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The Book of All Things #4
The Melody and the Master
Her song is death. His offer is life.
Disappear into this twisty tale of a ruthless heir and the sheltered, gifted orphan he chooses as both his wife and his greatest weapon against a growing list of enemies.
Siofra has lived her entire life in isolation, terrified of her unrestrained dark magic. Then the unthinkable happens, and she and her brother are imprisoned for murder.
Before the law can deliver their punishment, the siblings are rescued by a mysterious benefactor, whisked away to a glamorous manor in the far north, where everyone treats them like a prince and princess.
Shadowfen Hall, and the surrounding forest, keeps a wall between Desemir and his rivals. His lack of heir leaves him vulnerable, but to marry within his peerage would ignite the very coup he needs to avoid.
Siofra and Desemir’s needs conveniently intersect. She needs protection for herself and her brother. He needs a wife and children to secure his legacy.
If it all seems too good to be true, it is.
Because everyone knows darkness can only be soothed, not contained.
__
The Book of All Things is a series of standalone fantasy romance tales set in the vibrant, epic world first introduced by USA Today Bestselling Author Sarah M. Cradit in the Kingdom of the White Sea trilogy.
The Melody and the Master is a marriage of convenience dark fantasy romance tale set in the Kingdom of the White Sea universe, with hints of Beauty and the Beast, Hades and Persephone, and Jane Eyre. It is the first story in the Darkwood Cycle of The Book of All Things.
Disappear into this twisty tale of a ruthless heir and the sheltered, gifted orphan he chooses as both his wife and his greatest weapon against a growing list of enemies.
Siofra has lived her entire life in isolation, terrified of her unrestrained dark magic. Then the unthinkable happens, and she and her brother are imprisoned for murder.
Before the law can deliver their punishment, the siblings are rescued by a mysterious benefactor, whisked away to a glamorous manor in the far north, where everyone treats them like a prince and princess.
Shadowfen Hall, and the surrounding forest, keeps a wall between Desemir and his rivals. His lack of heir leaves him vulnerable, but to marry within his peerage would ignite the very coup he needs to avoid.
Siofra and Desemir’s needs conveniently intersect. She needs protection for herself and her brother. He needs a wife and children to secure his legacy.
If it all seems too good to be true, it is.
Because everyone knows darkness can only be soothed, not contained.
__
The Book of All Things is a series of standalone fantasy romance tales set in the vibrant, epic world first introduced by USA Today Bestselling Author Sarah M. Cradit in the Kingdom of the White Sea trilogy.
The Melody and the Master is a marriage of convenience dark fantasy romance tale set in the Kingdom of the White Sea universe, with hints of Beauty and the Beast, Hades and Persephone, and Jane Eyre. It is the first story in the Darkwood Cycle of The Book of All Things.
492 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 4, 2022
25 people are currently reading
1734 people want to read
About the author
Sarah M. Cradit
99 books898 followersSarah is the USA Today and International Bestselling Author of over forty contemporary and epic fantasy stories, and the creator of the Kingdom of the White Sea and Saga of Crimson & Clover universes.
Born a geek, Sarah spends her time crafting rich and multilayered worlds, obsessing over history, playing her retribution paladin (and sometimes destruction warlock), and settling provocative Tolkien debates, such as why the Great Eagles are not Gandalf's personal taxi service. Passionate about travel, she's been to over twenty countries collecting sparks of inspiration, and is always planning her next adventure.
Sarah and her husband live in a beautiful corner of SE Pennsylvania with their three tiny benevolent pug dictators.
Connect with Sarah:
sarahmcradit.com
Instagram: @sarahmcradit
Facebook: @sarahmcradit
Born a geek, Sarah spends her time crafting rich and multilayered worlds, obsessing over history, playing her retribution paladin (and sometimes destruction warlock), and settling provocative Tolkien debates, such as why the Great Eagles are not Gandalf's personal taxi service. Passionate about travel, she's been to over twenty countries collecting sparks of inspiration, and is always planning her next adventure.
Sarah and her husband live in a beautiful corner of SE Pennsylvania with their three tiny benevolent pug dictators.
Connect with Sarah:
sarahmcradit.com
Instagram: @sarahmcradit
Facebook: @sarahmcradit
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 144 reviews
August 14, 2023
3 Familiar Stars ⭐
Spicy Level: 🌶️🌶️/5
I have no idea what the plot of this book was about. But that's because the more I think about it, I don't think there was a plot. I think there were a couple of short, interconnected little developments, but this was more like a dark slice-of-life drama.
Seeing how two broken, traumatized, flawed characters find themselves and heal on a journey while discovering who they are, discovering what they mean to each other, and what it means to love and be loved in return.
This story follows Siofra and her twin brother Stiofen (Fen). They have been made slaves to a prominent family because they possess "Magic" and it would be a death sentence to both if the world were to find out about it. An accident happens that puts the two of them in a very precarious situation. However, they are rescued very soon by Pesha, who brings them to his home and his brother Desimer. Des gives Siofra an arrangement that she can have full freedom if she will agree to marry him and provide him with an heir, as he has a need for one. Thus the two find themselves in a marriage of convenience.
My main problem with this is that I picked it up going into it thinking it was a standalone. While it "technically" is, the initial start, the worldbuilding and magic system were (and still are) VERY CONFUSING as it seemed that there was a lot of terminology and aspects referred to, that I needed to have previously understood going into the book. I still don't know how their magic works or how the world works. Though I did like that this felt like a historical romance.
While there is a sweet Found Family Element I battled forming a connection with anyone really, especially Des and Si as it seemed like they were making their own drama. They would assume things and get angry when the other reacted to those assumptions. They would jump to conclusions based on lack of communication and miscommunication and this cycle repeated NUMEROUS TIMES!!! If everyone just sat down together and talked it out they would have avoided some unnecessary emotional drama.
I also was annoyed at almost the Drama Queen Attitude both Si and Des displayed. Si spends a lot of time, trying to say she's not fragile, but she is so fragile that she would break down, mope, cry and feel sorry for herself for basically the whole book. Des was so self-deprecating and destructive that he felt like a man baby throwing a tantrum when he didn't get his way...
Overall this was just OK for me.
Tropes if you want them:
▶ Age Gap
▶ Marriage of Convenience
▶ Emotional Trauma
▶ Found Family
▶ Magic
Spicy Level: 🌶️🌶️/5
I have no idea what the plot of this book was about. But that's because the more I think about it, I don't think there was a plot. I think there were a couple of short, interconnected little developments, but this was more like a dark slice-of-life drama.
Seeing how two broken, traumatized, flawed characters find themselves and heal on a journey while discovering who they are, discovering what they mean to each other, and what it means to love and be loved in return.
This story follows Siofra and her twin brother Stiofen (Fen). They have been made slaves to a prominent family because they possess "Magic" and it would be a death sentence to both if the world were to find out about it. An accident happens that puts the two of them in a very precarious situation. However, they are rescued very soon by Pesha, who brings them to his home and his brother Desimer. Des gives Siofra an arrangement that she can have full freedom if she will agree to marry him and provide him with an heir, as he has a need for one. Thus the two find themselves in a marriage of convenience.
My main problem with this is that I picked it up going into it thinking it was a standalone. While it "technically" is, the initial start, the worldbuilding and magic system were (and still are) VERY CONFUSING as it seemed that there was a lot of terminology and aspects referred to, that I needed to have previously understood going into the book. I still don't know how their magic works or how the world works. Though I did like that this felt like a historical romance.
While there is a sweet Found Family Element I battled forming a connection with anyone really, especially Des and Si as it seemed like they were making their own drama. They would assume things and get angry when the other reacted to those assumptions. They would jump to conclusions based on lack of communication and miscommunication and this cycle repeated NUMEROUS TIMES!!! If everyone just sat down together and talked it out they would have avoided some unnecessary emotional drama.
I also was annoyed at almost the Drama Queen Attitude both Si and Des displayed. Si spends a lot of time, trying to say she's not fragile, but she is so fragile that she would break down, mope, cry and feel sorry for herself for basically the whole book. Des was so self-deprecating and destructive that he felt like a man baby throwing a tantrum when he didn't get his way...
Overall this was just OK for me.
Tropes if you want them:
▶ Age Gap
▶ Marriage of Convenience
▶ Emotional Trauma
▶ Found Family
▶ Magic
September 17, 2022
The Melody and the Master is another exciting romantasy in The Book of All Things series. With well-developed characters, a wonderful found family, and a unique story with Beauty and the Beast and Jane Eyre vibes, it’s an immersive and entertaining read.
Desemir and Siofra are fascinating and complex protagonists. Both are so emotional and impulsive. They are passionate but often act and react without thinking things through. There are times when they give up on each other so quickly in the hopes of saving the other from pain and heartbreak, but they don’t realize doing this hurts more. It makes sense considering the way their relationship began and that they’ve only built a tentative trust with each other, and I so wanted them to be more forthcoming with their true feelings and for them to fully trust and confide in each other, especially considering their explosive chemistry and obvious love for each other.
The romance between Siofra and Desemir is riddled with obstacles, both internal and external. A marriage of convenience between strangers, there are a lot of secrets between them. However, their connection and chemistry are off the charts almost from the start. They are so drawn to each other, and amid betrayal, secrecy, lies, and threats from enemies, that connection only grows. This is the steamiest romance in the series so far!
I really love the Beauty and the Beast and Jane Eyre vibes throughout the story. From the mysterious and forbidden west wing to the haunting shrieks and secrets many hold, the story has a dark and Gothic feel. I think this is the darkest book in the series so far, especially as the characters face deadly threats from their enemies, brutal kidnappings, attempted assaults, and more.
The sibling relationships are also quite fascinating and layered, and I like how the book explored the complexities of these bonds. They stand in stark contrast to some of the other familial relationships in the story, and they show that, though these siblings don’t always see eye to eye, their love for each other is unwavering. All relationships have their ups and downs, good times and regrets, and the sibling relationships in this story show that well, especially Fen and Si. I think Fen learns a lot about his sister, her strengths, her needs, and her desire for freedom and choice.
Something else I really love about this series is the extensive world-building. Cradit has such a talent for creating unique and immersive worlds, and the world is ever-expanding. It’s vivid and rich, and I’m enjoying the contrasts in the different kingdoms and landscapes. As expansive as it is, it never feels overwhelming or superfluous, and the settings definitely add to the ambiance, tone, and actions of the characters.
Special thanks to Sarah M. Cradit for providing me with an advanced copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
Desemir and Siofra are fascinating and complex protagonists. Both are so emotional and impulsive. They are passionate but often act and react without thinking things through. There are times when they give up on each other so quickly in the hopes of saving the other from pain and heartbreak, but they don’t realize doing this hurts more. It makes sense considering the way their relationship began and that they’ve only built a tentative trust with each other, and I so wanted them to be more forthcoming with their true feelings and for them to fully trust and confide in each other, especially considering their explosive chemistry and obvious love for each other.
The romance between Siofra and Desemir is riddled with obstacles, both internal and external. A marriage of convenience between strangers, there are a lot of secrets between them. However, their connection and chemistry are off the charts almost from the start. They are so drawn to each other, and amid betrayal, secrecy, lies, and threats from enemies, that connection only grows. This is the steamiest romance in the series so far!
I really love the Beauty and the Beast and Jane Eyre vibes throughout the story. From the mysterious and forbidden west wing to the haunting shrieks and secrets many hold, the story has a dark and Gothic feel. I think this is the darkest book in the series so far, especially as the characters face deadly threats from their enemies, brutal kidnappings, attempted assaults, and more.
The sibling relationships are also quite fascinating and layered, and I like how the book explored the complexities of these bonds. They stand in stark contrast to some of the other familial relationships in the story, and they show that, though these siblings don’t always see eye to eye, their love for each other is unwavering. All relationships have their ups and downs, good times and regrets, and the sibling relationships in this story show that well, especially Fen and Si. I think Fen learns a lot about his sister, her strengths, her needs, and her desire for freedom and choice.
Something else I really love about this series is the extensive world-building. Cradit has such a talent for creating unique and immersive worlds, and the world is ever-expanding. It’s vivid and rich, and I’m enjoying the contrasts in the different kingdoms and landscapes. As expansive as it is, it never feels overwhelming or superfluous, and the settings definitely add to the ambiance, tone, and actions of the characters.
Special thanks to Sarah M. Cradit for providing me with an advanced copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
October 10, 2022
''I once believed I was not worthy of love. That I wasn't built to give or receive such a blessing. Happiness was for those who were not abominations. When in truth, I had just not yet met the one I was meant to love, and who was meant to love me.''
4.5 magical ⭐'s
The Melody and the Master is a marriage of convenience dark fantasy romance tale set in the Kingdom of the White Sea universe, with hints of Beauty and the Beast, Hades and Persephone, and Jane Eyre. It is the first story in the Darkwood Cycle of The Book of All Things (a series of standalone fantasy romance tales). It's the spiciest story from all of them. So far 🔥
Story starts with Siofra and Stiofen - twins, who have been very unlucky after their parents death. They have been mistreated, used for their unique gifts and lead to false safety in the form of gilded cage. After being imprisoned, awaiting a predictable fate, they are rescued under false representation. A mysterious Master of Forests offers a protection and freedom, in a form of marriage. But just because this ruse of convenience has begun, it will not be the end of danger, secrets and heartache. Will Si and Des find their HEA? What will happen with Fen and Pesha?
I will say this - Sarah has yet again masterfully created a beautiful world with lots of elements, unique magic, captivating characters and dark secrets, that will haunt some of your moments. I liked author's lyrical writing style, but I had occasionally issues with explanations. I noticed already earlier, that Sarah tends to explain backgrounds and situations often, but it's a fine line between giving enough information without overwhelming reader and giving too much away. Or explaining basic ways on why and how character X did this or that. That's why not 5 stars this time. This and because I felt that story was bit too long. But that's just probably me. Also, kudos for including art in book! I am sucker for character art in general, and seeing some of Darkwood art made my dark heart beat faster. I loved that we were kept in suspense over some untold truths and secrets.
Si/Fen and Des/Pesha - this story is not just about romantic relationships. Sibling relationships is one of my favorite in the book. Each of their own bonds are forged trough past events - obstacles, that were full of suffering, darkness and pain. They are their own saviors and protectors. They grew up together, fought together and they survived together. Nothing is as strong as sibling love.
"You were enough for me. Even with all your faults, your strange desires, your unwillingness to accept real affection. You were enough."
Si and Des - they definitely are complex characters. Somehow both - greatest strength and weakness for each other. Lonely, despite their siblings bond. Emotional and impulsive, despite their somewhat collected and calm demeanor. I was happy with the way how they grow together along the story. They faced their fears and secrets, they learned to forgive and accept each other. It was a rollercoaster of emotions occasionally. Especially Des's nocturnal escapades.. I mean Des, love.. after your wedding night, you do that? I was fuming and sending comments to my buddy, who read this book with me. But this aside, it was so natural to see their connection getting stronger with each chapter, despite all lies and secrecy. There were moments, when I really felt sad for both of them. They each deserved long hugs and much needed love. Des was a mystery for me for the longest part of the story and I loved it. And when I learned the big secret that he withhold - my emotions were all over the place. And Si was an interesting character with unique sort of magic, that I haven't heard before. I enjoyed to read how she learned and expanded her world, due to isolated upbringings. Small things that made her happy, truly happy. No one, except her brother, showed her any kindness. Always exhausted, always on offence.
''You get pleasure when I give you pleasure,'' he said. ''Not much of a punishment. I'm beginning to think that you're all roar, no bite.'' ''You want a lion? I'll give you a lion.''
Fen and Pesha - Ok. I am still salty at Pesha and co for lying to Si for the longest time ever. You know what I am talking about reader! That aside, I adoooored this duo! They're gifts to each other and deep meaning behind them melted my heart. Small interactions and trust, that slowly grew stronger. Ahh.. I would love to read more of them.
Thank you to Sarah M. Cradit and her team, for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review! All thoughts are my own and left voluntarily.
Art by @artbysteffani
Art by @artbysteffani
4.5 magical ⭐'s
The Melody and the Master is a marriage of convenience dark fantasy romance tale set in the Kingdom of the White Sea universe, with hints of Beauty and the Beast, Hades and Persephone, and Jane Eyre. It is the first story in the Darkwood Cycle of The Book of All Things (a series of standalone fantasy romance tales). It's the spiciest story from all of them. So far 🔥
Story starts with Siofra and Stiofen - twins, who have been very unlucky after their parents death. They have been mistreated, used for their unique gifts and lead to false safety in the form of gilded cage. After being imprisoned, awaiting a predictable fate, they are rescued under false representation. A mysterious Master of Forests offers a protection and freedom, in a form of marriage. But just because this ruse of convenience has begun, it will not be the end of danger, secrets and heartache. Will Si and Des find their HEA? What will happen with Fen and Pesha?
I will say this - Sarah has yet again masterfully created a beautiful world with lots of elements, unique magic, captivating characters and dark secrets, that will haunt some of your moments. I liked author's lyrical writing style, but I had occasionally issues with explanations. I noticed already earlier, that Sarah tends to explain backgrounds and situations often, but it's a fine line between giving enough information without overwhelming reader and giving too much away. Or explaining basic ways on why and how character X did this or that. That's why not 5 stars this time. This and because I felt that story was bit too long. But that's just probably me. Also, kudos for including art in book! I am sucker for character art in general, and seeing some of Darkwood art made my dark heart beat faster. I loved that we were kept in suspense over some untold truths and secrets.
Si/Fen and Des/Pesha - this story is not just about romantic relationships. Sibling relationships is one of my favorite in the book. Each of their own bonds are forged trough past events - obstacles, that were full of suffering, darkness and pain. They are their own saviors and protectors. They grew up together, fought together and they survived together. Nothing is as strong as sibling love.
"You were enough for me. Even with all your faults, your strange desires, your unwillingness to accept real affection. You were enough."
Si and Des - they definitely are complex characters. Somehow both - greatest strength and weakness for each other. Lonely, despite their siblings bond. Emotional and impulsive, despite their somewhat collected and calm demeanor. I was happy with the way how they grow together along the story. They faced their fears and secrets, they learned to forgive and accept each other. It was a rollercoaster of emotions occasionally. Especially Des's nocturnal escapades.. I mean Des, love.. after your wedding night, you do that? I was fuming and sending comments to my buddy, who read this book with me. But this aside, it was so natural to see their connection getting stronger with each chapter, despite all lies and secrecy. There were moments, when I really felt sad for both of them. They each deserved long hugs and much needed love. Des was a mystery for me for the longest part of the story and I loved it. And when I learned the big secret that he withhold - my emotions were all over the place. And Si was an interesting character with unique sort of magic, that I haven't heard before. I enjoyed to read how she learned and expanded her world, due to isolated upbringings. Small things that made her happy, truly happy. No one, except her brother, showed her any kindness. Always exhausted, always on offence.
''You get pleasure when I give you pleasure,'' he said. ''Not much of a punishment. I'm beginning to think that you're all roar, no bite.'' ''You want a lion? I'll give you a lion.''
Fen and Pesha - Ok. I am still salty at Pesha and co for lying to Si for the longest time ever. You know what I am talking about reader! That aside, I adoooored this duo! They're gifts to each other and deep meaning behind them melted my heart. Small interactions and trust, that slowly grew stronger. Ahh.. I would love to read more of them.
Thank you to Sarah M. Cradit and her team, for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review! All thoughts are my own and left voluntarily.
Art by @artbysteffani
Art by @artbysteffani
June 9, 2023
5.0 - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
3.5 - 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Sarah’s books are beautifully put together. From the cover art to the character art, to the story. I loved and enjoyed every single minute of it.
The Melody and the Master is captivating, and by the end it had turned into a beautiful love story.
Desemir and Siofra are the ultimate power couple!
𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬:
- 𝙼𝙰𝚁𝚁𝙸𝙰𝙶𝙴 𝙾𝙵 𝙲𝙾𝙽𝚅𝙴𝙽𝙸𝙴𝙽𝙲𝙴
- 𝙰𝙶𝙴 𝙶𝙰𝙿
- 𝚂𝚃𝚁𝙰𝙽𝙶𝙴𝚁𝚂 𝚃𝙾 𝙵𝚁𝙸𝙴𝙽𝙳𝚂 𝚃𝙾 𝙻𝙾𝚅𝙴𝚁𝚂
- 𝚃𝙾𝚄𝙲𝙷 𝙷𝙴𝚁 𝙰𝙽𝙳 𝙳𝙸𝙴
𝐒𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐡𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐡𝐚𝐝 𝐦𝐞 𝐬𝐰𝐨𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠:
“When the last syllable of her name left his tongue, he realized it was a name he would say for the rest of his life.”
“I would bleed every last drop of my blood onto these stones to keep her safe.”
“It wasn’t a crime to enjoy his time with her. To desire her.”
“And once more I am his, and he is mine…”
“The things I’m going to do to you would stun the nobility.”
“I am catastrophically in love with you, Siofra,” he said, drawing out each word. “I’m terrified of this love.” … “But I don’t want to be.”
3.5 - 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Sarah’s books are beautifully put together. From the cover art to the character art, to the story. I loved and enjoyed every single minute of it.
The Melody and the Master is captivating, and by the end it had turned into a beautiful love story.
Desemir and Siofra are the ultimate power couple!
𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬:
- 𝙼𝙰𝚁𝚁𝙸𝙰𝙶𝙴 𝙾𝙵 𝙲𝙾𝙽𝚅𝙴𝙽𝙸𝙴𝙽𝙲𝙴
- 𝙰𝙶𝙴 𝙶𝙰𝙿
- 𝚂𝚃𝚁𝙰𝙽𝙶𝙴𝚁𝚂 𝚃𝙾 𝙵𝚁𝙸𝙴𝙽𝙳𝚂 𝚃𝙾 𝙻𝙾𝚅𝙴𝚁𝚂
- 𝚃𝙾𝚄𝙲𝙷 𝙷𝙴𝚁 𝙰𝙽𝙳 𝙳𝙸𝙴
𝐒𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐡𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐡𝐚𝐝 𝐦𝐞 𝐬𝐰𝐨𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠:
“When the last syllable of her name left his tongue, he realized it was a name he would say for the rest of his life.”
“I would bleed every last drop of my blood onto these stones to keep her safe.”
“It wasn’t a crime to enjoy his time with her. To desire her.”
“And once more I am his, and he is mine…”
“The things I’m going to do to you would stun the nobility.”
“I am catastrophically in love with you, Siofra,” he said, drawing out each word. “I’m terrified of this love.” … “But I don’t want to be.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 30, 2022
𝐇𝐞𝐫 𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐬 𝐝𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡. 𝐇𝐢𝐬 𝐨𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐫 𝐢𝐬 𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐞.
⠀
In the Kingdom of the White Sea there is a brother and a sister held captive for their powers. The brother, Stiofen, can make things flourish and multiple. The sister, Siofra, brings a red wall of destruction. Their captors have been using them to make themselves rich for years, and locked them up in a lavish dungeon when they weren’t using them. But one day the magical siblings are pushed too far…
⠀
I have to admit… at first I could just not get interested in this book. I kept daydreaming about the last Kingdom of the White Sea book which was my favorite of this standalone series. But in the end the book was an exciting Romantasy that I would definitely recommend. The characters were well-written but also Desemir and Pesha were mysterious enough that I wanted to deep dive into their past. Siofra and Stiofen had heartbreaking stories that made the reader sympathize with them and fall in love at the same time.
⠀
This book has some serious Beauty and the Beast and the Lion King vibes…
⠀
“𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝘄𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗶𝘀 𝗼𝗳𝗳-𝗹𝗶𝗺𝗶𝘁𝘀.”
⠀
I won’t spoil the others but I think most readers will enjoy the Easter eggs.
⠀
At 79% percent I thought this book was over. What a HEA ending, it had me smiling like a dolt at the book and thinking man that was a good book. Then I realized I still had 21% to go! What the actual heck.
⠀
The last 21% percent was a story changer. It developed the characters and the storyline so much, and created such an exciting rollercoaster ending.
⠀
I particularly love the wonderful and extensive world building in this series. With every new book we get to explore this fantastic world that Sarah M. Cradit has created just a little more. It’s easy to get lost in the Kingdom of the White Sea and immerse yourself in the vastly different kingdoms.
⠀
In the Kingdom of the White Sea there is a brother and a sister held captive for their powers. The brother, Stiofen, can make things flourish and multiple. The sister, Siofra, brings a red wall of destruction. Their captors have been using them to make themselves rich for years, and locked them up in a lavish dungeon when they weren’t using them. But one day the magical siblings are pushed too far…
⠀
I have to admit… at first I could just not get interested in this book. I kept daydreaming about the last Kingdom of the White Sea book which was my favorite of this standalone series. But in the end the book was an exciting Romantasy that I would definitely recommend. The characters were well-written but also Desemir and Pesha were mysterious enough that I wanted to deep dive into their past. Siofra and Stiofen had heartbreaking stories that made the reader sympathize with them and fall in love at the same time.
⠀
This book has some serious Beauty and the Beast and the Lion King vibes…
⠀
“𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝘄𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗶𝘀 𝗼𝗳𝗳-𝗹𝗶𝗺𝗶𝘁𝘀.”
⠀
I won’t spoil the others but I think most readers will enjoy the Easter eggs.
⠀
At 79% percent I thought this book was over. What a HEA ending, it had me smiling like a dolt at the book and thinking man that was a good book. Then I realized I still had 21% to go! What the actual heck.
⠀
The last 21% percent was a story changer. It developed the characters and the storyline so much, and created such an exciting rollercoaster ending.
⠀
I particularly love the wonderful and extensive world building in this series. With every new book we get to explore this fantastic world that Sarah M. Cradit has created just a little more. It’s easy to get lost in the Kingdom of the White Sea and immerse yourself in the vastly different kingdoms.
October 12, 2022
I loved it soo much and one of the best work from Sarah's world!! Also one of my favourite books and loved the couples.
4-⭐⭐⭐⭐
3.5-🌶️🌶️🌶️
- Marriage of Convenience
- Playboy/ Powerful FMC
- Spicy
- Strangers to Allies to Friends to Lovers
- Hurt/ Comfort
It started with lust but ended with beautiful love.
Desemir and Siofra are complex characters with flaws but it was beautifully written according to their personality. It was dark world with new unique powers to Siofra and Fen. They siblings love is what I want in real life. Just perfect. Desemir and Siofra married each other for an heir and safety. Their development is slow but needed time for them to accept each and every dark flaws. The smut was sweating and swearing if you know what i mean! Overall, Perfectly flawed.
Wow, the story is one of my favourite in the series. Idk what i excepted when i started to read but it's a different experience with all Choas and dark secrets. I just love it. Lots of rollercoaster emotions. You will laugh, cry, rage, sweat, swore and only to cry again. The characters development just perfect and the world building awesome. The spice will just make you swoon.
Everyone has their own darkness but we learn them and accept them.
I'll patiently wait for The Claw and The Crowned and i read a small snippet of it and i think it's gonna be my best reads!!
4-⭐⭐⭐⭐
3.5-🌶️🌶️🌶️
- Marriage of Convenience
- Playboy/ Powerful FMC
- Spicy
- Strangers to Allies to Friends to Lovers
- Hurt/ Comfort
It started with lust but ended with beautiful love.
Desemir and Siofra are complex characters with flaws but it was beautifully written according to their personality. It was dark world with new unique powers to Siofra and Fen. They siblings love is what I want in real life. Just perfect. Desemir and Siofra married each other for an heir and safety. Their development is slow but needed time for them to accept each and every dark flaws. The smut was sweating and swearing if you know what i mean! Overall, Perfectly flawed.
Wow, the story is one of my favourite in the series. Idk what i excepted when i started to read but it's a different experience with all Choas and dark secrets. I just love it. Lots of rollercoaster emotions. You will laugh, cry, rage, sweat, swore and only to cry again. The characters development just perfect and the world building awesome. The spice will just make you swoon.
Everyone has their own darkness but we learn them and accept them.
I'll patiently wait for The Claw and The Crowned and i read a small snippet of it and i think it's gonna be my best reads!!
October 8, 2022
Rating: 5 incredible ✨!
Okay, so I literally finished this book less than two minutes ago and immediately started this review because I needed all my thoughts and feelings to still be fresh when writing it. So let me start with this. This book, this incredible book has become my favorite one of Cradit's work. THIS is the one. And I think the amount of highlights I have from this book SHOWS how much I adored it ♥️
Siofra and Desemir have stolen my heart and I just adore them both so much. Cradit was able to write two flawed characters, that are FAR for perfect, and wrote a story about healing and findings way to love one's self before allowing yourself to fully love another. The found family trope was executed perfectly in this book. The marriage of convenience trope as well. The change from strangers, to allies and somewhat friends, to LOVERS. AMAZING! The rest of the characters also hold special places in my heart, specially Fen and Pesha, who are adorable cinnamon rolls that deserve all the happiness in the world.
The angst in this book hurt so good. Tears were shed. The happiness and love in this book made me smile so big and feel so much joy. I definitely believe that this is Cradit's best work yet. With each book, she develops this magical world more and more with so much detail, it never seizes to amaze me.
If you love marriage of convenience books, this is for you! If you love books with beautifully written character development and realistic portrayals of flawed and broken characters, this is for you! If you love the "I would burn the world down for the one I love" trope, THIS IS FOR YOU!
I cannot wait for the next book in this series, but while we wait, please give this beautiful story a chance!
Okay, so I literally finished this book less than two minutes ago and immediately started this review because I needed all my thoughts and feelings to still be fresh when writing it. So let me start with this. This book, this incredible book has become my favorite one of Cradit's work. THIS is the one. And I think the amount of highlights I have from this book SHOWS how much I adored it ♥️
Siofra and Desemir have stolen my heart and I just adore them both so much. Cradit was able to write two flawed characters, that are FAR for perfect, and wrote a story about healing and findings way to love one's self before allowing yourself to fully love another. The found family trope was executed perfectly in this book. The marriage of convenience trope as well. The change from strangers, to allies and somewhat friends, to LOVERS. AMAZING! The rest of the characters also hold special places in my heart, specially Fen and Pesha, who are adorable cinnamon rolls that deserve all the happiness in the world.
The angst in this book hurt so good. Tears were shed. The happiness and love in this book made me smile so big and feel so much joy. I definitely believe that this is Cradit's best work yet. With each book, she develops this magical world more and more with so much detail, it never seizes to amaze me.
If you love marriage of convenience books, this is for you! If you love books with beautifully written character development and realistic portrayals of flawed and broken characters, this is for you! If you love the "I would burn the world down for the one I love" trope, THIS IS FOR YOU!
I cannot wait for the next book in this series, but while we wait, please give this beautiful story a chance!
Read
October 16, 2022A fantastic addition to The Book of All Things series, THE MELODY AND THE MASTER may be my favorite to date. A fair bit darker than the others in this series, and also a tad steamier, this one kept me glued to the pages from the start.
We begin the story with Siofra and her twin, Siofen, being held captive because of their magical powers. When Desimir and his brother get word of their powers and their position as prisoners, they seek to free them. Desimir’s brother has the same powers as Siofra, and they both know all too well what people will do for those powers. With their mission laid out to set them free, the long, arduous, and dangerous journey is set in motion.
With several tropes I adore, particularly found family, age gap romance, and marriage of convenience, there was so much to love within these pages. Not only was Desimir’s and Siofra’s romantic relationship delightful, the relationships that each shared with their siblings was wonderful as well. The characters were definitely the highlight of this one for me, and I adored all of them.
Bottom line — another fantastic entry into this series, and this book also marks the beginning of The Darkwood Cycle. Each of the books in this series are inter-connected, but can be read as standalones. Highly recommend both this book and the entire series.
*Many thanks to Sarah M. Credit for the digital arc.
We begin the story with Siofra and her twin, Siofen, being held captive because of their magical powers. When Desimir and his brother get word of their powers and their position as prisoners, they seek to free them. Desimir’s brother has the same powers as Siofra, and they both know all too well what people will do for those powers. With their mission laid out to set them free, the long, arduous, and dangerous journey is set in motion.
With several tropes I adore, particularly found family, age gap romance, and marriage of convenience, there was so much to love within these pages. Not only was Desimir’s and Siofra’s romantic relationship delightful, the relationships that each shared with their siblings was wonderful as well. The characters were definitely the highlight of this one for me, and I adored all of them.
Bottom line — another fantastic entry into this series, and this book also marks the beginning of The Darkwood Cycle. Each of the books in this series are inter-connected, but can be read as standalones. Highly recommend both this book and the entire series.
*Many thanks to Sarah M. Credit for the digital arc.
October 18, 2022
I had to digest this read a bit longer than normal and I have come to the conclusion that Sarah is a magician. ✨
I think my favourite book of the series remains The Altruist & the Assassin so far (it is hard to choose lol I love them all for different reasons) but that isn't to say that this book wasn't anything short of amazing (but perhaps not in the way you are used to lol). We always talk about how we love imperfect characters despite their flaws. In this case, both MCs are battling demons and they are both trying to heal. It's emotional, it's raw and, I'll admit, sometimes it was hard to love them. They struggled, even just to communicate what they want or need. But then, somewhere along the way, my feelings shifted and parts became hard to read because I felt their pain so deeply... It is a beautiful story of two people who chose each other and their love with eyes open and despite the cracks, despite things being rough and hard. I ached for these two, especially when the only thing standing in their way was them. The fact I felt the ups and downs so strongly just comes to show how well these characters were brought to life. SARAH IS MAGIC and she just keeps proving it over and over. I will DIE on this hill. 😂❤ I will also need a new bookshelf to fit all the books from this series once she's done writing them 🙃. BUT it's a sacrifice I'm willing to make! 😂🥰
CW: Abduction/confinement, child abuse, deception, physical abuse/torture, self-loathing, death, murder.
None of the abuse occurs between the MCs, but their romance is not traditional.
Some fave quotes:
''I once believed I was not worthy of love. That I wasn't built to give or receive such a blessing. Happiness was for those who were not abominations. When in truth, I had just not yet met the one I was meant to love, and who was meant to love me.''
“What do you want me to say, Siofra?” His voice cracked. Tears fell from his reddened eyes, mixing with rain. “That you coming into my life has been a light at the end of a very dark road for me? That even to... even to look at you brightens my day? That the very idea of sending you more than a few feet away from me is twisting me up inside?” He thrust both of his hands at his belly. “That I am catastrophically in love with you, and this truth threatens to eclipse any and all others?”
I think my favourite book of the series remains The Altruist & the Assassin so far (it is hard to choose lol I love them all for different reasons) but that isn't to say that this book wasn't anything short of amazing (but perhaps not in the way you are used to lol). We always talk about how we love imperfect characters despite their flaws. In this case, both MCs are battling demons and they are both trying to heal. It's emotional, it's raw and, I'll admit, sometimes it was hard to love them. They struggled, even just to communicate what they want or need. But then, somewhere along the way, my feelings shifted and parts became hard to read because I felt their pain so deeply... It is a beautiful story of two people who chose each other and their love with eyes open and despite the cracks, despite things being rough and hard. I ached for these two, especially when the only thing standing in their way was them. The fact I felt the ups and downs so strongly just comes to show how well these characters were brought to life. SARAH IS MAGIC and she just keeps proving it over and over. I will DIE on this hill. 😂❤ I will also need a new bookshelf to fit all the books from this series once she's done writing them 🙃. BUT it's a sacrifice I'm willing to make! 😂🥰
CW: Abduction/confinement, child abuse, deception, physical abuse/torture, self-loathing, death, murder.
None of the abuse occurs between the MCs, but their romance is not traditional.
Some fave quotes:
''I once believed I was not worthy of love. That I wasn't built to give or receive such a blessing. Happiness was for those who were not abominations. When in truth, I had just not yet met the one I was meant to love, and who was meant to love me.''
“What do you want me to say, Siofra?” His voice cracked. Tears fell from his reddened eyes, mixing with rain. “That you coming into my life has been a light at the end of a very dark road for me? That even to... even to look at you brightens my day? That the very idea of sending you more than a few feet away from me is twisting me up inside?” He thrust both of his hands at his belly. “That I am catastrophically in love with you, and this truth threatens to eclipse any and all others?”
October 2, 2022
The Melody and the Master is the next standalone installment in The Book of All Things. It's a beautiful and dark love story between Siofra and Desemir.
"Let go. Whatever haunts you, it can't find you here."
Siofra has a dark power, one that she's afraid of. With help from her brother, Stiofen, she has been able to control it. When Siofra and her brother are imprisoned for murder, a mysterious man comes to their rescue to take them to Shadowfen Hall.
"It's a terrible idea and the last thing you need right now."
Desemir is a man isolated in Shadowfen Hall. With help from his brother, Pesha, Des has kept his rivals at bay. But to officially secure his position, he needs a wife and heir. Thus, he offers Siofra a marriage of convenience. Siofra seeing the chance to secure safety for her brother and herself, accepts.
I really liked this! I also loved the relationship between Pesha and Stiofen, the lead's brothers. These two were some of my favorite characters in the novel! Honestly, Pesha stole the show being Des's voice of reason.
TMATM also tied in some elements of Beauty and the Beast & Hades and Persephone & Jane Eyre. I really liked how these elements tied into the story! Especially the main Jane Eyre one!
All in all, this was a great addition to Sarah M. Cradit's series! Many thanks to the author for the eARC!
"Let go. Whatever haunts you, it can't find you here."
Siofra has a dark power, one that she's afraid of. With help from her brother, Stiofen, she has been able to control it. When Siofra and her brother are imprisoned for murder, a mysterious man comes to their rescue to take them to Shadowfen Hall.
"It's a terrible idea and the last thing you need right now."
Desemir is a man isolated in Shadowfen Hall. With help from his brother, Pesha, Des has kept his rivals at bay. But to officially secure his position, he needs a wife and heir. Thus, he offers Siofra a marriage of convenience. Siofra seeing the chance to secure safety for her brother and herself, accepts.
I really liked this! I also loved the relationship between Pesha and Stiofen, the lead's brothers. These two were some of my favorite characters in the novel! Honestly, Pesha stole the show being Des's voice of reason.
TMATM also tied in some elements of Beauty and the Beast & Hades and Persephone & Jane Eyre. I really liked how these elements tied into the story! Especially the main Jane Eyre one!
All in all, this was a great addition to Sarah M. Cradit's series! Many thanks to the author for the eARC!
October 15, 2022
This was an absolute masterpiece! Found family is such a underrated trope I believe and this story executed it perfectly. Sio and Des are ::chefs kiss:: they might be my favorite couple in this whole series. The world building was amazing .. this world Sarah has created is amazing. I can’t wait until more in this series.
October 31, 2022
I’d be lying If I say I didn’t wait for months to read this book. I got hooked reading the first chapter that came with the last book of The Book of All Things. And I have to say that so far this one is my favourite!
The story hooks you from the very beginning. The main characters make you want to keep going. Their backstories are deep and represented on how they showed themselves to the world. The secondary characters are incredible! I love how the brothers protected their family and where present trough the story. The dynamics among all characters is incredibly well done.
Of course the world building once again was incredible. It’s always nice to know more about the kingdom. I especially loved how the different characters showed unique relations with their powers and animal companions. It made it easier to understand them and love them.
This book also showed more strong scenes than others. Including a different relationships and dynamics. As characters forced to grow up early it was interesting to see how each faced their traumas and life experiences. The characters showed more willingness when it come to spill blood to fulfil their objectives. Once again a great book by Sarah M Cradit!
The story hooks you from the very beginning. The main characters make you want to keep going. Their backstories are deep and represented on how they showed themselves to the world. The secondary characters are incredible! I love how the brothers protected their family and where present trough the story. The dynamics among all characters is incredibly well done.
Of course the world building once again was incredible. It’s always nice to know more about the kingdom. I especially loved how the different characters showed unique relations with their powers and animal companions. It made it easier to understand them and love them.
This book also showed more strong scenes than others. Including a different relationships and dynamics. As characters forced to grow up early it was interesting to see how each faced their traumas and life experiences. The characters showed more willingness when it come to spill blood to fulfil their objectives. Once again a great book by Sarah M Cradit!
October 12, 2022
The Melody and The Master lures you in with its sweet whispers and daring promises. This darkly alluring tale will leave you obsessed and hungry for more!
October 2, 2022
I think this story is my favorite so far in the Book of All Things series. It was a rollercoaster ride of emotions. Just when you thought it was going to be smooth, another problem is thrown in to mess all that happiness up. Liked all the characters. They are complicated, have issues but are all likeable. The story covers a lot but is never slow or boring! You will keep turning those pages till the end and then want more!
September 26, 2022
Every time I pick up one of Sarah's books, I know I'm in for a good ride! Every time I think I've read her best work yet and then I pick up the next book and fall in love with a whole new set of characters. And this book is no exception! It's definitely my new favorite! Desemir and Siofra are freaking amazing together! And Siofra's journey is a tough one. I can't imagine being in her shoes and yet she's such a badass character! I'm a little obsessed with this story right now... Not gonna lie. Can't wait to have this stunner on my shelf with my other pretties!
July 14, 2023
This is book 4 in The Book of all Things Series. Although this is #4, it is a standalone and can be read out of order. Each book in this series will start another adventure into each realm. It will follow a different couple and will have an HEA.
WOW! Sarah Cradit has done it again and stolen my heart....each book in this incredible world gets better and better. This is a different kind of book. It is definitely not an easy to read fairy tale and is a different kind of romance. I loved the complexity of each character that you meet and Siofra is absolutely my favorite. She is born into a very rough life and taken prisoner at a very young age. Both Siofra and her brother are held captive and used for their magic. They know nothing else but betrayal and misery. When tragedy strikes and they are rescued by Desemir and his brother Pesha, they are brought to the kingdom and finally shown compassion. But can they trust that or are they trading one prison for another?
This story is now my favorite in this series.....Such a different way to tell a love story and that is why I loved it so much. There is love and heartbreak, tenderness and volatility, betrayal and forgiveness. My heart went through every emotion while reading and I never wanted the book to end. Desemir broke something in me. His story is such a sorrowful and tragic life to live. The way Sarah portrayed his loathing and self and self doubt was gripping and I couldn't help but feel for him. Do yourself a favor and pick up this series. The complexity of this world that Sarah has built has me wanting and needing more. I cannot wait to see what happens with the rest of the characters that were introduced in this story. Their HEA's will be wonderful to read, even though I know Sarah will put me through the wringer to get there. This book gets 5 amazing stars.
WOW! Sarah Cradit has done it again and stolen my heart....each book in this incredible world gets better and better. This is a different kind of book. It is definitely not an easy to read fairy tale and is a different kind of romance. I loved the complexity of each character that you meet and Siofra is absolutely my favorite. She is born into a very rough life and taken prisoner at a very young age. Both Siofra and her brother are held captive and used for their magic. They know nothing else but betrayal and misery. When tragedy strikes and they are rescued by Desemir and his brother Pesha, they are brought to the kingdom and finally shown compassion. But can they trust that or are they trading one prison for another?
This story is now my favorite in this series.....Such a different way to tell a love story and that is why I loved it so much. There is love and heartbreak, tenderness and volatility, betrayal and forgiveness. My heart went through every emotion while reading and I never wanted the book to end. Desemir broke something in me. His story is such a sorrowful and tragic life to live. The way Sarah portrayed his loathing and self and self doubt was gripping and I couldn't help but feel for him. Do yourself a favor and pick up this series. The complexity of this world that Sarah has built has me wanting and needing more. I cannot wait to see what happens with the rest of the characters that were introduced in this story. Their HEA's will be wonderful to read, even though I know Sarah will put me through the wringer to get there. This book gets 5 amazing stars.
September 16, 2022
4.5⭐️
I really enjoyed this book! I’ve been in a total reading slump as of late, but this book definitely helped with that! Oreo
This book has a bit of the beauty and the beast vibe that we all know and love but with a marriage of convenience thrown in and a nice amount of spice!
Siofra and her twin brother, Stiofen, spent their entire life practically as prisoners until being saved from execution by a strange man they’ve never met or heard of.
Desemir has the morally grey love interest going for him, that is for sure! This poor man, he was so broken, I just wanted to reach into the book and give him a hug myself. But he was just so well written and was so iccxxccswoon worthy even through his faults.
Sarah certainly weaved together a beautiful story here that I don’t think I’ll forget about any time soon. This story had a lot of layers to it, not just the simple win-over-each-other romance plot.
I will definitely be reading more from this author.
Thank you to the author for my ARC of this book.
I really enjoyed this book! I’ve been in a total reading slump as of late, but this book definitely helped with that! Oreo
This book has a bit of the beauty and the beast vibe that we all know and love but with a marriage of convenience thrown in and a nice amount of spice!
Siofra and her twin brother, Stiofen, spent their entire life practically as prisoners until being saved from execution by a strange man they’ve never met or heard of.
Desemir has the morally grey love interest going for him, that is for sure! This poor man, he was so broken, I just wanted to reach into the book and give him a hug myself. But he was just so well written and was so iccxxccswoon worthy even through his faults.
Sarah certainly weaved together a beautiful story here that I don’t think I’ll forget about any time soon. This story had a lot of layers to it, not just the simple win-over-each-other romance plot.
I will definitely be reading more from this author.
Thank you to the author for my ARC of this book.
Read
May 22, 2023DNF @ 15% - this just isn’t for me
September 22, 2022
Thanks to the author for an ARC of this story. It should come as no surprise that it’s a five-star book. Honestly, I can’t imagine Sarah Cradit writing anything less than five stars. Her books are not quick reads, containing way too many elements and themes to be packaged simply. They’re not what I would call cotton candy reading, which is fun but does little to sustain the intellect of the reader long-term. Her stories are the sustenance readers crave. In other words, when you pick up one of her books, prepare to engage your imagination as you’re taken on a journey along with the characters.
This one is about Siofra, an outcast Medvedev, and Desimir, Baron of Shadowfen. Siofra and her twin brother Siofen are kept prisoners because of their magical powers. When their existence becomes known to Desimir, he sends his half-brother Pesha, also Medvedev, to retrieve them and offer safety. The Medvedev is a secretive and isolated society described much like the fae, and they are hunted within the world of humans. It’s not safe for ‘rogue’ Medvedev to reside in the world of men. Unfortunately, those who have been orphaned by those cast out of the Medvedev face the struggle of trying to fit into a world where they don’t belong.
Siofra has suffered greatly for her magical powers and has been trained to believe she’s a monster. Desimir carries the memories of his abusive and violent father and fears becoming him. Because he never stood up to him as a child/young adult, he blames himself for allowing his father to do some terrible things. Both characters need to learn to let go of the past and grasp a potential future of happiness together. Although their brothers have told both of them many times to forgive themselves for whatever happened in the past, it’s not that simple. Si remembers little of her childhood, but is convinced she caused her parents’ deaths. Her internal dialogue is often the voice of her mother denigrating her. Meanwhile, Desi clings to his guilt and sorrow, refusing to allow himself to be loved. Their individual and collective journeys to get to where they need to be are painful and emotional, but ultimately, hopeful and joyous. The emotions of the characters—even the peripheral ones—are conveyed clearly and compassionately so the reader can feel all of it and empathize. But there are no cheap ploys to trigger tears. Every bit of emotion is genuine and well-earned. Although there are a few villains in the story, the real conflict is internal for both Siofra and Desimir.
Although the story focuses on Siofra (Si) and Desimir (Desi), Siofen (Fen) and Pesha play important roles. Both are the emotional support for their siblings and have dedicated their lives to protecting their family members. Their love supersedes all transgressions and drives them to be truth-tellers and shoulders to cry on. Interestingly, Fen and Pesha find themselves drawn to each other in much the same way Si and Desi are. Like recognizes like. One of the plot points that I found especially impactful is when Si and Desi are both injured, and due to their injuries, Pesha needs to heal Si while Fen needs to heal Desi. Fen doesn’t like Desi and wishes Si hadn’t agreed to marry him. We witness the inner turmoil Fen experiences because he doesn’t really want to help Desi, but he knows that he must if he intends to do what will make his sister happy. And a part of him cares about Pesha too much to allow Desi to die. And although he never really comes to love Desi in any way, he respects the way Desi loves Si.
The plotline is perfection, with a set-up that clearly paints Desimir and Siofra and their current situations, their meeting, several moments of crisis in which characters are called upon to reach within themselves and fight back, then come together, and the resurgence of a foreshadowed difficulty that will need to be resolved before the characters can, at last, find happiness. This may sound technical, and it is. The beauty of Cradit’s writing is that she takes the lessons of story structure, implements them, and turns them into something epic and engaging. The reader comes away saying, “Wow!” There’s definitely a strong Jane Eyre/Bluebeard feel to this story, but it’s only a part of the plot. With its gothic elements, it’s more of a nod to Charlotte Bronte than a retelling of her story. It’s another outstanding book in this series and I can’t wait to read more.
This one is about Siofra, an outcast Medvedev, and Desimir, Baron of Shadowfen. Siofra and her twin brother Siofen are kept prisoners because of their magical powers. When their existence becomes known to Desimir, he sends his half-brother Pesha, also Medvedev, to retrieve them and offer safety. The Medvedev is a secretive and isolated society described much like the fae, and they are hunted within the world of humans. It’s not safe for ‘rogue’ Medvedev to reside in the world of men. Unfortunately, those who have been orphaned by those cast out of the Medvedev face the struggle of trying to fit into a world where they don’t belong.
Siofra has suffered greatly for her magical powers and has been trained to believe she’s a monster. Desimir carries the memories of his abusive and violent father and fears becoming him. Because he never stood up to him as a child/young adult, he blames himself for allowing his father to do some terrible things. Both characters need to learn to let go of the past and grasp a potential future of happiness together. Although their brothers have told both of them many times to forgive themselves for whatever happened in the past, it’s not that simple. Si remembers little of her childhood, but is convinced she caused her parents’ deaths. Her internal dialogue is often the voice of her mother denigrating her. Meanwhile, Desi clings to his guilt and sorrow, refusing to allow himself to be loved. Their individual and collective journeys to get to where they need to be are painful and emotional, but ultimately, hopeful and joyous. The emotions of the characters—even the peripheral ones—are conveyed clearly and compassionately so the reader can feel all of it and empathize. But there are no cheap ploys to trigger tears. Every bit of emotion is genuine and well-earned. Although there are a few villains in the story, the real conflict is internal for both Siofra and Desimir.
Although the story focuses on Siofra (Si) and Desimir (Desi), Siofen (Fen) and Pesha play important roles. Both are the emotional support for their siblings and have dedicated their lives to protecting their family members. Their love supersedes all transgressions and drives them to be truth-tellers and shoulders to cry on. Interestingly, Fen and Pesha find themselves drawn to each other in much the same way Si and Desi are. Like recognizes like. One of the plot points that I found especially impactful is when Si and Desi are both injured, and due to their injuries, Pesha needs to heal Si while Fen needs to heal Desi. Fen doesn’t like Desi and wishes Si hadn’t agreed to marry him. We witness the inner turmoil Fen experiences because he doesn’t really want to help Desi, but he knows that he must if he intends to do what will make his sister happy. And a part of him cares about Pesha too much to allow Desi to die. And although he never really comes to love Desi in any way, he respects the way Desi loves Si.
The plotline is perfection, with a set-up that clearly paints Desimir and Siofra and their current situations, their meeting, several moments of crisis in which characters are called upon to reach within themselves and fight back, then come together, and the resurgence of a foreshadowed difficulty that will need to be resolved before the characters can, at last, find happiness. This may sound technical, and it is. The beauty of Cradit’s writing is that she takes the lessons of story structure, implements them, and turns them into something epic and engaging. The reader comes away saying, “Wow!” There’s definitely a strong Jane Eyre/Bluebeard feel to this story, but it’s only a part of the plot. With its gothic elements, it’s more of a nod to Charlotte Bronte than a retelling of her story. It’s another outstanding book in this series and I can’t wait to read more.
October 16, 2022
Meanwhile, I would like to enjoy this——-as much as I love the trope & everything, I, indeed, failed to succeed. My full interest only held up to a few chapters in, before I was forced to skimmed the rest, here & there. (I know, I’m a picky reader, it’s almost as if I didn’t give the story a chance to bloom, suck me in wholly, but in my attempt to skim, I was yet to give it a fair chance.)
By skimming, I was looking forward to some thrill, excitement or anything to pulled me right in, but there wasn’t much to hang on. Pace, dialogues, romance were un-intriguing. Heroine & her twin started out almost too whiney, later becoming rather bland to boot. I mean, sure, why not? Anyone would be in their horrible positions, but why did everything felt so forced? Their siblings bond was like unnatural. Furthermore, that scene when she killed Gawain & Friend, or whoever, was so unmemorable. I was prepared & expected to feel by the lot, the elements of her deadly power. I also wanted to feel her emotions, something more like: overwhelmed, frustration, pain, fear, guilt, POWERFUL, or whatever, but I felt a pinch to nada. For the hype, as we were first told of her cool, uncontrollabe power, why was the execution so uncoolly cliche? It went down a tad bit too mechanical: she felt red, next there was something about a bright light and some sounds? Now, woods became splinters & fleshes were on fire, aka Gawien & Friend that was. Don’t forget to add that they ‘scream’ at their time of death. And, just like that, we have the most deadly two seconds. It was supposedly quick. Perhaps, I have no vivid imagination or whatever, but I felt cheated of a good, petrifying moment. I was like, UM…THAT’S REALLY IT? Ahhhh, gee, I also think the word shriek would be a better fit for the melting fellas as it relays more emotions then just plain ‘scream.” Yelp in pain, maybe? Again, it felt forced & unsatisfactory. From my gist, even the romance & chemistry between MC fell a bit too stale for my own’s personal taste. Perhaps, it’s true, when something falls short of your likening, then it just won’t ever be your cup of tea.
In conclusion, what could have been a book of anticipated high suspense or bone-chilling seconds, utterly left me dried off any emotion or sensations, what’s so ever. It was just missing the “it” factor for me. I wanted angst, I wanted darkness. I wanted good & thrilling goosebumps for all the 4-5 stars ratings… but bottom line, I was misled. Not impressed of this work. Maybe, it has to with the fact that this was a new author for me, too. But here goes ⭐️.5
By skimming, I was looking forward to some thrill, excitement or anything to pulled me right in, but there wasn’t much to hang on. Pace, dialogues, romance were un-intriguing. Heroine & her twin started out almost too whiney, later becoming rather bland to boot. I mean, sure, why not? Anyone would be in their horrible positions, but why did everything felt so forced? Their siblings bond was like unnatural. Furthermore, that scene when she killed Gawain & Friend, or whoever, was so unmemorable. I was prepared & expected to feel by the lot, the elements of her deadly power. I also wanted to feel her emotions, something more like: overwhelmed, frustration, pain, fear, guilt, POWERFUL, or whatever, but I felt a pinch to nada. For the hype, as we were first told of her cool, uncontrollabe power, why was the execution so uncoolly cliche? It went down a tad bit too mechanical: she felt red, next there was something about a bright light and some sounds? Now, woods became splinters & fleshes were on fire, aka Gawien & Friend that was. Don’t forget to add that they ‘scream’ at their time of death. And, just like that, we have the most deadly two seconds. It was supposedly quick. Perhaps, I have no vivid imagination or whatever, but I felt cheated of a good, petrifying moment. I was like, UM…THAT’S REALLY IT? Ahhhh, gee, I also think the word shriek would be a better fit for the melting fellas as it relays more emotions then just plain ‘scream.” Yelp in pain, maybe? Again, it felt forced & unsatisfactory. From my gist, even the romance & chemistry between MC fell a bit too stale for my own’s personal taste. Perhaps, it’s true, when something falls short of your likening, then it just won’t ever be your cup of tea.
In conclusion, what could have been a book of anticipated high suspense or bone-chilling seconds, utterly left me dried off any emotion or sensations, what’s so ever. It was just missing the “it” factor for me. I wanted angst, I wanted darkness. I wanted good & thrilling goosebumps for all the 4-5 stars ratings… but bottom line, I was misled. Not impressed of this work. Maybe, it has to with the fact that this was a new author for me, too. But here goes ⭐️.5
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 4, 2022
Siofra and Stiofen are orphans, twins, and for what it's worth, prisoners to a wealthy family in exchange for protection.
Desemir and Pesha are half brothers, their father, Baron of the Darkwood Run, was a monster, and to keep their world and people safe, Pesha's sole purpose is to protect his brother.
When Siofra can't control her magic, Desimer catches wind of the twins predicament and sends Pesha to gather them up. What no one foresaw was how these orphaned twins would change everything for the Hall.
Desemir opened his mouth to greet her, but his words died when her violet eyes snared his. He hadn't seen the pulse of Medvedev power running just underneath her smooth, pale flesh before. Within her, Siofra held the power to kill him - a power she might yet use.
I loved reading about characters who had to learn to accept the truth of their pasts and not just the version of truth they told themselves. The heartbreak and angst of growing pains when it comes to the heart is always a good exercise in empathy, communication, and acceptance of others.
In real life, good relationships are full of growth, of working on personal issues, communication, and truth. I loved that this filtered into the relationships between these characters, it made it so much easier to get swept up in the moments the characters exist in.
Desemire dropped his hand away from her back. He didn't release her wrist. "The things I'm going to do to you would stun the nobility." He turned and marched away, dragging her behind him, his willing property, his eager claim.
Siofra ran behind him with a smirk she couldn't hide and the eyes of all of Darkwood Run on her.
Desemir and Pesha are half brothers, their father, Baron of the Darkwood Run, was a monster, and to keep their world and people safe, Pesha's sole purpose is to protect his brother.
When Siofra can't control her magic, Desimer catches wind of the twins predicament and sends Pesha to gather them up. What no one foresaw was how these orphaned twins would change everything for the Hall.
Desemir opened his mouth to greet her, but his words died when her violet eyes snared his. He hadn't seen the pulse of Medvedev power running just underneath her smooth, pale flesh before. Within her, Siofra held the power to kill him - a power she might yet use.
I loved reading about characters who had to learn to accept the truth of their pasts and not just the version of truth they told themselves. The heartbreak and angst of growing pains when it comes to the heart is always a good exercise in empathy, communication, and acceptance of others.
In real life, good relationships are full of growth, of working on personal issues, communication, and truth. I loved that this filtered into the relationships between these characters, it made it so much easier to get swept up in the moments the characters exist in.
Desemire dropped his hand away from her back. He didn't release her wrist. "The things I'm going to do to you would stun the nobility." He turned and marched away, dragging her behind him, his willing property, his eager claim.
Siofra ran behind him with a smirk she couldn't hide and the eyes of all of Darkwood Run on her.
September 18, 2022
Just wow.
Another fabulous story in this series...really.
Des has a closet full of skeletons from his past that's bigger than most houses and he feels guilt for each and every one.
Siofra has always been put in a position with no power because her magic is so destructive - BUT, she has never had the chance to have someone teach her to harness it.
And then we have their brothers. *squeals with absolute delight* Fen has lived his life in fear, at times terror, that his twin will be taken away. He LIVES to protect her, so when she has a chance to provide HIM with a life of normalcy, everything is turned upside down (not in a chauvinistic kind of way - you just need to read it). And then my beautiful spaz, Pesha. He loves his brother and has dedicated his life to him without living his own. And Pesha isn't one to mince words - he sees Des and all of his faults and through this is just this lovable, I know I already said it, spaz.
Back to our main two characters...really, the complexities of their relationship with the marriage of convenience, the absolute lack of true clarity going into it, the natural ability for both of them to not be fully open with others leads to a series of heart-wrenching and glorious roller coasters. The attraction between the two of them is off the charts and the spice matches the "master" part of the title beautifully!
The characters have amazing growth throughout this story with obstacles thrown in their way, and they both have trauma to work through, and forgiveness to bestow on themselves. They felt so real and I absolutely loved it.
(I CANNOT WAIT FOR THE NEXT BOOK IN THIS CYCLE!!!!!!)
Highly recommend.
Another fabulous story in this series...really.
Des has a closet full of skeletons from his past that's bigger than most houses and he feels guilt for each and every one.
Siofra has always been put in a position with no power because her magic is so destructive - BUT, she has never had the chance to have someone teach her to harness it.
And then we have their brothers. *squeals with absolute delight* Fen has lived his life in fear, at times terror, that his twin will be taken away. He LIVES to protect her, so when she has a chance to provide HIM with a life of normalcy, everything is turned upside down (not in a chauvinistic kind of way - you just need to read it). And then my beautiful spaz, Pesha. He loves his brother and has dedicated his life to him without living his own. And Pesha isn't one to mince words - he sees Des and all of his faults and through this is just this lovable, I know I already said it, spaz.
Back to our main two characters...really, the complexities of their relationship with the marriage of convenience, the absolute lack of true clarity going into it, the natural ability for both of them to not be fully open with others leads to a series of heart-wrenching and glorious roller coasters. The attraction between the two of them is off the charts and the spice matches the "master" part of the title beautifully!
The characters have amazing growth throughout this story with obstacles thrown in their way, and they both have trauma to work through, and forgiveness to bestow on themselves. They felt so real and I absolutely loved it.
(I CANNOT WAIT FOR THE NEXT BOOK IN THIS CYCLE!!!!!!)
Highly recommend.
September 22, 2022
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review, but again, it's going to be bought when I can because I love this series.
Sarah is incredibly gifted in her craft. She is able to blend her building of her world and characters pretty seemlessly into her storytelling and it never ceases to amaze me. The more I read, the more I fall in love with her writing and her world that she had made. The White Kingdom in complex, there is such a depth to it and with each of these standalone stories she put out, the more ready I am to dive into the brick that is the original trilogy. She is quickly becoming one of my favorite fantasy authors for this reason.
The Melody and the Master is the first book in the Darkwood Cycle, seeing the progression from one cycle to the next has been interesting. This one is a fair amount darker than the last. Our main characters have been through a lot and continue to go through a lot during the course of the book. Though nothing terrible happens between the two love interests, which is always a plus, things get a little rough.
Siofra is a very interesting character. I enjoyed the parts from her point of view probably the most. There was so much going on for her that her perspective on things I found to be the most fun to read. Desemir, which I just love to say his name, was interesting in another way. Such complicated characters and relationships. I loved every moment of this book.
The next book can't come fast enough.
Sarah is incredibly gifted in her craft. She is able to blend her building of her world and characters pretty seemlessly into her storytelling and it never ceases to amaze me. The more I read, the more I fall in love with her writing and her world that she had made. The White Kingdom in complex, there is such a depth to it and with each of these standalone stories she put out, the more ready I am to dive into the brick that is the original trilogy. She is quickly becoming one of my favorite fantasy authors for this reason.
The Melody and the Master is the first book in the Darkwood Cycle, seeing the progression from one cycle to the next has been interesting. This one is a fair amount darker than the last. Our main characters have been through a lot and continue to go through a lot during the course of the book. Though nothing terrible happens between the two love interests, which is always a plus, things get a little rough.
Siofra is a very interesting character. I enjoyed the parts from her point of view probably the most. There was so much going on for her that her perspective on things I found to be the most fun to read. Desemir, which I just love to say his name, was interesting in another way. Such complicated characters and relationships. I loved every moment of this book.
The next book can't come fast enough.
October 4, 2022
REVIEW: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
Synopsis: “Siofra has lived her entire life in isolation, terrified of her unrestrained dark magic. Then the unthinkable happens, and she and her brother are imprisoned for murder.
Before the law can deliver their punishment, the siblings are rescued by a mysterious benefactor, whisked away to a glamorous manor in the far north, where everyone treats them like a prince and princess.
Shadowfen Hall, and the surrounding forest, keeps a wall between Desemir and his rivals. His lack of heir leaves him vulnerable, but to marry within his peerage would ignite the very coup he needs to avoid.
Siofra and Desemir’s needs conveniently intersect. She needs protection for herself and her brother. He needs a wife and children to secure his legacy.
If it all seems too good to be true, it is.
Because everyone knows darkness can only be soothed, not contained.”
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
This was such a realistic portrayal of two broken, damaged people searching for a connection with each other. Even when I wanted to yell at the characters for their choices, I could see why they did the things they did. There was a very prominent Beauty and the Beast influence in this story, which I loved. I also loved the bonds between both sets of siblings present in the novel.
Overall, this is a (steamy!) story of love, hope, and healing, and seeing the culmination of these characters’ journeys was so satisfying to see. (And the book itself is gorgeous!)
Synopsis: “Siofra has lived her entire life in isolation, terrified of her unrestrained dark magic. Then the unthinkable happens, and she and her brother are imprisoned for murder.
Before the law can deliver their punishment, the siblings are rescued by a mysterious benefactor, whisked away to a glamorous manor in the far north, where everyone treats them like a prince and princess.
Shadowfen Hall, and the surrounding forest, keeps a wall between Desemir and his rivals. His lack of heir leaves him vulnerable, but to marry within his peerage would ignite the very coup he needs to avoid.
Siofra and Desemir’s needs conveniently intersect. She needs protection for herself and her brother. He needs a wife and children to secure his legacy.
If it all seems too good to be true, it is.
Because everyone knows darkness can only be soothed, not contained.”
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
This was such a realistic portrayal of two broken, damaged people searching for a connection with each other. Even when I wanted to yell at the characters for their choices, I could see why they did the things they did. There was a very prominent Beauty and the Beast influence in this story, which I loved. I also loved the bonds between both sets of siblings present in the novel.
Overall, this is a (steamy!) story of love, hope, and healing, and seeing the culmination of these characters’ journeys was so satisfying to see. (And the book itself is gorgeous!)
October 30, 2022
Thank you so much to the author for sending me an early copy for review! This book was such a different vibe from Altruist and the Assassin but dang it was good! I wouldn't call it fast-paced, I'd definitely call it more character-focused and more character-study, because boy did I get to know the characters and their backstories! I love how flawed the characters are, how they develop, but they compromise and accept and how Siofra actually confronts Des on a number of occassions. And their FLIRTING AND BANTER oh wooow so spicy I needed to fan myself. The quotes in this book are phenomenal.
'Siofra slid a hand down to touch herself, but he shoved it back up the bed. "You get pleasure when i give you pleasure," he said.
"Not much of a punishment," she challenged. "I'm beginning to think you're all roar, no bite."
"You want a lion? I'll give you a lion."'
' *scene is a ballroom dance* "I could fuck you right here, in front of everyone."
"What's stopping you?"
"You think I won't?
"If you were the man you claim to be, you'd already be fucking me."
Desemir dropped his hand away from her back. He didn't release her wrist. "The things I'm going to do to you would stun the nobility."'
LIKE YES PLEASE GIVE ME MORE OF THIS
'Siofra slid a hand down to touch herself, but he shoved it back up the bed. "You get pleasure when i give you pleasure," he said.
"Not much of a punishment," she challenged. "I'm beginning to think you're all roar, no bite."
"You want a lion? I'll give you a lion."'
' *scene is a ballroom dance* "I could fuck you right here, in front of everyone."
"What's stopping you?"
"You think I won't?
"If you were the man you claim to be, you'd already be fucking me."
Desemir dropped his hand away from her back. He didn't release her wrist. "The things I'm going to do to you would stun the nobility."'
LIKE YES PLEASE GIVE ME MORE OF THIS
September 25, 2022
◦ I've received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review ◦
⮞ 𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐬𝐲𝐧𝐨𝐩𝐬𝐢𝐬 ⮜
The story follows Siofra and her brother Siofren trying to escape from a life of imprisonment due to the magic they possess and what they can do for and against people.
⮞ 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬 ⮜
Siofra at the beginning was pretty mellow, she was afraid of almost everything around her, she wouldn't say much, and she would let others take decisions for her. Along the way you see her growth which was so drastic, she grew from page one to the end of the book so, so much and I loved when she showed everyone how powerful and strong she can be and that she didn't need anyone's protection.
Siofren was definitely one of those characters that you either love or hate, I loved and hated him at the same time - mostly because of his protective ways towards Siofra and the fact he would lie than tell the truth to her and take her out of her world that she created and escaped whenever she felt. However, I also understood him towards the end when more things fell in the right place.
Desemir was harder to decipher and harder to understand. It took me a long while to actually understand him and like him mostly because he was so mysterious and so set in his ways and wouldn't let anyone in, however, with Siofra's help he became a new person.
⮞ 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝-𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 ⮜
The world-building was definitely something else. I loved Siofra's powers, she was terrifying while Fen's powers were really cool - being able to grow stuff with your bare hands was mind-blowing, but destroying everything in your path with a scream was AMAZING! I'm all for woman power! Their world, in general, felt split between the rich people and the poor people, magic was a forbidden matter, and only if it was approved they could use it, otherwise, things would go very bad. Descriptions of their world besides the forest we didn't get many, I loved the place where Desemir was living, that forest was definitely out of a fairytale.
⮞ 𝐌𝐚𝐠𝐢𝐜 𝐒𝐲𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐦 ⮜
Siofra's powers were definitely amazing and very powerful and also scary, she was destructive that's for sure. The book was mostly focusing on Siofra's powers and the struggle of containing them when they weren't needed than on Fen's powers - which I'd loved to know more about, but it seems we will get a story only about Fen which I'm definitely excited about. I wanted to know more about Siofra's powers if she was getting them from her parents or the powers are random from the gods.
⮞ 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐈 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞𝐝 ⮜
The relationship between Siofra and Fen - they were so lovely as brother and sister and I loved their connection deeply. The relationship with their familiars was definitely unique and beautiful, I loved the way they were communicating it was almost like they could feel and understand each other to an emotional level, which most likely that's how they were even communicating.
Pesha and Fen were definitely my fave couple, they were kinda oblivious to their relationship that was growing but they were so sweet together and Pesha would turn into this cinnamon roll type of boyfriend whenever he was around Fen - I'm definitely excited to read a story only about these two because they deserve their own feature.
There were lots of funny moments that made me giggle - the breakfast scene was my fave, I could feel their tension and also how cringe everyone was, I couldn't not laugh at that scene it was just pure chaos.
There are ups and down's in this book, there is also some heartache going on too but the happy ending makes it up for it. I devoured the fact Desemir and Siofra were discovering each other slowly peal by peal and even if they had plenty of issues they somehow worked through them and stick together. There are also some triggers so make sure to read the triggers before diving into the book - I'm not a person who gets easily triggered so for me it wasn't an issue.
⮞ 𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞 ⮜
The spice I would say that is definitely around 3 flames and a half, is not overly, overly detailed but there are enough spicy scenes that would make you blush. There are also some scenes more on the BDSM side I'd say but everything that happens between Siofra and Desemir is consensual and all things happen in a safe environment.
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⮞ 𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐬𝐲𝐧𝐨𝐩𝐬𝐢𝐬 ⮜
The story follows Siofra and her brother Siofren trying to escape from a life of imprisonment due to the magic they possess and what they can do for and against people.
⮞ 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬 ⮜
Siofra at the beginning was pretty mellow, she was afraid of almost everything around her, she wouldn't say much, and she would let others take decisions for her. Along the way you see her growth which was so drastic, she grew from page one to the end of the book so, so much and I loved when she showed everyone how powerful and strong she can be and that she didn't need anyone's protection.
Siofren was definitely one of those characters that you either love or hate, I loved and hated him at the same time - mostly because of his protective ways towards Siofra and the fact he would lie than tell the truth to her and take her out of her world that she created and escaped whenever she felt. However, I also understood him towards the end when more things fell in the right place.
Desemir was harder to decipher and harder to understand. It took me a long while to actually understand him and like him mostly because he was so mysterious and so set in his ways and wouldn't let anyone in, however, with Siofra's help he became a new person.
⮞ 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝-𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 ⮜
The world-building was definitely something else. I loved Siofra's powers, she was terrifying while Fen's powers were really cool - being able to grow stuff with your bare hands was mind-blowing, but destroying everything in your path with a scream was AMAZING! I'm all for woman power! Their world, in general, felt split between the rich people and the poor people, magic was a forbidden matter, and only if it was approved they could use it, otherwise, things would go very bad. Descriptions of their world besides the forest we didn't get many, I loved the place where Desemir was living, that forest was definitely out of a fairytale.
⮞ 𝐌𝐚𝐠𝐢𝐜 𝐒𝐲𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐦 ⮜
Siofra's powers were definitely amazing and very powerful and also scary, she was destructive that's for sure. The book was mostly focusing on Siofra's powers and the struggle of containing them when they weren't needed than on Fen's powers - which I'd loved to know more about, but it seems we will get a story only about Fen which I'm definitely excited about. I wanted to know more about Siofra's powers if she was getting them from her parents or the powers are random from the gods.
⮞ 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐈 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞𝐝 ⮜
The relationship between Siofra and Fen - they were so lovely as brother and sister and I loved their connection deeply. The relationship with their familiars was definitely unique and beautiful, I loved the way they were communicating it was almost like they could feel and understand each other to an emotional level, which most likely that's how they were even communicating.
Pesha and Fen were definitely my fave couple, they were kinda oblivious to their relationship that was growing but they were so sweet together and Pesha would turn into this cinnamon roll type of boyfriend whenever he was around Fen - I'm definitely excited to read a story only about these two because they deserve their own feature.
There were lots of funny moments that made me giggle - the breakfast scene was my fave, I could feel their tension and also how cringe everyone was, I couldn't not laugh at that scene it was just pure chaos.
There are ups and down's in this book, there is also some heartache going on too but the happy ending makes it up for it. I devoured the fact Desemir and Siofra were discovering each other slowly peal by peal and even if they had plenty of issues they somehow worked through them and stick together. There are also some triggers so make sure to read the triggers before diving into the book - I'm not a person who gets easily triggered so for me it wasn't an issue.
⮞ 𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞 ⮜
The spice I would say that is definitely around 3 flames and a half, is not overly, overly detailed but there are enough spicy scenes that would make you blush. There are also some scenes more on the BDSM side I'd say but everything that happens between Siofra and Desemir is consensual and all things happen in a safe environment.
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September 30, 2022
I wasn’t really in a fantasy mood when I received this ARC so it took me a little bit to get into the story.
Siofra and Stiofen are twins who are seriously mistreated by a steward who took them in after their parents died but with an ulterior motive – he wants to use the twins unique gifts. There’s no salvation in sight until…
A Master of Forests rescues them with a proposition, a marriage of convenience. But will a marriage of convenience lead to real feelings? And is this the end of Siofra and Stiofen’s bad luck?
The world building was excellently done and I enjoyed not only the complex relationship between Si and Des but their respective relationships with their siblings.
This is the spiciest book in the series so far, which I enjoyed.
A couple drawbacks for me that made it harder to get into the story was it felt like there was an over-explanation of things which since I wasn’t in a fantasy reading mood made the story a big of a struggle to connect with and not get bored with at times. Also, I think this book could have been shorter.
Overall, it was an enjoyable read and maybe when I feel like reading fantasy again I’ll read more of this author’s backlist.
Siofra and Stiofen are twins who are seriously mistreated by a steward who took them in after their parents died but with an ulterior motive – he wants to use the twins unique gifts. There’s no salvation in sight until…
A Master of Forests rescues them with a proposition, a marriage of convenience. But will a marriage of convenience lead to real feelings? And is this the end of Siofra and Stiofen’s bad luck?
The world building was excellently done and I enjoyed not only the complex relationship between Si and Des but their respective relationships with their siblings.
This is the spiciest book in the series so far, which I enjoyed.
A couple drawbacks for me that made it harder to get into the story was it felt like there was an over-explanation of things which since I wasn’t in a fantasy reading mood made the story a big of a struggle to connect with and not get bored with at times. Also, I think this book could have been shorter.
Overall, it was an enjoyable read and maybe when I feel like reading fantasy again I’ll read more of this author’s backlist.
September 15, 2022
The Melody and The Master quickly became one of my favorites out of the Book of All Things stand-alones! Cradit is a superb world builder and a genius at character development!
The Melody and The Master follows Soifra (Si) and her twin brother Stiofen (Fen), outcast Medvedev. Their journey takes them to the Darkwood, where Baron Desemir Trevanion offers them safety and refuge from those that would harm them for being creatures of magic. Des and Si have to overcome their own secrets and pasts in order to find true happiness in themselves and each other.
There are a few twists that were unexpected and some interesting secondary character developments that I truly hope to see more of in the future (Fen’s love interest!). I adore the Medvedev and was happy to see a bit more into their magic. I was also a huge fan of the spice and violence levels! The emotions in this book are so raw and real. It will definitely tug at your heart strings!
*I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The Melody and The Master follows Soifra (Si) and her twin brother Stiofen (Fen), outcast Medvedev. Their journey takes them to the Darkwood, where Baron Desemir Trevanion offers them safety and refuge from those that would harm them for being creatures of magic. Des and Si have to overcome their own secrets and pasts in order to find true happiness in themselves and each other.
There are a few twists that were unexpected and some interesting secondary character developments that I truly hope to see more of in the future (Fen’s love interest!). I adore the Medvedev and was happy to see a bit more into their magic. I was also a huge fan of the spice and violence levels! The emotions in this book are so raw and real. It will definitely tug at your heart strings!
*I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 18, 2022
I like the idea of a convenience marriage. But I couldn’t get into this book. I tried. I took a break and restarted it and I still couldn’t get into it. I really didn’t like our couple. I felt both Siofra and Desemir to be so whiny and annoying.
Although I did like Pesha and his friendship/relationship with Fen. They never started a romance relationship but there’s something there and I’m for it. The other side characters in the book were great as well.
Although I would have liked more with it, I liked the rescue mission, I felt it was interesting and nicely paced. Even the drama after it was good.
Not going to lie, Desemir’s secret made me mad. You needed nightly women for that? Although very sad there wasn’t really anything leading up to it. A random cry in the middle of the night and just everyone saying to stay out of the West Wing. You also don’t see it resolved so I don’t see the point in actually having that be part of the story. More about her magic and the problem of other lords wanting their part of the Darkwood back would have been enough for me.
Although I did like Pesha and his friendship/relationship with Fen. They never started a romance relationship but there’s something there and I’m for it. The other side characters in the book were great as well.
Although I would have liked more with it, I liked the rescue mission, I felt it was interesting and nicely paced. Even the drama after it was good.
Not going to lie, Desemir’s secret made me mad. You needed nightly women for that? Although very sad there wasn’t really anything leading up to it. A random cry in the middle of the night and just everyone saying to stay out of the West Wing. You also don’t see it resolved so I don’t see the point in actually having that be part of the story. More about her magic and the problem of other lords wanting their part of the Darkwood back would have been enough for me.
November 13, 2022
Heat Level: 🔥🔥🔥.5/5
Violence: ⚔️⚔️⚔️/5
Tropes:
- Marriage of convenience
- Dark magic
- Playboy/bad boy hero
- Emotional scars
- Found family
- Age gap
I seriously love the world Sarah has built for this series! Not to mention that I love the spice level jumps she's doing for the books. 😄
Sarah does such an amazing job with characters and character developments that I always fall in love with them. Siofra has magic, and she's scared of it, whereas Desemir is afraid of becoming like his abusive father. She not only writes great MCs, but her side characters are always amazing as well!
The story flows perfectly, and it always held my interest. I love me a good marriage of convenience! Seriously, read these books! The hardcovers are gorgeous, and it is my mission to own them all in hardcover. 😄
Violence: ⚔️⚔️⚔️/5
Tropes:
- Marriage of convenience
- Dark magic
- Playboy/bad boy hero
- Emotional scars
- Found family
- Age gap
I seriously love the world Sarah has built for this series! Not to mention that I love the spice level jumps she's doing for the books. 😄
Sarah does such an amazing job with characters and character developments that I always fall in love with them. Siofra has magic, and she's scared of it, whereas Desemir is afraid of becoming like his abusive father. She not only writes great MCs, but her side characters are always amazing as well!
The story flows perfectly, and it always held my interest. I love me a good marriage of convenience! Seriously, read these books! The hardcovers are gorgeous, and it is my mission to own them all in hardcover. 😄
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