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The Fae of Bitter Thorn #2
Castle of Bitter Thorn
Faerie bargains are not easily broken. Elora has decided to stay in Faerie to help Prince Brannick become High King. With the element of surprise on their side, they only have to hide their sword training lessons until the last phase of testing. But Brannick is ruled by a bargain that could ruin everything. Queen Alessandra is beginning to remember her history with the prince. With one word, she could force him to lose the testing and give up his freedom forever. With a growing reputation, Elora’s anonymity in Faerie is shrinking fast. Her sisters are safe in the mortal realm, but she is desperate to help Brannick win the throne. If he doesn’t, any number of fae could capture Elora. Or even worse… her sisters. Castle of Bitter Thorn is Book 2 in The Fae of Bitter Thorn. Don't miss the other books in this enchanting fantasy series! Prequel: Heir of Bitter Thorn (available on author's website)
Book 1: Court of Bitter Thorn
Book 2: Castle of Bitter Thorn
Book 3: Crown of Bitter Thorn
Book 4: Queen of Bitter Thorn Buy the book now and dive into the magical world of Bitter Thorn.
Book 1: Court of Bitter Thorn
Book 2: Castle of Bitter Thorn
Book 3: Crown of Bitter Thorn
Book 4: Queen of Bitter Thorn Buy the book now and dive into the magical world of Bitter Thorn.
324 pages, Paperback
First published January 14, 2021
171 people are currently reading
1725 people want to read
About the author
Kay L. Moody
35 books862 followersKay L. Moody is the YA fantasy author of COURT OF BITTER THORN and THE ELEMENTS OF THE CROWN. Her books feature rich world building, slow burn romance, mythical creatures, and twisty plots.
As a lover of strong female characters, books, and the color pink, she enjoys diving into magical worlds where characters can overcome even their darkest struggles. She lives in the western United States with her husband and four sons. Connect with Kay directly when you follow her on social media @kaylmoody
Visit her website to learn more.
www.KayLMoody.com
As a lover of strong female characters, books, and the color pink, she enjoys diving into magical worlds where characters can overcome even their darkest struggles. She lives in the western United States with her husband and four sons. Connect with Kay directly when you follow her on social media @kaylmoody
Visit her website to learn more.
www.KayLMoody.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 238 reviews
December 23, 2024
✩ 2.75 stars ✩
What to Expect:
➼ Fae Royalty
➼ Character Drive
➼ Faerie Creatures
➼ Slow Burn
➼ Power Plays/Court Politics
➼ Fae Bargain
➼ Hidden Familial Bonds
➼ Magical Enchantments
➼ Third Person POV
I have similar feelings about this book as I did the previous book. At face value this should be a slam dunk for me, but I’m really struggling to connect with the characters and the storyline. It is a VERY slow burn in the sense that he’s not even able to touch her, and while this is somewhat romantic, it doesn’t make for a very interesting read.
The FMC did show some character growth in this book and I found her much less annoying overall, but she is still up to her same antics making Fae bargains. She had less selfish reasoning for doing so this time around, but it still bothered me that she hasn’t fully learned her lesson from her past mistakes.
If I could change one thing about this series, it would be for it to have been written in first person POV. The storyline is very character driven and I’m really having a hard time with that since it’s also written in third person. Not enough is happening in the storyline and I feel too removed from the characters to be fully invested in their plight.
I need this slow burn to go somewhere in the next book or I might do the unthinkable and read only 3 of the 4 books. 😅
✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼
Pre-read: Made it about half way through Haunt Your Heart Out and needed a change of pace. Hoping the author will focus more on developing the romantic relationship between the MC’s in book two!
P.S. It’s snowing here it Nashville! ❄️🌨️
What to Expect:
➼ Fae Royalty
➼ Character Drive
➼ Faerie Creatures
➼ Slow Burn
➼ Power Plays/Court Politics
➼ Fae Bargain
➼ Hidden Familial Bonds
➼ Magical Enchantments
➼ Third Person POV
I have similar feelings about this book as I did the previous book. At face value this should be a slam dunk for me, but I’m really struggling to connect with the characters and the storyline. It is a VERY slow burn in the sense that he’s not even able to touch her, and while this is somewhat romantic, it doesn’t make for a very interesting read.
The FMC did show some character growth in this book and I found her much less annoying overall, but she is still up to her same antics making Fae bargains. She had less selfish reasoning for doing so this time around, but it still bothered me that she hasn’t fully learned her lesson from her past mistakes.
If I could change one thing about this series, it would be for it to have been written in first person POV. The storyline is very character driven and I’m really having a hard time with that since it’s also written in third person. Not enough is happening in the storyline and I feel too removed from the characters to be fully invested in their plight.
I need this slow burn to go somewhere in the next book or I might do the unthinkable and read only 3 of the 4 books. 😅
✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼
Pre-read: Made it about half way through Haunt Your Heart Out and needed a change of pace. Hoping the author will focus more on developing the romantic relationship between the MC’s in book two!
P.S. It’s snowing here it Nashville! ❄️🌨️
January 29, 2024
5/5 🌟
5/5 ❤️🩹
3/5 🥰
0/5 🌶️
0/5 🔎
4/5 😰A
2/5 🎭T
⚠️⛔️TRIGGERS:⛔️⚠️
Forced Proximity
Violence
Gaslighting
Enchantment
🗯️💬BOOK BLURB:💬🗯️
In this breathtaking second book in The Fae of Bitter Thorn series, a mortal girl must help a devious prince become the next High King of Faerie.
Faerie bargains are not easily broken. Elora has decided to stay in Faerie to help Prince Brannick become High King. With the element of surprise on their side, they only have to hide their sword training lessons until the last phase of testing.
But Brannick is ruled by a bargain that could ruin everything. Queen Alessandra is beginning to remember her history with the prince. With one word, she could force him to lose the testing and give up his freedom forever.
With a growing reputation, Elora’s anonymity in Faerie is shrinking fast. Her sisters are safe in the mortal realm, but she is desperate to help Brannick win the throne.
If he doesn’t, any number of fae could capture Elora. Or even worse… her sisters.
🤔🧐🤯MY THOUGHTS:🤯🧐🤔
What a cliffhanger this ended on. Things do not look good for our MFC, Elora.
She wants to stay in Faerie so badly. She and Prince Brannick are in love. She has to find a way to break his vow to Queen Alessandra so that they can be together. Faerie isn’t safe for her though because she’s only a mortal.
Queen Alessandra gives a pink shard to Elora so that Elora can end her mortal life and become full Fae. Elora does have some Fae blood but no one has ever survived using a pink shard. A mortal becomes too overwrought when experiencing the emotions of their entire life. Especially since the shard magnifies those emotions.
Can Elora survive? Probably not. What will her sacrifice do to her sisters and to Brannick?
RATING KEY:
🌟 Stars - based on the overall plot and theme or idea of the book
❤️🩹 Emotions - based on how emotional I got while reading
🥰 Romance - based on how well I got invested in the love story aspect
🌶️ Spice - based on how the sex scenes were portrayed and written as well as the number of sex scenes
🔎 Mystery - based on how well it kept me guessing who, how and why
😰 Scared/Anxious - based on how scared or anxious the book made me while reading
🎭 Comedy/Tragedy based on if I laughed or if there was a tragic event and how it affected me. I will mark the Masks with either a C or T to indicate Comedy or Tragedy
5/5 ❤️🩹
3/5 🥰
0/5 🌶️
0/5 🔎
4/5 😰A
2/5 🎭T
⚠️⛔️TRIGGERS:⛔️⚠️
Forced Proximity
Violence
Gaslighting
Enchantment
🗯️💬BOOK BLURB:💬🗯️
In this breathtaking second book in The Fae of Bitter Thorn series, a mortal girl must help a devious prince become the next High King of Faerie.
Faerie bargains are not easily broken. Elora has decided to stay in Faerie to help Prince Brannick become High King. With the element of surprise on their side, they only have to hide their sword training lessons until the last phase of testing.
But Brannick is ruled by a bargain that could ruin everything. Queen Alessandra is beginning to remember her history with the prince. With one word, she could force him to lose the testing and give up his freedom forever.
With a growing reputation, Elora’s anonymity in Faerie is shrinking fast. Her sisters are safe in the mortal realm, but she is desperate to help Brannick win the throne.
If he doesn’t, any number of fae could capture Elora. Or even worse… her sisters.
🤔🧐🤯MY THOUGHTS:🤯🧐🤔
What a cliffhanger this ended on. Things do not look good for our MFC, Elora.
She wants to stay in Faerie so badly. She and Prince Brannick are in love. She has to find a way to break his vow to Queen Alessandra so that they can be together. Faerie isn’t safe for her though because she’s only a mortal.
Queen Alessandra gives a pink shard to Elora so that Elora can end her mortal life and become full Fae. Elora does have some Fae blood but no one has ever survived using a pink shard. A mortal becomes too overwrought when experiencing the emotions of their entire life. Especially since the shard magnifies those emotions.
Can Elora survive? Probably not. What will her sacrifice do to her sisters and to Brannick?
RATING KEY:
🌟 Stars - based on the overall plot and theme or idea of the book
❤️🩹 Emotions - based on how emotional I got while reading
🥰 Romance - based on how well I got invested in the love story aspect
🌶️ Spice - based on how the sex scenes were portrayed and written as well as the number of sex scenes
🔎 Mystery - based on how well it kept me guessing who, how and why
😰 Scared/Anxious - based on how scared or anxious the book made me while reading
🎭 Comedy/Tragedy based on if I laughed or if there was a tragic event and how it affected me. I will mark the Masks with either a C or T to indicate Comedy or Tragedy
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 17, 2021
Thank you to the author for sending me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is the sequel to the whimsical Court of Bitter Thorn by Kay L Moody. I absolutely loved the first book, so was excited to get an early copy of Castle of Bitter Thorn and it did not disappoint. While there were a few parts in the first half that seemed a bit slow, I thoroughly enjoyed the second half and overall the book was a magical adventure. The characters develop even more and I loved the simmering romantic tension. Elora and Brannick continue their fight to ensure the land doesn't fall into the hands of an evil ruler, even as they struggle with their own growing bond and the implications it presents. This book brought out more of the side characters and I loved that I got to learn more about their past. Out of all the characters, my favorite is Blaz. I do have a soft spot for animals in books, so I wasn't surprised when he stole my heart. His devotion to protect and love his people was a breath of fresh air. Love that fur baby!
The ending brought a few surprising twists that left me reeling and wanting the next book. Can't wait to find out what happens next!
This is the sequel to the whimsical Court of Bitter Thorn by Kay L Moody. I absolutely loved the first book, so was excited to get an early copy of Castle of Bitter Thorn and it did not disappoint. While there were a few parts in the first half that seemed a bit slow, I thoroughly enjoyed the second half and overall the book was a magical adventure. The characters develop even more and I loved the simmering romantic tension. Elora and Brannick continue their fight to ensure the land doesn't fall into the hands of an evil ruler, even as they struggle with their own growing bond and the implications it presents. This book brought out more of the side characters and I loved that I got to learn more about their past. Out of all the characters, my favorite is Blaz. I do have a soft spot for animals in books, so I wasn't surprised when he stole my heart. His devotion to protect and love his people was a breath of fresh air. Love that fur baby!
The ending brought a few surprising twists that left me reeling and wanting the next book. Can't wait to find out what happens next!
May 30, 2022
4 Stars ✨
This was a fun read! Sweet and magical YA fantasy. Definitely better than the first. I love vivid magical worlds like this - full of faerie, fairies, sprites, brownies etc. It was simple and light, you don’t have to think too hard , just enjoy the world build and get lost in the pages in the land of the Fae.
This was a fun read! Sweet and magical YA fantasy. Definitely better than the first. I love vivid magical worlds like this - full of faerie, fairies, sprites, brownies etc. It was simple and light, you don’t have to think too hard , just enjoy the world build and get lost in the pages in the land of the Fae.
January 8, 2021
While I loved Court of Bitter Thorn, Castle of Bitter Thorn was on a whole different level. Elora was a completely evolved person in this book. She grew so much and became even more of a beloved character.
After the end of Court of Bitter Thorn, we are left with the knowledge that Queen Alessandra has Prince Brannick under and enchantment that he is unable to break. And it is heartbreaking. Based on what happens when he touches Elora, we know that he has definitive feelings for her. But he refuses to acknowledge those feelings and shuts down completely around her.
With the testing approaching, Elora is obligated to stay in Faerie for its duration. And, once again, she takes it upon herself to make a side bargain with another fae. This time it is Queen Alessandra herself, but with the purpose of freeing Brannick of his enchantments.
Elora finds some new and unknown family in Faerie while still longing so much for the sisters she has left in the mortal realm. She truly struggles with her desire to spend her time in this magical place knowing that her sisters are still home and away from her. She also learns some serious truths about what happened to her parents.
I absolutely loved the progression of the unique bond between Elora and Brannick in this book. This installment of the series is truly something to behold and I have purposely held so very much of what happens in this book out of my review because it needs to be experienced personally.
After the end of Court of Bitter Thorn, we are left with the knowledge that Queen Alessandra has Prince Brannick under and enchantment that he is unable to break. And it is heartbreaking. Based on what happens when he touches Elora, we know that he has definitive feelings for her. But he refuses to acknowledge those feelings and shuts down completely around her.
With the testing approaching, Elora is obligated to stay in Faerie for its duration. And, once again, she takes it upon herself to make a side bargain with another fae. This time it is Queen Alessandra herself, but with the purpose of freeing Brannick of his enchantments.
Elora finds some new and unknown family in Faerie while still longing so much for the sisters she has left in the mortal realm. She truly struggles with her desire to spend her time in this magical place knowing that her sisters are still home and away from her. She also learns some serious truths about what happened to her parents.
I absolutely loved the progression of the unique bond between Elora and Brannick in this book. This installment of the series is truly something to behold and I have purposely held so very much of what happens in this book out of my review because it needs to be experienced personally.
June 9, 2021
This is gonna be a hard review to write. I really wanted to love this. And on the paper? I should. It has devious fae who use bargains and vows to their advantage, it has wonderous courts to explore, different exciting creatures, and a forbidden romance plot.
And yet ...
We continue where we left off in book one. Elora could go home but chose to help Prince Brannick with the tournament. He can't touch her because of his bargain and Queen Alessandra begins to suspect something. I was intrigued by all of this.
There are a lot of things happening in Castle of Bitter Thorn, lots of unexpected moments but the thing is, they all feel kind of disconnected.
In theory, all of these new plot points should have been engaging but actually, I felt like I missed a bit in between. Nothing flowed together or build on each other. Now, don't get me wrong, all those things served a purpose, to explore the world, to learn more about Queen Alessandra's schemes and her character, etc. but they still needed some more thread to pull them all together. In some parts, I felt a bit like reading a very elaborate outline instead of the final draft. It was too quick and disjointed. A bit too episodical.
And that got to me, because again, on paper I should have loved this book.
But there were also some scenes where the full potential of this series shown through, moments that moved me or made me smile! Those scenes were worth it.
I enjoyed getting to know the characters better and I found that the quiet scenes, where not a lot was happening besides the characters talking to each other and getting to know each other more, were my favourite scenes. Hands down. Kay L Moody has beautiful writing during those quieter times.
My favourite character in this sequel was probably Vesper and I hope I get to see more of him in the third book!
The storyline with Elora and her emotions was quite cool! It was a little rushed, but that may just be my personal preference for really character-focused stories with an internal focus. But all in all, it was quite interesting to read about and I liked how it messed with the tournament.
The development of the relationship between Elora and Brannick was also very well done and I'm curious to see how it evolves after that ending!
Because if you couldn't tell earlier, I'm invested and definitely gonna continue with the next book soon.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
And yet ...
We continue where we left off in book one. Elora could go home but chose to help Prince Brannick with the tournament. He can't touch her because of his bargain and Queen Alessandra begins to suspect something. I was intrigued by all of this.
There are a lot of things happening in Castle of Bitter Thorn, lots of unexpected moments but the thing is, they all feel kind of disconnected.
In theory, all of these new plot points should have been engaging but actually, I felt like I missed a bit in between. Nothing flowed together or build on each other. Now, don't get me wrong, all those things served a purpose, to explore the world, to learn more about Queen Alessandra's schemes and her character, etc. but they still needed some more thread to pull them all together. In some parts, I felt a bit like reading a very elaborate outline instead of the final draft. It was too quick and disjointed. A bit too episodical.
And that got to me, because again, on paper I should have loved this book.
But there were also some scenes where the full potential of this series shown through, moments that moved me or made me smile! Those scenes were worth it.
I enjoyed getting to know the characters better and I found that the quiet scenes, where not a lot was happening besides the characters talking to each other and getting to know each other more, were my favourite scenes. Hands down. Kay L Moody has beautiful writing during those quieter times.
My favourite character in this sequel was probably Vesper and I hope I get to see more of him in the third book!
The storyline with Elora and her emotions was quite cool! It was a little rushed, but that may just be my personal preference for really character-focused stories with an internal focus. But all in all, it was quite interesting to read about and I liked how it messed with the tournament.
The development of the relationship between Elora and Brannick was also very well done and I'm curious to see how it evolves after that ending!
Because if you couldn't tell earlier, I'm invested and definitely gonna continue with the next book soon.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 24, 2021
after having read the 3rd one already, i can confidently say this is the best book so far in the series. There were no slow moments, and the characters were all enjoyable.
my favourite character is vesper, i found his relationship with elora very entertaining. his personality makes him a fun character. by the end of this book, i was warming up to brannick a lot more than i did previously. i know they’ve got romance going, and i kinda shipped it in the last book, but it seems like they’ve back peddled a lot. they hardly even talk to each other.
the plot in this book was a lot more intense. the stakes were higher, and it was more adventurous than previously.
overall, 5/5, and i need to learn how to properly write a review for something i love.
my favourite character is vesper, i found his relationship with elora very entertaining. his personality makes him a fun character. by the end of this book, i was warming up to brannick a lot more than i did previously. i know they’ve got romance going, and i kinda shipped it in the last book, but it seems like they’ve back peddled a lot. they hardly even talk to each other.
the plot in this book was a lot more intense. the stakes were higher, and it was more adventurous than previously.
overall, 5/5, and i need to learn how to properly write a review for something i love.
May 30, 2021
Better than the first!
I really enjoyed the first book of this series, but the second is even better—a true 5-star read. It’s an adventurous page-turner with excellent worldbuilding and sweet, smoldering, frustrating romance that I’m certain will turn into an HEA by the end of the series. The love story Elora and Brannick have is worth suffering for! Really, really enjoyed this one, and I’ve already started the third book of the series.
I really enjoyed the first book of this series, but the second is even better—a true 5-star read. It’s an adventurous page-turner with excellent worldbuilding and sweet, smoldering, frustrating romance that I’m certain will turn into an HEA by the end of the series. The love story Elora and Brannick have is worth suffering for! Really, really enjoyed this one, and I’ve already started the third book of the series.
January 12, 2021
Castle of Bitter Thorn is an entertaining sequel to Court of Bitter Thorn. It picks up where the first book left off and follows Elora as she tries to help Brannick win the crown and break the curse that binds him.
Elora is a great protagonist. Richly layered and dynamic, Elora is a series of contradictions. She is brave yet vulnerable, confident and unsure, grief-stricken yet hopeful. I love how richly developed her character is and that she shows such a wide variety of emotions.
Elora, who has longed for adventure, finally begins to understand the nature of her wanderlust, which is fascinating. This was a surprising and unanticipated revelation that connects Elora to other characters in the Faerie world. These experiences and connections are new and unexpected, and her myriad of emotions reflects her struggle as she learns to navigate the complex world of the Faerie.
On top of dealing with that, Elora desperately misses and wants to protect her sisters. She also mourns the loss of her beloved parents. The grief is overwhelming at times, and Elora struggles to manage her feelings while also traversing the Faerie world.
Brannick also continues to intrigue me. He is aloof and mysterious, a man with a solitary disposition that struggles to trust. Who can blame him? Bound to a manipulative and cruel, power-hungry woman, Brannick has no control over his life. This book really highlights just how much power the Queen has over Brannick, and it’s heart-breaking. It definitely explains his attitude and outlook on life more, as well as his grim determination to gain the throne. I love his dark and brooding persona and am hopeful that we’ll see more glimpses of Brannick with his guard down in future books.
I’m interested in learning more about some of the other elusive and mysterious characters as well and am hopeful that we’ll find out more about them too. Sprites, mermaids, dryads, and other fairies all have fascinating stories, and the sub-plots involving these characters are as intriguing as the main plot. What I like is that you never know who is truly good and who has untrustworthy motives. There are so many shades of grey in this world, and I can’t wait to learn who really has Brannick and Elora’s best interests at heart.
The romance definitely picks up in this story, especially in comparison to the first book. Elora and Brannick resist their feelings for a variety of reasons, but it proves impossible. Because of the curse, Elora and Brannick cannot touch, and this lack of physical connection builds the romantic tension immensely. I enjoyed their forbidden love story and am hoping that they can find a way to be together, even though the curse on Brannick prohibits it.
Another aspect of Moody’s stories that I always enjoy is the abundance of unexpected twists and turns. Though the story contains many traditional literary tropes like forbidden romance, completing three challenging tasks, and found families, there are many new and intriguing elements to keep you guessing. Political intrigue, nefarious characters, and dangerous plots make for a fun and suspenseful read. Plus, that shocking cliffhanger ending left me stunned!!!
Overall, I thought it was an entertaining read and a great addition to the series. I can’t wait to find out what happens next. Thanks so much to the author and Marten Press for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
Elora is a great protagonist. Richly layered and dynamic, Elora is a series of contradictions. She is brave yet vulnerable, confident and unsure, grief-stricken yet hopeful. I love how richly developed her character is and that she shows such a wide variety of emotions.
Elora, who has longed for adventure, finally begins to understand the nature of her wanderlust, which is fascinating. This was a surprising and unanticipated revelation that connects Elora to other characters in the Faerie world. These experiences and connections are new and unexpected, and her myriad of emotions reflects her struggle as she learns to navigate the complex world of the Faerie.
On top of dealing with that, Elora desperately misses and wants to protect her sisters. She also mourns the loss of her beloved parents. The grief is overwhelming at times, and Elora struggles to manage her feelings while also traversing the Faerie world.
Brannick also continues to intrigue me. He is aloof and mysterious, a man with a solitary disposition that struggles to trust. Who can blame him? Bound to a manipulative and cruel, power-hungry woman, Brannick has no control over his life. This book really highlights just how much power the Queen has over Brannick, and it’s heart-breaking. It definitely explains his attitude and outlook on life more, as well as his grim determination to gain the throne. I love his dark and brooding persona and am hopeful that we’ll see more glimpses of Brannick with his guard down in future books.
I’m interested in learning more about some of the other elusive and mysterious characters as well and am hopeful that we’ll find out more about them too. Sprites, mermaids, dryads, and other fairies all have fascinating stories, and the sub-plots involving these characters are as intriguing as the main plot. What I like is that you never know who is truly good and who has untrustworthy motives. There are so many shades of grey in this world, and I can’t wait to learn who really has Brannick and Elora’s best interests at heart.
The romance definitely picks up in this story, especially in comparison to the first book. Elora and Brannick resist their feelings for a variety of reasons, but it proves impossible. Because of the curse, Elora and Brannick cannot touch, and this lack of physical connection builds the romantic tension immensely. I enjoyed their forbidden love story and am hoping that they can find a way to be together, even though the curse on Brannick prohibits it.
Another aspect of Moody’s stories that I always enjoy is the abundance of unexpected twists and turns. Though the story contains many traditional literary tropes like forbidden romance, completing three challenging tasks, and found families, there are many new and intriguing elements to keep you guessing. Political intrigue, nefarious characters, and dangerous plots make for a fun and suspenseful read. Plus, that shocking cliffhanger ending left me stunned!!!
Overall, I thought it was an entertaining read and a great addition to the series. I can’t wait to find out what happens next. Thanks so much to the author and Marten Press for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
March 4, 2022
4.5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
After I loved the first book SO much, I was really looking to the sequel in this wonderful fantasy adventure and it did not disappoint.
Again, Kay L Moody was able to transport me into a different world and let me forget about my own world for a short while.
The writing still captured me completely, I was still able to connect with the characters, I found new depths in the characters' personalities and I was looking forward to each and every scene including our brooding fae prince. <3
The only thing missing for this book to get a full 5 star rating (and I know that is probably a little mean from my side, because the storyline literally prevented that, but I just wanted it so bad) was a little more romance. And there was some GREAT anticipation and the emotions that were shown between the pages were fantastic. There were so many sparks and so much longing. Now, I do know (as I said) that it just wasn't possible because of the actual storyline, but I'm thinking that the wait will most likely be rewarded in book 3???❤️❤️❤️
Even if not, I am VERY much looking forward to the next installment in the story, because honestly these books a brilliantly written, are super fast paced and they just suck you in! :))
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
After I loved the first book SO much, I was really looking to the sequel in this wonderful fantasy adventure and it did not disappoint.
Again, Kay L Moody was able to transport me into a different world and let me forget about my own world for a short while.
The writing still captured me completely, I was still able to connect with the characters, I found new depths in the characters' personalities and I was looking forward to each and every scene including our brooding fae prince. <3
The only thing missing for this book to get a full 5 star rating (and I know that is probably a little mean from my side, because the storyline literally prevented that, but I just wanted it so bad) was a little more romance. And there was some GREAT anticipation and the emotions that were shown between the pages were fantastic. There were so many sparks and so much longing. Now, I do know (as I said) that it just wasn't possible because of the actual storyline, but I'm thinking that the wait will most likely be rewarded in book 3???❤️❤️❤️
Even if not, I am VERY much looking forward to the next installment in the story, because honestly these books a brilliantly written, are super fast paced and they just suck you in! :))
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 25, 2022
I know I'm only two books in, but I love this series so much!
Elora is now firmly on Prince Brannick's side against the evil queen who wants all of Faerie to herself. They just don't know quite what to do with each other after he was forced to confess his feelings at the end of book one and is none to happy about it. Elora is convinced she would never do something so dumb as fall in love back, though.
Five great things about this book:
1. The dynamic. Brannick's doing his best to be his normal aloof self, but Elora and I have already seen his cards on the table.
2. The chemistry. Especially since they cannot touch.
3. The bargains, enchantments, vows, and rules that control the Faerie and its residents.
4. Much out-clevering based on the above.
5. Learning more about the side-characters and just how evil the villains are.
Note to more sensitive readers: there really isn't anything bad in here that would have traumatized younger me. It is a delightfully innocent series so far. Some fantasy violence.
If you like fae, fantasy, slow burn romance, and YA that actually feels like YA, this one is for you!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review first published on my blog: https://agencyofbooksandspies.blogspo...
Elora is now firmly on Prince Brannick's side against the evil queen who wants all of Faerie to herself. They just don't know quite what to do with each other after he was forced to confess his feelings at the end of book one and is none to happy about it. Elora is convinced she would never do something so dumb as fall in love back, though.
Five great things about this book:
1. The dynamic. Brannick's doing his best to be his normal aloof self, but Elora and I have already seen his cards on the table.
2. The chemistry. Especially since they cannot touch.
3. The bargains, enchantments, vows, and rules that control the Faerie and its residents.
4. Much out-clevering based on the above.
5. Learning more about the side-characters and just how evil the villains are.
Note to more sensitive readers: there really isn't anything bad in here that would have traumatized younger me. It is a delightfully innocent series so far. Some fantasy violence.
If you like fae, fantasy, slow burn romance, and YA that actually feels like YA, this one is for you!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review first published on my blog: https://agencyofbooksandspies.blogspo...
May 2, 2021
HO.LY. CRAP.
Do you ever have that thing where you forget JUST how amazing something/someone is? Like, you remember that you liked it or that you enjoyed someone's company, but it isn't until you experience it/them again that you are reminded just how stunningly amazing it/they are?
That's what this book did for me. I love Kay, but holy crap, I apparently forgot just how STUNNING she is with her writing and storytelling until I jumped into this book. (It's been a few months since I last had my Kay L. Moody fix!) I am absolutely floored. The story is AMAZING. The depth in this book!!! The characters, the story, the WORLD!
Long story short, I am obsessed. Fae weren't really my thing before this series, but Kay has definitely instilled a passion for the trope for me. Or it's just for these books- I suppose that remains to be seen if I branch out to other fae books and find myself disappointed that they aren't like the Fae of Bitter Thorn!
I've already been encouraging people to read her books, but at this point I've probably become the crazed lady who's shoving the book into your hands and not letting you do anything but open it up and start reading lol.
Buy it. Read it. Become obsessed with it!
Do you ever have that thing where you forget JUST how amazing something/someone is? Like, you remember that you liked it or that you enjoyed someone's company, but it isn't until you experience it/them again that you are reminded just how stunningly amazing it/they are?
That's what this book did for me. I love Kay, but holy crap, I apparently forgot just how STUNNING she is with her writing and storytelling until I jumped into this book. (It's been a few months since I last had my Kay L. Moody fix!) I am absolutely floored. The story is AMAZING. The depth in this book!!! The characters, the story, the WORLD!
Long story short, I am obsessed. Fae weren't really my thing before this series, but Kay has definitely instilled a passion for the trope for me. Or it's just for these books- I suppose that remains to be seen if I branch out to other fae books and find myself disappointed that they aren't like the Fae of Bitter Thorn!
I've already been encouraging people to read her books, but at this point I've probably become the crazed lady who's shoving the book into your hands and not letting you do anything but open it up and start reading lol.
Buy it. Read it. Become obsessed with it!
November 25, 2021
Five stars for having the most romantic scene out of any book I have ever read and they didn't even touch the whole book. No kidding, my eyes had tears in them because I found it so lovely.
The two leads Brannick and Elora also have this really cute relationship where they tease each other for having feelings for each other.
Elora: HaHa you have feelings for me
Brannick: Eww, so what? You have feelings for me too
Elora: Gross, you're right we're so embarrassing
(a reader's impression of their banter)
Might take a break from the series before reading the other two books, but they're waiting on my shelf.
The two leads Brannick and Elora also have this really cute relationship where they tease each other for having feelings for each other.
Elora: HaHa you have feelings for me
Brannick: Eww, so what? You have feelings for me too
Elora: Gross, you're right we're so embarrassing
(a reader's impression of their banter)
Might take a break from the series before reading the other two books, but they're waiting on my shelf.
January 19, 2021
Let me start by saying that I’m not sure how I can wait for the next installment of this story - the ending of this one made my jaw drop.
The world-building in this one is not as complex as in the first book, but that is only because it was done so well in book 1 that it isn’t as necessary in this one. I appreciated that the author didn’t waste time repeating what has already been established. Instead, this one merely expands on what we already know of Faerie in this series. I personally think it was handled almost perfectly.
The art of the crafting of a bargain are still center stage - and really brings to light the power of words spoken vs words left unsaid. Honestly, out of all the Fae stories I’ve read (which is a lot), Kay L. Moody does the best job at portraying this aspect of a Fae story.
Elora continues to be strong willed and as stubborn as they come. I absolutely LOVE her! This book delves into the slow burn romance between Elora and Brannick, which evolves in a way that both broke my heart at times and filled me with hope.
I was already a fan of Bitter Thorn but this story just made me a super fan I think. I just loved everything about this one. Most definitely will be adding it to my shelves once I can get my hands on the paper back.
Thank you to the author for an Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for my honest review.
The world-building in this one is not as complex as in the first book, but that is only because it was done so well in book 1 that it isn’t as necessary in this one. I appreciated that the author didn’t waste time repeating what has already been established. Instead, this one merely expands on what we already know of Faerie in this series. I personally think it was handled almost perfectly.
The art of the crafting of a bargain are still center stage - and really brings to light the power of words spoken vs words left unsaid. Honestly, out of all the Fae stories I’ve read (which is a lot), Kay L. Moody does the best job at portraying this aspect of a Fae story.
Elora continues to be strong willed and as stubborn as they come. I absolutely LOVE her! This book delves into the slow burn romance between Elora and Brannick, which evolves in a way that both broke my heart at times and filled me with hope.
I was already a fan of Bitter Thorn but this story just made me a super fan I think. I just loved everything about this one. Most definitely will be adding it to my shelves once I can get my hands on the paper back.
Thank you to the author for an Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for my honest review.
January 10, 2021
I recieved an ARC copy for my honest review. This book had so much action and adventure. It kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time and I really cant wait for more of this story and others from the author. If you love the world of Faerie you will definitely love this story.
January 27, 2021
This was entertaining and enjoyable. I hate Queen Alessandra with a passion for everything she’s done to Prince Brannick. Ansel is cringe worthy 😖 He made my skin crawl everytime he made an appearance. Elora and Brannick FTW 🙌🏻
October 27, 2021
4 stars
After reading this second installment in the fae of Bitter Thorn series, I decided to push my rating up to 4 stars. Here's why.
🥀
As I expected, the story got so much better and more intricate. I enjoyed Elora's character much better in this book than in the first, although there were still a few moments where I wondered why she didn't notice some details (like when everyone gasps at "Theobald"–and she doesn't react...). I feel like I got to know her more and I related to her more as well. I also liked Brannick even more in this one. He was already the authentic fae prince in the first one but I feel like he really took shape in this installment. I won't say anything about Blaz cus he was already top notch in the first book 🙈. I really loved that the treacherous nature of Faerie materialised really strongly in this book, more so than in the first I feel.
There was a moment in the book when Elora suffered deeply and I found myself with tears in my eyes, something relatively rare for me, so I always praise authors when they manage to do that...
🏰
The ending was such a cliffhanger though, my heart ached but thankfully I don't have to wait for the next book 😅
🥀
Content warning:
Like the first book in the series, this book was squeaky clean. There were some hints at light innuendo coming from an evil character but honestly, it's reaaaaaally light, so much you might miss it. The romance is there, and strong between our main characters but because they can't touch for reasons you know there wasn't even a kiss and it remains pure (awesome! :)). Violence-wise, there were no gorish images or such, just a few battles with very little mentions of injuries and death.
🏰
Overall, this was a wonderful read which I heartily recommend to anyone feeling like reading about CLEAN fae stories, fae courts, adventure and romance!
After reading this second installment in the fae of Bitter Thorn series, I decided to push my rating up to 4 stars. Here's why.
🥀
As I expected, the story got so much better and more intricate. I enjoyed Elora's character much better in this book than in the first, although there were still a few moments where I wondered why she didn't notice some details (like when everyone gasps at "Theobald"–and she doesn't react...). I feel like I got to know her more and I related to her more as well. I also liked Brannick even more in this one. He was already the authentic fae prince in the first one but I feel like he really took shape in this installment. I won't say anything about Blaz cus he was already top notch in the first book 🙈. I really loved that the treacherous nature of Faerie materialised really strongly in this book, more so than in the first I feel.
There was a moment in the book when Elora suffered deeply and I found myself with tears in my eyes, something relatively rare for me, so I always praise authors when they manage to do that...
🏰
The ending was such a cliffhanger though, my heart ached but thankfully I don't have to wait for the next book 😅
🥀
Content warning:
Like the first book in the series, this book was squeaky clean. There were some hints at light innuendo coming from an evil character but honestly, it's reaaaaaally light, so much you might miss it. The romance is there, and strong between our main characters but because they can't touch for reasons you know there wasn't even a kiss and it remains pure (awesome! :)). Violence-wise, there were no gorish images or such, just a few battles with very little mentions of injuries and death.
🏰
Overall, this was a wonderful read which I heartily recommend to anyone feeling like reading about CLEAN fae stories, fae courts, adventure and romance!
January 11, 2021
I was given an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
*Contains Spoilers *
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The story continues with Elora trying to come to terms with her grief and her emotions. All the while, Brannick's struggling to become king and to survive the last two tournaments.
Elora is such a flat character, there's was no real growth besides that in her head. She tells us her emotions are different and that she will handle and live with her grief better, but we don't see it. The fact that she somehow wins every tournament for Brannick is also super annoying. The second tournament was a speech and she spoke a paragraph, that was bland and cliche, but apparently it brought Fae to tears. Mind you the fae are emotionless and are even at times grossed out about the display of emotion, this just did not make sense.
The world building was partial to say the least and the sub characters have one facial expression, eyebrow raised. No real connections are built between characters. Not even the love between Elora and Brannick or affections between Elora and Vesper. I have no real interest in what comes of any of these relationships.
The story has interesting ideas but non of it felt or read complete. I get this is a series but even using the excuse of, well this is just the second book, doesn't make this book better.
The whole series would have been better off as either a stand alone book or it had to have a lot more work and details before being released. There is a very small chance I will read the next one.
⭐ I finished the read.
⭐⭐ It held some of my attentions.
*Contains Spoilers *
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The story continues with Elora trying to come to terms with her grief and her emotions. All the while, Brannick's struggling to become king and to survive the last two tournaments.
Elora is such a flat character, there's was no real growth besides that in her head. She tells us her emotions are different and that she will handle and live with her grief better, but we don't see it. The fact that she somehow wins every tournament for Brannick is also super annoying. The second tournament was a speech and she spoke a paragraph, that was bland and cliche, but apparently it brought Fae to tears. Mind you the fae are emotionless and are even at times grossed out about the display of emotion, this just did not make sense.
The world building was partial to say the least and the sub characters have one facial expression, eyebrow raised. No real connections are built between characters. Not even the love between Elora and Brannick or affections between Elora and Vesper. I have no real interest in what comes of any of these relationships.
The story has interesting ideas but non of it felt or read complete. I get this is a series but even using the excuse of, well this is just the second book, doesn't make this book better.
The whole series would have been better off as either a stand alone book or it had to have a lot more work and details before being released. There is a very small chance I will read the next one.
⭐ I finished the read.
⭐⭐ It held some of my attentions.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 15, 2021
**I received a free copy of this book via BookSirens and am voluntarily leaving a review.**
The second book of the series was a mix of disappointments and interesting reveals, though more of the former than the latter. The repetitive thoughts of Elora on her imminent departure from Faerie and how she was restricted from doing anything - not go outside, not enjoy, not fly blah blah made it all humdrum and I jumped a lot in those parts. I was also hoping to find more about her sister, Chloe, especially how she had kinda prophesied the first book in her poem in the start - no luck there though.
There were indeed a couple of good unveilings, like Elora's fae roots (which were hinted at in book 1) and her relation to Vesper.
Towards the end, there came one scene, that made me like her character, so much more. She got stuck in a crisis, and not only did she keep all cool and get herself out, but she helped other victims escape as well. That was a really cool feat. Now, Brannick, I did not like much in this one. Despite being a central character, he strayed on the sidelines, as everything was always happening to him. For such a powerful fae, he was never in control anywhere much.
What's more, all the sword lessons Elora taught him (and if you remember, that was the reason she was brought into Faerie in the first place), turned out to be useless in the end. Duh!
Let's see how the next two books resolve the secrets that have piled up so far.
The second book of the series was a mix of disappointments and interesting reveals, though more of the former than the latter. The repetitive thoughts of Elora on her imminent departure from Faerie and how she was restricted from doing anything - not go outside, not enjoy, not fly blah blah made it all humdrum and I jumped a lot in those parts. I was also hoping to find more about her sister, Chloe, especially how she had kinda prophesied the first book in her poem in the start - no luck there though.
There were indeed a couple of good unveilings, like Elora's fae roots (which were hinted at in book 1) and her relation to Vesper.
Towards the end, there came one scene, that made me like her character, so much more. She got stuck in a crisis, and not only did she keep all cool and get herself out, but she helped other victims escape as well. That was a really cool feat. Now, Brannick, I did not like much in this one. Despite being a central character, he strayed on the sidelines, as everything was always happening to him. For such a powerful fae, he was never in control anywhere much.
What's more, all the sword lessons Elora taught him (and if you remember, that was the reason she was brought into Faerie in the first place), turned out to be useless in the end. Duh!
Let's see how the next two books resolve the secrets that have piled up so far.
July 7, 2021
After I finished the first book, I had hoped that the second one would be even better and I'm glad that it did not disappoint. It was fast-paced and action-packed with something unexpected happening every few pages.
I loved how Elora's character has developed since the first book and she has started taking charge of her own life. Brannick's coldness towards Elora did not bother me this time because I understood where he was coming from. He loved her but some complications stopped him from showing it. Their emotional struggles were expressed well by the author.
The supporting characters did a marvelous job like in the first book and I saw a new villain who was even more terrible than the earlier one. But it added more conflict to the story and made it quite interesting.
I don't think I've read a series before where the protagonists haven't come together in the first book itself, but the wait is going to make the moment even more amazing when it happens.
The ending was intense and I almost jumped out of my seat when it was over. I'm a bit relieved that the next book is out or that cliffhanger would have driven me crazy. This series is a must-read for all fantasy lovers.
I loved how Elora's character has developed since the first book and she has started taking charge of her own life. Brannick's coldness towards Elora did not bother me this time because I understood where he was coming from. He loved her but some complications stopped him from showing it. Their emotional struggles were expressed well by the author.
The supporting characters did a marvelous job like in the first book and I saw a new villain who was even more terrible than the earlier one. But it added more conflict to the story and made it quite interesting.
I don't think I've read a series before where the protagonists haven't come together in the first book itself, but the wait is going to make the moment even more amazing when it happens.
The ending was intense and I almost jumped out of my seat when it was over. I'm a bit relieved that the next book is out or that cliffhanger would have driven me crazy. This series is a must-read for all fantasy lovers.
January 16, 2021
The second book of The Fae of Bitter Thorn series was just as beautiful as the first. Kay L. Moody's description of Faerie and world building was just as vibrant and vivid as ever. I loved seeing every little detail that Elora saw.
In this book we follow Elora as she helps Prince Brannick in the tournament to decide who shall be the High Ruler of Faerie. Elora must work with Prince Brannick to try to fend off the bargain he has with Queen Alessandra. Will the Queen remember the bargain she struck with Prince Brannick? Will she force him to do something he doesn't want to do?
Elora has bloomed as a character and I loved watching her grow from the beginning. She longs for adventure and finally finds it. I believe that the adventure she craved helped to shape her into the strong, courageous and clever girl she is in this book. I can't wait to see how much more she can evolve.
Prince Brannick is more standoffish in this book, you go back to disliking him. However, you know it's for a reason, yet you can't help wanting to yell at him. Throughout the storyline you do see him eventually shed the metaphorical thorns he has that protect his emotions. He lets in glimpses of fun every now and then. It's a side of Brannick I'd definitely like to see more of in the third book.
Castle of Bitter Thorn is filled with daring adventures, likable characters and cunning bargains. The pace of this story keeps going and there weren't any lulls. Once I started reading, I couldn't put it down. Moody did a fantastic job keeping the readers attention.
I'm looking forward to the third book in the series, Crown of Bitter Thorn. The wait will be tough! I want to see how everything comes together and what will happen to Faerie.
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
In this book we follow Elora as she helps Prince Brannick in the tournament to decide who shall be the High Ruler of Faerie. Elora must work with Prince Brannick to try to fend off the bargain he has with Queen Alessandra. Will the Queen remember the bargain she struck with Prince Brannick? Will she force him to do something he doesn't want to do?
Elora has bloomed as a character and I loved watching her grow from the beginning. She longs for adventure and finally finds it. I believe that the adventure she craved helped to shape her into the strong, courageous and clever girl she is in this book. I can't wait to see how much more she can evolve.
Prince Brannick is more standoffish in this book, you go back to disliking him. However, you know it's for a reason, yet you can't help wanting to yell at him. Throughout the storyline you do see him eventually shed the metaphorical thorns he has that protect his emotions. He lets in glimpses of fun every now and then. It's a side of Brannick I'd definitely like to see more of in the third book.
Castle of Bitter Thorn is filled with daring adventures, likable characters and cunning bargains. The pace of this story keeps going and there weren't any lulls. Once I started reading, I couldn't put it down. Moody did a fantastic job keeping the readers attention.
I'm looking forward to the third book in the series, Crown of Bitter Thorn. The wait will be tough! I want to see how everything comes together and what will happen to Faerie.
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 22, 2021
Book number two pretty much picks up where book one leaves off. This time though Elora has to help Prince Brannick with the second challenge, which means she has to give a speech in his favor and with the last challenge - the tournament.
Though Elora has a way more difficult task in front of her. She has to overcome the loss of her parents and separation from her sisters. Being in Faerie for so long has started to change her, she begins to feel different from her previous self and her feelings are starting to fade. In order to help the prince Elora is going to have to find a way to get back to the form she was before. It won't be easy, and it will be painful but does she have the ability to do it?
Throughout the second book the reader will witness a stronger, more determined Elora. You see her coming into her own and becoming more considerate and thoughtful of others that surround her as well as being more informed and learned of the ways in Faerie.
I feel that this book is more about her and her own personal journey than the others or even the challenges.It's all about her character development in this book and where she can/will go. She starts learning about her ancestors and some things from her past from another character in the book.
we see her struggle to learn how to how to fly and to overcome her feelings. She also now has the chance to spend a little more alone time with Prince Brannick. She gets a glimpse of the real him and she is drawn to him more and more.
The book is very well written, the characters are absolutely glorious, and the pace of the story is exquisite. This book is packed full of twists and turns that will make you keep reading until the end.
Though Elora has a way more difficult task in front of her. She has to overcome the loss of her parents and separation from her sisters. Being in Faerie for so long has started to change her, she begins to feel different from her previous self and her feelings are starting to fade. In order to help the prince Elora is going to have to find a way to get back to the form she was before. It won't be easy, and it will be painful but does she have the ability to do it?
Throughout the second book the reader will witness a stronger, more determined Elora. You see her coming into her own and becoming more considerate and thoughtful of others that surround her as well as being more informed and learned of the ways in Faerie.
I feel that this book is more about her and her own personal journey than the others or even the challenges.It's all about her character development in this book and where she can/will go. She starts learning about her ancestors and some things from her past from another character in the book.
we see her struggle to learn how to how to fly and to overcome her feelings. She also now has the chance to spend a little more alone time with Prince Brannick. She gets a glimpse of the real him and she is drawn to him more and more.
The book is very well written, the characters are absolutely glorious, and the pace of the story is exquisite. This book is packed full of twists and turns that will make you keep reading until the end.
January 22, 2021
I adore Blaz, Brannicks wolf.
Elora is defiant as usual 😆
She's dealing with a lot of heartache from losing her family. She's struggling because she wants to return to her sisters but she loves Faerie and her feelings for Brannick are growing. Loved the scene where they're practicing sword fighting in Brannicks room 💙⚔ Brannick is a brooding Prince but there's still hints of playfulness through the story.
I was really moved by the conversation with Vesper about his wife, Cosette. 😭
Queen Alessandra is such a good villian. She reminds me of the Evil Queen on Once Upon A Time.
Wonderful sequel all around!
Some of my favorite quotes 👇🏼
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"If he kept standing so close, she’d forget how to breathe."
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"At some point, her hands had left Blaz’s fur. Now they played with a piece of her own hair while her mouth dropped slightly. His stupid eyes had caught her attention again. No matter how she tried, she couldn’t look away. When he glanced toward her, a grin fell across his lips. He knew exactly the effect he was having. Even more infuriating, he liked it."
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"Tears of grief didn't feel the same as tears of pain. Though grief held pain, it was nothing like being sliced with a sword. Of the two, grief hurt worse. It came in a shadow wrapped in ice. It nibbled at defenses until there was nothing left to do except welcome it with open arms. And then it would crush those arms. Destroy them. It would crumble everything that kept it away from the heart and then it would crush that too."
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"This is your fault.” He huffed as he lifted his sword again. “I knew you would be trouble, and yet I brought you to Faerie anyway. Why did I do that?”
Elora is defiant as usual 😆
She's dealing with a lot of heartache from losing her family. She's struggling because she wants to return to her sisters but she loves Faerie and her feelings for Brannick are growing. Loved the scene where they're practicing sword fighting in Brannicks room 💙⚔ Brannick is a brooding Prince but there's still hints of playfulness through the story.
I was really moved by the conversation with Vesper about his wife, Cosette. 😭
Queen Alessandra is such a good villian. She reminds me of the Evil Queen on Once Upon A Time.
Wonderful sequel all around!
Some of my favorite quotes 👇🏼
.
"If he kept standing so close, she’d forget how to breathe."
.
"At some point, her hands had left Blaz’s fur. Now they played with a piece of her own hair while her mouth dropped slightly. His stupid eyes had caught her attention again. No matter how she tried, she couldn’t look away. When he glanced toward her, a grin fell across his lips. He knew exactly the effect he was having. Even more infuriating, he liked it."
.
"Tears of grief didn't feel the same as tears of pain. Though grief held pain, it was nothing like being sliced with a sword. Of the two, grief hurt worse. It came in a shadow wrapped in ice. It nibbled at defenses until there was nothing left to do except welcome it with open arms. And then it would crush those arms. Destroy them. It would crumble everything that kept it away from the heart and then it would crush that too."
.
"This is your fault.” He huffed as he lifted his sword again. “I knew you would be trouble, and yet I brought you to Faerie anyway. Why did I do that?”
January 31, 2021
After finishing the first book I couldn’t wait to start with the second book, and she delivered. After all the world building in the first book I expected some more action and that’s what we got. It is an amazing and wonderful sequel to the already amazing Court of Bitter Thorn. The growth Elora made in the first book keeps developing in this one, she is so adventurous and brave, so loving for her loved ones, willing to do anything to protect them. I love how Elora keeps being so real, even in the second book. She hasn’t developed to someone else, but a braver version of herself. She is still that vulnerable and unsure girl with hope.
I started loving Brannick more in the second book than I did in the first. He guides Elora in her bravery but they also have some sweet moments together, a romance building. Their attraction becomes inevitable and I love how it goes slow and steady, feeling very real.
Moody made this book into a lot of twists and turns, she makes it intriguing and lovable, mysterious to enjoy. I loved how all the elements came together and that she was able to keep me surprised. Every chapter she keeps me guessing for the next ones. She takes full advantage of the amazing world she spent so many pages building in the first book, it has been put to full use in this second book. You know there is a third book coming, and she will let you know by the end. She closes off on a cliffhanger that keeps you on the edge of your seat, I can’t wait to see what the third book will bring us.
I started loving Brannick more in the second book than I did in the first. He guides Elora in her bravery but they also have some sweet moments together, a romance building. Their attraction becomes inevitable and I love how it goes slow and steady, feeling very real.
Moody made this book into a lot of twists and turns, she makes it intriguing and lovable, mysterious to enjoy. I loved how all the elements came together and that she was able to keep me surprised. Every chapter she keeps me guessing for the next ones. She takes full advantage of the amazing world she spent so many pages building in the first book, it has been put to full use in this second book. You know there is a third book coming, and she will let you know by the end. She closes off on a cliffhanger that keeps you on the edge of your seat, I can’t wait to see what the third book will bring us.
February 9, 2021
I’m a little bit baffled by all the 5 star reviews because it feels like I somehow read a different book. This isn’t a bad addition to the series but it was pretty meh to me. The good parts: Elora is more confident in her life in Fairie and we get more info on what happened with her parents. I also liked the theme of how Elora dealt with her emotions/grief throughout the story. Other than that it felt like all the relationships remained stagnant or degraded from where they developed to in the last book. Her friendship with Lyren only got worse, her connection to Vesper came out of nowhere because of how little his character has been developed, and there were not many meaningful interactions with Brannick beyond him trying to keep Elora at arm’s length. I can’t even remember the name of the master builder because of how much he’s been left in the background. The parts about the high king competition were kind of a joke to read, particularly the speech component. Queen Alessandra delivers such an amazing speech that even Elora is sad when it ends but do we get to know a single word of it? No. Elora’s speech is so short and bad that even a 6th grader could come up with something more inspiring. Yet the emotion-hating Fae are brought to tears from it. That felt like incredibly lazy writing. It’s not great to include a speech contest in your story if you don’t actually want to write the speeches. My favorite part of book was Elora rescuing herself from Ansel. That felt like the most compelling writing in the book and I hope the author has more of it in the next one. I like this world and the direction the next book is appearing to go in so I’m going to keep this series on my TBR book calendar. It’s a quick read so I do recommend it if you have kindle unlimited.
June 7, 2024
After helping Prince Brannick win the first phase of testing to become the High King of Faerie, Elora continues training him in swordfighting. But meanwhile, the threat of Queen Alessandra of Fairfrost grows as she steals magic from other courts and begins to regain her memory of the bargain she has with Brannick. While Bitter Thorn's council and Elora attempt to get ready to defeat Queen Alessandra in phase two and three of the testing, Elora deals with the creepy advances of Ansel, a cohort of Alessandra's who wants to keep her as a human "pet" as well as her own grief and other emotions she hasn't confronted, including a growing affection for Faerie's would-be king.
As is typical in these fun YA fae romances, the stakes rise higher in this book. It is fast-pace and action packed, with plenty of sweet, romantic moments on the side. Brannick gets more character development, as do a couple of the side characters - Lyran and Vesper.
The writing isn't flawless, but it is good writing. Ms. Moody has come more into her own in this book and definitely seems to be more sure of herself. I enjoyed the book thoroughly, and devoured it in two days because I really wanted to know what would happen to Elora and Brannick. Since this book ends on a cliffhanger, I know I'll be hurrying to grab book three and find out what happens next. Thank you to BookSirens and Kay L. Moody for the free review copy. This is a voluntary review and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
As is typical in these fun YA fae romances, the stakes rise higher in this book. It is fast-pace and action packed, with plenty of sweet, romantic moments on the side. Brannick gets more character development, as do a couple of the side characters - Lyran and Vesper.
The writing isn't flawless, but it is good writing. Ms. Moody has come more into her own in this book and definitely seems to be more sure of herself. I enjoyed the book thoroughly, and devoured it in two days because I really wanted to know what would happen to Elora and Brannick. Since this book ends on a cliffhanger, I know I'll be hurrying to grab book three and find out what happens next. Thank you to BookSirens and Kay L. Moody for the free review copy. This is a voluntary review and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
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January 15, 2021I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I think this series is aimed towards early teens/tweens, somewhere between 9-13 where the high action/fast resolution stakes are a big draw. The language used is very easy to understand, and everything is very spelled out for that sort of readership.
Elora has accepted her time in Faery now that she knows she can re-enter the mortal world at the moment she left. She comes to learn some personal revelations in this one, and ultimately has to decide how to tackle them.
It has the same fast problem solving at the first book, where Elora shows her individual strength and manages to overcome any threat conniving fae throw her way.
It does have a cliff-hanger ending (which I think is pretty obvious how it will play out) but I did enjoy the suspense it leaves you on because of it.
I think this series is aimed towards early teens/tweens, somewhere between 9-13 where the high action/fast resolution stakes are a big draw. The language used is very easy to understand, and everything is very spelled out for that sort of readership.
Elora has accepted her time in Faery now that she knows she can re-enter the mortal world at the moment she left. She comes to learn some personal revelations in this one, and ultimately has to decide how to tackle them.
It has the same fast problem solving at the first book, where Elora shows her individual strength and manages to overcome any threat conniving fae throw her way.
It does have a cliff-hanger ending (which I think is pretty obvious how it will play out) but I did enjoy the suspense it leaves you on because of it.
January 15, 2021
I received a copy of this book from the author. This is my honest review.
I struggled with the first book of this series. While I enjoyed it, I wasn’t able to connect with Elora, so it made it hard to enjoy it as much as I had hoped.
That being said, Elora was a much enjoy character in this book. All the issues I had regarding her in the first book, are now gone, and I really enjoyed this story so much more! Elora has such great character development in the book, it was such a pleasure to read! She was brave, determined, and did everything in her power to save the prince.
I must say that small cliffhanger right at the end was torture! I cannot wait to see what happens on the next book!
I struggled with the first book of this series. While I enjoyed it, I wasn’t able to connect with Elora, so it made it hard to enjoy it as much as I had hoped.
That being said, Elora was a much enjoy character in this book. All the issues I had regarding her in the first book, are now gone, and I really enjoyed this story so much more! Elora has such great character development in the book, it was such a pleasure to read! She was brave, determined, and did everything in her power to save the prince.
I must say that small cliffhanger right at the end was torture! I cannot wait to see what happens on the next book!
July 6, 2021
Elora & Brannick
The story continues, book 2;
Notes 📝
Tournament, high king, scheming, more secrets, lost memories, ‘brother’?, family, friends, crazy stuff, helping has it’s price, deals,protection, no no nooooo freakin cliffhanger 🤨🤯😤📖 there goes my e-reader 🤣🤦🏼♀️
Although I hate cliffhangers, this book is very good, story building very intriguing and addictive and luckily I can continue tomorrow with the next book 🥳🤗. Loved it ❤️
Definitely a 5 star ⭐️ read
Genre; fantasy YA/NA, faeries.
The story continues, book 2;
Notes 📝
Tournament, high king, scheming, more secrets, lost memories, ‘brother’?, family, friends, crazy stuff, helping has it’s price, deals,protection, no no nooooo freakin cliffhanger 🤨🤯😤📖 there goes my e-reader 🤣🤦🏼♀️
Although I hate cliffhangers, this book is very good, story building very intriguing and addictive and luckily I can continue tomorrow with the next book 🥳🤗. Loved it ❤️
Definitely a 5 star ⭐️ read
Genre; fantasy YA/NA, faeries.
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