His Fae Lord

Folk of Vale #1

by Aramis Jordan

Young nobleman Henry is shocked when a dark fae lord demands his hand in marriage in exchange for the protection of his family’s lands. Fae are dangerous, and the handsome stranger he’s supposed to share a marital chamber with is no exception.

Tradition demands that Henry obeys his new husband, Malorn. He’s ready to give into his demands, but Malorn shocks him when he doesn’t insist on Henry’s services in the bedchamber. On the contrary, he makes Henry wait. Malorn’s aloofness turns the tables and drives Henry wild with desire. Ready to explode with need, it’s up to Henry to seduce him through complete submission.

As Henry and Malorn explore their lust-fueled connection, they’re blind to the danger closing in on their homeland.


His Fae Lord is a 65,000 word MM arranged marriage romance in a vivid fantasy setting. It features an intense love story, plenty of steam and an age gap romance between an inexperienced young man and a centuries-old fae lord.

His Fae Lord is a standalone romance in the Folk of Vale series. HEA guaranteed!

Genres: Fantasy, M M Romance, Fae, Romance, Paranormal, Magic, BDSM

236 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 4, 2023

About the author

Aramis Jordan is a self-professed MM romance addict and has vowed to write every book they’d love to read but cannot find. A firm believer in “the steamier, the better,” Aramis likes to turn up the heat in their paranormal romance novels.

Splitting their time between an office job and creative endeavors, Aramis’s life is powered by breakfast cereal and chai latte. When not writing or reading, Aramis enjoys going for scenic walks while listening to obscure rock music.

Reviews

[peach · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm still not entirely sure how I feel about this book. There was stuff that I liked in it, but also a lot of stuff that just didn't work for me.

Henry is unwillingly married off to the fae lord Malorn, and I really liked the soulbond part of the relationship and the strong devotion that developed between them. There was some interesting fae lore incorporated and I liked how the fae view on favours and debts played into the relationship. But I also felt like a lot of fae things that were brought up at the start, like their propensity for hurting and even killing humans for their own amusement was kind of forgotten about after a while, both by the author and the characters.

The sex scenes were long and plentiful. I'm typically not someone who minds a lot of sex scenes, but it felt like most of this book was sex scenes with a bit of romance in between and the bare minimum of plot to make it a series added at the beginning and end of the book. It just started to bore me after a while. And it didn't help that "love nut" was used as a euphemism for the prostate multiple times.

The BDSM element of the book felt like it could have been a really interesting addition, but the execution didn't work for me. Henry's desire to submit came and went out of nowhere and felt awkwardly handled. We're told that fae like hurting humans, but we never really get to see what that meant from Malorn's perspective other than in one impact play scene that I felt was a bit uncreative. In a world with fae magic and trickery and food/oils that affects the senses it just felt slightly underwhelming to get a run of the mill dungeon flogging scene. I also didn't love that Henry's only earlier experience with dungeons was that he had been punished there, but that discomfort was just ignored and forgotten about by both of them immediately.

I also wish we'd gotten to know Henry's sister a bit better, because it felt a bit like she was only added to the story to be a surrogate for Henry and Malorn without getting much characterization of her own. If the relationship between her and Henry was better I probably wouldn't have minded that part as much.

[True Loveislovereview · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another wonderful fantasy story from this author. I love the writing style, focused on exactly the things I love, and with just the right development.

Henry is forced by his brother James to marriage with a dark fae lord Malorn, in exchange for men who can defend James’ land. Henry is only nineteen and has no experience with men.
Only, Malorn is nothing Henry expected.
The fae is gentle, and won’t force Henry to do anything he doesn't want. Slowly Henry melts for Malorn.

Their bond sealing was breathtaking, literally, beautiful! And that was just the beginning of a wonderful relationship, build with trust, love, dedication, and super sexy time.


“I believe that humans seek explanations for everything while fae don’t mind living with ambiguity.”

Their souls caressing each other, seeking every corner, every hidden place was astonishing.
The author builds an amazing fictional world! With Fae, elf, orc, imps, and magic. With many beautiful delicate moments, and precious characters. Super intense, and super duper hot, imagine magical lube!!

Word of the month ‘nincompoop‘

[Rachel Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED this book! Aramis has written a great, steamy mm romance steeped in fae lore and tradition (faerie fruit, fae can't lie, words and how you say them are very important to the fae), while also making it something that feels very her.

If you're a fan of:
Great world building in a fantasy world with fae, orcs, and more
Arranged marriage
First times
Crazy great chemistry
A mate bond
Kink

You've gotta check out this story!

I clearly have a thing where in an arranged marriage the love interest waits for the other to fall for them and builds that trust before acting on it. LOVED how careful and patient Malorn was with Henry as they first got to know each other. Their chemistry was just excellent!

Gosh, I can't wait everyone else's stories. There will be like 2 series going on here it looks like - more with the fae, and then a hotter novella series with the orcs. Bring it on Aramis, I cannot wait for more!

I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.

[Alyssa · Rating 2 out of 5]

I barely got through this one. The premise sounded right up my alley, and I'm obviously a fan of smut, but this book did nothing for me. There was almost too much smut; I found myself skimming several pages worth at a time towards the end. There were plot points that were never addressed and the brother was confusing and awful. I also didn't like the way Henry would find random things to get upset over and then immediately apologize or change his mind. Also, all the weird sex language was cringey at times, like I think the prostate was described as a love nut at one point and I just CANNOT. Idk this was just not what I was expecting.

[Lisa KK]

The characters are too much of a caricature for my enjoyment.

[Alex · Rating 2 out of 5]

too bad, I thought the story would develop in another way, I had high expectations

[Bekka]

Where to even begin?
Okay
First thirty percent: rather plotty
Next fifty percent: sex
Last ten percent: plotty, brand new characters, setting up following books

Bruh. What even?
And then, the sex, which should have a telepathic loop from the get-go had no chemistry. I have read so many sex scenes where the characters connected on a much deeper level without their souls literally connected. If you have to tell me about the bond instead of it being described then it's not working (Hazard manages showing this connection beautifully).

Sex scenes just aren't sexy when they use too many euphemisms. I don't even know where to begin... defenseless and helpless gland, his love nut? Oh and the rivers, salvos, and sluicing of cum. It had the classic "thrust, one, two, three", the "special place buried deep inside men, a walnut-sized area of spongy tissue" and I can't remember the last time frenulum and glans were each mentioned 7 times...

NFSW infos:
- virgin human (19) bottoms at first but then buffs up and tops
- fae (200-ish) tops and dominates
- exploring masochism for the first time
- humiliation kink (also "slut" and "whore")

[Ren || Reading What I Want · Rating 4 out of 5]

𝗠𝗮𝗹𝗼𝗿𝗻 𝗻𝗼𝗱𝗱𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱 𝗛𝗲𝗻𝗿𝘆. “𝗜 𝘄𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝗵𝗶𝗺.”
———
“𝗬𝗼𝘂’𝗿𝗲 𝗲𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗿, 𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘁𝗹𝗲 𝗼𝗻𝗲. 𝗕𝘂𝘁 𝗜 𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗻 𝘆𝗼𝘂, 𝗜 𝗺𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗴𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝗻 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗲.”

His Fae Lord is book 1 in the Folk of Vale Series which will have a new couple for each book. Set in a truly magical, intricate world, I ended up really enjoying Henry and Malorn’s highly sensual romance. Henry is the “extra” son and controlled by his older brother. His stronghold and body are sold to the autumn court fae Prince in exchange for protection. The bond between the young human and the powerful fae was sweet and sexy. I thoroughly enjoyed their romance and I’m eager to read more from this world!

This was straight up erotica with a dose of plot. I’m not complaining but good lawd, there were literal CHAPTERS of detailed smut and it was wonderful. And it wasn’t just cut and paste. The scenes were interwoven with inner angst and monologue and acceptance and growth. The bond between Malorn and Henry developed beautifully. They may have been soulmates but Malorn was so patient and gentle as he helped Henry navigate his new life and build his self-esteem. It was swoon-worthy.

And the dirty talk? Superb 🤌🏻

I feel like this story was a good introduction to the world. Based on the conclusion, I feel like the plot is more a background to each novel and I can’t wait to see it develop as the world progresses!

QUOTE HIGHLIGHTS: 16
POV: 3rd, Dual
STEAM: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
TROPES: MM, Fantasy, Arranged Marriage
🅁🄰🅃🄸🄽🄶: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

𝘼𝙍𝘾 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙫𝙞𝙙𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙢𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙛𝙧𝙚𝙚. 𝙈𝙮 𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬 𝙞𝙨 𝙫𝙤𝙡𝙪𝙣𝙩𝙖𝙧𝙮.

[DLB2572 · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good Story

This is a good story but it took me a bit to get into it. I'm not completely sure what it was about it since I did enjoy it in the end. I just had to go back to it a few times in order to finishe it. I'm still interested in reading the next story in the series though.

I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion

[Eva]

DNF at 19%, both romance and writing style are firmly in the Not-to-my-taste camp.

[K-Me · Rating 5 out of 5]

I would give this romance more than 5 stars if I could. Mal and Henry are just so wonderful as individual characters and even more so together. I knew this book would have amazing steamy hot chemistry, but I was even happier with how much I actually adored these guys. We get a Fae Sized age gap since Henry is only a 19-year-old human. There is so much fun world building with Faes and even Orcs! I love every single minute of this read and I cannot wait for the rest of the series.

[Natalie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book one to a series that sets up the upcoming war, current and future characters, the fantasy world and its background. There is an extra short story that comes before this, His Fire Imp, where you get to know George and his imp. This is also the first book in the duel series for this continuing story.

Reading Order:
- Folk of Vale 0.5: His Fire Imp
- Folk of Vale 1: His Fae Lord
- Orc Invasion 1: Seized by the Orc
- Folk of Vale 2: His Elf Knight
- Orc Invasion 2: (TBA)

Henry and his inherited Stagfort are given to Malorn (dark fae lord) in exchange for his brother, James, to get fae soldiers in preparation for an impending Orc invasion.

James has tormented Henry his whole nineteen years of life. Henry is worried that he's going from one master to another, possibly worse one. Only, Malorn turns out to be kind, gentle and allows Henry to grow and feel freedom for the first time. Malorn never forced anything on Henry either, even though he could based on his station.

Henry does run away a lot when he is overwhelmed or conflicted, which was annoying for me personally. I understood the need to be alone with your thoughts but he kept basically running into possibly dangerous situations in order to get his breathing space. His headspace was all over the place at these moments but putting himself in danger is not helpful to anyone.

The bond sealing was written beautifully and I loved this aspect. It helped the MCs gain a deeper connection and they were always conscious of how the other was feeling.

Great read if you are a fan of:
- Fantasy (Fae, Orcs, Elves, Pixies, Imps, and more)
- World building
- Arranged Marriage
- Mate Bonding
- Kink
- Series reads

Verse: Yes
HEA: More of a HFN

[Nicole van Dongen · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I pick up one of Aramis's books, I expect to be drawn into a beautiful new world and showered with all the sexy times. His Fae Lord did not disappoint. The Folk of Vale and spinoff Orc Invasion series share such a creative background I was completely blown away. There is so many traditional Fae folklore and traditions included and woven in so that the reader feels familiar, but so many imaginative and exciting additions to keep you interested and wanting to learn more. I adored Malorn, who has reached the age where he wants to settle down and find a soulmate. A marriage of convenience with the house of Aranin will help him expand his power, extend the Autumn court, and get his hands on a human fort. The intriguing man that catches his eye is a surprisingly pleasant bonus. To be completely honest, Henry is not my favorite of Aramis' characters. He is very young and naïve. That being said, he is perfect for Malorn. He helps tame Malorn's darkest urges, and is willing to indulge in them as well. As they grow together and their relationship develops, we get an insight into the innerworkings of the human families of Vale, and some preparation for the war that is to come. There is one clearly BDSM scene, but the majority of the spicy times are much more traditional, but be prepared to blush!!! This book sets an amazing start to a series that I cannot wait to get my hands on ASAP!

[Pygmy Potamus · Rating 2 out of 5]

I can see why people did enjoy this one but it honestly didn’t appeal to me.

It has taken me about 4 sit downs to finish this one and although I think the writing was good and the descriptions of certain aspects of the characters relationships was promising it fell flat.

There was so much sex…and I’m not normally averse to smut but this one felt more like the plot was added to justify the sex. These scenes were really well written but by the end it was a bit…annoying? Over used? Especially when the author uses phrases like “love nut”. I wish we had seen more of the actual characters and their relationship development rather than just that they could feel each other’s emotions so the sex was better and it meant Henry beefed up.

Following on from this, I think I would have liked more showing. We are told a lot of things but we see none of it play out? For example Henry and his training to become stronger in body and mind. We are told he gets better but we don’t see it come into play until once again they have sex. We are also told about Malorns dark fae tendencies but apart from one BDSM scene (which I personally take with a pinch of salt as it rubbed me the wrong way) it isn’t explored or really shown at all??

I think the series has promise and the author is very talented with the descriptions and building of a characters core but I won’t be reading any more of this series.

I received an ARC copy and this is my honest review.

[P Leslie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Aramis Jordan truly outdone himself. I absolutely loved this book, it was freaking fantastic.

Poor Henry was an outsider in his own family. He needed someone to want, need, accept and love him unconditionally. His wish was granted but nothing prepared him for the Fae who wanted him.

Mal was an intriguing Fae: he saw the real Henry and approached him with care, patience and understanding.

Mal and Henry was crazy hot together. Their chemistry was all consuming, fiery and full of hunger. I could happily get lost in these two. The author captured their soul bond beautifully.

Highly recommend!

*I voluntarily read this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else's*

[Whitney · Rating 5 out of 5]

I already want to read it again

I'm going to be honest with you, I have no idea how to review this book. Not only did I devour it very quickly but it left me in a bit of a daze in the best way possible. I feel like I'm on a plane adjacent to subspace. That's how much I love this book. I'm going to be vague as to give nothing away but hopefully you can still follow along.

First of all, this book is so smarty. I was forewarned that smut is kind of Aramis Jordan's thing but I still wasn't really. But the smut never feels unwarranted. It all acts as a way to bring Malorn and Henry closer together. Even though there is an initial attraction between them it's still an arranged marriage for political reasons. So the smut feels like a form of intimacy that they otherwise wouldn't know. Even when it's depraved as (fae should always be) it's still caring. Tl:Dr they are adorable and Malorn is so doting it's the sweetest thing ever.

Secondly, oh my God is this book so imaginative!!! I've been screaming for I don't know how long about books lacking imagination these days. Yes there is writing to market but that really only applies to tropes. You can still take risk when it comes to plot structure and world building. And while the most seasoned high fantasy reader might argue otherwise, I think this book Not only follows some of the Fae and fantasy rules that we know and love but also makes its own. There are consequences in this book as are their rewards. Once a rule has been established in the world it's never broken and the characters have to abide by it. There's no plot holes here. There is a structure in place and it is planned to a T. That alone puts Aramis Jordan in a whole new category for me.

Thirdly, and this is admittedly a minor one, this book managed to take a character I thought was irredeemable and show another side of him that makes me look forward to the second book. I already have it pre-ordered. That's how deep I am with this series.

I thought I was not a high fantasy girly. Turns out I was just reading the wrong books. This book exciting and fun, with lush descriptions and political intrigue that never left me bored. The romance was at the forefront and it felt compelling and genuine. I cared about both these characters and the side characters! I am so beyond hyped to see what happens with Nathan and James it's not even funny. If you already like hypantasy you'll love this, plain and simple. But if you're new to high fantasy or It makes you nervous like me, I think this is a really good book that you can dive into. It won't make you feel dumb (and if you're worried about high fantasy you know what I mean). This is a beautiful romance set in a lush fantasy world as opposed to a high fantasy book that happens to contain a romance. If I could give it more than five stars, I would.

[Zoë Miranda · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wish I'd know that there is a prequel to this series. Book 0.5 - His Fire Imp. Goddess I find it irritating to have to sign up for every author's newsletter to read their entire collected works. Why?!?! At least advise me at the beginning of the story, maybe, so I can read everything in the correct order?

Sorry. Sorry. /rant

Irritation aside, I really enjoyed this book. I didn't realize I was was in the mood for something a little more fantastical until this popped up in a FB reader group I belong to. The synopsis tickled my fancy (gotta love arranged marriage/forced proximity) and I pretty much downloaded and devoured it right away. Since the book is set in a fantasy land there is some geography, history, and groups of people to wrap your head around so it took me a minute to get into. I had trouble with the map because some landmarks that were specifically mentioned weren't necessarily on the map and it's difficult to toggle back and forth in a digital format. Rest assured it isn't necessary for the enjoyment of the story (just my weirdo self likes to know where I am in time and space).

Nineteen-year-old Henry longs to be free and to be loved, but that doesn't seem to be his fate after his older brother negotiates his marriage to the much older dark fae lord, Malorn, of the Autumn Court. Love has evaded Lord Malorn over the course of his 220 years but when Henry catches his eye he impulsively asks for his hand - most men throw themselves at him trying to gain his attention and favour, but not sweet, virginal, Henry.

I thought the tension and chemistry between Malorn and Henry was magical. I enjoyed the metaphysical aspect of their soul-bond, which was an essential part of a fae wedding, and appreciated that the author didn't rely entirely on it as a device or substitute to seeing their relationship develop and character growth.

Reader be aware that there is a steamy scene of light, consensual, impact play at about the halfway point of the book, which came a little out of left field, not that I personally minded, just something that is usually trigger warned. If I'm being honest I was a little disappointed it was something so tame for a dark fae known for their dark urges. I was rather looking forward to something along the lines of primal play, which would have fit well into the story.

This book is rather relationship heavy at the expense of an overall series plot, which was introduced at the eleventh hour and as a result really disrupted the pacing of the book.

I'll happily read more by the author and am intrigued by Nathan's story with a barbaric orc coming later this spring... looks like I'll have to distract myself by diving into their series about some sexy mermen in the meantime.

[Brit_ta_ny · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book had lots of things I LOVE. Arranged marriage, unique worldbuilding, steamy scenes, a goshdern map and glossary of terms for said world, a kinky dungeon, kickass lady knights, and a happy ending for the MCs. It had two things I didn't love, one was the push/pull of Henry (after he ran away for the second time I was like, com'on bro) and the second thing is totally personal, but I cannot stand the term "love nut" and I think it was used like 3x just too close to each other. Nothing jolts me out of story like reading that...I know it's nothing to do with the actual story and romance but it gets under my skin a bit.

BUT I still recommend the book, once I got past that part and was back in the story I couldn't put the book down. I really liked Aramis Jordan's merman series, her worldbuilding in that series had been super unique and fun and they definitely don't disappoint in His Fae Lord! I appreciated the map and glossary at the beginning of the book and referred back when trying to visualize where the different places were.

I LOVED that the knights were women, and that it was totally normal in the society for a sister to carry a child for a brother in a same-sex marriage. As a queer person I've always loved books that take what we know and how we treat queer folks and make a new society where queerness is totally accepted and celebrated. I also appreciated how Malorn backed off Henry and embraced his desire for independence; it was lovely to see Henry thrive and grow in that setting (which was why I got annoyed when Henry kept running). I really liked Malorn, it's always nice to have an MC whose a little bit bad sometimes and I'm glad we got to see that a bit (though some more time in the dungeon with Henry would have been delightful!).

All in all I think this is a solid 4.5 star book, like I said, it's really my own preferences that made me take a half star off. But if rad worldbuilding, sexy dark faes, and happy queers are your thing then you should probably read it :)

I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.

[gena_bookish_reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

🆁🅴🆅🅸🅴🆆

𝙏𝙝𝙤𝙨𝙚 𝙙𝙖𝙧𝙠, 𝙘𝙧𝙚𝙚𝙥𝙮 𝙬𝙤𝙤𝙙𝙨 𝙬𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙝𝙤𝙢𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝘼𝙪𝙩𝙪𝙢𝙣 𝘾𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙛𝙖𝙚. 𝘾𝙧𝙪𝙚𝙡 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙥𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙡𝙚𝙨𝙨, 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙛𝙖𝙚 𝙬𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙨𝙖𝙞𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙡 𝙞𝙣 𝙝𝙪𝙢𝙖𝙣 𝙢𝙞𝙨𝙚𝙧𝙮.

You can look forward to:

🖤 A young man who loves to please his Fae husband
🖤 Fantasy but it's a kinky one 🔥
🖤 Humans/Fae/Elves/Orcs
🖤 Female God 🔥
🖤 Women are above men in hierarchy
🖤 Orcs can ravish men 😏
🖤 Lots of steam 🥵

Perfect for what it is: a filthy fantasy romance that made me sweat. Writing was good. Sex was off the charts. I'm telling you.. the steam level is explosive 🔥

I was not prepared for this book. At all. I'm not the biggest fan of fantasy so I was very wary of what I was about to read. I'm not a person who likes maps, and fantasy settings but gaaaaahh here I am fangirling ✨✨✨

This is an arranged marriage story. Henry is forced to marry a Fae lord after his brother makes him understand that it's not in his hand to deny. He is supposed to obey and serve him. And trust me, after he experiences how good it can be.. all he wants is to serve him. 👀

𝙃𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙈𝙖𝙡𝙤𝙧𝙣’𝙨 𝙝𝙪𝙨𝙗𝙖𝙣𝙙, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙝𝙚’𝙙 𝙜𝙡𝙖𝙙𝙡𝙮 𝙗𝙚 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙬𝙝𝙤𝙧𝙚 𝙞𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙝𝙚 𝙜𝙤𝙩 𝙞𝙣 𝙧𝙚𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙣. 𝙃𝙚’𝙙 𝙨𝙚𝙧𝙫𝙚 𝙝𝙞𝙢 𝙤𝙣 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙠𝙣𝙚𝙚𝙨 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚 𝙞𝙛 𝙞𝙩 𝙢𝙚𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙝𝙚 𝙜𝙤𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙚 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨.

The push/pull between the characters is frustrating AF but makes sense because they are both dealing with cultural differences. One is human and the other is Fae. They have trust issues, insecurities and even stubbornness when dealing with each other. There were some emotional scenes too 😭

I am shocked by how much I liked this. I thought I would like it, sure, *ahem it's Aramis Jordan 🖤🖤* but I ended up being super invested in the characters and plot. Excellent writing and I'm definitely already obsessing with the rest of the series! 🔥🔥

[Emily Hernandez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Henry and Malorn's story was a fascinating fantasy romance with intriguing characters and a steamy love connection. I've read all of this author's spicy mermen books, and I have to say I was pleasantly surprised by how much plot and world-building were mixed in with the sexy times in this series. Henry and Malorn were well-rounded, interesting characters, and I was drawn in by their arranged marriage that turned into something so much more. Henry was rightfully furious at the position he'd been put in, and his initial distrust made it all the more satisfying to see him realize that Malorn would never take away his agency. As he and Malorn got to know each other and grow their trust in each other, I felt a powerful emotional bond taking root in both of them. It was worth the wait for steamy bits to know that neither man felt coerced into falling into bed with each other, and holy heck did they have incredible chemistry together once they did. It was wonderful to see Henry receive the love and honesty he deserved, and though Henry may have been more submissive in the bedroom, he held plenty of power in his relationship with Malorn. I loved seeing the two of them be vulnerable and open with each other through their soulmate bond, and even though Henry had moments of fear and uncertainty, he showed tremendous growth in his confidence in Malorn. The two of them felt like an epic power couple by the end of the book, and though the larger storyline was left open-ended, I have no doubt that Henry and Malorn are set for a blissfully happy rest of their lives together.

**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions. 

[Kate · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was really interested in the premise of this book. Henry, a young man and lord, is bartered by his controlling brother. In order to obtain the protection of a substantial fae army, Henry's brother trades a run-down keep and his brother's hand in marriage to a Prince of the Autumn Court. The dark prince, Malorn, is the most powerful fae in the Autumn Court and likely soon to be king.

I liked the portrayal of Henry, and his personal growth throughout the novel, but I felt in general the premise was squandered. Aside from a few allusions to murdering humans through poisoned food, the Prince is too smitten to resemble a dark fae at all. He is conscientious about consent, thoughtful, and in no way a trickster. Even his administration of the Autumn Court seems boringly bureaucratic. The only way he seems fae, besides some powers, is that he is a master lover. And boy is he a master lover. The exploration of. the magical bond fae share with their spouses only added to the sex scenes, making the physical metaphysical.

I guess I was hoping for some tension between what Malorn was to Henry and Malorn as a dark fae lord. He did not seem like a morally ambiguous character at all, especially when viewed in contrast to Henry's brother. That made me wonder, why bother with the dark fae premise at all?

There's a lot telling in this book. I could have done with more revealing through scenes and less through narrative explanation.

[Janice Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Henry is the second son of minor royalty, from which his brother the baron inherited all of their property except for one manor house and a bit of land bordering the dark fae’s kingdom. When his brother invited the fae lord to negotiate terms in exchange for protection, instead of accepting a mutually beneficial arrangement with the baron, the dark fae lord chose Henry instead. Henry is sick of never having a choice in anything, but he reluctantly agrees to the marriage. Henry is surprised and a bit distrustful of his new husband’s caring and thoughtful ways. Malorn allows Henry to come to him when he is ready. Malorn’s sweet, loving manner allows Henry to drop his guard and he starts to fall for his husband. He finally is ready for more and they have a powerful and passionate connection.

I loved this book. I did not think I would have liked it because of the strange customs and strange land, but the fae lord is genuine in his caring and for the respect that he gives Henry. Both MC’s are very relatable, but the way that Malorn treats Henry was so beautiful and passionate. All Henry was was to be free of his brother and to be loved; he received his wish in the form of his handsome, loving husband. The MC’s had explosive chemistry and the bedroom scenes were very steamy, which I loved. I cannot wait to read more in this series.

I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tashyka · Rating 5 out of 5]

Set in a world populated by humans, Fae, imps, and orcs, this is the first book in the Folk of Vale series. Henry, second son of House Aranin, has spent his entire life under the thumb of his cruel older brother, James. Henry wishes he could break free from James' shadow and start his own life. The worst possible way for him to escape his brother is through an arranged marriage to the evil Fae Lord of the Autumn Court, Malorn.
Malorn is used to having men fall all over themselves to be with him, but something about the mysterious and attractive Henry inspires an instant attraction in him. He wants Henry more than anything else from the human race.
The setting and the characters were fantastic. Henry's relationship with his brother makes it hard for him to accept Malorn's feelings for him. Even if Malorn is the most powerful Fae lord in the court, Henry still has complete control over him.
An arranged marriage, soulmates, a fantastical new world, and plenty of heat all make for one unforgettable romance.
I enjoyed it very much and look forward to reading the rest of the books in the series.I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.

[L.D. · Rating 4 out of 5]

His Fae Lord is the first book in the Folk of Vae series, a wonderful fantasy series within an interesting world that I found fresh and unique. I love fantasy books – I love the tropes, the magical creatures, and everything that comes with it. Aramis Jordan gives me all the stuff I love, but in a different way – knights are women because men are the vulnerable ones – and I found it fascinating.

Henry is such a sweet guy stuck in a horrible situation – his brother has married him off without his consent. But, what could have been a horrific situation, turns out to be anything but. Malorn, Henry’s powerful fae husband, is caring and loving towards him. The romance blooms not because Malorn and Henry are married, but because of the gentle patience and tenderness that creates trust and love. The chemistry was hot – so, so, so hot – with a soul bound that intensified everything. The soul bound had to be one of my favorite things this book. I love this world the book is set within and I can’t wait to see what else it has in store for me.

[DebbieReadsBooks · Rating 3 out of 5]

Independent reviewer for GRR, I was gifted my copy of this book.

For the most part, I really did enjoy this. It landed in my queue right at the time I needed it to, and it hit that spot I needed hitting.

BUT

There are some repetitive words used, that kept popping up almost every time these two got their smexy on, and it started to spoil the book for me.

That said, I did enjoy the story of Henry and Malorn, and just how much Malorn needed Henry as much as Henry's brother needed Malorn's army. I loved how Malorn managed to keep the darker side of himself hidden for so long and I LOVED how it did not take over the book nor their smexy times. All too often, the BDSM side takes over a story and everythign else gets lost, but not so here.

I'd love to have the chance to read future books in the series, because the back story is incomplete and I want everyone to be happy.

3 good solid stars

*same worded review will appear elsewhere

[Debby · Rating 5 out of 5]

No one is more surprised than Henry, a young nobleman, when his inheritance is bartered away in exchange for protection of his brother’s lands. Then the fae lord demands Henry become part of the bargain as his husband. Henry has always heard that the Fae are dangerous and is surprised when Malorn does not demand his conjugal rights their first night together. This causes Henry to crave him even more. As the two finally explore their needs, danger approaches.

This was a delightful and very hot story. Malorn was amazing with the virginal Henry – tender, thoughtful and considerate. Henry had never had a say in his life but soon realized that he was willing to submit to Malorn to experience what he never imagined would be so incredible. It was fun and very hot to watch as they explored each other and their growing bond. There will be more set in this world with trouble brewing with cruel neighbors.

[Cara · Rating 1 out of 5]

It's a boring DNF and a slug to get through

You'll be questioning what the plot is throughout the book. Or waiting for something to pop up. It's not fun and it's a very slow read toward nothing. And asking about some help with this fae stuff, which you don't get.
About 40% through I got bored of the guessing game and lack of plot, etc. It's a DNF but I powered through it and regret my time wasted. The marriage happened fairly quick...so the rest I wasn't really sure what we were doing? Or where we were going.
Less is more. And with 30+ pages of repetitive s*x it gets so dull. Which goes on another 3 times then 20+ of the whip scene...we get it. I end up skipping the scenes as it's just boring. Same as all the other books. It's so long, drawn out, over the top it's not great.
At 70% I skimmed alot. It's not a great book and I don't recommended at all.

Cancelled all my preorders for future books.

[Kat reads romance · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great new fantasy mm, His Fae Lord was steamy and entertaining. The world-building was mercifully brief and simple. Mostly the novel keeps its focus on the romance and arranged marriage of young Henry and the fae lord Malorn. I love the arranged marriage trope, and this did not disappoint. Their romance is sweet, with Malorn genuinely caring for Henry from the beginning and Henry slowly coming into his own. I liked their dominant-submissive dynamics and intense chemistry.
My only complaint is the formal dungeon BDSM scene. It was jarring, I felt as though I was transported from the fantasy world to a cheesy contemporary BDSM novel.
Overall this kept my attention and the plot intrigued me. I look forward to the next book!
*I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review*

[Trip]

DNF @ 53% / Ch 13

Honestly this started off well, I liked Henry & Marlorn seemed interesting. Sadly things jus took a weird turn and aspects conflicted each other, it just didn't make sense. I usually don't mind BDSM, but it felt really random/abrupt and considering Henry's negative past experiences with being pushed about & locked in dungeons etc... it came out of nowhere and didn't really make sense.

Also with the fae aspect it seemed to come and go with the harmful aspects towards humans and then another moment indifference. Everything just came across rather conveniently, dismissing previous comments and It wasn't working for me. Both of them are just very wishy washy in their feels and considering soul bond, feel each others emotions it seemed to switch on and off when they liked

[MM Book · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had a hard time giving His Fae Lord only four stars. I had wavered and wanted to give it five stars. There are things/tropes that are my favorites and are in this story like:

Large age gap - Malorn is 220 years old and is in his final life span. Whereas Henry is just 19 years old. So he's really just begun his adulthood

Forced Or Arranged Marriage: As with any nobility, it is common for their liege lord to make an advantageous marriage for their family. So we get Henry's arranged marriage to Malorn by his big brother, James.

What I don't like about the story and why I gave a 4 star rating is due to trhe BDSM. I'm not a fan of it. But it was a good thing I didn't know about it beforehand or else I would have missed this great story!