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Fae Out of Water #1
Cutie and the Beast
Temp worker David Evans has been dreaming of Dr. Alun Kendrick ever since that one transcription job for him, because holy cats, that voice. Swoon. So when his agency offers him a position as Dr. Kendrick’s temporary office manager, David neglects to mention that he’s been permanently banished from offices. Because, forgiveness? Way easier than permission.
Alun Kendrick, former Queen’s Champion of Faerie’s Seelie Court, takes his job as a psychologist for Portland’s supernatural population extremely seriously. Secrecy is paramount: no non-supe can know of their existence. So when a gods-bedamned human shows up to replace his office manager, he intends to send the man packing. It shouldn’t be difficult—in the two hundred years since he was cursed, no human has ever failed to run screaming from his hideous face.
But cheeky David isn’t intimidated, and despite himself, Alun is drawn to David in a way that can only spell disaster: when fae consort with humans, it never ends well. And if the human has secrets of his own? The disaster might be greater than either of them could ever imagine.
Alun Kendrick, former Queen’s Champion of Faerie’s Seelie Court, takes his job as a psychologist for Portland’s supernatural population extremely seriously. Secrecy is paramount: no non-supe can know of their existence. So when a gods-bedamned human shows up to replace his office manager, he intends to send the man packing. It shouldn’t be difficult—in the two hundred years since he was cursed, no human has ever failed to run screaming from his hideous face.
But cheeky David isn’t intimidated, and despite himself, Alun is drawn to David in a way that can only spell disaster: when fae consort with humans, it never ends well. And if the human has secrets of his own? The disaster might be greater than either of them could ever imagine.
283 pages, ebook
First published July 24, 2017
244 people are currently reading
1086 people want to read
About the author
E.J. Russell
54 books412 followersE.J. Russell –grace, mother of three, recovering actor–writes romance in a rainbow of flavors. Count on high snark, low angst and happy endings.
Reality? Eh, not so much.
Reality? Eh, not so much.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 358 reviews
August 15, 2017
*2.5 stars*
Okay, I seem to be in the minority here, but this book was a bit hard for me to finish. Don't get me wrong, it's cute, but it wasn't exactly what I thought I was getting.
I thought that the majority of the book was going to be David learning to love "the beast," Dr. Alun Kendrick, despite his looks and surly demeanor. I mean, I expected it to be more or less a play on Beauty and the Beast. However, that isn't really what this story is about.
We didn't get a good sense of what Alun looks like in beast-mode (large head and prominent brow ridges was as much as I gleaned), and the attraction between David and Alun was practically there from the start, despite Alun's looks. The resolution with the whole beauty-vs-beast aspect happened pretty early on, so the rest of the book took me a bit by surprise.
There is a LOT happening in this story, and the story is LONG. I know, I know, it's only 280-some odd pages, but it felt like a 400+ page story. One plot melds into the next and there is a thing with brothers and family and loyalty and jealousy... it was a lot to handle in one story.
I liked David a lot. I thought he was spunky and cute, but I didn't really love Alun, whose personality never really snapped into place for me. They were okay together, I guess, but I just didn't totally feel them as a couple.
I guess I was expected something different and I felt like a got more of a hodgepodge. Not a bad story, but it didn't quite scratch my itch.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
Okay, I seem to be in the minority here, but this book was a bit hard for me to finish. Don't get me wrong, it's cute, but it wasn't exactly what I thought I was getting.
I thought that the majority of the book was going to be David learning to love "the beast," Dr. Alun Kendrick, despite his looks and surly demeanor. I mean, I expected it to be more or less a play on Beauty and the Beast. However, that isn't really what this story is about.
We didn't get a good sense of what Alun looks like in beast-mode (large head and prominent brow ridges was as much as I gleaned), and the attraction between David and Alun was practically there from the start, despite Alun's looks. The resolution with the whole beauty-vs-beast aspect happened pretty early on, so the rest of the book took me a bit by surprise.
There is a LOT happening in this story, and the story is LONG. I know, I know, it's only 280-some odd pages, but it felt like a 400+ page story. One plot melds into the next and there is a thing with brothers and family and loyalty and jealousy... it was a lot to handle in one story.
I liked David a lot. I thought he was spunky and cute, but I didn't really love Alun, whose personality never really snapped into place for me. They were okay together, I guess, but I just didn't totally feel them as a couple.
I guess I was expected something different and I felt like a got more of a hodgepodge. Not a bad story, but it didn't quite scratch my itch.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
January 27, 2021
Why did I read this again? Oh yeah, someone recommended it as a funny and snarky read and I'm a sucker for that.
From now on I trust NONE OF YOU!
This is a Beauty and the Beast retelling, although it's very loosely adapted.
The 'beauty' is named David, although it should be Gary Stu, who is a human that is unaware of the paranormal world. The 'beast' is a fae warrior who was cursed and exiled from Fairie, and he's a bit grumpy about the whole thing. Gary, I mean David, gets a job working for him and then just starts Stu-ing it up all over the place!!
Get it, boy!
So Gar..vid spreads his magical sunshine all over the damn place. Everyone loves him. Everyone wants him. Everyone needs him in their life! He will turn your frown upside down!
Ack! Some taxidermist needs to be fired. Or jailed really.
It's probably unnecessary to say that I didn't find the snarky humor - more like mild dad jokes humor. When dad is trying to cheer you up after you got picked last for the dodgeball team again.
Garvid is just too good. It becomes cloying after a while. The only thing he isn't good at is dancing, which is a running 'joke' in the book. But, then he really is the best dancer too because everyone is so charmed by his terrible dancing that they love it, and him, even more.
From now on I trust NONE OF YOU!
This is a Beauty and the Beast retelling, although it's very loosely adapted.
The 'beauty' is named David, although it should be Gary Stu, who is a human that is unaware of the paranormal world. The 'beast' is a fae warrior who was cursed and exiled from Fairie, and he's a bit grumpy about the whole thing. Gary, I mean David, gets a job working for him and then just starts Stu-ing it up all over the place!!
Get it, boy!
So Gar..vid spreads his magical sunshine all over the damn place. Everyone loves him. Everyone wants him. Everyone needs him in their life! He will turn your frown upside down!
Ack! Some taxidermist needs to be fired. Or jailed really.
It's probably unnecessary to say that I didn't find the snarky humor - more like mild dad jokes humor. When dad is trying to cheer you up after you got picked last for the dodgeball team again.
Garvid is just too good. It becomes cloying after a while. The only thing he isn't good at is dancing, which is a running 'joke' in the book. But, then he really is the best dancer too because everyone is so charmed by his terrible dancing that they love it, and him, even more.
July 9, 2017
I truly enjoyed the first two-thirds of this book, but then it fell a bit flat to me.
When the story began, quirky temp worker David's character was lots of fun to read, as he invariably got himself into one sticky situation after another, especially where his bosses were concerned.
Then it was a joy to see him finally find his footing and become more useful around the supernatural psychologist's office than grumpy doctor Alun could have ever imagined.
I really enjoyed David's interactions with Alun's Clients and his extremely unorthodox methods of helping those in need, particularly the young dragon prince and the aging leader of the vampire clan.
Also, the banter and snark between the bizarre office temp and the obstinate doctor was very entertaining to watch.
However, once they visited Faerie, the world from which Alun had been exiled, because he was no longer beautiful (#ShallowMuch), the previous dynamic changed a bit and it didn't quite hold my interest as it had before.
The book was a tiny bit predictable, but I didn't really mind. It was pretty low-steam and did end with an HEA, but David's antics kept me (mostly) entertained, so I will most likely read the next two books in the series, those for Alun's brothers.
I'd rate this one at around 3.25 stars.
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My ARC copy of the book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for a fair, unbiased review.
See All My Latest Reads (Review Quick-Links)
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August 2, 2024
David Evans is the world's unluckiest temp worker, who cannot seem to hold down a job. And with his Aunt's health being extremely precarious, he really needs the money. Thanks to an office-wide influenza that incapacitates the head of the temp agency, David finds himself unexpectedly working at a psychiatric cabinet.
Dr. Alun Kendrik is a cursed fae who's been alive for thousands of years, trying to make amends for the past two hundred years. And he is not happy with his new human receptionist, because the entire supernatural (a.k.a. supe) community's at risk of being revealed.
I had just finished reading a very depressing novel for my book club (torture porn indeed) and was in need of a pick me up. Six books later here I am, pondering my review posting schedule so it doesn't look like I only read lurid romance novels with cheesy titles.
This story basically has all the corny syrupy clichés you can imagine, and then some... but it also has a rather intriguing cast of characters... and a lot of eye-candy... and lovable outcasts... and sizzling chemistry... and of course a whole lot of hints that are begging for more world building exploration.
Score: 2.3/5 stars
Some truly tooth-rotting saccharine stuff, yet for some reason it keeps making me want to continue delving into the universe. I feel like I should be ashamed of myself... but hey, I'm not depressed anymore.
========================
Review of book 2: The Druid Next Door
Review of book 3: Bad Boy's Bard
Other books set in the Mythmatched World:
--------------------------------------
Review of Single White Incubus
Review of Vampire With Benefits
Review of Demon on the Down-Low
Dr. Alun Kendrik is a cursed fae who's been alive for thousands of years, trying to make amends for the past two hundred years. And he is not happy with his new human receptionist, because the entire supernatural (a.k.a. supe) community's at risk of being revealed.
I had just finished reading a very depressing novel for my book club (torture porn indeed) and was in need of a pick me up. Six books later here I am, pondering my review posting schedule so it doesn't look like I only read lurid romance novels with cheesy titles.
This story basically has all the corny syrupy clichés you can imagine, and then some... but it also has a rather intriguing cast of characters... and a lot of eye-candy... and lovable outcasts... and sizzling chemistry... and of course a whole lot of hints that are begging for more world building exploration.
Score: 2.3/5 stars
Some truly tooth-rotting saccharine stuff, yet for some reason it keeps making me want to continue delving into the universe. I feel like I should be ashamed of myself... but hey, I'm not depressed anymore.
========================
Review of book 2: The Druid Next Door
Review of book 3: Bad Boy's Bard
Other books set in the Mythmatched World:
--------------------------------------
Review of Single White Incubus
Review of Vampire With Benefits
Review of Demon on the Down-Low
January 4, 2021
AUDIOBOOK Jan 2021: Joel Leslie KILLED IT! 5++
Original EBOOK Review Aug 2017: 4 STARS
Very cute and sweet, with a touch of danger. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this quirky fantasy romance, my first book by this author. The story moved along at a great pace, the characters were interesting, if not very deep, and the writing was good.
I don't want to give much away in this story that depicts a world where supernatural beings live secretly amongst the humans. But here, the two worlds collide in the beginning of the story and the fallout unveils many secrets.
While there is a lot of UST, don't expect a lot of sexy times. Plot took precedence here over extended sex scenes. The cutie is definitely adorable, although he surprised me with how easily he transitioned from the world of humans to the supernatural. Insta-acceptance. The Beast, a cursed fae lord, plays the part well and is fun to see him in the role of a psychologist for the supe society.
I liked the world building and am definitely going to continue on with this series. If you're a fan of R. Cooper's "Beings in Love" series, this should be right up your alley along with a little extra action.
Original EBOOK Review Aug 2017: 4 STARS
Very cute and sweet, with a touch of danger. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this quirky fantasy romance, my first book by this author. The story moved along at a great pace, the characters were interesting, if not very deep, and the writing was good.
I don't want to give much away in this story that depicts a world where supernatural beings live secretly amongst the humans. But here, the two worlds collide in the beginning of the story and the fallout unveils many secrets.
While there is a lot of UST, don't expect a lot of sexy times. Plot took precedence here over extended sex scenes. The cutie is definitely adorable, although he surprised me with how easily he transitioned from the world of humans to the supernatural. Insta-acceptance. The Beast, a cursed fae lord, plays the part well and is fun to see him in the role of a psychologist for the supe society.
I liked the world building and am definitely going to continue on with this series. If you're a fan of R. Cooper's "Beings in Love" series, this should be right up your alley along with a little extra action.
February 20, 2020
This is a very nice story. Besides, I had needed to read something a little lighter and happier for some time, so it worked perfectly.
One of the reasons why I have practically stopped reading MF romances recently and read almost exclusively MM, is that the characters are much more interesting. They have more expressive personalities and, to say it simple, they are much less annoying. David is a great example. He is a goofy character, he makes a lot of stupid mistakes, and some funny events happen to him. Usually, these things irritate me. Especially in female characters, which usually become then almost grotesque and resemble stereotypical silly blondes who are waiting for the guy who will save them from the world. And even though David's behavior sometimes annoyed me as well, I generally find him a very nice character. I like Alun even more. I am surprised that he is not really depicted as a tortured hero. Although he certainly is one. He is a very interesting and complex character. And I absolutely love his brothers. For a long time I had no such need to reach for another book in the series to see what would happen to the characters I met.
The plot is fine. This is not something that I will remember years later, but it is okay. To begin with, I like the whole idea. Alun as a psychiatrist for supernatural beings, his patients and their problems, the reasons why David became his receptionist. These are all really good moments and solid elements of this story. I also like the whole idea with a separate race of supernatural people endowed with mysterious powers on the verge of extinction. The reason for Alun's deformation is also very interesting. Yes, there are some definitely good ideas in this story.
Of course, there were also moments that annoyed me. Like all those moments that could be avoided if the main characters talked to each other like two grown-ups and did not jump to conclusions from their behavior. This is probably the most annoying thing about this book. I think that the tension between David and Alun could be built on something else. Their great love is also not completely reliable for me. Paradoxically, it would probably be more credible to me if it had some magical element in it - the destiny, star-crossed lovers or concept of one perfect person for everyone - something I usually don't like. It would be easier then to explain the feelings between the main characters, and this story definitely created an opportunity for it.
So the book definitely came to the perfect moment when I wanted to read something like that. I will no doubt read the next books in this series, I can't wait for Mal's story.
One of the reasons why I have practically stopped reading MF romances recently and read almost exclusively MM, is that the characters are much more interesting. They have more expressive personalities and, to say it simple, they are much less annoying. David is a great example. He is a goofy character, he makes a lot of stupid mistakes, and some funny events happen to him. Usually, these things irritate me. Especially in female characters, which usually become then almost grotesque and resemble stereotypical silly blondes who are waiting for the guy who will save them from the world. And even though David's behavior sometimes annoyed me as well, I generally find him a very nice character. I like Alun even more. I am surprised that he is not really depicted as a tortured hero. Although he certainly is one. He is a very interesting and complex character. And I absolutely love his brothers. For a long time I had no such need to reach for another book in the series to see what would happen to the characters I met.
The plot is fine. This is not something that I will remember years later, but it is okay. To begin with, I like the whole idea. Alun as a psychiatrist for supernatural beings, his patients and their problems, the reasons why David became his receptionist. These are all really good moments and solid elements of this story. I also like the whole idea with a separate race of supernatural people endowed with mysterious powers on the verge of extinction. The reason for Alun's deformation is also very interesting. Yes, there are some definitely good ideas in this story.
Of course, there were also moments that annoyed me. Like all those moments that could be avoided if the main characters talked to each other like two grown-ups and did not jump to conclusions from their behavior. This is probably the most annoying thing about this book. I think that the tension between David and Alun could be built on something else. Their great love is also not completely reliable for me. Paradoxically, it would probably be more credible to me if it had some magical element in it - the destiny, star-crossed lovers or concept of one perfect person for everyone - something I usually don't like. It would be easier then to explain the feelings between the main characters, and this story definitely created an opportunity for it.
So the book definitely came to the perfect moment when I wanted to read something like that. I will no doubt read the next books in this series, I can't wait for Mal's story.
October 19, 2020
1,5 stars.
Did I like this book? Well the first 20% were great... then it became boring. So very boring.
Did I like the MC's? Sort of. Did I care enough to keep interest in the book... no.
Did I care about the fantasy aspect? Big no.
Did i finish it? Yes. So that's something, isn't it?
I could see where the author wanted to go with this book, it wasn't that heavy and the humor made it easier. But the humor didn't work for me. David annoyed me more than anything after a while.
This ain't my genre, not at all. I can deal with vampires and werewolves. And ghosts, I love them. But this... well... it didn't work for me, so don't trust my judgement. You'll probably like it.
Did I like this book? Well the first 20% were great... then it became boring. So very boring.
Did I like the MC's? Sort of. Did I care enough to keep interest in the book... no.
Did I care about the fantasy aspect? Big no.
Did i finish it? Yes. So that's something, isn't it?
I could see where the author wanted to go with this book, it wasn't that heavy and the humor made it easier. But the humor didn't work for me. David annoyed me more than anything after a while.
This ain't my genre, not at all. I can deal with vampires and werewolves. And ghosts, I love them. But this... well... it didn't work for me, so don't trust my judgement. You'll probably like it.
June 5, 2022
This went from entertaining and very promising with otherworldly characters to all over the map. The focus on the two main characters gets lost in the process and the plot turned silly.
July 13, 2017
This was WONDERFUL!
If you’re a fan of high fantasy – fairies, and curses, and warlocks and vampires … with a giant sense of humor and some really fun, flirty, sexy romance - this is for you! It’s also this great mix of fairy tale “Beauty and the Beast” mixed in – with a bit of “Cinderella” too.
See, there’s more to David than meets the eye and while he’s super funny, cute and charming as he is – over the course of the story, we find out he’s got more to show us. (The Cinderella factor.)
Then we’ve got stick in the mud Alun who has been cursed and is our “beast”. He’s curmudgeonly and reminds me very much of Scrooge. When he falls for David it’s a total disaster in the making and his guilty conscience won’t let him enjoy it. It takes (practically) an act of God to get this guy to finally give in.
But… there’s a whole host of others – a Dragon who won’t value his treasure, a Vampire who won’t drink blood, an aging aunt… and more!
This was just so much fun! It moves along quickly because the dialog is so witty and the banter and tension between David and Alun so thick. There’s some action and a mystery and of course – the curse.
I’m not even that big of a fan when it comes to high fantasy - but this was great.
Highly recommended!
5 of 5 stars
If you’re a fan of high fantasy – fairies, and curses, and warlocks and vampires … with a giant sense of humor and some really fun, flirty, sexy romance - this is for you! It’s also this great mix of fairy tale “Beauty and the Beast” mixed in – with a bit of “Cinderella” too.
See, there’s more to David than meets the eye and while he’s super funny, cute and charming as he is – over the course of the story, we find out he’s got more to show us. (The Cinderella factor.)
Then we’ve got stick in the mud Alun who has been cursed and is our “beast”. He’s curmudgeonly and reminds me very much of Scrooge. When he falls for David it’s a total disaster in the making and his guilty conscience won’t let him enjoy it. It takes (practically) an act of God to get this guy to finally give in.
But… there’s a whole host of others – a Dragon who won’t value his treasure, a Vampire who won’t drink blood, an aging aunt… and more!
This was just so much fun! It moves along quickly because the dialog is so witty and the banter and tension between David and Alun so thick. There’s some action and a mystery and of course – the curse.
I’m not even that big of a fan when it comes to high fantasy - but this was great.
Highly recommended!
5 of 5 stars
May 3, 2025
August 2017: Adorable and funny with a dose of suspenseful fantasy thrown in. MC David is such a joy. Solid writing. Would like to have seen better world building and wished the author had caught the error of calling Alun "Alan" several times. On to book #2 when it's released later his month.
REREAD March 2019: I've actually read this numerous times now and am quite enamored with our whimsical David, who appears in all three books, and the story. I've decided it actually deserves a solid four stars, maybe a bit more.
August 21, 2019
I found this really amusing. Light-hearted humor coupled with David's mishaps made this a very fun read for me. I love reading about Fae, competition between Seelie and Unseelie Courts - every author gives their own interpretation. In this case it was a bit romanticized but I liked anyway.
Dr Alun Kendrick is our protagonist - broody, consumed with anguish and self recrimination for the events long past. He has been cursed for his misdeeds and has to hide in the shadows because of his ghastly appearance. He gives back to supe community by helping those in need for psychiatric care and emotional guidance. But all of his control and measured life goes out the window when a new temp secretary comes to work for his office by accident. Color slowly leaches into his life and his heart. There was a bit of arrogance left from his days as Faerie Queen's Champion but he has come a long way, and David helped him even more in realizing what was more important than status and physical beauty.
David Evans is a man on a mission. He needs this job to keep from being drowned in medical bills for his aunt. He will deal with the grumpy attitude, with obnoxious clients and the gray bleakness of his new office. But despite all the rudeness, he sees the pain Alun is trying to hide from the world. David takes it upon himself to bring color and taste into Alun's dreary life by being his cheerful kind self. But all is not so simple when the secrets David had no knowledge of come to light shattering his perception of the world and opening opportunities he could only dream of.
Alun has come far on his own but he truly reached his full potential with David by his side. He needed someone to show him how to forgive himself, how to live again and how to be happy. David was exactly what Alun needed. I enjoyed the intrigue, a bit of magic and the sweet couple both Alun and David turned out to be. Yes, there were moments when Alun misbehaved and reverted to his insufferable self but they were few and far between. Overall, I liked the world Ms Russell has build and can't wait to dig into Mal's story, the middle Kendrick brother. I recommend it.
Dr Alun Kendrick is our protagonist - broody, consumed with anguish and self recrimination for the events long past. He has been cursed for his misdeeds and has to hide in the shadows because of his ghastly appearance. He gives back to supe community by helping those in need for psychiatric care and emotional guidance. But all of his control and measured life goes out the window when a new temp secretary comes to work for his office by accident. Color slowly leaches into his life and his heart. There was a bit of arrogance left from his days as Faerie Queen's Champion but he has come a long way, and David helped him even more in realizing what was more important than status and physical beauty.
David Evans is a man on a mission. He needs this job to keep from being drowned in medical bills for his aunt. He will deal with the grumpy attitude, with obnoxious clients and the gray bleakness of his new office. But despite all the rudeness, he sees the pain Alun is trying to hide from the world. David takes it upon himself to bring color and taste into Alun's dreary life by being his cheerful kind self. But all is not so simple when the secrets David had no knowledge of come to light shattering his perception of the world and opening opportunities he could only dream of.
Alun has come far on his own but he truly reached his full potential with David by his side. He needed someone to show him how to forgive himself, how to live again and how to be happy. David was exactly what Alun needed. I enjoyed the intrigue, a bit of magic and the sweet couple both Alun and David turned out to be. Yes, there were moments when Alun misbehaved and reverted to his insufferable self but they were few and far between. Overall, I liked the world Ms Russell has build and can't wait to dig into Mal's story, the middle Kendrick brother. I recommend it.
March 8, 2022
Okay so I'm going about things a bit backwards but having read all the later books in E.J. Russell's Mythmatched world, I thought I should go back to the beginning with the Kendrick brothers 😁
I loved this one, the mix between humour, mythology and the relationship worked beautifully for me. I'm a total Celtic myth nerd anyway and the Seelie/Unseelie Courts are one of my most favourite things to read about.
I loved the take E.J. uses to set up her mythological world, loved that the druids were female 😉 and while I think many people expected an interpretation of beauty and the beast, this book isn't really that at all.
The relationship between David and Alun fluctuates between lust, UST, anger, frustration and love, coupled with the chunks of information we get as the narrative unfolds. There's some clever interpretation of the Fae Court used in this universe which I very much appreciated and I felt the villain was also well done and fit perfectly within the world created.
Now onto Mal's book!
I loved this one, the mix between humour, mythology and the relationship worked beautifully for me. I'm a total Celtic myth nerd anyway and the Seelie/Unseelie Courts are one of my most favourite things to read about.
I loved the take E.J. uses to set up her mythological world, loved that the druids were female 😉 and while I think many people expected an interpretation of beauty and the beast, this book isn't really that at all.
The relationship between David and Alun fluctuates between lust, UST, anger, frustration and love, coupled with the chunks of information we get as the narrative unfolds. There's some clever interpretation of the Fae Court used in this universe which I very much appreciated and I felt the villain was also well done and fit perfectly within the world created.
Now onto Mal's book!
July 8, 2021
This book was actually 2 stars for me. I had to give it the extra star because I listened to the audiobook and Joel Leslie was incredible. I give his narration 5 stars. So I rounded up to 3.
Anyway, I thought this was going to be a gay take on beauty and the beast. I think beauty and the beast was my favorite fairytale, and I’ve read several books that followed this theme. This story really was all over the place and I just didn’t enjoy it.
Anyway, I thought this was going to be a gay take on beauty and the beast. I think beauty and the beast was my favorite fairytale, and I’ve read several books that followed this theme. This story really was all over the place and I just didn’t enjoy it.
November 29, 2021
I'm really enjoying the work of EJ. It feels so creative and interesting, how they mix magic and modernity and myth. And David is an absolute cutie!
May 25, 2021
I listened to this book in audio format and I have to say that Joel did a fantastic job with all of the voices and the accents (he's always so good with British/Scottish/Welsh types of accents!)
I loved David so much, how strong he was and how he was fighting for what he wanted and refused to let people make decisions for him or talk like he wasn't there and didn't get a say.
This is, of course, a bit of a play on Beauty and the Beast. But throw in the fae, shifters, Faerie, all sorts of other supernatural beings, and there's a huge world here! I've actually already read the first spin-off series from this series (and it was cute hearing some names of people who will later get their own stories!) but I am glad to be going back to the original trilogy and reading them!
Alun was a bit harder to read, obviously, since he was the stubborn one who kept fighting things between him and David. But there were just some sweet moments between them and I enjoyed the story very much. Low steam, high on the world building and plot. Lovely in audio format!
I loved David so much, how strong he was and how he was fighting for what he wanted and refused to let people make decisions for him or talk like he wasn't there and didn't get a say.
This is, of course, a bit of a play on Beauty and the Beast. But throw in the fae, shifters, Faerie, all sorts of other supernatural beings, and there's a huge world here! I've actually already read the first spin-off series from this series (and it was cute hearing some names of people who will later get their own stories!) but I am glad to be going back to the original trilogy and reading them!
Alun was a bit harder to read, obviously, since he was the stubborn one who kept fighting things between him and David. But there were just some sweet moments between them and I enjoyed the story very much. Low steam, high on the world building and plot. Lovely in audio format!
July 31, 2017
3.5/5 Stars - This book was 4-4.5 star book material for the first 60% or so, but the ending had me feeling a little down.
The book started off with quirky temp worker David getting a job managing Alun's office. I really enjoyed David as a character. He was fun and quirky with a little bit of a devious streak. He kept getting into trouble with work and just life in general. His failings were pretty hilarious and didn't distract from his character in any major ways. But there's also a lot more to David than just what meets the eye.
Alun is the "beast" of the story and was frustrating to deal with every step of the way. He fought his attraction to David tooth and nail for most of the book and there were a few points that I almost wanted to pull my hair out, but eventually he came-to and saw the err of his ways. Unfortunately, I didn't feel like Alun's character was quite as well developed as David's. Maybe it's because he spent a lot of time brooding and I didn't get to see much from him, but with a character as bright and cheery as David, I kind of expected a little more from Alun. I mean, I know he's supposed to be cursed and all, but there was something major missing from his character and it threw me off a little bit.
The book went downhill a little bit when David and Alun went back to visit the Fae world. There was something about it that just drained the whole life out of the book. Typically, in books with this dramatic of a scene change, you put the dull and ugly world first and save all of the laughs and happiness for the end to make the HEA more satisfying, but this one went backward. Alun's world was dark and definitely not a good follow-up to the office where David was making me laugh every other page.
All in all it was a good book, there were just a few things that bothered me a little bit. I loved David and Alun was okay. He grew on me a little bit throughout the story, but I still don't think he quite matched up to David very well. However, this is my first E.J. Russell read and I'll hopefully be reading more from this author in the future.
Reviewed by Jordan at Alpha Book Club.
Disclaimer: This book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed herein are my own and not influenced by the author or the publisher in any way.
The book started off with quirky temp worker David getting a job managing Alun's office. I really enjoyed David as a character. He was fun and quirky with a little bit of a devious streak. He kept getting into trouble with work and just life in general. His failings were pretty hilarious and didn't distract from his character in any major ways. But there's also a lot more to David than just what meets the eye.
Alun is the "beast" of the story and was frustrating to deal with every step of the way. He fought his attraction to David tooth and nail for most of the book and there were a few points that I almost wanted to pull my hair out, but eventually he came-to and saw the err of his ways. Unfortunately, I didn't feel like Alun's character was quite as well developed as David's. Maybe it's because he spent a lot of time brooding and I didn't get to see much from him, but with a character as bright and cheery as David, I kind of expected a little more from Alun. I mean, I know he's supposed to be cursed and all, but there was something major missing from his character and it threw me off a little bit.
The book went downhill a little bit when David and Alun went back to visit the Fae world. There was something about it that just drained the whole life out of the book. Typically, in books with this dramatic of a scene change, you put the dull and ugly world first and save all of the laughs and happiness for the end to make the HEA more satisfying, but this one went backward. Alun's world was dark and definitely not a good follow-up to the office where David was making me laugh every other page.
All in all it was a good book, there were just a few things that bothered me a little bit. I loved David and Alun was okay. He grew on me a little bit throughout the story, but I still don't think he quite matched up to David very well. However, this is my first E.J. Russell read and I'll hopefully be reading more from this author in the future.
Reviewed by Jordan at Alpha Book Club.
Disclaimer: This book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed herein are my own and not influenced by the author or the publisher in any way.
March 24, 2019
4.5 stars
August 21, 2021
2.5 stars
This was a fun ride - I liked the characters (even though David was on the border of tstl), the writing was decent and the universe interesting. I'll probably read the next on in the series.
This was a fun ride - I liked the characters (even though David was on the border of tstl), the writing was decent and the universe interesting. I'll probably read the next on in the series.
October 5, 2025
3-3.5⭐️
Audiobook 🎧
Narrator: Joel Leslie
Cute-ish read. David’s character was entertaining. HEA
Audiobook 🎧
Narrator: Joel Leslie
Cute-ish read. David’s character was entertaining. HEA
June 24, 2017
Fae, fights and falling in Love - this is a very entertaining story.
Dr Alun Kendrick is a sidhe lord who has been banished from the fairy kingdom. Cursed and deformed he now lives in the human realm and has a career as a psychologist treating supes (supernatural beings) who have psychological problems, and humans who have had traumatic brushes with the world of the supernatural. He is estranged from his two brothers, banished from the fairy kingdom and scarred by his past. He is a loner and keeps to himself working from his dull grey office, grieving for his lost love and his glorious past. And he exists in this grey world until he meets David.
Despite having a disastrous employment record as a temp David has managed to finagle his way into employment and he is determined to make this temp role as office manager work. He needs the money to look after his ageing aunt. When he meets Dr Alun Kendrick he is surprised to find that he is deformed but David is determined to spread some light and colour in Alun's office and he does so.
Alun is surprised by how much he is attracted to David and the lightness he brings with him but he knows he can't have a relationship with David because because relationships between the supes and human beings are forbidden. When Alun's brother pays him a surprise visit he suggests that there may be a way for Alun to be with David. There may even be a way for Alun to return to the fae kingdom but it will involve facing down his enemies.
Meanwhile David is entranced when he realises that he is attracted to Alun and that there is much to Alun beneath his scars and deformity. David also comes to realise that mysteries also lie within his own life and as he takes steps to explore this attraction with Alun he embarks on an adventure that will leads him to discovering himself, discovering love and discovering an entire new world.
This is an excellent story with a fairy tale feel to it. It has a beauty and the beast feel to it but it is of course a broader more complex and highly entertaining story than the well known fairy tale.
It is a very rich story with characters who don't play by the rules and lots of escapades and funny moments. David who is prepared to take a chance on love even when it comes in the form of a grumpy and strange man. David is able to look beyond Alun's physical deformities to see Alun's heart and the heart of the situation.
Alun is the heavy hearted and burdened hero who is a bit lost in his personal tragedy but as he gets to know David he becomes determined to seek something different and break free of the past which has kept him down. In David he sees an opportunity to have something new and even though it may be forbidden he is willing to take a chance.
I adored David. I think he must be one of my favourite mm characters after Jory of the Mary Calmes fame. David was snarky, funny, endearing, courageous and simply funny and his character brought life to the story. David refuses to let circumstances dictate who he should be and he doesn't settle for the obvious way out either which leads him to do the unpredictable and to be unpredictable in a very entertaining way.
And all of this makes for a very entertaining read.
This is the first story in a trilogy and it creates a setting for future stories and still manages to be very amusing and has a way of engaging the reader. It was a pleasure to read and I am looking forward to reading the whole series This author has a real knack for telling stories with magic and the supernatural, and the author does so in a way that is creative and fresh.
I really enjoyed this and I will definitely be reading the others in the series.
Copy provided by Riptide Publishing via Netgalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
March 14, 2021
This was super cute! I loved David and his constant pop culture references, optimism, and terrible dancing. Alun was gruff but caring, and the twist about his curse was fascinating.
My one minor complaint is that it could have used a sex scene other than the frottage midway through. Yeah, I like penetrative sex. So sue me. Still highly recommended, and I look forward to the brothers' books.
*second time through over three years later and the lack of more sex scenes didn’t bother me a bit. Guess my priorities have changed. 😂*
My one minor complaint is that it could have used a sex scene other than the frottage midway through. Yeah, I like penetrative sex. So sue me. Still highly recommended, and I look forward to the brothers' books.
*second time through over three years later and the lack of more sex scenes didn’t bother me a bit. Guess my priorities have changed. 😂*
November 6, 2020
I thoroughly enjoyed this. This was the first book I have read from this author and I liked the mm fairy retelling of Beauty and the Beast in a more modern setting.
I felt the story had a good flow a lot of great side characters and just enough baddies to keep it interesting.
The two MCs though were my favorites. A spunky, klutzy cinnamon roll and a curmudgeon cursed beast. They played off of each other as well as they could be with so much going on in the story around them, because of them and once again, I didn't mind. It was a well-done feel-good story that I really appreciated.
I felt the story had a good flow a lot of great side characters and just enough baddies to keep it interesting.
The two MCs though were my favorites. A spunky, klutzy cinnamon roll and a curmudgeon cursed beast. They played off of each other as well as they could be with so much going on in the story around them, because of them and once again, I didn't mind. It was a well-done feel-good story that I really appreciated.
October 24, 2018
An obvious twist on beauty and the beast trope. A very sweet and cute modern day version with a supernatural twist. At times I didn’t now who was more clueless, David, the dorkable twink or Alun, the grouchy psychologist who never sees the obvious. Overall a fun read.
December 2, 2023
I read this book as part of a challenge, and I am so glad that I chose it. I absolutely loved everything about this story. The main characters had plenty of insecurities...but their personalities are actually what sold me on the book. Alun and David were such opposites, yet they were still so in sync with each other. Everything they did had the same intention and the same outcome; they were just very different in their approaches. David was snarky and sarcastic and blunt in the ways he put the “elderly" in their places and opened their minds to new possibilities. The story, based on the title...had a “Beauty and the Beast” aspect, yet the author made it unique to this particular story. Alun’s struggles were often heartbreaking because of the history and the reasoning behind his appearance. It was a nice touch to see little signs that things were healing as the story advanced. Alun was so oblivious to it all due to his guilt and grief. The entire story and the plot were very well done, and I was very happy how the story ended. The "rules" of the supernatural communities and the various inhabitants were interesting as well as spellbinding. This book can easily be described as "simply good fun". The fantasy, the depth, the romance, it was all so well done and so cohesive and comprehensive that I had to give it 5 very bright and enthusiastic stars. Readers have such diverse tastes in books and authors that I seldom recommend a book, but if you are a fantasy genre fan, this might just be your kind of story.
July 25, 2017
3.5 stars
Cutie and the Beast is the first of E.J. Russell's new Fae Out of Water series that centered on three noble Welsh Fae brothers of the Seelie Court of Faerie. Alun, the eldest, had been cursed after fatalistic failing, was exiled out of Faeri for over two hundred years. In the Outer World, he's known as Dr. Alun Kendrik, a psychologist who helped Supernatural people and humans who traumatized after witnessing the supes. David temped at his private clinic as his office manager and there started the clash of two headstrong characters.
This is quite an entertaining tale and a promising start to the series. Set in AU Portland - proper choice in view of its reputation as the most haunted city of the Pacific Northwest, I think - the story was alternately told from Alun and David's POVs. As David was an allegedly human of the modern world, it's easier to take his thought and view on things. Alun's side was trickier as his past; such as his cursed and his supernatural ability or trouble with sibling, was only hinted in crumbs. So it's a bit of juggle for me at first; as much as I dislike info dump on a story, the insufficient amount of it could get me frustrated.
Alun and David were polar opposites in look and manner, that their engagements generate reader's (my) amusements. Picture "Beauty and the Beast" - minus the tower cell or dungeon - and you got part of the story down. Their yoyo-like romance might appear as typical in PNR story - somewhat instant and all that - yet I liked the character's approach on dealing with things once each realized they made mistakes and really go for what they want.
On another note, for all the power or ability the noble or Seelie Court of Faerie had, it bugged me that it took so long for them to detect the bad guy(s), and disliking the rigid bloody Fae principles, traditions yada yada. I guess that's dope for next installment, but still!!
That saying, I look forward to find out more of this universe on the next two installments, as this book hadn't reveal much in the world building or the intricacies between supernatural being. On a last note, I especially love the ending of Cutie and the Beast that brought the point beauty is in the eye of beholder.
Advanced copy of this book is kindly provided by the author/publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Cutie and the Beast is the first of E.J. Russell's new Fae Out of Water series that centered on three noble Welsh Fae brothers of the Seelie Court of Faerie. Alun, the eldest, had been cursed after fatalistic failing, was exiled out of Faeri for over two hundred years. In the Outer World, he's known as Dr. Alun Kendrik, a psychologist who helped Supernatural people and humans who traumatized after witnessing the supes. David temped at his private clinic as his office manager and there started the clash of two headstrong characters.
This is quite an entertaining tale and a promising start to the series. Set in AU Portland - proper choice in view of its reputation as the most haunted city of the Pacific Northwest, I think - the story was alternately told from Alun and David's POVs. As David was an allegedly human of the modern world, it's easier to take his thought and view on things. Alun's side was trickier as his past; such as his cursed and his supernatural ability or trouble with sibling, was only hinted in crumbs. So it's a bit of juggle for me at first; as much as I dislike info dump on a story, the insufficient amount of it could get me frustrated.
Alun and David were polar opposites in look and manner, that their engagements generate reader's (my) amusements. Picture "Beauty and the Beast" - minus the tower cell or dungeon - and you got part of the story down. Their yoyo-like romance might appear as typical in PNR story - somewhat instant and all that - yet I liked the character's approach on dealing with things once each realized they made mistakes and really go for what they want.
On another note, for all the power or ability the noble or Seelie Court of Faerie had, it bugged me that it took so long for them to detect the bad guy(s), and disliking the rigid bloody Fae principles, traditions yada yada. I guess that's dope for next installment, but still!!
That saying, I look forward to find out more of this universe on the next two installments, as this book hadn't reveal much in the world building or the intricacies between supernatural being. On a last note, I especially love the ending of Cutie and the Beast that brought the point beauty is in the eye of beholder.
Advanced copy of this book is kindly provided by the author/publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 22, 2019
Romantic and silly and exciting and funny -- this was lovely! I'm still not crazy about the cover -- that guy just doesn't read as David to me -- but the world building is rather wonderful. I can't wait to see what happens with both of Alun's brothers!
March 24, 2023
Enjoyable reread. ☺
[Edited to add] Ted Farnsworth is mentioned in this story as a patient of Alun's, when David buys a tabloid with a picture of a supposed Sasquatch sighting as a joke. This ties in with Single White Incubus, Vampire with Benefits, and Demon on the Down-Low.
[Edited 12/08/20] Joel Leslie, man, you're amazing.
[Edited to add] Ted Farnsworth is mentioned in this story as a patient of Alun's, when David buys a tabloid with a picture of a supposed Sasquatch sighting as a joke. This ties in with Single White Incubus, Vampire with Benefits, and Demon on the Down-Low.
[Edited 12/08/20] Joel Leslie, man, you're amazing.
August 14, 2017
Absolutely loved this book and it isn't my normal type of book.
David was very fuuny with his asides and had me laughing out loud. A modern day tale of Beauty and the Beast. Loved the world building and all the erarthbound supes.
A great start to the series and I can't wait to read more.
David was very fuuny with his asides and had me laughing out loud. A modern day tale of Beauty and the Beast. Loved the world building and all the erarthbound supes.
A great start to the series and I can't wait to read more.
June 10, 2021
With a name like Cutie and the Beast, I thought this was going to be total fluff, predictable, always fun but soon forgotten. It was not. Well, the fun part was true, and it WAS a bit fluffy, but it was so much more. A well-developed backstory full of British Mythology with imaginative word-building and interesting characters. It was feel-good without being preachy or sugar coated.
David, a temporary worker busy to study to be a RN, signed up to work at the office of Dr Alun Kendrick (a renown psychiatrist), but unbeknownst to him, Alun is a Faerie Lord, disfigured by a horrible curse, and his patients are mostly supernatural.
David was the poster boy of twink, but he turned out to be interesting, with an iron core belied by his petite stature. Alun was a bit more difficult to get to know (or like), but in the end, he did endear himself. This is one of the few MM books where the plot was so gripping, I did not care for the romance. I also did not really get the romance between the two, especially in the beginning where Alun was really horrible to David. Later in the book the chemistry improved a bit, but it was always overshadowed by the intrinsic plot. And it was not a bad thing!! I thoroughly enjoyed this book and are currently reading the next book in the series.
So yes, I recommend this book to all fans of supernatural MM stories filled with plot, suspension, and mouthy twinks with hidden depths.
David, a temporary worker busy to study to be a RN, signed up to work at the office of Dr Alun Kendrick (a renown psychiatrist), but unbeknownst to him, Alun is a Faerie Lord, disfigured by a horrible curse, and his patients are mostly supernatural.
David was the poster boy of twink, but he turned out to be interesting, with an iron core belied by his petite stature. Alun was a bit more difficult to get to know (or like), but in the end, he did endear himself. This is one of the few MM books where the plot was so gripping, I did not care for the romance. I also did not really get the romance between the two, especially in the beginning where Alun was really horrible to David. Later in the book the chemistry improved a bit, but it was always overshadowed by the intrinsic plot. And it was not a bad thing!! I thoroughly enjoyed this book and are currently reading the next book in the series.
So yes, I recommend this book to all fans of supernatural MM stories filled with plot, suspension, and mouthy twinks with hidden depths.
July 27, 2017
Review courtesy of All Things Urban Fantasy:
Sometimes it’s fun to escape. Sometimes you want to read something that will make you smile, laugh, and feel warm and fuzzy inside. CUTIE AND THE BEAST is one of the super fuzzy books! If you love it when our world clashes with the world of fairies, dragons and magic, this book is for you.
There are so many fun characters to love in CUTIE AND THE BEAST. Alun, the deformed psychiatrist “beast” , is a grumpy cursed fae warrior who helps supernatural creatures adapt to our world, even though he is only partially fitting in himself. When David arrives and adds much needed life to Alun’s grey office, he can no longer hide in the dark corners he’s made for himself. David brings cute vases, colourful coasters and his almost aggressively-bubbly personality. Alun’s clients love him and Alun starts to cave in too.
With a mix of mythological characters, both good and evil, there is a lot to take in for both David and the readers. The book does a good job of keeping up though, with David even voicing the frustration with not knowing all the rules just before the reader gets too lost.
"David glared at him, fists clenched at his sides so he wouldn’t give in to the urge to pop Alun one right in the schol. “That’s because nobody will fricking tell me the story. How many times do I have to say it? Ignorance does not equal safety. Ignorance equals ignorance, and that can get you just as dead.”"
I’m so glad someone said it! There is always a place for secrets so dark they cannot be told in paranormal romance, but they do tend to drag on. Alun has two brothers who play a large role in the story and are super interesting characters. I was pleased to hear we’ll catch up with them in THE DRUID NEXT DOOR and BAD BOY’S BARD later this year. I haven’t had this much fun with a PNR in a while.
Sometimes it’s fun to escape. Sometimes you want to read something that will make you smile, laugh, and feel warm and fuzzy inside. CUTIE AND THE BEAST is one of the super fuzzy books! If you love it when our world clashes with the world of fairies, dragons and magic, this book is for you.
There are so many fun characters to love in CUTIE AND THE BEAST. Alun, the deformed psychiatrist “beast” , is a grumpy cursed fae warrior who helps supernatural creatures adapt to our world, even though he is only partially fitting in himself. When David arrives and adds much needed life to Alun’s grey office, he can no longer hide in the dark corners he’s made for himself. David brings cute vases, colourful coasters and his almost aggressively-bubbly personality. Alun’s clients love him and Alun starts to cave in too.
With a mix of mythological characters, both good and evil, there is a lot to take in for both David and the readers. The book does a good job of keeping up though, with David even voicing the frustration with not knowing all the rules just before the reader gets too lost.
"David glared at him, fists clenched at his sides so he wouldn’t give in to the urge to pop Alun one right in the schol. “That’s because nobody will fricking tell me the story. How many times do I have to say it? Ignorance does not equal safety. Ignorance equals ignorance, and that can get you just as dead.”"
I’m so glad someone said it! There is always a place for secrets so dark they cannot be told in paranormal romance, but they do tend to drag on. Alun has two brothers who play a large role in the story and are super interesting characters. I was pleased to hear we’ll catch up with them in THE DRUID NEXT DOOR and BAD BOY’S BARD later this year. I haven’t had this much fun with a PNR in a while.
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