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The Kingdom of Ura #1
Third Time's the Charm
As the third son of the third son, Niamh Nestor is supposed to get a fae power on his sixteenth birthday. Instead he gets sentenced to a reform school for magically inclined youth, for committing a minor offence. At Carpathian Keep, he discovers a miserable world. The heads of the institution are sadistic, the teachers are cruel, the charges are mean and what is the painful sensation he feels on his neck in the evening?
The Keep hides deadly secrets, and Niamh must figure them out and escape before he and the few friends he makes bite the dust.
The Keep hides deadly secrets, and Niamh must figure them out and escape before he and the few friends he makes bite the dust.
Paperback
First published September 13, 2023
About the author
Gio Peters
11 books17 followersGio is an avid reader, his favourite genres being fantasy as well as Victorian classics. He combines these two genres in his debut series The Kingdom of Ura, which is a fantasy series set in the equivalent of Victorian/Edwardian era England. He wishes to see more LGBTQIA+ representation in literature, fantasy novels especially, hence the Kingdom of Ura is queer positive, specifically for bisexual and gay men.
He is a mental health advocate, animal lover (yes a vegetarian) and obtained his postgrad in English from the University of Cape Town.
He is a mental health advocate, animal lover (yes a vegetarian) and obtained his postgrad in English from the University of Cape Town.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
June 22, 2025
Thank you to the author, Gio Peters, for providing me with a free digital copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Third Time’s The Charm blends dark fantasy with a distinctly 1800s flair, immersing you in a gothic world of stone corridors, lantern-lit hallways, and social structures reminiscent of Victorian England—only here, fae magic breathes beneath every cobblestone. Gio Peters crafts a setting that feels both historical and wonderfully otherworldly.
At its centre is Niamh Nestor, the overlooked third son of a third son, who expects to come into his fae powers on his sixteenth birthday. Instead, he’s shipped off to Carpathian Keep—a grim reform school for the magically inclined—after a minor brush with the law. The Keep itself is almost another character: alive, watchful, oppressive, its damp stone walls and echoing halls brimming with secrets and menace. Within this sinister maze, Niamh finds himself entangled in cruel power games, sadistic authority figures, hostile peers, and the chilling mystery of a nightly pain at his neck that refuses to be ignored.
Peters also does something quite special: he builds a queer-normative society. The Kingdom of Ura is refreshingly free of homophobia, allowing queer relationships and identities to exist without trauma as their backdrop. This underlying acceptance infuses the story with a subtle hope, even amid the creeping dread and brutal reveals.
One of the real joys of the book is watching Niamh’s character arc. He starts off as a bit of a “crybaby”—overwhelmed, terrified, prone to tears—and by the end he’s transformed into something much braver: a reluctant but determined saviour, willing to shoulder risks far bigger than himself. It gives the book an emotional payoff that feels earned, despite some bumps along the way.
And there are bumps. The pacing can be uneven—certain emotional moments and major plot turns rush by before you’ve fully absorbed them, and Peters sometimes leaves connections or explanations for the reader to piece together on their own. Depending on your taste, that can either be a delicious puzzle or a slight frustration.
Still, this is an engaging, cleverly woven story. Peters delivers dark twists, clever reveals, and a satisfying sense of menace that lingers well after the final page. If you’re drawn to sinister boarding schools, fae-inflected magic, and stories where queer characters simply are—not tragedies or tokens but living, breathing heroes—then Third Time’s The Charm is worth a place on your shelf.
3.5 stars
Third Time’s The Charm blends dark fantasy with a distinctly 1800s flair, immersing you in a gothic world of stone corridors, lantern-lit hallways, and social structures reminiscent of Victorian England—only here, fae magic breathes beneath every cobblestone. Gio Peters crafts a setting that feels both historical and wonderfully otherworldly.
At its centre is Niamh Nestor, the overlooked third son of a third son, who expects to come into his fae powers on his sixteenth birthday. Instead, he’s shipped off to Carpathian Keep—a grim reform school for the magically inclined—after a minor brush with the law. The Keep itself is almost another character: alive, watchful, oppressive, its damp stone walls and echoing halls brimming with secrets and menace. Within this sinister maze, Niamh finds himself entangled in cruel power games, sadistic authority figures, hostile peers, and the chilling mystery of a nightly pain at his neck that refuses to be ignored.
Peters also does something quite special: he builds a queer-normative society. The Kingdom of Ura is refreshingly free of homophobia, allowing queer relationships and identities to exist without trauma as their backdrop. This underlying acceptance infuses the story with a subtle hope, even amid the creeping dread and brutal reveals.
One of the real joys of the book is watching Niamh’s character arc. He starts off as a bit of a “crybaby”—overwhelmed, terrified, prone to tears—and by the end he’s transformed into something much braver: a reluctant but determined saviour, willing to shoulder risks far bigger than himself. It gives the book an emotional payoff that feels earned, despite some bumps along the way.
And there are bumps. The pacing can be uneven—certain emotional moments and major plot turns rush by before you’ve fully absorbed them, and Peters sometimes leaves connections or explanations for the reader to piece together on their own. Depending on your taste, that can either be a delicious puzzle or a slight frustration.
Still, this is an engaging, cleverly woven story. Peters delivers dark twists, clever reveals, and a satisfying sense of menace that lingers well after the final page. If you’re drawn to sinister boarding schools, fae-inflected magic, and stories where queer characters simply are—not tragedies or tokens but living, breathing heroes—then Third Time’s The Charm is worth a place on your shelf.
3.5 stars
September 12, 2024
This book was absolutely amazing. It has everything from fantasy, suspence and a bit of romance.
Definitely read this if you enjoy reading about faeries, witches & many more.
I enjoyed reading about Niamh Nestor day to day life plus having to deal with all these strange things happening and trying to figure out what's going on.
Definitely read this if you enjoy reading about faeries, witches & many more.
I enjoyed reading about Niamh Nestor day to day life plus having to deal with all these strange things happening and trying to figure out what's going on.
April 10, 2026
Third Time’s the Charm is an atmospheric dark fantasy that immerses readers in the grim, claustrophobic world of Carpathian Keep—a reform school for magically gifted teens where cruelty is normalized and danger lurks in every hallway.
One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its world‑building. Peters crafts a setting that feels oppressive by design, echoing gothic classics like Carmilla and giving the school an almost horror‑adjacent presence. The prose is vivid and tense without becoming overwrought, and the carefully layered details make the setting feel fully realized and unsettling.
The story follows Niamh Nestor, who is sent to Carpathian Keep instead of receiving the fae power he expected on his sixteenth birthday. The premise is immediately compelling, and the plot unfolds at a steady, often gripping pace. Even readers who don’t typically reach for fantasy may find themselves drawn in by the blend of magic, political tension, and LGBTQ+ representation, all of which are woven naturally into the narrative rather than feeling performative.
That said, this is an undeniably dark book, and several elements may be difficult for some readers. The story includes multiple scenes involving sexual bullying and sexual assault, including interactions between adults and minors. These moments are central to the novel’s tone and themes, but they may feel excessive or unnecessary to some readers. Content warnings at the beginning of the book would have been especially helpful given the age of the characters.
The romance subplot is also complicated. The primary love interest begins the story as one of Niamh’s tormentors. While this dynamic may appeal to readers who enjoy morally gray or adversarial relationships, others may struggle to invest without more visible character growth or clear accountability.
Despite these concerns, Third Time’s the Charm offers clear strengths: immersive world‑building, a compellingly bleak atmosphere, and a unique blend of dark fantasy, gothic elements, and queer representation. For readers who enjoy intense, thematic fantasy and are prepared for heavy subject matter, this novel provides a richly imagined start to The Kingdom of Ura series.
⭐ Overall: Recommended for fans of dark fantasy and gothic fiction—with content awareness going in.
One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its world‑building. Peters crafts a setting that feels oppressive by design, echoing gothic classics like Carmilla and giving the school an almost horror‑adjacent presence. The prose is vivid and tense without becoming overwrought, and the carefully layered details make the setting feel fully realized and unsettling.
The story follows Niamh Nestor, who is sent to Carpathian Keep instead of receiving the fae power he expected on his sixteenth birthday. The premise is immediately compelling, and the plot unfolds at a steady, often gripping pace. Even readers who don’t typically reach for fantasy may find themselves drawn in by the blend of magic, political tension, and LGBTQ+ representation, all of which are woven naturally into the narrative rather than feeling performative.
That said, this is an undeniably dark book, and several elements may be difficult for some readers. The story includes multiple scenes involving sexual bullying and sexual assault, including interactions between adults and minors. These moments are central to the novel’s tone and themes, but they may feel excessive or unnecessary to some readers. Content warnings at the beginning of the book would have been especially helpful given the age of the characters.
The romance subplot is also complicated. The primary love interest begins the story as one of Niamh’s tormentors. While this dynamic may appeal to readers who enjoy morally gray or adversarial relationships, others may struggle to invest without more visible character growth or clear accountability.
Despite these concerns, Third Time’s the Charm offers clear strengths: immersive world‑building, a compellingly bleak atmosphere, and a unique blend of dark fantasy, gothic elements, and queer representation. For readers who enjoy intense, thematic fantasy and are prepared for heavy subject matter, this novel provides a richly imagined start to The Kingdom of Ura series.
⭐ Overall: Recommended for fans of dark fantasy and gothic fiction—with content awareness going in.
November 3, 2025
This 1st book, in a longer series, was an absolute joy to read. Throughout my experience, I couldn't help but wish this quality of YA book was available to my teen self; YA in the 80s wasn't its own genre to any great degree. Those books that were written specifically for teens tended towards light "mystery", the occasional mid quality scifi-fan, and poorly written retellings of children's fables.
TTTC is _rich_ with clever world-building, filled with enough lore to answer questions, and clever in the way that it sprinkles puzzle pieces throughout. Peters has a rare knack for patiently presenting a story that disguises common themes, and expectations, found in fantasy in what appears to be "normal" or "mundane" events. It was at the 75% mark that I realised how much time IRL I had been reading. Niamh, the main narrator, grabs you by the hand, leads you along the path of a fairly short -- but gravely important -- period in his life, and refuses to let you go until the end!
And the villains!!! With Peters, we _finally_ get the return of true, classic, irredeemable villains!!! All the _named_ characters, hero, villain, or neither, are completely realised on page. Rather than overload the reader with page after endless page of "backstory" exposition, we are treated to the characters being _exactly_ who they claim to be, in the present, in the text, unashamedly. There is no unearned redemption, there is no "everyone is basically good, but misunderstood", there is no hand-waving excusing of ab*se presented as "conflict" between characters. They are raw, they are each flawed in their own way, they are made _real_.
I have only one note of concern for the Average Bear reader: the writing is both dense -- in lore and use of descriptors -- and presented in a language style that is _appropriate_ to the setting of late Victorian UK. Because there are no anachronistic terms (modern speech misplaced in time), the text may take some getting used to. However, anyone that has enjoyed 19th & early 20th c classics should have little difficulty getting immersed in this tale.
This is a tale of Love, wrapped in a terror-fueled Mystery, tied with a Hero's Quest ribbon.
TTTC is _rich_ with clever world-building, filled with enough lore to answer questions, and clever in the way that it sprinkles puzzle pieces throughout. Peters has a rare knack for patiently presenting a story that disguises common themes, and expectations, found in fantasy in what appears to be "normal" or "mundane" events. It was at the 75% mark that I realised how much time IRL I had been reading. Niamh, the main narrator, grabs you by the hand, leads you along the path of a fairly short -- but gravely important -- period in his life, and refuses to let you go until the end!
And the villains!!! With Peters, we _finally_ get the return of true, classic, irredeemable villains!!! All the _named_ characters, hero, villain, or neither, are completely realised on page. Rather than overload the reader with page after endless page of "backstory" exposition, we are treated to the characters being _exactly_ who they claim to be, in the present, in the text, unashamedly. There is no unearned redemption, there is no "everyone is basically good, but misunderstood", there is no hand-waving excusing of ab*se presented as "conflict" between characters. They are raw, they are each flawed in their own way, they are made _real_.
I have only one note of concern for the Average Bear reader: the writing is both dense -- in lore and use of descriptors -- and presented in a language style that is _appropriate_ to the setting of late Victorian UK. Because there are no anachronistic terms (modern speech misplaced in time), the text may take some getting used to. However, anyone that has enjoyed 19th & early 20th c classics should have little difficulty getting immersed in this tale.
This is a tale of Love, wrapped in a terror-fueled Mystery, tied with a Hero's Quest ribbon.
August 28, 2025
I bought this book after reading the first chapter in the First Look feature. I was not disappointed. I wanted Gothic, and it was presented in spades. I would put the mood on the level of Bram Stoker or Anne Rice. I know this sounds over the top, but I beg you to give this a chance and call me wrong. The writing is good enough that too many times I felt less like I was reading a book of fiction, and more like I was experiencing an historical document.
The characters are dark and brooding. Even the hero and his friends are grim and overcast without being morally grey. The villains are delicious, with a BBEG that is a mustache-twirling caricature of an old-school villain. And yet there are in-world reasons that it makes sense! The hate and spite between the students is believable, and when some are forced to work together, the attitudes are entirely believable. The author did an amazing job of describing attitudes and motivations.
I had the ending and a few other scenarios figured out due to regularly occurring tropes, but every time they were subverted in the most wonderful ways. If I have to give any warning at all, it is that this book is apologetically LGBT friendly. the main character is gay, in fact, all of his problems start because of him falling for the wrong man. But him being gay is not a problem by the created society.
Speaking of society, this is a wonderful recreation of Elizabethian-era Europe... with wizards, fae, shapeshifters, and all sorts of other supernatural tidbits liberally spread throughout. The created lore adds so much to the mood and vibe of the book.
And now I have seven more to read! The author says they are linked by shared characters, but are each standalone stories. So you can check this one out without having to worry you are committing to an entire series.
The characters are dark and brooding. Even the hero and his friends are grim and overcast without being morally grey. The villains are delicious, with a BBEG that is a mustache-twirling caricature of an old-school villain. And yet there are in-world reasons that it makes sense! The hate and spite between the students is believable, and when some are forced to work together, the attitudes are entirely believable. The author did an amazing job of describing attitudes and motivations.
I had the ending and a few other scenarios figured out due to regularly occurring tropes, but every time they were subverted in the most wonderful ways. If I have to give any warning at all, it is that this book is apologetically LGBT friendly. the main character is gay, in fact, all of his problems start because of him falling for the wrong man. But him being gay is not a problem by the created society.
Speaking of society, this is a wonderful recreation of Elizabethian-era Europe... with wizards, fae, shapeshifters, and all sorts of other supernatural tidbits liberally spread throughout. The created lore adds so much to the mood and vibe of the book.
And now I have seven more to read! The author says they are linked by shared characters, but are each standalone stories. So you can check this one out without having to worry you are committing to an entire series.
July 22, 2024
I received a copy of Third Time’s the Charm from the author, for reviewing purposes, and am so glad that I did! TTTC is fun, deliberate and engages the mind, and is thoughtfully constructed. I also found it so engaging to have such teetering character 'morals'/actions between kindness, gentleness, and viciousness and callousness. It made me question everything in the best ways possible when almost no one was clear-cut and there were all of these grey zones. I'd recommend the Kingdom of Ura series to readers who like sort of psychological-romance-mysteries in loose fantasy settings, and with rich magic systems and highly diverse societies and socio-political systems, or any combination of these.
Rating Third Time’s the Charm a high 4/5, losing that one point only because of my personal enjoyment being hijacked by some of the horror and violence elements, and because I had minor difficulty with visualising settings – purely aesthetic and subjective points, really. If you are more plot- and character- focused, you will love this book!
Rating Third Time’s the Charm a high 4/5, losing that one point only because of my personal enjoyment being hijacked by some of the horror and violence elements, and because I had minor difficulty with visualising settings – purely aesthetic and subjective points, really. If you are more plot- and character- focused, you will love this book!
April 12, 2024
Compelling story but lackluster execution.
I found the story compelling enough. Heavy gender ideology. The writing style is blunt and juvenile, with too much sexual bullying for my taste.
I found the story compelling enough. Heavy gender ideology. The writing style is blunt and juvenile, with too much sexual bullying for my taste.
June 14, 2026
Disclaimer: Book received for free
Third Time’s the Charm is a fantasy narrative set in a Victorian-inspired magical world. The world is filled with every kind of mystical creature, from faeries to shapeshifters. This makes it a perfect story for those who want to be able to immerse themselves in a world that will keep them entertained for quite a long time. A major reason for this is that this is merely the first book in a series of seven books within this fantasy world, and so if you are looking for something to keep you occupied for quite a while, this should be a great read for you.
The story within this world is one that takes inspiration from novels like Jane Eyre, with its character caught in a reform school system that serves as a living hell to the youngsters forced to remain. However, while there are certain YA sensibilities at play here, like characters in a magical school, the story is intended for adults as queer sexual themes do take central place in the story (and a content warning is necessary as there are instances of sexual assault present).
The language you will find takes strong inspiration from Romantic and Victorian literature, albeit with some more modern language thrown into the mix. The use of purple prose is intermittent but not consistent throughout, although, as I have read the fourth book in this series in the past, there is a more consistent use of classic-style language in the later books. As this is the first text in the series, its voice needed to be determined, and it appears that the language elements are leaned into with greater effect in later stories.
So, if you are looking for an entertaining romp through a fantasy world that promises more to come, give it a shot and see where it takes you.
Third Time’s the Charm is a fantasy narrative set in a Victorian-inspired magical world. The world is filled with every kind of mystical creature, from faeries to shapeshifters. This makes it a perfect story for those who want to be able to immerse themselves in a world that will keep them entertained for quite a long time. A major reason for this is that this is merely the first book in a series of seven books within this fantasy world, and so if you are looking for something to keep you occupied for quite a while, this should be a great read for you.
The story within this world is one that takes inspiration from novels like Jane Eyre, with its character caught in a reform school system that serves as a living hell to the youngsters forced to remain. However, while there are certain YA sensibilities at play here, like characters in a magical school, the story is intended for adults as queer sexual themes do take central place in the story (and a content warning is necessary as there are instances of sexual assault present).
The language you will find takes strong inspiration from Romantic and Victorian literature, albeit with some more modern language thrown into the mix. The use of purple prose is intermittent but not consistent throughout, although, as I have read the fourth book in this series in the past, there is a more consistent use of classic-style language in the later books. As this is the first text in the series, its voice needed to be determined, and it appears that the language elements are leaned into with greater effect in later stories.
So, if you are looking for an entertaining romp through a fantasy world that promises more to come, give it a shot and see where it takes you.
September 1, 2026
Gothic Fantasy with classic influences.
The author presents the Kindgom of Ura as a fictional world based on the Victorian era with a lot of gothic influences from classics like 'Dracula' and 'Carmilla'. We follow the story of 16 year old Niamh Nestor from a shy boy to someone who stands up for his friends and finds love along the way.
There are some beautifully written, almost poetic passages throughout the novel, and I enjoyed recognising some of the Gothic influences woven into the story. Niamh's young age also comes through clearly in his voice and reactions, giving the novel what, to me, often felt like a YA style despite its darker and more mature content.
Where the novel didn't quite work for me was on an emotional level. Although a great deal happens to Niamh, I often felt that I was being told what he experienced rather than experiencing it alongside him. Some major events and losses passed surprisingly quickly, while other information, particularly through the diary entries, was repeated several times. As a result, I struggled to become as emotionally invested in Niamh and his relationships as I would have liked.
Overall, there are some imaginative ideas here and some genuinely lovely passages of prose, particularly for readers who enjoy Gothic-inspired fantasy, magical schools and young protagonists finding their place in the world. For me personally, however, the emotional connection and worldbuilding weren't quite strong enough to make me fully lose myself in the story.
The author presents the Kindgom of Ura as a fictional world based on the Victorian era with a lot of gothic influences from classics like 'Dracula' and 'Carmilla'. We follow the story of 16 year old Niamh Nestor from a shy boy to someone who stands up for his friends and finds love along the way.
There are some beautifully written, almost poetic passages throughout the novel, and I enjoyed recognising some of the Gothic influences woven into the story. Niamh's young age also comes through clearly in his voice and reactions, giving the novel what, to me, often felt like a YA style despite its darker and more mature content.
Where the novel didn't quite work for me was on an emotional level. Although a great deal happens to Niamh, I often felt that I was being told what he experienced rather than experiencing it alongside him. Some major events and losses passed surprisingly quickly, while other information, particularly through the diary entries, was repeated several times. As a result, I struggled to become as emotionally invested in Niamh and his relationships as I would have liked.
Overall, there are some imaginative ideas here and some genuinely lovely passages of prose, particularly for readers who enjoy Gothic-inspired fantasy, magical schools and young protagonists finding their place in the world. For me personally, however, the emotional connection and worldbuilding weren't quite strong enough to make me fully lose myself in the story.
March 7, 2023
Immerse yourself in a refreshing gothic fantasy story by debut author Gio Peters.
Niamh Nestor the main character just reached out and grabbed by heart from the beginning as the local bullies a trio of witches set out to torture him just as he comes to his sixteenth birthday. Niamh has a crush on a beautiful merman and hopes to see him on his birthday but the witches interfere and cause him to experience shame and embarrassment by stealing his clothes and accusing him of something that didn't happen. I had tears for Niamh at the hands of his bullies something I can relate to and was rooting for him to give them what they deserved. As the story progresses Niamh shows remarkable growth as he learns to stand up for himself and the few friends that he makes.
Niamh finds himself trapped in Carpathian Keep a terrifying place that can change before your eyes. Some of the passages were so intense I found myself holding my breath waiting for what was going to happen next. I’m trying very hard not include any spoilers so you will have to read it yourself.
I loved the way the author develops Niamh showing growth and maturity as the story progresses. He basically goes from a scared “kid” to an amazing young man that can stand up for himself and the friends he makes at Carpathian Keep. The story also introduces us to many different characters that are LGBTQ+ it shows they have heart and are very believable.``
You won't regret reading this amazing story!
Niamh Nestor the main character just reached out and grabbed by heart from the beginning as the local bullies a trio of witches set out to torture him just as he comes to his sixteenth birthday. Niamh has a crush on a beautiful merman and hopes to see him on his birthday but the witches interfere and cause him to experience shame and embarrassment by stealing his clothes and accusing him of something that didn't happen. I had tears for Niamh at the hands of his bullies something I can relate to and was rooting for him to give them what they deserved. As the story progresses Niamh shows remarkable growth as he learns to stand up for himself and the few friends that he makes.
Niamh finds himself trapped in Carpathian Keep a terrifying place that can change before your eyes. Some of the passages were so intense I found myself holding my breath waiting for what was going to happen next. I’m trying very hard not include any spoilers so you will have to read it yourself.
I loved the way the author develops Niamh showing growth and maturity as the story progresses. He basically goes from a scared “kid” to an amazing young man that can stand up for himself and the friends he makes at Carpathian Keep. The story also introduces us to many different characters that are LGBTQ+ it shows they have heart and are very believable.``
You won't regret reading this amazing story!
February 10, 2024
"Third Time's the Charm" by Gio Peters is a spellbinding journey through a richly imagined world that kept me captivated from beginning to end. In the span of just under two days, I found myself fully immersed in the intricate tapestry of this fantasy realm.
At the heart of the story is the fierce connection and gripping conflicts between Niamh and Matthias. Their journey is set against the backdrop of a world filled with vivid imagery and fantastical elements, adding an extra layer of depth to their tale.
The bond shared between Niamh, Theron, and Caligula resonates with emotional authenticity, while the individual stories of characters like Ahmad, Leland, Blaine, Jordan, Taylor, and Riley are as compelling as they are inspiring.
Peters' masterful storytelling weaves together themes of love, redemption, and self-discovery with precision, creating a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking. Additionally, the tumultuous relationship between Niamh and Clark adds a tantalizing element of suspense to the plot.
In conclusion, "Third Time's the Charm" is a must-read for fans of rich fantasy worlds and heartfelt storytelling. Peters has crafted a novel that transports readers to another realm while exploring timeless themes that resonate deeply with the human experience.
At the heart of the story is the fierce connection and gripping conflicts between Niamh and Matthias. Their journey is set against the backdrop of a world filled with vivid imagery and fantastical elements, adding an extra layer of depth to their tale.
The bond shared between Niamh, Theron, and Caligula resonates with emotional authenticity, while the individual stories of characters like Ahmad, Leland, Blaine, Jordan, Taylor, and Riley are as compelling as they are inspiring.
Peters' masterful storytelling weaves together themes of love, redemption, and self-discovery with precision, creating a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking. Additionally, the tumultuous relationship between Niamh and Clark adds a tantalizing element of suspense to the plot.
In conclusion, "Third Time's the Charm" is a must-read for fans of rich fantasy worlds and heartfelt storytelling. Peters has crafted a novel that transports readers to another realm while exploring timeless themes that resonate deeply with the human experience.
June 12, 2023
Review
My typical hope for a newly published author is to find a decent plot line and a book I can finish, but I was absolutely thrilled when I found myself in an imaginary world so rich that it felt like I was reading something akin to Game of Thrones. I had forgotten all about the real world and very quickly found myself rooting for Niamh. The minor characters were absolutely fascinating with a faerie, an ogre, shape-shifting, vampires, and I can’t even name all of the spectacular characters that were skillfully woven into the plot. I didn’t think it could be done, but somehow, every time that I thought I knew exactly what would happen next, there was an unpredictable twist! At one point, I started hating Niamh for how much he cried, but somehow I found myself forgiving him and loving him, time after time, until he grew up. I can’t say much else without giving it away, but this is the book every fantasy lover should read!! You won’t be disappointed.
I should note that the main character is a young gay male but from the approach of a nearly middle aged woman, I found the entire story tastefully done and completely relatable so if you are thinking twice I about it—take the plunge and enjoy the mesmerizing world that Mr. Peters has gifted us.
My typical hope for a newly published author is to find a decent plot line and a book I can finish, but I was absolutely thrilled when I found myself in an imaginary world so rich that it felt like I was reading something akin to Game of Thrones. I had forgotten all about the real world and very quickly found myself rooting for Niamh. The minor characters were absolutely fascinating with a faerie, an ogre, shape-shifting, vampires, and I can’t even name all of the spectacular characters that were skillfully woven into the plot. I didn’t think it could be done, but somehow, every time that I thought I knew exactly what would happen next, there was an unpredictable twist! At one point, I started hating Niamh for how much he cried, but somehow I found myself forgiving him and loving him, time after time, until he grew up. I can’t say much else without giving it away, but this is the book every fantasy lover should read!! You won’t be disappointed.
I should note that the main character is a young gay male but from the approach of a nearly middle aged woman, I found the entire story tastefully done and completely relatable so if you are thinking twice I about it—take the plunge and enjoy the mesmerizing world that Mr. Peters has gifted us.
December 31, 2025
This book is a strong, thoughtful start to the series, and I genuinely enjoyed this first installment.
Niamh is a compelling main character, and what really kept me engaged was his personal journey — being sent to a reform school and having to navigate a system designed to restrict, punish, and control those who don’t fit neatly into expectations. His experience feels layered and emotionally grounded, and it’s easy to root for him as he tries to understand who he is and where he belongs.
I especially appreciated how the book explores sexuality and LGBTQ themes in a subtle, meaningful way. It never feels forced or heavy-handed, but instead unfolds naturally through Niamh’s perspective. The reform school setting works as an effective social commentary — an echo of how, even as society becomes more open, there are still systems and stigmas that seek to punish uniqueness and difference.
The world-building is solid and immersive without overwhelming the story, and it sets a strong foundation for what feels like a much larger journey ahead. Overall, this book balances character, theme, and setting very well.
Definitely recommended, and I’m looking forward to continuing the series.
Niamh is a compelling main character, and what really kept me engaged was his personal journey — being sent to a reform school and having to navigate a system designed to restrict, punish, and control those who don’t fit neatly into expectations. His experience feels layered and emotionally grounded, and it’s easy to root for him as he tries to understand who he is and where he belongs.
I especially appreciated how the book explores sexuality and LGBTQ themes in a subtle, meaningful way. It never feels forced or heavy-handed, but instead unfolds naturally through Niamh’s perspective. The reform school setting works as an effective social commentary — an echo of how, even as society becomes more open, there are still systems and stigmas that seek to punish uniqueness and difference.
The world-building is solid and immersive without overwhelming the story, and it sets a strong foundation for what feels like a much larger journey ahead. Overall, this book balances character, theme, and setting very well.
Definitely recommended, and I’m looking forward to continuing the series.
September 13, 2023
The writing in this book has been crafted in such a delightful way! The themes and events themselves go to pretty dark places, but no event feels contrived or forced; everything flows with a natural progression.
I was never pulled out of the story with thoughts of, "Well that doesn't make sense" or, "Why would that have happened?" It feels real. The characters each have their own unique voice, and they range from infuriating, interesting, endearing, and terrifying.
The descriptive narration, the dialogue full of personality, and the realistic internal monologue all carry you through the story as if you're actually there. Despite being a genre that I wouldn't normally read, I was mentally engaged and emotionally invested all the way to the end (for better or worse. Like I said, the main character goes to some dark places, literally and figuratively.)
It's an excellent beginning to a series!
I was never pulled out of the story with thoughts of, "Well that doesn't make sense" or, "Why would that have happened?" It feels real. The characters each have their own unique voice, and they range from infuriating, interesting, endearing, and terrifying.
The descriptive narration, the dialogue full of personality, and the realistic internal monologue all carry you through the story as if you're actually there. Despite being a genre that I wouldn't normally read, I was mentally engaged and emotionally invested all the way to the end (for better or worse. Like I said, the main character goes to some dark places, literally and figuratively.)
It's an excellent beginning to a series!
January 31, 2025
The author very kindly provided me with a copy of their book to review.
The main highlights of this were the world-building and descriptive prose. The author's clever use of language made the atmosphere feel tense and oppressive. The references to Carmilla were very apt as a lot of the book felt like a gothic horror in terms of the school atmosphere and oppressive teachers. Clearly a lot of time and effort went into the world-building and, as a result, it was extremely effective.
I would echo other reviewers in having content warnings at the start would have been nice, as there are a lot of references and explicit behaviour of sexual bullying and sexual assault. Which is fine, but I would have liked to have been a bit more prepared for. I also would have liked to see the love interest go through so more character development and recognition of their past behaviour as wrong.
Overall, a really atmospheric novel with strong world-building and descriptive prose.
The main highlights of this were the world-building and descriptive prose. The author's clever use of language made the atmosphere feel tense and oppressive. The references to Carmilla were very apt as a lot of the book felt like a gothic horror in terms of the school atmosphere and oppressive teachers. Clearly a lot of time and effort went into the world-building and, as a result, it was extremely effective.
I would echo other reviewers in having content warnings at the start would have been nice, as there are a lot of references and explicit behaviour of sexual bullying and sexual assault. Which is fine, but I would have liked to have been a bit more prepared for. I also would have liked to see the love interest go through so more character development and recognition of their past behaviour as wrong.
Overall, a really atmospheric novel with strong world-building and descriptive prose.
February 18, 2025
Mystical and jam packed with so many magical folk in the world of Ura, Three Time's the Charm follows the story of young Niamh who's set to receive his magical abilities on his 16th birthday. Unfortunately he ends up in the dark and hellish place called Carpathian Keep. A horrible place ran by a horrible faculty hellbent on inflicting harm and misery to those sent there for breaking the laws.
The main character, Niamh Nester, has tremendous growth as both a person and character, as well as his friends and loved ones all around him as they eventually learn about themselves and their strengths that bring them all together in an attempt to escape Carpathian Keep.
While not my preferred genre, Three Time's the Charm kept me engaged and hooked all the way to the last page. A truly wonderful read.
The main character, Niamh Nester, has tremendous growth as both a person and character, as well as his friends and loved ones all around him as they eventually learn about themselves and their strengths that bring them all together in an attempt to escape Carpathian Keep.
While not my preferred genre, Three Time's the Charm kept me engaged and hooked all the way to the last page. A truly wonderful read.
March 21, 2026
This book was beautifully written, I loved the language being used as it was set in the 1800’s
This is a story of magical beings from ogres, vampires, witches and fae to all the variations those supernatural beings could possibly be! It’s starts in the humble small town of our MMC and primarily takes place at what is essentially a magical reform school for 16-18 year olds.
Niamh was such a wonderful MMC he was raw and vulnerable, he was kind, he made mistakes, he loves whole heartedly.
He was also bullied by witches, sent to a reform school for kissing a merman, found friendships and love in adversity, lost his humanity and managed to throw a coup!
I fell in love with so many side characters from Liezel, Herman, Matthias, Theron and even the grumpy Caligula!
I am so excited to see where this series goes!!
This is a story of magical beings from ogres, vampires, witches and fae to all the variations those supernatural beings could possibly be! It’s starts in the humble small town of our MMC and primarily takes place at what is essentially a magical reform school for 16-18 year olds.
Niamh was such a wonderful MMC he was raw and vulnerable, he was kind, he made mistakes, he loves whole heartedly.
He was also bullied by witches, sent to a reform school for kissing a merman, found friendships and love in adversity, lost his humanity and managed to throw a coup!
I fell in love with so many side characters from Liezel, Herman, Matthias, Theron and even the grumpy Caligula!
I am so excited to see where this series goes!!
May 15, 2023
It was a wild ride from start to finish. Peters writes with a clear passion for his characters and has a true talent for describing things either very beautifully or truly horrifically as the need arises. The only reason I give it a 4 star rating is because I am not a keen reader of dark fantasy and can only say that the violent and graphic nature of some parts of the story had me questioning whether or not to carry on reading at some points (something I think a lover of horror would very much appreciate). The world he created is vast and fascinating and the characters are unique. I am looking forward to learning more about this kingdom called Ura.
June 2, 2025
The main character in the book Naimh Nestor who is supposed to get far powers on his 16th birthday but instead he gets sentenced to a reformed school!
It took me long time to finish the book cause I wanted to make sure im reading every word until the end...worth it!!
I enjoyed following the main character on this journey. Gio wrote this book very clear and with strong emotion he knows how to describe the world building and I personally think this book challenges many issues of our current society especially the LGBTQIA+ community.
I never thought I would be so invested in this lgbtqia+ fantasy novel.
PROUD OF YOU GIO♡♡
It took me long time to finish the book cause I wanted to make sure im reading every word until the end...worth it!!
I enjoyed following the main character on this journey. Gio wrote this book very clear and with strong emotion he knows how to describe the world building and I personally think this book challenges many issues of our current society especially the LGBTQIA+ community.
I never thought I would be so invested in this lgbtqia+ fantasy novel.
PROUD OF YOU GIO♡♡
February 15, 2026
I'm not particularly big into fantasy but this book was an exception. I particularly like dark stories and uncomfortable moments and this story delivered that perfectly. A young Fae boy caught in a situation where he is stuck in a correctional facility that is already dark on the surface, but in further investigation turns out to be utterly deprived. The fantasy of the species and the realism of social interaction was well blended. I will say it's sometimes hard to keep up with all the characters and there is a lot of preparation and setting to take in, but once you get your basic bearings it sails smoothly. I look forward to the other books to this series!
May 19, 2026
I mean, wowzers. First off, if you love a long book with a whole host of amazingly written characters, you're on the right track. The detail and imagination in Third Times The Charm is out of this world. Gio writes amazing battle scenes as well. I LOVE a good magical battle scene, and I was on the edge of my seat while reading Third Times The Charm. There was always something hidden around the corner, twists I didn't even see coming, and that's a first!
If you want a book that's going to keep you immersed, wanting to know what's about to happen and being shocked when it does happen, this is the book for you! Romance, heartbreak, magic and more!
If you want a book that's going to keep you immersed, wanting to know what's about to happen and being shocked when it does happen, this is the book for you! Romance, heartbreak, magic and more!
July 25, 2026
What a unique reading experience sinking my teeth into Third Time’s the Charm.
The first half of the book is about learning the magical world through Niamh’s worldview. Seeing it through his eyes and experiences. Learning how to navigate and adapt to a world where the rules don’t make sense and cruelty reigns.
Niamh’s choices define who he is, who he strives to be, and how the world receives him.
The second half of the book explores how those choices affect the world around him and challenge the status quo.
There is a lot to take away from this book, both in the story itself and in the underlying messages woven throughout.
The first half of the book is about learning the magical world through Niamh’s worldview. Seeing it through his eyes and experiences. Learning how to navigate and adapt to a world where the rules don’t make sense and cruelty reigns.
Niamh’s choices define who he is, who he strives to be, and how the world receives him.
The second half of the book explores how those choices affect the world around him and challenge the status quo.
There is a lot to take away from this book, both in the story itself and in the underlying messages woven throughout.
March 14, 2023
First off, fantasy is not my preferred genre. So if I'm giving this book 5 stars, it must be special. Gio Peters is an excellent writer and storyteller. He knows how to describe a world, characters, and situations in a vivid and compelling way. The plot sucked me in quickly and held my attention throughout. I empathized with the young fae hero and felt his pain. The fact that LGBTQ+ characters, in all their glorious diversity, populate this book is a rare treat and makes this book all the more important. Highly recommended!
February 15, 2024
This is a spooky, fun and cute YA novel with romance.
It's very fun and thrilling and I loved all characters, the good ones and the bad ones, but Niamh and Matthias above all!
Niamh is so pure and innocent omg, I felt so bad for the things that happen to him and that he has to passively endure. However he has an interesting development, becoming a bit more "grey" later on.
Matthias is such a fascinating character to me. He sounded so cocky in the beginning but I loved how he turned out to be.
The story is thrilling, enjoyable and fun with several twists and the ending is so cute!
It's very fun and thrilling and I loved all characters, the good ones and the bad ones, but Niamh and Matthias above all!
Niamh is so pure and innocent omg, I felt so bad for the things that happen to him and that he has to passively endure. However he has an interesting development, becoming a bit more "grey" later on.
Matthias is such a fascinating character to me. He sounded so cocky in the beginning but I loved how he turned out to be.
The story is thrilling, enjoyable and fun with several twists and the ending is so cute!
April 16, 2024
I overall enjoyed this book. I do wish trigger warnings were present before I started reading, maybe they were and I just missed them, but I was a little unprepared for the amount of sexual bullying and sexual assault that occurs. Our main characters are minors so I was a bit off put by more then a couple scenes. I enjoyed the casual LGBTQ Rep and some of the dialog got a good chuckle out of me.
I’ll be checking out the next books eventually since I did enjoy the book overall, but the amount of sexual bullying just left me feeling lukewarm.
I’ll be checking out the next books eventually since I did enjoy the book overall, but the amount of sexual bullying just left me feeling lukewarm.
October 27, 2024
Third Time’s The Charm by Gio Peters is one of five books in The Kingdom of Ura series, and it is currently $0.99 on Amazon Kindle format. The Third Time’s The Charm is like reading a cross between Game of Thrones, Fantasy, and LGBTQ+; you can’t get better than that trio. Even though fantasy is not my preferred genre, I absolutely loved this read, as well as the characters and the plot! I think Gio Peters did a fantastic job on book one of The Kingdom of Ura series; I couldn’t put this book down even while out of town attending a concert, and I can’t wait to start book two!!
February 27, 2023
I had the privilege of beta reading this novel and I enjoyed it a lot.
The world-building is fantastic, the characters are funny and diverse, and the magic system is very creative.
If you are looking for a fantasy novel following an ordinary person being pushed into an impossible situation and coming out the other side an extraordinary person, then I can highly recommend you read about how Niamh and his friends uncover the secrets of Carpathian Keep.
The world-building is fantastic, the characters are funny and diverse, and the magic system is very creative.
If you are looking for a fantasy novel following an ordinary person being pushed into an impossible situation and coming out the other side an extraordinary person, then I can highly recommend you read about how Niamh and his friends uncover the secrets of Carpathian Keep.
September 7, 2023
My favourite part was the character voice - it was so fun and realistic, being in the character's head. Alongside that, it was not what I was expecting as far as Victorian fantasy - it's filled with magic (woven tastefully through, making the world come to life) and various subplots that provide a richness to the world and characters. I'm generally a slow reader and I got through this so much faster than expected. What a fun read! Bring on Book 2!
August 10, 2025
Really enjoyed the magic system as well as the in world dynamics between different kinds of magic users. Niamh spoke to my inner teen experience and absolutely adored Caligula and Matthias. Though reader be aware that there is some triggering content for any sensitive to discussions and depictions of SA, grooming, or general abuse. There were some parts I did have to step away from the book. Other than that a good plot with well rounded characters and a sweet HEA
February 21, 2023
Gio has created such a cool world with fascinating characters and a really engaging story. I had a great time following Niamh and everyone else - such a wonderfully eclectic mix of people which made it super fun and refreshing.
A great one for fans of fantasy who want something a little different.
A great one for fans of fantasy who want something a little different.
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