A prophecy. A ruthless queen. Three hot fae males. And Luxe, in between them all.
After her parents’ mysterious disappearance and the recent loss of her aunt, Luxe is determined to keep her aunt’s business alive and finish grad school, even as grief threatens to pull her under.
But when a dangerously handsome stranger appears with secrets about her family and her past, Luxe’s life is thrown into chaos. Her dormant magic awakens, a deadly prophecy is unleashed, and the queen of the fae sets her sights on the halfling who should never have existed.
On the run and hunted through realms, Luxe finds herself relying on three powerful fae males, each protective, tempting, and hiding wounds of their own. Between the banter, the battles, and never having enough beds, sparks start to burn.
This is her destiny. Their fight. Where falling for one might mean losing them all.
Luxe in Quest is a slow-burn, Why Choose romantasy filled with danger, desire, and destiny. In true slow-burn fashion, the series gets progressively spicier, with book three being the spiciest. Expect three swoon-worthy fae males, heartbreak and healing, found family, and one bed too many times to be coincidence. Perfect for fans of A Court of Thorns and Roses and The Serpent and the Wings of Night.
Wow - what an amazing read! I ate this book up! From the first chapter I was pulled in and couldn’t put it down. This book has a bit of everything - beautiful world building, an action fueled plot, magic, found family, and why choose vibes from 3 hot fae; what more could you want?! I fell in love with the characters in this story and I cannot wait to see what the future holds for them in the coming books.
"Lux in Between" by Cara Blaine took me on a breathtaking journey that I won't soon forget. From the moment I cracked open the ARC, I was swept away by Luxe's captivating story of self-discovery and the allure of the fae world.
As I followed Luxe's journey, one character in particular stole my heart: Søren. Despite his gruff exterior and occasional grumpiness, there was something about him that drew me in. His mysterious aura and unwavering loyalty to Luxe made him my favorite character, and I found myself eagerly anticipating every scene he graced with his presence.
But it wasn't just Søren's charm that captured my attention; it was the complexity of his character and the layers of depth that Blaine masterfully wove into his storyline. Watching him navigate the challenges of his past and his growing connection to Luxe was a rollercoaster of emotions that kept me glued to the page.
In the end, "Lux in Between" isn't just a book; it's an immersive experience that left me craving more. And while I can't wait to see where Luxe's journey takes her next, I'll always hold a special place in my heart for Søren and the indelible mark he left on this enchanting tale.
I really enjoyed this read! We follow Luxe, who is suddenly thrust into a whole new world after the passing of her Aunt. She meets 3 handsome Fae who help her navigate through these changes. There is some tension, flirting and banter between Luxe and the 3 MMC's. I loved the diverse cast of characters and their growth and development. Even though it is predominantly Fae based, each character has their own unique story and personality.
It is well paced with action and a well written, descriptive plot that was not overwhelming.
I can't wait to read the next book and see where these loveable characters end up next!
I read this book as an ARC and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
I was given an ARC of this book. My review is completely voluntary.
I really enjoyed this book The pacing on it is great, lots of action, but with plenty of world building still happening.
Luxe is a great FMC who shows growth throughout the story.
Our 3, yes 3 MMC's are swoon worthy. Especially Calix 😍.
The story begins with tragedy, goes immediately into action, some world building, throw in one bed, throw in some why choose, some found family, boom tragedy again, and ends with some decision time.
There is a little bit of spice which I enjoyed. I will definitely be reading the rest of this series.
**I received this as an ARC from Cara Blaine. This in no way impacts my opinion of or ratings for this book.**
"Luxe's Lullaby Trilogy" follows Niamh 'Luxe' Finnegan, who inherits her aunt's store after losing her last family member to cancer. When a stranger named Sören reveals truths about her parents and her dormant magical abilities, Luxe's life takes a drastic turn. Fleeing with Sören and two high fae, Alistair and Calix, Luxe embarks on a dangerous journey to unlock her magical potential, unravel a prophecy, and evade the fae queen's pursuit.
In the first book of the trilogy, Luxe must come to terms with her heritage and navigate her burgeoning powers to protect herself and the only family she has left, while also unraveling the mysteries surrounding her past. Along the way, expect a why chose, slow-burn romance with plenty of witty banter and heart-pounding moments. It's a fast-paced fantasy romance that is worth reading.
Rating: 1. **Plot and Storytelling:** 4/5 The plot is well-crafted and thoughtfully executed, providing an adventurous journey that keeps readers engaged. While enjoyable, I would have liked to see a few more twists to further enhance the excitement.
2. **Characterization:** 5/5 The characters are beautifully developed, each possessing depth and individuality. Their authentic dynamics and interpersonal relationships add layers to the romance, making it compelling and believable.
3. **Writing Style:** 4.5/5 Cara Blaine's writing style is captivating, seamlessly blending an intricate fantasy world with our reality. However, there were moments when the pace slowed down to a medium, which slightly detracted from the overall fast-paced experience.
4. **Originality:** 4/5 The book presents a fresh and unique world, featuring characters and relationships that stand out. It follows a familiar narrative of a young protagonist fueled by tragedy on a journey of self-discovery and revolution while feeling like a fresh and brand-new story.
5. **Emotional Impact and Resolution:** 5/5 This rollercoaster of a book evokes a range of emotions, from heart-tugging moments to anger and laughter. The satisfying conclusion ties up loose ends while leaving room for anticipation of the next installment, ensuring a memorable reading experience.
Overall rating: 4.5/5
I do recommend that you purchase this book. It's worth a read if you're a fan of romantasy.
If you liked this book I recommend you check out the Divine Articles series by Em Livett or The Grisha Trilogy by Leigh Bardugo. Both series fall into the romantasy genre, are entertaining, and are well written.
Omg I just finished this book and I was like what………… it can’t end yet. Magic and Fae and 3 hotties. What more could you start off with to a good book? Luxe is the MFC and her journey and heartache is feeling.. on her quest she meets 3 male Fae that need her to right the wrong. Sorry not into spoilers lol. I feel there is a potential for Luxe and the 3 Fae males that are protecting her to become something more. Maybe in the next one might delve into that. Overall I really enjoyed this and look forward to the next one. Def rec⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.⭐️
Edit to add … which there was a reference guide page in the beginning for places and pronunciation 😉
I of course with zero self control finished this book in days and now have to wait to get the other books
Pray for me because I'm desperate to know what happens next
Overall I really liked the witchy-fae thing this book had going for it Now I'm not saying I'm not a fan of witchy things I just don't have too much experience with it and I think this has a fairly good storyline and definitely has a lotta room to expand on some interesting concepts and plotlines
Well she has done it again. She has built a world and characters within this book that I’ve fallen for. Just like her other books, Cara has created this space for the reader to enter and be immersed in. Can’t wait to see what else she has in store with her upcoming books!
This was a great start to what looks like will be an exciting new series! I was immediately drawn in and very interested in the characters, their backgrounds, and their motivations within this story. I love a good why choose story and I think this one is going to be a pretty good one! I loved getting to explore the magic, both fey and witchy within this world. I look forward to continuing this series as this book ended with so many questions!
4.5 stars!!! This is an incredibly written book. I can only imagine that my rating will go up to 5 stars once I read the final version after all edits are made. The story follows a young woman named Niamh (called Luxe) who spends her entire life thinking that she is just a normal human, until a handsome stranger shows up at her late aunt’s shop claiming that she is half fae. Of course you can imagine how shocked Luxe is at this news, but she considers what this man, who introduces himself as a fae named Sören, has to say. After a series of events, Luxe comes to realize that what Sören is telling her is not only true, but that her life is in grave danger. The pair escape to a safe house in the human realm created specially for fae on the run. Here they meet two other fae males, both just as handsome. Alistair and Calix. Over the course of the story, the four of them create strong relationships (some more than others 😉). They return to the fae realm in order to explore the intricacies of a prophecy that just might get Luxe killed. Along the way encountering evil queens, portals, and danger at every turn.
Cara did a beautiful job creating an intriguing and vivid setting with relatable yet still very magical characters. The storyline was great, though I felt the ending was a bit rushed. I did, however, read a beta version of the book so I suspect that will be resolved. Aside from that, I loved this book and highly recommend it to anyone who likes fantasy, fae, intense adventures, and steamy romance!
Thank you to the author for providing me with a beta copy of this book! All opinions are my own and I have not been paid to review this.
I love when authors are great at world building, and character building. I like to understand where characters come from, and who they are this book definitely did that! I enjoy anything with fae romance. If you love why choose, fae romance, and adventure this is the best author to get behind!
Oh how I love a potentially good polycule! Now I wont spoil anymore than that, since no real relationships are established. Our heroine has more pressing matters to think about than three very hot fae males. Still 👀 some of these guys definitely give of poly vibes and I'm here for it!
I like how the plot of the book drives the characters forward and it feels like a natural timeframe of both actions, recovery and relationship building. I wont bore you with the synopsis since I believe you've probably read it before coming to the reviews and if not, enough of the other review cover that part. What I'd like to mention though is a beautiful red tread throughout this book, it all flows so well, and we can hint at what comes next but its not painfully obvious. Thus its still enjoyable reading once we get to any revelation. The characters are well rounded and have distinct personalities and voices. The authors writing style is great! I read it practically in one sitting and it was a fast read, medium paced. Without too many scenes feeling like a drag. The slow scenes were short and the boring bits happen of page. Every character has flaws and I can see some good potential character development! Luxe herself has already grown a lot during this first book and I look forward to reading more about all of them!
This book is not very spicy though the following books will pick up a bit. For me (usually not a spicy reader) it was enjoyable. The majority of the book being action & a lil bit of mystery, relationship building, banter and some flirting, with minuscule spice.
As for my negative opinions, this book has one lore, fae. I'm a nerd when it comes to folklore and being from the Nordics I know our own and I know some of Celtic and Greek mythology too. This book bases the feywild on mostly Celtic lore, and it assumes all other mythology is based around this singular type of fae. AND ITS SET IN AMERICA, WHERE ARE THE CRYPTIDS??? ok ok I'll calm down~. The fae lore of the Nordics is quite different from the British isles and I have no idea how it would line up with the Greeks, as they have less in common. Here we just have to accept that all fae and mythological heroes belong in the same category to the Celtic fae. At least we got some Bánánach and Sluagh mentions and appearances! So that's a + Rant over!
These chapters will have you on a roller coaster of emotions.There is a new person in the group, there has been more heart break for Luxe. What happened to Soren and can Luxe help him also?
I CAN'T WAIT to read book 2
Chapters 21-25
These chapters We are still on an adventure with Luxe,Soren,Alistar and and Calix. Luxe gets more help with studying and practicing her magic and abilities.She even gets some goodies to help her with her magic as well.
I think We might have stepped into The Vampire Diaries books/TV show. Something is wrong with Luxe and she needs more help then the boys can give. While getting the help Luxe needs,she also practices another part of magic.
Oh no!someone has been taking while they continue their adventure. How will they get the person out?
Half of chapter 24 gives us a heart rate rising moment. Did we step in the book series of Monica Ross ?
I CAN'T WAIT to read more
Chapters 16-20
These chapters will have you on the edge of your seat. We are still on an adventure with Luxe,Soren,Alistar, and Calix .
Oh boy will there be a riff between the group. The story is starting to get action packed. The end of chapter 19 and half of 20 is full of oh no moments.
I CAN'T WAIT to read more!
Chapters 11-15
The story is getting so good!!!! Oh and we have another snort laugher YAY!
We are still on an adventure with Luxe and Soren, and two allies. We are having ourselves a love square.
The end of chapter 12 had me snort laughing out loud. I am getting The House of Night series vibes.
Luxe continues to work on her magic and how to control it and learning more about her family.
There is trouble coming!!!?
I CAN'T WAIT to read more
Chapters 6-10
We are on an adventure with Luxe and Soren. We might even be seeing a Love hmm square (not triangle).
Luxe is getting schooled about her powers and learning more and more about her family.
I am seeing Melissa Joan Hart Drew McIntyre Karrion Kross Jacob Black in my head as I am reading this story .
I CAN'T WAIT to read more!
The vibes that I am getting from the story so far,is Sabrina The Teen Age Witch.
When I'm reading a story I like to get a picture in my head of the characters, I use actors/actress', or wrestlers .
Luxe- Melissa Joan Hart Soren- Drew McIntyre
Chapters 1-5
The world is throwing a lot at Luxe and just when she thinks she has found a rhythm in her life. She is told things that blow her mind, and she is also having sleep problems as well.
There is a certain person or is it a person, who has told her something's that blew her mind, and now he wants to help her get control of her life.
Luxe In Between is a contemporary romantic portal fantasy and the first in a trilogy.
This is dual narration but not in the alternating chapter style I'm familiar with. Paige Reisenfeld reads the female voices and all the narration, while PJ Freebourn voices the males. It took me a few chapters to grow used to it but it quickly felt natural and I enjoyed listening to them.
Fantasy needs a lot of worldbuilding and character development so the first few chapters were slow in pace - which is to say, thorough and careful. Once the author had established the foundation of her narrative though, she took the brakes off and sent me on a ride! It was an immersive, colourful, absorbing escapade!
I really like the core group and how there is a lot of character growth as the story progresses. Luxe, Soren, Alistair and Calix always feel real and their interactions authentic. Luxe is resilient for the most part, doing the best she can as surprise after surprise are thrust upon her, until eventually she has to accept the probable loss of her human existence. I respect her occassional push back though, because who wouldn't get snarly at such unwanted and life-changing adjustments. The three Fae guardians are all wonderful examples of positive masculinity, which is refreshing to read. In this book there is tension with flirting and a few kisses (and one clothes-on spicy scene) but it's leaning heavily towards RH. I appreciate the time spent getting to know each other though, rather than jumping straight into bed - there are two more books for that!
This is a very magical story. Witches, Fae of all descriptions, a prophecy driving the narrative and mentions of mythological figures and objects. It makes for a vibrant story infused with the full spectrum of emotions, and since the author has a polished writing style, it was always interesting, with something new popping up to keep me focussed.
I've already started book 2. So glad I found this author!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Luxe in Between is the first book in Cara's new portal fantasy trilogy and it was an amazing read. This story follows Luxe on her journey to discover the truth about why her parents mysteriously vanished twenty years ago. Along the way, she discovers she has witchy abilities and with the help of three gorgeous fae males, she learns to use and control her powers.
I really loved the portal traveling aspect of this story. It added so much to the world-building with all the unique and different places readers get to visit. From lush & dangerous forests in the fae realm to a wild night in Las Vegas in the human realm, I loved exploring every place along this amazing cast of characters. The story, filled with twists, turns, and tons of adventure, was so much fun to read.
I really enjoyed Luxe's character. She is unbelievably resilient through everything that is thrown at her. I loved the different relationships she had with the three male main characters. Sweet moments with Alistair, steamy banter with Calix, and the possessive jealousy of Soren. Her relationship with Calix was my favourite.
Thank you Cara for the ARC copy of Luxe In Between. I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
•Please let this be a why choose!!! •Slow Burn •Magic •witches and fae oh my •Prophecy
~Romantasy~
Book one. Let me say -one of the tamer roller coaster-of-a-story-ride that I have been on. But definitely kept me on the edge of my seat guessing and saying out loud “hold on!”. It tugged at my heart strings and had me going through a few emotional moments.
You get a found family, the plot has you acting like your own investigator figuring out the prophecy and what it could mean. But also some side items that tie in one way or another. And on top of that the sexual angst (and see we but I wanted more one bed scene-technically… no nvm)-I’m here for some handsome Fae and a strong FMC.
I received this from BookSiren and leave this honest review.
One of those lol moments.
“The only reason she wasn’t letting loose with it was because she was trying to process his comment about “humans” that made it sound like he didn’t include himself in that group—and the fact that he called her “unstable.”. ~Luxe (Cara Blaine).
I found the story to be captivating and the world building was amazing.
Luxe/Niamh always felt like an outsider and didn't belong anywhere. Soren spent years checking on her to make sure she was fine without her ever knowing he was there. When she is thrust into the world of fae and witches she is not prepared with just how brutal it can be. She needs to not only master her magic powers in order to solve the prophecy.
Søren, Alistair and Calix are the three high fae males who help Luxe figure out what is going on. All three have very different personalities and you fall in love with them all. Together these outcasts all feel like a found a family. They are all flawed and make mistakes but they all have each others backs no matter what.
I absolutely loved this book and cannot wait to start the next one in the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I really enjoyed this book and look forward to more of Luxe’s journey with her three fae men!
There is a lot to keep track of with the different types of fae in the book, the prophecy, and the magic, but it all lends itself to the creative world building the author has done. The author put in a lot of thought for the world building and does well to explain each step or part, especially the different type of fae and where they reside.
The relationships between Luxe and the three fae men, Sören, Calix, and Alistair are somewhat frustrating. I would have liked to see more viewpoints from the men on their feelings towards Luxe. I think it would have added more to the slow-burn romance that is building in the novel.
Overall, the story is wonderful and I can’t wait for the next book to come out to continue their journey to defeat the Queen and build her relationships with these men!
Fantasy books have never been my forte. I don’t typically have a strong interest in fae or the fae world but Cara Blaine has peaked my interest!
I enjoyed the plot and action in this book, I loved the love square and how oblivious Luxe is until she isn’t. Calix is a very intriguing character and I’d love to get to know his background a little more. He’s never really opened up and when Luxe comments about his family, his harsh reaction intrigues me.
This book has action, lust, a little spice, magic, kidnapping, faery, witches, nymphs, and heroic characters. It’s a fantasy world brought to life and I loved how I was able to feel as if I was on the journey with the characters.
One of my favorite things about a book is when it captures your attention and just when you think you have it figured out the plot thickens and you have to change your theory all over again!
Luxe is still reeling from her aunt's death when she discovers that her mother was a witch, her father was a fae, and now three hot male fae are sworn to protect her from the Queen's machinations. Lucky Luxe.
This fun fae fantasy is exciting, romantic (didn't realise there was a RH going to be involved as I'd forgotten the game Cara did) and mysterious.
It's set between the human world (USA) and the fae realms, which makes the world-building necessarily more fae-related, but also bringing in humorous elements, such as Calix's love for M&Ms.
There's a moderate amount of spice and language, plenty of action, fighting etc., and a bit of threatening and such. Fits in well with the story and not gratuitous.
The characters are all interesting with their various strengths and vulnerabilities, I can't wait to see what they get up to next!
Why is 5 stars the highest I can go?! I DEVOURED this book in about a day and a half!! I am so invested in where this quest is going to take this bunch!! I identify so much with luxe and you can see her growing and developing throughout the book. She has lost everything and has to put her faith and trust into 3 male faes that she hardly knows. The 3 faes have such different personalities and I’m draw to each of them for completely different reasons. This book has been action packed in a different realm but also in the human realm. I CANNOT wait until the other books come out!! Carats Blaine is great at giving me enough details that I can see it in my mind easily and I thoroughly enjoy her writing style!! Give me MORE!!!
This book started out with a bang and was super engaging right from the beginning. It caught my attention and was easy to follow with lots of detail and background. Right away you're thrown into Luxe's world and you really start to feel for her and her story. Think of Bonnie from vampire diaries if she found out she was also half fae. Such a unique twist there. Then her world is flipped upside down and she ends up on an epic adventure. There's also some heated chemistry and banter between not one but THREE fae males. 🫠 I enjoyed this book so much and can't wait for the rest of the series to really take things to the next level.
*Thank you BookSirens for providing me with this free ARC in exchange for an honest review*
I loved this book!! I love all of Cara’s books, this one is my favorite so far. I am so excited to read the next one.
Luxe is a lovable and engaging main character with a sad and mysterious family history.
I love the uniqueness in the personalities of the three leading male characters. They all feel different and are very swoon worthy in their own way.
I have not read a whole lot of fantasy genre books that are set in the modern world before and i really enjoyed jumping between the human and fae worlds. It seems like we will see many different types of fae as well which makes for a more interesting story for me.
The plot and romance are so well written that I could not have put this down!
I really appreciate the opportunity to ARC review for this series!!
Really enjoyed this book! It had this nice bridge between portal fantasy and slice of life to me. The characters are dynamic and the world building was well thought out. I like the differences in how magic works between realms and what is and isn't allowed in each. I enjoyed how Blaine wove the three love interests in with Luxe, and how each relationship had its own unique pros/cons/complexities. The tension was GREAT (and a great slow burn). I can't wait to see how the characters evolve going forward.
As a side note, I listened to the audiobook. The dual narration was wonderful, and more importantly (for me) the pacing was great! I didn't feel a need to increase the speed. Sometimes narrators can move a little slow for my patience, haha.
Not so sure about Romantasy? It’s ok me neither. Well, that was until I read Luxe in Between. Blaine has created a slow burn love triangle that is perfect for getting your toes wet with this booming genre.
There was magic, there was wonder, there was of course some spice and I was here for it.
Embedded into the world of fae, witches, evil queens, and miss Luxe was one layer after another of believability and relatability. Somehow, I found similarities in the magic riddled characters.
But what Blaine did was create a world where everyone has something to offer. There’s this sense of empowerment while reading because of the tenacity and well stubbornness of Luxe. In a way, Blaine highlights through her story how important it is to see your own worth and to embrace your unique abilities.
Wow... simply WOW... but also this story was so amazing!! I was OBSESSED with it from the beginning! I love all of the characters, each unique and adoring. Found family is absolutely one of my favorite types of tropes and the bonds that Luxe is building with everyone is amazing! This being the first book in a trilogy was very wonderfully paced and left me wanting more for book 2 and 3! I swoon for ALL of the characters sooo hard also hahahaha!! This story definitely had it all... laughs, heartbreak, tension, growth, bonding, and with all the characters being sooooooo attractive GIVE ME THAT SPLASH OF SPICE! Cannot wait for the next one!
This book was amazing. I was there when I heard it was about Fae because anything with Fae I am there! The story follows Luxe, a half Fae half witch, who knows nothing about who she really is. After her grandmother's death her life flips upside down and we follow her on an adventure of self discovery, becoming a part of a rebuilding. While finding all of your new male friends super attractive. Each of the characters in this story have unique backstories and character development. I can't wait to read the rest of the series and see where this story takes us. This is by far my Second Favorite Read of this year!
4,5🌟 Okay, this book? Started it by pure coincidence. All because I could download the audiobook for free on "Stuff your earbuds day" even but DAMN was it epic! it was so cool! there was so much action, suspense and unexpected events! this could literally be a serious or a movie and I'd watch it the second it comes out! I love this so much! I can't wait to discover the rest of the series and follow Luxe and her pretty boys army on their adventures and watch as she overthrows that evil queen!
Ps: the book had full potential to be a 5 🌟 book. I didn't give it 5 stars cuz I predicted a few little things but still, it was awesome and I was happy to discover I was correct with a few things 😂