Between the Rival Courts

by Victoria Mier

From the author of HOLY WRATH comes an ambitious Arthurian retelling about a banished witch and a changeling knight forced to join forces if they want to survive.

All Nyneve Or’Afon needs to do is prove herself to the Druid Elders. Then the young sorceress can go home—back to her magic and her studies, pursuing all the mysteries the world has to offer.

But there’s a rather large obstacle in her way: the handsome and cunning Sir Mordred Pendragon, knight of the Round Table and bastard son of King Arthur. From the very first moment they meet, he’s deeply suspicious of Nyneve. After all, Mordred knows exactly what an outsider with a secret looks like.

Because he is one—a faerie changeling embedded in King Arthur’s court, to be exact. And if anyone could uncover that dangerous truth, it’s the spellbinding sorceress who makes him weak in the knees … which means Mordred will do almost anything to get Nyneve out of Camelot.

But as war brews, a notorious sorcerer returns and an ancient god tests the walls of his prison, Mordred and Nyneve find their similarities growing into an inconvenient attraction—and a necessary alliance if they have any chance of surviving what’s to come.

Perfect for fans of MORGAN IS MY NAME and THE GUINEVERE DECEPTION, this heart-rending medieval fantasy explores conquest, religion, power, and—perhaps the deadliest of them all—relentless, unyielding love.

Genres: Fantasy

488 pages, Hardcover

First published May 19, 2026

Reviews

[rosie (jason todd's version)]

˙⋆✮ pre-read:

LOOK AT ME GETTING ABSOLUTELY BLESSED WITH E-ARCS LATELY OMG!! 😭💖 thank you so so much to behind the pages LLC and victoria mier for the advance copy of between the rival courts, which will be released on may 19!

[Ashley {_xamountofbooks} · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. (via Behind the Pages PR)

The immense amount of rage I feel upon finishing this has nothing to do with the author and everything to with Amazon deciding not to sync between devices, causing all my notes and favorite quotes to be erased. 🫠

The book itself? Fantastic. I loved all the characters and Rook. Really loved the slow burn with Nyneve and Mordred and their commitment to not admitting their feelings for each other. (Sure Jan, you *do* hate each other and this *is* a one time thing. Teehee.) Love a stabby FMC, her asking who did this to you to him, and him giving her a nickname. Very much looking forward to the next one!

[Jess (scijessreads) · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are two ways to approach reading Between the Rival Courts. One - read this duology first, and then read the continuation in the Fatebound duology (which are also amazing books!). Two - Read the Fatebound books first and then come into this one. By choosing path two, you are setting yourself up for maximum emotional damage (if that’s your sort of thing).

Either path you choose, you get to read about Mordred and Nyneve. Mordred is a changeling, a knight in the court of Camelot that who is also tied to the Fae, and a prophecy or sorts that has set his life hurtling toward danger at the hands of gods and fate. Nyneve is a Druid girl, fighting to get control of her own immense power and stop Arthur and Camelot from continuing to invade the lands that raised her.

She and Mordred are enemies. Enemies that take delight in fighting each other while also fighting a chemistry that threatens to upend all that they are both fighting so hard to defend.

There is intrigue and corruption of faith in an effort to expand power throughout the book. Mordred and Nyneve have an uphill battle on all fronts, and their allies are spread thin and under scrutiny. Trust is scarce, and the threads of love are buried under the weight of expectation and actions set forth long before our reluctant heroes even meet.

As always, Victoria writes angst and fury and legend in prose that wraps around you and invites you to sink deeper. We get an MMC that will harm himself before the FMC, even though he tries so hard to hate her. We get an FMC that is bottling up her rage and just waiting for the right target to release it upon. We get a kingdom at war both from without and within, with a king that is willing to follow a god he does not believe in for the power that he is promised to gain.

I loved all of this book, and can’t wait to see what the next one will bring us. Knowing what comes in the Fatebound books, I know there will be more heartbreak to come, but the end result will be worth all of it.

Thank you to the author for the ARC. All opinions are my own.

[KMart Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Y'ALL. I am so obsessed with these two. Two secret outsiders who are simultaneously enemies of the court and enemies of each other, neither willing to admit a single feeling, both completely failing at not falling for one another. I loved every second.

The slow burn is genuinely excellent and the moment they finally fall for each other while each assuming the other hasn't is exactly the kind of thing that makes my heart ache. The spice leans emotional rather than explicit and it works perfectly. The yearning and the angst carry so much more weight than anything else could have. Poetic and beautiful without ever tipping into purple prose.

The story itself is every bit as strong as the characters. I love when Arthurian retellings play with what we think we know about these characters and this one finds unexpected facets in familiar figures that genuinely surprised me. The fae here feel properly cruel and alien rather than just humans with pointy ears, which I always appreciate. The sapphic rep is wonderful and I adored the friendly dynamic between Guin and Arthur even when his choices frustrated me.

The ending is heartbreaking. I need the next one immediately and I'm also grabbing the first duology as soon as possible.

Absolutely obsessed. Grab this one.

Thanks so much to Behind the Pages PA and the author for the complimentary copy. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.

[Samantha Hardesty · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Steal whatever remains of my sanity, little thief. You already have my heart.”

This book consumed me in the best possible way. I was completely swept up in Mordred & Nyneve’s TRUE enemies-to-lovers romance, and the whole story surrounding it. And excuse me, that tension? I was SWEATING 🥵

I love Arthurian folklore so to have that and add in fae, it’s like this book was made for me. Everything from the banter and found family, to the tension and heartbreak (HOW COULD YOU VICTORIA) had me completely hooked. The fact I have to wait until next year for book two is a crime, but I’ll no doubt spend the time swooning over Mordred anyway 😏

Aside from how much I loved the story, I especially enjoyed Victoria’s writing. It just felt so fitting for the Arthurian folklore vibe - it was perfect.

Thank you to much to Behind the Pages & Victoria for an eARC of this one. I cannot wait to read the next part AND to dive into the other duology too 👀

[Lizinfiction · Rating 5 out of 5]

**** ARC received by Behind the Pages PA****
Camelot retelling
Hidden identities
Court politics
Hate to Love
She tries to unalive him multiple times
He leaves her “gifts”
Banter
Found family

Really interesting and fun retelling of Camelot. In this world Merlin is our villain who has recently converted to the resurrected god’s religion (Christianity). The kingdom of Camelot was a safe a happy place for most of the citizens until Merlin and his monks return from their quest in search to help the King and Queen conceive a legitimate heir. Quickly the Queen and her advisors see that this new religion is extremely oppressive and that there are more nefarious reasons behind Merlin’s return to Camelot.
Our FMC Nyneve is a Druid sorceress who has been tasked with infiltrating Camelot’s court to show her control of her unruly and powerful magic. She isn’t the type of woman that lets a pretty face distract her but when she steals the horse of the kings bastard son Mordred she realizes there is much more to the dark handsome knight.
Mordred was created for one reason and one reason only to be a weapon that will bring on a new dawn to Camelots court, but maybe fate has different plans for him in the form of a powerful Druid woman with red hair.
These unlikely heroes must learn to work together in order to not only save Camelot but also the court under the hill.
The banter is absolutely excellent in this book, I’ve really enjoyed both main characters, I feel that they both showed great character development.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such an excellent, dark, and thrilling Arthurian retelling. The characters are fierce and well-written, Merlin provides an excellent villain full of sly and twisted doings, and Arthur… well, honestly, he’s never been my favourite.

This retelling focuses more on the woman of Camelot and its court with Mordred the MMC and it is so refreshing and delightful to have powerful, intelligent women refusing to be less than they are. This underpins the entirety of the story which is so full of magic and tension which builds to a terrible ending that left me feeling angry and helpless.

Highly recommend and I absolutely need the second book.

[Lucia]

Thank you NetGalley for the eARC!

[Taylor Chesnet · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is everything I’ve ever wanted. It strikes a great balance of fantasy with romance rather than a romantasy where the love story is the focus. I loved the arthuriana setting with knights and the feminist play on a classic story. The world is immersive and the characters layered. I’m on the edge of my seat for the sequel

Thanks again for the ARC!

[Giulia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m so, so grateful for this ARC opportunity — thank you to Victoria Mier and Behind the Pages PA for giving me the chance to read this incredible story early!

I absolutely loved this book. It’s been such a long time since I felt this completely sucked into a story from beginning to end. The atmosphere, the setting, the plot twists, the court politics, the lore — everything felt so rich and immersive. Every chapter pulled me deeper into the world, and I genuinely never wanted to leave it.

I loved all of the main characters, but Mordred and Nyneve completely stole my heart. Mordred is such a deeply tortured and complex character, and watching him navigate everything weighing on him was genuinely heartbreaking at times. Nyneve, meanwhile, is one of the strongest female characters I’ve read in a long time — fierce, intelligent, vulnerable, angry, compassionate, and so incredibly layered. She might honestly become one of my favorite female characters ever.

And honestly, the entire cast was fantastic. Even the minor characters felt memorable and fully alive, which made the world feel even richer. Also, honorable mention to Rook — I love you forever.

But can we PLEASE talk about the romance? FINALLY an enemies-to-lovers that actually deserves the title. These two genuinely hate each other at points — they try to stab, kill, or maim each other multiple times — yet despite themselves, despite all the anger and resentment, they still care for each other in ways they can’t fully deny. That tension was EVERYTHING. Their relationship felt messy, painful, obsessive, and real in the best possible way. And the reverse “who did this to you?” trope??? Absolutely destroyed me.

I also really appreciated the social commentary woven throughout the story, especially regarding women, women’s magic being treated as lesser, and the feminine rage that grows from that oppression. It added so much emotional depth and weight to the narrative.

As someone who loves English and Welsh folklore, I adored all the lore and commentary about how Roman/Briton colonization and religion reshaped England — and Wales in particular. It made the world feel hauntingly believable and grounded in history while still feeling magical. And THANK YOU for making the fae actually scary again.

By the end of this book I was absolutely devastated and crying my eyes out — which maybe isn’t shocking considering I’m a Pisces, but STILL. This book completely wrecked me emotionally in the best way possible. And now I desperately need the next book immediately because there is no way I can just sit here after THAT ending.

All in all, this was an unforgettable read and an easy 5 stars for me. A must-read for fantasy lovers, especially if you love dark folklore, brutal court politics, terrifying fae, devastating emotional damage, and a true enemies-to-lovers romance.

[Kayla · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is one of those that really deserves attention, so I hope that it ends up getting it. I went into this one with low expectations because trying an author for the first time, you're never really sure if their writing and story telling will vibe with you or not. My expectations could have been sky high, though, and Victoria Mier would have reached them.

The writing itself is so freaking good that I found myself rereading paragraphs just because the flow was so clean, the verbiage so well chosen, that I had to take time to just enjoy it. People don't tend to like third person, but this book is a prime example of how it's not the perspective, it's the writing. This is, without a doubt, how you write third person and really capture your reader. If you don't normally enjoy third person, I challenge you to read this one because I promise that it will change your mind.

The characters in this book are so beautifully crafted and fleshed out. Nyneve is a spitfire, a loud personality that struggles in this setting but pulled off in a way that's believable and relatable. Her questioning of herself is genuine and her journey to rectify it is human in a way that acknowledges but doesn't punish mistakes. Mordred is a two sided coin where one face is the man he allows everyone to see (and convinces himself is all there is of him) and the opposite is a creature so full of longing that it could swallow him whole. He's handed a fate he can't avoid, and yet can't help but want to avoid all together or at least for as long as possible. Guinevere is a powerhouse of wit, chess like moves that most overlook, and a heart of gold. I love her written this way, as a woman fully embracing her position and doing everything in her power to do what she believes is right. And that's just three of many, all of which are really well done.

The story keeps the elements you know and love from Arthurian tales, but shifts and twists some things to make them new and fun. I liked the twist of the villain not being the one the Fates try to convince everyone of, and how the magic of this world is woven into all of it. The play on religion was a very smart and interesting take as well, and I like how it was woven in so subtly that you don't realize what's going on until it's too late, just like the characters.

Nyneve and Mordred are such enjoyable characters to read together. Each time they're in a scene together, the push and pull between them, the verbal sparring, the teasing of saying one thing when we as readers know it's the opposite, it's all perfection. The inner questioning of both characters, the fear, all makes the build up between these two feel so genuine and unavoidable in the best way. I'm honestly so scared for what comes for their relationship in the next book, but I really need to know what comes next.

Overall, this book far exceeded my expectations. Victoria Mier is now an author who's books I will dive into without hesitation because I trust she will deliver a well written and beautifully crafted tale. I highly, highly recommend giving this one a try so that you too can struggle to wait for the next book to find out what happens.

[Sage · Rating 5 out of 5]

Between the Rival Courts by Victoria Mier - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

First of all: thank you so much to Behind the Pages LLC and Victoria Mier for the eARC!

Between the Rival Courts is the first in a prequel duology to the Fatebound duology by Victoria Mier. While I was not familiar with the Fatebound series before reading this, I can assure y’all you don’t need any prior knowledge of those titles to enjoy this one, but you will ABSOLUTELY want to dive into them after finishing this! I know I did 🤭
This book is a delightfully written, dark, thrilling, romantic Arthurian retelling, following Nyneve, a Druid sorceress, and Sir Mordred Pendragon, an Arthurian knight, changeling, and Fae weapon destined to be destroyed in the coming battle between Man and Fae. Mordred is tasked with removing Nyneve from court, but their rivalry soon transforms into something more amid a brewing war.
I ADORED this book! The worldbuilding and magic system was intuitive and immersive, and the focus on women in King Arthur’s court was delightful— Guinevere is a powerhouse all her own! The characters are beautifully fleshed out, flawed and real and complicated in the best way. The story keeps the elements you know and love from Arthurian tales, but shifts and twists some things to make them new and fun. I loved the twist of the villain not being the one the Fates try to convince everyone of, and how the magic of this world is woven into all of it.
The play on religion was a fascinating take as well, and I adore how it was woven in so subtly that you don't realize what's going on until it's too late, just like the characters.
The verbal sparring between Nyneve and Mordred was so much fun to read, their chemistry is undeniable even when they’re convinced they hate each other! And those “I didn’t know where else to go” and “Who did this to you?” scenes… WHEW!!
The end of this book absolutely WRECKED me— I was a mess by the end of the last chapter in the absolute best way possible, and to be completely honest I need the next book NOW; how can I be expected to just sit here after THAT ending??
All in all, this was an absolutely unforgettable read and an easy 5 stars for me. A must-read for fantasy lovers, especially if you love dark folklore, brutal court politics, terrifying fae, devastating emotional damage, and a true enemies-to-lovers romance.

[Terri McCarrell · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW! I'm not sure where to start with this one, but I'm going to tell you right up front...THIS IS A MUST READ!

Victoria Mier has written an Arthurian dark medieval fantasy, with a twist on King Arthur/Merlin folklore. This one has druids, sorcerers, high fae, political intrigue...it packs a full whollop.

The writing is beautiful and very suited to the Arthurian style. I so appreciate the choice to stay with naming choices that were indicative of the time of the Knights of the Round Table. There was no unnecessary modernization of the time period in storytelling, allowing for full immersion into the world. I will read every book Mier writes, after being absolutely blown away by her writing and ability to tell a story in this one.

This is third person POV, but unlike some books in the point of view, it was fully capable of conveying thoughts, feelings and emotions from characters. I barely even noticed that it wasn't a first person POV, because I felt so imbedded into the characters' psyches.

Now, one of the key things I want to speak on in this book. Enemies to lovers. There are a million authors that will market this trope. Very few books will be so perfectly written as a TRUE enemies to lovers. I mean, these two HATED each other. Permit me to provide you with some quotes to seal this opinion: "I fear I would start a war just for the sake of finding myself between your thighs again, your blade pressed to my neck."
"I don't need you" "No," he agreed, tracing her jawline. "But you want me. And you hate me for it." (this is at 71%, so when I tell you enemies to lovers, slow burn....IT IS!!)

Additionally, when a trigger warning tells me that it includes weaponized religion? I'm all the way in on this author already. One quote on this topic that absolutely stunned me with its perfection: "There are many men who seek to twist the words of Christ into a new way to dominate, and women who gleefully ride beside them for reasons I cannot fathom." I mean.... incredible.

I simply have to have the next book ASAP. This was fantastic, haunting, dark, beautiful, magical...all of it. I need more.

I received this ARC from Behind the Pages, LLC and Victoria Mier. I am so appreciative of the opportunity to read this in advance, and all opinions are my own.

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Advance reader copy sent by the Author and Behind the Pages LLC

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ stars

What to expect:
✨ Everyone is morally grey
⚔️ Feminine rage
✨ Real enemies to lovers
⚔️ He falls first
✨ Unhinged women
⚔️ Star crossed lovers
✨ Forced proximity
⚔️ Religion
✨ Arthurian retelling

Wow what a book. I was pulled in from the very beginning and that continued all the way to the end.

We follow our FMC Nyneve Or'Afon a banished witch who needs to prove herself to the Druid Elders.
Once she has she can return home and unbind her powers.
I loved Nyneve she is a total badass you don't want to mess with. She is strong and confident.
So she sets of too Camelot to complete her task, but something stands in her way...

Our MMC Sir Mordred Pendragon, a faerie changeling knight of the Round Table and bastard son of King Arthur who is embedded into King Arthurs court.
Now he thinks Nyneve is hiding who she really is, and he is determined to find out.
I loved Mordred's character.

Nyneve and Mordred need to work together to stop a notorious sorcerer, Merlin and an ancient god trying to escape.

Now this is a true enemies to lovers, they hate each other and try to kill each other on quite a few occasions. 🫣
But somewhere along the way they find they are not so different and hate becomes love.

" I could never be your friend because I'm a selfish wicked thing. Going another moment without being your lover will destroy me faster than any prophecy."

The chemistry between these two was off the charts 🔥

"Spread your legs for me little thief." he murmured. "I want to be thorough."

The banter between the two was fantastic.

The plot was great, the pacing was perfect. Kept you interested and wanting to know more.

The world building was phenomenal very immersive and well written.

"Steal whatever remains of my sanity, little thief. You already have my heart." 😍

"I have all of you, Mordred ' Nyneve said against his lips. "You belong to me."

That ending 🤯WOW! Excuse me!
I need book 2 immediately.

Thank you to the Author and Behind the Pages LLC for sending me an arc copy of this book.

[Kimberly Carroll · Rating 4 out of 5]

Between the Rival Courts ended up being a very different reading experience than I expected — and honestly, better because of it.

I originally came into this expecting a more traditional romantasy with big battles, fast-moving twists, and a central romance driving the story. Instead, this book delivers something much quieter, more political, and far more character-focused. The conflict here isn’t built around nonstop action scenes. It’s built through conversations, shifting loyalties, ideology, court politics, religious tension, and the slow realization that entire systems are changing underneath the characters. And somehow that made the stakes feel even heavier.

What really surprised me most was how much I loved the female characters in this story. Nyneve, Guinevere, and Morgana all represent very different kinds of power, and I appreciated how the book explored the ways women survive, maneuver, and protect each other within systems that were never designed for them. There’s a lot of nuance in how the story handles oppression, influence, and the quiet forms of resistance women create for themselves.

I also have to mention Galen because he became one of my favorite characters in the entire book. He brought such a grounded emotional presence to the story, and every scene with him carried weight in a very human way.

The romance itself worked well for me too, especially because it never felt disconnected from the larger themes of the story. The emotional tension, trust, and vulnerability between the characters develop alongside the political and magical conflict rather than existing separately from it.

The pacing is definitely slower and more deliberate than many fantasy romances, especially in the first half, and I do think readers going in expecting constant action may need time to settle into what this story is actually trying to do. But once I adjusted my expectations, I became completely invested in the atmosphere, the layered character work, and the growing sense of dread underneath everything happening in Camelot.

By the end, I was far more emotionally attached to these characters — and this world — than I expected to be.

[Leah Moore · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️

Talk about a book that grabs you immediately and makes you not want to put the book down! An Arthurian retelling with a Druid sorceress and a changeling Fey knight who must join forces to survive.

Our story starts with Nyneve, a Druid sorceress with a troubled past, stealing the horse of a man who appears to be apart of the King’s guard. She uses the horse to take her to the kingdom of Camelot in hopes of sanctuary. But really, she has been tasked with becoming apart of King Arthur’s court in order to have her magic unbound.

The man whose horse was taken? Yeah, that’s Morded, King Arthur’s bastard son, shock, and he’s also Fey. Mordred was created to be a weapon, he doesn’t love. Sure, he’s got a soft spot for some of the humans, but love? He’s not capable of such things! But this girl. There’s something different about her. There’s attraction between them immediately, but they hate each other and even try to stab one another a few times.

The King and Queen of Camelot are having problems conceiving a child. Merlin, the King’s sorcerer, and his monks leave to try and find a way to help them in their endeavor. Sounds like Merlin is a good guy right? Wrong! Upon Merlin’s return, he brings back the resurrected Gods religion (Christianity). But, is it really? With the monks acting the way they are, it’s very suspicious. Our Queen is a badass in her own, and holds a small amount of power to the court. She works tirelessly to make laws to protect her women in the kingdom. She hates Merlin, while the King continues to let Merlin run amuck.

Together, Nyneve and Mordred must protect the humans from the Fey who want their land back. As well as protect the humans from Merlin, who is collecting power and trying to raise an old God under the guise of Christianity.

The story is compelling, and easy to get lost in! The women in this story are not diminished and they will fight back. I loved this story so much and will absolutely be reading book 2!

Shoutout Galen for being my favorite character. There’s something special about a comforting male character that loves women and wants to help.

Thank you to Behind the Pages and Victoria Mier for the e-arc!

[McKenzie Lowe · Rating 5 out of 5]

This has actually become my new obsession in my ARC reads. Victoria Mier does a fantastic job in this King Arthur retelling style where there is also a mixture of Fae and Druids. Not once did I ever think of putting these elements together, but they work SO WELL. Nyneve provides a powerful FMC that takes no shit from anyone. She thrives in her independence and makes it known that she is fighting back against the constraints placed on woman during this time. Mier wrote a book that highlights the importance of almost a female revolution where important women figureheads plot against the patriarchy in ways that don't require brute force, but with their minds and strategy. In every female character I came across, each one of them brought their own strength. Whether that be in magic, strategy, or embracing their femininity. All the women made sure to provide the bad assness throughout their own journeys.
Mordred is a force to be reckoned with as well being the MMC that has no problem giving Nyneve her freedom, but will do anything to protect her. He gives all the broodiness while also showing small displays of carefulness and understanding when helping Nyneve find herself and embracing her power. He never shys away from her sharp tongue or the challenges she brings. In fact, he embraces it and takes it head on. Watching him go through his own emotions and constant inner turmoil with his prophecy while also balancing the want and need to protect the people he cares for deeply was a dichotomy that I thoroughly enjoyed reading. "I know my fate so I want to be closed off from others, but damn it I have come to really care and love these people" will always be my favorite micro trope when reading because it just goes to show how diverse Mordred is in his emotions. He is more than just a tool for war. He is an individual with deep rooted feelings and wants.
Victoria Mier wrote a story that I will be frothing at the mouth for when it comes to book #2. Until then, I will be thinking about how Nyneve and Mordred, along with all the other important characters, are going to save Camelot. Give this a read when it comes out May 19th!

[Caitlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nyneve Or’Afon arrives in Camelot determined to prove herself to the Druid Elders so she can finally return home to her studies. Instead, she immediately finds herself at odds with Sir Mordred Pendragon, the sharp-tongued knight of the Round Table who seems unusually determined to drive her away. What Nyneve doesn’t know is that Mordred has secrets of his own: beneath his position in Arthur’s court, he is a faerie changeling hiding in plain sight. As political tensions rise and old powers begin to awaken, their growing mistrust slowly gives way to an alliance, and then an attraction neither of them particularly wants.

I honestly cannot recommend this enough. This is easily one of my favorite fantasy ARCs I’ve read in a very long time, and it absolutely lived up to its premise. Nyneve is an excellent protagonist: powerful and fully aware of her own capabilities without feeling over-the-top or untouchable. Mordred is equally compelling in an entirely different way: tragic, morally questionable, charming in all the worst ways. Exactly the sort of love interest you know is going to ruin lives and can’t help falling for anyway. The writing strikes a fantastic balance between atmosphere, action, and dialogue, and I consistently found myself reading far longer than I intended every time I picked it up.

You can feel from the beginning that this story is going to hurt, but somehow it still lands every emotional blow with full force anyway. There were multiple moments that genuinely made me gasp out loud. The Arthurian elements also feel fresh without losing the mythic atmosphere that makes those stories compelling in the first place. Even without being deeply familiar with the source material, I was completely invested in this interpretation and the world surrounding it. I need the sequel immediately, and the wait for it is going to be almost as painful as the story itself. Many thanks to the author and Sarah from Behind the Pages LLC for this ARC. This is my honest review.

5/5 Now to pick up the shattered pieces of my heart...

[achaserigtrup · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely perfect prequel to one of my most beloved duologies. For fans of the Fatebound Duology, Arthurian legend, Welsh mythology, and those of us who need all the yearning and banter, this book is for you. It was vicious, touching, passionate, and absolutely romantic. Mier’s prose, character development, and pacing was perfection.

Some favorite quotes in no particular order:

“He gazed into her eyes, trying to memorize what it felt like for Nyneve Or’Afon to look at him like she was willing to fight the entire world as long as he was at her side.”

——

“But Nyneve knew she was going toward Mordred. She wondered if all she had ever done was go toward the faerie knight without even realizing it, Fatesongs looping like the tail of a snake.”

——

“So be a monster, Nyneve,” he murmured, their mouths brushing. “Show me your sharpest teeth.”

——

“Mordred drew in a deep breath when their eyes met. The Druid girl did not understand that she must be so, so careful what she asked of him. He did not know if he could say no.”

——

“It was a desperate thing to live in a world so broken that the fierceness with which he loved Nyneve Or’Afon was meaningless.”

——

“More, little thief. Show me all that hate of yours.”

——

“But Mordred offered her no pained wince or startled gasp. Instead, he captured her gaze again, his mouth parting to release a low, hoarse groan that sounded much more like pleasure than pain.

She fucking hated him.”

——

“Being seen by her, even if not fully, made him feel like flesh and blood, not bones already rotting on a battlefield.”

——

“She had no one to blame but herself, and yet she still found herself furious with the entire world. She was not evil. She was only what the gods had made her.”

——

“If agony was his destiny, by the fucking gods, he would choose its source.”

I received an Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for an honest review. Many heartfelt thanks to Victoria and the Yearning Apostles.

[honestlyjaen · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.75★

Even though I barely know anything about Arthurian mythology other than the names Merlin and Arthur, I swear I really enjoyed this book sm! The dark retelling combined with fae folklore was perfectly executed, and I couldn’t stop myself from reading it. Truthfully, I found myself getting confused at times about how the magic system worked, though that was on me; it never failed to keep me immersed in the world.

And istg, I think the enemies-to-lovers in this book outdid all the others I’ve read so far. The hatred between Nyneve and Mordred was so intense that they were always at each other’s throats, despite the pull they felt when they were around each other. They were literally flirting while threatening each other 😮‍💨

Nyneve is such a bold and sharp-witted girl, and I love how she never fails to think her way out of even the most dire situations. That’s what made Mordred attracted to her despite all his denial. He even admitted how clever Nyneve was, as she always found a way to outdo him, even though he was usually one step ahead. And Mordred literally couldn’t resist getting under her skin 😼

Mordred, despite his power and strong influence over the Fey court, never desires the throne and would do anything to maintain the fragile peace between the High Court and Camelot. He literally defies his nature once he starts to care for mortals and becomes determined to prevent the prophecy that could lead to his doom.

I love how each character shines, and the trust between Arthur, Mordred, and Guinevere is so admirable despite the prophecy about his illegitimate son. The Queen plays a very important role in the plot, and I wonder what King Arthur is truly planning, because I still hold onto hope that he will get things right.

Anyway, I’m glad the author gave an early heads-up about when the sequel will be released, and thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing the ARC in exchange for my honest review. I’m really looking forward to how the story will unfold in the next book✨

[Tiffany’s Tomes · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to author Victoria Mier and Behind the Pages PA for allowing me the opportunity to read and review an ARC of Between The Rival Courts, available now.

⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 🌶️🌶️/5

This is a retelling based around King Arthur and the knights of the round table which is not something I see often. As someone who finds medieval retellings intimidating, this is an excellent book to break into the subject. The pacing was steady, a little slower but I found this helpful as I struggle to keep track of characters at the beginning (it was the names guys, so many unique names).

Our main characters Nyneve and Mordred were easily lovable. Nyneve is strong and fierce from the beginning and her character growth comes more in the form of developing relationships and trust with those around her. Mordred is exactly what you expect him to be, a dark tormented knight bound by prophecy. I’d actually like to highlight the authors ability to create strong and bold side characters. I often see side characters used more for comic relief purposes but each of the side characters played a strong roll in the plot and aid in the main characters growth. Galen and Elaine are perfect examples of support for Nyneve’s growth throughout the story.

World building is something I find imperative to stories but can also easily make or break a story for me. Too much distracts from the plot, not enough can leave readers wanting. This story takes place in Camelot and the author did a nice job of painting the forests and the citadel throughout the reading. Rather than info dumping each area, she added a bit more or a new detail each time characters visited certain areas so as the story progresses we saw more and more of the world.

While I do fear King Arthur retellings may not be for me, this was an excellent book to test the waters with. It was engaging and the plot was interesting. If you’re looking for a good King Arthur retellings or a place to start with medieval reads, this one is for you!

[aishareadsnrambles · Rating 5 out of 5]

REVIEW- 4.5 stars
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

STORYLINE :
I only have peripheral knowledge about Arthurian/ Merlin legends. I had to go and research after finishing this book. I loved this feminist retelling. Women were front and center, and most of the villains were men.
Anyway, we have MCs, Nyneve a human who was raised by the magical druids and Mordred the 'weapon' Who's finding it difficult to choose between humans and the feys as a changeling eho lives among humans. I loved how they started hating each other's guts and being wary of each other to being close partners. They were perfect for each other.
I liked how the underlying tension and brewing war was written in a way that you could understand all necessary factors involved. I also liked how Guinivere and Morgana were portrayed in this book. It was a good, enchanting and unique storyline.

CHARACTERS:
The FMC was a win for me from the beginning. I've always loved strong FMCs like Nyneve. The other characters needed some getting used to, especially the MMC, who had a bit of a morally grey streak going.
But, both MCs were unique in their own ways, and they both had a lot of secrets. My favourite part of the characters was that Nyneve always gave as good as she got from Mordred. She never let him win, and I loved that.

WRITING STYLE:
The writing style was okay. There were a lot of elements in the book, and I was able to understand everything without any confusion. But, it was a bit slow, but I'll forgive it since it's a duology.

SETTINGS:
The settings were well done from the courts, the clinic, the Druids, Feys, etc. It really felt like I was there. It was well described.

OVERALL:
This was a very good book. I couldn't stop reading it. I loved the reinvented legends. The characters and pacing were also good. I can't wait to read the next book in the duology!

[⊹ ࣪ ˖ Nikkireads ⊹ ࣪ ˖ · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a companion novel to the Fate Bound duology, this story follows Nyneve, a Druid witch, and Sir Mordred Pendragon, a changeling knight. Instead of following Arthur’s son in the traditional sense, this retelling gives us something darker, more magical, and completely its own. We also get Guinevere as a true powerhouse of a queen, fighting for what she believes is right no matter the cost.

Mordred is tasked with getting rid of Nyneve, but when war begins to brew and an ancient god stirs, the two are forced to work together. What starts as distrust and sharp edges slowly turns into a dangerous attraction neither of them can escape.

Nyneve and Mordred absolutely made this book for me. Nyneve is strong, resilient, and carries her burdens like armor. Mordred is broody, fierce, and so complex, with that perfect “who did this to you?” energy. He is a changeling, a creature made rather than born, crafted from a wound torn in the midnight sky by Nyx and the Morrigan. He feels less like a man and more like a weapon, and I loved watching the layers of his character unfold.

Their romance was true enemies to lovers. They fight each other, fight the pull between them, and fight the fate that seems determined to draw them together anyway. The tension was everything.

The world building, the plot, the characters, the tension, the folklore, every single piece of this story was written so well. It felt layered and immersive without ever losing the emotional pull between Nyneve and Mordred.

I also loved that this wasn’t a traditional retelling. Merlin as the villain was such a fun twist, and the court politics, folklore, and darker magic made the story feel fresh and captivating. The writing was beautiful, the atmosphere was rich, and the way the mythology was woven in made this feel like a retelling with its own heartbeat.

Thank you JV Ventures LLC and NetGalley for this ARC!

[Cait · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let’s go back to the beginning…

Between the Rival Courts is a prequel to one of my favorite series, The Fatebound duology. In this story, we witness the start of an epic, heart-breaking romance between Nyneve and Mordred. Both are fighting for their place in the world, seemingly at odds with each other, and keeping secrets that could upend everything.

This book is a gorgeously atmospheric and lushly written romantic fantasy set during the reign of King Arthur. As a long-time lover of Arthurian legend, I can confidently say that Victoria Mier has re-kindled my love for this lore. Her imagining of this world, filled with familiar characters given a fresh perspective, immediately made me feel as though I’d been transported to Camelot as I read this story.

Nyneve is one of my favorite characters - hands down. From the first page, I was deeply invested in her plight. Nyneve is quick-witted, resourceful, a little cruel, and sharp-tongued. I loved seeing her grow throughout this story and discover her motivations and desires. She was a multi-faceted character and I loved seeing so many different sides of her.

Including the side that could not stand the dark knight, Mordred. From the moment of their first interaction, I was on the edge of my seat every time these two faced off. If you love enemies to lovers - this is the book for you! I was gasping, laughing, and swooning every time these two tried to harm each other and ended up in a heated situation.

I knew very well how perfectly Victoria can write characters that I fell head over heels for - and she did it again. Mordred was everything I hoped for in a cursed, brooding, down bad knight who couldn’t help but immediately become entranced with the short, fiery redhead sorceress. It was magic, pure and simple. I could not put it down!

[Yolanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Arthurian retellings. The Mists of Avalon started that obsession for me, and ever since, I have never said no to a new take on those legends. But Between Rival Courts? This one is on another level. I LOVED this book.

The spin on the story felt so fresh and unique, and I was hooked almost immediately. It manages to take familiar elements and twist them just enough that everything feels new again, without losing that classic Arthurian magic.

This story is told from the perspectives of Mordred and Nyneve Or’Afon, a druid exiled from her clan. Together, they navigate court politics and a kingdom on the brink of war, and I loved every second of it. What really stood out to me is how the story flips your expectations. The lines between heroes and villains are blurred in the best way, making you question everything you think you know about these characters.

The writing is beautifully descriptive without being overwhelming. Camelot isn’t this perfect, shining city. It feels real, layered, and full of problems, which made the world so much more immersive.

And Mordred… I don’t think I’ve ever loved a version of him this much. Here, he’s a Fey changeling rather than Arthur’s son, which adds such an interesting twist to his character. Watching him discover things about himself alongside Nyneve was one of my favorite parts of the book.

Speaking of Nyneve, I loved her. Strong, determined, and carrying her own burdens, she was such a compelling character. And the romance between her and Mordred? Exactly what I want from a story like this. Slow burn, full of tension, with banter that was absolutely delicious.

If you love Arthurian retellings, court politics, and a romance that builds and builds, you need to read this. Highly recommend.

[Georgia R · Rating 5 out of 5]

Firstly, thank you so much for the opportunity to read this as an ARC!

Another Arthur/Camelot retelling? How could that possibly be good? WRONG! IT WAS AMAZING!

Look, all of my knowledge of Arthur/Camelot comes from Monty Python’s The Holy Grail and the ABC Merlin, so I was already coming in from a weird angle (except we all knew Morgana was going to be hot, right?). ALAS, this was so good.

The story is written from the POV of two outsiders (well, ish); Nyneve, a Druid sorceress and healer who has come to sneakily infiltrate Camelot and gather secrets for her people, and Mordred, Arthur’s bastard son who has more secrets than I can count on one hand. The best part is that both Nyneve and Mordred think they’re both smarter than each other when in reality they’re perfectly matched and it is TENSE.

Anyhow, things in Camelot are particularly stressful but get dramatically worse after a threat from the Fey. And so, bloody Merlin turns up like a hippie cult leader with a band of monks and the confidence of Glinda the good witch in Act 1 (‘I know, it’s great to see me, isn’t it?’). Alas, he’s the absolute worst and seems to convince Arthur that he’s going to save everybody from the Fey and the imminent war. Anyway, stuff happens and it was a great time.

I can’t even explain why I loved this too much (I am sick and words fail me). There’s magic and steamy tension and religious oppression and prejudice. It’s just a great story that will have you unwell by the end. Also, Mordred’s flavour of retribution is rather enjoyable. I can’t wait for book 2.

(Also, I just learnt the collective noun for monks is an abominable sight. But I thought, despite it being quite accurate in this context, it was a bit harsh lol.)

[Dani · Rating 4 out of 5]

As someone who read the Fatebound duology first, I was really looking forward to this prequel and the extra background it promised to add.

The story takes us back to Camelot - a time period I’m not deeply familiar with, but one where I recognise the key figures and the general setting. Nyneve is a druid who must prove herself by becoming a spy at court. Magic is a sensitive subject there, and some political decisions are far from universally accepted. Any information that might give the opposing side an advantage is therefore highly valuable. When Nyneve arrives, she is given an opportunity that allows her to step into that role.
When she meets Mordred, their early interactions are filled with mistrust and resentment. Yet, despite this, they are gradually drawn to one another. As they begin to reveal their secrets, their relationship deepens into something more meaningful.
Looking at this story on its own, I enjoyed it a great deal. Both main characters are placed in situations they had little control over, and their differences are what ultimately bring them together and help form a connection.

However, when I consider it as part of the larger series - having already read the duology - something felt slightly missing. I can’t fully explain what it is, but I didn’t feel as emotionally connected to the characters as I had hoped. The story felt both linked to the main series and somewhat separate at the same time.
That said, it still had its strong moments and was an entertaining read overall. It may simply be that this is only the beginning of the prequel arc, and the next instalment will bridge the gaps and bring everything together more fully.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Krista Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fun and magical twist on the classic tale of King Author and His Knights of the Round Table, I enjoyed the mix of previous lore and new concepts with fae/druids being brought in!

You follow two main characters, and FMC sorceress who seeks entrance into Aurthurs kingdom undercover as a lost child of host court, and the FMC knight who’s a illegitimate son of Arthur with a prophecy to cause the downfall of the kingdom. When the FMC makes her way to court, she states she’s come from the nuns, seeking her fathers place in the kingdom, but really she’s been with the druids, training her magic and there to feed them information on the court. The MMC can tell that not all is as it seems with the FMC and keeps inserting himself into her life to try to see what her true motives are. The kingdom of Arthur is facing threats from both inside and outside and the pair ends up being forced to work together to try to save as many innocents as possible!

I really enjoyed the dual POV and seeing the pair be so cautious of each other and not fully trust but also inevitably falling for one another. I also really liked all the reveals and twists throughout the story and how things slowly got more and more chaotic that left me on the edge of my seat! With such a devastating and cliffhanger ending I can’t wait to read the next book! The world building and magic are both based in previous folktales and stories, but add interesting new magics and fantasy elements that give this medieval world an exciting twist. Overall my rating 4.6/5!

Thanks to the author for the gifted copy, all opinions given are my own!

[Tori · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 4/5
I received an ARC for my honest opinion.

Between the Rival Courts pulled me in with its tension, court intrigue, and emotional undercurrents that kept me invested from beginning to end. Victoria Mier creates a world where loyalty, power, and survival constantly clash, and that uncertainty gives the story an edge that makes it hard to put down.

One of the strongest parts of this book is the atmosphere surrounding the rival courts themselves. Each side feels distinct, layered, and full of hidden motives, which adds depth to every interaction and decision the characters make. The political tension is woven naturally into the story without ever feeling overwhelmed, allowing the emotional moments and relationships to shine alongside the larger conflicts.

I also really enjoyed the character dynamics. The relationships are filled with mistrust, attraction, conflicting loyalties, and vulnerability, making them feel messy in the best way. The emotional push and pull between the characters added so much tension to the story, and I appreciated that the romance never overshadowed the plot itself. Instead, both elements worked together to create a story that felt immersive and emotionally engaging.

Another thing I appreciated was how the story balances action with quieter character-driven moments. There are scenes filled with danger and high stakes, but there are also moments where the emotional weight of everything settles in, allowing the characters to feel more human and relatable. That balance helped the story maintain a strong pace while still giving the reader time to connect with the characters.

Overall, Between the Rival Courts is an engaging fantasy filled with court politics, emotional tension, layered relationships, and enough twists to keep readers invested moving forward.

I would like to thank the author and Behind the Pages LLC for the opportunity to review this book.

[Stephanie Rhamstine · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to Behind the Pages PA for the eARC!
Listen… give me magic, political intrigue, and an Arthurian retelling and I’m immediately interested 😂 and this book definitely had some really cool ideas.
The magic system was honestly my favorite part. You could tell a lot of thought went into how the magic worked, and I loved seeing the different ways it was used throughout the story. The world building was also really immersive at times. Victoria Mier did a great job making Camelot and the surrounding world feel vivid and alive, especially with the mix of fae elements, danger, and court politics woven in.
I also really liked the premise of Mordred being a faerie changeling hidden inside Arthur’s court because that added such an interesting layer of tension to the story. The political intrigue and looming threats kept me curious enough to keep turning the pages.
That said… the pacing struggled for me. Some scenes moved so quickly that I never felt fully settled into the emotional moments before we were already rushing into the next thing. I wanted more time with the characters to really build that connection as a reader. Nyneve and Mordred both had moments where I wanted to lovingly bonk them on the head 😅 and because their relationship developed so quickly, I personally didn’t fully feel the chemistry between them.
Overall, I think this is a really interesting take on the King Arthur legend with some strong world building and magic concepts, but I just wish the character development and romance had a little more room to breathe.