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Shades of Ruin and Magic #2
House of Fae and Mist: Brides Selection
I have no intention of being anyone’s bride, let alone fighting tooth and nail to get there.
All the vicious catfights in the school nauseate me. I have bigger things to worry about, like being hunted by my father, who’s getting closer every day.
Yet no one leaves me alone. The princes believe I’m playing hard to get, so they pursue me fiercely. When they realize that I’m not as ambitious or smitten as the other girls, they place a bet—whoever claims my virginity takes it all.
Their stupid vanity game paints a target on my back—all the bride candidates join forces to come after me, cleverly planning my demise. I might be an apex predator, but I’m one against a thousand of the meanest “coyotes.”
To make sure I live through the game, Killian offers to train me. The chemistry between us cuts through every obstacle and tears down our own defenses.
We should know what’s good for us. We should stay the hell away from each other. He’s still the forbidden fruit. If I taste him, we’ll burn, and the world will burn with us.
But I can’t stop...
All the vicious catfights in the school nauseate me. I have bigger things to worry about, like being hunted by my father, who’s getting closer every day.
Yet no one leaves me alone. The princes believe I’m playing hard to get, so they pursue me fiercely. When they realize that I’m not as ambitious or smitten as the other girls, they place a bet—whoever claims my virginity takes it all.
Their stupid vanity game paints a target on my back—all the bride candidates join forces to come after me, cleverly planning my demise. I might be an apex predator, but I’m one against a thousand of the meanest “coyotes.”
To make sure I live through the game, Killian offers to train me. The chemistry between us cuts through every obstacle and tears down our own defenses.
We should know what’s good for us. We should stay the hell away from each other. He’s still the forbidden fruit. If I taste him, we’ll burn, and the world will burn with us.
But I can’t stop...
279 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 28, 2023
1041 people are currently reading
3021 people want to read
About the author
Meg Xuemei X
113 books2,283 followersMeg Xuemei X is a USA Today and Amazon Charts bestselling author of paranormal and fantasy romance. She loves writing badass heroines and hot psycho alphaholes.
Join Meg’s mailing list for new releases, giveaways, and fun stuff: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 136 reviews
December 31, 2023
3.5
This has a little bit of a filler book vibe. Not much plot movement.
However, Little Bob/Barbie is ridiculously entertaining. 😂
This has a little bit of a filler book vibe. Not much plot movement.
However, Little Bob/Barbie is ridiculously entertaining. 😂
January 6, 2024
One heck of a cliff hanger. April 2024 hurry uppppppp
December 28, 2023
Disappointing
I was really looking forward to this continuation. I enjoyed the first book a lot but had a few reservations about certain aspects of book 1, that I had hoped would be resolved in this book. It was not.
After reading book 2, I can say that the plot is very weak. Nothing much happens that furthers this Ruin vs the last magical realm war plot line. The first half of the book was essentially Barbie (formerly known as Little Bob) messing around and playing the princes. While I enjoy Barbie’s antics, it gets old really fast when that is the only thing that happens. Her sassy monologues are half the book. Her getting that ghostly familiar was intriguing plot wise but that’s about it. The most interesting things happen in the very last part of the book. I had been just about to DNF it at 88% when I decided I might as well finish it. We find out that Killian is part god, which was easy to guess, and someone, probably Lilith, seems to be aware of Barbie’s origins. We won’t know more about that until the 3rd book because it was a cheap cliffhanger that is currently failing to keep me enticed with the series. Based off of the author’s comments, it seems like there will be 6 books, one named after every prince, including the prince that has not been introduced yet from the unclaimed/lawless land. It seems like it’ll be the type of series where the first 5 books will all be about ‘preparing’ and everything happens in the last book. Even if its not, book 2 really should have picked things up either plot wise or romance wise.
That leads me to my next gripe, the severe lack of romance. It is very hard to take the seriousness of the bride selection when it seems like such low stakes. For a three quarter goddess, it seems so trivial to force herself to entertain (literally tap dance) these princes. She could leave the realm anytime she wanted, even if it’s not ideal. Speaking of the realms I was hoping for some more clarity on that but all I can recall is the mortal realm and the realm that we currently are in. What other realms are there? Is the magical realm as large as the mortal one?
I was concerned during the first book about whether this was an actual RH but this book truly makes it seems like it’s monogamous with her and chaos prince Killian. The other princes are truly unlikable especially Silas and Louis. The fae prince Rowan even said that he only saw a mate bond between Barbie and Killian, not the other princes. As much as I dislike the other princes, it is a bad dynamic for a harem if one is much favored. That could be because he is the only other part god but still. Strange for an RH. Rowan is alright but he seems head over heels for Sy. Which leads me into my next issue.
I never cared for Barbie to have a sentient being inside of her. I didn’t like the idea of two FMC’s. However after the first book, Sy grew on me, since she mainly took on a backseat role and had no strong opinions. That obviously changes this book. She became possessive over Rowan. If Rowan is to be a part of Barbie’s harem, Sy and him have got to end. I feel bad for Sy; what she was saying about Barbie was true. Still this split where Sy has her own wishes is really weird. Can you imagine Barbie with the four other princes and Rowan just back-seating in hopes of being with Sy for a few hours at a time? Like that hologram. Even if Sy was able to get her own body, I’d find it very strange.
Obviously some of my issues trace back to it being an RH. I’m starting to feel like I missed something and this book is not why choose but actually just a regular romance book with a weird love octagon (Barbie, Sy, and the six princes). There are still 4 more books forthcoming, so I guess in theory the next book could make it better but I doubt that. I had the same thought with this book. Even if it is just a regular romance, it would still be weird with the lack of a steady plot or romance. Just like the last book, there is absolutely no romance. The date with Rowan had a chance to become something but that was crashed. Out of respect for the potential of the first book I gave this three stars but it probably deserved two.
On the bright side, I think the Rowan + Sy thing has potential to make some really good angst. No paranormal RH really has a good candidate competing for one of the MMC’s. Usually the MMC has no interest in anyone except the FMC. We have been forced to view Sy as a competitor now. I would love to see some well written angst about Rowan’s confusion regarding who is his true mate, especially since Sy and Barbie are so tied together it is hard to differentiate.
I’m not super excited for book 3 but if I remember this series still I will probably try to read it. Hopefully it will have less random exclamation marks!
I would read the author’s next series, as long as it features less childish MMCs, a steadier plot, less insta lust and more romance. Also for a book with a lot of spice, they certainly lack heat.
I was really looking forward to this continuation. I enjoyed the first book a lot but had a few reservations about certain aspects of book 1, that I had hoped would be resolved in this book. It was not.
After reading book 2, I can say that the plot is very weak. Nothing much happens that furthers this Ruin vs the last magical realm war plot line. The first half of the book was essentially Barbie (formerly known as Little Bob) messing around and playing the princes. While I enjoy Barbie’s antics, it gets old really fast when that is the only thing that happens. Her sassy monologues are half the book. Her getting that ghostly familiar was intriguing plot wise but that’s about it. The most interesting things happen in the very last part of the book. I had been just about to DNF it at 88% when I decided I might as well finish it. We find out that Killian is part god, which was easy to guess, and someone, probably Lilith, seems to be aware of Barbie’s origins. We won’t know more about that until the 3rd book because it was a cheap cliffhanger that is currently failing to keep me enticed with the series. Based off of the author’s comments, it seems like there will be 6 books, one named after every prince, including the prince that has not been introduced yet from the unclaimed/lawless land. It seems like it’ll be the type of series where the first 5 books will all be about ‘preparing’ and everything happens in the last book. Even if its not, book 2 really should have picked things up either plot wise or romance wise.
That leads me to my next gripe, the severe lack of romance. It is very hard to take the seriousness of the bride selection when it seems like such low stakes. For a three quarter goddess, it seems so trivial to force herself to entertain (literally tap dance) these princes. She could leave the realm anytime she wanted, even if it’s not ideal. Speaking of the realms I was hoping for some more clarity on that but all I can recall is the mortal realm and the realm that we currently are in. What other realms are there? Is the magical realm as large as the mortal one?
I was concerned during the first book about whether this was an actual RH but this book truly makes it seems like it’s monogamous with her and chaos prince Killian. The other princes are truly unlikable especially Silas and Louis. The fae prince Rowan even said that he only saw a mate bond between Barbie and Killian, not the other princes. As much as I dislike the other princes, it is a bad dynamic for a harem if one is much favored. That could be because he is the only other part god but still. Strange for an RH. Rowan is alright but he seems head over heels for Sy. Which leads me into my next issue.
I never cared for Barbie to have a sentient being inside of her. I didn’t like the idea of two FMC’s. However after the first book, Sy grew on me, since she mainly took on a backseat role and had no strong opinions. That obviously changes this book. She became possessive over Rowan. If Rowan is to be a part of Barbie’s harem, Sy and him have got to end. I feel bad for Sy; what she was saying about Barbie was true. Still this split where Sy has her own wishes is really weird. Can you imagine Barbie with the four other princes and Rowan just back-seating in hopes of being with Sy for a few hours at a time? Like that hologram. Even if Sy was able to get her own body, I’d find it very strange.
Obviously some of my issues trace back to it being an RH. I’m starting to feel like I missed something and this book is not why choose but actually just a regular romance book with a weird love octagon (Barbie, Sy, and the six princes). There are still 4 more books forthcoming, so I guess in theory the next book could make it better but I doubt that. I had the same thought with this book. Even if it is just a regular romance, it would still be weird with the lack of a steady plot or romance. Just like the last book, there is absolutely no romance. The date with Rowan had a chance to become something but that was crashed. Out of respect for the potential of the first book I gave this three stars but it probably deserved two.
On the bright side, I think the Rowan + Sy thing has potential to make some really good angst. No paranormal RH really has a good candidate competing for one of the MMC’s. Usually the MMC has no interest in anyone except the FMC. We have been forced to view Sy as a competitor now. I would love to see some well written angst about Rowan’s confusion regarding who is his true mate, especially since Sy and Barbie are so tied together it is hard to differentiate.
I’m not super excited for book 3 but if I remember this series still I will probably try to read it. Hopefully it will have less random exclamation marks!
I would read the author’s next series, as long as it features less childish MMCs, a steadier plot, less insta lust and more romance. Also for a book with a lot of spice, they certainly lack heat.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 27, 2024
I had such high expectations of this book because the first was so entertaining.
-and then it just fell to the floor like a wet sock.
I am so disappointed!
I will not continue this series.
-and then it just fell to the floor like a wet sock.
I am so disappointed!
I will not continue this series.
December 29, 2023
On and on and over again
I read the reviews and they lied. This book does not even come close to book 1. I don't expect much of a good story line for book 3. Let me guess it will filled up with a lots of sex to try to make up for a bad story development.
I read the reviews and they lied. This book does not even come close to book 1. I don't expect much of a good story line for book 3. Let me guess it will filled up with a lots of sex to try to make up for a bad story development.
January 6, 2024
I was disappointed with the second book, Nothing much really happened. I expected the bride trials to be in this book ,not have to wait till the third book come out. 😭I also thought I would see more of the connection between her and Killian in this book.
January 7, 2024
So so so stupid, had a great time!
December 21, 2023
This is the second book in Meg’s new series, and holy crap, that cliffhanger!
The story picks up where House of Vampires and Flames, with Barbie (A.K.A. Little Bob) being exposed as a girl to the school by the chaos prince. From there, she is initiated into the House of Chaos, and now that she's a candidate in the Bride Trials, she’s also become a threat to the other contestants.
Although a lot happens and is just as all over the place as the last book (no shade, it's crazy good), this book has a lot more Sy and focuses on her relationship with Barbie, and Barbie’s connection with Killian. And the last couple of chapters… will have your heart pumping. Just a heads up.
If you loved the last book, you'll love this one. I can't wait to see what happens next, because I’m pretty sure Killian is going to lose it!
Definitely a must-read!
The story picks up where House of Vampires and Flames, with Barbie (A.K.A. Little Bob) being exposed as a girl to the school by the chaos prince. From there, she is initiated into the House of Chaos, and now that she's a candidate in the Bride Trials, she’s also become a threat to the other contestants.
Although a lot happens and is just as all over the place as the last book (no shade, it's crazy good), this book has a lot more Sy and focuses on her relationship with Barbie, and Barbie’s connection with Killian. And the last couple of chapters… will have your heart pumping. Just a heads up.
If you loved the last book, you'll love this one. I can't wait to see what happens next, because I’m pretty sure Killian is going to lose it!
Definitely a must-read!
March 19, 2024
This was definitely the end for me and this series. The dynamic of Barbie/Sy continues to be a speed bump for me. I would go into more detail. However, that would put me into a spoiler review, and I do try to avoid that.
Killian is a very interesting MC. The idea of this world is interesting. The world build has been good. The FMC is what made this a low star read for me.
Truly believe there’s gonna be a lot of mixed reviews with this series. I officially will not be finishing it.
Happy reading,
DD🥂
Killian is a very interesting MC. The idea of this world is interesting. The world build has been good. The FMC is what made this a low star read for me.
Truly believe there’s gonna be a lot of mixed reviews with this series. I officially will not be finishing it.
Happy reading,
DD🥂
November 11, 2024
It's better than the first time, but I think that Killian and the main hero should just take it over with. If she is the true mate and can touch him, then it cancels out the queen, doesn't it
Sometimes, the simplest explanation is the best
Sometimes, the simplest explanation is the best
May 16, 2024
What if every character wasn’t insufferable…what if….
December 31, 2023
Good read
I really enjoy the story line/plot of the book. I like most of the characters, some are more developed then others. Like the princes we know next to nothing about except they are entitled man whores. The only one worth anything is Killian and we just find out about his family tree in book 2. Not much character development otherwise. Even her best friend Bea is an enigma. I do like the main character even though she constantly spews nonsense and her jokes land 1 out 10 times. There's a lot of non hilarity going on, like you know its supposed to be funny, but its not well thought out enough. The author wants it to be but didn't put the work into making it so. Somehow the book is still readable because the plot is interesting and you want to know how her story ends. I could definitely see the problems arising between having two souls in one body when their needs don't align and Barbie is constantly suppressing Sy and then just using her for her strength and companionship. That didn't rub me right so it was no surprise they have a falling out. I kept wanting them to be more in sync with one another, I kinda wish they were still the same person but they were made to have their own thoughts and feelings and different soul mates. Complicated for sure. Barbie is very immature and its no surprise considering her past, she wasn't raised like a normal person and is surprisingly sane for what she's been through. Her father is a creep and unfortunately an old god, all the younger gods are missing and she's the food made to complete her fathers strength. He will be the ruin of everything magical and is getting stronger by the day. Somehow she is the only one who can defeat him but we don't know how yet and she's at war with herself all the time and just seems to care about her next meal... she's completely self centered and can only see the world in terms of surviving another day... because of this her life and those she cares for, are going to get a LOT worse before they get better unless she learns to trust and bend her rules.
I really enjoy the story line/plot of the book. I like most of the characters, some are more developed then others. Like the princes we know next to nothing about except they are entitled man whores. The only one worth anything is Killian and we just find out about his family tree in book 2. Not much character development otherwise. Even her best friend Bea is an enigma. I do like the main character even though she constantly spews nonsense and her jokes land 1 out 10 times. There's a lot of non hilarity going on, like you know its supposed to be funny, but its not well thought out enough. The author wants it to be but didn't put the work into making it so. Somehow the book is still readable because the plot is interesting and you want to know how her story ends. I could definitely see the problems arising between having two souls in one body when their needs don't align and Barbie is constantly suppressing Sy and then just using her for her strength and companionship. That didn't rub me right so it was no surprise they have a falling out. I kept wanting them to be more in sync with one another, I kinda wish they were still the same person but they were made to have their own thoughts and feelings and different soul mates. Complicated for sure. Barbie is very immature and its no surprise considering her past, she wasn't raised like a normal person and is surprisingly sane for what she's been through. Her father is a creep and unfortunately an old god, all the younger gods are missing and she's the food made to complete her fathers strength. He will be the ruin of everything magical and is getting stronger by the day. Somehow she is the only one who can defeat him but we don't know how yet and she's at war with herself all the time and just seems to care about her next meal... she's completely self centered and can only see the world in terms of surviving another day... because of this her life and those she cares for, are going to get a LOT worse before they get better unless she learns to trust and bend her rules.
December 31, 2023
Let me just say that this book started off very strong. It continues on straight from where we left off. I really thought we were gonna get some angst and quality tension. Instead I got a story with a lot of smart ass remarks that become repetitive after awhile. I would have enjoyed the smarminess and banter if there was a plot behind this but it seemed that nothing happened. All Barbie did was become unbearable by only looking out for herself. Not even looking out for her other half. Honestly she reminded me of her dad. Which reminds me… she doesn’t have an epiphany about how she treats Sy until Killian finally goes down on her? How self-centered of her. She forgot that it wasn’t just her who was imprisoned and then she turns her back. No wonder she has no real Allies. Also…. Nothing happened. Really wish the second book wasn’t a filler book. Maybe the next one will be more plot driven and angst-y.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 30, 2023
This was rather disappointing. I was anxiously waiting for the second install on the shades of ruin and magic but I have to say it didnot deliver it.
The plot
It has so many holes in it, I was expecting flashbacks to Barbies time with Ruin or maybe more world building or even a prophecy that explains The One, but nothing. We got nothing, just a bunch of things with no sense.
Characters
I still love Barbie. She has been incredible this far and i totally love all her Sass. I am not loving Killian, and I did not approve of their sexual encounter I just thought it was weird as fuck. The others are OK, but It would have been interesting to read some Pov from their perspective.
I swear the book did not advance the story at all, I feel like this was a prologue lol
The ending was obvious from a mile away. I gave it 3 stars because of Barbie, she made me laugh. I hope it improves on book three or I am dropping the series.
The plot
It has so many holes in it, I was expecting flashbacks to Barbies time with Ruin or maybe more world building or even a prophecy that explains The One, but nothing. We got nothing, just a bunch of things with no sense.
Characters
I still love Barbie. She has been incredible this far and i totally love all her Sass. I am not loving Killian, and I did not approve of their sexual encounter I just thought it was weird as fuck. The others are OK, but It would have been interesting to read some Pov from their perspective.
I swear the book did not advance the story at all, I feel like this was a prologue lol
The ending was obvious from a mile away. I gave it 3 stars because of Barbie, she made me laugh. I hope it improves on book three or I am dropping the series.
February 1, 2024
In this gripping sequel, Barbie is entangled in the perilous Bride Trials, attracting unwanted attention from her peers and princely suitors alike. Her father's looming threat raises the stakes, forcing her to navigate a treacherous path of survival and alliances. Her intricate dance with Killian, marked by undeniable chemistry, adds a thrilling layer of forbidden romance. Despite some narrative shortcomings and underdeveloped characters, Victoria Mei's compelling narration brings the characters to life, skillfully conveying the story's tension, humor, and emotional depth. The cliffhanger ending left me on edge, eager to see how the saga unfolds. A compelling blend of action, intrigue, and evolving relationships, elevated by Mei's dynamic performance, makes this installment a captivating listen.
October 8, 2024
I really enjoy the storyline. I do feel Barbie is a bit immature at times, BUT she was also held captive and tortured for years before finally getting a taste of freedom.
February 16, 2025
Great ending
Better than the first! What a cliffhanger! Need to download the third book and start reading! Pleasantly surprised this series just got exciting!
Better than the first! What a cliffhanger! Need to download the third book and start reading! Pleasantly surprised this series just got exciting!
January 13, 2024
Teasing
Not sure it was worth the wait or for the story to be dragged on for another book or 3 .that said you can't help liking Barbie & her snark .The story between the pages of waffle is still good & the ending practically guarantees you'll but the next book but honestly author's stop making a series of 5 or 6 books just because you can what you make in money is lost in the readers pleasure in the books because I waited patiently for this & at the end I asked myself why did I bother apart from the ending
Not sure it was worth the wait or for the story to be dragged on for another book or 3 .that said you can't help liking Barbie & her snark .The story between the pages of waffle is still good & the ending practically guarantees you'll but the next book but honestly author's stop making a series of 5 or 6 books just because you can what you make in money is lost in the readers pleasure in the books because I waited patiently for this & at the end I asked myself why did I bother apart from the ending
December 31, 2023
House of Fae and Mist takes readers on a journey of magic and danger, providing an enchanting experience for the mind and heart. Barbie symbolizes unwavering courage in a world where becoming a bride is a fiercely competitive and ruthless contest, where contestants use claws and crowns to win. She is not just a typical damsel in distress but rather a mystery wrapped in a storm, with eyes that shine with an unrelenting determination.
Barbie is an independent lady determined not to be a pawn in a twisted game of marriage. She is the apex predator and the one who nobody expected. In this game of power and competition, she is the only one who can outsmart the vicious women constantly fighting against her. Barbie is fighting against the other bride candidates and battling to maintain her autonomy in a world where everyone is against her.
The House of Fae and Mist is a story that combines danger and desire, particularly with the princes playing a disturbingly high-stakes game that turns our protagonist, Barbie, into the ultimate prize. The story is not just about romance but also about survival. It makes the heart race with every turn of the page. One of the characters, Killian, is a dark prince who adds layers of complexity and passion to the story. He wants to break down Barbie's walls and explore the fierce chemistry that threatens to consume them both. This isn't just physical; it's a battle of wits, wills, and emotions.
However, be warned: this tale will seize your heart, just as it has captured the heart of its defiant and brilliant protagonist. So take the mist at your own risk and prepare for an unforgettable journey.
Barbie is an independent lady determined not to be a pawn in a twisted game of marriage. She is the apex predator and the one who nobody expected. In this game of power and competition, she is the only one who can outsmart the vicious women constantly fighting against her. Barbie is fighting against the other bride candidates and battling to maintain her autonomy in a world where everyone is against her.
The House of Fae and Mist is a story that combines danger and desire, particularly with the princes playing a disturbingly high-stakes game that turns our protagonist, Barbie, into the ultimate prize. The story is not just about romance but also about survival. It makes the heart race with every turn of the page. One of the characters, Killian, is a dark prince who adds layers of complexity and passion to the story. He wants to break down Barbie's walls and explore the fierce chemistry that threatens to consume them both. This isn't just physical; it's a battle of wits, wills, and emotions.
However, be warned: this tale will seize your heart, just as it has captured the heart of its defiant and brilliant protagonist. So take the mist at your own risk and prepare for an unforgettable journey.
December 30, 2023
I just had to read this, even though I had my doubts about book 1. And I have to say, my points of critique still stand. The story was still all over the place, the characters kept talking like middle schoolers (except during the smut scenes), and the plot did not progress at all. There is supposed to be a bride selection, but no bride has been selected as of yet. The competition has not even started for f*cks sake.
There has been one notable change though, and that is that the name Little Bob is no more. Instead the main character was called by her real name, which is, and I kid you not, Barbie. Yeah... I don't know if that's any better. I think slightly. Oh and before I forget, she has a ghost companion now, who is also a gay. Yes, he is not just gay, or even queer, but *a* gay. He was a nice addition though, so absolutely no complaints from me. We also got more Killian and Sy, which is a good thing really since those two are my faves.
To summarize, book 2 was absolutely ridiculous and the story did not progress at all, but I still feel the need to leave a 4 star review, because... I don't know I guess it's growing on me. The only thing that would ruin this series for me, is if Barbie ends up with more guys than just Killian, because that would just piss me of. I don't like the others, or at the very least don't care for them, except Rowan but he is for Sy. Then again, these books are so unserious, maybe I wouldn't even care.
There has been one notable change though, and that is that the name Little Bob is no more. Instead the main character was called by her real name, which is, and I kid you not, Barbie. Yeah... I don't know if that's any better. I think slightly. Oh and before I forget, she has a ghost companion now, who is also a gay. Yes, he is not just gay, or even queer, but *a* gay. He was a nice addition though, so absolutely no complaints from me. We also got more Killian and Sy, which is a good thing really since those two are my faves.
To summarize, book 2 was absolutely ridiculous and the story did not progress at all, but I still feel the need to leave a 4 star review, because... I don't know I guess it's growing on me. The only thing that would ruin this series for me, is if Barbie ends up with more guys than just Killian, because that would just piss me of. I don't like the others, or at the very least don't care for them, except Rowan but he is for Sy. Then again, these books are so unserious, maybe I wouldn't even care.
January 20, 2026
4.5 stars for Book 2
Barbie is brought to Killian's House of Chaos to be under his protection with a better reception than anywhere else she's been. Killian totally takes over by enrolling her not only into school but into the Brides Selection. Barbie doesn't want any of it. Her only concern is keeping the realm safe from her father and his monsters but she'll be better for Killian.
As per usual, Barbie attracts all kinds of problems. She got the attention she didn't want from the princes along with all the other females who really do not like her. The princes came up with what they considered a fitting punishment for her humiliating them after finding out she was a female and not a male. They'd all date her, make her fall and take humiliating pictures and videos to ruin her. They didn't realize she had others to find out this info and would share it with her. Meanwhile, Killian is going to train her, which is more like he wanted to raise the heat between them instead. No one can touch Killian without getting hurt, maimed or killed--except Barbie, only she doesn't realize this.
This one was good and a nice little bridge to the rest of the series, I think. Not too much excitement, but enough to keep you going. Not too much spice, more of a teaser of what may come. Some humor as in the first, though Barbie is tired and of course hungry. Big drama moment was presented with her and Sy in this also and should not be missed.
Barbie is brought to Killian's House of Chaos to be under his protection with a better reception than anywhere else she's been. Killian totally takes over by enrolling her not only into school but into the Brides Selection. Barbie doesn't want any of it. Her only concern is keeping the realm safe from her father and his monsters but she'll be better for Killian.
As per usual, Barbie attracts all kinds of problems. She got the attention she didn't want from the princes along with all the other females who really do not like her. The princes came up with what they considered a fitting punishment for her humiliating them after finding out she was a female and not a male. They'd all date her, make her fall and take humiliating pictures and videos to ruin her. They didn't realize she had others to find out this info and would share it with her. Meanwhile, Killian is going to train her, which is more like he wanted to raise the heat between them instead. No one can touch Killian without getting hurt, maimed or killed--except Barbie, only she doesn't realize this.
This one was good and a nice little bridge to the rest of the series, I think. Not too much excitement, but enough to keep you going. Not too much spice, more of a teaser of what may come. Some humor as in the first, though Barbie is tired and of course hungry. Big drama moment was presented with her and Sy in this also and should not be missed.
February 22, 2024
Read
Rating: 2/5 ⭐
Genre: Crossworlds Fantasy
Type: Series
Age: New Adult
Safety: 🟡
Spice: 2/5 🔥 Open door /Closed Door
Romance: 0/5 ❤️
World building: 2/5 🌎
Plot: 2/5 📖
Writing: 1/5 📝
Characters: 1/5 👥
Pacing: 2/ 5 ⏱️
Cover: 4/5 📓
Tropes / Features:
🐺 Shifters
🧝 Fae
🧛 Vampires
🧙 Magicians
🎓 Academic setting
💕 Polyamory
❤️🔥⚔️ Hate to Love
🤬 Bully Romance
Summary:
My thoughts:
I'm done with this story. The relationship dynamic is so weird, I'm not even sure if this is supposed to be a reverse harem
Will I continue this series? ❌
Would I read more by this author? ❌
Would I recommend? ❌
TW / CW:
Rating: 2/5 ⭐
Genre: Crossworlds Fantasy
Type: Series
Age: New Adult
Safety: 🟡
Spice: 2/5 🔥 Open door /
Romance: 0/5 ❤️
World building: 2/5 🌎
Plot: 2/5 📖
Writing: 1/5 📝
Characters: 1/5 👥
Pacing: 2/ 5 ⏱️
Cover: 4/5 📓
Tropes / Features:
🐺 Shifters
🧝 Fae
🧛 Vampires
🧙 Magicians
🎓 Academic setting
💕 Polyamory
❤️🔥⚔️ Hate to Love
🤬 Bully Romance
Summary:
My thoughts:
I'm done with this story. The relationship dynamic is so weird, I'm not even sure if this is supposed to be a reverse harem
Will I continue this series? ❌
Would I read more by this author? ❌
Would I recommend? ❌
TW / CW:
July 20, 2024
Barbie is now officially a member of Killian's chaos house, but she has no desire to be in the bride trials. She wants to remain hidden from her father as well as keep him away from her new home. Unfortunately she can't really focus on this because of Killian, the other princes and the other bride candidates.
I didn't hate this but some things are getting annoying. Like Barbies sense of "humor". Also the fact that all of these almost adults act like mindless children. I keep reading because there is some story here. Even though it gets frustrating at times, just because everyone is keeping things from each other, but i liked the tension between Barbie and Killian as well as the connection the prince's had with each other. Lastly, I feel like I really just need to know what Sy is, what is their actual connection? Without that information I can't really get into their dynamic.
I didn't hate this but some things are getting annoying. Like Barbies sense of "humor". Also the fact that all of these almost adults act like mindless children. I keep reading because there is some story here. Even though it gets frustrating at times, just because everyone is keeping things from each other, but i liked the tension between Barbie and Killian as well as the connection the prince's had with each other. Lastly, I feel like I really just need to know what Sy is, what is their actual connection? Without that information I can't really get into their dynamic.
January 14, 2024
Engaging
I'd actually forgotten about this series, Meg starts so many books and leaves you hanging for a while. At least book 3 is April this time. I found myself taken aback that the heroines name is Barbie but at least I remembered the plot. I feel sorry for Sy it's not fair on So many levels if only she could literally pop right out.
Now let's talk power levels, this is where the other star went, she's practically a goddess. Daughter to the older than dirt god yet a simple, well simple ish neck thingy can take her powers... What will daddy say, he's meant to be the strongest and by her telling, she's stronger than him. Surely then it wouldn't be hard to capture him. Just saying...
And April is so far away
I'd actually forgotten about this series, Meg starts so many books and leaves you hanging for a while. At least book 3 is April this time. I found myself taken aback that the heroines name is Barbie but at least I remembered the plot. I feel sorry for Sy it's not fair on So many levels if only she could literally pop right out.
Now let's talk power levels, this is where the other star went, she's practically a goddess. Daughter to the older than dirt god yet a simple, well simple ish neck thingy can take her powers... What will daddy say, he's meant to be the strongest and by her telling, she's stronger than him. Surely then it wouldn't be hard to capture him. Just saying...
And April is so far away
February 6, 2024
🅰🆄🅳🅸🅾🅱🅾🅾🅺 🆁🅴🆅🅸🅴🆆
This is my first time listening or reading a Meg Xuemei book, and I'm wondering what took me so long!
Very interesting concept for this fantasy/PNR. Imagine the Bachelor meets Fae/Shifters/magic.
Narration by Victoria Mei who voiced thethe funny and snarky Barbie and her darker alter ego, as well as all the other characters.
I didn't listen to book one but will be looking out for the audio so I can get caught up and help me understand the set up. I have no doubt I'll be impatiently waiting for the next installment in audio because this book dropped a bomb and placed out with that cliffhanger!
I'll for sure be devouring this authors back log on audio!
This is my first time listening or reading a Meg Xuemei book, and I'm wondering what took me so long!
Very interesting concept for this fantasy/PNR. Imagine the Bachelor meets Fae/Shifters/magic.
Narration by Victoria Mei who voiced thethe funny and snarky Barbie and her darker alter ego, as well as all the other characters.
I didn't listen to book one but will be looking out for the audio so I can get caught up and help me understand the set up. I have no doubt I'll be impatiently waiting for the next installment in audio because this book dropped a bomb and placed out with that cliffhanger!
I'll for sure be devouring this authors back log on audio!
April 3, 2024
amazing read
I can not wait for the last book my birthday is April 22 earth baby and my 26 years anniversary the whole plot of this book is so amazing it keep me wondering when she would. One out I feel like 3 books is not enough an can’t wait to read more I read a lot and would love to be able to proofread or make money doing it I can nNOT WAIT FOR MORE this is sick as in (awesome) read 10000000 ways to say awesome amazing author you are !!!reach out if you like I just am so excited her keeping the boy an the change I hope you don’t have to rush the next book I will be reading more of your books can’t wait to see what happens next !!!! Thanks for a better than ever read !!!
I can not wait for the last book my birthday is April 22 earth baby and my 26 years anniversary the whole plot of this book is so amazing it keep me wondering when she would. One out I feel like 3 books is not enough an can’t wait to read more I read a lot and would love to be able to proofread or make money doing it I can nNOT WAIT FOR MORE this is sick as in (awesome) read 10000000 ways to say awesome amazing author you are !!!reach out if you like I just am so excited her keeping the boy an the change I hope you don’t have to rush the next book I will be reading more of your books can’t wait to see what happens next !!!! Thanks for a better than ever read !!!
May 19, 2025
I devoured this series on a cross country trip. Devoured. I couldn’t get through it fast enough. I will admit that had I known it was not compete- I would have waited for the last book to be released. I’m devastated that I am left on a cliffy on book 5. 😩.
At any rate- since I inhaled five books at once. I’m writing one review. I started out and my first thought was “wtf is this??” This is a new to me author, and I jumped in having no idea what to expect. What I got was a heroine in situations and with dialogue that was silly, sometimes stupid, often ridiculous, and yet kept me reading to see wtf was going to happen next. And I’m so glad I kept going. The journey was definitely ridiculous, but absolutely worth it. I am so glad this was my first exposure to this author. And I would highly recommend the audiobook. ::chefs kiss
At any rate- since I inhaled five books at once. I’m writing one review. I started out and my first thought was “wtf is this??” This is a new to me author, and I jumped in having no idea what to expect. What I got was a heroine in situations and with dialogue that was silly, sometimes stupid, often ridiculous, and yet kept me reading to see wtf was going to happen next. And I’m so glad I kept going. The journey was definitely ridiculous, but absolutely worth it. I am so glad this was my first exposure to this author. And I would highly recommend the audiobook. ::chefs kiss
April 2, 2024
OMG
This book picks right up from where the first one ended. Spoiler alert, stop until book 3 is released or you'll be in the same boat I'm in. I didn't realize that thks wasn't a complete series. Now I'm like NOOOO, it left me on a cliff hanger. Poor Sy , where did she go, and what is going to happen to Barbie? Don't get me wrong the booms are awesome and on,e I started reading the series I had issues with putting it down. But, I really hate starting a series and having to wait a month or 6 for the climax. So in other words save this series and read it, but the last book doesn't come out till April 28.
This book picks right up from where the first one ended. Spoiler alert, stop until book 3 is released or you'll be in the same boat I'm in. I didn't realize that thks wasn't a complete series. Now I'm like NOOOO, it left me on a cliff hanger. Poor Sy , where did she go, and what is going to happen to Barbie? Don't get me wrong the booms are awesome and on,e I started reading the series I had issues with putting it down. But, I really hate starting a series and having to wait a month or 6 for the climax. So in other words save this series and read it, but the last book doesn't come out till April 28.
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