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To Vex a Dark Prince: An Enemies-to-Lovers Fantasy Romance
He carries himself like the sort of boy you’d sell your own soul to learn the secrets of. A dark symphony filled with hidden notes and staggered pauses.
Colette Beauregard is a marked woman. Forced to live the rest of her life on the run disguised as a boy, she finds herself in even more trouble after she punches a stranger in a bar.
A stranger who turns out to be the crown prince, Leif Threadgold.
Arrested and taken to the palace dungeon, Colette must choose between two fates—be sentenced to hard labor on a vampire-infested border or become the prince’s new whipping boy for six months, bearing the lashes for the prince when he misbehaves.
She chooses the latter and is thrust into palace life. It won’t be easy to hide she’s a girl while also keeping the prince on his best behavior, even as he tries to sabotage her at every turn.
But despite the shared hatred, a strange tension builds between the two after the prince drunkenly kisses her. Now, Colette must unravel her forbidden feelings for the man she despises, all while protecting her secret.
As dalliances behind closed doors turn to more between her and her royal enemy, her true identity becomes even more difficult to hide.
To Vex a Dark Prince is a rococo-inspired dark fantasy romance with true enemies to lovers, on-page spice, humorous moments, vampires, elves, a happily ever after, and can be read as a standalone.
All of Abelia Sumpter's books are 100% human-written & edited.
Colette Beauregard is a marked woman. Forced to live the rest of her life on the run disguised as a boy, she finds herself in even more trouble after she punches a stranger in a bar.
A stranger who turns out to be the crown prince, Leif Threadgold.
Arrested and taken to the palace dungeon, Colette must choose between two fates—be sentenced to hard labor on a vampire-infested border or become the prince’s new whipping boy for six months, bearing the lashes for the prince when he misbehaves.
She chooses the latter and is thrust into palace life. It won’t be easy to hide she’s a girl while also keeping the prince on his best behavior, even as he tries to sabotage her at every turn.
But despite the shared hatred, a strange tension builds between the two after the prince drunkenly kisses her. Now, Colette must unravel her forbidden feelings for the man she despises, all while protecting her secret.
As dalliances behind closed doors turn to more between her and her royal enemy, her true identity becomes even more difficult to hide.
To Vex a Dark Prince is a rococo-inspired dark fantasy romance with true enemies to lovers, on-page spice, humorous moments, vampires, elves, a happily ever after, and can be read as a standalone.
All of Abelia Sumpter's books are 100% human-written & edited.
265 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 19, 2026
About the author
Abelia Sumpter
9 books46 followersAbelia holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and discovered her love of writing while preparing for her national licensure exam. Her passion for storytelling began much earlier. As a child, she wrote screenplays and created short films with her friends. She currently lives in Ohio with her husband and owns a vision board the size of a novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Note: Some of my goodreads shelves can be spoilers
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Readability: 📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡ (it was decent!)
Romance: 💞💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Humor: Yes
Perspective: first person from the heroine only
More character focused or plot focused? plot
How did the speed of the story feel? medium
When mains are first on page together: takes a little bit – halfway through chapter 3 (of 37)
Cliffhanger: No, it ends kind of abruptly but with a happy ever after?
Epilogue: No
Format: voluntarily read an advanced reader copy through NetGalley in e-book form
Why I chose this book: the title grabbed me
Mains: Leif Threadgold and Colette Beauregard – This is a M/F relationship between an elf hero and human heroine
Audiobook available (as of posting)? No
(Descriptions found at end of my review)
Should I read in order?
This is fine alone (or possibly the beginning of a series? Not sure at this point)
Basic plot:
Colette is being hunted – pretending to be a man and taking the protected place as the prince’s whipping boy should hide her identity
Give this a try if you want:
- fantasy romance
- elf hero / human heroine
- heroine disguised as a lad
- she’s his ‘whipping boy’
- prince hero
- medium steam – 4ish full scenes (one is pretty short and it’s a slower burn)
Ages:
- the hero is 21, she’s 19
First line:
Everyone in Charleraux knows that a deal with a dark elf only leads to death.
My thoughts:
This is my mistake for grabbing a book based off only the title. I think if I had read the synopsis I would have bypassed this one.
I mean it definitely has some tropes I can like. I like heroine dressed as a lad and secret identity. And I can like the dynamic of a servant / nobility (though I want to point out the power imbalance of course and in some ways this almost felt like a ‘bully’ romance in some scenes…)
But I really just hate the whole idea of a whipping boy. Especially for a 21 year old prince? I mean I guess elves age differently, maybe he’s a child elf but either way….Every time it came up I was just cringing…
This book is much more plot based than character focused and those are usually my least favorite – I think if you like a busier plot with not a lot of...introspective scenes this will be more your jam. I was left feeling like I didn’t know either main hardly at all so I didn’t find myself caring about them as much. The world building I think could have been interesting but it also wasn’t done in much detail. I didn’t know much about...anything really – just very focused on the daily events. I think things were thrown in as they were convenient and I prefer more understanding and layering within a story.
Maybe also getting only the heroine’s POV I was left not feeling the hero’s yearning as much.
It’s listed as a dark fantasy but I don’t see what is dark about it really. There is parental death. There is a power imbalance between the mains. There’s vampires. But maybe I’m just too corrupted but I didn’t see this as dark at all.
So this one just didn’t grab me like I wanted it to. I did like some scenes, especially her spicy scenes overall but ultimately I just wanted a bit more.
Few random reading stats for this author
# of books read: This is my first
Average rating from me: 3 stars
Favorite book: This one by default
World Building and Cock/Hero Stats:
Quotes/thoughts: (Any mistakes are my own)
Content warnings: (This should be taken as a minimum because I could have missed some!)
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes, safe sex, consent, pregnancy/child in the story:
Extra stuff like what my review breakdowns mean, where to find me, and book clubs
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Readability: 📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡ (it was decent!)
Romance: 💞💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Humor: Yes
Perspective: first person from the heroine only
More character focused or plot focused? plot
How did the speed of the story feel? medium
When mains are first on page together: takes a little bit – halfway through chapter 3 (of 37)
Cliffhanger: No, it ends kind of abruptly but with a happy ever after?
Epilogue: No
Format: voluntarily read an advanced reader copy through NetGalley in e-book form
Why I chose this book: the title grabbed me
Mains: Leif Threadgold and Colette Beauregard – This is a M/F relationship between an elf hero and human heroine
Audiobook available (as of posting)? No
(Descriptions found at end of my review)
Should I read in order?
This is fine alone (or possibly the beginning of a series? Not sure at this point)
Basic plot:
Colette is being hunted – pretending to be a man and taking the protected place as the prince’s whipping boy should hide her identity
Give this a try if you want:
- fantasy romance
- elf hero / human heroine
- heroine disguised as a lad
- she’s his ‘whipping boy’
- prince hero
- medium steam – 4ish full scenes (one is pretty short and it’s a slower burn)
Ages:
- the hero is 21, she’s 19
First line:
Everyone in Charleraux knows that a deal with a dark elf only leads to death.
My thoughts:
This is my mistake for grabbing a book based off only the title. I think if I had read the synopsis I would have bypassed this one.
I mean it definitely has some tropes I can like. I like heroine dressed as a lad and secret identity. And I can like the dynamic of a servant / nobility (though I want to point out the power imbalance of course and in some ways this almost felt like a ‘bully’ romance in some scenes…)
But I really just hate the whole idea of a whipping boy. Especially for a 21 year old prince? I mean I guess elves age differently, maybe he’s a child elf but either way….Every time it came up I was just cringing…
This book is much more plot based than character focused and those are usually my least favorite – I think if you like a busier plot with not a lot of...introspective scenes this will be more your jam. I was left feeling like I didn’t know either main hardly at all so I didn’t find myself caring about them as much. The world building I think could have been interesting but it also wasn’t done in much detail. I didn’t know much about...anything really – just very focused on the daily events. I think things were thrown in as they were convenient and I prefer more understanding and layering within a story.
Maybe also getting only the heroine’s POV I was left not feeling the hero’s yearning as much.
It’s listed as a dark fantasy but I don’t see what is dark about it really. There is parental death. There is a power imbalance between the mains. There’s vampires. But maybe I’m just too corrupted but I didn’t see this as dark at all.
So this one just didn’t grab me like I wanted it to. I did like some scenes, especially her spicy scenes overall but ultimately I just wanted a bit more.
Few random reading stats for this author
# of books read: This is my first
Average rating from me: 3 stars
Favorite book: This one by default
World Building and Cock/Hero Stats:
Quotes/thoughts: (Any mistakes are my own)
Content warnings: (This should be taken as a minimum because I could have missed some!)
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes, safe sex, consent, pregnancy/child in the story:
Extra stuff like what my review breakdowns mean, where to find me, and book clubs
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC
This was a very short, fun read.
This read as a YA novel to me but there are a couple ‘spicy’ scenes. There wasn’t much world building or even politics. The premise was good- but it was so short everything just fell really flat for me. The plot was so easily overcome by the abrupt ending it just felt a little
Blah.
This was a very short, fun read.
This read as a YA novel to me but there are a couple ‘spicy’ scenes. There wasn’t much world building or even politics. The premise was good- but it was so short everything just fell really flat for me. The plot was so easily overcome by the abrupt ending it just felt a little
Blah.
April 24, 2026
This book is short and fast-paced but the writing is on point and everything is well balanced. It’s funny and filled with tension and I loved the twist!
This book was the perfect breather that I needed!
Not too sure about the ending though, hence the 4🌟. There will be a sequel right…? Because there is still a lot to uncover 👀
This book was the perfect breather that I needed!
Not too sure about the ending though, hence the 4🌟. There will be a sequel right…? Because there is still a lot to uncover 👀
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I was lured in by the promise of Mulan trope (girl disguises herself as a boy) and a bisexual disaster prince. This was a 4-star read until around 70% in after which it felt like the author just wanted to wrap everything up and be done with it, making the ending rushed, confusing and unsatisfying, which impacted my enjoyment negatively.
The positives:
- The writing is easy to absorb on the line level, I was breezing through the pages.
- There were multiple laugh out loud comedic moments.
The negatives:
- The book has an identity crisis. The author markets it as a "dark romance", but for big swaths of time it reads like a slapstick comedy rom-com. A lot of the situations are supposed to be threatening but get brushed off easily or end up being embarrassing rather than dangerous.
- It's too short so a lot of plot points feel rushed. Starting with why the prince and the king agreed for Colette / Codi to become the whipping boy (how did you know this person wasn't a spy or a murderer?) and ending at the anticlimactic conclusion of every villain getting away Scot free:
- Due to the above, the foreshadowing of events also feels sparse and "blink and you'll miss it". A lot of side relationships aren't fleshed out, for example between Holland and Genevieve, Holland and Codi, the king and his son, Indigo and anybody... it's hard to get a "read" on those characters and then be surprised when a reveal lands or they change their behaviour, because they aren't established beyond a few broad strokes. The prince is supposed to be bisexual, but he only mentions taking women to his private quarters and we never see him flirt with men. He's also only attracted to Codi's feminine features like delicate shoulder or high pitched voice.
- Some moments didn't feel very believable, for example that Codi's secret identity wasn't discovered until so late, including during the whipping and following wound tending. Also how come fmc was "getting calluses from male shoes"? Shoes don't have a gender, either they fit or they don't. No kidding, I bought 2 pairs of shoes on sale from the male section because my size is always sold out in the female section (as it's one of the most common ones) and in the male section it's the bottom of the scale so they don't sell. I can't say I've noticed any difference in shape or comfort just because they're "for men".
- The romance. I have no idea what Codi saw in Leif or Leif in Codi besides irresistible lust. Leif treats Codi like trash and we're supposed to excuse him because of tragic backstory and because his own lust towards Codi is annoying him so he takes it out on the target. And in the end, he doesn't even apologize, Colette ends up apologizing for hiding her identity. This is one of the stories where fmc suffers body betrayal syndrome and her panties are soaked all the time even though mmc did nothing to earn it, and then in the end he doesn't even grovel and it utilizes the trope "good dicking counts as an apology". Nope, not buying this. Also what was this about Then why didn't you start from there?
Also Leif is being overall an asshole to everyone, including Holland or the Elven delegation, and there isn't either a good justification for it or a redemption arc.
Still, I wouldn't call it a dark romance, because he's not scarily dangerous, he's more of a petty bully, The Cruel Prince style. The difference is that The Cruel Prince has a follow up where fmc gets get revenge AND moments where the mmc has to make sacrifices to prove his growth as a person. Here, there was nothing of sorts.
I was waiting for some breakthrough moment in the romantic arc, but all I got was copious amounts of kissing and making out and a handful of sex scenes. They declare love for each other, but it feels all tell no show because we were shown no "love" only lust.
So I kept waiting for the ending to give a satisfying resolution both to the romance plot and the intrigue plot, but both fell flat, therefore finishing as a 3-star read.
Thank you Netgalley, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op, Rose & Lavender Press LLC and Abelia Sumpter for the ARC.
The positives:
- The writing is easy to absorb on the line level, I was breezing through the pages.
- There were multiple laugh out loud comedic moments.
The negatives:
- The book has an identity crisis. The author markets it as a "dark romance", but for big swaths of time it reads like a slapstick comedy rom-com. A lot of the situations are supposed to be threatening but get brushed off easily or end up being embarrassing rather than dangerous.
- It's too short so a lot of plot points feel rushed. Starting with why the prince and the king agreed for Colette / Codi to become the whipping boy (how did you know this person wasn't a spy or a murderer?) and ending at the anticlimactic conclusion of every villain getting away Scot free:
- Due to the above, the foreshadowing of events also feels sparse and "blink and you'll miss it". A lot of side relationships aren't fleshed out, for example between Holland and Genevieve, Holland and Codi, the king and his son, Indigo and anybody... it's hard to get a "read" on those characters and then be surprised when a reveal lands or they change their behaviour, because they aren't established beyond a few broad strokes. The prince is supposed to be bisexual, but he only mentions taking women to his private quarters and we never see him flirt with men. He's also only attracted to Codi's feminine features like delicate shoulder or high pitched voice.
- Some moments didn't feel very believable, for example that Codi's secret identity wasn't discovered until so late, including during the whipping and following wound tending. Also how come fmc was "getting calluses from male shoes"? Shoes don't have a gender, either they fit or they don't. No kidding, I bought 2 pairs of shoes on sale from the male section because my size is always sold out in the female section (as it's one of the most common ones) and in the male section it's the bottom of the scale so they don't sell. I can't say I've noticed any difference in shape or comfort just because they're "for men".
- The romance. I have no idea what Codi saw in Leif or Leif in Codi besides irresistible lust. Leif treats Codi like trash and we're supposed to excuse him because of tragic backstory and because his own lust towards Codi is annoying him so he takes it out on the target. And in the end, he doesn't even apologize, Colette ends up apologizing for hiding her identity. This is one of the stories where fmc suffers body betrayal syndrome and her panties are soaked all the time even though mmc did nothing to earn it, and then in the end he doesn't even grovel and it utilizes the trope "good dicking counts as an apology". Nope, not buying this. Also what was this about Then why didn't you start from there?
Also Leif is being overall an asshole to everyone, including Holland or the Elven delegation, and there isn't either a good justification for it or a redemption arc.
Still, I wouldn't call it a dark romance, because he's not scarily dangerous, he's more of a petty bully, The Cruel Prince style. The difference is that The Cruel Prince has a follow up where fmc gets get revenge AND moments where the mmc has to make sacrifices to prove his growth as a person. Here, there was nothing of sorts.
I was waiting for some breakthrough moment in the romantic arc, but all I got was copious amounts of kissing and making out and a handful of sex scenes. They declare love for each other, but it feels all tell no show because we were shown no "love" only lust.
So I kept waiting for the ending to give a satisfying resolution both to the romance plot and the intrigue plot, but both fell flat, therefore finishing as a 3-star read.
Thank you Netgalley, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op, Rose & Lavender Press LLC and Abelia Sumpter for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Book Review: To Vex a Dark Prince by Abelia Sumpter
Publication Date: 19 May 2026
Rating: 4.5 ⭐️
To Vex a Dark Prince is a bold, addictive dark fantasy romance that delivers sharp tension, layered characters, and a truly compelling enemies-to-lovers dynamic. Abelia Sumpter crafts a story that feels both dangerous and captivating, pulling you into a world where power, secrets, and desire collide.
Colette is a standout heroine—resourceful, resilient, and constantly walking the line between survival and exposure. Her need to remain hidden while navigating palace life creates a constant undercurrent of tension that keeps the stakes high. Watching her balance fear, defiance, and growing vulnerability makes her journey incredibly engaging.
Leif, the crown prince, is everything you expect from a dark romantasy lead—arrogant, unpredictable, and layered with more complexity than he initially reveals. His dynamic with Colette is volatile from the start, filled with sharp dialogue, power struggles, and a simmering tension that steadily builds into something far more intense.
The premise itself is unique and immediately gripping. The forced proximity, combined with the dangerous arrangement binding them together, creates the perfect foundation for conflict and chemistry. Their relationship evolves in a way that feels earned, shifting from hostility to something much deeper without losing that edge of danger.
The world-building adds another layer of richness, with elements of vampires, court politics, and hidden identities woven seamlessly into the narrative. The rococo-inspired setting gives the story a distinct atmosphere—elegant on the surface, but filled with darkness underneath.
What truly stands out is the balance between intensity and intrigue. There are moments of tension, humour, and emotional depth that keep the story feeling dynamic and immersive throughout.
To Vex a Dark Prince is a captivating, slow-burning dark romance filled with secrets, power plays, and undeniable chemistry. A must-read for fans of enemies-to-lovers romantasy who enjoy high stakes, hidden identities, and characters that challenge each other at every turn.
Publication Date: 19 May 2026
Rating: 4.5 ⭐️
To Vex a Dark Prince is a bold, addictive dark fantasy romance that delivers sharp tension, layered characters, and a truly compelling enemies-to-lovers dynamic. Abelia Sumpter crafts a story that feels both dangerous and captivating, pulling you into a world where power, secrets, and desire collide.
Colette is a standout heroine—resourceful, resilient, and constantly walking the line between survival and exposure. Her need to remain hidden while navigating palace life creates a constant undercurrent of tension that keeps the stakes high. Watching her balance fear, defiance, and growing vulnerability makes her journey incredibly engaging.
Leif, the crown prince, is everything you expect from a dark romantasy lead—arrogant, unpredictable, and layered with more complexity than he initially reveals. His dynamic with Colette is volatile from the start, filled with sharp dialogue, power struggles, and a simmering tension that steadily builds into something far more intense.
The premise itself is unique and immediately gripping. The forced proximity, combined with the dangerous arrangement binding them together, creates the perfect foundation for conflict and chemistry. Their relationship evolves in a way that feels earned, shifting from hostility to something much deeper without losing that edge of danger.
The world-building adds another layer of richness, with elements of vampires, court politics, and hidden identities woven seamlessly into the narrative. The rococo-inspired setting gives the story a distinct atmosphere—elegant on the surface, but filled with darkness underneath.
What truly stands out is the balance between intensity and intrigue. There are moments of tension, humour, and emotional depth that keep the story feeling dynamic and immersive throughout.
To Vex a Dark Prince is a captivating, slow-burning dark romance filled with secrets, power plays, and undeniable chemistry. A must-read for fans of enemies-to-lovers romantasy who enjoy high stakes, hidden identities, and characters that challenge each other at every turn.
May 11, 2026
I was unexpectedly drawn in!
I went into this book not really expecting much. Not in a bad way, just no expectations. Initially with the dark Fae coming in I was of course intrigued because I love books on Fae but then it quickly went more into a human existence story for a while which threw me off for a little bit but once we were introduced to the prince I couldn’t put it down.
I loved all the buildup of tension. Is he really going to hurt her? Is he going to have big revenge moment? I was anticipating it to actually get really dark, but right before it did, the prince started making his feelings a little more caring and it was just enough each time to still make you question if it was real or not.
Once it got to the kiss question, it was just an abrupt moment but also a "YES" finally! It was such a whirlwind into the romance. I loved the chemistry between the characters. I loved how the prince had so many layers for his redemption.
Although there was so much hate in the beginning from so many characters, I was surprised to see that each one had enough justifications to make you believe they were all misunderstood.
Once the elves and vampires came into the plot, I would say I was more intrigued by the Vampires than the Fae. They had a lot more mystery to them. I did enjoy the dynamics between the 3 kingdoms and how they connect to each other.
What I was disappointed about, was how QUICKLY the last 75% of the book just wrapped up! It felt like it was perfect pacing and then all of a sudden this, this, done. I wanted to see more of Colette and the Prince's after everything was revealed and the relationship unfold, especially in the first time moment. I wanted to know more about her learning her powers and what would become of it because that felt like a big deal. I wanted to know more about the Vampires and the their King. I just really felt there could have been at least 50 more pages of story there. Again it just felt a bit rushed and like it had to wrapped up quickly.
Overall, this really was a page turner for me. It was difficult to put it down when I had to. I loved most of the pacing in the book and the dynamics between all the characters and the layers of the characters. I thought it was very romantic how it played out. I would read a book 2 of this absolutely.
This book was an Arc Read from Netgalley for review.
I went into this book not really expecting much. Not in a bad way, just no expectations. Initially with the dark Fae coming in I was of course intrigued because I love books on Fae but then it quickly went more into a human existence story for a while which threw me off for a little bit but once we were introduced to the prince I couldn’t put it down.
I loved all the buildup of tension. Is he really going to hurt her? Is he going to have big revenge moment? I was anticipating it to actually get really dark, but right before it did, the prince started making his feelings a little more caring and it was just enough each time to still make you question if it was real or not.
Once it got to the kiss question, it was just an abrupt moment but also a "YES" finally! It was such a whirlwind into the romance. I loved the chemistry between the characters. I loved how the prince had so many layers for his redemption.
Although there was so much hate in the beginning from so many characters, I was surprised to see that each one had enough justifications to make you believe they were all misunderstood.
Once the elves and vampires came into the plot, I would say I was more intrigued by the Vampires than the Fae. They had a lot more mystery to them. I did enjoy the dynamics between the 3 kingdoms and how they connect to each other.
What I was disappointed about, was how QUICKLY the last 75% of the book just wrapped up! It felt like it was perfect pacing and then all of a sudden this, this, done. I wanted to see more of Colette and the Prince's after everything was revealed and the relationship unfold, especially in the first time moment. I wanted to know more about her learning her powers and what would become of it because that felt like a big deal. I wanted to know more about the Vampires and the their King. I just really felt there could have been at least 50 more pages of story there. Again it just felt a bit rushed and like it had to wrapped up quickly.
Overall, this really was a page turner for me. It was difficult to put it down when I had to. I loved most of the pacing in the book and the dynamics between all the characters and the layers of the characters. I thought it was very romantic how it played out. I would read a book 2 of this absolutely.
This book was an Arc Read from Netgalley for review.
August 10, 2026
The passionate lies!!
Book Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The passion and anger in this book! My goodness. It floats off the pages and seeps into your skin like a favorite scent. The emotions are intense, and I was hooked.
Colette is simply trying to survive after her father is murdered and her mother abandons her. Being born into nobility does nothing to protect her, so she goes on the run disguised as a peasant boy.
Then, after one particularly disastrous night where she punches the prince in the face, she ends up as his new whipping boy. 😂
"Codi" spends every moment trying to keep Leif from misbehaving and taking out his anger on her, but that's easier said than done when the prince absolutely despises her.
Until a drunken kiss changes everything.
Leif becomes increasingly confused by his attraction to "Codi," especially because he believes he's straight and can't understand why he's so drawn to this mysterious boy. Meanwhile, Colette knows the truth: she's a disgraced noblewoman hiding behind a false identity, and falling for the prince could destroy them both.
And as if that wasn't enough, vampires are breaking through the barrier, Leif is promised to an elven princess, and Colette's carefully guarded secret is discovered. Then magic that shouldn't even exist awakens inside her.
Suddenly, friends become enemies, enemies become unexpected allies, and Colette has to hold on to who she truly is while hoping there's still something left to forgive.
Leif is absolutely an enemy I loved to watch unravel. His fierce protectiveness, possessiveness, and growing devotion to Colette—even before he knows who she really is—made their relationship impossible to look away from.
Honestly? I wish this had been the beginning of a whole series with Colette and Leif at the center.
Five stars. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Book Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The passion and anger in this book! My goodness. It floats off the pages and seeps into your skin like a favorite scent. The emotions are intense, and I was hooked.
Colette is simply trying to survive after her father is murdered and her mother abandons her. Being born into nobility does nothing to protect her, so she goes on the run disguised as a peasant boy.
Then, after one particularly disastrous night where she punches the prince in the face, she ends up as his new whipping boy. 😂
"Codi" spends every moment trying to keep Leif from misbehaving and taking out his anger on her, but that's easier said than done when the prince absolutely despises her.
Until a drunken kiss changes everything.
Leif becomes increasingly confused by his attraction to "Codi," especially because he believes he's straight and can't understand why he's so drawn to this mysterious boy. Meanwhile, Colette knows the truth: she's a disgraced noblewoman hiding behind a false identity, and falling for the prince could destroy them both.
And as if that wasn't enough, vampires are breaking through the barrier, Leif is promised to an elven princess, and Colette's carefully guarded secret is discovered. Then magic that shouldn't even exist awakens inside her.
Suddenly, friends become enemies, enemies become unexpected allies, and Colette has to hold on to who she truly is while hoping there's still something left to forgive.
Leif is absolutely an enemy I loved to watch unravel. His fierce protectiveness, possessiveness, and growing devotion to Colette—even before he knows who she really is—made their relationship impossible to look away from.
Honestly? I wish this had been the beginning of a whole series with Colette and Leif at the center.
Five stars. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
"I’m fatherless by fate. Motherless by choice. In the span of minutes, the life I once knew was ripped from me. Now, the only thing I can do is disguise my identity and pray I’m not found."
Dark Elves. An entitled prince. Vampires. Betrayal. This book is about so much more than a girl pretending to be a boy and a prince worried over his growing (to his knowledge) same-sex attraction. From the first pages, we are told how dangerous this world is when Colette's father is killed in front of her, and she is forced to go on the run from a foe who can use any reflective surface to find her. We have political tensions between the dark elves and vampires on one side and the humans and light elves on the other. This element made the book, IMO, and the last few chapters had me on the edge of my seat. I love the way certain information is revealed, where we realize past scenes were so much more meaningful than we originally knew. The characters were well fleshed out, especially Holland. We learn there is so much more to these young men than the pampered, pretentious side we're first introduced to. And there is more to Colette than even she knows.
This book is a quick read that sucks you into Colette's predicament. I felt invested in whether she was able to keep her secret while staying hidden from the dark elf searching for her. There were parts where I laughed out loud, and parts that felt endearing. There is action and romance, and this book exceeded my expectations. While the ending is satisfying, I am looking forward to any books that continue this story, especially with what we learn about Colette and the lack of resolution between the kingdoms.
I received a copy of this book and am leaving a fair and honest review.
Dark Elves. An entitled prince. Vampires. Betrayal. This book is about so much more than a girl pretending to be a boy and a prince worried over his growing (to his knowledge) same-sex attraction. From the first pages, we are told how dangerous this world is when Colette's father is killed in front of her, and she is forced to go on the run from a foe who can use any reflective surface to find her. We have political tensions between the dark elves and vampires on one side and the humans and light elves on the other. This element made the book, IMO, and the last few chapters had me on the edge of my seat. I love the way certain information is revealed, where we realize past scenes were so much more meaningful than we originally knew. The characters were well fleshed out, especially Holland. We learn there is so much more to these young men than the pampered, pretentious side we're first introduced to. And there is more to Colette than even she knows.
This book is a quick read that sucks you into Colette's predicament. I felt invested in whether she was able to keep her secret while staying hidden from the dark elf searching for her. There were parts where I laughed out loud, and parts that felt endearing. There is action and romance, and this book exceeded my expectations. While the ending is satisfying, I am looking forward to any books that continue this story, especially with what we learn about Colette and the lack of resolution between the kingdoms.
I received a copy of this book and am leaving a fair and honest review.
May 28, 2026
4⭐️
First of all, thank you very much to Abelia Sumpter, Victory Editing and NetGalley for giving me access to the book. All the opinions expressed in here are my own.
What a awesome reading it was! Have to say that it was much better than a thought it would be when I picked it up! It is not the “latest invention on earth”, but it is so well written! The balance between, story development, plot, the tension/ yearning between the FMC, Colette, and MMC, Leif…I loved it!
I read the book at the perfect time, I think, because between some “heavier” fantasy readings, I was in absolute need of a short and fast-paced story, with a more darker vibe, and easy to follow along. I admit, at some point I was, literally, yearning for the main couple. The connections between everyone’s stories is so well explained and written, that is so delightfully to read. The dynamic between the main characters, the tension between them, the forced proximity…I lived for it! The diversity of species that enriched the story (humans, vampires and elves) was a must to. And I absolutely appreciated the beautiful way the author passed the message that: love is love.
As it can be expected: I love the book and highly recommend giving it a go! Expect finding here a dark fantasy, with a good world building, very rich descriptions about the characters and the court politics/intrigues, different species living in the same world, tension moments, emotional depth, humorous scenes, a slow-burn, some spicier scenes, characters chemistry. I would recommend reading the book if you crave for a darker story, easy to follow along and well written, filled with magic, rich characters and a true enemies to lovers that will make you yearn for them. I had a blast reading this🖤
First of all, thank you very much to Abelia Sumpter, Victory Editing and NetGalley for giving me access to the book. All the opinions expressed in here are my own.
What a awesome reading it was! Have to say that it was much better than a thought it would be when I picked it up! It is not the “latest invention on earth”, but it is so well written! The balance between, story development, plot, the tension/ yearning between the FMC, Colette, and MMC, Leif…I loved it!
I read the book at the perfect time, I think, because between some “heavier” fantasy readings, I was in absolute need of a short and fast-paced story, with a more darker vibe, and easy to follow along. I admit, at some point I was, literally, yearning for the main couple. The connections between everyone’s stories is so well explained and written, that is so delightfully to read. The dynamic between the main characters, the tension between them, the forced proximity…I lived for it! The diversity of species that enriched the story (humans, vampires and elves) was a must to. And I absolutely appreciated the beautiful way the author passed the message that: love is love.
As it can be expected: I love the book and highly recommend giving it a go! Expect finding here a dark fantasy, with a good world building, very rich descriptions about the characters and the court politics/intrigues, different species living in the same world, tension moments, emotional depth, humorous scenes, a slow-burn, some spicier scenes, characters chemistry. I would recommend reading the book if you crave for a darker story, easy to follow along and well written, filled with magic, rich characters and a true enemies to lovers that will make you yearn for them. I had a blast reading this🖤
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
3.75 ⭐️'s
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is a dark romance fantasy with a bully romance and a Mulan trope. I found this an addictive read with an intriguing plot, characters, and twists. I was able to read this book in basically one sitting! The plot had some high-stakes plot points, but everything was resolved so easily and conveniently all the time that it diminished the anxiety-inducing aspect of reading a high-stakes book. Although it has dark elements to it, the author was able to incorporate some funny moments and antics, which I did laugh at.
The Mulan trope was really interesting because the MMC started to fall for the FMC, not knowing she was secretly a girl (borederline m/m action), so it was a true soul connection of him loving her for her. I do wish the relationship had been built up more, because why he fell in love with her exactly, he doesn't say, and I don't know. I wish the story overall were longer so it could go more in-depth about descriptions of settings and also the main relationship. The setting of this book is supposed to have a Rococo vibe; however, I didn’t fully get that. The descriptions of the scenery and clothing felt short, more like listing out details rather than painting a full picture.
If you're going into this book to get swept away for several hours in an easy, simple dark fantasy world, then this book is a good option. I believe this is a stand-alone, and I felt satisfied with the ending; however, there could definitely be a book 2 that elaborates more into all the kingdoms and where our FMC ends up.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is a dark romance fantasy with a bully romance and a Mulan trope. I found this an addictive read with an intriguing plot, characters, and twists. I was able to read this book in basically one sitting! The plot had some high-stakes plot points, but everything was resolved so easily and conveniently all the time that it diminished the anxiety-inducing aspect of reading a high-stakes book. Although it has dark elements to it, the author was able to incorporate some funny moments and antics, which I did laugh at.
The Mulan trope was really interesting because the MMC started to fall for the FMC, not knowing she was secretly a girl (borederline m/m action), so it was a true soul connection of him loving her for her. I do wish the relationship had been built up more, because why he fell in love with her exactly, he doesn't say, and I don't know. I wish the story overall were longer so it could go more in-depth about descriptions of settings and also the main relationship. The setting of this book is supposed to have a Rococo vibe; however, I didn’t fully get that. The descriptions of the scenery and clothing felt short, more like listing out details rather than painting a full picture.
If you're going into this book to get swept away for several hours in an easy, simple dark fantasy world, then this book is a good option. I believe this is a stand-alone, and I felt satisfied with the ending; however, there could definitely be a book 2 that elaborates more into all the kingdoms and where our FMC ends up.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you for NetGalley and Rose & Lavender Press, LLC for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Okay, so I liked the story. I thought it was very easy to digest and have fun reading. Like I've seen other people say, the writing at the beginning of the book seemed very rushed through, but I felt Sumpter started to get her grove a little later on.
What I liked:
I thought a lot of the interactions between the characters were funny. You could really feel Colette's panic through a lot of the situation's she was put in. Some people though he was okay, but I thoroughly enjoyed Leif's character. I wouldn't call him a dark prince, but he is the product of his environment and that was entertaining to read. Sage was also a delight to read. I would read a whole book on him if Sumpter would write it.
What I didn't like:
This was marketed as a dark romance, enemies to lovers story. For me, I kind of understood the enemies part, but there really was no transition between the enemies to lovers. The love would have been more believable if the FMC and love interest could have shared moments together that breaks the ice between the two. I understand, however, with a book that is only a little over 200 pages, that probably wouldn't have worked. That being said, the book should have definitely been longer because it's fantasy and there weren't enough meat for both world building as well as character development and the story. We didn't really explore any of the character's on a more deeper level and why they act the way they do. In a way this read more like YA than anything else except for the more mature scenes.
Overall, a good 3.5 stars :D
Okay, so I liked the story. I thought it was very easy to digest and have fun reading. Like I've seen other people say, the writing at the beginning of the book seemed very rushed through, but I felt Sumpter started to get her grove a little later on.
What I liked:
I thought a lot of the interactions between the characters were funny. You could really feel Colette's panic through a lot of the situation's she was put in. Some people though he was okay, but I thoroughly enjoyed Leif's character. I wouldn't call him a dark prince, but he is the product of his environment and that was entertaining to read. Sage was also a delight to read. I would read a whole book on him if Sumpter would write it.
What I didn't like:
This was marketed as a dark romance, enemies to lovers story. For me, I kind of understood the enemies part, but there really was no transition between the enemies to lovers. The love would have been more believable if the FMC and love interest could have shared moments together that breaks the ice between the two. I understand, however, with a book that is only a little over 200 pages, that probably wouldn't have worked. That being said, the book should have definitely been longer because it's fantasy and there weren't enough meat for both world building as well as character development and the story. We didn't really explore any of the character's on a more deeper level and why they act the way they do. In a way this read more like YA than anything else except for the more mature scenes.
Overall, a good 3.5 stars :D
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
To Vex a Dark Prince was such a chaotic and addictive fantasy romance. The moment I read “girl disguised as a boy becomes the prince’s whipping boy” I already knew this book was going to be dramatic, messy, and full of tension — and it absolutely delivered.
Colette was a really strong FMC. She’s stubborn, angry, constantly trying to survive, and refuses to let herself be intimidated even when she’s thrown into palace politics and impossible situations. I loved that she and Leif genuinely disliked each other at first because it made the enemies-to-lovers progression feel earned instead of instant attraction pretending to be hate.
And Leif? He’s exactly the kind of dark fantasy prince readers love — arrogant, reckless, manipulative, but just vulnerable enough underneath to make you obsessed with figuring him out. The chemistry between them was intense from the beginning, especially once the tension shifted from hatred into something much more complicated.
The worldbuilding also surprised me in a good way. Between the vampires, palace intrigue, hidden identity storyline, and darker fantasy atmosphere, the story always felt like there was something happening. It balanced humor, romance, and darker moments really well without losing the emotional tension between the characters.
Overall, this was a dramatic, tension-filled fantasy romance with strong enemies-to-lovers energy, sharp banter, and plenty of angst. If you like morally grey princes, hidden identity tropes, forced proximity, and fantasy romance with real bite, this is definitely worth picking up.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Colette was a really strong FMC. She’s stubborn, angry, constantly trying to survive, and refuses to let herself be intimidated even when she’s thrown into palace politics and impossible situations. I loved that she and Leif genuinely disliked each other at first because it made the enemies-to-lovers progression feel earned instead of instant attraction pretending to be hate.
And Leif? He’s exactly the kind of dark fantasy prince readers love — arrogant, reckless, manipulative, but just vulnerable enough underneath to make you obsessed with figuring him out. The chemistry between them was intense from the beginning, especially once the tension shifted from hatred into something much more complicated.
The worldbuilding also surprised me in a good way. Between the vampires, palace intrigue, hidden identity storyline, and darker fantasy atmosphere, the story always felt like there was something happening. It balanced humor, romance, and darker moments really well without losing the emotional tension between the characters.
Overall, this was a dramatic, tension-filled fantasy romance with strong enemies-to-lovers energy, sharp banter, and plenty of angst. If you like morally grey princes, hidden identity tropes, forced proximity, and fantasy romance with real bite, this is definitely worth picking up.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 9, 2026
{steamy M/F romantic fantasy, single POV}
⁃ Standalone 😘
⁃ A Favorite
Synopsis:
Colette was a minor nobleman’s daughter who suddenly found herself running from a dark elf ruffian after a deal gone wrong. Admittedly, I couldn’t believe she could escape a trained mercenary, but I loved her cross-dressing as a boy to escape detection. When she, on a dare, punches the prince, she is dragged to the castle with only one real choice: become his whipping boy. I absolutely love a unique twist or take, and I just had to keep reading when the punch hurt because a noblewoman would not learn dirt fighting. 😂 Add in “whipping boy” and my reading boredom is no more!
I don’t think I have had that much fun reading in ages.
The Romance:
“It’s only natural that I’d feel strange being touched by a naked boy. A naked boy who stole my first kiss last night.”
I would feel strange, too, if I were disguised as a boy, yet Prince Lief kept touching and attempting to kiss me! The pining led up to some smexy scenes, so don’t read this if you are a young adult.
The Side Characters:
I think the quality of the side characters demonstrates how well the author planned this story. Everyone seems to have motivations and character. I think my favorite character (although all of them captured my heart) would be the surprise vampire at the end. He seemed to be the sexy rogue pirate even though he claims a kingdom of his own.
Would I read this again? Yes, resounding yes. This book reminds me of anther favorite from Briana Sugalski.
⁃ Standalone 😘
⁃ A Favorite
Synopsis:
Colette was a minor nobleman’s daughter who suddenly found herself running from a dark elf ruffian after a deal gone wrong. Admittedly, I couldn’t believe she could escape a trained mercenary, but I loved her cross-dressing as a boy to escape detection. When she, on a dare, punches the prince, she is dragged to the castle with only one real choice: become his whipping boy. I absolutely love a unique twist or take, and I just had to keep reading when the punch hurt because a noblewoman would not learn dirt fighting. 😂 Add in “whipping boy” and my reading boredom is no more!
I don’t think I have had that much fun reading in ages.
The Romance:
“It’s only natural that I’d feel strange being touched by a naked boy. A naked boy who stole my first kiss last night.”
I would feel strange, too, if I were disguised as a boy, yet Prince Lief kept touching and attempting to kiss me! The pining led up to some smexy scenes, so don’t read this if you are a young adult.
The Side Characters:
I think the quality of the side characters demonstrates how well the author planned this story. Everyone seems to have motivations and character. I think my favorite character (although all of them captured my heart) would be the surprise vampire at the end. He seemed to be the sexy rogue pirate even though he claims a kingdom of his own.
Would I read this again? Yes, resounding yes. This book reminds me of anther favorite from Briana Sugalski.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I received an advance copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
2.5
I picked up this book because the Mulan vibes sounded really interesting, and at first I was enjoying it a lot. I read it pretty quickly because the beginning was exciting and kept my attention.
The story started with a big bang, but later it felt like this part of the plot only existed to create the crazy life-or-death moment at the end of the book. Even now, I still do not understand how the FMC managed to escape the first time she saw… you know who. That part felt unrealistic to me.
The MMC was okay overall. At first, I honestly thought he could not possibly be the love interest, especially after the scene with the shoe. But somehow, he was. Still, he became more interesting later in the story.
The whole concept of the whipping boy was uncomfortable to read about, but I think it helped show that the MMC was capable of caring about other people. Honestly, his confusion about his sexuality was one of the most interesting and enjoyable parts of the book for me.
The pacing was good for most of the story, until the ending. Everything suddenly got resolved too quickly and too easily. The HEA did not feel earned at all, and I wanted more development before the conclusion.
Overall, the book had an interesting idea and some good moments, but the ending and some plot choices made it disappointing for me in the end.
2.5
I picked up this book because the Mulan vibes sounded really interesting, and at first I was enjoying it a lot. I read it pretty quickly because the beginning was exciting and kept my attention.
The story started with a big bang, but later it felt like this part of the plot only existed to create the crazy life-or-death moment at the end of the book. Even now, I still do not understand how the FMC managed to escape the first time she saw… you know who. That part felt unrealistic to me.
The MMC was okay overall. At first, I honestly thought he could not possibly be the love interest, especially after the scene with the shoe. But somehow, he was. Still, he became more interesting later in the story.
The whole concept of the whipping boy was uncomfortable to read about, but I think it helped show that the MMC was capable of caring about other people. Honestly, his confusion about his sexuality was one of the most interesting and enjoyable parts of the book for me.
The pacing was good for most of the story, until the ending. Everything suddenly got resolved too quickly and too easily. The HEA did not feel earned at all, and I wanted more development before the conclusion.
Overall, the book had an interesting idea and some good moments, but the ending and some plot choices made it disappointing for me in the end.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I would like to extend my thanks to Abelia Sumpter and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this fantastic title in exchange for an honest review.
This is the perfect introductory novel for readers looking to dip their toes into the "romantasy" genre. At a concise 210 pages, it serves as a wonderful palate cleanser between heavier reads. I found myself devouring the entire story in a single day, captivated by its accessibility and charm.
What worked well:
The author keeps the fantasy elements streamlined and easy to digest, which prevents the story from feeling bogged down by complex lore.
The protagonists are genuinely likeable with clear, logical motivations. I appreciated that they weren't weighed down by overly convoluted backstories, making them easy to root for from page one.
The narrative flow is excellent. There is no "mid-book slump", the dialogue feels natural and the action moves forward without ever feeling rushed.
I really respected that the author didn't try to force extra tropes into the plot where they weren't required; everything felt earned and intentional.
While the ending provides a satisfying sense of closure and could easily stand as a lone novel, the author has left just enough threads to allow for future installments. I thoroughly enjoyed Abelia Sumpter’s writing style and will certainly be keeping an eye out for her future work.
This is the perfect introductory novel for readers looking to dip their toes into the "romantasy" genre. At a concise 210 pages, it serves as a wonderful palate cleanser between heavier reads. I found myself devouring the entire story in a single day, captivated by its accessibility and charm.
What worked well:
The author keeps the fantasy elements streamlined and easy to digest, which prevents the story from feeling bogged down by complex lore.
The protagonists are genuinely likeable with clear, logical motivations. I appreciated that they weren't weighed down by overly convoluted backstories, making them easy to root for from page one.
The narrative flow is excellent. There is no "mid-book slump", the dialogue feels natural and the action moves forward without ever feeling rushed.
I really respected that the author didn't try to force extra tropes into the plot where they weren't required; everything felt earned and intentional.
While the ending provides a satisfying sense of closure and could easily stand as a lone novel, the author has left just enough threads to allow for future installments. I thoroughly enjoyed Abelia Sumpter’s writing style and will certainly be keeping an eye out for her future work.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
To Vex a Dark Prince is page-turning, humorous, and addicting. This dark fantasy read immediately takes you into the action between the main character Colette. In an effort to escape her pursuer, she attempts to survive but in doing so runs into the MMC Leif and let me tell you this meet cute made me laugh and invest more into the story.
One of the highlights of reading this story is the characters. Colette reminds me of Mulan as both are strong women pretending to be male. In the same manner, I love how she slowly discovers her power and confidence regarding her situation. Leif on the other hand does come off as a reluctant prince who craves normalcy. His instant curiosity about Colette had me trying to predict when he’d catch onto her. I was not disappointed. The chemistry between the duo is undeniable and I was giddy with each interaction I read.
The world they lived in was a welcoming return to fantasy for me. Elves, vampires, magic, and side characters who help create a complex, compelling world. Sumpter did a great job introducing an alluring world without overwhelming the reader. By the end of the story, I needed more and will be on the lookout for more in the future series.
One of the highlights of reading this story is the characters. Colette reminds me of Mulan as both are strong women pretending to be male. In the same manner, I love how she slowly discovers her power and confidence regarding her situation. Leif on the other hand does come off as a reluctant prince who craves normalcy. His instant curiosity about Colette had me trying to predict when he’d catch onto her. I was not disappointed. The chemistry between the duo is undeniable and I was giddy with each interaction I read.
The world they lived in was a welcoming return to fantasy for me. Elves, vampires, magic, and side characters who help create a complex, compelling world. Sumpter did a great job introducing an alluring world without overwhelming the reader. By the end of the story, I needed more and will be on the lookout for more in the future series.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I ate this book up. Gobbled it right down like a piece of pecan pie after a Thanksgiving meal.
Here is what I loved:
Prince Leif’s growing attraction, unaware of Colette’s true sex, adds a layer of complexity that challenges the reader to reconsider how identity and attraction intersect. His feelings develop independently of Colette’s revealed identity, suggesting an attraction grounded in connection rather than outward gender presentation. This part of the story felt fresh and honest!
Plot Twists! There were a few. And all of them had me sitting up straight.
Sage’s reflection-magic: Okay, this was just really cool and creepy!
Honest Critique:
The very beginning of the story felt a little rushed. I wanted to understand Colette’s family better (and her father’s fate). Similarly, the ending/resolution felt too rushed and tidy. I simply wanted more :)
World-Building: I loved all of the magical elements (light elves, dark elves, vampires, human magic), I wanted to know more about the heightened political dynamics and the history there.
Overall, this was a fun, easy, quick, (and spicy) read :) I look forward to reading future works by Abelia!
3.5 Stars
Here is what I loved:
Prince Leif’s growing attraction, unaware of Colette’s true sex, adds a layer of complexity that challenges the reader to reconsider how identity and attraction intersect. His feelings develop independently of Colette’s revealed identity, suggesting an attraction grounded in connection rather than outward gender presentation. This part of the story felt fresh and honest!
Plot Twists! There were a few. And all of them had me sitting up straight.
Sage’s reflection-magic: Okay, this was just really cool and creepy!
Honest Critique:
The very beginning of the story felt a little rushed. I wanted to understand Colette’s family better (and her father’s fate). Similarly, the ending/resolution felt too rushed and tidy. I simply wanted more :)
World-Building: I loved all of the magical elements (light elves, dark elves, vampires, human magic), I wanted to know more about the heightened political dynamics and the history there.
Overall, this was a fun, easy, quick, (and spicy) read :) I look forward to reading future works by Abelia!
3.5 Stars
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
2 🌟 - ARC
Thank you to Rose & Lavender Press LLC, Netgalley & Abelia Sumptor for the ARC!
The plot has such good potential, but I found this story lacking in character depth and development and it seemed to have a lot of gaps which were left unanswered.
I can appreciate the author's vision for the story, but it felt very sporadic with many elements. I feel like if she had more time to develop the plot and characters, maybe focused on one or two things in depth, it could have had a more completed and well rounded feeling.
At the beginning I envisioned the FMC as a young 11 or 12 year old girl, it wasnt until later in the novel that I realized she was supposed to be 19.
As for the tropes - I dont know if it ticks all the boxes for a dark romance perse, and I dont know if I would have called it enemies to lovers; the connection seemed forced. But it was a decent read as a YA Fantasy. Unfortunately some books won't connect with every reader and this one is a disconnect for me :(. I appreciate the opportunity to read and review though!
Thank you to Rose & Lavender Press LLC, Netgalley & Abelia Sumptor for the ARC!
The plot has such good potential, but I found this story lacking in character depth and development and it seemed to have a lot of gaps which were left unanswered.
I can appreciate the author's vision for the story, but it felt very sporadic with many elements. I feel like if she had more time to develop the plot and characters, maybe focused on one or two things in depth, it could have had a more completed and well rounded feeling.
At the beginning I envisioned the FMC as a young 11 or 12 year old girl, it wasnt until later in the novel that I realized she was supposed to be 19.
As for the tropes - I dont know if it ticks all the boxes for a dark romance perse, and I dont know if I would have called it enemies to lovers; the connection seemed forced. But it was a decent read as a YA Fantasy. Unfortunately some books won't connect with every reader and this one is a disconnect for me :(. I appreciate the opportunity to read and review though!
April 24, 2026
I had a bit of a rocky start with this book. There’s a lot happening right at the beginning. Colette, a noblewoman, is forced to flee her home, disguise herself as a boy, and ultimately ends up as the prince’s whipping boy. It all unfolds very quickly and felt a little disjointed at first.
But once the story settles and you get to know the characters, I really started to enjoy it.
I think it’s impressive how well everything comes together in just 200 pages, seriously, kudos for that. I especially loved that Leif is drawn to Colette regardless of whether she presents as a boy or a girl. His attraction feels genuinely rooted in who she is as a person, and their chemistry really came through. The dynamic between Colette and Leif is what made this story stand out for me.
The world itself is interesting and well thought out, with clear potential for expansion. I’d definitely be interested in exploring more of the different kingdoms if there are future books.
Thank you to NetGalley and to Victory Editing for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
But once the story settles and you get to know the characters, I really started to enjoy it.
I think it’s impressive how well everything comes together in just 200 pages, seriously, kudos for that. I especially loved that Leif is drawn to Colette regardless of whether she presents as a boy or a girl. His attraction feels genuinely rooted in who she is as a person, and their chemistry really came through. The dynamic between Colette and Leif is what made this story stand out for me.
The world itself is interesting and well thought out, with clear potential for expansion. I’d definitely be interested in exploring more of the different kingdoms if there are future books.
Thank you to NetGalley and to Victory Editing for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Too much story for too few pages.
The cover and blurb pulled me in, but at under 200 pages, everything feels rushed, the ending was so abrupt, that I reread that day after, doubting myself.
Colette, even while posing as a boy, stays oddly fixated on her beauty routines and lacks any emotional depth, self-reflection or common sense (at least on page). Leif and his friends just come off as bullies and all the hints to emotional trauma or deeper reasons stay just that. The plot leans heavily on convenience, magic appears, problems and villains vanish.
Also, for me if it’s labeled 18+, calling them “boy” and “girl” kills any sense of maturity.
2⭐ This was not for me, finished it because of it’s shortness and my reluctance to DNF.
Thanks for the publisher and NetGalley for an arc, I leave this review voluntarily.
The cover and blurb pulled me in, but at under 200 pages, everything feels rushed, the ending was so abrupt, that I reread that day after, doubting myself.
Colette, even while posing as a boy, stays oddly fixated on her beauty routines and lacks any emotional depth, self-reflection or common sense (at least on page). Leif and his friends just come off as bullies and all the hints to emotional trauma or deeper reasons stay just that. The plot leans heavily on convenience, magic appears, problems and villains vanish.
Also, for me if it’s labeled 18+, calling them “boy” and “girl” kills any sense of maturity.
2⭐ This was not for me, finished it because of it’s shortness and my reluctance to DNF.
Thanks for the publisher and NetGalley for an arc, I leave this review voluntarily.
May 20, 2026
Review copy from net galley
I absolutely loved this book, it's definitely got Cruel prince vibes but for adults, which I loved, also it's quite an original idea, especially the whipping boy bit, also one thing I especially like was it was ACTUAL enemies to lovers, which is quite rare now, since they genuinely hated each other at the start.
There were so many moments with this book that I gasped at, and laughed, I loved the reveal of Collette being a girl, because the fact she got found out because of a magic necklace is hilarious for me, and I really appreciated how Leif didn't overreact too much and tehre was actually communication in the latter half of the book.
Overall it was outstanding and I can't wait for book 2
I absolutely loved this book, it's definitely got Cruel prince vibes but for adults, which I loved, also it's quite an original idea, especially the whipping boy bit, also one thing I especially like was it was ACTUAL enemies to lovers, which is quite rare now, since they genuinely hated each other at the start.
There were so many moments with this book that I gasped at, and laughed, I loved the reveal of Collette being a girl, because the fact she got found out because of a magic necklace is hilarious for me, and I really appreciated how Leif didn't overreact too much and tehre was actually communication in the latter half of the book.
Overall it was outstanding and I can't wait for book 2
May 5, 2026
Review of advanced copy received from NetGalley.
I absolutely devoured this book, I could not read it fast enough. The story was easy to fall right into. The pacing was perfect. I was instantly captivated and lost sleep last night because one more chapter turned into finishing the last half of the book.
The tension, forbidden romance, everything was done so well. I wish there was more, it was so good! The ending was satisfying, but the story feels open for another book.
I loved the dynamic between the humans, elves and vampires. The world was very interesting! The glamour was a great twist.
I absolutely devoured this book, I could not read it fast enough. The story was easy to fall right into. The pacing was perfect. I was instantly captivated and lost sleep last night because one more chapter turned into finishing the last half of the book.
The tension, forbidden romance, everything was done so well. I wish there was more, it was so good! The ending was satisfying, but the story feels open for another book.
I loved the dynamic between the humans, elves and vampires. The world was very interesting! The glamour was a great twist.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
To Vex a Dark Prince delivers plenty of what dark fantasy romance readers crave—drama, romance, hidden identity, and a magical world filled with humans, vampires and elves ( both dark and light). The cover and description immediately draw you in and set the perfect tone for the story.
While the world‑building is on the light side and the story sometimes reads more like YA (aside from the spicy scenes), the intrigue and romance make it an enjoyable read. With more depth and development, this could have been a truly standout dark fantasy romance.
thank you Netgallery for the ARC.
While the world‑building is on the light side and the story sometimes reads more like YA (aside from the spicy scenes), the intrigue and romance make it an enjoyable read. With more depth and development, this could have been a truly standout dark fantasy romance.
thank you Netgallery for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I wish we would’ve gotten a little more background on Colette’s family. At the beginning, Colette also came across much younger than 19 to me.
I did like the talk of magic during the story and there are dark elves, light elves, and vampires. The banter and humor was enjoyable and helped keep the story fun. Since the book was on the shorter side though, I felt like a lot of details and world building were missing and overall I wanted a little more depth.
I wish we would’ve gotten a little more background on Colette’s family. At the beginning, Colette also came across much younger than 19 to me.
I did like the talk of magic during the story and there are dark elves, light elves, and vampires. The banter and humor was enjoyable and helped keep the story fun. Since the book was on the shorter side though, I felt like a lot of details and world building were missing and overall I wanted a little more depth.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Okay this was FUN!!!
My only complaint is that it was short and I want more!! This was engaging from the beginning - it sucked me right in! I loved the humor and the internal thoughts of the FMC throughout the entire book. The scenes were written in a way that clearly painted a picture in my head. I don't want to say more because I don't want to spoil it but the way the love story is about complete acceptance, regardless of specifics, warmed my heart.
This is the kind of bite sized book you want/need to get out of a reading slump. My advice: go in blind and have fun!
My only complaint is that it was short and I want more!! This was engaging from the beginning - it sucked me right in! I loved the humor and the internal thoughts of the FMC throughout the entire book. The scenes were written in a way that clearly painted a picture in my head. I don't want to say more because I don't want to spoil it but the way the love story is about complete acceptance, regardless of specifics, warmed my heart.
This is the kind of bite sized book you want/need to get out of a reading slump. My advice: go in blind and have fun!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I was uncertain about this book at first. I can't tell you why, only that I was. However I am very glad that I persisted as I ended up really enjoying it. Hidden identities, magic, enemies-to-lovers, and some humor thrown in. I will admit I kept going because I am a sucker for an enemies-to-lovers romance and I am so glad that I did. I am struggling to describe why I liked it so much without including spoilers. What I can say is that the character development is spot on and you are rooting for your favorites along the way.
Thank you netgalley for an eARC of this book.
Thank you netgalley for an eARC of this book.
August 10, 2026
4 ✨️
I had a really good time with this book and I think everyone should try it out. Its not mind bending with it's tale but it's humorous in all the right places. The pacing is great and the writing doesn't leave you hanging with waffling paragraphs or unnecessary details. Everything is thought out and I appreciate the attention to detail and love that has been put in this story.
Our characters are likable and our Prince is truly quite charming when he's not a vexing idiot.
I enjoyed every minute of the book. ✨️
I had a really good time with this book and I think everyone should try it out. Its not mind bending with it's tale but it's humorous in all the right places. The pacing is great and the writing doesn't leave you hanging with waffling paragraphs or unnecessary details. Everything is thought out and I appreciate the attention to detail and love that has been put in this story.
Our characters are likable and our Prince is truly quite charming when he's not a vexing idiot.
I enjoyed every minute of the book. ✨️
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
To Vex a Dark Prince was missing something. The story would have benefited from giving us more of the princes point of view or back story. Perhaps the author meant for us to be as in the dark as Colette was? Overall there is a good foundation but it feels like the story wasn't completely fleshed out. It doesn't explicitly say but I believe this is meant to be the start of a series. With some more depth it could be really good but as it is now it isn't something I would seek out.
August 2, 2026
This was a quick read. I enjoyed the story, but the ending seemed rushed and left me with more questions.
Review of advance copy
This book was so good that I finished it one day. Definitely seems to be a standalone but would’ve loved it to have a sequel! But by itself, it’s a fantastic book. LOVED the rom com vibe of Chapter 9!! Such a unique read and I’m looking forward to what this author writes up next!
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC!
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC!
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