Lyla Maurell’s future lays within the walls of the Council of Noctis. The only thing that stands in her way is the little matter of suitable work experience.
One white lie later, Lyla secures herself the perfect stepping-stone role at the Theatre Enthique. But there’s someone who knows her secret… Her alluring and intimidating rival, Corwyn Idthraki.
Can Lyla hold onto her job long enough to make her way to the Council?
Oh how I have fallen in love with this mystical Realm of Night! 5/5 ⭐️
This little novella was like a balm, a breathe of fresh air in the vampire genre. I loved the confidence it exuded in being utterly sweet and soft, but also unapologetically fierce in character is not one I see in paranormal romances, and definitely not one I associate with Noctis, but it worked here. And I'm glad it did!
Lauren was able to write a sweet slow-burn story that appeared so effortless that I was instantly caught up in this little ploy. Whatever formula she used, it brought about nostalgia so strong it was like I was thrown back into a classic romance novel.
Hate to love, but she gets his job? Check. Slow burn, but he tries to unfurl her plans? Check Check. Hot vampires, but they learn more about themselves in the process? Check check check!
That's what this little novellas truly is. It's not just a cute and funny romance between two rival bloodlines after the same job, but a courageous love story about finding resolve and risking one's identity for the truth. Having the confidence to be true to yourself actually comes with greater rewards than lying or staying silent. After all ...
Someone's always watching 👀 😏
BUT, besides that wonderful message, I loved the nature of the romance in the story. For such a short novellas, Lauren was able to capture those early blossoming feelings between Lyla and Corwyn so beautifully. One second it's butterflies, and the next it's electricity! They gave middle school taunting with hair pulling and name calling, then a summer happens and both characters came back into high school with new perspectives — that was the vibe, and I adored it 😆
It was so nice to see how far Lauren's writing has come. Emotions were portrayed with such visceral description that I had to take pause at how easy it was to understand and relate. Almost like it ... resonated 😉
I loved how Corwyn was snarky and how Lyla was fierce. Oh, and that storeroom scene?! Yep.
This was a perfect little novellas accompaniment to Nights of Noctis. And yes, Lauren, I caught those Easter Eggs 🤭
Interesting characters and world building, and I really like the main characters, Lyla and Corwyn. I’d love to learn more about the vampire families and why the Maurells are a lower tier vampire family. I’d also love to see more of the world of Noctis and the creatures that reside there. My only issue is that the story is too short! I think the romance is believable as Lyla and Corwyn had chemistry and they antagonized each other for weeks but I feel like it suffered (for me) for being too short. I understand it’s a novella but I’d love to read more about them. There’s a lot of lore in this short book that is interesting enough to bring you back for more. I’m looking forward to reading more of Lauren’s work in the world of Noctis. Thank you for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
I recieved an advanced reader copy. I quite enjoyed this book, it was short, gave Gothic vibes and had an important message about having confidence in who you are and not having to lie. The tension and connection between the Lyla and Corwyn was amazing and makes me want to know more about them. The banter between them was amazing and they were well thought out characters. The different species of creatures in the world was fascinating and also being able to distinguish certain emotions from vampires eyes. It was a good short fantasy romance story that makes you feel like you should be proud of who you are and have confidence in yourself 🖤
This novella was such a fun surprise! It’s light, cute, and intriguing all at the same time, and I flew through it in one sitting.
The atmosphere and world-building were amazing! I genuinely felt transported into Lyla’s world. The gothic urban fantasy vibes were chef’s kiss. Add in vampires and werewolves and I was instantly sold! I also loved the banter between Lyla and Corwyn, which made their scenes so entertaining, and the side characters added even more charm to the story.
There’s no spice, but honestly it doesn’t need it. The tension, humour, and mystery keep the story engaging from start to finish.
I’m also a total sucker for a story with a meaningful core message. “Fake it till you make it” might boost your confidence, but this story reminds us that honesty really is the best policy.
Highly recommend if you love urban fantasy with gothic vibes, fun character banter, and supernatural creatures!
This novella was a dark, intriguing ride that I can’t quite shake off. The world-building was atmospheric, with a strong undercurrent of mystery that kept me hooked from start to finish. The characters were complex, each hiding their own secrets, which made the narrative feel layered and intense. The pacing was deliberate, perhaps a little slow at times, but I think that added to the suspense—building tension until the very end.
I’ll admit, the story left me with more questions than answers, but in the best way possible. The twists weren’t easy to predict, and by the time I reached the last page, I was eager to see where the next book would take me. It’s one of those novellas that leaves you haunted, but in a way that’s thrilling.
I can’t wait to dive into the next book in the series, especially after that ending. I received an advanced copy of this novella (thank you to the author!) and I’m excited to see how the story unfolds. Highly recommend it to anyone looking for a dark, atmospheric read that keeps you on your toes.
I absolutely loved the atmosphere and world building within this novella, Lauren’s writing style is amazing.
As a lover of fantasy I haven’t read too many vampire focused books the most recent being The Serpent and the Wings of Night but Ethiques has ticked all of the boxes for me.
Lyla really shone as a main character and watching her character grow and become more confident, deciding to do the right thing even if it would have a negative impact on her was amazing to see.
Corwyn… well what can I say without spoiling it, you love to loathe him and then you just love him. He gives Lyla the push she needs and she does the same in return.
Ethiques of the Enthique was a quick, refreshing read that I am so grateful I got the chance to ARC read.
I absolutely loved this Novella! It's set in the same world as Nights of Noctis but is predominantly based in the theatre (Enthique). The theatre is one of my favourite places in Nights of Noctis, as it is so rich and vibrant and it is definitely a place I would visit (as long as they allowed bogans in black band shirts and ugg boots). It follows the stories of 2 new characters, Lyla and Corwen who are from 2 different vampire families and of course, those families dislike each other greatly. I loved the banter and tension between the MCs and read this book so quickly. Lauren's writing style really appeals to me. And just like Nights of Noctis, this cover is divine.
While being a keen reader of fantasy, I've never gotten into vampires, werewolves and other assorted magical entities. The closest I got was reading the throne of glass series. After reading Ethiques of the Enthique I'm prepared to give it all another go! Lauren M Clark's writing style leaves Sarah J Maas in the dust, and I genuinely was sad when the book ended, wanting to see more of Lyla and Corwyn. It has inspired me to pick up Nights of Noctis to see what else Clark can do with the setting.
I don't even know where to start Lyla and Corwyn... these two can live rent free in my head. I loved everything about this novella the main characters felt so well thought out, the banter was absolutely giving and the chemistry immaculate. I fell in love with this world and am not usually a vampire girly but this hits so different if this is what we're getting from this universe sign me up.
It was so much fun being back in Zentroa. Ethiques of the Enthique is fun trip back to the theater. Lyla is a vampire with her sights set on the Council but first she must work her way up. and what better way then starting her career at the prestigious Theatre Enthique? Unfortunately it's not as easy as she had hoped... Thank you Lauren for letting me read this as an ARC. GO get your copy today.
Another wonderful read! Thank you, Lauren, for the opportunity to dive into this story early. It’s such a warm, heartfelt book with a beautiful message about the importance of staying true to yourself. I’m so excited to see what else you have planned for this world x
It was light and cute, a good peek into an already existing and much larger world. Would love to see these characters again. Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of this book.
I absolutely loved the atmosphere and world building within this novella, Lauren’s writing style is amazing.
As a lover of fantasy I haven’t read too many vampire focused books the most recent being The Serpent and the Wings of Night but Ethiques has ticked all of the boxes for me.
Lyla really shone as a main character and watching her character grow and become more confident, deciding to do the right thing even if it would have a negative impact on her was amazing to see.
Corwyn… well what can I say without spoiling it, you love to loathe him and then you just love him. He gives Lyla the push she needs and she does the same in return.
Ethiques of the Enthique was a quick, refreshing read that I am so grateful I got the chance to ARC read.