Lover of all things romantasy, USAT bestselling author Samantha Britt enjoys binge reading and writing new adult fantasy and paranormal romances. Her favorite protagonists are women in the middle of discovering just what they have to offer the world, often drawn to complicated, dreamy guys in the process.
When not swooning over devastatingly handsome Fae, Samantha spends her days raising two rambunctious toddlers, snuggling her fur babies, and enjoying a date night every Friday with the man who gave her the happily ever after she always dreamed of.
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ARV review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5 stars — and honestly, if I could give it more, I would.)
I am genuinely lost for words after finishing Captive of Secrets and Storms. This book completely consumed me from beginning to end, and I already know I’ll be thinking about it for a long time.
The push and pull between Rian and Elara is absolutely everything. Their chemistry is electric, and the tension between them had me hanging on every interaction. They both yearn for each other so deeply, yet they’re equally as stubborn, which makes every moment between them even more addictive. Watching them slowly navigate their feelings while battling their own fears and responsibilities was both frustrating and incredibly rewarding.
Following their journey from where it all began in the Forbidden Forest to that jaw-dropping cliffhanger was an emotional rollercoaster. Every chapter pulled me in deeper, and I never wanted it to end.
I thought Rian was the ultimate shadow daddy in the first book, but wow… this book took him to a whole new level. His power, his unwavering loyalty, and the way his desire—no, his need—to protect Elara shines through every page had me squealing like a kid in a lolly shop. He has officially cemented himself as one of my all-time favourite book boyfriends.
The world-building continues to expand beautifully, the stakes are higher than ever, and the emotional moments hit just as hard as the action. The ending absolutely wrecked me, and now I’m desperate to know what happens next.
Bring on book three… and please don’t make us wait too long!
I was so excited to start this book and I was not disappointed! I enjoyed this book just as much as the first one. Once I started reading it, I could not put it down!! I finished it in a matter of days. Samantha Britt’s writing draws me in and keeps me interested through to the end! Her writing flows so smoothly and the imagery is so full of beautiful, vivid details. I felt like I was seeing all the details as described through Elara’s eyes.
The Shadowbound Fae series continues to be the definition of slow burn. The beginning of the 2nd book of the series finds us with Elara feeling betrayed and angry towards Rian. Despite these feelings, she still experiences an inexplicable pull towards him. In the first book we found that Rian is unable to pursue Elara for an unknown reason, despite him seeming just as drawn to her. This unknown reason continues in this book, as does the “touch her and die” aspect that began at the end of first book as well. The slow burn and yearning both characters experience while also dealing with the internal struggle of keeping their distance from each other is well done.
Elara, the FMC, continues to be bound to a deal she made with Rian (the MMC) and travels with him and his friends without being told any details of where and why. An unexpected incident leads them to take an unplanned stop to an island called Virendrell, where the majority of the book takes place. At first, Virendrell appears perfect! But looks are not what they seem. Elara finds there are many secrets below the surface of every one she comes in contact with. While Court of Storms and Secrets reveals some of these secrets, we are left with so many more. The book also ends in quite the unexpected cliffhanger. I can’t wait for the next book!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I was so looking forward to diving into the second book in this series, and it absolutely did not disappoint.
We pick up right where book one left off — deep in the forest, with Elara stunned by what just happened and furious over Rian’s betrayal. And if you’re craving a slow burn… this is the definition of slow burn. Slow, delicious, torturous. I went from “oh my god, it’s finally happening” to “nope, absolutely not, this is never going to happen” to “okay… maybe… please let it happen.”
If you’re after spice, you won’t get much in this instalment. This book leans heavily into story, secrets, and the avalanche of revelations waiting to hit us. And trust me — there are some fantastic twists and turns ahead.
Rian is definitely dark and broody, and more than once I wanted to shake Elara and tell her to just make the first move already.
Most of the story takes place in Virendrell, reached by sea, and the setting is wildly different from anything Elara has ever known. It’s here that everything she once believed starts to unravel, leaving her questioning everything she thought was true.
I loved the pull between Rian and Elara, and I’m desperately hoping book three finally gives me what I want — some tantalising spice and a deeper connection between them.
Overall, this was a 4.5‑star read for me (but since I can’t show half stars, I’ve marked it as a 5). I’m genuinely excited to see where book three takes this story. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Slow burn - love and hate, but also do I hate you for revealing the lies of the life I've had?
We pick up right where we left off, which I love as I don’t feel like “what did I miss”. Elara’s internal tension and roller coaster ride with frustration, hurt, anger, empathy, and longing for a life she pretends was her reality but it really wasn’t. There is a hate for the situation she is in, beholden to those she doesn’t trust. Yet also a misplaced romanticism for a life she pretends was better than it was and that she’s being ripped away from it.
Our world expands too! New cities and continents, which bring new people and cultures. New secrets about others and perhaps about ourself, I felt like I was on a journey of discovery of all that life could be in these new lands. Exploring how hope and hate can be found around corners anywhere, whether it’s hidden or overlooked.
Fans of strong female led stories who learn to see more than what is in front of them, and who learn to fight for truth for everyone and not just their own wants… you will love this book. (and series). The story does tie up cleaning the themes and adventures of book two, while setting up so much possibility – good and devastatingly bad – for book three!
This was another could-not-put-this-down-book by Samantha! Five out of five stars, must read, and will be telling my book best friends they must read this story. I absolutely can’t wait to see where Samatha Britt takes us next!
I received a free copy, ARC, of this book in exchange for a voluntary and honest review.
Thank you so much to Samantha Britt for providing me with an ARC copy in exchange for my honest review. 💙
🌩️ When secrets run deeper than the ocean and storms hide more than destruction… trust becomes the most dangerous thing to give. 🌊
Captive of Secrets and Storms swept me into a world filled with mystery, danger, and a captivating blend of magic and emotion. From the very beginning, this story had me hooked with its atmospheric setting and the feeling that there was always another secret waiting to be uncovered.
Samantha Britt creates a world full of tension, hidden truths, and characters who are forced to navigate impossible choices. I loved the way the story balanced the darker elements of fantasy with the emotional journey of the characters, creating a read that felt both thrilling and deeply personal.
The characters brought so much intrigue to the story, especially as they faced challenges that tested their strength, loyalty, and trust. The push and pull between vulnerability and power made their journey one I wanted to keep following.
With storms, secrets, and a world full of uncertainty, this was an immersive fantasy escape that kept me turning the pages. If you love stories filled with magic, emotional stakes, complicated characters, and a touch of danger, this is one to add to your TBR. ✨
✨ Perfect for readers who love: 🌊 Elemental magic ⚡ Secrets and mysteries 🖤 Fantasy adventures 🔥 Tension-filled relationships 👑 Powerful worlds and hidden truths
🧭 Captive of Secrets and Storms 🧭 By Samantha Britt
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5 🌶
*ARC review*
Book two in Shadowbound Fae series absolutely did not disappoint!! I loved the first book, "Prince of Darkness and Deceit", and in "Captive of Secrets and Storms", Elara and Rian's story continues!!
Elara has found out Rian's real identity and is struggling to accept the fact that the attraction still exists. The pull between them has definitely given hints of fated mates!! And that connection was so beautifully delivered on pages!!
As they set out on their journey, they stop at a famed land where Fae and humans live together and in peace, but an ominous feeling leads Elara to think that it's not as perfect as it seems! There she will discover not only the knowledge of the Fae, which has always been forbidden and inaccessible to her, but also the knowledge of herself, all along discovering that she also may not be able to fight her feelings for Rian!!
I enjoyed this story, the first half of the book was a bit slower paced, but it was a great prelude to the second half. The romance was a perfect slow burn with tension build up that promises even more of angst and banter in the third book. At times, it was infuriating, but definitely worth it! Very much aligned with personalities of our main characters. The ending left me mad, so I definitely need book 3 sooner rather than later!!
I am very grateful to the author, Samantha Britt and Booksprout, for providing me with the eARC for an honest review. I was excited for this as I enjoyed the first book, and I am happy I loved book two as well!
Enemies to lovers and slow burn at their finest! Samantha Britt did not disappoint with book 2 in The Shadowbound Fae. Captive of Secrets and Storms picks up where book 1 left off. With Elara trapped in another deal with Rian, she vows to keep her emotions on lockdown and ignore the pull and undeniable attraction she has for Rian. She is determined to fulfill her deal and reclaim her freedom to get back to her sister. But as they travel and truths are revealed and even more questions arise, she finds it difficult not to give in to a pull she doesn't understand. All while Rian continues to keep his secrets and distance, yet his restraint and his desire toward Elara continue to slip. Elara's curious personality and nack for asking questions, even at times she knows better, made her an intriguing and favorite character. Even at the expense of her own safety, her curious nature left her with no choice but to ask more. I also loved the banter and close connection between Draven, Jaxon, Darius, Silas, and Rian. I definitely found myself laughing as well as my heart warming at their relationships and past histories and how they became the group they are. The active and constant new developments never left this book lacking. Its equal parts character development and plot kept me hooked. With so many new characters toward the end, along with a cliffhanger ending and huge twist, Im dying for book 3!
Captive of Secrets and Storms took a little while to get going for me. The beginning felt somewhat slow as the story established the characters and the stakes, but by about the halfway point, things really picked up and I found myself much more invested. Once the action ramped up, the plot delivered some genuinely high-stakes moments, and I liked seeing the characters develop as they were pushed into increasingly difficult situations.
My one frustration was the “will they, won’t they” dynamic between the MMC and FMC. I understood the tension and why it was there, but after a while I just wanted them to figure it out already! 😂 That said, the character development and escalating stakes ultimately kept me engaged, and the second half made the slower beginning worth pushing through. A solid addition to the Shadowbound Fae series for readers who enjoy fae fantasy with romance, danger, and plenty of tension.
I received an ARC of this book from the author however my review is independent and my own.
"I could not move fast enough to get my hands on this book! After reading Prince of Darkness and Deceit, nothing was going to stop me from diving straight into book two. Responsibilities were completely put on hold because I had reading to do!
The unfolding mystery surrounding Elara finding out the truth about her world bit by bit had me completely hooked. As an avid reader, I usually predict where plotlines are going, but I was not able to guess most of the story ahead of time. I was so pleasantly surprised by the twists!
The emotional pull of this book was immense. I felt like I was experiencing every high and low right alongside Elara—I was actually yelling at the book, that was how deeply invested I was. It kept me up past 3:00 AM because I simply couldn't put it down until I reached the end. Being left with that massive cliffhanger knowing book three isn't out yet has left me completely ruined! A phenomenal 5-star read."
This book picks up right where we left off at the end of book 1 with Elara going with the fae and leaving her home. Poor Elara is reeling from everything she has been through-captivity, betrayals, truths coming to light etc. She has a lot to deal with and yet is still going and trying to help. Its very impressive. She has her moments of fear but it doesn't stop her. Honestly, I have so much anxiety from Elara and Rian, but in the best way. There's so much tension between them. There are moments where I want to slap Rian to wake him up. I also have so many questions from everything that happens in this book. Even more secrets and betrayals. We get some answers but they lead down other mysterious paths. At this point, I am not sure who we can even trust from all the characters with Elara. That ending was wilddd. I cannot wait to read book 3.
This is a true slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers romantasy, and Book 2 is just as wild an adventure as book one!
We learn so much more about the FMC's past as she unwillingly joins the MMC and his cadre on a journey to far-off places way beyond the boundaries of Verdanthia. Honestly, the banter between the MMC’s cadre had me literally kicking my feet. I just loved the cozy found family vibes among the diverse side characters.
The magic system is unique, the world-building is top-tier, and the plot twists will keep you constantly guessing. It does end on a cliffhanger, and there is still so much we don’t know about the FMC (who she is, where she came from, what she’s capable of, and what she’s meant to do).
I am anxiously waiting for book three to hopefully answer all those burning questions!
I received this ebook for free as an ARC reader but my review and opinion are my own.
I loved the first one so much and hoped this one was just as good. It definitely did not disappoint. I was unable to put it down always being left with needing to know more finishing it in just 2 days. The plot was constantly moving and the banter between the characters kept me wanting more. I really enjoyed Jaxon and Elara’s interactions. There were lots of twist and turns along the way that had me guessing and then second guessing which characters we could trust. This series will by far be one of my favorite series for months to come. I am so happy to have found another favorite author and can’t wait to read more books by her. I feel anyone who loves slow burn forbidden romances will really enjoy this book. Can’t wait to read the next in the series.
I am so obsessed with this series. This book took Elara from her home and family and introduced her to a world she had no idea existed. She discovered some answers about her past that raised so many more questions. My mind is racing with all the possibilities, and I could not be happier with where things appear to be going. Rian. That man was infuriating and everything all at once. Exactly my type. I loved the new characters we were introduced to in this and can't wait to learn more about them. That ending was so beyond devastating that I don't think I will be well again until I can read book three and find out what happens next. And I honestly cannot wait to read it again and go through it all once more.
Well, Samantha Britt is absolutely incredible. Book one of the Shadow and Fae series had me desperate for book two. Well book two Captive of Secrets and Storms has me absolutely feral for book three. We get so much more of Elara and Rian’s story but it’s simply not enough- I need more of them now. I thought I couldn’t love Rian anymore but he takes his role as Shadow Daddy to the next level! I absolutely love all of the side characters as well, I want more of everyone’s stories. The stakes are higher than ever by the conclusion of book two. The ending wrecked me- I need to know what happens!
initial thoughts: I seriously love Elara. Rian might be my favorite shadow daddy. Once again I can’t believe I’ve been left with a cliff hanger and I have to WAIT to read the third book. Samantha Britt, stop doing this to me 😭
The slowest slow burn that has ever slow burned. Can I read the next one now?
Elara and Rian continue their travel on some mission too secret to share with her. Elara is feeling more and more trapped as she’s dragged around under the promise to heal Darius which doesn’t seem to have an end. Their mission is interrupted when their ship is nearly destroyed sending them to their only option: the mysterious land where Fae and humans live in harmony. Will this mew land prove to be as perfect as it seems? Or does the shiny outside hide a rotten core?
I love this series! I am very annoyed I have to read it in pieces because I know how it has to end, but I need Samantha to hurry up so I can get there!
Once again Ms. Britt has captured all of my attention so I could finish her book in less than 24 hours.
The angst keeps on angst-ing. I still don't know who Elara should trust, but I am so on this journey of discovery with her. I just hope we get to meet back up with her sister in the 3rd book.
Rian is just brimming over with secrets, and no time to explain any of it. Yet he has plenty of time to murder-stare anyone who spends more than 5 seconds in Elara's personal space.
The pacing and action of this story was so smooth. It is amazing how much is happening in such a short time line, but it all feels very organic and not rushed or contrived in any way. I am so excited for the next book!
This review is based on an ARC and is my honest opinion.
I loved book 1 in this series, and this was another book that I couldn’t put down. I could identify with Elara discovering secrets as the books progressed; I definitely could feel what she was feeling. I enjoyed the world building. We are introduced to new people and locales, and all of that is done very well. The one negative that kept me from rating this higher was some confusion around Elara and Rian’s relationship. Some of the comments he makes are quite rude and contradictory, so I wasn’t sure what to make of that. There is more to come, so I’m reserving judgment until the next book comes out and maybe clears some things up. Even with that, this was a fantastic book and I can’t wait to see what happens next.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Still bound to the shadow fae Elara is forced to travel with them without knowing where they are going or why. Elara is thrust into a world of fae magic, where everything she was taught is proven to be wrong. She doesn't know who to trust and she doesn't know if she should believe her feelings for Rian or not. Every time they seem to take a step forward he suddenly takes a step back. Add in his sudden interest in another woman but completely possessive attitude toward Elara that stops any other male from looking at her, and Elara is thoroughly confused. Super slow burn with a fiercely possesive fae male. You won't want to put this one down.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I am very appreciative of Samantha Britt and BookSprout for the opportunity to read an e-ARC of Captive of Secrets and Storms!
Oh my gosh, this book was such a rollercoaster of events and emotions! I really loved getting to know all of the characters more in this book. The friendships that Elara forms are so heartwarming! And the sense of adventure was so entertaining to read about.
I also really enjoyed the overall continued world building of this series. The magic systems are so intricate and fun to learn about! Plus, I love reading about shadow fae!
The slow burn between Elara and Rian is SLOW burning, but so worth it!! The ending had me actually gasping in shock! I’m so invested in this series and I need to read the next book asap!!
I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
Genre: Fantasy Single-POV First Person
Tropes: -Fae -Enemies to Lovers -Morally Grey MMC -Obnoxiously slow burn -Yearning. So much yearning. -Political Intrigue -Mystery Quest
First Thoughts: If I had a physical copy of this book, I would have thrown it across the room. Then I would of apologized to the book. And then I would of bought a second copy because I hate having damaged books.
I've already marked my calendar for a reread because I was so absorbed in the story I didn't write down my favorite quotes, but I also loved it that much. I also screwed up my sleep schedule... Samantha Britt has quickly made her way to my auto-buy authors, and now I need suggestions for one of her other series to pick up. Ideally a completed series because it's killing me having to wait for each book in this series.
Spice: We are still slow burning, but it's looking like it will be open door spice.
Writing Style: Britt's writing style remains the same as book one - easy to read and immerse in. She doesn't bog down the flow with an abundance of details, and the voice of the characters is clear and unique to each one's personality.
Characters: The core of the cast involves our FMC and MMC, as well as a few characters introduced in book one. We're also introduced to a number of new characters, all with their own personalities and motives - some of whom seem to be joining us for the long haul in this series. We learn more about our FMC while also exploring and learning about the world with her - without information overload.
World Building: While book one kept world building locally contained, this book begins to branch out and teach us about the world - but it isn't overwhelming or via an info dump. We begin to get a bigger picture of the world lore and conflict, but it comes in easy to digest segments that doesn't stall the plot to tell you about some random lore tidbit.
Story: Compared to book one, this story picks up speed and provides more action and higher stakes than before. The pacing is consistent and exciting to keep turning the page. Where as book one relied on misogyny and domestic violence as story points, book two moves past those elements, providing a fresh, safe atmosphere for readers.
Positives: -More action and drama -Better than book one -An actual slow burn
Negatives: -The FMC and MMC lack the ability to communicate with each other and just keep making emotionally charged decisions to spite each other. I kept throwing up my hands at this, but I actually don't mind this. However, I know some people hate miscommunication tropes, so I thought I'd list it here.
Recommend: Yes! This series is one I am doing my best to be patient between each release. It is definitely for people who like slower world building, human/fae worlds and pairing, enemies to lovers, adventures and epic quests. Book two is better than book one.
5⭐️ An absolute wild ride! From enemies to “lovers” to yearning and reader torture 😏 but I loved it! Samantha, you have outdone yourself on this sequel and I can’t wait to continue Elara’s journey. But the longing and the yearning is killing me! Not to mention your ability to write a cliffhanger is amazing (a true love hate relationship we are currently having- love the ends but need more books!)
Topics and tropes: -touch her and 💀 (my fav!) -magic -lost family -found family -enemies to lovers -strong stubborn and resilient FMC -brooding, handsome and secretive MMC -words as your love language (you’ll love Rian) -world building is🙌
What's not to love about this book/series? magic, dark fae, fae deals, secrets, rebellions, a fmc starting to discover truths/knowledge/a world the only home she'd ever known has kept her and most she knew blind to, a prince with shadow magic and his chosen family, other kingdoms and their own secrets, romance/desire, fantastic banter - I NEED the next book ASAP :P - could NOT put this down - read the entire thing in 2 sittings (sleep rudely interrupted or it would have been one sitting).
Cannot recommend this book and series enough and I can't wait to see what happens in book 3 :D - 5/5+ stars.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Book 2 definitely did NOT disappoint!!! This book was just as engaging as the first book and that’s a huge accomplishment!! Rian and Elara are STILL tossing around the pull of their feelings and it’s seriously complicating things!! We learned more about a lot of worlds and there’s more characters and situations to deal, however we still have the loyal to Rian and Elara as they never waiver. This world is amazing, your mind will stay in it for a while after that last page so be prepared. I am definitely on watch for the next book….. yes be prepared as there’s a cliffhanger!!!!.
Wow! Being the second book of The Snowbound Fae series, this book just jumps right in and carries you along. I love the dynamic between Elara and Rian-- so much attraction, tension, and fierce feelings. I love the story's twists and turns, and the banter between all the characters. Friendships are built even when trust is broken And there's another deal on the table. The cliffhanger, ugh, the cliffhanger ... I was left wanting! Book #3 can't come out soon enough for me!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Samantha does it again! I'm so glad to have been able to get an ARC of the second book! Learning about the world with Elara, the push and pull between her and Rian.
🩷Fae🩷 🩷Slow-burn🩷 🩷Fated Mates🩷 🩷Single POV🩷
The world building again, is great! You learn with Elara as she learns about the world, and the truth about herself. The book picks up right where the first one ends, as they head on with their journey and mission, but things don't fully go to plan. I can't wait for the next one! Truly, this is easily in my top favourite books.
I don’t know how she’s done but I think Samantha may have outdone book 1: Prince of Darkness and Deceit! We have new characters to love and some to despise, tension so high I’ll need blood pressure meds after this, and longing that never ends. To say I am excited for the final book of the series would be the ultimate understatement after an ending like this. Thank you for giving me the greatest opportunity in reading this early, Samantha. You truly are an artist in writing!
I loved book 1 and couldn't wait to get to book 2! This starts right where book 1 left off. Elara is still going through coping with all that has happened and realizing that most of the things she was told and taught growing up weren't necessarily how things actually happened. I just love Elara and Rian. We get some new interesting characters in this book as well. And that ending! Will need book 3 immediately!
ARC Review: 4.5 ⭐️ A great second book in the series and that ending!! I can’t wait for book 3
Elara’s story continues and we learn more about the world the history of the continent. We soon realize things are not as they seem and there is much that Elara does not know. As the story goes on we end up with more and more questions. The plot is a little slow but still engaging as we are world building and learning about the characters. The banter is amazing and the slow burns continues to burn!!!
Oh my days where do I start. This book has picked me up thrown me across the room and picked me up again. The angst and terror has left me speechless. I’ve been sat on the edge of my seat the whole way through. Samantha has really woven some massive curveballs into this book and more than three !! It’s phenomenal. I’m desperate for book three.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
My emotions are riding high. Elara & Rian, Elara is someone unique. A quiet badass who doesn't know her worth, yet. Rian, that man needs a good throat punch, no matter how gorgeous or dangerous. I absolutely adore the Shadowbound Fae, at least Rian's crew. I'm so looking forward to reading the next book