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Monsters of Faery #6
Captive to the Shadow Prince
My answer to being kidnapped by a fae prince? A knife to his throat.
Falling into another world and getting captured by an arrogant, shadow-wielding fae prince wasn't on my to-do list. Neither was being told I’m his soulmate, or discovering that behind the glamor of a beautiful, violet-haired prince stood a seven-foot-tall winged beast.
Stabbing him seemed like the best option.
But the Prince of Shadows needs to be betrothed to avoid being sold to a goddess by his father, and he's desperate enough to make a access to the glittering world of the fae nobility in return for pretending to be his devoted mate.
He's a liar. A traitor. A man designed to be a weapon of the gods—and a passionate, complicated male whose pretenses of affection feel all too real. If I surrender to his darkness, I know there's no coming back.
Every day draws us closer to the celestial alignment that will turn my prince into a force of destruction unlike anything Faery has ever seen. In the game of gods and monsters, all the pieces are on the board, and I’m the unexpected player. Only one question
Will my soulmate’s shadows be there to catch me when I fall?
Or am I only a pawn in his game?
"Captive to the Prince of Shadows" is a complete romance with a guaranteed happily-ever-after. As the series finale, it is best read after the other books; a preface with a summary of the major players and events of the prior books is included as a refresher or for first-time readers. This steamy fated mates romance features a morally gray shadow daddy and an academic determined to get her way.
For a full list of content warnings, please see mallorydunlin.com/catalog.
Falling into another world and getting captured by an arrogant, shadow-wielding fae prince wasn't on my to-do list. Neither was being told I’m his soulmate, or discovering that behind the glamor of a beautiful, violet-haired prince stood a seven-foot-tall winged beast.
Stabbing him seemed like the best option.
But the Prince of Shadows needs to be betrothed to avoid being sold to a goddess by his father, and he's desperate enough to make a access to the glittering world of the fae nobility in return for pretending to be his devoted mate.
He's a liar. A traitor. A man designed to be a weapon of the gods—and a passionate, complicated male whose pretenses of affection feel all too real. If I surrender to his darkness, I know there's no coming back.
Every day draws us closer to the celestial alignment that will turn my prince into a force of destruction unlike anything Faery has ever seen. In the game of gods and monsters, all the pieces are on the board, and I’m the unexpected player. Only one question
Will my soulmate’s shadows be there to catch me when I fall?
Or am I only a pawn in his game?
"Captive to the Prince of Shadows" is a complete romance with a guaranteed happily-ever-after. As the series finale, it is best read after the other books; a preface with a summary of the major players and events of the prior books is included as a refresher or for first-time readers. This steamy fated mates romance features a morally gray shadow daddy and an academic determined to get her way.
For a full list of content warnings, please see mallorydunlin.com/catalog.
Unknown Binding
First published August 21, 2025
184 people are currently reading
558 people want to read
About the author
Mallory Dunlin
18 books408 followersMallory Dunlin is a certified monster lover who cut her reader eyeteeth on fantasy epics. She combines her reading passions into writing romantasy novels with powerful women and traumatized, dangerous, non-human male leads.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
August 27, 2025
a lot of the time I was confused (my fault), but I was THERE
MAIN CHARACTER NAMES AND AGES
Cedar Hannigan (32) | Pelleas Xirangyl (1,070)
FEATURES
∘ fantasy romance
∘ fated mates
∘ monstrous form
∘ kidnaps her
∘ enemies to lovers (her)
∘ inconvenience to lovers (him)
∘ fake betrothal
∘ neurodivergent rep
REVIEW
It’s been almost a year since I’ve read Crowned by the Fae King, and as such, there was a lot (names/characters/courts) I forgot. I was hesitant to jump back in without rereading, but there are explanations and recaps before and throughout the book that helped fill in a lot of gaps.
One character I’ve never forgotten was Pelleas. From the moment I was introduced to this shadow prince, I needed more! I never would’ve thought the smug, flirty, show-off was so sensitive and insecure, but what a pleasant surprise it was.
And Cedar was his perfect match. She saw right through Pelleas’s facade and was always by his side. From stabbing him to fighting him to stealing something precious for him, she matched his intensity. She had so much compassion without losing her backbone—a tricky line to tread.
I was also very happy to see Cedar was confirmed autistic, rather than hinted at through subtext, as is so often the case. She shined as a main character.
The world-building was intense. The explanations for events in previous books became so convoluted that I struggled to keep up. I didn’t understand the games the gods (and Pelleas’s father, Tathalin) were playing, nor did I FULLY understand exactly what it had to do with past and present main characters. Some of the decisions characters made and how they got us from point A to point B also had my head spinning. It was a lot of information that was beyond me.
But that confusion didn’t take away from my enjoyment or amazement at the world Mallory Dunlin has created. It is bittersweet this series has come to an end, but I cannot wait to see what comes next.
OW/OM DRAMA past OW — Pelleas was in a relationship for a couple centuries before Cedar |||
not really OM — Cedar is placed in a situation where she has to get married to someone else, but she hates him |||
not really/very minor OW — Pelleas is a lil flirt but in an unserious way
CHEATING not really, but see above
THIRD ACT BREAKUP none
ENDING HEA — few months later epilogue
POV singular (Cedar) / first person
SPICE LEVEL 4-4.5 / 5
RATING 4 / 5
MAIN CHARACTER NAMES AND AGES
Cedar Hannigan (32) | Pelleas Xirangyl (1,070)
FEATURES
∘ fantasy romance
∘ fated mates
∘ monstrous form
∘ kidnaps her
∘ enemies to lovers (her)
∘ inconvenience to lovers (him)
∘ fake betrothal
∘ neurodivergent rep
REVIEW
It’s been almost a year since I’ve read Crowned by the Fae King, and as such, there was a lot (names/characters/courts) I forgot. I was hesitant to jump back in without rereading, but there are explanations and recaps before and throughout the book that helped fill in a lot of gaps.
One character I’ve never forgotten was Pelleas. From the moment I was introduced to this shadow prince, I needed more! I never would’ve thought the smug, flirty, show-off was so sensitive and insecure, but what a pleasant surprise it was.
And Cedar was his perfect match. She saw right through Pelleas’s facade and was always by his side. From stabbing him to fighting him to stealing something precious for him, she matched his intensity. She had so much compassion without losing her backbone—a tricky line to tread.
I was also very happy to see Cedar was confirmed autistic, rather than hinted at through subtext, as is so often the case. She shined as a main character.
The world-building was intense. The explanations for events in previous books became so convoluted that I struggled to keep up. I didn’t understand the games the gods (and Pelleas’s father, Tathalin) were playing, nor did I FULLY understand exactly what it had to do with past and present main characters. Some of the decisions characters made and how they got us from point A to point B also had my head spinning. It was a lot of information that was beyond me.
But that confusion didn’t take away from my enjoyment or amazement at the world Mallory Dunlin has created. It is bittersweet this series has come to an end, but I cannot wait to see what comes next.
OW/OM DRAMA past OW — Pelleas was in a relationship for a couple centuries before Cedar |||
not really OM — Cedar is placed in a situation where she has to get married to someone else, but she hates him |||
not really/very minor OW — Pelleas is a lil flirt but in an unserious way
CHEATING not really, but see above
THIRD ACT BREAKUP none
ENDING HEA — few months later epilogue
POV singular (Cedar) / first person
SPICE LEVEL 4-4.5 / 5
RATING 4 / 5
July 31, 2025
I'm honestly so happy to have received an ARC for this book - I got it today and I just binged read it after work and I gotta say - it definitely lives up to my expectations (which were high)!
Some spoiler free quick thoughts:
* I love the way Mallory writes her fae - the courtly fae and gods and worldbuilding and such - they're such devilish tricksters and horrible and loyal and fun (with varying levels) - I feel like she actually nails the fae archtype in a way that makes them feel just slightly left of center in the right freakish way.
* Pelleas is very cute actually - he's pouty and vain and insecure and appreciative and just like one tap away from shattering and has little hobbies/interests like crafts and is a big chatterbox about magic but also competent and hot when need be (a little tricksy and seductive but it's like 90% a front)
* Cedar, our female MC, is a little autistic, highly curious, and hyper independent and not all that trusting - I don't think she gets as much development as Pelleas but I think this might also just be that she is the main POV
* romance was good! really some very sweet beautiful scenes where it makes sense that they would open up and fall in love with each other
* Pelleas is so happy to be loved! (although most of the time doesn't believe it's happening to him for like 85% of the book) - intrusive thought but he really does have like 50% of Frozen Elsa's backstory (♪ conceal don't feel ♪)
* This is a long book (I think like 500+ pages?) but it makes sense given that this is the series finale
* I haven't really reviewed the other books in this series (because I had kind of binged read most of them except for Caught in the Basilisk's Gaze) but I would honestly really like to applaud how well written the fantasy and world building is. I actually think the conflict climax of this book really makes sense in a way that is true to both the existing characterization and world building.
* smut is pretty hot ngl (side note: I do believe she posts content warnings in full - there is slight kink and exhibitionism and vague bdsm)
* I feel like I'm reading advanced fanfic in a good way - I love tropes when they're executed well and we have fake dating and learning fae courtly manners and fish out of water as the starting point for our couple
* brought back all the characters for the finale, actually a good final fight scene
* the soulmate stuff, wild magic, and gods plot build up in the previous books gets explained pretty decently
Highlights Mild Spoiler Section:
Ahhh, I'm so sad this series is ending but this was a great series finale.
Some spoiler free quick thoughts:
* I love the way Mallory writes her fae - the courtly fae and gods and worldbuilding and such - they're such devilish tricksters and horrible and loyal and fun (with varying levels) - I feel like she actually nails the fae archtype in a way that makes them feel just slightly left of center in the right freakish way.
* Pelleas is very cute actually - he's pouty and vain and insecure and appreciative and just like one tap away from shattering and has little hobbies/interests like crafts and is a big chatterbox about magic but also competent and hot when need be (a little tricksy and seductive but it's like 90% a front)
* Cedar, our female MC, is a little autistic, highly curious, and hyper independent and not all that trusting - I don't think she gets as much development as Pelleas but I think this might also just be that she is the main POV
* romance was good! really some very sweet beautiful scenes where it makes sense that they would open up and fall in love with each other
* Pelleas is so happy to be loved! (although most of the time doesn't believe it's happening to him for like 85% of the book) - intrusive thought but he really does have like 50% of Frozen Elsa's backstory (♪ conceal don't feel ♪)
* This is a long book (I think like 500+ pages?) but it makes sense given that this is the series finale
* I haven't really reviewed the other books in this series (because I had kind of binged read most of them except for Caught in the Basilisk's Gaze) but I would honestly really like to applaud how well written the fantasy and world building is. I actually think the conflict climax of this book really makes sense in a way that is true to both the existing characterization and world building.
* smut is pretty hot ngl (side note: I do believe she posts content warnings in full - there is slight kink and exhibitionism and vague bdsm)
* I feel like I'm reading advanced fanfic in a good way - I love tropes when they're executed well and we have fake dating and learning fae courtly manners and fish out of water as the starting point for our couple
* brought back all the characters for the finale, actually a good final fight scene
* the soulmate stuff, wild magic, and gods plot build up in the previous books gets explained pretty decently
Highlights Mild Spoiler Section:
Ahhh, I'm so sad this series is ending but this was a great series finale.
August 12, 2025
I am leaving an honest review as I received an ARC of this book:
Actual rating: 4.5/5
Trying to write this review without spoilers is tough because I have soooo much to say, but overall, it was great! It was a fantastic way to 1) end a series that has been interesting and nuanced, and 2) develop Pelleas as a character that has been threaded through the other novels.
I found that the character development of Pell was especially satisfying as the depth of his character is slowly revealed. It was also refreshing to see the FMC Cedar being both fearless and vulnerable at the same time. The representation was good as both characters dealt with trauma together rather than having one “fix” the other. I LOVED seeing the way Pelleus learned to accept himself, live in/inhabit his own body, and how Cedar’s special interest and human life really learned into supporting that work. This is not a “fell in love, now I’m magically healed” situation! The two put in the work both individually and together, slowly reaching out and letting down walls to trust each other.
Their relationship grew in a way that captured the essence of familiar tropes (he falls first, morally grey MMC, enemies-to-allies-to-lovers) but with creative elements added to it so it NEVER felt predictable. The spice to falling in love ratio was perfect for me as the two built their relationship and it was great to see how Pelleus and Cedar balanced each other to overcome the major challenges within the Court.
I know this was the end of a series, so it is a longer read. I think it is completely worth it if you have read the rest of the Monsters of Faery books. I think it would be a challenge to read this as a stand alone.
The lore drop of Raven Court was EXACTLY what I wanted from this story! I had been obsessed with understanding from the moment I read In the Claws of the Raven Prince and was happy to see this particular element wrapped up!
The pacing did drag just a little in places, but I think that was more because of the tension between the overarching plot and the intense focus of Pell and Cedar’s developing relationship. I felt like the balance between those two “parts” of the story got a little segmented in some parts, but it is because there were so many interesting elements of political intrigue blended with Ceder and Pelleus’s relationship building that there were times I was not sure which part of the story I wanted more of!
I want to applaud the way new characters were still introduced and given space within the story. The story didn’t abandon or flatten characters just to make room for a cameo of a previous character, but I also wish that I could have seen more previous novel a few characters in the final 100 pages.
While I still have questions about the Silver Coronation and the fate of a few characters, I don’t feel left on a cliffhanger. The plot had a few twists, but came together in the end to allow closure without the “perfect” ending. It really encapsulated the way the characters grew, changed, and looked to the future. The end of the “big bad” isn’t the end, it is just the beginning of creating a new life.
10/10 would recommend, BUT read the rest of the series first! I think thats what makes this all pay off.
Actual rating: 4.5/5
Trying to write this review without spoilers is tough because I have soooo much to say, but overall, it was great! It was a fantastic way to 1) end a series that has been interesting and nuanced, and 2) develop Pelleas as a character that has been threaded through the other novels.
I found that the character development of Pell was especially satisfying as the depth of his character is slowly revealed. It was also refreshing to see the FMC Cedar being both fearless and vulnerable at the same time. The representation was good as both characters dealt with trauma together rather than having one “fix” the other. I LOVED seeing the way Pelleus learned to accept himself, live in/inhabit his own body, and how Cedar’s special interest and human life really learned into supporting that work. This is not a “fell in love, now I’m magically healed” situation! The two put in the work both individually and together, slowly reaching out and letting down walls to trust each other.
Their relationship grew in a way that captured the essence of familiar tropes (he falls first, morally grey MMC, enemies-to-allies-to-lovers) but with creative elements added to it so it NEVER felt predictable. The spice to falling in love ratio was perfect for me as the two built their relationship and it was great to see how Pelleus and Cedar balanced each other to overcome the major challenges within the Court.
I know this was the end of a series, so it is a longer read. I think it is completely worth it if you have read the rest of the Monsters of Faery books. I think it would be a challenge to read this as a stand alone.
The lore drop of Raven Court was EXACTLY what I wanted from this story! I had been obsessed with understanding from the moment I read In the Claws of the Raven Prince and was happy to see this particular element wrapped up!
The pacing did drag just a little in places, but I think that was more because of the tension between the overarching plot and the intense focus of Pell and Cedar’s developing relationship. I felt like the balance between those two “parts” of the story got a little segmented in some parts, but it is because there were so many interesting elements of political intrigue blended with Ceder and Pelleus’s relationship building that there were times I was not sure which part of the story I wanted more of!
I want to applaud the way new characters were still introduced and given space within the story. The story didn’t abandon or flatten characters just to make room for a cameo of a previous character, but I also wish that I could have seen more previous novel a few characters in the final 100 pages.
While I still have questions about the Silver Coronation and the fate of a few characters, I don’t feel left on a cliffhanger. The plot had a few twists, but came together in the end to allow closure without the “perfect” ending. It really encapsulated the way the characters grew, changed, and looked to the future. The end of the “big bad” isn’t the end, it is just the beginning of creating a new life.
10/10 would recommend, BUT read the rest of the series first! I think thats what makes this all pay off.
August 7, 2025
This final book in the series did not disappoint! My first time as an ARC member as well, which was the icing on the cake😊 *Lots* of details harking back to previous books and characters, so you definitely need to read some prior Monsters of Faery books before you tackle this one. Even having read the others, I still have so many questions regarding the Silver Coronation, metaphysical changes in the characters, etc. Many questions still got answered in this finale, and it was great seeing our favorite characters come back to play. Lots of overlapping personalities! (kind of gave me Marvel: Endgame vibes?). Overall a SUPER creative read, very long and well worth it!
August 25, 2025
It’s the last book in Dunlin’s Monsters of Faery series! My favorite before this one was Caught in the Basilisk’s Gaze. Dunlin’s so good at writing characters who have had difficult lives without histrionic melodrama ad nauseum. They acknowledge their trauma but keep going.
My review is a work in progress.
First impressions:
::You’re really going to doubt the chemistry at first
::Mmmmm. Shadow restraints. Pelleas is a mildly sadistic shadow daddy fae prince 🥰
::Cedar is a brilliant archaeology professor on autism spectrum. Her wonder in the caves is a joy to read.
::I adore how the science of archaeology was woven into the liminal spaces where fae and the mortal world meet. And Cedar is fearless.
Cedar Hannigan,<\b> who is on the autism spectrum and has somehow survived the human child welfare system with her empathy and drive intact.
Pelleas,<\b> the fae crown prince of Raven Court who is xx years old, has been hiding his true chimerical form under a glamour for so long that it has damaged his body, even with its regenerative abilities. When he meets Cedar, a human, in fae’s cave system and realizes that she’s his fated mate, he finally has a way to escape his father’s plans to marry him to a cruel goddess. He believes that he was bred deliberately by the Raven King Tathalin for some unknown purpose.
Cedar blood-vows to be betrothed to him and possibly marry. It would be “fake dating,” except that failure means death for them both. There are no stars in her eyes; her decision to agree to the betrothal is practical and dispassionate.
We realize that while Pelleas hides behind his glamour of looking like a 100% fae prince, Cedar has also learned to mask her autism and taught herself to seem “normal” to the world around her. Their masks slowly start slipping.
Cedar soon discovers that Pelleas’s 24/7 glamour isn’t just damaging his health, it’s meant that for millennia that his ability to feel — in a tactile way — has been blocked. Sex is but a performance he cannot truly feel.
My review is a work in progress.
First impressions:
::You’re really going to doubt the chemistry at first
::Mmmmm. Shadow restraints. Pelleas is a mildly sadistic shadow daddy fae prince 🥰
::Cedar is a brilliant archaeology professor on autism spectrum. Her wonder in the caves is a joy to read.
::I adore how the science of archaeology was woven into the liminal spaces where fae and the mortal world meet. And Cedar is fearless.
Cedar Hannigan,<\b> who is on the autism spectrum and has somehow survived the human child welfare system with her empathy and drive intact.
Pelleas,<\b> the fae crown prince of Raven Court who is xx years old, has been hiding his true chimerical form under a glamour for so long that it has damaged his body, even with its regenerative abilities. When he meets Cedar, a human, in fae’s cave system and realizes that she’s his fated mate, he finally has a way to escape his father’s plans to marry him to a cruel goddess. He believes that he was bred deliberately by the Raven King Tathalin for some unknown purpose.
Cedar blood-vows to be betrothed to him and possibly marry. It would be “fake dating,” except that failure means death for them both. There are no stars in her eyes; her decision to agree to the betrothal is practical and dispassionate.
We realize that while Pelleas hides behind his glamour of looking like a 100% fae prince, Cedar has also learned to mask her autism and taught herself to seem “normal” to the world around her. Their masks slowly start slipping.
Cedar soon discovers that Pelleas’s 24/7 glamour isn’t just damaging his health, it’s meant that for millennia that his ability to feel — in a tactile way — has been blocked. Sex is but a performance he cannot truly feel.
“I don’t feel, not physically, not like you. I have knowledge of the pressure of your hand, of the temperature of your skin, but little else.” … Any response I give to perceived touch is a performance, Cedar, not a natural response.”<\blockquote>
Context:<\b> we are 90 years past the Annihilation War, in the Court of Tathalin, the Raven King. Pelleas is the least favored of Raven Court’s princes; nevertheless he is the crown prince. His youngest brother Ayre (book1) was banished after turned himself into monster — a chimera — so he could be a better weapon in the war.
Tathalin Xirangyl,<\b> the ancient, despotic Raven King and Pelleas’s father. In the aftermath of the Annihilation War, Raven Court has slowly been losing territory to the new courts being formed by the Furies, his sons and nephews.
Ayre<\b> (book 1) brother, half-monster Fury.
Sarcaryn (book ) cousin, the god of beauty, autumn, and sex.
Dain Sundamar,<\b> the demigod Stag King (book ), wife Leah; known as the “Beast of Phazikai“ after he massacred every single being in the city during the war.
Vaduin Khellair,<\b> Mirage Duke of the Court of Mercy (book 4), half-monster Fury
Varistan Yllaxira,<\b>the Lightning King (book ), a nephew of Raven King Tathelin. Half-monster Fury.
Xarcassah “Cass” Marys<\b> (book ), the King of the Court of Mercy. Half-monster Fury.
Omaxion,<\b> She Who Keeps the Ways, the goddess of seers and the places in between, a waywalker.
August 25, 2025
O. M. G!! I love Pelleas! I was super hyped for his story and I was so not disappointed with our charming and intriguing Raven Prince! I loved learning about him and getting under the glamor to get to the real Pelleas! I also really like Cedar with her intelligence and brilliance! She was definitely a great match for the Shadow Prince!
The tension between them throughout most of the book was absolutely amazing! It was just so fucking thick and wow can that prince use his words….how could Cedar not eventually fall for him when the real him started to break free! And hello unglamored Pelleas……🫦! I love the fake relationship trope, it is one of my favourites and the way the relationship develops between Pelleas and Cedar is a prime example of it! I was kicking my feet and giggling and I was also angry and crying throughout this book! Loved every second of it!
Now let me mention the plot….whew baby that was some epic conclusion to everything! As with the other books, Mallory was able to weave this amazingly enthralling and gripping tale! I was stuck on the edge of my seat for half of it and I highly enjoyed how things from other books threaded through out this one. How it was all brought together was just so good! Thank you Mallory for such an epic adventure with the Monsters of Faery!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
The tension between them throughout most of the book was absolutely amazing! It was just so fucking thick and wow can that prince use his words….how could Cedar not eventually fall for him when the real him started to break free! And hello unglamored Pelleas……🫦! I love the fake relationship trope, it is one of my favourites and the way the relationship develops between Pelleas and Cedar is a prime example of it! I was kicking my feet and giggling and I was also angry and crying throughout this book! Loved every second of it!
Now let me mention the plot….whew baby that was some epic conclusion to everything! As with the other books, Mallory was able to weave this amazingly enthralling and gripping tale! I was stuck on the edge of my seat for half of it and I highly enjoyed how things from other books threaded through out this one. How it was all brought together was just so good! Thank you Mallory for such an epic adventure with the Monsters of Faery!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
August 12, 2025
Fabulous conclusion to the series!! Cedar was an absolute delight to experience this story through- the pacing was on point, and there were some nice twists and turns I didn’t expect (but should have! The foreshadowing was there!). The spice was SPICY and had a different dynamic than that of the other books, but I have no complaints! Not my specific cup of tea but honestly? Mallory made me enjoy every second of it.
It was fun to watch Pelleas grow and change into the person he was all along underneath all his masks. Setting him against Cedar who masks for AuDHD (I think that was the term used) reasons was a beautiful parallel that allowed for greater understanding of both characters and how they present to the worlds they came from. While I can’t say I’m qualified to speak on the quality of her AuDHD representation, Cedar was a wonderful representative of those of us on the weird girls to scientist pipeline. I felt so seen!
I would have loved to see more of the characters from the previous books, but this isn’t THEIR book and their roles were appropriate. I am dying to read about the final climax from Dani and Vad’s perspective. Mallory Dunlin has added a new favorite to my bookshelf!
I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC and I am leaving this review freely.
It was fun to watch Pelleas grow and change into the person he was all along underneath all his masks. Setting him against Cedar who masks for AuDHD (I think that was the term used) reasons was a beautiful parallel that allowed for greater understanding of both characters and how they present to the worlds they came from. While I can’t say I’m qualified to speak on the quality of her AuDHD representation, Cedar was a wonderful representative of those of us on the weird girls to scientist pipeline. I felt so seen!
I would have loved to see more of the characters from the previous books, but this isn’t THEIR book and their roles were appropriate. I am dying to read about the final climax from Dani and Vad’s perspective. Mallory Dunlin has added a new favorite to my bookshelf!
I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC and I am leaving this review freely.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 6, 2025
What an epic wrap to this cleverly written series. While the book does encompass Cedar and Pelleas’s love story (and it absolutely is a love story, not just a fated mates/instalove tale) there are so many other storylines and plot lines from the previous books which are concluded herein. As such, it’s a lengthy read, but it doesn’t feel superfluous or dragged out. Mallory Dunlin is a gifted author who doesn’t insult readers with easy situations and characters, rather (she) gives them rich inner lives and allows them room to stumble into redemption. It’s been a joy to read this series and while I’m sorry to see it end, I’m excited for future projects.
I was fortunate to have received an advance reader copy from the author, and I’m sharing my honest review.
I was fortunate to have received an advance reader copy from the author, and I’m sharing my honest review.
August 20, 2025
What a masterpiece final book in this series! As a standalone it weaves all the plot threads throughout these great books together from a brand new perspective.
I loved Cedar’s reactions to life in Faery, she was such a breath of fresh air!
I got surprisingly emotional over rocks and history. I have literally NEVER gotten so in my feelings about the contemplation of history, so that was a first.
Pelleas is tortured by his burdens and has to live a life of constant lies just to survive. It hurt my heart that so few people had ever loved him for who he really is. Cedar embraced fierce independence, being thrown into different foster families and never having a stable home. I think that’s partially why she accepts Faery so easily; no matter how awful things are she has an important place there. Together, they’re a perfectly chaotic pair, and I adore them to pieces!
This book perfectly marries my love for monsters and fantasy worlds. This book (and series) have amazing world building, and sensitive topics are handled with maturity and care. It will make you cry and laugh out loud in all the best ways.
This series genuinely changed my life, and I’ll forever be grateful to Mallory for publishing it. Looking forward to the next adventure!
I loved Cedar’s reactions to life in Faery, she was such a breath of fresh air!
I got surprisingly emotional over rocks and history. I have literally NEVER gotten so in my feelings about the contemplation of history, so that was a first.
Pelleas is tortured by his burdens and has to live a life of constant lies just to survive. It hurt my heart that so few people had ever loved him for who he really is. Cedar embraced fierce independence, being thrown into different foster families and never having a stable home. I think that’s partially why she accepts Faery so easily; no matter how awful things are she has an important place there. Together, they’re a perfectly chaotic pair, and I adore them to pieces!
This book perfectly marries my love for monsters and fantasy worlds. This book (and series) have amazing world building, and sensitive topics are handled with maturity and care. It will make you cry and laugh out loud in all the best ways.
This series genuinely changed my life, and I’ll forever be grateful to Mallory for publishing it. Looking forward to the next adventure!
September 13, 2025
The end of an era! I found the Monsters of Faery series last year and it has become my favorite series, maybe ever. Not only is it a brilliant take on fae, but the writing is purposeful and intelligent. I am not sure I will ever find another author to match Mallory Dunlin.
I received an ARC copy of Captive of the Shadow Prince. I joined Dunlin’s ARC team with her last book, Crowned by the Faery King, and have loved the community in her Discord!
Captive follows Ceder, a human anthropologist, who accidentally crosses into the realm of Faery while exploring the ruins of a castle in England. She immediately meets some familiar faces for those familiar with the series, Dain and Pelleas. Pelleas has been in almost every other Monsters of Faery book, so I was beyond excited to see his journey. And boy is it a doozy. A fae, who has spent all his life pretending and hiding behind glamor, matched with an autistic woman, who is constantly having to remind herself that he is acting, makes for the perfect amount of tension between these two. Cedar never feels like she can fully trust what she sees with Pelleas, but their soulmate bond ensures that she immediately knows that he is hiding his true self from the world.
If you have read any of the other Monsters of Faery books, you have been able to see the writings on the walls for what is coming. Six royal monsters with human soulmates, interference from three gods and powerful figures literally born for the event this book surrounds.
While all the MoF books are considered interconnected standalone, I HIGHLY recommend reading the others, preferably in order. While it isn’t 100% necessary, it gives much needed context and makes certain cameos much more impactful.
I gave Captive of the Shadow Prince 5/5 stars. If you are like me and want more MoF, Mallroy has started a Patreon and is writing a serial that takes place in the MoF world for subscribers! She also posts deleted scenes, art, and other goodies. Definitely worth the price in my opinion and who doesn’t love to directly support authors!
I received an ARC copy of Captive of the Shadow Prince. I joined Dunlin’s ARC team with her last book, Crowned by the Faery King, and have loved the community in her Discord!
Captive follows Ceder, a human anthropologist, who accidentally crosses into the realm of Faery while exploring the ruins of a castle in England. She immediately meets some familiar faces for those familiar with the series, Dain and Pelleas. Pelleas has been in almost every other Monsters of Faery book, so I was beyond excited to see his journey. And boy is it a doozy. A fae, who has spent all his life pretending and hiding behind glamor, matched with an autistic woman, who is constantly having to remind herself that he is acting, makes for the perfect amount of tension between these two. Cedar never feels like she can fully trust what she sees with Pelleas, but their soulmate bond ensures that she immediately knows that he is hiding his true self from the world.
If you have read any of the other Monsters of Faery books, you have been able to see the writings on the walls for what is coming. Six royal monsters with human soulmates, interference from three gods and powerful figures literally born for the event this book surrounds.
While all the MoF books are considered interconnected standalone, I HIGHLY recommend reading the others, preferably in order. While it isn’t 100% necessary, it gives much needed context and makes certain cameos much more impactful.
I gave Captive of the Shadow Prince 5/5 stars. If you are like me and want more MoF, Mallroy has started a Patreon and is writing a serial that takes place in the MoF world for subscribers! She also posts deleted scenes, art, and other goodies. Definitely worth the price in my opinion and who doesn’t love to directly support authors!
August 9, 2025
What an amazing conclusion to an amazing series! I was lucky enough to be selected for an ARC by this wonderful author and I am just so thankful! This story had all the feels! I couldn't help but fall for our Shadow Daddy Pelleas! I love that this story wrapped everything up in a nice little bow but gave plenty of opportunity for spin offs for a couple characters. I really enjoyed this story and I'm sad to see it end but I feel like it was done in the best way. I will always pick up a book by the fabulous Mallory Dunlin!
August 8, 2025
This was such a great way to finish the series! I loved getting to learn more about the world of Faery. I think it did a great job of tying up the other stories without requiring reading them first to understand. Lovely love story, fun characters, great book :) I received this book as my first advanced reader copy and am leaving an honest review. Truly such an enjoyable series of standalone romances.
August 19, 2025
I recevied an ARC copy, this is my honest review.
Wow this was loooooooong and I say that neutrally? I don't think the length added or detracted from the story. I wasn't invested in Cedar and Pelleas as much as previous Monsters of Faery couples - to me they didn't really click. I think some readers would find their chemistry but I struggled.
I also struggled with the plot and following the conclusion of the story. I struggled to follow characters' motivations and reasoning for actions and why things needed to happen. I don't think things were explained as transparently as they should've been but perhaps I'm just a dumb reader. I'm happy the series has concluded and congratulate Mallory on finishing!
Wow this was loooooooong and I say that neutrally? I don't think the length added or detracted from the story. I wasn't invested in Cedar and Pelleas as much as previous Monsters of Faery couples - to me they didn't really click. I think some readers would find their chemistry but I struggled.
I also struggled with the plot and following the conclusion of the story. I struggled to follow characters' motivations and reasoning for actions and why things needed to happen. I don't think things were explained as transparently as they should've been but perhaps I'm just a dumb reader. I'm happy the series has concluded and congratulate Mallory on finishing!
August 23, 2025
You can find this review of Captive to the Shadow Prince on my blog, Heart's Content!
The biggest most emotionally heartfelt thank you and shout out to the author, Mallory Dunlin, for giving me this amazing opportunity to travel with her on this beautiful journey and for providing me with a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review!
*sobs uncontrollably for a hot minute*
Before you start reading this review, please know this book is the conclusion of a series, and yes while it can be read as a standalone, I do NOT recommend reading it that way. Please read the books in order to be able to truly appreciate the series as it was conceptualised to be experienced. So there might be spoilers, I’m honestly not sure what I’m going to say given that I’m overwhelmed in the best way.
✨You have been warned.✨
I think it’s hard to put into words the journey that has been this series. When my friend once told me that they weeped their eyes out when their favourite sitcom ended, I was surprised. Could you feel that way about something, even when it ends happily?
YES.
Yes. You. Can.
I first happened upon Dunlin’s Monsters of Faery series when the author had the fourth book up for free on Stuff Your Kindle day. I fell into the book and was so so moved by the emotionality of it. Caught in the Basilisk’s Gaze will always be my favourite book in the series because it led me here, to today, with this whole series on my mind and forever my heart.
Dunlin has done such a fantastic job with her plot. To say that my mind is quite frankly blown to smithereens does not wholly explain the state of it. Every single book has its own very specific purpose for itself: such as all the healing and love the characters learn to give themselves and each other, even while finding their place in their world and balance with each other; and then there’s evidence of a plot that spans the expanse of the whole series that you only wholly understand in this book. I went screaming into the author’s DMs to share my absolute awe at how this story was conceptualised and executed so well! Everything fell into place in an explosive climax that will certainly have you floating five feet off the ground once everything you’ve read in the past six books comes together in one of the most satisfying conclusions I have read in a series.
The characters of Dunlin’s books will always always clutch your heart and squeeze it in the best, most heart wrenching way. My love for how Dunlin always writes beauty in her characters to reflect in who they are, is something that always has me coming back to this series. The so called mundane moments of the characters eating dinner together, or playing a board game or just doing their own thing while in each other’s presence, elevate the connections between them across the series in such a glorious way. I have so many scenes in my head from this series that portray these moments that I don’t think I’ll ever forget. Dunlin’s characters always showcase how much strength and power is rooted in vulnerability and I love how all the sharp edges and soft corners of both characters are portrayed, communicated and cradled.
I love that. ✨ I love that. ✨
No one can ever write like Dunlin. No one. How Dunlin’s writing has love, pain, suffering, strength, betrayal, vulnerability, politics and romance I’ll never know. How she’s done this consistently for six books (not including the short stories and extras) I’ll never know. I’ll also never know how she managed to remember details she has peppered through the course of this mammoth project and tied it all together in a neat bow with that explosive climax (did I already mention this? I’M SORRY OKAY, it was so good!) and then continued to write for another 50+ pages to tie the main characters’ stories together… *enacts the gesture of her mind being blown*
I will say, I did not worry for one second that this was both a new story about two characters and the conclusion of a series, like I typically would have, because from my experience, most ‘finale’ books end up focusing more on the plot resolution and in the process forget about the main characters’ story. It never even occurred to me to worry about that with this series, why? Because I think I just knew Dunlin would balance it all perfectly. And. She. Did.
Someone just read this book so I can talk about that climax scene, please. No one understands the WEIGHT of it. How long it’s been building, how powerful it was, how emotionally gruelling, scary, INSANE and perfect it was. *screams incoherently* God, how I wish to relive those moments again. Please read the series in order, it will be. AMAZING. *floats away into space once more*
This book is THIC. You know how I’ve said this before? Well, I cannot have meant it as much as I mean it now. This is a BIG book and rightfully so, given that there’s a lot that needs to be written into it, played out and resolved. However, the pace is just *chef’s kiss*. It would’ve been so so easy to have lost the readers mid-way or at any point really, but Dunlin never does. Every single word sticks to us. I was that little puppy putt-putting (I don’t know what it’s called, okay?) its little paws in excitement the whole time. Gosh, how do I go back and re-read this series for the first time again?
*cries*
The world building honestly is both familiar and fascinatingly new. If you’ve followed the series (which, please do) you’re fairly aware and comfortable with the concepts and characters Dunlin has introduced thus far. In this book all Dunlin does is add the final layer of frosting with a liiiitlle cherry on top. It’s so much fun, with the perfect amount of intrigue, emotion and depth. *holds up hands in a pose of glory*
ITS EVERYTHING.
I’m jealous of anyone that gets to read this series without having to wait.
Please read this series, you don’t have to wait for any book to release. The whole series is done. Beautifully so.
You deserve it.
Five stars.
Go. Run. Shoo.
Check trigger warnings as always!
The biggest most emotionally heartfelt thank you and shout out to the author, Mallory Dunlin, for giving me this amazing opportunity to travel with her on this beautiful journey and for providing me with a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review!
*sobs uncontrollably for a hot minute*
Before you start reading this review, please know this book is the conclusion of a series, and yes while it can be read as a standalone, I do NOT recommend reading it that way. Please read the books in order to be able to truly appreciate the series as it was conceptualised to be experienced. So there might be spoilers, I’m honestly not sure what I’m going to say given that I’m overwhelmed in the best way.
✨You have been warned.✨
I think it’s hard to put into words the journey that has been this series. When my friend once told me that they weeped their eyes out when their favourite sitcom ended, I was surprised. Could you feel that way about something, even when it ends happily?
YES.
Yes. You. Can.
I first happened upon Dunlin’s Monsters of Faery series when the author had the fourth book up for free on Stuff Your Kindle day. I fell into the book and was so so moved by the emotionality of it. Caught in the Basilisk’s Gaze will always be my favourite book in the series because it led me here, to today, with this whole series on my mind and forever my heart.
Dunlin has done such a fantastic job with her plot. To say that my mind is quite frankly blown to smithereens does not wholly explain the state of it. Every single book has its own very specific purpose for itself: such as all the healing and love the characters learn to give themselves and each other, even while finding their place in their world and balance with each other; and then there’s evidence of a plot that spans the expanse of the whole series that you only wholly understand in this book. I went screaming into the author’s DMs to share my absolute awe at how this story was conceptualised and executed so well! Everything fell into place in an explosive climax that will certainly have you floating five feet off the ground once everything you’ve read in the past six books comes together in one of the most satisfying conclusions I have read in a series.
The characters of Dunlin’s books will always always clutch your heart and squeeze it in the best, most heart wrenching way. My love for how Dunlin always writes beauty in her characters to reflect in who they are, is something that always has me coming back to this series. The so called mundane moments of the characters eating dinner together, or playing a board game or just doing their own thing while in each other’s presence, elevate the connections between them across the series in such a glorious way. I have so many scenes in my head from this series that portray these moments that I don’t think I’ll ever forget. Dunlin’s characters always showcase how much strength and power is rooted in vulnerability and I love how all the sharp edges and soft corners of both characters are portrayed, communicated and cradled.
I love that. ✨ I love that. ✨
No one can ever write like Dunlin. No one. How Dunlin’s writing has love, pain, suffering, strength, betrayal, vulnerability, politics and romance I’ll never know. How she’s done this consistently for six books (not including the short stories and extras) I’ll never know. I’ll also never know how she managed to remember details she has peppered through the course of this mammoth project and tied it all together in a neat bow with that explosive climax (did I already mention this? I’M SORRY OKAY, it was so good!) and then continued to write for another 50+ pages to tie the main characters’ stories together… *enacts the gesture of her mind being blown*
I will say, I did not worry for one second that this was both a new story about two characters and the conclusion of a series, like I typically would have, because from my experience, most ‘finale’ books end up focusing more on the plot resolution and in the process forget about the main characters’ story. It never even occurred to me to worry about that with this series, why? Because I think I just knew Dunlin would balance it all perfectly. And. She. Did.
Someone just read this book so I can talk about that climax scene, please. No one understands the WEIGHT of it. How long it’s been building, how powerful it was, how emotionally gruelling, scary, INSANE and perfect it was. *screams incoherently* God, how I wish to relive those moments again. Please read the series in order, it will be. AMAZING. *floats away into space once more*
This book is THIC. You know how I’ve said this before? Well, I cannot have meant it as much as I mean it now. This is a BIG book and rightfully so, given that there’s a lot that needs to be written into it, played out and resolved. However, the pace is just *chef’s kiss*. It would’ve been so so easy to have lost the readers mid-way or at any point really, but Dunlin never does. Every single word sticks to us. I was that little puppy putt-putting (I don’t know what it’s called, okay?) its little paws in excitement the whole time. Gosh, how do I go back and re-read this series for the first time again?
*cries*
The world building honestly is both familiar and fascinatingly new. If you’ve followed the series (which, please do) you’re fairly aware and comfortable with the concepts and characters Dunlin has introduced thus far. In this book all Dunlin does is add the final layer of frosting with a liiiitlle cherry on top. It’s so much fun, with the perfect amount of intrigue, emotion and depth. *holds up hands in a pose of glory*
ITS EVERYTHING.
I’m jealous of anyone that gets to read this series without having to wait.
Please read this series, you don’t have to wait for any book to release. The whole series is done. Beautifully so.
You deserve it.
Five stars.
Go. Run. Shoo.
Check trigger warnings as always!
August 8, 2025
"Stupid, sexy muppet."
This was provided as an ARC copy and the following is my honest review!
Normally I'm very good at waiting for books. They take time and this one was no exception. But holy heck the teasers she gave leading up, the fact that this was a finale... Biased as I am for being a huge fan of this series and Mallory's catalogue I slipped into a bit of a slump waiting for this. The wait was very much worth it, and I'm so glad that the series is completed to inflict this on others. Sad to see it end, but this was a perfect cap.
Cedar quickly became my favorite FMC of MoF. Sorry, saving a sheep and being thrown into whatever game the gods had planned and responding with plenty of snark was the exact correct move in my book. Being in a auDHD relationship and being that myself, I felt such a pull to both her and Pelleas. She was stubborn, driven, and loved a good infodump from either direction. Her autism was a core part of her but it wasn't ever seen as a weakness or as a negative trait.
As always, Mallory has given us another touch-starved, emotionally damaged, sopping wet and pathetic man. Pelleas is a fantastic male lead, up there as one of my faves with his brother. Cedar can see through his snark for what it is and he had such a natural reaction to being called out, even from someone who knows him so well. His journey of self acceptance struck a big nerve, hit a tad close to home.
The story wraps up in a fantastic fashion with plenty of worry, screaming at the pages because how dare Mallory do that to them and with lots of happy tears. After 5 books and plenty of heart break, seeing the end of this particular game of the gods and have it not be completely devastating (maybe for a few chapters...) when the gods of Faery are known for wrecking all kinds of heartbreaking havoc... It was a ride I'm glad to have been here for. The emotional pain and turmoil was well worth it for a sweet ending, and so well written as always. If I can expect one thing from MoF, it's plenty of emotional pain and some near world-ending devastation.
This was provided as an ARC copy and the following is my honest review!
Normally I'm very good at waiting for books. They take time and this one was no exception. But holy heck the teasers she gave leading up, the fact that this was a finale... Biased as I am for being a huge fan of this series and Mallory's catalogue I slipped into a bit of a slump waiting for this. The wait was very much worth it, and I'm so glad that the series is completed to inflict this on others. Sad to see it end, but this was a perfect cap.
Cedar quickly became my favorite FMC of MoF. Sorry, saving a sheep and being thrown into whatever game the gods had planned and responding with plenty of snark was the exact correct move in my book. Being in a auDHD relationship and being that myself, I felt such a pull to both her and Pelleas. She was stubborn, driven, and loved a good infodump from either direction. Her autism was a core part of her but it wasn't ever seen as a weakness or as a negative trait.
As always, Mallory has given us another touch-starved, emotionally damaged, sopping wet and pathetic man. Pelleas is a fantastic male lead, up there as one of my faves with his brother. Cedar can see through his snark for what it is and he had such a natural reaction to being called out, even from someone who knows him so well. His journey of self acceptance struck a big nerve, hit a tad close to home.
The story wraps up in a fantastic fashion with plenty of worry, screaming at the pages because how dare Mallory do that to them and with lots of happy tears. After 5 books and plenty of heart break, seeing the end of this particular game of the gods and have it not be completely devastating (maybe for a few chapters...) when the gods of Faery are known for wrecking all kinds of heartbreaking havoc... It was a ride I'm glad to have been here for. The emotional pain and turmoil was well worth it for a sweet ending, and so well written as always. If I can expect one thing from MoF, it's plenty of emotional pain and some near world-ending devastation.
August 6, 2025
Genre: Romantasy – Romance/Fantasy
Tropes: Forced Proximity; Fated Mates; Enemies to Lovers;
Microtropes: One Bed; Fake Relationship; Hidden Relationship; Commoner raised to Royalty; Rejected Child; journey of self discovery; political intrigue
Series: Monsters of Faery
Age Range: Adult
Pages: 810
Chapters: 98 plus an Epilogue
Start Date: July 30, 2025
Finish Date: August 5, 2025
Favorite Character: Dain
Favorite Chapter: 70-73 ;)
Favorite Quote:
The bedside table on that side had little personal effects instead of decorative ones (a pencil and two dog-eared books; I’d already known he was a monster, but that was proof positive), and the decorative pillows were all shoved to the left.
The fanfiction practically wrote itself.
“I think that’s quite enough commands out of your pretty mouth tonight, Cedar darling,” he said with dark triumph
Format: Kindle PDF ARC
Why did I read it: I read this book in part because an ARC was given to me by the author. But I would have read the book regardless because I loved the other books in the series. I have been waiting for Pelleas' story since Ayre's (2nd book).
What did I like: I loved the cameos of some of my other fav couples. I loved how Pelleas went through so much and stood so strong. I loved the neurodivergency and chronic pain representation so much I was giddy. I also really enjoyed how this brought all of the stories together and tied up loose ends and the interconnected plot. As a whole this book was phenomenally written and my greatest disappointment is that this is the end. Pelleas and Cedar are both so well written it was a delight to read their story and to learn so much about them. Political intrigue, relationships, world building, background was stunning and fun to be immersed in, I was so mad I had to work because that really slowed down my reading! Overall I loved this story, the sweet, the sour, and definitely the spice! I also found that i really enjoyed the historical paleo, thanks for doing that research M. Dunlin.
Summary
Would I read more books by this author: Yes and I have
Would I read the rest of the series: Yes and I have
Plot Rating: 5
Character Rating: 5 for Cedar and the ND rep, 5 for Pelleas and for the chronic pain rep, 5 for the bad guy, he was a real piece of work and that made the story top notch.
World building Rating: 4.75
Writing Rating: 4.5 there are a few words that might be beyond a 12th grade reading level that not all readers may enjoy (though I freaking love learning new words!)
Spice Rating: 3.75
Spice Frequency: 2
Ease of Reading: Post High School
Recommend: Yes
Read Again: Yes and I’ll be getting the Audio
Tropes: Forced Proximity; Fated Mates; Enemies to Lovers;
Microtropes: One Bed; Fake Relationship; Hidden Relationship; Commoner raised to Royalty; Rejected Child; journey of self discovery; political intrigue
Series: Monsters of Faery
Age Range: Adult
Pages: 810
Chapters: 98 plus an Epilogue
Start Date: July 30, 2025
Finish Date: August 5, 2025
Favorite Character: Dain
Favorite Chapter: 70-73 ;)
Favorite Quote:
The bedside table on that side had little personal effects instead of decorative ones (a pencil and two dog-eared books; I’d already known he was a monster, but that was proof positive), and the decorative pillows were all shoved to the left.
The fanfiction practically wrote itself.
“I think that’s quite enough commands out of your pretty mouth tonight, Cedar darling,” he said with dark triumph
Format: Kindle PDF ARC
Why did I read it: I read this book in part because an ARC was given to me by the author. But I would have read the book regardless because I loved the other books in the series. I have been waiting for Pelleas' story since Ayre's (2nd book).
What did I like: I loved the cameos of some of my other fav couples. I loved how Pelleas went through so much and stood so strong. I loved the neurodivergency and chronic pain representation so much I was giddy. I also really enjoyed how this brought all of the stories together and tied up loose ends and the interconnected plot. As a whole this book was phenomenally written and my greatest disappointment is that this is the end. Pelleas and Cedar are both so well written it was a delight to read their story and to learn so much about them. Political intrigue, relationships, world building, background was stunning and fun to be immersed in, I was so mad I had to work because that really slowed down my reading! Overall I loved this story, the sweet, the sour, and definitely the spice! I also found that i really enjoyed the historical paleo, thanks for doing that research M. Dunlin.
Summary
Would I read more books by this author: Yes and I have
Would I read the rest of the series: Yes and I have
Plot Rating: 5
Character Rating: 5 for Cedar and the ND rep, 5 for Pelleas and for the chronic pain rep, 5 for the bad guy, he was a real piece of work and that made the story top notch.
World building Rating: 4.75
Writing Rating: 4.5 there are a few words that might be beyond a 12th grade reading level that not all readers may enjoy (though I freaking love learning new words!)
Spice Rating: 3.75
Spice Frequency: 2
Ease of Reading: Post High School
Recommend: Yes
Read Again: Yes and I’ll be getting the Audio
August 12, 2025
I loved this book. It was a great standalone story between the MCs and it was a great series finale. I have been anticipating this MMCs story since we first met him and Mallory DELIVERED.
Pelleas is everything I wanted him to be. He is the big scary shadow daddy who is made for caves and darkness. He is the tortured sad boy emo artist. And he is dying for affection and love but doesn’t know how to accept it. When Cedar finds him he’s been hiding himself so long that he is unsure of who he is and what his personal desires are. There are parts of him that are ruthless and calculating but more of him is insecure and innocent. He is a beautiful and complicated character.
Cedar is feisty. She’s just as damaged as Pelly but instead of atrophy from sequestration she’s was battered from exposure. They are both wearing armor when they meet but where Pell is hiding from the world Cedar is bearing it all in defiance. Her transformation is truly her manifesting into a new self and stepping into a role where she trusts and accepts the path.
The adventure part of this book takes a long time to develop and it needs that time to change and grow into the EPIC final scene. It’s 100% worth the world building a clues that Mallory weaves through the story. Also she gets an A+ for excellent GRE word use!
We get to see the whole series cast again and they don’t take away from the MCs but they do add depth to the story.
The spice is great! Finally we get to see what is under all the shadows and I was not disappointed! Also the spice lasts for multiple chapters without getting redundant. These two really end up embracing their desires and the inexperienced aspect of Pelly is *chefs kiss* perfection. Somehow he’s a virgin and not a virgin and it works magnificently!
Pelleas is everything I wanted him to be. He is the big scary shadow daddy who is made for caves and darkness. He is the tortured sad boy emo artist. And he is dying for affection and love but doesn’t know how to accept it. When Cedar finds him he’s been hiding himself so long that he is unsure of who he is and what his personal desires are. There are parts of him that are ruthless and calculating but more of him is insecure and innocent. He is a beautiful and complicated character.
Cedar is feisty. She’s just as damaged as Pelly but instead of atrophy from sequestration she’s was battered from exposure. They are both wearing armor when they meet but where Pell is hiding from the world Cedar is bearing it all in defiance. Her transformation is truly her manifesting into a new self and stepping into a role where she trusts and accepts the path.
The adventure part of this book takes a long time to develop and it needs that time to change and grow into the EPIC final scene. It’s 100% worth the world building a clues that Mallory weaves through the story. Also she gets an A+ for excellent GRE word use!
We get to see the whole series cast again and they don’t take away from the MCs but they do add depth to the story.
The spice is great! Finally we get to see what is under all the shadows and I was not disappointed! Also the spice lasts for multiple chapters without getting redundant. These two really end up embracing their desires and the inexperienced aspect of Pelly is *chefs kiss* perfection. Somehow he’s a virgin and not a virgin and it works magnificently!
September 3, 2025
I loved this book so much I am going to struggle to keep this short.
Sooo… tl;dr summary:
- Fantasy romance
- Human FMC, Monster MMC
- Forced proximity
- Enemies(ish) to lovers
- Slow burn
- 🌶️5- open door, explicit, plentiful, and with.. variety
- Soulmates
- HEA
- Fantastic banter and humor
- Wonderfully descriptive writing
- Well thought out magic system
- Excellent world building
I say enemies to lovers but it’s more like reluctant allies who have a brief spat as enemies due to misunderstandings. Forced proximity, well sort of, except… nope, trying to avoid spoilers… And slow burn but enough frequency to warrant 5🌶️ on the romance io scale? Yeah, Mallory made those tropes her own personal playground… I would think I had an inkling of where things were going and then… surprise! It was like she took the cloth of romance tropes into to her studio and chopped them up, added interesting holes and twists in them, threaded humor and banter through them, and wove them together until what you have in your hands is not fabric but a beautiful piece of intricate lace, creating a work of art that is infuriating to categorize but absolutely delightful to read! Okay, not sure I quite landed that simile, but it’s my nod to Pelleas’ hobbies so I’m going to leave it in…
Pelleas, our monster MMC, is the only monster of the series not to have been perceived as a monster by those around him. He is in that sense in the closet, and has all the self doubts and anxieties to go with it, plus additional emotional trauma from a thousand years of interactions with some truly horrible fae, to develop deep fears of pealing back the armor of his mask in order to be intimate.
Cedar Hannigan, our FMC, has similarly spent her life masking as an autistic individual, and has lived experiences which have left her very untrusting of others’ intentions and her own lovability (she is utterly lovable, and I honestly think I fell in love with her before him! Which is saying something because I’ve been ready to fall in love with Pelleas for several books!)
The way the concept of soulmates is treated in this series doesn’t mean that they will fall in love, perfect nemesis or rivals or even friends are just as likely, so the characters have to explore their connection. There’s no insta lust or unexplainable pull, but rather actual relationship building. The main characters interact in genuine and thoughtful ways, giving each other space to take off their armor one piece at a time. It’s such a thoughtfully crafted slow romantic build up where the characters reveal so much of themselves. I’m truly in love with them both!
While this book has been written with the goal that you could read it alone without the build up of the 5 books that precede it, I would strongly suggest you read the series first. The great thing about these books being written to stand alone is there are no cliffhangers between, so if you’re juggling too much in life, you can pick them up when you have time and walk away for a bit when you don’t. The majority of the books are fairly quick reads with the exception of this book, the final book. It is the series finale of a series of 6 books that had to wrap up over 80 years of political discord and intrigue of royalty, monsters, and gods, so it is longer (for which I am grateful). You should definitely read all of them, they’re fantastic!
If you’re with me this far, I’m impressed! I’m not a writer, not particularly fond of writing my thoughts (I much prefer to draw them), and I don’t typically write reviews for anything. But I loved these books enough to ask for an ARC for this book and even with my limited experience reviewing, was generously given an ARC.
Sooo… tl;dr summary:
- Fantasy romance
- Human FMC, Monster MMC
- Forced proximity
- Enemies(ish) to lovers
- Slow burn
- 🌶️5- open door, explicit, plentiful, and with.. variety
- Soulmates
- HEA
- Fantastic banter and humor
- Wonderfully descriptive writing
- Well thought out magic system
- Excellent world building
I say enemies to lovers but it’s more like reluctant allies who have a brief spat as enemies due to misunderstandings. Forced proximity, well sort of, except… nope, trying to avoid spoilers… And slow burn but enough frequency to warrant 5🌶️ on the romance io scale? Yeah, Mallory made those tropes her own personal playground… I would think I had an inkling of where things were going and then… surprise! It was like she took the cloth of romance tropes into to her studio and chopped them up, added interesting holes and twists in them, threaded humor and banter through them, and wove them together until what you have in your hands is not fabric but a beautiful piece of intricate lace, creating a work of art that is infuriating to categorize but absolutely delightful to read! Okay, not sure I quite landed that simile, but it’s my nod to Pelleas’ hobbies so I’m going to leave it in…
Pelleas, our monster MMC, is the only monster of the series not to have been perceived as a monster by those around him. He is in that sense in the closet, and has all the self doubts and anxieties to go with it, plus additional emotional trauma from a thousand years of interactions with some truly horrible fae, to develop deep fears of pealing back the armor of his mask in order to be intimate.
Cedar Hannigan, our FMC, has similarly spent her life masking as an autistic individual, and has lived experiences which have left her very untrusting of others’ intentions and her own lovability (she is utterly lovable, and I honestly think I fell in love with her before him! Which is saying something because I’ve been ready to fall in love with Pelleas for several books!)
The way the concept of soulmates is treated in this series doesn’t mean that they will fall in love, perfect nemesis or rivals or even friends are just as likely, so the characters have to explore their connection. There’s no insta lust or unexplainable pull, but rather actual relationship building. The main characters interact in genuine and thoughtful ways, giving each other space to take off their armor one piece at a time. It’s such a thoughtfully crafted slow romantic build up where the characters reveal so much of themselves. I’m truly in love with them both!
While this book has been written with the goal that you could read it alone without the build up of the 5 books that precede it, I would strongly suggest you read the series first. The great thing about these books being written to stand alone is there are no cliffhangers between, so if you’re juggling too much in life, you can pick them up when you have time and walk away for a bit when you don’t. The majority of the books are fairly quick reads with the exception of this book, the final book. It is the series finale of a series of 6 books that had to wrap up over 80 years of political discord and intrigue of royalty, monsters, and gods, so it is longer (for which I am grateful). You should definitely read all of them, they’re fantastic!
If you’re with me this far, I’m impressed! I’m not a writer, not particularly fond of writing my thoughts (I much prefer to draw them), and I don’t typically write reviews for anything. But I loved these books enough to ask for an ARC for this book and even with my limited experience reviewing, was generously given an ARC.
September 2, 2025
3.8 stars
A very satisfying ending to an overall great series. I loved seeing the cameos from others in the series which really brought up just how much there was to lose. I also couldn't forget how wonderful Cedar and Pelleas were as protagonists and their relationship growth, seeing them being themselves with each other and gaining the self-confidence. Extra points to the autism representation - it's always so nice to read from another perspective!
The last few chapters were so heartwarming to read (squealing over Isabela and Varis) and the family reunion. Cannot wait to see what extras there will be to read about over on Dunlin's Patreon.
A very satisfying ending to an overall great series. I loved seeing the cameos from others in the series which really brought up just how much there was to lose. I also couldn't forget how wonderful Cedar and Pelleas were as protagonists and their relationship growth, seeing them being themselves with each other and gaining the self-confidence. Extra points to the autism representation - it's always so nice to read from another perspective!
The last few chapters were so heartwarming to read (squealing over Isabela and Varis) and the family reunion. Cannot wait to see what extras there will be to read about over on Dunlin's Patreon.
August 3, 2025
Mallory has done it again.
this is the final book in the MoF series, and it lives up to the hype. every end tucked away with care while not abandoning the new characters set in front of us. this book is very thick and plot rich, so it's not a one sitting read, but its so very worth it. spicy spice after a delicious slow burn.
now if y'all will excuse me, I'm going to go binge read the series again and pray it cures the (wonderful) book hangover this piece of art gave me.
this is the final book in the MoF series, and it lives up to the hype. every end tucked away with care while not abandoning the new characters set in front of us. this book is very thick and plot rich, so it's not a one sitting read, but its so very worth it. spicy spice after a delicious slow burn.
now if y'all will excuse me, I'm going to go binge read the series again and pray it cures the (wonderful) book hangover this piece of art gave me.
December 4, 2025
4.5 starts
Best kinks out of the saga, loved the couple.
After so many books its hard to remember the other stories tho 🥲 and some explanations were a bit too extended and slow.
Best kinks out of the saga, loved the couple.
After so many books its hard to remember the other stories tho 🥲 and some explanations were a bit too extended and slow.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 22, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Sadly, all good things must come to an end, including one of my favorite book series. The final installation in Monsters of Faery was a perfect end to a wild ride with the monster MMCs and their human mates.
Pelleas is a bit of an unknown throughout the series, covered in glamor magic and tending to his own agenda. I wasn’t sure what to think of him before his book was announced, but then I became intrigued. He is very complex, damaged, sad, powerful, kind, and possessive. I absolutely adore him.
Cedar is tenacious, brilliant, rebellious, and sassy. She stressed me out with all her cave exploring in the first bit, but it turned out mostly okay 🫣 And she is the perfect person to handle Pelleas’s attitude and insecurities. Though she was tossed into the unknown, she makes it her own and does her part to save the world.
I also loved the cameos from my favorite sweet baby angels from the other books in the series. There were some very fun (and stressful) crossover moments that made me extremely happy. The completion of the overarching plot was WILD and I really had absolutely no clue what was coming next.
I’m sad the series is over, but excited to see what Mallory does next!
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Sadly, all good things must come to an end, including one of my favorite book series. The final installation in Monsters of Faery was a perfect end to a wild ride with the monster MMCs and their human mates.
Pelleas is a bit of an unknown throughout the series, covered in glamor magic and tending to his own agenda. I wasn’t sure what to think of him before his book was announced, but then I became intrigued. He is very complex, damaged, sad, powerful, kind, and possessive. I absolutely adore him.
Cedar is tenacious, brilliant, rebellious, and sassy. She stressed me out with all her cave exploring in the first bit, but it turned out mostly okay 🫣 And she is the perfect person to handle Pelleas’s attitude and insecurities. Though she was tossed into the unknown, she makes it her own and does her part to save the world.
I also loved the cameos from my favorite sweet baby angels from the other books in the series. There were some very fun (and stressful) crossover moments that made me extremely happy. The completion of the overarching plot was WILD and I really had absolutely no clue what was coming next.
I’m sad the series is over, but excited to see what Mallory does next!
August 20, 2025
I’m writing an honest review after receiving an ARC. Mallory Dunlin has done the next to impossible and written a series conclusion just as strong an entry as its beginning. I found the depiction of a neurodivergent heroine to be unerringly yet respectfully accurate without reducing her to damsel in distress stereotyping, and provided nuances to the MMC characterization that delves deeper into the glimpses she’s given of Pelleas throughout the series. The storyline is brisk, without getting overwhelming, and culminates in a breathtaking finale in its expressiveness. I don’t want to include spoilers, because I think experiencing this story all on its own without preconceptions beyond those of the world Dunlin has already established in the series narratives. I wish I could read it for the first time again, and I’m sure it will feature prominently in future rereading.
August 7, 2025
I loved this book so much. This series is one of my favourite series, and this was the perfect conclusion. Mallory knows how to write an MMC who is damaged and desperate for love and I AM SO HERE FOR IT. This series is 6 inter-connected standalone books, but I would definitely recommend reading them all in order before tackling this one. This one is the biggest of the bunch, and has the most callback to the previous books. Even though this one was the longest in the series, it never dragged. This is a beautifully written story on its own, and the way Mallory tied the whole over-arching plot was so well done. This series also has the most interesting take on fated mates that I’ve ever read. Love love love it. 10/10 recommend.
I received this book as an advanced review copy and am leaving an honest review.
I received this book as an advanced review copy and am leaving an honest review.
October 3, 2025
About 2.5 stars. I would actually typically 2 stars this based on my experience reading it, but Dunlin is a good writer and honestly her vocabulary alone elevates this for me.
So why didn't I really enjoy it? I honestly struggled to understand what the hell was going on most of the time. You have your main characters in a situation where they cannot openly speak about their plans or fears (because the Raven King is the court and could be listening in), and what that leads to for me as a reader is that I really struggled to understand the stakes, the motivations, the risks etc. And without spoiling the end, we get real like vague with what's actually happening in some parts and I just could not visualize it.
I also struggled to feel chemistry between Pelleas and Cedar. Both were damaged, and I felt the friendship between them, but sexual chemistry? Ehh. That felt like a stretch.
I feel like Dunlin created a unique world where the fae feel like traditional fae --> tricky, can't lie, lots of double-speak, etc. And the soulmate stuff was interesting (though ultimately felt only barely-explored). And she's a talented writer, but I think this will be my last foray into her stuff. Too many of them just fell flat for me.
Spoilers Below, Read At Your Own Risk
So why didn't I really enjoy it? I honestly struggled to understand what the hell was going on most of the time. You have your main characters in a situation where they cannot openly speak about their plans or fears (because the Raven King is the court and could be listening in), and what that leads to for me as a reader is that I really struggled to understand the stakes, the motivations, the risks etc. And without spoiling the end, we get real like vague with what's actually happening in some parts and I just could not visualize it.
I also struggled to feel chemistry between Pelleas and Cedar. Both were damaged, and I felt the friendship between them, but sexual chemistry? Ehh. That felt like a stretch.
I feel like Dunlin created a unique world where the fae feel like traditional fae --> tricky, can't lie, lots of double-speak, etc. And the soulmate stuff was interesting (though ultimately felt only barely-explored). And she's a talented writer, but I think this will be my last foray into her stuff. Too many of them just fell flat for me.
Spoilers Below, Read At Your Own Risk
August 11, 2025
I received a free ARC of this book.
Actual rating: 4.5/5, rounded up
Shewww, what a ride!
This is the final book in the series, and I'll be sad to see it go! Tbh, I was taken aback when I realized this was the last installment - it felt like there was a lot to wrap up, but this book did it pretty well.
Short version of this review: if you liked the others, you'll love this. If you've been looking forward to Pelleas, you won't be disappointed. However, if you really want the whole gang to come together for the final battle, you aren't gonna get it.
Long version: This novel has a lot to accomplish, in that it both caps off the series, and focuses on a romance for a character who has been built up nearly the entire run. Tbh, I was nervous about how the novel would strike the balance between the two - I was hoping it wouldn't be an Illuminae files situation, where the new "main" pair in the last book felt like paper dolls because so much page time has to be devoted to the plot and previous characters, and they just got shoved to the side. Thankfully, this is totally averted. I kinda expected 50% of the novel would be the romance and 50% wrapping up the overarching plot, but it was more like 80/20.
The Pell romance is 10/10, no notes, we have been FED. Pelleas is everything I hoped he would be from the first time he skulked onto the page. He has had cameos in almost every book since, and has always left us wanting more - and now we have it!! He's sassy, he's mysterious, he's powerful, he's pouty, he's an artist with a taste for fashion and beautiful things (v strong Astarion vibes, tbh, BG3 girlies take note). And, honestly, I liked our FMC, too. Mallory has a tendency to write in the same overall tone for every FMC (strong, confident, composed, very clear/direct), and this isn't really any different, BUT she threw in some autism rep (special interests, over-stimulation, routine, etc) that did give her a unique edge. I LOVED the inclusion of the cave painting stuff - it tied into her character, the shadows, the ways, human history, the villain's past, just EVERYTHING so well. Uniting all of those ideas was really cool.
The romance is def a slow burn, and it's given plenty of time to breathe. There are lots of little cute moments amongst the spice, and the romance definitely feels earned by the end. Super enjoyable, exactly what I was hoping for, not a thing I would change. This alone is 5/5 stars.
The wrap-up to the overall plot is a bit touchier. I was really anticipating that since this was the capper to the series, we would see all of the former MMCs and FMCs. All of them have beef with the villain of this book, all of them have SOME skin in the game, and there's a constant reiteration that this has all been orchestrated by the gods as some sort of long con, so naturally everyone should have a part to play. There's nothing I like more than a hero team-up, so I was very excited for this. Unfortunately, this moooostly doesn't happen.
The majority of the FMCs don't appear at all (a few appear in the epilogue, but it's very brief). Danica is the only one who gets to do anything interesting (but she DOES kick ass, so that's nice). This was the worst part for me, tbh, because all of the women in their respective books are so active and powerful, and then they just become nonentities as soon as we leave their stories.
One of the MMCs is also relegated to the epilogue, which is really disappointing, because he was one of my faves (and it's very dismissive, too, he just writes a note saying "too busy for plot lol sorry"). The other MMCs do at least get to participate in the final battle, but they're mostly a distraction for the villain so Pell/Cedar can do all the world-saving. I'm glad they were there at all, but I really was wanting a more satisfying send-off.
(Side note, I didn't read the novella, so I couldn't even tell you who the MCs of those were, but I don't *think* they appear in this novel at all.)
I feel the middle was also a bit muddy, especially once the glamor is ripped off and the villain has to adjust his plans; it's hard to get into details here without spoilers, but basically Cedar and Pell are trying to pull the wool over the court's eyes, but they're constantly exposing their actual feelings for each other and jumping through all these flip-floppy bargains and things until they just say f it and expose themselves anyways. I feel the plot/their motivations got a little lost in the sauce there.
That being said, the Pell/Cedar side of the final battle was excellent. It really did feel world-shattering and magical, and again I loved how we tied back into the cave painting/artistry of it all. Cedar's powers were also pretty cool - they're not as over-the-top explosive as some of the other FMCs', but I liked the variety. Their climax was huge, satisfying, and answered some of the key conflicts the series has been building towards, and the ultimate resolution was great. Overall, the plot side of things is a 4/5 for me - so 4.5/5 total, in the end.
Long story short, if you loved the previous books, you will still love this one. If the romance aspect is what has drawn you in, you will have absolutely no regrets reading this book. The romance is truly excellent. If you're hoping for a satisfying end to the series, you'll mostly get it - just don't expect too much from our previous heroes and heroines.
I'm very excited to see where Mallory goes next!
Actual rating: 4.5/5, rounded up
Shewww, what a ride!
This is the final book in the series, and I'll be sad to see it go! Tbh, I was taken aback when I realized this was the last installment - it felt like there was a lot to wrap up, but this book did it pretty well.
Short version of this review: if you liked the others, you'll love this. If you've been looking forward to Pelleas, you won't be disappointed. However, if you really want the whole gang to come together for the final battle, you aren't gonna get it.
Long version: This novel has a lot to accomplish, in that it both caps off the series, and focuses on a romance for a character who has been built up nearly the entire run. Tbh, I was nervous about how the novel would strike the balance between the two - I was hoping it wouldn't be an Illuminae files situation, where the new "main" pair in the last book felt like paper dolls because so much page time has to be devoted to the plot and previous characters, and they just got shoved to the side. Thankfully, this is totally averted. I kinda expected 50% of the novel would be the romance and 50% wrapping up the overarching plot, but it was more like 80/20.
The Pell romance is 10/10, no notes, we have been FED. Pelleas is everything I hoped he would be from the first time he skulked onto the page. He has had cameos in almost every book since, and has always left us wanting more - and now we have it!! He's sassy, he's mysterious, he's powerful, he's pouty, he's an artist with a taste for fashion and beautiful things (v strong Astarion vibes, tbh, BG3 girlies take note). And, honestly, I liked our FMC, too. Mallory has a tendency to write in the same overall tone for every FMC (strong, confident, composed, very clear/direct), and this isn't really any different, BUT she threw in some autism rep (special interests, over-stimulation, routine, etc) that did give her a unique edge. I LOVED the inclusion of the cave painting stuff - it tied into her character, the shadows, the ways, human history, the villain's past, just EVERYTHING so well. Uniting all of those ideas was really cool.
The romance is def a slow burn, and it's given plenty of time to breathe. There are lots of little cute moments amongst the spice, and the romance definitely feels earned by the end. Super enjoyable, exactly what I was hoping for, not a thing I would change. This alone is 5/5 stars.
The wrap-up to the overall plot is a bit touchier. I was really anticipating that since this was the capper to the series, we would see all of the former MMCs and FMCs. All of them have beef with the villain of this book, all of them have SOME skin in the game, and there's a constant reiteration that this has all been orchestrated by the gods as some sort of long con, so naturally everyone should have a part to play. There's nothing I like more than a hero team-up, so I was very excited for this. Unfortunately, this moooostly doesn't happen.
The majority of the FMCs don't appear at all (a few appear in the epilogue, but it's very brief). Danica is the only one who gets to do anything interesting (but she DOES kick ass, so that's nice). This was the worst part for me, tbh, because all of the women in their respective books are so active and powerful, and then they just become nonentities as soon as we leave their stories.
One of the MMCs is also relegated to the epilogue, which is really disappointing, because he was one of my faves (and it's very dismissive, too, he just writes a note saying "too busy for plot lol sorry"). The other MMCs do at least get to participate in the final battle, but they're mostly a distraction for the villain so Pell/Cedar can do all the world-saving. I'm glad they were there at all, but I really was wanting a more satisfying send-off.
(Side note, I didn't read the novella, so I couldn't even tell you who the MCs of those were, but I don't *think* they appear in this novel at all.)
I feel the middle was also a bit muddy, especially once the glamor is ripped off and the villain has to adjust his plans; it's hard to get into details here without spoilers, but basically Cedar and Pell are trying to pull the wool over the court's eyes, but they're constantly exposing their actual feelings for each other and jumping through all these flip-floppy bargains and things until they just say f it and expose themselves anyways. I feel the plot/their motivations got a little lost in the sauce there.
That being said, the Pell/Cedar side of the final battle was excellent. It really did feel world-shattering and magical, and again I loved how we tied back into the cave painting/artistry of it all. Cedar's powers were also pretty cool - they're not as over-the-top explosive as some of the other FMCs', but I liked the variety. Their climax was huge, satisfying, and answered some of the key conflicts the series has been building towards, and the ultimate resolution was great. Overall, the plot side of things is a 4/5 for me - so 4.5/5 total, in the end.
Long story short, if you loved the previous books, you will still love this one. If the romance aspect is what has drawn you in, you will have absolutely no regrets reading this book. The romance is truly excellent. If you're hoping for a satisfying end to the series, you'll mostly get it - just don't expect too much from our previous heroes and heroines.
I'm very excited to see where Mallory goes next!
September 27, 2025
I liked the two main characters' relationship, but the rest of the plot was long, confusing, and a little boring to me.
August 21, 2025
ARC Review (4⭐)
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
All in all, while the pacing dragged at times and Cedar’s arc was uneven, the book was enjoyable. Seeing Cedar and Pelleas grow together, confront their trauma, and finally validate their love made the ending really satisfying.
I want to thank Mallory and her team for providing me this arc, and trusting me with the end of this series.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
All in all, while the pacing dragged at times and Cedar’s arc was uneven, the book was enjoyable. Seeing Cedar and Pelleas grow together, confront their trauma, and finally validate their love made the ending really satisfying.
I want to thank Mallory and her team for providing me this arc, and trusting me with the end of this series.
August 22, 2025
From well developed characters to in-depth world building, Mallory really hit the nail on the head and made something special when she brought the world of Faery (and her delicious monster men) to life. She just has this way of setting up and executing a scene that really makes you feel like you’re there experiencing things right alongside the MC.
As for this particular tale, well, it truly begins when a spelunking sheep rescuer stumbles upon two monster men attempting to work out their issues (like how one ate the other’s brother once upon a time, you know, the usual). Of course, one of the monster men, who appears all the more monstrous for the terrible wrongness of his beauty, just so happens to be said spelunkers’s soulmate.
The monstrous, yet not so monstrous, half of our soul-mated pair (Prince ‘Shadow Daddy’ Pelleas) has intrigued me since he first came on the scene in another Monsters of Faery tale and I just knew his story would be a whirlwind (and man was it ever). He grew up, for over a thousand years, hating himself and hiding his true identity to the point where he became indifferent to physical (and emotional) touch. There were so many instances where I just wanted to squish him and let him know all would be well in the end.
Then we have Cedar, the other half of our soul-mated pair. She comes onto the scene prepared for a solo outing with her trusty fanny pack filled with essentials and the details of her location left with a trusted source in case anything unexpected happens. (I do so love me a smart prepared girly, especially one who understands the appeal of a good fanny pack.) Of course, the unexpected does happen, just not in a way she ever could’ve figured. She stumbles upon a sheep in need of rescuing, then jinxes herself by saying, ‘Not like this is going to take me all day’, right before attempting to rescue said sheep. At this point, ‘Not all day’ becomes more like ‘It’s only forever, not long at all’. (Damn sexy monstrous Faery men.)
Once these two lock eyes, the fun and games truly begin, as their story is one of passion, obsession, devotion, agony, longing, exploration, connection, and pure power (with just the right amount of artistic flair). At times, Cedar may seem a bit cold, but she’s really not. She just has the bad ass ability to shove down the feels and get shit done, which plays an important role. And Pelleas, oh sweet Pelleas. The trust that boy puts in Cedar, especially since his life has never truly been his own, is both heartbreaking and awe inspiring. (He’s such a simp for his Queen and I’m so here for it.)
Additional musings (just cause):
One of Cedars thoughts that I totally agree with when it comes to Shadow Daddy Pelleas: ‘Pelleas' shadows were the best spies in the world. If time, distance, and political boundaries didn't hinder them, what would?’ (Nothing, the correct answer is nothing.)
Need a touch of spice to entice? How about: ‘I was cockwarming the Prince of Shadows from twelve feet away while he watched me.’ (Yeah, that part was pretty hot.)
All in all, Pelleas and Cedar’s story was a wonderful conclusion to this magical world of Faery that will be often thought of and sorely missed. I can’t wait to see what Mallory comes up with next.
As for this particular tale, well, it truly begins when a spelunking sheep rescuer stumbles upon two monster men attempting to work out their issues (like how one ate the other’s brother once upon a time, you know, the usual). Of course, one of the monster men, who appears all the more monstrous for the terrible wrongness of his beauty, just so happens to be said spelunkers’s soulmate.
The monstrous, yet not so monstrous, half of our soul-mated pair (Prince ‘Shadow Daddy’ Pelleas) has intrigued me since he first came on the scene in another Monsters of Faery tale and I just knew his story would be a whirlwind (and man was it ever). He grew up, for over a thousand years, hating himself and hiding his true identity to the point where he became indifferent to physical (and emotional) touch. There were so many instances where I just wanted to squish him and let him know all would be well in the end.
Then we have Cedar, the other half of our soul-mated pair. She comes onto the scene prepared for a solo outing with her trusty fanny pack filled with essentials and the details of her location left with a trusted source in case anything unexpected happens. (I do so love me a smart prepared girly, especially one who understands the appeal of a good fanny pack.) Of course, the unexpected does happen, just not in a way she ever could’ve figured. She stumbles upon a sheep in need of rescuing, then jinxes herself by saying, ‘Not like this is going to take me all day’, right before attempting to rescue said sheep. At this point, ‘Not all day’ becomes more like ‘It’s only forever, not long at all’. (Damn sexy monstrous Faery men.)
Once these two lock eyes, the fun and games truly begin, as their story is one of passion, obsession, devotion, agony, longing, exploration, connection, and pure power (with just the right amount of artistic flair). At times, Cedar may seem a bit cold, but she’s really not. She just has the bad ass ability to shove down the feels and get shit done, which plays an important role. And Pelleas, oh sweet Pelleas. The trust that boy puts in Cedar, especially since his life has never truly been his own, is both heartbreaking and awe inspiring. (He’s such a simp for his Queen and I’m so here for it.)
Additional musings (just cause):
One of Cedars thoughts that I totally agree with when it comes to Shadow Daddy Pelleas: ‘Pelleas' shadows were the best spies in the world. If time, distance, and political boundaries didn't hinder them, what would?’ (Nothing, the correct answer is nothing.)
Need a touch of spice to entice? How about: ‘I was cockwarming the Prince of Shadows from twelve feet away while he watched me.’ (Yeah, that part was pretty hot.)
All in all, Pelleas and Cedar’s story was a wonderful conclusion to this magical world of Faery that will be often thought of and sorely missed. I can’t wait to see what Mallory comes up with next.
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