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Ithandryll
Moving to Chicago should have felt like a dream come true, but for Roxanna Lovegood, it’s a last-ditch effort to run away—and finally be free—from a nightmarish past. With the world-famous skyline as her backyard and an endless lake of blue in the front, she’s surrounded by reminders of her progress and survival, even when her heart struggles to piece together the shattered remains of everything she’s lost.
When mysterious strangers break into her apartment, curiosity leads her to a puzzling artifact buried in the floorboards of her new apartment. One moment she’s staring at the night sky over Lake Michigan…and the next, she’s running for her life through the forest of a distant land…a mythical realm…surrounded by people and creatures she’s only heard of in fairy tales.
Only with the help of a highborn fae and his stubborn blend of mischief is Roxi able to navigate the viciously unpredictable world without getting herself killed. Devon is determined to figure out how the hell she wound up there to begin with, and even more determined to send her back home to the Outworld. He’s got secrets to keep and his own set of wounds unwilling to heal, and the last thing he wants or needs is Roxanna Lovegood questioning—and challenging—everything he thought he knew.
There’s just one teensy-weensy problem.
The longer Roxi stays in the realm of the fae…the less either of them wants her to leave.
When mysterious strangers break into her apartment, curiosity leads her to a puzzling artifact buried in the floorboards of her new apartment. One moment she’s staring at the night sky over Lake Michigan…and the next, she’s running for her life through the forest of a distant land…a mythical realm…surrounded by people and creatures she’s only heard of in fairy tales.
Only with the help of a highborn fae and his stubborn blend of mischief is Roxi able to navigate the viciously unpredictable world without getting herself killed. Devon is determined to figure out how the hell she wound up there to begin with, and even more determined to send her back home to the Outworld. He’s got secrets to keep and his own set of wounds unwilling to heal, and the last thing he wants or needs is Roxanna Lovegood questioning—and challenging—everything he thought he knew.
There’s just one teensy-weensy problem.
The longer Roxi stays in the realm of the fae…the less either of them wants her to leave.
556 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 13, 2023
23 people are currently reading
176 people want to read
About the author
Nikki Auberkett
5 books37 followersNikki Auberkett is a cultural anthropologist, developmental editor, award-nominated author, and lifelong lover of the fae folk. With nearly 15 years of research and exploration into global folklore and mythology, biblical archaeology, and all things weird and unusual, she weaves her research and social science expertise into her personal love for fantasy fiction.
Her most recent debut, Ithandryll, is the culmination of over 23 years of writing and revisions—don’t do the math, but she started writing it when she was only eleven years old! Originally intended to be one stand-alone book, it is now the first of a planned 6-8 book series, Song of the Sidhe. The estimated discrepancy is based on her main characters’ terrible habit of never following the map.
When she’s not finding ways to vent about human rights via mythological retellings or triple-checking her notes on ancient seafaring voyagers, Nikki can be spotted periodically throughout the city of Chicago testing her limits of coffee intake (she has yet to find one).
Her most recent debut, Ithandryll, is the culmination of over 23 years of writing and revisions—don’t do the math, but she started writing it when she was only eleven years old! Originally intended to be one stand-alone book, it is now the first of a planned 6-8 book series, Song of the Sidhe. The estimated discrepancy is based on her main characters’ terrible habit of never following the map.
When she’s not finding ways to vent about human rights via mythological retellings or triple-checking her notes on ancient seafaring voyagers, Nikki can be spotted periodically throughout the city of Chicago testing her limits of coffee intake (she has yet to find one).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
January 24, 2023
This fantasy adventure romance novel blew me away! The author really knows how to captivate you with her descriptions of the ever changing world around Roxi. From the first line of this novel I was drawn in, following the fmc as she tries to figure out the weird things that are happening around her and trying to guess what happened in her past to make her flee to Chicago, I couldn’t put this book down for a second.
I loved how Nikki included a spiritual level to this book with Roxi believing in spirits and having to cleanse her space to try and ward away evil. I loved reading the building tension between Devon & Roxi through out the book and trying to figure out how to get Roxi out of the strange new world of the fae realm. While reading this book I deeply fell in love with Devon and his witty flirty attitude, throughout the novel you get to see Roxi grow as a character especially within her body images issues.
The twist and turns in this book will have you second guessing what you think you know and leave you wanting to know more, especially that cliffhanger! I will definitely be reading the next book in this series.
I loved how Nikki included a spiritual level to this book with Roxi believing in spirits and having to cleanse her space to try and ward away evil. I loved reading the building tension between Devon & Roxi through out the book and trying to figure out how to get Roxi out of the strange new world of the fae realm. While reading this book I deeply fell in love with Devon and his witty flirty attitude, throughout the novel you get to see Roxi grow as a character especially within her body images issues.
The twist and turns in this book will have you second guessing what you think you know and leave you wanting to know more, especially that cliffhanger! I will definitely be reading the next book in this series.
March 6, 2023
Sooo you know when you are just reading along in your ebook and just tapping along. And you keep tapping because the page isn’t changing and after about 10 times you pull yourself far enough out of the fantasy world that the author created to realize that you had reached the end of the (apparently in print form has 675) book and you were not ready? No? Just me? Kay. The world building is, for a lack of a better term, magical. This book is literally just being published, but I need the next one. I did have some sneaky feelings about the big reveal, but not the logistics of it. The last twist had me tapping without anymore pages coming and I’m just not over it. I don’t normally like books that have an overt amount of Christian mentions in them, but the way the author braided them into the world of Fae fascinated me. I liked the mixture of things together, not one being right versus the other. This world pulled me in and I wasn’t ready to leave it yet.
Roxi just moved to Chicago, and is all on her own for the first time. She immediately starts having some interesting experiences, to say the least. She dreams about a gnome and a ball of light being in her new unfurnished apartment looking for something, but clearly it wasn’t there. And then she finds a hidden gadget. She falls asleep after finding it, and when she wakes up she isn’t in the Midwest anymore. And she doesn’t even have Toto to keep her company. Her GPS doesn’t work, and a deer seems to understand her. She is discovered by a highborn fae who seems to want nothing to do with her, and only wants to get her back to her world. But as she spends time in this realm, she isn’t so sure she wants to go back.
Roxi just moved to Chicago, and is all on her own for the first time. She immediately starts having some interesting experiences, to say the least. She dreams about a gnome and a ball of light being in her new unfurnished apartment looking for something, but clearly it wasn’t there. And then she finds a hidden gadget. She falls asleep after finding it, and when she wakes up she isn’t in the Midwest anymore. And she doesn’t even have Toto to keep her company. Her GPS doesn’t work, and a deer seems to understand her. She is discovered by a highborn fae who seems to want nothing to do with her, and only wants to get her back to her world. But as she spends time in this realm, she isn’t so sure she wants to go back.
July 25, 2023
Roxi has been transported to Ithandryll. A fae realm where she immediately is thrown into a race in which she meet Devon. On their attempt to get Roxi back to the “Outworld”, they run across many friends and enemies. The longer she is in Ithandryll, the less she wants to return to the Outworld.
This magical story is full of twists some I saw coming and others completely out of left field. There is a budding romance, steamy scenes, and some solid fight scenes. I really enjoyed that there is a balance of discovering answers to questions about the plot and also always something new to keep guessing about. The story was slow at first, but it picked about to a nice pace about 170 pages in. From that point I was excited for the next chance to pick it up! Ends on an absolutely wild cliffhanger with a second book expected, but I’m unsure when.
Initially, I really struggled with the “quirky” vibe of Roxi and the overall tone of the first few chapters. And the character dialogue was a bit cringe. This improved quite a bit over the course of the story! I should also mention cw of rape, slavery, and sexual assault. I’m not a dark romance reader, so that threw me for a loop at first.
Overall, I grew to enjoy the book, and I plan to continue with the series
March 20, 2025
*I was given this book as an eArc but my review is based solely on my own thoughts and opinions*
I honestly don’t know how I feel about this book and it’s bugging me that I can’t decide why lol. I was hooked at the beginning, I liked how characters were visiting her in the real world, I didn’t mind the race to capture a woman (I see in the reviews some didn’t like that), I thought that was an interesting way to have met each other and show Roxis strength and her conviction, strength and character. What was so confusing to me was her life and history before this story takes place, it felt like a different book all together, so off from the story I was reading. The introduction of religion felt off and her stepfather, etc. Some of it explained at the end but idk. I liked all the twist and turns and secrets that you learn, I liked Devon (the mmc) but Roxi was like bipolar at times. She seemed strong but then all of a sudden acted weak, like she ran away from Devon for something so juvenile. Devon at first was all like this is the way, you do not understand our ways and rules and laws you must abide them but then the scene where roxi fights back against aggressors and hierarchy, he’s all like go for it and it’s kinky. Make up your mind bro lol. It’s a very long book, not a quick read, so keep that in mind if you’re ready and in that state of mind.
Like I said, idk how I feel about it which is making it hard to come up with a rating. So let’s just say 2.5 -3 and go from there haha. I really appreciate the author accepting me and letting me review her book. Congrats on everything you’ve done and all your hard work.
I honestly don’t know how I feel about this book and it’s bugging me that I can’t decide why lol. I was hooked at the beginning, I liked how characters were visiting her in the real world, I didn’t mind the race to capture a woman (I see in the reviews some didn’t like that), I thought that was an interesting way to have met each other and show Roxis strength and her conviction, strength and character. What was so confusing to me was her life and history before this story takes place, it felt like a different book all together, so off from the story I was reading. The introduction of religion felt off and her stepfather, etc. Some of it explained at the end but idk. I liked all the twist and turns and secrets that you learn, I liked Devon (the mmc) but Roxi was like bipolar at times. She seemed strong but then all of a sudden acted weak, like she ran away from Devon for something so juvenile. Devon at first was all like this is the way, you do not understand our ways and rules and laws you must abide them but then the scene where roxi fights back against aggressors and hierarchy, he’s all like go for it and it’s kinky. Make up your mind bro lol. It’s a very long book, not a quick read, so keep that in mind if you’re ready and in that state of mind.
Like I said, idk how I feel about it which is making it hard to come up with a rating. So let’s just say 2.5 -3 and go from there haha. I really appreciate the author accepting me and letting me review her book. Congrats on everything you’ve done and all your hard work.
February 17, 2023
Roxi's day isn't going well. Moving to a new city for a fresh start after personal tragedy, her plans for an apartment fall through. Instead, she takes a place - sight unseen - out of desperation. But Roxi's new home is only the start of her adventures as she discovers an alternate world - one full of magic and peril.
Overall, I enjoyed reading this novel. I thought the world-building was very well executed. The pacing was excellent, and the writing was generally engaging (though it sometimes tended to be overly flowery).
The characters were interesting, though I prefer more complexity. But I was definitely interested enough to continue reading about them.
I had figured out all but one of the twists in this novel by the time I was about a third of the way in, so those particular reveals were a little bit disappointing. While this is the first novel in a planned series, so I expected there to be unresolved plot points, I did find the ending to be very abrupt - disconcertingly so. It did not seem like a logical place to leave the first novel.
I definitely enjoyed this series enough to want to continue the series.
I received an ARC via the author.
Overall, I enjoyed reading this novel. I thought the world-building was very well executed. The pacing was excellent, and the writing was generally engaging (though it sometimes tended to be overly flowery).
The characters were interesting, though I prefer more complexity. But I was definitely interested enough to continue reading about them.
I had figured out all but one of the twists in this novel by the time I was about a third of the way in, so those particular reveals were a little bit disappointing. While this is the first novel in a planned series, so I expected there to be unresolved plot points, I did find the ending to be very abrupt - disconcertingly so. It did not seem like a logical place to leave the first novel.
I definitely enjoyed this series enough to want to continue the series.
I received an ARC via the author.
January 28, 2023
I'm not sure how to even start to try to explain what this book makes me feel. This story is beautifully written, with so many plot twist and secrets that I almost couldn't keep up with.
The way the characters are shown, all with their good and bad qualities, the GIGANTIC cliffhanger at the end of the book... I'm flabbergasted, frankly.
I loved Devon and Roxi, even though their relationship felt a little bit rushed, in my mind it made sense. And with the information you learn while you keep reading, it even makes more sense.
This books got me confused and enchanted, not only because it narrates a great story, but also because of the gorgeous descriptions of places, that give a very detailed vision of the fae realm.
The faes in this book are based on the Irish mitology, which I don't know that well but felt fitting in the story.
I hadn't read a book that could make me laugh and cry so easily in a while.
I'm just in awe, screaming and crying. I can't wait for the next book in this series! I need it and I need it soon!
The way the characters are shown, all with their good and bad qualities, the GIGANTIC cliffhanger at the end of the book... I'm flabbergasted, frankly.
I loved Devon and Roxi, even though their relationship felt a little bit rushed, in my mind it made sense. And with the information you learn while you keep reading, it even makes more sense.
This books got me confused and enchanted, not only because it narrates a great story, but also because of the gorgeous descriptions of places, that give a very detailed vision of the fae realm.
The faes in this book are based on the Irish mitology, which I don't know that well but felt fitting in the story.
I hadn't read a book that could make me laugh and cry so easily in a while.
I'm just in awe, screaming and crying. I can't wait for the next book in this series! I need it and I need it soon!
January 26, 2023
This story takes place present day Roxanna moved to a suburb of Chicago. A seemingly unfortunate event of the apartment she wanted being already rented when she went to move in. She finds herself in a nice but cheaper apartment in the same complex. With her money troubles she is able to get food and think about how she will furnish her apartment.
She finds a mysterious object in her new apartment and takes it to the Chicago beach. She falls asleep under the stars and wakes in a fae realm.
I will reiterate, I hate reading books when the cliff hanger leaves me wanting sooo much more and I just want to pickup the next book and binge read it. Nikki left me screaming “Noooo it can’t end here.”
I as a reader with ADHD find patterns in writing, sometimes that means jumping to: oh this is going to happen next or this is who this person is. I’m so happy when my assumptions were proved wrong.
Next book in the series please!!
She finds a mysterious object in her new apartment and takes it to the Chicago beach. She falls asleep under the stars and wakes in a fae realm.
I will reiterate, I hate reading books when the cliff hanger leaves me wanting sooo much more and I just want to pickup the next book and binge read it. Nikki left me screaming “Noooo it can’t end here.”
I as a reader with ADHD find patterns in writing, sometimes that means jumping to: oh this is going to happen next or this is who this person is. I’m so happy when my assumptions were proved wrong.
Next book in the series please!!
January 13, 2025
I received this book for free and I must say WOW! I was totally blown away. The story writing and world building drew me right in. The mix of magic and prayer were an interesting mix that I really enjoyed, and just the whole thing, WOW! I can’t say that enough 😆. I didn’t enjoy the cliffhanger at the end, but I completely understand that where the book ended was a great place to stop also. I cannot wait for the next book to come out and am going to be impatiently waiting, as I need to see how Roxi and Devon resolve the issue (no spoilers).
May 27, 2025
Ithandryll is a beautifully written dark fantasy romance that surprised me in all the right ways. The worldbuilding is rich and immersive, with a distinct atmosphere that makes the fae realms feel both dangerous and enchanting. From the first few chapters, I found myself pulled in by the magic, mystery, and slow-burn romantic tension.
There are quite a few twists woven throughout, and while I guessed some early on, there were definitely moments that completely caught me off guard. Especially the epilogue, which drops a pretty big cliffhanger. Thankfully, I already have a copy of Heir of Oberon, so I’m excited to dive back in soon.
The protagonist, Roxi, is a bit of an emotional rollercoaster. She cries a lot, which was frustrating at first, but as her backstory comes to light, it becomes easier to understand why she’s so emotionally raw. Her trauma is real, and the author takes care in showing how it affects her growth. At the same time, the frequent references to her curvy body started to feel repetitive. I really appreciated the representation, but the constant reminders pulled me out of the story at times. A more subtle approach would have let the rep speak for itself.
I really enjoyed most of the characters, especially the MMC, who’s a total consent king and carries a lot of emotional weight. Their chemistry builds slowly and feels earned. Some of the side characters stood out too, particularly the more mysterious or morally gray ones. I’m curious to see where their arcs go next.
The Christian elements early on felt a bit out of place. I worried it might become a major theme, but thankfully it’s pretty infrequent as the story progresses. There’s also an element of slavery that parallels some very real and ugly parts of U.S. history, and I appreciated that the author didn’t shy away from showing how horrific and unjust it is within the world.
My only real critiques: the dialogue can feel juvenile at times, and the pacing of character emotions can be a little uneven. But those are small bumps in what is otherwise a beautifully imagined story with strong emotional arcs, excellent worldbuilding, and a romance that keeps you guessing and rooting hard.
If you love slow-burn fantasy romance with secrets, shadows, emotional healing, and powerful magic, this is definitely worth your TBR.
There are quite a few twists woven throughout, and while I guessed some early on, there were definitely moments that completely caught me off guard. Especially the epilogue, which drops a pretty big cliffhanger. Thankfully, I already have a copy of Heir of Oberon, so I’m excited to dive back in soon.
The protagonist, Roxi, is a bit of an emotional rollercoaster. She cries a lot, which was frustrating at first, but as her backstory comes to light, it becomes easier to understand why she’s so emotionally raw. Her trauma is real, and the author takes care in showing how it affects her growth. At the same time, the frequent references to her curvy body started to feel repetitive. I really appreciated the representation, but the constant reminders pulled me out of the story at times. A more subtle approach would have let the rep speak for itself.
I really enjoyed most of the characters, especially the MMC, who’s a total consent king and carries a lot of emotional weight. Their chemistry builds slowly and feels earned. Some of the side characters stood out too, particularly the more mysterious or morally gray ones. I’m curious to see where their arcs go next.
The Christian elements early on felt a bit out of place. I worried it might become a major theme, but thankfully it’s pretty infrequent as the story progresses. There’s also an element of slavery that parallels some very real and ugly parts of U.S. history, and I appreciated that the author didn’t shy away from showing how horrific and unjust it is within the world.
My only real critiques: the dialogue can feel juvenile at times, and the pacing of character emotions can be a little uneven. But those are small bumps in what is otherwise a beautifully imagined story with strong emotional arcs, excellent worldbuilding, and a romance that keeps you guessing and rooting hard.
If you love slow-burn fantasy romance with secrets, shadows, emotional healing, and powerful magic, this is definitely worth your TBR.
January 29, 2023
"The man who captures you claims you. You belong to him, forever."
⭐: 4.5/5
🌶️: 1.5/5
🔥:3.5/5
Tropes:
-Found Family
-Hidden Identities
-Who did this?
-Betrayals
-Hidden Realms
The Beginning had me wondering lots of things! Once we got to about 20% it picked up real quick. I couldn't put the book down. I was pretty spot on with my theories but I was still trying to figure out how Nikki would have it played out (I'm someone who over-analyzes every detail) For so many you will encounter so many twists!
This book will leave you with your jaw hung open.
I enjoyed how Roxi stood up for what she believed in and loved seeing that little bit of darkness from her light.
A lot of banter and some comedic dialogue had me cackling.
"I've seen you. I've watched you rule with an iron fist when needed, and show compassion even more. No one is perfect, and I know both of us are going to slip up from time to time. Every great leader does. But I know, without a doubt, that you are the only woman in this entire Kingdom ready and able, and worthy, to wear a crown."
Does anything else need to be said about that? 🔥🔥 *Swoons*
The only thing that confused me a little was when we got to see different POVs. There were just a few parts that made me question the sudden POV change. Other than that I can not wait until we get to book 2. I absolutely need to read what happens next!
Thank you so much Nikki Auberkett for providing me with an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
⭐: 4.5/5
🌶️: 1.5/5
🔥:3.5/5
Tropes:
-Found Family
-Hidden Identities
-Who did this?
-Betrayals
-Hidden Realms
The Beginning had me wondering lots of things! Once we got to about 20% it picked up real quick. I couldn't put the book down. I was pretty spot on with my theories but I was still trying to figure out how Nikki would have it played out (I'm someone who over-analyzes every detail) For so many you will encounter so many twists!
This book will leave you with your jaw hung open.
I enjoyed how Roxi stood up for what she believed in and loved seeing that little bit of darkness from her light.
A lot of banter and some comedic dialogue had me cackling.
"I've seen you. I've watched you rule with an iron fist when needed, and show compassion even more. No one is perfect, and I know both of us are going to slip up from time to time. Every great leader does. But I know, without a doubt, that you are the only woman in this entire Kingdom ready and able, and worthy, to wear a crown."
Does anything else need to be said about that? 🔥🔥 *Swoons*
The only thing that confused me a little was when we got to see different POVs. There were just a few parts that made me question the sudden POV change. Other than that I can not wait until we get to book 2. I absolutely need to read what happens next!
Thank you so much Nikki Auberkett for providing me with an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
March 10, 2025
Ithandryll by Nikki Auberkett is the first book in a new series and I loved it! The world-building is amazing, and combined with the flowing writing style, I got pulled into the story from the very first.
The magic system, the mystery, the plot-twist, it all made it very hard for me to put the book down. And after the cliffhanger I can’t wait to read the next book!
Highly recommended to any fantasy lover, who wants to be captivated by a very good story, with great characters and fantastic world-building.
The magic system, the mystery, the plot-twist, it all made it very hard for me to put the book down. And after the cliffhanger I can’t wait to read the next book!
Highly recommended to any fantasy lover, who wants to be captivated by a very good story, with great characters and fantastic world-building.
January 27, 2023
This story is currently living rent free in my head. I loved the little bits of mystery sprinkled in. So many juicy little nuggets that I can't wait to see play out on book two.
Definitely a fantasy book, but not too much high fantasy as yet. Lots of groundwork for the series with a lot of relationship building.
Definitely a fantasy book, but not too much high fantasy as yet. Lots of groundwork for the series with a lot of relationship building.
March 14, 2025
Lore? Check. Magic? Check. Touch her and die? check. Do you want to find yourself transported to a beautiful world full of soulmates dangerous games and magic beyond? This book is it! The characters are well developed. The world is beautiful. It was a quick fun read that I read in less than four hours.
January 27, 2023
She was hoping for a fresh start but all she was really doing was running away from everything. This book follows her journey so sit and read just how and where this journey will take you. A brilliant read
February 10, 2023
I was so lucky to receive an ARC of this in exchange for a review!
Honestly I can't put into words how much I loved this book and that everyone should read it! Roxi has been through so much and is so relatable in many ways! The world of Ithandryll is beautiful and I can't wait to read the next book because the ending has left me shook!
I have quite a few ARCs to read this month and the bar has been set really high with this one!
Honestly I can't put into words how much I loved this book and that everyone should read it! Roxi has been through so much and is so relatable in many ways! The world of Ithandryll is beautiful and I can't wait to read the next book because the ending has left me shook!
I have quite a few ARCs to read this month and the bar has been set really high with this one!
June 7, 2025
This book! I know it’s a good book when I struggle to put into words why I loved this book and why you should read it! At first glance, this book may seem straightforward. I mean it’s a fantasy book so it’s been done before, right? Wrong! So wrong! This book has so many layers to it and just when I thought I knew what might happen, another layer was pulled back. I loved both the FMC and our MMC. Roxi and Devon meet in an unusual way. So it seems. I won’t elaborate but I will say that some things aren’t always as they may seem. I can’t stress it enough when I say that you just need to read this book yourself. A great start to what I already know is going to be a fantastic series!
February 4, 2023
Genre:
Fantasy
Romance
Adventure 🤩
Character build was amazing. Showed both the good and bad within them. This book had me on a rollercoaster of emotions that made me not want to put it down 😋
The BIGGGGGG cliffhanger had me begging for more so I definitely can’t wait for more to come
Gimme book 2 😩
Fantasy
Romance
Adventure 🤩
Character build was amazing. Showed both the good and bad within them. This book had me on a rollercoaster of emotions that made me not want to put it down 😋
The BIGGGGGG cliffhanger had me begging for more so I definitely can’t wait for more to come
Gimme book 2 😩
April 27, 2025
This is definitely a 5-star book, it just wasn’t quite what I needed at the time I read it (I was in the mood for a large cast of characters). Since enjoyment is the main factor I use to decide on a rating, I brought it down to 4/5.
This book was a great example of what romantasy should be! The romance didn’t overshadow the fantasy: there were vivid fantastical locations and creatures, an intriguing fantasy plot, and court politics.
I tend not to enjoy romances as characters are often depicted as perfectly gorgeous Barbies, which is unrealistic and keeps me from caring about them. In this case, the FMC (Roxi) struggles with self-confidence as she is curvy, and also has mental health struggles (depression, trauma). This made her relatable and complex. Pretty privilege is a real thing, and when characters don’t feel like they have access to it, they are forced to actually analyse and think about the problems they face, which necessarily leads to a much more interesting story.
I also generally dislike the fated mates trope, but in this case the attraction felt natural and real.
A few chapters showed moments of Roxi’s past. These were seamlessly integrated to the story and didn’t affect its flow, while giving information that was essential to understanding Roxi’s fears, motivations and world-view.
There were a few elements of the story that were meant to hint at things to come, but were written in a way that felt as though I, as a reader, was meant to understand them in the moment. I’m not sure why it felt like this; I’ve been a fantasy fan my whole life and am used to complex stories with a lot of elements that aren’t meant to be understood straight away. I can’t point to why exactly these elements felt a little bit off to me… they didn’t impact my overall enjoyment, but did confuse me a bit.
I had a small issue that will probably be a positive for a lot of people. I am a Christian-raised currently-agnostic scientist; Roxi’s religious beliefs honestly felt like the most unrealistic part of the whole story 😅 I just can’t relate to believing in a God in a world where fae and magic exist. But religion wasn’t brought up often so it didn’t bother me overmuch, just made me roll my eyes occasionally.
I’m happy to be part of Nikki’s ARC team as it means I’ll be able to jump in the sequel straight away!
This book was a great example of what romantasy should be! The romance didn’t overshadow the fantasy: there were vivid fantastical locations and creatures, an intriguing fantasy plot, and court politics.
I tend not to enjoy romances as characters are often depicted as perfectly gorgeous Barbies, which is unrealistic and keeps me from caring about them. In this case, the FMC (Roxi) struggles with self-confidence as she is curvy, and also has mental health struggles (depression, trauma). This made her relatable and complex. Pretty privilege is a real thing, and when characters don’t feel like they have access to it, they are forced to actually analyse and think about the problems they face, which necessarily leads to a much more interesting story.
I also generally dislike the fated mates trope, but in this case the attraction felt natural and real.
A few chapters showed moments of Roxi’s past. These were seamlessly integrated to the story and didn’t affect its flow, while giving information that was essential to understanding Roxi’s fears, motivations and world-view.
There were a few elements of the story that were meant to hint at things to come, but were written in a way that felt as though I, as a reader, was meant to understand them in the moment. I’m not sure why it felt like this; I’ve been a fantasy fan my whole life and am used to complex stories with a lot of elements that aren’t meant to be understood straight away. I can’t point to why exactly these elements felt a little bit off to me… they didn’t impact my overall enjoyment, but did confuse me a bit.
I had a small issue that will probably be a positive for a lot of people. I am a Christian-raised currently-agnostic scientist; Roxi’s religious beliefs honestly felt like the most unrealistic part of the whole story 😅 I just can’t relate to believing in a God in a world where fae and magic exist. But religion wasn’t brought up often so it didn’t bother me overmuch, just made me roll my eyes occasionally.
I’m happy to be part of Nikki’s ARC team as it means I’ll be able to jump in the sequel straight away!
February 25, 2023
OMG!!!! My life was literally on hold for two days because I could not put this book down. The story telling is amazing. It’s familiar but very different and unique at the same time. I love love love Roxi and Devon. And their story.
February 21, 2025
This book is worse than drugs, in ALL the right ways! I received a copy directly from the author and all views are my own honest opinions!
I was unprepared for the slap to the face with the amount of trauma Roxi has gone through, and my own cathartic reaction to reading it was amazing.
This did cause me to pause for a few days before I had to dive back in. The flourishes of the plot were more than I could handle at times, but Roxi is such a badass FMC it was amazing to read about her intense love for….. HIM
That’s all I can say without being spoiler free! This book is like crack though and I NEED my next fix of sexy fae and political intrigue and rebellion!!!
I was unprepared for the slap to the face with the amount of trauma Roxi has gone through, and my own cathartic reaction to reading it was amazing.
This did cause me to pause for a few days before I had to dive back in. The flourishes of the plot were more than I could handle at times, but Roxi is such a badass FMC it was amazing to read about her intense love for….. HIM
That’s all I can say without being spoiler free! This book is like crack though and I NEED my next fix of sexy fae and political intrigue and rebellion!!!
April 9, 2025
This is Book 1 of the Song of the Sidhe Series, and it is an epic fantasy romance that takes you on an action-packed adventure.
Wow. This read is amazing. I had no idea what to expect going in, but this hooked me right from the beginning until the end. I was getting a little burned out from the fantasy books I was reading that all started to read the same, and this one invigorated me! It was different, captivating, and adventurous. It is a longer read (at least from ones I’ve been reading lately), so there were a couple times I thought the end was near because it would have been a good cliffhanger, and it kept going (in all the best of ways). The actual cliffhanger though was just oh my gosh...WHAT?! Absolutely no complaints here. I loved everything about it and was pleasantly surprised a few times. There are twists and turns and little easter eggs throughout. The worldbuilding is phenomenal and the author does a great job with the character building and relationships with one another. The magic is unique, and the entire story keeps you guessing. So many secrets! I also liked the tie in of some spiritual and/or religious elements. After that cliffhanger, I cannot wait to find out what happens in Book 2 and how everything unfolds!!!
Please make sure to check your triggers for this read.
Thank you so much Nikki Auberkett for providing me with an ebook of Book 1 in exchange for an honest review.
Wow. This read is amazing. I had no idea what to expect going in, but this hooked me right from the beginning until the end. I was getting a little burned out from the fantasy books I was reading that all started to read the same, and this one invigorated me! It was different, captivating, and adventurous. It is a longer read (at least from ones I’ve been reading lately), so there were a couple times I thought the end was near because it would have been a good cliffhanger, and it kept going (in all the best of ways). The actual cliffhanger though was just oh my gosh...WHAT?! Absolutely no complaints here. I loved everything about it and was pleasantly surprised a few times. There are twists and turns and little easter eggs throughout. The worldbuilding is phenomenal and the author does a great job with the character building and relationships with one another. The magic is unique, and the entire story keeps you guessing. So many secrets! I also liked the tie in of some spiritual and/or religious elements. After that cliffhanger, I cannot wait to find out what happens in Book 2 and how everything unfolds!!!
Please make sure to check your triggers for this read.
Thank you so much Nikki Auberkett for providing me with an ebook of Book 1 in exchange for an honest review.
April 12, 2025
First in a series, Ithandryll, by Nikki Auberkett, takes you on a journey of empowerment, desire, and determination. Roxana Lovegood has overcome obstacles that we can only imagine. Not long after moving to Chicago she finds herself in a magical realm she believed existed only in fairy tales and her dreams. Unsure of how she got there, Roxi searches for civilization only to enter a race that she was not intended to be a part of. She meets Devon, a fae whom she soon learns she has no choice to travel with to get home, frustrates the crap out of her, and yet can’t resist.
Auberkett does an amazing job and keeping you engaged and only wanting more. Through Roxi and Devon we are reminded that everyone has their own insecurities and hidden secrets, afraid to let them show. Throughout their travels to get Roxi home (alive I might add) we see their relationship evolve as Roxi becomes empowered to make changes all the while Devon realizes he doesn’t want her to leave.
I’ve come to love fantasy romance books and this one did not disappoint. The descriptions of the fae realm had me feel as if I was there. The magic, twists and turns of the story, ah! Perfect. Plus the cliffhanger at the end, dear goodness! I’m ready for book two!!
Reasons why I love this:
✨ Empowerment
✨ Fae Realm
✨ Second Chances
✨ Little Spice
✨ Tension
Auberkett does an amazing job and keeping you engaged and only wanting more. Through Roxi and Devon we are reminded that everyone has their own insecurities and hidden secrets, afraid to let them show. Throughout their travels to get Roxi home (alive I might add) we see their relationship evolve as Roxi becomes empowered to make changes all the while Devon realizes he doesn’t want her to leave.
I’ve come to love fantasy romance books and this one did not disappoint. The descriptions of the fae realm had me feel as if I was there. The magic, twists and turns of the story, ah! Perfect. Plus the cliffhanger at the end, dear goodness! I’m ready for book two!!
Reasons why I love this:
✨ Empowerment
✨ Fae Realm
✨ Second Chances
✨ Little Spice
✨ Tension
April 4, 2023
a wonderful read!
Ithandryll is a captivating and imaginative story by author Nikki Auberkett. The book follows the journey of Roxi Lovegood, who is transported into the world of Ithandryll and is immediately thrown into the spell of its beauty, questionable practices, and a very sexy elf named Devon.
The story is creatively crafted and unique, with a richly-detailed and vividly-imagined world that will leave readers spellbound. The characters are well-developed and relatable, particularly Roxi, who is portrayed with such depth that she felt like a friend.
The storytelling and pacing in Ithandryll are excellent, with a mix of action, adventure, and emotional depth that keeps the reader engaged throughout. Auberkett is an exceptionally talented writer, and it shows in the way she creates a fully-realized world that feels both believable and fantastical.
Overall, Ithandryll is a fantastic read for lovers of fantasy, romance, and adventure. I can’t wait to read more about Roxi and Devon as they continue their journey.
Ithandryll is a captivating and imaginative story by author Nikki Auberkett. The book follows the journey of Roxi Lovegood, who is transported into the world of Ithandryll and is immediately thrown into the spell of its beauty, questionable practices, and a very sexy elf named Devon.
The story is creatively crafted and unique, with a richly-detailed and vividly-imagined world that will leave readers spellbound. The characters are well-developed and relatable, particularly Roxi, who is portrayed with such depth that she felt like a friend.
The storytelling and pacing in Ithandryll are excellent, with a mix of action, adventure, and emotional depth that keeps the reader engaged throughout. Auberkett is an exceptionally talented writer, and it shows in the way she creates a fully-realized world that feels both believable and fantastical.
Overall, Ithandryll is a fantastic read for lovers of fantasy, romance, and adventure. I can’t wait to read more about Roxi and Devon as they continue their journey.
March 26, 2025
** Arc review **
4,5 stars.
This book was such a nice read. While the "human girl ending up in the magical world" trope has been done so many times before, Nikki really makes it into a unique story with stunning worldbuilding. I loved how the book bases the fae and their world on the myths of the Irish.
The characters were interesting, Roxy could make up her mind a bit more regarding whether she wants to come across as weak or strong, but overall she was a good FMC.
For me the book flowed really well and the cliffhanger at the end really made me want more.
4,5 stars.
This book was such a nice read. While the "human girl ending up in the magical world" trope has been done so many times before, Nikki really makes it into a unique story with stunning worldbuilding. I loved how the book bases the fae and their world on the myths of the Irish.
The characters were interesting, Roxy could make up her mind a bit more regarding whether she wants to come across as weak or strong, but overall she was a good FMC.
For me the book flowed really well and the cliffhanger at the end really made me want more.
March 29, 2025
Rating:
4.7 / 5
Spice level:
🌶️ 🌶️
Short After-Thought:
The pacing is perfect in that it is not rushed or dragged along. It keeps you very entrained, to the point you can't put it down because you need to know what comes next. I love how Irish folklore was slowly introduced into the story. There are some mentions of Christian belief. It is a nice blend of fantasy and romance. Devon and Roxi develop a relationship throughout the book. I do adore how Devon flirts with Roxi. Devon is just a cutie pookie.
4.7 / 5
Spice level:
🌶️ 🌶️
Short After-Thought:
The pacing is perfect in that it is not rushed or dragged along. It keeps you very entrained, to the point you can't put it down because you need to know what comes next. I love how Irish folklore was slowly introduced into the story. There are some mentions of Christian belief. It is a nice blend of fantasy and romance. Devon and Roxi develop a relationship throughout the book. I do adore how Devon flirts with Roxi. Devon is just a cutie pookie.
March 31, 2025
Easily one of my favorite books I’ve read this year and I honestly would put this in my top ten of all time because it’s just that good. I didn’t have a lot of expectations going in but the first couple chapters managed to hook me in and I DEVOURED this book. It had me feeling all the good things with Devon and Roxi’s relationship, really enjoyed the minimal spice. Also can we talk about that plot twist?? SHOOK. Cannot wait for the second book to release!!
April 13, 2024
3.75 stars. Because there was SO much going on. And so little answers given!
Overall I loved the storyline, and I really want to know the answers to all my many questions.
Overall I loved the storyline, and I really want to know the answers to all my many questions.
May 27, 2024
DNF’d by the 3rd chapter. I’d give negative stars if I could
February 14, 2023
Intriguing worldbuilding and characters, but seems a bit passive at the start
Trigger warnings for slavery, rape and domestic violence
The most important thing to say about this book is that I enjoyed it, even though it is from a genre that I don’t usually read. That’s down to Auberkett’s deep worldbuilding and characters with enough secrets to keep the story twisting. It’s also important to point out that despite its weighty 150,000-word length, it kept me interested right to the end.
The story follows Roxanne (Roxi), trying to set up home in Chicago after a very unpleasant break-up but quickly drifts into the realm of the paranormal when she encounters people and creatures she had thought were only myths, and then finds herself dumped into one challenging situation after another in the delightful and terrifying land of the fae. As a main character I sometimes found Roxi to be a bit too passive for me, especially in the first half of the book or so. It seemed that she spent most of that part of the story just following along in the shadow of her protector rather than trying to make any kind of plans for herself. When she does take action it often seems to come from nowhere and several incidents left me confused as to how and why she chose to do what she did. As the story progressed, Roxi did begin to take charge of her own life, and at this point the book became much more enjoyable. The pace and stakes continued to increase until some shattering revelations and a cliff-hanger at the end.
I’m not a student of Irish culture or myths, so I can’t say how much of the world-building was lifted directly and how much was created for this story, but on the whole the world feels consistent and fairly logical in a ren-faire, horses, swords, and indoor plumbing kind of way. At least Auberkett takes time to explain some of why the world is like this. There is magic, used well for mundane tasks such as room lighting as well as the flashy magic battles and teleportation, but I could not find any evidence of a “science of magic” tying it together. The culture of the fae realm is complex and sometimes confusing, flipping from high-technology liberal one moment to feudal oppression the next. This book is apparently the first in a trilogy, though, and there will presumably be more exploration of the setting in future books.
Despite this book’s quirks, I am interested enough to look forward to the next one.
Trigger warnings for slavery, rape and domestic violence
The most important thing to say about this book is that I enjoyed it, even though it is from a genre that I don’t usually read. That’s down to Auberkett’s deep worldbuilding and characters with enough secrets to keep the story twisting. It’s also important to point out that despite its weighty 150,000-word length, it kept me interested right to the end.
The story follows Roxanne (Roxi), trying to set up home in Chicago after a very unpleasant break-up but quickly drifts into the realm of the paranormal when she encounters people and creatures she had thought were only myths, and then finds herself dumped into one challenging situation after another in the delightful and terrifying land of the fae. As a main character I sometimes found Roxi to be a bit too passive for me, especially in the first half of the book or so. It seemed that she spent most of that part of the story just following along in the shadow of her protector rather than trying to make any kind of plans for herself. When she does take action it often seems to come from nowhere and several incidents left me confused as to how and why she chose to do what she did. As the story progressed, Roxi did begin to take charge of her own life, and at this point the book became much more enjoyable. The pace and stakes continued to increase until some shattering revelations and a cliff-hanger at the end.
I’m not a student of Irish culture or myths, so I can’t say how much of the world-building was lifted directly and how much was created for this story, but on the whole the world feels consistent and fairly logical in a ren-faire, horses, swords, and indoor plumbing kind of way. At least Auberkett takes time to explain some of why the world is like this. There is magic, used well for mundane tasks such as room lighting as well as the flashy magic battles and teleportation, but I could not find any evidence of a “science of magic” tying it together. The culture of the fae realm is complex and sometimes confusing, flipping from high-technology liberal one moment to feudal oppression the next. This book is apparently the first in a trilogy, though, and there will presumably be more exploration of the setting in future books.
Despite this book’s quirks, I am interested enough to look forward to the next one.
June 7, 2025
Link to our Indie Ink Spotlight: https://whttr.beehiiv.com/p/indie-ink...
“A spellbinding debut that braids myth, memory, and emotional truth.”
We were completely pulled into Ithandryll from the first few pages—and not just because of the magic. Nikki Auberkett has written a fantasy novel that’s as much about personal reckoning as it is about Sidhe politics or fae worldbuilding. This book doesn’t just create a new realm—it reopens old wounds, examines them, and asks what healing really looks like when no one else noticed the damage in the first place.
Roxi, the lead character, is fierce in quiet ways. She doesn’t swing a sword or channel explosive powers—she survives, questions, observes, and remembers. And in a story like this, that’s the most powerful form of resistance. There’s one scene in particular (you’ll know it when you get there) that left all of us gutted in the best way: raw, brave, and too real to be just fiction.
The mythology is immersive, the pacing deliberate, and the emotional weight earned. We appreciated how the story balances introspection with tension—always pulling us deeper into a world that feels mythic but personal. It’s not just about what happens. It’s about what wasn’t said—what was ignored, forgotten, or buried.
Ithandryll is a debut that doesn’t ask for attention—it commands it. And we’re so glad we followed the call.
🔦 Note for fellow readers: this book includes themes of trauma, grief, and emotional abuse—handled with honesty and depth. If you're drawn to stories that sit with hard truths and still make space for magic, you’ll want to make time for this one.
“A spellbinding debut that braids myth, memory, and emotional truth.”
We were completely pulled into Ithandryll from the first few pages—and not just because of the magic. Nikki Auberkett has written a fantasy novel that’s as much about personal reckoning as it is about Sidhe politics or fae worldbuilding. This book doesn’t just create a new realm—it reopens old wounds, examines them, and asks what healing really looks like when no one else noticed the damage in the first place.
Roxi, the lead character, is fierce in quiet ways. She doesn’t swing a sword or channel explosive powers—she survives, questions, observes, and remembers. And in a story like this, that’s the most powerful form of resistance. There’s one scene in particular (you’ll know it when you get there) that left all of us gutted in the best way: raw, brave, and too real to be just fiction.
The mythology is immersive, the pacing deliberate, and the emotional weight earned. We appreciated how the story balances introspection with tension—always pulling us deeper into a world that feels mythic but personal. It’s not just about what happens. It’s about what wasn’t said—what was ignored, forgotten, or buried.
Ithandryll is a debut that doesn’t ask for attention—it commands it. And we’re so glad we followed the call.
🔦 Note for fellow readers: this book includes themes of trauma, grief, and emotional abuse—handled with honesty and depth. If you're drawn to stories that sit with hard truths and still make space for magic, you’ll want to make time for this one.
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