Curse of Thorns

Wicked Fae #2

by Stacey Trombley

The trials changed everything.
Before the trials I was Rev, the beloved prince of the Luminescent Court. Now I'm a bastard hiding in plain sight, not even sure I'm worthy of my title as prince.

Before the trials, Caelynn of the Shadow Court was my sworn enemy. But now that I know why I'm so drawn to her, she terrifies me more than she ever could as an enemy. Our intense friendship makes her all the more dangerous.

This time, it's the Schorchedland's turn to spill blood and expose terrible secrets.
Only one of us can enter through the cursed walls and return with the cure that will save the realm, but there are assassins out for both of our heads, and their reach doesn't stop once we pass the gates to the fae-hell.

It will take both of us to complete this impossible task. And that beautiful shadow fae I'd sworn to kill? She'll sacrifice anything to save me.

Even herself.

_________________________

Curse of Thorns is the anticpated second installment of the WICKED FAE series, a slow burn paranormal romance perfect for fans of Lindsey Hall, Audrey Grey and Holly Black,

Genres: Fantasy, Fae, Enemies To Lovers, Romance, Paranormal, Romantasy, Young Adult

298 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 1, 2021

About the author

Stacey Trombley is the author of several fantasy romance series including WICKED FAE and SHADOW HILLS ACADEMY. Her places to travel list is almost as long as her to-be-read list. Most recently, she spent 9 months living in a van with her family, traveling the US and Mexico. She has many more adventures in mind, both on Earth and in her imagination.
​

Follow her journey on Instagram and Tiktok @StaceyTrombleyAuthor and learn more about her books at www.StaceyTrombley.com

Reviews

[Koisty · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 Stag Stars ⭐
Spicy Level: 0/5 (Kissing is not spicy!)

So I can see why this series is considered bingeable because it is. Fast and easy to read and is primarily plot-focused. But there is still something about this book and the way it's written that leaves a sour taste in my mouth and I am not sure why I am crazy enough to continue to the next book besides the fact that THE PLOT IS FUCKING ADDICTING!

Don't read further if you don't want spoilers because I can't talk about WHY THIS BOOK isn't sitting right with me without DELVING into those....

So this starts a few months after the end of the first book. In a full copycat of Crown of Midnight, our girl Caelynn storms into the banquet hall of the Luminescent Court carrying the head of her would-be assassin. (I was seriously thinking I had picked up the wrong book for a moment there with all the similarities to COM) Anyway that is where the similarities end as we find out our wonderboy Rev cannot enter the Fae Hell and Caelynn (BECAUSE SHE LOVES HIM - WHERE THE HELL DID THIS COME FROM) has to help him.

So my main problem with this book (and series) is that conclusions are made or aspects inferred with VERY LITTLE buildup. The relationship between the two which was on a "friend" level is very quickly morphed into she loves him, but we are never shown this transition. There is a part when hardly anyone knows they are Fated Mates but Rev's father does. AND the gender swapping of the "main" villain(s) was annoying. I am still not sure if the Night Terror is female or male as they have been referred to as She and He NUMEROUS TIMES...

And quite frankly REV IS AN IDIOT... HE falls into the stupid trap of believing MISCOMMUNICATION and like a raging bull charging at a red flag, SEES RED and just fucks forward without actually stopping to think for a moment...

The only thing keeping me here is THE WORLD BUILDING is flipping fantastic and I cannot get enough - its SO UNIQUE and descriptive. I am hooked and just want to continue reading to see more of it and how the main plot unfolds...

This book was also a little more character-focused than book one as we got to see a little more internal dialogue which I liked given we didn't need to establish the characters anymore.

Overall I am still at a crossroads with this series, BUT I definitely liked this book better than book 1. I hope we get some spice in book 3 though as I NEED MORE THAN KISSING DAMMIT!

The Tropes:
▶ Friends to Enemies to Lovers
▶ Shadow Mommy and Light Daddy
▶ Fated Mates
▶ Dual POV

[Regina Blume · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐️ 3

I don’t know what it is about these books but the story has me totally hooked. Don’t get me wrong there’s a lot here that really doesn’t work for me but underneath all that the story keeps me reading.

The whole cast of characters act very immature and honestly if this was set in a high school it would read exactly the same. Being fae I know the author has stated they look much younger but we know our MC’s at least are both 30 years old we should not be seeing tantrums and the level of emotional immaturity that they have.

I’m all for both men and women being able to express their emotions without feeling shame but Rev is essentially a big toddler in this, he’s continuously crying, throwing things and pouting his way through the story. I don’t think I’ve ever been less invested in a MMC before.

Caelynn isn’t much better she’s constantly miserable and willingly sacrifices herself at every turn. Not in a ‘heroic save-the-world kind of way’ but in a ‘you really need therapy and to learn your own self-worth’ way.

The weak characters aside I really like the world and the story being told. It may not be the best writing but the twists and turns in the story really hooked me in as more of the bigger plot is revealed. The Schorchedlands is a really exciting setting for part of this story and I can’t wait to see what it still has in store for the next book.

[Karo · Rating 2 out of 5]

I don’t want to be that bitch, but this book needs an editor. Or seven. The amount of times I had to suffer through an internal monologue of either Caelynn hating herself and be willing to sacrifice her soul and heart to save her mate blah blah blah OR Rev hating his mate and wondering what feelings are real and how he can care for his brother’s murderer blah blah blah… it surely gives me a right to sue for the damage done to my brain.


The healing powers that make the main character moan in WAVES OF PLEASURE when she literally has a gaping hole in her chest? Not cool Miss author, not cool.

Also, Rev is a moron and he doesn’t deserve Caelynn. Dude get overrrrrr yourself oh my god.

[Kay Moody · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great continuation of the series! I loved seeing the change in Rev's character. They were thrust into such an unforgiving world, yet they managed to get through it. Sort of... 🤣 If you want a story like The Hunger Games but with magic and fae, then this is the series for you! :)

[H-e-l-e-n-a · Rating 3 out of 5]

Chica, pa' qué lo haces enojar???... Ya había caído. 🫤
Espero que no vuelvan a utilizar esa técnica. Se la perdono una vez, otra ya no. 🧐😆


📖
I cannot even explain the things that smile does to me. My bones melt, mind frozen, heart pattering. Tung tied.
_
My mate. My enemy. My heart, dark and broken. But mine all the same.

[Aizlynne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finished in one sitting because I love this series so much. Caelynn is self sacrificing to a fault here but I can't blame her. Reveln is so clueless at times I'd like to slap him. The chemistry continues to be amazing. I appreciate that the author can keep the story sizzling and interesting without resorting to being crass. I again found myself with huge anxiety for the characters. The writing was amazing, as always. Very few editing errors again. I can't wait for #3!

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sooooo Good!!!

I read this in about 24 hours cause I could not put it down. We are taken into the Fae hell realm and discover the story is far more complex and far reaching than anyone, even this reader, could have guessed. This kicked ass!!! I'll be looking forward to the final book to see how it all ends. Great story!!

[Toshita · Rating 2 out of 5]

Once again this book was pretty mid but the drama and plot just keep me reading. This one annoyed me because there was no consistency in how they referred to certain characters. Like the used both he and she to refer to this character but then it's like why didn't you just use they? Anyway that's not even my biggest issue. My biggest issue is the way the MCs went from being sort of allies to all of sudden being in love without us seeing any of that progression. This is honestly the worst kind of slow burn cause it took them two books to fall in love but I also didn't ever see them falling in love. Also Rev changes his mind more than a model changes clothes at a fashion show. This man is so easily influenced by what people tell him that he can go from falling in love to hating Caelynn in a matter of 5 minutes. He honestly has no ability to think for himself, I wonder how he has survived so long. All that being said I am going to be reading the next book.

[Mandi D Richards · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was amazing

I really liked the first book in this series, but this one was even better! I could not put it down. Warning it does end on a huge cliff hanger. I am now going to go crazy waiting for the next book. This was so good.

[BloodyKelpie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Curse of thorns

Damn Caelynn is awesome is this book , I’m serious she got in my nerves sometimes in the first book but I’m this one ? She accepted what she is and damn me to hell because the girl is soooooo damn powerful and now she owns her power hahaha I love she is more bloodthirsty too ... and Rev ? I’m loving this new Rev he finally most accepted they are mates and he doesn’t want to kill her so much like before he is less bitter too thank goddess , they are delvishly wicked now , loving this couple so muchhhh!!! I particularly like that Rev is sensible, normally male leads don’t cry or show their emotions much but Rev ? I’m not saying he is a cry baby , but we can see his feelings are real and I love how Cae is there helping him .

I was normally really sick of this fated mate thing , but with this book my love for this is renowned hahaha more because we see their relationship develop and is pretty interesting we have a good dose of slow burn without getting boring , the storyline is full of mysteries and action so everything is well developed, but what really conquered me is Rev’s and Cae’s relationship... I love their struggles, how they didn’t want to trust each other and now they’re finally accepting they do trust each other hahaha I love when one of them is vulnerable and the other is there to help and give strength, I think the more cool think about fated mates is that you have a person you can count undoubtedly and will always be there for you ....yeah that’s me being a lonely bitter bi*ch , but who need fated mates when you have cats ? *cringes internally *

Damn it’s quite sad how much Cae sacrifices herself for Rev , and the worst is that he doesn’t even know most times , it’s really sad ... I think is so cool the purpose of the Schorchedlands really liked it . Hahaha I live Cae’s wraith he is so funny and sarcastic best characters everrrrr . Woah a plot twist? interesting ...more because I particularly didn’t see that coming but relax isn’t something BIG but is cool enough hahahah and just between us guys ...I don’t get surprised often .... can’t wait for the next .

[Isaaz_06 · Rating 3 out of 5]

3⭐️

- Caelynn: protagonista femenina
- Reveln (Rev): protagonista masculino
- Cae si se fue al mundo humano para cuidar a Raven por una temporada, pero ya no podía controlar su magia como lo hacía antes de regresar al mundo de hadas, por lo que tuvo que volver al reino, dejando a Raven en un nuevo instituto privado (a partir de ahí se menciona quizás 2 veces mas a Raven, cuando Cae dice que la extraña, pero nada más)
- Volvió al reino con la cabeza de uno de los asesinos que había mandado el “padre” de Rev para matarla. Luego, visitó a Rev y tenía pensado visitar su reino para convertirse en una miembro oficial, hasta que se enteró de que Rev no puede entrar en el bosque de los espíritus malignos y decidió quedarse para ayudarle (como siempre, sacrificando todo por él)
- Leyeron muchos libros intentando averiguar nuevas cosas, pero Rev seguía sin poder entrar. Hasta que Cae descubrió que no podía entrar porque Rev ya ha superado la peor experiencia de su vida (antes de esto, sabían que una de las reglas del bosque, era que solo podía salir una persona cada diez años (pudiendo entrar cualquiera sin importar el poder o reino) y una vez se remidiesen de sus pecados y malas experiencias, pasarían a la otra vida), es decir, la había perdonado por haber matado a su hermano y al haberse liberado de eso, el bosque no le dejaba pasar porque ya había cumplido el objetivo del bosque. Así que, cuando el “padre” de Rev les pilló en una sala solos, cuando se estaban besando, y comenzó a decirle a Rev mil cosas horribles de Cae, de cómo disfrutó matar a su hermano y que lo haría de nuevo si pudiese, Cae aprovechó y afirmó lo que decía el padre, para así romper el corazón y la confianza que le tenia Rev, para que pudiese entrar de una vez en el bosque
- Por petición de Cae, Ty (el enano-hada), le dio la mochila a Rev y le mandó al bosque (al cual esta vez, si entró)
- Por manipulación del “padre” de Rev, Cae poco después de que Rev se metiese al bosque, se creyó lo que le decía el “padre” (que había caído en su trampa y había llevado a Rev donde el monstruo quería y que todo era para matarle y quitárselo de encima) y se sacrificó (de nuevo, como no) metiéndose también en el bosque, sabiendo que no iba a salir y que se quedaría ahí lo que le queda de vida o que moriría
- Una vez estuvo en el bosque, se encontró de nuevo al espíritu que le dijo de las competiciones (trials) en el primer libro, quien servía a la reina del reino de las sombras. Estaba allí para “protegerla” y porque tenían intereses en común
- Cuando encontró a Rev, con ayuda del espíritu, y vio que estaba por morirse, obviamente también intentó ir para salvarle, pero consiguió librarse por poco. Ya luego, en otro momento en el que Rev estaba como en el mundo de los sueños, que era humo que te hacía tener alucinaciones de lo que más deseabas, Cae se lo encontró casi siguiendo a una imagen de ella que le intentaba convencer de que la siguiese, Rev se consiguió librar pero fue atrapado por una ramas de árboles que le atacaban, Cae le siguió y le libró para ser ella atacada y herida (Rev luego la curó como pudo)
- En este punto del libro, Rev “odiaba” a Cae y ya no confiaba en ella, pero por la conexión de almas gemelas, seguía queriéndola y preocupándose por ella (supuestamente es por la conexión, pero a saber si es cosa de él sin influencia de la magia)
- Continuaron su camino, para ir en busca de la “cura” hasta que se encontraron al espíritu del hermano de Rev, este atacó a Cae por “venganza” aparentemente (Rev la curó aquí también), hasta que se llevó a Rev a un sitio medianamente seguro. Cuando estuvieron separados, fue cuando el espíritu que seguía a Cae, le contó toda la verdad, que nunca hubo cura en ese bosque, que todo era cosa de la reina (no la de su reino), que todo era para librar al otro monstruo que llevaba encerrada en ese bosque siglos y la cual era alma gemela del monstruo que está libre (el que obligó a Cae a matar al hermano) y que juntos destrozarían todo el mundo y serían imparables. Por ello, Cae era imprescindible para el monstruo libre, ya que era la única capaz de liberar el hechizo que mantenía encerrada al otro monstruo porque era la tatara mucho nieta del hombre que la encerró (quien era el espíritu que la protegía, el cual le dijo que su padre (el del espíritu) intentó debilitar el poder de sus descendientes, emparejándolos con otras personas más débiles, para evitar que el siguiente nacido pudiese romper el hechizo. Cuanto más débiles, más desaparecería el poder para romperlo). Por otro lado, el destino de Rev era menos importante, pero igual era destacable, él tenía el poder de sanar a todos los que estaban infectados con esa infección que no paraba de expandirse, por eso lo querían muerto y a Cae secuestrada, pero viva.
- El hermano de Rev cuando estaba con él a solas, comenzó a camelarle el oído, manipulándole mientras le contaba la verdad, intentando convencerle de que rompiese su conexión con Cae y así sabría que es real y que es solo efecto de la magia. Sin embargo, Rev solo le atacó ya que no paraba de llamar a Cae de formas no muy bonitas y fue ahí cuando Cae entró y le defendió y evitó que el hermano de Rev tocase a Rev
- Ahí, el hermano comenzó a decirla a Cae que si muriese todo se solucionaría (que en parte es cierto), los monstruos ya no estarían interesados en Rev porque solo lo utilizaban porque era la debilidad de Cae, pero tampoco podrían liberar al otro monstruo por lo que no destruirían el mundo. Por eso, Cae hace un trato con el hermano y es atravesada por el pecho. Rev paniquea, la sana lo que puede y ataca a su hermano, diciéndole que elige a Cae y que se vaya a la mierda (no matándole ._.)
- Termina el libro en otro cliffhanger, en el que Cae sigue diciendo que debería morir para que todo terminase, pero Rev le dice que tiene que dejar de dar partes de ella con tal de salvarle, que trabajen mejor juntos y que encontrarán una manera de salvarse y salir juntos

Críticas:

- Primero de todo, Rev ha sido exasperante, un idiota completo. Se ha dejado llevar totalmente por los sentimientos, cuando Cae le mintió diciendo que disfrutó matar a su hermano y todo, Rev no dudó ni un segundo y la creyó, volviendo a odiarla. No se paró a pensar ni un momento en por qué lo hizo y ni con la ayuda del espíritu consiguió averiguar por qué Cae dijo lo que dijo, hasta que estuvo ahí ella, con medio pecho perforado. Es que ni viendo y sabiendo todo lo que ha sacrificado por él y que todo lo malo que ha hecho ha sido solo por su bien, se ha parado y dado el voto de duda, pero es que nada, simplemente Cae terminó de hablar y ya Rev la mandó de nuevo a la lista negra
- Luego, entiendo almas gemelas y todo y que es fantasía, pero es que no puedo comprender, cómo Cae sigue sacrificándose por él, estando con él aún cuando la “odia” y no duda ni un segundo. Entiendo que es amor eterno, mucho amor y esas mierdas, pero es que no tiene sentido, no es nada recíproco, Rev es un palurdo que no se daba cuenta de nada y solo seguía hiriendo a Cae mientras ella solo le daba más cachitos de ella y seguía amándole
- Por otro lado, algunos plot twists (que Cae fuese la única que tuviese el poder para romper la maldición o que fuese de la realeza) estuvieron bien, no es algo que me paré a pensar mucho (por pereza más que nada), así que no sorprenden pero tampoco es tan evidente, así que estuvo bien
- Fue corto, pero se descubrieron cosas que son importantes para la trama y lo que seguirá pasando en los otros libros
- Por último (hay más cosas, pero me da pereza recordarlas, Rev me ha chafado este libro y ni me interesa ponerme a pensar en las cosas del libro), si Rev no cambia (idiota total), adiós saga

Conclusión: PUTO REV, MEH 😑

[Riniya · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tropes/ Key Points:
Dual POV
Enemies to Lovers
Slow Burn
Only One Horse
Political Coups
Fated Mates

TW: Death, Murder, Abuse, Attempted Harm

Blurb:

I gave up the competition and let Rev win. I’ve returned to the human realm, accepting my fate while I wait for the banishment to become permanent, once Rev cures the scourge. I’ve realized that Raven is better off without me and make plans to leave her safely, only to discover an assassin has been following us. He makes a move on me and I kill him, returning his head to Rev’s father, knowing he was the one to send the killer.

Back in the Fae realm I realize that solving the curse isn’t as easy as it was made to seem. Rev can’t get into the “hell” realm, the gate refusing him entry. I put aside my own desires to help him solve the mystery, even when it results in him hating me once more. A plot is revealed to me that is set up for Rev’s death and I go racing off after him, knowing that only one living soul can enter and be allowed to return from the Hell realm every 10 years. I enter to save him, knowing that I will never be able to come back out. I do this.. because I love my fated mate, even if he will never be able to love me.


Review:

I think this was such a great continuation of the series. It keeps you guessing as to who is behind a diabolical plot to end the world. You don’t know who is truly on Cae or Rev’s side as the story progresses and the diabolical plot is revealed.

The pacing in this book is done right. The author keeps it consistent and knows how to disperse action packed moments with calmer scenes sprinkled throughout. She knows how to give you information that you are desperate for while also withholding key pieces. The twists and upcoming plot points are pretty predictable but I will admit there were a few times that I was pleasantly surprised by what was revealed. Or I guessed it right before we were told, which is a win in the authors column for me.

I did feel like this book was missing the side characters that gave us depth in the first. We do get to see our dwarven ally at one point as well as Kari who helps Cae out when things start to get tough. But for the most part it feels like the friendly banter present in the previous book is lacking in this one. Raven is replaced by a familiar face from the previous book and not only did he add to the plot continuity, he did give us a bit of that sidekick flair, but unfortunately not enough.

The information from book one with Raven being in love with Cae is barely mentioned and as Raven is gone, makes me feel even more so like it was a plot point added to say “I’m down with the times” instead of something the author was actually interested in pursuing. It didn’t feel like the author was truly trying to represent the LGBTQ community, and instead felt like she was just checking a box. Of a gay character that she promptly removed from the story in the next book. I am not apart of the LGBTQ but I do feel they deserve a bit better than how this situation was handled. I wish it was a bigger plot point than it ended up being so far.

Overall, still a good series and I plan to continue, but I hope the author is done with this back and forth of “I love you/ I hate you” with Rev and Cae cause it’s going to get old fast if not. Especially with the way this book ended with Rev fully aware of what’s been going on.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this second book in the Wicked Fae series we finally get more of Caelynn and Rev as they are once again drawn by fate into each other’s orbits. The author focuses more on their bond this time, or at least on showing what could be between Caelynn and Rev… if she hadn’t killed his brother, if he didn’t mistrust her so, if their love wouldn’t have been cursed before it could even begin to blossom, a doom put on their mate bond not by unhappy circumstance, but put into motion by an evil so dark and frightening it strikes terror even in the bravest heart. I love the mystery in this series, how nothing is how it at first seems, and where dark and shadows can hold acceptance and warmth, whereas the most magnificent light and glitter sometimes hide the biggest monsters. Like before there is a lot of danger, fighting and suspense, but also very touching moments between Caelynn and Rev. Rev is great, still he sometimes focuses on the wrong things, though I do understand his motives for doing so. Caelynn, however, is still my absolute favorite! She’s so incredibly strong and fierce, and has a such a capacity for deep, enduring love and friendship. I love the mythology and history of this world full of courts, fickle magical creatures and power games, and it was fascinating to find out more about the infamous Scorchedland.
We get to reconnect with some amazing secondary characters like Tyadin and Kari, and I’m knocking wood and crossing my fingers for Tyadin because I NEED his story so much. He’s just so wonderful, such a great friend to both Caelynn and Rev, insightful, brave, loyal and true.

[Juli · Rating 4 out of 5]

KU*

3.75 stars

Okay so this books picks a few months after Trail of Thorns and it seems we are NOT done with all the secrets.

Caelynn has left Raven all set up in school and has decided to return to the fae realm to complete some tasks she has always wanted to do; however, their are some assassins waiting for her which leads her back to the Luminescent Court and Rev.

This book we get to know more about the Night Bringer and his plans especially why he chose Caelynn to kill Rev. it seems our hero, Rev, is having trouble starting his quest and asks Caelynn for help which she naturally agrees to but they need some help from their ally, Tyadin, the dwarf fae.

This book was bit more slow paced and I’d do find myself jumping over some passages, but it wasn’t boring. Rev did get on my nerves because he has forgiven Caelynn, but still plays hot/cold with her and finally someone calls him on it; thank you Tyadin. However, that does last for long and we find our couple in more danger than they expected; the betrayal seem to becoming from everywhere.

Rev finally speaks to the one person he has begged to see again, unfortunately, it doesn’t go as he hoped. Caelynn was driving me crazy, I completely understood the helpful wraith’s frustration, she just kept sacrificing herself in any way to save Rev. These had we wanting to scream, but it seems there have been a turning point right at the end.

I’m still confused about the ancient beings’ plans how these two are going to stop it.

Onto book 3…

[Tanya Courtney · Rating 5 out of 5]

An enjoyable second installment

This book picks up just a little bit after book one with Cae back on earth with Raven and Rev in the Fae court waiting to head on his next part of the quest to save the Fae lands from the Scourge.

Cae comes back to the Fae lands I mean what could keep her away from Rev at this point, this girl is so self sacrificing and will do anything for that guy. She is such a beautifully written character she's shrouded in darkness and shadow and yet she has so much light and love you can't help but love her.

Rev, well I wanted to punch him in the face a few times for not being able to see what was right in front of him but ultimately I am routing for him and Cae despite everything.

Ty, oh how I love him and was so happy we got to spend some time with him again in this book. I love the friendship that's grown between the three of these characters and I hope we get to see more of him in the next book. I want so much happiness for him.

Overall we had just as much action in this book as the last and we are finding out more about the mystery behind the Night Bringer and his plans and everything going on behind the scenes at court.

Excited to start reading book three.

[Rachel Osborne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in the wicked fae series and I absolutely devoured it. This book focuses on the aftermath of the trials and what Rev now has to accomplish, being the winner. His mission to the schorchedlands isn't as easy as it seems and we get to watch the journey play out through the story. Caelynn comes back to the realm and helps Rev with his task, in more ways than one. There's a beauty to the writing that you'll fall in love with. It gives you all the feels, revelations and flow within the story that just keeps your attention and eagerness to for more. Old characters come back and secrets will be revealed. I loved the world building and suspense that this second book gives us. Watching Cae and Rev grow closer was a tragedy and heart warming all at the same time. And that ending had me clicking my kindle for more, only to find it's the end. Stacey Trombley has given us a magical fae tale that gives me the Romeo and Juliet feelings and I'm in awe at how interesting she's made this story become. Any fae fan will love this unique and intriguing series from the first page! I can't wait for the next book!

[Micheala · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book received from the author and I am reviewing it voluntarily and objectively.

What a fantastic sequel!

I said in my review of the first book, that Cae is such a fantastic and strong female character. What we saw in that book is nothing compared to what is shown in this one! She fights for herself and Rev every step of the way. She is the first to swing a sword or throw a punch. She is not a Mary Sue at all. She eats Mary Sues up for lunch.

My favorite part of this book is the mate bond thing. The author took such a fantastic twist with it. Neither of them particularly want it, and unlike every other book in the world they do not act on it. It’s just there. It plays its part, but ultimately does not decide anything. If this book had to be categorized in one theme, I would say choice. Choice over their relationship and choice over who they ally themselves with.

This picks up shortly after the first one ended. Since Rev won, he now needs to play the part but cannot so Cae helps him. In the end, she full-on fights for him and again, I am overwhelmed with her strength.


Like book 1, this one ends in a way that has you screaming for more.

[Ever · Rating 3 out of 5]

It's just super hard to get over Rev, like I can handle a lot of angst and will they won't they. But this guy is so weak and indecisive it's hard to respect him. Like home boi looking at her walk into some ball thinking damn I failed that girl, and then does nothing to correct his actions. And he so willingly believes the worst in her despite book 1 events and knowing his dying thoughts are "if only i had known". like my brother maybe take half a minute and think about new developments a little deeper. And straight up telling someone he would not risk everything for her because of some chemicals telling him he loves her. Bro that is just like plain old unmated love, it's brain chemicals you aren't going to find something more special. Straight up tells himself he will just find someone else and it won't be his mate but it will have to do. Ew.

Cae also making me itch by not at least giving this guy some shit for being such an ungrateful drip. She's always like yeah he's right I deserve all the horrors I get. HELLO. Sad to be reinforcing this dynamic in young girls.

I'm still reading these tho I guess I have brain damage.

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

Now that the trials are over, Rev and Cae are brought back together again and nothing is simple.

I love that we got some quality time with Ty in this book and his insights not only to Rev's challenge, but also what's growing between Rev and Cae. Ty also has a way of saying exactly what they need to hear in a way that makes them actually listen. I'd love to have a few scenes from his POV at some point and am curious if we might get some when he goes on his quest...

Side note: I'm completely amused by Cae's wraith buddy. So entertaining in such a dark place.

We get to see more details in a few of the kingdoms which is really interesting - especially THE castle.

ST keeps things reasonably complicated between Rev and Cae throughout this book and gives us consistency in how/why they feel the way they do, which I appreciate.

The action continues to deliver while the story keeps evolving. I'm definitely enjoying this world!

I received a review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an amazing sequel to Trial of Thorns! Carve and Rev managed to survive the trials but now Rev has to enter the Schorchedlands - Fae hell - in order to find the cure to the blight and save fae-kind. But entering it isn’t so easy, and once he’s there he’ll have to survive it’s nightmares. The story is exciting and fantastic and it really gives Cae and Rev more time to grow and it starts to show more about their bond, but even that might not be enough for them to end up together. There’s quite a twist in this story and not everything is as it seems. Evil forces have a plot in motion and it’s up to Caelynn and Reveln to stop it, but can they? There’s so many ups and downs in this book that made my heart hurt. I just want things to work out for them but I don’t know how! Anyway, I loved this book and I can’t recommend it enough!

[Jenny Grey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story just gets better!

Okay I think I like book 2 better than the first.

We meet back up with Rev and Caelynn after the trials.

Caelynn makes the most badass entrance into the courts fine dinner and to me that set the tone for the book.

Compared to the first book we see more of the bond between Rev and Caelynn at tension. While one has true motives the other is left doubting.

Overall, we once again have beautiful writing and the appearance of some favorite characters from book, which was appreciated. There is a great bit of plot development in this book that hits pretty heavy near the end. This is neither a positive or negative in my mind but it is a decent amount of information to process before the next book. This will not sow me down from moving straight to the next book either!

[☾arina⭐︎ · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was so good I finished it in a day. I like how seamlessly the story continued from where we left off. We see the continuation of the next task where Rev now has to go to the Schorchedlands to retrieve the cure but he soon realizes he might need help from his allies.

I love seeing the male character showing his vulnerable and emotional side. I feel like we usually see this more when it comes to the female character. I just wanted to give Rev a big hug. His friendship with Caelynn and Ty is one of my favorite developments in this book. You can see how much they care for each other. Rev and Cae still have feelings they need to work on but you can see it slowly developing into something more. I love, love how protective she is of him. Can't wait to see how they get out of the situation they're in.

[Kubra · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had this long conversation with myself where I listed all the reasons why it'd be better to wait for the next installment before reading this book. I made a lot of sense too, after all November is just a few months away. I lasted a week.
Is it just me or was this book shorter than the first because I legit finished it in 4hours and it seemed to end just when the action started though it was really nice to see Cae and Rev be friends and with Ty too. The story really picked up speed with so many things finally revealed and the characters had much stronger, likeable personalities in this installment. I didn't like how easily Rev went back to hating her after everything she'd done for him though but he kinda made up for it at the end

[Felicity · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved it! The second book is definitely better than the first in my opinion and it was great to see the character development as the book progressed, and it moved slightly more away from typical cliché and into more original storylines, although it does still have the forbidden love trope. If I had to describe the book in one word it would be 'angst', so if that's your thing then great! And if not then this may not be the book for you, but overall I really enjoyed it. I was given an pre-editing copy (ARC) in exchange for a review, so I can't comment on the grammar and spellings but I hope they've improved in the editing process since that was a bit of an issue in this version. Overall a great read though and I'm looking forward to reading the next book

[Tyra Parker · Rating 3 out of 5]

Omg this book was so short. For what?

Also Rev doesn't deserve Caelynn. Not even a question. This girl. She is willing to give the fingers on her hands for someone else. She would but off her arm if it meant the people she scared about was safe. She would do more than to die for them she would live for them, live through the worst pain imaginable.

Rev my guy. I know you hate Caelynn and shit. But throughout this whole thing she has never lied to you. She has saved your ass so much so for one second trust her and think of the bigger picture. He better do some hero ass shit to make up for everything. Yeah sure he picked her at the end. But imma need more than that.

If all the books are this short i'll probs read them all.

[Candice Waite · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a great continuation of an exciting story, Cae and Rev made it through the trials, but now they must face a greater challenge, the scortched lands where the dead remain as wraiths and trees capture you by showing your greatest desire. Follow along as each determines what they are willing to sacrifice in order to save the world and their mate. I enjoyed catching up with other characters from book one and reading the delightful descriptions of the different fae kingdoms these two journey through to get to the scortched lands. Surprisingly twists keep you entertained.
There is some use of the f word which I don't appreciate.

[Marissa_reads_fairytales · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not gonna lie, this one had me tearing up mid way through and I feel like the last half went by really quickly. It was one of those times you flip the page only to realize it was the last.

Definitely thought it was better than the first book, as I feel you are really starting to understand the plot of the series. I’m still suspicious of a couple things so I hope those are resolved soon. Part of me wants to believe I still don’t know everything, and knowing the FMC, I’m probably not wrong to think that. She reminds me of Aelin from ToG in that aspect. Secrets upon secrets upon secrets.

Slowburn, fated mates, enemies to allies to lovers, fatal destinies, etc.

[Laura · Rating 3 out of 5]

After Caelynn gave up her win to Rev during the trials she goes to the human realm for a stay of execution. When she feels the pull to return she finds that Rev needs help and she will always help him. Then she discovers there is a plot against her prince and she decides she needs to be by his side, whether he wants her there or not.

I gave this one less star than book one because I felt like there wasn't enough progression in the story. But I did still really enjoy it. The tension between Cae and Rev was written so well I couldn't get enough of their interactions. And geez, everyone goes through so much I hope there's a little happiness for them in book 3.

[Jennifer Mullins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once I started reading, I couldn’t put this one down! Again, it’s told from Rev and Cae’s POV and continues after the trials. One of my fave scenes with Cae is the very first part of the book...she is such a badass! This book has an enemies-to-lovers feel as they both battle with their feelings around the mate bond. As intelligent as Rev is, he can be so obtuse to the truth when it comes to his mate. The cliffhanger ending is a sweet moment between the two and I can’t wait to see what happens next!

Thank you to the author for a free copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Bethany Hoeflich · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book picks up shortly after the events of book one. As Rev has won the trials, it's his duty to enter the Schorchedlands and retrieve the cure for the curse that has been plaguing the Fae realm, but nothing is simple, and there are a few plot twists that shake everything up.

I really enjoyed the growing relationship between Cae and Rev, and the action left me breathless at times.

Be warned: There's a bit of a cliffhanger ending, but it in no way ruins the story. If anything, it makes me eager for the next book!