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Fierce Hearts
Lose yourself in more than 1,000 pages of love, magic, adventure, and hope – all to help Ukrainian refugees affected by the recent tragedy.
The Fierce Hearts Charity Anthology includes 46 romantic fantasy novellas, novelettes, short stories, and exclusive sneak-peek chapters from more than 40 authors, including New York Times and USA Today bestsellers. Stories range from mild to scorching in heat level. Most importantly, all proceeds (100%) will be donated to the International Rescue Committee (or a similar charity should IRC become unavailable), which in turn will be directed to supporting humanitarian efforts on behalf of the Ukrainian people.
Authors featured include: Jeffe Kennedy, Olivia Wildenstein, Amelia Hutchins, Elizabeth Briggs, Karpov Kinrade, Sylvia Mercedes, Shari Tapscott, Hollee Mands, Miranda Honfleur, Carissa Broadbent, Clare Sager, Jessica M Butler, Catharine Glen, Monica Enderle Pierce, Karen Tomlinson, Marina Simcoe, Tessonja Odette, Anthea Sharp, Denali Day, Bethany Adams, and many more!
Fierce Hearts is only available for a limited time, so don’t miss your chance to own this fantastic anthology and support a very important cause.
The anthology organizers and participating authors are not affiliated or endorsed by the charity.
Bethany Adams, Amy Beatty, Claudia Blood, Elizabeth Briggs, Carissa Broadbent, Jessica M. Butler, Therena Carlin, Denali Day, Monica Enderle Pierce, Tameri Etherton, Eileen Fox, Lauren L. Garcia, Catharine Glen, Joan Grey, Kristina Gruell, Kyra Halland, Emma Hamm, Meredth Hart, Miranda Honfleur, Amelia Hutchins, Kelly N. Jane, Jaycee Jarvis, Clara C. Johnson, Jeffe Kennedy, Karpov Kinrade, Lisa Kumar, K.N. Lee, Kate LeFay, Constance Lopez, M. Lynn, Hollee Mands, Lisette Marshall, Daniela A. Mera, Sylvia Mercedes, C.A. Morley, Tessonja Odette, Monica Enderle Pierce, Joanna Reeder, Vanessa Roades, Vela Roth, Bernadette Rowley, Clare Sager, Anna Santos, Anthea Sharp, Marina Simcoe, R.A. Steffan, Shari L. Tapscott. Karen Tomlinson, Megan Van Dyke, Velora Venn, Charissa Weaks, & Olivia Wildenstein
The Fierce Hearts Charity Anthology includes 46 romantic fantasy novellas, novelettes, short stories, and exclusive sneak-peek chapters from more than 40 authors, including New York Times and USA Today bestsellers. Stories range from mild to scorching in heat level. Most importantly, all proceeds (100%) will be donated to the International Rescue Committee (or a similar charity should IRC become unavailable), which in turn will be directed to supporting humanitarian efforts on behalf of the Ukrainian people.
Authors featured include: Jeffe Kennedy, Olivia Wildenstein, Amelia Hutchins, Elizabeth Briggs, Karpov Kinrade, Sylvia Mercedes, Shari Tapscott, Hollee Mands, Miranda Honfleur, Carissa Broadbent, Clare Sager, Jessica M Butler, Catharine Glen, Monica Enderle Pierce, Karen Tomlinson, Marina Simcoe, Tessonja Odette, Anthea Sharp, Denali Day, Bethany Adams, and many more!
Fierce Hearts is only available for a limited time, so don’t miss your chance to own this fantastic anthology and support a very important cause.
The anthology organizers and participating authors are not affiliated or endorsed by the charity.
Bethany Adams, Amy Beatty, Claudia Blood, Elizabeth Briggs, Carissa Broadbent, Jessica M. Butler, Therena Carlin, Denali Day, Monica Enderle Pierce, Tameri Etherton, Eileen Fox, Lauren L. Garcia, Catharine Glen, Joan Grey, Kristina Gruell, Kyra Halland, Emma Hamm, Meredth Hart, Miranda Honfleur, Amelia Hutchins, Kelly N. Jane, Jaycee Jarvis, Clara C. Johnson, Jeffe Kennedy, Karpov Kinrade, Lisa Kumar, K.N. Lee, Kate LeFay, Constance Lopez, M. Lynn, Hollee Mands, Lisette Marshall, Daniela A. Mera, Sylvia Mercedes, C.A. Morley, Tessonja Odette, Monica Enderle Pierce, Joanna Reeder, Vanessa Roades, Vela Roth, Bernadette Rowley, Clare Sager, Anna Santos, Anthea Sharp, Marina Simcoe, R.A. Steffan, Shari L. Tapscott. Karen Tomlinson, Megan Van Dyke, Velora Venn, Charissa Weaks, & Olivia Wildenstein
2369 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 31, 2022
150 people are currently reading
1474 people want to read
About the author
Jeffe Kennedy
98 books1,338 followers💙She/her💙 Award-winning Bestselling Author of epic fantasy romance. Taoist. Swiftie. Santa Fean. Cat lady @sfwa_inc Past-President. Rep by @seyitsme
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
April 5, 2022
I'm working my way through this one, and I'll add a review for each story I read (hopefully all of them). I'll add the tropes below so that anyone who reads this review can read whichever stories they like :)
Blood Legacy, by Vela Roth - Fated mates, vampires, reverse age gap + some politics
The Diamond Scar, by Lisette Marshall - Fast burn hate-to-love, magic, adventurous MCs, FMC with a scar she's ashamed of but MMC considers it a part of her beauty + Bridgertony match-making & scandal vibes
Song of Shadows, by Sylvia Mercedes - this is a prequel to Sylvia Mercedes' Venatrix Chronicles which I'm hoping to get to soon! This novelette was a great introduction to the world, the magic, and the characters!
Blood Legacy, by Vela Roth - Fated mates, vampires, reverse age gap + some politics
The Diamond Scar, by Lisette Marshall - Fast burn hate-to-love, magic, adventurous MCs, FMC with a scar she's ashamed of but MMC considers it a part of her beauty + Bridgertony match-making & scandal vibes
Song of Shadows, by Sylvia Mercedes - this is a prequel to Sylvia Mercedes' Venatrix Chronicles which I'm hoping to get to soon! This novelette was a great introduction to the world, the magic, and the characters!
May 4, 2022
Here is a chance to help Ukrainian refugees while also getting almost a month's worth of reading pleasure.
Short Stories
The Golden Queen by Bethany Adams is a mild fantasy romance set in Anera during mid-spring where High Queen Orla has been imprisoned in a portrait for over a century that takes about half an hour to read.
The Oath by Lauren L. Garcia is a mild romance set in Aredia starting in Whitewater City at The Eye in early spring where Cobalt has become the Commander that takes about an hour.
The Oni's Code by Catherine Glen is a warm Japanese paranormal romance starting in Chiigai and takes about an hour.
Finding Family by Joan Grey is a mild shipwreck tale taking less than an hour.
The Bargain by Clara C. Johnson is a mild fairy tale about a farm family going through hard times and the bargain the elder daughter makes with an elf, and takes about an hour to read.
Of Summer and Stormlarks by Constance Lopez is a mild romance set in Makaria with a ballroom scene and takes about 40 minutes.
Wanderer by Hollee Mands is a warm winter forbidden romance with complications that can be read in an afternoon.
Cursed Hollow by Daniela A. Mera is The mild tale of Chloe, Caretaker of Les Bois Vastes that takes less than an hour.
Hissing Hellcats by Clare Sager is a mildly romantic privateer tale set in the Sabreverse and takes about half an hour.
Novelettes
Out of the Fire by Amy Beatty is a warm tale set in midwinter about the importance of asking only ONE question that takes about an hour.
Secrets at Midnight by Elizabeth Briggs is a steamy parted lovers' tale that takes about an hour and a half.
Touch of Flame by Monica Enderle Pierce is a scorching wyvern tale set in Orm that takes about two hours.
Wildfire by Kristina Gruell is a mild palace intrigue and travelogue about seven-year-old Lord Brandon Morthan in the summer of 1001 and takes about two hours.
A Cure for Nel by Kyra Halland is a mild romance set in Tehovir in summer when Nel contracts Marsh-Bite fever, The story takes about two hours.
The Mad King's Gold by Emma Hamm is a warm paranormal Rumplestiltskin retelling set in autumn that takes about two hours.
Darkest King by Amelia Hutchins is a scorching fantasy with nonconsensual sex that starts in the Witch's Court and takes about an hour.
Rescued by Rumplestiltskin by Jaycee Jarvis is a family-friendly Rumplestiltskin retelling that takes forty minutes.
Forever Bound by Karpov Kinrade is a steamy vampire romance that opens in a freezing Ukrainian forest in late December that can be read in an afternoon.
Set aside an hour for Bound to His Fate by Lisa Kumar which is a royal marriage fantasy featuring Talion, King of the Erian people.
Tiger Lily by Kate Lefay & Eileen Fox is a delightfully warm dragon debut set at Deeprun of Dahn Agata that kept me up WAY past my bedtime.
A Fae's Dilemma by M. Lynn & Melissa A. Craven is the mild prequel to the Queens of the Fae Series and is about 16-year-old Alona Cahill the magic-less princess of Eldur, taking a couple of hours to read.
Wayfinders: The Novice by C.A. Morley, taken from a longer work, is set in a religious school in Tilmar in midwinter, where 13-year-old Amity makes 15-year-old Paxton uncomfortable because she is so cheerful. Their story takes about two and a half hours.
Ballad Underfoot by Vanessa Roades is a warm, contemporary Orpheus retelling that takes about two hours.
Blood Legacy by Vela Roth is a scorching paranormal which starts in the great hall of the late Lord Octavian and takes about an hour to read.
Heart of the Forest by Anthea Sharp is a mild prequel to her Darkwood series, opening with Prince Kentry Larnoch of Raine chasing The White Stag through the Darkwood, and taking about an hour and a half.
Fire in Stone by Marina Simcoe is a steamy paranormal romance from the world of the River of Mists, set in Munich, that takes less than an hour.
Master of Wolves by R.A. Steffan, a scorching paranormal MM romance with consensual BDSM, kept me up WAY past my bedtime.
The Midnight Fae by Shari L. Tapscott is a warm 90-minute prequel to her Royal Fae world that opens in the ballroom of Davon in Valsta where ten princesses are gathered for a "friendly visit" to King Balthus and Prince Elliot.
A Gift for a Fae Warrior by Megan Van Dyke is a warm fantasy novelette set in winter on Aine's Day in Seelie Virideria while Amantia is attacked by Unseelie, and takes less than an hour.
Novella and Novels
Shattered Oak by Claudia Blood is a mild supernatural prologue in a battle against evil that can be read in an afternoon.
All the Prince's Men by Meredith Hart is a scorching gay romance with a twist that can be read in an afternoon.
Slayer's Song by Kelly N. Jane is a warm paranormal from the world of The Timeless Portal set in Cachise Valley where Miss Orsika plies her trade and the book can be finished in an afternoon.
Awakened by K.N. Lee is a mild paranormal battle against evil set in The Vale in which identities are revealed but after three and a half hours one is left on a cliff.
The Diamond Scar by Lisette Marshall is a sweet, steamy tale of an out-of-work soldier in midwinter at the Copper Coast court ball that takes two hours.
Song of Shadows by Sylvia Mercedes is a mild prequel to her Venatrix Chronicles which starts in Basina when Hollis di Theldry is three and quickly moves ahead to when she is twenty at Castra Iarcand, with a culminating return to Iarcand when she is twenty.
Exiling a Fae Queen by Joanna Reeder is a mild contemporary prequel to her Raven Court Series which tells the story of Crown Princess Aria Elmswisk of North Court and can be read in a long afternoon.
Mermaid Queen by Anna Santos: What can I say without risking a spoiler? There ARE steamy parts and the book only takes three hours.
Hearts of Stone: Star Crossed by Velora Venn is a mild dystopia and rebirth story with steam-punk elements starting six months ago on Gaiath in spring with the Mist and the mandracals expelled from Noxhaven, among them, Sakura Kiyama (twenty-one). After a couple of hours of reading, the book ends unresolved.
First Chapters of
The Serpent and the Wings of Night by Carissa Broadbent is a mild quest in which Vincent, the vampire king, adopts Oraya, a human orphan, raising her to age 21.
Dragon Unmasked by Jessica M. Butler is a warm standalone series in the Tue-RAh verse that has human sacrifices and a quest to end them.
Star Found by Therena Carlin is a steamy romantic paranormal fantasy set in spring in the Tri-Realms Borderlands during the perennial war between good and evil
Dokiri Claimed by Denali Day is a warm paranormal fantasy about the profoundly deaf dragon rider Roar and his courtship of the blond, singing goat girl.
Dragon Mage by Tameri Etherton is a steamy fantasy from the Aetherverse where 25-year-old Amaleigh and 50ish Cornelius hide near Cilachaem from King Heshen of Eidyn.
An Ember in the Dark by Miranda Honfleur is a steamy, standalone fantasy romance set in the world of Blade and Rose which starts with Lucia (body double for Princess Bianca) hiding in the monastery library with her ladies from the attack of rogue elves.
The Storm Princess and the Raven King by Jeffe Kennedy is a steamy paranormal fantasy romance adventure that starts at Castle Ordnung at the end of a tryst between teenagers surfer Princess Salena Nakoa KauPo of Nahanau and Prince Ryian of Annfwn of the Thirteen Kingdoms, then jumps ahead seven years.
A Throne of Shadows by Tessonja Odette is a warm dark paranormal fantasy about secrets that starts out on Beltane in a tent shared by Cora and Maiya amid the Forest People, moving on from there to Verlot Palace where Princess Mareleau Harvallis is choosing her groom (even though she has been engaged to Crown Prince Teryn Alante of Menah for that past three years).
Of Queens and Dragons by Bernadette Rowley is a steamy fantasy that starts in Thorius when King Beniel Zialni has just died defending against the Sis Lenweri and has elements of a slightly sordid royal soap opera.
Veil of Souls by Karen Tomlinson is a quick introduction to an extremely dysfunctional paranormal family in the Netherworld.
City of Ruin by Charissa Weaks is a steamy autumn tale starting in Frostwater Wood of Winterhold about Raina who cannot speak and Alexus Thibault AKA Alexi of Ghent, now over 320 years of age, who was terrorized as a child of ten in The Death Pit.
House of Beating Wings by Olivia Wildenstein is a warm, somewhat contemporary fantasy set in Tarelexo near Monteluce about 22-year-old halfling Fallon Rossi and Altezza Dante and has a full soap opera of characters.
I had an ARC via Bookfunnel and this voluntary review is my own opinion.
Short Stories
The Golden Queen by Bethany Adams is a mild fantasy romance set in Anera during mid-spring where High Queen Orla has been imprisoned in a portrait for over a century that takes about half an hour to read.
The Oath by Lauren L. Garcia is a mild romance set in Aredia starting in Whitewater City at The Eye in early spring where Cobalt has become the Commander that takes about an hour.
The Oni's Code by Catherine Glen is a warm Japanese paranormal romance starting in Chiigai and takes about an hour.
Finding Family by Joan Grey is a mild shipwreck tale taking less than an hour.
The Bargain by Clara C. Johnson is a mild fairy tale about a farm family going through hard times and the bargain the elder daughter makes with an elf, and takes about an hour to read.
Of Summer and Stormlarks by Constance Lopez is a mild romance set in Makaria with a ballroom scene and takes about 40 minutes.
Wanderer by Hollee Mands is a warm winter forbidden romance with complications that can be read in an afternoon.
Cursed Hollow by Daniela A. Mera is The mild tale of Chloe, Caretaker of Les Bois Vastes that takes less than an hour.
Hissing Hellcats by Clare Sager is a mildly romantic privateer tale set in the Sabreverse and takes about half an hour.
Novelettes
Out of the Fire by Amy Beatty is a warm tale set in midwinter about the importance of asking only ONE question that takes about an hour.
Secrets at Midnight by Elizabeth Briggs is a steamy parted lovers' tale that takes about an hour and a half.
Touch of Flame by Monica Enderle Pierce is a scorching wyvern tale set in Orm that takes about two hours.
Wildfire by Kristina Gruell is a mild palace intrigue and travelogue about seven-year-old Lord Brandon Morthan in the summer of 1001 and takes about two hours.
A Cure for Nel by Kyra Halland is a mild romance set in Tehovir in summer when Nel contracts Marsh-Bite fever, The story takes about two hours.
The Mad King's Gold by Emma Hamm is a warm paranormal Rumplestiltskin retelling set in autumn that takes about two hours.
Darkest King by Amelia Hutchins is a scorching fantasy with nonconsensual sex that starts in the Witch's Court and takes about an hour.
Rescued by Rumplestiltskin by Jaycee Jarvis is a family-friendly Rumplestiltskin retelling that takes forty minutes.
Forever Bound by Karpov Kinrade is a steamy vampire romance that opens in a freezing Ukrainian forest in late December that can be read in an afternoon.
Set aside an hour for Bound to His Fate by Lisa Kumar which is a royal marriage fantasy featuring Talion, King of the Erian people.
Tiger Lily by Kate Lefay & Eileen Fox is a delightfully warm dragon debut set at Deeprun of Dahn Agata that kept me up WAY past my bedtime.
A Fae's Dilemma by M. Lynn & Melissa A. Craven is the mild prequel to the Queens of the Fae Series and is about 16-year-old Alona Cahill the magic-less princess of Eldur, taking a couple of hours to read.
Wayfinders: The Novice by C.A. Morley, taken from a longer work, is set in a religious school in Tilmar in midwinter, where 13-year-old Amity makes 15-year-old Paxton uncomfortable because she is so cheerful. Their story takes about two and a half hours.
Ballad Underfoot by Vanessa Roades is a warm, contemporary Orpheus retelling that takes about two hours.
Blood Legacy by Vela Roth is a scorching paranormal which starts in the great hall of the late Lord Octavian and takes about an hour to read.
Heart of the Forest by Anthea Sharp is a mild prequel to her Darkwood series, opening with Prince Kentry Larnoch of Raine chasing The White Stag through the Darkwood, and taking about an hour and a half.
Fire in Stone by Marina Simcoe is a steamy paranormal romance from the world of the River of Mists, set in Munich, that takes less than an hour.
Master of Wolves by R.A. Steffan, a scorching paranormal MM romance with consensual BDSM, kept me up WAY past my bedtime.
The Midnight Fae by Shari L. Tapscott is a warm 90-minute prequel to her Royal Fae world that opens in the ballroom of Davon in Valsta where ten princesses are gathered for a "friendly visit" to King Balthus and Prince Elliot.
A Gift for a Fae Warrior by Megan Van Dyke is a warm fantasy novelette set in winter on Aine's Day in Seelie Virideria while Amantia is attacked by Unseelie, and takes less than an hour.
Novella and Novels
Shattered Oak by Claudia Blood is a mild supernatural prologue in a battle against evil that can be read in an afternoon.
All the Prince's Men by Meredith Hart is a scorching gay romance with a twist that can be read in an afternoon.
Slayer's Song by Kelly N. Jane is a warm paranormal from the world of The Timeless Portal set in Cachise Valley where Miss Orsika plies her trade and the book can be finished in an afternoon.
Awakened by K.N. Lee is a mild paranormal battle against evil set in The Vale in which identities are revealed but after three and a half hours one is left on a cliff.
The Diamond Scar by Lisette Marshall is a sweet, steamy tale of an out-of-work soldier in midwinter at the Copper Coast court ball that takes two hours.
Song of Shadows by Sylvia Mercedes is a mild prequel to her Venatrix Chronicles which starts in Basina when Hollis di Theldry is three and quickly moves ahead to when she is twenty at Castra Iarcand, with a culminating return to Iarcand when she is twenty.
Exiling a Fae Queen by Joanna Reeder is a mild contemporary prequel to her Raven Court Series which tells the story of Crown Princess Aria Elmswisk of North Court and can be read in a long afternoon.
Mermaid Queen by Anna Santos: What can I say without risking a spoiler? There ARE steamy parts and the book only takes three hours.
Hearts of Stone: Star Crossed by Velora Venn is a mild dystopia and rebirth story with steam-punk elements starting six months ago on Gaiath in spring with the Mist and the mandracals expelled from Noxhaven, among them, Sakura Kiyama (twenty-one). After a couple of hours of reading, the book ends unresolved.
First Chapters of
The Serpent and the Wings of Night by Carissa Broadbent is a mild quest in which Vincent, the vampire king, adopts Oraya, a human orphan, raising her to age 21.
Dragon Unmasked by Jessica M. Butler is a warm standalone series in the Tue-RAh verse that has human sacrifices and a quest to end them.
Star Found by Therena Carlin is a steamy romantic paranormal fantasy set in spring in the Tri-Realms Borderlands during the perennial war between good and evil
Dokiri Claimed by Denali Day is a warm paranormal fantasy about the profoundly deaf dragon rider Roar and his courtship of the blond, singing goat girl.
Dragon Mage by Tameri Etherton is a steamy fantasy from the Aetherverse where 25-year-old Amaleigh and 50ish Cornelius hide near Cilachaem from King Heshen of Eidyn.
An Ember in the Dark by Miranda Honfleur is a steamy, standalone fantasy romance set in the world of Blade and Rose which starts with Lucia (body double for Princess Bianca) hiding in the monastery library with her ladies from the attack of rogue elves.
The Storm Princess and the Raven King by Jeffe Kennedy is a steamy paranormal fantasy romance adventure that starts at Castle Ordnung at the end of a tryst between teenagers surfer Princess Salena Nakoa KauPo of Nahanau and Prince Ryian of Annfwn of the Thirteen Kingdoms, then jumps ahead seven years.
A Throne of Shadows by Tessonja Odette is a warm dark paranormal fantasy about secrets that starts out on Beltane in a tent shared by Cora and Maiya amid the Forest People, moving on from there to Verlot Palace where Princess Mareleau Harvallis is choosing her groom (even though she has been engaged to Crown Prince Teryn Alante of Menah for that past three years).
Of Queens and Dragons by Bernadette Rowley is a steamy fantasy that starts in Thorius when King Beniel Zialni has just died defending against the Sis Lenweri and has elements of a slightly sordid royal soap opera.
Veil of Souls by Karen Tomlinson is a quick introduction to an extremely dysfunctional paranormal family in the Netherworld.
City of Ruin by Charissa Weaks is a steamy autumn tale starting in Frostwater Wood of Winterhold about Raina who cannot speak and Alexus Thibault AKA Alexi of Ghent, now over 320 years of age, who was terrorized as a child of ten in The Death Pit.
House of Beating Wings by Olivia Wildenstein is a warm, somewhat contemporary fantasy set in Tarelexo near Monteluce about 22-year-old halfling Fallon Rossi and Altezza Dante and has a full soap opera of characters.
I had an ARC via Bookfunnel and this voluntary review is my own opinion.
April 20, 2022
Fierce Hearts is an anthology put together by several great authors to raise money to donate to the survivors of the ongoing war against the Ukraine by Russia.
I’ve read through the first part of the very large book entitled Short Stories. There are also Novelettes, Novellas, and First chapters of upcoming books. I will review more as I finish. The mostly romance stories range in heat levels from child appropriate to steamy. Four teacups being the steamiest. You are well warned before you start.
SHORT STORIES
The Golden Queen - Bethany Adams
Heat Level: ☕︎
**** (4 stars)
Cute little story about a queen trapped in a portrait by an evil mage. Love at first sight.
The Oath Heat - Lauren L. Garcia
Level: ☕︎
***(3 stars)
Guy gives up position as a mage hunter after higher ups commit an atrocity, shaking his beliefs. He starts over with his ex.
The Oni’s Code - Catharine Glen
Heat Level: ☕︎☕︎
*****(5 stars)
For a short story, this was surprisingly good. Might have to read more from this author. Japanese assassin and her demon.
Finding Family - Joan Grey
Heat Level: ☕︎
****(4 stars)
Mermaids. Backstabbing captain.
The Bargain - Clara C. Johnson
Heat Level: ☕︎
***(3 stars)
Too good to be true. Human marries the last fae in exchange for leaving her family forever.
Of Summer and Stormlarks - Constance Lopez
Heat Level: ☕︎
*****(5 stars)
Cute story about a dragon hunter and a princess.
Wanderer - Hollee Mands
Heat Level: ☕︎☕︎☕︎
*****(5 stars)
Amnesiac daemon hunter finds his love in an outcast.
Cursed Hollow - Daniela A. Mera
Heat Level: ☕︎
**(2 stars)
Didn’t care for the writing style. I was irritated by the main character’s actions. Bird shifters protecting the land.
Hissing Hellcats - Clare Sager
Heat Level: ☕︎☕︎
*****(5 stars)
Adorable story which is also available when you join the author’s email. Part of the Beneath Black Sails series. Barnacle, the pirate ship Morrigan’s mascot/pirate queen’s cat has been catnapped by a rival pirate ship’s captain. Hijinks ensue.
I’ve read through the first part of the very large book entitled Short Stories. There are also Novelettes, Novellas, and First chapters of upcoming books. I will review more as I finish. The mostly romance stories range in heat levels from child appropriate to steamy. Four teacups being the steamiest. You are well warned before you start.
SHORT STORIES
The Golden Queen - Bethany Adams
Heat Level: ☕︎
**** (4 stars)
Cute little story about a queen trapped in a portrait by an evil mage. Love at first sight.
The Oath Heat - Lauren L. Garcia
Level: ☕︎
***(3 stars)
Guy gives up position as a mage hunter after higher ups commit an atrocity, shaking his beliefs. He starts over with his ex.
The Oni’s Code - Catharine Glen
Heat Level: ☕︎☕︎
*****(5 stars)
For a short story, this was surprisingly good. Might have to read more from this author. Japanese assassin and her demon.
Finding Family - Joan Grey
Heat Level: ☕︎
****(4 stars)
Mermaids. Backstabbing captain.
The Bargain - Clara C. Johnson
Heat Level: ☕︎
***(3 stars)
Too good to be true. Human marries the last fae in exchange for leaving her family forever.
Of Summer and Stormlarks - Constance Lopez
Heat Level: ☕︎
*****(5 stars)
Cute story about a dragon hunter and a princess.
Wanderer - Hollee Mands
Heat Level: ☕︎☕︎☕︎
*****(5 stars)
Amnesiac daemon hunter finds his love in an outcast.
Cursed Hollow - Daniela A. Mera
Heat Level: ☕︎
**(2 stars)
Didn’t care for the writing style. I was irritated by the main character’s actions. Bird shifters protecting the land.
Hissing Hellcats - Clare Sager
Heat Level: ☕︎☕︎
*****(5 stars)
Adorable story which is also available when you join the author’s email. Part of the Beneath Black Sails series. Barnacle, the pirate ship Morrigan’s mascot/pirate queen’s cat has been catnapped by a rival pirate ship’s captain. Hijinks ensue.
April 1, 2022
All for charity!
I applaud all these authors for setting this up. It’s amazing what they’re doing, so I’m doing my own little bit by buying this collection. A win-win, really, because there are amazing authors in this collection!
So far, I’ve only managed to read one of the many stories. I read the one by Vela Roth called Blood Legacy. It’s set in the Blood Grace world and I am familiar with that world, which made it easy for me to get into the story. But you can read it as a standalone, it’s not necessary to be familiar with said world. And I loved this story! It was so good, so well-written. Steamy, fast, but despite the fastness it was well developed.
Now on towards the other stories!
I applaud all these authors for setting this up. It’s amazing what they’re doing, so I’m doing my own little bit by buying this collection. A win-win, really, because there are amazing authors in this collection!
So far, I’ve only managed to read one of the many stories. I read the one by Vela Roth called Blood Legacy. It’s set in the Blood Grace world and I am familiar with that world, which made it easy for me to get into the story. But you can read it as a standalone, it’s not necessary to be familiar with said world. And I loved this story! It was so good, so well-written. Steamy, fast, but despite the fastness it was well developed.
Now on towards the other stories!
September 4, 2022
I am writing individual reviews for the story's in this collection as I read them. I will not be reading all of the stories but I will post a review for all the ones that I do read.
SHORT STORIES:
The Golden Queen: This was a fun sweet story. I liked the multiple POVs and thought they elevated the story especially since the characters had such differing perspectives to share.
3/5 Stars
The Oath: This story didn't really hit with me. I think I just didn't know enough about the characters and the world to really get invested in them at all. Also the choices made by the characters made no sense to me and really rubbed me wrong. I really didn't like what the main character did in the story. It did not make sense with what had been established previously in the story.
2/5 stars
The Oni's Code: This was a quick short story. It was enjoyable to read, it just felt like it lacked something.
3/5 stars
Finding Family: I really enjoyed this story. I loved how it had more than just the romance part of it. It was a really cool story with a cool mermaid aspect. After reading this story, I want to read more from this author. I am definitely going to look into her other works.
5/5 stars
The Bargain: This was a really enjoyable story. I really liked way the character perspective was written. I think I would enjoy reading a book based on the time during the time skip in the story.
4/5 stars
Of Summer and Stormlarks: This was a fantastic short story romance! I actually connected to the characters and felt like I was invested in the characters relationship with one another. I could easily see myself looking up this author to read more of her writing in the future.
5/5 stars
Cursed Hollow: I was really intrigued by the idea of this story. I really enjoyed reading about the main character and what she was. Though the romance development didn't really connect with me. I just think I need more to my romance stories that 'for some reason I trust him.' And I was really confused about how the actions of male character could lead to the trust of the main character in the first place.
3/5 stars
Hissing Hellcats: I am so glad that this was a short story, because if it was any longer I do not think I would have been able to finish it. The whole story just felt so immature. The characters, their motivations, their actions and how they reacted in every single situation was just immature and silly. I had to stop frequently to just roll my eyes at this story.
1/5 stars
NOVELETTES:
Out of the Fire: I really enjoyed this story. I loved how it was a romance from an outside perspective. We got to see the love of these fairies through the main character and it was told fabulously. I also really loved the ending to the story.
5/5 stars
Wildfire: I really enjoyed this story. I wasn't too invested in the romance aspect of it but I found all the characters to be fascinating. Especially Brandon. I could see myself reading more about Brandon as he grows older.
4/5 stars
A Cure for Nel: This was a fun read. I really liked how our protagonist grew through the story. I also really liked the story that was told, it was a fun one. I love how the magic worked and the intricacies to it.
4/5 stars
Rescued by Rumpelstiltskin: I liked this story. It was a sweet romance. I loved that it was a fairy tale retelling! I loved how the tale was interpreted and how the couple ended up together in the end. Super sweet.
4/5 stars
Bound to His Fate: This wasn't even a story. I don't even know what to say. It was almost like a boring slice of life without the charm that you would expect from a slice of life. There was no conflict, just a blink into the lives of various characters.
1/5 stars
Tiger Lily: I'm conflicted about this story. For one, I loved the romance and the relationship between the two main characters. Loved the relationship development and the character growth! But the ending was more tragic than I was expecting. It was still good, but because I loved the characters so much, I really wanted to see them happy together.
4/5 stars
A Fae's Dilemma: This was a fun story. I loved the characters. Just a sweet story. I loved the characters reactions to the human world. I would definitely be interested in reading the story of the other characters involved.
4/5 stars
Wayfinders: The Novice: I loved the story in this and how the relationship between the characters developed. So great! Honestly I loved the character growth and how the story ended. I could see myself reading more from this author in the future.
5/5 stars
Steam Content: The content to expect for each story is very clearly marked including any relevant trigger warnings. There are stories ranging from super sweet to really steamy and you know what they will be before you read them.
SHORT STORIES:
The Golden Queen: This was a fun sweet story. I liked the multiple POVs and thought they elevated the story especially since the characters had such differing perspectives to share.
3/5 Stars
The Oath: This story didn't really hit with me. I think I just didn't know enough about the characters and the world to really get invested in them at all. Also the choices made by the characters made no sense to me and really rubbed me wrong. I really didn't like what the main character did in the story. It did not make sense with what had been established previously in the story.
2/5 stars
The Oni's Code: This was a quick short story. It was enjoyable to read, it just felt like it lacked something.
3/5 stars
Finding Family: I really enjoyed this story. I loved how it had more than just the romance part of it. It was a really cool story with a cool mermaid aspect. After reading this story, I want to read more from this author. I am definitely going to look into her other works.
5/5 stars
The Bargain: This was a really enjoyable story. I really liked way the character perspective was written. I think I would enjoy reading a book based on the time during the time skip in the story.
4/5 stars
Of Summer and Stormlarks: This was a fantastic short story romance! I actually connected to the characters and felt like I was invested in the characters relationship with one another. I could easily see myself looking up this author to read more of her writing in the future.
5/5 stars
Cursed Hollow: I was really intrigued by the idea of this story. I really enjoyed reading about the main character and what she was. Though the romance development didn't really connect with me. I just think I need more to my romance stories that 'for some reason I trust him.' And I was really confused about how the actions of male character could lead to the trust of the main character in the first place.
3/5 stars
Hissing Hellcats: I am so glad that this was a short story, because if it was any longer I do not think I would have been able to finish it. The whole story just felt so immature. The characters, their motivations, their actions and how they reacted in every single situation was just immature and silly. I had to stop frequently to just roll my eyes at this story.
1/5 stars
NOVELETTES:
Out of the Fire: I really enjoyed this story. I loved how it was a romance from an outside perspective. We got to see the love of these fairies through the main character and it was told fabulously. I also really loved the ending to the story.
5/5 stars
Wildfire: I really enjoyed this story. I wasn't too invested in the romance aspect of it but I found all the characters to be fascinating. Especially Brandon. I could see myself reading more about Brandon as he grows older.
4/5 stars
A Cure for Nel: This was a fun read. I really liked how our protagonist grew through the story. I also really liked the story that was told, it was a fun one. I love how the magic worked and the intricacies to it.
4/5 stars
Rescued by Rumpelstiltskin: I liked this story. It was a sweet romance. I loved that it was a fairy tale retelling! I loved how the tale was interpreted and how the couple ended up together in the end. Super sweet.
4/5 stars
Bound to His Fate: This wasn't even a story. I don't even know what to say. It was almost like a boring slice of life without the charm that you would expect from a slice of life. There was no conflict, just a blink into the lives of various characters.
1/5 stars
Tiger Lily: I'm conflicted about this story. For one, I loved the romance and the relationship between the two main characters. Loved the relationship development and the character growth! But the ending was more tragic than I was expecting. It was still good, but because I loved the characters so much, I really wanted to see them happy together.
4/5 stars
A Fae's Dilemma: This was a fun story. I loved the characters. Just a sweet story. I loved the characters reactions to the human world. I would definitely be interested in reading the story of the other characters involved.
4/5 stars
Wayfinders: The Novice: I loved the story in this and how the relationship between the characters developed. So great! Honestly I loved the character growth and how the story ended. I could see myself reading more from this author in the future.
5/5 stars
Steam Content: The content to expect for each story is very clearly marked including any relevant trigger warnings. There are stories ranging from super sweet to really steamy and you know what they will be before you read them.
April 3, 2022
I just started this anthology and already love it. Thank you so much for putting it together for such an important cause. One story that really stuck out for me was Of Summer and Stormlarks. Really, really sweet. Well-written, well-edited. I'd love to read more about Eamon and Cara, and I'd LOVE to read more from Constance Lopez.
I'll update the review as I read other stories I love.
Thanks again for putting this anthology together!
I'll update the review as I read other stories I love.
Thanks again for putting this anthology together!
April 10, 2022
I actually bought this collection purely because of the cause it supported, as my husband and I have friends in Kyiv and Lviv who are living through this horror, so any support that can be given for those suffering in Ukraine is truly noble in our minds. Frankly, even if you’re not a fan of romantic fantasy I’d urge you to get it just because of that. Having that that, I am amazed by the talent that contributed to the collection. A wonderfully talented group of authors, including several - Eva Chase, Miranda Honfleur, Anna Santos, Anthea Sharp and KN Lee - who are among my all-time favorites and seem incapable of writing anything that’s not superb. Their contributions here certainly met that bar, and frankly there were lots of gems in the other contributions, all of which were fun a large number of which were really great. So, come out for the cause, but you’ll definitely stay for the enjoyment here. No surprise I most definitely recommend this collection.
April 5, 2022
This is a highly entertatining compilation of short stories, novellas, and novel excerpts from authors who are outstanding in storytelling. I loved that it is set up with a page to describe the author, their works, and how this story might fit in, along with links to them. I haven't totally finished reading since it's such a large book for a great price and a wonderful cause. The stories I have read have the indepth characters that we've come to love from these authors along with plots that reach out and touch you in some way. Giving the "coffee heat index" is very helpful if you are sharing these stories with younger people (middle school/high school). Many blessings to all those wonderful authors, sharing their gifts for the embattled people of Ukraine, and special prayers for the Ukranians!
April 10, 2022
OMG! I found myself completely emmersed into this anthology, each and every story was unique, interesting, and at times steamy. I loved all of them, like I seriously had a hard time picking favorites but staying true to myself I was in love with the highest scorching levels. So I loved the authors Briggs, Pierce, Hutchins, Roth, Steffan, and Hart. But seriously, all these stories were absolutely good, and grab your attention right from the start. Like I started reading in the late morning and then heard bird chirping...apparently it was early the next morning, Ha! This is a must read for any romantic fantasy reader!!
May 8, 2022
Fans of romantic fantasy should consider picking up this anthology, which was written for an amazing cause i.e. helping the people of Ukraine.
I particularly enjoyed The Golden Queen by Bethany Adams. The title had me instantly wanting to know more about who the queen might be and why she was called golden. I thought that the choice of dual POV worked really well, helping to flesh out both characters' motivations and especially made Orla seem three dimensional as opposed to the two dimensional idol she might have been otherwise. The plot was fast paced, but did not seem rushed and I found the conclusion to be satisfying for a short story, which is not always the case.
I particularly enjoyed The Golden Queen by Bethany Adams. The title had me instantly wanting to know more about who the queen might be and why she was called golden. I thought that the choice of dual POV worked really well, helping to flesh out both characters' motivations and especially made Orla seem three dimensional as opposed to the two dimensional idol she might have been otherwise. The plot was fast paced, but did not seem rushed and I found the conclusion to be satisfying for a short story, which is not always the case.
June 12, 2022
Bountiful
There is a tremendous amount of stories in this collection. My favorites were "Secrets at Midnight" by Elizabeth Briggs, " A Cure for Nel" by Kyra Halland, "The Mad King's Gold" by Emma Hamm, "Blood Legacy" by Vela Roth, "Shattered Oak" by Claudia Blood, "Slayer's Song" by Kelly N Jane and "The Diamond Scar" by Listers Marshall. There are a few cliffhangers, but I expected that. The only other daunting part was that so many of the stories are of a similar theme so I advise you to take your time reading it so the stories don't run together.
There is a tremendous amount of stories in this collection. My favorites were "Secrets at Midnight" by Elizabeth Briggs, " A Cure for Nel" by Kyra Halland, "The Mad King's Gold" by Emma Hamm, "Blood Legacy" by Vela Roth, "Shattered Oak" by Claudia Blood, "Slayer's Song" by Kelly N Jane and "The Diamond Scar" by Listers Marshall. There are a few cliffhangers, but I expected that. The only other daunting part was that so many of the stories are of a similar theme so I advise you to take your time reading it so the stories don't run together.
April 10, 2022
Amazing collection of short stories from a group of brilliant and caring authors. I've read a few stories from the collection so far - there are so many it's possible to get through too many in one sitting, though I tried! This collection is a lovely way to find new authors and I appreciated having the "heat" levels clearly marked. Definitely something for everyone, no matter one's general reading preferences. Recommend!
April 1, 2022
This anthology has over 40 short romance stories from K.N. Lee Amelia Hutchins Kaprov Kinrade R.A. Steffan Elizabeth Briggs and many others. This will give you a great start to some hot and steamy stories. All proceeds go to charity so it is always nice when authors come together for such great causes
April 1, 2022
All I can say is WOW! The stories are good and the cause is better. You will not be disappointed with this book and your heart will feel so good for helping! Buy it..you won't be sorry! Buy them both..Fierce Hearts AND Adamant Spirits and feel really good! Thank you authors for your beautiful hearts!
April 11, 2022
I am a fast reader, but I still have a lot of great stories to read ( 2000 pages are a lot!!). To read and to do something good- just perfect! So far, there was not one story that I didn´t like, a few are very short but give a nice insight of the created world/ the writing style of the author. I will definitely find new authors for my TBR.
April 14, 2022
This is a brilliant read.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great drama and romance with wonderful world building.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great drama and romance with wonderful world building.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
April 19, 2022
This is an awesome collection of stories put together for an awesome cause. Found some new to me authors that I will definitely be reading more from and enjoyed reading from some of my favorite authors as well. Consider purchasing this anthology not just because of the amazing stories but to help the Ukrainian people♥️♥️
May 7, 2022
Like all anthologies, had some great stories, and some that weren’t to my taste. Loved the fact that each story rated its steaminess before hand, so that I could avoid what I didn’t want to read. Found some new authors to follow and read! Overall a great read and a chance to offer a little help to those who need it!
May 9, 2022
Wasn’t sure what to expect with this collection of fantasy short and longer stories but was delighted to be transported into other places and discover new authors that I have now followed on goodreads. There were a few short and puzzling snippets of stories towards the end of the collection that really didn’t have time to develop but overall a very entertaining read!
December 27, 2022
This is a great way to get a taste of quite an amount of different authors! There’s some I liked and some I didn’t and I feel like I got the chance to dip my toes without fully submerging into worlds before I’m ready!
I’m especially excited for Amelia Hutchin’s Darkest King and Olivia Wildenstein’s House of Beating Wings!
Plus it’s for a great cause!
I’m especially excited for Amelia Hutchin’s Darkest King and Olivia Wildenstein’s House of Beating Wings!
Plus it’s for a great cause!
April 3, 2022
I was very impressed with all of the stories! Each story captivated and pulled you into the story as if you were there in the moment.
I have been introduced to authors which I have not read before and reacquainted with others and of course my favorite writers. Thank you all for this opportunity
I have been introduced to authors which I have not read before and reacquainted with others and of course my favorite writers. Thank you all for this opportunity
April 9, 2022
I've never read a better bunch of authors, who wrote such great stories, So many heroes and heroines. I also love the cause. They showed us what it means to be compassionate. Guaranteed a great read!!!
April 10, 2022
This is a great collection of short stories. Most will make you fall in love and wish you could go on your own Minnie adventure into a fantasy world. My favorite addition was Fire in stone by Marina Simcoe
April 10, 2022
An wonderful anthology for a wonderful cause.
Many of the stories in this anthology were quite beautiful. The one that stood out to me was “Wanderer” by Hollee Mands. A wanderer and Hunter fall in love only to be separated for years by tragedy. This collection is definitely worth the read.
Many of the stories in this anthology were quite beautiful. The one that stood out to me was “Wanderer” by Hollee Mands. A wanderer and Hunter fall in love only to be separated for years by tragedy. This collection is definitely worth the read.
April 11, 2022
What a wonderful collection of short stories! I haven't read them all, but each one takes me on a different adventure. I'm loving them so far. I can only say "well done" to all the authors who contributed to bring us such a beautiful collection of wonderful stories
April 17, 2022
The bargain by Clara Johnson was the first I randomly picked to read. As the title of the box set suggests the MC does have a fierce heart. The story is a bit predictable in the end even tho it’s short and sweet this set is full of so many, you’re sure to find something you’ll enjoy!
May 17, 2022
I loved this anthology! There wasn't a story in here that I didn't like which is rare for me when I read an anthology. I found so many new authors to check out and my tbr went up a lot...which probably wasn't great. I love that this was for charity and I could help support that.
May 19, 2022
The storytelling by these authors are thought provoking and great romantic reads. Everything you could want in a book is wrote by these wonderful writers and one story after another, they just don't stop! Something for everyone, good stories.
June 20, 2022
I just read Shari Tapscott's entry into this anthology. It was adorable fae romance set in the same world as her Royal Fae of Briar Wood series. It was really sweet, but it is (I think) a prequel to an upcoming series, so the ending is left open for more.
April 4, 2022
Wonderful collaboration from multiple authors for a worthy cause. This anthology is packed with magical, fantastical adventures with varying degrees of storylines.
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