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Fit for the Throne: The Trial of Ten
The Selection meets the Hunger Games but with Fae…
Nothing makes any sense. In the space of one night, I’ve gone from orphaned party girl to the captive of some broody Fae who’s telling me I have to compete in a supernatural reality show to claim the Eternal Throne. Umm…What?
Clearly, my drink has been spiked, or I’m losing my flipping mind, but no one will listen to me. Least of all, Exekiel V’alin, the powerful and frustratingly drool-worthy, Fae bastard who brought me here.
All I want is to go back home, but the only way out of the Games is to play them. And the more I play, the more I discover that my life has never been my own, and the secrets that surround me are deep enough to drown in…literally.
If you can’t get enough of Laura Thalassa, Sarah J. Maas or Jennifer L. Armentrout, then fall into this spicy, New Adult, enemies to lovers, fantasy romance.
Authors This book contains mature themes and includes dubc, violence, and open door scenes intended for an audience of 18+
Nothing makes any sense. In the space of one night, I’ve gone from orphaned party girl to the captive of some broody Fae who’s telling me I have to compete in a supernatural reality show to claim the Eternal Throne. Umm…What?
Clearly, my drink has been spiked, or I’m losing my flipping mind, but no one will listen to me. Least of all, Exekiel V’alin, the powerful and frustratingly drool-worthy, Fae bastard who brought me here.
All I want is to go back home, but the only way out of the Games is to play them. And the more I play, the more I discover that my life has never been my own, and the secrets that surround me are deep enough to drown in…literally.
If you can’t get enough of Laura Thalassa, Sarah J. Maas or Jennifer L. Armentrout, then fall into this spicy, New Adult, enemies to lovers, fantasy romance.
Authors This book contains mature themes and includes dubc, violence, and open door scenes intended for an audience of 18+
359 pages, Paperback
Published January 19, 2023
154 people are currently reading
2449 people want to read
About the author
S. McPherson
26 books276 followersHey there, Pixies,
Welcome to my playground.
If you'd like to learn a bit more about me, feel free to send me a message and/or read on:
S. McPherson is a young British expat living in Dubai and working as a kindergarten teacher. When she is not at work immersed in a world of imagination and fantasy created by the children, she is immersed in her own worlds of imagination and fantasy at home, dreaming up tales and writing them down.
Fit for the Throne is S. McPherson’s latest series full of hope, heart and heat!!
Welcome to my playground.
If you'd like to learn a bit more about me, feel free to send me a message and/or read on:
S. McPherson is a young British expat living in Dubai and working as a kindergarten teacher. When she is not at work immersed in a world of imagination and fantasy created by the children, she is immersed in her own worlds of imagination and fantasy at home, dreaming up tales and writing them down.
Fit for the Throne is S. McPherson’s latest series full of hope, heart and heat!!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
February 15, 2023
so many good things
I could not believe the way this story gripped me. I am so picky on fantasy because I don’t like slow parts. This book was full speed ahead with smüt, spice and everything so nice. A true enemies to lovers with hate to love you. The world building was so fun and the characters personalities just shined so bright. Def worth the read. Cannot wait for more.
I could not believe the way this story gripped me. I am so picky on fantasy because I don’t like slow parts. This book was full speed ahead with smüt, spice and everything so nice. A true enemies to lovers with hate to love you. The world building was so fun and the characters personalities just shined so bright. Def worth the read. Cannot wait for more.
February 11, 2023
I received an ARC for an honest review. First, I’d like to say that writing fantasy is tough, creating worlds and characters that don’t exist in real life is daunting, so kudos to the author for creating this special piece of work.
*some minor spoilers*
I have always liked hunger games because of the competition trope, which made me like the idea of this book immediately. Enter Varialla con Hastings an orphan in the human realm who is taken away to another world where her true identity is known to everyone BUT her! She is chosen to be a contestant on a show called “Fit For the Throne” where she will enter a battle with 100 others who are all vying to be the winner and find their mates. However, Varialla’s true origin and hidden agendas of the game council lead to unrest and chaos.
I really liked the writing style of this book although I wasn’t a huge fan of the MC or the love interest. Varialla was a little underdeveloped for me but she had redeeming qualities I did like (learning about her past, wanting to save her home). Exekiel left a lot to be desired, I would have liked more of his background and understand why the conduit chose him to be a part of the show when he is quite literally the protector of the Five Isles, to me it didn’t make a lot of sense (however, maybe that is coming in the sequel)— if he had been a member of the game council I think I would have liked him a bit more. I also disliked his nickname for Varialla.
I loved the supporting character Lucinda, Cherise, Phoebus and Maximus all added great value to the story.
I liked the character Loch, however I was not a fan of the father/daughter/lover language. It didn’t sit well with me and I found myself trying to skim past intimacy scenes that involved them—this made certain parts of the books hard to read/skip over.
Ultimately, I did like the book and really appreciated the cliffhanger. I would definitely read the sequel!
*some minor spoilers*
I have always liked hunger games because of the competition trope, which made me like the idea of this book immediately. Enter Varialla con Hastings an orphan in the human realm who is taken away to another world where her true identity is known to everyone BUT her! She is chosen to be a contestant on a show called “Fit For the Throne” where she will enter a battle with 100 others who are all vying to be the winner and find their mates. However, Varialla’s true origin and hidden agendas of the game council lead to unrest and chaos.
I really liked the writing style of this book although I wasn’t a huge fan of the MC or the love interest. Varialla was a little underdeveloped for me but she had redeeming qualities I did like (learning about her past, wanting to save her home). Exekiel left a lot to be desired, I would have liked more of his background and understand why the conduit chose him to be a part of the show when he is quite literally the protector of the Five Isles, to me it didn’t make a lot of sense (however, maybe that is coming in the sequel)— if he had been a member of the game council I think I would have liked him a bit more. I also disliked his nickname for Varialla.
I loved the supporting character Lucinda, Cherise, Phoebus and Maximus all added great value to the story.
I liked the character Loch, however I was not a fan of the father/daughter/lover language. It didn’t sit well with me and I found myself trying to skim past intimacy scenes that involved them—this made certain parts of the books hard to read/skip over.
Ultimately, I did like the book and really appreciated the cliffhanger. I would definitely read the sequel!
February 9, 2023
5 star, 3.5 spice - available Feb 14!
Taken from her world, Varialla is not only thrown into a realm she doesn’t know full of people who seem to hate her, but she’s also in a reality-tv style competition for the crown?! This enemies to lovers fantasy romance was unputdownable!
This book is so fast and fun. The realm of The Five Isles is an incredible blend of magic and tech - why couldn’t fae have cell phones or hologram maps?! With little more than a team of stylists and a welcome pack Varialla needs to learn how to play the game just to stay alive because not performing well often means a life of indentured servitude or death. She meets a variety of people, all with their own agendas, and has to figure out who she can trust - but she’s also inexplicably drawn to Exekiel V’alin aka “Protector of the Realm” aka tall, dark, and winged 🥵🥵🥵 Their banter is so good and the steam is scorching!
Some of my favourite moments: when he threatens to break every bone in the hand of another contestant for touching her (superior imo to touch her & ☠️), deadly arena battles, and what I think of as the “mate trials” - I was on the edge of my seat the whole time!
It’s hard for me to give this a spice rating.. it’s definitely spicy and there’s kind of a little bit of a love triangle briefly but without spoiling too much I’ll say there’s some magical fückery that makes her drawn to a particular person while also mentally being sort of repulsed by him. So definitely TW for SA as well as violence, blood, etc.
I didn’t like the nickname “little bud”, the phrase “holy hotness”, and some of the male characters’ dialogue felt awkward to me - BUT everything else with the book is so strong it doesn’t affect my rating.
This is one of those books that I’m sort of sad to have read an advanced copy of because the book isn’t even out yet but I’m desperate for the sequel! 😩💔
Thanks to the author for the ARC - all opinions are my own.
Taken from her world, Varialla is not only thrown into a realm she doesn’t know full of people who seem to hate her, but she’s also in a reality-tv style competition for the crown?! This enemies to lovers fantasy romance was unputdownable!
This book is so fast and fun. The realm of The Five Isles is an incredible blend of magic and tech - why couldn’t fae have cell phones or hologram maps?! With little more than a team of stylists and a welcome pack Varialla needs to learn how to play the game just to stay alive because not performing well often means a life of indentured servitude or death. She meets a variety of people, all with their own agendas, and has to figure out who she can trust - but she’s also inexplicably drawn to Exekiel V’alin aka “Protector of the Realm” aka tall, dark, and winged 🥵🥵🥵 Their banter is so good and the steam is scorching!
Some of my favourite moments: when he threatens to break every bone in the hand of another contestant for touching her (superior imo to touch her & ☠️), deadly arena battles, and what I think of as the “mate trials” - I was on the edge of my seat the whole time!
It’s hard for me to give this a spice rating.. it’s definitely spicy and there’s kind of a little bit of a love triangle briefly but without spoiling too much I’ll say there’s some magical fückery that makes her drawn to a particular person while also mentally being sort of repulsed by him. So definitely TW for SA as well as violence, blood, etc.
I didn’t like the nickname “little bud”, the phrase “holy hotness”, and some of the male characters’ dialogue felt awkward to me - BUT everything else with the book is so strong it doesn’t affect my rating.
This is one of those books that I’m sort of sad to have read an advanced copy of because the book isn’t even out yet but I’m desperate for the sequel! 😩💔
Thanks to the author for the ARC - all opinions are my own.
February 8, 2023
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Where do I start? this book people! I never thought I needed a book about a supernatural reality show filled with blood and winged men until this book came my way. Varialla is a beautiful and broken woman from a life in which she has always been rejected and to which she feels she does not belong, until she is kidnapped and taken to a world of fantastic creatures to participate in a supernatural reality show and yet she still does not belong. I liked Varialla's character from the beginning because she doesn't let anyone humiliate her (she does it enough by herself already) and she always finds a way out of embarrassing situations with a smile and her head held high. Her relationship with the tall, dark and sexy af protagonist is delicious (and often infuriating, did I mention he has WINGS?) and I loved the tension of the "enemies to lovers" that we are given from the beginning. I love fantasy and the truth is that I am looking forward to learning more about the world of Fit for the Throne and its characters. I laughed a lot, almost dropped my Kindle on the floor in despair and ended up in tears at the end, fingers crossed that this pair has a happy ending.
February 27, 2023
My first real taste of fantasy and now I’m obsessing over men with wings 🤤 I absolutely devoured this book and couldn’t put it down.
It’s got FIT men, mythical creatures, spice, drama, a lil love triangle and some very very funny characters! I caught myself laughing out loud on so many occasions! And the last 20% had me GASPING and pacing whilst reading 😂
This is the first book in the series and when I tell you I’m already counting down to book 2 😭 I am DESPERATE to know what is going to happen!!!
It’s got FIT men, mythical creatures, spice, drama, a lil love triangle and some very very funny characters! I caught myself laughing out loud on so many occasions! And the last 20% had me GASPING and pacing whilst reading 😂
This is the first book in the series and when I tell you I’m already counting down to book 2 😭 I am DESPERATE to know what is going to happen!!!
April 8, 2023
This is interesting in a good way!
The first 1/4 (almost 1/3) is so frustrating to read. The reader spends that entire time generally confused with more questions than answers. It’s very obviously deliberate because, like the heroine, we’re fed pieces of cryptic information and warnings from other characters but never enough to make us make sense to us lol. Literally, everything about her is hush hush and it’s driven home by people saying something then realizing I said too much”, so they just go mute mid convo ???
Also in that time, we’re introduced to Exekiel. He is her mate but for some reason he’s not telling her that. To her, he’s just grumpy and rude…but still possessive. And even HE is super cryptic with her.
It was very slow moving at first but when it all started coming together (maybe ch16?) it was really good! I enjoy the two mains together and feel like they compliment each other. Very much a slow burn between those two.
Lots of twists and turns with an unimaginable amount of different fantasy characters and animals. Even a pegasus!
The first 1/4 (almost 1/3) is so frustrating to read. The reader spends that entire time generally confused with more questions than answers. It’s very obviously deliberate because, like the heroine, we’re fed pieces of cryptic information and warnings from other characters but never enough to make us make sense to us lol. Literally, everything about her is hush hush and it’s driven home by people saying something then realizing I said too much”, so they just go mute mid convo ???
Also in that time, we’re introduced to Exekiel. He is her mate but for some reason he’s not telling her that. To her, he’s just grumpy and rude…but still possessive. And even HE is super cryptic with her.
It was very slow moving at first but when it all started coming together (maybe ch16?) it was really good! I enjoy the two mains together and feel like they compliment each other. Very much a slow burn between those two.
Lots of twists and turns with an unimaginable amount of different fantasy characters and animals. Even a pegasus!
February 17, 2024
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I first read this on Kindle Vella where it is told in third person. This complete version is written in first person and was just as enjoyable as the other version. Yes, there are triggers and red flags as other reviewers have stated, but it all makes for a fantastic story where right is wrong and wrong is right but right is right and wrong is wrong as well. I honestly cannot wait for the second portion to come out.
May 11, 2023
3.5 stars
--
I had a good time with this one! We are introduced to the love interest pretty quickly, and there is immediate chemistry. When I was reading it, I posted to my stories that, "This is a very horny book!!" The spice was at a perfect level for me, and I'm glad I didn't have to wait til 75% of the book to see some action.
I liked the MC (Varialla). Although there was a bit of telling not showing with respect to her survival skills, the unfolding of her past and learning more about her powers kept me intrigued throughout. Exekiel though? I love a toxic man, idc idc! I need to know more about his past and his motivations. The side characters were also charming, with Lucinda being a definite fave!
To be honest, I really didn't connect with the relationship dynamic between Varialla and Loch. It seemed like a borderline non-con trope? It just wasn't for me. At the very least, it could benefit from trigger warnings.
Some parts of the plot were pleasantly predictable, and others were genuine surprises! And this books doesn't shy away from violence -- a couple scenes had me proper shook! I'm really curious about how the politics will continue to play out among the major factions.
Overall, a fun, steamy read and good opener to a series. And that ending! I need to know what happens in Book 2!
--
I had a good time with this one! We are introduced to the love interest pretty quickly, and there is immediate chemistry. When I was reading it, I posted to my stories that, "This is a very horny book!!" The spice was at a perfect level for me, and I'm glad I didn't have to wait til 75% of the book to see some action.
I liked the MC (Varialla). Although there was a bit of telling not showing with respect to her survival skills, the unfolding of her past and learning more about her powers kept me intrigued throughout. Exekiel though? I love a toxic man, idc idc! I need to know more about his past and his motivations. The side characters were also charming, with Lucinda being a definite fave!
To be honest, I really didn't connect with the relationship dynamic between Varialla and Loch. It seemed like a borderline non-con trope? It just wasn't for me. At the very least, it could benefit from trigger warnings.
Some parts of the plot were pleasantly predictable, and others were genuine surprises! And this books doesn't shy away from violence -- a couple scenes had me proper shook! I'm really curious about how the politics will continue to play out among the major factions.
Overall, a fun, steamy read and good opener to a series. And that ending! I need to know what happens in Book 2!
January 26, 2024
With magic, spice, and well-developed characters, ”Fit For The Throne” will leave you craving for more. Varialla von Hastings, an ordinary human girl, finds herself abducted by the enigmatic Exekiel (he has wings!) and forced to complete in a supernatural reality show that promises the coveted Eternal Throne.
From the outset, Varialla emerges as a beautiful and resilient protagonist, navigating a life filled with rejection and a sense of not belonging. She refuses to be humiliated by others. She knows she makes mistakes but she holds her head high. Her character is the epitome of “fake it until you make it.”
The world-building in "Fit For The Throne" is both magical and enthralling. Through Varialla’s point of view, we discover a rich tapestry of mythical creatures. What sets this book apart is its blend of humor and drama. I absolutely love the sarcasm that comes through. Some of the interactions between the characters made me laugh out loud. The love triangle, the drama, and the unexpected twists in the plot kept me hooked until the very end.
With its engaging plot, witty dialogue, and a touch of the supernatural, ”Fit For The Throne" is a must-read for fantasy romance enthusiasts.
From the outset, Varialla emerges as a beautiful and resilient protagonist, navigating a life filled with rejection and a sense of not belonging. She refuses to be humiliated by others. She knows she makes mistakes but she holds her head high. Her character is the epitome of “fake it until you make it.”
The world-building in "Fit For The Throne" is both magical and enthralling. Through Varialla’s point of view, we discover a rich tapestry of mythical creatures. What sets this book apart is its blend of humor and drama. I absolutely love the sarcasm that comes through. Some of the interactions between the characters made me laugh out loud. The love triangle, the drama, and the unexpected twists in the plot kept me hooked until the very end.
With its engaging plot, witty dialogue, and a touch of the supernatural, ”Fit For The Throne" is a must-read for fantasy romance enthusiasts.
June 26, 2024
shocked on how good this one is!
I loved this book! Everything from the spice, to the banter, to the deadly trials! Amazing
Fantasy Romance is book 1 in the fit For The Throne Series. The romance in this book is a enemies to lovers, where they fight their bond. The book is full if spice. Full of fantastic spicy scenes. There is also lots of adult language with the banter. The book moved at a quick pace following Varialla as she navigates her way through a deadly game marked as the unlitimate enemy of all participants. Along the way she finds more out about her own personal history, all while trying to fight a bond thats pulling her into her enemies arms. She will have to make a choice, love or her people. Varialla is strong, with a good heart. She just wants to do whats right.
Exekiel is morally gray with a determination to protect his realm, and full of secrets. The book takes place starting in contemporary times, then switches to a contemporary fantasy realm.
I loved this book! Everything from the spice, to the banter, to the deadly trials! Amazing
Fantasy Romance is book 1 in the fit For The Throne Series. The romance in this book is a enemies to lovers, where they fight their bond. The book is full if spice. Full of fantastic spicy scenes. There is also lots of adult language with the banter. The book moved at a quick pace following Varialla as she navigates her way through a deadly game marked as the unlitimate enemy of all participants. Along the way she finds more out about her own personal history, all while trying to fight a bond thats pulling her into her enemies arms. She will have to make a choice, love or her people. Varialla is strong, with a good heart. She just wants to do whats right.
Exekiel is morally gray with a determination to protect his realm, and full of secrets. The book takes place starting in contemporary times, then switches to a contemporary fantasy realm.
February 13, 2023
Fit For The Throne had me at Varialla's and Exekiel's first meeting. I couldn't believe I'll find myself engaged in such a captivating, magicallious story. A tale woven with magic and drama that leaves one on the edge of anticipation is a story right in my bookshelf. Varialla Von Hastings is a name that has a home. Because she just made a home in a place in my heart. I enjoyed reading about her struggles. In my opinion, they made her realistic, since she really didn'thave many good interactions while in the system. Just a woman trying to find her place in the world when her life has been turned upside down and thrown in her face. Literally. And Exekiel is one hot walking Fae. It's no wonder he's a favorite. He just doesn't care^_^ I'm definitely Team Exekiel all the way!! Loch can go get tored to shreds by sharks...not to quickly. He needs to suffer. The sides characters were just as interesting as the leading pair, especially Lucinda. She made me smile in her many interactions. (This is just my own fun interpretation, but I'm still trying to decide if the author plays the role of the conduit or Lucinda.)
All in all, I'll say the biggest issue was the ending. I so wanted more!! I couldn't believe it ended like that. I'm excited to read the next book even though the ending wasn't to my liking.
All in all, I'll say the biggest issue was the ending. I so wanted more!! I couldn't believe it ended like that. I'm excited to read the next book even though the ending wasn't to my liking.
June 23, 2024
If I read Holy Hotness! one more time I will fucking kill myself.
Somehow, the author seems convinced that "little bud" sounds like a sexy pet name and not an infuriating euphemism for a clitoris that would make you DNF a romance book
And truth be told, I would DNF this if it was any longer. I read it as you'd watch a D-list movie, savouring the cringe and making fun of how bad it was -- I won't spend my time on an actual review, because simply nothing was done right in this book. I wouldn't recommend you read it, unless you want to feel better about the fanfiction you wrote when you were thirteen. And I was able to make myself enjoy ACOTAR and Fourth Wing, so my standards really aren't high.
Somehow, the author seems convinced that "little bud" sounds like a sexy pet name and not an infuriating euphemism for a clitoris that would make you DNF a romance book
And truth be told, I would DNF this if it was any longer. I read it as you'd watch a D-list movie, savouring the cringe and making fun of how bad it was -- I won't spend my time on an actual review, because simply nothing was done right in this book. I wouldn't recommend you read it, unless you want to feel better about the fanfiction you wrote when you were thirteen. And I was able to make myself enjoy ACOTAR and Fourth Wing, so my standards really aren't high.
December 16, 2024
I liked this book more than I feel I should have. There are so many varied opinions on this book but I’m glad I gave it a shot and I am going to immediately read the next book. That helped in my 4 star decision over 3 stars but there is definitely room for improvement that I hope we will get in the second one. * crosses fingers *
February 18, 2023
I was intrigued by the comments about this book and wow... They didn’t lie. This book is awesome, I don’t know how I’ll endure the wait for the next part. The chemistry and the problems around the main couple? Chef kiss, I love it.
And there was a lot of plot twist and interesting things. It was worth it.
And there was a lot of plot twist and interesting things. It was worth it.
March 10, 2023
This book felt like a mash up of ACOTAR, Cruel Prince and Zodiac Academy. It is definitely spicy, and is a true enemies to lovers, fated mates fantasy romance.
The spice happened a little fast for my taste, I like a solid slow burn, but I loved the games aspect of the story and there were a couple of great plot twists.
This was my favorite of this authors books that I’ve read so far.
The spice happened a little fast for my taste, I like a solid slow burn, but I loved the games aspect of the story and there were a couple of great plot twists.
This was my favorite of this authors books that I’ve read so far.
July 11, 2024
4 ⭐️ I HATE that I liked this book. The writing style seemed juvenile at times, but the actual story line was good and got me hooked fairly quickly. I don’t think I’d recommend this to a friend, but it will live in my closet like a dirty secret x
February 25, 2023
*Speechless*
I have to admit. I do not usually go for fantasy books, BUT I AM BUYING A HARDCOPY IMMEDIATELY!!! The writing was top notch. Plot was immaculate. AND THE SPICE…
I read this book in 6 hours and felt all the feelings. I can’t wait to read the second book!
I have to admit. I do not usually go for fantasy books, BUT I AM BUYING A HARDCOPY IMMEDIATELY!!! The writing was top notch. Plot was immaculate. AND THE SPICE…
I read this book in 6 hours and felt all the feelings. I can’t wait to read the second book!
February 25, 2023
great start!
I’m so excited for the next book! I loved all the “will they, won’t they” tension. I interested to learn the full story of what happened all those years ago.
I’m so excited for the next book! I loved all the “will they, won’t they” tension. I interested to learn the full story of what happened all those years ago.
February 9, 2023
Who doesn’t love slow burns of enemies to lovers?? I love them and this series is setting up to be exactly that. This book had me hooked from page one and is an interesting fantasy book. I love the world building and the characters.
March 27, 2023
You can find this review and all my others over at Read Book. Repeat
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Actual rating of 3.5
When Varialla is kidnapped by a smoking hot stranger while on a night out, she's not too impressed. Even more so once they arrive in the Five Isles and she discovers that she now has to compete in some twisted fae game show for the crown to a kingdom she's never heard of. Varialla is just a human woman, but no one around her believes her, least of all Exekial - the fae who brought her here. With nothing else on her mind bar escaping this crazy nightmare she's found herself in, Varialla soon discovers that the only way out of the games, is through them. With her life on the line at every turn, Varialla soon discovers that the life she thought was hers was littered with secrets and lies, and that there is so much more to her than she's ever realised. Death is common in the Trial of Ten, will Varialla be able to survive long enough to learn the full truth about who she is?
I was so stoked when I received confirmation that I'd been chosen to receive an ARC copy of this book, and even more so when that copy rocked up in my mailbox! I live in Australia, so receiving physical copies of ARC books is always a huge mood lifter. After reading the synopsis for this story, I knew it was one that I wanted to read. I couldn't help but feel that the blurb read like the Hunger Games crossed with The Bachelor, and what kind of person would I be if I didn't admit to wanting to watch THAT kind of game show. This story definitely delivered on it's promise and my assumption, yet did so without getting too bogged down in the details of the TV show side of things which was nice. Yes there were scenes where Varialla's outfits were given more page time than was probably necessary, but I didn't really have a problem with that. It helped to round out the image in my head. I've always been one that has enjoyed deeper descriptions of characters, their outfits and the world around them, so this worked well for me.
The story itself had a fantastic and unique premise and it's what drew me in and had me wanting to read it. One issue that I did have however, was that I felt like there was a lot of things going on and at times the story became a bit convoluted and chaotic. We had the game show, many, many characters, the story of Varialla competing in said game show, the relationship between her and Exekiel, and we also had the deeper story line of Varialla's true identity and heritage. When laid out like that, it doesn't seem like a lot, but the way that it was written did make it feel like, at times, there was way too much going on. Don't get me wrong, I loved that there is so much to unpack here and that there is so many storylines which will make way for more instalments, I just felt like McPherson may have tried to tackle too much in the first instalment for the series. In saying that though, I'm not really sure whether any of the plot threads could have been left until a later instalment or not. You kind of needed all of that information to get a fuller picture on what was going on. Initially I struggled a little because there was a lot to take in, but by the last quarter of the book I found myself really invested in the story and Varialla and finding out where they were headed.
The characters were fun, and I really enjoyed the character of Varialla's friend in the games, the witch (I want to say Lucinda, but I'm not 100% certain whether that's her name), she was probably my favourite if I'm honest. I did not like Exekiel at all. I'm a big fan of close proximity and enemies to lovers, but there's just something about him that I really didn't like and even when he was saving Varialla from life threatening events that she found herself in, it still didn't redeem him in my eyes. I know that there's more than meets the eye and that there's going to be a deeper story to his character and his involvement in being the Protector of the Realm and the terrible things that he's done in the name of BEING the protector, but at this point in the story, I just really do not like him at all. So the spicy scenes between him and Varialla really did nothing for me other than make me dislike him more and more. Varialla is a strong character, she's been through a lot and some of this is touched on throughout the story. I did feel like she lost a little bit of that fierce female energy in her reaction to Exekiel, though I understand the reaction she was having was due to the other thing and not just because she's a lust crazed female who can't say no to a pretty face. I do wish that she was able to assert more power over that attraction though. For someone who I took to be so street smart, I did find that she was a teeny bit dense when it came to all the dropped info alluding to her true heritage as well as the connection to Exekiel. I'd picked the Exekiel thing from the second that it was mentioned as a possibility and something that is used in the games, and I'd pretty much picked up what she was not long after the first hints had been accidentally dropped by other characters. That denseness could have simply been just an illustration on how difficult it can be for us to be objective about things when it comes to ourselves, but I feel like it was more used to keep the suspense a little bit longer about certain aspects of Varialla's character and the story. Our initial meeting of a certain sea swept character had me intrigued, but McPherson did an absolutely fantastic job of illustrating the relationship between them and Varialla, as well as Varialla's distate and uncomfortable feelings towards the supposed relationship they were meant to have. Being able to really have your reader feeling such distaste and revulsion due to memories and feelings is a fantastic ability, and I really felt what Varialla was feeling towards this particular situation. In saying that, McPherson also did a great job of getting me to feel Varialla's disgust at herself for her feelings towards Exekiel as well, especially after she began to learn more about her heritage and what had been happening in the world and his involvement in it.
I feel like I wanted a bit more world exploration, there is a great world that has been built in this initial instalment, and there's a rich history as well which are fantastic foundations for a solid world and story. I'm hoping that we get to explore the world itself a little bit more in the next instalment as I feel like it was a bit of a lost opportunity here. Things were touched on and the world hierarchy and functionality was easily understood, I just wanted more from the world side of things I think. I still think the idea of the games is absolutely fantastic and I'm looking forward to seeing what happens with that as we didn't get to see who was crowned the winner. I feel that some people might look at this as a messy smut fest with no real depth or bones to it, where for me, this was a decent first instalment for a series that felt a little bit convoluted at times, but I feel that it did a great job at giving us an overview of the world, how it works, the key issues here, one of the biggest ones being the political side of everything and where Varialla stands amongst it all. It set up all the foundations for a strong story to progress from and I am really looking forward to where it's going to head. Do I feel that this story could have been streamlined a little more to make it a bit easier to follow, yeah maybe. Do I still feel that it's an interesting read that kept me entertained and wanting to know what happens next? Yes. Books don't have to be perfect to be enjoyed, they just have to be able to grab the reader and have them empathising with the character's plight, and this one did that for me. Yes the pacing was a little bit too slow moving at times, but I put that down to the fact that there was a lot to take in and in order to not just info dump that, the story did have to slow down a lot and take it's time working through details.
All in all, this was an entertaining and unique read and I'm looking forward to seeing what happens as the series progresses. I'm not a huge fan of the love interest at this point, but I'm open to McPherson being able to change that as Exekiel and Varialla's character evolve with the story.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Actual rating of 3.5
When Varialla is kidnapped by a smoking hot stranger while on a night out, she's not too impressed. Even more so once they arrive in the Five Isles and she discovers that she now has to compete in some twisted fae game show for the crown to a kingdom she's never heard of. Varialla is just a human woman, but no one around her believes her, least of all Exekial - the fae who brought her here. With nothing else on her mind bar escaping this crazy nightmare she's found herself in, Varialla soon discovers that the only way out of the games, is through them. With her life on the line at every turn, Varialla soon discovers that the life she thought was hers was littered with secrets and lies, and that there is so much more to her than she's ever realised. Death is common in the Trial of Ten, will Varialla be able to survive long enough to learn the full truth about who she is?
I was so stoked when I received confirmation that I'd been chosen to receive an ARC copy of this book, and even more so when that copy rocked up in my mailbox! I live in Australia, so receiving physical copies of ARC books is always a huge mood lifter. After reading the synopsis for this story, I knew it was one that I wanted to read. I couldn't help but feel that the blurb read like the Hunger Games crossed with The Bachelor, and what kind of person would I be if I didn't admit to wanting to watch THAT kind of game show. This story definitely delivered on it's promise and my assumption, yet did so without getting too bogged down in the details of the TV show side of things which was nice. Yes there were scenes where Varialla's outfits were given more page time than was probably necessary, but I didn't really have a problem with that. It helped to round out the image in my head. I've always been one that has enjoyed deeper descriptions of characters, their outfits and the world around them, so this worked well for me.
The story itself had a fantastic and unique premise and it's what drew me in and had me wanting to read it. One issue that I did have however, was that I felt like there was a lot of things going on and at times the story became a bit convoluted and chaotic. We had the game show, many, many characters, the story of Varialla competing in said game show, the relationship between her and Exekiel, and we also had the deeper story line of Varialla's true identity and heritage. When laid out like that, it doesn't seem like a lot, but the way that it was written did make it feel like, at times, there was way too much going on. Don't get me wrong, I loved that there is so much to unpack here and that there is so many storylines which will make way for more instalments, I just felt like McPherson may have tried to tackle too much in the first instalment for the series. In saying that though, I'm not really sure whether any of the plot threads could have been left until a later instalment or not. You kind of needed all of that information to get a fuller picture on what was going on. Initially I struggled a little because there was a lot to take in, but by the last quarter of the book I found myself really invested in the story and Varialla and finding out where they were headed.
The characters were fun, and I really enjoyed the character of Varialla's friend in the games, the witch (I want to say Lucinda, but I'm not 100% certain whether that's her name), she was probably my favourite if I'm honest. I did not like Exekiel at all. I'm a big fan of close proximity and enemies to lovers, but there's just something about him that I really didn't like and even when he was saving Varialla from life threatening events that she found herself in, it still didn't redeem him in my eyes. I know that there's more than meets the eye and that there's going to be a deeper story to his character and his involvement in being the Protector of the Realm and the terrible things that he's done in the name of BEING the protector, but at this point in the story, I just really do not like him at all. So the spicy scenes between him and Varialla really did nothing for me other than make me dislike him more and more. Varialla is a strong character, she's been through a lot and some of this is touched on throughout the story. I did feel like she lost a little bit of that fierce female energy in her reaction to Exekiel, though I understand the reaction she was having was due to the other thing and not just because she's a lust crazed female who can't say no to a pretty face. I do wish that she was able to assert more power over that attraction though. For someone who I took to be so street smart, I did find that she was a teeny bit dense when it came to all the dropped info alluding to her true heritage as well as the connection to Exekiel. I'd picked the Exekiel thing from the second that it was mentioned as a possibility and something that is used in the games, and I'd pretty much picked up what she was not long after the first hints had been accidentally dropped by other characters. That denseness could have simply been just an illustration on how difficult it can be for us to be objective about things when it comes to ourselves, but I feel like it was more used to keep the suspense a little bit longer about certain aspects of Varialla's character and the story. Our initial meeting of a certain sea swept character had me intrigued, but McPherson did an absolutely fantastic job of illustrating the relationship between them and Varialla, as well as Varialla's distate and uncomfortable feelings towards the supposed relationship they were meant to have. Being able to really have your reader feeling such distaste and revulsion due to memories and feelings is a fantastic ability, and I really felt what Varialla was feeling towards this particular situation. In saying that, McPherson also did a great job of getting me to feel Varialla's disgust at herself for her feelings towards Exekiel as well, especially after she began to learn more about her heritage and what had been happening in the world and his involvement in it.
I feel like I wanted a bit more world exploration, there is a great world that has been built in this initial instalment, and there's a rich history as well which are fantastic foundations for a solid world and story. I'm hoping that we get to explore the world itself a little bit more in the next instalment as I feel like it was a bit of a lost opportunity here. Things were touched on and the world hierarchy and functionality was easily understood, I just wanted more from the world side of things I think. I still think the idea of the games is absolutely fantastic and I'm looking forward to seeing what happens with that as we didn't get to see who was crowned the winner. I feel that some people might look at this as a messy smut fest with no real depth or bones to it, where for me, this was a decent first instalment for a series that felt a little bit convoluted at times, but I feel that it did a great job at giving us an overview of the world, how it works, the key issues here, one of the biggest ones being the political side of everything and where Varialla stands amongst it all. It set up all the foundations for a strong story to progress from and I am really looking forward to where it's going to head. Do I feel that this story could have been streamlined a little more to make it a bit easier to follow, yeah maybe. Do I still feel that it's an interesting read that kept me entertained and wanting to know what happens next? Yes. Books don't have to be perfect to be enjoyed, they just have to be able to grab the reader and have them empathising with the character's plight, and this one did that for me. Yes the pacing was a little bit too slow moving at times, but I put that down to the fact that there was a lot to take in and in order to not just info dump that, the story did have to slow down a lot and take it's time working through details.
All in all, this was an entertaining and unique read and I'm looking forward to seeing what happens as the series progresses. I'm not a huge fan of the love interest at this point, but I'm open to McPherson being able to change that as Exekiel and Varialla's character evolve with the story.
June 19, 2023
I am sorry, but I did not enjoy this book. The main female lead was just horribly stupid. She couldn't do anything because she kept having sex. She constantly being assaulted and couldn't tap into her power to help herself or anyone else. I am so sick and tired reading about women that act like they can't function because they find a man attractive. At the end when she said she was in love with the main male lead, I wanted to throw my tablet. How could she fall in love with someone she never had a connection with. they didn't talk about anything of value. He was just using her to get information. And he still wanted to kill her when she professed her love. He knew she was his mate, whey wouldn't he help her learn about who she was, why keep her in the dark, why allow others to harm her. He was really shitty. Also, what kind of protector was he. He was working for the bad guys, he didn't even protect the child. He knew she was captured and they hurt her but he didn't do anything to try and save her. I don't think I will read part two because I can't stand to read about a dumb sex crazed female.
September 14, 2023
I’m torn. This was actually pretty good in parts. Exciting. Action packed. But a lot of it turned me off. The stuff with Loch especially. I can’t take that borderline incest garbage that’s going on with those two. He’s the king of the dubious consent. So no thank you. I get off this train here. But, I would love to see how it all ends up. So I’ll have to find a very thorough review after the whole series is finished and see how it ended.
May 14, 2023
A Scorcher
*****Spoilers*****
Firstly, I feel like this is one of THE hottest books I have ever read. Triple the maximum stars for creativity. Exekiel is the guardian of Five Isles, a supernatural community merged by some kind of magical something and he first meets Varialla when he goes to retrieve her so that she competes in this supernatural reality show competition for the next ruler of the Isles. As a human, she thinks, Varialla isn't sure why she's there but despite the dire consequences for leaving the competition, she plans to make a quiet retreat somehow since there are so many contestants no one could care about her. Except when she's announced as one of the top 10 players and gets a seat on the grand stand. No slipping away for her realistically, but she tries anyway, with no information about even how to get back to the earth realm and ends up being attacked. This time she's saved by Exekiel who sucks poison from her body. Nobody can tell her who she is or who her parents were so Varialla is an unknown and has to rely on others to give her clues and support. Unfortunately, she's only taking in parts of the full story and going based on that partial information instead of doing more to get a better understanding of her role once she knows who and what she is, which is a siren, and expectations of her.
Varialla and Exekiel in the meantime have encounters where their chemistry and attraction for one another build and build. They're also on different sides of a war lost long ago by Varialla's people who she's determined to save. She's the dark queen and Exekiel the realm's protector. The only drawback is that in order to save her people, she has to kill Exekiel who we find out is her mate. Meanwhile, Varialla is bound to another siren, Loch who has carried their people in her absence. The bond she shares with Loch is manufactured when she was an egg and Varialla feels something for Loch but it's nowhere near what she feels for Exekiel. At the end of this book, Varialla's two worlds clash and she takes steps that don't seem like they'll be beneficial long term or even smart in my opinion. Just wish she'd stop taking her information so heavily from one side and actually have a conversation with Exekiel and perhaps use a source not tainted with a motive to get a clearer picture of what's going on around her.
A few things. More details and world building is needed. We get thrown in for sure which is fine, but at times it feels like the author skips letting the reader know the whys and hows in the process, however delivered would be fine, as long as the story doesn't leap and leave the reader behind so much. This one got off to a slow start so was kind of a jumble to start and I wasn't sure I'd even wanted to finish. Good thing it picked up with Varialla quickly making to it the Isles which is when the book picked up. Speaking of, I think I'm just getting jaded but so annoying when the main character doesn't know anything about who they really are, but made so much worse when they make a bunch of decisions on their limited knowledge which Varialla does repeatedly in this book. I was so frustrated with the latter especially because done right, the former can add intrigue and keeps the curiosity and engagement at a maximum for the reader. Spelling and grammatical errors and inconsistencies and inaccuracies, my goodness I would've given the book a 5 if not for those and because they're throughout the book, consistently distract from the story. What's the deal with Exekiel disappearing during many of Varialla's more dangerous moments? I'm wondering if there's something behind it that'll be revealed in future books.
All in all though, the book was different and kept me turning pages, wanting to know what happens next.
*****Spoilers*****
Firstly, I feel like this is one of THE hottest books I have ever read. Triple the maximum stars for creativity. Exekiel is the guardian of Five Isles, a supernatural community merged by some kind of magical something and he first meets Varialla when he goes to retrieve her so that she competes in this supernatural reality show competition for the next ruler of the Isles. As a human, she thinks, Varialla isn't sure why she's there but despite the dire consequences for leaving the competition, she plans to make a quiet retreat somehow since there are so many contestants no one could care about her. Except when she's announced as one of the top 10 players and gets a seat on the grand stand. No slipping away for her realistically, but she tries anyway, with no information about even how to get back to the earth realm and ends up being attacked. This time she's saved by Exekiel who sucks poison from her body. Nobody can tell her who she is or who her parents were so Varialla is an unknown and has to rely on others to give her clues and support. Unfortunately, she's only taking in parts of the full story and going based on that partial information instead of doing more to get a better understanding of her role once she knows who and what she is, which is a siren, and expectations of her.
Varialla and Exekiel in the meantime have encounters where their chemistry and attraction for one another build and build. They're also on different sides of a war lost long ago by Varialla's people who she's determined to save. She's the dark queen and Exekiel the realm's protector. The only drawback is that in order to save her people, she has to kill Exekiel who we find out is her mate. Meanwhile, Varialla is bound to another siren, Loch who has carried their people in her absence. The bond she shares with Loch is manufactured when she was an egg and Varialla feels something for Loch but it's nowhere near what she feels for Exekiel. At the end of this book, Varialla's two worlds clash and she takes steps that don't seem like they'll be beneficial long term or even smart in my opinion. Just wish she'd stop taking her information so heavily from one side and actually have a conversation with Exekiel and perhaps use a source not tainted with a motive to get a clearer picture of what's going on around her.
A few things. More details and world building is needed. We get thrown in for sure which is fine, but at times it feels like the author skips letting the reader know the whys and hows in the process, however delivered would be fine, as long as the story doesn't leap and leave the reader behind so much. This one got off to a slow start so was kind of a jumble to start and I wasn't sure I'd even wanted to finish. Good thing it picked up with Varialla quickly making to it the Isles which is when the book picked up. Speaking of, I think I'm just getting jaded but so annoying when the main character doesn't know anything about who they really are, but made so much worse when they make a bunch of decisions on their limited knowledge which Varialla does repeatedly in this book. I was so frustrated with the latter especially because done right, the former can add intrigue and keeps the curiosity and engagement at a maximum for the reader. Spelling and grammatical errors and inconsistencies and inaccuracies, my goodness I would've given the book a 5 if not for those and because they're throughout the book, consistently distract from the story. What's the deal with Exekiel disappearing during many of Varialla's more dangerous moments? I'm wondering if there's something behind it that'll be revealed in future books.
All in all though, the book was different and kept me turning pages, wanting to know what happens next.
February 10, 2023
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
❗️Disclaimer: This review isn’t to tell the author that they are bad or not. This review is simply based on my own personal opinions about the book, not the author, and what i liked or disliked. I really suggest that you give a book a chance before you form your own opinions and decide if you like it or not. ❗️
Fit for the throne is a hunter games inspired book that follows our main character Varialla as she competes in a reality show where the winner becomes queen of this new world she is thrust into. The book concept was interesting and i had so many hopes for this book but unfortunately it was not for me.
Things I liked
- the writing
- Some of the characters like Lucinda and Maximus.
- The magical creatures and their powers.
- The world
- The MC powers were great and something I don’t remember seeing before.
❗️If you don’t want to read why i didn’t like it please stop reading now. ❗️
Things I wished were better or I disliked
- I wish there was more world building. I feel like we are thrown into a new world that seems amazing but that we know almost nothing of. Trough the story we do get more world building but at the start I was really lost. Also I would of have liked to see how was her life before taking her to a whole new world was.
- I disliked the MC and the Love interest. The MC was annoying, immature and didn’t think things through. The love interest for me was a walking red flag in a bad way.
- I wished there were more sweet moments without the MC and LI talking about intercourse or having intercourse.
- At the very beggining I really did like the book but as I read more I just couldn’t get behind the red flags and immature things they did.
- I didn’t particularly love the MC relationship with the other guy. I found it weird and disturbing.
In the end there are more stuff that I didn’t like but I will not comment on it since they are spoilers. Overall this book was just not for me, from very first chapters I couldn’t get into it even though I liked the concept.
If you like hunter games inspired, lust enemies to lovers relationships, not a lot of world building in the beginning, magical creatures, and are willing to look past the red flags maybe you might like the book. I just wasn’t the intended reader this book was reaching for and I couldn’t look past those things. I do hope that the author can take this story to a better place and create a much better story but I personally will not be continuing this series.
❗️Disclaimer: This review isn’t to tell the author that they are bad or not. This review is simply based on my own personal opinions about the book, not the author, and what i liked or disliked. I really suggest that you give a book a chance before you form your own opinions and decide if you like it or not. ❗️
Fit for the throne is a hunter games inspired book that follows our main character Varialla as she competes in a reality show where the winner becomes queen of this new world she is thrust into. The book concept was interesting and i had so many hopes for this book but unfortunately it was not for me.
Things I liked
- the writing
- Some of the characters like Lucinda and Maximus.
- The magical creatures and their powers.
- The world
- The MC powers were great and something I don’t remember seeing before.
❗️If you don’t want to read why i didn’t like it please stop reading now. ❗️
Things I wished were better or I disliked
- I wish there was more world building. I feel like we are thrown into a new world that seems amazing but that we know almost nothing of. Trough the story we do get more world building but at the start I was really lost. Also I would of have liked to see how was her life before taking her to a whole new world was.
- I disliked the MC and the Love interest. The MC was annoying, immature and didn’t think things through. The love interest for me was a walking red flag in a bad way.
- I wished there were more sweet moments without the MC and LI talking about intercourse or having intercourse.
- At the very beggining I really did like the book but as I read more I just couldn’t get behind the red flags and immature things they did.
- I didn’t particularly love the MC relationship with the other guy. I found it weird and disturbing.
In the end there are more stuff that I didn’t like but I will not comment on it since they are spoilers. Overall this book was just not for me, from very first chapters I couldn’t get into it even though I liked the concept.
If you like hunter games inspired, lust enemies to lovers relationships, not a lot of world building in the beginning, magical creatures, and are willing to look past the red flags maybe you might like the book. I just wasn’t the intended reader this book was reaching for and I couldn’t look past those things. I do hope that the author can take this story to a better place and create a much better story but I personally will not be continuing this series.
November 16, 2023
toxic
The plot and fantasy world were interesting, but the relationships were grossly toxic and there were major plot holes.
Her mate wants to kill her, ok I can accept that as a common trope, but it’s only good when it’s within a reluctant- protector mode. This tried to do that but majorly failed. Her “mate” found it hot and rewatched her being tortured on a rack??? and she thought that was hot too?!? The story lost me there I’m sorry. Not to mention the very creepy non-consensual interactions with a father figure..again seriously not in a hot way. Basically, fed flags in fantasy should be hot, these were just gross.
The plot had potential, but again there were plot holes and not enough realistic development to salvage the rest. Time went by oddly quick and yet she didn’t really do much in that time - what about really using that amazing library that was presented as a promising resource?? Why not actually try to figure things out?? The female lead is constantly screwed over, but she really doesn’t do anything to help herself. Im sure she’ll eventually miraculously be the savior, but it won’t be believable or worth the frustration of getting there.
The plot and fantasy world were interesting, but the relationships were grossly toxic and there were major plot holes.
Her mate wants to kill her, ok I can accept that as a common trope, but it’s only good when it’s within a reluctant- protector mode. This tried to do that but majorly failed. Her “mate” found it hot and rewatched her being tortured on a rack??? and she thought that was hot too?!? The story lost me there I’m sorry. Not to mention the very creepy non-consensual interactions with a father figure..again seriously not in a hot way. Basically, fed flags in fantasy should be hot, these were just gross.
The plot had potential, but again there were plot holes and not enough realistic development to salvage the rest. Time went by oddly quick and yet she didn’t really do much in that time - what about really using that amazing library that was presented as a promising resource?? Why not actually try to figure things out?? The female lead is constantly screwed over, but she really doesn’t do anything to help herself. Im sure she’ll eventually miraculously be the savior, but it won’t be believable or worth the frustration of getting there.
March 13, 2024
I read this as opposed to listening on audible.
Tbh, I wasn't really a fan. Exekiel was insufferable from start to end.
Varialla I felt accepted things happening to her a little too quickly. Imagine being plucked from a club into a fae realm with people talking about fighting in a game for your life. Varialla just wort of....accepted it.
Also the rack arousal was so left field. And finally the bit about Loch and the father figure lover bond thing. I can understand the dynamics.
He never saw her as a child, she was always betrothed to him. Circumstances made her much younger than him.
Because of her life as a human with no attachments to the Sirens, she can only relate to him as her father. Its the only box that makes sense. Which.....understandable.
But I don't read father daughter love stories, so this was a big no for me.
Also...trauma born is not for me....all in all, it was an interesting concept. I loved the addition of the little games included so it wasn't just fight, fight, fight.
But........a lot of it was just too much for me
Tbh, I wasn't really a fan. Exekiel was insufferable from start to end.
Varialla I felt accepted things happening to her a little too quickly. Imagine being plucked from a club into a fae realm with people talking about fighting in a game for your life. Varialla just wort of....accepted it.
Also the rack arousal was so left field. And finally the bit about Loch and the father figure lover bond thing. I can understand the dynamics.
He never saw her as a child, she was always betrothed to him. Circumstances made her much younger than him.
Because of her life as a human with no attachments to the Sirens, she can only relate to him as her father. Its the only box that makes sense. Which.....understandable.
But I don't read father daughter love stories, so this was a big no for me.
Also...trauma born is not for me....all in all, it was an interesting concept. I loved the addition of the little games included so it wasn't just fight, fight, fight.
But........a lot of it was just too much for me
May 9, 2024
What a piece of shit book. I almost DNF’d multiple times but kept hoping it would get better. Nope. Exekial (what a stupid way to spell a name btw) is a sanctimonious asshole, Loch is a manipulative shit, and Miss Queen Siren is a horny idiot who can’t control herself, let alone rule anyone or anything. Bonds or not, she can’t even manage to ask questions so she’s not clueless. The miscommunication between her and her mate is frustrating and obnoxious, the forced bond with Loch is actually disgusting but at least makes for a good bad guy/conflict. But even the “good” guy is a piece of shit, which is where I can’t with this book. All the two ever do is hate fuck. There is literally no relationship beyond that, but we’re supposed to be invested in them as a couple and future rulers of this world? The entire world is also complete garbage so I guess at least they’d be appropriate given the context. Such a sick and twisted world doesn’t deserve good rulers anyway I guess.
February 26, 2023
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review and to the author: THANK YOU for writing this book! First of all, a reality show with Fae characters? Yes. I haven't read anything like that before, and I am a big fan of fae fantasy stories. I don't want to give away any spoilers, so I'll try and keep them out. The main female character, Varialla, is amazing and I loved how we are introduced to her on a night out. Then this guy comes along. This guy, who is fae by the way (que happy dance), and the tension between him and our kicka$$ main female is everything I love about slow-burn storielines. Add in the banter between these two from day one and I was hooked. This book is a must read and I can't wait to continue the series.
September 25, 2023
So this story…have you ever read a story that seemed to be moving at lightening speed and slow as molasses at the same time. This is one of them. It’s pretty much my only valid complaint. I felt like the sexual part of the book did not make sense with the pace of the world building.
The h was a likeable character. I loved her gumption and spirit. The men of this story pretty much got in my nerves immediately.
I didn’t feel chemistry between h/H. I do tend to dislike pairings based on a bond, so take that sentiment as you will.
The world building was nice and the descriptions were phenomenal. Absolutely wonderful.
I will read the sequel just because I need closure.
I would recommend this book to read if you’re in between reads of a series you like.
The h was a likeable character. I loved her gumption and spirit. The men of this story pretty much got in my nerves immediately.
I didn’t feel chemistry between h/H. I do tend to dislike pairings based on a bond, so take that sentiment as you will.
The world building was nice and the descriptions were phenomenal. Absolutely wonderful.
I will read the sequel just because I need closure.
I would recommend this book to read if you’re in between reads of a series you like.
December 23, 2023
Bad
This was just bad. It’s full of inconsistencies, the characters have no chemistry whatsoever and the plot - while in theory really good - just didn’t work because there was no connection whatsoever.
Also the romance part wasn’t romantic, but full of non-con, dub-con and just stupid things (I literally screamed when I reached the portion where the MMC talks about the rack… Barf) and the amount of violence in this book is just not making sense. It’s way too over the top and keeps happening. If these two are mates, why the eff is the MMC letting this happen to the FMC? And why the heck does he get aroused by the torture that keeps being done to the FMC???
Definitely not worth my time. This is just a big No and I’ll need to scrub my brain
This was just bad. It’s full of inconsistencies, the characters have no chemistry whatsoever and the plot - while in theory really good - just didn’t work because there was no connection whatsoever.
Also the romance part wasn’t romantic, but full of non-con, dub-con and just stupid things (I literally screamed when I reached the portion where the MMC talks about the rack… Barf) and the amount of violence in this book is just not making sense. It’s way too over the top and keeps happening. If these two are mates, why the eff is the MMC letting this happen to the FMC? And why the heck does he get aroused by the torture that keeps being done to the FMC???
Definitely not worth my time. This is just a big No and I’ll need to scrub my brain
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