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Poison Penitentiary #1
Escape of the Fae
A thousand prisoners against one? Bring it on…
The name’s Jesy Gilchrest and I’m nobody’s fairy Princess. I’m a Cage fighter, pack leader and all around bad-ass alpha Fae. They say I’ve got a little impulse control problem and they’re right about that.
I robbed the Vampire King’s Castle and it got me thrown ass first into Poison Penitentiary, home of the most blood-thirsty creatures in the Magical Sect. A dark secret haunts this place, clinging to the air like a disease and in here, everything goes bump in the night.
I’m not worried though. Because I may be crazy, but I’m not stupid. I got caught for a reason. They’ve got my younger brother locked up in here. He’s innocent and I’ll stop at nothing till he’s freed. There’s just one problem with my brilliant break-out plan though. Remember that little impulse control issue I mentioned earlier?
I got in a fight with the warden on the first day and now she’s promised freedom to any prisoner who can finish me off.
Four of the prison’s deadliest inmates’ step in to help me. A Werewolf, Dragon shifter, Vampire and Demon. What do they want in exchange? Let’s just say they’ve got a taste for Alpha Fae. A big one.
The name’s Jesy Gilchrest and I’m nobody’s fairy Princess. I’m a Cage fighter, pack leader and all around bad-ass alpha Fae. They say I’ve got a little impulse control problem and they’re right about that.
I robbed the Vampire King’s Castle and it got me thrown ass first into Poison Penitentiary, home of the most blood-thirsty creatures in the Magical Sect. A dark secret haunts this place, clinging to the air like a disease and in here, everything goes bump in the night.
I’m not worried though. Because I may be crazy, but I’m not stupid. I got caught for a reason. They’ve got my younger brother locked up in here. He’s innocent and I’ll stop at nothing till he’s freed. There’s just one problem with my brilliant break-out plan though. Remember that little impulse control issue I mentioned earlier?
I got in a fight with the warden on the first day and now she’s promised freedom to any prisoner who can finish me off.
Four of the prison’s deadliest inmates’ step in to help me. A Werewolf, Dragon shifter, Vampire and Demon. What do they want in exchange? Let’s just say they’ve got a taste for Alpha Fae. A big one.
310 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 23, 2020
1587 people are currently reading
1163 people want to read
About the author
Taylor Spratt
45 books176 followersHey there! I'm a Jamaican author with a passion for all things paranormal romance. I write Reverse harem romances with irresistible plot twists that will keep you up way past your bed time.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 219 reviews
June 30, 2020
So after giving it a real shot I DNF this book at 39%.
I'll admit upon reading the blurb I was dubious about the plot because it sounded VERY similar to the plot of my favourite RH Prison book Darkmore Penitentiary. However, I hoped that it had enough differences to keep me interested but sadly that wasn't the case. This book turned out to be a badly done carbon copy of Darkmore Penitentiary. *Sobs audibly*
Soo many things irritated me to the point where I couldn't continue reading but the main culprit being the superficial Mary Sue caricature heroine Jessy... Her character was ridiculously over the top, she thought she was all that and a bag of chips and could take on the whole prison bc she was an all powerful 'alpha fae' with cage fighting experience. *Seriously rolls my eyes*
That term "Alpha Fae" in itself grated on me. Being a huge fan of the PNR/Fantasy genre I've read my fair share of shifter books so having every species and their aunties described as 'packs' and having an 'alpha' rubbed me the wrong way. In my view each supernatural species has their own terminology and using the terms related to shifters for everyone seemed lazy to me.
From the portion I did read I noticed soo many plot holes that were simply glossed over. For example; we were told that the Supernatural community lived beside humans in secret until the big reveal.. To which we're later told that the prison housed "ashen skin gargoyles and Ogre's with leathery green skin"... And they were living in secret amongst the humans HOW? Me thinks the green skin would be a dead giveaway..
Other examples of the plot holes is Jessy being able to identify which supernatural belonged to each species on first glance while they're in human form. There is no explanation as to why she knows what type of shifter/supernatural everyone is, she simply just knows. The prison was super lax. No prison uniforms, the prison guards couldn't punch themselves out a friggin' paper bag yet we're supposed to believe that they're responsible for keeping all of the high powered supernaturals in line? Yea right. The prison life just didn't seem restrictive enough so therefore wasn't believable.
My last gripe is that the characters speech felt awkward and unnatural. It felt forced. Jessy had an immature tone which didn't fit her age; and on the flip side the Vampire sounded like he hadn't bothered to pick up the language of the 21st century.
Whilst there were many things I didn't enjoy about this book, it wasn't completely awful. I did find some parts funny and the writing wasn't the worst I've seen.. But I just couldn't get past the glaring similarities and plot holes.
So I rate this book 2 stars for what I did read.
I'll admit upon reading the blurb I was dubious about the plot because it sounded VERY similar to the plot of my favourite RH Prison book Darkmore Penitentiary. However, I hoped that it had enough differences to keep me interested but sadly that wasn't the case. This book turned out to be a badly done carbon copy of Darkmore Penitentiary. *Sobs audibly*
Soo many things irritated me to the point where I couldn't continue reading but the main culprit being the superficial Mary Sue caricature heroine Jessy... Her character was ridiculously over the top, she thought she was all that and a bag of chips and could take on the whole prison bc she was an all powerful 'alpha fae' with cage fighting experience. *Seriously rolls my eyes*
That term "Alpha Fae" in itself grated on me. Being a huge fan of the PNR/Fantasy genre I've read my fair share of shifter books so having every species and their aunties described as 'packs' and having an 'alpha' rubbed me the wrong way. In my view each supernatural species has their own terminology and using the terms related to shifters for everyone seemed lazy to me.
From the portion I did read I noticed soo many plot holes that were simply glossed over. For example; we were told that the Supernatural community lived beside humans in secret until the big reveal.. To which we're later told that the prison housed "ashen skin gargoyles and Ogre's with leathery green skin"... And they were living in secret amongst the humans HOW? Me thinks the green skin would be a dead giveaway..
Other examples of the plot holes is Jessy being able to identify which supernatural belonged to each species on first glance while they're in human form. There is no explanation as to why she knows what type of shifter/supernatural everyone is, she simply just knows. The prison was super lax. No prison uniforms, the prison guards couldn't punch themselves out a friggin' paper bag yet we're supposed to believe that they're responsible for keeping all of the high powered supernaturals in line? Yea right. The prison life just didn't seem restrictive enough so therefore wasn't believable.
My last gripe is that the characters speech felt awkward and unnatural. It felt forced. Jessy had an immature tone which didn't fit her age; and on the flip side the Vampire sounded like he hadn't bothered to pick up the language of the 21st century.
Whilst there were many things I didn't enjoy about this book, it wasn't completely awful. I did find some parts funny and the writing wasn't the worst I've seen.. But I just couldn't get past the glaring similarities and plot holes.
So I rate this book 2 stars for what I did read.
August 31, 2024
The most juvenile writing I've read in a very long time. It reads like a bad wattpad self-insert-wish-fullfilment story written by a 12 year old.
From the first page the MC keeps going on and on about how badass she is, how she's the most powerful, fearless, too-cool-for-school, I-don't-give-a-shit... you get my point. It was SO forced I think I rolled my eyes a good 30 times in the first 10% of the book. I stopped after that, and I had to force myself to get to that 10% mark.
So yeah, she was incredibly obnoxious, not to mention everyone's reactions to her were ridiculous and unconvincing.
It's a mystery to me how this has 4.30 stars.
From the first page the MC keeps going on and on about how badass she is, how she's the most powerful, fearless, too-cool-for-school, I-don't-give-a-shit... you get my point. It was SO forced I think I rolled my eyes a good 30 times in the first 10% of the book. I stopped after that, and I had to force myself to get to that 10% mark.
So yeah, she was incredibly obnoxious, not to mention everyone's reactions to her were ridiculous and unconvincing.
It's a mystery to me how this has 4.30 stars.
October 18, 2021
So close to not finishing, but I heard about a twist at the end so I skimmed through to that.
I don't understand what the 4 stars and up are for. This book is like Anita Blake meets Sirantha Jax vs Hold by Clare Kent (probably what it's based from), but not in a good way.
The premise sounded promising, but you have a 200+ year old 'alpha' fae who keeps acting and talking like a superficial and randy teenager enamored of her own badassery. You've got a 900+ vampire prince who can breakdance, but talks like an 18th-19th century Lord-ship (seriously his lines sound verbatim like Edwardian Romance novels), is called "Vampy" by the oh-so-clever FL, which only serves to make her sound more of a teenager.
Then you've got 3 more potential hot romantic/sex partners who, despite their supposedly alpha protectiveness, conveniently exit-stage-left when the next one enters-stage-right so they can each have their sexy time with her, even though everyone's basically in prison, where there's literally NOTHING TO DO, except lift weights, play games, and go run free in the forest.
Then there's the evil warden of the prison for the supposed worst-of-the-worst, who still treats prisoners better than any mid-level penitentiary. And the baddest of oh-so-powerful Bad Guys, who waits for his Grand Entrance so the FL can finish having her sexytime with someone else, despite multiple openings.
I wish it were better, but this plot seemed more of a flight of fanciful flippancy with too many plot holes to make it a smooth or fun experience.
I don't understand what the 4 stars and up are for. This book is like Anita Blake meets Sirantha Jax vs Hold by Clare Kent (probably what it's based from), but not in a good way.
The premise sounded promising, but you have a 200+ year old 'alpha' fae who keeps acting and talking like a superficial and randy teenager enamored of her own badassery. You've got a 900+ vampire prince who can breakdance, but talks like an 18th-19th century Lord-ship (seriously his lines sound verbatim like Edwardian Romance novels), is called "Vampy" by the oh-so-clever FL, which only serves to make her sound more of a teenager.
Then you've got 3 more potential hot romantic/sex partners who, despite their supposedly alpha protectiveness, conveniently exit-stage-left when the next one enters-stage-right so they can each have their sexy time with her, even though everyone's basically in prison, where there's literally NOTHING TO DO, except lift weights, play games, and go run free in the forest.
Then there's the evil warden of the prison for the supposed worst-of-the-worst, who still treats prisoners better than any mid-level penitentiary. And the baddest of oh-so-powerful Bad Guys, who waits for his Grand Entrance so the FL can finish having her sexytime with someone else, despite multiple openings.
I wish it were better, but this plot seemed more of a flight of fanciful flippancy with too many plot holes to make it a smooth or fun experience.
March 8, 2022
Wow, another novel I thought I wouldn't enjoy AND here we are! My first Prison Harem, it came off a but aggressive at first...I need to be wooed more before the steam! Which this book definitely has! AND Zombies...nicely done!
June 28, 2020
Note: I received this book from the author and I voluntarily give this review, it is my honest opinion.
Escape of the Fae is the first book in Taylor Spratt's Poison Penitentiary series. This paranormal reverse harem follows Jessica Gilchrest, a badass alpha fae as she tries to pull off the biggest job of her life, breaking her brother out of the most dangerous supernatural prison that exists.
I don't know what to say, I have never come across a book like this before, my brain is kinda broken right now. I'll start by saying that it was good, the story was intriguing, the world-building was good and the characters are fantastic.
Jessy is legit crazy and all alpha and I love it. Characteristic you normally see in male characters, Jessy had but then she had her feminine side and it was all wrapped up in crazy. I can't even begin to explain how her brain works but it is fascinating especially when she interacts with the guys.
With each of the guys, there is a power struggle between them and Jessy. All the guys are pretty much alphas but so is she and they like to exert their dominance over her and she isn't having any of that. Sometimes she wins and sometimes she loses but one thing for sure is that Jessy doesn't give up. As for the guys, there are four, a vampire, a demon, a werewolf, and a dragon. All of the guys have their issues, I mean they are in prison, and a couple of them have done her real dirty but I pretty much like all of them except the dragon, dude is really working a nerve with me and Jessy, and not in a good way.
There is great world-building, with information about different supernaturals, how they interacted with each other, and even a little dip in politics. The characters were complex with interesting histories of their own and we get to know a good chunk of their pasts which is a little unusual for a first book but I enjoyed it. There was plenty of magic and a wide variety of supernaturals, I mean every supernatural you can think of was in this book even a few you wouldn't expect and I loved that.
I haven't read to many prison stories, I'm just really starting to dip my toe in but if Escape of the Fae is any indication then I'm in. The story kept my interest, I couldn't wait to see what happens next. Usually, when I read I had some idea where the story was gonna go but with Escape of the Fae I had no idea, the ending was fantastic, it was a cliffhanger like you wouldn't believe, but still, it was everything and I can't wait to see what's gonna happen in Cursed of the Fae.
Escape of the Fae is the first book in Taylor Spratt's Poison Penitentiary series. This paranormal reverse harem follows Jessica Gilchrest, a badass alpha fae as she tries to pull off the biggest job of her life, breaking her brother out of the most dangerous supernatural prison that exists.
I don't know what to say, I have never come across a book like this before, my brain is kinda broken right now. I'll start by saying that it was good, the story was intriguing, the world-building was good and the characters are fantastic.
Jessy is legit crazy and all alpha and I love it. Characteristic you normally see in male characters, Jessy had but then she had her feminine side and it was all wrapped up in crazy. I can't even begin to explain how her brain works but it is fascinating especially when she interacts with the guys.
With each of the guys, there is a power struggle between them and Jessy. All the guys are pretty much alphas but so is she and they like to exert their dominance over her and she isn't having any of that. Sometimes she wins and sometimes she loses but one thing for sure is that Jessy doesn't give up. As for the guys, there are four, a vampire, a demon, a werewolf, and a dragon. All of the guys have their issues, I mean they are in prison, and a couple of them have done her real dirty but I pretty much like all of them except the dragon, dude is really working a nerve with me and Jessy, and not in a good way.
There is great world-building, with information about different supernaturals, how they interacted with each other, and even a little dip in politics. The characters were complex with interesting histories of their own and we get to know a good chunk of their pasts which is a little unusual for a first book but I enjoyed it. There was plenty of magic and a wide variety of supernaturals, I mean every supernatural you can think of was in this book even a few you wouldn't expect and I loved that.
I haven't read to many prison stories, I'm just really starting to dip my toe in but if Escape of the Fae is any indication then I'm in. The story kept my interest, I couldn't wait to see what happens next. Usually, when I read I had some idea where the story was gonna go but with Escape of the Fae I had no idea, the ending was fantastic, it was a cliffhanger like you wouldn't believe, but still, it was everything and I can't wait to see what's gonna happen in Cursed of the Fae.
Read
July 9, 2025DNF at pg 131, 31%
Jeez, I cannot keep doing this
Jeez, I cannot keep doing this
June 26, 2020
*Spoiler Alert*
Jessy (Fae FMC) manages to get herself locked up in Pembroke Penitentiary in an attempt to rescue her brother Michael. Except she not only makes an enemy of Blackwater -The Warden but now shes public enemy number one with every inmate there. Theres a target on her back but not everyone seems to want to kill her especially not Jamie (Old Friend), Broderick (Demon), Alexandros (Vampire) and Drake (A Gruff Dragon). Swoon oh boy do these four guys steam up my kindle! So Hot! I flaming loved this book. Jessy is a kick*** and take no nonsense character. I loved her wise cracks too including all the banter with the guys. Bloody hell WTH was that ending? That completely threw me!!! Didnt see that coming. Counting down the days until the next book now. This one was a damn fine read
Jessy (Fae FMC) manages to get herself locked up in Pembroke Penitentiary in an attempt to rescue her brother Michael. Except she not only makes an enemy of Blackwater -The Warden but now shes public enemy number one with every inmate there. Theres a target on her back but not everyone seems to want to kill her especially not Jamie (Old Friend), Broderick (Demon), Alexandros (Vampire) and Drake (A Gruff Dragon). Swoon oh boy do these four guys steam up my kindle! So Hot! I flaming loved this book. Jessy is a kick*** and take no nonsense character. I loved her wise cracks too including all the banter with the guys. Bloody hell WTH was that ending? That completely threw me!!! Didnt see that coming. Counting down the days until the next book now. This one was a damn fine read
July 13, 2020
Escape of the Fae was a good start to the Poison Penitentiary Series. There was a few things that I had to keep reading-on so I did not loose interest. I do not want to point these out, so that if they do not bother you then it will not be an issue. But to me those small things did not take away from the story, or what the series will turn in to being. It is just a few things that I did not like, but maybe someone else it does not bother.
Having said that, this was a good start to the series, the characters are strong. The story is fast paced, the plot interesting and the ending leaves us wondering what happens next. That means there is a cliffhanger.
Having said that, this was a good start to the series, the characters are strong. The story is fast paced, the plot interesting and the ending leaves us wondering what happens next. That means there is a cliffhanger.
August 3, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ – Fae-nomenal Fun!
Escape of the Fae totally swept me away! Great pacing, intriguing characters, and just enough chaos to keep things spicy. I'm hooked and can't wait to see where this wild fae ride goes next. Bring on the magic and mayhem! 🧚♀️✨
Escape of the Fae totally swept me away! Great pacing, intriguing characters, and just enough chaos to keep things spicy. I'm hooked and can't wait to see where this wild fae ride goes next. Bring on the magic and mayhem! 🧚♀️✨
Want to read
April 9, 2022🎁 FREE on Amazon today (4/9/2022)! 🎁
July 17, 2024
Reread
*still love it!
RH, fae, shifters, zombies, dragons, witches, vampires, demons, and Hades! All in a prison, kinda like an academy with bars and no lessons. Full of alphas, sexy ones for a alpha fae.*
4.5 stars
Original review
The first few chapters I found hard to get into. Alpha Faes is all new to me. But I soon started enjoying the book as the author built a great world to get into. The characters are also pretty well built...in imaginary body and as a character I can invest it.
She's sassy, strong, and an alpha. She fights because it's all she's known and is what she is great at. But she's also funny and full of the innocence of losing yourself in that moment.
Found myself feeling sad as I got to the, I didn't want the story to end. I wanted more steamy smutty moments, too!
4.2 stars
*still love it!
RH, fae, shifters, zombies, dragons, witches, vampires, demons, and Hades! All in a prison, kinda like an academy with bars and no lessons. Full of alphas, sexy ones for a alpha fae.*
4.5 stars
Original review
The first few chapters I found hard to get into. Alpha Faes is all new to me. But I soon started enjoying the book as the author built a great world to get into. The characters are also pretty well built...in imaginary body and as a character I can invest it.
She's sassy, strong, and an alpha. She fights because it's all she's known and is what she is great at. But she's also funny and full of the innocence of losing yourself in that moment.
Found myself feeling sad as I got to the, I didn't want the story to end. I wanted more steamy smutty moments, too!
4.2 stars
February 19, 2021
Ok so I’m going to review all the books the entire series. First off let me state the 3 books are not standalone’s as in fact they are just one long complete book, Chopped into 3 parts. Second let me state for the record I hate that, right off at the beginning. Had I not been given all 3 books at the same time, My review would be full of malice, And never read anything from this author ever again. I am not one of those people who likes my books to end abruptly in the middle of a story! I firmly strongly believe every book needs a conflict and a complete resolution to said conflict. And a new book must have a new conflict and a new resolution to said new conflict. I do not mind if the conflict is created by the same villain(s), but only that the current conflict be resolved before started a new book. This is one full book chopped up into 3 parts. Unless author is going to offer them as a volume, Or reader likes waiting 6 months or more for the next book that will abruptly end to continued story. Or if readers don’t mind getting books separately and the pitfalls that comes with getting each book separately, if you know what I mean. Ok, now that we have established that. This story is well developed and so are the characters. I think the author needs a better group of alpha/beta readers as there were some glaring potholes in the story that kept me up at night and prevented me from sleeping! So not trying to spoil anything we already know MFC gets herself sent to magic prison, to rescue her brother. Upon arrival, makes deadly enemies. Her “allies” i.e her men, help her go on this quest to free her brother. They need to obtain a magical fang, nearly dying in order to get it. Getting trapped for hours, One ally produces a Magick bag that provides you with whatever you desperately need.. ok? Why didn’t they procure the fang that way? Ok? but a blanket and booze is reasonable but after escaping, they are so focused on the mission they literally don’t eat for 3 days, missing all meals! Then the big battle, villain #1 gives villain #2 THE SWORD OF the DOMINION, AN INDOMITABLE SWORD to kill Main characters to procure his own freedom from prison. Ok, so why doesn’t he use said sword to kill all guards with his army and every single prisoner just walk right out! And later I wanted to slap MFC cause she has too many inner monologues with herself while lives are at stake! it’s annoying! I found myself skipping past. Also because this was 3 separate parts there was an enormous amount of reminders of the previous interactions and past events. I had to skip through all that sludge in order keep the flow of the story moving along. Then the battle of century comes, MFC leaves to rescue brother ok, but her allies are exhausted and battle weary already, and somehow she manages to take 3 hours in what the story makes you think is only 20 mins to rescue him. Ok? Hum? Then when arriving to battle to see her “men” all dying, she takes nearly two chapters to inner monologue as well, as having a long discussion with her brother about why she should help her “friends” instead of leaving them. I wanted to slap the beguezzus out of her! and maybe the author too. Then villain #2 w/ said indomitable sword just stands there watching his huge army being destroyed by 4 magical’s Then later she managed to defeat villain#2 but leaves said indomitable sword of dominion on the battlefield! What? ok? Hmm? Then goes to infirmary to save “friends” but there is helter skelter in prison villain #1, who is the warden, is near dead. No one is in charge of prison, and all inmates are rioting and looting. So now they have no food.. um? Excuse me don’t you have a magical bag that gives and provides you with what you desperately need? So far they only used it to get a blanket for sex and booze. Also, an inmate has a crystal that turns people into frozen glass. Why doesn’t anyone use this against the guards and just walk right out of the prison? These glaring questions have kept me up at night while reading this story. I’ve barely slept in 2 days reading these 3 books. Thank the powers that be, they were given to me. I’d be mad instead of restless, confused, & needing answers!
I received 3 book series for free. Thank you, I really did love the series flaws and all. Hope to be a Alpha reader for this author. Hint hint I got to have a wonderful conversation with the author as I actually won all three ebooks on a Facebook contest. And i offered to alpha read for her. Hope she takes me up on the offer. With all said and done this was a great book. Flaws & all
I received 3 book series for free. Thank you, I really did love the series flaws and all. Hope to be a Alpha reader for this author. Hint hint I got to have a wonderful conversation with the author as I actually won all three ebooks on a Facebook contest. And i offered to alpha read for her. Hope she takes me up on the offer. With all said and done this was a great book. Flaws & all
June 23, 2020
*Somewhat spoilers but not really*
Holy crap, that was a wild ride! I wasn’t exactly sure what to expect going into this book except for the fact that Jessy, the feisty Alpha FMC, was going to be interesting. That doesn’t even begin to describe it. Jessy didn’t have a normal childhood, and that does come into her experience in the book, which makes it even more interesting as you find out further about her as the story progresses. Her love interests each vary in looks and personality, but the thing they share is a love for her- even if one of them isn’t ready to admit it yet... *Wink* If there is one thing I most admire about Jessy, it’s that she will do anything for those she loves. She gets herself thrown into this crazy prison because her brother is being held there and she won’t stop until they are both free. Of course there are many moments when I felt my heart ready to jump out of my chest because I was afraid her daring trysts would get her (and most of the time, her love interests) caught, so that was also a part of the book I really enjoyed. If I had to say one thing about Poison Penitentiary, it would be that NOTHING is what it seems. Especially those in power.....
I definitely recommend this book. I loved it and I’m sure you will too if you love prison romances! This is a PNR and also an RH, which means Jessy won’t have to choose between her guys. Now, you know you want to read it.... so go ahead! :)
It does have a cliffhanger, but Spratt will make the wait well worth it. Enjoy!
Holy crap, that was a wild ride! I wasn’t exactly sure what to expect going into this book except for the fact that Jessy, the feisty Alpha FMC, was going to be interesting. That doesn’t even begin to describe it. Jessy didn’t have a normal childhood, and that does come into her experience in the book, which makes it even more interesting as you find out further about her as the story progresses. Her love interests each vary in looks and personality, but the thing they share is a love for her- even if one of them isn’t ready to admit it yet... *Wink* If there is one thing I most admire about Jessy, it’s that she will do anything for those she loves. She gets herself thrown into this crazy prison because her brother is being held there and she won’t stop until they are both free. Of course there are many moments when I felt my heart ready to jump out of my chest because I was afraid her daring trysts would get her (and most of the time, her love interests) caught, so that was also a part of the book I really enjoyed. If I had to say one thing about Poison Penitentiary, it would be that NOTHING is what it seems. Especially those in power.....
I definitely recommend this book. I loved it and I’m sure you will too if you love prison romances! This is a PNR and also an RH, which means Jessy won’t have to choose between her guys. Now, you know you want to read it.... so go ahead! :)
It does have a cliffhanger, but Spratt will make the wait well worth it. Enjoy!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 6, 2025
Basic Plot: Fae Jessie gets herself thrown into prison to try to break her brother out.
I love a good heist story. I don't need my main characters to be perfectly moral. Lately, I've been reading a lot of smut. This book had huge potential and barely managed to keep my interest. I liked the concept, but the execution of it nearly bored me to tears. Jessie is supposed to be a badass, but gets her butt kicked at every turn and needs rescuing from the various male characters she boinks throughout the book. All of which she seems to have a unique, instant, and unexplainable connection/bond to. But she immediately forgets about these Very Important men as soon as the next one shows up and wants to boink. Oy. It was ridiculous.
Now, I did like the twist at the end of the book. I confess to not having seen it coming, though I had been noting weirdness throughout the book, which in retrospect, was some very subtle foreshadowing.
I don't know. The ending caught my interest and left the story on a cliffhanger. If the library gets the audiobook, I may listen to it, but I'm not sure if the ending was enough for me to continue. I have plenty of books in my TBR, and I'm not sure if continuing is worth it.
I love a good heist story. I don't need my main characters to be perfectly moral. Lately, I've been reading a lot of smut. This book had huge potential and barely managed to keep my interest. I liked the concept, but the execution of it nearly bored me to tears. Jessie is supposed to be a badass, but gets her butt kicked at every turn and needs rescuing from the various male characters she boinks throughout the book. All of which she seems to have a unique, instant, and unexplainable connection/bond to. But she immediately forgets about these Very Important men as soon as the next one shows up and wants to boink. Oy. It was ridiculous.
Now, I did like the twist at the end of the book. I confess to not having seen it coming, though I had been noting weirdness throughout the book, which in retrospect, was some very subtle foreshadowing.
I don't know. The ending caught my interest and left the story on a cliffhanger. If the library gets the audiobook, I may listen to it, but I'm not sure if the ending was enough for me to continue. I have plenty of books in my TBR, and I'm not sure if continuing is worth it.
June 7, 2024
3.4 stars
Why does it end like that!? Right when it was going somewhere. 😩 my honest take on this it's not what I expected but I’m not one to DNF when I should lol anyway it’s slow from the beginning to the middle if it wasn’t for the audiobook playing out it probably would have taken longer to finish since I was reading along with the audio.
A lot is going on at first I didn’t understand it then it made sense more towards the end if the rest of the book felt like the end I think a lot more people would have finished it. I really wanted to give it at least four stars but I can’t so it’s a 3.4 for me. I hope the second one’s more fast-paced
I liked it to a point I was waiting for her brother to pop up but it didn’t happen as I thought
Why does it end like that!? Right when it was going somewhere. 😩 my honest take on this it's not what I expected but I’m not one to DNF when I should lol anyway it’s slow from the beginning to the middle if it wasn’t for the audiobook playing out it probably would have taken longer to finish since I was reading along with the audio.
A lot is going on at first I didn’t understand it then it made sense more towards the end if the rest of the book felt like the end I think a lot more people would have finished it. I really wanted to give it at least four stars but I can’t so it’s a 3.4 for me. I hope the second one’s more fast-paced
I liked it to a point I was waiting for her brother to pop up but it didn’t happen as I thought
July 2, 2020
This is the first book in a new series and it is amazing. So what is Poison Penitentiary? Well it is where all the bad supernaturals go to. So why does Jessica Gilcrest want to go there? Well its personal for her. Jessica is a tough chick and can stand her ground. She is sassy and snarky. I love her attitude. She is amazing and you can't help but fall in love with her. So when she gets to the penitentiary she meets Drake, Alexandros, Jamie and Broderick. So there is a love/hate thing going on with all five of them. However, while she is there she learns of the history of the penitentiary and it is a shocker. Now will she be strong enough to conquer her past demons to succeed. I cannot wait for book two to come out. I need to know what will happen.
July 1, 2020
Super great and exciting read.
First of all can we just say how hot the cover of this book is??? I'm a sucker for great covers.
What an exciting read. This story from start to finish is brilliant, full of sassyness.
The story is very well developed. The characters are superb. The Main character is a strong female who brings determination and whit in an abundance.
I'm thrilled to have a found Taylor Spratt a completely new author to myself.
Desperately seeking book 2 as I'm now dying to know what happens to jess and "her men"
Brilliant read highly recommend.
First of all can we just say how hot the cover of this book is??? I'm a sucker for great covers.
What an exciting read. This story from start to finish is brilliant, full of sassyness.
The story is very well developed. The characters are superb. The Main character is a strong female who brings determination and whit in an abundance.
I'm thrilled to have a found Taylor Spratt a completely new author to myself.
Desperately seeking book 2 as I'm now dying to know what happens to jess and "her men"
Brilliant read highly recommend.
July 3, 2020
This is just fantastic! With a kick ass storyline and a snarky, sassy and feisty female mc you will not be able to put this down! With different paranormal beings and four hot and sexy alphas, this is so emotional It had me laughing, crying and all the others in between and that ending!! OMG! Gonna have to read book 2 like now! (Please!)
November 4, 2020
So much Mystery, so much intrigue, so much passion and romance and lust. I adored this book with all of its illusions and little hints at bigger plots and problems. That ending though, amazing! I did not see that coming whatsoever! I could not put this down once I started reading. The world building and the characters depth of personalities and emotions were so detailed. I just completely loved this installment and I can’t wait for the Second one. The suspense was fantastically written. The beginning immediately gives us a look into Jessica‘s character and what she’s going to be doing in the prison. Backstories are given in small doses instead of being bombarded by all the facts at once. And even as I’m writing this I still can’t get over that cliffhanger, why would you do that to me? LOL if I could give this more than five stars I would. Taylor Spratt u rock!
June 24, 2020
Jessy had to be a different kind of crazy to do what she planned but will her past forever be who she was or will she overcome it and be who she wants to be? Will her past life have any effect on her current? This book will put ur mind through the ringer trying to figure out what will happen next
June 24, 2020
Great read! Jessy is such a spunky character! I love that she takes no crap! It’s a fast burn with all kinds of hotness! And the story is full of twists and turns!
dnf
August 14, 2024DNF’d at 68%
June 26, 2020
This book was absolutely amazing. Hades is a dick and so is The Warden. So much happened in this book it was absolutely crazy. I can’t believe all the secrets Revealed at the end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 18, 2022
2 stars
July 13, 2022
I picked up this book expecting something similar to Darkmore Penitentiary… and was severely disappointed. With a really good book, you’re involved in the descriptions, as if you’re actually there. With this one, I kept being yanked out of the world by oddly placed words: things that seemed nit-picky and idiotic to pay attention to, but when added up, made for a subpar reading experience. The first page had a grammar mistake, “god’s sakes” instead of “gods’ sakes” (the plural possessive form of god). In the first few pages the readers were told to imagine something twice. Using the word “imagine.” In areas where contractions would have been far better suited, multiple words were written. Things just sound slightly… off. Not quite how normal humans converse, but not so off that you could put your finger on exactly what the problem is.
Continue from there to the world building tangents. They were absolutely dreadful. Instead of gradually folding the information into the story, it was vomited into long paragraphs after unnatural dialogue, placed solely in the story for the purpose of bringing up the backstory of the world. My eyes immediately glazed over in boredom.
Next, you have the main character. She tried to be tough and interesting, but acting, speaking, and thinking like a pre-teen threw that vibe off quite a bit. There were way too many exclamation points and childish behaviors. The problem is, you want to like the mc. She’s witty, sarcastic, and amusing. None of which matters when the writing style makes one feel removed from the story. It’s as if someone has grabbed up everything that a bada$$ character is supposed to be and then failed to correctly add it together, leading to a weirdly disjointed person.
Also, the glaring plot holes hurt. For example, “ He could feel my power then, no doubt about it, and by the tremble of his eyes he was intimidated.” Then, exactly 18 paragraphs later, “‘That’s because here your powers are gone.’ She wasn’t kidding. I’d barely felt my flames in hours, let alone my fae light.” Ah yes, the guards are terrified of this chick’s… currently non-existent powers. On that note, the guards being weak makes no sense. How are wimpy guards expected to guard a prison full of powerful fae?
Then of course, instances that are wrong in how humans experience things. You walk into a room that’s filled with a nasty odor, a prison warden, grey file cabinets, colorful mats, and a gigantic window. What’s the first thing you notice? Obviously the smell. You don’t only notice it when the previously mentioned warden points out gas seeping through vents. Having your attention brought to the smell again after getting used to it is logical, but noticing it for the first time after stewing in it for a bit is just, well, strange.
All of which are annoying, but if those were the only problems over the course of an entire book, not to bad right? Wrong. All of that was in the first chapter. Barely halfway through the first chapter. Save yourself a painful few hours and go pick up a book that doesn’t make you want to call and complain to whoever the heck thought they edited it.
Continue from there to the world building tangents. They were absolutely dreadful. Instead of gradually folding the information into the story, it was vomited into long paragraphs after unnatural dialogue, placed solely in the story for the purpose of bringing up the backstory of the world. My eyes immediately glazed over in boredom.
Next, you have the main character. She tried to be tough and interesting, but acting, speaking, and thinking like a pre-teen threw that vibe off quite a bit. There were way too many exclamation points and childish behaviors. The problem is, you want to like the mc. She’s witty, sarcastic, and amusing. None of which matters when the writing style makes one feel removed from the story. It’s as if someone has grabbed up everything that a bada$$ character is supposed to be and then failed to correctly add it together, leading to a weirdly disjointed person.
Also, the glaring plot holes hurt. For example, “ He could feel my power then, no doubt about it, and by the tremble of his eyes he was intimidated.” Then, exactly 18 paragraphs later, “‘That’s because here your powers are gone.’ She wasn’t kidding. I’d barely felt my flames in hours, let alone my fae light.” Ah yes, the guards are terrified of this chick’s… currently non-existent powers. On that note, the guards being weak makes no sense. How are wimpy guards expected to guard a prison full of powerful fae?
Then of course, instances that are wrong in how humans experience things. You walk into a room that’s filled with a nasty odor, a prison warden, grey file cabinets, colorful mats, and a gigantic window. What’s the first thing you notice? Obviously the smell. You don’t only notice it when the previously mentioned warden points out gas seeping through vents. Having your attention brought to the smell again after getting used to it is logical, but noticing it for the first time after stewing in it for a bit is just, well, strange.
All of which are annoying, but if those were the only problems over the course of an entire book, not to bad right? Wrong. All of that was in the first chapter. Barely halfway through the first chapter. Save yourself a painful few hours and go pick up a book that doesn’t make you want to call and complain to whoever the heck thought they edited it.
June 28, 2020
I really liked the world created for this series, it’s not something I’ve read before! I’d like to read some stories about the war between magicals and humans, I think it could create some good reads!
The variety of characters picked for what I assume will be the FMC’s RH are interesting, all very different and opposites too which I find more appealing.
What I found difficult about the book is the writing. It’s very overdramatised, overly descriptive and clunky so it didn’t flow as well as I prefer and it just felt unnatural. Some of the wording/phrasing just seemed far fetched and for a RH with a character that has a horrific reputation it all seemed a little PG at times. There wasn’t any evidence of her terrible, scary persona that had people running scared (FMC just threatened verbally and people would quake and so her bidding).
The different character POA didn’t quite flow, it would be one character POA but they would know how someone else is feeling/thinking without it being verbalised.
So overall I think great idea and creativity, but it wasn’t quite well executed for me personally.
The variety of characters picked for what I assume will be the FMC’s RH are interesting, all very different and opposites too which I find more appealing.
What I found difficult about the book is the writing. It’s very overdramatised, overly descriptive and clunky so it didn’t flow as well as I prefer and it just felt unnatural. Some of the wording/phrasing just seemed far fetched and for a RH with a character that has a horrific reputation it all seemed a little PG at times. There wasn’t any evidence of her terrible, scary persona that had people running scared (FMC just threatened verbally and people would quake and so her bidding).
The different character POA didn’t quite flow, it would be one character POA but they would know how someone else is feeling/thinking without it being verbalised.
So overall I think great idea and creativity, but it wasn’t quite well executed for me personally.
August 14, 2023
Bad, just.... bad
Where to start with this one? Ok, so there were the usual grammar issues along with a few formatting errors. The world building was one info dump and a few throw away comments rather than actual storytelling. There wasn't much character development and what little there was happened off page. The supposed relationship building was crap, and worst of all (for this kind of book) the sex scenes were clunky and boring. The plot sounded interesting enough, although certainly not unique, until this author mangled it with bad writing all around. I'm adding this author to my Never Again list.
Where to start with this one? Ok, so there were the usual grammar issues along with a few formatting errors. The world building was one info dump and a few throw away comments rather than actual storytelling. There wasn't much character development and what little there was happened off page. The supposed relationship building was crap, and worst of all (for this kind of book) the sex scenes were clunky and boring. The plot sounded interesting enough, although certainly not unique, until this author mangled it with bad writing all around. I'm adding this author to my Never Again list.
August 27, 2020
Half-baked Escape
From the outset, it’s easy to tell that the author put a lot of time and effort into writing this book. I was particularly impressed when the author began by naming three characters “Dummy One”, “Dummy Two”, and “Dummy Three”. Why? Because the female protagonist, Jessy, could tell that they were dumb. Oooh, burn.
In general the book has an awkward start and never really gets going in any meaningful or interesting way. One would be better off watching Chicken Run if they’re in the mood for prison-break/romance fiction.
From the outset, it’s easy to tell that the author put a lot of time and effort into writing this book. I was particularly impressed when the author began by naming three characters “Dummy One”, “Dummy Two”, and “Dummy Three”. Why? Because the female protagonist, Jessy, could tell that they were dumb. Oooh, burn.
In general the book has an awkward start and never really gets going in any meaningful or interesting way. One would be better off watching Chicken Run if they’re in the mood for prison-break/romance fiction.
January 1, 2026
Overall, okay
Most of the time, I can read a book this length in less than a day but I feel like it dragged until 60ish%.
I really was hoping the book would end in disappointment so I wouldn’t need to read the next one but the ending got better.
A thorough edit needs to be done.
Most of the time, I can read a book this length in less than a day but I feel like it dragged until 60ish%.
I really was hoping the book would end in disappointment so I wouldn’t need to read the next one but the ending got better.
A thorough edit needs to be done.
July 5, 2020
I have been very very wary of reading any books on paranormal prisons. The few that I have read have always let me down and disappointed me. I will say that Escape of the Fae was better than any of the other ones I have read.
Let me start by saying though... that this prison was much nicer than I would have expected (well besides the whole lower level and weird food choices at the cafeteria). Like, they have this beautiful forested area that they can visit for the entirety of the day every week and also have lots of recreational areas that they are free to visit all the time?? Plus, their bathrooms aren’t bad and they get plenty of amenities that I wouldn’t have thought would be given? Not too shabby for the most dangerous and renowned prison of the supernatural world. I guess I was just expecting, like, the worst conditions and a dog eat dog world.
I did like the world building. It was unique to throw in this whole “seven years war” that the humans started once the supernatural world got outed and seeing the casual aftermath of it all. The system of power was interesting too.
Despite liking the overall story, I think I enjoyed the story between Jessica and her brother, Michael, the most. The back story was slowly integrated into the story and we get to see Jessica at her weakest to where she is today at her most badass. The climax to the finish definitely caught me by surprise. It was what kept me intrigued enough to keep a look out for the next book.
Now, the romance. I felt that all the male characters in Jessica’s harem (or soon to be harem lol) are interesting and unique enough. We have Jamie: the childhood werewolf best friend who is hiding a mysterious secret as to why he’s called the “Grim Reaper” by the other inmates. Then Alexandros, the vampire who upon first laying eyes on her is instantly obsessed for unknown reasons. Broderick is a demon, a race completely opposite of Jessica’s Fae nature. And lastly, Drake, a stubborn and irritating dragon-shifter, who doesn’t want Jessica to stir up any trouble. Too bad for him that’s all she’s planning to do. They all had their good scenes with her but the one scene where they were all together was just in the beginning. I wish we, as readers, could have seen more interaction between them instead of maybe the occasional one or two scenes with some of them together. However, I still enjoy getting to know these characters individually and how they interact with Jessica. All good fun.
I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book. We leave off with more questions than answers (very much a cliffhanger) and it leaves me wanting more. I guess I’ll just have to wait for September!
Let me start by saying though... that this prison was much nicer than I would have expected (well besides the whole lower level and weird food choices at the cafeteria). Like, they have this beautiful forested area that they can visit for the entirety of the day every week and also have lots of recreational areas that they are free to visit all the time?? Plus, their bathrooms aren’t bad and they get plenty of amenities that I wouldn’t have thought would be given? Not too shabby for the most dangerous and renowned prison of the supernatural world. I guess I was just expecting, like, the worst conditions and a dog eat dog world.
I did like the world building. It was unique to throw in this whole “seven years war” that the humans started once the supernatural world got outed and seeing the casual aftermath of it all. The system of power was interesting too.
Despite liking the overall story, I think I enjoyed the story between Jessica and her brother, Michael, the most. The back story was slowly integrated into the story and we get to see Jessica at her weakest to where she is today at her most badass. The climax to the finish definitely caught me by surprise. It was what kept me intrigued enough to keep a look out for the next book.
Now, the romance. I felt that all the male characters in Jessica’s harem (or soon to be harem lol) are interesting and unique enough. We have Jamie: the childhood werewolf best friend who is hiding a mysterious secret as to why he’s called the “Grim Reaper” by the other inmates. Then Alexandros, the vampire who upon first laying eyes on her is instantly obsessed for unknown reasons. Broderick is a demon, a race completely opposite of Jessica’s Fae nature. And lastly, Drake, a stubborn and irritating dragon-shifter, who doesn’t want Jessica to stir up any trouble. Too bad for him that’s all she’s planning to do. They all had their good scenes with her but the one scene where they were all together was just in the beginning. I wish we, as readers, could have seen more interaction between them instead of maybe the occasional one or two scenes with some of them together. However, I still enjoy getting to know these characters individually and how they interact with Jessica. All good fun.
I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book. We leave off with more questions than answers (very much a cliffhanger) and it leaves me wanting more. I guess I’ll just have to wait for September!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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