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Realm of Fey #1
A Betrayal of Storms
Perfect for fans of A Court of Thorns and Roses and From Blood and Ash, this new, fantasy romance about a half-fey boy and his personal guard preventing a war between the realms.
Wychwood, the realm of the fey prepare for war against the humans who hate, hunt and kill them for coin. Aided by the unclaimed, destructive power of the murdered, forgotten Winter Court, they ready their numbers for complete domination of the human realm.
All until Robin Vale reveals himself to be the last Icethorn heir. A hope for the humans he has grown up amongst, but to the detriment of many who would see him dead before ruining their years of preparation.
Robin finds allies during his discovery of a realm he has long since feared. Gideon, a fey warrior who aids as a distraction during the long nights. Althea, a stern princess hellbent on stopping the human hunters from killing her kind.
Thrust into a world of betrayal, murder and lies he must survive long enough to have the choice; listen to fate and claim his families power, or let it wreak havoc on a realm that turned its back on him for becoming who he was truly meant to be.
But a dark evil is brewing, monsters have returned and the scales of power are being forced by a hand who longs for revenge.
Wychwood, the realm of the fey prepare for war against the humans who hate, hunt and kill them for coin. Aided by the unclaimed, destructive power of the murdered, forgotten Winter Court, they ready their numbers for complete domination of the human realm.
All until Robin Vale reveals himself to be the last Icethorn heir. A hope for the humans he has grown up amongst, but to the detriment of many who would see him dead before ruining their years of preparation.
Robin finds allies during his discovery of a realm he has long since feared. Gideon, a fey warrior who aids as a distraction during the long nights. Althea, a stern princess hellbent on stopping the human hunters from killing her kind.
Thrust into a world of betrayal, murder and lies he must survive long enough to have the choice; listen to fate and claim his families power, or let it wreak havoc on a realm that turned its back on him for becoming who he was truly meant to be.
But a dark evil is brewing, monsters have returned and the scales of power are being forced by a hand who longs for revenge.
544 pages, ebook
First published January 8, 2022
871 people are currently reading
25185 people want to read
About the author
Ben Alderson
31 books14.4k followersBen Alderson is a #1 Amazon bestselling author. His stories are set in fantasy worlds filled with magic, adventure and MM romance. Ben lives in Oxfordshire and, when not writing, can be found reading, taking Winston - his Labrador - out for long walks, or obsessing over Marvel’s The Scarlet Witch.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 527 reviews
January 10, 2022
dnf 50%
Interesting idea, extremely poor execution.
There were a ton of of structural elements to this book that left me frustrated and rolling my eyes too many times for me to continue.
First, in good literature, when excruciating, deep truths come out about a character, the answers are woven into the plot, we learn about them in tense, awkward, devastating ways, etc.
That didn't happen here.
Instead, the character Robin would ask a question about himself, and the answer would be given, with no grace, in the next line.
For example: I wonder why my mother mother gave me an iron bracelet similar to that of the ___? (spoiler)
Answer, literally in the next line: Why, it's to suppress you, of course!
The answer should have been guessed by the mc, then drawn up later the more the reader finds out about his mother.
There were more moments like this, such as Robin questioning who he is, and again with no technique in the reveal of the answers.
Another one of the many things that bothered me: These weird breaking-the-third-wall moments.
For example, when the character Althena said something along the lines of, "This is probably the most exciting thing that has happened to you. All that's waiting for you is a normal, mundane life."
UGH. Where do I start?
First of all, everyone loves a good, going-on-an-adventure-from-normal-life trope, yet it does not need to be spelled out so blatantly an inelegantly. The reader, in fact, has very little idea of what Robin's life was like before, so when a character blurts out, 'but what about the TROPE?' it's a little off-putting.
ESPECIALLY because Althena had no idea what human life was like herself. In The Chronicles of Narnia, when Mr. Tumnus asks about life wherever Lucy is from, it's an interesting and exciting concept for him, and he wants to know all about 'Wardrobe,' as he knows little else beyond life in the woods of Narnia. The reader most DEFINITELY does not expect him to say 'what a mundane life you must lead,' as, needless to say, it would have broken-the-third-wall, as how could he know what that life is like?
Another rant: WORLD BUILDING
It simply wasn't...whimsical enough. Nothing like the pages of vivid detail in a Holly Black book, or others who've copied her fae books since 'Tithe.'
When the elves started talking about the 'cost' of a room and economics, it totally pulled me away from the enchanted realm I was somewhat hoping to picture the fairy-world to be, where things are supposed to be whimsical, mysterious, and unknown. 'Cost,' is more the 'mundane' concept, Althena.
Ugh.
There were other things I could pick out but I've given this book enough time.
Interesting idea, extremely poor execution.
There were a ton of of structural elements to this book that left me frustrated and rolling my eyes too many times for me to continue.
First, in good literature, when excruciating, deep truths come out about a character, the answers are woven into the plot, we learn about them in tense, awkward, devastating ways, etc.
That didn't happen here.
Instead, the character Robin would ask a question about himself, and the answer would be given, with no grace, in the next line.
For example: I wonder why my mother mother gave me an iron bracelet similar to that of the ___? (spoiler)
Answer, literally in the next line: Why, it's to suppress you, of course!
The answer should have been guessed by the mc, then drawn up later the more the reader finds out about his mother.
There were more moments like this, such as Robin questioning who he is, and again with no technique in the reveal of the answers.
Another one of the many things that bothered me: These weird breaking-the-third-wall moments.
For example, when the character Althena said something along the lines of, "This is probably the most exciting thing that has happened to you. All that's waiting for you is a normal, mundane life."
UGH. Where do I start?
First of all, everyone loves a good, going-on-an-adventure-from-normal-life trope, yet it does not need to be spelled out so blatantly an inelegantly. The reader, in fact, has very little idea of what Robin's life was like before, so when a character blurts out, 'but what about the TROPE?' it's a little off-putting.
ESPECIALLY because Althena had no idea what human life was like herself. In The Chronicles of Narnia, when Mr. Tumnus asks about life wherever Lucy is from, it's an interesting and exciting concept for him, and he wants to know all about 'Wardrobe,' as he knows little else beyond life in the woods of Narnia. The reader most DEFINITELY does not expect him to say 'what a mundane life you must lead,' as, needless to say, it would have broken-the-third-wall, as how could he know what that life is like?
Another rant: WORLD BUILDING
It simply wasn't...whimsical enough. Nothing like the pages of vivid detail in a Holly Black book, or others who've copied her fae books since 'Tithe.'
When the elves started talking about the 'cost' of a room and economics, it totally pulled me away from the enchanted realm I was somewhat hoping to picture the fairy-world to be, where things are supposed to be whimsical, mysterious, and unknown. 'Cost,' is more the 'mundane' concept, Althena.
Ugh.
There were other things I could pick out but I've given this book enough time.
September 1, 2023
DNF at 50%. This book was bad. Pretty Bad. Most of my gripes with it are technical and stylistic ones, but the content itself wasn't much either.
First of all, the writing. God, it's awful. The prose tries to be elaborate and flowery but falls short, filled with repitition, tautologies and flawed grammar. The dialogue is stiff and inconsistent; one moment the characters attempt to speak like they just walked out of a Shakespearean play, only to revert to the vocabulary of high schoolers the next. It's rather jarring.
The plot is rushed and generic with unimaginative worldbuilding, and the characters have no development or depth whatsoever.
I wanted to like this book, I really did; I'm yearning for a good mlm fantasy, but A Betrayal of Storms definitely isn't it.
First of all, the writing. God, it's awful. The prose tries to be elaborate and flowery but falls short, filled with repitition, tautologies and flawed grammar. The dialogue is stiff and inconsistent; one moment the characters attempt to speak like they just walked out of a Shakespearean play, only to revert to the vocabulary of high schoolers the next. It's rather jarring.
The plot is rushed and generic with unimaginative worldbuilding, and the characters have no development or depth whatsoever.
I wanted to like this book, I really did; I'm yearning for a good mlm fantasy, but A Betrayal of Storms definitely isn't it.
November 5, 2024
You know that there are exceptionally good books that burrow into our heads and feelings and stay there. And then there are books like this one. I have no words for how extraordinarily perfect it is for me.
I have wanted to read this book for a long time and am incredibly grateful that it has been republished. It is also my first book by this author and I was afraid that I would fall in love.
Fantasy can sometimes be a difficult genre. There are so many stories that unfortunately sound the same, even though every author creates something unique.
Perhaps it is not the story itself that is so impressive to me, but the writing.
For me, the style is absolute perfection. Unagitated, extremely detailed but so interwoven into the narrative that it seems incredibly light. The world only opens up slowly, there is no info-dumping, you learn the things you need when you need them and not before. You are so involved in the character of Robin that you experience everything up close like him.
I could really visualize what it was like to stand barefoot in a puddle of vomit. And yes, even if that doesn't sound nice, the book isn't nice either, the story is brutal, so it's something that makes me incredibly happy when I can really grasp things like that.
So, and now I have a bit of a problem, because these were lines I had to get rid of when I had only read the first 60 pages. Goodness I hope the rest can stand up to my praise ...
I've now read half of it and I'm still happy. Small warning, the story is not only brutal but also quite bloody. And I'm super excited to see who the bad guys turn out to be. 🍿🍿🍿
This is a slow-burning story and it's high-fanatsy with a nice hint of spice, but that comes quite late even though you can feel the attraction between Robin and Erix.
Also, they have a nice banter going on.
„Who knows, perhaps the next time you try and attack me, it will be me who hits the ground first.”
“Trust me,” I said, fighting the urge to smile as I took the blade from him without thanks. “I will get you on your back one way or another–” I swallowed hard, a shiver of embarrassment spreading down my spine.
“Careful, little bird,” Erix said softly. “Words like that will get you in far more trouble than brandishing a blade with an untrained hand.” “Is that so?” My cheeks warmed. 😳💞😳
Overall, however, I wouldn't really call it a romance. They have a bit of sex but not much happens between them. The book is driven by the plot alone and it's primarily a fantasy story.
I really enjoyed everything and even read it very slowly, which is an exception for me. I didn't skip any of the words, really, that rarely happens with me, I usually skip and don't read sentences completely.
So, I seem to be perfectly made for Ben Alderson, or he for me.
Anyway, there's a lot of action later on and my heart went into a wild gallop. Really well done.
“As long as tomorrow is a possibility with you, I would do anything to ensure it.”
A tomorrow. A simple sentiment that meant so much to me. 🫠🫠🫠
Hmmm, and then there's a tasty bonus chapter, nicely enough from Erix's point of view, very nice, I've been wanting to know what's going on in his head the whole time.
So I've tried to understand the bad reviews but I just can't. If you don't like fantasy in general, you shouldn't read this book, everything else is in the eye of the beholder I guess and mine can't find any faults in this book.
I think it's completely underrated and deserves so much more. Maybe the previous release was worse? Who knows, I love this book, basta!
I have wanted to read this book for a long time and am incredibly grateful that it has been republished. It is also my first book by this author and I was afraid that I would fall in love.
Fantasy can sometimes be a difficult genre. There are so many stories that unfortunately sound the same, even though every author creates something unique.
Perhaps it is not the story itself that is so impressive to me, but the writing.
For me, the style is absolute perfection. Unagitated, extremely detailed but so interwoven into the narrative that it seems incredibly light. The world only opens up slowly, there is no info-dumping, you learn the things you need when you need them and not before. You are so involved in the character of Robin that you experience everything up close like him.
I could really visualize what it was like to stand barefoot in a puddle of vomit. And yes, even if that doesn't sound nice, the book isn't nice either, the story is brutal, so it's something that makes me incredibly happy when I can really grasp things like that.
So, and now I have a bit of a problem, because these were lines I had to get rid of when I had only read the first 60 pages. Goodness I hope the rest can stand up to my praise ...
I've now read half of it and I'm still happy. Small warning, the story is not only brutal but also quite bloody. And I'm super excited to see who the bad guys turn out to be. 🍿🍿🍿
This is a slow-burning story and it's high-fanatsy with a nice hint of spice, but that comes quite late even though you can feel the attraction between Robin and Erix.
Also, they have a nice banter going on.
„Who knows, perhaps the next time you try and attack me, it will be me who hits the ground first.”
“Trust me,” I said, fighting the urge to smile as I took the blade from him without thanks. “I will get you on your back one way or another–” I swallowed hard, a shiver of embarrassment spreading down my spine.
“Careful, little bird,” Erix said softly. “Words like that will get you in far more trouble than brandishing a blade with an untrained hand.” “Is that so?” My cheeks warmed. 😳💞😳
Overall, however, I wouldn't really call it a romance. They have a bit of sex but not much happens between them. The book is driven by the plot alone and it's primarily a fantasy story.
I really enjoyed everything and even read it very slowly, which is an exception for me. I didn't skip any of the words, really, that rarely happens with me, I usually skip and don't read sentences completely.
So, I seem to be perfectly made for Ben Alderson, or he for me.
Anyway, there's a lot of action later on and my heart went into a wild gallop. Really well done.
“As long as tomorrow is a possibility with you, I would do anything to ensure it.”
A tomorrow. A simple sentiment that meant so much to me. 🫠🫠🫠
Hmmm, and then there's a tasty bonus chapter, nicely enough from Erix's point of view, very nice, I've been wanting to know what's going on in his head the whole time.
So I've tried to understand the bad reviews but I just can't. If you don't like fantasy in general, you shouldn't read this book, everything else is in the eye of the beholder I guess and mine can't find any faults in this book.
I think it's completely underrated and deserves so much more. Maybe the previous release was worse? Who knows, I love this book, basta!
November 4, 2024
An easy-breezy romantasy for those who love a bodyguard trope and longing for more LGBTQ+ rep in the romantasy sphere. It’s by no means anything ground breaking, but I can’t fault it for falling back on well loved tropes. I do wish it had pushed the tension a little further as that’s what always gets me in a romance, and the main character felt a little juvenile. But I feel this may be a case of me preferring much darker stories, so if you’re a romantasy fan and love the court politics of fae realms and hidden magic, give this one a go!
NOTE: I do not recommend the audiobook. The tone and inflection of the narrator kills any tension, the cadence feels wrong somehow and it reads even more juvenile. My rating doesn’t reflect the audiobook as this doesn’t feel fair to the book, but I wanted to add in my thoughts on it nonetheless.
NOTE: I do not recommend the audiobook. The tone and inflection of the narrator kills any tension, the cadence feels wrong somehow and it reads even more juvenile. My rating doesn’t reflect the audiobook as this doesn’t feel fair to the book, but I wanted to add in my thoughts on it nonetheless.
August 23, 2022
// half spoilers, not really
This book was advertised as 'perfect for fans of A Court of Thorns and Roses' which, in hindsight, should've been my first warning. Around the 200 page mark I was wondering if I was reading the same book as everyone else. Everyone who I've seen review this book has had nothing but praise for it: 5 stars across the board. the only review I saw that did actually agree with me, didn't even finish the book.
I read 535 pages of it.
Not only was the plot... boring, but the writing was... well... terrible. To be fair, I reckon that I would've enjoyed the plot... if the writing was better. It was... overwritten... and repetitive. And overused... ellipsis...
and it was fucking annoying. I hope my demonstration has proved how infuriating it is to turn the page to 5 sets of ellipsis on one single page. Nothing should ever call for 5 ellipsis... nothing.
Another thing that was repetitive was the use of the word 'pregnant' as an adjective - which is weird considering it's an M/M romance.
Speaking about the romance, the blurb promised me Gideon, a fey warrior. And I don't know if this is a mistake or not but every description of this book mentions Gideon. And after reading all 535 pages I have yet to meet him. Honest to God, there is not a single mention of Gideon in this entire book. Unless I missed it, I'm pretty sure his name is Erix. This actually really disappointed me, I was really excited to meet Gideon, because maybe he actually had a good personality.
All the characters in this book were pretty one note and annoying. The main character especially. One of the 'betrayals' in the book is from a character who was introduced around halfway and absolutely no one had anything good to say about him (me included).
Except for the main character, who doesn't listen because 'he's been nice to me so I trust him' and then gets shocked when he (inevitably) gets betrayed. To be fair, I did enjoy the betrayal that happened only minutes before. It genuinely shocked me. Mostly because I wasn't really paying attention.
I think 'A Betrayal of Storms' is perfect for ACOTAR fans. Unfortunately, I am not one of them. And this made me consider 3 stars, because maybe this book just wasn't for me. But the physical pain that I experienced during this book wouldn't allow me that extra star.
The only condition in which I would ever read the second book is if I got sent it for free. So Ben, if you want me to slate your book again, hmu.
This book was advertised as 'perfect for fans of A Court of Thorns and Roses' which, in hindsight, should've been my first warning. Around the 200 page mark I was wondering if I was reading the same book as everyone else. Everyone who I've seen review this book has had nothing but praise for it: 5 stars across the board. the only review I saw that did actually agree with me, didn't even finish the book.
I read 535 pages of it.
Not only was the plot... boring, but the writing was... well... terrible. To be fair, I reckon that I would've enjoyed the plot... if the writing was better. It was... overwritten... and repetitive. And overused... ellipsis...
and it was fucking annoying. I hope my demonstration has proved how infuriating it is to turn the page to 5 sets of ellipsis on one single page. Nothing should ever call for 5 ellipsis... nothing.
Another thing that was repetitive was the use of the word 'pregnant' as an adjective - which is weird considering it's an M/M romance.
Speaking about the romance, the blurb promised me Gideon, a fey warrior. And I don't know if this is a mistake or not but every description of this book mentions Gideon. And after reading all 535 pages I have yet to meet him. Honest to God, there is not a single mention of Gideon in this entire book. Unless I missed it, I'm pretty sure his name is Erix. This actually really disappointed me, I was really excited to meet Gideon, because maybe he actually had a good personality.
All the characters in this book were pretty one note and annoying. The main character especially. One of the 'betrayals' in the book is from a character who was introduced around halfway and absolutely no one had anything good to say about him (me included).
Except for the main character, who doesn't listen because 'he's been nice to me so I trust him' and then gets shocked when he (inevitably) gets betrayed. To be fair, I did enjoy the betrayal that happened only minutes before. It genuinely shocked me. Mostly because I wasn't really paying attention.
I think 'A Betrayal of Storms' is perfect for ACOTAR fans. Unfortunately, I am not one of them. And this made me consider 3 stars, because maybe this book just wasn't for me. But the physical pain that I experienced during this book wouldn't allow me that extra star.
The only condition in which I would ever read the second book is if I got sent it for free. So Ben, if you want me to slate your book again, hmu.
December 24, 2024
I was very excited to devour this MM fantasy series but quickly got bogged down by the strange phrasing. I understand that readers often expect to read fantasy novels written in a certain way that lends itself to a more formal, vaguely British tone, but there’s a way to convey a quaint sense of ‘otherness’ (this is a book about a different land) without resorting to stilted dialogue and slightly overwrought language. Not, to mention, excessive, but, also strange uses, of commas in, strange places. There were a fair number of typos and errors that took away from my enjoyment of the book. I could’ve overlooked all of that if the romance between Robin and Erix was more compelling. I love slow burns done right with pining and/or visible attraction but the whole thing was meh. I can’t decide if I’ll bother with book 2. I don’t like leaving series unfinished but this one was a letdown for me. There were many good and creative elements to the book and we don’t have a ton of choice in the MM genre so maybe give this a shot if you love MM romantasy.
Saying this book would appeal to fans of Sarah J Maas is doing the book a disservice. It got me to pick up the book, but comparing a conventionally published, well edited expensive production of an immensely popular series to an indie publication that I’m gonna go ahead and assume is self-edited is unfair. My expectations were probably too high due to the marketing (I added the book to my TBR after watching a TikTok by the author) and then I felt let down. Anyway the book wasn’t bad and the author’s TikTok videos are great, so maybe I’ll get suckered into reading book 2 as well 😆. This was just an issue of expectations not matching reality, in my personal opinion.
Saying this book would appeal to fans of Sarah J Maas is doing the book a disservice. It got me to pick up the book, but comparing a conventionally published, well edited expensive production of an immensely popular series to an indie publication that I’m gonna go ahead and assume is self-edited is unfair. My expectations were probably too high due to the marketing (I added the book to my TBR after watching a TikTok by the author) and then I felt let down. Anyway the book wasn’t bad and the author’s TikTok videos are great, so maybe I’ll get suckered into reading book 2 as well 😆. This was just an issue of expectations not matching reality, in my personal opinion.
May 23, 2022
saw the author making a tiktok about this book, advertising it as a queer fantasy where "the prince falls in love with his personal guard instead of his princess". I'll admit, the LGBT repressntation was what convinced me to give this a try. Although this book does deliver on its promise of a queer relationship, it does nothing to salvage the rest of this book.
I do not fault the author for using the tried and tested (dare I say overused) trope of MC being some long lost power filled entity of a forgotten kingdom. If executed well, the trope can actually give rise to some interesting stories. In this case, it was not.
The worldbuilding was clunky and haphazard. I do empathise with MC's frustration, because just like him, no one in this book gives an actual clear explanation of what the hell is going on in this world, even though they are in a position to do so. Any attempts at worldbuilding are made through careless and half-hearted attempts at answering MC's questions, and are almost always interrupted by either an attack or seggsy time. WHICH IS ANNOYING! damn! i just want to understand what exactly the world of the fey is.
Also, the way each character speaks is somewhat off-putting. Yes, it is in a court setting. Yes, it is maybe set in more medieval times. But would it kill to make the MC talk more informally around his trusted friends or family? MC almost sounds like he's reciting lines from a play whenever he talks. It is cold, boring and does not flesh him out as a character at all. The shoddy worldbuilding, flat characters, and awkward wording, make this book somewhat of a chore to get through. Do yourself a favour and get another book to read, there are better options than this.
I do not fault the author for using the tried and tested (dare I say overused) trope of MC being some long lost power filled entity of a forgotten kingdom. If executed well, the trope can actually give rise to some interesting stories. In this case, it was not.
The worldbuilding was clunky and haphazard. I do empathise with MC's frustration, because just like him, no one in this book gives an actual clear explanation of what the hell is going on in this world, even though they are in a position to do so. Any attempts at worldbuilding are made through careless and half-hearted attempts at answering MC's questions, and are almost always interrupted by either an attack or seggsy time. WHICH IS ANNOYING! damn! i just want to understand what exactly the world of the fey is.
Also, the way each character speaks is somewhat off-putting. Yes, it is in a court setting. Yes, it is maybe set in more medieval times. But would it kill to make the MC talk more informally around his trusted friends or family? MC almost sounds like he's reciting lines from a play whenever he talks. It is cold, boring and does not flesh him out as a character at all. The shoddy worldbuilding, flat characters, and awkward wording, make this book somewhat of a chore to get through. Do yourself a favour and get another book to read, there are better options than this.
March 5, 2022
I found this book quite annoying, I'm afraid. I can't say that I've ever read a novel where a 24 year old combat trained male main character is so indistinguishable from a passive, diffident teenage heroine of a very tropey m/f romance novel. Erix, the love interest, is right out of that same kind of novel, complete with condescending diminutive pet name for the MC, smirking arrogance, and removal of Robin's personal autonomy in the name of heavy handed protection, all of which Robin just accepts. Of course, he accepts pretty much everything from everyone most of the time.
Honestly, this kind of characterization is why I tend to avoid m/f romances, or vet them very closely, so I was more than a little annoyed to unexpectedly find it here. To be fair, Robin is no shining light of intellectual prowess, so the heavy handed protection is kind of justified, but that doesn't make it any more appealing to me. Perhaps people who don't find the characterizations so annoying will find the romance more compelling but I really couldn't see why they were drawn to each other and there were no meaningful conversations or interactions that made that more clear.
I didn't find the other characters are very likable, logical or smart either. Information is withheld when sharing it sooner would be more productive and plot events hinge on capable people suddenly being incompetent. There's also nothing to culturally distinguish the Fae from humans but having magic. They're basically just large sorcerous humans with pointy ears.
All in all, this book wasn't for me, although I see that most readers enjoyed it. This was my first book by this author and it may be that my tastes just don't mesh with their style. Won't know until I try another.
Honestly, this kind of characterization is why I tend to avoid m/f romances, or vet them very closely, so I was more than a little annoyed to unexpectedly find it here. To be fair, Robin is no shining light of intellectual prowess, so the heavy handed protection is kind of justified, but that doesn't make it any more appealing to me. Perhaps people who don't find the characterizations so annoying will find the romance more compelling but I really couldn't see why they were drawn to each other and there were no meaningful conversations or interactions that made that more clear.
I didn't find the other characters are very likable, logical or smart either. Information is withheld when sharing it sooner would be more productive and plot events hinge on capable people suddenly being incompetent. There's also nothing to culturally distinguish the Fae from humans but having magic. They're basically just large sorcerous humans with pointy ears.
All in all, this book wasn't for me, although I see that most readers enjoyed it. This was my first book by this author and it may be that my tastes just don't mesh with their style. Won't know until I try another.
February 5, 2024
A Betrayal of Storms was quite the sweet romance, though it's plot didn't really bring anything new to the table. It took me a few months to finish this because I kept losing interest in the overarching storyline, though it wasn't bad by any means. The court politics were cool but unoriginal, so it was ultimately the prince x bodyguard trope that reeled me back in.
Robin and Erix made this story for me, though there's a pretty equal balance between their romance and the ice court plot. If anything, Alderson's writing kept the story going even when I wasn't gripped by the events unfolding around the mc. I adored Erix's gravitation to the 'little bird' nickname, and his unfaltering devotion to protect Robin even when Robin seemed set on making his own (often bad) decisions. Their dynamic was great.
I'm quite surprised this is going to have a sequel; all the way through, I was convinced this was a standalone, since the world never got big enough to seem like a second book was warranted. I honestly think A Betrayal of Storms would have been better off as a standalone, though I'm sure the court plot can be stretched a bit further. Overall, not a bad introduction to Alderson's work!
Robin and Erix made this story for me, though there's a pretty equal balance between their romance and the ice court plot. If anything, Alderson's writing kept the story going even when I wasn't gripped by the events unfolding around the mc. I adored Erix's gravitation to the 'little bird' nickname, and his unfaltering devotion to protect Robin even when Robin seemed set on making his own (often bad) decisions. Their dynamic was great.
I'm quite surprised this is going to have a sequel; all the way through, I was convinced this was a standalone, since the world never got big enough to seem like a second book was warranted. I honestly think A Betrayal of Storms would have been better off as a standalone, though I'm sure the court plot can be stretched a bit further. Overall, not a bad introduction to Alderson's work!
September 23, 2025
Fae BL is so freaking cute!!!!
😍 I’m completely in love with A Betrayal of Storm. I love Erix he is everything I adore in boy love fantasy. It’s such a wonderful read, so don’t wait, pick up the book. Thanks for your hard work, and I can’t wait for Book 2 to arrive✨📚🧚♂️🌈🧚🏽♂️
😍 I’m completely in love with A Betrayal of Storm. I love Erix he is everything I adore in boy love fantasy. It’s such a wonderful read, so don’t wait, pick up the book. Thanks for your hard work, and I can’t wait for Book 2 to arrive✨📚🧚♂️🌈🧚🏽♂️
April 9, 2025
I'm sorry, I really tried. I've started and stopped this book 4 or 5 times now in the first quarter, but I can't get over the writing style. Or the initial dialogue between those who I suppose will be the MMCs.
When I look away, I keep thinking it's somewhat interesting and I should try harder, but when I'm on the page I find myself skipping whole paragraphs trying to get to something that will suck me in the story.
This is probably one of those cases where I'm sure many other readers will love this book, and it just wasn't a good fit for me.
Imo some editor trimming and aiding in adding some bite to the story and the exchanges could really do wonders, as the writing itself is not awful, just... Diluted?
I may try again to read this in the future and amend my ratings if it did happen to be a me problem.
Thanks to NetGalley and the author for the ARC.
When I look away, I keep thinking it's somewhat interesting and I should try harder, but when I'm on the page I find myself skipping whole paragraphs trying to get to something that will suck me in the story.
This is probably one of those cases where I'm sure many other readers will love this book, and it just wasn't a good fit for me.
Imo some editor trimming and aiding in adding some bite to the story and the exchanges could really do wonders, as the writing itself is not awful, just... Diluted?
I may try again to read this in the future and amend my ratings if it did happen to be a me problem.
Thanks to NetGalley and the author for the ARC.
November 7, 2024
If you prefer watching videos, I've posted a full, spoiler-free discussion about my experience with A BETRAYAL OF STORMS on my BookTube Channel!
The following is a brief summary of the transcript taken from the above referenced video review.
For fans of high-stakes adventure, political intrigue, and the “lost heir” trope, A BETRAYAL OF STORMS by Ben Alderson is a must-read. Originally self-published in 2022, it’s now been re-released with revisions through Angry Robot Books. The story follows Robin Vale, a half-human, half-fae who discovers he’s the lost heir to the Winter Court in the fae realm. Robin suddenly finds himself thrown into a world of magic, battles, and tough choices as he decides whether to return to the life he's always known or to explore his fae heritage and his mother's House. Despite lacking the brawn and skill of a warrior, Robin has a powerful magical inheritance that he struggles to control, making his journey both challenging and relatable.
What sets A BETRAYAL OF STORMS apart is Alderson’s immersive world-building and the organic romance subplot between Robin and his mysterious personal guard, Erix. The attraction between them feels authentic and woven naturally into the story’s conflicts. Alderson’s attention to detail shines in the vividly crafted fae realms, each with its own seasonal aesthetic and sensory details that engages all of the reader's senses.
If you’re looking for an autumnal fantasy read with a blend of romance, action, and beautifully written prose, this book delivers it all!
I requested a copy of the ARC from the publisher, Angry Robot Books, and was approved in exchange for consideration of a review. All opinions discussed are my own and are subjective to myself as a reader.
A heartfelt thanks to my Patrons on Patreon for their support towards my enthusiasm for reading and reviewing!
Special thanks to my highest level Patrons: Ev, Sharon, Andrew, Star, Kate, Gail, Amanda F., Tara, John, Ann, & Chad K.
The following is a brief summary of the transcript taken from the above referenced video review.
For fans of high-stakes adventure, political intrigue, and the “lost heir” trope, A BETRAYAL OF STORMS by Ben Alderson is a must-read. Originally self-published in 2022, it’s now been re-released with revisions through Angry Robot Books. The story follows Robin Vale, a half-human, half-fae who discovers he’s the lost heir to the Winter Court in the fae realm. Robin suddenly finds himself thrown into a world of magic, battles, and tough choices as he decides whether to return to the life he's always known or to explore his fae heritage and his mother's House. Despite lacking the brawn and skill of a warrior, Robin has a powerful magical inheritance that he struggles to control, making his journey both challenging and relatable.
What sets A BETRAYAL OF STORMS apart is Alderson’s immersive world-building and the organic romance subplot between Robin and his mysterious personal guard, Erix. The attraction between them feels authentic and woven naturally into the story’s conflicts. Alderson’s attention to detail shines in the vividly crafted fae realms, each with its own seasonal aesthetic and sensory details that engages all of the reader's senses.
If you’re looking for an autumnal fantasy read with a blend of romance, action, and beautifully written prose, this book delivers it all!
I requested a copy of the ARC from the publisher, Angry Robot Books, and was approved in exchange for consideration of a review. All opinions discussed are my own and are subjective to myself as a reader.
A heartfelt thanks to my Patrons on Patreon for their support towards my enthusiasm for reading and reviewing!
Special thanks to my highest level Patrons: Ev, Sharon, Andrew, Star, Kate, Gail, Amanda F., Tara, John, Ann, & Chad K.
January 30, 2022
Not my style of writing at all - overly descriptive and desperately needs editing. Interesting idea but the flow and style really put me off.
dnf-p50-rule
January 13, 2022I don’t know if I’m reading a different book than everyone else or if I’m feeling extra salty or critical.
I know I didn’t give the book a lot of time to draw me in but it’s nearly impossible to get much further than a couple chapters when the writing grates this hard on your nerves. Specifically the over abundance of ellipses. I love ellipses, they can make a bit of dialogue hit just right, let some exposition marinate in your brain pan.
But.
When the MC uses ellipses multiple times in every single interaction AND in his internal dialogue? He just sounds like an overly melodramatic Bill Shatner in my head and I can’t take anything seriously.
This is the third book by this author that I’ve tried to read. I’ve yet to make it past page 50. It’s (probably) a case of it’s not you, it’s me.
I know I didn’t give the book a lot of time to draw me in but it’s nearly impossible to get much further than a couple chapters when the writing grates this hard on your nerves. Specifically the over abundance of ellipses. I love ellipses, they can make a bit of dialogue hit just right, let some exposition marinate in your brain pan.
But.
When the MC uses ellipses multiple times in every single interaction AND in his internal dialogue? He just sounds like an overly melodramatic Bill Shatner in my head and I can’t take anything seriously.
This is the third book by this author that I’ve tried to read. I’ve yet to make it past page 50. It’s (probably) a case of it’s not you, it’s me.
February 6, 2022
Don't get me wrong - there are definitely intriguing plot elements being developed but what a very rough diamond this proved to be. The HFN ending does leave over-arching threads awaiting resolution and I'm sufficiently invested to get the next book coming out this year.
Other reviewers have laid out their frustrations in full with the book so I'm just going to mention one or two peeves. Firstly - the mod-slang jargon doesn't quite mesh with the world building (e.g. to grow a pair , ballsy fucks). Second - if I hear MC Arix mouth "little bird" or snoring once more, I'd throw the book across the room. Third - for all the close connection MC Robin professes for his father, the poor man is abandoned to his fate with the fey court for days as Robin jaunts off without a care. 2.5 stars generously rounded up to 3.
Other reviewers have laid out their frustrations in full with the book so I'm just going to mention one or two peeves. Firstly - the mod-slang jargon doesn't quite mesh with the world building (e.g. to grow a pair , ballsy fucks). Second - if I hear MC Arix mouth "little bird" or snoring once more, I'd throw the book across the room. Third - for all the close connection MC Robin professes for his father, the poor man is abandoned to his fate with the fey court for days as Robin jaunts off without a care. 2.5 stars generously rounded up to 3.
January 10, 2022
Ben has once again proven that he's a master at his craft and is here to stay. Absolutely amazing. Sequel, please!
October 11, 2024
I'm still in my MM fantasy era, so I HAD to try out Ben Alderson's upcoming release A Betrayal of Storms. Y'all, if you want all the romantasy vibes but in something unapologetically queer, THIS IS IT. It's a fae (fey in this case) fantasy with political intrigue, warring courts, hidden powers, and a hot bodyguard romance all in a queernormative high fantasy world. Really exciting stuff, definitely worth checking out!
The story is told from half-fey Robin's POV. He grew up in the human world and knows nothing about his heritage until he's kidnapped and taken by Hunters looking for a payout. Though he frustrated me a bit throughout the story, I enjoyed figuring things out alongside him. His guard, Erix, y'all - possessive-protective MMC GOLD. He takes his job of keeping Robin safe SERIOUSLY, and I was all about it.
OMG y'all, there are so many twists in this story! Some of them were a little predictable, but most of them had me second guessing everything I knew up to that point. There's a lot of court posturing and political intrigue as the fey courts prepare to go to war against the humans, but there's SO much going on behind the scenes, it's just wild.
A Betrayal of Storms was originally indie published, but Ben got picked up by a publisher and each book is being rereleased. I'm so excited to see where this series goes, and so thrilled that there will be more queer romantasy on the shelves! Thank you to Angry Robot and Ben for the opportunity to read this one.
The story is told from half-fey Robin's POV. He grew up in the human world and knows nothing about his heritage until he's kidnapped and taken by Hunters looking for a payout. Though he frustrated me a bit throughout the story, I enjoyed figuring things out alongside him. His guard, Erix, y'all - possessive-protective MMC GOLD. He takes his job of keeping Robin safe SERIOUSLY, and I was all about it.
OMG y'all, there are so many twists in this story! Some of them were a little predictable, but most of them had me second guessing everything I knew up to that point. There's a lot of court posturing and political intrigue as the fey courts prepare to go to war against the humans, but there's SO much going on behind the scenes, it's just wild.
A Betrayal of Storms was originally indie published, but Ben got picked up by a publisher and each book is being rereleased. I'm so excited to see where this series goes, and so thrilled that there will be more queer romantasy on the shelves! Thank you to Angry Robot and Ben for the opportunity to read this one.
October 13, 2022
Her parents’ bloody bed. Queen and king of the court and I had just defiled their royal, fucking sheets.
I don’t have words, how tf do you end up doing the dirty in king’s and queen’s bed ???? 😭😭😭
“I will get you on your back one way or another—” I swallowed hard, a shiver of embarrassment spreading down my spine. “Careful, little bird,” Erix said softly. “Words like that will get you in far more trouble than brandishing a blade with an untrained hand.”
I love the way they tease each other. Erix should be all scary and shit but my man is the biggest simp out there lmao he saw robin and was like « hello love of my life, I will give my life for you my king »
I don’t have words, how tf do you end up doing the dirty in king’s and queen’s bed ???? 😭😭😭
“I will get you on your back one way or another—” I swallowed hard, a shiver of embarrassment spreading down my spine. “Careful, little bird,” Erix said softly. “Words like that will get you in far more trouble than brandishing a blade with an untrained hand.”
I love the way they tease each other. Erix should be all scary and shit but my man is the biggest simp out there lmao he saw robin and was like « hello love of my life, I will give my life for you my king »
May 14, 2025
Conflicted.
I’m some ways it really reminded me of the sort of YA fantasy I’d read in middle school, both the plot and the writing style.
I don’t usually mind that, but I think these elements felt out of place sometimes.
There were parts of the book that were interesting, but especially the middle fell off for me.
I feel like I was not left with many questions that could be answered within the space of a single book, so there wasn’t as much intrigue to keep me reading.
A lot of reviews mention the writing style, and I don’t mind it so much, but I do feel like there were some repetitive descriptions which took me out of it…
And the metaphors in the sex scenes! Ah, they read so awkwardly…
Some spelling and grammar errors as well. Not usually an issue for me but some impacted my comprehension of the sentences.
I guess my other complaint would be Erix’s character as a whole.
The dynamic between Tarron and Robin felt much more interesting. Alas…
I just don’t get why they like each other beyond the physical attraction— there is very little time building their relationship.
Erix doesn’t really do anything memorable; I could just as easily see the major actions he makes in moving the plot along being done by another character.
(Also, Robin definitely reminded me of a YA protagonist. I kept thinking he was younger than he actually was because of the way he is written)
So, I don’t think it was bad. There was definitely potential here and I did like some parts! But I think it’s just okay.
Might finish the series at some point but I’m probably putting it off for now.
Also, I do not want to read the word pregnant for at least 2 weeks.
I’m some ways it really reminded me of the sort of YA fantasy I’d read in middle school, both the plot and the writing style.
I don’t usually mind that, but I think these elements felt out of place sometimes.
There were parts of the book that were interesting, but especially the middle fell off for me.
I feel like I was not left with many questions that could be answered within the space of a single book, so there wasn’t as much intrigue to keep me reading.
A lot of reviews mention the writing style, and I don’t mind it so much, but I do feel like there were some repetitive descriptions which took me out of it…
And the metaphors in the sex scenes! Ah, they read so awkwardly…
Some spelling and grammar errors as well. Not usually an issue for me but some impacted my comprehension of the sentences.
I guess my other complaint would be Erix’s character as a whole.
The dynamic between Tarron and Robin felt much more interesting. Alas…
I just don’t get why they like each other beyond the physical attraction— there is very little time building their relationship.
Erix doesn’t really do anything memorable; I could just as easily see the major actions he makes in moving the plot along being done by another character.
(Also, Robin definitely reminded me of a YA protagonist. I kept thinking he was younger than he actually was because of the way he is written)
So, I don’t think it was bad. There was definitely potential here and I did like some parts! But I think it’s just okay.
Might finish the series at some point but I’m probably putting it off for now.
Also, I do not want to read the word pregnant for at least 2 weeks.
October 9, 2024
I picked this E-Arc up last night and finished it today.
I genuinely couldn’t put it down.
I am a huge fan of what one could say is the biggest fairy-based book series out there at the moment and having only read it recently I was worried I wouldn’t be able to connect to something similar.
I was wrong!
I’m by no means a literary connoisseur and could understand why some may not be a fan of the writing style if you’re into more “epic” fantasies but this ticked all the boxes for me without trying to compare it to other books.
I’m a fantasy fan through and through and a romance fan a close second, this was the perfect mix of the two.
It wasn’t slow for me, even at the beginning, the action came fast and I could visualise it well.
The tension of the MM romance had me giggling and kicking my feet and the spice.. I caught myself gasping out loud and I’m by no means a prude!
Being a gay man, I sometimes struggle with the hetero spice books and can find myself cringing at some points, it was refreshing to be able to experience what the majority do when reading the other neon fairy books mentioned earlier.
I felt like I understood who the core characters were after a few sentences of them being introduced.
The love interest was a LITTLE overbearing but I understand the whole duty shtick. Im not one for pet names so they always make me cringe and it took me a couple of seconds to connect the dots with that one but it was cute at times.
Now one of the plot twists I saw coming but the other took me by surprise and perfectly sets up for more in the remainder of the series.
I understand after reading some of the other reviews that some backgrounds of characters weren’t fully explained but I’m hoping these are expanded on in the other books.
All in all I’d say this was right up my alley. This is straight on my preorder and the series on my TBR.
If anyone needs a fantasy heavy romantasy with fey, magic, seasonal courts, spice and plot twists, this is the book for you.
I genuinely couldn’t put it down.
I am a huge fan of what one could say is the biggest fairy-based book series out there at the moment and having only read it recently I was worried I wouldn’t be able to connect to something similar.
I was wrong!
I’m by no means a literary connoisseur and could understand why some may not be a fan of the writing style if you’re into more “epic” fantasies but this ticked all the boxes for me without trying to compare it to other books.
I’m a fantasy fan through and through and a romance fan a close second, this was the perfect mix of the two.
It wasn’t slow for me, even at the beginning, the action came fast and I could visualise it well.
The tension of the MM romance had me giggling and kicking my feet and the spice.. I caught myself gasping out loud and I’m by no means a prude!
Being a gay man, I sometimes struggle with the hetero spice books and can find myself cringing at some points, it was refreshing to be able to experience what the majority do when reading the other neon fairy books mentioned earlier.
I felt like I understood who the core characters were after a few sentences of them being introduced.
The love interest was a LITTLE overbearing but I understand the whole duty shtick. Im not one for pet names so they always make me cringe and it took me a couple of seconds to connect the dots with that one but it was cute at times.
Now one of the plot twists I saw coming but the other took me by surprise and perfectly sets up for more in the remainder of the series.
I understand after reading some of the other reviews that some backgrounds of characters weren’t fully explained but I’m hoping these are expanded on in the other books.
All in all I’d say this was right up my alley. This is straight on my preorder and the series on my TBR.
If anyone needs a fantasy heavy romantasy with fey, magic, seasonal courts, spice and plot twists, this is the book for you.
November 22, 2024
No matter how many times I read one of Ben's books I am blown away. He is amazing at making me feel like the characters are real people, or in this case fey.
Robin is a half-fey who believes he is ordinary and powerless. Then he is snatched from his home in the middle of the night by hunters who want to drain the fey of their magic hoping to take it all for themselves. Just as the hunters are about to kill him as an example of what happens when they are disobeyed, Robin unleashes the mighty power of winter that has been laying dormant in him thanks to the iron bracelet he had always worn.
Saved by fey warriors he is taken to the Cederfall Court where it is revealed that he is the last heir to the Icethorn Court that rules over winter. But the winter magic has been uncontrollable since the death of his mother and other families years before. With the fey using the excuse of winter magic plunging the human world into chaos as a means to start a war for the fey that have been kidnapped and killed for their magic, Robin is left with the choice to either go on living as he has or claim the magic he never knew belonged to him.
Full of political intrigue, assassination attempts, magic, mayhem, steamy romance with his personal guard, and self-discovery I fell in love with these characters and their stories. Robin learning who he is has reminded me of my journey to become the person I am today. Erix with his heart on full display is so relatable, and the whole other cast of characters that keep you entertained from page one are just one of the reasons I highly recommend picking up this series.
Robin is a half-fey who believes he is ordinary and powerless. Then he is snatched from his home in the middle of the night by hunters who want to drain the fey of their magic hoping to take it all for themselves. Just as the hunters are about to kill him as an example of what happens when they are disobeyed, Robin unleashes the mighty power of winter that has been laying dormant in him thanks to the iron bracelet he had always worn.
Saved by fey warriors he is taken to the Cederfall Court where it is revealed that he is the last heir to the Icethorn Court that rules over winter. But the winter magic has been uncontrollable since the death of his mother and other families years before. With the fey using the excuse of winter magic plunging the human world into chaos as a means to start a war for the fey that have been kidnapped and killed for their magic, Robin is left with the choice to either go on living as he has or claim the magic he never knew belonged to him.
Full of political intrigue, assassination attempts, magic, mayhem, steamy romance with his personal guard, and self-discovery I fell in love with these characters and their stories. Robin learning who he is has reminded me of my journey to become the person I am today. Erix with his heart on full display is so relatable, and the whole other cast of characters that keep you entertained from page one are just one of the reasons I highly recommend picking up this series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 22, 2024
Where do I even begin?? I loved this book so much. It gave me ACOTAR vibes while bringing a unique and intriguing storyline. There were so many characters that I liked. The MM romance was great and checked all the boxes for me. The setting was beautiful and enchanting. I am so pumped for more ice magic in the books to come. I absolutely think this is a solid fantasy story and has really good potential for the next books in the series! So excited and thankful to be a part of this rerelease :)
May 24, 2025
DNF 25%
I wanted to like this book SO bad but I've now read an entire quarter of it and I can't keep going. Alderson states he worked with an editor (maybe more than one?), but did he really? The grammar was all over the place, particularly bad was the number of times he used "was" or "were" incorrectly. Sentences were, at times, barely sensible, and often weird like they were missing something, like maybe Anderson started writing it then forgot what he was trying to say and just didn't finish his thought or changed the way he wanted to say it without changing the start of the sentence to match.
Don't care for any of the characters, and the main character especially is very flat for me. Prose is trying to be very "adult fantasy-esque" but all the technical problems with it detracts from that. For the record, I hate when a main character dislikes their future love interest but still finds time to blush at how sexy they are at every given moment. I just don't buy it.
I have tried to be invested in the plot at least, but I can't really get behind that either because it's just kind of happening to Robin. Which I get is the point, but Robin's characterisation is just not strong enough to pull that off. And speaking of, two times now Robin has had an extremely traumatic experience and he's like "this will haunt me forever", but then he's fine right after? I'm very sure he is NOT fine 'cause he does at least think about each thing one time after it happens, but the writing wants to be more about how flowery and fantasy it can sound instead of actually zeroing in on the real nitty-gritty of the emotions.
IDK maybe it gets really good later, maybe the writing style evolves, but I've given it a fair chance with 25% and I just can't sit and read books I'm finding so many problems with these days. Would maybe try to read again if it had some serious hardcore editing, bit for now, I'll just be disappointed RIP.
I wanted to like this book SO bad but I've now read an entire quarter of it and I can't keep going. Alderson states he worked with an editor (maybe more than one?), but did he really? The grammar was all over the place, particularly bad was the number of times he used "was" or "were" incorrectly. Sentences were, at times, barely sensible, and often weird like they were missing something, like maybe Anderson started writing it then forgot what he was trying to say and just didn't finish his thought or changed the way he wanted to say it without changing the start of the sentence to match.
Don't care for any of the characters, and the main character especially is very flat for me. Prose is trying to be very "adult fantasy-esque" but all the technical problems with it detracts from that. For the record, I hate when a main character dislikes their future love interest but still finds time to blush at how sexy they are at every given moment. I just don't buy it.
I have tried to be invested in the plot at least, but I can't really get behind that either because it's just kind of happening to Robin. Which I get is the point, but Robin's characterisation is just not strong enough to pull that off. And speaking of, two times now Robin has had an extremely traumatic experience and he's like "this will haunt me forever", but then he's fine right after? I'm very sure he is NOT fine 'cause he does at least think about each thing one time after it happens, but the writing wants to be more about how flowery and fantasy it can sound instead of actually zeroing in on the real nitty-gritty of the emotions.
IDK maybe it gets really good later, maybe the writing style evolves, but I've given it a fair chance with 25% and I just can't sit and read books I'm finding so many problems with these days. Would maybe try to read again if it had some serious hardcore editing, bit for now, I'll just be disappointed RIP.
May 26, 2022
The first question: who is Gideon?!?? My Kindle copy informed me that there are no Gideons found in this book. And that’s here - in the blurb!!
I really wanted to like this book, and I did, for the first bit. Having the main character being named very much after the first bit of action was genius, the struggle of kidnapping, horror, gore and torture was very well written, but just around 30-40% mark the pace and storyline went decidedly downhill.
So I do understand why there’s so many reviews marking it as DNF at 50%, but as I don’t believe in DNFing, I did press on. And it continued with many ups and downs.
After that it dragged and I had a lot of struggle pressing forward, but around 60-70% mark it got better again, and dragged again soon after.
All the passages (chapters really) that I struggled with were not boring per se, just written in a way that screamed for a redo, some relationships were hinted at when I’d have rather read about them more extensively, and then some that were unnecessarily pulled at over and over again, could have been explained just once in a more interesting way (like Erix and Tarron).
When the book reached the kidnapping and all the very exciting stuff around 85%, yes it did become more readable again, but Tarron’s motives and explanations are too convoluted and truly resemble rants of a crazy person who has totally lost it.
And my biggest concern - did this book have an editor or a beta reader even. It was littered with editing mistakes, spelling mistakes, stylistic issues and grammar mistakes. One or two would be ok, but as many as I encountered in my Kindle copy was unfortunately dragging me out of reading immersion.
I really wanted to like this book, and I did, for the first bit. Having the main character being named very much after the first bit of action was genius, the struggle of kidnapping, horror, gore and torture was very well written, but just around 30-40% mark the pace and storyline went decidedly downhill.
So I do understand why there’s so many reviews marking it as DNF at 50%, but as I don’t believe in DNFing, I did press on. And it continued with many ups and downs.
After that it dragged and I had a lot of struggle pressing forward, but around 60-70% mark it got better again, and dragged again soon after.
All the passages (chapters really) that I struggled with were not boring per se, just written in a way that screamed for a redo, some relationships were hinted at when I’d have rather read about them more extensively, and then some that were unnecessarily pulled at over and over again, could have been explained just once in a more interesting way (like Erix and Tarron).
When the book reached the kidnapping and all the very exciting stuff around 85%, yes it did become more readable again, but Tarron’s motives and explanations are too convoluted and truly resemble rants of a crazy person who has totally lost it.
And my biggest concern - did this book have an editor or a beta reader even. It was littered with editing mistakes, spelling mistakes, stylistic issues and grammar mistakes. One or two would be ok, but as many as I encountered in my Kindle copy was unfortunately dragging me out of reading immersion.
June 2, 2022
"Doors of possibility open when one commands attention, but it is the confidence you wear that demands for those very doors to close again.”
✿ Io lo scrivo.
Ero partita aspettandomi del trash becero. E guarda un po', mi sa che questo è ciò che la Pacat avrebbe voluto scrivere con Dark Rise ma niente. E sarà che l'ho letto dopo Shuggie Bain ed ero emotivamente distrutta quindi qualsiasi lettura leggera e vagamente coerente mi sarebbe piaciuta. Tranne questa che però mi ha fatta uscire da quel buco nero di schifo in cui ero entrata quindi daje.
✿ Però raga, basta usare la tensione sessuale per descrivere ogni interazione tra due persone. Non è tensione sessuale, questi due si piacciono e vogliono fare cosacce, che tensione sessuale!?
Robin c'ha ventiquattro anni e io continuavo a dimenticarmelo perchè questo doveva essere uno YA ma ormai pare che nessuno voglia più scriverli e quindi è altro, e lui si comporta e parla come se ne avesse sedici. E come lui si comportano così la principessa che dovrebbe avere molti più anni di lui -ma tutti dovrebbero averli, in realtà- e che è, appunto, una principessa e il soldato/guardia personale che dovrebbe essere quello stoico e freddo ma che invece dalla prima frase che gli dice già fa i sorrisetti, flirta, si avvicina e tocca.
✿ Io lo scrivo.
Ero partita aspettandomi del trash becero. E guarda un po', mi sa che questo è ciò che la Pacat avrebbe voluto scrivere con Dark Rise ma niente. E sarà che l'ho letto dopo Shuggie Bain ed ero emotivamente distrutta quindi qualsiasi lettura leggera e vagamente coerente mi sarebbe piaciuta. Tranne questa che però mi ha fatta uscire da quel buco nero di schifo in cui ero entrata quindi daje.
✿ Però raga, basta usare la tensione sessuale per descrivere ogni interazione tra due persone. Non è tensione sessuale, questi due si piacciono e vogliono fare cosacce, che tensione sessuale!?
Robin c'ha ventiquattro anni e io continuavo a dimenticarmelo perchè questo doveva essere uno YA ma ormai pare che nessuno voglia più scriverli e quindi è altro, e lui si comporta e parla come se ne avesse sedici. E come lui si comportano così la principessa che dovrebbe avere molti più anni di lui -ma tutti dovrebbero averli, in realtà- e che è, appunto, una principessa e il soldato/guardia personale che dovrebbe essere quello stoico e freddo ma che invece dalla prima frase che gli dice già fa i sorrisetti, flirta, si avvicina e tocca.
November 16, 2023
I liked how the fey world was laid out in this book. The plot was thrilling, a rags-to-riches kinda story though Robin inherited far greater responsibilities than just a kingdom.
However, the stylistic approach just did not do it for me. Why was I being treated to clickbaity lines like "What I saw next brought me to my knees.(nonverbatim)" I just had to pause because huh???? This is not a gossip tabloid. I'm already reading the book there's no need for engagement baits. I just found it really odd to read in a fantasy novel.
The characters were also difficult to connect with. I mean, I understand Robin's plights but I couldn't seem to empathize. There's just not enough substance for me to get into the storyline and personalities.
Not to mention the lack of chemistry between Robin and Erix. At first I was like who the hell is this Erix guy? I fully expected someone named Gideon because that's who the blurb mentioned but then this person never came. I waited until midway through before giving up, Gideon was never nowhere to be found. I don't get it. I'm sad that the romance plot was also a bust for me. :(
I don't think I'll be reading the rest of the series. Hope other readers enjoyed this much better than I did.
However, the stylistic approach just did not do it for me. Why was I being treated to clickbaity lines like "What I saw next brought me to my knees.(nonverbatim)" I just had to pause because huh???? This is not a gossip tabloid. I'm already reading the book there's no need for engagement baits. I just found it really odd to read in a fantasy novel.
The characters were also difficult to connect with. I mean, I understand Robin's plights but I couldn't seem to empathize. There's just not enough substance for me to get into the storyline and personalities.
Not to mention the lack of chemistry between Robin and Erix. At first I was like who the hell is this Erix guy? I fully expected someone named Gideon because that's who the blurb mentioned but then this person never came. I waited until midway through before giving up, Gideon was never nowhere to be found. I don't get it. I'm sad that the romance plot was also a bust for me. :(
I don't think I'll be reading the rest of the series. Hope other readers enjoyed this much better than I did.
December 17, 2022
Adult fantasy romance that is gay with some spice! This is the second book I’ve read from Ben Alderson. I devoured this 535 page novel in one sitting. ⠀
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“A Betrayal of Storms” by Ben Alderson. Little bird is my new favourite pet name. The spice was good. World building was done well and was easily drawn into the story. Erix’s love for Robin is undeniable. However, I felt like there wasn’t as much about how Robin felt about Erix. It is clear that it was more than a “distraction” but I am hoping to see this be further developed in the second book.
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“A Betrayal of Storms” by Ben Alderson. Little bird is my new favourite pet name. The spice was good. World building was done well and was easily drawn into the story. Erix’s love for Robin is undeniable. However, I felt like there wasn’t as much about how Robin felt about Erix. It is clear that it was more than a “distraction” but I am hoping to see this be further developed in the second book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 18, 2024
Well, I think because I'd already had it downloaded, I might be one of the last people who got to read the unpolished version of this. I'm so excited for the next two to be released this fall. I loved this story and the characters. I look forward to seeing what Ben brings to the table next.
August 6, 2023
I never felt so asexual
October 20, 2024
Thanks to Angry Robot Books and Netgalley for the ARC.
3.5/5
A Betrayal of Storms is the start of a MM fantasy series-The Realm of Fey- that was originally self-published but has been reworked and now is being traditionally published. Robin Vale is a half fey living a quiet life with his human father when he is sold to local fey Hunters and taken to a camp where fey are being tortured and killed. Robin has always thought he had no special fey gifts, but as his life is threatened his gift is revealed and once he is rescued by fey from the Cedarfall court, he learns his ancestry is quite special. Robin then enters a world he never thought to see or experience and is thrown into court politics as well as a potential fey-human war. Robin needs to not only learn about his own personal history, but he must learn to control is gift, while trying to prevent the war from breaking out.
This was an entertaining read that kept my interest throughout, and the story moved at a quick pace. This does lean more towards the romantasy side of fantasy, and the queer rep is well done, and there are a couple of spicy scenes (honestly, I was hoping for more!). The story doesn't break any new ground, but the chosen one trope combined with found family is always a favorite of mine and there were a couple of good twists which made for a satisfying ending. There was definitely opportunity for more character growth, and there were times when I wanted the story to slow down a bit for more growth and backstory. Althea was a favorite character, and I would have liked to have expanded the relationship between Robin and Tarron. As this was my first read of one of Ben's books, I am looking forward to seeing how his writing grows with the next novels in the series and hopefully the world expands to more of the fey courts.
3.5/5
A Betrayal of Storms is the start of a MM fantasy series-The Realm of Fey- that was originally self-published but has been reworked and now is being traditionally published. Robin Vale is a half fey living a quiet life with his human father when he is sold to local fey Hunters and taken to a camp where fey are being tortured and killed. Robin has always thought he had no special fey gifts, but as his life is threatened his gift is revealed and once he is rescued by fey from the Cedarfall court, he learns his ancestry is quite special. Robin then enters a world he never thought to see or experience and is thrown into court politics as well as a potential fey-human war. Robin needs to not only learn about his own personal history, but he must learn to control is gift, while trying to prevent the war from breaking out.
This was an entertaining read that kept my interest throughout, and the story moved at a quick pace. This does lean more towards the romantasy side of fantasy, and the queer rep is well done, and there are a couple of spicy scenes (honestly, I was hoping for more!). The story doesn't break any new ground, but the chosen one trope combined with found family is always a favorite of mine and there were a couple of good twists which made for a satisfying ending. There was definitely opportunity for more character growth, and there were times when I wanted the story to slow down a bit for more growth and backstory. Althea was a favorite character, and I would have liked to have expanded the relationship between Robin and Tarron. As this was my first read of one of Ben's books, I am looking forward to seeing how his writing grows with the next novels in the series and hopefully the world expands to more of the fey courts.
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