Fae's Song

Summer Court #1

by Helen Walton

The line between true love and magic is razor thin for this accidental enchantress…

Niamh

Not all magic is a gift. Mine certainly isn’t.

My singing voice binds men to me. Which is why I never should’ve left Earth or attended the royal ball. I certainly shouldn’t have opened my mouth.

But I did.

Now, the Fae prince thinks I’m his. He has no idea he’s just another victim of my power. I had no choice but to run.

Running away from what I feel for him, however, might prove impossible…

Fintan

I felt it when I first saw her. Then she opened her mouth to sing and removed all doubt.

Niamh is mine.

I don’t understand why she denies it. I don’t know why she ran.

All I know for certain is that I will find her. Even if it takes millennia.

Because she can run, but she can never hide.

Not from her fated mate…


Fae’s Song is the first book in the Summer Court fantasy romance series featuring powerful Fae royals who find their fated mates on their quest to save the Fae. It’s perfect for fans of romantasy, portal worlds, intrigue, suspense, heartfelt emotions, explosive chemistry, true love, and happily ever after.

Genres: Fantasy, Fae, Romance, Romantasy, Paranormal, Paranormal Romance, Fantasy Romance

230 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 3, 2022

About the author

Helen Walton is a tea drinking, chocoholic, romance writer. Stories are her obsession, and she adores creating sweet and sensual romances containing a sprinkling of humor and the all-important happy ending. She lives in South Australia with her family, and menagerie of quirky animals where they all take her away from her book world and demand to be fed. Lucky for them, she enjoys cooking but prefers baking.

Reviews

[Paranormal Kiss · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fae's Song is the story of the Summer Fae Prince, Fintan, and a songstress Fae, Niamh. It's about them finding each other and seeing their romance progress. It's not simple since Fintan is royalty and Niamh's song has the power to seduce. But that's not all, there is some trouble afoot for the Fae in the human realm.

Fae's Song starts out strong until it begins skipping forward in time by decades and even centuries. At that point it lost the depth of the story for me. Things that should have had more impact had less and events that should have been delved into further were glossed over. Honestly, it felt like it became a cliff notes version of the story. It was disappointing and I'm not sure that I'll have any desire to read the next book.

I received a free copy of this book via Helen Walton's Review Club and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Diana · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF at 30%. Premise of story is interesting, but I didn’t feel a pull to either MCs.

[Anna Jason · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the first in a series featuring fae, spiced romance and the classic struggle between good and evil. The story started out strong but then lost that as the story went on and the time jumps started. I just wasn’t fully invested into this one as it held promise in the beginning.

[bre · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was fun. It all happened quite quickly, but I love fae novels, so I still enjoyed it. A super quick read!

I picked this up at the Fiction & Friction Book Convention 2023 in Adelaide.

[Hannah · Rating 3 out of 5]

It felt rushed but otherwise pretty good book

[Kim Pow · Rating 1 out of 5]

That's a no from me

I'm not sure, maybe I missed something... But, this was pointless, dull even. The characters, world and story flow were all dull.

[Tabitha · Rating 2 out of 5]

I don’t like the author using “Faes” as a plural for “Fae,” which is already a plural noun. I don’t like the fetishization of female purity in this novel. The FMC is a 50-year old faerie who has never been kissed, never had sex, never masturbated, and never experienced any attraction to a man until she met the MMC. He loooooves being her one and only, of course, despite the fact that he didn’t save himself for her in turn. 🙄 oh, and the fact that she’s never had a crush is used as part of the evidence that the MMC is her true/fated mate, since as we all know, you can only be attracted to people you’re destined to spend eternity with… [cut to me, burying all my exes in the Everglades while blasting Taylor Swift lyrics…🥁🎵 She just gets me, man!]

And just to make it all a little creepier, let me casually just throw in that in this book, the fae don’t experience their first heat until 100 years old… now I don’t know about you guys, but it sounds like the FMC is only 50% of the way to reaching sexual maturity. I got my first period at 14, so is she the faerie equivalent of a 7-year-old??? No wonder she’s never been attracted to any men? She’s an infant? I know she’s not, but—Bleaugh! Fix your timelines, authors! You’re making it creepy!

After the MCs meet and mate, the rest of the book is told in short little snippets of time, spaced over hundreds of years, always feeling like a recap and not really as dialogue-focused and action-packed. Emotional scenes like births and deaths are over in a flash, so you don’t really get time to process it all. It felt like the first half of the book was important to the author, and the second half was mostly just setting the scene to get to wherever they wanted to go in book 2. I can’t say I’m very interested in picking up the next book, if I’m honest.

[Mercedez · Rating 3 out of 5]

★★☆☆☆Characters
★★☆☆☆ Character Development
★★☆☆☆ Spicy
★★★☆☆Plot/Storyline
★★☆☆☆ Ending
★★☆☆☆ Writing


Favorite Quote:
“She was here.
Dia. No. Not my Niamh.
Not her on one of these pyres.”

What Kept/Didn’t Keep Me Reading:
For a quick read, it wasn’t half bad. Do I wish it was more drawn out? Yes. I felt this book alone probably could have been divided into 2 different books. It’s definitely a genre of book you don’t have to put a lot of brain work into reading. The overall story just covers the main things that happen to both characters that seemed of importance; The beginning had me curious but was a little let down that once her struggle was solved it never made an appearance later—even in her lineage. The middle was quite slow, kind of like a filler episode until they reached the end when things seemed to get more action packed. Unfortunately the ending seemed pretty cut and dry, but somehow this is made into a series?

What Would I Read Next from This Author:
This was a whimsical impulse read due to getting it for free via stuff your kindle day. While the story itself was interesting; I don’t see myself reading the rest of the series because I tend to like more drawn out narration; Maybe if I feel impulsive for a quick read again.

[Luc · Rating 5 out of 5]

Niamh is the daughter of a once famous Fae singer and was raised on Earth. Along with her parents, she is very happy to grow Barley for her father's famous lager across Ireland, where they live as well as the world.
Her secret passion, however, is singing and she has the voice for it. The only problem is that her voice is so enticing that men, who ear it, individually claim that Niamh is their fated mate and that leads to fights where she performs. As a matter of fact, the last time she performed, a brawl ensued and her father was severely wounded trying to breakup the fight. This put a damper on her career aspirations.

Suddenly, the Veil opens between the Fae and Earth Realms and Krieg., the Fae envoy summons Niamh to perform at his son's Fintan Birthday Ball. She doesn't want to appear but her father states that no one can disobey a King's summons.
At the Summer court palace, Niamh and Fintan meet in the atrium near the Fae water source of life and they experience the unmistakable attraction of fated mates.

The author crafted a very well written story that grips the reader from the start with it's fill of Magic, Love, Jealousy, Paranormal species of all types, Cupidity, tragedy, adventure and, Romance.
I highly recommend this book and rate it 5 Stars.

[Stardust El · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fae’s Song is a gentle, romantic prequel to Helen Walton’s Summer Court series that blends music, magic, and a hint of fate. We follow Niamh, a human with a voice so powerful it enchants anyone who hears it—sometimes a little too well. When she’s invited to sing at a Fae royal ball, her song unexpectedly binds Prince Fintan, setting off a whirlwind of tension, longing, and magical miscommunication.

Niamh’s struggle to trust her own heart—versus the influence of her voice—is an interesting twist on the usual “fated mates” storyline. And Prince Fintan? He’s determined, loyal, and completely convinced they’re meant to be. Watching him chase after her (respectfully!) gives the romance a nice slow-burn quality.

The world of the Summer Court is beautifully described, filled with glowing magic, shimmering ballrooms, and that classic fairytale atmosphere. It’s easy to get swept up in the dreamy setting and the emotional push-and-pull between the leads.

The plot itself is pretty straightforward, and while seasoned fantasy romance readers may find it a little familiar, it’s a solid and satisfying setup for the series. Think of it as a cozy intro into a magical world that promises bigger things ahead.

[Laura Moylan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Niamh O’Keefe has been summoned by King Diarmuid of the Summer Court of the Faerie. Her singing is different from her mother’s as another power is within. It calls men to her, as they believed she was their mate. She meets Prince Fintan and they are drawn to each other, but she refuses to speak. She sings for the Court. Prince Fintan is a sweetheart. I love the Fae Queen. The Prince is just so sweet with Niamh.

I really like the different take on the Fae and the Summerlands. I enjoy Sir Axis, although I want to bop him a couple of times. The book spans a lot of years. Plot twists. Tragedy. All in all a great read.

I received a free copy of this book via Helen Walton's Review Club and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Teresa Kleeman · Rating 4 out of 5]

You'll never know who your mate is

I enjoyed the way she wrote this book I love the way she talked about the fae. And the storyline was really good, kept me interested in what was going to happen next. Looking forward to book two.
Fintin and Niamh story is quite an adventure especially how they're beginning and how the ending of the relationship is. Niamh never in a million years would believe a Prince would fall in love with her and that he would be her mate. She had a beautiful gift of song and through her song she could enchant many men. And because of this she didn't really trust that the prince was her true mate. Read on to see how the prince convinces her that they are true mates.

[Leslie D Henderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this fantasy romance a lot! It was pretty fast-paced, with the MCs finding their fated mates & bonding pretty early on in the story,but thoroughly enjoyable that you get to see their relationship & family grow over hundreds of years. The plot was great but I didn't feel there was enough suspense throughout the story,but that's my opinion. Still enjoyed the inner workings of the fae society & how the MCs flourished in their relationship. There's definitely some spice thrown in the mix as well! All in all, I recommend this for those who love a good sappy, fae/fantasy romance.

I received a free copy of this book via Helen Walton's Review Club and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Rieka · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a very fast paced book! There's quite a few time jumps in the story but they flowed perfectly for how the story unfolds. I love how both realms are connected but yet only the fae can reach the Summer Court. This story could definitely be read as a standalone but it leaves you wanting more so I was very satisfied with knowing there was more to the story.

Niamh such a caring character and I love how her story line unfolds for. I wasn't expecting it to be an instant connection between her and Prince Fintan but I love how he knew and she was afraid to believe with could be anymore than her song. As much happiness that's in this book there's tragedy to that balances it out.

[M · Rating 5 out of 5]

Niamh and Fintan 4 ½ stars. - There were some parts of the narratives that keep repeating Niamh’s insecurities about her power. It is understandable considering Niamh is young in fae years but there were too many mentions of it. Other than that, the plot is very interesting. The world-building is fascinating. Niamh thought Fintan was bewitched but he was able to prove to her that they are fated mates. The story didn’t stop there. It is exciting where the author took the story. I can’t wait to read the next book! I received an advanced copy and voluntarily chose to review it.

[Tia · Rating 3 out of 5]

You were dropped into major plot points hard and fast, following a brief game of cat and mouse. I personally found the intimacy perhaps a touch overdone in some areas, particularly given the length of the book and the time jumps within but I can understand the need to deliver to fans of the genre. It's not a new epic series like some others, but for a quick fantasy romance it holds its own.

I received a free copy of this book via Helen Walton's Review Club on Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fae's Song was the first Helen Walton novel I have read. It is the first in the Fated Mates of the Fae Royals Summer Court series. I liked the characters Fintan and Niamh and their families. I enjoyed the writing and flow of the story until it started to jump decades then centuries in the future. It was disconcerting to have characters hundreds of years old playing hide and seek. Future stories in the series will involve Fintan and Niamh's children. I received a free copy of this book via Helen Walton's Review Club and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Cristina Machado · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the first in a series featuring fae, spiced romance and the classic struggle between good and evil. I loved the huge family that the protagonists built, which will certainly yield several interesting stories, but the series' proposal is more paranormal than fantasy, so I don't think I'll keep following it. But I can't help but recommend it to anyone who likes paranormal and portals romance, they will certainly be delighted with the story.
I received a free copy of this book via Helen Walton's Review Club and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Carole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fae’s Song is a fantasy story that traverse’s the veil between Human and Fae worlds with a narrative of a songstress who wields an unusual Fae power and the Prince who discovers she is his mate.
With adventure, intrigue and loves power fueling the tempest of this well written tale a wonderful addition has been made to the fantasy romance genre.

I received a free copy of this book via Helen Walton's Review Club and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Alyce Caswell · Rating 3 out of 5]

Niamh is a Fae with the gift of an enchanting voice, but it is more curse than blessing. Men who hear her sing believe she is theirs. So when a Fae prince decides she is his mate, she is sure he must be mistaken. But what if he's right?

This was a sweet story that didn't take too long to read, so it was a good decision to pair it with my evening pot of tea. I did find the multiple - and lengthy! - time skips a bit jarring, however. For readers not looking for anything too complicated.

[Alejandra Guerrero · Rating 2 out of 5]

It was choppy, with a lot of time jumps and even less worldbuilding than #2 in the series. I read that one first (Fae's Wolf), and if I hadn’t I would have been lost with some things that are explained there but only mentioned here as if we already know them. It felt like a prequel more than the first in the series.

[Cynthia R. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is a page turner. I couldn't put it down. It has intrigue, suspense, love, and a fantastic story line. It will hit all your emotions. I highly recommend it. Looking forward to book 2.

I received a free copy of this book via Helen Walton's Review Club and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Ez C · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read it as you would a textbook as I struggled to get invested in the first half. it feels like i missed a whole book worth of connections and backstory. You then get sucked in by the time they have their child is born.

I received a free copy of this book via Helen Walton's Review Club and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Courtney · Rating 4 out of 5]

The overall story line was impeccable, I just could not stay hooked 100%. Definitely worth the read; however, because in the right hands this novel could be amazing.

This novel had a lot of up and down moments for me. One moment, I was completely sure I wouldn't keep reading it; but then in the next second, something would grab my attention enough to pull me back in.

[Erin OBrien · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this! The instant attraction of fated mates. The uncertainty. I thought the jumps through time were a great way to show how life moves for immortal beings. But how life can suddenly come to a head and surprise you in an unexpected way.
Tissue alert!
I look forward to more! 5 stars.

[Sissy Satterfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just love Fae stories and this one did not disappoint me. I enjoyed this authors writing style which is important for me. The Fated Mates and the characters were great and kept me interested and turning pages, to the end. I just plain Loved It!!! No Spoilers!.

I received a free copy of this book via Helen Walton's Review Club and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lizette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow I went into this book worried about if I would like it. I loved it! I’m so excited to read more and see what their kids get up to. I can’t imagine their guilt and trying to raise their kids and keep their people safe.

I received a free copy of this book via Helen Walton's Review Club and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Niamh and Prince Fintan's story is beautifully tragic. I love how the story was written over a long period of time and how their love was portrayed. I look forward to the future books of their children.

I received a free copy of this book via Helen Walton's Review Club and am voluntarily leaving a honest review.

[Deb · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an absolutely wonderful charming romance story that I enjoyed reading. It is a fast paced romance that was engaging and kept my interest from beginning to end. It’s the story of the Summer Fae Prince Fintan and songstress Fae Niamh. They had a beautiful tragic story.

I received a free copy of this book via Helen Walton's Review Club and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kat M · Rating 5 out of 5]

this was a great start to the Summer Court series, it had a great concept and was what I was hoping for. The characters did everything that I was hoping for and the universe does a great job in telling the story. I hope the series continues this series.

I received a free copy of this book via Helen Walton's Review Club and am voluntarily leaving a review.