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The Fair Isle Trilogy #2
To Wear a Fae Crown
Every young woman dreams of wearing a crown.
But never a fae crown.
Because the crowns of fae are forged with blood. Being the forced bride of a fae king was supposed to be torture. King Aspen was supposed to be my enemy. But I was wrong about him. So wrong I think I might be in love with him. With our wedding just three days away, we are closer than ever to securing the treaty between the humans and fae. But when my past becomes grounds for invalidating our alliance, war looms yet again. I’m the only one who can save the Fair Isle. To do so, I must give up the man I love. Return to the human realm. Face death. I swore I’d do anything to save my people. But who are my people? The answer should be easy. The humans. There’s just one problem. I might not be human after all… To Wear a Fae Crown is a romantic fantasy, perfect for fans of The Cruel Prince, ACOTAR, and Kingdom of the Wicked . If you like snarky fae, brooding royals, sizzling romance, and fierce heroines, you'll love this breathtaking fae fantasy. * This series is Upper YA/NA and contains sexual situations, moderate steam, and some violence. To Wear a Fae Crown is the second book in The Fair Isle Trilogy . Finish this epic fantasy tale with book three, To Spark a Fae War ! The Fair Isle Trilogy is set in the same world as the Entangled with Fae series and takes place twenty years earlier.
But never a fae crown.
Because the crowns of fae are forged with blood. Being the forced bride of a fae king was supposed to be torture. King Aspen was supposed to be my enemy. But I was wrong about him. So wrong I think I might be in love with him. With our wedding just three days away, we are closer than ever to securing the treaty between the humans and fae. But when my past becomes grounds for invalidating our alliance, war looms yet again. I’m the only one who can save the Fair Isle. To do so, I must give up the man I love. Return to the human realm. Face death. I swore I’d do anything to save my people. But who are my people? The answer should be easy. The humans. There’s just one problem. I might not be human after all… To Wear a Fae Crown is a romantic fantasy, perfect for fans of The Cruel Prince, ACOTAR, and Kingdom of the Wicked . If you like snarky fae, brooding royals, sizzling romance, and fierce heroines, you'll love this breathtaking fae fantasy. * This series is Upper YA/NA and contains sexual situations, moderate steam, and some violence. To Wear a Fae Crown is the second book in The Fair Isle Trilogy . Finish this epic fantasy tale with book three, To Spark a Fae War ! The Fair Isle Trilogy is set in the same world as the Entangled with Fae series and takes place twenty years earlier.
364 pages, Paperback
First published August 31, 2020
963 people are currently reading
6402 people want to read
About the author
Tessonja Odette
32 books3,569 followersTessonja Odette is a Seattle-based author of fantasy romance, epic romantasy, and fairytale retellings. Her different series range from cozy fae romcoms to dark and twisty fantasy. In her books you’ll find witty banter, sizzling romance, and breathtaking magic. When she isn’t writing, she’s watching anime, squeezing her pets, or dancing to the music only she can hear.
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November 8, 2024
✅ Plot
✅ Faes and magic
✅ Pace
✅ Characters (especially one new character)
✅ Politics
✅(🆗) Romance
🆗 Final confrontation
We are back in the Fair Isle, where Evelyn just learned that despite everything she and Aspen did, the treaty is about to get broken, and even her marriage to Aspen is no longer enough to fulfill it. The only way to save the treaty is for Aspen to take a new bride and cast Evie aside. Even more shocking, rumors say that Evie has fae blood, and because of that, her mother has been imprisoned and is awaiting her trial. With the peace between humans and faes at stake, Evie doesn't even have the time to mourn her lost relationship with Aspen as she tries to save her mother and herself from execution, and her sister from Cobalt and his scheming, while also doing her best to prevent a war and stay alive (because of course people want to kill her on top of everything that's already happening to her).
With the revelation that she might not be entirely human, her family's life on the line, and a war on the brink of happening, Evie's life gets even more complicated than it was. I mentioned in my review of the first book that it was too predictable, well this one was not. I had no idea who were allies and who were enemies, I had no idea what would happen to Evie's mom and sister, and I had no idea if, how, and when Aspen and Evie would get back together... It was a wild ride at times, with a good pace, action, politics, and a few twists.
Because of everything that happens, Evie goes through some interesting character development at last! It took her a while to get there, but I think it was worth the wait. I do hope that she will continue to grow and be open-minded though, and that she will not forget to listen and trust her allies, because she can be impulsive and reckless at times.
I also have to say that despised some of the humans in Evie's village so much! But it's the good kind of hate, if that makes sense, the kind that makes you want to see the evil guys burn and suffer, but it means the author did a good job in writing them and developing the plot. I just can't wait for them to finally get what they deserve. I also can't wait for Evie to show them how much of a badass she can be and make them regret the day they decided to cross her... Of course, it probably won't happen since she is trying to find a peaceful way to solve their problem (for now at least), but it would be very satisfying if it did happen.
The politics between the courts continue to be an important part of the series, as Cobalt is still trying to get his brother’s throne, and some monarchs from other courts also have their agenda, and not all of them want to see the treaty held or to see Evie and Aspen get married, so it made it hard to know who they could trust, and who was playing them.
Prince Franco is probably one of the best things about this second book. He is, of course, dashing and handsome, and his banter and teasing with Evie is awesome. I hope that he will be present and have an important role in the next book. I also now know that there is a whole book about him that takes place after the series I think, so I will read that one for sure once I'm done with my reread this series.
The romance is angstier in this sequel, because of the whole “your marriage to Evie is not enough to fulfill the treaty anymore so you need to marry someone else”. But at the same time, it’s not as central to the plot as it is in the first book. To Carve a Fae Heart focuses mostly on Aspen and Evie’s relationship, while this second book focuses more on Evie’s growth and development. There is still romance of course, and while things are weird between Aspen and her and there is some angst, there are also cute moments, but her relationship with Aspen is not the priority in Evie’s life anymore (even though she still loves him), which makes sense considering everything that is happening in her life.
I feel that Lorelei and Foxglove were underappreciated in the first book, and that’s on me. I like the friendship that developed between Lorelei and Evie, and how loyal they have become toward each other. I also really like that even though he serves Aspen, Foxglove is willing to go against some of his orders if it means helping Evie or being honest with her. He likes her and respects her enough to give her that honesty and loyalty.
Nyxia, Franco's sister and queen of the Lunar court is also a great addition to the cast and I love how mysterious she remained until the end. I was not sure if she really wanted to help Evie or if she only wanted to further her agenda, probably more of the second, but it worked out well for Evie. Her tense interactions with Lorelei were also quite funny to read about, and I want more of them in the next book... I wouldn’t be opposed to them getting back together.
Overall, it was a better book than the first one. I recommend this series if you are looking for faes, twists and betrayals, and a mix of Cruel Prince, Red Queen, and ACOTAR vibes.
0.5 To Rule a Fae Throne ⭐⭐⭐
1. To Carve a Fae Heart ⭐⭐⭐.5
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✅ Faes and magic
✅ Pace
✅ Characters (especially one new character)
✅ Politics
✅(🆗) Romance
🆗 Final confrontation
“I don’t know what to do,” I say, surprised at the heat in my tone. “I need to save my mother, the treaty, and the fates of two races. Oh, and if there’s time, I’d like to save my life too. To do so, I’ll have to bargain with a council that hates me, defeat a fae king who hates me more, and once that’s all taken care of, I’ll have to help the rebellion win a civil war. For the love of iron, how the hell am I to accomplish all this?”
We are back in the Fair Isle, where Evelyn just learned that despite everything she and Aspen did, the treaty is about to get broken, and even her marriage to Aspen is no longer enough to fulfill it. The only way to save the treaty is for Aspen to take a new bride and cast Evie aside. Even more shocking, rumors say that Evie has fae blood, and because of that, her mother has been imprisoned and is awaiting her trial. With the peace between humans and faes at stake, Evie doesn't even have the time to mourn her lost relationship with Aspen as she tries to save her mother and herself from execution, and her sister from Cobalt and his scheming, while also doing her best to prevent a war and stay alive (because of course people want to kill her on top of everything that's already happening to her).
“I don’t want a crown forged from blood.”
“All crowns are forged from blood.”
With the revelation that she might not be entirely human, her family's life on the line, and a war on the brink of happening, Evie's life gets even more complicated than it was. I mentioned in my review of the first book that it was too predictable, well this one was not. I had no idea who were allies and who were enemies, I had no idea what would happen to Evie's mom and sister, and I had no idea if, how, and when Aspen and Evie would get back together... It was a wild ride at times, with a good pace, action, politics, and a few twists.
Because of everything that happens, Evie goes through some interesting character development at last! It took her a while to get there, but I think it was worth the wait. I do hope that she will continue to grow and be open-minded though, and that she will not forget to listen and trust her allies, because she can be impulsive and reckless at times.
I also have to say that despised some of the humans in Evie's village so much! But it's the good kind of hate, if that makes sense, the kind that makes you want to see the evil guys burn and suffer, but it means the author did a good job in writing them and developing the plot. I just can't wait for them to finally get what they deserve. I also can't wait for Evie to show them how much of a badass she can be and make them regret the day they decided to cross her... Of course, it probably won't happen since she is trying to find a peaceful way to solve their problem (for now at least), but it would be very satisfying if it did happen.
“He’s all but taken over my court. Half my soldiers think they serve him, and that wretched human pet of his struts around in her selkie skin like she’s the Queen of the Sea.”
I narrow my eyes. “That wretched human is my sister.”
She meets my gaze with a glower. “Then you know just how wretched she is.”
The politics between the courts continue to be an important part of the series, as Cobalt is still trying to get his brother’s throne, and some monarchs from other courts also have their agenda, and not all of them want to see the treaty held or to see Evie and Aspen get married, so it made it hard to know who they could trust, and who was playing them.
“Prince Franco at your service. And you are?”
“Evelyn,” I mutter through pursed lips.
“Evelyn. Is that your true—”
“Don’t even start.” With a scowl, I rush after Lorelei.
Prince Franco matches my pace, eyes burning into me. “I like you.”
“Excuse me?”
He smiles, revealing the tips of elongated canines. A vampire. “You smell like violence. That’s my preferred vintage.”
“Let me give you an intermission from your worries. I promise I’ll be less of an ass. I’ll even show you Selene Palace’s finest feature.”
I roll my eyes. “Don’t you dare say it’s your ass.”
His eyes widen as he gives me an approving grin. “I can’t believe I didn’t think of that myself. We’re going to get along just fine.”
Prince Franco is probably one of the best things about this second book. He is, of course, dashing and handsome, and his banter and teasing with Evie is awesome. I hope that he will be present and have an important role in the next book. I also now know that there is a whole book about him that takes place after the series I think, so I will read that one for sure once I'm done with my reread this series.
“Nothing? Is that really what you think we amount to?”
No, we’re so much more than nothing. You are so much more. “Yes.”
The romance is angstier in this sequel, because of the whole “your marriage to Evie is not enough to fulfill the treaty anymore so you need to marry someone else”. But at the same time, it’s not as central to the plot as it is in the first book. To Carve a Fae Heart focuses mostly on Aspen and Evie’s relationship, while this second book focuses more on Evie’s growth and development. There is still romance of course, and while things are weird between Aspen and her and there is some angst, there are also cute moments, but her relationship with Aspen is not the priority in Evie’s life anymore (even though she still loves him), which makes sense considering everything that is happening in her life.
“You’re more than just a human. You’re my queen. You may not wear the crown and you may never hold the position, but until Aspen forces me to kneel before another female in your place, I will serve you.”
I feel that Lorelei and Foxglove were underappreciated in the first book, and that’s on me. I like the friendship that developed between Lorelei and Evie, and how loyal they have become toward each other. I also really like that even though he serves Aspen, Foxglove is willing to go against some of his orders if it means helping Evie or being honest with her. He likes her and respects her enough to give her that honesty and loyalty.
“If I recall, you were the one who ended things with me.”
Lorelei grinds her teeth. “And if I recall, you cheated on me. With seventeen other fae. At once.”
Nyxia, Franco's sister and queen of the Lunar court is also a great addition to the cast and I love how mysterious she remained until the end. I was not sure if she really wanted to help Evie or if she only wanted to further her agenda, probably more of the second, but it worked out well for Evie. Her tense interactions with Lorelei were also quite funny to read about, and I want more of them in the next book... I wouldn’t be opposed to them getting back together.
Overall, it was a better book than the first one. I recommend this series if you are looking for faes, twists and betrayals, and a mix of Cruel Prince, Red Queen, and ACOTAR vibes.
0.5 To Rule a Fae Throne ⭐⭐⭐
1. To Carve a Fae Heart ⭐⭐⭐.5
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February 21, 2022
Genre: Fantasy, romance
Tropes: war, the chosen one, humans and fae, love triangle
Series: The Fair Isle Trilogy #2
Cliffhanger: Yes
Rating: 4.75 ⭐
Spice: 0.5/5 🌶
“When you’re ready to take a side, let me know. A crown awaits.”
“I don’t want a crown forged from blood.”
“All crowns are forged from blood.”
AMAZING! I'm telling you, it's simply amazing.
Welcome back to the world of The Fair Isle, where Evelyn was left with the shocking news that the treaty is in danger as her and Aspen’s union is no longer an option. Realizing you want someone only to find out you can't really have them anymore can't be fun. Especially when the lives of both humans and Fae are at stake.
“I don’t know what to do,” I say, surprised at the heat in my tone. “I need to save my mother, the treaty, and the fates of two races. Oh, and if there’s time, I’d like to save my life too."
》》The Plot《《
Everything has changed for Evie. Again. With news that she's not entirely human, her mother accused of treason, her sister still missing, a civil war on the brink of happening between the fae and a treaty that's about to be nullified, her life takes a new turn. A turn which not only takes her back to her homelands where she uncovers truths about her heritage and the common history of the two races, but it also pushes her to seek refuge in the Lunar Court ( where we get new awesome characters AND I CAN'T STRESS THIS ENOUGH but we love Nyxia and Franco) and accept her future and her destiny. Sounds to me like the ingredients for a good as hell book. And the ending? Cliffhanger. Again. *deep internal angst and a heated need to see how it all ends, while also fearing the ending*
"Our allies are not those who look like us but those who dream of the same world."
》》Characters《《
Apart from great plot, with quick paced action and wonderful dialog, I absolutely loved another few things about this second book. And I have to start with Prince Franco.
"Prince Franco matches my pace, eyes burning into me. “I like you.”
“Excuse me?”
He smiles, revealing the tips of elongated canines. A vampire. “You smell like violence. That’s my preferred vintage.”
We are blessed with another illegally handsome fae with snarky comments and a predilection for banter, teasing and scandalous situations. Tessonja Odette, have mercy of my heart and quit overwhelming it with these precious characters, or it might burst! And his relationship with Evie? Precious!
“Let me give you an intermission from your worries. I promise I’ll be less of an ass. I’ll even show you Selene Palace’s finest feature.”
I roll my eyes. “Don’t you dare say it’s your ass.”
His eyes widen as he gives me an approving grin. “I can’t believe I didn’t think of that myself. We’re going to get along just fine.”
Another golden star here is obviously Nyxia, with her schienming, her constant love-hate relationship with Lorelei and her entire Court. I loved it soooo much and I definitely enjoyed every scene. A real shout-out for all the strong female characters who do as they please and take bullshit from no one.
“If I recall, you were the one who ended things with me.”
Lorelei grinds her teeth. “And if I recall, you cheated on me. With seventeen other fae. At once.”
The friendship between Lorelei and Evelyn, the new attempt of a love triangle, Foxglove, my little favourite cinnamonrolls Aspen and Evie, plot twists, rulers being challenged, murdered, overthrown, made and unmade, love declarations, fae bargains and name offerings... honestly, you get it all and it's a cocktail of delights. Totally worth it. Totally recommend it. Totally needs more hype.
"War will come. It’s already here.
I sparked it. I’ll fight it. And I’ll end it."
The Fair Isle Trilogy
0.5 To Rule A Fae Throne - 3.75 ⭐
1 To Carve a Fae Heart - 4.75 ⭐
2 To Wear a Fae Crown - 4.75 ⭐
2.5 To Kill a Fae King - 3.5 ⭐
3 To Spark a Fae War - 4.5 ⭐
Tropes: war, the chosen one, humans and fae, love triangle
Series: The Fair Isle Trilogy #2
Cliffhanger: Yes
Rating: 4.75 ⭐
Spice: 0.5/5 🌶
“When you’re ready to take a side, let me know. A crown awaits.”
“I don’t want a crown forged from blood.”
“All crowns are forged from blood.”
AMAZING! I'm telling you, it's simply amazing.
Welcome back to the world of The Fair Isle, where Evelyn was left with the shocking news that the treaty is in danger as her and Aspen’s union is no longer an option. Realizing you want someone only to find out you can't really have them anymore can't be fun. Especially when the lives of both humans and Fae are at stake.
“I don’t know what to do,” I say, surprised at the heat in my tone. “I need to save my mother, the treaty, and the fates of two races. Oh, and if there’s time, I’d like to save my life too."
》》The Plot《《
Everything has changed for Evie. Again. With news that she's not entirely human, her mother accused of treason, her sister still missing, a civil war on the brink of happening between the fae and a treaty that's about to be nullified, her life takes a new turn. A turn which not only takes her back to her homelands where she uncovers truths about her heritage and the common history of the two races, but it also pushes her to seek refuge in the Lunar Court ( where we get new awesome characters AND I CAN'T STRESS THIS ENOUGH but we love Nyxia and Franco) and accept her future and her destiny. Sounds to me like the ingredients for a good as hell book. And the ending? Cliffhanger. Again. *deep internal angst and a heated need to see how it all ends, while also fearing the ending*
"Our allies are not those who look like us but those who dream of the same world."
》》Characters《《
Apart from great plot, with quick paced action and wonderful dialog, I absolutely loved another few things about this second book. And I have to start with Prince Franco.
"Prince Franco matches my pace, eyes burning into me. “I like you.”
“Excuse me?”
He smiles, revealing the tips of elongated canines. A vampire. “You smell like violence. That’s my preferred vintage.”
We are blessed with another illegally handsome fae with snarky comments and a predilection for banter, teasing and scandalous situations. Tessonja Odette, have mercy of my heart and quit overwhelming it with these precious characters, or it might burst! And his relationship with Evie? Precious!
“Let me give you an intermission from your worries. I promise I’ll be less of an ass. I’ll even show you Selene Palace’s finest feature.”
I roll my eyes. “Don’t you dare say it’s your ass.”
His eyes widen as he gives me an approving grin. “I can’t believe I didn’t think of that myself. We’re going to get along just fine.”
Another golden star here is obviously Nyxia, with her schienming, her constant love-hate relationship with Lorelei and her entire Court. I loved it soooo much and I definitely enjoyed every scene. A real shout-out for all the strong female characters who do as they please and take bullshit from no one.
“If I recall, you were the one who ended things with me.”
Lorelei grinds her teeth. “And if I recall, you cheated on me. With seventeen other fae. At once.”
The friendship between Lorelei and Evelyn, the new attempt of a love triangle, Foxglove, my little favourite cinnamonrolls Aspen and Evie, plot twists, rulers being challenged, murdered, overthrown, made and unmade, love declarations, fae bargains and name offerings... honestly, you get it all and it's a cocktail of delights. Totally worth it. Totally recommend it. Totally needs more hype.
"War will come. It’s already here.
I sparked it. I’ll fight it. And I’ll end it."
The Fair Isle Trilogy
0.5 To Rule A Fae Throne - 3.75 ⭐
1 To Carve a Fae Heart - 4.75 ⭐
2 To Wear a Fae Crown - 4.75 ⭐
2.5 To Kill a Fae King - 3.5 ⭐
3 To Spark a Fae War - 4.5 ⭐
August 30, 2023
Rating: 3/5 This is the second book in the Fair Isle Trilogy. Like the first book, this had an intriguing premise and engaging characters. I had some issues with pacing and a couple narrative choices made in the first two acts. However, I thought the third act was strong and does a great job setting up for the finale.
Book Details:
Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Young Adult
Narration Type: 1st Person POV (Evelyn)
Steam: 2/5
Tropes: Slow Burn, Fated Mates
Reading Age: 14+
Trigger warnings: death, abuse, mental illness
I think this book being told in first person POV holds it back a bit. The story has gotten so much bigger than Evie at this point. The major characters are scattered all over the Fair Isle. I wanted insight into their states of mind, feelings, and plans. I have always preferred multi-POV over single-POV though.
As much as I liked Evelyn in the first book I struggled to understand her in this one. Where was the intelligent, logical woman from that book?? She's confronted with possible fae parentage and told fae cannot survive off the Fair Isle. She doesn't once suspect the fae parent to be her mom despite the fact that her mom believes in magic, refuses to leave the Fair Isle, and she runs an apothecary. Really?
Evie's need to be self-sacrificing and her holier than thou attitude towards preserving the treaty were the opposite of the logic she prides herself on. It took her way too long to come to the conclusion everyone else around her had that the treaty was beyond saving. Thankfully, Evie does improve substantially in the third act of the book and I like where she is at going into book 3.
I did expect more romance in this one. I needed more than a single fade to black romance scene! Evie and Aspen are bonded mates when this book begins. How they manage to spend the first 40% of this book physically separated and the next 40% of it totally out of sync with each other is...disappointing? Especially how strong their bond has shown itself to be. Evie already had enough conflict to deal with without having to bring all the unnecessary drama into their relationship. JUST LET HIM LOVE YOU, EVIE.
On to the next one, baby. Let’s see how this trilogy wraps up.
Prior Reviews in Series:
To Rule a Fae Throne - Review (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️)
To Carve a Fae Heart - Review (⭐️⭐️⭐️)
Book Details:
Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Young Adult
Narration Type: 1st Person POV (Evelyn)
Steam: 2/5
Tropes: Slow Burn, Fated Mates
Reading Age: 14+
Trigger warnings: death, abuse, mental illness
I think this book being told in first person POV holds it back a bit. The story has gotten so much bigger than Evie at this point. The major characters are scattered all over the Fair Isle. I wanted insight into their states of mind, feelings, and plans. I have always preferred multi-POV over single-POV though.
As much as I liked Evelyn in the first book I struggled to understand her in this one. Where was the intelligent, logical woman from that book?? She's confronted with possible fae parentage and told fae cannot survive off the Fair Isle. She doesn't once suspect the fae parent to be her mom despite the fact that her mom believes in magic, refuses to leave the Fair Isle, and she runs an apothecary. Really?
Evie's need to be self-sacrificing and her holier than thou attitude towards preserving the treaty were the opposite of the logic she prides herself on. It took her way too long to come to the conclusion everyone else around her had that the treaty was beyond saving. Thankfully, Evie does improve substantially in the third act of the book and I like where she is at going into book 3.
I did expect more romance in this one. I needed more than a single fade to black romance scene! Evie and Aspen are bonded mates when this book begins. How they manage to spend the first 40% of this book physically separated and the next 40% of it totally out of sync with each other is...disappointing? Especially how strong their bond has shown itself to be. Evie already had enough conflict to deal with without having to bring all the unnecessary drama into their relationship. JUST LET HIM LOVE YOU, EVIE.
On to the next one, baby. Let’s see how this trilogy wraps up.
Prior Reviews in Series:
To Rule a Fae Throne - Review (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️)
To Carve a Fae Heart - Review (⭐️⭐️⭐️)
September 20, 2024
“I don’t want a crown forged from blood.”
“All crowns are forged from blood.”
rating: 3.75★
this book has the most political intrigue and machinations of this trilogy yet.
it was really fun to see franco and finally understand his referenced origins from his book, and i'm recognizing more and more references from the entangled with fae series. it's been a really interesting experience reading the world in a backwards progression towards its origin roots, but i'm glad i read it this way! i think it makes the easter eggs more fun.
while the scheming and action was amped up in this book, there were a few times when conversations referring to all the bargains and deals sometimes got a bit overwhelming and info dumpy but i still enjoyed it. also has a touch of angst and romance as well.
so far i would say this series is a touch darker than her others, more action, and more classically fantasy/fae based.
“All crowns are forged from blood.”
rating: 3.75★
this book has the most political intrigue and machinations of this trilogy yet.
it was really fun to see franco and finally understand his referenced origins from his book, and i'm recognizing more and more references from the entangled with fae series. it's been a really interesting experience reading the world in a backwards progression towards its origin roots, but i'm glad i read it this way! i think it makes the easter eggs more fun.
while the scheming and action was amped up in this book, there were a few times when conversations referring to all the bargains and deals sometimes got a bit overwhelming and info dumpy but i still enjoyed it. also has a touch of angst and romance as well.
so far i would say this series is a touch darker than her others, more action, and more classically fantasy/fae based.
March 8, 2023
*1.5
While the first book in the series showed some promise, this one fell flat for me. The plot was uneventful with very little happening. The characters felt one-dimensional and lacked depth, making it hard for me to connect with them or care about their fates. The writing itself was also lackluster, with repetitive descriptions and dialogue that felt stilted and forced. Even the supposed "romantic" moments felt contrived and unconvincing.
Frankly I haven't found it particularly enjoyable thus far, I still feel a strong desire to read the third book of the series. It may seem contradictory, but I genuinely feel this way. There is a certain curiosity within me that drives me to continue reading, despite my lack of enjoyment thus far. Perhaps I am hoping for a breakthrough in the plot, a character development that resonates with me, or simply a satisfying conclusion to the series. Regardless of the reason, I can confidently say that I am invested in the story and willing to give it another chance with the third book.
While the first book in the series showed some promise, this one fell flat for me. The plot was uneventful with very little happening. The characters felt one-dimensional and lacked depth, making it hard for me to connect with them or care about their fates. The writing itself was also lackluster, with repetitive descriptions and dialogue that felt stilted and forced. Even the supposed "romantic" moments felt contrived and unconvincing.
Frankly I haven't found it particularly enjoyable thus far, I still feel a strong desire to read the third book of the series. It may seem contradictory, but I genuinely feel this way. There is a certain curiosity within me that drives me to continue reading, despite my lack of enjoyment thus far. Perhaps I am hoping for a breakthrough in the plot, a character development that resonates with me, or simply a satisfying conclusion to the series. Regardless of the reason, I can confidently say that I am invested in the story and willing to give it another chance with the third book.
September 8, 2020
Tw/Cw provided in book: To Wear a Fae Crown is an upper YA/NA book intended for mature audiences. It contains sexual situations, moderate steam, violence, and gore. I add: allusions to torture, sexual assault, sex traffic, and body desecration.
Last book ended with the ominous fatidic cliffhanger “We’re going to war.” The same foreboding line picks up where we left off, but things are even more complicated than you probably imagined in To Carve a Fae Heart.
You see, Evelyn is accused of having fae blood which will render the treaty invalid, if she remains Aspen's Chosen. And all Evelyn's ever wanted since this mess started was to keep peace in the isle and protect her family, so obviously she's going right into martyrdom again. Evie, she's into saving lives:
“I’m going to help the injured,” I repeat, louder, slower, each word pointed as my eyes burn into his. “It’s what I’m trained to do.”
And I really like this about her. So... cue the angst.
This volume takes the reader into unexpected twists and turns, and oh does it go dark at a certain point! Humans really are the scum of the Earth. When I picked it up, I was not expecting any of this to happen. Odette does a really good job at keeping the reader surprised, at least I was at the tip of my toes, for the foes always seemed to have the upper hand (which isn't surprising, in a way, they've been playing this game longer).
Some scenes were absolutely chilling, and all I could do was curse the despicable evils and watch in horror, hoping for the best, mourning other victims and the implications of my findings. What other abuses of power have happened, what atrocities at the hands of these monsters? And they dare scorn the fae, especially the unseelie, for what they call "beastly ways". Both humans and radical seelie are too greedy and destructive in that typical human way. I've been so ready for the humans to leave the Isle since To Carve a Fae Heart. Even while Evelyn instilled a fear of the fae on the reader, I couldn't fault the fae for fighting for their land against these invaders. No one likes colonialism or prejudiced land robbers, who execute a pregnant woman for loving someone from another race. So leave, humans, go back to your mainland.
We get to know some characters better and meet new ones. We are disgusted by some, we are vindicated towards others and... if you're me, you come to like queen Nyxia and prince Franco. And there's kitsune!!! You heard it right, kitsune. Some of my favourite beings in fantasy, alongside gargoyles, who don't get enough appreciation.
This really isn't a YA fantasy. It actually shows there are many shades of grey between the black and white of wrong and right. Actually, even adult fantasies can be fastidious about how mcs kill nameless goons indiscriminately, but not the villain, because "they're not like them" and all that bs, and then then they do half-assed plot devices to get the villain dead, either by forcing the hero's hand or by some other spineless move. Well, I'm glad to announce: NOT HERE, no ma'am. It's been incredibly satisfying, keep it coming, Tessonja Odette, I say!
To put an end to my divagation, this book was a roller coaster of both emotions and events. Many times, the second book in a trilogy has that lukewarm quality of not being able to meet its predecessor (in this house, we call it the middle book curse), but this book was even better! Honestly, I only took 4 days because we've been deep cleaning and sorting things to get rid off - which I take forever at, since, untouched put away things ¡¡in boxes!! are still found out by dust, to which I'm highly allergic hahaha sneeze cough ha
Thank you to the author and Booksprout for providing me with an e-arc in exchange for an honest review!
Last book ended with the ominous fatidic cliffhanger “We’re going to war.” The same foreboding line picks up where we left off, but things are even more complicated than you probably imagined in To Carve a Fae Heart.
You see, Evelyn is accused of having fae blood which will render the treaty invalid, if she remains Aspen's Chosen. And all Evelyn's ever wanted since this mess started was to keep peace in the isle and protect her family, so obviously she's going right into martyrdom again. Evie, she's into saving lives:
“I’m going to help the injured,” I repeat, louder, slower, each word pointed as my eyes burn into his. “It’s what I’m trained to do.”
And I really like this about her. So... cue the angst.
This volume takes the reader into unexpected twists and turns, and oh does it go dark at a certain point! Humans really are the scum of the Earth. When I picked it up, I was not expecting any of this to happen. Odette does a really good job at keeping the reader surprised, at least I was at the tip of my toes, for the foes always seemed to have the upper hand (which isn't surprising, in a way, they've been playing this game longer).
Some scenes were absolutely chilling, and all I could do was curse the despicable evils and watch in horror, hoping for the best, mourning other victims and the implications of my findings. What other abuses of power have happened, what atrocities at the hands of these monsters? And they dare scorn the fae, especially the unseelie, for what they call "beastly ways". Both humans and radical seelie are too greedy and destructive in that typical human way. I've been so ready for the humans to leave the Isle since To Carve a Fae Heart. Even while Evelyn instilled a fear of the fae on the reader, I couldn't fault the fae for fighting for their land against these invaders. No one likes colonialism or prejudiced land robbers, who execute a pregnant woman for loving someone from another race. So leave, humans, go back to your mainland.
We get to know some characters better and meet new ones. We are disgusted by some, we are vindicated towards others and... if you're me, you come to like queen Nyxia and prince Franco. And there's kitsune!!! You heard it right, kitsune. Some of my favourite beings in fantasy, alongside gargoyles, who don't get enough appreciation.
This really isn't a YA fantasy. It actually shows there are many shades of grey between the black and white of wrong and right. Actually, even adult fantasies can be fastidious about how mcs kill nameless goons indiscriminately, but not the villain, because "they're not like them" and all that bs, and then then they do half-assed plot devices to get the villain dead, either by forcing the hero's hand or by some other spineless move. Well, I'm glad to announce: NOT HERE, no ma'am. It's been incredibly satisfying, keep it coming, Tessonja Odette, I say!
To put an end to my divagation, this book was a roller coaster of both emotions and events. Many times, the second book in a trilogy has that lukewarm quality of not being able to meet its predecessor (in this house, we call it the middle book curse), but this book was even better! Honestly, I only took 4 days because we've been deep cleaning and sorting things to get rid off - which I take forever at, since, untouched put away things ¡¡in boxes!! are still found out by dust, to which I'm highly allergic hahaha sneeze cough ha
Thank you to the author and Booksprout for providing me with an e-arc in exchange for an honest review!
May 31, 2021
Ahhhhh I do love a good ending and a lot of plot twists
with a side of romance! What a very well written book that kept me intrigued from start to finish! I greedily read this book in two days and I’m planning to read the third the same way! Hehehe
with a side of romance! What a very well written book that kept me intrigued from start to finish! I greedily read this book in two days and I’m planning to read the third the same way! Hehehe
Read
June 11, 2022AUTHOR'S NOTE 1.) That's a wrap! Thanks to all my readers for an awesome release of To Wear a Fae Crown. This book was so much fun to write. A challenge, at times, as there was so much for my characters to grow through and many of them (especially Aspen) had to show sides of them they hadn't shown before. I'm so excited to share book three with you guys!
(The series is now complete!)
You can find To Carve a Fae Heart here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B087TDRH1T
To Wear a Fae Crown here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B088KQYN4W
To Spark a Fae War here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08GHCJFYX
Or the Complete Series Collection here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09753J8XS
AUTHOR'S NOTE 2.) The Fair Isle Trilogy books got major cover makeovers! I illustrated these new covers to better match my Entangled with Fae covers (which I also illustrate myself), which is important since these two series are related! The Fair Isle Trilogy is set 20 years before Entangled with Fae. And now the covers better express how these two series are connected! I hope you like them!
(The series is now complete!)
You can find To Carve a Fae Heart here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B087TDRH1T
To Wear a Fae Crown here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B088KQYN4W
To Spark a Fae War here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08GHCJFYX
Or the Complete Series Collection here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09753J8XS
AUTHOR'S NOTE 2.) The Fair Isle Trilogy books got major cover makeovers! I illustrated these new covers to better match my Entangled with Fae covers (which I also illustrate myself), which is important since these two series are related! The Fair Isle Trilogy is set 20 years before Entangled with Fae. And now the covers better express how these two series are connected! I hope you like them!
September 14, 2020
This was a better book than what I have been reading lately and that's not a compliment because what I've been reading has been crap. I enjoyed the first book , this one not so much. Nothing happens in this book, it was just a nice little filler for the next book. Her mother is arrested for deception and that's all the book is about, the MCs are apart most of the time and even when they are together they don't do anything.
I hope the next book changes things up.
I hope the next book changes things up.
September 3, 2021
"I need to save my mother, the treaty, and the fates of two races. Oh, and if there's time, I'd like to save my life too."
✅ More magic
✅ More plot twists
✅ More interesting characters
This book picks up right after book one so we haven't missed a thing. The human council's invalidation of Aspen and Evelyn's pairing throws their world into chaos and A LOT HAPPENS as a result. It's definitely a bit darker than the previous book but I honestly didn't think it was triggering.
To Wear a Fae Crown has none of the predictability of To Carve a Fae Heart - instead, you're CONSTANTLY wondering what will happen next. It was a fast-paced ride that had me gripped from the very start. Our MC really goes on a journey here and while it did lag a bit towards the end, I still consider it worthy of my 5 stars.
Evie undergoes some very interesting character development. She's fairly put through the mill and has to make a lot of difficult decisions. I found it a little frustrating waiting for her to get where I wanted her to be, but alas, that is life - and ultimately, she transforms.
We're also introduced to some great new characters! Prince Cobalt really caught my interest with is flirty banter - I'm definitely considering reading his book - and I wasn't complaining about seeing more of Queen Nyxia. WARNING though: it ends on another cliffhanger 😭 but luckily it's a completed series.
SPOILER AHEAD. It has been hidden with a spoiler tag but may not appear on mobile app.
One thing I really like about Evie is that she doesn't base her decisions solely around her love interest and she's not 100000000% commited to someone who she has only known for a matter of weeks. She has an independent streak that stands out compared to other MC's in this genre.
"No, I tell myself. I do not beg for love."
✅ More magic
✅ More plot twists
✅ More interesting characters
This book picks up right after book one so we haven't missed a thing. The human council's invalidation of Aspen and Evelyn's pairing throws their world into chaos and A LOT HAPPENS as a result. It's definitely a bit darker than the previous book but I honestly didn't think it was triggering.
To Wear a Fae Crown has none of the predictability of To Carve a Fae Heart - instead, you're CONSTANTLY wondering what will happen next. It was a fast-paced ride that had me gripped from the very start. Our MC really goes on a journey here and while it did lag a bit towards the end, I still consider it worthy of my 5 stars.
Evie undergoes some very interesting character development. She's fairly put through the mill and has to make a lot of difficult decisions. I found it a little frustrating waiting for her to get where I wanted her to be, but alas, that is life - and ultimately, she transforms.
We're also introduced to some great new characters! Prince Cobalt really caught my interest with is flirty banter - I'm definitely considering reading his book - and I wasn't complaining about seeing more of Queen Nyxia. WARNING though: it ends on another cliffhanger 😭 but luckily it's a completed series.
SPOILER AHEAD. It has been hidden with a spoiler tag but may not appear on mobile app.
One thing I really like about Evie is that she doesn't base her decisions solely around her love interest and she's not 100000000% commited to someone who she has only known for a matter of weeks. She has an independent streak that stands out compared to other MC's in this genre.
"No, I tell myself. I do not beg for love."
February 24, 2023
4⭐️
The beginning of this book was good, the middle kinda slow, but the end.. the end was amazing!
I think this series is gonna become one of my favorites. The only thing that is keeping it from being a 5⭐️ is the fact it had the miscommunication trope in it and I hate when the couples in books fight. Don’t get me wrong I know it’s realistic and it needs to happen sometimes but I’m reading a fantasy book, I don’t want things to be realistic….
The beginning of this book was good, the middle kinda slow, but the end.. the end was amazing!
I think this series is gonna become one of my favorites. The only thing that is keeping it from being a 5⭐️ is the fact it had the miscommunication trope in it and I hate when the couples in books fight. Don’t get me wrong I know it’s realistic and it needs to happen sometimes but I’m reading a fantasy book, I don’t want things to be realistic….
June 13, 2022
Not even sorry
January 15, 2022
True Score: 2.6
This book has a lot of drama and a lot of stuff going on and yet it felt like nothing of interest happened. Her mother died, that's about it aside from the Ustrin fight, but I just didn't give a toot. Evelyn really got on my nerves in this book. She wants to save everyone and isn't willing to compromise. She's a brat when she cannot get her way and is unwilling to think of how others around her feel when she puts herself in danger. But none of that matters because any time she does something stupid/dangerous or goes behind people's backs or lies she is always forgiven immediately. Or it turns out her way was best anyway. Also, what the heck is up with her and Aspen? They have nothing in common and so many of their issues could be solved with one simple conversation. The buildup between her and King Ustrin was unnecessary because she literally beats him within like 2 pages with her new magical fae powers (admittedly, her fox form sounds really cute tho). Why the heck did I read the first 250 pages for something that was solved so easily!? And is the whole "Briar House" brothel bullshit really necessary?
Overall, I'm invested in the series by now and the world IS really nicely done. I enjoy Tessonja's writing style and I like nearly every other character aside from Evelyn and Aspen (does he even have a personality?). It's just a shame the pacing seemed off and the main conflict of the book was solved so easily. I felt cheated at the end expecting some epic battle. Hopefully book three will improve.
This book has a lot of drama and a lot of stuff going on and yet it felt like nothing of interest happened. Her mother died, that's about it aside from the Ustrin fight, but I just didn't give a toot. Evelyn really got on my nerves in this book. She wants to save everyone and isn't willing to compromise. She's a brat when she cannot get her way and is unwilling to think of how others around her feel when she puts herself in danger. But none of that matters because any time she does something stupid/dangerous or goes behind people's backs or lies she is always forgiven immediately. Or it turns out her way was best anyway. Also, what the heck is up with her and Aspen? They have nothing in common and so many of their issues could be solved with one simple conversation. The buildup between her and King Ustrin was unnecessary because she literally beats him within like 2 pages with her new magical fae powers (admittedly, her fox form sounds really cute tho). Why the heck did I read the first 250 pages for something that was solved so easily!? And is the whole "Briar House" brothel bullshit really necessary?
Overall, I'm invested in the series by now and the world IS really nicely done. I enjoy Tessonja's writing style and I like nearly every other character aside from Evelyn and Aspen (does he even have a personality?). It's just a shame the pacing seemed off and the main conflict of the book was solved so easily. I felt cheated at the end expecting some epic battle. Hopefully book three will improve.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 15, 2025
2.5
Típico segundo libro de trilogía de fantasía. Igual que el primero de entretenido y los supuestos giros se ven desde el principio.
Nada nuevo.
Típico segundo libro de trilogía de fantasía. Igual que el primero de entretenido y los supuestos giros se ven desde el principio.
Nada nuevo.
February 5, 2023
I gotta admit It's been a while since a book has made me roll my eyes so many times during the few hours I was reading it. I was right about this story being a flaming dumpster fire alas one you can't stop looking at!
Even when I was super annoyed with the FL I couldn't, for the life of me, drop the book (trust me I tried a couple of times). So far the story is interesting enough to keep me engaged as a reader despite the dislike I have for Evelyn, our female lead.
Where do I even start with her?
*SPOILERS AHEAD*
🚩In the first book the overuse of her "surgeon's calm" line was annoying to the point of becoming funny: she's just an apprentice not even a licensed one let alone a surgeon.
🚩In the second book she became even more (Ik shocking) dense and insufferable! The girl was a liability to everyone's lifelong quest/plan and she did put the people around her in danger multiple times.
🚩Had a chronic case of 'Pick me' disorder and a constant nagging need to act on her insecurities and yet she turned up with sudden some typical "Chosen one" powers she disrespected and denied so much through the book.
🚩The love triangle was pointless and did nothing for the story.
🚩The original couple lacked everything it should've been!!!!! Aspen seemed way more into her than she ever was into him, he was most importantly loyal to her and didn't even break their engagement when he was expected to marry the other chosen, actually risked his throne for the sake of it and what was she doing? Kissing the other prince after partying to 'forget her problems for once' while poor Aspen had to witness that sick joke. Again NOPE!
🚩The love confession was a just cruel to her mate and to us readers tbh.. there was no love there no one can tell me otherwise, she was just too rational and calculating in regard to their relationship for me to be convinced of her feelings.
🚩🚩🚩Oh lest I forget the time she had sex with Aspen not even 24 hours after her mother was murdered before her own eyes; actually made me recoil and put the book down! Wtf was that? Really flabbergasted in reading that!
+Amelie sprouting out of nowhere seeking asylum or whatever penitence she asked for was a little too late for the show but oh well our heroine handled it well.. by being passive that is...
I'm convinced the story could do without Evie cause the world building got solid potential in it and the book was enjoyable for this reason.
I need to cool down and let go of my resentment towards Evie in order for me to continue to Book 3 so I guess I'll stay brewing in my ideas on how this story could've been so much better if the author took the right turn at some point.
Even when I was super annoyed with the FL I couldn't, for the life of me, drop the book (trust me I tried a couple of times). So far the story is interesting enough to keep me engaged as a reader despite the dislike I have for Evelyn, our female lead.
Where do I even start with her?
*SPOILERS AHEAD*
🚩In the first book the overuse of her "surgeon's calm" line was annoying to the point of becoming funny: she's just an apprentice not even a licensed one let alone a surgeon.
🚩In the second book she became even more (Ik shocking) dense and insufferable! The girl was a liability to everyone's lifelong quest/plan and she did put the people around her in danger multiple times.
🚩Had a chronic case of 'Pick me' disorder and a constant nagging need to act on her insecurities and yet she turned up with sudden some typical "Chosen one" powers she disrespected and denied so much through the book.
🚩The love triangle was pointless and did nothing for the story.
🚩The original couple lacked everything it should've been!!!!! Aspen seemed way more into her than she ever was into him, he was most importantly loyal to her and didn't even break their engagement when he was expected to marry the other chosen, actually risked his throne for the sake of it and what was she doing? Kissing the other prince after partying to 'forget her problems for once' while poor Aspen had to witness that sick joke. Again NOPE!
🚩The love confession was a just cruel to her mate and to us readers tbh.. there was no love there no one can tell me otherwise, she was just too rational and calculating in regard to their relationship for me to be convinced of her feelings.
🚩🚩🚩Oh lest I forget the time she had sex with Aspen not even 24 hours after her mother was murdered before her own eyes; actually made me recoil and put the book down! Wtf was that? Really flabbergasted in reading that!
+Amelie sprouting out of nowhere seeking asylum or whatever penitence she asked for was a little too late for the show but oh well our heroine handled it well.. by being passive that is...
I'm convinced the story could do without Evie cause the world building got solid potential in it and the book was enjoyable for this reason.
I need to cool down and let go of my resentment towards Evie in order for me to continue to Book 3 so I guess I'll stay brewing in my ideas on how this story could've been so much better if the author took the right turn at some point.
August 25, 2020
I’ve got this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This second book is amazing! I dare to say it is even better than the first one! I mean, duh.
I’ve read the first book a while ago, so it was a tiny bit confusing to get into the second book as I didn’t know what was the last thing that happened. But that feeling got away as quickly as it came! I loved that the other didn’t mention what happened in the last book, as some of the authors tend to do.
Might be a SPOILER!
I honestly thought that Evelyn and Aspen would not end up together. I mean I knew it for like 98%, but the author surprised me yet again! I thought I know how these Fae books work, but with Tessonja Odette one never knows!
This whole book for me was kind of like a roller coaster. For a few times I was up and thinking I know what is going to happen, but then it went down and changed my thoughts for so much better!
Once I had a feeling that it would be like in ACOTAR (A Court Of Thorns And Roses) and Evelyn will end up with Prince Franco. Which I wouldn’t say no to, but I wanted her to be with Aspen so bad!
This book for me was amazing! The writing style was perfect! The storyline was thought out and planned to the point! I don’t dare to say way ahead, but I think Tessonja Odette is pure talent!
This second book is amazing! I dare to say it is even better than the first one! I mean, duh.
I’ve read the first book a while ago, so it was a tiny bit confusing to get into the second book as I didn’t know what was the last thing that happened. But that feeling got away as quickly as it came! I loved that the other didn’t mention what happened in the last book, as some of the authors tend to do.
Might be a SPOILER!
I honestly thought that Evelyn and Aspen would not end up together. I mean I knew it for like 98%, but the author surprised me yet again! I thought I know how these Fae books work, but with Tessonja Odette one never knows!
This whole book for me was kind of like a roller coaster. For a few times I was up and thinking I know what is going to happen, but then it went down and changed my thoughts for so much better!
Once I had a feeling that it would be like in ACOTAR (A Court Of Thorns And Roses) and Evelyn will end up with Prince Franco. Which I wouldn’t say no to, but I wanted her to be with Aspen so bad!
This book for me was amazing! The writing style was perfect! The storyline was thought out and planned to the point! I don’t dare to say way ahead, but I think Tessonja Odette is pure talent!
April 21, 2023
The character growth in this was well written, the world was fleshed out more, and the romance was adorable. I was a bit annoyed with how Franco didn't show up near the end..as he's an amazing character (one of my favourite of the series.) Evelyn seemed to forget him!
September 2, 2020
Not quite 3 & 1/2 stars.
I don't know, this was really slow & hard to get into for the first maybe 30-50%, I actually thought about quitting altogether, but forced myself to continue. The book has a very heavy and emotionally draining vibe to it. It did pick up the pace & improve with the plot enough to finally get my interest. But I just felt bleh with the whole book when I finished it. I didn't feel a connection to the characters or between the characters, like I did in book 1. Evie was a little off putting in this book, to make me not like her. I thought for sure there was going to be a love triangle between Evie & Franco & Evie & Aspen. It felt way too reminiscent to another series with a similar plot at that point, but then it veered off loosing the triangle angle of the story. Disappointing, as I really liked Franco way more than Aspen. At this point, I'm not sure I'll read book 3, I guess I'll see when it comes out if I will or not.
I don't know, this was really slow & hard to get into for the first maybe 30-50%, I actually thought about quitting altogether, but forced myself to continue. The book has a very heavy and emotionally draining vibe to it. It did pick up the pace & improve with the plot enough to finally get my interest. But I just felt bleh with the whole book when I finished it. I didn't feel a connection to the characters or between the characters, like I did in book 1. Evie was a little off putting in this book, to make me not like her. I thought for sure there was going to be a love triangle between Evie & Franco & Evie & Aspen. It felt way too reminiscent to another series with a similar plot at that point, but then it veered off loosing the triangle angle of the story. Disappointing, as I really liked Franco way more than Aspen. At this point, I'm not sure I'll read book 3, I guess I'll see when it comes out if I will or not.
August 17, 2020
So I wrote this while I was reading so if it seems like an odd review that’s why. I wanted to convey my feelings as they were happening lol because this author tends to make me feel every word on the page so here goes:
I started this book feeling grief, true sadness that brought tears to eyes, then moved onto trepidation, fear, anxiety and now at 67% I feel hopeful annoyance. Annoyance at Evie annoyance at Aspen like get your acts together already. Are you a bad B or a fool. Ugh if she doesn’t grab his face and kiss him already I might die. The romantic tension is really getting to me and they both are making me sick in the best way. It’s exasperating and exhilarating because I know when it finally comes through it’s going to be explosive and EVERYTHING I’m just really over waiting for it 🤣 And now we’re back to tears. Lord Jesus this book is an emotional roller coaster y’all! I literally forgot to breathe there for a few pages 😩 and then finally a sigh of relief.... FINALLY y’all our girl gets it right!!! It took for-effing ever, but that is what made this part of the story so good. AND now for the show down, the action, whose really the baddest of them all........ Y’ALL OMG I cant believe what is happening! 💀💀💀After all of that just when you think you’ve run out of feels, this book has the most perfect moments for those of us who just love the mushy stuff. Totally swooning over here. Eating it up! And at the end the author just twists the knife one more time .......... save me because I’m dead.
This book had my emotions churning all the way to the very last page. It was really that great. I don’t think there is a single thing I could say bad or lacking. I just adored every bit. There were secrets, betrayal, action, intrigue, love, hope, fragility..... And our girl finally took a stand and it was epic.
May 28, 2022
Oh my goodness, I had NO idea where this book would take me after such a dreadful twist at the beginning of the story but I was happy to continue on the ride!
No 2nd book slump here, that's for sure!
No 2nd book slump here, that's for sure!
May 28, 2023
2 stelle!
Sfortunatamente questo libro ha perso l'unico elemento che mi aveva convinto nel volume precedente: l'intrattenimento.
La scrittrice cerca di ampliare il mondo e la storia, ma entrambi con risultati discreti. Portando ad un sacco di elementi che sembrano inseriti e risolti in veramente poco tempo.
Quello che mi aspettavo da questo romanzo era un approfondimento sulla coppia, in modo che potessi cominciare ad interessarmi a loro, ma invece abbiamo avuto altro dramma non necessario.
Da metà romanzo ho cominciato ad annoiarmi e la storia non mi interessava più. Non l'ho abbandonato solo perché dovendolo ascoltare mentre ci riflettevo l'ho finito.
Concluso devo ammettere che non mi interessa minimamente sapere come si concluderà la storia.
Sfortunatamente questo libro ha perso l'unico elemento che mi aveva convinto nel volume precedente: l'intrattenimento.
La scrittrice cerca di ampliare il mondo e la storia, ma entrambi con risultati discreti. Portando ad un sacco di elementi che sembrano inseriti e risolti in veramente poco tempo.
Quello che mi aspettavo da questo romanzo era un approfondimento sulla coppia, in modo che potessi cominciare ad interessarmi a loro, ma invece abbiamo avuto altro dramma non necessario.
Da metà romanzo ho cominciato ad annoiarmi e la storia non mi interessava più. Non l'ho abbandonato solo perché dovendolo ascoltare mentre ci riflettevo l'ho finito.
Concluso devo ammettere che non mi interessa minimamente sapere come si concluderà la storia.
August 22, 2020
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!
⚠️Spoilers for Book 1, “To Carve a Fae Heart”, in the Fair Isle Trilogy⚠️
Just amazing! I am shook! The first book in this trilogy was great, and this one was even better.
This book started with action, so I was instantly drawn into the story. This book was so entertaining, I didn’t want to stop reading. By the time I got 80% done, I considered just staying up to finish it, but I have an infant and a toddler, and sleep trumps most things, since sometimes it can be rare. But this book was so good that I didn’t want to stop reading, and the fact that I even considered staying up to finish it says a lot. At the halfway point, it’s almost impossible to put down.
Now let’s look at the characters. This is where some ⚠️spoilers⚠️ from the first book might get revealed so stop reading if you haven’t read book 1, then go get it, so you can read it!
The characters in this book displayed so much growth between the first book and now.
Evelyn, a.k.a Evie, has gone from not believing in magic, and always trying to use logic to explain things, to understanding that some things are beyond her explanation. She definitely is still very logical, and intellectual. She likes to still use logic to reach solutions instead of acting on her emotions, and I like that about her, but she has started to believe in magic. Evie also, has started to notice the evil ways of some humans that she always trusted, and has started to trust the Fae and fit in with them. This is such a drastic change from the first book where Evie hated the Fae. Evie still values life, but now she values both human and Fae lives. Evie is just beginning to come into her own, and become who she really is. I can’t wait to continue to watch her develop and grow in the last book.
Evie is the feminist heroine we need. She doesn’t apologize for her feelings or the decisions she makes. She even tells Aspen that they “are not each other’s property”, and she will not beg for forgiveness. Yes, Queen!
Now onto Aspen. Can we just talk about and appreciate that character growth? Aspen is so closed off, and even seems mean in the first book for the most part. He still has some walls up in this one, but we get to see him open up, and become much more vulnerable. He is caring, and kind. Seeing this side of him makes him much more likeable.
I enjoyed the growth of Aspen and Evie’s relationship in this book, as well. They seem to be developing a mature, adult relationship.
Now for the more secondary characters... I love that Lorelai got more time in this book. And I’m glad we got to see the Lunar Court, and more about Queen Nyxia. She is such a strong character and leader. Foxglove is great, as always. I love the LGBTQ+ representation in this book from these characters!
And, I can’t stop without praising Prince Franco. I always tend to like the secondary male characters more than the main male love interest, e.g. Lorcan, Azriel, Lucien, and this case isn’t any different. Prince Franco is amazing, charming, handsome, and likeable. I love this new character.
This book is amazing overall, and I highly recommend it.
⚠️Spoilers for Book 1, “To Carve a Fae Heart”, in the Fair Isle Trilogy⚠️
Just amazing! I am shook! The first book in this trilogy was great, and this one was even better.
This book started with action, so I was instantly drawn into the story. This book was so entertaining, I didn’t want to stop reading. By the time I got 80% done, I considered just staying up to finish it, but I have an infant and a toddler, and sleep trumps most things, since sometimes it can be rare. But this book was so good that I didn’t want to stop reading, and the fact that I even considered staying up to finish it says a lot. At the halfway point, it’s almost impossible to put down.
Now let’s look at the characters. This is where some ⚠️spoilers⚠️ from the first book might get revealed so stop reading if you haven’t read book 1, then go get it, so you can read it!
The characters in this book displayed so much growth between the first book and now.
Evelyn, a.k.a Evie, has gone from not believing in magic, and always trying to use logic to explain things, to understanding that some things are beyond her explanation. She definitely is still very logical, and intellectual. She likes to still use logic to reach solutions instead of acting on her emotions, and I like that about her, but she has started to believe in magic. Evie also, has started to notice the evil ways of some humans that she always trusted, and has started to trust the Fae and fit in with them. This is such a drastic change from the first book where Evie hated the Fae. Evie still values life, but now she values both human and Fae lives. Evie is just beginning to come into her own, and become who she really is. I can’t wait to continue to watch her develop and grow in the last book.
Evie is the feminist heroine we need. She doesn’t apologize for her feelings or the decisions she makes. She even tells Aspen that they “are not each other’s property”, and she will not beg for forgiveness. Yes, Queen!
Now onto Aspen. Can we just talk about and appreciate that character growth? Aspen is so closed off, and even seems mean in the first book for the most part. He still has some walls up in this one, but we get to see him open up, and become much more vulnerable. He is caring, and kind. Seeing this side of him makes him much more likeable.
I enjoyed the growth of Aspen and Evie’s relationship in this book, as well. They seem to be developing a mature, adult relationship.
Now for the more secondary characters... I love that Lorelai got more time in this book. And I’m glad we got to see the Lunar Court, and more about Queen Nyxia. She is such a strong character and leader. Foxglove is great, as always. I love the LGBTQ+ representation in this book from these characters!
And, I can’t stop without praising Prince Franco. I always tend to like the secondary male characters more than the main male love interest, e.g. Lorcan, Azriel, Lucien, and this case isn’t any different. Prince Franco is amazing, charming, handsome, and likeable. I love this new character.
This book is amazing overall, and I highly recommend it.
August 22, 2020
Ok settle in folks, welcome to OH THANK THE TREES I DIDN'T CRY.
You're prolly saying to yourself, why would she cry? Aren't Evie and Aspen MEANT for each other? Aren't they DESTINED despite all things?
You wouldn't be wrong, but as the second book of a trilogy involving a Fae asshole who stole the ability to lie, a selfish sister who thought nothing of betraying her younger sister*, conniving humans, and a world hellbent on UST for miles... let's just say I have a healthy sense of caution that perfectly reasonable things will drive a wedge in my happy couple.
Well sometimes happy.
Welcome back as Evie has to deal with not only the consequences of her sister's hand in almost overthrowing Aspen but also the human world's earth-shattering (possibly literally) announcement that Evie can't fulfill the Bride stipulations because she's only half human.
So to war! To war! Arm yourselves! Its to wa--oh wait Evie is gonna fight this? Can't see how it could be true? Doesn't really want to have to choose sides because frankly that kinda sucks? All right everyone, let's put away our weapons and--HOLY SMOKES THEY DID WHAT??
To war! To war! This time possibly for real!
On the one hand I appreciated the fact stakes were raised and the somewhat power imbalance between Evie and Aspen got some rectifying. On the other I was really hoping they'd smash Cobalt's face in until no one, not even his mother he betrayed for the funsies, would recognize him.
Don't get me wrong, I got my bloodthirsty-ness on QUITE splendidly, but not against COBALT and that saddened me.
The end sets up what will be a showdown now that certain people have certain cool abilities that will be a boon against certain traitorous scum family members.
I just really hope no one decided heroic sacrifice is the correct answer next book.
(*) Depending on how you feel about some revelations you may be like me and scoff at certain scenes at the end. Time will tell how much truth exists in this world
You're prolly saying to yourself, why would she cry? Aren't Evie and Aspen MEANT for each other? Aren't they DESTINED despite all things?
You wouldn't be wrong, but as the second book of a trilogy involving a Fae asshole who stole the ability to lie, a selfish sister who thought nothing of betraying her younger sister*, conniving humans, and a world hellbent on UST for miles... let's just say I have a healthy sense of caution that perfectly reasonable things will drive a wedge in my happy couple.
Well sometimes happy.
Welcome back as Evie has to deal with not only the consequences of her sister's hand in almost overthrowing Aspen but also the human world's earth-shattering (possibly literally) announcement that Evie can't fulfill the Bride stipulations because she's only half human.
So to war! To war! Arm yourselves! Its to wa--oh wait Evie is gonna fight this? Can't see how it could be true? Doesn't really want to have to choose sides because frankly that kinda sucks? All right everyone, let's put away our weapons and--HOLY SMOKES THEY DID WHAT??
To war! To war! This time possibly for real!
On the one hand I appreciated the fact stakes were raised and the somewhat power imbalance between Evie and Aspen got some rectifying. On the other I was really hoping they'd smash Cobalt's face in until no one, not even his mother he betrayed for the funsies, would recognize him.
Don't get me wrong, I got my bloodthirsty-ness on QUITE splendidly, but not against COBALT and that saddened me.
The end sets up what will be a showdown now that certain people have certain cool abilities that will be a boon against certain traitorous scum family members.
I just really hope no one decided heroic sacrifice is the correct answer next book.
(*) Depending on how you feel about some revelations you may be like me and scoff at certain scenes at the end. Time will tell how much truth exists in this world
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 29, 2022
After reading the first book and falling in love I was really excited to dive into the second book in the series. I have to admit, I'm a little sad that I read a novella in this world, which really spoils the ending and quite some events in this series, before reading these three novels. It takes a bit of the surprise away. However, the first book was really addictive and I was very positively surprised to meet Evie and her way of thinking and dealing with the world.
Where the first book was mostly about Evie slowly falling in love with Aspen, this book is about her fighting for her chance to stay with him while also making sure not to break the treaty. It's quite a political game that is being played here. A lot of players are added to the board and surprisingly enough quite a few of those players are human. It seems that there is a universal rule that people in power have to abuse that power.
And that basically means that our heroine has a lot of growing to do! And growing she does! I really love how Evie stays the kind of girl who fights for those she cares about and loves. If she can prevent a war that will certainly hurt countless of innocent people, she will do so. Even if she has to sacrifice her own happiness for it. However, she's also fierce, determined and not shying away from what has to be done when she has no other choice.
Along the way we're also seeing more from the Fae Court. The world is quite big in this story and in the first book we barely saw a fraction of it. Although there is still much more to explore in future books, I love how the world grew in this book. We met so many amazing Fae creatures, most of all unseelie since they're the most interesting in this series, and we learned so much about Fae customs and the differences between the courts.
I can't wait to read the finale and the spin-off!
Where the first book was mostly about Evie slowly falling in love with Aspen, this book is about her fighting for her chance to stay with him while also making sure not to break the treaty. It's quite a political game that is being played here. A lot of players are added to the board and surprisingly enough quite a few of those players are human. It seems that there is a universal rule that people in power have to abuse that power.
And that basically means that our heroine has a lot of growing to do! And growing she does! I really love how Evie stays the kind of girl who fights for those she cares about and loves. If she can prevent a war that will certainly hurt countless of innocent people, she will do so. Even if she has to sacrifice her own happiness for it. However, she's also fierce, determined and not shying away from what has to be done when she has no other choice.
Along the way we're also seeing more from the Fae Court. The world is quite big in this story and in the first book we barely saw a fraction of it. Although there is still much more to explore in future books, I love how the world grew in this book. We met so many amazing Fae creatures, most of all unseelie since they're the most interesting in this series, and we learned so much about Fae customs and the differences between the courts.
I can't wait to read the finale and the spin-off!
August 18, 2020
This story took me on a roller coaster ride of emotions and it was great! To Wear a Fae Crown picks up right where To Carve a Fae Heart left off. They got some bad news and now have to figure out what the heck they are going to do.
I honestly love how logical Evie tries to be in regards to magic and I really enjoy seeing her fight logic with what she is actually seeing. She grows so much in this book alone. Aspen is still mister broody king but he tries to do what he thinks is right by Evie. There is a ton of romantic tension throughout due to the circumstances they are forced in from book 1 and sometimes I wanted to go in the book and smack some sense into both of them. We get some new characters that add fun and drama to the story and I can't wait to read more. We also get more of a glimpse into life within Faerwyvae, specifically we get more of two of the courts.
The plot is fantastic and is well paced, there really isn't any moment that is slow which is great. I was so invested in the story that it was really hard to put the book down and that is thanks to a fantastic writer. I honestly don't have anything bad to say about this book or this series and I can't wait to read more!
Thank you to the author for providing me with an e-arc in exchange for an honest review
I honestly love how logical Evie tries to be in regards to magic and I really enjoy seeing her fight logic with what she is actually seeing. She grows so much in this book alone. Aspen is still mister broody king but he tries to do what he thinks is right by Evie. There is a ton of romantic tension throughout due to the circumstances they are forced in from book 1 and sometimes I wanted to go in the book and smack some sense into both of them. We get some new characters that add fun and drama to the story and I can't wait to read more. We also get more of a glimpse into life within Faerwyvae, specifically we get more of two of the courts.
The plot is fantastic and is well paced, there really isn't any moment that is slow which is great. I was so invested in the story that it was really hard to put the book down and that is thanks to a fantastic writer. I honestly don't have anything bad to say about this book or this series and I can't wait to read more!
Thank you to the author for providing me with an e-arc in exchange for an honest review
August 20, 2020
Oh my! What a wild ride this took me upon! My emotions were up and down and sideways. I am absolutely in love with Evie and Aspen and their inner circle. This is filled with surprising twists and jaw dropping moments. Evie must rise above her limitations time and again and each time she does, she astounds us all. She's brilliantly breathtaking in how she maneuvers around tricky situations. She's got the heart of a human and the #StrengthOfAQueen . The world building and storytelling are phenomenal. We keep learning new layers to this world and it's inner court and each new discovery is so very intriguing. The tender moments filled me with glee and the passionate ones made me want to stand up and cheer. I can't wait to see how Evie tackles the world next. This is every bit as intriguing and deliciously captivating as any SJM series. Readers need to take notice of Tessonja Odette, she's one marvelous writer who is going to blow your mind and inspire your imagination. This beautiful series has my heartstrings pulled tauntly.
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March 2, 2022this felt a little like a "villain" origin story and im living for it
BRING IT THE QUESTIONABLE ACTIONS EVIE
BRING IT THE QUESTIONABLE ACTIONS EVIE
August 10, 2023
Very much enjoying this series! I couldn't wait for my hold for the sequel to come in from the library, I had to get it from Audible the second I finished book 2
August 30, 2022
The thing about the first book in this series is that I wasn’t 100% convinced on Evelyn and Aspen’s relationship. It felt insta-lovey as they barely ever spoke, so there was no real basis for development in their relationship. If I’m being honest, most of the relationships in this series aren’t given any time or attention for development, besides the female friendships and sisterhood. Because of this, Book two’s set-up felt weak when it revolved a lot around Evelyn and Aspen.
That being said, I still really enjoy the magic and fantasy of the world Tessonja has created, and am happy to continue the series to find out how the story will end.
That being said, I still really enjoy the magic and fantasy of the world Tessonja has created, and am happy to continue the series to find out how the story will end.
February 20, 2023
Evie is so annoying but I love Foxglove, Lorelei, and Franco so it’s fine
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