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In Beds of Flowers
Dion Evestre has been the right hand to the Fae king for over eighty years. In that time, he has fulfilled every dark order presented to him, each one hardening his heart. But two women, from two different times, will test Dion as he never has been before.
Ciaragen wielder of shadows, daughter to a famed general…and orchestrator of the destruction of the Fae king and his reign. Will she succeed in her task, or will her darkness and desires be her downfall?
Althea fourth in line to the crown of the human continent, and a powerful healer. In a centuries-old tradition, she must choose a man to marry by her twenty-first birthday. She’s resolved to do her duty, despite the part of her that wishes for more.
But, as always happens in faerie tales, Althea learns to be careful what she wishes for. Because the fate that comes to her in the final hour is far worse than the last.
With no knowledge nor experience in how to fight this new enemy, Althea finds herself forced to do something even to trust them. Him. The one who betrayed her, and her family.
Or, maybe she’ll stab him–again.
Ciaragen wielder of shadows, daughter to a famed general…and orchestrator of the destruction of the Fae king and his reign. Will she succeed in her task, or will her darkness and desires be her downfall?
Althea fourth in line to the crown of the human continent, and a powerful healer. In a centuries-old tradition, she must choose a man to marry by her twenty-first birthday. She’s resolved to do her duty, despite the part of her that wishes for more.
But, as always happens in faerie tales, Althea learns to be careful what she wishes for. Because the fate that comes to her in the final hour is far worse than the last.
With no knowledge nor experience in how to fight this new enemy, Althea finds herself forced to do something even to trust them. Him. The one who betrayed her, and her family.
Or, maybe she’ll stab him–again.
546 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 19, 2025
107 people are currently reading
2000 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
June 1, 2025
I actually have no words for this.
The depth of this book is WILD.
I was absolutely glued. Although I felt a bit confused about names/places for the first hundred-ish pages, it all made sense when it mattered and I was able to follow everything with no issues after that. So if you’re feeling a little confused in the first 25%.. do NOT give up.
This is one of the best fantasy books I’ve read. Ever. OBSESSED.
Book two cannot get here fast enough. 😫
✨✨✨✨✨
The depth of this book is WILD.
I was absolutely glued. Although I felt a bit confused about names/places for the first hundred-ish pages, it all made sense when it mattered and I was able to follow everything with no issues after that. So if you’re feeling a little confused in the first 25%.. do NOT give up.
This is one of the best fantasy books I’ve read. Ever. OBSESSED.
Book two cannot get here fast enough. 😫
✨✨✨✨✨
March 28, 2025
"But that was the thing about animals in cages. If they learned that they could only grow to be as big as it allowed, and believed that they could only have an impact within its walls, then they eventually stopped trying to become all they were meant to be. Strong, willful…free."
Debut? WHERE?? 🔎
This book slapped & I can definitely see it being one of my top reads of 2025 🙂↕️
I feel like it’s another one where you just need to go in blind, so I’m keeping this short & spoiler free!!
Babyyyy, can Jess write a villain!! UGHHH I wanted to throw my kindle so many times. HE'S SO AWFUL 😭🖕Also the writing in general?? Love it. Stunning. The dual timeline was 👩🍳💋 The way she would end one POV on a cliffy and then jump to another was diabolical. I wanted to take my time reading it, but found myself speed reading to see what happened. I stayed up well past midnight to finish it & I don't do that v often now that I'm in my 30s 🤣
I could say so many things, but I really don’t wanna spoil anything, SO JUST. READ. IT. 😩
please lol
“My love, Bayani could have sliced you from temple to jaw, and still it would be a face I’d be happy to sit on.”
“We needn’t take such extreme measures for that. In fact, please take your seat, my Lady, because I’ve been dying to taste you all day.” 😮💨
What to expect (but non-spoilery):
🩵 Female rage
🩵 Morally grey MMCs
🩵 She's his bodyguard
🩵 Multi-POV
🩵 Dual timeline
🩵 Medium burn
Thank you to Jess Layne for the e-ARC. All opinions are my own.
Debut? WHERE?? 🔎
This book slapped & I can definitely see it being one of my top reads of 2025 🙂↕️
I feel like it’s another one where you just need to go in blind, so I’m keeping this short & spoiler free!!
Babyyyy, can Jess write a villain!! UGHHH I wanted to throw my kindle so many times. HE'S SO AWFUL 😭🖕Also the writing in general?? Love it. Stunning. The dual timeline was 👩🍳💋 The way she would end one POV on a cliffy and then jump to another was diabolical. I wanted to take my time reading it, but found myself speed reading to see what happened. I stayed up well past midnight to finish it & I don't do that v often now that I'm in my 30s 🤣
I could say so many things, but I really don’t wanna spoil anything, SO JUST. READ. IT. 😩
please lol
“My love, Bayani could have sliced you from temple to jaw, and still it would be a face I’d be happy to sit on.”
“We needn’t take such extreme measures for that. In fact, please take your seat, my Lady, because I’ve been dying to taste you all day.” 😮💨
What to expect (but non-spoilery):
🩵 Female rage
🩵 Morally grey MMCs
🩵 She's his bodyguard
🩵 Multi-POV
🩵 Dual timeline
🩵 Medium burn
Thank you to Jess Layne for the e-ARC. All opinions are my own.
April 4, 2025
Debut novel In Beds of Flowers by Jess Layne is EVERYTHING. I have literally dreamed about this book it was so good and stuck with me.
The world building? Beautiful.
The story line? Phenomenal.
The characters? Captivating.
I anticipate this book to be my favorite read of 2025! And I look forward to adding it to my re-read list for every year.
Synopsis
In IBOF, we get to follow the first person POVs of human Princess Althea Cardenia, Fae General Ciaragen Vey, and right-hand to the Fae King Dion Evestre. Their stories are separated by decades, but their lives are intertwined from the very beginning.
Thea believes her life is destined to be uninteresting - an arranged marriage on the horizon and she is only 4th in the line for the throne. A life of adventure and intrigue is seemingly off the table. That is until she is kidnapped by 3 Fae males and has no idea why. Thea will have to fight for survival against a species she knows nothing about and, eventually, put her trust in one if she wants to not only escape, but get her revenge.
Ciaragen is haunted by her past and seems to be thriving on her rage for the one male that she believes altered her life. When she is ordered to guard that male, and CAN'T punish him, Ciara will have to work through her emotions every day that she is with him. She will come face to face with the truth of her past and set her sights on taking down the Fae King.
Dion is hardened by the work he does for the Fae King and drinks himself into oblivion day in and day out. He yearns for a better life with purpose. When sent on a mission as spy, Dion gets to see what a life in a better kingdom is like - and he likes what he finds. As Dion falls more and more in love with this kingdom and its people, he will have to decide where his loyalties, and his heart, lie.
IBOF focuses heavily on the character’s feelings, experiences, and motives to drive the plot and I really enjoyed feeling like I really knew and understood our main characters. The way this author writes makes me really feel like I'm there with the characters and going through their emotions with them - rage, happiness, sadness, guilt, fear, love. No character feels muted or underdone.
Thea is bold and has a "take no shit" attitude that is so refreshing for a female character of royal lineage. Ciaragen is strong and incredibly comfortable in her own skin. I LOVE having female characters that have an edge to them and aren't just demure sidekicks. Dion is incredibly reflective and loving and his redemption is *chef's kiss*. He has maybe a bit too much self-pity for my liking, but it doesn't detract from the story.
I absolutely love a good dual timeline and this book delivers. One takes place in the present and one 21 years in the past. Through the back and forth, you learn more about the Fae lands and why Thea was kidnapped. The number of years of separation is extremely important and I knew SOMETHING happened at Thea's birth, but not exactly what until the plot twist at the end. It is a plot twist well worth waiting for!
The romance between two characters had me on my knees and begging for more. The slow burn is absolute perfection and their eventual coupling is everything I want from a "big moment" and more. Their love was built on mutual trust and adoration and didn't feel rushed at all. There is a twist at the very end that I just know is going to cause complications for them in book 2 and it breaks my heart to think about it.
There is a Fae male that Thea has to rely heavily on to help her escape. He doesn't get his own POV, but I love him all the same. There are a few lines that the author wrote of his reactions to things that Thea interprets one way (things like pain or disgust), but I'm interpreting another way (that he secretly likes her). He quickly became my favorite side character and I look forward to more of him.
I absolutely cannot wait for book 2. I need to know what happens in those missing 21 years to bring the characters together and how they will all begin to fight for their Kingdoms. I am especially hopeful that we get more growing chemistry between Thea and the Fae male. If he turns out how I imagine him in book 2, he very well could be my new book boyfriend.
In Beds of Flowers will be released on March 19. Thank you, Jess, for having me as your ARC reader!
The world building? Beautiful.
The story line? Phenomenal.
The characters? Captivating.
I anticipate this book to be my favorite read of 2025! And I look forward to adding it to my re-read list for every year.
Synopsis
In IBOF, we get to follow the first person POVs of human Princess Althea Cardenia, Fae General Ciaragen Vey, and right-hand to the Fae King Dion Evestre. Their stories are separated by decades, but their lives are intertwined from the very beginning.
Thea believes her life is destined to be uninteresting - an arranged marriage on the horizon and she is only 4th in the line for the throne. A life of adventure and intrigue is seemingly off the table. That is until she is kidnapped by 3 Fae males and has no idea why. Thea will have to fight for survival against a species she knows nothing about and, eventually, put her trust in one if she wants to not only escape, but get her revenge.
Ciaragen is haunted by her past and seems to be thriving on her rage for the one male that she believes altered her life. When she is ordered to guard that male, and CAN'T punish him, Ciara will have to work through her emotions every day that she is with him. She will come face to face with the truth of her past and set her sights on taking down the Fae King.
Dion is hardened by the work he does for the Fae King and drinks himself into oblivion day in and day out. He yearns for a better life with purpose. When sent on a mission as spy, Dion gets to see what a life in a better kingdom is like - and he likes what he finds. As Dion falls more and more in love with this kingdom and its people, he will have to decide where his loyalties, and his heart, lie.
IBOF focuses heavily on the character’s feelings, experiences, and motives to drive the plot and I really enjoyed feeling like I really knew and understood our main characters. The way this author writes makes me really feel like I'm there with the characters and going through their emotions with them - rage, happiness, sadness, guilt, fear, love. No character feels muted or underdone.
Thea is bold and has a "take no shit" attitude that is so refreshing for a female character of royal lineage. Ciaragen is strong and incredibly comfortable in her own skin. I LOVE having female characters that have an edge to them and aren't just demure sidekicks. Dion is incredibly reflective and loving and his redemption is *chef's kiss*. He has maybe a bit too much self-pity for my liking, but it doesn't detract from the story.
I absolutely love a good dual timeline and this book delivers. One takes place in the present and one 21 years in the past. Through the back and forth, you learn more about the Fae lands and why Thea was kidnapped. The number of years of separation is extremely important and I knew SOMETHING happened at Thea's birth, but not exactly what until the plot twist at the end. It is a plot twist well worth waiting for!
The romance between two characters had me on my knees and begging for more. The slow burn is absolute perfection and their eventual coupling is everything I want from a "big moment" and more. Their love was built on mutual trust and adoration and didn't feel rushed at all. There is a twist at the very end that I just know is going to cause complications for them in book 2 and it breaks my heart to think about it.
There is a Fae male that Thea has to rely heavily on to help her escape. He doesn't get his own POV, but I love him all the same. There are a few lines that the author wrote of his reactions to things that Thea interprets one way (things like pain or disgust), but I'm interpreting another way (that he secretly likes her). He quickly became my favorite side character and I look forward to more of him.
I absolutely cannot wait for book 2. I need to know what happens in those missing 21 years to bring the characters together and how they will all begin to fight for their Kingdoms. I am especially hopeful that we get more growing chemistry between Thea and the Fae male. If he turns out how I imagine him in book 2, he very well could be my new book boyfriend.
In Beds of Flowers will be released on March 19. Thank you, Jess, for having me as your ARC reader!
May 11, 2025
So incredibly proud of Jess for writing this amazing story! She paid attention to every single detail and kept me on my toes.
This was unlike any book that I've read before in all the best ways. The world building was absolutely incredible and the characters were so lovable! I can't wait for the next book!
This was unlike any book that I've read before in all the best ways. The world building was absolutely incredible and the characters were so lovable! I can't wait for the next book!
September 27, 2025
I’m probably gonna f*ck up by not typing my review right this minute, but there’s no chance I’m NOT gonna start the second book immediately. My mind is BLOWN! ✌️ Catch you on the flip side. This book is ♾️ 🌟! I could read it a million times over and would probably still find something that surprises me or leaves my jaw on the floor. For real… 😧 Those revelations left me shook.
August 23, 2025
This book was a breath of fresh air! So many books are often easy to predict, but this is not one! This book had me on the edge of my seat - and anxiously awaiting book two. Characters, relationships, plot, world building, magic/majick, twists- 10/10 no notes.
March 20, 2025
I have read this book twice now, and I cannot blame anyone but myself for my feelings being hurt. 😅
Althea is the remaining sibling to be betrothed. Days leading up to most important day of her life, an event knocks her off her axis. The day she is to announce who she has chosen as her husband, chaos ensues and she is forced to leave the only home she's ever known. Dion has been the kings lackey for centuries and cannot find it within himself to remember who he used to be. After being sent on a mission to spy on an opposing kingdom, Dion remembers his heart and vows to never go back. When assigned to guard her fathers murderer, Ciaragen's wish to avenge him is challenged by dechiphering truth from lie.
In Beds of Flowers is dually timelined in the POV of the main characters. In the present chapters with Althea, we witness her going through difficult circumstances that put her in "make it or break it" situations. For being as young as she is, her thought process and development throughout was refreshing. She is not your typical "chosen one" FMC. To understand fully what she is going through, we must also take the journey with Dion and Ciaragen in the past chapters. Dion was so beautifully written. Although he carried a heavy burden, he was receptive to change. Ciaragen is the protector of those she loves and their secrets. It was stunning to watch her walls come down, as Dion proved to be someone she can trust as she was trusted. Their love story allows for a personal discovery in both.
No one in this book felt more important than the other. Each character carried the weight necessary. Without them, their struggles, inner monologue, growth, and actions- the story cannot move forward. The masterpiece it was when both timelines met and quite literally blew up at the end, still has my jaw on the floor.
It's hard to believe that this is Jess Layne's debut novel. The writing within these pages are intentional, concise, vivid and emotionally packed. There are absolutely no notes. Please do yourself the favor and read this book.
‼️Please read trigger warnings. Your mental health matters‼️
Althea is the remaining sibling to be betrothed. Days leading up to most important day of her life, an event knocks her off her axis. The day she is to announce who she has chosen as her husband, chaos ensues and she is forced to leave the only home she's ever known. Dion has been the kings lackey for centuries and cannot find it within himself to remember who he used to be. After being sent on a mission to spy on an opposing kingdom, Dion remembers his heart and vows to never go back. When assigned to guard her fathers murderer, Ciaragen's wish to avenge him is challenged by dechiphering truth from lie.
In Beds of Flowers is dually timelined in the POV of the main characters. In the present chapters with Althea, we witness her going through difficult circumstances that put her in "make it or break it" situations. For being as young as she is, her thought process and development throughout was refreshing. She is not your typical "chosen one" FMC. To understand fully what she is going through, we must also take the journey with Dion and Ciaragen in the past chapters. Dion was so beautifully written. Although he carried a heavy burden, he was receptive to change. Ciaragen is the protector of those she loves and their secrets. It was stunning to watch her walls come down, as Dion proved to be someone she can trust as she was trusted. Their love story allows for a personal discovery in both.
No one in this book felt more important than the other. Each character carried the weight necessary. Without them, their struggles, inner monologue, growth, and actions- the story cannot move forward. The masterpiece it was when both timelines met and quite literally blew up at the end, still has my jaw on the floor.
It's hard to believe that this is Jess Layne's debut novel. The writing within these pages are intentional, concise, vivid and emotionally packed. There are absolutely no notes. Please do yourself the favor and read this book.
‼️Please read trigger warnings. Your mental health matters‼️
March 22, 2025
Jess’ incredibly compelling debut novel is a breath of fresh air for Romantasy lovers. This book and series has the potential to rise up in the Fantasy ranks and I’m eager to see where this story goes. Unlike other fantasies “In Beds of Flowers” has a unique approach with its dual timeline (the best way I can describe it is like watching The Witcher season 1). The story starts from Princess Althea’s perspective in the present, and as it unfolds, we are taken 21 years into the past, experiencing it through the points of view of General Ciaragen Vey & Lord Dion Evestre. Their stories weave together in a mesmerizing dance, eventually coming together in the present with breathtaking intensity. Oh yeah, did I mention it’s multiple POV’s? Fret not! I know most of us are a little jaded after reading CC, but know that Jess crafted these POV’s so seamlessly that going from one POV to the other almost feels fluid.
Despite the cliffhanger, Jess leaves no stone unturned. Every major question we have is answered with a jaw dropping plot twist and still leaves room for more storytelling. I’m still so shocked by how beautifully written In Beds of Flowers is and I can’t believe that this is Jess’ debut novel. It literally feels like I’m reading the work of an established and seasoned author; it’s so surreal. Reading this as a Beta reader was unbelievable. Experiencing it a second time and discovering little bits and details that I missed the first time is just mind blowing. Congratulations, Jess! Your debut was absolutely riveting! I can’t wait to see what you have in store for us with book 2!
Despite the cliffhanger, Jess leaves no stone unturned. Every major question we have is answered with a jaw dropping plot twist and still leaves room for more storytelling. I’m still so shocked by how beautifully written In Beds of Flowers is and I can’t believe that this is Jess’ debut novel. It literally feels like I’m reading the work of an established and seasoned author; it’s so surreal. Reading this as a Beta reader was unbelievable. Experiencing it a second time and discovering little bits and details that I missed the first time is just mind blowing. Congratulations, Jess! Your debut was absolutely riveting! I can’t wait to see what you have in store for us with book 2!
April 27, 2025
4.5/5 stars 🤩
“I'd tell you that if you ever wanted me, you'd need only ask, and I would be wholly yours. That I have been, ever since your eyes first met mine in the halls of this castle."
Are you kidding meeeeee with this 😭🔥
This book was all consuming in the best of ways. Dual time lines and multi POV’s were SO well done that I found myself so deeply invested in each and every characters story.
The jumps back and forth between timelines were expertly placed to keep the reader eagerly whipping through chapters. The pacing was fabulous and kept me interested the entire time and the slow burn 🔥🥵 magical. I ate👏🏻 it 👏🏻up 👏🏻
I am eager to read more in the next book because I have SO MANY QUESTIONS!!!!!
“I'd tell you that if you ever wanted me, you'd need only ask, and I would be wholly yours. That I have been, ever since your eyes first met mine in the halls of this castle."
Are you kidding meeeeee with this 😭🔥
This book was all consuming in the best of ways. Dual time lines and multi POV’s were SO well done that I found myself so deeply invested in each and every characters story.
The jumps back and forth between timelines were expertly placed to keep the reader eagerly whipping through chapters. The pacing was fabulous and kept me interested the entire time and the slow burn 🔥🥵 magical. I ate👏🏻 it 👏🏻up 👏🏻
I am eager to read more in the next book because I have SO MANY QUESTIONS!!!!!
March 19, 2025
Debut novel WHO?
This book started with Bridgeton vibes with so many questions of how the two storylines overlapped. By a third of the way through, I was completely abandoning my life and responsibilities to figure out WTF was going on because the plot twist was not at all what I saw coming. I genuinely loved this read, and will be needing book two asap. In Beds of Flowers deserves SOOOOO much hype ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you Jess Layne for gifting me an advanced reader copy! This is my honest opinion and I’m so grateful to have had the opportunity to review it.
This book started with Bridgeton vibes with so many questions of how the two storylines overlapped. By a third of the way through, I was completely abandoning my life and responsibilities to figure out WTF was going on because the plot twist was not at all what I saw coming. I genuinely loved this read, and will be needing book two asap. In Beds of Flowers deserves SOOOOO much hype ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you Jess Layne for gifting me an advanced reader copy! This is my honest opinion and I’m so grateful to have had the opportunity to review it.
March 19, 2025
Wow, wow WOW. First I have to comment on just how fluid and well rounded Jess' storytelling is. Debut novel WHERE? This was truly one of the best written debuts I've ever had the pleasure of reading.
Now onto the story itself.
We dive straight into action (and maybe some chaos) as soon as the story gets started, and it hardly lets up as the book progresses. Following 3 POVs over 2 timelines, we get to experience heartbreak and rage, immense love and self growth all topped with a healthy sprinkling of
angst(which is always my favorite)
Saying this story will keep you on your toes is the understatement of the year. Just when I thought I had the plot twists figured out another one would come my way and I'd be left reeling, again.
I don't know what voodoo Jess is putting into her MMCs but hot DAMN are these men swoon worthy to the highest degree. Dion deserves the world, and you can't change my mind.
The sheer resilience Thea shows broke my heart. In the same hand, seeing her gain her metaphorical teeth and claws through it all? Goosebumps.
I could literally go on and on but I'm simply running out of room.
PLEASE read this book, preorder if you can to support Jess and this wonderful world she's creating.
Now onto the story itself.
We dive straight into action (and maybe some chaos) as soon as the story gets started, and it hardly lets up as the book progresses. Following 3 POVs over 2 timelines, we get to experience heartbreak and rage, immense love and self growth all topped with a healthy sprinkling of
angst(which is always my favorite)
Saying this story will keep you on your toes is the understatement of the year. Just when I thought I had the plot twists figured out another one would come my way and I'd be left reeling, again.
I don't know what voodoo Jess is putting into her MMCs but hot DAMN are these men swoon worthy to the highest degree. Dion deserves the world, and you can't change my mind.
The sheer resilience Thea shows broke my heart. In the same hand, seeing her gain her metaphorical teeth and claws through it all? Goosebumps.
I could literally go on and on but I'm simply running out of room.
PLEASE read this book, preorder if you can to support Jess and this wonderful world she's creating.
April 30, 2025
And here is the review of the second book that I am lucky enough to read, to which without a doubt,i give 5 stars .... And a hug to the writer who will be my Author that I will read from now on with my eyes closed. First of all it is a debut and already there after I read it ... Really? I still don't believe it is a debut book for the way of writing, I couldn't, I didn't want to finish it ... I stayed up until 3 in the morning to read it because in this book there is everything from anger, drama, anguish but also a lot of love and growth. Sometimes reading it I felt on tenterhooks but I couldn't help it. I loved the MMC I was for most of the time with heart eyes and I was almost fainting ... They are special ... On the other hand the FMC is really tough, strong and how can you not lose your head for her forbidden love story? If you love like me the slow burn, the twists, the predestined companions, enemies to lovers and forced closeness, read this book. You have to. This writer truly deserves all the support and esteem of us readers. Vote 5
August 22, 2025
Holy smokes! This is my 5th RAINBOW READ! This book evolves at a rapid pace and will unravel your mind in the best ways - so pay attention to detail
“And if any of them should attack me because the male I am now makes fun of their ties? - then it’s a good thing you have me as your guard”
There will be no exploding in the library! 📚
Ok so this book bounces between 21 years earlier and present day, as well as two realms. Keep in mind that a LOT of questions and plots are all happening at once and you will definitely need your brain to unravel it all! It is beautifully written and put together and almost reads like the longest episode of Doctor Who mixed with Bridgerton and a touch of fae… definitely ACOTAR related!
Thea- Princess born and bred for a marriage at 21, she must choose her husband- but what happens when absolutely nothing goes to plan? She has 0 ideas of everything to come!
Dion- death magic has always been his to wield and the High King used him so well that he lost his heart! Maybe he was never deemed worthy by the gods to deserve happiness?
Ciaragan- Dion….. isn’t as terrible as he’s been put out to be?? I am drawn to him and am supposed to guard him, but he turned out…..
Adathan- I’m a traitor but not for her… her I shall train to fight and take down the High King
Olin- Dion will suffer, the world will suffer, she will be mine as was my right. And I will make this whole world burn!
There are So many plot twists and questions and most of them are answered if you just READ THE BOOK. I promise you will not regret it!!!
“And if any of them should attack me because the male I am now makes fun of their ties? - then it’s a good thing you have me as your guard”
There will be no exploding in the library! 📚
Ok so this book bounces between 21 years earlier and present day, as well as two realms. Keep in mind that a LOT of questions and plots are all happening at once and you will definitely need your brain to unravel it all! It is beautifully written and put together and almost reads like the longest episode of Doctor Who mixed with Bridgerton and a touch of fae… definitely ACOTAR related!
Thea- Princess born and bred for a marriage at 21, she must choose her husband- but what happens when absolutely nothing goes to plan? She has 0 ideas of everything to come!
Dion- death magic has always been his to wield and the High King used him so well that he lost his heart! Maybe he was never deemed worthy by the gods to deserve happiness?
Ciaragan- Dion….. isn’t as terrible as he’s been put out to be?? I am drawn to him and am supposed to guard him, but he turned out…..
Adathan- I’m a traitor but not for her… her I shall train to fight and take down the High King
Olin- Dion will suffer, the world will suffer, she will be mine as was my right. And I will make this whole world burn!
There are So many plot twists and questions and most of them are answered if you just READ THE BOOK. I promise you will not regret it!!!
July 26, 2025
Intricately woven dual timelines and multiple POV made this a complex story with a rewarding end of putting the overlap together. (And left me excited for all of the new questions to be answered in book two). I tried hard to piece together the details before I got to them with no luck - I enjoyed the challenge and unpredictably.
There were some slower moments I wanted less internal dialogue and descriptors and more character interaction. The plot was 10/10 and I can’t wait to get to know these characters more - especially Adathan.
(SJM fans - add to your TBR - this had TOG tandem read vibes for me which are hard to come by).
There were some slower moments I wanted less internal dialogue and descriptors and more character interaction. The plot was 10/10 and I can’t wait to get to know these characters more - especially Adathan.
(SJM fans - add to your TBR - this had TOG tandem read vibes for me which are hard to come by).
October 15, 2025
Amazing
The entire time I'm trying to figure out why the difference in POV matters and why it's only 21 years difference. I have to say I never saw it coming till the last chapter and holy crap I wasn't expecting it but I am so beyond grateful that it happened the way it did. I am totally in awe of how this book was written. Can't wait to read the next one.
The entire time I'm trying to figure out why the difference in POV matters and why it's only 21 years difference. I have to say I never saw it coming till the last chapter and holy crap I wasn't expecting it but I am so beyond grateful that it happened the way it did. I am totally in awe of how this book was written. Can't wait to read the next one.
July 17, 2025
4.5
“…I’d decided that hopeful was the bravest thing a person could be.”
“…I’d decided that hopeful was the bravest thing a person could be.”
September 6, 2025
ACOTAR meets Bridgerton! Cant wait for book 2
March 12, 2025
In Beds of Flowers is Jess Layne’s debut romantasy and the first book in the Canviant trilogy. When I read “or maybe she’ll stab him—again” in the plot summary, I knew immediately that I needed to read this book & it did not disappoint. The descriptive storytelling and banter pulled me in right away. I enjoyed learning more about the mythology, world building and characters from the duel timelines. The characters are genuine and easy to connect with, there’s a strong FMC and the forbidden romance with the love interest left me swooning. Definitely give this debut book a read if you’re a fan of slow burn, fated mates, enemies to lovers and forced proximity!
Thank you Jess Layne for the amazing opportunity to be on your ARC reader team!
Thank you Jess Layne for the amazing opportunity to be on your ARC reader team!
August 27, 2025
I’m honestly speechless right now! I don’t think I was ready for the ride this book took me on. The dual timelines had me confused at times, but wow everything clicked together perfectly by the end.
Every single question I had got answered, and my mind is completely blown. I am soo excited to read book two now!
Jess truly wrote a masterpiece. This one is definitely being added to my top romantasy list. Add it to your TBR ASAP!
Every single question I had got answered, and my mind is completely blown. I am soo excited to read book two now!
Jess truly wrote a masterpiece. This one is definitely being added to my top romantasy list. Add it to your TBR ASAP!
July 24, 2025
Book 2 can’t come soon enough. This book had me freaking out. Seriously. It only gets better as it goes, I loved all the main characters and their stories, and I loved big reveals and when everything intertwined. Jess Layne knows how to write🤯
February 19, 2025
*taps mic* 🗣️ YALL NEED TO READ THIS BOOK !!!!
This debut romantasy was swoony worthy, action packed, and full of raw emotion. Jess Layne does an incredible job developing a fantastic and engaging plot line while also producing the most heart felt and genuine characters. I mean it when I say there is something for everyone in this book!
🗡️stabby fmc
🖤 enemies to lovers
🗡️ touch her and die
🖤 shadow MOMMY 😏
🗡️forced proximity
🖤 slow burn… until it’s not ❤️🔥
The atmosphere is so fun and I truly felt like I was watching a movie in my head as I read this book.
The characters are so dynamic and it’s very heart warming to watch them develop over the length of the book. And not to mention this spice is SPICY 🥵 and so well written. It feels so right and authentic to the dynamics between the characters.
Jess absolutely nails the intricacies of this plot and leaves you so excited to find out more. I cannot wait to see how the trilogy continues to develop!
This debut romantasy was swoony worthy, action packed, and full of raw emotion. Jess Layne does an incredible job developing a fantastic and engaging plot line while also producing the most heart felt and genuine characters. I mean it when I say there is something for everyone in this book!
🗡️stabby fmc
🖤 enemies to lovers
🗡️ touch her and die
🖤 shadow MOMMY 😏
🗡️forced proximity
🖤 slow burn… until it’s not ❤️🔥
The atmosphere is so fun and I truly felt like I was watching a movie in my head as I read this book.
The characters are so dynamic and it’s very heart warming to watch them develop over the length of the book. And not to mention this spice is SPICY 🥵 and so well written. It feels so right and authentic to the dynamics between the characters.
Jess absolutely nails the intricacies of this plot and leaves you so excited to find out more. I cannot wait to see how the trilogy continues to develop!
April 17, 2025
I was bewildered how much I enjoyed this novel, it is full of spectacular plotting, world-building & dialogue. Genuinely devoured it in 1.5 sittings in less than 24 hours!!! Such an incredible debut, and I will be waiting (not so) patiently for the next :)
February 10, 2025
So so so good!!! The writing itself felt so approachable and realistic. But the characters?? I miss them everyday. The storyline?? It is one of the best developed storylines I have read as of late. There’s plot twists you don’t see coming. There’s anger, enemies to lovers, funny lines, and one of the most beautifully written love stories ever. I can’t wait for this book to come out so I can read it again and add it to my yearly re-reads list.
February 10, 2025
Simply amazing debut novel, with all the perfect romantasy tropes, yet done in a way that feels fresh and exciting. The characters are all a freakin’ vibe and I fell in love with the romance and character growth throughout the book - I mean, helloooo Dion 😍 I cannot wait for the rest of this series and I highly recommend this book to any fantasy/romance lovers.
August 21, 2025
"I'd tell you that if you ever wanted me, you'd need only ask, and I would be wholly yours. That I have been, ever since your eyes first met mine in the halls of this castle."
*taps mic* READ THIS BOOK IMMEDIATELY
Dual time lines and multi POV's were very well done and while it took a couple chapters to get them sorted in my mind, the progression is outstanding. I found myself so deeply invested in each and every characters story. The jumps back and forth between timelines were expertly placed, kept me eagerly awaiting to get back to the next storyline as much as I dreaded leaving the one I was in.
The plot twists are so expertly done, they come out of nowhere and literally have your jaw dropping . Truly I’ve never been as surprised as I was (multiple times) in this story.
As for characters, Princess Althea Cardenia, Lord Dion Evestre, Lady Ciaragen Vey and Adathan …. Ugh my heart bleeds for them and i’m on pins and needles waiting for the next book !! (Which lucky me I have an ARC waiting for me in my inbox as I type this!!!)
Truly one of the top stories I’ve read this year and I cannot believe this is a debut novel!!! It’s written as a pro, no doubt about it.
Tropes:
- Magic, fae, humans
- Enemies to lovers
- Stabby female
- Shadow Mommy
- Forced proximity
- Slow burn
- Touch her and die
-
Favorite Quotes:
- I had reminded her that scars may not bleed, but are always there, and remain as a symbol of survival and strength.
- But that was the thing about animals in cages. If they learned that they could only grow to be as big as it allowed, and believed that they could only have an impact within its walls, then they eventually stopped trying to become all they were meant to be. Strong, will-ful...free.
- "I'd tell you that I haven't been able to stop thinking about you since I first laid eyes on you.
- That I want you so badly that it's hard to concentrate on anything else. That I dream about how your lips might feel against mine, and how mine might feel on all parts of you. I'd tell you that if you ever wanted me, you'd need only ask, and I would be wholly yours. That I have been, ever since your eyes first met mine in the halls of this castle."
- What I don't think he realized is that broken glass is far more dangerous than a shining pane of it. Shattered, there's nothing left to lose. And it is far easier to kill with that razored edge
*taps mic* READ THIS BOOK IMMEDIATELY
Dual time lines and multi POV's were very well done and while it took a couple chapters to get them sorted in my mind, the progression is outstanding. I found myself so deeply invested in each and every characters story. The jumps back and forth between timelines were expertly placed, kept me eagerly awaiting to get back to the next storyline as much as I dreaded leaving the one I was in.
The plot twists are so expertly done, they come out of nowhere and literally have your jaw dropping . Truly I’ve never been as surprised as I was (multiple times) in this story.
As for characters, Princess Althea Cardenia, Lord Dion Evestre, Lady Ciaragen Vey and Adathan …. Ugh my heart bleeds for them and i’m on pins and needles waiting for the next book !! (Which lucky me I have an ARC waiting for me in my inbox as I type this!!!)
Truly one of the top stories I’ve read this year and I cannot believe this is a debut novel!!! It’s written as a pro, no doubt about it.
Tropes:
- Magic, fae, humans
- Enemies to lovers
- Stabby female
- Shadow Mommy
- Forced proximity
- Slow burn
- Touch her and die
-
Favorite Quotes:
- I had reminded her that scars may not bleed, but are always there, and remain as a symbol of survival and strength.
- But that was the thing about animals in cages. If they learned that they could only grow to be as big as it allowed, and believed that they could only have an impact within its walls, then they eventually stopped trying to become all they were meant to be. Strong, will-ful...free.
- "I'd tell you that I haven't been able to stop thinking about you since I first laid eyes on you.
- That I want you so badly that it's hard to concentrate on anything else. That I dream about how your lips might feel against mine, and how mine might feel on all parts of you. I'd tell you that if you ever wanted me, you'd need only ask, and I would be wholly yours. That I have been, ever since your eyes first met mine in the halls of this castle."
- What I don't think he realized is that broken glass is far more dangerous than a shining pane of it. Shattered, there's nothing left to lose. And it is far easier to kill with that razored edge
August 31, 2025
where do i even begin my thoughts on this book? i'd give this book a million stars if i could, really. i'm sitting at my desk having just finished and just shouted my feelings in jess' dms (jess hi if you're seeing this you have wrecked me).
devastating, heart wrenching, beautiful. there was not a single moment i was reading this book that i found myself bored, or wishing for something different. from the dual timelines to the world building to the blossoming love, i could not put this book down (except for those times where i was so invested that it physically pained me to keep reading and i had to pause to breathe). this world, these characters. jess has put so much love and thought and energy into crafting this story and it shines through on each page.
every plot twist, every new revelation, was genuinely jaw dropping. even if i had inkling of where an element of the story was going, i still was left just as shocked as the characters. i laughed, i yearned, i grieved with them.
and yes, of course, we need to talk about the love. the romance. the agonizing SLOW BURN that this book was and continues to be. i am such a sucker for a slow burn romance. for the yearning, for the agonizing thoughts of not being good enough for the person you ache for. for the subtle smiles, the brushes of hands, and for the "everyone around us knows but us." this book truly has some of the best romance i could ask for.
not only that, but the platonic love in this book leaves me physically aching. as someone who puts platonic love on par with romantic love, the friendships and the family found in this book were heart wrenchingly lovely. from thea and adathan to dion and ciaragen to nuria and jolie to the entire sabrian court, all i felt was love.
this book will stick with me for a long time, i'm quite sure.
devastating, heart wrenching, beautiful. there was not a single moment i was reading this book that i found myself bored, or wishing for something different. from the dual timelines to the world building to the blossoming love, i could not put this book down (except for those times where i was so invested that it physically pained me to keep reading and i had to pause to breathe). this world, these characters. jess has put so much love and thought and energy into crafting this story and it shines through on each page.
every plot twist, every new revelation, was genuinely jaw dropping. even if i had inkling of where an element of the story was going, i still was left just as shocked as the characters. i laughed, i yearned, i grieved with them.
and yes, of course, we need to talk about the love. the romance. the agonizing SLOW BURN that this book was and continues to be. i am such a sucker for a slow burn romance. for the yearning, for the agonizing thoughts of not being good enough for the person you ache for. for the subtle smiles, the brushes of hands, and for the "everyone around us knows but us." this book truly has some of the best romance i could ask for.
not only that, but the platonic love in this book leaves me physically aching. as someone who puts platonic love on par with romantic love, the friendships and the family found in this book were heart wrenchingly lovely. from thea and adathan to dion and ciaragen to nuria and jolie to the entire sabrian court, all i felt was love.
this book will stick with me for a long time, i'm quite sure.
July 19, 2025
I have very mixed feelings about this book, there was a lot that bugged me but also many things that I liked.
At the beginning I was really bothered by the errors in tense consistency. Several times while all the chapters were still in the past tense (even Thea’s) we suddenly found ourselves with sentences in the present tense in the middle of past tense paragraphs which threw me off each time and really distracted me from the reading.
In addition, there were quite a few oddly structured and convoluted sentences which forced me to double back and read them several times before I actually understood what they were trying to get at.
Finally, I think the book could have been edited further to be shorter overall. 150 pages in I was about to give up on the reading, I wasn’t connecting much with the characters or very intrigued by the plot.
THAT BEING SAID, I do want to read book 2 now. I much preferred the last third of the book to what had come before. I still had some issues with some odd sentences here and there but I liked where the story headed once Adathan and Althea were running from Olin.
I loved how the ending tied everything together and what was brought to light in those last chapters. I am very intrigued by the questions left unanswered by this first book and look forward to the next.
Moreover, how sweet were those acknowledgements? I loved them.
At the beginning I was really bothered by the errors in tense consistency. Several times while all the chapters were still in the past tense (even Thea’s) we suddenly found ourselves with sentences in the present tense in the middle of past tense paragraphs which threw me off each time and really distracted me from the reading.
In addition, there were quite a few oddly structured and convoluted sentences which forced me to double back and read them several times before I actually understood what they were trying to get at.
Finally, I think the book could have been edited further to be shorter overall. 150 pages in I was about to give up on the reading, I wasn’t connecting much with the characters or very intrigued by the plot.
THAT BEING SAID, I do want to read book 2 now. I much preferred the last third of the book to what had come before. I still had some issues with some odd sentences here and there but I liked where the story headed once Adathan and Althea were running from Olin.
I loved how the ending tied everything together and what was brought to light in those last chapters. I am very intrigued by the questions left unanswered by this first book and look forward to the next.
Moreover, how sweet were those acknowledgements? I loved them.
March 1, 2025
INFINITE STARS ✨
Truly one of my top reads of the year. I cannot believe this is her debut novel. I have found my new favorite author 🙇♀️ (I need book 2 now please, Jess)
Let me tell you the tropes so you get the vibes -
Romantasy
Strong (and stabby) FMCs full of feminine rage
Shadow mommy
Fated mates
Multi POVs
Plot twists (I’m still in a neck brace, recovering from the whiplash)
Slow burn with angst
Beautiful character arcs
Betrayal (prepare yourself)
Dual timelines (I usually hate dual timelines but this was perfect)
It’s hard to believe IBOF is 500+ pages because at no point was I bored.
The world building was *CHEFS KISS*. A lot of times in fantasy books, you have 100 pages of intense world building to digest but in IBOF, you learn as you go. It’s so refreshing. I found it easier to connect with the MCs and focus on the story
The characters. I want to tear up when I think about them. Do you ever feel genuinely connected to the characters of your favorite book? Like they’re a real person who you /know/? Maybe I’m just delulu but that’s how I feel about Thea, Ciaragen and Dion. They’re all complex yet easy to relate to. You can genuinely feel that Jess poured her heart into them. (brb I’m actually crying)
That’s it. I don’t want to spoil any of it. Go into it blind. Buy a neck brace for the plot twists and turns. Buy a carjack to pick your jaw up off the floor (because wtf was that ending, Jess!? 😭)
Truly one of my top reads of the year. I cannot believe this is her debut novel. I have found my new favorite author 🙇♀️ (I need book 2 now please, Jess)
Let me tell you the tropes so you get the vibes -
Romantasy
Strong (and stabby) FMCs full of feminine rage
Shadow mommy
Fated mates
Multi POVs
Plot twists (I’m still in a neck brace, recovering from the whiplash)
Slow burn with angst
Beautiful character arcs
Betrayal (prepare yourself)
Dual timelines (I usually hate dual timelines but this was perfect)
It’s hard to believe IBOF is 500+ pages because at no point was I bored.
The world building was *CHEFS KISS*. A lot of times in fantasy books, you have 100 pages of intense world building to digest but in IBOF, you learn as you go. It’s so refreshing. I found it easier to connect with the MCs and focus on the story
The characters. I want to tear up when I think about them. Do you ever feel genuinely connected to the characters of your favorite book? Like they’re a real person who you /know/? Maybe I’m just delulu but that’s how I feel about Thea, Ciaragen and Dion. They’re all complex yet easy to relate to. You can genuinely feel that Jess poured her heart into them. (brb I’m actually crying)
That’s it. I don’t want to spoil any of it. Go into it blind. Buy a neck brace for the plot twists and turns. Buy a carjack to pick your jaw up off the floor (because wtf was that ending, Jess!? 😭)
March 16, 2025
I’ve recently joined the SJM universe and the romantasy genre (yes after emerging from my Twilight era as a young gal). I, of course, really loved the classics like ACOTAR and Crescent City and loved (let’s be real) the rated X content hehe. But mainly! The character arcs (Nesta is my girl) and huge build ups/slow burns with big action. These characters were my family okay. I was nervous I wouldn’t be able to find another book that I really loved in this genre without it being tooooo similar to the SJM books I had already read. BUT In Beds of Flowers satisfied EVERYTHING I was looking for and also gave me something completely different. It’s a major twisty turny (my absolute fav) WITH MULTIPLE POVS (even more of my absolute fav) and TIME HOPS (best part of it all, I would’ve been sold on that alone). I’m also a series girlie, love a cliff hanger, and love following my characters across multiple books. And this is 1 of 3!! Girlllll you gotta read this, just sayin.
September 9, 2025
4.5 Stars
I really fell in love with this book the more I read it. I’m really excited to read the second book. I love the writing style, it definitely developed throughout the book and picked up. I did initially struggle with the first few pages but I am so glad I persevered.
The characters you’re meant to hate, you hate, and they’re written so well. There are so many characters for you to fall in love with and there is a wealth of representation and thoughtfulness. I love Ciaragen and I did eventually really start rooting for Althea. I found myself loving the changing of pace between the different POV’s and falling in love with each characters story and narrative.
There are some really nice twists and turns that I didn’t pick up whilst reading which is really nice, sometimes a books plot can be really predictable, I didn’t find that was the case for me here.
Read it!
I really fell in love with this book the more I read it. I’m really excited to read the second book. I love the writing style, it definitely developed throughout the book and picked up. I did initially struggle with the first few pages but I am so glad I persevered.
The characters you’re meant to hate, you hate, and they’re written so well. There are so many characters for you to fall in love with and there is a wealth of representation and thoughtfulness. I love Ciaragen and I did eventually really start rooting for Althea. I found myself loving the changing of pace between the different POV’s and falling in love with each characters story and narrative.
There are some really nice twists and turns that I didn’t pick up whilst reading which is really nice, sometimes a books plot can be really predictable, I didn’t find that was the case for me here.
Read it!
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