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Fae Isles #0.5
Heart of Silk and Shadows
Stealing from a fae lord is a desperate plan…
As a human servant at the Crimson Court, Allie knows better than to anger the fae. Cunning and politics are her tools of survival. But when an unwanted suitor threatens her younger sister, Allie can think of only one way to protect her family…
Steal from the fae.
Agenor, Lord Protector of the Fae Isles and right hand of the Mother herself, doesn’t expect anything to still surprise him after twelve centuries of life. Finding a taunting note from an anonymous thief in his wardrobe is enough to rouse his curiosity, though. Enough to do the unthinkable – write back.
Then he finds out he’s been exchanging letters with a humble human. Worse, a human challenging him to his face.
A simple bargain is supposed to teach her a lesson. But the harder he tries to put her in her place, the harder she defies him… Soon their game sparks an unexpected romance – but will even love be enough when their loyalties collide?
Heart of Silk and Shadows is a prequel novel to the upcoming Fae Isles series. It can be read as a standalone, but the characters’ journey continues in the main series.
Note: this adult fae romance contains a generous dose of smouldering glances, passionate longing, and midnight meetings of the illicit type. It is recommended for a mature audience.
As a human servant at the Crimson Court, Allie knows better than to anger the fae. Cunning and politics are her tools of survival. But when an unwanted suitor threatens her younger sister, Allie can think of only one way to protect her family…
Steal from the fae.
Agenor, Lord Protector of the Fae Isles and right hand of the Mother herself, doesn’t expect anything to still surprise him after twelve centuries of life. Finding a taunting note from an anonymous thief in his wardrobe is enough to rouse his curiosity, though. Enough to do the unthinkable – write back.
Then he finds out he’s been exchanging letters with a humble human. Worse, a human challenging him to his face.
A simple bargain is supposed to teach her a lesson. But the harder he tries to put her in her place, the harder she defies him… Soon their game sparks an unexpected romance – but will even love be enough when their loyalties collide?
Heart of Silk and Shadows is a prequel novel to the upcoming Fae Isles series. It can be read as a standalone, but the characters’ journey continues in the main series.
Note: this adult fae romance contains a generous dose of smouldering glances, passionate longing, and midnight meetings of the illicit type. It is recommended for a mature audience.
217 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 2, 2022
982 people are currently reading
10268 people want to read
About the author
Lisette Marshall
27 books1,592 followersLisette Marshall is a fantasy romance author, language nerd and cartography enthusiast. Having grown up on a steady diet of epic fantasy, regency romance and cosy mysteries, she now writes steamy, swoony stories with a generous sprinkle of murder.
Lisette lives in the Netherlands (yes, below sea level) with her boyfriend and the few house plants that miraculously survive her highly irregular watering regime. When she’s not reading or writing, she can usually be found drawing fantasy maps, baking and eating too many chocolate cookies, or geeking out over Ancient Greek.
To get in touch, visit www.lisettemarshall.com, or follow @authorlisettemarshall on Instagram, where she spends way too much time looking at pretty book pictures.
Lisette lives in the Netherlands (yes, below sea level) with her boyfriend and the few house plants that miraculously survive her highly irregular watering regime. When she’s not reading or writing, she can usually be found drawing fantasy maps, baking and eating too many chocolate cookies, or geeking out over Ancient Greek.
To get in touch, visit www.lisettemarshall.com, or follow @authorlisettemarshall on Instagram, where she spends way too much time looking at pretty book pictures.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 392 reviews
January 15, 2023
This is the prequel of the principal series Fae Isles .
But before the actual review a word of advice
⏩️Read this book AFTER the 2nd book " Lord of Gold and Glory ⏪️
So the order is
✅️A Court of Blood and Bindings
✅️Lord of Gold and Glory
✅️Heart os Silk and Shadows
I feel I wouldn't have enjoyed the LoGaG so much if I have read this one first.
I don't want to talk too much about the plot either to avoid ruining the surprise but the characters are just super lovable and the male character is 🛐🛐 . I loved the internal conflict the MMC had , the need to question himself all his decisions and believes until now and how this will impact in the overall story .
Like I always say, Lisette is the 👑 of grumpy sunshine trope in fantasy romance and in this case we have a grumpy heroine and a cute ( emo) male character .
He is always trying to do things right for her ( and miserably failling 🤣) and that induces some serious bloodthirsty thoughts in Allie . 🔪
Is a short book, maybe 200 pages with good steamy scenes a lot of tension and jokes .
We get to see Creon here and many other characters from the Fae isles and I was like 😍 YES PLEASE 😍
But like I say, please read this AFTER finishing 2nd book in the series.
But before the actual review a word of advice
⏩️Read this book AFTER the 2nd book " Lord of Gold and Glory ⏪️
So the order is
✅️A Court of Blood and Bindings
✅️Lord of Gold and Glory
✅️Heart os Silk and Shadows
I feel I wouldn't have enjoyed the LoGaG so much if I have read this one first.
I don't want to talk too much about the plot either to avoid ruining the surprise but the characters are just super lovable and the male character is 🛐🛐 . I loved the internal conflict the MMC had , the need to question himself all his decisions and believes until now and how this will impact in the overall story .
Like I always say, Lisette is the 👑 of grumpy sunshine trope in fantasy romance and in this case we have a grumpy heroine and a cute ( emo) male character .
He is always trying to do things right for her ( and miserably failling 🤣) and that induces some serious bloodthirsty thoughts in Allie . 🔪
Is a short book, maybe 200 pages with good steamy scenes a lot of tension and jokes .
We get to see Creon here and many other characters from the Fae isles and I was like 😍 YES PLEASE 😍
But like I say, please read this AFTER finishing 2nd book in the series.
March 10, 2023
The book offered little excitement and the magic system was perplexing, however, the exchange of letters and witty banter provided a redeeming aspect to the reading experience.
May 4, 2022
I had the privilege of receiving an ARC of this book and I finally got around to sinking my teething into it today.
I can honestly say that I was completely and utterly swept off my feet reading this spectacular book. I started it earlier this morning and COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN AT ALL! The last time I remember feeling this giddy and delighted reading a new series was ACOTAR which is so beloved a series that this is very, VERY high praise from me.
I loved the worldbuilding and lore in this new world, I loved the characters, and I AM DESPERATE FOR THE NEXT BOOK IN THE SERIES!
The romance is top tier and has me completely and utterly by the throat and there are future romantical happenings that I simply cannot wait to read. I’m so intrigued by certain male characters who shall remain nameless but already have me panting after them. I’m literally about to pre-order the next book because I need him and I need him now (she said, sounding desperate).
I don’t want to say any more about this particular story because it would be criminal to spoil it. Just feel my joy and enthusiasm and let that be all the encouragement you need to pick this EXCEPTIONAL book up for yourself.
This is the first book I have ever read by this author and I’m really looking forward to digging into her other work. I genuinely wish you all the success in the world with this book, it was an honour to read it!
I can honestly say that I was completely and utterly swept off my feet reading this spectacular book. I started it earlier this morning and COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN AT ALL! The last time I remember feeling this giddy and delighted reading a new series was ACOTAR which is so beloved a series that this is very, VERY high praise from me.
I loved the worldbuilding and lore in this new world, I loved the characters, and I AM DESPERATE FOR THE NEXT BOOK IN THE SERIES!
The romance is top tier and has me completely and utterly by the throat and there are future romantical happenings that I simply cannot wait to read. I’m so intrigued by certain male characters who shall remain nameless but already have me panting after them. I’m literally about to pre-order the next book because I need him and I need him now (she said, sounding desperate).
I don’t want to say any more about this particular story because it would be criminal to spoil it. Just feel my joy and enthusiasm and let that be all the encouragement you need to pick this EXCEPTIONAL book up for yourself.
This is the first book I have ever read by this author and I’m really looking forward to digging into her other work. I genuinely wish you all the success in the world with this book, it was an honour to read it!
January 7, 2025
[January 2025]REREAD NOTE: If you have issues with Maas' ACOTAR like I do, I highly recommend you try this series.
[March 2023]
Just like contemporary romances, there are A LOT of authors writing fantasy romance. I know, because I ready a lot of fantasy romance, and it can be hard to find the great authors amongst all the good authors. I would put Lisette Marshall among the great authors writing fantasy romance today.
Heart of Silk and Shadows is a quick 0.5 prequel to her main fae storyline that starts with Court of Blood and Bindings, but still packs all the deliciousness of Marshall’s trademark enemies to lovers plot trope. Sexy, swoony, adjective, adjective. Good stuff. On to CoSaS.
[March 2023]
Just like contemporary romances, there are A LOT of authors writing fantasy romance. I know, because I ready a lot of fantasy romance, and it can be hard to find the great authors amongst all the good authors. I would put Lisette Marshall among the great authors writing fantasy romance today.
Heart of Silk and Shadows is a quick 0.5 prequel to her main fae storyline that starts with Court of Blood and Bindings, but still packs all the deliciousness of Marshall’s trademark enemies to lovers plot trope. Sexy, swoony, adjective, adjective. Good stuff. On to CoSaS.
April 28, 2022
“Let me change the world for you.”
5 stars!
Wow. The first book in Lisette Marshall’s Fae Isles series, this is a full-length prequel novel that introduces us to a wonderfully creative fantasy world full of magic, politics and intrigue, and gives us a fantastically feisty, heartfelt, passionate and chemistry-filled forbidden romance that absolutely stole my heart.
Agenor is the Lord Protector of the Fae Isles and right-hand-man to the fae Mother. After 1,200 years of living - most of them at war - he is weary, and though he cherishes the peace he fought so hard for and works to ensure it continues, he is bored with the monotony and predictability of life. Until he receives an anonymous note from somebody who dared sneak into his room and steal one of his shirts. His shock is more amusing than aggravating and, thrilled to actually be feeling something again, he writes back.
Allie is a human servant of the Crimson Court. Taken into captive slavery as a teenager, she has endured a lot, and secretly does what she can to protect her people from the hateful fae. Now she’s on a mission to protect her sister, and the cunning young woman has a plan which involves Agenor. She didn’t expect him to play along, and she certainly didn’t expect to enjoy their secret letter exchanges as she continues her thievery.
It’s a fun back-and-forth until Agenor discovers that the woman (for he has deduced that he is writing to a woman) is a human. He is stunned that one of the ‘lesser’ creatures of his world has such wit and intelligence, and has engaged him so fully. When he confronts her, their feisty banter switches effortlessly from written to verbal, and when Agenor tries to prove his dominance by making a bargain, they are bound together by clever magic that opens his eyes to the realities of Allie’s life and the suffering of the humans under fae control.
The chemistry between Agenor and Allie is absolutely fantastic. You can feel it from the very beginning, and the more they truly open up to each other, their feelings for each other deepen, and the sexual tension and their feelings of longing for each other grow in intensity to a point where I was catching my breath at every almost moment, desperate for something to happen.
I love these characters! I love Allie’s strength and resilience after all that she has endured and the hopeless situation that she is in, her wit and snark are so entertaining, and her fierce intelligence and determination to do whatever she can to help her people is fantastic. And Agenor (no surprise) stole my heart! He’s a total badass of course, one of the most powerful of his kind, but what I loved most about him was his openness – the way he opened himself up to Allie, heard her truth and his reaction to it, and the way he accepted Allie and all that she came to mean to him. I could feel all that he was feeling, and I loved it!
The romance builds beautifully. It’s honest, intense, passionate and still playful, and I was completely swept up in the beautiful love story.
But their world is a complicated one, with a strong (horribly unfair) political system, and Agenor and Allie are put to the test with their conflicting opinions on how to navigate it all. My mind was racing as I tried to figure out how the story would play out, and in emotional scenes that had me holding my breath and my heart pounding, the pieces are set in place for the rest of the series (though rest assured that this book does have a happy-for-now ending).
I loved everything about this book. The world is well-developed and intriguing, the unjust class system provides a lot of scope for necessary change, and Marshall does a great job of bringing so much emotion to it all. The characters are fantastic, and I’m desperate to know more about some of those side characters! This book sets the scene for what has the potential to become an amazing series, and I cannot wait to continue on with Court of Blood and Bindings.
5 stars!
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
5 stars!
Wow. The first book in Lisette Marshall’s Fae Isles series, this is a full-length prequel novel that introduces us to a wonderfully creative fantasy world full of magic, politics and intrigue, and gives us a fantastically feisty, heartfelt, passionate and chemistry-filled forbidden romance that absolutely stole my heart.
Agenor is the Lord Protector of the Fae Isles and right-hand-man to the fae Mother. After 1,200 years of living - most of them at war - he is weary, and though he cherishes the peace he fought so hard for and works to ensure it continues, he is bored with the monotony and predictability of life. Until he receives an anonymous note from somebody who dared sneak into his room and steal one of his shirts. His shock is more amusing than aggravating and, thrilled to actually be feeling something again, he writes back.
Allie is a human servant of the Crimson Court. Taken into captive slavery as a teenager, she has endured a lot, and secretly does what she can to protect her people from the hateful fae. Now she’s on a mission to protect her sister, and the cunning young woman has a plan which involves Agenor. She didn’t expect him to play along, and she certainly didn’t expect to enjoy their secret letter exchanges as she continues her thievery.
It’s a fun back-and-forth until Agenor discovers that the woman (for he has deduced that he is writing to a woman) is a human. He is stunned that one of the ‘lesser’ creatures of his world has such wit and intelligence, and has engaged him so fully. When he confronts her, their feisty banter switches effortlessly from written to verbal, and when Agenor tries to prove his dominance by making a bargain, they are bound together by clever magic that opens his eyes to the realities of Allie’s life and the suffering of the humans under fae control.
“Everything you say – every single thing you say – turns my mind inside out all over again, do you realise that? I thought I’d seen it all, and now you’re telling me the world I thought I knew never even existed … You change everything,” he whispered. “And I can’t stop revelling in it – can’t stop craving it. I can’t bear the thought of going back again.”
The chemistry between Agenor and Allie is absolutely fantastic. You can feel it from the very beginning, and the more they truly open up to each other, their feelings for each other deepen, and the sexual tension and their feelings of longing for each other grow in intensity to a point where I was catching my breath at every almost moment, desperate for something to happen.
“Be honest with me, little thief. Do you really loathe me as much as you’re telling me you do?”
“Let me go.”
“I wish I could.” A hoarse growl, so close to her face, sounding nothing like the sophisticated fae lord of mere minutes ago. “I wish you weren’t ensnaring me the way you do.”
I love these characters! I love Allie’s strength and resilience after all that she has endured and the hopeless situation that she is in, her wit and snark are so entertaining, and her fierce intelligence and determination to do whatever she can to help her people is fantastic. And Agenor (no surprise) stole my heart! He’s a total badass of course, one of the most powerful of his kind, but what I loved most about him was his openness – the way he opened himself up to Allie, heard her truth and his reaction to it, and the way he accepted Allie and all that she came to mean to him. I could feel all that he was feeling, and I loved it!
“Allie,” he said hoarsely, “I’ll save the entire damn world tomorrow if you ask me to. Let me put you first for a few hours. Please.”
The romance builds beautifully. It’s honest, intense, passionate and still playful, and I was completely swept up in the beautiful love story.
“I’m falling in love with you. I’ve been falling in love with you since I found that first bloody letter, and I haven’t stopped plummeting since.”
But their world is a complicated one, with a strong (horribly unfair) political system, and Agenor and Allie are put to the test with their conflicting opinions on how to navigate it all. My mind was racing as I tried to figure out how the story would play out, and in emotional scenes that had me holding my breath and my heart pounding, the pieces are set in place for the rest of the series (though rest assured that this book does have a happy-for-now ending).
“Let me do better for you,” he whispered. “Let me change the world for you.”
I loved everything about this book. The world is well-developed and intriguing, the unjust class system provides a lot of scope for necessary change, and Marshall does a great job of bringing so much emotion to it all. The characters are fantastic, and I’m desperate to know more about some of those side characters! This book sets the scene for what has the potential to become an amazing series, and I cannot wait to continue on with Court of Blood and Bindings.
5 stars!
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
May 1, 2022
This book is currently free with the author's newsletter. I highly, highly recommend if you like:
Every time I think Lisette Marshall's books can't get any better, she blows me away.
Straight-laced Agenor can't help but be intrigued when letters start showing up in his wardrobe - and shirts disappearing. The last person he expected to be on the other end of the letters is feisty human Allie. They're on opposite ends of a strict political system and should have little in common.
Yet they can't ignore the passion brewing between them (as much as they try). They challenge each other at every turn and the resulting chemistry is fantastic.
The letters were HILARIOUS. I would probably read a book consisting solely of letters between Agenor and Allie.
I also love how the fae's magic works through colours (although I would have liked to have seen more examples of this). This series has the potential to be amazing, and I hope the unique magic system is fully utilized. I'm so looking forward to seeing more, but please don't let Agenor and Allie take a backseat in the upcoming books 🤞🤞.
✅ An easy read with fantasy elements
✅ Enemies to lovers romance
✅ Love interests exchanging letters
✅ Magic, politics and clever scheming
✅ Lots of angry sexual tension and steam
Every time I think Lisette Marshall's books can't get any better, she blows me away.
Straight-laced Agenor can't help but be intrigued when letters start showing up in his wardrobe - and shirts disappearing. The last person he expected to be on the other end of the letters is feisty human Allie. They're on opposite ends of a strict political system and should have little in common.
Yet they can't ignore the passion brewing between them (as much as they try). They challenge each other at every turn and the resulting chemistry is fantastic.
"Surprise me. Scandalise me. But for the love of the gods, please don't ever surrender to me." 😍😍
The letters were HILARIOUS. I would probably read a book consisting solely of letters between Agenor and Allie.
I also love how the fae's magic works through colours (although I would have liked to have seen more examples of this). This series has the potential to be amazing, and I hope the unique magic system is fully utilized. I'm so looking forward to seeing more, but please don't let Agenor and Allie take a backseat in the upcoming books 🤞🤞.
"She was movement in a world of stillness. She was a song breaking the lethal silence of his existence. Even bewildered and frustrated, he felt alive for the first time in decades - like perhaps his time wasn't over yet." ❤️❤️
September 8, 2023
4.5 stars
Why I loved this so much, I do not know.
But this was perfection. I loved the world, loved the politics, loved the characters, loved the setting. All of it was so well-done!
Why I loved this so much, I do not know.
But this was perfection. I loved the world, loved the politics, loved the characters, loved the setting. All of it was so well-done!
May 2, 2022
4.5
Thank you so much to the author Lisette Marshall for providing me with an eARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the opinions are my own.
This is a fantastic prequel novella. I thoroughly enjoy every second of it. I think this is the perfect introduction to the world before starting the main series due to its balance between showing you enough of the world and the magic and leaving you wanting for more.
We have:
A very bored, very powerfull thousand year old Fae Lord.
"He wondered if they ever grew bored with it. Sitting in this hall with its bone-covered walls and its bone-covered thone, playing High Ladyto an empire that seemed stuck in the same everlasting circles. A senseless revolt here, a fae feud there. The same dances over and over and over again."
An unlikely and very strong 24 year old thief.
"Everything I steal from you is stolen for love. Make of that what you want."
A magic system based on colour and bindings.
"Red for destruction."
A ruthless ruling Queen with two sisters's souls in one body.
"Her son... His lips didn't move.... she has taken his voice from him decades ago."
A world that conquered by force and made anew by the fae but also one that's been neglected by them.
"In peace- holding lavish banquets, wasting the food for which others may have paid with their life."
Both characters help you understand the world and particulary you can see how something as peace is seen from each side. Peace is for the victors the submission or the enslavement of the ones beneath them, nothing more or less.
The romance is absolutely a joy to read and the banter made me giggle more than once while reading it. The sex scenes are absolutely delightful.
As there's not an antagonist, the conflicts were developed throughout their every day life. I really enjoyed how the main characters solved their problems together. Even though they fought with each other, they loved one another and tried to solve wherever the problem they face together.
I have no doubt that the main series is going to be absolutely amazing.
As a final note, if you subscribe to the author's newsletter you get this novella as a welcome gift.
Thank you so much to the author Lisette Marshall for providing me with an eARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the opinions are my own.
This is a fantastic prequel novella. I thoroughly enjoy every second of it. I think this is the perfect introduction to the world before starting the main series due to its balance between showing you enough of the world and the magic and leaving you wanting for more.
We have:
A very bored, very powerfull thousand year old Fae Lord.
"He wondered if they ever grew bored with it. Sitting in this hall with its bone-covered walls and its bone-covered thone, playing High Ladyto an empire that seemed stuck in the same everlasting circles. A senseless revolt here, a fae feud there. The same dances over and over and over again."
An unlikely and very strong 24 year old thief.
"Everything I steal from you is stolen for love. Make of that what you want."
A magic system based on colour and bindings.
"Red for destruction."
A ruthless ruling Queen with two sisters's souls in one body.
"Her son... His lips didn't move.... she has taken his voice from him decades ago."
A world that conquered by force and made anew by the fae but also one that's been neglected by them.
"In peace- holding lavish banquets, wasting the food for which others may have paid with their life."
Both characters help you understand the world and particulary you can see how something as peace is seen from each side. Peace is for the victors the submission or the enslavement of the ones beneath them, nothing more or less.
The romance is absolutely a joy to read and the banter made me giggle more than once while reading it. The sex scenes are absolutely delightful.
As there's not an antagonist, the conflicts were developed throughout their every day life. I really enjoyed how the main characters solved their problems together. Even though they fought with each other, they loved one another and tried to solve wherever the problem they face together.
I have no doubt that the main series is going to be absolutely amazing.
As a final note, if you subscribe to the author's newsletter you get this novella as a welcome gift.
August 6, 2023
✨️ 3 Stars for the decent writing, at least!🌷
I can't say I was left feeling particularly impressed and I do of course, sympathise that it is a short story and in a way, there really isn't a great deal to it.
As the story progressed, I was the left with the sour impression that it read like a constant berating towards the love interest, and the once admirable FML became almost insufferable.
The best way I can describe this dynamic is like an angry and oppressed victim, versus the bemused perpetrator. Some conversations and moments were justified, but the more the story progressed, the less it all made sense for such a small story.
In my opinion, it took away from the beauty of the romance that was blossoming almost naturally until the halfway mark. The whole sudden change of heart situation deserves a long and drawn out eye roll... truly 🙄
BUT, unlike many other kindle unlimited stories, this is one of the few that is written well, so I feel I can't be too stingy with my rating.
Anyway, happy reading and love to you all! ♡
I can't say I was left feeling particularly impressed and I do of course, sympathise that it is a short story and in a way, there really isn't a great deal to it.
As the story progressed, I was the left with the sour impression that it read like a constant berating towards the love interest, and the once admirable FML became almost insufferable.
The best way I can describe this dynamic is like an angry and oppressed victim, versus the bemused perpetrator. Some conversations and moments were justified, but the more the story progressed, the less it all made sense for such a small story.
In my opinion, it took away from the beauty of the romance that was blossoming almost naturally until the halfway mark. The whole sudden change of heart situation deserves a long and drawn out eye roll... truly 🙄
BUT, unlike many other kindle unlimited stories, this is one of the few that is written well, so I feel I can't be too stingy with my rating.
Anyway, happy reading and love to you all! ♡
April 23, 2023
Stars: ⭐⭐⭐⭐💫 4.5, rounded to 5
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶🌶
This was my first book in the Fae Isles series. Personally, I would recommend reading this book before the rest of the series as the events here lead to the series proper. But, if you have already read books 1 and 2, or you don't want any spoilers for those books, you can certainly read Heart of Silk and Shadows between books 2 and 3.
This is a dual POV book, and I really enjoyed swapping between Allie, a human woman who'll do anything for those around her and who is trying to do more than just survive, and Lord Agenor, an ancient fae who can only see the monotonous life he leads and a being who takes his luxurious life for granted. Talk about two completely different worlds colliding!
This book does contain one trope that I'm not typically a fan of, but I thought it was done well, and this (the spoilery bit) sets the scene for the rest of the series.
I loved the unique colour magic system- I don't think I've ever come across this particular magic system before, so that was quite exciting. I'm hoping we get more insight into the workings of this system in the following books.
The letters between the two MCs are so playful and taunting, they had me hanging on every word, thinking about all the delicious tension building...and they hadn't even met yet! These letters were one of my favourite parts of Heart of Silk and Shadows, and really where I first started connecting properly to the characters.
If you love fae/ human relationships, snarky and playful banter, two worlds collide, and unique magic, give Heart of Silk and Shadows a read!
☆ I recieved an ARC of this book from the author. All thoughts are my own honest opinions ☆
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶🌶
This was my first book in the Fae Isles series. Personally, I would recommend reading this book before the rest of the series as the events here lead to the series proper. But, if you have already read books 1 and 2, or you don't want any spoilers for those books, you can certainly read Heart of Silk and Shadows between books 2 and 3.
This is a dual POV book, and I really enjoyed swapping between Allie, a human woman who'll do anything for those around her and who is trying to do more than just survive, and Lord Agenor, an ancient fae who can only see the monotonous life he leads and a being who takes his luxurious life for granted. Talk about two completely different worlds colliding!
This book does contain one trope that I'm not typically a fan of, but I thought it was done well, and this (the spoilery bit) sets the scene for the rest of the series.
I loved the unique colour magic system- I don't think I've ever come across this particular magic system before, so that was quite exciting. I'm hoping we get more insight into the workings of this system in the following books.
The letters between the two MCs are so playful and taunting, they had me hanging on every word, thinking about all the delicious tension building...and they hadn't even met yet! These letters were one of my favourite parts of Heart of Silk and Shadows, and really where I first started connecting properly to the characters.
If you love fae/ human relationships, snarky and playful banter, two worlds collide, and unique magic, give Heart of Silk and Shadows a read!
☆ I recieved an ARC of this book from the author. All thoughts are my own honest opinions ☆
May 17, 2024
This is the story of - or Allie and Agenor. I did not know how much I needed this little novella between the more story-dense and character-rich books of the series, but it was perfect. Highly recommend it in between books 2 and 3.
This is the story of the Lord Protector of the Fae Isles. He's bored of life until a clothes thief starts to leave him snarky, flirty messages in his closet. The two of them form a bond in the form of letters; a trope that makes me weak in the knees.
I really had a great time and it made the moments in the larger series hit even harder for me.
This is the story of the Lord Protector of the Fae Isles. He's bored of life until a clothes thief starts to leave him snarky, flirty messages in his closet. The two of them form a bond in the form of letters; a trope that makes me weak in the knees.
I really had a great time and it made the moments in the larger series hit even harder for me.
October 24, 2025
Short and sweet! Can’t wait to see more of this couple and how their story weaves into the main plot!
August 6, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5
𝙂𝙚𝙣𝙧𝙚: Fantasy series (Fae Isles #0.5)
𝙁𝙤𝙧𝙢𝙖𝙩: Physical book
𝙂𝙤𝙤𝙙𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙨 𝙍𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜: 4.23
𝙁𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙌𝙪𝙤𝙩𝙚:
“So yes, I want you. Desperately. But not constrained—never constrained. Surprise me. Scandalize me. But for the love of the gods, please don’t ever surrender to me.”
𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄 𝙇𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙙:
Fae + human romance
Connects to Court of Blood and Bindings
Forbidden romance
Love interests exchanging letters
Intelligent, headstrong FMC with a strong moral compass
Powerful, stubborn, broody MMC
𝙁𝙪𝙡𝙡 𝙍𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬:
I absolutely loved Court of Blood and Bindings, and was so happy to see the world expanded with this prequel story! While we get to see a little bit of our favorite fan male Creon, it really focuses on the story of Agenor and Allie. Agenor works for the cruel and evil High Lady, but is somewhat bored by the repetitiveness of an immortal existence. Allie is a human servant girl with a strong resentment of the controlling and brutal fae, and a desire to help the humans they rule over.
When Agenor finds anonymous letters from an intelligent, snarky, and argumentative individual, he is immediately intrigued and wants to find out more about them. Their correspondence turns into a tenuous friendship between two previous enemies, and it begins to change his perspective on the relationship between fae and humans. It's absolutely a slow burn romance with plenty of moments of tension and longing, and I love seeing Agenor with a softer side as a contrast to his broody, cold fae tendencies. I think Allie and Agenor are the perfect balance for each other (although there are definitely moments where I wanted to smack Agenor and tell him to stop being a dummy).
I recommend reading Court of Blood and Bindings before you read Heart of Silk and Shadow, because I think you will appreciate the ending of HOSAS more. This is a new fave series of mine and I’m really looking forward to the next book!!
𝙂𝙚𝙣𝙧𝙚: Fantasy series (Fae Isles #0.5)
𝙁𝙤𝙧𝙢𝙖𝙩: Physical book
𝙂𝙤𝙤𝙙𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙨 𝙍𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜: 4.23
𝙁𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙌𝙪𝙤𝙩𝙚:
“So yes, I want you. Desperately. But not constrained—never constrained. Surprise me. Scandalize me. But for the love of the gods, please don’t ever surrender to me.”
𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄 𝙇𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙙:
Fae + human romance
Connects to Court of Blood and Bindings
Forbidden romance
Love interests exchanging letters
Intelligent, headstrong FMC with a strong moral compass
Powerful, stubborn, broody MMC
𝙁𝙪𝙡𝙡 𝙍𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬:
I absolutely loved Court of Blood and Bindings, and was so happy to see the world expanded with this prequel story! While we get to see a little bit of our favorite fan male Creon, it really focuses on the story of Agenor and Allie. Agenor works for the cruel and evil High Lady, but is somewhat bored by the repetitiveness of an immortal existence. Allie is a human servant girl with a strong resentment of the controlling and brutal fae, and a desire to help the humans they rule over.
When Agenor finds anonymous letters from an intelligent, snarky, and argumentative individual, he is immediately intrigued and wants to find out more about them. Their correspondence turns into a tenuous friendship between two previous enemies, and it begins to change his perspective on the relationship between fae and humans. It's absolutely a slow burn romance with plenty of moments of tension and longing, and I love seeing Agenor with a softer side as a contrast to his broody, cold fae tendencies. I think Allie and Agenor are the perfect balance for each other (although there are definitely moments where I wanted to smack Agenor and tell him to stop being a dummy).
I recommend reading Court of Blood and Bindings before you read Heart of Silk and Shadow, because I think you will appreciate the ending of HOSAS more. This is a new fave series of mine and I’m really looking forward to the next book!!
November 16, 2022
The most beautiful grovel ever.... Agenor, Lord Protector, forever!
👶 ~ Adult fantast romance
🌶 ~ Our Lord is quite thirsty after twelve hundred and thirty-three years 🥵 and our little human is demanding to live in the moment 🥵 the tension and steam... uff
⚔ ~ We always talk about hundreds of year old Fae, but have we been inside their mind and see it change because an intelligent and resourceful little human woman surprises and steals from him at every instant? Well, now you do 😏 you're welcome
This is a prequel that gives you a taste of Lisette Marshall’s writing and sets the series in motion 🥰 Beautiful!
👑 ~ Allie is a beautiful soul and so freaking smart! Intelligence is steaming hot trope! What she manages Egenor to do without him realizing is amazing!
The way he challenged everything he believed for her... so freaking beautiful 😭 his grovel, his words and actions are everything! Bravo!
🌎 ~ The Mother 😰 the empress, will take down anyone that defies her (
spoiler: she is scary!!!) The primal colors system magic, is a delight to picture and imagine ❤️
📖 ~ The writing is amazing! ❤️The banter! ❤️The tension! ❤️I love Lisette Marshall's writing
Lows ~ Need to find out more!
👶 ~ Adult fantast romance
🌶 ~ Our Lord is quite thirsty after twelve hundred and thirty-three years 🥵 and our little human is demanding to live in the moment 🥵 the tension and steam... uff
⚔ ~ We always talk about hundreds of year old Fae, but have we been inside their mind and see it change because an intelligent and resourceful little human woman surprises and steals from him at every instant? Well, now you do 😏 you're welcome
This is a prequel that gives you a taste of Lisette Marshall’s writing and sets the series in motion 🥰 Beautiful!
👑 ~ Allie is a beautiful soul and so freaking smart! Intelligence is steaming hot trope! What she manages Egenor to do without him realizing is amazing!
The way he challenged everything he believed for her... so freaking beautiful 😭 his grovel, his words and actions are everything! Bravo!
🌎 ~ The Mother 😰 the empress, will take down anyone that defies her (
spoiler: she is scary!!!) The primal colors system magic, is a delight to picture and imagine ❤️
📖 ~ The writing is amazing! ❤️The banter! ❤️The tension! ❤️I love Lisette Marshall's writing
Lows ~ Need to find out more!
November 26, 2022
Honestly, I am just such a sap for any romances that involve letter-writing! I really fell for both the heroine and the hero in Chapter 2 when they begin their anonymous battle-of-wits-through-witty-letters, and I enjoyed the rest of this fun, steamy fantasy romance so much. There are some big questions raised about what kind of ignorance-through-privilege can or can't be forgiven in a toxic empire, but also there are just two fabulous characters who enjoy each other a lot.
Honestly, the only reason it's not a 5-star review for me is that the ending is a little more bittersweet than I totally prefer in a romance - but that is a subjective and personal issue, and as these characters will be reappearing in the main series (this novel is a prequel with a different hero and heroine than the main series), I may change my mind after seeing what happens to them in the other books!
I snapped this one up as a freebie when I signed up to Lisette Marshall's newsletter (and it's also available for free as part of this multi-author fantasy romance giveaway until the end of November), but I will definitely be trying the not-free main series it's attached to!
Honestly, the only reason it's not a 5-star review for me is that the ending is a little more bittersweet than I totally prefer in a romance - but that is a subjective and personal issue, and as these characters will be reappearing in the main series (this novel is a prequel with a different hero and heroine than the main series), I may change my mind after seeing what happens to them in the other books!
I snapped this one up as a freebie when I signed up to Lisette Marshall's newsletter (and it's also available for free as part of this multi-author fantasy romance giveaway until the end of November), but I will definitely be trying the not-free main series it's attached to!
April 27, 2022
*Thank you to the author for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.*
So I had a bit of a hard time at the very beginning - I know its a new world, with new people, places, etc., but I kind of felt lost at first. But story does pick up and starts moving along well. The steamy scenes were so well-written - progressed in a way that you are able to feel what the characters are feeling, and those are the types of scenes I love to read. Storyline is really good and I am very intrigued to continue reading about these characters. I found that I really can't wait to read Creon's story. =) Looking forward to that!
Overall, this was an enjoyable book in a series that I will continue to read.
So I had a bit of a hard time at the very beginning - I know its a new world, with new people, places, etc., but I kind of felt lost at first. But story does pick up and starts moving along well. The steamy scenes were so well-written - progressed in a way that you are able to feel what the characters are feeling, and those are the types of scenes I love to read. Storyline is really good and I am very intrigued to continue reading about these characters. I found that I really can't wait to read Creon's story. =) Looking forward to that!
Overall, this was an enjoyable book in a series that I will continue to read.
August 5, 2025
““But if you know of any names with meanings such as “great destroyer of empires” or “blessed puncher of noses” AHHHHHHHHH the foreshadowing 😩🥹
Seeing Creon from Agenors POV makes it so much funnier how he ends up with his daughter lmaooo
I wish I read this first so I got that glimpse of Creon before reading A Court of Blood and Bindings cause it def would have made it like OMG the whole time. He’s still bae even when he’s eternally bored and arrogant.
Seeing Creon from Agenors POV makes it so much funnier how he ends up with his daughter lmaooo
I wish I read this first so I got that glimpse of Creon before reading A Court of Blood and Bindings cause it def would have made it like OMG the whole time. He’s still bae even when he’s eternally bored and arrogant.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 14, 2024
It’s no Six Scorched Roses but it does the trick I guess. Love a “young average mortal girl and a 1200 year old beautiful fae male” love story.
August 16, 2023
When I started this series I really didn’t expect to fall head over heels for it. I loved getting A+A’s story. I didn’t read this in order, which is honestly not a big deal, but I think it really added depth to the series. Can’t wait for book 4. Read this series you won’t be disappointed. The world building and the magic are top tier and unique
November 11, 2023
Lord Agenor is a 1,200 year old powerful fae and Protector of the Crimson Court. Allie is a human being who has been essentially indentured as a laborer on an island ruled by fae. To save her younger sister, Allie begins stealing clothes from Lord Agenor’s wardrobe in a cunning plot to force him into action. She leaves a snarky note for him to find and thus begins a relationship between lord and thief through letters left behind. Once the two finally meet in-person, Allie and Agenor strike a bargain through a competition to prove whether humans or fae are better at accomplishing tasks.
I haven’t read much fantasy romance, but this book makes me want to dive into more! The world-building is interesting but not too dense; I didn’t feel like it took half the book to describe the setting, and is instead sprinkled organically throughout the plot. I am a sucker for enemies-to-lovers and Allie and Agenor’s chemistry absolutely fulfilled me. I adore Allie because she is complicated in the best way–confident, wise, and a woman of action, but still reckless and a little stubborn. Agenor is commanding, privileged, and experienced, but also receptive to different opinions. It didn’t take long for him to admit he was wrong multiple times, and I love how he immediately apologized for his actions and developed a different perspective. Allie and Agenor’s initial opinions of each other remind me so much of Pride & Prejudice. Just like Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy, Allie finds Agenor to be arrogant and aloof at first because he’s wealthy and in a position of power. Agenor assumes Allie is uninformed and immature because she is poor and only 24. All of their preconceived notions are eventually proven false as the two fall in love. I can’t wait for Creon’s book! A round of applause to Ms. Marshall for writing a character who is mute but can somehow express so many complex emotions.
I haven’t read much fantasy romance, but this book makes me want to dive into more! The world-building is interesting but not too dense; I didn’t feel like it took half the book to describe the setting, and is instead sprinkled organically throughout the plot. I am a sucker for enemies-to-lovers and Allie and Agenor’s chemistry absolutely fulfilled me. I adore Allie because she is complicated in the best way–confident, wise, and a woman of action, but still reckless and a little stubborn. Agenor is commanding, privileged, and experienced, but also receptive to different opinions. It didn’t take long for him to admit he was wrong multiple times, and I love how he immediately apologized for his actions and developed a different perspective. Allie and Agenor’s initial opinions of each other remind me so much of Pride & Prejudice. Just like Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy, Allie finds Agenor to be arrogant and aloof at first because he’s wealthy and in a position of power. Agenor assumes Allie is uninformed and immature because she is poor and only 24. All of their preconceived notions are eventually proven false as the two fall in love. I can’t wait for Creon’s book! A round of applause to Ms. Marshall for writing a character who is mute but can somehow express so many complex emotions.
April 25, 2022
⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
🌶️/5
«She was a song breaking that deep, lethal silence of his existence.»
This is Agenor and Allie's story, told in the prequel novel to the Fae Isles saga(which I honestly can't wait to read!).
I really enjoyed the banter and the bikering through letters and scribbled parchments. Hands down my favourite part was the witty openings and closing of each message, mockingly romantic and inventive!😅🤣
Romance aside, the magic system created by the author is truly unique! Even if I did wish for a more thoroughly explained world building (hence the 4 stars and not 5), the colour-based magic made me fall in love with it, and left me wanting for more(which I'm hoping to find in the sequels).
All in all, I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone who loves strong female main characters and broodingly handsome (and of respectable age) Fae Lords. You don't want to miss out on this gem of a story💎.
🌶️/5
«She was a song breaking that deep, lethal silence of his existence.»
This is Agenor and Allie's story, told in the prequel novel to the Fae Isles saga(which I honestly can't wait to read!).
I really enjoyed the banter and the bikering through letters and scribbled parchments. Hands down my favourite part was the witty openings and closing of each message, mockingly romantic and inventive!😅🤣
Romance aside, the magic system created by the author is truly unique! Even if I did wish for a more thoroughly explained world building (hence the 4 stars and not 5), the colour-based magic made me fall in love with it, and left me wanting for more(which I'm hoping to find in the sequels).
All in all, I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone who loves strong female main characters and broodingly handsome (and of respectable age) Fae Lords. You don't want to miss out on this gem of a story💎.
June 6, 2022
So I actually would have given this book a 3.5 or even a 4 rating, if it wasn't for the pregnancy trope. Absolutely hate it when authors throw this in with no warning. I realize (now) this is setting it up for the next book in the series, but honestly, it was just ridiculous. The main character decides to keep the baby even though there is an absolute guarantee it will be enslaved unless on the slim chance they can get it off the island. I don't know about anyone else, but that is the most selfish thing I have ever read. The romance itself felt flat halfway through and pretty rushed.
I wish authors would give a content warning about this so readers can avoid it.
Super disappointed since I've read and enjoyed the author's previous books. Don't know if I will continue reading this series if it ends up following this pattern.
I wish authors would give a content warning about this so readers can avoid it.
Super disappointed since I've read and enjoyed the author's previous books. Don't know if I will continue reading this series if it ends up following this pattern.
February 18, 2023
Allie is such a fiery heroine, mother of badass (I guess literally 😅). Is it possible to NOT love this woman? I'm crushing hard on her.
Heavy kind of age gap (24 years vs. 1200 years but Agenor is fae and we love them way too much to judge, don't we?)
Looking forward to the next books. I'm really glad for reading the pre story before.
Allie and Agenor make a fine couple.
Thank you for trusting me with this ARC and please forgive me for taking SO long this time.
Heavy kind of age gap (24 years vs. 1200 years but Agenor is fae and we love them way too much to judge, don't we?)
Looking forward to the next books. I'm really glad for reading the pre story before.
Allie and Agenor make a fine couple.
Thank you for trusting me with this ARC and please forgive me for taking SO long this time.
April 29, 2022
Heart of Silk and Shadows by Lisette Marshall
4 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Stealing from a fae lord is a desperate plan…
As a human servant at the Crimson Court, Allie knows better than to anger the fae. Cunning and politics are her tools of survival. But when an unwanted suitor threatens her younger sister, Allie can think of only one way to protect her family…
Steal from the fae.
Agenor, Lord Protector of the Fae Isles and right hand of the Mother herself, doesn’t expect anything to still surprise him after twelve centuries of life. Finding a taunting note from an anonymous thief in his wardrobe is enough to rouse his curiosity, though. Enough to do the unthinkable – write back.
Then he finds out he’s been exchanging letters with a humble human. Worse, a human challenging him to his face.
A simple bargain is supposed to teach her a lesson. But the harder he tries to put her in her place, the harder she defies him… Soon their game sparks an unexpected romance – but will even love be enough when their loyalties collide?
Heart of Silk and Shadows is a prequel novel to the upcoming Fae Isles series. It can be read as a standalone, but the characters’ journey continues in the main series.
Note: this adult fae romance contains a generous dose of smouldering glances, passionate longing, and midnight meetings of the illicit type. It is recommended for a mature audience.
EN: Thanks to the author who gave me an ARC before the book came out. This did not affect my opinion on the matter.
In this story, we follow Allie and Agenor as they bond to outdo each other, but in the process bond more than they think. I liked the author's writing style because I got into the story pretty quickly and just flew through the pages. We follow both perspectives told from the third point of view. I have to admit I was a bit confused at first but I got into the story pretty quickly once the two wrote to each other. Especially when the two got to know each other I liked it very much I liked this development in the book very much. Allie is an interesting character I liked how she tries to make the best of her situation and fight for what is right. Agenor surprised me as I particularly liked his development throughout the book and how he tries to do everything right. While it was more romance focused here, we also had some politics, especially how everything works between fae and humans and how it all ties together. All in all I was really positively surprised because I liked the story I liked the romance story best I liked the sexual attractions between the two very much. And towards the end I was surprised again, somehow I didn't see it coming and found it very interesting. I'm ready for what the author has in store for this world and can't wait to read more.
DE: Danke an die Autorin die mir ein ARC gegeben hat bevor das Buch erscheint. Meine Meinung dazu wurde dadurch nicht beeinträchtigt.
In dieser Geschichte folgen wir Allie und Agenor die eine Bindung eingehen um sich gegenseitig auszustechen aber dabei binden sich mehr ineinander als sie denken. Ich mochte denn Schreibstil der Autorin da ich ziemlich schnell in die Geschichte gefunden habe und nur so durch die Seiten geflogen bin. Wir folgen beide Perspektiven aus der dritten Sicht erzählt. Ich muss zugeben der Anfang war ich etwas verwirrt aber ich hab ziemlich schnell in die Geschichte gefunden sobald die beiden sich gegenseitig Geschrieben haben. Besonders als die beiden sich kennenlernt hat mich sehr gut gefallen ich mochte diese Entwicklung im Buch sehr. Allie ist ein Interessanter Charakter ich mochte wie sie versucht das beste aus ihrer Situation zu machen und für das zu Kämpfen was richtig ist. Agenor hat mich überrascht da ich besonders seine Entwicklung im laufe des Buches mochte und wie er versucht alles richtig zu machen. Zwar war es hier mehr Romance Fokussiert aber dennoch hatten wir auch einiges an Politik besonders wie alles Funktioniert zwischen Fae und Menschen und wie alles zusammenhängt. Im ganzen war ich wirklich positiv überrascht da ich die Geschichte mochte am besten hat mir die Romance Story gefallen ich mochte die Sexuelle Anziehungen zwischen denn beiden sehr. Und gegen Ende wurde ich auch nochmal überrascht hab es irgendwie nicht kommen sehen und fand es ganz Interessant. Ich bin bereit was die Autorin noch bereit hält in dieser Welt und kann es kaum abwarten mehr zu lesen.
4 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Stealing from a fae lord is a desperate plan…
As a human servant at the Crimson Court, Allie knows better than to anger the fae. Cunning and politics are her tools of survival. But when an unwanted suitor threatens her younger sister, Allie can think of only one way to protect her family…
Steal from the fae.
Agenor, Lord Protector of the Fae Isles and right hand of the Mother herself, doesn’t expect anything to still surprise him after twelve centuries of life. Finding a taunting note from an anonymous thief in his wardrobe is enough to rouse his curiosity, though. Enough to do the unthinkable – write back.
Then he finds out he’s been exchanging letters with a humble human. Worse, a human challenging him to his face.
A simple bargain is supposed to teach her a lesson. But the harder he tries to put her in her place, the harder she defies him… Soon their game sparks an unexpected romance – but will even love be enough when their loyalties collide?
Heart of Silk and Shadows is a prequel novel to the upcoming Fae Isles series. It can be read as a standalone, but the characters’ journey continues in the main series.
Note: this adult fae romance contains a generous dose of smouldering glances, passionate longing, and midnight meetings of the illicit type. It is recommended for a mature audience.
EN: Thanks to the author who gave me an ARC before the book came out. This did not affect my opinion on the matter.
In this story, we follow Allie and Agenor as they bond to outdo each other, but in the process bond more than they think. I liked the author's writing style because I got into the story pretty quickly and just flew through the pages. We follow both perspectives told from the third point of view. I have to admit I was a bit confused at first but I got into the story pretty quickly once the two wrote to each other. Especially when the two got to know each other I liked it very much I liked this development in the book very much. Allie is an interesting character I liked how she tries to make the best of her situation and fight for what is right. Agenor surprised me as I particularly liked his development throughout the book and how he tries to do everything right. While it was more romance focused here, we also had some politics, especially how everything works between fae and humans and how it all ties together. All in all I was really positively surprised because I liked the story I liked the romance story best I liked the sexual attractions between the two very much. And towards the end I was surprised again, somehow I didn't see it coming and found it very interesting. I'm ready for what the author has in store for this world and can't wait to read more.
DE: Danke an die Autorin die mir ein ARC gegeben hat bevor das Buch erscheint. Meine Meinung dazu wurde dadurch nicht beeinträchtigt.
In dieser Geschichte folgen wir Allie und Agenor die eine Bindung eingehen um sich gegenseitig auszustechen aber dabei binden sich mehr ineinander als sie denken. Ich mochte denn Schreibstil der Autorin da ich ziemlich schnell in die Geschichte gefunden habe und nur so durch die Seiten geflogen bin. Wir folgen beide Perspektiven aus der dritten Sicht erzählt. Ich muss zugeben der Anfang war ich etwas verwirrt aber ich hab ziemlich schnell in die Geschichte gefunden sobald die beiden sich gegenseitig Geschrieben haben. Besonders als die beiden sich kennenlernt hat mich sehr gut gefallen ich mochte diese Entwicklung im Buch sehr. Allie ist ein Interessanter Charakter ich mochte wie sie versucht das beste aus ihrer Situation zu machen und für das zu Kämpfen was richtig ist. Agenor hat mich überrascht da ich besonders seine Entwicklung im laufe des Buches mochte und wie er versucht alles richtig zu machen. Zwar war es hier mehr Romance Fokussiert aber dennoch hatten wir auch einiges an Politik besonders wie alles Funktioniert zwischen Fae und Menschen und wie alles zusammenhängt. Im ganzen war ich wirklich positiv überrascht da ich die Geschichte mochte am besten hat mir die Romance Story gefallen ich mochte die Sexuelle Anziehungen zwischen denn beiden sehr. Und gegen Ende wurde ich auch nochmal überrascht hab es irgendwie nicht kommen sehen und fand es ganz Interessant. Ich bin bereit was die Autorin noch bereit hält in dieser Welt und kann es kaum abwarten mehr zu lesen.
April 27, 2022
I received an ARC copy for an honest review and a honest review is what you will get because OH. LORD.
I just have to start by saying I have read a good chunk of Marshall's books and this one was my FAVORITE. I can not tell you how excited I am for the first book in the Court of Blood and Bindings. Lets dig in shall we?
The story starts off really smooth, digging into a bit of the world behind the story. We meet the main characters, the court, and already by chapter two I'm hooked like a fish at the lake! Then it shifts into this cute little game between the MC's which I just adore! And then it shifts again into this fun, loving, flower that's sprouted a great relationship and then out of no where BAM! Something changes it all that leaves you hanging onto every word.
The MC's...
Aegnor and Allie are such great characters. Both equally feisty and equally loveable. A fae lord falls in love with a human and whatever that may mean for the next books has had my head reeling ever since I finished this story.. which, admittedly was only a few moments ago but I stand by what I said! LOL I loved the dynamic between the characters, the angst and snark was so so perfect. I love Marshall's ability to make two people fall in love so perfectly. Its not forced, or weird, or makes you roll your eyes. Its sincere and honest and SPICY! Oh, lords and ladies, the spice is *chef's kiss*.
Everything else...
The world building and plot itself were just as good. Maybe I'm still drunk off this entire story because I'm having a hard time finding the right words. I wish I could give this book more than 5 stars because I really would. 10/10 recommend. I can not wait for the next book.... yes, yes I know I said that but I really can't and I need it PRONTO!!! You hear me, Lisette? Gimme!!!!! LOL
Seriously though, job well done! :)
I just have to start by saying I have read a good chunk of Marshall's books and this one was my FAVORITE. I can not tell you how excited I am for the first book in the Court of Blood and Bindings. Lets dig in shall we?
The story starts off really smooth, digging into a bit of the world behind the story. We meet the main characters, the court, and already by chapter two I'm hooked like a fish at the lake! Then it shifts into this cute little game between the MC's which I just adore! And then it shifts again into this fun, loving, flower that's sprouted a great relationship and then out of no where BAM! Something changes it all that leaves you hanging onto every word.
The MC's...
Aegnor and Allie are such great characters. Both equally feisty and equally loveable. A fae lord falls in love with a human and whatever that may mean for the next books has had my head reeling ever since I finished this story.. which, admittedly was only a few moments ago but I stand by what I said! LOL I loved the dynamic between the characters, the angst and snark was so so perfect. I love Marshall's ability to make two people fall in love so perfectly. Its not forced, or weird, or makes you roll your eyes. Its sincere and honest and SPICY! Oh, lords and ladies, the spice is *chef's kiss*.
Everything else...
The world building and plot itself were just as good. Maybe I'm still drunk off this entire story because I'm having a hard time finding the right words. I wish I could give this book more than 5 stars because I really would. 10/10 recommend. I can not wait for the next book.... yes, yes I know I said that but I really can't and I need it PRONTO!!! You hear me, Lisette? Gimme!!!!! LOL
Seriously though, job well done! :)
May 3, 2022
Allie and Agenor’s love story is full of surprises and hardships. Allie is a lowly human servant while Agenor is an ancient fae lord. A relationship with unconventional beginnings (Allie is a thief after all) leads to an eye opening learning experience for Agenor. (He also falls in love - let’s say that’s a nice bonus!)
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I really liked Allie. She’s super smart and loves to challenge authority. She goes toe to toe with a fae lord that could easily end her life. She also fights for the things she believes in and takes care of her neighbors and friends.
Agenor is oblivious to the plight of humans. He just goes through the motions of life because of the perceived peace the fae achieved. Allie turns his world upside down and he begins to questions EVERYTHING. I really liked that even if he didn’t want to accept the things she was telling him, he would at least take the time to try to see things from a new perspective.
Allie and Agenor’s banter is on point, while their chemistry is off the charts. I thoroughly enjoyed their story and can’t wait to read the next book in this series!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I really liked Allie. She’s super smart and loves to challenge authority. She goes toe to toe with a fae lord that could easily end her life. She also fights for the things she believes in and takes care of her neighbors and friends.
Agenor is oblivious to the plight of humans. He just goes through the motions of life because of the perceived peace the fae achieved. Allie turns his world upside down and he begins to questions EVERYTHING. I really liked that even if he didn’t want to accept the things she was telling him, he would at least take the time to try to see things from a new perspective.
Allie and Agenor’s banter is on point, while their chemistry is off the charts. I thoroughly enjoyed their story and can’t wait to read the next book in this series!
July 25, 2024
5🌟 I STILL HAVE SO MANY QUESTIONS.
‘You change everything,’ he whispered. ‘And I can’t stop revelling in it–can’t stop craving it. I can’t bear the thought of going back again. So yes, I want you. Desperately. But not constrained–never constrained. Surprise me. Scandalise me. But for the love of the gods, please don’t ever surrender to me.’
I am officially in love with Em’s dad. Is that weird? In my opinion, this novella is best read between books 2 & 3!
ALSO, I feel the need to respond to all the low reviews for this novella because of the "surprise pregnancy trope". It's literally the story about the meeting and relationship between the main female character's PARENTS. HER PARENTS. THE PEOPLE WHO MADE HER. What do you mean surprise pregnancy??? What did you think this was??
‘You change everything,’ he whispered. ‘And I can’t stop revelling in it–can’t stop craving it. I can’t bear the thought of going back again. So yes, I want you. Desperately. But not constrained–never constrained. Surprise me. Scandalise me. But for the love of the gods, please don’t ever surrender to me.’
I am officially in love with Em’s dad. Is that weird? In my opinion, this novella is best read between books 2 & 3!
ALSO, I feel the need to respond to all the low reviews for this novella because of the "surprise pregnancy trope". It's literally the story about the meeting and relationship between the main female character's PARENTS. HER PARENTS. THE PEOPLE WHO MADE HER. What do you mean surprise pregnancy??? What did you think this was??
January 7, 2025
I chose to read the novellas after the main series, and honestly I am glad that I did. I absolutely adored reading more about Allie and Agenor. They are probably my favorite outside of Creon and Em. I do wish we got to read more about how Allie tricked the Mother into escaping toe Crimson Court, about how she got her baby out, and how Agenor got locked up…. That was pretty disappointing to not have in this story, since it was so briefly talked about in the main books. I decided to read these after the main series, because I wanted to know the characters before hearing about their back story. I feel like that gives me a little treat of more story of character that I loved. I also feel like if I had read this before reading the rest, it would have given one hell of a hint to one of the biggest plot twists in the series. So I STRONGLY suggest reading this after the rest of the series.
Now we just need more about Lyn and Tared! 🥲
Now we just need more about Lyn and Tared! 🥲
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 7, 2022
This is a solid 4.5 stars. I’ll admit I’m a little jaded because I just read another series that started with a novella “extended prologue” and I just don’t like it.
Having said that, this was a solid story. In a sea of cookie cutter fantasy romance books, this felt fresh. The magic system is intriguing. The characters have potential. All of it sets up a promising series. I knocked off a star for two reasons 1) this could have been a full length book. I know we will see this storyline later on but I feel like there was so much to expound on. I really don’t like this trend of half step books. So, that’s on me.
2) “the trope”. I won’t spoil it but I feel like it’s a lesser liked trope BUT at least it has a purpose here. Another reviewer spoiled it for me so I was mentally prepared but I still audibly groaned, again, that’s on me and my preferences.
I devoured book one so if you’re on the fence with book .5, hang in there. I will say Book 1 cuts off in the middle of the action so you may want to wait till November so you can read all three books back to back…but I’m sure there will be another cliffhanger then too.
I haven’t read anything else from this author but will probably explore other texts soon. Overall, fun, quick read. Happy to see where these characters intersect in the future.
Having said that, this was a solid story. In a sea of cookie cutter fantasy romance books, this felt fresh. The magic system is intriguing. The characters have potential. All of it sets up a promising series. I knocked off a star for two reasons 1) this could have been a full length book. I know we will see this storyline later on but I feel like there was so much to expound on. I really don’t like this trend of half step books. So, that’s on me.
2) “the trope”. I won’t spoil it but I feel like it’s a lesser liked trope BUT at least it has a purpose here. Another reviewer spoiled it for me so I was mentally prepared but I still audibly groaned, again, that’s on me and my preferences.
I devoured book one so if you’re on the fence with book .5, hang in there. I will say Book 1 cuts off in the middle of the action so you may want to wait till November so you can read all three books back to back…but I’m sure there will be another cliffhanger then too.
I haven’t read anything else from this author but will probably explore other texts soon. Overall, fun, quick read. Happy to see where these characters intersect in the future.
May 2, 2025
Heart of Silk and Shadows was such a pleasant surprise! It’s definitely a good time not a long time type story but this was a fantastic introduction to the Fae Isles and I’m excited to continue on in the series. (The audiobook narrators are both great but something is off with the overall quality, not sure I’d recommend it unless it was on sale).
MF, fae x human, sassy thief fmc, snake companions, epistolary, age gap, forbidden
She was movement in a world of stillness. She was a song breaking that deep, lethal silence of his existence. Even bewildered and frustrated, he felt alive for the first time in decades – like perhaps his time wasn’t over yet.
And he wanted her so much he could taste it.
MF, fae x human, sassy thief fmc, snake companions, epistolary, age gap, forbidden
She was movement in a world of stillness. She was a song breaking that deep, lethal silence of his existence. Even bewildered and frustrated, he felt alive for the first time in decades – like perhaps his time wasn’t over yet.
And he wanted her so much he could taste it.
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