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Rivenwilde #1
Beyond the Filigree Wall
A dark curse. A deadly secret. The ill-fated girl at the heart of both.
Antonetta Ostwind is about to get everything she’s ever wanted. If all goes to plan, she’ll end the fae, steal back what was stolen, and win the post she’s dreamed of since she was a girl.
There’s just one problem. His name is Gideon Alexander.
Gideon holds the key to her coveted post. He’s fantastic with a sword, looks amazing in uniform, and commands even the adoration of his great, beastly dog. He’s living the life Etta needs.
Gideon doesn’t believe Etta should have any of it. In fact, he’s planning to make sure she never does. And that’s a real problem, because if Etta can’t take her post as marshal, how can she have her vengeance and save the kingdom from the prince of the fae?
Slip into clean, slow-burn romance with a properly stabby heroine and the low commitment of a standalone series in this light regency fantasy romp for fans of Enchantment of Ravens and Little Thieves.
Antonetta Ostwind is about to get everything she’s ever wanted. If all goes to plan, she’ll end the fae, steal back what was stolen, and win the post she’s dreamed of since she was a girl.
There’s just one problem. His name is Gideon Alexander.
Gideon holds the key to her coveted post. He’s fantastic with a sword, looks amazing in uniform, and commands even the adoration of his great, beastly dog. He’s living the life Etta needs.
Gideon doesn’t believe Etta should have any of it. In fact, he’s planning to make sure she never does. And that’s a real problem, because if Etta can’t take her post as marshal, how can she have her vengeance and save the kingdom from the prince of the fae?
Slip into clean, slow-burn romance with a properly stabby heroine and the low commitment of a standalone series in this light regency fantasy romp for fans of Enchantment of Ravens and Little Thieves.
205 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 6, 2022
194 people are currently reading
6129 people want to read
About the author
Melissa Wright
57 books1,528 followersMelissa is the author of more than a dozen YA and fantasy novels including The Frey Saga and Between Ink and Shadows. When not writing she can generally be found talking with an author friend about a book, painting something from a book, or tucked between headphones listening to a book. It’s kind of a theme. She loves reasonable heroines in unreasonable situations, noble--if brooding--heroes, slow burn and sweet kisses, a lot of havoc, and a little magic. Stay updated on works in progress at Instagram. Contact her through the web at www.melissa-wright.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 269 reviews
March 18, 2025
I must say, that was an entertaining story! I was throughly invested and very satisfied by that ending. I actually liked that the faes in this story were selfish, evil little trickers because that’s what I knew growing up. (Fairies = good but can play pranks, Faes = bad and selfish)
At first, I thought the main guy was a little too stuffy and she was a little too reckless, but as the book continued everything started making sense on why they were the way they were and what was going on, that there was more going on than meets the eye. It was well paced and I felt like well-done overall. I did struggle a few times following what was happening, because of the magic and fantasy elements. That could have just been me, though, full disclaimer. The banter was fun and while the romance felt a little lacking connection to me (their kisses felt a little out of the blue? I didn’t feel like they had much attraction prior to kissing), I definitely plan to continue on with the series to see what happens next.
Side Note: This new Kindle cover illustration by Ireen Chau is SO pretty!
Main Content-
Faes are evil beings that use magic to make deals with humans to their benefit; Etta has been able to see faes ever since seeing the Fae Prince kidnap her mother; Faes are described as wicked and sinister looking; Etta is put under a curse; Mentions of faes, curses, their magic, etc.
Fighting (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of a murder & body (barely-above-not-detailed).
There’s a couple mentions of praying, but not to Who it’s towards; The phrases “fates protect us”, “fates save me”, “thank the fates”, “saints” (as an exclamation), and “saints protect me” are said often.
No language stronger than ‘stupid’ or ’idiot’; Phrases that could be similar to curses are said for this fantasy world (“By the gate”, ) are used frequently; A mention of calling someone an ass (implied as a donkey in the terms of being stubborn); Etta also curses but it’s not written out.
About ten kisses (one being detailed and the rest ranging from barely-above-not-detailed to semi-detailed); Noticing muscles and his bare chest (semi-detailed); There’s a misunderstanding between Etta and her male friend that Gideon has (implied a tête à tête with one of them partially undressed due to an accident); Mentions of Etta’s friend who is known to be a rake and has been involved with many women.
At first, I thought the main guy was a little too stuffy and she was a little too reckless, but as the book continued everything started making sense on why they were the way they were and what was going on, that there was more going on than meets the eye. It was well paced and I felt like well-done overall. I did struggle a few times following what was happening, because of the magic and fantasy elements. That could have just been me, though, full disclaimer. The banter was fun and while the romance felt a little lacking connection to me (their kisses felt a little out of the blue? I didn’t feel like they had much attraction prior to kissing), I definitely plan to continue on with the series to see what happens next.
Side Note: This new Kindle cover illustration by Ireen Chau is SO pretty!
Main Content-
Faes are evil beings that use magic to make deals with humans to their benefit; Etta has been able to see faes ever since seeing the Fae Prince kidnap her mother; Faes are described as wicked and sinister looking; Etta is put under a curse; Mentions of faes, curses, their magic, etc.
Fighting (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of a murder & body (barely-above-not-detailed).
There’s a couple mentions of praying, but not to Who it’s towards; The phrases “fates protect us”, “fates save me”, “thank the fates”, “saints” (as an exclamation), and “saints protect me” are said often.
No language stronger than ‘stupid’ or ’idiot’; Phrases that could be similar to curses are said for this fantasy world (“By the gate”, ) are used frequently; A mention of calling someone an ass (implied as a donkey in the terms of being stubborn); Etta also curses but it’s not written out.
About ten kisses (one being detailed and the rest ranging from barely-above-not-detailed to semi-detailed); Noticing muscles and his bare chest (semi-detailed); There’s a misunderstanding between Etta and her male friend that Gideon has (implied a tête à tête with one of them partially undressed due to an accident); Mentions of Etta’s friend who is known to be a rake and has been involved with many women.
May 16, 2023
This book was so confusing to follow along. The entire book they danced around the curse, understanding the villain, and trying to figure out how it’s all related with no explanation. The whiny, immature main character was difficult to even want to see win. I guess it’s an enemies to lovers trope? With absolutely no slow burn. All of a sudden the MFC and the MMC went from hate to making out in two seconds there was no buildup at all so their connection never made sense.
December 21, 2022
With this single book, Melissa Wright is now at the top of my 2022 New To Me Authors. <3
Absolutely loved the entire atmosphere (it's Regency but also with some more modern twists so I don't call it fully Regency) and the prose (it FEELS very appropriate for the story and very fast paced and intense and clicked with me so much so that I'd MEANT to read a couple of chapters to get a feel of the story but then stayed up 'till the wee morning hours and next thing I knew I'd read almost half xD). I love fast-paced stories that still use relatively long sentences and long paragraphs because it's something I'd love to learn as a writer.
I relate to Etta a lot in her determination and perseverance (despite the lack of support) in doing the right thing and fighting for herself (well, and also her flaw of being very, very stubborn). (Also: P&P vibes 'cuz Gideon IS a total secret cinnamon roll despite having a very hardened, proper exterior.) Etta and Gideon deserve some fireworks, and while I'd hoped for some more development between them, I think the story is still well done because the focus is more on the mystery of the fae curses.
The mystery and climax is of the mystery sort, so no epic battles or super complex plotlines, but since I'm a Sherlock fan I absolutely love the same vibes.
If you like immersive, fast-paced reads with a period atmosphere and fae magic, this is for you.
Looking forward to the next installment! This is a standalone series, but a Nickolas + Jules story is BOUND to be AWESOME.
✅ Characters: ✨✨✨✨✨
✅ Atmosphere/Setting: ✨✨✨✨✨
✅ Writing Style: ✨✨✨✨✨
✅ Intrigue: ✨✨✨✨✨
✅ Logic/Relationships: ✨✨✨✨✨
✅ Enjoyment: ✨✨✨✨✨
✨Tropes✨
💕 enemies to lovers
💕 secret cinnamon roll
💕 hidden/secret identity
💕 rakish bestie
💕 spooky forest
💕 a fae curse
💕 forced proximity
💕there's only one settee
Content: PG13 on the mild side - some kissing and non graphic violence.
Thank you for reading! Please like this review if you’ve found it helpful, and feel free to leave a comment with any questions/comments!
PS The Signed Bookshop exclusive cover design (the red one) is Absolutely Gorgeous. Oh and the blurb for this book is perfect.
Absolutely loved the entire atmosphere (it's Regency but also with some more modern twists so I don't call it fully Regency) and the prose (it FEELS very appropriate for the story and very fast paced and intense and clicked with me so much so that I'd MEANT to read a couple of chapters to get a feel of the story but then stayed up 'till the wee morning hours and next thing I knew I'd read almost half xD). I love fast-paced stories that still use relatively long sentences and long paragraphs because it's something I'd love to learn as a writer.
I relate to Etta a lot in her determination and perseverance (despite the lack of support) in doing the right thing and fighting for herself (well, and also her flaw of being very, very stubborn). (Also: P&P vibes 'cuz Gideon IS a total secret cinnamon roll despite having a very hardened, proper exterior.) Etta and Gideon deserve some fireworks, and while I'd hoped for some more development between them, I think the story is still well done because the focus is more on the mystery of the fae curses.
The mystery and climax is of the mystery sort, so no epic battles or super complex plotlines, but since I'm a Sherlock fan I absolutely love the same vibes.
If you like immersive, fast-paced reads with a period atmosphere and fae magic, this is for you.
Looking forward to the next installment! This is a standalone series, but a Nickolas + Jules story is BOUND to be AWESOME.
✅ Characters: ✨✨✨✨✨
✅ Atmosphere/Setting: ✨✨✨✨✨
✅ Writing Style: ✨✨✨✨✨
✅ Intrigue: ✨✨✨✨✨
✅ Logic/Relationships: ✨✨✨✨✨
✅ Enjoyment: ✨✨✨✨✨
✨Tropes✨
💕 enemies to lovers
💕 secret cinnamon roll
💕 hidden/secret identity
💕 rakish bestie
💕 spooky forest
💕 a fae curse
💕 forced proximity
💕there's only one settee
Content: PG13 on the mild side - some kissing and non graphic violence.
Thank you for reading! Please like this review if you’ve found it helpful, and feel free to leave a comment with any questions/comments!
PS The Signed Bookshop exclusive cover design (the red one) is Absolutely Gorgeous. Oh and the blurb for this book is perfect.
Read
May 3, 2025A fast-paced little fantasy adventure with enemies to lovers, court intrigue, a creepy fae villain and a touch of screwball comedy. Went down very easily indeed!
Want to read
December 29, 2022Excited to dive into this one! One of my besties gifted it to me for Christmas. The artwork in the paperback is GORGEOUS 🥰
December 9, 2023
I'm always a little on the fence when it comes to indie books - on one hand, I do want to support self-published books and one can find some real gems in there. On the other hand, they can be downright bad because just about anyone can put them out there and, honestly, one can't trust reviews because I find the more five star reviews an indie book has the more likely I won't enjoy the book in question. I came across Beyond the Filigree Wall because a friend enjoyed it, Ireen Chau did some of the illustrations and it just seemed to have the right ingredients for me: fantasy of manners, enemies to lovers and fae mischief. I'm glad I gave this one a chance because it's a perfectly fun book and is definitely one of those indie books that makes them worth picking up.
Although it also has some dark eerie moments, this is largely a light read. It has fun characters and banter - not just the main couple but also among the supporting cast. The language and mannerism is believable which is often a miss for me when it comes to this kind of setting. We have a nice strong and pragmatic female main character - Etta - who despite a few missteps seems to be doing a good job of playing both the fae and court games. I also enjoyed Gideon and actually wished his had been written in a dual POV.
Although I enjoyed the plot and world, I do think this book could have done with another extra 50 pages to flesh out the world. It's not that it didn't feel complete or alive, but some elements of the story felt a little under explained. It's a perfectly fine read but there was definitely room for more. I felt similarly about the romance. I love slow burn and this definitely was slow, especially on Gideon's end. I would have called Etta and Gideon's situation more rivalry than actual enemies to lovers but I enjoy that too. The rivalry part was well done and I enjoyed their romantic moments together, I just wish there had been a little more build up between the two, the change from one to the other came fairly late and the transition could have been done more smoothly. Otherwise, I thoroughly enjoyed this! There was a typo here and there but nothing major - let's be honest, plenty of non indie books have typos and my mind can fix that up well enough.
It's not without its faults but it's a charming addition to this genre of which I hope there will be more. This is also a series and author I will continue to watch an I would definitely recommend this to people who are looking for a light and fun fae romp with a bit of mystery solving and loveable characters.
June 25, 2023
This book is PERFECT for fans of The Cruel Prince and An Enchantment of Ravens! 🧝♀️
This is the first book in a series of standalones, so ideal for those who enjoy a fast paced and short fantasy novel. The romance is clean and with a very slow-burn enemies to lovers 👀❤️
The best part of the story is definitely the combination of a fierce FMC with a fast plot full of twists and turns! Etta is one of the few people who can see the fae, wicked and treacherous beings that love to strike a bargain. She’s prepared all her life for the position of Marshal and she won’t let the fae or the insufferable Gideon Alexander get in her way. When the fae trick her and steal her life from her, Etta will have to outsmart everyone in order to prove her innocence while bringing down the fae. The story is absolutely addictive and I INHALED IT in one afternoon! 😍
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy for review!
This is the first book in a series of standalones, so ideal for those who enjoy a fast paced and short fantasy novel. The romance is clean and with a very slow-burn enemies to lovers 👀❤️
The best part of the story is definitely the combination of a fierce FMC with a fast plot full of twists and turns! Etta is one of the few people who can see the fae, wicked and treacherous beings that love to strike a bargain. She’s prepared all her life for the position of Marshal and she won’t let the fae or the insufferable Gideon Alexander get in her way. When the fae trick her and steal her life from her, Etta will have to outsmart everyone in order to prove her innocence while bringing down the fae. The story is absolutely addictive and I INHALED IT in one afternoon! 😍
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy for review!
November 30, 2022
I ordered this book from The Signed Bookshop because based on the quotes and sneak peaks Melissa was sharing on Instagram I knew I was going to love it....and I LOVED IT!! SWOON!!!! Gideon forever! And the hilarious interactions between the heroine and her childhood brother-like best friend were just epic!! This is the first book I've read in hardback before Kindle, and the art for this book is just so beautiful! Absolutely one of my favorite reads this year! The pent up emotion and release that happens was so crazy! "Beyond the Filigree Wall" has such great lines! More than one that is now on my favorite romantic hero quotes and witty banter. Such a great stand-alone, and I can't wait for the next one in this series of stand-alones! If you like Kate Stradling you will love this!
February 13, 2024
Cute!
…
But is that enough? 🤨
…
But is that enough? 🤨
February 4, 2023
If you’re looking for a low commitment stand-alone fantasy then give this one a try! This has some really fun secondary characters who I really enjoyed and wouldn’t mind reading more from. You also get a dark brooding rule following Darcy type character which…who can say no to that.
Read if you like…
✨regency vibes
✨enemies to lovers
✨secret identities
✨a fae curse
✨low spice
✨great side characters
✨castle setting with a mysterious forest
Thank you @mtmctours for my beautiful copy!
Read if you like…
✨regency vibes
✨enemies to lovers
✨secret identities
✨a fae curse
✨low spice
✨great side characters
✨castle setting with a mysterious forest
Thank you @mtmctours for my beautiful copy!
February 4, 2023
'𝗦𝗵𝗲 𝗵𝗮𝗱𝗻'𝘁 𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗹𝘆 𝗯𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝘁𝗼𝘂𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗱 𝗯𝘆 𝗳𝗮𝗲 𝗺𝗮𝗴𝗶𝗰 - 𝗶𝘁 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝘀𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗽𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗷𝗲𝘀𝘁. 𝗘𝘁𝘁𝗮 𝗵𝗮𝗱 𝗯𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝗰𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗲𝗱. 𝗘𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗵𝗮𝗱 𝗯𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝗵𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝘄𝗮𝘀, 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗯𝗿𝘂𝘀𝗵 𝗼𝗳 𝗳𝗮𝗲 𝗽𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿, 𝗰𝗮𝗿𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗱 𝗼𝗳𝗳 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗺𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝘄𝗵𝗼'𝗱 𝘄𝗮𝗹𝗸𝗲𝗱 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗿𝗼𝗼𝗺.'
The first book in the 𝘙𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘯𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘥𝘦 series was unputdownable! Beyond the Filigree Wall is a YA Fantasy with a touch of romance, danger and a mission to take back what was stolen.
The story is fast-paced and with a cast of characters ranging from dangerous fae, an MC with mistaken identity, forbidden bargains and a chancellor who smell like roses and sandalwood but with a hard exterior, the reader is bound to devour this book from the first page to the last. With my favourite trope 𝘦𝘯𝘦𝘮𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘴 and a 𝘴𝘭𝘰𝘸 𝘣𝘶𝘳𝘯 𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦, I found it to be the perfect fantasy. The mystery of the forbidden Fae wall and Etta's connection to it had me gripped. Add Gideon to the mix and be prepared to swoon about this sword-wielding and sweet smelling chancellor. This magical fantasy is high on my recommendation list and I'm anxiously awaiting the next book!
Thank you MTMC Tours and the author for a gifted copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The first book in the 𝘙𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘯𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘥𝘦 series was unputdownable! Beyond the Filigree Wall is a YA Fantasy with a touch of romance, danger and a mission to take back what was stolen.
The story is fast-paced and with a cast of characters ranging from dangerous fae, an MC with mistaken identity, forbidden bargains and a chancellor who smell like roses and sandalwood but with a hard exterior, the reader is bound to devour this book from the first page to the last. With my favourite trope 𝘦𝘯𝘦𝘮𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘴 and a 𝘴𝘭𝘰𝘸 𝘣𝘶𝘳𝘯 𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦, I found it to be the perfect fantasy. The mystery of the forbidden Fae wall and Etta's connection to it had me gripped. Add Gideon to the mix and be prepared to swoon about this sword-wielding and sweet smelling chancellor. This magical fantasy is high on my recommendation list and I'm anxiously awaiting the next book!
Thank you MTMC Tours and the author for a gifted copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 28, 2023
The perfect whimsy-dark read with twists, lovable characters, and delicious romance!
July 14, 2023
Beyond the Filigree Wall isn’t exactly the type of story I’d naturally gravitate towards, but it turned out to be exactly what I needed at the moment. This light regency fantasy romp has dangerous fae, a delicious slow-burn sunshine/grump romance, hysterical banter, and an utterly enchanting atmosphere!
Antonetta Ostwind is about to become the next Marschal, which will finally allow her to take revenge on the fae for stealing her mother away from her. There is, however, one thing standing between her and that coveted position: Gideon Alexander. She somehow has to convince him that she is worthy of the position, which would be a lot less difficult if she wasn’t also just struck with a fae curse that has left her unrecognisable.
Now, I am not going to sit here and pretend that this was the most groundbreaking fae story I have ever read, but sometimes you just need a good escape read and this book delivered!
The pacing is quick, the plot is engaging, the world building is immersive, and the characters are so endearing! I am usually not the biggest fan of first-person perspective, but Etta was honestly such a fun and compelling heroine to follow. She is a fierce, resourceful and witty protagonist who will stop at nothing to achieve what she believes she deserves.
I also really liked all the character dynamics in here. Etta is used to being in the upper circles of the castle, but when she is struck with the curse and pretending to be a maid, she is suddenly faced with how the servants are living. I really loved seeing her worldviews shift and thought her character development was really beautiful to witness. The relationships that she establishes while in disguise are so heartwarming, and I absolutely loved that! Some of these side characters also just absolutely stole the show and I couldn’t get enough of them (looking at you, Nikolas!). Oh and there's a loyal guard dog who I absolutely adored, Clara deserves to be protected at all costs!
Also, can’t forget to talk about the delightful romance! This book definitely confirmed that I should just stay in the clean romance sphere, because this chaste and tender romance was perfect to me! I loved the slow and begrudging development of Gideon and Etta’s bond and their dynamic was just so great. And because this is such a clean romance, I got all giddy when they looked at each other in a certain way, or accidentally touched... and then, finally, kissed! Such a great build up of the romance!! Also, Gideon Alexander gives Mr. Darcy a run for his money in terms of broodiness and I was so here for it!
The whole mystery that drives the narrative forward gave me some great Sherlock Holmes vibes, which really fit the tone of this regency fantasy. I also loved the claustrophobic atmosphere of the castle and the haunting presence of the dark woods, which only added to the overall tension. And if you are sick of the sexified fae, then you have come to the right place. Here, you won't find hot winged dudes, but instead the fae are dangerous, deceptive and treacherous (like they are supposed to be) and I absolutely loved that!
All in all, I had a blast with this book and I can’t recommend it highly enough if you need a quick yet very fun regency style fantasy romp.
Beyond the Filigree Wall is filled to the brim with regency vibes, mystery, dangerous fae, hidden identity, slow-burn clean romance, and honestly just has a lot of heart. I can’t wait for more fun stories in this world!
Antonetta Ostwind is about to become the next Marschal, which will finally allow her to take revenge on the fae for stealing her mother away from her. There is, however, one thing standing between her and that coveted position: Gideon Alexander. She somehow has to convince him that she is worthy of the position, which would be a lot less difficult if she wasn’t also just struck with a fae curse that has left her unrecognisable.
Now, I am not going to sit here and pretend that this was the most groundbreaking fae story I have ever read, but sometimes you just need a good escape read and this book delivered!
The pacing is quick, the plot is engaging, the world building is immersive, and the characters are so endearing! I am usually not the biggest fan of first-person perspective, but Etta was honestly such a fun and compelling heroine to follow. She is a fierce, resourceful and witty protagonist who will stop at nothing to achieve what she believes she deserves.
I also really liked all the character dynamics in here. Etta is used to being in the upper circles of the castle, but when she is struck with the curse and pretending to be a maid, she is suddenly faced with how the servants are living. I really loved seeing her worldviews shift and thought her character development was really beautiful to witness. The relationships that she establishes while in disguise are so heartwarming, and I absolutely loved that! Some of these side characters also just absolutely stole the show and I couldn’t get enough of them (looking at you, Nikolas!). Oh and there's a loyal guard dog who I absolutely adored, Clara deserves to be protected at all costs!
Also, can’t forget to talk about the delightful romance! This book definitely confirmed that I should just stay in the clean romance sphere, because this chaste and tender romance was perfect to me! I loved the slow and begrudging development of Gideon and Etta’s bond and their dynamic was just so great. And because this is such a clean romance, I got all giddy when they looked at each other in a certain way, or accidentally touched... and then, finally, kissed! Such a great build up of the romance!! Also, Gideon Alexander gives Mr. Darcy a run for his money in terms of broodiness and I was so here for it!
The whole mystery that drives the narrative forward gave me some great Sherlock Holmes vibes, which really fit the tone of this regency fantasy. I also loved the claustrophobic atmosphere of the castle and the haunting presence of the dark woods, which only added to the overall tension. And if you are sick of the sexified fae, then you have come to the right place. Here, you won't find hot winged dudes, but instead the fae are dangerous, deceptive and treacherous (like they are supposed to be) and I absolutely loved that!
All in all, I had a blast with this book and I can’t recommend it highly enough if you need a quick yet very fun regency style fantasy romp.
Beyond the Filigree Wall is filled to the brim with regency vibes, mystery, dangerous fae, hidden identity, slow-burn clean romance, and honestly just has a lot of heart. I can’t wait for more fun stories in this world!
February 22, 2024
This cover is so pretty. I just had to read it, and it was entertaining with cute romance.
November 29, 2022
⭒ Rating: 3 stars
Ok I’ll be honest this was a weird one for me. I’m not entirely sure how I feel tbh. But I’ll try to explain…
I really enjoyed this world, it was interesting and I’m honestly excited for more. But (!!) I’m a bit disappointed that nothing much really happened plot-wise.
The actual pace of the book was pretty fast which was in its favor but plot-wise it was so slow and I feel like nothing much happened, and I get that this is gonna be a series of standalones with a continuous plot but it still felt like this first book went nowhere except a few things right at the very end.
The romance was cute but it also felt like much of nothing as well. I hope we get to see this couple in future books. And I am excited for Nichola’s book because I liked his character.
I wished we had learned more about the Faes and their world, and the past between these two species. Beyond the Filigree Wall was a intro into the world that doesn’t give you much of anything except for a taste of it. I really hope things will get better in the next book and we’ll learn more about, well, everything.
⭒ ARC kindly provided by the author, in exchange for an honest review.
♥ Tropes: fantasy, fae, enemies to lovers, quest-ish
⭒ Order at: Amazon US
⭒ Follow me on: Instagram ⁕ Tiktok ⁕ Pinterest ⁕ Facebook
Ok I’ll be honest this was a weird one for me. I’m not entirely sure how I feel tbh. But I’ll try to explain…
I really enjoyed this world, it was interesting and I’m honestly excited for more. But (!!) I’m a bit disappointed that nothing much really happened plot-wise.
The actual pace of the book was pretty fast which was in its favor but plot-wise it was so slow and I feel like nothing much happened, and I get that this is gonna be a series of standalones with a continuous plot but it still felt like this first book went nowhere except a few things right at the very end.
The romance was cute but it also felt like much of nothing as well. I hope we get to see this couple in future books. And I am excited for Nichola’s book because I liked his character.
I wished we had learned more about the Faes and their world, and the past between these two species. Beyond the Filigree Wall was a intro into the world that doesn’t give you much of anything except for a taste of it. I really hope things will get better in the next book and we’ll learn more about, well, everything.
⭒ ARC kindly provided by the author, in exchange for an honest review.
♥ Tropes: fantasy, fae, enemies to lovers, quest-ish
⭒ Order at: Amazon US
⭒ Follow me on: Instagram ⁕ Tiktok ⁕ Pinterest ⁕ Facebook
April 8, 2023
OK first off - check out this beautiful artwork that is on the naked hardback! Wow!
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This is the first book that I have read from this author, and so far I’m loving it. The writing is quick-paced and gets you into the world right away without the world building itself being overwhelming. I immediately loved Etta and how determined she is. And of course, I am loving the enemies to lovers slow burn feels between her and Gideon. I feel like there is a lot more we’re going to learn about him in this book.
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If you are a fan of fae fantasy with a slow burn romance and great characters, you should pick up this book!
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This is the first book that I have read from this author, and so far I’m loving it. The writing is quick-paced and gets you into the world right away without the world building itself being overwhelming. I immediately loved Etta and how determined she is. And of course, I am loving the enemies to lovers slow burn feels between her and Gideon. I feel like there is a lot more we’re going to learn about him in this book.
⠀
If you are a fan of fae fantasy with a slow burn romance and great characters, you should pick up this book!
November 29, 2023
A quick, easy adventure but not hard hitting. Well-written, and I like the cover.
November 4, 2023
The story started off well but then got boring for 50% of the book and only picked up near the end. Even then, things got confusing when Etta and Gideon were at the wall together and what happened in the council room at the end of the book. Maybe it's just me and I misunderstood what the author was trying to say/explain in the moment.
The romance was non-existent and then all of a sudden a kiss happens. I was expecting a better slow-romance. Etta's and Gideon's romance and banter had so much potential since he was set on preventing her from achieving her goals. Yes, they were in the same room together multiple times but 90% of it was her just organizing papers in the corner of his office and him doing whatever at his desk with barely any exchange of words of getting to know each other better.
The writing was fine though maybe a bit confusing at times? The premise was good and world building was interesting enough. Just not enough meaningful interaction between the main characters to build that romance.
The romance was non-existent and then all of a sudden a kiss happens. I was expecting a better slow-romance. Etta's and Gideon's romance and banter had so much potential since he was set on preventing her from achieving her goals. Yes, they were in the same room together multiple times but 90% of it was her just organizing papers in the corner of his office and him doing whatever at his desk with barely any exchange of words of getting to know each other better.
The writing was fine though maybe a bit confusing at times? The premise was good and world building was interesting enough. Just not enough meaningful interaction between the main characters to build that romance.
December 6, 2022
4.5⭐️ rounded up for Goodreads
I really enjoyed this story.
It was a quick, fast paced fantasy read; which was exactly what I needed.
Read if you enjoy
>> Fantasy Worlds
>> Fae- not the good kind
>> Secrets and Lies
>> Strong FMC
>> Enemies to lovers
>> Even more secrets and lies
I really enjoyed this story.
It was a quick, fast paced fantasy read; which was exactly what I needed.
Read if you enjoy
>> Fantasy Worlds
>> Fae- not the good kind
>> Secrets and Lies
>> Strong FMC
>> Enemies to lovers
>> Even more secrets and lies
November 11, 2024
2.5 ⭐️ fighting for my life to not fall into a reading slump.
again, I was lost half the time. I did not seem to care for any of the characters with the exception of Nickolas (I kinda want to read his book).
It was short which I loveddd & quick paced, but I think it was a little too fast paced. I wish we had seen more development between the two main characters. I needed some more push & pull.
again, I was lost half the time. I did not seem to care for any of the characters with the exception of Nickolas (I kinda want to read his book).
It was short which I loveddd & quick paced, but I think it was a little too fast paced. I wish we had seen more development between the two main characters. I needed some more push & pull.
March 14, 2024
it’s cute and fast paced but don’t expect too much or some depth because there isn’t any.
May 4, 2025
‘Tis cuteness!
An enemies-to-lovers, fae curse, hidden identity, race against time, fast paced adventure! Etta took a bit to warm up to, but I genuinely liked Gideon.
The fast pace made this an easy, enjoyable read, but also unfortunately caused much of the world building to be lost in translation. The magic rules and set up felt unclear to me. The romance is light & a little rushed at the end but very cute!
And I’ve gotta say, Nickolas’s prison speech had me in STITCHES 😂 Gotta love an overreacting dramatic king! So glad for his story next!
Content: vague comments and incorrect insinuations about Etta being “involved” with a rake, who is just a friend to her; light kissing; magic & fae curses
An enemies-to-lovers, fae curse, hidden identity, race against time, fast paced adventure! Etta took a bit to warm up to, but I genuinely liked Gideon.
The fast pace made this an easy, enjoyable read, but also unfortunately caused much of the world building to be lost in translation. The magic rules and set up felt unclear to me. The romance is light & a little rushed at the end but very cute!
And I’ve gotta say, Nickolas’s prison speech had me in STITCHES 😂 Gotta love an overreacting dramatic king! So glad for his story next!
Content: vague comments and incorrect insinuations about Etta being “involved” with a rake, who is just a friend to her; light kissing; magic & fae curses
October 22, 2025
What even was this book? I don’t think I’ve ever been more confused when reading a book ever. Plot? What plot we were all over the place with very little coherence between events. Nothing about any of the curses felt thought out or explained enough for my liking and it felt hard to get into the story because of it. I feel like I can’t concretely tell anyone the events of this book because everything felt rushed and again, not coherent in any way.
Now onto our main characters. I will admit that I wasn’t a fan of either of them. To me they were both annoying in their own ways and felt very surface level. I immediately disliked Gideon as soon as he was introduced, and I feel like I didn’t see much growth or changes in either him or Etta. Also the romance really came out of nowhere and that was especially confusing at the end of the book. There has been on romantic inclination between the two the whole book and now all of a sudden we are kissing with like 3 chapters left? Make it make sense.
The only thing I somewhat liked was that in this story, the fae are depicted as trickers which I haven’t seen a lot in fantasy. It was a nice change of pace seeing tricksters instead of whatever they’ve become in fantasy these days. I was really looking forward to this book, but I will not be continuing on with the series.
Now onto our main characters. I will admit that I wasn’t a fan of either of them. To me they were both annoying in their own ways and felt very surface level. I immediately disliked Gideon as soon as he was introduced, and I feel like I didn’t see much growth or changes in either him or Etta. Also the romance really came out of nowhere and that was especially confusing at the end of the book. There has been on romantic inclination between the two the whole book and now all of a sudden we are kissing with like 3 chapters left? Make it make sense.
The only thing I somewhat liked was that in this story, the fae are depicted as trickers which I haven’t seen a lot in fantasy. It was a nice change of pace seeing tricksters instead of whatever they’ve become in fantasy these days. I was really looking forward to this book, but I will not be continuing on with the series.
April 16, 2023
I enjoyed this book, it was fast paced, set in a different, unique world. Etta was a quirky and strong. I like her development over the book, she was determined and knew what she w ages to achieve. Gideon was complex, but not in a bad way. Their romance took some time ' but was cute! A good read.
September 12, 2025
-3⭐
it was short and quick. i like the plot and the couple and the characters. i also liked that the faes are villians here. but i dont knooww. i didnt vibe with it and i dont think ill read the second and third one.
it was short and quick. i like the plot and the couple and the characters. i also liked that the faes are villians here. but i dont knooww. i didnt vibe with it and i dont think ill read the second and third one.
March 11, 2024
i loved this book so much! i really hope there’s a sequel in the works because i need more of this dynamic and i wish it was longer!
January 26, 2024
idk i kind of found this hard to get into
November 14, 2022
So much I didn't see coming in this book. Including how I was suddenly almost finished with it with out realizing it. It's not often I inhale a book in a day. The storytelling was immersive and vibrant, and I was able to picture what was going on easily. I really loved Etta, and felt like I could relate to her. She was independent, and rash, but she also grew in the story. I didn't like Gideon at the beginning. He was stuffy, a stickler to rules, but as the story was laid out it made sense he was the way he was, and I loved how he softened towards Etta. Going to be honest, I'm not usually a fan of enemies to lovers, mostly because many are written in a toxic way...and this one refreshingly was done beautifully.
If you're looking for a great coming of age fantasy story, with a very light side of clean romance be sure to add this to your shopping list.
If you're looking for a great coming of age fantasy story, with a very light side of clean romance be sure to add this to your shopping list.
May 13, 2024
I LOVE BOOKS THAT MIX FANTASY AND REGENCY/HISTORICAL THAT IS THE BEST COMBO EVEERRRERERER. also this cover??!!!? gorgeous.
November 25, 2024
SOLID STANDALONE.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
I needed something quick, fantasy and enjoyable and this hit all of those marks for me. It’s a 6-hour audiobook that brought some swoon, is in the sweet category and had some naughty fae causing chaos.
The main characters were great and I loved that it was dual POV. There’s not an over complicated plot and just enough happening that it works well within a short book. Definitely recommend for those wanted to mix things up and need a good slow burn.
Overall audience notes:
- Fantasy Romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: moderate
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
I needed something quick, fantasy and enjoyable and this hit all of those marks for me. It’s a 6-hour audiobook that brought some swoon, is in the sweet category and had some naughty fae causing chaos.
The main characters were great and I loved that it was dual POV. There’s not an over complicated plot and just enough happening that it works well within a short book. Definitely recommend for those wanted to mix things up and need a good slow burn.
Overall audience notes:
- Fantasy Romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: moderate
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