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Faerie Silver, Iron Cold
No well-brought-up child of Brinley would ever dream of crossing the stepping stones. In Brinley, no one ever goes out at night and cold iron guards every door and window, for the stream crossing doesn’t just lead to the deep forest—it leads to Faerie. All children of Saxony were told Faerie stories, but the ones of Brinley whispered of protective yellow hardhay flowers and cold iron to ward away the ever-looming danger.
Ciar Eckstein isn’t a well-brought-up child of Brinley.
When her mother dies, her father sends Ciar and her brother to live with their grandparents, guardians of Brinley’s bridge to Faerie. Ciar’s mother’s Faerie stories were alluring, but in Brinley the tales are dark. Despite their parent’s warnings the children of Brinley play dangerous games along the bank. Ciar is the only one to ever take the ultimate dare—cross the stream into Faerie.
Faerie is beautiful and dangerous, and nothing in Faerie is quite so beautiful or dangerous as the young Fae, Mael. Ciar and Mael grow up together as Brinley watches in horrified fascination, wondering when the Fae-touched girl will disappear over the stream forever, swallowed up by the hungry woods that have claimed so many others. Brinley breathes a sigh of relief when Ciar goes off to school, town and girl finally freed.
But with a promise to return hanging in the balance, is Brinley right about what waits in Faerie?
Ciar Eckstein isn’t a well-brought-up child of Brinley.
When her mother dies, her father sends Ciar and her brother to live with their grandparents, guardians of Brinley’s bridge to Faerie. Ciar’s mother’s Faerie stories were alluring, but in Brinley the tales are dark. Despite their parent’s warnings the children of Brinley play dangerous games along the bank. Ciar is the only one to ever take the ultimate dare—cross the stream into Faerie.
Faerie is beautiful and dangerous, and nothing in Faerie is quite so beautiful or dangerous as the young Fae, Mael. Ciar and Mael grow up together as Brinley watches in horrified fascination, wondering when the Fae-touched girl will disappear over the stream forever, swallowed up by the hungry woods that have claimed so many others. Brinley breathes a sigh of relief when Ciar goes off to school, town and girl finally freed.
But with a promise to return hanging in the balance, is Brinley right about what waits in Faerie?
430 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 15, 2022
3 people are currently reading
113 people want to read
About the author
Vic Malachai
5 books12 followersI started writing with my sister and a friend of ours back in high school. We enjoyed it and even finished one of our projects. One day in the bookstore I picked up a book and thought, even I could do better than this! Now I write in-between dodging grad school classes, baking, and wasting time exploring other people's worlds.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
July 26, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley for providing the eARC edition of Faerie Silver, Iron Cold in return for a fair and honest review!
--
Content Warnings:
**Disclaimer: This list may/may not include all content warnings for Faerie Silver, Iron Cold. However, any warnings listed are all mild, brief, or vague in description.
--
First off, I absolutely loved this book. I, admittedly, have not read very many Faerie themed books, including ACOTAR, so I was not quite sure what I was in for. However, the cover grabbed me, the book description grabbed tighter, and then the story took me for an entire spin. I was entirely wrapped around this story to the point of thinking about it while at work.
I think the play with Faerie/Fae was very well done. There were a lot of the classic nods towards the culture of Faerie including being unable to lie, having names in high regard, as well as their aptitude towards magic and perfection. There was a line in the book that referred to the Fae as being vain due to their intricate braids and hair designs, but what I find interesting, is that later on, the idea of the entire race of people being vain is never brought up again, nor is obviously displayed in the behaviors from the later characters.
I adore Ciar and her character. I was a little unsure about the beginning, especially with it starting as the main characters when they're children, but it really roped me in and convinced me to stick along for the ride. She grows from this mischievous little heathen, into a teenage who does her best and wants to succeed and return to her friend, to an independent and free-thinking grown woman who means well, does well, and isn't afraid to throw attitude and her own opinions in the face of opposing characters. It's very refreshing to see a main character that can stand on her own two feet and carry herself alone.
Each of the side characters had quirky and fun personalities, all of them distinguishable from one another, which helped to add to the depth of the background. I liked the split between Seelie and Unseelie, and enjoyed the different imagery and traits that each of the groups (kingdoms?) had.
I do think that a couple characters could have had a little more fleshing out, but given that they were side characters, it's not enough for me to warrant taking away a star. Additionally, there was a child character left behind later in the book, and I do wish we had also learned about what her fate was. But, again, I didn't see it as that much of an oversight, considering the book is about Ciar and Mael. Which, their relationship from childhood to adulthood is very well done, and refreshingly healthy. It is very obvious that Mael cares for Ciar even through the differences in Faerie/Human culture, but is done in a way that is not overbearing, possessive, or anything extreme beyond the ideal in Fae culture of "being promised to one another" and "bondmates."
Beyond that, the pair agree and disagree, have fleshed out conversations involving each other's worlds, and later on, through the theme of love in the book, I believe that Mael feels that even if it is not expressed in the same manner as the other characters. As someone who struggles with wording emotions, I think I appreciated the idea of "giving gifts" and taking actions, even if there were small "ulterior motives" or "a gift is never a gift, the fae always want something in return" nods, given that the affection between Ciar and Mael is more silent, and physical, than it is outwardly spoken.
I think the final chapter was maybe a little rushed, especially towards the end? It did feel a bit abrupt, given I had to go back and reread a couple of times just to make sure it didn't end as quickly as I'd imagined. Maybe that was more to do with my enjoyment of the book, rather than its actual purpose in its ending. Who's to say?
Additionally, I appreciated that the discrimination towards the Fae continued on throughout the book. It kept up the frustration towards certain characters, as opinions changing so quickly is simply unrealistic and would've been odd to have such a violent 180 shift. Across the board, the author did a gorgeous job of building up the world, the environment, and all the little nitty-gritty details that made the book what it is, even down to the creatures, fruits, foods, and general atmosphere. As someone who pours themselves over worldbuilding, this really scratched an itch that I had in a lovely way. Good on the author! It shows that they really cared a great deal for this world and for their characters.
Overall, I would give the book approximately a 4.5/5 stars, rounded up! I'm very happy with this one, and I'm very grateful to NetGalley for offering this title as an eARC. As my first eARC read and reviewed, I look forward to doing more now that my expectations have been set! I look forward to purchasing this one when it hits the shelves, so it can sit prettily on mine.
--
Content Warnings:
**Disclaimer: This list may/may not include all content warnings for Faerie Silver, Iron Cold. However, any warnings listed are all mild, brief, or vague in description.
--
First off, I absolutely loved this book. I, admittedly, have not read very many Faerie themed books, including ACOTAR, so I was not quite sure what I was in for. However, the cover grabbed me, the book description grabbed tighter, and then the story took me for an entire spin. I was entirely wrapped around this story to the point of thinking about it while at work.
I think the play with Faerie/Fae was very well done. There were a lot of the classic nods towards the culture of Faerie including being unable to lie, having names in high regard, as well as their aptitude towards magic and perfection. There was a line in the book that referred to the Fae as being vain due to their intricate braids and hair designs, but what I find interesting, is that later on, the idea of the entire race of people being vain is never brought up again, nor is obviously displayed in the behaviors from the later characters.
I adore Ciar and her character. I was a little unsure about the beginning, especially with it starting as the main characters when they're children, but it really roped me in and convinced me to stick along for the ride. She grows from this mischievous little heathen, into a teenage who does her best and wants to succeed and return to her friend, to an independent and free-thinking grown woman who means well, does well, and isn't afraid to throw attitude and her own opinions in the face of opposing characters. It's very refreshing to see a main character that can stand on her own two feet and carry herself alone.
Each of the side characters had quirky and fun personalities, all of them distinguishable from one another, which helped to add to the depth of the background. I liked the split between Seelie and Unseelie, and enjoyed the different imagery and traits that each of the groups (kingdoms?) had.
I do think that a couple characters could have had a little more fleshing out, but given that they were side characters, it's not enough for me to warrant taking away a star. Additionally, there was a child character left behind later in the book, and I do wish we had also learned about what her fate was. But, again, I didn't see it as that much of an oversight, considering the book is about Ciar and Mael. Which, their relationship from childhood to adulthood is very well done, and refreshingly healthy. It is very obvious that Mael cares for Ciar even through the differences in Faerie/Human culture, but is done in a way that is not overbearing, possessive, or anything extreme beyond the ideal in Fae culture of "being promised to one another" and "bondmates."
Beyond that, the pair agree and disagree, have fleshed out conversations involving each other's worlds, and later on, through the theme of love in the book, I believe that Mael feels that even if it is not expressed in the same manner as the other characters. As someone who struggles with wording emotions, I think I appreciated the idea of "giving gifts" and taking actions, even if there were small "ulterior motives" or "a gift is never a gift, the fae always want something in return" nods, given that the affection between Ciar and Mael is more silent, and physical, than it is outwardly spoken.
I think the final chapter was maybe a little rushed, especially towards the end? It did feel a bit abrupt, given I had to go back and reread a couple of times just to make sure it didn't end as quickly as I'd imagined. Maybe that was more to do with my enjoyment of the book, rather than its actual purpose in its ending. Who's to say?
Additionally, I appreciated that the discrimination towards the Fae continued on throughout the book. It kept up the frustration towards certain characters, as opinions changing so quickly is simply unrealistic and would've been odd to have such a violent 180 shift. Across the board, the author did a gorgeous job of building up the world, the environment, and all the little nitty-gritty details that made the book what it is, even down to the creatures, fruits, foods, and general atmosphere. As someone who pours themselves over worldbuilding, this really scratched an itch that I had in a lovely way. Good on the author! It shows that they really cared a great deal for this world and for their characters.
Overall, I would give the book approximately a 4.5/5 stars, rounded up! I'm very happy with this one, and I'm very grateful to NetGalley for offering this title as an eARC. As my first eARC read and reviewed, I look forward to doing more now that my expectations have been set! I look forward to purchasing this one when it hits the shelves, so it can sit prettily on mine.
August 20, 2022
Thank you go to BooksGoSocial and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this eARC.
This was an entertaining read that I enjoyed but was lacking in several ways.
The plot was relatively thin for a high fantasy read. The book's first half focuses on Ciar's childhood when she gets to know Mael. I enjoyed that part and seeing the development of the relationship. But the second half was not as satisfying. Some events occurred, but they seemed almost superficial. There didn't seem to be a fundamental underlying plot driving the story forward. It's hard even to explain.
Part of the issue with the plot was that any obstacles in the story seemed to dissipate with minimal effort or strife. For example, Ciar's grandparents didn't want her to be around a fae. But then, when they found out she was spending time with Mael, it was just allowed; they didn't move her back with her father. She spent every day, all day with Mael. It was explained that they feared he would retaliate if she were taken away, but this type of quick resolution seemed to happen throughout the book.
There were also many threads left hanging. What happened to various fae within the courts at the end? There was a prophecy/story. Did it come true? Certain people who took up a good portion of the book's second half disappeared at the end. It made the ending jarring and like finding that someone left out critical ingredients in your burrito. No, the guacamole and pico are not optional. They are necessary for the deliciousness of my burrito!
This was an entertaining read that I enjoyed but was lacking in several ways.
The plot was relatively thin for a high fantasy read. The book's first half focuses on Ciar's childhood when she gets to know Mael. I enjoyed that part and seeing the development of the relationship. But the second half was not as satisfying. Some events occurred, but they seemed almost superficial. There didn't seem to be a fundamental underlying plot driving the story forward. It's hard even to explain.
Part of the issue with the plot was that any obstacles in the story seemed to dissipate with minimal effort or strife. For example, Ciar's grandparents didn't want her to be around a fae. But then, when they found out she was spending time with Mael, it was just allowed; they didn't move her back with her father. She spent every day, all day with Mael. It was explained that they feared he would retaliate if she were taken away, but this type of quick resolution seemed to happen throughout the book.
There were also many threads left hanging. What happened to various fae within the courts at the end? There was a prophecy/story. Did it come true? Certain people who took up a good portion of the book's second half disappeared at the end. It made the ending jarring and like finding that someone left out critical ingredients in your burrito. No, the guacamole and pico are not optional. They are necessary for the deliciousness of my burrito!
January 4, 2025
“The blast of frigid air hit the little town on the edge of the forest like the first storm of winter, blowing from a land that wasn't there.” (now THAT's how you start a prologue)
“Even if we are not bound by our words the way they are, the Fae cannot own you unless you let them.”
“You are far too interesting to allow the nixies to eat.”
this is my first time reading a book of the faerie sort, and i have to say that i am sufficiently impressed. it got me out of my reading slump, that's for sure. it took me a bit to become fully immersed as with every book, but there was a turning point where it picked up the pace and got me going until i got to the last page. the setting is immediately engaging due to the detailed worldbuilding, but it is never too intense and overwhelming. our lead, lady ciar eckstein, is lovable (and the dangerous, romantic fae boy mael is simply dreamy), her romance with mael is a sweet and wholesome, though thorny at points, slow burn that gets you rooting for both of them, and the folklore serves as a great backdrop to the story and the romance. some of the townspeople seem a little flat, but the romance between mael and ciar more than make up for it. there are also a few missed commas here and there, but my eyes skipped over them anyway. faerie silver and iron cold features such beautiful, enchanting writing that is imaginative and descriptive and never tedious. the story that ciar's mother tells her in the beginning is the sweetest, too. vic malachai's work is exciting and enchanting, the stuff of dreams. thank you, netgalley, for the ARC!
“Even if we are not bound by our words the way they are, the Fae cannot own you unless you let them.”
“You are far too interesting to allow the nixies to eat.”
this is my first time reading a book of the faerie sort, and i have to say that i am sufficiently impressed. it got me out of my reading slump, that's for sure. it took me a bit to become fully immersed as with every book, but there was a turning point where it picked up the pace and got me going until i got to the last page. the setting is immediately engaging due to the detailed worldbuilding, but it is never too intense and overwhelming. our lead, lady ciar eckstein, is lovable (and the dangerous, romantic fae boy mael is simply dreamy), her romance with mael is a sweet and wholesome, though thorny at points, slow burn that gets you rooting for both of them, and the folklore serves as a great backdrop to the story and the romance. some of the townspeople seem a little flat, but the romance between mael and ciar more than make up for it. there are also a few missed commas here and there, but my eyes skipped over them anyway. faerie silver and iron cold features such beautiful, enchanting writing that is imaginative and descriptive and never tedious. the story that ciar's mother tells her in the beginning is the sweetest, too. vic malachai's work is exciting and enchanting, the stuff of dreams. thank you, netgalley, for the ARC!
July 16, 2022
This was the first book I found on Net Galley and I’m incredibly thankful for the opportunity to read it! I finished this book within a few hours and I absolutely loved every part of it. The main character is relatable, and I loved seeing how she changes throughout the book. The plot was interesting and executed really well. I loved getting to know the other characters and I loved that Ciar didn’t let anyone influence her decisions. She made her own decisions and formed her own opinions. I loved how independent she strived to be and I loved her caring nature. The world building was fun to read about and I absolutely loved the portrayal of the fae. This was such a great book and it was impossible to put down!
August 8, 2022
**Thank you to NetGalley for this eARC. all thoughts and opinions are my own**
First, the cover captured my eye, it's so pretty, and then the synopsis. I love anything to do with Fae Fantasy, and this book has that.
When I started the prologue the imagery of a horse eating a dog, really put me off. I own horses and even though this is fiction, it didn't sit right with me.
I continued reading and was confused as it starts off with our FMC only being seven years old, when her mother dies and her and her brother are sent to live with their grandparents, who happen to live near Faerie, or border along an entryway.
This is where Ciar meets Mael, a fae boy, roughly the same age. They begin a friendship over the years until she is sent away for school. They make a promise to each other, that he will have a house and a place for her in Faerie when they meet again.
This is where things got very confusing for me. Ciar gets taken by Mael when she is roughly eighteen and taken back to Faerie, where she and he get into an argument which leads her to be stolen by another fae.
There she becomes a nanny of sorts to this Fae's daughter. a whole bunch of things get talked about but not truly explained, and then suddenly things take another turn, without any real explanation of how and why, and things just simply carry on to a HEA.
This story has a lot of potential and promise, if the things that were spoken about were explained more, and what their importance had to the overall story, rather than just something magical to be spoken about.
I did like the friendship and further relationship between Mael and Ciar. It was really sweet how they started out as childhood friends and then became romantically involved later on.
First, the cover captured my eye, it's so pretty, and then the synopsis. I love anything to do with Fae Fantasy, and this book has that.
When I started the prologue the imagery of a horse eating a dog, really put me off. I own horses and even though this is fiction, it didn't sit right with me.
I continued reading and was confused as it starts off with our FMC only being seven years old, when her mother dies and her and her brother are sent to live with their grandparents, who happen to live near Faerie, or border along an entryway.
This is where Ciar meets Mael, a fae boy, roughly the same age. They begin a friendship over the years until she is sent away for school. They make a promise to each other, that he will have a house and a place for her in Faerie when they meet again.
This is where things got very confusing for me. Ciar gets taken by Mael when she is roughly eighteen and taken back to Faerie, where she and he get into an argument which leads her to be stolen by another fae.
There she becomes a nanny of sorts to this Fae's daughter. a whole bunch of things get talked about but not truly explained, and then suddenly things take another turn, without any real explanation of how and why, and things just simply carry on to a HEA.
This story has a lot of potential and promise, if the things that were spoken about were explained more, and what their importance had to the overall story, rather than just something magical to be spoken about.
I did like the friendship and further relationship between Mael and Ciar. It was really sweet how they started out as childhood friends and then became romantically involved later on.
July 30, 2022
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for an e-ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
3.5 stars rounded up to 4
"Fae gifts always come with a price, sweetheart, especially when they seem free."
I was torn with this book, because while there was a lot to like, a few things were a little off for me. I don't know whether that's a problem with the book or a problem with me and my reading mood recently.
Things I liked:
- the whole depiction of the Fae and Faerie itself. It was so otherworldly and brutal and scary and alien. I really loved this aspect of the book.
- the idea of the land of Faerie existing almost overlapping with human lands, meaning trade was possible
- the depiction of the Unseelie and Seelie courts, and instead of one being 'evil' and the other 'good', both had grey areas because that's just the nature of Fae
- the world setting and world building was very interesting
Things I didn't like as much:
- at times the prose felt extremely dry, and the book felt it lacked any real action or excitement
- there were a lot of characters introduced in quite quick succession and I found myself getting confused about who was who at times
- while the plot itself was engaging, it moved very slowly
Overall, I enjoyed the read but found it fell flat in some areas for me.
3.5 stars rounded up to 4
"Fae gifts always come with a price, sweetheart, especially when they seem free."
I was torn with this book, because while there was a lot to like, a few things were a little off for me. I don't know whether that's a problem with the book or a problem with me and my reading mood recently.
Things I liked:
- the whole depiction of the Fae and Faerie itself. It was so otherworldly and brutal and scary and alien. I really loved this aspect of the book.
- the idea of the land of Faerie existing almost overlapping with human lands, meaning trade was possible
- the depiction of the Unseelie and Seelie courts, and instead of one being 'evil' and the other 'good', both had grey areas because that's just the nature of Fae
- the world setting and world building was very interesting
Things I didn't like as much:
- at times the prose felt extremely dry, and the book felt it lacked any real action or excitement
- there were a lot of characters introduced in quite quick succession and I found myself getting confused about who was who at times
- while the plot itself was engaging, it moved very slowly
Overall, I enjoyed the read but found it fell flat in some areas for me.
July 25, 2022
Ciar moves to Brinley to live with her grandparents after the death of her mother, her ears still so full of her mother’s stories about Faerie that she doesn’t heed the warnings about dangerous Fae. The town’s children play games near the border between the human world and Faerie, marked by a stream, and they dare each other to get as close as they can to crossing. Only Ciar is brave (and foolish) enough. On the other side she meets Mael, a Fae boy recently escaped from a coup in the Unseelie Court. Ciar and Mael grow up together, despite the concern and pity from the people of Brinley who think Ciar will be lost to Faerie forever. The Ciar goes away to school and, despite Mael’s promises that they will have a place to live together once she finished her schooling, they do not see each other again.
Until the day Mael comes to collect her—fae promises do not come without a price.
This scratched very specific fae itch for me. The world is incredibly vivid and the faerie lore is rooted in a mix of Irish and Scottish traditions. There’s also a great flip on usual takes of the Seelie and Unseelie courts - the sympathetic side is the Unseelie, who are usually portrayed as the “bad guys.”
Ciar’s character development follows her from spoiled, naive child to reckless but well-meaning teenager to independent young woman. I love the contrast with Mael, because they are both caring in their own way, but the cultural differences of fae and human means this comes across very differently. Their relationship is beautiful in the way it grew from the foundations formed when they were children. There was a moment towards the end when Ciar is looking at a series of wood carvings that show a human girl falling in love with a faerie, and “In every panel the Seelie lord was looking at her.” That made me a bit teary, since it perfectly sums up Mael - everything he does, he does for Ciar (even if there’s a lot of faerie logic involved).
While Ciar and Mael are the focus (deservedly) there isn’t a single character in the cast that feels one-dimensional, from the baker who gives Ciar iced buns for free to Ciar’s gaggle of school friends. It’s such a rounded, deep book, and I adored it.
I received a free copy from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Until the day Mael comes to collect her—fae promises do not come without a price.
This scratched very specific fae itch for me. The world is incredibly vivid and the faerie lore is rooted in a mix of Irish and Scottish traditions. There’s also a great flip on usual takes of the Seelie and Unseelie courts - the sympathetic side is the Unseelie, who are usually portrayed as the “bad guys.”
Ciar’s character development follows her from spoiled, naive child to reckless but well-meaning teenager to independent young woman. I love the contrast with Mael, because they are both caring in their own way, but the cultural differences of fae and human means this comes across very differently. Their relationship is beautiful in the way it grew from the foundations formed when they were children. There was a moment towards the end when Ciar is looking at a series of wood carvings that show a human girl falling in love with a faerie, and “In every panel the Seelie lord was looking at her.” That made me a bit teary, since it perfectly sums up Mael - everything he does, he does for Ciar (even if there’s a lot of faerie logic involved).
While Ciar and Mael are the focus (deservedly) there isn’t a single character in the cast that feels one-dimensional, from the baker who gives Ciar iced buns for free to Ciar’s gaggle of school friends. It’s such a rounded, deep book, and I adored it.
I received a free copy from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
August 29, 2022
2.5 stars
Thank you Netgalley and the author for a copy of this ARC. All thoughts are my own.
Initial Thoughts
Whilst the premise of this book sounds unique and promising, the execution fell quite flat for me early into reading it.
What's great about this book?
- I liked the unique setup between Faerie and the humans. I enjoyed that their interactions felt foreign compared to other fae fantasy novels I've read. The lines normally drawn between realms isn't as obvious here, and I appreciated this. The Seelie/Unseelie courts also were represented differently and I liked the author's twist on that.
- Whilst I wasn't a big fan of reading from a juvenile point of view, I appreciated the journey Ciar and Mael shared, stemming from quite a young age into adulthood. It made their connection through some of the dubious moments feel more realistic than others made.
Things I didn't quite enjoy
- The biggest issue I held for this book was it was long-winded and dry at many points, and I lost any interest far too early into the book because of this.
- There were moments where the plot devices used felt clunky and the sudden pacing changes were jarring.
- Many characters introduced in succession without little reason or context for them to appear other than to progress the story. I often grew confused for their placement in the world.
- I also didn't like the FMC all that much and given she is the main narrator of this world, this affected my overall opinion of the reading experience.
Final thoughts
I wish I could say I enjoyed this book more than I had, especially given the clever concept of the world the author created.
Thank you Netgalley and the author for a copy of this ARC. All thoughts are my own.
Initial Thoughts
Whilst the premise of this book sounds unique and promising, the execution fell quite flat for me early into reading it.
What's great about this book?
- I liked the unique setup between Faerie and the humans. I enjoyed that their interactions felt foreign compared to other fae fantasy novels I've read. The lines normally drawn between realms isn't as obvious here, and I appreciated this. The Seelie/Unseelie courts also were represented differently and I liked the author's twist on that.
- Whilst I wasn't a big fan of reading from a juvenile point of view, I appreciated the journey Ciar and Mael shared, stemming from quite a young age into adulthood. It made their connection through some of the dubious moments feel more realistic than others made.
Things I didn't quite enjoy
- The biggest issue I held for this book was it was long-winded and dry at many points, and I lost any interest far too early into the book because of this.
- There were moments where the plot devices used felt clunky and the sudden pacing changes were jarring.
- Many characters introduced in succession without little reason or context for them to appear other than to progress the story. I often grew confused for their placement in the world.
- I also didn't like the FMC all that much and given she is the main narrator of this world, this affected my overall opinion of the reading experience.
Final thoughts
I wish I could say I enjoyed this book more than I had, especially given the clever concept of the world the author created.
July 27, 2022
I decided to download this book on a whim, it had a cute premise, and I was looking for something that was not as dark as the books I have been reading recently. This book follows Ciar, who after her mother dies is sent to live with her grandparents in a small town. Her grandparents guard the bridge to Faerie, until one day Ciar accepted a dare and meets Mael, a young Fae boy. What follows is almost a decade of these two growing up together and what happens to them.
Long story short, I started this book at about 9:00 PM the night before. After a few pages I thought I was going to have to really push through to finish the book. Next thing I knew it was almost 3:00 AM and I was more than halfway done with it. This book far exceeded my expectations and I loved every second of the journey.
What I liked: The author’s writing style in general. This book was so much fun to read and the way Malachai easily transitioned between settings and time periods made this book so fluid. In regards to the book itself, the characters were well developed and the interactions between Mael and Ciar were where the writing excelled. While most stories say that the lead female is special, or different, we actually get to see how this impacts Ciar in the future.
To keep in mind: If you are going into this as a heavy romance, you may be disappointed. This book focuses more on the developing relationship between the two characters.
Rating: I loved this book! Ciar and Mael were an amazing couple and I just want to read more about them. I highly recommend checking this book out.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Long story short, I started this book at about 9:00 PM the night before. After a few pages I thought I was going to have to really push through to finish the book. Next thing I knew it was almost 3:00 AM and I was more than halfway done with it. This book far exceeded my expectations and I loved every second of the journey.
What I liked: The author’s writing style in general. This book was so much fun to read and the way Malachai easily transitioned between settings and time periods made this book so fluid. In regards to the book itself, the characters were well developed and the interactions between Mael and Ciar were where the writing excelled. While most stories say that the lead female is special, or different, we actually get to see how this impacts Ciar in the future.
To keep in mind: If you are going into this as a heavy romance, you may be disappointed. This book focuses more on the developing relationship between the two characters.
Rating: I loved this book! Ciar and Mael were an amazing couple and I just want to read more about them. I highly recommend checking this book out.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 31, 2022
First, thank you so much for the ARC in exchange for a review!
I thought this was a fun read and it didn’t take too much time to read either! It was pretty easy to follow, even if a few parts did seem to jump around a bit. In fact, I think the jumping was the only thing that I was uncertain about! I liked the characters and the different response to the story—it seemed like a reasonable amount of people supported it versus being apprehensive. I also enjoyed the friendship and romance between Ciar and Mael! It was a good read truly!
The only reason it isn’t a 5 star is mostly on my end. I’m always a bit hesitant with faerie romances just because it’s out of my typical read, but this one was good. If you like that kind of thing, then this is definitely worth it!
Thank you again for the ARC! I’m grateful to have been able to read it and I really enjoyed it!
I thought this was a fun read and it didn’t take too much time to read either! It was pretty easy to follow, even if a few parts did seem to jump around a bit. In fact, I think the jumping was the only thing that I was uncertain about! I liked the characters and the different response to the story—it seemed like a reasonable amount of people supported it versus being apprehensive. I also enjoyed the friendship and romance between Ciar and Mael! It was a good read truly!
The only reason it isn’t a 5 star is mostly on my end. I’m always a bit hesitant with faerie romances just because it’s out of my typical read, but this one was good. If you like that kind of thing, then this is definitely worth it!
Thank you again for the ARC! I’m grateful to have been able to read it and I really enjoyed it!
August 3, 2022
Who doesn’t love a great Faerie storyline! Ciara starts off as a young child who is far braver than most of the adults in the story. Fae touched and able to travel back and forth between two worlds. She meets a young boy Mael and they strike up a friendship that will last forever.
What did I like? The book seems young adult because nothing other than kissing is mentioned. The story is rich and intriguing but some of it is kind of chopped off. I’m not sure if this will be a series or not. Ciara brings other humans to faerie but hopefully they will get a story as well.
Would I recommend or buy? Anyone who loves Fae books will love this story! I enjoyed and would definitely buy it for my collection! Five stars!
I received a complimentary copy to read and voluntarily left this opinion.
What did I like? The book seems young adult because nothing other than kissing is mentioned. The story is rich and intriguing but some of it is kind of chopped off. I’m not sure if this will be a series or not. Ciara brings other humans to faerie but hopefully they will get a story as well.
Would I recommend or buy? Anyone who loves Fae books will love this story! I enjoyed and would definitely buy it for my collection! Five stars!
I received a complimentary copy to read and voluntarily left this opinion.
July 23, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley, the publishers and Author Vic Malachai for allowing me to read this gem in exchange for a review.
Here’s my spoiler free thoughts ❤️
I am obsessed and fascinated with all things Fae at the moment and this book did not disappoint. It was really good! It was fast paced and featured strong and engaging characters.
I enjoyed how the plot developed and found myself constantly wanting to read more to see where things were going to go.
Would love there to be more in this world, particularly more details on what happens with Torc’an and his daughter.
Young girls stuck in a world of traditional customs meet the magic of Fairie. I totally recommend this to all YA & fantasy readers!
4.5/5
July 27, 2022
Ciar grew up with stories about magical but dark and dangerous Faerie.
Ciar and her brother are sent to live with their grandparents after their mothers death. Ciar is a wild child who prefers to break the rules and carve her own path despite coming from a prestigious family. She is determined to show her new found friends that she isn’t a “baby” by crossing a stream between the human realm into Faerie where she meets Mael a Fae boy. She of course strikes a bargain with him within hours despite warnings from her grandparents.
I absolutely loved the different take on Unseelie Fae, it was refreshing.
Strong multidimensional characters.
Strong word building
I would have loved to see a little more spice as the books is rated YA/NA.
Ciar and her brother are sent to live with their grandparents after their mothers death. Ciar is a wild child who prefers to break the rules and carve her own path despite coming from a prestigious family. She is determined to show her new found friends that she isn’t a “baby” by crossing a stream between the human realm into Faerie where she meets Mael a Fae boy. She of course strikes a bargain with him within hours despite warnings from her grandparents.
I absolutely loved the different take on Unseelie Fae, it was refreshing.
Strong multidimensional characters.
Strong word building
I would have loved to see a little more spice as the books is rated YA/NA.
July 31, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for granting me an advance copy of this book in return for my honest opinion.
I have never read anything from this author so I did not know what to expect. I have not seen any mentions if the books on any book sites or in any bookclubs and, after reading this book, am at a loss as to why.
I was so surprised to absolutely fall in love with this book and very happy to have discovered such a wonderful author!
I fell in love with Ciar and Mael. The good vs evil plot was beatifully wove into the story of the Ferie world.
I highly recommend this paranormal fantasy and will be reading more books by Vic Malachi.
I have never read anything from this author so I did not know what to expect. I have not seen any mentions if the books on any book sites or in any bookclubs and, after reading this book, am at a loss as to why.
I was so surprised to absolutely fall in love with this book and very happy to have discovered such a wonderful author!
I fell in love with Ciar and Mael. The good vs evil plot was beatifully wove into the story of the Ferie world.
I highly recommend this paranormal fantasy and will be reading more books by Vic Malachi.
August 9, 2022
So I went into this book very excited because I have not read a fantasy book in a minute, so I had medium height expectations. Sadly, I was let down. This plot line was all over the place in a very short summary.
We follow Ciar/Collis/Ciara from a very young age as she grows up alongside a young fae named Mael. The fae in this world are very hated by humans, and it is seen as a curse if a young woman is to be liked by one. As they grow up, she learns more and more about their world and falls in love with Mael in the process.
This plot just has so many ideas jammed into the pages that it felt so fast going from one thing to another. once we get into the middle of the book after her schooling, it feels like we are reading an entirely different book as now it is about educating the Fae's and not centering around Ciar and Mael until the end.
I did, however, like this story's interpretation of the fae. Here we get the Seelie, the bad guys, and the Unseelie, who are good. There are court politics that we get to learn but mainly about their working hierarchy system. There is so much that is minorly discussed that I wish would have been explained in full. The character I also liked the most was Mael. He was the most interesting and proved the most substance even though he was gone for half of the book. (Even tho I find it weird that Mael did not return during this time to save Ciar ?)
Our main girl was not super enjoyable and does not feel as though her personality aged alongside her and read very childish at times. I understand this is a YA, but this character learns a lot and experiences a lot, and I feel that should affect how she speaks and thinks.
We follow Ciar/Collis/Ciara from a very young age as she grows up alongside a young fae named Mael. The fae in this world are very hated by humans, and it is seen as a curse if a young woman is to be liked by one. As they grow up, she learns more and more about their world and falls in love with Mael in the process.
This plot just has so many ideas jammed into the pages that it felt so fast going from one thing to another. once we get into the middle of the book after her schooling, it feels like we are reading an entirely different book as now it is about educating the Fae's and not centering around Ciar and Mael until the end.
I did, however, like this story's interpretation of the fae. Here we get the Seelie, the bad guys, and the Unseelie, who are good. There are court politics that we get to learn but mainly about their working hierarchy system. There is so much that is minorly discussed that I wish would have been explained in full. The character I also liked the most was Mael. He was the most interesting and proved the most substance even though he was gone for half of the book. (Even tho I find it weird that Mael did not return during this time to save Ciar ?)
Our main girl was not super enjoyable and does not feel as though her personality aged alongside her and read very childish at times. I understand this is a YA, but this character learns a lot and experiences a lot, and I feel that should affect how she speaks and thinks.
July 20, 2022
Clean read
I like how this story starts in childhood and goes until the main characters are grown.
I love the dynamic of friendship between the too.
I love how the interaction of the main characters as children is what shapes their future.
I do wish that we got closure on the Seelie court and the daughter that was left behind.
It’s saddens me that we got to meet these characters at the other court but then never hear about the.m again.
We never find out why that mother got sick and died.
We never find out if the Seelie court had a change of heart since the human girls came.
Also
Overall great read and I enjoyed it.
I like how this story starts in childhood and goes until the main characters are grown.
I love the dynamic of friendship between the too.
I love how the interaction of the main characters as children is what shapes their future.
I do wish that we got closure on the Seelie court and the daughter that was left behind.
It’s saddens me that we got to meet these characters at the other court but then never hear about the.m again.
We never find out why that mother got sick and died.
We never find out if the Seelie court had a change of heart since the human girls came.
Also
Overall great read and I enjoyed it.
August 8, 2022
Rating: 3.5/5
The cover of this book is what drew me in, then to find out that it was fae fantasy, I knew I had to read it and I was not disappointed. If you love reading YA fantasy, YA romances that have slow burn and are friends to lovers then this is a book you should read. The character building and the relationships throughout the book really made this a book that people interested in getting into fantasy should read. The world building was really brought to life with the way Malachai writing style, I loved all the attention to details from the smallest detail to the large ones.
The only reason why I did not rate this book higher is I felt that in 60% of the book I would have had more of connection with the MFC but I did not. I felt as if there were a lot of unanswered questions as well. I wanted more of a dialog between the older Mael and Ciar but we really didn’t get much, like we did when they were younger. I also would have liked to know more about the role of a consort in the Unseelie court. I would have liked to have more details about the roles in the courts, and to know what the woodcarving was about at the ending. Did Ciar have a better understanding of it and why is that.
Other than that, I did enjoy this book, and look forward to seeing what else the author has in store for us.
I want to thank Netgalley and BooksGoSocial for allowing the opportunity to read and review this book.
The cover of this book is what drew me in, then to find out that it was fae fantasy, I knew I had to read it and I was not disappointed. If you love reading YA fantasy, YA romances that have slow burn and are friends to lovers then this is a book you should read. The character building and the relationships throughout the book really made this a book that people interested in getting into fantasy should read. The world building was really brought to life with the way Malachai writing style, I loved all the attention to details from the smallest detail to the large ones.
The only reason why I did not rate this book higher is I felt that in 60% of the book I would have had more of connection with the MFC but I did not. I felt as if there were a lot of unanswered questions as well. I wanted more of a dialog between the older Mael and Ciar but we really didn’t get much, like we did when they were younger. I also would have liked to know more about the role of a consort in the Unseelie court. I would have liked to have more details about the roles in the courts, and to know what the woodcarving was about at the ending. Did Ciar have a better understanding of it and why is that.
Other than that, I did enjoy this book, and look forward to seeing what else the author has in store for us.
I want to thank Netgalley and BooksGoSocial for allowing the opportunity to read and review this book.
October 11, 2022
Anything that has the word Fae or Faerie I am all over it! I absolutely adored Faerie Silver, Iron Cold! Sone of my favourite Fae books are ACOTAR, and Cruel Prince so I have higher expectations, and this book fulfilled them all! Romance - Check
Badass MC - Check
Action - Check !!
I cannot wait to read the second one and start my reread on KU!
Badass MC - Check
Action - Check !!
I cannot wait to read the second one and start my reread on KU!
July 24, 2022
A well thought out and descriptive Fae love story. I enjoyed seeing the characters grow from children to adult. Seelie and Unseelie alike are interesting. Yhe underlying current if what we expect from girls as a society is an important thread.
March 18, 2024
GREAT QUICK READ!
July 31, 2022
After her mother’s death, Ciar is sent to live with her grandparents on the edge of Faerie. While playing with the other children she can’t seem to fight the pull to cross into the magical world. Surely nothing will happen. Let’s find out.
Read if you like: YA high fantasy, fae stories, YA romance, slow burn, friends to lovers, first person storytelling.
Ciar grew up in quite an unusual way for the daughter of such a high-ranking lord. At seven she is suddenly free to frolic through the fields and forests surround her grandparents’ estate. The people of Brinley warn all the children never to enter Faerie. But Ciar is more curious than fearful, not having being raised on the local legends. One dare leads her over the stream and into the strange land. And she finds herself face to face with a young fae boy. Mael is beautiful and strange. And they both have so many questions. Ciar’s visits become more frequent and they form a bond that keeps the whole town waiting for the worst to happen for years. No one can trust a faerie.
I really enjoyed this book. It is a YA fae lover’s dream. There’s magic and mystery, bonds and promises, young love and courtly drama, the pull between the heart and duty and its all wrapped up in a storyteller fashion that is charming. The pair meet as children and make a match before Ciar fully understands the breadth of her decisions. She feels believably 16 and the romance is age appropriate. So don’t expect more than a few kisses. Mael is stoic and mysterious as all good fae love interests tend to be.
I couldn’t give it 5 stars because while the storytelling was fun it was also repetitive at times and I couldn’t tell if that was purposeful of an aural fashion or things that got left behind from edits. Either way, I was mentally pulled from the action.
I also wanted Ciar to have more discussion with Mael in the second half of the book. They were so close as children and then there’s a whole flurry of action (twice) and they’re together but communication isn’t great. And its not a miscommunication trope kind of moment. There’s just a lot going on so I get it but they were able to figure things out before and I missed the dynamic when the romance piece began. Basically, their romance needed more space on the page.
I also wish that some terms were more clearly explained. Some things are, and others we’re left to glean understanding which doesn’t always happen cleanly. This happens with the characters a couple of times as well. We suddenly get a lot of new characters all interacting and it was hard to keep them all straight for a moment there.
So, while this book had some weaknesses it didn’t lessen my desire to see what was in store for Ciar and Mael. Overall, I found it really fun and refreshing. A fantasy book that doesn’t rely on attempting to reinvent folklore. A new, classic fae story for teens!
Read if you like: YA high fantasy, fae stories, YA romance, slow burn, friends to lovers, first person storytelling.
Ciar grew up in quite an unusual way for the daughter of such a high-ranking lord. At seven she is suddenly free to frolic through the fields and forests surround her grandparents’ estate. The people of Brinley warn all the children never to enter Faerie. But Ciar is more curious than fearful, not having being raised on the local legends. One dare leads her over the stream and into the strange land. And she finds herself face to face with a young fae boy. Mael is beautiful and strange. And they both have so many questions. Ciar’s visits become more frequent and they form a bond that keeps the whole town waiting for the worst to happen for years. No one can trust a faerie.
I really enjoyed this book. It is a YA fae lover’s dream. There’s magic and mystery, bonds and promises, young love and courtly drama, the pull between the heart and duty and its all wrapped up in a storyteller fashion that is charming. The pair meet as children and make a match before Ciar fully understands the breadth of her decisions. She feels believably 16 and the romance is age appropriate. So don’t expect more than a few kisses. Mael is stoic and mysterious as all good fae love interests tend to be.
I couldn’t give it 5 stars because while the storytelling was fun it was also repetitive at times and I couldn’t tell if that was purposeful of an aural fashion or things that got left behind from edits. Either way, I was mentally pulled from the action.
I also wanted Ciar to have more discussion with Mael in the second half of the book. They were so close as children and then there’s a whole flurry of action (twice) and they’re together but communication isn’t great. And its not a miscommunication trope kind of moment. There’s just a lot going on so I get it but they were able to figure things out before and I missed the dynamic when the romance piece began. Basically, their romance needed more space on the page.
I also wish that some terms were more clearly explained. Some things are, and others we’re left to glean understanding which doesn’t always happen cleanly. This happens with the characters a couple of times as well. We suddenly get a lot of new characters all interacting and it was hard to keep them all straight for a moment there.
So, while this book had some weaknesses it didn’t lessen my desire to see what was in store for Ciar and Mael. Overall, I found it really fun and refreshing. A fantasy book that doesn’t rely on attempting to reinvent folklore. A new, classic fae story for teens!
August 8, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley for providing the eARC edition of Faerie Silver, Iron Cold in return for a fair and honest review!
Let me start with how bummed I was when this book was over, I wanted so much more! I have read a lot of books about Faerie/Fae and this one did not disappoint. There were a ton of classic references to the culture of Faerie including being unable to lie, using names in high regard, as well as their attitude towards magic, and being “perfect”.
I adore Ciar, her personality, and her personal growth. I was a little unsure about the beginning, the main characters started as children. But she grows from this mischievous little girl, into a teenager who wants to love her friend, to an independent woman who isn't afraid to throw attitude, or opinions in the face of opposing characters.
The setting just teems with life, detail, and magical realism. There are fully developed superstitions and beliefs that Ciar’s family believes deeply. Even the townspeople who believe fae are dangerous. No matter how small of a role, whoever Ciar deals with doesn’t come across as two-dimensional and boring. The Faerie and the creatures in it are incredibly detailed and the world that Ciar interacts with comes to life. While Ciar and Mael are the main characters in the book there isn’t a single character in the cast that feels one-dimensional, from the baker who gives Ciar iced buns for free to Ciar’s group of school friends who get twisted into her tale.
Vic Malachai has created a book that is very relaxing and whimsy until the day Mael comes to collect Ciar from her family — fae promises do not come without a price. It’s such a rounded, deep book, and I loved every bit of it.
Let me start with how bummed I was when this book was over, I wanted so much more! I have read a lot of books about Faerie/Fae and this one did not disappoint. There were a ton of classic references to the culture of Faerie including being unable to lie, using names in high regard, as well as their attitude towards magic, and being “perfect”.
I adore Ciar, her personality, and her personal growth. I was a little unsure about the beginning, the main characters started as children. But she grows from this mischievous little girl, into a teenager who wants to love her friend, to an independent woman who isn't afraid to throw attitude, or opinions in the face of opposing characters.
The setting just teems with life, detail, and magical realism. There are fully developed superstitions and beliefs that Ciar’s family believes deeply. Even the townspeople who believe fae are dangerous. No matter how small of a role, whoever Ciar deals with doesn’t come across as two-dimensional and boring. The Faerie and the creatures in it are incredibly detailed and the world that Ciar interacts with comes to life. While Ciar and Mael are the main characters in the book there isn’t a single character in the cast that feels one-dimensional, from the baker who gives Ciar iced buns for free to Ciar’s group of school friends who get twisted into her tale.
Vic Malachai has created a book that is very relaxing and whimsy until the day Mael comes to collect Ciar from her family — fae promises do not come without a price. It’s such a rounded, deep book, and I loved every bit of it.
September 16, 2022
Spoilers
My number one complaint with this novel is that it reads like a first, maybe second, draft. The grammar wasn’t particularly bad but there were mistakes, and the writing didn’t flow smoothly. I caught myself rereading the same paragraph over and over because it was either poorly written or so dull that I couldn’t focus on it. The storyline in general was very dull and nothing happened that felt like a truly high stakes moment or like the characters were in actual danger.
The characters also felt very much like a first draft. They had no depth and never changed throughout the story. We see the main character, Ciar, grow from seven years old to seventeen but her inner voice doesn’t mature and she repeatedly makes silly, childish decisions. Mael, Ciar’s “love interest,” also never changes.
Speaking of Ciar and Mael’s love for each other, I didn’t buy it. They met when Ciar was seven and she went off to school at thirteen. In that time, they played together but they never had a real, intense bonding moment. Somehow, though, this brief time spent together as children causes Mael to become obsessed with Ciar. Their romance was very bland and passionless. Ciar is literally kidnapped at one point and there was still no intense emotion when she’s rescued by Mael. Again, it reads like a first draft.
I truly hate to rate this book so low because it had the potential to be something really good. I think Vic Malachai has the talent to write something interesting but she needs better beta readers, at the least.
For other reviews, go to https://thebookandbeautyblog.com/
My number one complaint with this novel is that it reads like a first, maybe second, draft. The grammar wasn’t particularly bad but there were mistakes, and the writing didn’t flow smoothly. I caught myself rereading the same paragraph over and over because it was either poorly written or so dull that I couldn’t focus on it. The storyline in general was very dull and nothing happened that felt like a truly high stakes moment or like the characters were in actual danger.
The characters also felt very much like a first draft. They had no depth and never changed throughout the story. We see the main character, Ciar, grow from seven years old to seventeen but her inner voice doesn’t mature and she repeatedly makes silly, childish decisions. Mael, Ciar’s “love interest,” also never changes.
Speaking of Ciar and Mael’s love for each other, I didn’t buy it. They met when Ciar was seven and she went off to school at thirteen. In that time, they played together but they never had a real, intense bonding moment. Somehow, though, this brief time spent together as children causes Mael to become obsessed with Ciar. Their romance was very bland and passionless. Ciar is literally kidnapped at one point and there was still no intense emotion when she’s rescued by Mael. Again, it reads like a first draft.
I truly hate to rate this book so low because it had the potential to be something really good. I think Vic Malachai has the talent to write something interesting but she needs better beta readers, at the least.
For other reviews, go to https://thebookandbeautyblog.com/
August 6, 2022
Faerie Silver Iron Cold by Vic Malachi is everything a fantasy novel should be and more! The novel follows the life of a girl named Ciar who, after losing her mother to illness, is sent to live on the border of the faerie world with her grandparents. Ciar, called Collis in the old language, is a precocious child who accepts the local children’s dare to cross the stream into the Faerie Woods, meeting an unseelie faerie boy known as Mael. The two of them spend their days together, much to the horror of Ciar’s grandparents who fear the child will be spirited away to the faerie realm never to return.
When Ciar turns thirteen, her absent aristocratic father arranges to send her to school in the city and, despite a promise from Mael that he will be waiting for her when she returns each summer, the unlikely pair do not see one another for five years. As Ciar comes of age and prepares to marry, Mael comes back into her life igniting a breathtaking adventure through the faerie world.
Malachi’s prose is rich with otherworldly detail about faerie superstitions. Ciar and Mael are expertly drawn characters, and readers will delight in watching their relationship unfold over years. The novel allows readers to cross the boundary between the human and faerie lands alongside Ciar as it explores the difference between striking a faerie bargain and making a conscious choice for love. I loved it!
Thank you to NetGalley for providing a free copy of the book in exchange for a fair review.
When Ciar turns thirteen, her absent aristocratic father arranges to send her to school in the city and, despite a promise from Mael that he will be waiting for her when she returns each summer, the unlikely pair do not see one another for five years. As Ciar comes of age and prepares to marry, Mael comes back into her life igniting a breathtaking adventure through the faerie world.
Malachi’s prose is rich with otherworldly detail about faerie superstitions. Ciar and Mael are expertly drawn characters, and readers will delight in watching their relationship unfold over years. The novel allows readers to cross the boundary between the human and faerie lands alongside Ciar as it explores the difference between striking a faerie bargain and making a conscious choice for love. I loved it!
Thank you to NetGalley for providing a free copy of the book in exchange for a fair review.
August 13, 2022
This was a last minute request for me and I hadn't had time to read it. The author prompted me with a request to review if I had read it. Why didn't I start it as soon as I received it? I really wanted to read it in one sitting as I have got to say, for me it was a "can't put it down" book.
The characters are so beautifully portrayed, I loved that Ciar began her story about her Mother and the wonderful stories she told about the Fae which of course started Ciar's interest in them. When Ciar and her brother Elric come to live with their grandparents in Brinley, Ciar hears many more strories of the Fairie forest and did not heed the warnings to never go over the river but Ciar wanted to be liked and played river games with her new found friends, crossing into Fairie and once there she couldn't help but to return as often as she could, especially when she met a beautiful Fae boy named Mael.
When Ciar gets herself into trouble with the nasty Nixies in the water, Mael makes a bargain with her. Unbeknownst to Ciar, Mael gifts Ciar with items holding magic and once this begins, she is forever Maels, if only she knew what she had set in motion would Ciar have ever crossed the river?
I loved every word of this book and would love a sequel as there are so many more stories to tell about the other characters.
Thank you Netgalley and especially Vic Malachai for the opportunity to read and review this book. I would recommend it to any who love a good story but Paranormal fans in particular. A definite 5+ stars
The characters are so beautifully portrayed, I loved that Ciar began her story about her Mother and the wonderful stories she told about the Fae which of course started Ciar's interest in them. When Ciar and her brother Elric come to live with their grandparents in Brinley, Ciar hears many more strories of the Fairie forest and did not heed the warnings to never go over the river but Ciar wanted to be liked and played river games with her new found friends, crossing into Fairie and once there she couldn't help but to return as often as she could, especially when she met a beautiful Fae boy named Mael.
When Ciar gets herself into trouble with the nasty Nixies in the water, Mael makes a bargain with her. Unbeknownst to Ciar, Mael gifts Ciar with items holding magic and once this begins, she is forever Maels, if only she knew what she had set in motion would Ciar have ever crossed the river?
I loved every word of this book and would love a sequel as there are so many more stories to tell about the other characters.
Thank you Netgalley and especially Vic Malachai for the opportunity to read and review this book. I would recommend it to any who love a good story but Paranormal fans in particular. A definite 5+ stars
August 14, 2022
read if you like: worldbuilding (Faerie🔮🪄), fae, character-driven stories (vibes✨)
a fairytale-like read about love and learning to love; fae, humans, and the ways in which they try to bridge their cultural divide; choice and empowerment.
in this book's world, fae and their land of Faerie are thought to be dangerous or beguilingly pretty and pleasant. everyone knows the fae can be tricky. everyone knows the fae-touched don't come back. but do they really know the fae?
little Ciar, whose perspective we follow throughout the book, is enchanted with the fae, as a young girl befriending the Unseelie child Mael. we follow as they grow together, as Ciar crosses over into Faerie day after day despite all warnings to the contrary. we see the blossoming seeds of love between Ciar and Mael, and we see how that impacts the rest of the fae. choice and empowerment also come into play throughout the rest of the book, as Ciar and her school friends, seeking to break free of the constraints of a society where women's worth lie solely in their purity and marriage prospects, end up being empowered to make their own choices. the worldbuilding of Faerie also takes center-stage here, as we explore it through Ciar's unafraid eyes, and explore the differences between fae and humans - an allegory, to me, for cross-cultural appreciation.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley and am leaving this review voluntarily.
a fairytale-like read about love and learning to love; fae, humans, and the ways in which they try to bridge their cultural divide; choice and empowerment.
in this book's world, fae and their land of Faerie are thought to be dangerous or beguilingly pretty and pleasant. everyone knows the fae can be tricky. everyone knows the fae-touched don't come back. but do they really know the fae?
little Ciar, whose perspective we follow throughout the book, is enchanted with the fae, as a young girl befriending the Unseelie child Mael. we follow as they grow together, as Ciar crosses over into Faerie day after day despite all warnings to the contrary. we see the blossoming seeds of love between Ciar and Mael, and we see how that impacts the rest of the fae. choice and empowerment also come into play throughout the rest of the book, as Ciar and her school friends, seeking to break free of the constraints of a society where women's worth lie solely in their purity and marriage prospects, end up being empowered to make their own choices. the worldbuilding of Faerie also takes center-stage here, as we explore it through Ciar's unafraid eyes, and explore the differences between fae and humans - an allegory, to me, for cross-cultural appreciation.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley and am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 23, 2022
This was a delightful faerie story. It took me a couple of chapters to get into it, but once I did, I couldn't put it down.
I always love the worldbuilding with stories set in Faerie, and this was no exception- everyone's working from the same framework, but each author has their own unique spin on what Faerie is and what the rules are, and I loved reading how Malachai chose to portray the magic.
The content did seem a bit unbalanced at times. There were almost too many details about Ciara's friends, yet the narrative was a bit sparse on other details that were more important to the plot, such as Ciara's desire to actually be in Faerie. At times, it did feel like Ciara was more reacting to the world around her and the decisions others were making instead of actively making her own choices.
It felt like either a few paragraphs were missing from Ciara's internal dialog about her making a decision or an honest, on-page conversation between Mael and Ciara about her decision was missing. As it was, I was sometimes a little taken aback when the narrative showed that a decision had been made without showing any of the decision-making process leading up to that, making me not fully believe Ciara had been the one to make that decision (rather than just going along with Mael's plans).
Still a really enjoyable story despite this though- recommended if you enjoy stories about fae!
Content: clean, some violence
3.5
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
I always love the worldbuilding with stories set in Faerie, and this was no exception- everyone's working from the same framework, but each author has their own unique spin on what Faerie is and what the rules are, and I loved reading how Malachai chose to portray the magic.
The content did seem a bit unbalanced at times. There were almost too many details about Ciara's friends, yet the narrative was a bit sparse on other details that were more important to the plot, such as Ciara's desire to actually be in Faerie. At times, it did feel like Ciara was more reacting to the world around her and the decisions others were making instead of actively making her own choices.
It felt like either a few paragraphs were missing from Ciara's internal dialog about her making a decision or an honest, on-page conversation between Mael and Ciara about her decision was missing. As it was, I was sometimes a little taken aback when the narrative showed that a decision had been made without showing any of the decision-making process leading up to that, making me not fully believe Ciara had been the one to make that decision (rather than just going along with Mael's plans).
Still a really enjoyable story despite this though- recommended if you enjoy stories about fae!
Content: clean, some violence
3.5
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
January 5, 2023
This fae story subverted a few expected Fae story tropes that I really appreciated in regards to the unseelie and Fae border crossing. I also really liked that we got to spend time to the two MCs as children. Often, these integral relationship blocks are skipped over so the reader doesn’t get to experience the integral bonding moments. So this story gets kudos for that. What I struggled with the most was how exposition was presented throughout the story that kind of ruined the experience for me. For instance, we would meet a new character and get a long winded explanation of who they were at a seemingly random point in the story when they had nothing to do with what was happening at that point in time. I wasn’t ever able to bind with the female lead. There wasn’t much for me to think she was unique person with unique motivations, nor was she clever or humorous or gifted at anything, just a vehicle for a sad backstory and for something the plot to cling to. Because of this, I didn’t care much about the romance aspect, because I wasn’t invested in the FLs happiness. Overall, interesting approach to a common trope, but not executed to my personal taste.
July 29, 2022
3.5/5
-Friends to Lovers
(There is no spice. It’s a wholesome read)
It’s hard to put in words what I like in the book besides Mael (MMC). The FMC (Ciar) inner dialogue sounded way older than her described age and It had me questioning how old she really was until she left for school. The world building was great I could picture everything the author described from the human side and just a skip across the stream to the Faerie side. As well as the creature that lived there.
I feel like Ciar didn’t really develop much in the book. From 7 to 17 she still felt the same.
I did enjoy how the author implemented storytelling within the story. Those small tale were fun to read.
I personally wished that Ciar could have taken Áine with her since the little girl was benefiting from her care. I also want to know how the Seelie court managed since one of her friends decided to go back and be a breeder and what role Ciar played as consort.
Overall, I did enjoy the book especially when Mael was around. Also, I wouldn’t mind reading about Edela and Cináed’s relationship.
-Friends to Lovers
(There is no spice. It’s a wholesome read)
It’s hard to put in words what I like in the book besides Mael (MMC). The FMC (Ciar) inner dialogue sounded way older than her described age and It had me questioning how old she really was until she left for school. The world building was great I could picture everything the author described from the human side and just a skip across the stream to the Faerie side. As well as the creature that lived there.
I feel like Ciar didn’t really develop much in the book. From 7 to 17 she still felt the same.
I did enjoy how the author implemented storytelling within the story. Those small tale were fun to read.
I personally wished that Ciar could have taken Áine with her since the little girl was benefiting from her care. I also want to know how the Seelie court managed since one of her friends decided to go back and be a breeder and what role Ciar played as consort.
Overall, I did enjoy the book especially when Mael was around. Also, I wouldn’t mind reading about Edela and Cináed’s relationship.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 11, 2022
As a young girl, Ciar wanders into Faerie and meets a Fae called Mael. They grow up as friends, but eventually Mael comes to the human realm to take Ciar back to the Unseelie court as his wife/consort. As readers, we learn about the Unseelie/Seelie courts and get a lot of detail about Fae customs.
I liked learning about the world, but this book was ALL plot. It moved very fast, and we really didn’t get to learn very much about the characters and how they felt about anything. Many side characters were introduced, but then never talked about again. I felt myself wondering why Mael was going through the trouble of searching for Ciar because I knew so little about their relationship and what they meant to each other. I liked the fairy tale feel of the writing, but I needed more from the story.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I liked learning about the world, but this book was ALL plot. It moved very fast, and we really didn’t get to learn very much about the characters and how they felt about anything. Many side characters were introduced, but then never talked about again. I felt myself wondering why Mael was going through the trouble of searching for Ciar because I knew so little about their relationship and what they meant to each other. I liked the fairy tale feel of the writing, but I needed more from the story.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
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