What do you think?
Rate this book
Emmaline: A Story of Love in the Vale: Pitch Black Fantasy RomCom with Smexy Elves
Not yet published
Expected 23 Jul 26Emmaline is deep in her stalker era, fully convinced Lord Caelith is her fated mate.
Sure, Caelith has no idea she exists. mate bonds haven’t been a thing for centuries. And sure, his mother would rather sacrifice a small village before letting her precious son marry a low-level clerk with wildly average magic.
Luckily, Emmaline’s got a squad of three dangerously loyal friends who will cover her tracks, clean her messes, and absolutely help her ruin Caelith’s life if he breaks her heart.
The real problem? Caelith isn’t her mate. Not even close. Her actual fated mate is out there, watching this trainwreck unfold—and when fate finally smacks Emmaline in the face, it comes with blood, curses, and a very inconvenient body count.
A bit about the world
The Vale is a post-war, mythical city loosely inspired by Welsh folklore, where Ellyllon (elves) and other fae creatures live under a rigid, caste-like system that prioritizes Light magic and noble bloodlines.
Blending ancient traditions with magical technology, the city features grand castles, enchanted ballrooms, and ley-line-powered transportation alongside enchanted crystals for communication.
Though the early 21st-century human world exists beyond its borders, contact is minimal, leaving the Vale to operate as a self-contained realm shaped by its own politics, power struggles, and the ever-watchful presence of the Goddess.
Sure, Caelith has no idea she exists. mate bonds haven’t been a thing for centuries. And sure, his mother would rather sacrifice a small village before letting her precious son marry a low-level clerk with wildly average magic.
Luckily, Emmaline’s got a squad of three dangerously loyal friends who will cover her tracks, clean her messes, and absolutely help her ruin Caelith’s life if he breaks her heart.
The real problem? Caelith isn’t her mate. Not even close. Her actual fated mate is out there, watching this trainwreck unfold—and when fate finally smacks Emmaline in the face, it comes with blood, curses, and a very inconvenient body count.
A bit about the world
The Vale is a post-war, mythical city loosely inspired by Welsh folklore, where Ellyllon (elves) and other fae creatures live under a rigid, caste-like system that prioritizes Light magic and noble bloodlines.
Blending ancient traditions with magical technology, the city features grand castles, enchanted ballrooms, and ley-line-powered transportation alongside enchanted crystals for communication.
Though the early 21st-century human world exists beyond its borders, contact is minimal, leaving the Vale to operate as a self-contained realm shaped by its own politics, power struggles, and the ever-watchful presence of the Goddess.
337 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication July 23, 2026
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 231 reviews
![Profile Image for gabbie [semi-ia, new job].](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/users/1778488148i/113123744._UX200_CR0,77,200,200_.jpg)
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Who could possibly make better partners-in-crime for an unhinged elf in her stalker era than a fiercely loyal girl gang ready to hide a body at a moment’s notice, and a shadowy stalker tailing her every move?
The Vale hasn’t seen a Mate Bond in 300 years, but that’s not stopping Emmaline from deciding the Goddess has handpicked her and Lord Caelith for one. She doesn’t really know him, but she loves him. He might not know her name, but he loves her, too. He just hasn’t realized it yet. He just needs a little nudge. She follows him around, trying to orchestrate a meeting where he will truly see her so they can start their lives together, all while someone else is following her.
And through this entire unhinged romantasy rom-com, her friends are right there with her. Emmaline’s squad has that loyal, “you’re a crazy bitch, but you’re my crazy bitch” energy. They will call her out, but they will also cover her tracks. They know she’s being ridiculous, but they still have her back. The friendship gives the story much of its charm and adds a strong current of girl power, feminine rage, and protective loyalty.
There’s something relatable about Emmaline’s obsession with Caelith. They don’t even know each other. She’s in love with the version of him she’s built in her head. Who hasn’t had a crush on someone we barely knew and then filled in the blanks with whatever we wanted? The difference is that most of us did this in high school, and probably about Harry Styles, not someone in our actual vicinity. Emmaline’s crush has a teenage kind of intensity, even though the darker themes make it clear this is not really a teen story. I could understand her emotionally (because I was a teenager once), but there’s a stark contrast between her inner monologue and the darker themes unfolding beyond her thoughts.
Speaking of the darker themes, they are honestly kind of mild. Definitely check your trigger warnings, but it’s nothing out of the ordinary if you read dark romance. Not a complaint, just an observation. With how extremely dark books can get these days, I think “pitch black” sets a certain expectation that this book doesn’t quite meet. There are dark moments, but I wouldn’t call it pitch-black, and there isn’t as much stalking as you’d expect, either. It’s more of a revenge-and-friendship story with a fated mates romance tangled through it. That’s not a bad thing, but it is a different thing. It’s a fun story as long as you go into it with the right expectations.
Where the book lost me was the writing. I can see how some readers would find the prose lush, immersive and poetic, but I am not that reader. I found it both unnecessarily convoluted and not detailed enough where it mattered. A lot of things move lazily, so many things catch the light, a lot of people hum in response to things. Almost every time Emmaline speaks, words slip out against her will, or she thinks one thing and says another. She seems to have very little control of her faculties when it comes to speaking.
The atmosphere is described in great detail. Footsteps, light, sounds, voices, how someone holds their drink, and how they take a sip, and how they put the glass back down, and how determined they are when they do it. A friend walks up to Emmaline to help her with a dress, and she walks slowly, with deliberate grace. Girl, why are you walking so deliberately and menacingly right now?? Almost every action is followed by a simile, and some of them make no sense. One such example is, “like a smile meant for servants or furniture”, which raises a lot of questions about what you look like when you smile at a chair.
At the same time, the world itself is mostly implied rather than built. From the actual world-building of the Vale, which is mostly mentioned in passing and not really explained in the book (most of the context of the Vale is in the blurb), to the fact that the narration frequently forgets to tell us what sort of room we’re in. It just dives straight into what the characters are doing. You can sometimes piece together where they are based on context clues, but I would end up guessing incorrectly pretty often.
I wish the world had been described in more detail, because the blend of elven magic and modern human life is really interesting, and a great backdrop for a fantasy rom-com. They have speak-easies (phones), gliders (cars/buses), there’s a rider academy, which might make you think “ooh, dragons!” but let me stop you right there! They ride corgis. Giant, talking corgis. I wish I could provide a better description of them here because the idea is so cute, but unfortunately, they were never described in the book, only mentioned. I assume they’re just overgrown corgi dogs, but I have no idea.
There’s also the issue of the relationship between Deyric and Emmaline. I don’t want to fault the book too much for it because it is fated mates after all, but I think perhaps I had the wrong idea of what that trope would entail. I thought Emmaline would have a more gradual awakening as she got to know Deyric, that there would be some sort of inexplicable, undeniable magnetic pull between them as they got to know each other, but that’s not really what happened. It felt more like, “I don't know you but I love you because the Goddess said we’re mates”. They have like three conversations, all of which are about her being a bad stalker, things get spicy like once, and then they're in love, I guess?
This wasn’t fully for me, but it’s absolutely a great story for the right reader. That reader is probably already putting on a cloak, brewing a questionable potion, hiding evidence with the girls, and asking whether the corgis are available for getaway purposes 🔮🐕
A big thank you to NetGalley, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op and author Kristen Coar for the ARC!
The Vale hasn’t seen a Mate Bond in 300 years, but that’s not stopping Emmaline from deciding the Goddess has handpicked her and Lord Caelith for one. She doesn’t really know him, but she loves him. He might not know her name, but he loves her, too. He just hasn’t realized it yet. He just needs a little nudge. She follows him around, trying to orchestrate a meeting where he will truly see her so they can start their lives together, all while someone else is following her.
And through this entire unhinged romantasy rom-com, her friends are right there with her. Emmaline’s squad has that loyal, “you’re a crazy bitch, but you’re my crazy bitch” energy. They will call her out, but they will also cover her tracks. They know she’s being ridiculous, but they still have her back. The friendship gives the story much of its charm and adds a strong current of girl power, feminine rage, and protective loyalty.
There’s something relatable about Emmaline’s obsession with Caelith. They don’t even know each other. She’s in love with the version of him she’s built in her head. Who hasn’t had a crush on someone we barely knew and then filled in the blanks with whatever we wanted? The difference is that most of us did this in high school, and probably about Harry Styles, not someone in our actual vicinity. Emmaline’s crush has a teenage kind of intensity, even though the darker themes make it clear this is not really a teen story. I could understand her emotionally (because I was a teenager once), but there’s a stark contrast between her inner monologue and the darker themes unfolding beyond her thoughts.
Speaking of the darker themes, they are honestly kind of mild. Definitely check your trigger warnings, but it’s nothing out of the ordinary if you read dark romance. Not a complaint, just an observation. With how extremely dark books can get these days, I think “pitch black” sets a certain expectation that this book doesn’t quite meet. There are dark moments, but I wouldn’t call it pitch-black, and there isn’t as much stalking as you’d expect, either. It’s more of a revenge-and-friendship story with a fated mates romance tangled through it. That’s not a bad thing, but it is a different thing. It’s a fun story as long as you go into it with the right expectations.
Where the book lost me was the writing. I can see how some readers would find the prose lush, immersive and poetic, but I am not that reader. I found it both unnecessarily convoluted and not detailed enough where it mattered. A lot of things move lazily, so many things catch the light, a lot of people hum in response to things. Almost every time Emmaline speaks, words slip out against her will, or she thinks one thing and says another. She seems to have very little control of her faculties when it comes to speaking.
The atmosphere is described in great detail. Footsteps, light, sounds, voices, how someone holds their drink, and how they take a sip, and how they put the glass back down, and how determined they are when they do it. A friend walks up to Emmaline to help her with a dress, and she walks slowly, with deliberate grace. Girl, why are you walking so deliberately and menacingly right now?? Almost every action is followed by a simile, and some of them make no sense. One such example is, “like a smile meant for servants or furniture”, which raises a lot of questions about what you look like when you smile at a chair.
At the same time, the world itself is mostly implied rather than built. From the actual world-building of the Vale, which is mostly mentioned in passing and not really explained in the book (most of the context of the Vale is in the blurb), to the fact that the narration frequently forgets to tell us what sort of room we’re in. It just dives straight into what the characters are doing. You can sometimes piece together where they are based on context clues, but I would end up guessing incorrectly pretty often.
I wish the world had been described in more detail, because the blend of elven magic and modern human life is really interesting, and a great backdrop for a fantasy rom-com. They have speak-easies (phones), gliders (cars/buses), there’s a rider academy, which might make you think “ooh, dragons!” but let me stop you right there! They ride corgis. Giant, talking corgis. I wish I could provide a better description of them here because the idea is so cute, but unfortunately, they were never described in the book, only mentioned. I assume they’re just overgrown corgi dogs, but I have no idea.
There’s also the issue of the relationship between Deyric and Emmaline. I don’t want to fault the book too much for it because it is fated mates after all, but I think perhaps I had the wrong idea of what that trope would entail. I thought Emmaline would have a more gradual awakening as she got to know Deyric, that there would be some sort of inexplicable, undeniable magnetic pull between them as they got to know each other, but that’s not really what happened. It felt more like, “I don't know you but I love you because the Goddess said we’re mates”. They have like three conversations, all of which are about her being a bad stalker, things get spicy like once, and then they're in love, I guess?
This wasn’t fully for me, but it’s absolutely a great story for the right reader. That reader is probably already putting on a cloak, brewing a questionable potion, hiding evidence with the girls, and asking whether the corgis are available for getaway purposes 🔮🐕
A big thank you to NetGalley, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op and author Kristen Coar for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
3 stars ⭐
Firstly a huge thank you to NetGalley and the author for this arc ♡
All I can say is I want a friend group that supports my rights and especially my wrongs the way Emmaline has. Those girls will do anything to support our main character, and honestly, I'm all for it!! I did love how Emmalines friends weren't afraid to call her out on her crazy actions but still helped cover Emmalines tracks.
Our main character, Emmaline, is extremely delusional. I feel like as crazy and chaotic as she can be, it really adds to her character charm. I do wish that we got to spend more time with Deyric. I feel like we had more Emmaline and Caelith scenes together than we did with the "fated mates".
I do find this story to be more of a revenge plot than a dark romance/fated mates novel. We spent more time with Emmaline's inner circle than either of the romantic interests. In saying that, this book had me laughing and getting extreme second hand embarrassment. It's a fun short read if you're after something unique!
3 stars ⭐
Firstly a huge thank you to NetGalley and the author for this arc ♡
All I can say is I want a friend group that supports my rights and especially my wrongs the way Emmaline has. Those girls will do anything to support our main character, and honestly, I'm all for it!! I did love how Emmalines friends weren't afraid to call her out on her crazy actions but still helped cover Emmalines tracks.
Our main character, Emmaline, is extremely delusional. I feel like as crazy and chaotic as she can be, it really adds to her character charm. I do wish that we got to spend more time with Deyric. I feel like we had more Emmaline and Caelith scenes together than we did with the "fated mates".
I do find this story to be more of a revenge plot than a dark romance/fated mates novel. We spent more time with Emmaline's inner circle than either of the romantic interests. In saying that, this book had me laughing and getting extreme second hand embarrassment. It's a fun short read if you're after something unique!
Review of advance copy received from Author
It’s like if Feyre had absolutely zero survival instincts and a group chat full of enablers.
Emmaline is what happens when you mix delusional confidence, morally questionable besties, homicidal soulmate drama, and one deeply unfortunate elf man who accidentally became the target of a fantasy-flavored true crime documentary.
I came for the dark romance and stayed for the giant talking corgis, feminine rage, and the fact that every single character urgently needs therapy instead of magical powers.
The vibe is “touch her and die,” except sometimes the “her” is the problem.
10/10. Would absolutely attend the murder ball again.
Emmaline is what happens when you mix delusional confidence, morally questionable besties, homicidal soulmate drama, and one deeply unfortunate elf man who accidentally became the target of a fantasy-flavored true crime documentary.
I came for the dark romance and stayed for the giant talking corgis, feminine rage, and the fact that every single character urgently needs therapy instead of magical powers.
The vibe is “touch her and die,” except sometimes the “her” is the problem.
10/10. Would absolutely attend the murder ball again.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I have never done an ARC review before. Boy am I glad I signed up for this one. The magic is subtle in places and very unhinged in others. I started the book this afternoon and already finished it.
I love that that the FMC is smart, cunning and up to the challenge of getting her pound of flesh (honestly thought she was going to use “toys” instead of magic for her revenge; but I was pleasantly surprised with her choice in resolution). From the first moment they laid eyes on each other. You knew he was the man you wanted for her. What a love with fighting for. Goddess blessed.
Everyone I think will agree the team of misfits are a group of women you would sign up to be in a coven with and have your back always. Ursula is cool but I think Margo is the one to watch out for. She has trick up her sleeves for sure. 10/10 would recommend
I love that that the FMC is smart, cunning and up to the challenge of getting her pound of flesh (honestly thought she was going to use “toys” instead of magic for her revenge; but I was pleasantly surprised with her choice in resolution). From the first moment they laid eyes on each other. You knew he was the man you wanted for her. What a love with fighting for. Goddess blessed.
Everyone I think will agree the team of misfits are a group of women you would sign up to be in a coven with and have your back always. Ursula is cool but I think Margo is the one to watch out for. She has trick up her sleeves for sure. 10/10 would recommend
June 24, 2026
The story of Emmaline is a fated mates, fantasy romance
Ah Emmaline, so convinced that she has found her mate in Lord Caelith, becomes a little obsessed with getting him to notice her. To the point she finds herself in a very, unexpectedly, sticky situation. Her friends are amazing though, dark witch Ursula, comes to Emmaline's aid to help clean up the mess. But, magic is traceable, so Emmaline is not out of the woods yet. In the midst of trying to get Caelith to notice her, cleaning up her mistake, and preparing for the ball, Deyric seems to be ever present, annoying Emmaline to no end. Why is he always around!? Emmaline gets extremely annoyed when she has tingles of feelings for Deyric, which cannot possibly happen with Lord Caelith as her supposed mate!
I enjoyed the world of the Vale, there was some backstory here and there about the Vale itself, which I would love to read more of. Most fantasy stories have dragons and riders, but the Vale has giant Corgi's and riders!! I could not get over how cute it sounded that there are giant corgi's in this story, with healing powers. I thought this was super creative, I just love when there is something different from the norm!
And then Emmaline, I have to say she could be a bit hard headed when it came to reality and what she thought was true, even her friends pointed out the red flags about Caelith, but she refused to believe until she heard and then experienced them first hand.
But revenge is sweet, Emmaline and her friends plan quite the revenge for Caelith, that he will be dealing with for quite some time. Emmaline finally realizes who her true mate is, but will it be too late? You will have to read this fun story to find out!
Thank you so much to Kristen for a copy of this story!
Some fav quotes:
"Why did the urge to laugh always strike her at the worst possible moments?"
"A horse-sized Corgi padded past, its glossy coat catching the light. The massive creature paused, turning its head to give her a solemn nod before continuing down the hallway."
"Lady above, how many muscles did one man need? Her palm tingled from the contact, and she quickly dropped her hand, squaring her hips to steady herself."
"“Yes, Emmaline. You have my word.” His arms tightened around her. “I will protect you. Always.” Then, his voice morphed to something softer, full of wry amusement. “Even from your greatest enemy, which…” He exhaled a laugh against her shoulder. “Appears to be yourself.”"
"She hated him. Hated how his body fit against hers, how every inch of her skin burned where it touched him, how the solid weight of his arms made her feel pinned in a way that wasn’t just physical. She wanted to push him away. She wanted to pull him closer."
"“Gods, woman. Is it the insanity that lends itself to such… endurance?”"
"“Don’t get me wrong, I’m loving this bloodthirsty streak, but I need at least one drink in me before we start plotting creative ass-stabbings.”"
"“I’ll take it like the greedy lunatic I am. I’ll worship it—every second, every touch—and just when you think I’ve had my fill, I’ll beg for more.”"
"“You’re beautiful, Emmaline.” A beat. A crooked grin. “For a lunatic.”"
Ah Emmaline, so convinced that she has found her mate in Lord Caelith, becomes a little obsessed with getting him to notice her. To the point she finds herself in a very, unexpectedly, sticky situation. Her friends are amazing though, dark witch Ursula, comes to Emmaline's aid to help clean up the mess. But, magic is traceable, so Emmaline is not out of the woods yet. In the midst of trying to get Caelith to notice her, cleaning up her mistake, and preparing for the ball, Deyric seems to be ever present, annoying Emmaline to no end. Why is he always around!? Emmaline gets extremely annoyed when she has tingles of feelings for Deyric, which cannot possibly happen with Lord Caelith as her supposed mate!
I enjoyed the world of the Vale, there was some backstory here and there about the Vale itself, which I would love to read more of. Most fantasy stories have dragons and riders, but the Vale has giant Corgi's and riders!! I could not get over how cute it sounded that there are giant corgi's in this story, with healing powers. I thought this was super creative, I just love when there is something different from the norm!
And then Emmaline, I have to say she could be a bit hard headed when it came to reality and what she thought was true, even her friends pointed out the red flags about Caelith, but she refused to believe until she heard and then experienced them first hand.
But revenge is sweet, Emmaline and her friends plan quite the revenge for Caelith, that he will be dealing with for quite some time. Emmaline finally realizes who her true mate is, but will it be too late? You will have to read this fun story to find out!
Thank you so much to Kristen for a copy of this story!
Some fav quotes:
"Why did the urge to laugh always strike her at the worst possible moments?"
"A horse-sized Corgi padded past, its glossy coat catching the light. The massive creature paused, turning its head to give her a solemn nod before continuing down the hallway."
"Lady above, how many muscles did one man need? Her palm tingled from the contact, and she quickly dropped her hand, squaring her hips to steady herself."
"“Yes, Emmaline. You have my word.” His arms tightened around her. “I will protect you. Always.” Then, his voice morphed to something softer, full of wry amusement. “Even from your greatest enemy, which…” He exhaled a laugh against her shoulder. “Appears to be yourself.”"
"She hated him. Hated how his body fit against hers, how every inch of her skin burned where it touched him, how the solid weight of his arms made her feel pinned in a way that wasn’t just physical. She wanted to push him away. She wanted to pull him closer."
"“Gods, woman. Is it the insanity that lends itself to such… endurance?”"
"“Don’t get me wrong, I’m loving this bloodthirsty streak, but I need at least one drink in me before we start plotting creative ass-stabbings.”"
"“I’ll take it like the greedy lunatic I am. I’ll worship it—every second, every touch—and just when you think I’ve had my fill, I’ll beg for more.”"
"“You’re beautiful, Emmaline.” A beat. A crooked grin. “For a lunatic.”"
May 7, 2026
I’m not sure what it says about me, that I found Emmaline to be so charming! This is a story with plenty of dark elements, but somehow despite all of it, I still walked away loving the girl power elements of the story, and loving this girl group of friends!
Yes, there is a crackling romance with whip smart banter. Yes there is devious plotting. Yes there are some truly awful villains. But central to this story is the power of female friendship, and I loved this so much. All of the characters are so well written, and so real, I cried for them, I laughed with them, and I can only hope there is a Part 2, so that I can hang out with them some more.
This was a really special read, I truly feel so lucky to have had the opportunity to experience it. Huge thank you to the author for providing an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Yes, there is a crackling romance with whip smart banter. Yes there is devious plotting. Yes there are some truly awful villains. But central to this story is the power of female friendship, and I loved this so much. All of the characters are so well written, and so real, I cried for them, I laughed with them, and I can only hope there is a Part 2, so that I can hang out with them some more.
This was a really special read, I truly feel so lucky to have had the opportunity to experience it. Huge thank you to the author for providing an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
May 23, 2026
This was such an unhinged and fantastic book that was also so empowering. The womanhood and found family full of incredible ladies (and giant Corgi like whaaat haha) was so good, I want them as my friends! The spice was spicyyyy and I loved it ❤️🔥 the characters were so well written and the pain and trauma described made me feel allll the feelings. I laughed, I cried, I wanted to punch something & then I was yelling with joy & fist pumping for Emmeline lol! Also, Deyric was such a great MMC! A huge thank you to Kristen Coar for choosing me to be an arc reader & for sharing this fun world with us!
![Profile Image for Aleksandra [semi hiatus].](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/users/1755513187i/65058031._UX200_CR0,0,200,200_.jpg)
Did Not Finish
June 10, 2026Huge thanks to Kristen Coar for sending me this ARC!
I’m unfortunately deciding to DNF at 10% just because the plot didn’t manage to keep my interest. I don’t “feel” this book, and I know that continuing reading would not be good for me.
I must say though that the writing was nice, no complaints in that department. The author knows what she’s doing, that’s for sure!
And that cover is gorgeous!!!!
I’m unfortunately deciding to DNF at 10% just because the plot didn’t manage to keep my interest. I don’t “feel” this book, and I know that continuing reading would not be good for me.
I must say though that the writing was nice, no complaints in that department. The author knows what she’s doing, that’s for sure!
And that cover is gorgeous!!!!
May 4, 2026
I received an ARC and it’s honestly probably my favorite new read this year!
**CHECK YOUR TRIGGER WARNINGS BEFORE READING THIS BOOK!!**
Overall rating:🤍🤍🤍🤍🤍
Spice level:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Kristen Coar’s book “Emmaline: A Story of Love in the Vale” introduces us to Emmaline, a morally grey main character who has a knack for finding trouble. She’s surrounded by a wild group of friends that are as chaotic as they are supportive, navigating a world filled with dark romance, magical mishaps, and unforgettable moments. The vibe is all about irritation to love, with Emmaline’s obsessive quest to get her mate, Deyric, often leading her to make questionable decisions. It’s the kind of messy journey where you can’t help but root for her, even when she’s getting herself into a total trainwreck.
The bonds between Emmaline and her friends are a highlight, showcasing a fierce sisterhood that mixes laughter with a touch of madness. Her friends, like the darkly funny Ursula and the clever Margo, always have her back, no matter how over-the-top things get. There’s so much feminine rage in this story, but it’s also a celebration of women lifting each other up, even when their antics get a bit outrageous.
As the story unfolds, you’re in for a wild ride filled with magical twists and just the right amount of drama. Emmaline’s adventures pull you in, from her hilarious mishaps to moments of heartfelt realization. It’s a whirlwind of emotions where love and chaos collide, leaving you laughing, cringing, and just a little bit in love with this crazy group of misfits.
In the end, Coar’s novel is all about embracing the messiness of life and love. Get ready for a book that captures both the fun and the chaos of friendship while reminding you that sometimes, the most unexpected journeys lead to the most amazing discoveries.
**CHECK YOUR TRIGGER WARNINGS BEFORE READING THIS BOOK!!**
Overall rating:🤍🤍🤍🤍🤍
Spice level:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Kristen Coar’s book “Emmaline: A Story of Love in the Vale” introduces us to Emmaline, a morally grey main character who has a knack for finding trouble. She’s surrounded by a wild group of friends that are as chaotic as they are supportive, navigating a world filled with dark romance, magical mishaps, and unforgettable moments. The vibe is all about irritation to love, with Emmaline’s obsessive quest to get her mate, Deyric, often leading her to make questionable decisions. It’s the kind of messy journey where you can’t help but root for her, even when she’s getting herself into a total trainwreck.
The bonds between Emmaline and her friends are a highlight, showcasing a fierce sisterhood that mixes laughter with a touch of madness. Her friends, like the darkly funny Ursula and the clever Margo, always have her back, no matter how over-the-top things get. There’s so much feminine rage in this story, but it’s also a celebration of women lifting each other up, even when their antics get a bit outrageous.
As the story unfolds, you’re in for a wild ride filled with magical twists and just the right amount of drama. Emmaline’s adventures pull you in, from her hilarious mishaps to moments of heartfelt realization. It’s a whirlwind of emotions where love and chaos collide, leaving you laughing, cringing, and just a little bit in love with this crazy group of misfits.
In the end, Coar’s novel is all about embracing the messiness of life and love. Get ready for a book that captures both the fun and the chaos of friendship while reminding you that sometimes, the most unexpected journeys lead to the most amazing discoveries.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 14, 2026
ARC Book Review
Emmaline: A Story of Love in the Vale By Kristen Coar
“You really are a bit unhinged…”
That line may be one of my favorite quotes from this book, but honestly, it only begins to peel back the layers of this deeply emotional, darkly magical story.
At the heart of this novel are four very different women — Emmaline, Ursula, Cassidy, and Margo — whose ride-or-die friendship is absolutely everything. Their bond is fierce, sacred, loyal, and unbreakable. By the end, their circle grows to include Lara and Aeren, and the solidarity between these women deserves all the stars.
This book gives you friendship, fortitude, love, lust, heartbreak, hatred, vengeance, magic, mischief, and mayhem — and somehow wraps it all into a powerful fated-mates story where love truly triumphs in the end.
Caelith delivers everything you could want from a love-turned-enemy character who receives his just reward. The emotional tension is high, the stakes are intense, and the payoff is deeply satisfying.
And Deyric and Emmaline? Their connection is unforgettable. From their humorous banter to their heated passion, hidden trysts, fierce loyalty, and even the occasional well-placed spanking, they embody the kind of historic, end-of-an-age love match that lingers long after the final page.
If you are looking for a simple, basic read, this is not it. This is a layered, emotional, dark love story filled with magic, passion, friendship, pain, healing, and triumph.
If you want a book that gives you everything — romance, danger, emotion, laughter, heat, heartbreak, and victory — look no further.
This book is beautifully written, easy to devour, and absolutely deserves a place on your bookshelf.
I WILL be rereading this one again!
Emmaline: A Story of Love in the Vale By Kristen Coar
“You really are a bit unhinged…”
That line may be one of my favorite quotes from this book, but honestly, it only begins to peel back the layers of this deeply emotional, darkly magical story.
At the heart of this novel are four very different women — Emmaline, Ursula, Cassidy, and Margo — whose ride-or-die friendship is absolutely everything. Their bond is fierce, sacred, loyal, and unbreakable. By the end, their circle grows to include Lara and Aeren, and the solidarity between these women deserves all the stars.
This book gives you friendship, fortitude, love, lust, heartbreak, hatred, vengeance, magic, mischief, and mayhem — and somehow wraps it all into a powerful fated-mates story where love truly triumphs in the end.
Caelith delivers everything you could want from a love-turned-enemy character who receives his just reward. The emotional tension is high, the stakes are intense, and the payoff is deeply satisfying.
And Deyric and Emmaline? Their connection is unforgettable. From their humorous banter to their heated passion, hidden trysts, fierce loyalty, and even the occasional well-placed spanking, they embody the kind of historic, end-of-an-age love match that lingers long after the final page.
If you are looking for a simple, basic read, this is not it. This is a layered, emotional, dark love story filled with magic, passion, friendship, pain, healing, and triumph.
If you want a book that gives you everything — romance, danger, emotion, laughter, heat, heartbreak, and victory — look no further.
This book is beautifully written, easy to devour, and absolutely deserves a place on your bookshelf.
I WILL be rereading this one again!
July 5, 2026
Review of advance copy received from Author
I had a great time with this book. The first 80% was incredibly fun and easy to get through, with a light, entertaining writing style and character dynamics that kept me hooked. It was easy to settle into the story, and I found myself genuinely enjoying the journey.
Coar puts an interesting spin on familiar tropes like fated mates and enemies to lovers, making them feel fresh enough to stay engaging. While there weren’t any major surprises, that didn’t really matter. You can more or less predict where the story is heading, but the dark humor and self-aware tone make the read thoroughly enjoyable.
If the ending had maintained the same energy and vibe as the rest of the book, this would easily have been a 4-star read for me. Unfortunately, the final 20% didn’t quite work for my taste. I’m sure many readers will enjoy the direction the story takes, but some scenes felt a little forced, and a few late developments didn’t feel entirely believable to me.
I wish I could give this 3.5 stars, because I genuinely loved most of the book, but the ending just wasn’t quite for me. That being said, it’s still a solid read that provided several hours of fun, humor, and escapism.
I had a great time with this book. The first 80% was incredibly fun and easy to get through, with a light, entertaining writing style and character dynamics that kept me hooked. It was easy to settle into the story, and I found myself genuinely enjoying the journey.
Coar puts an interesting spin on familiar tropes like fated mates and enemies to lovers, making them feel fresh enough to stay engaging. While there weren’t any major surprises, that didn’t really matter. You can more or less predict where the story is heading, but the dark humor and self-aware tone make the read thoroughly enjoyable.
If the ending had maintained the same energy and vibe as the rest of the book, this would easily have been a 4-star read for me. Unfortunately, the final 20% didn’t quite work for my taste. I’m sure many readers will enjoy the direction the story takes, but some scenes felt a little forced, and a few late developments didn’t feel entirely believable to me.
I wish I could give this 3.5 stars, because I genuinely loved most of the book, but the ending just wasn’t quite for me. That being said, it’s still a solid read that provided several hours of fun, humor, and escapism.
May 28, 2026
This was a fast paced spicy short (for me) standalone that was parts unhinged and parts cringe (not derogatory).
First of all based on the trigger warnings I expected more dark humor but i found it very mild. That’s likely more related to me being desensitized than anything else. Otherwise it’s just a ridiculous action rom com where I got sooooo much second hand embarrassment for Emmaline and I am absolutely convinced that had Deryk had not been her fated mate he would have run for the hills.
Despite that, I absolutely love and FMC in her absolutely delulu era that listens to absolutely no one else, ignores every single red flag and is so wrong it’s painful to watch. You know. Like a train wreck. Basically Emmaline.
The book read really fast and it’s honestly a good palate cleanser assuming the triggers don’t, well, trigger you.
Thank you to Netgalley and the author for the arc!!
First of all based on the trigger warnings I expected more dark humor but i found it very mild. That’s likely more related to me being desensitized than anything else. Otherwise it’s just a ridiculous action rom com where I got sooooo much second hand embarrassment for Emmaline and I am absolutely convinced that had Deryk had not been her fated mate he would have run for the hills.
Despite that, I absolutely love and FMC in her absolutely delulu era that listens to absolutely no one else, ignores every single red flag and is so wrong it’s painful to watch. You know. Like a train wreck. Basically Emmaline.
The book read really fast and it’s honestly a good palate cleanser assuming the triggers don’t, well, trigger you.
Thank you to Netgalley and the author for the arc!!
June 1, 2026
ARC REVIEW - some light spoilers!
Review - 4.3 stars
Spice - 1.5/5
Fast paced story. Delusional FMC, bad ass group of women. GIANT TALKING CORGIS!!! As in the dogs!!
This was sooooo different than any other Romantasy I’ve read or listened to far. Typically, we’re used to the FMC to be the smartest, bravest and most beautiful. The one with all the answers or the one that figures everything out and just wants peace. That is NOT Emmaline. Not in the slightest! She’s the most unhinged, delusional, stubborn and almost infuriating FMC I’ve met. But, she’s also fiercely loyal to her best friends, she’s extremely protective and will go to any lengths for revenge.
Emmaline is the one the screws everything up, breaks everything and makes a massive mess of her world, along with being the one that breaks the MMCs heart. She then turns to her best friends, and in true female friendship fashion, they are there for her, even in her most muerdery moments! They accept her, lover her, protect her and help her in the same fierce manner she would do for them.
Typically, the hero in the story is the MMC, but it was Emmaline and her group of BADASS friends that came together to form the most delicious revenge and pulled it off!!
The magic system was super fun! It was subtle in certain areas, but it was also kind of wild in others. The concept of mixing light magic with black to make grey magic, is definitely something new and an interesting take on forbidden magic and how it can be the only solution to things.
I wish there was more about the corgis. Either backstory of them or more involvement. They were an incredibly cute surprise. Especially cuz I have a corgi at home!
Definitely recommend to anyone looking for a completely different and fast passed standalone type of romantasy. This isn’t your typical story.
Review - 4.3 stars
Spice - 1.5/5
Fast paced story. Delusional FMC, bad ass group of women. GIANT TALKING CORGIS!!! As in the dogs!!
This was sooooo different than any other Romantasy I’ve read or listened to far. Typically, we’re used to the FMC to be the smartest, bravest and most beautiful. The one with all the answers or the one that figures everything out and just wants peace. That is NOT Emmaline. Not in the slightest! She’s the most unhinged, delusional, stubborn and almost infuriating FMC I’ve met. But, she’s also fiercely loyal to her best friends, she’s extremely protective and will go to any lengths for revenge.
Emmaline is the one the screws everything up, breaks everything and makes a massive mess of her world, along with being the one that breaks the MMCs heart. She then turns to her best friends, and in true female friendship fashion, they are there for her, even in her most muerdery moments! They accept her, lover her, protect her and help her in the same fierce manner she would do for them.
Typically, the hero in the story is the MMC, but it was Emmaline and her group of BADASS friends that came together to form the most delicious revenge and pulled it off!!
The magic system was super fun! It was subtle in certain areas, but it was also kind of wild in others. The concept of mixing light magic with black to make grey magic, is definitely something new and an interesting take on forbidden magic and how it can be the only solution to things.
I wish there was more about the corgis. Either backstory of them or more involvement. They were an incredibly cute surprise. Especially cuz I have a corgi at home!
Definitely recommend to anyone looking for a completely different and fast passed standalone type of romantasy. This isn’t your typical story.
July 16, 2026
This was a fun, wild ride! Emmaline is delusional and purely unhinged. This girl is just crazy!
I love the character growth tho. She’s crazy but not stupid and she also isn’t evil, well that’s debatable. The friendship she has with the girls is spot on. I LOVE the giant corgis!
Kristen Coar has done it again. She brings us a bizarre but gripping story. The ending is perfect!
✨”Yes, Cassidy. I think we’ve established that I’m both delusional and an idiot. No need to rub it in.”
✨”Don’t get me wrong, I’m loving this bloodthirsty streak, but I need at least one drink in me before we start plotting creative ass-stabbings.”
This whole book is deranged but so good!!
🖤She’s the Stalker
🍷She’s Unhinged
🖤Grumpy/Insane
🍷Outlawed Magic
🖤Unhinged Revenge
🍷Giant Talking Corgis
🖤Schmurder Squad
I love the character growth tho. She’s crazy but not stupid and she also isn’t evil, well that’s debatable. The friendship she has with the girls is spot on. I LOVE the giant corgis!
Kristen Coar has done it again. She brings us a bizarre but gripping story. The ending is perfect!
✨”Yes, Cassidy. I think we’ve established that I’m both delusional and an idiot. No need to rub it in.”
✨”Don’t get me wrong, I’m loving this bloodthirsty streak, but I need at least one drink in me before we start plotting creative ass-stabbings.”
This whole book is deranged but so good!!
🖤She’s the Stalker
🍷She’s Unhinged
🖤Grumpy/Insane
🍷Outlawed Magic
🖤Unhinged Revenge
🍷Giant Talking Corgis
🖤Schmurder Squad
June 7, 2026
*Thank you to NetGalley and Kristen Coar for this gifted ARC in exchange for an honest and authentic review - All opinions are my own.*
This fated mates, magical, dark romance- was a rollercoaster of emotions from page one and it brings us THROUGH IT ALL!!
The amount of times I felt like crying for Emmaline was insane and frankly she deserves a hug. But then this girl and her gang of ride and die friends take life by the balls- literally.
The friendship group was the highlight of the book for me and everything Emmaline needed to endure the hand life dealt.
But my heart will always be a sucker for fated mates and this did not disappoint!!
This fated mates, magical, dark romance- was a rollercoaster of emotions from page one and it brings us THROUGH IT ALL!!
The amount of times I felt like crying for Emmaline was insane and frankly she deserves a hug. But then this girl and her gang of ride and die friends take life by the balls- literally.
The friendship group was the highlight of the book for me and everything Emmaline needed to endure the hand life dealt.
But my heart will always be a sucker for fated mates and this did not disappoint!!
May 16, 2026
ARC Review:
This dark fantasy romcom was amazing! She’s the stalker, with all the best friends to help her plot revenge, while making more friends along the way. Fated mates 👀 one of my favorite tropes! Dark magic, humor, and giant talking Corgis!
This dark fantasy romcom was amazing! She’s the stalker, with all the best friends to help her plot revenge, while making more friends along the way. Fated mates 👀 one of my favorite tropes! Dark magic, humor, and giant talking Corgis!
May 7, 2026
This book wasn’t what I was expecting and I’m not mad about it!!!
The FMC is absolutely DELULU BUT I loved the way her girl gang had her back no matter what! 👏🏼
4⭐️ because I was wanting a little more romance (definitely NEEDED more spankings) and maybe more depth to the connection, but it was still a fun read!
I received this book as an ARC and am leaving my review voluntarily.
The FMC is absolutely DELULU BUT I loved the way her girl gang had her back no matter what! 👏🏼
4⭐️ because I was wanting a little more romance (definitely NEEDED more spankings) and maybe more depth to the connection, but it was still a fun read!
I received this book as an ARC and am leaving my review voluntarily.
May 9, 2026
I loved this girl gang! Everyone should have friends like this!
May 13, 2026
Emmaline has a wonderful story of finding herself in a place continuously putting her down. We love a girl who gets pushed down but comes back stronger
*check your trigger warnings*
*check your trigger warnings*
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you so much to NetGalley for providing me with a digital copy of this book!
I was not expecting this to be a spicy dark romance. I'm not even joking, I think I missed that part.
But I enjoyed it nevertheless!
This was a short read, but it was packed with a lot of personality and magic and a very vivid world.
But it was also packed with some second-hand embarrassment, I could choke Emmaline and felt like banging my head against the wall every two seconds.
Alright, so, spoilers ahead. For the entire book.
Emmaline starts out as the worst FMC ever. I swear to god, she's the most obnoxious, self-centered, delusional and crazy bitch. I am so serious, she starts out as someone who truly believes the lord of her kingdom is her fated mate, despite fated mates being more like myths and not having existed for like centuries? She is incredibly delusional - no matter what her friends say or do to prove her wrong (aka point out all his flaws and all the evidence that points to him NOT being her mate), she's stuck in her ways.
This girl is so crazy she thinks she and the prince are meant to be together with literally no evidence whatsoever. It's like that one "source: it came from a dream" meme.
In the beginning, she's incredibly annoying and makes everything about Caelith. Upon killing one of his possible suitors, her first thoughts are not about the woman or the horrendous act she committed, but about how "Mate Laws" would certainly protect her.
Bitch, who EVEN said y'all were mates?
By the way, he doesn't even know her name. He doesn't even know who she is. She is his father's secretary, she has been working for his father for years, and he doesn't know she exists. Girl don't you think if y'all were mates he wouldn't have somehow felt your presence? Or some sort of pull that led him to you? He ignores Emmaline every chance he gets, and only looks at her when his advisor/friend sets his eye on her.
Luckily she had already sort of snapped out of her delusion by then but oh my God what a crazy girl. Although she's very funny, she can be kind of mean to her friends, but that changes over the book thank god. I love character developments. I went from hating her to rooting for her. She learns from her mistakes, has her eyes finally open to the truth of Caelith being a jerk and is more responsible from then on. Somewhat.
The scene where she breaks the bond with Deyric was very impactful, even though I definitely think it was rushed. First she likes Caelith and all of a sudden she is into Derek so much that she bangs him and all?
And then one chapter later, he is her mate? He doesn't sit right with me. I get that this is supposed to be a short book and things might get rushed or brushed off in favor of the vibes, but aren't these things sort of important? Deyric and Emmaline's bond barely happened, they barely had a relationship. They interact a couple of times, banter, then hook up in a supply closet for an entire afternoon and that was it. I wouldn't even call it love, even if it was the best sex of her life.
Overall, it was an entertaining read!
I wouldn't say it was fantastic, especially because, like I said, everything happened SO quickly and we barely had a chance to get to know Deyric and Emmaline together. She spent more time with Caelith than her supposed mate, which I think should've been fixed. I was rooting for Deyric, of course, but there was not much to root for?
I liked to witness Emmaline's change over the story, and how tight her friend group was. We all need friends like Emmaline. I liked how they tried to keep her grounded and tell her she was delusional but also enabled her madness. Good for them.
Like I said, the descriptions were very good, very vivid, and every scene was always very well painted. Especially the ones that were spent in her friends' places. I too would like to have a room that is always a mess of fabrics and skirts and dresses and fancy clothes.
Once again, thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book before it was published!
I was not expecting this to be a spicy dark romance. I'm not even joking, I think I missed that part.
But I enjoyed it nevertheless!
This was a short read, but it was packed with a lot of personality and magic and a very vivid world.
But it was also packed with some second-hand embarrassment, I could choke Emmaline and felt like banging my head against the wall every two seconds.
Alright, so, spoilers ahead. For the entire book.
Emmaline starts out as the worst FMC ever. I swear to god, she's the most obnoxious, self-centered, delusional and crazy bitch. I am so serious, she starts out as someone who truly believes the lord of her kingdom is her fated mate, despite fated mates being more like myths and not having existed for like centuries? She is incredibly delusional - no matter what her friends say or do to prove her wrong (aka point out all his flaws and all the evidence that points to him NOT being her mate), she's stuck in her ways.
This girl is so crazy she thinks she and the prince are meant to be together with literally no evidence whatsoever. It's like that one "source: it came from a dream" meme.
In the beginning, she's incredibly annoying and makes everything about Caelith. Upon killing one of his possible suitors, her first thoughts are not about the woman or the horrendous act she committed, but about how "Mate Laws" would certainly protect her.
Bitch, who EVEN said y'all were mates?
By the way, he doesn't even know her name. He doesn't even know who she is. She is his father's secretary, she has been working for his father for years, and he doesn't know she exists. Girl don't you think if y'all were mates he wouldn't have somehow felt your presence? Or some sort of pull that led him to you? He ignores Emmaline every chance he gets, and only looks at her when his advisor/friend sets his eye on her.
Luckily she had already sort of snapped out of her delusion by then but oh my God what a crazy girl. Although she's very funny, she can be kind of mean to her friends, but that changes over the book thank god. I love character developments. I went from hating her to rooting for her. She learns from her mistakes, has her eyes finally open to the truth of Caelith being a jerk and is more responsible from then on. Somewhat.
The scene where she breaks the bond with Deyric was very impactful, even though I definitely think it was rushed. First she likes Caelith and all of a sudden she is into Derek so much that she bangs him and all?
And then one chapter later, he is her mate? He doesn't sit right with me. I get that this is supposed to be a short book and things might get rushed or brushed off in favor of the vibes, but aren't these things sort of important? Deyric and Emmaline's bond barely happened, they barely had a relationship. They interact a couple of times, banter, then hook up in a supply closet for an entire afternoon and that was it. I wouldn't even call it love, even if it was the best sex of her life.
Overall, it was an entertaining read!
I wouldn't say it was fantastic, especially because, like I said, everything happened SO quickly and we barely had a chance to get to know Deyric and Emmaline together. She spent more time with Caelith than her supposed mate, which I think should've been fixed. I was rooting for Deyric, of course, but there was not much to root for?
I liked to witness Emmaline's change over the story, and how tight her friend group was. We all need friends like Emmaline. I liked how they tried to keep her grounded and tell her she was delusional but also enabled her madness. Good for them.
Like I said, the descriptions were very good, very vivid, and every scene was always very well painted. Especially the ones that were spent in her friends' places. I too would like to have a room that is always a mess of fabrics and skirts and dresses and fancy clothes.
Once again, thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book before it was published!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
✨🖤 Emmaline: A Story of Love in the Vale completely swept me away. Kristen Coar has crafted a beautifully chaotic fantasy romance that is equal parts hilarious, heartbreaking, magical, and deeply emotional. From the very first page, I found myself immersed in a world where friendship is sacred, love is complicated, and disaster seems to follow Emmaline wherever she goes. 😂🔥
Emmaline is far from a perfect heroine—and that's exactly what makes her so captivating. She makes reckless choices, lets her emotions take the wheel more often than she should, and constantly finds herself tangled in situations that spiral far beyond her control. Yet somehow, even when she's making the worst possible decisions, you can't help but cheer her on. Her determination, flaws, and vulnerability make her feel incredibly real. 🖤✨
Of course, Emmaline wouldn't be nearly as entertaining without the incredible women standing beside her. Ursula, Cassidy, and Margo stole my heart just as much as the main romance. Their friendship isn't just a side element of the story—it's the foundation that holds everything together. Fierce loyalty, unwavering support, brutal honesty, and endless chaos define this group. As Lara and Aeren become part of their circle, the sense of sisterhood only grows stronger. These women celebrate each other's victories, survive each other's mistakes, and stand together through every storm. 👑💜⚔️
The romance between Emmaline and Deyric is absolutely unforgettable. Their connection feels destined from the start, but that doesn't make the journey easy. The tension, longing, playful exchanges, emotional conflicts, and undeniable attraction create a relationship that keeps you invested every step of the way. Whether they're making each other laugh, driving each other crazy, or fighting for one another, their chemistry leaps off the page. ❤️🔥
And then there's Caelith. Without giving anything away, his storyline adds another layer of emotional depth and conflict that kept me fully invested. The consequences of choices, betrayals, and old wounds are handled so well, making every confrontation feel meaningful and earned. 😮⚡
What impressed me most was how much this book manages to pack into one story. Fantasy, romance, friendship, vengeance, healing, heartbreak, humor, magic, and personal growth all weave together seamlessly. One moment I was laughing at the characters' outrageous antics, and the next I was completely emotional over the weight of their struggles. 🥹✨
The magical elements add excitement and wonder throughout the story, but it's the characters who truly make this book shine. Every relationship feels important, every victory feels deserved, and every setback carries real emotional impact. The story embraces both the beauty and the chaos of love, friendship, and self-discovery in a way that feels authentic and memorable. 🌙🦋
If you're looking for a straightforward fantasy romance, this may not be the book for you. But if you love layered characters, powerful female friendships, emotional storytelling, magical adventures, intense romance, and a healthy dose of mayhem, Emmaline: A Story of Love in the Vale delivers all of that and more. 📚✨
By the time I reached the final page, I was smiling, emotional, and already wanting to experience the journey all over again. Kristen Coar created a story that lingers long after it's finished, and I can confidently say this is one I'll be revisiting in the future. 💜🌟📖
Emmaline is far from a perfect heroine—and that's exactly what makes her so captivating. She makes reckless choices, lets her emotions take the wheel more often than she should, and constantly finds herself tangled in situations that spiral far beyond her control. Yet somehow, even when she's making the worst possible decisions, you can't help but cheer her on. Her determination, flaws, and vulnerability make her feel incredibly real. 🖤✨
Of course, Emmaline wouldn't be nearly as entertaining without the incredible women standing beside her. Ursula, Cassidy, and Margo stole my heart just as much as the main romance. Their friendship isn't just a side element of the story—it's the foundation that holds everything together. Fierce loyalty, unwavering support, brutal honesty, and endless chaos define this group. As Lara and Aeren become part of their circle, the sense of sisterhood only grows stronger. These women celebrate each other's victories, survive each other's mistakes, and stand together through every storm. 👑💜⚔️
The romance between Emmaline and Deyric is absolutely unforgettable. Their connection feels destined from the start, but that doesn't make the journey easy. The tension, longing, playful exchanges, emotional conflicts, and undeniable attraction create a relationship that keeps you invested every step of the way. Whether they're making each other laugh, driving each other crazy, or fighting for one another, their chemistry leaps off the page. ❤️🔥
And then there's Caelith. Without giving anything away, his storyline adds another layer of emotional depth and conflict that kept me fully invested. The consequences of choices, betrayals, and old wounds are handled so well, making every confrontation feel meaningful and earned. 😮⚡
What impressed me most was how much this book manages to pack into one story. Fantasy, romance, friendship, vengeance, healing, heartbreak, humor, magic, and personal growth all weave together seamlessly. One moment I was laughing at the characters' outrageous antics, and the next I was completely emotional over the weight of their struggles. 🥹✨
The magical elements add excitement and wonder throughout the story, but it's the characters who truly make this book shine. Every relationship feels important, every victory feels deserved, and every setback carries real emotional impact. The story embraces both the beauty and the chaos of love, friendship, and self-discovery in a way that feels authentic and memorable. 🌙🦋
If you're looking for a straightforward fantasy romance, this may not be the book for you. But if you love layered characters, powerful female friendships, emotional storytelling, magical adventures, intense romance, and a healthy dose of mayhem, Emmaline: A Story of Love in the Vale delivers all of that and more. 📚✨
By the time I reached the final page, I was smiling, emotional, and already wanting to experience the journey all over again. Kristen Coar created a story that lingers long after it's finished, and I can confidently say this is one I'll be revisiting in the future. 💜🌟📖
Review of advance copy received from Author
Emmaline was a deeply entertaining ride, but the true heart of this story was its friend group, because I love a girl's girl!
Each woman brought something distinct to the page, with her own personality, energy, and particular brand of unhinged loyalty. Together, they created the kind of bond that makes a story feel fuller, sharper, and more alive. Even when Emmaline was making choices that had me side-eyeing her hard, her friends remained firmly ride or die. They loved her enough to stand beside her, challenge her, and still show up when it mattered most.
What surprised me most was how much I loved the way romance shared space with rage, grief, and revenge. As much as I enjoy a dark romance, this story didn’t rely on romance alone to carry the weight. The love story was there, and I absolutely enjoyed the fated mate dynamic, but the larger emotional current belonged to women who had been pushed too far and decided the consequences could catch up later. Or, never. And when these women plan? It does not just stay in the group chat.
The pacing was one of the strongest parts for me. Familiar fantasy romance beats appeared, but the author didn’t linger on them until they lost impact. Conflict had room to breathe without dragging, the dialogue felt engaging and natural without tipping into cringe, and the magical elements were woven in with ease. The result was a story that moved beautifully while still giving the characters and world enough texture to matter.
I also loved the balance of chaos and devotion. Everyone is a little bit crazy, but in a way that makes their bond more believable. The giant corgis were an absolute bonus, and Emmaline’s custom design for the final revenge? Chef’s kiss.
The romance itself was still delivered. The true mate was solid and a perfect match for Emmaline, even when he was being an occasional idiot. His sister's words, not mine. Their connection worked because their particular brands of intensity fit together so well.
My only real issue was with some of Emmaline’s early choices, especially the way she lashed out at the people who could clearly see what she could not. That said, I appreciated that this tension wasn’t beaten to death. It served its purpose, then the story moved forward.
Emmaline gave me friendship, magic, vengeance, fated mates, feminine rage, and a decent amount of chaos. It was fun, sharp, emotional, and wildly entertaining in the best way.
Each woman brought something distinct to the page, with her own personality, energy, and particular brand of unhinged loyalty. Together, they created the kind of bond that makes a story feel fuller, sharper, and more alive. Even when Emmaline was making choices that had me side-eyeing her hard, her friends remained firmly ride or die. They loved her enough to stand beside her, challenge her, and still show up when it mattered most.
What surprised me most was how much I loved the way romance shared space with rage, grief, and revenge. As much as I enjoy a dark romance, this story didn’t rely on romance alone to carry the weight. The love story was there, and I absolutely enjoyed the fated mate dynamic, but the larger emotional current belonged to women who had been pushed too far and decided the consequences could catch up later. Or, never. And when these women plan? It does not just stay in the group chat.
The pacing was one of the strongest parts for me. Familiar fantasy romance beats appeared, but the author didn’t linger on them until they lost impact. Conflict had room to breathe without dragging, the dialogue felt engaging and natural without tipping into cringe, and the magical elements were woven in with ease. The result was a story that moved beautifully while still giving the characters and world enough texture to matter.
I also loved the balance of chaos and devotion. Everyone is a little bit crazy, but in a way that makes their bond more believable. The giant corgis were an absolute bonus, and Emmaline’s custom design for the final revenge? Chef’s kiss.
The romance itself was still delivered. The true mate was solid and a perfect match for Emmaline, even when he was being an occasional idiot. His sister's words, not mine. Their connection worked because their particular brands of intensity fit together so well.
My only real issue was with some of Emmaline’s early choices, especially the way she lashed out at the people who could clearly see what she could not. That said, I appreciated that this tension wasn’t beaten to death. It served its purpose, then the story moved forward.
Emmaline gave me friendship, magic, vengeance, fated mates, feminine rage, and a decent amount of chaos. It was fun, sharp, emotional, and wildly entertaining in the best way.
May 13, 2026
Emmaline: A Story of Love in the Vale had a premise that immediately caught my attention. A chaotic heroine convinced she’d found her fated mate, loyal friends ready to help her destroy anyone who hurt her, cursed fate bonds, dark humor, and smexy elves? Honestly, it sounded like the kind of fantasy romcom chaos I’d normally eat up. 😂🖤
The world itself was probably my favorite part. The Vale felt rich with magical politics, enchanted castles, noble bloodlines, and dangerous social hierarchies. ✨🏰 I loved the darker whimsical atmosphere and could absolutely see the potential in the setting.
But unfortunately, this one just didn’t work for me emotionally. 💔
Emmaline was the kind of FMC I personally struggled to connect with. She was completely convinced Caelith was the one for her, despite the fact that he barely knew she existed. Even when people around her pointed out his flaws or warned her he wasn’t a good person, she kept brushing everything aside with a “you just don’t understand him” attitude. 😭
And I think that was where the story lost me.
It felt less like genuine longing and more like she had created an idealized version of him in her head. The way she constantly defended him — even before truly knowing him — gave me a lot of secondhand frustration. Especially because the second reality started cracking that fantasy, she immediately tried to explain it away instead of facing it. 🫠
I think the short length also made this harder for me because there wasn’t enough time for me to really understand the emotional connection she felt toward him. I needed more buildup, more chemistry, and more moments that made me believe in her feelings. The MMC honestly seemed like he could have been interesting, but I never got enough time with him to become attached. 🖤
That being said, I can still see other readers enjoying this more than I did — especially if you like messy chaotic heroines, dramatic fate-bond twists, and fast-paced fantasy romance with dark comedic energy. The concept itself was definitely unique and memorable.
✨ Perfect for readers who enjoy:
🖤 Chaotic FMC energy
🧝 Smexy elves & fae politics
💘 Fated mate drama
😂 Dark fantasy romcom vibes
🩸 Curses & magical chaos
👯 Loyal friendship groups
🏰 Enchanted kingdoms
⚡ Very fast-paced storytelling
Thank you so much to Kristen Coar for the ARC opportunity!
The world itself was probably my favorite part. The Vale felt rich with magical politics, enchanted castles, noble bloodlines, and dangerous social hierarchies. ✨🏰 I loved the darker whimsical atmosphere and could absolutely see the potential in the setting.
But unfortunately, this one just didn’t work for me emotionally. 💔
Emmaline was the kind of FMC I personally struggled to connect with. She was completely convinced Caelith was the one for her, despite the fact that he barely knew she existed. Even when people around her pointed out his flaws or warned her he wasn’t a good person, she kept brushing everything aside with a “you just don’t understand him” attitude. 😭
And I think that was where the story lost me.
It felt less like genuine longing and more like she had created an idealized version of him in her head. The way she constantly defended him — even before truly knowing him — gave me a lot of secondhand frustration. Especially because the second reality started cracking that fantasy, she immediately tried to explain it away instead of facing it. 🫠
I think the short length also made this harder for me because there wasn’t enough time for me to really understand the emotional connection she felt toward him. I needed more buildup, more chemistry, and more moments that made me believe in her feelings. The MMC honestly seemed like he could have been interesting, but I never got enough time with him to become attached. 🖤
That being said, I can still see other readers enjoying this more than I did — especially if you like messy chaotic heroines, dramatic fate-bond twists, and fast-paced fantasy romance with dark comedic energy. The concept itself was definitely unique and memorable.
✨ Perfect for readers who enjoy:
🖤 Chaotic FMC energy
🧝 Smexy elves & fae politics
💘 Fated mate drama
😂 Dark fantasy romcom vibes
🩸 Curses & magical chaos
👯 Loyal friendship groups
🏰 Enchanted kingdoms
⚡ Very fast-paced storytelling
Thank you so much to Kristen Coar for the ARC opportunity!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
💫OMG Kristen this book has made me laugh and cry - sometimes at the same time!! Thank you so much for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of Emmaline, and the following review represents my feelings about the book 📖
I like to highlight passages from books that stir emotions - however that rarely begins with the Dedication!! But this one "For the women who choose each other - no matter how bad the decision, or how high the cost" - is an approach that many could adopt in the modern era of social media, where the prevalence seems to be to tear each other down.
Emmaline is the FMC, messy, chaotic and, quite frankly, unhinged (in a stalker, murderous kind of way) and yet, I absolutely fell in love with her and her female rage💖 There's a girl squad to die for, who have been given some of the funniest one liners I've read in quite some time (Ursula - "Violent Menace, Ursuala huffed a laugh, shaking her head the moment the door swung shut. Sounds like a burlesque act I'd actually pay to see") 👯♀️
There are some genuinely touching passages - for instance, Emmaline talking about her parents mated relationship brought a lump to my throat 🥹, and when she tells her mate that she wants him, it's both touching and funny at the same time.
There's whimsey in the form of horse sized talking corgis (yes really) and some seriously spicy bits🔥 ("....ruining her completely - her last coherent thought was that she had never felt so deliciously wrecked in her life. And that, yes, she did, in fact, like being spanked").
There is a reasonable amount of world building, which is necessary, as are the references to times before. The magic is grey and forbidden, yet deliciously amusing. The spicy scenes are pretty detailed 🥵, and there are some aspects that could make some readers uncomfortable if the trigger warnings aren't heeded.
The 2 main male characters - Lord Caelith and Deyric - are polar opposites, Caelith is rotten through and through, whereas Deyric is a bit of a labrador, but isn't afraid to tame the brat with a good spanking or two😏and I was hoping from very early on that Emmaline chooses him as her mate (no spoilers).
If you like your books to make you laugh, cry, want to punch things, form a girl squad and generally be a delulu idiot, put Emmaline on your TBR shelf right now 📖
I like to highlight passages from books that stir emotions - however that rarely begins with the Dedication!! But this one "For the women who choose each other - no matter how bad the decision, or how high the cost" - is an approach that many could adopt in the modern era of social media, where the prevalence seems to be to tear each other down.
Emmaline is the FMC, messy, chaotic and, quite frankly, unhinged (in a stalker, murderous kind of way) and yet, I absolutely fell in love with her and her female rage💖 There's a girl squad to die for, who have been given some of the funniest one liners I've read in quite some time (Ursula - "Violent Menace, Ursuala huffed a laugh, shaking her head the moment the door swung shut. Sounds like a burlesque act I'd actually pay to see") 👯♀️
There are some genuinely touching passages - for instance, Emmaline talking about her parents mated relationship brought a lump to my throat 🥹, and when she tells her mate that she wants him, it's both touching and funny at the same time.
There's whimsey in the form of horse sized talking corgis (yes really) and some seriously spicy bits🔥 ("....ruining her completely - her last coherent thought was that she had never felt so deliciously wrecked in her life. And that, yes, she did, in fact, like being spanked").
There is a reasonable amount of world building, which is necessary, as are the references to times before. The magic is grey and forbidden, yet deliciously amusing. The spicy scenes are pretty detailed 🥵, and there are some aspects that could make some readers uncomfortable if the trigger warnings aren't heeded.
The 2 main male characters - Lord Caelith and Deyric - are polar opposites, Caelith is rotten through and through, whereas Deyric is a bit of a labrador, but isn't afraid to tame the brat with a good spanking or two😏and I was hoping from very early on that Emmaline chooses him as her mate (no spoilers).
If you like your books to make you laugh, cry, want to punch things, form a girl squad and generally be a delulu idiot, put Emmaline on your TBR shelf right now 📖
Review of advance copy received from Author
Special thanks to the author for providing me this arc!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: .5🌶️
I was happy with the character development we got to see in Emmaline, from a somewhat cringey obsessive fangirl type to someone who knows her worth and is a strong badass of a woman. I really loved the glimpses we got into the group of strong independent women that is made of of Emmaline and her three friends, always great to see something like that represented. These glimpses left me wanting to learn more about them and hoping the story will continue.
I was impressed by how much I was able to dislike Caelith and Lady Isolde in such a short amount of time. The author developed their slimy unlikable characters quite well.
I will say I wish the book had been longer or that everything wouldn’t have been resolved in this book to allow for more plot and character development/progression. If it is meant to be a standalone of Emmaline’s story it could have been twice the length to really flesh out the plot in its entirety. Everything felt somewhat quick in the second half of the book but most especially whole mate plot. We know basically nothing about Emmaline’s mate and their relationship has little to no foundation outside of them being fated mates. While I do enjoy fated mates I want the attraction and affection to grow naturally for the mates rather than it being an instantaneous love because they’re fated. I want to feel that yearning love and see it grow and I just don’t get that from these two because there’s very little to show why they’d like each other outside of the fact that they have to because they’re mates fated by the Goddess. Id say the book is more so “revenge/justice in the vale” over “love in the vale”.
There were some dark themes and moments in this book and readers should definitely check the triggers if they are sensitive to some themes but as a dark romance reader I wouldn’t say this is nearly close to pitch black.
I overall enjoyed this storyline and am hoping there will be more to the series. I’d love to read about Emmaline some more and also the rest of the “coven”.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: .5🌶️
I was happy with the character development we got to see in Emmaline, from a somewhat cringey obsessive fangirl type to someone who knows her worth and is a strong badass of a woman. I really loved the glimpses we got into the group of strong independent women that is made of of Emmaline and her three friends, always great to see something like that represented. These glimpses left me wanting to learn more about them and hoping the story will continue.
I was impressed by how much I was able to dislike Caelith and Lady Isolde in such a short amount of time. The author developed their slimy unlikable characters quite well.
I will say I wish the book had been longer or that everything wouldn’t have been resolved in this book to allow for more plot and character development/progression. If it is meant to be a standalone of Emmaline’s story it could have been twice the length to really flesh out the plot in its entirety. Everything felt somewhat quick in the second half of the book but most especially whole mate plot. We know basically nothing about Emmaline’s mate and their relationship has little to no foundation outside of them being fated mates. While I do enjoy fated mates I want the attraction and affection to grow naturally for the mates rather than it being an instantaneous love because they’re fated. I want to feel that yearning love and see it grow and I just don’t get that from these two because there’s very little to show why they’d like each other outside of the fact that they have to because they’re mates fated by the Goddess. Id say the book is more so “revenge/justice in the vale” over “love in the vale”.
There were some dark themes and moments in this book and readers should definitely check the triggers if they are sensitive to some themes but as a dark romance reader I wouldn’t say this is nearly close to pitch black.
I overall enjoyed this storyline and am hoping there will be more to the series. I’d love to read about Emmaline some more and also the rest of the “coven”.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Review for advance reader copy from author.
Emmaline is a dark fantasy romance filled with political intrigue, dangerous magic, mate bonds, betrayal, and a surprisingly strong sense of female friendship woven throughout the chaos. Set within a magical Vale, the story follows Emmaline, a humble clerk with no title, no wealth, and no political standing—just determination and hope that destiny might finally choose her.
Emmaline works as a secretary handling finances for Lord Caelith’s family, and when she discovers that Caelith may be her fated mate, she becomes consumed with trying to make him recognize the bond as well. Caelith is charming, wealthy, and powerful, running an infamous entertainment house while his mother, Lady Isolde, obsessively searches for a more “worthy” bride for him.
I absolutely loved the supporting cast—Ursula, Cassidy, Margot, and Aeren all added so much personality, humor, and heart to the book. The female camaraderie was honestly one of my favorite parts. These women fully had each other’s backs, and their banter and loyalty made the story even more entertaining.
The world itself was very interesting, especially the magical Vale, the gliders powered through the city’s hub, and the dangerous reputation surrounding blood magic. There were several darker twists throughout the story that kept me invested, and the stakes escalated quickly once secrets, manipulation, and revenge came into play.
While I genuinely enjoyed the story overall, I did find myself confused at times about which characters were being discussed, and I had to reread several sections to fully understand what was happening. Some scenes felt a little difficult to follow because of the number of characters and shifting dynamics. Even so, the story remained captivating and fun to read.
Overall, Emmaline is an entertaining dark fantasy romance with emotional twists, morally gray characters, dangerous magic, and strong female friendships. If you enjoy stories with mate bonds, court politics, forbidden magic, and messy emotional journeys, this one is definitely worth checking out.
Emmaline is a dark fantasy romance filled with political intrigue, dangerous magic, mate bonds, betrayal, and a surprisingly strong sense of female friendship woven throughout the chaos. Set within a magical Vale, the story follows Emmaline, a humble clerk with no title, no wealth, and no political standing—just determination and hope that destiny might finally choose her.
Emmaline works as a secretary handling finances for Lord Caelith’s family, and when she discovers that Caelith may be her fated mate, she becomes consumed with trying to make him recognize the bond as well. Caelith is charming, wealthy, and powerful, running an infamous entertainment house while his mother, Lady Isolde, obsessively searches for a more “worthy” bride for him.
I absolutely loved the supporting cast—Ursula, Cassidy, Margot, and Aeren all added so much personality, humor, and heart to the book. The female camaraderie was honestly one of my favorite parts. These women fully had each other’s backs, and their banter and loyalty made the story even more entertaining.
The world itself was very interesting, especially the magical Vale, the gliders powered through the city’s hub, and the dangerous reputation surrounding blood magic. There were several darker twists throughout the story that kept me invested, and the stakes escalated quickly once secrets, manipulation, and revenge came into play.
While I genuinely enjoyed the story overall, I did find myself confused at times about which characters were being discussed, and I had to reread several sections to fully understand what was happening. Some scenes felt a little difficult to follow because of the number of characters and shifting dynamics. Even so, the story remained captivating and fun to read.
Overall, Emmaline is an entertaining dark fantasy romance with emotional twists, morally gray characters, dangerous magic, and strong female friendships. If you enjoy stories with mate bonds, court politics, forbidden magic, and messy emotional journeys, this one is definitely worth checking out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow okay so what a ride. I genuinely enjoyed the story about a fae who is delulu about being the fated mate of a high lord. It was unique, fun, kinda unserious but also very serious at times and overall low stakes. Some aspects (crushing from a distance, lol) were very relatable. I loved the focus on female friendships, getting revenge on shitty people and the twist on mate bonds - definitely a fantasy romcom! I don't really know if I would consider this to be pitch black fantasy though even with all the dark themes.
However, there are a couple of things that stop me from giving it the full five stars:
There was one scene that almost made me DNF the book and it relates to one aspect that didn't quite work for me: the romance development. The pacing was kind of all over the place and our FMC kept doing these 180s and apparently knows in and out after one week (?!). Overall, it just needed more development to be believeable, especially because it does feel like we get more pages dedictaed to Emmaline and . The aforementioned scene didn't really make sense; it came out of nowhere, didn't really add any depth to the relationship and actually made me feel uncomfortable (it was trying to be hot and sexy but it just felt off to me).
The other aspect is worldbuilding. There is some really interesting worldbuilding in this world but at times I felt like I was lacking information about said world in order to appreciate what was going on. A lot of the worldbuilding is implied and I wish that some of the worldbuilding would have been more incorporated into the story. I did feel like a lot of questions I had in the beginning were never really answered (
Etc).
Thank you to the author for the ARC! I am definitely excited to read more about the Vale
However, there are a couple of things that stop me from giving it the full five stars:
There was one scene that almost made me DNF the book and it relates to one aspect that didn't quite work for me: the romance development. The pacing was kind of all over the place and our FMC kept doing these 180s and apparently knows in and out after one week (?!). Overall, it just needed more development to be believeable, especially because it does feel like we get more pages dedictaed to Emmaline and . The aforementioned scene didn't really make sense; it came out of nowhere, didn't really add any depth to the relationship and actually made me feel uncomfortable (it was trying to be hot and sexy but it just felt off to me).
The other aspect is worldbuilding. There is some really interesting worldbuilding in this world but at times I felt like I was lacking information about said world in order to appreciate what was going on. A lot of the worldbuilding is implied and I wish that some of the worldbuilding would have been more incorporated into the story. I did feel like a lot of questions I had in the beginning were never really answered (
Etc).
Thank you to the author for the ARC! I am definitely excited to read more about the Vale
Review of advance copy received from Author
When I tell you I was practically vibrating with excitement to get my grubby little raccoon hands on this ARC, I am saying it proudly with my whole chest. I mean, when you take the QUEEN of Deluluville, give her THEE BEST girl squad in all the realms (haughty giant corgi included), an unhinged plan to get the prince to notice her as his fated mate and then throw her TRUE fated mate into the mix to complicate things you have a recipe for an insanely good time and let me state for the record: We eat -very- well.
Emmaline is delightfully delusional and dangerously determined. She’s resourceful and detail oriented which are good qualities to have when you’re just a girl who engages in some light stalking in the name of true love. While completely mad, I found her to be incredibly relatable (I don’t even want to know what that says about me). Deyrick is the tall, dark, and handsome king of sarcasm and spankings.
I love him, your honour.
While this is a tale of sexy elves and fated mates, the true love story here is between Emmaline and her squad. Each of her friends is deep and complex and while her fated mate’s identity may be up for debate, it’s made very clear that these three women are not only her found family… they’re soulmates. They’ve been through hell and back together, and no matter the situation, no matter how right or wrong Emmaline is, these ladies understand the assignment.
I cannot even begin to properly express how much fun I had reading this book, but let me list some of the things that happened during the experience:
•I laughed out loud several times.
•I giggled and kicked my feet like a teenager.
•I yelled at my kindle like Emmaline could hear me through the pages.
•I nearly threw said kindle across the room.
•I might have shed a tear or two for multiple reasons
•I punched the air in triumph alone in my house like an idiot
So it’s safe to say I enjoyed myself.
5/5 stars. ✨
Emmaline is delightfully delusional and dangerously determined. She’s resourceful and detail oriented which are good qualities to have when you’re just a girl who engages in some light stalking in the name of true love. While completely mad, I found her to be incredibly relatable (I don’t even want to know what that says about me). Deyrick is the tall, dark, and handsome king of sarcasm and spankings.
I love him, your honour.
While this is a tale of sexy elves and fated mates, the true love story here is between Emmaline and her squad. Each of her friends is deep and complex and while her fated mate’s identity may be up for debate, it’s made very clear that these three women are not only her found family… they’re soulmates. They’ve been through hell and back together, and no matter the situation, no matter how right or wrong Emmaline is, these ladies understand the assignment.
I cannot even begin to properly express how much fun I had reading this book, but let me list some of the things that happened during the experience:
•I laughed out loud several times.
•I giggled and kicked my feet like a teenager.
•I yelled at my kindle like Emmaline could hear me through the pages.
•I nearly threw said kindle across the room.
•I might have shed a tear or two for multiple reasons
•I punched the air in triumph alone in my house like an idiot
So it’s safe to say I enjoyed myself.
5/5 stars. ✨
Review of advance copy received from Author
I just finished this ARC read! 4.5 stars!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Blurb: "ACOTAR meets Sex in the City, but make it pitch black with smexy, mildly homicidal elves in this Dark Fantasy RomCom"
🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤
I can picture Ursula as the 'Samantha' of the group, Cassidy as 'Charlotte', and Margo as 'Miranda'. I assume that Emmaline is the 'Carrie' since she is the FMC. I love that these 4 women literally went through a war together and came out the other side. They have a truly strong bond of friendship - a sisterhood.
My favourite quote is " 'You already have that kind of love. You've had it for a long time. From three equally insane Ellyllon women and a giant Corgi' ". 🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷
Oversized Corgies? Yes! I loved that there were giant, adorable Corgis as part of a law enforcement force in this story. Animal companions are always a favourite! 💚
The author writes stories above love that are 'messy' and supposedly will make you want to scream into a pillow, cry, and are emotionally damaging. This book was all of that! I felt a whole range of emotions - it was a rollercoaster! At first I was so frustrated with Emmaline and Deyric. Emmaline downright infurtiated me at times and I was ready to scream at her through the pages, lol. Eventually though, things changed and I came to see humility and growth in the characters - especially Emmaline. Emmaline and Deyric are absolutely unhinged! The banter between them is good too. I felt quite relieved, elated and content by the end of the book 😉💜💜.
Also, Lord Caelith's character is a piece of human garbage and he makes me sick! 🤢 I literally felt nauseated by some of his actions in the book (check the trigger warnings). This was written so well that I felt a strong connection with most of the characters in the story (protagonists).
If you love dark romance, fantasy and enjoyed both ACOTAR and Sex in the City, I highly recommend giving this a read! It releases in July but ARC applications are still open to read now!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Blurb: "ACOTAR meets Sex in the City, but make it pitch black with smexy, mildly homicidal elves in this Dark Fantasy RomCom"
🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤
I can picture Ursula as the 'Samantha' of the group, Cassidy as 'Charlotte', and Margo as 'Miranda'. I assume that Emmaline is the 'Carrie' since she is the FMC. I love that these 4 women literally went through a war together and came out the other side. They have a truly strong bond of friendship - a sisterhood.
My favourite quote is " 'You already have that kind of love. You've had it for a long time. From three equally insane Ellyllon women and a giant Corgi' ". 🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷
Oversized Corgies? Yes! I loved that there were giant, adorable Corgis as part of a law enforcement force in this story. Animal companions are always a favourite! 💚
The author writes stories above love that are 'messy' and supposedly will make you want to scream into a pillow, cry, and are emotionally damaging. This book was all of that! I felt a whole range of emotions - it was a rollercoaster! At first I was so frustrated with Emmaline and Deyric. Emmaline downright infurtiated me at times and I was ready to scream at her through the pages, lol. Eventually though, things changed and I came to see humility and growth in the characters - especially Emmaline. Emmaline and Deyric are absolutely unhinged! The banter between them is good too. I felt quite relieved, elated and content by the end of the book 😉💜💜.
Also, Lord Caelith's character is a piece of human garbage and he makes me sick! 🤢 I literally felt nauseated by some of his actions in the book (check the trigger warnings). This was written so well that I felt a strong connection with most of the characters in the story (protagonists).
If you love dark romance, fantasy and enjoyed both ACOTAR and Sex in the City, I highly recommend giving this a read! It releases in July but ARC applications are still open to read now!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was CHAOTIC in the best possible way. Obsession, manipulation, revenge, magic, morally gray decisions, spicy tension, female friendship, and one of the most refreshing romantasy setups I’ve read in a while.
Because Emmaline is not your typical FMC.
She begins this story deeply convinced that Caelith is her fated mate, and watching her spiral into increasingly questionable decisions because of that belief was honestly fascinating. The obsession angle felt messy, uncomfortable, emotional, and incredibly human. I loved that this story was willing to explore what happens when someone confuses destiny with possession.
And then the book slowly peels back layer after layer until you realize things are MUCH darker than they first appeared.
The manipulation.
The coercion.
The corruption hiding beneath the polished noble society.
The way Emmaline slowly begins reclaiming herself instead of chasing a fantasy.
SO good.
But what really made this work for me was the balance. Because despite the darker themes, the book still has humor, banter, friendship, ridiculous moments, and genuinely spicy chemistry.
Deyric absolutely stole scenes for me. Their relationship felt raw, protective, messy, sarcastic, and real in a way the “perfect” fantasy bond never did. The emotional shift between obsession and genuine connection was one of the strongest parts of the book.
I also loved the female friendships in this. The girls felt like actual friends instead of decorative side characters. They were funny, loyal, chaotic, supportive, and willing to help bury a body emotionally AND possibly literally !
And that ENDING?!
The final lines genuinely made me laugh because now I desperately need books for the other characters.
If the author writes more stories in this world, especially for the side characters, I will absolutely be reading them.
Spicy.
Darkly funny.
Fantastical.
Morally messy.
Emotional.
And surprisingly empowering underneath all the chaos
Because Emmaline is not your typical FMC.
She begins this story deeply convinced that Caelith is her fated mate, and watching her spiral into increasingly questionable decisions because of that belief was honestly fascinating. The obsession angle felt messy, uncomfortable, emotional, and incredibly human. I loved that this story was willing to explore what happens when someone confuses destiny with possession.
And then the book slowly peels back layer after layer until you realize things are MUCH darker than they first appeared.
The manipulation.
The coercion.
The corruption hiding beneath the polished noble society.
The way Emmaline slowly begins reclaiming herself instead of chasing a fantasy.
SO good.
But what really made this work for me was the balance. Because despite the darker themes, the book still has humor, banter, friendship, ridiculous moments, and genuinely spicy chemistry.
Deyric absolutely stole scenes for me. Their relationship felt raw, protective, messy, sarcastic, and real in a way the “perfect” fantasy bond never did. The emotional shift between obsession and genuine connection was one of the strongest parts of the book.
I also loved the female friendships in this. The girls felt like actual friends instead of decorative side characters. They were funny, loyal, chaotic, supportive, and willing to help bury a body emotionally AND possibly literally !
And that ENDING?!
The final lines genuinely made me laugh because now I desperately need books for the other characters.
If the author writes more stories in this world, especially for the side characters, I will absolutely be reading them.
Spicy.
Darkly funny.
Fantastical.
Morally messy.
Emotional.
And surprisingly empowering underneath all the chaos
Displaying 1 - 30 of 231 reviews