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Elemental Viria #1
Sleep and Spirit
As the only female born into a royal family in over four hundred years, freedom was never going to an option.
Gifted with the elements of all five kingdoms, Aurelia had never known a minute of peace. No Virium was ever meant to hold all five elements and now they war inside her, keeping her from rest.
Upon turning twenty-one, Aurelia takes the reins of her magic and destroys the tower she was raised in. Taking the only opportunity she’s ever had for freedom, she flees in the night in an attempt to escape her future and the four princes who all expect her hand in marriage.
Though she might find friendship, happiness and love in the depths of the forest, her father will stop at nothing to bring her back and use her for his gain.
Gifted with the elements of all five kingdoms, Aurelia had never known a minute of peace. No Virium was ever meant to hold all five elements and now they war inside her, keeping her from rest.
Upon turning twenty-one, Aurelia takes the reins of her magic and destroys the tower she was raised in. Taking the only opportunity she’s ever had for freedom, she flees in the night in an attempt to escape her future and the four princes who all expect her hand in marriage.
Though she might find friendship, happiness and love in the depths of the forest, her father will stop at nothing to bring her back and use her for his gain.
394 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2022
536 people are currently reading
8583 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 440 reviews
November 29, 2022
I was given this ARC in return for an honest review. Initially, I wasn’t sure how long it would take me to get this read. It was a slow start and I did consider DNF-ing, but I never do that and decided I wouldn’t start now. I am glad I continued and I finished it in a day, once the story picked up. It was actually really good. The characters are likable and tho the world building isn’t complex, it’s not bad or lacking. It’s marketed as an adult fantasy, but it reads very much like a YA book. The language is simple and there are several grammatical errors. I think it could be greatly improved with the aid of editors and beta reads to help with structure and verbiage. If those issues were resolved this would easily be a 4-5 ⭐️ read.
December 13, 2022
AHHHHHH!!! I’m obsessed with this world. Deep, vivid, unique world-building meets an entertaining character arc, with sooo many unanswered questions. I got hooked pretty quickly, and the writing just got better as I went. Thorne took on an overpowered, over sheltered, naive young character and spun a tale that pulled her into her power. Can’t wait for #2
November 14, 2022
Such a great book!! There were some slow parts but it really picked up and the ending was not what I was expecting! Can’t wait to read the next one!
February 1, 2023
I think I need to stop reading Booktok books. I ‘understand’ the struggles of being used as a puppet by your evil father, but this was her whole personality, being angry. I think if it was done differently it wouldn’t of annoyed me as much, but the main character had no personality other than rebellion, which again is understandable. BUT this book was boring to say the least, and I probably won’t be reading the sequel, as I don’t wish I know what happens between Briar and Llyr. The powers and world building was interesting but reminded me a lot of Avatar once I tried to explain it to someone. This unfortunately really fell flat.
January 17, 2023
""The Golden One". The king knew the moment she was born that she would usher in a new era for his kingdom, one of gold and power and prosperity."
I was so lucky to receive an ARC from Courtney Thorne through BookFunnel of Sleep and Spirit! I must admit that this was my first fantasy book that I've read since I started my reading journey 6 months ago. I became VERY nervous the MOMENT I saw the pronunciation guide / definitions page... and not to mention the fact that I read the prologue SEVERAL times to try and keep all of the characters straight before I dove in. (Now that I've completed the read, I'm grateful for the guide - it's brilliant!)
"As if I were some prize to be won. I guessed in their eyes, my hand in marriage would be a prize. They would have one thing that no other Royal in the realm had. A bride."
Once I got over the small amount of fear I had in a new genre, the book totally, completely and utterly sucked me in. This is a well deserved 5 star read, and I cannot wait for book #2.
"For twenty-one years, I was locked in the confinement of my bedroom. I had always been my parents' prisoner, unable to even experience the sunlight."
The characters were described so well that you truly loved them, or hated them. There was honest friendship, trash, a mirage that turned into trash, a beacon of hope (that was also the spice that I didn't expect, but loved), a kindred soul, and a dream.. come true.
"I hope you choose yourself, Aurelia."
The whole book was an experience: twists and turns, the feelings felt on behalf of the characters, the arranged marriages, the kidnapping/murder, the Rapunzel/Tangled vibe, everything! It was truly great from all angles - especially for the fact that Courtney included topics that aren't always 100% supported in conversations (but they should be) like body image, sex/body count, gay marriage, etc.
Don't sleep on Sleep and Spirit, y'all.
*I received an ARC through BookFunnel and am posting this review voluntarily.
I was so lucky to receive an ARC from Courtney Thorne through BookFunnel of Sleep and Spirit! I must admit that this was my first fantasy book that I've read since I started my reading journey 6 months ago. I became VERY nervous the MOMENT I saw the pronunciation guide / definitions page... and not to mention the fact that I read the prologue SEVERAL times to try and keep all of the characters straight before I dove in. (Now that I've completed the read, I'm grateful for the guide - it's brilliant!)
"As if I were some prize to be won. I guessed in their eyes, my hand in marriage would be a prize. They would have one thing that no other Royal in the realm had. A bride."
Once I got over the small amount of fear I had in a new genre, the book totally, completely and utterly sucked me in. This is a well deserved 5 star read, and I cannot wait for book #2.
"For twenty-one years, I was locked in the confinement of my bedroom. I had always been my parents' prisoner, unable to even experience the sunlight."
The characters were described so well that you truly loved them, or hated them. There was honest friendship, trash, a mirage that turned into trash, a beacon of hope (that was also the spice that I didn't expect, but loved), a kindred soul, and a dream.. come true.
"I hope you choose yourself, Aurelia."
The whole book was an experience: twists and turns, the feelings felt on behalf of the characters, the arranged marriages, the kidnapping/murder, the Rapunzel/Tangled vibe, everything! It was truly great from all angles - especially for the fact that Courtney included topics that aren't always 100% supported in conversations (but they should be) like body image, sex/body count, gay marriage, etc.
Don't sleep on Sleep and Spirit, y'all.
*I received an ARC through BookFunnel and am posting this review voluntarily.
January 5, 2023
I received an arc of this for my honest review.
I just couldn’t vibe with this book.
The pacing seemed off. I skimmed a lot.
There was a lot of repetition. Hence the skimming.
A lot of the word “giggle” and a lot of “rolling the eyes”.
Also too many “!” Which reminds me more of YA.
I didn’t enjoy the insta love. Or the insta lust.. the relationships explored in this book was confusing to me.
I didn’t like any of the characters. It just seemed like no one in this book had substance. The character development of the FMC didn’t really make sense to me. Half the book she was this naive scared little mouse, then BAM! She’s a badass in a blink of the eye. It was like whiplash. A 180. I didn’t get it.
This also read more like a YA novel. She acted more like a 16/17 yr old who drops the F bomb sometimes, instead of a 20/21 yr old. She was very immature (granted she was locked in a tower).
Speaking of the locked in a tower business, she wasn’t really. She snuck out all the time. She was this all powerful wizard lady but choose to stay. She coulda just burned it down and left.
All in all this story just didn’t make sense to me. And I didn’t like the ending 🫣
This is a good start for a debut book. It just wasn’t my jam.
A big thing for me is to relate to a book’s characters. And I just couldn’t. So that was the downfall for me.
These are just my honest opinions. I hope the author has much success!
I just couldn’t vibe with this book.
The pacing seemed off. I skimmed a lot.
There was a lot of repetition. Hence the skimming.
A lot of the word “giggle” and a lot of “rolling the eyes”.
Also too many “!” Which reminds me more of YA.
I didn’t enjoy the insta love. Or the insta lust.. the relationships explored in this book was confusing to me.
I didn’t like any of the characters. It just seemed like no one in this book had substance. The character development of the FMC didn’t really make sense to me. Half the book she was this naive scared little mouse, then BAM! She’s a badass in a blink of the eye. It was like whiplash. A 180. I didn’t get it.
This also read more like a YA novel. She acted more like a 16/17 yr old who drops the F bomb sometimes, instead of a 20/21 yr old. She was very immature (granted she was locked in a tower).
Speaking of the locked in a tower business, she wasn’t really. She snuck out all the time. She was this all powerful wizard lady but choose to stay. She coulda just burned it down and left.
All in all this story just didn’t make sense to me. And I didn’t like the ending 🫣
This is a good start for a debut book. It just wasn’t my jam.
A big thing for me is to relate to a book’s characters. And I just couldn’t. So that was the downfall for me.
These are just my honest opinions. I hope the author has much success!
November 3, 2023
Oh man!!! What a book!
Watching aurelia grow not only in power but within herself was *chefs kiss*
"I'm only the monster you made me" 🥰🥰
Now her parents need a right ole kick up the A$$ for locking her away her whole life. And while we are at it so can roland!!!
Thank God for the fire territory men!
Watching aurelia grow not only in power but within herself was *chefs kiss*
"I'm only the monster you made me" 🥰🥰
Now her parents need a right ole kick up the A$$ for locking her away her whole life. And while we are at it so can roland!!!
Thank God for the fire territory men!
November 23, 2022
Ah so good!!! I really loved the dynamic of the characters and how this gives Rapunzel vibes. A must read for anyone who loves ACOTAR. I can’t wait to read the next!
November 15, 2022
I was privileged to be selected as a Beta reader for Courtney’s debut book Sleep and Spirit.
The story High Fantasy and is set in an Alternate Universe with a species called the Virium. They are humanoid “people” who are very like the Fae that we see in the usual High Fantasy romance books we read.
There are different types of Viria which sit within kingdoms which are affiliated with the Elements Water, Fire, Earth, Air and also Spriit. All the of the Kingdoms have long lived species with various powers in line with their kingdoms “theme” , fire magic for the Fire kingdom etc.
Princess Aurelia is the first female royal born in 400 years. Because the Royal houses don’t want to mix their blood with commoners and only marry and breed with other Royal blood lines, Aurelia’s birth is a huge deal. Therefore while she is still a baby, her father negotiates with the other Kings to betroth her to one of the Princes from the other kingdoms.
The story has a Rapunzel retelling feel to it and begins right in the action and I was hooked from the first page. the writing is excellent and the story had me gripped straight away. Once I settled down with some actual free time I read it in 1 day. The potential love interest(s) were haawwwt! there was plenty of sexual tension and some nice story appropriate spice. I have a particular soft spot for one character who really got my blood pumping. 🥵 he was so so so my cup of tea….. might need to go and re read a couple of the chapters actually…. So hot…Sorry… distracted…
I can’t go into too many details on the story because i don’t want to spoil it but I want to applaud Courtney on doing such an amazing job on her first novel, plus it has a gorgeous cover!
I cannot wait for book 2! Brilliant!
The story High Fantasy and is set in an Alternate Universe with a species called the Virium. They are humanoid “people” who are very like the Fae that we see in the usual High Fantasy romance books we read.
There are different types of Viria which sit within kingdoms which are affiliated with the Elements Water, Fire, Earth, Air and also Spriit. All the of the Kingdoms have long lived species with various powers in line with their kingdoms “theme” , fire magic for the Fire kingdom etc.
Princess Aurelia is the first female royal born in 400 years. Because the Royal houses don’t want to mix their blood with commoners and only marry and breed with other Royal blood lines, Aurelia’s birth is a huge deal. Therefore while she is still a baby, her father negotiates with the other Kings to betroth her to one of the Princes from the other kingdoms.
The story has a Rapunzel retelling feel to it and begins right in the action and I was hooked from the first page. the writing is excellent and the story had me gripped straight away. Once I settled down with some actual free time I read it in 1 day. The potential love interest(s) were haawwwt! there was plenty of sexual tension and some nice story appropriate spice. I have a particular soft spot for one character who really got my blood pumping. 🥵 he was so so so my cup of tea….. might need to go and re read a couple of the chapters actually…. So hot…Sorry… distracted…
I can’t go into too many details on the story because i don’t want to spoil it but I want to applaud Courtney on doing such an amazing job on her first novel, plus it has a gorgeous cover!
I cannot wait for book 2! Brilliant!
November 22, 2022
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC for Sleep and Spirit! I absolutely loved the story. The world building and magic system was great! It was a well paced book and really sets up the story to be continued for many books to come if the Author decides to!
I can’t wait for the next one to come out whenever it does! I’ll definitely being getting the physical copy of this as well to add to my bookshelf
I can’t wait for the next one to come out whenever it does! I’ll definitely being getting the physical copy of this as well to add to my bookshelf
December 8, 2022
I was given the ARC for this book, and I can’t wait to share my thoughts!
WHOA. Ok, so the first 20-30% is a bit slow. Works building, character backstory, etc. and the whole book isn’t terribly plot heavy. But man, oh man, did it grab hold and not let go. Lots of loose ends so I’m super excited for the series to continue! Kick butt female protagonist. Some rapunzel vibes going on here. Fun magic and court system. Definitely recommend!
WHOA. Ok, so the first 20-30% is a bit slow. Works building, character backstory, etc. and the whole book isn’t terribly plot heavy. But man, oh man, did it grab hold and not let go. Lots of loose ends so I’m super excited for the series to continue! Kick butt female protagonist. Some rapunzel vibes going on here. Fun magic and court system. Definitely recommend!
October 6, 2023
If I could give this book a 0, I would. Everyone recommending this book is a liar and deserves to be put behind bars. Struggling doesn’t even describe how I felt reading this. Now that I am done, I have finally tasted freedom. Don’t read this book. It is a waste of time. I have read better Wattpad books. I honestly deserve some form of compensation for reading this. I promise I am not being over dramatic. I just don’t understand how this crap got a 4 star overall rating???
December 4, 2022
Sleep and Spirit is the debut novel by Courtney Thorne. It takes place in a fantasy world where Aurelia, our main character, is the first female royal born in hundreds of years and is a huge bargaining chip for her power hungry father. Blessed with all five elements, Aurelia dreams of freedom and couldn’t care less about marrying one of the princes her father has betrothed her to. This book starts with Aurelia running away from home, touching grass for the first time and continues from there.
This book has Rapunzel and Sleeping Beauty vibes but goes in a direction I wasn’t expecting. I read this entire thing in one sitting because I had to know what was happening. There were so many twists and turns and even when I thought I had everything figured out, I was wrong. For a debut fantasy book, this really checked so many boxes. There were compelling characters, an interesting story, and some beginnings of a romance. This book could have easily been 100 pages longer and I wouldn’t have complained!
I’m so happy I got to read an arc of this and be one of the first people to enjoy this story because this has the potential of being a huge hit among the right readers.
This book has Rapunzel and Sleeping Beauty vibes but goes in a direction I wasn’t expecting. I read this entire thing in one sitting because I had to know what was happening. There were so many twists and turns and even when I thought I had everything figured out, I was wrong. For a debut fantasy book, this really checked so many boxes. There were compelling characters, an interesting story, and some beginnings of a romance. This book could have easily been 100 pages longer and I wouldn’t have complained!
I’m so happy I got to read an arc of this and be one of the first people to enjoy this story because this has the potential of being a huge hit among the right readers.
November 22, 2022
I was given the opportunity to be an ARC reader for Courtney’s debut novel, Sleep and Spirit, and I’m extremely thankful to have received a copy of it!
As a dark fantasy meets fairytale novel, this book was an absolutely wonderful experience and I had such an amazing time reading it!
It’s fun and action-packed, yet dark at the same time! I love the characters, even the ones we’re not meant to like- because of how well the writing translated with me.
This book ends in such a way that left me desperate to know what will happen next, even though I kreadethis books isn’t even out yet and it’ll probably be some time before I can find out.
There are content warnings for this book, and they are included in the front, so do go and have a look at those.
Sleep and Spirit comes out on December 5, 2022! Pre-order now!
Thank you again, Courtney, for sending me a copy of your book! I loved it so much, and I cannot wait to see where you go next!
As a dark fantasy meets fairytale novel, this book was an absolutely wonderful experience and I had such an amazing time reading it!
It’s fun and action-packed, yet dark at the same time! I love the characters, even the ones we’re not meant to like- because of how well the writing translated with me.
This book ends in such a way that left me desperate to know what will happen next, even though I kreadethis books isn’t even out yet and it’ll probably be some time before I can find out.
There are content warnings for this book, and they are included in the front, so do go and have a look at those.
Sleep and Spirit comes out on December 5, 2022! Pre-order now!
Thank you again, Courtney, for sending me a copy of your book! I loved it so much, and I cannot wait to see where you go next!
December 7, 2022
This book was so good! It was a little slow to start, but the second half of the book had me all in. Here's two very important thoughts: One, fire daddy has ALL my attention. Two, you take that power and use it right, Aurelia. I could read about this woman burning the world after that ending.
April 10, 2023
I adore this book! I was gripped from the first chapter. The world building is creative and unique, a huge plus from me. The story is very much driven from Aurelia POV. I loved the chapters of her dreams. This story is emotional and dark. She has had enough of the hurt and abuse and fights for herself. This is not your fairy tale princess story. This is something much darker, and I loved every chapter of it. I'm excited for the 2nd book.
January 9, 2024
Elle m’a SAOULÉE ptn, c une vraie grognasse
November 26, 2022
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed my time reading this book and felt that the story could have been twice the length because I definitely wanted to keep reading! I am intrigued by the characters, although aside from the FMC, we don’t really know much about any other characters. I would enjoy exploring the side characters in more depth in the next books of this series! I really like where it’s going and the last 30% of this book was actually pretty unexpected, which I was pleasantly surprised by!
Great first novel- only note would be that I wanted even more of everything (more action, more depth, more romance) but what a great, promising start to this series!
I really enjoyed my time reading this book and felt that the story could have been twice the length because I definitely wanted to keep reading! I am intrigued by the characters, although aside from the FMC, we don’t really know much about any other characters. I would enjoy exploring the side characters in more depth in the next books of this series! I really like where it’s going and the last 30% of this book was actually pretty unexpected, which I was pleasantly surprised by!
Great first novel- only note would be that I wanted even more of everything (more action, more depth, more romance) but what a great, promising start to this series!
December 6, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Slow Burn 🔥/0 🌶
This book was described as a dark Sleeping Beauty retelling and, while I can see a touch of that, it really read more like a Rapunzel retelling to me.
The concept and world building were so unique and well thought out. I loved the typical four elemental gifts, plus a fifth spirit element.
I feel like this book had a ton of potential to be great with more plot development and editing. I normally would not even mention editing for a debut author because I believe in giving grace, especially for an indie author. However, there were just so many grammatical errors that became confusing in some instances, as well a few plot holes that were frustrating as a reader. I found it difficult to keep up with the mood swings of the FMC and found her character arc to be a bit forced. I did really enjoy the dreaming chapters, but I wish we could have gotten a better glimpse at what they'll mean, though, I'm sure it'll come in the next book. It does end on a cliff hanger!
Overall, with a few changes, I think this book would be phenomenal. It's unique and interesting, with just enough romance to keep my attention. I hope we get to see more growth from the author with the next books because she clearly has a wonderful ability for storytelling.
Slow Burn 🔥/0 🌶
This book was described as a dark Sleeping Beauty retelling and, while I can see a touch of that, it really read more like a Rapunzel retelling to me.
The concept and world building were so unique and well thought out. I loved the typical four elemental gifts, plus a fifth spirit element.
I feel like this book had a ton of potential to be great with more plot development and editing. I normally would not even mention editing for a debut author because I believe in giving grace, especially for an indie author. However, there were just so many grammatical errors that became confusing in some instances, as well a few plot holes that were frustrating as a reader. I found it difficult to keep up with the mood swings of the FMC and found her character arc to be a bit forced. I did really enjoy the dreaming chapters, but I wish we could have gotten a better glimpse at what they'll mean, though, I'm sure it'll come in the next book. It does end on a cliff hanger!
Overall, with a few changes, I think this book would be phenomenal. It's unique and interesting, with just enough romance to keep my attention. I hope we get to see more growth from the author with the next books because she clearly has a wonderful ability for storytelling.
January 15, 2023
I got this book as an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review so here it goes. The beginning of the book is a bit confusing and you can tell the author didn’t really quite have her writing style honed exactly. The 1st dream chapters had me extremely confused until I got to the second one and then it made far more sense. The start of the book is interesting but a bit slow. However the further into the book I got the more swallowed into it I became. The author really does find her writing style through the process and has an excellent understanding of how to keep the reader engaged. I love that I had no idea what was going to happen next throughout the book and when it ended I immediately was bummed as I couldn’t continue the journey to find out what happens next! I absolutely can not wait for book 2 of this series. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, especially the second half. So good, definitely recommend!!
February 15, 2023
Oh. My. GOD.
1) the world building is actually quite brilliant using a common theme as a base. I was able to grasp things fairly quickly while also maintaining that “wait whaaaaaat?” feeling throughout!
2) Can. I. Just. Say. I LOVE AURELIA. We do love a damsel in distress, quickly followed by I’ll slay this dragon myself (no, sadly no actual dragons). She’s a badass, albeit a sheltered badass. On occasion, I found her to be a little tantrum-y? But, I understood the emotions behind her actions too, sooo rage on her. Rage on.
3) There were a few grammatical errors here and there but definitely not distracting. I think the only thing that really confused me was the chapter headings? The scene labels (castle, cave, etc) were great, I just couldn’t figure out the rest of it.
Overall, I legit cannot WAIT for the next one to come out! It’s new with a touch of old. Old being the Princess stories we grew up with. However, I genuinely cannot thank the author enough for allowed me to be an arc reader for this amazing book! I hope you all enjoy it as much as I did! ♥️
1) the world building is actually quite brilliant using a common theme as a base. I was able to grasp things fairly quickly while also maintaining that “wait whaaaaaat?” feeling throughout!
2) Can. I. Just. Say. I LOVE AURELIA. We do love a damsel in distress, quickly followed by I’ll slay this dragon myself (no, sadly no actual dragons). She’s a badass, albeit a sheltered badass. On occasion, I found her to be a little tantrum-y? But, I understood the emotions behind her actions too, sooo rage on her. Rage on.
3) There were a few grammatical errors here and there but definitely not distracting. I think the only thing that really confused me was the chapter headings? The scene labels (castle, cave, etc) were great, I just couldn’t figure out the rest of it.
Overall, I legit cannot WAIT for the next one to come out! It’s new with a touch of old. Old being the Princess stories we grew up with. However, I genuinely cannot thank the author enough for allowed me to be an arc reader for this amazing book! I hope you all enjoy it as much as I did! ♥️
February 21, 2023
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC reading of this book. It starts out a little slow but a few chapters in had me flying through it I finished it in one night. Easy light read and the world building is not hard to understand. The story has a a bit of a rapunzel vibe with a modern twist. The realms of this fantasy world are based off of the elements which align with the powers associated with those who dwell there. I do feel heavy political undertrained referenced throughout this book and a nod to feminist movement and main character. This book could have been double in size and I would have been happy with more! I will be eagerly waiting for the next book to see where the main characters choices lead her in this story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 27, 2023
I was given the opportunity to read Courtney's debut novel as and ARC reader and I need more!!
Sleep and Spirit is about Aurelia the only female born to a royal family in 400 years. Locked away until her 21st birthday and wielding powers from all five element kingdoms, we get to go on her journey of discovering the full potential of each element.
I don't want to give anything away because I cannot recommend this book enough and think everyone who enjoys a well crafted fantasy world with a little spice sprinkled in should definitely read it!
I can't wait for the release and for the next book in the series!
Sleep and Spirit is about Aurelia the only female born to a royal family in 400 years. Locked away until her 21st birthday and wielding powers from all five element kingdoms, we get to go on her journey of discovering the full potential of each element.
I don't want to give anything away because I cannot recommend this book enough and think everyone who enjoys a well crafted fantasy world with a little spice sprinkled in should definitely read it!
I can't wait for the release and for the next book in the series!
June 10, 2023
dnf at 63% (right after zephyr’s sudden character switch up and aurelia thinking she did something attacking the air kingdom’s “modest culture” iykyk)
not the indirect xenophobia
didn’t realise we were still living with uneducated ppl believing these stereotypes but newsflash, modesty IS my choice, we aren’t oppressed 🫶🏼
not the indirect xenophobia
didn’t realise we were still living with uneducated ppl believing these stereotypes but newsflash, modesty IS my choice, we aren’t oppressed 🫶🏼
November 24, 2022
Omg, this was so good! I don’t leave reviews with story lines. I love to go into books blind. I promise, this won’t disappoint.
The beginning had an amazing world build. The ending has me in a choke hold. I can not wait for book 2! My only complaint is I wish it was 3x longer 😂
The beginning had an amazing world build. The ending has me in a choke hold. I can not wait for book 2! My only complaint is I wish it was 3x longer 😂
January 10, 2023
I received an eARC and this is my honest opinion.
This is a debut novel, and first of all, I have to congratulate on such an accomplishment of publishing a book and venturing into the world of authors 👏
The concept of kingdoms based on the 4 elements is not something that we haven't seen before, but the fifth kingdom, the kingdom of Spirit is a refreshment as an idea. The writing is YA with a leaning towards the New adult.
Our FMC is gifted with all of the powers, that are yet to be mastered, but her father is putting a silencer on them and keeping her away from the world.
The prologue is quite interesting and gets you invested in reading further. From there it starts with some action and you are tossed right into the world. The writing is nice and smooth and you quickly catch up.
The first half of the book felt a bit stretched and too convenient in some cases. . We do get to see about her powers and how she is finally managing them. Then we get switched to the other half of the book with a different tone and with a much faster pace. We get to learn more about the world and the other kingdoms but since there are 4 more kingdoms, this part did feel a bit rushed, compared to the first part of the book.
The love interest was also a bit rushed and I wouldn't call it insta-love, it was insta-lust and a need to be free and to find someone who wanted you.
As for the characters, we only see a character arc for Aurelia as a MC, while all the others are only brushed and with not much depth.
Overall the story is nice and this could develop into a great series. In some parts, the logic of the story was a bit wobbly, but it is a good start nevertheless. This world has such potential to grow into a great world of intertwined magic and politic.
This is a debut novel, and first of all, I have to congratulate on such an accomplishment of publishing a book and venturing into the world of authors 👏
The concept of kingdoms based on the 4 elements is not something that we haven't seen before, but the fifth kingdom, the kingdom of Spirit is a refreshment as an idea. The writing is YA with a leaning towards the New adult.
Our FMC is gifted with all of the powers, that are yet to be mastered, but her father is putting a silencer on them and keeping her away from the world.
The prologue is quite interesting and gets you invested in reading further. From there it starts with some action and you are tossed right into the world. The writing is nice and smooth and you quickly catch up.
The first half of the book felt a bit stretched and too convenient in some cases. . We do get to see about her powers and how she is finally managing them. Then we get switched to the other half of the book with a different tone and with a much faster pace. We get to learn more about the world and the other kingdoms but since there are 4 more kingdoms, this part did feel a bit rushed, compared to the first part of the book.
The love interest was also a bit rushed and I wouldn't call it insta-love, it was insta-lust and a need to be free and to find someone who wanted you.
As for the characters, we only see a character arc for Aurelia as a MC, while all the others are only brushed and with not much depth.
Overall the story is nice and this could develop into a great series. In some parts, the logic of the story was a bit wobbly, but it is a good start nevertheless. This world has such potential to grow into a great world of intertwined magic and politic.
November 29, 2022
Full disclosure, I received this as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I’m so glad I signed up for this ARC. Not only is Sleeping Beauty one of my all-time favourites for a retelling, but this book also had hints of Rapunzel just to add to the fairy tales.
As for the end… no spoilers, but it left me with sooooo many quotations in the best way.
What I liked…
Love interests… Definitely curious about them and if they’re genuine or playing Aurelia. Who knows with fantasy these days, and that’s half the fun.
I also loved how different the love interests were and how they brought different things out of Aurelia.
Self-realisation… OMG yes. I love seeing characters realise that what they thought was for their own protection was basically a prison. Obviously, a good prison break is required.
Aurelia’s inner conflict felt spot on when it came to wanting revenge for those who hurt her and the people she cared about.
I liked how emboldened she became after her initial escape (right at the beginning so not a spoiler) and how she wanted to try new things now she had a better idea of the world.
There were a lot of funny moments to with Aurelia’s scheming and inner thoughts. Definitely got a few giggles from me.
What I didn’t like…
The dreams were supposedly dreams, but Aurelia’s thoughts made them too obvious from my liking. Of course readers will think they’re real, but Aurelia kept referring to them as if they were real far too often.
Final thoughts…
Definitely a great read if you love overly protected princesses fighting for their freedom and her own choices. Especially with the very charming and sexy men she meets.
I’m so glad I signed up for this ARC. Not only is Sleeping Beauty one of my all-time favourites for a retelling, but this book also had hints of Rapunzel just to add to the fairy tales.
As for the end… no spoilers, but it left me with sooooo many quotations in the best way.
What I liked…
Love interests… Definitely curious about them and if they’re genuine or playing Aurelia. Who knows with fantasy these days, and that’s half the fun.
I also loved how different the love interests were and how they brought different things out of Aurelia.
Self-realisation… OMG yes. I love seeing characters realise that what they thought was for their own protection was basically a prison. Obviously, a good prison break is required.
Aurelia’s inner conflict felt spot on when it came to wanting revenge for those who hurt her and the people she cared about.
I liked how emboldened she became after her initial escape (right at the beginning so not a spoiler) and how she wanted to try new things now she had a better idea of the world.
There were a lot of funny moments to with Aurelia’s scheming and inner thoughts. Definitely got a few giggles from me.
What I didn’t like…
The dreams were supposedly dreams, but Aurelia’s thoughts made them too obvious from my liking. Of course readers will think they’re real, but Aurelia kept referring to them as if they were real far too often.
Final thoughts…
Definitely a great read if you love overly protected princesses fighting for their freedom and her own choices. Especially with the very charming and sexy men she meets.
November 29, 2022
Check TW before reading
Let me just start off by saying that Cerise was a better mother to Aurelia than her own mother was. She took the time to try to teach Aurelia how to control/use her powers. And I especially loved how we were able to see how powerful she truly was whenever she was truly angry or going into panic mode. Her character development was just amazing. She went from being docile to forging her own path and owning it.
I enjoyed the world building, and loved how we got a glimpse of each kingdom and learned a little bit of their traditions. I thought it was really creative how the author described what the style of dress was according to each kingdoms customs.
Don’t get me started on Alev, because my heart is torn in two. His and Aurelia’s interactions were 🥵 even if they were just kissing. The sexual tension though… that was through the roof. I truly enjoyed her conversations with Nereus. I could honestly see them being good friends, and I feel like they each helped each other out.
I loved how Aurelia enjoyed reading romance books, especially the spicier ones, I was like “Girl me too!”
Overall I truly enjoyed reading this book and can’t wait to read the next one because that ending has left me with so many questions…
Thank you for providing me an ARC copy of your book in exchange for my honest opinion!
Let me just start off by saying that Cerise was a better mother to Aurelia than her own mother was. She took the time to try to teach Aurelia how to control/use her powers. And I especially loved how we were able to see how powerful she truly was whenever she was truly angry or going into panic mode. Her character development was just amazing. She went from being docile to forging her own path and owning it.
I enjoyed the world building, and loved how we got a glimpse of each kingdom and learned a little bit of their traditions. I thought it was really creative how the author described what the style of dress was according to each kingdoms customs.
Don’t get me started on Alev, because my heart is torn in two. His and Aurelia’s interactions were 🥵 even if they were just kissing. The sexual tension though… that was through the roof. I truly enjoyed her conversations with Nereus. I could honestly see them being good friends, and I feel like they each helped each other out.
I loved how Aurelia enjoyed reading romance books, especially the spicier ones, I was like “Girl me too!”
Overall I truly enjoyed reading this book and can’t wait to read the next one because that ending has left me with so many questions…
Thank you for providing me an ARC copy of your book in exchange for my honest opinion!
December 4, 2022
ARC Review
Wow I am so glad I got to read this book, I didnt know what to expect when signing up for this ARC but I love a bit of fantasy and this was a great book to explore magic and the elements.
Aurelia is the only royal female in the whole realm which makes her perfect for the princes of the realms.
She has a hard time trying to grasp that she will be married off to one of the princes which leads to alot of conflict between her and her father.
While trying to navigate this big decision she has also met someone in the dream world whether this is a real person or a figment of her imagination she doesn't know but she wants to find out.
The character development in this story was great I love watching timid characters find themselves and become their own person.
I feel as if some of the comments that are made by the characters make this more than a YA book but there is no spice at all in this one. I can see where the relationships could develop into more and I'm here for it if they do. If not I think it has so much of a plot line that it will be a great series without that involved aswell.
I can not wait to read the next in the series to see what happens. I'm addicted. ❤️❤️
Wow I am so glad I got to read this book, I didnt know what to expect when signing up for this ARC but I love a bit of fantasy and this was a great book to explore magic and the elements.
Aurelia is the only royal female in the whole realm which makes her perfect for the princes of the realms.
She has a hard time trying to grasp that she will be married off to one of the princes which leads to alot of conflict between her and her father.
While trying to navigate this big decision she has also met someone in the dream world whether this is a real person or a figment of her imagination she doesn't know but she wants to find out.
The character development in this story was great I love watching timid characters find themselves and become their own person.
I feel as if some of the comments that are made by the characters make this more than a YA book but there is no spice at all in this one. I can see where the relationships could develop into more and I'm here for it if they do. If not I think it has so much of a plot line that it will be a great series without that involved aswell.
I can not wait to read the next in the series to see what happens. I'm addicted. ❤️❤️
November 28, 2022
4 stars, 0.5 spice
This book managed to completely hooked me with the elemental magic. It was so unique and I just want to see more.
Sleep and Spirit definitely feels like the first book in a trilogy (which it is) - we end in an okay spot with open ending, but hope for an exciting future, we get a peak at other kingdoms through discussion so we are left wanting to see more. The story really felt like an introduction to the magic system and to our FMC, with minimal plot progression. So don’t go in expecting to go on grand fantasy adventures, this story is about discovering one’s strength and independence, and is really a stepping stone for the rest of the series.
I found the writing to be really consumable, I could not put the book down.
I am dying to know which character she will end up with and what their connection is to one another. I am really excited about seeing some of these other kingdoms and I can see how this story will lead to an explosive war in later books.
I will definitely be picking up the next one!
Thank you to the author for sending me a digital ARC!
This book managed to completely hooked me with the elemental magic. It was so unique and I just want to see more.
Sleep and Spirit definitely feels like the first book in a trilogy (which it is) - we end in an okay spot with open ending, but hope for an exciting future, we get a peak at other kingdoms through discussion so we are left wanting to see more. The story really felt like an introduction to the magic system and to our FMC, with minimal plot progression. So don’t go in expecting to go on grand fantasy adventures, this story is about discovering one’s strength and independence, and is really a stepping stone for the rest of the series.
I found the writing to be really consumable, I could not put the book down.
I am dying to know which character she will end up with and what their connection is to one another. I am really excited about seeing some of these other kingdoms and I can see how this story will lead to an explosive war in later books.
I will definitely be picking up the next one!
Thank you to the author for sending me a digital ARC!
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