She's desperate to be loved. He doesn't have a heart.
Arlet has spent her life weaving beauty from nothing, but what she wants most—the one thing she has never been able to create—is her own family. As the newest human appointed to the Enduar Court, she thinks she’s closer than ever. She knows troll magic is unique and runs deep… perhaps deep enough to grant her the one thing her infertility has taken away.
However, tensions with the elves continue to rise, and they provide a clear end to their brewing war. A human bride. Prized for their ability to bear children of any race, a human promises a solution for the Elf King's insecure bloodline, and he erroneously sets his sights on Arlet. When she refuses, he marks her with a curse, ensuring her fate is tied to his. As the troll king's personal advisor, Lord Vann wants little to do with humans, even though they have integrated with his people. He mourns the woman he lost long ago, and has no patience for a beautiful but desperate human with dangerous magic poisoning her veins. But when the Elf King tries to collect his future bride, Vann will have to choose: stay shackled to the ghosts of his past or fight for a future that he shouldn't want and doesn't deserve. Love is a curse, and monsters don’t get happy endings. Or do they? A Cursed Bite is an enemies-to-lovers slow-burn romantasy that is the first in what will be a duet, with an attached standalone. It's perfect for fans of Ruby Dixon, Laura Thalassa, and Rebecca Yarros.
Daniela A. Mera was born into a royal Fae family in Scotland. She was a free spirit who loved traveling and cloud watching while laying velvet-soft grass. When she came of age, her mother forced her to travel to Las Vegas in order to kill a dragon and conquer a neighboring kingdom.
The dragon turned out to be a man, whom she fell wildly in love with. The couple ran away to the gentle hills of Mexico where Daniela ate lots of tacos and fruits the size of her head.
Something along those lines, anyway.
She writes whimsical tales full of lore all around the world, full of emotionally available men and women who run the world. She can be found listening to sappy romance ballads while writing scenes meant to emotionally damage her readers.
When not writing, Daniela can be found doing yoga and playing video games. Join her newsletter for freebies at: www.danielaamera.com
THIS👏🏼WAS👏🏼SO👏🏼FUN👏🏼 Did I ever think I’d be into sexy trolls? Nope. Am I now? YUP!🧌🥵
I absolutely loved the whole world in this book. It was giving whimsical/magical vibes🍄🪴✨ There were so many different animals & magical creatures. We got elves, dragons, trolls, Gods, witches, and humans too of course. (Just to name a few) I loved the epic adventure Arlet & Vann were on together and all the twists and turns that came with it. I had such a soft spot in my heart for Arlet & everything she’s been through. She’s such a resilient character that you can look up to. Vann was the perfect grumpy troll who has that hidden soft spot just for her. & he is so protective🫣🤭 we LOVE. Oh, and we got a slow slowwwwww burn in this one! Overall, I had such a fun time with this one & look forward to reading the next book with that ending!!!! So excited.
-Grumpy x Sunshine -Troll x Human -Monster Romance -Epic Adventure -Hurt/Comfort
What an enticing starter! I quite enjoyed this story and the world building was amazing. I hadn’t read anything from this author previously so I’m going to have to look them up! The FMC and MMC had fun banter and decent chemistry. It didn’t feel forced and was very well written. What a fun (yet frustrating) read! When can I get book two?!
This book destroyed me in the best possible way! The romance was sweet and soft, and they made each other better in the best way. Here's some of my favorite quotes:
"Love is a strange thing. It can shape us, even when it's gone."
"For better or worse, I am here for you."
"We made a language without words---crafted an instinctual love."
"Her words exist for someone else. To give. To be a part of another's story. Didn't she realize she deserves her own?"
"In his eyes, it as if the entire world hinges around her."
"In a world that's often been cruel to me, he's a rare thing---someone who's both the storm and the calm."
This one was a wild ride with a lot of things going on! Perfect for fans of drama, suspense, enemies to lovers, and slow burn! I'm excited for the second book!
A big thank you to the author who let me read an ARC copy of this book.
Ummm. Did I think I’d be into sexy trolls? No. But am I? Absofuckinglutely 👀
Love that Arlet wasn’t the typical “soft” FMC. As for Vann, I will gobble up a protective broody warrior MMC EVERYTIME.
Already have the initial series downloaded ready to read because I need more of this world. You do not have to read the first Enduvar series to understand this world, it was very easy to pick up on.
My love for Arlet runs deeper than my hate for Vann - I really hope he'll do SO much better in the next book otherwise I'm going to marry Arlet myself! Watch me, you heartless prick!
I loved both of them in the former books and couldn't wait for their own but this damn guy is far too conservative for my taste. Yes, he's kinda hot in his longing but he doesn't like the humans?! + he doesn't like the changes when it comes to traditions - for example the hairstyles of unmated women - it's just hair, boy. Get over it.
And lies, well yes - he's a red flag and Arlet deserves the greenest flag ever.
When he doesn’t have a heart but it’s ok because he has pretty hair and a nice ass 😍
This was such a delightful slow burn! There is nothing I love more in a book than a man who spends his time yearning and we basically get 300 pages of a Mr Darcy hand flex.
🩵 Reading about Arlet overcoming her trauma was heartbreaking and inspiring and so beautifully written. 🩵 When he unintentionally finds your romance books so knows what you’re into 👀 🩵 “For what feels like eternity, I have endured as my eyes seek you out.” 😭😭😭 🩵 This ended on a cliffhanger and I basically died so excuse me while I pace around aimlessly for the next year.
This book was gifted to me by Haus of Fables and Daniela A. Mera but all thoughts are my own.
Once I got into this book, I ended up enjoying it quite a bit! I know it’s stated that it’s not necessary to have read the prior series (same world, overlapping characters, different couple/plot) but I think I would’ve taken to the world building much smoother had I read the other Enduar series! That was my only qualm starting this book!! There was a lot of names that didn’t stick in my brain until much later in the book lol!
Besides that I LOVED VANN AND ARLET SO MUCH!! Vann, you hot ass, grumpy, blue, and broody man, I was down bad. I loved the tension and banter between vann and arlet immensely! I cannot wait for book two because BABY THAT CLIFFY WHATTTTT?!?!
Forced proximity, grumpy/sunshine, banter, curses, found family, slow burn, one bed
I was provided an ARC copy for free. I chose to sign up to read and review. This review is done voluntarily and is of my own words.
A Cursed Bite is set up in a world created by the author in a previous series. I have not read anything prior to this one. The beginning chapter did feel like jumping in at the middle to info dump, but the main story stood on its own. Humans have been saved from giants, and are being integrated into other fantastical creatures' societies. Such as elves and trolls.
Arlet is such a human. She ends up with the trolls, but the elves want her.
I found the main character, Arlet, to be very raw. She had moments that showed her in a vulnerable light that made her feel real. With my own experiences and how she was written, she was a character that popped off the page for me. I almost teared up on her behalf, several times even though I knew she was fictional. I felt like the author put a lot of her soul into her development of Arlet. She is the type that has buried trauma that she hates facing because it is so painful. She takes that hurt, and turns it into productivity. If she can do the work to help spare anyone else from strife, she happily takes that burden because maybe then it will make her feel better about her own.
The main male character, Vann, wasn't as impactful to me personally, but he was well done. Cold and untouchable, as his story is needed. He provided the balance to Arlet's reality. When she wasn't hiding behind her facade of happy, fulfillment. I could see the possibility of hurt coming if he dropped his stoic demeanor because of his own secrets. His tendency to hide his feelings below just like her, deep in a hole in his chest.
Their story is a slow burn. Set up for the magical world the author created to contain her characters, then a slow build to help her creatures fit and make sense of their situation and each other. The adventure takes a while to set in. When it does, it is a whirlwind of disaster and reaction, while still allowing the main characters time to process before the plot moved too far forward. It lended well to the evolution of the characters. From trauma and past hurt, to championing for themselves.
I really loved Arlet, felt for Vann. I was happy to experience their journey of devious elves, vicious curses, and plotting politics. The desperation of Arlet as she is forced to face many challenges she never asked for and how she uses them to conquer her past. How it helps melt the cold heart of an icy warrior. How it all culminates toward the end, leaving Arlet with a tough decision that didn't go where I personally wanted, but did make Vann so much more...well, human.
Totally loved this one, and would recommend to anyone looking for a character driven fantasy story.
TW/CW: this review talks about infertility/miscarriage
Beyond anything, Arlet craves to find a mate and have children but after a devastating miscarriage she finds herself unable to bear children. She thought maybe one of the trolls would end up being her true mate and their magic could heal her womb but after a humiliating breakup, hope is no longer her friend. So she throws herself into working with children, weaving, and generally helping anyone she can. She puts others and their happiness before her own but she definitely uses that as a distraction tool to keep the loneliness at bay.
But no matter how lonely she feels, there’s always a certain grumpy, pain in the ass, advisor to the troll king that is around every corner. Vann refuses to admit he wants Arlet. He had love once and tragically lost it. Now he doesn’t have a heart left to give to someone else. Arlet & Vann can’t seem to be in a room for long without arguing but there has been and continues to be these small gentle moments between the two. Vann definitely is brash and sharp with his words but the way he acts when Arlet is in danger or insulted screams “I will kill anyone who harms you”. So when Arlet is unfortunately cursed with something violent and brutal, Vann is determined to find a way to break this curse.
A Cursed Bite was an interesting and fun read. I was worried I wouldn’t understand the world or what was going on considering this isn’t the first book set in this world but turns out I had nothing to worry about. The author did a great job easing the reader in, detailing the world beautifully, and explaining the customs of the trolls without it feeling heavy or overwhelming. I loved the curse aspect and the journey needed to see if it can be broken. It kept the stakes high and it allowed these two characters to be alone for days and days so we really got to see their relationship grow and a genuine connection form. I definitely wanna continue and read the last part of this duet and even go back one day and read the previous books set in this world.
4⭐️ 3🔥
What to expect: Fantasy/monster romance MF Troll MMC Human FMC Cursed to kill Slow burn Grumpy/sunshine He ties her up for both safety and pleasure Hurt/comfort Only one bed He draws her Hidden dragon city
TW/CW: Sexual harassment, Mentions of slavery, Misogyny, Infertility, Mentions of a miscarriage, Death, Blood/gore, Self harm, Lite bondage play, Emotional abuse, Mentions of spousal abuse/neglect, Strong language
I received an ARC of this book, much to my delight! I always jump at the opportunity to return to the world of the Enduvida. This time around, we get to explore one of the more interesting couple pairings: Arlet and Vann.
I can confidently say that Arlet and Vann’s love story has become one of my favorites; they’re both interesting characters with a lot of depth, emotional baggage, and personal traumas. Plus, the tension and banter were top-tier. Their backstories and traumas were very similar, so it was interesting to see how they dealt with them in such different ways. Vann’s coldness and distance were given context, and Arlet’s self-sacrificing tendencies were given a heartbreaking background. I love both of them so much, but I also wanted to shake them for their stubbornness, lack of communication, and self-deprecating habits.
I deducted a star from my overall rating because this book leaned a little too heavily into the miscommunication trope (or rather, the total lack of communication) for my liking. Also, there were a lot of errors in this book, which I know will likely be corrected before final publication, but it was pretty distracting at times while I was reading. And that ending?!?! It was somewhat predictable, but with a twist that still caught me by surprise (although it really shouldn’t have). My jaw was agape, and my heart was broken. Now I’m sitting in contemplative silence, burdened with the knowledge that I have to wait for the next installment.
📖Tropes: 👪Found Family ☀️Grumpy x Sunshine 🔥Slow Burn 💞Forced Proximity 🪄Cursed FMC 🛏️One Bed
Overall, this was a fantastic addition to the Enduar universe. It managed to stay true to the existing lore without feeling repetitive. It added new characters, places, and cultures that will be exciting to explore in the next book. I highly recommend reading this book, but encourage everyone to start with the ‘Entangled with the Enduar’ series for the best experience!
I voluntarily read an Advance Reader Copy of this book and am providing my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own, and my rating reflects my genuine experience with the book.
Thank you to the author for the gifted ARC and the chance to read and share my own thoughts!!!
Dang, Daniella, dang!!!! The beautiful journey that you take us on with Arlet and Vann is truly captivating. I need to go back and read the first book that was set in this world because I’m in love!!!
The imagery that was in this book really built the world out beautifully. From the lovely dark and glowing caves of Enduvida and the breathtaking forests and expansive world outside of the caves, it was quite an experience to get lost in it all.
Then throw in some trolls, elves, ogres, giants, witches, dragons, and other magical creatures, and you have yourself a dang good book. 😍
🕯️Themes:
💜Grumpy x Sunshine 💙Enemies-to-Lovers 💜Bondage 💙Magic, gods, and Matehood 💜Teacher FMC (Low-key adrenaline junkey) 💙Warrior MMC(w/ a fear of heights) 💜Grief, Loss, & Infertility 💙Forced Proximity 💜Dragons 💙Curses 💜Slow-Burn Romance 💙Healing past trauma
Check trigger warnings before diving in and take care of yourselves while reading. The MMC and FMC have gone through some hard sh*t. To be honest, they probs need therapy. 🤣 For awareness, there is a heavy miscommunication theme mid-way through to the end. (Worth it!!!)
Thank you to Haus of Fables for gifting me an ARC of A Cursed Bite! Although I haven’t read the other books in the Enduar series, I found it easy to follow this story without prior context. This enemies-to-lovers tale follows Arlet, a human longing for a family, who embarks on a quest to break a curse that makes her feel “not herself.” The dynamic between Arlet and Vann is sweet, but the miscommunication trope drove me crazy! Why can’t they just be honest with each other?! The pacing felt a bit slow at times, although that might be because this is only Book 1. I’m excited to see how Arlet and Vann’s story unfolds in the Sequel!
I had the privilege to read this as part of the ARC team of Daniela A Mera (Thank Haus of Fables for this gifted ARC). I really loved the world Daniela as created with the Enduares ! It as magic, love, great caractere development, adventures ! I can't wait for the next one ! I love Arlet and Vann !
Falling for a grumpy, broody and blunt speaking blue troll was not on my 2025 bingo card but here we are! And I’m not mad about it! 🫦 He doesn’t have a heart but if he did I’m sure it would be made of gold! 💛
The tension between him and our FMC Arlet was delicious! She’s a ray of sunshine that has a very traumatic past and an uncertain future! And with a curse upon her they are now on a quest to help her - initiate forced proximity! 🙌
And let’s acknowledge that cliffhanger ending!! 🤯 I’m still reeling and trying to pick my jaw up off the floor!
This is the first book in a new duet - featuring characters introduced in a previous series by the same author. I hadn’t read that before (and it’s not necessary to understand what’s going on) but I do want to now! I loved this couple and I’m excited to get a bit more of their background as well as connect a few more dots with the world building.
Thank you Haus Of Fables_PR for the e-ARC 4.5⭐️ 2.5🌶️
Absolutely marvelous! Read my very first ARC copy and so proud it was this 💜
Thanks to Hausoffables & Daniela 💜
I have been savouring this book all throughout not wanting it to end and I was right to do so as it was absolutely amazing 💜
This is Arlet & Vann's story, their characters are so relatable in so many ways. I've experienced a rollercoaster of emotions all throughout the book.
Well done to the author, Daniela, for creating such a beautiful world within her writing, and sharing the wonderful world of Enduvida and its characters!! Can't wait for book 2 of Bound to the Enduar to be released 💜💜
“Tavra sathen ri, fel avel'dras mivara.” 🩵
“You are the man who promised me he would be the warmth of the sun on a winter morning." 💜
“I ventured halfway around the world. I’ve faced every fear, even the ones that threatened to break me, and soon, it will be over. You have been there every step. Come down this path with me, too.”💜
“I will take care of you. Right now, you are mine to break. Mine to put back together.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 🌶️🌶️🌶️
What You’ll Find in this Book: - Monster Romance - Epic Fantasy Adventure - Enemies to Lovers - Grumpy x Sunshine - Pinky Promises - “You Look Nice Tied Up” - She’s Cursed To Kill Anyone Who Gets In Her Way…
My heart aches, this book was beautiful, heartbreaking, hopeful and everything in between. You can truly tell that Daniela pours her heart and soul into her books and this one was no exception. My heart bleeds for these characters that have been created with so much depth and personality, on a journey in a world that has been so carefully and immaculately crafted with detailing that practically leaps off the pages. If you’re looking for an epic fantasy adventure filled with a mysterious curse, an FMC that just wants to be loved and an MMC who doesn’t have a heart, in a story that will both hurt you and heal you then look no further (screams emotional trauma I know, but it is so worth it!).
I highly recommend reading the three books in the Entangled with the Enduar series before you embark on this journey as it gives you the context and allows to full understanding when it comes to the Easter eggs and past events. We begin our story with Arlet and how she is working herself to the bone trying to give back to the Enduar who saved her and so many other humans. However, what Arlet craves more than anything else is a mate so that she can have a family to call her own. With tensions arriving between the Enduar and the eleven court an ultimatum is presented in order to preserve the peace between the two races, an ultimatum that would see Arlet taking the elven kings hand in marriage. When she denies his request Arlet is marked with a curse that takes her away from who she is and puts everyone she loves in danger. Vann is still mourning the loss of the female he loved and doesn’t hide his despise for the humans around him. However, he can’t get a certain fire haired female out of his minds, and when the curse takes over Arlet they begin a journey together to put an end to the curse so that they can return home. As time passes they find it harder to fight the undeniable attraction between them and the complicated emotions they have due to their past, and whether this will be something they can overcome in time.
Vann and Arlet are phenomenal, their relationship as it develops through the story is such a joy to read. Their banter and grumpy x sunshine dynamic alongside a romance that is slow to burn further embellishes their story as they journey to remove the curse put on Arlet. Both of these characters have so much emotional depth and you realise how much when you start to learn more and more about their backstories and what they have been through, moulding who they are as individuals and what they want out of life and how they see opportunities. Arlet is gorgeous, she is willing to put everyone before herself and that selflessness is just part of who she is. I love her fire and snark, and the way that she isn’t afraid to say it how it is, while also having these moments of complete vulnerability. Vann presents a stone cold front on the outside but inside he carries so much guilt for feeling the way he does about Arlet and how that makes him feel like he is forgetting his past and his duties. He also has this side to him that is cheeky and possessive and it works to both balance against Arlets personality as well as pushing her buttons no end. The both fight their feelings for each other for different reasons, but is so beautiful to watch as their walls begin to crumble and they become that someone for each other
Daniela does the most incredible job of weaving together the bigger plot of said curse, the political implications and protecting those Arlet loves as well as her relationship with Vann, I was hooked from page to page. We get to travel so much within this book to so many new places that are all gorgeously described, and makes the book feel so full and alive with new information, characters, places and creatures. The plot was perfection and that cliffhanger was absolute torture in a sense that I can’t believe Daniela is going to leave us waiting to know what happens next.
Thank you so much to the author for sending me an e-ARC to read and view early.
Author: Daniela A. Mera Series: Bound to the Enduar Release date, April 11th, Publishe: Independently Produced
Thank you to Haus of Fables for gifting me an ARC of Daniela Mera's A Cursed Bite; I really enjoyed diving into the world Daniela has created.
A Cursed Bite is Book 1 of her new series, Bound to the Enduar, set in the same universe as Daniela's other series, Entangled with the Enduar. While it was said the new series could be read without the first one, I felt the experience would be better if I had gotten to know some of the characters and the plot when they first appeared. It took me some time to fully grasp the plot and the lore, but once I did, everything flowed easily.
I loved the relationship that was slowly building between Arlet and Vann. Its foundation is based on small things, little gestures, glances, thoughtfulness. It is based on forced proximity, lingering issues, and inner ghosts. Based on care, friendship, and something more. But... It is also based on omitted truths and a heap of miscommunication. Sometimes, I felt the urge to yell at my e-reader and just make them spill the truth. And what did that bring them in the end? Hurt, betrayal, and pain. Will they get past it? I certainly hope so.
The ending was gut-wrenching in so many ways, and I was holding back my tears. They went through so much, only for everything to unravel. But hope is not lost. I want to believe everything will turn out how it should be, and we will get our HEA.
Daniela has told a beautiful story of love emerging in the direst circumstances; she has tackled some difficult issues and life circumstances and has shown us multi-layered characters, flawed but still hopeful. I can't wait to see where the story takes us next.
**Thank you to Daniela A. Mera & Haus.of.Fables_pr for the e-ARC; all opinions are my own.**
4.5⭐️ 2.5🌶
I have been waiting for what feels like forever for Vann and Arlet's story ever since they were first introduced in To Steal A Bride 🥰 Getting to read their story was such an honor!
The pining? The romance? The denial of feelings in the form of slight bullying? Yesssssssssss 😤 We finally have Vann & Arlet's story, and it was WORTH IT. OMG. We have: •a curse •fated mates •frenemies-to-lovers •who hurt you?? •touch her and ☠️ •spicy spice •tails 👀 •beginning of a duology •betrayals 😭 •AND SO MUCH MORE!
Vann and Arlet's story was perfect. I couldn't imagine another start to their love story- and the ending? 😭 I can't wait for next book because I NEED THEM TO BE HAPPY!
Do you guys feel my excitement?? The world of the Enduar keeps on growing, and I, for one, cannot wait to see where Daniela takes us next! If you are intrigued by monster romance but need bigger world building/more of a romantasy feel, the Enduar series could be for you!
☆☆A note of caution for interested readers: this series deals with very heavy topics. It is important to read the trigger warnings beforehand for your own reading comfort and peace of mind. And while this CAN be read as a stand-alone, I highly recommend starting with To Steal A Bride for optimum world building and background.☆☆
Hear me out, it’s trolls but sexy - think Na’vi from Avatar.
Was I hesitant at first when I read trolls? A little, but they are called Enduar which helps haha and if you love Jake Scully (I sure do 🙂↕️🙂↕️🙂↕️) you’ll love this!
This was such a fun read, the world building and history was so unique and well developed without being too complex. The adventure our MCs go on discovering these other areas in search of a cure to a curse is also so interesting! The FMC is really sweet and caring but still holds her own, while the MMC is broody and rough around the edges. I loved their dynamic and how it evolved over the course of the story.
Also, he calls her Firelocks and she calls him Mi Cielo!!! Normally I’m not overly focused on nicknames or overly taken by any, but these have to be my FAVOURITE nicknames of all time 🥹❤️🔥. I quite literally couldn’t handle my giddiness each time they uttered them. For my fellow Latina girlies, the human dialect is Spanish, so this was also a treat to read!
Be prepared for a real slow burn with this one! But definitely worth the wait. I also didn’t see the twist coming which is always a treat! It does end on a cliffhanger though and omg is it a cliffhanger, so you better believe I’ll be racing to read the second once it is out!
Thanks so much to @haus.of.fables_pr and @authordaniela.a.mera for this e-arc! I loved it! 🫶🏻
I’ve never been able to get fully invested in a “monster romance” until now. Listen, I’m not a prude and I realize that as far as monsters go we’re working with pointed ears, blue skin and tales which is considered tame in the monster smut community but for me it’s a step.
First, I love romantasy that takes itself seriously but not so seriously the author gets lost in the sauce, and that’s exactly what Daniela executed with this. You never spend too long in the lore, just long enough to be able to feel transported to another world: one with glowing mushrooms and broody moody sad boys who got rid of their heart.
I devoured this in a week, and was never not excited to pick it up. Now that it’s over, I’m literally feral waiting for the second one.
Please everyone welcome me to the blue man group, because IPB didn’t get me but this one did.
This book grips you in its clutches from the start.
I felt it was easy enough to follow though I haven't read the previous series. But I do see the benefit of reading them for a bit more background and history.
Outside of a few grammatical errors and a few mistakes (ex: the man asked for the scroll, chuckled, and three paragraphs later asked for the scroll again, when the boy took off running, but what standing there for a conversation, and when the MCs were getting some air, but suddenly were in their room) it's still a well laid out story. With a bit of editing it will be incredible.
I will absolutely be looking for more of Vann and Arlets story. That end was brutal. And I will be reading the previous series as this world is enjoyable.
This is the first book from this author I have read. This is a monster romance. There are fae, trolls, giants, etc. The story follows Arlet who is human and was once a slave. She wants to be mated and have a family but struggled with infertility. She works with Vann who she feels connected to but he seems to hate her so she gives him sass right back. Little does she know he has no heart but longs for her. After she is cursed, and a Fae King wants her, they go to find a cure and become closer, but will his secret destroy her? There is a lot that happens and you get to see a lot of the world, the creatures and see the relationship between the two. It was a good story and I look forward to what happens next.
That ending?! A Cursed Bite is apart of the Enduar World and book 1 in the Bound to the Enduar duet by Daniela A. Mera. Thank you so much Daniela and Haus of Fables for my gifted ARC!
If you are a fan of Monster Fantasy Romance with Enemies to Lovers, Slow Burn, Fated Mates, Forced Proximity, Grumpy x Sunshine, and so much more this one is for you!
Arlet, a human living in a troll world, is desperate to have a family. She wants a love that has always been just out of reach and she is hopeful that if she finds her Mate, that the magic will cure her infertility.
Vann, the Cleaver and feared by most on the battlefield, he had found the love of his life so he gave away his heart because he wished to not love another.
Arlet and Vann can’t stand each other even when they are on the same side, there is something about her that gets under his skin. But when Arlet is marked with a curse from the Elf King who demands her in return to make him an heir, they go on a journey to remove the curse.
As they get closer they can’t deny there is something between them even if it isn’t a mate bond they can be friends right? My heart ached for Arlet throughout her journey and the pain she felt being rejected over and over and not being able to be the mother she so desperately wished she could be. Vann’s icy exterior begins to melt around Arlet but will he be able to move forward after half a century has passed since the lost his former love?
Just when we are so close to answers, Daniela masterfully pulls the rug out from under us and you are left clinging to the pages to know what is going to happen next.
I can’t wait to see what happens next with Arlet and Vann.
This was a great read that I powered through! Did I think I'd be into sexy blue trolls? Absolutely not. 😆 But here we are!
It was a fast paced story with a great romance plot. I thoroughly enjoyed the dynamics of the world and the characters.
We got humans, trolls, giants, elves - you name it! It's all here!
The characters were really well thought out and written and I loved the duel POV 👌 Vann is also what I LOVE to see in a MMC, the quieter broody type, who make dumb decisions but think they're doing the best thing by everyone 😅
After this I looked up some of the authors other books which are in this/or a similar world and I NEED ASAP haha 🫶
Ends on a bit of a WTF 😱 moment, so looking forward to book 2!
I think this story has good bones. It has tropes I love including grumpy/sunshine and enemies to lovers.
The writing is clunky. I feel that a large amount of the story is rehashing things we as readers have already learned which makes it feel repetitive and skippable. What I really loved was how the world was written. I could very easily picture the environment and locations. It's well described without feeling overexposed.
I do love the main characters and feel that there's alot of availability for growth and fun with the character arcs. Unfortunately this is not for me.
Thanks to netgalley for the ARC. I will always share my honest opinions.
I liked the world building and the characters. There was definitely the right amount of angst and tension but throwing in miscommunication (my least favourite trope) was frustrating, I understood both sides and reactions for sure but to have it lead to a cliffhanger like that? Well yeah I’m going to read the next book so I know what happens 😂
An easy, bingeable read with lovable characters. I’m becoming quite the fan of monster romances. I loved the slow burn romance and the chemistry between Arlet and Vann. I enjoyed the plot and the ending left me dying for the next book. This is a spin off of another series but can be read on its own.