To Sway a Bard: A Standalone Enemies-to-Lovers Fantasy Romance Novella

by Angela J. Ford

This standalone romantasy novella is a must read for fans looking for a fast-paced romantasy with heart-pounding adventure, enemies to lovers tension, forced promxity and forbidden attraction.

An uncatchable thief. A relentless sheriff. The chase was inevitable… but falling for each other was not. . .

Zula, the notorious Blue-Feathered Bard, lives for the thrill of her heists, heedless of the consequences. Her latest job—pilfering priceless treasures from a peaceful troll village—could spark a kingdom-wide conflict, making it her riskiest venture yet. Brimming with confidence, she anticipates nothing but success. What she doesn't expect is Neo.

Neo, the kingdom's sheriff, is determined to bring Zula—an uncatchable thief armed with a magical ukulele—to justice. With a secret weapon at his disposal and a growing infatuation with the cunning thief, his duty has never been more challenging.

When a chance encounter brings them together, stirring unexpected emotions, a thrilling chase begins. Both determined to achieve their goals, neither expects their hearts to be caught in the crossfire. Will Zula execute one final, daring escape, or will Neo's love prove to be the ultimate snare?

Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Romantasy, Enemies To Lovers, Novella, Adventure, Fantasy Romance

252 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 11, 2025

About the author

Angela J. Ford is a bestselling fantasy romance author who writes mortal × immortal forbidden romance featuring Black heroines in worlds where gothic cinema meets fantasy.

Angela's standalone novels deliver steamy yearning, atmospheric world-building, and complete emotional satisfaction in one book. No cliffhangers. No waiting years for sequels. No series commitment required.

Perfect for readers who love the ache of mortal/immortal romance, want meaningful Black representation in fantasy, and prefer complete standalone stories over multi-book series commitments.

When she's not crafting fantasy romance worlds, Angela can be found with her nose in a book, curating romantasy book boxes for readers, or exploring new ways to bring her stories to life through signed editions and immersive book experiences.

Visit her website (angelajford.com) for signed hardcovers, exclusive book boxes and luxe bookish candles.

Reviews

[Winter · Rating 5 out of 5]

5.0 out of 5 stars

WITH A FEATHER 🪶 IN HER CAP

Reviewed in the United States on April 13, 2025

Ford had me hanging on every word.

This was my first read by this author, and believe me, it will not be my last.

I was so taken away by the imagination put into the characters Zula and Neo, from villain to lovers, good versus evil.

If you are a fan of stories about bards (only this time magical, female bards) who have a tendency to evade capture and fall in love, then Angela Ford has a magnificent story to tell.

I can't wait to find out what new adventures are in store for Neo and Zula next.

Fantastic storyline 👍🏾👍🏾👏🏽
Awesome characters 👌🏾
Dynamic pairing 🤴🏾+👧🏾

KUDOS

[Eternity's Raven · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book was one giant nope from me.

I get it's a novella, so there's a lot for the author to cram into 236 pages. But that is not an excuse for bad world building, lack of character development or personality and a weird insta-love, no build up romance. All things this book contains.

I didn't like the characters. The plot was nonsensical and silly, and not silly in a good way. There were phrasing issues throughout and the dialogue was atrociously bad. It felt so stilted and it did not flow well at all.

I really wanted this to be a fun and short palate cleanser read, and it was anything but. I was just annoyed by it.

Also how the HELL did the FMC hire thugs with all the guards around? No explaination on that? At all? Okay then.

[kilmosnaps · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cute! Immediately pulled into the action. Love a good boy versus bad girl. Incredibly readable.

Neo was already DOWN BAD which I love in a man.

Interesting world building: family lore - Out of the three royal children, each one had a specialty. One would rule, one would hunt and one would persuade.

Was very into this and now I need a full length book for their adventure searching for the buried harp.

This was my first Ashley J. Ford - I will definitely read her other books based on this.

He wanted to reach out across the void between them and thaw her icy exterior with heated kisses, to feel her melt in his arms, under the onslaught of his touch.”

“You’re quite beautiful when you’re angry.”

“She hated that she thought of him as safe rather than an enemy, but she had to admit a grudging respect because he’d actually captured her.” - me giggling! She likes him.

[Amelia Rikstad · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm DEVASTATED that this is over 😭💔
I fell so quickly in love with the characters and world that I'm feel very empty knowing there is no more of this world. Whyyy does it have to he a standalone 💔 How dare you 💔

Pacing was great, plot was great, character development was great (especially for such a short book) and the clean yet swoony romance was 10/10. I'm honestly not one to pick up romance heavy books, but this was just *chefs kiss*

Needless to say, I will be reading more by this author and I really REALLY hope we see Neo and Zula sometime again 🥺💙 please? Pretty please with a stolen orange on top?

[Alice · Rating 3 out of 5]

3,5⭐️

That was an extremely adorable tale. I am unfamiliar with novellas, yet I admire the level of effort and enthusiasm invested in crafting a detailed, well-structured narrative within a 200-word limit.

In under 200 pages, crafting something genuinely profound is challenging,and to be honest,even if it wasn't the best story I ever red, it was a delightful one.
It was certainly a fast read—maybe overly fast. Everything seems somewhat hurried, which is unfortunate; it sets the stage for an excellent novel. What I enjoyed most was the environment, the magic system, and the quest for magical artifacts! It was exceptionally well executed, and I would have appreciated more.

The love story was charming; it's a Sunshine x Grumpy (the male character embodies the sunshine). The banter between Neo and Zula is fun, yet it lacked emotions to me. The author aimed to establish a genuine bond between the two character; it’s evident and palpable: they’ve encountered each other numerous times previously. Nonetheless, even with that, there was still something lacking for me to believe in their love...
Moreover, there are many remarks regarding their appearance, and I find that challenging, particularly when it becomes repetitious. I'm fine with them finding each other attractive, but the excessive emphasis on their looks makes the relationship seem shallow to me.
Even if that doesn't change the fact that they are incredibly adorable!

There is an abundance of dialogue and, as a result, a great deal of exposition is conveyed through it, which isn't my preferred aspect; we receive too much information, and it could have been more nuanced.

In general, it was a highly enjoyable read, and I thoroughly enjoyed myself !

[Jokie · Rating 3 out of 5]

3,25 ⭐
I really liked the bad girl x good boy relationship here. Also the jungle and troll territory is an unique location for a romantasy story, you don't see it that often. I absolutely love that our main male character was a sheriff and a prince as well, it showed his loyalty to his people and family. And our main female character being a thief is a chef's kiss. I think it was a bit of enemies to lovers and a little slow burn. I just hope that he fixed her broken ankle, I don't want her to wobble. I'm sad that we don't have more info on Issa, she looked like an interesting character. But this book was fast paced and enjoyable. And shootout to the author for making the character a person of colour.

[Rose | Adventurous Bookworm · Rating 4 out of 5]

I picked this book up and was instantly pulled into the story.
As a novella, this book is fast paced. No, you don’t get the same character development as a full length novel, but the author did quite well.
The plot kept on moving the whole time and it set up a new world that Ford has not written in before. I’m hoping that means that there will be another addition in the future.

4 Stars

Clean

I received a copy of this book from the author. All thoughts are my own and a positive review was not required.

[Bookish_Aly_Cat · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a fun, quick read. I absolutely loved this dual POV novella following Zula the thief and Neo the kingdom’s sheriff. I was immediately drawn into this fast paced adventure and had a blast reading this story.

For this being such a short read it lacks nothing. It’s got adventure, romance, magic, and all the cozy fantasy vibes.

Thank you to the author for the gifted copy of the book.

[Caleism · Rating 2 out of 5]

2 ⭐️ is generous for this book I swear.

Zula was impossible to like. I tried so hard to understand her situation and to be in her shoes but the girl was impossibly selfish and egoistic I wanted to slap some sense into her.

Neo is too good for her and he is not a martyr either. You forgive her and place the kingdom in danger all over again???? At least he knew what he was doing and had some plans but seriously how did he even fall for her??? His unconditional love was out of reason. You talked to her once and now you would do anything for her including putting your family, the ones you are talking lime they are your whole life, in danger for her????

[Annie (Houseofbooksandboardgames) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was fun! There was a good amount of world building and character development for a novella. I was personally hoping for a little more of the chase between the thief and sheriff but it was still very enjoyable.

Thanks to Haus of Fables and Angela J Ford for the ARC!

[Libby · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was fast paced, cute and tropical. It truly felt like a mini vacation from reality, gambolling through the tropics. Granted, there wasn’t much time to fully connect with the characters, but that didn’t matter, it was fun and fast paced. And despite the short length the author still managed to include callbacks to earlier scenes! Hello, is it just me who found that raccoon absolutely adorable!?!

[Manjima (reads.n.escapes) · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Review: Thanks to Haus of Fables for sending in the ARC.

Was a beautiful and sweet read. Loved our prince Neo, for his character, immensely and deeply in (forbidden)love yet fully aware of his duties. The character growth of Zula was something to look forward and it was very satisfactory. Specially the speech when she starts with "I have learned my lesson", it was so beautifully said and then ending with "I think we'll figure it out" was such a beautiful moment. Absolutely loved how their lovestory developed from "it's not possible" to "we'll figure it out".
The vivid descriptions of the adventures and the sceneries, and the slips of mischief and teasing in between were just so well portrayed. Loved the cute story which I devoured in a few hours and wished it lasted longer.

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you so much to Haus of Fables and the author for this gifted e-arc! I was so excited when I got the email!

"An uncatchable thief. A relentless sheriff. The chase was inevitable… but falling for each other was not. . ."

To Sway A Bard is the second book in the Tempting Thieves Collection, a fun romantasy series by multiple authors. It follows a group of clever thieves as they dodge relentless hunters, steal forbidden treasures, and find love along the way. All books in the series can be read as a standalone and the books can be read in any order, which is pretty cool!

This was a super cute short read that was packed with romance and adventure that I devoured in less than 24 hours. I loved the chemistry and build up between Zula and Neo, it was so well written that every interaction they had with each other I was screaming for me. No spice in this novel, but who needs spice when you have a he falls first, forced proximity, only one horse, magical plots romantasy!

If you love all of these tropes, I recommend you give this book a read - will definitely be reading more in the series!

[The Fated Shelves · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️ 4
🌶️ 0
I loved this story! It's a super fast-paced standalone romantasy novella. It has everything I love about a book. Incredible characters, smart female character, palpable tension between the characters, diversity, plot twists, hidden identities, enemies to lovers, masquerade, forced proximity… it had it all! I truly loved it. And although this was my first book written by Angela J. Ford, it won’t be the last! I love her writing style and how she creates the connection between the characters and the reader.

I am not rating this book higher for a few reasons:

- It felt very short. I know it is a novella, but I could have continued reading about Zula and Neo (especially Neo) for ages.
- At the end of the boo,k Zula also kind of disengaged me. She started being the main character, and with the whole book going around her, but the entire story around Neo became way more interesting. I wish Zula’s character would have continued being as interesting as at the beginning of the book
- The masquerade chapter was a great opportunity to introduce more plot/story. It also felt pretty rushed

That being said, I had a very fun time reading this book, and I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to enjoy a very fast-paced romantic read.

Thank you, Angela J. Ford and Haus of Fables, for this gifted ARC #hausoffables_pr #ToSwayABard

[Sixella MK · Rating 4 out of 5]

Small Business BookTok ARC Reviews (BookTome Edition): “To Sway a Bard” by Angela J. Ford

Note: This ARC was given to me for free by the author and I am reviewing this book voluntarily.

Once upon a time, in a faraway kingdom, Zula garnered an infamous reputation across the land—stealing magical objects while donned in a blue-feathered hat and armed with a magical lute as the Blue-Feathered Bard! Hot on her trail and determined to bring her to justice is Neo, the kingdom’s sheriff, torn between his duty and his infatuation with the elusive Bard. In this game of cat and mouse, what will reign supreme: duty or heart? Riches or true love? Anything can happen when one tempts a thief!

The Fordiverse is BACK!!! From the author of the “Tower Knights” series, the “Lore of Nomadia” series, and the “Goddesses of Labraid” series, Angela J. Ford delivers her signature Romantasy flair with the second installment in the author-collaborated fantasy romance series “Tempting Thieves”! This page-turning read is packed with tension—from the action-packed thief-versus-sheriff antics to the will-they-won’t-they chemistry between Zula and Neo! I can’t give too much away, but I can guarantee this novella is sure to be a swoon-worthy delight! Are you Team Zula, Team Neo, or Team Zeo? If you’re ready to immerse yourself in the literary dimension that is the Fordiverse, don’t miss this book when it hits online shelves on April 11, 2025!

Rating: 4/5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Tropes to Expect: Fantasy Romance, Secret Identity, Enemies-to-Lovers, Forced Proximity, Sheriff x Bard Thief, Magical Lute, Magical Artifacts, He Falls First, Masquerade Party Subplot, and Forbidden Romance Narrative!

Trigger Warnings: Relationship Anxiety and Trust Conflict/Anxiety.

[Lana · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading this standalone romantic novel full of light banter between the staid sheriff Neo and Zula, the blue-feathered bard, who was also the best thief around. Zula was under a witch's curse and armed with a magical ukulele which put listeners to sleep she went after magical relics which were then given to the witch. Zula did this to protect her father's life, however one fine day she was captured. This of course put her father's life at risk, as it made the witch very angry when the item she desired was not handed over. Zula had tried to steal from the trolls risking an all out war which would endanger the Kingdom. Neo was torn between wanting to do his duty, to protect the kingdom and his beloved family, whilst falling in love with the thief. Going on one last heist together was bound to be trouble or not! This is a really fun and light read, with many beautiful descriptions of nature, and slightly hot moments between the enemies turned lovers, as well as a really cute racoon who it seems successfully stole from the thief.

[Paige · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was initially drawn to this story because of the character art but I also loved the premise as I love stories about thieves. My interest was further piqued when I read that our thief was also a bard, and her love interest was the sheriff assigned to catch her.

I adored Zula and her magical ukulele which she uses to help her commit her heists and helped her earn her reputation as the Blue Feathered Bard. As for Neo, he was also adorable, especially in the beginning when interacting with Zula. Plus, I love it when the guy falls first.

At around 150 pages, the story was fast paced but it was well developed. I honestly at times forgot that it was a novella. And I know it's advertised as a standalone romantasy, but I feel like there's potential for another book to be written. I'd love it if I could read more about Zula and Neo.

Thank you to Angela J. Ford for sending me an ARC.

[jenelle ｡･:*˚:✧｡ · Rating 3 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW ‧͙⁺˚*･༓☾

For a standalone and no spice, this is an enjoyable read! The first 20% felt sort of emotionless but it was very foundational and it’s a short read so that didn’t deter me at all!

The plot was very quick and enjoyable and clear but felt like we added some extra, unsettled elements at the end that cause the conclusion to lack some closure.

The jungle setting was very unique and enjoyable!

I loved the dynamic of Nero (sheriff and hidden identity) and Zura (magical thief) and how it would work out between them and their build up to the end! They’re both extremely enjoyable characters!

Overall this was a quick, enjoyable read under 200 pages which very good characters growth but I’m not sure it’s a book I’d go out of my way to recommend to my mutuals. It feels better suited for someone maybe around 14-16 y/o.

[scribsbookshelf · Rating 4 out of 5]

To Sway a Bard by Angela J. Ford is part of a multi-author collaboration in the Tempting Thieves series. This story follows Neo, a sheriff, and Zula, the thief he is trying to catch. When the two finally cross paths it's anyone's guess what's going to happen next.

The novella is short, cute, well-written, and easy to follow. Neo and Zula's story is quickly engaging and he definitely falls first. There is no spice but the passionate relationship and attraction between the two of them is hard to ignore despite their identities and circumstances.

If you're looking for a cute and cozy read, definitely check out the story of Neo and Zula!

Thank you Haus of Fables and Angela J. Ford for the gifted ARC! All opinions are my own.

[Samantha · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an action packed duology featuring Neo, the sheriff in town, and Zula, a magic-ukulele-carrying bard/thief. Neo has been on the hunt for Zula in hopes to bring her in. This story goes back and forth between both perspectives. I loved the angles from each character. A lot of adventure, and maybe a bit of romance thrown in. Will Neo catch Zula? This is a quick read, and you will not want to put it down.

I received an advance copy of this book, and these thoughts are my own opinion!

Angela Ford is an amazing author, and I love every book I've ever read of hers. If you're looking for a wonderfully written fantasy romance with lots of action-packed adventure, then look no further. I adored this story, and highly recommend it!

[seph ˖♡ · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 stars! such a quick sweet and swoony read!

this was fun! i finished it all in one night. while i don't normally like stories that have characters falling instantly in love with each other, i think i'll let it slide for this couple. neo was just so darn cute. the way he was head-over-heels in love with zula from the very beginning was actually so endearing.

i picked this up expecting a good, fun time, and i finished it feeling great! i think the writing style might not be entirely for me, as the pacing felt a bit off and rushed during some parts of the book. i almost wish this was longer!

nevertheless, i really enjoyed neo and zula's story and the unique jungle setting. also, i cannot pass up a romance book with a bard in it. we desperately need more of those!

[Maeghyn T · Rating 3 out of 5]

This charming story follows the first capture of the Blue-Feathered Bard, the adventure, deception, and love affair that recounts her past and a potentially hopeful future. Reading this story, I needed to remind myself that it was not a sweeping series, but closer to a short story (at around 150 pages). The overall story was a fun and quick read, but left me wanting for more. The third quarter of the book felt a bit rushed for my taste and lacked the peripheral character development of people like the sheriff’s brother and sister. Overall I did enjoy this quick tale, I would love to see a longer form, expanded version of this story taking a deeper dive into Neo and Zula.

[Chelsea | Mrs Viking Reads · Rating 3 out of 5]

To Sway a Bard has a lot going for it - an engaging story, likeable characters, and super cute artwork that really brings the world to life. It’s easy to get attached to the cast and enjoy the cozy, heartfelt moments sprinkled throughout.

That said, the book tries to cram a bit too much into a short space. The pacing feels rushed at times, and some story beats don’t get the development they deserve. It left me wishing we had a few more pages to let things breathe.

Still, it’s a sweet read and worth checking out if you enjoy charming, character-driven tales with a dash of whimsy. Just don’t be surprised if it feels a little too short for the story it wants to tell.

[The Book and Bubble · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨ Book Review: To Sway a Bard by Angela J. Ford ✨

This one’s a fast-paced & fun adventure! 🩵

Zula is a blue-feathered bard with a magical ukulele 🎶 (yes, you read that right — a magical ukulele) that helps her stay one step ahead as an uncatchable thief. And then there’s Neo — a loyal sheriff and a prince 👑, doing his best to keep the peace and catch the elusive bard.

I loved the unique setting, imaginative characters, and magic artifacts. It’s a light, entertaining read perfect for when you need a fast-paced fantasy.

Would recommend if you love:
✨ Enemies to lovers
✨ Magic artifacts
✨ Bards and thieves
✨ Fun unique fantasy worlds

[Lily · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a cozy romantasy, full of fun, magic, and all the feels. Neo is an interesting character, and being introduced to him while he was at home gave us a good idea of who he is, and what his family is like. I will admit the opening isn’t the smoothest, but by the time you meet Zula, you’re pretty invested in the story. I love how unique the magic system is, and that Zula is not only a bard, but a thief. They’re complex characters, and their romance and semi-rivalry is cute. Although an unusual situation to become friends/lovers, Ford does a good job of making it work. If you like clean, cute, and kind of cozy romantasies with unlikely couples, then you’ll enjoy this.

[Lj · Rating 4 out of 5]

To Sway a Bard is a quick, cute and cosy read. It's the story of a thief (who's also a bard), the sheriff tasked with catching her, and a magical plot to take over the kingdom. It's fast paced, has lots of interesting twists and a completely clean romance. It's a stand alone, but I would like to see more written in this world as the jungle, magic and characters all have scope for more stories/developments.

I received an ARC from the author. All opinions and views in the review are my own.

[Ashley Martinez (ilovebooksandstuffblog) · Rating 4 out of 5]

To Sway a Bard

A cute story that was a lot of fun. I enjoyed the cat and mouse games between thief and sheriff. There were other fun surprises and twists like magic, thieving animals, royalty, and more that kept the story entertained and light.

I enjoyed Neo and Zula’s characters. Neo was a protector good doing MMC and Zula was a clever thief. It made for a sweet opposites attract romance.

Tropes for this one are; thief/sheriff, he falls first, forced proximity, reluctant allies, magical objects, curse, betrayal, forbidden romance, no spice, and more!

[InMoods · Rating 2 out of 5]

It was cute and all and a very short read. I liked the initial premise and the beginning hooked me. Pacing was rushed a bit towards the end though. It felt like the two main MC’s just needed to complete their arcs because the story needed to end somehow.

Something that really bothered me; there was a lot of explaining things that didn’t need to be explained. (show dont tell). I think the author should trust the readers more to pick up on things without directly saying it. It’s nothing too complex that needed to be reiterated. Otherwise I enjoyed it finely enough.

[Sarah Ryder]

****DNFed at 13%****

Very meh with insta love between two unremarkable characters in a very eh setting settled into paragraphs that aren’t indented (which kinda drove me nuts) and are weirdly double spaced apart (just why?) like it was downloaded from a fan fiction website rather then formatted in a published book.

Pass. This book and writing style just aren’t for me.


‼️Content (up to 13%)‼️

Alcohol/Drugs: mentions of characters having drunk ale at a tavern

Other: magic; magical abilities/objects; trolls

[Sarah Heinbaugh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Are you kidding me, this was literally so cute and sweet!! I loved Zula and Neo and their chemistry and relationship dynamic. The story was fast paced and kept me entertained from the beginning to the very end. Even though it was a novella, it met all my requirements for what I love and look for in a story.

Thank you Angela J. Ford and Haus of Fables for this ARC. This was such a lovely read. Angela definitely gained a new fan 🫶🏻