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Reflections of Lilje Damselfly
When a mysterious ailment refuses to leave water nymph Lilje, her father sends her to a human spa retreat. Lilje quickly discovers she has a lot to learn about human nature and culture when she accidentally scandalises the Edwardian spa guests by showing up undressed.
In hope of relieving her chronic pain and fatigue, she tries her best to fit in and silence her ability to speak with the elements, plants, and animals around her. But when the secret of her heritage is revealed and Lilje falls in love with a human, she faces a difficult choice. Give up everything she thought she was, or live forever in pain and regret of what could have been.
Reflections of Lilje Damselfly is a short standalone novel set in a magical version of early 20th century England.
In hope of relieving her chronic pain and fatigue, she tries her best to fit in and silence her ability to speak with the elements, plants, and animals around her. But when the secret of her heritage is revealed and Lilje falls in love with a human, she faces a difficult choice. Give up everything she thought she was, or live forever in pain and regret of what could have been.
Reflections of Lilje Damselfly is a short standalone novel set in a magical version of early 20th century England.
219 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 23, 2025
4 people are currently reading
237 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
June 23, 2025
Oh wow, I can't say I ever thought I needed a cozy, queer romantic fantasy about a chronically ill water nymph going to a human spa retreat in a magical version of Edwardian England, but here we are. Reflections of Lilje Damselfly is just so warm and gentle and tender and breathtakingly beautiful and yes, maybe also a bit tragic and bittersweet, but then ultimately still so full of heart and hope and... ah, it's just such a balm to the soul!
Lilje's intimately vulnerable retrospective first person narration just flowed like water and immediately drew me in, and I loved experiencing the human world (especially during the Edwardian period with all its silly customs and etiquettes) through her outsider perspective. Also, can someone please explain to me why this socially awkward water nymph is more relatable to me than 99% of the human characters I have ever read about? It's fine, I am fine.
The nuance and depth of the character work is just beyond impressive, and I especially appreciated the authentic representation of chronic illness/pain through Lilje's eyes; it's an inescapable monster in Lilje's life, but at the same time it's not her entire personality and she learns ways to make life as pleasant as possible, which was so empowering to see.
Moreover, the side characters absolutely pop off the page with personality, and I loved the development of all the beautiful, heartfelt relationships (be they familial or romantic) that lie at the core of this story. Especially the vivacious Mel just absolutely stole the show for me, and I fell just as hard for her as Lilje did... hello sapphic yearning!!
The ending maybe felt a bit rushed compared to the slow and contemplative vibe of the rest of the story, but ultimately the emotional beats still landed and I left feeling utterly satisfied with this short standalone adventure. Kelda's lush, atmospheric prose and lively imagination absolutely captured my heart in Reflections of Lilje Damselfly, so now I am even more excited to check out her other works. I can't recommend this short little gem highly enough, especially if your heart needs a little warm hug.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Lilje's intimately vulnerable retrospective first person narration just flowed like water and immediately drew me in, and I loved experiencing the human world (especially during the Edwardian period with all its silly customs and etiquettes) through her outsider perspective. Also, can someone please explain to me why this socially awkward water nymph is more relatable to me than 99% of the human characters I have ever read about? It's fine, I am fine.
The nuance and depth of the character work is just beyond impressive, and I especially appreciated the authentic representation of chronic illness/pain through Lilje's eyes; it's an inescapable monster in Lilje's life, but at the same time it's not her entire personality and she learns ways to make life as pleasant as possible, which was so empowering to see.
Moreover, the side characters absolutely pop off the page with personality, and I loved the development of all the beautiful, heartfelt relationships (be they familial or romantic) that lie at the core of this story. Especially the vivacious Mel just absolutely stole the show for me, and I fell just as hard for her as Lilje did... hello sapphic yearning!!
The ending maybe felt a bit rushed compared to the slow and contemplative vibe of the rest of the story, but ultimately the emotional beats still landed and I left feeling utterly satisfied with this short standalone adventure. Kelda's lush, atmospheric prose and lively imagination absolutely captured my heart in Reflections of Lilje Damselfly, so now I am even more excited to check out her other works. I can't recommend this short little gem highly enough, especially if your heart needs a little warm hug.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
September 4, 2025
Absolutely fantastic
Wow this was excellent. Honestly one of the best books I’ve read all year. Great prose, great world building, and it’s the perfect length. Not a single page felt wasted. This is simply a wonderful story
Wow this was excellent. Honestly one of the best books I’ve read all year. Great prose, great world building, and it’s the perfect length. Not a single page felt wasted. This is simply a wonderful story
February 9, 2026
Reflections of Lilje Damselfly is a cozy and magical story that explores themes of love, queerness, chronic pain, and self acceptance.
Things I loved about Reflections of Lilje Damselfly:
•The way that the narrative voice shifts from ethereal, where everything feels like you are immersed in a dreamy water landscape, to more straightforward and human as Lilje goes through her transformations was one of my favorite aspects of this story.
•Yearning, pining lesbians! I fully appreciated that for Lilje the attraction and love she felt toward Mel was always natural and never something she should be ashamed of. Mel…poor Mel, I would love to read this story through her POV, that poor woman was GOING through it.
•The Happily Ever After. The ending was not what I expected to it be! It made me cry. Books don’t do that very often. The delivery was so tender and real, and I believe it is an ending that would move most people.
Things I loved about Reflections of Lilje Damselfly:
•The way that the narrative voice shifts from ethereal, where everything feels like you are immersed in a dreamy water landscape, to more straightforward and human as Lilje goes through her transformations was one of my favorite aspects of this story.
•Yearning, pining lesbians! I fully appreciated that for Lilje the attraction and love she felt toward Mel was always natural and never something she should be ashamed of. Mel…poor Mel, I would love to read this story through her POV, that poor woman was GOING through it.
•The Happily Ever After. The ending was not what I expected to it be! It made me cry. Books don’t do that very often. The delivery was so tender and real, and I believe it is an ending that would move most people.
February 13, 2026
A Beautiful atmospheric sapphic book
Review of Reflections of Lilje Damselfly
By Natalie Kelda
I’ve had this lovely book on my radar for a while, and having been the fortunate winner of a giveaway which this was part of, I dove right in. I also have the ebook, so I can write this review on Amazon.
We start off with the lovely and endearing fmc, Lilje, who is a water nymph, living with an increasingly painful body. She languidly lies in the silt of the large pond where she lives out her days with the various water creatures who inhabit it with her. Including her father, who is trying to help to relieve her pain, which causes him to take drastic measures.
The prose feels weighted with light, and damp, and all the feelings that Lilje is experiencing. She has been sent to a place, a spa, which has healing waters which her father, and the owner of the spa, Veronica, hope will help. I do not wish to spoil anything here, but Veronica knows much more about what ails Lilje than one would expect. Also, the nymphs can be on land in a human form, but only for short spells of time, and never too far from their home waters.
The other character who is of great importance to the story is Mel, and she is one who helps to care for Lilje while she becomes accustomed to what being human entails. She helps her dress in the highly confining clothing of the day, which includes corsets, chemises, under and over skirts, blouses, jackets, hats, gloves, and SHOES. None of which Lilje has ever worn before.
The friendship between them grows, and becomes such a lovely thing to see develop into something deeper. Lilje has never felt these emotions and feelings before, and she is afraid of scaring Mel off, until she learns they are reciprocated.
For some context, this is set in Edwardian England, so any sort of romantic relationships were not allowed between people of the same sex. So they must be very careful. The way their budding attraction grows, is written so beautifully! And it didn’t feel forced in any way. It was the most natural progression.
But during the course of Lille’s treatments, secrets are shared, and Veronica shares the most shattering and painful one.
This is a love letter written to Mel by Lilje, in its purest form. It’s so atmospheric, bringing the reader right into the lush scenery, the stiffly formal social norms of the day, the scents of the flowers that are growing in abundance. The gentlest of touches between the two women who are from different worlds. This is a heartbreaking, moving, beautiful sapphic tale which left me sitting in a profound, slightly melancholic state. The manner in which they must share their lives is just wrenching, and made me admittedly shed tears when I finished reading this.
I cannot be any more emphatic in recommending this book to anyone and everyone! Please, get yourself into a cozy spot to read it, with something warm to sip, and maybe a furry companion to snuggle with. It needs to be read and shared with others far and wide!
Review of Reflections of Lilje Damselfly
By Natalie Kelda
I’ve had this lovely book on my radar for a while, and having been the fortunate winner of a giveaway which this was part of, I dove right in. I also have the ebook, so I can write this review on Amazon.
We start off with the lovely and endearing fmc, Lilje, who is a water nymph, living with an increasingly painful body. She languidly lies in the silt of the large pond where she lives out her days with the various water creatures who inhabit it with her. Including her father, who is trying to help to relieve her pain, which causes him to take drastic measures.
The prose feels weighted with light, and damp, and all the feelings that Lilje is experiencing. She has been sent to a place, a spa, which has healing waters which her father, and the owner of the spa, Veronica, hope will help. I do not wish to spoil anything here, but Veronica knows much more about what ails Lilje than one would expect. Also, the nymphs can be on land in a human form, but only for short spells of time, and never too far from their home waters.
The other character who is of great importance to the story is Mel, and she is one who helps to care for Lilje while she becomes accustomed to what being human entails. She helps her dress in the highly confining clothing of the day, which includes corsets, chemises, under and over skirts, blouses, jackets, hats, gloves, and SHOES. None of which Lilje has ever worn before.
The friendship between them grows, and becomes such a lovely thing to see develop into something deeper. Lilje has never felt these emotions and feelings before, and she is afraid of scaring Mel off, until she learns they are reciprocated.
For some context, this is set in Edwardian England, so any sort of romantic relationships were not allowed between people of the same sex. So they must be very careful. The way their budding attraction grows, is written so beautifully! And it didn’t feel forced in any way. It was the most natural progression.
But during the course of Lille’s treatments, secrets are shared, and Veronica shares the most shattering and painful one.
This is a love letter written to Mel by Lilje, in its purest form. It’s so atmospheric, bringing the reader right into the lush scenery, the stiffly formal social norms of the day, the scents of the flowers that are growing in abundance. The gentlest of touches between the two women who are from different worlds. This is a heartbreaking, moving, beautiful sapphic tale which left me sitting in a profound, slightly melancholic state. The manner in which they must share their lives is just wrenching, and made me admittedly shed tears when I finished reading this.
I cannot be any more emphatic in recommending this book to anyone and everyone! Please, get yourself into a cozy spot to read it, with something warm to sip, and maybe a furry companion to snuggle with. It needs to be read and shared with others far and wide!
June 24, 2025
Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of Reflections of Lilje Damselfly! As always, all opinions are my own and this review is being left voluntarily. ✨
4.5 stars rounded up
✨ Sapphic Historical Fantasy
✨ First Person POV
✨ 0.5/5 Spice Level
✨ Water Nymph x Human
✨ Shorter Read
✨ Standalone
✨ Rep: chronic illness rep
> content warnings after review
I barely know where to start with this review, but it has been a while since I’ve read a book like this. The writing almost felt ethereal (very fitting for the book). While it’s a short book, I felt like I needed to take my time while reading to full absorb and appreciate each line within the story. To some extent, there are “cozy” vibes because the overarching story isn’t action filled, and the plot more so follows the main character, Lilje, trying to improve her illness. As opposed to “cozy” the book felt somewhat heavy to me. Like a weighted blanket a bit heavier than it’s supposed to be: comforting, yes, but a bit suffocating. Perhaps this should be credited to the author for being able to allow me to feel part of what Lilje was feeling every day. I thought it to be a great depiction of chronic illness. And the ending… well, I cried a bit for more than one reason. A very heartfelt story that stands out among a lot of the other sapphic literature I’ve read.
(beware potential spoilers below)
Content Warnings
(may not be all inclusive)
time period related homophobia, amnesia of a magical nature, witch hunts (mentioned), scars, natural de*th
4.5 stars rounded up
✨ Sapphic Historical Fantasy
✨ First Person POV
✨ 0.5/5 Spice Level
✨ Water Nymph x Human
✨ Shorter Read
✨ Standalone
✨ Rep: chronic illness rep
> content warnings after review
I barely know where to start with this review, but it has been a while since I’ve read a book like this. The writing almost felt ethereal (very fitting for the book). While it’s a short book, I felt like I needed to take my time while reading to full absorb and appreciate each line within the story. To some extent, there are “cozy” vibes because the overarching story isn’t action filled, and the plot more so follows the main character, Lilje, trying to improve her illness. As opposed to “cozy” the book felt somewhat heavy to me. Like a weighted blanket a bit heavier than it’s supposed to be: comforting, yes, but a bit suffocating. Perhaps this should be credited to the author for being able to allow me to feel part of what Lilje was feeling every day. I thought it to be a great depiction of chronic illness. And the ending… well, I cried a bit for more than one reason. A very heartfelt story that stands out among a lot of the other sapphic literature I’ve read.
(beware potential spoilers below)
Content Warnings
(may not be all inclusive)
time period related homophobia, amnesia of a magical nature, witch hunts (mentioned), scars, natural de*th
February 12, 2026
Reflections of Lilje Damselfly has a solid idea. Lilje is a water nymph suffering from a chronic illness and constant pain. Her father sends her to an Edwardian spa retreat to live among humans and, hopefully, get better. This means learning human customs, clothing (important), and social norms. Some of this is played for gentle humor, and it mostly works.
Lilje is a likable protagonist. Her illness forces her to leave her family and familiar surroundings, and that sense of loss comes through. The book takes a warm, affirming approach to disability and chronic pain, and despite the subject matter, the overall tone stays light and comforting. There’s also a sapphic romance, which develops without much melodrama (well, there's just a bit of it). This is very much a feel-good story.
Unfortunately, the execution didn’t work for me. The stakes are close to non-existent, and there’s no real urgency to the plot. Things happen, but rarely feel like they matter much. The characters are pleasant but shallow, and most of them don’t develop beyond a single defining trait. Even at just over 200 pages, the book feels over-written*. There’s a lot of description, a lot of explanation, and very little momentum.
I understand the story is, above all, about coping with disability and it can be therapeutical. With that said, I wasn't impressed by writing about disability. Lilje tells us she’s in pain. Often. But we rarely feel it through the scenes themselves. Combined with the slow pacing, this made the reading experience feel flat.
If you’re looking for an easy, cozy read with a warm take on disability, self-acceptance, and finding love despite hardship and illness, this might work for you. If you’re hoping for tension, depth, or a tighter plotting, it probably won’t.
* After checking GR reviews, I'm definitely in the minority. Most readers loved lyrical writing.
March 5, 2025
I wish to thank the author for offering me an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
When I first got a an initial behind the scenes peek of the artwork, I knew I was going to vibe with this book without even knowing the plot. And once again, Natalie does not disappoint elevated reader's expectations!
Lilje Damselfly contrary to my initial expectations of being a story about a bored woman toiling away in a fancy spa is more a story about family, resilience and self exploration. Lilje's perfect life as a nymph enjoying playing with water and observing wildlife alongside her father withers away due to a mysterious chronic illness that will inevitably kill her.
Hopeful her life can be saved, her father visits the one person who can help: a strange middle aged woman named Veronica who owns a luxury wellness spa in rural Victorian age Britain. Even though the reader expects a magical water being to suffer from culture shock, Lilje's bewildered behavior regarding human prudishness and societal rules was just as enjoyable for the reader as frustrating to her.
She's sweet, innocent and good hearted, while trying to remain positive despite periods of convalescence from her disease. At times, Lilje reminded me of Muteo from an anime called Blue Submarine No. 6 except she is better equipped to live among humans. Curiously, for the first few chapters of the book, I didn't have a good idea how tall Lilje is. I assumed she was the size of a teacup which made me feel confused when she is offered human clothes for the first time. ^_^'
We get to meet various other colorful characters along the way. Veronica is haughty and mysterious, whose scenes are unfortunately cut short (I would have liked for her to have more screen time), along with the uncouth employee Mel and a dashing male Lord named Mr. Tannenbridge (I might have spelled it wrong). Mel was lovely, and so was the nobleman.
I don't wish to spoil too much about the book, but I feel very enthusiastic to have been one of the first readers and have high hopes other readers will enjoy it as well.
4 1/2 stars!
When I first got a an initial behind the scenes peek of the artwork, I knew I was going to vibe with this book without even knowing the plot. And once again, Natalie does not disappoint elevated reader's expectations!
Lilje Damselfly contrary to my initial expectations of being a story about a bored woman toiling away in a fancy spa is more a story about family, resilience and self exploration. Lilje's perfect life as a nymph enjoying playing with water and observing wildlife alongside her father withers away due to a mysterious chronic illness that will inevitably kill her.
Hopeful her life can be saved, her father visits the one person who can help: a strange middle aged woman named Veronica who owns a luxury wellness spa in rural Victorian age Britain. Even though the reader expects a magical water being to suffer from culture shock, Lilje's bewildered behavior regarding human prudishness and societal rules was just as enjoyable for the reader as frustrating to her.
She's sweet, innocent and good hearted, while trying to remain positive despite periods of convalescence from her disease. At times, Lilje reminded me of Muteo from an anime called Blue Submarine No. 6 except she is better equipped to live among humans. Curiously, for the first few chapters of the book, I didn't have a good idea how tall Lilje is. I assumed she was the size of a teacup which made me feel confused when she is offered human clothes for the first time. ^_^'
We get to meet various other colorful characters along the way. Veronica is haughty and mysterious, whose scenes are unfortunately cut short (I would have liked for her to have more screen time), along with the uncouth employee Mel and a dashing male Lord named Mr. Tannenbridge (I might have spelled it wrong). Mel was lovely, and so was the nobleman.
I don't wish to spoil too much about the book, but I feel very enthusiastic to have been one of the first readers and have high hopes other readers will enjoy it as well.
4 1/2 stars!
December 27, 2025
3.5
2025 reads: 342/300
afflicted by a mysterious ailment, water nymph lilje is sent to a human spa retreat, where she soon learns she has much to learn about human culture. though she misses calling to the water, she’s ready to be rid of her chronic pain and fatigue, and she’s sure this will just be temporary. when she learns more about her heritage and starts falling in love with a human, though, she realizes returning to the water may not be a viable option.
i had no idea what to expect going into this, as i had received it in a fox & wit box a while ago. this ended up being some of my favorite chronic illness rep, and i loved how it was handled through the lens of fantasy. it was slower-paced than what i’m used to reading, but i thought this made perfect sense for lilje’s journey. i also thought the romance was so sweet! i would recommend this book to anyone wanting a short fantasy read featuring a sapphic, chronically ill mc.
2025 reads: 342/300
afflicted by a mysterious ailment, water nymph lilje is sent to a human spa retreat, where she soon learns she has much to learn about human culture. though she misses calling to the water, she’s ready to be rid of her chronic pain and fatigue, and she’s sure this will just be temporary. when she learns more about her heritage and starts falling in love with a human, though, she realizes returning to the water may not be a viable option.
i had no idea what to expect going into this, as i had received it in a fox & wit box a while ago. this ended up being some of my favorite chronic illness rep, and i loved how it was handled through the lens of fantasy. it was slower-paced than what i’m used to reading, but i thought this made perfect sense for lilje’s journey. i also thought the romance was so sweet! i would recommend this book to anyone wanting a short fantasy read featuring a sapphic, chronically ill mc.
April 18, 2025
I just finished reading this ARC (currently crying and sobbing over the beautiful ending, thanks for asking); where do I even start?
I read the first book of Natalie's series, and was so excited when I managed to get this ARC copy. At the beginning of the book, though, I struggled a little to understand the world we were in and fully immerse myself. I was worried because Natalie is a friend of mine and I love her books so much. I think my reading slump was to blame, though, because things took a turn when I was 15%!
Lilje, god, she is so easy to love! Her humor had me dying laughing at least twenty times, and her pain broke my heart every time. Her perspective on the human world made me think about my life and how I see the world, which was so interesting.
Natalie writes about mental health so, so well. The same was applicable in her last book, and it was true here too. I loved the chronic pain angle of the story, and it made me feel seen in some ways. I rooted for Lilje the whole time through!
But ultimately, you know who stole my heart and never returned it? Mel! Oh gosh, the perfect human ever, I swear! Their romance had me kicking and giggling, and I am so bittersweet about that ending. The chemistry between the two was written so well!
Learning about Lilje's past was an interesting angle, and so was the spa in general. I don't read much fantasy lately, as it is not something I understand much, but this book was so easy to read and get lost in. Once I got past the initial struggle, I found myself thoroughly in love!
If you are on the hunt for a cozy fantasy that will keep you hooked until the end, you will love this one. The world is beautiful, and the characters are to die for!
Final Rating: 4.5 rounded up to 5
I read the first book of Natalie's series, and was so excited when I managed to get this ARC copy. At the beginning of the book, though, I struggled a little to understand the world we were in and fully immerse myself. I was worried because Natalie is a friend of mine and I love her books so much. I think my reading slump was to blame, though, because things took a turn when I was 15%!
Lilje, god, she is so easy to love! Her humor had me dying laughing at least twenty times, and her pain broke my heart every time. Her perspective on the human world made me think about my life and how I see the world, which was so interesting.
Natalie writes about mental health so, so well. The same was applicable in her last book, and it was true here too. I loved the chronic pain angle of the story, and it made me feel seen in some ways. I rooted for Lilje the whole time through!
But ultimately, you know who stole my heart and never returned it? Mel! Oh gosh, the perfect human ever, I swear! Their romance had me kicking and giggling, and I am so bittersweet about that ending. The chemistry between the two was written so well!
Learning about Lilje's past was an interesting angle, and so was the spa in general. I don't read much fantasy lately, as it is not something I understand much, but this book was so easy to read and get lost in. Once I got past the initial struggle, I found myself thoroughly in love!
If you are on the hunt for a cozy fantasy that will keep you hooked until the end, you will love this one. The world is beautiful, and the characters are to die for!
Final Rating: 4.5 rounded up to 5
September 23, 2025
“You can learn to enjoy life, even if it might never look like it did before you fell ill.”
I enjoyed that story a lot. It mixes historical romance with fantasy, and the writing is just perfect, spot on and tenderly lyrical. Chronic disease is discussed with a lot of care, in this poetical metaphor, setting up a nymph who experiences chronic pain, avoiding her to live in the water. I loved that slight distance, how it allowed the author to talk about the “new life” you are forced to engage in once you’re ill. As someone who experiences chronic pain for decades now, Lilje’s experience resonated deeply in me, the grief (about her life “from before”) she has to face, especially. Her metamorphose all along the book, to become a new version of herself, through a certain form of thermalism, but also —and mostly— thanks to the romance. The love story is soft, delicate and beautiful like a lily, and adds a a tragic side just as much as it gives hope. Truly a beautiful story.
4.5/5
I enjoyed that story a lot. It mixes historical romance with fantasy, and the writing is just perfect, spot on and tenderly lyrical. Chronic disease is discussed with a lot of care, in this poetical metaphor, setting up a nymph who experiences chronic pain, avoiding her to live in the water. I loved that slight distance, how it allowed the author to talk about the “new life” you are forced to engage in once you’re ill. As someone who experiences chronic pain for decades now, Lilje’s experience resonated deeply in me, the grief (about her life “from before”) she has to face, especially. Her metamorphose all along the book, to become a new version of herself, through a certain form of thermalism, but also —and mostly— thanks to the romance. The love story is soft, delicate and beautiful like a lily, and adds a a tragic side just as much as it gives hope. Truly a beautiful story.
4.5/5
October 6, 2025
I'm going to need every single person to sop what they're doing and pick up Reflections of Lilje Damselfly IMMEDIATELY. I picked this up on a whim, because it was in one of my book box subscriptions. I did not know anything about this book going in, and I was absolutely blown away. The way Natalie manages to pull out so much emotion in 200 pages is absolute mastery. This book is heartbreakingly beautiful. It's about what it means to lsoe yourself in chronic illness and how to find yourself on the other side. How to stand up for yourself and what you want. How to find and accept love, even when it's forbidden. And how to take the path less traveled, because it might lead to the most beautiful ending.
The fact this book has less than 100 reviews is a crime. This is STUNNING. It's on Kindle Unlimited. Go now. You will absolutely not be disappointed.
The fact this book has less than 100 reviews is a crime. This is STUNNING. It's on Kindle Unlimited. Go now. You will absolutely not be disappointed.
March 30, 2025
I LOVED this story. It's rare that you get to find fantasy that's not medieval, so for me, reading an Edwardian story set in a spa was such a treat. I loved the depiction of Lilje the nymph, and the glorious descriptions of the landscape and nature. I felt that the chronic illness and love interest were built beautifully, and I would love to read more about Lilje's parents and earlier life!
Natalie is an excellent writer, and she's produced something even lovelier than that gorgeous cover. I recommend.
Natalie is an excellent writer, and she's produced something even lovelier than that gorgeous cover. I recommend.
June 23, 2025
This was such a lovely story! I absolutely loved the voice, the characters, and the water nymphs in Edwardian baths aspect of it all. Gotta write the full review, but this was a delight!
April 23, 2025
I received an ARC. I didn't have to leave a review, but I choose to.
Absolutely wonderful story! My only gripe is that it's too short.
I laughed, I cried and I fell in love with the characters. Lilje's fatigue and chronic pain felt relatable, as someone who suffers with chronic pain, albeit of a different nature. Her "fish out of water" story would have been complicated enough in modern times, but the fact that this was set in what I think is Edwardian England with all its dress codes and etiquette rules and whatnot, adds another layer.
Kelda is a phenomenal writer and I'd read anything she writes!
Absolutely wonderful story! My only gripe is that it's too short.
I laughed, I cried and I fell in love with the characters. Lilje's fatigue and chronic pain felt relatable, as someone who suffers with chronic pain, albeit of a different nature. Her "fish out of water" story would have been complicated enough in modern times, but the fact that this was set in what I think is Edwardian England with all its dress codes and etiquette rules and whatnot, adds another layer.
Kelda is a phenomenal writer and I'd read anything she writes!
April 9, 2025
This is a touching story that is profoundly romantic in both subject and tone. It's the sort of gentle but powerful tale that is undervalued in our current society which is a shame. If the activity and noise of life is becoming too much, you will find Reflections of Lilje Damselfly very cathartic. I received an ARC of this novella in exchange for an honest review.
Throughout Reflections, but especially in the beginning, we look at Lilje's world through a poetic, vivid lens. Because of the richness of the first few chapters, you feel the loss with Lilje as she is taken to a drier world where nature is too quiet and humans are too loud.
Lilje, Mel and the supporting cast were all delightful. Lilje's gentle nymph father is devoted to her, even if he can't quite pass for a normal human when in disguise. The stern and resilient Veronica runs the spa where Lilje tries to recover from a mysterious illness. The spa was popular in Victorian times, but as the Edwardian period wears on, it is falling out of vogue. Mel is expressive and warm, and tackles hardships with her characteristic coarse humour. She is also cautious about revealing her feelings, where Lilje is utterly frank. I liked the way Mr Tannbridge was handled. He could have been reduced to an antagonist whose unrequited love presents complications, but he came across as respectful and mature. The mannerisms all felt very true to the period.
When I think of romance as an atmosphere, not just the attraction between characters, I think of contrasts, heightened emotions. The light is more wonderful and the darkness more terrible. That's what defines this story.
I loved the symbolism throughout. Things like the mother swan mourning her partner at the start, just as Lilje mourns her health and past self. I'm sure the many flowers mentioned all hold special meanings. Lilje's connection to the elements does not follow a logical set of rules but is deeply linked to her emotional state. The exact cause of her illness isn't so much the point as how she chooses to live with it. Some things don't have simple answers. When is it right to fight for more time? When is it time to embrace mortality and make the very best of it?
It is sad watching Lilje experience the little losses we accumulate throughout childhood (and adulthood). Learning to feel shame and hide her body. Learning to guard her words. The nymphs seem to be free from the evils that plague humans.
Lilje's health problems impact her identity in a very raw way. She loses abilities that defined her, but she also gains new ones and broadens her understanding of the world. We need permission to be vulnerable. To find acceptance even when our need for care becomes indefinite and carers face struggles of their own. Love comes with sacrifices but it is also what makes life beautiful.
Throughout Reflections, but especially in the beginning, we look at Lilje's world through a poetic, vivid lens. Because of the richness of the first few chapters, you feel the loss with Lilje as she is taken to a drier world where nature is too quiet and humans are too loud.
Lilje, Mel and the supporting cast were all delightful. Lilje's gentle nymph father is devoted to her, even if he can't quite pass for a normal human when in disguise. The stern and resilient Veronica runs the spa where Lilje tries to recover from a mysterious illness. The spa was popular in Victorian times, but as the Edwardian period wears on, it is falling out of vogue. Mel is expressive and warm, and tackles hardships with her characteristic coarse humour. She is also cautious about revealing her feelings, where Lilje is utterly frank. I liked the way Mr Tannbridge was handled. He could have been reduced to an antagonist whose unrequited love presents complications, but he came across as respectful and mature. The mannerisms all felt very true to the period.
When I think of romance as an atmosphere, not just the attraction between characters, I think of contrasts, heightened emotions. The light is more wonderful and the darkness more terrible. That's what defines this story.
I loved the symbolism throughout. Things like the mother swan mourning her partner at the start, just as Lilje mourns her health and past self. I'm sure the many flowers mentioned all hold special meanings. Lilje's connection to the elements does not follow a logical set of rules but is deeply linked to her emotional state. The exact cause of her illness isn't so much the point as how she chooses to live with it. Some things don't have simple answers. When is it right to fight for more time? When is it time to embrace mortality and make the very best of it?
It is sad watching Lilje experience the little losses we accumulate throughout childhood (and adulthood). Learning to feel shame and hide her body. Learning to guard her words. The nymphs seem to be free from the evils that plague humans.
Lilje's health problems impact her identity in a very raw way. She loses abilities that defined her, but she also gains new ones and broadens her understanding of the world. We need permission to be vulnerable. To find acceptance even when our need for care becomes indefinite and carers face struggles of their own. Love comes with sacrifices but it is also what makes life beautiful.
April 8, 2025
Reflections of Lilje Damselfly delivers deeply-realized characters, beautiful countryside scenes, a mama swan, a stubborn pony, poetically-rendered lines, smoothly realistic dialogue, and a tender romance. We watch a water nymph who has never experienced human relationships and a lesbian who must hide her orientation in a repressive society explore their budding attraction. The two of them must learn to communicate and find out whether their emotions are reciprocated, even when this may be dangerous, and even when they themselves are not sure what their emotions are. As a reader, I found it easy to feel what they were feeling every sweet and confusing step of the way. The love story is masterfully plotted, with last-minute crises and disagreements that keep readers in suspense about how things will end.
The main character has recently developed a chronic illness, and her attempts to work through feelings and practical problems related to this are central to the plot. Despite the severity of the MC’s condition, readers get to know her as a three-dimensional person rather than merely as a sufferer. Although the MC achieves successes, the story steers clear of falsely inspiring narratives about overcoming health problems through positivity. Although I cannot speak from experience, I suspect that many readers with chronic conditions will feel seen by this book.
Another of this book’s strengths is the setting. It takes place in the Edwardian era. Clothes, furniture, manners, technology, and other points of reference reflect that time. The details not only seem well-researched, they capture the feel of an earlier historical period.
Lilje’s life as a water nymph is also convincing. There is a great deal of interesting worldbuilding about how her people live, along with intriguing hints about their history. Although her romance is the main story, there are also touching subplots about her relationships with her parents. Overall this is an outstanding book which I highly recommend.
I was honored to receive a free advance review copy of this book.
The main character has recently developed a chronic illness, and her attempts to work through feelings and practical problems related to this are central to the plot. Despite the severity of the MC’s condition, readers get to know her as a three-dimensional person rather than merely as a sufferer. Although the MC achieves successes, the story steers clear of falsely inspiring narratives about overcoming health problems through positivity. Although I cannot speak from experience, I suspect that many readers with chronic conditions will feel seen by this book.
Another of this book’s strengths is the setting. It takes place in the Edwardian era. Clothes, furniture, manners, technology, and other points of reference reflect that time. The details not only seem well-researched, they capture the feel of an earlier historical period.
Lilje’s life as a water nymph is also convincing. There is a great deal of interesting worldbuilding about how her people live, along with intriguing hints about their history. Although her romance is the main story, there are also touching subplots about her relationships with her parents. Overall this is an outstanding book which I highly recommend.
I was honored to receive a free advance review copy of this book.
March 29, 2025
I received an ARC copy of this book and am leaving a review voluntarily.
What a delightfully cozy, introspective tale! I have always loved Kelda’s take on characters and she continues that trend in this story.
Lilje is a nymph forced to live as a human in the hopes of curing her chronic pain. The way we are learning along with Lilje as she uncovers secrets about her past, her origin and explores what her future will be like is a delightful journey. So many emotions here and all conveyed with gorgeous character work. Watching Lilje try to make sense of a life utterly alien to her is wonderful.
The world building, as always, is done well, with attention to detail really driving home a sense of depth. Seeing the contrast of cultures really helps to flesh out both so I felt well adjusted to both by the time the story concluded. I love the prospect of drawbacks when magical and mortal mix and it’s done with such forethought here and droves much of the story.
The prose here is a work of art. The works choice, the way the sentences are laid out—it all serves to show us how much a “fish out of water” that Lilje is and it’s remarkably effective. I love how her dialogue flows, like, well, water. I could listen to her talk all day.
As for her and Mel…well, what a lovely, sweet couple that enjoyed seeing grow closer. The prospect of what makes living worthwhile being the people in it is a concept I will never grow tired of and I have a feeling you’ll enjoy them as much as I did.
This entire story is one that must be absorbed, meditated on, relished. It is not a one and done. It’s s return to again and again so the true beauty of it seeps into the veins. Exactly what I want.
What a delightfully cozy, introspective tale! I have always loved Kelda’s take on characters and she continues that trend in this story.
Lilje is a nymph forced to live as a human in the hopes of curing her chronic pain. The way we are learning along with Lilje as she uncovers secrets about her past, her origin and explores what her future will be like is a delightful journey. So many emotions here and all conveyed with gorgeous character work. Watching Lilje try to make sense of a life utterly alien to her is wonderful.
The world building, as always, is done well, with attention to detail really driving home a sense of depth. Seeing the contrast of cultures really helps to flesh out both so I felt well adjusted to both by the time the story concluded. I love the prospect of drawbacks when magical and mortal mix and it’s done with such forethought here and droves much of the story.
The prose here is a work of art. The works choice, the way the sentences are laid out—it all serves to show us how much a “fish out of water” that Lilje is and it’s remarkably effective. I love how her dialogue flows, like, well, water. I could listen to her talk all day.
As for her and Mel…well, what a lovely, sweet couple that enjoyed seeing grow closer. The prospect of what makes living worthwhile being the people in it is a concept I will never grow tired of and I have a feeling you’ll enjoy them as much as I did.
This entire story is one that must be absorbed, meditated on, relished. It is not a one and done. It’s s return to again and again so the true beauty of it seeps into the veins. Exactly what I want.
August 7, 2025
This is a slow sapphic romance marketed as cozy, I have to admit cozy and chronic illness is a combo that both interested and confused me at first but with being familiar with Natalie's work from her space sci-fi series Inner universe(with a excellent depiction of mental health / anxiety) and with a glowing review from the trustworthy esmay rosalyne 😅 I was ready to jump in.
It centers on water nymph Lilje who struck by a mysterious illness is sent by her father to recover undercover at a victorian like era human spa resort run by the mysterious middle aged Veronica who appears to have some sort of past with father.
From very early on I could see where the cozy comes from as Natalie paints a beautiful relaxing picture of Liljes home and the spa itself, and the illness, that basically serves as main antagonist is handled in a very well done way(Natalie's history herself with long covid no doubt playing a part here)
There's also some little mermaid like humour as Lilje tries to blend in with the human world and hide her true identity from the other guests/employees including eventual love interest Mel,who well, let's say she's not exactly the manner you expect from victorian era lady 😅 but that's part of what makes her and the sweet but shy/anxious Lilje an appealing couple
So yeah,Overall I quite liked this. Without getting into spoilery territory it's not all sunshine and rainbows like some of the cozy marked books, as kind of expected from a chronic illness rep but does(at least in my view) fit that marketing.
It centers on water nymph Lilje who struck by a mysterious illness is sent by her father to recover undercover at a victorian like era human spa resort run by the mysterious middle aged Veronica who appears to have some sort of past with father.
From very early on I could see where the cozy comes from as Natalie paints a beautiful relaxing picture of Liljes home and the spa itself, and the illness, that basically serves as main antagonist is handled in a very well done way(Natalie's history herself with long covid no doubt playing a part here)
There's also some little mermaid like humour as Lilje tries to blend in with the human world and hide her true identity from the other guests/employees including eventual love interest Mel,who well, let's say she's not exactly the manner you expect from victorian era lady 😅 but that's part of what makes her and the sweet but shy/anxious Lilje an appealing couple
So yeah,Overall I quite liked this. Without getting into spoilery territory it's not all sunshine and rainbows like some of the cozy marked books, as kind of expected from a chronic illness rep but does(at least in my view) fit that marketing.
March 19, 2025
This is a meticulously written, beautifully imagined alternative to the Edwardian times where magical creatures walk, secretly, among humans. The language is well crafted, the character voices all distinct and effortless, and the setting lovely, often cozy in execution. While the subject matter is quite serious, the world feels bright, charming, and hopeful.
Without spoilers, the narrative follows the transition of water nymph Lilje from her home in a pond to a spa in the Edwardian countryside. Lilja has fallen ill with a strange malady that she can’t seem to overcome, and perhaps time at this place of healing can help her.
I am a reader and writer living with chronic illness, and I felt deeply seen by this piece. Reflection of Lilje Damselfly is absolutely a book for broad audiences, especially those seeking cozy or sweet romance, queer characters, or historical fantasy, but if you live with a chronic illness or pain, it hits different. There were multiple moments where the story moved me to tears because I thought: oh…that’s me. I’ve been there. I know what she’s going through, I know how that feels. Kelda’s work made me feel less alone.
This book is a recognition of real, lived struggle and a message of hope. I highly recommend this book for its beautiful, but never contrived, prose, cozy environment, and honest approach to the struggle of chronic illness. I hope this book is read far and wide.
Without spoilers, the narrative follows the transition of water nymph Lilje from her home in a pond to a spa in the Edwardian countryside. Lilja has fallen ill with a strange malady that she can’t seem to overcome, and perhaps time at this place of healing can help her.
I am a reader and writer living with chronic illness, and I felt deeply seen by this piece. Reflection of Lilje Damselfly is absolutely a book for broad audiences, especially those seeking cozy or sweet romance, queer characters, or historical fantasy, but if you live with a chronic illness or pain, it hits different. There were multiple moments where the story moved me to tears because I thought: oh…that’s me. I’ve been there. I know what she’s going through, I know how that feels. Kelda’s work made me feel less alone.
This book is a recognition of real, lived struggle and a message of hope. I highly recommend this book for its beautiful, but never contrived, prose, cozy environment, and honest approach to the struggle of chronic illness. I hope this book is read far and wide.
April 13, 2025
This is a gentle, bittersweet romantic historical fantasy, a real “nymph out of water” story. The non-human perspective shines a revealing spotlight on human “rules” and assumptions, while representing disability in a fresh and unusual way.
Lilje is a water nymph, content to spend her immortal existence interacting with nature—water, flowers, insects, waterfowl—and other nymphs. It is a pleasant, effortless life, full of beauty and magic. She doesn’t like humans at all, and hides when they come near her pond. A debilitating illness changes that when the only possible cure lies in living as a human, perhaps permanently. She goes to stay at a hydrothermal spa operated by someone from her father’s past, a time of which Lilje mysteriously has no memory. At the spa, she encounters all kinds of human cultural nonsense, such as clothing, gloves, modesty, embarrassment, gossip, and marriage. She has no interest in marriage, but forbidden love finds her.
The claustrophobia and boredom of Lilje’s room are good illustrations of how much of her freedom and authentic self she was willing to give up for the slight chance of renewed health. I enjoyed her progression from hating humans to pretending to be one to admiring and loving at least some of them. There is much physical and emotional suffering in this story, but through creative arrangements, it comes to a satisfying, if bittersweet, ending.
I received an advance-reader ebook from the author.
Lilje is a water nymph, content to spend her immortal existence interacting with nature—water, flowers, insects, waterfowl—and other nymphs. It is a pleasant, effortless life, full of beauty and magic. She doesn’t like humans at all, and hides when they come near her pond. A debilitating illness changes that when the only possible cure lies in living as a human, perhaps permanently. She goes to stay at a hydrothermal spa operated by someone from her father’s past, a time of which Lilje mysteriously has no memory. At the spa, she encounters all kinds of human cultural nonsense, such as clothing, gloves, modesty, embarrassment, gossip, and marriage. She has no interest in marriage, but forbidden love finds her.
The claustrophobia and boredom of Lilje’s room are good illustrations of how much of her freedom and authentic self she was willing to give up for the slight chance of renewed health. I enjoyed her progression from hating humans to pretending to be one to admiring and loving at least some of them. There is much physical and emotional suffering in this story, but through creative arrangements, it comes to a satisfying, if bittersweet, ending.
I received an advance-reader ebook from the author.
May 30, 2025
A short, romantic tale of a water nymph struggling with chronic illness/pain from Natalie Kelda, author of the Inner Universe science fantasy series. The exploration of chronic illness in a fantasy story is very well placed and necessary; Lilje's thoughts about her illness and her experiences how it affects her life were very touching. I found it strangely relatable and painful, how she needed to choose between two kinds of life, but neither was going to be without physical pain and challenges. Luckily, her relationships with humans and her family (mainly her father, whom I would love to get to know better!) aid her in not losing her will, her love of nature and life.
The romance is very cute, and Mel was lovely, just the type of presence Lilje needed, I think. There's maybe a bit too much complex lore about nymphs that didn't have time to build up and circle around entirely, but it was very interesting, this peek into the life of these creatures. The entire story is very gentle, but very sad -- however, there are some unexpected, humorous moments as well, as Lilje is learning about human customs! I also loved the nature descriptions, it's a very pretty book inside out!
It was lovely to read something different from the author. I have received an ARC of this book, and it did not influence my review.
(And the cover is beautiful, art done by the author!)
The romance is very cute, and Mel was lovely, just the type of presence Lilje needed, I think. There's maybe a bit too much complex lore about nymphs that didn't have time to build up and circle around entirely, but it was very interesting, this peek into the life of these creatures. The entire story is very gentle, but very sad -- however, there are some unexpected, humorous moments as well, as Lilje is learning about human customs! I also loved the nature descriptions, it's a very pretty book inside out!
It was lovely to read something different from the author. I have received an ARC of this book, and it did not influence my review.
(And the cover is beautiful, art done by the author!)
April 14, 2025
I received a digital ARC but this review are my honest opinions.
It is very rare for me to give a book five stars. I often find something that is not perfect. But for me this book was perfect. I never read a book in one day, but this book was finished in just a single one. Why? Because this is the disabled representation I really want to see more of. It shows both the painful realities and regardless of which cards you have been dealt, that you make the best of it. I love how every character has their peculiarities and how they react on stressful situations. I personally also very adored the pacing, which is slow but steady, which feels very fitting in this story. I also liked all the characters in the book, which is a very rare occasion for me. I liked how the love story is handled without it feeling rushed, or that the characters are pushed by the author. I felt that all the characters felt alive and weren't there just for the plot. I personally cannot find anything bad to say about this story, and I thought about it.
I would highly recommend this story. As a disabled person myself, it is hard to feel seen through a story. But this story did just that.
It is very rare for me to give a book five stars. I often find something that is not perfect. But for me this book was perfect. I never read a book in one day, but this book was finished in just a single one. Why? Because this is the disabled representation I really want to see more of. It shows both the painful realities and regardless of which cards you have been dealt, that you make the best of it. I love how every character has their peculiarities and how they react on stressful situations. I personally also very adored the pacing, which is slow but steady, which feels very fitting in this story. I also liked all the characters in the book, which is a very rare occasion for me. I liked how the love story is handled without it feeling rushed, or that the characters are pushed by the author. I felt that all the characters felt alive and weren't there just for the plot. I personally cannot find anything bad to say about this story, and I thought about it.
I would highly recommend this story. As a disabled person myself, it is hard to feel seen through a story. But this story did just that.
November 21, 2025
For the most part I enjoyed this. It was a short, gentle fantasy that had excellent disability/ chronic illness rep. I felt that component was really well done and very realistic. The main character being a water nymph navigating the human world was a unique premise, and I enjoyed how immersive and lush the writing was regarding nature and the environment. I also liked the sapphic rep but wished the relationship was fleshed out a bit more.
That honestly was my main complaint, that certain elements of the narrative seemed lacking because of how short it was. I felt we really got to know Lilje as a character, but we only got glimpses of her family and Mel’s full characters. I also was just honestly confused about everything that had happened with her mother’s past, and the reason for why Lilje’s story ended the way it did. I didn’t think the actual reasoning behind her illness and what was causing it fully made sense to me, even if I thought the depiction of having a chronic illness felt realistic. I think if you are looking for a book with strong disability and/or chronic illness rep this is worth a try. I’m glad I read it, although it’s not a favorite.
That honestly was my main complaint, that certain elements of the narrative seemed lacking because of how short it was. I felt we really got to know Lilje as a character, but we only got glimpses of her family and Mel’s full characters. I also was just honestly confused about everything that had happened with her mother’s past, and the reason for why Lilje’s story ended the way it did. I didn’t think the actual reasoning behind her illness and what was causing it fully made sense to me, even if I thought the depiction of having a chronic illness felt realistic. I think if you are looking for a book with strong disability and/or chronic illness rep this is worth a try. I’m glad I read it, although it’s not a favorite.
January 16, 2026
Sapphic Jane Austen with a main character who happens to secretly be a water nymph, and she’s chronically ill.
In Reflections of Lilje Damselfly a water nymph has to go live as a human for a chance to be cured of chronic pain. We get a nymph’s perspective on human peculiarities and on all the norms and practices that don’t make very much sense and serve little purpose. Humans are strange.
Chronic pain is ever-present in this story. It is a central theme, and the unfairness of it bleeds off every page. Lilje is in this situation through no fault of her own, and she’s having to give up pieces of her life and compromise her pride and autonomy. Her disability leaves her with a broken life and she’s trying to make a worthwhile existence out of the pieces.
An intimate first person point of view makes each scene feel poignant and immediate. The prose is beautiful and the supporting characters, Veronica, Lilje’s father, Mel, and Mr Tanbridge, all feel real, and although we don’t get their pov, it’s clear they all have their own struggles and their own pain.
I loved the romance, very sweet, and just the right amount of slow-burn. And the setting is rich and atmospheric throughout.
ps "the bog hag’s brewery" ;) I see what the author did there. And I love it!
In Reflections of Lilje Damselfly a water nymph has to go live as a human for a chance to be cured of chronic pain. We get a nymph’s perspective on human peculiarities and on all the norms and practices that don’t make very much sense and serve little purpose. Humans are strange.
Chronic pain is ever-present in this story. It is a central theme, and the unfairness of it bleeds off every page. Lilje is in this situation through no fault of her own, and she’s having to give up pieces of her life and compromise her pride and autonomy. Her disability leaves her with a broken life and she’s trying to make a worthwhile existence out of the pieces.
An intimate first person point of view makes each scene feel poignant and immediate. The prose is beautiful and the supporting characters, Veronica, Lilje’s father, Mel, and Mr Tanbridge, all feel real, and although we don’t get their pov, it’s clear they all have their own struggles and their own pain.
I loved the romance, very sweet, and just the right amount of slow-burn. And the setting is rich and atmospheric throughout.
ps "the bog hag’s brewery" ;) I see what the author did there. And I love it!
April 12, 2025
I received an ARC of this book but this review reflects my honest opinion.
I enjoyed this book so much. It's been a series of heavy books and this one was lovely and frothy. I liked the world-building and the f/f romance was sweet and largely free of unnecessary conflict.
One of the things I loved most was that there are two worlds here that are distinctly different from the one i was in while reading it. First- this is period fiction, Edwardian to be exact, and then there is the fantasy element. Both of which are well-researched and make for a wonderfully romantic and cozy setting.
About the only exception to thai is the fixation on the bathroom aspect. While I appreciate attention to detail and would have wanted to know how that worked out, the level of focus felt jarring, a little too human and modern for the rest of the book. But that's a small quibble and not enough to knock off am entire star.
Overall, if like me you're in the mood for something light and sweet, with a cute Sapphic element, cozy not dark, then this is the perfect choice for you.
I enjoyed this book so much. It's been a series of heavy books and this one was lovely and frothy. I liked the world-building and the f/f romance was sweet and largely free of unnecessary conflict.
One of the things I loved most was that there are two worlds here that are distinctly different from the one i was in while reading it. First- this is period fiction, Edwardian to be exact, and then there is the fantasy element. Both of which are well-researched and make for a wonderfully romantic and cozy setting.
About the only exception to thai is the fixation on the bathroom aspect. While I appreciate attention to detail and would have wanted to know how that worked out, the level of focus felt jarring, a little too human and modern for the rest of the book. But that's a small quibble and not enough to knock off am entire star.
Overall, if like me you're in the mood for something light and sweet, with a cute Sapphic element, cozy not dark, then this is the perfect choice for you.
April 29, 2025
This was such a beautifully sweet romance read, with a unique twist of the main character being a water nymph. What first drew me to this novella, was the chronic pain representation! As someone with fibromyalgia, it's not often I read novels (actually this may be the first!) where the main character suffers the same ailment (the word fibro is not mentioned but it was how I read it), and this was beautifully done. I really related to Lilje, and loved that I had that connection, in what is normally a very lonely illness.
I also love a good sapphic read, with a slow burn romance, and that ending - wow, it just left me so speechless.. such a sweet tragic end, that tugged at my heartstrings. The development between the characters, the swift-flowing plot, the simple but precise world building and the beautiful descriptions just made this novel such a pleasure to read.
I did rate it 4.5 stars rounded up, because there was a middle section of the story, where Lilje was learning about human bowel movements, and it took me out of the magical sweet writing style for a moment (Lilje is learning how to live as a human and our biology is different to nymphs) which was a shame, but other than that, it was an absolutely magical read that I devoured!
I'm so grateful to read a chronic pain rep book! Thank you for the arc!
I also love a good sapphic read, with a slow burn romance, and that ending - wow, it just left me so speechless.. such a sweet tragic end, that tugged at my heartstrings. The development between the characters, the swift-flowing plot, the simple but precise world building and the beautiful descriptions just made this novel such a pleasure to read.
I did rate it 4.5 stars rounded up, because there was a middle section of the story, where Lilje was learning about human bowel movements, and it took me out of the magical sweet writing style for a moment (Lilje is learning how to live as a human and our biology is different to nymphs) which was a shame, but other than that, it was an absolutely magical read that I devoured!
I'm so grateful to read a chronic pain rep book! Thank you for the arc!
May 7, 2025
This was a very sweet sapphic love story, with both historical and fantasy elements. It was beautifully written, and I loved how the author incorporated nature into the story, with the water nymph main characters being at one with air and water and being able to communicate with animals.
The story follows water nymph Lilje, who is suffering from chronic pain and fatigue, as she retreats to an Edwardian health spa where she lives as a human in the hope that it will help to heal her chronic illness. It depicts beautifully both the sadness and hope of chronic illness as Lilje tries to live with the pain whilst still enjoying the other sensations of life. Lilje learns about the human cultures of Edwardian times, trying her best to fit in and eventually finding herself falling in love and having to make tough decisions about her future. I found it started off quite slow, but by the end, I couldn't put it down as I wanted to see how Lilje's story ended.
Themes
💕Slow Burn 👩❤️💋👩Sapphic Romance
🏫Historical Setting ❤️🩹Chronic Pain Rep
with thanks to the author for access to this eARC
The story follows water nymph Lilje, who is suffering from chronic pain and fatigue, as she retreats to an Edwardian health spa where she lives as a human in the hope that it will help to heal her chronic illness. It depicts beautifully both the sadness and hope of chronic illness as Lilje tries to live with the pain whilst still enjoying the other sensations of life. Lilje learns about the human cultures of Edwardian times, trying her best to fit in and eventually finding herself falling in love and having to make tough decisions about her future. I found it started off quite slow, but by the end, I couldn't put it down as I wanted to see how Lilje's story ended.
Themes
💕Slow Burn 👩❤️💋👩Sapphic Romance
🏫Historical Setting ❤️🩹Chronic Pain Rep
with thanks to the author for access to this eARC
May 17, 2025
ARC Review.
Reflections of Lilje Damselfly is simply a beautiful work of art. The writing feels like a fairy tale, so magical and full of wonderful descriptions that make you want to be there in the pond. The romance is soft and gentle, something I really liked, I loved seeing Lilje falling in love for the first time, both characters getting closer and the build up was a delight.
The representation of a character with a chronic illness is just on point and something I really appreciated as someone with a chronic illness and chronic pain. At some point I did think I wanted some more mentions of the illness and how it affected Lilje, and just as I thought that, the book delivered it. Seeing Lilje having to miss things she wants to do due to her illness is something that I felt really represented with.
The only thing I'd ask for is that this book was longer, I'd have loved to read more about their life together, especially when they just started being together and at the end, but also a bit of their daily life.
Reflections of Lilje Damselfly is simply a beautiful work of art. The writing feels like a fairy tale, so magical and full of wonderful descriptions that make you want to be there in the pond. The romance is soft and gentle, something I really liked, I loved seeing Lilje falling in love for the first time, both characters getting closer and the build up was a delight.
The representation of a character with a chronic illness is just on point and something I really appreciated as someone with a chronic illness and chronic pain. At some point I did think I wanted some more mentions of the illness and how it affected Lilje, and just as I thought that, the book delivered it. Seeing Lilje having to miss things she wants to do due to her illness is something that I felt really represented with.
The only thing I'd ask for is that this book was longer, I'd have loved to read more about their life together, especially when they just started being together and at the end, but also a bit of their daily life.
May 20, 2025
I received a digital ARC, but this is my honest review.
A beautiful, heartfelt, genuine, & wholesome book with gorgeous descriptions and well-crafted prose.
I particularly love (& personally relate to) the representation of a character living with disability & chronic illness. I admit that sometimes, the representation felt so real and relatable that it took me longer to advance in the book compared to some simple, "popcorn" type of stories. And I must also confess that this isn't the type of book I usually read. That got me to ponder my rating for a while. But the fact that, despite not really being the type of book I choose to read, this book still impressed me so much already proves it deserves 5 stars.
So if you like slow-burn sapphic romance, grounded historical fantasy, and disability/chronic-illness representation, do NOT hesitate to get & read this book!
I would also like to thank the author for the ARC & her gorgeous cat, Barry, who I'm sure must have contributed to the book's magnificence in some way!
A beautiful, heartfelt, genuine, & wholesome book with gorgeous descriptions and well-crafted prose.
I particularly love (& personally relate to) the representation of a character living with disability & chronic illness. I admit that sometimes, the representation felt so real and relatable that it took me longer to advance in the book compared to some simple, "popcorn" type of stories. And I must also confess that this isn't the type of book I usually read. That got me to ponder my rating for a while. But the fact that, despite not really being the type of book I choose to read, this book still impressed me so much already proves it deserves 5 stars.
So if you like slow-burn sapphic romance, grounded historical fantasy, and disability/chronic-illness representation, do NOT hesitate to get & read this book!
I would also like to thank the author for the ARC & her gorgeous cat, Barry, who I'm sure must have contributed to the book's magnificence in some way!
July 15, 2025
This review first appeared on https://nsfordwriter.com on 14th July 2025.
This is a strikingly unusual read because it's narrated by a water nymph who suffers from chronic pain and fatigue. I haven't encountered either nymphs or chronic illness in fiction before, so I'd recommend the book based on how different it is. We dive into the world of water nymphs and explore how it feels to adjust to living as a human, as the main character Lilje does. Her father arranges for her to stay at a spa, in the hope that this will heal her. While at the spa, a family mystery is revealed and at the same time as Lilje processing this and trying to recover her health, she has a romantic spark with her mother's servant girl, who has no idea that Lilje is a water nymph. Although the book is a light fantasy novel and a slow-burn sapphic romance with a little historical fiction for context, it seems to me that the chronic illness is foremost, which gives realism to the story. In summary, this unique book is well worth a read.
This is a strikingly unusual read because it's narrated by a water nymph who suffers from chronic pain and fatigue. I haven't encountered either nymphs or chronic illness in fiction before, so I'd recommend the book based on how different it is. We dive into the world of water nymphs and explore how it feels to adjust to living as a human, as the main character Lilje does. Her father arranges for her to stay at a spa, in the hope that this will heal her. While at the spa, a family mystery is revealed and at the same time as Lilje processing this and trying to recover her health, she has a romantic spark with her mother's servant girl, who has no idea that Lilje is a water nymph. Although the book is a light fantasy novel and a slow-burn sapphic romance with a little historical fiction for context, it seems to me that the chronic illness is foremost, which gives realism to the story. In summary, this unique book is well worth a read.
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