What do you think?
Rate this book
The Death Whisperer #1
Of Rain and Wrath
I was born under the shadow of death, and my life since has been intricately entwined with that of the Grim Reaper.
They call me the Death Whisperer.
One hand fixes; the other breaks.
All I have ever known is a life full of pain and suffering, because what the legends don’t tell you about my power…is that there’s always a price.
And I’m the one who has to pay it.
My powers took my voice from me, and every day, I’m forced to experience unbearable agony. But my suffering doesn’t stop the fae of our realm from using me and my gifts, regardless of the consequences.
The princes who rule the various kingdoms are rumored to be cold-blooded and vicious, with no regard to fae life. They take what they want, when they want it, in the hopes of hurting each other in the process.
But what if the thing they all want…
Is me?
Some want to use me, others want to love me, and others still want to destroy me.
The problem is, there’s not a lot left of me to use, love, or destroy.
Death has whispered to me for years now, and I think it’s finally time I started listening.
This is book one of a series and will end on a minor cliffhanger. It is slow-burn and slow-build and has enemies-to-lovers themes (though no bullying). The men of this series are psychotic, possessive, and deranged antiheroes who take what they want, when they want it, regardless of the consequences. They care about absolutely no one...except for the FMC, though they'll have to work hard to win her over.
Triggers include—abuse, mentions of past sexual assault (but none in the present), and murder.
They call me the Death Whisperer.
One hand fixes; the other breaks.
All I have ever known is a life full of pain and suffering, because what the legends don’t tell you about my power…is that there’s always a price.
And I’m the one who has to pay it.
My powers took my voice from me, and every day, I’m forced to experience unbearable agony. But my suffering doesn’t stop the fae of our realm from using me and my gifts, regardless of the consequences.
The princes who rule the various kingdoms are rumored to be cold-blooded and vicious, with no regard to fae life. They take what they want, when they want it, in the hopes of hurting each other in the process.
But what if the thing they all want…
Is me?
Some want to use me, others want to love me, and others still want to destroy me.
The problem is, there’s not a lot left of me to use, love, or destroy.
Death has whispered to me for years now, and I think it’s finally time I started listening.
This is book one of a series and will end on a minor cliffhanger. It is slow-burn and slow-build and has enemies-to-lovers themes (though no bullying). The men of this series are psychotic, possessive, and deranged antiheroes who take what they want, when they want it, regardless of the consequences. They care about absolutely no one...except for the FMC, though they'll have to work hard to win her over.
Triggers include—abuse, mentions of past sexual assault (but none in the present), and murder.
307 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 6, 2022
950 people are currently reading
1792 people want to read
About the author
Katie May
99 books2,656 followersKatie May is a romance writer of numerous genres! She writes everything from horror to fantasy to contemporary. #whychoose
She has a gorgeous tabby cat who she adores, and she’s obsessed with coffee and horror movies.
She has a gorgeous tabby cat who she adores, and she’s obsessed with coffee and horror movies.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 179 reviews
May 18, 2022
yo what?
this book has POTENTIAL but it’s clearly banking on sequels because I don’t know what the hell is going on right now.
There are so many different components and parts —our main character being “special” and “chosen”, the different love interests, the black virus/plague, the wars between solar and season courts, the presence of giants and elves apparently (that was just thrown in randomly with a single mention) — that we don’t really know what is happening or where the book is going. Like there is a lot thrown in without any real substance or thought.
And not to be a little girl who loves comparisons, but damn an illiterate starving girl with a hard life who is stolen to a castle in spring court, sound familiar?
Anyway points for disability rep, main character is mute, one love interest is autistic (but I don’t understand why the author had to make him such an ass like chill).
I’m taking away points for the author’s inability to use the words “seconds, minutes, and hours” and the use of “ticks, orbits, and sets” instead. I mean what the fuck is that bestie. Why is this happening?? Just use real words not everything has to be changed in this fantasy world???
And finally, I’m sensing some sapphic tension, make it come true author, I beg you.
this book has POTENTIAL but it’s clearly banking on sequels because I don’t know what the hell is going on right now.
There are so many different components and parts —our main character being “special” and “chosen”, the different love interests, the black virus/plague, the wars between solar and season courts, the presence of giants and elves apparently (that was just thrown in randomly with a single mention) — that we don’t really know what is happening or where the book is going. Like there is a lot thrown in without any real substance or thought.
And not to be a little girl who loves comparisons, but damn an illiterate starving girl with a hard life who is stolen to a castle in spring court, sound familiar?
Anyway points for disability rep, main character is mute, one love interest is autistic (but I don’t understand why the author had to make him such an ass like chill).
I’m taking away points for the author’s inability to use the words “seconds, minutes, and hours” and the use of “ticks, orbits, and sets” instead. I mean what the fuck is that bestie. Why is this happening?? Just use real words not everything has to be changed in this fantasy world???
And finally, I’m sensing some sapphic tension, make it come true author, I beg you.
September 24, 2022
This is an interesting new series... but idk if I'll continue it.
It's hard to enjoy the book when you dislike 98% of the characters. (I only liked the MC, her Pacon Pal (Runt), Selena and that lady guard)
I liked the MC, Kassandra. Given her powers and her life experiences, I think she had a realistic take on life and her expectations of people matched that. I really liked that she didn't just swoon over the big guy who "saved" her. I loved that she recognized that, although, her circumstances had changed and had somewhat improved, she remained aware of the fact that a prison is a prison.
Blaze was an ass. This mofo was engaged and entertained the idea of having his mate while also fulfilling his marital obligations for the political association w/ the spring court.
No thank you, sir.
The other mates (or what I assume will be her mates) are equally as bad. Technically, she only has significant interaction w/ two of them and the others who have chapters (and therefore I'm assuming will eventually become a part of her harem) are non factors in this book.
Also, clearly this a slow build RH. FYI.
Anyhoo.
So, one thing about this that I thought was weird was the changing of time..
For example
Tick is a second
Orbit is a minute
and Set is an hour.
It was confusing AF. I couldn't keep them straight. The MC kept referring to "sets" and I'd have to go back to the beginning to check to make sure I was getting it right OR I'd totally forget and would be confuzzled cause she's talking about sets and I'm like "WTF?"
Also... why are they still called days if all the things that make up a day are called ticks, orbits, and sets? AND, wouldn't an orbit be a day cause you know.. the earth spins on an orbit over the course of 24 hours?
What I'm getting at here, is there's too much thinking all because instead of just saying seconds, minutes, and hours, the author introduces the concept of ticks, sets, and orbits.
It was... unnecessary.
#EndRant
So, yeah.
I'm done complaining.
I did like the concept of the MC having a hand that heals and a hand that kills. That's different. Haven't seen that in any of the millions of millions (not really millions... OBVIOUSLY) books I've read, so I can appreciate that.
I also liked that we got to see her use her powers throughout the book. We weren't just told "hey, the main characters is super powerful, but she can't use her powers because..."
I just wish the MMCs weren't a bunch of turds.
This is an interesting new series.
Will I continue it? Erm.. probably not.
Would I recommend it? Sure. If you like fantasy, asshole heroes, and a heroine who doesn't make you questions how they survived as long as they did.. you'll enjoy this.
It's hard to enjoy the book when you dislike 98% of the characters. (I only liked the MC, her Pacon Pal (Runt), Selena and that lady guard)
I liked the MC, Kassandra. Given her powers and her life experiences, I think she had a realistic take on life and her expectations of people matched that. I really liked that she didn't just swoon over the big guy who "saved" her. I loved that she recognized that, although, her circumstances had changed and had somewhat improved, she remained aware of the fact that a prison is a prison.
Blaze was an ass. This mofo was engaged and entertained the idea of having his mate while also fulfilling his marital obligations for the political association w/ the spring court.
No thank you, sir.
The other mates (or what I assume will be her mates) are equally as bad. Technically, she only has significant interaction w/ two of them and the others who have chapters (and therefore I'm assuming will eventually become a part of her harem) are non factors in this book.
Also, clearly this a slow build RH. FYI.
Anyhoo.
So, one thing about this that I thought was weird was the changing of time..
For example
Tick is a second
Orbit is a minute
and Set is an hour.
It was confusing AF. I couldn't keep them straight. The MC kept referring to "sets" and I'd have to go back to the beginning to check to make sure I was getting it right OR I'd totally forget and would be confuzzled cause she's talking about sets and I'm like "WTF?"
Also... why are they still called days if all the things that make up a day are called ticks, orbits, and sets? AND, wouldn't an orbit be a day cause you know.. the earth spins on an orbit over the course of 24 hours?
What I'm getting at here, is there's too much thinking all because instead of just saying seconds, minutes, and hours, the author introduces the concept of ticks, sets, and orbits.
It was... unnecessary.
#EndRant
So, yeah.
I'm done complaining.
I did like the concept of the MC having a hand that heals and a hand that kills. That's different. Haven't seen that in any of the millions of millions (not really millions... OBVIOUSLY) books I've read, so I can appreciate that.
I also liked that we got to see her use her powers throughout the book. We weren't just told "hey, the main characters is super powerful, but she can't use her powers because..."
I just wish the MMCs weren't a bunch of turds.
This is an interesting new series.
Will I continue it? Erm.. probably not.
Would I recommend it? Sure. If you like fantasy, asshole heroes, and a heroine who doesn't make you questions how they survived as long as they did.. you'll enjoy this.
March 31, 2023
Representation: Heroine is unable to speak and uses sign-language to communicate, One of the Heroes is coded as autistic
Overall: 4-stars
Safety Rating: Safe with Exceptions
Possible Triggers: Yes
Ending:
Overall: 4-stars
Safety Rating: Safe with Exceptions
Possible Triggers: Yes
Ending:
July 12, 2024
Spice: 0/5 (just threats of sexual violence against the FMC from someone in her harem)
World building: 2/5
Strength (inner or outer) of the FMC: 1/5
Uniqueness of men: 2/5
Here are the nicknames for the FMC that are (over) used in this book: little dove; little beast; my pet (or just pet); little girl; sunshine; mouse; baby bird; baby.
92% - we get the first on page example of sexual abuse via the MMC in order to make the FMC capitulate to his commands.
The men are just manwhores; the FMC makes such a DUMB decision at the end which changes the course of the next book. I felt like the author didn't know how to write a pivotal change in the story line w.o the FMC being dumb.
There is sooooo much repetition of information in this story. How many times are we told that people in this world only use FMC for "avarice and greed?" How many times does the FMC need constant reminders that SHE CAN ESCAPE? With the catalog of books that the author has, these amateurish writing errors should be eradicated.
The author chooses to make the FMC deliberately obtuse. It's just so eye rolling.
World building: 2/5
Strength (inner or outer) of the FMC: 1/5
Uniqueness of men: 2/5
Here are the nicknames for the FMC that are (over) used in this book: little dove; little beast; my pet (or just pet); little girl; sunshine; mouse; baby bird; baby.
92% - we get the first on page example of sexual abuse via the MMC in order to make the FMC capitulate to his commands.
The men are just manwhores; the FMC makes such a DUMB decision at the end which changes the course of the next book. I felt like the author didn't know how to write a pivotal change in the story line w.o the FMC being dumb.
There is sooooo much repetition of information in this story. How many times are we told that people in this world only use FMC for "avarice and greed?" How many times does the FMC need constant reminders that SHE CAN ESCAPE? With the catalog of books that the author has, these amateurish writing errors should be eradicated.
The author chooses to make the FMC deliberately obtuse. It's just so eye rolling.
May 14, 2022
I still have a lot of catching up to do when it comes to Katie May, but this new release almost seemed written for me and it was therefore impossible not to read it before continuing making my way through May's entire backlist. I have to admit that the first book of ACOTAR and me have a love-hate relationship, I almost didn't finish it, but I had high hopes that I couldn't go wrong with this version of the Fae Court Wars told by Katie May.
Just like ACOTAR May mainly uses her first book to build the world and to introduce us to her characters. The plot is showing itself once in a while, reminding us that it's still there, but it's clearly not really getting started until the final chapters of the book. Just like our characters have started moving in the same direction, but very clearly haven't all arrived yet. It makes the book slower than May's usual books, but it also makes it feel very rich and epic.
And even though world building and waiting for the plot to start moving is usually not entirely my thing, I quite enjoyed how May did it. And that's mostly because May doesn't waste time on info-dumps and lengthy descriptions. She shows us the world, she has us experience the world. Her characters are traveling and living in different parts of the world and therefore without much effort we get a feel for how harsh and brutal this society is.
Just like we're slowly getting to know the main characters in this story and those connected to them. And all of these characters are interesting, complicated, layered and twisted. A lot of them are incredibly powerful and they always say that with great power comes great responsibility, but not all characters have learned that lesson (yet?). And who can blame them? In a world where it's either kill or be killed, the heart has to harden to survive.
I can't wait to read the next book in this series!
Just like ACOTAR May mainly uses her first book to build the world and to introduce us to her characters. The plot is showing itself once in a while, reminding us that it's still there, but it's clearly not really getting started until the final chapters of the book. Just like our characters have started moving in the same direction, but very clearly haven't all arrived yet. It makes the book slower than May's usual books, but it also makes it feel very rich and epic.
And even though world building and waiting for the plot to start moving is usually not entirely my thing, I quite enjoyed how May did it. And that's mostly because May doesn't waste time on info-dumps and lengthy descriptions. She shows us the world, she has us experience the world. Her characters are traveling and living in different parts of the world and therefore without much effort we get a feel for how harsh and brutal this society is.
Just like we're slowly getting to know the main characters in this story and those connected to them. And all of these characters are interesting, complicated, layered and twisted. A lot of them are incredibly powerful and they always say that with great power comes great responsibility, but not all characters have learned that lesson (yet?). And who can blame them? In a world where it's either kill or be killed, the heart has to harden to survive.
I can't wait to read the next book in this series!
July 9, 2023
I feel like there was no progress in this book at all. The same conversation kept happening nothing moved forward and it was not fun. I know they are counting on more books but that does not mean we have to sit here for years. Also she is literally there prisoner. Not a fan
May 8, 2022
Poor Cass has only ever known pain and sadness. From as early as age 5 she has been a prisoner herself by healing people who have paid her Madam. The only issue is that anytime she heals someone she feels it as though it happened to her and there are consequences for it each time.
I loved Cass’s character, but the guys not so much. There were quite a few of them and it got a little confusing at times. Unfortunately we didn’t really get to know them yet, but I’m looking forward to reading the next books so we can.
I loved Cass’s character, but the guys not so much. There were quite a few of them and it got a little confusing at times. Unfortunately we didn’t really get to know them yet, but I’m looking forward to reading the next books so we can.
July 23, 2022
Different and good.
May 7, 2022
Slow burn Fae Reverse Harem
I was so excited to read this book after hearing about it in Katie May's reader group and it didn't disappoint.
Of Rain and Wrath is a slow burn reverse harem set in a world containing Fae in different seasonal courts. Kassandra the fmc is the Death Whisperer and with one hand can kill someone and with the other heal a person. She is also mute. She hasn't been treated very well and has been used by others for her powers until one day she comes across a man who declares her as his mate.
This book has an enemies to lovers vibe as Kassandra definitely isn't loving the men in her life who see her as their mate. The world building is good and I can't wait to hear more about all the different courts and why the day and night courts are causing a war.
I love the banter between Kass and Treyton and the possessiveness of Blaze. I can't wait to read more!
I was so excited to read this book after hearing about it in Katie May's reader group and it didn't disappoint.
Of Rain and Wrath is a slow burn reverse harem set in a world containing Fae in different seasonal courts. Kassandra the fmc is the Death Whisperer and with one hand can kill someone and with the other heal a person. She is also mute. She hasn't been treated very well and has been used by others for her powers until one day she comes across a man who declares her as his mate.
This book has an enemies to lovers vibe as Kassandra definitely isn't loving the men in her life who see her as their mate. The world building is good and I can't wait to hear more about all the different courts and why the day and night courts are causing a war.
I love the banter between Kass and Treyton and the possessiveness of Blaze. I can't wait to read more!
May 25, 2022
3,5 stars
Poor Kassandra, she has been thru so much and is still not getting any luck. I have a hate love thing for the guys, i don´t know if i even like them now to be honest. Blaze not a great first impression bruh, and Treyton he aint better. Calan we have not seen that much, but he is being an asshole and rude. The last one which not even Kass have met yet Aleksander (and his master) he is the most mysterious one. They all have a long way to go, i totally get why Kass is not wanting to be with them. Lol it´s funny, i am exited tho for see how they gonna grow on Kass and change. My fave is the paco animal, he is loyal and cute. I love how protective he is of Kass, obv cuz she saved him but anyways
I wonder who Raven is tho, could he be Aleksanders master? and the other ones who is popping up in Kass nightmares?
Poor Kassandra, she has been thru so much and is still not getting any luck. I have a hate love thing for the guys, i don´t know if i even like them now to be honest. Blaze not a great first impression bruh, and Treyton he aint better. Calan we have not seen that much, but he is being an asshole and rude. The last one which not even Kass have met yet Aleksander (and his master) he is the most mysterious one. They all have a long way to go, i totally get why Kass is not wanting to be with them. Lol it´s funny, i am exited tho for see how they gonna grow on Kass and change. My fave is the paco animal, he is loyal and cute. I love how protective he is of Kass, obv cuz she saved him but anyways
I wonder who Raven is tho, could he be Aleksanders master? and the other ones who is popping up in Kass nightmares?
October 1, 2023
This is a har review to write. I think this series has potential but I recommend to wait the end of the series to start it because the 2 first book are too short.
What I liked :
- No instant love on the FMC side
- The FMC is an interesting character = she is logical and doesn't accept any BS
- The world seem interesting
- it's really slow burn
What I didn't like :
- The books are way too short for this type of story and world. This has potential so give me more world description.
- I feel that the situation between the MC an FMC is a little ridiculous, they knows they are her mates but she doesn't know. I can understand in the first book but not in the second.
- They're a lot of things we don't understand in the book.
What I liked :
- No instant love on the FMC side
- The FMC is an interesting character = she is logical and doesn't accept any BS
- The world seem interesting
- it's really slow burn
What I didn't like :
- The books are way too short for this type of story and world. This has potential so give me more world description.
- I feel that the situation between the MC an FMC is a little ridiculous, they knows they are her mates but she doesn't know. I can understand in the first book but not in the second.
- They're a lot of things we don't understand in the book.
July 15, 2024
more like 2.5 stars
I like it but it was a bit confusing a few spots. I’m pretty sure I know who Raven is. Changing POVs, start of the rh but it’s kindof like the FMC is in denial tho so no sexy times, which is ok. Side not I think Serena isn’t crazy I think she either can see some future (like psyhic/or even alternative possible realities) or she does actually travel to these far way places that she talks about. That’s her ability. Idk, I just don’t think she crazy there will be a story there.
I like it but it was a bit confusing a few spots. I’m pretty sure I know who Raven is. Changing POVs, start of the rh but it’s kindof like the FMC is in denial tho so no sexy times, which is ok. Side not I think Serena isn’t crazy I think she either can see some future (like psyhic/or even alternative possible realities) or she does actually travel to these far way places that she talks about. That’s her ability. Idk, I just don’t think she crazy there will be a story there.
May 29, 2022
things were happening and i could not tell you what they were
October 20, 2024
3.5 ⭐️
Disclaimer: I’m going to review it without spoilers at the top, then create a line and anything below that line will be spoilers. Do with that what you will.
For starters, part of the rating I’m giving is due to the potential this series has vs the book itself. This book had me hooked almost immediately. Even without reading a chapter, coming across a glossary of terms made me know that there were going to be some unique aspects to this book + world building.
Things I liked:
- Kassandra’s unique powers. This is such an interesting concept and how she has a duality to her and how it manifests is awesome.
- The unique colors that each court has and the variations each person within the courts. I instantly love a series that brings unique traits to characters. Who says we have to have normal hair colors and skin colors when you’re talking about FANTASY?
- The inclusion of disabilities. Mute, deaf, blind…it’s the inclusivity that I hope more authors take into account. On top of this, the author showcases strengths within the disabilities. Also, building sign language into the book too…LOVE!
- The hint of a neurospicy prince 😍
- Unusual weapons + process. (I’ll say more in the spoilers part)
- This is very slow-burn. I’m sure some people have issues with that because not a lot happens both plot wise and sexually, but I love the buildup. Makes it so much better in the long run. There’s so much potential to this series.
- Runt
- Kass’s personality coming out more and more. She was forced to be quiet for so long and now she’s mouthy even without being able to speak. You go girl. Keep those boys on their toes!
What I didn’t like:
- In a world of uniquely colored hair and skin tones, our FMC is a blonde hair, blue eyed girl? DULL. I think the author uses it to try and showcase a lack of association with a specific court, but it just irritated me.
- Blaze’s POV and just overall personality most of the time. “Why claim one pussy when you can have hundreds” gave me the literal ick. This author much like others does this to depict the change of switching to being a dedicated man to the FMC, but it’s disturbing. I’m sorry but what woman, man, or other wants a man that disrespects women THIS much? Like can we have a MMC that might be emotionally distant or not wanting a relationship for one reason or another without him being an absolute misogynist pig? It makes me hate this men and concerned with what women will accept for the sake of “love”. There’s ways to delay and create turmoil without it being this toxic.
- Blaze’s POV also being instantly sexual. So you’re telling me Kassandra is your mate but all you can think about is how she’ll look on your dick and being vulgar? That’s lust not love. I’m fine with spicy scenes and love them when they seem authentic but the first POV of his and it’s instantly that? Hate it.
- The emphasis on Kass being so tiny. It strayed from being malnourishment to just a weird appeal of being skinny I felt like. And she’s been in the castle for days and then it’s pointing out how she’s plumped up? Like that’s not how it works. I’d love to see more concern for her weight and the guys wanting to get her healthy vs just being sexually aroused constantly.
I know there’s a lot that I disliked and I’m sure some are saying “why did he rate it so high then”. And I want to point out again that it’s due to potential. I enjoyed this book a lot and there were many “rights” but there are several “wrongs” that I wish the author wouldn’t lean into. Many of it is basic romantasy stuff that I wish authors would stop utilizing. Have some creativity, please! But I’ll give accolades where they’re due because this book does have a lot of creative aspects in it that most authors don’t have. There’s a uniqueness to this, which is fraught-fully lacking in most reverse harems.
SPOILERS BELOW THIS LINE
————————————————————
- I love that Kassandra’s weapon is a whip. When is that ever the choice for a weapon? Girls always get daggers as if they’re lesser and can’t handle a sword or something else. Deviating from that is so good!
- I love Runt and I can’t wait to see more of what him seeing Kassandra as a packmate means.
- Potential lesbian love interest? YES PLEASE.
Disclaimer: I’m going to review it without spoilers at the top, then create a line and anything below that line will be spoilers. Do with that what you will.
For starters, part of the rating I’m giving is due to the potential this series has vs the book itself. This book had me hooked almost immediately. Even without reading a chapter, coming across a glossary of terms made me know that there were going to be some unique aspects to this book + world building.
Things I liked:
- Kassandra’s unique powers. This is such an interesting concept and how she has a duality to her and how it manifests is awesome.
- The unique colors that each court has and the variations each person within the courts. I instantly love a series that brings unique traits to characters. Who says we have to have normal hair colors and skin colors when you’re talking about FANTASY?
- The inclusion of disabilities. Mute, deaf, blind…it’s the inclusivity that I hope more authors take into account. On top of this, the author showcases strengths within the disabilities. Also, building sign language into the book too…LOVE!
- The hint of a neurospicy prince 😍
- Unusual weapons + process. (I’ll say more in the spoilers part)
- This is very slow-burn. I’m sure some people have issues with that because not a lot happens both plot wise and sexually, but I love the buildup. Makes it so much better in the long run. There’s so much potential to this series.
- Runt
- Kass’s personality coming out more and more. She was forced to be quiet for so long and now she’s mouthy even without being able to speak. You go girl. Keep those boys on their toes!
What I didn’t like:
- In a world of uniquely colored hair and skin tones, our FMC is a blonde hair, blue eyed girl? DULL. I think the author uses it to try and showcase a lack of association with a specific court, but it just irritated me.
- Blaze’s POV and just overall personality most of the time. “Why claim one pussy when you can have hundreds” gave me the literal ick. This author much like others does this to depict the change of switching to being a dedicated man to the FMC, but it’s disturbing. I’m sorry but what woman, man, or other wants a man that disrespects women THIS much? Like can we have a MMC that might be emotionally distant or not wanting a relationship for one reason or another without him being an absolute misogynist pig? It makes me hate this men and concerned with what women will accept for the sake of “love”. There’s ways to delay and create turmoil without it being this toxic.
- Blaze’s POV also being instantly sexual. So you’re telling me Kassandra is your mate but all you can think about is how she’ll look on your dick and being vulgar? That’s lust not love. I’m fine with spicy scenes and love them when they seem authentic but the first POV of his and it’s instantly that? Hate it.
- The emphasis on Kass being so tiny. It strayed from being malnourishment to just a weird appeal of being skinny I felt like. And she’s been in the castle for days and then it’s pointing out how she’s plumped up? Like that’s not how it works. I’d love to see more concern for her weight and the guys wanting to get her healthy vs just being sexually aroused constantly.
I know there’s a lot that I disliked and I’m sure some are saying “why did he rate it so high then”. And I want to point out again that it’s due to potential. I enjoyed this book a lot and there were many “rights” but there are several “wrongs” that I wish the author wouldn’t lean into. Many of it is basic romantasy stuff that I wish authors would stop utilizing. Have some creativity, please! But I’ll give accolades where they’re due because this book does have a lot of creative aspects in it that most authors don’t have. There’s a uniqueness to this, which is fraught-fully lacking in most reverse harems.
SPOILERS BELOW THIS LINE
————————————————————
- I love that Kassandra’s weapon is a whip. When is that ever the choice for a weapon? Girls always get daggers as if they’re lesser and can’t handle a sword or something else. Deviating from that is so good!
- I love Runt and I can’t wait to see more of what him seeing Kassandra as a packmate means.
- Potential lesbian love interest? YES PLEASE.
July 25, 2024
I just don’t know….
April 7, 2025
DNF @36% her thoughts definitely put me in a weird place and I can not handle everyone calling her pet I just couldn’t
July 20, 2022
What an interesting concept! The cover and blurb pulled me in and I really enjoyed this book. There were times when the pacing felt a little slow and I preferred Kassandra's POV over the guys (switches back and forth but Kassandra is main POV) since she felt more raw and real.
That said, I don't really like Blaze... While he gives off alpha/possessive vibes, it's done in a way that just irritates me. Since we get his POV, there's no misunderstanding of his thoughts since he literally spells it out for us. Even after realizing Kassandra was his mate (not a big spoiler since you learn this fairly early on- but she doesn't realize it, only he does), he thinks to himself that maybe he will still go through with his arranged marriage and keep Kassandra as a mistress since he never planned to be faithful to his wife. And of course, he'll have to sleep with his wife a few times to keep her off his back. Something about that just irks me. Well, I know exactly why it irks me. I hate OW "drama" used as a plot point. Eventually he dismisses that idea and decides he won't go through with the arranged marriage, but still.
He is also very unclear about his feelings other than possession towards Kassandra. He says he is going to take care of her and protect her, but for someone who has been used and abused her whole life, how is she to trust that? None of his actions show care for her wellbeing other than his own selfish desires to bring her to heel. All he does is stick her in his room while he's out to meetings and forces her to sleep in the same bed as him. The few times she sneaks out with the head of the royal guard, he flips out. Sure in his inner monologue he thinks about what lengths he will go to for her, but none of it is verbalized.
Treyton is an interesting character that I'd like to see more of. I didn't like the stunt he pulled at the market (again, a tease of OW drama) and I don't like that that miscommunication is being used as a plot point to get Kassandra not to trust him as much. Kassandra also quickly calls him out on his fake smile and fake persona and how much she dislikes it but her ire towards him seems shallow and we're not really given enough detail to understand why she dislikes him so much, so quickly after meeting him. It just doesn't make much sense.
There are at least 2 other male POVs that we get, the prince of the Winter realm and an assassin hunting the Death Whisperer. I'm not sure if this is going to be a reverse harem or if Kassandra will have to choose. I hope she doesn't since I don't like love triangles but that's a personal preference. Sharing is caring, you know?
Anyways, I'm still looking forward to book 2 and I hope we get more from the guys... right now they are all falling a little short. I'm also still struggling to remember which measurement of time is for seconds/minutes. It's not done in a way that is intuitive so I just feel confused. Hopefully book 2 will have a little more connection between the characters. I am absolutely rooting for Serena and Cayetana. For the love of god PLEASE make that happen, Katie May!
That said, I don't really like Blaze... While he gives off alpha/possessive vibes, it's done in a way that just irritates me. Since we get his POV, there's no misunderstanding of his thoughts since he literally spells it out for us. Even after realizing Kassandra was his mate (not a big spoiler since you learn this fairly early on- but she doesn't realize it, only he does), he thinks to himself that maybe he will still go through with his arranged marriage and keep Kassandra as a mistress since he never planned to be faithful to his wife. And of course, he'll have to sleep with his wife a few times to keep her off his back. Something about that just irks me. Well, I know exactly why it irks me. I hate OW "drama" used as a plot point. Eventually he dismisses that idea and decides he won't go through with the arranged marriage, but still.
He is also very unclear about his feelings other than possession towards Kassandra. He says he is going to take care of her and protect her, but for someone who has been used and abused her whole life, how is she to trust that? None of his actions show care for her wellbeing other than his own selfish desires to bring her to heel. All he does is stick her in his room while he's out to meetings and forces her to sleep in the same bed as him. The few times she sneaks out with the head of the royal guard, he flips out. Sure in his inner monologue he thinks about what lengths he will go to for her, but none of it is verbalized.
Treyton is an interesting character that I'd like to see more of. I didn't like the stunt he pulled at the market (again, a tease of OW drama) and I don't like that that miscommunication is being used as a plot point to get Kassandra not to trust him as much. Kassandra also quickly calls him out on his fake smile and fake persona and how much she dislikes it but her ire towards him seems shallow and we're not really given enough detail to understand why she dislikes him so much, so quickly after meeting him. It just doesn't make much sense.
There are at least 2 other male POVs that we get, the prince of the Winter realm and an assassin hunting the Death Whisperer. I'm not sure if this is going to be a reverse harem or if Kassandra will have to choose. I hope she doesn't since I don't like love triangles but that's a personal preference. Sharing is caring, you know?
Anyways, I'm still looking forward to book 2 and I hope we get more from the guys... right now they are all falling a little short. I'm also still struggling to remember which measurement of time is for seconds/minutes. It's not done in a way that is intuitive so I just feel confused. Hopefully book 2 will have a little more connection between the characters. I am absolutely rooting for Serena and Cayetana. For the love of god PLEASE make that happen, Katie May!
March 22, 2025
I'm still not so sure about this one. It was really great. But the guys are kind of crazy and I don't like the way that she can't speak. But she's kick ass already, and I kind of need to know what happens in the next book.
May 20, 2022
Absolutely amazing!
This is definitely a slow burn and for once I am not complaining at all.
Katie May how could you leave me with a book hangover this hard...lol?
Anywho, Kassandra is freaking such an amazing character. Though her mindset is stuck from all the things she goes through you still get to see her firey side. Beautiful woman with an amazing heart.
The boys, so far, are all hiding secrets and past issues. What and why is definitely up for future books.
The world, the building of it is exquisite and you get it. I am glad for the small glossary at the beginning, that helps alot with a few words that I was like oh yeah...that's what that is...lol
The plot so far is delicious and gosh a page turner. This book is 100% unique and nothing I have read before. I am so happy I got to read it but also pretty depressed I have to wait for more books. I cannot wait!
Loved it! This is a book I am gonna want on my actual bookshelf not just digital.
This is definitely a slow burn and for once I am not complaining at all.
Katie May how could you leave me with a book hangover this hard...lol?
Anywho, Kassandra is freaking such an amazing character. Though her mindset is stuck from all the things she goes through you still get to see her firey side. Beautiful woman with an amazing heart.
The boys, so far, are all hiding secrets and past issues. What and why is definitely up for future books.
The world, the building of it is exquisite and you get it. I am glad for the small glossary at the beginning, that helps alot with a few words that I was like oh yeah...that's what that is...lol
The plot so far is delicious and gosh a page turner. This book is 100% unique and nothing I have read before. I am so happy I got to read it but also pretty depressed I have to wait for more books. I cannot wait!
Loved it! This is a book I am gonna want on my actual bookshelf not just digital.
November 6, 2022
Ugh
This book could’ve shaped up to be the start of a good series. I enjoyed the premise. I love the idea of a pure spirit that takes pain into herself to heal those she touches, very interesting idea and it was well executed for the most part. The largest issues I had were with the men (The FMC’s would be mates) they were all introduced too quickly in book one, like each chapter was a new guy, and sadly they all kind of sucked! You have this poor girl who has been tortured and abused her entire life and kept as a slave. Then she’s sold again as a slave/pet this time to one of her presumed mates who -oh wait for it - is already engaged to be married and wants to keep her as his mistress! Yes how romantic is that *eye roll* then you have another prince who wants her just for her power and another one who wants to kill her because she didn’t save his brother - never mind that she was held prisoner her entire life, AND had no idea this jerk Fae princes’s brother was dying!!! Plus the weird assassin guy who is trying to procure her for his client. You have no idea who or what he is. And there in lies the problem with this book, there was NO character development except for Kassandra. Her men were not even developed enough to call, “her men” even in slow burn RH you usually see the beginning of some sort of connection before it builds in subsequent books into love- This book just threw everything at us and said here you go…here’s this amazing FMC and the men who either want to use, abuse, hate or kill her. Not a rousing romantic endorsement for future books in the series.
This book could’ve shaped up to be the start of a good series. I enjoyed the premise. I love the idea of a pure spirit that takes pain into herself to heal those she touches, very interesting idea and it was well executed for the most part. The largest issues I had were with the men (The FMC’s would be mates) they were all introduced too quickly in book one, like each chapter was a new guy, and sadly they all kind of sucked! You have this poor girl who has been tortured and abused her entire life and kept as a slave. Then she’s sold again as a slave/pet this time to one of her presumed mates who -oh wait for it - is already engaged to be married and wants to keep her as his mistress! Yes how romantic is that *eye roll* then you have another prince who wants her just for her power and another one who wants to kill her because she didn’t save his brother - never mind that she was held prisoner her entire life, AND had no idea this jerk Fae princes’s brother was dying!!! Plus the weird assassin guy who is trying to procure her for his client. You have no idea who or what he is. And there in lies the problem with this book, there was NO character development except for Kassandra. Her men were not even developed enough to call, “her men” even in slow burn RH you usually see the beginning of some sort of connection before it builds in subsequent books into love- This book just threw everything at us and said here you go…here’s this amazing FMC and the men who either want to use, abuse, hate or kill her. Not a rousing romantic endorsement for future books in the series.
July 7, 2023
DNF 82%
This book.... Requires more patience then I currently possess.
It wasn't bad per say, but when I caught myself starting to speed read it just to get through I decided to throw in the towel. After all, there's plenty of books out there that I never want to end, why waste time trying to speed through one?
Here's a prime example of the writing that made this book off-putting.
"Something about her makes my chest compress, as if my ribs are too tiny to contain my heart and lungs. Her mere presence pulls me into a riptide, but instead of the water being cool, it’s blistering hot, burning me in a baking, pervasive heat. It’s like the sun itself is shining from her eyes, and all of the wispy pieces of cotton cluttering my mind disperse with one look into them. Even the darkness permeating my stomach dissipates the longer I stare at her."
Yeah, that is just a little taste. Imagine it on repeat, again and again and again until you're sitting there wondering just what the fuck is happening.
The characters themselves are also pretty awful. At this point in time I'm not wanting anything good for any of them. So yeah, this one is a fail for me. When you hate the writing, hate the characters, what the hell are you doing reading the book?
Hard pass
This book.... Requires more patience then I currently possess.
It wasn't bad per say, but when I caught myself starting to speed read it just to get through I decided to throw in the towel. After all, there's plenty of books out there that I never want to end, why waste time trying to speed through one?
Here's a prime example of the writing that made this book off-putting.
"Something about her makes my chest compress, as if my ribs are too tiny to contain my heart and lungs. Her mere presence pulls me into a riptide, but instead of the water being cool, it’s blistering hot, burning me in a baking, pervasive heat. It’s like the sun itself is shining from her eyes, and all of the wispy pieces of cotton cluttering my mind disperse with one look into them. Even the darkness permeating my stomach dissipates the longer I stare at her."
Yeah, that is just a little taste. Imagine it on repeat, again and again and again until you're sitting there wondering just what the fuck is happening.
The characters themselves are also pretty awful. At this point in time I'm not wanting anything good for any of them. So yeah, this one is a fail for me. When you hate the writing, hate the characters, what the hell are you doing reading the book?
Hard pass
May 26, 2025
This book had SO much potential. There were a lot of things I really liked about it and I can see why it has a pretty high rating for an RH book. I was absolutely enthralled until maybe halfway through when I realized I strongly dislike her mates. One is the kind of dude who would whip out his junk after getting you alone and give you an unsolicited show... Oh wait, he did exactly that. Not the kind of dude I would ever find redeemable. Personal preference, I guess.
It was really cool to see one of the lead males having traits that could be seen as being on the autism spectrum and reminiscent of OCD symptoms. That's not something you see EVER in a lead character in fantasy/romance.
I also like that the MC's power had such strong repercussions. A lot of the time the MC in fantasy either starts out as OP or ends up becoming OP within the first book and that gets extremely annoying. It takes a lot of the suspense, conflict, or challenge out of potential magical conflicts.
Despite not liking the men in the MC's life and a few other little gripes I will be eagerly awaiting the next book in the series.
It was really cool to see one of the lead males having traits that could be seen as being on the autism spectrum and reminiscent of OCD symptoms. That's not something you see EVER in a lead character in fantasy/romance.
I also like that the MC's power had such strong repercussions. A lot of the time the MC in fantasy either starts out as OP or ends up becoming OP within the first book and that gets extremely annoying. It takes a lot of the suspense, conflict, or challenge out of potential magical conflicts.
Despite not liking the men in the MC's life and a few other little gripes I will be eagerly awaiting the next book in the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 7, 2022
Way too fragmented in story and makes no sense
You read the entire book but you never get to any point where things make sense or anything is explained. There are lots of extra people in the book that you have no idea where they fit in (all her dream scenes), someone is hunting her, no clue who or why, there is a fourth guy that has no name or face but she likes, absolutely nothing is explained, very fragmented. The lead character is completely clueless about what is going on with her "men" but then she also knows tons, which doesn't make any sense. She is very strong in stupid parts and weak in places where she should be strong. She has plenty of places where she can escape but she doesn't, no clue why not since she is miserable where she is. It could have been a great story if the writer would have focused on areas of her life and built on others later. I won't read the second book and the only reason I actually finished this one was because I was hoping that parts of the story would make sense. Also, the ending is not a cliffhanger at all....the book just stops like she ran out of time and didn't know what to say.
You read the entire book but you never get to any point where things make sense or anything is explained. There are lots of extra people in the book that you have no idea where they fit in (all her dream scenes), someone is hunting her, no clue who or why, there is a fourth guy that has no name or face but she likes, absolutely nothing is explained, very fragmented. The lead character is completely clueless about what is going on with her "men" but then she also knows tons, which doesn't make any sense. She is very strong in stupid parts and weak in places where she should be strong. She has plenty of places where she can escape but she doesn't, no clue why not since she is miserable where she is. It could have been a great story if the writer would have focused on areas of her life and built on others later. I won't read the second book and the only reason I actually finished this one was because I was hoping that parts of the story would make sense. Also, the ending is not a cliffhanger at all....the book just stops like she ran out of time and didn't know what to say.
June 15, 2025
Man ... The writing was so good the book easily was a four star, but the book was really dark for me and I know I won't reread it.
I'll be honest, it's really baffling me why I found this book so disturbing. I feel like I've read and enjoyed much darker books, but this one affected me more somehow.
These are my conclusions:
1. The MFC is a prisoner the whole time and not in control of anything. (In the beginning she's tortured daily, so her situation does improve as the book progresses, even though she's still a prisoner)
2. The MFC is written to be very passive, almost childlike
3. The male characters seem to care for her, but this is not reciprocated and in fact she fears them.
I don't know, maybe you'll love it where I did not. The writing was really good and I enjoyed the book, but just found it disturbing.
I'll be honest, it's really baffling me why I found this book so disturbing. I feel like I've read and enjoyed much darker books, but this one affected me more somehow.
These are my conclusions:
1. The MFC is a prisoner the whole time and not in control of anything. (In the beginning she's tortured daily, so her situation does improve as the book progresses, even though she's still a prisoner)
2. The MFC is written to be very passive, almost childlike
3. The male characters seem to care for her, but this is not reciprocated and in fact she fears them.
I don't know, maybe you'll love it where I did not. The writing was really good and I enjoyed the book, but just found it disturbing.
July 6, 2022
I’m disappointed.
I really liked the beginning part of this book. Although there were parts where I felt like the author just used as a source and kept using the same similes and synonyms to say the same thing, it was very interesting to read the beginning part of the book before she goes with the fall prince.
There were many parts that were just a little too similar to Sara J mass that I did not like. After she goes with the fall prints it’s not like everything else just went really really fast without looking into details or explanations. I also feel like nothing really happened in the book. The author should work on her flow of time and the flow of the plot and Hpac. I think she has an idea where she wants to go with a series but it just seems like the main character of losing everything without having a direction that were going on.
I really liked the beginning part of this book. Although there were parts where I felt like the author just used as a source and kept using the same similes and synonyms to say the same thing, it was very interesting to read the beginning part of the book before she goes with the fall prince.
There were many parts that were just a little too similar to Sara J mass that I did not like. After she goes with the fall prints it’s not like everything else just went really really fast without looking into details or explanations. I also feel like nothing really happened in the book. The author should work on her flow of time and the flow of the plot and Hpac. I think she has an idea where she wants to go with a series but it just seems like the main character of losing everything without having a direction that were going on.
May 29, 2022
Ok so I have really mixed feelings about this book. The good things: the main female character is interesting and the world building is fascinating. However this felt like an unnecessarily long prolog with too much detail in some places and not enough in others. I felt like there was never any actual conflict that was introduced and I kept waiting for the main conflict to actually appear. The relationship between the FMC and the main love interest was also poorly developed and I felt like there wasn't a lot there. I also felt like there were a lot of plot holes in some of the details around the world building. Overall I think its a good start to an interesting world but the book could use some work; I will not be continuing the series.
August 3, 2022
DNF
I waited for the greatness that I was told this book was but got to 70% and couldn't take it anymore. This child, because she acts like one the whole time, goes from meek and obedient to talking back to people within days with nothing to show why all of a sudden she grew a spine. The guys rescues her and kills her jailers and she decides to hate him for keeping her safe even though she had just said she didn't care anymore. Then hates another guy that also is just nice for no reason?? Yeah these guys are not the good guya but they aren't bad to her so it's bewildering how dense she is. All these things happen and she is just dumb and can't see further than her own thoughts.
I waited for the greatness that I was told this book was but got to 70% and couldn't take it anymore. This child, because she acts like one the whole time, goes from meek and obedient to talking back to people within days with nothing to show why all of a sudden she grew a spine. The guys rescues her and kills her jailers and she decides to hate him for keeping her safe even though she had just said she didn't care anymore. Then hates another guy that also is just nice for no reason?? Yeah these guys are not the good guya but they aren't bad to her so it's bewildering how dense she is. All these things happen and she is just dumb and can't see further than her own thoughts.
May 12, 2022
So I really loved Kass- she is broken but still fierce. She has been used and I really like how she is able to see past the facades the ups put on. I also loved Runt, Serena, and Caetana (sp?). The guys are definitely anti- heroes, and while they seem obsessed with Kass, I’m not really sold on them yet. I felt like the story moved slow, and there were a lot of POVs, including some from people who haven’t met Kass yet, and then there were her dreams, which also sort of confused me. In general, I tend to love the books by this author, and I will likely check out book 2 to see if we get some answers, but this book left me feeling kind of lost.
June 3, 2023
I am confused but it was an interesting new read! Maybe just not the one for me
The MC is locked away her whole life and is special like the typical stereotype. I was very intrigued that she heals people by taking their pain so that’s what kept me going. The men sucked and I am so confused about who will be with her. The women (other than her original caretaker) were the best characters. I can’t even summarize what happened cause I’m not even sure I understand what is going on other than the MC is a special person that everyone wants to control.
The MC is locked away her whole life and is special like the typical stereotype. I was very intrigued that she heals people by taking their pain so that’s what kept me going. The men sucked and I am so confused about who will be with her. The women (other than her original caretaker) were the best characters. I can’t even summarize what happened cause I’m not even sure I understand what is going on other than the MC is a special person that everyone wants to control.
April 13, 2023
Slow burn
I'm not a fan of slow burn, but I didn't mind in this book, it made sense, and instant lust and love would not have made sense at all.
The men are terrible, which everyone loves of course but I'm looking forward on how they can become her worthy mates.
And I can't wait for book 2, I'm sad I already read this one because now I have to wait haha
I'm not a fan of slow burn, but I didn't mind in this book, it made sense, and instant lust and love would not have made sense at all.
The men are terrible, which everyone loves of course but I'm looking forward on how they can become her worthy mates.
And I can't wait for book 2, I'm sad I already read this one because now I have to wait haha
Displaying 1 - 30 of 179 reviews