What is the price of freedom? Sybil Vandeleur, the last known unicorn shifter, is free from the queen's grasp, but trapped under the mountain of Aldervora, searching for the lost library and white witches in a desperate attempt to save her kind. Aramis, Prince of Shadowvale, finds himself powerless and without a throne after making a bargain to rescue her with the rebels who he’s spent his whole life hunting down. Will love and determination be enough to overcome the obstacles that stand in their way? Or will they be torn apart, destined to be enemies forever?From author Fleur DeVillainy, comes a captivating, magical book that blends romance and adventure into a tantalizing read.
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If you are a fan of fantasy romance stories with fairytale vibes and plot twists that will keep you guessing, then you definitely do not want to miss this incredible adventure. Filled with mythical creatures, endearing side companions, a morally grey yet lovable cinnamon roll MMC, and the concept of fated mates, this story has it all.
Fleur DeVillainy is an American fantasy author. In the realm of imagination, where love and enchantment intertwine, she crafts tales of extraordinary adventure interwoven with romance, internal growth and found family. By day, she brings healing to little hearts as a pediatric nurse practitioner. By night, she lets her pen dance across pages, weaving magical worlds and captivating characters. When not weaving tales, she finds solace in baking, sewing, and gardening. Join her on the many whimsical journeys through words and discover the wonders that lie within. Check out her series The Vandeleur Trilogy, her comic series Wolf and I, and her co-written Calpa series today!
If you want to know when Fleur’s next book will come out, please visit her social media and website.
Admittedly, I probably could have used a bit of a refresher before diving into this sequel, but it started coming back to me as I remembered our girl is a UNICORN! Our main couple spend some time apart in this book as they’re both trapped in different places but they discover some (wild) things they need to and then eventually reunite. She wonders if what she feels for him is real or because of the bond, but once she’s reunited with Amaris, she knows she doesn’t want to be without him; and he’s already accepted her. So then it gets spicy 🌶️ And the end has some pretty twisty things!! I really enjoyed the scene with the dragon in the third act as well. Thank you R&R Book Tours for having me on the tour for this series!!
Thrilling!! This sequel picks up where the first book left off and kept up on the action the whole way through! It does leave off in an interesting kind of cliffhanger but thankfully not a huge crazy one! lol
I absolutely loved the characters' growth in this one especially the Prince’s! I enjoyed his struggles and growth throughout the story! I also love the relationship as well how that evolved and there was a steamy scene or two in there for those wondering.
There were a lot of interesting twists and turns throughout and don’t disappoint. And I’m eagerly awaiting the next book!
Some awesome tropes to look forward to are: magical library, action-packed, high stakes, deadly quests, redemption arc, second chances, touch him/her and xx, fated mates, ‘who did this to you’, loyal best friends, and so much more!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 Secrets of Thorns by Fleur DeVilliany The Vandeleur Trilogy: Book 2
What an incredible sequel in The Vandeleur Trilogy! This story picks up right where book 1 left off, thank the heavens! Full of action packed adventure, Lemon (my precious!), unlikely allies, redemption, dragons, and a sassy sentient library! 😍 This dual POV allows us into the mind of both main characters and gives us a front row seat to their charged dynamic. There is strong character growth throughout and I'm here for it! Also, I love a good redemption story, and we get that with multiple characters!
I also need to mention Nero. I love him! He is such a fantastic character, good to the core and hilarious! We get introduced to a new character, Marcelene, fiesty, ferocious, and fabulous! I need more of her!
The second book in Fleur DeVillainy’s Vandeleur Trilogy, Secrets of Thorns, picks up where Sky of Thorns left us.
We meet many more shifters, witches and fae. Sybil and Aramis both have to learn and grow while figuring out how to save everyone.
I enjoyed this book just as much as the first one. I love how Sybil and Aramis’ relationship develops and how they grow on their own as well. I love the new characters we meet, the new places we go and all the new mysteries. Lemon and Nero are still my favourite.
As expected the book ended with a cliffhanger… all I’ll say is I did not expect that…
I enjoyed this book and can’t wait for the third book.
(I do want to mention that there are some spelling issues here and there that should probably have been fixed during editing, I choose to overlook that as I really love the story.)
This is an action packed adventure with unrequited love, mysterious creatures, unlikely allies, and the aftermath of past transgressions. We are brought to the brink of catastrophe again and again only to be pulled back to safety. The twists and turns the characters have to navigate will keep you spinning, and you will need more than one box of tissues for the ending (Nero!!!! 😭).
2/🌶️: Fleur keeps book two as a slow burn. 5/⭐️ While trigger warnings are spoilers to me, something’s are not for everyone.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
After being separated while looking for the mythical and magical Library of Harpalyke, Sybil and Aramis continue on their individual journeys to defeat Queen Tricella. Deep in the mountain, Sybil learns to use her magic and discovers secrets of the past that answer some questions, but create even more. Upon finding the rebel camps, Aramis is held as a prisoner, forced to prove his worth and loyalty to the people he had been brainwashed to hate from childhood. If they ever reunite, will she accept their mating bond, or are the actions of his past, and the reality of the impending war, enough to keep them apart forever?
Just like with book one, I was a huge fan of Fleur’s writing and world. Aramis is still the perfect MMC - broody, dedicated to his purpose (and his mate) and very much worthy. Sybil is fantastic and doesn’t suffer from helplessness - in book 2, her power grows stronger and she learns more about who she is and what she is capable of. The continued slow burn absolutely killed me and I am chomping at the bit for book 3.
"The proof that light will always find a way to shine, even when the night is the darkest."
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🌶🌶🌶
Author: Fleur DeVillainy Publisher: Independently Published Series: The Vandeleur Trilogy Release Date: 19th August 2024
Perfect if you love: - Fated Mates - Unicorn Shifter FMC - One Tent - Slow Burn to Steamy - Magical Sentient Library - Epic Adventure - Found Family - Morally Grey Elemental MMC - Ancient Dragon
This was an absolutely fabulous continuation of the series. From start to finish, this book was absolutely action-packed. As a series, this very much fulfils the childhood excitement still held within me regarding unicorns but ups this very much into a fantasy romance tale.
We pick up in this story exactly where we left off in book one, wasting absolutely no time whatsoever in getting back to the story. With Sybil and Aramis separated, we get this amazing look into them as individual characters and the development they go through. Both our main characters grow so much throughout this book, Sybil very much begins to come into her own and outshines the more timid character she has at the beginning of the series. Aramis feels like he's had the biggest character shift, having now seen the truth for what it is we read as he struggles to come to terms with everything he has done and who he wants to become. This felt pivotal for this story and was carefully woven to become an integral part that worked beautifully. I loved getting to meet new characters and explore ones we have already met previously, and for them to get a little bit more of the limelight.
The relationship development between Sybil and Aramis felt natural given their situation and history. Again, this felt purposeful to the plot, and both made my heart ache as well as being heartwarming. The spice level was spot on, and you can feel the progression here also.
In terms of plot, the book radiated purpose. We knew where we were going and what the aim was, and that drove the story and pace well. There were aspects that felt needed, and there were aspects that were shocking, and it all worked together very well. I felt the story followed the thread, and we didn't wonder aimlessly for the sake of it, and this made for a gripping read. From a worldbuilidng perspective, this was sublime. I particularly enjoyed the sentient library, who knew a library could have some more sass shown through the little gestures. I'm glad this environment was explored to its full potential as it was definitely one of my favourite aspects.
That ending blew me away, and I can't wait for the next book in the series. I'm both ready and not ready all at the same time.
Fleur DeVillainy’s Secrets of Thorns picks up right where Sky of Thorns left us hanging, and wow, does it deliver. Sybil Vandeleur, the last unicorn shifter and healer, and Aramis Adrostos, the Elemental crown prince of Shadowvale, are back and more determined than ever to reunite and save their world from the clutches of the evil queen Tricella.
I’m totally here for Sybil and Aramis’s character growth. They’re both such green flags—willing to do whatever it takes to protect their kingdom, even if it means facing some pretty intense challenges on their own. Their time apart only made them stronger, and when they finally come together again, the reunion is everything: sweet, steamy, and so worth the slow burn.
The book gave me all the feels, especially with some unexpected twists. Plus, it left me on a cliffhanger that I’m still not over.A few of my fave moments? The secret library, Sybil’s furry companion LEMON (so cute!), and the hilarious banter between Aramis and his BFF Nero. And let’s not forget the newfound besties—because who doesn’t love seeing friendships bloom in the middle of all the chaos?
This is the second book in the Vandeleur series, so if you haven’t started, what are you waiting for? Just make sure to check the trigger warnings before diving in.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I’m finally feeling better and I finished this beauty today! WOW! There is absolutely no second book syndrome happening here folks!
This was non-stop fantasy adventure, with hidden encampments, magical libraries, 🦄unicorn and other shifters, elemental fae, and a found family who share a common goal. I loved all the new and different characters we’ve been introduced to! All strong and interesting characters in their own right. My favourite character continues to be Nero, his accent from the audiobook of Sky Of Thorns is permanently stuck in my head🤍
There were many emotional moments throughout, as Aramis and Sybil both come to terms with a lot of new information. I appreciate that it’s told in Dual POV so we can see their internal struggles both independently and in relation to one another.
I can’t wait for book 3, to see how everything wraps up! Fingers crossed i’ll have the chance to reread this one on audio before Succession Of Thorns comes out🤞🏼
Thank you to @fleurdevillainy for providing me a copy to read and review, and for writing this fabulous series!
I received a copy of this book from the author and am honored to share this completely honest review!
Tropes:
Elemental Magic Shifters, the FMC is a Unicorn Shifter! Magical Library Fated Mates Witches Dragon Dual POV Fun Banter
Secrets of Thorns is the 2nd book in The Vandeleur Trilogy. It continues following the journey of Sybil, our unicorn shifter FMC, and Aramis our wind wielding MMC. I loved the Dual POV and getting each of their perspectives throughout the story.
The pace was fairly quick and I found it to be a pretty easy read. It's a good fantasy romance with a couple of spicy scenes in the second half of the book.
While I did enjoy reading this book and didn't struggle to finish it, it wasn't my favorite. That's solely based on my personal preferences and I hope that doesn't discourage anyone from giving it a read! In my opinion, 3 stars isn't a bad rating, it's neutral leaning towards positive.
If you enjoy stories featuring shifters, magical libraries, adventure, and fated mates, I think you would enjoy this book! Give it a try!
I came back for book 2 and Ms. Fleur DeVillainy delivered another magically entertaining read! I got lost in this story. It’s told in dual pov and follows the FMC, Sybil and the MMC, Aramis. The story picks up where book 1 ends, so yes go read Sky of Thorns first. Sybil and Aramis have escaped the queen and are in search of a magical library. I know right, insert squeal!
Of course obstacles are thrown in their way and they get separated. Their journeys are filled with adventure, determination, and growth. I also enjoyed the endearing secondary characters, Nero was a delight. Shoutout to Lemon as well. The storyline is entertaining with great writing, strong character development, magical creatures, cute furry companions, and a unicorn shifter FMC. Of course you should read this! Also, shoutout for another beautiful cover!🥰
I love books with a "big" group of people willing to help the MCs who would gladly give up their lives for any of the people traveling with them. The way this book makes you care for every character and enjoy the growth and changes you see in them. chef's kiss.
This book is a wonderful continuation in the series. Not only does it keep you guessing and maybe make you cry. The twist at the end is the one readers know but "hearing" it on the page. Oomph. Now to wait until book three in the trilogy. I do not know how this story can end in just one more book but I am excited to find out.
Book 2 of this trilogy continues with dual POV featuring Sybil and Aramis. We meet new characters including shifters, fae & witches in an action packed adventure.
The slow burn romance takes a back seat to the action & adventure while the world building, magic & character development unfold. Prepare yourself for an emotional roller coaster — magical libraries, encampments, found family, furry companions, and TONS of obstacles along the way.
I especially loved Nero & Lemon! There are so many wonderful supporting characters in this series. It’s a good mix of fantasy elements from Harry Potter, Eragon, & The Last Unicorn.
This is the second book in a series and it picks up right after the first book. Sybil and Aramis are separated with no choice but to move on with their plans apart. We got to see some other POV’s in the book which I think will help with the 3rd book. Aramis ends up proving his worth to himself and the people he tormented for years. Sybil leanrs more about who she is and what she is capable of. This book ends on a cliffhanger so i can’t wait for the third book. we got to see more of my favorite characters Lemon and Nero and make some new friends along the way. Great second book and dying for the third now 😊
Secrets of Thorns is book 2 in the Vandeleur Trilogy by Fleur DeVillainy.
Book 2 starts where book 1 finishes and we follow Sybil’s journey to find the White Witches and the lost library. This is just the start of Sybil’s adventure. Aramis ends up on his own journey to discover the man he wants to become while proving himself to those around him.
The growing dynamic between the two main characters is captivating and I found myself really routing for them both. With this book being duel POV, we get to learn a lot more about Aramis as a person.
I wouldn’t be able to write this review without mentioning Nero. Although a side character, Nero had me feeling all kinds of things. His incredible personality and humour had me laughing out loud so hard as well as crying my heart out when things didn’t go so well. He is an absolute diamond of a character and I cannot wait to see what craziness he will get up to in book 3.
I have loved this story and I’m sure you will too 💕
Such an amazing story! Great pacing and lots of action. I love how the lore of the world is interwoven and the character are just so relatable. I adore all of this authors work and can’t wait for more!
Such a thrilling sequel! It picks right off rom where you are left and just keeps going till you have more questions! Sybil is so much stronger in this book, once she finds out more about her and who she is, nothing will stop her to help her kingdom and her mate
Book 2 starts, thankfully, immediately where book 1 stops. Your lead through a journey with new characters and stronger bonds but that ending oooo the torture!
Better than the first! This book had it all and then some, I really enjoyed the story. It has everything and I couldn’t put it down. Love it all, cant wait till the next one
Disfrute la lectura, se me hizo un libro entretenido y rápido de leer, pero había algunas cosas que no entendía y no se si es porque la historia se relaciona con la historia del libro uno
Luego, ¿es un pony? mi confusión no fue eso, fue que nunca supe si eran she/he/them jajajaja, pero me gusto
Picking up where the first left off. Aramis and Nero try to find a way to save Sybil in the cave. The action continues throughout the whole book as the party finds other friends and reunites to find a way to defeat Queen Tricella and learning secrets along the way. I loved the connection that many of the characters have and the pull between Aramis and Sybil even though they started as enemies. It does end in a cliffhanger and I cannot wait for the next one.
This fun romantasy adventure picks up right where book 2 ended.
I love that this book had a strong found family. Who are setting off together to save their kingdom from the evil queen. I felt all the emotions reading this book and can’t wait for the final book… Especially with that cliffhanger! If you liked book 1 you will not be disappointed in book 2. 🦄
The second installment of The Vandeleur Trilogy picks up right where the first left off, and it's a thrilling continuation. Sybil's quest to find the White Witches for guidance is captivating, while Aramis and Nero embark on their own journeys. Aramis's character development is particularly impressive as he discovers who he truly wants to be, separated from Sybil. Nero remains as fantastic as ever, even gaining a new friend. Aries also shines as a strong secondary character. The dual POV adds depth to the storytelling. I can’t wait for the final book in the series!
Book one ended on a terrible cliffhanger and this book picked right back up. Love Sybil and our shadow prince. Cannot wait for the next book. Fabulous!!!
I love series where book two are better than book one (ACOTAR I’m looking at you)
If you love that classic feel of nostalgic movies like the last unicorn, Narnia and Disney Princess originals but want a spicy adult book then I highly recommend this series.
Amazing! Continuing on from the events at the end of book 1, Sybil and Aramis were separated, both seeking out different groups for assistance. The journey back to one another wasn't quick or easy, coming up against many hurdles.
I enjoyed learning more about the characters (both new & old), following along on their adventure and seeing more of the world they live in. It's so easy to get caught up in this story. I just need more! Looking forward to part 3!
Book two was the perfect continuation of the plot. We get more spice, more new characters to love and hate and more adventures. So many things happened Im still a little tense from all the action. Who can you trust. A delightful tense sequel and I am so excited for what comes next. Sign me up. Please.
This series is becoming one of my favorites top 10 for sure! The growth of the characters, the danger and the spice make this a great story. I am so excited to see where Sybil and Aramis’s story go next.
Secrets of Thorns continues the story of Sybil Vandeleur, the last unicorn shifter, who having escaped the grasp of Queen Tricella and captivity in the Kingdom of Shadowvale, finds herself trapped under the mountain of Aldervora. She is on a quest to find the lost library and white witches to save her kind, and to help create a better world where shifters and elementals can live at peace.
Meanwhile, whilst woefully separated from Sybil, Aramis, the Prince of Shadowvale, loses his powers after making a deal to rescue Sybil, in order to prove his worth and to atone for the role he has played in Tricella's campaign of destruction over the past century.
As both Sybil and Aramis embark on their separate but intertwined journeys, they face challenges that test their love and determination.
Secrets of Thorns once again puts adventure and action at the centre stage, with a gorgeous slow burn romance.
With fantastic creatures, new characters, stronger known and loved ones and beautiful friendships and loyalties, this book sets the stage for further developments in the story of Sybil and Aramis's quest to save Kallistar and secure their vision of a future free from the injustice, horror and persecution that's been driving Tricella's reign of fear.
💭The Vandeleur Trilogy combines a few of my favourite tropes and elements that I look for in a good fantasy book: strong, multi-dimensional and not immediately 'all good' or 'all bad' characters; adventure, loyalty, friendship, righteousness and a healthy sprinkle of romance, particularly satisfying when the burn is slow and the resolution both sweet and fiery.
To be completely honest, I always approach books with a young FMC with caution. Due to the fact that I'm not the target demographic for those stories I often feel a bit too grown up to be able to fully immerse myself in the plot without a certain degree of cynicism and annoyance at the silly things that young FMCs do- or even worse, at their otherworldly perfection, which does little to help me feel adequate in my decades of adulting experience. Luckily, Sybil is a likeable, sweet and clever heroine whom even older readers can easily find endearing. I was genuinely rooting for her from book 1 and my feelings absolutely continued throughout this second installment.
Aramis's character gets some serious development and he is quite rightly being made to work hard for his redemption arc. I really love the dual PoV of this story and I felt that this perfectly supports character development.
Nero is still one of my favourite supporting characters of all time, and as a big lover of bittersweet plot lines, I found his role in this book a perfect balance of character and plot sustenance that did not dip into a vapid cliché of premature happily ever after.
As is often the case with second books in a trilogy, this installment felt at times like somewhat of a gateway to the conclusion, but there is so much story, world building and action to make this is a very snappy and pleasant read.
The only slight thing that fussed me was the not- always consistent pace of the two parallel timelines, particularly at the point when Sybil was doing her thing in the library, while Aramis was detained. Both sections felt a bit 'blink and you'll miss it' and it would have been great to really feel the growth and the passing of time, which lacked the gravity I felt those passages deserved.
On a personal note, I am delighted to be part of Fleur's Street Team as she is one of the sweetest authors you'll ever meet and this is a series I love to shout about, really worth your time if you are a reader of fantasy. If you haven't yet picked up this series I can't recommend it enough, as I am absolutely buzzing with anticipation for its ending. I can feel that this is not going to be a cosy or predictable resolution, but in all likelihood something that will stay with me for a while and I cannot wait to see where it will take us. Thanks again to Fleur for allowing me to immerse myself in this fab series and for allowing me to voice my honest opinion on this unique read.