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The Godkissed Bride #4
Cold Stars Midnight Glow
Her power can heal the world—or burn it down.
Sabine has survived death, but what rises in her place is something ancient and barely contained. Her fae nature demands blood, sacrifice, and dominance, making her previous life as a human feel like a fading dream. War-torn villagers beg her for miracles she can't yet perform. Her father, King of Fae, whispers of her great destiny. And through it all, Sabine clings to the only thing still tying her to the girl she used to be—Basten—and prays she doesn't break him in the process.
Basten would walk through hellfire to protect Sabine. But what if she is the fire? The deeper he digs into the fae court’s past—and Sabine’s place in it—the more he begins to question whether she needs his protection…or a leash. Torn between devotion and dread, he uncovers a truth buried in crumbling the fae don't just record ancient history. They repeat it. And this time, they've chosen Sabine as their deadliest weapon.
In this darkly romantic fourth book in the Godkissed Bride series, the line between girl and goddess cracks...and not everyone will survive the coming quake.
Sabine has survived death, but what rises in her place is something ancient and barely contained. Her fae nature demands blood, sacrifice, and dominance, making her previous life as a human feel like a fading dream. War-torn villagers beg her for miracles she can't yet perform. Her father, King of Fae, whispers of her great destiny. And through it all, Sabine clings to the only thing still tying her to the girl she used to be—Basten—and prays she doesn't break him in the process.
Basten would walk through hellfire to protect Sabine. But what if she is the fire? The deeper he digs into the fae court’s past—and Sabine’s place in it—the more he begins to question whether she needs his protection…or a leash. Torn between devotion and dread, he uncovers a truth buried in crumbling the fae don't just record ancient history. They repeat it. And this time, they've chosen Sabine as their deadliest weapon.
In this darkly romantic fourth book in the Godkissed Bride series, the line between girl and goddess cracks...and not everyone will survive the coming quake.
464 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 7, 2026
385 people are currently reading
1023 people want to read
About the author
Evie Marceau
15 books847 followersIt's possible I was born in the wrong time. I've always been drawn to the past, the future, other worlds—basically anywhere but the here and now. I write fantasy to satisfy my nagging curiosity that there is more out there, just beyond the veil.
Until I find a portal through a magical armoire, I'll continue writing romantic fantasies with a touch of darkness and hint of magic.
I'm the author of fantasy romance sagas include The Godkissed Bride series and The Castles of the Eyrie series.
Until I find a portal through a magical armoire, I'll continue writing romantic fantasies with a touch of darkness and hint of magic.
I'm the author of fantasy romance sagas include The Godkissed Bride series and The Castles of the Eyrie series.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews
January 10, 2026
Welp. There it goes again. Another blindsiding threesome from a supposed jealous/possessive relationship. The easiest and fastest way for authors to ruin their “romantasies” and lose their readers’ trust. To add insult to injury, she blatantly lied to her readers’ faces when she was asked before if this (threesome) will ever happen and she flat out said no. Add liar to that list, pls and thank u. Smh.
Can’t these exclusive couples in book series stay exclusive anymore?? Why is this becoming a trend for authors — throwing in threesomes or sharing in the middle of their Romantasy series??? Dammit this makes me SO mad.
Can’t these exclusive couples in book series stay exclusive anymore?? Why is this becoming a trend for authors — throwing in threesomes or sharing in the middle of their Romantasy series??? Dammit this makes me SO mad.
January 9, 2026
I received an ARC from Evie Marceau in exchange for an honest review.
This is a painful review to write. I have been a staunch supporter of The Godkissed Bride series from the beginning, and I believe in Sabine and Basten with my whole heart. They are feral in their devotion and bound by a love that has always felt inevitable. The emotional nucleus of this series has never wavered. Sabine and Basten would burn the world down just to stand together in the ashes.
Which is why Cold Stars Midnight Glow nearly became a DNF for me, and it breaks my heart to admit that.
The foundation of this story has always been the singular, obsessive love between Sabine and Basten. They are possessive, volatile, and unyielding in their bond. These are not characters who share. They have clawed their way through fate, gods, and politics to choose each other again and again.
More than anything, this scene reads as shock value rather than story necessity. It doesn’t meaningfully advance the plot, deepen the characters, or honor the stakes that once made this series so powerful. Instead, it undermines the very core of Sabine and Basten’s relationship.
I also struggled with how the conflict with the other fae gods was handled. What made the ending of book two and all of book three so riveting was the subtlety of their cruelty. These gods were vindictive and cunning. Their manipulations underhanded and cloaked in enigma. They felt ancient, calculating, and genuinely terrifying because their malice was restrained and intelligent.
In Cold Stars Midnight Glow, that nuance largely disappears. The gods are rendered overtly bloodthirsty, sex-crazed, and selfish in ways that feel cartoonish rather than menacing. The same heavy-handedness extends to Sabine’s new fae nature. Instead of exploring the psychological and moral cost of divinity we’re given excess without depth.
Power stops feeling dangerous when it loses its intelligence. Gods who announce their depravity rather than conceal it are caricatures not immortal chess masters. The tonal shift strips away the layered tension that once defined this world making what was compelling feel oddly hollow.
What makes this disappointment sting is how much I wanted to love this book. I wanted to defend it. I wanted to celebrate it. But the creative choices here contradict the emotional and thematic foundations that made this series resonate so deeply in the first place. Sabine and Basten deserved better than a moment that diminished the singularity of their love. And readers who have walked beside them from the beginning deserved a story that honored the promise made to them.
I will always love what The Godkissed Bride once was, and I sincerely hope the final book remembers what made it extraordinary.
This is a painful review to write. I have been a staunch supporter of The Godkissed Bride series from the beginning, and I believe in Sabine and Basten with my whole heart. They are feral in their devotion and bound by a love that has always felt inevitable. The emotional nucleus of this series has never wavered. Sabine and Basten would burn the world down just to stand together in the ashes.
Which is why Cold Stars Midnight Glow nearly became a DNF for me, and it breaks my heart to admit that.
The foundation of this story has always been the singular, obsessive love between Sabine and Basten. They are possessive, volatile, and unyielding in their bond. These are not characters who share. They have clawed their way through fate, gods, and politics to choose each other again and again.
More than anything, this scene reads as shock value rather than story necessity. It doesn’t meaningfully advance the plot, deepen the characters, or honor the stakes that once made this series so powerful. Instead, it undermines the very core of Sabine and Basten’s relationship.
I also struggled with how the conflict with the other fae gods was handled. What made the ending of book two and all of book three so riveting was the subtlety of their cruelty. These gods were vindictive and cunning. Their manipulations underhanded and cloaked in enigma. They felt ancient, calculating, and genuinely terrifying because their malice was restrained and intelligent.
In Cold Stars Midnight Glow, that nuance largely disappears. The gods are rendered overtly bloodthirsty, sex-crazed, and selfish in ways that feel cartoonish rather than menacing. The same heavy-handedness extends to Sabine’s new fae nature. Instead of exploring the psychological and moral cost of divinity we’re given excess without depth.
Power stops feeling dangerous when it loses its intelligence. Gods who announce their depravity rather than conceal it are caricatures not immortal chess masters. The tonal shift strips away the layered tension that once defined this world making what was compelling feel oddly hollow.
What makes this disappointment sting is how much I wanted to love this book. I wanted to defend it. I wanted to celebrate it. But the creative choices here contradict the emotional and thematic foundations that made this series resonate so deeply in the first place. Sabine and Basten deserved better than a moment that diminished the singularity of their love. And readers who have walked beside them from the beginning deserved a story that honored the promise made to them.
I will always love what The Godkissed Bride once was, and I sincerely hope the final book remembers what made it extraordinary.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I want to thank Evie for allowing me to arc read as I really enjoyed the first three books.
I took some time to write out all my thoughts a little better since I felt my initial review was all over the place (lol).
I have been a hardcore supporter of the series for a while and always thought it was severely underrated. An interesting plot, likable characters and a forbidden, possessive, swoon worthy romance. Which is why I was blindsided & disappointed by the threesome between Basten, Sabine and Rian. There are several reasons why this narrative choice unfortunately ruined the series for me and I won’t be continuing.
1. Personal preference. I don’t enjoy romance books where the couple share one another. Okay, now that’s out of the way…
2. My main issue with the narrative choice...there are SO many ways to handle conflict or tension without sex being involved. Using sex to resolve their issues felt weak instead of letting the characters have solid development or communicate. Especially with someone the main characters don’t even really like. I understand Sabine is also Solene and her wants and needs have changed. However, it still doesn't change the fact that the scene felt like such a forced way to make a threesome work. Instead of being cohesive to the story, it felt forced, out of place and out of character. The justification didn't work for me.
3. It felt out of character for both of them. We have followed Basten and Sabine's forbidden love for three books. Their forbidden romance and their decision to get away from Rian's rule seems all for nothing after this choice. And Sabine willingly participated in this after knowing how her friend started to feel about Rian. Sabine is a now a really bad friend & her integrity is called into question. I just think shoving something like this in book four out of five after having three prior books of them doing everything they can to be together with no hint of things going in this direction, was just a really poor choice.
Does Rian need to be put in his place, learn to respect Basten and Sabine because he caused them so much grief and have some development? Yes! I understand the "power play" aspect of it all...but for me, it ruined the core romance.
While authors absolutely have the right to write what they want, this book should have been marketed a little differently (in my opinion) instead of surprising readers with such a sudden change in direction. Readers should have been given a heads up that a threesome was going to happen eventually so they could decide early on whether or not to continue the series. Even if it's a "one time thing" readers still needed to be able to decide that for themselves instead of investing into three books with what they thought was a strictly monogamous relationship. This is (unfortunately) why some people are scared to start an unfinished series.
What made this forbidden romance so special now feels cheapened. I guess as a loyal reader since the beginning, I almost feel betrayed (dramatic I know) because the characters we know and love are nowhere to be found. I felt like I was reading a completely different book with characters I’ve never met.
Keep in mind this is just my opinion and preferences, some readers may not be bothered by this scene but I am just not a fan of the direction it went as I feel it made no sense to the story or for the characters.
Even though I am disappointed, I wish the author nothing but success and was thankful for the opportunity to arc read the last couple of books.
I took some time to write out all my thoughts a little better since I felt my initial review was all over the place (lol).
I have been a hardcore supporter of the series for a while and always thought it was severely underrated. An interesting plot, likable characters and a forbidden, possessive, swoon worthy romance. Which is why I was blindsided & disappointed by the threesome between Basten, Sabine and Rian. There are several reasons why this narrative choice unfortunately ruined the series for me and I won’t be continuing.
1. Personal preference. I don’t enjoy romance books where the couple share one another. Okay, now that’s out of the way…
2. My main issue with the narrative choice...there are SO many ways to handle conflict or tension without sex being involved. Using sex to resolve their issues felt weak instead of letting the characters have solid development or communicate. Especially with someone the main characters don’t even really like. I understand Sabine is also Solene and her wants and needs have changed. However, it still doesn't change the fact that the scene felt like such a forced way to make a threesome work. Instead of being cohesive to the story, it felt forced, out of place and out of character. The justification didn't work for me.
3. It felt out of character for both of them. We have followed Basten and Sabine's forbidden love for three books. Their forbidden romance and their decision to get away from Rian's rule seems all for nothing after this choice. And Sabine willingly participated in this after knowing how her friend started to feel about Rian. Sabine is a now a really bad friend & her integrity is called into question. I just think shoving something like this in book four out of five after having three prior books of them doing everything they can to be together with no hint of things going in this direction, was just a really poor choice.
Does Rian need to be put in his place, learn to respect Basten and Sabine because he caused them so much grief and have some development? Yes! I understand the "power play" aspect of it all...but for me, it ruined the core romance.
While authors absolutely have the right to write what they want, this book should have been marketed a little differently (in my opinion) instead of surprising readers with such a sudden change in direction. Readers should have been given a heads up that a threesome was going to happen eventually so they could decide early on whether or not to continue the series. Even if it's a "one time thing" readers still needed to be able to decide that for themselves instead of investing into three books with what they thought was a strictly monogamous relationship. This is (unfortunately) why some people are scared to start an unfinished series.
What made this forbidden romance so special now feels cheapened. I guess as a loyal reader since the beginning, I almost feel betrayed (dramatic I know) because the characters we know and love are nowhere to be found. I felt like I was reading a completely different book with characters I’ve never met.
Keep in mind this is just my opinion and preferences, some readers may not be bothered by this scene but I am just not a fan of the direction it went as I feel it made no sense to the story or for the characters.
Even though I am disappointed, I wish the author nothing but success and was thankful for the opportunity to arc read the last couple of books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
**I was given an electronic advanced readers copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.**
I edited this review because I feel my original review did not accurately reflect how disappointed I am in this release.
Just a warning there may be spoilers in this review.
The reason for the 2 star rating is that I felt the characters were very out of character. Sabine became a different person. While I get she's a goddess now and that changes things...she treats Basten horribly and I can't get behind that. One of the chapters had been hyped up just for the sexual content and not in a good way. It's only a one time thing according to Basten. Poor guy was not happy about it at all. Sabine, Basten, and Rian have a threesome. While Rian didn't do any penetration it was still gross in my opinion. The last three books were about Sabine and Basten getting away from Rian and how much they disliked him/what he did. To throw that all away for a shock value threesome? I don't get it.
The whole thing makes no sense to me. What was really hard to read was seeing how bad a friend Sabine is to Suri. Suri confessed her feelings for Rian to Sabine. Sabine turns around and decides to have a threesome with him??? Like what?
I feel the author should have marketed this series better to reflect what she knew was going to happen. Don't market a book to be a forbidden romance and fated mates just to have a threesome happen. People are rightfully upset.
This book was my most anticipated read and turned out to be my most disappointing read. I have dropped the series.
Thank you to the author for this ARC.
The author told people this type of relationship between the three of them wouldn't happen. I can't continue with a series if the author can't tell the truth to her loyal fans.
I edited this review because I feel my original review did not accurately reflect how disappointed I am in this release.
Just a warning there may be spoilers in this review.
The reason for the 2 star rating is that I felt the characters were very out of character. Sabine became a different person. While I get she's a goddess now and that changes things...she treats Basten horribly and I can't get behind that. One of the chapters had been hyped up just for the sexual content and not in a good way. It's only a one time thing according to Basten. Poor guy was not happy about it at all. Sabine, Basten, and Rian have a threesome. While Rian didn't do any penetration it was still gross in my opinion. The last three books were about Sabine and Basten getting away from Rian and how much they disliked him/what he did. To throw that all away for a shock value threesome? I don't get it.
The whole thing makes no sense to me. What was really hard to read was seeing how bad a friend Sabine is to Suri. Suri confessed her feelings for Rian to Sabine. Sabine turns around and decides to have a threesome with him??? Like what?
I feel the author should have marketed this series better to reflect what she knew was going to happen. Don't market a book to be a forbidden romance and fated mates just to have a threesome happen. People are rightfully upset.
This book was my most anticipated read and turned out to be my most disappointing read. I have dropped the series.
Thank you to the author for this ARC.
The author told people this type of relationship between the three of them wouldn't happen. I can't continue with a series if the author can't tell the truth to her loyal fans.
January 11, 2026
I feel like I'm being punked. This book is why people wait for a series to be completed before they even start it. Cheap shock factor creative choices that steer characters so far off coarse that it completely changes the dynamics and feel of the series. Another one bites the dust and all trust with the author is gone.
January 8, 2026
If you're seeing this series for the first time, I am genuinely jealous of you because you get to binge four books in a row.
And when I say bingeable, I mean it. This is the kind of series that grabs you immediately, drags you under, and refuses to let you come up for air.
I'm completely obsessed. I've screamed about this series many times before (side note: please read my other reviews, they mean the world to me).
But now that we're four books in? I am more stressed than I've ever been... in the best way.
I can’t say much without spoiling anything, so heres what can tell you:
The characters? Hotter than ever.
The new characters? Also... hotter than ever.
Fantasy romance perfection? Absolutely.
This story delivers yearning, obsession, passion, loss, pain, shocking twists... and maybe a threesome. Just kidding ...Or am I?
At its heart, this series feels like the journey of a butterfly. All about transformation, self acceptance, and stepping into who you're meant to become.
It's also one of my all time favorite found family stories. The emotional core is powerful: choosing your own path no matter who's trying to push you in another direction, standing up for yourself, and fighting for what you believe is right. It's inspiring and deeply moving.
And then there's Basten. He is hotter than ever.
The man that he is. He literally reminds me of a bear or a tree. Big, strong, steady, grounding... LOL. But in all seriousness, he is comfort and safety incarnate. If you are yearning for a love interest with major Aragorn vibes, look no further.
"I want every version of you. Each terrible and beautiful part. You won't scare me away. You could break the world in half, and I'd still be at your side."
Excuse me while I scream.
And if you're even slightly intrigued by a delicious, dangerous god of death making an appearance? You must read this series.
If you're like me and you are obsessed with animal companions, this series will own your heart. They are essential to the story, and you fall in love with them immediately.
The spice? Tasty. Delicious.
I'll leave you with one of my favorite quotes:
"You want worship? I can do more with my tongue than speak prayers."
Yeah.
I'm going to go take a cold shower, and you're going to go start this series immediately.
Happy reading!
And when I say bingeable, I mean it. This is the kind of series that grabs you immediately, drags you under, and refuses to let you come up for air.
I'm completely obsessed. I've screamed about this series many times before (side note: please read my other reviews, they mean the world to me).
But now that we're four books in? I am more stressed than I've ever been... in the best way.
I can’t say much without spoiling anything, so heres what can tell you:
The characters? Hotter than ever.
The new characters? Also... hotter than ever.
Fantasy romance perfection? Absolutely.
This story delivers yearning, obsession, passion, loss, pain, shocking twists... and maybe a threesome. Just kidding ...Or am I?
At its heart, this series feels like the journey of a butterfly. All about transformation, self acceptance, and stepping into who you're meant to become.
It's also one of my all time favorite found family stories. The emotional core is powerful: choosing your own path no matter who's trying to push you in another direction, standing up for yourself, and fighting for what you believe is right. It's inspiring and deeply moving.
And then there's Basten. He is hotter than ever.
The man that he is. He literally reminds me of a bear or a tree. Big, strong, steady, grounding... LOL. But in all seriousness, he is comfort and safety incarnate. If you are yearning for a love interest with major Aragorn vibes, look no further.
"I want every version of you. Each terrible and beautiful part. You won't scare me away. You could break the world in half, and I'd still be at your side."
Excuse me while I scream.
And if you're even slightly intrigued by a delicious, dangerous god of death making an appearance? You must read this series.
If you're like me and you are obsessed with animal companions, this series will own your heart. They are essential to the story, and you fall in love with them immediately.
The spice? Tasty. Delicious.
I'll leave you with one of my favorite quotes:
"You want worship? I can do more with my tongue than speak prayers."
Yeah.
I'm going to go take a cold shower, and you're going to go start this series immediately.
Happy reading!
January 9, 2026
DNF, returned. Why did you have to ruin a perfectly good love story? I'll return if another book comes out and Basten and Sabine are rectified.
Mocking readers for their reaction to a love story that had a loyal and invested audience sucks.
Mocking readers for their reaction to a love story that had a loyal and invested audience sucks.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an eARC directly from the author, and this is my honest review.
This has MAJOR spoilers below!
- Dual POV ✌🏻
- 🧚♀️ Fae gods
- MMC & MFC finally together 🫂
- ❤️ loyalty to each other, not matter what
- 💍 a wedding
- 🧟♂️Zombies
- Betrayal 🔪
- 🩸 revenge
- MFC villain era 🦹♀️
This was a 3-4 star read for me. I love this series! I will note though, out of the four books, this was my least favorite. The first three had sooooo much angst and plot that I couldn't put any of them down. This book focused more on growth and struggles in the MCs relationship. This is not bad by any means and I enjoyed it, but it did not have that pull and the plot was slower. This book does, however, set up book 5 to have that thick plot and angst I am looking forward to.
Alright, let's immediately jump in and address the big event that happened in chapter 27 that is causing people to DNF this book or lower their rating. I will start with my overall opinion and then digest the pros and cons to chapter 27.
————————————-
A comment I am adding since my initial review. I’ve lost trust in the author and here is why: several readers reached out to the author and her PA early in this series specifically asking if a threesome would be included in future books (needed to know if the series was worth investing in for them), both of whom said no. It is completely fine for an author to change the direction in a future book from what they originally planned, it is their series! However, a respectful thing to do with these loyal readers is to give a warning that she changed the direction originally planned or give a trigger warning. People have invested in Evie by purchasing special editions and signed copies due to her response directly to them. No one should be controlled by the readers, yet at the same time I hope authors consider their readers and how much time and money they’re investing.
Secondly, the author sent ARC readers an email saying please reach out with questions, including having a giveaway signup if feedback was provided. ARC readers did reach out with questions. The author then shamed them by making a public statement in the Evie readers FB group about how people should not reach out to her and she will not respond to them. YIKES!! It was very gaslighting of the author to do this. Most readers did nothing disrespectful. They privately reached out, in a kind way (I’m sure some didn’t, I’m not naive), asked questions and shared why they were confused.
The author made a creative decision that was a direction she explicitly said she wouldn’t go. She changed her mind. Fine, but own that and stop blaming readers, publicly, especially when they reached out privately.
————————————-
Overall opinion: This scene/chapter was an immature way to resolve conflict between the MCs. They were both feeling unheard by each other and that a drift was developing between them. Therefore, a three some with the MMC's ex-best friend and the MFC's ex-fiancé, whom controlled both of them was the answer? The author sprinkled a small rationale into the narrative to justify the threesome, but after this event, both MCs say that they needed that to be on the same page with each other. This was confusing and, frankly, juvenile. Keeping secrets and not having mature conversations was the problem between the MCs... What I was hoping for was that the MCs would reflect on the issues presenting them, process that together, and make commitment to change, including honest and direct communication, as well as understanding and empathy. Having a threesome with a friend does not trigger any growth for what the original issues were....
Cons to this chapter: This felt like a betrayal to the readers... even readers who liked this chapter stated it was a surprise. The first three books, and this one, were ALL about how strong the connection was between the MFC and MMC. They would defy their previous vows, friends, people, etc to be with each other. The MMC is possessive and ruthless in that possession. The MFC would do anything to keep the MMC safe and the MMC would do anything to be by the MFC's side. In the second book, when Rian would touch the MFC, she would look at the MMC and imagine it was the MMC. He would get super jealous and later claim her. Now, we are suppose to believe he would agree to a threesome with the man who betrayed them and this event solved all their communication issues and emotional distance? Yea right. We, readers, have been led to believe this was a love story about these two and how they would get away from Rian and his ruling. They defeat all odds, together. To throw in a random sex scene with Rian was cheap, not well rationalized, and the outcome did not make sense to depth of the issues the author wrote the MCs were having.
Truly, the author blindsided the readers with this, hence why it feels like a betrayal. Many readers don’t read “why choose,” reverse harem, or books where the main couples are not monogamous. All three books are about the MC’s fighting to be together behind Rian’s back, and this book is about the MCs hating Rian. So, to all of a sudden have the book be about a threesome was so off. This was inconsistent with the character’s relationship with each other. Let’s be clear: There’s nothing wrong with why choose, reverse harem, polygamy, sexual kinks, or sexual exploration. This series, however, has never been marketed this way in any capacity. Nor was there any warning for any readers that this was going to happen, so I can see why loyal readers felt this was not excellent and why they are quitting the series. I wonder how much this chapter was influenced by the culture and readers wanting sexual diversity. I know a threesome is a hot debate in another series, bringing a lot of attention to that book/series. Yet, in that series that rationale was super clear and very strong (friend will die, getting together will save one of them), and it was not surprising.
Of note, I get that the MFC needed more than what the MMC could offer. In this book, the MMC is written as thinking how grateful he is to be the ONLY one to give the MFC what she needs. Therefore, it would have been a much better book if it focused on the MMC having to grow and realize he cannot provide everything for her, allowing her to drink from Rian, but not be sexually intimate. This could have furthered the point of the MFC and MMC getting their power back, together, from Rian and how he previously controlled them.
Furthermore, and IMPORTANTLY!!!!! I am sad to see the MFC act this way towards Rian. Her BEST FRIEND Suri, one of the only two friends she has, literally showed that she had feelings for Rian and even RECENTLY KISSED HIM. So, what does the MFC do, has a three some with Rian? Yikes... what a crappy thing to do to your friend for your own selfishness. How does the MFC explain this to Suri after she did everything for the MFC?
Lastly, this was labeled, by the MMC, as a one time thing. So again, what was the point in the first place? The MFC was depleted. Let her drink Rian's blood, then the MMC's, and then be intimate with the MMC, her husband. Drinking from both but only being intimate with the MMC happened later in the book when she was depleted and that worked, so why did the threesome need to happen previously? To solve the thing between the three? What?
Pros: I truly see very little point to this chapter. I thought chapter 26 laid great ground work, this was all about the MFC getting her power back from Rian. He made her and Basten do so many things that they did not want to, include hide their relationship with each other. Therefore, to make Rian get on his knees and kiss their feet was awesome. Here would have been a great opportunity for it to shift into the MFC taking Rian's blood, the MMC having to grow and accept his wife for who she is and that she needs more than he can offer, Rian being put in his place, and the MFC being empowered. I can see that the MMC was getting his power back by controlling Rian the whole time, but it had to be this way?
- One of the only things I truly saw come out of this chapter that made sense is that it allowed Rian to feel aligned with the two MCs, as Rian has always felt on the outside. He just wants to be accepted, so to be included in intimacy with the MMC and MFC helped him feel connected. This is especially true since the MFC was his previous fiancé and he and the MMC used to have threesomes all the time.
Moving on!
This book picks up right where book 3 ended. It launches right into an action scene. I enjoyed this! After this, the pacing ebbs and flows, getting more slow at times. It picks back up during the last 15%.
In this book, we watch both the MFC and MMC start their new roles, even though they are fighting/not wanting them. Specially, the MFC as a fae and god, while the MMC as a king since Rian went missing. The MMC is trying to pretend he is not a king; yet, he acts like one. We also watch the MFC learn her power, with successes and failures. I could feel her excitement, while also her sadness when she made mistakes. I could also feel the MMC's fear of the MFC's growing into someone he did not know. I enjoyed having these emotions provoked, well done Evie! Although the MFC does change in many ways, she stays the same in others. For example, she continues to be more trusting and naïve than most, like she was with the farm boy in book one. I liked that some of her root traits maintained, even though you wanted her to open her eyes more, at times.
Speaking of provoking emotions, that wedding and the MMC. Ugh, he was so cute being all nervous having a fairytale wedding perfect for his bride. I was so excited for them to FINALLY have their moment. I mean seriously, it took four books (which was totally ok by me!). Then, the distance that grows between the MCs, that ached and hurt while reading. Again, well done to Evie writing pages that caused me to have so many different feelings. Another point where I had a big emotion was when the MCs find Rian and Rian sees the MFC's wedding ring. Rian tells the MFC that the MMC also gave him a vow and then betrayed that. I wanted to smack Rian. The vows between the MMC and MFC were mutual, coming from love and respect. The vow from the MMC to Rian was one way and Rian abused him... nice try at manipulating, Rian.
Despite Rian being Rian (he is an excellent character, by the way), he did have some redemption in this book and I was ALL FOR IT. The MFC was onto something about Rian just wanting to be accepted, which he thought he would obtain through power. Rian is such an excellent main side character and he brings so much to the plot. I am excited to see what becomes of him, especially the tension building between him and Suri.
In regards to the plot, it is heavily focused on the MCs and the distance growing between them. I am happy their distance was resolved and they are now back to being fully together. I will note that, no matter the distance that grew and the secrets they kept, they were still devoted to each other, which I LOVED. There is a side plot that moves forward at a slower pace. Again, it picks up at the end.
Other things I enjoyed in this book is the MFC finally has the power to stand up for herself and obtain revenge. Further, we learn more about the fae and gods, including who the MFC is. I love that the MFC defied all the gods and kept her path, even when drawn to the more fae tendencies.
Then the end, WHAT? I would not call the ending a major cliffhanger, but major questions: 1) what is going to happen next book with the fae gods and 2) what is going on with the MFC!!
This has MAJOR spoilers below!
- Dual POV ✌🏻
- 🧚♀️ Fae gods
- MMC & MFC finally together 🫂
- ❤️ loyalty to each other, not matter what
- 💍 a wedding
- 🧟♂️Zombies
- Betrayal 🔪
- 🩸 revenge
- MFC villain era 🦹♀️
This was a 3-4 star read for me. I love this series! I will note though, out of the four books, this was my least favorite. The first three had sooooo much angst and plot that I couldn't put any of them down. This book focused more on growth and struggles in the MCs relationship. This is not bad by any means and I enjoyed it, but it did not have that pull and the plot was slower. This book does, however, set up book 5 to have that thick plot and angst I am looking forward to.
Alright, let's immediately jump in and address the big event that happened in chapter 27 that is causing people to DNF this book or lower their rating. I will start with my overall opinion and then digest the pros and cons to chapter 27.
————————————-
A comment I am adding since my initial review. I’ve lost trust in the author and here is why: several readers reached out to the author and her PA early in this series specifically asking if a threesome would be included in future books (needed to know if the series was worth investing in for them), both of whom said no. It is completely fine for an author to change the direction in a future book from what they originally planned, it is their series! However, a respectful thing to do with these loyal readers is to give a warning that she changed the direction originally planned or give a trigger warning. People have invested in Evie by purchasing special editions and signed copies due to her response directly to them. No one should be controlled by the readers, yet at the same time I hope authors consider their readers and how much time and money they’re investing.
Secondly, the author sent ARC readers an email saying please reach out with questions, including having a giveaway signup if feedback was provided. ARC readers did reach out with questions. The author then shamed them by making a public statement in the Evie readers FB group about how people should not reach out to her and she will not respond to them. YIKES!! It was very gaslighting of the author to do this. Most readers did nothing disrespectful. They privately reached out, in a kind way (I’m sure some didn’t, I’m not naive), asked questions and shared why they were confused.
The author made a creative decision that was a direction she explicitly said she wouldn’t go. She changed her mind. Fine, but own that and stop blaming readers, publicly, especially when they reached out privately.
————————————-
Overall opinion: This scene/chapter was an immature way to resolve conflict between the MCs. They were both feeling unheard by each other and that a drift was developing between them. Therefore, a three some with the MMC's ex-best friend and the MFC's ex-fiancé, whom controlled both of them was the answer? The author sprinkled a small rationale into the narrative to justify the threesome, but after this event, both MCs say that they needed that to be on the same page with each other. This was confusing and, frankly, juvenile. Keeping secrets and not having mature conversations was the problem between the MCs... What I was hoping for was that the MCs would reflect on the issues presenting them, process that together, and make commitment to change, including honest and direct communication, as well as understanding and empathy. Having a threesome with a friend does not trigger any growth for what the original issues were....
Cons to this chapter: This felt like a betrayal to the readers... even readers who liked this chapter stated it was a surprise. The first three books, and this one, were ALL about how strong the connection was between the MFC and MMC. They would defy their previous vows, friends, people, etc to be with each other. The MMC is possessive and ruthless in that possession. The MFC would do anything to keep the MMC safe and the MMC would do anything to be by the MFC's side. In the second book, when Rian would touch the MFC, she would look at the MMC and imagine it was the MMC. He would get super jealous and later claim her. Now, we are suppose to believe he would agree to a threesome with the man who betrayed them and this event solved all their communication issues and emotional distance? Yea right. We, readers, have been led to believe this was a love story about these two and how they would get away from Rian and his ruling. They defeat all odds, together. To throw in a random sex scene with Rian was cheap, not well rationalized, and the outcome did not make sense to depth of the issues the author wrote the MCs were having.
Truly, the author blindsided the readers with this, hence why it feels like a betrayal. Many readers don’t read “why choose,” reverse harem, or books where the main couples are not monogamous. All three books are about the MC’s fighting to be together behind Rian’s back, and this book is about the MCs hating Rian. So, to all of a sudden have the book be about a threesome was so off. This was inconsistent with the character’s relationship with each other. Let’s be clear: There’s nothing wrong with why choose, reverse harem, polygamy, sexual kinks, or sexual exploration. This series, however, has never been marketed this way in any capacity. Nor was there any warning for any readers that this was going to happen, so I can see why loyal readers felt this was not excellent and why they are quitting the series. I wonder how much this chapter was influenced by the culture and readers wanting sexual diversity. I know a threesome is a hot debate in another series, bringing a lot of attention to that book/series. Yet, in that series that rationale was super clear and very strong (friend will die, getting together will save one of them), and it was not surprising.
Of note, I get that the MFC needed more than what the MMC could offer. In this book, the MMC is written as thinking how grateful he is to be the ONLY one to give the MFC what she needs. Therefore, it would have been a much better book if it focused on the MMC having to grow and realize he cannot provide everything for her, allowing her to drink from Rian, but not be sexually intimate. This could have furthered the point of the MFC and MMC getting their power back, together, from Rian and how he previously controlled them.
Furthermore, and IMPORTANTLY!!!!! I am sad to see the MFC act this way towards Rian. Her BEST FRIEND Suri, one of the only two friends she has, literally showed that she had feelings for Rian and even RECENTLY KISSED HIM. So, what does the MFC do, has a three some with Rian? Yikes... what a crappy thing to do to your friend for your own selfishness. How does the MFC explain this to Suri after she did everything for the MFC?
Lastly, this was labeled, by the MMC, as a one time thing. So again, what was the point in the first place? The MFC was depleted. Let her drink Rian's blood, then the MMC's, and then be intimate with the MMC, her husband. Drinking from both but only being intimate with the MMC happened later in the book when she was depleted and that worked, so why did the threesome need to happen previously? To solve the thing between the three? What?
Pros: I truly see very little point to this chapter. I thought chapter 26 laid great ground work, this was all about the MFC getting her power back from Rian. He made her and Basten do so many things that they did not want to, include hide their relationship with each other. Therefore, to make Rian get on his knees and kiss their feet was awesome. Here would have been a great opportunity for it to shift into the MFC taking Rian's blood, the MMC having to grow and accept his wife for who she is and that she needs more than he can offer, Rian being put in his place, and the MFC being empowered. I can see that the MMC was getting his power back by controlling Rian the whole time, but it had to be this way?
- One of the only things I truly saw come out of this chapter that made sense is that it allowed Rian to feel aligned with the two MCs, as Rian has always felt on the outside. He just wants to be accepted, so to be included in intimacy with the MMC and MFC helped him feel connected. This is especially true since the MFC was his previous fiancé and he and the MMC used to have threesomes all the time.
Moving on!
This book picks up right where book 3 ended. It launches right into an action scene. I enjoyed this! After this, the pacing ebbs and flows, getting more slow at times. It picks back up during the last 15%.
In this book, we watch both the MFC and MMC start their new roles, even though they are fighting/not wanting them. Specially, the MFC as a fae and god, while the MMC as a king since Rian went missing. The MMC is trying to pretend he is not a king; yet, he acts like one. We also watch the MFC learn her power, with successes and failures. I could feel her excitement, while also her sadness when she made mistakes. I could also feel the MMC's fear of the MFC's growing into someone he did not know. I enjoyed having these emotions provoked, well done Evie! Although the MFC does change in many ways, she stays the same in others. For example, she continues to be more trusting and naïve than most, like she was with the farm boy in book one. I liked that some of her root traits maintained, even though you wanted her to open her eyes more, at times.
Speaking of provoking emotions, that wedding and the MMC. Ugh, he was so cute being all nervous having a fairytale wedding perfect for his bride. I was so excited for them to FINALLY have their moment. I mean seriously, it took four books (which was totally ok by me!). Then, the distance that grows between the MCs, that ached and hurt while reading. Again, well done to Evie writing pages that caused me to have so many different feelings. Another point where I had a big emotion was when the MCs find Rian and Rian sees the MFC's wedding ring. Rian tells the MFC that the MMC also gave him a vow and then betrayed that. I wanted to smack Rian. The vows between the MMC and MFC were mutual, coming from love and respect. The vow from the MMC to Rian was one way and Rian abused him... nice try at manipulating, Rian.
Despite Rian being Rian (he is an excellent character, by the way), he did have some redemption in this book and I was ALL FOR IT. The MFC was onto something about Rian just wanting to be accepted, which he thought he would obtain through power. Rian is such an excellent main side character and he brings so much to the plot. I am excited to see what becomes of him, especially the tension building between him and Suri.
In regards to the plot, it is heavily focused on the MCs and the distance growing between them. I am happy their distance was resolved and they are now back to being fully together. I will note that, no matter the distance that grew and the secrets they kept, they were still devoted to each other, which I LOVED. There is a side plot that moves forward at a slower pace. Again, it picks up at the end.
Other things I enjoyed in this book is the MFC finally has the power to stand up for herself and obtain revenge. Further, we learn more about the fae and gods, including who the MFC is. I love that the MFC defied all the gods and kept her path, even when drawn to the more fae tendencies.
Then the end, WHAT? I would not call the ending a major cliffhanger, but major questions: 1) what is going to happen next book with the fae gods and 2) what is going on with the MFC!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 2, 2026
Thank you Evie for letting me read this ARC
2,5 ⭐ 2 🌶️
SPOILERS!!
I hate having to write this review about one of my absolute favorite romantasy series. I loved the first three books and have supported this story for a long time. But this book felt different in a way that didn’t work for me. Sabine and Basten suddenly had no chemistry, and the story felt messy and unfocused compared to the earlier books. The emotional thread that held everything together before just wasn’t there anymore. The narrative choices.. especially the threesome felt forced and out of character, and it ruined the romance I had loved for so long. That said, I will still read the final book, hoping this was just a bump in the road and not the end of what made this series so special to me.
2,5 ⭐ 2 🌶️
SPOILERS!!
I hate having to write this review about one of my absolute favorite romantasy series. I loved the first three books and have supported this story for a long time. But this book felt different in a way that didn’t work for me. Sabine and Basten suddenly had no chemistry, and the story felt messy and unfocused compared to the earlier books. The emotional thread that held everything together before just wasn’t there anymore. The narrative choices.. especially the threesome felt forced and out of character, and it ruined the romance I had loved for so long. That said, I will still read the final book, hoping this was just a bump in the road and not the end of what made this series so special to me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 8, 2026
These two stars aren’t for a bad book. They’re for a bad decision.
I personally love why choose books. RH, MFM, MMF, whatever. The more the merrier.
The other side of my coin: cheating is my one and only trigger. It’s a mega trigger. It will ruin my day.
The difference is consent, obviously. For me though, the consent must be enthusiastic on all sides. Feelings of jealousy and inadequacy are the deal breakers.
I absolutely, positively hate the idea of characters being forced to “make it work”. We’ve had 3 books of these two characters loving one another. Fighting against other men has been the primary source of conflict. For two of those books they were fighting against Rian specifically. Sabine has never expressed any sexual interest in him. So rationally, the only reason this is happening now is because she has “needs” that the MMC can’t meet, and that immediately takes me out of the audience. It is a hard-line no for me.
My stomach started hurting on Basten’s behalf in chapter 2 and things didn’t improve much from there.
Additionally, we have a sympathetic female character who has been building feelings for Rian. Why would an author choose to have the FMC do this to one of her only friends?
These are the reasons that it didn’t work for me personally, despite my willingness to accept poly romances in general.
But this was also a poor decision for other reasons. Consent also needs to come from the readers, and this was not advertised appropriately. Sure, I love RH, but not everyone does and that’s perfectly fine. Their desires should also be respected. That’s not what they signed up for.
The author was aware of this for 3 books. There was an opportunity for a throuple to happen in book 2, but it didn’t. When it didn’t, it assured the readers that this isn’t That Type of story. That’s not even mentioning that the author specifically told concerned readers that this would not happen. Getting people invested in a story with characters they love, only to take it to a place that makes them uncomfortable, is an asshole move.
I’m incredibly disappointed. And honestly mystified. This was random, unnecessary, and incredibly destructive.
I didn’t enjoy Sabines character at all in this book. Sadly, I won’t be continuing with the series.
I personally love why choose books. RH, MFM, MMF, whatever. The more the merrier.
The other side of my coin: cheating is my one and only trigger. It’s a mega trigger. It will ruin my day.
The difference is consent, obviously. For me though, the consent must be enthusiastic on all sides. Feelings of jealousy and inadequacy are the deal breakers.
I absolutely, positively hate the idea of characters being forced to “make it work”. We’ve had 3 books of these two characters loving one another. Fighting against other men has been the primary source of conflict. For two of those books they were fighting against Rian specifically. Sabine has never expressed any sexual interest in him. So rationally, the only reason this is happening now is because she has “needs” that the MMC can’t meet, and that immediately takes me out of the audience. It is a hard-line no for me.
My stomach started hurting on Basten’s behalf in chapter 2 and things didn’t improve much from there.
Additionally, we have a sympathetic female character who has been building feelings for Rian. Why would an author choose to have the FMC do this to one of her only friends?
These are the reasons that it didn’t work for me personally, despite my willingness to accept poly romances in general.
But this was also a poor decision for other reasons. Consent also needs to come from the readers, and this was not advertised appropriately. Sure, I love RH, but not everyone does and that’s perfectly fine. Their desires should also be respected. That’s not what they signed up for.
The author was aware of this for 3 books. There was an opportunity for a throuple to happen in book 2, but it didn’t. When it didn’t, it assured the readers that this isn’t That Type of story. That’s not even mentioning that the author specifically told concerned readers that this would not happen. Getting people invested in a story with characters they love, only to take it to a place that makes them uncomfortable, is an asshole move.
I’m incredibly disappointed. And honestly mystified. This was random, unnecessary, and incredibly destructive.
I didn’t enjoy Sabines character at all in this book. Sadly, I won’t be continuing with the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 1, 2026
Honestly heartbroken to write this review. I’m a huge lover of this series. The forbidden romance, the tension, the unique world and plot: this all made me love this series.
The memory lose trope of the last book made me wary, but I pushed through for Bastien. This world and its characters is everything, so I thought I’d give it another chance.
I wish I would’ve stopped before I got to this book. It kind of takes everything from the series and disregards it. The whole plot of everything is to get away from Rian, and now we have this? This was the final straw for me, and I’ll no longer be continuing this series.
I will say, if you like Rian, you’ll love this book. But if you’re like me and not a fan, especially as a love interest, I recommend skimming certain portions of this book. You’ll know the portions when you get there.
Thank you very much to Evie Marceau for an arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The memory lose trope of the last book made me wary, but I pushed through for Bastien. This world and its characters is everything, so I thought I’d give it another chance.
I wish I would’ve stopped before I got to this book. It kind of takes everything from the series and disregards it. The whole plot of everything is to get away from Rian, and now we have this? This was the final straw for me, and I’ll no longer be continuing this series.
I will say, if you like Rian, you’ll love this book. But if you’re like me and not a fan, especially as a love interest, I recommend skimming certain portions of this book. You’ll know the portions when you get there.
Thank you very much to Evie Marceau for an arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 11, 2026
Such disappointment and a sacrilege of the relationship between Basten and Sabine’s relationship. This wild and reckless devotion to each other was twisted, ripped apart, and fused back together with something tainted. I almost DNF this book but was too far into it that I did indeed finish but there was no redemption. The majority of the book was Sabine losing her humanity and turning into a cold and vengeful fae while Basten tried to keep her from destroying the entire world and reminding her of her humanity while also being a slave to her through blood, body and worship. It was truly saddening to see him debase himself and turn into someone so desperate for a place beside her that he would give up his morals and allow another man to share the body of his wife. The whole thing was gross.
As for the portrayal of the fae court, that was done so poorly as well. To portray them as cold and devoid of any care for humanity and only a desire to rule supreme through force and threat was a complete contradiction to the whole premise that their strength depended on devotion and prayer. It just did not make any sense.
While there is one book left in the series, I will not be reading it. It is such a shame because I absolutely loved the first three books. The author just took a complete wrong turn with this plot and anything further is tainted in my opinion.
As for the portrayal of the fae court, that was done so poorly as well. To portray them as cold and devoid of any care for humanity and only a desire to rule supreme through force and threat was a complete contradiction to the whole premise that their strength depended on devotion and prayer. It just did not make any sense.
While there is one book left in the series, I will not be reading it. It is such a shame because I absolutely loved the first three books. The author just took a complete wrong turn with this plot and anything further is tainted in my opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This pains me a bit to say, but book 4 is my least liked of the series. I absolutely devoured books 1-3, but there's a big change that weakens the relationship between Basten and Sabine in my opinion.
It felt very square peg round hole to have their resolution made the way it is. It honestly didn't feel like it fit the overall plot, but I love the series enough to stick with it and see where it goes.
I'll admit it was hard for me to look past the part I didn't really care for stay engaged in the story because it really shifted how I view each character.
Still looking forward to the conclusion in book 5.
It felt very square peg round hole to have their resolution made the way it is. It honestly didn't feel like it fit the overall plot, but I love the series enough to stick with it and see where it goes.
I'll admit it was hard for me to look past the part I didn't really care for stay engaged in the story because it really shifted how I view each character.
Still looking forward to the conclusion in book 5.
January 13, 2026
Full RTC - Need more time to digest how we ended up here. Chapter 27 made no sense given the past three books.
January 7, 2026
I’d like to thank the author for sending me an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This is a difficult one for me to write, because this series has been one of my favorite reads of 2025.
From the very first book, this story hooked me with its dangerous world, morally gray characters, and unpredictable twists. The pacing was addictive, the kind that keeps you up late at night because you have this feral need to know what happens next. Unfortunately, this fourth book felt much more linear. It’s not a bad book, but compared to the previous ones, it lacked the surprise and intensity that made the series so special.
I was also disappointed by how flat the supporting characters felt, especially the gods. Characters that once inspired fear and tension seemed to lose their personality and purpose here.
My biggest issue, however, was chapter 27. The way the tension between Sabine, Basten, and Rian was resolved felt abrupt and completely out of character. Even Basten, a possessive MMC, said in the next chapter that he can’t believe he let him touched her, making his actions completely contradictory. I don’t personally agree with sex being used as a solution to emotional conflict, especially for two characters who built their relationship on trust, sacrifice, and fighting against impossible odds. The fact that Basten asked Sabine to drink Rian’s blood made it even more uncomfortable for me, I see these acts as a moment of deeply physical and emotional connection, as deep as sex can be. For me, it crossed a line and erased the values and boundaries that once defined these characters.
Introducing a threesome without warning in a series that wasn’t marketed as a why choose or love triangle was disappointing and may push some readers away, especially those who don’t enjoy that trope.
I also really missed the animals in this book. They’ve always been an important and unique part of the series, and their reduced role made the story feel incomplete.
The miscommunication trope was another frustrating point. Many conflicts could have been resolved through honest conversation, using sex to solve their issues felt rushed and unrealistic.
That said, there were things I enjoyed. There were genuinely funny moments, and every Basten POV was a highlight for me.
Overall, this book wasn’t a bad read, but it did lose some of the magic that made me fall in love with the series. That’s what makes this review so hard to write 😭
This is a difficult one for me to write, because this series has been one of my favorite reads of 2025.
From the very first book, this story hooked me with its dangerous world, morally gray characters, and unpredictable twists. The pacing was addictive, the kind that keeps you up late at night because you have this feral need to know what happens next. Unfortunately, this fourth book felt much more linear. It’s not a bad book, but compared to the previous ones, it lacked the surprise and intensity that made the series so special.
I was also disappointed by how flat the supporting characters felt, especially the gods. Characters that once inspired fear and tension seemed to lose their personality and purpose here.
My biggest issue, however, was chapter 27. The way the tension between Sabine, Basten, and Rian was resolved felt abrupt and completely out of character. Even Basten, a possessive MMC, said in the next chapter that he can’t believe he let him touched her, making his actions completely contradictory. I don’t personally agree with sex being used as a solution to emotional conflict, especially for two characters who built their relationship on trust, sacrifice, and fighting against impossible odds. The fact that Basten asked Sabine to drink Rian’s blood made it even more uncomfortable for me, I see these acts as a moment of deeply physical and emotional connection, as deep as sex can be. For me, it crossed a line and erased the values and boundaries that once defined these characters.
Introducing a threesome without warning in a series that wasn’t marketed as a why choose or love triangle was disappointing and may push some readers away, especially those who don’t enjoy that trope.
I also really missed the animals in this book. They’ve always been an important and unique part of the series, and their reduced role made the story feel incomplete.
The miscommunication trope was another frustrating point. Many conflicts could have been resolved through honest conversation, using sex to solve their issues felt rushed and unrealistic.
That said, there were things I enjoyed. There were genuinely funny moments, and every Basten POV was a highlight for me.
Overall, this book wasn’t a bad read, but it did lose some of the magic that made me fall in love with the series. That’s what makes this review so hard to write 😭
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 1, 2026
3⭐️
3🌶️
This one kills me to give 3 stars, it truly does.
Thank you to Evie for an e-arc of this book.
This has been one of my favorite series and I eagerly have been awaiting book 4 here. I binged books 1-3 in 3 days back when I first read. Sabine and Basten’s relationship and feralness for one another is what truly sucked me into the story.
Let’s address the elephant in the room shall we? Chapter 27….
Listen, I’ve actually been a fan of Rian’s character from the start. And I appreciated this dynamic between these 3. Despite all the betrayals and back stabbing they all do to each other, I clung to the fact that Rian truly just wants his “brother” back in Basten. I knew he wouldn’t be this vile bad guy that was trying to be shown.
However….you really lost me with the threesome. It just didn’t make sense to me. We could have achieved the closeness of the 3 coming together a different way and still been able to achieve what was done at the end with the blood sharing. But books 1-3 have been ALL about Sabine and Basten’s devotion to each other and how Basten is definitely possessive of his woman and won’t let any man’s hands be on her. And yes, Sabine has changed. She has different needs now as a goddess, but for Basten to just be like “ok, let’s do this threesome”. It just didn’t make sense to me and I didn’t like it. On top of it, Sabine knows that Suri has a thing for Rian, so for her to do that? Bad friend!
Besides chapter 27, I really kind of disliked Sabine most of this book. Yes, she’s going through this change and is starting to remember things from her past lives but again, she was just a bad friend, wife, all of it. I’ve loved her as a FMC in books 1-3 but she took a step back for me this book.
I will continue and finish this series. We still have 3 gods/goddesses to find and I’m curious to see if we will find them by the end of book 5. Plus, we’ve left off now with this weird ending of not winning but not losing. We have a long way to go to get this all settled. But for the love of gods (no pun intended) please back away from the three way stuff! It kind of ruined the book for me. I’ll admit that I’m not a fan of reverse harem in general but when you build up a romance like these 2 and then throw in a third person? I…just didn’t get it.
3🌶️
This one kills me to give 3 stars, it truly does.
Thank you to Evie for an e-arc of this book.
This has been one of my favorite series and I eagerly have been awaiting book 4 here. I binged books 1-3 in 3 days back when I first read. Sabine and Basten’s relationship and feralness for one another is what truly sucked me into the story.
Let’s address the elephant in the room shall we? Chapter 27….
Listen, I’ve actually been a fan of Rian’s character from the start. And I appreciated this dynamic between these 3. Despite all the betrayals and back stabbing they all do to each other, I clung to the fact that Rian truly just wants his “brother” back in Basten. I knew he wouldn’t be this vile bad guy that was trying to be shown.
However….you really lost me with the threesome. It just didn’t make sense to me. We could have achieved the closeness of the 3 coming together a different way and still been able to achieve what was done at the end with the blood sharing. But books 1-3 have been ALL about Sabine and Basten’s devotion to each other and how Basten is definitely possessive of his woman and won’t let any man’s hands be on her. And yes, Sabine has changed. She has different needs now as a goddess, but for Basten to just be like “ok, let’s do this threesome”. It just didn’t make sense to me and I didn’t like it. On top of it, Sabine knows that Suri has a thing for Rian, so for her to do that? Bad friend!
Besides chapter 27, I really kind of disliked Sabine most of this book. Yes, she’s going through this change and is starting to remember things from her past lives but again, she was just a bad friend, wife, all of it. I’ve loved her as a FMC in books 1-3 but she took a step back for me this book.
I will continue and finish this series. We still have 3 gods/goddesses to find and I’m curious to see if we will find them by the end of book 5. Plus, we’ve left off now with this weird ending of not winning but not losing. We have a long way to go to get this all settled. But for the love of gods (no pun intended) please back away from the three way stuff! It kind of ruined the book for me. I’ll admit that I’m not a fan of reverse harem in general but when you build up a romance like these 2 and then throw in a third person? I…just didn’t get it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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January 10, 2026No NO NOOO!! This was so disgusting and distasteful. I don’t like threesomes, love triangles, or why-choose, and dropping one into book four cheapened what was once a phenomenal series. The sudden Sabine/Basten/Rian dynamic felt completely out of character for a story built on an exclusive, possessive bond. This felt lazy!! It undermined the emotional core that made the series powerful in the first place. I AM SO DISAPPOINTED! Zero stars.
January 2, 2026
Firstly I want to thank the author for an eARC of this book. I have enjoyed this series and was excited to continue on.
This book does pick up right from the end of book 3’s cliffhanger. Where Sabine was stabbed by her father and now has returned as a fae.
The fae gods have all been resting as in they are “hidden” under a goddkissed mortal waiting to be awakened. And now that Sabine was essentially killed she has come back as Solene.
The storyline develops very slowly revealing bits and pieces of the overall plot, and when the ending comes it does feel little disjointed. Since most of the book we are going here and there. And then it’s a big battle at the end. Certain reveals just kinda came out of nowhere at times.
Sabine and Basten are finally together after 3 books!! It is great to see them come together.
Since Sabine is fae now she has a higher sex drive and I felt like the first 100 pages were a lot of that. Book has a lot about her obstacles of now being fae.
Basten is also king now and needs to claim the throne and they are back to help bring order to the kingdom after Rian hasn’t done anything to help the people.
I think it was a fine book, but books 3 and 4 have definitely been bridging books.
Ch 27 — A content warning that should have been disclosed was that Sabine and Basten had a threesome with Rian. I felt like this chapter was not needed it even started with Sabine saying to herself that she do not intend it when she made him swear loyalty.. but it happened anyway. There was no communication between her and Basten for this entire book and after this chapter they both agreed that it fixed their problems? Weird way to resolve issues imo. I also don’t think that with the betrayal that Rian did it’s all resolved now too because she can feed from him? Yeah also idk about that. And there was heavy emphasis on that Suri was into Rian or they were already kinda together .. what happens with that? Felt like a cheap way to resolve problems that didn’t actually resolve anything.
This book does pick up right from the end of book 3’s cliffhanger. Where Sabine was stabbed by her father and now has returned as a fae.
The fae gods have all been resting as in they are “hidden” under a goddkissed mortal waiting to be awakened. And now that Sabine was essentially killed she has come back as Solene.
The storyline develops very slowly revealing bits and pieces of the overall plot, and when the ending comes it does feel little disjointed. Since most of the book we are going here and there. And then it’s a big battle at the end. Certain reveals just kinda came out of nowhere at times.
Sabine and Basten are finally together after 3 books!! It is great to see them come together.
Since Sabine is fae now she has a higher sex drive and I felt like the first 100 pages were a lot of that. Book has a lot about her obstacles of now being fae.
Basten is also king now and needs to claim the throne and they are back to help bring order to the kingdom after Rian hasn’t done anything to help the people.
I think it was a fine book, but books 3 and 4 have definitely been bridging books.
Ch 27 — A content warning that should have been disclosed was that Sabine and Basten had a threesome with Rian. I felt like this chapter was not needed it even started with Sabine saying to herself that she do not intend it when she made him swear loyalty.. but it happened anyway. There was no communication between her and Basten for this entire book and after this chapter they both agreed that it fixed their problems? Weird way to resolve issues imo. I also don’t think that with the betrayal that Rian did it’s all resolved now too because she can feed from him? Yeah also idk about that. And there was heavy emphasis on that Suri was into Rian or they were already kinda together .. what happens with that? Felt like a cheap way to resolve problems that didn’t actually resolve anything.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 13, 2026
Beware. Yes spoilers but you need to know them if you care about Sabine and Basten.
A threesome with Rian in book four of five? Are you kidding me?
I read the note from the author at the end of the book first, about chapter 27, and read it because I had a feeling that this very chapter would make this series a DNF in book four of five. And yep, I was right. Wth? Why tarnish the love of Basten and Sabine this way? WTF!
And the author mocks readers who feel betrayed? Well up on the unreadable authors list she goes because I can never trust her writing again.
At least I could return this book. But book one to three can only go to the recycling bin and this hurts. I loved the series so far but this cheap threesome? After Sabine and Basten did everything to get away from Rian? If she needs extra blood there are animals to feed on! What a mess.
A threesome with Rian in book four of five? Are you kidding me?
I read the note from the author at the end of the book first, about chapter 27, and read it because I had a feeling that this very chapter would make this series a DNF in book four of five. And yep, I was right. Wth? Why tarnish the love of Basten and Sabine this way? WTF!
And the author mocks readers who feel betrayed? Well up on the unreadable authors list she goes because I can never trust her writing again.
At least I could return this book. But book one to three can only go to the recycling bin and this hurts. I loved the series so far but this cheap threesome? After Sabine and Basten did everything to get away from Rian? If she needs extra blood there are animals to feed on! What a mess.
January 14, 2026
Very upset with this book... the first 3 books were amazing, I'm not sure what happened with the author, but it didn't even feel like these were the same characters. I'm very disappointed.
January 9, 2026
DNF 80%
I just don’t care to hear how this ends
I just don’t care to hear how this ends
January 6, 2026
C’était tout simplement génial.
L’action, le rythme, les plot twist, la romance. La manière dont la relation entre Sabine et Basten évolue. Je suis ravie de ce que l’autrice a créé avec cette saga. Une vraie bonne romantaisie. Excellent
L’action, le rythme, les plot twist, la romance. La manière dont la relation entre Sabine et Basten évolue. Je suis ravie de ce que l’autrice a créé avec cette saga. Une vraie bonne romantaisie. Excellent
Review of advance copy received from Author
As many others have said... I can't believe I'm writing this.
I have loved this series. Shouted about it from the rooftops. But... a threesome between Sabine, Basten and Rian? It makes no sense and absolutely ruins the journey between Sabine and Basten effectively rendering it pointless. I understand the power dynamics at play, the warring emotions. But there are so many other ways it could have been resolved.
I have loved this series. Shouted about it from the rooftops. But... a threesome between Sabine, Basten and Rian? It makes no sense and absolutely ruins the journey between Sabine and Basten effectively rendering it pointless. I understand the power dynamics at play, the warring emotions. But there are so many other ways it could have been resolved.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love this series, book 4 did not disappoint.
Is this book full of tropes? yes
Is it some times predictable? yes
will you still love it? absolutely
will I continue to recommend this series? and this Author? Together. Always.
At 50% I was scared to finish. Evie is as unpredictable as she is predictable. I finished the last 50% in a matter of hours, could not put it down. I want more. I appreciate the characters in this series, they are relatable (as far as having god kissed powers as i can relate of course) but more importantly they are consistent. all of them. And I appreciate this whole heartedly.
I will stock this series in my shop always.
Thank you for the advance Copy to read & review - best christmas gift
Is this book full of tropes? yes
Is it some times predictable? yes
will you still love it? absolutely
will I continue to recommend this series? and this Author? Together. Always.
At 50% I was scared to finish. Evie is as unpredictable as she is predictable. I finished the last 50% in a matter of hours, could not put it down. I want more. I appreciate the characters in this series, they are relatable (as far as having god kissed powers as i can relate of course) but more importantly they are consistent. all of them. And I appreciate this whole heartedly.
I will stock this series in my shop always.
Thank you for the advance Copy to read & review - best christmas gift
December 28, 2025
✨Cold Stars Midnight Glow✨
Gosh, how I love being back in a book written by Evie. She never fails to elicit every emotion out of my heart and body. This series is SO HOT, brutally painful, and achingly beautiful. The fight for this forbidden love between Basten and Sabine has been no easy feat by ANY means, but it makes our investment that much deeper and their love that much memorable and true.
As this is the 4th book out of 5 in Evie’s Godkissed Bride series, I will keep it as spoiler free as possible. What I will say up front is THIS SERIES NEEDS TO BE READ BY YOU. The way she navigates tropes such as hidden identities, memory loss, and forbidden love are unique, thoughtful, and intentional. Four books in and to still be utterly entertained and enthralled? To keep the yearning, angst, tension, and spice STILL so fueled and powerful? To continue to intrigue us through deeper character growth and uncertainties? That’s a testament to truly incredible writing.
We follow a dual POV with Basten and Sabine. They each have grown so much and this installment is a HUGE corner turned in their arcs. We see enemies rise to honorability, true character of allis unveiled, and villain arcs arising. SO MUCH is revealed. Enemies and allis are twisting and turning, leaving questions on who to trust. We get scenes and moments we’ve been DYING FOR. The spice is FACE MELTING. So many truths have been a lie! And I find myself with theories, excitement, eagerness, and anticipation as Evie leads us into the finale. This is one of the series that I return to regularly and love to reread (though it hurts). Basten and Sabine will always be a favorite couple of mine; their love is truly one to experience and remember.
Tropes you may find in CSMG are forced proximity, FMC stepping into her villain era, medium high spice (, found family, banter, grumpy x sunshine, high stakes, fae x humans, coming into power, more furry animals, deeper relationship development, plot twists, hidden identities, and an exciting end!
Evie, it’s such an honor to be on your hype team and arc read for you. I love this series.
Gosh, how I love being back in a book written by Evie. She never fails to elicit every emotion out of my heart and body. This series is SO HOT, brutally painful, and achingly beautiful. The fight for this forbidden love between Basten and Sabine has been no easy feat by ANY means, but it makes our investment that much deeper and their love that much memorable and true.
As this is the 4th book out of 5 in Evie’s Godkissed Bride series, I will keep it as spoiler free as possible. What I will say up front is THIS SERIES NEEDS TO BE READ BY YOU. The way she navigates tropes such as hidden identities, memory loss, and forbidden love are unique, thoughtful, and intentional. Four books in and to still be utterly entertained and enthralled? To keep the yearning, angst, tension, and spice STILL so fueled and powerful? To continue to intrigue us through deeper character growth and uncertainties? That’s a testament to truly incredible writing.
We follow a dual POV with Basten and Sabine. They each have grown so much and this installment is a HUGE corner turned in their arcs. We see enemies rise to honorability, true character of allis unveiled, and villain arcs arising. SO MUCH is revealed. Enemies and allis are twisting and turning, leaving questions on who to trust. We get scenes and moments we’ve been DYING FOR. The spice is FACE MELTING. So many truths have been a lie! And I find myself with theories, excitement, eagerness, and anticipation as Evie leads us into the finale. This is one of the series that I return to regularly and love to reread (though it hurts). Basten and Sabine will always be a favorite couple of mine; their love is truly one to experience and remember.
Tropes you may find in CSMG are forced proximity, FMC stepping into her villain era, medium high spice (, found family, banter, grumpy x sunshine, high stakes, fae x humans, coming into power, more furry animals, deeper relationship development, plot twists, hidden identities, and an exciting end!
Evie, it’s such an honor to be on your hype team and arc read for you. I love this series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
**ARC REVIEW**
Thank you Evie for the ARC!
Godkissed bride has to be one of my favourite - most under-rated- series of 2025!
“Sometimes, we have to say fuck it and jump, not knowing what’s on the other side.”
Cold Stars MidNight Glow picks up right where Steel Heart Iron Claw finished off, in the depths of Volkany with the 6 awoken gods and Sabine who has just been stabbed through the heart.
This book had me turning pages like a mad man. I was completely and utterly captivated by the characters, the plot and trying to anticipate where we were being lead. Of course... I couldn't guess! and you know what - I am not unhappy about that! 🤣
I loved that there was so much foreshadowing in all 3 previous books that lead up to that lucrative "chapter 27"!
This series and this book had me smiling, kicking my feet, reading between fingers, ripping at my hair, toes curling and tears!
The essence of an incredible book, is when an author can take you on a journey, have you so enthralled that you just keep wanting to turn the next page and get your feelings all messed up over fictional characters and events on a page. This book and series as a whole... has it all! Hands down one of the best reads of the year! I cannot wait to see how this story ends.
“You and me—we’re the endgame.
Thank you again.
Solid 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ read with one of the best Throne scenes I have ever read! Loved every single second!
Thank you Evie for the ARC!
Godkissed bride has to be one of my favourite - most under-rated- series of 2025!
“Sometimes, we have to say fuck it and jump, not knowing what’s on the other side.”
Cold Stars MidNight Glow picks up right where Steel Heart Iron Claw finished off, in the depths of Volkany with the 6 awoken gods and Sabine who has just been stabbed through the heart.
This book had me turning pages like a mad man. I was completely and utterly captivated by the characters, the plot and trying to anticipate where we were being lead. Of course... I couldn't guess! and you know what - I am not unhappy about that! 🤣
I loved that there was so much foreshadowing in all 3 previous books that lead up to that lucrative "chapter 27"!
This series and this book had me smiling, kicking my feet, reading between fingers, ripping at my hair, toes curling and tears!
The essence of an incredible book, is when an author can take you on a journey, have you so enthralled that you just keep wanting to turn the next page and get your feelings all messed up over fictional characters and events on a page. This book and series as a whole... has it all! Hands down one of the best reads of the year! I cannot wait to see how this story ends.
“You and me—we’re the endgame.
Thank you again.
Solid 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ read with one of the best Throne scenes I have ever read! Loved every single second!
January 14, 2026
Probably my least favorite book in this series so far. For one, it was rather boring for about 80%. Two, Sabine and Basten as characters changed a bit too much to make sense. Sabine was especially frustrating to read. Three, the deities or fey or whatever they are were pretty ridiculous. And obvious. Four, the spice was dull and in one scene—the scene everyone is mentioning as incredibly odd for who Basten is—was rather oddly written and poorly described. I have no issue with threesomes in books but I really don’t see why this one was necessary, especially by its end. It was explained as a power play but it really didn’t make sense as that. Instead it felt like Marceau wanted it to happen so she shoe-horned in the explanation for why it had to happen after. And frankly, it could have been better. Like, if you’re going to add such a scene, then go for it.
For the most part, I was just bored. With the book, the spice, the character dynamics, and the plot. I started skimming to wrap the book up. I will probably read the last book. Maybe. I don’t want to make it through three books to not finish the series, but the plot is just going in directions that seem weird for where the series began.
For the most part, I was just bored. With the book, the spice, the character dynamics, and the plot. I started skimming to wrap the book up. I will probably read the last book. Maybe. I don’t want to make it through three books to not finish the series, but the plot is just going in directions that seem weird for where the series began.
January 11, 2026
2.5 ⭐️
I’m a little disappointed in this one. I really enjoyed the first 3 books but I honestly felt like nothing happened. I was bored throughout most of it.
I did find the “threesome” if you could even call it that, a little odd. Seemed totally out of character for both the MMC and FMC. I have no issues with love triangles or RH but it has to make sense and this kinda didn’t.
I know there’s only one book left but this book didn’t really give me the desire or need to find out what happens.
I’m a little disappointed in this one. I really enjoyed the first 3 books but I honestly felt like nothing happened. I was bored throughout most of it.
I did find the “threesome” if you could even call it that, a little odd. Seemed totally out of character for both the MMC and FMC. I have no issues with love triangles or RH but it has to make sense and this kinda didn’t.
I know there’s only one book left but this book didn’t really give me the desire or need to find out what happens.
December 28, 2025
Thank you so much for the ARC read. This installment earns four stars, consistent with the previous books in the series. That said, as others have mentioned, I was disappointed with the direction their relationship took, particularly the introduction of a second sexual partner. The lack of communication felt inconsistent with both their established character development and the foundation of their relationship. It seemed out of character for Wolf/Basten to allow this, and it didn’t align well with what we’ve come to know and love about their bond and love story.
Despite this, I still found much to enjoy. The banter, humor, and lighthearted conversations—especially between Rian and Wolf, as well as Folke and Wolf—were highlights for me and brought warmth and charm to the story. I’m also hopeful that Wolf’s arm pain is intentional foreshadowing and that it may lead to him receiving wings or gaining immortal status, paving the way for a true happily ever after.
Despite this, I still found much to enjoy. The banter, humor, and lighthearted conversations—especially between Rian and Wolf, as well as Folke and Wolf—were highlights for me and brought warmth and charm to the story. I’m also hopeful that Wolf’s arm pain is intentional foreshadowing and that it may lead to him receiving wings or gaining immortal status, paving the way for a true happily ever after.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 15, 2026
I loved this series, however, the most recent installment wasn't for me.
The shift in antagonists felt more fractured than before and it didn't capture me in the same way as the prior installments.
Not sure I will continue on with the series.
The shift in antagonists felt more fractured than before and it didn't capture me in the same way as the prior installments.
Not sure I will continue on with the series.
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