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Oak King Holly King #2
Tales from Blackthorn Briar
Shrike, the fae Butcher of Blackthorn, and Wren Lofthouse, a mortal Victorian clerk, are bound together by love and fate. Their continued adventures (and those of their friends) are told in this collection of fantastical tales following the story of Oak King Holly King, including...
Mabon
Wherein Shrike and Wren repay their debt to the Court of Hidden Folk.
Mr Grigsby's Clerk
Wherein Mr Grigsby finds a replacement for Wren - and perhaps more than he bargained for.
Jack in the Green
Wherein a certain Horse Guard wanders into Blackthorn Briar.
Winter Solstice
Wherein the Holly King surrenders to the Oak King.
The Holly King's Peril
Wherein Wren and Shrike discover danger in the wilds of the Fae Realms.
The Ballad of Daniel Durst
Wherein Daniel embarks on his authentic life in a bold new land.
Mabon
Wherein Shrike and Wren repay their debt to the Court of Hidden Folk.
Mr Grigsby's Clerk
Wherein Mr Grigsby finds a replacement for Wren - and perhaps more than he bargained for.
Jack in the Green
Wherein a certain Horse Guard wanders into Blackthorn Briar.
Winter Solstice
Wherein the Holly King surrenders to the Oak King.
The Holly King's Peril
Wherein Wren and Shrike discover danger in the wilds of the Fae Realms.
The Ballad of Daniel Durst
Wherein Daniel embarks on his authentic life in a bold new land.
262 pages, Paperback
First published September 21, 2022
27 people are currently reading
382 people want to read
About the author
Sebastian Nothwell
8 books355 followersSebastian Nothwell writes queer romance. When he is not writing, he is counting down the minutes until he is permitted to return to writing. He is absolutely not a ghost and definitely did not die in 1895.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
September 23, 2022
*I received an ecopy of this book from the author. This has not influenced my review.*
Oh, this was delightful! I was so happy to learn there was more about Wren and Shrike and their world, and this collection of short stories did not disappoint.
“Mabon” – The first story was about an orgy, so that was fun! Especially since the three fae Wren and Shrike had sex with were beautiful and interesting-looking with horns and tails and hooves and other super unique bits. One of them had this really unique thing going on with his back, but I won’t spoil the fun of reading about it yourself. I also liked seeing characters in a committed relationship consensually deciding to bring in some other people (not even just in this story, but another as well). Not that I think every couple needs to, it’s just not something you see often, and it made for some fun and sexy dynamics. It also makes sense when you consider how the fae in this world have different views on sex and relationships, and it’s rubbing off on Wren (pun intended).
“Mr. Grigsby’s Clerk” – The second story was about Grigsby and one of the fae from the first, and I loved the fae’s POV. Just, the difference between how I was viewing things and how the fae was viewing them was so fun. I also loved that it was about an older person (not sure how old Grigsby is, but old enough to be described as elderly) finding romance or casual intimacy or whatever their relationship ends up being. I’ve never read such a lovely description of an aging body before. I genuinely loved everything about this.
“Jack in the Green” – The third story was about a character who briefly appeared in the main book. It was another story about Wren and Shrike having sex with other people (well, just one other person this time). It was also fun seeing it from the other character’s POV because what a wild experience that would be, to stumble into some strange woods and have amazing sex with two beautiful men in a strange cabin where things are not quite what they seem.
“Winter Solstice” – The fourth story was another enjoyable sexy one.
“The Holly King’s Peril” – The fifth story was less fun and sexy, but no less wonderful. Also still a little bit sexy. It was full of hurt/comfort and sweetness and the touching relationship that Wren and Shrike have.
“The Ballad of Daniel Durst” – The last story was about Daniel. You get to learn a bit more about what his life was like before he ran away, how his relationship with Suki started, and how nice his life and relationship are now.
There was some lovely casual inclusivity and acceptance in these stories. Trans people, older people, unique fae bodies, mlm, wlw (side characters).
There was a lot of sex in this book, but it always managed to be sexy and interesting and not feel repetitive. I sometimes zone out during sex scenes in books because they feel like the same thing I’ve read many times, but not these. Plus, I cared about these characters and could feel how much they cared about each other, and that makes a big difference for me.
The ending of Oak King Holly King was a touch abrupt, and this smoothed that out. There were things that could be pretty safely assumed, but this made them definite. It was nice to know for sure how things are going and what the future looks like for Wren and Shrike. I’ll gladly read more if this continues as a series, but this was satisfying if it was the end.
Truly just a lovely book with lovely characters and lovely stories! If you enjoyed Oak King Holly King, I definitely recommend reading this collection.
*Rating: 4.5 Stars // Read Date: 2022 // Format: Ebook via TTS*
Recommended For:
Fans of Oak King Holly King by Sebastian Nothwell who enjoy sweet and steamy stories and want more time with the lovely characters.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
Oh, this was delightful! I was so happy to learn there was more about Wren and Shrike and their world, and this collection of short stories did not disappoint.
“Mabon” – The first story was about an orgy, so that was fun! Especially since the three fae Wren and Shrike had sex with were beautiful and interesting-looking with horns and tails and hooves and other super unique bits. One of them had this really unique thing going on with his back, but I won’t spoil the fun of reading about it yourself. I also liked seeing characters in a committed relationship consensually deciding to bring in some other people (not even just in this story, but another as well). Not that I think every couple needs to, it’s just not something you see often, and it made for some fun and sexy dynamics. It also makes sense when you consider how the fae in this world have different views on sex and relationships, and it’s rubbing off on Wren (pun intended).
“Mr. Grigsby’s Clerk” – The second story was about Grigsby and one of the fae from the first, and I loved the fae’s POV. Just, the difference between how I was viewing things and how the fae was viewing them was so fun. I also loved that it was about an older person (not sure how old Grigsby is, but old enough to be described as elderly) finding romance or casual intimacy or whatever their relationship ends up being. I’ve never read such a lovely description of an aging body before. I genuinely loved everything about this.
“Jack in the Green” – The third story was about a character who briefly appeared in the main book. It was another story about Wren and Shrike having sex with other people (well, just one other person this time). It was also fun seeing it from the other character’s POV because what a wild experience that would be, to stumble into some strange woods and have amazing sex with two beautiful men in a strange cabin where things are not quite what they seem.
“Winter Solstice” – The fourth story was another enjoyable sexy one.
“The Holly King’s Peril” – The fifth story was less fun and sexy, but no less wonderful. Also still a little bit sexy. It was full of hurt/comfort and sweetness and the touching relationship that Wren and Shrike have.
“The Ballad of Daniel Durst” – The last story was about Daniel. You get to learn a bit more about what his life was like before he ran away, how his relationship with Suki started, and how nice his life and relationship are now.
There was some lovely casual inclusivity and acceptance in these stories. Trans people, older people, unique fae bodies, mlm, wlw (side characters).
There was a lot of sex in this book, but it always managed to be sexy and interesting and not feel repetitive. I sometimes zone out during sex scenes in books because they feel like the same thing I’ve read many times, but not these. Plus, I cared about these characters and could feel how much they cared about each other, and that makes a big difference for me.
The ending of Oak King Holly King was a touch abrupt, and this smoothed that out. There were things that could be pretty safely assumed, but this made them definite. It was nice to know for sure how things are going and what the future looks like for Wren and Shrike. I’ll gladly read more if this continues as a series, but this was satisfying if it was the end.
Truly just a lovely book with lovely characters and lovely stories! If you enjoyed Oak King Holly King, I definitely recommend reading this collection.
*Rating: 4.5 Stars // Read Date: 2022 // Format: Ebook via TTS*
Recommended For:
Fans of Oak King Holly King by Sebastian Nothwell who enjoy sweet and steamy stories and want more time with the lovely characters.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
July 1, 2025
Was this book basically an extended epilogue? Yes. Did I still thoroughly enjoy it? YES
October 18, 2022
A Joyfully Jay review.
5 stars
Tales from Blackthorn Briar contains a series of stories set after the events of Oak King Holly King and you should start with that novel first or you’ll lose a lot of critical character development and backstory. Sufficed to say, this collection often leans towards the erotic and it seems that Wren is making up for lost time in stories like Mabon and Jack in the Green. Old friends are visited in Mr. Grigsby’s Clerk and The Ballad of Daniel Durst. And Wren ends up on the brink of losing everything in the Holly King’s Peril. But regardless of whether they involve light-hearted sexual romps or more serious situations, the common thread of acceptance and love as a beautiful, joyful experience runs through each piece. This is something that author Sebastian Nothwell excels at depicting and it’s one of the reasons the author is one of few that I consider to be an auto-buy whenever a new release is available.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
5 stars
Tales from Blackthorn Briar contains a series of stories set after the events of Oak King Holly King and you should start with that novel first or you’ll lose a lot of critical character development and backstory. Sufficed to say, this collection often leans towards the erotic and it seems that Wren is making up for lost time in stories like Mabon and Jack in the Green. Old friends are visited in Mr. Grigsby’s Clerk and The Ballad of Daniel Durst. And Wren ends up on the brink of losing everything in the Holly King’s Peril. But regardless of whether they involve light-hearted sexual romps or more serious situations, the common thread of acceptance and love as a beautiful, joyful experience runs through each piece. This is something that author Sebastian Nothwell excels at depicting and it’s one of the reasons the author is one of few that I consider to be an auto-buy whenever a new release is available.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
October 8, 2022
Four shorts and a novella-length story that tie off some loose ends from Oak King Holly King and further develop Wren and Shrike’s relationship. Nothwell really loves hurt/comfort and caretaking after injury (I don’t blame him, I do too!) because the longest story is Wren getting hurt and Shrike looking after him. The circumstances help both characters better see their value to each other and deepens their connection into something that feels even more lasting than where they were at the end of Oak King Holly King.
My favorite short was the one about Daniel, and how he’s made a life for himself where he’s seen as he is, instead of how he was born. The flashbacks to the beginnings of his relationship with Sukie are very sweet and effectively establish their pairing in relatively few pages. And I loved how the process of being painted by Wren helped Daniel affirm his identity.
I also loved seeing Mr. Grigsby get the happy ending he deserved!
This was a great addition to Oak King Holly King, and anyone who enjoyed that book should read this one, too.
My favorite short was the one about Daniel, and how he’s made a life for himself where he’s seen as he is, instead of how he was born. The flashbacks to the beginnings of his relationship with Sukie are very sweet and effectively establish their pairing in relatively few pages. And I loved how the process of being painted by Wren helped Daniel affirm his identity.
I also loved seeing Mr. Grigsby get the happy ending he deserved!
This was a great addition to Oak King Holly King, and anyone who enjoyed that book should read this one, too.
January 10, 2023
Arghhh. Based on the first two books I've read by this author, I was prepared to love this book . . . only not. Crud. A very, very disappointing two stars, with one star alone just for the cover art.
I loved Oak King Holly King. Much of what I loved about that book was simply non-existent in this book. (Disclaimer - I haven't actually finished "Tales . . . "; I gave up when I got partway through the last chapter). While Oak King Holly King was full of humor, love, heart, wit, passion and sweetness, this book is . . . full of sex, mostly of the meaningless variety. On my Goldilocks scale of how much sex is too much, too meaningless/too little, why can't there be MORE?/just right thank you very much, this book lands firmly in the camp of too much/too meaningless.
While I realize that much of the sex is in the vein of Wren Getting His Groove On, it's exactly that kind of sex that I find really, well, annoying and pointless. I get that the Fae of this author's viewpoint are a sexually free-spirited people who don't really deal in jealousy or monogamy, and we are seeing Wren dipping his toes (as well as other parts) into the waters of Free Love with Shrike's full acceptance and participation. It still doesn't sit well with me when there is random sex of the recreational variety that involves two characters I love and who have been through several levels of hell to get where they are at.
The first story, "Mabon", was a complete bust for me. We not only had multiple partners engaging in recreational sex, we had instances where those multiple partners (5 in total) were all engaging together, at once. Well, yuck. What I did get out of that story were a couple of new secondary characters of interest (this author is superb at creating fully fleshed and compelling secondary characters). Additionally, these characters appear again in the other stories in the book. Very nicely done, that.
In the second story, "Mr. Grigsby's Clerk", we had what could have been a LOVELY story involving my dear favorite Mr. Grigsby, but the author had to go the fully physical route. This was so disappointing, because there was a real opportunity there for a story that didn't include sex but was no less fulfilling for being full of love and tenderness. Plus I squick out at large age gaps. As a person who, in my mind, is of an age along with Mr. Grigsby, I had a viscerally "NO, don't DO that!" reaction to the sexual aspect. I've actually had close family members engaged in similar scenarios and it just feels so wrong. For me, it would have been brilliant if this story had more of a demisexual take to it.
In the next story, "Jack in the Green", we have a returning character from the mortal realm, who ends up having - well, yes, multiple partner sex involving our two MC's. Sigh. This one didn't ick me out as much because the 3rd party involved was really quite engaging, but it still struck me as simply extraneous and thus "meh/why bother?" to read.
The fourth story, "Winter Solstice" is a flip side of, yes, the sex that takes place at the end of the Oak King Holly King. In Oak King Holly King this particular encounter has enormous implications for the MC's and was a definite part of the plot. In this story, the sex is still meaningful (and has no extraneous participants, thankfully), but is written in a way that feels of no great consequence.
The fifth story, "The Holly King's Peril", actually has very little sex (a veritable break in the clouds!) but was still very dissatisfying for other reasons. In Oak King Holly King, Wren's character is so beautifully portrayed as having unexpected strength, mentally, physically and emotionally. This story takes all that strength and throws it out, as Wren comes across as just plain whiny and annoying. He spends so much time making up rationales in his own head for why he surely comes across as weak and thus unappealing to his partner (because being savaged by an enormous beast and having to heal from a ginormous wound would certainly lead one to worry about nothing else except whether they are still attractive to their life partner, right?) that for me, he fulfills his fears. I simply have a hard time taking two Star Crossed Lovers Who Went Through Hell to Be Together and somehow morphing one of them into a suddenly insecure, self-absorbed, and pretty clueless fool who for some reason is now fretting about if he appears "masculine" enough (WTF?) Wren should really be portrayed as having his shit together way more than in this story. It's kind of insulting that he expects Shrike to be so superficial after all they've been through together; seriously dude?
Much of my discontent is just that - mine. This book just went places sexually that felt unnecessary for me and there wasn't much actual story in any of the stories. I couldn't even get motivated enough to read the entire last chapter, so I was DNF about 90% through.
If you love the sex with strangers aspect, you will definitely enjoy this. Just not my cuppa.
Good takeaways for me are:
Interesting new secondary characters I'd like to see more of (beyond just sexually)
A lot more of the wulpertinger, which is one of most fabulous creations I've ever read about (there needs to be a wulpertinger emoji!!)
A revelation from a mortal secondary character in the fifth story ("The Holly King's Peril") that has me thinking that typical human mortality/aging kind of goes out the window when in the Fae realm and so hopefully our two MC's will have a very, very long time together; far longer than a typical human lifespan.
A cover that makes me go "gahhhhh" and had me expecting more of substance between our two MC's - in fact, I have a really hard time reconciling the depiction of Wren in the cover art with the highly annoying portrayal in the story "The Holly King's Peril", one that seemed to diminish his character both physically and mentally.
Don't get me wrong - I really do love this author and will definitely read more of their back catalog; this book was just an unexpected "miss" for me.
I loved Oak King Holly King. Much of what I loved about that book was simply non-existent in this book. (Disclaimer - I haven't actually finished "Tales . . . "; I gave up when I got partway through the last chapter). While Oak King Holly King was full of humor, love, heart, wit, passion and sweetness, this book is . . . full of sex, mostly of the meaningless variety. On my Goldilocks scale of how much sex is too much, too meaningless/too little, why can't there be MORE?/just right thank you very much, this book lands firmly in the camp of too much/too meaningless.
While I realize that much of the sex is in the vein of Wren Getting His Groove On, it's exactly that kind of sex that I find really, well, annoying and pointless. I get that the Fae of this author's viewpoint are a sexually free-spirited people who don't really deal in jealousy or monogamy, and we are seeing Wren dipping his toes (as well as other parts) into the waters of Free Love with Shrike's full acceptance and participation. It still doesn't sit well with me when there is random sex of the recreational variety that involves two characters I love and who have been through several levels of hell to get where they are at.
The first story, "Mabon", was a complete bust for me. We not only had multiple partners engaging in recreational sex, we had instances where those multiple partners (5 in total) were all engaging together, at once. Well, yuck. What I did get out of that story were a couple of new secondary characters of interest (this author is superb at creating fully fleshed and compelling secondary characters). Additionally, these characters appear again in the other stories in the book. Very nicely done, that.
In the second story, "Mr. Grigsby's Clerk", we had what could have been a LOVELY story involving my dear favorite Mr. Grigsby, but the author had to go the fully physical route. This was so disappointing, because there was a real opportunity there for a story that didn't include sex but was no less fulfilling for being full of love and tenderness. Plus I squick out at large age gaps. As a person who, in my mind, is of an age along with Mr. Grigsby, I had a viscerally "NO, don't DO that!" reaction to the sexual aspect. I've actually had close family members engaged in similar scenarios and it just feels so wrong. For me, it would have been brilliant if this story had more of a demisexual take to it.
In the next story, "Jack in the Green", we have a returning character from the mortal realm, who ends up having - well, yes, multiple partner sex involving our two MC's. Sigh. This one didn't ick me out as much because the 3rd party involved was really quite engaging, but it still struck me as simply extraneous and thus "meh/why bother?" to read.
The fourth story, "Winter Solstice" is a flip side of, yes, the sex that takes place at the end of the Oak King Holly King. In Oak King Holly King this particular encounter has enormous implications for the MC's and was a definite part of the plot. In this story, the sex is still meaningful (and has no extraneous participants, thankfully), but is written in a way that feels of no great consequence.
The fifth story, "The Holly King's Peril", actually has very little sex (a veritable break in the clouds!) but was still very dissatisfying for other reasons. In Oak King Holly King, Wren's character is so beautifully portrayed as having unexpected strength, mentally, physically and emotionally. This story takes all that strength and throws it out, as Wren comes across as just plain whiny and annoying. He spends so much time making up rationales in his own head for why he surely comes across as weak and thus unappealing to his partner (because being savaged by an enormous beast and having to heal from a ginormous wound would certainly lead one to worry about nothing else except whether they are still attractive to their life partner, right?) that for me, he fulfills his fears. I simply have a hard time taking two Star Crossed Lovers Who Went Through Hell to Be Together and somehow morphing one of them into a suddenly insecure, self-absorbed, and pretty clueless fool who for some reason is now fretting about if he appears "masculine" enough (WTF?) Wren should really be portrayed as having his shit together way more than in this story. It's kind of insulting that he expects Shrike to be so superficial after all they've been through together; seriously dude?
Much of my discontent is just that - mine. This book just went places sexually that felt unnecessary for me and there wasn't much actual story in any of the stories. I couldn't even get motivated enough to read the entire last chapter, so I was DNF about 90% through.
If you love the sex with strangers aspect, you will definitely enjoy this. Just not my cuppa.
Good takeaways for me are:
Interesting new secondary characters I'd like to see more of (beyond just sexually)
A lot more of the wulpertinger, which is one of most fabulous creations I've ever read about (there needs to be a wulpertinger emoji!!)
A revelation from a mortal secondary character in the fifth story ("The Holly King's Peril") that has me thinking that typical human mortality/aging kind of goes out the window when in the Fae realm and so hopefully our two MC's will have a very, very long time together; far longer than a typical human lifespan.
A cover that makes me go "gahhhhh" and had me expecting more of substance between our two MC's - in fact, I have a really hard time reconciling the depiction of Wren in the cover art with the highly annoying portrayal in the story "The Holly King's Peril", one that seemed to diminish his character both physically and mentally.
Don't get me wrong - I really do love this author and will definitely read more of their back catalog; this book was just an unexpected "miss" for me.
October 23, 2022
Thank you Sebastian for this little anthology of stories/novellas from the Oak King/Holly King realm. Some spicy 😉 [Mabon, Jack in the Green and Winter Solstice], some featuring old friends [Mr Grigsby's Clerk, and I so loved reading about the ever clueless Mr G and Hullvadr 💜, and The Ballad of Daniel Durst featuring a trans character]; the crowning glory for me however was a much longer length story, The Holly King's Peril. I really do hope that this will not be the last we see of Wren, Shrike and Blackthorn Briar. 5 well-deserved stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 .
n.b. the actual cover of the book is magnificent. Why that isn't showing on Goodreads I have no clue 😕.
n.b. the actual cover of the book is magnificent. Why that isn't showing on Goodreads I have no clue 😕.
May 30, 2025
3.5 stars
Wow. This took me a long while to get through because...life. But I genuinely enjoyed this one more than the first in this series, I think I prefer Sebastian Nothwell's works in a shorter format.
I think out of all the stories, Daniel's was my favourite - though I could definitely tell Mr. Nothwell was not comfortable writing intimate scenes featuring a woman. I felt the absence of a scene for Daniel and Sukie especially because the entire collection was extremely smutty.
My second favourite had to be Mr. Grigsby's short story. Idk what it is, but give me an older person being all like "Oh, you're so young, don't waste your youth on me" and the other being just so fucking devoted.
anyways, this has regained my faith in Sebastian Nothwell's works. I am willing to try another of his, tho not yet willing to add any to my personal collection.
(PS. I am so glad the author branched out from only using the term prick in sex scenes)
Wow. This took me a long while to get through because...life. But I genuinely enjoyed this one more than the first in this series, I think I prefer Sebastian Nothwell's works in a shorter format.
I think out of all the stories, Daniel's was my favourite - though I could definitely tell Mr. Nothwell was not comfortable writing intimate scenes featuring a woman. I felt the absence of a scene for Daniel and Sukie especially because the entire collection was extremely smutty.
My second favourite had to be Mr. Grigsby's short story. Idk what it is, but give me an older person being all like "Oh, you're so young, don't waste your youth on me" and the other being just so fucking devoted.
anyways, this has regained my faith in Sebastian Nothwell's works. I am willing to try another of his, tho not yet willing to add any to my personal collection.
(PS. I am so glad the author branched out from only using the term prick in sex scenes)
October 8, 2022
Después de Oak King Holly King, este libro responde muchas preguntas que todos los que leímos el primer libro queríamos saber.
Cada cuento es una historia de amor que me llenó el corazón. Me encanta la forma en que las escenas íntimas están descritas, son súper tiernas 🙈💜
Hace tiempo que un libro no me deja sonriendo solo porque si 😭💜 voy a seguir leyendo libros del autor.
Cada cuento es una historia de amor que me llenó el corazón. Me encanta la forma en que las escenas íntimas están descritas, son súper tiernas 🙈💜
Hace tiempo que un libro no me deja sonriendo solo porque si 😭💜 voy a seguir leyendo libros del autor.
June 2, 2024
A great little collection of stories taking place after the events of Oak King Holly King.
I loved that we got to delve into the minds and backstories of a lot of the more interesting side characters, especially Daniel as you get an idea from the first one of what’s going on but as a trans reviewer I loved getting the full story of his life.
I loved that we got to delve into the minds and backstories of a lot of the more interesting side characters, especially Daniel as you get an idea from the first one of what’s going on but as a trans reviewer I loved getting the full story of his life.
August 13, 2025
From what I’ve read by Sebastian Nothwell, these short stories worked best for me. It was nice to revisit the world and I particularly enjoyed Mr. Grigsby’s story. There are not many romances with old characters - figures that it is a fae who appreciates his beauty.
July 1, 2024
As a smaller companion/sequel to one of my new favourite books, I was stoked to get my hands on this and keep reading in this world I was so in love with.
Tales from Blackthorn Briar is a collection of short stories that revolve around the characters we met in the first book. Many of them - correction, most of them - revolve around the sexual relations and experiences of our characters. Which is perfectly lovely if that is what you wanted to read. I certainly enjoyed some of them, but also was hoping for a little more substance.
The world is still just as lush and wonderful as the first book. The characters are still just as loveable (literally cheered when Nell appeared, I love Nell.) And the stories are definitely cosy and cute and endearing to read.
My particular favourites were Mr. Grigsby's Clerk, The Holly King's Peril, and The Ballad of Daniel Durst (I also love Daniel and was so happy to revisit his story).
Tales from Blackthorn Briar is a collection of short stories that revolve around the characters we met in the first book. Many of them - correction, most of them - revolve around the sexual relations and experiences of our characters. Which is perfectly lovely if that is what you wanted to read. I certainly enjoyed some of them, but also was hoping for a little more substance.
The world is still just as lush and wonderful as the first book. The characters are still just as loveable (literally cheered when Nell appeared, I love Nell.) And the stories are definitely cosy and cute and endearing to read.
My particular favourites were Mr. Grigsby's Clerk, The Holly King's Peril, and The Ballad of Daniel Durst (I also love Daniel and was so happy to revisit his story).
February 8, 2024
What I thought was going to be a smutty, fluffy wrap-up to Oak King Holly King, ended up making me tear up multiple times because it was so DAMN SWEET.
I love that we circled back to some loose ends, got super sweet stories about the side characters, all while turning up the heat
I love that we circled back to some loose ends, got super sweet stories about the side characters, all while turning up the heat
March 28, 2024
This was okay nothing special
It was kinda boring, and it was mostly smut… but I’m not sure if the books writing style is compatible with smut.
It was kinda boring, and it was mostly smut… but I’m not sure if the books writing style is compatible with smut.
September 19, 2022
*Disclaimer: I was gifted with an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review that will contain some spoilers*
This is such a delightful return to the world of Oak King Holly King that visited some beloved characters old and new into fantastical adventures!
The anthology contains 6 self contained but interwoven stories that are best enjoyed in their intended order:
- Mabon
A magical (and steamy) return to the Court of the Hidden Folk introducing some fabulous new characters that I am glad to say make more appearances in this book…
- Mr Grimsby’s Clerk
For those asking what happened to Wren’s old employer after he walked into the sunset with Shrike, wonder no more - Mr Grimsby is in for the surprise of his life!
- Jack in the Green
A fun and sexy return for Jack accidentally wandering into the Fae Realm and joining our favourite couple for a night…
- Winter Solstice
A sweet and steamy reversal of the Midsummer Ritual (only a whole lot more private…)
- The Holly King’s Peril
This is the longest and my absolutely favourite story of this anthology, full of Fae lore and adventures, the return of not only my absolutely favourite couple but also some amazing new characters as well as some of the best ones from the novel!
- The Ballad of Daniel Durst
This is probably the sweetest and most heartwarming story that reader with a sense of satisfaction that Daniel is finally living the life he’d always dreamed of…
Overall this is an amazing collection of stories from the world of Oak King Holly King that I would definitely recommend reading!
This is such a delightful return to the world of Oak King Holly King that visited some beloved characters old and new into fantastical adventures!
The anthology contains 6 self contained but interwoven stories that are best enjoyed in their intended order:
- Mabon
A magical (and steamy) return to the Court of the Hidden Folk introducing some fabulous new characters that I am glad to say make more appearances in this book…
- Mr Grimsby’s Clerk
For those asking what happened to Wren’s old employer after he walked into the sunset with Shrike, wonder no more - Mr Grimsby is in for the surprise of his life!
- Jack in the Green
A fun and sexy return for Jack accidentally wandering into the Fae Realm and joining our favourite couple for a night…
- Winter Solstice
A sweet and steamy reversal of the Midsummer Ritual (only a whole lot more private…)
- The Holly King’s Peril
This is the longest and my absolutely favourite story of this anthology, full of Fae lore and adventures, the return of not only my absolutely favourite couple but also some amazing new characters as well as some of the best ones from the novel!
- The Ballad of Daniel Durst
This is probably the sweetest and most heartwarming story that reader with a sense of satisfaction that Daniel is finally living the life he’d always dreamed of…
Overall this is an amazing collection of stories from the world of Oak King Holly King that I would definitely recommend reading!
February 26, 2023
The author is an autobuy for me and I did enjoy Oak King Holly King despite a minor quibble on the method of plot resolution. However, nothing in the GR positive reviews for this book prepared me for what turned out to be a series of heavily sex-infused vignettes contained therein. Now I'm not a prude but I feel these subsequent 'snapshots of living' for the Blackthorn Briar characters were written around the M-M sex (group sex, human-paranormal sex, trans-sex etc). Given my surprise at the aforementioned plot resolution ... it was as if these vignettes were excised from the original book for whatever editorial rationale (and hence because of the excision - resulted in my what-the? reaction there) and now released in one volume here.
Sometimes, these snapshots of life work well (thinking of such publications by Gregory Ashe, Suanne Laqueur), this one - not so much. All that aside, I am still a fan of the author's historical M-M romances and would have no hesitation in buying any such offerings in future. Sadly, merely a 2.5 stars for this read.
Sometimes, these snapshots of life work well (thinking of such publications by Gregory Ashe, Suanne Laqueur), this one - not so much. All that aside, I am still a fan of the author's historical M-M romances and would have no hesitation in buying any such offerings in future. Sadly, merely a 2.5 stars for this read.
April 8, 2025
MM and MMM+ collection of stories that act as a prolonged epilogue to the original book.
Some of the short stories were surprisingly quite erotic, although the language can be a tad too flowery!
Mabon
Unlike the original book, this is a great and steamy non monogamous encounter wherein Shrike and Wren repay their debt to the Court of Hidden Folk.
Mr Grigsby's Clerk
An unexpected story line that portrays a mature/senior M/M gfy! Where the kind Mr Grigsby finds unexpected care and happiness in the winter of his life.
Jack in the Green
Another steamy non monogamous encounter when a certain Horse Guard wanders into Blackthorn Briar.
Winter Solstice
A tender and much private solstice ritual where Wren finally surrenders to Shrike for the first time compared to their violent and very public summer one where Wren experienced his other first time.
The Holly King's Peril
Impeccable world building and highlighting the dangers of the Fae world but I found this one exceedingly trying as the story stretched too long as we delve into the minutiae of Wren’s recovery.
The Ballad of Daniel Durst
Not exactly my cup of tea but we get a peak at Daniel’s new life with flashbacks that explains scenes in the original book.
Some of the short stories were surprisingly quite erotic, although the language can be a tad too flowery!
Mabon
Unlike the original book, this is a great and steamy non monogamous encounter wherein Shrike and Wren repay their debt to the Court of Hidden Folk.
Mr Grigsby's Clerk
An unexpected story line that portrays a mature/senior M/M gfy! Where the kind Mr Grigsby finds unexpected care and happiness in the winter of his life.
Jack in the Green
Another steamy non monogamous encounter when a certain Horse Guard wanders into Blackthorn Briar.
Winter Solstice
A tender and much private solstice ritual where Wren finally surrenders to Shrike for the first time compared to their violent and very public summer one where Wren experienced his other first time.
The Holly King's Peril
Impeccable world building and highlighting the dangers of the Fae world but I found this one exceedingly trying as the story stretched too long as we delve into the minutiae of Wren’s recovery.
The Ballad of Daniel Durst
Not exactly my cup of tea but we get a peak at Daniel’s new life with flashbacks that explains scenes in the original book.
October 10, 2022
Where do I start? I’m not even sure I have the words, certainly not those measuring up to Nothwell’s but I will try my best.
First and foremost, my love for this book came completely out of left field. I was excited when I received an ARC but I didn’t have much expectation going into it. Suffice to say I was blown away. The world building is rich and colorful, the characters are heart-wrenchingly lovable, and the writing itself is incredible as well.
Wren and Shrike have my whole heart, as do Hull and Ephraim and Sukie and Daniel and Null and Everilda. All of them have the kind of love that has you kicking your feet and blushing at a brush of hands, and the kind of intimacy that makes your heart race.
I don’t know what to say, but not a single story disappointed. I especially enjoyed The Holly King’s Peril because I am an absolute wreck for hurt/comfort.
This is the kind of book that begs to be reread whenever you need a little love and magic <33
First and foremost, my love for this book came completely out of left field. I was excited when I received an ARC but I didn’t have much expectation going into it. Suffice to say I was blown away. The world building is rich and colorful, the characters are heart-wrenchingly lovable, and the writing itself is incredible as well.
Wren and Shrike have my whole heart, as do Hull and Ephraim and Sukie and Daniel and Null and Everilda. All of them have the kind of love that has you kicking your feet and blushing at a brush of hands, and the kind of intimacy that makes your heart race.
I don’t know what to say, but not a single story disappointed. I especially enjoyed The Holly King’s Peril because I am an absolute wreck for hurt/comfort.
This is the kind of book that begs to be reread whenever you need a little love and magic <33
December 25, 2024
December 2023: 5 Stars
Finished this one a year ago and just realized I never circled back to review it. I absolutely loved the stories in TFBB; there's plenty of hurt/comfort to go 'round (🫶🫶🫶), and I was pleasantly surprised with Mr Grigsby's story (though it's safe to say that Hull being so very endearing made it an easy one to get into.)
Daniel's story resonated the most with me. His new life, the anxiety he feels around being outed when Wren and Shrike arrive, but above all the tenderness and grace he gives himself and his wife struck a chord with me. That underlying sense of Rightness that he feels as he lives the life he was meant to definitely brought multiple tears to my eyes.
This review really doesn't do the stories justice, so know that if that ^ was enough to convince you, TFBB is satisfying beyond what my meager words of praise convey. Treat yourself, and give this a read once you've finished (and loved) OKHK.
Finished this one a year ago and just realized I never circled back to review it. I absolutely loved the stories in TFBB; there's plenty of hurt/comfort to go 'round (🫶🫶🫶), and I was pleasantly surprised with Mr Grigsby's story (though it's safe to say that Hull being so very endearing made it an easy one to get into.)
Daniel's story resonated the most with me. His new life, the anxiety he feels around being outed when Wren and Shrike arrive, but above all the tenderness and grace he gives himself and his wife struck a chord with me. That underlying sense of Rightness that he feels as he lives the life he was meant to definitely brought multiple tears to my eyes.
This review really doesn't do the stories justice, so know that if that ^ was enough to convince you, TFBB is satisfying beyond what my meager words of praise convey. Treat yourself, and give this a read once you've finished (and loved) OKHK.
September 21, 2022
Firstly, many thanks to Sebastian for providing me this book.
Secondly, I’m in love.
I haven’t read other Sebastian’s books yet, put i had and have them in tbr. So this book was an introduction, and dare I say it was magnificent.
This book is a collection of short stories which follow different characters, common theme is feast/celebration and, giiirl, is was amazing.
First story introduced us to Wren and Shrike who are invited by Lady to celebrate Mabon in fae realm. And this novella definitely shows us alot.
But next novellas were interesting, full of angst and feelings. I wanted to cry, i wanted to laugh and hug characters, simply amazing.
If you read previous Sebastian’s books, you must read this.
If you didn’t read any books, please give author a chance and try with ‘Oak King Holly King’.
Secondly, I’m in love.
I haven’t read other Sebastian’s books yet, put i had and have them in tbr. So this book was an introduction, and dare I say it was magnificent.
This book is a collection of short stories which follow different characters, common theme is feast/celebration and, giiirl, is was amazing.
First story introduced us to Wren and Shrike who are invited by Lady to celebrate Mabon in fae realm. And this novella definitely shows us alot.
But next novellas were interesting, full of angst and feelings. I wanted to cry, i wanted to laugh and hug characters, simply amazing.
If you read previous Sebastian’s books, you must read this.
If you didn’t read any books, please give author a chance and try with ‘Oak King Holly King’.
July 16, 2023
Given that the majority of these short stories in this sequel are an excuse for happily-ever-after sex, I highly suspect that Nothwell cut his writing teeth on fanfiction and probably still has an active AO3 account - which is no bad thing, but still, interesting to see the fanfic roots showing.
My favorite was the last in the collection, The Ballad of Daniel Durst, in which we see the main characters from the point of view of someone who has no clue about the magic and other realms, but is appreciative of someone who will not go running to the law just because of someone being "Other". Nothwell does an excellent job showing how much work Daniel had to do, making every single tool, word and discovery for himself, with no community to support him on his journey.
October 1, 2022
Somehow that wasn't quite what I was expecting. Bear in mind, I'm not a huge fan of short stories, though I adored Oak King Holly King. That said, the last two stories in this collection were my favorites. I enjoyed getting a look into Daniel's past and present quite a bit and I feel like the story about the Wild Hunt added a depth to both Shrike and Wren. The others were fine. Well written, but not much in the way of plot and I didn't feel like anything was overly added to the world--instead they read like indulgent extras? Which is totally fine, just not what I anticipated.
January 21, 2023
A sexy sequel to an already great book. A lot of good LGBT rep once again, with care and love given to things I have rarely found in queer fiction including polyamory and consent, talking about feelings, old men falling in love and being loved, and some great hurt/comfort. Sir Nothwell I hope I will get to see more books in the world of Shrike, Wren and their comrades. Would love for the Ambassador from the Court of Spindles to get his own short story/love interest.
June 19, 2023
so fun to revisit these characters
I cannot tell you how much I enjoy both books of this series. The imagery is breathtaking and the portrayal of every character makes them significant to the story and a joy to read. I loved Wren and Shrike so much but all the supporting characters felt real and important as well. Me and Mrs Durst and me Grimsly being my favorite but all of them will stay with me for a long time.
I cannot tell you how much I enjoy both books of this series. The imagery is breathtaking and the portrayal of every character makes them significant to the story and a joy to read. I loved Wren and Shrike so much but all the supporting characters felt real and important as well. Me and Mrs Durst and me Grimsly being my favorite but all of them will stay with me for a long time.
Read
January 31, 2025I definitely preferred some of the tales over others. In particular, I liked Mr. Grisby's Clerk and The Ballad of Daniel Durst the best! The Holly King's Peril was a sickfic with lots of comfort in it - which, for the right reader, is probably perfect. The first story, Mabon, felt a little rushed to me, so I wasn't as into it as I would have hoped.
I think reading this directly after reading Oak King Holly King would be the best way to partake!
I think reading this directly after reading Oak King Holly King would be the best way to partake!
March 2, 2023
A must read for “Oak King Holly King” fans! Five stories of varying length wonderfully written! In this anthology we get to see more of Shrike and Wren’s adventures along with meeting new characters and seeing old return. I love how the characters from the previous tales appear in others, I was especially Delighted with Ephraim and Hull’s tale!
January 24, 2024
I was on the fence for most of the book it's a great read for a what happens next for all the characters. The last chapter while filled with angst that had me tensing during the reflections of Daniels past; the ending really warmed me up. Without the last chapter I would have put this in the okay pile but the last chapter moved it into the Good Category.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 14, 2024
As usual with short story collections, some are better than others. The longer stories at the end were more interesting to me. The one about Daniel (Miss Fairfield) was like an extended epilogue and it was nice to see how it all turned out for him.
May 18, 2024
The spice in this book is fantastic, but I think my two favorite stories are the hurt/comfort story of Wren's recovery from the hunt, and Daniel's story. I especially loved how Daniel's trans experience is... described isn't the right word. He just IS.
May 24, 2025
it's hard rating a collection of stories considering i liked some more than others, so three stars is reasonable, i suppose? the ballad of daniel durst is by far my favourite of the stories. oh how i adore these characters, this was a lot of fun.
September 21, 2022
Loved it!
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