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The Fifth Nicnevin #3
Amidst the Insidious Courts
A looming fever, a Guard in exile, and whispers of treason.
I escaped from Fellgotha by the skin of my teeth, and now Elatha will do anything to get me back. My only hope lies in the pilgrimage; an ancient journey taken by Nicnevins to demand the allegiance of the minor royals.
But no one expected my own body to betray me. My fever is coming, and I crave my mates to the point of distraction. On top of that, their protective instincts are running riot. With all of us preoccupied, we might just end up handing our enemies the opportunity they need to bring about our downfall.
I need to unite all five courts if we’re to stand a chance against the Fomorian armada, which means convincing the southern courts to swear their fealty and help us break the siege of Elfhame. If I don’t, Elatha will win.
I escaped from Fellgotha by the skin of my teeth, and now Elatha will do anything to get me back. My only hope lies in the pilgrimage; an ancient journey taken by Nicnevins to demand the allegiance of the minor royals.
But no one expected my own body to betray me. My fever is coming, and I crave my mates to the point of distraction. On top of that, their protective instincts are running riot. With all of us preoccupied, we might just end up handing our enemies the opportunity they need to bring about our downfall.
I need to unite all five courts if we’re to stand a chance against the Fomorian armada, which means convincing the southern courts to swear their fealty and help us break the siege of Elfhame. If I don’t, Elatha will win.
442 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 7, 2023
426 people are currently reading
582 people want to read
About the author
Marie Mistry
23 books955 followersMarie Mistry is a reality challenged reverse harem romance author whose books are full of pirates, magic, and spicy adventures. When she's not writing, you can usually find her curled up with a game or a book and a large cup of tea. She lives in a wonky cottage in Kent with her other half and a super sweet shepherd named Meg.
She'd love for you to join her Facebook reader group: Mistry’s Inc where she hangs out daily: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mistr...
Or check out her website: https://www.mariemistry.com
She'd love for you to join her Facebook reader group: Mistry’s Inc where she hangs out daily: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mistr...
Or check out her website: https://www.mariemistry.com
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November 8, 2023This is book 3 of 5 in the Fifth Nicnevin universe. It is NOT the final book. Updated content warnings are available on my website <3
November 13, 2023
I'm not thrilled with the direction this book took, I loved the first 2 books but this one didn't have the same charm for me.
The first 50% of the story was dedicated to the time leading up to and during the FMCs 'Fever'. The 'Fever' is similar to an Omega heat where the FMC goes into a biological state of intense arousal and all her men become drunk with lust to have her. I found it to be an unnecessary addition to the storyline. Up until now, the story has been slow-burn and the Fever forced intimacy between her and her mates when she would have normally not been ready. But mostly it felt unnecessary because the FMC still needs to 'Mate' with all of her guys and if romance novels have taught us anything 'Mating' brings more intense lovemaking, meaning we will be doing something similar to her 'Fever' all over again later on in the series.
Once we get past the slow-moving Fever storyline things start to speed up and become interesting again. What came was beyond annoying because it ended in a battle that could have been avoided with a bit of forethought from the main characters. Red Flags were flying in thier faces left and right but they ignored them all. Our FMC has a special skill of seeing ghosts and uses them to spy on her loved ones, but she never thinks to have them do any real stealth work for her like spying on her enemies! Seems like an obvious oversight to me.
I still love this series and hope for much better things from Book 4.
Also, Lore is amazing and his POV chapters are the best part of the book!
The first 50% of the story was dedicated to the time leading up to and during the FMCs 'Fever'. The 'Fever' is similar to an Omega heat where the FMC goes into a biological state of intense arousal and all her men become drunk with lust to have her. I found it to be an unnecessary addition to the storyline. Up until now, the story has been slow-burn and the Fever forced intimacy between her and her mates when she would have normally not been ready. But mostly it felt unnecessary because the FMC still needs to 'Mate' with all of her guys and if romance novels have taught us anything 'Mating' brings more intense lovemaking, meaning we will be doing something similar to her 'Fever' all over again later on in the series.
Once we get past the slow-moving Fever storyline things start to speed up and become interesting again. What came was beyond annoying because it ended in a battle that could have been avoided with a bit of forethought from the main characters. Red Flags were flying in thier faces left and right but they ignored them all. Our FMC has a special skill of seeing ghosts and uses them to spy on her loved ones, but she never thinks to have them do any real stealth work for her like spying on her enemies! Seems like an obvious oversight to me.
I still love this series and hope for much better things from Book 4.
Also, Lore is amazing and his POV chapters are the best part of the book!
August 24, 2025
It's a decent series, but I'm getting so bored. I like all of the male main characters. This book was just so slow, and it feels like the characters are constantly being outsmarted. It feels like the plot is starting to go in circles. I'm not sure if I'm going to continue this series, but I did really like it at the start.
There's really creative spicy scenes in this series - I liked that lol
There's really creative spicy scenes in this series - I liked that lol
November 28, 2023
We are on book 3 and very little, if any progress has been made since the start of this series.
I fell in love with Book 1; it pulled me into the magical world of the Fae and their different classes, cultures and magical abilities. Unfortunately, from book 2 onwards, the pacing has been quite an issue for me. I could not get any enjoyment out of the books as the author would simply stall the progress of the plot for 90% of the book while Rose figured out her relationships with her mates and dedicated most of her POV's to her repetitive, inane inner monologues.
Rose is a shockingly weak FMC; she has had 3 generations of Nicnevins with her since childhood to help guide her in fighting, diplomacy, magic, how to be a queen and to give her general information and advice on the Fae world. And yet, Rose uses none of what she has learned to aid her in her dealings within the Fae realm. She prefers to stay ignorant of everything around her. She keeps saying please and thank you despite being told numerous times not to say the words. There is very little in the way of evolution of Rose's character in this book.
The Guards are written to be as different from each other as they possibly can be, to the point that they are all extremely over the top in their personalities and characterisations. I also really disliked Drystan in this book; he spent the majority of the book ridiculing Rose under the guise of him being a "Winter Fae".
The situation with Jaromir could have been a decent plot device to keep the story engaging but the author opted for an omg, could he be lost to Rose forever moment and then more or less cured him immediately.
More time was spent on nothing scenes and very little on the points of major plot upheavals toward the end of the book.
I am sad to say I have lost interest in this story and I don't think I will be picking up the next in the series.
I fell in love with Book 1; it pulled me into the magical world of the Fae and their different classes, cultures and magical abilities. Unfortunately, from book 2 onwards, the pacing has been quite an issue for me. I could not get any enjoyment out of the books as the author would simply stall the progress of the plot for 90% of the book while Rose figured out her relationships with her mates and dedicated most of her POV's to her repetitive, inane inner monologues.
Rose is a shockingly weak FMC; she has had 3 generations of Nicnevins with her since childhood to help guide her in fighting, diplomacy, magic, how to be a queen and to give her general information and advice on the Fae world. And yet, Rose uses none of what she has learned to aid her in her dealings within the Fae realm. She prefers to stay ignorant of everything around her. She keeps saying please and thank you despite being told numerous times not to say the words. There is very little in the way of evolution of Rose's character in this book.
The Guards are written to be as different from each other as they possibly can be, to the point that they are all extremely over the top in their personalities and characterisations. I also really disliked Drystan in this book; he spent the majority of the book ridiculing Rose under the guise of him being a "Winter Fae".
The situation with Jaromir could have been a decent plot device to keep the story engaging but the author opted for an omg, could he be lost to Rose forever moment and then more or less cured him immediately.
More time was spent on nothing scenes and very little on the points of major plot upheavals toward the end of the book.
I am sad to say I have lost interest in this story and I don't think I will be picking up the next in the series.
December 18, 2023
I don't think I've felt this much frustration from a book in a long time.
Everyone was useless in this book. Rose was useless, her guard was useless, and everyone just kept making stupid decisions.
Rose is so weak to the point of being pathetic. Her guard keeps her weak instead of helping her.
I'm not sure I will continue this series.
Everyone was useless in this book. Rose was useless, her guard was useless, and everyone just kept making stupid decisions.
Rose is so weak to the point of being pathetic. Her guard keeps her weak instead of helping her.
I'm not sure I will continue this series.
November 14, 2023
Buddy Read with the #cakeeaters.
About the first three books of this series:
I like the idea of the plot. The first book was slow burn with a lot of world building and the plot felt slow moving. It was an okay book. I like the main and side characters. I decided to read the next book. And here the pace changed: suddenly the plot was moving fast and I was wraped up in the story. I couldn't put it down. The relationship was building. At that point I felt like Lore understood Rose more than the others but Jaro was the sweetest. I like that we get an insight to the Fomorians, especially Caed, his father the tyrant and Paedra his cousin. They life a very different life compared to the fae. So I moved on to the third book. But again this went a very different way, because the first 50% are about Rose's fever. And I skipped a lot of the smexy scenes, because if there are to much, I get bored. But I already knew this, because the others talked about it. Again after 50% things changed. The plot became more important and their lack of communication became more annoying. The next book will come out in 2024.
About the first three books of this series:
I like the idea of the plot. The first book was slow burn with a lot of world building and the plot felt slow moving. It was an okay book. I like the main and side characters. I decided to read the next book. And here the pace changed: suddenly the plot was moving fast and I was wraped up in the story. I couldn't put it down. The relationship was building. At that point I felt like Lore understood Rose more than the others but Jaro was the sweetest. I like that we get an insight to the Fomorians, especially Caed, his father the tyrant and Paedra his cousin. They life a very different life compared to the fae. So I moved on to the third book. But again this went a very different way, because the first 50% are about Rose's fever. And I skipped a lot of the smexy scenes, because if there are to much, I get bored. But I already knew this, because the others talked about it. Again after 50% things changed. The plot became more important and their lack of communication became more annoying. The next book will come out in 2024.
March 5, 2024
For the love of everything unholy, if those abrasive males don't fucking quit it with their "you're too delicate to be anything more than a pretty little empty ornament" sharade, I am going to dip my hat in their mangled ballsacks.
As I'm going to sever Rose's tits from her body if she doesn't fucking snap out of the little subservient pushover meek doormat act. Blaming Danu everytime she finally, FINALLY, proves to have a backbone is giving me goddess damned migraines.
Also, kill you darlings ain't just a petty phrase, it should be implemented too and the smurf with daddy issues and illusions of grandeur should be where it applies.
I actually really enjoy reading books from this author, their writing is up to my standards, the worldbuild is grand as is the development and depth of the characters.
Lorcan, may he Realm hop to me, is absolutely perfect, couldn't have asked for a better mmc tbh. Bree as well.
Now let's talk issues. Namely Drystan, Wolfie and Smurfie.
The former, I guess I can dismiss so very easily, which is exactly the problem to me. I get the idea of him, I just think he's took his own leave from the author's view.
Wolfie boy just gets on my nerves with the goodie-do-good act on one side and the sorrowful controlling act he pulls left, right and center with Rose. He's also a coward, which is just huff worthy. Dismissed.
Now, Caed the Inconsequential (Read is as a Title). I mean I appreciate a good enemy to lovers IF it really is all in. This was just so one sided at the start it's not even funny. Let's skirt over everything that Rose goes through because of him, it's not really what sealed his fate in my eyes, although the fact the he looked away will always remain tied to my trigger-happy finger. What truly made me want to barf on his open mouth was that still, after everything, he wanted to "Survival and Glory" his sorry ass way into his Daddy's graces. Now, you may say, he switched sides, he understood his mistakes, he's a changed Avatar, yada yada yada. I say, he's been cursed with a rather torturous and slow death sentence if he doesn't weasel his way into the Harem's good graces, those two half braincells he has concluded that 2+2 equals 4. It's not redemption, just coercion and survival instincts. I would've killed him off end of book two and made so his death (by Rose's hand) would've been the "forge" the goddess said will shape rose in the Nicnevin she should be. Then forget all about him.
Anyhow, the books are actually pretty good, if frustrating as fuck, so all in all I'm just complaining for the sake of being annoying and abrasive myself.
As I'm going to sever Rose's tits from her body if she doesn't fucking snap out of the little subservient pushover meek doormat act. Blaming Danu everytime she finally, FINALLY, proves to have a backbone is giving me goddess damned migraines.
Also, kill you darlings ain't just a petty phrase, it should be implemented too and the smurf with daddy issues and illusions of grandeur should be where it applies.
I actually really enjoy reading books from this author, their writing is up to my standards, the worldbuild is grand as is the development and depth of the characters.
Lorcan, may he Realm hop to me, is absolutely perfect, couldn't have asked for a better mmc tbh. Bree as well.
Now let's talk issues. Namely Drystan, Wolfie and Smurfie.
The former, I guess I can dismiss so very easily, which is exactly the problem to me. I get the idea of him, I just think he's took his own leave from the author's view.
Wolfie boy just gets on my nerves with the goodie-do-good act on one side and the sorrowful controlling act he pulls left, right and center with Rose. He's also a coward, which is just huff worthy. Dismissed.
Now, Caed the Inconsequential (Read is as a Title). I mean I appreciate a good enemy to lovers IF it really is all in. This was just so one sided at the start it's not even funny. Let's skirt over everything that Rose goes through because of him, it's not really what sealed his fate in my eyes, although the fact the he looked away will always remain tied to my trigger-happy finger. What truly made me want to barf on his open mouth was that still, after everything, he wanted to "Survival and Glory" his sorry ass way into his Daddy's graces. Now, you may say, he switched sides, he understood his mistakes, he's a changed Avatar, yada yada yada. I say, he's been cursed with a rather torturous and slow death sentence if he doesn't weasel his way into the Harem's good graces, those two half braincells he has concluded that 2+2 equals 4. It's not redemption, just coercion and survival instincts. I would've killed him off end of book two and made so his death (by Rose's hand) would've been the "forge" the goddess said will shape rose in the Nicnevin she should be. Then forget all about him.
Anyhow, the books are actually pretty good, if frustrating as fuck, so all in all I'm just complaining for the sake of being annoying and abrasive myself.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 8, 2023
So close to being more ...
Is this a bad book? No, not by any stretch. BUT the time for naivete is over. She is too strong and has been through too much to constantly be run over by others. Everyone else is growing and evolving and the FMC is still a bumpkin from Earth. There are times when she shines, like in the Spring Court. I don't expect her to know everything of course but to act with common sense. If your entourage keeps dropping off and you can't do what you need to obviously something is wrong and the fact of any curiosity is maddening. Even a child says no one in awhile when people keep telling them what to do.
I'm looking forward to the end is the series but I want the MFC to grow TF up. Just because you had sex doesn't mean you're mature and she's died too often and has too many resources to continually be taken advantage of while never getting ahead.
Is this a bad book? No, not by any stretch. BUT the time for naivete is over. She is too strong and has been through too much to constantly be run over by others. Everyone else is growing and evolving and the FMC is still a bumpkin from Earth. There are times when she shines, like in the Spring Court. I don't expect her to know everything of course but to act with common sense. If your entourage keeps dropping off and you can't do what you need to obviously something is wrong and the fact of any curiosity is maddening. Even a child says no one in awhile when people keep telling them what to do.
I'm looking forward to the end is the series but I want the MFC to grow TF up. Just because you had sex doesn't mean you're mature and she's died too often and has too many resources to continually be taken advantage of while never getting ahead.
April 20, 2025
This series is so damn good!!
September 3, 2025
3 Stars
This was a wild ride.
I was close to DNF’ing this because of the first half honestly. Rose in her ‘fever’ just lead to some really wild scenes, and not in a good way.
I don’t think I’ve ever took my glasses off and closed a book before from a smut scene until this book.
It wasn’t out of this world wild, more jarring than anything.
Also please, for the love of god, never use the word for a woman getting wet as ‘weeping’. It reminds me of a wound.
The second half of this book was a great time. Once her fever broke, we got back into politics, bickering and character development.
My favourite character is no doubt Prae. She’s the cousin of Caed and the two of them are gold. I’m honestly invested in their dynamic and his relationship with Rose. It’s the slowest burn in the series, and I’m living for it.
That being said, Prae is a girls girl. I would honestly choose her if I lived in this world.
Men tier ranking;
1. Lorcan - Still has the number one spot simply because he makes me laugh the most, and he’s absolutely crazy. Didn’t love what he did to his appendage, but I’ll look past that since he’s always fun in the bedroom otherwise.
2. Caed - Honestly, very close to being the first. If he was in the book more often, he would probably take Lore’s spot. I hate a few things he’s done in the past, but he clearly cares for Rose and is trying to gain her trust. I cannot wait to see it happen in book four.
3. Bree - A sweetheart who deserves the world. I’m so proud of him for opening up to Rose and trusting her. His development is sadly beautiful and I can’t wait for him to continue to heal from his trauma.
4. Drystan - I like the broody guy, but he’s not that interesting to me. Even with that said, I really like his development in this book and find his moments with Rose sweet. It’s cute that he was raised in a place that’s very cold and emotionless, but does his best to show her in his own way.
5. Jaro - Sorry man, I’m just not into the golden retrievers usually. I appreciate him for what he does for Rose, and making her comfortable, but it’s boring okay? Sue me
This was a wild ride.
I was close to DNF’ing this because of the first half honestly. Rose in her ‘fever’ just lead to some really wild scenes, and not in a good way.
I don’t think I’ve ever took my glasses off and closed a book before from a smut scene until this book.
It wasn’t out of this world wild, more jarring than anything.
Also please, for the love of god, never use the word for a woman getting wet as ‘weeping’. It reminds me of a wound.
The second half of this book was a great time. Once her fever broke, we got back into politics, bickering and character development.
My favourite character is no doubt Prae. She’s the cousin of Caed and the two of them are gold. I’m honestly invested in their dynamic and his relationship with Rose. It’s the slowest burn in the series, and I’m living for it.
That being said, Prae is a girls girl. I would honestly choose her if I lived in this world.
Men tier ranking;
1. Lorcan - Still has the number one spot simply because he makes me laugh the most, and he’s absolutely crazy. Didn’t love what he did to his appendage, but I’ll look past that since he’s always fun in the bedroom otherwise.
2. Caed - Honestly, very close to being the first. If he was in the book more often, he would probably take Lore’s spot. I hate a few things he’s done in the past, but he clearly cares for Rose and is trying to gain her trust. I cannot wait to see it happen in book four.
3. Bree - A sweetheart who deserves the world. I’m so proud of him for opening up to Rose and trusting her. His development is sadly beautiful and I can’t wait for him to continue to heal from his trauma.
4. Drystan - I like the broody guy, but he’s not that interesting to me. Even with that said, I really like his development in this book and find his moments with Rose sweet. It’s cute that he was raised in a place that’s very cold and emotionless, but does his best to show her in his own way.
5. Jaro - Sorry man, I’m just not into the golden retrievers usually. I appreciate him for what he does for Rose, and making her comfortable, but it’s boring okay? Sue me
June 12, 2024
I wasn't too fond of the pacing of this- nothing really happened and the characters just continuously kept ignoring blatant signs that something was wrong.
I'm hoping the next ones a good conclusion to the series🤞. And as always Lore really made this one enjoyable I love him so much 😭.
I'm hoping the next ones a good conclusion to the series🤞. And as always Lore really made this one enjoyable I love him so much 😭.
November 1, 2023
"𝘌𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶, 𝘳𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘥𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘥𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘰𝘯 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘸𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴, 𝘩𝘢𝘴 𝘢𝘭𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘩𝘢𝘥, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘭𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦, 𝘮𝘺 𝘶𝘯𝘸𝘢𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘥𝘦𝘷𝘰𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯. [...] 𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘴, 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘐 𝘢𝘮 𝘢𝘸𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘴𝘭𝘦𝘦𝘱, 𝘩𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘺 𝘰𝘳 𝘧𝘶𝘳𝘪𝘰𝘶𝘴. 𝘐𝘵 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘢𝘪𝘯 𝘴𝘰 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘩𝘰𝘸𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘺 𝘤𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘥𝘦𝘤𝘪𝘥𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘳𝘦𝘪𝘨𝘯 𝘢𝘴 𝘕𝘪𝘤𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘯, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘐 𝘢𝘮 𝘢𝘭𝘮𝘰𝘴𝘵 𝘤𝘦𝘳𝘵𝘢𝘪𝘯 𝘪𝘵 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘶𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘐 𝘧𝘰𝘭𝘭𝘰𝘸 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘖𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘭𝘥."
Thank you so, so much, Marie Mistry, for gifting me with this ARC!
This review states - like always - my honest opinion of the book.
Marie Mistry did it again: I'm devastated by the cliffhanger and need more ASAP!
But back to the beginning. In the first chapter, I annotated already so many things because her writing style is again as good as I remembered. I feared to never finish "Amidst the Insidious Courts" owing to the need to highlight all those quotes, but the story sucked me right in and I somehow forgot to annotate them.
While "Beyond the Faerie Gate" and "Across an Endless Sea" are a little lighter on the spice level, this book turns the heat UP! Be prepared to be swept away by a burning mating fever, relief lending services and a possessive Guard who all love to be dust marked by their Queen. Oh, and sensitive wings!
About said Queen, Rose gains more confidence in this book, even if she still hasn't reached her full potential yet - but we also have two more books to change that. She feels more comfortable with most of her mates and confronts her enemies over time with the "taking no sh*t" attitude. Sometimes the shy girl perks through, however, Rosie slowy but surely grows a backbone.
The guys... I want a Guard like that too! Maybe not delivered with that "all the people plotting my downfall" package, but at least I need a redcap like Lore (under us, if I'd be taking favorites, he would be my number one). And a sweet Bree. And a wolf shifter to cuddle with. And a leader like Drystan. Oh, and an groveling Caed! (Marie Mistry, I need more groveling, please!)
You see, AtIC has everything you might want: it continues with great worldbuilding, including an omnipresent Goddess, a protective and scorching hot reverse harem and a mean, mean cliffhanger.
(I. Need. The. Next. Book.)
5/5⭐️
Thank you so, so much, Marie Mistry, for gifting me with this ARC!
This review states - like always - my honest opinion of the book.
Marie Mistry did it again: I'm devastated by the cliffhanger and need more ASAP!
But back to the beginning. In the first chapter, I annotated already so many things because her writing style is again as good as I remembered. I feared to never finish "Amidst the Insidious Courts" owing to the need to highlight all those quotes, but the story sucked me right in and I somehow forgot to annotate them.
While "Beyond the Faerie Gate" and "Across an Endless Sea" are a little lighter on the spice level, this book turns the heat UP! Be prepared to be swept away by a burning mating fever, relief lending services and a possessive Guard who all love to be dust marked by their Queen. Oh, and sensitive wings!
About said Queen, Rose gains more confidence in this book, even if she still hasn't reached her full potential yet - but we also have two more books to change that. She feels more comfortable with most of her mates and confronts her enemies over time with the "taking no sh*t" attitude. Sometimes the shy girl perks through, however, Rosie slowy but surely grows a backbone.
The guys... I want a Guard like that too! Maybe not delivered with that "all the people plotting my downfall" package, but at least I need a redcap like Lore (under us, if I'd be taking favorites, he would be my number one). And a sweet Bree. And a wolf shifter to cuddle with. And a leader like Drystan. Oh, and an groveling Caed! (Marie Mistry, I need more groveling, please!)
You see, AtIC has everything you might want: it continues with great worldbuilding, including an omnipresent Goddess, a protective and scorching hot reverse harem and a mean, mean cliffhanger.
(I. Need. The. Next. Book.)
5/5⭐️
September 6, 2024
There's a LOT that I didn't like about this book, it's definitely a 2.5 rounded up. But I guess I'll cover the things that I did like first.
- Bree continues to be the absolute best guard/mate/whatever the hell. He's more attuned to Rose than any of the others and he respects her feelings and wishes above all else. The fact that he even tried to be with her in any kind of sexual way is a testament to this dude's fortitude. He's sensitive and gentle and will also rip someone's throat out, which I respect. He immediately knows that something is up in the summer court and works to find it out/stop it, but as the rest of the bumblefuck guards are busy either ignoring the absolutely massive red flags, or nursing their hurt fee-fees, well he doesn't succeed. Still, I give him much credit for being the best of the lot and the book gets one whole star for him alone.
- Lore is still fun. I actually enjoy that murder is his solution to almost every issue because goddammit most of these fucking fae royals should be shanked. Cutting the hand off of a fae reaching for Bree made me want to hug him (that rapist deserved it). He's also more attuned to Rose and actually thinks about her and her needs far more often than you'd think a psycho would. He will never take first place because he was an utter failure when it came to protecting Rose in the end; he's too fucking cocky for his own good and I hope this knocks him down a peg.
- Caed is still one of the better dudes. He may have been a fuckup asshole for the first two books, but he's literally the only person trying to warn anyone about what's up in Siabetha. Even considering his previous behavior he's still leagues better than the two remaining shithead guard.
- Prae is a better version of Caed and honestly this book should have just made her a mate, some f/f in this book series could only make it better. Oooo, how about we replace Drystan with Prae and call it even? She's smart and a capable inventor. She's brave as hell and plainspoken. A better mate than that antlered fuck by far.
Things I didn't like:
- Rose and how she's treated by most of her guard. I know she's new to all of this shit, but she lets Jaromir and that fuckhead Drystan run roughshod over her whenever she tries to assert herself. She rightly wants to train in weaponry/fighting and those assholes flat out tell her no (when Drystan suggested that she take up knitting I wanted to fucking punch him to the moon). This chick needs to learn to assert herself asap in every single way. God, the way she's manhandled and passed around like a fucking doll makes me livid. She's treated like a child most of the time, so I guess Jaromir and Drystan (the worst offenders when it comes to coddling her) are into fucking kids.
- Drystan can kiss my ass. What a massive, egotistical fucking tool. He thinks he knows better in every single situation and he's almost constantly wrong. He's rude, cold and enragingly self-righteous. Eating someone out with your detached head doesn't make you a good character (Marie Mistry, take fucking note here). He's the worst of the worst and I honestly hate him. I wish that Rose would reject his ass, but she's too weak to do it. He deserves only scorn. One star off here too.
- Jaromir can also fuck off. He had to run off and placate his stupid fucking wolf and be a useless asshole for the rest of the book. I'm tired of his constant whinging about what a failure he is (he's right and people should remind him that he sucks every single day). He and his chucklefuck partner in crime (Drystan) are 100% responsible for what happens in the summer court. One star off for him.
- The sheer amount of stupidity on display from everyone who should know better (this includes the ghost grandmas) the minute that they arrive in Siabetha is just insane. Why does everyone suddenly decide that everything is great and nothing could possibly be wrong, despite already coming from a poisonous court just like five minutes ago? I know it's for plot reasons, but making everyone stupid as hell so that you can write yourself into a dramatic cliffhanger is bullshit that more authors should be called out on.
- Bree continues to be the absolute best guard/mate/whatever the hell. He's more attuned to Rose than any of the others and he respects her feelings and wishes above all else. The fact that he even tried to be with her in any kind of sexual way is a testament to this dude's fortitude. He's sensitive and gentle and will also rip someone's throat out, which I respect. He immediately knows that something is up in the summer court and works to find it out/stop it, but as the rest of the bumblefuck guards are busy either ignoring the absolutely massive red flags, or nursing their hurt fee-fees, well he doesn't succeed. Still, I give him much credit for being the best of the lot and the book gets one whole star for him alone.
- Lore is still fun. I actually enjoy that murder is his solution to almost every issue because goddammit most of these fucking fae royals should be shanked. Cutting the hand off of a fae reaching for Bree made me want to hug him (that rapist deserved it). He's also more attuned to Rose and actually thinks about her and her needs far more often than you'd think a psycho would. He will never take first place because he was an utter failure when it came to protecting Rose in the end; he's too fucking cocky for his own good and I hope this knocks him down a peg.
- Caed is still one of the better dudes. He may have been a fuckup asshole for the first two books, but he's literally the only person trying to warn anyone about what's up in Siabetha. Even considering his previous behavior he's still leagues better than the two remaining shithead guard.
- Prae is a better version of Caed and honestly this book should have just made her a mate, some f/f in this book series could only make it better. Oooo, how about we replace Drystan with Prae and call it even? She's smart and a capable inventor. She's brave as hell and plainspoken. A better mate than that antlered fuck by far.
Things I didn't like:
- Rose and how she's treated by most of her guard. I know she's new to all of this shit, but she lets Jaromir and that fuckhead Drystan run roughshod over her whenever she tries to assert herself. She rightly wants to train in weaponry/fighting and those assholes flat out tell her no (when Drystan suggested that she take up knitting I wanted to fucking punch him to the moon). This chick needs to learn to assert herself asap in every single way. God, the way she's manhandled and passed around like a fucking doll makes me livid. She's treated like a child most of the time, so I guess Jaromir and Drystan (the worst offenders when it comes to coddling her) are into fucking kids.
- Drystan can kiss my ass. What a massive, egotistical fucking tool. He thinks he knows better in every single situation and he's almost constantly wrong. He's rude, cold and enragingly self-righteous. Eating someone out with your detached head doesn't make you a good character (Marie Mistry, take fucking note here). He's the worst of the worst and I honestly hate him. I wish that Rose would reject his ass, but she's too weak to do it. He deserves only scorn. One star off here too.
- Jaromir can also fuck off. He had to run off and placate his stupid fucking wolf and be a useless asshole for the rest of the book. I'm tired of his constant whinging about what a failure he is (he's right and people should remind him that he sucks every single day). He and his chucklefuck partner in crime (Drystan) are 100% responsible for what happens in the summer court. One star off for him.
- The sheer amount of stupidity on display from everyone who should know better (this includes the ghost grandmas) the minute that they arrive in Siabetha is just insane. Why does everyone suddenly decide that everything is great and nothing could possibly be wrong, despite already coming from a poisonous court just like five minutes ago? I know it's for plot reasons, but making everyone stupid as hell so that you can write yourself into a dramatic cliffhanger is bullshit that more authors should be called out on.
July 3, 2024
I have mixed feelings about this book. I'm sad to say I found the first half quite average. I'm not a fan of the whole frenzy trope, and especially knowing it was coming since the first book, there was something that just felt too... scheduled about it? Almost forced? Not in a non-consenual kind of way, I think the characters did a good job of establishing boundaries and all that, but it just made the story feel a bit too predictable, I think. It meant the first half of the book was a bit overloaded with spicy scenes that often felt forced. I appreciate that the frenzy wasn't used as a quick fix for the issues with Bri and Caed, at least. Those two are my favourite and I'm really enjoying seeing how their relationships continue to develop with Rose.
Once that was all out of the way, I really enjoyed the rest of the book. The story was interesting, there were some compelling characters, and the challenges the main group faced were giving me some serious anxiety at times (in a good way)! I hope we see Rose being more assertive in the next book. I think her self-doubt in this one was totally understandable, and we started to see her getting more frustrated with the guys not taking her opinions seriously enough, but now I'm really hoping the events at the end of the book will have her trusting her insincts more and backing herself. Also, I hope she pulls an "I told you so" on Drystan, because maybe training wouldn't have helped much for what happened at the end, but it's especially clear now that she can't just rely solely on the guys protecting her.
I get the feeling the character growth (for both Rose and the guys) is heading that direction, and I seriously hope I'm right, otherwise I'm gonna start getting pissed with how overbearing and downright dismissive they can be. I can't stand guys who are so protective they dominate the FMC's wishes, and there was definitely some of that happening in this book. Yeah some of it was discussed, but I feel like it always ended up with Rose being the one to compromise without the guys ever having to change or even apologise for their behaviour? Mostly Drystan, and Jaro to an extent, but Lore and Bri didn't really actively stick up for her either. Now that I'm writing it out, I'm realising that a lot of this book felt like it was Rose against her guys more than with them, except when they were having sex lmao. But as I said, I'm hoping that's an intentional thing that we'll see improvement with in the next book.
I'm super excited to see her spend more time with Caed! I cannot wait for him to finally get a chance to redeem himself. Bring on book 4!
Once that was all out of the way, I really enjoyed the rest of the book. The story was interesting, there were some compelling characters, and the challenges the main group faced were giving me some serious anxiety at times (in a good way)! I hope we see Rose being more assertive in the next book. I think her self-doubt in this one was totally understandable, and we started to see her getting more frustrated with the guys not taking her opinions seriously enough, but now I'm really hoping the events at the end of the book will have her trusting her insincts more and backing herself. Also, I hope she pulls an "I told you so" on Drystan, because maybe training wouldn't have helped much for what happened at the end, but it's especially clear now that she can't just rely solely on the guys protecting her.
I get the feeling the character growth (for both Rose and the guys) is heading that direction, and I seriously hope I'm right, otherwise I'm gonna start getting pissed with how overbearing and downright dismissive they can be. I can't stand guys who are so protective they dominate the FMC's wishes, and there was definitely some of that happening in this book. Yeah some of it was discussed, but I feel like it always ended up with Rose being the one to compromise without the guys ever having to change or even apologise for their behaviour? Mostly Drystan, and Jaro to an extent, but Lore and Bri didn't really actively stick up for her either. Now that I'm writing it out, I'm realising that a lot of this book felt like it was Rose against her guys more than with them, except when they were having sex lmao. But as I said, I'm hoping that's an intentional thing that we'll see improvement with in the next book.
I'm super excited to see her spend more time with Caed! I cannot wait for him to finally get a chance to redeem himself. Bring on book 4!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 16, 2024
I love it but also dislike it
If she’s this powerful Goddess incarnate why can’t she just demand and do things? Why must she do political things? Perhaps it wasn’t explained to me but if you’re all powerful surely you don’t have to follow the rules. Also why tf can’t they mate yet? Some tradition? But they could possibly communicate via the bond if they fully mated yes? Then why not do it? Also she can see the former Nicnevin’s so why doesn’t she have them spy on her enemies? Especially if Caed’s father is on his way to their area. I feel like a lot of things could be solved relatively quickly with her powers but we don’t utilize them well.
Also for how much her fever was spoken about it really felt like it was two scenes and then over. I’d have liked a little bit more if it was supposed to last more than a few days.
I hated the last half of the book. I’d like to know why the Guard thought it was acceptable to disband essentially. I want to figure out why Jaro thought it was appropriate to rush off bc of his feelings and his wolf rather than talk to Rose about what’s going on. Especially when they are in enemy territory.
Caed’s curse nothing happens with him in this book. No saving grace no special thing. No conversation or action to show his change.
Bram jumping in front of Rose when she will rebirth was dumb. Especially since it sounds like he can’t come back from that….still iffy on that.
Crazy ending though.
If she’s this powerful Goddess incarnate why can’t she just demand and do things? Why must she do political things? Perhaps it wasn’t explained to me but if you’re all powerful surely you don’t have to follow the rules. Also why tf can’t they mate yet? Some tradition? But they could possibly communicate via the bond if they fully mated yes? Then why not do it? Also she can see the former Nicnevin’s so why doesn’t she have them spy on her enemies? Especially if Caed’s father is on his way to their area. I feel like a lot of things could be solved relatively quickly with her powers but we don’t utilize them well.
Also for how much her fever was spoken about it really felt like it was two scenes and then over. I’d have liked a little bit more if it was supposed to last more than a few days.
I hated the last half of the book. I’d like to know why the Guard thought it was acceptable to disband essentially. I want to figure out why Jaro thought it was appropriate to rush off bc of his feelings and his wolf rather than talk to Rose about what’s going on. Especially when they are in enemy territory.
Caed’s curse nothing happens with him in this book. No saving grace no special thing. No conversation or action to show his change.
Bram jumping in front of Rose when she will rebirth was dumb. Especially since it sounds like he can’t come back from that….still iffy on that.
Crazy ending though.
November 23, 2023
.
I was looking forward to this , and was super excited. But I found that the first 40% dragged, nothing happened during it, and I genuinely feel like it shouldn’t have taken up so much of the book. There wasn’t much character development here (like there was at the end) to make up for lack of plot.
As a spicy romance reader, the jump from being slightly spicy to this just felt awkward and I couldn’t read some of the scenes because it was weird.
I’m also not a fan when books add in popular modern day things. Especially when you think back to the village Rose came from, it just doesn’t make sense.
I can appreciate that unlike a lot of fantasy books, the main character actually struggles and has to work on improving themselves. Rose wasn’t just magically good at all the queen things or her magic.
With all that being said, that ending came quick and was insane. I was clutching my pillow and repeating the word “no” because I didn’t want it to end.
I was looking forward to this , and was super excited. But I found that the first 40% dragged, nothing happened during it, and I genuinely feel like it shouldn’t have taken up so much of the book. There wasn’t much character development here (like there was at the end) to make up for lack of plot.
As a spicy romance reader, the jump from being slightly spicy to this just felt awkward and I couldn’t read some of the scenes because it was weird.
I’m also not a fan when books add in popular modern day things. Especially when you think back to the village Rose came from, it just doesn’t make sense.
I can appreciate that unlike a lot of fantasy books, the main character actually struggles and has to work on improving themselves. Rose wasn’t just magically good at all the queen things or her magic.
With all that being said, that ending came quick and was insane. I was clutching my pillow and repeating the word “no” because I didn’t want it to end.
September 6, 2025
its really starting to drag now and they are acting so DUMB never listening to Rose acting like they know so much better than FRICKING GODDES so in the end their assess got kicked we are stuck with Caed
Meeting my gaze evenly, he cuts me off with little more than an arrogant look. “I have never, in my life, wanted any female the way I want you. I’m not so young as to be so easily influenced by a bond— even one as powerful as a Guard’s oath. This… obsession is purely your fault, Rhoswyn.” Something akin to anger flashes in his gaze for a second before he steps away and gestures for me to walk ahead back to camp.
“I brought your brother back to you.” “Because Danu’s curse made you.” Does he think me stupid? “What happens if you can’t make Drystan trust you by her deadline, and you decide going out in a blaze of glory is your best option? You’ll trick me again and drag me back to your father in the hopes they’ll place your statue next to Balor’s. I’m not falling for it.”
“Every part of you, right down to the dust on your wings, has always had, and always will have, my unwavering devotion and attention.” He brushes my hair back into place. “That never changes, whether I am awake or asleep, happy or furious. It will remain so for however many centuries you decide to reign as Nicnevin, and I am almost certain it will continue when I follow you to the Otherworld.”
slight safety warning
while there are still no ow/om king of the summer court tries to create drama by gathering their ex lovers to rub in Rose face, it is worth noting no scene happens except this qoute
The princesses, maybe even Eero himself, must be behind this. It’s not just every single one of my regular ‘patrons,’ but Lore’s and Jaro’s words make it clear their old lovers are present, too. Those must be the faces I don’t know.
also SA of one of her mate but nothing on page
Meeting my gaze evenly, he cuts me off with little more than an arrogant look. “I have never, in my life, wanted any female the way I want you. I’m not so young as to be so easily influenced by a bond— even one as powerful as a Guard’s oath. This… obsession is purely your fault, Rhoswyn.” Something akin to anger flashes in his gaze for a second before he steps away and gestures for me to walk ahead back to camp.
“I brought your brother back to you.” “Because Danu’s curse made you.” Does he think me stupid? “What happens if you can’t make Drystan trust you by her deadline, and you decide going out in a blaze of glory is your best option? You’ll trick me again and drag me back to your father in the hopes they’ll place your statue next to Balor’s. I’m not falling for it.”
“Every part of you, right down to the dust on your wings, has always had, and always will have, my unwavering devotion and attention.” He brushes my hair back into place. “That never changes, whether I am awake or asleep, happy or furious. It will remain so for however many centuries you decide to reign as Nicnevin, and I am almost certain it will continue when I follow you to the Otherworld.”
slight safety warning
while there are still no ow/om king of the summer court tries to create drama by gathering their ex lovers to rub in Rose face, it is worth noting no scene happens except this qoute
The princesses, maybe even Eero himself, must be behind this. It’s not just every single one of my regular ‘patrons,’ but Lore’s and Jaro’s words make it clear their old lovers are present, too. Those must be the faces I don’t know.
also SA of one of her mate but nothing on page
November 17, 2025
I am utterly bewildered by what I just read. This was a different book entirely compared to its predecessors, and… 2 ⭐️’s is generous for what I read because I cannot unread it 😳
Essentially, it was too much 🌶️ and not enough plot. The amount of eye rolling 🙄 and annoyed sighs of me asking “why” 😫 was world-record breaking.
Actually 🤨 there is some plot. But don’t get your hopes up. It is so infinitesimally small that when it happens you feel like that this is it, this is when the story actually starts (which is around the 50%). Then within 5 seconds you’re back to, wait for it… more 🌶️ (and it’s written in a way that’s just so… weird and completely out of genre). It gets me wondering 🤔 Have we not heard of figurative language? A metaphor would not be remiss here. Leave something to the imagination please, because sometimes that is way better than being told… a lot of things that were said/written in this book.
It got to a point where I started skimming and scanning the remaining chapters, it got better to a degree (hence the 2 ⭐️’s, the other reason being the bygone potential of what it could have been based on the previous two books).
And I have nothing against having those kind of romance elements in a story, but when it is the only thing in a whole story and it takes precedence over plot (in what has been previously established to be an epic fantasy with a decent plot + worldbuilding) and is constantly something that doesn’t leave you alone no matter how far into the book you get, then we got problems.
Simply put, this book had its priorities backwards: poorly balanced in terms of plot and romance, and the writing style was just 😬
Will I keep going? Well there’s only two books to go, it can only get better after this… right?
Essentially, it was too much 🌶️ and not enough plot. The amount of eye rolling 🙄 and annoyed sighs of me asking “why” 😫 was world-record breaking.
Actually 🤨 there is some plot. But don’t get your hopes up. It is so infinitesimally small that when it happens you feel like that this is it, this is when the story actually starts (which is around the 50%). Then within 5 seconds you’re back to, wait for it… more 🌶️ (and it’s written in a way that’s just so… weird and completely out of genre). It gets me wondering 🤔 Have we not heard of figurative language? A metaphor would not be remiss here. Leave something to the imagination please, because sometimes that is way better than being told… a lot of things that were said/written in this book.
It got to a point where I started skimming and scanning the remaining chapters, it got better to a degree (hence the 2 ⭐️’s, the other reason being the bygone potential of what it could have been based on the previous two books).
And I have nothing against having those kind of romance elements in a story, but when it is the only thing in a whole story and it takes precedence over plot (in what has been previously established to be an epic fantasy with a decent plot + worldbuilding) and is constantly something that doesn’t leave you alone no matter how far into the book you get, then we got problems.
Simply put, this book had its priorities backwards: poorly balanced in terms of plot and romance, and the writing style was just 😬
Will I keep going? Well there’s only two books to go, it can only get better after this… right?
November 9, 2023
*mild spoilers to spicy scene*
I am utterly speechless., destroyed and desperate for more. The headless scene, the complete and utter destruction. The cliffhanger that had me throw my kindle across the room. The pain, the beautiful, soul destroying, perfect pain. I am so completely in love with this book it is unreal. It fixed the pain from Across the Endless Sea only to break me even more, and yet I loved and adored every single second. I need more
I am utterly speechless., destroyed and desperate for more. The headless scene, the complete and utter destruction. The cliffhanger that had me throw my kindle across the room. The pain, the beautiful, soul destroying, perfect pain. I am so completely in love with this book it is unreal. It fixed the pain from Across the Endless Sea only to break me even more, and yet I loved and adored every single second. I need more
February 23, 2025
Annnd the end for me.
I struggled with book 3. After 80% of all that, I just skipped to the end.
The characters are not growing and evolving. If anything Rose has started whinging more. I'd hoped her characterisation would have been less weak woman and more capable heroine.
Rose and her guard were just taking too long to bond. Book 3 come on! They are always in danger and simply bonding would have made all their powers work properly. What is the actual problem here?? They are already linked for life, they have already been intimate, nothing can change that. So why were we being put through all that..?
It just felt like more and more made up issues kept coming up that were unnecessary. Bond!! end of silly problems.
The only MMC I actually liked was Lore. Probably what kept me reading this long. But enough is enough, I was getting bored, skipping pages and thinking about my next read.
I struggled with book 3. After 80% of all that, I just skipped to the end.
The characters are not growing and evolving. If anything Rose has started whinging more. I'd hoped her characterisation would have been less weak woman and more capable heroine.
Rose and her guard were just taking too long to bond. Book 3 come on! They are always in danger and simply bonding would have made all their powers work properly. What is the actual problem here?? They are already linked for life, they have already been intimate, nothing can change that. So why were we being put through all that..?
It just felt like more and more made up issues kept coming up that were unnecessary. Bond!! end of silly problems.
The only MMC I actually liked was Lore. Probably what kept me reading this long. But enough is enough, I was getting bored, skipping pages and thinking about my next read.
July 29, 2025
So much happening!
There is just sooooo much happening in this book. The development of all the characters and the story are sublime. Honestly can't get enough and I can't wait to dig into the 4th installment!
There is just sooooo much happening in this book. The development of all the characters and the story are sublime. Honestly can't get enough and I can't wait to dig into the 4th installment!
December 21, 2024
I’m a hoe for these men…except Jaro.
June 5, 2025
Hooked! Obsessed! Plot and spice have hit full throttle and have not disappointed. Jumping straight into book four.
November 9, 2023
This Book Breaks the Mold
So often when reading books that are in the middle of the series you get middle child syndrome. The book is either full of flashy look and me random stuff or filler fluff that barely moves the story along. Not only was the story gripping, full of spice, and character growth, it also was a relevant story in and of itself. I couldn’t put it down. I cannot wait for the next one.
So often when reading books that are in the middle of the series you get middle child syndrome. The book is either full of flashy look and me random stuff or filler fluff that barely moves the story along. Not only was the story gripping, full of spice, and character growth, it also was a relevant story in and of itself. I couldn’t put it down. I cannot wait for the next one.
August 24, 2024
I loved the first 2 books from this series but the third just wasn’t it for me. Firstly the fmc is supposed to be this powerful entity and the most powerful person alive in fearie and there were so many scenes where she could have solved the conflicts using her powers.
And her use of her power is so inconsistent sometimes she is “not ready” as her harem likes to remind her every single chapter and other times she uses it to take down a century old queen. I just don’t get it. And her harem is getting so annoying. I get being overprotective but they are literally blocking her from growing into her power or making decisions on her own and it’s so infuriating. I mean she is supposed to be a queen but they treat her like a baby and when she comes to a decision, like when wanted to learn how to fight, her harem was like “it’s too dangerous. Blah bla bla”
I only have two stars because of the concept that was super cool but I don’t know if I want to continue with the rest of the series.
And her use of her power is so inconsistent sometimes she is “not ready” as her harem likes to remind her every single chapter and other times she uses it to take down a century old queen. I just don’t get it. And her harem is getting so annoying. I get being overprotective but they are literally blocking her from growing into her power or making decisions on her own and it’s so infuriating. I mean she is supposed to be a queen but they treat her like a baby and when she comes to a decision, like when wanted to learn how to fight, her harem was like “it’s too dangerous. Blah bla bla”
I only have two stars because of the concept that was super cool but I don’t know if I want to continue with the rest of the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 5, 2025
This book is a mix of anxiety, frustration, anger, and sweetness. But mostly frustration. I feel like Rose is swimming and swimming but never reaching any place. No one explains things properly to her, her mates prefer to take action than teach her, they barely know each other on a deeper level, and so many people walk all over her. I just want to see the moment she snaps and kills everyone. Like seriously, I want my revenge!
Overall, it was a good book, though I still don't see a lit of development from in the romantic sense. They have sex and all, but they don't talk at all. Everyone's still a mystery.
Overall, it was a good book, though I still don't see a lit of development from in the romantic sense. They have sex and all, but they don't talk at all. Everyone's still a mystery.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 15, 2024
DNF 80%
So I actually waited for this book AND the next one to come out so that I wouldn't be left hanging and could complete the series.
Unfortunately this one just tried my patience and eventually put me right off.
I'm so sick of her being this useless damsel. He guard doesn't even respect her enough to include her in decisions, or even certain conversations.
It's infuriating.
The only one of the guard that I actually consistently liked throughout this series is Lore, mostly because he's the only one that fully listens and supports her in all things. The others treat her largely like a naive child throughout series.
So I actually waited for this book AND the next one to come out so that I wouldn't be left hanging and could complete the series.
Unfortunately this one just tried my patience and eventually put me right off.
I'm so sick of her being this useless damsel. He guard doesn't even respect her enough to include her in decisions, or even certain conversations.
It's infuriating.
The only one of the guard that I actually consistently liked throughout this series is Lore, mostly because he's the only one that fully listens and supports her in all things. The others treat her largely like a naive child throughout series.
June 18, 2024
I absolutely loved this book! I couldn't put it down. The writing, like always, is amazing. The world building is so on point. We get to see the Spring Court and Summer Courts in AtIC, and damn the things that go down.... Rose starts to become more confident in herself, though she still has her moments where her sweet shyness shows through. But the spice in this book 🥵 all I've got to say is damn it's HOT! I can not wait for the next book. The cliffhanger at the end of this one still has me in its grips.
July 3, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
"“Every part of you, right down to the dust on your wings, has always had, and always will have, my unwavering devotion and attention.” He brushes my hair back into place. “That never changes, whether I am awake or asleep, happy or furious. It will remain so for however many centuries you decide to reign as Nicnevin, and I am almost certain it will continue when I follow you to the Otherworld.”"
***** Review with spoilers *****
Another good book, though this one felt just a little bit below the level of the previous two. Some pages had me completely hooked—I was devouring every single word, especially scenes like the one with the Spring Queen, which was absolutely incredible. But others fell a bit flat, with over-detailed descriptions that made me skip through some parts. This time, it felt more like I was waiting for something big to happen, instead of enjoying a steady rhythm of action and development like the other books had.
Now, about the whole Summer King situation… yeah, that bothered me. If I’m being honest, I expected more from her Guards. They're older, more experienced, and have been around long enough to pick up on danger or sketchy behavior. So the fact that they didn’t notice how Guard after Guard was disappearing, without returning for weeks, just didn’t sit right with me. Add to that the warnings they got from the Spring Queen and everything they experienced in her court… they really should have been more suspicious and cautious. The fact that even Rose herself picked up on things being off before they did made it feel like the author intentionally made them blind to obvious red flags just to move the plot forward, and I’m not a fan of that kind of choice.
Some of the sex scenes also felt like a bit much—especially during her heat. It was just too many one after another, and I found myself just wanting to move on to the next part of the story. Not all of them bothered me though—some were actually really hot. But that sex scene with Drystan’s head in her hands? While his body was separated from it? On top of a horse?? That was just a little too freaky for me. Definitely not my cup of tea.
I did enjoy how Rose came across as more confident in this book. Not as much as I’d hoped for—she still slips into the damsel-in-distress role a little too often for someone who’s supposed to be the most powerful being out there—but it’s progress. I have a feeling the next book will be the real turning point for her, especially now that she only has Caed by her side to help get her Guards back. She still has a lot to learn and room to grow, particularly when it comes to mastering Danu’s power, but she’s clearly on her way.
And speaking of growth, I absolutely loved how Bree’s trauma is being handled. The author didn’t just “fix” him out of nowhere with a magical bond or a snap of the fingers. She’s taking the time to show his healing process—how he’s slowly, gradually reclaiming his life and learning to be touched again, little by little. That kind of care and attention to character development is something I really appreciate.
Another highlight was how well-defined Rose’s mates continue to be. Each one has his own unique struggles, backstory, and personality. They're not just copy-pasted “hot guys” with different hair colors—they're individuals. Lore brings that fun, crazy, unhinged energy; Drystan is the dominant, protective one; Jare brings softness and devotion; and Bree is gentle, steady, and supportive. Each of them offers something different to Rose and to the relationship, and I love that. It’s something rare to find in reverse harem books, where too often the guys feel like one person split into several bodies.
In the end, it was still a fun and enjoyable book. It had its exciting parts that made me fly through the pages, and it definitely kept me curious about what’s coming next. But it also had its lows, with some slow sections and a few plot choices that made me roll my eyes a bit—especially the whole Summer Court situation blindness issue. Still, I’m looking forward to the next book, and I hope it brings all the strength, growth, and fire I know Rose has in her.
Main characters: Rhoswyn, Jaromir/Jare, Drystan, Caedmon/Caed, Lorcan/Lore, Bricriu/Bree and Wraith (her companion/puppy).
Tropes: chosen one, fated mates, grumpy and sunshine, moraly grey, reverse harem, slow burn, touch her and die.
Supernatural types: they're all fae, but with different powers. Rhoswyn - necromancy and charm, Jare - shifter, Drystan - rare kind of fae that loses his head and hunt the dead to the afterlife, Caedmon - half fae, half fomorian, Lorcan - redcap - he has a magic hat that eats blood and has the storage of Hermione purse, Bree - kind of a shifter too, but with a bunch of magic animals that come out of his tattoos (among other things).
"“Every part of you, right down to the dust on your wings, has always had, and always will have, my unwavering devotion and attention.” He brushes my hair back into place. “That never changes, whether I am awake or asleep, happy or furious. It will remain so for however many centuries you decide to reign as Nicnevin, and I am almost certain it will continue when I follow you to the Otherworld.”"
***** Review with spoilers *****
Another good book, though this one felt just a little bit below the level of the previous two. Some pages had me completely hooked—I was devouring every single word, especially scenes like the one with the Spring Queen, which was absolutely incredible. But others fell a bit flat, with over-detailed descriptions that made me skip through some parts. This time, it felt more like I was waiting for something big to happen, instead of enjoying a steady rhythm of action and development like the other books had.
Now, about the whole Summer King situation… yeah, that bothered me. If I’m being honest, I expected more from her Guards. They're older, more experienced, and have been around long enough to pick up on danger or sketchy behavior. So the fact that they didn’t notice how Guard after Guard was disappearing, without returning for weeks, just didn’t sit right with me. Add to that the warnings they got from the Spring Queen and everything they experienced in her court… they really should have been more suspicious and cautious. The fact that even Rose herself picked up on things being off before they did made it feel like the author intentionally made them blind to obvious red flags just to move the plot forward, and I’m not a fan of that kind of choice.
Some of the sex scenes also felt like a bit much—especially during her heat. It was just too many one after another, and I found myself just wanting to move on to the next part of the story. Not all of them bothered me though—some were actually really hot. But that sex scene with Drystan’s head in her hands? While his body was separated from it? On top of a horse?? That was just a little too freaky for me. Definitely not my cup of tea.
I did enjoy how Rose came across as more confident in this book. Not as much as I’d hoped for—she still slips into the damsel-in-distress role a little too often for someone who’s supposed to be the most powerful being out there—but it’s progress. I have a feeling the next book will be the real turning point for her, especially now that she only has Caed by her side to help get her Guards back. She still has a lot to learn and room to grow, particularly when it comes to mastering Danu’s power, but she’s clearly on her way.
And speaking of growth, I absolutely loved how Bree’s trauma is being handled. The author didn’t just “fix” him out of nowhere with a magical bond or a snap of the fingers. She’s taking the time to show his healing process—how he’s slowly, gradually reclaiming his life and learning to be touched again, little by little. That kind of care and attention to character development is something I really appreciate.
Another highlight was how well-defined Rose’s mates continue to be. Each one has his own unique struggles, backstory, and personality. They're not just copy-pasted “hot guys” with different hair colors—they're individuals. Lore brings that fun, crazy, unhinged energy; Drystan is the dominant, protective one; Jare brings softness and devotion; and Bree is gentle, steady, and supportive. Each of them offers something different to Rose and to the relationship, and I love that. It’s something rare to find in reverse harem books, where too often the guys feel like one person split into several bodies.
In the end, it was still a fun and enjoyable book. It had its exciting parts that made me fly through the pages, and it definitely kept me curious about what’s coming next. But it also had its lows, with some slow sections and a few plot choices that made me roll my eyes a bit—especially the whole Summer Court situation blindness issue. Still, I’m looking forward to the next book, and I hope it brings all the strength, growth, and fire I know Rose has in her.
Main characters: Rhoswyn, Jaromir/Jare, Drystan, Caedmon/Caed, Lorcan/Lore, Bricriu/Bree and Wraith (her companion/puppy).
Tropes: chosen one, fated mates, grumpy and sunshine, moraly grey, reverse harem, slow burn, touch her and die.
Supernatural types: they're all fae, but with different powers. Rhoswyn - necromancy and charm, Jare - shifter, Drystan - rare kind of fae that loses his head and hunt the dead to the afterlife, Caedmon - half fae, half fomorian, Lorcan - redcap - he has a magic hat that eats blood and has the storage of Hermione purse, Bree - kind of a shifter too, but with a bunch of magic animals that come out of his tattoos (among other things).
December 17, 2025
I’m writing one review for the entire series now that I’ve finished it. Overall, I really enjoyed it. It was creative, kept me interested, and was action packed. I will admit though by the end I was ready for it to wrap up. That’s the challenge with any series that carries on over so many books though.
I particularly liked that each of the mmc had distinctly different personalities. When you have a RH, way too often they blend together and become interchangeable. That was definitely not the case here. And the Red Hat was ridiculously entertaining- I highly recommend the audiobook for the full effect. At first I thought he was going to be too OTT, but he quickly became a favorite character and kept me cracking up. On the other hand, some of the other characters managed to hurt my heart a bit with their back story as well as what they go through during the series. There’s surprisingly a lot of emotional highs and lows.
My only gripe, if you will, is the lack of growth in the fmc Rose. In the beginning, she is understandably naive and clueless. She is thrust into this completely new world and essentially told she is in charge of ruling and saving this kingdom… and oh yeah, it’s under attack, so figure it out fast. Also, surprise! You’re not even human and magic is real!
So yeah, the cluelessness and overwhelm fit initially. She was constantly on the verge of tears. Frankly the female narrator (who was amazing overall) frustrated me with the constant trembling voice, so near tears all the time 🙄. I’m not sure if that was a narrator choice or the author choice, but it grated on my nerves. Moving on.
Over five books, each male showed great growth. Each came from vastly different backgrounds with polar opposite beliefs and biases. They came together as sworn protectors and mates to the queen and had to learn to accept new ideas and each other. They moved past lifelong trauma and beliefs and customs, and each grew so much. The only one who was essentially the same at the very end was Rose. Quite literally the only time she made any decisions or showed any strength was when she was channeling the goddess, yet she whined about others making decisions for her. When she stood up to the leaders that tried to push back against her, she was still channeling the goddess. Anytime she put the smack down, it was with the strength of someone else. She was basically a vessel to channel the power of the goddess or her three guardians, and later the power she learned to borrow from her mates. It was disappointing that she didn’t show the growth the men did and learn to be fierce on her own.
Anyway- overall I loved the series. I’d still recommend it. Listen to the audio. It’s definitely worth it.
I particularly liked that each of the mmc had distinctly different personalities. When you have a RH, way too often they blend together and become interchangeable. That was definitely not the case here. And the Red Hat was ridiculously entertaining- I highly recommend the audiobook for the full effect. At first I thought he was going to be too OTT, but he quickly became a favorite character and kept me cracking up. On the other hand, some of the other characters managed to hurt my heart a bit with their back story as well as what they go through during the series. There’s surprisingly a lot of emotional highs and lows.
My only gripe, if you will, is the lack of growth in the fmc Rose. In the beginning, she is understandably naive and clueless. She is thrust into this completely new world and essentially told she is in charge of ruling and saving this kingdom… and oh yeah, it’s under attack, so figure it out fast. Also, surprise! You’re not even human and magic is real!
So yeah, the cluelessness and overwhelm fit initially. She was constantly on the verge of tears. Frankly the female narrator (who was amazing overall) frustrated me with the constant trembling voice, so near tears all the time 🙄. I’m not sure if that was a narrator choice or the author choice, but it grated on my nerves. Moving on.
Over five books, each male showed great growth. Each came from vastly different backgrounds with polar opposite beliefs and biases. They came together as sworn protectors and mates to the queen and had to learn to accept new ideas and each other. They moved past lifelong trauma and beliefs and customs, and each grew so much. The only one who was essentially the same at the very end was Rose. Quite literally the only time she made any decisions or showed any strength was when she was channeling the goddess, yet she whined about others making decisions for her. When she stood up to the leaders that tried to push back against her, she was still channeling the goddess. Anytime she put the smack down, it was with the strength of someone else. She was basically a vessel to channel the power of the goddess or her three guardians, and later the power she learned to borrow from her mates. It was disappointing that she didn’t show the growth the men did and learn to be fierce on her own.
Anyway- overall I loved the series. I’d still recommend it. Listen to the audio. It’s definitely worth it.
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