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He came to destroy the world.
He came to destroy us.
But he kept me alive when all else died.
It’s the end of us, the humans. Our world is ravaged, burned to the ground, destroyed by the armies of dark fae crawling all over our lands. They seek to end us, weed out the last of our survivors, and tear us to pieces.
We hide as best as we can. But it’s inevitable.
A dark fae army finds us, hiding in a little village. We’re all goners. All of my group dies, and I’m about to join them in death—until he spares me.
He came to destroy us.
But he kept me alive when all else died.
It’s the end of us, the humans. Our world is ravaged, burned to the ground, destroyed by the armies of dark fae crawling all over our lands. They seek to end us, weed out the last of our survivors, and tear us to pieces.
We hide as best as we can. But it’s inevitable.
A dark fae army finds us, hiding in a little village. We’re all goners. All of my group dies, and I’m about to join them in death—until he spares me.
106 pages, ebook
First published March 28, 2020
449 people are currently reading
2106 people want to read
About the author
Quinn Blackbird
34 books757 followersQUINN BLACKBIRD is a wanderer, a caffeine addict, a concern to her teachers & a bit of a dork.
You can find Quinn buying gym equipment she never uses or being dragged out of the writing cave by pesky friends.
Mention "margarita" and she'll come ah-runnin.
QB's goal is to live on a farm with rescue animals and write!
Now beware!! Blackbird writes about everything she loathes. This makes for books that are darker, grittier, anti-heroes, messed-up characters, and dark worlds. It's not a guarantee you'll find redemption in her pages. Because, as Gaslight Her warns, 'sometimes, the villains win.'
popular questions answered:
*there is no reading order to the dark fae universe books ~ and yes, another dark fae book is coming!*
CONTACT:
FB Quinn Blackbird
FB READER GROUP: Quinn Blackbird and Her Blackbirds
You can find Quinn buying gym equipment she never uses or being dragged out of the writing cave by pesky friends.
Mention "margarita" and she'll come ah-runnin.
QB's goal is to live on a farm with rescue animals and write!
Now beware!! Blackbird writes about everything she loathes. This makes for books that are darker, grittier, anti-heroes, messed-up characters, and dark worlds. It's not a guarantee you'll find redemption in her pages. Because, as Gaslight Her warns, 'sometimes, the villains win.'
popular questions answered:
*there is no reading order to the dark fae universe books ~ and yes, another dark fae book is coming!*
CONTACT:
FB Quinn Blackbird
FB READER GROUP: Quinn Blackbird and Her Blackbirds
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 186 reviews
July 10, 2022
Full review to come but I'm loving this series so far because of the morally ambiguous heroine and Battlestar Galactica vibes. The fae are basically the equivalent of the Cylons. I'm convinced the author was inspired by Ron Moore, especially with the heroine's tattoo and the 'I'm the harbinger of death' thing going on. That actually wasn't my favorite plot line in BSG, but I'm into it here.
May 27, 2021
3.5 stars
Book 1 and 2 were interesting in my case, I liked the beginning and how the story flowed. The writing was okay and it kept me intrigued to continue.
Vale is one of the surviving member since the plague was spread. Every day was a battle to survive. Gathering rations along with her pen and paper were her only comfort. The author doesn't spare her any nice personality because she is a selfish person, to degrade her more she is a "bitch". The Fae general, Caspan, took her captive, he seems to be interested in her tattoo. He gathers many human slaves based on their freckles. The story started to feel annoying from book 3 when the main characters turned from adults to brats.
Book 1 and 2 were interesting in my case, I liked the beginning and how the story flowed. The writing was okay and it kept me intrigued to continue.
Vale is one of the surviving member since the plague was spread. Every day was a battle to survive. Gathering rations along with her pen and paper were her only comfort. The author doesn't spare her any nice personality because she is a selfish person, to degrade her more she is a "bitch". The Fae general, Caspan, took her captive, he seems to be interested in her tattoo. He gathers many human slaves based on their freckles. The story started to feel annoying from book 3 when the main characters turned from adults to brats.
April 16, 2021
I really enjoyed this it was dark and gritty and pulled me in instantly, it’s novella length a serial type novel and this is the first part of the story the rest of this is already out though so no waiting.
I don’t read many novellas but this one appealed to me the story unfolding here is incredibly imaginative and detailed and you can taste the despair and desperation that Vale feels toward her hopeless situation she’s just trying to survive a day at a time in the only way she knows how.
This is set against a post-apocalyptic landscape where society has been decimated when the sky’s turned dark it’s an endless night, technology failed and society turned on each other in the confusion and from there fear the people left scattered and are few and then the dark fae came finishing the job originally started by humans burning through what was left with there sacking of the towns and city’s and there total slaughter of the remaining humans. Lighting a blazing path through what remains of the tatters of humanity.
Vale is travelling with some fellow surviving humans mostly for safety there’s no camaraderie trust or loyalty amongst them everyone’s just out for themselves.
They were once more of them but numbers are dropping fast with the realities they face day to day.
They just wander from place to place scavenging and hiding from their fellow humans and also the dark fae.
It’s on one such trip to a town in France that they come wielding their weapons and fire and raising the town to the ground.
This was fast-paced and told completely from Vale’s POV the narrative has dark undertones and there’s nothing warm and fuzzy about these fae invaders.
This ends on a slight cliffhanger which is fine as I can read the next instalment right away I’m incredibly intrigued with where this might go next.
This was well written and very imaginative and I’m definitely going to be reading further.
This has all my favourite genres rolled into one I’m a sucker for anything post-apocalyptic add in the fae element and I’m sold.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
November 15, 2020
"The people at the end of the world—even us captives—aren’t the ones who deserve to live. The worst of us are the ones who survive."
Goddamn, had to give it 4 stars because I devoured the story.
It was difficult to read at times, and yes its dark, not just in the graphic violence--but more so for the fact that at times almost everyone showed a complete apathy to extreme cruelty, violence, and murder going on. Its a similar reaction that we read in dystopian novels--the almost slow death of a persons humanity in the face of evil acts.
"Guess we’re all just a bit fucked up in this new world."
And both of our leads are no exception to cruelty. They individually show fleeting moments of compassion only to turn around show their fangs- so to speak (In the Captains case more literally)
I will def read on bc
November 12, 2020
This was just amazing ....
it had everything I love in a story, apocalyptic setting, hard bloody world where you have to be ruthless to survive. Heroine was a bit of a mix between good and evil, with her own psychic problems. The elves are truly evil and ruthless. Hero is not a hero but a real anti-hero. Story isn't heavy on eroticism or love, so don't expect a fulffy love story or a lot of hanky panky here...
So enthusiasts dig in. I'm now diving into parts 4 and 5!
I shoot her an uneasy side-look. “What?”
“Him.” She jerks her head to the leader. “Caspan,” she says. “That’s his name. He’s the cruellest of them all.”
“He’s terrifying,” I whisper. “I thought he was going to kill me.”
Caspan wastes no time before he draws his dagger and stalks over to the post. The coal-black blade cuts through the air suddenly and takes the older man’s throat with it. There’s not enough time to look away or shield my eyes. One moment, he’s marching over to the runners, the next, he’s tearing out the man’s throat with a single swipe of his small dagger.
I bury my face in my hands.
Cheers rise up from the crowd and flood the glade. I can almost feel the slap of the man’s throat hit the packed dirt, spatter over the blades of grass. But I do feel the boy’s scream. It claws through the glade like a monster’s grip, and I feel his agony in my bones. "
The Dark Fae came to this world, and they brought plague, war and total darkness.
Not even the moon or stars shine anymore. The world is drenched in the black, where the monsters lurk.
Vale is a survivor in the ruins of the cold, black world.
The dark fae march on them and, as she watches her entire group be slaughtered, Vale makes peace with her death--
Until he spares her. Caspan, the leader of the army, with his leather armour and coal-black diadem and inky eyes.
As Vale works through her new tense life as a slave, Caspan shows a dangerous interest in her. And that's always a deadly thing.
November 4, 2021
2.5 stars
This is a free ebook on Amazon, and I can see why that is. This might as well be a sample. It's extremely short (I read it in its entirety in under an hour and I'm not a particularly fast reader) and it really doesn't do much but introduce the world and leave off on a cliffhanger. So even though this is a very short book, I'm still rating it based on the fact that this is sold as its own thing.
As an aside, other books in this series are the same length, but each are $2.99 (unless you have Kindle Unlimited.) I don't usually talk about price in my reviews but I really can't see paying $2.99 each for books 2-5 when each book is on average an hour of content. Either way that's a buyer's decision but it's just a little annoying when each book is super short and its broken up needlessly- to me it comes off as milking for $$$. For this caliber of story, $12 is a bit steep imo. So unless you have Kindle Unlimited it may a bit annoying how you have to buy each part separately.
But I digress. On to the review.
Dark Fae features a girl named Vale (she's only mentioned about 2 times in this book so I almost forgot her name lol) who is facing the end of the world as she knows it with a small band of survivors. The dark fae have gone to war with humans and have all but exterminated them, with survivors having to scavenge for food and hide from the fae à la zombie apocalypse. The fae have superior (tech? magic?) and have basically blotted out the sun, drenching the Earth in darkness. We have no idea how or why they are doing this, just that it is what it is. But when Vale is trapped by the fae, she expects to die, and is shocked when she is spared by a powerful fae leader based on something he sees on her skin.
That's basically what happens in this book. I don't feel like I'm spoiling it because this reads like it's the first 10% of a normal novel and these facts are mentioned in the blurb.
Anyway, as to things I like about this book: I do enjoy this darker interpretation and more dystopian/apocalyptic vibe. Usually fae books are set in a more medieval fantasy setting but this being set in the modern day on Earth is a fun, darker twist (though it's not like you would know based off the cover lol.) I also like how the fae seem pretty evil. Granted, I only got about 15 minutes of them in this book, but so far there are no signs of a "misunderstood anti-hero" or something like that. The fae in this book are pretty alien and ruthless.
As for things I didn't enjoy: There was really no character development whatsoever. We only learn one significant aspect of Vale's character and that's it. This book was primarily showing the setting and the initial conflict (Vale being taken by the fae) but there's nothing that's making me grab onto anything that's happening in an emotional way. This book is basically just apocalyptic survival vibes and that's it. No character development or really even a good character introduction. I also found the writing left much to be desired- it was pretty basic and at some points jarring. For example, Blackbird takes readers out of the story by having the heroine (while she's in pain and scared for her life) compare the fae leader's looks to the actor Matt Bomer. Like... LMAO thanks, I hate it.
Anyway, there are interesting ideas here but unfortunately the execution and the length of the book really worked against itself. I would have definitely stuck with this book if it was a full story in one but since it's not I don't think I will be continuing with the series.
Content Warning:
This is a free ebook on Amazon, and I can see why that is. This might as well be a sample. It's extremely short (I read it in its entirety in under an hour and I'm not a particularly fast reader) and it really doesn't do much but introduce the world and leave off on a cliffhanger. So even though this is a very short book, I'm still rating it based on the fact that this is sold as its own thing.
As an aside, other books in this series are the same length, but each are $2.99 (unless you have Kindle Unlimited.) I don't usually talk about price in my reviews but I really can't see paying $2.99 each for books 2-5 when each book is on average an hour of content. Either way that's a buyer's decision but it's just a little annoying when each book is super short and its broken up needlessly- to me it comes off as milking for $$$. For this caliber of story, $12 is a bit steep imo. So unless you have Kindle Unlimited it may a bit annoying how you have to buy each part separately.
But I digress. On to the review.
Dark Fae features a girl named Vale (she's only mentioned about 2 times in this book so I almost forgot her name lol) who is facing the end of the world as she knows it with a small band of survivors. The dark fae have gone to war with humans and have all but exterminated them, with survivors having to scavenge for food and hide from the fae à la zombie apocalypse. The fae have superior (tech? magic?) and have basically blotted out the sun, drenching the Earth in darkness. We have no idea how or why they are doing this, just that it is what it is. But when Vale is trapped by the fae, she expects to die, and is shocked when she is spared by a powerful fae leader based on something he sees on her skin.
That's basically what happens in this book. I don't feel like I'm spoiling it because this reads like it's the first 10% of a normal novel and these facts are mentioned in the blurb.
Anyway, as to things I like about this book: I do enjoy this darker interpretation and more dystopian/apocalyptic vibe. Usually fae books are set in a more medieval fantasy setting but this being set in the modern day on Earth is a fun, darker twist (though it's not like you would know based off the cover lol.) I also like how the fae seem pretty evil. Granted, I only got about 15 minutes of them in this book, but so far there are no signs of a "misunderstood anti-hero" or something like that. The fae in this book are pretty alien and ruthless.
As for things I didn't enjoy: There was really no character development whatsoever. We only learn one significant aspect of Vale's character and that's it. This book was primarily showing the setting and the initial conflict (Vale being taken by the fae) but there's nothing that's making me grab onto anything that's happening in an emotional way. This book is basically just apocalyptic survival vibes and that's it. No character development or really even a good character introduction. I also found the writing left much to be desired- it was pretty basic and at some points jarring. For example, Blackbird takes readers out of the story by having the heroine (while she's in pain and scared for her life) compare the fae leader's looks to the actor Matt Bomer. Like... LMAO thanks, I hate it.
Anyway, there are interesting ideas here but unfortunately the execution and the length of the book really worked against itself. I would have definitely stuck with this book if it was a full story in one but since it's not I don't think I will be continuing with the series.
Content Warning:
April 14, 2021
This is a Dark Fae series that is gritty sadistic and cruel it certainly doesn’t pull its punches.
It features dark fae general Caspan and human surviver Vale after the total collapse and current ongoing destruction of the world.
It’s not fluffy or sweet or even romantic it’s the exact opposite of all this a dark destructive journey through a post apocalyptic landscape where the worlds gone to complete shit be aware it’s dark.
I’ve posted individual reviews on each novella this is the combined box set of the first three.
It features dark fae general Caspan and human surviver Vale after the total collapse and current ongoing destruction of the world.
It’s not fluffy or sweet or even romantic it’s the exact opposite of all this a dark destructive journey through a post apocalyptic landscape where the worlds gone to complete shit be aware it’s dark.
I’ve posted individual reviews on each novella this is the combined box set of the first three.
April 1, 2020
Compelling world building, complex characters, and phenomenal writing! Can't wait for the next book! This was very short though. Not sure if they will all be this short, but I hope not. I would love to read more about this dark dystopian Fae series!
October 30, 2023
Quinn Blackbird is so much better than she used to be.
I really recommend her other works Gaslight Her (which is very dark!) & We Are All Villains Here.
But this series feels very unpolished. Oftentimes, I can see where she was going, but she just misses by several feet in impact.
The good news is, there are other works you can read now with great writing and similar scenarios!
Land of the Beautiful Dead (dystopic w zombies; woman her body to the enemy lord for her people's survival)
Lord of Population (dystopic w angel-like beings; woman helps an enemy and they trek together)
Claimed by the Horde King (technically a different planet but without sci-fi and with Dothraki-like hordes; woman is discovered "stealing" & is punished and taken captive by an enemy horde king)
The King (woman is taken captive by a "Beast" lord as a slave. This is the most brutal iteration in this genre, so check CWs first, but it is very well done)
I really recommend her other works Gaslight Her (which is very dark!) & We Are All Villains Here.
But this series feels very unpolished. Oftentimes, I can see where she was going, but she just misses by several feet in impact.
The good news is, there are other works you can read now with great writing and similar scenarios!
Land of the Beautiful Dead (dystopic w zombies; woman her body to the enemy lord for her people's survival)
Lord of Population (dystopic w angel-like beings; woman helps an enemy and they trek together)
Claimed by the Horde King (technically a different planet but without sci-fi and with Dothraki-like hordes; woman is discovered "stealing" & is punished and taken captive by an enemy horde king)
The King (woman is taken captive by a "Beast" lord as a slave. This is the most brutal iteration in this genre, so check CWs first, but it is very well done)
April 15, 2020
* I received an ecopy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
Dark fae is the first book in the new dark fantasy series by Quinn Blackbeard. I'm a sucker for fae novels especially the dark and twisted ones. The Dark Fae is a serialized novel set in a dystopian world where humans are hunted and killed by the ruthless dark Fae. Vale is a survivor who's been struggling to survive with her small group of humans hiding in a small village, but In this dark times no can be trusted not even the humans. When her group finally gets caught and killed by the fae army, Vale fears that she's going to be the next, but surprising the fae spares her life and captures her.
I loved the concept of the fae Apocalypse, and also the dystopian setting. The Dark Fae in this book are more like the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. They're so dark, violent, merciless, and brutal. From the start, I was hooked to the plot and I finished it one sitting. It's a very short read. It was more like a short teaser that will leave you wanting for more. The author's writing was engaging and I really liked the main character. The book finally ends with a cliffhanger and I can't wait to know what happens next.
Dark fae is the first book in the new dark fantasy series by Quinn Blackbeard. I'm a sucker for fae novels especially the dark and twisted ones. The Dark Fae is a serialized novel set in a dystopian world where humans are hunted and killed by the ruthless dark Fae. Vale is a survivor who's been struggling to survive with her small group of humans hiding in a small village, but In this dark times no can be trusted not even the humans. When her group finally gets caught and killed by the fae army, Vale fears that she's going to be the next, but surprising the fae spares her life and captures her.
I loved the concept of the fae Apocalypse, and also the dystopian setting. The Dark Fae in this book are more like the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. They're so dark, violent, merciless, and brutal. From the start, I was hooked to the plot and I finished it one sitting. It's a very short read. It was more like a short teaser that will leave you wanting for more. The author's writing was engaging and I really liked the main character. The book finally ends with a cliffhanger and I can't wait to know what happens next.
September 16, 2021
I was literally thrown into an unknown world without even knowing I was going to be thrown in an unknown world…which made things that much better! The fae ruling and destroying the human world? What? When? How? This book is ugly. Its gruesome. Its downright terrifying…and I love it.
January 6, 2021
A New Threat Arrives On Dystopian Earth
The Dark Fae Box Set books 1 - 3
I'm not a huge fan of stories that center around the Fae, just not my cup of tea. But I love a good dystopian theme. I came across this box set and was ready to move on to something else the moment I spotted "Fae" in the title, but with its strong rating, decided to take a look. I'm glad I did.
The author does an excellent job of crafting a world in its death throes as it is plunged into a mysterious darkness. The human population has been decimated by war, a complete loss of technology, and plague. Those who survive face starvation, or a violent death at the hands of their own as food and other resources become more and more scarce.
It is in this menacing, bleak existance that Vale finds herself. She's survived it all, lost everyone that mattered, only to be hunted through the darkness by...faeries. An army of them. But these creatures are nothing like the story books. These beings are here to wipe away all traces of the humanity they consider a scourge.
Vale has managed to stay in front of the horde for a year, hiding and scavaging for scraps, but the constant running, fear, and darkness have taken a toll.
When the inevitable happens, she awaits an ugly death at the hands of the blood thirsty Fae. But fate has a different plan for Vale when she is inexplicably spared by the most frightening being she has ever seen, and she's seen A LOT. The General of the dark army has taken an interest in Vale, a vicious killing machine with nothing but cruelty in the depths of his black stare. And he only has eyes for her.
At first this seems like a blend of all the standard stuff in a story, there are so, so many fae books out there, it's hard to get too excited about another. But the author has taken apart this overused genre, spliced it to a couple of other genre that really don't go as a rule, and pieced it back together as something both familiar and a different beast entirely. I could not put these books down, the story is that good.
I wasn't overwhelmed with details about how it all came about, yet all of my questions were answered. I never felt like the author was trying to sell her idea. Her world is seemless enough that it blends into the tapestry she weaves and the story moves smoothly.
I was drawn in and lost from the first page. That is what I want in my reading - to forget myself completely. Yeah, you should read these. Really good. The next leg of the journey should be even better. Well, maybe gory and horrible, but really good. I'll let you know after I've read them...so tomorrow.
The Dark Fae Box Set books 1 - 3
I'm not a huge fan of stories that center around the Fae, just not my cup of tea. But I love a good dystopian theme. I came across this box set and was ready to move on to something else the moment I spotted "Fae" in the title, but with its strong rating, decided to take a look. I'm glad I did.
The author does an excellent job of crafting a world in its death throes as it is plunged into a mysterious darkness. The human population has been decimated by war, a complete loss of technology, and plague. Those who survive face starvation, or a violent death at the hands of their own as food and other resources become more and more scarce.
It is in this menacing, bleak existance that Vale finds herself. She's survived it all, lost everyone that mattered, only to be hunted through the darkness by...faeries. An army of them. But these creatures are nothing like the story books. These beings are here to wipe away all traces of the humanity they consider a scourge.
Vale has managed to stay in front of the horde for a year, hiding and scavaging for scraps, but the constant running, fear, and darkness have taken a toll.
When the inevitable happens, she awaits an ugly death at the hands of the blood thirsty Fae. But fate has a different plan for Vale when she is inexplicably spared by the most frightening being she has ever seen, and she's seen A LOT. The General of the dark army has taken an interest in Vale, a vicious killing machine with nothing but cruelty in the depths of his black stare. And he only has eyes for her.
At first this seems like a blend of all the standard stuff in a story, there are so, so many fae books out there, it's hard to get too excited about another. But the author has taken apart this overused genre, spliced it to a couple of other genre that really don't go as a rule, and pieced it back together as something both familiar and a different beast entirely. I could not put these books down, the story is that good.
I wasn't overwhelmed with details about how it all came about, yet all of my questions were answered. I never felt like the author was trying to sell her idea. Her world is seemless enough that it blends into the tapestry she weaves and the story moves smoothly.
I was drawn in and lost from the first page. That is what I want in my reading - to forget myself completely. Yeah, you should read these. Really good. The next leg of the journey should be even better. Well, maybe gory and horrible, but really good. I'll let you know after I've read them...so tomorrow.
February 8, 2021
Well dam I’m hooked
I want to know why the fae leader was interested in her freckles and why they kept her.
I don’t like the fact that it was such a short book (there’s 5 all together) like surely just make a few less bigger books?
And I don’t like the fact we don’t actually find out much about her or the fae or anyone’s motives. That said however it is a short book so it makes sense it wasn’t packed with little bits of important info- I assume it will come in the next book
I want to know why the fae leader was interested in her freckles and why they kept her.
I don’t like the fact that it was such a short book (there’s 5 all together) like surely just make a few less bigger books?
And I don’t like the fact we don’t actually find out much about her or the fae or anyone’s motives. That said however it is a short book so it makes sense it wasn’t packed with little bits of important info- I assume it will come in the next book
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 27, 2020
It's the fae-pocalypse in this first part of a serialised drama, and I was hooked. I devoured it in all it's grimness in one sitting. It's dark fantasy meets post-apocalyptic survival, so if you're bored of people running from zombies and don't like your paranormal menfolk to be the sparkly/magical/tragically romantic types, this could be just the thing.
It's about Vale, a survivor in a world cursed to darkness by the coming of the dark fae. They rampage across the globe, their wild hunt set to destroy any humans left after the chaos and plagues they brought with them. Vale's rag-tag bunch are holed up in a little French village, looting what they can. But even in the middle of nowhere, the fae find them.
It's a short introductory episode, but dang does it pack a punch. I adored Vale's narration, realistic selfishness and all. That each man for himself attitude, even if she knows she should be better (though what use is the moral high ground if you're dead?)
She also deals with mental health and self-harm issues in a surprisingly down to earth way; nothing graphic, but put bluntly and very emotive. The setting up of the world and the interplay between the oddball survivors simmered with tension.
It seems to be set in the world of The Prince's Prisoner (pre-apocalypse), Pestilence (possibly during the apocalypse), and Dark Skies 1-3 (post-apocalypse from the side of the fae) - not that you need any knowledge of the world to begin with as it's a completely new story.
It ends right when things are getting juicy; it pays to remember this is a serial, not a full story and keep your expectations in check if you're not into that sort of thing. If you can stand the wait, then this looks to be a tense and creepy fae tale of survival.
-I received a free ARC copy of this e-book from the author. This does not influence my ability to enjoy or my decision to review as I have-
It's about Vale, a survivor in a world cursed to darkness by the coming of the dark fae. They rampage across the globe, their wild hunt set to destroy any humans left after the chaos and plagues they brought with them. Vale's rag-tag bunch are holed up in a little French village, looting what they can. But even in the middle of nowhere, the fae find them.
It's a short introductory episode, but dang does it pack a punch. I adored Vale's narration, realistic selfishness and all. That each man for himself attitude, even if she knows she should be better (though what use is the moral high ground if you're dead?)
She also deals with mental health and self-harm issues in a surprisingly down to earth way; nothing graphic, but put bluntly and very emotive. The setting up of the world and the interplay between the oddball survivors simmered with tension.
It seems to be set in the world of The Prince's Prisoner (pre-apocalypse), Pestilence (possibly during the apocalypse), and Dark Skies 1-3 (post-apocalypse from the side of the fae) - not that you need any knowledge of the world to begin with as it's a completely new story.
It ends right when things are getting juicy; it pays to remember this is a serial, not a full story and keep your expectations in check if you're not into that sort of thing. If you can stand the wait, then this looks to be a tense and creepy fae tale of survival.
-I received a free ARC copy of this e-book from the author. This does not influence my ability to enjoy or my decision to review as I have-
February 21, 2021
I fucking loved it. I fucking loved it? Wow.
The Dark Fae came to this world, and they brought plague, war and total darkness.
Not even the moon or stars shine anymore. The world is drenched in the black, where the monsters lurk.
Vale is a survivor in the ruins of the cold, black world.
She hides from the dark fae armies who spread across the world, slaughtering the humans they find, burning down the towns and cities and villages they invade. It's like the dark fae need to wipe all traces of the humans from this world.
This is dark as hell. I love that the author did not shy away from that. At no point did it start to lighten. And I think that because of this people are either going to love it like me (because I'm fucked in the head), or they're going to absolutely hate it. It's just so different. This is the book I have been looking to read for a long time.
It is incredibly detailed and focused on character development and setting. Delectably so. It could feel like it dragged on at times. But, I would argue that every moment was carefully crafted to tell the story and understand the characters.
After Vale's group of survivors are mostly slain or enslaved by a dark fae army, their General Caspan takes an unhealthy interest in her. Most novels like this one tend to build their male/female leads as likable. I find it delicious that Blackbird doesn't even try to make them so. She makes them real, and honest to the world she has created. They are flawed and horrible. I cannot get enough of it. Caspan is a villain, through and through. There is no moment where Caspan is defanged and we, the audience gain understanding and forgiveness for his transgressions. No. And I hope it never comes.
I'm not even going to take a break from this series to read something else, I'm moving on to the next book immediately. I tend to like a palette cleanser when I'm reading a series. The very idea of doing so right now is unacceptable. I must have more, immediately.
The Dark Fae came to this world, and they brought plague, war and total darkness.
Not even the moon or stars shine anymore. The world is drenched in the black, where the monsters lurk.
Vale is a survivor in the ruins of the cold, black world.
She hides from the dark fae armies who spread across the world, slaughtering the humans they find, burning down the towns and cities and villages they invade. It's like the dark fae need to wipe all traces of the humans from this world.
This is dark as hell. I love that the author did not shy away from that. At no point did it start to lighten. And I think that because of this people are either going to love it like me (because I'm fucked in the head), or they're going to absolutely hate it. It's just so different. This is the book I have been looking to read for a long time.
It is incredibly detailed and focused on character development and setting. Delectably so. It could feel like it dragged on at times. But, I would argue that every moment was carefully crafted to tell the story and understand the characters.
After Vale's group of survivors are mostly slain or enslaved by a dark fae army, their General Caspan takes an unhealthy interest in her. Most novels like this one tend to build their male/female leads as likable. I find it delicious that Blackbird doesn't even try to make them so. She makes them real, and honest to the world she has created. They are flawed and horrible. I cannot get enough of it. Caspan is a villain, through and through. There is no moment where Caspan is defanged and we, the audience gain understanding and forgiveness for his transgressions. No. And I hope it never comes.
I'm not even going to take a break from this series to read something else, I'm moving on to the next book immediately. I tend to like a palette cleanser when I'm reading a series. The very idea of doing so right now is unacceptable. I must have more, immediately.
March 18, 2020
What a beautiful take on the fae with a dark and fearful twist. When the book begins, it feels like a war zone, a dystopia fantasy. We're thrust into a world of despair and sorrow. As the book goes on you discover the world has irrevocably changed and the survivors are struggling. It has that realistic feel as they do what they can and Quinn touches on some subject matter regarding mental health and self harm. I loved that we got to feel the pain and you could definitely feel the fear that this world has created. The dark fae are exactly that. Dark and definitely not creatures you'd want to get close to. Quinn gives them a brutality and edge that other fae creatures lack. As a novella, we get a teaser in what's happening and it'll have you wanting book two to discover many more answers to all the questions you'll have throughout reading this. Any fae lovers would definitely love this book, with its unique take on fae and the world on which they now live with the humans. Great first book, full of fear, suspense and surprisingly hope for what will come to our characters and world. Great job!
July 2, 2021
3.5 stars
Short, but very intriguing.
Can't say I liked the main character that much, she felt too detached from everything happening around her, but everything else? Jackpot.
Post-apocalyptic world. A world with no light. Suspense. Mystery. Violence. Evil fae. Potentially (hopefully) villain romance. Fighting for survival.
This novella has it all.
Really hope the next books will be just as good. This series has the ingredients of a potential new favorite.
Short, but very intriguing.
Can't say I liked the main character that much, she felt too detached from everything happening around her, but everything else? Jackpot.
Post-apocalyptic world. A world with no light. Suspense. Mystery. Violence. Evil fae. Potentially (hopefully) villain romance. Fighting for survival.
This novella has it all.
Really hope the next books will be just as good. This series has the ingredients of a potential new favorite.
June 1, 2021
No suspense, no interaction, no anything. More of a dull post-apocalyptic novel than anything else.
Want to read
May 30, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (5/30/2020)! 🎁
September 7, 2022
2.5 stars. It was a very, very quick read that leaves you on a cliffhanger. I felt it was rather well-written despite how short of a book it was.
May 22, 2021
So, these books are like novellas about the same characters. It's like they've been cut down to be published in a newspaper like they used to do in the 19th century.
I was extremely glad that I got the bundle of "books" 1-3 and then 4-5.
I don't recommend this at all. Especially the faint of heart.
The fae in this series are not at all like SJM's or other romance author's fae. These are dark fae, who literally came to destroy earth and blah blah blah. They also like to beat humans. The male character, a fae general, was not an exception. He came across his human "mate" and beat her several times throughout this series, so he could prove to the other dickheads that he wasn't "catching feelings". I mean grow the fuck up and stop beating others.
At the end, to no one's surprise they end up together and he tells her that he knew she was his fated mate and whatever, because of a tattoo, but didn't want to face it so he acted out.
There was smut, but I was so disgusted that I didn't care honestly.
I wish there was fae smut like SJM's books. I need that woman to turn fae and get some magical juju to write more books than she does. I NEED MORE.
This was interesting, in terms of "plot". That and seeing what happened to the main character was literally what kept me going.
0.5 stars. not even 1, though I am required to put 1 there. Goodreads upgrade this rating system please, asap.
I will also literally copy and paste this review on the next bundle.
I was extremely glad that I got the bundle of "books" 1-3 and then 4-5.
I don't recommend this at all. Especially the faint of heart.
The fae in this series are not at all like SJM's or other romance author's fae. These are dark fae, who literally came to destroy earth and blah blah blah. They also like to beat humans. The male character, a fae general, was not an exception. He came across his human "mate" and beat her several times throughout this series, so he could prove to the other dickheads that he wasn't "catching feelings". I mean grow the fuck up and stop beating others.
At the end, to no one's surprise they end up together and he tells her that he knew she was his fated mate and whatever, because of a tattoo, but didn't want to face it so he acted out.
There was smut, but I was so disgusted that I didn't care honestly.
I wish there was fae smut like SJM's books. I need that woman to turn fae and get some magical juju to write more books than she does. I NEED MORE.
This was interesting, in terms of "plot". That and seeing what happened to the main character was literally what kept me going.
0.5 stars. not even 1, though I am required to put 1 there. Goodreads upgrade this rating system please, asap.
I will also literally copy and paste this review on the next bundle.
January 5, 2022
I still feel really undecided about The Dark Fae, even though there's three books, the first volume is so short!
Books 1-3 are very much a setup. There's some world and character building but nothing truly spectacular. I don't really like or loath any of the characters but they do interest me to a degree.
Vale is... I honestly feel like she's being set up to be a sorta Harley Quinn character but maybe not? I'm hoping not, not because there's anything wrong with it but that particular arc doesn't interest me.
Caspan is beginning to intrigue me now but I'm actually reading books 4-5, I didn't care much about him until then.
My general consensus is that this would have read better as one solid book instead of being split up like it is, but that's just personal preference.
I think it's a solid three star read with the potential to get really good!
Watch out for triggers. This author doesn't pull punches, (something I love) and give this a try if the premise intrigues you. 🙂
Books 1-3 are very much a setup. There's some world and character building but nothing truly spectacular. I don't really like or loath any of the characters but they do interest me to a degree.
Vale is... I honestly feel like she's being set up to be a sorta Harley Quinn character but maybe not? I'm hoping not, not because there's anything wrong with it but that particular arc doesn't interest me.
Caspan is beginning to intrigue me now but I'm actually reading books 4-5, I didn't care much about him until then.
My general consensus is that this would have read better as one solid book instead of being split up like it is, but that's just personal preference.
I think it's a solid three star read with the potential to get really good!
Watch out for triggers. This author doesn't pull punches, (something I love) and give this a try if the premise intrigues you. 🙂
May 3, 2020
Its been a long time since I've read some fantasy romance and this is the first time reading this Author. I have to say i was very surprised, it was really, really well written and the story/plot was amazing. I loved Vale and how she interacts with the dark fae, especially General Caspen!! You can sense the sexual chemistry between them, especially with the pull & tug that they go through. I genuinely have no idea where the author is planning to take this story, but i cant wait to find out. My only criticism is that this is supposed to be a collection of three books....however really in my opinion this should be just book 1. I'm not a fan of breaking a story apart in to much smaller books as to me this seems frustrating and a rip off for us as readers. That said i would recommend this book and the author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 24, 2021
3.5
This was just ok- I mean I finished it, so cannot really complain, but the similarities to Pestilence were kinda annoying.
I cannot really nail down what I do not like about this book. It did seem like it was gratuitous just for the shock value. I’m a fan of dark reads when done right- and this just did not work for me.
This was just ok- I mean I finished it, so cannot really complain, but the similarities to Pestilence were kinda annoying.
I cannot really nail down what I do not like about this book. It did seem like it was gratuitous just for the shock value. I’m a fan of dark reads when done right- and this just did not work for me.
March 22, 2022
After 60% of whole book,we finally got to see some progress of MC's emotional connection.
I hope the next book would better than this one.
I hope the next book would better than this one.
September 14, 2020
Before I begin my review for Dark Fae (The Dark Fae #1) by Quinn Blackbird, I would personally like to thank the author, the publishers and Booksprouts for the opportunity to read this ARC and I have reviewed it honestly.
An intense combination of apocalyptic dystopia and new adult fantasy, Dark Fae is an epic introduction to The Dark Fae novella series. A world devoured by darkness with no electricity, no fire, no sun, humanity is on the brink of extinction as the fight for survival pits one against all. And that’s without mentioning the army of dark fae scouring the Earth for survivors.
Dark Fae features, but is not limited to, the following themes:
○ Fae
○ Fae army
○ Apocalypse
○ Survival
○ Endless night
○ Self harm
My overall rating for Dark Fae is…
5 Stars!
I feel like combining an apocalypse with fae is a dangerous combination but oh it works so deliciously well! Dark Fae built such an epic and suspenseful story you couldn’t possibly pass up the opportunity to read this series. Not to mention, the series is available on KU! The Dark Fae series has been described to contain trigger warnings, villain to hero trope and self harm situations and is therefore not for everyone. If you don’t mind trigger content I can’t recommend the entire works of this author enough.
An intense combination of apocalyptic dystopia and new adult fantasy, Dark Fae is an epic introduction to The Dark Fae novella series. A world devoured by darkness with no electricity, no fire, no sun, humanity is on the brink of extinction as the fight for survival pits one against all. And that’s without mentioning the army of dark fae scouring the Earth for survivors.
Dark Fae features, but is not limited to, the following themes:
○ Fae
○ Fae army
○ Apocalypse
○ Survival
○ Endless night
○ Self harm
My overall rating for Dark Fae is…
5 Stars!
I feel like combining an apocalypse with fae is a dangerous combination but oh it works so deliciously well! Dark Fae built such an epic and suspenseful story you couldn’t possibly pass up the opportunity to read this series. Not to mention, the series is available on KU! The Dark Fae series has been described to contain trigger warnings, villain to hero trope and self harm situations and is therefore not for everyone. If you don’t mind trigger content I can’t recommend the entire works of this author enough.
February 13, 2021
Reading this series after already reading (and absolutely loving) the spin off series Dark Fae: Extinction.
This first book was really good yet again, and I'm enjoying being back in this apocalyptic world! I'm glad that it was very different from the first novella in the other series, and it had the perfect pacing in that the first half set up the world and plot, and the second half slaps with the intense action.
Excited to read a novella a night again with a few lovely gals on booksta :)
This first book was really good yet again, and I'm enjoying being back in this apocalyptic world! I'm glad that it was very different from the first novella in the other series, and it had the perfect pacing in that the first half set up the world and plot, and the second half slaps with the intense action.
Excited to read a novella a night again with a few lovely gals on booksta :)
July 14, 2022
4.5 stars for the entire series. Series order is confusing, but the Dark Fae series can be read in these two boxsets: The Dark Fae & The Dark Fae Books 4 - 5. Review for series here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
March 26, 2020
This was a great start to a new series. Very apocalypse oriented. I like these type stories anything fae or dark times. This was right up my alley. The story of a young girl named Vale who is traveling with a group of humans trying to survive. They have survived wars, disease, & the dark fae so far. They live by scavenging for what they need & moving as much as possible. The dark fae are trying to kill all the humans.
March 30, 2020
Great start to new series. This book to me was very emotional. But such a good story. Loved the plot. Storyline kept my attention from start to finish. Very happy there is a second book. Like really cannot wait to get my hands on next book. Overall author did a fantastic job with this story. Definitely recommend reading.
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