Book Review: "House of Raven" by Ingrid Seymour

Ingrid Seymour’s “House of the Raven" is a captivating blend of fantasy, intrigue, and romance. Seymour’s latest introduces a richly imagined world filled with complex characters and a plot that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.

Valeria, the king’s daughter, is a total dreamer with a big heart. After her mother was killed by a Fae sorcerer, Valeria’s own life force was drained by Fae magic, which has pretty much disappeared from the human world since the fall of the Veil. But here’s the kicker: Valeria and her older sister, Amira, are secretly half-Fae, thanks to their mother’s side of the family - a fact that’s been kept hidden for a long time.

Then there's Rífíor, aka River, the leader of a Fae rebel group. He’s definitely a complex, morally gray character, and I think the author did a great job with him. He’s got his own agenda, full of goals and motivations that he doesn’t readily share - even with his closest allies. Determined to enact his long-standing plan for revenge, Rífíor is dependent on Valeria for his plan to work. Their fates are intertwined from the start and when their paths cross, it sets off a series of events that had me gripping my seat. 

 “House of the Raven" is labeled as a romance, so I thought that would be the main focus, but I was pleasantly surprised. There’s also the whole enemies-to-lovers thing going on, but it’s done really well—nothing superficial or rushed here. The way the romance develops is full of subtlety and slow-burn tension, which worked out beautifully in the end. Yes, there’s romance, including one steamy scene, but the story remains the primary focus (which I appreciated!)

Seymour does an exquisite job with this novel’s world-building. I loved how the setting drew inspiration from Spanish culture and how Seymour’s storytelling is such an immersive experience. The concept of “espiritu” (literally, the Spanish word for spirit or life-force) and the magic system built around it was particularly intriguing. The author reveals the story’s secrets little by little, so you get to piece things together and discover the truth alongside Valeria. Valeria’s character arc and growth throughout the story was on point; despite being relatively naive in the beginning, she remains feisty, stubborn, and surprisingly empathetic as certain truths are revealed throughout the novel. 

Overall, “House of the Raven” is a well-crafted fantasy novel that offers readers compelling characters, intriguing world-building, and the beginnings of a satisfying romance. This book surprised me in the best way, and I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book!

Rating: 4/5 Stars

Book Review: “Crown of Light and Shadows” by G.K. Derosa

“Crown of Light and Shadows” by G.K. Derosa is a fast-paced, enemies to lovers romantasy with all of my favorite tropes! This book would essentially be the result if “Hunger Games,” “Fourth Wing,” “Harry Potter” and “The School of Good and Evil” had a baby - a novel filled with death trials, dragon riders, sexy shadow daddies, rival schools of light and dark Fae, and magical menageries. 

Aelia Ravenwood was raised to believe she was a Kin - a human - that upon their 20th birthday are bound to a Fae for a life of servitude. However, much to her surprise, it’s revealed on her birthday that she’s been selected to attend the Conservatory of Luce in Feywood, a prestigious academy that spits out elite graduates that go on to become the king’s guard. Oh - and she’s supposedly a Light Fae (or at least, partially). She is whisked off to her new academic home by broody Professor Reign Darkthorn.

Aelia is thrown into a world where most everyone is looking out for themselves and their post-academic career as a king’s guard. With the exception of a good few - including Aelia’s new roommate, Rue - many of the Conservatory’s students hold prejudices against Aelia for being less than and weaker than the other Light Fae in attendance. Despite having challenge after challenge stacked against her and other students (and even her own teammates) trying to sabotage her tenure at the school, Aelia is stubborn, fierce, and unwilling to back down from adversity. 

With Reign’s help, Aelia meets each challenge of her trials head-on - even going as far as bonding with a dragon (an almost unheard of feat in academy history). She finds herself falling for the handsome, slightly older professor - whom we come to learn is a shadow daddy from the Court of Umbral Shadows, the Dark Fae academy across the river from the Conservatory. Despite a peace treaty between the two courts, tensions between the two schools are on the rise and a potential war looms in the not so distant future. 

I absolutely LOVED this book! While there are clear parallels between Derosa’s novel and some of the aforementioned best-sellers, this book’s storyline was unique. The world building was incredible and each scene made me wish I was there! I’m a sucker for a good student-teacher, forbidden relationship and while Aelia and Reign were not that far apart in age, I was all for the sparks flying between them. Reign is pivotal in Aelia’s growth and development and in discovering her true parentage in the novel. These two cannot stay away from each other, despite their best attempts - they are magnetic and I was here for all of Reign’s protective, “touch her and you die” vibes!

If you’re looking for a romantasy that reminds you of one of your favorites and leaves you with a cliffhanger that will have your jaw on the floor, check out G.K. Derosa’s latest.

Rating: 5/5 Stars

Book Review: "Into the Skies" by Kay Humphreys

Into the Skies by Kay Humphreys follows twenty-one-year old Jaylyn living in the human realm below the Star Kingdom - a society of Fae living in their floating city in the sky above Jaylyn’s village. Humans are expected to serve Fae and are “placed” (assigned jobs) once they’ve come of age. Having never been deemed acceptable for placement, Jaylyn spends her days teaching her younger brothers and working in the village tavern.

A chance encounter with a Fae head hunter of sorts brings Jaylyn up to the Starlight Kingdom where she is asked to dance for the Fae court. After a mesmerizing performance, Jaylyn is informed that she’s been found worthy of placement and will take part in a ceremony. She’s placed under the watchful eye of grumpy, silent sentry Kal. Along the way, Jaylyn is enchanted by the Star Kingdom’s Prince Aster Raellen and after completing the ceremony, learns he’s her destined mate. However, Jaylyn also learns that she will never be allowed to marry the prince (as he’s expected to marry a royal), and she’ll be his fated “play thing.” 

Jaylyn is devastated but has little time to come to terms with her new reality before unforeseen circumstances take her away from Prince Aster and is swept away by Kal. A series of gripping events brings the pair closer together as they make their way - along with their new friends, Min and Goody - to safety. Jaylyn must fight the tug she feels inside herself to her “fated mate” while also struggling with her growing attraction and feelings for Kal.

I absolutely devoured this book! The world building was intricate and well-written. Despite a somewhat slow start to the book, it quickly built and then kept a great pace for the remainder of the novel. The characters in the book were relatable, engrossing and drew me deeper into the story. They had me laughing out loud, frustrated, and even produced some tears at certain points - everything a great novel should do! I loved Goody and Min’s addition to Kal and Jaylyn’s duo and the “found family” aspect to the plot. 

I won’t give away too many spoilers but I could not get enough of Jaylyn and Kal! When she has her “a-ha” moment about him - it is EVERYTHING! (Alright, mini spoiler - he’s ready to lay the world at her feet and his feelings had me in a grip the entire time!)

Into the Skies is the perfect dystopian, romantasy and will appeal to fans of ACOTAR (it was even giving mild The Giver vibes!). I am heartbroken that the sequel doesn’t come out until mid-February 2024, but I eagerly await the next chapter in Jaylyn and Kal’s story!

Book Review: “The Prince of Never” by Lorelei Johnson and Hailey Jade

“The Prince of Never” by Lorelei Johnson and Hailey Jade [not to be confused with the book of the same title by Juno Heart and also happens to be a Fae romance] is a slow-burn, enemies to lovers, fated mates fantasy romance read. The novel follows Imogen, a university librarian, who’s attacked by a vampire as a teen. After suffering at the hands of psychiatrists and doctors who don’t believe her story, she goes through much of her young adult life seeing things that no one else sees. A second attack years later and subsequent kidnapping finds Imogen in the Fae realm and at the mercy of the dark Prince Tarian, heir to the Unseelie Court.

Imogen’s quick wit, sassiness and general fire paired nicely with the equally strong, morally gray Tarian, who’s drawn to the human newcomer since their first touch. The banter between the two and the fact that Imogen just can’t stay out of trouble leads to some precarious situations between the two of them. I also loved that despite being a bookish librarian (which I also loved), Imogen didn’t take shit from anyone - including the Unseelie Queen or her son; she consistently spoke her mind and didn’t back down from anything or anyone. 

The secondary characters just made me love the story more. Ethan - the best friend who coincidentally is also a halfling - swoops into the Fae realm to rescue his bestie. Sarah is the quintessential friend that softens Imogen’s imprisonment at Dreadhold. And Vesryn, the courtly cousin of Tarian and general troublemaker and antagonizer is a perfect mirror to Tarian and everything he’s trying to deny.

I appreciated that the world building was uncomplicated and allowed the reader to easily visualize what this Fae realm looked like, along with all of its magical inhabitants, from the flesh-hungry pixies to the prophecy-wielding comedic satyr. The pacing of the novel was also spot-on; it had me hooked early on in the reading and led me right off that cliff-hanger at the end. (Like, when is book two supposed to be out!?)

I know that there are so many Fae “romantasy” books out there and it's a challenge to stand out among the masses, but this book surprised me in all the right ways. If you’re a fan of ACOTAR or The Cruel Prince, this book - filled with cursed prophesies, political intrigue and rival Fae courts - will be right up your alley. Seriously…when does the second book come out?!

Book Review: "House of Arsceneaux" by Caterina Novelliere

“House of Arsceneaux” is a fast-paced paranormal romance, steeped with ancient history, Celtic mythology, and intertwined with Creole/Cajun culture. The novel follows Caitlin DeDanann, an overworked acquisitions attorney as she gets pulled into a new work project just as she’s about to jet off to New Orleans for a week of vacay. Caitlin gets more than she bargained for when she learns that the elusive CEO she’s been flown in to investigate is none other than vamp Evariste Gage Arsceneaux - a familiar figure who she’s drawn to immediately. While Evariste comes to terms with the fact that Caitlin is his 300-year-old wife incarnate (unbeknownst to her!), dark forces come to play in the bayou of New Orleans, trying to force the pair apart again.

With the help of some friends (aka spiritual guides and a grandmother who’s actually a goddess), Caitlin begins remembering parts of her past and her life with Evariste. She also begins to come into her own powers - just in time for an epic battle between the lovers, their evil vamp enemies and the amassed army, determined to pull the two apart. (Don’t worry - Caitlin’s got some help from her Fae friends, along with the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse…what could go wrong?)

I appreciated the amount of research that went into weaving past with present. The flashbacks and changes of names could have been more confusing but it was done with finesse and provided some important context to the history between the protagonists and antagonists in the story. With as many paranormal entities as this book had (vampires, witches, Celtic goddesses, Horsemen, Fae, etc.), it was done in a way that made sense, surprisingly.

This book was chock full of tropes: Second chance at love, fated mates, workplace romance, star-crossed lovers, time travel, touch her and die. I was there for it all! It also had just enough spice to convey the more intimate nature of Caitlin and Evariste’s relationship - and make the reader realize how their love and connection could survive a 300 year recess. The energy was palpable!

More than just “another vampire romance,” Novelliere’s novel has all the workings of a page-turning paranormal romance that spins modern and past NOLA culture, food, and happy endings into a gripping tale of long-lost love found, rekindled, and never to be messed with again.

Book Review: "A Kingdom of Venom and Vows" by Holly Renee

Holly Renee masterfully continues her enthralling fantasy series with "A Kingdom of Venom and Vows." This spellbinding threequel is a rollercoaster of emotions, as Adara and Evren face their ultimate tests, battling not only external forces but also their own inner demons.

In this third chapter, the stakes have never been higher for Adara and Evren. Adara, a formidable and resilient protagonist, finds herself navigating a treacherous world where trust is scarce and danger lurks at every turn, as queens of the kingdom battle for power and Adara becomes their pawn. As the kingdom teeters on the brink of chaos, she must make difficult choices that will define not only her own destiny but also the fate of those she holds dear. Evren, Adara’s fated mate, will stop at nothing to raze the kingdom until Adara is by his side once more.

The relationship between Adara and Evren evolves with intensity and passion. Their connection, once marked by tension and conflicted loyalties, deepens into a powerful love that defies all odds - culminating with Adara giving up her power to save Evren’s kingdom. Renee navigates their complex dynamic with finesse, portraying the depth of their emotions and the challenges they face. The romance scenes are copious, but artfully balance sensuality and emotional vulnerability among the two lovers. (And besides, one can never have too much spice in a Fae fantasy romance!)

"A Kingdom of Venom and Vows" delivers a gripping plot that keeps readers enthralled from start to finish. Renee masterfully weaves a complex web of political intrigue, shifting alliances, and shocking revelations. As Adara and Evren confront their enemies and unravel the mysteries of their former kingdom and court, the story takes unexpected twists and turns that leave readers on the edge of their seats. The pacing is just right, balancing moments of heart-stopping action with introspective character development.

"A Kingdom of Venom and Vows" is a breathtaking finale that exceeds all expectations. Holly Renee's ability to craft intricate plot lines, deeply layered characters, and a passionate romance makes this book a true gem in the fantasy genre. This series will leave an indelible mark on readers, reminding them of the power of love, redemption, and the strength found within.

Book Review: "A Kingdom of Blood and Betrayal" by Holly Renee

Holly Renee delivers a masterful follow-up to her enchanting fantasy series with book two in the “Stars and Shadows” series, "A Kingdom of Blood and Betrayal." This gripping sequel takes readers on an epic journey filled with political machinations, heart-wrenching betrayals, and characters that leap off the page. Prepare to be captivated as Adara and Evren face their greatest challenges yet, navigating a world teetering on the edge of chaos.

The story picks up where the previous installment left off, plunging us back into the intricate web of political intrigue within the kingdom. Adara, a fiercely determined and resilient protagonist, finds herself caught in the midst of a dangerous power struggle. As she uncovers shocking truths about her heritage, she becomes entangled in a battle for her own survival and the fate of the kingdom itself.

Evren, the enigmatic and morally conflicted antagonist, undergoes a profound transformation. Tormented by his past and the weight of his decisions, he finds himself torn between loyalty and a growing desire for redemption. Renee deftly explores Evren's internal struggles, allowing readers to witness his journey from darkness to the possibility of redemption.

The relationship between Adara and Evren is a central focus of this narrative, and it evolves in unexpected and emotionally charged ways. Their interactions are marked by tension, conflicted loyalties, and a mutual understanding that transcends the boundaries of their roles. Renee skillfully portrays their complex dynamic, showcasing the layers of their connection and the impact it has on the unfolding events.

The plot is a thrilling tapestry of twists and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat, culminating with a cliffhanger! Renee expertly crafts a story filled with unexpected betrayals, shifting alliances, and breathtaking revelations. The political landscape is intricately woven, providing a rich backdrop for the characters' struggles and setting the stage for an epic climax. The pacing is impeccable, propelling the narrative forward while allowing moments of introspection and character development.

Holly Renee's ability to craft compelling characters and intricate plotlines shines in this enthralling sequel. Fans of epic fantasy will be enthralled by the political intrigue, unexpected twists, and emotionally charged journey of Adara and Evren. This book is a testament to Renee's skill as a storyteller and will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in this captivating series. 

Book Review: "A Kingdom of Stars and Shadows" by Holly Renee

Holly Renee weaves a spellbinding tapestry of imagination, crafting a vivid and intricately detailed world that will leave you breathless. From the majestic landscapes to the bustling city, every aspect of the kingdom feels alive and immersive. With her eloquent prose, the author effortlessly paints a picture in our minds, enabling us to wander through this fantastical realm with awe and wonder. The depth of the world-building is truly commendable, making it easy to suspend disbelief and fully immerse oneself in this breathtaking universe.

In "A Kingdom of Stars and Shadows," Renee introduces a cast of characters that will steal your heart and take up permanent residence within your imagination, including heroine Adara, a Starblessed human fated to marry the Fae prince Gavril. Along with Evren, bastard son to King Riven, each character is meticulously crafted with distinct personalities, hidden depths & atrocious truths, and a unique role to play in the grand tapestry of the series. Their growth, struggles, and relationships begin to be beautifully explored in this book (and in the subsequent books that follow), leaving us emotionally invested and yearning for more.

At the heart of this exceptional narrative lies an epic tale of magic and intrigue. The plot unfolds with meticulous precision, blending elements of political maneuvering, ancient prophecies, and pulse-pounding action sequences. Adara fights her destiny, as Evren is tasked with keeping the bride-to-be safe - and in the process setting the scene for the ultimate “steal the girl” showdown between the brother princes. Renee masterfully balances suspense and revelation, keeping readers on the edge of their seats and eagerly turning pages to unravel the secrets of this mesmerizing kingdom. Every twist and turn is cleverly executed, leaving us gasping in surprise and longing for the next revelation. Adara and Evren’s chemistry is palpable and Renee does not skimp on the spice!

"A Kingdom of Stars and Shadows" is a well-crafted fantasy romance that will leave a lasting impression on readers. With its compelling characters, intricate world-building, and a narrative that is as enthralling as it is poignant, this book is a must-read for fans of fantasy, adventure, and romance.