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Kingdoms of Lore #1
Enchanting the Elven Mage
A human princess. An elven warrior. A marriage that might kill them both.
Today, Aury learned three things: One, she is the princess. Two, she might be a powerful mage. And three, a brutal mountain elf is on his way to the kingdom for their marriage.
Aury can’t escape her newly revealed royal parents quickly enough. If they think she is going to marry some vicious elven warrior mage, they have another thing coming. They claim she’s a mage too, but she has yet to prove it. She heads to the magic military order to get her rune-marked staff and learn everything she can. If she becomes the weapon they need instead of her not-if-she-can-help-it husband, they’ll send the mountain elf packing, right?
If they don’t, she will.
Filip is certain of three truths: One, he is bound to wed a stubborn mule of a princess. Two, the union will give his people the farmland they desperately need. Three, his nightmare of a bride has wild magic that will probably kill him before their wedding day.
But he will die before he gives up on winning her hand.
War is coming, and the first battle will be fought in the heart.
Inspired by Sleeping Beauty, Enchanting the Elven Mage is the first standalone book in the Kingdoms of Lore fantasy romance series and is perfect for fans of Naomi Novik and Holly Black.
Today, Aury learned three things: One, she is the princess. Two, she might be a powerful mage. And three, a brutal mountain elf is on his way to the kingdom for their marriage.
Aury can’t escape her newly revealed royal parents quickly enough. If they think she is going to marry some vicious elven warrior mage, they have another thing coming. They claim she’s a mage too, but she has yet to prove it. She heads to the magic military order to get her rune-marked staff and learn everything she can. If she becomes the weapon they need instead of her not-if-she-can-help-it husband, they’ll send the mountain elf packing, right?
If they don’t, she will.
Filip is certain of three truths: One, he is bound to wed a stubborn mule of a princess. Two, the union will give his people the farmland they desperately need. Three, his nightmare of a bride has wild magic that will probably kill him before their wedding day.
But he will die before he gives up on winning her hand.
War is coming, and the first battle will be fought in the heart.
Inspired by Sleeping Beauty, Enchanting the Elven Mage is the first standalone book in the Kingdoms of Lore fantasy romance series and is perfect for fans of Naomi Novik and Holly Black.
458 pages, Paperback
First published January 14, 2021
1481 people are currently reading
6280 people want to read
About the author
Alisha Klapheke
51 books773 followersUSA Today Bestselling Author Alisha Klapheke strives to write fantasy romance inspired by history and informed by her travel worldwide.
*Get a Deluxe Collector's Edition of Dragons Rising with faux leather, sprayed edges, and gold foil today https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 323 reviews
dnf
May 4, 2022DNF 53%
Wouldn't say this book is bad per se (kinda liked the Sleeping Beauty retelling aspect) but the writing was a little to YA for me at this point in my reading journey. But if thats your jam then maybe consider this on KU?
I will however say, from what I read, that this book's pace is really fast and the story was speeding along pretty dang quick.
I felt like I didn't get a lot of time to really get to know the characters before were getting revelations, betrayals, life changing events, and assassination attempts one after the other with little time to breath.
But like I said- while I wasn't into some of the tropes- it does have secret backstories, magic, a curse, and an arranged marriage turned possible love match- with a looming war awaiting our mains. So if that sounds interesting then check it out on KU.
Wouldn't say this book is bad per se (kinda liked the Sleeping Beauty retelling aspect) but the writing was a little to YA for me at this point in my reading journey. But if thats your jam then maybe consider this on KU?
I will however say, from what I read, that this book's pace is really fast and the story was speeding along pretty dang quick.
I felt like I didn't get a lot of time to really get to know the characters before were getting revelations, betrayals, life changing events, and assassination attempts one after the other with little time to breath.
But like I said- while I wasn't into some of the tropes- it does have secret backstories, magic, a curse, and an arranged marriage turned possible love match- with a looming war awaiting our mains. So if that sounds interesting then check it out on KU.
February 2, 2021
I really tried to like this book but the main character was such a brat I just couldn’t get into it. She was rightfully upset with her parents for abandoning her to another court and letting her live the way she did - but man she was such a brat. Also I didn’t buy the whole she really wanted to become a princess after one conversation with another girl.
I liked Filip the love interest though - he was funny.
I liked Filip the love interest though - he was funny.
January 21, 2021
In Enchanting the Elven Mage, the sparks fly from page one as Aury, the tough and saucy water mage, finds out her parents bargained her away to marriage with a bloodthirsty elven prince. Prince Filip turns out to be as deadly as claimed, yet with a good heart and good looks that draw Aury despite herself. The stakes are high, the action fast-paced, and the romance steamy-sweet. Five stars all the way!
May 9, 2021
This was so disappointing. I guess this is what I get for reading this book solely because I love the cover so much. I mean look at it. It's so freaking pretty.
But Aury was awful. She doesn't even meet Filip before she's made up her mind that he's some sort of blood thirsty monster. She bases every thought and prejudice on rumors from the fae she grew up with. You know, the fae who abused and neglected her for her whole life? Because that makes sense right? She just overall rude to basically everybody when there's not really a reason for it. Unless she's being rude to her parents. Now they were truly awful. Even worse that Aury.
They abandon her to these fae who treat her poorly. Then they jump out to say 'surprise? You're our secret daughter and heir to the throne. And you're getting married' and then have the nerve to be upset that she's not down with any of that. They get all pissy that she's not an obedient princess, and it was so aggravating to read.
I liked Filip though. He's the only reason this is getting two stars instead of one
But Aury was awful. She doesn't even meet Filip before she's made up her mind that he's some sort of blood thirsty monster. She bases every thought and prejudice on rumors from the fae she grew up with. You know, the fae who abused and neglected her for her whole life? Because that makes sense right? She just overall rude to basically everybody when there's not really a reason for it. Unless she's being rude to her parents. Now they were truly awful. Even worse that Aury.
They abandon her to these fae who treat her poorly. Then they jump out to say 'surprise? You're our secret daughter and heir to the throne. And you're getting married' and then have the nerve to be upset that she's not down with any of that. They get all pissy that she's not an obedient princess, and it was so aggravating to read.
I liked Filip though. He's the only reason this is getting two stars instead of one
January 17, 2021
This was an excellent retelling of the Sleeping Beauty story. Filip and Aurora were both perfect as the author has taken us to a wonderfully knit world of fairies, magic and adventure. Enjoyed all the characters and their adventures.
Read
January 18, 2021At 40% I'm crying uncle. I really tried to push through, but I just don't care enough about any of the characters.
The heroine is very unlikable. I know she's had a hard life, but she's very rude, selfish, and immature. She has a very hard time listening to rules and lashes out at everyone. The hero is ok, but so is a cardboard cutout. I think the problem is the fact that we have no real insight to the heroine' supposedly terrible life. It was glossed over in one scene and then mentioned every once in a while. But that's it. So it was hard to empathize with her.
The heroine is very unlikable. I know she's had a hard life, but she's very rude, selfish, and immature. She has a very hard time listening to rules and lashes out at everyone. The hero is ok, but so is a cardboard cutout. I think the problem is the fact that we have no real insight to the heroine' supposedly terrible life. It was glossed over in one scene and then mentioned every once in a while. But that's it. So it was hard to empathize with her.
Want to read
July 25, 2021Whoa the cover! So beautiful! The cover reminds me of my all time favorite covers!!
So beautiful when fantasy covers aren't saturated with the boring been-there-done-that six pack!
And the synopsis is amazing.
Today, Aury learned three things: One, she is the princess. Two, she might be a powerful mage. And three, a brutal mountain elf is on his way to the kingdom for their marriage.
Aury can’t escape her newly revealed royal parents quickly enough. If they think she is going to marry some vicious elven warrior mage, they have another thing coming. They claim she’s a mage too, but she has yet to prove it. She heads to the magic military order to get her rune-marked staff and learn everything she can. If she becomes the weapon they need instead of her not-if-she-can-help-it husband, they’ll send the mountain elf packing, right?
If they don’t, she will.
Filip is certain of three truths: One, he is bound to wed a stubborn mule of a princess. Two, the union will give his people the farmland they desperately need. Three, his nightmare of a bride has wild magic that will probably kill him before their wedding day.
But he will die before he gives up on winning her hand.
War is coming, and the first battle will be fought in the heart.
Dear Klapheke sensei:
*takes a bow*
You literally had me at hello, just by looking at your cover I know I will love this.
So beautiful when fantasy covers aren't saturated with the boring been-there-done-that six pack!
And the synopsis is amazing.
Today, Aury learned three things: One, she is the princess. Two, she might be a powerful mage. And three, a brutal mountain elf is on his way to the kingdom for their marriage.
Aury can’t escape her newly revealed royal parents quickly enough. If they think she is going to marry some vicious elven warrior mage, they have another thing coming. They claim she’s a mage too, but she has yet to prove it. She heads to the magic military order to get her rune-marked staff and learn everything she can. If she becomes the weapon they need instead of her not-if-she-can-help-it husband, they’ll send the mountain elf packing, right?
If they don’t, she will.
Filip is certain of three truths: One, he is bound to wed a stubborn mule of a princess. Two, the union will give his people the farmland they desperately need. Three, his nightmare of a bride has wild magic that will probably kill him before their wedding day.
But he will die before he gives up on winning her hand.
War is coming, and the first battle will be fought in the heart.
Dear Klapheke sensei:
*takes a bow*
You literally had me at hello, just by looking at your cover I know I will love this.
Read
April 20, 2021Enjoyable fantasy romance in an epic fantasy setting! This might be my favourite of Alisha's books yet. The story is clearly somewhat inspired by Sleeping Beauty, but I was far more interested in the original plot elements: Aury discovers that she's actually a princess scheduled for an arranged marriage with a prince from a neighbouring kingdom, and sets out to become a powerful enough mage warrior to make her own life decisions - a process complicated by said prince's presence at the same military academy. I thoroughly enjoyed the wit, snark, and characters of this story.
November 8, 2021
I love this unique plot and fun twist on the classic Sleeping Beauty tale. We've got arranged marriages, hidden secrets, Fae, Elves, Mages, slow-burn romance, swoony heroes, political intrigue, war and more! (I mean, Filip is seriously dreamy.) I loved this story. The perfect escape.
sample
July 3, 2021Tried the sample and it was kinda meh and too YA for me, the characters are not fleshed out enough. However, the general setting and theme made me want to re-read The Winter King so I will be doing that instead now..
February 16, 2021
Arranged marriage. Princess wants to forge her own destiny and become a great water mage, but is forced to marry an elven prince. He's a decent fellow. They banter. They fall in love.
Overall, it's alright. It's a typical enough story, with the added twist of being a Sleeping Beauty retelling. There's the added bonus of aroace representation. What turned me off the most about this was the somewhat juvenile writing style and the protagonist's brattiness. There were also moments of second-hand embarrassment. A lot of the elements were so... generic western fantasy that I was bored. A lot of the conflicts were resolved really easily. The interesting part, which would've been the magic training, rushed on by without much exploration. The romance had no stakes, really, since you know exactly where the characters are going.
The title's a bit misleading, since the elf and the mage are two different characters, alas.
Overall, it's alright. It's a typical enough story, with the added twist of being a Sleeping Beauty retelling. There's the added bonus of aroace representation. What turned me off the most about this was the somewhat juvenile writing style and the protagonist's brattiness. There were also moments of second-hand embarrassment. A lot of the elements were so... generic western fantasy that I was bored. A lot of the conflicts were resolved really easily. The interesting part, which would've been the magic training, rushed on by without much exploration. The romance had no stakes, really, since you know exactly where the characters are going.
The title's a bit misleading, since the elf and the mage are two different characters, alas.
January 8, 2021
What a fantastic read! Klapheke never disappoints and this story just continues to prove that! If you’re looking for an escape from the chaos of the world with a steamy enemies to lovers romance, an endearing wine-loving heroine and sexy elven warrior, then this is the book for you! AND it’s a stand-alone, so there is none of the stress of waiting for the next book to come out 🖤
September 8, 2021
"I know you, I danced with you once upon a dream"
"Filip" is an amazing male lead and really there is nothing not to like about him. Funny,handsome and an incredible warrior with a soft heart for all beasts...as well as his beauty. His encouraging of Aury reminds me of Rhys from a Court of Thorn and Roses in that Rhys was helping her to be a stronger woman, a stronger her. Filip does that and we see it even when he is lying hurt, his thoughts are on helping her. ~swoon~
"Aury" was a little harder to warm up to. I felt compassion for her in the beginning and then she went pretty self centered to the point of just nastiness. As the story progressed she did grow and become better but I do not think I would have stuck with the story if Filip and the other characters were not so amazing. Her antics were funny at the beginning but her rudeness to Filip when all he ever did was be a gentlemen (I mean he had her favorite desert made for her ;o)..) I get there was a definite Pride and Prejudice feel to it..most of all the prejudice coming from Aury.. however even that couldn't stop the beauty of Filips singing, the kindness of his heart from reaching her...and thank goodness for that.
Any fan of Lynn Kurland or Amy Harmon will love this read
"Filip" is an amazing male lead and really there is nothing not to like about him. Funny,handsome and an incredible warrior with a soft heart for all beasts...as well as his beauty. His encouraging of Aury reminds me of Rhys from a Court of Thorn and Roses in that Rhys was helping her to be a stronger woman, a stronger her. Filip does that and we see it even when he is lying hurt, his thoughts are on helping her. ~swoon~
"Aury" was a little harder to warm up to. I felt compassion for her in the beginning and then she went pretty self centered to the point of just nastiness. As the story progressed she did grow and become better but I do not think I would have stuck with the story if Filip and the other characters were not so amazing. Her antics were funny at the beginning but her rudeness to Filip when all he ever did was be a gentlemen (I mean he had her favorite desert made for her ;o)..) I get there was a definite Pride and Prejudice feel to it..most of all the prejudice coming from Aury.. however even that couldn't stop the beauty of Filips singing, the kindness of his heart from reaching her...and thank goodness for that.
Any fan of Lynn Kurland or Amy Harmon will love this read
August 11, 2022
Exciting unique twist on Sleeping Beauty
A new twist on a fairy tale classic. I had a fantastic time reading it and finished it in 2 sittings.
Aury was raised as a half elf, with no knowledge she is actually human royalty. Not only do her real parents through that on her, they also inform her that she is betrothed to a mountain elf who are known for their vicious and savageness. Aury craves freedom. Freedom from the court, freedom to make her own decisions and she refuses to have a brutish elf dictate her future.
This was a fun and sweet slow burn YA fantasy. There was danger for Filipe and Aury from all sides and made the stakes that much higher. Enemies advancing and a curse from a powerful Matchmaker.
The world building was great and I enjoyed the differences in culture and language between the two POVs.
The characters and friendships were the standout for me. I read along with the ebook and audio and both narrators, Caitlin Kelly and Gary Furlong did an amazing job. Especially the accents for Filipe and his entourage. Filipe was my favourite.
Great read for romantacy fans that love a fresh and unique twist on classic fairy tales. I look forward to checking out the rest if the series of standalones set in the same world and following Prince Werian's story
A new twist on a fairy tale classic. I had a fantastic time reading it and finished it in 2 sittings.
Aury was raised as a half elf, with no knowledge she is actually human royalty. Not only do her real parents through that on her, they also inform her that she is betrothed to a mountain elf who are known for their vicious and savageness. Aury craves freedom. Freedom from the court, freedom to make her own decisions and she refuses to have a brutish elf dictate her future.
This was a fun and sweet slow burn YA fantasy. There was danger for Filipe and Aury from all sides and made the stakes that much higher. Enemies advancing and a curse from a powerful Matchmaker.
The world building was great and I enjoyed the differences in culture and language between the two POVs.
The characters and friendships were the standout for me. I read along with the ebook and audio and both narrators, Caitlin Kelly and Gary Furlong did an amazing job. Especially the accents for Filipe and his entourage. Filipe was my favourite.
Great read for romantacy fans that love a fresh and unique twist on classic fairy tales. I look forward to checking out the rest if the series of standalones set in the same world and following Prince Werian's story
January 18, 2021
This is an awesome sleeping beauty retelling told with a twist or two! Full of action, adventure, fae, elves, mages, dragons and so much more! The world building is just incredible and you can easily visualise all of it and the storyline with its twists is also quite hot and steamy in places and the characters are exciting and intriguing and I so hoped Aurora our human princess and Filip our elf prince would get their HEA. Another fantabulous read from this author that I read in just one sitting!
January 21, 2021
This enchanting book captured my attention via the lovely cover, and though I really didn't know what to expect, I was pleasantly surprised to find myself reading it non-stop. The only let down is that... It's only one book. I wish there was more, so I could learn more about the world and the characters, the history and the legends.
All in all, an intriguing world to visit for a few hours.
All in all, an intriguing world to visit for a few hours.
January 26, 2021
I’m not sure how to review this? I will keep it simple and say there were parts that I really liked and there were parts where I was bored. The best way I can judge is if I would continue with the series? My answer is no. I don’t think I would.
February 15, 2021
I am really conflicted on how to rate this book....
Enchanting the Elven Mage was quite a fun, light YA fantasy. It had Fae, Elves, Mages, Witches and Dragons. A really unique retelling of Sleeping Beauty.
This book is about Aury, a girl raised in the Fae court (believing herself to be half-Fae) before her parents come along and say "surprise, you're a human princess and are betrothed to Felip, the Elf Prince. Now let's go save our country." Obviously, Aury is going to be shocked, upset and reluctant about this. Her whole life has been a lie and now two strangers show up demanding she sacrifice herself for a country and people she didn't even know she belonged to. Plus, she has to marry an "Evil Elf Prince", who's people are the stuff are nightmares. No thank you, not for this newly-minted princess.
Now, although I did enjoy this story I felt it had a few main problems. Namely:The fact it was a stand alone. I felt like so much could have been expanded on! Some of the scenes didn't seem to make sense as the story sometimes jumped from plot point to plot point with little to join and connect them. The Prince's group of friends were great- charming, witty and loyal...but we have no idea how they all met! It could have done with a few backstories to make the reader more involved in the friendships, more connected to the characters.
Due to the stand-alone nature of the book I felt the world building could have been expanded on. Everyone believes the Elves to be evil bloody creatures, that's what they are taught but...The Fae Prince is friends with the Elf Prince, so he knows this isn't true? The kingdoms are so close that many people know this is false so, where do these stories come from? Why is there so much hate towards the Elves?? Why does Aury have such a strong prejudice towards them? And I didn't fully grasp why the Wolfyn themselves were fighting, or even WHAT they were. Men? Wolves? A hybrid beast?
Aury herself was a bit of a thorn in my side. She was strong, determined and head strong HOWEVER despite constantly insisting she's "not a child", she really acts like one. Yes, you can be angry at you parents for the fact that you were lied to your whole life....but their reasons are understandable, and as an adult you would be able to see that? It was just to protect her so she didn't get killed by the witches curse, so....🤷♀️
I really enjoyed Filips character. He was fun, charming, battle skilled and kind. Despite being the second born, he's a natural leader and cares for his people. Go Filip!
The Fae people themselves could have also done with a bit more building. Even though Aury was bullied by the Fae for the 19 years of her life living in the fae-court, the reader only briefly gets told this. The 4 main Fae we see in this book are kind and generous, so we never actually see the cruelty of the Fae, we are a gain just told something and are meant to accept it.
I just ... I did enjoy this and I feel it had SO MUCH potential, it just could do with a bit more building upon and ironing out.
So, if you enjoy a light and easy YA fantasy, sleeping beauty retellings, enemies-to-lovers and don't mind a world that isn't massively well-built, you will hopefully enjoy this book
3.5⭐
Enchanting the Elven Mage was quite a fun, light YA fantasy. It had Fae, Elves, Mages, Witches and Dragons. A really unique retelling of Sleeping Beauty.
This book is about Aury, a girl raised in the Fae court (believing herself to be half-Fae) before her parents come along and say "surprise, you're a human princess and are betrothed to Felip, the Elf Prince. Now let's go save our country." Obviously, Aury is going to be shocked, upset and reluctant about this. Her whole life has been a lie and now two strangers show up demanding she sacrifice herself for a country and people she didn't even know she belonged to. Plus, she has to marry an "Evil Elf Prince", who's people are the stuff are nightmares. No thank you, not for this newly-minted princess.
Now, although I did enjoy this story I felt it had a few main problems. Namely:The fact it was a stand alone. I felt like so much could have been expanded on! Some of the scenes didn't seem to make sense as the story sometimes jumped from plot point to plot point with little to join and connect them. The Prince's group of friends were great- charming, witty and loyal...but we have no idea how they all met! It could have done with a few backstories to make the reader more involved in the friendships, more connected to the characters.
Due to the stand-alone nature of the book I felt the world building could have been expanded on. Everyone believes the Elves to be evil bloody creatures, that's what they are taught but...The Fae Prince is friends with the Elf Prince, so he knows this isn't true? The kingdoms are so close that many people know this is false so, where do these stories come from? Why is there so much hate towards the Elves?? Why does Aury have such a strong prejudice towards them? And I didn't fully grasp why the Wolfyn themselves were fighting, or even WHAT they were. Men? Wolves? A hybrid beast?
Aury herself was a bit of a thorn in my side. She was strong, determined and head strong HOWEVER despite constantly insisting she's "not a child", she really acts like one. Yes, you can be angry at you parents for the fact that you were lied to your whole life....but their reasons are understandable, and as an adult you would be able to see that? It was just to protect her so she didn't get killed by the witches curse, so....🤷♀️
I really enjoyed Filips character. He was fun, charming, battle skilled and kind. Despite being the second born, he's a natural leader and cares for his people. Go Filip!
The Fae people themselves could have also done with a bit more building. Even though Aury was bullied by the Fae for the 19 years of her life living in the fae-court, the reader only briefly gets told this. The 4 main Fae we see in this book are kind and generous, so we never actually see the cruelty of the Fae, we are a gain just told something and are meant to accept it.
I just ... I did enjoy this and I feel it had SO MUCH potential, it just could do with a bit more building upon and ironing out.
So, if you enjoy a light and easy YA fantasy, sleeping beauty retellings, enemies-to-lovers and don't mind a world that isn't massively well-built, you will hopefully enjoy this book
3.5⭐
April 21, 2021
So awful I could not finish
I started reading this a few months ago, didn't like it after the first few chapters and put it away. Then I rediscovered it and tried again. I trudged all the way through to 70% before I decided that it just wasn't worth the pain.
The dialogue was clunky and stilted, and there wasn't enough done to set the tone for the place and characters. There was literally no development beyond the two main protagonists. The heroine's parents are horrible and her guardian, is evil, and the witch pulling the strings is evil and there's no explanation as to why they are this way. Because everyone is so bad, we're supposed to feel sorry for Aury, our heroine, and root for her, but she was the worst. Spoiled, entitled, self centred, judgemental, and prejudiced. Shooting her mouth off without any facts, not reflecting or apologising later. I actually grew to hate her as I went on.
The prince in contrast seems too great, super understanding, not at all turned off by Aurys bad attitude, which is hard to believe. Every conversation, she literally parrots all the nasty things people have said about his race/species/whatever elves are, to his face and he just accepts it and let's it roll off his back. Seriously? He's a prince not a Saint.
Its hard to believe this could end HEA unless like a decade passes in the last 30% of the book and Aury grows up, a lot.
I started reading this a few months ago, didn't like it after the first few chapters and put it away. Then I rediscovered it and tried again. I trudged all the way through to 70% before I decided that it just wasn't worth the pain.
The dialogue was clunky and stilted, and there wasn't enough done to set the tone for the place and characters. There was literally no development beyond the two main protagonists. The heroine's parents are horrible and her guardian, is evil, and the witch pulling the strings is evil and there's no explanation as to why they are this way. Because everyone is so bad, we're supposed to feel sorry for Aury, our heroine, and root for her, but she was the worst. Spoiled, entitled, self centred, judgemental, and prejudiced. Shooting her mouth off without any facts, not reflecting or apologising later. I actually grew to hate her as I went on.
The prince in contrast seems too great, super understanding, not at all turned off by Aurys bad attitude, which is hard to believe. Every conversation, she literally parrots all the nasty things people have said about his race/species/whatever elves are, to his face and he just accepts it and let's it roll off his back. Seriously? He's a prince not a Saint.
Its hard to believe this could end HEA unless like a decade passes in the last 30% of the book and Aury grows up, a lot.
December 23, 2021
I know the author tried to portray the h, Aury as a strong, bold, independent woman but she just came across as immature and bratty. It was very hard to like her. Although I did think Filip was funny and charming, this book couldn’t keep my interest. So I heavily skimmed because it was that boring 🤷🏽♀️
Content: Clean, Kissing, Implied intimacy
Content: Clean, Kissing, Implied intimacy
April 18, 2021
A Sleeping beauty retelling.
Enemies to lovers vibes!
And before she knew it, she was riding a dragon with an elven Prince
This books goes about aury (aurora) who is a half-breed (fae/human) and gets this bad treatment in the Fae court. *sleeping beauty vibes*. The Queen of the fae Court who happened to be her aunt told her that she was sending aury away. At an event, aury came to know that she was about to leave for good as in marriage. She gets to know that the queen and king of Lore are her parents, and she is a water mage and she was betrothed and cursed (spinning wheels). She must marry the elf Prince to protect her kingdom and ofcourse help the Prince, his kingdom.
Fillip Prince (second son of the mountain kingdom) who is a elf goes to his castle and hears that he has a wife now.
Aury asked the fairy godmothers to put a glamour on her, so that Prince fillip will disguise her. But he winked at her when he saw her. *LMAO
Even though aury told him that she can settle a blood deal in exchange not to do the marriage. He stands on it to pursue her.
So now, aury decided to be immature and send a letter to the witch 🧙♀️who cursed her. Aury, just wants to be independent and so she strives for it by Trying to get a hold on her power.
Beside the two main characters, I made a great bond with Costel, one of Filip close friends. Costel is so funny and kind of showing off all the time.
Costel : Neither humans, elves, nor fae have vomeronasal organs to detect beneficial elements for mating, so there's no way this human merchant such a blend.
The last chapters made me sob so much!! But I totally adore this book. I definitely recommend it and it is a quick read that can help you from your reading slump!
Enemies to lovers vibes!
And before she knew it, she was riding a dragon with an elven Prince
This books goes about aury (aurora) who is a half-breed (fae/human) and gets this bad treatment in the Fae court. *sleeping beauty vibes*. The Queen of the fae Court who happened to be her aunt told her that she was sending aury away. At an event, aury came to know that she was about to leave for good as in marriage. She gets to know that the queen and king of Lore are her parents, and she is a water mage and she was betrothed and cursed (spinning wheels). She must marry the elf Prince to protect her kingdom and ofcourse help the Prince, his kingdom.
Fillip Prince (second son of the mountain kingdom) who is a elf goes to his castle and hears that he has a wife now.
Aury asked the fairy godmothers to put a glamour on her, so that Prince fillip will disguise her. But he winked at her when he saw her. *LMAO
Even though aury told him that she can settle a blood deal in exchange not to do the marriage. He stands on it to pursue her.
So now, aury decided to be immature and send a letter to the witch 🧙♀️who cursed her. Aury, just wants to be independent and so she strives for it by Trying to get a hold on her power.
Beside the two main characters, I made a great bond with Costel, one of Filip close friends. Costel is so funny and kind of showing off all the time.
Costel : Neither humans, elves, nor fae have vomeronasal organs to detect beneficial elements for mating, so there's no way this human merchant such a blend.
The last chapters made me sob so much!! But I totally adore this book. I definitely recommend it and it is a quick read that can help you from your reading slump!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 24, 2024
Again, a book that surprised me. Aury has been living with the fae for all of her life, abused, demeaned, treated horribly when she discovers that she is not fae but a human princess, heir to the throne and betrothed to what she thinks is an evil elven prince.
She is definitely unhappy with things and wants nothing but to be able to live her own life.
Filip is the elven prince who does not match her beliefs,
Together they must learn to change and defeat all their enemies.
This is a quick, easy reading book. Somethings were surprising, some were not. A fair amount of action, magic and some dragons. The characters grew as the book moved along although Aury was a bit unreasonable at time.
I’m going continue reading this series.
She is definitely unhappy with things and wants nothing but to be able to live her own life.
Filip is the elven prince who does not match her beliefs,
Together they must learn to change and defeat all their enemies.
This is a quick, easy reading book. Somethings were surprising, some were not. A fair amount of action, magic and some dragons. The characters grew as the book moved along although Aury was a bit unreasonable at time.
I’m going continue reading this series.
February 2, 2021
I have to say I was quite torn on how I felt about this book. On the surface, while a bit cheese, it was enjoyable. However, the first ½ of the book felt like it would never end. (No, just me?)
Pretty sure it felt that way because there was sooooo much back and forth between the two main characters (MCs) points of view (POV) that there was a lot of retelling from different sides without a lot of movement. And while there is still a lot of back and forth between characters, if you can push through, then the book starts to pick up the pace with a lot less backtracking every time the characters switch.
Side note: I wish the chapters would have been labeled somehow to indicate which character we were with. There were quite a few times I would get lost and have to start the chapter over once I realized who the MC was we were following.
ANYWAYS . . . This story is a fun retelling of Sleeping Beauty and it such a fun way!!! Aurora (aka Aury) is a human raised in the Fae Court believing she is half Fae herself when she learns that she is in fact, human. Bummer. But wait—she is not just human, she is a water mage! Cool! And the handsome Price Filip (yes, this spelling did make my eyes roll for an entire book) is an Elf. There are dragons and fighting between enemies and lovers, truly there was so much to love!
There was so much uniqueness to this retelling that I almost wish she would have changed the names and gone rouge. There was so much possibility! Alisha Klapheke had so many great ideas that this was truly a world of its own. I would have loved to see it drawn out a little more, but enjoyed the ride!
I would have given it four stars for how imaginative it is, but the back and forth between Mrs really threw me and made it a little less enjoyable.
Check out my bookish blog for more reviews!
Pretty sure it felt that way because there was sooooo much back and forth between the two main characters (MCs) points of view (POV) that there was a lot of retelling from different sides without a lot of movement. And while there is still a lot of back and forth between characters, if you can push through, then the book starts to pick up the pace with a lot less backtracking every time the characters switch.
Side note: I wish the chapters would have been labeled somehow to indicate which character we were with. There were quite a few times I would get lost and have to start the chapter over once I realized who the MC was we were following.
ANYWAYS . . . This story is a fun retelling of Sleeping Beauty and it such a fun way!!! Aurora (aka Aury) is a human raised in the Fae Court believing she is half Fae herself when she learns that she is in fact, human. Bummer. But wait—she is not just human, she is a water mage! Cool! And the handsome Price Filip (yes, this spelling did make my eyes roll for an entire book) is an Elf. There are dragons and fighting between enemies and lovers, truly there was so much to love!
There was so much uniqueness to this retelling that I almost wish she would have changed the names and gone rouge. There was so much possibility! Alisha Klapheke had so many great ideas that this was truly a world of its own. I would have loved to see it drawn out a little more, but enjoyed the ride!
I would have given it four stars for how imaginative it is, but the back and forth between Mrs really threw me and made it a little less enjoyable.
Check out my bookish blog for more reviews!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 27, 2025
A blending of magic, elves and fae in a fairytale setting. A world of magic in all it's forms with a feel of rose tinting to make you feel immersed.
An easy read with slow burn (ish) romance in a fairytale setting. Sweet nods to the origin material and a badass FMC. Could have been longer with more fleshed out characters but as it's only book one I can't say that it isn't coming!
It was also nice to see the words "thank you" given where needed, good job Aury! Would love to have seen more of the good fae in this though, they had such potential and range of personalities! I was also expecting some twist or betrayal but perhaps that comes later, who knows 🤷♀️
An easy read with slow burn (ish) romance in a fairytale setting. Sweet nods to the origin material and a badass FMC. Could have been longer with more fleshed out characters but as it's only book one I can't say that it isn't coming!
It was also nice to see the words "thank you" given where needed, good job Aury! Would love to have seen more of the good fae in this though, they had such potential and range of personalities! I was also expecting some twist or betrayal but perhaps that comes later, who knows 🤷♀️
January 17, 2021
3.5; this was a pretty endearing read though it took me a bit to get settled in with the writing, which was sometimes charming and occasionally a little awkward, but by the halfway point, reading this was a breeze.
aury comes off as a bit childish and naive in her desire to prove her worth but i ended up quite liking her. admittedly the whole becoming a magelord storyline is a little too easy but well, sometimes you do just want to see your protagonists succeed lol. filip is a sweetheart (and his friends are so loyal, it’s cute) and i loved that the more vulnerable moments in this book actually came in his chapters.
if you’re looking for a light fantasy read, i’d recommend giving this a try :)
aury comes off as a bit childish and naive in her desire to prove her worth but i ended up quite liking her. admittedly the whole becoming a magelord storyline is a little too easy but well, sometimes you do just want to see your protagonists succeed lol. filip is a sweetheart (and his friends are so loyal, it’s cute) and i loved that the more vulnerable moments in this book actually came in his chapters.
if you’re looking for a light fantasy read, i’d recommend giving this a try :)
February 16, 2021
A Clean Fantasy Romance
This cute re-imagining of sleeping beauty puts the fairy tale on its head and turns it inside out. Our princess is tough and strong willed with no love for the parents that his her away with no knowledge of who she was and never bothered to check up on her. So when the not so loving parents show up and tell her she is to be married to an Even Prince and that she has a bit of magic flowing through her veins, she tells them what they can do with it. The story goes on from there as she learns what she is truly capable of.
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This cute re-imagining of sleeping beauty puts the fairy tale on its head and turns it inside out. Our princess is tough and strong willed with no love for the parents that his her away with no knowledge of who she was and never bothered to check up on her. So when the not so loving parents show up and tell her she is to be married to an Even Prince and that she has a bit of magic flowing through her veins, she tells them what they can do with it. The story goes on from there as she learns what she is truly capable of.
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October 29, 2021
I really tried to love this story, but both of the main characters were, not awful, but ungodly annoying. I wish I could have seen where the story went and how it concluded, but it was just too painful listening to the two of them bicker like school children. I finally DNF'd at 60% after wishing I would have just let is lie at 30%
Our lead was selfish and bratty. The love interest, while considerably less bratty and selfish, had no substance. The supporting characters were flat. and the world building was only okay.
Our lead was selfish and bratty. The love interest, while considerably less bratty and selfish, had no substance. The supporting characters were flat. and the world building was only okay.
May 6, 2021
It's been a while since I read a book where I absolutely loathed almost everyone. By almost I mean, everyone save Filip. I had a feeling throughout the book that he was a very likable character who managed to get lost from a different book and got lost in this awful world.
It's mentally taxing reading a story where everyone is utterly a rotten character. Really. I can understand torture, death, blood, but damn not this.
It's mentally taxing reading a story where everyone is utterly a rotten character. Really. I can understand torture, death, blood, but damn not this.
October 29, 2022
This was so good! I love fantasy and romance with a HEA, and this was the perfect combo of both. Enemies to lovers with a war and political strife, it combined perfectly to get me drawn in so intensely. If you love high fantasy- such as Lord of the Rings - you will love this. I would definitely read this again in the future.
Also, did I mention dragons? Dragons?? Yes, it includes dragons. I am looking forward to the rest of the series.
Also, did I mention dragons? Dragons?? Yes, it includes dragons. I am looking forward to the rest of the series.
April 26, 2021
So, I am about to throw the book at the wall because every single action the protagonist (an adult) takes is absolutely selfish and based on a terrible prejudice about the elven prince she is to marry. Literally everything so far has been "but the rumors say that... and he surely is that... and therefore I am going to..." and with that every reasoning of the female protagonist could be summed up so far. And I am tired. She either grows up VERY fast and starts apparenting her age and stop acting like a spoiled child (which btw she is not supposed to be, rather the opposite since she went through such a difficult childhood and bla bla bla) or I will actually throw my virtual book against the virtual wall. How am I supposed to suffer through so much prejudicing and doing stupid things in the name of prejudice?
With that said, the book does have potential, so I am still reading it. The setting is interesting and it is the first sleeping beauty retelling I read, so I am intrigued about how this is going to unfold. I also like the elven prince, who has proven to be the only character with moral principles. I may update this review or I may not depending on the next steps our protagonist takes. So far, I only dislike her. Tipp: if you want to write a book, write a coherent, understandable and likeable protagonist. If the book would be better without her, you have a problem.
With that said, the book does have potential, so I am still reading it. The setting is interesting and it is the first sleeping beauty retelling I read, so I am intrigued about how this is going to unfold. I also like the elven prince, who has proven to be the only character with moral principles. I may update this review or I may not depending on the next steps our protagonist takes. So far, I only dislike her. Tipp: if you want to write a book, write a coherent, understandable and likeable protagonist. If the book would be better without her, you have a problem.
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