Court of Fiends

by Tamsin Hawthorn

Cecily Leighton has lost everyone she ever loved. Awash with grief and destitute, she arrives in London at the home of her uncle, the eccentric Baron Hyssop, who grants her a dowry and a single Season in Town to find a suitable husband. If she fails, she faces an uncertain life as an unwanted burden. But the beau monde is uninterested in a young woman with a questionable background, no matter how lovely.

Julius Darkwood is gentry only by virtue of his vast fortune. An enigma of a man with a poor reputation, he rarely turns up in the gilded mansions of London’s elite. But a chance encounter with a woman of rare magickal talent has him skulking through the ballroom, trying to secure an introduction to Lord Hyssop’s orphaned niece.

The glittering city rests uneasy. Strange beings stalk the gaslit streets. And now, the Baron has disappeared without a trace.

And somehow Mr. Darkwood is at the center of it all. On the ballroom floor. Dancing with Cecily.

Genres: Fantasy, Fae, Romantasy

253 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 1, 2026

About the author

Find me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authortamsi...

Tamsin is an author and designer living in the marshlands of coastal South Carolina with her husband Mr. Hawthorn, a reclusive and enigmatic genius. When not creating, she enjoys reading, witching around, and visiting new places. The Spell Caster is her first published novel.

Reviews

[theshadyivy · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🫦

My lovely Tamsin has done it again — and I am enchanted. ✨🖤

This story pulled me in from the very first page and didn't let go for a single second. 😮‍💨

We're introduced to Cecily — a young woman who has lost everything, and now navigates the glittering, cutthroat world of London's High Society with one singular mission: find the perfect husband and keep up appearances. 💔 I have never felt such a complicated mix of heartache and relief that her life is not mine. 😅 The pressure, the pretense, the performance of it all — Tamsin captures it so vividly it almost suffocates you. In the best possible way.

And then Mr. Darkwood arrives. 😏🖤

The moment he stepped onto the page I knew. Everything was about to shift — and oh, how beautifully it did. 😮‍💨✨

What makes this story truly magical is Tamsin's extraordinary command of language. She doesn't just set the scene — she transports you. Straight into the heart of the Regency era, with all its sharp wit, its unspoken rules, and its delicious tensions. 📖🕯️ And woven through all of it — folklore, magic, and something wonderfully dark simmering just beneath the surface. 🌿🖤

Magnificent is truly the only word. 🥹

Go read this if you love:

🧚 Fae x Human
💔 Yearning
🕯️ Regency Fantasy Romance
🌑 Gothic Folklore
🚪 Closed Door
⭐ Star Crossed Lovers
📖 3rd POV

Tamsin, you absolute sorceress. Never stop. 🖤✨

74/26

[Sara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Voluntary review of an ARC received from the author.

Bridgerton meets Emily Wilde’s Encyclopaedia of Faeries; I really enjoyed this Regency fantasy romance. It’s lighthearted, whimsical, and full of charm. There’s just enough worldbuilding to let your imagination run wild without becoming overbearing, especially for a book that’s only around 200 pages.

The fae elements blended beautifully with the Regency setting, giving the story an enchanting atmosphere while still keeping things fun and easy to read. I especially appreciated how quickly the story pulled me in; it’s the kind of book you can easily devour in a sitting.

If you enjoy magical courts, fae intrigue, romance, and cozy fantasy vibes with a touch of societal drama, Court of Fiends is definitely worth picking up.

[A Bookworm Crafts · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this book, we follow Cecily Leighton, a grieving young woman navigating London's social season. When she encounters the mysterious Mr Darkwood, she discovers that there is a lot more to her world than she realises.

I could not put this book down! It reminded me so much of Jane Austen (one of my favourite authors) but with fae folklore and gothic tension added to it. If Austen had written about the Fae I'm sure it would feel something like this! I loved Cecily as a protagonist; her grief and determination felt genuine, and her chemistry with Mr. Darkwood was *chef's kiss*. At around 215 pages, this is a shorter read, but nothing feels rushed.

A recommended read for fans of Jane Austen, Bridgerton and Regency romance with a fantasy twist.

Thank you to author Tamsin Hawthorn for providing me with a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Yippeekiyayreads · Rating 5 out of 5]

This beautiful tale of love, resilience, grief, and strength captivated my heart and will not let go. There is something about regency romance that transports you to another world. The Court of Fiends by Tamsin Hawthorn takes you back to the days where you use to watch your window at night in the hopes Peter Pan may just pop in to wrangle his shadow, take you with him on a spectacular adventure, and then decide to keep you.

Court of Fiends reminds me of my favorite fantasy stories including stories written by Neil Gaiman, the Bargainer series by Laura Thalassa, and even Where The Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak. Though pieces are reminiscent of those tales, this story is unique and one all its own.

Set in London, this story follows Cecily, who finds herself overwhelmed by grief at the loss of her family and now in the care of her uncle. She is being forced to take advantage of the season in order to secure her future through marriage. Though loved by her uncle and cousin, Cecily is somewhat of an outcast in society and must suffer through the confinement of propriety even when surrounded by subtle cruelty. A chance encounter with Mr. Julius Darkwood, a strange and mysterious gentleman, that ended with her rescue from a deathly circumstance, sparks a connection that could be disastrous for more than just her reputation in polite society.

This story has everything I personally look for in fantasy reads...mystery, suspense, danger, magic, lore, fantastical creatures, political intrigue, and of course love. Love of friends, family, and passionate, end the world for you kind of love. This is not a long novel or a series at 215 pages, yet it carries the biggest heart and creates longing for even a grain of magic to touch just so you can be a part of that world for a moment. Our FMC must learn to trust in herself and accept who she is to truly encompass her inner power of strength. The main characters progression toward each other is beautiful, leaving the reader with a sense of rightness to the ending of their love story.

This is a must read for those who love fantastical worlds, creatures of lore, love that conquers crowns, and character growth. This is truly a lovely piece of literature that is sure to enchant you.

Happy Reading!

[Ashley 💙 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review of advance reader copy provided by the author.

• - - > 3.5 ⭐️ • - - > 1.75 🌶️

A regency fantasy describing the complexity of grief, English socialism, and family dynamics. I didn’t really know what to expect with this book. I found the plot to be intriguing and wanted to give it a try!

Let’s begin with what I enjoyed…
———> the relationship between Cecily and her cousin, Hugh. They seemed to have a more protective brother/sister dynamic and it was nice to read.
———> the powerful sentiments on grief. The on-going struggles of processing one’s grief, specifically Cecily’s, was quite moving. Grief is handled in many ways depending on the person and I especially liked how the author described it.
——-> Mr. Darkwood 😘 he was quite a mystery in the beginning. I wasn’t quite sure what I was about to get myself into when meeting this character but he really proved to be a green flag.
——-> I got some Alice in Wonderland vibes when we reached the Court of Fiends and I quite enjoyed it!
——-> this beautiful quote: “My grief is my privilege to carry, for it means that I loved deeply. That my dear ones will not be forgotten.” 🤍

😕 What missed the mark….
——> while I understand this is a short story, it felt a bit rushed in some ways. Especially with the parts revolving around Cecily’s family and her distant relatives and her own magic. In addition to the characters of Mr. Claridge and those two girls, I’m curious to know what happened to them?
——-> I would’ve loved to experience this in a dual POV. The third POV was good, it was handled well but I found myself having to reread some portions as I was confused who was being referred to.
——-> As much as I loved Mr. Darkwood’s scenes, I wouldn’t have minded a few less with the repeated descriptions of his gray skin and green eyes. It’s attractive, don’t get me wrong! But, it just felt repetitive and I would’ve liked more description on Cecily so I could picture her better.

Overall, it was a good experience and I’d recommend to someone interested in a regency fantasy. Thank you to the author for this opportunity!

[Jess · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️I am so grateful to have received this ARC from the author⭐️

This was my first experience reading the work of Tamsin Hawthorn, and it absolutely did not disappoint.

I was completely blown away by *Court of Fiends*. I’ve never read a regency fantasy before, and Tamsin’s ability to transport you into that era was honestly mind-blowing. The atmosphere, the etiquette, the tension of London High Society—it all felt so vivid and immersive.

Cecily is our FMC, a young woman who has lost everything and is suddenly forced to navigate the pressures of London society while grieving the loss of her father. Watching her balance expectations, appearances, and heartbreak while discovering that there are beings beyond her world made her such a compelling character to follow.

Then we meet our MMC, Mr. Julius Darkwood. The moment he saves Cecily, everything changes. Their chemistry was one of my favorite parts of this story. The banter between them was so enjoyable, but it was the yearning, the protectiveness, and the way Julius truly understood Cecily that made me fall in love with him. The romance felt emotional and genuine. The spice is minimal, which honestly worked perfectly for their story and was such a refreshing change. The character growth for both of them was beautifully done.

And the Court of Fiends itself? Absolutely fascinating. Experiencing it through Cecily’s perspective and seeing the fiends described in such haunting, vivid detail made the world feel even more immersive. The folklore, magic, and gothic storytelling were beautifully woven together throughout the entire book.

My only complaint? That it wasn't longer. I genuinely wanted more.

So if you enjoy:
✨️Yearning
✨️Fae x Human
✨️Regency Fantasy Romance
✨️Gothic Folklore
✨️Closed Door Romance
✨️3rd Person POV
✨️Star-Crossed Lovers

…then this is definitely a book you’ll want to pick up.

I already know I’ll be reading more from Tamsin Hawthorn in the future ❤️

[Samantha Kasten · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am so grateful to have received an ARC for this one, this story is sweet and wrapped me up in its magical adventure right from the beginning! It follows the story of Cecily as she tackles London society in the wake of a tragedy. The twists and turns of her life bring her glimpses of the existence of magic, and straight into the arms of Mr. Darkwood, himself. Her inner strength and beautiful heart, despite battling her demons (figurative AND literal), drive her actions in a way that makes you root for her from the very beginning. Mr. Darkwood is the perfect gentleman, so it seems, but is brimming with secrets that leave you itching to figure him out.

Tamsin gives us everything: forbidden love, star-crossed lovers, redemption, a bold FMC who’s not scared to risk it all, a broody MMC with a soft heart. She delivers this story in a highly detailed, true to the time-period way of writing that truly is magic in itself, in the way it transports you into the story with the characters. The plot moves quickly, but I never felt as if it was unbelievable or hard to follow. There were moments I could have sunk into a little deeper, leading to my one and only complaint: that this book isn’t longer! I would have swam through 200 more pages to be more immersed in their story and allow the build up to sink its teeth in.

Tamsin is an eloquent author with an immense skill of detailing a world that truly brings it to life before her readers eyes. Her characters are lovable, and clever, and determined, making them so easy to mold into your heart so you feel their every win and loss.

I highly recommend this book for anyone who is looking for: a quick but meaningful read, a period piece with a magical twist, a battle of good versus evil, a great story that keeps you eager for the next paragraph until the very end!

[Shelby Turner · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC of this story and am beyond grateful for the opportunity to be apart of the team.

A Court of Fiends is a compelling read that immediately draws you in with its rich and immersive world-building. From the very first pages, the setting feels vivid and carefully constructed, making it easy to picture every detail and lose yourself in the atmosphere the author has created. The depth of the world adds a strong foundation to the story, giving it a sense of realism even within its more fantastical elements.


The characters are another standout aspect of the book. Each one is well-described, not just physically but emotionally and psychologically, which makes them feel real and relatable. More importantly, they’re genuinely intriguing—each character has layers that unfold as the story progresses, keeping you invested in their journeys and motivations. You’re not just reading about them; you’re trying to understand them.


The storyline itself is well-written and flows smoothly from beginning to end. There’s a natural progression to the plot that makes it easy to follow while still maintaining a sense of anticipation. Nothing feels rushed or out of place, and the pacing allows key moments to have the impact they deserve.


What truly elevates A Court of Fiends, though, is the care and dedication that the author has clearly poured into it. You can tell this wasn’t written hastily—the attention to detail, the consistency in tone, and the thoughtful development of both plot and characters all point to a writer who invested significant time and heart into the story. That level of effort shows on every page, making the book not just enjoyable, but memorable.


Overall, it’s a beautifully crafted story with strong characters, an engaging plot, and a world that feels alive long after you’ve turned the last page.

[K.B. Mallows · Rating 4 out of 5]

4⭐️ What an enchanting tale author Tamsin Hawthorn weaved with Court of Fiends! It was a pleasant mixture of wonder and danger, with a touch of sweet romance weaved in. This little Regency-era portal romance gave me vibes like Bridgerton, with elements of The Spiderwick Chronicles.

In barely 200 pages, Court of Fiends touches on the pressure of social expectations of London high society, loss and grief, longing, political intrigue, self-discovery and the sense of belonging one can find in another.

Though not action-packed, it was highly entertaining, well-plotted and just mysterious enough to keep me guessing. Cecily was a likable main female character with a clear growth arc, while I constantly found myself referring to the perplexing main male character, Mr. Darkwood, as Mr. Darcy in my head (I'm not sad about it!)!

I was deeply enchanted by the descriptions of "the fiends" Cecily encountered once she entered the Court, and I was smiling in pure delight a few times as I read.

Though I enjoyed this little book, I found myself needing (or wanting?) something MORE from it. I wanted more of the Court of Fiends, more of the unusual magic. Every time Cecily came to some conclusion but the "how" wasn't shared with the reader, I wanted to know! I wanted more of Mr. Darkwood, more from the romance, more from the villain - just MORE. That's the best I can explain it.

This is a solid little standalone. If you like a slower paced tale, short and sweet, with a bit of danger and mystery but with a fulfilling conclusion, then you may find Court of Fiends as enchanting as I did.

Thank you to the author for sharing an advanced reader copy of this book with me. This review is my honest opinion, and I'm leaving it voluntarily.

[Amber-thereadingrushmore · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 4.5 Stars

Court of Fiends was my first Regency fantasy romance, and it completely won me over.

This story blends Regency-era society, gothic folklore, and fae magic into a fast-paced read filled with mystery, yearning, and danger. After losing her family, Cecily Leighton is sent to London for the Season, where she is expected to find a husband. Instead, she finds herself tangled in a series of strange events, mysterious creatures, and the enigmatic Julius Darkwood.

One of my favorite aspects of this book was the incorporation of traditional faerie folklore. The magic felt immersive and often unsettling, especially the idea that names hold power. The folklore elements added depth to the world and gave the story a darker, more atmospheric feel than I expected.

I also loved Mr. Darkwood. While rumors and reputation paint him as someone to fear, his actions tell a very different story. He was thoughtful, respectful, and endlessly devoted to Cecily. Their relationship was filled with longing, trust, and emotional tension that kept me invested from beginning to end.

The mystery surrounding the creatures, Cecily’s family, and the secrets hidden beneath London’s glittering social season kept me turning pages. Although the book is relatively short, the world felt much larger than its page count, and I found myself wishing I could spend more time in it.

If you enjoy Regency romance, fae folklore, gothic atmosphere, mystery, and star-crossed lovers, I highly recommend adding Court of Fiends to your TBR.

Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read and review this book!

[Crysta Rae · Rating 2 out of 5]

Thank you to the Author for the opportunity to read. I never take that ability lightly.
My review is based on a ARC from the Author. These are my personal and honest thoughts on the story.

2.5 stars. Minimal spoilers but I do talk about a few.

This book was not for me. I do think there may be some who enjoy the dancing, the quick pass at intimacy and “lady fashion” and etiquette. And the shorter story.
But it was just all around not for me.

I went into the book thinking fiend would be more of a darker play into the romantasy or fantasy world. Instead I was reminded each chapter of the MMC green eyes and grey skin. The proper way a lady should be and the endless balls. I stuck with it toward the end when we got to meet the court of fiends in hopes of more excitement but was just not intrigued. I felt lost to what exactly the plot was and unsure of where we were going.

Over all a book that would normally take me a day to read took me 5 because I just could not stay engaged.

If you like regency, light .5 🌶️ and dancing in a short quick story this could be enjoyable. Sadly this just wasn’t for me. It was lack luster in the tropes I was expecting. Star crossed lovers? No. Yearning? No. Only he understands her? Kind of. I’m not even sure I understood her.

Also around 85% of the way through the book we learned Magic was starting to blossom in the FMC but in the end I just didn’t see the full potential of that.

I appreciated the opportunity, but would not recommend or read again personally.

[Arielle · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️4.5.
🌶 1.5 of 5 - two intimate scenes with vague descriptions.
No strong language.

Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC of your book! This review is based on my own opinions of the book and I was not compensated in any way.

I loved this book! I was drawn in from the very beginning. Think Bridgerton, The Rose Bargain/ The Thorn Queen vibes. We have Reagency era London, Elfs, wicked creatures from another realm and a sprinkle of magic!

The world building was creative and the descriptions of the Court of Fiends and their world was enchanting. I loved the variety of creatures. I enjoyed the aspect of alchemy and magic and how they could be combined.

Our FMC was very endearing and finally not an assassin! She spoke her mind but not in snarky way. I felt like she was growing into her self confidence. I really loved our MMC. He was more subdued rather than grumpy and I liked that. Once he came around to our FMC he was a golden retriever. My only complaint is that his character seemed a little watered down at the end compared to how he was when we met him.

The spice was minimal and vague. The scenes were very tasteful. I do wish that there had been more build up to their courting so we could have had a little more swoon.

Overall, it was a fun read. This was a great standalone story. I wish it had been longer because I loved the world and the characters! The ending could have been drawn out a little more, it seemed a little rushed.

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I gave this book 4.75 stars ⭐

I had the absolute pleasure of reading Court of Fiends early as an ARC, but if I hadn't, this is a book I would have picked up if I found it in a book store or a library. The premise is very interesting and the vibes are impeccable! Think Bridgerton meets The Cruel Prince, and you've got a good sense for the vibes of this story. 

 The author did an amazing job of blending the fantasy and regency genres together in a way that doesn't break the immersion of the story. I love the way that settings and outfits are described in detail, and despite this being a shorter book than most of the ones I read (approx. 200 pages) I never felt like the story was being rushed through or progressing too quickly. Pacing is something I often dislike with shorter books, but that wasn't the case at all with Court of Fiends, which was very impressive for me. The one and only complaint I have was that the beginning of the story felt rather abrupt to me, like it could have benefited from a prologue to help ease me in, but that was very quickly forgotten as I was gripped by the rest of the story. 

This whole story feels like a whirlwind of ballrooms and magic, topped off with a sweet romance, which is exactly what I hoped it would be! I would highly recommend reading Court of Fiends if you are a fan of regency romance and fantasy, it was done really well and I can't wait to go back and read more of Tamsin Hawthorn's catalogue now! 

[Couby · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review of advanced reader copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

This was my first ever regency fantasy romance and I absolutely loved it. I loved the incorporation of traditional faerie lore and how there’s a hint of mystery as well. Definitely recommend this for fans of Bridgerton and A Discovery of Witches!

I’ll start this by saying, I have no idea how Tamsin managed to fit so much in 200 pages… and yet, it didn’t feel rushed. Every word I read made me want to continue reading and forget I have other responsibilities; I could not put this book down!

This book follows Cecily Leighton, who’s been sent to be under her uncle’s care after her entire family has passed away. Labelled as a curse who brings bad luck, she only has one season to find a husband. No sooner as the season started, her uncle disappears and monsters start ravaging London. In comes Mr. Darkwood, a man that everyone seems to fear, and for some reason, Cecily is the only one who can see his pointed ears.

The mystery was done so well in this book; it really keeps the reader guessing. Like why did Cecily’s uncle suddenly disappear? What are those monsters running around London? And just WHAT is Mr. Darkwood? The reveals for each of the mysteries was paced so well, it left me wanting more. I also loved how traditional faerie lore was included into the magic system. We got to see the power a name holds… being able to have complete power over someone simply by using their name. We also got to see a version of the forced fairy dance!

I loved Cecily’s character as well. She was not the damsel in distress that I expected her to be. She’s smart, can defend herself, and most of all, she stays kind despite all the reasons the world gives her to do the opposite. If this doesn’t scream strong FMC, I don’t know what does. I genuinely despised some of the characters so much for looking down on her and ostracizing her.

I also really enjoyed Mr. Darkwood’s character! He was introduced as the typical tall, dark, handsome, and broody MMC, but he became such a sap after falling for Cecily. He literally feeds her by hand, gave his entire fortune to her, and risked his own life to save the people she holds dear. Who could ask for a better man??

Literally the only complaint I had for this book is that it was so short and that it’s a standalone. I want more of Cecily and Mr. Darkwood so badly. Anywho, I’d definitely recommend giving this a go if you love regency fantasy romance with fae, magic, and mystery.

[Leah Hankins · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Court of Fiends by Tamslin Hawthorn was such a sweet and atmospheric fantasy romance, and I’m so grateful to have received an ARC of this story!
Set in London during the spring social season, the story follows Cecily Leighton as she navigates overwhelming grief after the loss of her family while trying to survive under the care of her cold and distant aunt. Cecily’s loneliness and vulnerability felt so real, which made her journey even more emotional and compelling.
Everything changes when she comes face to face with something not quite of her world — and Julius Darkwood steps in to save her. Julius was one of the kind of romantic leads I love reading about: mysterious, protective, and the only person who truly understands Cecily. Their relationship was filled with so much yearning and tension, and the star-crossed lovers aspect made every interaction between them feel meaningful and emotional.
The atmosphere of this book was one of my favorite parts. It perfectly blended historical London society with fantasy elements in a way that felt magical without losing the charm of the story. The romance develops with a softness and ache that kept me completely invested in Cecily and Julius from beginning to end.
If you love cozy Romantasys with emotional depth, yearning, and a touch of danger and mystery, I would definitely recommend picking this one up.

[Jessica · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received an Advanced Reader Copy from the author.

I really enjoyed the mystery elements in the story and the way Cecily matured throughout the story. With that being said because of this being such a short story some of the elements we normally find in world building were lost.

The MMC falls instantly for her and it seems that he fights his feelings, however the focus of the story is on Cecily and leaves you wanting for more understanding on his perspective. There are some commonly known fae elements and some that are more traditional.

It has a lot of references to the classic regency times in which the story takes place, at the same time some parts of the story felt a little rushed to me. I understand that this is a short story however I would have appreciated some further explanation of certain things such as the magic system or Cecily’s magic. Instead of these we are constantly reminded of Mr. Darkwood’s green eyes and gray skin.

When we finally arrive at the Court of Fiends the ending arrives rather quickly and leaves you wanting more of this world that has been mentioned so often in the early stages of the book.

The book is good, and the author did a good job writing most of the story. I wish the book was longer so we could get a more in depth look to the main characters of the story.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨ ARC REVIEW ✨
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This book had me HOOKED from the very beginning — the mystery, the tension, the constant need to know what’s going on… I couldn’t put it down 😩📖

There were so many moments where I was just like ??? 👀 in the BEST way. Every reveal had me more invested, and I loved slowly uncovering the secrets alongside Cecily ✨

And the ROMANCE?? The tension was painful (you know the kind 😭) — I was fully yelling “just kiss already!!” for half the book 💀💋 But the slow burn was absolutely worth it. The chemistry, the longing, the yearning… obsessed.

Cecily is such an intriguing main character, and I really enjoyed watching her grow into herself as the story unfolded. And the MMC?? Protective, intense, and very easy to fall for 🫠❤️

There’s also just enough danger and chaos woven through the story to keep you on edge — I was genuinely stressed at times 😭 but it made the sweeter moments hit even harder 🥹

Tropes you’ll love:
💍 Marriage of convenience
🔥 Slow burn romance
🖤 Protective, slightly morally grey MMC
✨ Secrets & hidden truths
😈 Family drama
💞 “Touch her and you die” vibes

This was an ARC received from the author, and I honestly loved it — I’ll definitely be thinking about this one for a while 🖤✨

[BookDragon_ KSC · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was given this ARC in exchange for my honest review. I liked this one! If you're looking for fast paced, action packed, edge of your seat fantasy...This won't be the book for you. But if you like dark and Gothic, and the slower pace of a historical fiction, that is emotionally charged, this fits that vibe perfectly! I've been reading a lot of high stakes fantasy so this was a great stand alone change of pace. I really loved that it focuses a lot on the traditional view of the fae rather than a more modern take. In this story the fae are tricky, and petty, and really probably should be avoided. And I LOVED that! And there is a side character that is giving side character energy!!! The only thing that's keeping this story from being a five star read for me is it just needs more. There were places where the story just skimmed over events. I wanted to know more details about the magic system because it's really interesting. I wanted to know more about the motivations behind what the fae are up too. I want to learn WITH Cecily when she makes discoveries rather that hear about it after the fact. I feel like it's more of a novella than a novel and if I look at it that way, it's a perfect novella. And if you're looking for a quick read that's a standalone Gothic vibe, I recommend it.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an enjoyable mix of a Regency romance and a fantasy. The story takes place in Regency London during "the season". Cecily did not grow up around the "ton" and is thrown into the season after her father dies and her uncle takes her in. The descriptions of everything is just so beautifully done, from the clothes, to the balls, London, etc. While Cecily is on an outing with her family she gets separated and ends up encountering a otherworldly monster. Mr. Julius Darkwood, a social outcast, saves her. He is awed that she can see both his real self and the monster. After that, Mr. Darkwood is enamored of Cecily and she with him. Let the yearning begin. There is also a mystery and of course the social season intrigue that we come to expect with Regency romances.

I absolutely adored the relationship between Cecily and Mr. Darkwood. They were similar in so many ways and understood each other deeply. It's a shorter book, but so well done that it seems longer. It was all superbly put together by Tasmin Hawthorn.

Fae x Human
Regency Fantasy Romance
Slow burn romance
Protective, slightly morally grey MMC
Star-Crossed Lovers
Marriage of convenience
Family Drama

I'd like to thank the author for allowing me the opportunity to read this ARC.

[Nicole (book_drake on IG) · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨🖤🎭 𝐂𝐎𝐔𝐑𝐓 𝐎𝐅 𝐅𝐈𝐄𝐍𝐃𝐒 🎭🖤✨

Bridgerton… but make it ✨fae✨, gothic, suspiciously dangerous, and filled with yearning so thick you could choke on it 😮‍💨🕯️

This was SUCH a fun quick read!! 💃🏻🖤
Ballrooms, gossip, creepy woods, strange creatures, missing barons, and one broody morally-questionable man lurking around London society? YES PLEASE.

Julius Darkwood walked into this book all dark coats and bad reputation energy and I was immediately like:
🚩🖤 “I can fix him.”
(Respectfully.)

And Cecily?? Smart, grieving, curious, and trying to survive a society that already decided what she should be. I loved her.

The vibes were immaculate:
✨ regency romantasy
🌙 gothic atmosphere
🕯️ fae folklore
💃🏻 tense ballroom dances
🖤 yearning
🌫️ dark fairytale energy

BUT ALSO 👀🔪
There was this eerie undercurrent throughout the story that gave me dark old London / Jack the Ripper vibes… like the kind of tale that makes you jokingly wonder if maybe history never solved those mysteries because the truth was something far more terrifying lurking in the shadows 😏🌫️🩸

Honestly this felt like drinking tea in a haunted manor while a fae lord stares at you from across the ballroom 👀☕✨

If you want something short, magical, romantic, and just a little dangerous… definitely pick this one up 🖤

[Heather Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Court of Fiends by Tamsin Hawthorn was such a beautifully written and immersive read—and one I didn’t want to put down.

From the very beginning, I was completely drawn in by the language and tone. There’s a refined, almost “proper” elegance to the writing that immediately reminded me of Pride and Prejudice—but layered with magic, intrigue, and a darker edge that keeps you turning the pages.

The storytelling flows so effortlessly, pulling you deeper into a world where social expectations, hidden truths, and something more dangerous beneath the surface all collide. I found myself constantly wanting just one more chapter… and then another.

What stood out most to me was how the story balances that classic, almost Regency-style atmosphere with tension, mystery, and emotional depth. It feels familiar in the best way—yet still completely its own.

I can honestly say it left me wanting more. The characters, the world, the slow unfolding of everything… it all lingers with you.

If you love elegant writing, layered storytelling, and a touch of darkness wrapped in a “proper” world—you’re going to fall in love with this one.

[escapepassage · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review of advanced copy received from Author

This book was short, sweet and full of magic. I was obsessed with the regency setting and while in the midst of my Bridgerton withdrawals, this was a balm. The author has a unique ability to connect you with the characters immediately and so you are immersed in the story from the start.

We are introduced to our FMC, Cecily, after she has lost everything and has arrived in London to attend the season with her uncle and his family. While her grieving heart is navigating the cutthroat spring social season, we are introduced to our MMC, Mr. Darkwood, who intrigues our FMC and has a great many secrets of his own. He isn’t the typical MMC we often see in fantasy, he isn’t angry or cruel, more, reserved but protective, would probably be the best way to describe him.

This is a cozy romantasy with SO many amazing tropes. If you love:

🗝️ Regency Fantasy Romance
🗝️ Fae x Human
🗝️ Gothic Folklore
🗝️ Star-Crossed Lovers
🗝️ Yearning (alllll the yearning)

Put this one on your list. I do sincerely wish this had been longer, I didn’t want it to end!

[WhimsicalWildReads (Emily Wilson) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Court of Fiends by Tamsin Hawthorn was such an enjoyable read!

I truly loved everything about this book from the world Tamsin created to the characters she filled it with. Plus the romance was top notch! Cecily is intelligent and quirky. Ilias is kind, a bit mysterious, and will certainly have you swooning! Court of Fiends is a great combination of Bridgerton, but add in a bit of Holly Black’s Tithe.

This was a quick, enjoyable read that I hope you’ll pick up. Yasmin’s writing and plot keep you engaged. I picked up this book and before I knew it I was at the end; satisfied, but wanting more. I look forward to reading more of Tamsin’s books in the future!

TL;DR
🇬🇧 Gives Bridgerton meets Tithe by Holly Black
🧌 Loved the romance, the characters, the world…basically everything
🇬🇧 The writing and the plot keep you engaged
🧌 Ilias will surly have you swooning
🇬🇧 A quick read that I would definitely recommend!

Thank you to Tamsin Hawthorn for this gifted eARC!

P.S. Tamsin is one of the kindest people I know. It has been truly wonderful getting to know and interact with her in and out the group chat the last few weeks!

[PP20501 · Rating 4 out of 5]

4⭐️ this was such a fun book! I feel like I’ve never read a book that was more historical fantasy and so this was really nice to see. You meet Cecily who has just been orphaned and comes to London to live with her uncle and his family. She meets Mr. Darkwood, a strange man with a gray pallor and green eyes, and together they managed to trap some evil forces roaming the streets of London and rescue her uncle who has been abducted. Overtime, Cecily learns more about the fae, and eventually goes to their kingdom when Mr. Darkwood has been trapped by people from his past.

I liked that Cescily turned her mentality around from thinking that people would always leave her, to realizing that love is important, no matter how fleeting. I liked that Darkwood wasn’t your typical broody male, but an actual softy to people who know him well. The romance was really sweet. I liked all the worldbuilding that was put in, I think it described everything really well for how short the book was.

A huge thank you to the author for this ARC copy! My only gripe is that I wish it had been longer😁

Tropes:
📚historical fantasy
🧚‍♀️fae
⚔️mutual saving
❤️‍🔥allies to lovers/marriage of convenience

[Laura La · Rating 5 out of 5]

I went into this expecting something darker because of the fae element, but this turned out to be a much softer, sweeter story that worked really well. The whole book has that polished, high-society feel. There’s tension, but it never overwhelms the tone.

One thing I really appreciated was the writing style. It keeps that older, Regency-inspired language, but it’s still very easy to follow. It feels elevated without ever becoming hard to read, which makes a big difference.

The romance is also on the softer side. The love scenes are there, but they’re written in a more delicate, implied way rather than being explicit, which fits the overall tone of the story.

It’s also a shorter read at around 220 pages, which worked in its favor. It doesn’t get lost in unnecessary details or overly heavy world building.

If you’re going in expecting something dark, this isn’t that. But if you’re in the mood for something sweet, atmospheric, and easy to get lost in, this one delivers.

ARC

[Eternity's Raven · Rating 2 out of 5]

Thank you again to Tamsin Hawthorn for having me on her ARC team, I did really appreciate the chance to read this early. I am leaving this review for free and completely of my own thoughts and opinions.

Sadly, this didn't really vibe with me.

While I thought this book nailed the Regency period with its balls, dialogue and general atmosphere, I found the characters very bland and the romance extremely dry and unbelievable.

This is a very short book at 215 pages, and because of this we don't get much time to sit with the characters or for them to properly learn each other, or us to learn them. It lead to everything feeling very rushed.

The actual Fae element of the book was interesting but the magic wasn't really explored very well and the FMC just seemed to stumble into learning how to do it, through sheer will? Great aptitude? Copious trial and error? IIt wasn't really explained. Which was a shame.

I think this book will work for those who don't mind instant love connections and like quicker reads. It just wasn't for me personally.

[GheridenTheBookBard · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐ 4.5 out of 5 stars
🌶️ 1 out of 5

Court of Fiends was honestly just a whole vibe. Gothic Regency fantasy with creepy old-school fae. So yeah... this was absolutely my kind of read.

Cecily was super easy to root for. She’s trying to survive London society while grieving, dealing with monsters, and some weird magic. Then suddenly there’s Mr. Darkwood being all mysterious and broody. Their whole dynamic worked for me. It built the tension, yearning, quiet little moments… and I actually liked that the romance stayed more emotional than spicy.

Pacing is definitely more on the slower, atmospheric side, but I think it fits the story really well. This isn’t trying to be nonstop action.

The worldbuilding was probably my favorite part though. The fae in this feel dangerous, petty, and kinda unsettling. It felt more folklore-heavy instead of the usual glam fantasy fae, which I loved.

Overall, just a really fun, cozy, gothic-style read. My biggest complaint is honestly that I wanted more pages.

[Missi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was graciously accepted as an ARC reader for this lovely book, and once I sat down to read, I just couldn’t put it down.

For my first Regency-era book, I had such a fun time with this one. I loved the dialogue and the characters, and it gave me vibes of Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, Bridgerton, with a little dash of The Infernal Devices. The writing flowed beautifully and elegantly throughout the story. There were no dull moments, and it kept me fully engaged from beginning to end.

I really liked Cecily. She was delightfully odd in her own way, and it was wonderful watching her blossom and find the courage to stand against the court to save the one she loves.

The only thing that was a little iffy for me is that I tend to enjoy a bit more action and chaos. Not that there wasn’t action in the story, because there definitely was, but I found myself wanting a little more. The ending felt just slightly rushed, and I wish a bit more had happened to make the climax feel even bigger. But all in all, it was a great read, and I thoroughly enjoyed it!

[Katherine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to the Author for providing me an ARC!

I’m giving this book a 3.5 rounded up!

The storytelling in this book is phenomenal. I loved the magical elements, the mysteries and the descriptive settings. I love feeling so immersed into a book you forget you are reading.

In my opinion the romance felt a little rushed at the beginning. I feel like there was attraction and flirtatious conversations and then suddenly they proclaimed their love to one another but I didn’t feel that between them at the time. Later on in the story I could feel their love develop for one another, I just felt like the proclamation came too soon. I did love his romantic gestures towards her and the actions he took to show he cares and loves for her later on.

I did love the side characters as well. I loved her cousin Hugh and the other Fiend characters! They enhanced the story so much.

Overall I did enjoy the story. I enjoyed the romance, the magic and characters!

If you want a fun romantic magical fantasy I would recommend this book! It’s only 200 pages so it’s a quick interesting read!

[eclecticbychoicereads · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a delight Tamsin's Court of Fiends was! A true, utter delight. A novel to sweeten your days and brighten your night. A tale of loss, pain, and hurt, but also a tale of understanding, love, and devotion. Tamsin wove a story of a love found in the most unexpected way, even though it took place during London's Season.

Cecily thought she knew her fate. Thought she knew what awaited her. But she never knew the destiny would come in the form of an enigma of a man trailed by his poor reputation, Julius Darkwood. And Mr. Darkwood never could have imagined where his life on the run would bring him, and who it would bring him to.

These two individuals both felt lost, scorned, and haunted. Both searching for something they didn't know they were missing, and both finding it in one another. A home and a sense of finally belonging.

Thank you, Tamsin, for gifting us this magical story.

And thank you for having me as your ARC reader once again. It's a true honor.