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A Court of Gilt and Shadow #2
Through Illusions and Deceit
Through Illusions and Deceit is the much-anticipated continuation of the A Court of Gilt and Shadow Series by bestselling authors Stacy Jones and Harper Wylde.
Danger. Illusions. Deceit.
Fairy tales and monsters exist... and Arawyn is one of them.
After years of trying to control the strange power living inside her, Arawyn knows she's different. She just couldn't have guessed how different. She's the lost Fae Heir, the rightful Queen of Faery, and the first to ever hold the power of both the Light and Night Courts.
But uncovering the secrets of her past leaves her with more questions than answers.
How did she end up in the mortal realm? If she's so powerful, why can't she control the wild magic churning inside her? And why does that magic respond so intensely to the three enigmatic men who've vowed to protect her?
A devilish Fae Prince, a psychotic assassin, and a monstrous warrior.
Learning her identity changes everything between them. The suspicion in Rathe's eyes is turning into possession. Viper treats her like a leper, yet stares at her with a hunger that borders on madness. And Fear looks at her with a certainty that scares her more than any mercenary ever could.
As the threats surrounding her grow more deadly, and the men she's come to care for are caught in the crosshairs alongside her, time is running out for Arawyn to learn to harness her power.
But the last time she tapped into it ended in disaster.
What if this time it isn't just Rathe, Viper, and Fear's blood on her hands... but their deaths?
From bestselling authors, Stacy Jones and Harper Wylde, comes the second book in the darkly seductive new series, A Court of Gilt and Shadow, blending romance, danger, and the supernatural into an unforgettable read.
Danger. Illusions. Deceit.
Fairy tales and monsters exist... and Arawyn is one of them.
After years of trying to control the strange power living inside her, Arawyn knows she's different. She just couldn't have guessed how different. She's the lost Fae Heir, the rightful Queen of Faery, and the first to ever hold the power of both the Light and Night Courts.
But uncovering the secrets of her past leaves her with more questions than answers.
How did she end up in the mortal realm? If she's so powerful, why can't she control the wild magic churning inside her? And why does that magic respond so intensely to the three enigmatic men who've vowed to protect her?
A devilish Fae Prince, a psychotic assassin, and a monstrous warrior.
Learning her identity changes everything between them. The suspicion in Rathe's eyes is turning into possession. Viper treats her like a leper, yet stares at her with a hunger that borders on madness. And Fear looks at her with a certainty that scares her more than any mercenary ever could.
As the threats surrounding her grow more deadly, and the men she's come to care for are caught in the crosshairs alongside her, time is running out for Arawyn to learn to harness her power.
But the last time she tapped into it ended in disaster.
What if this time it isn't just Rathe, Viper, and Fear's blood on her hands... but their deaths?
From bestselling authors, Stacy Jones and Harper Wylde, comes the second book in the darkly seductive new series, A Court of Gilt and Shadow, blending romance, danger, and the supernatural into an unforgettable read.
333 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 31, 2022
276 people are currently reading
1713 people want to read
About the author
Stacy Jones
28 books818 followersStacy Jones is an award-winning romance author living in beautiful Hot Springs, Arkansas. She can usually be found at her desk, with an oversized coffee cup, bringing the fantastical worlds and captivating characters in her imagination to life.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 173 reviews
September 4, 2022
I only have three words for you guys “𝐕𝐢𝐩𝐞𝐫 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐢𝐤” that's it, that's my review. The rest doesn't matter, these guys deserves 4 demented stars.
“He turned her towards him, then tilted her chin up with a finger, his gaze unexpectedly serious. “I know it’s scary, but I’ll be with you every step of the way. When you need to laugh, I’ll make you. When you need to cry, I’ll hold you.”
“Viper,” she whispered breathily from how sweet he was being. His gold eyes flashed yellow as his Glamor dipped, and his thumb grazed along the bottom line of her lip.
A mischievous glint entered his eyes, and his voice dropped to a seductive purr, “When you get overwhelmed, I’ll distract you with pleasure.” That glint turned anticipatory. “And when you need to hit something, I’ll hold Rathe down.”
“He turned her towards him, then tilted her chin up with a finger, his gaze unexpectedly serious. “I know it’s scary, but I’ll be with you every step of the way. When you need to laugh, I’ll make you. When you need to cry, I’ll hold you.”
“Viper,” she whispered breathily from how sweet he was being. His gold eyes flashed yellow as his Glamor dipped, and his thumb grazed along the bottom line of her lip.
A mischievous glint entered his eyes, and his voice dropped to a seductive purr, “When you get overwhelmed, I’ll distract you with pleasure.” That glint turned anticipatory. “And when you need to hit something, I’ll hold Rathe down.”
April 15, 2023
2.75🌟
I'm very disappointed with how this book turned out. I remember I like Harper Wylde's books, and I was excited to read this series. The first book in this series was actually quite intriguing. Unfortunately, Through Illusions and Deceit didn't meet the expectation.
Listen, I'm all for smuts in a fantasy book. HOWEVER, this book has too much of it. If I'm not mistaken, almost 60% of the book was full of smut. So, you can imagine that the plot was almost non-existence.
This book isn't all bad. If you're in the mood of smut with a fantasy as a background, you might enjoy this book. Otherwise, I'm not sure you would enjoy it.
You can check my review on Within Obsession and Lies in here.
I'm very disappointed with how this book turned out. I remember I like Harper Wylde's books, and I was excited to read this series. The first book in this series was actually quite intriguing. Unfortunately, Through Illusions and Deceit didn't meet the expectation.
Listen, I'm all for smuts in a fantasy book. HOWEVER, this book has too much of it. If I'm not mistaken, almost 60% of the book was full of smut. So, you can imagine that the plot was almost non-existence.
This book isn't all bad. If you're in the mood of smut with a fantasy as a background, you might enjoy this book. Otherwise, I'm not sure you would enjoy it.
You can check my review on Within Obsession and Lies in here.
May 26, 2022
I was expecting more from this book. I felt like it was a repeat of book one. There was nothing significant that happened, the heroine was still kept at home while the heroes were running around trying to figure what was going on, the only interesting this was the identity of the person trying to kidnap her.
The only redeeming quality of this book was the steam level, everything else was basic.
The only redeeming quality of this book was the steam level, everything else was basic.
April 9, 2022
No strong representation of diverse characters or minority identities.
Overall: 4.75-stars
Safety Rating: Safe
Possible Triggers: Yes
Ending:
Overall: 4.75-stars
Safety Rating: Safe
Possible Triggers: Yes
Ending:
June 13, 2022
3 🌟!!!
𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗱 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘂𝗿𝗯𝗮𝗻 𝗳𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗮𝘀𝘆 𝘀𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗜 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝗷𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝗵𝗼𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗲…
Like the first one, I still read this one super quick. The plots fast paced, the dialogue is easy to get through (although slightly cringey at times) and the characters are likeable enough to want to read more.
I felt like the ending was very rushed and I got confused as to what was happening at certain points. 80% of the book is still Arawyn bound to the house so the only ‘plot’ comes from interactions with the guys…which can get a bit repetitive…
👫 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀:
There’s hardly any new characters in this book besides from in the last 90% (I won’t give away who it is) - oh and remember the mystery guy Braven that suddenly disappeared in the first book? He was finally mentioned at the very end of this book…but it was just said that he was ‘out of town’….(poor plot in my opinion)
There’s not much character development from the first book either - the only thing is that the guys ‘true forms’ are shown once they release their glamour. Some have wings, some have horns and some have scales…You know us fantasy lovers are a fan of a man with a big wingspan ;)
🌎 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱-𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴: 𝟯/𝟱
Granted, there was more world building in this book but it was all just information… We still haven’t made it to see actual Faery yet! For a book solely based on Fae, visiting the lands is being a bit dragged out…
🌶 𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲: 𝟯/𝟱
Definitely a lot more spice in this one! This is a reverse harem so there’s plenty of action with each of the 3 guys, plus, even some scenes with more than one of them ;)
Will I read the third book when it comes out? Probably not. I did enjoy these books but I didn’t 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 them, however, some people did and gave both books 5 stars so don’t let my review put you off!!
𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗱 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘂𝗿𝗯𝗮𝗻 𝗳𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗮𝘀𝘆 𝘀𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗜 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝗷𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝗵𝗼𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗲…
Like the first one, I still read this one super quick. The plots fast paced, the dialogue is easy to get through (although slightly cringey at times) and the characters are likeable enough to want to read more.
I felt like the ending was very rushed and I got confused as to what was happening at certain points. 80% of the book is still Arawyn bound to the house so the only ‘plot’ comes from interactions with the guys…which can get a bit repetitive…
👫 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀:
There’s hardly any new characters in this book besides from in the last 90% (I won’t give away who it is) - oh and remember the mystery guy Braven that suddenly disappeared in the first book? He was finally mentioned at the very end of this book…but it was just said that he was ‘out of town’….(poor plot in my opinion)
There’s not much character development from the first book either - the only thing is that the guys ‘true forms’ are shown once they release their glamour. Some have wings, some have horns and some have scales…You know us fantasy lovers are a fan of a man with a big wingspan ;)
🌎 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱-𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴: 𝟯/𝟱
Granted, there was more world building in this book but it was all just information… We still haven’t made it to see actual Faery yet! For a book solely based on Fae, visiting the lands is being a bit dragged out…
🌶 𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲: 𝟯/𝟱
Definitely a lot more spice in this one! This is a reverse harem so there’s plenty of action with each of the 3 guys, plus, even some scenes with more than one of them ;)
Will I read the third book when it comes out? Probably not. I did enjoy these books but I didn’t 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 them, however, some people did and gave both books 5 stars so don’t let my review put you off!!
April 6, 2022
If book one was an outstanding foundation to this new series, this book elevated these characters and this world even more. Arawyn, Fear, Viper, and Rathe popped off the pages for me and my heart was pounding through most of this story with their emotions, passions, and the action that's following them. I sincerely hope that even when their story arc ends, Ms. Jones and Ms. Wylde consider some spin-offs in this greater world because there's magic here. Yes, I'm already wanting this world to continue after two books, I was ready after the first one. The story is still told in third person, multi-POV and thank goodness for all those POVs.
In this second book, there's more of everything. More magic, more steam, some more background information, more danger (if you can believe it), and more relationship development. There's still a nice balance of humor, serious moments, drama, and romance. Not everything runs smoothly or comes naturally in terms of relationship building with this group though, which makes sense given each of their intense backgrounds and personal traumas. I still love each of these characters though, even when I'm not pleased with their choices. As I said, that slow burn of book one bears fruit in these pages and it's soooo good. More extra equipment to learn about and monstrous forms to admire, plus all that tension starting to pay off along with more connection.
There are still plenty of things to learn about our characters, the danger, and their world. We do meet a new character that I'm not quite sure what to make of yet, but he's intriguing, I'll give him that. I actually think I like him and I'm hoping we get some juicy growth. There is more violence in book two and more suspense for those that may be sensitive to those. The book ends on another lead-in to the next book vs. a true cliffhanger. Still no mm/ff or other woman drama. I also still love that there's a glossary and character art and I looked through both again. I'm so anxious to see where book three is going to take us and with where we've gone so far, it's going to be such a wild but fulfilling ride!
In this second book, there's more of everything. More magic, more steam, some more background information, more danger (if you can believe it), and more relationship development. There's still a nice balance of humor, serious moments, drama, and romance. Not everything runs smoothly or comes naturally in terms of relationship building with this group though, which makes sense given each of their intense backgrounds and personal traumas. I still love each of these characters though, even when I'm not pleased with their choices. As I said, that slow burn of book one bears fruit in these pages and it's soooo good. More extra equipment to learn about and monstrous forms to admire, plus all that tension starting to pay off along with more connection.
There are still plenty of things to learn about our characters, the danger, and their world. We do meet a new character that I'm not quite sure what to make of yet, but he's intriguing, I'll give him that. I actually think I like him and I'm hoping we get some juicy growth. There is more violence in book two and more suspense for those that may be sensitive to those. The book ends on another lead-in to the next book vs. a true cliffhanger. Still no mm/ff or other woman drama. I also still love that there's a glossary and character art and I looked through both again. I'm so anxious to see where book three is going to take us and with where we've gone so far, it's going to be such a wild but fulfilling ride!
March 30, 2022
I did not want this book to end and to have to leave this world! I absolutely adore this series. Viper is my favorite, I love his love for Arawyn and how much fun he is. Arawyn is starting to finally come into her own as she comes to grips with who and what she is meanwhile she’s still being hunted by an unknown assassin. The assassin has been keeping the guys busy and also Arawyn cooped up. Rathe really made me upset in this book but I do think he’s going to be his own worst enemy digging himself out of the hole he’s now in. I’m really excited for book 3!
April 10, 2022
Good soup.
May 8, 2023
-- I liked it overall but this really would have benefitted from editing, especially for the rambling recaps that often surfaced in monologues.
First half of the book: 2/5 stars, despite the fact that I really love Viper
My heart is kinda bleeding at the fact that I didn't love the first half of the book, which gave Viper, my favorite character, some serious screen time (good for him!). Why didn't I like it?
- rambling: all chapters are in first person narration, and I guess that invites rambling, recapping and info-dumping even more than other forms of narration would. We get a lot of descriptions of what the boys look like. We get a recap of what happened in volume 1 (which I didn't read yesterday, but c'mon! Series can trust the reader a little bit!). We get a summary of what the characters felt during volume 1, and now as they reflect on it (despite the fact that readers were there too🤦♀️. Tiny bits and pieces of that would have been fine!! I get it, emotions and descriptions are relevant. That being said, many of the descriptive parts felt "microwaved", and not freshly cooked. That means that when the really important, heavy-hitting emotional scenes came around, they just didn't hit the way they should have.
VIPER DESERVED BETTER!
Second half of the book 4/5 stars
The second half of the book was way better, because there was a ton of action and difficult emotional scenes and hard dialogues and sexual tension! Also, perhaps because so much was happening, there was finally a break from the rambling and info-dumping and rehashing, yes!!
Rathe was very prominent in the second half of the book, and I accept him stealing Viper's thunder because he is a complex Dick, with a capital D for DRAMA. What a snotty queen. While I was fuming and judging him in silence (throwing popcorn in fury only works in the theater) I was very entertained by his knobheaded brain gymnastics that led to massive misunderstandings and a huge fallout. I hope we will all suffer more because of it in book 3. I am not familiar with other works by Harper Wylde, but I have read a lot of Stacy Jones and her heroines are way too nice!!! If Rathe is such a major headache, then he deserves to bend over backwards too. I don't care if he beats himself up on the inside. He should get punished in some way!
Despite the ramblings I enjoyed the book and will of course be reading the next one. I am really excited about the new character addition as well. Tell me more!!
First half of the book: 2/5 stars, despite the fact that I really love Viper
My heart is kinda bleeding at the fact that I didn't love the first half of the book, which gave Viper, my favorite character, some serious screen time (good for him!). Why didn't I like it?
- rambling: all chapters are in first person narration, and I guess that invites rambling, recapping and info-dumping even more than other forms of narration would. We get a lot of descriptions of what the boys look like. We get a recap of what happened in volume 1 (which I didn't read yesterday, but c'mon! Series can trust the reader a little bit!). We get a summary of what the characters felt during volume 1, and now as they reflect on it (despite the fact that readers were there too🤦♀️. Tiny bits and pieces of that would have been fine!! I get it, emotions and descriptions are relevant. That being said, many of the descriptive parts felt "microwaved", and not freshly cooked. That means that when the really important, heavy-hitting emotional scenes came around, they just didn't hit the way they should have.
VIPER DESERVED BETTER!
Second half of the book 4/5 stars
The second half of the book was way better, because there was a ton of action and difficult emotional scenes and hard dialogues and sexual tension! Also, perhaps because so much was happening, there was finally a break from the rambling and info-dumping and rehashing, yes!!
Rathe was very prominent in the second half of the book, and I accept him stealing Viper's thunder because he is a complex Dick, with a capital D for DRAMA. What a snotty queen. While I was fuming and judging him in silence (throwing popcorn in fury only works in the theater) I was very entertained by his knobheaded brain gymnastics that led to massive misunderstandings and a huge fallout. I hope we will all suffer more because of it in book 3. I am not familiar with other works by Harper Wylde, but I have read a lot of Stacy Jones and her heroines are way too nice!!! If Rathe is such a major headache, then he deserves to bend over backwards too. I don't care if he beats himself up on the inside. He should get punished in some way!
Despite the ramblings I enjoyed the book and will of course be reading the next one. I am really excited about the new character addition as well. Tell me more!!
November 17, 2023
Okay but why have I become completely obsessed with this series??? Like I am in love with these books. I don't want to get into all these books offer because I don't want to ruin them for anyone, but let me tell you that these books are everything! If you want a RH romantasy with an amazing storyline, great spice, and hunky fae then this series is for you.
February 17, 2024
I'm going to give this 3 stars, but it's on the better side of it. And I have to admit, Rathe grew on me.. 🙄 I know, shocker.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Spice Meter: 🌶️🌶️🌶️(ish)
Chemistry: 🔥🔥🔥
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Spice Meter: 🌶️🌶️🌶️(ish)
Chemistry: 🔥🔥🔥
August 28, 2024
Even if some parts were cringy, I couldn’t put it down so let’s go… onto the next one
February 16, 2023
*3,75
Único comentário que eu tenho sobre esse livro: Dommik! Qual é a dele? Não sei se estou preparada para ele começar a fazer parte da dinâmica.
Único comentário que eu tenho sobre esse livro: Dommik! Qual é a dele? Não sei se estou preparada para ele começar a fazer parte da dinâmica.
April 4, 2022
I really enjoyed the first book, despite it being full of RH tropes that normally get me eyerolling. I enjoyed this one, too, but maybe not quite as much.
There was a lot of repetitive scenes and ideas going on, and I feel like while the overarching plot progressed in the last third, the first two third were just a bit of manufactured angst and drama, which got on my nerves after a while.
However, I still enjoyed this a lot and will read the next when it's out.
There was a lot of repetitive scenes and ideas going on, and I feel like while the overarching plot progressed in the last third, the first two third were just a bit of manufactured angst and drama, which got on my nerves after a while.
However, I still enjoyed this a lot and will read the next when it's out.
April 8, 2022
I will jump straight into bad things. Half way through I felt DNF is in order but I pushed on..
I have very mixed feelings. I do feel this storyline is interesting and original. BUT, it has so many issues...
❌ Characters were aged 26-30. I personally feel how they acted, more like 18-20. I would have been much more forgiving.
❌ Horny is thy name. They were horny non freaking stop. I love my smut but I love also great storyline. I felt there were dome action going to happen but then random getting wet in the middle of a situation, pulled me right out of the story. Tune that hornfest down.
❌Lot of plotholes. I felt the base of the storyline is good but foundation on it is flimsy, maybe rushed and not thought through?
❌ Prn and fantasy books have that info dump. I know there are people who hate it. I obviously do too, if it's excessive but in here we are told she learned some things. Um, like what? I want to be part of that process to understand what the fuck is going on. So basically it was all telling not showing. No background story.
There are some more, but those are the biggest issues I found. I don't know if I'll continue. I mean I want to..
I have very mixed feelings. I do feel this storyline is interesting and original. BUT, it has so many issues...
❌ Characters were aged 26-30. I personally feel how they acted, more like 18-20. I would have been much more forgiving.
❌ Horny is thy name. They were horny non freaking stop. I love my smut but I love also great storyline. I felt there were dome action going to happen but then random getting wet in the middle of a situation, pulled me right out of the story. Tune that hornfest down.
❌Lot of plotholes. I felt the base of the storyline is good but foundation on it is flimsy, maybe rushed and not thought through?
❌ Prn and fantasy books have that info dump. I know there are people who hate it. I obviously do too, if it's excessive but in here we are told she learned some things. Um, like what? I want to be part of that process to understand what the fuck is going on. So basically it was all telling not showing. No background story.
There are some more, but those are the biggest issues I found. I don't know if I'll continue. I mean I want to..
March 31, 2022
This story was SO good! The heat between Arawyn and her three guys Rathe, Fear, and Viper, continues to build in this story. Arawyn is learning her powers and all is not as it seems when it comes to who is after her. This book explores the relationships between Arawyn and her fated mates further. The focus is more on Fear and Viper. I feel Rathe will be uncovered in more detail in the next book. Yes, there is a next book. This ends not really in a cliffhanger, but a "to be continued" fashion. Through Illusions and Deceit is SUPER steamy. The detail, descriptions, and dialogue are first rate! Excellent writing and I look forward to more Rathe, Fear, and Viper! 4 stars
July 10, 2022
Disappointed compared to book 1. The first 70% of this book felt like filler, nothing really advanced or happened, just alot of talking.
Also the overuse use of "wet" and how every single conversation or glimpse of each other made them horny instantly got frankly boring after a while. I love my steam but reading a constant narrative about hard cocks and wet underwear isn't enough of a plot line to keep my interest.
Will I read book 3, probably. But because of book 1.
Also the overuse use of "wet" and how every single conversation or glimpse of each other made them horny instantly got frankly boring after a while. I love my steam but reading a constant narrative about hard cocks and wet underwear isn't enough of a plot line to keep my interest.
Will I read book 3, probably. But because of book 1.
April 3, 2022
This is the second book in the Court of Gild & Shadow series. If you haven't read the first book I highly recommend you 🏃♀️ to KU!
I was so excited for this book after reading the first one last year. I planned on saving it until I finished Heir of Fire but the minute it hit my kindle I couldn't wait and literally could not stop reading. It was the definition of 'one more chapter' and trying to force my eyes to stay open 😅
I loved how we learned more about Aarywn's heritage without it being overwhelming. Reading her come into her own power, both in being fae and in her relationships with Fear, Viper and Rathe was incredibly satisfying. It felt natural.
Rathe per usual made me want to rage hit something, Viper made me swoon and laugh and Fear was just his adorable self.
After reading how they do not believe women should bare any household responsibilities in Faery I'm ready to apply for a visa application 🤣
Oh, and the spice? 20/10. So so good and again written in a way that felt second nature. Probably my favorite reverse harem to date because it just feel natural and unforced. They all love and worship Aarwyn so, so much.
I was so so sad when this book came to an end. I angry pounded at my kindle waiting for more pages 😭 I cannot wait for the next book but until then I'll reread my favorite moments 🥰
I was so excited for this book after reading the first one last year. I planned on saving it until I finished Heir of Fire but the minute it hit my kindle I couldn't wait and literally could not stop reading. It was the definition of 'one more chapter' and trying to force my eyes to stay open 😅
I loved how we learned more about Aarywn's heritage without it being overwhelming. Reading her come into her own power, both in being fae and in her relationships with Fear, Viper and Rathe was incredibly satisfying. It felt natural.
Rathe per usual made me want to rage hit something, Viper made me swoon and laugh and Fear was just his adorable self.
After reading how they do not believe women should bare any household responsibilities in Faery I'm ready to apply for a visa application 🤣
Oh, and the spice? 20/10. So so good and again written in a way that felt second nature. Probably my favorite reverse harem to date because it just feel natural and unforced. They all love and worship Aarwyn so, so much.
I was so so sad when this book came to an end. I angry pounded at my kindle waiting for more pages 😭 I cannot wait for the next book but until then I'll reread my favorite moments 🥰
May 17, 2022
3.75 ⭐️. I liked this more than the first! Mostly cause we saw more of their personalities/got more world building/learned more about the characters. The smut was great. Interested to see where the story goes! Viper is still my baby and I would die for that man.
June 18, 2022
This book and this characters have a way to fascinate and enthrall me, I enjoyed every part of this book, can’t wait for the next one 😍
October 26, 2022
I don’t remember much about this book except for the Reverse harem trope, which is maybe not my thing.
August 25, 2024
Can something happen already! This book was so disappointing...
April 6, 2022
WOW! another amazing book by Stacy! (she can do no wrong). Her and Harper have created such an amazing world. I was hooked since book 1 and practically inhaled book 2. We pick up right were we left off and everything just keeps falling into place. My fave is her relationship with Viper, but I just have a feeling Dommik is going to steal my heart in the next book 😂. No spoilers!! nothing even a hint that something might happen there, but I’m hopeful 🙈. Anyways such a great fun book, great continuation of the story and world building. And the steam 10/10.
March 6, 2024
Easy but ridiculous read.
Good
1) Storytelling continued to be coherent and often lyrical
2) Settings continued to be detailed enough to set stage AND tone without overwhelming the story
3) Series arc continued to be elaborated on
4) The twist involving the was clever and interesting
5) The half-brother 'psychotic' love interest continued to be endlessly entertaining
6) Sex-positive wt a side of clear consent
Neutral
1) This was not a complete story, it was the second installment of a complete story
Annoyance
1) Dear Authors, lampshading a character's lack of will or spirit does not hand wave it and, in fact, just drives home the point that the character is weak
2) Dear Authors, if you must have situations filled with dripping body fluids, at least have the characters clean up afterward (the beard thing was so gross)
Bad
1) Way too much tell as opposed to show
2) Too much horniness, not enough story; we get it, you are a thirsty bitch who doesn't have the balls to initiate sex, can we move along now to something new?
3) Who, in there right mind, just decides to take off their pants and underwear in order to masturbate alone and bare-assed on someone else's front room sofa? Especially when that person has their own guest room just up the stairs? And then, when interrupted right before they reach completion, goes and takes a shower but doesn't finish themselves?
4) World-building continued to be scant
5) The most immediate threat from the first installment involved and the whole situation came to a cheap and unsatisfying close
6) Female lead failed to ask critical, or even typical, questions or act with any type of agency, and spent most of her time with her mind in her twat
7) Towards the end, the female lead demonstrated she has no self-esteem and is just a doormat for the dick.
7a)
7b)
8) Female lead demonstrated she is was not able to make hard decisions and therefore is not fit to rule
9) The prince love interest's characterization continued to be a mess
10) The guard love interest still has no personality
11)
12) Little relationship-building; mainly just hot and heavy sexual attraction forced onto everyone by a magical bond
13) The whole bikini thing was just icky and exploitive
14) Inconsistencies involving the lead females magic; ie.
So much bad.
Good
1) Storytelling continued to be coherent and often lyrical
2) Settings continued to be detailed enough to set stage AND tone without overwhelming the story
3) Series arc continued to be elaborated on
4) The twist involving the was clever and interesting
5) The half-brother 'psychotic' love interest continued to be endlessly entertaining
6) Sex-positive wt a side of clear consent
Neutral
1) This was not a complete story, it was the second installment of a complete story
Annoyance
1) Dear Authors, lampshading a character's lack of will or spirit does not hand wave it and, in fact, just drives home the point that the character is weak
2) Dear Authors, if you must have situations filled with dripping body fluids, at least have the characters clean up afterward (the beard thing was so gross)
Bad
1) Way too much tell as opposed to show
2) Too much horniness, not enough story; we get it, you are a thirsty bitch who doesn't have the balls to initiate sex, can we move along now to something new?
3) Who, in there right mind, just decides to take off their pants and underwear in order to masturbate alone and bare-assed on someone else's front room sofa? Especially when that person has their own guest room just up the stairs? And then, when interrupted right before they reach completion, goes and takes a shower but doesn't finish themselves?
4) World-building continued to be scant
5) The most immediate threat from the first installment involved and the whole situation came to a cheap and unsatisfying close
6) Female lead failed to ask critical, or even typical, questions or act with any type of agency, and spent most of her time with her mind in her twat
7) Towards the end, the female lead demonstrated she has no self-esteem and is just a doormat for the dick.
7a)
7b)
8) Female lead demonstrated she is was not able to make hard decisions and therefore is not fit to rule
9) The prince love interest's characterization continued to be a mess
10) The guard love interest still has no personality
11)
12) Little relationship-building; mainly just hot and heavy sexual attraction forced onto everyone by a magical bond
13) The whole bikini thing was just icky and exploitive
14) Inconsistencies involving the lead females magic; ie.
So much bad.
March 11, 2023
VIPER😍 I don’t think anyone will finish this book without Viper being your new favorite book boyfriend, if he wasn’t already. He LITERALLY made me shed a tear with his broken, psychotic, ADORABLE venerability. Needless to say, Viper really shined for me in this book. I think I highlighted almost an entire 2 chapters of this book just due to Viper. ::sigh::
“He’d raze cities to the ground, would fill oceans with the blood of her enemies, would set the world on fire and dance with her in the ashes to keep that smile on her face.
Unless she wanted to do the razing, in which case he’d happily stand at her side and hand her the matches.” Gaaaah!🥲
Another main character (who I won’t name for minor spoiler reasons but you can totally guess) ALSO LITERALLY made me shed tears but not👊 for 👊 good👊 reasons👊
So yeah… there’s some relationship tension in this one but I have total faith.
Ugh. Honestly, I love all these guys. I wanna squeeze, spank, and kiss all of em. There’s a certain character we meet in the last couple chapters that I’m very very veeeery curious and excited about.
This was a great sequel to the aCoHaS series.
Our MFC continues to be the BAB we know and love with more BABness on the horizon.
I’m not sure how many books are going to be in this series but I feel like we’re still very much in the beginning- I can’t wait!
5 stars
RH
Book 2/?
No OW/Cheating
No MM
✔️Otherworldly magically shaped 🍆🍆’s
“He’d raze cities to the ground, would fill oceans with the blood of her enemies, would set the world on fire and dance with her in the ashes to keep that smile on her face.
Unless she wanted to do the razing, in which case he’d happily stand at her side and hand her the matches.” Gaaaah!🥲
Another main character (who I won’t name for minor spoiler reasons but you can totally guess) ALSO LITERALLY made me shed tears but not👊 for 👊 good👊 reasons👊
So yeah… there’s some relationship tension in this one but I have total faith.
Ugh. Honestly, I love all these guys. I wanna squeeze, spank, and kiss all of em. There’s a certain character we meet in the last couple chapters that I’m very very veeeery curious and excited about.
This was a great sequel to the aCoHaS series.
Our MFC continues to be the BAB we know and love with more BABness on the horizon.
I’m not sure how many books are going to be in this series but I feel like we’re still very much in the beginning- I can’t wait!
5 stars
RH
Book 2/?
No OW/Cheating
No MM
✔️Otherworldly magically shaped 🍆🍆’s
April 4, 2022
This book is everything!! I love all of her men but am obsessed with Viper! He is perfectly crazy and I am in love!! I cannot wait for the next book!!
July 18, 2023
Once again, no explanations. Only vibes.
April 10, 2022
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
After the revelations of book 1, Arawyn now understands who she is but she has a lot of questions that she needs answers, and she still has a long way to go before she can truly become who she was meant to be. Working with Viper, Rathe and Fear, she has every intention of doing just that and learning about her heritage, where she came from and how she ended up in the human realm.
I really enjoyed the character development that happened in this story. I found that while book one obviously introduced us to the three love interests, the romance side of it seemed to really focus on Fear, so I loved that this book let Fear step into the background a little bit and put some focus on the relationship building between Arawyn, Viper and Rathe. I won't lie, Viper is my favourite, so I loved getting to watch the relationship develop. Especially after he was having so much trouble coming to terms with who she really was and what that meant for him. He's a sweet psycho but he has a big heart and we really got to see that in this instalment. Rathe is still dubious because he finds it hard to trust, but he's trying and I really enjoyed that too. There was definitely more smut in this one, which I found worked well for the story, purely because time has been taken to develop the relationship a bit further before they all jumped into bed (besides Fear of course), which is great. I love my smut, but I also love relationship development and feel that it's important to really make the story more real.
Arawyn is still in danger from assassin's being sent after her, so a lot of the story was also about finding out who was responsible for this, mostly from the guys as they were trying to protect her at all costs, especially now that they know who she is. I'm also intrigued by the new character that has shown up and I'm keen to see where things go with their story and their relationship to the MCs.
I will admit, the pacing at times in this one was a little bit off. It didn't drag me in by the throat like the first instalment did, but I still thoroughly enjoyed it. This one felt almost more like a segue instalment, setting us up for the events in book three instead of dropping many ground breaking bombs (don't get me wrong, we learned a couple of things about where Arawyn came from and who they believe is responsible for some stuff, it just wasn't earth shattering). So I'm keen to see what happens in book three and how things will go down.
There's not too much more I can say as I don't want to give anything away. So I'll end with this, the first book was completely enthralling, this one, not as much, but still a super enjoyable read with characters that I've really come to love. I feel like this is more of a 'calm before the storm' instalment, and I am keen to get book three and see what happens to this ragtag group of monsters that have stolen my heart.
After the revelations of book 1, Arawyn now understands who she is but she has a lot of questions that she needs answers, and she still has a long way to go before she can truly become who she was meant to be. Working with Viper, Rathe and Fear, she has every intention of doing just that and learning about her heritage, where she came from and how she ended up in the human realm.
I really enjoyed the character development that happened in this story. I found that while book one obviously introduced us to the three love interests, the romance side of it seemed to really focus on Fear, so I loved that this book let Fear step into the background a little bit and put some focus on the relationship building between Arawyn, Viper and Rathe. I won't lie, Viper is my favourite, so I loved getting to watch the relationship develop. Especially after he was having so much trouble coming to terms with who she really was and what that meant for him. He's a sweet psycho but he has a big heart and we really got to see that in this instalment. Rathe is still dubious because he finds it hard to trust, but he's trying and I really enjoyed that too. There was definitely more smut in this one, which I found worked well for the story, purely because time has been taken to develop the relationship a bit further before they all jumped into bed (besides Fear of course), which is great. I love my smut, but I also love relationship development and feel that it's important to really make the story more real.
Arawyn is still in danger from assassin's being sent after her, so a lot of the story was also about finding out who was responsible for this, mostly from the guys as they were trying to protect her at all costs, especially now that they know who she is. I'm also intrigued by the new character that has shown up and I'm keen to see where things go with their story and their relationship to the MCs.
I will admit, the pacing at times in this one was a little bit off. It didn't drag me in by the throat like the first instalment did, but I still thoroughly enjoyed it. This one felt almost more like a segue instalment, setting us up for the events in book three instead of dropping many ground breaking bombs (don't get me wrong, we learned a couple of things about where Arawyn came from and who they believe is responsible for some stuff, it just wasn't earth shattering). So I'm keen to see what happens in book three and how things will go down.
There's not too much more I can say as I don't want to give anything away. So I'll end with this, the first book was completely enthralling, this one, not as much, but still a super enjoyable read with characters that I've really come to love. I feel like this is more of a 'calm before the storm' instalment, and I am keen to get book three and see what happens to this ragtag group of monsters that have stolen my heart.
April 3, 2022
I've been not so patiently waiting for Through Illusions and Deceit. Harper and Stacey have done an incredible job with the second book in the Court of Gild and Shadows series, the story completely captivated me and caused my emotions to wreak havoc. How could I not love it?
Arawyn is still getting used to the fact that she's fae but she isn't spiraling too badly. She doing all that she can to learn about Faery and how to use her powers. Learning said powers isn't easy and her worry over either hurting the guys or being useless in a fight is putting up some mental roadblocks but she fights to overcome them. Arawyn is a fighter, a survivor and she is determined to protect not only herself from the non-human threats but the guys as well.
OMG! The guys. Fearson is a steady and constant presence. He's comfort and absolute devotion but we have yet to see the warrior side of him, there were some hints and now I'm so curious about how savage he can be. I love Fear but Viper is my favorite. Viper started to pull away after learning who Arawyn was because of all the trauma the king (aka his father) inflicted on him. Viper has a lot of damage both emotionally and physically and is a little crazy but he is so sweet and emotionally fragile. How could I not look at him and go "awe", the man pulls at my heartstrings. Last is Rathe. I'm not gonna sugarcoat this, Rathe messed up, he's a good guy but years of court politics and dealing with his father have done their damage and there will be groveling on his part but overall I can't say no but there still needs to be more groveling.
The pieces to this story are slowly coming together. Arawyn is learning more about the fae, including her parents and the whole political system. These monsters were already unique and interesting, I love seeing more of their monstrous side, plus the new magic we get makes everything incredibly entertaining. There were plenty of hot scenes but there were also some emotional moments and breakthroughs. There was a new character, a guy, who is complex and has a complicated background. I have no idea what his involvement in the story will be and I hate to admit it but I like him. I like him before I knew what his fate was gonna be, now I'm questioning everything, and I can't wait to see where it goes.
Through Illusions and Deceit was fantastic, I loved every minute of it. I have no idea how many books are gonna be in this series but I'm ready for them. The authors have no idea when the third book will be released so I will be low-key dying in the corner while patiently waiting for the next gem in the series.
Arawyn is still getting used to the fact that she's fae but she isn't spiraling too badly. She doing all that she can to learn about Faery and how to use her powers. Learning said powers isn't easy and her worry over either hurting the guys or being useless in a fight is putting up some mental roadblocks but she fights to overcome them. Arawyn is a fighter, a survivor and she is determined to protect not only herself from the non-human threats but the guys as well.
OMG! The guys. Fearson is a steady and constant presence. He's comfort and absolute devotion but we have yet to see the warrior side of him, there were some hints and now I'm so curious about how savage he can be. I love Fear but Viper is my favorite. Viper started to pull away after learning who Arawyn was because of all the trauma the king (aka his father) inflicted on him. Viper has a lot of damage both emotionally and physically and is a little crazy but he is so sweet and emotionally fragile. How could I not look at him and go "awe", the man pulls at my heartstrings. Last is Rathe. I'm not gonna sugarcoat this, Rathe messed up, he's a good guy but years of court politics and dealing with his father have done their damage and there will be groveling on his part but overall I can't say no but there still needs to be more groveling.
The pieces to this story are slowly coming together. Arawyn is learning more about the fae, including her parents and the whole political system. These monsters were already unique and interesting, I love seeing more of their monstrous side, plus the new magic we get makes everything incredibly entertaining. There were plenty of hot scenes but there were also some emotional moments and breakthroughs. There was a new character, a guy, who is complex and has a complicated background. I have no idea what his involvement in the story will be and I hate to admit it but I like him. I like him before I knew what his fate was gonna be, now I'm questioning everything, and I can't wait to see where it goes.
Through Illusions and Deceit was fantastic, I loved every minute of it. I have no idea how many books are gonna be in this series but I'm ready for them. The authors have no idea when the third book will be released so I will be low-key dying in the corner while patiently waiting for the next gem in the series.
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