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The Broken Court
Tucked away in the Eastern Shore, Liserli Vaelus has landed her dream job in the Educational Halls. It is her sanctuary, and after the attack on the royal family only weeks ago, safe is best.
When she reunites with one of the faerie princes, Liserli returns to Shyal to fight against their new enemy—Deimos Northstar, a mysterious faerie who claims to be from another world. Like the dagger that once hung in her home, Liserli wants to avoid Deimos at all costs. But when he offers to revive those recently lost, desperation creeps in.
Just as a new romance sparks for her, the threat on her life becomes overwhelming. The thin veil between life and death calls into question everything she's ever known—and even the origins of her world.
This thrilling sequel to The Faerie Throne is a dark tale that will have you obsessed to the very end.
When she reunites with one of the faerie princes, Liserli returns to Shyal to fight against their new enemy—Deimos Northstar, a mysterious faerie who claims to be from another world. Like the dagger that once hung in her home, Liserli wants to avoid Deimos at all costs. But when he offers to revive those recently lost, desperation creeps in.
Just as a new romance sparks for her, the threat on her life becomes overwhelming. The thin veil between life and death calls into question everything she's ever known—and even the origins of her world.
This thrilling sequel to The Faerie Throne is a dark tale that will have you obsessed to the very end.
354 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 9, 2024
About the author
Belle Manuel
12 books249 followersRaised in the Deep South, Manuel is an author who revels in creating new worlds. As a general book addict and wordsmith, Manuel often finds herself lost in daydreams and plot trees. She's also an editor for other fantasy writers, so her whole world is books, books, books!
The Firenian universe now spans six books—the Twisted Fates trilogy, completed in 2022, and the ongoing Soul Stealer Saga.
Flames Like Darkness is a new series co-authored with the incomparable Angelina J. Steffort. The third and final installment is expected late 2025.
The Broken Court, the second book in the Shyal Chronicles trilogy, was released in late 2024 to eager readers.
The Firenian universe now spans six books—the Twisted Fates trilogy, completed in 2022, and the ongoing Soul Stealer Saga.
Flames Like Darkness is a new series co-authored with the incomparable Angelina J. Steffort. The third and final installment is expected late 2025.
The Broken Court, the second book in the Shyal Chronicles trilogy, was released in late 2024 to eager readers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
December 14, 2024
The sequel to the Faerie Throne is a thrilling political faerie romance.
In this part of the story, we see Liserli shed her naive worldview when it comes to fairy politics after the rough awakening she had at the end of book 1. She becomes more outspoken and leans more into following her heart. It was good to see her take the opinions of the people she loves into consideration, but ultimately making her own decisions. We also get to see a softer side of Cadoc, which I didn't expect and was a great redemption after his prior shenanigans. The political intrigues kept me on my toes, and I'm constantly side eyeing everyone. To be honest, everyone seems to have an agenda, and here's Liserli just wanting to study, see the world, and fall in love 😂
In all seriousness; in the Shyal series, the author has done a great job in balancing the serious political ongoings in the story with a lighter romance subplot. I'm looking forward to where the next book will take us.
In this part of the story, we see Liserli shed her naive worldview when it comes to fairy politics after the rough awakening she had at the end of book 1. She becomes more outspoken and leans more into following her heart. It was good to see her take the opinions of the people she loves into consideration, but ultimately making her own decisions. We also get to see a softer side of Cadoc, which I didn't expect and was a great redemption after his prior shenanigans. The political intrigues kept me on my toes, and I'm constantly side eyeing everyone. To be honest, everyone seems to have an agenda, and here's Liserli just wanting to study, see the world, and fall in love 😂
In all seriousness; in the Shyal series, the author has done a great job in balancing the serious political ongoings in the story with a lighter romance subplot. I'm looking forward to where the next book will take us.
December 6, 2024
First & foremost, thank you SOOO much Belle Manuel for an ARC of The Broken Court!!!! 🫶🏻
🥰🥰🥰 that ending healed me!!!!!! both CH40 & After🥰🥰🥰 but anywho Deimos & his powers/world makes me envision ‘The Further’ from insidious (aka horrifying!!!) but Lise is so unbelievably strong that you can’t help but love her for it bc if I went thru HALF of what she endured???? I’d be a corpse!!!! omg so much happened and I loved it all!!!!!!! everything with Bard???? LOVE. Cad’s emotional growth, especially with Lise????? LOVE. Drystan still being the best dad???? LOVE. AND THOSE NEW DETAILS IN THE ‘After’?????? EXCITED!!!!!!!
🥰🥰🥰 that ending healed me!!!!!! both CH40 & After🥰🥰🥰 but anywho Deimos & his powers/world makes me envision ‘The Further’ from insidious (aka horrifying!!!) but Lise is so unbelievably strong that you can’t help but love her for it bc if I went thru HALF of what she endured???? I’d be a corpse!!!! omg so much happened and I loved it all!!!!!!! everything with Bard???? LOVE. Cad’s emotional growth, especially with Lise????? LOVE. Drystan still being the best dad???? LOVE. AND THOSE NEW DETAILS IN THE ‘After’?????? EXCITED!!!!!!!
January 3, 2025
The long awaited sequel to The Faerie Throne has FINALLY blessed our kindles, shelves, hearts & minds!
Book 2 starts with a super intriguing introduction from our main girl Liserli’s brother - Ledger.
This is a fantastic follow up to book 1 of the Shyal Chronicles with more addictive tropes with my favourite being Development of magic!
This is such a fantastic refresher for between book 1 & 2 and has plenty going on to keep you turning pages constantly. The last chapter is WELL worth the wait for our semi slow-burn relationship of our MMC & FMC 🥰
I am DYING to read book 3 in this series already and cannot wait for an update on Liserli & Candoc.
Book 2 starts with a super intriguing introduction from our main girl Liserli’s brother - Ledger.
This is a fantastic follow up to book 1 of the Shyal Chronicles with more addictive tropes with my favourite being Development of magic!
This is such a fantastic refresher for between book 1 & 2 and has plenty going on to keep you turning pages constantly. The last chapter is WELL worth the wait for our semi slow-burn relationship of our MMC & FMC 🥰
I am DYING to read book 3 in this series already and cannot wait for an update on Liserli & Candoc.
February 13, 2025
Our little Liserli grows up and thinks for herself. I like it. This sequel is all about Liserli coming into her own, although I’m still confused about her Magic. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t. Perhaps it isn’t what she and everyone else believes it is?
Book 2 is all about Liserli and Cadoc. I’m wondering if book 3 will be about Ledger and Amias?
Book 2 is all about Liserli and Cadoc. I’m wondering if book 3 will be about Ledger and Amias?
January 10, 2025
Kinda love this series which I didn’t expect I would. :)
March 16, 2025
Spoilers
Spoilers
There are some editing issues I'm having problems with. Random words highlighted, numbers in odd places with notes attached from what I presume is the editor?, grammatical errors. One of many examples is
"I lifted it from bag neatly, smiling at the sigh [24]of the fabric." Sentences that weren't proofread that completely stop the flow of the story. Normally I wouldn't mind some grammatical errors here and there but it's from beginning to end.
I felt like some issues were resolved to quickly and that our FMC made a lot of bad decisions simply because she could. Specially at the end with the blade. She knew her father wouldn't have approved but convinced herself that the guard she was suspicious of should lead her across town alone to pick up a forsaken blade and return it to a dangerous prisoner by herself??? That's just one of the plot holes that don't make sense in this book.
Her magic is mentioned but not really useful to the story in a way that benefits it, her relationship with her brother is about the same as the last book and his issues with their adoptive father is just obnoxious at this point.
I did love the romance and the friendship and I overall enjoyed the story but I just didn't LOVE it like I did the first book. It felt slow and tedious at times with a pretty lacking climax. I'll read the next book when it's out but it's not something I'm dying to have released.
Spoilers
There are some editing issues I'm having problems with. Random words highlighted, numbers in odd places with notes attached from what I presume is the editor?, grammatical errors. One of many examples is
"I lifted it from bag neatly, smiling at the sigh [24]of the fabric." Sentences that weren't proofread that completely stop the flow of the story. Normally I wouldn't mind some grammatical errors here and there but it's from beginning to end.
I felt like some issues were resolved to quickly and that our FMC made a lot of bad decisions simply because she could. Specially at the end with the blade. She knew her father wouldn't have approved but convinced herself that the guard she was suspicious of should lead her across town alone to pick up a forsaken blade and return it to a dangerous prisoner by herself??? That's just one of the plot holes that don't make sense in this book.
Her magic is mentioned but not really useful to the story in a way that benefits it, her relationship with her brother is about the same as the last book and his issues with their adoptive father is just obnoxious at this point.
I did love the romance and the friendship and I overall enjoyed the story but I just didn't LOVE it like I did the first book. It felt slow and tedious at times with a pretty lacking climax. I'll read the next book when it's out but it's not something I'm dying to have released.
November 19, 2024
This is the second book in the Shyal Chronicles and oh sweet baby Jesus. What an amazing sequel.
"With a big smile, I opened my book and started reading"
We continue this book right when we left it in the first book. Liserli is having some issues with Cadoc but it's okay. Well, not really. But I think this is the first time, in a book, that I read about a character understanding that he went too far and that his words/anger was misplaced. If you know, you know.
I do love a good communication trope.
The plot and the world building were wonderful. We are learning so many things regarding the faerie customs, their beliefs,.. In this world, the faeries have powers and some humans do as well. In both case scenarios, the living being should access their powers before turning 21 years old (Or it simply means that they don't have any). It dwells a little bit more on how humans feel when they access their powers, it's so interesting!
The writing style was so good ! I don't know how some authors can do it for me, but from the first sentence to the last, I was completely obsessed with the storyline. The writing pulled me into this book, and I loved every single word of it.
The relationships were a bit out of nowhere for me, but I don't care. I loved them. To the friendship between Lis and Wrenly to the sibling healing their bond (Lis and Ledger). And the romance ? This was not what I expected, but I am not mad at all. It was better than what my expectations were.
Liserli & Cadoc
"I wanted this - I wanted him. For however long we were meant to burn, I'd feed our little flame."
I loved them so much. The growth in their relationship between "The Faerie Throne" and "The Broken Court" = astonishing and perfect.
Ledger
"Because deep down, beneath the arrogance he tried to don, Ledger Vaelus was a terrified child still."
We don't really know what's up with him in this book, and the direction that this series is currently taking, I have high hopes for a spin-off for Ledger. I am really intrigued by him and I really want to know more, his thoughts, his opinion, ... I could not stand him in the first book but now? He redeemed himself and I just want to know more.
Amias
"You are my spy"
I was a little sad that the friendship between him and Lis was a little bit set aside for the romance, but I understand that it was necessary and Lis always put him first. Not because it was her job to do so but because they are besties. In my mind.
Note :Just to think about what the author is doing or envisioning to do with him and another individual, makes me giggle !!!!!
"With a big smile, I opened my book and started reading"
We continue this book right when we left it in the first book. Liserli is having some issues with Cadoc but it's okay. Well, not really. But I think this is the first time, in a book, that I read about a character understanding that he went too far and that his words/anger was misplaced. If you know, you know.
I do love a good communication trope.
The plot and the world building were wonderful. We are learning so many things regarding the faerie customs, their beliefs,.. In this world, the faeries have powers and some humans do as well. In both case scenarios, the living being should access their powers before turning 21 years old (Or it simply means that they don't have any). It dwells a little bit more on how humans feel when they access their powers, it's so interesting!
The writing style was so good ! I don't know how some authors can do it for me, but from the first sentence to the last, I was completely obsessed with the storyline. The writing pulled me into this book, and I loved every single word of it.
The relationships were a bit out of nowhere for me, but I don't care. I loved them. To the friendship between Lis and Wrenly to the sibling healing their bond (Lis and Ledger). And the romance ? This was not what I expected, but I am not mad at all. It was better than what my expectations were.
Liserli & Cadoc
"I wanted this - I wanted him. For however long we were meant to burn, I'd feed our little flame."
I loved them so much. The growth in their relationship between "The Faerie Throne" and "The Broken Court" = astonishing and perfect.
Ledger
"Because deep down, beneath the arrogance he tried to don, Ledger Vaelus was a terrified child still."
We don't really know what's up with him in this book, and the direction that this series is currently taking, I have high hopes for a spin-off for Ledger. I am really intrigued by him and I really want to know more, his thoughts, his opinion, ... I could not stand him in the first book but now? He redeemed himself and I just want to know more.
Amias
"You are my spy"
I was a little sad that the friendship between him and Lis was a little bit set aside for the romance, but I understand that it was necessary and Lis always put him first. Not because it was her job to do so but because they are besties. In my mind.
Note :Just to think about what the author is doing or envisioning to do with him and another individual, makes me giggle !!!!!
December 24, 2024
The Good: This one really knocked it out of the park for me. I got the character development I always want from books, and I got the romance development I like, and the story felt complete and self-contained in a good way. It obviously tied into book one, but this book doesn't read like I have to keep going back to book one to check everything. It all spills the right way. I love that in books.
The Bad: It's a bit slower. Definitely sequel syndrome a bit here. It had enough good things to balance it out, but it was slow. There was a little smattering of smut, but I do wish there had been more. I want to see Prince Cadoc go wild.
Overall: This book was a good sequel on the level. While slow at times, there was never a moment where I felt like I wanted to put it down. I was always waiting for the big things to happen, and with the way this one was written, it's rather clear that book three is going to be the showdown. I can't wait to see what Prince Cadoc will do now that he is so openly invested in Liserli.
The Bad: It's a bit slower. Definitely sequel syndrome a bit here. It had enough good things to balance it out, but it was slow. There was a little smattering of smut, but I do wish there had been more. I want to see Prince Cadoc go wild.
Overall: This book was a good sequel on the level. While slow at times, there was never a moment where I felt like I wanted to put it down. I was always waiting for the big things to happen, and with the way this one was written, it's rather clear that book three is going to be the showdown. I can't wait to see what Prince Cadoc will do now that he is so openly invested in Liserli.
November 17, 2024
I cannot describe how happy I am to be back in Shyal! Liserli and Ledger have started to repair their relationship, and while Cadoc told her to stay away, she longs to be back at the palace. Of course, she can't stay away for long.
When she's back and bringing Amias out of his despair, she realizes that she has truly missed Cadoc, and he's missed her as well. Finally, they have each other in reach, and things are starting to feel more normal.
Working with Amias, Drystan, and Deimos to try and get Bard back, if that's even possible. But surely, Liserli will be able to right the wrongs, right? Finding her way at the palace, her place with Cadoc, and in Shyal itself becomes her journey this season.
When she's back and bringing Amias out of his despair, she realizes that she has truly missed Cadoc, and he's missed her as well. Finally, they have each other in reach, and things are starting to feel more normal.
Working with Amias, Drystan, and Deimos to try and get Bard back, if that's even possible. But surely, Liserli will be able to right the wrongs, right? Finding her way at the palace, her place with Cadoc, and in Shyal itself becomes her journey this season.
March 18, 2026
There were quite a few grammatical and editing errors in this sequel. Also, some of the conflict was solved far too simply. Ledger, while I understand his hesitation at accepting his faerie father, irritates me. Drystan had raised the 2 of them for 13 years, so I feel some of Ledger's attitude was just evidence of his immaturity.
The growth that both Liserli and Cadoc went through over the course of this book was absolutely incredible. The slow burn of their love was impeccably written.
I also adored the fatherly rage we see from Drystan when his little girl is hurt. The death faerie adores his human children, and it's so blatantly obvious.
And the payment Cadoc gave Liserli to repay his life debt, ugh I cried, it was so romantic.
The growth that both Liserli and Cadoc went through over the course of this book was absolutely incredible. The slow burn of their love was impeccably written.
I also adored the fatherly rage we see from Drystan when his little girl is hurt. The death faerie adores his human children, and it's so blatantly obvious.
And the payment Cadoc gave Liserli to repay his life debt, ugh I cried, it was so romantic.
March 25, 2025
Straight up immersing! As somebody who has been in a reading slump for months now, the fact that I read this is less than two days is kinda amazing. The writing just flows together so beautifully, it’s simply enjoyable to get lost in.
I had to reread The Faerie Throne before I read this, and it helped so much in witnessing the character development- it’s honestly the best part about it. The characters have grown so much, some more than others lol, but they all have this depth about them that just makes them relatable- more real. I hate reading a book where the main characters are just plain boring or just straight up annoying, but the author has made her characters just flourish into very delightful individuals that truly make me feel like I’m in the novel.
The only thing I’m really not fond of is the magic system- I don’t really understand it. It’s almost lacking in complexity, where it’s kinda like “oh this is what it is” but no why or how in sight. I don’t know if there’s plans in a further sequel that touches more on how their magics work, or why the magic balance is the way it is- but I’d like to see more on it. That might just be a preference though.
This review was a bit overdue, but I’m grateful to have received an ARC copy and been able to dive into this astounding book. It was really a pleasure to read it, and I can’t wait to see what’s next.
I had to reread The Faerie Throne before I read this, and it helped so much in witnessing the character development- it’s honestly the best part about it. The characters have grown so much, some more than others lol, but they all have this depth about them that just makes them relatable- more real. I hate reading a book where the main characters are just plain boring or just straight up annoying, but the author has made her characters just flourish into very delightful individuals that truly make me feel like I’m in the novel.
The only thing I’m really not fond of is the magic system- I don’t really understand it. It’s almost lacking in complexity, where it’s kinda like “oh this is what it is” but no why or how in sight. I don’t know if there’s plans in a further sequel that touches more on how their magics work, or why the magic balance is the way it is- but I’d like to see more on it. That might just be a preference though.
This review was a bit overdue, but I’m grateful to have received an ARC copy and been able to dive into this astounding book. It was really a pleasure to read it, and I can’t wait to see what’s next.
December 15, 2024
"For however long we were meant to burn, I'd feed our little flame."
Oh Shyal, how I missed you. Cadoc must have heard me in my review of book one, The Faerie Throne, because he definitely did the thing! Loved the growth of the characters after the events of book one. The slow, suspenseful build of the conflict here was done well. It really allowed all that time to progress characters and relationships. Which just made me swooning more over this world. I can not wait for the next installment!
Oh Shyal, how I missed you. Cadoc must have heard me in my review of book one, The Faerie Throne, because he definitely did the thing! Loved the growth of the characters after the events of book one. The slow, suspenseful build of the conflict here was done well. It really allowed all that time to progress characters and relationships. Which just made me swooning more over this world. I can not wait for the next installment!
March 6, 2025
4 ⭐️
Better than the first! I think the author found her groove with the characters and the world and it flowed a little better. Cadoc grew on me, but I’m still hoping maybe there’s a plot twist with another MMC.
My only complaint is that the book didn’t end on a cliffhanger. It was too neat. I want something that makes me anxiously waiting for the next book!! Regardless, I’ll be excited to read number 3 whenever it comes out!
Better than the first! I think the author found her groove with the characters and the world and it flowed a little better. Cadoc grew on me, but I’m still hoping maybe there’s a plot twist with another MMC.
My only complaint is that the book didn’t end on a cliffhanger. It was too neat. I want something that makes me anxiously waiting for the next book!! Regardless, I’ll be excited to read number 3 whenever it comes out!
December 17, 2024
4.8
Listen. I love this series. I love I LOVE the magic and the politics and the secrets but BUT sometimes she's getting on my nerves 😂
I think this is better than the faerie throne because of the dynamics and the jumps here and there.
If you liked the cruel prince I think you would like this one 🩶
Listen. I love this series. I love I LOVE the magic and the politics and the secrets but BUT sometimes she's getting on my nerves 😂
I think this is better than the faerie throne because of the dynamics and the jumps here and there.
If you liked the cruel prince I think you would like this one 🩶
December 24, 2024
I love this series so much. I was a little disappointed at the start of the book, hence why it’s not rated 5/5. I love a good enemies to lovers and I feel like the beginning rushed Liserli and Cads reunion. I feel like this book overall could have been way longer but I digress. This series is so good and I am so excited to see what happens next.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 23, 2024
Worth the wait
I have been waiting for months for this to come out! I love Lis and her prince. The banter they have between the two of them is e!tightening and addictive! I feel like there needs to be a third book.....
I have been waiting for months for this to come out! I love Lis and her prince. The banter they have between the two of them is e!tightening and addictive! I feel like there needs to be a third book.....
December 1, 2024
this book is packed
I love the growth of the characters so far. I don’t like that I feel something’s have been skipped over to fast, but I have feeling they’ll be revisited.
I love the growth of the characters so far. I don’t like that I feel something’s have been skipped over to fast, but I have feeling they’ll be revisited.
December 13, 2024
I loved every page of this book. Character growth mixed with awesome world building left me unable to put it down. At the end I kept tapping my kindle looking for more. Bring on book 3!!
January 3, 2025
Loving this series. I can’t wait for the third book. I can’t wait to see what twists and turns she puts into her next book.
January 6, 2025
I love everything about this series and I cannot wait for the third book.
September 11, 2025
great read
Love this story line. Romance and fear; Princes of Faerie and humans with limited magic. It’s a good, quick read. Wish there was a 3rd. Hope there will be?
Love this story line. Romance and fear; Princes of Faerie and humans with limited magic. It’s a good, quick read. Wish there was a 3rd. Hope there will be?
December 4, 2024
Loved the first book but this one simply did not come close to living up to it. I was bored throughout 75% of the book- every time I thought something big would happen… it didn’t. Even the “peak conclusion” of the book was meh.
December 1, 2024
Liked the first book
I was really excited for the second book to come out but unfortunately I feel this one did not meet up to the experience I had reading the first.
I was really excited for the second book to come out but unfortunately I feel this one did not meet up to the experience I had reading the first.
November 30, 2024
(Single POV, first person, M/F, Epic Fantasy?)
This book was thrilling, but I think after reading another fae court political romance, I needed more.
I read the first book a while ago, so I only caught on to the plot after reading a chapter or two. Liserle might have wanted to become a historian, but somehow she became the essential aide for the next king. Her brother had been a rebel before, but now the two were becoming more comfortable with each other’s viewpoints. However, she still didn’t feel comfortable mentioning her budding romance with the other prince, Cadoc, to either her brother or her father.
As a human in the fae realm, they were supposed to be servants, but the kingdom was changing. Both Liserle and Ledger had fae powers, which placed them as “new mutants.” Liserle’s power was supposed to erupt two years later, but her ability to tweak emotions caught the eye of a demon, god, or whatever Deimos was.
As part two of a duet (with potential for more), this story seems to be 1/2 romance/1/2 plot.
Characters:
⁃ Liserli: the strong, self-assured FMC
⁃ Amias: king/king elect/ her employer
⁃ Cadoc: the king’s fashion-forward brother who loves her
⁃ Drystan: her father, the Reaper with the reputation of killing entire villages
⁃ Deimos: the demon from another world or plane of existence
⁃ Wrenly: her BFF who returns
⁃ Eiran: her personal guard and probable spy. A young, inquisitive man
⁃ Ledger: her brother
The Romance:
Cadoc is the perfect doting MMC. He pines for her when she is busy, but he always supports whatever she decides to do, even leave him. He lets her speak, but he stops at wearing the gaudy traditional clothes she arranges, so he is not a complete Golden Retriever.
“Fine, but you know, you’ll have to make it up to me. With all this reading you do, however will I keep myself entertained?”
Yes, there is spice. It’s the spice you get from a happy couple only discovering the relationship.
Spice. / Open Door/.
This book was thrilling, but I think after reading another fae court political romance, I needed more.
I read the first book a while ago, so I only caught on to the plot after reading a chapter or two. Liserle might have wanted to become a historian, but somehow she became the essential aide for the next king. Her brother had been a rebel before, but now the two were becoming more comfortable with each other’s viewpoints. However, she still didn’t feel comfortable mentioning her budding romance with the other prince, Cadoc, to either her brother or her father.
As a human in the fae realm, they were supposed to be servants, but the kingdom was changing. Both Liserle and Ledger had fae powers, which placed them as “new mutants.” Liserle’s power was supposed to erupt two years later, but her ability to tweak emotions caught the eye of a demon, god, or whatever Deimos was.
As part two of a duet (with potential for more), this story seems to be 1/2 romance/1/2 plot.
Characters:
⁃ Liserli: the strong, self-assured FMC
⁃ Amias: king/king elect/ her employer
⁃ Cadoc: the king’s fashion-forward brother who loves her
⁃ Drystan: her father, the Reaper with the reputation of killing entire villages
⁃ Deimos: the demon from another world or plane of existence
⁃ Wrenly: her BFF who returns
⁃ Eiran: her personal guard and probable spy. A young, inquisitive man
⁃ Ledger: her brother
The Romance:
Cadoc is the perfect doting MMC. He pines for her when she is busy, but he always supports whatever she decides to do, even leave him. He lets her speak, but he stops at wearing the gaudy traditional clothes she arranges, so he is not a complete Golden Retriever.
“Fine, but you know, you’ll have to make it up to me. With all this reading you do, however will I keep myself entertained?”
Yes, there is spice. It’s the spice you get from a happy couple only discovering the relationship.
Spice. / Open Door/.
April 14, 2025
Rating: ★★☆☆☆
I stepped into The Broken Court with eager anticipation, having enjoyed the first installment of the Shyal Chronicles. Belle Manuel's prose is undeniably enchanting, painting vivid tapestries of the fae realm that beckon the imagination. The world-building remains a strong suit, immersing readers in a setting rich with magic and intrigue.
However, as I journeyed through the sequel, I found my enthusiasm waning around the halfway mark. The central relationship dynamics, which should have been the heartbeat of the narrative, felt misaligned with my expectations. Instead of drawing me deeper, they distanced me, making it challenging to stay invested.
It's clear that Manuel possesses a talent for crafting immersive worlds, and I respect the vision she brings to her stories. Yet, this particular chapter didn't resonate with me as I'd hoped. And that's perfectly okay. Not every tale will strike a chord with every reader. While this book didn't capture my heart, I still appreciate the artistry behind it and look forward to exploring more of Manuel's works in the future.
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I stepped into The Broken Court with eager anticipation, having enjoyed the first installment of the Shyal Chronicles. Belle Manuel's prose is undeniably enchanting, painting vivid tapestries of the fae realm that beckon the imagination. The world-building remains a strong suit, immersing readers in a setting rich with magic and intrigue.
However, as I journeyed through the sequel, I found my enthusiasm waning around the halfway mark. The central relationship dynamics, which should have been the heartbeat of the narrative, felt misaligned with my expectations. Instead of drawing me deeper, they distanced me, making it challenging to stay invested.
It's clear that Manuel possesses a talent for crafting immersive worlds, and I respect the vision she brings to her stories. Yet, this particular chapter didn't resonate with me as I'd hoped. And that's perfectly okay. Not every tale will strike a chord with every reader. While this book didn't capture my heart, I still appreciate the artistry behind it and look forward to exploring more of Manuel's works in the future.
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February 12, 2025
I’m conflicted.
I was really excited to continue the story, I wanted to learn more about who coordinated the attack on the palace and I wanted to see where the relationship between Liserli and Prince Cadoc went.
Unless I’m just reading too much into it but I don’t trust Ledger, I thought he and Wrenly were hiding something and behind the attack…. But they weren’t?
Also, it was obvious that there was something weird with Eiran. How did no one sense it?!
I felt like the stabbing of Deimos went by so fast, just like that he’s gone??
The relationship between Prince Cadoc and Liserli left something to be desired. He is too infatuated with her and she isn’t reciprocating which is both sad and frustrating, for me as the reader. I was hoping for more with their relationship.
I’m anticipating Killian being a horrible person in some way.
I may be used to books with too many twists and turns and maybe that’s why I feel confused. Overall I did finish in 2 days because I was invested, not a bad story but I just expected more.
I was really excited to continue the story, I wanted to learn more about who coordinated the attack on the palace and I wanted to see where the relationship between Liserli and Prince Cadoc went.
Unless I’m just reading too much into it but I don’t trust Ledger, I thought he and Wrenly were hiding something and behind the attack…. But they weren’t?
Also, it was obvious that there was something weird with Eiran. How did no one sense it?!
I felt like the stabbing of Deimos went by so fast, just like that he’s gone??
The relationship between Prince Cadoc and Liserli left something to be desired. He is too infatuated with her and she isn’t reciprocating which is both sad and frustrating, for me as the reader. I was hoping for more with their relationship.
I’m anticipating Killian being a horrible person in some way.
I may be used to books with too many twists and turns and maybe that’s why I feel confused. Overall I did finish in 2 days because I was invested, not a bad story but I just expected more.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 18, 2024
Book 2 in Chronicles of Shyal series
A complicated game of family relationships, court politics, political intrigue, and mystical daggers that took me on an emotional journey to finding one's place and contribution in life.
The characters showed so much growth in this book. I love the aspects of forgiveness and redemption sprinkled throughout the storyline. And, of course, the swoony moments are always a plus.
"When I first saw you in the city, I was entranced. Not because you're the most beautiful human in the city, but because of this...air around you. Confident, strong."
A complicated game of family relationships, court politics, political intrigue, and mystical daggers that took me on an emotional journey to finding one's place and contribution in life.
The characters showed so much growth in this book. I love the aspects of forgiveness and redemption sprinkled throughout the storyline. And, of course, the swoony moments are always a plus.
"When I first saw you in the city, I was entranced. Not because you're the most beautiful human in the city, but because of this...air around you. Confident, strong."
November 23, 2024
This is the sequel to The Faerie Throne. There was an intricate web of family dynamics, political maneuvering, and enchanted blades led me on a profound emotional expedition to uncovering one's purpose and impact in this world. I loved that Liserli and Ledger have begun the process of rebuilding their relationship. The characters portrayed significant development throughout the story. I appreciate the themes of forgiveness and redemption that are delicately woven into the storyline. And naturally, the swoon-inducing moments add an extra touch of charm.
April 2, 2025
I liked Broken Court, but it didn’t pull me in the way the first book did. It wasn’t as action-packed, and I found myself less hooked this time around.
Cadoc’s transformation was the biggest surprise for me. I actually prefer this version of him over the one in book one, but the change felt too fast. I barely recognized him, and I wish his character arc had more buildup.
It was still a good read, just not as engaging as the first book, imo. Also, the ending was intriguing, I will read book 3 when it comes out
Cadoc’s transformation was the biggest surprise for me. I actually prefer this version of him over the one in book one, but the change felt too fast. I barely recognized him, and I wish his character arc had more buildup.
It was still a good read, just not as engaging as the first book, imo. Also, the ending was intriguing, I will read book 3 when it comes out
October 14, 2025
Plot Holes Galore
I continues this series solely for the FMC and MMC’s romance, which was both heartwarming and lacking at the same time.
Not to mention that between the two books 3 main points happen, none of which are on par with any other fantasy book I’ve read.
The FMC seems like she doesn’t want to even be in the story even though it revolves around her.
The ending leaves the reader wonder WTF about the siblings powers and how the crown can use them.
I continues this series solely for the FMC and MMC’s romance, which was both heartwarming and lacking at the same time.
Not to mention that between the two books 3 main points happen, none of which are on par with any other fantasy book I’ve read.
The FMC seems like she doesn’t want to even be in the story even though it revolves around her.
The ending leaves the reader wonder WTF about the siblings powers and how the crown can use them.
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