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Given to the Fae: The Second Dark Realms Duet

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Three fae spies on the mission of their lives. One Fate-Touched slave they crave to possess. In a journey across worlds where humans exist for the pleasure of other creatures, will they protect their captive—or ensure her demise?

I was brought to a slave outpost on a dying rock as a child. For years, I've kept my head down, hoping I’m not noticed. The new Masters never understand what I am, why I'm dangerous, why they should leave me alone.

But they learn.

They learn, or they die. For I am Kismet. Fate-Touched. I can't be hurt without fate delivering swift punishment to those who harm me.

Until the day three fae traders arrive—beautiful, cunning, and dangerous. The first beings to be immune to fate's wrath.

Locke, the cold mage who claims that humans are merely deceptive enemies yet watches me with heat in his eyes.

Morgan, the half-orc whose gentle touch belies his broken past.

Jak, the healer who mends more than just flesh, making me yearn for an impossible freedom.

When they take me from the only place I've ever known to be sold in the Dark Realms, I discover they're not what they pretend to be. They come from another place.

A place where humans are free.

Their molten gazes contradict every instinct I've honed for survival. Each lingering touch an exquisite promise that pulls me deeper into their webs. As an intoxicating power rises within me, can I trust their caresses? Or should I listen to reason and give in to the shadows that have kept me safe, the ones that whisper my name in the dark?

Even a Fate-Touched must eventually sacrifice for survival here—and in the Dark Realms, fate will take its price in blood.

272 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 22, 2025

54 people are currently reading
46 people want to read

About the author

Kyra Alessy

33 books495 followers
Dark Fantasies. Dark Antiheroes. Dark Romance.

Kyra was 18 when she read her first romance, 19 when she left the US for the UK, 20 when she decided to stay in London, 25 when she met her now husband, 30 when she got married, 31 when she had kid 1, 33 when she had kid 2, and 36 when she was diagnosed as autistic.

She now lives a few miles outside London with her husband, the two (likely neurodivergent) kids, and a cuddly cocker spaniel named Patch who likes to roll in bird crap.

Not all of her stories have neurodivergent FMCs but representation is important, especially when so many women are not diagnosed until well into later life!

She writes PNR, Romantasy, and Contemporary why choose where the enemies to lovers journey is rough but worth it!

Take a look at her website, or subscribe to the newsletter for info on release dates, exclusive content and other general awesomeness from the worlds and characters she’s created.


Follow her on Instagram, Goodreads, Twitter or Facebook for all the up-to-date info on release dates, exclusive content and other general awesomeness from the Dark Brothers' world - where the road to happily ever after might be rough, but its well worth the journey!!



The best place to talk about her books is on Discord, where there’s a channel for every series and the spoiler threads!

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5 stars
46 (47%)
4 stars
33 (34%)
3 stars
12 (12%)
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3 (3%)
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3 (3%)
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
Profile Image for Cécile Smits .
1,448 reviews284 followers
July 13, 2025
Kyra,what do you do to me??
I love you,but the things you make me feel……
I know the Dark Realms is a horrible place to be.
And i know that slaves have an awful life there.
But what Bryn goes through is even worse!
So,when Ogdan,her owner at The Barrack gave her to Locke,Morgan and Jak,i started to have a little hope.
That these fae,who were undercover trying to roll up a slavetrading business,were somehow going to help her.
That,once they got to know her better,they’d care enough to get her to the Light Realms.
Even if Locke kept up appearances with Bere,the slave trader they were travelling with,that she was to be sold to the fighting pits.
Because they díd save her from that asshole Warrior,who knows what she is,when he was going to allow her to be harmed beyond belief.
But that cliffhanger crashed my hope…..and i don’t know how to fix my broken heart!
Please,please tell me everything will be alright……before i lose my mind???
Please,please give me Courted by the Fae!!!
Profile Image for Darcy.
2,134 reviews24 followers
July 13, 2025
We dive back into the Dark Realms but with Bryn and I instantly love her character. She is this incredibly smart and resilient, you can see instantly that she is different. She is Fate-Touched and if anyone hurts her will end up hurt. One day things quickly change when we meet Locke, Morgan, and Jak. I have very mixed feelings about Locke as he has a very cold demeanor at times. Morgan and Jak have you won over very quickly. The story is packed full of drama, suspense, action, and a bit of mystery. It will quickly pull you in and keep you glued to it. Yes, there are possible triggers but I will say they are tastefully written. The ending of this book will leave you in shock. It has me super excited for the next book in the series. This is definitely a fantastic read that doesn’t disappoint.
Profile Image for Deborah.
828 reviews13 followers
July 17, 2025
We first met Jak in the Harbinger duet, but this time he’s no healer and he is on a mission with his friends? I’m not really sure if they are, they certainly don’t seem to treat each other as friends or found family and between Locke and Morgan, Locke is certainly in charge.
Bryan is fate touched, which isn’t to say that her masters haven’t found ways around it.
When fate puts Bryan in their ‘care’ things begin to change.
I got so angry with Locke, he was manipulative liar. And just when I thought I couldn’t hate him anymore, the ending happened.
I loved Jak, he was a favourite of mine from the first duet and no change there. I’m still unsure about Morgan, he’s definitely growing on me.
I swear, if Kyra Alessy can make me care about Locke in the next book, well I don’t know what I will do……………suggestions please
Profile Image for the_bibliophagist.
737 reviews10 followers
July 22, 2025
Bryn is a human slave living in a world where humans have no rights and are treated awful. Locke, Morgan, and Jak are spies on a mission and are undercover. To stay undercover they buy Bryn and transport her to the pits to sell her. On their journey, they discover many truths and lies about each other.
I love Bryn and feel bad for the life she has. I like Jak and Morgan because they seem like they have a conscience. Locke only cares about the mission and nothing else which shows with how he treats people. I enjoyed the plot and how entertaining it is. Of course, this ends on a cliffhanger that I definitely didn't see coming. I can't wait for the next one.
7 reviews
July 22, 2025
I swear I say it every review but dang it: Kyra Alessy has done it again! In this dark, addictive sequel, we follow Bryn (a Fate-Touched slave) whose very blood brings destruction to those who harm her that is until three fae traders show up who are OBVIOUSLY and more than what they seem. The chemistry between Bryn and the fae trio (Locke, Morgan, and Jak) is magnetic, but what really hooked me was her fire, her wit, and how deeply layered this world is. A brutal and beautiful journey across realms full of power plays, tension, and slow-burn heat. The Dark Realms have held my human mind captive once more.
40 reviews
July 22, 2025
This author has hit it out of the field again with her latest book. If you are a fan of the Dark Realm books you have an inkling of what is coming. Ifyou don’t , we’ll hold on for the ride because it is dark, fun and quite the adventure. Plenty of Alphas to choose from (why choose) and a feisty heroine who has endured a lot! Love the characters, love the premise! I hope we get a lot more stories set in this realm.
Profile Image for Jamie Williams.
503 reviews9 followers
July 31, 2025
This book pulled me in right from the start. The world that Kyra has created with this series is dark, heartbreaking, and tragic, but Bryn is a beacon of resilience and strength. The MMC’s are still a little bit of a puzzle for me…I haven’t quite figured them out yet. Jak is definitely my favorite so far, followed by Morgan. Right now, I’m not really a fan of Locke…we will see what happens in the next book. I can’t believe the way she left us hanging, and I really need the next book soon!!
Profile Image for Danii.
597 reviews7 followers
July 22, 2025
A lot of heavy topics but as always KA knows how to wield them into a gripping, heartwrenching and addictive story.
"She cries harder, wanting so badly to believe and my heart breaks because my words are hollow.
Hope.
That’s what she feels, I realize with a jolt. When has she ever had that? Maybe never before. That’s what Locke has given her. Awful, awful hope."
And also as always: a cliffhanger! I hope the second book is already written and KA doesn't let me suffering too long.
Profile Image for Mrs A.
1,371 reviews29 followers
July 19, 2025
This was easy to get into. Well paced, with plenty of drama and twists. Bryn is a strong and likeable character who has been through a lot but still remains kind. Watching her relationship grow with Locke, Jake and Morgan was intriguing. There’s still a long way to go for them to a strong unit and I can’t wait to see how things progress
8 reviews
July 20, 2025
Oh my goodness! Where to start
I have enjoyed this series a lot so far! Kyra is a wonderful author!
Given to the fae is kind of a show burn but picks up in the middle.
The story follows a slave human named Bryn on a journey to get home.
Jak is a sweetheart but that ending ugh
I can't wait for the next one
Profile Image for Alia .
47 reviews1 follower
July 22, 2025
I really like the Dark Realms series and this installment kept up in pacing and content. Bryn shows great strength and resilience toward everything that comes her way. Enjoyable read! Can’t wait for the next one!
1 review
July 23, 2025
Love it! Poor human

Wow! Leave me hanging. Write fast, Alessy. I love the human and her struggle, the way her mystery is unfolding. Damn, Locke. I really want everyone to get that they deserve and soon!
186 reviews6 followers
July 29, 2025
The story started a bid slow. The story is good, liked the characters and the world building. There is some spice, it's a why choose story. Ends on a cliff hanger, check your triggers. I recommend this book to dark fantasy lovers
66 reviews2 followers
July 22, 2025
Read it all, but the MMC is unforgivable

I loved the first two books. This book has so much abuse that it's piled on and piled on. And one of the main perpetrators is one of the MMCs. He is completely irredeemable after this book. There is no amount of groveling or anything that would make it realistic for her to somehow care for him again. I cannot, in good conscience, recommend people read the book.

I cannot believe that her ability somehow didn't react to him. It should have, and that is a huge letdown, that the person her power deemed safe is as bad as her other abusers. I will not read the next one, as any HEA after this will feel forced.
Profile Image for Rachel Kinsolving.
47 reviews2 followers
July 22, 2025
Given to the Fae is the 3rd book in The Dark Realms, and the first of the newest duet. Although you do not HAVE to read the first two, the world will make a lot more sense if you do.

And, let's be honest, you're going to want to read them. (especially the novella featuring a special little character from the first duet, Gwennie. Gah, I love her sm)


ANYWAY, enough of my rambling and ONTO THE REVIEW.

I have been (im)patiently waiting for GTTF to release and could not wait to scoop this up. This is another why-choose, dark romance novel featuring our FMC, Bryn, who was born into the slave trade in the Dark Realm. In true Kyra fashion, there's a major twist in something we haven't encountered before in these Realms: fate touched.

Then you introduce our MMC's love interests, Morgan (drool), Jack, and Locke. If you know me, you know I'm a harsh critic - especially with why choose love interests. Let's start with my fav.

Morgan....sigh. Mountain Morgan. I love you so. To me, there really is nothing better than a mountain of a man who is all growly on the outside but actually a big cinnamon roll for the FMC on the inside. I have no clue what it is, but this type of character will get me every. single. time. I love you, Morgan. Stay perfect.

Jak. I'm not sure how this exactly supposed to be pronounced ... but my brother's name is Jack and that's just *gags* gross. So to me, Jak is a French name. Like "jock" instead of jack. Moving on... Jan has a lot of potential. TBH, I feel like he was the most neglected out of the 3. Not necessarily by the FMC, but by the story in general. I wish he would've had more of a presence throughout the story because it made his connection with Bryn seem a bit superficial. But honestly, I think that will probably be corrected in the next book.

Locke. You bastard. Your stupid and (supposedly) handsome face is the one I see at night when I can't sleep. I love you and I hate you. That's all I have to say about you for now.


PROS:
Character dynamics - I am a huge stickler for each character having their own personality. A major mistake most why-choose authors make is either 1. focusing too much on the physical relationship or 2. lack luster characters. I have read SO MANY that have a "main" love in the RH while the others are just kinda left to fall to the side. But not you, Kyra. Not you.

World building - I love the world. I love the concepts. Genuinely, this is an SJM level world. Kyra, you could do SO MUCH with this world it's insane.

Plot - again, the plot isn't lost in the smut.


CONS:
Length - this is only a con for me because I want more lol. I WANT IT ALL, KYRA... Sorry for yelling, but I could live in this world full time in never be bored. I want the dark and depraved side of the Dark Realms, not just the slave trade. The creatures. The travel. All of it. For me, this was a pretty quick read but it might not be for everyone.


All in all, 5/5 do recommend please come again.
Profile Image for FloofyMooseReads.
562 reviews97 followers
July 20, 2025
This is the first book of the Kismet Duet, and the third book of the Dark Realms, a dark fantasy, dark romance series. The prior duet in this series does not need to have been read before starting this book. I received an advance review copy and my thoughts are my own. Thank you to the author for my eArc.

Tropes and themes include:
✨Slave/guards
✨Why choose (mfmm)
✨Forced proximity
✨Fae x humans
✨Power imbalance
✨Betrayal
✨Secret identities
✨He combs and braids her hair

Rating: 5/5 Stars 3/5 Flames

The Lovely: This book had me kicking my feet, giggling and biting my nails. The Kismet concept is unique - anyone who does her physical harm is hurt themselves - except for three mysterious fae. Hmm. This was a dark but fun read that I I couldn’t put down and I enjoyed getting to know the main characters.

Recommendation: I alpha read this book early in the year so while this was a re-read, I certainly didn’t remember everything. That made this engaging and I read it in one sitting. And wow what a cliffhanger of an ending - on two fronts! I can’t wait for the next book. If you like a dark why choose fantasy romance in a kind of dystopian setting, I think you would like this book.
264 reviews
July 19, 2025
Bryn is a human slave with a secret. Anyone that tries to harm her receives an equal dose of karma. So people learn. They learn not to touch the fate touched, The Kismet. Bryn is sold to a new slaver and is eventually designated to be a broodmare\s** slave to fighters at the Pit. While she traverses brutal landscapes to a future she's resigned to, three fae maintain a ruthless grip on her fate. All while keeping secrets of their own.

This is a grim tale where humans are dehumanized and referred to in livestock terms, males labeled as "bulls," their role reduced to breeding. Females endure brutal treatment, their suffering normalized within this twisted society. Brynn narrowly avoids direct assaults, yet somehow, the three fae responsible evade any semblance of retribution.

The characters are distinctive and you really feel for Bryn's plight. Morgan, the half orc, is the first to show any kindness to her. Jak is a healer who tends to her wounds. Finally you have the cold, calculating, mission-obsessed Locke. He's dead set on their agenda and no one, not even a human slave, will stop them.

If you’ve read Kyra Alessy before, this will feel pretty familiar. The darkness, angst, the intensity, morally grey males, and a female character that may or may not be tougher than most think. Another quick page turner.

Triggers:
Non-con
Dub-con
Bullying
Slavery (Abuse, assault)

Tropes:
Fantasy
MFMM
Damsel in Distress
Chosen One
Profile Image for Booksbystarlightandshadows .
550 reviews3 followers
July 27, 2025
I had a soft spot for Jak after meeting him in the previous books and was interested to see where his story would take him. This is very much Bryn's story though and I really liked the fate-touched concept. Bryn is so resilient despite having no one in her corner and everyone being out to use her. I really need karma for some of the characters in this book for how they treat her. The MMCs soon realise there is more to Bryn than meets the eye and I loved how their connections developed, particularly with Jax and Morgan.

Locke though is a different kettle of fish; what have you done? Locke was 100% my guy on paper until he wasn't and I cannot see a way out of this one, particularly after that final chapter. I am trusting the process big time as like Bryn, I was holding onto that glimmer of hope after so much bleakness. Warrior is giving Fiana from the first duet a run for her money too; Alessy does cruel villains so well!

My interpretation of the star system;
3 stars - I enjoyed it; would read the author again
4 stars - I really liked it; I am invested and definitely want more from this author/series
5 stars - I loved it; I engaged with this book completely until I finished it and it is one I will re-read
Profile Image for Rochelle .
102 reviews9 followers
September 28, 2025
📚🩷 ARC Thoughts and First Impressions 🩷📚

This story feels like stepping into a universe where survival is a gamble, desire is a weapon, and fate itself has teeth. Our heroine has lived her whole life under the crushing weight of captivity, yet she carries a power that makes her both untouchable and dangerously sought after.

Then come three strangers—deadly, beautiful, and far more complicated than they first appear. Each one offers something different: icy strength that hides a burning hunger, gentle hands that carry scars of their own, and a healer’s touch that awakens impossible hope. Together, they unravel everything she thought she knew about herself, about loyalty, and about freedom.

The tension here is magnetic. It’s dark romantasy at its finest—brimming with shadows, betrayal, slow-burning trust, and the kind of chemistry that makes you ache for more. It’s not just about survival anymore. It’s about desire, sacrifice, and discovering whether love can bloom in a world that thrives on chains and blood.

If you love morally grey heroes, a heroine who refuses to break, and a plot soaked in both danger and desire—this one will have you hooked from the very first page. 🖤✨
Profile Image for Stephanie Runyon.
409 reviews11 followers
October 26, 2025
Emotional betrayal

Morgan, Jak, and Locke are undercover to find out who has been kidnapping humans from The Light Realm. Bere has brought them to The Barracks. Locke notices one of the slaves is standing of to the side. Something is different about her.

Bryn is not human. She is Fate Touched. Anyone who hurts her will be punished by fate. She has always been at The Barracks and didn't believe she would leave. She is loaded into a cart. 3 of the slavers are Fae and she knows something is different about them.

Secrets are held between them. Jak and Morgan tell Locke they should take Bryn to The Light Realm. Both of them feel a connection to her. Locke refuses to listen to his feelings that are growing, refusing to abandon their mission.. However, as time passes shared feel ings begin to become undeniable...
Profile Image for Daria.
1,976 reviews42 followers
July 19, 2025
Fate Stirs the Pot
This a smidgen of dark not too crazy. Fun in some spots dangerous in others. Im pretty sure I even cheered fate a few times. Cuz some bodies just needed hurting.
The mission is all that matters. But then she happens.
In a world unkind to humans Bryn survives...mostly. a hidden hand of fate in her corner and various accidents happen when she's around.
A set of spies pretending I the dark realm a .mission to change lives. They run into situations that shock and anger them. With Bryn under their care how important is the mission? Will betrayal be the price?
Bryn is amazing shows tenacity and strength. The Fae one mistake and it all comes crashing down. Can feeling be put off? Can fate be ignored?
Profile Image for Lani.
252 reviews7 followers
September 18, 2025
yeah, I can't get behind a book trying to make her rapists the good guys. hard pass. I read the trigger warnings not realizing the MMCs would be the noncon and abusers. There is no consent when she is a slave being sold (by them) and two of the MMCs finger her till she orgasms. Two of them also physically assault her causing injury. This is not a dark romance. It's abuse and SA.
26 reviews1 follower
August 28, 2025
I don't typically end up disliking the "jerk" MC of the group, but dang Locke... I don't like this cliffhanger 😭 so cruel and evil and I don't want to wait to get to the good ending! *huffs*
I was so ready for her she-hulking only to realise that there wasn't any more chapters!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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