What do you think?
Rate this book
The Gift War #1
A House of Cloaks & Daggers
Don't miss this epic morally grey romantasy! Perfect for fans of The Cruel Prince meets A Court of Thorns & Roses, this stunning fantasy romance debut is DARK, SPICY, and will have you gasping for breath and reaching for the sequel by the time you turn the final page.
A House of Cloaks & Daggers brings back yearning with a slow burn romance full of longing, angst, and heat. It takes the tropes you love like fated mates and twists it by making them enemies to lovers. If you crave not one, but two MMCs with those thrilling "touch her and die" vibes, this book will have you in a chokehold from the very beginning all the way through to its electrifying end.
* * * * *
Don't miss the breathtaking sequel, A Palace of Smoke & Mirrors: OUT NOW!
* * * * *
FAERIES CAN'T LIE, BUT CAN THEY KEEP A SECRET?
He blinked a few times as he swung his gaze back to me. “I knew this would happen,” he murmured, beginning to slur as his eyes fought to slam shut once more. “I’m so in love with you, it’s made me sick.”
When Auralie Roberts first meets the man of her dreams, he’s being tortured in them—literally. Obsessed with saving him from the monsters armed with iron weapons, she craves sleep for three long months, if only for the chance to see him again.
The day one of those monsters hunts her into the real world, Aura meets Wren, a cocky High Fae man who saves her life and explains that human women like her are being hunted and killed.
To protect those she loves most—including herself—Aura makes a bargain with Wren and finds herself fleeing into Faerie to seek protection under the High King.
Instead of salvation, Aura only finds secrets. Dark, twisted truths about herself, her family, the High King of Faerie, and even the man from her dreams.
He’s real, but can she save him before it’s too late? And when she finds out who he is, will she still want to?
* * * * *
"Words cannot describe how incredibly captivating and emotionally rich this book was... Every page was filled with unforgettable moments and breathtaking twists. The world, the characters, the banter... All of it was so immersive that by the time I finished, I felt like I had just said goodbye to real friends."
"If I had to describe this book in 5 words or less... It feels like coming home."
"I wish there were more stars to give. I knew in less than ten chapters that this was going to be one of my best reads of the year. If you want mystery, magic, tension, fated mates, plot twists, amazing character development, flawed MMC and FMC without being annoyingly so... JUMP ON THIS BOOK ASAP."
"This book is the fae book I have been looking for."
"I’m still reeling from this incredible read! Loren Little’s writing is pure magic, effortlessly pulling me into a world of fae, magic, and romance."
A House of Cloaks & Daggers brings back yearning with a slow burn romance full of longing, angst, and heat. It takes the tropes you love like fated mates and twists it by making them enemies to lovers. If you crave not one, but two MMCs with those thrilling "touch her and die" vibes, this book will have you in a chokehold from the very beginning all the way through to its electrifying end.
* * * * *
Don't miss the breathtaking sequel, A Palace of Smoke & Mirrors: OUT NOW!
* * * * *
FAERIES CAN'T LIE, BUT CAN THEY KEEP A SECRET?
He blinked a few times as he swung his gaze back to me. “I knew this would happen,” he murmured, beginning to slur as his eyes fought to slam shut once more. “I’m so in love with you, it’s made me sick.”
When Auralie Roberts first meets the man of her dreams, he’s being tortured in them—literally. Obsessed with saving him from the monsters armed with iron weapons, she craves sleep for three long months, if only for the chance to see him again.
The day one of those monsters hunts her into the real world, Aura meets Wren, a cocky High Fae man who saves her life and explains that human women like her are being hunted and killed.
To protect those she loves most—including herself—Aura makes a bargain with Wren and finds herself fleeing into Faerie to seek protection under the High King.
Instead of salvation, Aura only finds secrets. Dark, twisted truths about herself, her family, the High King of Faerie, and even the man from her dreams.
He’s real, but can she save him before it’s too late? And when she finds out who he is, will she still want to?
* * * * *
"Words cannot describe how incredibly captivating and emotionally rich this book was... Every page was filled with unforgettable moments and breathtaking twists. The world, the characters, the banter... All of it was so immersive that by the time I finished, I felt like I had just said goodbye to real friends."
"If I had to describe this book in 5 words or less... It feels like coming home."
"I wish there were more stars to give. I knew in less than ten chapters that this was going to be one of my best reads of the year. If you want mystery, magic, tension, fated mates, plot twists, amazing character development, flawed MMC and FMC without being annoyingly so... JUMP ON THIS BOOK ASAP."
"This book is the fae book I have been looking for."
"I’m still reeling from this incredible read! Loren Little’s writing is pure magic, effortlessly pulling me into a world of fae, magic, and romance."
436 pages, Paperback
First published February 1, 2025
103 people are currently reading
1626 people want to read
About the author
Loren Little
3 books210 followersLoren Little has been writing stories since before she learned how to spell. Her books are dark, sexy, and hopelessly romantic with themes of found family and love growing from the most dismal odds. Loren still believes faeries are real, and she enjoys scattering little pieces of her Australian upbringing into her books.
When she isn't working on her own stories, Loren enjoys watching crime shows and romcoms, and trying to finish her reading challenge as a mood reader with a towering TBR of books.
You can find out more at www.lorenlittle.com. Her most active social media platform is Instagram.
When she isn't working on her own stories, Loren enjoys watching crime shows and romcoms, and trying to finish her reading challenge as a mood reader with a towering TBR of books.
You can find out more at www.lorenlittle.com. Her most active social media platform is Instagram.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 340 reviews
November 12, 2024
“I was consumed. I’d never had someone look at me the way Lucais looked at me—like I was his sole purpose in life, and the world simply ceased to exist from every other angle.”
━━━━━━━━ ❆ ━━━━━━━━
I just want to thank Loren Little for giving me the chance to read her amazing book in exchange for a review (and yes, spoiler alert, I’m on her street team too 🤭). It's truly surreal to get to know her and be part of her journey as she brings her dreams to life.
Words cannot describe how incredibly captivating and emotionally rich this book was - every page was filled with unforgettable moments and breathtaking twists. The world, the characters, the banter...all of it was so immersive that by the time I finished, I felt like I had just said goodbye to real friends.
And before I say anything else, Loren. GOD, Loren 😖 Have I forgiven you for the ending? Absolutely not. Will I get over it if you write Book 2? Maybe, if you write fast enough 🤣 and if you don’t lie to me again… iykyk.
When I say the plot twists I mean the PLOT MF TWISTS, she kept me on the edge of my seat until the very end. And the gasp I gusped GOD LOREN WHY
If you love stories with rich lore, morally complex characters, and a touch of betrayal that lingers like a ghost after you've closed the book, this one is for you. Loren Little, you’ve created something truly special, and I can't wait to see what you have in store for us next. (Be careful bestie 😑🫵)
━━━━━━━━ ❆ ━━━━━━━━
ℭ𝔥𝔞𝔯𝔞𝔠𝔱𝔢𝔯𝔰 ᰔᩚ
Auralie ~ I’ve never thought I’d be jealous or like the nickname “bookworm” but here we are. Jealous and craving for someone to call me bookworm. She’s a book girl through and through. I love her. She’s such a sweetie and I could not even imagine going through what she has and still is. I’d lose my shit 🤣
Wren ~ He’s such a morally gray, witty, sarcastic, golden retriever cutie. The blonde man with the golden eyes 😍 oh and did I mention he reads? This man does it ALL. I usually don’t go for blondes but he’s definitely an exception. More than the exception. He’s THE one.
Lucias ~ He’s such a softie omg. He’s so gentle and caring and just amazingly beautiful. I can’t wait to learn more about him. Oh and did I mention that he’s a dom 😏🤪🤭
━━━━━━━━ ❆ ━━━━━━━━
𝔔𝔲𝔬𝔱𝔢𝔰
“He was the feeling I couldn’t shake. The smell of home, the sense of familiarity that ran so deep that I couldn’t even begin to explain where it had started.”
“I can hear your heartbeat like it’s legato, and I’d love to make it staccato.”
“I’m so in love with you, it’s made me sick.”
“Because there was nothing fucking funny about faeries.”
-
*gasps* FAKE ASS BITCH
━━━━━━━━ ❆ ━━━━━━━━
I just want to thank Loren Little for giving me the chance to read her amazing book in exchange for a review (and yes, spoiler alert, I’m on her street team too 🤭). It's truly surreal to get to know her and be part of her journey as she brings her dreams to life.
Words cannot describe how incredibly captivating and emotionally rich this book was - every page was filled with unforgettable moments and breathtaking twists. The world, the characters, the banter...all of it was so immersive that by the time I finished, I felt like I had just said goodbye to real friends.
And before I say anything else, Loren. GOD, Loren 😖 Have I forgiven you for the ending? Absolutely not. Will I get over it if you write Book 2? Maybe, if you write fast enough 🤣 and if you don’t lie to me again… iykyk.
When I say the plot twists I mean the PLOT MF TWISTS, she kept me on the edge of my seat until the very end. And the gasp I gusped GOD LOREN WHY
If you love stories with rich lore, morally complex characters, and a touch of betrayal that lingers like a ghost after you've closed the book, this one is for you. Loren Little, you’ve created something truly special, and I can't wait to see what you have in store for us next. (Be careful bestie 😑🫵)
━━━━━━━━ ❆ ━━━━━━━━
ℭ𝔥𝔞𝔯𝔞𝔠𝔱𝔢𝔯𝔰 ᰔᩚ
Auralie ~ I’ve never thought I’d be jealous or like the nickname “bookworm” but here we are. Jealous and craving for someone to call me bookworm. She’s a book girl through and through. I love her. She’s such a sweetie and I could not even imagine going through what she has and still is. I’d lose my shit 🤣
Wren ~ He’s such a morally gray, witty, sarcastic, golden retriever cutie. The blonde man with the golden eyes 😍 oh and did I mention he reads? This man does it ALL. I usually don’t go for blondes but he’s definitely an exception. More than the exception. He’s THE one.
Lucias ~ He’s such a softie omg. He’s so gentle and caring and just amazingly beautiful. I can’t wait to learn more about him. Oh and did I mention that he’s a dom 😏🤪🤭
━━━━━━━━ ❆ ━━━━━━━━
𝔔𝔲𝔬𝔱𝔢𝔰
“He was the feeling I couldn’t shake. The smell of home, the sense of familiarity that ran so deep that I couldn’t even begin to explain where it had started.”
“I can hear your heartbeat like it’s legato, and I’d love to make it staccato.”
“I’m so in love with you, it’s made me sick.”
“Because there was nothing fucking funny about faeries.”
-
*gasps* FAKE ASS BITCH
January 17, 2025
3.5 ⭐️rounded up: A House of Cloaks and Daggers was a very interesting, more gothic than dark Romantasy featuring deceptive faerie courts and politics with a fresh, bookish spin. I think this new series has a lot of potential, but did find myself skimming what at times felt like over-description of the environment and wishing instead for more dialogue, better explanation of the world’s lore and more plot development of each of the main characters. The MMC(s) and FMC and side characters were so intriguing that I at times felt like the lengthy book would have been better spent and more enjoyed getting to know them more and their motivations. However, the ending of this book is pretty explosive and did leave me excited for more by this author and more of this series. I’ll be back for book 2! Thanks to the author for this ARC.
January 28, 2025
God, I don’t know how to put into words how amazing this story is and Loren’s take on Faeries and their world.
I absolutely devoured this book, I could not put it down. It was refreshing because it wasn’t like something I had already read before, there isn’t anything to compare it to. There is damn good banter, slow burn, enemies to lovers and lovers to enemies?!? Fated mates like you haven’t seen before! Oh and the spice definitely spiced! Each chapter gave you something else.
If you’re looking for a six star read then jump on this book like your life depends on it. Will forever be one of my top reads and definitely a top read for 2025.
The book hangover you get after finishing is like nothing you’ve felt before.
Some of my fav quotes
“I’m so in love with you, it’s made me sick.”
“Because there was nothing fucking funny about Faeries.”
“I like listening to you read.”
I CANNOT wait for book two! 🖤😏
I absolutely devoured this book, I could not put it down. It was refreshing because it wasn’t like something I had already read before, there isn’t anything to compare it to. There is damn good banter, slow burn, enemies to lovers and lovers to enemies?!? Fated mates like you haven’t seen before! Oh and the spice definitely spiced! Each chapter gave you something else.
If you’re looking for a six star read then jump on this book like your life depends on it. Will forever be one of my top reads and definitely a top read for 2025.
The book hangover you get after finishing is like nothing you’ve felt before.
Some of my fav quotes
“I’m so in love with you, it’s made me sick.”
“Because there was nothing fucking funny about Faeries.”
“I like listening to you read.”
I CANNOT wait for book two! 🖤😏
November 16, 2024
*I was honored with an ARC of this book, and this is my honest review*
This book has it all!:
✅ strong but very realistic FMC
✅ morally grey MMC(s) that will burn the world for her
✅ banter that mfin banters
✅ slow burn spice
✅ mysteries and secrets
✅ oracle prophecies
✅ an adorable nickname
✅ lovable side characters
✅ political intrigue
✅ magical creatures of all types
✅ a HUGE plot twist AND cliff hanger that will have your jaw on the floor and possibly your kindle’s life in danger
This book follows Auralie (Aura) as she’s thrust into the world of Faerie. Auralie was plagued with nightmares where she watched as an unnamed man was tortured night after night, but when she wakes she’s unable to tell anybody what her dreams are about. Then one day, the dreams just stop. While working at a bookshop, creatures from the land of faeries appear trying to hunt her down. After learning the lives of her mother and sister are in danger if she stays in the mortal realm, she reluctantly agrees to go with Wren (an infuriating yet handsome Fae) to Faerie to gain the protection of the High King of Faerie.
On her journey and upon arrival at the King’s keep, she learns things are not as they seem and there are sinister things happening. As the story progresses, there are more twists and turns that unfold that keep you on the edge of your seat. Just when you think you know what’s happening, Loren throws another curve ball at you.
Loren created a beautiful world within this book. She’s descriptive without being boring allowing you to really feel like you’re in Faerie with Aura. She’s created characters with layers and depth who are relatable, infuriating and swoon worthy. She’s manufactured a captivating story that has romance, magic, war, and a mysterious aspect to drive the plot.
“Do you all understand that touching her is suicide, and speaking about her is treason.”
“I’m so in love with you, it’s made me sick”
PS. Loren, please please please, write quickly or I fear I’ll never recover from that absolutely soul wrenching cliff hanger
This book has it all!:
✅ strong but very realistic FMC
✅ morally grey MMC(s) that will burn the world for her
✅ banter that mfin banters
✅ slow burn spice
✅ mysteries and secrets
✅ oracle prophecies
✅ an adorable nickname
✅ lovable side characters
✅ political intrigue
✅ magical creatures of all types
✅ a HUGE plot twist AND cliff hanger that will have your jaw on the floor and possibly your kindle’s life in danger
This book follows Auralie (Aura) as she’s thrust into the world of Faerie. Auralie was plagued with nightmares where she watched as an unnamed man was tortured night after night, but when she wakes she’s unable to tell anybody what her dreams are about. Then one day, the dreams just stop. While working at a bookshop, creatures from the land of faeries appear trying to hunt her down. After learning the lives of her mother and sister are in danger if she stays in the mortal realm, she reluctantly agrees to go with Wren (an infuriating yet handsome Fae) to Faerie to gain the protection of the High King of Faerie.
On her journey and upon arrival at the King’s keep, she learns things are not as they seem and there are sinister things happening. As the story progresses, there are more twists and turns that unfold that keep you on the edge of your seat. Just when you think you know what’s happening, Loren throws another curve ball at you.
Loren created a beautiful world within this book. She’s descriptive without being boring allowing you to really feel like you’re in Faerie with Aura. She’s created characters with layers and depth who are relatable, infuriating and swoon worthy. She’s manufactured a captivating story that has romance, magic, war, and a mysterious aspect to drive the plot.
“Do you all understand that touching her is suicide, and speaking about her is treason.”
“I’m so in love with you, it’s made me sick”
PS. Loren, please please please, write quickly or I fear I’ll never recover from that absolutely soul wrenching cliff hanger
November 9, 2024
TAKE ALL THE STARS LOREN ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
All I can say is, wow. I devoured A House of Cloaks and Daggers within hours of getting my hands on it, and I’m honestly still reeling.
This was my first arc in a while, and from the synopsis and book cover, I decided to give it a go. I can’t believe this is Loren Little’s debut—this book felt like a true work of fantasy magic! The fae world Loren created is dark, alluring, and unlike anything I’ve read before. From page one, I was hooked, swooning, and giggling to myself.
First, let me just say: Wren and the High King? SWOON. Wren is the perfect morally grey hero with that irresistible “touch her and you’re dead” vibe, and the High King? Total dream daddy material. There’s banter for days, and the slow-burn romance between the characters is next level. Loren doesn’t just give us enemies-to-lovers; she throws in lovers-to-enemies, fated mates, and even an oracle prophecy. Each chapter left me wanting more, and the spice—let’s just say it definitely spiced!
Auralie Roberts, the main character, is beautifully layered and so relatable, especially for anyone who finds comfort in books. She’s lived a life filled with ups and downs, only to be thrown into an unexpected world of fae and magic when she meets the cocky fae warrior Wren. When Aura discovers that the man haunting her dreams is real, her whole life changes. This book has everything: elemental magic, epic battles, and secrets lurking around every castle corner. Every moment with these characters had me on edge, and the cliffhanger ending? Cursing Loren for it in the best way possible.
This book truly feels like you are wrapped up in a hug by a loved one and coming home. It’s been a while since I’ve connected with a story so deeply—it pulled me out of a major fantasy reading slump and gave me a place to escape to. Loren’s take on faeries is refreshing, and the dark, twisty secrets kept me guessing. If you’re looking for a book that’ll make you laugh, cry, and swoon all at once, A House of Cloaks and Daggers is it. It’s the perfect blend of fantasy and romance, and it’s easily one of my top reads of the year.
Preorder this now for February 1, 2025—you will not regret it. 5 stars all the way!
All I can say is, wow. I devoured A House of Cloaks and Daggers within hours of getting my hands on it, and I’m honestly still reeling.
This was my first arc in a while, and from the synopsis and book cover, I decided to give it a go. I can’t believe this is Loren Little’s debut—this book felt like a true work of fantasy magic! The fae world Loren created is dark, alluring, and unlike anything I’ve read before. From page one, I was hooked, swooning, and giggling to myself.
First, let me just say: Wren and the High King? SWOON. Wren is the perfect morally grey hero with that irresistible “touch her and you’re dead” vibe, and the High King? Total dream daddy material. There’s banter for days, and the slow-burn romance between the characters is next level. Loren doesn’t just give us enemies-to-lovers; she throws in lovers-to-enemies, fated mates, and even an oracle prophecy. Each chapter left me wanting more, and the spice—let’s just say it definitely spiced!
Auralie Roberts, the main character, is beautifully layered and so relatable, especially for anyone who finds comfort in books. She’s lived a life filled with ups and downs, only to be thrown into an unexpected world of fae and magic when she meets the cocky fae warrior Wren. When Aura discovers that the man haunting her dreams is real, her whole life changes. This book has everything: elemental magic, epic battles, and secrets lurking around every castle corner. Every moment with these characters had me on edge, and the cliffhanger ending? Cursing Loren for it in the best way possible.
This book truly feels like you are wrapped up in a hug by a loved one and coming home. It’s been a while since I’ve connected with a story so deeply—it pulled me out of a major fantasy reading slump and gave me a place to escape to. Loren’s take on faeries is refreshing, and the dark, twisty secrets kept me guessing. If you’re looking for a book that’ll make you laugh, cry, and swoon all at once, A House of Cloaks and Daggers is it. It’s the perfect blend of fantasy and romance, and it’s easily one of my top reads of the year.
Preorder this now for February 1, 2025—you will not regret it. 5 stars all the way!
February 1, 2025
I. Loved. This. First of all the cover..10/10 gorgeous. The fact this is a debut author? Incredible! I had such a good time during this read. If it wouldn’t cause spoilers, I would share all my kindle notes because the entertainment factor with those alone definitely are a vibe.
I really enjoyed these characters. I thought the author did really well at giving them each their distinct personality traits that made you love them but also want to punch them in the face. Which has to be done in the right way for me to enjoy that you know?
And while I really loved the characters, what stood out to me the most was this storyline and the world building within the storyline. The world is very modern but still has that typical “fantasy” feel. The rooms and decor and overall ethereal sense were written wonderfully. The descriptions were done SO well. I could clearly visualize so many things, moments, rooms, etc.
Now this storyline…..lawd. The intense urge I had to look up spoilers in the spoiler chat in the ARC group was a lot! This gave me emotional whiplash I tell ya. It was just a steady stream of suspense with wondering how this is all going to play out.
All in all I loved it!! This comes out on February 1st and I highly recommend reading it!
A big thank you to the author Loren Little for this free ARC in exchange for my honest review ☺️
I really enjoyed these characters. I thought the author did really well at giving them each their distinct personality traits that made you love them but also want to punch them in the face. Which has to be done in the right way for me to enjoy that you know?
And while I really loved the characters, what stood out to me the most was this storyline and the world building within the storyline. The world is very modern but still has that typical “fantasy” feel. The rooms and decor and overall ethereal sense were written wonderfully. The descriptions were done SO well. I could clearly visualize so many things, moments, rooms, etc.
Now this storyline…..lawd. The intense urge I had to look up spoilers in the spoiler chat in the ARC group was a lot! This gave me emotional whiplash I tell ya. It was just a steady stream of suspense with wondering how this is all going to play out.
All in all I loved it!! This comes out on February 1st and I highly recommend reading it!
A big thank you to the author Loren Little for this free ARC in exchange for my honest review ☺️
November 5, 2024
Ooh..when people add me on goodreads, they have to give me a book rec in order to submit a friend request. Loren had recommended me "A House of Cloak & Daggers", the cover was aboustely gorgeous and my crow brain kidded in.
I signed up for an arc and counted days to receive a copy.
TW: domestic violence - including children being hurt by abuser.
Ooh wow. I barely got two paragraphs into this story before realising how beautiful with vivid imagery the words create. By the end of chapter 1, I could picture this as a movie or a TV show. I was already enjoy A house of cloak & daggers.
I will adimit that i started this at 10.30pm on my way home from work and I wanna say goddamn you..instead going home and straight to bed like a person whose done a night shift, i wanted to stay up and read the book, knowing I'd regret in the morning when I go to my morning shift. So..thanks Loren. 😅
Oh boy..this book is truly addictive. Got to work a bit too early, read this..nearly was late to start cause I was sitting in the staff room reading this.
I aboustely love the banter between the characters. The depth that the characters have, including the way information is shared. It's not force feed but rather everything flows naturally.
When I got to chapter 23, I started to feel like i was reading the Fallen series (Lauren Kate), with the fated mates, the dreams not making sense to the FMC and the need to figure out those dreams.
Oh.my. 63%. Got to that mark while I was at work. Sitting in the staff room. Struggling to eat before work. Damn..just..woah.
My only problem with this story is the way it ends. It's so addictive that it's abrupt ending got me so hungry for me. So, that's cruel. Book 2? When?
I felt so heartbroken for Aura with the trick that was played on her. If that happened to me, I would've told both men to "Go Fk themselves for all eternity. Bastards.
Thank you so much Loren for recommending me your book. Aboustely love it and can't wait to see what else is in store for your fictional worlds.
I signed up for an arc and counted days to receive a copy.
TW: domestic violence - including children being hurt by abuser.
Ooh wow. I barely got two paragraphs into this story before realising how beautiful with vivid imagery the words create. By the end of chapter 1, I could picture this as a movie or a TV show. I was already enjoy A house of cloak & daggers.
I will adimit that i started this at 10.30pm on my way home from work and I wanna say goddamn you..instead going home and straight to bed like a person whose done a night shift, i wanted to stay up and read the book, knowing I'd regret in the morning when I go to my morning shift. So..thanks Loren. 😅
Oh boy..this book is truly addictive. Got to work a bit too early, read this..nearly was late to start cause I was sitting in the staff room reading this.
I aboustely love the banter between the characters. The depth that the characters have, including the way information is shared. It's not force feed but rather everything flows naturally.
When I got to chapter 23, I started to feel like i was reading the Fallen series (Lauren Kate), with the fated mates, the dreams not making sense to the FMC and the need to figure out those dreams.
Oh.my. 63%. Got to that mark while I was at work. Sitting in the staff room. Struggling to eat before work. Damn..just..woah.
My only problem with this story is the way it ends. It's so addictive that it's abrupt ending got me so hungry for me. So, that's cruel. Book 2? When?
I felt so heartbroken for Aura with the trick that was played on her. If that happened to me, I would've told both men to "Go Fk themselves for all eternity. Bastards.
Thank you so much Loren for recommending me your book. Aboustely love it and can't wait to see what else is in store for your fictional worlds.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 29, 2025
House of Cloaks and Daggers
5⭐️ and 2.5🌶️
🖤Dark Romantasy
🖤Fae and Humans
🖤Fated mates
🖤BANTER
🖤slow burn
🖤secrets, deception
🖤he has an adorable nickname for her
🖤political intrigue
(Spoiler-free as always) are you a fan of The Cruel Prince or Caraval and you’ve ever wondered, wow I wonder what a book like this would be like with more spice?! LOOK NO FURTHER 😂 I didn’t know what I was jumping into when I started this read but I am so glad I went into it blind and experienced it as I went. Every new twist and turn had me reeling and by the end of the book I was gripping the pages so hard. I adore the FMC, she felt very relatable and the MMC(s) were also incredible and morally grey and fantastic. I enjoyed every chapter, after every chapter I found myself aching to read the next chapter. Beautifully and written with the reader’s entertainment in mind- I JUST COULDNT PUT IT DOWN 😂😂
Thank you to the author, and to MTMC tours for the gifted copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
5⭐️ and 2.5🌶️
🖤Dark Romantasy
🖤Fae and Humans
🖤Fated mates
🖤BANTER
🖤slow burn
🖤secrets, deception
🖤he has an adorable nickname for her
🖤political intrigue
(Spoiler-free as always) are you a fan of The Cruel Prince or Caraval and you’ve ever wondered, wow I wonder what a book like this would be like with more spice?! LOOK NO FURTHER 😂 I didn’t know what I was jumping into when I started this read but I am so glad I went into it blind and experienced it as I went. Every new twist and turn had me reeling and by the end of the book I was gripping the pages so hard. I adore the FMC, she felt very relatable and the MMC(s) were also incredible and morally grey and fantastic. I enjoyed every chapter, after every chapter I found myself aching to read the next chapter. Beautifully and written with the reader’s entertainment in mind- I JUST COULDNT PUT IT DOWN 😂😂
Thank you to the author, and to MTMC tours for the gifted copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 23, 2024
ACR READ
A House Of Cloaks & Daggers
Loren Little
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
“I’m so in love with you, it’s made me sick”
I am incredibly lucky to be on Loren’s street team! 🤍
First off I am even having a hard time finding words for how incredible this first book is. YES it’s apart of a series! I was literally cursing at the ending because it gets left on such a cliffhanger.
When Auralie Robert’s first meets the man of her dreams he’s being tortured in them, literally. Unable to save this man from the monsters she ends up coming face to face with one herself in her small hometown that is hunting her.
The cocky high fae Wren saves her and explains that humans like her are being hunted. To save her family and everyone she loves she flees to find protection with the High King in Faerie to only discover all the dark and twisty secrets within the walls of the castle.
She discovers the man of her dreams is real but can she save him when she finds out who he is ? Or will she want to.
This book has everything!
✨Morally Grey MMC
✨Touch her and you ☠️
✨ Enemies to lovers
✨Oracle Prophecy
✨Elemental Magic
✨Fated Mates
✨Banter
✨He falls first & falls harder
Please go preorder this book on Amazon & save it on your good reads you won’t be disappointed!
It comes out February 1, 2025! 🤍
A House Of Cloaks & Daggers
Loren Little
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
“I’m so in love with you, it’s made me sick”
I am incredibly lucky to be on Loren’s street team! 🤍
First off I am even having a hard time finding words for how incredible this first book is. YES it’s apart of a series! I was literally cursing at the ending because it gets left on such a cliffhanger.
When Auralie Robert’s first meets the man of her dreams he’s being tortured in them, literally. Unable to save this man from the monsters she ends up coming face to face with one herself in her small hometown that is hunting her.
The cocky high fae Wren saves her and explains that humans like her are being hunted. To save her family and everyone she loves she flees to find protection with the High King in Faerie to only discover all the dark and twisty secrets within the walls of the castle.
She discovers the man of her dreams is real but can she save him when she finds out who he is ? Or will she want to.
This book has everything!
✨Morally Grey MMC
✨Touch her and you ☠️
✨ Enemies to lovers
✨Oracle Prophecy
✨Elemental Magic
✨Fated Mates
✨Banter
✨He falls first & falls harder
Please go preorder this book on Amazon & save it on your good reads you won’t be disappointed!
It comes out February 1, 2025! 🤍
January 24, 2025
Hey so, I LOVED this book!
It's got fae, it's got banter, it's got some spicy scenes.. I mean what MORE could you want?
Our FMC is a book girly and works in a bookstore, which is the dream if we're being honest. She's protective of who she loves & naturally her world is turned upside down with the a realization (no spoilers here!).
Our MMC is a cocky fae (shocking I know) who thinks very highly of himself, teases our FMC, and plays on the fact that she doesn't know the right things to do/say/ask. BUT is that really who he is or is it all just an act for her?
Big thank you to Loren and publisher for the ARC of this! I really enjoyed and cannot WAIT for the next book :)
It's got fae, it's got banter, it's got some spicy scenes.. I mean what MORE could you want?
Our FMC is a book girly and works in a bookstore, which is the dream if we're being honest. She's protective of who she loves & naturally her world is turned upside down with the a realization (no spoilers here!).
Our MMC is a cocky fae (shocking I know) who thinks very highly of himself, teases our FMC, and plays on the fact that she doesn't know the right things to do/say/ask. BUT is that really who he is or is it all just an act for her?
Big thank you to Loren and publisher for the ARC of this! I really enjoyed and cannot WAIT for the next book :)
October 29, 2024
If I had to describe this book in 5 words or less...
- It feels like coming home -
Fave scene: "I like listening to you read." - IYKYK.
I read this book at a really vulnerable time - having the honour of being on Loren's Beta Team. It changed my life - it gave me my spark back. This is my wholehearted, honest review.
For weeks, I had struggled to pick up a book. The idea of concentrating enough to be able to read just felt awful and brought me to tears. So imagine my surprise when I couldn't put Loren's book down. It pulled me out of one of the worst reading slumps I have ever been in and gave me the perfect place to escape to...
"I knew this would happen," he murmured, beginning to slur as his eyes fought to slam shut once more. "I'm so in love with you it's made me sick."
Our FMC - Auralie - what a character. She's led an interesting life, but finding her love and comfort in books, she's a girl after my own heart.
Fast forward to the day that she meets one of the MMCs - Wren - and her world all but implodes.
Leaving everything she's ever known - the good and the bad - Aura follows Wren into a world of magic, a world of excitement, a world nothing like she ever could have imagined.
What exactly does Aura find when she gets there?
You'll have to read it and find out...
Enemies to lovers - lovers to enemies. This slow-burn, dark fantasy romance has banter that just makes my heart happy. If you're looking for a book to give you feels - look no further.
"Because there was nothing f**king funny about faeries."
- It feels like coming home -
Fave scene: "I like listening to you read." - IYKYK.
I read this book at a really vulnerable time - having the honour of being on Loren's Beta Team. It changed my life - it gave me my spark back. This is my wholehearted, honest review.
For weeks, I had struggled to pick up a book. The idea of concentrating enough to be able to read just felt awful and brought me to tears. So imagine my surprise when I couldn't put Loren's book down. It pulled me out of one of the worst reading slumps I have ever been in and gave me the perfect place to escape to...
"I knew this would happen," he murmured, beginning to slur as his eyes fought to slam shut once more. "I'm so in love with you it's made me sick."
Our FMC - Auralie - what a character. She's led an interesting life, but finding her love and comfort in books, she's a girl after my own heart.
Fast forward to the day that she meets one of the MMCs - Wren - and her world all but implodes.
Leaving everything she's ever known - the good and the bad - Aura follows Wren into a world of magic, a world of excitement, a world nothing like she ever could have imagined.
What exactly does Aura find when she gets there?
You'll have to read it and find out...
Enemies to lovers - lovers to enemies. This slow-burn, dark fantasy romance has banter that just makes my heart happy. If you're looking for a book to give you feels - look no further.
"Because there was nothing f**king funny about faeries."
January 2, 2025
This story hooked me in from the beginning - who doesn't love a modern day to faerie story involving morally grey men??
I loved that the FMC is a total bookworm even if she does seem a bit snobby in her book choices. Wren was intriguing from the very beginning - I love a morally grey character who doesn't immediately bow to the FMCs every whim.
The world building was great, and I loved the concept of having an under and an over world along with the normal one. However there were multiple similarities to other fae based stories out there so at times it did feel like it was following the 'mould'. But the Malum are interesting and different, and I would have liked to have seen more of them rather than their beasties.
I guessed the major 'twist' very early on in the book. It seemed obvious to me so I'm not sure if it was meant to be that way or not.
Spoilers ahead for the ending -
Okay sorry but this ending doesn't make any sense. She has no idea how to use her powers. She refuses to even admit she has powers. But all of a sudden not only can she control said powers, but she knows how to disappear using them?? It just doesn't add up for me.
But that being said, I still zoomed through this story and found it a good read. I definitely want to read book two to see where the story is going to go next.
I loved that the FMC is a total bookworm even if she does seem a bit snobby in her book choices. Wren was intriguing from the very beginning - I love a morally grey character who doesn't immediately bow to the FMCs every whim.
The world building was great, and I loved the concept of having an under and an over world along with the normal one. However there were multiple similarities to other fae based stories out there so at times it did feel like it was following the 'mould'. But the Malum are interesting and different, and I would have liked to have seen more of them rather than their beasties.
I guessed the major 'twist' very early on in the book. It seemed obvious to me so I'm not sure if it was meant to be that way or not.
Spoilers ahead for the ending -
Okay sorry but this ending doesn't make any sense. She has no idea how to use her powers. She refuses to even admit she has powers. But all of a sudden not only can she control said powers, but she knows how to disappear using them?? It just doesn't add up for me.
But that being said, I still zoomed through this story and found it a good read. I definitely want to read book two to see where the story is going to go next.
November 14, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Ahhhhh I LOVED THIS!
House of Cloaks and Daggers is an incredible read that completely swept me off my feet! I love Loren Little's writing, it’s so easy to read and pulls you right into the story. I found myself so immersed that I never wanted to put it down. I could have quite happily binged this 🤭
From the very first page, I was hooked! I couldn’t put it down, even when my eyes were begging for rest. Wren (👀) is going straight on to my list of book boyfriends. The emotional rollercoaster this book takes you on is intense, with twists that kept me guessing and a cliffhanger that left my jaw on the floor!
If you're into, twisty fantasy with high stakes and sizzling romance, you absolutely need to check out A House of Cloaks and Daggers. It’s hard to believe this is Loren Little’s debut novel—if this is just the beginning, I can’t wait to see what she comes up with next!
Ahhhhh I LOVED THIS!
House of Cloaks and Daggers is an incredible read that completely swept me off my feet! I love Loren Little's writing, it’s so easy to read and pulls you right into the story. I found myself so immersed that I never wanted to put it down. I could have quite happily binged this 🤭
From the very first page, I was hooked! I couldn’t put it down, even when my eyes were begging for rest. Wren (👀) is going straight on to my list of book boyfriends. The emotional rollercoaster this book takes you on is intense, with twists that kept me guessing and a cliffhanger that left my jaw on the floor!
If you're into, twisty fantasy with high stakes and sizzling romance, you absolutely need to check out A House of Cloaks and Daggers. It’s hard to believe this is Loren Little’s debut novel—if this is just the beginning, I can’t wait to see what she comes up with next!
November 10, 2024
i just have to say that i am absolutely enamored with this book and i am so glad that i was able to read the arc. give loren little all her flowers plus more!
a house of cloaks and daggers has been a fantastical roller coaster leaving me begging for the next book in the series already.
the twist within this story was renewing. i can typically guess what the twist in a story will be, but with this one i was left clueless and found myself learning the twist in real time with the beautifully written auralie herself.
the character and world building was immaculately done and i find myself still reeling from the cliffhanger i was stuck with.
i find this to be a refreshing tale within the world of the fae and i think i needed to read this story to satisfy my need for a romantasy where the plot wasn’t thrown on a back burner.
i highly recommend everyone to read this story and fall in love with the tale spun by a great author.
beautiful job well done!
**this is an early review as i was gifted an arc of this book**
a house of cloaks and daggers has been a fantastical roller coaster leaving me begging for the next book in the series already.
the twist within this story was renewing. i can typically guess what the twist in a story will be, but with this one i was left clueless and found myself learning the twist in real time with the beautifully written auralie herself.
the character and world building was immaculately done and i find myself still reeling from the cliffhanger i was stuck with.
i find this to be a refreshing tale within the world of the fae and i think i needed to read this story to satisfy my need for a romantasy where the plot wasn’t thrown on a back burner.
i highly recommend everyone to read this story and fall in love with the tale spun by a great author.
beautiful job well done!
**this is an early review as i was gifted an arc of this book**
January 31, 2025
Thank you for selecting me as an ARC reader!
“I knew this would happen,” he murmured, beginning to slur as his eyes fought to slam shut again. “I’m so in love with you, it’s made me sick.”
4⭐️
This book has so much potential. Overall I really enjoyed this story and the direction it’s headed. It had great plot twists, it was laugh out loud funny at times, and Loren really made me feel ALLLLL sorts of ways about the characters. There were times though, when it felt like there was a bit too much description to certain things that really weren’t essential. Overly descriptive? I would have liked more of that towards the plot. Sometimes I felt like I was getting lost. However it started finding its rhythm towards the end and made me super excited to continue on with this world and these characters. Plus I love an MMC with cheeky one liners. And a feisty FMC too! 💙
“Take as much as you need,” I whispered, brushing my lips across his skin as I moved my mouth to his ear. “Because when you wake up, I am going to fucking kill you.”
“I knew this would happen,” he murmured, beginning to slur as his eyes fought to slam shut again. “I’m so in love with you, it’s made me sick.”
4⭐️
This book has so much potential. Overall I really enjoyed this story and the direction it’s headed. It had great plot twists, it was laugh out loud funny at times, and Loren really made me feel ALLLLL sorts of ways about the characters. There were times though, when it felt like there was a bit too much description to certain things that really weren’t essential. Overly descriptive? I would have liked more of that towards the plot. Sometimes I felt like I was getting lost. However it started finding its rhythm towards the end and made me super excited to continue on with this world and these characters. Plus I love an MMC with cheeky one liners. And a feisty FMC too! 💙
“Take as much as you need,” I whispered, brushing my lips across his skin as I moved my mouth to his ear. “Because when you wake up, I am going to fucking kill you.”
November 8, 2024
⭐️Rating: 5/5
I am a member of Loren’s ARC team & received an advanced copy of the book to review early.
The end!? The end!? I have never been so devastated to see those words at the end of a book. I need more, please expedite book two! You guys this book was everything. Five star read of November.
I am a member of Loren’s ARC team & received an advanced copy of the book to review early.
The end!? The end!? I have never been so devastated to see those words at the end of a book. I need more, please expedite book two! You guys this book was everything. Five star read of November.
November 21, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
I’m a member of Loren’s ARC team and was gifted this book as an early review.
This took me a hot minute to get into because I haven’t been loving fantasy recently. But once I was in it, I was in it. This was a fantastic read.
Loren created a wonderful world of Faries.
The twist at the end and the cliff hanger is so good.
I hope to be apart of the ARC team for the second book
I’m a member of Loren’s ARC team and was gifted this book as an early review.
This took me a hot minute to get into because I haven’t been loving fantasy recently. But once I was in it, I was in it. This was a fantastic read.
Loren created a wonderful world of Faries.
The twist at the end and the cliff hanger is so good.
I hope to be apart of the ARC team for the second book
March 20, 2025
I started this book as an ARC in December. Then work got me in a chokehold so I had zero time for reading physical books (I do audiobooks while I work).
Fast forward to last weekend and my three glorious days off and I DEVOURED this story!
Everything about this book was captivating- the will-they, won’t-they; the do they, don’t they; the barely concealed sexual tension; the love triangle; the monsters; the court intrigue; the ploT TWIST; THE CLIFFHANGER!!!
I actually dislike miscommunication tropes but when it’s masterfully calculated!!!! Muah! Chef’s kiss.
I cannot wait to see what bombs Loren Little is gonna drop on my world in the next book. I need answers damn it!
Fast forward to last weekend and my three glorious days off and I DEVOURED this story!
Everything about this book was captivating- the will-they, won’t-they; the do they, don’t they; the barely concealed sexual tension; the love triangle; the monsters; the court intrigue; the ploT TWIST; THE CLIFFHANGER!!!
I actually dislike miscommunication tropes but when it’s masterfully calculated!!!! Muah! Chef’s kiss.
I cannot wait to see what bombs Loren Little is gonna drop on my world in the next book. I need answers damn it!
March 7, 2025
6 damn stars.
Full review to come once I get my shit together because I have so many to type out. Read this book. Read it. Now.
Full review to come once I get my shit together because I have so many to type out. Read this book. Read it. Now.
January 14, 2025
Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.5 ⭐️
Just a few chapters in and I knew that I would enjoy this book, the story grabs your attention and has you interested from page one, with an extremely vivid and descriptive writing style you cant help but keep reading.
**SPOILERS**
The characters have great banter. I was routing for the “morally grey” MMC from day one, as we do as book girlies 😂 and spent most of the book wishing Lucien would get lost so Wren could have his moment, only to find out, that I actually wanted Lucien to have his moment all along!!
I found the connection between Aura and “ fake Lucien” to be somewhat flimsy and quite insta- lovie, but that now makes sense why.
I could both see the plot twist coming but equally not see it coming because I didn’t see a way in which it could play out and still make sense, which in the end the writer did extremely well.
**SPOILERS FINISHED**
This is for readers that enjoy dark fantasy romance elements , enemies to lovers, morality grey men and a sort of reverse harem type love interest.
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.5 ⭐️
Just a few chapters in and I knew that I would enjoy this book, the story grabs your attention and has you interested from page one, with an extremely vivid and descriptive writing style you cant help but keep reading.
**SPOILERS**
The characters have great banter. I was routing for the “morally grey” MMC from day one, as we do as book girlies 😂 and spent most of the book wishing Lucien would get lost so Wren could have his moment, only to find out, that I actually wanted Lucien to have his moment all along!!
I found the connection between Aura and “ fake Lucien” to be somewhat flimsy and quite insta- lovie, but that now makes sense why.
I could both see the plot twist coming but equally not see it coming because I didn’t see a way in which it could play out and still make sense, which in the end the writer did extremely well.
**SPOILERS FINISHED**
This is for readers that enjoy dark fantasy romance elements , enemies to lovers, morality grey men and a sort of reverse harem type love interest.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 21, 2025
It took me way too long to get through this book—probably should have DNFed but I was determined. The premise sounded promising and right up my alley and the cover is amazing. I also read some of the early reviews that were raving about it. However, I feel like it pulled way too much from ACOTAR in an obvious way (Court of darkness, Court of wind, etc.) and everything was so slow moving and predictable. The plot twist wasn’t very twisty in my opinion.
The potential was there but the writing style/application just wasn’t for me. I think a lot of people would eat this up but if you are into high fantasy or complex world building I don’t know that this one would be for you.
Thank you Loren Little for an ARC of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The potential was there but the writing style/application just wasn’t for me. I think a lot of people would eat this up but if you are into high fantasy or complex world building I don’t know that this one would be for you.
Thank you Loren Little for an ARC of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 3, 2025
***ARC REVIEW***
First of all, I can confirm that this book is indeed free from hexes.
A House of Cloaks & Daggers is a fantastic read! A book lover gets pulled into a fantasy world. I had a very hard time putting this one down and was not ready for it to be over. Lots of great tropes here… enemies to lovers, morally grey MMC(s), feisty FMC, spicy, hilarious banter, fated mates, prophecies & magic, sooo many plot twists and a crazy ending!
Add this to your TBR, you don’t want to miss this one!
Releases on February 1st, 2025.
“You’re going to be the death of me, Bookworm.”
“But that’s the hope, isn’t it?”
First of all, I can confirm that this book is indeed free from hexes.
A House of Cloaks & Daggers is a fantastic read! A book lover gets pulled into a fantasy world. I had a very hard time putting this one down and was not ready for it to be over. Lots of great tropes here… enemies to lovers, morally grey MMC(s), feisty FMC, spicy, hilarious banter, fated mates, prophecies & magic, sooo many plot twists and a crazy ending!
Add this to your TBR, you don’t want to miss this one!
Releases on February 1st, 2025.
“You’re going to be the death of me, Bookworm.”
“But that’s the hope, isn’t it?”
November 24, 2024
You can find this review of A House of Cloaks and Daggers on my blog, Heart's Content!
A big shout out and thank you to the author for providing me with a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review!
Disclaimer: No one’s hair was pulled out during the course of the time this book was read. Though I came close.
This review contains mentions of headstones, cortisol levels, blood pressure machines and cookies. If any of this is enticing, confusing or stressful; then good. You have been warned of what the book will make you feel.
Proceed with caution.
Still here?
Your funeral. (HA! Early headstone reference!)
If I could review this book in one sentence it would be: “The stress was stressing.”
Having gotten that poignant phrase out of the way, I’d like to talk a little about what drew me to A House of Cloaks and Daggers. If you haven’t checked out the author’s threads/Instagram page, I would recommend you do so immediately. Why? Firstly, thank you for asking. Secondly, it’s because the author has the sweetest little posts about her conversations with her MMC. I think I sank down the rabbit hole of those posts and laughed so hard I couldn’t imagine not walking down the path of curiosity for AHoCaD, and so that’s what I did. I obsessed over the blurb, stalked the author’s page a lot and nearly passed out when this baby landed in my Kindle.
But of course, being an adult means you know you have responsibilities and that meant I had to read AHoCaD a little later than I had initially planned. But the moment I sank into it, I straight up drowned.
The book should’ve come with a warning, honestly.
The writing, according to me, is the biggest tool of deception the author has wielded against us. With magic and mayhem, we’re lead straight into madness, secrets and chaos. The narration of the story happens primarily in the FMC’s perspective and that adds a great deal of tension, pain and mystery to the story and the writing highlights all these elements unapologetically.
Loren describes an absolutely beautiful vision for us, before ripping it away so we face the harsh reality of the price of being in the world she has crafted. It’s honestly lovely. Nothing to worry about at all.
The pace of the book begins almost leisurely. Lazily. Just a bookworm. In a bookstore. Doing book things. But, before you know it, there’s about seven things happening at the same time; drawing your attention in five different directions. The thing is, you know you have questions, but you don’t have time to think of the questions you have; because the moment you’re in your mind wondering about something, four new things have happened on page. Books have always meant to remove you from reality and I think Loren’s book does exactly that at every turn; keeping you immersed in its story until you suddenly surface realizing you’ve finished the book. I have no way to explain the pace, as much as I can say it’s like what happens when you actually experience something. You don’t realize the time that goes by until after.
I remember very well I began to cry at one point because of something happening on scene and looked down accidentally and saw that I was at the 50% mark. To say the least, it came as a real shock because it felt like I’d just started the book. Don’t worry about the crying part though. Another thing to not worry about at all.
Who says readers don’t live dangerously? I’d like to submit my cortisol and adrenaline levels from the two days I read AHoCaD as evidence to my stressful life. Thank you, your Honour.
Circling back.
There was something I found quite interesting about the FMC in this book, or perhaps it’s the way Loren has written her. I enjoyed the consistency to her character that the author has maintained throughout with regard to one particular thing—that of course I can’t reveal because it’s a spoiler—but would’ve been such a great addition to speak about in this review. The characters in any story make up the most vital part of it. Either you love them, hate them, relate to them or want to protect them. It’s not often though that you feel most of this for the same character. It was such an interesting (read: tortuous) journey to go through, to watch the dynamics that unfurl among the primary and secondary characters and their choices and situations. I will say that a lot of the experience is greatly coloured by the heroine’s perspective—which is honestly not too different from ours—so the level you’re going to relate to her and her problems might surprise you.
The world building too has the same advantage for the above stated reasons. The narrator of the story is like us, the world is foreign to her, the culture is foreign to her, the people are foreign to her. She learns everything the way we likely do too, in bits and pieces and pain and agony. With lessons and experiences and confusion and revelations. However, I still feel we’ve only seen perhaps 30-40% of the world and what it is. Additionally, some part of me wonders if the heroine herself has things to reveal; whether this is something she’s aware of or unaware of is what changes the tide of the next book emotionally for the reader.
I’m pretty sure from the beginning of this book, I felt the build up of emotions that began to swirl into a tornado of anger, pain and disbelief as the book went on. At one point, I shook my Kindle and went “WHAT’S HAPPENING”. Of course, the Kindle stayed true to its abilities and revealed nothing, so I went to the author and asked the same thing. She laughed and told me she hoped I enjoyed the second half of the book.
*stares blankly at a wall*
To say the second half of the book wrecked me emotionally is not saying enough. I explained to the author that she should get me a blood pressure machine with how much I stressed over her book and guess what she said?
She told me postage would be wild.
*unhinged cackle*
I quote this incident to you to highlight that you can expect this to be EXACTLY what happens in the book. You’re drowning in overwhelm, but the characters will only laugh at the face of your pain and say you haven’t seen anything yet. Or they’ll crack a very ill-timed joke that just might endear you to them. But either way it’s a set-up for more pain.
I’ve never gone screaming into an author’s DMs saying “I KNEW IT!”. From this day forward, I can’t that anymore. Because I did. Very loudly.
Is this my “Eureka!” moment? Is there only insanity after this? Maybe tomorrow I’ll be talking to a pigeon. Who knows?
Like I said, nothing to worry about.
I have a special message for the ARC readers who are starting A House of Cloaks and Daggers. I just want to say, welcome! We’re extremely pleased to have you join us. We may have lost our sanity about halfway into the book, but we have cookies if you’d like some and we’re mostly known to share. So wear your gold dresses and sharp daggers and be ready to lose your mind.
Also to anyone who sees this review, please ensure if I ever have a headstone or an auto-biography, it says “Stressed but Blessed.” and underneath P.S.: Loren Little, I’m looking at you for the former.
Five stars! The book isn’t perfect. But it was extremely immersive, filled with pain, humour and magic. I expect only worse in book two. Let’s go, Loren!
A big shout out and thank you to the author for providing me with a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review!
Disclaimer: No one’s hair was pulled out during the course of the time this book was read. Though I came close.
This review contains mentions of headstones, cortisol levels, blood pressure machines and cookies. If any of this is enticing, confusing or stressful; then good. You have been warned of what the book will make you feel.
Proceed with caution.
Still here?
Your funeral. (HA! Early headstone reference!)
If I could review this book in one sentence it would be: “The stress was stressing.”
Having gotten that poignant phrase out of the way, I’d like to talk a little about what drew me to A House of Cloaks and Daggers. If you haven’t checked out the author’s threads/Instagram page, I would recommend you do so immediately. Why? Firstly, thank you for asking. Secondly, it’s because the author has the sweetest little posts about her conversations with her MMC. I think I sank down the rabbit hole of those posts and laughed so hard I couldn’t imagine not walking down the path of curiosity for AHoCaD, and so that’s what I did. I obsessed over the blurb, stalked the author’s page a lot and nearly passed out when this baby landed in my Kindle.
But of course, being an adult means you know you have responsibilities and that meant I had to read AHoCaD a little later than I had initially planned. But the moment I sank into it, I straight up drowned.
The book should’ve come with a warning, honestly.
The writing, according to me, is the biggest tool of deception the author has wielded against us. With magic and mayhem, we’re lead straight into madness, secrets and chaos. The narration of the story happens primarily in the FMC’s perspective and that adds a great deal of tension, pain and mystery to the story and the writing highlights all these elements unapologetically.
Loren describes an absolutely beautiful vision for us, before ripping it away so we face the harsh reality of the price of being in the world she has crafted. It’s honestly lovely. Nothing to worry about at all.
The pace of the book begins almost leisurely. Lazily. Just a bookworm. In a bookstore. Doing book things. But, before you know it, there’s about seven things happening at the same time; drawing your attention in five different directions. The thing is, you know you have questions, but you don’t have time to think of the questions you have; because the moment you’re in your mind wondering about something, four new things have happened on page. Books have always meant to remove you from reality and I think Loren’s book does exactly that at every turn; keeping you immersed in its story until you suddenly surface realizing you’ve finished the book. I have no way to explain the pace, as much as I can say it’s like what happens when you actually experience something. You don’t realize the time that goes by until after.
I remember very well I began to cry at one point because of something happening on scene and looked down accidentally and saw that I was at the 50% mark. To say the least, it came as a real shock because it felt like I’d just started the book. Don’t worry about the crying part though. Another thing to not worry about at all.
Who says readers don’t live dangerously? I’d like to submit my cortisol and adrenaline levels from the two days I read AHoCaD as evidence to my stressful life. Thank you, your Honour.
Circling back.
There was something I found quite interesting about the FMC in this book, or perhaps it’s the way Loren has written her. I enjoyed the consistency to her character that the author has maintained throughout with regard to one particular thing—that of course I can’t reveal because it’s a spoiler—but would’ve been such a great addition to speak about in this review. The characters in any story make up the most vital part of it. Either you love them, hate them, relate to them or want to protect them. It’s not often though that you feel most of this for the same character. It was such an interesting (read: tortuous) journey to go through, to watch the dynamics that unfurl among the primary and secondary characters and their choices and situations. I will say that a lot of the experience is greatly coloured by the heroine’s perspective—which is honestly not too different from ours—so the level you’re going to relate to her and her problems might surprise you.
The world building too has the same advantage for the above stated reasons. The narrator of the story is like us, the world is foreign to her, the culture is foreign to her, the people are foreign to her. She learns everything the way we likely do too, in bits and pieces and pain and agony. With lessons and experiences and confusion and revelations. However, I still feel we’ve only seen perhaps 30-40% of the world and what it is. Additionally, some part of me wonders if the heroine herself has things to reveal; whether this is something she’s aware of or unaware of is what changes the tide of the next book emotionally for the reader.
I’m pretty sure from the beginning of this book, I felt the build up of emotions that began to swirl into a tornado of anger, pain and disbelief as the book went on. At one point, I shook my Kindle and went “WHAT’S HAPPENING”. Of course, the Kindle stayed true to its abilities and revealed nothing, so I went to the author and asked the same thing. She laughed and told me she hoped I enjoyed the second half of the book.
*stares blankly at a wall*
To say the second half of the book wrecked me emotionally is not saying enough. I explained to the author that she should get me a blood pressure machine with how much I stressed over her book and guess what she said?
She told me postage would be wild.
*unhinged cackle*
I quote this incident to you to highlight that you can expect this to be EXACTLY what happens in the book. You’re drowning in overwhelm, but the characters will only laugh at the face of your pain and say you haven’t seen anything yet. Or they’ll crack a very ill-timed joke that just might endear you to them. But either way it’s a set-up for more pain.
I’ve never gone screaming into an author’s DMs saying “I KNEW IT!”. From this day forward, I can’t that anymore. Because I did. Very loudly.
Is this my “Eureka!” moment? Is there only insanity after this? Maybe tomorrow I’ll be talking to a pigeon. Who knows?
Like I said, nothing to worry about.
I have a special message for the ARC readers who are starting A House of Cloaks and Daggers. I just want to say, welcome! We’re extremely pleased to have you join us. We may have lost our sanity about halfway into the book, but we have cookies if you’d like some and we’re mostly known to share. So wear your gold dresses and sharp daggers and be ready to lose your mind.
Also to anyone who sees this review, please ensure if I ever have a headstone or an auto-biography, it says “Stressed but Blessed.” and underneath P.S.: Loren Little, I’m looking at you for the former.
Five stars! The book isn’t perfect. But it was extremely immersive, filled with pain, humour and magic. I expect only worse in book two. Let’s go, Loren!
November 14, 2024
Oh my god!! Loren what have you done to me??
This was such a crazy, wild ride that I absolutely loved every second of. I adored this beautiful world and characters and cannot wait to continue on this journey. Thankyou so much Loren for allowing me to ARC read your baby ❤️
Let’s start with the characters. I loved Aura! She was such a badass and didn’t just go along with everything happening without reservations. I appreciated that she questioned everything and didn’t just take it on the chin. It made her character so relatable and realistic, and created a connection between me and the character as I saw myself in her. She wanted to protect her family and was willing to do absolutely anything to achieve this. Her values and morals were so strong and what drove her. I really just loved everything about her.
As for Wren, I was immediately drawn to him. I loved his mystique, and also the tension and banter he kept with Aura. You could see he was hiding something and really liked her, but wasn’t willing to open up to her just yet. I literally fell in love with him and was and still am rooting for him! I started to slowly guess what was going on with him from about halfway through, and just felt so sad that he had to jeopardise parts of himself and his emotions to protect Aura. He really is just a big softie who is so in love with Aura and I ate up every single one of their interactions.
I always thought something was up with Lucais and thought he was just too quiet. I actually disliked all their tension and interactions, but it only made the interactions and banter between Wren and Aura that much better!
The writing and the plot were also just amazing! I actually cannot believe this is Loren’s debut because the writing is so breathtaking and beautiful. The way things were described were so vivid and I just appreciated the style of writing so much. I enjoyed the pace of the plot and how it started out slow then increased in pace to mimic the character’s feelings and emotions.
Overall, I genuinely believe this is the first ARC I have actually enjoyed so much! I honestly cannot wait to read more of Loren’s work as she just has the ability to create a beautiful world with amazing characters.
This was such a crazy, wild ride that I absolutely loved every second of. I adored this beautiful world and characters and cannot wait to continue on this journey. Thankyou so much Loren for allowing me to ARC read your baby ❤️
Let’s start with the characters. I loved Aura! She was such a badass and didn’t just go along with everything happening without reservations. I appreciated that she questioned everything and didn’t just take it on the chin. It made her character so relatable and realistic, and created a connection between me and the character as I saw myself in her. She wanted to protect her family and was willing to do absolutely anything to achieve this. Her values and morals were so strong and what drove her. I really just loved everything about her.
As for Wren, I was immediately drawn to him. I loved his mystique, and also the tension and banter he kept with Aura. You could see he was hiding something and really liked her, but wasn’t willing to open up to her just yet. I literally fell in love with him and was and still am rooting for him! I started to slowly guess what was going on with him from about halfway through, and just felt so sad that he had to jeopardise parts of himself and his emotions to protect Aura. He really is just a big softie who is so in love with Aura and I ate up every single one of their interactions.
I always thought something was up with Lucais and thought he was just too quiet. I actually disliked all their tension and interactions, but it only made the interactions and banter between Wren and Aura that much better!
The writing and the plot were also just amazing! I actually cannot believe this is Loren’s debut because the writing is so breathtaking and beautiful. The way things were described were so vivid and I just appreciated the style of writing so much. I enjoyed the pace of the plot and how it started out slow then increased in pace to mimic the character’s feelings and emotions.
Overall, I genuinely believe this is the first ARC I have actually enjoyed so much! I honestly cannot wait to read more of Loren’s work as she just has the ability to create a beautiful world with amazing characters.
June 18, 2025
3.75 (rounded up to 4) ❤️
This was such an enjoyable read! The concept hooked me straight away - fae, secrets, danger, a heroine torn between two worlds? Say no more. I was fully in.
I really loved Auralia as the main character. She felt like a strong, layered FMC with the kind of emotional depth that makes you root for her even when she’s making questionable choices. There were moments her motivations felt a bit murky, but overall, I liked being in her head.
‘Wren’ or 𝐿𝓊𝒸𝒶𝒾𝓈 😉 was a standout - cocky, chaotic, and impossible not to like. I also unexpectedly loved Mortega! ‘Lucais’ (IYKYK) was interesting too, though I wish we got a bit more time to sit with his character arc.
The twist near the end involving the character dynamics was bold and really interesting, though I’ll admit it got a bit confusing in execution (for me). There were some parts of the story that felt underdeveloped or rushed, but honestly, I was still vibing with the plot and the world enough that it didn’t ruin the experience.
Definitely worth a read if you’re into morally grey fae, high-stakes secrets and heroines who fight for what (and who) they believe in.
This was such an enjoyable read! The concept hooked me straight away - fae, secrets, danger, a heroine torn between two worlds? Say no more. I was fully in.
I really loved Auralia as the main character. She felt like a strong, layered FMC with the kind of emotional depth that makes you root for her even when she’s making questionable choices. There were moments her motivations felt a bit murky, but overall, I liked being in her head.
‘Wren’ or 𝐿𝓊𝒸𝒶𝒾𝓈 😉 was a standout - cocky, chaotic, and impossible not to like. I also unexpectedly loved Mortega! ‘Lucais’ (IYKYK) was interesting too, though I wish we got a bit more time to sit with his character arc.
The twist near the end involving the character dynamics was bold and really interesting, though I’ll admit it got a bit confusing in execution (for me). There were some parts of the story that felt underdeveloped or rushed, but honestly, I was still vibing with the plot and the world enough that it didn’t ruin the experience.
Definitely worth a read if you’re into morally grey fae, high-stakes secrets and heroines who fight for what (and who) they believe in.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 13, 2024
*I was granted the honour of an ARC*
Spoiler-free review
This book scratched the itch I didn’t thought I needed. The FMC is a no-bullshit wanted person and strong.
The MMC is… well… you will have to read it. No words to describe him.
It is dark and clearly the beginning of an epic story. I can’t wait until part 2!
Spoiler review
This book is unlike any other book I have read. The writing style (finally curse words we know and use) and the use of chapters (the waiting on Wren, the names of the chapters…). Oh I was rooting for Fake Wren sooooo hard that I got mad with the fake Lucais scenes… we were robbed in this book for a good moment between the MC’s.
And the power unleashing?! Do we finally have a shadow mommy?
Not a 5 starts because I honestly thought the end could have been stretched a bit longer? I mean. We see zilch of her power and at the end she suddenly can disappear?
Also the bomb about her father was too short. I needed an atomic bomb.
I am STOKED for part 2.
Spoiler-free review
This book scratched the itch I didn’t thought I needed. The FMC is a no-bullshit wanted person and strong.
The MMC is… well… you will have to read it. No words to describe him.
It is dark and clearly the beginning of an epic story. I can’t wait until part 2!
Spoiler review
This book is unlike any other book I have read. The writing style (finally curse words we know and use) and the use of chapters (the waiting on Wren, the names of the chapters…). Oh I was rooting for Fake Wren sooooo hard that I got mad with the fake Lucais scenes… we were robbed in this book for a good moment between the MC’s.
And the power unleashing?! Do we finally have a shadow mommy?
Not a 5 starts because I honestly thought the end could have been stretched a bit longer? I mean. We see zilch of her power and at the end she suddenly can disappear?
Also the bomb about her father was too short. I needed an atomic bomb.
I am STOKED for part 2.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 12, 2025
This is a really good debut novel! I was entertained and I had fun trying to decipher the mystery by using context clues. It reminded me a lot of ACOTAR! There are fae, humans, merfolk, courts, war, romance, some good spice, and a cool magic system. I can’t wait to read the next book and see how Loren grows as an author!
January 3, 2025
This was epic!!! Loved it the twist at the end was crazy?!
Loved this twist on Fae’s really interesting and the story was so gripping can’t wait for the next book to come out!! Absolute great romantasy!!
Loved this twist on Fae’s really interesting and the story was so gripping can’t wait for the next book to come out!! Absolute great romantasy!!
October 26, 2024
“Somehow, I doubted that, although I appreciated the comparison to a dog. And not just any dog, either. In my mind, he was a flea-ridden mongrel with a penchant for snapping at people who tried to feed him.
I hope he starves to death.”
Gosh, what a debut by Loren! This book has it all! You have to jump on this bandwagon ASAP!
It has beautiful, elaborate & in depth world building, delicious banter, some steamy scenes, female rage, possessive fae men, magical places, plot twists and a cliffhanger!
I absolutely love Aura. Aura is such a sassy thing, she had me giggling away. The MMC is such a cocky bastard that you can’t help but roll your eyes at or smile at. Or both.
The end few chapters had me in a chokehold! What a cliffhanger! I have so many unanswered questions!
I am so invested in this story & am officially obsessed with Loren! Her writing style is phenomenal!
Thank you Loren for allowing me to be part of your street team & allowing me to receive an ARC. I can’t wait to read the next book!
I hope he starves to death.”
Gosh, what a debut by Loren! This book has it all! You have to jump on this bandwagon ASAP!
It has beautiful, elaborate & in depth world building, delicious banter, some steamy scenes, female rage, possessive fae men, magical places, plot twists and a cliffhanger!
I absolutely love Aura. Aura is such a sassy thing, she had me giggling away. The MMC is such a cocky bastard that you can’t help but roll your eyes at or smile at. Or both.
The end few chapters had me in a chokehold! What a cliffhanger! I have so many unanswered questions!
I am so invested in this story & am officially obsessed with Loren! Her writing style is phenomenal!
Thank you Loren for allowing me to be part of your street team & allowing me to receive an ARC. I can’t wait to read the next book!
November 3, 2024
This Book!! I absolutely loved Loren Littles take on the Fae, the world they live in and the way that works with the human world. The lore throughout the book was mind blowing and I can’t wait for more I feel like we are just scratching the surface.
The characters!! Our MMC I have loved him since I started hearing about him! His personality is everything I want and need! The energy he puts off is so good and his banter with our FMC you couldn’t ask for more. Our FMC is so relatable! I love her development through this book and how she starts to come into herself more as the book continues. The relationship between these 2 is nothing but fire!
The side characters (that feels mean to say) are still so stand out even if they aren’t our MC’s they have their own place, a developed history and just as much personality as our MC’s!
The story keeps you engaged throughout the book with some twists to keep you on the edge of your seat, some moments that will make you squeal or steal your breathe away and then moments when you feel like you might just want to throttle the book you are holding but they are all so worth it!
This book left me wanting so much more!!! I cannot wait to read more from this world or anything Loren writes really!
The characters!! Our MMC I have loved him since I started hearing about him! His personality is everything I want and need! The energy he puts off is so good and his banter with our FMC you couldn’t ask for more. Our FMC is so relatable! I love her development through this book and how she starts to come into herself more as the book continues. The relationship between these 2 is nothing but fire!
The side characters (that feels mean to say) are still so stand out even if they aren’t our MC’s they have their own place, a developed history and just as much personality as our MC’s!
The story keeps you engaged throughout the book with some twists to keep you on the edge of your seat, some moments that will make you squeal or steal your breathe away and then moments when you feel like you might just want to throttle the book you are holding but they are all so worth it!
This book left me wanting so much more!!! I cannot wait to read more from this world or anything Loren writes really!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 340 reviews