What do you think?
Rate this book
Vincula Realm #1
Le Roi Umbra
The morally grey don’t want redemption. They want retribution.
After the brutal murder of her twin sister, Aurora “Rory” Raven spends years forging herself into a ruthless vigilante killer.
She never gave up her search for the man who killed her sister, but when she is convicted of thirteen murders and sentenced to five-hundred years in Vincula, the prison realm, she knows her sister’s death will never be avenged.
After arriving in Vincula, Aurora discovers her opportunity for retribution is closer than she thought.
Caius is the notorious Umbra King, ruler of Vincula, King of the Monsters, and the thing nightmares are made of. After being locked in his own realm for a crime he didn’t commit, his only focus has been revenge.
But when Aurora drops into his throne room, representing everything he despises, they begin a game of cat and mouse, and before long, their hatred turns into something else.
Circumstances draw them together, but revenge might tear them apart.
The Umbra King is book 1 in the Vincula Realm Duology and ends on a cliffhanger.
Not suitable for those under 18. Please check the author's website for content warnings.
After the brutal murder of her twin sister, Aurora “Rory” Raven spends years forging herself into a ruthless vigilante killer.
She never gave up her search for the man who killed her sister, but when she is convicted of thirteen murders and sentenced to five-hundred years in Vincula, the prison realm, she knows her sister’s death will never be avenged.
After arriving in Vincula, Aurora discovers her opportunity for retribution is closer than she thought.
Caius is the notorious Umbra King, ruler of Vincula, King of the Monsters, and the thing nightmares are made of. After being locked in his own realm for a crime he didn’t commit, his only focus has been revenge.
But when Aurora drops into his throne room, representing everything he despises, they begin a game of cat and mouse, and before long, their hatred turns into something else.
Circumstances draw them together, but revenge might tear them apart.
The Umbra King is book 1 in the Vincula Realm Duology and ends on a cliffhanger.
Not suitable for those under 18. Please check the author's website for content warnings.
432 pages
First published January 1, 2022
3482 people are currently reading
46250 people want to read
About the author
Jamie Applegate Hunter
24 books1,840 followersI love writing unhinged fantasy romance, but I hate writing bios.
Any books posted on my goodreads shelves are books I loved! I judge a book by the vibes and emotions I felt when I finished.
Any books posted on my goodreads shelves are books I loved! I judge a book by the vibes and emotions I felt when I finished.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,047 reviews
August 21, 2023
4.5 Diamond Nipple Stars⭐
Spicy Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
I basically inhaled this book at the fastest speed my brain could comprehend the words my eyes were seeing. I practically read this in one sitting (probably would have definitely if I didn't start the book at midnight last night), which is quite an achievement for me at the moment since I have been going through quite a little bit of a slump and slowly getting out of it.
This was the first book since my slump started that I felt completely enraptured, enamoured and thrilled by what I was reading, that I just kept devouring it and wanting to read.
This is a third-person paranormal fantasy with a main focus on Aurora (Rory), who is a fae and also happens to be a little bit of a vigilante murderer. She is caught and instead of being sent to hell, she is sentenced to Vincula the prison realm for committing 13 brutal murders. When she gets to this realm, she's literally plonked at the feet of King, Caius and from very early on is barraged by the consequences of her perceived actions as a Butcher by many of the inmates.
I really liked Rory. It's not every day you see a book with a sassy strong female FMC who is a beautiful shade of morally grey. I like that she was not a perfect little angel. She had killed people by her own moral code and this made her a great complex character, especially given how she developed and progressed through the story. She's gone through some trauma and has made some bad decisions and has to deal with the repercussions of her trauma. I also like the fact that she still managed to find a family, grow into herself, and stand up for herself. Maybe not all the time, but she wanted to do it for her, so she wouldn't feel weak
Caius was broody, grumpy, powerful, and I'm just weak at my knees because he's a FUCKING SHADOW DADDY and he uses those shadows so spectacularly well. I would not have complained if there was a little bit more usage of those shadows. But I mean...who knew shadows could vibrate and be that enticing??????
The side characters in this were also fantastic and the found family element leaves a smile on your face. All the characters that are close to Rory (irrespective of the realm) feel like they really cared about her. It was awesome to see how much care, compassion and thought were taken into formulating these relationships and these friendships. I just wanna HUG SAM!!!!!
The thing that really stood out for me is that in the beginning, you were given a guide on the realms, races and magic. I loved this as this is normally included at the end and by that part it's ALWAYS TOO LATE. I was a little bit scared going into this after reading the guide but throughout the story, Jamie Applegate Hunter did such a good job of explaining the world-building. It felt rich, and unique that I had never actually seen something like this (this might be because I don't read A LOT of PNR but I still found it fantastic). It was very structurally formulated and convoluted, but pretty simple to understand and grasp.
The one thing that kept this book from being utterly spectacular is that even though the characters were slightly older, there were aspects of this that felt very juvenile. Our main character goes through a period of being a little bit (read a lot) jealous and almost has a temper tantrum because she thinks he hooks up with somebody. That just feels like a little bit of high school drama! BUT I do appreciate that they do seem to talk out their differences.
Basically, I had a great time! It was a FANTASTIC book that I would recommend.
The Trope In This:
▶ Enemies to Lovers
▶ SUPER SEXY SHADOW DADDY
▶ Who did this to you
▶ One Bed
▶ Bath and Shower Scenes
▶ Fated Mates
▶ Found Family
▶ Paranormal Characters (Fae, Angels, Shifters etc)
▶ Morally Grey FMC and MMC
Spicy Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
I basically inhaled this book at the fastest speed my brain could comprehend the words my eyes were seeing. I practically read this in one sitting (probably would have definitely if I didn't start the book at midnight last night), which is quite an achievement for me at the moment since I have been going through quite a little bit of a slump and slowly getting out of it.
This was the first book since my slump started that I felt completely enraptured, enamoured and thrilled by what I was reading, that I just kept devouring it and wanting to read.
This is a third-person paranormal fantasy with a main focus on Aurora (Rory), who is a fae and also happens to be a little bit of a vigilante murderer. She is caught and instead of being sent to hell, she is sentenced to Vincula the prison realm for committing 13 brutal murders. When she gets to this realm, she's literally plonked at the feet of King, Caius and from very early on is barraged by the consequences of her perceived actions as a Butcher by many of the inmates.
I really liked Rory. It's not every day you see a book with a sassy strong female FMC who is a beautiful shade of morally grey. I like that she was not a perfect little angel. She had killed people by her own moral code and this made her a great complex character, especially given how she developed and progressed through the story. She's gone through some trauma and has made some bad decisions and has to deal with the repercussions of her trauma. I also like the fact that she still managed to find a family, grow into herself, and stand up for herself. Maybe not all the time, but she wanted to do it for her, so she wouldn't feel weak
Caius was broody, grumpy, powerful, and I'm just weak at my knees because he's a FUCKING SHADOW DADDY and he uses those shadows so spectacularly well. I would not have complained if there was a little bit more usage of those shadows. But I mean...who knew shadows could vibrate and be that enticing??????
The side characters in this were also fantastic and the found family element leaves a smile on your face. All the characters that are close to Rory (irrespective of the realm) feel like they really cared about her. It was awesome to see how much care, compassion and thought were taken into formulating these relationships and these friendships. I just wanna HUG SAM!!!!!
The thing that really stood out for me is that in the beginning, you were given a guide on the realms, races and magic. I loved this as this is normally included at the end and by that part it's ALWAYS TOO LATE. I was a little bit scared going into this after reading the guide but throughout the story, Jamie Applegate Hunter did such a good job of explaining the world-building. It felt rich, and unique that I had never actually seen something like this (this might be because I don't read A LOT of PNR but I still found it fantastic). It was very structurally formulated and convoluted, but pretty simple to understand and grasp.
The one thing that kept this book from being utterly spectacular is that even though the characters were slightly older, there were aspects of this that felt very juvenile. Our main character goes through a period of being a little bit (read a lot) jealous and almost has a temper tantrum because she thinks he hooks up with somebody. That just feels like a little bit of high school drama! BUT I do appreciate that they do seem to talk out their differences.
Basically, I had a great time! It was a FANTASTIC book that I would recommend.
The Trope In This:
▶ Enemies to Lovers
▶ SUPER SEXY SHADOW DADDY
▶ Who did this to you
▶ One Bed
▶ Bath and Shower Scenes
▶ Fated Mates
▶ Found Family
▶ Paranormal Characters (Fae, Angels, Shifters etc)
▶ Morally Grey FMC and MMC
April 25, 2023
"I would set this entire realm ablaze to keep you safe, and if you think I'm bluffing you haven't
been paying attention."
WHY did I sleep on this book for sooo long?!! This book was such a mood! I can tell you what this book is and what isn't. It isn't the most cleverly crafted fantasy romance, and it isn't the most well plotted book, but honestly, I could not care less bc what it is, is ENTERTAINING AF and I had the best time reading it!!
"You will address me as Your Grace, or I will carve your tongue from that pretty mouth of yours."
Rory a vigilante serial killer who hunts down the wicked and exacts her own form of justice finds her luck has run out and has been caught and convicted of her crimes and is now facing 500 years in the prison realm of Vincula ruled by Caius, The Umbra King and a powerful monster in his own right. Their hatred for each other runs deep due to their preconceived notions of each other but there is also something else drawing them together that neither one of them are strong enough to ignore. Exterior conspiracies and sinister plots threaten to keep them at odds but can they overcome it all and learn to trust each other?
"I was looking for you." she said sweetly. His expression didn't change. "Most women are."
"Do they want to cut out your heart out too?"
Rory- Rory is such a badass murdery FMC. I loved her so much, she has zero chill when it comes to bad guys and does what she feels has to be done. (She's also completely unhinged, but in a really " her heart is in the right place" kind of way) I love her loyalty to her friends and the way she goes toe to toe with Caius is thrilling!
"The next time someone lays a finger on you, their death belongs to me."
Caius-This man has found himself at the top of the book boyfriend rankings! He is just dirrrtttyyyy hot!! Seriously the mouth on him is ridiculously filthy and I'm not mad at it even a little bit. AND THE SHADOWS!!! 🫠🫠🫠
But as if you needed any other reasons to love him, he is also loyal, caring, protective of his realm and his people. The way his relationship with Rory develops and how he comes to care for her and becomes devoted to her is so sweet and romantic and I was immediately owned by them.
"My name, say it again. It will be good practice for when you scream it later."
"Never lock me out again. I will always make your tears my own. We're in this together."
"When you realize you love me. I will drop to one knee wherever we are."
This book also had so many fun side characters, but the highlight was definitely the angel Samyaza aka Sam and Caius's best friend. He is lethal and imposing but somehow also so endearing and lovable. I can't wait to see more of him in the next book.
BIG shout out and thank you to my BESTIE Deema for buddy reading this book with me! We had always have such a good time playing detective and talking about all the tea! Can't wait to start the next book with you babes!
been paying attention."
WHY did I sleep on this book for sooo long?!! This book was such a mood! I can tell you what this book is and what isn't. It isn't the most cleverly crafted fantasy romance, and it isn't the most well plotted book, but honestly, I could not care less bc what it is, is ENTERTAINING AF and I had the best time reading it!!
"You will address me as Your Grace, or I will carve your tongue from that pretty mouth of yours."
Rory a vigilante serial killer who hunts down the wicked and exacts her own form of justice finds her luck has run out and has been caught and convicted of her crimes and is now facing 500 years in the prison realm of Vincula ruled by Caius, The Umbra King and a powerful monster in his own right. Their hatred for each other runs deep due to their preconceived notions of each other but there is also something else drawing them together that neither one of them are strong enough to ignore. Exterior conspiracies and sinister plots threaten to keep them at odds but can they overcome it all and learn to trust each other?
"I was looking for you." she said sweetly. His expression didn't change. "Most women are."
"Do they want to cut out your heart out too?"
Rory- Rory is such a badass murdery FMC. I loved her so much, she has zero chill when it comes to bad guys and does what she feels has to be done. (She's also completely unhinged, but in a really " her heart is in the right place" kind of way) I love her loyalty to her friends and the way she goes toe to toe with Caius is thrilling!
"The next time someone lays a finger on you, their death belongs to me."
Caius-This man has found himself at the top of the book boyfriend rankings! He is just dirrrtttyyyy hot!! Seriously the mouth on him is ridiculously filthy and I'm not mad at it even a little bit. AND THE SHADOWS!!! 🫠🫠🫠
But as if you needed any other reasons to love him, he is also loyal, caring, protective of his realm and his people. The way his relationship with Rory develops and how he comes to care for her and becomes devoted to her is so sweet and romantic and I was immediately owned by them.
"My name, say it again. It will be good practice for when you scream it later."
"Never lock me out again. I will always make your tears my own. We're in this together."
"When you realize you love me. I will drop to one knee wherever we are."
This book also had so many fun side characters, but the highlight was definitely the angel Samyaza aka Sam and Caius's best friend. He is lethal and imposing but somehow also so endearing and lovable. I can't wait to see more of him in the next book.
BIG shout out and thank you to my BESTIE Deema for buddy reading this book with me! We had always have such a good time playing detective and talking about all the tea! Can't wait to start the next book with you babes!
September 17, 2024
3 ★'s
This didn’t impress me but it did keep me entertained.
✧ “She was beautiful, wild, and his.” ✧
The star of the show in this book is definitely Caius, Umbra King, Shadow Daddy.
His only flaw is that he happens to be blond, but he made me overlook that and that should tell you everything you need to know... Everything out of this man's mouth is downright filthy and I ate it up.
He is definitely in the realm of morally grey, but his heart is in the right place. I know some of you will devour this man.🙂↕️
✦ ”Who did this to you?”
“It doesn’t matter”
“It is the only thing that matters. Tell me who did this to you, or I will raze the entire fucking town to the ground” ✦
Unfortunately, there wasn't much else that was super exciting about this book...🫣
The writing was fine, a bit too much telling and not enough showing for my taste but didn't hinder me from enjoying the story. It's mainly written in dual pov, with the additional of 1-2 extra perspectives when it made sense - which I really enjoyed as it made the flow of the story very seamless.
The plot was very easy to get into - maybe too easy at times, as I was able to predict most of it, but it suited the mood I was in so I cannot complain.
The world building was also very basic. It's nothing complex or too creative. Very reminiscent of things I've seen in other popular series, but possibly not quite as good?
The characters and relationships are also just fine. I did like Sam and Lauren's budding relationships with Rory, but wished we would've seen more of it. Based on what I'm seeing in book two, we might yet see some development there however.🤞
✧ “Why do you assume this is your dream and not mine?”
“Why would it be yours?”
“Because here, you are mine.” ✧
Coming from a bit of a fantasy slump this was a good duology to ease my way back into it. (Lets just hope part two delivers) It was a quick, easy read. Short chapters, nothing too complex. Mostly just a good time, no braincells needed.
Just don’t expect a super immersive high fantasy from this, because you won't get it.
It’s definitely more so a lighter fantasy with some darker (and filthy) elements.
If you go in with the right expectations I think you might be able to have a good time.🫶
____________
⌞Pre-read:⌝
praying, begging, hoping that I have better luck with this one.😭 Otherwise, I might give up on fantasy and just live in my romance delulu-land (I won't, but I might be sad)
This didn’t impress me but it did keep me entertained.
✧ “She was beautiful, wild, and his.” ✧
The star of the show in this book is definitely Caius, Umbra King, Shadow Daddy.
His only flaw is that he happens to be blond, but he made me overlook that and that should tell you everything you need to know... Everything out of this man's mouth is downright filthy and I ate it up.
He is definitely in the realm of morally grey, but his heart is in the right place. I know some of you will devour this man.🙂↕️
✦ ”Who did this to you?”
“It doesn’t matter”
“It is the only thing that matters. Tell me who did this to you, or I will raze the entire fucking town to the ground” ✦
Unfortunately, there wasn't much else that was super exciting about this book...🫣
The writing was fine, a bit too much telling and not enough showing for my taste but didn't hinder me from enjoying the story. It's mainly written in dual pov, with the additional of 1-2 extra perspectives when it made sense - which I really enjoyed as it made the flow of the story very seamless.
The plot was very easy to get into - maybe too easy at times, as I was able to predict most of it, but it suited the mood I was in so I cannot complain.
The world building was also very basic. It's nothing complex or too creative. Very reminiscent of things I've seen in other popular series, but possibly not quite as good?
The characters and relationships are also just fine. I did like Sam and Lauren's budding relationships with Rory, but wished we would've seen more of it. Based on what I'm seeing in book two, we might yet see some development there however.🤞
✧ “Why do you assume this is your dream and not mine?”
“Why would it be yours?”
“Because here, you are mine.” ✧
Coming from a bit of a fantasy slump this was a good duology to ease my way back into it. (Lets just hope part two delivers) It was a quick, easy read. Short chapters, nothing too complex. Mostly just a good time, no braincells needed.
Just don’t expect a super immersive high fantasy from this, because you won't get it.
It’s definitely more so a lighter fantasy with some darker (and filthy) elements.
If you go in with the right expectations I think you might be able to have a good time.🫶
____________
⌞Pre-read:⌝
praying, begging, hoping that I have better luck with this one.😭 Otherwise, I might give up on fantasy and just live in my romance delulu-land (I won't, but I might be sad)
December 29, 2022
DNF at 74%
This book had so much potential to be stellar, only to worsen as the story progressed. Multiple-POVs, enemies-to-lovers, and a badass MC. What's not to love? The multiple POVs covered minimally developed characters, however. The enemies turned to lovers (or at least lust-ers) far too quickly, and the badass MC seemed to have everything happening TO her but caused no change through her actions.
The worldbuilding of this novel was interesting at times—with the different races and their connecting attributes—but much of it felt like a cheap amalgamation of fantasy and reality. Potato sticks = french fries. Essenet = internet. Netsite = website. It's a pet peeve of mine to see modern-day technologies and devices used in a story with a "fantasy" name slapped on to make it seem developed. If this was going to be contemporary fantasy, it should've just been a contemporary fantasy. Maybe that's a niche issue only I dislike. It felt similar to when YA books come up with fake curse words to get around profanity usage (like reading Deep Blue, where badasses are bad-wrasses, a girlfriend is a merlfriend, and money is currensea). I cannot STAND that, minimal as it is.
My major issue, and what caused me to DNF the book, was our main character Rory. First of all, her name is Aurora Raven. Do with that what you will (again with the YA feeling). Secondly, she was built up (and admittedly started) as a badass vigilante character hellbent on justice for her murdered sister. While she began the story along those lines, I became less and less convinced of her competency and intelligence as the book progressed. Also, if I have to read one more enemies-to-lovers book where the MC has an uncontrollable physical attraction to (what is to her) a literal murderer, I'll scream. STAND UPPPP! Am I not horny enough to understand the appeal of that concept?!
Anyway, if I talk or think about this book any longer, I think I'll start losing brain cells. If you loved it, I'm genuinely happy for you and the author! If you hated it, welcome to the club.
This book had so much potential to be stellar, only to worsen as the story progressed. Multiple-POVs, enemies-to-lovers, and a badass MC. What's not to love? The multiple POVs covered minimally developed characters, however. The enemies turned to lovers (or at least lust-ers) far too quickly, and the badass MC seemed to have everything happening TO her but caused no change through her actions.
The worldbuilding of this novel was interesting at times—with the different races and their connecting attributes—but much of it felt like a cheap amalgamation of fantasy and reality. Potato sticks = french fries. Essenet = internet. Netsite = website. It's a pet peeve of mine to see modern-day technologies and devices used in a story with a "fantasy" name slapped on to make it seem developed. If this was going to be contemporary fantasy, it should've just been a contemporary fantasy. Maybe that's a niche issue only I dislike. It felt similar to when YA books come up with fake curse words to get around profanity usage (like reading Deep Blue, where badasses are bad-wrasses, a girlfriend is a merlfriend, and money is currensea). I cannot STAND that, minimal as it is.
My major issue, and what caused me to DNF the book, was our main character Rory. First of all, her name is Aurora Raven. Do with that what you will (again with the YA feeling). Secondly, she was built up (and admittedly started) as a badass vigilante character hellbent on justice for her murdered sister. While she began the story along those lines, I became less and less convinced of her competency and intelligence as the book progressed. Also, if I have to read one more enemies-to-lovers book where the MC has an uncontrollable physical attraction to (what is to her) a literal murderer, I'll scream. STAND UPPPP! Am I not horny enough to understand the appeal of that concept?!
Anyway, if I talk or think about this book any longer, I think I'll start losing brain cells. If you loved it, I'm genuinely happy for you and the author! If you hated it, welcome to the club.
March 9, 2023
4.5✨
I’m unwell. The ending of this book hurt me.
”I would set this entire realm ablaze to keep you safe, and if you think I’m bluffing, you haven’t been paying attention.”
The Umbra King follows assassin vigilante, Rory, after she is apprehended for killing 13 men. After watching her sister brutally murdered and soul stolen, she vows to avenge her and find her soul. Things obviously go sideways and she ends up thrown into the prison realm of Vincula and at the feet of the Umbra King, Caius. While a little slow to start, I ended up loving this.
This book is so unlike things I’ve read in the past! While there are some of my favorite tropes like enemies to lovers and hate to love, and my favorite mythological creatures (shifters, fae, angels, etc) the world building and magic system were so unique. The friendships in the book are also so so amazing.
Now onto the romance. Firstly, I love Rory so much. She’s a strong morally gray ASSASSIN who finds love in the prison realm with the Umbra King. Caius is moody, grumpy, powerful and has shadow magic. I love shadow magic (cough, hands). This book is so steamy and loved the two of them together.
”I have been on my knees from the moment you landed in my throne room.”
Read if you like strong morally gray women, men who simp for them, found family, forced proximity, and a hot enemies to lovers arc.
Thank you so much to Jamie, the author, for this arc!! It’s such a wild ride. AND THE CLIFFHANGER. I’m dying.
I’m unwell. The ending of this book hurt me.
”I would set this entire realm ablaze to keep you safe, and if you think I’m bluffing, you haven’t been paying attention.”
The Umbra King follows assassin vigilante, Rory, after she is apprehended for killing 13 men. After watching her sister brutally murdered and soul stolen, she vows to avenge her and find her soul. Things obviously go sideways and she ends up thrown into the prison realm of Vincula and at the feet of the Umbra King, Caius. While a little slow to start, I ended up loving this.
This book is so unlike things I’ve read in the past! While there are some of my favorite tropes like enemies to lovers and hate to love, and my favorite mythological creatures (shifters, fae, angels, etc) the world building and magic system were so unique. The friendships in the book are also so so amazing.
Now onto the romance. Firstly, I love Rory so much. She’s a strong morally gray ASSASSIN who finds love in the prison realm with the Umbra King. Caius is moody, grumpy, powerful and has shadow magic. I love shadow magic (cough, hands). This book is so steamy and loved the two of them together.
”I have been on my knees from the moment you landed in my throne room.”
Read if you like strong morally gray women, men who simp for them, found family, forced proximity, and a hot enemies to lovers arc.
Thank you so much to Jamie, the author, for this arc!! It’s such a wild ride. AND THE CLIFFHANGER. I’m dying.
February 1, 2023
DNF at 80%.
I had a feeling I wasn't gonna like this just based off of the vibes of the cover/title/blurb but everyone in the reviews was giving it 5 stars so I decided to give it a shot and it was just not for me.
The MC is supposed to be this morally grey badass, which is the main reason reason I picked up this book in the first place, but instead we're stuck with a pretty average woman swooning over a complete asshole that is essentially her prison guard.... wtf?
The entire relationship only really occurs because they're 'fated mates'. I mean they literally have nothing in common whatsoever. Their relationship is also possibly one of the worst cases of instalove that I've ever seen. Not much of anything happens in this book, it's just the MC complaining that she hates the love interest, being conflicted about it, and then pursuing him anyways.
Where was the morally grey serial killer behavior that we were promised? Where is the plot? Bottom line, this just didn't work for me.
I had a feeling I wasn't gonna like this just based off of the vibes of the cover/title/blurb but everyone in the reviews was giving it 5 stars so I decided to give it a shot and it was just not for me.
The MC is supposed to be this morally grey badass, which is the main reason reason I picked up this book in the first place, but instead we're stuck with a pretty average woman swooning over a complete asshole that is essentially her prison guard.... wtf?
The entire relationship only really occurs because they're 'fated mates'. I mean they literally have nothing in common whatsoever. Their relationship is also possibly one of the worst cases of instalove that I've ever seen. Not much of anything happens in this book, it's just the MC complaining that she hates the love interest, being conflicted about it, and then pursuing him anyways.
Where was the morally grey serial killer behavior that we were promised? Where is the plot? Bottom line, this just didn't work for me.
January 3, 2023
★★★★☆ - 🌶️🌶️🌶️
A solid 3.5 star book. The romance was pretty good and kept me invested in the story, and that smut was top tier, but the fantasy element could have used a lot of work. The closet comparison I could make is a YA, dumbed down version of the society Crescent City, mixed in with some predictable actions and narratives throughout the story. I am not sure if I will end up reading book 2, but I’m not opposed to it 🤷🏻♀️
A solid 3.5 star book. The romance was pretty good and kept me invested in the story, and that smut was top tier, but the fantasy element could have used a lot of work. The closet comparison I could make is a YA, dumbed down version of the society Crescent City, mixed in with some predictable actions and narratives throughout the story. I am not sure if I will end up reading book 2, but I’m not opposed to it 🤷🏻♀️
September 22, 2022
Plot ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Dual 3rd person POV - but mainly our FMC, Aurora (Rory)
Oh my god, when I say this was fantastic - this was FANTASTIC. This is an urban fantasy, forced proximity, enemies to lovers, mistaken identity, female serial killer who's an all around badass and hellbent on revenge story told with fascinating world building complete with thorough history, multiple species with unique abilities and characteristics, well developed side characters that make you care about their story, a logical plot, and a dash of "Who did this to you?" In the very beginning there's a link to an audible pronunciation guide along with the text pronunciation guide for names and places, a printable world map, brief rundown of each realm, and a list of the different species with their attributes and characteristics. The detail that went into this is astounding!
Not only that, but our FMC is 25!!! She has been training for 10 years to find the man who killed her sister and exact her revenge. Along the way, she's been stopping other potential victims from meeting the same fate by tracking down and killing those with the blackest of souls. She's so brutal with her kills and consistent with her MO that she's branded The Butcher, as she strings them up on meat hooks. When she's unexpectedly caught, she's sentenced to 500 years in the Vincula realm, where our MMC, Caius, reigns as the Umbra King. Since no one remembers their time in the Vincula, Rory only has myths and speculations to go off of what her time there will be like and how the realm is ruled.
The enemies to lovers is done so well the transition feels authentic and entirely unavoidable as they surrender to their mutual attraction.
“You will address me as ‘Your Grace,’ or I will carve your tongue from that pretty mouth of yours.”
“Congratulations. You have been given the longest sentence of any mystic in the history of the realms.”
“I suppose she thought five-hundred years with you was worse than hell.”
Once Rory and Caius admit their feelings, the 🔥 heat 🔥 kicks up a few notches. While they still enjoy their banter (both in and out of the bedroom, my god the mouth on Caius is filthy), they also have (for the most part) very healthy communication. There's one moment where Rory is led to believe something false about Caius (you'll know what I mean when you read it) but it is quickly resolved and doesn't lead to a distressful chapter-spanning breakup. There's even the much coveted "Who did this to you" trope and Caius went off the RAILS 🥵 These two fall, and they fall hard.
Dume, Sam, Lauren, and Bellina may be side characters but they bring a depth to this world that completely levels the story up. The amount of novellas I would devour about some of these people should be shocking but it's not. That cliffhanger wasn't the worst, but oh my god do I need book 2 NOW!! If you haven't read this, read it now. You won't regret it!
“I would set this entire realm ablaze to keep you safe, and if you think I’m bluffing, you haven’t been paying attention.”
"We’ll always have the soulscape."
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Dual 3rd person POV - but mainly our FMC, Aurora (Rory)
Oh my god, when I say this was fantastic - this was FANTASTIC. This is an urban fantasy, forced proximity, enemies to lovers, mistaken identity, female serial killer who's an all around badass and hellbent on revenge story told with fascinating world building complete with thorough history, multiple species with unique abilities and characteristics, well developed side characters that make you care about their story, a logical plot, and a dash of "Who did this to you?" In the very beginning there's a link to an audible pronunciation guide along with the text pronunciation guide for names and places, a printable world map, brief rundown of each realm, and a list of the different species with their attributes and characteristics. The detail that went into this is astounding!
Not only that, but our FMC is 25!!! She has been training for 10 years to find the man who killed her sister and exact her revenge. Along the way, she's been stopping other potential victims from meeting the same fate by tracking down and killing those with the blackest of souls. She's so brutal with her kills and consistent with her MO that she's branded The Butcher, as she strings them up on meat hooks. When she's unexpectedly caught, she's sentenced to 500 years in the Vincula realm, where our MMC, Caius, reigns as the Umbra King. Since no one remembers their time in the Vincula, Rory only has myths and speculations to go off of what her time there will be like and how the realm is ruled.
The enemies to lovers is done so well the transition feels authentic and entirely unavoidable as they surrender to their mutual attraction.
“You will address me as ‘Your Grace,’ or I will carve your tongue from that pretty mouth of yours.”
“Congratulations. You have been given the longest sentence of any mystic in the history of the realms.”
“I suppose she thought five-hundred years with you was worse than hell.”
Once Rory and Caius admit their feelings, the 🔥 heat 🔥 kicks up a few notches. While they still enjoy their banter (both in and out of the bedroom, my god the mouth on Caius is filthy), they also have (for the most part) very healthy communication. There's one moment where Rory is led to believe something false about Caius (you'll know what I mean when you read it) but it is quickly resolved and doesn't lead to a distressful chapter-spanning breakup. There's even the much coveted "Who did this to you" trope and Caius went off the RAILS 🥵 These two fall, and they fall hard.
Dume, Sam, Lauren, and Bellina may be side characters but they bring a depth to this world that completely levels the story up. The amount of novellas I would devour about some of these people should be shocking but it's not. That cliffhanger wasn't the worst, but oh my god do I need book 2 NOW!! If you haven't read this, read it now. You won't regret it!
“I would set this entire realm ablaze to keep you safe, and if you think I’m bluffing, you haven’t been paying attention.”
"We’ll always have the soulscape."
June 4, 2024
4.5 ⭐️ WHAT JUST HAPPENED I AM BROKENNNN THAT ENDING?!!!
Why aren’t more people talking about this book?! Oh my goodness PHENOMENAL and deserves so much more hype wow wow wow! The perfect dark urban fantasy I didn’t know I needed!
✔️morally grey FMC who would tear the world down for the people she loved
✔️SHADOW DADDY MMC with a filthy mouth and touch her and die energy
✔️ unique magic system and world
✔️ found family
✔️ incredible side characters
✔️ multi POV
✔️ enemies to lovers
✔️ fated mates
✔️ spicy spice
Obsessed is an understatement. The only reason why this isn’t 5 stars is that the ending felt a bit rushed and I feel like it could have used a little more world building!
Why aren’t more people talking about this book?! Oh my goodness PHENOMENAL and deserves so much more hype wow wow wow! The perfect dark urban fantasy I didn’t know I needed!
✔️morally grey FMC who would tear the world down for the people she loved
✔️SHADOW DADDY MMC with a filthy mouth and touch her and die energy
✔️ unique magic system and world
✔️ found family
✔️ incredible side characters
✔️ multi POV
✔️ enemies to lovers
✔️ fated mates
✔️ spicy spice
Obsessed is an understatement. The only reason why this isn’t 5 stars is that the ending felt a bit rushed and I feel like it could have used a little more world building!
January 3, 2023
I really wanted to like this book, mainly because many reviews were raving about it. Unfortunately, this book fell short in so many ways. The building of their relationship and the angst hooked me, but after they got together, every conflict or dialogue had me roll my eyes. The world-building was cool... ish. I think the concept was cool but kinda cheesy, if that’s ok to say? I can do with the destined to be together trope, but when it’s done right. The magic of the world I love, the different types, the power among them was gripping. But I think I’ve just read so many books with a similar concept that have done this but way better. Overall, this was very Wattpad, and --at the expense of this book’s rating-- I am very much past that stage of my life. It's not a terrible read; don't get me wrong, it just was not the type of writing and dialogue that tended to grab me.
June 3, 2023
i read this for a book club and i have so many regrets
the writing was juvenile, the plot was threadbare, the world building was so lazy and contradictory that i was getting actively upset, and then to top it off the author had the audacity to italicize every "fantasy" word as if we wouldn't be able to keep track otherwise. the only good thing about her sex scenes was that they went on forever and i could easily skip 5-10 pages without missing anything of substance.
i don't know who is out there giving this thing 5 stars but i have some serious concerns
the writing was juvenile, the plot was threadbare, the world building was so lazy and contradictory that i was getting actively upset, and then to top it off the author had the audacity to italicize every "fantasy" word as if we wouldn't be able to keep track otherwise. the only good thing about her sex scenes was that they went on forever and i could easily skip 5-10 pages without missing anything of substance.
i don't know who is out there giving this thing 5 stars but i have some serious concerns
May 11, 2025
6 stars 👏🏾😍.
This book was soooooo good 👏🏾😍 and the fact that the MMC is a shadow daddy was the cherry on top 🤭♥️
The story was so easy to follow and captivating I literally didn't want to sleep at night. 🤣
The push and pull and the tension between Rory and Caius 🤭 MIND BREAKING
There is also a MAZE SCENE IN HERE 🤭 and ummm 🤭
This book was soooooo good 👏🏾😍 and the fact that the MMC is a shadow daddy was the cherry on top 🤭♥️
The story was so easy to follow and captivating I literally didn't want to sleep at night. 🤣
The push and pull and the tension between Rory and Caius 🤭 MIND BREAKING
There is also a MAZE SCENE IN HERE 🤭 and ummm 🤭
November 16, 2022
I think my expectations were too high. Either way, I am so disappointed...
⤏ What to expect:
∘ Adult Fantasy Romance
∘ Murder/Mystery
∘ Imaginative worldbuilding & different interesting creatures
∘ Dark king who controls shadows
∘ Action place - Prison
∘ Strong female MC - serial killer
∘ Morally Grey Characters
∘ Multiple POV
⤏ Tropes:
∘ Enemies to Lovers
∘ Slowburn
∘ Insta-Lust
∘ Found Family
∘ "Who hurt you?"
⤏ Trigger Warnings: graphic violence & description of crime scenes, mention of sexual assault, attempted rape, child abuse
— RTC.
(I'm not sure I'll continue this series)
⤏ What to expect:
∘ Adult Fantasy Romance
∘ Murder/Mystery
∘ Imaginative worldbuilding & different interesting creatures
∘ Dark king who controls shadows
∘ Action place - Prison
∘ Strong female MC - serial killer
∘ Morally Grey Characters
∘ Multiple POV
⤏ Tropes:
∘ Enemies to Lovers
∘ Slowburn
∘ Insta-Lust
∘ Found Family
∘ "Who hurt you?"
⤏ Trigger Warnings: graphic violence & description of crime scenes, mention of sexual assault, attempted rape, child abuse
— RTC.
(I'm not sure I'll continue this series)
January 23, 2023
I want authors to focus on character development more than spice but booktok wont blow a book up unless it’s more smut than plot so everyone else has to suffer through these atrocities.
Aurora (honestly so tired of reading books with a fmc with this name) is meant to be this morally grey, dark, vengeful serial killer but the author just couldn’t write it well. Call me crazy but if I finally saw the face of a man who killed my sister which ultimately lead to my murderous rampage I wouldn’t be talking about how attractive he was. I would actively be trying to hurt him which is what I expected considering this was marketed as an enemies to lovers. Instead we got a failed seduction attempt, instant attraction and the worst attempt at tension building. Rory was very juvenile and that strong female lead was just not there.
Caius is the King serving a 500 year sentence for allegedly murdering his sister. On Aurora’s arrival he despises her for the vile things she’s done. He humiliates her time and time again before realising she is his eternal mate. That whole bullying people you’re attracted to is so tired. He doesn’t really have a personality either. For like a 500+ year old who reigns over a prison you’d think he would have seen vile things so why is he so shaken up by Rory? Why does he have morals when he can command shadows? Ew. I will say though him taking her sentence so she can she her mom had me kicking my feet a little.
The plot was there, in bits and pieces but the majority of the book was overwhelmingly boring. The entire subplot with Nina took up way too much of this book and if the author removed it we wouldn’t have needed a second book. Nobody wants to read about an past jealous lover trying to kill the fmc. Why are women always being painted as sore losers? It took so long for the actual plot to kick in and I ended up skimming through a lot of it. Their realms aren’t very interesting and what is the obsession with memory loss? Why’d Royals lose their memory after their reign? That’s so dumb? This book could have been great but suffered from incredibly poor writing & execution.
Overall, this book isn’t worth the read. It ends on a cliffhanger but these type of books are so predictable that reading the second book doesn’t make sense.
Aurora (honestly so tired of reading books with a fmc with this name) is meant to be this morally grey, dark, vengeful serial killer but the author just couldn’t write it well. Call me crazy but if I finally saw the face of a man who killed my sister which ultimately lead to my murderous rampage I wouldn’t be talking about how attractive he was. I would actively be trying to hurt him which is what I expected considering this was marketed as an enemies to lovers. Instead we got a failed seduction attempt, instant attraction and the worst attempt at tension building. Rory was very juvenile and that strong female lead was just not there.
Caius is the King serving a 500 year sentence for allegedly murdering his sister. On Aurora’s arrival he despises her for the vile things she’s done. He humiliates her time and time again before realising she is his eternal mate. That whole bullying people you’re attracted to is so tired. He doesn’t really have a personality either. For like a 500+ year old who reigns over a prison you’d think he would have seen vile things so why is he so shaken up by Rory? Why does he have morals when he can command shadows? Ew. I will say though him taking her sentence so she can she her mom had me kicking my feet a little.
The plot was there, in bits and pieces but the majority of the book was overwhelmingly boring. The entire subplot with Nina took up way too much of this book and if the author removed it we wouldn’t have needed a second book. Nobody wants to read about an past jealous lover trying to kill the fmc. Why are women always being painted as sore losers? It took so long for the actual plot to kick in and I ended up skimming through a lot of it. Their realms aren’t very interesting and what is the obsession with memory loss? Why’d Royals lose their memory after their reign? That’s so dumb? This book could have been great but suffered from incredibly poor writing & execution.
Overall, this book isn’t worth the read. It ends on a cliffhanger but these type of books are so predictable that reading the second book doesn’t make sense.
September 4, 2024
4.3/5⭐️
OH.MY.GOD, I CANNOT BREATHE. I was not expecting this book to be so spectacular, and wow. I’m seriously speechless. It’s been such a long time since I read a book in one sitting, and I love literally everything about it. Rory as a main character is obviously a badass, but I also loved her because she has a human soft and sensitive side that she is not ashamed to show in front of anyone, and that just makes her even stronger!! And Caius, oh my god, shadow daddy really is something else. Every time he opened his mouth I was just blushing because he really does have a way with words…and in bed. I would have liked for him to be more ‘darker’, but still I ATE him up (he’s not blonde in my mind tho). And their relationship is just MAGNIFICENT, they did not come to fucking play and I was barking and roaring with the amount of tension they have. Their ending PAINS ME so much, and I just want to cry and hope they get their hea.
Leaving those two aside, the side characters, found family, world building and magic system and beings were so hooking and got me from the start. Also the vibes in this book were as if ZA and Crescent City had a baby, and this was the baby. CHEF KISS!!😮💨😮💨
OH.MY.GOD, I CANNOT BREATHE. I was not expecting this book to be so spectacular, and wow. I’m seriously speechless. It’s been such a long time since I read a book in one sitting, and I love literally everything about it. Rory as a main character is obviously a badass, but I also loved her because she has a human soft and sensitive side that she is not ashamed to show in front of anyone, and that just makes her even stronger!! And Caius, oh my god, shadow daddy really is something else. Every time he opened his mouth I was just blushing because he really does have a way with words…and in bed. I would have liked for him to be more ‘darker’, but still I ATE him up (he’s not blonde in my mind tho). And their relationship is just MAGNIFICENT, they did not come to fucking play and I was barking and roaring with the amount of tension they have. Their ending PAINS ME so much, and I just want to cry and hope they get their hea.
Leaving those two aside, the side characters, found family, world building and magic system and beings were so hooking and got me from the start. Also the vibes in this book were as if ZA and Crescent City had a baby, and this was the baby. CHEF KISS!!😮💨😮💨
January 10, 2024
This is a fantasy read set in a imaginative world and that's the thing I liked the most about this. The world set-up here is fascinating. It follows Aurora whose designation is Fey after she witnesses the murder of her twin sister Cora she becomes fixated on bringing her sister's killer to justice. This tunnel vision leads her down a dark path of violence a road that will eventually see her sentenced to 500 years of service and rehabilitation in the prison realm of her world all under the control of The Umbra King Caius who as well as warden is also serving his own sentence for murder.
I mostly enjoyed this but at the same time, It wasn't quite what I was expecting either. The writing was actually good but the blurb of this did make it sound so much darker than it turned out to be. I went into this with expectations of delicious darkness but in that regard, this fell flat. the female MC was labelled a bad-ass sadistic serial killer and monikered the Butcher due to her delightful habit of hanging her victims on meat hooks and the male MC was a king of shadows and monsters so why did this then feel more fluffy kittens less dangerous demons, even the prison realm that Rory has been sentenced to Vincula is more holiday camp extended vacation than any real punishment man I was disappointed.
Still despite the above this was enjoyable just don't go expecting The Umbra King Caius to be this morally grey villain he's so far from that description that it's ridiculous. Caius is actually a bit of a misunderstood sweetie and the inmates love him irregardless of his role and power over them and regarding his initial torment of Rory when she arrives in his realm well it was mostly playground stuff and this is all because he thinks her soul is black due to her crimes. That right shows what a pussy-cat Caius is as he can't stomach and is initially disgusted by her prior actions.
This for me was a solid 3 and I enjoyed it enough to continue on with the conclusion and though i wasn't sold on the ending of this I'm still invested enough to want to know what happens next. Triggers wise well there really isn't anything red flag worthy here this does have dark themes but it isn't a dark read. There is some OW jealousy stuff from a disgruntled soon-to-be ex-hook-up that causes issues for Rory but apart from that your good to go.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
August 21, 2023
WOAH WOAH WOAH this was a rollercoaster of a ride 😵
Firstly, I have to say I love Caius so much in this book. He's so hot and at the same time so cute! He's charming and SO caring, he truly is boyfriend material - wait no, even better, he's husband material 😍
The only thing that got me reading this book was when I saw the name 'Caius' (my friend shareen probably knows why and is rolling her eyes if she ever sees this review). After scrolling through other people's reviews I realised he's gonna be super hot too so it was like killing 2 birds with a stone, and this book went straight to my mental MUST READ ASAP PRIORITY List.
The writing style took some time to get used to. It was different in a way I can't quite place, however I loved the book as it progressed and got me deeper into its story (and deeper in love with the Umbra King 🤭) The characters were all nicely planned and I'm actually not a huge fan of fantasy, because at times there is too much made up information about the worlds that get me confused quickly, but this really impressed me in ways I thought it couldn't. There was drama and plot twists here and there and the spice was the cherry on top!
This book is about a woman named Rory (Aurora Raven) who witnessed her sister being murdered by bad people and this led to her becoming a serial killer (The Butcher) killing evil people with black souls since she has the ability to see people's souls as a Fey. She brutally murdered 13 people and this led to her ending up in Vincula for a 500 year sentence. There is where she met Caius and the adventure begins from here!!
The ending was terribly good. I was re-reading the last few pages to make sure I read it correctly. You can't do this to me i seriously froze in my seat thinking about what the hell just happened 🥶🥶
Am I going to read the next book? HELL YEAH! 😍
There is nothing I would change. Maybe sometimes scenes were awkwardly written and sounded cringe, but that could also be a 'me problem' so I'm still giving it 5 shiny stars! Coming to think of it, this is my first 5 Star rating of 2023! 😯
I would recommend this book to people who like fantasy and romance. Some of the descriptions might be triggering for some people though, so do check out the trigger warnings beforehand!
Firstly, I have to say I love Caius so much in this book. He's so hot and at the same time so cute! He's charming and SO caring, he truly is boyfriend material - wait no, even better, he's husband material 😍
The only thing that got me reading this book was when I saw the name 'Caius' (my friend shareen probably knows why and is rolling her eyes if she ever sees this review). After scrolling through other people's reviews I realised he's gonna be super hot too so it was like killing 2 birds with a stone, and this book went straight to my mental MUST READ ASAP PRIORITY List.
The writing style took some time to get used to. It was different in a way I can't quite place, however I loved the book as it progressed and got me deeper into its story (and deeper in love with the Umbra King 🤭) The characters were all nicely planned and I'm actually not a huge fan of fantasy, because at times there is too much made up information about the worlds that get me confused quickly, but this really impressed me in ways I thought it couldn't. There was drama and plot twists here and there and the spice was the cherry on top!
This book is about a woman named Rory (Aurora Raven) who witnessed her sister being murdered by bad people and this led to her becoming a serial killer (The Butcher) killing evil people with black souls since she has the ability to see people's souls as a Fey. She brutally murdered 13 people and this led to her ending up in Vincula for a 500 year sentence. There is where she met Caius and the adventure begins from here!!
The ending was terribly good. I was re-reading the last few pages to make sure I read it correctly. You can't do this to me i seriously froze in my seat thinking about what the hell just happened 🥶🥶
Am I going to read the next book? HELL YEAH! 😍
There is nothing I would change. Maybe sometimes scenes were awkwardly written and sounded cringe, but that could also be a 'me problem' so I'm still giving it 5 shiny stars! Coming to think of it, this is my first 5 Star rating of 2023! 😯
I would recommend this book to people who like fantasy and romance. Some of the descriptions might be triggering for some people though, so do check out the trigger warnings beforehand!
April 12, 2024
WHAT WAS THAT ENDINGGGGGGG UGHHHHHH
• Enemies to Lovers
• Badass FMC
• Morally Grey shadow daddy MMC
• Prophecy
• Found family
• Fae, Angels, Shifters
• An ending that will have you staring at the wall for hours.
I loved this book so much, holy smokes. Aurora is such a feisty badass. She witnesses her sister being killed, and dedicates her life to finding the fucker who did it, and taking out absolute monsters along the way. She eventually gets caught and is sentenced to 500 years in the prison realm, where she meets the Umbra King, whom she immediately recognizes as her sisters murderer. The Umbra King thinks she deserved a harsher sentence… a lifetime in Hell. They both have it out for eachother.
ENEMIES TO LOVERS DONE SO RIGHT 🙏🏻 the tension was tensioning, the angst, the push and pull. It was so well done!
I have some beef with Jamie tho… that ending?! Talk about gut wrenching WHIPLASH. I immediately dove into book 2, I need answers. I need more. I need an HEA 🥲
Highly recommend! DAYUM.
• Enemies to Lovers
• Badass FMC
• Morally Grey shadow daddy MMC
• Prophecy
• Found family
• Fae, Angels, Shifters
• An ending that will have you staring at the wall for hours.
I loved this book so much, holy smokes. Aurora is such a feisty badass. She witnesses her sister being killed, and dedicates her life to finding the fucker who did it, and taking out absolute monsters along the way. She eventually gets caught and is sentenced to 500 years in the prison realm, where she meets the Umbra King, whom she immediately recognizes as her sisters murderer. The Umbra King thinks she deserved a harsher sentence… a lifetime in Hell. They both have it out for eachother.
ENEMIES TO LOVERS DONE SO RIGHT 🙏🏻 the tension was tensioning, the angst, the push and pull. It was so well done!
I have some beef with Jamie tho… that ending?! Talk about gut wrenching WHIPLASH. I immediately dove into book 2, I need answers. I need more. I need an HEA 🥲
Highly recommend! DAYUM.
February 9, 2025
This book was perfection 🤩
July 19, 2023
This is by far one of the stupidest books I have ever read. Jesus Christ on a cracker.
I both do and don't want to rant about this book, so I'll try to go the middle road.
- first of all, the names of the female lead's family are stupid (and hers is extremely YA). The names?
Mother LenoRA RAven
Female lead AuroRA RAven
Twin sister CoRA RAven
Father Patrick???
Listen, I stumble on words more than I'd like to admit and I'll tell you that I would stumble over pronouncing Aurora/Lenora/Cora Raven every single time
- this book was very obviously written by and for horny teens, no matter what the synopsis says about it being solely for 18+ people
- I mean, the number of sex scenes is way too fucking high (after they get together they get it on at every opportunity and just reading about it is exhausting)
- they don't even last long!!!
- this is pretty much the whole reasoning behind this duology but: That's it. That's the whole plot.
- the fact that Rory and Caius are mates is not doing this book any good
- it's literally the "she can only see grayscale until she meets her soulmate" tumblr trope ffs
- also their fucking age gap (of 500 years)
- the main baddie in this book (but not in the overall plot) is Nina, who is angry Caius prefers Rory over her, which is why Nina keeps trying to kill Rory to no avail
- Rory is a serial killer, she was convicted of 13 murders, but all her friends joke about it like it's nothing. Even her "normal" friends are surprisingly okay with her being a murderer
- idk much about the Bible, but I thought the Seraphim and angels were kinda the same thing?? In this book, they're absolutely not
- Caius is just another dude being able to wield shadows and I wish authors would get more original
- stupid names like Bellina, Tallent, and Dume
- whenever something "new" happens, it's immediately explained. For example, someone mentions potato sticks, and immediately after we're told what those are. French fries, they're french fries.
There's probably more but ugh.
The only saving graces were Lauren and (sometimes) Sam, so the whole one star is dedicated to them :)
I both do and don't want to rant about this book, so I'll try to go the middle road.
- first of all, the names of the female lead's family are stupid (and hers is extremely YA). The names?
Mother LenoRA RAven
Female lead AuroRA RAven
Twin sister CoRA RAven
Father Patrick???
Listen, I stumble on words more than I'd like to admit and I'll tell you that I would stumble over pronouncing Aurora/Lenora/Cora Raven every single time
- this book was very obviously written by and for horny teens, no matter what the synopsis says about it being solely for 18+ people
- I mean, the number of sex scenes is way too fucking high (after they get together they get it on at every opportunity and just reading about it is exhausting)
- they don't even last long!!!
- this is pretty much the whole reasoning behind this duology but: That's it. That's the whole plot.
- the fact that Rory and Caius are mates is not doing this book any good
- it's literally the "she can only see grayscale until she meets her soulmate" tumblr trope ffs
- also their fucking age gap (of 500 years)
- the main baddie in this book (but not in the overall plot) is Nina, who is angry Caius prefers Rory over her, which is why Nina keeps trying to kill Rory to no avail
- Rory is a serial killer, she was convicted of 13 murders, but all her friends joke about it like it's nothing. Even her "normal" friends are surprisingly okay with her being a murderer
- idk much about the Bible, but I thought the Seraphim and angels were kinda the same thing?? In this book, they're absolutely not
- Caius is just another dude being able to wield shadows and I wish authors would get more original
- stupid names like Bellina, Tallent, and Dume
- whenever something "new" happens, it's immediately explained. For example, someone mentions potato sticks, and immediately after we're told what those are. French fries, they're french fries.
There's probably more but ugh.
The only saving graces were Lauren and (sometimes) Sam, so the whole one star is dedicated to them :)
February 3, 2023
Holy shit holy shit HOLY SHIT???????
This fantasy story is about Aurora (Rory) who witnesses her twin sister Cora's murder at the ripe age of 15. Left extremely traumatized, she makes it her personal mission to find and avenge her sisters' killers while also taking justice further into her own hands by murdering 13 men. Sounds awful, right? Wrong, all the men she murdered were in the process of murdering or attempting to rape someone. She unfortunately gets caught and is sent to prison with a sentence of 500 years. Let me be perfectly clear: I support women's rights AND women's wrongs.
The romance in this book was immaculate, the spice was a nice bonus because it wasn't too much, but it wasn't too little. The friendships and side characters really made you feel something, the prophecy and the murder mystery really kept you engaged in the story. Overall, it was amazing. The cliffhanger will have you salivating for the next book.
The worldbuilding was a little confusing at first, but thankfully there is a full glossary and the front that explains everything. There is even a YouTube video linked at the beginning of the eBook where it demonstrated how to pronounce all the names and places. The dedication is *chefs kiss*.
I am only knocking down half a star point because there were points towards the last 1/3rd of the book that felt very rushed. Some of the chapters could have been much longer with more inner dialogue and more time describing some of the setting.
4.5/5. Please read this book.
This fantasy story is about Aurora (Rory) who witnesses her twin sister Cora's murder at the ripe age of 15. Left extremely traumatized, she makes it her personal mission to find and avenge her sisters' killers while also taking justice further into her own hands by murdering 13 men. Sounds awful, right? Wrong, all the men she murdered were in the process of murdering or attempting to rape someone. She unfortunately gets caught and is sent to prison with a sentence of 500 years. Let me be perfectly clear: I support women's rights AND women's wrongs.
The romance in this book was immaculate, the spice was a nice bonus because it wasn't too much, but it wasn't too little. The friendships and side characters really made you feel something, the prophecy and the murder mystery really kept you engaged in the story. Overall, it was amazing. The cliffhanger will have you salivating for the next book.
The worldbuilding was a little confusing at first, but thankfully there is a full glossary and the front that explains everything. There is even a YouTube video linked at the beginning of the eBook where it demonstrated how to pronounce all the names and places. The dedication is *chefs kiss*.
I am only knocking down half a star point because there were points towards the last 1/3rd of the book that felt very rushed. Some of the chapters could have been much longer with more inner dialogue and more time describing some of the setting.
4.5/5. Please read this book.
May 9, 2024
4,5
Bon, j'ai adoré. Êtes-vous surpris ? Je ne sais pas.
On part sur une bonne base : romantasy, à partir de là, il y a de grandes chances que ça me plaise.
Et c'est réussi. On a plusieurs royaumes, avec des dirigeants différents. Plein de mystiques différents avec pleinnns de pouvoirs variés.
Notre protagoniste, elle est direct badass. À partir du moment où elle voit la personne qu'elle aime le plus se faire tuer sous ses yeux, elle va vivre pour se venger.
Elle devient alors une espèce de justicière à Erdikoa. Sauf que manque de bol... elle se fait prendre.
Condamnée à bcp (vraiment bcp) d'années de prison sur le royaume de Vincula, elle se dit que c'est sa chance: elle va enfin pouvoir venger sa sœur et tuer Caius.
Sauf que tout ne se passe pas comme prévu...
J'ai ADORÉ Rory et j'ai ADORÉ Caius. Franchement, les deux ont bcp de tempéraments et j'ai de suite accroché. J'ai vraiment aimé suivre les aventures de Rory, autant sur Erdikoa que sur Vincula.
La trope Found family est super bien exécutée et vraiment présente, comme le enemies to lovers. Vraiment la tension >>>
Les apparences sont parfois trompeuses et peut-être aurait-elle dû écouter sa mère depuis le début...
J'ai vraiment hâte de lire la suite.
Bon, j'ai adoré. Êtes-vous surpris ? Je ne sais pas.
On part sur une bonne base : romantasy, à partir de là, il y a de grandes chances que ça me plaise.
Et c'est réussi. On a plusieurs royaumes, avec des dirigeants différents. Plein de mystiques différents avec pleinnns de pouvoirs variés.
Notre protagoniste, elle est direct badass. À partir du moment où elle voit la personne qu'elle aime le plus se faire tuer sous ses yeux, elle va vivre pour se venger.
Elle devient alors une espèce de justicière à Erdikoa. Sauf que manque de bol... elle se fait prendre.
Condamnée à bcp (vraiment bcp) d'années de prison sur le royaume de Vincula, elle se dit que c'est sa chance: elle va enfin pouvoir venger sa sœur et tuer Caius.
Sauf que tout ne se passe pas comme prévu...
J'ai ADORÉ Rory et j'ai ADORÉ Caius. Franchement, les deux ont bcp de tempéraments et j'ai de suite accroché. J'ai vraiment aimé suivre les aventures de Rory, autant sur Erdikoa que sur Vincula.
La trope Found family est super bien exécutée et vraiment présente, comme le enemies to lovers. Vraiment la tension >>>
Les apparences sont parfois trompeuses et peut-être aurait-elle dû écouter sa mère depuis le début...
J'ai vraiment hâte de lire la suite.
January 23, 2023
NO NO NO NO NOT THE ENDING. because of that crazy cliffhanger i’m giving this 3.75 stars. i’m gonna be honest, at first i was very confused about all of the terminology and world building, but about a quarter of the way in i understood. the urban fantasy in this was a little funky, but i do think the sun room in vincula was cool. also i feel like rory and caius’s relationship switched from enemies to lovers too quick.
i WILL be reading the next book because i’m so intrigued and want to know how everything is going to play out!
i WILL be reading the next book because i’m so intrigued and want to know how everything is going to play out!
January 27, 2025
J'ai vraiment beaucoup aimé cette lecture. On peu 🌶️ par contre.
Une belle romantasy pas trop compliqué.
Je me plonge dans le tome 2
Une belle romantasy pas trop compliqué.
Je me plonge dans le tome 2
January 3, 2025
Ну що, почнемо рік з розчарувань?))
Буквально кожна букблогерка казала що це шикарне темне роментезі. Всі були в захопленні.
Значить, дивіться:
- з темного там нічого. Навіть темний світ, в який потрапляє головна героїня мені здався дуже комфортним)
- моментальна тяга гг один до одного. Я в таке не вірю. Побачив і всьо. Буде моя!
- стиль письма. Він якийсь дитячий і навіть крінжовий. Короткі речення, передбачувані слова і почуття, дуууже багато кліше.
- «неочікуваний» поворот в кінці якийсь абсолютно не логічний і для мене особисто- нецікавий.
Тільки тому що я купила відразу 2 книги special edition я прочитаю другу, але не скоро!
Це треба залікувати)))
Буквально кожна букблогерка казала що це шикарне темне роментезі. Всі були в захопленні.
Значить, дивіться:
- з темного там нічого. Навіть темний світ, в який потрапляє головна героїня мені здався дуже комфортним)
- моментальна тяга гг один до одного. Я в таке не вірю. Побачив і всьо. Буде моя!
- стиль письма. Він якийсь дитячий і навіть крінжовий. Короткі речення, передбачувані слова і почуття, дуууже багато кліше.
- «неочікуваний» поворот в кінці якийсь абсолютно не логічний і для мене особисто- нецікавий.
Тільки тому що я купила відразу 2 книги special edition я прочитаю другу, але не скоро!
Це треба залікувати)))
August 1, 2023
I HAVE THOUGHTS
RTC
RTC
November 21, 2022
DFN at 70%. The concept and the premises were super intriguing: Morally grey MCs, badass vigilante FMC, enemies-to-lovers, angst, I-hate-you-but-I-am-attracted-to-you? I’m sold.
Unfortunately my expectations were crushed while reading. Both the MCs were extremely childish, even though they were adults ( 25yo and +500yo ) and I tried very hard to like them but I couldn’t. Rory’s character started out really well as we get to see her in her vigilante duty, but everything went up in flames when she reached the prison realm or whatever it was.
From there, everything went downhill.
The prison realm was almost better than the normal realm. The sense in that? Apart from not seeing the sun, everything was pretty amazing. The interactions between the two MCs were so cringey I had to stop reading to take a breath (they helped me remember why I like being single btw). I can’t with the insta lust. The only cute one was when Caius asked Rory to identify the bowl’s color. That’s it.
Rory: couldn’t stand her.
Caius: couldn’t stand him even more.
The bunch of secondary characters: they felt flat and unimportant. I can’t remember any quality about them.
Even Sam - who had an important role in the book - was one-dimensional.
Nina: just think about all those Wattpad female characters who had been written like b!tche$ just because they had an interest for the MMC. That’s Nina. I pitied her cause she was the sum of all misogynistic stereotypes existing. I thought we were past that.
Maybe my expectations were too high, but unfortunately I didn’t like it. Even the writing felt off.
Pity, cause the idea was super interesting.
Unfortunately my expectations were crushed while reading. Both the MCs were extremely childish, even though they were adults ( 25yo and +500yo ) and I tried very hard to like them but I couldn’t. Rory’s character started out really well as we get to see her in her vigilante duty, but everything went up in flames when she reached the prison realm or whatever it was.
From there, everything went downhill.
The prison realm was almost better than the normal realm. The sense in that? Apart from not seeing the sun, everything was pretty amazing. The interactions between the two MCs were so cringey I had to stop reading to take a breath (they helped me remember why I like being single btw). I can’t with the insta lust. The only cute one was when Caius asked Rory to identify the bowl’s color. That’s it.
Rory: couldn’t stand her.
Caius: couldn’t stand him even more.
The bunch of secondary characters: they felt flat and unimportant. I can’t remember any quality about them.
Even Sam - who had an important role in the book - was one-dimensional.
Nina: just think about all those Wattpad female characters who had been written like b!tche$ just because they had an interest for the MMC. That’s Nina. I pitied her cause she was the sum of all misogynistic stereotypes existing. I thought we were past that.
Maybe my expectations were too high, but unfortunately I didn’t like it. Even the writing felt off.
Pity, cause the idea was super interesting.
March 3, 2025
3.5⭐️
I almost dnf this 3 times in the first half. The second half of this book saved it and then that fuckin cliffhanger made me cry!
My brain doesn’t function enough to really understand and comprehend a lot of fantasy so I really liked the multiple pages of ‘world guide’ at the start of the book.
3rd person pov
Fae fmc/ King of the prison realm mmc
Fated mates
cliffhanger
Owd/omd- so this is what almost had me DNFing.
At 13% fmc had sex with om, it was someone she picked up in a bar and he was a virgin so it was crap for her and very brief. (h wasn’t a virgin, she was experienced and said fucking was something she liked to do to relieve stress.) She didn’t know the H yet at all though.
But at 23% the h and H had already met, she was a prisoner, him the King. h interrupted H who was with OW, the ow was only in her bra and on all fours he was naked behind her but when h left he didn’t do anything with ow and he left too.
At 43% H wanted to know if h would be jealous if she saw him with Ow so he took Ow to dinner and made sure h saw them. She was jealous and he was happy about that, he ended the dinner after they ate.
But then At 45% ow offered herself, he told her to get naked and get on all fours because he was trying to fight his growing attachment to the h, but he thought of h and told Ow to get out and leave.
So even though he technically wasn’t with Ow once h arrived in the prison realm it was still into ‘unsafe’ territory for me and I hated all this shit so much.
At 50% H realises h is his eternal mate and when ow tries to cause drama it gets shut down by h & H several times until she’s taken care of 🔪
I almost dnf this 3 times in the first half. The second half of this book saved it and then that fuckin cliffhanger made me cry!
My brain doesn’t function enough to really understand and comprehend a lot of fantasy so I really liked the multiple pages of ‘world guide’ at the start of the book.
3rd person pov
Fae fmc/ King of the prison realm mmc
Fated mates
cliffhanger
Owd/omd- so this is what almost had me DNFing.
At 13% fmc had sex with om, it was someone she picked up in a bar and he was a virgin so it was crap for her and very brief. (h wasn’t a virgin, she was experienced and said fucking was something she liked to do to relieve stress.) She didn’t know the H yet at all though.
But at 23% the h and H had already met, she was a prisoner, him the King. h interrupted H who was with OW, the ow was only in her bra and on all fours he was naked behind her but when h left he didn’t do anything with ow and he left too.
At 43% H wanted to know if h would be jealous if she saw him with Ow so he took Ow to dinner and made sure h saw them. She was jealous and he was happy about that, he ended the dinner after they ate.
But then At 45% ow offered herself, he told her to get naked and get on all fours because he was trying to fight his growing attachment to the h, but he thought of h and told Ow to get out and leave.
So even though he technically wasn’t with Ow once h arrived in the prison realm it was still into ‘unsafe’ territory for me and I hated all this shit so much.
At 50% H realises h is his eternal mate and when ow tries to cause drama it gets shut down by h & H several times until she’s taken care of 🔪
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 3, 2023
HOLY MF SH*T my 2023 fantasy reading has started off with not just a bang but a NUCLEAR explosion !!
4.5/5 ⭐️
2.8/5 🌶
I stayed up all night reading this. 7 straight hours of eyes glued to the pages. This book HOOKED me in.
This book gave off strong Crescent City mixed with a little Kingdom of the Wicked (but so much better) VIBES.
This has the BEST tropes and they’re done WELL —-
- touch her and I’ll kill you
- ENEMIES to lovers
I didn’t rate 5 stars because there were a few times where the plot was a little too predictable or just something I’ve seen a million times before. But it ended up going in a good direction and really made up for it so kudos !!
THE CLIFF HANGER!! I have to wait 2 months for the next one and it makes me want to pluck out my eye balls!!!
4.5/5 ⭐️
2.8/5 🌶
I stayed up all night reading this. 7 straight hours of eyes glued to the pages. This book HOOKED me in.
This book gave off strong Crescent City mixed with a little Kingdom of the Wicked (but so much better) VIBES.
This has the BEST tropes and they’re done WELL —-
- touch her and I’ll kill you
- ENEMIES to lovers
I didn’t rate 5 stars because there were a few times where the plot was a little too predictable or just something I’ve seen a million times before. But it ended up going in a good direction and really made up for it so kudos !!
THE CLIFF HANGER!! I have to wait 2 months for the next one and it makes me want to pluck out my eye balls!!!
October 20, 2022
2.5
I was promised a few things before reading this...
▪︎a morally gray character
▪︎enemies to lovers (not instalove 😾😾)
▪︎a baddie female lead (she was ok?¿)
▪︎someone to swoon over (🚬😔)
Did i get any of this? Sadly, no. Was it good? Meh. Will i read the sequel? Yeah, why not
Don't get me wrong, it wasn't terrible... but it also wasn't good 🤷♀️🤷♀️
I was promised a few things before reading this...
▪︎a morally gray character
▪︎enemies to lovers (not instalove 😾😾)
▪︎a baddie female lead (she was ok?¿)
▪︎someone to swoon over (🚬😔)
Did i get any of this? Sadly, no. Was it good? Meh. Will i read the sequel? Yeah, why not
Don't get me wrong, it wasn't terrible... but it also wasn't good 🤷♀️🤷♀️
Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,047 reviews