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The Divide #1
Blood of Desiderium
In the lands of Deyadrum, where every Fae possesses power, Princess Emma is the only one forced without. Confined in the walls of her palace by her father, she’s desperate for a taste of freedom.
That is, until she discovers the truth: everything she thought she knew was a lie, for something evil plagues her lands - promising death and darkness.
A betrothal that tests her.
A mysterious vigilante who teases her.
A Dark Prince who doesn’t trust her.
And a phantom that invades her dreams.
Emma must try to escape her father’s torturous grip as she journeys to find a way to save her people…and herself.
But Emma has dark secrets of her own. And a game she has to play.
Can she overcome her grief and fears to save her people before the darkness that lurks within consumes her?
Just remember, even that which appears true may be deceiving.
Trigger Warnings:
-Violence/Gore/Death
-Grief
-Profanity
-Mental health themes
-Mention of suicidal intent
-Torture
-Overall dark themes
*This book is a NA Dark Fantasy Romance that is 18+ with explicit language and sexual scenes. BoD is the first book in 'The Divide' series and ends on a cliffhanger.*
That is, until she discovers the truth: everything she thought she knew was a lie, for something evil plagues her lands - promising death and darkness.
A betrothal that tests her.
A mysterious vigilante who teases her.
A Dark Prince who doesn’t trust her.
And a phantom that invades her dreams.
Emma must try to escape her father’s torturous grip as she journeys to find a way to save her people…and herself.
But Emma has dark secrets of her own. And a game she has to play.
Can she overcome her grief and fears to save her people before the darkness that lurks within consumes her?
Just remember, even that which appears true may be deceiving.
Trigger Warnings:
-Violence/Gore/Death
-Grief
-Profanity
-Mental health themes
-Mention of suicidal intent
-Torture
-Overall dark themes
*This book is a NA Dark Fantasy Romance that is 18+ with explicit language and sexual scenes. BoD is the first book in 'The Divide' series and ends on a cliffhanger.*
594 pages, Paperback
Published December 21, 2022
907 people are currently reading
11164 people want to read
About the author
Ali Stuebbe
7 books288 followersAli Stuebbe is a new author who currently lives in Oahu with her husband and two kids. She has a passion for writing, and only wishes to create a new world for readers to fall in love with.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 457 reviews
fantasy
May 2, 2023《 3.75 ✰ 》
A Fae princess confined to the palace and blocked from accessing her powers by her father… A betrothal that tests her. A mysterious vigilante who teases her. A Dark Prince who doesn't trust her. And a phantom that invades her dreams.
This debut has all of the ingredients to make it a great fantasy series. A fierce fmc, a hunky Dark Prince, mythical creatures, an interesting magic system, found family, gods, danger lurking around every corner, a cruel king, and an intriguing plot. The only obstacle is the underdeveloped writing coupled with modern language. It could be distracting at times. I am hopeful that the writing will improve as the series continues. Heat alert! 🚨 I was pleasantly surprised by the spice. My kindle was burning up. 🥵 The nickname! The one that makes your heart flutter every time you hear it. 🫠
Keeping in mind that this is a debut, there is a lot of potential. I ended up enjoying it, immensely. The characters stole my heart and Prince Draven has been added to the book boyfriend waitlist. I am eager to see how the story will play out after that cliffhanger ending! Overall, I do recommend this book, with lowered expectations.
⬧ TW ⬧
⬪ Violence/Gore/Death
⬪ Grief
⬪ Profanity
⬪ Mental health themes
⬪ Mention of suicidal intent
⬪ Torture
⬪ Overall dark themes
*This book is NA Dark Fantasy Romance that is 18+ with explicit language and sexual scenes. BoD is the first book in the series and ends on a cliffhanger.*
A Fae princess confined to the palace and blocked from accessing her powers by her father… A betrothal that tests her. A mysterious vigilante who teases her. A Dark Prince who doesn't trust her. And a phantom that invades her dreams.
This debut has all of the ingredients to make it a great fantasy series. A fierce fmc, a hunky Dark Prince, mythical creatures, an interesting magic system, found family, gods, danger lurking around every corner, a cruel king, and an intriguing plot. The only obstacle is the underdeveloped writing coupled with modern language. It could be distracting at times. I am hopeful that the writing will improve as the series continues. Heat alert! 🚨 I was pleasantly surprised by the spice. My kindle was burning up. 🥵 The nickname! The one that makes your heart flutter every time you hear it. 🫠
❝
“I’ll be your villain if you need me to, little demon. But you don’t hate me. And even if you did, you wouldn’t be able to hang onto it for much longer.”
“I like when you beg, little demon.” Her eyes light up as I slam my mouth to hers.
Keeping in mind that this is a debut, there is a lot of potential. I ended up enjoying it, immensely. The characters stole my heart and Prince Draven has been added to the book boyfriend waitlist. I am eager to see how the story will play out after that cliffhanger ending! Overall, I do recommend this book, with lowered expectations.
❝
It’s better to spark the smallest ember than to curse the darkness.
I’ve fought worse monsters than him, but what he doesn’t know is that I might be the darkest monster of all.
I’m afraid I’m caught in his web, for I can now say I have a weakness for dimples.
“Need me to make you bleed again with my dagger?” she snipes back…
“I should probably mention violence turns me on,” I say, watching her face turn red with restrained irritation.
“You should never have to dance to death’s song alone, little demon.”
“No one deserves to live if they lay a fucking hand on you.”
“I will always find you too, for you have marked my heart with the only scar that I will ever cherish.”
⬧ TW ⬧
⬪ Violence/Gore/Death
⬪ Grief
⬪ Profanity
⬪ Mental health themes
⬪ Mention of suicidal intent
⬪ Torture
⬪ Overall dark themes
*This book is NA Dark Fantasy Romance that is 18+ with explicit language and sexual scenes. BoD is the first book in the series and ends on a cliffhanger.*
January 10, 2023
Lots of spoilers!
I kept reading because the premise is intriguing, but there were things that were hard to get past. Still an entertaining read. The very end was AWESOME.
But I gotta know if I'm the only one that was bugged by these things:
1. How did nobody know about the Masiren in a well for 19 years?
2. It was obvious who Shade was. He didn't want anybody knowing yet, revealed himself way too quickly to the others.
3. I don't think I've ever read a fantasy that uses modern phrases like "Atta girl" "you're my bro". Also, underwear briefs and socks?
4. "Atta, girl" said post sex. 😬
5. I almost didn't read the last 30 pages because like... How in the world was the friggin Goddess of Light stuck behind iron for 22 years and that holds her? Draven can break it open like it's nothing. Like what? I would think gods are strongest!
6. Emma kept bringing up how evil her dad was in about every chapter. We understand.
7. Emma felt free on the ship to another court. At court. And then again while flying. But when she's flying, she thinks, "I feel free. Something I've never felt." But the majority of the book she's free.
8. If King Oren didn't want her wandering around the Draven's court, why weren't there guards?! All she did was roam around freely!
9. When she overhears the captain say to the king something along the lines of, "the court of amihan to the north and the court of abhain to the west." He's king of one of the five courts.... He should know where these courts are located.
10. I never understood why Emma and Draven hated each other.
11. I was more attracted to Kye, ngl.
12. Why now? Why hasn't she tried to leave before? Especially if it was so dang easy!
13. Shade is rumored to be able to pop up at any court. So why were Kye, Cora, and Emma so sure that they can go to one bar and immediately hear gossip about exactly where Shade is because he's the only one that can get them off the island?
I kept reading because the premise is intriguing, but there were things that were hard to get past. Still an entertaining read. The very end was AWESOME.
But I gotta know if I'm the only one that was bugged by these things:
1. How did nobody know about the Masiren in a well for 19 years?
2. It was obvious who Shade was. He didn't want anybody knowing yet, revealed himself way too quickly to the others.
3. I don't think I've ever read a fantasy that uses modern phrases like "Atta girl" "you're my bro". Also, underwear briefs and socks?
4. "Atta, girl" said post sex. 😬
5. I almost didn't read the last 30 pages because like... How in the world was the friggin Goddess of Light stuck behind iron for 22 years and that holds her? Draven can break it open like it's nothing. Like what? I would think gods are strongest!
6. Emma kept bringing up how evil her dad was in about every chapter. We understand.
7. Emma felt free on the ship to another court. At court. And then again while flying. But when she's flying, she thinks, "I feel free. Something I've never felt." But the majority of the book she's free.
8. If King Oren didn't want her wandering around the Draven's court, why weren't there guards?! All she did was roam around freely!
9. When she overhears the captain say to the king something along the lines of, "the court of amihan to the north and the court of abhain to the west." He's king of one of the five courts.... He should know where these courts are located.
10. I never understood why Emma and Draven hated each other.
11. I was more attracted to Kye, ngl.
12. Why now? Why hasn't she tried to leave before? Especially if it was so dang easy!
13. Shade is rumored to be able to pop up at any court. So why were Kye, Cora, and Emma so sure that they can go to one bar and immediately hear gossip about exactly where Shade is because he's the only one that can get them off the island?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 14, 2023
I feel bad writing this review with a 1 star rating but I’ll keep it honest. This book could wildly benefit from a firm edit and reworking. The pacing is chaotic and is reminiscent of when you try to explain a tricky/multi pov fantasy plot to a friend after a few glasses of wine - the important moments were told to us within just a few lines and then we were expected to go with it. There is very little chemistry between any characters and though there’s obviously lust, which is well written and enjoyable smut, the idea that there is an ounce of ‘love’, or even genuine connection, is unreasonable. The metaphors were what had me really groaning however. There’s too many and they are clumsily melodramatic and often fall a bit short in making it to the point. There’s a lot of sudden chess metaphors in the last few chapters?? and they just keep coming. The main character even says “checkmate” out loud at one point. I wanted to DNF many times throughout but powered through for my book goal this year. This is a fanfic of From Blood and Ash with less character development for us to root for, a weaker plot that seems to stem from sickening hopelessness rather than any strength, and no real sense of world/political history to ground us in.
December 16, 2022
Ali! Wow… thank you so much for giving me the chance to read this as an ARC! I am blown away that this is your debut novel.
Y’all, Ali’s writing is breathtakingly beautiful!
Her world building of Deyadrum is easy to follow & is so well written. The story had me hooked immediately. I didn’t want to put this down once I started it.
Emma is our strong FMC & I just love her.
Her strength & character development was amazing to follow. Most of her life, she was a prisoner of darkness. But she always fought to stay in the light & she is such a badass! I really relate to her in so many ways. I felt so connected to her story.
Draven 🥵 Y’all. He is the dark MMC (dark Prince) & oh my… he has a mouth on him that I won’t forget anytime soon. 🔥 He’s mysterious and oh so possessive. His nickname for Emma… y’all I cannot.👏🏼 He is high on my list of favorite MMC, ever!!!
The spice is TOP FREAKIN TIER. Whew 😮💨
• Enemies to Lovers
• Somewhat of a slow burn, but once it hits…🥵
• Knife Play
• “Who did this to you?” 🔥
This is a darker fantasy romance that kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time! The way Ali’s writing brought out every emotion in me through this story….. I honestly will rank this as one of my top reads so far this year!
It does end on a major cliffhanger, like as in my mouth was wide open & I’m 👏🏼 READY 👏🏼 FOR 👏🏼 THE 👏🏼 NEXT 👏🏼 BOOK!
I’ll finish with one of my favorite lines from the book:
“Truths, little demon. I don’t want you to feel alone when you’re with me, because for some reason I don’t feel so lonely when you’re here. I can’t explain why, but you’re consuming my thoughts. Like the sweetest poison that will kill me if I don’t come back for more”- Draven 🥵
Y’all, Ali’s writing is breathtakingly beautiful!
Her world building of Deyadrum is easy to follow & is so well written. The story had me hooked immediately. I didn’t want to put this down once I started it.
Emma is our strong FMC & I just love her.
Her strength & character development was amazing to follow. Most of her life, she was a prisoner of darkness. But she always fought to stay in the light & she is such a badass! I really relate to her in so many ways. I felt so connected to her story.
Draven 🥵 Y’all. He is the dark MMC (dark Prince) & oh my… he has a mouth on him that I won’t forget anytime soon. 🔥 He’s mysterious and oh so possessive. His nickname for Emma… y’all I cannot.👏🏼 He is high on my list of favorite MMC, ever!!!
The spice is TOP FREAKIN TIER. Whew 😮💨
• Enemies to Lovers
• Somewhat of a slow burn, but once it hits…🥵
• Knife Play
• “Who did this to you?” 🔥
This is a darker fantasy romance that kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time! The way Ali’s writing brought out every emotion in me through this story….. I honestly will rank this as one of my top reads so far this year!
It does end on a major cliffhanger, like as in my mouth was wide open & I’m 👏🏼 READY 👏🏼 FOR 👏🏼 THE 👏🏼 NEXT 👏🏼 BOOK!
I’ll finish with one of my favorite lines from the book:
“Truths, little demon. I don’t want you to feel alone when you’re with me, because for some reason I don’t feel so lonely when you’re here. I can’t explain why, but you’re consuming my thoughts. Like the sweetest poison that will kill me if I don’t come back for more”- Draven 🥵
December 24, 2022
3.5 ⭐
This story had a lot of potential, but unfortunately it fell a little flat for me. That said, it was a fast, entertaining read.
My favorite part of this book was the development of the relationship between Draven and Emma. The enemies to lovers trope was well used, and the relationship evolved naturally which was great. I'd also like to say that the author did a wonderful job with Aiden and Emma. Their interactions went from honorable to cringe worthy in a smooth pattern which worked really well for the development of their relationship.
Unfortunately, the banter between the main characters, their interactions, and even some of the secondary characters were reminiscent of other novels such as 'Blood and Ash'. But I could have overlooked that considering the staggering similarities between many recently published novels in this fantasy sub-genre in the last three years.
What I had a harder time with was being almost always told about certain experiences and feelings, but not shown them. I wanted to experience the character's pain, anger, suffering, and desire and understand it instead of being relegated to the passenger seat. Being constantly told feelings over and over had me skipping pages at a time. More than that though, the characters felt one dimensional because of it. For example, I never understood why she was enamored with Aiden's kisses and dripping with arousal when she had no attraction to him. It seemed to come and go with no logic.
I also was a little annoyed with the blatant attempt to hide who the shadowed vigilante was when it was extremely obvious. And at times, the plot left me unsatisfied with unanswered questions such as why Emma had never attempted to leave or see outside the castle before.
This story had a lot of potential, but unfortunately it fell a little flat for me. That said, it was a fast, entertaining read.
My favorite part of this book was the development of the relationship between Draven and Emma. The enemies to lovers trope was well used, and the relationship evolved naturally which was great. I'd also like to say that the author did a wonderful job with Aiden and Emma. Their interactions went from honorable to cringe worthy in a smooth pattern which worked really well for the development of their relationship.
Unfortunately, the banter between the main characters, their interactions, and even some of the secondary characters were reminiscent of other novels such as 'Blood and Ash'. But I could have overlooked that considering the staggering similarities between many recently published novels in this fantasy sub-genre in the last three years.
What I had a harder time with was being almost always told about certain experiences and feelings, but not shown them. I wanted to experience the character's pain, anger, suffering, and desire and understand it instead of being relegated to the passenger seat. Being constantly told feelings over and over had me skipping pages at a time. More than that though, the characters felt one dimensional because of it. For example, I never understood why she was enamored with Aiden's kisses and dripping with arousal when she had no attraction to him. It seemed to come and go with no logic.
I also was a little annoyed with the blatant attempt to hide who the shadowed vigilante was when it was extremely obvious. And at times, the plot left me unsatisfied with unanswered questions such as why Emma had never attempted to leave or see outside the castle before.
January 5, 2023
Let me start by saying I'm super stoked Ali has followed her dream and published her work. I'm still excited to read her future works and to see how her writing matures as it's clear she has some great ideas.
Tbh though, I DNF'd this and will likely have to come back and try to finish it. I thought the setup for the story was good, but here are some things that contributed to my DNF:
1. There's a ton of inner dialogue. It lacks depth and I find that the characters are feeling all the feels but there isn't enough information for me to relate or sympathize. Most conversations start and then all of a sudden someone is seething. I love an enemies to lovers but this just lacked the quick wit and sauce I craved and went right to everyone is just angry all the time.
2. Some word choices were odd or overused (obviously subjective to the reader). For example: seethes, semblance, savage, psyche, fissure, c*ck twitch, but/yet, and I
3. The "I/me" perspective can get old kind of fast. Another preference that may vary from reader to reader but I favor less first person and more scene building with connotation-focused descriptions. I'm a visual, linguistics nerd though so 🤷
4. For 500+ pages I just wanted more depth. I DNF'd in the 300s because of the excessive/repetitive inner dialogue when we could've done a little more to explain the father-daughter relationship and history, father-son relationship, building the FMC's strength from readers perspective, developed out what else she does with her time/why she doesn't know things, maybe zuzh up the smoke screen around the vigilante?
I'm aware this is hypercritical. Maybe that's just the mood today. Fingers crossed my return to this book warrants an updated review.
Happy reading friends 📚
K.
Tbh though, I DNF'd this and will likely have to come back and try to finish it. I thought the setup for the story was good, but here are some things that contributed to my DNF:
1. There's a ton of inner dialogue. It lacks depth and I find that the characters are feeling all the feels but there isn't enough information for me to relate or sympathize. Most conversations start and then all of a sudden someone is seething. I love an enemies to lovers but this just lacked the quick wit and sauce I craved and went right to everyone is just angry all the time.
2. Some word choices were odd or overused (obviously subjective to the reader). For example: seethes, semblance, savage, psyche, fissure, c*ck twitch, but/yet, and I
3. The "I/me" perspective can get old kind of fast. Another preference that may vary from reader to reader but I favor less first person and more scene building with connotation-focused descriptions. I'm a visual, linguistics nerd though so 🤷
4. For 500+ pages I just wanted more depth. I DNF'd in the 300s because of the excessive/repetitive inner dialogue when we could've done a little more to explain the father-daughter relationship and history, father-son relationship, building the FMC's strength from readers perspective, developed out what else she does with her time/why she doesn't know things, maybe zuzh up the smoke screen around the vigilante?
I'm aware this is hypercritical. Maybe that's just the mood today. Fingers crossed my return to this book warrants an updated review.
Happy reading friends 📚
K.
July 12, 2023
Couldn´t really get into it.
Don´t know if it was due to the slump but will definitely try to re-read in a few months from now and maybe I´ll like it more then
Don´t know if it was due to the slump but will definitely try to re-read in a few months from now and maybe I´ll like it more then
May 19, 2023
From now on when people ask me what kind of books I like I will just refer them to THIS BOOK because y’all it was incredible ! 👀 perfect for fans of From Blood and Ash and Plated Prisoner series!
Put together Romantasy that also has an incredible plot, and make it extremely dark, and this is the result🔥 LOTS of flirty banter, fae, dark magic, torture and abuse, betrayal, captivity, ARRANGED MARRIAGE, a curse that turns fae into vicious feral monsters…. Throw in some “who gave you those scars” and spice and I was HOOKED!
Princess Emma’s life is controlled by the men in it. She’s captive in her own castle, shackled and tortured by her own father, the king. An iron collar keeps her fae powers under the surface. She longs for freedom, but most of all: revenge.
Hot fae men are dripping from the pages so you can imagine that had my brain in a buzz! I love it when at first it’s not so clear who the love interest is (there was a point I even thought it would turn into a RH 😂)! the story is told in multiple POV so we also get a glimpse inside the head of the males 👀
A must read for Romantasy fans!
Thanks to the author for gifting me a copy for review!
Put together Romantasy that also has an incredible plot, and make it extremely dark, and this is the result🔥 LOTS of flirty banter, fae, dark magic, torture and abuse, betrayal, captivity, ARRANGED MARRIAGE, a curse that turns fae into vicious feral monsters…. Throw in some “who gave you those scars” and spice and I was HOOKED!
Princess Emma’s life is controlled by the men in it. She’s captive in her own castle, shackled and tortured by her own father, the king. An iron collar keeps her fae powers under the surface. She longs for freedom, but most of all: revenge.
Hot fae men are dripping from the pages so you can imagine that had my brain in a buzz! I love it when at first it’s not so clear who the love interest is (there was a point I even thought it would turn into a RH 😂)! the story is told in multiple POV so we also get a glimpse inside the head of the males 👀
A must read for Romantasy fans!
Thanks to the author for gifting me a copy for review!
August 26, 2024
Just did a re-read, and it was just as good as the first time. I love a strong FMC and a dark, tortured MMC. I forgot how much I hate certain characters, but I feel like that's great storytelling. The writing style is easy to get into and follow along. I can't wait to see where this story takes us.
December 13, 2022
Thank you Ali for an eARC in exchange for an honest review!
This book is easily in my top five reads of 2022, I just want to start by saying this!
Blood of Desiderium follows Princess Emma on a whirlwind heartbreaking journey of self discovery and trying to escape her hellish father. Along the way she is betrothed to someone she does not love, she meets a vigilante who wants better for their world and teases her, a stern Dark Prince who does not trust her, and a phantom who gives her nightmares. Emma has dark secrets of her own. Will her secrets and fear overcome her? Or can she face them head on to save her people and herself?
Emma, our stabby FMC, is strong, powerful, resilient, can hold her own, romantic, witty, feisty, selfless, sheltered, and deals with a lot of mental health situations after her traumas. Emma is beautiful inside and out. I found myself connecting with her. More then any other FMC that I have read to date. I want to say more on this subject of why.. but I'm afraid it will spoil things and I don’t want that for you. I'm in love with her and her journey.
Draven, our MMC, is sincere, powerful, romantic, strong, smart, gorgeous, has the weight of the world on his shoulders, poetic, fierce, protective alphahole, possessive, loves his loved ones without fail, cautious, and so much more. He is everything you want in a MMC. I fell in love with him instantly. He has a way of making you view things in a completely different and beautiful way. I would find myself tearing up at his words. Especially when they were directed towards Emma. He has also had a lot happen in his life that has caused a harden shell but he pushes forward.
The side characters.. Cora one of the loves of my life and Emma's too. Cora is Emma's best friend. She is witty and fun and just supports Emma 110%. Kye is strong, supportive of Emma, and reminds me of a gentle giant. Fynn oh my gosh I love him!!! He is the comedic relief, flirty, and just an amazing male.
What To Expect:
▪︎NA Dark Fantasy Romance
▪︎Fae, monsters, and other magical creatures
▪︎Multiple POV
▪︎Mates
▪︎Found Family
▪︎Mine
▪︎Who Did This To You?
▪︎Masked Balls
▪︎Nicknames
▪︎Secrets
▪︎Trigger Warnings which may contain spoilers ⚠️
*Violence/ Gore/ Death (including but not limited to parental death)
*Grief
*Profanity
*Mention of suicidal intent/Mental health themes
*Torture/Abuse
*Overall dark themes
*Language
*Sexually explicit content- kinks that are included but no limited to...
-Shadow Hand Necklaces
-Shadow Play
-Blood Play
-Knife Play
-Praise Kink
▪︎First Book in The Divide Series
▪︎Cliffhanger
▪︎Slow Burn
▪︎Banter
▪︎and so much more
Ali's debut novel is full of beautiful prose. I highlighted probably ninety-five percent of the book of all the beautiful quotes. Her world building is top-notch, and her story flows immaculately. I was immediately sucked into the story and did not want to put this book down. And when I finished, I wanted to start all over and read again. The range of emotions she invoked in me was unparalleled. I found myself stopping to let the words soak into me; like she was speaking directly to my soul. Also, the way she touches on mental health following trauma or grief is so realistic. Again, I felt like she was talking about me. The thoughts that come unbidden to your mind, but you know you must press on. This story and these characters are now a part of my personality and life; and forever they will stay. I can't wait for book two!!!
This book is easily in my top five reads of 2022, I just want to start by saying this!
Blood of Desiderium follows Princess Emma on a whirlwind heartbreaking journey of self discovery and trying to escape her hellish father. Along the way she is betrothed to someone she does not love, she meets a vigilante who wants better for their world and teases her, a stern Dark Prince who does not trust her, and a phantom who gives her nightmares. Emma has dark secrets of her own. Will her secrets and fear overcome her? Or can she face them head on to save her people and herself?
Emma, our stabby FMC, is strong, powerful, resilient, can hold her own, romantic, witty, feisty, selfless, sheltered, and deals with a lot of mental health situations after her traumas. Emma is beautiful inside and out. I found myself connecting with her. More then any other FMC that I have read to date. I want to say more on this subject of why.. but I'm afraid it will spoil things and I don’t want that for you. I'm in love with her and her journey.
Draven, our MMC, is sincere, powerful, romantic, strong, smart, gorgeous, has the weight of the world on his shoulders, poetic, fierce, protective alphahole, possessive, loves his loved ones without fail, cautious, and so much more. He is everything you want in a MMC. I fell in love with him instantly. He has a way of making you view things in a completely different and beautiful way. I would find myself tearing up at his words. Especially when they were directed towards Emma. He has also had a lot happen in his life that has caused a harden shell but he pushes forward.
The side characters.. Cora one of the loves of my life and Emma's too. Cora is Emma's best friend. She is witty and fun and just supports Emma 110%. Kye is strong, supportive of Emma, and reminds me of a gentle giant. Fynn oh my gosh I love him!!! He is the comedic relief, flirty, and just an amazing male.
What To Expect:
▪︎NA Dark Fantasy Romance
▪︎Fae, monsters, and other magical creatures
▪︎Multiple POV
▪︎Mates
▪︎Found Family
▪︎Mine
▪︎Who Did This To You?
▪︎Masked Balls
▪︎Nicknames
▪︎Secrets
▪︎Trigger Warnings which may contain spoilers ⚠️
*Violence/ Gore/ Death (including but not limited to parental death)
*Grief
*Profanity
*Mention of suicidal intent/Mental health themes
*Torture/Abuse
*Overall dark themes
*Language
*Sexually explicit content- kinks that are included but no limited to...
-Shadow Hand Necklaces
-Shadow Play
-Blood Play
-Knife Play
-Praise Kink
▪︎First Book in The Divide Series
▪︎Cliffhanger
▪︎Slow Burn
▪︎Banter
▪︎and so much more
Ali's debut novel is full of beautiful prose. I highlighted probably ninety-five percent of the book of all the beautiful quotes. Her world building is top-notch, and her story flows immaculately. I was immediately sucked into the story and did not want to put this book down. And when I finished, I wanted to start all over and read again. The range of emotions she invoked in me was unparalleled. I found myself stopping to let the words soak into me; like she was speaking directly to my soul. Also, the way she touches on mental health following trauma or grief is so realistic. Again, I felt like she was talking about me. The thoughts that come unbidden to your mind, but you know you must press on. This story and these characters are now a part of my personality and life; and forever they will stay. I can't wait for book two!!!
January 4, 2024
Blood of Desiderium was a gloomy, wonderful, glaringly grim depiction of a woman fighting for freedom.
This debut novel had just about everything I needed to stay captivated: a fierce heroine, who was battling a darkness she couldn't control; a devastingly handsome dark prince, who has his own secrets to keep; a few secondary characters who each deserve their own stories; an extremely cruel King, who wanted to rule over everyone; a stunning magic system; and a moving plot.
At times I wanted to both slap and hug Emma. She really was her own worst enemy (aside from the King and his followers). While she and Draven (our swoon-worthy hero) clashed from the start, there was no mistaking the chemistry between them. The author doled out the heat in spades!
And while this book definitely had some spice to it, whether through heated words or heated intimate exchanges, the plot was what held my attention most. I couldn't figure out how Emma would come into her power, who was responsible for the monstrous beasts plaguing the fae, or if any of these people I had come to love would even survive. I was hooked and I need the next book, Soul of Salvation immediately. Waiting for its release is going to feel like torture.
This debut novel had just about everything I needed to stay captivated: a fierce heroine, who was battling a darkness she couldn't control; a devastingly handsome dark prince, who has his own secrets to keep; a few secondary characters who each deserve their own stories; an extremely cruel King, who wanted to rule over everyone; a stunning magic system; and a moving plot.
At times I wanted to both slap and hug Emma. She really was her own worst enemy (aside from the King and his followers). While she and Draven (our swoon-worthy hero) clashed from the start, there was no mistaking the chemistry between them. The author doled out the heat in spades!
And while this book definitely had some spice to it, whether through heated words or heated intimate exchanges, the plot was what held my attention most. I couldn't figure out how Emma would come into her power, who was responsible for the monstrous beasts plaguing the fae, or if any of these people I had come to love would even survive. I was hooked and I need the next book, Soul of Salvation immediately. Waiting for its release is going to feel like torture.
June 25, 2023
This book ended up a rage read.
I will start with personal pet peeves that you dear reader may not care about but drive me crazy.
Excessively modern language in a fantasy. Not an urban fantasy, just fantasy. I have seen it done well once and it was specifically for comedic relief and worked well. This did not and it broke any semblance of a “spell” I was in reading it. Though the spell was fueled by wild irritation more than interest.
Poorly placed “good girl”. Nothing drives me crazier than what feels like lazily shoved in “good girl” to play into the recent craze of praise kink we all realized we had on tick tock stemming from being raised as perfectionist with anxious attachment. At one point fam the MMC says “atta girl.” After sex. I can’t even.
Now for the plot train wrecks
The necklace. The stupid fucking necklace that holds back her power. At the beginning sure it can’t come off. But then they are traveling the world talking to powerful beings AND AT NO POINT DO THEY ASK HOW TO GET RID OF IT. No one. Not a single person in their merry little troupe thinks to ask. And then “the bond” was wrapped into it. “she can’t be my mate I would have felt the bond instead of this highly suspicious obsession I have with her.” Oh wait MAYBE THE NECKLACE HOLDING BACK HER POWERS IS HINDERING IT. No one at time even sort of thinks about that.
And her virginity. JFC. It gets talked about so much I figured it meant like some power would be unlocked instead it was just the men being obsessed with getting there first like king of the hill or some shit and I wondered if I got shoved into a regency romance while I wasn’t looking. It served absolutely zero plot purpose. It didn’t make her hesitant for sex or naive or anything. Just keeps getting mentioned with “I got here first” is some weird fetish awe. But with zero to do with the plot. It was insanely annoying.
God it was slow. So slow. Because we don’t already know who she is going to end up with? Or who Shade is? In what romance work does the princess not marry the prince instead of the person her abusive gaurduan picks and it’s over half way in the book fam. Holy shit it was just to the point I was going to skip ahead and I could have not really missed much.
Random knife play with zero build up or conversations of consent with a girl who was carved up by her father on the regular? Sure that makes sense.
The coincidences are eye rolling. “I played on the beach once and was told to never come back so I didn’t and now there is a creature no one has even heard in the dark of the night for 19 years, Omg my bff is guarding it with the keys!” What? Also she sneaks out of the castle easily but doesn’t leave. Now that would make sense if she had some learned helplessness but even that was sloppily placed.
The repetition. On everything.
All tell, zero show.
The concept was good, delivery was infuriating. With some ruthless editing it could have been a decent book.
I will start with personal pet peeves that you dear reader may not care about but drive me crazy.
Excessively modern language in a fantasy. Not an urban fantasy, just fantasy. I have seen it done well once and it was specifically for comedic relief and worked well. This did not and it broke any semblance of a “spell” I was in reading it. Though the spell was fueled by wild irritation more than interest.
Poorly placed “good girl”. Nothing drives me crazier than what feels like lazily shoved in “good girl” to play into the recent craze of praise kink we all realized we had on tick tock stemming from being raised as perfectionist with anxious attachment. At one point fam the MMC says “atta girl.” After sex. I can’t even.
Now for the plot train wrecks
The necklace. The stupid fucking necklace that holds back her power. At the beginning sure it can’t come off. But then they are traveling the world talking to powerful beings AND AT NO POINT DO THEY ASK HOW TO GET RID OF IT. No one. Not a single person in their merry little troupe thinks to ask. And then “the bond” was wrapped into it. “she can’t be my mate I would have felt the bond instead of this highly suspicious obsession I have with her.” Oh wait MAYBE THE NECKLACE HOLDING BACK HER POWERS IS HINDERING IT. No one at time even sort of thinks about that.
And her virginity. JFC. It gets talked about so much I figured it meant like some power would be unlocked instead it was just the men being obsessed with getting there first like king of the hill or some shit and I wondered if I got shoved into a regency romance while I wasn’t looking. It served absolutely zero plot purpose. It didn’t make her hesitant for sex or naive or anything. Just keeps getting mentioned with “I got here first” is some weird fetish awe. But with zero to do with the plot. It was insanely annoying.
God it was slow. So slow. Because we don’t already know who she is going to end up with? Or who Shade is? In what romance work does the princess not marry the prince instead of the person her abusive gaurduan picks and it’s over half way in the book fam. Holy shit it was just to the point I was going to skip ahead and I could have not really missed much.
Random knife play with zero build up or conversations of consent with a girl who was carved up by her father on the regular? Sure that makes sense.
The coincidences are eye rolling. “I played on the beach once and was told to never come back so I didn’t and now there is a creature no one has even heard in the dark of the night for 19 years, Omg my bff is guarding it with the keys!” What? Also she sneaks out of the castle easily but doesn’t leave. Now that would make sense if she had some learned helplessness but even that was sloppily placed.
The repetition. On everything.
All tell, zero show.
The concept was good, delivery was infuriating. With some ruthless editing it could have been a decent book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 24, 2022
Thank you Ali for sending me the ARC. This review is my own opinion.
I was completely captivated from the beginning of the book and by chapter 5 I was invested in the characters and story. I have been craving a book like this one and I am in a very deep book hangover right now. Ali's writing is wonderful and I was lost in her words. I fell in love with Emma and Draven. Their connection drove me wild and I was so happy to see where the story went for them. The plot and twist are so well done that I want to re-read the book before the next one to make sure I didn't miss anything. The ending was awesome, I loved the cliffhanger and can't stop thinking about it.
I have read over 90 books this year and this one is in my top 5! This has everything I love about dark fantasy romance. It is a great debut book!
I was completely captivated from the beginning of the book and by chapter 5 I was invested in the characters and story. I have been craving a book like this one and I am in a very deep book hangover right now. Ali's writing is wonderful and I was lost in her words. I fell in love with Emma and Draven. Their connection drove me wild and I was so happy to see where the story went for them. The plot and twist are so well done that I want to re-read the book before the next one to make sure I didn't miss anything. The ending was awesome, I loved the cliffhanger and can't stop thinking about it.
I have read over 90 books this year and this one is in my top 5! This has everything I love about dark fantasy romance. It is a great debut book!
January 13, 2023
Wow. Wow. Wow. And this is her debut novel?!? This was an absolute fucking ride and I enjoyed every bit of it. Magic. Adventure. Fae courts. Spice. What more could you want in a book???
Emma is fierce and determined to break free from her gilded prison and her father, King of Asov. Her first glance at the world beyond is a masked ball (hell yeah) at a neighboring kingdom. What could go wrong? Or what could go right?? (I’m looking at you Dark Prince
Emma is fierce and determined to break free from her gilded prison and her father, King of Asov. Her first glance at the world beyond is a masked ball (hell yeah) at a neighboring kingdom. What could go wrong? Or what could go right?? (I’m looking at you Dark Prince
December 21, 2022
Yall are gonna want this book.
𝑰𝒕’𝒔 𝒃𝒆𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒐 𝒔𝒑𝒂𝒓𝒌 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒎𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒆𝒎𝒃𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒏 𝒕𝒐 𝒄𝒖𝒓𝒔𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒅𝒂𝒓𝒌𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔.
This is a debut novel and to say my mind is blown is an understatement!! Ali had such beautiful imagery throughout this book. I am just so grateful for to have been given an opportunity to read this arc 🤍 I am already counting down for my book to come in the mail so I can reread because it is that good!
𝑴𝒂𝒚𝒃𝒆 𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒏𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒎𝒆𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆 𝒔𝒂𝒗𝒆𝒅, 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓, 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒐𝒏𝒆’𝒔 𝒔𝒂𝒗𝒊𝒐𝒓.
This book is a whirlwind!! We get to see Princess Emma as she discovers who she is while maintaining her stabby, fiesty personality while trying to prove she's more than a title. Draven is our prince of the night. Broody and mysterious, with the weight of the world on his shoulders. Cora, Kyle, and Fynn are some of my favorite side characters with their unwavering loyalty to their friends. This book is filled with secrets, mystery, love and fate and will leave you on the edge of your seat anxiously awaiting the next book!!
While taking you an adventure, this book covers some dark topics while having great mental health representation so definitely check the trigger warnings!
Read if you like:
🗡fiesty badass fmc
🗡fated mates
🗡multiple pov
🗡found family
🗡who did this to you vibes
🗡dark fantasy romance
𝑰𝒕’𝒔 𝒃𝒆𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒐 𝒔𝒑𝒂𝒓𝒌 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒎𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒆𝒎𝒃𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒏 𝒕𝒐 𝒄𝒖𝒓𝒔𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒅𝒂𝒓𝒌𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔.
This is a debut novel and to say my mind is blown is an understatement!! Ali had such beautiful imagery throughout this book. I am just so grateful for to have been given an opportunity to read this arc 🤍 I am already counting down for my book to come in the mail so I can reread because it is that good!
𝑴𝒂𝒚𝒃𝒆 𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒏𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒎𝒆𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆 𝒔𝒂𝒗𝒆𝒅, 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓, 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒐𝒏𝒆’𝒔 𝒔𝒂𝒗𝒊𝒐𝒓.
This book is a whirlwind!! We get to see Princess Emma as she discovers who she is while maintaining her stabby, fiesty personality while trying to prove she's more than a title. Draven is our prince of the night. Broody and mysterious, with the weight of the world on his shoulders. Cora, Kyle, and Fynn are some of my favorite side characters with their unwavering loyalty to their friends. This book is filled with secrets, mystery, love and fate and will leave you on the edge of your seat anxiously awaiting the next book!!
While taking you an adventure, this book covers some dark topics while having great mental health representation so definitely check the trigger warnings!
Read if you like:
🗡fiesty badass fmc
🗡fated mates
🗡multiple pov
🗡found family
🗡who did this to you vibes
🗡dark fantasy romance
January 4, 2024
wow another unoriginal, completely forgettable fantasy book.
To make you better understand this novel and how amazing its characters were it is worth mentioning that everyone had a super cool fantasy name and the protagonist’s name was Emma.
And she was not like the other girls because she loved to stay outside and read and she hated attention. 🙄
To make you better understand this novel and how amazing its characters were it is worth mentioning that everyone had a super cool fantasy name and the protagonist’s name was Emma.
And she was not like the other girls because she loved to stay outside and read and she hated attention. 🙄
June 18, 2024
i actually, truly hate myself for not realizing the second book to this wasnt out yet. because what the HAILLLL was that ending ??????
January 7, 2023
🌿 BOOK REVIEW 🌿
Blood of Desiderium—a medium paced fantasy that draws you in rather quickly with its intriguing politics, compelling characters and thrilling adventure. I will say, though—immediately, lol—that the magic system took me some time to figure out but once I did it felt like puzzle pieces fell into place.
With fantasy romances it’s always a little tricky to create something truly new and authentic; and while some aspects of BoD did remind me of various other beloved romantasies, Ali did an admirable job with her overall world building.
I very much enjoyed Emma’s character development throughout the book, especially since I couldn’t connect with her at the beginning of the story. I loved her chemistry with Draven; the tension between the two was dripping off the pages and I could actually appreciate how Ali dragged it out for us; a true slow burn, enemies to lovers.
However, there were parts in the book where I thought the story felt rushed all of a sudden and maybe a tiny bit inconsistent at times while other elements had a strong build-up. But the pacing of the overall story was good; not too fast, not too slow.
I think Ali already mentioned it before her debut novel was released that it would end in a cliffhanger but I must have missed the memo because I did not see that coming—I am stupid sometimes. But I loved it. Not me being stupid; but the cliffhanger. Well done.
Anyways—a strong first dark fantasy romance in a series with gripping characters, palpable romantic tension and a poetic undertone. Some portions were predictable but that doesn’t mean that its bad; I honestly loved it even more so because we all know fantasy romances can be extremely confusing. But not Blood of Desiderium. Ali, honey, I applaud you for what you have accomplished; and I can’t wait for the next instalment.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
———
#bookreview #fantasyromance #fantasybooks #romancebooks #romantasy #bookrecommendations #whatliesbeyondtheveil #romancereads #darkacademia #literature #darkromance #smutbooks #fatedmates
Blood of Desiderium—a medium paced fantasy that draws you in rather quickly with its intriguing politics, compelling characters and thrilling adventure. I will say, though—immediately, lol—that the magic system took me some time to figure out but once I did it felt like puzzle pieces fell into place.
With fantasy romances it’s always a little tricky to create something truly new and authentic; and while some aspects of BoD did remind me of various other beloved romantasies, Ali did an admirable job with her overall world building.
I very much enjoyed Emma’s character development throughout the book, especially since I couldn’t connect with her at the beginning of the story. I loved her chemistry with Draven; the tension between the two was dripping off the pages and I could actually appreciate how Ali dragged it out for us; a true slow burn, enemies to lovers.
However, there were parts in the book where I thought the story felt rushed all of a sudden and maybe a tiny bit inconsistent at times while other elements had a strong build-up. But the pacing of the overall story was good; not too fast, not too slow.
I think Ali already mentioned it before her debut novel was released that it would end in a cliffhanger but I must have missed the memo because I did not see that coming—I am stupid sometimes. But I loved it. Not me being stupid; but the cliffhanger. Well done.
Anyways—a strong first dark fantasy romance in a series with gripping characters, palpable romantic tension and a poetic undertone. Some portions were predictable but that doesn’t mean that its bad; I honestly loved it even more so because we all know fantasy romances can be extremely confusing. But not Blood of Desiderium. Ali, honey, I applaud you for what you have accomplished; and I can’t wait for the next instalment.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
———
#bookreview #fantasyromance #fantasybooks #romancebooks #romantasy #bookrecommendations #whatliesbeyondtheveil #romancereads #darkacademia #literature #darkromance #smutbooks #fatedmates
December 26, 2022
What an amazing story!!
RTC
RTC
May 20, 2023
THIS WAS SO GOOD!
I loved loved loved this book, y’all. I’ll be honest, I was a bit intimidated by the page count before jumping in…but the next thing I knew I was 20% in and it was well past my bedtime 😂
The first few chapters of this book CRUSHED MY SOUL 😭 but they were so good and so necessary…I loved Princess Emma and her character growth. She’s had SUCH a difficult life…but instead of allowing that to define her and steal her agency, she uses it as motivation. I also really loved the side characters and their relationships with Emma. It truly felt like a found family m, especially when her only biological relative was just so horrible towards her.
The ending though. UGHHHH. It broke me and I neeeed book two so bad 😭
Thanks to the author for gifting me a copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I loved loved loved this book, y’all. I’ll be honest, I was a bit intimidated by the page count before jumping in…but the next thing I knew I was 20% in and it was well past my bedtime 😂
The first few chapters of this book CRUSHED MY SOUL 😭 but they were so good and so necessary…I loved Princess Emma and her character growth. She’s had SUCH a difficult life…but instead of allowing that to define her and steal her agency, she uses it as motivation. I also really loved the side characters and their relationships with Emma. It truly felt like a found family m, especially when her only biological relative was just so horrible towards her.
The ending though. UGHHHH. It broke me and I neeeed book two so bad 😭
Thanks to the author for gifting me a copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 13, 2023
4.5⭐️
The ending makes me want to die. Ali, I will literally do anything for the next book to be released immediately.
Pleasantly surprised by how amazing this story was. This should definitely be a more popular read. The tension was perfect, the pacing was so good it did not feel like a 600 page book.
The modern words and phrasing kinda threw me off but does not subtract from the story at all.
Also, Draven 🥹
The ending makes me want to die. Ali, I will literally do anything for the next book to be released immediately.
Pleasantly surprised by how amazing this story was. This should definitely be a more popular read. The tension was perfect, the pacing was so good it did not feel like a 600 page book.
The modern words and phrasing kinda threw me off but does not subtract from the story at all.
Also, Draven 🥹
April 20, 2023
A nice read but it was a little confusing at the beginning. He have the POV of a girl and we are thinking she is the heroine. Then the POV of the evil king and we think that he is somehow the hero but after that the POV of another girl, the first girl's sister and then, many years later the POV if the real heroine 🤦
July 21, 2025
DNF @ 17%.
I have very little patience for endless inner dialogue. The FMC had maybe 3 conversations (her speaking at most 2 sentences each). I don't want to read for the 10th time that she's a prisoner in her own father's castle, or how cruel her father is.....we get it. Let's build the relationships in the story now, let's move the plot along now.
Because of the lack of character interaction, all of the FMC's relationships felt shallow.
Ultimately, the book started strong with the FMC's mother and Lydia but went off the tracks.
I have very little patience for endless inner dialogue. The FMC had maybe 3 conversations (her speaking at most 2 sentences each). I don't want to read for the 10th time that she's a prisoner in her own father's castle, or how cruel her father is.....we get it. Let's build the relationships in the story now, let's move the plot along now.
Because of the lack of character interaction, all of the FMC's relationships felt shallow.
Ultimately, the book started strong with the FMC's mother and Lydia but went off the tracks.
December 30, 2022
DNF @ 54%/297 pages.
I just can’t make myself read another 250 pages of this. It’s so, so bad.
I’m utterly shocked by all the 5-star reviews it has. Honesty feels like it was written by a 15 year old and someone really needs to explain “SHOW DON’T TELL” to the author. And every single problem encountered throughout the story was quickly solved with someone just so happening to be in the right spot at the right time…. Rando fae dude getting attacked by super rare creature no one has battled before just so happens to have dagger made of super rare metal that just so happens to be the only thing that will kill the critter. The one and only guard that finds you trying to set free another super rare creature that’s been locked in a well for two decades just so happens to be your friend AND have a master key on him that unlocks critter’s chains, wow! What are the odds?! Trying to sneak out of the castle you’re trapped and tortured in? No problem! The only dude guarding the gates just so happens to need to go pee at the same moment you decide to leave! Oh, silly boys.
I think the final straw was the “hey, that’s not cool!” when MC and side girlie got startled. Modern turns of phase in fantasy just grates my nerves. I’m done.
I just can’t make myself read another 250 pages of this. It’s so, so bad.
I’m utterly shocked by all the 5-star reviews it has. Honesty feels like it was written by a 15 year old and someone really needs to explain “SHOW DON’T TELL” to the author. And every single problem encountered throughout the story was quickly solved with someone just so happening to be in the right spot at the right time…. Rando fae dude getting attacked by super rare creature no one has battled before just so happens to have dagger made of super rare metal that just so happens to be the only thing that will kill the critter. The one and only guard that finds you trying to set free another super rare creature that’s been locked in a well for two decades just so happens to be your friend AND have a master key on him that unlocks critter’s chains, wow! What are the odds?! Trying to sneak out of the castle you’re trapped and tortured in? No problem! The only dude guarding the gates just so happens to need to go pee at the same moment you decide to leave! Oh, silly boys.
I think the final straw was the “hey, that’s not cool!” when MC and side girlie got startled. Modern turns of phase in fantasy just grates my nerves. I’m done.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 1, 2023
wanted to like this book
This book was so hard to get into. The concept was great but I just was not invested. I feel like the FMC’s motivations didn’t make a lot of sense to me. Dealing with abuse for 19 some odd years but only leaves now?? No plan for revenge or freedom but she has these moments where she yearns for it and it’s her ultimate goal but makes zero plans or does anything but read romance novels. The book tries so hard to be mysterious that it’s not intriguing, it’s just annoying. It’s frustrating for me to read a chapter and it feels like filler and then I turn around and have to read another segment of the book where the main character now has to learn about what I already read about. I skimmed so much of this book just to make it end.
This book was so hard to get into. The concept was great but I just was not invested. I feel like the FMC’s motivations didn’t make a lot of sense to me. Dealing with abuse for 19 some odd years but only leaves now?? No plan for revenge or freedom but she has these moments where she yearns for it and it’s her ultimate goal but makes zero plans or does anything but read romance novels. The book tries so hard to be mysterious that it’s not intriguing, it’s just annoying. It’s frustrating for me to read a chapter and it feels like filler and then I turn around and have to read another segment of the book where the main character now has to learn about what I already read about. I skimmed so much of this book just to make it end.
May 17, 2023
Whyyyy these great reviews? Writing is so awkward and stilted, MCs are hollow and stereotypical. Trying to slog through it and failing.
Also can we talk about how lame the trope is of romance novel-loving MCs and how disruptive it is to the reader to have over-the top atmospheric descriptive language combined with modern swear words and casual/slang language?
Lastly, this author can’t write and these sexual fantasies are gross. I really dislike this book. DNF
Also can we talk about how lame the trope is of romance novel-loving MCs and how disruptive it is to the reader to have over-the top atmospheric descriptive language combined with modern swear words and casual/slang language?
Lastly, this author can’t write and these sexual fantasies are gross. I really dislike this book. DNF
December 19, 2022
"I'll be your villain if you need me to be, Little Demon.
My Thoughts
So I am changing the layout of my reviews if you would like to see tropes and tw please scroll below but I wanted my thoughts to be more toward the top now. For more book reviews and bookish content feel free to follow me on Instagram | Tik Tok | or My Website.
I found this book to be extremely unique and I absolutely adored every moment. It had enough twist and turns to keep you going and wanting more. I found the characters to be intriguing as well as well written. Emma, the FMC, is strong despite her brokenness and it was beautiful to see through her eyes. Draven became one of my favorite book boyfriends quickly.
The world building in my opinion is where this book shined exceptionally. I loved loved loved the worldbuilding and could see everything as Ali describes it.
Spice was nice and well-written and thankfully not cringy or unwanted. It was a bit of a slow burn and while the spice might have been limited it was so well written that it was worth it. The banter is also another way that this book shines.
This book had me on the edge of my seat towards the end because I honestly could not tell where it was going (which is great) some things I sorta figured out but enough twists and turns to keep me constantly guessing. I loved it so much.
Overall, I can not wait to read the second one. Please know that this does end on a cliffhanger.
Thank you so much to the author for an advanced copy of this in return for a complete and honest review. While this was an ARC, the opinions are my own.
Tropes
*Mates
*Found Family
*Praise
*Multiple POV
*Who Did This?
*SlowBurn
*Morally Grey
TW
*Explicit Sexual Content
*Explicit Language
*Suicide Idealilation/Mental Heath
*Shadow Play
*Knife Play
*Blood Play
*Hand Necklaces
*Gore
*Grief/Loss of parent
*Torture
*Abuse from parental figure
December 14, 2022
I received an ARC copy of this book - and Ali, thank you SO much for selecting me as part of your arc team. Your book blew me away <3
Emma is a prisoner in her own life. Her father tortures and abuses her, keeping her Fae magic at bay with the collar around her neck. She is tormented when she is awake, and the torment continues in her dreams - darkness calling to her. Emma wants freedom, she wants to explore the world outside of the palace, free herself from the chains of her father, and save the people of Deyadrum - in turn saving herself. She looks to a shadow to help her find her way and rid the realm of her father and the Corrupted.
I'll start with a lil bit about the writing style... this is present tense, first person, multi-POV. I personally loved the multi-POV first person narrative, giving a deeper insight into the characters emotions and thoughts. Just keep an eye on the names, indicating whose POV, at the beginning of each chapter so you don't get confused!
The book throws you directly into action and intrigue, delving into the world-building from page one. And I loved the world-building in this book - reading it felt effortless and non-confusing, whilst giving depth to the settings and the lore. The pacing of this book, although very descriptive, was on point for me. I will say the first 30% I read more slowly, but the remainder of the book I absolutely ate up and when a chapter finished, I was desperaaaate to start the next.
Our FMC, Emma, is trauma-filled and cracked from a life of physical and mental pain inflicted by her father and her experience of loss. Some of the emotional scenes with Emma hurt so goddamn bad, especially toward the end, and you feel every ounce of her pain. But you also feel every ounce of her power. She is a fiesty fighter through and through, and despite the agony she's experienced, she wants to do good by her realm and her people. Emma is conflicted, both emotionally and magically, her turmoil throughout the book is a key element of her story.
Gods, Prince Draven... dark, delicious, moody, guarded - has many secrets... THE perfect MMC. He is powerful and possessive and violent - an enemies to lovers dream. And his nicknames for Emma just - well, they set me on fire from the inside out.
And the spice, folks! THE SPICE. To say Ali had me hot under the collar would be an understatement. Sexy and dark, with a hint of k!nk... Do read the trigger warnings for both the spice AND for the book in general.
I warn you... the cliffhanger is INTENSE and the last few chapter had me crying, sobbing, screaming and generally being an emotional mess.
I cannot wait to read the next book in the series and see what unfolds! I am DESPERATE to find out what happens to the characters, book two cannot come soon enough.
Read this book if you like... <3
Magic • Enemies to Lovers • Multi-POV (with FMC & MMC POVs!) • In Depth World-Building & Lore • Nightmare Tropes • Found Family (I feel this will develop more in book two!) • Fun Banter • Spice & K!nks • BUT READ TRIGGER WARNINGS
Emma is a prisoner in her own life. Her father tortures and abuses her, keeping her Fae magic at bay with the collar around her neck. She is tormented when she is awake, and the torment continues in her dreams - darkness calling to her. Emma wants freedom, she wants to explore the world outside of the palace, free herself from the chains of her father, and save the people of Deyadrum - in turn saving herself. She looks to a shadow to help her find her way and rid the realm of her father and the Corrupted.
I'll start with a lil bit about the writing style... this is present tense, first person, multi-POV. I personally loved the multi-POV first person narrative, giving a deeper insight into the characters emotions and thoughts. Just keep an eye on the names, indicating whose POV, at the beginning of each chapter so you don't get confused!
The book throws you directly into action and intrigue, delving into the world-building from page one. And I loved the world-building in this book - reading it felt effortless and non-confusing, whilst giving depth to the settings and the lore. The pacing of this book, although very descriptive, was on point for me. I will say the first 30% I read more slowly, but the remainder of the book I absolutely ate up and when a chapter finished, I was desperaaaate to start the next.
Our FMC, Emma, is trauma-filled and cracked from a life of physical and mental pain inflicted by her father and her experience of loss. Some of the emotional scenes with Emma hurt so goddamn bad, especially toward the end, and you feel every ounce of her pain. But you also feel every ounce of her power. She is a fiesty fighter through and through, and despite the agony she's experienced, she wants to do good by her realm and her people. Emma is conflicted, both emotionally and magically, her turmoil throughout the book is a key element of her story.
Gods, Prince Draven... dark, delicious, moody, guarded - has many secrets... THE perfect MMC. He is powerful and possessive and violent - an enemies to lovers dream. And his nicknames for Emma just - well, they set me on fire from the inside out.
And the spice, folks! THE SPICE. To say Ali had me hot under the collar would be an understatement. Sexy and dark, with a hint of k!nk... Do read the trigger warnings for both the spice AND for the book in general.
I warn you... the cliffhanger is INTENSE and the last few chapter had me crying, sobbing, screaming and generally being an emotional mess.
I cannot wait to read the next book in the series and see what unfolds! I am DESPERATE to find out what happens to the characters, book two cannot come soon enough.
Read this book if you like... <3
Magic • Enemies to Lovers • Multi-POV (with FMC & MMC POVs!) • In Depth World-Building & Lore • Nightmare Tropes • Found Family (I feel this will develop more in book two!) • Fun Banter • Spice & K!nks • BUT READ TRIGGER WARNINGS
December 20, 2022
I received this as an ARC for an honest review…
ALI!!!! What did you do to me and these feelings?!?! This book ripped me apart and rearranged my heart and mind. Emma our feisty, sassy, stabby FMC… let me begin by saying I don’t know if I’ve ever quite felt seen and heard as I have reading this book. Emma fights to control the darkness and dark thoughts from taking her over. Ooof it was too raw and real for me sometimes. Her secrets are hers but I love how she learns to trust people with them.
The world building in this was superb and dynamic and the banter oh god the banter! I was here for it from the start!
And can we talk about DRAVEN?!?! I bow to Ali for writing this man! He is sarcastic, brooding, and so so delicious and the mouth on him?!?! Sweet bebe Jesus! I can not handle him!!! I had to bite my lip and slap my hand over my mouth to stop from squealing so loud!
The plot twist and the ending… was not freaking expecting it and it damn near broke my heart. I can not wait for the next book!!! Ali again bravo! You did it lady! You freakin did it and I’m so proud!
When I say run don’t walk to get your hands on this masterpiece!!!
ALI!!!! What did you do to me and these feelings?!?! This book ripped me apart and rearranged my heart and mind. Emma our feisty, sassy, stabby FMC… let me begin by saying I don’t know if I’ve ever quite felt seen and heard as I have reading this book. Emma fights to control the darkness and dark thoughts from taking her over. Ooof it was too raw and real for me sometimes. Her secrets are hers but I love how she learns to trust people with them.
The world building in this was superb and dynamic and the banter oh god the banter! I was here for it from the start!
And can we talk about DRAVEN?!?! I bow to Ali for writing this man! He is sarcastic, brooding, and so so delicious and the mouth on him?!?! Sweet bebe Jesus! I can not handle him!!! I had to bite my lip and slap my hand over my mouth to stop from squealing so loud!
The plot twist and the ending… was not freaking expecting it and it damn near broke my heart. I can not wait for the next book!!! Ali again bravo! You did it lady! You freakin did it and I’m so proud!
When I say run don’t walk to get your hands on this masterpiece!!!
December 18, 2022
Definitely read the trigger warnings before reading this book, there is some heaviness, but it's written beautifully (I never knew that to be possible)
"When light and dark collide, your fate will be split in two."
This is one of my favorite quotes from this book that stood out to me the most .
I truly have absolutely no words. This book is absolutely AMAZING. Ali did such an amazing job with the world building, everything was described so beautifully and I never had to question anything. The character development was so amazing to see, especially with the main character. The plot to spice ratio was absolutely beautiful, the plot never overpowered the spice and the spice never overpowered the plot. The relationship development was really good as well. The female main character was written so well. She's one of the most relatable characters I've read about in a long while. I couldn't recommend this book enough. Definitely add it to your TBR and purchase it when it comes out.
"When light and dark collide, your fate will be split in two."
This is one of my favorite quotes from this book that stood out to me the most .
I truly have absolutely no words. This book is absolutely AMAZING. Ali did such an amazing job with the world building, everything was described so beautifully and I never had to question anything. The character development was so amazing to see, especially with the main character. The plot to spice ratio was absolutely beautiful, the plot never overpowered the spice and the spice never overpowered the plot. The relationship development was really good as well. The female main character was written so well. She's one of the most relatable characters I've read about in a long while. I couldn't recommend this book enough. Definitely add it to your TBR and purchase it when it comes out.
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