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The Elves of Lessa #2
Royal Magic
Gwendafyn is slowly suffocating. As the second princess of the elves of Lessa she is the acting regent of her people and is expected to behave with the serene grace and poise of a model elf. But that is not who she is. Instead, her very character is constantly criticized as being too passionate, too fiery, and overall “too much”. The former Crown Prince of the human country of Calnor, Benjimir’s disinheritance has permanently altered his future and place in court. It gets worse. He is forced to watch as the woman he has secretly loved his whole life narrows down her marriage prospects. He may ordinarily revel in his own ruthlessness, but this feels like his heart is dying. Gwendafyn is given a chance to flee the role that has ensnared her when she realizes there is one escape that not even her family traditions can marriage to a human from Calnor. With most humans and elves unable to speak the same language, her options are limited. She starts to lose hope when the human translators only see her title and treat her with fear and awe. Yet there is one other human who can speak the language of the the scorned Prince Benjimir. But Gwendafyn isn’t that desperate. At least not yet. It starts as a marriage of convenience and an opportunity to strengthen the bond between their two peoples. But what if it could become something more? ROYAL MAGIC is a clean romance set in an epic fantasy world filled with elves and magic. If you love sweet romances, humorous stories, and fantastic adventures you’ll love the Elves of Lessa series. Download a sample or buy it today!
320 pages, Paperback
First published July 27, 2020
646 people are currently reading
944 people want to read
About the author
K.M. Shea
119 books4,778 followersMy pen name is K. M. Shea, but my readers—I prefer to call them Champions—call me Kitty.
I love to write funny, clean stories with strong characters. Books like that are among my favorite to read so naturally I love writing stories like that as well. My philosophy is that life is tough, so books should be something that makes you relax and laugh!
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VISIT MY AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE
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VISIT MY WEBSITE
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I love to write funny, clean stories with strong characters. Books like that are among my favorite to read so naturally I love writing stories like that as well. My philosophy is that life is tough, so books should be something that makes you relax and laugh!
VISIT MY FACEBOOK GROUP
https://www.facebook.com/groups/27090...
VISIT MY AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE
https://www.amazon.com/K-M-Shea/e/B00...
VISIT MY WEBSITE
https://kmshea.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 256 reviews
January 1, 2025
Yes, I read this book in one day. Stayed up late and everything, but I don't regret it.
I was worried when this book came out that it wouldn't live up to the first book. I loved that one (re-read it several times) and it has been so many years. I wondered if the author would be able to recapture the same feel as the first one.
I really shouldn't have worried. This book was amazing! And I think I might even like it better than the first one, which is saying a lot.
All of the characters we loved from the first book are back, even if they aren't main characters. Tari and Arion get a lot of screen time, and it has the perfect balance between including them a lot yet not letting them take over from the main characters.
Not that Gwendafyn and Benjimir would let that happen easily. Both of them have such BIG personalities they take over the scenes they are in.
I adored Benjimir's character arc. It was so, so, so well done! There was one point where it seemed like his switch between brooding to being more loving to Fyn happened rather quickly and I wished we'd had a scene from his POV to show what he'd been thinking when he'd been gone hunting bandits to have the chance happen, but that was my only minor complaint about the book.
This is definitely a favorite, and a sure re-read in the future!
Re-Read Review: I've now re-read this book multiple times! I absolutely adore it! Benjimir and Gwendafyn are just so, so, so adorable!
I was worried when this book came out that it wouldn't live up to the first book. I loved that one (re-read it several times) and it has been so many years. I wondered if the author would be able to recapture the same feel as the first one.
I really shouldn't have worried. This book was amazing! And I think I might even like it better than the first one, which is saying a lot.
All of the characters we loved from the first book are back, even if they aren't main characters. Tari and Arion get a lot of screen time, and it has the perfect balance between including them a lot yet not letting them take over from the main characters.
Not that Gwendafyn and Benjimir would let that happen easily. Both of them have such BIG personalities they take over the scenes they are in.
I adored Benjimir's character arc. It was so, so, so well done! There was one point where it seemed like his switch between brooding to being more loving to Fyn happened rather quickly and I wished we'd had a scene from his POV to show what he'd been thinking when he'd been gone hunting bandits to have the chance happen, but that was my only minor complaint about the book.
This is definitely a favorite, and a sure re-read in the future!
Re-Read Review: I've now re-read this book multiple times! I absolutely adore it! Benjimir and Gwendafyn are just so, so, so adorable!
July 3, 2025
July 2025 Reread: Just like book one I still really enjoyed this one and it was, again, extremely addictive! I also found myself liking it more then Red Rope of Fate this time around which I thought was interesting as the first time I read it I liked it the least out of the three. 🤷🏼♀️ Oh well, I guess things have changed!
****
December 2022 Review: This book was so good! While I think I still loved Book 1 more, I still thoroughly enjoyed this romp and these characters!
I didn’t find Benjimir that bad in Book 1 despite his bad choices, so it was rather easy for me to root for his and Gwendafyn’s happiness, and she is amazing! She’s a tough girl who likes to fight and doesn’t annoy me because she also has a soft heart which is a combination I love when done well which this was! And their marriage of convenience turned into MORE *wiggles eyebrows* was a pleasure to watch unfold even if Gwendafyn constantly thought Benjimir couldn’t love her (which made sense and was relatable without going into the annoying repetitive lane). Also very much loved the cameos of Tari, Arion, Seer Ringali, and the “dimwitted trio” from the first book again. ☺️
The only thing I didn’t like was Aunt Lorius. 😡😤🔥 Can I push her off the nearest cliff, please and thank you? Because I utterly DESPISE her!!!!! 😡😡😡
Such a fun, light story (aside from Aunt Lorius) I highly recommend!
‼️Content‼️
TRIGGER WARNING: a character’s aunt is emotionally and verbally abusive
Language: hell (to describe a cat not as a swear word); bullocks
Violence: fighting with weapons, hand to hand, and magic (not detailed); injuries and blood (not detailed)
Sexual: a kiss on the shoulder; kissing (not detailed); mild suggestive hints and comments; a married couple sleep together (not sexually)
Drug/Alcohol: alcohol is served and drunk at parties
Other: a character’s aunt is emotionally and verbally abusive; magic and elves; magical powers; death
****
December 2022 Review: This book was so good! While I think I still loved Book 1 more, I still thoroughly enjoyed this romp and these characters!
I didn’t find Benjimir that bad in Book 1 despite his bad choices, so it was rather easy for me to root for his and Gwendafyn’s happiness, and she is amazing! She’s a tough girl who likes to fight and doesn’t annoy me because she also has a soft heart which is a combination I love when done well which this was! And their marriage of convenience turned into MORE *wiggles eyebrows* was a pleasure to watch unfold even if Gwendafyn constantly thought Benjimir couldn’t love her (which made sense and was relatable without going into the annoying repetitive lane). Also very much loved the cameos of Tari, Arion, Seer Ringali, and the “dimwitted trio” from the first book again. ☺️
The only thing I didn’t like was Aunt Lorius. 😡😤🔥 Can I push her off the nearest cliff, please and thank you? Because I utterly DESPISE her!!!!! 😡😡😡
Such a fun, light story (aside from Aunt Lorius) I highly recommend!
‼️Content‼️
TRIGGER WARNING: a character’s aunt is emotionally and verbally abusive
Language: hell (to describe a cat not as a swear word); bullocks
Violence: fighting with weapons, hand to hand, and magic (not detailed); injuries and blood (not detailed)
Sexual: a kiss on the shoulder; kissing (not detailed); mild suggestive hints and comments; a married couple sleep together (not sexually)
Drug/Alcohol: alcohol is served and drunk at parties
Other: a character’s aunt is emotionally and verbally abusive; magic and elves; magical powers; death
May 18, 2024
Fantastic! Fyn and Ben are delightful and their story is engrossing.
I couldn't envision how Benjimir from Red Rope of Fate was going to work as the hero of this book but now I can't picture anyone else as Gwendafyn's match. Fyn is a fun, wild character whose personality is in danger of being suffocated by the expectations of others. Ben is exactly who she needs to grow into her full self.
The joy is reading as their carefully plotted fictitious romance grows into reality. Quite a few memorable characters from Red Rope of Fate reappear here. Lessa is still a mystery but some of Calnor explored, which means more details left for future stories.
Don't worry if you haven't read Red Rope of Fate, just start this story as soon as possible then go back to the earlier book.
KM Shea pulled off a story that I didn't anticipate and that I now tremendously enjoy. I might even like it just a bit more than the first book.
Hoping for more stories in Lessa and Calnor as the Humans and Lesser Elves continue to interact.
I couldn't envision how Benjimir from Red Rope of Fate was going to work as the hero of this book but now I can't picture anyone else as Gwendafyn's match. Fyn is a fun, wild character whose personality is in danger of being suffocated by the expectations of others. Ben is exactly who she needs to grow into her full self.
The joy is reading as their carefully plotted fictitious romance grows into reality. Quite a few memorable characters from Red Rope of Fate reappear here. Lessa is still a mystery but some of Calnor explored, which means more details left for future stories.
Don't worry if you haven't read Red Rope of Fate, just start this story as soon as possible then go back to the earlier book.
KM Shea pulled off a story that I didn't anticipate and that I now tremendously enjoy. I might even like it just a bit more than the first book.
Hoping for more stories in Lessa and Calnor as the Humans and Lesser Elves continue to interact.
December 7, 2020
“There is nothing inherently bad in having power. The bigger question is how one uses that power.”
Dang took me long enough to get to this one- but I'm glad I finally did read it!
I really enjoyed this couple so much together, and I was glad that we got another human male and fae female paring. Considering that in a lot of books its usually the man that is fae.
Also, I really liked each of them as individuals. They both were kind of conniving and calculating, but at the same time had a core of cute. Considering Benjimir was a total jerk in the last book- I ended up totally buying this slow burn romance first based on pretense, but ending in a real connection.
Also, Also when Fyn
April 10, 2025
It’s official—this turned me into a melted marshmallow. 🫠 How was it so insanely ADORABLE?! If I thought book 1 was cute (and it was!), this one was somehow even more so!
Benjamir & Fyn find themselves in a marriage of convenience to gain the freedom they crave… and secretly fall in love with each other but refuse to admit it. Their cuteness and flirting was absolutely kicking-feet-in-the-air worthy. 🤭
Content: kissing only; a few mild suggestive comments between a married couple
Benjamir & Fyn find themselves in a marriage of convenience to gain the freedom they crave… and secretly fall in love with each other but refuse to admit it. Their cuteness and flirting was absolutely kicking-feet-in-the-air worthy. 🤭
Content: kissing only; a few mild suggestive comments between a married couple
January 2, 2021
I adore these two! 😍🤩😊
May 11, 2023
Did I put everything else on hold to reread this? Yep!
I forgot how much I loved this book and how much I identified with Gwendafyn. The storyline has the perfect balance of fantasy fights, romance(marriage of convenience anyone?!), and humor.
While it’s the second book in a series it’s also a stand alone though the other books are quite good as well.
I forgot how much I loved this book and how much I identified with Gwendafyn. The storyline has the perfect balance of fantasy fights, romance(marriage of convenience anyone?!), and humor.
While it’s the second book in a series it’s also a stand alone though the other books are quite good as well.
April 18, 2021
no hint of second book syndrome in this one :)
August 1, 2018
This book has 3 major problems:
1. World building. The book feels like the author didn't quite know what she wanted her world to look like, so she just put in vague things with the intention of going back and expanding on them, but then never did. The elves and humans have huge differences and marriage between them is going to have a lot of issues. What are the differences? What are the issues? How do they overcome them? We never know. We never get there. There's magic. Well, different kinds of magic. What's the difference? Why do they matter? How does it matter? Yeah, we don't get there either. Fyn (the protagonist) is going to do lots of things. So many things. What does she actually do? Lessons and parties...
2. Writing. Some of the sentences are just awkward and weird. Also, the characters will talk very formally one moment and then throw in a very modern phrase the next, it is quite jarring and doesn't make sense. There is no reason they talk formally and then informally - not like Court rules or close friends - it just doesn't make sense. We spend a lot (a lot, a lot) of time in the character's heads. Like...a lot, a lot. Then there is the repetition. So much repetition. I think we were told 5 times in the first few chapters about Ben's mistake in the previous book. (We were not, however, told why he did that...or given his point of view on that, but more on that later.) The point is, we spend so much time hearing them think about things, things they've thought about already or that someone else thought about that it can be a struggle to read.
3. The biggest, most frustrating issue for me. We spend far too much time on social issues than on actual plot. I hate preaching in books, to begin with, but when it's social issues for a society I barely know and care even less about...ugh! This book was supposed to be my very favorite trope - the convenient marriage - a story about two people, an elf and a human, who don't trust each other, don't understand each other, overcoming differences and falling in love. Ha. Ha. Ha. This was a book about social issues instead. #disappointed I didn't care about this world I barely knew. I didn't want to hear about their decisions regarding the military. I wanted to hear about Ben and Fyn. Why did Fyn decide to trust him? What really motivated Ben's actions? How did they overcome their differences? When did they start spending time together, I mean really start? When did they start to see each other as more than a means to an end? These are questions we don't get answers to. We don't get to see them together. We don't get to care about them. I wanted the love story that overcame it all and instead I got a story about a country with social issues. And I didn't care.
I honestly started skimming about halfway through only stopping for scenes with Fyn and Ben together or King Petyrr - who was honestly the best part of this whole book. I honestly wanted to love this book, I was all set to love it. But it wasn't what the blurb said, it wasn't a story about two people so very different overcoming those differences and learning to love. And I'm still not over the disappointment. If you want a book about the social issues of an imaginary country, then dive in. Otherwise, you're going to be deeply disappointed.
1. World building. The book feels like the author didn't quite know what she wanted her world to look like, so she just put in vague things with the intention of going back and expanding on them, but then never did. The elves and humans have huge differences and marriage between them is going to have a lot of issues. What are the differences? What are the issues? How do they overcome them? We never know. We never get there. There's magic. Well, different kinds of magic. What's the difference? Why do they matter? How does it matter? Yeah, we don't get there either. Fyn (the protagonist) is going to do lots of things. So many things. What does she actually do? Lessons and parties...
2. Writing. Some of the sentences are just awkward and weird. Also, the characters will talk very formally one moment and then throw in a very modern phrase the next, it is quite jarring and doesn't make sense. There is no reason they talk formally and then informally - not like Court rules or close friends - it just doesn't make sense. We spend a lot (a lot, a lot) of time in the character's heads. Like...a lot, a lot. Then there is the repetition. So much repetition. I think we were told 5 times in the first few chapters about Ben's mistake in the previous book. (We were not, however, told why he did that...or given his point of view on that, but more on that later.) The point is, we spend so much time hearing them think about things, things they've thought about already or that someone else thought about that it can be a struggle to read.
3. The biggest, most frustrating issue for me. We spend far too much time on social issues than on actual plot. I hate preaching in books, to begin with, but when it's social issues for a society I barely know and care even less about...ugh! This book was supposed to be my very favorite trope - the convenient marriage - a story about two people, an elf and a human, who don't trust each other, don't understand each other, overcoming differences and falling in love. Ha. Ha. Ha. This was a book about social issues instead. #disappointed I didn't care about this world I barely knew. I didn't want to hear about their decisions regarding the military. I wanted to hear about Ben and Fyn. Why did Fyn decide to trust him? What really motivated Ben's actions? How did they overcome their differences? When did they start spending time together, I mean really start? When did they start to see each other as more than a means to an end? These are questions we don't get answers to. We don't get to see them together. We don't get to care about them. I wanted the love story that overcame it all and instead I got a story about a country with social issues. And I didn't care.
I honestly started skimming about halfway through only stopping for scenes with Fyn and Ben together or King Petyrr - who was honestly the best part of this whole book. I honestly wanted to love this book, I was all set to love it. But it wasn't what the blurb said, it wasn't a story about two people so very different overcoming those differences and learning to love. And I'm still not over the disappointment. If you want a book about the social issues of an imaginary country, then dive in. Otherwise, you're going to be deeply disappointed.
August 21, 2020
I will admit, I got this kindle book for two reasons:
1. The guy on the cover is cute (he looks like one of the characters in my wip)
2. I tried reading from this author before and struggled through the first few chapters and was curious to see if her writing improved from the book I had (it was like a seven year writing difference I believe). It did improve!
5 stars as a love-y-dovey Christian clean romance fiction. Probably 4 stars or less if I thought it was adventure and not a romance.
Fyn I actually really liked in the very first chapter (which almost never happens to me with girl protaganists). I liked her. :D
So I know this is a series, but I didn't read the first book, apparently Ben did something bad in the first book, but I don't really know what it is besides trying to separate two characters. Apparently it gave him the label as sneaky/conniving, and everyone calls him that in this book, but he never really does anything sneaky? I wish he did, because it would have been cool. Unfortunately, I didn't like him as much as I know I could have. I like stern bois, but I guess I like them written in a certain way... ugh I don't know. :P He was okay.
There were quite a few awesome parts that made me smile. The friendships. Translation errors. Etc. I enjoyed it. And the declaration of love scene near the end. Lol.
I did think in the fight scene, it would have been cool if the character who was captured would have been hurt and it would have been harder to save that person. Just for the feelz.
Last note, there were quite a lot of "hand on her waist, breath on neck" sorta things. I mean, the characters are married but they didn't know that they both liked each other then... plus, bleh. I don't like that. I know it is in the romance genre and is expected. It could have been bad and it wasn't, so I guess it was fine? I just don't like it as much.
It was clean. No language. Some magic but not much and only in a few scenes. A few kisses but only one slightly described. Sorta lust after one character but it goes away later. Better than I expected.
1. The guy on the cover is cute (he looks like one of the characters in my wip)
2. I tried reading from this author before and struggled through the first few chapters and was curious to see if her writing improved from the book I had (it was like a seven year writing difference I believe). It did improve!
5 stars as a love-y-dovey Christian clean romance fiction. Probably 4 stars or less if I thought it was adventure and not a romance.
Fyn I actually really liked in the very first chapter (which almost never happens to me with girl protaganists). I liked her. :D
So I know this is a series, but I didn't read the first book, apparently Ben did something bad in the first book, but I don't really know what it is besides trying to separate two characters. Apparently it gave him the label as sneaky/conniving, and everyone calls him that in this book, but he never really does anything sneaky? I wish he did, because it would have been cool. Unfortunately, I didn't like him as much as I know I could have. I like stern bois, but I guess I like them written in a certain way... ugh I don't know. :P He was okay.
There were quite a few awesome parts that made me smile. The friendships. Translation errors. Etc. I enjoyed it. And the declaration of love scene near the end. Lol.
I did think in the fight scene, it would have been cool if the character who was captured would have been hurt and it would have been harder to save that person. Just for the feelz.
Last note, there were quite a lot of "hand on her waist, breath on neck" sorta things. I mean, the characters are married but they didn't know that they both liked each other then... plus, bleh. I don't like that. I know it is in the romance genre and is expected. It could have been bad and it wasn't, so I guess it was fine? I just don't like it as much.
It was clean. No language. Some magic but not much and only in a few scenes. A few kisses but only one slightly described. Sorta lust after one character but it goes away later. Better than I expected.
August 25, 2018
I did really like this it just doesn't compare to the 1st book. The whole "try to make the bad guy from the first book the good guy in this book" ploy just didn't work well for me. There was a romance here that I missed. I loved the rest of the book but the romance part just fell a little short. This is a great story. The whole idea of the Elves of Lessa and the Humans who protect them is very well done. I also love the main characters and supporting cast. It was great to see more of Arion and Tari. This is a Young Adult book. There is a bit of violence and some kisses. 12 and up.
March 16, 2023
Probably between 3.5-4 again.
Once again, an enjoyable read that satisfied my longing for a human-elf pairing where the girl is the elf. The end was satisfying.
I do have somewhat mixed feelings.
Pros:
-My questioning-tradition-self loved Fyn and the breaking of traditions throughout the book. I also loved that this wasn't a story of "people who don't like their duty learn to accept it" but rather "people learn to accept their natural gifts and find other ways to live and serve that better fit their talents and personality."
-The story of Ben coming to realize that his first "love" was a childish fascination and not really love and coming to understand that love does not hide or make you pretend to be someone you're not and appreciates all of the person you love and wants the best for them was good. I feel like I haven't seen a romantic fantasy tackle the difference between juvenile infatuation and real love very often and I really liked it.
-In the same vein, the difference between "Ben lost any chance with Yvrea because he feared her seeing all of him" and "Ben loves Fyn in part because she doesn't shy away even though she sees all of him"...yeah, that was good.
-In general, I always love romances where the characters think "no one could love me for me" because they've been told their personalities or interests etc aren't "good" or "proper" or "desirable" but they find someone who does love them. And female characters who are afraid they are too much and find someone who isn't embarrassed or intimidated by them. So *adored* that!
-Ben deciding he is going to seduce his wife no matter how long it takes was hilarious and great.
-I wouldn't be surprised if some readers find Fyn and her special High Elf magic to be kind of Mary Sue-ish, but idc, I loved it and it was fun and awesome.
-The last scene with Lorius and Ben and Fyn's dad's reactions.
-The kings and their secrets. 🤣🤣
Cons:
-I did struggle with the basis of their relationship being a pretty cold and calculating marriage of convenience where Fyn essentially gives Ben permission to stay in love with her sister, and that Fyn spends most of the book thinking her husband is in love with her sister. It would have still been a bit uncomfy if Yvrea hadn't been her sister, just a past love who he still saw all the time, but it being her sister was so awkward. That said, it did make sense narratively, and at least it has been a one-sided thing and it's not as if Ben and Yvrea has ever been actually involved.
-Why are we doing "jealous of my brother and love interest's interactions" again? 😩 At least Ben never felt violent toward Arvel.
-It does finally make some sense once, many chapter later, we learn what Ben and Arvel had been discussing when Fyn walked in, but for a while there, Ben becoming so...affectionate...and thinking Fyn is "precious" did feel kind of like he was body-snatched. Who are you and what did you do with Ben? Overall, I feel like the middle didn't have enough of Ben's POV and thought processes to really track his character growth, and then we kind of get dumped explanation later--but the explanation did at least make sense.
-Arion is majorly overbearing and I'm honestly tired of books portraying guys being controlling when their wives are pregnant as funny or cute.
-Why is Fyn's magic that shape, though? A touch cringe for me. 😅🙈
Mixed:
-Fyn is kind of dense sometimes in missing obvious cues that Ben is falling for her, but, to be fair, there are cultural differences, and she was trying really hard not to get her heartbroken and so badly didn't want to trick herself into seeing something that wasn't there (since she believes he loves her sister) that she went too far and missed his obvious signs of love. It was realistic but also often frustrating, so I don't fully count it as a pro or con.
-Some worldbuilding confusion still, although starting to get a more logical picture. Lorius says early on that Tali and Arion's kid "will likely be the only half-elf-half-human in history." I was so confused I had to redownload book one to make sure I hadn't hallucinated Lesser Elves as the result of High Elf x human pairings. I had not. 😆 And then later, this book does, in fact, mention that being the case. Toward the end especially, this book did start explaining that a lot of the illogical things, such as how "impossible" it is for anyone outside of the Translator Circle to speak both languages and why elves are so "peaceful" and seemingly monolithic in their behavior, is just a result of rigid Lesser Elf traditions that strive to distance themselves from their High Elf "cousins" (er...ancestors?? Although calling them cousins is probably part of the distancing again). So as those traditions start to break down, so do those barriers and behavorial expectations, which made sense. I do find it a little funny Lessa has port cities that are ostensibly unprotected by Calnor and where, apparently, no other human countries have ever even attempted to dock, since no humans set foot in Lessa.
-Wulf. That was...kind of weirdly handled and I can't decide how I feel about it.
If you have read my essay thus far 😆😅: Overall, though, this was fun, satisfying, and also was a great book to enjoy while I wait for the next Elven Alliance book. If you enjoy Elven Alliance, you'll likely enjoy these (and vice versa)!
Once again, an enjoyable read that satisfied my longing for a human-elf pairing where the girl is the elf. The end was satisfying.
I do have somewhat mixed feelings.
Pros:
-My questioning-tradition-self loved Fyn and the breaking of traditions throughout the book. I also loved that this wasn't a story of "people who don't like their duty learn to accept it" but rather "people learn to accept their natural gifts and find other ways to live and serve that better fit their talents and personality."
-The story of Ben coming to realize that his first "love" was a childish fascination and not really love and coming to understand that love does not hide or make you pretend to be someone you're not and appreciates all of the person you love and wants the best for them was good. I feel like I haven't seen a romantic fantasy tackle the difference between juvenile infatuation and real love very often and I really liked it.
-In the same vein, the difference between "Ben lost any chance with Yvrea because he feared her seeing all of him" and "Ben loves Fyn in part because she doesn't shy away even though she sees all of him"...yeah, that was good.
-In general, I always love romances where the characters think "no one could love me for me" because they've been told their personalities or interests etc aren't "good" or "proper" or "desirable" but they find someone who does love them. And female characters who are afraid they are too much and find someone who isn't embarrassed or intimidated by them. So *adored* that!
-Ben deciding he is going to seduce his wife no matter how long it takes was hilarious and great.
-I wouldn't be surprised if some readers find Fyn and her special High Elf magic to be kind of Mary Sue-ish, but idc, I loved it and it was fun and awesome.
-The last scene with Lorius and Ben and Fyn's dad's reactions.
-The kings and their secrets. 🤣🤣
Cons:
-I did struggle with the basis of their relationship being a pretty cold and calculating marriage of convenience where Fyn essentially gives Ben permission to stay in love with her sister, and that Fyn spends most of the book thinking her husband is in love with her sister. It would have still been a bit uncomfy if Yvrea hadn't been her sister, just a past love who he still saw all the time, but it being her sister was so awkward. That said, it did make sense narratively, and at least it has been a one-sided thing and it's not as if Ben and Yvrea has ever been actually involved.
-Why are we doing "jealous of my brother and love interest's interactions" again? 😩 At least Ben never felt violent toward Arvel.
-It does finally make some sense once, many chapter later, we learn what Ben and Arvel had been discussing when Fyn walked in, but for a while there, Ben becoming so...affectionate...and thinking Fyn is "precious" did feel kind of like he was body-snatched. Who are you and what did you do with Ben? Overall, I feel like the middle didn't have enough of Ben's POV and thought processes to really track his character growth, and then we kind of get dumped explanation later--but the explanation did at least make sense.
-Arion is majorly overbearing and I'm honestly tired of books portraying guys being controlling when their wives are pregnant as funny or cute.
-Why is Fyn's magic that shape, though? A touch cringe for me. 😅🙈
Mixed:
-Fyn is kind of dense sometimes in missing obvious cues that Ben is falling for her, but, to be fair, there are cultural differences, and she was trying really hard not to get her heartbroken and so badly didn't want to trick herself into seeing something that wasn't there (since she believes he loves her sister) that she went too far and missed his obvious signs of love. It was realistic but also often frustrating, so I don't fully count it as a pro or con.
-Some worldbuilding confusion still, although starting to get a more logical picture. Lorius says early on that Tali and Arion's kid "will likely be the only half-elf-half-human in history." I was so confused I had to redownload book one to make sure I hadn't hallucinated Lesser Elves as the result of High Elf x human pairings. I had not. 😆 And then later, this book does, in fact, mention that being the case. Toward the end especially, this book did start explaining that a lot of the illogical things, such as how "impossible" it is for anyone outside of the Translator Circle to speak both languages and why elves are so "peaceful" and seemingly monolithic in their behavior, is just a result of rigid Lesser Elf traditions that strive to distance themselves from their High Elf "cousins" (er...ancestors?? Although calling them cousins is probably part of the distancing again). So as those traditions start to break down, so do those barriers and behavorial expectations, which made sense. I do find it a little funny Lessa has port cities that are ostensibly unprotected by Calnor and where, apparently, no other human countries have ever even attempted to dock, since no humans set foot in Lessa.
-Wulf. That was...kind of weirdly handled and I can't decide how I feel about it.
If you have read my essay thus far 😆😅: Overall, though, this was fun, satisfying, and also was a great book to enjoy while I wait for the next Elven Alliance book. If you enjoy Elven Alliance, you'll likely enjoy these (and vice versa)!
October 9, 2020
Am I the only one who will read anything about fae or elves as long as it isn't erotica?
October 12, 2018
Excellent book. Benjimir and Gwen's relationship was fantastic. It's a little over the top the magic ants you see it coming but you're enjoying it so much you don't mind :) A light fun read for a rainy afternoon.
Re-read today after reading book one of the series. I didn't much like book one however it did help me to understand some elements of this one and allowed me to enjoy this one more.
Re-read today after reading book one of the series. I didn't much like book one however it did help me to understand some elements of this one and allowed me to enjoy this one more.
October 1, 2019
Goodness, this was lovely and thoroughly enjoyable. I enjoyed Royal Magic more than I thought I would. Enemies-to-lovers is a difficult trope for me—I love the idea of it, but most stories that use that trope feature couples who are too antagonistic for too long. However, when done well, this trope provides not only wonderful tension, but a thoroughly satisfying journey as we watch the couple’s relationship begin in a state where it seems unlikely they’ll fall in love, only for them to do so in a beautiful way as they come to know one another on a deeper level.
Royal Magic not only featured such a relationship, but also another of my favorite tropes—a marriage of convenience, all set against a unique fantasy setting, a world where humans and elves mingle. I really liked both Gwendafyn and Benjimir. I don’t normally like troubled heroes nursing a broken heart over a lost love, but it worked well here. Benjimir had a fantastic character arc that helped him grow from the man he used to be, and his relationship with Gwen was spectacular.
Gwen was such a fun character whose personality is in danger of being suffocated by the expectations of others. Although they married for mutual benefit, Benjamir was such a supportive husband who helped his wife grow into her true self in order for her to stretch her wings. In turn, Gwen was also such a loving and supportive influence for him. Their relationship developed into something truly beautiful—full of friendship, respect, support, and love. I adored watching their relationship develop.
This is one of the rare moments for me where I actually wish Goodreads had half stars because this was almost a full five star read for me. The only thing that made me hesitate in giving it that rating was the section of the story that focused on a battle and action-focused scenes are not to my tastes. Although I could have done without that part, I loved everything else about this delightful story that I’m setting that issue aside, for Royal Magic was truly a thoroughly enjoyable, sweet, and adorable read, one I’ll definitely reread.
Royal Magic not only featured such a relationship, but also another of my favorite tropes—a marriage of convenience, all set against a unique fantasy setting, a world where humans and elves mingle. I really liked both Gwendafyn and Benjimir. I don’t normally like troubled heroes nursing a broken heart over a lost love, but it worked well here. Benjimir had a fantastic character arc that helped him grow from the man he used to be, and his relationship with Gwen was spectacular.
Gwen was such a fun character whose personality is in danger of being suffocated by the expectations of others. Although they married for mutual benefit, Benjamir was such a supportive husband who helped his wife grow into her true self in order for her to stretch her wings. In turn, Gwen was also such a loving and supportive influence for him. Their relationship developed into something truly beautiful—full of friendship, respect, support, and love. I adored watching their relationship develop.
This is one of the rare moments for me where I actually wish Goodreads had half stars because this was almost a full five star read for me. The only thing that made me hesitate in giving it that rating was the section of the story that focused on a battle and action-focused scenes are not to my tastes. Although I could have done without that part, I loved everything else about this delightful story that I’m setting that issue aside, for Royal Magic was truly a thoroughly enjoyable, sweet, and adorable read, one I’ll definitely reread.
July 28, 2018
Once upon a time in a faraway land, an odd duckling Elf princess proposes a marriage of convenience to a disgraced human prince. To her surprise and gratitude, he agrees.
Let me say up front that my absolute FAVORITE part of this book is how Benjimir is so SUPPORTIVE of Gwendafyn. They married for mutual benefit, and both before and after they grew closer together, that baseline of mutual respect and support NEVER FALTERED.
Readers of the previous book, Red Rope of Fate, may remember how Arion so hated for Tari to be in combat, and that hasn't changed in this book. While he admittedly had solid points (she can't really fight against humans until she can prove they're not from Calnor, and , and in this book she's pregnant or a new mother), I just really can't stress enough how refreshing it was to see Benjimir back Gwendafyn up each time she wanted to stretch her wings. And Gwendafyn returned in kind. It just - ahhhhh, such amaze! ^_____^
By and large, this book was such a sweet, fluffy, adorable, cozy read. There were some darker tones now and then because such happiness must be earned to have such a powerful impact, but it was still a clean read. No swearing, no sex - some violence, but nothing above a PG-13 rating. The language differences between some of the characters were fascinating, too - very well handled for something that had the potential to really drag the writing. I find it funny how both Tari and Benjimir are so proud of themselves when they find they're able to properly insult using the non-native tongue. XD
Furthermore, I really enjoyed the return to this world and this cast of characters! Tari and Arion, Yvrea and Claire, Celrin and Petyr, Seer Ringali and his weaponized accessories, Arion's "minions" (though I think of them as Tari's minions xD), etc., etc. Everyone had their moments without detracting in the least from our current heroes.
If you enjoyed Red Rope of Fate, I GUARANTEE you will enjoy Royal Magic.
Let me say up front that my absolute FAVORITE part of this book is how Benjimir is so SUPPORTIVE of Gwendafyn. They married for mutual benefit, and both before and after they grew closer together, that baseline of mutual respect and support NEVER FALTERED.
Readers of the previous book, Red Rope of Fate, may remember how Arion so hated for Tari to be in combat, and that hasn't changed in this book. While he admittedly had solid points (she can't really fight against humans until she can prove they're not from Calnor, and , and in this book she's pregnant or a new mother), I just really can't stress enough how refreshing it was to see Benjimir back Gwendafyn up each time she wanted to stretch her wings. And Gwendafyn returned in kind. It just - ahhhhh, such amaze! ^_____^
By and large, this book was such a sweet, fluffy, adorable, cozy read. There were some darker tones now and then because such happiness must be earned to have such a powerful impact, but it was still a clean read. No swearing, no sex - some violence, but nothing above a PG-13 rating. The language differences between some of the characters were fascinating, too - very well handled for something that had the potential to really drag the writing. I find it funny how both Tari and Benjimir are so proud of themselves when they find they're able to properly insult using the non-native tongue. XD
Furthermore, I really enjoyed the return to this world and this cast of characters! Tari and Arion, Yvrea and Claire, Celrin and Petyr, Seer Ringali and his weaponized accessories, Arion's "minions" (though I think of them as Tari's minions xD), etc., etc. Everyone had their moments without detracting in the least from our current heroes.
If you enjoyed Red Rope of Fate, I GUARANTEE you will enjoy Royal Magic.
October 5, 2018
The blurb is what tempted me. I'd never come across a high fantasy romance before. (Didn't know the sub-genre existed.)I went into this not realising it was a second book in a series, and once I was in I didn't think I would need to have read the first book. At least, I shouldn't have needed to have read the previous book, but save for hints about the happenings in the book the first, I had no clue why Benjimir was 'sly', 'cunning' and 'conniving'. I couldn't understand how Gwendofyn was 'sly', 'cunning' and 'conniving' either. The writer kept talking of things I couldn't SEE!
I also disliked the manner in which Gwendofyn's Aunt was summarily and rudely and unjustly dismissed. She sounded like she could have been a complex character, and she most certainly was not evil! There was a mixture of ideas here that sounded very juvenile to me. Tradition seems to take on an ogre like aspect, and all things and people 'traditional' are treated with so much disrespect. Everyone is pro self in the guise of change.
I liked that Benjimir respected his wife a lot, giving Gwedofyn room to grow and discover herself while supporting her all the while. And I liked that she reciprocated likewise. But apart from that, this book was a disappointment considering the world of promise it held. Even the dialogues appeared stilted. I knew that the jokes were jokes and the caustic remarks were caustic only because the writer said so. Nothing came through in the dialogue!
Overall, it was just okay.
I also disliked the manner in which Gwendofyn's Aunt was summarily and rudely and unjustly dismissed. She sounded like she could have been a complex character, and she most certainly was not evil! There was a mixture of ideas here that sounded very juvenile to me. Tradition seems to take on an ogre like aspect, and all things and people 'traditional' are treated with so much disrespect. Everyone is pro self in the guise of change.
I liked that Benjimir respected his wife a lot, giving Gwedofyn room to grow and discover herself while supporting her all the while. And I liked that she reciprocated likewise. But apart from that, this book was a disappointment considering the world of promise it held. Even the dialogues appeared stilted. I knew that the jokes were jokes and the caustic remarks were caustic only because the writer said so. Nothing came through in the dialogue!
Overall, it was just okay.
May 19, 2024
6 stars
March 19, 2020
FRIENDS I FINISHED A BOOK! I’ll take my applause later, it’s okay.
Anyway. Picked this up on a whim because I saw the cover and liked it. I was not expecting it to be so charming! The writing style took some time to get used to but I think that’s my main problem with the story. It just felt like the author was detailing too much, literally spelling out things step by step instead of readers filling in the gaps. For small things, too, as if to show how she reached a certain conclusion. You know what I mean?
Anyway, that and the over use of italics to show that the characters were in their head too much, my only points of complaint.
To reiterate: this book was charming! It involves a marriage of convenience for Gwendafyn and Benjimir—she would have her freedom and he would be with someone where he doesn’t have to hide his ~snake ways~ and freely pine because she wouldn’t care. It’s a weird deal, but you know what? These things never last. Moving on.
I adored Ben!! I mean, yeah, he smirked too often so I GET IT, you’re supposed to be the lowkey cold-prince stereotype because they never really smile and whatnot. But he’s so affectionate and it’s adorable.
I liked Fyn a lot but I don’t really have much to say on her. If anything, I was really here for their budding romance and it was... sweet. Not that I was expecting mountains of angst or anything, lol, but it was sweet and developed nicely and I just really enjoyed it. Those ships that start out as theirs did, where they think won’t fall for each other, but then slowly get used to each other’s quirks and habits... it’s wholesome and so cute.
Anyway! 4 stars. What a good book to get back into reading.
Anyway. Picked this up on a whim because I saw the cover and liked it. I was not expecting it to be so charming! The writing style took some time to get used to but I think that’s my main problem with the story. It just felt like the author was detailing too much, literally spelling out things step by step instead of readers filling in the gaps. For small things, too, as if to show how she reached a certain conclusion. You know what I mean?
Anyway, that and the over use of italics to show that the characters were in their head too much, my only points of complaint.
To reiterate: this book was charming! It involves a marriage of convenience for Gwendafyn and Benjimir—she would have her freedom and he would be with someone where he doesn’t have to hide his ~snake ways~ and freely pine because she wouldn’t care. It’s a weird deal, but you know what? These things never last. Moving on.
I adored Ben!! I mean, yeah, he smirked too often so I GET IT, you’re supposed to be the lowkey cold-prince stereotype because they never really smile and whatnot. But he’s so affectionate and it’s adorable.
I liked Fyn a lot but I don’t really have much to say on her. If anything, I was really here for their budding romance and it was... sweet. Not that I was expecting mountains of angst or anything, lol, but it was sweet and developed nicely and I just really enjoyed it. Those ships that start out as theirs did, where they think won’t fall for each other, but then slowly get used to each other’s quirks and habits... it’s wholesome and so cute.
Anyway! 4 stars. What a good book to get back into reading.
August 14, 2020
I put off reading this book for about a year, mainly because I didn't really have any interest in reading Benjimir's redemption. I recently re-read the first book again and still found the world building utterly charming and I found I couldn't resist, especially as I noticed a third book had been released.
Between the returning characters and Fyn's personality I found myself warming to it very quickly and thoroughly enjoyed the book. If nothing else the author deserves 5 stars for turning my opinion around on a character I didn't like. Not the Ben was particularly malicious but as he set himself against Tari and Arion in the first book, he got the brunt of my ire.
I will say if there was anything that felt could have used some work it was bond partners in this book. I know Tari and Arion are the exception in the communication, partners are usually of the same sex, and its never been romantic previously, however it got very little acknowledgement in this book. There's no noticeable magical connection with their partners and it gives the impression that the ceremony is more a bit of showmanship to encourage ties between the two countries.
Still that's a minor thing with a bit of nitpicking.
Between the returning characters and Fyn's personality I found myself warming to it very quickly and thoroughly enjoyed the book. If nothing else the author deserves 5 stars for turning my opinion around on a character I didn't like. Not the Ben was particularly malicious but as he set himself against Tari and Arion in the first book, he got the brunt of my ire.
I will say if there was anything that felt could have used some work it was bond partners in this book. I know Tari and Arion are the exception in the communication, partners are usually of the same sex, and its never been romantic previously, however it got very little acknowledgement in this book. There's no noticeable magical connection with their partners and it gives the impression that the ceremony is more a bit of showmanship to encourage ties between the two countries.
Still that's a minor thing with a bit of nitpicking.
January 15, 2019
4.5 rounding to 5.
I enjoyed this book more than the first. I had already gotten to know many of the characters in the first book. One of the central characters here was a guy who was pretty dishonorable in the first book. The other was a strong spirited elf who did not fit into her culture. The set up for this book is that they enter into a marriage of convenience which made sense for the elf heroine but less so for the prince.
There was more action in this book. It's also character driven. We get a lot of characters coming into their own in satisfying ways. We see the characters we grew to care for from the first book without them taking over the story. All in all, it was a fun read and I also enjoy the strong female characters.
I enjoyed this book more than the first. I had already gotten to know many of the characters in the first book. One of the central characters here was a guy who was pretty dishonorable in the first book. The other was a strong spirited elf who did not fit into her culture. The set up for this book is that they enter into a marriage of convenience which made sense for the elf heroine but less so for the prince.
There was more action in this book. It's also character driven. We get a lot of characters coming into their own in satisfying ways. We see the characters we grew to care for from the first book without them taking over the story. All in all, it was a fun read and I also enjoy the strong female characters.
March 1, 2021
My rating: 5 out of 5 stars
I really liked this second book in "The Elves of Lessa," series!!! Of the two books I have read so far in the series, this one is definitely my favorite. "Royal Magic," has all of the things I like about K.M. Shea's book- witty dialogue, a varied cast of characters, and heart-pounding action.
It also has one of my all time favorite tropes- marriage of convenience. I LOVED Gwendafyn and Benjimir's romance. They had great banter and chemistry from the get-go. I'm already looking forward to their cameo appearances in the next book!
Speaking of cameo appearances, I loved that Arion and Tari from the first book in this series had big supporting roles in the story. It was fun to see how their lives had changed after the end of the last book.
I'm eager to see how the series continues in book three!
I really liked this second book in "The Elves of Lessa," series!!! Of the two books I have read so far in the series, this one is definitely my favorite. "Royal Magic," has all of the things I like about K.M. Shea's book- witty dialogue, a varied cast of characters, and heart-pounding action.
It also has one of my all time favorite tropes- marriage of convenience. I LOVED Gwendafyn and Benjimir's romance. They had great banter and chemistry from the get-go. I'm already looking forward to their cameo appearances in the next book!
Speaking of cameo appearances, I loved that Arion and Tari from the first book in this series had big supporting roles in the story. It was fun to see how their lives had changed after the end of the last book.
I'm eager to see how the series continues in book three!
November 14, 2024
Even better than the first installment. Some of the world and the characters were already established so the story felt more organic. Definitely recommend you read the first novel though to enjoy this one. The details of the worlds, bond partners, evening stars, and politics are more fleshed out in book 1.
I thought Ben and Fyn were an excellent couple.
Both went in eyes wide open and their relationship was built on them being their true selves together and finding they were perfect for each other. Some fun dialogue, some intrigue, and a reveal of how hurtful insensitive words can be (and how someone sticking up for you can matter).
Highly recommend the series. Just fun characters and world to hang out in.
I thought Ben and Fyn were an excellent couple.
Both went in eyes wide open and their relationship was built on them being their true selves together and finding they were perfect for each other. Some fun dialogue, some intrigue, and a reveal of how hurtful insensitive words can be (and how someone sticking up for you can matter).
Highly recommend the series. Just fun characters and world to hang out in.
January 2, 2021
Second in the "Elves of Lessa" series.
I love this author. Almost everything I've read from her is clean, witty, and fun. The books are all full of whimsy and this particular one did not disappoint. The Princess of Lessa is feeling mewed up as she is forced to be regent of her nation. She would be much happier with a sword, but the impetus of tradition v. the changes happening in Calnor make her dreams seemingly impossible.
She decides in one fell swoop to take matters into her own hands and darn the consequences.
Really great read. Was a re-read for me but enjoyed it just as much the 2nd time through.
I love this author. Almost everything I've read from her is clean, witty, and fun. The books are all full of whimsy and this particular one did not disappoint. The Princess of Lessa is feeling mewed up as she is forced to be regent of her nation. She would be much happier with a sword, but the impetus of tradition v. the changes happening in Calnor make her dreams seemingly impossible.
She decides in one fell swoop to take matters into her own hands and darn the consequences.
Really great read. Was a re-read for me but enjoyed it just as much the 2nd time through.
July 28, 2018
A great sequel. If you liked the first one, this one is a must. Anyone who likes the author's Timeless Fairy Tales series will like this series, too. And everyone else who likes books with magic, love, fights and humor as well as great characters should try this series or any other book from this author. So far, I haven't been disappointed.
August 8, 2021
4.25 Stars
I wasn't expecting to enjoy this book as much as I did! I loved the arranged marriage between Ben and Fyn and how their relationship grew. Ben at the beginning really made me mad but he did a complete 360 and I ended up loving his character.
I wasn't expecting to enjoy this book as much as I did! I loved the arranged marriage between Ben and Fyn and how their relationship grew. Ben at the beginning really made me mad but he did a complete 360 and I ended up loving his character.
June 17, 2020
Cute story incl. interesting cultural gap between the leads
March 11, 2019
I really wanted to read the prince side of story and it was really amazing..
July 27, 2018
I don't usually enjoy love triangles - except this one.
In fact, while the description makes you think that's all you will read about, this stand alone sequel to one of my favourite books really is an intriguing story of the courage to step into something new and be loyal to people for how they are, not how they seem to be. (A theme in many of KM Shea's stories.) The love triangle is tastefully written, not overly dramatic, and the characters actually act with nobility and no whining.
My favorite thing about this book, is that while the author clearly enjoys a heroine with certain skills, she knows how to write characters with different personality traits, making the people of this story unique from the first book (while still making cameos - yay King Petyr!) This particular author is one of my favorites because she conscientiously seeks to write new characters instead of just recycling old ones, meaning you can enjoy each new book without seeming like you've already read it 12 times. I really hope we can continue to get to know more characters in future Elves of Lessa books (wink)!
In fact, while the description makes you think that's all you will read about, this stand alone sequel to one of my favourite books really is an intriguing story of the courage to step into something new and be loyal to people for how they are, not how they seem to be. (A theme in many of KM Shea's stories.) The love triangle is tastefully written, not overly dramatic, and the characters actually act with nobility and no whining.
My favorite thing about this book, is that while the author clearly enjoys a heroine with certain skills, she knows how to write characters with different personality traits, making the people of this story unique from the first book (while still making cameos - yay King Petyr!) This particular author is one of my favorites because she conscientiously seeks to write new characters instead of just recycling old ones, meaning you can enjoy each new book without seeming like you've already read it 12 times. I really hope we can continue to get to know more characters in future Elves of Lessa books (wink)!
August 12, 2020
When I learnt that there was to be a sequel to “Red Rope of Fate”, I was ecstatic. Then I found out it was going to be about Benjimir, and I got a little hesitant. I wondered how KM Shea would redeem a character who wasn’t that nice in the first book and turn him into a likeable protagonist.
Now that I’ve completed the book, forget “likeable”; Benjimir was absolutely amazing! His personality was properly explained and everything fit together nicely. I grew to really like his character and how supportive he was of Gwendafyn. I don’t recall much about Gwendafyn from “Red Rope of Fate”, but she’s an equally amazing character who holds her own.
One thing though, I would have really liked to read more about Benjimir’s thoughts as he slowly falls for Gwendafyn. There was a point where it seemed he got affectionate with Gwendafyn a little too suddenly. But otherwise, I really really loved and enjoyed this book. It was a real treat to get to spend time with characters from the previous book as well! It was like visiting old friends.
Now I’m really looking forward to more books on the Elves of Lessa!
Reviewed 2 Aug 2018.
Now that I’ve completed the book, forget “likeable”; Benjimir was absolutely amazing! His personality was properly explained and everything fit together nicely. I grew to really like his character and how supportive he was of Gwendafyn. I don’t recall much about Gwendafyn from “Red Rope of Fate”, but she’s an equally amazing character who holds her own.
One thing though, I would have really liked to read more about Benjimir’s thoughts as he slowly falls for Gwendafyn. There was a point where it seemed he got affectionate with Gwendafyn a little too suddenly. But otherwise, I really really loved and enjoyed this book. It was a real treat to get to spend time with characters from the previous book as well! It was like visiting old friends.
Now I’m really looking forward to more books on the Elves of Lessa!
Reviewed 2 Aug 2018.
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