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Trial of Curses and Fae: A Reverse Harem Romantasy
The fae wanted my life. Their kings want something far worse.
Offered as a human sacrifice, I expected to die. I didn’t expect to be named their chosen guide… forced to lead four cursed kings through a labyrinth that devours all who enter.
But I have no choice.
The fae kings have claimed me, and they refuse to let me go. Not when my life is their only chance at regaining the power stripped from them. Not when every step I take binds us closer together.
King Sylvian of the Earth Fae protects me with quiet devotion.
King Oberon of the Fire Fae burns with a fury that pulls me closer, instead of driving me away.
King Ashton of the Wind Fae tempts me with wicked smiles and dangerous touches.
King Cassius of the Water Fae hides every thought behind cold, calculating eyes, and knows exactly how to undo me.
If I reach the end of the labyrinth, I’ll escape the fae.
If I fail, I may be trapped forever.
Either way, my heart may not survive four powerful kings who no longer see me as a sacrifice, but as something they crave far more than their lost power.
TRIAL OF CURSES AND FAE is a reverse harem romantasy with possessive dark fae princes, adventure, a little romance, and a whole lot of heat.
Offered as a human sacrifice, I expected to die. I didn’t expect to be named their chosen guide… forced to lead four cursed kings through a labyrinth that devours all who enter.
But I have no choice.
The fae kings have claimed me, and they refuse to let me go. Not when my life is their only chance at regaining the power stripped from them. Not when every step I take binds us closer together.
King Sylvian of the Earth Fae protects me with quiet devotion.
King Oberon of the Fire Fae burns with a fury that pulls me closer, instead of driving me away.
King Ashton of the Wind Fae tempts me with wicked smiles and dangerous touches.
King Cassius of the Water Fae hides every thought behind cold, calculating eyes, and knows exactly how to undo me.
If I reach the end of the labyrinth, I’ll escape the fae.
If I fail, I may be trapped forever.
Either way, my heart may not survive four powerful kings who no longer see me as a sacrifice, but as something they crave far more than their lost power.
TRIAL OF CURSES AND FAE is a reverse harem romantasy with possessive dark fae princes, adventure, a little romance, and a whole lot of heat.
- GenresFaeParanormal
234 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 6, 2026
About the author
Lacey Carter Andersen
332 books994 followersLacey Carter Andersen loves reading, writing, and drinking excessive amounts of coffee. She spends her days taking care of her husband, three kids, and three cats. But at night, everything changes! Her imagination runs wild with strong-willed characters, unique worlds, and exciting plots that she enthusiastically puts into stories.
Lacey has dozens of tales: science fiction romances, paranormal romances, short romances, reverse harem romances, and more. So, please feel free to dive into any of her worlds; she loves to have the company!
And you're welcome to reach out to her; she really enjoys hearing from her readers.
You can find her at:
Email: laceycarterandersen@gmail.com
Mailing List: www.eepurl.com/cVwDNP
Website: https://laceycarterandersen.net/
Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/Lacey-Carter-Anderse...
Lacey has dozens of tales: science fiction romances, paranormal romances, short romances, reverse harem romances, and more. So, please feel free to dive into any of her worlds; she loves to have the company!
And you're welcome to reach out to her; she really enjoys hearing from her readers.
You can find her at:
Email: laceycarterandersen@gmail.com
Mailing List: www.eepurl.com/cVwDNP
Website: https://laceycarterandersen.net/
Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/Lacey-Carter-Anderse...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 172 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a great start to the series, good descriptive writing that built the world and characters.
Good strong characters looking forward to see how they all develop.
Good storyline so far looking forward to the next book to see where it will all lead.
Good strong characters looking forward to see how they all develop.
Good storyline so far looking forward to the next book to see where it will all lead.
March 11, 2026
Trial of Curses and Fae is the first book in Lacey’s new romantasy reverse harem series, Into the Labyrinth. After reading the synopsis, I wasn’t sure I’d like the story. However, I’ve read a few other series by the author and really enjoyed them, so I decided to take a chance.
This book is much darker than what I’m used to from Lacey. Usually she eases you into the darker aspects of the story, but in this one it starts right from the first sentence.
The story revolves around Alette, a twenty-three-year-old who was orphaned as a child and raised by her abusive grandparents on her father’s farm in the country. She’s lived a very sheltered life and is pretty clueless when it comes to the ways of the world. On a trip into the village, she’s taken as a sacrifice to the fae. From there, the story unfolds as she’s deemed the chosen one by the goddess and tasked with helping the four fae kings bring magic back to the realm.
She’s thrown into a world she doesn’t understand, risking her life for beings she hates—though she also feels something she doesn’t quite understand for the kings.
This is a slow burn, and I mean slow, with a curse, a labyrinth, challenges, secrets, and monsters. That being said, I’m still not sure how I feel about the story or the characters. While both the plot and the characters have potential, at this point I don’t really feel a connection to them. If anything, I mostly felt irritated by how, for lack of a better word, clueless Alette is when it comes to her feelings and the opposite sex—and how clueless the fae kings are when it comes to humans.
Honestly, if it weren’t for that cliffhanger, I don’t know if I’d continue with the series.
With all that being said, this is just my opinion. Definitely read it for yourself and make up your own mind.
This book is much darker than what I’m used to from Lacey. Usually she eases you into the darker aspects of the story, but in this one it starts right from the first sentence.
The story revolves around Alette, a twenty-three-year-old who was orphaned as a child and raised by her abusive grandparents on her father’s farm in the country. She’s lived a very sheltered life and is pretty clueless when it comes to the ways of the world. On a trip into the village, she’s taken as a sacrifice to the fae. From there, the story unfolds as she’s deemed the chosen one by the goddess and tasked with helping the four fae kings bring magic back to the realm.
She’s thrown into a world she doesn’t understand, risking her life for beings she hates—though she also feels something she doesn’t quite understand for the kings.
This is a slow burn, and I mean slow, with a curse, a labyrinth, challenges, secrets, and monsters. That being said, I’m still not sure how I feel about the story or the characters. While both the plot and the characters have potential, at this point I don’t really feel a connection to them. If anything, I mostly felt irritated by how, for lack of a better word, clueless Alette is when it comes to her feelings and the opposite sex—and how clueless the fae kings are when it comes to humans.
Honestly, if it weren’t for that cliffhanger, I don’t know if I’d continue with the series.
With all that being said, this is just my opinion. Definitely read it for yourself and make up your own mind.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This story follows the FMC Alette who comes from an abusive home only to taken away to the fae world when she attempts to go to the market for the day. Taken as a sacrifice she is then met by a Goddess and set on a new path to help four attractive fae men. Sylvian, Oberon, Ashton and Cassius. Overall I did enjoy the book. This is one of my favorite authors and her overall writing did not disappoint. However don't take the trigger warning lightly. The first two chapters can be a bit much for some. As for my full critique please read below.
Quality of writing 4.5/5 - The writing was very well done.
Plot Development 3/5 - Unfortunately, it felt like the book was almost incomplete. It ended on a climax with no resolution. Right now it feels like I only read half of the book. I need the next book.. now...
Characters 5/5 - The characters were amazing. Each had their own set of struggles that gave them well defined and interesting. Alette gave off the personality of someone who was tired of the flight response and was ready to finally fight after everything she had been through. I loved the fact I could even identify the moment of change from flight to fight when she finally said in her brain enough is enough.
Tension 4/5 - Very well written. I could see how for some it could come off as a bit much but for me its near perfect.
Romance /5 - I have to leave this blank for now. I honestly don't have enough information to adequately state the "romance" it feels like the romance just started right when the book ended.
Spice Level - 2/5 I see this being a very high number in the future books and it almost happened in this book but right now there is a few semi-descriptive scenes but its more talk of the act then getting busy with it. That being said this book had some of the most creative and hilarious terminology for manhood. My favorite being "my staff of life"
Ease of Reading 5/5 - very easy to read and follow
World Building 1/5 - I am not sure if its because I love this author and I'm being too harsh or not but it felt like there was a big lack of world building. I would have love more description of the environments and also for a possible timeline of clothing style. A lot was left up to the imagination and normally i don't mind but it was very hard to fully escape at times because of the lack of scene description. Particularly when first entering the fae realm.
Ending 1/5 - I will not spoil it but I literally screamed at my kindle and almost threw it. I was very upset by this cliff hanger.
Final Total Stars 4/5 Overall I really did like the book enough that my major complaint is I wish there was more.
Would I recommend? Yes but not until the next book comes out so they can be read together.
Quality of writing 4.5/5 - The writing was very well done.
Plot Development 3/5 - Unfortunately, it felt like the book was almost incomplete. It ended on a climax with no resolution. Right now it feels like I only read half of the book. I need the next book.. now...
Characters 5/5 - The characters were amazing. Each had their own set of struggles that gave them well defined and interesting. Alette gave off the personality of someone who was tired of the flight response and was ready to finally fight after everything she had been through. I loved the fact I could even identify the moment of change from flight to fight when she finally said in her brain enough is enough.
Tension 4/5 - Very well written. I could see how for some it could come off as a bit much but for me its near perfect.
Romance /5 - I have to leave this blank for now. I honestly don't have enough information to adequately state the "romance" it feels like the romance just started right when the book ended.
Spice Level - 2/5 I see this being a very high number in the future books and it almost happened in this book but right now there is a few semi-descriptive scenes but its more talk of the act then getting busy with it. That being said this book had some of the most creative and hilarious terminology for manhood. My favorite being "my staff of life"
Ease of Reading 5/5 - very easy to read and follow
World Building 1/5 - I am not sure if its because I love this author and I'm being too harsh or not but it felt like there was a big lack of world building. I would have love more description of the environments and also for a possible timeline of clothing style. A lot was left up to the imagination and normally i don't mind but it was very hard to fully escape at times because of the lack of scene description. Particularly when first entering the fae realm.
Ending 1/5 - I will not spoil it but I literally screamed at my kindle and almost threw it. I was very upset by this cliff hanger.
Final Total Stars 4/5 Overall I really did like the book enough that my major complaint is I wish there was more.
Would I recommend? Yes but not until the next book comes out so they can be read together.
March 31, 2026
‼️‼️Sensitive Readers: Heed Trigger Warnings ‼️‼️
Alette- So in the beginning of the book, we’re introduced to Alette by revisiting her childhood traumas which transitions into her adulthood wherein she is still being pushed around and betrayed by those she should be able to trust. We also meet the townsfolk, and at the same time are privy to a selection of sorts in which the leader of the town chooses a “sacrifice” for the Fae. During this event, we also learn that the humans are not only wary of the Fae but are taught to believe that they are a dangerous people. When Alette is chosen, she is absolutely terrified and rightfully so, especially when she’s left chained to the sacrificial altar. What could possibly go wrong? It’s not like every horror tale ever told started out in the misty eerie gloomy woods or anything🤷♀️
King Sylvian- When he’s introduced to the human, it’s at the altar but not how he expected. He’s become so used to coming upon remains that when there’s a living one, he’s shocked. Not only that, but this human absolutely DESPISES Fae…why? In his mind, Fae are revered and worshipped. To this King, humans should be grateful and falling over themselves to be chosen by Fae-kind or acknowledged by them even. Oh and this quest for the Fae? She should be dripping with appreciation at the chance to help in this dangerous and possibly fatal expedition so why is she expressing so much fear and animosity? 🤣🤔
King Cassius- The fist of the Kings to try and see the situation from her POV, he’s perplexed by her unwillingness but shows “humanity” by trying to coax her to stay of her own free will (he’s also probably my second favorite😉).
King Oberon- Probably the most ruthless of the Kings, he sees the human as nothing more than a sacrifice and doesn’t believe she should be granted any favors.
King Ashton-The flirt. He also tries to understand this human in the Fae world, this human that supposedly is the key to restoring Fae gifts.
Each King treats her in their own way, and maybe even starts to soften towards her, but what will the Labyrinth bring? Will she really restore their gifts? Will she become something MORE than a sacrifice? Will a jealous woman get in the way and potentially ruin everything? 🧚😉
Alette- So in the beginning of the book, we’re introduced to Alette by revisiting her childhood traumas which transitions into her adulthood wherein she is still being pushed around and betrayed by those she should be able to trust. We also meet the townsfolk, and at the same time are privy to a selection of sorts in which the leader of the town chooses a “sacrifice” for the Fae. During this event, we also learn that the humans are not only wary of the Fae but are taught to believe that they are a dangerous people. When Alette is chosen, she is absolutely terrified and rightfully so, especially when she’s left chained to the sacrificial altar. What could possibly go wrong? It’s not like every horror tale ever told started out in the misty eerie gloomy woods or anything🤷♀️
King Sylvian- When he’s introduced to the human, it’s at the altar but not how he expected. He’s become so used to coming upon remains that when there’s a living one, he’s shocked. Not only that, but this human absolutely DESPISES Fae…why? In his mind, Fae are revered and worshipped. To this King, humans should be grateful and falling over themselves to be chosen by Fae-kind or acknowledged by them even. Oh and this quest for the Fae? She should be dripping with appreciation at the chance to help in this dangerous and possibly fatal expedition so why is she expressing so much fear and animosity? 🤣🤔
King Cassius- The fist of the Kings to try and see the situation from her POV, he’s perplexed by her unwillingness but shows “humanity” by trying to coax her to stay of her own free will (he’s also probably my second favorite😉).
King Oberon- Probably the most ruthless of the Kings, he sees the human as nothing more than a sacrifice and doesn’t believe she should be granted any favors.
King Ashton-The flirt. He also tries to understand this human in the Fae world, this human that supposedly is the key to restoring Fae gifts.
Each King treats her in their own way, and maybe even starts to soften towards her, but what will the Labyrinth bring? Will she really restore their gifts? Will she become something MORE than a sacrifice? Will a jealous woman get in the way and potentially ruin everything? 🧚😉
March 12, 2026
So usually I’m not a fan of the overtly ignorant or naive characters, however I also have a soft spot for those who were/are abused or mistreated by those who should have loved and cared for them. Alette has that in bounds. Knowing what she has suffered in her life, that naivety probably saved her more than a few times. If not from pain, then at least from the mental strain and anxiety. Especially with what her despicable grandparents had planned for her in the beginning of the book. The way she describes her father, it’s very clear that he was likely determined to not be his own father. And why he didn’t want them in their lives. I was relived when we didn’t have to see her suffer there for very long. However I am slightly alarmed at how hard pressed she is to go back there. I do understand it, to an extent. But I also hope if she does go back, the kings follow her and witness how her grandparents treat her. THAT, I would live for.
The kings are well and truly unique to their characters. None of them have personalities that would imply they get along well, and they regularly butt heads and bicker. Though it seems to be from a place of reluctant kinship instead of genuine dislike. They are almost like hybrids of their people. They have a hard time letting go of the history between their kingdoms, but they also don’t truly feel the hate that litters their history. Or maybe they’ve just truly learned a lesson from the goddess’ punishment. They all have their strengths and flaws, but I do love something about each one of them though, and can’t wait to see what they truly start to bring to the dynamic when they start to cooperate better.
The cliffhanger were left on, left me floored. I absolutely need that scenario to continue, once the danger itself is gone. I desperately want Alette to learn something other than pain and sorrow. I don’t even need to know the full story of her mother, to know that it was heartbreaking and traumatic. I truly hope these kings end up being the best thing to happen. To her, and cant wait to see how this story unfolds.
The kings are well and truly unique to their characters. None of them have personalities that would imply they get along well, and they regularly butt heads and bicker. Though it seems to be from a place of reluctant kinship instead of genuine dislike. They are almost like hybrids of their people. They have a hard time letting go of the history between their kingdoms, but they also don’t truly feel the hate that litters their history. Or maybe they’ve just truly learned a lesson from the goddess’ punishment. They all have their strengths and flaws, but I do love something about each one of them though, and can’t wait to see what they truly start to bring to the dynamic when they start to cooperate better.
The cliffhanger were left on, left me floored. I absolutely need that scenario to continue, once the danger itself is gone. I desperately want Alette to learn something other than pain and sorrow. I don’t even need to know the full story of her mother, to know that it was heartbreaking and traumatic. I truly hope these kings end up being the best thing to happen. To her, and cant wait to see how this story unfolds.
March 27, 2026
Good
WARNING! Cliffhanger! Wow, that was abrupt! It leaves us on a pretty traumatic cliffhanger, rating a 5/5 on my scale, so consider yourself warned!
Alette’s brutal past might be the only reason that she survived being sacrificed to the fae goddess, but now the kings of the fae believe that she is the one chosen to help them regain their powers back.
Alette doesn’t want to be the chosen one, but it seems like it might just be the only way she can go home. That it involves going with the kings through a dangerous labyrinth isn’t something she is particularly happy about…
The ending to this book is *abrupt*, in an “I was engrossed in the story, and then it just stopped” way; and I’m not talking about a soft cliffhanger ending, nope this was a full scale, let’s keep them wanting more cliffhanger!
That being said, this was an engrossing book. It read like a much longer book, with some pretty slow pacing that manages to convey well the way our heroine feels, and the interminable nature of the journey they make.
Alette is definitely a master of denial, and I really want to understand what happened in her past, that caused her grudge against the fae.
Each of the fae kings are men used to the privilege offered by their lifestyle, but also formed by a past that wasn’t quite as privileged as it might seem. They all have secrets, although we only catch glimpses in this book, I hope we start to get more information about those too.
As first installments in a longer story go, this one does its job of dragging you in and making you want more. There is actually a surprising amount of action for a book with an overall slower pace (it’s honestly not a bad thing), but I did agree with Alette that the kings were acting more like children at times!
I will anxiously await the next book in the series, and in the meantime, I highly recommend this one to those who love a darker themed RH romantasy!
WARNING! Cliffhanger! Wow, that was abrupt! It leaves us on a pretty traumatic cliffhanger, rating a 5/5 on my scale, so consider yourself warned!
Alette’s brutal past might be the only reason that she survived being sacrificed to the fae goddess, but now the kings of the fae believe that she is the one chosen to help them regain their powers back.
Alette doesn’t want to be the chosen one, but it seems like it might just be the only way she can go home. That it involves going with the kings through a dangerous labyrinth isn’t something she is particularly happy about…
The ending to this book is *abrupt*, in an “I was engrossed in the story, and then it just stopped” way; and I’m not talking about a soft cliffhanger ending, nope this was a full scale, let’s keep them wanting more cliffhanger!
That being said, this was an engrossing book. It read like a much longer book, with some pretty slow pacing that manages to convey well the way our heroine feels, and the interminable nature of the journey they make.
Alette is definitely a master of denial, and I really want to understand what happened in her past, that caused her grudge against the fae.
Each of the fae kings are men used to the privilege offered by their lifestyle, but also formed by a past that wasn’t quite as privileged as it might seem. They all have secrets, although we only catch glimpses in this book, I hope we start to get more information about those too.
As first installments in a longer story go, this one does its job of dragging you in and making you want more. There is actually a surprising amount of action for a book with an overall slower pace (it’s honestly not a bad thing), but I did agree with Alette that the kings were acting more like children at times!
I will anxiously await the next book in the series, and in the meantime, I highly recommend this one to those who love a darker themed RH romantasy!
March 12, 2026
Trial of Curses and Fae swept me into its deadly labyrinth and refused to let go. From the opening pages, the stakes are razor sharp, and the tension never loosens its grip. This is romantasy done right — dangerous, emotional, and utterly addictive.
Alette is the kind of heroine I immediately connected with. She isn’t fearless — she’s determined. Thrown into a brutal labyrinth bound by curses and ancient magic, she doesn’t rely on luck or fate to save her. She thinks, adapts, and fights. Her strength feels earned, not handed to her, which made every victory that much more satisfying. Watching her grow more confident in her power while still carrying vulnerability made her feel incredibly real.
And then there are the fae kings.
King Sylvian brings a steady, grounding presence — thoughtful and measured, yet clearly capable of devastating force when pushed. King Oberon is intensity incarnate; every scene with him crackles with heat and barely restrained emotion. King Ashton adds a sharp edge of wit and unpredictability that keeps both Alette and the reader guessing. And King Cassius? Quiet, calculating, and layered in mystery — he had me analyzing every glance and every word.
What I loved most is how distinct each king feels. Their dynamics with Alette are different, nuanced, and charged with tension in their own ways. Nothing feels repetitive or shallow. The emotional pull builds alongside the danger of the labyrinth, making the romance and the survival stakes intertwine beautifully.
The labyrinth itself is vivid and almost alive — twisting, treacherous, and steeped in ancient magic. Every trial feels purposeful, pushing Alette closer to understanding not just the curse, but herself.
This book delivers high-stakes fantasy, layered romantic tension, and a heroine worth rooting for from beginning to end. I closed it already craving the next installment.
Alette is the kind of heroine I immediately connected with. She isn’t fearless — she’s determined. Thrown into a brutal labyrinth bound by curses and ancient magic, she doesn’t rely on luck or fate to save her. She thinks, adapts, and fights. Her strength feels earned, not handed to her, which made every victory that much more satisfying. Watching her grow more confident in her power while still carrying vulnerability made her feel incredibly real.
And then there are the fae kings.
King Sylvian brings a steady, grounding presence — thoughtful and measured, yet clearly capable of devastating force when pushed. King Oberon is intensity incarnate; every scene with him crackles with heat and barely restrained emotion. King Ashton adds a sharp edge of wit and unpredictability that keeps both Alette and the reader guessing. And King Cassius? Quiet, calculating, and layered in mystery — he had me analyzing every glance and every word.
What I loved most is how distinct each king feels. Their dynamics with Alette are different, nuanced, and charged with tension in their own ways. Nothing feels repetitive or shallow. The emotional pull builds alongside the danger of the labyrinth, making the romance and the survival stakes intertwine beautifully.
The labyrinth itself is vivid and almost alive — twisting, treacherous, and steeped in ancient magic. Every trial feels purposeful, pushing Alette closer to understanding not just the curse, but herself.
This book delivers high-stakes fantasy, layered romantic tension, and a heroine worth rooting for from beginning to end. I closed it already craving the next installment.
March 8, 2026
Oh, what an amazing story and cliffhanger! Alette's not my normal cup of tea for a heroine, seeming both naive for her 23 years and yet having experienced so much pain. When she manages to stumble into an adventure while on a trip to her small village to do business and trade for necessary supplies for her household, I was excited to see how fate works to both protect her from her grandparents and to throw her smack into another dangerous situation with four fae kings and one crazy goddess. Her lack of refinement and understanding of basic social norms leads to several humorous moments, especially when dealing with the swaggering fae kings and plotting fae nobles. Usually a main female character in a reverse harem needs some kind of physical, moral, or intellectual strength. Alette at first does not seem to possess any of those qualities. As she is fond of reminding the reader, she simply knows how to hang on and survive. The fae kings slowly work their way into her good graces, and she agrees to help them beat the labyrinth to win back their people's magic. The goddess Varuna cursed all the fae when blood was spilled at one of her holy festivals. She sees something in Alette that puts her on the path to helping the fae people, even though Alette would have preferred to remain in her human world and deal with the devils she knows. The four kings--each representing the elemental magic of fire (Oberon), wind (Ashton), water (Cassius), and earth (Sylvian)--start regaining their magic around Alette and know she is the key to winning back their people's magic permanently. The dangerous labyrinth truly begins the bonding process for the fae kings and their "little human," and I cannot wait to see what happens next in the story!
April 8, 2026
“But it’ll help the fae.” I stare at her dumbly. “I don’t want to help the fae.” I laugh, an involuntary reaction to the absurdity of it all, but her expression remains serious. She doesn’t share in my humor, her frown deepening as though she’s staring at the embodiment of her worst nightmare. “But,” I stretch my arms out, indicating my perfect form, “we’re like gods to you people.” Her brow rises, skepticism etched across her features. “Uh, not really. You’re more like… the monsters who live under our beds, and I don’t want to spend any more time with those monsters than I have to. So, just indicate the way home, and I’ll leave… so you can find another chosen one.”
When Alette is sent to town by her grandparents she looks forward to it. It means getting away from being punished for doing what her grandfather deems wrong. Alettes life has been so different since her father passed away and she was forced to live with them.
But what she wasn't expecting when she got to town was to be made a sacrifice for the fae or to have a goddess decide she was the chosen one and that she was the only person who could help the fae get their powers back.
She also wasn't expecting the four fae kings she would have to go into the labyrinth with or expecting them to actually be nice and funny and not the monsters she always thought fae to be.
I honestly love Lacey's style of writing she draws you in from the first chapter and makes you not want to put the book down. I can't wait for the next book in the series cause it wasn't a nice cliff she left the book on I kept trying to turn the page for more.
When Alette is sent to town by her grandparents she looks forward to it. It means getting away from being punished for doing what her grandfather deems wrong. Alettes life has been so different since her father passed away and she was forced to live with them.
But what she wasn't expecting when she got to town was to be made a sacrifice for the fae or to have a goddess decide she was the chosen one and that she was the only person who could help the fae get their powers back.
She also wasn't expecting the four fae kings she would have to go into the labyrinth with or expecting them to actually be nice and funny and not the monsters she always thought fae to be.
I honestly love Lacey's style of writing she draws you in from the first chapter and makes you not want to put the book down. I can't wait for the next book in the series cause it wasn't a nice cliff she left the book on I kept trying to turn the page for more.
March 11, 2026
Wow, what a fantastic new romantasy series!
Lacey Carter Andersen has created a brand-new series with new characters in a new world… but this world hasn’t been kind to our heroine, Allette. After losing both of her parents at a young age, her grandparents move in to take care of her… or maybe take advantage would be a better word. They work her to the bone, with none the wiser living as remote as they do and beat her with the smallest of infractions.
When arriving in town, she accidentally gets thrown into the monthly sacrifice and chosen to be given to the Fae. All she has ever known of the Fae is that they are atrocious beings… so when their deity, Varua, chooses her instead of killing her, she has no idea why. And when one of the Fae Kings comes to check the alter the next day, he is astonished to find her alive… AND chosen. King Syvian quickly takes her back to the castle where the other three kings, King Oberon, King Ashton, and King Cassius await. Now that their chosen human has arrived, they can finally go on the quest to return their powers to them and their people – regardless of what Allette wants. However, they come to an agreement for her help – she will be allowed to return home AND kill one specific Fae of her choice.
They start their quest to the labyrinth that none have ever returned from… where they face danger after danger. But have they bitten off more than they can chew? And why does this so common human make each of them yearn for her?
I can’t wait to find out what happens in the next book!
Lacey Carter Andersen has created a brand-new series with new characters in a new world… but this world hasn’t been kind to our heroine, Allette. After losing both of her parents at a young age, her grandparents move in to take care of her… or maybe take advantage would be a better word. They work her to the bone, with none the wiser living as remote as they do and beat her with the smallest of infractions.
When arriving in town, she accidentally gets thrown into the monthly sacrifice and chosen to be given to the Fae. All she has ever known of the Fae is that they are atrocious beings… so when their deity, Varua, chooses her instead of killing her, she has no idea why. And when one of the Fae Kings comes to check the alter the next day, he is astonished to find her alive… AND chosen. King Syvian quickly takes her back to the castle where the other three kings, King Oberon, King Ashton, and King Cassius await. Now that their chosen human has arrived, they can finally go on the quest to return their powers to them and their people – regardless of what Allette wants. However, they come to an agreement for her help – she will be allowed to return home AND kill one specific Fae of her choice.
They start their quest to the labyrinth that none have ever returned from… where they face danger after danger. But have they bitten off more than they can chew? And why does this so common human make each of them yearn for her?
I can’t wait to find out what happens in the next book!
March 19, 2026
Alette, orphaned at a young age and mistreated by her grandparents doesn't think life can get any worse. But on a trip to the village to get supplies she finds herself taken and chained to an altar as a human sacrifice. Not expecting to survive the night when the goddess arrives she seems to find Alette worthy and spares her making her the chosen one to save all fae kind. With only the help of the 4 fae kings they give her a minimal training before embarking on a journey to take on the Labyrinth. If she makes it through, she will save the fae and earn her freedom but the odds are not in her favour. Those that enter the Labyrinth have never returned.
This author has a knack of writing stories that suck the reader in from the first page. I loved the character building for Alette with the whole backstory of how her life has been to date, it's not a happy tale and it's no wonder she hates the fae with what happened with her mother. Things are slow burn with the kings and they are starting to show their vulnerabilities with Alette which does make them more likable. I do have 2 clear favourites in the men, Ashton and Sylvian but I think thats because they seem more humourous and easygoing although the other 2 are definitely needed to balance out the personalities of the group.
With this being the first in a series I was expecting a cliffhanger but not like this. I'm speechless! I really need book 2 as soon as possible, my mind is racing on whether there is a way out of this for the characters!
This author has a knack of writing stories that suck the reader in from the first page. I loved the character building for Alette with the whole backstory of how her life has been to date, it's not a happy tale and it's no wonder she hates the fae with what happened with her mother. Things are slow burn with the kings and they are starting to show their vulnerabilities with Alette which does make them more likable. I do have 2 clear favourites in the men, Ashton and Sylvian but I think thats because they seem more humourous and easygoing although the other 2 are definitely needed to balance out the personalities of the group.
With this being the first in a series I was expecting a cliffhanger but not like this. I'm speechless! I really need book 2 as soon as possible, my mind is racing on whether there is a way out of this for the characters!
March 24, 2026
Never trust a fae.....this story is the first in the series, starting out introducing us to Alette, our FMC. A human woman, she lives on a farm with her grandparents, not such a good life (spoiler: he is a terrible person and she knows only pain and abuse because of him). One day on a visit into the local town, she gets caught up in the human sacrifices ritual, something done to appease the Fae gods.
Selected as a sacrifice, this jumpstarts her journey to the fae world, where she meets Varuna, the fae Goddess, on the sacrifice altar, and is told she will be the chosen one - the one to unite the fae kings and restore their powers from the curse put upon them. We then are introduced to the fae Kings: King Sylvian, of the earth fae; King Oberson, of the fire fae; King Ashton, of the wind fae; and King Cassius, of the water fae.
As Alette and the kings begin their journey to the labyrinth where they must face the trials and tribulations in order to restore their power, we begin to see the interesting dynamic between the kings, and their budding interest in Alette, who according to them is merely a human. Yet is she something more?
We finish off on a cliffhanger (ahhhhhh), but this story is well worth the read if you love magic, fae, danger, a slow burn, and a strong FMC who begins to grow into her own. Will she be able to help them successfully navigate the labyrinth? Will the fae magic be restored? Cannot wait for the next installment of the series!!!
I received an ARC copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Selected as a sacrifice, this jumpstarts her journey to the fae world, where she meets Varuna, the fae Goddess, on the sacrifice altar, and is told she will be the chosen one - the one to unite the fae kings and restore their powers from the curse put upon them. We then are introduced to the fae Kings: King Sylvian, of the earth fae; King Oberson, of the fire fae; King Ashton, of the wind fae; and King Cassius, of the water fae.
As Alette and the kings begin their journey to the labyrinth where they must face the trials and tribulations in order to restore their power, we begin to see the interesting dynamic between the kings, and their budding interest in Alette, who according to them is merely a human. Yet is she something more?
We finish off on a cliffhanger (ahhhhhh), but this story is well worth the read if you love magic, fae, danger, a slow burn, and a strong FMC who begins to grow into her own. Will she be able to help them successfully navigate the labyrinth? Will the fae magic be restored? Cannot wait for the next installment of the series!!!
I received an ARC copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 25, 2026
Trial of Curses and Fae: Into The Labyrinth 1 by Lacey Carter Andersen is a why-choose romantasy. Alette is a human that is sacrificed to the fae. Expecting death she is surprised to find that instead she is chosen by the goddess to lead the 4 fae kings into a deadly labyrinth to restore their magic. However she is surprised to find these men are not the monsters she expected. Can they survive the labyrinth and can she keep her distance from these men she fears will be her undoing.
I am hooked on this series. It has an amazing start and it just got better. It is fast-paced with plenty of action along with amazing world-building. I loved the descriptions of the fae magic, lands, and animals. It is definitely slow-burn with low heat that I'm sure will build throughout the series. However the chemistry is there. The character development is perfect with each king representing his element in unique ways. Alette is an amazing character both strong and wise, not physical strength but that which comes from surviving and being resilient, making the Kings question what they think of humans and themselves.
I will be impatiently waiting for book 2. If you enjoy romantic fantasies with fae Kings, alternate realms, a human female chosen by the goddess, magic, monsters, possessive alpha men, an inexperienced female, chemistry and plenty of action and adventure then this is your read! It ends with a cliffhanger so prepare to get wrecked and left wanting but this book is oh so worth it!
I am hooked on this series. It has an amazing start and it just got better. It is fast-paced with plenty of action along with amazing world-building. I loved the descriptions of the fae magic, lands, and animals. It is definitely slow-burn with low heat that I'm sure will build throughout the series. However the chemistry is there. The character development is perfect with each king representing his element in unique ways. Alette is an amazing character both strong and wise, not physical strength but that which comes from surviving and being resilient, making the Kings question what they think of humans and themselves.
I will be impatiently waiting for book 2. If you enjoy romantic fantasies with fae Kings, alternate realms, a human female chosen by the goddess, magic, monsters, possessive alpha men, an inexperienced female, chemistry and plenty of action and adventure then this is your read! It ends with a cliffhanger so prepare to get wrecked and left wanting but this book is oh so worth it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Not just a clifffhanger, a sheer cliff drop-off
A slow-burn start to this trilogy where humans and fae are at odds. Alette grows up under her grandparents' cruel hands and she does her best to make herself invisible. After a particularly disturbing day, she makes her way to town, only to stumble upon a ceremony to sacrifice a girl to the fae. And guess who gets chosen....just her luck. Although when Alette is there waiting for her end, the fae goddess chooses her for a very specific task. Now, when the Earth Fae King comes to collect her, and finds her alive, shock rolls through all of fae-kind. Alette and the four fae kings must make it through a treacherous labyrinth in order for the fae to get their power back. As the fae look down on the human, the human wants nothing to do with the fae, because Alette knows the monsters they can be. Only the more time they spend together, Alette sees they might be more broken than she is, and not quite as monstrous as the fae from her past. And the stubborn, haughty kings, start to see Alette as more than the fragile human, one with thoughts and feelings of her own. They are so used to looking down upon the humans as less-than, they are shocked to find the wit and intelligence Alette brings to the table. Now after they arrive at the labyrinth, they make it past a few obstacles, only to come across the biggest one yet - and then....wait for the next book. I have a love hate with these cliffhangers.
A slow-burn start to this trilogy where humans and fae are at odds. Alette grows up under her grandparents' cruel hands and she does her best to make herself invisible. After a particularly disturbing day, she makes her way to town, only to stumble upon a ceremony to sacrifice a girl to the fae. And guess who gets chosen....just her luck. Although when Alette is there waiting for her end, the fae goddess chooses her for a very specific task. Now, when the Earth Fae King comes to collect her, and finds her alive, shock rolls through all of fae-kind. Alette and the four fae kings must make it through a treacherous labyrinth in order for the fae to get their power back. As the fae look down on the human, the human wants nothing to do with the fae, because Alette knows the monsters they can be. Only the more time they spend together, Alette sees they might be more broken than she is, and not quite as monstrous as the fae from her past. And the stubborn, haughty kings, start to see Alette as more than the fragile human, one with thoughts and feelings of her own. They are so used to looking down upon the humans as less-than, they are shocked to find the wit and intelligence Alette brings to the table. Now after they arrive at the labyrinth, they make it past a few obstacles, only to come across the biggest one yet - and then....wait for the next book. I have a love hate with these cliffhangers.
March 8, 2026
Lacey Carter is back with another fantastic why-choose romantasy. Trial of Curses and Fae, as you guessed it, centers on the fae. Four dark fae kings, to be exact, and one spunky human female.
Alette is a survivor. She's been dealt a crap hand, but she endures, finding a rare bit of happiness whenever she can. With that description, I would have expected a tough-as-nails MFC, but Alette is a softer character and a bit naive. She's been broken down to the point where she doesn't even stand up for herself, and that just breaks my heart. Alette finds herself in the company of four elemental kings. They started off as arrogant as only royal fae can be, but they were charming in their own way, and they started to grow on me. This is a slow burn. None of the MCs are sure about any of their feelings, but there's a spark.
I tear through all of Lacey's books because they're so good, and this book was no exception. There were a lot of elements I loved. The fae, with their lavish balls, elemental powers, magical forest, and unique creatures, all paint a beautiful picture. However, the labyrinth was the best part. The forced proximity trope comes into play. It was dark, magical, and dangerous, with plenty of obstacles for them to face. Plus, Alette really started to shine. Lacey ended with a wicked cliffhanger that left me holding my breath. I can't wait to get my hands on the next book.
Alette is a survivor. She's been dealt a crap hand, but she endures, finding a rare bit of happiness whenever she can. With that description, I would have expected a tough-as-nails MFC, but Alette is a softer character and a bit naive. She's been broken down to the point where she doesn't even stand up for herself, and that just breaks my heart. Alette finds herself in the company of four elemental kings. They started off as arrogant as only royal fae can be, but they were charming in their own way, and they started to grow on me. This is a slow burn. None of the MCs are sure about any of their feelings, but there's a spark.
I tear through all of Lacey's books because they're so good, and this book was no exception. There were a lot of elements I loved. The fae, with their lavish balls, elemental powers, magical forest, and unique creatures, all paint a beautiful picture. However, the labyrinth was the best part. The forced proximity trope comes into play. It was dark, magical, and dangerous, with plenty of obstacles for them to face. Plus, Alette really started to shine. Lacey ended with a wicked cliffhanger that left me holding my breath. I can't wait to get my hands on the next book.
March 14, 2026
Trial and Curses of the Fae is book 1 of Into The Labyrinth series. It’s fast, addictive, and full of that delicious tension that comes from throwing a stubborn, capable heroine into a world that wants to break her, and watching her refuse to bend.
What I loved most is how the story balances danger with connection. Alette is fierce in that quiet, determined way and has the kind of strength that is carved from survival, not ego.
Every trial forces her to confront the parts of herself she’s tried to bury, and the Fae Kings only make things more complicated.
The Four Kings, are exactly the kind of morally‑dark, sharp‑edged fae that make these stories so addictive. They challenge her, protect her, frustrate her, and tempt her in equal measure. The chemistry is constant, but it never overshadows the plot and only adds to it.
There’s distrust, heat, and that slow shift from enemies to something more.
The worldbuilding is easy to fall into, the pacing never drags. It’s the kind of book you inhale in one sitting and immediately want the next one.
Tropes
• Fae trials
• Enemies to reluctant allies
• Morally grey fae love interests
• Hidden power / hidden identity
• Found strength
• Slow-burn tension
• Forced proximity
• “Touch her and die” energy
Trigger Warnings
• Violence and injury (non‑graphic)
• Threats and captivity elements
• Emotional manipulation
• Power imbalance dynamics
• Dark fae themes
Spice 🌶
Tension-heavy, slow-burn
What I loved most is how the story balances danger with connection. Alette is fierce in that quiet, determined way and has the kind of strength that is carved from survival, not ego.
Every trial forces her to confront the parts of herself she’s tried to bury, and the Fae Kings only make things more complicated.
The Four Kings, are exactly the kind of morally‑dark, sharp‑edged fae that make these stories so addictive. They challenge her, protect her, frustrate her, and tempt her in equal measure. The chemistry is constant, but it never overshadows the plot and only adds to it.
There’s distrust, heat, and that slow shift from enemies to something more.
The worldbuilding is easy to fall into, the pacing never drags. It’s the kind of book you inhale in one sitting and immediately want the next one.
Tropes
• Fae trials
• Enemies to reluctant allies
• Morally grey fae love interests
• Hidden power / hidden identity
• Found strength
• Slow-burn tension
• Forced proximity
• “Touch her and die” energy
Trigger Warnings
• Violence and injury (non‑graphic)
• Threats and captivity elements
• Emotional manipulation
• Power imbalance dynamics
• Dark fae themes
Spice 🌶
Tension-heavy, slow-burn
March 12, 2026
Alette is just a normal young woman, who has lost her mother and her father. Alette’s grandparents come to take care of her and they’re up bringing is not as kind and caring like her parents were. Yet she endures. One day as she goes to market riding her horse Goose she comes upon the guards gathering young women for a drawing for a sacrifice to the fae. She tries to fight and run but she is caught. She is tied with chains to a pale white alter in the middle of the woods. A woman materializes from the border of the fae land, she is tall, draped in a blood-stained dress with sharp jagged teeth, Alette knows who she is she is Varua a fae deity. Instead of taking her as a sacrifice. Varua makes Alette a knife from her backbone a special knife only she can handle. Varua tells Alette she has been chosen. The next thing Alette is being carried back to the Fae by a King. There are four kings one of fire, earth, land and water. Because of a 250-year-old curse where the fae lost their connection to their magic. Alette finds herself on a quest with the four kings to go through the labyrinth Varua has made if they make it though all will be restored to the fae, however it is not a walk in the park. I am languishing waiting for the next book.
March 31, 2026
Just finished this and WOW—what a cliffhanger!
Alette is such an unexpected heroine. At 23, she comes across as both naive and deeply scarred, and while she doesn’t start out with the typical strengths you’d expect in a reverse harem lead, her sheer determination to survive becomes her defining trait. Watching her get pulled from a simple supply trip into a dangerous fae adventure was such a wild ride.
The dynamic with the four fae kings—Oberon (fire), Ashton (wind), Cassius (water), and Sylvian (earth)—is honestly one of my favorite parts. Their swagger, political tension, and growing connection with Alette create some great humor and tension, especially since she has zero patience for fae etiquette.
The premise is so intriguing too—a cursed fae realm, a labyrinth, and a goddess (Varuna) who may be more ally than enemy. The way Alette becomes central to restoring the fae’s magic, despite wanting nothing to do with any of it, adds such a compelling layer to her character.
The labyrinth trials really kick off the emotional bonding, and by the end, I was completely hooked. I need to know what happens next!
If you enjoy reverse harem with slow-burn bonds, fae politics, and an unconventional heroine, this one is definitely worth the read.
Alette is such an unexpected heroine. At 23, she comes across as both naive and deeply scarred, and while she doesn’t start out with the typical strengths you’d expect in a reverse harem lead, her sheer determination to survive becomes her defining trait. Watching her get pulled from a simple supply trip into a dangerous fae adventure was such a wild ride.
The dynamic with the four fae kings—Oberon (fire), Ashton (wind), Cassius (water), and Sylvian (earth)—is honestly one of my favorite parts. Their swagger, political tension, and growing connection with Alette create some great humor and tension, especially since she has zero patience for fae etiquette.
The premise is so intriguing too—a cursed fae realm, a labyrinth, and a goddess (Varuna) who may be more ally than enemy. The way Alette becomes central to restoring the fae’s magic, despite wanting nothing to do with any of it, adds such a compelling layer to her character.
The labyrinth trials really kick off the emotional bonding, and by the end, I was completely hooked. I need to know what happens next!
If you enjoy reverse harem with slow-burn bonds, fae politics, and an unconventional heroine, this one is definitely worth the read.
March 14, 2026
With Lacey Carter Andersen I always know that I'll get a good story.
When I started reading the book, I checked the blurb twice to make sure I hadn't mixed up my books, because it begins very different from what I expected. But I think the start is important to show how strong she is- mentally, mind you, not physically. Which is also something I really like in this story she (Aletta) is the Chosen One which makes her special, but she isn't turned into superwoman. She isn't super smart (book- or street smart) and she also hasn't done martial arts from a young age, she just has a strong will to survive.
The Fae kings are something else. They definitely think that they are special snowflakes, that humans consider them almost gods and that they feel honoured to be sacrificed every month. So they are definitely confused when Aletta doesn't seem excited to go into the scary Labyrinth to help save the Fae world.
Its a great first book that is funny, mysterious, and full of action. I can't wait for the next book to come out to learn more about this mysterious curse and about the background of the fae kings.
ps "staff of life" made me laugh out loud
When I started reading the book, I checked the blurb twice to make sure I hadn't mixed up my books, because it begins very different from what I expected. But I think the start is important to show how strong she is- mentally, mind you, not physically. Which is also something I really like in this story she (Aletta) is the Chosen One which makes her special, but she isn't turned into superwoman. She isn't super smart (book- or street smart) and she also hasn't done martial arts from a young age, she just has a strong will to survive.
The Fae kings are something else. They definitely think that they are special snowflakes, that humans consider them almost gods and that they feel honoured to be sacrificed every month. So they are definitely confused when Aletta doesn't seem excited to go into the scary Labyrinth to help save the Fae world.
Its a great first book that is funny, mysterious, and full of action. I can't wait for the next book to come out to learn more about this mysterious curse and about the background of the fae kings.
ps "staff of life" made me laugh out loud
March 21, 2026
Goodness, gracious! I don’t like how I always fall for these cliffhangers! I’m like oh my God yes, the end of this book is getting amazing and then there are no more pages to turn! Why do you choose to torture your readers LCA? GAH! So anyways, I loved seeing this book hit my inbox, so even though my life has been crazy af this week, I’ve been reading this in every spare minute I had. I am enamored but also exasperated by these MMC, I’m sure we’ll get to see through all their layers by the end of the series but right now I’m having such a hard time with a few of them (all of them). I get irritated with the playboy/frat boy vibes but this author doesn’t usually write unredeemable aholes- so I’m anxiously awaiting for their slow transformation into the Fae kings they’re meant to be….
Poor Alette, my heart hurts for her but I adore her. I loved the “inserts himself where” conversation- 100% gave me a flashback from that scene in Bridgerton in season 3 and I cackled at 6am on a Saturday when everyone else in my house is asleep.
Please make book 2 happen fast, I need to know what happens off of that cliffhanger, it hit me out of nowhere!
Poor Alette, my heart hurts for her but I adore her. I loved the “inserts himself where” conversation- 100% gave me a flashback from that scene in Bridgerton in season 3 and I cackled at 6am on a Saturday when everyone else in my house is asleep.
Please make book 2 happen fast, I need to know what happens off of that cliffhanger, it hit me out of nowhere!
March 8, 2026
Great start to a new series, this book follows Alette,
A human who was hurt & abused by her grandparents when her father died. On a trip to the local village Alette is caught up in a sacrifice ritual to the fae. When the fae goddess comes for Alette instead of killing her she gifts her with a special weapon. Alette is flung into the Fae world & meets the four Fae Kings; Sylivan King of Earth, Oberon King of Fire, Ashton King of Wind, Cassius King of Water. The goddess cursed the Fae over a 100 years ago & they are unable to use their powers. For them to regain their powers the four of them plus the chosen must solve & complete the Labyrinth. This is a good adventure, Alette doesn’t trust the Fae & although she is a strong character after everything she has been through, there is an innocence about her. Whilst the Fae argue amongst themselves & also fight over who is the better fae for Alette. They are still yet to learn for them to solve the Labyrinth they must get over their differences & learn to work together.
A human who was hurt & abused by her grandparents when her father died. On a trip to the local village Alette is caught up in a sacrifice ritual to the fae. When the fae goddess comes for Alette instead of killing her she gifts her with a special weapon. Alette is flung into the Fae world & meets the four Fae Kings; Sylivan King of Earth, Oberon King of Fire, Ashton King of Wind, Cassius King of Water. The goddess cursed the Fae over a 100 years ago & they are unable to use their powers. For them to regain their powers the four of them plus the chosen must solve & complete the Labyrinth. This is a good adventure, Alette doesn’t trust the Fae & although she is a strong character after everything she has been through, there is an innocence about her. Whilst the Fae argue amongst themselves & also fight over who is the better fae for Alette. They are still yet to learn for them to solve the Labyrinth they must get over their differences & learn to work together.
March 11, 2026
This book is a total page-turner from start to finish and makes a fantastic opening to the series. Alette is a powerhouse—strong, resilient, and oddly radiant in her grit. Since losing her father and being raised by her grandparents, she’s known nothing but pain and the art of surviving. Buried memories flicker here and there, and she knows instinctively that the Fae are monsters—though she still refuses to surrender to them.
Alette’s rare trip to town doesn’t unfold as she expects. She’s captured and offered as a sacrifice, yet a goddess intervenes, sparing her and gifting her a weapon of divine origin. The kings of the Fae lands bring her into a realm of unfamiliar reverence, yet she remains determined to reclaim her life and return to her beloved farm.
To these four kings, Alette is no ordinary human. She accompanies them into a labyrinth, hoping to endure the trials, restore the Fae’s power, and cling to her humanity as she fights for a way home. The story ends on a gripping cliffhanger, leaving you aching for Book 2—and I can’t wait to dive back in.
Alette’s rare trip to town doesn’t unfold as she expects. She’s captured and offered as a sacrifice, yet a goddess intervenes, sparing her and gifting her a weapon of divine origin. The kings of the Fae lands bring her into a realm of unfamiliar reverence, yet she remains determined to reclaim her life and return to her beloved farm.
To these four kings, Alette is no ordinary human. She accompanies them into a labyrinth, hoping to endure the trials, restore the Fae’s power, and cling to her humanity as she fights for a way home. The story ends on a gripping cliffhanger, leaving you aching for Book 2—and I can’t wait to dive back in.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 12, 2026
Okay so this book was actually wild. Alette goes to the market like a normal person and somehow ends up offered as a human sacrifice and dragged into the fae world. Instead of dying though, she gets stuck guiding FOUR cursed fae kings through a deadly labyrinth. I would personally pass away immediately but she keeps going which honestly impressed me.
The kings all have totally different vibes which made it fun. Sylvian is the quiet protective one, Oberon is all angry fire energy, Ashton is the smug flirty menace, and Cassius is the cold mysterious one who definitely knows more than he’s saying. The tension between all of them and Alette is definitely building. Ooh la la.
The labyrinth itself is super dangerous and weird and the whole book just feels like one bad decision after another in the best way. And then it ends right when things start getting really intense which was honestly rude!!! Like hello??? That cliffhanger was insane. Now I’m just sitting here waiting for the next book because I need to know what happens to Alette and her very dramatic group of fae kings.
The kings all have totally different vibes which made it fun. Sylvian is the quiet protective one, Oberon is all angry fire energy, Ashton is the smug flirty menace, and Cassius is the cold mysterious one who definitely knows more than he’s saying. The tension between all of them and Alette is definitely building. Ooh la la.
The labyrinth itself is super dangerous and weird and the whole book just feels like one bad decision after another in the best way. And then it ends right when things start getting really intense which was honestly rude!!! Like hello??? That cliffhanger was insane. Now I’m just sitting here waiting for the next book because I need to know what happens to Alette and her very dramatic group of fae kings.
March 27, 2026
I really enjoyed Trial of Curses and Fae: Into the Labyrinth (Book 1) by Lace Carter Anderson. I love this author’s writing style, Lace always builds worlds that just pull me in, and this one was no different. The labyrinth setting was so well done, it felt intense and unpredictable the whole way through and kept me hooked.
I really liked how each of the four kings had their own distinct personalities and energy. The tension between them and the main character builds really well and doesn’t feel rushed. You can feel that shift from seeing her as a sacrifice to something more, and it adds so much to the story.
The female lead is strong in a quiet, resilient way, which I liked. Even though she’s in a situation where she doesn’t have much control, she still holds her own and makes you want to root for her.
There’s a great balance of tension, danger, and heat, but it doesn’t take away from the storyline. Everything still feels really driven by the plot and the bigger stakes.
Overall, such a strong start to the series. I’m really looking forward to the next book.
I really liked how each of the four kings had their own distinct personalities and energy. The tension between them and the main character builds really well and doesn’t feel rushed. You can feel that shift from seeing her as a sacrifice to something more, and it adds so much to the story.
The female lead is strong in a quiet, resilient way, which I liked. Even though she’s in a situation where she doesn’t have much control, she still holds her own and makes you want to root for her.
There’s a great balance of tension, danger, and heat, but it doesn’t take away from the storyline. Everything still feels really driven by the plot and the bigger stakes.
Overall, such a strong start to the series. I’m really looking forward to the next book.
April 19, 2026
First item of note for TRIAL OF THE CURSES AND FAE—well, at least the great big elephant in the room—is Sylvian and Oberon are so full of hubris, absolute haughtiness, they are a hard pill to swallow at first. Then the layers begin to peel away. The four kings are all imposing, incredibly handsome, beautiful bodied, and just as damaged as Alette. TRIAL OF CURSES AND FAE is filled with banter, bickering kings, action, a heck of an adventure, jealous fae, and deadly monsters. Great foundation to this new series.
*** Recommended ***
MMC:
✨Sylvian - Earth
✨Oberon - Fire
✨Ashton - Wind
✨Cassius - Water
FMC:
✨Alette
HEA/Cliffhanger:
✨cliffhanger
Series:
✨Book 1: Into the Labyrinth
Tropes:
👉dark fae romance
👉fantasy romance
👉reverse harem
👉possessive MMCs
👉virgin fmc
👉fae kings x human
Triggers:🛑see content warning page/author’s website for full list🛑
💥18+
💥 🌶️🌶️🌶️, mf, mostly talk, heavy petting
💥profanity
💥violence
💥abuse
💥horrible familial caretakers
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
*** Recommended ***
MMC:
✨Sylvian - Earth
✨Oberon - Fire
✨Ashton - Wind
✨Cassius - Water
FMC:
✨Alette
HEA/Cliffhanger:
✨cliffhanger
Series:
✨Book 1: Into the Labyrinth
Tropes:
👉dark fae romance
👉fantasy romance
👉reverse harem
👉possessive MMCs
👉virgin fmc
👉fae kings x human
Triggers:🛑see content warning page/author’s website for full list🛑
💥18+
💥 🌶️🌶️🌶️, mf, mostly talk, heavy petting
💥profanity
💥violence
💥abuse
💥horrible familial caretakers
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 10, 2026
And so it begins
Trigger warning: there are acts of physical abuse on page and the after effects of mental abuse as well.
There is a lot of world building so at first the pace is slow. I mean it’s also a bit fascinating reading about this world taking shape, but still it’s a lot. I liked Alette very much. She is brave and strong, smart, kind and caring despite all the pain life has thrown her way. In all the world development there’s not really an explanation of the barrier between fae and human and why there’s a sacrifice. As it sets up the plot I wanted more on that but perhaps in later books. I have a feeling the reason the fae are cursed and the reason that Alette hates all fae is connected, but it’s just a theory so far. The labyrinth is well let’s just say if it was the last vacation destination in all the worlds you’d probably decide vacations are overrated anyway. There’s definite tension building between the kings and Alette which should be interesting as they bicker like toddlers. Not a huge fan of the cliffhanger ending but all in all a great start.
Trigger warning: there are acts of physical abuse on page and the after effects of mental abuse as well.
There is a lot of world building so at first the pace is slow. I mean it’s also a bit fascinating reading about this world taking shape, but still it’s a lot. I liked Alette very much. She is brave and strong, smart, kind and caring despite all the pain life has thrown her way. In all the world development there’s not really an explanation of the barrier between fae and human and why there’s a sacrifice. As it sets up the plot I wanted more on that but perhaps in later books. I have a feeling the reason the fae are cursed and the reason that Alette hates all fae is connected, but it’s just a theory so far. The labyrinth is well let’s just say if it was the last vacation destination in all the worlds you’d probably decide vacations are overrated anyway. There’s definite tension building between the kings and Alette which should be interesting as they bicker like toddlers. Not a huge fan of the cliffhanger ending but all in all a great start.
May 18, 2026
Since losing her father, Alette's life has been hard. Her grandparents, instead of being loving, are strict, and punishment is given easily. What she doesn't expect is how drastically her life changes when she is sent into town. Faced with this new challenge with the people that humans have been taught to fear and not to trust, Alette must rely on the four Fae Kings to complete their quest.
Kings Oberon, Cassius, Sylvian, and Ashton have to accept that this tiny human is the person who will be the one to end their curse. Why has the Goddess put so much trust in her? Is there something they are not seeing? Also, this woman has a pull on all four Kings; all find they want her for themselves. But all she wants is to go back home. Can they persuade her to stay in the Fae realm?
Can the four Kings put aside their differences and come together with Alette to face the challenges ahead, and hopefully complete the quest to end their curse?
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Kings Oberon, Cassius, Sylvian, and Ashton have to accept that this tiny human is the person who will be the one to end their curse. Why has the Goddess put so much trust in her? Is there something they are not seeing? Also, this woman has a pull on all four Kings; all find they want her for themselves. But all she wants is to go back home. Can they persuade her to stay in the Fae realm?
Can the four Kings put aside their differences and come together with Alette to face the challenges ahead, and hopefully complete the quest to end their curse?
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Allette lives on the farm her dad owned, with her grandparents. After her father died, they moved in to take care of her, although she did all the chores. They regularly mistreated her for doing things wrong, or so they said. She's sent into town one day, and has the misfortune of being there when the town is selecting a sacrifice to the Fae, where she's promptly chosen.
She's taken away to the area where the veil between the human land & Fae lands is, tied up, & left. After some time, and some interesting events, she's taken by a Fae king who claims she's the chosen one.
The interaction between the naive Allette and the 4 Fae Kings (Oberon, Sylvian, Cassius, Ashton) is a joy to watch. As they traverse on their journey to fulfill the prophecy of Allete's destiny, they begin to learn about each other, & grow in their relationships with each other.
This does end in a cliffhanger, which makes you really want to read book #2. Can't wait to read it!
She's taken away to the area where the veil between the human land & Fae lands is, tied up, & left. After some time, and some interesting events, she's taken by a Fae king who claims she's the chosen one.
The interaction between the naive Allette and the 4 Fae Kings (Oberon, Sylvian, Cassius, Ashton) is a joy to watch. As they traverse on their journey to fulfill the prophecy of Allete's destiny, they begin to learn about each other, & grow in their relationships with each other.
This does end in a cliffhanger, which makes you really want to read book #2. Can't wait to read it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
A human, four Fae kings and a labyrinth set to kill them! Alette lost her parents early in life and was raised by her cruel grandparents. Set to be sold off to a cruel farmer down the road, Alette makes one final trip to town and finds herself hauled off, strapped to a stone alter and staring at a goddess. Now the "chosen one", Alette is in the Fae lands with four kings who are determined to get their magic back after being cursed by the goddess.
Alette shows tenacity as she continually pushes through every challenge handed to her. The kings are either broody or "charming" and assume she's thrilled to be in their presence. As they enter the labyrinth, it's not long before things go sideways and they have to work together to survive. This first book definitely left the door open to more story twists and there's definitely more to these kings than first appears. Looking forward to book two!
Alette shows tenacity as she continually pushes through every challenge handed to her. The kings are either broody or "charming" and assume she's thrilled to be in their presence. As they enter the labyrinth, it's not long before things go sideways and they have to work together to survive. This first book definitely left the door open to more story twists and there's definitely more to these kings than first appears. Looking forward to book two!
March 16, 2026
Alette did not have an easy life. Lost her mother after a fae attack, lost her father to sickness, still as a child, and was raised by abusive grandparents. And if that wasn't enough, now she is chosen as a sacrifice to the fae - only, the goddess marks as the chosen one. Alette is taken to the fae realm and set to face almost impossible task - to bring back the magic of the fae. As a human, that seems unrealistic and dangerous... and the fae kings are not making it easy, either.
I am quite fond of Alette's character. She is so innocent, so naive in some aspects, and yet so mature and wise on the other hand. She is stronger than she seems, and has qualities that no trauma can subdue. The four fae kings look next to her like kindergarten. Although later in the book it becomes clear there is more to them than they let others see. I appreciate that the romance is a bit slower and not an insta-love, and am quite intrigued by the labyrinth and its challenges.
I am quite fond of Alette's character. She is so innocent, so naive in some aspects, and yet so mature and wise on the other hand. She is stronger than she seems, and has qualities that no trauma can subdue. The four fae kings look next to her like kindergarten. Although later in the book it becomes clear there is more to them than they let others see. I appreciate that the romance is a bit slower and not an insta-love, and am quite intrigued by the labyrinth and its challenges.
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