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Beasts of the Briar #5
Frozen by Stardust (Deluxe Edition): A Why Choose Beauty and the Beast retelling
Nowhere in the Enchanted Vale is safe anymore. Sira, the queen of the Below, has threatened open war, and there are no lengths she won’t go to destroy us. But she might not get the chance… we may destroy ourselves first.
After months apart, I’m finally reunited with my five mates in the heart of Winter. Our only hope to defeat Sira lies in the shattered remains of an enchanted rose. If my father can restore it, we’ll gain control over Sira’s creations and end her reign for good.
But deep beneath the snow, a new threat stirs, one with vengeance in its heart and Keldarion in its sights.
As Winter braces for war, my mates each face their own reckonings. Farron has embraced a terrifying power beyond imagination. Dayton has risen from the land of the dead, only to wish he were still there. Echoes of Spring’s empty throne follow Ezryn everywhere he goes. And Caspian and Kel continue to wage their own war—one of trust and love that has haunted them for decades.
The realms are fracturing. Castletree is fading. And darkness has crept into my heart, too.
I’m the Princess of the Enchanted Vale. If I can’t find a way through this, no one will.
Everyone is intent on taking away everything that I love. My home. My people. My mates.
I won’t let them. Even if that means becoming the very thing I’ve sworn to destroy.
After months apart, I’m finally reunited with my five mates in the heart of Winter. Our only hope to defeat Sira lies in the shattered remains of an enchanted rose. If my father can restore it, we’ll gain control over Sira’s creations and end her reign for good.
But deep beneath the snow, a new threat stirs, one with vengeance in its heart and Keldarion in its sights.
As Winter braces for war, my mates each face their own reckonings. Farron has embraced a terrifying power beyond imagination. Dayton has risen from the land of the dead, only to wish he were still there. Echoes of Spring’s empty throne follow Ezryn everywhere he goes. And Caspian and Kel continue to wage their own war—one of trust and love that has haunted them for decades.
The realms are fracturing. Castletree is fading. And darkness has crept into my heart, too.
I’m the Princess of the Enchanted Vale. If I can’t find a way through this, no one will.
Everyone is intent on taking away everything that I love. My home. My people. My mates.
I won’t let them. Even if that means becoming the very thing I’ve sworn to destroy.
768 pages, Paperback
First published April 21, 2026
2983 people are currently reading
14383 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Helen
15 books4,030 followersElizabeth Helen is the combined pen name of sister writing duo, Elizabeth and Helen. Elizabeth and Helen write fantasy romance and love creating enchanting adventures for their characters. When they’re not writing, you can find them snuggling their cats, exploring their rainforest home in British Columbia, Canada, or rolling the dice for a game of Dungeons & Dragons. You can connect with them on TikTok, Instagram, or Facebook.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 479 reviews
April 27, 2026
(4.25/5) I love it when the boyfriends are boyfriends in a why choose 🤗
I DEVOURED my ARC of Frozen by Stardust in 2 days, which I think shows how invested I was because it's over 700 pages (!!).
🗓️ Pub date: April 21, 2026
🎁 ARC gifted to me by Bloom Books
We're now 5 books into Beasts of the Briar, and I just keep falling more and more in love with this world and its characters. This book feels like all the pieces are falling into place with this series, and we're about to go on a crazy ride in book 6.
I went back and forth on a 4.25 or a 4.5 rating, and I think I'm going to settle at 4.25 due to the way certain characters are being developed and the level of miscommunication. That being said, if I rated this book purely off the vibes it would be 5 stars.
I DEVOURED my ARC of Frozen by Stardust in 2 days, which I think shows how invested I was because it's over 700 pages (!!).
🗓️ Pub date: April 21, 2026
🎁 ARC gifted to me by Bloom Books
We're now 5 books into Beasts of the Briar, and I just keep falling more and more in love with this world and its characters. This book feels like all the pieces are falling into place with this series, and we're about to go on a crazy ride in book 6.
I went back and forth on a 4.25 or a 4.5 rating, and I think I'm going to settle at 4.25 due to the way certain characters are being developed and the level of miscommunication. That being said, if I rated this book purely off the vibes it would be 5 stars.
April 10, 2026
Why do I never learn…why have I done this five times in a row? I promise myself that I will pace myself, read a little bit each day, to truly make it last. But no. I have once again binge read the entire book because it’s so ADDICTIVE. And now I’m left on another heart-wrenching cliffhanger… I only have myself to blame 😂 (and Elizabeth and Helen for writing such a GLORIOUS series). It’s always hard to review a later installment in a series, since I don’t want to spoil anything for those of you who haven’t read this wonderful series yet. So I’m gonna keep it as undetailed as possible! This is the fifth book in the Beasts of the Briar series, a Beauty and the beast why choose retelling, with fae, an enchanted realm, angsty romance (like ANGSTY, angsty) life or death situations around every corner, sooo many emotions, insane world building and yeah, just really, really good books! 🙏🏼 We have traversed three of the four seasonal realms, and have finally entered Winter. And Frostfang is all that I thought it would be and more. My heart broke multiple times throughout these 700+ pages, and I have shed quite a few tears. But I’ve also laughed, swooned and wooped, at more times than I could count. Sitting on the edge of my seat I finished this read with my heart in my throat, and July 21 can’t come soon enough! Talk about a perfect birthday present btw 🥳 (my bday is July 20). I’m just gonna try to collect myself now, and prepare for a massive book hangover…
Book 6 and 7 (the final books in the series) will be out on July 21 and October 20, how will it all end…? I’m scared 🥺
Also, a huge thank you to Elizabeth and Helen for having me om your ARC team for the fourth time, so eternally grateful ♥️🐺🥀
Book 6 and 7 (the final books in the series) will be out on July 21 and October 20, how will it all end…? I’m scared 🥺
Also, a huge thank you to Elizabeth and Helen for having me om your ARC team for the fourth time, so eternally grateful ♥️🐺🥀
April 23, 2026
3 stars. ARC received from the authors in exchange for a honest review. This is the worst book in the series. I am hesitant to continue the series but I will for Cas, my baby girl, who is the only sane character that is remotely likable in this book. Which is sad considering this is one of my fav series of all time. But nothing went right in this book. Nothing that mattered. And it did not need to be 700 pages. This whole book is just one huge dumpster fire of horrible decisions and cringy, cheesy declarations of love after another by the stupid main characters.
The only things I liked was some of the MM smut and Cas and perhaps the very ending that the book earned its namesake for. (I won't spoil everything) Cas literally was the highlight of the entire series, the MVP that made this remotely entertaining and likable. He actually has complicated emotions and follows through his words and acts how he feels. I loved his povs and his development throughout.
Really, for a "villain" he is the one who saves the heroes over and over again but in the end, it didn't matter because Kel is an ass who keeps hurting him with his trust issues. Kel is only good when he finally tries to trust him but that is about it. He keeps saying he cares about the realm while being a shitty, selfish, and coward ruler because he refuses to break the curse when literally, it would save the world. But no, he refuses to try, for his kingdom or staff at Castletree and the entire fucking Vale. This lasts for nearly the entire book. Though in the end he kind of redeemed himself by being reasonable, but it doesn't make up for the rest of his shitty actions and poor decision making.
Then we get to Rosalina. So annoying. Childish and brash and thinks love can save the world. Starts wars because her feelings are hurt which only ended in people dying. I hated her pov. I could not stand it. She is not fit to rule or brave, just stupid and painfully naive in her kindness. The vale is doomed if she is supposed to be queen.
Overall, this entire book was one loss after another, the MCs just fooling around and fucking instead of actually preparing for war or talking about strategy. None of them have an inch of responsibility or braincell added together except Cas of course. Too much flowery love declarations that are just hollow, too much "love will conquer all". As if they can win the war on sheer wish and pitiful love alone. I hated the winter solstice, like what is the freaking point? Why we dancing around and celebrating after you guys just lost great men and a war? The festival of stories is also the most cringy and filler shit. And don't get me talking about the ending, that wedding was so so random and useless. I felt nothing at all. Everything is child's play, of course Sira is winning lol. No one even focuses on what's important.
And what is with this entire series being vegetarian? All the poor characters have are potatoes, bread, and fruit when they are out here fighting wars? Idk I just found it odd since I've never read this in a book before and there doesn't seem to be a plot reason to it.
This was so depressing and filler. The characters bland and blending together. This series did not need to be 7 books long really. 5-6 should have suffice if they are all gonna be 700 pages. We could have ended the series in this book alone. I am not looking forward to the rest of the series and I will not be getting another ARC lol.
The only things I liked was some of the MM smut and Cas and perhaps the very ending that the book earned its namesake for. (I won't spoil everything) Cas literally was the highlight of the entire series, the MVP that made this remotely entertaining and likable. He actually has complicated emotions and follows through his words and acts how he feels. I loved his povs and his development throughout.
Really, for a "villain" he is the one who saves the heroes over and over again but in the end, it didn't matter because Kel is an ass who keeps hurting him with his trust issues. Kel is only good when he finally tries to trust him but that is about it. He keeps saying he cares about the realm while being a shitty, selfish, and coward ruler because he refuses to break the curse when literally, it would save the world. But no, he refuses to try, for his kingdom or staff at Castletree and the entire fucking Vale. This lasts for nearly the entire book. Though in the end he kind of redeemed himself by being reasonable, but it doesn't make up for the rest of his shitty actions and poor decision making.
Then we get to Rosalina. So annoying. Childish and brash and thinks love can save the world. Starts wars because her feelings are hurt which only ended in people dying. I hated her pov. I could not stand it. She is not fit to rule or brave, just stupid and painfully naive in her kindness. The vale is doomed if she is supposed to be queen.
Overall, this entire book was one loss after another, the MCs just fooling around and fucking instead of actually preparing for war or talking about strategy. None of them have an inch of responsibility or braincell added together except Cas of course. Too much flowery love declarations that are just hollow, too much "love will conquer all". As if they can win the war on sheer wish and pitiful love alone. I hated the winter solstice, like what is the freaking point? Why we dancing around and celebrating after you guys just lost great men and a war? The festival of stories is also the most cringy and filler shit. And don't get me talking about the ending, that wedding was so so random and useless. I felt nothing at all. Everything is child's play, of course Sira is winning lol. No one even focuses on what's important.
And what is with this entire series being vegetarian? All the poor characters have are potatoes, bread, and fruit when they are out here fighting wars? Idk I just found it odd since I've never read this in a book before and there doesn't seem to be a plot reason to it.
This was so depressing and filler. The characters bland and blending together. This series did not need to be 7 books long really. 5-6 should have suffice if they are all gonna be 700 pages. We could have ended the series in this book alone. I am not looking forward to the rest of the series and I will not be getting another ARC lol.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 26, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
I absolutely love this series and that continues in this book. It feels like I’ve been waiting forever to get my hands on this, and I’m relieved we have LESS than 100 days until Stolen By Shadows.
This book was action packed! It answered a lot of questions that we’ve all been asking, and it also introduced new character and the conflicts that will be fought in the next two books. The authors did a wonderful job writing this, and thank you so much for the ARC (and the sauna scene)
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
I absolutely love this series and that continues in this book. It feels like I’ve been waiting forever to get my hands on this, and I’m relieved we have LESS than 100 days until Stolen By Shadows.
This book was action packed! It answered a lot of questions that we’ve all been asking, and it also introduced new character and the conflicts that will be fought in the next two books. The authors did a wonderful job writing this, and thank you so much for the ARC (and the sauna scene)
April 23, 2026
I genuinely don’t know what happened here.
The first four books had me completely hooked! The world-building, the tension, the character arcs, but this installment felt like everything unraveled in the worst way. The storyline had so much potential, and instead it just became messy and, honestly, frustrating to read.
Why is the green flame suddenly infecting half the main cast? Three out of six? It feels excessive and unnecessary, like stakes were forced instead of naturally built.
The relationships were one of the biggest letdowns. The main couples are stuck in constant cycles of fighting and miscommunication with little to no growth. It’s exhausting rather than compelling at this point.
Rose, especially, was hard to read. Her thought process felt immature and impulsive, not at all what you’d expect from someone in her position. There’s no sense of strategic thinking or development. I definitely did not get “great” “queen” energy.
There were also so many threads that went nowhere or felt underdeveloped. The hints about Caspian knowing her father could have been interesting, but instead it just feels vague and wasted, especially with the father reduced to… nothing. The introduction of new fae came across as chaotic rather than intriguing. They’re just violently unhinged without clear purpose. And Sira, who should feel like a major villain, ends up being all dramatic entrances and exits with very little actual impact.
The romance was fine, but even that felt off. There was a noticeable increase in MM content that didn’t feel organic to the story,it came across as forced rather than meaningful. And surprisingly, Kel and Rose, who I once loved, became my least favorite characters.
Overall, this book felt rushed and poorly put together, like it was more focused on pushing the series forward than telling a cohesive story. It’s disappointing, especially after how strong the earlier books were. This one just didn’t live up to the standard, and unfortunately felt more like a cash grab than a continuation of a story I loved.
The first four books had me completely hooked! The world-building, the tension, the character arcs, but this installment felt like everything unraveled in the worst way. The storyline had so much potential, and instead it just became messy and, honestly, frustrating to read.
Why is the green flame suddenly infecting half the main cast? Three out of six? It feels excessive and unnecessary, like stakes were forced instead of naturally built.
The relationships were one of the biggest letdowns. The main couples are stuck in constant cycles of fighting and miscommunication with little to no growth. It’s exhausting rather than compelling at this point.
Rose, especially, was hard to read. Her thought process felt immature and impulsive, not at all what you’d expect from someone in her position. There’s no sense of strategic thinking or development. I definitely did not get “great” “queen” energy.
There were also so many threads that went nowhere or felt underdeveloped. The hints about Caspian knowing her father could have been interesting, but instead it just feels vague and wasted, especially with the father reduced to… nothing. The introduction of new fae came across as chaotic rather than intriguing. They’re just violently unhinged without clear purpose. And Sira, who should feel like a major villain, ends up being all dramatic entrances and exits with very little actual impact.
The romance was fine, but even that felt off. There was a noticeable increase in MM content that didn’t feel organic to the story,it came across as forced rather than meaningful. And surprisingly, Kel and Rose, who I once loved, became my least favorite characters.
Overall, this book felt rushed and poorly put together, like it was more focused on pushing the series forward than telling a cohesive story. It’s disappointing, especially after how strong the earlier books were. This one just didn’t live up to the standard, and unfortunately felt more like a cash grab than a continuation of a story I loved.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 8, 2026
*2.25
This book was so dumb. I was really looking forward to this one cause I kinda liked the others book and after book 4 I was really excited to see where the story would go. It didn’t go ANYWHERE lol. This book will probably be my biggest disappointment of the year, BY FAR.
My biggest issue is with the sex scenes. I don’t mind a few when there’s actually a plot but this book was like 85% smut and 15% plot, it was actually insane.
All the characters are dumb asf, except my baby ezryn (still love him sm), the choice they all made made me SO mad. I had to put the book down sometimes.
Also can we talk about all the povs? It was so hard to keep up with them, it was insane. I had to scroll back a lot to the beginning of the chapters to see who I was reading about. I don’t mine 2 or 3 povs but like 7 POVs is way to much 😭
The next book is probably going to revolve around Caspian (sadly 💔), wil I read it? Probably. I got this far I want to see how it ends now. It’s only 2 more books 🙏🏻
I hope the next books will be better tho, cause this was just fucking dumb lol
This book was so dumb. I was really looking forward to this one cause I kinda liked the others book and after book 4 I was really excited to see where the story would go. It didn’t go ANYWHERE lol. This book will probably be my biggest disappointment of the year, BY FAR.
My biggest issue is with the sex scenes. I don’t mind a few when there’s actually a plot but this book was like 85% smut and 15% plot, it was actually insane.
All the characters are dumb asf, except my baby ezryn (still love him sm), the choice they all made made me SO mad. I had to put the book down sometimes.
Also can we talk about all the povs? It was so hard to keep up with them, it was insane. I had to scroll back a lot to the beginning of the chapters to see who I was reading about. I don’t mine 2 or 3 povs but like 7 POVs is way to much 😭
The next book is probably going to revolve around Caspian (sadly 💔), wil I read it? Probably. I got this far I want to see how it ends now. It’s only 2 more books 🙏🏻
I hope the next books will be better tho, cause this was just fucking dumb lol
April 24, 2026
In her own book, Rose has gone from being the main character to almost a supporting role. The other men used her as an excuse to get together.
November 22, 2025
I need this book like yesterday! A little impatient, but a lot excited.
May 5, 2026
This series has a chokehold on me and I'm not even mad about it. This one really hit me in the feels - I'm so glad the next one comes out so soon because I'm mildly unwell.
May 2, 2026
"Will you dance with me through the stars, through the ages, throughout the realms, throughout every universe?"
If i could give this 6 ⭐️ I would.
Im obsessed with this series but Kel's story just nailed it.
The new characters, the Princes, the action, the spice 😉 it was the perfect balance.
I cant wait for Caspians book! July needs to hurry
If i could give this 6 ⭐️ I would.
Im obsessed with this series but Kel's story just nailed it.
The new characters, the Princes, the action, the spice 😉 it was the perfect balance.
I cant wait for Caspians book! July needs to hurry
April 15, 2026
"My Rose, when you are not near, it is as if the stars cease to shine."
This book has been the most anticipated read ever since I finished book 4 nearly a year ago. I DEVOURED THIS BOOK LIKE MY LIFE WAS ON THE LINE. I am unwell. I am shook. YOUR HONOR, I LOVE THEM. I know this book would have me in a chokehold unlike anything I've ever experienced before.
I love all of these characters and the journey that they are on. Rosalina is a pure badass fae princess and she is not to be fucked with. It's only fitting that she have all the mates that she does.
I AM STILL A CASPIAN STAN OK. AND I LOVED ALL THE MOMENTS WITH HIM IN THIS BOOK AND ALSO MY HEART IS BROKEN FOR HIM. I love that he's finally getting to experience the love that he's been without his entire life and seeing him and Kel come back together had me tearing up because it healed something in my Caspian obsessed heart. I know he has to go through some shit to get to the other side, but let me tell you I am not okay, I need him to be okay... it will be okay.
Caspian raises his chin and looks straight ahead. "I'd rather die up here than live down there."
Fare's also having a bit of a dark side now because of the Green Flame, and it's honestly really hot, but he needs to get his shit together, and honestly, poor Day, because he's got some trauma from everything that he's been through since the last book and whatnot.
"Now, wet my cock so I can fuck our man hard." Farron sinks to the hilt inside me.
Ez is also having his healing moments and I love that for him.
"You are my queen, in body, spirit, and heart. I will follow you until my legs give way or my lungs cease to draw breath, and even then, I will follow you in death."
I NEED BOOK 6 AND JULY CANNOT GET HERE FAST ENOUGH. I LOVE THESE CHARACTERS AND THIS WORLD GUYS. I am so freaking obsessed.
"What a good girl you are. He's fucking you so hard, isn't he? You take it so well. Isn't Kel going to love to see you, fucked and filled by his best friend and his worst enemy?"
April 28, 2026
I’m getting fed up with this series, so let me rant rq —
After book 2, Rosalina stops being a full character. There have been plot twists and unearthed truths about her history and importance to the Vale, but her "growth" as a well-rounded character with flaws, insecurities, etc. pretty much ended a while ago. I've noticed that she's being written in a way where her purpose is just to ground the Princes in their own character development. Every chapter from her POV or dialogue she has with the Princes are literally just copy and paste. She's become this Manic Pixie Dream Girl who is picture perfect (pure of heart, always compassionate and forgiving, confident, loyal, innocent yet also their dream sexual partner) while the Princes each have these dynamic plot lines to work through to find their power, break their curse, earn their title, save their land, repair their relationships with the other Princes and their family, etc. She's genuinely not the main character anymore — the Princes are.
Last thing I'll say is we didn't need this many books. The overarching plot of this series is not complex enough to sustain 7 books. (Like SEVEN?! Are you kidding me?!) Also the plot of each book really isn't complex enough to sustain 500, 600, 700 pages. If I'm really being honest, every book I find myself thinking, "We could've wrapped this mystery up a while ago if they literally just got off each other for longer than an hour." Like I love a spicy book, but this is getting ridiculous even for me.
Will I still read books 6 and 7? Yes, because I do want to see a HEA (especially for my Caspian).
After book 2, Rosalina stops being a full character. There have been plot twists and unearthed truths about her history and importance to the Vale, but her "growth" as a well-rounded character with flaws, insecurities, etc. pretty much ended a while ago. I've noticed that she's being written in a way where her purpose is just to ground the Princes in their own character development. Every chapter from her POV or dialogue she has with the Princes are literally just copy and paste. She's become this Manic Pixie Dream Girl who is picture perfect (pure of heart, always compassionate and forgiving, confident, loyal, innocent yet also their dream sexual partner) while the Princes each have these dynamic plot lines to work through to find their power, break their curse, earn their title, save their land, repair their relationships with the other Princes and their family, etc. She's genuinely not the main character anymore — the Princes are.
Last thing I'll say is we didn't need this many books. The overarching plot of this series is not complex enough to sustain 7 books. (Like SEVEN?! Are you kidding me?!) Also the plot of each book really isn't complex enough to sustain 500, 600, 700 pages. If I'm really being honest, every book I find myself thinking, "We could've wrapped this mystery up a while ago if they literally just got off each other for longer than an hour." Like I love a spicy book, but this is getting ridiculous even for me.
Will I still read books 6 and 7? Yes, because I do want to see a HEA (especially for my Caspian).
April 24, 2026
I read this series for the drama and chaos... and I've been waiting for this next book... but this particular one was so annoying and really disappointing.
These 5 "rulers" share a single brain cell and that brain cell is struggling. There's no planning or even attempt at planning for any upcoming problems. There's no logic.
They've all become so annoying too... constantly crying about "oh I love you so much and you're such amazing. And the people love you!" It's so cringe. They legit do nothing, actually causing more problems for the world, and then praise each other for I don't know what... The evil ones start to seem more appealing.
The good guys are lowkey worse for the realm... they're so self-absorbed and idiots. (Except Caspian, i like him)
They even pulled a "this isn't you," and I rolled my eyes so hard.
I don't like being a hater. And, I usually overlook a lot of the small problems because the series was entertaining. But this one just took all the things I disliked and put them on steroids. I'm strongly questioning whether to dnf the series.
These 5 "rulers" share a single brain cell and that brain cell is struggling. There's no planning or even attempt at planning for any upcoming problems. There's no logic.
They've all become so annoying too... constantly crying about "oh I love you so much and you're such amazing. And the people love you!" It's so cringe. They legit do nothing, actually causing more problems for the world, and then praise each other for I don't know what... The evil ones start to seem more appealing.
The good guys are lowkey worse for the realm... they're so self-absorbed and idiots. (Except Caspian, i like him)
They even pulled a "this isn't you," and I rolled my eyes so hard.
I don't like being a hater. And, I usually overlook a lot of the small problems because the series was entertaining. But this one just took all the things I disliked and put them on steroids. I'm strongly questioning whether to dnf the series.
March 22, 2026
Overall Rating: 5 ⭐️
Spicy Rating: 3 🌶️
Beta read
Review to come 🩵
This may be my favorite book yet. So many secrets and details are starting to come to light, people are starting to learn things I’ve been dying to know! This was an action packed book that made me yearn for book 6. Characters were making me love them, characters were making me hate them. I was on the edge of my seat. This series is one of my all time favorites.
Spicy Rating: 3 🌶️
Beta read
Review to come 🩵
This may be my favorite book yet. So many secrets and details are starting to come to light, people are starting to learn things I’ve been dying to know! This was an action packed book that made me yearn for book 6. Characters were making me love them, characters were making me hate them. I was on the edge of my seat. This series is one of my all time favorites.
April 25, 2026
Another disappointment
The booktok girlies are probably going to love this book and part of me is convinced that’s why I’m slowly beginning to hate this series. I fear we have lost what could have been a great series to the tropeification of books for the sake of views and TikTok validation. I have to say I’m surprised that Elizabeth and Helen are so determined to drag the series out to the point where it’s better to push out mediocrity than quality content. Why are there two more books in the works. By the time the series is done this will be a 7 book series and we lost the plot and any semblance of a coherent storyline two books ago.
I’m so disappointed that this is where the series has ended up. The first two, even three books were so good. The plot had so much potential. I unfortunately feel we have devolved into a convoluted, poorly written, confusing, drawn out mess. This series is really starting to give cash grab. I want to carry on until the end but frankly I’m bored, overall, this book felt rushed and poorly put together. At this point it was more focused on pushing forward/extending the story to try and scrap out a further story. Whether I DNF this series remains to be seen.
The booktok girlies are probably going to love this book and part of me is convinced that’s why I’m slowly beginning to hate this series. I fear we have lost what could have been a great series to the tropeification of books for the sake of views and TikTok validation. I have to say I’m surprised that Elizabeth and Helen are so determined to drag the series out to the point where it’s better to push out mediocrity than quality content. Why are there two more books in the works. By the time the series is done this will be a 7 book series and we lost the plot and any semblance of a coherent storyline two books ago.
I’m so disappointed that this is where the series has ended up. The first two, even three books were so good. The plot had so much potential. I unfortunately feel we have devolved into a convoluted, poorly written, confusing, drawn out mess. This series is really starting to give cash grab. I want to carry on until the end but frankly I’m bored, overall, this book felt rushed and poorly put together. At this point it was more focused on pushing forward/extending the story to try and scrap out a further story. Whether I DNF this series remains to be seen.
April 17, 2026
oh my stars, firstly thank you @author.elizabeth.helen one for this Arc of book five in the beasts of the briar series and for writing this world. I have so much love for these characters and the world of the enchanted vale
This installation was possibly my favourite so far, it was high stakes, so intriguing, the MOST spicy one yet !! I was on the edge of my seat the entire time, non of the characters can catch a break - although there is some time for Rosie and her mates to have some spicy time which was delightful
The character development, twists and dynamics between each of the characters make for such a fun read - it’s rare to find a why chose where each character has such a different dynamic with the others!!
If you haven’t read this series WHY- this is your sign !!
This installation was possibly my favourite so far, it was high stakes, so intriguing, the MOST spicy one yet !! I was on the edge of my seat the entire time, non of the characters can catch a break - although there is some time for Rosie and her mates to have some spicy time which was delightful
The character development, twists and dynamics between each of the characters make for such a fun read - it’s rare to find a why chose where each character has such a different dynamic with the others!!
If you haven’t read this series WHY- this is your sign !!
April 25, 2026
4.5 rounded up. I need the next book!!!
April 29, 2026
Echhh. Idk.. I loved the first few books and it feels like there’s barely any progress to the storyline from this book - I can’t stand Farron anymore, he’s my least favorite character - the dragging out of Rose & Kels bond was way too long, like we gettttt it but come on already! The first time they ‘try’ to finally break the curse would have been a perfect spot to do it. Caspian being with them would’ve been easy to break the thrall (I know that’s exactly what the authors were going for) but the story could’ve been a lot shorter bc Kel would’ve gotten his power sooner. And a lot of the spicy scenes felt forced and not organic, and typically I’m all for the more the merrier but I got the ick with most of these ones. Continuing the series for Ez & Caspian mostly - and George & Aurelia 🫶🏽 hoping they get reunited
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 24, 2026
Poor fmc is an afterthought in her own story, why not just ctrl+delete her and write a mm romance when that's obviously what you're interested in writing. Waste of time and money for me as a reader.
April 8, 2026
ROLLERCOASTER OF EMOTIONS
Jam packed with action, spicy scenes, character growths, world building and some of the best quotes of yearning and love! There’s also some hilarious banter and it was my favorite!
Couldn’t put it down. Just when you think you have an idea of where it’s going, it takes a turn you don’t expect! Absolutely ate this up and cannot wait for book 6.
Jam packed with action, spicy scenes, character growths, world building and some of the best quotes of yearning and love! There’s also some hilarious banter and it was my favorite!
Couldn’t put it down. Just when you think you have an idea of where it’s going, it takes a turn you don’t expect! Absolutely ate this up and cannot wait for book 6.
April 5, 2026
It was a long wait for this fifth book, but it was well worth it!
I loved returning to Castletree. There were so many changes in the last book, and the cliffhanger with this one was intense. There was hero work and loss (I cried on an airplane) but this series continues to keep me in its chokehold! I can’t wait to find out what happens next!
I loved returning to Castletree. There were so many changes in the last book, and the cliffhanger with this one was intense. There was hero work and loss (I cried on an airplane) but this series continues to keep me in its chokehold! I can’t wait to find out what happens next!
April 20, 2026
5/5
My most anticipated read of the year did NOT disappoint! Being book 5 in my favourite series, i was obviously going to be optimistic going into it but i still wasn’t prepared for how much i loved this. This series truly does get better and better as it goes along and i genuinely think this is the authors’ best work yet. There so much angst in this instalment, so much tension, but mostly so much love. I really feel like love is such an important theme in this series and we got to experience it in different forms on a deeper level that was so beautiful to read about. There’s so much character development in this series but especially in this book and i really loved seeing Rosie (FMC) come into her own. I won’t spoil things but it was also very interesting and somewhat heartbreaking to see other characters lose themselves a little in this one too.
The spice (as always) was top tier and i was literally blushing(?!) at one point whilst reading the sauna scene - quite possibly the hottest thing I’ve ever read! I also must mention that obvs Ez remains my favourite Prince but the interactions between him and an unexpected character were one of my favourite things about this book!
Frozen By Stardust releases April 21st and if you’ve enjoyed the rest of the series, you’ll love this one too!
Would i read it again? I read this as an e-arc and I’m seriously considering reading my physical copy immediately 😅
Thankyou SO much @author.elizabeth.helen for letting me ARC read this, I’m so grateful 🫶🏻
My most anticipated read of the year did NOT disappoint! Being book 5 in my favourite series, i was obviously going to be optimistic going into it but i still wasn’t prepared for how much i loved this. This series truly does get better and better as it goes along and i genuinely think this is the authors’ best work yet. There so much angst in this instalment, so much tension, but mostly so much love. I really feel like love is such an important theme in this series and we got to experience it in different forms on a deeper level that was so beautiful to read about. There’s so much character development in this series but especially in this book and i really loved seeing Rosie (FMC) come into her own. I won’t spoil things but it was also very interesting and somewhat heartbreaking to see other characters lose themselves a little in this one too.
The spice (as always) was top tier and i was literally blushing(?!) at one point whilst reading the sauna scene - quite possibly the hottest thing I’ve ever read! I also must mention that obvs Ez remains my favourite Prince but the interactions between him and an unexpected character were one of my favourite things about this book!
Frozen By Stardust releases April 21st and if you’ve enjoyed the rest of the series, you’ll love this one too!
Would i read it again? I read this as an e-arc and I’m seriously considering reading my physical copy immediately 😅
Thankyou SO much @author.elizabeth.helen for letting me ARC read this, I’m so grateful 🫶🏻
April 20, 2026
4.75 ⭐️
Wow!! What a ride, the first 80% was great, the last 20% was mind blowing! I did not see this twist coming. Caspian I am so sorry for what they did to you 😂
A theme that really stood out to me in this book specifically, was how Rosalina faced what kind of leader she wanted to be. Her thought process in making the decision she did, and how they did, and more often didn’t, work out for the group. Her self awareness and desire to step into the role laid out for her was refreshing and fun to see this growth from her.
Kel also took on a leadership role and stoped hiding away from the world so much. And seeing him repair (and destroy) his relationship with Caspian was such a roller coaster.
Overall I think this book sets up the next one perfectly and I cannot wait to see how Farron (and Dayton) tackle what they’ve gotten themselves into.
Wow!! What a ride, the first 80% was great, the last 20% was mind blowing! I did not see this twist coming. Caspian I am so sorry for what they did to you 😂
A theme that really stood out to me in this book specifically, was how Rosalina faced what kind of leader she wanted to be. Her thought process in making the decision she did, and how they did, and more often didn’t, work out for the group. Her self awareness and desire to step into the role laid out for her was refreshing and fun to see this growth from her.
Kel also took on a leadership role and stoped hiding away from the world so much. And seeing him repair (and destroy) his relationship with Caspian was such a roller coaster.
Overall I think this book sets up the next one perfectly and I cannot wait to see how Farron (and Dayton) tackle what they’ve gotten themselves into.
April 28, 2026
This was such a major bummer. Waited for so long just for the whole series to be ruined, which is devastating because I thought the premise was so interesting. I reached a new level of rage with this one. I had seen reviews saying this book was just filler, and it definitely was, but beyond that it felt like the authors just wanted to throw in as many “twists” as possible to keep the story going which is super unnecessary. Like 7 books? Why?? And then on top of that, the “twists” were dumb and just made me angry. I have no reason to root for any of the characters—and in fact grew to very heavily dislike Farron, Rosalina, and Kel during this book—because they all make such stupid decisions. Caspian is the only redeemable character in the whole series. Baby boy just wants love but he’s forever their punching bag :( So much of this felt pointless and unnecessary to the point that I guess I’m Team Sira now lol. At least she’s not painfully dumb like the others are. The main thing that kept me reading the series was the romance aspect but even that became cringey and many moments felt immature to me. I did not finish this book because I just couldn’t take it anymore, and I will not be coming back for book 6 or 7. Big oofs.
April 18, 2026
OMFG
Still reeling about getting an ARC of this book but GODDAMN, it was so good. Elizabeth and Helen put crack in these books, I swear. I was hooked from book 1 and am still in love with every character in book 5. Something was always happening and the spice?! PHEW!!! They really took it up a notch with that group scene....I won't say much but I was feeling very jealous of quite literally every character in the scene. The pacing of the book was perfect, there weren't any moments where I felt like I had to put it down and come back, I was entirely engulfed in the story for the whole book.
EH are SO good at writing scenes that are so impactful and aren't extreme but they will have you wanting to jump out of bed in excitement. The battle scenes are PHENOMENAL too. This book has action, romance, grief, healing, angst, YEARNING, SPICE, emotion, soooo much is happening. EH truly know how to pull at your heart strings one minute, have you on the edge of your seat the next and then reading about someone being edged right after! I would love to continue to rant and rave but I don't want to give too much away since the book isn't out yet but if you've loved the other 4 books, you will love this one too.
Thank you SO much to Elizabeth and Helen for the ARC!
Still reeling about getting an ARC of this book but GODDAMN, it was so good. Elizabeth and Helen put crack in these books, I swear. I was hooked from book 1 and am still in love with every character in book 5. Something was always happening and the spice?! PHEW!!! They really took it up a notch with that group scene....I won't say much but I was feeling very jealous of quite literally every character in the scene. The pacing of the book was perfect, there weren't any moments where I felt like I had to put it down and come back, I was entirely engulfed in the story for the whole book.
EH are SO good at writing scenes that are so impactful and aren't extreme but they will have you wanting to jump out of bed in excitement. The battle scenes are PHENOMENAL too. This book has action, romance, grief, healing, angst, YEARNING, SPICE, emotion, soooo much is happening. EH truly know how to pull at your heart strings one minute, have you on the edge of your seat the next and then reading about someone being edged right after! I would love to continue to rant and rave but I don't want to give too much away since the book isn't out yet but if you've loved the other 4 books, you will love this one too.
Thank you SO much to Elizabeth and Helen for the ARC!
April 26, 2026
I had to stop reading just so I could put this small review because it’s bothering me that bad. Literally every character is together, my least favorite part of this series is the MM, but I always skip those parts. And, I hate the way Ezryn is being done like it’s being pushed on him and he says “Her body is the only one I crave” he isn’t interested in the whole MM thing and it’s like being forced on him. It’s nice to have at least one character that just wants Rosie, and it’s frustrating that the authors are trying to push this on the only one that does. All in all I’m just not liking this one as much as the past books. I’m disappointed because this series has been one of my favorites for so long. It seems like the FMC is an afterthought in her book and it’s all about the MM. I do plan to finish this one but I’m struggling to get through it.
May 8, 2026
3,5 ⭐️
So yeah, the story is good, but a bit long- and for the first time ever, I think there's too much spice, haha.
I mean 50/50 story and smut
Great as audiobook!
Will I continue? I'll probably say no. But then somehow be back...
So yeah, the story is good, but a bit long- and for the first time ever, I think there's too much spice, haha.
I mean 50/50 story and smut
Great as audiobook!
Will I continue? I'll probably say no. But then somehow be back...
April 27, 2026
Will never ever get enough of Rosie and her princes!
I love how each book introduces new twists and plots that keep me on the edge of my seat the whole time! With this being the first book with all the mates together, I was NOT disappointed by all the love and shenanigans that went on! I adore each and every couple and how the entire group has such a loving dynamic.
I'm both super nervous and super excited for the next two books! Literally have no idea where this series is going but I'm along for the sexy ride!
I love how each book introduces new twists and plots that keep me on the edge of my seat the whole time! With this being the first book with all the mates together, I was NOT disappointed by all the love and shenanigans that went on! I adore each and every couple and how the entire group has such a loving dynamic.
I'm both super nervous and super excited for the next two books! Literally have no idea where this series is going but I'm along for the sexy ride!
May 6, 2026
No me aportó mucho, casi me da bloqueo lector 2.5⭐
April 26, 2026
Broken by Daylight got its claws in me hard but this fell short. Will I continue? Yea, I’ll forever ride for Ez (and Cas) but this one missed so much of the tension that I loved in the previous books. Not much moved the story forward other than that longggggg awaited moment *finally*.
Biggest complaints:
• Some “vague” newish plot ideas (Cas & George’s past, you rang?) are introduced that feel like they’re there to keep this series plopping along.
• Not enough forward movement with George and his memories and what he’s working on. It feels too important to have been put on the back-burner until the very end of this one.
• Kel and Cas. Maybe a wildly unpopular opinion but….they’re better apart. Throw in the towel. This book officially turned me off of their walking the thin line situationship. Where’s the light at the end of this tunnel? Because Kel is never fully getting over his trust issues and Cas becomes so insecure with Kel it tanks his character development. They don’t make each other better and it’s not an enjoyable cat-mouse toxicity anymore.
• Wrenley was a non-participant.
Biggest complaints:
• Some “vague” newish plot ideas (Cas & George’s past, you rang?) are introduced that feel like they’re there to keep this series plopping along.
• Not enough forward movement with George and his memories and what he’s working on. It feels too important to have been put on the back-burner until the very end of this one.
• Kel and Cas. Maybe a wildly unpopular opinion but….they’re better apart. Throw in the towel. This book officially turned me off of their walking the thin line situationship. Where’s the light at the end of this tunnel? Because Kel is never fully getting over his trust issues and Cas becomes so insecure with Kel it tanks his character development. They don’t make each other better and it’s not an enjoyable cat-mouse toxicity anymore.
• Wrenley was a non-participant.
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