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Never List #1
The Never List
Jede Adlige würde lügen, betrügen oder stehlen, um eine Chance zu haben, als Partnerin aller vier mächtigen, magiebegabten Prinzen des Reiches auserwählt zu werden. Weder Ablehnung oder (schlimmer noch!) ein Platz auf der Never List – einer königlichen Einberufung mit einem fast sicheren Todesurteil – können sie aufhalten.
Einmal jährlich veranstalten die Prinzen, die Legenden des Chaos, daher ein rauschendes Fest: einen Maskenball voller Magie und Geheimnisse, auf dem sie jene Eine suchen, die stark genug ist, ihre vereinten Kräfte zu bändigen.
Doch die Legenden sind nicht das, was Rylee Gray begehrt. Sie verfolgt ihre eigene Mission: Ein Jahr zuvor verschwand ihre Schwester Erin auf eben jenem Ball und Rylee ist fest entschlossen, sie zu finden.
Rylee weiß, dass sie den Palast infiltrieren muss, um die Geheimnisse der Never List zu lüften und Erin nach Hause zu bringen. Es gibt nur ein Problem: Bevor sie das Schicksal ihrer Schwester in dem magisch bewachten Palast herausfinden kann, wird Rylee als potenzielle Gefährtin der Legenden ausgewählt.
Es dauert nicht lange, da findet sie sich im Zentrum eines gefährlichen Spiels wieder. Denn auserwählt von den vier attraktiven Prinzen, die absolut alles dafür tun werden, ihre Macht zu mehren, darf sie sich keinerlei Fehler erlauben. Und nun muss sie entscheiden, ob sie diesen vier Männern – und ihrem Herzen – vertrauen kann oder ob sie in dieser Welt aus Macht und Intrigen untergehen wird.
Eine Frau mit der Mission, ihre Schwester zu retten – kann sie ihr Herz vor den vier machthungrigen Prinzen des Chaos schützen?
Andererseits ... Warum sich für einen Prinzen entscheiden, wenn man sie alle haben kann?
Einmal jährlich veranstalten die Prinzen, die Legenden des Chaos, daher ein rauschendes Fest: einen Maskenball voller Magie und Geheimnisse, auf dem sie jene Eine suchen, die stark genug ist, ihre vereinten Kräfte zu bändigen.
Doch die Legenden sind nicht das, was Rylee Gray begehrt. Sie verfolgt ihre eigene Mission: Ein Jahr zuvor verschwand ihre Schwester Erin auf eben jenem Ball und Rylee ist fest entschlossen, sie zu finden.
Rylee weiß, dass sie den Palast infiltrieren muss, um die Geheimnisse der Never List zu lüften und Erin nach Hause zu bringen. Es gibt nur ein Problem: Bevor sie das Schicksal ihrer Schwester in dem magisch bewachten Palast herausfinden kann, wird Rylee als potenzielle Gefährtin der Legenden ausgewählt.
Es dauert nicht lange, da findet sie sich im Zentrum eines gefährlichen Spiels wieder. Denn auserwählt von den vier attraktiven Prinzen, die absolut alles dafür tun werden, ihre Macht zu mehren, darf sie sich keinerlei Fehler erlauben. Und nun muss sie entscheiden, ob sie diesen vier Männern – und ihrem Herzen – vertrauen kann oder ob sie in dieser Welt aus Macht und Intrigen untergehen wird.
Eine Frau mit der Mission, ihre Schwester zu retten – kann sie ihr Herz vor den vier machthungrigen Prinzen des Chaos schützen?
Andererseits ... Warum sich für einen Prinzen entscheiden, wenn man sie alle haben kann?
512 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 1, 2025
2013 people are currently reading
35472 people want to read
About the author
Jade Presley
10 books686 followersJade Presley is a pen name created to write romantasy stories that pair rich world building with characters that will make you blush and leave you thirsting for more. When not writing, I’m going on epic quests during game night or hanging with my family and Irish Wolfhound in my mountain home.
source: Amazon
source: Amazon
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,856 reviews
March 14, 2025
You know when you want a book that you can just eat right up, no questions asked? This is that book.
The Never List is incredibly fast moving and reminiscent of the likes of Broken Bonds by J Bree, with our main gal being the one tying a group of guys together. With her participating in trials throughout, it’s only natural to root for her, and for the pages to keep on turning.
Do be wary that this one leans more towards the “all smut, little substance” side of things - I would’ve loved for things within the trial plot to be just a liiiiittle more fleshed out, as there were large gaps of time skipped and such. But while this whirlwind felt a smidge ridiculous at times, there was something weirdly addictive about it too. For me it’s definitely the sort you have to be in the mood for, but would prove the exact sort of bingeable story if it hits right.
The Never List is certainly a fun one, and I’d be intrigued to read the sequel when it comes!
Thank you to the publisher for an e-copy of this book via Netgalley!
The Never List is incredibly fast moving and reminiscent of the likes of Broken Bonds by J Bree, with our main gal being the one tying a group of guys together. With her participating in trials throughout, it’s only natural to root for her, and for the pages to keep on turning.
Do be wary that this one leans more towards the “all smut, little substance” side of things - I would’ve loved for things within the trial plot to be just a liiiiittle more fleshed out, as there were large gaps of time skipped and such. But while this whirlwind felt a smidge ridiculous at times, there was something weirdly addictive about it too. For me it’s definitely the sort you have to be in the mood for, but would prove the exact sort of bingeable story if it hits right.
The Never List is certainly a fun one, and I’d be intrigued to read the sequel when it comes!
Thank you to the publisher for an e-copy of this book via Netgalley!
April 8, 2025
Release Day!!✨
Calling all my why choose girlies to the front!
“To the readers who always struggle to pick a favorite book boyfriend. Don’t worry—here, you’ll never have to choose. It’s okay to love them all.”
That dedication says it all—because whew, I truly couldn’t pick a favorite if I tried ♾️⭐️.
This why choose romantasy gave me everything I wanted and more 💋✨.
We follow Rylee, who’s at the bottom of the totem pole in a strict class system ⬇️🏰. She’s secretive, got a sharp edge, and is hiding more than one truth 👀. On top of all that? She has a missing sister to find 🕵🏽♀️, and then boom—she’s thrust into a Choosing Ceremony that flips her world upside down ⚡️. Now, she has to capture the hearts of the Legends, all while protecting her secrets and continuing her search for her sister. Action-packed from start to finish ⚔️!
Now let’s talk about the Legends of Chaos 🔥—they are:
• The Dreamer
• The Mind
• The Player
• The Nightmare
Sons of ruthless kings and powerful goddesses 👑, these men are everything. Each one brought something different to the table, and yes—I loved them ALL (no notes) 💫🥵.
I also adored Mirren, who acted as the much-needed mother figure for both Rylee and the guys 🤍. Even though she was considered “the help” by the kings, she played such a key role and added real warmth to the story.
And let’s not forget the spice—we’re talking a solid 5🌶️, but it never overpowered the plot, which stayed strong the entire way through 📖✨.
That ENDING??
Had me SLINGING my Kindle across the room 😤📱💥. I’m so mad I have to wait for book 2 because this one delivered.
Infinity stars for this chaotic, romantic, heart-racing ride ♾️⭐️♾️⭐️♾️.
*Thank you Red Tower and Entangled Publishing for the arc*
Calling all my why choose girlies to the front!
“To the readers who always struggle to pick a favorite book boyfriend. Don’t worry—here, you’ll never have to choose. It’s okay to love them all.”
That dedication says it all—because whew, I truly couldn’t pick a favorite if I tried ♾️⭐️.
This why choose romantasy gave me everything I wanted and more 💋✨.
We follow Rylee, who’s at the bottom of the totem pole in a strict class system ⬇️🏰. She’s secretive, got a sharp edge, and is hiding more than one truth 👀. On top of all that? She has a missing sister to find 🕵🏽♀️, and then boom—she’s thrust into a Choosing Ceremony that flips her world upside down ⚡️. Now, she has to capture the hearts of the Legends, all while protecting her secrets and continuing her search for her sister. Action-packed from start to finish ⚔️!
Now let’s talk about the Legends of Chaos 🔥—they are:
• The Dreamer
• The Mind
• The Player
• The Nightmare
Sons of ruthless kings and powerful goddesses 👑, these men are everything. Each one brought something different to the table, and yes—I loved them ALL (no notes) 💫🥵.
I also adored Mirren, who acted as the much-needed mother figure for both Rylee and the guys 🤍. Even though she was considered “the help” by the kings, she played such a key role and added real warmth to the story.
And let’s not forget the spice—we’re talking a solid 5🌶️, but it never overpowered the plot, which stayed strong the entire way through 📖✨.
That ENDING??
Had me SLINGING my Kindle across the room 😤📱💥. I’m so mad I have to wait for book 2 because this one delivered.
Infinity stars for this chaotic, romantic, heart-racing ride ♾️⭐️♾️⭐️♾️.
*Thank you Red Tower and Entangled Publishing for the arc*
June 15, 2025
3.5 stars! Love a why choose fantasy romance with excellent world-building. The Never List had me immediately hooked, and I love how the author immediately jumped into the action. The world-building was excellent—straight to the point with more details expanded upon as Rylee learns more about royal society. I really enjoyed how there was a clear cut reason as to why the four Legends (who reminded me of the heirs in Zodiac Academy) needed a mate to share. Plus the brewing war, politics, and spark of a rebellion added intriguing depth to the story.
I knew going into this book that it would be a spicier romantasy (that's why I picked it up lol), but there was so much potential for more plot and action in the world the author set up. And based on the first 130 or so pages, it seemed like there would be higher stakes. But once Rylee began spending time with the Legends, the pacing slowed down so much, and the spice overtook the entire story. I also felt like Rylee had a significantly stronger connection to Kal and Jax, while her relationship with Axl and Pierce felt insta-lovey.
And certain things, especially the ending, felt WAY too easy for the characters. It seemed like in a world with unrest brewing from all sides + Rylee harboring a million secrets, there should've been more conflict in all facets (i.e. more rebel conflicts, arguments when Rylee revealed who she was, etc). Though I definitely want to read the next one to see how the rest of the story plays out!
I knew going into this book that it would be a spicier romantasy (that's why I picked it up lol), but there was so much potential for more plot and action in the world the author set up. And based on the first 130 or so pages, it seemed like there would be higher stakes. But once Rylee began spending time with the Legends, the pacing slowed down so much, and the spice overtook the entire story. I also felt like Rylee had a significantly stronger connection to Kal and Jax, while her relationship with Axl and Pierce felt insta-lovey.
And certain things, especially the ending, felt WAY too easy for the characters. It seemed like in a world with unrest brewing from all sides + Rylee harboring a million secrets, there should've been more conflict in all facets (i.e. more rebel conflicts, arguments when Rylee revealed who she was, etc). Though I definitely want to read the next one to see how the rest of the story plays out!
September 9, 2025
4.5 ★
“I had to choose you. I needed to choose you. There was no stopping it. And the second the words came out of my mouth, I knew I’d damned us.”
i was not expecting to enjoy this as much as i did cause omfg i was living for the romances?? there’s 4 mmc’s: Kal, Axl, Jax and Pierce who are the immortal princes of Lumathyst and each possess their own abilities. Kal (strength and flight), Axl (control over water), Jax (manipulating emotions) and Pierce (mindreading). the fmc Rylee wants to find her sister, so her friends push her to join a party where the princes will be attending looking for candidates to be their mate. she thinks they’ll be the only ones able to help her since she’s got secrets of her own that don’t allow her to just roam around searching freely. despite her plans to reject them at the end, things don’t go the way she wants.
“The minute I heard your voice, the minute I sensed your emotions, you felt like mine.”
the main draw for me was 100% the romances. i loved how the author split up the book into sections, we get Rylee having individual time with each of the men while in their territories as she gets to know both them and how they are as rulers more. it’s hard for me to choose a favorite, i seriously loved everyone equally but i have a soft spot for Pierce. my only grievance was some of the nicknames but the steam in this book also had me on the floor.. Rylee had nothing to complain about and neither did i cause damn. 😮💨 Rylee never gave up on anything that she wanted and she’s also really committed and loyal to her men. the plot itself was predictable when it came to her sister tho, but in regard to the Athanry and the goddesses? i was at the edge of my seat. i need the next one IMMEDIATELY actually!!
“You know I love to watch,” he says when I whimper at his lack of contact. “Show me how good you can fuck my friends.”
“I had to choose you. I needed to choose you. There was no stopping it. And the second the words came out of my mouth, I knew I’d damned us.”
i was not expecting to enjoy this as much as i did cause omfg i was living for the romances?? there’s 4 mmc’s: Kal, Axl, Jax and Pierce who are the immortal princes of Lumathyst and each possess their own abilities. Kal (strength and flight), Axl (control over water), Jax (manipulating emotions) and Pierce (mindreading). the fmc Rylee wants to find her sister, so her friends push her to join a party where the princes will be attending looking for candidates to be their mate. she thinks they’ll be the only ones able to help her since she’s got secrets of her own that don’t allow her to just roam around searching freely. despite her plans to reject them at the end, things don’t go the way she wants.
“The minute I heard your voice, the minute I sensed your emotions, you felt like mine.”
the main draw for me was 100% the romances. i loved how the author split up the book into sections, we get Rylee having individual time with each of the men while in their territories as she gets to know both them and how they are as rulers more. it’s hard for me to choose a favorite, i seriously loved everyone equally but i have a soft spot for Pierce. my only grievance was some of the nicknames but the steam in this book also had me on the floor.. Rylee had nothing to complain about and neither did i cause damn. 😮💨 Rylee never gave up on anything that she wanted and she’s also really committed and loyal to her men. the plot itself was predictable when it came to her sister tho, but in regard to the Athanry and the goddesses? i was at the edge of my seat. i need the next one IMMEDIATELY actually!!
“You know I love to watch,” he says when I whimper at his lack of contact. “Show me how good you can fuck my friends.”
June 23, 2025
I feel dumber for having read this. I have so many issues with this book.
You know, I was really feeling myself for that first 15%. I thought this would be a slam dunk. We meet Jax (one of the MCs) at a masquerade (I go psycho for a masquerade), and him and Rylee have such good chemistry. I really thought this would be a good time. But boy was I wrong.
I'm gonna try to keep this organized.
I liked Jax at the beginning. In fact, he's the only MC I liked at all. We meet him in the beginning, but then see so little of him. This weird mating-ritual thing is structured so that Rylee has a month with every guy. This is just the worst way to do a why-choose. It takes all the fun out of it. Basically, she sees the guy, they have one or two conversations, they have sex, and BAM, it's 3 weeks later. Then it's on to the next guy and they do it all over again. It's basically an insta-love nightmare. It really puts the why in why-choose.
All the guys are boring. Even though I liked Jax in the beginning, by the end he was like the rest of them. They have no discernible personalities. They are basically just penises for Rylee to fawn over. There is no angst. There is no fun. She is kinda snarky one time and that's all it takes for them to be obsessed with her.
For a character who is supposedly about 40 (because they all age really slowly after 21), she sure acts like she's 14. They all praise her for being smart and brave (as they so often do in romantasies) but she's not really doing anything. She's making basic-ass conclusions and they give her a round of applause. Like, damn, is that what passes for smart in this world? She can add 1+1 and now she's fucking Einstein?
And the seduction scenes were just horrible. I liked it better in the beginning of the book when she wasn't trying so hard. Now she's wearing fishnets and pole dancing. What the hell is going on?
And don't get my started on the politics. The WORST part of this book. I could make a whole section on just this. In fact, I will.
Exhibit A: The Rebels
In this world, there are low, middle, and high class people. And Rylee is the lowest of the low. Part of "The Never List." Basically a slave. She is also an illegal demi, meaning she has magical powers. She hates the kings. Supposedly. And she hates the caste system. Supposedly. Due to her past experiences as a victim of this system, we should be like yeah fuck oppression. Right?.. Wrong.
You see, there are these rebels. And in order to make the four MCs sympathetic, the author decided, as they so often do, to just make these rebels indiscriminately murder innocent people. So, no, we don't have to get into the issue of forced labor, controlled movements, or subjugation, nooooooo. We can just say "KILL PEOPLE BAD! PRINCES GOOD!" Why get into the nitty gritty? No need for moral quandary. Let's just make the demis/rebels attack fishing villages! Like, why even include rebels in here? How the fuck is that furthering a cause?
⚠️ Trigger warning: Rape/assault
Exhibit B: The Kings
WTFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFF sort of prima nocta shit is this. There were five girls who were chosen to be "potentials" (potential chosen mates) before Rylee was chosen. Supposedly every girl is "tested" by the four kings (the fathers of the MCs) after they are chosen by the princes. The girl's test is basically to have sex with the kings. Rylee repeatedly says no but is assaulted by Jax's father and during this, the boys are wondering why they can't hear any screaming. Like, they know that this happens every time!
Don't pretend this is consensual, these girls don't have a choice! People who say no to the kings don't survive. Soooooo those girls were raped. AM I MISSING SOMETHING? Like, if you can't say no then you can't say yes.
And apparently some of the kings are supposed to be "alright"? Like noooo murder is bad, no one should murder the kings. NO!! THESE ARE PEOPLE WHO ASSAULTED YOU AND HAVE CONTINUALLY OPPRESSED YOUR PEOPLE. WTF IS GOING ON HERE!?
And boo fucking hoo to the poor princes because everyone just wants them for their money and prestige. I swear if I have to read about her pitying these rich, hot gazillionaires again because girls only wanted to have sex with them, I'm gonna scream. YOU HAVE A LOT BIGGER ISSUES TO DEAL WITH. How about the complete subjugation and murder of your people? I think THOSE are the people we should be pitying here.
Overall, don't waste your time. The Never List is not worth it.
── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──
Pre-read *⁀➷
I think I’m gonna like this 😈
You know, I was really feeling myself for that first 15%. I thought this would be a slam dunk. We meet Jax (one of the MCs) at a masquerade (I go psycho for a masquerade), and him and Rylee have such good chemistry. I really thought this would be a good time. But boy was I wrong.
I'm gonna try to keep this organized.
I liked Jax at the beginning. In fact, he's the only MC I liked at all. We meet him in the beginning, but then see so little of him. This weird mating-ritual thing is structured so that Rylee has a month with every guy. This is just the worst way to do a why-choose. It takes all the fun out of it. Basically, she sees the guy, they have one or two conversations, they have sex, and BAM, it's 3 weeks later. Then it's on to the next guy and they do it all over again. It's basically an insta-love nightmare. It really puts the why in why-choose.
All the guys are boring. Even though I liked Jax in the beginning, by the end he was like the rest of them. They have no discernible personalities. They are basically just penises for Rylee to fawn over. There is no angst. There is no fun. She is kinda snarky one time and that's all it takes for them to be obsessed with her.
For a character who is supposedly about 40 (because they all age really slowly after 21), she sure acts like she's 14. They all praise her for being smart and brave (as they so often do in romantasies) but she's not really doing anything. She's making basic-ass conclusions and they give her a round of applause. Like, damn, is that what passes for smart in this world? She can add 1+1 and now she's fucking Einstein?
And the seduction scenes were just horrible. I liked it better in the beginning of the book when she wasn't trying so hard. Now she's wearing fishnets and pole dancing. What the hell is going on?
And don't get my started on the politics. The WORST part of this book. I could make a whole section on just this. In fact, I will.
Exhibit A: The Rebels
In this world, there are low, middle, and high class people. And Rylee is the lowest of the low. Part of "The Never List." Basically a slave. She is also an illegal demi, meaning she has magical powers. She hates the kings. Supposedly. And she hates the caste system. Supposedly. Due to her past experiences as a victim of this system, we should be like yeah fuck oppression. Right?.. Wrong.
You see, there are these rebels. And in order to make the four MCs sympathetic, the author decided, as they so often do, to just make these rebels indiscriminately murder innocent people. So, no, we don't have to get into the issue of forced labor, controlled movements, or subjugation, nooooooo. We can just say "KILL PEOPLE BAD! PRINCES GOOD!" Why get into the nitty gritty? No need for moral quandary. Let's just make the demis/rebels attack fishing villages! Like, why even include rebels in here? How the fuck is that furthering a cause?
⚠️ Trigger warning: Rape/assault
Exhibit B: The Kings
WTFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFF sort of prima nocta shit is this. There were five girls who were chosen to be "potentials" (potential chosen mates) before Rylee was chosen. Supposedly every girl is "tested" by the four kings (the fathers of the MCs) after they are chosen by the princes. The girl's test is basically to have sex with the kings. Rylee repeatedly says no but is assaulted by Jax's father and during this, the boys are wondering why they can't hear any screaming. Like, they know that this happens every time!
Don't pretend this is consensual, these girls don't have a choice! People who say no to the kings don't survive. Soooooo those girls were raped. AM I MISSING SOMETHING? Like, if you can't say no then you can't say yes.
And apparently some of the kings are supposed to be "alright"? Like noooo murder is bad, no one should murder the kings. NO!! THESE ARE PEOPLE WHO ASSAULTED YOU AND HAVE CONTINUALLY OPPRESSED YOUR PEOPLE. WTF IS GOING ON HERE!?
And boo fucking hoo to the poor princes because everyone just wants them for their money and prestige. I swear if I have to read about her pitying these rich, hot gazillionaires again because girls only wanted to have sex with them, I'm gonna scream. YOU HAVE A LOT BIGGER ISSUES TO DEAL WITH. How about the complete subjugation and murder of your people? I think THOSE are the people we should be pitying here.
Overall, don't waste your time. The Never List is not worth it.
── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──
Pre-read *⁀➷
I think I’m gonna like this 😈
May 19, 2025
2.5, GENEROUSLY rounded up.
This review will not be kind. If you enjoyed this book, I’m happy for you, but this was a mess. Poorly structured, inconsistent pacing, and underwhelming.
The author had vision, I will give her that. But where is the editing? With every book I read, I am convinced that Red Tower genuinely hates their authors. They care more about how the outside is going to look and how well they can market/sell the sprayed edges than they do the quality of what is inside. Give your writers better editors, I’m begging you.
In the hands of a better team, the author could have made this in to something magnificent. Instead we’re left with this mess.
A few questions:
1.) Was the plot twist at the end meant to be a shock? Because I think it was only surprising to Rylee.
2.) What was with the pitifully divided time spent between the princes? We didn’t even get to the second prince until 49% in. Then, we get less and less, and by the time we get to Jax—the prince we’ve been building tension for the whole book—the tension is resolved in the matter of a few pages. Which leads me to my next point…
3.) Why were the issues so quickly resolved? There was absolutely zero nuance in the hard spaces the plot created for conflict. Like they were just instantly resolved and BOOM, tension gone. Talk about anticlimactic. I felt like we were edged (and not very well, at that) only for no release to ever actually come.
Lastly, the audiobook narrators were… a choice. The whimpering and crying from Rylee was actually unbearable. Did we listen to any of the track back before we hit publish? Like was there someone who genuinely thought this was good? Woof.
I’m tired of poorly written romantasy books that get excused with the justification of “vibe reads” or “silly little romances.” Surely in the year of our lord 2025 we can demand better from publishers who are taking advantage of our dollars in keeping their imprints afloat.
This review will not be kind. If you enjoyed this book, I’m happy for you, but this was a mess. Poorly structured, inconsistent pacing, and underwhelming.
The author had vision, I will give her that. But where is the editing? With every book I read, I am convinced that Red Tower genuinely hates their authors. They care more about how the outside is going to look and how well they can market/sell the sprayed edges than they do the quality of what is inside. Give your writers better editors, I’m begging you.
In the hands of a better team, the author could have made this in to something magnificent. Instead we’re left with this mess.
A few questions:
1.) Was the plot twist at the end meant to be a shock? Because I think it was only surprising to Rylee.
2.) What was with the pitifully divided time spent between the princes? We didn’t even get to the second prince until 49% in. Then, we get less and less, and by the time we get to Jax—the prince we’ve been building tension for the whole book—the tension is resolved in the matter of a few pages. Which leads me to my next point…
3.) Why were the issues so quickly resolved? There was absolutely zero nuance in the hard spaces the plot created for conflict. Like they were just instantly resolved and BOOM, tension gone. Talk about anticlimactic. I felt like we were edged (and not very well, at that) only for no release to ever actually come.
Lastly, the audiobook narrators were… a choice. The whimpering and crying from Rylee was actually unbearable. Did we listen to any of the track back before we hit publish? Like was there someone who genuinely thought this was good? Woof.
I’m tired of poorly written romantasy books that get excused with the justification of “vibe reads” or “silly little romances.” Surely in the year of our lord 2025 we can demand better from publishers who are taking advantage of our dollars in keeping their imprints afloat.
April 4, 2025
If you liked bonded by thorns by Elizabeth Helen this book is for you.
There’s more spice than plot but that’s ok sometimes! Easy read and red tower clearly had an editor for this one so that made the experience way better!
There’s more spice than plot but that’s ok sometimes! Easy read and red tower clearly had an editor for this one so that made the experience way better!
April 15, 2025
Is this a good book? No. Does the writing kinda suck? Yea. Is the world building choppy af and the plot riddled with holes? Yes. Were the characters all one-dimensional with no substance? Also yes. Did I still enjoy reading this? Hell yes! 😂
Look, I’m not gonna lie and tell you this book is good. But I’m a mood reader and I was in the mood for it so I enjoyed it. Maybe any other day I wouldn’t have, but that day wasn’t today. 😅
The world building was a mess. There are cities with buildings over 300 storeys high that use elevators but they don’t have cars. They have horses and carriages but also something called velomages which are most definitely motorcycles. They have taverns but also night clubs and it took 300 pages to sate my curiosity of whether these night clubs have sound systems or a guy in the corner playing a fiddle (it was a live band of instruments).
The characters were all very one-dimensional. The MFC, Rylee, could do no wrong and easily won the hearts of all her men. There was no tension or conflict apart from a little bit from Jax but even that resolved quickly. Her big secret of being from the Ashlands and having powers, and not being able to tell her potential mates ended up being a bust too. I wanted more tension and drama, instead MMCs all fell easily for her. Too much insta-love for my liking.
The villain did his villainy things. The mystery about Rylee’s sister was pretty much set to the side because they had more “important” things to do until the very end. The subplot with the rebel group was barely explored. The action finally kicked in but the book was over before it barely started. Also we have a cliffhanger! Yet, even with all the faults, I had fun reading this lmao.
Look, I’m not gonna lie and tell you this book is good. But I’m a mood reader and I was in the mood for it so I enjoyed it. Maybe any other day I wouldn’t have, but that day wasn’t today. 😅
The world building was a mess. There are cities with buildings over 300 storeys high that use elevators but they don’t have cars. They have horses and carriages but also something called velomages which are most definitely motorcycles. They have taverns but also night clubs and it took 300 pages to sate my curiosity of whether these night clubs have sound systems or a guy in the corner playing a fiddle (it was a live band of instruments).
The characters were all very one-dimensional. The MFC, Rylee, could do no wrong and easily won the hearts of all her men. There was no tension or conflict apart from a little bit from Jax but even that resolved quickly. Her big secret of being from the Ashlands and having powers, and not being able to tell her potential mates ended up being a bust too. I wanted more tension and drama, instead MMCs all fell easily for her. Too much insta-love for my liking.
The villain did his villainy things. The mystery about Rylee’s sister was pretty much set to the side because they had more “important” things to do until the very end. The subplot with the rebel group was barely explored. The action finally kicked in but the book was over before it barely started. Also we have a cliffhanger! Yet, even with all the faults, I had fun reading this lmao.
May 15, 2025
I need book two. 😭😭😭 rtc
April 19, 2025
This started off so strong for me. I was vibing and excited for a new why choose. I enjoyed the first half, but sadly as we went on it felt just like more of same same. The guys were all perfect and fell instantly in love with her. Everything just felt so easy. The perfect man who accepts everything and says all the right things just isn't often for me I need more tension than this gave me. But the ending was good and I may continue.
April 23, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for the advanced review copy of this book.
I felt a little let down by this book. It has very off pacing on the storyline, there are pages for just one scene then two weeks are passed in just a scene break.
The characters really needed more personalization and differentiation from each other. I also couldn’t connect at all to the FMC, she was “different” just because she chose different colors than what she was told to wear and because she talked and asked questions.
The romance was not there but there was some poorly written spice scenes. The whole book just felt really depthless. It’s a lot like a popular romance series, and I understand that it is difficult to write something original with how much is already out there but it just felt like a copy and paste but with less depth and detail.
I felt a little let down by this book. It has very off pacing on the storyline, there are pages for just one scene then two weeks are passed in just a scene break.
The characters really needed more personalization and differentiation from each other. I also couldn’t connect at all to the FMC, she was “different” just because she chose different colors than what she was told to wear and because she talked and asked questions.
The romance was not there but there was some poorly written spice scenes. The whole book just felt really depthless. It’s a lot like a popular romance series, and I understand that it is difficult to write something original with how much is already out there but it just felt like a copy and paste but with less depth and detail.
April 14, 2025
It was a book I guess
July 3, 2025
IT WAS SO BAD I WANT TO GIVE YOU A ZERO, BUT I CAN’T, SO I GIVE YOU A ONE.
why??? just why?? there was no purpose to this book. None. Nada. Zilch. Save your time and money and skip this one.
why??? just why?? there was no purpose to this book. None. Nada. Zilch. Save your time and money and skip this one.
March 7, 2025
•• “𝘞𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘰𝘶𝘴 𝘱𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘢𝘭𝘴, 𝘪𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘮𝘶𝘭𝘢𝘪𝘤, 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘨𝘪𝘤 𝘰𝘯 𝘣𝘰𝘵𝘩 𝘴𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘴. 𝘉𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴? 𝘛𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘪𝘴 𝘶𝘯𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘤𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘯𝘦𝘦𝘥. 𝘛𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘪𝘴 𝘱𝘶𝘳𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘯𝘢𝘭 𝘱𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘶𝘳𝘦. 𝘛𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘪𝘴 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘰𝘴”
Well, I just found a new author and new trope to obsess over. The writing was absolutely beautiful and had me hooked by the end of the first chapter - and had me devouring 500 pages in under 24 hours.
•• “𝘐𝘵 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘶𝘮𝘦 𝘮𝘦 𝘪𝘧 𝘐 𝘭𝘦𝘵 𝘪𝘵. 𝘐𝘵 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘴𝘦𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘦 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘰 𝘢𝘣𝘴𝘰𝘭𝘶𝘵𝘦 𝘮𝘢𝘥𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘪𝘧 𝘐 𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘰𝘸 𝘪𝘵, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘸𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥𝘯’𝘵 𝘪𝘵 𝘣𝘦 𝘴𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘢 𝘴𝘸𝘦𝘦𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘺 𝘵𝘰 𝘨𝘰?”
Yeah, me and you both girl.
These characters demanded all my attention and I was unable to deny any of them. Rylee was brave and feisty, with a rebellious side that I really admired. I loved that she never ignored her feelings even as they changed and that she always listened to her heart even when it scared her.
•• “𝘐 𝘤𝘢𝘯’𝘵 𝘩𝘦𝘭𝘱 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘸𝘰𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘣𝘦 𝘴𝘰 𝘳𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘪𝘯 𝘢 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘭𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘐’𝘷𝘦 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳, 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘰𝘯𝘤𝘦, 𝘧𝘪𝘵 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘰”
And those Legends of Chaos 😮💨 Despite this being a why choose, I thought the spice to plot ratio was really well balanced. The moments with each prince had me falling in love over and over, and also had me fanning myself with my kindle. Perfect balance, perfect spice, perfect pov’s, perfect romance…𝘅𝟰.
••“𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵’𝘴 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘐 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘻𝘦: 𝘗𝘪𝘦𝘳𝘤𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘱𝘶𝘱𝘱𝘦𝘵𝘦𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨. 𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘨𝘰𝘥𝘥𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘴𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘮𝘦, 𝘐 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘺 𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘶𝘭𝘭𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴”
•• “𝘞𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘸𝘢𝘪𝘵, 𝘤𝘢𝘯’𝘵 𝘸𝘦, 𝘒𝘢𝘭?” 𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘴𝘬𝘴.
“𝘈𝘣𝘴𝘰𝘭𝘶𝘵𝘦𝘭𝘺,” 𝘒𝘢𝘭 𝘢𝘯𝘴𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘴, 𝘴𝘶𝘤𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘪𝘯 𝘢 𝘥𝘦𝘦𝘱 𝘣𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩. “𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘸𝘢𝘵𝘤𝘩 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘴𝘦 𝘵𝘸𝘰 𝘳𝘶𝘪𝘯 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘣𝘦𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘐 𝘱𝘶𝘵 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘣𝘢𝘤𝘬 𝘵𝘰𝘨𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳”
But beware, the ending will have you staring at the wall in shock and flipping the pages hoping for more. Straight to jail for that cliffhanger - I need a miracle, and answers, and revenge immediately please and thank you.
Well, I just found a new author and new trope to obsess over. The writing was absolutely beautiful and had me hooked by the end of the first chapter - and had me devouring 500 pages in under 24 hours.
•• “𝘐𝘵 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘶𝘮𝘦 𝘮𝘦 𝘪𝘧 𝘐 𝘭𝘦𝘵 𝘪𝘵. 𝘐𝘵 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘴𝘦𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘦 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘰 𝘢𝘣𝘴𝘰𝘭𝘶𝘵𝘦 𝘮𝘢𝘥𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘪𝘧 𝘐 𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘰𝘸 𝘪𝘵, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘸𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥𝘯’𝘵 𝘪𝘵 𝘣𝘦 𝘴𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘢 𝘴𝘸𝘦𝘦𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘺 𝘵𝘰 𝘨𝘰?”
Yeah, me and you both girl.
These characters demanded all my attention and I was unable to deny any of them. Rylee was brave and feisty, with a rebellious side that I really admired. I loved that she never ignored her feelings even as they changed and that she always listened to her heart even when it scared her.
•• “𝘐 𝘤𝘢𝘯’𝘵 𝘩𝘦𝘭𝘱 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘸𝘰𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘣𝘦 𝘴𝘰 𝘳𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘪𝘯 𝘢 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘭𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘐’𝘷𝘦 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳, 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘰𝘯𝘤𝘦, 𝘧𝘪𝘵 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘰”
And those Legends of Chaos 😮💨 Despite this being a why choose, I thought the spice to plot ratio was really well balanced. The moments with each prince had me falling in love over and over, and also had me fanning myself with my kindle. Perfect balance, perfect spice, perfect pov’s, perfect romance…𝘅𝟰.
••“𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵’𝘴 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘐 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘻𝘦: 𝘗𝘪𝘦𝘳𝘤𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘱𝘶𝘱𝘱𝘦𝘵𝘦𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨. 𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘨𝘰𝘥𝘥𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘴𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘮𝘦, 𝘐 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘺 𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘶𝘭𝘭𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴”
•• “𝘞𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘸𝘢𝘪𝘵, 𝘤𝘢𝘯’𝘵 𝘸𝘦, 𝘒𝘢𝘭?” 𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘴𝘬𝘴.
“𝘈𝘣𝘴𝘰𝘭𝘶𝘵𝘦𝘭𝘺,” 𝘒𝘢𝘭 𝘢𝘯𝘴𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘴, 𝘴𝘶𝘤𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘪𝘯 𝘢 𝘥𝘦𝘦𝘱 𝘣𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩. “𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘸𝘢𝘵𝘤𝘩 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘴𝘦 𝘵𝘸𝘰 𝘳𝘶𝘪𝘯 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘣𝘦𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘐 𝘱𝘶𝘵 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘣𝘢𝘤𝘬 𝘵𝘰𝘨𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳”
But beware, the ending will have you staring at the wall in shock and flipping the pages hoping for more. Straight to jail for that cliffhanger - I need a miracle, and answers, and revenge immediately please and thank you.
May 3, 2025
Fun reverse harem + fated mates situation
fun but wanted more tension and more time to explore the FMC’s relationship with each of her mates. very insta-lovey (which - hot take - I usually really love) but insta love with 4 guys had me wishing for more tension, banter, etc
fun but wanted more tension and more time to explore the FMC’s relationship with each of her mates. very insta-lovey (which - hot take - I usually really love) but insta love with 4 guys had me wishing for more tension, banter, etc
May 21, 2025
1.5⭐️
5/5🌶️
I fear this one was not for me.
I guess if you’re looking for an insta-lust smutty read with no character development, nonsensical world building and the smallest essence of a plot, then check this out. I would have enjoyed this loads more if there was any chemistry between the characters at all but unfortunately everyone’s only personality trait is being horny all the time
Twas not for me, personally.
First person multi pov
Tropes; reverse harem, urban fantasy(I think??? The world building did not make this very clear. They have magic motorcycles but use scrolls for everything??? Did I miss something here)
5/5🌶️
I fear this one was not for me.
I guess if you’re looking for an insta-lust smutty read with no character development, nonsensical world building and the smallest essence of a plot, then check this out. I would have enjoyed this loads more if there was any chemistry between the characters at all but unfortunately everyone’s only personality trait is being horny all the time
Twas not for me, personally.
First person multi pov
Tropes; reverse harem, urban fantasy(I think??? The world building did not make this very clear. They have magic motorcycles but use scrolls for everything??? Did I miss something here)
August 17, 2025
“The minute I heard your voice, the minute I sensed your emotions, you felt like mine.”
UGH SWOON. This book was so so deliciously good. I feel like this is a great starter book if you want to get into “why choose” or “reverse harem” books because it wasn’t too crazy with like peens coming at you left to right. It was just enough that it left you wanting more. This author really did hit the nail on the head with her dedication quote, “To the readers who always struggle to pick a favorite book boyfriend. Don’t worry—here, you’ll never have to choose. It’s okay to love them all.” LIKE YAS LAWD SHE GETS IT. Why choose will always be top tier and you can’t convince me otherwise😈
The world building was also great in my opinion. I love the way that the author explained Lumathyst and didn’t go on about it for 10 chapters. I hate when you read a book and it’s starts to becoming complicated or confusing about the world building or so detailed that it’s to the point of being over explained.
Last but not least, the Legends of Chaos🥵 I mean like who wouldn’t want to be put into a choosing ceremony, just to be chosen to be with 4 insanely powerful, magical, hot men? Enthusiastic? More like I’ll throw myself at their feet just for them to even look my way. Also, I loved the fact that it was multiple POV as well so you can kind of get a a feel for each potential Rylee is with.
Going into this book I had no idea it was a series and thought it was a standalone and honestly I couldn’t be more excited. I can’t not wait to see how Rylee’s story plays out and what will happen because it doesn’t leave off on a major cliffhanger🥲
UGH SWOON. This book was so so deliciously good. I feel like this is a great starter book if you want to get into “why choose” or “reverse harem” books because it wasn’t too crazy with like peens coming at you left to right. It was just enough that it left you wanting more. This author really did hit the nail on the head with her dedication quote, “To the readers who always struggle to pick a favorite book boyfriend. Don’t worry—here, you’ll never have to choose. It’s okay to love them all.” LIKE YAS LAWD SHE GETS IT. Why choose will always be top tier and you can’t convince me otherwise😈
The world building was also great in my opinion. I love the way that the author explained Lumathyst and didn’t go on about it for 10 chapters. I hate when you read a book and it’s starts to becoming complicated or confusing about the world building or so detailed that it’s to the point of being over explained.
Last but not least, the Legends of Chaos🥵 I mean like who wouldn’t want to be put into a choosing ceremony, just to be chosen to be with 4 insanely powerful, magical, hot men? Enthusiastic? More like I’ll throw myself at their feet just for them to even look my way. Also, I loved the fact that it was multiple POV as well so you can kind of get a a feel for each potential Rylee is with.
Going into this book I had no idea it was a series and thought it was a standalone and honestly I couldn’t be more excited. I can’t not wait to see how Rylee’s story plays out and what will happen because it doesn’t leave off on a major cliffhanger🥲
April 4, 2025
"To the readers who always struggle to pick a
favorite book boyfriend. Don't worry-- here, you'll
never have to choose. It's okay to love them all."
The dedication already says it all!
The book has an interesting premise. Rylee, the main character, is sneaking into "The Choosing" to gain information about her missing sister. "The Choosing" is a party where the 4 sons of the kings, the "Legends," pick a mate. That ends up to be Rylee.
I think what would describe the book best is "all smut, little plot."
Yes, the book does have a warning about being spicy in the very beginning. But in my opinion, it was a little unrealistic how quickly that happened. Rylee doesn't even know the Legends but is happy to engage with any of them right off the bat. I would have personally loved it if we could have gotten some bonding moments first or if the plot would have been more fleshed out as it was a GOOD plot and honestly intriguing.
Apart from that, i do like all of the characters. I liked the story enough to read the sequel as it was an overall easy and fast read.
If you're ever in between books and you're looking for something quick and easy, I think this is it. But if all spice and no plot isn't your thing, then this won't work for you.
favorite book boyfriend. Don't worry-- here, you'll
never have to choose. It's okay to love them all."
The dedication already says it all!
The book has an interesting premise. Rylee, the main character, is sneaking into "The Choosing" to gain information about her missing sister. "The Choosing" is a party where the 4 sons of the kings, the "Legends," pick a mate. That ends up to be Rylee.
I think what would describe the book best is "all smut, little plot."
Yes, the book does have a warning about being spicy in the very beginning. But in my opinion, it was a little unrealistic how quickly that happened. Rylee doesn't even know the Legends but is happy to engage with any of them right off the bat. I would have personally loved it if we could have gotten some bonding moments first or if the plot would have been more fleshed out as it was a GOOD plot and honestly intriguing.
Apart from that, i do like all of the characters. I liked the story enough to read the sequel as it was an overall easy and fast read.
If you're ever in between books and you're looking for something quick and easy, I think this is it. But if all spice and no plot isn't your thing, then this won't work for you.
Read
April 21, 2025mmmmmm it’s a no from me. dnf. i’m not a fan of insta-lust and that’s exactly what this is. they’re mutually obsessed w each other from the jump and i’m more of a slow burn girly, thank you very much. i need a relationship to take its time to develop, otherwise it’s just not believable to me! however, i did think the first 20-30% was pretty fun so it’s not a complete miss. i’m just in my dnf era🤷♀️
April 13, 2025
This was… so bad 😂
April 10, 2025
If anyone needs me too bad, because I AM UNWELL.
Y’all how do I put into words how addictive this book was. I sat down this afternoon with the intent of only reading a couple chapters. Next thing I know I’ve consumed this 500 page book in less than 24 hours. I swear Jade Presley put crack in this book. It’s the only logical explanation I have for why I couldn’t walk away from it this afternoon. And then to end it on CLIFFHANGER. Woman are you trying to torture us. Like I had to go back and re-read the ending to make sure that I did indeed read that correctly the first time. For those wondering I did in fact read it correctly the first time. Y’all my heart, I seriously don’t know how to express the chokehold this book now has on me. And how am I supposed to wait for another year or more until book 2. The struggle is real folks. In terms of a coherent review honestly I’m going to try my best. But have your expectations low just in case.
“The Never List” hooks you right from the beginning. Rylee our MFC is easy to follow along and relate to. She’s smart, kind, funny and loyal. Watching her come into her own as well as flourish with the four Prince’s was so much fun to witness.
Speaking of the 4 Prince’s, did I mention this is a Why Choose book?!?! When I first heard Red Tower was doing one I’ll admit I was nervous cause some of Red Tower’s published works haven’t been my favorite. And I’m particular with my Why Choose. But I’m happy to admit that Jade Presley handled it extremely well. I love that each Prince had their own POV along with Rylee. So we really got to connect and see everyones emotions. The spicy scenes where passionate and intense and I loved every minute of it. To top it off the banter between all of them just took everything over the top.
And for those of you nervous about Why Choose because often times plot gets lost in other books like it. I’m happy to report “The Never List” plot and world building is excellent. The magic system and political structure was unique, interesting and easy to follow. I think my only minor gripe was the reveal towards the end. I 100% saw that coming but trust me I’m not mad in the slightest cause I’m excited to see how that plays out in book 2.
Overall, if you can’t already tell I give this 5 stars and I highly recommend this book. This book is perfect for any Romantasy readers. Especially for those out there looking to dip their toes into why choose romance! Lastly big thank you to Red Tower, Entangled Publishing and Jade Presley for providing me an ARC to read and review. I cannot wait to buy my trophy copy April 1, 2025!
Y’all how do I put into words how addictive this book was. I sat down this afternoon with the intent of only reading a couple chapters. Next thing I know I’ve consumed this 500 page book in less than 24 hours. I swear Jade Presley put crack in this book. It’s the only logical explanation I have for why I couldn’t walk away from it this afternoon. And then to end it on CLIFFHANGER. Woman are you trying to torture us. Like I had to go back and re-read the ending to make sure that I did indeed read that correctly the first time. For those wondering I did in fact read it correctly the first time. Y’all my heart, I seriously don’t know how to express the chokehold this book now has on me. And how am I supposed to wait for another year or more until book 2. The struggle is real folks. In terms of a coherent review honestly I’m going to try my best. But have your expectations low just in case.
“The Never List” hooks you right from the beginning. Rylee our MFC is easy to follow along and relate to. She’s smart, kind, funny and loyal. Watching her come into her own as well as flourish with the four Prince’s was so much fun to witness.
Speaking of the 4 Prince’s, did I mention this is a Why Choose book?!?! When I first heard Red Tower was doing one I’ll admit I was nervous cause some of Red Tower’s published works haven’t been my favorite. And I’m particular with my Why Choose. But I’m happy to admit that Jade Presley handled it extremely well. I love that each Prince had their own POV along with Rylee. So we really got to connect and see everyones emotions. The spicy scenes where passionate and intense and I loved every minute of it. To top it off the banter between all of them just took everything over the top.
And for those of you nervous about Why Choose because often times plot gets lost in other books like it. I’m happy to report “The Never List” plot and world building is excellent. The magic system and political structure was unique, interesting and easy to follow. I think my only minor gripe was the reveal towards the end. I 100% saw that coming but trust me I’m not mad in the slightest cause I’m excited to see how that plays out in book 2.
Overall, if you can’t already tell I give this 5 stars and I highly recommend this book. This book is perfect for any Romantasy readers. Especially for those out there looking to dip their toes into why choose romance! Lastly big thank you to Red Tower, Entangled Publishing and Jade Presley for providing me an ARC to read and review. I cannot wait to buy my trophy copy April 1, 2025!
August 25, 2025
Beautiful.
May 22, 2025
“The minute I heard your voice, the minute I sensed your emotions, you felt like mine.”
Where do I start…. Jade, this is not ok. I need more now! I need to know what happens. Don’t make me wait long for book two! I love it but I hate cliff hangers like that. A specially when you can’t immediately read the next book. I’m just going to be hanging on until I get the next one. This might be my second favorite book with a cliff hanger like that this year.
This was my first reverse harem read and it was delicious! Are there a few minor things that bugged me? Yes, but I fell in love with it. Like I would have loved to see more on Rylee’s time with the four legends. As I felt there time together was too short and cookie cutter. The same scenario plays out with 3 of them. Except Jax, the dark and closed off one. The one that wants Rylee to hate him. But that doesn’t make it any less on my favorites!
Jax is my favorite, out of the four legends. There’s Kal, Pierce, Axl, and Jax. But there time together… all four of them together at once with Rylee…. Had me melting. I can’t even! What more could you want than four princes, worshiping your body like a goddess.
Though I must say I went in blind. With going only off the part where, the description said, Fifty Shades of Grey meets Serpent and the Wings of Night. I haven’t read Serpent and the Wings yet, but I may have to read that soon. It was the Fifty Shades of Grey that had me going in on this. I highly recommend it! If any of this peaks your interest, then go run and get it! It will deliver.
Where do I start…. Jade, this is not ok. I need more now! I need to know what happens. Don’t make me wait long for book two! I love it but I hate cliff hangers like that. A specially when you can’t immediately read the next book. I’m just going to be hanging on until I get the next one. This might be my second favorite book with a cliff hanger like that this year.
This was my first reverse harem read and it was delicious! Are there a few minor things that bugged me? Yes, but I fell in love with it. Like I would have loved to see more on Rylee’s time with the four legends. As I felt there time together was too short and cookie cutter. The same scenario plays out with 3 of them. Except Jax, the dark and closed off one. The one that wants Rylee to hate him. But that doesn’t make it any less on my favorites!
Jax is my favorite, out of the four legends. There’s Kal, Pierce, Axl, and Jax. But there time together… all four of them together at once with Rylee…. Had me melting. I can’t even! What more could you want than four princes, worshiping your body like a goddess.
Though I must say I went in blind. With going only off the part where, the description said, Fifty Shades of Grey meets Serpent and the Wings of Night. I haven’t read Serpent and the Wings yet, but I may have to read that soon. It was the Fifty Shades of Grey that had me going in on this. I highly recommend it! If any of this peaks your interest, then go run and get it! It will deliver.
October 7, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
😈 Content Warnings
• Emotional abuse
• Violence & gore
• Attempted sexual assault & drugging
• Sexual content with multiple consenting partners
• Blood play in intimate settings
• Past sexual abuse
• Mental trauma
• Torture of main characters
💕 Tropes
• Reverse harem (why choose)
• Fated mates
• Immortal god-princes
• Forbidden love
• Forced proximity
• Slow burn to inferno
• Dual POV
📖 Perfect for Readers Who Liked…
• Serpent & the Wings of Night by Carissa Broadbent
• A Touch of Darkness by Scarlett St. Clair
• The Bridge Kingdom by Danielle L. Jensen
• The Shadows Between Us by Tricia Levenseller
🧭 Age Recommendation
18+
🎵 Song Match
“Believer” by Imagine Dragons
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
😈 Content Warnings
• Emotional abuse
• Violence & gore
• Attempted sexual assault & drugging
• Sexual content with multiple consenting partners
• Blood play in intimate settings
• Past sexual abuse
• Mental trauma
• Torture of main characters
💕 Tropes
• Reverse harem (why choose)
• Fated mates
• Immortal god-princes
• Forbidden love
• Forced proximity
• Slow burn to inferno
• Dual POV
📖 Perfect for Readers Who Liked…
• Serpent & the Wings of Night by Carissa Broadbent
• A Touch of Darkness by Scarlett St. Clair
• The Bridge Kingdom by Danielle L. Jensen
• The Shadows Between Us by Tricia Levenseller
🧭 Age Recommendation
18+
🎵 Song Match
“Believer” by Imagine Dragons
April 23, 2025
I did not expect to love The Never List. I initially lumped The Never List with all the other recent Red Tower sprayed edge books, but there was something about it that nagged at me to read it. I’m glad I did.
The Never List is a why choose romantasy that follows Rylee as she’s chosen as the Potential, a potential mate for the four princes of Lumathyst. Unfortunately for Rylee, she’s hiding a secret that can get her killed.
While The Never List is spicy, the tension and chemistry builds between Rylee and the princes before any sexual scenes making them feel meaningful and impactful instead of spice for spice’s sake.
Spice level: 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️
Overall, The Never List surprised me. I loved every second of it and cannot wait for the sequel.
The Never List is a why choose romantasy that follows Rylee as she’s chosen as the Potential, a potential mate for the four princes of Lumathyst. Unfortunately for Rylee, she’s hiding a secret that can get her killed.
While The Never List is spicy, the tension and chemistry builds between Rylee and the princes before any sexual scenes making them feel meaningful and impactful instead of spice for spice’s sake.
Spice level: 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️
Overall, The Never List surprised me. I loved every second of it and cannot wait for the sequel.
April 26, 2025
The only redeeming quality is that it is occasionally self aware of how bad it is.
May 31, 2025
stayed up way past my bedtime to get to the gang bang
July 14, 2025
Did I just like a book from Red Tower????
miracles of all miracles i did
let me just put it out there that this is NOT a Romantacy...this is a Lustacy
The way I'd describe this book is "Cotton Candy" at a carnival
You know it's just sugar and color
You know there are better snacks out there
You know you may get a toothache
But damn you can't stop yourself eating that whole stick😅
asaand
Like a Cotton Candy, its enjoyable for a certain purpose
RH is one of my comfort preferences read between heavy books
and I had this in my "ordering every sprayed edge book on Amazon" era
plus, it was a buddy read
let me start with the many, Manny, MAAAANNNYYY negatives
1- it desperately needs editing. I am certain it did not have any. I started reading it physical but the so many mistakes were jarring so I switched to audio
2- the language was juvenile and not meant to be serious
3- the pop-cultural references were hilarious. so, in this magical realm, they know the story of Cinderella and turing into a 🎃???🫨🤣, drinking whiskey?
4- though it had multiple POVs, something I demand in an RH romance, the MMCs POVs were mostly "lust". you don't get essence when they talk. the male narrator was used for a thirst trap
5- speaking of lust, this is an insta-lust book. it is a Spice-smut-sex story coated with fantasy that happens to have a good storyline. Something if worked on seriously, the book would have been phenomenal
I did not get the romance because of the sole focus on the physical attraction.
6- eventhough the book warns that this is a spicy fantasy, the spice scenes felt like watered down. they were vanilla for an RH romance
7- the names do not take into a fantasy, but to neighborhood in LA maybe.
Riley, Jax, Alex, Cal, Pierce, Eren, Ivy!!!!!!
having said that, I really liked the fantasy side
the story is cliched
there is a sister who disappeared...🙄
Riley is hiding her identity and power ...🙄
she is "not like other" contenders...🙄
but I was invested in the story
how she'll win the hearts of the princes
pass the King's tests
pass the inugration
unravel the secrets
fight the injustice
and deal with the plot twist at the end
I liked Riley. she is not helpless nor a complete badass. She cares but wants to survive. She went through tough ordeals but did not break. She kept pace with the Legends but did not allow them to walk over her
she has an elemental power that I rarely see - air power
I just wished to see her using her magical powers more rather than her sex appeal.
I have to give credits to the female narrator of the book - though there was a male narrator too- she nailed both genders
The book Ends with a cliffhanger
And I way read book 2
miracles of all miracles i did
let me just put it out there that this is NOT a Romantacy...this is a Lustacy
The way I'd describe this book is "Cotton Candy" at a carnival
You know it's just sugar and color
You know there are better snacks out there
You know you may get a toothache
But damn you can't stop yourself eating that whole stick😅
asaand
Like a Cotton Candy, its enjoyable for a certain purpose
RH is one of my comfort preferences read between heavy books
and I had this in my "ordering every sprayed edge book on Amazon" era
plus, it was a buddy read
let me start with the many, Manny, MAAAANNNYYY negatives
1- it desperately needs editing. I am certain it did not have any. I started reading it physical but the so many mistakes were jarring so I switched to audio
2- the language was juvenile and not meant to be serious
3- the pop-cultural references were hilarious. so, in this magical realm, they know the story of Cinderella and turing into a 🎃???🫨🤣, drinking whiskey?
4- though it had multiple POVs, something I demand in an RH romance, the MMCs POVs were mostly "lust". you don't get essence when they talk. the male narrator was used for a thirst trap
5- speaking of lust, this is an insta-lust book. it is a Spice-smut-sex story coated with fantasy that happens to have a good storyline. Something if worked on seriously, the book would have been phenomenal
I did not get the romance because of the sole focus on the physical attraction.
6- eventhough the book warns that this is a spicy fantasy, the spice scenes felt like watered down. they were vanilla for an RH romance
7- the names do not take into a fantasy, but to neighborhood in LA maybe.
Riley, Jax, Alex, Cal, Pierce, Eren, Ivy!!!!!!
having said that, I really liked the fantasy side
the story is cliched
there is a sister who disappeared...🙄
Riley is hiding her identity and power ...🙄
she is "not like other" contenders...🙄
but I was invested in the story
how she'll win the hearts of the princes
pass the King's tests
pass the inugration
unravel the secrets
fight the injustice
and deal with the plot twist at the end
I liked Riley. she is not helpless nor a complete badass. She cares but wants to survive. She went through tough ordeals but did not break. She kept pace with the Legends but did not allow them to walk over her
she has an elemental power that I rarely see - air power
I just wished to see her using her magical powers more rather than her sex appeal.
I have to give credits to the female narrator of the book - though there was a male narrator too- she nailed both genders
The book Ends with a cliffhanger
And I way read book 2
March 31, 2025
♾️ stars, period, this book has broken me.
I knew literally just a few chapters in that this book was gonna be 5 stars. I loved everything about, every single thing. The characters, the plot, the setting, the drama, the secrets, the mysteries, the romance, and the spice 🤭. All perfect.
If you love a good why choose Romantasy that has equal parts plot and spice and will rip out your heart, this is the one.
I will now be impatiently waiting for book 2 after that cliffhanger. 😭
I knew literally just a few chapters in that this book was gonna be 5 stars. I loved everything about, every single thing. The characters, the plot, the setting, the drama, the secrets, the mysteries, the romance, and the spice 🤭. All perfect.
If you love a good why choose Romantasy that has equal parts plot and spice and will rip out your heart, this is the one.
I will now be impatiently waiting for book 2 after that cliffhanger. 😭
April 15, 2025
Three stars feels generous. There was a cool idea here, but the execution was lacklustre and boring at times.
The amount of hyperbole used by the author made the characters and the writing feel immature. The book had a lot of smut, but almost no romance. It was like eating a spicy soup that had no salt/flavour.
The big reveal at the end was more than obvious and even then, it felt like lazy writing to make the big bad who it was.
The amount of hyperbole used by the author made the characters and the writing feel immature. The book had a lot of smut, but almost no romance. It was like eating a spicy soup that had no salt/flavour.
The big reveal at the end was more than obvious and even then, it felt like lazy writing to make the big bad who it was.
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