae realm. The MMC is a Night Court fae lurking in the shadows. He’s dangerous. He’s powerful. It’s a forbidden romance with enemies to lovers. The ending leaves you wanting the next book like yesterday!
Tropes include:
- Royal fae
- Enemies to lovers
- Forbidden romance
- Elemental magic
- Romeo and Juliet vibes
June 23, 2024
Xyla and her mum are always on the move, so Xyla's only friend is her dog Bear. When Bear goes missing, Xyla follows his barks to the forest, despite her mum's many warnings against it.
She ends up in a different world, where magic is real and she's the heir to the Day Court Throne. The kingdom is not a happy place though, the book follows her adventure trying to navigate a different world with different rules, while trying to figure out where she fits in the middle of all that mess.
It ends on a cliffhanger, and I'm curious to know what happens to Xyla and her friends on book two of this series.
She ends up in a different world, where magic is real and she's the heir to the Day Court Throne. The kingdom is not a happy place though, the book follows her adventure trying to navigate a different world with different rules, while trying to figure out where she fits in the middle of all that mess.
It ends on a cliffhanger, and I'm curious to know what happens to Xyla and her friends on book two of this series.
February 2, 2025
Novel has a good storyline. I gave it 3 stars for a lot of improper word choices such as violation instead of volition, floor instead of ground, double negatives, etc. I also noticed that clothing options weren’t mentioned a lot here. It’s different escaping from someone in a dress compared to while in fighting leathers. I have no clue what Xyla was wearing when these different things happened. Don’t even know what she was wearing when she was in the dungeon, did she get dirty? Who knows. Was she cold? Lots of potential here for more imagery. I am invested in the characters and looking forward to reading the 2nd installment.
June 13, 2024
Still getting over your Fourth Wing/Iron Flame hangover? This is the book for you.
Shadow daddy? Yes.
Enemies to lovers? Yes.
Cute nickname just for her? Yes.
But it ALSO has a main character who’s already a badass, loves her dog, and has to have princess lessons.
I’m literally so obsessed with this book and it’s not even out yet. I could not put it down- the only reason it has different days for start and finished is because it was after midnight!
Disclaimer: I received this book early in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts are my own.
Shadow daddy? Yes.
Enemies to lovers? Yes.
Cute nickname just for her? Yes.
But it ALSO has a main character who’s already a badass, loves her dog, and has to have princess lessons.
I’m literally so obsessed with this book and it’s not even out yet. I could not put it down- the only reason it has different days for start and finished is because it was after midnight!
Disclaimer: I received this book early in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts are my own.
June 15, 2024
Well that was a ride! What started as a slow build really caught fire and took off about midway through the book. Xyla (awesome name choice for our FMC) is a headstrong FMC who gets her world flipped on its head. the world building was well done, plot didn’t have many holes I could point out, chemistry between the FMC/MMC is well written.
Slow burn? ✅
Enemies to lovers? ✅
Fated ones? ✅❓
Shadow daddy? ✅✅✅✅
Princess Diaries but Fae with war? ✅
Cliffhanger? ‼️‼️‼️‼️
Can’t wait for book 2!!
✨I was graciously gifted a ARC of this book for an honest review. All opinions are my own. ✨
Slow burn? ✅
Enemies to lovers? ✅
Fated ones? ✅❓
Shadow daddy? ✅✅✅✅
Princess Diaries but Fae with war? ✅
Cliffhanger? ‼️‼️‼️‼️
Can’t wait for book 2!!
✨I was graciously gifted a ARC of this book for an honest review. All opinions are my own. ✨
June 16, 2024
I couldn’t put the one down! I read it in one sitting.
Xyla and her mother live a kind of nomadic life with their dog Bear. They are always moving across the country, and her mother warns her to never go into the forest. Xyla finds herself thrown into Day Court in Faerie from Earth, and has to adapt quickly to a fate forced upon her.
Elijah is a prince from Night Court, Day Courts sworn enemy. But he can’t stay away from Xyla. Fiercely protective, and helps her learn the way of the magic in Faerie.
Xyla and her mother live a kind of nomadic life with their dog Bear. They are always moving across the country, and her mother warns her to never go into the forest. Xyla finds herself thrown into Day Court in Faerie from Earth, and has to adapt quickly to a fate forced upon her.
Elijah is a prince from Night Court, Day Courts sworn enemy. But he can’t stay away from Xyla. Fiercely protective, and helps her learn the way of the magic in Faerie.
June 19, 2024
I cannot wait for the second book to come out. This is a short book but lots packed into it. It’s never boring and has you hooked the entire time. There is world building and education of Faerie and its two courts, slow burn romance, a nice spicy scene, and so much more. Xyla is a tad bit too in her head for me BUT I can already see her slowly coming into her own and into her power. I am excited to see her kick ass in the rest of the triology. My only question….Is Bear ok and will we see him again? As an extreme animal lover I hope we see him again and he gets a happily ever after.
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