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Fae of Woodlands & Wild #1
Kingdom of Faewood
The all-knowing semelees swirled around me in the Veiled Between, crooning and writhing. “You’ve come to us, Daughter of Darkness, Princess of Shadows. Tell us what you seek.”
On the Silten continent, I’m the only fae who can walk the Veiled Between. My rare power is immense and dangerous, so the authorities have entrusted me to my guardian who controls my potent magic with an enchanted device.
To avoid the device’s searing punishment, I submit to a dutiful life. Until one terrifying night everything changes.
I’m taken captive by the ruthless Dark Raider—an outlaw wanted in all four kingdoms, who hides behind a mask, and has a body created for sin.
But the Raider whispers a promise I can’t resist—use my magic to find who he seeks, and he’ll obliterate my chains.
Finally, the freedom I’ve craved is within my reach.
Yet finding who he hunts plunges me into a game of deceit among the kingdoms. After uncovering truths I was never meant to know, I’m caught in a web of betrayal, and if I can’t find a way to break free, I’ll have simply traded one imprisonment for another.
Kingdom of Faewood is book one in Fae of Woodlands & Wild, a fae fantasy romance trilogy that takes place in Krista Street’s Supernatural World. This series contains spicy romance, epic worldbuilding, a female fae who’s determined to wield her own fate, a ruthless Dark Raider who will stop at nothing to protect those he loves, and a mysterious ploy circulating throughout the kingdoms.
On the Silten continent, I’m the only fae who can walk the Veiled Between. My rare power is immense and dangerous, so the authorities have entrusted me to my guardian who controls my potent magic with an enchanted device.
To avoid the device’s searing punishment, I submit to a dutiful life. Until one terrifying night everything changes.
I’m taken captive by the ruthless Dark Raider—an outlaw wanted in all four kingdoms, who hides behind a mask, and has a body created for sin.
But the Raider whispers a promise I can’t resist—use my magic to find who he seeks, and he’ll obliterate my chains.
Finally, the freedom I’ve craved is within my reach.
Yet finding who he hunts plunges me into a game of deceit among the kingdoms. After uncovering truths I was never meant to know, I’m caught in a web of betrayal, and if I can’t find a way to break free, I’ll have simply traded one imprisonment for another.
Kingdom of Faewood is book one in Fae of Woodlands & Wild, a fae fantasy romance trilogy that takes place in Krista Street’s Supernatural World. This series contains spicy romance, epic worldbuilding, a female fae who’s determined to wield her own fate, a ruthless Dark Raider who will stop at nothing to protect those he loves, and a mysterious ploy circulating throughout the kingdoms.
386 pages, Paperback
First published January 3, 2025
4208 people are currently reading
28932 people want to read
About the author
Krista Street
49 books1,907 followersKrista Street loves writing about coming of age characters who fight to find their place in this world while also finding their one true mate.
Krista Street is a Minnesota native but has lived throughout the U.S. and in another country or two. She loves to travel, read, and spend time in the great outdoors. When not writing, Krista is either chasing her children, spending time with her husband and friends, sipping a cup of tea, or enjoying the hidden gems of beauty that Minnesota has to offer.
To connect with Krista more, you can join her newsletter at www.kristastreet.com/contact
You can also find her on:
Facebook (@authorkristastreet)
Instagram (@authorkristastreet)
Bookbub
Krista Street is a Minnesota native but has lived throughout the U.S. and in another country or two. She loves to travel, read, and spend time in the great outdoors. When not writing, Krista is either chasing her children, spending time with her husband and friends, sipping a cup of tea, or enjoying the hidden gems of beauty that Minnesota has to offer.
To connect with Krista more, you can join her newsletter at www.kristastreet.com/contact
You can also find her on:
Facebook (@authorkristastreet)
Instagram (@authorkristastreet)
Bookbub
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 417 reviews
January 2, 2025
This is the first book in the fae of Woodlands and Wild series, a fae fantasy romance trilogy. This takes place in the author’s Supernatural World but it it not necessary to read any prior book in the world. There are several dark elements to this story so please read the trigger warnings.
Tropes and themes include:
✨ Captor/captive
✨ One tent and one stag
✨ Who did this to you?
✨ Touch her and die
✨ She’s kidnapped . . . multiple times
✨ Slowburn (glacial)
✨ Betrayals
✨ Morally gray MMC
✨ He bathes her
Rating: 5/5 Stars 1/5 Flames
Spice: A few intimate moments but no spice. As with Krista’s prior series these are very slow burn so there is likely to be some spice in books 2 and/or 3.
The Lovely: I loved so much about this book but probably the FMC the most. While she’s a bit naive (with good reason), she’s determined and knows what she wants. My heart broke right along with her multiple times and I still have so much rage at a couple characters who wronged her. Her story explores the concept of trust and how much it hurts when you are betrayed by someone you trust. 😥
Also Lovely: I also loved the unique plot of this book. While at its core the story is about a woman kidnapped for her magic, it’s not that straight forward due to the parties involved and the limitations on her power. Even the ending was a bit of a shock to me - I had guess part of it, but not the very end.
Recommendation: I received an advance review copy and my thoughts are my own. Knowing this was set in the same world as another of my favorite series (Fae of Snow and Ice), I went into this with high hopes. And this book blew those right out of the water. The ending isn’t exactly a cliffhanger but it broke me a bit all the same. I’m glad to hear the author will be rapid releasing the remaining books - book 2 in February and book 3 in March - as I’m not sure I can wait long. If you like a more traditional fae romantasy but with a unique plot and glacial slowburn, I think you would like this book.
Tropes and themes include:
✨ Captor/captive
✨ One tent and one stag
✨ Who did this to you?
✨ Touch her and die
✨ She’s kidnapped . . . multiple times
✨ Slowburn (glacial)
✨ Betrayals
✨ Morally gray MMC
✨ He bathes her
Rating: 5/5 Stars 1/5 Flames
Spice: A few intimate moments but no spice. As with Krista’s prior series these are very slow burn so there is likely to be some spice in books 2 and/or 3.
The Lovely: I loved so much about this book but probably the FMC the most. While she’s a bit naive (with good reason), she’s determined and knows what she wants. My heart broke right along with her multiple times and I still have so much rage at a couple characters who wronged her. Her story explores the concept of trust and how much it hurts when you are betrayed by someone you trust. 😥
Also Lovely: I also loved the unique plot of this book. While at its core the story is about a woman kidnapped for her magic, it’s not that straight forward due to the parties involved and the limitations on her power. Even the ending was a bit of a shock to me - I had guess part of it, but not the very end.
Recommendation: I received an advance review copy and my thoughts are my own. Knowing this was set in the same world as another of my favorite series (Fae of Snow and Ice), I went into this with high hopes. And this book blew those right out of the water. The ending isn’t exactly a cliffhanger but it broke me a bit all the same. I’m glad to hear the author will be rapid releasing the remaining books - book 2 in February and book 3 in March - as I’m not sure I can wait long. If you like a more traditional fae romantasy but with a unique plot and glacial slowburn, I think you would like this book.
January 11, 2025
3⭐️ this is a personal pet peeve, but I absolutely hate when characters are victims of decades long brainwashing and they are able to get over it easily, in less than a chapter and completely on their own no problem.
The second reason I didn’t like this book, the author described the color of the MMC’s eyes as…cerulean, azure, cobalt and navy. Those are 4 completely different shades of blue 😑 Like I get it, you want to use a different word of blue to be descriptive but… if you look up these colors based on the pigments they are named after. Azure is green in tone, cerulean is light blue, navy is dark blue and cobalt is a cool toned blue. 4 different colors. This just took me out.
The second reason I didn’t like this book, the author described the color of the MMC’s eyes as…cerulean, azure, cobalt and navy. Those are 4 completely different shades of blue 😑 Like I get it, you want to use a different word of blue to be descriptive but… if you look up these colors based on the pigments they are named after. Azure is green in tone, cerulean is light blue, navy is dark blue and cobalt is a cool toned blue. 4 different colors. This just took me out.
Read
January 6, 2025Ope, my first DNF of 2025 at 25%. Just really not feeling the Stockholm syndrome with the guardian and self sabotaging.
April 18, 2025
Wouldn't you think that Amazon owning Goodreads would mean that Kindle could manage not to recommend authors to whom I have already given poor ratings?
I wish I'd noticed in advance that Krista Street was an author I had already come across, because I could almost copy and paste my review of Court of Winter here.
It was obvious quite early on that the writing was not proficient but I persevered because the hero is our very own magical Robin Hood and that seized my interest. I wish it hadn't.
We're only told about the Robin Hood action.
The writing is an odd kind of PG-13 which alludes to dark things but tends to fade to black. If the author did want to dabble more in horror, it's a shame she didn't lean more into the sensory deprivation magic which is much more horrifying than the threat of a little knife-play...
The syntax is atrocious. Absolutely atrocious. I wrote "clunky" in my notes so many times that I can't even be bothered to count them. For example:
- "everything about him preceded his reputation" (What?)
- "I usually never felt that kind of vulnerability" (Never is an absolute.)
- "...the small town waiting down the sandy road. The quaint village was the only city for miles" (Village, town, and city are by no means the same thing.)
The chemistry is non-existent. On a related note, "my virgin body was practically salivating" is a phrase I hope never to hear again.
The heroine is naive like a child, but the characters inexplicably think she's very astute.
She is praised for being "a female who likes to eat". I can barely begin to say how much this pissed me off. Oh my fucking god - WOMEN LIKING TO EAT IS THE DEFAULT, IT'S JUST THAT WE ARE SO SOCIALISED TO BELIEVE THAT WE HAVE TO BE THIN THAT WE DENY OURSELVES! It's like you're trying to piss me off!
I wish I'd noticed in advance that Krista Street was an author I had already come across, because I could almost copy and paste my review of Court of Winter here.
It was obvious quite early on that the writing was not proficient but I persevered because the hero is our very own magical Robin Hood and that seized my interest. I wish it hadn't.
We're only told about the Robin Hood action.
The writing is an odd kind of PG-13 which alludes to dark things but tends to fade to black. If the author did want to dabble more in horror, it's a shame she didn't lean more into the sensory deprivation magic which is much more horrifying than the threat of a little knife-play...
The syntax is atrocious. Absolutely atrocious. I wrote "clunky" in my notes so many times that I can't even be bothered to count them. For example:
- "everything about him preceded his reputation" (What?)
- "I usually never felt that kind of vulnerability" (Never is an absolute.)
- "...the small town waiting down the sandy road. The quaint village was the only city for miles" (Village, town, and city are by no means the same thing.)
The chemistry is non-existent. On a related note, "my virgin body was practically salivating" is a phrase I hope never to hear again.
The heroine is naive like a child, but the characters inexplicably think she's very astute.
She is praised for being "a female who likes to eat". I can barely begin to say how much this pissed me off. Oh my fucking god - WOMEN LIKING TO EAT IS THE DEFAULT, IT'S JUST THAT WE ARE SO SOCIALISED TO BELIEVE THAT WE HAVE TO BE THIN THAT WE DENY OURSELVES! It's like you're trying to piss me off!
February 7, 2025
4.5 ⭐
Slow burn
Enemies to lovers
Secret identity
Betrayal
Powerful cinnamon roll MMC
soft FMC
Fatedmates ( the author said this but it hasn't been revealed in this book yet )
This put me in a chock hold and didn't release me until I finished. I was invested in the plot and couldn't put it down . I truly think I'm gonna fail in my exams at this point but whatever this was so good their slow burn and their tension. Jax was a cinnamon roll he was so gentle and sweet with the FMC. FMC was soft and so kind she hurt too much because of others greed .
The magic system wasn't hard to understand and was intriguing so I wasn't confused or annoyed.
Obviously go read this book !
Slow burn
Enemies to lovers
Secret identity
Betrayal
Powerful cinnamon roll MMC
soft FMC
Fatedmates ( the author said this but it hasn't been revealed in this book yet )
This put me in a chock hold and didn't release me until I finished. I was invested in the plot and couldn't put it down . I truly think I'm gonna fail in my exams at this point but whatever this was so good their slow burn and their tension. Jax was a cinnamon roll he was so gentle and sweet with the FMC. FMC was soft and so kind she hurt too much because of others greed .
The magic system wasn't hard to understand and was intriguing so I wasn't confused or annoyed.
Obviously go read this book !
January 31, 2025
2.5 stars and DNF at 25% because I need to create some sort of social media handle for myself -- "Reading mediocre romantasy books so you don't have to."
THE GOOD
The cover is pretty.
THE MEH
1) This reads like discount, watered down From Blood and Ash with the naive main character, mysterious and fearsome outlaw, and unconvincing reasons for the main character to be sheltered and enslaved.
2) I know this book is in the same world as the author's other series, but don't say this could be read as a standalone if I actually need to read that other series to understand how we're zooming around on enchanted carpets and what the different classes/species of fae are.
THE GOOD
The cover is pretty.
THE MEH
1) This reads like discount, watered down From Blood and Ash with the naive main character, mysterious and fearsome outlaw, and unconvincing reasons for the main character to be sheltered and enslaved.
2) I know this book is in the same world as the author's other series, but don't say this could be read as a standalone if I actually need to read that other series to understand how we're zooming around on enchanted carpets and what the different classes/species of fae are.
December 25, 2025
When Krista Street books hit, they hit so good! I enjoyed this one tremendously!
The heroine starts off as a very naive and sweet person. She's been promised something she's always wanted in a few years time and is quite content to do as she's told and wait it out. Enter the hero who reveals a bit too much and consequently throws a big wrench into everything she was promised. Her world gets turned upside down, and even though she's content to see how things pan out, she's also smart enough to try and get away when she feels cornered.
The ending was very understandable and expected. Due to her circumstances, her reasonable deductions were rational and based on past experiences that did not go well. So you couldn't expect her to sit still and wait it out.
I very much like where this is going! I'm very curious about the hero. This is one of the few instances where I would love to read about what's going on in his head. Onto the next one!
The heroine starts off as a very naive and sweet person. She's been promised something she's always wanted in a few years time and is quite content to do as she's told and wait it out. Enter the hero who reveals a bit too much and consequently throws a big wrench into everything she was promised. Her world gets turned upside down, and even though she's content to see how things pan out, she's also smart enough to try and get away when she feels cornered.
The ending was very understandable and expected. Due to her circumstances, her reasonable deductions were rational and based on past experiences that did not go well. So you couldn't expect her to sit still and wait it out.
I very much like where this is going! I'm very curious about the hero. This is one of the few instances where I would love to read about what's going on in his head. Onto the next one!
January 17, 2025
I was drawn in by the high ratings but this was so boring. None of the characters were very likeable. The fmc acted like a child and I didn’t feel like there was enough good plot to get to know any of the other characters or draw me in for the next book.
March 27, 2025
It’s like bad but also good? I was hooked and needed to know what happened and it has a lot of potential but also rushed through plots. Maybe a plot building book? Very confused on how I feel but I will of course be reading the next two books as the are released
May 25, 2025
FMC - Elowen: 3 🌟
MMC - Jax 3 🌟
Spice - 🫑
LIKES: I have so many questions! This book left me curious to know more about the various magic abilities in this world and unknown family mysteries of the characters. I liked that Jax and his crew gave Robin Hood vibes, and I always enjoy a very protective MMC
DISLIKES: The writing/dialogue was tacky at times, and the plot was a little repetitive when Elowen was kidnapped for the third time :p
FINAL THOUGHTS: So far, it's not a fantasy series I feel like I want to rave about. But it's only the first book in the series, and I am intrigued enough to keep going with the series. There's still hope yet for it to sway me!
MMC - Jax 3 🌟
Spice - 🫑
LIKES: I have so many questions! This book left me curious to know more about the various magic abilities in this world and unknown family mysteries of the characters. I liked that Jax and his crew gave Robin Hood vibes, and I always enjoy a very protective MMC
DISLIKES: The writing/dialogue was tacky at times, and the plot was a little repetitive when Elowen was kidnapped for the third time :p
FINAL THOUGHTS: So far, it's not a fantasy series I feel like I want to rave about. But it's only the first book in the series, and I am intrigued enough to keep going with the series. There's still hope yet for it to sway me!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 4, 2025
Krista Street has become an auto-buy author for me, and this one did not disappoint!! The world building and character development were so good, and she has a style of writing that makes you feel like you’re there.
I loved the concept of this story, and my heart was truly with FMC Elowen the whole time. Although she is sheltered and naive, she has a quiet strength about her. I felt everything she felt, and so often just wanted to hug her, or better still, have Jax do it
This story moves along at a good pace, and I never once felt like it wasn’t moving forward. Thankfully we don’t have to wait too long for the second installment, which I have already preordered!
I loved the concept of this story, and my heart was truly with FMC Elowen the whole time. Although she is sheltered and naive, she has a quiet strength about her. I felt everything she felt, and so often just wanted to hug her, or better still, have Jax do it
This story moves along at a good pace, and I never once felt like it wasn’t moving forward. Thankfully we don’t have to wait too long for the second installment, which I have already preordered!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 17, 2025
DNF at 32%. This just wasn't for me. I can see what the author was trying to do with this but it was too rushed, no plot and frankly didn't make sense to me. I feel like the author tried to combine too many fantasy elements that didn't work together. The MFC was incredibly annoying and there was no progression in the story / I didn't feel like I was learning anything or gaining an understanding of the world or characters.
May 19, 2025
I fear a random KU Facebook ad got me
August 18, 2025
☆3.89☆
Genre: Fantasy with Romance
✅️ Different World
✅️ Kingdoms and Royalty
✅️ Robin Hood MMC - "Dark Raider"
✅️ Good vs Evil
✅️ Hidden Truths
✅️ Magical Artifact
✅️ Cliffhanger
Trigger Warning : slavery, traces of Stockholm syndrome, sexual harassment, obvious manipulation and control as well as violence
REVIEW
This series a journey for the truth.
FMC/ Elowen has been a slave to her Guardian since she was five years old. A child, her thinking had been easy to mold and she lives with a willful delusion that her Guardian cares and loves her. But she still looks forward to her freedom which is due when she turns 30 summers. But a kidnapping and intervention later, things start to become clearer...
I enjoyed the book and the series. It isn't a darkly depressing tale, but more inclined towards survival and eventually living rather than a simple continued existence.
There are curvy roads to the narrative, but still it was eventful and insightful riding on them. The pace, itself, isn't slow—there is always something happening. Book 2 is much more rewarding than book 1, but the latter is very much needed to set the base and an undercurrent for the developing bond of FMC and MMC/Dark Raider/Jax.
The world setup by the author isn't half-assed either. The buildup of it is there for a reader's understanding without an onslaught of information—however, some might think more info was required.
As to the romance itself, it is heating up. I like the progression—it isn't rushed but it isn't taking ages either. Jax is patient and caring with Elowen, who has never really known either of those. He gives her space for her freedom.
But that's the cliffhanger isn't it?
Genre: Fantasy with Romance
✅️ Different World
✅️ Kingdoms and Royalty
✅️ Robin Hood MMC - "Dark Raider"
✅️ Good vs Evil
✅️ Hidden Truths
✅️ Magical Artifact
✅️ Cliffhanger
Trigger Warning : slavery, traces of Stockholm syndrome, sexual harassment, obvious manipulation and control as well as violence
REVIEW
This series a journey for the truth.
FMC/ Elowen has been a slave to her Guardian since she was five years old. A child, her thinking had been easy to mold and she lives with a willful delusion that her Guardian cares and loves her. But she still looks forward to her freedom which is due when she turns 30 summers. But a kidnapping and intervention later, things start to become clearer...
I enjoyed the book and the series. It isn't a darkly depressing tale, but more inclined towards survival and eventually living rather than a simple continued existence.
Darkness. Power. Might.
I was the princess of shadows.
The walker between the veils.
There are curvy roads to the narrative, but still it was eventful and insightful riding on them. The pace, itself, isn't slow—there is always something happening. Book 2 is much more rewarding than book 1, but the latter is very much needed to set the base and an undercurrent for the developing bond of FMC and MMC/Dark Raider/Jax.
The world setup by the author isn't half-assed either. The buildup of it is there for a reader's understanding without an onslaught of information—however, some might think more info was required.
As to the romance itself, it is heating up. I like the progression—it isn't rushed but it isn't taking ages either. Jax is patient and caring with Elowen, who has never really known either of those. He gives her space for her freedom.
But that's the cliffhanger isn't it?
June 2, 2025
I enjoyed this! Easy read and got me out of my reading slump
June 17, 2025
I don’t even know why I read it till the end. The writing was so boring and at some point even draining. How is it even possible to write that many words while NOTHING is happening?!? I was seriously contemplating what was going on and then I realized NOTHING WAS GOING ON. Cause the scene I was reading was just full of descriptions of sand and trees and nothing. But I still read it till the end. This- I have to say very fucking foreseeable- end. But it wasn’t just the writing that I find extremely Life sucking it was also the characters themselves. Like for gods sake WHATS UP WITH HER?!? She is SUCH a damsel in distress ALWAYS. And isn’t she- correct me if I’m wrong- one of the most powerful feas in that universe?!? Jaxs storyline was something I could smell a thousand miles away. Like YEAH NO SHIT HES INFLUENTIAL?!? At some point I thought that it reminded me a tiny bit of cruel king mostly the relationship between the guardian and her and I do still believe that was what the author was trying to articulate but she just failed.
I will however also read the second book. Why you might ask- this is just so bad that it’s mind numbing and sometimes TAHTS exactly what I need.
Ps. I HATE words like female or male and also female flesh is just such a disgusting word. Proof me wrong but it JUST sounds degrading
I will however also read the second book. Why you might ask- this is just so bad that it’s mind numbing and sometimes TAHTS exactly what I need.
Ps. I HATE words like female or male and also female flesh is just such a disgusting word. Proof me wrong but it JUST sounds degrading
March 2, 2025
Seriously confused over the glowing reviews. I just got to chapter 10 and our main character - who I literally can’t even remember her name now and I just stopped reading to write this - is a bit TSTL. She’s clearly been abused by her “guardian” who basically forces her to perform her magic for the highest bidder to make him wealthy, and she thinks of him like a father. I saw a review on Amazon I think that I agree with - the Stockholm syndrome is so real here but not in a believable way. There are so many descriptions of him mentally manipulating her or her describing things about him that are absolutely not ok (just read a sentence saying something about his “sinister smile”). But instead of her mind opening even just a tiny bit from being kidnapped by Jax and maybe thinking “wait, is this ok what my guardian has been doing to me?” She is so obstinate and refuses to even consider her guardian isn’t a good guy. I just finished a fantastic read so it’s such a bummer to have started this one next. DNF
January 3, 2025
Krista Street has done it again!!! I could not put this book down… the world building, the magic, the characters, the budding romance, the absolutely HEARTBREAKING betrayal, and that cliffhanger ending all came together to create a stunning book that I absolutely could not put down and has me DESPERATE for book two! Elowen is a young Lorafin who has been enslaved her whole life, after an incident proved her to be dangerous… at least that’s what Elowen has always been told. In just a few short years though when she meets her thirtieth summer she will be freed from her debt and can prove to the supernatural community that she is not a danger to anyone that the powers that once controlled her are now under her control. All in all things are looking up for Elowens life… that is of course until the Dark Raider, a man fears throughout the lands for his ruthlessness and brutality, steals her from home and offers her her freedom early if she helps him find someone he lost. What unfolds from their is an amazing book filled with twists and turns, hilarious banter, amazing character growth, budding romance, swoon-worthy moments, and betrayals so deep you’ll feel as if that happened to you! So if you’re looking for a slow-burn romance featuring a FMC who is learning how to grab her own destiny and fight for the freedom she’s longed for, a MMC who will stop at nothing to get what he wants and protect those he cares about, a group of amazing side characters that just may be a found family, so many amazing shifter creatures, amazing world and magic building, and a cliffhanger ending that will have you crying in the wee hours of the morning (or at least it did me) then be sure to grab a copy of Kingdom of Faewood now!
February 3, 2026
4 ⭐️ | 🌶️ 0.5
“Darkness. Power. Might. I was the princess of shadows.”
Is this book a little cheesy? Yes.
Does it feel like a mash-up of Robin Hood, Aladdin, and Beauty and the Beast? Also yes.
Did I absolutely devour it anyway? 100%.
Despite some questionable moments—and an FMC who honestly drove me up the wall at times—I found this book incredibly immersive. The themes lean dark (definitely check trigger warnings), but they’re balanced with a sense of whimsy that really worked for me. The yearning? Immaculate. The slow burn? Delicious. And the MMC? Pretty much perfect.
I’ll admit, I guessed a few of the plot twists well before they happened. The story doesn’t try to be subtle or groundbreaking, and that’s okay. This isn’t a sophisticated, high-fantasy epic—it’s a good time. Cozy, dramatic, a little messy, and very readable.
All in all, I had fun, I stayed engaged, and I’m invested enough to continue the series. On to book two.
“Darkness. Power. Might. I was the princess of shadows.”
Is this book a little cheesy? Yes.
Does it feel like a mash-up of Robin Hood, Aladdin, and Beauty and the Beast? Also yes.
Did I absolutely devour it anyway? 100%.
Despite some questionable moments—and an FMC who honestly drove me up the wall at times—I found this book incredibly immersive. The themes lean dark (definitely check trigger warnings), but they’re balanced with a sense of whimsy that really worked for me. The yearning? Immaculate. The slow burn? Delicious. And the MMC? Pretty much perfect.
I’ll admit, I guessed a few of the plot twists well before they happened. The story doesn’t try to be subtle or groundbreaking, and that’s okay. This isn’t a sophisticated, high-fantasy epic—it’s a good time. Cozy, dramatic, a little messy, and very readable.
All in all, I had fun, I stayed engaged, and I’m invested enough to continue the series. On to book two.
April 22, 2025
This is a very sweet and interesting romantasy series. I think Krista Hall is slept on; she knows how to build a world. I really enjoyed this whole series and the Fae of Snow and Ice series. I would liken this to Spark of the Everflame or Daughter of No Worlds. Unique world, unique magic, unique FMC. Honestly, I loved it.
March 13, 2025
I absolutely love Krista’s world building. The story sucked me right in. I’m a sucker for any kind of Robin Hood trope. The seshual tension is absolutely delicious, as always. I am so glad she is clustering these releases close together because I DONT WANNA WAIT. Not to mention the audiobook narration is superb.
August 31, 2025
Perfect, no notes.
June 17, 2025
Fantastic! Looking forward to the next two books. Feel like there will be surprises to come!
May 6, 2025
REVIEW
Rating: 3.5/5
POV: 1st, Single (FMC)
Tropes: Enemies to Lovers; Kidnapping; Robin Hood Retelling; Forced Proximity; Fantasy; Fae;
Heat Level: 0/5
Kinks: N/A
Likes:
* I liked the MMC and his crew. Their abilities and secrets were intriguing. It's what kept me interested in the story.
Dislikes:
* By the end the FMC - a real idiot that one.
Conclusion:
Well I waited too long to write my review from when I finished reading so now I don't remember exactly what I wanted to put here. I do know I was overall pleasantly surprised at the story. Especially as the beginning has 13 pages of glossary and terms and a map. That was an overwhelming start.
I liked the FMC up until maybe the 50%ish mark. She just ended up being such an idiot. Making stupid choices, not seeing what was right in front of her face, etc. It got old quick. Luckily the MMC and his bandit crew kept me interested in the book. Well I will say the FMC's abilities kept me interested as well.
The story ends on a cliff hanger which not sure why I was surprised by that? Also there is literally not even a kiss in this book. We couldn't have at least gotten a kiss?? Geez.
According to other reviews there is more "heat" in the 2nd book. I am intrigued enough to continue reading the series.
3.5/5
Rating: 3.5/5
POV: 1st, Single (FMC)
Tropes: Enemies to Lovers; Kidnapping; Robin Hood Retelling; Forced Proximity; Fantasy; Fae;
Heat Level: 0/5
Kinks: N/A
Likes:
* I liked the MMC and his crew. Their abilities and secrets were intriguing. It's what kept me interested in the story.
Dislikes:
* By the end the FMC - a real idiot that one.
Conclusion:
Well I waited too long to write my review from when I finished reading so now I don't remember exactly what I wanted to put here. I do know I was overall pleasantly surprised at the story. Especially as the beginning has 13 pages of glossary and terms and a map. That was an overwhelming start.
I liked the FMC up until maybe the 50%ish mark. She just ended up being such an idiot. Making stupid choices, not seeing what was right in front of her face, etc. It got old quick. Luckily the MMC and his bandit crew kept me interested in the book. Well I will say the FMC's abilities kept me interested as well.
The story ends on a cliff hanger which not sure why I was surprised by that? Also there is literally not even a kiss in this book. We couldn't have at least gotten a kiss?? Geez.
According to other reviews there is more "heat" in the 2nd book. I am intrigued enough to continue reading the series.
3.5/5
May 21, 2025
5 ⭐️ 6 if I could - Okay, so I’ll be honest ... when I opened this book and saw the glossary I panicked a bit. My brain immediately said “oh no I'm totally getting lost.” But I didn’t; not even a little. This story pulled me in straight away and held me there with fae magic, forbidden power, and one seriously swoon-worthy outlaw.
Elowen is the kind of heroine I love. She's powerful but held back, fierce but vulnerable. She’s been kept in check by a magical device and a controlling guardian, until the masked and morally grey Jax sweeps in and flips her whole world upside down. Their chemistry? Off the charts. Add in forced proximity, political scheming, slow burn tension, and that “touch her and die” energy and I was HOOKED.
I loved every twist, every secret, every moment Elowen started reclaiming her power. And Jax? 10/10 would let him kidnap me any day. I’m absolutely devouring the rest of the series ASAP.
Elowen is the kind of heroine I love. She's powerful but held back, fierce but vulnerable. She’s been kept in check by a magical device and a controlling guardian, until the masked and morally grey Jax sweeps in and flips her whole world upside down. Their chemistry? Off the charts. Add in forced proximity, political scheming, slow burn tension, and that “touch her and die” energy and I was HOOKED.
I loved every twist, every secret, every moment Elowen started reclaiming her power. And Jax? 10/10 would let him kidnap me any day. I’m absolutely devouring the rest of the series ASAP.
February 21, 2025
Honestly this book is not great BUT the idea and plot is addictive so even though the writing is meh, I HAVE to read the next one to know the rest haha
I originally read the winter court series which is much better writing but this book is in the same universe. If you read the Winter court you may like this plot but be warned the writing is slightly worse
I originally read the winter court series which is much better writing but this book is in the same universe. If you read the Winter court you may like this plot but be warned the writing is slightly worse
September 2, 2025
Genre: Fantasy Romance
⭐️ 3/5
🌶 0/5 (I expect this will increase in book 2)
🧠 6/10 (Multiple references to the glossary)
Noteworthy: Book 1 of a completed trilogy. Underlying dark themes are discussed, including slavery and SA. Available on KU.
There is somewhat of a whimsical feel in this story due to the fae world and vocabulary. But I wouldn't call this a light read. The underlying theme of slavery is prevalent. My heart broke for the FMC from the first page to the last. The most heartbreaking part is the way she subconsciously excuses those who use and abuse her to try and create any connection to someone else. And to be honest, the MMC is not much better in the way he ultimately treats her. I would not trust a word that exits that man's mouth, and the fact she does based on gut feelings is giving heavy naivety. He's a green flag with red flag behavior, and that's almost worse for our girl. I'm not a fan of this potential relationship so far
My biggest reason for dinging this book in the rating is the writing. It had me cringing at times, and I don't easily cringe. I do like the story enough to continue, but I hope for a stronger 2nd book.
If you like anything by Ella Feilds, you may enjoy this.
⭐️ 3/5
🌶 0/5 (I expect this will increase in book 2)
🧠 6/10 (Multiple references to the glossary)
Noteworthy: Book 1 of a completed trilogy. Underlying dark themes are discussed, including slavery and SA. Available on KU.
There is somewhat of a whimsical feel in this story due to the fae world and vocabulary. But I wouldn't call this a light read. The underlying theme of slavery is prevalent. My heart broke for the FMC from the first page to the last. The most heartbreaking part is the way she subconsciously excuses those who use and abuse her to try and create any connection to someone else. And to be honest, the MMC is not much better in the way he ultimately treats her. I would not trust a word that exits that man's mouth, and the fact she does based on gut feelings is giving heavy naivety. He's a green flag with red flag behavior, and that's almost worse for our girl. I'm not a fan of this potential relationship so far
My biggest reason for dinging this book in the rating is the writing. It had me cringing at times, and I don't easily cringe. I do like the story enough to continue, but I hope for a stronger 2nd book.
If you like anything by Ella Feilds, you may enjoy this.
January 12, 2025
« 𝐴 ℎ𝑒𝑎𝑟𝑡𝑏𝑒𝑎𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑠𝑖𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝑝𝑎𝑠𝑠𝑒𝑑. 𝐽𝑎𝑥 𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑢𝑒𝑑 𝑡𝑜 𝑤𝑎𝑡𝑐ℎ 𝑚𝑒. 𝑆𝑖𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑡. 𝐼𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑛𝑡. 𝐴𝑛 𝑒𝑚𝑜𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑏𝑙𝑎𝑧𝑒𝑑 𝑖𝑛 ℎ𝑖𝑠 𝑒𝑦𝑒𝑠. 𝐼𝑡 𝑤𝑎𝑠 𝑟𝑎𝑤. 𝑊𝑖𝑙𝑑. 𝐴𝑛𝑑 𝑖𝑡 𝑠𝑤𝑖𝑟𝑙𝑒𝑑 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ 𝑠𝑜 𝑚𝑢𝑐ℎ 𝑟𝑒𝑔𝑟𝑒𝑡 𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑡 𝐼 𝑠𝑢𝑐𝑘𝑒𝑑 𝑖𝑛 𝑎 𝑏𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑡ℎ. 𝐵𝑢𝑡 𝑖𝑛 𝑎 𝑏𝑙𝑖𝑛𝑘, 𝑖𝑡 𝑤𝑎𝑠 𝑔𝑜𝑛𝑒. »
✨Romantasy
✨1st person single POV
✨Captor/captive
✨One horse (not a horse but a stag)
✨One bed but no worries they found a solution..the floor was available .. *crying*
✨No Spice but a spoon of sugar (looking at her lips , intake of breath , being aroused .. yes it’s a slooooow-burn)
✨Betrayal , a lot of betrayal
✨Hidden identity & secrets
✨Touch her and ☠️
✨Band of friends
✨Cliffhanger
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I LOVED it ! Couldn’t read it fast enough .. I swallowed it and am now crying in a big hangover state waiting for book 2 ..
it’s fast paced , an amazing slow-burn very frustrating but very promising too, and an engaging plot , simple enough to not make your head spin and intriguing enough to keep you engaged .. I guessed early in who Jax was, so Even if the twist didn’t twist me , I was excited for this reveal and i was not disappointed .. The cliffhanger tho ? I’m drooling for the sequel ..
✨Romantasy
✨1st person single POV
✨Captor/captive
✨One horse (not a horse but a stag)
✨One bed but no worries they found a solution..the floor was available .. *crying*
✨No Spice but a spoon of sugar (looking at her lips , intake of breath , being aroused .. yes it’s a slooooow-burn)
✨Betrayal , a lot of betrayal
✨Hidden identity & secrets
✨Touch her and ☠️
✨Band of friends
✨Cliffhanger
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I LOVED it ! Couldn’t read it fast enough .. I swallowed it and am now crying in a big hangover state waiting for book 2 ..
it’s fast paced , an amazing slow-burn very frustrating but very promising too, and an engaging plot , simple enough to not make your head spin and intriguing enough to keep you engaged .. I guessed early in who Jax was, so Even if the twist didn’t twist me , I was excited for this reveal and i was not disappointed .. The cliffhanger tho ? I’m drooling for the sequel ..
March 18, 2025
didn’t even mean to crank this book out in 3 days, but it just happened because I was hooked from the second chapter. Kingdom of Faewood was everything I love in a fantasy book. Unique magic system, in-depth world building, multiple kingdoms & masked raiders.
I am a sucker for extremely powerful main characters, and I can’t wait to see Elowen grow to her full potential. She deserves so much more from life than what she’s experienced up until now, and I was genuinely hurting for her. I love Jax as an MMC SO much, he is very much Robinhood vibes but a little darker. I love a morally grey man who’s not afraid to hurt the people who deserve it, but are ultimately super sweet underneath the mask.
I definitely saw the twist coming, but I am soo interested to see what it will mean for the next two books. This is definitely a slowww burn through & through, and I can’t wait to see how things develop between Jax and Elowen.
side note: love love love the expansion of this world, and I am dyingggg to see some characters from Court of Winter hopefully soon!!
I am a sucker for extremely powerful main characters, and I can’t wait to see Elowen grow to her full potential. She deserves so much more from life than what she’s experienced up until now, and I was genuinely hurting for her. I love Jax as an MMC SO much, he is very much Robinhood vibes but a little darker. I love a morally grey man who’s not afraid to hurt the people who deserve it, but are ultimately super sweet underneath the mask.
I definitely saw the twist coming, but I am soo interested to see what it will mean for the next two books. This is definitely a slowww burn through & through, and I can’t wait to see how things develop between Jax and Elowen.
side note: love love love the expansion of this world, and I am dyingggg to see some characters from Court of Winter hopefully soon!!
January 10, 2025
What I Loved:
🥀 Plot and Character Development
👑 Forced Proximity
🥀 Betrayal
👑 Secret Identities
🥀 Touch Her and ☠️… Hurt Her and Suffer
Oh my goodness, this is definitely my favourite book out of @authorkristastreet oeuvre. This book starts off in the perfect way to get to know the characters and fall in love with the base levels of their personality. Further, I was immediately drawn to the characters, and how their relationships would develop throughout the book. The second half of the books moved onto the climax, full of action, allowing me to see deeper levels of the characters personalities and fall deeper in love with them (flaws and all).
I loved how the world building was subtle yet detailed, where it wasn’t overwhelming or an information overload that sacrificed plot for description, or descriptions for plot. In summary, the plot and world building balance was impecable.
The ending was such a jolt to the system and had me screaming into a pillow and throwing the book across the room in disbelief. Like Oh… My… Goodness…
I will be thinking of these characters for months to come, waiting very (im)patiently for book 2. This book is for lovers of high fae, hidden identities, betrayal, slow burn, and absolutely gut-wrenching endings! To conclude, I CANNOT recommend this book enough 😍
🥀 Plot and Character Development
👑 Forced Proximity
🥀 Betrayal
👑 Secret Identities
🥀 Touch Her and ☠️… Hurt Her and Suffer
Oh my goodness, this is definitely my favourite book out of @authorkristastreet oeuvre. This book starts off in the perfect way to get to know the characters and fall in love with the base levels of their personality. Further, I was immediately drawn to the characters, and how their relationships would develop throughout the book. The second half of the books moved onto the climax, full of action, allowing me to see deeper levels of the characters personalities and fall deeper in love with them (flaws and all).
I loved how the world building was subtle yet detailed, where it wasn’t overwhelming or an information overload that sacrificed plot for description, or descriptions for plot. In summary, the plot and world building balance was impecable.
The ending was such a jolt to the system and had me screaming into a pillow and throwing the book across the room in disbelief. Like Oh… My… Goodness…
I will be thinking of these characters for months to come, waiting very (im)patiently for book 2. This book is for lovers of high fae, hidden identities, betrayal, slow burn, and absolutely gut-wrenching endings! To conclude, I CANNOT recommend this book enough 😍
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