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Marked #1
Marked by Fate
She found her true home - just in time to fight for its survival.
Katherine Doyle can't quite figure out how to fit in, and the loss of her father ten years ago only exacerbated her loneliness. When she begins to see creatures that no one else can, she realizes her entire upbringing has been filled with lies and deception.
In a leap of faith, she adventures into the realm of Faeries, where she discovers that she is not actually an outcast meant for the human realm, but a powerful Fae. As she discovers how to manage her newfound powers, passionate tension ignites between her, the commander of the Queen's army, and the heir to the throne. But between the excitement of magic, friendship, and love, a looming fact remains: All is not well in this realm. Her race is under threat of extinction…and the hunt for her heritage could end her bloodline entirely.
“Marked by Fate” is the first in an adult fantasy romance series, based loosely on Celtic lore, which will take you on an action-packed journey of loss, love, and found family.
Katherine Doyle can't quite figure out how to fit in, and the loss of her father ten years ago only exacerbated her loneliness. When she begins to see creatures that no one else can, she realizes her entire upbringing has been filled with lies and deception.
In a leap of faith, she adventures into the realm of Faeries, where she discovers that she is not actually an outcast meant for the human realm, but a powerful Fae. As she discovers how to manage her newfound powers, passionate tension ignites between her, the commander of the Queen's army, and the heir to the throne. But between the excitement of magic, friendship, and love, a looming fact remains: All is not well in this realm. Her race is under threat of extinction…and the hunt for her heritage could end her bloodline entirely.
“Marked by Fate” is the first in an adult fantasy romance series, based loosely on Celtic lore, which will take you on an action-packed journey of loss, love, and found family.
311 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 14, 2023
45 people are currently reading
2475 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
May 2, 2023
This was a really great debut from Jayme Hunt!!
This book was really well edited and I appreciated the short chapters, fast pace, and explanation of the lore being used as I am not well versed in Celtic lore.
I also liked that there was assistance with pronunciation because I was 100% struggling sometimes lol. It also had a lot of funny moments and I really liked Kate as a main character. I felt that she was relatable and handled all of the information thrown at her in stride. I liked her romance with Blaise, but I’m also kinda maybe hoping something happens with Finlay…??? 👉🏻👈🏻 overall, I think everything is leading up to really important events that will happen in book 2.
Fair warning: the book does end on a cliffhanger!!
This book was really well edited and I appreciated the short chapters, fast pace, and explanation of the lore being used as I am not well versed in Celtic lore.
I also liked that there was assistance with pronunciation because I was 100% struggling sometimes lol. It also had a lot of funny moments and I really liked Kate as a main character. I felt that she was relatable and handled all of the information thrown at her in stride. I liked her romance with Blaise, but I’m also kinda maybe hoping something happens with Finlay…??? 👉🏻👈🏻 overall, I think everything is leading up to really important events that will happen in book 2.
Fair warning: the book does end on a cliffhanger!!
October 11, 2023
EMOTIONAL DAMAGE. STRAIGHT UP EMOTIONAL DAMAGE.
This book was AMAZING, Jayme did a phenomenal job of bringing this story to life, making me love her characters, and BREAKING MY HEART.
I spent most of this story lusting after 3 of the men she introduced and yelling at the pages when things happened (much to my family’s chagrin, I did it in public and at the house lol).
Overall, if you’re looking for an epic adventure filled with romance and some spice, look no further! But be prepared to have your heart shattered.
This book was AMAZING, Jayme did a phenomenal job of bringing this story to life, making me love her characters, and BREAKING MY HEART.
I spent most of this story lusting after 3 of the men she introduced and yelling at the pages when things happened (much to my family’s chagrin, I did it in public and at the house lol).
Overall, if you’re looking for an epic adventure filled with romance and some spice, look no further! But be prepared to have your heart shattered.
March 29, 2023
*I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
First off, thank you so much Jayme for allowing me to read an ARC of this book! I went into this totally blind and I was honestly blown away! This was a wonderful debut! It had the perfect blend of fantasy with modern day. Kate was a very refreshing heroine with realistic reactions to the things that were going on around her and I feel like that is something we do not see enough in fantasy books, especially the ones that include a modern day fmc.
The cast of characters was well rounded and the world felt lived in. Finlay had my whole heart from the moment he showed up and I want Cas to be my best friend. It was very clear that a lot of thought and planning was put into this book. I honestly think one of my only gripes was the first few chapters felt slower than the rest, and I mean, I get it! You have to set the scene and build some ~lore~ but I really just wanted to get to the action. But all in all this was a solid read and I am foaming at the mouth for the next part in the series!!!
First off, thank you so much Jayme for allowing me to read an ARC of this book! I went into this totally blind and I was honestly blown away! This was a wonderful debut! It had the perfect blend of fantasy with modern day. Kate was a very refreshing heroine with realistic reactions to the things that were going on around her and I feel like that is something we do not see enough in fantasy books, especially the ones that include a modern day fmc.
The cast of characters was well rounded and the world felt lived in. Finlay had my whole heart from the moment he showed up and I want Cas to be my best friend. It was very clear that a lot of thought and planning was put into this book. I honestly think one of my only gripes was the first few chapters felt slower than the rest, and I mean, I get it! You have to set the scene and build some ~lore~ but I really just wanted to get to the action. But all in all this was a solid read and I am foaming at the mouth for the next part in the series!!!
April 19, 2023
OKAY. that was a cliffhanger if I ever read one. this book sucked me in. the mysterious lineage, the potential love interests, the magic, the friendship, the spice. 🤌this was a good one!!!
May 10, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
« “𝘐’𝘷𝘦 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘧𝘦𝘸 𝘱𝘦𝘰𝘱𝘭𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘮𝘺 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘢𝘨𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘶𝘱 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘷𝘦 𝘪𝘯, 𝘦𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘪𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘪𝘧 𝘪𝘵’𝘴 𝘢𝘨𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘴𝘵 𝘮𝘦. 𝘐 𝘴𝘦𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘴𝘱𝘪𝘳𝘪𝘵 𝘪𝘯 𝘺𝘰𝘶, 𝘒𝘢𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘦. 𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘵’𝘴 𝘴𝘵𝘶𝘯𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨.” »
I ate this book up. I have not finished a book this fast in a while, I could not get enough and I’m so glad I have an arc of the sequel so I can jump right in, especially after that cliffhanger!!
I thought the world building was really cool, basically taking from myths we already know and incorporating it into a slightly new world. I love all the Celtic influences (aside from me having trouble pronouncing names). I really like Kate, she’s a great fmc and I found I can relate to her very easily! Also the side characters are fantastic, Cas & Darrya are hilarious.
I don’t care what anyone says about love triangles, I love them and they hit every time! At first I was mad I would have to choose between the two of them and now I am definitely leaning in a certain direction iykyk. I’m excited to see how this all plays out.
My only complaint is that some of the story did feel a bit rushed, I wished some of the moments between the love interests were a bit more fleshed out, build up a little bit more of that angst. Otherwise I think this was a really fun read and I am very excited to start the sequel and see where Jayme takes us on this wild adventure!
« “𝘓𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘨𝘰 𝘥𝘰𝘦𝘴𝘯'𝘵 𝘮𝘦𝘢𝘯 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘨𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨. 𝘐𝘵 𝘮𝘦𝘢𝘯𝘴 𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘨𝘯𝘪𝘻𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘱𝘢𝘴𝘵 𝘪𝘯 𝘢 𝘸𝘢𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘦𝘮𝘱𝘰𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘱𝘰𝘸𝘦𝘳.” »
« “𝘐’𝘷𝘦 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘧𝘦𝘸 𝘱𝘦𝘰𝘱𝘭𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘮𝘺 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘢𝘨𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘶𝘱 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘷𝘦 𝘪𝘯, 𝘦𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘪𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘪𝘧 𝘪𝘵’𝘴 𝘢𝘨𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘴𝘵 𝘮𝘦. 𝘐 𝘴𝘦𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘴𝘱𝘪𝘳𝘪𝘵 𝘪𝘯 𝘺𝘰𝘶, 𝘒𝘢𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘦. 𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘵’𝘴 𝘴𝘵𝘶𝘯𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨.” »
I ate this book up. I have not finished a book this fast in a while, I could not get enough and I’m so glad I have an arc of the sequel so I can jump right in, especially after that cliffhanger!!
I thought the world building was really cool, basically taking from myths we already know and incorporating it into a slightly new world. I love all the Celtic influences (aside from me having trouble pronouncing names). I really like Kate, she’s a great fmc and I found I can relate to her very easily! Also the side characters are fantastic, Cas & Darrya are hilarious.
I don’t care what anyone says about love triangles, I love them and they hit every time! At first I was mad I would have to choose between the two of them and now I am definitely leaning in a certain direction iykyk. I’m excited to see how this all plays out.
My only complaint is that some of the story did feel a bit rushed, I wished some of the moments between the love interests were a bit more fleshed out, build up a little bit more of that angst. Otherwise I think this was a really fun read and I am very excited to start the sequel and see where Jayme takes us on this wild adventure!
« “𝘓𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘨𝘰 𝘥𝘰𝘦𝘴𝘯'𝘵 𝘮𝘦𝘢𝘯 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘨𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨. 𝘐𝘵 𝘮𝘦𝘢𝘯𝘴 𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘨𝘯𝘪𝘻𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘱𝘢𝘴𝘵 𝘪𝘯 𝘢 𝘸𝘢𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘦𝘮𝘱𝘰𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘱𝘰𝘸𝘦𝘳.” »
April 18, 2023
Loved the world building in this! Also, totally team Finlay. 🤍
February 15, 2023
*I was given an ARC copy of this in exchange for an honest review*
I will start off by saying that I overall enjoyed this book. It has a strong female mc, a growing love triangle, a solid growing found family, and flawed male mc that you start off hating but end up loving.
The story starts off based in Colorado, which I found interesting and helped relate to Kate, the fmc, by giving a sense of familiarity. It then breaks off into the faerie realm. Throughout the book Kate is processing some large emotions that arise from facing her past and getting to see her thought process really helped relate to her.
I will say that at times relationships felt sudden as a lot of the relationship building happens off page. I personally enjoy watching relationships bloom on the page, but even though we don’t get to see much of this the adoration and loyalty amongst the found family is still strong.
I think this was a great beginning to an awesome story. Kate very much is a “chosen one” and this first book felt like a prelude to the main event. I’m excited to see where this author takes us.
I will start off by saying that I overall enjoyed this book. It has a strong female mc, a growing love triangle, a solid growing found family, and flawed male mc that you start off hating but end up loving.
The story starts off based in Colorado, which I found interesting and helped relate to Kate, the fmc, by giving a sense of familiarity. It then breaks off into the faerie realm. Throughout the book Kate is processing some large emotions that arise from facing her past and getting to see her thought process really helped relate to her.
I will say that at times relationships felt sudden as a lot of the relationship building happens off page. I personally enjoy watching relationships bloom on the page, but even though we don’t get to see much of this the adoration and loyalty amongst the found family is still strong.
I think this was a great beginning to an awesome story. Kate very much is a “chosen one” and this first book felt like a prelude to the main event. I’m excited to see where this author takes us.
January 31, 2023
*received an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review*
This book checked all the right boxes for a fantasy romance—strong female lead? Done. Dark-haired, handsome soldier? Check. Rakish, devil-may-care prince? Definitely there. And a love triangle encompassing all three? Absolutely.
In terms of pacing, I think the beginning of this story lagged a little, but only because I know that as part of a longer series the first installment had an awful lot of world building to do. The MC is a strong, independent woman who truly will, I think, come into her own, though now she’s still feeling out her place in this Faerie world she’s tumbled in to. While I, at times, found her a little too willing to blindly accept the incredible circumstances before her, her quest for a family and a place in the world that just feels “right” anchors her motivations. A lovable ensemble of faerie’s and royals forms her friend group, each falling into the comforting tropes of an epic fantasy.
I definitely enjoyed my time in the world of this book and, if anything, would love to see the rich Celtic history and loose interpretations of the myths and creatures therein played up even more in the world’s culture. The book left off on such a cliffhanger that I have no doubt I’ll be waiting in line for book two!
This book checked all the right boxes for a fantasy romance—strong female lead? Done. Dark-haired, handsome soldier? Check. Rakish, devil-may-care prince? Definitely there. And a love triangle encompassing all three? Absolutely.
In terms of pacing, I think the beginning of this story lagged a little, but only because I know that as part of a longer series the first installment had an awful lot of world building to do. The MC is a strong, independent woman who truly will, I think, come into her own, though now she’s still feeling out her place in this Faerie world she’s tumbled in to. While I, at times, found her a little too willing to blindly accept the incredible circumstances before her, her quest for a family and a place in the world that just feels “right” anchors her motivations. A lovable ensemble of faerie’s and royals forms her friend group, each falling into the comforting tropes of an epic fantasy.
I definitely enjoyed my time in the world of this book and, if anything, would love to see the rich Celtic history and loose interpretations of the myths and creatures therein played up even more in the world’s culture. The book left off on such a cliffhanger that I have no doubt I’ll be waiting in line for book two!
May 31, 2023
This is Jayme Hunt debut novel and you would never know. This book was INCREDIBLE. The world building was well thought out and explained. The characters were deep and not just surface level to add to the plot. The storyline kept me intrigued from beginning to end. THE END. Holy cliffhanger. I immediately need book 2. This is a must read fantasy.
February 1, 2023
I was given this book as an ARC for an honest review.
I will first say that this book was cleanly edited and it was easy to read. The book is fast-paced and cuts out most of the filler, so you need to keep a clear vision of what everything looks like and pay attention to the passage of time. This book is for a reader who may want a palette cleanser between heavy books, or wants to fall into a world without thinking about it too much. It leans into tropes that the author seems to enjoy, and it is put together in a way that is easy to digest and quick to read.
This book has no sense of urgency, which leads to a narrative that feels as if something big could happen at any moment, but with all the plot armor the characters have, they don't need to truly worry about anything. I also never feel a great sense of danger or consequence for anything that happens. This isn't a terrible thing if you're not here for the plot, so be aware of that.
As far as the romance goes, I do wish there was more of it in the first half. The expectation of "who is she falling for" connects Kate (the MC) to the characters because of the reader's expectation, but even the friendships are surface-level and convenient. Relationships kind of happen to Kate, and interest is based on her 'chosen one' quality. Again, if this does not matter to you, this isn't a problem. Even the chosen-one trope is a selling point to the story, so expect it to lean into those tropes.
I do want to talk about some representation things that really brought this down for me. The openly gay character is overly flamboyant and a caricature of a gay man, including flirty promiscuity and gossiping. He is the embodiment of the "gay best friend", and I firmly believe were past this kind of rep in books. There are also some notions of eugenics that sent up red flags for me. The MC's messaging is confused, whereas at one point she thinks about how her faerie "race" is "superior" to other fae races, while also being disgusted about how another of her dwindling fae race wants to breed with her purely because they're of the same "superior race". I should also point out that this particular "romantic interest" is blonde with light eyes, so he is very much coded. I can't, in good consciousness, give this a pass.
The book is sold as a Celtic fantasy, but I don't see a lot of that set in the world. It is based on myths and legends of faeries, which have Celtic origins, but the world itself has little if anything to do with Celtic culture. If stripped of that word, the world would function exactly the same with no consequence. I was really hoping for more traditions or culture to be showcased.
2/5 stars
Don't recommend based on the selling points. If you want something to absorb without thinking about it too much, this might be the book for you
I will first say that this book was cleanly edited and it was easy to read. The book is fast-paced and cuts out most of the filler, so you need to keep a clear vision of what everything looks like and pay attention to the passage of time. This book is for a reader who may want a palette cleanser between heavy books, or wants to fall into a world without thinking about it too much. It leans into tropes that the author seems to enjoy, and it is put together in a way that is easy to digest and quick to read.
This book has no sense of urgency, which leads to a narrative that feels as if something big could happen at any moment, but with all the plot armor the characters have, they don't need to truly worry about anything. I also never feel a great sense of danger or consequence for anything that happens. This isn't a terrible thing if you're not here for the plot, so be aware of that.
As far as the romance goes, I do wish there was more of it in the first half. The expectation of "who is she falling for" connects Kate (the MC) to the characters because of the reader's expectation, but even the friendships are surface-level and convenient. Relationships kind of happen to Kate, and interest is based on her 'chosen one' quality. Again, if this does not matter to you, this isn't a problem. Even the chosen-one trope is a selling point to the story, so expect it to lean into those tropes.
I do want to talk about some representation things that really brought this down for me. The openly gay character is overly flamboyant and a caricature of a gay man, including flirty promiscuity and gossiping. He is the embodiment of the "gay best friend", and I firmly believe were past this kind of rep in books. There are also some notions of eugenics that sent up red flags for me. The MC's messaging is confused, whereas at one point she thinks about how her faerie "race" is "superior" to other fae races, while also being disgusted about how another of her dwindling fae race wants to breed with her purely because they're of the same "superior race". I should also point out that this particular "romantic interest" is blonde with light eyes, so he is very much coded. I can't, in good consciousness, give this a pass.
The book is sold as a Celtic fantasy, but I don't see a lot of that set in the world. It is based on myths and legends of faeries, which have Celtic origins, but the world itself has little if anything to do with Celtic culture. If stripped of that word, the world would function exactly the same with no consequence. I was really hoping for more traditions or culture to be showcased.
2/5 stars
Don't recommend based on the selling points. If you want something to absorb without thinking about it too much, this might be the book for you
August 15, 2024
*received an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review*
I genuinely enjoyed reading this debut novel by Jayme Hunt! I would also like to say that my interactions with Jayme have been wonderful and I was thrilled to be able to have this experience.
Overall, I enjoy Celtic tales and all the little tidbits that were added to this novel. Even though this gave me similar vibes from one of my favorite series as a teenager, the lore was different and refreshing. Kipp being a Brownie was a fun piece to this novel, since my only Brownie knowledge stems from the Borrowers or the Spiderwick Chronicles. It was nice to see a different interpretation of the lore.
While reading, I felt like I was learning alongside our female main character, Kate, and shared the same reactions she did to any new development. Her relationships with all of the other characters were relatable and true to her human side. It was also nice to see a Fae novel where the main character blends almost seamlessly with her new heritage. I liked that although she was new and learning, there didn't seem to be that internal struggle to belong that is usually found in these novels.
I admit that it took me a few tries to get through the start of the book and then I got progressively more nervous the closer I got to the end with the quick pace. I'm very interested in book 2 and can't wait to see how it all ties together. I enjoyed the banter between all of the characters and found myself liking every one of Kate's newfound friends and family. The characters were memorable and easily described for later use. I never found myself confused with names or places. The brewing of two love interests has piqued my curiosity and I can't wait to see how Kate handles Finlay and Blaise in book 2.
5/5 Stars and eagerly awaiting the sequel
I genuinely enjoyed reading this debut novel by Jayme Hunt! I would also like to say that my interactions with Jayme have been wonderful and I was thrilled to be able to have this experience.
Overall, I enjoy Celtic tales and all the little tidbits that were added to this novel. Even though this gave me similar vibes from one of my favorite series as a teenager, the lore was different and refreshing. Kipp being a Brownie was a fun piece to this novel, since my only Brownie knowledge stems from the Borrowers or the Spiderwick Chronicles. It was nice to see a different interpretation of the lore.
While reading, I felt like I was learning alongside our female main character, Kate, and shared the same reactions she did to any new development. Her relationships with all of the other characters were relatable and true to her human side. It was also nice to see a Fae novel where the main character blends almost seamlessly with her new heritage. I liked that although she was new and learning, there didn't seem to be that internal struggle to belong that is usually found in these novels.
I admit that it took me a few tries to get through the start of the book and then I got progressively more nervous the closer I got to the end with the quick pace. I'm very interested in book 2 and can't wait to see how it all ties together. I enjoyed the banter between all of the characters and found myself liking every one of Kate's newfound friends and family. The characters were memorable and easily described for later use. I never found myself confused with names or places. The brewing of two love interests has piqued my curiosity and I can't wait to see how Kate handles Finlay and Blaise in book 2.
5/5 Stars and eagerly awaiting the sequel
February 26, 2023
*received a free ARC copy in exchange for an honest review*
This was one of my top 5 favorite reads of 2022. Overall I really enjoyed the book. I hardly rate books over a 3 but this deserved it. A wonderful story, and even better yet, a well written one. I was enraptured from start to end. The world-building, the characters, and the ACTION— chef’s kiss! This book has it all— a love triangle, a strong and relatable FMC, and some of the best fantasy-related monsters and characters that I’ve ever read.
I did have some qualms about the book including the ending being a cliff-hanger. This is not a big deal for everyone and it did not ruin the book by any means. Cliffhangers can leave people wanting more or leave them unsatisfied— I believe it is a challenging balance for any author to try to achieve.
One other qualm: There were a few times where the love interest diminished/invalidated the FMC’s feelings (not on purpose) and I struggle with that— but again not to the point where it took away from the book for me.
I wrote an extended review for the author after reading the book and I attached it below the line of stars. The review contains several spoilers for the entire book- do not read before you’ve read the book if that ruins it for you.
*********************************************
SPOLIERS:
1. I thought Kate seemed to accept the fact that she was a faerie and went with Kipp rather easily. I think adding a little more sign of magic for her to witness would make it seem more realistic. With her saying she’s never had any experiences or anything out of the ordinary happen prior to then it just seemed accepted rather quickly.
2. World building and character development = freaking amazing! I really felt like I got to know each of the characters and see what makes them who they are— especially her friend group!!! LOVE THEM! Also the monsters/dark fae were amazing! The Love Talker was such an interesting and unique character.
3. I think I got confused reading the chapter regarding the magic cities/talismans/elements. I wasn’t certain if the cities were magic too or just the talismans. Also it goes into where the elements come from (e.g., wind comes from the spring star in the east). Are the stars where the cities are? Also each star/element was associated with a season except for one. The earth element only discussed being from the north but wasn’t tied to a season— is it winter since that’s the only one left or is it not associated with one? Lastly, does she have to go to each city to master the element from there in order to be able to lead a force?
4. The love triangle???? Give me more 🤤 I do like that they both seem to see Kate in different lights but because they seem to see different sides of her. I personally think that she seems to have two sides constantly at war and love that you get to see how these two different men love those sides of her for different reasons. To me Findlay seems to “love” her unconditionally for who she is now (good and bad) and Blaise seems more to love the better parts of her or the ones that line up more with him. While I am Team Findlay all the way— the beginning where Blaise holds the blade against her…. WOAH talk about some build up!
5. I do think that Blaise repeatedly inserts his own trauma into the conversation— but not in a relating way or supportive way, but in a way where he acts like his is worse than hers. Especially when her dad comes back from the dead (more or less) and he totally downplays it by talking about his dad. Then she’s all like “yeah how stupid was it that I was mad at my dad for traumatizing and abandoning me and my mom”. Blaise’s trauma shouldn’t lessen hers. I think there’s another conversation that could take place that could have the same outcome (being better off with her dad/forgiveness) without invalidating her feelings. Kate is such a strong female lead and I think this didn’t show that.
6. Showing her internal struggle with the trapping/killing of the Love Talker and then later her thoughts during the battle— showing that it was different because these fat chose to attack their home. They chose war and she was gonna give it to them to save her people. I think it was important to note the difference and show her growth into her character. Really shows how passionate and protective she is!
7. When she went to the Valkyries and then found out she had been blocked by one— and one that had been killed! Not only did I audibly gasp because of the plot twist but I also was satisfied as to why no one could figure her out. Important detail and so awesomely written! I loved that they went into how each decision, each action could cause a different outcome and so there was no way of knowing. Oh and the part of the sentence “they now swirled with glassy gray waves, almost like a dark storm at sea”… chef’s kiss! The detail is immaculate and I thought it was beyond cool that you can visually see their power in action.
8. Speaking of Valkyries— I don’t know who the hell this Myriam chick is but I don’t like her and I hope we get more of her story, and personally Kate kicking her ass if it’s not a good one!
9. I thought the way Cu Chulainn’s story was told and then came back full circle was really well done! I remember thinking that she must be related to him and then all of a sudden you find out his kin was killed off so she couldn’t be but then you find out they actually survived and hid and she IS related to him. Plot twist city and wonderfully done. I like that I can’t guess what is going to happen next easily like I sometimes can.
10. I personally struggle with cliffhanger endings in books. Typically speaking the amount of time between book releases is too long for me to remember what has happened (not like a weekly tv show). I think leaving the story somewhat resolved but clearly open for more is my preferred ending but everyone is different!
Overall I really enjoyed the book. I haven’t rated a book over a 3 in a LONG time. A wonderful story, and even better yet, a well written one.
This was one of my top 5 favorite reads of 2022. Overall I really enjoyed the book. I hardly rate books over a 3 but this deserved it. A wonderful story, and even better yet, a well written one. I was enraptured from start to end. The world-building, the characters, and the ACTION— chef’s kiss! This book has it all— a love triangle, a strong and relatable FMC, and some of the best fantasy-related monsters and characters that I’ve ever read.
I did have some qualms about the book including the ending being a cliff-hanger. This is not a big deal for everyone and it did not ruin the book by any means. Cliffhangers can leave people wanting more or leave them unsatisfied— I believe it is a challenging balance for any author to try to achieve.
One other qualm: There were a few times where the love interest diminished/invalidated the FMC’s feelings (not on purpose) and I struggle with that— but again not to the point where it took away from the book for me.
I wrote an extended review for the author after reading the book and I attached it below the line of stars. The review contains several spoilers for the entire book- do not read before you’ve read the book if that ruins it for you.
*********************************************
SPOLIERS:
1. I thought Kate seemed to accept the fact that she was a faerie and went with Kipp rather easily. I think adding a little more sign of magic for her to witness would make it seem more realistic. With her saying she’s never had any experiences or anything out of the ordinary happen prior to then it just seemed accepted rather quickly.
2. World building and character development = freaking amazing! I really felt like I got to know each of the characters and see what makes them who they are— especially her friend group!!! LOVE THEM! Also the monsters/dark fae were amazing! The Love Talker was such an interesting and unique character.
3. I think I got confused reading the chapter regarding the magic cities/talismans/elements. I wasn’t certain if the cities were magic too or just the talismans. Also it goes into where the elements come from (e.g., wind comes from the spring star in the east). Are the stars where the cities are? Also each star/element was associated with a season except for one. The earth element only discussed being from the north but wasn’t tied to a season— is it winter since that’s the only one left or is it not associated with one? Lastly, does she have to go to each city to master the element from there in order to be able to lead a force?
4. The love triangle???? Give me more 🤤 I do like that they both seem to see Kate in different lights but because they seem to see different sides of her. I personally think that she seems to have two sides constantly at war and love that you get to see how these two different men love those sides of her for different reasons. To me Findlay seems to “love” her unconditionally for who she is now (good and bad) and Blaise seems more to love the better parts of her or the ones that line up more with him. While I am Team Findlay all the way— the beginning where Blaise holds the blade against her…. WOAH talk about some build up!
5. I do think that Blaise repeatedly inserts his own trauma into the conversation— but not in a relating way or supportive way, but in a way where he acts like his is worse than hers. Especially when her dad comes back from the dead (more or less) and he totally downplays it by talking about his dad. Then she’s all like “yeah how stupid was it that I was mad at my dad for traumatizing and abandoning me and my mom”. Blaise’s trauma shouldn’t lessen hers. I think there’s another conversation that could take place that could have the same outcome (being better off with her dad/forgiveness) without invalidating her feelings. Kate is such a strong female lead and I think this didn’t show that.
6. Showing her internal struggle with the trapping/killing of the Love Talker and then later her thoughts during the battle— showing that it was different because these fat chose to attack their home. They chose war and she was gonna give it to them to save her people. I think it was important to note the difference and show her growth into her character. Really shows how passionate and protective she is!
7. When she went to the Valkyries and then found out she had been blocked by one— and one that had been killed! Not only did I audibly gasp because of the plot twist but I also was satisfied as to why no one could figure her out. Important detail and so awesomely written! I loved that they went into how each decision, each action could cause a different outcome and so there was no way of knowing. Oh and the part of the sentence “they now swirled with glassy gray waves, almost like a dark storm at sea”… chef’s kiss! The detail is immaculate and I thought it was beyond cool that you can visually see their power in action.
8. Speaking of Valkyries— I don’t know who the hell this Myriam chick is but I don’t like her and I hope we get more of her story, and personally Kate kicking her ass if it’s not a good one!
9. I thought the way Cu Chulainn’s story was told and then came back full circle was really well done! I remember thinking that she must be related to him and then all of a sudden you find out his kin was killed off so she couldn’t be but then you find out they actually survived and hid and she IS related to him. Plot twist city and wonderfully done. I like that I can’t guess what is going to happen next easily like I sometimes can.
10. I personally struggle with cliffhanger endings in books. Typically speaking the amount of time between book releases is too long for me to remember what has happened (not like a weekly tv show). I think leaving the story somewhat resolved but clearly open for more is my preferred ending but everyone is different!
Overall I really enjoyed the book. I haven’t rated a book over a 3 in a LONG time. A wonderful story, and even better yet, a well written one.
July 20, 2023
“You’re exactly the family I wish I’d had.”
I love a beautifully curated found family and this book has that kind of love in abundance. Each character Jayme introduces brings something unique to the dynamics of the group along with their own stories…and secrets.
The amount of secrets and lies have me side eyeing EVERYONE at all times because I can just feel the snake in the grass even if I can’t see it quite yet.
This book was absolutely entrancing and has me clawing for the next one! [Or just begging Jayme ;)]
I love a beautifully curated found family and this book has that kind of love in abundance. Each character Jayme introduces brings something unique to the dynamics of the group along with their own stories…and secrets.
The amount of secrets and lies have me side eyeing EVERYONE at all times because I can just feel the snake in the grass even if I can’t see it quite yet.
This book was absolutely entrancing and has me clawing for the next one! [Or just begging Jayme ;)]
February 8, 2023
Mysterious new realm, unknown fae powers, foreboding prophecies, and two main love interests- what more do you need?!
Kate is such a relatable character! The messy emotions throughout the book made her more real to me.
I loved learning the truth about her past and mystery of her future while learning about a whole other world alongside her. I loved how the friend group she has is supportive beyond belief, but wish there had been a bit more buildup of the friendships of them.
Also the two men who you can’t help but cheer on both sides as you learn more about them and their histories *swoon*
The author did amazing with the world building! The attention to detail was perfection. I could clearly envision the new world that I was sucked into.
There were a few parts I feel like there was a lot of build up that fell slightly flat, so hopefully in the next books there will be a bit more opportunity for the MC to fully process situations.
I truly did enjoy reading this and Im anxiously waiting for the next book!
Kate is such a relatable character! The messy emotions throughout the book made her more real to me.
I loved learning the truth about her past and mystery of her future while learning about a whole other world alongside her. I loved how the friend group she has is supportive beyond belief, but wish there had been a bit more buildup of the friendships of them.
Also the two men who you can’t help but cheer on both sides as you learn more about them and their histories *swoon*
The author did amazing with the world building! The attention to detail was perfection. I could clearly envision the new world that I was sucked into.
There were a few parts I feel like there was a lot of build up that fell slightly flat, so hopefully in the next books there will be a bit more opportunity for the MC to fully process situations.
I truly did enjoy reading this and Im anxiously waiting for the next book!
March 7, 2023
This was such a fun book! I loved all the world building. Our main character, Kate, learns she is more than human and descends into the faerie world after a horse of legend appeared to her. The plot built slowly but steadily. It wasn’t too fast, where it felt like there was information overload, and it wasn’t so slow, where it felt like nothing was happening. It was perfectly in the middle—the plot moved forward steadily and it didn’t feel like information overload.
Kate has two men she is attracted to and who have feelings for her—a love triangle has formed—but I have hope that Jayme won’t make us pick between them, and Kate will end up with both. 🤞
There were a good number of lines that had me chuckling at the banter. I also always love a found family trope. And the villain is also one of my favorite people in lore, so I was really excited to see her incorporated!
Now this book does end in a cliffhanger, so be warned. The ending was so unexpected! It felt like when you get in a car after the volume has been turned up all the way and you didn’t know, and your soul is just blasted out of your body. That last page just made me 🤯🤯🤯
I’m so ready for book 2!
February 16, 2023
Spoilers included:
I loved every bit of this story and all of the references to Celtic Lore. It’s very rare in popular media to have the Fae be represented accurately with Celtic Lore.
It had all of the elements from my favorite series’ growing up of intense love triangles, mysteries, following the main character as she grows and learns her way in an unfamiliar realm, and a found family. I loved the dynamics between each character in the group and how they balanced each other out.
Blaise is your typical dark, broody man, Finlay is your devil may care but with a hidden soft side, Cas is your rambunctious friends that would do anything for you, Kipp is the older brother type, Darrya is the best friend every girl needs, and Wren is everyone’s little sister.
I love Kate’s outlook on everything and her empathy and good heart, but not willing to take shit from anyone.
The book ended on a cliffhanger and I already cannot wait for the next to come out!
I loved every bit of this story and all of the references to Celtic Lore. It’s very rare in popular media to have the Fae be represented accurately with Celtic Lore.
It had all of the elements from my favorite series’ growing up of intense love triangles, mysteries, following the main character as she grows and learns her way in an unfamiliar realm, and a found family. I loved the dynamics between each character in the group and how they balanced each other out.
Blaise is your typical dark, broody man, Finlay is your devil may care but with a hidden soft side, Cas is your rambunctious friends that would do anything for you, Kipp is the older brother type, Darrya is the best friend every girl needs, and Wren is everyone’s little sister.
I love Kate’s outlook on everything and her empathy and good heart, but not willing to take shit from anyone.
The book ended on a cliffhanger and I already cannot wait for the next to come out!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 21, 2023
First debut from Jayme Hunt and did she ever just blow me away.
“I’m not the child you last knew. I haven’t been for a very long time. In fact, I probably haven’t been that child since the day I saw what I thought was your dead body.”
We follow this story with the FMC Kate and her life 10 years after losing her father and moving with her mom from California to Colorado, there within the mountains wilderness does she start having strange encounters. It isn't until one day she follows a trail to the river that will change her life.
This book is full of magic, sexual tension (why choose trop, next book?), and hidden secrets with found family.
I devoured this book and did not want to set it down. The author had me drawn in and in need of more and more. (the tension though between our FMC and our 2 MMC is just amazing.)
I can't believe I waited this long to read it!
“I’m not the child you last knew. I haven’t been for a very long time. In fact, I probably haven’t been that child since the day I saw what I thought was your dead body.”
We follow this story with the FMC Kate and her life 10 years after losing her father and moving with her mom from California to Colorado, there within the mountains wilderness does she start having strange encounters. It isn't until one day she follows a trail to the river that will change her life.
This book is full of magic, sexual tension (why choose trop, next book?), and hidden secrets with found family.
I devoured this book and did not want to set it down. The author had me drawn in and in need of more and more. (the tension though between our FMC and our 2 MMC is just amazing.)
I can't believe I waited this long to read it!
February 15, 2023
I received an ARC copy of this in exchange for an honest review. I would say this is 3.75 star! I will say the beginning/middle is a little slow for me. The world building was intriguing, and kept it very traditional fae types. What I found different was this was a modern day girl being thrown into a fae realm not “normal” girl in a different world setting. There’s like this love triangle going on that I cannot get enough of. The built up tension is 🤌🏼🤌🏼🤌🏼 I need more spice, which I heard is coming full force in book 2. The CLIFFHANGER. I closed the case on my kindle, and stared at the wall for a solid two minutes trying to wrap my head around it. I enjoyed mainly the last bit of the book. Enough to read book 2 😍 I need to see how the love triangle plays out.
February 1, 2023
thank you jayme hunt for this arc copy
first, i’m a little confused with the cover since it does not have a super strong connection to the plot in the book. the book itself was interesting, but i felt like there wasn’t much happening, yet this were happening? does that make sense? i also wish it had more romance to it, i almost feel like it was on the verge of being a subplot. i’m not gonna lie the main character kinda got on my nerves sometimes. her feelings were all over the place and she was lowkey mean sometimes. overall it was a good book, i just think some things could have been paced/explained better.
first, i’m a little confused with the cover since it does not have a super strong connection to the plot in the book. the book itself was interesting, but i felt like there wasn’t much happening, yet this were happening? does that make sense? i also wish it had more romance to it, i almost feel like it was on the verge of being a subplot. i’m not gonna lie the main character kinda got on my nerves sometimes. her feelings were all over the place and she was lowkey mean sometimes. overall it was a good book, i just think some things could have been paced/explained better.
February 15, 2023
*I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This is the first book in a series full of magic, mystery, and adventure. This felt more like a YA fantasy to me than an adult fantasy, and the author does a good job building a fantasy world and magic system. The FMC is independent and bold, but I wish more time had been spent developing her character before her life began taking sudden wild turns. The found family, love triangle, and secret destiny tropes were especially fun. The book's second half pulled me in, and the cliffhanger ending left me wanting to know what happens next. This series has potential.
This is the first book in a series full of magic, mystery, and adventure. This felt more like a YA fantasy to me than an adult fantasy, and the author does a good job building a fantasy world and magic system. The FMC is independent and bold, but I wish more time had been spent developing her character before her life began taking sudden wild turns. The found family, love triangle, and secret destiny tropes were especially fun. The book's second half pulled me in, and the cliffhanger ending left me wanting to know what happens next. This series has potential.
August 15, 2023
So much fun and easy to read. I was drawn in to the Fae world and the characters living there. I quickly became invested in their dynamics and relationships. Despite everyone having their own stories, they quickly became such a little found family. I loved the banter between everyone. I so badly wanted to be a part of this group and be friends with everyone! The nods to Celtic lore add another level of intrigue and left me eager to learn more about the mythology. I can't wait to start the next book and continue their quest.
September 17, 2023
Excuse the fuck out of me? That cliffhanger was RUDE. (In the best way.)
Absolutely loved this book. Already downloaded book 2. Writing this while it loads on my kindle actually. There's so much to love here. The Celtic Lore, the relatable FMC, the found family!!! And the love interests?!? Yes. I don't know about yall. But seems like a good opportunity for a why choose. Especially with how they both answered the riddle!! 🔥
Anyways. 5/5 ⭐️
Kinda sad this sat on my tbr for so long but at least I'm reading it now!!
Absolutely loved this book. Already downloaded book 2. Writing this while it loads on my kindle actually. There's so much to love here. The Celtic Lore, the relatable FMC, the found family!!! And the love interests?!? Yes. I don't know about yall. But seems like a good opportunity for a why choose. Especially with how they both answered the riddle!! 🔥
Anyways. 5/5 ⭐️
Kinda sad this sat on my tbr for so long but at least I'm reading it now!!
April 21, 2023
I love everything about this book. The beginning was quick but for good reason- to get the good parts. That little love triangle though - yes please ! It did leave off as a cliffhanger but it wasn't so bad. I typically have a strong dislike towards them. This one was top tier! Most of my questions throughout the book were answered so that was very nice. I feel like the second book will definitely be more considering that a lot has been set with this first one. We can get to the juicier parts !
June 19, 2023
This was a really great debut novel! It didn’t make you wait to know what the plot was going to be, it gave you an idea of the premise very early on but didn’t give away so much that you couldn’t still be surprised. All of the characters are described so well and that really allowed me to have a connection with them. The only reason why it wasn’t 5 stars is because I wanting a little more romance and it didn’t quite reach that for me. It’s definitely very good and binge worthy. I finished it in just one sitting.
February 15, 2023
A great debut effort from Jayme Hunt! This is a refreshingly well written fantasy novel, making it a fun and easy read. I was drawn in to the Fae world and the characters living there, quickly becoming invested in their relationships and quest. The nods to Celtic lore add another level of intrigue. I devoured the first book in two days, and can't wait for the next book!
June 29, 2023
So glad I decided to read Marked by Fate. It’s a beautiful story of found family as well as seeing Kate grow into herself and discover things about herself that she never knew nor expected as someone who was born/raised in the human world. You fall in love with each character that is introduced and I cannot wait to learn more about them and the journey they are embarking on in book 2.
April 29, 2024
My friend’s friend wrote this book so I had to check it out. Wow I was so impressed! I’ve started to get into the fantasy world of books lately and this one was so captivating! I love the characters, the love triangle and the quest/task at hand. Will definitely read book 2. I can’t wait to meet the author!
November 27, 2024
2.5 stars. It was free with Kindle unlimited.
It started out strong, but I lost interest in the last 25%. I wasn't into the odd love triangle. I spent too much time trying to figure that out. Normally there are well placed clues to end game, but if they were there I missed them. So I struggled with feelings connected to either of the male leads. And I found myself annoyed with Kate.
It started out strong, but I lost interest in the last 25%. I wasn't into the odd love triangle. I spent too much time trying to figure that out. Normally there are well placed clues to end game, but if they were there I missed them. So I struggled with feelings connected to either of the male leads. And I found myself annoyed with Kate.
February 14, 2023
I sense a love triangle beginning to form and I need to know what happens. This book as fantasy romance, slow burn, new found family, twist and ends with a cliffhanger. I can’t wait for the second book.
May 21, 2023
2.5 rounded up to 3 for Goodreads.
To be blunt, this wasn't for me. It seems like it should be right up my alley, but I just didn't care for it. It gives off big horse girl energy, if that's something you're into.
To be blunt, this wasn't for me. It seems like it should be right up my alley, but I just didn't care for it. It gives off big horse girl energy, if that's something you're into.
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