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A Realm of Love and Lies
She reminded me of the thistles that grew wild near Wyndaryn. Beautiful to look at. But spiky. Sharp. I wanted nothing more than to pluck her from this place and watch her bloom.
For the past twenty-five years, Aenan Wyndaryn has lived a shadowed life. Blamed for his sister leaving and for his mother’s death, he harbours a deep-seated guilt, one impressed upon him at an early age. It has shaped how he acts. How he thinks. What sort of male he has become.
Driven by an incessant need to set things right, he finds himself back in the one place he vowed never to return—Avensharn. But when his plans to avenge his sister are waylaid, he sets his sights on a different course of action. One that involves a very prickly female who wants nothing to do with him.
Found in the woods as a newborn babe, Valerian was raised amongst the Dark Fae. Raised to be the perfect female for Vaeyl. The perfect… whore.
She has never known freedom. Never known what it is like to have control over her own self. Over her actions. Over the way she speaks. Dresses. Thinks.
So when Aenan Wyndaryn offers her that freedom, giving her the choice to stay or go, she suddenly finds she has more than one decision to make.
Dare she trust him?
Or is he exactly the same as Vaeyl?
His uncle.
For the past twenty-five years, Aenan Wyndaryn has lived a shadowed life. Blamed for his sister leaving and for his mother’s death, he harbours a deep-seated guilt, one impressed upon him at an early age. It has shaped how he acts. How he thinks. What sort of male he has become.
Driven by an incessant need to set things right, he finds himself back in the one place he vowed never to return—Avensharn. But when his plans to avenge his sister are waylaid, he sets his sights on a different course of action. One that involves a very prickly female who wants nothing to do with him.
Found in the woods as a newborn babe, Valerian was raised amongst the Dark Fae. Raised to be the perfect female for Vaeyl. The perfect… whore.
She has never known freedom. Never known what it is like to have control over her own self. Over her actions. Over the way she speaks. Dresses. Thinks.
So when Aenan Wyndaryn offers her that freedom, giving her the choice to stay or go, she suddenly finds she has more than one decision to make.
Dare she trust him?
Or is he exactly the same as Vaeyl?
His uncle.
First published May 12, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
March 24, 2026
Review of advanced copy recieved from Author.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25 stars
What to expect
✨ Ancient Prophecy
✨ Fated Mates
✨ Found Family
✨ Emotionally damaged FMC and MMC
✨ Fae Courts and Kingdoms
✨ Light vs Dark
✨ Shifters and Fae
✨ Spice
Yep this book was so good. I enjoyed book one but this one was even better.
I love the FMC Valerian, she is such a lethal badass! She was raised amongst the Dark Fae. She has never had control over her life or any decisions. All she wants is to make her own choices.
The character growth for Valerian was phenomenal!
Our MMC Aenan didn’t have the perfect start to life either. Blamed for things he couldn’t control. He feels the need to set everything right all the time.
I loved seeing Rowan and Caelan in parts of this book. I love these characters from book 1.
We also got a few new characters, I loved Gaell, his personality was so fun and I found myself giggling at the things he said. His interactions with Orrick were soo good!
I wasn’t sure where this book was going but boy did we go on an adventure in this book and I loved seeing different parts of this amazing world.
The yearning and spice was just the perfect amount.
We have lies and betrayals that break your heart!
That ending though wow!!!!! 🤯
Left on a cliff hanger for book 3!
Can’t wait to see what the author brings for the next one.
Highly recommend!
Thank you to the Author and BookSirens for sending me this ARC copy.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25 stars
What to expect
✨ Ancient Prophecy
✨ Fated Mates
✨ Found Family
✨ Emotionally damaged FMC and MMC
✨ Fae Courts and Kingdoms
✨ Light vs Dark
✨ Shifters and Fae
✨ Spice
Yep this book was so good. I enjoyed book one but this one was even better.
I love the FMC Valerian, she is such a lethal badass! She was raised amongst the Dark Fae. She has never had control over her life or any decisions. All she wants is to make her own choices.
The character growth for Valerian was phenomenal!
Our MMC Aenan didn’t have the perfect start to life either. Blamed for things he couldn’t control. He feels the need to set everything right all the time.
I loved seeing Rowan and Caelan in parts of this book. I love these characters from book 1.
We also got a few new characters, I loved Gaell, his personality was so fun and I found myself giggling at the things he said. His interactions with Orrick were soo good!
I wasn’t sure where this book was going but boy did we go on an adventure in this book and I loved seeing different parts of this amazing world.
The yearning and spice was just the perfect amount.
We have lies and betrayals that break your heart!
That ending though wow!!!!! 🤯
Left on a cliff hanger for book 3!
Can’t wait to see what the author brings for the next one.
Highly recommend!
Thank you to the Author and BookSirens for sending me this ARC copy.
April 19, 2026
This series seriously has me hooked. The fae world feels really fresh, the characters have depth and the plot twists? Yeah, those hit hard.
Book 1 was great but book 2 is where it really got me. Valerian… she is so unpredictable in the best way in my eyes. She is mysterious, layered and constantly keeping you guessing. And Gaell?? A lion shifter with the calmest, sweetest energy…. I’m obsessed. He balances out the chaos perfectly in my opinion and I’ve never read about a lion shifter before.
And that ending… another cliffhanger?! I’m not okay. I need book 3 immediately.
Book 1 was great but book 2 is where it really got me. Valerian… she is so unpredictable in the best way in my eyes. She is mysterious, layered and constantly keeping you guessing. And Gaell?? A lion shifter with the calmest, sweetest energy…. I’m obsessed. He balances out the chaos perfectly in my opinion and I’ve never read about a lion shifter before.
And that ending… another cliffhanger?! I’m not okay. I need book 3 immediately.
April 8, 2026
Absolutely GOBSMACKED. Send me book 3 before I fall clean off this cliffhanger 🙂↕️
ARC| okay so I’ve been a fan of The Fae of Caledonia series from the BEGINNING! And let me tell you book 2 doesn’t disappoint. If anything the plot twist got me feeling type of way & the WORLD BUILDING IS UNMATCHED !
To say I’m deeply invested in all the character is putting it mildly.
ARC| okay so I’ve been a fan of The Fae of Caledonia series from the BEGINNING! And let me tell you book 2 doesn’t disappoint. If anything the plot twist got me feeling type of way & the WORLD BUILDING IS UNMATCHED !
To say I’m deeply invested in all the character is putting it mildly.
March 13, 2026
I am just speechless. I had so much fun reading this and getting to watch as such a beautiful story grows. This fae realm is unlike any other that i’ve read. The characters each have such unique personalities and their backgrounds are all so well drawn out in this story. If you want to follow along in a multi-part fantasy series with fae, shifters, and much more then you have to check out this wonderful author!
Book one was phenomenal, but the characters in book two are what sold me. From the jump, I fell in love with Valerian and her mysterious nature. She always had me on my toes, but she had so much character development that I couldn’t help but love her. ✨
Then we have Gaell, our sweet beloved Gaell. He is the first lion shifter i’ve read about, and I don’t know if I want to be him or be with him?!? He was so lovely and was the perfect touch to ease the tension that was felt in this book. He was such a calm spirit, I loved him so much! 🤍
We have another cliff hanger, which is fineee…but I need book 3 like, yesterday. The twists in this book were so good but also had me wanting to rip my hair out! 😂
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Book one was phenomenal, but the characters in book two are what sold me. From the jump, I fell in love with Valerian and her mysterious nature. She always had me on my toes, but she had so much character development that I couldn’t help but love her. ✨
Then we have Gaell, our sweet beloved Gaell. He is the first lion shifter i’ve read about, and I don’t know if I want to be him or be with him?!? He was so lovely and was the perfect touch to ease the tension that was felt in this book. He was such a calm spirit, I loved him so much! 🤍
We have another cliff hanger, which is fineee…but I need book 3 like, yesterday. The twists in this book were so good but also had me wanting to rip my hair out! 😂
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
May 5, 2026
Thank you to the author for the chance to read this early as an ARC 🤍
A Realm of Love and Lies is set in the same world as book 1 but focuses on a different set of lead characters (but we do still get some interactions with the main characters of book 1 which I enjoyed). The author has done a great job immersing the readers in the world and we start to get a little more political intrigue in book 2. We also get to explore the prophecy from book 1 and unravel it more in this book.
It was refreshing to see a flawed MMC and FMC and how they navigated their own personal histories when it came to developing a relationship. I also enjoyed that this book had our characters on the move - it almost had a D&D adventure feel to it which I really liked!
I also loved meeting a new character in this book, Gaell. He added a good balance to the MMC and FMC and truly stole the show in my eyes. I need a whole Gaell book 😂 But his character was an awesome contrast to the MMC and I’m excited to see where the plot is going in subsequent books.
Overall, this book, like the 1st, is a great vibe read! It’s a fun world to dive into and the magic system is very interesting to learn more about! Looking forward to continuing this series!
A Realm of Love and Lies is set in the same world as book 1 but focuses on a different set of lead characters (but we do still get some interactions with the main characters of book 1 which I enjoyed). The author has done a great job immersing the readers in the world and we start to get a little more political intrigue in book 2. We also get to explore the prophecy from book 1 and unravel it more in this book.
It was refreshing to see a flawed MMC and FMC and how they navigated their own personal histories when it came to developing a relationship. I also enjoyed that this book had our characters on the move - it almost had a D&D adventure feel to it which I really liked!
I also loved meeting a new character in this book, Gaell. He added a good balance to the MMC and FMC and truly stole the show in my eyes. I need a whole Gaell book 😂 But his character was an awesome contrast to the MMC and I’m excited to see where the plot is going in subsequent books.
Overall, this book, like the 1st, is a great vibe read! It’s a fun world to dive into and the magic system is very interesting to learn more about! Looking forward to continuing this series!
March 14, 2026
I’m forever proud to be part of Jade’s street team, which comes with the amazing perk of getting my hands on this as an ARC.
I couldn’t wait to jump back into this world, and it honestly gave me even more than I expected. We follow a character we briefly met in the first book, but this time we get so much more of her story and perspective. Rowan and our beloved Caelan are still around, though we don’t see quite as much of them in this installment.
The world building expands beautifully, and we get deeper character development from several of the other players introduced in the first book. We also meet some… very memorable new characters. Some very hot, ahem, I mean, beautiful men (wink wink, if you know, you know).
My only disappointment? That absolutely brutal cliffhanger at the end. Now comes the painful wait for book three.
I truly love this series and this author, and I will happily keep shouting about both Jade and these books to anyone who will listen. 📚
I couldn’t wait to jump back into this world, and it honestly gave me even more than I expected. We follow a character we briefly met in the first book, but this time we get so much more of her story and perspective. Rowan and our beloved Caelan are still around, though we don’t see quite as much of them in this installment.
The world building expands beautifully, and we get deeper character development from several of the other players introduced in the first book. We also meet some… very memorable new characters. Some very hot, ahem, I mean, beautiful men (wink wink, if you know, you know).
My only disappointment? That absolutely brutal cliffhanger at the end. Now comes the painful wait for book three.
I truly love this series and this author, and I will happily keep shouting about both Jade and these books to anyone who will listen. 📚
April 17, 2026
It has been great to get back into this world and get to know Aedion and Valerian more! I loved uncovering more pieces of the overall story and their lives from book 1, Valerian’s knowledge and take on things is interesting and so relatable as a human.
It was great to see Aedion so confident and in control but also be an absolute sweetheart with how he takes his time with her. Their relationship progression is natural and realistic, and sexy!
The author does a great job of making you feel as Valerian does, there were times when I wanted different paths and outcomes for Valerian than she was heading towards and I think my views changed as hers did.
I enjoyed meeting new characters in this book (Gaell is my favourite!) and I can’t wait to see more.
The twists were great, with the way it was going I was worried how we would leave the characters in this book but I’m happy with the ending as it currently is. Can’t wait to wrap up everything in book 3, there’s still so much to happen!
It was great to see Aedion so confident and in control but also be an absolute sweetheart with how he takes his time with her. Their relationship progression is natural and realistic, and sexy!
The author does a great job of making you feel as Valerian does, there were times when I wanted different paths and outcomes for Valerian than she was heading towards and I think my views changed as hers did.
I enjoyed meeting new characters in this book (Gaell is my favourite!) and I can’t wait to see more.
The twists were great, with the way it was going I was worried how we would leave the characters in this book but I’m happy with the ending as it currently is. Can’t wait to wrap up everything in book 3, there’s still so much to happen!
April 28, 2026
I loved every moment of this book! I found myself highlighting and bookmarking so many favourite scenes, it was that amazing. Honestly it had me excited to find out what would happen next, with so many twists and turns. I finished it in a day because I couldn't just stop and put the book down to return to later, I just had to know how it ended. The ending was sooo good, it linked in with the cliffhanger from the first book and basically connected all the dots. I was shocked with the reveal at the end but equally thrilled, making me super keen for the next book.
I loved Aenan and Valerian together but also just wished for Valerian to work through her emotions she had locked away, the way she was brought up was absolutely horrible. I loved the friendship Valerian had with Orick and Gaell, they were so wholesome and I enjoyed the way they teased eachother. I just hope in the next book Aenan and Valerian can work through their problems, I'm rooting for them to end up together.
I loved Aenan and Valerian together but also just wished for Valerian to work through her emotions she had locked away, the way she was brought up was absolutely horrible. I loved the friendship Valerian had with Orick and Gaell, they were so wholesome and I enjoyed the way they teased eachother. I just hope in the next book Aenan and Valerian can work through their problems, I'm rooting for them to end up together.
April 27, 2026
A Realm of Love and Lies has an absolute JAW DROPPING CLIFFHANGER. I adore the Fae of Caeldonia series so much, and book two is absolute PERFECTION. Valerian and Aenan are amazing together and I absolutely love their dynamic. Valerian, especially, has quickly become one of my favourite FMCs of all time. She is amazing to read about and her resiliency is everything. Aenan is such a sweetheart, and I can't choose between him and Caelan AHHHHHH. The banter between Orick and Gaell is definitely a highlight as well, I absolutely adore Gaell! He is so fun to read about. Also, can we have a minute for the FANTASTIC world building? It is written so well! I love learning more about the world and the magick that it has as well. Thank you so much JA Chapman for providing me with an ARC to review! I can't wait for more!
April 13, 2026
4.5****
WOW. This book answered many questions I had after finishing the first one, but now I have a million NEW QUESTIONS.
Where book 1 didn't end in a crazy cliffhanger...this one DOES. OH BOY IT DOES.
If you love fated mates but thought the rate of acceptance was too quick in book 1, strap in. Our girl Valerian is FIGHTING. The banter? Perfection. Her journey? Just incredible. Her strength and spirit? I am in love.
I think I felt every emotion through this book. Happiness, sadness, heartbreak, betrayal, utter disgust (looking at you, Vaeyl), giddiness, shock, anger, worry, literally everything.
Thank you to JA Chapman for the opportunity to read this ahead of publication! I am leaving this review voluntarily.
WOW. This book answered many questions I had after finishing the first one, but now I have a million NEW QUESTIONS.
Where book 1 didn't end in a crazy cliffhanger...this one DOES. OH BOY IT DOES.
If you love fated mates but thought the rate of acceptance was too quick in book 1, strap in. Our girl Valerian is FIGHTING. The banter? Perfection. Her journey? Just incredible. Her strength and spirit? I am in love.
I think I felt every emotion through this book. Happiness, sadness, heartbreak, betrayal, utter disgust (looking at you, Vaeyl), giddiness, shock, anger, worry, literally everything.
Thank you to JA Chapman for the opportunity to read this ahead of publication! I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 22, 2026
A Realm Of Loves and Lies ARC Review.
I was fortunate enough to be gifted this ARC in return for my honest review. I'm already a big fan of The Fae of Caeldonia series from book 1, and book 2 delivered!
We follow different characters adventures this book, Aenan and Valerian, who we meet in book 1 but whose POV were not explored. There was so much to learn about both of them and as the story moves along we have so many ah ha moments.
There is spice, but again it doesn't overpower the storyline, it actually compliments it very well.
My only gripe is that book 3 is not out yet. And with that cliffhanger I NEED to know what happens next!
I was fortunate enough to be gifted this ARC in return for my honest review. I'm already a big fan of The Fae of Caeldonia series from book 1, and book 2 delivered!
We follow different characters adventures this book, Aenan and Valerian, who we meet in book 1 but whose POV were not explored. There was so much to learn about both of them and as the story moves along we have so many ah ha moments.
There is spice, but again it doesn't overpower the storyline, it actually compliments it very well.
My only gripe is that book 3 is not out yet. And with that cliffhanger I NEED to know what happens next!
May 4, 2026
Man oh man. At first this book was a slow go for me, but then I couldn't put it down. I loved the book once it got going for me. I do think there were a lot of similarities to the first book, but honestly that didn't bother me in the least. This book does end on a cliffhanger so be prepared for that. The push and pull of the FMC and the MMC I am here for. I like that she is strong even going through all that she has gone through. I am excited to read the next book and see where this story leads. I loved the edition of these new characters too.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 7, 2026
ARC review
I am so glad I read this book! I read the first one and liked it, but I loved this one!
Our main FMC Valerian is raised with the evil dark fae and she is treated horribly by them. (This book brings up some darker themes but it is written in a way that brings the correct emotions and is not graphic).
Our main MMC Aenan, also has some demons from his past that he wrestles with.
I love their relationship and the fact that it hasn’t been a walk in the park. There is growth on both parts and I am excited to see what happens with them in the third installment.
I also love some of the hints we are getting about the fae world and can’t wait to see more revelations of the prophecy.
Plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I am so glad I read this book! I read the first one and liked it, but I loved this one!
Our main FMC Valerian is raised with the evil dark fae and she is treated horribly by them. (This book brings up some darker themes but it is written in a way that brings the correct emotions and is not graphic).
Our main MMC Aenan, also has some demons from his past that he wrestles with.
I love their relationship and the fact that it hasn’t been a walk in the park. There is growth on both parts and I am excited to see what happens with them in the third installment.
I also love some of the hints we are getting about the fae world and can’t wait to see more revelations of the prophecy.
Plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 3, 2026
I was lucky enough to be an ARC READER for this book (my first ARC read), and I have NOTES… 💫
I have fallen more and more in love with the fantasy realm because of this book !!
JA Chapman has written up a world that’s too special to put down, characters that are so well written I could see them and felt myself getting to know and love them, the relationships were so precious, I could go on and on.
I’ve already suggested this series to my sister in law and can’t WAIT for future books, I’m hooked !!
Incredible,
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I have fallen more and more in love with the fantasy realm because of this book !!
JA Chapman has written up a world that’s too special to put down, characters that are so well written I could see them and felt myself getting to know and love them, the relationships were so precious, I could go on and on.
I’ve already suggested this series to my sister in law and can’t WAIT for future books, I’m hooked !!
Incredible,
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
March 24, 2026
This was everything I was wanting it to be. I enjoyed the first book but felt it lacked some in character development and world development. The second book was fantastic. I loved the interactions between Valerian and Aenan. I loved their dialogue. The banter between Orick and Valerian and Gaell. I was absolutely immersed in their world. Thank you JA Chapman for allowing me to ARC read this book. It was wonderful and I cannot wait for what’s to come!
May 3, 2026
Fair to say I crammed this ARC, as an avid fantasy reader this hit all the spots, but why oh why did it need to be such a cliff hanger!
Thank you so much for letting me be apart of your world, can’t wait for the next instalment.
Thank you so much for letting me be apart of your world, can’t wait for the next instalment.
May 15, 2026
I had the privilege of reading this as an ARC. Thank you to JA Chapman for giving me the opportunity.
This was an amazing continuation from book 1. The focus is on a different set of characters and I absolutely loved their storyline. So many little nuggets that have me wondering where things will go in the next book. I have all sorts of theories but I’ll have to wait and see. The representation of trauma and healing is done extremely well in both Books 1&2, giving voice to the survivors.
“She reminded me of the thistles that grew wild near Wyndaryn. Beautiful to look at. But spiky. Sharp. I wanted nothing more than to pluck her from this place and watch her bloom”
Anxiously awaiting book 3.
This was an amazing continuation from book 1. The focus is on a different set of characters and I absolutely loved their storyline. So many little nuggets that have me wondering where things will go in the next book. I have all sorts of theories but I’ll have to wait and see. The representation of trauma and healing is done extremely well in both Books 1&2, giving voice to the survivors.
“She reminded me of the thistles that grew wild near Wyndaryn. Beautiful to look at. But spiky. Sharp. I wanted nothing more than to pluck her from this place and watch her bloom”
Anxiously awaiting book 3.
March 13, 2026
😍😍😍😍😍
I was a Cal girl but now I’m totally Aenan 🤤
I was an ARC reader for this!
I loved the first book and couldn’t wait to get my hands on the second book to be reunited with my book boyfriend (Cal.) I know he missed me…
But uhhhhh I have a confession I may have switched 🤷♀️
Where on earth can I find men like this… I will take 10 please…
Also the bestie! I need one of those! Good ol Orick! He’s someone you need in your corner.
I grew to dislike someone very soon to then realise that maybe… just maybe I was a little harsh and judged too soon… when you read you will understand… I said some harsh words about her to realise she just misunderstood and she is just surviving the only way she knows how. Whether that is betraying the people who actually care for her for a good for nothing selfish, narcissistic man… who thinks he’s gods gift but in reality he’s just a parasite no one wants… (Jade don’t hate me.) 😅😅😅
Still Very much dislike Vayel… I mean who would good for nothing so and so…
But we meet new people, with new powers! On a journey to help save the kingdoms!
New bonds… 😍😍😍 new characters which you will fall in love with!
Lies, betrayal, new emotions and feelings…
Having your heart skip a beat and feeling heart broken and very conflicted 😅 whether it was out of love, out of spite or just didn’t know what he was doing from the start but lost everything…. Lost his love (it’s ok… you can have me instead.) 😅
But what’s with the cliffhanger again! 😅
100% recommend this book but be prepared to still not know everything from the first book so now you are sat here waiting for book 3…
I was a Cal girl but now I’m totally Aenan 🤤
I was an ARC reader for this!
I loved the first book and couldn’t wait to get my hands on the second book to be reunited with my book boyfriend (Cal.) I know he missed me…
But uhhhhh I have a confession I may have switched 🤷♀️
Where on earth can I find men like this… I will take 10 please…
Also the bestie! I need one of those! Good ol Orick! He’s someone you need in your corner.
I grew to dislike someone very soon to then realise that maybe… just maybe I was a little harsh and judged too soon… when you read you will understand… I said some harsh words about her to realise she just misunderstood and she is just surviving the only way she knows how. Whether that is betraying the people who actually care for her for a good for nothing selfish, narcissistic man… who thinks he’s gods gift but in reality he’s just a parasite no one wants… (Jade don’t hate me.) 😅😅😅
Still Very much dislike Vayel… I mean who would good for nothing so and so…
But we meet new people, with new powers! On a journey to help save the kingdoms!
New bonds… 😍😍😍 new characters which you will fall in love with!
Lies, betrayal, new emotions and feelings…
Having your heart skip a beat and feeling heart broken and very conflicted 😅 whether it was out of love, out of spite or just didn’t know what he was doing from the start but lost everything…. Lost his love (it’s ok… you can have me instead.) 😅
But what’s with the cliffhanger again! 😅
100% recommend this book but be prepared to still not know everything from the first book so now you are sat here waiting for book 3…
April 3, 2026
Addictive, emotional, and utterly unforgettable
A Realm of Love and Lies completely consumed me from beginning to end—and honestly, I’m still not over it. Having been lucky enough to read both books as an ARC reader, I feel so grateful to have experienced this story early, because it’s one that deserves all the hype.
This book delivers everything I want in a romantasy: high stakes, intense emotion, layered characters, and a romance that aches in the best possible way. The tension—both romantic and plot-driven—was absolutely flawless. Every glance, every betrayal, every moment of vulnerability felt earned and impactful.
What stood out most to me was how deeply I connected to the characters. They’re messy, complex, and beautifully written, making their journeys feel incredibly real. The push and pull between love and deception is handled so well, and it kept me constantly questioning motives and loyalties.
The world-building expands in such a satisfying way too. It feels rich without being overwhelming, and there’s always this sense that something bigger is unfolding beneath the surface. I was completely immersed.
And that emotional payoff? It hit hard. The kind of story that leaves you staring at the wall after finishing, trying to process everything you just felt.
If I had to say anything at all, it’s only that I wish I could read it again for the first time.
This is a must-read for fans of romantic fantasy filled with angst, betrayal, and heart-wrenching love. I’m already desperate for more from this world.
A Realm of Love and Lies completely consumed me from beginning to end—and honestly, I’m still not over it. Having been lucky enough to read both books as an ARC reader, I feel so grateful to have experienced this story early, because it’s one that deserves all the hype.
This book delivers everything I want in a romantasy: high stakes, intense emotion, layered characters, and a romance that aches in the best possible way. The tension—both romantic and plot-driven—was absolutely flawless. Every glance, every betrayal, every moment of vulnerability felt earned and impactful.
What stood out most to me was how deeply I connected to the characters. They’re messy, complex, and beautifully written, making their journeys feel incredibly real. The push and pull between love and deception is handled so well, and it kept me constantly questioning motives and loyalties.
The world-building expands in such a satisfying way too. It feels rich without being overwhelming, and there’s always this sense that something bigger is unfolding beneath the surface. I was completely immersed.
And that emotional payoff? It hit hard. The kind of story that leaves you staring at the wall after finishing, trying to process everything you just felt.
If I had to say anything at all, it’s only that I wish I could read it again for the first time.
This is a must-read for fans of romantic fantasy filled with angst, betrayal, and heart-wrenching love. I’m already desperate for more from this world.
May 9, 2026
Arc review:
Book two genuinely took me by surprise, enough that i finished it in one siting- with snacks prepared. Valerian and Aenan together? Obsessed. Their dynamic is everything, and while Valerian isn’t one of my all-time favourite FMCs, I really did love her character. She’s resilient, unpredictable, and so layered that I was constantly trying to figure her out. She completely keeps you guessing the entire time and i love me some complex characters.
The world building expands so beautifully in this book and feels even more immersive than the first. We get deeper development from returning characters, while also meeting some very memorable new ones. I also really loved that both the MMC and FMC were flawed, their relationship felt so much more real because of the way they had to navigate their own personal histories and struggles together.
And then Gael. wow. I absolutely adored him. He was such a great addition to the story and brought such a comforting, sweet energy to the book. He really balanced out a lot of the tension perfectly and added a softer presence amongst everything happening.
This book massively exceeded my expectations in every way. The characters, the romance, the emotional depth, the phenomenal world building… genuinely unforgettable, id recommend this everytime
Book two genuinely took me by surprise, enough that i finished it in one siting- with snacks prepared. Valerian and Aenan together? Obsessed. Their dynamic is everything, and while Valerian isn’t one of my all-time favourite FMCs, I really did love her character. She’s resilient, unpredictable, and so layered that I was constantly trying to figure her out. She completely keeps you guessing the entire time and i love me some complex characters.
The world building expands so beautifully in this book and feels even more immersive than the first. We get deeper development from returning characters, while also meeting some very memorable new ones. I also really loved that both the MMC and FMC were flawed, their relationship felt so much more real because of the way they had to navigate their own personal histories and struggles together.
And then Gael. wow. I absolutely adored him. He was such a great addition to the story and brought such a comforting, sweet energy to the book. He really balanced out a lot of the tension perfectly and added a softer presence amongst everything happening.
This book massively exceeded my expectations in every way. The characters, the romance, the emotional depth, the phenomenal world building… genuinely unforgettable, id recommend this everytime
March 25, 2026
What an ending!!
The second book in The Fae of Caeldonia series follows a different FMC/MMC than the first book, as an interconnected partner to the first. We had met Valerian and Aenan in the first book, and this book continues their story as we see the battle between Light and Dark Fae intensify.
There is a lot of dark elements of SA (off page) and torture, so know prior that this is a dark romantasy. These elements were not gratuitous and were essential to the character and plot development.
This book spent a lot more time with world and magick development, and I can tell that we will see even more in the next one! I am not someone who enjoys dual timelines, so I really enjoyed the use of dreams and dream walking as a way of developing backstory without actual chapters of time leaps. This story is prophecy heavy and I appreciated that we saw other facets to the prophecy here from what we were led to believe was the meaning in Book 1.
The introduction of a whole new cast of characters in this book was really enjoyable (shifters, anyone??), and I am alllll the way in love with Gaell!
We see the human/fae realm portals come into play again, and one big plot twist to end it! I'm on pins and needles for Book 3!
The second book in The Fae of Caeldonia series follows a different FMC/MMC than the first book, as an interconnected partner to the first. We had met Valerian and Aenan in the first book, and this book continues their story as we see the battle between Light and Dark Fae intensify.
There is a lot of dark elements of SA (off page) and torture, so know prior that this is a dark romantasy. These elements were not gratuitous and were essential to the character and plot development.
This book spent a lot more time with world and magick development, and I can tell that we will see even more in the next one! I am not someone who enjoys dual timelines, so I really enjoyed the use of dreams and dream walking as a way of developing backstory without actual chapters of time leaps. This story is prophecy heavy and I appreciated that we saw other facets to the prophecy here from what we were led to believe was the meaning in Book 1.
The introduction of a whole new cast of characters in this book was really enjoyable (shifters, anyone??), and I am alllll the way in love with Gaell!
We see the human/fae realm portals come into play again, and one big plot twist to end it! I'm on pins and needles for Book 3!
May 15, 2026
The second book in this series I loved! There’s more Scottish folklore, mythical creatures.. we get to meet Gaell who is an absolute treasure and a great friend to our leading lady! The romance was great and the spicy scenes were spicy 🌶️ it’s action packed and adventurous, some parts I was almost tearing up because some scenes just really hit my feelings! You can feel the betrayals and the love and hate in this book because it’s so well written! That ending though! Wow did not see that coming! I can’t wait for book 3!!
If you haven’t read this book then you need to add it to your TBR or buy it, which I am going to do for my trophy shelf!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Thank you J Chapman for the ARC read!
If you haven’t read this book then you need to add it to your TBR or buy it, which I am going to do for my trophy shelf!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Thank you J Chapman for the ARC read!
March 20, 2026
*** ARC read ***
Well….how rude to end on a cliff hanger like that 😂
I liked book 1 but book 2 is better, a darker atmosphere and more grit to it.
The story went in different directions to what I expected and I loved reading in the dual POVs as well as the snippets of Rowan and Cael from book 1.
We have angst, trauma, yearning, spice, secrets and mysteries and a beautiful new world of Fae, along with some wonderful side characters, Gael and Orrick who you just can't help but love.
My reason for 4 stars and not 5 is the odd chapter I read I felt like I just wanted to skip it and get on with the story but that's just my impatience 😂
Well….how rude to end on a cliff hanger like that 😂
I liked book 1 but book 2 is better, a darker atmosphere and more grit to it.
The story went in different directions to what I expected and I loved reading in the dual POVs as well as the snippets of Rowan and Cael from book 1.
We have angst, trauma, yearning, spice, secrets and mysteries and a beautiful new world of Fae, along with some wonderful side characters, Gael and Orrick who you just can't help but love.
My reason for 4 stars and not 5 is the odd chapter I read I felt like I just wanted to skip it and get on with the story but that's just my impatience 😂
March 17, 2026
One thing I loved about this book is the adventure aspect—the travel and the characters. I really enjoyed the new character introduced, and the banter between them was hilarious.
My only complaint was the excessive amount of winking… do these people need an eye check? lol.
That aside, I really enjoyed this book. I think the writing was spot on for the genre, and I totally understood the FMC’s emotions. I also felt like people ( a certain MMC) needed to be more considerate of who she is and what she’s been through.
I really, really want the next book now!
My only complaint was the excessive amount of winking… do these people need an eye check? lol.
That aside, I really enjoyed this book. I think the writing was spot on for the genre, and I totally understood the FMC’s emotions. I also felt like people ( a certain MMC) needed to be more considerate of who she is and what she’s been through.
I really, really want the next book now!
March 20, 2026
Book 2 did not disappoint! Thank you for JA Chapman for the ARC of A Realm of Love and Lies. I loved that this explored other characters from book one and explored other places in the realm. There was more development on the politics of this world, building up for the next book. I loved the way that the main characters relationship development throughout the book… and the ending!!!!! Can’t wait to find out what happens next!
If you are looking for your next read and love:
- Fated Mates
- Magick
-Prophecies and Curses
-Good vs Evil
-Portal Fantasy
-Secret Identity
- and Found Family
This series is for you!
If you are looking for your next read and love:
- Fated Mates
- Magick
-Prophecies and Curses
-Good vs Evil
-Portal Fantasy
-Secret Identity
- and Found Family
This series is for you!
May 6, 2026
4⭐️ - This book does not suffer the 2nd book slump! This was such a good time filled with some unexpected twists! We met Valerian and Aenan in the first book so I was ready for their story. I was not disappointed!
I really enjoyed getting Aenan and Valerian’s respect backstories. Knowing where they came from and what they had to overcome made me appreciate them both even more. They both had so much growth.
The world building is amazing! We meet new side characters that made this story even better. Plus, we get to see some favorites from the first book.
The ENDING though. I need the next book now. The biggest twist/reveal and I don’t know what to do! I hope we’re not left waiting to long to find out what happens next! I will definitely be continuing this series!!!
Thanks to BookSirens and the author for the ARC!
I really enjoyed getting Aenan and Valerian’s respect backstories. Knowing where they came from and what they had to overcome made me appreciate them both even more. They both had so much growth.
The world building is amazing! We meet new side characters that made this story even better. Plus, we get to see some favorites from the first book.
The ENDING though. I need the next book now. The biggest twist/reveal and I don’t know what to do! I hope we’re not left waiting to long to find out what happens next! I will definitely be continuing this series!!!
Thanks to BookSirens and the author for the ARC!
May 15, 2026
🦋🦋🦋 A Realm of Love & Lies 🦋🦋🦋
🦋 Ancient Prophecies
🦋 Good vs Evil
🦋 Reluctant Fated Mates
🦋 Fae / Shifters
🦋 Secret Identities
Spice: 🌶🌶
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book is action packed right down to the very last word! The plot twists are everywhere, and you cant trust what you think you know, so many secrets are locked away in Vals past that have yet to be revealed and THAT betrayal?! I have all the questions about it!! Roll on book 3 asap please.
Aenan's opening line..."I was f*cked. Well and truly f*cked." and well yeah you kind of are aren't ya. I cannot wait to see what is next for Aenan, we know he's fot a difficult road ahead I am dying to see how it all plays out because he is in for one hell of a journey.
My heart breaks for everything Valerian has been through, she is so strong and vulnerable in equal measures and if anyone ever deserved a HEA it's her. I love Rowan and Valerian together, they are like a pair of naughty school girls gossiping and causing mischief. The relationship she develops with Orick and Gaell are so lovely to read and help breath a bit of humour into her tumultuous circumstances. Realm Reaper might be my favourite nickname from Orick!
Jade did it again! We love a good bath scene in this series and with a waterfall as your backdrop it would be rude not to.
I said it after A Realm of Myst and Dreams but I would really enjoy a Valeyn POV chapter or two. He is a villian thats just so easy to hate.
This book hits so differently the second read through, there are so many little details you miss on the first read. I love getting lost in this world and the characters, this series is so well written, each book leaves you craving the next one.
🦋 Ancient Prophecies
🦋 Good vs Evil
🦋 Reluctant Fated Mates
🦋 Fae / Shifters
🦋 Secret Identities
Spice: 🌶🌶
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book is action packed right down to the very last word! The plot twists are everywhere, and you cant trust what you think you know, so many secrets are locked away in Vals past that have yet to be revealed and THAT betrayal?! I have all the questions about it!! Roll on book 3 asap please.
Aenan's opening line..."I was f*cked. Well and truly f*cked." and well yeah you kind of are aren't ya. I cannot wait to see what is next for Aenan, we know he's fot a difficult road ahead I am dying to see how it all plays out because he is in for one hell of a journey.
My heart breaks for everything Valerian has been through, she is so strong and vulnerable in equal measures and if anyone ever deserved a HEA it's her. I love Rowan and Valerian together, they are like a pair of naughty school girls gossiping and causing mischief. The relationship she develops with Orick and Gaell are so lovely to read and help breath a bit of humour into her tumultuous circumstances. Realm Reaper might be my favourite nickname from Orick!
Jade did it again! We love a good bath scene in this series and with a waterfall as your backdrop it would be rude not to.
I said it after A Realm of Myst and Dreams but I would really enjoy a Valeyn POV chapter or two. He is a villian thats just so easy to hate.
This book hits so differently the second read through, there are so many little details you miss on the first read. I love getting lost in this world and the characters, this series is so well written, each book leaves you craving the next one.
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