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The Wicked Woods Chronicles #1
Darling, there are wolves in the woods
The woods are dark and wicked,and perhaps some things would be better off staying lost…Teya Jenkins is ten years old when her sister is taken.Niven is never found, because no one knows where to look.No one but Teya that is, who heard the whispers of the treesand saw the beautiful creatures that dwelled in the shadows.It is only after another tragedy, years later, that Teya finally daresto enter the forest that haunts her dreams, determined to bring homeher sister and mend the fractured remains of her family.Beneath the whispering oaks, she meets Laphaniel, an outcastfrom the Seelie Court, who tempts her away with veiled promisesof the thing she’s always longed for…to belong somewhere.But Laphaniel has secrets of his own,and Teya soon finds herself fighting not only for her life,and for her sister, but also for her heart.A sensual, dark faerie tale, full of delicious romance and delightful gothic imagery.
346 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 19, 2019
About the author
L.V. Russell
9 books143 followersLydia grew up on a farm deep in the Dorset countryside alongside her three elder brothers, using the fields and woodland as their playground.
As an adult with two young children, she has used the memories of the wild woods of her youth to write The Wicked Woods Chronicles
A tale of lost sisters, whispering trees, and dark romance.
oh, the woods are dark and wicked...
As an adult with two young children, she has used the memories of the wild woods of her youth to write The Wicked Woods Chronicles
A tale of lost sisters, whispering trees, and dark romance.
oh, the woods are dark and wicked...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
July 22, 2021
I love reading stories of the fae, and this gorgeous beauty by Lydia Russell took my breath away! Teya was a child when her sister Niven disappeared in the woods close to their home. Her family has never been the same since. No one believes Teya’s stories about the things she sees and hears there in the woods. The world of the faeries, which Teya stumbles into in an attempt to find her sister, is brutal, deliciously dark, and gorgeously described. Witches sell human bones at a marketplace. Faeries keep humans as pets and playthings. Be sure not to eat or drink anything at a Faerie ball. Laphaniel, who has bought Teya, and has a simmering connection with her you feel oozing off every page, has just enough of a dark side that you don’t know quite how much to trust him. He is a faerie, after all. And in this book, faeries are the predators. This book had such a yummy dark fantasy vibe! I loved Teya’s defiance. I loved the rich, gorgeous worldbuilding and lovely prose. This was such a treat!
Please excuse typos/name misspellings. Entered on screen reader.
Please excuse typos/name misspellings. Entered on screen reader.
September 9, 2021
Oh my gosh, this book is so amazing! It's packed full of action, magic, suspense, and LOVE! Everything I want in a book is right here in Darling, there are wolves in the woods.
~There may be some spoilers in this review, so tread lightly~
I read what is apparently the second edition and I have to say, if there were any issues with the first one they are gone now. Perfectly edited and expertly written, this riveting fantasy proves Russell is a force to be reckoned with. She has now joined my list of authors I'd read anything by.
First of all, I loved the characters. While I was a fan of Teya from the start, I must admit that Laphaniel (awesome name, by the way!) took some time to grow on me. He seemed cruel at first. Such is the nature of a fae though. I did enjoy the dark take on fae folk. Rather than sweet, Russell portrays them as vicious creatures that perceive humans as mere playthings to be tossed aside when they outlive their usefulness. Laphaniel, however, does something unexpected. He falls in love with one. It was such a joy watching their relationship unfold as they gradually grew more trusting of one another. The fae world Teya wanders into while alone in the woods is dangerous, beautiful, and dark, but together they can survive alluring mermaids, hungry trolls, creepy witches, and of course, wolves!
Overall, this book is a solid fantasy. It's darker than most I've read, but I loved every minute of it. In fact, I'm going to jump right into the sequel, which is rare for me. I usually wait months before continuing a series, but I just have to know what happens next!
I highly recommend you check this out!
~There may be some spoilers in this review, so tread lightly~
I read what is apparently the second edition and I have to say, if there were any issues with the first one they are gone now. Perfectly edited and expertly written, this riveting fantasy proves Russell is a force to be reckoned with. She has now joined my list of authors I'd read anything by.
First of all, I loved the characters. While I was a fan of Teya from the start, I must admit that Laphaniel (awesome name, by the way!) took some time to grow on me. He seemed cruel at first. Such is the nature of a fae though. I did enjoy the dark take on fae folk. Rather than sweet, Russell portrays them as vicious creatures that perceive humans as mere playthings to be tossed aside when they outlive their usefulness. Laphaniel, however, does something unexpected. He falls in love with one. It was such a joy watching their relationship unfold as they gradually grew more trusting of one another. The fae world Teya wanders into while alone in the woods is dangerous, beautiful, and dark, but together they can survive alluring mermaids, hungry trolls, creepy witches, and of course, wolves!
Overall, this book is a solid fantasy. It's darker than most I've read, but I loved every minute of it. In fact, I'm going to jump right into the sequel, which is rare for me. I usually wait months before continuing a series, but I just have to know what happens next!
I highly recommend you check this out!
July 13, 2020
A dark fairytale like no other!
I have no words left to describe this book! I was unable to put it down.
I don't know which element of this book drew me in more. The darkness? The absolutely stunning description of the details? The protagonist's voice? Maybe everything. There was not one moment that I felt bored.
Teya was a great main character, that made me want to follow her on her long journey in the woods. Laphaniel seemed more like a darker person, but I guess it's because of his fey nature. It didn't seem out of place at all. I liked his character, I liked his darkness, too. He was real, vulnerable.
Overall, this story is definately worth your time. HIGHLY recommended, as it is a wonderful, magical read, and definately a page-turner. I can't wait for the next book of this series!
January 2, 2022
I’ve never been one to judge a book by its cover, but when I saw this book, I stopped. The cover isn’t just beautiful, but the title is quite striking as well.
Upon reading the synopsis, I was ready to buy the ebook and dive in to those wicked woods. And it did not disappoint.
I’ve never minded whether a book has first- or third-person perspective, but I’ve always found that the immersion into a story is that much deeper in first. To my surprise and delight, this gem of a book was a portal into a new life.
Becoming Teya Jenkins took a matter of minutes. She’s a firecracker, but stuck in a life she can no longer stand. Using this as her fuel to overcome her fear if the woods she enters a new realm full of dangerous, beautiful things. Only a strike of luck saves her life, and thrusts her into Laphaniel’s life, the outcast from Seelie court, striking a series of events that would change them both.
It was amazing, learning about the various creatures that lived in Faerie and all the magic that was infused into the world through Teya’s eyes. The world-building was pristine, and the action kept coming as she and Lephaniel begin to rely on one another. By the time I reached The End, I needed to know more.
Teya was a strong, yet flawed heroine, and she challenged Lephaniel at every turn, just as he challenged her. I highly recommend it to anyone interested in learning about a new, captivating world and getting to know multi-faceted, complex characters. And I can’t wait to read the rest of this series.
Upon reading the synopsis, I was ready to buy the ebook and dive in to those wicked woods. And it did not disappoint.
I’ve never minded whether a book has first- or third-person perspective, but I’ve always found that the immersion into a story is that much deeper in first. To my surprise and delight, this gem of a book was a portal into a new life.
Becoming Teya Jenkins took a matter of minutes. She’s a firecracker, but stuck in a life she can no longer stand. Using this as her fuel to overcome her fear if the woods she enters a new realm full of dangerous, beautiful things. Only a strike of luck saves her life, and thrusts her into Laphaniel’s life, the outcast from Seelie court, striking a series of events that would change them both.
It was amazing, learning about the various creatures that lived in Faerie and all the magic that was infused into the world through Teya’s eyes. The world-building was pristine, and the action kept coming as she and Lephaniel begin to rely on one another. By the time I reached The End, I needed to know more.
Teya was a strong, yet flawed heroine, and she challenged Lephaniel at every turn, just as he challenged her. I highly recommend it to anyone interested in learning about a new, captivating world and getting to know multi-faceted, complex characters. And I can’t wait to read the rest of this series.
October 23, 2021
I really enjoyed this dark, fairytale-esque story. While the characters took me a while to bond with (and trust me, I was all in by the end), the imagery and imagination is what drew me in right from the start. I just loved all the different creatures and settings the author wove into her tale, particularly the night market, witch's coven, and a delightfully creepy picnic scene. Will definitely be continuing this series in the near future.
May 18, 2021
Darling, there are wolves in the woods was a magical fairytale that transported me to the mysterious world of the Fey alongside the main character Teya.
I loved everything about this story. Russell’s prose was poetic and beautiful. It instantly drew me into the story and I felt and experienced everything that Teya did. The author’s descriptions were so stunning I felt like I had fallen inside the pages instead of just reading them.
I also loved the characters. Teya was easy to root for and very relatable. And Laphaniel was the perfect love interest with the perfect mixture of a dark brooding stranger and caring loving partner. I was just as smitten with him as Teya was.
I can’t fault this book and I can’t wait to pick up the sequel!
I loved everything about this story. Russell’s prose was poetic and beautiful. It instantly drew me into the story and I felt and experienced everything that Teya did. The author’s descriptions were so stunning I felt like I had fallen inside the pages instead of just reading them.
I also loved the characters. Teya was easy to root for and very relatable. And Laphaniel was the perfect love interest with the perfect mixture of a dark brooding stranger and caring loving partner. I was just as smitten with him as Teya was.
I can’t fault this book and I can’t wait to pick up the sequel!
May 23, 2021
This was one of those books that sucked me in and didn’t let me go. Once Teya’s adventure really began I was hooked. My intent was only to read the prologue through chapter 7 for the May read-along on Instagram, but that went out the window pretty much immediately. I devoured the entire book in less than 48 hours and immediately went onto Amazon to order the sequel.
Russell’s writing is enchanting. The descriptions of the fey creatures could be beautiful paintings in the mind, or invoke every nightmare you had as a small child. I found her style easy to read and engrossing.
I really enjoyed the worldbuilding of Darling, there are wolves in the woods. Russell’s version of faerie felt distinct. Most of the worldbuilding was shown off through the characters and creatures that Teya met along the way. The market and the witches, for example, were a gorgeous (and yet vile) bit of worldbuilding. The world felt full and rich, with a history. It also felt like Teya and the reader have only explored a very small corner of it.
A thought that crossed my mind frequently when reading the book was “damn, these two are toxic.” But to be fair, when you’re dealing with a relationship that involves the fey that is often going to be the case. I thought that a lot while reading Wendy, Darling by Rebecca F. Kenney as well. So while I would not hold Teya and Laphaniel up as a glowing example of what true love should look like for 90% of the book, their tempestuous relationship did make for entertaining reading.
Russell’s writing is enchanting. The descriptions of the fey creatures could be beautiful paintings in the mind, or invoke every nightmare you had as a small child. I found her style easy to read and engrossing.
I really enjoyed the worldbuilding of Darling, there are wolves in the woods. Russell’s version of faerie felt distinct. Most of the worldbuilding was shown off through the characters and creatures that Teya met along the way. The market and the witches, for example, were a gorgeous (and yet vile) bit of worldbuilding. The world felt full and rich, with a history. It also felt like Teya and the reader have only explored a very small corner of it.
A thought that crossed my mind frequently when reading the book was “damn, these two are toxic.” But to be fair, when you’re dealing with a relationship that involves the fey that is often going to be the case. I thought that a lot while reading Wendy, Darling by Rebecca F. Kenney as well. So while I would not hold Teya and Laphaniel up as a glowing example of what true love should look like for 90% of the book, their tempestuous relationship did make for entertaining reading.
May 31, 2020
STILL a well-crafted dark faerie tale
NOTE: Updated for the fabulous April 2021 relaunch!
I first reviewed this book last year but had the pleasure of reading the new and improved version the author created for a relaunch. As before, the author has true talent for excellent descriptive prose, and despite the darkness of the faerie world I found myself almost longing for it, too. There's a sublime blend of beauty, horror and viciousness with as only improved the 2nd time.
The story is well crafted and the pacing was better than ever. Teya is far more multi-layered than before, and the extra scenes showing her internal struggle and desire to fit in greatly improved a character who was certainly likeable. She REALLY had my sympathy throughout and I was rooting for her to find her place, not just her sister.
The romance aspect, which I previously found slightly rushed, is slowed down with the benefit of additional scenes that really show the characters forming a genuine connection, which makes them all the more delicious.
I cannot tell you how clear it is that the author as honed her craft in the space between versions, and how much more attention to emotion and detail bubbles out of this 2nd edition. If Russell keeps going like this, she will become a true master of her craft.
Recommended for fans of Holly Black.
NOTE: Updated for the fabulous April 2021 relaunch!
I first reviewed this book last year but had the pleasure of reading the new and improved version the author created for a relaunch. As before, the author has true talent for excellent descriptive prose, and despite the darkness of the faerie world I found myself almost longing for it, too. There's a sublime blend of beauty, horror and viciousness with as only improved the 2nd time.
The story is well crafted and the pacing was better than ever. Teya is far more multi-layered than before, and the extra scenes showing her internal struggle and desire to fit in greatly improved a character who was certainly likeable. She REALLY had my sympathy throughout and I was rooting for her to find her place, not just her sister.
The romance aspect, which I previously found slightly rushed, is slowed down with the benefit of additional scenes that really show the characters forming a genuine connection, which makes them all the more delicious.
I cannot tell you how clear it is that the author as honed her craft in the space between versions, and how much more attention to emotion and detail bubbles out of this 2nd edition. If Russell keeps going like this, she will become a true master of her craft.
Recommended for fans of Holly Black.
July 6, 2020
Loved this debut novel and cannot wait for the second installment!
Want to Read
October 28, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (10/28/2020)! 🎁
May 7, 2022
What if something unspeakably evil happened to you as a child? That resulted in the disappearance of your sister and subsequently tore your family apart? What if no one believes you? This is all Teya has ever known and everyone thinks she is crazy. She has learned to keep her mouth shut, to never again tell of the horror that happened when she was 10. But the Woods, oh those Wicked, Wicked Woods, they know. And they call to Teya. Find Niven. Come into the Woods, Teya. After another tragedy, Teya does just that, and meets Laphaniel. Is he good or evil? He is most definitely not human. This book was everything I love in a story. Not a prince charming, charging in to save the day, but a flawed faerie, cursed and real. Not a girl hell-bent on finding her sister because she loved her so dearly, but because she believes it will set her world back on its axis. This is about two people doing the only thing they know to move forward, to somehow make sense of all that has happened. All that will still happen. Come meet Luthien, Nefina, Oonagh, and the Queen of Seelie. Take my hand, let us enter these woods together.
I cannot wait to begin “Hush, the Woods are Darker Still”. This story is just beginning. And I am thoroughly looking forward to my journey
I cannot wait to begin “Hush, the Woods are Darker Still”. This story is just beginning. And I am thoroughly looking forward to my journey
October 6, 2021
This book is beautifully written, but was a bit dark for me. I love fairy stories and fairytales, but I just wasn't in the mood for all of the despair and peril that happens in the first act. (Also, TW broken family and suicide.) That said, Russell is an excellent writer and weaves a fantastic tale. If you're in the mood for fantasy on the darker side, this is for you!
February 28, 2021
This book was absolutely lovely! If you love dark fantasy, adventure, and fairies, I highly recommend!
The prose is so lyrical and descriptive, I would get lost in the story! It was a fascinating tale with magic, darkness, and love!
The prose is so lyrical and descriptive, I would get lost in the story! It was a fascinating tale with magic, darkness, and love!
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August 29, 2021Darling there are wolves in the woods by LV Russell follows Teya as she enters an enchanted, dark wood to find her sister who was stolen by the fey ten years past. As she struggles to survive the horrors of the wood, the complex fey, Lathaniel, become inextricably entwined with her journey.
I really loved the writing style of this book. The descriptions were incredibly evocative and painted such a vivid picture of the darkly magical wood. I also super loved just how dark this fairytale-like story was. It was just the right amount of creepy and disturbing without feeling like anything was added for shock value or out of place. Even though the woods are obviously a death trap you wouldn't want to find yourself in, they sounded so beautiful, I could see how they would draw someone in. And I loved all the interesting descriptions of the dark magic that exists in this world.
I found Lathaniel to be a very interesting, complicated character... which, after countless years as a fey, a cruel race, and with his a thorny past, makes a lot of sense. Even though he's very forward about his flaws and is dangerous in so many ways, I can see how Teya would be drawn to him. Teya though, was a bit frustrating to me. Teya has definitely had it rough too in life, but I found her to be rather mercurial in her relationship with Lathaniel, and I had trouble understanding her motivation for some of her choices. But I was definitely still rooting for her, and since there are sequels there's still a lot of room for growth.
Totally recommend to anyone looking for a unique, dark fairytale with complex characters and beautiful writing.
I really loved the writing style of this book. The descriptions were incredibly evocative and painted such a vivid picture of the darkly magical wood. I also super loved just how dark this fairytale-like story was. It was just the right amount of creepy and disturbing without feeling like anything was added for shock value or out of place. Even though the woods are obviously a death trap you wouldn't want to find yourself in, they sounded so beautiful, I could see how they would draw someone in. And I loved all the interesting descriptions of the dark magic that exists in this world.
I found Lathaniel to be a very interesting, complicated character... which, after countless years as a fey, a cruel race, and with his a thorny past, makes a lot of sense. Even though he's very forward about his flaws and is dangerous in so many ways, I can see how Teya would be drawn to him. Teya though, was a bit frustrating to me. Teya has definitely had it rough too in life, but I found her to be rather mercurial in her relationship with Lathaniel, and I had trouble understanding her motivation for some of her choices. But I was definitely still rooting for her, and since there are sequels there's still a lot of room for growth.
Totally recommend to anyone looking for a unique, dark fairytale with complex characters and beautiful writing.
May 2, 2020
Wow, oh wow! I absolutely loved it!
A beautifully crafted story that will take you through the elemental world of the Faye, but the original Faye; the Faye that capture children & sell their souls to witches.
Teya witnessed her sister being taken by Faeries 10 years ago. The abduction ruined her family, and of course no one believed it was Faeries.
Teya calls into the woods, screaming for the Faye, after her father's funeral.
Laphaniel appears with a sinister creature and Teya follows them into the woods. She wants her sister back and Laphaniel knows where she is.
The story follows Teya's adventure to find her sister as she falls in love with Laphaniel.
This book took me on an emotional rollercoaster. I was enchanted, haunted and terrified page after page.
The authors world building skills are exquisite, she delights the reader with exceptional and stunning detail, I honestly felt like I was there.
A great twist at the end left me wanting more. I was book hungover for days.
5 stars! If you love fantasy, you're likely to love this. Book 2 is out September, and I can't wait!
A beautifully crafted story that will take you through the elemental world of the Faye, but the original Faye; the Faye that capture children & sell their souls to witches.
Teya witnessed her sister being taken by Faeries 10 years ago. The abduction ruined her family, and of course no one believed it was Faeries.
Teya calls into the woods, screaming for the Faye, after her father's funeral.
Laphaniel appears with a sinister creature and Teya follows them into the woods. She wants her sister back and Laphaniel knows where she is.
The story follows Teya's adventure to find her sister as she falls in love with Laphaniel.
This book took me on an emotional rollercoaster. I was enchanted, haunted and terrified page after page.
The authors world building skills are exquisite, she delights the reader with exceptional and stunning detail, I honestly felt like I was there.
A great twist at the end left me wanting more. I was book hungover for days.
5 stars! If you love fantasy, you're likely to love this. Book 2 is out September, and I can't wait!
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July 27, 2025The Wicked Woods Chronicles are being relaunched this August! With brand new interiors, covers and extras!
June 9, 2021
Wow.
Just wow.
I love a story with psychological depth and this one has it in spades. My favorite aspect is the main character. She’s been through some hell and it has left its mark. It affects her decisions, her worldview, and everything in-between. I love it. Sometimes her choices frustrate the reader but that’s what make her so engaging and real.
Some of the relationships here are...complicated and I’m so here for it! It’s a brilliant reflection of old school fairy tales and you’ll lose yourself in it!
Enjoy the journey!
Just wow.
I love a story with psychological depth and this one has it in spades. My favorite aspect is the main character. She’s been through some hell and it has left its mark. It affects her decisions, her worldview, and everything in-between. I love it. Sometimes her choices frustrate the reader but that’s what make her so engaging and real.
Some of the relationships here are...complicated and I’m so here for it! It’s a brilliant reflection of old school fairy tales and you’ll lose yourself in it!
Enjoy the journey!
April 23, 2023
Well this was beautifully written. I really enjoyed the darkness of it, the cruelty of the Faerie. It was nice to see references to Selkies, Night-Mares and Kelpies.
I did not much like the main character, and I wasn't convinced by her choices. But that being said, I enjoyed the tale immensely.
I did not much like the main character, and I wasn't convinced by her choices. But that being said, I enjoyed the tale immensely.
November 3, 2022
A great book.
I really enjoyed following Teya on her journey to find her sister.
She encounters lots of mystical creatures, witches and Fae along the way.
I look forward to reading book 2
I really enjoyed following Teya on her journey to find her sister.
She encounters lots of mystical creatures, witches and Fae along the way.
I look forward to reading book 2
July 30, 2024
Overall: 3 stars
This was a highly entertaining if unevenly paced fantasy romance with fae that are actually scary and creepy, which I appreciate. Most of the faerie creatures here are grotesque but all - including the pretty boy fae - are cruel and hungry (literally) for human suffering and, sometimes, flesh.
There's a surprising amount of gore, blood, and guts: it's not super graphic, but there are a lot of injuries and monsters shredding flesh and all that, so be prepared.
The book's plot kept me entertained, but the pacing and some of the plot reveals and twists are a bit uneven or heavy-handed: nevertheless, the book's story moves along briskly, and there's plenty of (un)expected twists and turns to keep things fun.
The story's greatest weakness, I think, is actually its characters. Teya, our protagonist, is a particularly bland cipher who appears to have only two moods: 1) moody and pouting; or 2) moody and rebelling, usually by running off and almost getting herself killed. Teya gets rescued a zillion times because she has a fit of broody pique and dashes off to where the wild things are and they nearly chomp her, which she knows they're going to do, but she just can't help herself. What makes this characterization more annoying is that the book opens with Teya and her mother living alone in a contemporary "real world" England, and both are clearly struggling with depression and PTSD. There are some truly sad and affecting scenes of them trying to connect socially and failing to find connection or joy, and THOSE scenes held a lot more pathos and depth than all of Teya's temper tantrums in the fae world.
The hero, fae Laphaniel, is uhm....nice I guess? He seems like an all right dude. The only real characterization we get of him is that he's a bit of a loner and ends up super loyal to Teya and goes to the ends of the earth to save her over and over again. Which is nice of him, but that's kind of all he's got going on.
In general, this book's plot and story are stronger than its characters or romance, but if you're looking for a quick read with fae that are actually scary and a plot that bounces along with some interesting twists, give this a shot.
This was a highly entertaining if unevenly paced fantasy romance with fae that are actually scary and creepy, which I appreciate. Most of the faerie creatures here are grotesque but all - including the pretty boy fae - are cruel and hungry (literally) for human suffering and, sometimes, flesh.
There's a surprising amount of gore, blood, and guts: it's not super graphic, but there are a lot of injuries and monsters shredding flesh and all that, so be prepared.
The book's plot kept me entertained, but the pacing and some of the plot reveals and twists are a bit uneven or heavy-handed: nevertheless, the book's story moves along briskly, and there's plenty of (un)expected twists and turns to keep things fun.
The story's greatest weakness, I think, is actually its characters. Teya, our protagonist, is a particularly bland cipher who appears to have only two moods: 1) moody and pouting; or 2) moody and rebelling, usually by running off and almost getting herself killed. Teya gets rescued a zillion times because she has a fit of broody pique and dashes off to where the wild things are and they nearly chomp her, which she knows they're going to do, but she just can't help herself. What makes this characterization more annoying is that the book opens with Teya and her mother living alone in a contemporary "real world" England, and both are clearly struggling with depression and PTSD. There are some truly sad and affecting scenes of them trying to connect socially and failing to find connection or joy, and THOSE scenes held a lot more pathos and depth than all of Teya's temper tantrums in the fae world.
The hero, fae Laphaniel, is uhm....nice I guess? He seems like an all right dude. The only real characterization we get of him is that he's a bit of a loner and ends up super loyal to Teya and goes to the ends of the earth to save her over and over again. Which is nice of him, but that's kind of all he's got going on.
In general, this book's plot and story are stronger than its characters or romance, but if you're looking for a quick read with fae that are actually scary and a plot that bounces along with some interesting twists, give this a shot.
June 7, 2021
Darling, There Are Wolves in the Woods takes place in a dark world of faeries (none of whom are truly good) and humans (who are as broken as real humans tend to be!) The fey worldbuilding here is rich and evocative. I also enjoyed the romance—there’s more than you might think from the blurb, and I really liked following that part of the storyline!
The tone ended up being a bit dark for me, and I struggled in connecting with/truly liking the main characters. Those are super-subjective critiques, though, so I’m not a bit surprised that a lot of readers enjoyed the book more than I did. If you love dark settings and broken characters, this may be the perfect story for you.
I saw that some reviews of the first version referred to editing. This is the second edition of the book, and it’s well edited. It reads smoothly with few errors, a professionally produced book. (And that cover is gorgeous!)
The tone ended up being a bit dark for me, and I struggled in connecting with/truly liking the main characters. Those are super-subjective critiques, though, so I’m not a bit surprised that a lot of readers enjoyed the book more than I did. If you love dark settings and broken characters, this may be the perfect story for you.
I saw that some reviews of the first version referred to editing. This is the second edition of the book, and it’s well edited. It reads smoothly with few errors, a professionally produced book. (And that cover is gorgeous!)
September 7, 2019
Updated review!
5 stars
The writing is reading much stronger! This author has grown in her craft, and it shows. I fell in love with the hauntingly beautiful descriptions and real-feeling characters. If you love dark romance, faeries, and fantasy worlds that feel beautiful and dangerous, this trilogy is for you!
Dark Fantasy
3 stars
The author has a talent for giving vivid descriptions. The book could have used one more round of editing, although that did not distract from the story. It took a little bit to interest me, but I took a liking to the characters and plot later on. The latter half of the book pulled me in and made me want to know what will happen in the books to come. This was a job well done as a debut novel!
5 stars
The writing is reading much stronger! This author has grown in her craft, and it shows. I fell in love with the hauntingly beautiful descriptions and real-feeling characters. If you love dark romance, faeries, and fantasy worlds that feel beautiful and dangerous, this trilogy is for you!
Dark Fantasy
3 stars
The author has a talent for giving vivid descriptions. The book could have used one more round of editing, although that did not distract from the story. It took a little bit to interest me, but I took a liking to the characters and plot later on. The latter half of the book pulled me in and made me want to know what will happen in the books to come. This was a job well done as a debut novel!
August 24, 2019
I received a copy of this book through Voracious Readers & I’m so pleased about that!
I really enjoyed this book, it was a real page turner. I could not put it down,
I really wanted to know what was going to happen next. I loved the characters, the settings. The prose was enjoyable, I liked the way the author wrote the details around what was happening.
Lovely evocative language and emotive story. I really hope there is a sequel as I want to know what happens next.
I really enjoyed this book, it was a real page turner. I could not put it down,
I really wanted to know what was going to happen next. I loved the characters, the settings. The prose was enjoyable, I liked the way the author wrote the details around what was happening.
Lovely evocative language and emotive story. I really hope there is a sequel as I want to know what happens next.
December 31, 2019
This is both a faery tale and a romance. I love stories written about faeries and supernatural creatures, and this book features a haunting, and admittedly sometimes sad, tale of the human world and faerie world intersecting. The author's descriptions were what really captured me. Even when the world of the fae was sinister, it was still hauntingly beautiful and enticing. Creating that vision with words requires talent. Well done :)
October 12, 2023
I'm not really sure how I feel about this story. I for the life of me can't see why either of them love the other. I didn't really feel that blossoming love from them nor did I feel any sexual tension to warrant either tiny bit of spice. However, I'm a ho for wicked fae and this is filled with wicked fae.
May 29, 2021
This book took me by surprise in all the best ways! Its very different from what i usually go for, but i was grabbed from the first moment and the story took my breath away.
There is a lot of exploration into fae and their lifestyle, the world building is stunning and beautifully dark. Its very bittersweet in areas showing the cruelty of their kind, but also the beauty and the power in every moment. All of the glamours, charm, dancing and magic throughout truly captured me.
"We always want more than we ever get."
I really enjoyed the mc Teya, with all of her flaws and courage. She is foolish and reckless at times, she makes mistakes and doesn't think things through but she is so much more. The story is wonderful in that it allows to see that she isn't perfect, but still root for her and hope she wins because she is such a fun and loveable character.
Teya has so much development and finds herself through this journey, her quest to save her sister and falling in love with Laphanial along the way. She has so much happen to her and yet she doesn't lose track of her goal. It takes a while but she is such a strong individual and i adored her standing up for herself. Not just letting events happen, that she got to make the scene hers even if it wasn't always in the way she hoped.
He was their equal in beauty and wickedness. He could be cruel just as quickly as he could be lovely.
Laphaniel is complex and fascinating from his first scene, its very much a love/hate relationship and if you enjoy enemies to lovers these two are perfect! Their relationship is full of tension in every way and when they finally fall its incredible. Its not perfect, they're both a mess and have their own struggles but together they just fit despite everything else.
I really enjoyed the romance and their growth as a couple, how they try to protect each other constantly and try to understand regardless of their differences. All of the passion and chemistry between them is lovely.
Love is painful, and when it is at its very best, it's excruciating. You are not really in love unless your heart aches and your body wishes it to stop, but your very soul refuses to let go.
While there are a number of side cast i could mention, majority appear for small amounts of time with various impact upon the story and i don't want to ruin those. I will say i enjoyed Gabriel and Lily was fascinating, the fae court in general are intriguing though.
This book ends with it still open, however it does close this part of the tale and so im excited to read the next book. Look forward to finding out what happens next for Teya and Laphaniel 💕
There is a lot of exploration into fae and their lifestyle, the world building is stunning and beautifully dark. Its very bittersweet in areas showing the cruelty of their kind, but also the beauty and the power in every moment. All of the glamours, charm, dancing and magic throughout truly captured me.
"We always want more than we ever get."
I really enjoyed the mc Teya, with all of her flaws and courage. She is foolish and reckless at times, she makes mistakes and doesn't think things through but she is so much more. The story is wonderful in that it allows to see that she isn't perfect, but still root for her and hope she wins because she is such a fun and loveable character.
Teya has so much development and finds herself through this journey, her quest to save her sister and falling in love with Laphanial along the way. She has so much happen to her and yet she doesn't lose track of her goal. It takes a while but she is such a strong individual and i adored her standing up for herself. Not just letting events happen, that she got to make the scene hers even if it wasn't always in the way she hoped.
He was their equal in beauty and wickedness. He could be cruel just as quickly as he could be lovely.
Laphaniel is complex and fascinating from his first scene, its very much a love/hate relationship and if you enjoy enemies to lovers these two are perfect! Their relationship is full of tension in every way and when they finally fall its incredible. Its not perfect, they're both a mess and have their own struggles but together they just fit despite everything else.
I really enjoyed the romance and their growth as a couple, how they try to protect each other constantly and try to understand regardless of their differences. All of the passion and chemistry between them is lovely.
Love is painful, and when it is at its very best, it's excruciating. You are not really in love unless your heart aches and your body wishes it to stop, but your very soul refuses to let go.
While there are a number of side cast i could mention, majority appear for small amounts of time with various impact upon the story and i don't want to ruin those. I will say i enjoyed Gabriel and Lily was fascinating, the fae court in general are intriguing though.
This book ends with it still open, however it does close this part of the tale and so im excited to read the next book. Look forward to finding out what happens next for Teya and Laphaniel 💕
January 14, 2022
Teya Jenkins' sister is taken by faeries when they are children, and Teya has never forgiven herself for it. Her guilt drains away her happiness and self-worth, and the only thing she can think of doing is finding her sister. When ten years later she finds herself in realm of faeries, a gorgeous elf named Laphaniel tries to distract her from her goal. He is tempting, oh so very tempting, and while she loses her heart, she struggles to focus on her mission. Yet will that one thing be the death of her?
This is a delicious dark fantasy romance. The writing is magnificent. The descriptions are lush, so real. I could close my eyes and feel like I'm seeing the beauty and terrors of the fae realm. While on the surface this is a typical fairy tale: fairies steal away one sister and the other risks her life to save her. Yet there are so many layers and unexpected twists and turns. When I say this is a dark romance, I do mean dark. And not just in the way everything wants to kill Teya. Teya, herself, is self-destructive. Having lost her sister has broken her, and living in a family devastated by loss has left her unable to trust. When the beautiful Laphaniel comes into the picture, he never pretends he is anything other than a dangerous creature. Yet he is a broken individual himself. The two of them together is chaotic and heart-breaking and marvelous. It's sometimes hard to get by their flaws, but the story is worth it. I'll definitely be picking up the next one.
This is a delicious dark fantasy romance. The writing is magnificent. The descriptions are lush, so real. I could close my eyes and feel like I'm seeing the beauty and terrors of the fae realm. While on the surface this is a typical fairy tale: fairies steal away one sister and the other risks her life to save her. Yet there are so many layers and unexpected twists and turns. When I say this is a dark romance, I do mean dark. And not just in the way everything wants to kill Teya. Teya, herself, is self-destructive. Having lost her sister has broken her, and living in a family devastated by loss has left her unable to trust. When the beautiful Laphaniel comes into the picture, he never pretends he is anything other than a dangerous creature. Yet he is a broken individual himself. The two of them together is chaotic and heart-breaking and marvelous. It's sometimes hard to get by their flaws, but the story is worth it. I'll definitely be picking up the next one.
March 28, 2023
My TL;DW for this book is: I’m not sure what to make of it. There is lots of movement in the book, and yet I can’t shake the impression that a lot of it is wasteful, unfocused. However, I could also argue that’s the point of it, to observe the setting, to be drawn into it. And there is, in fact, plenty of the setting to be drawn into. If that sounds like something you’d want to read, you are very much welcome to dig in. That being said, I can’t, as of right now, promise that the rest of the trilogy will hold the same appeal.
And now for the deeper dive into this book: The plot of the book follows Teya, a young lady from a broken home, one still reeling from the loss of a daughter, and a father. She makes the decision to venture again into the woods where her sister was lost, hoping to find her. The synopsis hints at the first venture being her idea, but the actual book doesn’t explain it one way or another. Her venture is nearly stopped by Laphaniel, one of the faeries who initially took her sister away from her, and one whose presence and influence will shape the course of her rescue quest to a sizable degree.
Sounds like a pretty interesting plot, wouldn’t you say? I would think so as well. However, this book has an unfortunate case of Sagging Middle Syndrome. A lot of the book is spent in a montage of how Teya and Laphaniel spend many months together, building up their relationship and connection to each other, only for the author to turn and reveal those were built on fake pretenses, and then still trying to salvage them. Only about half the book actually follows the plot and shows the characters trying to accomplish their goals. Lydia wanted this book to be both a romance and an adventure story, but it’s really only towards the end that she was actually capable of merging these two narrative threads. In the case of the romance, however, I don’t think she does enough to salvage it. I don’t find this relationship as compelling as she thinks it is.
To the book’s credit, though, it does actually seek to establish and develop character arcs for its joint leads, and in Teya’s case, comes up with a unique spin on the want/need divide such arcs typically fall under. Laphaniel’s arc, by contrast, is more conventional. He starts this book as a typical mischievous faerie, a being who likes having fun, especially at the expense of others, and can react violently to his entertainment prospects being cut short. He’s alluring, but dangerous, in the same way a character like Peter Pan would be. The narrative pushes him out of that role, out of that trope, by giving him someone to care for, and thereby fuelling the dichotomy of his character arc, and by giving him a backstory that clashes with it. It’s perhaps not bad, but there’s not enough for me to really delve into.
In fact, that’s my general thought when considering this book. It’s dripping with atmosphere, and the world looks like it can be so much more, so much broader than the book presents, but it doesn’t involve me in the setting, it doesn’t explore it in a meaningful way. If I may contrast this book with another debut featuring protagonists with missing relatives and a connection to a fantasy world they had no prior knowledge of, Into The Forgotten Forest brought multiple characters into its narrative, and allowed them to explore the setting and the connections between the various elements in a naturalistic and immersive way. I’m missing that here.
Overall, while I think this book is short on events and descriptions, the breadcrumbs it lays out do still hold my attention, and ignite my curiosity.
And now for the deeper dive into this book: The plot of the book follows Teya, a young lady from a broken home, one still reeling from the loss of a daughter, and a father. She makes the decision to venture again into the woods where her sister was lost, hoping to find her. The synopsis hints at the first venture being her idea, but the actual book doesn’t explain it one way or another. Her venture is nearly stopped by Laphaniel, one of the faeries who initially took her sister away from her, and one whose presence and influence will shape the course of her rescue quest to a sizable degree.
Sounds like a pretty interesting plot, wouldn’t you say? I would think so as well. However, this book has an unfortunate case of Sagging Middle Syndrome. A lot of the book is spent in a montage of how Teya and Laphaniel spend many months together, building up their relationship and connection to each other, only for the author to turn and reveal those were built on fake pretenses, and then still trying to salvage them. Only about half the book actually follows the plot and shows the characters trying to accomplish their goals. Lydia wanted this book to be both a romance and an adventure story, but it’s really only towards the end that she was actually capable of merging these two narrative threads. In the case of the romance, however, I don’t think she does enough to salvage it. I don’t find this relationship as compelling as she thinks it is.
To the book’s credit, though, it does actually seek to establish and develop character arcs for its joint leads, and in Teya’s case, comes up with a unique spin on the want/need divide such arcs typically fall under. Laphaniel’s arc, by contrast, is more conventional. He starts this book as a typical mischievous faerie, a being who likes having fun, especially at the expense of others, and can react violently to his entertainment prospects being cut short. He’s alluring, but dangerous, in the same way a character like Peter Pan would be. The narrative pushes him out of that role, out of that trope, by giving him someone to care for, and thereby fuelling the dichotomy of his character arc, and by giving him a backstory that clashes with it. It’s perhaps not bad, but there’s not enough for me to really delve into.
In fact, that’s my general thought when considering this book. It’s dripping with atmosphere, and the world looks like it can be so much more, so much broader than the book presents, but it doesn’t involve me in the setting, it doesn’t explore it in a meaningful way. If I may contrast this book with another debut featuring protagonists with missing relatives and a connection to a fantasy world they had no prior knowledge of, Into The Forgotten Forest brought multiple characters into its narrative, and allowed them to explore the setting and the connections between the various elements in a naturalistic and immersive way. I’m missing that here.
Overall, while I think this book is short on events and descriptions, the breadcrumbs it lays out do still hold my attention, and ignite my curiosity.
April 17, 2021
What a gorgeously written novel this is! Fae books are iffy for me...I've read many YA books and for some reason, they don't usually capture my interest. I think it has to do with the cruelty and dishonesty, the trickery involved with the fae, and their indifferences toward humans. But this novel had me hooked right from the start. The author has a true gift for descriptive, evocative writing. I felt completely part of the story. There were a few parts where I felt the pacing start to drag a little, but it picked right back up and toward the end, I couldn't stop reading. I am really looking forward to the next book!
November 10, 2021
I really enjoyed the writing style of this book. The prose were eloquent, never overdone or over the top. The author does an amazing job describing not just the environment, but of what the characters are going through. I enjoyed Teya and I liked the fact that her intentions driving her weren't the noblest, because they didn't need to be. It has a great starting hook that pulls you along because you (or at least I) really sympathize with Teya and want to see her succeed. A little dark for my current tastes, but that's purely a personal preference based on past reads. For those who enjoy dark fantasy with cruel fey, you'll feel right at home with this!
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