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The Gold Weaver #2
Das Königreich unter dem Eisenfluch: Eine düstere Fantasy-Romanze (Die Goldweberin)
Heartbroken and betrayed, I fled the faerie court… only to be dragged back by my captor, a dark Fae Prince.
I should have never made a deal with Ruskin.
He’s used me before.
Now, he needs me again. The Queen has been doomed to eternal sleep. And I alone can break the spell.
Once she wakes, my work should be done. I can leave and force myself to forget the handsome prince and his brutal yet beautiful court.
Queen Evanthe’s return was meant to heal the land, but she’s too weak.
It doesn’t take long to discover that an iron-soaked curse now haunts this land.
Only by uncovering the sinister plots woven through the court can I break the curse.
I won’t be able to do it alone.
Somehow, magic runs through my blood, and every day at court I'm closer to unlocking my true power.
But it’s deeply entwined with the Fae Prince. And he’s not to be trusted.
Nor can I trust myself around him.
His kisses draw me to him, even as his manipulations threaten to tear us apart.
And I fear the secrets he's keeping could doom us all.
I should have never made a deal with Ruskin.
He’s used me before.
Now, he needs me again. The Queen has been doomed to eternal sleep. And I alone can break the spell.
Once she wakes, my work should be done. I can leave and force myself to forget the handsome prince and his brutal yet beautiful court.
Queen Evanthe’s return was meant to heal the land, but she’s too weak.
It doesn’t take long to discover that an iron-soaked curse now haunts this land.
Only by uncovering the sinister plots woven through the court can I break the curse.
I won’t be able to do it alone.
Somehow, magic runs through my blood, and every day at court I'm closer to unlocking my true power.
But it’s deeply entwined with the Fae Prince. And he’s not to be trusted.
Nor can I trust myself around him.
His kisses draw me to him, even as his manipulations threaten to tear us apart.
And I fear the secrets he's keeping could doom us all.
376 pages, Paperback
Published February 25, 2025
1044 people are currently reading
1765 people want to read
About the author
Zara Storm
22 books160 followersFor readers who love clever heroines and twisty plots that keep you thinking.
Zara Storm writes fantasy romance with dark, compelling heroes and sassy, competent heroines. Her debut series is The Gold Weaver series. Zara loves fast-paced books with adventure, magic, strong characters, a rough-edged hero, and spicy romance.
Zara lives in Colorado with her husband, their two kids, her scaredy cat pit-bull mix, and their feisty cat who is queen of the house. When she’s not writing, she loves to read, hike the mountains, and travel to new places, but she’ll cop to the fact that she spends too much time watching Tiktok videos and she can endlessly watch Lucifer and Vampire Diaries.
You can connect with Zara on Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram, and her website.
Zara Storm writes fantasy romance with dark, compelling heroes and sassy, competent heroines. Her debut series is The Gold Weaver series. Zara loves fast-paced books with adventure, magic, strong characters, a rough-edged hero, and spicy romance.
Zara lives in Colorado with her husband, their two kids, her scaredy cat pit-bull mix, and their feisty cat who is queen of the house. When she’s not writing, she loves to read, hike the mountains, and travel to new places, but she’ll cop to the fact that she spends too much time watching Tiktok videos and she can endlessly watch Lucifer and Vampire Diaries.
You can connect with Zara on Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram, and her website.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 164 reviews
May 30, 2024
This book is an ABSOLUTELY wild ride.
After our first adventure with Eleanor and Ruskin, we expect that Eleanor will fall quickly back into easy camaraderie and companionship with Rus. Instead, she's stubborn as all get out, easily angered, and very guarded with her heart.
Of course, Ella is always ready to do the right thing and help others; something she definitely inherited from her mother. The throws herself headfirst into helping Faerie, and, in turn, Ruskin.
Ruskin is an open book with his affection, but, unfortunately, not much else, which is very frustrating for Eleanor. He can't understand why she just can't love him openly, and she can't understand why he doesn't tell her everything about anything at all that has ever happened. Their communication is slightly frustrating because they're both so stubborn in different ways. Their personalities make for a great back-and-forth between them.
I loved the way the story progressed, and that there was always action happening. There was never anything dull or boring going on while reading, making this an instant page turner.
The author takes the reader on a fast-paced adventure full of treachery, love, danger, secrets, and betrayal.
Noteworthy quote:
"But don't you want to fuck, Ella?"
The way I GASPED...oooo child!!!!
A great read for those who want incredible spice along with an amazing fantasy world with untold mysteries to uncover.
After our first adventure with Eleanor and Ruskin, we expect that Eleanor will fall quickly back into easy camaraderie and companionship with Rus. Instead, she's stubborn as all get out, easily angered, and very guarded with her heart.
Of course, Ella is always ready to do the right thing and help others; something she definitely inherited from her mother. The throws herself headfirst into helping Faerie, and, in turn, Ruskin.
Ruskin is an open book with his affection, but, unfortunately, not much else, which is very frustrating for Eleanor. He can't understand why she just can't love him openly, and she can't understand why he doesn't tell her everything about anything at all that has ever happened. Their communication is slightly frustrating because they're both so stubborn in different ways. Their personalities make for a great back-and-forth between them.
I loved the way the story progressed, and that there was always action happening. There was never anything dull or boring going on while reading, making this an instant page turner.
The author takes the reader on a fast-paced adventure full of treachery, love, danger, secrets, and betrayal.
Noteworthy quote:
"But don't you want to fuck, Ella?"
The way I GASPED...oooo child!!!!
A great read for those who want incredible spice along with an amazing fantasy world with untold mysteries to uncover.
July 6, 2024
Book 2 in the Gold Weaver series! The Court that Bleeds Gold ended on a huge cliffhanger and this much awaited sequel picks up right where the action left off! Things have only gotten more intense and more complicated between Ruskin and Eleanor and now there is a new evil threatening the Seelie court that only she can stop.
Things I loved: I love seeing Eleanor come into herself and her magic. We see her confidence grow and she learns how to fight! I actually really really loved that this character wasn’t already a fighter, just a stubborn and brilliant woman with a willingness to learn!! It helped me relate to her more during the training scenes like she’s ✨just a girl✨. I also really enjoyed the twist at the end. I was getting sus towards Halima and I never would have saw that ending coming! Definitely kept me on my toes the whole book.
Things I didn’t like: obviously with any fast paced book sometimes things feel TOO fast. I wish we saw more of Eleanor’s sword training with Halima bc those were my favorite scenes! Lastly the ending felt rushed. I know there is another book coming but it felt like the book ended in the middle of a sentence! I legit had to flip back and forth and make sure a page wasn’t missing 😅 either way, I’m excited for book 3!!!
This series is so incredibly fast paced it’s a great easy fantasy with minimal world building and characters that I think anyone new to fantasy or looking for a quick read would absolutely love!
Things I loved: I love seeing Eleanor come into herself and her magic. We see her confidence grow and she learns how to fight! I actually really really loved that this character wasn’t already a fighter, just a stubborn and brilliant woman with a willingness to learn!! It helped me relate to her more during the training scenes like she’s ✨just a girl✨. I also really enjoyed the twist at the end. I was getting sus towards Halima and I never would have saw that ending coming! Definitely kept me on my toes the whole book.
Things I didn’t like: obviously with any fast paced book sometimes things feel TOO fast. I wish we saw more of Eleanor’s sword training with Halima bc those were my favorite scenes! Lastly the ending felt rushed. I know there is another book coming but it felt like the book ended in the middle of a sentence! I legit had to flip back and forth and make sure a page wasn’t missing 😅 either way, I’m excited for book 3!!!
This series is so incredibly fast paced it’s a great easy fantasy with minimal world building and characters that I think anyone new to fantasy or looking for a quick read would absolutely love!
September 5, 2024
2024 Reads #475/250
August 27, 2024
2.5⭐️ I had higher hopes for this, but it just fell flat for me when it came to both the characters and most of the plot.
At first, I was into the storyline of the cold iron sprouting and wreaking havoc, but after the initial mystery - most of the plot after that just drags on and deviates on other subplots.
The biggest problem is the wishy-washy relationship between Eleanor and Ruskin. We basically get a ‘back to the start’ enemies to lovers, and it’s worse than the first time around.
Eleanor’s inner monologue gets extremely grating. She goes from loving him but can’t be with him in one breath, to kissing him and making out the next, back to angry. The whiplash gets very old, very quickly. She says she can’t trust him to tell her secret, then the literal next chapter she blurts it out to him.
Ruskin does all of these supposedly relationship-ending things that Eleanor dislikes about him that he doesn’t ever apologize for or address, is controlling, manipulative but then a minute later she apologizes to him? Also the secret he’s keeping is so blatantly obvious, it just makes her look stupid.
Everything is extremely spelled out that it’s not really exciting to read, and the parts of the story that should have been longer are rushed though. Almost every single character’s personality is one dimensional and underdeveloped.
Destan - basically just likes clothes; all around blasé
Kalima - borderline rude, with zero personality
Evanthe - barely says a word half the book until the last 30 pages.
Eleanor - Hypocritical self-righteous FMCs are a major ick for me.
Ruskin - a log has more ability to express emotion.
Maidar - random stereotypical ‘mentor’ trope thrown in
*Insert more predictable antagonists against Ruskin and Eleanor here*
That whole ‘trial scene’ was just so underwhelming it might as well not have been included.
As with the first book, only until you reach the end does it actually get interesting, but it’s overshadowed by everything else. Won’t be continuing.
At first, I was into the storyline of the cold iron sprouting and wreaking havoc, but after the initial mystery - most of the plot after that just drags on and deviates on other subplots.
The biggest problem is the wishy-washy relationship between Eleanor and Ruskin. We basically get a ‘back to the start’ enemies to lovers, and it’s worse than the first time around.
Eleanor’s inner monologue gets extremely grating. She goes from loving him but can’t be with him in one breath, to kissing him and making out the next, back to angry. The whiplash gets very old, very quickly. She says she can’t trust him to tell her secret, then the literal next chapter she blurts it out to him.
Ruskin does all of these supposedly relationship-ending things that Eleanor dislikes about him that he doesn’t ever apologize for or address, is controlling, manipulative but then a minute later she apologizes to him? Also the secret he’s keeping is so blatantly obvious, it just makes her look stupid.
Everything is extremely spelled out that it’s not really exciting to read, and the parts of the story that should have been longer are rushed though. Almost every single character’s personality is one dimensional and underdeveloped.
Destan - basically just likes clothes; all around blasé
Kalima - borderline rude, with zero personality
Evanthe - barely says a word half the book until the last 30 pages.
Eleanor - Hypocritical self-righteous FMCs are a major ick for me.
Ruskin - a log has more ability to express emotion.
Maidar - random stereotypical ‘mentor’ trope thrown in
*Insert more predictable antagonists against Ruskin and Eleanor here*
That whole ‘trial scene’ was just so underwhelming it might as well not have been included.
As with the first book, only until you reach the end does it actually get interesting, but it’s overshadowed by everything else. Won’t be continuing.
September 1, 2024
This was bad. Almost a DNF. You could have made this plot into an intro in the next book or made the first book longer. It was so slow, both the main characters got on my nerves with the will they won't they and I was not invested in their romance because the MMC did not seem willing to change. It was painstakingly predictable, which is so upsetting because I genuinely enjoyed the first book. I am so frustrated at the "twist" ending because it was very clear to me in the early chapters. It was also upsetting that none of the characters thought about it as a possibility. I am perturbed.
February 23, 2025
I enjoyed this book as well but not as much as the previous one. I found Eleanor waffling between being with Ruskin and not being Ruskin to be immensely annoying. I hate it when the character's like I love him but I can't be with because he betrayed me when there's honestly a easy to see logical reason. Like I get it if the reason that they can't be together is is something external but it's especially annoying when there could be a good explanation and the character refuses to even consider it and just fixates on one thing.
This one also had a couple of twists that I didn't see coming but one of them was a little bit more expected than the other. Overall, a good story with good pacing but annoying characters.
This one also had a couple of twists that I didn't see coming but one of them was a little bit more expected than the other. Overall, a good story with good pacing but annoying characters.
June 8, 2024
Ooh boy the next chapter of the BATB/Rumplestiltskin story picks up with magical human Eleanor back in the human realm, having left Ruskin behind in Faerie after discovering that even still, he’s keeping ~secrets~
Of course our boy (Prince, I guess) pops back up just in time to save Eleanor from attack and brings her back to Faerie- also just in time to use her metallurgy magic to push back sprouts of iron popping up across the realm and endangering the citizens of the Seelie Court. Despite her frustration with him, Eleanor agrees to stay and help more, giving her and Ruskin time to deal with their issues- as much as they can!
This was a fast-moving, interesting story that answered a ton of questions. It did, however, feel like a bit of an interlude in the middle of the trilogy, setting us up for the big excitement in the final installment coming this fall. Ruskin and Eleanor and their friends Destan and Halima trained, fought, laughed, and schemed their way through this story- and even brought in a crazy old Maurice (I mean Magister) to really round out the story!
This was fun- but I’m even more intrigued to find out what’s coming next!!!!
Thank you so much to Zara Storm and NetGalley for a chance to read this in exchange for an honest review!
Of course our boy (Prince, I guess) pops back up just in time to save Eleanor from attack and brings her back to Faerie- also just in time to use her metallurgy magic to push back sprouts of iron popping up across the realm and endangering the citizens of the Seelie Court. Despite her frustration with him, Eleanor agrees to stay and help more, giving her and Ruskin time to deal with their issues- as much as they can!
This was a fast-moving, interesting story that answered a ton of questions. It did, however, feel like a bit of an interlude in the middle of the trilogy, setting us up for the big excitement in the final installment coming this fall. Ruskin and Eleanor and their friends Destan and Halima trained, fought, laughed, and schemed their way through this story- and even brought in a crazy old Maurice (I mean Magister) to really round out the story!
This was fun- but I’m even more intrigued to find out what’s coming next!!!!
Thank you so much to Zara Storm and NetGalley for a chance to read this in exchange for an honest review!
July 18, 2024
This is the second book in The Gold Weaver series and is a good continuation of Eleanor and Ruskin's story. Eleanor may have helped Ruskin rid the fae court of a curse in the first book, but there is a new threat to the court that he needs her help with.
At the same time, Eleanor is searching for answers about herself and her family. She knows Ruskin has some of the answers, but he claims he can't give them to her. We get a bit of a miscommunication trope and Eleanor struggles to trust Ruskin throughout much of this book.
I thoroughly enjoyed the storyline of this second book, but the miscommunication and distrust frustrated me. I wish we got more romance between these two in this book. There were also a decent amount of errors in the book that were hard to overlook. I would still recommend this series to romantasy lovers and look forward to the final book later this year!
Thank you to Relay Publishing and NetGalley for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for my review.
At the same time, Eleanor is searching for answers about herself and her family. She knows Ruskin has some of the answers, but he claims he can't give them to her. We get a bit of a miscommunication trope and Eleanor struggles to trust Ruskin throughout much of this book.
I thoroughly enjoyed the storyline of this second book, but the miscommunication and distrust frustrated me. I wish we got more romance between these two in this book. There were also a decent amount of errors in the book that were hard to overlook. I would still recommend this series to romantasy lovers and look forward to the final book later this year!
Thank you to Relay Publishing and NetGalley for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for my review.
December 17, 2024
“It’s different, Ella, because even if I cannot have you, I cannot have a world without you in it.”
Again, just like book one, the cover and title both tie into the plot really well, and I LOVE that! I also like how Ella didn't immediately run back to Ruskin when he saves her from the soldiers. She put her walls back up, and he had to work for it to earn her trust back. However, the tension was still there and even better this time because of the longing! And the teasing slowly came back as Ella got more comfortable. They definitely I just love her character so much. She is so intent on helping however she can even though the fae haven't always been the nicest to her. Besides the alchemy, I also really loved the training scenes between Ella and Halima. I love their friendship so much, and I like how there was a delicate balance between using the strengths Ella had to build her defensive skills without doing the whole training montage where the main character trains for a month and is immediately the best. OMG the big plot twist at the end?? I was not expecting that at all. And the big reveal with true names had me dropping my jaw. I'm excited to see how Ella continues to develop her powers in book three. That ending had me sobbing, but I can't wait to read book three!
Thank you Zara Storm for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
Again, just like book one, the cover and title both tie into the plot really well, and I LOVE that! I also like how Ella didn't immediately run back to Ruskin when he saves her from the soldiers. She put her walls back up, and he had to work for it to earn her trust back. However, the tension was still there and even better this time because of the longing! And the teasing slowly came back as Ella got more comfortable. They definitely I just love her character so much. She is so intent on helping however she can even though the fae haven't always been the nicest to her. Besides the alchemy, I also really loved the training scenes between Ella and Halima. I love their friendship so much, and I like how there was a delicate balance between using the strengths Ella had to build her defensive skills without doing the whole training montage where the main character trains for a month and is immediately the best. OMG the big plot twist at the end?? I was not expecting that at all. And the big reveal with true names had me dropping my jaw. I'm excited to see how Ella continues to develop her powers in book three. That ending had me sobbing, but I can't wait to read book three!
Thank you Zara Storm for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
August 3, 2024
This was a great sequel to a series that I absolutely adore. The main couple have so much chemistry, that each page is a delight to read.
The story picks up with Eleanor returning back into her human realm, where she discovers that her past might not be all that she once thought to be, and that her late mother did indeed have secrets. Especially, surrounding her birth. But of course, she can never run far from Ruskin Blackcoat (aka the fae prince). And with much efforts, he convinces Eleanor to return back to his kingdom for her help, once again.
This second novel deals with themes concerning fate, free will, family honor, trust, betrayal, greed and true love. Again, elements of the original and classical fairy tale Rumpelstiltskin are scatter across this story, but it’s cleverly done in a refreshing and unique twist.
At this point, I can’t wait to read the next novel in this series!
The story picks up with Eleanor returning back into her human realm, where she discovers that her past might not be all that she once thought to be, and that her late mother did indeed have secrets. Especially, surrounding her birth. But of course, she can never run far from Ruskin Blackcoat (aka the fae prince). And with much efforts, he convinces Eleanor to return back to his kingdom for her help, once again.
This second novel deals with themes concerning fate, free will, family honor, trust, betrayal, greed and true love. Again, elements of the original and classical fairy tale Rumpelstiltskin are scatter across this story, but it’s cleverly done in a refreshing and unique twist.
At this point, I can’t wait to read the next novel in this series!
June 3, 2024
Absolutely loved the first book of the series and this was everything I wanted and more. I’d like to thank Zara for sending me a copy of this arc in return for an honest review.
There were so many ups and downs within this book in terms of romance, it was like being on a rollercoaster, yet I love the way the story progresses. There is always something happening and never a dull moment. It kept me turning the pages aka tapping my kindle screen just to see what else could possibly be happening.
I will say that Ella and Ruskins communication is downright frustrating at times with all the back and forth and I honestly wanted to scream at them to just stop it but I guess it builds up the drama of the book. I loved the plot, the characters and the writing and would recommend this series to anyone who asks.
Some aspects I loved about it:
- enemies to lovers
- fae
- magic
There were so many ups and downs within this book in terms of romance, it was like being on a rollercoaster, yet I love the way the story progresses. There is always something happening and never a dull moment. It kept me turning the pages aka tapping my kindle screen just to see what else could possibly be happening.
I will say that Ella and Ruskins communication is downright frustrating at times with all the back and forth and I honestly wanted to scream at them to just stop it but I guess it builds up the drama of the book. I loved the plot, the characters and the writing and would recommend this series to anyone who asks.
Some aspects I loved about it:
- enemies to lovers
- fae
- magic
June 7, 2024
I absolutely loved this second installment of the Gold Weaver series! It is a WILD RIDE! 🎢
The heartbreak, the twists, the turns, the suspense, the mystery, the shock - the stakes are even higher than before, and I could not put this book down!
I loved that we got to see more of Eleanor’s magic in this story. Her transformation from alchemist to being a fierce, powerful human-but-more was exciting to read.
THE COURTS! These fae are really ruthless. The politics, the court intrigue, the backstabbing, the disregard for anyone else - I don’t even feel bad for thinking, “Well, well, well… how the turntables…” 😂
My heart broke for Rus quite a few times, but I love how it all came together in the end. The action-packed, on the edge of your seat wild ride was well worth it. The cliffhanger got me again, but I can’t wait to see where the story goes next!
The heartbreak, the twists, the turns, the suspense, the mystery, the shock - the stakes are even higher than before, and I could not put this book down!
I loved that we got to see more of Eleanor’s magic in this story. Her transformation from alchemist to being a fierce, powerful human-but-more was exciting to read.
THE COURTS! These fae are really ruthless. The politics, the court intrigue, the backstabbing, the disregard for anyone else - I don’t even feel bad for thinking, “Well, well, well… how the turntables…” 😂
My heart broke for Rus quite a few times, but I love how it all came together in the end. The action-packed, on the edge of your seat wild ride was well worth it. The cliffhanger got me again, but I can’t wait to see where the story goes next!
February 6, 2025
This book definitely fell prey to second book syndrome. I really enjoy the plot, I think it does a really good job of being inspired by the fairytales without being predictable. A little annoyed to see some of the very obvious and overdone tropes included here that brought it down. I also felt like the FMC became very hypocritical and annoying in this book when it wasn't necessarily how I would have characterized her before. Near the end, I think I got more of a sense of what the author was going for - learning to trust without evidence, taking a chance on something, etc - but it got a little boring to watch it after a while. I skimmed through more than I would have liked because of how repetative some aspects of the interpersonal conflict were, but the plot conflict is very interesting and is consistently very cool across both books. I thought this was a duology, but actually theres more which I'm not sure I am excited for after this book was a little bit of a bummer by comparison to the first one, but I am hoping this is just because second books are always worse. I am willing to risk it for the sake of what a cool plot this is and how much I like about the foundation of the setting.
June 1, 2024
The Kingdom Cursed by Iron (The Gold Weaver Series book 2) by Zara Storm is romantic fantasy novel. This book continues the story from where book 1 left off. I enjoyed catching up with both Ruskin and Eleanor as they went there separate ways for now. One of my things in fantasy novels is world building and I enjoyed continuing to get a look at human and fae realm in this book. The plot was creative and intriguing.
Eleanor returned home to the human realm and Ruskin stays in the Fae realm. Of course there is a need for her to return and help the Fae so back she goes. This return brings her closer to Ruskin. If only he would open up to her more. There is some steam, banter and action/adventure
I enjoyed this book and now I am impatiently waiting for book 3. Great job!
Eleanor returned home to the human realm and Ruskin stays in the Fae realm. Of course there is a need for her to return and help the Fae so back she goes. This return brings her closer to Ruskin. If only he would open up to her more. There is some steam, banter and action/adventure
I enjoyed this book and now I am impatiently waiting for book 3. Great job!
June 9, 2024
good follow up - some dragging in the plot
Back to the Gold Weaver world with the sequel - this book picks up after Eleanor fleas Ruskin and the Seelie kingdom in the night after learning that she’s been manipulated and lied to. Going home to the human world, she finds her father, but also delves into finding some answers for herself. But before long she is pulled back to the Seelie kingdom and Ruskin, needed for her power over metal to help wake the sleeping high queen. Of course the book would be too short if that was the end of it, as Ella solves one problem - a horrible plague of deadly (to Fae) cold iron starts to invade the kingdom. Eleanor is again the only one who can save the kingdom. I read the first in the series as an ARC and was unexpectedly impressed by how good it was, the writing is excellent, good characters and concepts, some spice here and there. Coming into book two, my expectations were higher, I would give this book 3.5/5⭐️. Reason being that the writing and story were good, but the conflict between Eleanor and Ruskin was just very repetitive. Frustrating almost, like you want to shake the characters. Looking forward to the third book - out later this year.
Back to the Gold Weaver world with the sequel - this book picks up after Eleanor fleas Ruskin and the Seelie kingdom in the night after learning that she’s been manipulated and lied to. Going home to the human world, she finds her father, but also delves into finding some answers for herself. But before long she is pulled back to the Seelie kingdom and Ruskin, needed for her power over metal to help wake the sleeping high queen. Of course the book would be too short if that was the end of it, as Ella solves one problem - a horrible plague of deadly (to Fae) cold iron starts to invade the kingdom. Eleanor is again the only one who can save the kingdom. I read the first in the series as an ARC and was unexpectedly impressed by how good it was, the writing is excellent, good characters and concepts, some spice here and there. Coming into book two, my expectations were higher, I would give this book 3.5/5⭐️. Reason being that the writing and story were good, but the conflict between Eleanor and Ruskin was just very repetitive. Frustrating almost, like you want to shake the characters. Looking forward to the third book - out later this year.
August 29, 2024
Eleanor´s stubbornes was annoying a lot of the time, but a good story and it kind of worked out so far, until the end, lol. Cliffhanger.
May 3, 2025
the funniest thing about the books of this trilogy is me at the 80% point doing a double take of the cover because I now understand its relevance 🫢
Read
September 15, 2024DROPPED.
Decided not to continue this because while it was engaging, and it's NOT a bad trilogy by the way, I wasn't captivated or invested any longer to continue. Book 1 was a nice ride, and it Book 2 will begin with another new problem Eleanor and Ruskin will have to overcome - whilst - trying to mend their own tattered relationship.
What was the big problem for me?
As much as I'm all for women being Ms. Independent, Competent and Willful....I found Eleanor to be quite selfish in terms of romantic relationships. Don't get me wrong, she can compassionate and kind (she did save Ruskin, and the Seelie Kingdom and later his mother), but only to others or strangers, whilst to people she cared about, they always get the short end of the stick - in a roundabout way.
What do I mean?
Well, RELATIONSHIPS are complicated, I'm sure we can all agree on that. COMPROMISE is a huge pain at times but also well worth it. For once, I could empathize with RUSKIN (the MMC) and not condemn him for being a Fae, because after Book 1 ends, it's clear that his bleeding heart was being staked through in Book 2 courtesy of Eleanor leaving him.
I have a question....
Why couldn't she just confront Ruskin about "Secrets of him knowing her mother but never mentioning it to her" instead of leaving him high and dry (pretty sure the author did that for the sake of creating a cliffhanger in Book One - which I would have appreciated had Eleanor confronted Ruskin first before leaving him - would have made better sense). It made Eleanor appeared PETTY. And yes, she was quite PETTY and a HYPOCRITE where her feelings for Ruskin are concerned.
Double standards in reverse?
She expected RUSKIN to behave in certain manners pertaining to her, expecting him to always kowtow to what she wanted without ever understanding his position or situation, whilst I'm sure he had to to do the same.
It takes two to tango.
Clearly, they both had their faults, but I was more annoyed at Eleanor for imposing her expectations on a male who was indoctrinated to behave differently from humans. How can you expect an infant to learn without teaching or guiding him/her? And she constantly assumed the worse every time Ruskin didn't let her in on something he knew.
Poor Ruskin. I'm not trying to take a side, but I can understand why he behaved or did what he did. He was a powerful male who wasn't used to answering to anyone, at least not for the last 200 years, and he once believed humans to be inferior. So, now that he's in love with a human, it would be unfair to expect him to shrug off everything he was made of - believes, prejudice, pride etc. And it WAS PAINFULLY CLEAR that he cares for Eleanor more than she did of him, and he was VERY PROTECTIVE of her. This protectiveness was a double edged sword because I can understand that when you want to protect someone, sometimes you don't tell them things for fear of reasons, and yet the protected person will misunderstand and assume you don't trust them or respect them enough - which is the case here.
OVERALL this was a bust because I couldn't stand the heroine's code of conduct or behaviour. She expected Ruskin to be THIS or THAT, to TREAT HER a certain way she demands but never has she reciprocated the standards she wanted of him. So yeah, hypocrite much?
Decided not to continue this because while it was engaging, and it's NOT a bad trilogy by the way, I wasn't captivated or invested any longer to continue. Book 1 was a nice ride, and it Book 2 will begin with another new problem Eleanor and Ruskin will have to overcome - whilst - trying to mend their own tattered relationship.
What was the big problem for me?
As much as I'm all for women being Ms. Independent, Competent and Willful....I found Eleanor to be quite selfish in terms of romantic relationships. Don't get me wrong, she can compassionate and kind (she did save Ruskin, and the Seelie Kingdom and later his mother), but only to others or strangers, whilst to people she cared about, they always get the short end of the stick - in a roundabout way.
What do I mean?
Well, RELATIONSHIPS are complicated, I'm sure we can all agree on that. COMPROMISE is a huge pain at times but also well worth it. For once, I could empathize with RUSKIN (the MMC) and not condemn him for being a Fae, because after Book 1 ends, it's clear that his bleeding heart was being staked through in Book 2 courtesy of Eleanor leaving him.
I have a question....
Why couldn't she just confront Ruskin about "Secrets of him knowing her mother but never mentioning it to her" instead of leaving him high and dry (pretty sure the author did that for the sake of creating a cliffhanger in Book One - which I would have appreciated had Eleanor confronted Ruskin first before leaving him - would have made better sense). It made Eleanor appeared PETTY. And yes, she was quite PETTY and a HYPOCRITE where her feelings for Ruskin are concerned.
Double standards in reverse?
She expected RUSKIN to behave in certain manners pertaining to her, expecting him to always kowtow to what she wanted without ever understanding his position or situation, whilst I'm sure he had to to do the same.
It takes two to tango.
Clearly, they both had their faults, but I was more annoyed at Eleanor for imposing her expectations on a male who was indoctrinated to behave differently from humans. How can you expect an infant to learn without teaching or guiding him/her? And she constantly assumed the worse every time Ruskin didn't let her in on something he knew.
Poor Ruskin. I'm not trying to take a side, but I can understand why he behaved or did what he did. He was a powerful male who wasn't used to answering to anyone, at least not for the last 200 years, and he once believed humans to be inferior. So, now that he's in love with a human, it would be unfair to expect him to shrug off everything he was made of - believes, prejudice, pride etc. And it WAS PAINFULLY CLEAR that he cares for Eleanor more than she did of him, and he was VERY PROTECTIVE of her. This protectiveness was a double edged sword because I can understand that when you want to protect someone, sometimes you don't tell them things for fear of reasons, and yet the protected person will misunderstand and assume you don't trust them or respect them enough - which is the case here.
OVERALL this was a bust because I couldn't stand the heroine's code of conduct or behaviour. She expected Ruskin to be THIS or THAT, to TREAT HER a certain way she demands but never has she reciprocated the standards she wanted of him. So yeah, hypocrite much?
October 19, 2024
I did not enjoy this.
And it had so much potential!
Here’s why I’m mad:
1. The protagonist is fucking wretched. She’s annoying and maybe it’s bc I literally do the same thing and ask a billion questions? but it’s grating when a 20-something does it. Sorry not sorry.
2. The relationship element was literally the weakest part of the story. Disregarding how fucking annoyed I am w what is essentially a Disney channel sitcom where the adults are all idiots and the main character, practically a child, is the only one who can fix everything!, these characters make no sense for each other. They don’t even seem to like each other outside of banging each other’s brains out.
3. This could have been so interesting if not for the Violet Sorrengail-level internal dialogue. Okay, nothing can be worse than the redundancy of Iron Flame, but this comes pretty damn close. If… wait wtf is her name? See? I’m so annoyed I can’t even remember. If what’s her face had a single hot take, or wasn’t, you know, a child compared to our 322-year-old (yeah. We just had to tack on those extra 22 years to make their age difference “relatable” and not hackneyed and cringey) love interest, WHO IS RUMPLESTILTSKIN BTW, perhaps I’d be more forgiving towards the idiocy of a 20-year-old.
So with that said, I made it to book two. Unsurprising, as I’ve little else better to do. This could have been so cool. I wish this was just, like, idk, less contrived?
I know I sound like a judgy, snobby, bitch when I say that, but literally give me any romantasy book, and I’ll sing the praises of it if it’s something moderately original. Even if it’s not sometimes. I’ll demand all my clients read it too.
But this left me feeling bummed that the story got lazy (I mean it already was in literally book 1 but whatever I’m still here for it), and the shitty relationship took main stage.
Also she’s a hypocrite and really shitty to the dude. I LITERALLY NEVER SAY THAT. IM MAD I FEEL THIS WAY.
… I might read book 3.
And it had so much potential!
Here’s why I’m mad:
1. The protagonist is fucking wretched. She’s annoying and maybe it’s bc I literally do the same thing and ask a billion questions? but it’s grating when a 20-something does it. Sorry not sorry.
2. The relationship element was literally the weakest part of the story. Disregarding how fucking annoyed I am w what is essentially a Disney channel sitcom where the adults are all idiots and the main character, practically a child, is the only one who can fix everything!, these characters make no sense for each other. They don’t even seem to like each other outside of banging each other’s brains out.
3. This could have been so interesting if not for the Violet Sorrengail-level internal dialogue. Okay, nothing can be worse than the redundancy of Iron Flame, but this comes pretty damn close. If… wait wtf is her name? See? I’m so annoyed I can’t even remember. If what’s her face had a single hot take, or wasn’t, you know, a child compared to our 322-year-old (yeah. We just had to tack on those extra 22 years to make their age difference “relatable” and not hackneyed and cringey) love interest, WHO IS RUMPLESTILTSKIN BTW, perhaps I’d be more forgiving towards the idiocy of a 20-year-old.
So with that said, I made it to book two. Unsurprising, as I’ve little else better to do. This could have been so cool. I wish this was just, like, idk, less contrived?
I know I sound like a judgy, snobby, bitch when I say that, but literally give me any romantasy book, and I’ll sing the praises of it if it’s something moderately original. Even if it’s not sometimes. I’ll demand all my clients read it too.
But this left me feeling bummed that the story got lazy (I mean it already was in literally book 1 but whatever I’m still here for it), and the shitty relationship took main stage.
Also she’s a hypocrite and really shitty to the dude. I LITERALLY NEVER SAY THAT. IM MAD I FEEL THIS WAY.
… I might read book 3.
September 4, 2024
The beginning of the book was good, the end was good (some parts) but the middle just felt like… felt like the author wrote the first part and last part and then was like hmm how do i combine the two and put it in chatgbt. Like theres this whole conversation when they r in the woods on the way to the unseelie kingdom that makes literally no sense. Like i felt like I just had deja vu but also like 180 the answers. Also the prince just kinda sucks, like he doesn’t really do anything during the book that inspires. He just kinda keeps secrets, is vague even when he doesn’t need to be, and then cue smut scene. It just falls flat. I feel like the main character is literallly carrying the entire story on her back. Everyone else is kinda flat. Her character is the only one with a little growth and depth. Im sad one of their friends died, the woman swordsman main guard lady, but it did make the scene have more emotion since she saved them. But also.. at this point… so many of their problems would be solved if the main girl would just kill her enemies, but shes giving hella batman vibes. Theres a lot going on in the plot sense, but not a lot going on in the character development sense.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 28, 2024
I was lucky enough to get an Arc of this book. Part 2 of the series dives more into the fantasy aspect of Eleanor and Ruskin. I found this book to be challenging to read through it. Eleanor spends the majority of the book upset with Rus because of all his secrets. It's a lot less steamy compared to the first book. I, personally, did not find anything dark in this book. It's more of a fantasy novel.
If you are more into the fantasy aspects, this book maybe for you. You never know unless you give it a try.
If you are more into the fantasy aspects, this book maybe for you. You never know unless you give it a try.
May 16, 2025
DETAILED REVIEW
⭐️/ DNF
🌶🌶
Single POV
TROPES
🗡Quests
⛓️Magic training
👑Royal intrigue
😈He falls first
🖤Curse
🔮prophecy
Audio book was better as the narrator did a really good job with poor writing.
This book just fell flat right from the start for me. The author doesnt show us the story, she instead tells us everything, and then goes over it again to make sure we work out whats happening next. I made it to 88%, then the choice that was made after the twist just slammed the coffin shut as it was one too many contradictions at that point.
Speaking of contradictions, he didn't chase after her - then she is angry about it but then not angry and then angry again... she chooses to go back then wants to come home then wants to stay... she gives him the cold shoulder and is then angry that he won't open up to her, and then she keeps secrets while she's mad at him for keeping secrets...
So yer, the contradictions in this are insufferable!
At first, I could get into the storyline, but after the initial mystery , the plot severely drags on and then deviates off to various other subplots, and the pacing is so slow! This whole book could have been cut down to become the intro of the next book.
The characters are all underdeveloped and are very one dimensional, for example:
Destan - basically just likes clothes and only talks about fashion; he is a best friend and confidant, but you never get any of that side of him, or any background or any depth what so ever. All the side characters are like this, they have 1 job to do in the story, and that's that, no background or layers required.
The biggest problem i couldn't get past was the relationship between the fmc Eleanor and mmc Ruskin.
I was not invested in their romance because the MMC did not seem willing to change or even begin to try to understand his love but instead tried to control and manipulate her and the FMC was so Hypocritical and again not willing to compromise. If the roles were reversed, women would be up in arms over the way she treats him! And not in a dark sexy way but a spoiled brat whingey way. She goes from loving him but can’t be with him in, then she is kissing him and desire is flaring up, back to angry but the monologue runs on and on about how much she craves his touch and misses his body. The whiplash from it all is painful!
I got quite far in as I was doing a read along with the audio book. If I had been reading this, I would have dnf a lot sooner! I'm annoyed that everything is extremely spelt out for you and even reiterated, so there's no excitement or forboding.
That whole ‘trial scene’ was really underwhelming, I expected a big twist at that point or some revealed secret or something. It was completely pointless to the story.
I will not be reading or listening to the next book.
*************
My Rating Systems:
⭐️ DNF Did not finish
⭐️⭐️
I managed to finish it but it was rubbish. I won't keep a physical copy and won't recommend it, but it's a shame as the plot could have made a good book in another authors hands
⭐️⭐️.5
It was OK. I wish i didn't start this one as It didn't do it for me as I struggled to read it. It had an interesting premise that fell flat but I had to see what happened in the end.
⭐️⭐️⭐️
I don't regret reading it, and I will read the next one, but this one did have a few flaws. [These could be repetative writing, gaps or plot holes, better character growth or world building, areas needing more detail]
Generally, the book lacked depth and became confusing. The plot resonated with me even though it annoyed me on the whole.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
I'm glad I read it. I enjoyed it and would recommend it to the right people but I wanted more! Sadly, it's easily forgettable with a few issues I just couldn't overlook/get past.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Good book! I loved it, but... I needed more! I really did enjoy it, but it had a few parts that needed more detail or added history/background or lore. But that's because the story or characters were memorable, and the plot was strong with brilliant twists. I would re-read if I needed to catch up for the next book and would recommend.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Great book! I truly wish the story had been thought about more, or the author had been given more time as this book is so close to brilliance! I will likely read again and will definitely be recommending to all!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
WOW! Absolutely amazing book! Well written with great characters and a plot so memorable that it will stay with me. I will definitely read this again, I will be recommending it and sharing it with the whole world! Also- I NEED A PHYSICAL COPY!
🌶️🌶️– a lot of sexual language and some on-page open door action, may be occurring a couple of times
⭐️/ DNF
🌶🌶
Single POV
TROPES
🗡Quests
⛓️Magic training
👑Royal intrigue
😈He falls first
🖤Curse
🔮prophecy
Audio book was better as the narrator did a really good job with poor writing.
This book just fell flat right from the start for me. The author doesnt show us the story, she instead tells us everything, and then goes over it again to make sure we work out whats happening next. I made it to 88%, then the choice that was made after the twist just slammed the coffin shut as it was one too many contradictions at that point.
Speaking of contradictions, he didn't chase after her - then she is angry about it but then not angry and then angry again... she chooses to go back then wants to come home then wants to stay... she gives him the cold shoulder and is then angry that he won't open up to her, and then she keeps secrets while she's mad at him for keeping secrets...
So yer, the contradictions in this are insufferable!
At first, I could get into the storyline, but after the initial mystery , the plot severely drags on and then deviates off to various other subplots, and the pacing is so slow! This whole book could have been cut down to become the intro of the next book.
The characters are all underdeveloped and are very one dimensional, for example:
Destan - basically just likes clothes and only talks about fashion; he is a best friend and confidant, but you never get any of that side of him, or any background or any depth what so ever. All the side characters are like this, they have 1 job to do in the story, and that's that, no background or layers required.
The biggest problem i couldn't get past was the relationship between the fmc Eleanor and mmc Ruskin.
I was not invested in their romance because the MMC did not seem willing to change or even begin to try to understand his love but instead tried to control and manipulate her and the FMC was so Hypocritical and again not willing to compromise. If the roles were reversed, women would be up in arms over the way she treats him! And not in a dark sexy way but a spoiled brat whingey way. She goes from loving him but can’t be with him in, then she is kissing him and desire is flaring up, back to angry but the monologue runs on and on about how much she craves his touch and misses his body. The whiplash from it all is painful!
I got quite far in as I was doing a read along with the audio book. If I had been reading this, I would have dnf a lot sooner! I'm annoyed that everything is extremely spelt out for you and even reiterated, so there's no excitement or forboding.
That whole ‘trial scene’ was really underwhelming, I expected a big twist at that point or some revealed secret or something. It was completely pointless to the story.
I will not be reading or listening to the next book.
*************
My Rating Systems:
⭐️ DNF Did not finish
⭐️⭐️
I managed to finish it but it was rubbish. I won't keep a physical copy and won't recommend it, but it's a shame as the plot could have made a good book in another authors hands
⭐️⭐️.5
It was OK. I wish i didn't start this one as It didn't do it for me as I struggled to read it. It had an interesting premise that fell flat but I had to see what happened in the end.
⭐️⭐️⭐️
I don't regret reading it, and I will read the next one, but this one did have a few flaws. [These could be repetative writing, gaps or plot holes, better character growth or world building, areas needing more detail]
Generally, the book lacked depth and became confusing. The plot resonated with me even though it annoyed me on the whole.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
I'm glad I read it. I enjoyed it and would recommend it to the right people but I wanted more! Sadly, it's easily forgettable with a few issues I just couldn't overlook/get past.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Good book! I loved it, but... I needed more! I really did enjoy it, but it had a few parts that needed more detail or added history/background or lore. But that's because the story or characters were memorable, and the plot was strong with brilliant twists. I would re-read if I needed to catch up for the next book and would recommend.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Great book! I truly wish the story had been thought about more, or the author had been given more time as this book is so close to brilliance! I will likely read again and will definitely be recommending to all!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
WOW! Absolutely amazing book! Well written with great characters and a plot so memorable that it will stay with me. I will definitely read this again, I will be recommending it and sharing it with the whole world! Also- I NEED A PHYSICAL COPY!
🌶️🌶️– a lot of sexual language and some on-page open door action, may be occurring a couple of times
June 10, 2024
This is book 2 in a trilogy, and i had an absolute blast reading it!! It followed on instantly from where book 1 ended, where she left Ruskin after he revealed a lot about himself (a lot of bad, a little good). I was left thinking that they were gonna figure it all out and be together all the way, but as soon as she realised just how many secrets he was keeping from her she was out of there... Cant say i really blame her.
Speaking of this book though, everything moved so quickly! There was hardly any time between when she left Ruskin and the faerie realm to reunite with her father again, and then Ruskin tracking her down and asking for her help again. Seems like there is always a problem in his realm that only she can fix. I really did like just how short their time apart was, i'm a sucker for forced proximity and the fact that they had to work together again (even if they didn't want to) was everything to me!!
Ella's magic keeps growing, or rather she learns how to harness it with help from Ruskin and other that are a part of his court. It's been really interesting seeing her progression and thinking that she was just a talented blacksmith and metallurgist, to realising that she is more like the fae than she wants to be. I'm really glad too just how much of a strong and driven character she is, the fact that she decided to use this magic to her advantage instead of hating having it was fab!
I really liked just how much the story progressed in this book too! Usually not a lot happens in the second book in a series, or its all relationship angst between the two main characters, politics, or unnecessary plot/world building before everything happens in the final book.
Loads is happening in the wider world, not just where the main characters are. This made for a lot of confusing moments where i wasn't sure what was happening, or was going to happen, but things are explained almost perfectly right at the end of the book, or little clues are given away throughout too which was fun to read. I loved just how in the dark we were about certain things, just like the majority of characters.
I also really appreciated that this wasn't all about their relationship, or lack there of. They each got some really cool character growth, and growth that actually made sense to them individually.
Ella learns probably the most (to be expected, she is really going through it in this book). There are the revelations that she has magic, a true name, what actually happened to her mum, and who Ruskin really is to her) and it all seemed to really shape her for the better. I think she got a lot of much needed closure, and hopefully in the next book she will really step into her own and take more control of what she is being forced to go through (also hope that they both get a happy ending after all the shit they have been through together)
Ruskin on the other hand got nothing but the short straw in this book. All the struggles of loving a human who doesn't love or trust him back, his court falling apart right in front of him, and his mother being completely different to how he remembers her!
Speaking of his mother, that was a development i really didn't see coming at all, and i felt so freaking stupid when everything was revealed! I wasn't expecting her whole character to change out of no where, and seeing her de-evolve into this murderous, power hungry, revengeful ex-queen was something else!
The ending was so intense and an emotional roller coaster because of this. I would love to say that it didn't end on a massive cliffhanger, but i would then be lying through my teeth. It was so intense and full on, and i low key hated how it ended, but only because of the fact that i have to wait to read how everything is going to shake down in the final book. I cannot wait!!
Speaking of how devastating of an ending it was, i am really glad, if not heartbroken, that they resolved their issues and confessed their love for each other right before they were ripped apart again. The author is nothing if not ruthless in the best way possible. I already know that book 3 is going to be too much to handle, but i am so ready for it!!
A massive thank you to Netgalley and the author for giving me the chance (yet again) to read this book! I enjoyed it so freaking much!!
Speaking of this book though, everything moved so quickly! There was hardly any time between when she left Ruskin and the faerie realm to reunite with her father again, and then Ruskin tracking her down and asking for her help again. Seems like there is always a problem in his realm that only she can fix. I really did like just how short their time apart was, i'm a sucker for forced proximity and the fact that they had to work together again (even if they didn't want to) was everything to me!!
Ella's magic keeps growing, or rather she learns how to harness it with help from Ruskin and other that are a part of his court. It's been really interesting seeing her progression and thinking that she was just a talented blacksmith and metallurgist, to realising that she is more like the fae than she wants to be. I'm really glad too just how much of a strong and driven character she is, the fact that she decided to use this magic to her advantage instead of hating having it was fab!
I really liked just how much the story progressed in this book too! Usually not a lot happens in the second book in a series, or its all relationship angst between the two main characters, politics, or unnecessary plot/world building before everything happens in the final book.
Loads is happening in the wider world, not just where the main characters are. This made for a lot of confusing moments where i wasn't sure what was happening, or was going to happen, but things are explained almost perfectly right at the end of the book, or little clues are given away throughout too which was fun to read. I loved just how in the dark we were about certain things, just like the majority of characters.
I also really appreciated that this wasn't all about their relationship, or lack there of. They each got some really cool character growth, and growth that actually made sense to them individually.
Ella learns probably the most (to be expected, she is really going through it in this book). There are the revelations that she has magic, a true name, what actually happened to her mum, and who Ruskin really is to her) and it all seemed to really shape her for the better. I think she got a lot of much needed closure, and hopefully in the next book she will really step into her own and take more control of what she is being forced to go through (also hope that they both get a happy ending after all the shit they have been through together)
Ruskin on the other hand got nothing but the short straw in this book. All the struggles of loving a human who doesn't love or trust him back, his court falling apart right in front of him, and his mother being completely different to how he remembers her!
Speaking of his mother, that was a development i really didn't see coming at all, and i felt so freaking stupid when everything was revealed! I wasn't expecting her whole character to change out of no where, and seeing her de-evolve into this murderous, power hungry, revengeful ex-queen was something else!
The ending was so intense and an emotional roller coaster because of this. I would love to say that it didn't end on a massive cliffhanger, but i would then be lying through my teeth. It was so intense and full on, and i low key hated how it ended, but only because of the fact that i have to wait to read how everything is going to shake down in the final book. I cannot wait!!
Speaking of how devastating of an ending it was, i am really glad, if not heartbroken, that they resolved their issues and confessed their love for each other right before they were ripped apart again. The author is nothing if not ruthless in the best way possible. I already know that book 3 is going to be too much to handle, but i am so ready for it!!
A massive thank you to Netgalley and the author for giving me the chance (yet again) to read this book! I enjoyed it so freaking much!!
January 14, 2025
This is the 2nd book in the Gold Weaver series. I was glad that I could start The Kingdom Cursed By Iron right after I finished the first book after the cliffhanger. And I was really happy to see that this book picked up right where the first book left off. I was surprised to see that things are only intensifying and honestly getting more complicated between Ruskin and Eleanor. And now we find out there is a new evil that is now threatening the Seelie court. It appears that only Eleanor can stop it, and she can probably only stop it with Ruskin's help.
There were a few things that I really enjoyed in this 2nd book, Eleanor coming into her own and gaining control over her own magic. I loved seeing her confidence in herself grow, especially as she was learning to control her magic and fight for herself and defend herself. I really loved that she didn't act like she was already a fighter and a know it all. I loved how stubborn, brilliant, dedicated, willing, and determined she was. It really helped me to relate to her more. And then the twist at the end, wow, I was not expecting that. I never saw that ending coming.
I do wish Zara had slowed the pacing a bit. It just felt a bit too fast. I felt like I was running through this book, and it felt off. The entire pacing just felt wrong. I wish I could have gotten to see more of the sword training that Eleanor received from Halima. I adored those scenes. The last thing that I felt was wrong with this book was the ending. It all felt wrong in the pacing again. I felt like the pacing was pumped up at the end from a run to a marathon, and there were things that were missed. I felt like I was in the middle of a page, and I had to go back and figure out if I had missed something because it felt wrong and missed.
I know the series is quick paced. This book was just a bit quicker paced than I would have liked. And this ending was just pumped up too much in speed, and yet I still really enjoyed it. And I can't wait to dive face first into book 3!!
There were a few things that I really enjoyed in this 2nd book, Eleanor coming into her own and gaining control over her own magic. I loved seeing her confidence in herself grow, especially as she was learning to control her magic and fight for herself and defend herself. I really loved that she didn't act like she was already a fighter and a know it all. I loved how stubborn, brilliant, dedicated, willing, and determined she was. It really helped me to relate to her more. And then the twist at the end, wow, I was not expecting that. I never saw that ending coming.
I do wish Zara had slowed the pacing a bit. It just felt a bit too fast. I felt like I was running through this book, and it felt off. The entire pacing just felt wrong. I wish I could have gotten to see more of the sword training that Eleanor received from Halima. I adored those scenes. The last thing that I felt was wrong with this book was the ending. It all felt wrong in the pacing again. I felt like the pacing was pumped up at the end from a run to a marathon, and there were things that were missed. I felt like I was in the middle of a page, and I had to go back and figure out if I had missed something because it felt wrong and missed.
I know the series is quick paced. This book was just a bit quicker paced than I would have liked. And this ending was just pumped up too much in speed, and yet I still really enjoyed it. And I can't wait to dive face first into book 3!!
July 3, 2024
I received an ARC of this book from Relay Publishing on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
⭐️⭐️⭐️.75 stars
🌶️🌶️ spice
What to Expect:
🌹Rumplestiltskin retelling
🌹Fae x Human (who also has powers)
🌹Magic x Alchemy
🌹Enemies to lovers
🌹Fated mates
So far this series has been really good! I love the take on Rumplestiltskin, which isn’t a very common retelling you see in the Romantasy genre.
The plot pace definitely picked up towards the end, there was a bit of repetitive setup with the iron “incidents” to begin with and tension filled moments that then felt like they didn’t progress anywhere - but I promise it comes good in the end!
Loved getting to go to the Unseelie court - that whole part of the book was great, and can’t wait to see them spend more time there because the Seelie court sucks honestly.
There was definitely a lot I liked, particularly the twist which I cannot believe I didn’t see coming. It was, however, missing the level of romantic tension I felt in the first book. At first, the angst was angsting and some moments were so heart wrenching, but then I became quite frustrated with Eleanor about 2/3 of the way through for being so sanctimonious and flip flopping around with her feelings in her internal monologue.
You’d get to a point where you thought she’d change her mind and jump all over Ruskin and then just go back to being annoying in the next sentence, which made her sort of unlikeable for a while.
That part was what I think contributed to it suffering a bit of mid-series slump, where it’s sort of a means to an end for setting up the big finale, and it was mostly because their relationship just felt “stuck” but only by her choice.
It was so close to 4 stars for me honestly. I really hope in the next book they get to have their full on, fully fledged romance and devour each other already. I’m here for it…the spice in these books is so hot 🥵
⭐️⭐️⭐️.75 stars
🌶️🌶️ spice
What to Expect:
🌹Rumplestiltskin retelling
🌹Fae x Human (who also has powers)
🌹Magic x Alchemy
🌹Enemies to lovers
🌹Fated mates
“It’s different, Ella, because even if I cannot have you, I cannot have a world without you in it.”
I’m still haunted by the ghost of how he made me feel—safe, loved.
So far this series has been really good! I love the take on Rumplestiltskin, which isn’t a very common retelling you see in the Romantasy genre.
The plot pace definitely picked up towards the end, there was a bit of repetitive setup with the iron “incidents” to begin with and tension filled moments that then felt like they didn’t progress anywhere - but I promise it comes good in the end!
Loved getting to go to the Unseelie court - that whole part of the book was great, and can’t wait to see them spend more time there because the Seelie court sucks honestly.
There was definitely a lot I liked, particularly the twist which I cannot believe I didn’t see coming. It was, however, missing the level of romantic tension I felt in the first book. At first, the angst was angsting and some moments were so heart wrenching, but then I became quite frustrated with Eleanor about 2/3 of the way through for being so sanctimonious and flip flopping around with her feelings in her internal monologue.
You’d get to a point where you thought she’d change her mind and jump all over Ruskin and then just go back to being annoying in the next sentence, which made her sort of unlikeable for a while.
That part was what I think contributed to it suffering a bit of mid-series slump, where it’s sort of a means to an end for setting up the big finale, and it was mostly because their relationship just felt “stuck” but only by her choice.
It was so close to 4 stars for me honestly. I really hope in the next book they get to have their full on, fully fledged romance and devour each other already. I’m here for it…the spice in these books is so hot 🥵
March 20, 2025
And of course Ruskin convinces Eleanor to return to the Seelie Court after she’s finally managed to escape from both it and him.
Promises made are unlikely to be kept in the way Eleanor and her father thought as Eleanor now is asked to take her ability to work gold and turn it towards freeing Ruskin’s mother who has been held for over 200 years in a deep sleep until she can be freed from the iron poisoning her entire being. But iron is not gold and Eleanor will be hard pressed to not only find a way to free the sleeping queen, but to save the kingdom from assaults of cold iron spewing from the ground, killing those it comes into contact with.
Still unable to trust Ruskin due to his many secrets, Eleanor is forced to stay closer than she wants as she strives to not fall back into love with the man she has sworn to keep as far away from as possible.
Yay, more Destan! He is still stealing every scene with his wit and outrageous fashion sense and I adored every moment we get with him… should have been more… but I’ll take what I can. Luckily, this book leaves us on a cliffhanger that promises more Destan in the trilogy finale, so it is off I go!
Plenty of twists and turns (even ones I didn’t see coming, which is always nice). We have a kingdom in chaos as the Seelie Court has no idea that Ruskin is actually the King, since his mother has been in slumber and everything seems out of balance. Can Eleanor find the trust to tell Ruskin her greatest secret in order to help heal the land, or will she only find more betrayal?
Got to read to find out! But I like that both characters seems to have grown during their brief parting. Eleanor isn’t as blindly trusting and Ruskin seems to finally realize he’s underestimated Eleanor and just what her departure meant to him.
Promises made are unlikely to be kept in the way Eleanor and her father thought as Eleanor now is asked to take her ability to work gold and turn it towards freeing Ruskin’s mother who has been held for over 200 years in a deep sleep until she can be freed from the iron poisoning her entire being. But iron is not gold and Eleanor will be hard pressed to not only find a way to free the sleeping queen, but to save the kingdom from assaults of cold iron spewing from the ground, killing those it comes into contact with.
Still unable to trust Ruskin due to his many secrets, Eleanor is forced to stay closer than she wants as she strives to not fall back into love with the man she has sworn to keep as far away from as possible.
Yay, more Destan! He is still stealing every scene with his wit and outrageous fashion sense and I adored every moment we get with him… should have been more… but I’ll take what I can. Luckily, this book leaves us on a cliffhanger that promises more Destan in the trilogy finale, so it is off I go!
Plenty of twists and turns (even ones I didn’t see coming, which is always nice). We have a kingdom in chaos as the Seelie Court has no idea that Ruskin is actually the King, since his mother has been in slumber and everything seems out of balance. Can Eleanor find the trust to tell Ruskin her greatest secret in order to help heal the land, or will she only find more betrayal?
Got to read to find out! But I like that both characters seems to have grown during their brief parting. Eleanor isn’t as blindly trusting and Ruskin seems to finally realize he’s underestimated Eleanor and just what her departure meant to him.
June 8, 2024
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 🌶️🌶️
While I definitely enjoyed and liked the first book, I absolutely LOVED this second one, and I cannot wait for the 3rd to come out!
My heart is in my throat with the cliffhanger and the anticipation for book three might just kill me.
This book was perfectly paced and even though I wished there was a little more spice, there was still the perfect amount for this story.
I love watching the relationship between Eleanor and Ruskin develop and evolve throughout this story. Not going to lie though, the slow burn of this series was causing me to grow impatient.
Eleanor had me screaming at her several times to basically pull her head out of her ass 🤣
But ultimately, that's why I read these kids of books, the torture of the slow burn is something I live for.
While I thought the last 10% of the first book was clumsily rushed, this book was perfectly paced and nothing felt like it was overly rushed or thrown into the story on a whim.
So far, this is the best book in the series for me and I truly could not put it down!
Side note: Destan is seriously one of the best supporting/ side characters. I'm in love with him and his attitude and sassy banter.
I could get onboard to read a spin-off about him 🤣
All I know is Ruskin and Eleanor better get a HEA when this series is over, because I'm well invested in them and their relationship... Don't f*ck this up Eleanor!! 🤬
Tropes:
- Enemies to Lovers
- Touch Her and 💀
- SLOW BURN ❤️🔥
- Rumpelstiltskin Inspired
- Fated Mates
- Morally Grey MMC
- Cursed Kingdom
- True Names, Hidden Identities
- Found Family
- Fae Bargains and Bonds
While I definitely enjoyed and liked the first book, I absolutely LOVED this second one, and I cannot wait for the 3rd to come out!
My heart is in my throat with the cliffhanger and the anticipation for book three might just kill me.
This book was perfectly paced and even though I wished there was a little more spice, there was still the perfect amount for this story.
I love watching the relationship between Eleanor and Ruskin develop and evolve throughout this story. Not going to lie though, the slow burn of this series was causing me to grow impatient.
Eleanor had me screaming at her several times to basically pull her head out of her ass 🤣
But ultimately, that's why I read these kids of books, the torture of the slow burn is something I live for.
While I thought the last 10% of the first book was clumsily rushed, this book was perfectly paced and nothing felt like it was overly rushed or thrown into the story on a whim.
So far, this is the best book in the series for me and I truly could not put it down!
Side note: Destan is seriously one of the best supporting/ side characters. I'm in love with him and his attitude and sassy banter.
I could get onboard to read a spin-off about him 🤣
All I know is Ruskin and Eleanor better get a HEA when this series is over, because I'm well invested in them and their relationship... Don't f*ck this up Eleanor!! 🤬
Tropes:
- Enemies to Lovers
- Touch Her and 💀
- SLOW BURN ❤️🔥
- Rumpelstiltskin Inspired
- Fated Mates
- Morally Grey MMC
- Cursed Kingdom
- True Names, Hidden Identities
- Found Family
- Fae Bargains and Bonds
July 3, 2024
So. Eleanor left her sexy fae prince. She decided she just couldn’t take how many secrets he was keeping from her. Sure he couldn’t lie. But avoiding answering was getting old. So she dipped. She came home, and not even 48hrs after arriving home after her 2 week trek, he turns back up. “Hey look I kinda still need your help” Eleanor wants nothing to do with Ruskin no matter how much she loves him but she’s too kind hearted and goes back with him. “Sorry dad I promise to come back” She found some secrets of her own while she was home, but now it’s her turn to keep it to herself, while he tries to slowly open back up to her. He helps her learn her magic, she succeeds at reviving his mom, but then the kingdom is still somehow under attack? She tries to leave but on their way out they get pulled back because SHE is the only one who can idk sort of stop it? All while fighting not to fall back in love with the man keeping so many important secrets still.
I loved this. It was action packed from the first chapter. Eleanor’s wit and humor just got better and better. So many parts made me laugh, while a handful actually made me sob. We got more character development, more world building, and more secrets. I spent a lot of this book wondering who the villain was going to be, and the closer I got the more I sort of started to suspect, but not until RIGHT before they showed it. This book was a wild ride of emotions and if I could give it more than 5stars I would. I will not be patiently impatiently waiting for book 3.
I loved this. It was action packed from the first chapter. Eleanor’s wit and humor just got better and better. So many parts made me laugh, while a handful actually made me sob. We got more character development, more world building, and more secrets. I spent a lot of this book wondering who the villain was going to be, and the closer I got the more I sort of started to suspect, but not until RIGHT before they showed it. This book was a wild ride of emotions and if I could give it more than 5stars I would. I will not be patiently impatiently waiting for book 3.
May 31, 2025
DNF 67%. I tried. Honestly, it had an interesting head start and the plot got deeper and it had pretty good potential, but the FMC really annoyed me. And it’s all in her POV! She expected Ruskin to change his personality and flaws instantly, yet didn’t change hers. She’s so hot and cold with him it will drive you crazy. One moment she allows him to kiss her and the next she pushes away like girl if you want to send a clear message, don’t kiss him at all! And the audacity to keep something from him (their soulmate bond) when she wanted him to be completely honest with her was the sprinkle on top. I was raging and pulling my hair out having to read more inner dialogue from this bitch. The only good thing about her is her compassion.
Ruskin is also so bland and just like barely any magical vibes and hot daddy vibes it’s just meh. And all the side characters (with barely any depth and background in the first place) just faded into the background except one.
The fmc has like no friends besides maybe Ruskin. She has no special connection to anyone and it’s like romance is all that matters to her. While her powers are certainly interesting, it’s so slow in developing. In fact don’t even get me started on how she’s basically holding the whole plot on her shoulders.
Ruskin is only overprotective of her when she’s like gonna faint or hurt but then casually lets the fate of his court totally on her like tf???? Why not you take your seelie- half unseelie ass back into your court and stop bothering our bitch. (would be queen if she wasn’t dislikable)
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Ruskin is also so bland and just like barely any magical vibes and hot daddy vibes it’s just meh. And all the side characters (with barely any depth and background in the first place) just faded into the background except one.
The fmc has like no friends besides maybe Ruskin. She has no special connection to anyone and it’s like romance is all that matters to her. While her powers are certainly interesting, it’s so slow in developing. In fact don’t even get me started on how she’s basically holding the whole plot on her shoulders.
Ruskin is only overprotective of her when she’s like gonna faint or hurt but then casually lets the fate of his court totally on her like tf???? Why not you take your seelie- half unseelie ass back into your court and stop bothering our bitch. (would be queen if she wasn’t dislikable)
⭐️⭐️⭐️
July 1, 2024
I want to start off by saying thank you to netgalley, the publishers and Zara Storm for an opportunity to read this story!
That being said I have to admit I DNF’d this book at about the 60% mark. I enjoyed book one, the tension, the build up, the drama and the characters all the way up till that final betrayal. And was eager to dive into The Kingdom Cursed by Iron, and while I loved the plot and was invested in not only what was going on with the newfound iron problem but also what was going on with the Queen. I just couldn’t get invested in our Main Characters this time around. For me personally I think it was because I felt like romance wise we were reliving the first book where the characters were still getting to know each other, and still at the beginning of their enemies-to-lovers stage rather than progressing forward in their relationship. There was also to much back and forth of the main FMC saying she still loved him but didn’t want to love him but still doing things to prove she loved him, it just came off a bit confusing and indecisive to me which continued to pull me out of the story. I also personally thought this story would benefit from Ruskins POV to give readers a glimpse into his mind as everything seemed a bit wishy washy with him. Overall I did enjoy the plot of this story and recommend it to anyone who was looking for a plot centric read over a character driven read.
That being said I have to admit I DNF’d this book at about the 60% mark. I enjoyed book one, the tension, the build up, the drama and the characters all the way up till that final betrayal. And was eager to dive into The Kingdom Cursed by Iron, and while I loved the plot and was invested in not only what was going on with the newfound iron problem but also what was going on with the Queen. I just couldn’t get invested in our Main Characters this time around. For me personally I think it was because I felt like romance wise we were reliving the first book where the characters were still getting to know each other, and still at the beginning of their enemies-to-lovers stage rather than progressing forward in their relationship. There was also to much back and forth of the main FMC saying she still loved him but didn’t want to love him but still doing things to prove she loved him, it just came off a bit confusing and indecisive to me which continued to pull me out of the story. I also personally thought this story would benefit from Ruskins POV to give readers a glimpse into his mind as everything seemed a bit wishy washy with him. Overall I did enjoy the plot of this story and recommend it to anyone who was looking for a plot centric read over a character driven read.
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