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Broken Wings Duet #1
Aerie
A knight in disgrace…
Banished to the cold northern reaches for doing what was right, Lady Maddalena is a knight in exile. Now the reluctant warden of an isolated, snowy castle prison, Lena is determined to keep her head down and serve her two-year sentence. No surprises, no mistakes, and maybe she can salvage the tatters of her life.
A prince of no one…
Broken in body and spirit, Bel lost everything in a single night—his crown, his freedom, his brother. Kept captive in a mountain castle for ten years, Bel has played the human king’s game and bided his time. His chance for escape is coming, but he never planned on this new warden with a kind heart and sense of honor. All the humans have ever shown him is cruelty, but in Lena he finds something much more dangerous—a noble heart that calls to his own.
Their paths were never meant to cross…
As winter settles over their lonely mountain, the war between their people seems further away, and the boundaries between enemies begins to blur. A human knight and avian prince should have nothing between them but hate—yet neither can resist the attraction that grows in the dark of winter.
Their bond is fragile, forbidden, and doomed in the light of day. But for two broken souls, it may just be worth fighting for. If they are willing to pay the price…
Part 1 of the Broken Wings Duet. Part 2 coming December 2022.
This title contains strong language and intimate scenes and therefore is meant for readers 18+. Minor cliffhanger warning.
Banished to the cold northern reaches for doing what was right, Lady Maddalena is a knight in exile. Now the reluctant warden of an isolated, snowy castle prison, Lena is determined to keep her head down and serve her two-year sentence. No surprises, no mistakes, and maybe she can salvage the tatters of her life.
A prince of no one…
Broken in body and spirit, Bel lost everything in a single night—his crown, his freedom, his brother. Kept captive in a mountain castle for ten years, Bel has played the human king’s game and bided his time. His chance for escape is coming, but he never planned on this new warden with a kind heart and sense of honor. All the humans have ever shown him is cruelty, but in Lena he finds something much more dangerous—a noble heart that calls to his own.
Their paths were never meant to cross…
As winter settles over their lonely mountain, the war between their people seems further away, and the boundaries between enemies begins to blur. A human knight and avian prince should have nothing between them but hate—yet neither can resist the attraction that grows in the dark of winter.
Their bond is fragile, forbidden, and doomed in the light of day. But for two broken souls, it may just be worth fighting for. If they are willing to pay the price…
Part 1 of the Broken Wings Duet. Part 2 coming December 2022.
This title contains strong language and intimate scenes and therefore is meant for readers 18+. Minor cliffhanger warning.
447 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 14, 2020
310 people are currently reading
5474 people want to read
About the author
S.E. Wendel
22 books795 followersS.E. Wendel is a graduate of the MA Creative Writing program at the University of California, Davis. She loves maps, magic, and making epic fantasy worlds with romance thrown in. She has been writing fantasies since before she could even type (thankfully her mother was kind and patient enough to take dictation, but is relieved she can type for herself now)! From her first stories about raccoons hunting treasure on a haunted island to her latest sweeping epics, she loves to write strong heroines and noble heroes.
S.E. is a technical editor by day and in the evening loves to lose herself in her fantasy worlds and the stories of other amazing authors. She is currently working on the second part of the Broken Wings Duet. She loves her domineering orange tabby cat, true crime docs, tiramisu, pink nail polish, and swoony romantasies!
S.E. is a technical editor by day and in the evening loves to lose herself in her fantasy worlds and the stories of other amazing authors. She is currently working on the second part of the Broken Wings Duet. She loves her domineering orange tabby cat, true crime docs, tiramisu, pink nail polish, and swoony romantasies!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 240 reviews
February 22, 2023
Badass Lady Night & her wounded royal prisoner!!
And 5 stars for the traumatized warriors that stole my attention in the last few days with their dangerous quest. I was immersed in a world of political intrigue, a continuous merciless battle between kingdoms (humans x avians) and the best morally grey characters!
Aerie is the 1st installment in a promising Romantasy Duology that takes place in the Land of Vagora. Lady Maddalena Montcaer, who has been once Vagora's sword and a respected member of the King's most elite warriors, is now a disgraced Knight. She has been condemned by the king and banished to the cold northern castle to finish her two year sentence after attacking her own liege lord. Two years in exile spent training with her squire would be acceptable until she realizes the cruel fate stored for her. She must be the one who tortures the king's most prized prisoner and break him everyday.
The story is told from a dual POV giving each character so much depth and a wholesome insight of their thoughts. And believe me it's such a treat when the male character is SO swoon worthy as Bel (I just wanna hug him😭).
Both Lena & Bel are great protagonists and have compelling character arcs. I loved Bel's dedication to his family and Lena's fierceness and dedication to her duty.
Author Wendel has created a rich world-building filled with histories, languages, war, kingdoms, and interesting paranormal creatures aka the avians.
In a nutshell; Aerie surprised me. I knew I would enjoy it reading the synopsis and seeing the gorgeous cover, but I never expected to become completely obsessed with it. This book was such a fun ride and full of so many great bookish tropes all woven into a very intricate plot full of scheming, betrayal, and love. If you're like me, constantly looking for a a good Fantasy Romance enemies to lovers tale with a slow-burn yet steamy romance, then check out this one. Book 2 is already out so now you can binge read this completed Duology!
And 5 stars for the traumatized warriors that stole my attention in the last few days with their dangerous quest. I was immersed in a world of political intrigue, a continuous merciless battle between kingdoms (humans x avians) and the best morally grey characters!
Aerie is the 1st installment in a promising Romantasy Duology that takes place in the Land of Vagora. Lady Maddalena Montcaer, who has been once Vagora's sword and a respected member of the King's most elite warriors, is now a disgraced Knight. She has been condemned by the king and banished to the cold northern castle to finish her two year sentence after attacking her own liege lord. Two years in exile spent training with her squire would be acceptable until she realizes the cruel fate stored for her. She must be the one who tortures the king's most prized prisoner and break him everyday.
The story is told from a dual POV giving each character so much depth and a wholesome insight of their thoughts. And believe me it's such a treat when the male character is SO swoon worthy as Bel (I just wanna hug him😭).
Both Lena & Bel are great protagonists and have compelling character arcs. I loved Bel's dedication to his family and Lena's fierceness and dedication to her duty.
Author Wendel has created a rich world-building filled with histories, languages, war, kingdoms, and interesting paranormal creatures aka the avians.
In a nutshell; Aerie surprised me. I knew I would enjoy it reading the synopsis and seeing the gorgeous cover, but I never expected to become completely obsessed with it. This book was such a fun ride and full of so many great bookish tropes all woven into a very intricate plot full of scheming, betrayal, and love. If you're like me, constantly looking for a a good Fantasy Romance enemies to lovers tale with a slow-burn yet steamy romance, then check out this one. Book 2 is already out so now you can binge read this completed Duology!
March 14, 2024
I really enjoyed AERIE even though it's a long read with a slow pace. The world that Wendel has created is interesting but at the heart of this book are the characters. Unlike a lot of fantasy that relies on world building, the action, and the plot to drive the story, AERIE relies on the characters, their motivations, and their emotions and I got deeply invested in Bel and Lena's story.
Both MCs were deeply lonely and felt out of place in their life, but stuck together on a wintery mountain they found a connection and a comfort in each other. I enjoyed watching them go from strangers to tentative friends to lovers and yes it does take a while to get there but I think the slower pace fits with the characters' personalities and circumstances. The spice is fairly low in AERIE but it is very sweet so I enjoyed those softer moments when they came up.
In addition to Bel and Lena, there are some excellent side characters and found family is definitely a big theme in the story. The ending is a soft cliffhanger and I'm looking forward to reading book 2 and seeing what happens next for Lena and Bel.
Content Warning: past torture; past death of a brother
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Favorite Quotes:
She screamed and screamed and screamed, and something inside Bel screamed with her. He recognized this beaten, feral part of Maddalena, this person stripped down to only survival. He saw her pale, tear-soaked face, and he saw someone he knew, someone whose soul cried out just as loudly as his own, for relief, for a chance.
- - - - -
She’d wait. Let him decide if and when this attraction between them would ever manifest. Let him come to see on his own that she wouldn’t be a burden but, if he wanted, would take some of the weight.
Both MCs were deeply lonely and felt out of place in their life, but stuck together on a wintery mountain they found a connection and a comfort in each other. I enjoyed watching them go from strangers to tentative friends to lovers and yes it does take a while to get there but I think the slower pace fits with the characters' personalities and circumstances. The spice is fairly low in AERIE but it is very sweet so I enjoyed those softer moments when they came up.
In addition to Bel and Lena, there are some excellent side characters and found family is definitely a big theme in the story. The ending is a soft cliffhanger and I'm looking forward to reading book 2 and seeing what happens next for Lena and Bel.
Content Warning: past torture; past death of a brother
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Favorite Quotes:
She screamed and screamed and screamed, and something inside Bel screamed with her. He recognized this beaten, feral part of Maddalena, this person stripped down to only survival. He saw her pale, tear-soaked face, and he saw someone he knew, someone whose soul cried out just as loudly as his own, for relief, for a chance.
- - - - -
She’d wait. Let him decide if and when this attraction between them would ever manifest. Let him come to see on his own that she wouldn’t be a burden but, if he wanted, would take some of the weight.
March 24, 2025
3.5
“Everyone gets scared sometimes. Even kings. Especially kings. There’s so much…”
Me ha encantado. Iba con las expectativas un poco bajas, al mismo tiempo que me pensaba que sería un libro bastante ligero. Sin embargo, me equivoqué completamente.
“Sometimes all you can do is put your head down and get through it”.
La historia en general no es nada nuevo. Podríamos nominarlo como un Romeo y Julieta fantástico. El wordbuilding también falta un poco más de profundidad, pero lo que de verdad destaca son los personajes.
Me he encontrado con unos personajes que se van solidificando y evolucionando poco a poco y que ha llegado momento de sentirlos de verdad reales y sufrir con ellos.
“And don’t forget it. This is everything I hoped for you.”
“Everyone gets scared sometimes. Even kings. Especially kings. There’s so much…”
Me ha encantado. Iba con las expectativas un poco bajas, al mismo tiempo que me pensaba que sería un libro bastante ligero. Sin embargo, me equivoqué completamente.
“Sometimes all you can do is put your head down and get through it”.
La historia en general no es nada nuevo. Podríamos nominarlo como un Romeo y Julieta fantástico. El wordbuilding también falta un poco más de profundidad, pero lo que de verdad destaca son los personajes.
Me he encontrado con unos personajes que se van solidificando y evolucionando poco a poco y que ha llegado momento de sentirlos de verdad reales y sufrir con ellos.
“And don’t forget it. This is everything I hoped for you.”
December 5, 2022
Dear S.E Wendel,
I need the next book right now.
Thanks,
L
Plot Execution: 5/5
Characters: 5/5
Writing: 5/5
Worldbuilding: 4/5
Romance: 5/5
Spice Level: 🌶🌶
Diversity: 3/5
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
did-not-finish
December 18, 2024DNF at 78% just don’t care
August 10, 2023
My experience with this book:
I hope you're hungry...for nothing!
There was barely any plot progression at all! I know the romance is the main focus, but you can't have 470 pages with no plot! There weren't even that many scenes between Lena and Bel anyway!
Honestly, you could just skip reading this book and start book two, and you would have no problem following along, I imagine.
I enjoyed it at first, and thought it might be a new favourite. I liked the writing and I thought the set-up was great!
It started losing me when I found out more about Bel's situation - spoilers ahead, though, so don't read the rest of this if you're planning to pick up the book.
So yeah, this was a miss for me. Perhaps 2 stars isn't fair - it wasn't bad just a bit pointless in my opinion.
I hope you're hungry...for nothing!
There was barely any plot progression at all! I know the romance is the main focus, but you can't have 470 pages with no plot! There weren't even that many scenes between Lena and Bel anyway!
Honestly, you could just skip reading this book and start book two, and you would have no problem following along, I imagine.
I enjoyed it at first, and thought it might be a new favourite. I liked the writing and I thought the set-up was great!
It started losing me when I found out more about Bel's situation - spoilers ahead, though, so don't read the rest of this if you're planning to pick up the book.
So yeah, this was a miss for me. Perhaps 2 stars isn't fair - it wasn't bad just a bit pointless in my opinion.
January 28, 2023
He felt it, inside of himself, down in the very dregs of his gut and soul, something shift and shatter. It wrenched a gasp from his throat, squeezed tears from his eyes.
Bel wasn't cold anymore, but hot, too hot. He sobbed, felt the wet gush of tears coming, tasted the saltiness along his upper lip. He sobbed and sobbed and sobbed, and it hurt, oh it hurt, deep down there. It felt as if deep down wanted to come up, out of his mouth and eyes, the tears pulled from the very core of him, unstoppable.
His teeth bared. Everything was leaking out of him from everywhere. This is what it is to come apart. He was dissolving.
But hands were there, warm and dry, that smelled of yeast and bread and other warm things. They stroked over Bel's hair again. Then an arm cradled his head to the crook of an elbow, took the weight. Bel filled a fist with Pol's shirt, hanging on...
Excuse me as I get goddamned emotional all over again. This book... this book fucking wrecked me. Let's just get that out of the way right now. I don't even think I'll be able to adequately articulate everything this book made me feel, but I'm going to try.
Aerie is one of those rare, once in a blue moon kind of books that somehow manages to capture heavy emotions to damn near perfection. There's a soul-deep ache here that Sarah captures beautifully, first with Lena, and then with Bel - two emotionally bruised and battered souls, both prisoners, though in very different ways; both grappling with loneliness, betrayal, and abandonment by those who should have rallied to their defense from the start.
Which makes them finding kinship in each other - first as warden and prisoner, then as equals - so bloody beautiful to behold. Yes, it's that classic "finding healing and self-actualization in love" scenario, but aren't those kind of stories the best kind? And what makes it all the better is that these two aren't emotionally co-dependent or anything. They struggle and grow all on their own, but they're also catalysts for each other, and anchoring supports. It makes my heart ache just thinking about it.
I think something key to point out for prospective readers, though, is that this is a slow-burn romance - of the best kind, imho. I love a good slow-burn. It has enemies-to-lovers/forbidden romance vibes, which I am 1000% here for, but there's this indescribable something to Sarah's writing that just gets under the skin and burrows down deep. It kind of reminds me of really good poetry - the stuff that brands itself on your soul. That's what Aerie was for me.
Our FMC and MMC, Lena and Bel, are gloriously complex characters in their own right, but I also love how the supporting cast - specifically Pol and Alix - are just as vivid and distinct. The interrelationships between all of the characters is exquisite, the world-building (even if most of the book takes place in a single isolated location) is excellent, and the tension of first the slow-burn romance and then the conflict that rears its ugly head just as things start becoming idyllic... suffice it to say, this book hurts so good, I don't even know how to describe it. I just know I cried way too much, and now my head hurts, and I also need the next book ASAP.
Speaking of the secondary characters - I have to give a special shoutout to Lena's squire, Alix. That girl is a scene thief in the best sense, and her devotion and love for Lena made my heart hurt more than once. Everyone deserves someone in their life that's like Alix. That girl is a treasure.
There is a cliffhanger at the end of this book (which, dude - rude), but its more of an HFN cliffy, so I can live with it. I am definitely salivating for Haven now, however. I need to know how this ends. I need Bel to finally know true freedom that isn't constantly threatened by a bunch of bigoted, genocidal assholes, and for Lena to be recognized by the world at large as the honorable BAMF that she is.
TL;DR - this story is fantastic. I absolutely loved it. 11/10 recommend. Now someone put Haven in my hands immediately before I lose my mind! lol
Alix stared up at Lena for a long moment, face so childlike but fierce even in the dark... "You think I care about becoming a knight?... Well, I don't give two shits about becoming a knight. Never have and never will... It was a good offer. Came with learning to fight, free food, clean clothes. Get off the streets... But I didn't take it because of that, either. Plenty of fucks who'll give kids like me that kind of thing, for a price. But not you. You didn't want to use me. You wanted to help. You cared...
"I don't care about being a knight. Not one of them ever stopped to help me or any other kid like me. Not one knight stood up to Balderak or the other rich fucks who abuse their power. But you did. I don't give a fuck about being a knight, but I sure as seven hells give a fuck about you. So if you say you're going north, then I'm going too. If you say you're going to cross the eastern ocean to pull out mermaid hair, then that's where I'm going too. And if you're going to Highclere to marry the prince just to piss off the fucking king, then I sure as hells am going with you... I don't care about pledging myself to king and country, but I promise - where you go, I'll go; I'll watch your back and defend you 'til the end. You're my friend, Lena, and I protect my friends."
Tropes & Things of Note:
- Subtle Beauty and the Beast vibes (yes please, and thank you)
- LGBTQ rep and Deaf/hearing impairment + sign-language rep, both of which are excellent
- Prisoner/Guard trope (its enemies-to-lovers, but without the vitriolic hate)
- Spice, but its more on the mild side and very tastefully done
- TW for referred physical abuse and on-page emotional abuse, incl. subsequent trauma responses
- TW for depictions of depression (shit gets really heavy at times, so practice self care!)
January 30, 2023
Words can't express how much I needed this book this month. This has become a new favorite of mine. It has everything I enjoy in books. It's a dual POV between Lena and Bel. It gave the story so much depth since the plot is character driven. Some chapters jump back in time to tell a deeper story of the Lena and Bel. It's an enemies to lovers romance, but it's built on spark of respect and passion. The force proximity of them being warden and prisoner was done so well. I just ate it up. Bel has a broken spirit and soul. All Lena knows is discipline, honor and the knights code but it's is worth anything anymore. I would have made Lena's choice too. I felt this book in my soul, I am an emotional reader anyway.
And on a side note, the side characters are perfect. I highly recommend this book.
And on a side note, the side characters are perfect. I highly recommend this book.
December 14, 2023
Could have been better. My main issue was not with the plot or characters but with the storytelling itself. Pol is a deaf character, but it’s mistakenly written in chapter two that he is stirred by the sound of noise. There were also phrases/sentences that repeated in the same paragraph, and lines like “those were people liars”. Unfortunately these oversights kept bringing me out of the otherwise very interesting story.
March 13, 2023
This is a hard one to review for me. I really wanted to love it, it’s a new and interesting world, a great premise, and the main characters are likeable and their romance blossoms naturally. However, it was way too long, way too repetitive, and the pacing was way off. It could’ve easily been half as long and would make for a better read. I kept wanting to dnf despite being invested in the story
January 16, 2023
Talk about a delicious SLOW BURN holy moly y’all…THIS BOOK WAS SO GOOD.
Was it emotional? Heavens, it was the most emotional book I have read in a long time but man was it worth it.
I found myself intensely connecting with Lena, and maybe that’s bcuz me and her are similar in the fact that we just want to do what’s right, regardless of what others think. She was a badass but in a quiet beautiful way that I found a breath of fresh air!
Heavens tho yall…freaking Bel. That man…that Aerie…UGH. He was/is incredible and I adored him and his sad backstory and all his pain and scars and just the feelings.
Alix and Pol are also such great side characters and my goodness yall this book was just SO GOOD. I highly recommend for those that way a new, original fantasy world with fab characters and wonderful writing!
Warnings: some graphic abuse and some open door detailed sex scenes
Was it emotional? Heavens, it was the most emotional book I have read in a long time but man was it worth it.
I found myself intensely connecting with Lena, and maybe that’s bcuz me and her are similar in the fact that we just want to do what’s right, regardless of what others think. She was a badass but in a quiet beautiful way that I found a breath of fresh air!
Heavens tho yall…freaking Bel. That man…that Aerie…UGH. He was/is incredible and I adored him and his sad backstory and all his pain and scars and just the feelings.
Alix and Pol are also such great side characters and my goodness yall this book was just SO GOOD. I highly recommend for those that way a new, original fantasy world with fab characters and wonderful writing!
Warnings: some graphic abuse and some open door detailed sex scenes
dnf
May 7, 2023DNF @ 25%.
Y'all. PAGES without dialogue. I can't. There was no actual progression in plot, romance, characters, anything. Just repetitive inner monologues about the day to day at the castle.
UGH. I wanted to love this.
Moving on.
Y'all. PAGES without dialogue. I can't. There was no actual progression in plot, romance, characters, anything. Just repetitive inner monologues about the day to day at the castle.
UGH. I wanted to love this.
Moving on.
October 17, 2022
Dug it, but I'm crushed that the second book isn't out yet!
May 4, 2024
Not me devouring this author's entire collection. Of what I've read (and by now, it's all but one), this is easily the best written. This felt like a writer's book-child, something that had been floating around as a dreamy wish for years. Some of the sentences feel tenderly written.
What I'm learning I like best about this author is her refreshing dismissal of popular tropes. This story follows Lena, and she's a knight of two famous knights. She's skilled, she's been taught to do what's right, and her honor code is rigid. What I think most authors would do is make her a wise-cracking angry badass with plenty of scenes where she smacks down men with ham-fisted 4th wall commentary about female empowerment. Instead—wonderfully—she just is strong. She's clearly a match for any man she fights. She's intelligent and masterful with a sword and saves men as often as she needs help herself. And she's compassionate. Noble. She'll cry if her heart's moved and she'll fall in love without worrying that it makes her weak. I find that refreshing. I love that she didn't have to be cruel or play the "I'm not like the other girls" card to be characterized as strong. The author never screams these things to make a point; everything just happens, and you see proof rather than being spoon-fed Lessons.
The MMC is named Bel, and he's an "avian." Winged, essentially, and not an angel. Again, same thing as Lena re: the refreshing tropes. He's a prince, the brother of a dead king. He's been captured by humans and held as a prisoner for a decade. He has a cousin who took the throne and declared himself king after his brother died. You learn that and you immediately think he's a cocky, angry bundle of unfeeling misery. You think he's going to end up on the throne. You think he's got a plan to get revenge on humans. I won't confirm/deny any of what I just wrote for spoiler reasons, but it just doesn't go the way you'd expect.
As far as the downsides, I think some people may be turned off by the pacing. I loved it—give me ten thousand pages of characters just walking and talking in the woods and I'll be content; I'm so over the fast-paced mad dashes to a finish line—but there are some slower sections. And while I do think the writing is handedly better than the majority of fantasy romances I've found on KU, it's still a little...cheesy, maybe? when it comes to the romantic dialogue. Don't get me wrong: I deeply appreciated that the main couple were allowed to love each other before the last 10% of the series. I love that they were (once together) intensely devoted. I just wanted it to be delivered in a different way. Maybe more maturely? NOT that they acted like teenagers. It's hard to explain. Sometimes you get these sweepingly pretty descriptions of a feeling or a place...and sometimes you read a character saying, "Damn it all, ___!" and you go...I wish that didn't sound so clunky.
In the KU universe, this is quality. I'm 100% dedicated to supporting this Indie author now.
What I'm learning I like best about this author is her refreshing dismissal of popular tropes. This story follows Lena, and she's a knight of two famous knights. She's skilled, she's been taught to do what's right, and her honor code is rigid. What I think most authors would do is make her a wise-cracking angry badass with plenty of scenes where she smacks down men with ham-fisted 4th wall commentary about female empowerment. Instead—wonderfully—she just is strong. She's clearly a match for any man she fights. She's intelligent and masterful with a sword and saves men as often as she needs help herself. And she's compassionate. Noble. She'll cry if her heart's moved and she'll fall in love without worrying that it makes her weak. I find that refreshing. I love that she didn't have to be cruel or play the "I'm not like the other girls" card to be characterized as strong. The author never screams these things to make a point; everything just happens, and you see proof rather than being spoon-fed Lessons.
The MMC is named Bel, and he's an "avian." Winged, essentially, and not an angel. Again, same thing as Lena re: the refreshing tropes. He's a prince, the brother of a dead king. He's been captured by humans and held as a prisoner for a decade. He has a cousin who took the throne and declared himself king after his brother died. You learn that and you immediately think he's a cocky, angry bundle of unfeeling misery. You think he's going to end up on the throne. You think he's got a plan to get revenge on humans. I won't confirm/deny any of what I just wrote for spoiler reasons, but it just doesn't go the way you'd expect.
As far as the downsides, I think some people may be turned off by the pacing. I loved it—give me ten thousand pages of characters just walking and talking in the woods and I'll be content; I'm so over the fast-paced mad dashes to a finish line—but there are some slower sections. And while I do think the writing is handedly better than the majority of fantasy romances I've found on KU, it's still a little...cheesy, maybe? when it comes to the romantic dialogue. Don't get me wrong: I deeply appreciated that the main couple were allowed to love each other before the last 10% of the series. I love that they were (once together) intensely devoted. I just wanted it to be delivered in a different way. Maybe more maturely? NOT that they acted like teenagers. It's hard to explain. Sometimes you get these sweepingly pretty descriptions of a feeling or a place...and sometimes you read a character saying, "Damn it all, ___!" and you go...I wish that didn't sound so clunky.
In the KU universe, this is quality. I'm 100% dedicated to supporting this Indie author now.
October 24, 2025
ugh i really did love this at the start but it was overall too slow in pace and plot for me. the set up was beautifully unique and the writing was beautiful, but there just wasn't any action.
i feel like this was so much more character driven than i thought. don't get me wrong, i loved the relationships and the found family element and the romance was well developed, but it's like there were always hints of war, politics and plot on the edge but never really that relevant. even with the introduction of the price and the climax of the book, it was just... boring.
i actually loved the characters thought. alix and pol were my faves, and lena and bel were really well written. props to the author for not writing a carbon copy shadow mmc who broods and uses sarcasm as a coping mechanism. as much as i wasn't a fan of the book, bel was refreshing to read about.
i just feel like if you're writing a fantasy or even romantasy duology, you do have to lean into the actual plot or there's no stakes. like yes the romance is cute and all, and the friendships are funny, but the wider world exists too! this is what it felt like it was lacking.
long, overly descriptive chapters for flashbacks and incredibly long internal monologues were fun at the start, but they got old pretty quick. some of the flashbacks weren't even that relevant - i get that they established bel's past relationship with his family, but they went on for agesss.
anyway, such good potential but i don't think i will finish the series.
i feel like this was so much more character driven than i thought. don't get me wrong, i loved the relationships and the found family element and the romance was well developed, but it's like there were always hints of war, politics and plot on the edge but never really that relevant. even with the introduction of the price and the climax of the book, it was just... boring.
i actually loved the characters thought. alix and pol were my faves, and lena and bel were really well written. props to the author for not writing a carbon copy shadow mmc who broods and uses sarcasm as a coping mechanism. as much as i wasn't a fan of the book, bel was refreshing to read about.
i just feel like if you're writing a fantasy or even romantasy duology, you do have to lean into the actual plot or there's no stakes. like yes the romance is cute and all, and the friendships are funny, but the wider world exists too! this is what it felt like it was lacking.
long, overly descriptive chapters for flashbacks and incredibly long internal monologues were fun at the start, but they got old pretty quick. some of the flashbacks weren't even that relevant - i get that they established bel's past relationship with his family, but they went on for agesss.
anyway, such good potential but i don't think i will finish the series.
October 18, 2023
— 3,5 Stars
May 30, 2023
Beautiful. Amazing. Such a romantic slow burn. Loved all the side characters! Bel x Lena 4ever.
May 16, 2025
Bell is the definition of smitten.
February 8, 2024
But actually 5373828663 ⭐'s
This book deserves SO much more hype.
Characters: both lead as sides, 10/10.
Worldbuilding 10/10.
Writing 1000000/10.
Character driven books >>>>>>
All the feels, all the love, so sad it's finished will continue to fangirl 4 ever. I need to experience Ashita BAD
This book deserves SO much more hype.
Characters: both lead as sides, 10/10.
Worldbuilding 10/10.
Writing 1000000/10.
Character driven books >>>>>>
All the feels, all the love, so sad it's finished will continue to fangirl 4 ever. I need to experience Ashita BAD
March 16, 2023
I really loved this book! First of all, the cover art is gorgeous and I loved being able to see the characters. Speaking of, the characters really shine in this story. Lena and Bel in particular are such complex characters but are good and pure in their hearts. They just want love and acceptance and their interactions and feelings towards each other are so tender and sweet. I'm interested to learn more about Alix. We've seen a little of her backstory and that she is protective and fiercely loyal. Her character is a nice contrast to the others who are perhaps more introspective, even if her personality is a little bit of a front. Pol is also amazing. I hope we get to see more of him in the next book. I can feel that the second book is going to be a Journey, I'm honestly scared lmao.
February 10, 2023
Aerie by S.E. Wendel is a magical fantasy romance filled with adventure, strong characters, and a slow-burn romance that will keep you turning the pages. I absolutely loved this book.
The world and the characters the author has created are so unique and beautifully written you can’t help but submerge yourself into Lena and Bels story. There wasn’t one dull moment and I loved how the chapters switched pov’s so we got to see deeper into both Lena and Bels character. Bel has the be one of my all-time favorite male characters now - he is just the perfect combination of everything you want in a fantasy novel.
The entire book is just fantastic from beginning to end. Giving off fairytale vibes this is such a cozy read set in an old castle at winter with winged slightly broody characters, a strong female lead, and lovable side characters. Aerie is an easy binge read book that will quickly make its way into your favorites. If you are looking for your next book obsession that you can curl up on the couch with a hot mug of tea and read late into the night then I definitively suggest you pick up this book immediately and fall in love with the world and characters. I cannot wait to get my hands on book two and continue on with the magical story!
The world and the characters the author has created are so unique and beautifully written you can’t help but submerge yourself into Lena and Bels story. There wasn’t one dull moment and I loved how the chapters switched pov’s so we got to see deeper into both Lena and Bels character. Bel has the be one of my all-time favorite male characters now - he is just the perfect combination of everything you want in a fantasy novel.
The entire book is just fantastic from beginning to end. Giving off fairytale vibes this is such a cozy read set in an old castle at winter with winged slightly broody characters, a strong female lead, and lovable side characters. Aerie is an easy binge read book that will quickly make its way into your favorites. If you are looking for your next book obsession that you can curl up on the couch with a hot mug of tea and read late into the night then I definitively suggest you pick up this book immediately and fall in love with the world and characters. I cannot wait to get my hands on book two and continue on with the magical story!
January 17, 2024
3.5 stars rounded down. Too long, but overall a fun time. I liked the ending enough to pick up book 2, I think, especially with this just being a duology.
I like the writing style of Wendel a lot. It’s not too quippy or jokey. But neither did it feel melodramatic. Great balanced tone for me.
I also enjoyed Bel and Lena as characters. Their personalities and motivations worked for me, and I was moved by some of their scenes near the end.
Problems I had:
1. Horrendously slow start. I picked this up because it’s a romantasy but it didn’t feel like one til close to halfway through. Then all of a sudden it’s nonstop attraction.
2. World building/lore issue. Why are the humans and avians at war? There’s something about gemstones mentioned, but it’s a gigantic blank for the most part.
3. Lena and Bel are remarkably cordial to each other given the war, and get over their status as enemies very quickly. I couldn’t make sense of this given all the reasons they have to hate each other. Lena has given years to the war and killed many avians (as far as I can tell), but neither she nor Bel have a problem with this…
Bel and Lena are sweet together, so I do kind of want to keep reading til they get their HEA. ☺️
I like the writing style of Wendel a lot. It’s not too quippy or jokey. But neither did it feel melodramatic. Great balanced tone for me.
I also enjoyed Bel and Lena as characters. Their personalities and motivations worked for me, and I was moved by some of their scenes near the end.
Problems I had:
1. Horrendously slow start. I picked this up because it’s a romantasy but it didn’t feel like one til close to halfway through. Then all of a sudden it’s nonstop attraction.
2. World building/lore issue. Why are the humans and avians at war? There’s something about gemstones mentioned, but it’s a gigantic blank for the most part.
3. Lena and Bel are remarkably cordial to each other given the war, and get over their status as enemies very quickly. I couldn’t make sense of this given all the reasons they have to hate each other. Lena has given years to the war and killed many avians (as far as I can tell), but neither she nor Bel have a problem with this…
Bel and Lena are sweet together, so I do kind of want to keep reading til they get their HEA. ☺️
January 28, 2023
This was a beautifully written romantasy with the perfect slow burn. Overall, the characters were great! I really enjoyed the chapters that took us back in time to get a better idea of what brought Bel and Lena to their present situations. I have to say Alix and Pol might be my favorites, though.
I thought the world building was done perfectly. Not too much to make it overwhelming but just enough for you to understand the plot and the concept of what makes everyone tick. The cliffhanger left you with just the right amount of anxiety, but I still can't wait for book 2 in the series!
I thought the world building was done perfectly. Not too much to make it overwhelming but just enough for you to understand the plot and the concept of what makes everyone tick. The cliffhanger left you with just the right amount of anxiety, but I still can't wait for book 2 in the series!
January 29, 2023
The world building in this book omg it was awesome. The details the author put into this book made you feel like you were there with the characters. There was nothing that was missed. I laughed with the people, cried with them, felt scared for them, and fell in love with them. They are not perfect cut out cardboard people and you can see them growing throughout the book. I have book hangover now and the only cure is going to book 2! I want to tell more details so bad but don’t want to spoil it so I will just say this is a must read!!! You will not be disappointed in the slightest.
December 28, 2023
DNF (66%)
I renewed my KU for this 💔
Hello, my 4th DNF of the month
❌️ So fxcking slow. Full of pages with fillers like thinking, cutting wood, etc. I don't need 4 to 5 pages of the MCs descending the stairs and whatnot.
❌️ The author describes everything in detail, even the most basic/mundane actions of a character. Diyos ko. Should've omitted those.
❌️ The first interesting that happened was after 190+ pages.
❌️ I stayed for the slow burn romance, but even that wasn't executed well.
I renewed my KU for this 💔
Hello, my 4th DNF of the month
❌️ So fxcking slow. Full of pages with fillers like thinking, cutting wood, etc. I don't need 4 to 5 pages of the MCs descending the stairs and whatnot.
❌️ The author describes everything in detail, even the most basic/mundane actions of a character. Diyos ko. Should've omitted those.
❌️ The first interesting that happened was after 190+ pages.
❌️ I stayed for the slow burn romance, but even that wasn't executed well.
December 31, 2020
Good but...
Cliffhanger warning! This is definitely a fantasy novel with a slow burn romance. Only one intimate scene that wasn’t super descriptive for those concerned with that. The book ends with many unanswered questions. If I’d known it was a cliffhanger I’d probably wait until the rest of the books come out as I hate waiting but if you don’t mind, give it a read.
Cliffhanger warning! This is definitely a fantasy novel with a slow burn romance. Only one intimate scene that wasn’t super descriptive for those concerned with that. The book ends with many unanswered questions. If I’d known it was a cliffhanger I’d probably wait until the rest of the books come out as I hate waiting but if you don’t mind, give it a read.
May 29, 2024
I liked this very much but there wasn’t a whole lot of plot??
There were moments where things happened but most of the time they were just chillin in the prison. There wasn’t an overarching plot or purpose to the story.
Still finished and enjoyed tho ✨ and will be reading the next book :)
There were moments where things happened but most of the time they were just chillin in the prison. There wasn’t an overarching plot or purpose to the story.
Still finished and enjoyed tho ✨ and will be reading the next book :)
June 6, 2024
DNF at 48%. I feel like I’ve been reading this forever and I’m only halfway through. I love a good slow burn but it needs some plot to keep things interesting. This had a lot of telling and not a lot of showing.
September 2, 2022
I loved the strong female characters in this and the romance! I can’t wait for the second book!
April 6, 2025
The slowest book I ever read with little droplets of semi-decent plot twists to keep you reading only to find out it’s all a waste of time.
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