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Seasons of the Lukoi #1
Winter of the Owl
Sava has the best house in all of Lukos. He built it himself, dreaming of the day when he and Milan, the man he loved, could live there and brave the harsh winters of Lukos together—only to be devastated when Milan was found dead in the spring. Fraught with grief, Sava resigns himself to spending his winters alone.
Then a stranger appears on his doorstep, and everything changes.
Victor is a scholar from Gerakia, a land known for its long summers and vibrant history, and he has never been more unprepared in his life. Abandoned on the inhospitable island of Lukos after a disastrous relationship, Victor has to adapt quickly to survive. It helps, of course, that he’s taken in by Sava, who has the biggest heart of any man Victor has ever known. Victor and Sava start to make a home together, growing close as snow falls outside, but the true danger of a Lukos winter is closer than they suspect...
Then a stranger appears on his doorstep, and everything changes.
Victor is a scholar from Gerakia, a land known for its long summers and vibrant history, and he has never been more unprepared in his life. Abandoned on the inhospitable island of Lukos after a disastrous relationship, Victor has to adapt quickly to survive. It helps, of course, that he’s taken in by Sava, who has the biggest heart of any man Victor has ever known. Victor and Sava start to make a home together, growing close as snow falls outside, but the true danger of a Lukos winter is closer than they suspect...
224 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 21, 2021
39 people are currently reading
627 people want to read
About the author
Iris Foxglove
27 books186 followersIris Foxglove is the shared pen name of Avon Gale (she/her) and Fae Loxley (he/him). Avon and Fae met in fandom in 2019, and began writing fanfiction together in 2020 during lockdown. They eventually decided to collaborate on original fantasy fiction, and haven't looked back since.
They write queer fantasy with an emphasis on biological imperative, natural power exchange dynamics, complex worldbuilding and unforgettable characters.
You can follow Iris on twitter @irisfoxglove, or sign up for Iris' newsletter: http://eepurl.com/hrhA6z
Iris also has a brand-new Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/irisfoxglove
Iris' Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...
You can also follow the authors individually on Twitter and Facebook:
Avon Gale
Twitter: https://twitter.com/avongalewrites
Facebook: https://tinyurl.com/2p8hz4fv
Fae Loxley
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Fae_loxley
Facebook: https://tinyurl.com/mrxt2fnn
They write queer fantasy with an emphasis on biological imperative, natural power exchange dynamics, complex worldbuilding and unforgettable characters.
You can follow Iris on twitter @irisfoxglove, or sign up for Iris' newsletter: http://eepurl.com/hrhA6z
Iris also has a brand-new Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/irisfoxglove
Iris' Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...
You can also follow the authors individually on Twitter and Facebook:
Avon Gale
Twitter: https://twitter.com/avongalewrites
Facebook: https://tinyurl.com/2p8hz4fv
Fae Loxley
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Fae_loxley
Facebook: https://tinyurl.com/mrxt2fnn
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 128 reviews
March 9, 2022
2.80 stars
I really liked the setting and the worldbuilding, as well as the setup for the MCs meeting. The writing was good, but there were a few things that kept this book from working as well as it could’ve. Sava and Victor went from zero to “mates” much faster than I expected and that didn’t ring true to the characterization established at the beginning of the book, I expected them to get to know each other better first and for the decision to be more gradual, to build up a little, not come suddenly from one minute to the next. The BDSM aspect, that seemed so interesting at first with the society distinguished in dominants and submissives, was also a bit of a letdown when it came to the execution. As a result, the relationship didn’t live up to its potential, among other things because the story started focusing on other aspects that culminated in and the OTT ending.
Overall, I enjoyed this, but I liked the first part more and now I’m not so sure if I want to continue with the series.
I really liked the setting and the worldbuilding, as well as the setup for the MCs meeting. The writing was good, but there were a few things that kept this book from working as well as it could’ve. Sava and Victor went from zero to “mates” much faster than I expected and that didn’t ring true to the characterization established at the beginning of the book, I expected them to get to know each other better first and for the decision to be more gradual, to build up a little, not come suddenly from one minute to the next. The BDSM aspect, that seemed so interesting at first with the society distinguished in dominants and submissives, was also a bit of a letdown when it came to the execution. As a result, the relationship didn’t live up to its potential, among other things because the story started focusing on other aspects that culminated in and the OTT ending.
Overall, I enjoyed this, but I liked the first part more and now I’m not so sure if I want to continue with the series.
January 14, 2022
I liked this quiet book a great deal. Victor and Sava are complex MCs with many stories to tell.
The world building is imaginative and interesting. The way Lukos is described reminds me of Alaska: cold and stark, with long, hard winters, but also beautiful and rewarding for those who call it home.
In this fantasy world, each person is either dominant or submissive. I'm not a fan of that concept, because I think for most people dominance/submissiveness falls on a spectrum, much like sexuality, which can change and evolve depending on time and context.
But it worked for Victor and Sava, with a fair power exchange and a few explosive scenes (bondage and blindfolds, no pain or humiliation) where Victor puts his trust in Sava. There's a good deal of hurt/comfort too as Sava and Victor care for each other.
I will admit that it took me a little while to get into this book, as the pacing is rather slow in the beginning. I'm glad I stuck with it, though, because the last few chapters are rather intense, with intrigue and betrayal, and the epilogue brings everything full circle.
Dragan, the leader of the Lukoi, was my favorite secondary character, so I'm thrilled that his story is next.
The world building is imaginative and interesting. The way Lukos is described reminds me of Alaska: cold and stark, with long, hard winters, but also beautiful and rewarding for those who call it home.
In this fantasy world, each person is either dominant or submissive. I'm not a fan of that concept, because I think for most people dominance/submissiveness falls on a spectrum, much like sexuality, which can change and evolve depending on time and context.
But it worked for Victor and Sava, with a fair power exchange and a few explosive scenes (bondage and blindfolds, no pain or humiliation) where Victor puts his trust in Sava. There's a good deal of hurt/comfort too as Sava and Victor care for each other.
I will admit that it took me a little while to get into this book, as the pacing is rather slow in the beginning. I'm glad I stuck with it, though, because the last few chapters are rather intense, with intrigue and betrayal, and the epilogue brings everything full circle.
Dragan, the leader of the Lukoi, was my favorite secondary character, so I'm thrilled that his story is next.
February 14, 2022
Thoroughly enjoyed this one.
It has a warm and quiet vibe about it, with two sympathetic MCs, introducing an interesting story that will no doubt be spun further over the next books.
I liked that both men act sensibly and with a lot of heart. Both come across as totally genuine.
Victor’s enthusiastic curiousness is totally cute without being silly or OTT, and Sava is simply an innately good man, who enjoys his simple life on a very hostile island. In many ways both men are sweetly naïve and good-natured, almost unable to comprehend how people can be bad or evil. (something that almost costs them dearly in the last third of the book).
There is, in fact, a huge emphasis how simple life on Lukos is. And that survival is right on top of everyone’s priority list. Braving the climate sounds truly courageous!
And if you wonder about the fact that people are either born dominant or submissive …. I actually haven’t put this book on my BDSM shelf because apart from a dom/sub feel between the two men and a little bit of bondage nothing else falls into that category.
Sava and Victor's romance is honest, heart-warming and simple in a very good way.
I will return to this world to see where the author is taking this.
It has a warm and quiet vibe about it, with two sympathetic MCs, introducing an interesting story that will no doubt be spun further over the next books.
I liked that both men act sensibly and with a lot of heart. Both come across as totally genuine.
Victor’s enthusiastic curiousness is totally cute without being silly or OTT, and Sava is simply an innately good man, who enjoys his simple life on a very hostile island. In many ways both men are sweetly naïve and good-natured, almost unable to comprehend how people can be bad or evil. (something that almost costs them dearly in the last third of the book).
There is, in fact, a huge emphasis how simple life on Lukos is. And that survival is right on top of everyone’s priority list. Braving the climate sounds truly courageous!
And if you wonder about the fact that people are either born dominant or submissive …. I actually haven’t put this book on my BDSM shelf because apart from a dom/sub feel between the two men and a little bit of bondage nothing else falls into that category.
Sava and Victor's romance is honest, heart-warming and simple in a very good way.
I will return to this world to see where the author is taking this.
December 29, 2021
This is my first book by these two authors and I pleasantly enjoyed this book. I'm excited for more.
What I liked:
- Both characters were lovable and sweet, to each other and to other people.
- Loved the take on BDSM in this world. The authors made it that everyone is either born a Sub or a Dom and they are then mated.
- Loved the "left for dead" trope and how Sava was so attentive and took care of Victor.
- The steam was HOT! Very light BDSM which was extra yummy.
- The ending was very satisfying as was the crisis towards the end.
Niggle:
I did feel like the book dragged towards the middle, but it was a minor issue.
What I liked:
- Both characters were lovable and sweet, to each other and to other people.
- Loved the take on BDSM in this world. The authors made it that everyone is either born a Sub or a Dom and they are then mated.
- Loved the "left for dead" trope and how Sava was so attentive and took care of Victor.
- The steam was HOT! Very light BDSM which was extra yummy.
- The ending was very satisfying as was the crisis towards the end.
Niggle:
I did feel like the book dragged towards the middle, but it was a minor issue.
January 11, 2022
Very occasionally I stumble across a really extraordinary story, this is one of them!
Victor was unprepared and unexpectedly expelled from where he lived, to an island named Lukos. Lukos is a place where winters are deadly for sure. Not the first time Victor was banned, he hopes his lover will come and get him back. Little does he know.
– “Sava Snow-Walker has the nicest house in Lukos,” people said. “His mate will be lucky, next winter.”-
Sadly Sava’s mate Milan died, he will spend the winter alone, grieving. Until Dragan Wolf-Breaker, kuvar of the Lukoi, asks Sava to take care of the stranded stranger who would have died from the cold.
Taking Victor in for the winter is just what people of Lukoi do, they take care of the other.
Sava and Victor speak different languages, luckily Victor knows a bit about the language Lukoi speak.
Emphasis on ‘a bit’, because the confusion about words and the meaning of them was endearing and sometimes so funny.
Sava learns, from what Victor says, that he has a mate. Throughout their time together he has to hold in his growing need to touch and comfort. He also learns Victor was left by his parents, was neglected in an orphan home, send to death by his lover, that he thinks he’s unwanted. The man is amazing with his big wondering eyes, he never saw real snow, he absorbs life to the fullest, a life he never fully lived.
The strong attraction between both men is something they can’t deny any longer or hold back from, thank goodness for winters and a warm house, and a nest full of fur meant for cuddles and much much more.
There’s a sort of bdsm woven into this story, about dominants and submissive, it’s a way of life in this story. It’s present as a natural way of living for everyone.
The biggest part of this narrative is quite mellow, warm and kind. At the end of the story, there’s some angst and thrill that cleared up all the mystery around certain matters.
Thank goodness for their hea, *wipes sweat from forehead*
The world created by the author was just breathtakingly fantastic. Imagine an isolated island, in a time where people’s lives and history are carved in caves, where they live of the land, use the herbs it gives them, where spoons are handmade carved of wood, where ice and snow are prominently unrelentingly present. Where people who survived winter at Lukos get named. The people are strong, warm, and loving! Read it, you will love them!
This story was pure poetry, gosh I loved the writing style, it absolutely spoke to my heart. The story was enthralling, enchanting, with breathtaking scenery.
ALL the stars for this deeply compelling journey!
Read and reviewed for LoveBytes - LGBTQ bookreviews
Victor was unprepared and unexpectedly expelled from where he lived, to an island named Lukos. Lukos is a place where winters are deadly for sure. Not the first time Victor was banned, he hopes his lover will come and get him back. Little does he know.
– “Sava Snow-Walker has the nicest house in Lukos,” people said. “His mate will be lucky, next winter.”-
Sadly Sava’s mate Milan died, he will spend the winter alone, grieving. Until Dragan Wolf-Breaker, kuvar of the Lukoi, asks Sava to take care of the stranded stranger who would have died from the cold.
Taking Victor in for the winter is just what people of Lukoi do, they take care of the other.
Sava and Victor speak different languages, luckily Victor knows a bit about the language Lukoi speak.
Emphasis on ‘a bit’, because the confusion about words and the meaning of them was endearing and sometimes so funny.
Sava learns, from what Victor says, that he has a mate. Throughout their time together he has to hold in his growing need to touch and comfort. He also learns Victor was left by his parents, was neglected in an orphan home, send to death by his lover, that he thinks he’s unwanted. The man is amazing with his big wondering eyes, he never saw real snow, he absorbs life to the fullest, a life he never fully lived.
The strong attraction between both men is something they can’t deny any longer or hold back from, thank goodness for winters and a warm house, and a nest full of fur meant for cuddles and much much more.
There’s a sort of bdsm woven into this story, about dominants and submissive, it’s a way of life in this story. It’s present as a natural way of living for everyone.
The biggest part of this narrative is quite mellow, warm and kind. At the end of the story, there’s some angst and thrill that cleared up all the mystery around certain matters.
Thank goodness for their hea, *wipes sweat from forehead*
The world created by the author was just breathtakingly fantastic. Imagine an isolated island, in a time where people’s lives and history are carved in caves, where they live of the land, use the herbs it gives them, where spoons are handmade carved of wood, where ice and snow are prominently unrelentingly present. Where people who survived winter at Lukos get named. The people are strong, warm, and loving! Read it, you will love them!
This story was pure poetry, gosh I loved the writing style, it absolutely spoke to my heart. The story was enthralling, enchanting, with breathtaking scenery.
ALL the stars for this deeply compelling journey!
Read and reviewed for LoveBytes - LGBTQ bookreviews
May 29, 2025
Yes, you can give a book 3 stars that you really enjoyed, according to my nonsensical rating system. 😂
January 9, 2022
RTC but damn the world building in this book. This is my 7th book by the authors and the world building just keeps getting better and better. The way the authors build the world on their books is so engaging and always keeps me at the edge of my seat. Reading these books is just a pure delight to me.
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest review.
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest review.
December 17, 2021
It pains me to give this 3 stars. Maybe it's my mood, maybe it was my expectation based on the Starian Cycle? I don't know.
This is a feel good story, with the two MCs supporting each other and soaring each other up when the other person needed it and some angst to get the heart pumping. But see here's the thing, the sex scenes weren't as graphic, exciting and titillating as in Starian, something that I noticed with The King's Mage as well which was a bit of let down. Sava and Victor were cute and sweet but I found my self drifting while reading their story unfold.
I loved all the Lukos info and can't wait for more! Although I do know that books 3 and 4 will be MMFs so that's something that I'm still unsure on how I'll proceed (I left MF romance behind for reasons).
This is a feel good story, with the two MCs supporting each other and soaring each other up when the other person needed it and some angst to get the heart pumping. But see here's the thing, the sex scenes weren't as graphic, exciting and titillating as in Starian, something that I noticed with The King's Mage as well which was a bit of let down. Sava and Victor were cute and sweet but I found my self drifting while reading their story unfold.
I loved all the Lukos info and can't wait for more! Although I do know that books 3 and 4 will be MMFs so that's something that I'm still unsure on how I'll proceed (I left MF romance behind for reasons).
January 17, 2022
I liked this but didn't love it. I almost tossed it early on when I found out it was a world made up of dominants and submissives cuz the whole dom/sub thing is not my jam. This was uniquely done and was not necessarily sexual. Glad I pushed on because the dynamics did not bother me at all.
The plot was not super unique but I really liked both of the MC's. They were very sweet together and it was nice to see a couple who weren't having problems or trying to avoid relationships etc that we see so often. These were two guys actively wanting a partner and working to make it happen. No relationship drama between them. No big misunderstandings.
The ending was a bit OTT in my opinion but I'm still looking forward to the next two books. (especially the third one).
This is on Kindle Unlimited if you have that.
The plot was not super unique but I really liked both of the MC's. They were very sweet together and it was nice to see a couple who weren't having problems or trying to avoid relationships etc that we see so often. These were two guys actively wanting a partner and working to make it happen. No relationship drama between them. No big misunderstandings.
The ending was a bit OTT in my opinion but I'm still looking forward to the next two books. (especially the third one).
This is on Kindle Unlimited if you have that.
December 8, 2021
Received an ARC -- thank you!
This is the first book in a new series by the authors of the Starian Cycle. Unlike the first book in that series, Traitor's Mercy, this one isn't nearly as dark. What it DOES have, though, are lots of fun tropes like "only one bed" and "snowed in a house" and a fun opposites attract/stranger-in-a-strange-land romance. I was worried it might not scratch the same itch as the Starian Cycle, which had a wide cast of characters and intrigue. This one is wonderful, though, in a whole new way -- great characters, continued awesome world-building (love all the folklore/mythology) and while the kink wasn't nearly as intense with the whole masochism thing as, say, Sabre's book (Traitor's Mercy), it was really well-integrated into the plot and characters. Also, I'm not a huge fun of sappy books or saccharine, and I like how this book was emotional without veering into sappy. I'm impressed at the ability these authors have to write such different kinds of books, and really looking forward to the next in the series (I believe it's about Dragan, the leader of the Lukoi). These books are really different while keeping that fun, fantasy dom-sub world and I'm really thrilled that we keep getting more.
Also love this cover!
This is the first book in a new series by the authors of the Starian Cycle. Unlike the first book in that series, Traitor's Mercy, this one isn't nearly as dark. What it DOES have, though, are lots of fun tropes like "only one bed" and "snowed in a house" and a fun opposites attract/stranger-in-a-strange-land romance. I was worried it might not scratch the same itch as the Starian Cycle, which had a wide cast of characters and intrigue. This one is wonderful, though, in a whole new way -- great characters, continued awesome world-building (love all the folklore/mythology) and while the kink wasn't nearly as intense with the whole masochism thing as, say, Sabre's book (Traitor's Mercy), it was really well-integrated into the plot and characters. Also, I'm not a huge fun of sappy books or saccharine, and I like how this book was emotional without veering into sappy. I'm impressed at the ability these authors have to write such different kinds of books, and really looking forward to the next in the series (I believe it's about Dragan, the leader of the Lukoi). These books are really different while keeping that fun, fantasy dom-sub world and I'm really thrilled that we keep getting more.
Also love this cover!
Read
April 2, 2024Speaking as a dweller of a frozen wasteland (Massachusetts), truly the only way to make winter bearable is to spend the entire season ensconced in an ultra-luxury nest of pillows and blankets built by someone utterly devoted to you, who will tend the hearth and bring you food and orgasms. Periodically you (hapless bookish type whose only survival skill is being good at languages; no comment) and your lover (giant bear-hunting lumberjack) might briefly go outside to admire the pristine snow. You’ll find these forays enjoyable because, as a fantasy romance protagonist, you will never have to skid your poorly equipped sedan through grey-brown icy slush to commute to work. Anyway, this book is very kinky��dominance and submission are part of the biological worldbuilding—and I thought it was a lot of fun, but there’s discussion of suicide, murder, and abuse, so be warned.
This review originally appeared in Word Suitcase.
This review originally appeared in Word Suitcase.
October 18, 2025
3.5 Stars
I'm a bit torn with this one. It started off really strong... then kind of took a turn when the romance all of a sudden went from 0-60 in like .0001 seconds. Seriously, I still have whiplash. Then... it got a little repetitive, but then it kind of got better towards the end. Overall there were a few times when I felt disappointed. It felt like the author was starting to go down the road of writing something VERY interesting, but then just kind of stalled out about half way. It had a lot of potential but for me it fell short.
I'm a bit torn with this one. It started off really strong... then kind of took a turn when the romance all of a sudden went from 0-60 in like .0001 seconds. Seriously, I still have whiplash. Then... it got a little repetitive, but then it kind of got better towards the end. Overall there were a few times when I felt disappointed. It felt like the author was starting to go down the road of writing something VERY interesting, but then just kind of stalled out about half way. It had a lot of potential but for me it fell short.
Read
December 9, 2021This book features:
*A scholar with a gift for languages showing up on the harshest island in Iperios...right in time for WINTER
*A gentle, big-hearted dominant who is willing to take him in and share supplies!
*Strangers snowed in for the winter!
*Cultural differences!
*An adorable snow kitten!
*Fantasy kink and feelings!
*LORE!
*Found family and a community that literally survived in the harshest conditions imaginable b/c SPITE
This is the first of a new series, set in the same world as THE STARIAN CYCLE but in Lukos, an island populated by the stubborn, determined descendants of exiles from a long-forgotten kingdom. Winter is brutal and the people are no-nonsense, resourceful and terrifyingly competent!
(This series is also a biological kink imperative/natural power exchange universe, which is not intended to resemble IRL BDSM practices or relationships. CW for sickness, grief, loss of family members and discussions of suicide. Please feel free to message the authors for further information if you'd like.)
*A scholar with a gift for languages showing up on the harshest island in Iperios...right in time for WINTER
*A gentle, big-hearted dominant who is willing to take him in and share supplies!
*Strangers snowed in for the winter!
*Cultural differences!
*An adorable snow kitten!
*Fantasy kink and feelings!
*LORE!
*Found family and a community that literally survived in the harshest conditions imaginable b/c SPITE
This is the first of a new series, set in the same world as THE STARIAN CYCLE but in Lukos, an island populated by the stubborn, determined descendants of exiles from a long-forgotten kingdom. Winter is brutal and the people are no-nonsense, resourceful and terrifyingly competent!
(This series is also a biological kink imperative/natural power exchange universe, which is not intended to resemble IRL BDSM practices or relationships. CW for sickness, grief, loss of family members and discussions of suicide. Please feel free to message the authors for further information if you'd like.)
March 23, 2024
Is this the definition of hurt/comfort?
After languishing on my TBR for *cough* too long *cough* I finally read and enjoyed this little gem of a book
- fantasy-esque setting
- sunshine-y sad boi™️ MC (you understand when reading) who has never really been at home
- MC who has only ever wanted to make a home for his future mate
- snowed-in together
- adopting a snow kitten together
- learning each other's cultures
- caretaking (while ill and in general)
- love languages (acts of service, gifts)
Sweet all around!
NSFW infos:
- Society in which people are born as submissive or dominant
Dominant MC is larger, home maker and tops
Submissive MC is smaller, has glasses (very good glasses rep), bottoms
Bondage and Blindfolding
Nickname:
Little Owl
After languishing on my TBR for *cough* too long *cough* I finally read and enjoyed this little gem of a book
- fantasy-esque setting
- sunshine-y sad boi™️ MC (you understand when reading) who has never really been at home
- MC who has only ever wanted to make a home for his future mate
- snowed-in together
- adopting a snow kitten together
- learning each other's cultures
- caretaking (while ill and in general)
- love languages (acts of service, gifts)
Sweet all around!
NSFW infos:
- Society in which people are born as submissive or dominant
Dominant MC is larger, home maker and tops
Submissive MC is smaller, has glasses (very good glasses rep), bottoms
Bondage and Blindfolding
Nickname:
Little Owl
February 22, 2024
So much to love about this!
❄️Speedy, the true hero of the story
❄️Two people falling in love and helping each other overcome their past and insecurities
❄️The worldbuilding. So much of it is shared by stories Victor and Sava share with each other, and it’s told beautifully.
❄️The imagery. I loved seeing Lukos through Victor’s eyes because he’s so happy and he makes it sound beautiful! (Even though I’d never actually live there. I’m not meant for the cold.)
❄️The suspense plot
❄️Speedy, the true hero of the story
❄️Two people falling in love and helping each other overcome their past and insecurities
❄️The worldbuilding. So much of it is shared by stories Victor and Sava share with each other, and it’s told beautifully.
❄️The imagery. I loved seeing Lukos through Victor’s eyes because he’s so happy and he makes it sound beautiful! (Even though I’d never actually live there. I’m not meant for the cold.)
❄️The suspense plot
June 18, 2022
A scholar is abandoned on a remote island nation known for its harsh winters. Both MCs are much more than their tropes, and their relationship doesn’t play out quite how you’d expect. Victor is the nerdy scholar who doesn’t know how to provide for himself, but he still brings a lot to the relationship and the community and is appreciated for his talents instead of scorned for his lack of survival skills. Sava is the self-sufficient provider, but he’s also big-hearted and in need of affection. Together they bring out the best in each other.
The Lukoi culture was interesting and fairly well-developed, though the authors inadvertently made it seem like there were about five people total in the town. (The second book does a better job with this.) The biological dominance/submission aspect, which I understand comes from the authors’ previous series in this world, mostly felt like an afterthought and didn’t bring much to the story or characters. The strong character development makes up for those worldbuilding issues, though.
The Lukoi culture was interesting and fairly well-developed, though the authors inadvertently made it seem like there were about five people total in the town. (The second book does a better job with this.) The biological dominance/submission aspect, which I understand comes from the authors’ previous series in this world, mostly felt like an afterthought and didn’t bring much to the story or characters. The strong character development makes up for those worldbuilding issues, though.
November 6, 2022
This was stinking adorable! I find the bio-kink in the writing duo's series to be super interesting.
Speedy the snow cat was a perfect addition to the story, and I loved his random cat quirks and arcs.
Snowed in for the winter vibes, mates, caretaking and working through grief and insecurities. I really enjoyed this, plus the narration was two thumbs up! Kris Antham did a great job.
Speedy the snow cat was a perfect addition to the story, and I loved his random cat quirks and arcs.
Snowed in for the winter vibes, mates, caretaking and working through grief and insecurities. I really enjoyed this, plus the narration was two thumbs up! Kris Antham did a great job.
March 20, 2022
It's not going to matter ultimately since I'm enjoying this book, but, in a place with so few people and little advance technology, where did they get glass for windows?
As other reviewers have said, this is a lovely, unusual romance, with a thread of danger and a happy ending. The worldbuilding is perfect, organic enough to feel real, and the characters are really good. I will probably give the next book a try. This author's work doesn't all appeal to me, but this one was a delight.
As other reviewers have said, this is a lovely, unusual romance, with a thread of danger and a happy ending. The worldbuilding is perfect, organic enough to feel real, and the characters are really good. I will probably give the next book a try. This author's work doesn't all appeal to me, but this one was a delight.
July 17, 2022
Lukoi: where the exiled learned to thrive
Fantastic world building with a beautiful story.
I appreciate how the story took time to build layers of depth while constantly moving forward and taking the reader with Victor along his journey.
In this world of natural born Dominants and submissive, the bit of kink was never the focus and instead blended well into each person’s character.
Fantastic world building with a beautiful story.
I appreciate how the story took time to build layers of depth while constantly moving forward and taking the reader with Victor along his journey.
In this world of natural born Dominants and submissive, the bit of kink was never the focus and instead blended well into each person’s character.
January 3, 2022
4 stars
*** Arc provided by GRR. This is my honest review ***
This my first book by this set of authors and I enjoyed it
I loved Victor and his constant joy at all the new things coming his way. He could have been a more somber character, especially due to his upbringing, but he took joy in every new experience and it was nice to read.
Sava was also a good character. He suffered a lot of guilt over what happened to his previous mate to be, but that didn't stop him from opening up his home to man in need.
I enjoyed the set up of this one. It was a slower book but that worked for me as it gave the guys time to get to know each other and the use of the winter stay in helped them in really connecting.
Looking forward to seeing where this series leads
*** Arc provided by GRR. This is my honest review ***
This my first book by this set of authors and I enjoyed it
I loved Victor and his constant joy at all the new things coming his way. He could have been a more somber character, especially due to his upbringing, but he took joy in every new experience and it was nice to read.
Sava was also a good character. He suffered a lot of guilt over what happened to his previous mate to be, but that didn't stop him from opening up his home to man in need.
I enjoyed the set up of this one. It was a slower book but that worked for me as it gave the guys time to get to know each other and the use of the winter stay in helped them in really connecting.
Looking forward to seeing where this series leads
December 28, 2021
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
Winter of the Owl is the first book in Iris Foxglove’s new Seasons of the Lukoi series. The series takes place in the same world as the authors’ Starian Cycle series, but this book stands alone perfectly and I had no trouble following along having not read the other series. Lukos is an island about which little is known and that is very separated from the rest of the world, so it has its own lore and world building. And that world building is really nicely done here. I love the idea of this community built from exiles, people pushed out of their homes who had to find a way to survive. As we learn, the early settlers banded together and formed a new society in this frigid and dangerous land. Now, the Lukos have a deep sense of community, helping one another survive and coming together to celebrate and share rituals. The land is so unforgiving that everyone is snowed in for most of winter, which means preparations are key and only the strongest survive.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
Winter of the Owl is the first book in Iris Foxglove’s new Seasons of the Lukoi series. The series takes place in the same world as the authors’ Starian Cycle series, but this book stands alone perfectly and I had no trouble following along having not read the other series. Lukos is an island about which little is known and that is very separated from the rest of the world, so it has its own lore and world building. And that world building is really nicely done here. I love the idea of this community built from exiles, people pushed out of their homes who had to find a way to survive. As we learn, the early settlers banded together and formed a new society in this frigid and dangerous land. Now, the Lukos have a deep sense of community, helping one another survive and coming together to celebrate and share rituals. The land is so unforgiving that everyone is snowed in for most of winter, which means preparations are key and only the strongest survive.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
June 18, 2022
The world building for the island and the Lukoi people was quite good. The romance between dreamer-loner Victor and big-buff-heart-broken Sava wasn't insta but there really wasn't any credible obstacle to their getting together once they got snowed in for the ferocious Lukoi winter. I have to admit all the dom/sub references (mild as they were) didn't add to my enjoyment levels and I foresaw the 2.5 stars rounded up to 3.
Read
January 15, 2022Sheesh! I wrote my review and saved it. Second guessed, edited and saved again. Third guessed, edited and saved again.
Now I’m back once more, deleting the whole thing. I’ll just say I was lukewarm with the story and when I finished the book I learned Iris Foxglove is Avon Gale and Fae Loxley.
I won’t continue the series.
Now I’m back once more, deleting the whole thing. I’ll just say I was lukewarm with the story and when I finished the book I learned Iris Foxglove is Avon Gale and Fae Loxley.
I won’t continue the series.
January 15, 2022
*3.5 stars*
this was very sweet and comforting. it has a few drawbacks but nothing that's too annoying. i'm looking forward to the second book!
this was very sweet and comforting. it has a few drawbacks but nothing that's too annoying. i'm looking forward to the second book!
January 15, 2022
Book Reaction: https://neverhollowed.com/2022/01/15/...
Rating: 4.5 Stars – perfection is only half a step away
Rating: 4.5 Stars – perfection is only half a step away
December 15, 2021
This was an incredible addition to the world they've been creating. All the little pieces about the other cultures come together, wrapped I'm ice, snow, and a long winter. Of course this book contains spicy scenes, well developed characters, the foundation for a new society and develop ideas from the other books and short stories. I loved it. I devoured it. I am excited to read more, as always. 5 stars.
December 26, 2021
3.5
While enjoyable enough I was expecting this book to be as exciting as the Starian Cycle series. I do think I’ll read the next one. It’ll depend on book 2 if I finish the series or not. I’ve seen other reviews stating 3&4 will be MMF and it’s not usually my thing (I try to stick with MM) I’m willing to give them a shot if book 2 is good.
The plot was very easy to figure out. Including the villain.
There were also a lot of similarities between Lukos and Ergh from The Barbarian Duet by Keira Andrews. Not plagiarism in the least but SUPER noticeable anyway.
I received a copy of this book from GRR and this is my honest review.
While enjoyable enough I was expecting this book to be as exciting as the Starian Cycle series. I do think I’ll read the next one. It’ll depend on book 2 if I finish the series or not. I’ve seen other reviews stating 3&4 will be MMF and it’s not usually my thing (I try to stick with MM) I’m willing to give them a shot if book 2 is good.
The plot was very easy to figure out. Including the villain.
There were also a lot of similarities between Lukos and Ergh from The Barbarian Duet by Keira Andrews. Not plagiarism in the least but SUPER noticeable anyway.
I received a copy of this book from GRR and this is my honest review.
March 7, 2022
ALL the stars! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐!
December 30, 2021
Victor, a naïve orphan is tricked into exile by a cold hearted lover of the summer land. Abandoned to a desolate land of deadly winters and embraced by the warm hearted strangers that dwell there, he has to survive demons both internal and external.
January 22, 2022
Since I’ve never read anything by Iris Foxglove before, I didn’t quite know what to expect. I have to admit that Winter of the Owl took me by surprise.
Lukos was a brutal place, but the people who lived there had learned how to adapt to its unforgiving winters. In order for Victor to survive, he needed help and pairing him with Sava seemed the most logical choice. Neither man knew how perfect that choice would turn out to be.
Sometimes it takes someone from the outside to see something that isn’t quite so obvious to someone else. That turned out to be true of both men in this scenario. Sava was so blinded by grief and guilt he didn’t recognize the true danger. Victor was so used to being put down that he didn’t recognize his own worth. Victor and Sava helped each other survive the winter and discovered some important truths along the way.
Seasons of the Lukoi is going to be an interesting series to follow and I can’t wait to continue with Spring of the Wolf, Summer of the Wanderer and Autumn of the Witch.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of Winter of the Owl. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Lukos was a brutal place, but the people who lived there had learned how to adapt to its unforgiving winters. In order for Victor to survive, he needed help and pairing him with Sava seemed the most logical choice. Neither man knew how perfect that choice would turn out to be.
Sometimes it takes someone from the outside to see something that isn’t quite so obvious to someone else. That turned out to be true of both men in this scenario. Sava was so blinded by grief and guilt he didn’t recognize the true danger. Victor was so used to being put down that he didn’t recognize his own worth. Victor and Sava helped each other survive the winter and discovered some important truths along the way.
Seasons of the Lukoi is going to be an interesting series to follow and I can’t wait to continue with Spring of the Wolf, Summer of the Wanderer and Autumn of the Witch.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of Winter of the Owl. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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